A Big Thank You!

Thank you to everyone for your support of the Giving Tree. The charity event took place on Saturday. Over 625 needy families will have a much better Christmas because of the work we do here at Patton. Each family that was invited received a box of canned/dried food as well as a turkey or chicken for a family feast. They were also able to choose from our refurbished bikes, gifts and coats. Together, we have made a difference in the lives of others less fortunate this holiday season!

Heritage Day Volunteers Needed

Attention all 7th and 8th graders!  Please stop by the Heritage Day table today during your lunches to see what Heritage Day is all about.  The table will be located outside of the cafeteria.  We are in need of more volunteers to present to the 6th grade class on January, 31st.  Come check out the display to see how you can be a leader and contribute to this day of celebration. You can sign up at the table, or in the counseling office.

Food Drive Results

The Student Council would like to thank everyone for their generosity during this year’s Food Drive. The final total is in and we contributed more that 3,200 items!! The Boy Scouts cam on Friday and picked them all up for delivery. And the top prime times were: 6th grade, Mr Baumgardner with 169 items, 7th Grade, Mrs M. Quinn with 206 items and 8th grade, Mr. Cipollini with  188 cans! Great job everybody! Check out the photos from collection day right here.

Winter Concert Rescheduled

The Winter Choral & Orchestra Concert has been rescheduled for Wednesday, January 8. The Winter Band Concert is scheduled for Tuesday, January 14. Mark you calendars and we'll see you there!

The Giving Tree

Patton Middle School’s “Holiday Giving Tree” will be in our front lobby from December 2 through December 18. “Tis better to GIVE than to receive” is our school theme for the season. Always help those less fortunate, we need no other reason! Please support Patton Middle School’s annual December Community Service Project by donating new, unused, unwrapped gifts for people of all ages. For more information, please check out this informational flyer.

Baking Bread Program

On Friday, December 6, 2013, Charles F. Patton Middle School 6th and 7th grade students participated in the King Arthur Flour Life Skills Bread Baking Program® and learned that with a little math and science, a little baking instruction, and some good flour, they can bake delicious bread from scratch! Everyone benefitted: your “newly-inspired baker” experienced the satisfaction of helping others as students brought in over 300 loaves of bread on Monday and they were donated to Safe Harbor. Thanks!

Minute To Win It Winners

In a tie breaker held at basic last week, "The Janitors" swept up the competition winning the Overall Minute To Win It Competition for the 7th and 8th graders. The sportsmanship award goes to the "Miss Know it Alls" and The team spirit award goes to the "Neon Angels". Please see Mrs. Spisak to schedule a time for your award! At the 6th grade mixer, the Overall Award goes to the "Neon Ninjas". and the sportsmanship award goes to "The Oreos". See Mrs. Spisak for your prizes. Thank you to everyone who came out and had a GREAT time!

Food Drive

Patton's Annual Canned Food Drive is up and running - now through December 13.  All non-perishable food item donations will go to the Kennett Food Cupboard and help needy families in our community. Please remember to bring your donations into your Prime Time this week and next.

Spirit Week!

We had a great Spirit Week at Patton! Monday was pajama Day and Tuesday was an extra-awesome Super Hero Day!! Wednesday was Twin Day and Thursday is Favorite Sports Teams Day. Friday wrapped up with Color Wars Day with 8th grade wearing black, 7th wearing blue and 6th grade wearing white. Check out the great Spirit Week photos right here! Topping off the fun is the Minute To Win Event on Friday. Come to dance, come to participate, come to watch! The 6th grade mixer is from 2:30-5:00 PM and the 7th and 8th grade event is from 7-9 PM.

Patton at UHS Basketball

This Friday night, December 13 is Patton Night at the UHS Boys Basketball game.  ALL Patton students and staff are admitted to the game for free.  There is a designated Patton student section in the stands.  The Patton choir will be singing the national anthem.  There will be a Patton half court shot contest at half time of Varsity game. The JV game starts at 6pm and the Varsity game starts at 7pm.

Patton Runners!

Congratulations to Nate Talley, who was the runner-up at the Delaware Middle School Invitational. 125 runners in grades 6-8 from DE, PA and NJ competed. The 6th grade after-school Running Club also competed and placed 5 runners in the top 30. Way to go!

Student-Led Conferences

On November 25th and 26th, we will be holding our Student Led Conferences at Charles F. Patton Middle School. As a change this year, Student-Led Conferences will not be mandatory for all parents to attend. This year, all students will participate in goal-setting and reflection with their teachers by creating a portfolio of work and assessments. Click here to find out more important information and changes regarding the Student-Led Conferences this year.

