Daily Announcements

Note: Please make sure to scroll down to see previous days' announcements so you don't miss important information. Thank you!

Tuesday, May 6

The Knox County Schools Office of Student Assistance Services is developing an application for funds under No Child Left Behind: Title IVA: The Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities Act. The goal of this Act is to ensure that all students and staff exist in school environments that are safe, drug free, and conducive to learning. We invite students, families, and community members to submit suggestions or comments related to the development of this application to Mr. Marty Iroff, KCS Office of Student Assistance Services, 801 Tipton Ave., Knoxville 37920, phone 865-573-5144 x1071, email iroffm1@k12tn.net, fax 573-5143.

Wednesday, April 30

Thursday, May 1st, will be the last day to purchase your ticket to the WVMS School of Rock's Magic Carpet Ride to High School. Don't miss the very last WVMS celebration with all your friends !!! Great Door Prizes, DJ with Dancing, Guitar Hero, Awesome Giant Inflatable Structures to Climb & Jump on, and All Your Favorite Foods. Don't be the One that misses all the Fun !!!

After Tuesday's county-wide track meet, the WVMS Boys Track Team is in first place with 78 points. Congratulations and good luck in the finals!

The WVMS Girls Track Team has qualifiers in all running events that will compete in the finals on Thursday at Karns High School. Congratulations and good luck!

Boys Track Team members: everyone who will be competing in Thursday's finals needs to see Coach Martin today. Also, members of the sprint relay teams need to have practice today until about 4:20 to improve baton exchanges. See Coach Martin with any questions.

Congratulations to our WVMS student who came in first place in the district golf tournament yesterday. Congratulations to WVMS for coming in second place! Everyone will move on to the regional tournament next week.

Due to lack of participation, there will NOT be a volleyball skills camp. If you have any questions, see Mrs. Clark. Please don't stay after school next week. However, if you are interested in getting summer volleyball camp information, please com by Mrs. Clark's room, #345 in the sixth grade wing, for the information sheets.

Student Council will meet this afternoon from 3:30-4:30.

A reminder from the library: this Friday, May 2, is the last day this year to check out books. ALL library books are due back by next Wednesday, May 7. Please be responsible and take care now of any fines or overdue books you have. Thank you!

This Thursday, May 1, is the last day the Media Center will be open for extended hours, until 5:00 pm. May 2-May 9 the library will be open regular hours, 8:00-3:45. Beginning May 12 the library is closed for inventory.

Attention Rube Goldberg participants: please do not bring your Rube Goldberg machine to school before your assigned date. There is limited space in the Lecture Hall. Only those projects assigned for that day should be on a table. If you do not know when your project is due, please check with your science teacher or Mrs. Wells. 6th grade students' projects are due today and tomorrow. Some 7th grade students are to bring theirs tomorrow also. Thursday is the rest of 7th grade, and 8th grade is not until Friday. If you have a project already in the Lecture Hall and it is not your date, please remove it as soon as possible. Also, please remember, you are to stay after school to show your project to Mrs. Wells, and then take your project home the same day.

It's time to think about next year's Student Council! The following positions are available: President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, 7th Grade Representative, 7th Grade President, 8th Grade Representative, 8th Grade President. If you are interested in applying for any of these positions, go by the office and pick up an application. Once it has been filled out you can turn it in to any of the four Student Council advisors: Mr. Wells, Ms. Fendley, Mr. Stevens, and Mrs. Maryanski. Applications need to be turned in no later than May 2--this Friday!

Monday, April 28

Anyone who tried out for the Lip Sync auditions need to come see Mr. Wells in his room at 3:30 pm this afternoon or at 8:00 am tomorrow morning.

Thursday, April 24

West Valley Wolves Girls Soccer t ryouts for fall 2008 will be held Monday, June 9, Wednesday June 11, & Tuesday June 17th. Rising 6th Graders: 6:00-7:00 pm; Rising 7th & 8th Graders: 7:15-8:30 pm @ Bearden High School Soccer Fields. Bring a #5 soccer ball, water and be prepared to play! Registration forms will be available at tryouts. Please make sure a parent attends to sign the registration form and medical release. Please come thirty (30) minutes early for registration, number assignments and warm ups. All 6th , 7th, and 8th graders from West Valley Middle School are encouraged to participate. Players should try to attend at least two (2) tryout days in order to be properly evaluated. You will not be considered for a team unless you attend at least one tryout. We would like to have enough girls to make two (2) varsity teams and an all 6th grade team if possible. Our parent volunteers this year are Jerry Gianeselli and Craig Mayfield. Tryouts will be assisted by Eric Turner, BHS soccer coach. Additional volunteer coaches are needed. There will be a Q & A time at each tryout. If you have any questions prior to tryouts or are interested in coaching, feel free to contact Jerry Gianeselli @ cheeshed@comcast.net or Craig Mayfield @ craig.a.mayfield@smithbarney.com. Let's bring the championship home to West Valley!

Monday, April 21

Attention all 7th and 8th graders applying for membership in National Junior Honor Society: In order for you to be considered for membership, your information packet must be completed and submitted on or before Tuesday, April 22 by 3:45 p.m. Seventh graders, please turn in packets to Mrs. Brumley. Eighth graders, please turn in packets to Mrs. Storms. No late packets will be accepted. If you have questions, please see Mrs. Crawford in Room 135 BEFORE Tuesday.

The last day to buy tickets for the 8th Grade End of the Year Party will be April 25th. Tickets will be sold the entire week in the morning as well in the afternoon in the 8th grade hallway. Please remember to bring your waiver form !!!

Wednesday, April 16

WVMS Library dates to note: No checkouts after Friday, April 18, if the student has a fine or overdue book. Friday, May 2, is the last day anyone can check out library books. On Wednesday, May 7, all library books are due back in the library to prepare for inventory. May 9 is the last day the library will be open to students.

A reminder to all drum club members that drum club will be on FRIDAY this week.

Tuesday, April 15

Last call for pictures for the 8th grade slideshow. Please email any pictures to Julie Kirkland at juliekirkland@bellsouth.net.

Don't forget that Lip Sync auditions are coming up soon! They will be in the Chorus room on April 23rd from 3:30-5:00. Please remember to pick up forms in the office!

Attention all 8th grade students: If you are interested in and eligible to apply for your driving permit during the summer, you need to see Mrs. Demastus in the front office to request an application. The deadline to ask for the application is Friday, May 9. If you miss this deadline, you will need to wait until school starts in the fall to request an application from your high school.

Order your pictures NOW!! Spring picture money is due to your homeroom teacher by Tuesday, April 15.

Attention 8th graders: You have the opportunity to participate in a 2-day Schooled for Success internship on May 28th and 29th, at various businesses throughout our area. During this 2-day internship you will gain valuable experience in the real world of work. For an application and/or more information, please see Mrs. Harris in the Counseling Center. The deadline to turn in completed applications is Wednesday, April 23rd.

