Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends and Future Bobcat Family and Friends:
Congratulations to the LCMS Concert Band on Friday, March 4. Students scored a superior in sight reading and an excellent on stage with prepared selections. Concert etiquette and behavior were excellent throughout the day.
A big shout out to the following Grade 7 students: Audrey Allison, Joshua Cutright, Isabelle Dutton, Rachel Ferrell, Ethan Foster, Sylvia Growden, Abigale Hart, Caitlyn Knight, Tyler Layne, Caleb Lloyd, Logan McGhee, Mirijana McIntosh, Haley Pippin, Halli Prescott, Savanna Rowland, Amber Thompson, Zachary Vining, Ryan Williams, and Austin Woodson!
We are also really proud of our Grade 8 students: Gordon Alexander, Brooke Birckhead, Christina Brooks, Jason Brooks, Faith Bumgarner, Alayna Campbell, Riley Canning, Saleena Chambers, Aliya Claiborne, Caleb Coleman, MarkAllan Evans, Brian Exline, Ginny Helmandollar, Gregory Henderson, Nickolas Herbert, Sadie Jordan, Robert Kidd, Cameron Knight, Keegan Kracke, Nicholas Liles, Joshua Main, Caleb Newman, Gage Parrott, Zachary Propst, Dylan Seay, Ethan Snyder, Kyler Soriano, Alan Swasey, Adam Thomas, Chet Van Benschoten, Alexander Washington, Kenneth Wesbey, Harper Whitehead, amd Tyler Yeatts!
A big shout out to Kathy Allen (LCMS Band Director) for her direction and leadership!
We hope to see as many of our students for the Pot of Gold Dance from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the LCMS Cafeteria. Please see “Dance Permission Form 2016 March 11” for more information.
A reminder that Monday, March 14 is a regular school day. Monday, March 14 will be an “A” day. This is to even out the number of A and B days in the months of March, April, and May. Friday, March 18 is the end of the 3rd marking period, and report cards will be sent home on Friday, March 25.
Tuesday, March 22 is Parent/Teacher Conferences. Appointments will be available with teachers from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Walk-ins will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Please feel free to contact your child’s teacher(s) beginning Monday, March 7 to Friday, March 18 to set up individual appointments with your child’s teacher(s).
As always, please feel free to contact me at chenlc@lcps.k12.va.us if you have questions, concerns, or anything that you would like to share.
The following are some important updates and announcements.
Announcements
Morning Announcers – Caylib Fisher and Brandan Fowler
Caylib Fisher and Brandan Fowler have done an outstanding job with morning announcements! They are clear in their delivery of messages and have enunciated each word with great accuracy. Without their help, Morning Announcements would not be as fun, enjoyable, or even as informative. From Monday, March 14 to Friday, March 18, we will have two new guest speakers to assist us with the announcements: Dorian Holtzander and Avanti Hunter.
Captain Howard L. Baugh Visits LCMS – Tuesday, March 15
All students will have the opportunity to hear our guest speaker Captain Howard L. Baugh talk about his experiences in the Air Force and about his work as President of the Tuskegee Chapter in Petersburg, VA. Captain Baugh’s father was one of the original Tuskegee Airman. We are excited that our students will have the opportunity to learn more about the Tuskegee Airmen and about his work as pilot. For more information about the Tuskegee Airmen, please see https://www.hbc-tai.org/
Students in Grades 6 and 7 will walk over with their teachers to the LCHS Auditorium to listen to our guest speaker from 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Grade 8 students will walk over with their teachers to listen to our guest speaker from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Students should wear appropriate clothing to walk over in case it may be cold or rainy on that day. I am so grateful for this opportunity for our students. Thank you to Assistant Superintendent, Doug Straley, for making this possible for us!
