-Scott Loehr

As we continue down this unchartered path and anxiously await the day we get to welcome all students back on campus I am very proud of the creative ways teachers, administrators and support staff are working together to support learning. This past year, teachers have diligently worked to create the best possible learning experience in the virtual world we were all thrust into. However, as educators and parents we know that the school experience extends beyond academics. Throughout the district, school sites are making virtual connections and developing unique opportunities for students.

At Center High School, following CIF and state/local safety guidelines, athletes are returning to competition with the start of cross country, tennis, track and field, swimming, baseball and softball. CHS is holding the annual Elective Fair through a digital format beginning the week of March 1st. All information about courses and programs will be posted in a centralized location to ensure access for all. The following week specialized presentations will be made in designated classes to help students complete their course requests for the 2021-22 school year. CHS is expanding club offerings in the spring semester providing students with additional means to connect with others. CHS is continuing the partnership with Studio T Arts & Entertainment to provide all students access to Pass 2 Class, a library of motivational, dance, exercise and other videos designed to support social, emotional and physical health.

Riles Middle School has embraced virtual assemblies bringing in Kevin Bracey as a motivational speaker. Bracey shared his message of keeping a positive attitude and having a growth mindset. Through this virtual mode, students engaged with Bracey and had a few minutes after to connect virtually with their friends. Student government sponsored four weeks of kindness challenges sharing ways students could spread kindness in their homes, among friends and within the community. On March 18th, WCR will host a virtual information night for all incoming families to highlight programs and to welcome them into the Riles family.

Elementary sites are doing spirit week, virtual field trips and virtual awards assemblies to bring students together. At Dudley, Principal Jackson hosts “Virtual Lunch” where students can sign up to join Mr. Jackson for lunchtime chats. Dudley’s 2nd grade teachers have embraced this concept and started the “Lunch Bunch”, creating a space for students to share and talk with classmates. At North Country Principal Farrel and Vice Principal Vitale connect with students through “Principals on Wheels” where they stop at homes to deliver a small goodie bag. North Country also offers Virtual Storytime for TK-3rd grade students and 4th-6th grade students. Spinelli has launched Sami Circuit which are weekly 20 minute videos that support social-emotional learning, growth mindset and physical activity. Monthly Sami Circuit Family Nights are livestreamed so families can complete a workout together, hear a positive message and enter a fun drawing.

The Kindness Challenge is still underway and you can make your mark on CJUSD. Plan a family craft night and paint rocks. Add positive words to spread kindness to all who see. Deliver your painted rocks to the Family Resource Center. All rocks will be used to a create a pathway of kindness at the District Office.

Please continue to check the centerusd.org website and your email inbox for all district updates.