DON’T FORGET!

Remember that tomorrow, Friday, October 12^th is an early dismissal conference day, and  . . .

NO hot lunch is scheduled. If you ordered because there was a menu printed for that day, your money will be credited for a future lunch (such dates are not misprints—our vendor serves multiple clients with as many calendar variations.)

Dismissed children must be picked up between 12:30 – 12:45 unless they are to go to aftercare. If you’re “dropping in” tomorrow, the fee is $20; not $10 (provides for the additional staff hours and an included lunch)

Scheduled extra curricular activities (Golf/Music/Tennis, etc.) are to begin at their regular time—not earlier. Children waiting until such activities begin must pay for the extended care if not already enrolled (or be picked up and returned for that activity).

G/T PROGRAM, Part 2: Just what is this “Focused Staff Development”?

As mentioned in the September 27^th issue of the Update, the G/T (Gifted/Talented) program is being modified extensively this year. Part of the change is something we call “focused” staff development. This simply means that instead of a general or global approach to or review of certain instructional issues, we are targeting very specific areas for growth and renewal. CCA has employed the services of a trusted and experienced staff development consultant and she has already begun the reshaping of the program. An expected (and contractually stipulated) outcome of this activity is that we will answer many of your questions about the level of academic work as well as ongoing communication with parents. We appreciate your patience as we work to improve the quality of your child (ren)s experience at Colonial Christian Academy.

STUDENTS AND CELL PHONES

Since school began, we have had two (2) cases of cellular phones in a student’s possession. We recognize that parents determine when and why they give a child a cell phone and we are careful to not prohibit the possession of cell phones. However, your child will be permitted only to have them stored in their book bags—not on their person—during school time, and they must be turned off during the school day. Please remember that among the promises CCA makes is that there will be a minimum of disruption to instruction. We take every reasonable precaution to provide for the safety of children, including the prompt delivery of parent/guardian messages as the need arises. So please—limit cellular phone access in school!

OCTOBER IS FIRE SAFETY MONTH AND THIS IS FIRE SAFETY WEEK!

As part of our preparation for emergencies, we rehearsed not only evacuating the building, but we marched across the field to the Carriage Hill Village Apartments. The management has again graciously allowed us permission to bring our children and staff there in the event of an evacuation that would require a sustained stay out of the building. Now you know that your children would not be exposed to the elements and there is a location appropriate for an orderly and unhurried pickup of your child should such an emergency arise. I hope a few of you will take a moment to call Carriage Hill’s management (410-922-7400 or 7402) to thank them for their kindness!

SIGHT AND SOUND

All monies for the December 12^th field trip to Sight & Sound to see “The Miracle of Christmas” must be turned no later than October 25^th. Contract obligation prohibit any exceptions!

TODAY!

Thursday, October 11^th (4:00 – 6:00 pm)…Uniform Exchange Program

Friday, October 12^th. ……………………………………………………Conference Day: Early Dismissal ( 12:30)

(Please remember that you’ll need to have pre-scheduled appointment time!)

Tuesday, October 16^th. ………………………………………………………………………………. GRANDPARENTS DAY

Thursday, October 18^th……………………………………………………….Maryland Child Safety Photo ID Day

Saturday, October 20^th……………………………………………..…….Colonial Baptist Church BLOCK PARTY

(We will have more details next week)

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

CCA needs a few lunchtime volunteers, most urgently during the first 2 periods, to assist the cafeteria staff. If you can volunteer during one or more weekdays from 11:15 – 12:15; 12:15 – 1:15; or 11:15 – 1:15, please stop in, call, or email me ( This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it ) to help.

ABOUT THOSE PROGRESS REPORTS . . . A REMINDER

Progress Reports are just that . . . a report on the progress made to date as well as a report on progress that needs to be made to ensure academic success. What is often not mentioned is that it is (or may be) a “Wake-Up Call” for parents and children alike. It is not the Report Card! (That will come Friday, November 16th)