News from Administration

September 21, 2023

Good afternoon, Ames Parents and Guardians,

It was wonderful to see so many of you at Back-to-School Night yesterday evening!  In an effort to continue to increase communication between school and home, district social workers from Ames, Berner and MHS will be hosting a series of Parent Power Hours via Google Meet during the school day.  These sessions are designed to provide support for parents, guardians and caretakers of adolescent children in grades 6-12. Each Power Hour will be topic-specific and have a specific meeting link to access the session.  Specific topics, dates, and times are outlined as follows:

2023-2024 Virtual Parent Support Groups

 We invite you to join and participate in some or all of these sessions.  If you should have further questions, then please feel free to reach out to us or Mrs. Kim Hession, school social worker, at (516) 308-5850 or khession@msd.k12.ny.us.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

September 18, 2023

Dear Ames Families,

As a reminder to parents and guardians, our “Back-to-School Night” will take place on Wednesday, September 20^th at 7 PM.  For specific information, please refer to the following flyer and memo:   

Back-to-School Night Flyer, September 2023

Back-to-School Night Memo for Parents 2023-2024

For our students, Picture Day for student portraits will be held on Wednesday, September 20^th (Day 2) and Thursday, September 21^st (Day 1).  All students are invited to have their freshman class portraits taken in the Small Gym during their Physical Education classes. A make-up session has been scheduled for Monday, October 23^rd outside the cafeteria during lunch periods.  Please note that students will be photographed against a green screen in order to offer a variety of background choices. For best results, it is recommended that students avoid wearing complicated patterns or shades of green. 

Lastly, our students did an excellent job last week practicing a series of emergency management drills, which included a bus evacuation, fire drill, lockdown drill and lockout drill.  We will continue to exercise a variety of these drills throughout the school year.

Thank you for your support and cooperation.  We look forward to seeing parents and guardians on Wednesday evening at the Ames Campus.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

September 13, 2023

Dear Ames Families,

Our “Back-to-School Night” will take place on Wednesday, September 20^th at 7 PM.  For specific information, please refer to the following flyer and memo:   

Back-to-School Night Flyer, September 2023

Back-to-School Night Memo for Parents 2023-2024

We look forward to seeing you next week.  If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

September 8, 2023

Dear Ames Families,

It’s been a short first week of the 2023-2024 school year, but it has been such a pleasure for all of us at Ames to connect with the incoming freshman class!  Students are doing an excellent job thus far working to acclimate to the Ames Campus.   

Today we held a “Welcome Back” Student Assembly followed by a modified bell schedule.  During the presentation, we discussed the following topics:

• The Importance of Ninth Grade, including increased expectations, rigor and responsibility
• A High School Transcript, including career and college planning 
• Student Support Services, including our Guidance Counselors, Social Worker and Psychologist
• Stepping Out of Our Comfort Zone, including joining sports, clubs, participating in activities and making new friendships
• Social and Emotional Learning
  • Mood Meter tool from RULER, including self-awareness of emotion, expression and regulation
  • Empathy Discussion and Video
• Student Code of Conduct, Behavior and Accountability, including disciplinary consequences
  • Dress Code
  • Dignity for All Students Act (DASA), including bullying/cyberbullying and harassment
  • Title IX, Sexual Harassment
  • Drugs, Weapons and Threats, including our partnership with the Nassau County Police Department
  • Electronic communication, including cell phones, Chromebooks and social media
  • Vaping and Paraphernalia resulting in 5 Day Out-of-School Suspension
• Safety and Emergency Management
  • Requirement to wear student ID, lanyard and emergency contact information on the back of the student ID
  • Mandatory Emergency Management Drills
  • Location of AED devices throughout the building 
• Attendance Policy and Procedures
• Extra-Help and Learn at Lunch opportunities
• Academic Probation and Ineligibility
• Bus Transportation, including arrival, dismissal and afternoon shuttle buses to Main Campus
• Student Government Information and Opportunities for the Class of 2027, including Homecoming information
• Building Communication, including Schoology, website, student email accounts and social media 

Students were presented with a lot of information, tools, and guidance to assist them with a solid start to ninth grade.  At the same time, we emphasized the importance of striving for progress, not perfection... getting better each day.  It is our hope that together we can make this an exceptional year!

In looking ahead at next week, we would like to share the following additional information with you:

• Commemoration of September 11th, a Day of Remembrance - A moment of silence will be held during homeroom.  Students and staff are invited to dress in patriotic colors of red, white and blue.  This symbolic gesture will honor those Americans who gave so much on September 11, 2001, and the days, months, and years that followed. Teachers in social studies classes will be recognizing 9/11 as part of their instruction. 
• Emergency Management Drills
  • Beginning Tuesday, September 12th we plan to exercise a series of mandatory emergency management drills that will include practicing a bus evacuation drill during morning arrival, fire drill, lockdown drill and lockout drill.  These initial drills are announced, and will include specific guidelines and procedures shared through our public address (PA) system in advance.
    • As a reminder, school lockout is a procedure used when there is an incident outside the school building.  During a lockout, each entrance will be locked, and no one will be permitted to enter or exit the building. A school lockdown is a procedure used when there is an immediate and imminent threat inside the school building. Once a lockdown is declared, building activities cease and students and staff are secured in locked rooms while being out of view as much as possible. No one will be permitted to enter or leave the building. In the event of either a lockout or lockdown, parents will not be able to sign-out children until the circumstances have been deemed safe. 
  • Please know that we continue to work in collaboration with our District Security and Nassau County Police Department in an effort to support the safety of all students and staff in our school community.

Thank you for your support and cooperation.  Please know that our door is open to you throughout the school year, and we look forward to continued collaboration.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

September 1, 2023

Dear Ames Students and Families,

It was wonderful meeting so many of our incoming 9th graders during the Student Orientation and Walkthrough this past Wednesday, August 30th. We began the orientation session in our cafetorium and introduced our building leadership team as well as faculty and staff who were present to support the orientation sessions.  During the presentation, we discussed the following topics with our students:

• Massapequa School District Mission Statement
• What to Expect on Tuesday, September 5th (Day 1)
  • Final Schedule, Lockers, Student IDs and Lanyards
• Bus Transportation, including arrival, dismissal and afternoon shuttle buses to Main Campus
• Bell Schedule, including 10th period for extra-help sessions and clubs
• Student Code of Conduct, Behavior and Accountability, including disciplinary consequences
  • Dress Code
  • Dignity for All Students Act (DASA), including bullying/cyberbullying and harassment
  • Title IX, Sexual Harassment
  • Drugs, Weapons and Threats, including our partnership with the Nassau County Police Department
  • Electronic communication, including cell phones, Chromebooks and social media
  • Vaping and Paraphernalia resulting in 5 Day Out-of-School Suspension
• Student Support Services, including our Guidance Counselors, Social Worker and Psychologist
• Building Communication, including Schoology, website, student email accounts and social media

As part of the presentation, students also had an opportunity to engage in a question and answer session with the Class of 2026 student government officers going into 10th grade this year.  The students were able to share some of their recommendations for a successful start to 9th grade as well as memorable experiences.  Some highlights included the importance of working hard, completing assignments and getting involved in activities, clubs and/or sports. We are genuinely grateful for their time, dedication and ongoing leadership.

Following the presentation, students were provided with a map and the bell schedule to support them as they walked their tentative schedules throughout the building.  As students did so, they connected with faculty and staff who were in attendance. 

We are looking forward to the new and exciting possibilities that come with the start of the school year.  Please feel free to reach out with any further questions.  We wish all of you a wonderful Labor Day weekend, and look forward to seeing students for the first day of classes on Tuesday, September 5th!  

Sincerely,

Mrs. Tania M. Willman, Principal 

Mrs. Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

August 29, 2023

Dear Ames Students and Families,

Welcome Class of 2027!   As a reminder, the Incoming Ninth Grade Student Orientation and Walk Through  is scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 30th.  The program will include a welcome and informational session in the Ames cafetorium followed by an opportunity to tour the building.  We look forward to meeting you. 

Sincerely,

Mrs. Tania M. Willman, Principal 

Mrs. Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

August 14, 2023

Dear Ames Students and Families,

Welcome to the incoming 9th grade Class of 2027!   We hope that this email finds you well and enjoying the days of summer.  As we prepare for the 2023-2024 school year, please mark your calendars for the Incoming Ninth Grade Student Orientation and Walk Through scheduled for Wednesday, August 30th.  The program will include a welcome and informational session in the Ames cafetorium followed by an opportunity to tour the building.  

Best wishes throughout the weeks of summer still ahead of us, and we look forward to seeing you at the end of August!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Tania M. Willman, Principal 

Mrs. Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

June 23, 2023

Dear Ames Students and Families,

As freshman year of high school comes to a close for the students in the Class of 2026,  we want to thank our families for the support that has been extended to us.  We are genuinely grateful to have worked in collaboration with you throughout the school year.

With regard to our 9th grade students, congratulations on all of your achievements!  We have enjoyed your time with us at Ames, and we are confident that a bright future lies ahead.  As you enter the next phase of your educational experience, you will take with you the memories you have made at the Ames Campus of Massapequa High School.   We wish you all the best next year at the main campus of Massapequa High School and in life.

If we may be of further assistance to you in the future, then please do not hesitate to reach out to us.  Regards to all of you for a safe, happy and healthy summer!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

June 5, 2023

Dear Ames Families,

This week includes our last day of classes on Friday, June 9th! Please read the information below regarding locker cleanout, final/Regents exams, as well as absence and cell phone policy reminders during the exam period.

Locker Cleanout

Locker cleanout will occur this week on Wednesday, June 7th (2nd Floor) and Thursday, June 8th (1st Floor). Students should bring all personal items home. All lockers must be emptied by the end of the school day on Friday, June 9th, and students will not have access to their lockers beyond Friday.  In addition, students are to retain their locks for use at MHS-Main Campus in the next academic school year.

Finals/Regents Exams

Please review the Final Exam/Regents schedule and the transportation schedule.  If you or your child has any further questions, please encourage them to visit the Guidance Office. 

Ames Final Exam Schedule - June 2023

Ames Final Exam Transportation Schedule -  June 2023 

• As a reminder, final exams and Regents Exams constitute 12% of a student’s grade in the course.  Students should fully prepare for these assessments to the greatest extent possible. There are still opportunities to attend Learn at Lunch this week as well as extra-help in the final days of school.
• Beginning on Monday, June 12, 2023 students will report to school only if they have a scheduled final or Regents examination.  
• Any illness-related absence on June 12 - June 21 must be verified with a note from a physician. Students who are illegally absent will receive a grade of zero.
• Students are prohibited from having possession of electronic devices including, but not limited to: a cell phone, iPod, MPS Player, iPad, camera, headphones, smartwatch, and AirPods while in a testing room and/or during a testing administration. Students who bring devices with them to a test must provide those devices to the testing proctor. 

Throughout the course of the school year, students have worked diligently to build a strong foundation for tenth grade and beyond. We encourage all students to continue doing as best as they can in preparation for finals and Regents examinations. 

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

June 5, 2023

Dear Ames Families,

Good morning!  As a reminder, the Ames Spring Music Concert is taking place at 8pm tonight, Monday, June 5th, 2023 in the Baldwin Auditorium at Massapequa High School (Main Campus). 

We respectfully request that those who attend the concert stay for the full duration of the performance. When people in the audience enter and leave, they disrupt the concert and others who are trying to enjoy their child’s performance. Our students have practiced since the beginning of the school year and look forward to showcasing their exemplary work. In this regard, they all deserve our full attention and respect. In addition, barring an unforeseen emergency, no performing student will be permitted to leave the concert early.  We appreciate your cooperation and your efforts to ensure a full audience for our students’ performances. 