National Junior Honor Society “Paws It On”
The National Junior Honor Society (NHJS) is beginning its "Paws It On” program this week. The idea of the program is for students to validate one other when demonstrating good character. Students who receive a Paw will give it to one of the librarians who will then give the student a blank Paw to award to another student demonstrating good character. It is possible to receive more than one Paw. The Paws collected by the librarians will be sorted by grade level and displayed on columns in the cafeteria. To learn more about this program, please see this video created by NJHS https://www.wevideo.com/view/601889876
We are extremely proud of our NHJS students for coming up with such a great leadership project. Thank you to Assistant Principal, Robbie Garnes, NJHS faculty co-sponsors, Mary Eden and Greg Palmer, as well as to Student Council Association sponsors, Marsha Key and Conner Waldron, for their leadership and vision in this project!
Grade 8 Standards of Learning (SOL) Writing Tests – Monday, March 21 and Wednesday, March 23A reminder that students in Grade 8 will take the 2016 Writing SOL’s on the following dates: Monday, March 21 (Writing SOL – multiple choice) and Wednesday, March 23 (Writing SOL – Prompt/Essay). Please remind your child to continue to get plenty of rest and to eat a good breakfast as they should always before each day of school. We will also have our regular breakfast at school each day. Additionally, remind your child to bring a pencil, paper, and a book to read on the testing days. Please encourage your child to display appropriate testing behavior during each testing session. We ask that all students arrive on time each day for testing. Please be mindful that as mandated by VDOE (Virginia Department of Education) regulations, your child cannot be in possession of or use a cell phone or any other technological device that may disrupt the testing environment during the testing session. Should this occur, your child could potentially be required to retake the SOL test or receive a zero on the SOL test. As always, we want the success of every child here at LCMS. We truly thank you for your continued support. Together, we can all BE ON TARGET and go from Good to GREAT! School + Parent/Guardian + Student = Success! Thank you for your continual partnership.
Grade 8 Students Involved with Career Cruising – Thursday, March 17 to Friday, March 25This year, the counseling department will be using an amazing new program called Career Cruising, which is a career self-exploration software curriculum focused on building plans for the future. Guidance counselors, Jaclyn Jacobson and Sarah Porter, will implement these lessons for Grade 8 students from Thursday, March 17 to Friday, March 25 in Civics. Students will learn more about their future goals with this new software program!
Course Request Sheets for 2016-2017 School Year
Conversations with present Grade 5 students will occur during the school tours to LCMS and in April about signing up for electives. Below is the list of choices for present Grade 5 students who will be in Grade 6 in 2016-2017 school year. Sixth grade students are required to take one exploratory class: Band, Chorus, or the Exploratory Wheel. The course descriptions are listed below. More information will be forthcoming to Grade 5 students and parents at the Rising Grade 6 Parent Night on Tuesday, April 19 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the LCMS Forum. We look forward to seeing you there!
Beginning Band 6 – (Yearlong Class)
In Beginning Band, students will develop basic instrumental music skills and will learn how to play an instrument, read music, and perform. They are first taught how to put their instruments together and how to make their first sounds. A few short weeks later, students will play simple melodies. By Winter Break, students will play band arrangements of short songs. By the end of the year, students will play full musical works with harmony in various styles and different rhythms. Members of the band are required to participate in several after school performances during the year. Students must buy or rent their own instruments. A small number of instruments are available from the school. Students usually travel on two educational field trips per year: a fall trip to the Richmond Symphony and a spring trip to a band competition at Busch Gardens. Most importantly, students are expected to practice at home on a regular basis. Students must choose an instrument to play before the first day of school.
Chorus 6 – (Yearlong Class)
Chorus is offered at LCMS at the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade level. Every student will learn music theory or terminology, history, listening or evaluation skills, and sight singing at his or her age level. Similar to math and reading, the level of difficulty increases each year. However, a beginner in the 8th grade can master the information with time and effort! Students will practice proper vocal technique and ensemble singing in every rehearsal as well as perform a variety of music throughout the year. Evening concerts are required for these students. It is their “BIG Project” at the end of the unit of study. Students will be given the opportunity to attend field trips exposing them to different types of music. Each year the chorus enters a competition at which time they receive constructive feedback from professional adjudicators. For the musically gifted students, opportunities are available to participate in All-District Chorus and VA Middle School Honors Choir.
