The Mustang Minute
December 8, 2017 - Issue 15
Building Independence
After the winter break, CMS will be providing all students with a log in and password to their Aspen account. With this log in they will be able to monitor their grades and assignments regularly. Early in January, students will learn their passwords and log in and get a tutorial on the areas in Aspen that they will be able to see. These areas will be similar to those available to parents: grades, report cards, etc. Teachers will work with the students to show them how to monitor their progress and check for missing assignments.
We do know that increased information can also bring increased focus. Which can be both a positive and a negative, students can become overly focused on grades and assignments versus learning. We will work with students to find a good balance. This is also why we wanted parents to be aware of this change before it occurred so that you can also prepare and support your children. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call or email at any time.
Geography Rap?
Rap Battle Prep Work
Math Rap in action!
Social Media Warning
Donations for the Franciscan Children's hospital
Student Council and the CMS Guidance Department are
working together again this year to collect for children and families in need during this year’s holiday season.
The drive will be held until December 14.
Each grade level is collecting the following items...
Sixth Grade = New, not used, Infant and toddler clothes
Seventh Grade = New, not used, Infant and toddler toys
Eighth Grade = Gift cards to places like Target, Kohl’s, Best Buy, Walmart, Dicks Sporting Goods, etc.
Teachers Staff = New sports themed items for children OR gift cards
Representatives from Student Council will come around during Mustang Block to collect the iterms. Please be sure all donations are new and not used.
We hope that you will join us in spreading the holiday spirit of giving and consider donating!
Looking for Host Families
We will be hosting an information for parents at the beginning of December. Please look for an announcement!
Blues Hills Application
DC Scholarship Fund
If you are a part of any local organizations (Rotary, Lions, etc) that might be willing to sponsor a student on the trip please let me know. I would be happy to present at a meeting.
Teacher Tweet Out
A Tweet to Ms. Norris, Ms. MacKenzie (pictured here), Mr. Greeley, Mr. McCarthy, and Mr. Smith for donating their time last Monday night for the PTO McDonald's fundraiser! A great event that raised over $500!
After School Club Updates
We are in the process of collecting all after school club schedules. Once collected we will create a master calendar for parents to follow.
Drama Club: Mondays 2:15-3:00 pm
National History Day: Students choose either Tuesday or Wednesday
Friendship Club: Will meet Tuesdays starting later in October
Cartooning: Will meet Thursdays
SEARCH: Meets on Mondays
Student Council: Will meet on the last Tuesday of the month starting later this month.
Artists Club: meets Wednesdays starting October 18th.
CMS Book Club: This year we are reading “Ghost” by Jason Reynolds. Read the book and join us on October 26th after school in the library. See Mrs. MacTavish or Mrs. Lockwood with questions.
Math Club: Will be meeting on Thursday's
CMS Honor Chorus: Monday and Wednesdays 2:15-3:00 pm
CMS Jazz Band: Wednesday's 5-7:30 pm
CMS Honor Band: Rehearsal Mondays from 4:30-6 pm in the CMS auditorium.
CMS Honor Orchestra: Tuesdays 4:40-6:00 pm
Intramural Sports: please check the website (linked below) for all schedules.
PTO Corner
The PTO meets the second Thursday of each month to hear an update from the principal and discuss planning related to enrichment, fundraising, activities and other topics of interest. You can also stay up to date with the CMS PTO by following us on Facebook. You can contact the PTO at coakleypto@gmail.com.
2017-2018 Meeting Schedule
Meetings are held the second Thursday of each month from 7-8 p.m. in the middle school library.
• December 15: Social get together at Conrad's
• January 9 (NEW DATE)
• February 8
• March 8
• April 12
• May 10
• June 14
Important Dates
December 14: Grade 7/8 Choral Concert
December 19: Grade 7/8 Instrumental Concert
January 9: PTO at 7pm
January 11: Grade 6 Choral and Instrumental Concert