Dr. Lisa Chen, Principal, Louisa County Middle School, Mineral, VA

Friday, October 30, 2015

Principal's Update for October 30, 2015, part 2

Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends:

As referenced in the LCMS Principal Update October 30, this memo contains the three other documents.

The first one refers to the LCMS School Improvement Plan (SIP), which outlines our school’s goals for 2015-2018. Please see the attachment, “LCMS SIP 2015-2018.” Each year, based on parent and staff feedback, this document is reviewed. The LCMS SIP is aligned to the district goals. Our goal each year is to continue to make progress toward our targets and to review what has worked and what we still need to improve.

The October and November editions of Middle Years provide tips for parents about homework as well as how to speak to your teen about accepting responsibility. Please see the attachments, “October 2016” and “November 2016.

As always, please feel free to contact me at chenlc@lcps.k12.va.us if you have questions, concerns, or any feedback that you would like to share.

Thank you for your continual partnership with LCMS and for taking the time to read these updates.

With warm regards,
Lisa C. Chen
Lisa C. Chen, Ph.D.
Principal
Louisa County Middle School

Principal's Update for October 30, 2015

Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends:

In this update, I will be highlighting our report card from the Department of Education. (Please note that another principal update entitled, LCMS Principal Update October 30, part 2, will also be sent out to you later as I can only include three attachments for each message sent.)

Our Standards of Learning (SOL) tests indicate our highest growth from the past couple of years. 80% of all students passed their English SOL tests. 81% of all students passed their SOL Math tests. 92% of all students in Grade 8 passed their Civics and Economics tests, and 85% of all students in Grade 8 passed their Science SOL tests. Louisa County Middle Schools met its accreditation benchmark for 2015-2016 in the areas of English, Math, History, and Science.

Regarding the federal accountability level, LCMS made all of its Annual Measurable Objectives (AMOs) for all students, Gap Group 1 (students with disabilities, English language learners, and economically disadvantaged students), Group 2 (Black students), and Gap Group 3 (Hispanic students). Please see the attachment, “LCMS Report Card 2015” for more information. The accountability guide has also been attached for more information about what these scores mean. See attachment, “Accountability Guide 2015-2016.

While we continue to improve, my staff and I are cognizant that we still have areas to grow. As such, we continue to monitor our work for our students with disabilities in both Math and English, while at the same time ensuring that all students continue to be challenged.

We have also improved in the number of students receiving “Passed Advanced” in accelerated classes. In 2013-2014, 5 out of 40 students received “Passed Advanced” in the Geometry SOL test. In 2014-2015, 16 out of 22 students received “Passed Advanced” in the Geometry SOL test.
Our continual progress would not have occurred without the hard work of our teachers and the support of our parents and students!

Two such programs, which continue to offer our students supports are ACE Math and ACE Reading/English, occur only at certain consecutive weeks in the school year. The rest of that time is reserved for our teachers to re-teach and re-mediate what students have been taught previously. Thus, when the schedule indicates ACE Math or ACE Reading/Writing, it is only during that week that all students are receiving some form of math or reading/writing activities. Some students review previous concepts, while other students who have mastered these objectives receive enhancement activities.

When the schedule runs as [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1; 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 2; 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 3; 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4; and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5], that means that students are returning back to their first period class at the end of the day (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1), their second period class at the end of the day (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 2), their third period class at the end of the day (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 3), their fourth period class at the end of the day (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4), and their fifth period class at the end of the day (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5). This schedule provides both the teachers and students with additional time to re-teach what they have learned in class, to go over homework problems or assessments, and/or to be provided with an enhancement activity.

My staff and I further encourage any student who needs additional academic assistance to stay after school for After School Help on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Students have the opportunity to receive free tutoring. If students are not being picked up by their parents, then they can ride the late activity bus home.

At the interim and final marking periods, our teachers and their grade level administrators are further reviewing students’ grades. For those students with a “D” or “F” during this time, an intervention checklist is filled out by the teacher. This information is helpful to see what best practices have already been employed by the teacher and to analyze what other strategies should also be employed to help the student reach his or her level. Please see “Intervention Checklist” for more information.
Much learning occurs at LCMS, and the LCMS School Improvement Plans for 2015-2018 outlines future goals for our school.

If you have questions about your child’s progress, please reach out to your child’s teacher. He or she will have the most, direct information as to what is occurring with your child in class. If for some reason, you are having difficulty with contacting your child’s teacher, please feel free to contact me at chenlc@lcps.k12.va.us It is through and with our partnership that we will make LCMS the best school for every single child. Thank you for all that you do!

The following are some important updates and announcements.

Announcements
Morning Announcers – Preston George
Preston George did an outstanding job with morning announcements. He was clear in his delivery of messages, and he enunciated each word with great accuracy. Without his help, Morning Announcements would not be as fun, enjoyable, or even as informative! From Wednesday, November 4 to Friday, November 6, we will have two new guest speakers to assist us with the announcements: Julianna Guiterrez and Tyler Hopkins.

A’s and A/B’s – Marking Period 1
Congratulations to the 590 students who are the Honor Roll for the first marking period. 430 students earned all A/B’s in every subject, and 160 students early all A’s. Effort makes a difference! We are so proud of all of you. Student names are on display in the cafeteria. It is a joy to see students excited and pointing out their names proudly on this list! I hope to see all of my students’ names of this list.

Student Work
Students in Gail Carlin’s art classes designed beautiful posters with these lovely sayings. Once her classes have finished the art work, they will be displayed around the building to inspire all of us.