Exploratory Wheel 6 – (Yearlong Class) - There are six (6) different classes.
Agriscience - This course is designed to develop awareness in the middle school students of the relationship between agriculture sciences. Topics covered are Virginia agricultural resources, natural resources, plant science, laboratory safety, mechanics, and leadership. Students will be using hand tools to make a wooden puzzle. Students will be introduced to the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and may join this organization.
Art – Inspired by our annual Arts Festival, painting, drawing, origami, clay, sculpture, and projects are just a few of the many projects taught during the school year in Art 6. The goal of Art 6 is to explore some of the art concepts, materials, and techniques that will be given more time and depth in Art 7 and Art 8.
Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) – In this FACS I class, students will practice improving their individual skills, while setting goals and developing their abilities to work safely and responsibly with other students. Students will prepare nutritious foods, work on sock puppet sewing projects, and create informational posters. Membership in Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is offered to help improve leadership skills while having fun.
Keyboarding – Students will learn proper techniques and basic keyboarding skills. They will be using Microtype Pro and Microsoft Word for practicing their typing. While using Microtype Pro, students will learn basic key placement and how to improve their typing speed.
Introduction to Technology – This beginning technology class will define and explain resources of technology. The student will explore systems of technology by manufacturing a balloon car kit, designing and constructing straw rockets, and exploring computer simulation systems.
Hispanic Cultures – This class is designed to develop an awareness of where Spanish is spoken around the world and to introduce basic Spanish concepts and vocabulary. Topics covered include studying the Spanish speaking countries and varieties of food as well as learning simple greetings. Each student will maintain a portfolio of his or her work.
Conversations with present Grade 6 and Grade 7 will begin in April about signing up for electives. Below is the list of choices for present Grade 6 students who will be in Grade 7 2016-2017 school year. Seventh grade students are required to take one yearlong exploratory class or two semester classes. The course descriptions are listed below.
Band 7– (Yearlong Class)
To enroll in Band 7, students must have successfully completed one year of band. Students will begin to explore more advanced instrumental music skills: sight-reading, playing major scales, using dynamics, tempo and articulation to make selected music creative and expressive. Students will listen to and analyze their performances. There are usually three educational field trips: one in the fall to hear the Richmond Symphony, one in the winter for the VBODA Concert Band Assessment, and one in the spring to Busch Gardens for a band competition. Musically gifted students will have the opportunity to participate in All District Band. Among other things, students will be graded on home practice and participation in required after school performances
Guitar 7 – (Yearlong Class)
Students must provide their own classical style, acoustic guitar. No previous musical experience is required. Guitar 7 will introduce and develop techniques of instrumental playing and music reading. Among other things, students will be graded on home practice and participation in required after school performances. Bass and electric guitars are not included in this course.
Chorus 7 – (Yearlong Class)
This yearlong class is offered at LCMS for 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. Every student will learn music theory or terminology, history, listening or evaluation skills, and sight singing at their age level. Like math and reading, the level of difficulty increases each year. However, a beginner in the 7th grade can master the information with extra time and effort! To start the year, there will be two reading groups: one beginner and one picking up where students left at the end of Chorus 6. By November or December, students will be working all together. Students will practice proper vocal technique and ensemble singing in every rehearsal and perform a variety of music throughout the year. Evening concerts are required. It is their big project for the end of a unit study. Students will attend field trips exposing them to different types of music. Each year the chorus enters a competition at which time they receive constructive feedback from professional adjudicators. For musically gifted students, opportunities are available to participate in All-District Chorus and the VA Middle School Honors Choir.
