April Spectrum Newsletter

APRIL 2012 . Issue 8 . Volume 9

The Calgary Science School

Principal’s Message There have been a number of student and staff accomplishments in the past couple of weeks that are worthy of celebrating. We sent teams of students to participate in the provincial debate championships, twelve wrestlers from CSS attended the provincial wrestling championships, and we have a very strong (and large) contingent of students who qualified for the Calgary Youth Science Fair, which will take place later in April. It is really worth recognizing and celebrating the fact that our students demonstrate excellence at such high levels in such diverse areas. I don’t have room in this article to name them all, but I do want to thank the coaches and mentors for our students. Mr. Hoyt-Hallett and Mr. Sonico organized the CSS Science Fair and many of the other math/science teachers supported their students in pulling their excellent science fair projects together. Mr. Hoyt-Hallett is also our debate coach and will be joining Ashish and Swarochish when they travel to compete in the National Debate Championships. Mr. Schmeichel gave up many Saturdays, early mornings, and a few after school times to support the CSS wrestling team. Of course, there are many other examples of student excellence and I encourage you to stay tuned to the Spectrum for further stories of CSS student success.

In addition to the Calgary Youth Science Fair, April also brings with it the start of our Spring Outdoor Education schedule.

Please take note of the calendar in this Spectrum as well as the website calendar which outline when each Spring trip is taking place. Parent meetings will be taking place in April for the May trips and I encourage all parents to attend the appropriate parent meeting. Even if you have attended in the past because of an older sibling, I still encourage you to attend the upcoming meeting, as we sometimes make improvements to trips that we would like parents to be aware of.

This year April also brings us to registration time. You should have all received notice that registration for the 2012-2013 school year opens on April 9 and closes on April 16. Fees are due at the time of registration and I would like to remind parents that there is a bursary fund available to assist any families who may need some support in paying school fees. Parents needing to access the bursary fund should contact me.

I hope you all enjoy a fantastic and well-deserved Spring Break. See you back on April 9.

Darrell Lonsberry Principal

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

1

10

Transportation Update April 2012

Volunteer Route Coordinator Needed

12

Volunteers from all routes are always welcome. At this time, the committee is specifically looking for a coordinator for Route 10. The committee members meet several times per year to assist with route design and act as liaisons for parents throughout the year.

Interested volunteers can contact the committee at transportationatcss@gmail.com .

access that fund.

•

Refunds are pro-rated for withdrawals by March 31, 2013. There is no refund for withdrawals after this date.

•

The fee is pro-rated for service starting after Oct 1, 2012.

Service will only be provided if the bus has space.

• •

There is a new provincial requirement to ensure that the bus aisles are clear when students are seated. Bus capacity is not a fixed number but depends on the nature of the students riding the bus.

•

Until now CSS buses have been designated as full when half the seats held 3 students.

•

The guideline to meet the new requirement is to seat grade 4 – 6 students at 3/seat and grade 7 -9 students at 2/seat. This is only a guideline. The routes will be reviewed after school starts to make sure that the aisles can be kept clear.

•

Planning will be challenging. Routes may fill up quickly so please register early to be guaranteed a seat. This is especially important on the crowded west side routes.

•

The most likely outcome is that the west side routes will have space for all the west side riders. If that is not the case, then:

Important Registration Information

8

APRIL 2012

in this issue

Transportation Update................................................ 3 Experiencing Student Led Conferences.......... 4 - 5 Spring Outdoor Ed. Parent Info Meetings............. 5 Mission: Flash Mob.................................................. 6 - 7 Choir................................................................................... 7 Grade 6 Band................................................................... 8 FAQ: Grade 6 Band Program..................................... 9 Handbell Choir..............................................................10 Grade 8/9 Band.............................................................10 School Council News..................................................11 Performing and Visual Arts Photos................12 - 13

Board of Directors Highlights .............................14 - 15 Parenting Power Workshop Info................................. 15 Connect! Blog Highlights.............................................. 16 Community Garden Update.........................................17 2011/12 Staff Photo Directory............................ 18 - 19 Junior Boys Basketball.................................................... 20 Senior Boys Basketball.................................................... 21 Junior Girls Basketball.....................................................22 Sport Squad Badminton................................................23 April Calendar....................................................................24 May Calendar.....................................................................25

Cover Photo: The Grade 6 Band, directed by Mr. Bolen, performing at the Kiwanis Music Festival at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium.

2

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

Registration for 2012 – 2013 transportation will take place April 9 – 16. Keep this information in mind as you register.

Register with payment before April 16 to be guaranteed a seat.

Fees •

The bussing fee for next year is $760.00

•

The non-refundable portion is $100.

•

The fee is reduced for families with 3 or more riders. The first two siblings pay 100% of the fee and the rest pay 25%.

•

CSS does not offer reduced fees for part time riding.

•

There is a non-refundable late fee of $100 charged for registration after April 16. This late fee does not apply to families who are offered spots at CSS after April 16 and register for transportation at the same time as they complete their CSS registration.

