Hello again Madeira Beach Fundamental Families,

We began Spring Break Friday, March 13, 2020 having successfully completed three grading periods in the brick and mortar building.  Our final tasks were to end the year with the culminating tests and final exams, host our Fish Fry, then finish with  the “normal” yearly rites of passage.  I am fascinated by history.  We are living in a history book.  And while things did not go as scripted, I could not be prouder of our school community of students, staff, and parents.  We made the best of what remained of our school year… just differently.  The year 2020 has been unique, to say the least. 

As my 11^th year with you in the Madfun learning community comes to a close, I am reflecting so much.  Many of you have surmised through my writing and through my speaking that I love my life and my work. Much of who I am and what I claim to be began as a child.  I “pretty much” stayed out of trouble, went to exceptional schools, and had the best friends (many of whom I still connect with). As for my parents and extended family, they were my first and best teachers.  They loved me unconditionally, surrounding me first and foremost with their wisdom, and teaching me to be respectful, responsible, honest, and self-motivated. That's the cornerstone, but was also greatly influenced by the diverse community of people I was a part of--a diverse community with varying cultures and beliefs. Old, young, green, yellow, or red--it did not matter.  I was taught to learn from everyone, especially my elders.  I am grateful to have learned from and in a St. Petersburg community “of many” and to judge others by the content of their character, and just be good.  I wouldn’t have it any other way. They let me know through their words and actions, that I was capable, successful, healthy, and most of all--loved.  I hope that I too have helped guide and support your child’s journey the way I was guided. Through my work as a Principal, a teacher, actor, singer, parking attendant, resource officer, lunchroom waiter, morning announcement DJ, and a myriad of other roles (just check my work closet for the costumes and wigs I have from years of play), I have tried my best to positively lead a Madfun community.… even in the most challenging of times.

I owe a huge debt of gratitude to others who helped along the way this year.

First, thank you to the MBFS staff for the hard work, professionalism and incredible dedication shown to nurture children and families. Even in best and worst of times, academically, and socially, in the brick and mortar, and virtual worlds we’ve experienced this year...we built a learning community that was student-centered, safe, healthy, and fun.  Their energy is greatly appreciated.  They are the best of the best.

Next, thanks to our parent, family, and community of stakeholders who stepped up to the plate, lent a hand, volunteered as a chaperone, catered, and above all—cared. Your support has been overwhelming and is truly heartfelt. Most importantly, thank you for sending your child to us and trusting us with your most valued treasure.  We also have the most amazing PTSA in the world. Because of their work, we all benefited so wonderfully.

Finally, to all the Madfun students, thank you for bringing sunshine to the beach each day. Your smiles, energy, and uniquely wonderful personalities are the reason I get up and go to work each and every day. I do have the best job in the world. You give me the joy and pride that keeps me young. To our outgoing 8^th grade class and their families who will be in new schools next fall, I know this is not goodbye, but just see you later.  I (we) will miss you tremendously and wish you the best of luck in everything you choose to do. 

The year 2020 has been unique, to say the least.
See you soon.

Best regards, 

Mr. Chris Ateek, Principal

MBFS Digital Learning Guidelines
PLEASE READ...click on links below:

MBFS Virtual School Student Expectations

Appropriate Computer Use Policy

For Information on how to get started with Digital Learning including how to log in,

click on the link below:

Digital Learning Students & Families Webpage

Virtual Attendance Matters!

Click on the link below for a message from Principal Ateek:

Virtual Attendance Matters

Welcome to MadFun virtual school. As always, student attendance MATTERS. A lot of things have changed, but one thing has not. Student attendance matters. Every student, every day. Students must check in for attendance in each class by 10:30 AM every day. We do understand there will be times when this is not possible understanding that technology availability and parent support differs from home to home, but let’s do our best to get into a routine.

There are several ways your child can be marked present in your virtual classes. Teachers will send out an attendance link OR an attendance question for check in. Your attendance can also be counted when you turn in an assignment.  Make sure you're checking TEAMS or FORMS for these assignments, from each of your teachers every day. You can also send a message directly to your teachers using Focus. If you're having connection or technology issues, check out the website for digital learning from Pinellas County Schools at  www.pcsb.org/digitallearninfo.  If you are having technical issues you can also call District Tech Support at 727.588.6060. We are all learning as we go and are right here with you.