Courage ~ Transforms fear into determination. Embracing life fully, without holding back, doing what must be done even when it is difficult or risky.
Ark work by Abigail Golovan

Reverence ~ An awareness of the sacredness of life. Living with wonder and faith.  
Art work by Julia Gortman

Loyalty ~ Unwavering faithfulness and commitment to people and ideas we care about, through good times and bad.
Art work by Rychelle Johnson

Hope ~ A feeling for expectation for a certain thing to happen.
Art work by Gabby Matthews

Tolerance ~ Being open to differences. Refraining from judgments. Patience and forgiveness with others and ourselves. Accepting things that we wish were different with humor and grace.
Art work by Cailtin Rosenboom

Guidance Services for Grade 7
Congratulations to Jaclyn Jacobson (Grade 7 Guidance Counselor) on a lovely, health baby boy! While we are in the works of finalizing a long term substitute for Ms. Jacobson, Annie Floyd (Grade 6 Guidance Counselor) will be working with Grade 7 students with last names from A to M. Her contact information is floydam@lcps.k12.va.us or (540) 894-5457 ext. 2061. Sarah Porter (Grade 8 Guidance Counselor) will be working with Grade 7 students with last names from N to Z. Her contact information is portersa@lcps.k12.va.us or (54) 894-5457 ext. 2063. Please direct any correspondence that you would have normally sent to Ms. Jacobson to either Ms. Floyd or Ms. Porter. Ms. Jacobson will return in January 2016.

Daylight Savings Time – Sunday, November 1
Please do not forget that Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday, November 1 at 2:00 a.m. Do not forget to turn your clocks back 1 hour.

After School Help – November 4

Student Schedule for Wednesday, November 4 to Friday, November 13
Wednesday, November 4 (A): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 (This is a “A” day for electives. Students go to Period 1, Period 2, Period 3, Period 4, Period 5, and then for the last period of the day, students return back to their Period 4 class.)

On Monday, November 2:                Staff Development Day. No school for students.
On Tues., Nov. 3:                              Election Day. Division Holiday. No school for students and staff.
On Wed., Nov. 4 (A):                  1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Reading/Writing. School doors open at 7:40 a.m.
Thursday, November 5 (B):                            1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4, ACE Reading/Writing
Friday, November 6 (A):                                1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4  Club A or Reading

On Monday, November 9 (B):                        1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Reading/Writing
On Tuesday, November 10 (A):                     1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Reading/Writing
On Wednesday, November 11 (B):                1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Reading/Writing
On Thursday, November 12 (A):                    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Reading/Writing
On Friday, November 13 (B):                         1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 Club B or Reading

Important Upcoming Dates Added information and dates are marked in purple.

Monday, November 2: Staff Development Day. No students come to school.
Tuesday, November 3: Division Holiday. No students and staff come to school.

Wednesday, November 4: School resumes for staff and students. School doors open at 7:40 a.m. ACE Reading/Writing begins for students on Wednesday, November 4 and Thursday, November 5 during Period 6.

Thursday, November 5: NJHS Induction Ceremony @ LCMS Forum at 7:00 p.m.
Friday, November 6: Chorus and Drama Students Trip. Club A or reading
Monday, November 9: ACE Reading/Writing begins from Monday, November 9 to Thursday, November 12 during Period 6. 

Thursday, November 12: Grade 7 and Grade 8 Band and Chorus Concert
Friday, November 13: Club B or reading
Monday, November 16: ACE Math begins from Monday, November 16 to Thursday, November 14 during Period 6. Picture make-up day

Tuesday, November 17: Interim reports go home with students. Dr. Chen meets with the LCMS Parent Advisory Council from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Main Office Conference Room. PTA Board meeting from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Main Office Conference Room.

Thursday, November 19: Picture Make-up day.
Friday, November 20: Club A or reading
Wednesday, November 25: No school for students and staff.
Thursday, November 26: Division Holiday. Happy Thanksgiving. No school for students and staff.
Friday, November 27: Division Holiday. No school for students and staff.
Monday, November 30: Classes resume. School door opens at 7:40 a.m.

Tuesday, December 1: English 6 Benchmark
Wednesday, December 2: English 7 Benchmark
Thursday, December 3: English 8 Benchmark
Monday, December 7: Math 7 Benchmark
Tuesday, December 8: Math 6 Benchmark
Wednesday, December 9: Math 8 Benchmark
Friday, December 11: Social Studies Benchmark
Monday, December 12: Science Benchmark
Tuesday, December 15: Dr. Chen meets with the LCMS Parent Advisory Council from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Main Office Conference Room. PTA Board meeting from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Main Office Conference Room.

Friday, December 18: End of 2nd Marking Period.
Monday, December 21- Friday, January 1: Winter Break. No school for students.

Tuesday, January 4 – Teacher Workday. No school for students
Wednesday, January 5: Staff Development Day. No school for students.
Thursday, January 6: Classes resume for student. School doors open at 7:40 a.m.
Saturday, January 9: Battle of the Books Competition. Snow date is Saturday, January 23. This event will take place at Warrenton Middle School, 244 Waterloo Street, Warrenton, VA Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. The competition begins at 10:00 a.m.

Thursday, March 24: All County Music @ LCHS Auditorium from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 16: Final Battle of the Books Competition will take place at Cedar Lee Middle School, 11138 Marsh Road, Bealeton, VA Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. The competition begins at 10:00 a.m.

Thank you for taking the time to read these updates. As I will say to my students each day, “This is important. You belong here. Effort makes a difference.”

With warm regards,
Lisa C. Chen
Lisa C. Chen, Ph.D.
Principal
Louisa County Middle School

Friday, October 23, 2015

Principal's Update for October 23, 2015

Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends:

I hope to see many of you at the Homecoming Game tonight! Go Lions!

