CMS Thursday Notice
November 18, 2021
CMS K-8
A wonderful place where we all learn and grow . . .
Email: lakint@norwalkps.org
Website: cms.norwalkps.org
Location: 46 Concord Street, Norwalk, CT, 06854
Phone: (203)899-2840
Important Dates
Friday, November 19: Middle School Movie Night, 6:15 pm
Saturday, November 20: Pie/Cookie Dough Pick Up, 10:45-11:45 am
Sunday, November 21: CMS Turkey Trot, 10:30-12:30
Wednesday, November 24: 2-HOUR EARLY DISMISSAL, 1:25 pm
Wednesday, November 24: All School Meeting, 9:30 am
NOVEMBER 25-28: THANKSGIVING RECESS
Tuesday, November 30: Virtual Governance Mtg., 6:30 pm
Wednesday, December 1: PICTURE RETAKE DAY
December 3-21 - Parent/Teacher Conferences
Thursday, December 9: 90-MINUTE EARLY DISMISSAL, 1:55 pm
Thursday, December 16: 90-MINUTE EARLY DISMISSAL, 1:55 pm
Thursday, December 16: CONFERENCE NIGHT, 6:00-8:00 pm
Thursday, December 23: 2-HOUR EARLY DISMISSAL, 1:25 pm
DECEMBER 24-JANUARY 2: HOLIDAY RECESS
Monday, January 3: School Resumes
School Quality Review
What is a School Quality Review (SQR)?
A School Quality Review is a process for evaluating a school. A review team visits the school to look at documentation; interview staff, students and parents; and visit classrooms. The goal is to observe learning and teaching and to evaluate the school's strengths and areas requiring improvement.
Why are SQRs Necessary?
An SQR provides a comprehensive picture of a school’s performance. Until now, school performance in the United States has been judged largely on the basis of available student-performance data. An SQR takes into account the context of the school. It assesses the educational processes, including learning and teaching, which have a major influence on student results, giving the school a clearer view of its strengths and areas for improvement.
How will SQRs help improve the quality of education for students?
The School Quality Review is one component of CMS’ rigorous program for school accountability and improvement. It is a high-quality, evidence-based, objective validation of the school’s work and qualities. The review focuses on student achievement, learning, and quality teaching. When a School Quality Review is set within a culture of self-reflection, analysis of results, and action, it becomes a powerful tool for improving the quality of education for all students.
Below is a link to Dr. Estrella's letter to parents on the SQR process.
Pie/Cookie Dough Order Pick Up
Pie and Cookie Dough Order pick up will be on Saturday, November 20, 2021 from 10:45-11:45 am. When picking up orders, please drive in to our drop-off/pick-up area. Orders will be brought to your cars.
Please Note: Orders must be picked up 11:45 am. Orders not picked up by that time will be donated to Person-to-Person in South Norwalk.
We are looking for 5-6 volunteers to help with pie distribution. Volunteers are needed from 10:00-12:00. If you would like to help, please contact Valerie at
Thank you again for your hard work and support!
Reminder: Turkey Trot, Sunday, November 21!!
Middle School Movie Night!
WHERE: CMS GYM
WHEN: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 6:15-8:15 PM
WHO: CMS Middle School Students
COST: $5.00 PER PERSON
Special Notes: Bring a blanket/towel to sit on.
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled from December 3-21. Conference Night is Thursday, December 16 from 6:00-8:00 pm. Parents will be receiving more information and appointment letters from classroom teachers soon.
There are two 90-Minute Early Dismissals planned during the Conference Period: Thursday, December 9 and Thursday, December 16. Dismissal will begin at 1:55 pm on those days.
A Special Visit from Officer Cornell
CMS SRO (School Resource Officer) Cornell Abruzzini paid a special visit to CMS on Monday to talk to our Second Graders about his job as a police officer. Officer Cornell shared a special book with our students and happily answered ALL of their questions. Officer Cornell truly enhanced our Second Grade study of Community Helpers! It was an informative and FUN, FUN, FUN experience for all!
Holiday Donations Needed!
The holiday season is fast approaching, and we would like to support some of our families with supermarket gift cards for Thanksgiving. If you are interested in making a donation, please contact CMS Social Worker, Elisa Campisi at campisie@norwalkps.org.
CMS Coat Collection
As the cold weather approaches some families in our CMS community are in need of warm winter coats. If you are able to donate a NEW or gently used unisex coat, we would greatly appreciate it. Coat drop-offs can be given to Mr. Michael at the security desk.
Please click on the link to review the available slots and sign up. Thank you
Community News & Events!
Dr. Estrella's Book Club
November's Superintendent Book Club pick is "Turtle Island, The Story of North America's First People" by Eldon Yellowhorn and Kathy Lowinger.
NPS Superintendent Dr. Estrella chose this book to celebrate National Native American Heritage Month. This beautifully illustrated compilation of stories provides insight into the historical events that took place enabling First Nations people to settle and create a life for themselves.
Amazon Smile
Select "PTSA Connecticut Congress Columbus Magnet PTA" as your charitable organization on Amazon Smile and you can support CMS at no extra cost when you shop at https://smile.amazon.com/