Donate to No Shave November

No Shave November is going well -- the beards are growing (and itchy) -- BUT -- we need one more thing! We need those DONATIONS coming in! Just $1 for a ticket -- bring in your money today and help the teachers support their cause. Each teacher has their own can AND the cans will be outside the cafeteria at all Friday lunches! Here are some of the latest teacher photos AND a special message from Tornado Tom!

Travel Abroad Club

The 2014 Travel Abroad Club is offering a travel opportunity to all Patton Middle School students and their families. This Club has been offering summer trips for twenty years, to various countries in Europe. This summer's trip includes France and Spain. Students can travel independently or with a parent. An informational meeting for parents and students will be held on Thursday Nov.14, 2013 at 6pm in room 124. More information to come regarding itinerary!! If you would like to be added to the information email list, please contact Mrs. Ilgenfritz at cilgenfritz@ucfsd.net  This is an incredible opportunity for our students to experience other cultures and learn first-hand about European history.

No Shave November

No Shave November was a HUGE success! The final total raised was $1,223 and this amount will be donated to the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Great job everybody! Thanks to everyone who donated as well as the teachers and staff who participated. And a big thanks to Mr Rusnak for organizing the event. Because we reached our goal of $500, student names were drawn from the teacher cans today and we will see some interesting beards on Wednesday!

Mrs. Basilio's Class Skype!

Mrs. Basilio's 8th period geography class participated in a Skype session with David Katz of PlasticBank.org. David skyped from his office in British Columbia."PlasticBank's mission is to empower people in impoverished countries at the same time removing plastic ocean bound waste from the land, oceans and waterways. People harvest plastics as a currency they can exchange for tools, household items, parts & 3D printing. The overall goal is to lead the movement towards the worldwide demand for "social plastic" in everyday products. (http://plasticbank.org) The students researched PlasticBank's mission and developed questions to pose to David Katz. It was a great interactive session for both the students and David with a strong connection to our current unit of study.

Art After School

"Art After School" November Registration is open! November's projects will have the theme of "Thanksgiving, Colonial American Redware Pottery". Students will make a pie plate and a gravy boat. All pottery made at Patton is dinnerware safe as well as oven proof and dishwasher safe, so you can use it this Thanksgiving! November's session will only be three weeks long due to Thanksgiving break. Plan to meet right after school on the following afternoons:11/6, 11/7, 11/12, 11/14, 11/19 and 11/21. Pick up for parents is at the front lobby door, promptly at 4:00. Cost for the three week session is $75, complete the registration information found here and return to Mrs. Ferron in room 104 by Friday, 11/1.

Citadel Heart of Learning Award

Citadel has teamed up with the Chester County Intermediate Unit to honor our area’s most outstanding educators. Nominations are now open so nominate your favorite teacher today!

UHS Basketball Clinics!

Check out these two upcoming basketball clinics for boys and girls, sponsored by the UHS basketball programs. The UHS Girls Basketball Clinic for girls 3rd grade through 8th grade will be held on Saturday, November 16. The Skills and Drills Basketball Clinic for boys and coaches will be held at Unionville High School on November 23 for any boys in grades 2-8.

Prudential Spirit of Community

The search is on to find our top youth volunteer! If you are selected, you could receive $1,000.00, an impressive medallion, and a trip to Washington, DC next May. If you feel you've made a positive difference through a volunteer activity during the past year, please stop by the main office for further information.

Heritage Day!

Any 7th or 8th grader interested in participating in Patton's 2nd annual Heritage Day, please stop by the guidance office to sign up.  We look forward to another successful showcase of Patton's unique cultural makeup!

Sixth Grade Mixer!

There will be a 6th grade Halloween Mixer on Friday, November 1 from 2:30 to 4:30 pm. Tickets will be sold in advance outside of the cafeteria on October 22, 24 and on October 29, 30 and 31. Tickets are $8.00 in advance, $10.00 at the door! Food and drinks!! Limbo contest!! Basketball!! 50/50 raffle!! Glow sticks!! Dancing! You gotta come!! All money raised will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House to support cancer patients and their families!

Peer Tutoring Program

Peer tutoring is now being organized for the 2013-2014 school year. If you are a 7th or 8th grader and would like to work in the peer tutoring center this year, please stop in room 242 to pick up a form and find out more information.

Parent Visitation Day

This Wednesday, October 23 is Parent Visitation Day! Come experience "A Day in the Life of a Middle Schooler" with your child! We are very happy to have you visiting our classrooms. We are proud of our many teachers and support staff. Teaching is our business and we believe we do our job well. Click here for more details.