As I have shared with students this week on Morning Announcements, students are allowed to dress up for Halloween on Friday, October 30. However, all school rules apply regarding the dress code. 
Please see pages 7 and 8 in the LCMS Student Handbook. Students should not have face paint, masks, wigs, or hats. Staff members need to be able to recognize their students for safety reasons. If students wish to dress up as football players, then students can put on the black stickers under their eyes, but pads should not be worn with their customs. This is to ensure the safety of our students as many students climb up and down the stairs and travel in hallways together. Additionally, the food protocol still applies on this day, and students should NOT be passing out candy as some students are allergic to certain foods. Attached is also the “LCPS Health Pamphlet 2015,” for additional information about the district food protocol. Should students not abide by the dress code, students will be asked to change to more appropriate attire for school.

A reminder for those students who received membership to National Juniors Honors Society (NJHS), please do not forget to turn in your form to Mary Eden (English teacher) no later than Friday, October 30. If the form is not turned in by Friday, October 30, it will be assumed that the student who has received an invitation to join NJHS has wished to decline membership at this time.

As always, please feel free to contact me at chenlc@lcps.k12.va.us if you have questions, concerns, or any feedback that you would like to share.

The following are some important updates and announcements.

Announcements
Morning Announcers – Ali Downey and Makaila Dunivan
Ali Downey and Makaila Dunivan did an outstanding job with morning announcements. Both students were clear, enunciated each word with great accuracy, and had a nice and pleasant tone in delivering our important announcementsWithout their help, Morning Announcements would not be as fun, enjoyable, or even as informative! From Monday, October 26 to Friday, October 30, we will have two new guest speakers to assist us with the announcements: Rebecca Ferrante and Preston George.

Community Action Team (CAT) Beautifies LCMSOn Wednesday, October 14 after school, several members of the CATs club came together for a school beautification project. The students designed an arrangement of mums for the front garden established in memory of Charles Wilson, a former LCMS student. The CATs members donned their gloves and first weeded the garden, garden path, and areas surrounding the trees planted next to the garden. Then, using shovels and other gardening tools - for the first time for many of them - the CATs members dug holes and planted the mums. They then spread fresh mulch and watered the freshly planted mums. The garden is beautiful, and the CATs members did a wonderful job of working together to design and execute a lovely garden for all to enjoy! Participants included Christina Bellomy, Earica Benton, Grayson Choi, Caiden Davenport, Julianna Gutierrez, Kendall Hyer, Lily Jackson, Lamia Moore, and Ashley Shifflett. Your efforts make a difference!
From Wednesday, November 4 to Tuesday, November 24, the CATs club will be hosting a "Stuff the Turkey" project. We are asking all students and staff to bring in new socks to be donated to the Louisa Santa Council. There will be a "Turkey" in the library, and it is our goal to STUFF the Turkey with socks! All sizes and styles are welcome. Please help the LCMS CATs club Stuff the Turkey. Thank you to Katie Jones (Sp.Ed. teacher) for her direction and leadership in the CATs club!

Student Council Association (SCA) ResultsSeveral weeks ago, all Period 4 classes held classroom elections to select an SCA representative. From the elected pool of representatives, students from each grade level were encouraged to consider running for the offices of President, Vice President, Treasurer, or Secretary. Each grade level has all four positions. For the students who decided to run for an office, the application process was rigorous! First, students completed an application, in which the candidate stated the position he or she was running for, clearly described his or her qualifications for the position, and included a teacher recommendation. Second, students running for office wrote a speech, which was videotaped and shared with the corresponding grade level. In sixth and seventh grades, students watched candidate speeches and voted for their candidates during their Period 4 classes.  

The eighth grade Civics curriculum has a unit on elections, and this SCA election provided an authentic election experience for these students. In eighth grade, students watched the SCA speeches during Civics and Economics classes and reflected on each speech by jotting down notes about the candidate. Grade 8 students voted for their SCA representatives in their Civics and Economics classes. Congratulations to all students who applied and ran, and congratulations to the following students:


6th Grade Officers
Secretary
Treasurer
Vice President
President

Lilliann Jordan
Gunnar Jamerson
Alexis Downey
Xhavier Scott

7th Grade Officers
Secretary
Treasurer
Vice President
President
Isabella Rocha
McKenzie Brooks
Savanah Ray
Earica Benton

8th Grade Officers
Secretary
Treasurer
Vice President
President
Jaelyn Harris
Robyn Leslie
Ethan Cooley
Ken Allison

I look forward to working with these student leaders!

After School Help – Tuesday, October 27 and Wednesday, October 28

Student Schedule for Monday, October 26 – Friday, November 6Monday, October 26 (B): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 (This is a “B” day for electives. Students go to Period 1, Period 2, Period 3, Period 4, Period 5, and then for the last period of the day, students return back to their Period 4 class.)

On Monday, October 26 (B):                         1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Math
On Tuesday, October 27 (A):                         1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Math
On Wednesday, October 28 (B):                    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Math
On Thursday, October 29 (A):                        1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Math
On Friday, October 30 (B):                            1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 Club B or Reading

On Monday, November 2:                              Staff Development Day. No school for students.
On Tuesday, November 3:                              Election Day. Division Holiday. No school for students and staff.
On Wednesday, November 4 (A):                  1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Math. School doors open at 7:40 a.m.
Thursday, November 5 (B):                            1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4, ACE Math
Friday, November 6 (A):                                1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4  Club A or Reading.

Important Upcoming Dates – Added information and dates are marked in purple.

