South Sevier Middle School
Welcome to the new SSMS Community Council Members!
Aarika Viula, chair
Kelly Cefalia, vice chair
Melissa Smith
Kecia Christensen
Nicole Porter
Josey Parsons
Payton Ashby, SSMS teacher
PaulMcCormick, school counselor
Michelle Nielson, principal
October 16, 2024
Community Council Meeting
South Sevier Middle School
3:15, conference room
Attendance
Parents: Melissa Smith, Kelly Cefaila, Porter,
School Representatives: Payton Ashby, Paul McCormick, Michelle Nielson
Excused: Aarika Viula, Josey Parsons, Kecia Christensen
Agenda
1. Introduction of council members, Excusal for those not in attendance
2. What’s been happening at SSMS
3. Council Training Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ju6TnifvGlM
4. Review 24-25 Trustlands and TSSA plans
5. Comments/Questions from Council Members
Member Nicole Porter asked for clarification of why certain undergarment types are called out by name in the school dress and grooming description. There is a chance that female students may feel singled out or embarrassed because of this. The request was made that the description be edited to reference "undergarments" in general. The council supported the change being made with the next edit of the student handbook.
Member Kelly Cefalia shared concerns about the fluidity of the north parent drop-off/pick-up area. Vehicles are not pulling forward as they should be causing a backup in the process. Principal Nielson stated that efforts would be made to help smooth things out with better communication with those using that drop-off/pick-up zone.
5. Next Meeting
December 11, 2024
3:15, SSMS Conference Room
December 11, 2024
3:15, SSMS Conference Room
Attendance
Parents: Melissa Smith, Kelly Cefaila, Nicole Porter, Aarika Viula, Josey Parsons, Kecia Christensen
School Representatives: Payton Ashby, Paul McCormick, Michelle Nielson
Agenda
1. What’s been happening at SSMS
2. Budget Update
3. SSMS PE Program Update
4. Comments/Questions from Council Members
Member Melissa Smith thanked the school for the positive experience her children have had while attending school. Both academic classes and PE classes have been positive experiences. They have enjoyed the opportunity to extend their PE type participation in explore classes that are physical/exercise-based.
Response: Principal Nielson explained that SSMS is always looking for ways to improve and provide the most effective, positive, and safe learning environment for its students. Whether in a typical classroom setting, a gym, a lab, etc, these things are of top priority.
Member Aarika Viula commented on the effectiveness of the quarterly citizenship activities. They are fun ways to motivate her own children to attend school and participate appropriately so they are eligible to attend. She asked about the activities provided to those who do not have enough citizenship points to participate.
Response: Principal Nielson explained that the activities for those who lack citizenship points are called "Citizenship Training." Students participate in discussions that help them identify WHAT caused their loss of points and HOW that can be changed or improved over the course of the next quarter. Students participate in some service-based projects and have fun with some games and team-building tasks.
Next meeting scheduled for February 5, 2025
February 5, 2025
3:15, SSMS Conference Room
Attendance
Parents: Melissa Smith, Kelly Cefaila, Nicole Porter, Aarika Viula, Josey Parsons, Kecia Christensen
School Representatives: Payton Ashby, Paul McCormick, Michelle Nielson
Agenda
1. What's Been Happening at SSMS
2. Budget Updates
3. School Safety Briefing w/Seargant Asbhy
4. Comments/Questions from Council Members
Seargant Ashby explained changes and plans for improving school safety throughout the state. He complimented SSMS on their efforts to follow new guidelines and ensure the safety of its students.
Council members were reminded that at the next meeting, the budget proposal for 25-26 would be developed. They were encouraged to bring suggestions for budget proposals.
Next meeting scheduled for March 26, 2025
March 26, 2025
Attendance
Parents: Melissa Smith, Kelly Cefaila, Nicole Porter, Aarika Viula, Josey Parsons, Kecia Christensen
School Representatives: Payton Ashby, Paul McCormick, Michelle Nielson
Agenda
1. What's Been Happening at SSMS
2. Budget Updates
3. Budget Proposals for 25-26
The council was unanimous in their decision to maintain student advocate positions and cover teacher prep periods as was done this year.
The council was also in favor of maintaining the funds to pay for online learning platforms, PBIS efforts, academic field trips for all grade levels, and teacher professional development opportunities.
The council is grateful for School Land Trust monies and is hopeful that the budget proposal for the 2025-2026 school year will be approved by local and state councils.
This is the final meeting for the school year unless there is a problem with the budget proposal being submitted.