Thanks to all the teachers and students who participated in the student-teacher volleyball games on Friday.

If you hurry, you still have time to buy a nice warm WVMS sweatshirt from Coach Comer. Still $20.00.

If you are going to Bearden and are interested in girls soccer, be aware there is a Bearden High Girls Soccer Team 2008 fall season organizational meeting in the Bearden High School cafeteria on Wednesday, April 16, at 6:30 pm. This is an important informational meeting for ALL (new and returning) interested players and parents for the Fall 2008 season. Coaches and Booster Club members will be present to discuss the upcoming year, including team conditioning, try-outs, and team building activities.

Congratulations to the WVMS girls track team. They finished tied for 3rd in the Middle School Invitational meet last night! Our next meet is Monday, April 14 at West High School.

Attention those who tried out for the West Valley Dance Team: During tryouts two weeks ago, some dance shoes were accidentally taken in the girls' locker room. They are black Padinis, size 8 1/2. Please check your stuff to see if you took them home. A $5.00 reward will be given to you upon returning them to Miss Abee. In addition, no one has claimed a pair of dance shoes that were left on the day after practice. Please check your stuff to see if you are missing them.

Attention new WVMS Dance Team members: Don't forget that our first practice is today from 3:45-6:00 downstairs in the 7th grade double rooms.

Tonight's YOKE club is the next to last club of the year! Remember all 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students who attend West Valley are invited. It's Kindergarten Night! Meet in the Lecture Hall at 7:00pm tonight for games like Duck, Duck, Goose at YOKE'S Kindergarten Night!

Attention all students signed up for Mr. Hussey's Science Festival Project: Peer Review Sessions will be extended through April 21st. Remember to come either Monday or Friday to Mr. Hussey's room (#126) in the morning from 7:30-8:00 am, or afternoon from 3:40-4:00 pm. You must attend only one Peer Review Session. Also, several students have failed to complete the Experiment portion of this project. Please see Mr. Hussey immediately if this includes you.

The WVMS School of Rock presents: "A Magic Carpet Ride to High School."
What: 8th grade End of the Year Celebration, with food, fun, inflatables, music, dancing, D.J., games, door prizes, slide show, and group photos.
When: Friday, May 2 from 6:00-9:00 pm.
Where: At WVMS
Cost: $15 per student. Tickets will be sold beginning Monday, April 14 in the 8th grade wing. Don't forget that in order to purchase a ticket you must bring back a signed permission form with your check. Please be sure your parents receive the information that you were given in homeroom!

Friday, April 11

The West Valley baseball team will play Powell tomorrow night, Saturday, at 8:30 and will play Bearden on Sunday afternoon at 3:00. Both games are at Lakeshore Park. Let's show our support by being there to cheer the team to victory.

Attention all students signed up for Mr. Hussey's Science Festival Project: Peer Review Sessions will be extended through April 21st. Remember to come either Monday or Friday to Mr. Hussey's room (#126) in the morning from 7:30-8:00 am, or afternoon 3:40-4:00 pm. You must attend only one Peer Review Session. Also, several students have failed to complete the Experiment portion of this project. Please see Mr. Hussey immediately if this includes you.

This is a reminder from Mrs. Stelling: Photographs are due next Monday. Don't forget! You may turn them in to Mrs. Stelling in G16; you'll see the photography box as you walk into her room.

Attention all 8th grade students: If you are interested and eligible to apply for your driving permit during the summer, you need to see Mrs. Demastus in the front office to request an application. The deadline to request the application is Friday, May 9. If you miss this deadline, you will need to wait until school starts in the fall to request an application from your high school.

Order your pictures now! Spring picture money is due to your homeroom teacher by Tuesday, April 15.

Tuesday, April 8

There will be NO Ensemble rehearsals the week of April 7 - 11 due to TCAP testing.

Monday, April 7

This weekend the West Valley 8th grade band went to Six Flags Music Festival in Atlanta, GA and competed in a band contest. The directors would like to congratulate the members of the band on placing 1st place in their division and 1st place overall for all middle school and junior high bands. Thanks to everyone, and congratulations!!

Congratulations to all the girls who made the 2008-09 West Valley Dance Team!

Have you ever wanted to make your own book? Maybe you've written a story you want to illustrate or you want to create your own graphic novel. Maybe you'd like to create a poetry journal, personal journal, or photo album. Now you can! Come to the library on Tuesday, April 8 th after school from 3:45-4:45. We'll learn how to make a recycled book, an accordion book, and a stand-up book. Drop by the library if you want to see examples of books we'll be making. There is no cost, BUT you must sign up in the library by April 8 th , and you must bring a glue stick to participate. See you there!

Egg Drop Participants: Meet at the stairway in front of the elevator in the 7th and 8th grade hallway at 3:45 today for egg drop if you signed up for the April 7th drop date. Yes--you must bring your own egg!

To those students participating in the Photography Contest, from Mrs. Stelling: this is your reminder that photography projects may be turned in all this week and next week. If you are a procrastinator, it's time to get in gear! Everyone, please review your guidelines. Remember to tape your paper and grading rubric to the back of your matted photo. Thanks! I'm looking forward to seeing your photo!

Attention all Junior Honor Society members: There will be a meeting this afternoon in Mrs. Crawford's room. See you there!

Wednesday, April 2

To those students participating in the Photography Contest, from Mrs. Stelling: this is your reminder that photography projects may be turned in all this week and next week. If you are a procrastinator, it's time to get in gear! Everyone, please review your guidelines. Remember to tape your paper and grading rubric to the back of your matted photo. Thanks! I'm looking forward to seeing your photo!

Book Club members: Please pick up a permission form for our final book club meetings of the year. The regular book club will have its final meeting on Tuesday, May 6, and the guys-only book club will have its final meeting on Thursday, May 8. See one of the sponsors or visit the library to pick up your permission form.

Monday, March 31

TCAPS begin next week! We'll be testing each morning from April 8 through April 11 (Tuesday-Friday). Make-ups will be 4/14 and 4/15. Be sure to get a good night's sleep and eat a healthy breakfast to help you be at your best!

Friday, March 28

The 8th grade end-of-the-year celebration is coming up soon! "A Magic Carpet Ride to High School" will be held on Monday, May 2, from 6:00-9:00 pm at WVMS. There will be plenty of fun to share with all your classmates. There will be all your favorite foods, games, inflatables, music, dancing, a DJ, and fabulous door prizes. Come for a night to remember! Tickets go on sale April 14 through April 25. Cost is $15.00 per student. (Note to parents: we are still in need of many more volunteers to make this a night to remember for all our 8th graders. Please contact Lesa Bondurant at 691-5868 if you can help.)