Friday, October 23: Decision letters for NJHS mailed home to candidates. Club A or reading
Friday, October 23: LCMS Dance and Football Game @ LCMS Cafeteria from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Monday, October 26: ACE Math occurs from Monday, October 26 to Thursday, October 29 during the last period of the day.
Wednesday, October 28: Band and Guitar Trip
Thursday, October 29: Student picture day
Friday, October 30: Club B or reading
Monday, November 2: Staff Development Day. No students come to school. 
Tuesday, November 3: Division Holiday. No students and staff come to school.
Wednesday, November 4: School resumes for staff and students. School doors open at 7:40 a.m. ACE Reading/Writing begins for students on Wednesday, November 4 and Thursday, November 5 during Period 6.
Thursday, November 5: NJHS Induction Ceremony @ LCMS Forum at 7:00 p.m. 
Friday, November 6: Chorus and Drama Students Trip. Club A or reading
Monday, November 9: ACE Reading/Writing begins from Monday, November 9 to Thursday, November 12 during Period 6.

Thursday, November 12: Grade 7 and Grade 8 Band and Chorus Concert
Friday, November 13: Club B or reading
Monday, November 16: ACE Math begins from Monday, November 16 to Thursday, November 14 during Period 6. Picture make-up day

Tuesday, November 17: Interim reports go home with students. Dr. Chen meets with the LCMS Parent Advisory Council from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Main Office Conference Room. PTA Board meeting from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Main Office Conference Room.

Thursday, November 19: Picture Make-up day.
Friday, November 20: Club A or reading
Wednesday, November 25: No school for students and staff.
Thursday, November 26: Division Holiday. Happy Thanksgiving. No school for students and staff.
Friday, November 27: Division Holiday. No school for students and staff.
Monday, November 30: Classes resume. School door opens at 7:40 a.m.

Saturday, January 9: Battle of the Books Competition. Snow date is Saturday, January 23. This event will take place at Warrenton Middle School, 244 Waterloo Street, Warrenton, VA Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. The competition begins at 10:00 a.m.

Saturday, April 16: Final Battle of the Books Competition will take place at Cedar Lee Middle School, 11138 Marsh Road, Bealeton, VA Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. The competition begins at 10:00 a.m.

Thursday, March 24: All County Music @ LCHS Auditorium from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Thank you for taking the time to read these updates. As I will say to my students each day, “This is important. You belong here. Effort makes a difference.”

With warm regards,
Lisa C. Chen
Lisa C. Chen, Ph.D.
Principal
Louisa County Middle School

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

Principal's Update for October 19, 2015

Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends:

Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Tuesday, October 20 by appointment only from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. From 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. teachers will be available for walk-ins. As school will still be in session until 3:09 p.m. you are welcome to park in the Central Office Parking Lot. Should you arrive after 3:09 p.m. please feel free to wait in the LCMS Cafeteria. Please note that teachers are finishing up with bus and after school duties. As such, parent conferences will not begin until 3:30 p.m. Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to seeing on Tuesday, October 20 for parent/teacher conferences!

Furthermore, students who have a cumulative 6th grade GPA of at least 3.4 and who wish to be considered for membership in the National Junior Honor Society were invited to complete a Candidacy Packet. The Candidacy Packet was reviewed and evaluated by the NJHS Faculty Council. Students will be notified of the Faculty Council’s decision by letter in the US Mail postmarked no later than Friday, October 23, 2015.

Attached is the flyer for the LCMS Dance and Game to be held on Friday, October 23 from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Students who wish to attend the game will be walked to the football fields by administration following the dance. The last day to turn in signed permission slips and money to the Main Office is on Thursday, October 22 by 1:15 p.m. Please see “Game and Dance October 23.”

Please see the attachment, “Yearbook Form November 27,” to order a yearbook for your child.

Thank you for taking the time to read these brief reminders. As I will say to my students each day, “This is important. You belong here. Effort makes a difference.”

With warm regards,
Lisa C. Chen
Lisa C. Chen, Ph.D.
Principal
Louisa County Middle School

Friday, October 16, 2015

Principal's Update for October 16, 2015

Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends:

On Tuesday, October 13, Dr. Hector Montenegro, a national leader and expert on literacy strategies for English learners, spent his day with us. I am so grateful for his time and the feedback that he provided to my staff and me. We were so fortunate to have had Dr. Montenegro’s input and expertise as he has had the opportunity to see various schools across the country, and we were most curious to learn what he thought about LCMS from his national perspective.

This is what he shared with my staff and me.

1.      He was impressed with how well our students are behaved, and how comfortable they felt with adults.
2.      He was impressed with what a positive school culture LCMS has that is focused on high expectations of teaching and learning.
3.      Finally, he was impressed with the positive relationships that he saw between the adults and the students, and vice versa.

I personally would like to thank Dan Barrett (Grade 8 Math teacher), Sara Boyer (Grade 6 Special Education teacher, Greta Cameron (Grade 8 English teacher), Pam Carpenter (Civics 8 teacher), Janelle Conley (Grade 6 English teacher), Erin Dougherty (ESOL teacher), Leslie Lipscomb (Grade 7 Science teacher), and Kitti Harlowe (Grade 7 Special Education teacher) for a job well done and for hosting Dr. Montenegro as he spent time in their classrooms.
  
You may also wish to check out Dr. Montenegro’s latest book on Literacy Strategies For English Learners in Core Content Secondary Classrooms.

