Middle School Newsletter - February 17, 2021

Eighth Grade Human Sexuality

As part of our Wellness curriculum, eighth graders will participate in an educational unit on Human Sexualilty. Lottie Walker, our former Middle School counselor, will join us virtually to present the unit on sexuality during science classes, on Mondays and Tuesdays, for three consecutive weeks. Each student will participate in a total of three lessons. The material will include a brief review of the physiological changes of puberty and the sexual reproductive system; an overview of sexually transmitted diseases; an in-depth discussion of consent and healthy communication; an examination of terminology used to differentiate sexuality from gender; and an introduction to the topic of abstinence and pregnancy prevention. There will also be an emphasis on exploring family and individual values and relating them to healthy interpersonal relationships.

The material will be presented in a developmentally appropriate manner, with respect for the diversity and unique needs of each student in the classroom. We hope this unit will provide a further opportunity for you to have conversations with your child about sexuality and relationships. For additional information on the topics covered, please refer to this unit overview.  Lottie will also be available for parent questions on Thursday, February 18, and Thursday, February 25, 10-10:30 a.m., using this Google Meet Link. Please contact Middle School Counselor John Magner with any questions.

About the Presenter: Lottie Walker, MSW, LGSW, CSE

Lottie Walker is an AASECT-certified sex educator and full-time psychotherapist with The Sibley Group in Washington, D.C. Before joining The Sibley Group, Lottie worked as a Middle School counselor at Flint Hill, delivering wellness education. She has been teaching our 8th grade Human Sexuality Unit for the past eight years. She received her sex educator training at the University of Michigan School of Social Work, where she also received her MSW. Lottie has extensive experience working with youth and delivering sexuality education.

Save the Date: Empty Bowls 2021

Empty Bowls will look a little different this year — the entire event will be online! The excitement kicks off on March 1, at 7 p.m., with a live Google Meet featuring DC Central Kitchen’s CEO Mike Curtin, Upper School Ceramics Teacher Julia Cardone and the students of the Clay Club. The event will also serve as the launch of our online auction/sale website. You can bid on one-of-a-kind items, or purchase bowls for a fixed price. Watch this space for a link to be shared soon!

UPDATES AND REMINDERS FROM LAST WEEK

Time for a mask check! An Update from Director of Health Services, Mary Hart

Here are some things to consider when deciding if it's time to upgrade you or your student’s mask:

• Does it fit well?
• Does it cover your mouth and nose without constantly having to adjust it?
• Have you tried the light and candle test?
  • If you hold your mask up towards the light, can you see the light coming through the weave of the mask?
  • Can you blow a candle out while you are wearing your mask?

If you answered yes to the above two questions, it is best to wear a different mask or add another layer underneath. Even Dr. Fauci says he doubles up on his masks!

As a specific example, although super well-fitting and really nice looking, the popular Rothy’s masks may not be the best choice to wear alone. If you or your student/s own one of these masks, try the light and candle tests to see how well they fare. If they are just too comfortable to get rid of, then try adding a disposable mask or another layer or filter underneath.

The CDC reminds us to choose a mask that has:

• Two or more layers of breathable, washable fabric that completely covers your nose and mouth and fits snugly against your skin without gaps on the side.
• A double-layered disposable mask with a pliable metal piece that goes around your nose is another great option and is great for those of us who wear glasses!

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.

Recording for Fine Arts Coffee

Recording for Tuesday’s Fine Arts Coffee is now available on the 2020-21 Webinars Tile on the Resource Board in Husky Hub.