Pennsylvania Youth Survey

Later in the month of October, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) will again be administering the PAYS survey. Developed in collaboration with Pennsylvania Departments of Education, Health and Public Welfare and Liquor Control board, the survey is a scientifically validated tool designed to gather Pennsylvania youths’ knowledge, attitudes and behaviors around alcohol, tobacco, and other drug usage, violence and other problem issues. Additionally, the survey tracks risk factors that can lead to likelihood of delinquent behavior and substance abuse, along with the protective factors that can help buffer young people from risk. Chester County resources fund the PAYS.

Administered biannually since 1989 the survey captures information from students in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12. The information has proved to be an invaluable tool for communities, schools and state agencies in providing prevention resources. Through PAYS school administrators can determine specific issues facing our youth and families and direct programming to promote healthy and positive youth development.

The survey is anonymous, voluntary and confidential. No student level data is reported.The survey takes approximately a class period to accomplish. Data is reported in aggregate by grade in an expansive summary report.

Parents / Guardians desiring their child(ren) not participate in the survey are to contact the middle and/or high school respectively. The link below provides access to view the survey the students will be taking. Thank you in advance for your support of of this important matter.

http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/justice_research/5259/pennsylvania_youth_survey_for_2013/1340339

UHS Lacrosse Clinic - UPDATE

Don't forget -- the UHS boys lacrosse clinic scheduled for October 6 at the Fairgrounds has been rescheduled for next Saturday, October 12 on the turf at Unionville HS!

Minute to Win It Competition!

Save the Date! Now that you've seen what the teachers can do in a minute, let's see what you can do! The Minute to Win It competition will be held Friday, October 11. Teams of 4 to 8 will find out just how fast 60 seconds goes by. Sign up sheets will be available at lunch starting Wednesday, September 25. Form your team, come up with a catchy team name, and figure out how your team will stand out from the rest:  crazy socks, matching colors, temporary tattoos, etc...  The fun for 6th grade is from 2:30-5:00 PM and 7th and 8th graders will have their chance from 7-9 PM.  Snack will be provided and there will be prizes for overall score, team spirit, and sportsmanship. Entry is $7.00 per student and all the proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society.

Patton School Musical

Are you planning on auditioning for the musical, "The Wizard of Oz"??  If so, make sure you have your purple form WITH A PHOTO ATTACHED turned into Ms. Stump no later than this Friday! Yellow forms come with you on Tuesday to auditions.

Club Signups Monday!

Sign ups for the 2013 Fall Clubs begin Monday, September 23rd at 8 PM on Moodle and will run until Friday, September 27th. Login to Moodle right now -- use your SAM login to visit the Clubs page by clicking on the Moodle logo at the left hand side of the Patton home page. Talk to your friends then make your choice. You don't have much time! The club choices and descriptions are posted here. Any club questions, see Mrs. Robertson in the Library.

Former Student Published!

Last year's creative writing 8th graders participated in a New York Times photo essay contest. One of them, Anna Juul, had her photo selected and published. The concept was to take a photograph that represents your hometown. You can read about the project and see all of the winning photographs here. Anna's photo shows up at number 79 as you scroll through. Congratulations, Anna!

Interquest

Dear Parent and Guardians  - Please note that our Board of School Directors continues to be committed to providing students and staff with schools that are free of drugs, alcohol and weapons. This past Monday 16 September 2013, the UCFSD school board approved the use of Interquest Detection Canines for the 2013-2014 school year. This is the fourth year of using this contract service in our efforts to deter illegal activity on our middle school and high school campus. During the school year random visits will occur in our two secondary schools and student parking lot. Thank you for your continued efforts in parenting as we work together to provide a safe setting for teaching and learning.

UCFSD Directory - Urgent Message!

Urgent message for all families who want to be listed in the UCFSD directory: even if you have already submitted your information through InfoSnap, you must enter your information on the attached link! Due to an error in the directory portion of InfoSnap, we must now recreate the directory using the link here. ONLY information submitted through this link will be included in the directory, therefore, it is extremely important that you fill out this link even if you already submitted your information through InfoSnap. If you would like to be included in the directory, but have not yet submitted your information, you can do so through this link. Click on this link and enter any information that you want to be published. The deadline for submission is Monday September 23. Again, regardless of whether or not you entered your info through the InfoSnap registration on the UCF website, you MUST enter the info through this link to be included.

AT Presentation

Please plan on attending an AT Presentation for our 6th and 7th grade parents on Wednesday, September 11, 2013 at 9:15 am in the middle school auditorium to hear about the middle school AT program.   This presentation should last approximately one hour.  Our goal is to inform parents of what we look to accomplish over the year in each specific grade and all the additional opportunities we try to provide for your children.