Thursday, March 27

Support your school by pumping gas! Gas up at Breadbox, 8480 Gleason Rd, on Thursday, April 10, from 4:00-6:00 pm. For every gallon of gas purchased, .10 will go to WVMS!

Tuesday, March 25

Congratulations to all the girls who made the 2008-09 WVMS cheerleading squad!

YOKE is having Farm Club this Tuesday night in the Lecture Hall. Wear your favorite overalls and come dressed like a farmer for Farm Club. If 25 people attend, we will put a pie in the face of one of the YOKE Folk. Spring Camp information will also be handed out. YOKE meets at 7:00pm in the Lecture Hall and is for any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student who attends West Valley Middle School.

Attention all Egg Drop participants: You MUST go by Ms. Hayes' room (room G-36 in the 7th grade wing) by Thursday, March 27 to sign up for an egg drop day. The drop dates still available are Monday, March 31; Monday, April 7, and Monday, April 14. There is a poster outside Ms. Hayes' door for you to sign up for your drop date. All materials are due to Ms. Hayes on the day you choose to drop your egg. Sign up today!

Friday, March 14

Mark your calendars now for the next PTSA program. On Monday, April 21, at 6:30 pm in the WVMS Library, Karin Botica of The College Confidant will be here to speak with you about your child's transition from middle school to high school and beyond. You will not want to miss it! Click on the PTSA link to learn more.

Thursday, March 13

Coupon books are still available! See the WVMS librarians if you are interested.

Wednesday, March 12

All egg drop participants: see Mrs. Hayes THIS WEEK to sign up for an egg drop date! Sign up sheets are on her door. You can sign up for March 31, April 7, April 14, or April 21.

Tuesday, March 11

Attention all male basketball players: If you left anything in the team room, you need to see Coach Comer to pick it up. Anything left after Spring Break will be given to Goodwill.

The Student Council meeting set for Wednesday, March 12 is cancelled.

The E-Club meeting set for Wednesday, March 12 is cancelled.

Wednesday, March 5

Attention Rube Goldberg participants: the next and last meeting for Rube Goldberg will be this Thursday, March 6, at 3:40 in Mrs. Wells' room (#326 in the 6th grade wing). If you did not come to the first meeting, you must come to this one. Information packets will be handed out at the meeting. The meeting will be over by 4:00.

Tuesday, March 4

Any girl interested in trying out for Bearden High School cheerleading, please go to the office to pick up an information flyer.

All students who turned in their Solar House blueprints need to pick those up from Mrs. Foil starting on Friday afternoon. Next optional meeting for Solar House is Wed., March 12. Come by if you have any questions. Otherwise, begin building your house! Completed house and write-up are due on April 25.

It's finally here! The Valentine's Dance will be this Friday, March 7. Tickets will be sold outside the cafeteria starting on March 5 from 7:30 am - 8:15 am. Tickets are $5.00. You will still need to turn in your permission slip with your money. Remember this is a school dance and the dress code will be reinforced.

Tuesday, February 26

Attention 8th graders: The Knox County Career Fair will be this Thursday, February 28 for all 8th graders and their parents. This year it will be held at the Knoxville Expo Center from 4:00-7:30. Please make plans to attend with your parents. See Mrs. Harris in Guidance with any questions.

The Valentines Dance will take place on Friday, March 7th. Tickets will be sold starting March 5th in the mornings outside the cafeteria.

Congratulations to the 30 girls who were selected to participate on the girls track team this year!

Coach Comer needs to see the 6th and 7th grade basketball players some time today. All basketball players need to turn their uniforms in as soon as possible.

Monday, February 25

Anyone interested in trying out for the Farragut High School cheerleading squad needs to pick up a packet in the office. There will be a mandatory parent meeting on Tuesday, March 4.

The WVMS cheerleading meeting has been rescheduled for Thursday, February 28, at 6:00pm in the library.

Attention 8th graders: The annual Knox County Career Fair is coming up on Thursday, Feb. 28, at the Knoxville Expo Center from 4:00-7:30pm. Please make plans to attend with your parents. For more information, please see Mrs. Harris in Guidance.

Science fair participants, don't forget that your projects are due to the lecture hall TODAY. The projects must be set up in the lecture hall by 8:30am as judging will begin promptly! If you have any questions, please see Mrs. Clark as soon as possible. You should bring your display board, research paper, and data log. Don't forget to put your and your partner's name on a piece of paper that you attach to the back of your board.

Roller Coaster Marbles meetings: Due to cancellation of school on Thursday, Feb. 21, there was no meeting. The second meeting is scheduled for today, Monday, Feb. 25, from 3:30-4:00 in room 136. One additional meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 28, from 3:30-4:00 in room 136. Please plan to attend one of the meetings. If you cannot, come by Ms. Tharpe's room sometime this week.

Attention: Meetings for the Rube Goldberg Project have been rescheduled. Meetings will be held on Thursday, Feb. 28 and Thursday, March 6 for ALL grade levels. All participants in this project must attend one of these meetings. Please mark your agenda. Meetings will be held in Mrs. Wells' room, #326.

It's Superhero Night at YOKE this Tuesday. Meet us in the double 7th grade rooms downstairs at 7:00. Wear your favorite superhero costume, or make a superhero up and create your own costume! We will vote on the best costumes that evening. YOKE is for anyone who attends West Valley Middle School. See you there!

Guys Book Club Members: Don't forget we will be meeting tomorrow, Tuesday, Feb. 26, in the library from 3:45-4:45 to discuss The Lightning Thief. See you then!

For any 8th graders interested in the Art program at Farragut High School, there will be an open house on Tuesday, Feb. 26, from 5:00-6:30. Come meet the art teachers, ask questions, and tour the art rooms. If you have questions, call Yvonne Kidder @ 671-0679.

Any 6th or 7th grade girl interested in trying out for next year's West Valley Dance Team needs to stop by the main office to sign up and pick up an important information sheet. A mandatory meeting will be held on Monday, March 3, from 6:00-7:00 pm in the cafeteria. You must bring a parent or guardian with you to the meeting. If you have questions, please see Miss Abee in room 132.

Any 8th grade girl interested in trying out for the Bearden High School Dance Team needs to go to the main office to pick up important information. If you have any questions, please see Miss Abee.

Tuesday, February 19

The Choral and General Music departments are having their annual magazine sale fundraiser! To participate, see a chorus or general music student for a packet. The fundraiser runs through Friday, Feb. 22.

Friday, February 15

Solar House designs are due to Mrs. Foil on Wednesday, February 20th at 3:30. The designs must be drawn to scale per the directions handed out to you. Please print your name, your partner's name, grade, and science teacher's name on the design. See you on Wednesday in room 146.

Wednesday, February 13

West Valley sweatshirts are for sale! Show your school colors at basketball games and track meets. See Coach Comer for details. Just $20.00.

