Dear Parents/Guardians,
As summer draws near, so does the end of the school year. We are planning many things for our 8th graders and we would like to take this opportunity to remind you about the activities, expenses and deadlines.
How can my child participate in the 8th grade activities?
In order for your child to attend the 8th grade activities, he/she must be invited. All extra-curricular and end-of-the-year activities are privileges, not rights, and, as such, must be earned. Your child must be in compliance with the school eligibility criteria 30 days prior to the activity in order to participate.
The following offenses will remove your child from eligibility in an activity:
● Having an In-School Suspension (ISS) or Out of School Suspension (OSS)
How much are the 8th grade activity fees?
This year’s 8th grade fees are $235.00. The fees cover the cost of the 8th grade dance, the 8th grade class trip, the 8th grade T-shirt, the 8th grade BBQ, and the 8th grade graduation gown.
Are yearbooks still available?
Yes, at the printing of this letter, there are only 18 yearbooks left and available for sale for $50. It can be purchased with a credit card on https://www.balfour.com/student-info?smi=52970 or with cash ormoney order, to one of us only.
If I do not want my child to attend all the activities, do I have to pay $235?
No, we also have an “A la Carte” fee schedule so that you can choose which activities you’d like your child to attend. The fee for each activity is outlined in the chart on the reverse side.
If my child is unable to attend an activity, and I already paid can I get a refund?
Unfortunately, as of May 5th, 2024 if your child is unable to attend any activities that you have already paid for we are unable to refund payments, as the vendors do not provide refunds to us.
If my child is not eligible to participate in an activity, and I already paid can I get a refund?
Yes, if the school determines your child is not eligible to participate in an activity a refund check will be issued.
Who can attend the 8th graders’ activities?
Unfortunately, only Turtle Hook 8th graders are allowed to attend the events. Family members and siblings are not allowed to participate in the activities.
Do I need to wear a suit or gown for the Dance?
Dress to impress. Formal wear is not required.
What are the activities and cost?
Activity Date Time Cost
Lake Compounce (Theme & Water Park) in Connecticut*
Thursday, June 6th 2024 5:00 AM - 6:30 PM $85.00
Dance at The Marriott with LR Thursday June 20th, 2024 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM $80.00
BBQ Friday, June 21, 2024 TBA $35.00
THMS Graduation Gown (no caps) Wednesday June 26, 2024 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Students must arrive @ 12
$20.00
THMS 8th Grade senior T-Shirt* Required for trip to Lake Compounce and BBQ $15.00
Total Fees $235.00
*students must arrive at THMS at 5am, school buses will not be available
How do I pay?
Payments must be made in cash or money order. As of this letter we are no longer accepting personal checks. Money orders should be made payable to “Turtle Hook Middle School” Memo- “8th grade dues” and submitted to either Ms. Catalano or Ms. Visconti
When should I pay?
We understand that the activities are in June 2024. Unfortunately, we have to reserve and book with our vendors. All payments must be complete by May 1st, 2024.
When and where is graduation?
This year’s graduation is on Wednesday June 26, 2024 at 2:00 pm at The Uniondale High School Auditorium. Students must arrive at 12:00 pm. Guests will be allowed in starting at 1:00pm.
How many tickets do I receive for graduation?
Due to the auditorium maximum seating capacity, each student will receive 3 guest tickets for entrance to graduation. All guests including children and babies need their own ticket and due to a very large graduating class extra tickets are not available. The ceremony will be livestreamed and can be watched from anywhere on an internet connected device.
When will students receive their gown, graduation tickets and yearbook, if they purchased one?
Tickets, gowns and yearbooks (for those students that purchased one) will be distributed on Tuesday June 25th, 2024.
Is the Barbecue only food?
No, we have a variety of activities planned for the children that day. Catered BBQ lunch is provided as well as bounce houses, music, and ice cream.
If you have any questions or comments please feel free to contact us:
Cara Catalano Catherine Visconti
ccatalano@uniondaleschools.org cvisconti@uniondaleschools.org