Curriculum Night, September 12

Patton Curriculum Night for Parents (formerly known as "Open House" or "Back to School Night") is this Thursday, September 12 from 6:30-8:45 PM. We look forward to the opportunity to have you learn more about our school, meet our outstanding teachers and staff, and discover the rigorous curriculum we are proud to offer here! Click here for full details about the evening.

Curriculum Night Parking

September 12th will be a very busy evening for the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District.  In addition to the Curriculum Night at the middle school, the high school will also be hosting a home football game.  As a result, we have a plan in place for parking and perimeter security.

UHS and CFPMS have contracted with Signal 88 to have 6 officers available, in addition to district personnel, to direct parking and monitor perimeter security during the concurrent events.  There will specific entrances for each event and security for each event will direct you where to park.  Middle school traffic will enter through the main entrance by the Charles F. Patton Middle School sign on Route 82 and security will direct you where to park from there.  They will fill the South lot (main office area) first, followed by the West lot (Route 82 side), the East lot (blacktop area) and the North lot (cafeteria side and athletic fields by the access road).

Thank you for your cooperation in advance and we look forward to seeing you on September 12th!  A copy of the letter outlining the evening's agenda and time schedule will be posted on the school website on Monday.

6th Grade Team Building

The 6th graders had a great day of team-building activities on Friday, August 30! Just week into the school year, the students are already feeling at home and experiencing what it means to be part of the  Patton family.  Check out the photos right here.

Boys Running Club

All 6th grade boys are welcome to join an after-school running club, which will meet Mondays and Thursdays from 2:30 until 3:30. The first meeting will be held on Thursday, September 12, after school in the large cafeteria. There is no fee to join the club. No previous running experience is necessary, but is helpful. All you need is a desire to train to complete a 5K (3.2-mile) run at the end of the session in December. Boys may run on one and/or both days, depending on their availability. Please bring a sturdy pair of running shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather. To confirm your participation, please have your parents e-mail MJ Walter at baseballmom14@verizon.net. They will receive more details about the club.

New Bell Schedule!

Don't forget to make note of the new bell schedule for all classes this coming school year!

Art After School is Back!

"Art After School", Patton's after school art club will begin the third week of September. Information about registration will be on the web page soon!

Art Projects

The art rooms Kilns are up and running again! If you are in 7th or 8th grade and left a clay project to be fired over the summer, please pick it up in the front lobby immediately! The projects will be there for you to retrieve during the first week of school. All projects that are not claimed by Friday will be given away or thrown in the dumpster!

Wrestling Open Gym

There will be an open wrestling gym opportunity, supervised by Unionville head coach Chris Matz, every Wednesday night, at Patton Middle School, from 6-7:30pm. This is available for all ages and school districts. The club is free of charge so please take advantage of this opportunity to prepare for the upcoming season.

Honors Algebra 1 Students

Any student that will be taking Honors Algebra 1 at the middle school this coming year, needs to complete the summer packet.  This can be found on the Patton Middle School webpage under "Downloads" and is called the "6/7/8 Honors Algebra 1 Summer Packet".  If you have any questions, please email Stacy Remphrey at sremphrey@ucfsd.net.

Summer Reading

Don't forget to get started with your summer reading! Each grade level has a list of authors to guide students in their choice of summer reading. Students will be expected to read 3 books over the summer and those books are to be selected from either the Grade Level Author lists or the list “Books that speak to the Middle School Experience”. These lists can be found on our Downloads Page or by clicking here. Parents - you will be responsible for signing off on your child’s summer reading with the form provided here. For information on any given author or title, please consult our Library link to Novelist K-Adult.

PIAA Sportsmanship Award

Charles F. Patton MS is proud to accept the District 1 Sportsmanship Award for the 2012-2013 school year! This award is given to the middle school in the league that best exemplifies and demonstrates the ideals of sportsmanship throughout the year. This school is chosen by a popular vote from the coaches and AD's throughout the league. Congratulations to the athletic department, our coaches, and our awesome kids for bringing home this prestigious award!

Attention Art Students!

Mrs. Ferron's Art students who are waiting for their work to be fired may pick up clay projects in the front lobby starting on Monday, June 24th.

Final Day Assembly

We had our school-wide, final day assembly in the gymnasium on June 13. Awards were given for achievement, citizenship, service, sports and more! A huge thank you to the entire student body for being an outstanding audience, as always. Students and staff then proceeded to the buses for the big goodbye for summer! See all the photos from the final day right here.

C-Team Flash Mob?