Chorus 7/8 – (Yearlong by audition only)
As a pre-requisite to be in this Chorus, students must have at least one year of chorus and go through auditions. Auditions will be held in May for this class. Students currently enrolled in Grade 6 Chorus or Grade 7 Chorus may audition for this class. In the audition, students will be graded on their sight-singing as well as their tone, rhythmic accuracy, phrasing, and expression. This class will explore a deeper level of music theory, music history, and music of higher level of difficulty. Students will be using their sight-singing skills to learn their music. This class is for those students dedicated to improving their performance as well as reading skills and working with an ensemble with the same goals. The group will be balanced by section – soprano, alto, and baritone. As in the traditional Chorus 7 and Chorus 8 classes, performances will be required for a grade. There will be field trips and competitions, where students will receive feedback from professional adjudicators. Students in this class will also have the opportunity to audition for All-District Chorus and VA Middle School Honors Choir.
Introduction to Spanish – (Semester Class)
Sticking to its name, this class will lead students through a basic introduction to the Spanish language and culture. Students will learn basic verbal and grammar skills through simple speaking, listening, reading, and writing activities. Learning the vocabulary and everyday phrases will expand the students’ knowledge of the Spanish Language. This class will prepare the student for Spanish I. This class requires a “C” or higher in English 6.
Drama 7 – (Semester Class)
Students will develop strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills. All will actively participate in pantomime, improvisation, public speaking, and drama performances during the semester. One evening performance is required during the semester.
Art 7 – (Semester Class)
If you love art and want to get better, this is the class for you. Students will be able to express themselves through drawings, paintings, and special clay projects. Participation in the annual Louisa County Arts Festival will give students the chance to express their artistic abilities.
Agricultural Science 7 – (Semester Class)
Students will explore science as it relates to agriculture in the economy and learn key scientific terms related to fields of agriculture. Topics covered will be VA Agriculture, forestry science (tree identification, tree volume, and achtopographic maps), and animal science (wildlife, livestock and birds). Students will learn mechanics and laboratory safety by using hand and portable power tools while building shop projects. Joining the Future Farmers of America (FFA) organization will encourage leadership and personal growth.
Introduction to Computer Programming – (Semester Class)
This subject is aimed for students with little or no programming experience. Students will start learning about internet, cyber-bullying, and legal and ethical issues related to use of technology, including acceptable use and copyright. This course aims to provide students with an understanding of the role computation can play in solving problems. It also aims to help students regardless of their computer experience to feel confident of their ability to write small programs that allow them to accomplish useful goals. The class will use ScratchTM programing language as well as a variety of other software. Students will also learn how to create a game program using ScratchTM, Gamestar MechanicTM, and Google Apps.
Desktop Publishing 7 – (Semester Class)
Students will learn the basics of desktop publishing by using Microsoft Office, Microsoft Publisher, and different internet sources. They will write, design, or publish fliers, newsletters, brochures, reports, and a variety of other documents. There will be major group projects. All will be responsible for helping with the monthly school newsletter.
Family and Consumer Science 7 – (Semester Class)
In this FACS 7 class, students will express their creativity, improve individual skills, and develop the ability to work safely with others. Students will prepare nutritional foods and drinks, create a gym bag using a sewing machine, practice proper babysitting procedures, and draw positive relationship posters. Different careers and job opportunities are discussed. Membership in FCCLA is offered to help improve leadership skills. In order to have fun, students will participate in a scavenger hunt to learn about this organization.
Technology 7 / Invention & Innovation – (Semester Class)
Explore technology from an invention and innovation view point. The students will design and produce an innovative product using their creativity. They will explore systems of technology in the modular lab. They will also innovate systems to solve problems.
Below is the list of choices for present Grade 7 students who will be in Grade 8 next year. Eighth grade students are required to take one yearlong exploratory class or two semester classes. The course descriptions are listed below.
Spanish I – (Yearlong Class)
This first year of Spanish I count for a high school credit. Students will practice speaking, reading, listening to, and writing in Spanish while learning about the culture and cuisine. This class requires a “B” or higher in English 7 and a recommendation by the teacher.
Yearbook/Media Class – (Yearlong Class)
Students must fill out an application and be chosen by a selection committee to be accepted into this class. Strong candidates must have computer experience and excellent teacher recommendations. Students must be creative and able to work independently.