On behalf of Mr. Gilbert, Mr. Perticone, and Ms. Tymochko-Dekajlo, we welcome our Ames families to enjoy a superb musical performance. For further information specific to each ensemble, please visit the teacher’s Schoology page. We look forward to seeing you there!

Sincerely,                                                                                                                                                

Tania M. Willman, Principal                 

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

Vincent Green, Director of Fine and Performing Arts

May 19, 2023

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians:

In looking ahead, please note that we have two wonderful opportunities to support our 9th grade students involved in the fine and performing arts.  On Monday, May 22nd, the Art Exhibit will be held in the Ames Library at 7pm.  In addition, the Spring Music Concert for students enrolled in Band, Chorus and Orchestra will be held on Monday, June 5th at MHS-Main Campus at 8pm.

We look forward to seeing you at these events and celebrating our students involved in the arts. Go Chiefs!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

May 15, 2023

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians:

The fourth marking period mid-quarter appraisal is next week on Thursday, May 25th, and then students will soon be sitting for final and/or Regents exams.  Our last day of classes is Friday, June 9th, but please note that some in-class finals will begin as early as Tuesday, May 30th.  The following schedules are available for your review:

Ames Final Exam Schedule - June 2023

Ames Final Exam Transportation Schedule -  June 2023 

Final Exam Study Tips 

After referring to the schedules noted above, please contact your child’s guidance counselor at (516) 308-5830 with any further questions or concerns.

As we approach the final exam session, students are encouraged to access the variety of additional supports at Ames.  For example, Regents Exam review sessions, Learn-at-Lunch and Extra-Help continue to be available regularly throughout each week. We wish our students the best of luck as they prepare for a strong finish to their ninth grade academic year. 

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

May 12, 2023

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians:

Please be advised that next week, on Thursday, May 18th and Friday, May 19th, all students will be receiving an overview of emergency care during their designated Physical Education class.  The presentation does not provide students with a certification; however, it is intended to inform them of helpful information as it pertains to CPR, AED, choking as well as stop the bleed. The program will be presented by staff from Covert Investigations, our district security organization.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

May 8, 2023

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians:

The fourth marking period has been bustling with activity.  Students are taking AP Exams, going on field trips, participating in clubs and athletics, and preparing diligently for the final exam session in June.  The mid-quarter on Thursday, May 25th is only a few weeks away.   

We are excited to share that ALS Ride for Life will be back at Ames again this year!  On Tuesday, May 9th at approximately 10:30am, we will step outside the building along the semicircle of the Baltimore Avenue entrance to greet, cheer and encourage all the riders and walkers.  As in years prior, our student government organization will be presenting a donation through fundraising efforts.

Also, this week on Thursday, May 11th, we will be holding a 9th grade student assembly program in the morning in which we will be reflecting on the year, highlighting mental health awareness month, sharing tips to support good study skills, in addition to reviewing the code of conduct and the transition to 10th grade at the main campus of Massapequa High School.  An adjusted bell schedule will be in place to support the time for assembly.

In looking ahead, please note that schools will be closed on Friday, May 26th and Monday, May 29th for Memorial Day.  

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

April 28, 2023

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians,

Next week we begin our series of Regents Review Sessions in the areas of Mathematics (Algebra I, Geometry) and Science (Living Environment/Biology, Earth Science).  The sessions are held after the instructional school day during 10th period. Please note that these review sessions are being offered in addition to other supports such as Extra-help and Learn at Lunch. The schedules for both Mathematics and Science are outlined in the following link:

Ames Campus Regents Review Sessions - 2023

Enjoy the upcoming weekend!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

April 25, 2023

Dear Ames Families,

We are reaching out to inform you we are continuing to exercise emergency management drills at the Ames Campus. Specifically this week, on Thursday, April 27th, we will be conducting a fire drill during the morning arrival to school. Staff will be present and available to direct students as needed. Students who are driven to school may continue the same dropoff routine that morning, and bus transportation will operate as usual.

Please also note that we remain working in collaboration with our District Security and Nassau County Police Department in an effort to support the safety of all students and staff in our school community. We thank you in advance for your support and cooperation. Please feel free to reach out with any further questions.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal
Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

April 25, 2023

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians:

Over the last couple of months, students, parents, and teachers have been working very hard in preparation of the upcoming AP exams. We would like to address a couple of important details surrounding the administration of the exams. Please see the schedule below for the specific testing details: 

On the day of each exam, it will be a regular school day at Ames. For attendance purposes, students will be coded “Excused” for the day, and they are not required to attend any of their regularly scheduled classes either before or after the exam.  However, students are required to report to school 30 minutes prior to their exam. If parents/guardians are unable to provide transportation to the building at that time, students are advised to utilize the regular morning school transportation, and they have the option to attend Study Hall until it's time for them to report to their exam room. Students who will be arriving at school at the normal time, will be allowed to go to lunch either before or after their exam. 

 Important Reminders on the Day of Testing

• Students are strongly encouraged to make sure that they get to bed early the night prior to the exam, and eat before arriving at school.
• Place all electronic devices,bags, and coats in locker before reporting to the testing room 
• Eating and drinking are prohibited in the testing room for students
• Electronic equipment (cell phone, smart phone, smart watch, laptop, tablet computer, wearable technology, etc) portable listening or recording devices (MP3 player, iPod, etc), cameras or other photographic equipment, devices that can access the internet, and any other electronic or communication devices are prohibited during testing or during breaks (Must remain in locker). According to AP College Board testing guidelines, any student observed with any of these devices during testing or breaks may be dismissed from the exam, the device will be confiscated, the student's score may be canceled, and no retest may be permitted.   

Please do not hesitate to contact Mrs. Kennedy, AP Exam Coordinator at Ames, with any questions or concerns. We wish you the best of luck on exam day. 

Sincerely, 

Tania M. Willman, Principal 

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal 

April 19, 2023

Dear Ames Families,

We hope that you were able to enjoy the spring recess and that you are feeling refreshed to move forward with the remainder of this school year.  Summer is not too far away, but there is still important work and preparation we must attend to.  As we forge ahead into the last months of the school year, we encourage our students to continue working diligently in the realm of academics and athletics, while also seizing the variety of offerings that are available to them at Ames, MHS-Main Campus and in our school community.

On Friday, April 21st, we look forward to welcoming Massapequa School District alumni at our annual Alumni Career Day.  The students will be following an adjusted bell schedule to support the panel discussions for the program that day.   Please view the following link to access the adjusted bell schedule:   Alumni Career Day Bell Schedule.  Students will be afforded a wonderful opportunity to learn about a variety of careers and experiences from former graduates.  As a follow up, we invite parents to discuss this event with their child to see what reflections and acquired insights the students may have from the program.

As a reminder, this Friday also marks the conclusion of the third marking period.  Should you have any questions regarding grades once they have been posted in PowerSchool Parent Portal, please contact the appropriate teacher. For more general questions, please contact your child’s guidance counselor.

We are proud of the continued efforts and achievements made by our students, and we thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation. 

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

March 24, 2023

Dear Ames Parents/Guardians,

Next week (3/27 - 3/30), school guidance counselors will visit Social Studies classes to give students an overview of Naviance, an online tool that helps students align their strengths and interests to postsecondary goals. Please click the following link to read more: Letter to Parents from Ames Campus Guidance Department

If you have any further questions, please refer them to your child’s guidance counselor: (516) 308-5830.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

March 10, 2023

Dear Ames Families,

Hopefully this email finds you well as we continue to move forward throughout the school year. As we have seen throughout the school year, students remain dedicated to and involved in a variety of engaging and exciting activities.  We continue to be proud of their efforts and achievements across all areas within and beyond the school day.

Earlier this week, on the morning of Tuesday, March 7th, students participated in a period 1 assembly program presented by the Long Island Counsel of Alcohol and Drug Dependence (L.I.C.A.D.D.). The speakers addressed the topic of addiction with a focus on vaping.  In addition to learning about the risks, students were engaged in discussion about healthy choices and constructive coping mechanisms.  Furthermore, students were reminded that if there are concerns about addiction, particularly vaping, our school social worker, school psychologist and/or guidance counselor are accessible for further interventions. 

Today, March 10th, also marks the mid-quarter for the third marking period.  Students are encouraged to reflect on their progress, create goals for a strong finish to the third quarter, and seek additional opportunities for support through extra-help as well as Learn-at-Lunch.  

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.  Enjoy the upcoming weekend!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

February 3, 2023

Dear Ames Families,

At this time, the midterms are behind us and the new semester began this past Monday, January 30th.  Hopefully you have been able to review the second quarter and midterm examination grades available on the Parent Portal. We encourage students to sit with their parents to review their progress thus far in the school year. It is the perfect time for students to reflect and create goals for the spring.

As a reminder, the grading breakdown for full year courses is as follows:

Quarter 1 20%

Quarter 2 20%

Midterm 8%

Quarter 3 20%

Quarter 4 20%

Final/Regents 12%

As a reminder, during the week of Monday, February 6th, students will be participating in the Signs of Suicide (SOS) workshop through each of their English Language Arts courses.  The program will be presented by our Pupil Personnel Services team, Mrs. Kim Hession (School Social Worker) and Dr. Vincent Pennisi (School Psychologist). Please feel free to reach out to the Pupil Personnel Office at (516) 308-5850 with any further questions about the SOS workshop.

Additionally, on Tuesday, February 7th at 7:30pm, all parents/guardians are invited to attend an evening presentation, It’s Real: Teens and Mental Health, delivered by a representative from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  The program will be held in the Ames Cafeteria, and is estimated to be approximately 1 hour in length.  Please select the following link for additional information about the program: For Parents, It’s Real: Teens and Mental Health.

At the conclusion of next week on Friday, February 10th, all students and staff are invited to wear purple in support of P.S. I Love You Day and mental health awareness.  For further information about the mission and goals of the organization, please view the following link:  http://psiloveyouday.net/. 

Please note that the deadline for registration and payment of all AP Exams is Friday, February 24, 2023.  Click for detailed instructions on how to register and pay for the upcoming exams. This only applies to students who are taking Human Geography and/or Computer Science Principles. It’s important to follow all steps to make sure the process has been finished completely and accurately. If you should have any specific questions regarding this process, please email Mrs. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal, at dkennedy@msd.k12.ny.us.

In looking further ahead, please note that school will be closed from Monday, February 20th through Friday, February 24th for mid-winter recess.  Furthermore, on the morning of Tuesday, March 7th, students will be participating in a period 1 assembly program presented by the Long Island Counsel of Alcohol and Drug Dependence (L.I.C.A.D.D.), which addresses the topic of addiction with a focus on vaping.

We wish our students and their families a wonderful second semester! Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

January 23, 2023

Dear Ames Families,

We are reaching out to inform you of our upcoming initiatives regarding suicide prevention and awareness that involve teacher workshops, push-in awareness sessions for students and an evening presentation for parents/guardians:  

• Beginning February 1^st, our teachers will engage in a Suicide Safety for Teachers workshop, which was created by the Suicide Prevention Center of New York. 
• During the week of Monday, February 6^th, students will be participating in the Signs of Suicide (SOS) workshop through each of their English Language Arts courses.  The program will be presented by our Pupil Personnel Services team, Mrs. Kim Hession (School Social Worker) and Dr. Vincent Pennisi (School Psychologist). 
• On Tuesday, February 7^th at 7:30pm, all parents/guardians are invited to attend an evening presentation, It’s Real: Teens and Mental Health, delivered by a representative from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  The program will be held in the Ames Cafeteria and is estimated to be approximately 1 hour in length.  