Was that a flash mob spotted in Mrs. Ilgenfritz's Period 3 class this week? Revenge is sweet, says Mrs. Ilgenfritz who was flash-mobbed by her class back in February. This time it was even bigger with parents, grandparents, classmates, teachers AND our principal, Mr. Hoffman. Check it out right here!

Patton Supports the Relay!

The Relay for Life totals have been updated! The event raised $34,700.69 for the American Cancer Society!! And the CFPMS teams, "Patton 4 Pam", "Coach A's Angels", and "TBH" together raised over $6,000!!!! The Relay for Life event held at Unionville HS was a huge success this past Friday and Saturday. Teams from Patton MS included team TBH with students, Becca Heyman, Megan Belgam, Jillian Brislin, Sophia Detweiler, Melanie Hammond, Sophia Schenk and Liz Tamargo. Team "Patton for Pam" included Mrs Brogan, Mr AND Mrs Spisak, Mrs DiGregorio, Mrs Jordan, Mrs. Nanis, Mrs  Remphrey, Mrs. Replogle, Mr Kelley and Mr Walsh while Team "Coach A's Angels" was led by fellow staff member Mrs Allband. A special shout out to the 8th grade on contributing over $340 to the event to win TWO lip sync performances last Friday -- check out the H-Team performance here! And this bonus surprise message of support from legendary rocker Jon Bon Jovi!!

Garden Pergola

The new Patton garden pergola was officially dedicated on Monday June 10th at 4 PM. The project was a great collaboration of the Unionville High School Technology Education department and the Patton FCS program, dedicated to an outstanding person -- former Patton principal, Bruce Vosburgh. Read all about in in this great article from the Unionville Times.

Teacher For A Day

The Patton Gives Back-sponsored "Teacher for a Day" event was another huge success! Students purchased raffle tickets in order to win the chance to be their favorite teacher for a day. There were two lucky winners paired up with the more than 40 teachers who participated. Thanks to Mrs. DiGregorio and the PGB team for organizing this day and check out some photos from the event right here (more will be added this week)

Valor Bowl

On May 29th, Rebecca Pancoast was a part of the Chester County Valor Bowl. The Valor Bowl is an all-star game showcasing the best senior football players from Chester County. Proceeds from the game go to the Chester County Special Olympics. Over the last eleven years the Valor Bowl has raised more than $400,000 for Special Olympics. This year, Rebecca was honored to walk with her brother, Tom Pancoast, on the field before the game.

Olweus Anti-Bullying Survey

As was accomplished last school year, our middle school students will be taking the Olweus Anti-Bullying survey questionnaire prior to the end of the school year.  This survey is voluntary and anonymous, takes one class period and will be accomplished during Health class. The information gathered assists our bullying prevention efforts. If you do not wish to have your child take the survey, please contact Jim Fulginiti, Patton Middle School Assistant Principal via phone (610) 347-2000 x3810 or e-mail jfulginiti@ucfsd.net. If you desire to review the questionnaire, please go to http://www.obqsurvey.org and enter Username: eSampleSurvey (or  sSampleSurvey for the Spanish version) and Password: Olweus. Thank you very much for your attention and consideration of this important matter.

Cafeteria Lunch Program Info

Beginning Monday 3 June, Patton Middle School students will only be able to purchase lunch if they have money in their account or pay with cash. The purpose is to avoid having negative balances at the end of the school year. Thank you for your cooperation and attention to this important matter. If you have any questions, please contact Food Services at the District Office (610) 347-0970 x3334 or the middle school at (610) 347-2000 x3837.

The Patton "Shark Tank"

Patton Middle School had their own "Shark Tank" based on the popular TV show. Mrs. Remphrey's Honors Geometry students worked in groups to present their ideas for packaging to the "Patton Chocolate Company Board of Directors". The groups attempted to convince the board that their idea for packaging the chocolate was the most profitable for the company.  Using several different sample 3D figures they made in class, the students had to calculate surface area and volume then use them to defend their choice.  They also created mascots and sample packaging. They had to make sure their presentation was entertaining for the "sharks" too.  Coco Loco, Cyli, Genius, Choco Cone, Critter Sweets, Peace Chocolates, and the Patton Chocolates did a great job!

Presenting the product

Making the case

Getting ready

The Sharks!

One Book One Unionville

This year, Unionville High School is excited to launch a new summer reading program called One Book One Unionville. This program strives to promote student success by instituting a new academic tradition, creating a sense of belonging through shared experiences, providing opportunities for school and community interactions, and encouraging students to further reflect on citizenship and engagement. Click here to learn more!