On Thursday, October 15, Louisa's Commonwealth Attorney, Rusty McGuire, and Louisa County Sheriff's Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Detective Sergeant Chuck Love, presented a very informative session on some of the challenges and potential dangers that our students may potentially face when using Social Media. This forty-five minute presentation, followed by a question and answer session with these leading experts, was quite informative. Because of the importance of their information, I will see if they will be able to provide us with another presentation, and it is my hope that more parents will be able to attend this session. There is so much that our students face with social media that it is important for all of us to be abreast of what our children face and how best to work with our children to navigate and to use social media in a more positive manner. I am most grateful for the time and information provided by Rusty McGuire and Chuck Love!

If you are interested in purchasing a year book, another avenue is to seek this website: http://www.jostens.com/apps/store/customer/1119721/Louisa-County-Middle-School/
Please contact Trevor Gallo (Technology teacher) at 540 894-5457 ext. 2157 if you have questions.

A reminder that report cards will be sent home with students today and that parent conferences will be held on Tuesday, October 20 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (appointments only) and from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (walk-ins). My staff and I look forward to seeing our parents on this night!
Finally, I would like to continue to thank all parents and guardians for their support in the afternoon pick-up. This is again to ensure the safety and well-being of you and our students!
As always, please feel free to contact me at chenlc@lcps.k12.va.us if you have questions, concerns, or any feedback that you would like to share.

The following are some important updates and announcements.

Announcements
Morning Announcers – Kourtney Dalton and Caiden Davenport
Kourtney Dalton and Caiden Davenport did an outstanding job with morning announcements. Both students were clear, enunciated each word with great accuracy, and had a nice and pleasant tone in delivering our important announcements. Without their help, Morning Announcements would not be as fun, enjoyable, or even as informative! From Monday, October 19 to Friday, October 23, we will have two new guest speakers to assist us with the announcements: Ali Downey and Makaila Dunivan.

Performance by Kathy Allen and Warren Seay – Thursday, October 8
On Thursday, October 8, Kathy Allen (Band teacher) and Warren Seay (Grade 7 student) performed in a concert at the Mineral Outreach Center. Kathy Allen played the piano and sang, while Warren Seay accompanied Kathy Allen on the guitar for several songs. The evening was well received, and we are extremely proud of both Kathy Allen and Warren Seay for a job well done!

Congratulations to Poster Winners – Alexis Trainum, Emma McGehee, Regan Madison, and Nicole Zapertova
There were approximately 85 entries for the Students Against Bullying Poster Contest. It was a very tough decision as there were many spectacular posters. The Safe, Orderly and Caring Correlate and FCCLA would like to thank Tom Black (Physical Education and Health teacher), Mary Eden (English 8 teacher), Basil Georgiadis (Spanish teacher), Dan Leale (Math 6 teacher), Robyn Rupert (Science 6 teacher), and Sharon Wills (Chorus and Drama teacher) for their assistance in selecting the winners of the poster contest! Congratulations to Alexis Trainum who took First Place, which included a $20.00 gift card and certificate, Emma McGehee who earned Second Place and a $15.00 gift card and certificate, Regan Madison who earned Third Place, which included a $10.00 gift card and certificate, and Nicole Zapertova, who received Honorable Mention with a certificate. Great job to all of our students who participated in this contest!

The Team Player Award is bestowed upon twelve students each marking period who display the following character qualities on a regular basis: respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, citizenship, fairness, and caring. These students exemplify what it is to be a role model for all LCMS students. Students will be recognized and rewarded during their lunch shifts with pizza and cupcakes! They also will have their photos and words of praise displayed in the cafeteria for all to see. 

Congratulations to the Team Players for the 1st marking period! We are extremely proud of all that you do!

Grade 6 Students: Mason Shifflett-Bohn, Sheridan Stiles, Deirde Varney, and Caleb Wood
Grade 7 Students: Chloe Dowell, Kammi Lewis, Jeremiah Madison, and Ethan Saul
Grade 8 Students: Eryn Canning, Seth Long, Josh Swinson, and Lynette Tores

NJHS – 205 Candidates
Students who have a cumulative 6th grade GPA of at least 3.4 and who wish to be considered for membership in the National Junior Honor Society were invited to complete a Candidacy Packet. The Candidacy Packet was reviewed and evaluated by the NJHS Faculty Council. Students will be notified of the Faculty Council’s decision by letter in the US Mail postmarked no later than October 23, 2015.

While I was not allowed or privy to the process, I do know that much time was spent by members of the Faculty Council in deciphering potential future members in NJHS. This year, 205 candidates applied. The decision of the Faculty Council is final, and members of the Faculty Council cannot discuss their decisions with students or their parents or guardians. Appeals may be made to the school principal from Monday, October 19 to Monday, November 2.

Parent/Teacher Conferences – Tuesday, October 20
Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Tuesday, October 20 by appointment only from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. If you are interested in setting up an appointment with your child’s teacher, please contact your child’s teacher to set up an individual appointment. Appointments will be on a first come-first serve basis. From 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. teachers will be available for walk-ins. As school will still be in session until 3:09 p.m. you are welcome to park in the Central Office Parking Lot. Should you arrive after 3:09 p.m. please feel free to wait in the LCMS Cafeteria. Please note that teachers are finishing up with bus and after school duties. As such, parent conferences will not begin until 3:30 p.m. Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to seeing on Tuesday, October 20 for parent/teacher conferences!

After School Help – Wednesday, October 21
As Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Tuesday, October 20, after school help will only be available on Wednesday, October 21 during this week.

Student Schedule for Monday, October 19 – Friday, October 30
Monday, October 13 (A): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 (This is a “A” day for electives. Students go to Period 1, Period 2, Period 3, Period 4, Period 5, and then for the last period of the day, students return back to their Period 4 class.)

