News & Announcements

Unfortunately, on September 25th we were unable to hold our scheduled SLT and PTA Executive Board elections due to a lack of parent turnout. Your participation is vital to shaping our school community, and we strongly encourage you to attend the rescheduled election night.

New Election Date:
October 15th
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Executive Board Positions Open for Election:
President
-Leads all PTA meetings, represents parents on the School Leadership Team (SLT) and Presidents’ Council, appoints committee chairs, and encourages inclusive family engagement.

Vice President
-Assists the President, supports PTA functions, and helps lead initiatives throughout the school year.

Secretary
-Takes meeting minutes, maintains PTA records, manages correspondence, and helps maintain compliance with DOE requirements.

Treasurer
-Manages PTA finances, prepares financial reports, and ensures all financial activity follows PTA guidelines.

Let your voice be heard and help make a difference in our school. We look forward to seeing you there!

This year, the election will be held in conjunction with our Family Cook Night event and will take place prior to the start of the evening’s activities. We encourage all members to attend, participate in the election, and stay for a fun and engaging night with our school community.

Join Us for Family Cook Night!
Monday, October 15th
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
MLFA Campus

We’re excited to invite all middle school families to our Family Cook Night! Come out for an evening of food, fun, and community as we cook together and enjoy some delicious dishes.

Let’s make it a night to remember — everyone is welcome and encouraged to join. Come show your support and connect with other MLFA families!

Dear Parents & Guardians,

Reminder!

"There are two types of people in this world, those who complain and point fingers about everything and do nothing. Then there are those who complain and find a way to participate in finding a resolution to those complaints. Which one are you?"
- ANONYMOUS

JOIN THE TEAM AND HELP MAKE MLFA and EAST FLATBUSH A BETTER COMMUNITY!

This is a reminder that PTA/SLT Elections will be held tomorrow, Thursday, September 25th, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM, in person at the MLFA Campus.
This event will take place in person, and we strongly encourage all parents and guardians to attend.

These elections are a vital part of our school community. Your vote helps select the parent representatives who will:
• Advocate for student and family needs
• Collaborate with school staff on key decisions
• Help plan events, fundraisers, and academic initiatives
• Strengthen communication between home and school
Whether you’re interested in running for a position or simply want to cast your vote, your presence matters. Let's work together to make this school year the best it can be!
Your participation is important in helping shape the future of our school community.

Attached below PTA Executive Board Nominees and their campaign pitch for this election:

•Latonia Tripp
As a female plumber, I'm not only a connector of pipe but also people. My passion for life shine through in everything I do. I look forward to using my light to help our community to bring back the Village Mindset in order to increase the quality of like at our school!

•Robin Gibson-Simms
Middle school is where kids start testing limits, finding their voice, and figuring out who they are, and I want the PTA to meet them right there. I’m running because I believe the PTA can be more than the traditional bake sales. It can be a space where parents and staff team up to create events, programs, and conversations that actually impact our kids’ daily lives.
Personally, I am the mother of a teen and a tween. That in itself shows grit!
Professionally, I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of Studio Health P.C., a telehealth mental health practice that focuses on supporting adolescents and young adults through life’s toughest transitions. I also founded Xochiq Inc, a nonprofit that mentors girls and helps them develop confidence, leadership, and resilience. These roles have taught me how to turn ideas into action, bring people together, and create safe, empowering spaces for growth, skills that I would bring to MLFA's PTA.
At the heart of it, I want to help create a space where every student feels seen, supported, and challenged to rise to their potential.
If you want fresh ideas and follow-through I would be honored to earn your vote.
-Robin Gibson-Simms

•Termaine Bryant
Good day, parents, teachers, and staff of MLFA Middle School,
I’m Ms. Termaine Bryant, and I’m running for PTA President. As an active parent and member of our school community, I believe in collaboration and commitment to our students’ success.
My goals as PTA President include:
- Increasing family involvement with engaging events.
- Supporting teachers with essential resources.
- Enhancing communication between the school and families.
- Advocating for students’ academic and emotional needs.
I believe leadership is about service—being present and responsive. I aim to ensure every parent feels welcome and heard.
Together, we can strengthen our school community. I humbly ask for your support.
ort and your vote.
Thank you for believing in MLFA and me,
Ms. Termaine Bryant

•Nisa Prime
Hello everyone, my name is Nisa Prime. I reside in this district 18 community for the past 10 years. During this time I have observed the need for a greater school and community partnership.
I am the standing PTA treasurer for the school 2024/2025. Currently am running for the PTA Secretary for school year 2025/2026. I am thrilled to be a part of the PTA Executive board. Serving on the PTA e- board and working alongside everyone to make the school better, is exciting and fulfilling.
The amazing work the PTA does for the students and school has been witnessed. I have contributed my energy and expertise towards us achieving some major goals this school year. I have played leading roles in fundraisers, community development and partnerships events and managing the PTA finances.
If I am elected to be the PTA secretary my focus this year will be on strengthening parent involvement, improving communication, and supporting teachers and students.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Don't forget!
MLFA’s Back-to-School Block Party is happening this Saturday, September 27th from 12 PM to 4 PM on 53rd Street between Winthrop Street and Remsen Ave.
Bring the kids, friends, and family for an afternoon of fun, food, music, and community celebration as we kick off the new school year!
We can't wait to see you there!