Choral and Orchestra Concert

Parents, family and friends were treated to another outstanding concert from our choral groups and orchestra on May 15 and then from our band program on May 16 at the Unionville High School auditorium! A big thank you to all the talented students and Mrs. Leahy, Mrs. Meade, Miss Hershey and Mr. O'Rourke! Check out the photos here.

Library Book Fair!

The Library is sponsoring the Summer Reads Book Fair starting May 23rd.  It runs through May 30th with evening hours on May 29th.  Students will be able to purchase books for their summer reading. We will also take orders for the "One Book/One Unionville" title.  It is called Queen of Water and is Required reading for incoming 9th graders.  Students will also be able to purchase signed copies of books by our local author Thea Toocheck. 6th grade will be able to preview and purchase this Thursday. 7th grade will be able to preview and purchase on Friday.  8th grade comes in next week. Any questions contact Mrs. Cleveland at the library.

Career Day Registration

Career Day is coming next Friday, May 31! And registration for Career Day will begin on Thursday, May 23 at 7 PM on Moodle. Visit the Career Day page, check out the great career sessions and sign up!

Patton Kids Are Awesome!

Well, you probably knew that already. But YA author Sarah Albee thinks so, too! Albee chatted via Skype with Mr. Kelley's creative writing classes on May 7 and then gave the class a big shoutout on her own blog later in the day! She was impressed with the students depth and appreciation for the writing process as well as their ability to effectively use the technology which involved Skype, iPads, Twitter and a discussion tool called Today's Meet. In her words, "Well, these kids were awesome" and "I told them I felt like I was talking writing with college kids." You can also check out student insights from the discussion by following the class on Twitter @8grwriters.

Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl

Congratulations to our 6th grade Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl participants who placed 3rd out of 203 teams from 33 states in the America Answers Quiz Bowl. Team members will be receiving ribbons and a team trophy for a fantastic job!

Student Council Election!

Okay 8th graders -- listen up!! If you are interested in running for a Student Council position for your 9th grade class, pick a nomination form in the office TODAY!!

Special Olympics

On May 2, the CFPMS Peer Buddy Club attended the Special Olympics at Coatesville High School.  The Peer Buddies had a great time cheering on the Patton athletes as they participated in track and field events.  The Special Olympics helps all our students gain self-confidence, practice goal-setting, create friendships, and much more. Check out these photos with our Peer Buddies!

Heritage Day 2013

On April 27, sixth graders were treated to a celebration of our varied backgrounds and cultures - Heritage Day 2013! Students took part in a Heritage Day trivia game, visited student exhibits of the many countries from which our Patton students come and were entertained at our Fashion Show. This first annual event was organized by Patton Guidance counselors, Mrs. Battinieri, Mrs. McMahon and Mrs. Thacher. Students in both 7th and 8th grades created the exhibits and took part in the fashion show, which also featured Patton teachers and family members and parents as well! Here are some photos from the day's events as well as some additional photos taken by of our many talented parents, Bill Tsai!

Knowledge Bowl

Patton's Knowledge Bowl teams did an excellent job at the competition April 29. Some highlights of the day include the presentation of individual certificates to 8th grader Nicholas Yang and 6th grade Anthony DiBiaggio for having the top scores in the written round of the contest. After competing in 4 rounds with over 20 teams, and answering 240 questions,  our 7th grade team of Matt Caputo, Eric Folmar, Ryan Hastings, Kyle Lacey, David Linskens, Ethan Pan, Stewart Short, and Shuhan Yin came away with a 4th place medal. In addition, Patton's 8th grade team of Harris Avgousti, Uma Balaji, Anna Juul, Sagar Maheshwari, Jack Odom, Molly Powell, Brad Saunders, and Nicholas Yang earned a 3rd place medal. Congratulations to all of our teams for a job well done!

Patton Jazz Band

Congratulations to the Patton Jazz Band on their performance this past Friday at the West Chester Middle School Jazz Festival.  The band played very well notching the award for the best trumpet section of the night.  In addition, with his awesome saxophone solo, Jonah Peterson was named one of the best soloists of the entire festival.  Out of nine bands total, Patton was one of only two bands to receive the highest rating possible of "Superior."  Way to go Jazz Band!!! Don't believe us? Then check this out! And when you've seen that, then check this out, too!!

Earth Day Placemats

All 6th grade students helped with a community service project on April 10. Students used their team activity time to create beautiful placemats with an "Earth Day" theme. The placemats will be used at Kendal/ Crosslands to help their residents celebrate Earth Day. 300 placemats were created and will help to brighten the day of our local senior citizens. Check out some of the placemats right here.

Career Cafe

During 8th grade lunch on April 18, a second Career Cafe was hosted by our School Counselors and CCIU. Eighth grade students were invited to the Wildlife & Animal Science Career Cafe based on their results from an interest survey they took in January. Check out some photos from the session as well as the first session on April 3!

