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

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Principal's Update for March 3, 2016

Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends:

Congratulations to LCMS Cheerleading team who took 3rd place out of 5 competing teams in a close competition. Our cheerleaders competed in the 4th Annual Culpeper Classic Cheer Competition on Thursday, February 25. Way to go Elizabeth Bradford, Mikayla Carpenter, Kamiera Ford, Chassy Groome, Abigail Grove, Abrielle Hall, Olivia Hurley, Ariana Jackson, Savannah Marcum, Kamryn Noel, Hope Powers, Neisha Ragland, Savanah Ray, Alexys Rowe, Riely Smith, Taylor Talley, Rebecca Jayde Tucker, and Harper Whitehead, as well as a big thanks to Coach Sarah Martin for her vision and leadership!

We are also very proud of 8th grade students, Alexis Lago and Victoria Moore, who ranked 4th place in Serious Duo (Alternate) at the Conference 19 Forensics Tournament on Thursday, February 25!

Another celebration further goes to Abbie Alpern and Moriah Moss who have been selected for the 2nd time to the All-VA Middle School Choir. This event will be held in Virginia Beach on from Thursday, April 28 to Saturday, April 30. Your hard work and efforts have made all the difference, and we are very proud of you both! Thank you also to Jelita Hopkins (LCHS Chorus/Drama teacher) for her assistance in getting their recording made.

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 3rdmarking 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 – India Bachelor and Zane Chiles
India Bachelor and Zane Chiles 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 7 to Friday, March 11, we will have two new guest speakers to assist us with the announcements: Caylib fisher and Brandan Fowler.

PTA Fundraiser – Friday, March 4
A reminder that the last day for students to participate in the Great American Fundraiser will be on Friday, March 4. For those students who have sold a certain amount, they will have the opportunity to attend the PTA After School Glow Party. More information will be forthcoming on the date and time of this event. For more information about the party for students, please contact PTA Representative, Shanna Hart, at rustyandshanna@gmail.com

Grade 7 Students and Penny Drive – Monday, March 7
The 7th Grade Social Studies department is excited to announce that students have beat last year’s donation of 53,200 pennies. Presently, LCMS has collected 66,815 pennies! The penny drive will be running until Monday, March 7. Thank you to all of our students for making such a difference!

LCMS Sports Update – Spring Sports Parent Meeting – Tuesday, March 8
There have been some updates on try-outs. The Spring Sports Parent meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 8 at 6:00 p.m. in the Forum. For more information about sports, please seehttps://sites.google.com/a/lcps.k12.va.us/lcms-athletics/

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. After discussing all of the above with your parents or guardians, if you (students) are able to try out, please fill out the form with your parents that will be given to you on Thursday, March 3. Please see the attachment, “LCMS SCA Talent Show,” for more information.

Course Request Sheets for 2016-2017 School Year
Students will be receiving more information in later weeks. Conversations with students 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 next 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 the 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 been shared with Grade 5 teachers in the four elementary schools. Please see attachment, “2016-2017 Criteria For Advanced Classes,” for more information.

After School Help – Tuesday, March 8 and Wednesday, March 9

Student Schedule for Monday, March 7 to Friday, March 18Monday, March 7 (B): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1 (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 1 class.)

On Monday, March 7 (B):                              1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1
On Tuesday, March 8 (A):                              1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 2
On Wednesday, March 9 (B):                         1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 3
On Thursday, March 10 (A):                          1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4
On Friday, March 11 (B):                               1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5

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

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 4: PTA Fundraiser ends. Students should bring their packets.
Monday, March 7: Science Benchmark.
Monday, March 7 – Friday, March 11: LCMS Book Fair
Tuesday, March 8: Spring Sports Parent Meeting at 6:00 p.m. in the LCMS Forum
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 Spring Chorus Concert.
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.

Saturday, May 21: Grade 8 Formal at LCMS Cafeteria from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 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