•

Temporary bus use is available for $7.00/day for a maximum of 20 school days.

Payment

Bus Capacity

•

1. Seats on a route will be assigned in the order that registrations are received.

2. A wait list will be started in the event that the west side routes do not have space for all.

3. An extra stop, located on the west side, will be added to another route to accommodate these students.

4. These students will be moved to their preferred route as soon as space becomes available.

•

The full fee is due at the time of registration. The previous practice of offering two installments required extra admin time, and therefore increased costs, and has been discontinued.

Please register as early as possible to allow us to plan routes that will accommodate as many riders as possible.

Registration after April 16 will only be accepted if space is available.

•

Families may make personal arrangements for fee payment by contacting Nola Shewfelt in the CSS office.

•

Bursary assistance is available for families who are unable to pay the fees and may require some support. Contact the Principal to discuss and whether you are eligible to

Email me at margaretmills@calgaryscienceschool.com if you have any questions about CSS transportation. Questions about the registration process should be directed to the CSS office at 403 282 2890.

Margaret Mills CSS Transportation Analyst

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

3

experiencing

Student Led Conferences

If you are a parent reading this, student-led conferences are probably not part of your childhood memories. After receiving your report card, you likely remember a day or evening where your parents headed off to school to meet your teacher(s) while you stayed home, possibly waiting in dread.

Your parents return likely brought either a cheery “Well done, keep it up!” or else a serious sit-down lecture, punctuated with phrases like “Pull up your socks” or “Pay more attention in class!”

hear in her words how she’s doing. She’s leading the dialogue.

It’s a feedback loop,” she concludes. Her daughter Maya also seems positive about the process. “I’m fine showing my Mom what I’m learning,” she states.

In another grade 4 classroom, Stephen Wince sits with his son Michael as Michael shares his blog reflection on a science experiment. Stephen points out that the student-led format does not exclude him from talking to his son’s teachers when he has a question or concern. “If there’s a need to discuss Well, a very different kind of event follows the issuing of something, we can,” he explains. Indeed, ongoing dialogue report cards here at CSS. Wandering the halls and peering between parents and teachers is both welcome and encourinto classrooms on the morning of Friday, March 9 revealed aged at CSS and not reserved for one occasion each term. students at the center of the process, demonstrating their learning to their parents. Student-led conferences present parents with the opportunity to see their child’s understanding of their learning first-hand. Whether explaining the objectives of a science experiment, how they arrived at a math solution, describing their use of simile and metaphor in descriptive writing, or illuminating the inspiration behind an art project, parents are provided with an authentic, firsthand window into their child’s learning.

Students are anything but a passive participant in the process. Rather, student-led conferences ensure that students aren’t cut off from a review of their learning. In preparing for and participating in a student-led conference, students engage in a process of reflection and self-evaluation, both of which are key elements of Exemplary Learning at the Calgary Science School (see http://calgaryscienceschool.blogspot. com/2011/03/exemplary-teaching-and-learning.html for an overview). Pride of ownership is evident as students showcase and explain their work. Parents are also afforded the opportunity to probe their student’s understanding through dialogue.

Marcy McAuley, the parent of a grade 4 CSS student, appreciates the student-led approach. “It’s hard to get info out of kids. The value is sitting down with her and being able to

CSS Spring Outdoor Education Parent Info Meetings Trip Gr 5 & 7 Fort Steele Gr 4 Southern Alberta History Tour Gr 8 Rocky Mountain Tour

4

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

Date Wednesday, April 11 Wednesday, April 18 Wednesday, April 18

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Location Gym and IAC Gym IAC

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

5

of CSS students and one very brave CSS parent. Several other CSS students, parents, and teachers showed up and cheered the group on. And the flash mob certainly got attention from unsuspecting Saturday shoppers. “People were watching and cheered every song. People were coming out of stores to watch,” concludes Lauren L. Both Aaron and Lauren would like to be part of a flash mob again. “Maybe a Christmas flash mob!” predicts Lauren.

CSS, consider yourself warned!

The CSS flash mob surprising and entertaining shoppers at Southcentre Mall on Saturday, March 3.

CHOIR

Mission:

Flash Mob!

That ever-handy resource, Wikipedia, describes a flash mob as: a group of people who assemble suddenly in a public place, perform an unusual and seemingly pointless act for a brief time, then disperse, often for the purposes of entertainment, satire, and artistic expression.

Well, a group of grade 7 students decided it was time to put a CSS spin on the flash mob trend. And though they would probably argue with the “pointless” aspect of the aforementioned description, they certainly entertained a number of unsuspecting Calgarians shopping at Southcentre Mall on a typical Saturday afternoon in February.

that would both turn heads but still be doable by anyone in the CSS community, both young and old, whether dance superstars or the not-so-coordinated. “It was fun because the moves were cool,” states Aaron K. of 7.1. Pop classics “Car Wash” and “Walking On Sunshine” were initially selected to serve as the soundtrack for the dance routine. Mrs. Kelly suggested a slower song to balance the rhythm out and Celine Dion’s classic “My Heart Will Go On” (from the movie Titanic, in case you weren’t alive in the 90s) was soon added to round out a setlist of parts of 5 songs, stretching from the 70s to today.