Have you been thinking about getting a hoodie? We have them. Most sizes in stock, so you won't have to wait! All gray hoodies are $25.00; gray with maroon sleeves are $28.00. See Mr. Burnette in the technology lab to get yours today.

For all students signed up for Mr. Hussey's "Greenhouse Effect" Science Festival Project: informational meetings will be held on February 19, 20, & 22 at 3:40 pm in room 126. The meetings will last until 4:00 pm. Please attend!

Track tryouts are February 19, one week from today. Girls interested in trying out for track need to pick up a tryout information sheet from Coach West. If your physical is complete, please turn it in to Coach West now. All physicals must be turned in by Tuesday, February 19 in order to be eligible to try out.

To any 8th graders interested in the Art program at Farragut High School: there will be an open house on Tuesday, February 26, from 5:00-6:30. Come meet the art teachers, ask questions, and tour the art rooms. If you have questions, call Yvonne Kidder at 671-0679.

Science Festival Photography meetings will be on Tuesday, February 12 and Wednesday, February 13. Come to the one meeting that best suits your schedule. Mrs. Stelling's room is G16 in the 7th grade. The meetings will be finished by 4:00 pm.

Attention! Meetings for the Science Festival Rube Goldberg Project will be held Thursday, February 21 and Thursday, February 28 for ALL grades. All participants in this project must attend one of these meetings. Please mark your agenda for this meeting. The meeting will be held in Mrs. Wells' room, #326.

If you have turned in a Merit Member form, be sure to come to the Student Council meeting this Wednesday!

The Second Harvest food drive has been extended another week. Please bring cans of food or peanut butter and place them in the blue barrels in the hall outside the office.

Attention 8th graders: The annual Knox County Career Fair is coming up on Thursday, February 28 at the Knoxville Expo Center from 4:00-7:30. Please make plans to attend with your parents. For more information, see Mrs. Harris in Guidance.

Monday, February 11

The PTSA peanut butter drive for Second Harvest Food Bank has been EXTENDED until February 18. Please bring in jars of peanut butter or other non-perishable items and place them in the blue containers outside the office. Thank you for any contributions you can make to this food drive!

Any girl interested in trying out for the 2008-09 WVMS cheerleading squad, please sign up in the office.

Track try-outs begin on Tuesday, Feb. 19. You must have a physical on file with the coach in order to try out. See Coach West (girls) or Coach Martin (boys) for more information. Girls can check out the Girls' Track webpage by clicking on the "Student Activities" link on the WVMS homepage.

Wednesday, February 6

Attention all NJHS members: our next meeting will be held tomorrow, Thursday, Feb. 7, right after school. If you have any questions, see Mrs. Brumley in the 7th grade wing.

West Valley boys' soccer tryouts will be held on Saturday, February 9 and Saturday, February 16 at Carl Cowan Park on Northshore Drive. 6th graders should be there at 10:30 am and 7th and 8th graders should be there at 12:00 noon. You may pick up registration forms in the office.

Monday, February 4

There are Student Council merit member forms available in the office if you are interested in joining Student Council!

YOKE will start back at WVMS on Tuesday, Feb. 12. Tomorrow, Feb. 5, YOKE will be having All County Club at Second Baptist Church on Broadway. For more information, pick up an All County YOKE club flyer in the office.

All boys who were on last year's undefeated championship Boys Track team need to see Coach Martin as soon as possible in room G-10 in the 7th grade wing.

TSA is meeting this afternoon in the technology lab at 3:30. All members planning to attend the Regional Conference should attend.

Have you been thinking about getting a hoodie? We have them. Most sizes are in stock, so you won't have to wait. Gray hoodies are $25, and gray hoodies with maroon sleeves are $28. See Mr. Burnette in the technology lab to get yours today.

Friday at the WVMS 8th grade basketball recognition day, our Lady Wolves defeated the Webb Lady Spartans 31 to 25. All the 8th graders played and played well, even with a scoreless second half and poor rebounding. The team was 13 for 25 for free throws. The team's record is 16-0!! Thanks to Mrs. Basham, Miss Abee, and Mrs. Pierce for a wonderful celebration.

CBFO Volleyball registration forms for the spring 2008 season are available and can be picked up at the office. All girls from 3rd - 12th grade are eligible to participate. The deadline is March 7, 2008, at noon.

Meetings for the Science Festival's Rube Goldberg Project will be held Thursday, Feb. 21 and Thursday, Feb. 28 for ALL grades. All participants in this project must attend one of these meetings. Please mark your agenda for this meeting. Meetings will be held in Mrs. Wells' room #326.

Science Festival Photography meetins will be on Tuesday, Feb. 12 and Wednesday, Feb. 13. Come to the one meeting that best suits your schedule. Mrs. Stelling's room is G16 in the 7th grade wing. The meetings will be finished by 4:00pm.

Meetings for the Egg Drop Project for the Science Festival are Monday, Feb. 4 for 6th grade and Wednesday, Feb. 6 for 7th and 8th grades. Meetings are in Mrs. Hayes' room after school, room G36 in the 7th grade wing. If you miss your meeting, please see Mrs. Hayes for your packet of instructions for completing this project by Friday, Feb. 8.

West Valley sweatshirts are for sale. Show your school colors at basketball games and track meets. See Coach Comer for details. Just $20!

Track season is 2 weeks away! Girls interested in trying out for track need to pick up a tryout information sheet from Coach West. Physicals can be turned in anytime between now and February 19, the first day of tryouts.

The Knox County Schools Career Fair will be held on Thursday, February 28, from 4:00-7:30pm at the Knoxville Expo Center at Merchants Drive and Clinton Highway. This is for all Knox County 8th graders and their parents. See http://www.kcs.k12tn.net/events/careerfair/08/career_fair.htm for more information and a list of participants, or contact WVMS Guidance Counselor Jessica Harris at harrisj14@k12tn.net.

Attention Parents: West Valley Middle School will be hosting a career fair for the 8th grade students on February 21, 2008. If you are willing and able to volunteer your time the morning of 2/21 to discuss your career with our students, please email Tosha Jenkins (jenkinst5@k12tn.net) or Jessica Harris (harrisj14@k12tn.net) or call them at 539-5145. Thanks for your help!

Friday, February 1

You have one last chance to order a WVMS yearbook! The deadline has been extended, and payment must now be received by February 22. Visit www.smart-pay.com (use code 12147) to order. Please note that unfortunately it is too late for personalizations.

Tuesday, January 29

It's Flower Time! Get your Valentines flowers this week. You can order for a special someone, a friend, or be a secret admirer ! See your homeroom teacher for details. Fill out all the forms correctly and a flower will be on its way. This is the ONLY week we will be selling Valentines Flowers, so get them while they are available.

All boys interested in trying out for the West Valley Track team need to see Coach Martin in room G-10 in the 7th grade wing as soon as possible. Tryouts begin in just a few weeks. See Coach Martin as soon as you can.