In addition, on Friday, February 10^th, all students and staff are invited to wear purple in support of P.S. I Love You Day and mental health awareness.  For further information about the mission and goals of the organization, please view the following link:  http://psiloveyouday.net/ 

We appreciate your ongoing support and cooperation.  Please feel free to reach out to the Pupil Personnel Office at (516) 308-5850 with any further questions you may have.

Sincerely, 

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

Amanda Lenoci, Supervisor of Special Education

January 11, 2023

Dear Ames Families,

We hope that this email finds you well as we continue to move forward towards the end of the first semester, which concludes on Friday, January 27th.  Next week, schools are closed on Monday, January 16th for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.  In addition, please review the following reminders pertaining to midterm examinations.

• In-Class Midterms:  In-class midterms are scheduled for Tuesday, January 17th through Monday, January 23rd.  These exams occur in-class during regular school days. 

• Midterms:  Regular full-length midterm examinations are scheduled for Tuesday, January 24th - Friday, January 27th. Students will report to school for their scheduled exams only.

• Students are not permitted access to a cell phone during any testing session. Students are encouraged to leave phones at home if they are not necessary; otherwise, all electronic devices must be submitted to the proctor or school official.

• In the event of school closure due to inclement weather, we will continue to follow the schedule as planned. 

• Students are responsible for bringing in pens, pencils, and calculators for their exams.

• Select the following links for access to the:

• Midterm Examination Schedule
• Midterm Transportation Schedule

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation, and enjoy the upcoming long weekend.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

January 4, 2023

Dear Ames Families,

Happy New Year!  We hope that you had a restful break, and that you were able to enjoy time with family and friends throughout the holidays.  Please note the following with regard to the Ames Winter Music Concert taking place at 8pm on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 in the Baldwin Auditorium at Massapequa High School (Main Campus): 

We respectfully request that those who attend the concert stay for the full duration of the performance. When people in the audience enter and leave, they disrupt the concert and others who are trying to enjoy their child’s performance. Our students have practiced since the beginning of the school year and look forward to showcasing their exemplary work. In this regard, they all deserve our full attention and respect. In addition, barring an unforeseen emergency, no performing student will be permitted to leave the concert early. We appreciate your cooperation and your efforts to ensure a full audience for our students’ performances. 

On behalf of Mr. Gilbert, Mr. Perticone, and Ms. Tymochko-Dekajlo, we welcome our Ames families to enjoy a superb musical performance. For further information specific to each ensemble, please visit the teacher’s Schoology site. We look forward to seeing you there!

Sincerely

Tania M. Willman, Principal                 

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

Vincent Green, Director of Fine and Performing Arts 

December 23, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

As a reminder, school will be closed from Monday, December 26th through Monday, January 2nd.  School will resume on Tuesday, January 3, 2023.

We would like to thank our wonderful students, our extremely supportive parents, and our exceptional faculty and staff for continuing to make Ames a very special place.  We wish you a restful break, a joyous holiday season as well as a healthy and happy new year!  

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

December 7, 2022

Dear Ames Parents/Guardians,

As you are aware, the Nassau County Police Department presented a program during this morning’s student assembly regarding awareness and the dangers of fentanyl.  As a follow up to the student assembly program, we invite and encourage you to watch the following video with your child:

Dead on Arrival (Fentanyl Documentary).  

The video is approximately 20 minutes in length. Please note that this video was not included in today’s presentation, but students were informed that this video will serve as an opportunity to follow up with you as their parents/guardians to further the important dialogue about today’s program. 

Again, our goal is the education of our students regarding harmful behaviors, and the prevention of such behavior in concert with the guidance and support of our parents.  Please do not hesitate to reach out to us or any member of the Ames staff should you have any questions or require any further support in this regard.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

December 6, 2022

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians,

We are reaching out again, to remind you of the dangers of vaping, particularly in light of a recent rise in vaping related incidents. As you know, a variety of health and safety risks are associated with vaping. When the liquid vapor is inhaled from the device, the body may be exposed to high levels of nicotine, chemicals and in some cases, THC, an active ingredient in marijuana. The District has, and will continue to share information and guidance with our students regarding the dangers of vaping.

As a reminder, the District has for several years now, imposed serious consequences regarding vaping in or on school grounds. It is important to note that students found to be vaping and/or in possession of vape devices and/or paraphernalia on school grounds are in violation of the Massapequa School District’s Code of Conduct, and consequences are imposed that result in five days of out-of-school suspension. Our goal is the education of our students regarding harmful behaviors, and the prevention of such behavior in concert with the guidance and support of our parents. 

Should you have concerns about addiction, particularly vaping, please contact the school social worker, school psychologist and/or guidance counselor for further interventions.  For your reference, you are also encouraged to access the following resources:

1. Newport Academy: https://www.newportacademy.com/resources/substance-abuse/teen-vaping-health-risks/ 
2. Massapequa Takes Action Coalition: https://www.mtacoalition.com/resources/vaping-and-marijuana-its-not-ok  
3. LICADD: https://licadd.org/ 

Again, our hope is to continue to work in partnership with you in an effort to maintain a safe learning environment that supports the health and wellness of our school community. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us or any member of the Ames staff should you have any questions or require any further support in this regard.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

November 30, 2022

Dear Ames Parents/Guardians and Students,

We hope that our Ames families were able to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday.  In looking ahead at next week, please note the following important information:

• On the morning of Wednesday, December 7^th (Day 1), we will be holding an assembly program for students about the dangers of fentanyl presented by the Nassau County Police Department (NCPD).  
• On the morning of Thursday, December 8^th (Day 2) at approximately 7:35am, there will be a Shelter-Relocation Drill. Specifically, all Ames students and staff will be temporarily relocated to Lockhart Elementary School until the drill has concluded. Once attendance is taken at Lockhart, students will promptly return to Ames and proceed with their regular school day. 

We continue to be grateful for your ongoing support.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

Monday, November 21, 2022

Dear Ames Parent/Guardians,

We are officially into the second marking period, and Thanksgiving is this week!  Students have been putting forth an outstanding effort in the areas of academics, athletics and clubs/activities at school.  As of this week, students have already received their first marking period grades.  At the end of the  quarter, teachers can also provide comments on the Parent Portal about students' performance and/or areas of concern. After reviewing these grades and comments, students and parents are encouraged to speak directly with the appropriate classroom teacher and/or guidance counselor with any questions.

On Wednesday, November 23^rd, students will be dismissed from 9^th period class at approximately 2:03 PM to accommodate a 2:10 PM Rapid Dismissal Drill. No after-school clubs or extra-help will be in session, and there is no 3:10 PM late bus.  Sports schedules will remain in place at the discretion of the athletic coaches so shuttle buses will be available to transport athletes to MHS-Main Campus. School will then be closed on Thursday, November 24^th and Friday, November 25^th for the Thanksgiving holiday.

As a reminder, the following link is available to view information regarding the Class of 2026 clothing sale, which concludes on Friday, November 25^th:  Class of 2026 Spirit Wear. 

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.  We wish you and your family the best as you prepare for the holiday season.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

Thursday, November 10, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

As a reminder, school is closed tomorrow, Friday, November 11th,  in observance of Veteran’s Day.  It was wonderful to see students and staff members honor our veterans today by wearing patriotic colors of red, white and blue.

In looking ahead to next week, we will continue to support social and emotional learning opportunities and experiences for students.  Together with the teachers of science courses, we are excited to share that our Guidance, PPS, and Administrative teams will be working with students in the classrooms on Thursday, November 17th, in an effort to explore the science behind an Attitude of Gratitude.  If you have any questions regarding the lesson program, then please contact your child’s guidance counselor at (516) 308-5830.

Although today marks the official end of the first marking period of the academic year, please note that teachers will continue to assess student work and make updates to the grades in the PowerSchool portal over the next several days.  Final grades for the first marking period will be posted by Friday, November 18th.

Thank you for your continued support, and enjoy the weekend!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

Friday, October 28, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

Halloween is on Monday, October 31st, and students may wear costumes to school. However, please be mindful of the following guidelines:

• Students may choose to dress “in costume” if the costume is suitable and appropriate in an educational atmosphere as determined by the staff. Costumes that represent violence or are distasteful/disrespectful are not welcome or acceptable.
• Students are not allowed to carry props. Props include sticks, brooms, weapons, canes, or any item that may be considered by staff to be inappropriate, dangerous, or cumbersome.
• Halloween costume masks/face paint/make-up (that cover the entire face) are not permitted; the identity of any student may not be disguised.
• October 31st is a regular instructional day and students are expected to be able to perform all of their assigned tasks while in costume.
• Any students whose costume is disrupting the educational process or deemed inappropriate by staff will be asked to remove the costume.
• If you have any questions regarding costumes, please feel free to call the Office of the Executive Assistant Principal at 308-5885.

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation. We look forward to a strong finish to the month of October!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal
Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

Monday, October 17, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

Good morning! We are reaching out to inform you that throughout the week of October 24th, a presenter from the Long Island Coalition Against Bullying (L.I.C.A.B.) will be pushing into English Language Arts classes to have discussions with students about cyberbullying, social media habits and the lasting impacts of a digital footprint.  You can view additional information on their website by selecting the following link:  https://www.licab.org/  

Please note that the students are invited to complete an anonymous survey following the program presentation.  The survey is designed for students to provide feedback on the presentation.  The decision to participate is voluntary, and we will not be tracking how each student responds to the questions on the survey.  If you prefer that your child not participate in the survey, then please inform our office, in writing, by Friday, October 21st.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

Thursday, October 13, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

Thank you to all who were able to support last week’s Spirit Week, which culminated with the Homecoming parade and football game on Saturday.  It was wonderful seeing the Massapequa school community come together.

As a reminder, all 9th grade parents and guardians have been invited to attend the “Successful Start to High School” Workshop presented by the Guidance Department at Ames tonight, Thursday, October 13^th, at 7pm.  The flyer and registration links are below:

• Flyer:  Welcome to High School Workshop for Parents
• Registration Form: Google Form Registration

Next week, on Wednesday, October 19^th, Massapequa SEPTA invites us to join in celebrating National Unity Day.  You are encouraged to support choosing kindness, acceptance and inclusion by wearing orange.  Please view the following flyer:  National Unity Day

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

Friday, October 7, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

Students and staff throughout these past days had fun dressing up in a variety of themes to celebrate Spirit Week.

As a reminder, Spirit Week culminates tomorrow, Saturday, October 8^th with the Homecoming parade and football game versus Oceanside High School. The parade will begin from the Village of Massapequa Park Municipal Parking Lot at 12:30pm and conclude at Massapequa High School. Kickoff time for the football game is at 2:00pm. 

In addition, all 9^th grade parents and guardians have been invited to attend the “Successful Start to High School” Workshop presented by the Guidance Department at Ames on Thursday, October 13^th at 7pm. If you have not yet had the opportunity, please view the flyer and registration link below:

• Please view the flyer:  Welcome to High School Workshop for Parents
• Registration Form: Google Form Registration

Lastly, on Monday, October 10^th, schools will be closed for Columbus Day. We hope to see many of you tomorrow and wish you a wonderful weekend ahead.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

September 30, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

As we bring a close to the month of September, we would like to share information with you about the upcoming weeks.  

In looking ahead, please note the following on the calendar:

• Shared Decision Making Committee - Monday, October 3rd at 2:30pm
• Spirit Week - Monday, October 3rd - Saturday, October 8th
  • Please view the flyer: Spirit Week  
  • Saturday - Homecoming Parade and Football Game at MHS-Main Campus
• Schools Closed for Yom Kippur - Wednesday, October 5th 
• Guidance “Successful Start to High School” Workshop for Parents - Thursday, October 13th at 7:00pm
  • Please view the flyer:  Welcome to High School Workshop for Parents
  • Registration Form: Google Form Registration
• Virtual Parent Power Hour Workshop, “Mental Health and Wellness for Teens” - Wednesday, October 19th
  • Please view the flyer for further information and meeting links:  Parent Power Hour Workshops

Enjoy the weekend!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

September 14, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

Our “Back-to-School Night” will take place on Wednesday, September 21st at 7 PM.  Please click on the links below to access the flyer and “Back-to-School Night” memo to parents.  