The idea of creating a CSS flash mob was brought forward to Mrs. Kelly by a group of 7.1 and 7.2 students. “We were expecting Mrs. Kelly to blow it off but the next class she said ‘We’re going to do a flash mob.’ She was excited about the idea,” explains 7.2’s Lauren L. Once Mrs. Kelly put her stamp of approval on the idea, it was time to let the creative juices flow and come up with a choreographed dance routine

In all, 22 CSS students participated, along with a few friends

6

Once the 7.1 and 7.2 classes had perfected their dance routine, it was time to invite all of CSS to join up and get their groove on. Morning announcements, school posters, and e-mails home helped spread the word and following several recess and after-school rehearsals, it was time for the bright lights of the mall.

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

If you happen to walk the halls of CSS during a Wednesday lunch hour, you’ll likely stumble upon the beautiful sounds of the CSS Choir rehearsing for an upcoming performance.

The choir has been a mainstay at the school for many years.

This year’s edition, led by Ms. Couillard and Ms. Groeller, already has several public performances under their belt.

Forming in the fall, the choir performed for the winter Christmas Concert, the Peace Festival assembly, the recent “Spring Fling” Performing and Visual Arts showcase where they set the mood perfectly with Sing of the Spring, and also

entered into the Kiwanis Music Festival, where they performed at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium.

The group performs both traditional choir pieces as well as more contemporary favorites. The choir is open to all CSS students, grades 4 - 9, both boys and girls. There is no audition required to participate. The choir will be accepting new members upon resumption of classes after the spring break so all interested students are encouraged to contact either Ms. Couillard or Ms. Groeller.

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

7

Grade 6 Band

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: GRADE 6 BAND PROGRAM Do all Grade 6 students participate in the Band program?

Yes, each Grade 6 class has Band instruction built into their timetable, roughly one period every other day.

What is the purpose and benefits of the Band program?

The goal of the Grade 6 Band program is to give every Grade 6 student the opportunity to learn an instrument and play in a band. Learning to read music and play a musical instrument are obvious benefits. As well, research has shown that students who participate in music education generally do better in math and reading. Additionally, it’s our experience that the Band program helps develop a strong community identity and bond amongst Grade 6 students who share the experience and challenges of learning an instrument and performing together. This year, roughly 40% of Grade 7 students chose to continue in the Band program.

How long has the Grade 6 Band program existed at CSS? This is the second year of the program. 2010-11 was the first.

FALL: Beginners “Squeak and Squawk” Concert (October) WINTER: Christmas Concert (December)

How are the instruments allocated to students?

SPRING: Kiwanis Music Festival (March)

Grade 5 students have an opportunity in May to play all the brass and woodwind instruments. They then choose their first, second, and third choice. Whenever possible they will get their 1st choice depending on the cost, balance of instruments in each class, and success of playing that instrument.

Typically, roughly the following distribution is sought for each individual grade 6 class:

There are typically 4 major performances each year:

were enthusiastic about the feedback they received from the adjudicator, who was impressed with how quickly the students had learned their instruments. “The beginning songs were strong!“ states Rachel. “Our later songs were weaker,” assessed Palveen. “We were also told that the louder, low brass instruments need to be heard more clearly,” added Hamish.

The challenge of teaching all 100 grade 6 students a brand new instrument is no small undertaking but Mr. Bolen is clear on the philosophy behind the program. “Learning an instrument is like learning a language. You need to stick with it for an extended period of time,” he explains. Indeed, all of the grade 6 students spoken to expressed enthusiasm and excitement about the opportunity they’ve been given to learn a new instrument and be part of a performing band. However, learning their instruments was no easy task. “The fingering was difficult,” relates Victoria T. describing her first encounters with her flute. “Learning scales was tough,”adds trombonist Dylan P.

Grade 6 students will have one last public performance, the CSS June Summer Solstice Celebration, to put the advice they received at the Kiwanis into action. Don’t miss it!

The band’s first public performance was a unique “Beginning Concert”, also lovingly known as “The Squeak and Squawk” where their parents were not only the audience, but also took on the role of music students, as violinist Hamish M. explains.

“Our parents sat beside us during the concert so we could teach them our instruments,” he explains. December saw the band performing for the annual CSS Christmas Concert, which was followed by their aforementioned recent entry into the Kiwanis Music Festival at the prestigious Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Flutists Rachel L. and Palveen B.

8

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

Do students always perform as one band?

They perform as one group for all but the Kiwanis Festival, for which they are split into two groups. Half the group performs while the other half listens, allowing students to observe and assess themselves, both in regards to their specific instrument and as a whole group.

How often does the Grade 6 Band perform?

