Principal's Update for January 25, 2016

Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends:

I hope all of you are staying warm and dry. I would like to personally thank David
Szalankiewicz, the Director of Facilities, and his entire crew for working so diligently, even today, to ensure the safety of our facilities. As you know, there is no school tomorrow on Monday, January 25.

Until then, I would like to share with your some exciting news of what had occurred last week at LCMS.

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 – Robert Sheedy and KeiAhja Shelton
Robert Sheedy and KeiAhja Shelton did an outstanding job with morning announcements! They were clear in their delivery of messages and enunciated each word with great accuracy. Without their help, Morning Announcements would not be as fun, enjoyable, or even as informative. Our two guest speakers will be: Brynn Straley and Courtney Toews.

Battle of the Books Competition – Saturday, January 9
The Battle of the Book competition was hosted by Warrenton Middle School. Over forty teams participated in this event. LCMS had two teams in the competition. The Grimm Readers came in 2nd place, and The Pretty Little Readers came in 6th place. Both teams did an outstanding job! Congratulations to Trinity MacDonald, Morgan McKnight, and Amber Thompson of the Grimm Readers as well as to Abbie Alpern, Anne Cassett, Alexis Lagon, Victoria Moore, and Danielle Perry of The Pretty Little Readers. Thank you to Greta Cameron (English 8 teacher), Jennifer Filer (Librarian staff), Conner Waldron (Grade 6 Social Studies teacher), and Laura Watkins (Grade 7 English teacher) for volunteering on Saturday, January 9. A big shout out to Rebecca Baughman (Librarian staff) for your leadership in this club!

Dr. Ken Fan’s Visit to Louisa County Middle School – Tuesday, January 19
On Tuesday, January 19, Dr. Fan visited LCMS to give all three grade levels different math lectures. Dr. Fan shared with Grade 6 students the power of exponents and how exponents can be depicted. 
Grade 6 students saw a video on making Chinese noodles and how Chinese noodles grow exponentially. With Grade 7 students, he talked about the equation of a line and how a mathematical formula was derived to help determine the gender of red tailed hawks with 98% accuracy based on their flight patterns. With Grade 8 students, he explored how concrete and abstract math are interrelated and that Grade 8 math is the cornerstone for calculus. He talked about the formulations of the square and of the cube using simple numbers. 

Dr. Fan then met with various groups of math teachers and their students in Grades 6, 7, and 8 to listen and to observe math instruction at LCMS. Dr. Fan then provided our math teachers with feedback. Later, in the afternoon, Dr. Fan hosted a treasure hunt for 75 of our students. Students in Grades 6, 7, and 8 were asked to solve complex math problems in order to find the combination to a lock, which would unlock their prizes. With only five minutes left, Grade 6 students without the assistance of any adult solved their math riddles with accuracy and unlocked the chest. Students in Grades 7 and 8 are continuing to work on solving the various problems. It is anticipated that they will solve their problems in the very near future.

Dr. Fan’s message was clear: Anyone can do math. It is about hard work, tenacity, and perseverance. Mistakes are inevitable in this journey of learning. It is about the process of learning how to do the problem, and not just the answer itself.

We are thankful for Dr. Fan’s visit, and we look forward to a continual relationship with Dr. Fan and Girl’s Angle.

573 Students Earned A’s and B’s
Congratulations to 573 students who earned all A’s and B’s on their second marking period report cards. One hundred and seventy students earned all A’s. The second marking period Honor Roll signs are in the cafeteria to recognize these students’ hard work and efforts! Congratulations! We are proud of you and your accomplishments.

Spelling Bee Results
Congratulations to the following students who have qualified to compete in the grade-level spelling bees! These are the top ten spellers from each grade level and any other student who earned the same score as the tenth speller. In Grade 6, the following students will be moving onward to the next round: Jakayla Anderson, Makayla Blair, Giovanni Brown, Grace Hannah Buck, Ella Burch, Caiden Davenport, Viktoriya Fomin, Devyn Fox, Asia Leslie, Faith Leslie, and Teena Siribandu. In Grade 7, Haley Alvis, Felicity Barboza, Anne Cassett, Aleigha Chandler, Emily Eppard, Brandan Fowler, Malachi Lawson, Joshua Main, Kaela Morgan, Halee Prueher, Colton Rigsby, Rachel Upshur, and Branden Wood will be moving onward. In Grade 8, these students will move forward to the next round: Ethan Cooley, Madison Fish, Laura Garrett, Ginny Helmandollar, Jakob Johnson, Troy Knighton, Aimea Kuhstoss, Jamieson Powell, Jacob Robey, Ethan Snyder, and Ryan Wheeler.