Band 8– (Yearlong Class)
To enroll in Band 8, students must have successfully completed one year of band. Students will begin to explore the advanced level of instrumental music skills at LCMS: sight reading and performing more difficult music, playing major and chromatic scales, using dynamics, tempo, and articulation to make selected music creative and expressive. They will listen to and analyze their performances as well as groups outside Louisa. Career opportunities in music will be discussed. Three educational field trips are usually taken: one in the Fall to hear the Richmond Symphony, one in the Winter for the VBODA Concert Band Assessment, and one in the Spring to Busch Gardens for a band competition. As the most advanced instrumentalists at LCMS, students will be encouraged to participate in All District Band. Among other things, students will be graded on home practice and required after school performances.
Guitar 8 – (Yearlong Class)
To enroll in Guitar 8, students must have successfully completed one year of band or guitar. Students must provide their own classical style, acoustic guitar. This course will include a continuation of playing techniques learned from Guitar 7 and will involve more in-depth musical study. Among other things, students will be graded on home practice and participation in required after school performances. Bass and electric guitars are not included in this course.
Chorus 8 – (Yearlong Class)
Every student will learn music theory or terminology, history, listening or evaluation skills, and sight singing at their age level. Like math and reading, the level of difficulty increases each year. However, a beginner in the 8th grade can master the information with extra time and effort! To start the year, there will be two reading groups: one beginner and one picking up where students left off at the end of Grade 7 Chorus. By November or December, students will be all working together. Students will practice proper vocal technique and ensemble singing in every rehearsal and perform a variety of music throughout the year. Evening concerts are required. It is the big project for the end of the unit study. Students will attend field trips exposing them to different types of music. Each year, the chorus enters a competition at which time they receive constructive feedback from professional adjudicators. For musically gifted students, opportunities are available to participate in All District Chorus and the VA Middle School Honors Choir.
Chorus 7/8 – (Yearlong by audition only)
As a pre-requisite to be in this Chorus, students must have at least one year of chorus and go through auditions. Auditions will be held in May for this class. Students currently enrolled in Grade 6 Chorus or Grade 7 Chorus may audition for this class. In the audition, students will be graded on their sight-singing as well as their tone, rhythmic accuracy, phrasing, and expression. This class will explore a deeper level of music theory, music history, and music of higher level of difficulty. Students will be using their sight-singing skills to learn their music. This class is for those students dedicated to improving their performance as well as reading skills and working with an ensemble with the same goals. The group will be balanced by section – soprano, alto, and baritone. As in the traditional Chorus 7 and Chorus 8 classes, performances will be required for a grade. There will be field trips and competitions, where students will receive feedback from professional adjudicators. Students in this class will also have the opportunity to audition for All-District Chorus and VA Middle School Honors Choir.
Drama 8 – (Semester Class)
Students will develop strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills. All will actively participate in pantomime, improvisation, public speaking, and drama performances during the semester. One evening performance is required during the semester.
Agri-science Technology – Metal Fabrication and Woodworking – (Semester Class)
Metal Working - Students will receive instruction in career training in the areas of agricultural fabrication and emerging technologies. Others topics covered are maintenance, arc welding, electricity, small engine theory, and metal working. Join the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and participate in career development events and community service activities.
Wood Working – Through laboratory activities, students will apply scientific principles to the field of agriculture including plants, animals, and ecology or conservation. This course introduces students to biotechnology as it relates to agriculture. Many woodworking projects will be designed and made. Other topics covered will be career exploration, public speaking, forestry, soils, gardening, and floral designs. Membership in the Future Farmers of America (FFA) will develop leadership skills.
Art 8-1 and Art 8-2 – (Semester Class)
Painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, computer art, clay, and projects inspired by our annual Arts Festival are just a few examples of the work students do throughout the year. Learn new skills, use your imagination, and express yourself! Find out why art is the antidote to standardized thinking. Please note that Art 8-1 and Art 8-2 classes are designed as a continuous course of study. Therefore, students may take one or both without repeating projects. “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” – Albert Einstein
Computer Applications 8 I and Computer Applications 8 II– (Semester Class)
Computer Application 8 I – Students will review correct keyboarding techniques and skills. By using Microsoft Office 2010, they will learn Word, Excel, Publisher, and PowerPoint or Prezi applications. There will be fun and interactive individual and group projects. Internet navigation and search techniques will be a big part of this class.