Fresh off their performance at the recent Kiwanis Music Festival, the Grade 6 Band program is a great example of what the CSS Performing and Visual Arts program is all about. Under the tutelage of Mr. Bolen, students have learned to read music and perform as one group. Quite an accomplishment, having only been introduced to their instruments in the fall.

Please note: Grade 5 Band Parent Info Night Wed. April 11 6:00 pm in the CSS Gym

SUMMER: Year End Concert (June) Is there a time commitment outside of school hours (i.e. early morning or after school rehearsals)?

Other than the aforementinoed performances, at the grade 6 level there is no extra commitment outside of class time to rehearse other than practicing the instrument at home.

5 Flutes 5 Clarinets 2 Alto Sax 1 Tenor Sax 5 Trumpets 2 French Horns 3 Trombones 2 Baritones Not every class ends up with this configuration as it’s our experience that when students receive their 1st choice instrument, they are more likely to practice and enjoy the instrument, which is the fundamental goal of the program.

What is the cost to parents of participation in the Band program?

Families are responsible for the rental of instruments, which varies between $200 - $400 depending on the instrument.

For more information, please attend the Grade 5 Band Parent Info Night, Wednesday, April 11, 6:00 pm in the CSS gym. Or contact Mr. Bolen: andrew.b@calgaryscienceschool.com

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

9

HANDBELL CHOIR

GRADE 8/9 BAND

School Council News

April 2012

Two engaging topics resulted in another large turn-out for our March School Council meeting, with about 20 parents braving wintry roads. Thanks to everyone who attended. Your active participation makes it possible to provide meaningful advice to the CSS leadership team.

Attendees offered input on a new CSS communication and marketing plan being developed by independent consultant Serita Rana. Here’s a sampling of some of the questions Serita was asking:

Recently, the grade 8/9 band embarked on a challenging mission. The challenge was to perform a variety of musical pieces, including songs such as Soul Man, the James Bond Theme, Mission Impossible, and many more. Soon it was time for our big performance at the “Spring Fling” Performing and Visual Arts concert. Although we hit a few speed bumps in practice over the course of the last two months, the ending performance was worth it. According to the band and audience alike, this concert was an outstanding success and a wonderful improvement over previous performances.

This year’s CSS Handbell Choir consists of 18 grade 4-6 students. The choir is led by Ms. Groeller who is ably assisted by 3 student directors; Emily F. and Amanda and Megan C. The choir performed at the CSS Christmas Concert as well as the Kiwanis Music Festival, where they were adjudicated and received an evaluation of “Very Good”. The group’s final performance will take place at the CSS Summer Solstice Celebration in June.

The choir is currently at full capacity but interested students are encouraged to participate in the coming school year. Ms. Groeller points out that no musical experience is necessary.

“Handbells are accessible to anyone, even those who don’t know much about music. Everyone can have fun and play music!” she enthusiastically states.

She’s also quick to point out that there’s lots to learn when it comes to playing handbells. “Handbells can be easily learned, but finessing the sound is tough. Practicing often and getting to know how the bells you play sound are really important so you can learn how to control the volume and tone of the bell,” she explains. Due to the high level of interest expressed by students, next year may see two handbell choirs running concurrently.

10

I believe this performance proved the capabilities of our grade 8/9 band and expressed the overall skill of our performers. Learning and performing these pieces of music proved to be a fantastic achievement for me and for all students who performed.

Anton S. 8.3

What attracted your family to the Calgary Science School?

•

What research or due diligence did you do before deciding to enroll your child(ren) at the Calgary Science School?

•

What do you consider to be unique about the Calgary Science School?

•

How do you think attending CSS benefits your child(ren)?

•

What are the strengths of the Calgary Science School?

•

How does CSS compare to other public charter and district schools?

•

What adjectives would you use to describe the Calgary Science School?

If you haven’t yet had the opportunity to share your answers to these questions with Serita, feel free to email schoolcouncil@calgaryscienceschool.com and we’ll forward your input.

A little later in the evening, everyone participated in a wideranging and open discussion about outdoor education, one of the pillars of the CSS charter document. The Calgary Science School Board of Directors will be reviewing an updated Outdoor Education Plan before the end of the school year, so parents took advantage of the opportunity to provide early input in the development of this plan. Suggestions and feedback were offered on many topics, including: •

Possible ways of enhancing the rigour of the Outdoor Education program, with a plan for skills development (such as map reading, using a compass, trip planning, first aid, etc.) and day hiking experiences that would culminate in the opportunity to do an overnight backpacking trip;

•

Putting a bit more emphasis on explaining the linkages between these trips and what’s being learned in the classroom;

•

Safety (axe safety, food safety, equipment & gear checks

Important Upcoming Band Dates

• Wednesday, April 11 - Grade 5 Band Parent Info Night 6:00 pm at CSS Gym • Tuesday, May 22 - Grade 7-9 Provincial Band Festival Red Deer • Tuesday, June 12 - Summer Solstice Celebration Performances at 2:00 and 7:00 pm

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

•

to ensure students go off to camp with those key items that help ensure their safety, etc.); •

Continuing to hold a gear swap each August, to provide CSS families with access to affordable outdoor education gear;

•

Ways to better support our parent volunteers (including a general job description for each camp, additional documentation in the camp binder, etc.);

•

Ideas related to the grade 9 Bamfield trip, especially in terms of making the cost of the trip as manageable as possible for all CSS families; and

•

Continuing to pursue Environmental Education as something separate from, but very related to, Outdoor Education (for example, “leave no trace” is a philosophy that we generally want our students to follow, while at the same time we recognize there is tremendous experiential learning when our students are set free to build forts in the woods at Camp Sweet).

