Our partial day schedule will continue August 17th-21st with a special focus on building relationships, getting to know scholars and teaching routines and expectations. Additionally, our kindergarten and French Immersion scholars will begin school on Monday, August 17th. Everyone will log on at 9:00 am Monday morning.

We will transition to a longer schedule beginning August 24th. We know parents have concerns about screen time so we are planning a variety of activities that scholars can do that give them a break from the Chromebook. Some of those activities will include the textbooks, novels and resources that will be available for pick up on Thursday and Friday this week. If you are unable to make those days, please arrange an alternative day to pick them up from the office.

While nothing can replace the joy, energy and smiles of in person learning, I have loved saying hi to scholars during their live meetings. We will continue to navigate different ways to build community and to keep the Cougar spirit alive.

Blessings,

Dr. Garcia

Families with the last name A-M will come on August 20th (if you have a conflict with this day, you can come on the 21st).

Families with the last name N-Z will come on August 21st. (If you have a conflict with this day, you can come on the 20th).

My name is Ivan Castillo and I will be your Aspiring Leader for the academic year. As an Aspiring Leader, I take part in the District’s principal pipeline program that focuses on preparing aspiring principals. I am someone who believes in building relationships in the community, equity and fairness, and being a positive role model for our students. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Indiana University South Bend and my M.S.Ed in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies from Indiana University – Bloomington in May 2020. During my undergraduate years, I spent most of my time volunteering at La Casa de Amistad, which had an impact on my decision to continue serving and advocating for students in my community. I taught English at Washington high school after graduation but have spent the last two years as a member of the Aspiring leader principal pipeline program at Lincoln Elementary School. I believe that all of my experiences, the guidance and lessons from my mentors, and my professional development training have properly equipped me to step up and serve as the Aspiring Leader at Clay International Academy.

When I’m not inside a school, I’m usually outside on the soccer field. I am starting my second year as head coach for the men’s soccer team at Washington high school, so I like to thank them for keeping me in shape and reminding me that being in your late 20’s is not old. I am proud to be part of #TeamSouthBend and am excited for the opportunity to serve the Clay International Academy community!

On August 20th, teachers will be having a virtual open house so you can learn more about how their class runs. The Virtual Open House will be from 4:30-6:00 pm. Teachers are taking part in a variety of ways and will be contacting parents and scholars about how to access their individual events.

Beginning the week of August 17th, an alternating meal distribution schedule will be in place. Meals will be distributed from noon to 2 p.m. A map of the sites is here.

• Washington High School: Monday through Thursday

• Kennedy Academy: Monday/Wednesday

• Madison STEAM Academy: Monday/Wednesday

• Marquette Montessori Academy: Monday/Wednesday

• Monroe Elementary School: Monday/Wednesday

• Rise Up Academy: Monday/Wednesday

• Swanson Traditional School: Monday/Wednesday

• Tarkington Elementary School: Monday/Wednesday

• Coquillard Elementary School: Tuesday/Thursday

• Darden Elementary School: Tuesday/Thursday

• Harrison Elementary School: Tuesday/Thursday

• LaSalle Academy: Tuesday/Thursday

• Lincoln Elementary School: Tuesday/Thursday

• Muessel Elementary School: Tuesday/Thursday

• Nuner Fine Arts Academy: Tuesday/Thursday

Please remember to take the District's strategic planning survey, which is available on our website. No matter what your role is in our district, whether parent, teacher, staff, or student, your voice is truly essential as we plan our future.