First progress reports are out

We’ve passed the six-week mark of the school year, and sixth-grade parents received their first progress report for their students. I am sure many were pleased and a few dumbfounded, but help is on the way.

The Aeries Browser Interface (ABI) system is up and running, so parents will no longer have to dread opening that envelope from Thurston Middle School. This system has been in place at Laguna Beach High School for over a year and is currently being piloted by 90% of the middle school staff. It allows parents and students to check on assignments, tests and other classroom information. It has proven to be a valuable tool at the high school and will be at Thurston as well. If you are interested in finding out more about the system, you can go online at lagunabeachschools.org.

A group at Thurston will be collecting nonperishable food items for needy families during the week of Nov. 14 to 18. These will be put into boxes and distributed during Thanksgiving. Boxes have been placed in each classroom so that your student does not have to drag bulky cans around all day. Please send canned or boxed foods to help with this worthwhile project.

Finally, the PTA will be having our semiannual Book Fair from Dec. 7 to 14. Proceeds will go toward the purchase of much-needed items for the library. Students will have a chance to visit the Book Fair during their language arts classes. (Credit cards are welcome.) Please feel free to come up and browse the selections and perhaps give the gift that keeps on giving -- a good book!