Jaguar Tales
February 25, 2024
Hello, Jaguar Family!
We hope everyone had a great week last week and are enjoying the beautiful weather this weekend has had to offer. As we move into this next week, I want to draw your attention to some school-wide activities.
This coming week it Kindness Week! There is more information and daily challenges are listed below. We ask that we all take moment to slow down and be intentional about being kind. Let's use kind words and participate in kind acts. Let's approach each situation with kindness. There should be kindness in every day!
Also, please remember that at Cedar Valley, we don't participate in countdowns to the next "big thing" (ex: Spring Break). Instead, Jaguars strive to make each day count!
Have a great weekend! Go Jags!
Larissa Ortiz
Cedar Valley Middle School Principal
Larissa_ortiz@roundrockisd.org
512-428-2307
CeVMS Hosts First Track Meet
Cedar Valley hosted the first track meet of the season on Thursday. Congratulations to all of the athletes who participated and to the following students on their outstanding individual accomplishments.
- Isaiah O. - Overall 7th boy most points scored with 38 total individual points. 2 place overall boy was from Deer Park with 25 total individual points
- Leo B. and Isaiah C. - Tied for 2nd place most overall 8th grade boy individual points at 28.
- Leo B. - Leo’s 2400m was a new RRISD District record by almost 13 seconds with a time of 7:28.12
- Leo B. - also set a new RRISD 1600m run at 4:42.59 which broke a RRID District record by 4 seconds. This 8th grade mile record is (was) the oldest middle school record in the district, as it was standing for 35 years (since 1989). Congrats Leo on this amazing accomplishment!!
- Jaishree L. - placed as the #1 top athlete for 7th grade girls with a total of 42 points.
- Talia J. - tied for second place top athlete for 8th grade with a total of 28 points.
Team Results by Grade Level
7th Girls:
1. Ridgeview 214
2. Cevms 204
3. Deerpark 122
8th Girls:
1. Cevms 213.5
2. Ridgeview 212
3. Deerpark 121.5
7th Boys:
1. Ridgeview 205.5
2. Cevms 189
3. Deerpark 152.5
8th Boys:
1. Ridgeview 213
2. Cevms 201
3. Deerpark 132
NJHS Walk4Wishes Carnival
NJHS thanks everyone who donated materials, time, and energy to make Saturday's event a success. It was a great community event and for a great cause!
CeVMS Chess Team Members Excel in Regional Competition
In preparation for the upcoming 2024 State Chess Championship in Houston on March 1-3, CeVMS chess players recently achieved superb results in Central Texas competitions:
- Esha P. tied for 1st in the Waco Swiss tournament on 1/13/24, while brother Srikar P. tied for 4th.
- Ishaan C. finished tied for 3rd in the Region VI Scholastic Chess Championship held in San Antonio on 2/17/24.
- Rahul M. tied for 3rd in the Reserve Section of the Austin Chess Club Winter Open on 1/28/24. In the Austin Monthly Scholastic on 1/13/24 Rahul finished first in the K-12, Elite Section, while Arjun P. tied for 4th. Congratulations to all players!
The following team members will represent CeVMS in the State Chess Championship in Houston in March: Ishaan C., Rahul M., Arjun P., Esha P., Srikar P., and Yangyang S. Best of luck, Jaguars, at state!
Chess coach and sponsor is CeVMS teacher Layne Hendrick.
CeVMS Celebrates School Bus Driver Appreciation Day
We appreciate our CeVMS bus drivers who safely transport our Jags each and every day. Each bus driver received a small token of our appreciation from our campus and PTA on School Bus Driver Appreciation Day on Thursday, February 22. Thank you!
Chinese Community Celebrates Lunar New Year with CeVMS Staff
The Chinese community of Cedar Valley (parents, current students, and future students) celebrated the Lunar New Year with our staff by treating them to a traditional Chinese lunch. It was a great way to celebrate culture and community! Thank you!
Reminder: Arrive to Class on Time!
CeVMS Tardy Response Policy:
- 6 Tardies- Lunch Detention
- 9 Tardies- 2 Days Lunch Detention
- 12 Tardies- After School Detention or 3 Days Lunch Detention
- 15 Tardies- One Day of ISS
- Additional tardies may result in additional consequences and will require an attendance meeting with parents and the grade level administrator.
Electronics at Breakfast Reminder (6th and 7th)
Our 6th and 7th grade students are welcome to eat breakfast in the cafeteria before reporting to their designated hallway. However, please be aware that 6th and 7th grade students are not allowed to use electronics in the cafeteria before school. This is to ensure that students eat breakfast quickly and then report to their designated hallways. Once in their designated hallways, students may use electronics with the sound off until they are released to first period. Reminders of this expectation have been provided with students during lunch.
The Use of AI (Artificial Intelligence)
As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of education and technology, we would like to bring your attention to an important matter regarding academic honesty, particularly in the context of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
In recent times, we have witnessed the rise of AI tools and technologies that can potentially aid students in their academic work. While these tools can be valuable for learning and skill development, they also present challenges related to academic integrity.