Back-to-School Night Flyer, September 2022

Back-to-School Night Memo for Parents 2022-2023

We look forward to seeing you next week.  If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

September 2, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

It’s been a short first week of the 2022-2023 school year, but it has been such a pleasure for all of us at Ames to connect with the incoming freshman class!  Students are doing an excellent job thus far working to acclimate to the Ames Campus.   

In looking ahead at next week, we would like to share the following additional information with you:

• Labor Day - Monday, September 5th - Schools Closed
• “Welcome Back” Student Assembly - Wednesday, September 7th during 1st period. A modified bell schedule will be in place. 
• Emergency Management Drills
  • Beginning Thursday, September 8th and on Friday, September 9th, we plan to exercise a series of mandatory emergency management drills that will include practicing a fire drill, lockout drill and lockdown drill.  A school lockout is a procedure used when there is an incident outside the school building.  During a lockout, each entrance will be locked, and no one will be permitted to enter or exit the building. A school lockdown is a procedure used when there is an immediate and imminent threat inside the school building. Once a lockdown is declared, building activities cease and students and staff are secured in locked rooms while being out of view as much as possible. No one will be permitted to enter or leave the building. In the event of either a lockout or lockdown, parents will not be able to sign-out children until the circumstances have been deemed safe. In addition, a bus evacuation drill will be conducted at the Ames Campus on Monday, September 12th upon the morning arrival. 
  • Please know that we continue to work in collaboration with our district security and Nassau County Police Department in an effort to support the safety of all students and staff in our school community.
• Commemoration of September 11th, a Day of Remembrance - A moment of silence will be held during homeroom.  Students and staff are invited to dress in patriotic colors of red, white and blue.  This symbolic gesture will honor those Americans who gave so much on September 11, 2001, and the days, months, and years that followed. 
• Picture Day
  • On Tuesday, September 13th (Day 2) and Wednesday, September 14th (Day 1), all students are invited to have their freshman class portraits taken in the Small Gym during their Physical Education classes. A make-up session has been scheduled for Tuesday, October 25th, outside the cafeteria during lunch periods.  Please note that students will be photographed against a green screen in order to offer a variety of background choices. For best results, it is recommended that students avoid wearing complicated patterns or shades of green. 

We look forward to an outstanding year ahead!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

August 22, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

Please view the welcome back letter for the 2022-2023 school year at Ames:

Ames Welcome Back Letter, 2022-2023

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

MHS - Ames Campus

August 1, 2022

To All Incoming Ninth Grade Students,

In a month from now, you will be entering the doors of the Ames Campus for your first official day as a high school student.  What an exciting time in your life to look forward to!  As we continue to prepare for the start of the 2022-2023 academic year, we are pleased to share that we have scheduled a student orientation program that includes a brief overview of what to anticipate on the first day of school, the 9th grade experience and a walk-through of the Ames Campus. 

Please view the following flyer:  Ames Student Orientation

On the date and times listed below, we will meet in the Ames cafeteria for a presentation, and then you will have an opportunity to tour the building where some of our faculty and staff will be available to assist you and answer additional questions you may have.

Monday, August 29, 2022

• 8am - 10am

• 1pm - 3pm

We are really looking forward to meeting you in person!  Please note that between now and the student orientation, you and your parents/guardians will also be receiving a formal mailing with additional important information about the upcoming school year.  In the interim, we wish you all the best in the remaining days of the summer.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Willman, Principal

Mrs. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

June 24, 2022

Dear Ames Students and Families,

As freshman year of high school comes to a close for the students in the Class of 2025,  we want to thank our families for the support that has been extended to us.  We are genuinely grateful to have worked in collaboration with you throughout the school year.

With regard to our 9th grade students, congratulations on all of your achievements!  We have enjoyed your time with us at Ames, and we are confident that a bright future lies ahead.  As you enter the next phase of your educational experience, you will take with you the memories you have made at the Ames Campus of Massapequa High School.   We wish you all the best next year at the main campus of Massapequa High School and in life.

If we may be of further assistance to you in the future, then please do not hesitate to reach out to us.  Regards to all of you for a safe, happy and healthy summer!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

June 3, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

Next week includes our last day of classes on Friday, June 10th! Please read the information below regarding locker cleanout, final/Regents exams, as well as absence and cell phone policy reminders during the exam period.

Locker Cleanout

Locker cleanout will occur next week on Wednesday, June 8th (2nd Floor) and Thursday, June 9th (1st Floor). Students should bring all personal items home. All lockers must be emptied by the end of the school day on Friday, June 10th, and students will not have access to their lockers beyond Friday.

Finals/Regents Exams

Please review the Final Exam/Regents schedule (click here: Ames Final Exam Schedule - June 2022) and the transportation schedule (click here: Ames Final Exam Transportation Schedule -  June 2022.  If you or your child has any further questions, please encourage them to visit the Guidance Office. 

• As a reminder, final exams and Regents Exams constitute 12% of a student’s grade in the course.  Students should fully prepare for these assessments to the greatest extent possible. There are still opportunities to attend Learn at Lunch next week as well as extra-help in the final days of school.
• Beginning on Monday, June 13, 2022 students will report to school only if they have a scheduled final or Regents examination.  
• Any illness-related absence on June 13 - June 22must be verified with a note from a physician. Students who are illegally absent will receive a grade of zero.
• Students are prohibited from having possession of electronic devices including, but not limited to: a cell phone, iPod, MPS Player, iPad, camera, headphones, smartwatch, and AirPods while in a testing room and/or during a testing administration. Students who bring devices with them to a test must provide those devices to the testing proctor. 

Throughout the course of the school year, students have worked diligently to build a strong foundation for tenth grade and beyond. We encourage all students to continue doing as best as they can in preparation for finals and Regents examinations. 

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

May 13, 2022

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians:

The fourth marking period mid-quarter appraisal is next week on Friday, May 20th, and then students will soon be sitting for final and/or Regents exams.  Our last day of classes is Friday, June 10th, but please note that some in-class finals will begin as early as May 31st.  The following schedules are available for your review:

Ames Final Exam Schedule - June 2022

Ames Final Exam Transportation Schedule -  June 2022 

After referring to the schedules noted above, please contact your child’s guidance counselor at (516) 308-5830 with any further questions or concerns.

As we approach the final exam session, students are encouraged to access the variety of additional support  at Ames.  For example, Regents Exam review sessions, Learn-at-Lunch and Extra-Help continue to be available regularly throughout each week. We wish our students the best of luck as they prepare for a strong finish to their ninth grade academic year. 

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

May 6, 2022

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians:

The fourth marking period has been bustling with activity.  Students are taking AP Exams, going on field trips, participating in clubs and athletics, and preparing diligently for the final exam session.  The mid-quarter on Friday, May 20th, is only two weeks away.   

We are excited to share that ALS Ride for Life will be back at Ames again this year!  On Tuesday, May 10^th at approximately 12:45pm, we will step outside the building along the semicircle of the Baltimore Avenue entrance to greet, cheer and encourage all the riders and walkers.  As in years prior, our student government organization will be presenting a donation through fundraising efforts.

In looking ahead, please note that Friday, May 27^th is a make-up day, and school will be in session.  However, school will be closed on Monday, May 30^th for Memorial Day.  

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.

Sincerely, 

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

April 26, 2022

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians:

We hope that you were able to enjoy the spring recess and that you are feeling refreshed to move forward with the remainder of this school year.  Summer is not too far away, but there is still important work and preparation we must attend to.  As we forge ahead into the last months of May and June, we encourage our students to continue working hard in the realm of academics and athletics, while also seizing the variety of offerings that are available to them at Ames, MHS-Main Campus and in our school community.

As a reminder, on Friday, April 29th we look forward to welcoming Massapequa School District alumni at our annual Alumni Career Day.  The students will be following an adjusted bell schedule to support the panel discussions for the program that day.   Please view the following link to access the adjusted bell schedule:   Alumni Career Day Bell Schedule.  Students will be afforded a wonderful opportunity to learn about a variety of careers and experiences from former graduates.  As a follow up, we invite parents to discuss this event with their child to see what reflections and acquired insights the students may have from the program.

In addition, next week we begin our series of Regents Review Sessions in the areas of Mathematics (Algebra I, Geometry) and Science (Living Environment/Biology, Earth Science).  The sessions are held after the instructional school day during 10th period. Please note that these review sessions are being offered in addition to other supports such as Extra-help and Learn at Lunch. The schedules for both mathematics and science are outlined in the following link: Ames Campus Regents Review Sessions - 2022

Finally, AP exam administration begins next week for some of our students. The Human Geography exam will take place on Thursday, May 5th, and the Computer Science Principles exam will take place on Monday, May 9th. Students taking these exams received a letter from their teacher discussing all of the important details surrounding the exam. Please do not hesitate to contact Mrs. Kennedy, the AP Exam Coordinator at Ames, with any questions or concerns.

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation as we continue to work in collaboration for a strong finish to the school year.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

April 14, 2022

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians:

Over the last couple of months, students, parents, and teachers have been working very hard in preparation of the upcoming AP exams. We would like to address a couple of important details surrounding the administration of the exams. Please see the schedule below for the specific testing details: 

On the day of each exam, it will be a regular school day at Ames. For attendance purposes, students will be coded “Excused” for the day, and they are not required to attend any of their regularly scheduled classes either before or after the exam.  However, students are required to report to school 30 minutes prior to their exam. If parents/guardians are unable to provide transportation to the building at that time, students are advised to utilize the regular morning school transportation, and they have the option to attend Study Hall until it's time for them to report to their exam room. Students who will be arriving at school at the normal time, will be allowed to go to lunch either before or after their exam. 

 Important Reminders on the Day of Testing

• Students are strongly encouraged to make sure that they get to bed early the night prior to the exam, and eat before arriving at school.
• Place all electronic devices, bags, and coats in locker before reporting to the testing room.
• Eating and drinking are prohibited in the testing room for students.
• Electronic equipment (cell phone, smart phone, smart watch, laptop, tablet computer, wearable technology, etc) portable listening or recording devices (MP3 player, iPod, etc), cameras or other photographic equipment, devices that can access the internet, and any other electronic or communication devices are prohibited during testing or during breaks (Must remain in locker). According to AP College Board testing guidelines, any student observed with any of these devices during testing or breaks may be dismissed from the exam, the device will be confiscated, the student's score may be canceled, and no retest may be permitted.   

Please do not hesitate to contact Mrs. Kennedy, AP Exam Coordinator at Ames, with any questions or concerns. We wish you the best of luck on exam day. 

Sincerely, 

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

April 14, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

Hopefully the cold weather is now behind us! We are a few weeks into spring, and today marks the end of the third academic quarter.  Students will be on recess from Friday, April 15th - Friday, April 22nd. The students have earned this time to relax, refresh, spend time with family, socialize, and/or travel. We are so proud of our students for their achievements in academics, athletics, music, art, and extracurricular activities. In looking ahead, we continue to have a series of exciting and meaningful opportunities for our students in the final months of the school year.