Guys Book Club members, don't forget our meeting to discuss Pendragon is this Thursday, Jan. 31, at Barnes and Noble bookstore from 4:00-5:00pm. Please have your parents pick you up promptly at 5:00. See you there!

Pep Club members: don't forget a permission slip form to ride the Pep Bus THIS Thursday to Northwest Middle. You can pick them up from Mr. Wells. Forms must be turned in to Mr. Wells by Wednesday afternoon.

Monday, January 28

Guys-Only Book Club will meet this Thursday, January 31 to discuss Pendragon. We'll meet at Barnes and Noble bookstore from 4:00-5:00pm. Book club members, please have your parents pick you up promptly at 5:00. Thank you, and see you there!

West Valley Middle School PTSA will be collecting peanut butter during the week of February 4 for the Second Harvest Food Bank. Student members of the National Junior Honor Society will assist with curbside collection during morning drop-off. If you prefer to give a financial donation (Second Harvest can purchase 4 jars of peanut butter for $3), please send your check to Second Harvest Food Bank, 922 Delaware Ave., Knoxville, TN 37921. Write our school name in the memo section so WVMS will get credit.

Friday, January 25

The West Valley Lady Wolves defeated Whittle Springs 54-12. Go Wolves! The next game is against Karns for 1st place!

YOKE will start back at WVMS on Tuesday, February 12. Next Tuesday, February 5, YOKE will be having All County Club at Second Baptist Church on Broadway. For more information, pick up an All County YOKE club flyer in the office.

CBFO Volleyball registration forms for the spring 2008 season are available in the office. All girls from 3rd-12th grade are eligible to participate. The deadline is March 7, 2008 at noon.

Thursday, January 24

If you are interested in applying or transferring to one of Knox County's magnet schools (Beaumont, Green, Sarah Moore Greene, Vine Middle, or Austin East), please pick up an application packet in the office. Visit http://www.kcs.k12tn.net/magnet/magnet-index.htm for more information and magnet school open house dates.

Join the Environmental Club! E-Club meets each Wednesday after school in Mrs. Crowley's room, #G-26 in the 7th grade wing. Come learn how you can make a difference to our planet!

Thursday, January 17

An information meeting for the Science Festival project "Roller Coaster Marbles" will be held today, January 17, from 3:30-4:00 pm in Mrs. Tharpe's room #136.

If you would like to purchase a West Valley hoodie, we have some available. Come by the technology lab to get yours!

Congratulations to Jackson for winning this year's Geography Bee and to Jacob for being the runner-up!

Monday, January 14

It's time to get involved! If you might be interested in joining the West Valley Environmental Club come to the cafeteria any day next week after school, 1/14-1/18, to pick up an information packet. Look for Ms. Crowley, 7th grade science teacher.

Friday, January 11

Monday, December 10

Attention all students who signed up for the science fair portion of the science festival: There are two meetings scheduled for this week. You must attend one of these--it is mandatory. Come either Tuesday or Wednesday, right after school, to room #345. Please see Mrs. Clark if you have questions. You must bring your packet and your signed parent form. Remember, this is the first part of your science fair grade, so you must attend!

TSA will be meeting this afternoon from 3:30 until 5:00 in the technology lab. We will also meet Thursday afternoon from 3:30 until 4:15 to make final preparations for the dance.

It's time to get your groove on and celebrate the season at the Winter Wonderland dance. The dance is this Friday, December 14. Tickets are $5.00 and go on sale this wekk in the main hallway outside the cafeteria. You must have a signed permission form to buy a ticket. The 6th grade dance is from 4:00-5:30; the 7th and 8th grade dance is from 6:00-7:30. The Winter Wonderland dance is a semi-formal dance, so please do not wear jeans and t-shirts to the dance.

Friday, December 7

Ensemble ladies who came in for dress alterations last Thursday may pick up their finished dresses from the choir room this afternoon at 3:30pm.

Congratulations to all our Safety Poster Contest and PTSA Reflections winners!

Thursday, December 6

This Friday is Hat Day to raise money for the Angel Tree! Bring $1.00, get a sticker, and wear a hat in order to help get a gift for needy children. Bring your dollar to the main hallway Friday morning. You MUST have a sticker from Student Council in order to wear a hat!

Attention 8th graders going to Bearden High next year: If you did not fill out a yellow form for freshman chorus next year, please do so as soon as possible. See Mr. Hicks in the chorus room for a form.

The Guitar Club meeting for tomorrow will be cancelled. The next Guitar Club meeting will be next Friday, December 14th. See you then!

Friday, November 30

Last night was the opening reception for the East Tennessee Regional Art Exhibition at the Knoxville Museum of Art. Over 1000 pieces of artwork were submitted for the show from students grades 6-12 in the East Tennessee area. Of the 200 pieces of art selected for the show, 18 works of art were from West Valley. Two WVMS students received $4000 and $2000 scholarships to the Watkins College of Art and Design, among the young students to receive such scholarships. The Art Department and WVMS congratulates those students!

If you turned in a poster for the Reflections contest and were asked to make corrections, please make those corrections and bring your poster back to the office as soon as possible.

Yesterday in a great home game our Lady Wolves defeated the Halls Demons 39 to 31, remaining undefeated for the season! The next game is against the Panthers of Powell.

Wednesday, November 28

Guys Only Book Club will meet tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 29, from 3:45-4:45 in the library to discuss the book Code Orange. Please pick your child up promptly at 4:45. Looking forward to seeing everyone there!

What did you do last summer? Did you catch it on camera? The yearbook staff is looking for pictures of summer of 2007 fun. If you have a photograph of your summer fun you would like to have in the yearbook, bring the photo to Ms. Storms' room #144 or put it in Ms. Storms' box. Make sure you label the activity, the person or persons in the photo, and the name and homeroom of the person to return the photo. These photos must be turned in by Friday, November 30.

Monday, November 26

This past weekend, approximately 1000 students from across East Tennessee competed for spots in regional honor bands. We would like to recognize and congratulate the WVMS students who were accepted into the 2007 East Tennessee Band and Orchestra association's Junior Clinic Honor Bands. Three students were accepted into the Gold Band, nine into the Silver Band, and five into the Bronze Band. These students are some of the finest young musicians in East Tennessee, and we are proud that they will be representing West Valley in the honors band concert on Dec. 1st at South Doyle High School.

Plato Lab for today, November 26, 3:30-4:30 is cancelled. Also, there will be no morning Plato tutoring this week.

Tuesday, November 20

Sign-ups for the Science Festival will be Friday, December 7, at 7:30am.

Monday, November 19

Dance Team & Cheerleaders will be photographed on Tuesday, Nov. 20 (tomorrow) for the yearbook.