It has come to our attention that some students may be tempted to use AI inappropriately, including relying on AI-generated content for assignments, quizzes, or exams. Academic dishonesty undermines the learning process and goes against the values we uphold in our educational community.
We believe in fostering a culture of honesty, integrity, and responsible use of technology. To support this, we encourage you to have open conversations between students and parents about the ethical use of AI tools. Here are a few points you may wish to discuss:
Understanding AI Tools:
- Encourage your child to learn about AI tools, their capabilities, and potential applications in a responsible manner. Education about the ethical use of AI is crucial.
- Reinforce the importance of creating original and authentic academic work. Plagiarism, whether from traditional sources or AI-generated content, is not aligned with our educational values.
- Discuss the potential consequences of academic dishonesty, both in terms of academic penalties and the impact on personal and professional development.
- Encourage critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. Emphasize the importance of the learning process itself, rather than focusing solely on grades or outcomes.
- Create an environment where your child feels comfortable discussing challenges or concerns related to their academic work. Open communication helps address issues proactively.
We appreciate your partnership in promoting a positive and ethical learning environment. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us. Together, we can ensure that our students not only excel academically but also develop into responsible and ethical individuals prepared for the challenges of the future.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
Kindness Week - Feb. 26 - Mar. 1
Popcorn With the Principal (Parent Session)
(Click on image to RSVP)
The CeVMS Book Fair is Coming!
Book Fair Volunteers Needed
Book Fair - CeVMS Library
Feb. 29-Mar. 8, 2024
We need VOLUNTEERS to help the Librarian process sales.
Learn how to setup an eWallet for your student.
Or shop online.
Rising 9th Graders: APPLY for P-TECH
Eighth-graders - Apply Now for P-TECH Nursing Prep Early College at Cedar Ridge High School
Students earn their high school diploma PLUS gain hands-on work experience as a licensed vocational nurse AND earn certifications, college credit or their Associate’s degree for FREE.
Rising freshmen (current eighth-graders) interested in a career in nursing are encouraged to apply.
Tuition, textbooks, and transportation* are INCLUDED.
Discover more information and APPLY BY FRIDAY, MARCH 8. Students must submit their completed application, including three questions and educator recommendation, by Friday, March 8. Student acceptance notifications will start going out the week of March 25.
APPLY for P-TECH | Inscribe en P-TECH
For further information please visit our P-TECH website.
Greece Trip Information Meeting - Feb. 27
We're going to Greece in Summer 2025!!
Do you or your student(s) have a knack for exploring, sightseeing, and learning about history and other cultures? Mrs. Fooshee is hosting a NON-SCHOOL Sponsored excursion to Greece in July 2025 to do just that! Students gain so much from world travel: compassion, networking, perspective, growth and independence, better academic performance and so much more! All incoming 6th, 7th, & 8th graders are welcome (even those going into 9th grade next year)! RSVP to our meeting on February 27, 2024, to get more information! It's going to be quite the experience!
CeVMS YEARBOOK 2023 - 2024
All the things you need to know about ordering the Cedar Valley yearbook and portraits this year are noted below. You can always find the most up to date information here.
We will begin dropping little hints at the theme and look of this year’s book between now and the distribution day in May. The first hint is…it will be a SENSational book!
Ordering a Yearbook
Yearbooks are almost sold out. Click here to order your Jaguar Yearbook. We will not order extra books to sell in person on campus this year; the only way to guarantee a copy is to pre-order online! Seriously, don’t wait until it is too late!
8th Grade Student Recognition Ads Closed
The deadline to purchase recognition ads was February 8th. Thanks to all who purchased an ad this year. They are such a treat for parents and students alike.
Blasts from the Past
If you missed your chance to purchase a 2022 or 2023 yearbook, you are in luck. The yearbook staff is selling some extra books ordered over the summer that were never claimed. The 2022 book is $10 and the 2023 book is $25 (half off)! Supplies are limited, so click HERE if you would like to reserve one of these amazing books.
If you have any questions, please contact Cedar Valley’s Yearbook advisor, Kathleen Johnston at Kathleen_Johnston@roundrockisd.org.
Save the Date - 8th Grade Dance - May 11, 7pm
Save the Date for the 8th Grade End-of-Year Celebration!!
This year's formal dance will take place on Saturday, May 11th, from 7-10PM at Cedar Valley MS!
Admission is FREE, along with free pizza and snacks, great music, karaoke, a photo booth, and much more!
This is a PTA-sponsored event, exclusive for 8th grade Cedar Valley MS students only. No outside guests or students from other grades will be allowed to attend. Parents can attend as volunteers only. Look for additional information on volunteering, donating, and reserving tickets coming out soon.
