CMS Thursday Notice
November 11, 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
NOVEMBER 17 & 18 - CMS School Quality Review
Wednesday, November 17: CMS Give Back Night at Coals Pizza
Thursday, November 18: Virtual All School Meeting
Saturday, November 20: Pie/Cookie Dough Pick Up
Sunday, November 21: CMS Turkey Trot, 10:30-12:30
Wednesday, November 24: 2-Hour Early Dismissal
NOVEMBER 25-28: THANKSGIVING RECESS
Tuesday, November 30: Virtual Governance Mtg., 6:30 pm
Wednesday, December 1: PICTURE RETAKE DAY
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’s 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.
Dr. Estrella's Meeting with CMS Parents
On Monday, November 8, 2021, NPS Superintendent of Schools Dr. Estrella held a ZOOM meeting with CMS Parents. The meeting was not recorded, but here is a brief recap:
- NPS is considering moving CMS K-8 to the newly constructed elementary school on the Ponus Ridge campus that currently houses Jefferson School while their building is being renovated.
- This space is large enough to house our K-8 program while also allowing us to expand our middle school enrollment to 2 classes per grade.
- CMS K-8 would maintain its progressive program and teaching philosophy in the new location.
At this time, nothing is definite, but here is the proposed plan:
The Jefferson renovation is expected to be completed by the end of this school year, allowing CMS K-8 to move to the Ponus Ridge campus in time for the 2022 opening of school.
Dr. Estrella has arranged a time for CMS parents to tour the site on Monday, November 15 at 6:00 pm. The address is 21 Hunters Lane. Parents wishing to attend the tour must RSVP. Please use the form below to respond.
- LIMIT OF 2 PEOPLE PER FAMILY.
- MASKS REQUIRED
Bringing Back an Old CMS Tradition!
Sunday, November 21, 10:30-12:30 pm. The Turkey Trot was a long-standing CMS tradition organized by former physical education teacher Tom Kretsch. The Turkey Trot was held each year the Sunday before Thanksgiving at Cranbury Park. Our PTA would like to resurrect this tradition in our own backyard. Won't you join the fun? Please let us know you're coming by signing up using the registration link below.
If we don't have enough families signed up, we will sadly have to cancel. A little turkey told us that a lucky student MIGHT have the opportunity to give a certain principal a pie in the face!
Middle School Happenings!
Now that we're nearing the middle of the school year, CMS middle schoolers have started working on their projects.
- The 6th graders are working on their Middle East projects.
- The seventh graders are working on their Central and South American countries.
- The 8th graders are working on their documentaries on American History.
Start looking for these projects displayed in the Middle School hallway soon!
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
CMS Give Back Night at Coal's Pizza!
WHERE: COALS PIZZA, 9 Wall Street, Norwalk
WHO: YOU!
WHY: Have a great dinner and earn money for our school!
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.
Community News & Events!
Pie/Cookie Dough Fundraiser
Thank you to everyone who bought or sold pies and cookie dough this year. We made a little over $3,000 (AMAZING!!!). A huge shout out goes to the DiScala family who sold 59 Items!!!
Order pick up will be on November 20, 2021. More information to follow. Volunteers needed! Contact Valerie at valerie102780@gmail.com.
Thank you again for all your hard work!
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/