On Monday, October 19 (A):                         1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Math
On Tuesday, October 20 (B):                         1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Math
On Wednesday, October 21 (A):                    1, 2, 3, 4 ,5, 4 ACE Math
On Thursday, October 22 (B):                        1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Math
On Friday, October 23 (A):                            1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 Club A or Reading.

On Monday, October 26 (B):                         1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Math
On Tuesday, October 27 (A):                         1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Math
On Wednesday, October 28 (B):                    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Math
On Thursday, October 29 (A):                        1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Math
On Friday, October 30 (B):                            1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 Club B or Reading

Important Upcoming Dates Added information and dates are marked in purple.

Friday, October 16: Report cards for the first nine weeks are sent home with students. All County Music Night at LCHS Stadium.
 
Monday, October 19: ACE Math occurs from Monday, October 19 to Thursday, October 22 during the last period of the day. 
 
Tuesday, October 20: Parent/Teacher Conference (3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. appointment only) and (5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. walk-ins)
 
Thursday, October 22: Blue Ridge Virtual Governor School with Director Marc Carraway
Friday, October 23: Decision letters for NJHS mailed home to candidates. Club A or reading
Friday, October 23: LCMS Dance and Football Game @ LCMS Cafeteria from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
 
Monday, October 26: ACE Math occurs from Monday, October 26 to Thursday, October 29 during the last period of the day.
 
Wednesday, October 28: Band and Guitar Trip
Thursday, October 29: Student picture day
Friday, October 30: Club B or reading
Monday, November 2: Staff Development Day. No students come to school.
Tuesday, November 3: Division Holiday. No students and staff come to school.
Wednesday, November 4: School resumes for staff and students. School doors open at 7:40 a.m. ACE Reading/Writing begins for students on Wednesday, November 4 and Thursday, November 5 during Period 6.
Thursday, November 5: NJHS Induction Ceremony @ LCMS Forum at 7:00 p.m.
Friday, November 6: Chorus and Drama Students Trip. Club A or reading
Monday, November 9: ACE Reading/Writing begins from Monday, November 9 to Thursday, November 12 during Period 6. 

Thursday, November 12: Grade 7 and Grade 8 Band and Chorus Concert
Friday, November 13: Club B or reading
Monday, November 16: ACE Math begins from Monday, November 16 to Thursday, November 14 during Period 6. Picture make-up day

Tuesday, November 17: Interim reports go home with students. Dr. Chen meets with the LCMS Parent Advisory Council from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Main Office Conference Room. PTA Board meeting from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Main Office Conference Room.

Thursday, November 19: Picture Make-up day.
Friday, November 20: Club A or reading
Wednesday, November 25: No school for students and staff.
Thursday, November 26: Division Holiday. Happy Thanksgiving. No school for students and staff.
Friday, November 27: Division Holiday. No school for students and staff.
Monday, November 30: Classes resume. School door opens at 7:40 a.m.

Saturday, January 9: Battle of the Books Competition. Snow date is Saturday, January 23. This event will take place at Warrenton Middle School, 244 Waterloo Street, Warrenton, VA (Times are still to be determined.)

Saturday, April 16: Final Battle of the Books Competition will take place at Cedar Lee Middle School, 11138 Marsh Road, Bealeton, VA (Times are still to be determined.)

Thursday, March 24: All County Music @ LCHS Auditorium from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Thank you for taking the time to read these updates. As I will say to my students each day, “This is important. You belong here. Effort makes a difference.”

With warm regards,
Lisa C. Chen
Lisa C. Chen, Ph.D.
Principal
Louisa County Middle School

Monday, October 12, 2015

Principal Update for October 9, 2015

Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends:

Today, students will be involved in the anti-bullying walk during Period 6, and staff and students are wearing orange to show their support against any bullying-like behavior, which is not tolerated at LCMS.

This week, student representatives in Student Council Association (SCA) have been meeting with Natalie Watterson (Grade 8 English teacher) to video-tape their speeches for various leadership positions for SCA.

Mary Eden (Grade 8 English teacher) and I met with the LCMS Principal Ambassadors, Victoria Moore and Ryan Wheeler, on devising a plan for a fundraiser on behalf of the National Junior Honor Society, such as the “Boo Grams,” as well as other community service opportunities that students in the NJHS would like to assist. I look forward to meeting with these students each month as they will provide me with feedback on how to make this school even more student-centered for all students.

On Thursday, October 15 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. please join us in the LCMS Forum for the internet safety presentation with Rusty McGuire and Sergeant Chuck Love. If available, from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. join us for some cookies and punch. Louisa’s Commonwealth Attorney, Rusty McGuire, and Louisa County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Detective, Sergeant Chuck Love, will provide us with more information on the potential dangers or risks that children may face when using social media and how our students can use the internet safely.

Finally, I would like to thank all parents and guardians for their support in the afternoon pick-up. This is again to ensure the safety and well-being of you and our students!

As always, please feel free to contact me at chenlc@lcps.k12.va.us if you have questions, concerns, or any feedback that you would like to share.

The following are some important updates and announcements.

Announcements
Morning Announcers – Clauriz Claudio and Taren Coles
Clauriz Claudio and Taren Coles did an outstanding job with morning announcements. Both students were clear, enunciated each word with great accuracy, and had a nice and pleasant tone in delivering our important announcements. Without their help, Morning Announcements would not be as fun, enjoyable, or even as informative! From Tuesday, October 13 to Friday, October 16, we will have two new guest speakers to assist us with the announcements: Kourtney Dalton and Caiden Davenport.