PTA Nominations
PTA is looking for new people to get involved next year! We are a volunteer run organization focused on improving the school experience for CeVMS staff, students and families. Please nominate yourself or others who could enhance our community using this form. The nomination deadline is March 11th. Submitting information does not require your participation. The nominating committee will contact each nominee with more information.
MHS Football Parent Meeting: Mar. 4
Majestics in the Spotlight - Apr. 6
February is Black History Month (Click on the image below for more info.)
Upcoming Ambassador Chats
Reminder: CeVMS is a Phone-Free Learning Environment
Cedar Valley is a phone-free learning environment. Phones can distract from learning, interfere with community building and connection with others, and can contribute to online conflict. Students are required to keep their phones, earbuds, headphones in their backpacks between 8:10-3:35.
Phones and headphones are allowed in the morning while they wait to be released to 1st period.
No audio should come from the phone (please use headphones).
Phones, headphones, earbuds must be put away by 8:10.
Phones are not allowed to be used in restrooms or locker rooms - this will result in immediate possession of the phone
Students will receive a warning on the first offense. A second offense will result in confiscation with student pick up at the Jag Lobby at the end of the day. A third offense will require parent pick up at the end of the day from the Jag Lobby and a $15 fine.
Parents, please refrain from calling and texting your student during the school day. In the event of an emergency, please contact our main office at 512-428-2300 and we will get the message to your student.
*UPDATED STAAR Testing Dates - Spring 2024*
**Please notes have been updated since they were last shared on Jan. 1. Please update your calendars accordingly.**
Our students will be taking the state-mandated STAAR tests this Spring. We kindly ask that our families avoid scheduling appointments on the days when their students are testing. Also please note, campus visitors will be limited on these days.
April 16 - ELA STAAR - Grades 6, 7, and 8
April 22 - Social Studies STAAR -Grade 8 only
April 23 - Science STAAR - Grade 8 only
April 26 - Math STAAR - Grades 6, 7, and 8 (includes Algebra 1 EOC)
More information about the STAAR tests can be found here.
If you have campus-specific questions about the STAAR test, please contact the campus testing coordinator, Jennifer_Bingham@roundrockisd.org.
AVANT Test for Placement and Credit (Language Testing)
Language testing is available for students to earn credits toward their graduation requirements in Languages Other Than English (LOTE).
Students at CeVMS should contact Ms. Liz Guidry (7th grade counselor) for a permission form to register for the Spring testing date of March 22, 2024. The completed permission form is due by March 8, 2024.
Arrival and Dismissal Safety
1. Please use the designated drop off lanes for arrival and pick up.
2. If you choose to drop off and/or pick up along the street, we ask that everyone use the crosswalk. Do not cross in the middle of the street.
3. If you drop off and/or pick up on Cornerwood near the staff and visitor parking lot, students should use the crosswalk within the parking lot. We have seen students dart out in the middle of the parking lot, in front of moving cars. This is very dangerous.
Everyone plays a role in ensuring student safety. Please help us out!
Volunteers Needed!
One of the best ways to show your student that education is important to you is by volunteering at their school. There are lots of different ways to contribute your time, support and resources.
Please fill out the Volunteer Interest Form below to help us match your interests with the school's needs (such as Staff Appreciation, Dances, Pet Clinic, etc).
This does NOT commit you to anything other than possibly receiving emails when we need help in your areas of interest.
Upcoming Events
All events at Cedar Valley can be found on the Cedar Valley Master Calendar.
Did you know that you can add the Cedar Valley Master Calendar to your calendar? Simply click on this link to access it and add it to your calendar!
Join PTA Today!
Visit our Cedar Valley PTA Online Store to purchase your annual PTA membership, make donations, and purchase your Cedar Valley merchandise at our one stop shop!
Cedar Valley Middle School
Vision: Fostering an inclusive community of lifelong learners
Website: https://cedarvalley.roundrockisd.org/
Location: 8139 Racine Trail, Austin, TX, USA
Phone: 512-428-2300
Facebook: facebook.com/rrisd.cedarvalley
Twitter: @cevmsjags
We are here to help:
Front Office Staff
Administrative Associate - Principal's Office: VACANT, 512-428-2316
Administrative Assistant - Assistant Principals' Office: Ms. Allison Chappelle, 512-428-2303
Administrative Assistant - Counseling Office: Ms. Marilyn Beal, 512-428-2348
Attendance: Ms. Dana Harrison, 512-428-2305
Receptionist: Ms. Allison Samuelson, 512-428-2301
Registrar: Ms. Vicky Escruceria, 512-428-2315
Counselors
8th Grade Counselor: Ms. Gabrielle Kerr
7th Grade Counselor:Ms. Elizabeth Guidry
6th Grade Counselor: Ms. Heather Mills
Administration
Principal: Ms. Larissa Ortiz8th Grade Assistant Principal: Ms. Jennifer Bingham
7th Grade Assistant Principal: Mr. Andrew Carroll
6th Grade Assistant Principal: Ms. Sherrin Gorman