The
Stampede WINTER 2023-2024
Oct. 17-21 - Upper Campus Peak Week Nov. 11-13 - All School Production of Momma Mia! Nov. 22 - Grandparents/Grand Friends Day 8:30 a.m. at the Lower Campus
Happy Holidays! HEAD OF SCHOOL MESSAGE
Dear Sierra Canyon Families, As we approach the end of another remarkable year, I am filled with gratitude for the extraordinary journey we have embarked on together. Sierra Canyon is a vibrant community that is unmatched. Thank you for your many contributions to the School and for entrusting us with your most precious possessions—your children. The following pages provide a glimpse of the breadth of talents demonstrated by our students. These remarkable accomplishments are a testament to the unwavering commitment of our students, the dedication of our passionate faculty and staff, and the support of our incredible community. Together, we have much to celebrate and many more accomplishments to look forward to in 2024! Stay healthy. Happy holidays. And enjoy the break!
Best wishes,
Jim Skrumbis Head of School
Lower School Chamber Ensemble
All-American High School Film Festival
6th Grade Science Lab
Academic Achievements FALL SEMESTER HIGHLIGHTS Upper School Architecture I
Upper Campus Wellness Wednesday
Upper Campus Winter Dance Showcase
3rd Grade Publishing Party
Upper School AP Statistics
4th Grade Trip to Solvang
7th Grade Trip to Camp Surf
1st Grade Trip to Heritage Square Museum
Pre-K Celebrated 50th Day of School
Upper School Drawing and Painting I
Upper Campus Volunteer Awards
Upper School Math Team earned 1st Place at Princeton Competition
Upper Campus Winter Music Concert
5th Grade Veterans Day Assembly
Student Diversity Leadership Conference
8th Grade Washington, D.C. Trip
Romeo and Juliet UPPER SCHOOL FALL PRODUCTION The Sierra Canyon Performing Arts Department opened its 2023-2024 season with a William Shakespeare classic, Romeo and Juliet, held at El Portal's Monroe Forum Theater. For two weekends in mid-November, the play featured a cast of 25 actors, providing a new level of performance for many of our students encountering Shakespeare on the stage for the first time. These student actors strive for artistic and creative excellence—as individuals and as an ensemble—fostering a shared sense of unity that creates an incredible atmosphere to perform and share their artistry with the School community. Cast and Crew Samaya B. ’27, Samantha B. ’24, Savanna C. ’27, Bianca C. ’25, Lily D. ’27, Margaret D. ’27, Zoe D. ’26, Eliza F. ’25, Lilian F. ’24, Aiden G. ’26, Ethan H. ’24, Sterling H. ’27, Harry J. ’26, Shane L. ’25, Hao “Miranda” H. ’25, Savannah M. ’25, Kamto N. ’24, Ian P. ’26, Alexander R. ’24, Ethan S. ’24, Ella S. ’25, Sarah S. ’27, Willow S. ’25, Sinead S. ’25, Nova T. ’25, Victoria V. ’24, and Eren Y. ’26
Trailblazer Pride MAKING SIERRA CANYON HISTORY The Sierra Canyon Athletics Program is recognized among the best in the country, and it continues to push boundaries and set records. This fall, the SC Stampede cheered the Trailblazers on to School history in many different sports: the Football Team won back-toback Mission League titles and advanced to the CIF-SS semi-finals for the first time at the prestigious Division 1 level; the Girls' Volleyball Team won back-to-back Mission League titles and were ranked in the Top 20 in the nation; the Girls' Golf Team embarked on their inaugural season; the competitive Cheer Team made their debut securing a spot at Nationals; the Girls' Tennis Team won back-to-back Angelus League titles and for the first time advanced a doubles team to the CIF-SS finals. The fall season was full of development for our Middle School student-athletes, with stand-out performances from our Girls' and Boys' Swim, Flag Football, Volleyball, and Cross Country Teams. Our youngest Trailblazers also found success this fall. The 6th Grade Girls’ Basketball and Football (B) Teams won the San Fernando Valley Private School League (SFVPSL) Championships. Also, the Lower School Swim Team made School history by finishing in second place in the SFVPSL.
MEET OUR
STUDENT LEADERSHIP
Student government teaches our students that they can make a difference at Sierra Canyon. These student leaders are vital in linking the student body to the administration, promoting positive change, and organizing community-building events. Meet the following students who have been elected by their peers to lead the Associated Student Body (Upper Campus) and Student Council (Lower Campus).