Please note the following dates/activities on the horizon:

Important Dates:

Monday, April 25th Return to school from spring break

Friday, April 29th Annual Alumni Career Day (adjusted bell schedule)

Friday, May 6 Music in the Parks Trip

Friday, May 20th Fourth Mid Quarter Appraisal

Monday, May 23rd Ames Art Exhibit & Shared Decision Committee Meeting 

Monday, May 30th Memorial Day (schools closed)

Monday, June 6th Ames Spring Music Concert

Friday, June 10th Last day of classes

On behalf of the Ames faculty, staff and administration, have a wonderful spring break!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

March 18, 2022

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians,

Hopefully this email finds you well as we continue to move forward throughout the school year.  Last Friday, March 11th was the mid-quarter for the third marking period.  We encourage students to sit with their parents to review their progress in each class, and to create goals for a strong finish to the third quarter.  

As a reminder, the next Principal’s Roundtable for parents/guardians has been scheduled for Wednesday, March 23rd at 6:30pm in the Ames Library.   Please complete the following form if you plan on attending: Principal Roundtable Registration

With spring being just around the corner and warmer weather on the horizon, students need to continue being mindful of the district’s Student Dress Code.  Please note the following:

• Extremely brief garments, such as short-shorts and/or overly short skirts, tank tops, strapless tops, plunging necklines, and see-through garments are not appropriate and should not be worn to school at any time. 
• Underwear and midriffs need to be covered with outer clothing. Garments that reveal a student’s midsection may not be worn to school at any time. 
• Footwear should be appropriate for school and not interfere with safety. 

Parents may be contacted to bring appropriate attire to Ames for their child. For more information on the Student Dress Code, please refer to the MassapequaSchools Code of Conduct.  

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation, and enjoy the upcoming weekend.

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

February 18, 2022

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians,

Throughout this week, we were fortunate to have a presenter from the Long Island Coalition Against Bullying (L.I.C.A.B.) push into Physical Education classes to have discussions with students about cyberbullying, social media habits and the lasting impacts of a digital footprint. Students were attentive, engaged, and participated in constructive dialogue.

We would also like to remind you of some opportunities that exist at Ames to support our students and parents/guardians as we continue to navigate through the school year:

• Virtual Parent Support Groups 2021-2022.  The next meeting for parents/guardians is on the topic of bullying and relational aggression, and it is scheduled for March 9th.
• Girl Empowerment Groups.  The next meeting for students is scheduled for Wednesday, March 9th.

Also, beginning March 9th, we are offering Family Transitions Student Support Groups.  Please view the following link for further information and details:  Family Transitions Student Support Groups

Just as a reminder, the deadline for registration and payment of all AP Exams is Tuesday, March 1, 2022.  Please click for detailed instructions on how to register and pay for the upcoming exams. It’s important to follow all steps to make sure the process has been finished completely and accurately. If you have any specific questions regarding this process, please email Mrs. Kennedy at dkennedy@msd.k12.ny.us.

As noted on the district calendar, school will not be in session next week for President’s Day and Mid-Winter Recess.  Students will return to classes beginning Monday, February 28th.  We wish all of our Ames families a healthy, safe and enjoyable week!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

February 4, 2022

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians,

At this time, the midterms are behind us and the new semester began this past Monday, January 31st.  Hopefully, you have been able to review the second quarter and midterm examination grades available on the Parent Portal. We encourage students to sit with their parents to review their progress thus far in the school year. It is the perfect time for students to reflect and create goals for the spring.

As a reminder, the grading breakdown for full year courses is as follows:

Quarter 1 20%

Quarter 2 20%

Midterm 8%

Quarter 3 20%

Quarter 4 20%

Final/Regents 12%

As a reminder, on Wednesday, February 9th, students will be participating in a period 1 assembly program presented by the Long Island Counsel of Alcohol and Drug Dependence (L.I.C.A.D.D.) which addresses the topic of addiction with a focus on vaping.  

During the week of February 14th, a presenter from the Long Island Coalition Against Bullying (L.I.C.A.B.) will be pushing into Physical Education classes to have discussions with students about cyberbullying, social media habits and the lasting impacts of a digital footprint.  Please note that the students are invited to complete an anonymous survey following the program presentation.  The survey is designed for students to provide feedback on the presentation.  The decision to participate is voluntary, and we will not be tracking how each student responds to the questions on the survey.  If you prefer that your child not participate, then please inform our office, in writing, by Thursday, February 10th.

In looking further ahead, please note that school will be closed from February 21 through February 25 for winter recess.  When we return from the break, the third mid-quarter appraisal on Friday, March 11th will be right around the corner.  

We wish our students and their families a wonderful second semester! Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

February 1, 2022

Dear Advanced Placement Community at Ames:

As we commence the second semester of the school year, our students and staff in the Advanced Placement Courses are already beginning to prepare for the exams in May. This year, the exams will be administered in-person as paper-and pencil assessments. Please click for detailed instructions on how to register and pay for the upcoming exams. It’s important to follow all steps to make sure the process has been finished completely and accurately. The deadline for registration and payment is March 1, 2022. Please note that late registrations will not be accepted. If you have any specific questions regarding this process, please email Mrs. Kennedy at dkennedy@msd.k12.ny.us.

The Exam Schedule:

Thank you for your support and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

January 14, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

We hope that this email finds you well as we continue to move forward towards the end of the first semester, which concludes on Friday, January 28th.  Next week, schools are closed on Monday, January 17th for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.  In addition, please review the following reminders pertaining to midterm examinations.

• In-Class Midterms: In-class midterms are scheduled for Tuesday, January 18th through Monday, January 24th. These exams occur in-class during regular school days. 

• Midterms: Regular full-length midterm examinations are scheduled for Tuesday, January 25th - Friday, January 28th. Students will report to school for their scheduled exams only.

• Students are not permitted access to a cell phone during any testing session. Students are encouraged to leave phones at home if they are not necessary; otherwise, all electronic devices must be submitted to the proctor or school official.

• In the event of school closure due to inclement weather, we will continue to follow the schedule as planned. 

• Students are responsible to bring in pens, pencils, and calculators for their exams.
• Select the following links for access to the:
• • Midterm Examination Schedule
  • Midterm Transportation Schedule

Looking ahead, please note that on Wednesday, February 9th, students will be participating in a period 1 assembly program presented by Long Island Counsel of Alcohol and Drug Dependence (L.I.C.A.D.D.) that addresses the topic of addiction with a focus on vaping.  

As a reminder, students should continue to bring their Chromebooks home with them on a daily basis, and return to school with them charged.  Students needing Chromebook support can visit the Chrome Depot during designated school hours.  Furthermore, instructional technology resources and information are available on the District website: Massapequa School District Instruction Technology Webpage. 

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation, and enjoy the upcoming long weekend.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

January 10, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

As a reminder, students began the process of planning their tenth grade schedules for the 2022-2023 school year following their return to school from the winter recess last week.  The Ames guidance counselors - Mrs. Balcuk, Ms. Levine, and Mrs. Mollura - visited all social studies classes to share information with students about the course selection process. Today is Course Advisement Day and students are communicating with their teachers regarding course recommendations.  Our guidance counselors will then begin meeting individually with each student to finalize their tenth grade schedule. Students will receive pink scheduling passes during homeroom for their specific appointment.

In addition, please note that our Principal’s Roundtable has been rescheduled from this Wednesday, January 12^th to the following Wednesday, January 19^th.  The session will be offered at 9am in the Ames Library.  Please complete the following form if you plan on attending: Principal Roundtable Registration

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

January 5, 2022

Dear Ames Students and Parents/Guardians,

We hope students’ first semester in high school has been a success! As the midpoint in the school year fast approaches, we would like for you to please make a note of the following:

In-Class Midterms

• In-class midterms are scheduled for Tuesday, January 18th through Monday, January 24th.  These exams occur in-class during regular school days. 

Midterms

• Regular full-length midterm examinations are scheduled for Tuesday, January 25th - Friday, January 28th. Students will report to school for their scheduled exams only.

Students are not permitted access to a cell phone during any testing session. Students are encouraged to leave phones at home if they are not necessary; otherwise, all electronic devices must be submitted to the proctor or school official.

In the event of school closure due to inclement weather, we will continue to follow the schedule as planned. 

Students are responsible to bring in pens, pencils, and calculators for their exams.

Please click the following links for access to the:

• Examination Schedule
• Midterm Transportation Schedule

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

January 3, 2022

Dear Ames Families,

Happy New Year!  We hope that you had a restful break, and that you were able to enjoy time with family and friends throughout the holidays.  Please note the following with regard to the Ames Winter Music Concert taking place at 8pm on Wednesday, January 5, 2022 in the Baldwin Auditorium at Massapequa High School (Main Campus): 

We respectfully request that those who attend the concert stay for the full duration of the performance. When people in the audience enter and leave, they disrupt the concert and others who are trying to enjoy their child’s performance. Our students have practiced since the beginning of the school year and look forward to showcasing their exemplary work. In this regard, they all deserve our full attention and respect. In addition, barring an unforeseen emergency, no performing student will be permitted to leave the concert early.

We appreciate your cooperation and your efforts to ensure a full audience for our students’ performances. For those who are unable to attend, please note that a video of the concert will be made available on the Ames building website.

On behalf of Ms. Cahalan, Mr. Gilbert, and Mr. Perticone, we welcome our Ames families to enjoy a superb musical performance. For further information specific to each ensemble, please visit the teacher’s PowerSchool Learning page. We look forward to seeing you there!

Sincerely,                                            

Tania M. Willman, Principal                 

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

Vincent Green, Director of Fine and Performing Arts 

December 23, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

As a reminder, school will be closed from Friday, December 24 through Friday, December 31st.  School will resume on Monday, January 3, 2022.

We would like to thank our wonderful students, our extremely supportive parents, and our exceptional faculty and staff for continuing to make Ames a very special place.  We wish you a restful break, joyous holiday season as well as a healthy and happy new year!  

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

December 17, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

With the second mid-quarter appraisal marked for today and the winter recess beginning next week, we wanted to share some important information with you regarding the remainder of the second quarter.

School Spirit

Student Government has organized a spirit week for students and staff at Ames that will be held from Monday, December 20th through Thursday, December 23rdas follows:

• Monday, 12/20 - Dress up as your favorite “Holiday Character Day”
• Tuesday, 12/21 - Pajama “Polar Express Day”
• Wednesday, 12/22 - Holiday Catastrophe Day (incorporate fuzzy socks, tinsel, wrapping paper, etc.)
• Thursday, 12/23 - Ugly Sweater Day

Winter Recess/ Vacation

School will be closed from Friday, December 24 through Friday, December 31stand will reopen on Monday, January 3, 2022.

Scheduling

Students will begin the process of planning their tenth grade schedules for the 2022-2023 school year immediately after their return to school from the winter recess.  The Ames guidance counselors - Mrs. Balcuk, Ms. Levine, and Mrs. Mollura - will be visiting all social studies classes to share information with students about the course selection process. Following these presentations, students will communicate with their teachers regarding course recommendations on Course Advisement Day, which will be held on Monday January 10th.  Our guidance counselors will then begin meeting individually with each student to finalize their tenth grade schedule. Students will receive pink scheduling passes during homeroom for their specific appointment.

Winter Concert

The Ames Winter Music Concert will be taking place at 8pm on Wednesday, January 5th, 2022 in the Baldwin Auditorium at Massapequa High School - Main Campus.

Midterm Examinations

Please note that from Tuesday, January 18th - Monday, January 24th, there will be in class midterm examinations that take place during the regular instructional school day.  Then, from Tuesday, January 25th - Friday, January 28th there will be midterm examination days where students only report to school for specific exams.  The detailed midterm exam schedule will be released in early January following the winter recess.  In addition, please note that the second marking period concludes on Friday, January 28th.

Principal’s Round Table 

Our second Principal’s Round Table is scheduled for Wednesday, January 12th at 9:00am in the Ames Library.  It is another opportunity for us to collaborate together on supporting the success of students. A registration form will be made available a week prior to the meeting.