Distraction-Free Learning Policy for Internet-Enabled Personal Devices

Dear Families,

In alignment with New York State legislation enacted by Governor Kathy Hochul and Chancellor’s
Regulation A-413, all public schools are now required to implement a Distraction-Free Learning Policy that limits student access to internet-enabled personal devices—including cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, and similar technology—during the instructional day.

Here at MLFA, we are committed to fostering a focused, safe, and engaging academic environment for all learners. Beginning September 4th 2025, students will no longer be permitted to access or store internet-enabled devices in their bookbags or on their person during the school day.

Definitions:
● Personal Internet-enabled Electronic Devices: Includes cell phones, smart watches, tablets, laptops, and portable music/entertainment systems.
● School Day: From the time a student enters the school building until dismissal, including lunch and recess.
● School Grounds: All areas within the school building and outdoor spaces under school supervision.

Collection and Storage Procedures

To ensure compliance and support of a distraction-free school experience:
● Upon arrival, students must turn off all personal internet-enabled devices.
● Devices will be stored in designated collection bins.
● Devices will be returned to students at dismissal.
● Students who arrive late or leave early will follow check-in/check-out protocols with designated staff.
● Use of personal electronic devices is prohibited during instructional time, lunch, recess, and transitions.
● Personal electronic devices may not be used in bathrooms, or during emergency drills.
● The school is not responsible for any lost, damaged, or stolen devices that have NOT been submitted for collection.

Communication with Families:
● Parents/guardians should contact the main office Ms. Purvis or Mr. McCammon
(718-773-7343) in case of emergencies.
● Students will not be permitted to use personal devices to communicate during the school day.
● Students may also request permission to use the main office phone in emergencies.
● The school will utilize the NYC DOE Messenger/Jupiter to communicate information to parents or guardians in case of emergency. Please ensure that you have an active NYCSA account. If you need support in creating one, please contact Parent Coordinator Claude McCammon)

Authorized Use Exceptions Students may only use personal devices during the instructional day when:
● Required by a student’s IEP or 504 Plan (requires signed documentation from a medical provider)
● Needed for medically documented reasons (example: diabetes monitoring: requires signed documentation from a medical provider).
● Approved for translation or caregiving needs.
● Please contact Assistant Principal Bell or Parent Coordinator Claude McCammon in writing to request an exception due to one of the above reasons the process for approval may take up to 14 business days.
Violations & Consequences (Aligned to Chancellor’s Regulation A-413)
Students found with an unauthorized internet-enabled device will face the following progressive consequences:
● 1st Offense: Device held in the main office and returned to the student at dismissal.
● 2nd Offense: Parent/guardian must retrieve the device from school.
● 3rd Offense and beyond: Meeting with school leadership. The item will not be allowed in school. **Additional interventions may apply based on the NYC DOE Discipline Code.

Use of Devices Outside Bell-to-Bell Instruction Internet-enabled personal devices may be used at the following times only:
● Before School: 7:30-8:00AM
● After School: At 2:40PM for students who are NOT in Afterschool and at 5:00PM for students who are attending Afterschool activities.
● School-Sponsored Activities: Field Trips Policy Review and Notification:
● This policy will be reviewed annually with the School Leadership Team (SLT).
● It will be communicated to scholars, staff, and families by October 31st each school year.
● The policy will be posted on the school’s website and included in the family handbook.

Dear Middle School Families,

Welcome to a brand new school year! We’re thrilled to have you and your child as part of our school community, and we’re kicking things off with a powerful theme: Leveling Up: Unlocking our academic power.

This year is all about growth—academically, socially, and personally. We’re challenging our students to level up in their learning, their leadership, and their confidence. And we know that when families and schools work together, amazing things happen.

We're challenging every student to rise to new heights—academically, socially, and personally. Just like in a game, every level brings new challenges, new skills, and new rewards. At the heart of this journey is academic excellence. Whether it's mastering math, diving into literature, exploring science or building critical thinking skills, every step forward is a level up in your learning adventure.
What does “Leveling Up” mean for us?

★ Student-Centered Support: Every student is unique, and we’re here to meet
their needs—whether academic, emotional, or social. Our staff is ready to
support, encourage, and guide them every step of the way.

★ Stronger Connections: We’re committed to building deeper relationships
with students and families. You’ll see more opportunities to connect, share
feedback, and be part of your child’s journey.

★ Increased Parent Engagement: From family nights to volunteer
opportunities to regular updates, we want you involved and informed. Your
voice matters, and your partnership is key.

What does it look like in our school community?

★ Powering students up with knowledge
★ Build resilience through learning
★ Collaboration and leadership
★ Achieve goals and celebrate milestones

We know middle school can be a time of big changes, and we want you to know: we’re all in this together. Whether your child is stepping into 6th grade or preparing for high school, we’re here to make sure they feel safe, supported, and inspired.
Let’s make this year one of transformation, where every student discovers their potential and levels up in ways they never imagined.

We’re excited to partner with you and help every student level up to their full
potential.

Here’s to a fantastic school year!

In Partnership,

Principal Hunter
The Middle School of Media, Law and Fine Arts
[email protected]
[email protected]
718-773-7343