May 2012 . Issue 9 . Volume 9
The Calgary Science School
Principal’s Message There are a number of significant events happening at CSS right now. Our school evaluation has wrapped up and we have received preliminary results. I can’t give too many details until the results are released for public consideration later this month, but suffice it to say that the results were very positive and I am extremely pleased with the outcome. In addition to the evaluation, the Minister of Education recently made it possible for Charter Schools to pursue an application for a 15-year charter. More details can be found on page 5 of this issue of the Spectrum, but we are moving forward with an application for the extended charter. I encourage you to come to the May 2 School Council meeting to hear more about this from our Superintendent, Dr. Garry McKinnon. As if this weren’t enough, our spring outdoor education programs are beginning. Students and staff are very excited to be embarking on our annual trip to Fort Steele, over to Jasper, and, for our grade nines, up to Camp Sweet for
a wrap up to their year. We are also considering the possibility of looping at grade 8 and 9. We currently have our teachers looping with students from grade 6 to 7, where the teachers move with the students to the subsequent grade. We have seen many benefits of looping and are seriously considering a similar arrangement at grade 8 and 9 for the 2012-2013 school year. I invite you to come to the School Council meeting to hear more about it and ask me questions if you have them. I would also encourage you to contact me any time if you have questions or concerns about the school and our programs, or if you have feedback you would like me to hear. I welcome the opportunity to touch base with parents and hear about your experiences in the school. Darrell Lonsberry
1 www.calgaryscienceschool.com