Thank you for your ongoing support, and enjoy the weekend.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

December 3, 2021

Dear Ames Students and Parent/ Guardians,

As a reminder, students who access a cell phone or any other electronic communication device at school or on the bus are to adhere to the Massapequa School District’s Code of Conduct.  

Concerns regarding inappropriate use of cell phones that involve videotaping/recording or taking photos of others without permission have been brought to our attention by our students, parents, and staff.  Please know that we investigate reports, and address them accordingly.   In an effort to maintain a safe educational experience, students who do not comply with the district’s Code of Conduct may have their privileges suspended, in addition to any other school determined consequence as appropriate such as detention, in-school suspension (ISS) and being suspended from attending school (OSS).  

We are emphasizing the importance of complying with the Code of Conduct, respecting one another, and most importantly, working towards ensuring a safe environment for all.  We appreciate your support, and thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

November 24, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

As a reminder, today, Wednesday, November 24th, students will be dismissed from class at approximately 2:03 PM to accommodate a 2:10 PM rapid bus dismissal drill. No after school clubs or extra-help will be in session at Ames, and there is no 3:10 PM late bus. Sports schedules will remain in place at the discretion of the athletic coaches.

Reflecting on the close of the first marking period, our students have begun a successful start to high school by exhibiting noteworthy achievements in academics and athletics. In addition, through different clubs, students made a difference and participated in initiatives to support those who are in need. 

With the second quarter underway, we wanted to take this opportunity to express gratitude for the tremendous work of the Class of 2025 thus far.  Together with our Ames faculty and staff, we thank you for your ongoing support of our school community.  We wish you and your families all the best for a very Happy Thanksgiving! 

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

November 19, 2021

Dear Ames Parent/Guardians,

We are officially into the second marking period, and Thanksgiving is next week!  Students have been putting forth an outstanding effort in the areas of academics, athletics and clubs/activities at school.  As of this week, students have already received their first marking period grades.  At the end of quarter, teachers can also provide comments on the Parent Portal about students' performance and/or areas of concern. After reviewing these grades and comments, students and parents are always encouraged to speak directly with the appropriate classroom teacher and/or guidance counselor with any questions.

Next week, the Ames site-based Shared Decision Making (SDM) Committee will be meeting on Monday, November 22nd at 2:30pm in Room 133. The committee continues to be an open forum to our students, parents, and staff members. 

On Wednesday, November 24th, students will be dismissed from class at approximately 2:03 PM to accommodate a 2:10 PM Rapid Dismissal Drill. Please note that no after school extra-help will be in session at Ames that day. School will then be closed on Thursday, November 25th and Friday, November 26th for the Thanksgiving holiday.

As a reminder, the following link is available to view information regarding the Class of 2025 clothing sale, which concludes on Wednesday, November 24th:  Class of 2025 Spirit Wear.  Go Chiefs!

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.  We wish you and your family the best as you prepare for the holiday season.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

November 12, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

We are reaching out to you regarding the following reminders:

• The Class of 2025 spirit wear continues to be for sale through Wednesday, November 24th.  Please view the following link for detailed information regarding the ordering process:  Class of 2025 Spirit Wear.  Go Chiefs!
• Our first Principal’s Round Table this year will be held for parents/guardians on Wednesday, November 17th at 6:30pm in the Library at Ames. It is another opportunity for us to collaborate together on supporting the success of students. Please complete the following registration form in advance to assist us in planning for the evening program:  Principal Round Table Registration

Thank you for your ongoing support, and regards for a good weekend ahead.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

November 8, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

Please view the following flyers regarding ongoing supports available at Ames:

• Virtual Parent Support Groups 2021-2022.  The next meeting for parents/guardians is scheduled for this Wednesday, November 10th at 11am.
• Girl Empowerment Groups.  The next meeting for students is scheduled for Wednesday, December 1st.

Feel free to contact Mrs. Kim Hession, school social worker, at (516) 308-5850 or khession@msd.k12.ny.us with any further questions about either of these programs.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

November 5, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

We are excited to share with you the completed design, which was created and also selected by our students at Ames, for this year’s Class of 2025 spirit wear!  Please view the following link for detailed information regarding the ordering process:  Class of 2025 Spirit Wear.  Go Chiefs!

Looking ahead at next week, school is closed on Thursday, November 11th for Veterans Day.  Furthermore, Friday, November 12th marks the end of the first marking period.  Students have access for additional support through extra-help as well as Learn-at-Lunch in math and science.  

As a reminder, our first Principal’s Round Table this year will be held for parents/guardians on November 17th at 6:30pm. It is another opportunity for us to collaborate together on supporting the success of students at Ames. Please complete the following registration form in advance to assist us in planning for the evening program:  Principal Round Table Registration

For health and safety purposes, please be advised that students who begin not feeling well during the school day are to report to the health office and see the school nurse.  Following assessment by the  nurse and communication with the parent, students who need to go home will be released through the health office.

Finally, we will all be adjusting our clocks for the end of daylight saving time this weekend on Sunday, November 7th where we “fall back” one hour. Please keep this in mind for the start of school on Monday next week.

We thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.  Enjoy the weekend!

Sincerely, 

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

October 27, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

Although Halloween is on Sunday, October 31st, students may wear costumes to school on Friday, October 29th.  However, students are to be mindful of appropriate attire for a school atmosphere, and are not permitted to carry “props.” In addition, students may not wear items that would disguise their identity.  Other than wearing the required masks for health and safety purposes, student faces should not be covered.

In addition, this Friday, October 29th and Monday, November 1st, students will have an opportunity to vote on the t-shirt design for this year’s Class of 2025 spirit wear.  Clothing orders will then begin on Wednesday, November 3rd and will continue through November 19th.  Specific details regarding the ordering process will be forthcoming.

While looking into next week, please note that on Tuesday, November 2nd, schools are closed for Election Day.  At the end of the following week, schools are also closed on Thursday, November 11th for Veterans Day.  Furthermore, Friday, November 12th marks the end of the first marking period.  Students are encouraged to continue working diligently and utilizing opportunities available to them through extra-help as well as Learn-at-Lunch in math and science.

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation. We look forward to a strong finish to the month of October!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

October 15, 2021

Dear Ames Parents/Guardians,

It was a pleasure being able to meet and connect with you at last night’s “Successful Start to High School” workshop presented by our guidance counselors at Ames.  If you were unable to attend, the presentation may be accessed by viewing the Ames Guidance PowerSchool Learning (PSL) site:  Ames Guidance 2021-2022.  We recommend exploring the site for a variety of additional resources that may be of assistance throughout the school year.

Students continue to be involved in a variety of activities after school, and often work to find a good balance between academics, athletics and clubs.  Please know that we also offer a Learn at Lunch program in the academic areas of mathematics and science.  Students are able to access support during their lunch (periods 4-7) as follows:

• Mathematics: Tuesday - Friday in Room 116
• Science: Wednesday - Thursday in Room 136

Next week on Wednesday, 10/20 and Thursday, 10/21,  students will be given the opportunity to have yearbook photos taken with their respective clubs at Ames in the Small Gym.  Club advisors will be notifying students with regard to their assigned photo day.  Retakes for individual photos that were taken in September will be offered to students on Monday, October 25th during lunch periods in the alcove outside the cafeteria.

In addition, on Monday, October 25th the Ames site-based Shared Decision Making (SDM) Committee will hold its next meeting at 2:30 p.m. in Room 133.  Our site-based forum allows faculty, staff, students, parents and administrators to come together in order to discuss ideas and practices so as to make recommendations that will positively impact our school.  If you are interested in becoming a parent/guardian representative, please respond via email to dkennedy@msd.k12.ny.us by Friday, October 22nd.

As a reminder, if your child is going to be absent from school, please complete and submit the Absence Notification Form located within the PowerSchool Parent Portal.  Please understand that if you should contact our building’s attendance office to report an absence by phone, you will be directed to log into the portal and complete the form. 

Finally, please mark your calendar for our first Principal’s Round Table this year on November 17th at 6:30pm. It is another opportunity for us to collaborate with you on supporting the success of your child at Ames. As we approach closer to the date, we will forward a registration form to assist us in planning for the evening program.    

Thank you for your ongoing support.  Enjoy the weekend ahead!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

October 13, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

As of the end of last week, students have already received their first marking period mid-quarter appraisal for the 2021-2022 school year.  At each mid-quarter point, teachers can provide comments on the Parent Portal about student performance and/or areas of concern. After reviewing these comments, students and parents/guardians are always encouraged to speak directly with the appropriate classroom teacher and/or guidance counselor with any questions.

As a reminder, guidance counselors at the Ames Campus have cordially invited parents/guardians to attend the “Successful Start to High School” workshop on Thursday, October 14th at 7:00pm in the Ames Cafeteria. Please click on the following link for more information:  Guidance Workshop Flyer.  In order to most efficiently prepare for the evening program, we kindly ask that you complete the following registration form in advance:  Registration Form

In addition, the first of this year’s virtual support groups for parents/guardians was held today on the topic of Mental Health and Wellness for Teens.  Please select the following link to view the extensive program information and schedule for the remainder of the school year brought to you by the collaborative team of social workers: Virtual Parent Support Groups

It has been very exciting to see so many students involved in after school activities at Ames and/or MHS-Main Campus.  Students are off to a great start to their freshman experience, and we encourage them to seize the opportunities that will continue to be available to them throughout the school year.

Thank you for your ongoing cooperation and support.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

October 7, 2021

Dear Ames Parents and Guardians,

Guidance Counselors at the Ames Campus cordially invite you to attend the “Successful Start to High School” workshop on Thursday, October 14th at 7PMin the Ames Cafeteria. Click on the following link for more information:  Guidance Workshop Flyer

In order to most efficiently prepare for the evening program, we kindly ask that you complete the following registration form in advance:  Registration Form

Thank you for your ongoing support, and we look forward to seeing and connecting with you next week at Ames.  

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

October 7, 2021  

Dear Ames Students and Parent/ Guardians,

As a reminder, students who ride the bus to and from school, take the shuttle bus from Ames to MHS - Main Campus or as a part of any school sponsored activity are to adhere to the Massapequa School District’s Code of Conduct.

It is crucial for students to behave appropriately while riding on district buses, to ensure their safety and that of other passengers, and to avoid distracting the bus driver. Students are required to conduct themselves on the bus and at bus stops in a manner consistent with established standards for classroom behavior, and in accordance with the Code of Conduct.  For example, throwing objects in or out of the bus, bullying, harassment, intimidation, excessive noise, videotaping and/or picture taking, shoving, fighting or using profane language or gestures will not be tolerated.  Students must remain seated at all times while the bus is moving, and are to comply with the NYS mandate requiring masks be worn while on school buses.

Concerns regarding student conduct have been brought to our attention by our students, parents, staff and bus drivers.  Please know that we investigate reports, with information gathered from student accounts and video camera footage from bus rides, and address them accordingly.   In an effort to maintain a safe educational experience, it is important to note that students who do not comply with the district’s Code of Conduct may have their bus privileges suspended, in addition to any other school determined consequence as appropriate such as detention, in-school suspension (ISS) and being suspended from attending school (OSS).  

We are emphasizing the importance of complying with the Code of Conduct, respecting one another, and most importantly, working towards ensuring the safety of all.  We appreciate your support, and thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

September 24, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

It was wonderful to see so many parents/guardians attend our Back to School Night program at Ames earlier this week. We hope that you found the evening informative and helpful, and we appreciate your ongoing support.