Computer Applications 8 II – Students must have completed Computer Applications I. Students will be taught Advanced Microsoft Office Skills.
Newspaper/Media – (Semester Class)
Having some computer experience is highly recommended. Students will interview students throughout the middle school and develop stories that will be put in our school’s newspaper. They will write, design, and publish the newspaper while exploring journalistic principles.
Technology Systems 8 – (Semester Class)
Students will explore systems of technology with rotations in the modular lab. In the lab, students will view videos, research, and complete activities dealing with the technological system. System exploration projects will include rocketry, deta dart planes, and boat hulls.
Family and Consumer Sciences 8 – (Semester Class)
Individual Development – This class will provide a foundation of management for personal, family, and community roles. Students will be taught responsible child care activities and prepare nutritious children’s snacks and drinks. Participating in the VA State Fair, students will design clothing and accessories as well as creating posters. Individually, students will participate in useful service projects, such as “STOP the Violence” and “Families First.” Membership in Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is offered to help improve leadership skills.
Resource Management – This class covers the areas of resource management, career exploration, and leadership development. It provides a foundation for planning and preparing nutritious meals, creating a sewing project using a pattern and sewing machine, and learning to manage money and time wisely. Students will explore all different careers and job opportunities. Membership in Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) will prepare students for community roles and responsibilities through class activities and service projects, such as “Career Connection,” “Financial Fitness,” and “Student Body.”
Course Placements for Students
The following criteria are used when deciding which students to place in advanced classes. This information has also been shared with Grade 5 teachers in the four elementary schools. Please see attachment, “2016-2017 Criteria For Advanced Classes,” for more information.
LCMS Sports Update
For more information about sports, please see https://sites.google.com/a/lcps.k12.va.us/lcms-athletics/
For more information about sports, please see https://sites.google.com/a/lcps.k12.va.us/lcms-athletics/
Middle Years – March 2016
In this month’s excerpt, parents can receive tips on how best to prepare their child for future careers, how to help their child deal with dilemmas, and tips for standardized test success. Please see the attachment, “March Middle Years 2016,” for more information.
After School Help – Tuesday, March 15 and Wednesday, March 16
Student Schedule for Monday, March 14 to Friday, March 25Monday, March 14 (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, March 14 (A): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Reading/Writing
On Tuesday, March 15 (A): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Reading/Writing
On Wednesday, March 16 (B): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Reading/Writing
On Thursday, March 17 (A): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 ACE Reading/Writing
On Friday, March 18 (B): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4: Club B or Reading
On Monday, March 21 (A): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1 Grade 8 Writing SOL Test
On Tuesday, March 22 (B): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 2
On Wednesday, March 23 (A): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 3 Grade 8 Writing SOL Test
On Thursday, March 24 (B): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4
On Friday, March 25 (A): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5
Updates
LCMS Student Council Association (SCA) Talent Show – Tuesday, April 12
LCMS Student Council Association (SCA) Talent Show – Tuesday, April 12
The SCA will be hosting its first talent show on Tuesday, April 12. We hope that as many students will wish to participate in this fun filled event! Do you love to perform? Maybe you belt out ballads, play an instrument, or dance? Perhaps you are a black belt in karate or love to make others laugh as a comedian? We are looking for you! Your Student Council Association is hosting a talent show this Spring. We are searching for entertainers who wish to try out to participate in our 1st Annual 2016 LCMS Talent Show. Anyone participating will have to commit to three after school dress rehearsals from 3:00 p.m. to 5:50 p.m. on Monday, April 4 to Wednesday, April 6. Students will need to be ready to perform on the talent show evening of Tuesday, April 12. The time will be forthcoming. Please know that depending on the number of acts that try out, not all will make the show.