There will be no tutoring on Tuesday, Nov. 20 with Mr. Hussey, Mrs. Peterman, and Mrs. Miller.

It's Pajama Night at YOKE this Tuesday night. Wear your pajamas and meet us in the Lecture Hall at 7:00pm. Don't forget: if 30 kids come to YOKE, we will put a pie in the face of one of the YOKE Folk.

Nine WVMS students were chosen to participate in the ETSBOA Junior Orchestra Clinic this past weekend. Congratuations!

Thursday, November 15

The first Sports Picture Day for the yearbook will be Tuesday, November 20. These teams will be photographed: Basketball, Volleyball, Tennis, Track, Cross Country, and Cheerleaders. Be sure to wear your team shirt for the picture.

Tuesday, November 13

Didn't have time to finish that project? Been assigned a research paper on George Washington? You'll be pleased to know that starting this week the Media Center will be open for extended hours. On Mondays and Thursdays, the Media Center will be open until 5:00pm. Bring in your homework or your projects and get them done during our extended hours. Or, of course, you can use the time to check out a new book and read!

Attention West Valley Pep Club Members: Please come by a table in the main hallway from 8:00-8:20 to pick up your Pep Club t-shirt, shakers, and card. The table will be set up Wednesday. We will also be taking the Pep Bus THIS Thursday for the Farragut game. You MUST turn in your permission form to go. We will meet in the back of the school at 3:40 to load the bus. Please make sure a parent or guardian will be picking you up at West Valley at 7:00-7:15 following the game. Don't forget to wear your Spirit T-shirt! Go Wolves!

Any student interested in MATHCOUNTS, please go to Mrs. Kelly's room (room 134) this Wednesday at 3:30pm.

Friday, November 9

Basketball managers needed! If you would like to be a basketball team manager, please see Coach Comer sometime today.

Where can you find creative costumes, awesome music, and a great time? The Blast from the Past Dance! On Friday, Nov. 9, come dressed to the dance in clothing from your favorite decade. You could qualify for prizes! The grand prize winner from each dance will receive a $50.00 gift card to the mall. Permission slips have gone home. Be sure you buy your tickets ASAP. This is a popular dance, and we don't want you to miss out on the fun!

West Valley, get fired up! Next week (November 12-15) is Spirit Week! Get your ideas rolling because we are going to have 4 amazing Spirit days to get fired up for the 2007-2008 basketball season. Monday is Twin Day, Tuesday is Mismatch Day, Wednesday is Career Day, and Thursday is Maroon and Blue Day. Show some spirit!

If you are participating in the Buddy's Race this Saturday, please come by Ms. Fendley's room today or tomorrow to pick up your race number and your t-shirt. Thanks!

Want to win a $1000 US savings bond? All you have to do is create an energy saving idea that will stick. Design a sticker that will fit onto a light switch plate reminding people to turn off lights when the leave an empty room. Use the phrase, "Start a good habit that's always right, when you leave a room turn off the light." You can pick up information in the main office. Your entry must be turned in by December 7.

Guitar Club is cancelled for today, Nov. 9. See you at the next meeting on Friday, November 16.

Hoodies, hoodies, hoodies! It is time to order your West Valley hoodie. Hoodies come in adult sizes small, medium, large, and extra large. The cost for a hoodie is $25.00. This year we have a new version of the hoodie. It is grey with maroon sleeves and hood. It comes in the same sizes but costs $28.00. You can get an order form from Mr. Burnette in the technology lab. Support TSA and buy a hoodie!

Thursday, November 8

If you are participating in the Buddy's Race this Saturday, please come by Ms. Fendley's room today or tomorrow to pick up your race number and your t-shirt. Thanks!

The Guitar Club meeting for tomorrow (Friday, Nov. 9) is cancelled. The next Guitar Club meeting will be next Friday, Nov. 16. See you then!

There will be an in-school assembly at 10:00am on Monday, November 12 featuring speakers Guy Doud, former Teacher of the Year, and Senator Tim Burchett.

Thursday, November 1

Guys-only book club meets today at WVMS from 3:45-4:45pm. We will be discussing the book The Beasties by William Sleator.

In order to complete research on biomes, Mrs. Clark's 6th grade class (team 6-1) has been participating in a modified Flat Stanley project. Instead of Flat Stanley who simply travels around the world, we have Biome Bob who travels and collects scientific information about the area he visits. One Biome Bob was lucky enough to travel to Washington, D.C. There he met Senator Thomas Carper who was kind enough to fly a flag in honor of our 6th grade class over the United States Capital! The flag was flown on October 1 and has now been sent to West Valley to be put on display.

Monday, October 29

Tomorrow is Red Ribbon Day! Red Ribbon Day is observed to remind students to remain drug free and live healthy lives. We have several activities planned for all our students. Please make sure to wear red tomorrow to help celebrate Red Ribbon Day!

The annual Fall Frenzy is coming up this Friday, November 2! Fall Frenzy is an in-school dance with the "Party Boys" DJ. This is PTSA's one and only major fundraiser. There is a $10 donation requested to attend the Frenzy and a $20 donation requested to qualify for door prize drawings. Door prizes include Dollywood tickets, Black Bear Jamboree tickets, Ober Gatlinburg passes, UT Lady Vols tickets, Ice Bear tickets, Regal movie passes, Blockbuster gift cards, Chick-fil-a and Burger King coupons, and more. Last year the money raised was used to purchase Smart Boards, computer memory, a laptop with two projectors, and more, all for the teachers and students at WVMS. Please support our fundraiser!

Friday, October 19

Everyone have a happy, safe, and restful Fall Break, October 22-26! See you on Monday, October 29.

Letters have been sent home this week through the mail regarding information on ordering yearbooks. Check your mail this week and order your 2007-08 West Valley yearbook today!

Mrs. Rodwell and Mrs. Miller, Mrs. Peterman, and Mr. Hussey offer study sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week. Please click on the "Academics" link here or from the home page to learn about the times available to students.

We will be celebrating Red Ribbon Day right after fall break. Red Ribbon Day is observed to remind students to remain drug free and live healthy lives. We have several activities lined up for Tuesday, October 30 for all our students. Please make sure to wear red to celebrate next Tuesday 10/30/07.

The next meeting of the regular book club will be Thursday, November 15, from 4:00-5:00 off campus. Pick up a permission form from Mrs. Roberts, Mrs. Stoermer, or Mrs. Suffridge. We are reading Princess Academy, by Shannon Hale.

The next meeting of the guys-only book club will be Thursday, November 1 from 3:45-4:45 in the library. Pick up a permission form from Mrs. Roberts or Mr. Wells. We are reading The Beasties, by William Sleator.

Wednesday, October 10

The cheerleaders are sponsoring a fall Barn Dance on Friday, October 12th. The $5.00 tickets are on sale in front of the cafeteria every morning. Join in the fun and buy a ticket!