If you have ideas on these and other topics related to Outdoor Education, please email schoolcouncil@calgaryscienceschool. com or darrell.l@calgaryscienceschool.com.

Other highlights from the meeting included an update on the Saturday, April 14th Parenting Power Workshop: “Teens and Attitude”. A paper notice was sent home right around the time of student-led conferences and a copy of the advertisement appears on page 15 of this edition of the Spectrum.

Tickets are $5 each and can be purchased at the CSS office.

Please watch your inbox for the order form for our second Balzac Meats sale, timed just right to stock your freezer for the upcoming BBQ season. This will be the last Balzac Meats sale this school year.

Finally, I’d like thank all of you who volunteer your time to CSS but don’t make it out to our School Council meetings. Under the amazing leadership of our Parent Volunteer Committee, ably assisted by our Classroom/Pod Reps, many of you volunteer for day trips, in our classrooms, and in other ways that allow the school community to benefit from your time, energy, and expertise. Thank you for everything you do!

Please email schoolcouncil@calgaryscienceschool.com if you have a question or would like to suggest a topic for discussion at an upcoming school council meeting. There is no School Council meeting in April, on account of Spring Break.

Our next regular meeting will be Wednesday, May 2.

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

11

PE R F O R M I N G A N D V I S UA L A R T S C E L E B R AT I O N M A R C H 1 5 12

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

13

Board of Directors Highlights

From the March 20 Meeting

Grade 5 Science Class Presentation Grade 5 science teachers Mr. Greg Neil and Ms. Valerie Barnes attended the board meeting to share some background information in regard to the “Off the Grid” project and research study. A bicycle apparatus in the classroom was used to generate electricity and the students were involved in energy conservation initiatives. The teachers generated a very good discussion about a number of strategies to promote energy conservation and create a sustainable school.

Exemplary Teaching and Learning in the Calgary Science School Commendations were extended to grade 6 teacher Mrs. Carolyn Armstrong and her students who have taken on the role of scientists in working with outside experts in researching the impact of the Pine Beetle on wood quality.

Calgary Science School Evaluation By all accounts the school evaluation, which occurs once every five years for charter schools ,was a positive, reaffirming learning experience. The evaluation team will prepare a report which will be submitted to Alberta Education and presented at the April 17 meeting of the Board of Directors.

School Evaluation team leader Bill Hoppins expressed commendations for the wealth of detailed information which was provided to the team and the spirit of warm hospitality from students and staff experienced by the evaluation team members. He indicated that the team members were very impressed with the school and they saw “great evidence of exemplary learning and teaching”. The success of the school evaluation is certainly a credit to the Board of Directors and each and every staff member. It has been a celebration of exemplary work and all that the Calgary Science School represents.

2012 – 2013 School Year Budget The Audit and Finance Committee and Secretary-Treasurer presented an overview of the draft budget for the 2012 – 2013 school year which was prepared by the school leadership team. Following a consultation process, it is proposed that the 2012-2013 school year budget, which must be submitted to Alberta Education by May 30, be approved by the Board of Directors at the April 17 meeting.

14

School Fees for the 2012 – 2013 School Year Associated with the budget preparation process, the Board approved fees for the next school year. The enrichment fee of $475 (which covers the cost of student computers, student learning resources, some outdoor education experiences, etc.) and lunchroom fee of $50 will remain at the same level as the current school year. The transportation fee will be reduced from $830 to $760 (due to the reinstatement of a fuel subsidy by Alberta Education). The laptop insurance fee will remain at $60.

Charter renewal for the Calgary Science School The board passed a motion to proceed with an application for a 15 year charter renewal in accordance with the revised Alberta Education regulations.

Collaboration with the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University The Board was informed of several collaborative projects and proposed initiatives with the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University, designed to enhance learning and teaching in the Calgary Science School and beyond.

Alberta Education Feedback on the CSS Education Plan/Annual Educational Results Report An Alberta Education letter of commendation in regard to the Education Plan/Annual Educational Results Report submitted to Alberta Education was presented and commendations were expressed to staff members who were involved in preparing the documents celebrating accomplishments and outlining plans for the future. The documents are available for viewing on the school website.

ed that there will be 300 participants from Canada and the U.S. representing teachers, students, and parents who are interested in sharing innovative practices that are happening all around Canada. The focus of the conference will be on promoting open dialogue and the sharing of ideas around key innovations in education. There will be a number of Calgary Science School staff involved in facilitating sessions.