Reality Store for Grade 8 Students – Friday, April 22All Grade 8 students will be introduced to Reality Store on Monday, April 18 and Tuesday, April 19. The budgeting lessons will be on Wednesday, April 20 and Thursday, April 21 with the Virginia Credit Union. Students will then have the opportunity to participate in Reality Store on Friday, April 22. Students will learn how to plan financially beyond high school as they visit different booths that are set up in the gymnasium. Students will learn what it takes to financially support themselves based on their level of education, job choice, income, and other additional costs, such as housing, food, and other expenses. This is a wonderful simulation for students to experience as well as to learn what it means to become financially independent.
Important Upcoming Dates – Added information and dates are marked in purple. *Please note that the week students return to school, they will be taking benchmark tests.
Friday, March 11: End of 3rd Marking Period.
Friday, March 11: LCMS Pot of Gold Dance from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the LCMS Cafeteria.
Monday, March 14: Students are in school. This is an “A” day. This is to even the number of A and B days in the months of March, April, and May.
Tuesday, March 15: This is also another “A” day.
Tuesday, March 15: Captain Howard L. Baugh visits LCMS.
Tuesday, March 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, March 18: End of the 3rd Marking Period. Club B or reading.
Friday, March 18-Saturday, March 19: C.R.A.V.E. for students. Students are dropped off at LCMS on Friday, March 18 at 9:00 p.m. Parents pick up students on Saturday, March 19 at 7:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 19.
Monday, March 21: Grade 8 Standards of Learning Writing Test.
Tuesday, March 22: Parent/Teacher Conferences. 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. by appointment and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. walk-ins.
Wednesday, March 23: Grade 8 Standards of Learning Writing Test.
Thursday, March 24: All County Music @ LCHS Auditorium from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Friday, March 25: Reports cards go home with students.
Monday, March 28-Friday, April 1: Spring Recess for students.
Monday, April 4: Classes resume for students. School doors open at 7:40 a.m.
Thursday, April 7: Picture Day.
Saturday, April 9: LCPS Arts Festival at LCMS.
Monday, April 11 – Friday, April 11: LCHS Counselors visit with Grade 8 students for high school scheduling.
Tuesday, April 12: First Annual SCA Talent Show in the LCMS Forum
Thursday, April 14: LCMS Spring Band Concert.
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.
Tuesday, April 19: Rising Grade 6 Parent Night (General Information) at LCMS Forum from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 20: Rising Grade 6 Parent Night (Special Education Information) at LCMS Forum from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, April 21: Interim reports sent home. LCMS Drama Performance at 6:30 p.m. @ LCMS Forum.
Friday, April 22: Reality Store for Grade 8 students.
Monday, April 25: Reading 8 Standards of Learning Test. Reading 6 Standards of Learning Test Paper and Pencil only.
Tuesday, April 26: Rising Grade 6 Band Night with Kathy Allen @ LCMS from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 27: Reading 6 Standards of Learning Test.
Thursday, April 28: All Virginia Middle School Choir.
Friday, April 29: All Virginia Middle School Choir. Civics 8 Standards of Learning test.
Friday, April 29: Grades 5, 6, and 7 Dance at LCMS from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Tuesday, May 3: Reading 7 SOL
Thursday, May 5: Math 8 SOL
Monday, May 9: Math 6 SOL
Wednesday, May 11: Algebra I SOL
Friday, May 13: Math 7 SOL
Monday, May 16: Science 8 SOL
Wednesday, May 18: LCMS Spring Chorus Concert at 7:00 p.m. @ LCHS Alan Jackson Auditorium
Saturday, May 21: Grade 8 Formal at LCMS Cafeteria from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Tuesday, May 24: Grade 8 Washington, D.C. Field Trip
Wednesday, May 25: Grade 8 Closing Ceremony Practice (Morning) and Grade 8 Field Day (Afternoon)
Thursday, May 26: End of 4th Marking Period. Grade 8 Closing Ceremony. Grade 6 and Grade 7 Field Days. Last day of school.
Friday, May 27: Teacher Workday.
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
Principal
Louisa County Middle School
