Clipper Connection
E-Newsletter (September 30, 2022)
Message from Superintendent Dr. Craig Parkinson
Hello CUSD families,
We have reached the end of September, and our first full month of school is officially behind us.
In just a short period of time, amazing things have happened in our schools and I am excited for what the rest of the year will hold.
As things unfold, I am committed to sharing that information with you.
In my role as Superintendent of Schools for the district, one of my responsibilities is to find opportunities to partner with people and organizations that can help us better serve and educate our children.
On September 19, I proudly represented the district in my role during the National Superintendents Conference in Dallas Texas. While at the conference I had a chance to network with other Superintendents throughout the country and learn from other educators about ways to enhance educational outcomes for students. I also had the pleasure of presenting to several superintendents about the great work that is taking place in the CUSD.
I am sharing this information because I want you to know that school leaders are always working on behalf of the district, whether we are near or far.
Stay Connected
The district wants you to stay informed and engaged. In addition to this bi-weekly E-Newsletter, families can hear about the latest district happenings during my Thursday Thoughts video message.
Every other Thursday, the video message will be posted on the district’s website (https://www.chesteruplandsd.org/).
You can watch the latest edition of Thursday Thoughts below.
Chester High Urban News
Our students are extremely talented, and we are excited to share that our high schoolers have been working hard on a new initiative called, Chester High Urban News.
Every week, with the help of district staff, students produce a weekly 2-3 minute video announcement. Students are involved in the process from beginning to end, and are learning everything it takes to produce a newscast, including writing scripts, being on-air, video camera operation and pre and post-production work.
These announcements highlight important information related to Chester High School and are uploaded to the district’s YouTube channel. If you missed the first few episodes, you can click on the links before to catch up.
*** STEM also has a similar news show entitled, STEM TV News. Their video announcement will be added to our YouTube channel soon. Be on the lookout for that update. ***
Homestead Tax Deadline Extended
The Homestead Tax Discount Deadline has been extended until December 31, 2022.
If you are a homeowner in the city of Chester whose permanent residence is in the Chester Upland School District, you will receive a credit for the 2022-23 fiscal year.
If you have any questions, please contact the district’s Business Office at (267) 916-5079.
In Case You Missed It #ICYMI
Senior College and Career Meeting at STEM
On Wednesday, seniors at STEM spent most of the morning attending a college and career meeting inside the school’s auditorium.
Principal Brendon Bell and Senior Class Counselor Casey Hargadon worked to organize this much-needed forum, which focused on getting students prepared for the college admission process or career opportunities post-graduation.
Staff and school administrators, including College and Career Counselor for CHS and STEM Edward Franklin, helped students navigate online platforms like Naviance by PowerSchool and Common App-- two online vehicles created to help students prepare for college/the future.
"Our mission during these college and career workshops is turn students post-secondary goals into reality. Whether that’s trade school, cosmetology or a 4 year college, we want to make this experience as enjoyable and easy as possible. This week’s workshop was utilized to submit application fee waivers, connect students with available resources and discuss financial needs. There are so many barriers our students face, we hope that pursuing higher education is not one of them!" - Casey Hargadon, Senior Class Counselor
A representative from Boy Scouts of America provided students with applications to participate in career opportunities learning from public service professionals such as police, fire, and EMTs.
Interested students can sign up to learn more about these positions through the Exploring Program.
Edgmont Scholars Academy Holds 1st Student of the Month Assembly
Earlier today, Edgmont Scholars Academy held its first Student of the Month Assembly to recognize students for various achievements during the first month of school.
27 students from grades K-8 were honored.
On behalf of the entire district, we would like to congratulate the following students:
- Emree Cameron-Bailey
- Amelia Lane
- Mikaun Wiggins
- Amelia Monroe
- Anisha Smith
- Emmanuel Foster
- Jamiyah Nickerson
- Zaida Ahmad
- Adelynn-Joy Bett
- Karder Spencer
- Ahniylah Jones
- Mia Lammons
- Mu'Adh Hunter
- Avery Carter
- Janyla Bobbitt
- D'Naira Highsmith-Rogers
- Soraya Baxter
- Kelis A. Morales
- Michael Thompson
- Tori Slydell-Williams
- Ladaia Groom
- Kamya Stevenson
- Kristian Garrett
- Madison Chappell
- Samara Cantu
- Morayo Ajayi
- Avery Carter
Parent University Survey
The district is preparing to launch a Parent University model that will provide you with workshops, seminars, and classes.
Please fill out the survey to help guide what is offered.
Now Open! Before & After School Program Sign-Ups
You can now sign up for 21st CCLC Before & After School Programs.
Several programs being offered for the 2022-2023 school year:
- Before School Care (at select schools)
- After School Programs (at all schools)
- FREE Snack for all students in attendance
- Transportation provided for After School Programs
Visit https://www.chesteruplandsd.org/Page/1855 to learn more.
You can also visit the main office at your child’s school to pick up a paper application.
*** Upcoming Dates ***
· Indigenous Peoples’ Day - October 10 (NO SCHOOL)
· Stetser Claire’s Fundraiser Begins - October 11
· CHS & STEM Spirit Week/Homecoming - October 17 - 22
· Homecoming Game - October 22