Attention all 6th, 7th, and 8th graders: are you interested in learning how to drum in a World Music Drumming Circle? This ensemble will perform on tubanos, hand drums, bells and other percussion instruments. We will play unique multi-cultural pieces in combination with the West Valley choirs as well as on their own. Ms. Yeager will be starting a World Music Drumming Club next Thursday, October 11, from 3:45-4:30 in the general music room. There is only room for 30 people, so if you are interested, please sign up in the chorus room ASAP. The sign up sheet will be located on Ms. Yeager's door.

The Fall Clothing Drive is October 8th-12th. The National Junior Honor Society will provide curbside collection service each morning, weather permitting. Collection bins will also be available by the front office. Please donate gently used clothing, sizes 2 toddler to adult.

Monday, October 8

The first PTSA General Meeting of the year will be held on Monday, October 15, at 6:30 in the Lecture Hall. We will have an informative demonstration on how to use the WVMS website and Parent Portal/Teacher Gradebook. We will also be voting on the budget. See you there!

Wednesday, October 3

The PTSA Fall Clothing Drive is October 8-12. The National Junior Honor Society will provide curbside collection service each morning, weather permitting. Collection bins will also be available by the front office. Please donate gently used clothing sizes 2T to adult.

Tuesday, October 2

WVMS guitar players please remember that the Guitar Club meets every Friday morning in the chorus room. Also please note that the meetings now start at 7:30, not 7:45. You can join Guitar Club at any time. Anyone interested in the guitar, electric bass or similar instruments is invited to join! You can be a complete beginner or an advanced player and still be a part of the Guitar Club! Please bring your guitars, but no amps please. If you are into the guitar, Guitar Club is the place for you! See Mr. Charlie Hicks with questions.

On Wednesday, Coach Comer will have an open gym from 3:30-5:00. You must have a signed permission slip before you can participate. See Coach Comer for a permission slip.

Hoops for Heart 3 on 3 basketball tournament is coming on October 16th. See Coach Comer for a permission slip and for more details.

Don't forget the FCA party with Yoke on Friday, October 5, from 3:30-5:30pm. We will meet in the gym for a time of games, music, snacks, and devotion. You must have a permission slip to attend. Please see Coach Comer to turn in your permission slip by Thursday. Invite your friends!

Last week at Melton Hill Park, the West Valley Cross Country team tamed The Beast and won both the girls and boys team competitions. The Beast is the steepest, longest hill on the course and one of the toughest challenges the runners face all season. Congratulations to everyone who made it up alive! Eight West Valley boys and five West Valley girls finished in the top 40. Wish all your WVMS runners good luck as they go after the county championship title on Thursday at Victor Ashe Park!

WVMS PTSA Fall Clothing Drive will be October 8-12. A drop off area will be outside each morning, or you may bring clothing to collection boxes inside the building. This is a great opportunity to clear out your closets and help others at the same time!

Monday, October 1

Hoops for Heart 3 on 3 basketball tournament is coming on October 16th. See Coach Comer for a permission slip and for more details.

The FCA social is this Friday after school. Come join the fun, fellowship, and food. See Coach Comer for a permission slip and more details.

Mrs. Rodwell will have study sessions on Wednesday and Thursday this week. The sessions will be from 3:30 until 5:00. This is an opportunity for you to make up assignments or take tests that you have missed. You may just come to get help with completing assignments that you may not quite understand.

Monday, September 24

We would like to congratulate both our boys and girls volleyball teams that finished their tournament Thursday night. The boys finished 4th, and the girls finished 1st. They are the new Knox County champions, defeating Farragut. Way to go West Valley!

It's TACKY NIGHT at YOKE this week. Dress as tacky as you can, and you may end up winning a prize. YOKE meets in the lecture hall from 7:00-8:00 and is for all 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students at West Valley. If there are 25 students at YOKE this week, we will put a pie in the face of the YOKE Folk of your choice. So bring a friend and come to YOKE's tacky night!

Friday, September 21

Don't forget that our new Guys Only Book Club will meet after school on Tuesday, September 25, from 3:45-4:45 in the library. Please be here to pick your child up promptly at 4:45. Looking forward to seeing everyone for a great time of fun and book discussion!

Thursday, September 20

Coupon Books go on sale today! Each student received three coupon books today. If you need more books, please come by the office or the library. Students who sell all three of their original books by Monday, Sept. 24 will be placed into a drawing for a brand-new Ipod Video Nano!

Tuesday, September 18

WVMS regular book club will meet tomorrow, Wednesday, Sept. 19. This is the regular book club, not the guys-only club. We will discuss The River Between Us by Richard Peck. The meeting is in the library from 3:45-4:45pm. Parents, please pick your students up promptly at 4:45pm. Thank you!

The 2007-2008 PTSA budget has been set and will be voted on at the next PTSA General Meeting.

Monday, September 17

Girls interested in trying out for basketball, please meet with Coach Goddard on Thursday, Sept. 20, at 8:20am in the gym for a very short meeting. If you have any questions, please see Coach Goddard.

YOKE is back! YOKE club will meet in the lecture hall from 7:00-8:00pm this Tuesday. It's relay night, so come ready to have lots of fun. Bring some friends! Everyone who comes to YOKE Tuesday night will be entered into a drawing for a free YOKE shirt. YOKE is for any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student who attends West Valley Middle School.

Today is Constitution Day. Our Constitution was signed on this date in 1787 and went into effect in June, 1788. The short and dignified Preamble explains the goals of our government: "We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."

Friday, September 14

Attention National Junior Honor Society members: we will have our first official meeting of the 2007-2008 school year next Monday, September 17, at 3:45 in Mrs. Crawford's room. The meeting will last until 4:15. Please make plans to stay after school to attend this important meeting. We will nominate officers and discuss our goals for the coming year. See you Monday!

The results of the Student Council election will be posted outside the library on Monday, September 17th.

Wednesday, September 12

West Valley Cross Country runners mowed down the field yesterday at Maryville College. Over treacherous trails through the woods, both the boys and girls teams won handily. Way to go everyone!

Monday, September 10

Attention National Junior Honor Society members: Mrs. Crawford, Ms. Parham, and Mrs. Storms would like to thank everyone who came to the kick-off cookout yesterday at Mrs. Crawford's house. If you weren't able to be there, we missed you! In honor of all those impaced by the events of 9/11/01, all National Junior Honor Society members are wearing red, white, and blue to school tomorrow. If you would like to join us in commemorating 9/11, we invite the entire WVMS community to wear red, white, and blue tomorrow. Let's show our patriotic pride in our country.

Guitar Club members: The WVMS Guitar Club will have its first meeting next Friday, Aug. 31, at 7:45am in the chorus room. Anyone interested in the guitar, electric bass or similar instruments are invited to join! You can be a complete beginner or an advanced player and still be a part of the guitar club! Please bring your guitars, but no amps please. If you are into the guitar, Guitar Club is the place for you!