GEORGE Z. ‘24
MELISSA E. ‘25
What motivated you to become a part of ASB?: “I wanted to be able to create changes to my school community and explore my high school experience to the fullest.”
What motivated you to become a part of ASB?: “I wanted to make an impact by creating more activities and events for students in order to build a sense of community and school spirit.”
How has ASB contributed to your leadership development?: “It has contributed to my communication and coordination skills—these are things that I wouldn’t learn in any other class.”
How has ASB contributed to your leadership development?: “My public speaking skills have improved as I have grown more comfortable speaking in front of larger groups of people.”
Upper Campus President
Upper Campus Vice President
TAYLOR S. ‘30
EMMA J. ‘30
Lower Campus President
Lower Campus Vice President
What advice would you give a future Student Council member?: “If you have an idea you should not be afraid to take charge and proudly state that idea to everyone.”
What's your most memorable Student Council experience?: “The most memorable experience is being able to represent my fellow students with a positive outlook and optimistic approach.”
CREE M. ‘31
EMERSON F. ‘31
HANNAH C. ‘30
Lower Campus Treasurer
Lower Campus Secretary
Lower Campus Publicity Chair
What motivated you to become a part of Student Council?: “I thought I could be a good role model and learn from this experience of being Treasurer. I thought it would be fun, too!”
What do you hope you learn from Student Council?: “I hope I learn more communication skills and how to work better with different people even if we come across hardships.”
What motivated you to become a part of Student Council?: “My love for the School and for graphic design motivated me to join. My goal this year is to start a bulletin board space near the Barn!”
GUEST SPEAKER
SERIES
In an extraordinary display of diversity and influence, Sierra Canyon's fall semester brought a stellar lineup of guest speakers. The School welcomed these prominent figures to share their wisdom, expertise, and unique perspectives that inspired and enlightened students, faculty, and parents alike.
PRESIDENT VICENTE FOX In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Upper Campus students had the rare honor of hearing from globally renowned former Mexican President Vicente Fox. President Fox emphasized the importance of compassionate leadership and empowered Sierra Canyon students to embrace their unique backgrounds while always considering the well-being of others.
KENDALL JENNER The School's commitment to developing well-rounded and happy students set the foundation for a new initiative, Wellness Wednesday. The day included a student-led discussion with Sierra Canyon alum and mental health advocate Kendall Jenner. This insightful conversation with Ms. Jenner examined the importance of monitoring and fortifying one's emotional well-being.
RICH PAUL Sierra Canyon is a place where future leaders are cultivated and propelled toward lifelong success. For Upper Campus students to gain knowledge and expertise from celebrated sports agent and businessman Rich Paul was an invaluable experience that enriched their educational journey and empowered them to reach for greatness.
MICHAEL WETTER, PSYD, FAPA The Parent Association hosted its opening Parent Wellness event of the school year centered on helping children manage stress. The event featured Sierra Canyon parent and renowned adolescent psychology expert Dr. Michael Wetter, who delved into the sources of stress in adolescents, strategies for building resilience, and when it is essential to intervene. The session concluded with a Q&A portion, providing personalized insights for supporting our students.
STORM REID The Black Student Union (BSU) continued to showcase its commitment to meaningful dialogue by organizing a Q&A session featuring actress, producer, and community service advocate Storm Reid. As a current USC student, Ms. Reid's advice on challenges and success, mental health, and the need for balance was relatable and inspiring.
The Joy of Giving THE SIERRA CANYON FUND: VOICES OF THE FUTURE
WITH ONLY A FEW WEEKS LEFT IN THE CALENDAR YEAR, now is an important time to consider your annual gift to Sierra Canyon School. If you would like your gift counted within the 2023 tax year, it's easy to make a gift online at sierracanyonschool.org/give or scan the QR code below. We ask every family to make a meaningful contribution to the Sierra Canyon Fund annually. Each family has a different giving capacity, but all families have something very important in common—an appreciation for the education their child receives. Sierra Canyon is a special place, and the Fund allows the School to enhance the educational journey with unique experiences and programs that elevate the already great offerings you have come to expect. Thank you for making Sierra Canyon School your philanthropic priority.
Lower Campus, Pre-K – 6 11052 Independence Ave. Chatsworth, CA 91311
Upper Campus, 7 – 12 20801 Rinaldi St. Chatsworth, CA 91311