Registration information is available on the school website Connect! Blog (http://calgaryscienceschool.blogspot.ca).

ConnectEd Canada Conference 2012

Alberta Education and The Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools (TAAPCS) Meetings

The Board was informed of all the work that has been done in preparing the Calgary Science School to host the first ever ConnectEd Canada conference, May 25 to 27. It is anticipat-

An update on recent meetings involving Alberta Education and The Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools was presented.

parenting

Mount Royal University/Grade 8 Humanities Project Information was shared in regards to an engaging program involving Mount Royal University faculty working with the CSS grade 8 humanities teachers and students on a series of learning experiences at both our school and the university.

The project is focused on bridging the gap between humanities and the sciences and studying how ideas can go viral, mirroring the process in which viruses spread.

Pink Shirt Day The board was informed of programs and initiatives to create and maintain a healthy caring climate in the school and to address issues of bullying. The initiatives include the Pink Shirt Day on February 29, which was a culmination of the efforts of the Me to We elective students in raising awareness of bullying.

Report cards & student led conferences Commendations were extended to staff and students for their involvement in the successful student-led conferences on March 8 and 9, which are designed to inform parents and showcase student learning.

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

Saturday, April 14

workshop

Teens and Attitude: Why Does It Happen and What Can I Do? ™

This workshop offers developmental reasons for your teen’s behaviour, how to set and express realistic expectations for your teen, and strategies (for you and your teen) to survive adolescence.

Schedule 8:00 - 8:45 Yoga in the IAC with Leah Roubekas

of Back 2 Basics Fitness www.leahroubekas.com 8:45 - 9:00 Registration and continental breakfast 9:00 - 9:20 Welcome and introductions 9:20 - 11:50 Workshop: Teens and Attitude www.parentingpower.ca 11:50 - 12:00 Wrap up 12:00 - 12:30 Chair stacking, clean up, and informal networking.

Location: Calgary Science School Gym Cost: $5 per person Tickets: Available in advance through Apr. 10

in the office Continental Breakfast Provided Complimentary on-site babysitting www.calgaryscienceschool.com

15

On the Connect! blog now http://calgaryscienceschool.blogspot.ca or click on the link at the top of http://www.calgaryscienceschool.com Valerie Barnes describes what happens when Grade 5 students use multiple math strategies to show proof of their mathematical reasoning in “The Cat Food Problem”.

Grade 5 Humanities teacher Tanya Stogre ponders her next step in creating authentic parent engagement in the Calgary Science School.

With the goal of developing a better understanding among students of their progress in Physical Education, Dean Schmeichel reflects on his use of video assessment vs traditional report card comments.

In the Grade 8 Magazine Project, Dave Scott brings a graphic design professional into the classroom to provide multiple authentic feedback loops as students create and publish their own magazine.

CS

S LCG

community

GARDEN

201

2

••• Growing Meaningful Connections ••• The opportunity to make connections with the local community is easier said than done. Charter schools like the Calgary Science School bus the majority of students in from all over the city, often reducing the opportunities for connections with residents in the local community.

However, we at the Calgary Science School have the privilege of being located in Lakeview, with numerous residents willing to support many of our initiatives, such as the Community Garden. Specifically, through the Community Garden, I have had the pleasure over the past year and a half to get to know and work with several Lakeview residents.

One example of the amazing support from residents was on our wet, muddy, and cool build day which took place last year on the first Saturday in June. We had many residents from Lakeview come and help with their tools and smiles, several of whom did not even have a plot in the garden!

Our year two planning is in full swing, especially thanks to Judy Osinski who represents the Lakeview Community Association, and all of her hard work in getting us organized.

Now that the garden is built we are very excited to continue to grow our connections! Already, we have Grade 6 Math/ Science teacher Candice Shaw partnering with plot holder and Lakeview resident Allie Tulick as part of Ms. Shaw’s Lifelong Learning elective. In addition to learning hands-on gardening skills, students will work with Ms. Tulick in learning how to plan and plant a garden plot. This is just one example of the connections our teachers are excited about and interested in having with Lakeview residents.

Stay tuned for additional information on the happenings in the Lakeview Community Garden and our growing connections!

Tanya Stogre Gr. 5 Humanities and CSS Community Garden Coordinator

grade 4 students participating in “fitness mini-golf”

The Connect! blog serves as a place for CSS teachers to share classroom projects, assignments, and assessment practices of the Calgary Science School with the wider education world.

It’s a forum where teachers and administrators publicly reflect and engage in dialogue on their practice and build a learning network outside the walls of our school.

