Challand Middle School

CMS Family Newsletter 

October 18, 2024

Important Dates

October 21 - Band/Choir/Orchestra Pictures (Whole Ensemble) for Yearbook

October 25 - Halloween Dance at CMS

October 30 - 11:25 - Half-Day Dismissal

October 30 - CMS 6th Choir Concert (6:00 PM); 7th/8th Grade Concert (7:15 PM)

November 1 - Brazil's Birthday!

November 2 - CMS Music Program Mattress Fundraiser

November 5 - No School Election Day

November 25-November 29 - Fall/Thanksgiving Break

December 23- January 3 - Winter Break

PLC Wednesday Dismissal will continue with CMS dismissing at 2:00 PM. This will take place every Wednesday unless it is a District Half Day and we will dismiss at 11:25 AM on those occasions.

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Welcome to the 2024-2025 School Year! The staff at Challand Middle School is looking forward to welcoming all our students back to school. Families will be updated monthly on events, updates, and important information.

This month, we participated in Unity Day, focusing on creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students. Throughout the month, we provided lessons, messages, and engaging activities aimed at promoting kindness and unity. Students worked collaboratively to enhance their problem-solving skills and become purposeful collaborators. A key highlight was the unveiling of Safe2Speak Up, an app designed to empower students to report bullying and other concerns confidentially. We remind students that if they ever sense immediate danger, they should not hesitate to inform an adult or call the police. To date, we have received about 25 reported tips related to bullying, inappropriate behavior, or student concerns, reflecting our commitment to fostering a supportive community. Let’s continue to stand together against bullying and support one another!

KIND
SOTM

Cause for Congratulations!

Challand Middle School is off to a fantastic start this academic year, celebrating our Students of the Month, Core All-Stars, and Warriors on Wheels, all initiatives designed to promote student achievement.

By celebrating these achievements, we hope to inspire all students to develop good habits, strive for academic success, and understand that hard work truly pays off!

  • Our Students of the Month exemplify academic excellence while fostering a positive classroom atmosphere. We appreciate a donation from Wendy's, which provides meal coupons for our Students of the Month. September Students of the Month:

    • 8.1 - Aidan K

      8.2 - Peyton T

    • 7.1 - Wyatt G

      7.2 - Riley D

    • 6.1 - Kenadie L

      6.2 - Zander L

    • Life Skills - Alexa Barrientos


  • The Core All-Stars highlight the Learner Disposition each month, with September focusing on problem-solving and October emphasizing purposeful collaboration. Looking ahead, we will explore effective communication in November and creative innovation in December. These students receive a token for Warrior Way or a small snack from the office. September Core All-Stars:

    • 6.1

      Sam R, Alex A, Rikki N, Brynlee B

    • 6.2

      Aurora C, Mia S, Cooper H, Quin A, Justin L

    • 7.1

      Alivia L, Simeon H, Griffin K, Karsyn R, Gus M

    • 7.2

      Alejandro G, Analeigh P, Val D, Jaythan L, Lily S

    • 8.1 

      Myla W, Makaylee G, Evan S, Frankie V, Kendra D

    • 8.2 

      Elle L, Zander G, Alberto C, Elias H

  • The Warriors on Wheels recognizes students who maintain A's, B's, and C's with no discipline referrals for the month. September's Warrior on Wheels was Addison G. Warriors on Wheels is made possible by a donation from Sterling Fence, who pledged to provide one bicycle a month for the student winter.

WW
fall party

Halloween Spirit Party!

On October 25th, CMS students are invited to the CMS Spirit Party!

Who: All Students

What: Spirit Party - feel free to wear costumes (no masks, weapons, overly violent costumes) and enjoy dancing, activities, sports -- and food!

Where: CMS Athletic Center

When: October 25th 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Cost to enter will be $2; snacks will be included and additional food items/beverages will be available for purchase.

If you would like to donate your time -- or items, please complete the following google form -- we appreciate your support!

https://forms.gle/Xhja8XwejSZveWdx9

Veteran's Day

School will be in session for Veteran's Day this year on November 11, 2024. To recognize our Veterans, students and their families are encouraged to share a picture of an important Veteran or actively serving military member with Ms. Engstrom via email (lengstrom@sps5.org); the images and information about these VIP's will be shared via a video at school, and posted on Facebook to share.

When sharing your image, please include your student's name, you veteran/active service member's name and their branch of military. To be featured, these should be emailed no later than Friday, November 8th.

We thank our veterans and actively serving military members for your service!

Veteran's Day

Supporting Middle Schoolers Academically: The Importance of Structure, Boundaries, and Support

Raising middle schoolers can be amazing -- but it is also tough on parents. While students may want parents to back off a bit -- it is during these years that parents really need to be present in the lives of their pre-teens and teens.

As middle schoolers navigate a pivotal stage in their academic and social development, parents play a crucial role in their success. Providing structure, establishing boundaries, and offering support can significantly enhance your child’s educational experience.

1. Create a Structured Routine:
Consistency is key for middle school students. Establish a daily schedule that includes dedicated time for homework, study sessions, and breaks. This helps students develop good time-management skills and reduces stress. Encourage them to create a designated study space that is quiet and free from distractions.

2. Set Clear Boundaries:
Setting boundaries around technology use, socializing, and study time is essential. Limit screen time during homework hours and encourage a balance between academic responsibilities and leisure activities. Communicate your expectations clearly, and be firm yet supportive in enforcing them.

3. Be Actively Involved:
Engagement in your child’s academic life is vital. Attend school events, monitor their grades, and communicate with teachers when necessary. Show interest in their projects and assignments; ask open-ended questions about what they’re learning to foster deeper discussions and critical thinking.

4. Encourage Independence:
While support is important, allowing your child to take ownership of their learning fosters independence and confidence. Encourage them to set their own academic goals, and help them develop problem-solving skills when they encounter challenges.

5. Promote a Growth Mindset:
Encourage resilience by praising effort rather than just achievement. Help your child understand that mistakes are part of the learning process and that persistence is key to overcoming obstacles.

By providing structure, setting boundaries, and offering unwavering support, parents can empower their middle schoolers to thrive academically and personally. This foundational support will not only enhance their academic success but also instill confidence and independence as they prepare for high school and beyond.

Contact Us!

Challand Middle School

1700 6th Ave

Sterling, IL 61081

Phone: 815-626-3300

Fax: 815-622-4173

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CMS School Hours

Regular Day 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.

1 Hour Early Release PLC 7:50 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Half Day 7:50 a.m. - 11:25 p.m.

Liz Engstrom

Principal

lengstrom@sps5.org

Emily Duncan

Associate Principal

eduncan@sps5.org

Jason Fargher

Dean and Director of Athletics and Activities

jfargher@sps5.org