Louisa Wrestling Tournament a Success
On Saturday, September 26, the Louisa Wrestling Team hosted its 10th Annual September Sizzler wrestling tournament at LCHS. This tournament had over 160 competitors from Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, and even Florida. Ages ranged from youth (5-11) to college for this event. This tournament had 50 more participants than last year’s tournament that was held at LCMS. We are continually trying to build the youth and middle school programs at Louisa. In order to build a program, wrestlers and parents joined together to run this great tournament each year. This tournament serves as the team’s main fundraiser and supports the costs of the entry fees and travel expenses for in-season tournaments. Thank you to all of the staff members and parent involved as well as to Coaches Ty Boyer, Trevor Gallo, and Dan Leale, for your time and assistance in this important event for our students!

“5 to Drive” Campaign Helps Parents Protect Teen Drivers – Captain Poindexter
The Louisa County Sheriff’s Office is joining with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Louisa County High School to promote the “5 to Drive” campaign during National Teen Driver Safety Week (18-24 Oct) and State Farm’s Celebrate My Drive Campaign (12-25 Oct). These campaigns have important and complementary roles in helping parents talk to their teen drivers about important rules of the road and encouraging teens to make positive choices. “Even though our Louisa County teens might be gaining some independence and getting older, protecting them from harm shouldn’t stop now,” said Sheriff Fortune. “The ‘5 to Drive’ campaign will give parents the tools they need to keep their teen drivers safe now and in the future.” Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for U.S. teens 15 to 19 years old.  In 2013, more than 2,614 teen drivers were involved in fatal passenger vehicle crashes. The “5 to Drive” campaign addresses the five most dangerous and deadly behaviors displayed by teen drivers. The idea behind the campaign is to give parents the words to use when they talk with their teens about the rules of the road. NHTSA’s website, www.safercar.gov/parents, has detailed information and statistics about the five rules designed to help save the lives of teen drivers.

The “5 to Drive” rules for parents to share with their teens are:

  1. No Drinking and Driving - almost one out of five (19 percent) of the young drivers (15 to 19 years old) involved in fatal crashes had been drinking, even though they were too young to legally buy or possess alcohol.
  2. Buckle Up, Every Trip, Every Time, Front Seat and Back. – 64 percent of all the young (13- to 19-year-old) passengers of teen drivers who died in motor vehicle crashes in 2013 were not wearing seat belts.
  3. Put It Down. One Text or Call Could Wreck It All. - The age group of 15 to 19 years old has the highest percentage of drivers who were distracted by cell phone use and involved in a fatal crash. In 2013, 156 people were killed in crashes involving a distracted teen driver.
  4. Stop Speeding Before It Stops You. - In 2013, almost one-third (29 percent) of teen drivers involved in a fatal crash were speeding.
  5. No More Than One Passenger at a Time. - The risk of a fatal crash goes up with each additional passenger.

Teen drivers need to follow these rules and other restrictions outlined in Virginia’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) law. Parents need to highlight these rules and explain to their teens the deadly consequences of unsafe driving practices. The “5 to Drive” campaign can help parents start that conversation and encourage teens make positive choices. “We are hoping that the ‘5 to Drive’ campaign will get the word out to all parents and their teens,” Sheriff Fortune said. “Don’t stop protecting them now that they can drive. Your teens need your guidance and behavior expectations now more than ever.” Surveys show that teens whose parents impose driving restrictions typically engage in less risky driving and are involved in fewer crashes. Teens can’t listen if you don’t talk! For more information about National Teen Driver Safety Week and the “5 to Drive” campaign, please visit www.safercar.gov/parents.For more information about State Farm’s “Celebrate My Drive” campaign, please visit www.celebratemydrive.com.

LCMS School Library Website
      
Parents and Guardians, do you know about all the helpful tools on the LCMS Library’s webpage? It can be accessed from the LCMS home page under the LCMS tab. The library staff wants to provide easy access to many of the resources students often need for classwork and library use.

Here are a few of the links that can be found on the LCMS Library page:

·         Destiny Catalog (home) link will allow students and parents to look up books in our Library collection from home.
·         Accelerated Reader quizzes for books students have read are only to be taken while at school.
·         AR Book Finder website can be used to find out if there is an AR quiz on any specific book.
·         FAQ link will provide answers to many frequently asked questions about our Library.
·         Resources tab links students to a variety of reference tools like World Book Online Encyclopedia andGrolier Online Encyclopedia. These are two great resources to begin a research project before “googling” on the Internet. To log onto these sites:     username: louisa     password: findup
There are many additional links to explore. Please check out this informative webpage. I would like to thank our librarian staff, Sue Watson, Rebecca Baughman, and Jennifer Filer, for always making the LCMS Library a wonderful place for our students to read and a very resourceful place for our students to learn.

End of First Marking Period – Friday, October 9
The end of the first marking period is on Friday, October 9. The parent portal for grades in PowerSchool will be temporarily closed from Friday, October 9 at 3:30 p.m. until Thursday, October 15 at 8:00 a.m. This will allow teachers the time to input grades and comments on students’ report cards. Report cards will be sent home with all students on Friday, October 16.

Parent/Teacher Conferences – Tuesday, October 20
Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Tuesday, October 20 by appointment only from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. If you are interested in setting up an appointment with your child’s teacher, please contact your child’s teacher to set up an individual appointment. Appointments will be on a first come-first serve basis. From 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. teachers will be available for walk-ins. School will still be in session until 3:09 p.m. You are welcome to park in the Central Office Parking Lot. Should you arrive after 3:09 p.m. please feel free to wait in the LCMS Cafeteria. Please note that teachers are finishing up with bus and after school duties. As such, parent conferences will not begin until 3:30 p.m. Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to seeing on Tuesday, October 20 for parent/teacher conferences!

