8th grade art students use paint and textiles to express their artistic vision.

Principal Update

Dear Coal Ridge Middle School Community,

I hope this message finds you well. I’m thrilled to share that we’ve had a fantastic week here at Coal Ridge Middle School! Our students have been engaged in their learning, and it’s been wonderful to see their enthusiasm and dedication shine through in all their activities.

As we look ahead, I am excited to announce that we are gearing up for our upcoming band and choir concerts. These events are always a highlight of our school year, showcasing the incredible talent and hard work of our students. Our music directors and students have been rehearsing diligently to bring you performances that promise to be both entertaining and inspiring.

Please mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the musical achievements of our students. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support our young musicians and enjoy an evening of music with the entire school community.

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school. Your partnership is invaluable to us, and we are grateful for the positive impact you have on our students’ educational journey.

Wishing you a wonderful weekend ahead!

Warm regards,

Natalee Swan, Principal

Parent Corner: Age Appropriate Behaviors and How to Respond

Middle schoolers go through physical and emotional developmental changes, which can lead to behaviors that may seem difficult but are normal for their age. Here are some challenging yet age-appropriate behaviors in middle school students:

Mood Swings & Emotional Outbursts

• Why it happens: Hormonal changes, brain development, and increased stress (social and academic pressures).
• What’s normal: One moment they’re happy, the next they’re frustrated or withdrawn. They may react strongly to things that seem minor.
• How to respond: Teach emotional regulation skills and provide a safe space for them to express themselves.

Pushing Boundaries & Testing Rules

• Why it happens: They’re developing independence and a sense of identity.
• What’s normal: Talking back, questioning rules, or pushing limits with teachers and parents.
• How to respond: Set clear but fair boundaries, and explain why rules exist instead of just enforcing them. Maintain consistency with consequences when the child crosses the clear boundary.

Peer Pressure & Desire to Fit In

• Why it happens: They seek social belonging and validation from peers.
• What’s normal: Changing their behavior, interests, or clothing to match their friends. They may also experiment with risky behaviors like lying or breaking small rules to gain approval.
• How to respond: Encourage healthy friendships and critical thinking about peer influence. Help them build self-confidence to stand up for themselves.

Project Launch Middle School

Coal Ridge Middle School will host Project Launch Middle School from June 2 to June 26, from 7:45 pm. to 1:45 PM. This free program is designed to support students who need additional help in reading, writing, and math.

EPIC At Home Reading Challenge

We are starting our EPIC At-Home Reading Challenge. Students are encouraged to read at home for at least 20 minutes, five days a week, totaling 100 minutes, to participate in a weekly book drawing. To enter, students must complete their reading log and have a parent sign it. On Fridays, students will exchange their logs with their advisory teacher. Each completed log is entered into a raffle, with one winner per grade announced on Monday. Winners can then choose a free book as their prize.

Free and Reduced Fees

Families needing financial help reducing or eliminating class fees are encouraged to complete the Free & Reduced Fees Application. This benefits your family and supports our school in terms of funding, staffing, and reduced fees for activities. Remember to renew this application annually for access to various benefits.

Apply for free & reduced fees today to take advantage of these opportunities!

Lunch Menu

The monthly Lunch Menu is available at LINQCONNECT. This online system allows you to filter for allergens and view the Breakfast Menu. In the upper left-hand corner, you can change between breakfast and lunch.

Save the Date!

March 11 – 6th/7th/8th Grade Band Concert

March 17-21 Spring Break

Weekly Events

Monday, March 3

GSA Club – 3:00pm – 4:15pm

Homework Club 3:0pm – 4:15pm

Musical Rehearsal 3:00pm – 4:15pm

Wrestling Meet Mead @ CRMS MS 3:30pm

Tuesday, March 4

AAA Math Program 3:00pm – 4:15pm

Wrestling Practice 3:00pm 4:30pm

Musical Rehearsal 3:00pm – 4:15pm

Garden Club 3:00pm – 4:15pm

Wednesday, March 5

PLC Late Start – School Starts at 10:15am Buses run 2.5 hours later

AAA Math Program 3:00pm – 4:15pm

Card & Game Club 3:00pm – 4:15pm

Homework Club 3:00pm – 4:15pm

Art Club 3:00pm – 4:15pm

Wrestling Practice 3:00pm – 4:30pm

Choir Rehearsal 3:00pm – 4:15pm

Thursday, March 6

Wrestling Practice 3:00pm – 4:30pm

NJHS Campus Clean up 3:00pm – 4:15pm

6th Grade Choir Concert 6:00pm – 7:00pm

7th/8th Grade Choir Concert 7:00pm – 8:00pm

Friday, March 7

6th Grade Wrestling Tournament @ Mead HS 4:00pm

Saturday, March 8

7th/8th Grade Wrestling Tournament @ Mead HS 8:00am

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