There will be an informational meeting for the 2007-2008 WVMS Golf Team this upcoming September 18th in the WVMS Library. The meeting will begin at 6:30pm. Please come by the front office this week to sign up for the meeting and to pick up additional information about this meeting.

Friday, September 7

Several WVMS art students had work accepted into the Student Art Exhibit at the Tennessee Valley Fair. This juried exhibit is artwork from the 2006-2007 school year. Each art teacher in the nine county region can submit 30 pieces of artwork, and 200 pieces are selected. We are very proud of the 22 WVMS students who have had pieces chosen for the show, including two with 1st place honors, two with 2nd place honors, two with 3rd place honors, and two with honorable mentions.

Thursday, September 6

Picture Day is tomorrow! Dress your best for your yearbook picture, and don't forget that if you want to buy pictures, the money is due tomorrow.

Wednesday, September 5

Don't forget Picture Day is this Friday, Sept. 7. This is your yearbook picture, so dress your best! If you want to buy your pictures, the money is due on Friday.

Open Gym will be starting soon. Everyone must have a permission slip and proof of insurance before you can participate. See Coach Comer for these forms.

The West Valley Boys and Girls Cross Country teams had their first meet of the season on Tuesday at Victor Ashe Park. It was an awesome start for both teams! The girls team finished first out of 19 teams and had one of the best finishes for any girls team to ever run for West Valley! The 1st overall winner is from WVMS, and six other members finished in the top 40 out of 255 runners. The boys were equally impressive finishing first out of 18 teams. The first overall winner is from WVMS, and seven other members finished in the top 40 out of 279 runners. Congratulations to all of our West Valley runners!

Friday, August 31

Teens for Christ will meet Tuesday morning at 7:45. Come join the fellowship and fun. Everyone is welcome. See Coach Comer for more details.

If you were not able to attend either of the information meetings about the WVMS book clubs (traditional or guys-only), you are still welcome to join! Please see Mrs. Roberts in the library for a permission form and information.

Thursday, August 30

If you signed up to be a part of the WVMS TV crew or to be an anchor and did not come to the meeting yesterday, you need to come by the technology lab and check the posted schedule.

Congratulations to all of the students who made the girls and boys volleyball teams. There is a mandatory after school meeting for the new members today in Mrs. Clark's room, #345, until 4:30. Please make arrangements to attend this important meeting.

Attention Dads! We need help with the morning traffic control system we're putting into place at West Valley. Volunteers are needed who can help outside the school from 7:45-8:15 each morning. If you are available any mornings, please call Mark Steimer at 531-9915(home) or 556-2945(cell).

Wednesday, August 29

Do you want to be a Homeroom or Team Representative? Remember to pick up packets from Mr. Wells in Rm. #340. The packets are to be completed and returned to Mr. Wells by Thursday, August 30. If elected, you will officially become a member of Student Council.

Guitar Club: The West Valley Middle School Guitar Club will have its first meeting next Friday, August 31, at 7:45am in the chorus room. Anyone interested in the guitar, electric bass or similar instruments are invited to join! You can be a complete beginner or an advanced player and still be part of the guitar club! Please bring your guitars, but no amps please. If you are into the guitar, guitar club is the place for you! See Mr. Hicks or Mrs. Yeager for more information.

The Technology Student Association, TSA, will have an organizational meeting on Tuesday, September 4, in the technology lab. TSA is a club for students interested in competing in events using technology. Some events include building CO2 dragsters, boats, and towers. There are team events for making videos, web sites, and computer games. Come see if TSA is for you!

Attention all boys and girls interested in trying out for the West Valley volleyball team: Yes, you heard right, we have both and boys and a girls team. Tryouts will be held next week. Girls will try out Monday and Tuesday, August 27th and 28th, while the boys will try out Wednesday, August 29. Tryouts are from 3:45-4:30pm in the gym. In order to try out, you must pick up a permission form from the office, get it signed by your parents, and bring it back the day of try outs. No form means you don't try out. Please see Mrs. Clark, room 345, for more details.

Tuesday, August 28

School Picture Day will be Friday, September 7

Monday, August 27

Open Houses
6th grade: Monday, August 27 at 6:30
7th grade: Tuesday, Augus 28 at 6:30
8th grade: Tuesday, September 4 at 6:30

Book Clubs! Book Clubs! Book Clubs!
Wednesday, August 29 will be the informational meeting for our regular WVMS book club. It will be held right after school in the library until 4:15. We'll discuss the club and announce our first book to read. Thursday, August 30 will be the informational meeting for our brand-new Guys Only Book Club. This meeting will also be in the library right after school until 4:15. We'll make plans for the first meeting and announce our first book to read.

Friday, August 24

Are you ready for your voice to be heard? Are you ready to develop your leadership skills? Incoming 6th graders, here is your chance to get involved. Student Council is in the process of rebuilding. We are in search of West Valley's best. Elections will be held to recruit 6th, 7th, and 8th graders who will be dedicated to school and community service projects. In order to be either a homeroom or team Representative, or a Student Council Executive Board officer, you must see Mr. Wells in room #340 to pick up an election packet. Packets will be given out beginning Monday, August 27th. They will be due by Thursday, August 30.

Thursday, August 23

The Photography and Filmmaking club will meet in Ms. Wedekind's art room on Monday, August 27, from 3:30 until 4:30. You must bring a signed parent permission slip if you want to participate in the Line Student Audio-Visual Festival this year. See Ms. Wedekind if you need a form or more information about The Line.

Wednesday, August 22

Attention all 7th and 8th grade chorus members! We will be having ENSEMBLE auditions next Tuesday morning, August 28, from 7:30-8:15am, and also on Thursday afternoon, August 30, from 3:40-4:30pm Ensemble is the advanced choral ensemble at West Valley. We sing many concerts here at school as well as throughout the community and the state. Listen for more details in your chorus classes this week.

Hey kids, don't forget to joint the WVMS PTSA soon. The top two classes in each grade that sell the most memberships will be rewarded with a TCBY party. And remember, each student who joins the PTSA will get into the Membership Dance free on Friday, August 24th, and at the dance each PTSA student member will get a free popcorn and soda! So remind your parents that there's still time to join the WVMS PTSA!

Listen up cross country runners! Because of the dance on Friday, all 6th graders who are running cross country should come to practice on Thursday instead of Friday. All 7th and 8th graders are still practicing on Friday. You'll have plenty of time to put on your dancin' shoes after practice.

WVMS baseball tryouts for all grades will be August 22nd and 23rd at Bearden High School's baseball field. Registration begins at 4:30pm. The tryout will start at 5:00pm and end at approximately 8:00pm. There are flyers in the office and posters throughout the school.