CMS Families,
As we enter November, I want to take a moment to pause and share how thankful I am—thankful for your students, thankful for you as supportive families, and incredibly thankful for our dedicated staff. This time of year is a wonderful reminder that gratitude and growth often go hand-in-hand. We are nearing the finish line of first semester, and I could not be more proud of how well our students are doing academically and behaviorally so far this year. There is so much to celebrate—and still important work to continue.
As we move through the month, I encourage families to partner with us to help students finish strong:
- check Skyward regularly to monitor grades, progress, and missing assignments
- check in with teachers when you have questions or need clarification
- review Google Classroom together to see posted work, due dates, and feedback
- encourage work completion at home and help students build the habit of finishing what they start
- remind your student to take advantage of retakes and chances for reassessment—these opportunities truly make a difference in maintaining positive, accurate grades that reflect real learning
When families, students, and school staff stay aligned—kids thrive. And this year, we are seeing great things across campus because of that partnership.
I am grateful to lead a school filled with students who are growing, learning, trying, and becoming the best version of themselves day by day. I am grateful for families who continue to support their children’s success and trust us to guide them. And I am grateful for a staff who shows up each day ready to teach, care, and inspire.
Thank you for who you are, and thank you for sharing your children with us. Wishing each of you a November filled with reflection, gratitude, and quality moments together.
Let’s finish this semester strong, together.
With appreciation,
Liz Engstrom
Principal, Challand Middle School