16

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

17

CSS Staff

Garry McKinnon Superintendent

Deirdre Bailey 4.1/4.2 Math/Science

Greg Neil 5.1/5.2 Math/Science

Carolyn Armstrong 6.1/6.2 Math/Science

Lisa Nelson 7.1/7.2 Math/Science

18

Darrell Lonsberry Principal

Jacquie Moir 4.1/4.2 Humanities

Tanya Stogre 5.1/5.2 Humanities

Rick Fawcett 6.1/6.2 Humanities

Dan McWilliam 7.1/7.2 Humanities

2011/2012 2011/2012 CSS Staff Scott Petronech

Phil Butterfield Assistant Principal

Assist. Prin./Ed Technologist

Amy Park 4.3/4.4 Humanities

Heather Fawcett 4.3/4.4 Math/Science

Valerie Barnes 5.3/5.4 Math/Science

Mike Neufeld 5.3/5.4 Humanities

Cndice Shaw 6.3/6.4 Math/Science

Jason Publack 6.3/6.4 Humanities

John Cadman 7.3/7.4 Math/Science

Jody Pereverzoff 7.3/7.4 Humanities

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

Erin Couillard

PD/Outreach Coordinator

Jessica Kelly Drama/Dance

Jenny Trinh 5.3/5.4 Humanities

Tammy Berry Physical Education

Dean Schmeichel Physical Education

Kevin Sonico 8.1/8.2 Math/Science

Garett Kutcher 9.1/9.2 Math/Science

Lorrie Emin Art

Shannon Mitchell Flek Counsellor

Felipe Calasin Facility Operator

Shashi Shergill 8.1/8.2 Humanities

Ivy Waite 9.1/9.2 Humanities

Nola Shewfelt

Administrative Secretary

Andrew Bolen Music

Mingdi Fu Caretaker

Margaret Leland 8.1/8.2 Humanities

Jon Hoyt-Hallet 9.3/9.4 Math/Science

Kathy Babiuk Receptionist

Michelle Hodgson Library Assistant

Mirtala Campos Cleaner

Louis Cheng 8.3/8.4 Math/Science

David Scott 8.3/8.4 Humanities

Jaime Groeller 9.3/9.4 Humanities

Donna K. Johnson Alden Teacher-Librarian

Susan Miller Office Assistant

Myra Penberthy Secretary Treasurer

Abby Saadeh Differentiated Learning

Dila Galvis Cleaner

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

Krista Brenner Accounting Specialist

Oscar Lopez Cleaner

19

Junior Girls Basketball

Senior Boys Basketball

Back Row (L-R) Ms. Waite, Osereme, Claire, Joelle, Quinn, Maggie, Lauren, Heather, Ms. Trinh, Ms. Sanchez Front Row (L-R) Angel, Paige, Taylor, Maitri, Mallory

Standing (L-R) Mr. Tam, Arash N, Connor N, Nick H, Rocky W, Evan D, Braden L, Martin P, Swarochish G, Akashdeep B, Adrian H, Edward K, Nicholas B, Mr. Cadman Sitting (L-R) Ashish K, Dilyaad B Missing: Sheldon V, Mr. Kutcher

This year’s edition of Lasers Junior Girls Basketball recently completed a successful season which saw huge improvement for a team made up mostly of girls trying basketball for the first time. The team completed their schedule of exhibition games with only one loss. Quite impressvie for a team lacking experience.

The girls were also quickly exposed to the phsycial nature of basketball. “We weren’t too aggressive with each other in the beginning. We didn’t know what was allowed and what wasn’t,” states Osereme. “Then we played our first game and the other team was very pushy. We reaiized how we needed to play.”

This year’s edition of Lasers Senior Boys basketball was characterized by tough defence and a cohesive team spirit which took the boys all the way to the city final.

When asked what motivated them to join the team, the girls provided a range of reasons for playing basketball. “I wanted the experience of being on a team,” explained Heather. Her teammate Paige added her reason for joining up. “A friend and I decided to play. We were both encouraged to play by our parents. She ended up deciding to not play, while I did,” she described.

The girls proved to be quick learners and before long they saw marked improvement in their skills. “Our shooting really improved,” noted Maitri. “And we learned the rules.” She was also quick to recognize the team’s 3 coaches. “They made learning fun,” she concluded. “Our coaches were amazing,” added teammate Mallory.

Playing team basketball for the first time, there was definitely a lot to learn for the girls. “At the beginning they couldn’t really shoot, “ explained coach Ms. Sanchez, a former studentteacher at CSS. “It took a few weeks before they got the hang of it,” she added.

20

When asked to describe the team, each of the 3 coaches paused for a moment. Then Ms. Sanchez offered a one-word summary; “Lively!” she concluded, which was immediately met with laughter and agreement from Ms. Waite and Ms. Trinh. “They’re a lot of fun,” Ms. Waite concluded.

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

The team was a mix of enthusiastic grade 8s and experienced grade 9s and was ably led by Mr. Cadman, Mr. Kutcher and student-teacher Mr. Tam. According to Coach Cadman, the boys came a long way over the course of the season.

“Their development was amazing,” he stated. “The team started off with great enthusiasm and decent skill, but little discipline. They played as individuals, not as a team,” he continued. “Over the course of 3 plus months, they really gelled as a group.” Grade 9 member Edward agreed with his coach’s assessment. “We all get along well. It was fun,” he added.