Geography Bee

Congratulations to Jack Odom who, after completing a perfect score in the preliminary rounds,  placed 7th out of 100 students in the state level of the National Geography Bee on Friday in Gettysburg. Patton is very proud of Jack's achievement at this high level of competition.

Congratulations Mr. Kelley!

Patton 8th grade English teacher Brian Kelley has advanced as a semi-finalist for the Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year award! The purpose of the Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year program is to celebrate excellence in teaching, honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the young people of Pennsylvania, and select a nominee for the National Teacher of the Year award. Good luck, Mr. Kelley!

Science Research Competetion

Congratulations to the following students for their accomplishments at the Delaware Valley Science Research Competition: Dana Homer 1st place in Zoology, Special Award: Broadcom MASTERS Paige Young, Special Award: American Society for Microbiology/Eastern PA Sagar Maheshwari, 3rd place in Environmental, Special Award:  Broadcom Masters; Nanotechnology Education Project

Art After School!

Citadel Award Nominees

Congratulations to the sixteen Patton Middle School teachers nominated for The Citadel Heart of Learning Award! The program was created by Citadel Bank in partnership with the Chester County Intermediate Unit to recognize and reward teachers in Chester County who have made a meaningful impact on their students as well as the community. Here is the complete list of the UCFSD nominees as well as some more information about the program.

UHS Band Orientation Night

Monday night, April 22 at 7 PM there will be a band orientation night for incoming 9th graders in the UHS cafeteria LGI. There will be a live Q & A with current band members about Marching Band, Jazz Band, Concert Band, Color Guard and Drum Line - and ice cream will be served! If you have any questions, see Mr. O'Rourke.

Dove Self-Esteem Workshop

All 3rd to 7th grade girls are invited to a Dove Self-Esteem Workshop to be held by the high school's Women Empowered Club this Saturday, April 20th, from 11:00 until noon in room 115 at Patton Middle School.  We will do some fun activities to show that real beauty comes from inside.  Please let us know if you're coming by sending an email to lane.allie@verizon.net.  We will also be running or walking in Run for our Sons before the workshop, so if you would like to join us for that, please send us an email or join the WEC team when you register.

Dimes to End DUCHENNE

Don't forget that the RUN FOR OUR SONS this Saturday April 20th. Even if you can't join us consider supporting Elliott and Henry and their fight to END DUCHENNE by donating your spare change in prime time. Each teacher has a DIMES TO END DUCHENNE can in their room. Your spare change could make the difference for Elliott and Henry and all of the other boys affected by this devastating and deadly disease. And, if you can’t make it, but would still like to contribute in some way, consider bidding on one of our fabulous Silent Auction items. Items will be available to bid on eBay - click here for more information.

2013 Talent Show!

The Annual Patton Talent Show was another great success this year! A nice crowd of appreciative students and parents were treated to a night of outstanding entertainment on March 8 in the middle school auditorium. A big thank you to all the student performers, the tech crew and the appreciative audiance. And a special thanks to the PTO and Mr. and Mrs. Sheppard for organizing another wonderful show this year! Missed the show? Then check out the awesome photos right here.

Science Fair Results

Congratulations to Science Fair Awardees who were recognized Tuesday evening for their accomplishments in the Chester County Science Research Competition. In Microbiology, Paige Young earned a second place ribbon, as did Dana Homer in the category of Zoology. Sagar Maheshwari won first place in the Environmental Science category and was also honored with the Excellence in Environment Science special award. All three students will represent Chester County in the Delaware Valley Science Research Competition in April. Best of luck to our Patton scientists.

HawkTV in Hershey!

The student video team of Zahra Husain, Suchi Jain, Casey Jennings and Tom Padula traveled to Hershey for the Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo and Conference (PETE&C) on Monday. They spent the day filming, taking photos, conducting interviews and then produced a 4-minute video about the conference called "Who Did You Meet at PETE&C 2013?" The video was shown to the several hundred conference participants at the final day luncheon. Check out the HawkTV web page to see the video and some photos from the day's events! All in all, the kids represented themselves and our school very, very well. Congratulate them when you see them, they should be very proud of themselves!

Congrats Charlie Brown!

Congratulations to the cast and crew of "You're A Good Man Charlie Brown" for three wonderful nights of performances, Janaury 31-February 2! And check out the great photos right here!

Items for Art Class Needed!