Students and staff throughout these past days had fun dressing up in a variety of themes to celebrate Spirit Week. As a reminder, Spirit Week culminates tomorrow, Saturday, September 25th with the Homecoming parade and football game versus Port Washington.  The parade will begin from the Village of Massapequa Park Municipal Parking Lot at 12:30pm and conclude at Massapequa High School. Kickoff time for the football game is at 2:00pm. 

On Monday, October 4th the Ames site-based Shared Decision Making (SDM) Committee is scheduled to hold its first meeting of the 2021-20202 school year at 2:30 p.m. in Room 133.  This site-based forum allows faculty and staff, students, parents and administrators to come together once a month in order to discuss ideas and practices in order to make recommendations that will positively impact the our school.  

At this time, we are looking for some interest from parents/guardians in joining the committee.  The meetings are anticipated to conclude before the 3:10pm late bus dismissal for students, but can be adjusted as needs and time permit. Please respond to dkennedy@msd.k12.ny.us by the end of the day on Friday, October 1st if you would like to join us as a new or returning member for this year.

In looking ahead, our first mid-quarter appraisal is on Friday, October 8th.  As we continue a strong and fast start to the school year, students are reminded to give their best effort as well as to access extra-help available after school: Extra-Help schedule.

For our Ames parents/guardians, please also mark your calendar for our first Principal’s Round Table this year on November 17th at 6:30pm. As we approach closer to the date, we will forward a registration form to assist us in planning for the evening program. 

Enjoy the weekend ahead!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

September 17, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

It’s been an active week at Ames!  We began this week with school portraits being taken, we successfully engaged  in a series of emergency management drills, and we concluded the week by holding a virtual 9th grade assembly program.  Overall, students are building connections, engaging in learning, and working towards a strong start to the school year.

On Monday, September 20th, we begin Spirit Week as follows: 

• Monday, September 20th:  Pajama Day
• Tuesday, September 21st:  Tie Dye Tuesday
• Wednesday, September 22nd:  Wacky Wednesday (Crazy Hair, Crazy Sock, Mismatch Day combined)
• Thursday, September 23rd:  Hawaiian Day 
• Friday, September 24th:  Chiefs Blue & Gold Day

Spirit week culminates on Saturday, September 25th with the Homecoming parade and football game versus Port Washington.  The parade will begin from the Village of Massapequa Park Municipal Parking Lot at 12:30pm and conclude at Massapequa High School.  Kickoff time for the football game is at 2:00pm.  Go Chiefs!

 As a reminder, Back to School Night will take place on Monday, September 20th at 7pm.  Please click on the links below to access the flyer and “Back-to-School Night” memo to parents.  

• Back-to-School Night Flyer, September 2021
• Back-to-School Night Memo for Parents 2021-2022

We look forward to connecting with parents/guardians next week as well as seeing our students and staff bringing their school spirit and demonstrating Massapequa pride.  Be well, and enjoy the upcoming weekend!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

September 13, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

Our “Back-to-School Night” will take place on Monday, September 20th at 7 PM.  Please click on the links below to access the flyer and “Back-to-School Night” memo to parents.  

Back-to-School Night Flyer, September 2021

Back-to-School Night Memo for Parents 2021-2022

We look forward to seeing you next week.  If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

September 10, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

It’s been a short first week of the 2021-2022 school year, but it has been a pleasure for all of us at Ames to connect with the incoming freshman class!  Students are doing an excellent job thus far working to acclimate to the Ames Campus.  Today, we also commemorated September 11th, a Day of Remembrance, and included a moment of silence.  Students and staff dressed in patriotic colors of red, white and blue.  We continue to remain a community of strength.  

We would also like to share the following additional information with you:

• Extra-Help
• Please view the following Extra-Help schedule. Extra-Help occurs after school during 10th period, and late buses are available.  Please note that late bus routes make area stops only.  
• Picture Day
• On Monday, September 13th (Day 1) and Tuesday, September 14th (Day 2) all students are invited to have their freshman class portraits taken in the Small Gym during their physical education classes. A make-up session has been scheduled for Monday, October 25th outside the cafeteria during lunch periods.  Please note that students will be photographed against a green screen in order to offer a variety of background choices. For best results, it is recommended that you avoid wearing complicated patterns or shades of green. 
• Emergency Management Drills
• Beginning Tuesday, 9/14 and on Wednesday, 9/15 we plan to exercise a series of mandatory emergency management drills that will include practicing a bus drill, fire drill, lockout drill and lockdown drill.  A school lockout is a procedure used when there is an incident outside the school building.  During a lockout, each entrance will be locked, and no one will be permitted to enter or exit the building. A school lockdown is a procedure used when there is an immediate and imminent threat inside the school building. Once a lockdown is declared, building activities cease and students and staff are secured in locked rooms while being out of view as much as possible. No one will be permitted to enter or leave the building. In the event of either a lockout or lockdown, parents will not be able to sign-out children until the circumstances have been deemed safe.  
• While these drills are mandatory, we have also planned appropriate health and safety adjustments to these drills where necessary. Also, please know that we continue to work in collaboration with our district security and Nassau County Police Department in an effort to support the safety of all students and staff in our school community.
• Virtual “Welcome Back” Student Assembly
• Friday, September 17th during 1st period.  Ames building administration will livestream a Google Meet student assembly program with all students.  

Please know that you can reach out to us with questions or concerns, and we thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.  We look forward to an outstanding year ahead!.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

August 25, 2021

Dear Ames Students and Families,

As a reminder, the Ames Student Walk Through is scheduled for next week on Tuesday, August 31st.  Please select the following link to view information:  Ames Class of 2025 Student Walk Through.

We are excited to “meet and greet” you when you arrive at Ames to tour the building with your tentative class schedule.  Please note that the bell schedule and building map were enclosed with your welcome letter through the summer mailing.  

If you are a new entrant to the school district, we ask that you please visit the Chrome Depot during the Student Walk Through in order to obtain your Chromebook.  Our staff will be able to assist you with account creation and information as well as an overview of the portal.

In addition, we are sharing a few Google Slides with you that includes helpful information about navigating your first day of school:  Ames Student Orientation.  We encourage you to review this information prior to the Student Walk Through so that you may connect with our Ames building staff about any outstanding questions you may have.

Enjoy the upcoming weekend, and we look forward to seeing you next week!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Tania M. Willman, Principal 

Mrs. Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

June 25, 2021

Dear Ames Students and Families,

As freshman year of high school comes to a close,  we are reaching out to our families to let you know how genuinely grateful we are for the support you have extended to us since prior to the start of the school year and while navigating through some of these most challenging times together.  Thank you!

With regard to our 9th grade students, we have greatly enjoyed our experiences with you, and we are confident that a bright future lies ahead.  As you enter the next phase of your educational experience, you will take with you the memories that you have made at the Ames Campus of Massapequa High School.  Congratulations on all your achievements, and we wish you all the best at the main campus of Massapequa High School and in life!  

If we may be of further assistance to you in the future, then please do not hesitate to reach out to us.  Best wishes to all of you for a happy and healthy summer!

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

June 15, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

Just as a reminder, please review the information below:

Locker Cleanout

Locker cleanout will occur tomorrow on Wednesday, June 16th before the start of first period or at the end of ninth period. Students should bring all personal items home. All lockers must be emptied by the end of the day, and students will not have access to their lockers after tomorrow.

Finals/Regents Exams and Important Dates 

Please review the Final Exam/Regents schedule (click here: Ames Final Exam Schedule June 2021) and the updated transportation schedule (click here: Ames Final Exam Transportation Schedule June 2021).  If your child has any further questions, please encourage them to visit the Guidance Office. 

• Beginning on Thursday, June 17th students will report to school only if they have a scheduled final or Regents examination. Friday, June 18th students will be attending school as a full and regular instructional day as a result of the Juneteenth holiday. On Monday, June 21st, the school will once again resume a schedule in which students only report to the building for an exam.  
• Please note that we will be continuing with the Day 1/Day 2 rotation until the end of the week, even though we are having final exams on Thursday, June 17th. Therefore, both Wednesday and Friday this week will be operating on a Day 2 schedule. 
• Students are prohibited from having possession of electronic devices including, but not limited to a cell phone, iPod, MPS Player, iPad, camera, headphones, smartwatch, and AirPods while in a testing room and/or during testing administration. Students who bring devices with them to an exam must provide those devices to the proctor. 
• Parents still need to complete the Student Daily Health Screening and Attendance Notification Form for the days students are scheduled to take a final exam. 

Student IDs

Students are expected to continue wearing their student IDs and lanyards throughout the final exam administration session.  

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

June 8, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

Next week includes our last day of classes! Please read the information below regarding locker cleanout, final/Regents exams, as well as absence and cell phone policies during the exam period.

Locker Cleanout

Locker cleanout will occur next week on Wednesday, June 16th before the start of first period or at the end of ninth period. Students should bring all personal items home. All lockers must be emptied by the end of the day on Wednesday, June 16th, and students will not have access to their lockers after Wednesday.

Finals/Regents Exams

Please review the Final Exam/Regents schedule (click here: Ames Final Exam Schedule June 2021) and the transportation schedule (click here: Ames Final Exam Transportation Schedule June 2021.  If your child has any further questions, please encourage them to visit the Guidance Office. 

• As a reminder, final exams and Regents Exams constitute 12% of a student’s grade in the course.  It is important to note that these exams are not optional, and students should fully prepare for these assessments to the greatest extent possible. There are still opportunities to attend Learn at Lunch this week as well as extra-help in the final days of school.
• Beginning on Thursday, June 17, 2021 students will report to school only if they have a scheduled final or Regents examination, but then students will be attending school as a full and regular instructional day on June 18th as a result of the Juneteenth holiday.  Following that date, the school will once again resume a schedule in which students only report to the building for an exam.  
• An excused absence from the final exams on June 17 - June 24 will exempt the student from the exam. An unexcused absence from the final exams may result in a grade of zero.
• Students are prohibited from having possession of electronic devices including, but not limited to: a cell phone, iPod, MPS Player, iPad, camera, headphones, smartwatch, and AirPods while in a testing room and/or during a testing administration. Students who bring devices with them to a test must provide those devices to the testing proctor. 

Throughout the course of the school year, students have worked diligently to build towards their foundation for tenth grade. We encourage them to continue to do the best they can as they prepare for finals and Regents examinations. 

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

May 20, 2021

Good morning Ames AP Students and Families, 

Please read the following attachment regarding upcoming AP Exams.

Sincerely, 

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal 

Attachments:
 messages/attachments/5c99a2a1a9a90108e3df28f41d45921d/Important_Communication_Re__AP_Exams_-_Google_Docs.pdf (120.4 KB)

May 12, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

The fourth marking period mid-quarter appraisal is this Friday, May 14th.  Next month, students will begin sitting for final or Regents exams.  We wish them the best of luck as they prepare for a strong finish to their ninth grade experience at the Ames Campus of Massapequa High School. 

Finals/Regents Exams

Please review the Final Exam/Regents schedule (click here: Ames Final Exam Schedule June 2021) and the transportation schedule (click here: Ames Final Exam Transportation Schedule June 2021. 

• You will note in this year’s schedule that although beginning on Thursday, June 17, 2021 students will report to school only if they have a scheduled final or Regents examination, students will be attending school as a full and regular instructional day on June 18th as a result of the Juneteenth holiday.  Following that date, the school will once again resume a schedule in which students only report to the building for an exam.  After referring to the schedule noted above, please contact your child’s guidance counselor at (516) 308-5830 with any further questions or concerns.
• As a reminder, students who are opting to take the Regents Examination in Living Environment, Earth Science and/or Algebra I in lieu of the local department final were to contact and notify their guidance counselor prior to Friday, April 23rd.  Otherwise, it is expected that the student will be taking the local departmental exam.  
• Any excused absence from the final on June 17 - June 24 will exempt the student from the exam. Any unexcused absence from the final may result in a grade of zero.
• Students are prohibited from having possession of electronic devices including, but not limited to: a cell phone, iPod,  MPS Player, iPad, camera, headphones, smartwatch, and AirPods while in a testing room and/or during a testing administration. Students who bring devices with them to a test must provide those devices to the testing proctor. 