Coach Cadman also viewed some early season losses as a

blessing in disguise. “Those losses really focused our energy as we proceeded through the season toward the playoffs.”

The team picked up steam as the season went on, hitting their stride as the playoffs approached. Coach Cadman was clear on the secret to their success. “Our defence was really the shining light in the season. It grew in leaps and bounds.”

Grade 9 member Arash concurred with his coach’s assessment. “Defence was our strength,” agreed Arash. He was quick to give credit to their coaches. “Mr. Cadman was very supportive,“ he summarized. “And enthusiastic,” added Edward.

As for getting to the final, the boys were philosophical about their defeat. “We thought we could beat Ecole de la Rose Sauvage in the final, but they were good,” stated Arash.

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

21

Junior Boys Basketball

SPORT SQUAD BADMINTON EVERY SATURDAY FROM APRIL 21 - MAY 19

et acqu r s e clud ion 50 in .

8 7 truct $ s n i and

Back Row (L-R) Mr. Scott, Aaron K, Logan K, Sean H, Aidan J, Alex K Front Row (L-R) Michael W, Sanchit C, Sean W, Paul D, Aman K This year’s Junior Boys Basketball, led by Mr. Scott, was a mix of basketball experience and players brand new to the sport which slowly developed into a cohesive unit.

steady improvement. “He pushed us,” observed Aman. “Our defence really improved. We ended up looking like a real team.”

“We were terrible at the beginning,” stated grade 7 student Aman K. “It took us a half hour just to complete 4 consecutive breakaway lay ups.” Teammate Michael W shared this evaluation. “We didn’t have much teamwork,” he added.

The boys sighted a thrilling 1 point victory over Webber Academy as a season highlight. In perhaps the greatest measure of success, when asked whether they planned to play basketball again next year, to a man they all gave an enthusiastic “Yes!”. Well done, boys!

Players were quick to give credit to Coach Scott for their

dryland curling in the iac!

GRADE 4-7 THERE ARE 2 SESSIONS AVAILABLE FOR GRADE 4/5 AND 2 SESSIONS AVAILABLE FOR GRADE 6/7. THERE ARE 24 SPOTS OPEN FOR EACH OF THE 4 SESSIONS: GRADE 4/5 - 10 AM & 11 AM GRADE 6/7 - 12 PM & 1 PM

REGISTER ON-LINE AT: http://bit.ly/sportsquad

CALGARY SCIENCE SCHOOL 5915 LEWIS DRIVE SW, CALGARY Contact Dean @ 403 589 1320 or schmeicheldean@gmail.com 22

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

23

maY 2012

APRIL 2012 1

2

3

4

S P R I N G 8

9

DAY 6 10

DAY 1 11

SCHOOL REGISTRATION OPENS

DAY 5 17

16

SCHOOL REGISTRATION CLOSES

6

7

DAY 6 18

board of directors meeting 5:00-8:30 PM

23

DAY 3 24

DAY 2 12

DAY 1

gr. 4 southern Alberta history Tour Parent info session 7:00 pm

DAY 4 25

DAY 3 13

DAY 4 14

19

DAY 2

21

20

7

13

pd/planning day

no classes

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

DAY 3

3

DAY 1 28

8

DAY 1

9

DAY 2

DAY 4

20

DAY 5

5

10

DAY 3

11

DAY 4

12 Fort Steele 5.4/7.4

FORT STEELE 5.3/7.3

14

DAY 5

15

DAY 6

16

21

22

DAY 3

23

band committee STATUTORY HOLIDAY meeting 8:30-9:30 am SCHOOL CLOSED

kids and drugs: parent info session 4 6:30-8:30 pm (Pre registration required)

4

FORT STEELE 5.1/7.1

DAY 1

17

DAY 2

PAT - GR 6 ELA board of direc- PART A - 9:00-11:00 AM 4.1/4.2 southern tors meeting alberta history 5:00-8:30 PM tour 4.1/4.2 southern alberta history PAT - GR 9 ELA PART A - 9:00-11:00 AM tour

no classes

DAY 6 27

DAY 6

FORT STEELE 5.2/7.2

27

30 pd/planning day

24

6

parenting power worshop 8:00 am-12:00 pm css gym

DAY 5 26

band committee meeting 8:30-9:30 am

29

DAY 2 2

B R E A K

gr. 8 rocky moutain tour parent info session 7:00 pm

22

1

SCHOOL COUNCIL MEETING

gr. 5 & 7 fort steele Parent info session - 7:00 pm

Classes Resume

15

5

28

DAY 1

8.1/8.2 Rocky mountain tour

29

DAY 2

30

DAY 4

DAY 3

18

19

pd/planning day no classes

24

31

DAY 5

DAY 4

25

1

DAY 6

26

2

8.3/8.4 Rocky mountain tour

www.calgaryscienceschool.com

25