Attention students and parents! The art department needs metal objects for our Steampunk Sculptures and colored bottle glass for the melted ceramic pieces. Metal objects can include old keyboards, clocks, tools, gears, metal cans, nails, cameras, typewriters, piping, light bulbs, watches, phones, sewing machines, jewelry, keys, metal combs, mirrors, old kitchenware, etc. Contact Mrs. Mela or Mrs. Ferron for more information.

Course Selection News

Course selection is here for the rising 7th and 8th graders!  The course selection sheets will be coming home with your son, or daughter on Friday, February 15th.  The course selection packet will include descriptors for each core class and each special area class.  The packet will also include a course selection reflection sheet.  This is to be filled out by the student with hopes that it stimulates a conversation between the student and their parents/guardians about work ethic, interests and future planning. The course selection packet is due back to school on Friday, March 1st.  The course selection and the reflection sheet should be completed by student and signed by a parent/guardian. If your child is taking high school courses please make sure they have a special cover sheet and that it is noted what classes they are going to take. Click here if you need the 7th grade packet. If you need the 8th grade packet, click here.

Lego Robotics Meeting

Attention 6th and 7th Grade Students - Interested in Robotics? Enjoy problem solving, teamwork and creativity? Like to do research projects? Then the FIRST Lego League Robotics program may be for you! Come to an information session on Wednesday, February 27th at 7PM in the Hillendale Elementary School LGI room. Check out the First Lego League website for more information. Parents are welcome as well. the teams need volunteer coaches to make this program successful.

Speech & Debate

There will be an informational meeting on Tuesday during Basic Instruction in room 218 about the Forensics Speech and Debate Tournament. See Mrs. Schuster if you have any questions.

Course Selection Dates

Attention all 8th grade students and parents! Please take a moment to review the UHS Course Selection timeline found here. If you need a UHS Course Selection Guide, you may view one right here.

Girls on Track!

The Girls on The Track after school running program needs your help! If you can volunteer 11/2 hours after school twice a week to help girls improve their self esteem through running contact the YMCA in Kennett Square. This is a wonderful program in danger of disappearing from Patton Middle School if parents don't come to the rescue!

MLK Food Drive Success

Congratulations to everyone on a job well done in donating 1,428 cans to the MLK Food Drive! This number, combined with the rest of the UCFSD schools, gave Unionville a total 2.777 cans donated to the Kennett Food Cupboard. We fell just short in our competition with Kennett (they donated 2,911 cans) so Dr. Sanville will be buying Dr. Tomasetti breakfast at Hanks! We have helped over 650 families who, otherwise, would have been without food and this includes over 1,000 CHILDREN. Visit the MLK CommUNITY Breakfast Food Drive on Facebook for photos of the events. The MLK CommUNITY Breakfast Committee wish to sincerely thank you for your wonderful spirit, your encouragement of each other, and for your joining together to make a real difference in our Kennett Area CommUNITY! This is the Heart and the Legacy of Dr. King, in action!

8th Grade German

Attention Rising 7th to 8th graders interested in taking German at the HS during their 8th grade year. Come to this one time presentation during Basic period in the auditorium on Friday 2/1 at 1:35!

Attention Reading Olympians

There will be a short meeting after school this Wednesday, January 30 in Mrs. Steinen's classroom, room 111. The meeting will be over by 3:00 P.M. If you haven't already given Mrs. Steinen your T shirt size, please be sure to come to the meeting or stop in to see her some time this week.

Patton Night at UHS Basketball

Come to "Patton Middle School Night" at the Unionville Boys High School Basketball game against Tower Hill on Saturday, January 26th.  The JV game starts at 6pm and Varsity at 7:30pm  The Patton Vocal Ensemble will be singing the National Anthem and all Patton students and faculty are admitted free to both games. (Kids bring your Patton ID)

Patton Talent Show Tryouts

Applications for this year's Talent Show will be available on Friday, January 11 in the main office.  Or, you can print one out directly here.  The deadline to submit the application is Thursday, January 24 and tryouts will take place the week following, on January 31 and February 1 (you pick the day that works best for you) in the auditorium, immediately after school.  Please read the application guidelines carefully and make sure a parent signs it.  We are looking forward to seeing your acts!  Any questions?  Please contact Ina or Jesse Sheppard at ina@inaresearch.com or 610.459.2996.

Science Competition

Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student who plans on completing a project for the Science Research Competition should notify Mrs. Knauer or Mrs. Schuster in room 218 or via email by Thursday, January 24th. Completed forms found on the AT website should also be handed in at that time.

MLK Day Food Drive

Join us in a friendly competition between the Unionville and the Kennett school districts (as well as Superintendents Barry Tomasetti and John Sanville) for the benefit of needy community members. A Canned Food Drive is the event and students are asked to bring in non-perishable food items between now and this Friday, January 18.