After School Help – Wednesday, October 21
As Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Tuesday, October 20, after school help will only be available on Wednesday, October 21 during this week.

Unveiling and Dedication – Saturday, October 24
On Saturday, October 24 10:00 a.m. Linda Collins, the President of the A.G. Richardson Alumni Association, cordially invites you to the unveiling and dedication of a historical marker. This historical marker is honoring the site of the Archie Gibbs Richardson High School and the Zelda Carter Morton Elementary School and the contributions of African-American parents, children, and community leaders. The ceremony will take place at the Thomas Jefferson Elementary, and the marker will be placed on Route 33 East of Louisa on the Thomas Jefferson Elementary site. We hope to see you there!

Student Schedule for Tuesday, October 13 – Friday, October 23Tuesday, October 13 (A): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 2 (This is a “A” day for electives. Students go to Period 1, Period 2, Period 3, Period 4, Period 5, and then for the last period of the day, students return back to their Period 2 class.)

On Monday, October 12:                                Teacher Workday. No school for students.
On Tuesday, October 13 (A):                         1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 2
On Wednesday, October 14 (B):                    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 3
On Thursday, October 15 (A):                       1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4
On Friday, October 16 (B):                            1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5 (Reports go out. All Country Music Night at LCHS Stadium.)

On Monday, October 19 (A):                                     1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1
On Tuesday, October 20 (B):                         1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 2
On Wednesday, October 21 (A):                    1, 2, 3, 4 ,5, 3
On Thursday, October 22 (B):                        1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4
On Friday, October 23 (A):                            1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5 Club A or Reading.

Important Upcoming Dates – Added information and dates are marked in purple.

Friday, October 9: First nine weeks end. LCMS Dance and Football Game @ LCMS Cafeteria from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.  Anti-bullying Awareness Day. All students will participate in an anti-bullying walk during last period. Students will bring all of their items to be dismissed from the LCHS Stadium.
Monday, October 12: Teacher Workday. No school for students.
Tuesday, October 13: School resumes for students on Tuesday, October 13. School doors open at 7:40 p.m. LCMS Parent Advisory Council meets with Dr. Chen in the Main Office Conference Room from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. PTA Board meets from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Main Office Conference Room.

Wednesday, October 14: Marc Carraway (Director of Blue Ridge Virtual Governor School) meets with Grade 8 students in LCMS Forum for 15 to 20 minutes in Mr. LoBello’s and Ms. Harkin’s math classes.

Thursday, October 15: Internet Safety Program with Rusty McGuire and Sergeant Chuck Love at 6:30 p.m. in the LCMS Forum. Please join us for cookies and punch at 6:00 p.m. in the Forum.

Friday, October 16: Report cards for the first nine weeks are sent home with students. All County Music Night at LCHS Stadium.

Monday, October 19: ACE Math occurs from Monday, October 19 to Thursday, October 22 during the last period of the day. 

Tuesday, October 20: Parent/Teacher Conference (3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. appointment only) and (5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. walk-ins)

Thursday, October 22: Blue Ridge Virtual Governor School with Director Marc Carraway
Friday, October 23: Decision letters for NJHS mailed home to candidates. Club A or reading
Friday, October 23: LCMS Dance and Football Game @ LCMS Cafeteria from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Monday, October 26: ACE Math occurs from Monday, October 26 to Thursday, October 29 during the last period of the day.

Wednesday, October 28: Band and Guitar Trip
Thursday, October 29: Student picture day
Friday, October 30: Club B or reading
Monday, November 2: Staff Development Day. No students come to school. 
Tuesday, November 3: Division Holiday. No students and staff come to school.

Wednesday, November 4: School resumes for staff and students. School doors open at 7:40 a.m. ACE Reading/Writing begins for students on Wednesday, November 4 and Thursday, November 5 during Period 6.
Thursday, November 5: NJHS Induction Ceremony @ LCMS Forum at 7:00 p.m. 
Friday, November 6: Chorus and Drama Students Trip. Club A or reading
Monday, November 9: ACE Reading/Writing begins from Monday, November 9 to Thursday, November 12 during Period 6.

Thursday, November 12: Grade 7 and Grade 8 Band and Chorus Concert
Friday, November 13: Club B or reading
Monday, November 16: ACE Math begins from Monday, November 16 to Thursday, November 14 during Period 6. Picture make-up day

Tuesday, November 17: Interim reports go home with students. Dr. Chen meets with the LCMS Parent Advisory Council from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Main Office Conference Room. PTA Board meeting from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Main Office Conference Room.

Thursday, November 19: Picture Make-up day.
Friday, November 20: Club A or reading
Wednesday, November 25: No school for students and staff.
Thursday, November 26: Division Holiday. Happy Thanksgiving. No school for students and staff.
Friday, November 27: Division Holiday. No school for students and staff.
Monday, November 30: Classes resume. School door opens at 7:40 a.m.

Saturday, January 9: Battle of the Books Competition. Snow date is Saturday, January 23. This event will take place at Warrenton Middle School, 244 Waterloo Street, Warrenton, VA (Times are still to be determined.)

Saturday, April 16: Final Battle of the Books Competition will take place at Cedar Lee Middle School, 11138 Marsh Road, Bealeton, VA (Times are still to be determined.)

Thursday, March 24: All County Music @ LCHS Auditorium from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Thank you for taking the time to read these updates. As I will say to my students each day, “This is important. You belong here. Effort makes a difference.”

With warm regards,
Lisa C. Chen
Lisa C. Chen, Ph.D.
Principal
Louisa County Middle School