There was plenty of school spirit at Mahopac Middle School this week as students came together for grade-level pep rallies to kick off this year’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program.
The celebration introduced students to the HOWLS Way, the school’s framework for building a positive school community: Honor respect, Own your actions, Work together, Lead by example and Show kindness. The expectations are designed to give students a shared understanding of the behaviors that help make the middle school a welcoming and supportive place for everyone.
Principal Anthony Muia, Assistant Principal Jessica Miller and Interim Assistant Principal Phil Caraher spoke with students about the role each person plays in creating the kind of school community they want to be part of.
“When we all work together to create a culture of respect, kindness and responsibility, we ensure that every student feels safe and valued,” Muia said.
The rallies also brought plenty of Mahopac spirit. Students were welcomed by the middle school cheerleaders and enjoyed performances by Howl N Oats, the school’s faculty jazz band. The group features Kyra Cain on bass, Joseph Seeley on drums, Heather Palkewick and Jason Zides on tenor sax, with support from injured bandmate Mike Teglasi. Koda, the school’s wolf mascot, also made an appearance to help get students into the spirit of the celebration.
While the pep rallies marked the beginning of this year’s PBIS program, the HOWLS Way is intended to extend far beyond one assembly. Students will have opportunities throughout the year to put those expectations into practice, in their classrooms, in the hallways, on the athletic fields and throughout the middle school community.