 Thank you for your ongoing cooperation and support.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

April 20, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

This past Friday, April 16th marked the end of the third marking period.  As we forge ahead into the last few months of the school year, we encourage our students to continue working hard in the realm of academics and athletics, while also seizing the variety of offerings that are available to them at Ames, MHS-Main Campus and in our school community.

On Friday, April 23rd we look forward to welcoming a panel of Massapequa School District alumni at our annual Alumni Career Day.  The program will be held virtually, and students will be following an adjusted bell schedule to support the one hour program that day.  Students will be afforded a wonderful opportunity to engage in a Q&A session after hearing about a variety of careers and experiences from former graduates.  As a follow up, we invite parents to discuss this event with their child to see what knowledge and insights the students may have acquired from the event.

Also on Friday, April 23rd, Ames will be recognizing the National Day of Silence. Supported by The Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN),  Day of Silence brings awareness to the harassment and discrimination experienced by students based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Students take a day-long vow of silence to symbolically represent the silencing of LGBTQ+ students and their friends.  Students who wish to participate will be given a silence card and informational sheet.  The silence card will be used to indicate their vow of silence to teachers and peers. The students are informed that, while they do have a right to participate in Day of Silence between classes and before and after school, they may not have the right to stay silent during instructional time if a teacher requests them to speak.  If you would like to have more information on GLSEN or the Day of Silence, please visit the links below:                                                

• GLSEN's Day of Silence 
• GLSEN: Homepage 

Should you have any further questions, you can email Mrs. Kim Hession, social worker at Ames, at khession@msd.k12.ny.us or call the Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Office at (516) 308-5830. 

In addition, please note that as we continue to plan for the final examination period in June that any students who will be opting to take the Regents Examination in Living Environment, Earth Science and/or Algebra I in lieu of the local department final are to contact and notify their guidance counselor prior to Friday, April 23rd.  Otherwise, for planning purposes it is anticipated that the student will be taking the local departmental exam.  

Please feel free to reach out with any further questions or concerns, and thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

March 26, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

Spring is here, and today is the last day of classes prior to the start of the Passover/Easter recess.  As you are aware, we have taken the time to explore the expansion of some school based, in-person student activities following the April break.  We are pleased to share that upon our return from the spring recess,  club advisors will be in collaboration with their members and may begin transitioning to in-person meetings.    Furthermore, students will be able to access the vending machines in the cafeteria during their lunch periods and will be able to purchase snacks using their MySchoolBucks card.  The library will be open after school with safe capacity guidelines, and the Chrome Depot will be open in the afternoon following 9th period to provide service for Chromebooks.  It is important to note that all these transitions must be inclusive of continuing to adhere to health and safety guidelines.

In addition, we would also like to remind all parents and guardians about exercising caution when dropping off or picking up students.  When buses are in the semicircle along Baltimore Avenue or lined up along Pittsburgh Avenue, no cars should be passing the buses - especially when students are getting off or on the buses.  Similarly, and for everyone’s safety, if you are waiting in a line of cars at arrival or dismissal, please do not drive around the vehicles in front of you.  

Thank you for your anticipated cooperation and support.  School will resume on Wednesday, April 7th.  We hope that you all have a well-deserved, restful and relaxing break. 

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

March 24, 2021

Dear Ames Parents/ Guardians,

As a reminder, our third Principal’s Roundtable meeting for the 2020-2021 school year is scheduled for this evening, Wednesday, March 24th at 7pm, and the meeting will be held via Google Meet. Please use the following Google Meet Code to access the meeting: ahsroundtable2021

As a reminder, you will need to access the Google Meet using your child’s school issued @msd23.org account. Example, firstname.lastname@msd23.org. We look forward to connecting with you then.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal
Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

March 17, 2021

Dear Ames Parents/ Guardians,

Our third Principal’s Roundtable meeting for the 2020-2021 school year is scheduled for next week on Wednesday, March 24th at 7pm, and the meeting will be held via Google Meet. Please use the following Google Meet Code to access the meeting:    ahsroundtable2021

As a reminder, you will need to access the Google Meet using your child’s school issued @msd23.org account.  Example, firstname.lastname@msd23.org.  We look forward to connecting with you then.   

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

March 12, 2021

Dear Students, Parents, Guardians, and Families,

We are pleased to share that the District has given us the opportunity to explore the expansion of some school based, in-person student activities for our buildings following the April break. As safety remains the priority we must continue to adhere to all NYS and DOH rules and guidelines related to Covid-19. Therefore, while certain events will need to remain virtual this year, please be assured that we will work closely with the District and each of our building teams to bring back as many in-person student activities as possible. 

We thank you all for your continued support during these challenging times and look forward to bringing a greater sense of normalcy to enrich our students’ school experience.

Go Chiefs!

Mr. Esposito, BMS Principal

Mrs. Willman, Ames Principal

Ms. Lowell, MHS Principal

March 12, 2021

Dear Advanced Placement Community at Ames:

Earlier this week, we communicated that we will be sharing information today regarding how to register and pay for the upcoming AP Exams.  Please click for detailed instructions on how to complete the process. As a reminder for the 2020-2021 school year only, students will not be required to sit for the AP exam and all students enrolled in the AP course will still receive the AP weighting on their transcript. Also, the exams will be administered digitally and students will be taking it at home during their scheduled time. The deadline for registration and payment is April 16, 2021. Please note that late registrations will not be accepted. If you have any specific questions regarding this process, please email Mrs. Kennedy at dkennedy@msd.k12.ny.us.

Thank you for your support and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

March 9, 2021

Dear Advanced Placement Community at Ames:

After a review of information received from College Board, discussions with teachers, and review by administration we are prepared to announce the AP Exam schedule and format decision for Massapequa High School-Ames Campus.  

The Exam Schedule and format are as follows:

What factors went into the decision?

-Contact Tracing experience and Quarantine history of students at Ames

-Continued existence of Distance Learners and current COVID guidelines

-Room/Space availability for exams in building

-Ability to plan and provide optimal testing conditions offered by College Board

-Avoidance of reactionary responses that might disrupt focus of students

How will Ames treat attendance on AP Exam days?

As per custom, students will be excused from attending classes for that day.

Do I have to take the AP Exam?

For the 2020-2021 school year only, students will not be required to sit for the AP exam and all students enrolled in the AP course will still receive the AP weighting on their transcripts.

How do I register and pay for AP Exams?

A separate email communication will be sent by March 12th.

Why are some tests in school and most digitally from home?

The AP Language Exams (which are not being administered at the Ames Campus) are ONLY being given in-person at schools this year.

Will a student receive an advantage from either exam format?

According to College Board, compared to a paper and pencil version, there’s nothing about an AP Exam being digital, or about any particular version of the digital exam, that inherently affects a student’s ability to get a particular score.  AP Exams are designed such that a student’s AP Exam score reflects the level of ability and achievement they demonstrate—not a specific predetermined number of points they earn—on their exam. While different versions of an exam are intended to have comparable difficulty levels, some individual questions will be slightly easier or harder than others. Accordingly, for decades, AP has used standard and widely supported psychometric and statistical procedures, called linking and equating, to provide students with comparable scores regardless of which exam version they take. Digital Testing is no exception, even with the addition of a digital version for most AP Exams. Psychometricians will apply linking and equating protocols to account for differences between exam versions. 

Will a college be told what version of the test was taken?

Higher education institutions will accept AP scores equally for all versions of the exam—accordingly, a student’s score report will not indicate which version of the exam the student takes.

What resources are available to help students and educators prepare for Digital Exams?

Available in March: 

• AP digital testing overview video: This short video gives students a basic understanding of digital AP Exams. 
• AP digital testing slideshow: Explore features of the digital testing application, learn how to get your device ready, and see how exam questions will be displayed. 
• cb.org/ap2021: Find links to the exam schedule, all digital testing resources, answers to frequently asked questions, and more.

 Available beginning April 8: 

• 2021 Digital AP Exams application: AP students and teachers can download the application and practice answering multiple-choice and/or free-response questions.

If I have been approved and receive Accommodations from College Board?

Students will be able to use their approved accommodations for 2021 digital AP Exams. As always, students may only use accommodations that they've been approved for by the College Board Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) office.

Information will continue to be disseminated to AP students as we approach the exams and receive further guidance from College Board.  

Thank you for your support and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

February 23, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

We hope that you had a relaxing and enjoyable February recess.  As we move closer to the spring season, we wanted to connect with you on some important information and opportunities at Ames:

“Be Kind to Your Mind” Student Workshops:

Our school social worker, Mrs. Hession, is offering a 4 week education and support series for students who want to learn how to manage stress and anxiety.  The workshop will include evidenced based strategies to help students gain an understanding of the physical, social, emotional, behavioral, and academic impact of unmanaged stress and anxiety. Students will learn proven ways to reduce stress and anxiety and develop an individualized plan for mental wellness.  For further details and registration information, please select the following link: Be Kind to Your Mind Flyer  

AP Courses: 

Recently, we received information from College Board concerning the administration and format of the spring Advanced Placement examinations.  The 2021 AP Exams will be conducted in three administration periods with exams administered in a digital format at home or a paper format in school based on a detailed schedule provided by the College Board. Please note for the 2020-2021 school year only, students will not be required to sit for the AP exam and all students enrolled in AP course will still receive the AP weighting on their transcripts.

Please understand the District has already started to review the details of the test administration guidelines.  We are working to develop a final testing schedule that is both in the best interest of our students as well as logistically possible given numerous constraints and considerations. Our final AP testing schedule will reflect guidance and input from our College Board Representative, in addition to ongoing discussions with AP teachers and administrators. Once this decision has been finalized, administrators will notify teachers, students, and parents of the AP exam schedule for Ames.  This information will be disseminated prior to our communication explaining how to pay and register for each exam.

Mid-Quarter Appraisals

In looking ahead, the third-marking period mid-quarter appraisal is at the end of next week on Friday, March 5th.  Students are encouraged to access Learn at Lunch opportunities in Math and Science as well as attend extra-help sessions with teachers.

Daily Attendance and Health Form:

As a reminder, the daily health and attendance form is to be completed daily for students attending in person and students who are attending remotely.

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal 

February 5, 2021

Dear Ames Parents/ Guardians,

COVID Testing is required for all 9th grade students participating in V/JV Basketball, Wrestling and Cheerleading. Please, only parents/guardians of students participating in any of the aforementioned sports must view and complete the following Google Form with regard to transportation for Monday, February 8th and Monday, February 22nd:  https://forms.gle/cNPDNvGv6Qd8rAMq8

(Note:  The same Google Form is also accessible through Family ID on the Athletics page of the district website.)

Thank you for your support and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

February 2, 2021

Dear Ames Parents/ Guardians,

Please be advised that the next virtual support group for parents is scheduled for Tuesday, February 9th at 11am.  The topic will focus on Social Media & Gaming Trends.  Please select the following link to view the extensive program information, Google Meet codes and schedule for the 2020-2021 school year brought to you by the collaborative team of school social workers: Virtual Parent Support Group

Sincerely,

Tania M. Willman, Principal

Danielle E. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal

February 1, 2021

Dear Ames Families,

As a reminder, the district has moved to a full remote learning model on Tuesday, February 2nd and students will follow their Day 1 schedule. Therefore, all students will be accessing their classes remotely and following their full day schedule. 

Stay safe,

Mrs. Willman, Principal

Mrs. Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Principal