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW) – Monday, Jan. 25 – Sunday, Jan. 31
NDAFW begins on Monday, January 25 and runs through Sunday, January 31. Deputy Nathan Harris and Department Chair of Health and Wellness Terry Marks will be hosting this event. Each morning, a question will be read to students, who have the opportunity to answer the question during lunch. Winners will receive a special prize. For more information about NDAFW and the latest fact-based information on drug abuse, please see the website: https://teens.drugabuse.gov/national-drug-alcohol-facts-week. Thank you for your support on this important initiative!

Student Attendance and Student Tardies
Beginning in January 2016, LCMS will be sending home letters to those students who have unverified absences of 5, 10 and 15 more days. The purpose of sending home such letters is to bring awareness of the number of missed days that a student may have and the importance of being in school and in class consistently in order to receive vital information and instruction. Within the month of December, LCMS had an average of 40 students coming to school late each morning. When students arrive to school late on a regular basis and/or miss classes on a regular basis, they are missing important information. Thus, as a goal for LCMS, we want all of our students to be present, and participating in the fun and learning at school. My staff and I appreciate your help and support in advance!

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's Update for January 14, 2016

Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends:

Thank you for spending time with my staff and me at Parent Teacher Conferences on Thursday, January 14. We hope that this opportunity to speak with your child’s teachers were helpful!

Furthermore, we are extremely excited to host Dr. Ken Fan from Cambridge, MA. I would personally like to thank Principal Lee Downey for letting us use the Alan Jackson Auditorium and to Greg Dorazio for helping to set up the technology for these math talks. As a reminder, because students will be walking to the high school with their teachers to listen to these lectures, please remind your child to bring a jacket and/or to wear appropriate clothing to walk over to the high school.

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 – Erika Seaberry

Erika Seaberry did an outstanding job with morning announcements! She was clear in her delivery of messages and enunciated each word with great accuracy. Without her help, Morning Announcements would not be as fun, enjoyable, or even as informative. From Tuesday, January 19 to Friday, January 22, we will have two new guest speakers to assist us with the announcements: Robert Sheedy and KeiAhja Shelton.

Battle of the BooksThe Battle of the Book competition was hosted today by Warrenton Middle School. Over forty teams participated in this event. LCMS had two teams in the competition. The Grimm Readers came in 2nd place, and The Pretty Little Readers came in 6th place. Both teams did an outstanding job! Congratulations to Trinity MacDonald, Morgan McKnight, and Amber Thompson of the Grimm Readers as well as to Abbie Alpern, Anne Cahill, Alexis Lagon, Victoria Moore, and Danielle Perry of The Pretty Little Readers. Thank you to Greta Cameron (English 8 teacher), Jennifer Filer (Librarian staff), Conner Waldron (Grade 6 Social Studies teacher), and Laura Watkins (Grade 7 English teacher) for volunteering on Saturday, January 9. A big shout out to Rebecca Baughman (Librarian staff) for your leadership in this club!

LCHS Wrestling On Friday, January 8 and Saturday, January 9, Louisa's County High School wrestling team placed 3rd in their 15-team David Wells Memorial wrestling tournament. In 1976, David Wells was a State Champion for Andrew Lewis High School in Salem, VA, which is now a middle school. In 1993, he started the Louisa Youth Wrestling Club. Louisa’s top 4 leaders in career victories all received their start in this club. In addition to youth wrestling, David Wells was the pack leader for Cub Scout Pack #183 and a coach for Louisa Youth Soccer. In 2003, he became Commissioner of the Charlottesville Wresting Referees Association. David Wells passed away in 2007 at the age of 50. His influence is still felt today in the youth program that he started as well as with the wrestlers and coaches whom he mentored. The Louisa Wrestling Program would not be what it is today without the work and dedication of  David Wells. This tournament has been held every year at LCHS but was placed on hold after the earthquake. This was the first year that this tournament was brought back to Louisa. There were teams who competed from all over Virginia. The Louisa Wrestling Program looks forward to hosting many more tournaments in memory of David Wells. A great big thanks to wrestling coaches: Trevor Gallo, Dan Bono, Ty Boyer, and Dan Leale for their vision and dedication to wrestling and to our students!

Congratulations LCMS Team Players – Second Nine WeeksThese 12 students were voted on and chosen by faculty members for their display of fairness, trustworthiness, compassion, and kindness. We are so proud of you! You are leaders in our school! In Grade 6, the team players are: Kourtney Dalton, Troy Fischer, Owen Greslick, and Madison Middlesworth. In Grade 7, the students chosen were: Olivia Chenault, Nate Dwyer, Kenneth Michael Spencer, and Desaray Winston. In Grade 8, the students selected were: Mark Allen Evans, Noah Klotz, Sabrina Lawhorne, and Neisha Ragland.

Grade 7 Students in Talented and Gifted (TAG) Program to The Little Lion – Wednesday, February 3Grade 7 students in the TAG Program will take a field trip to Swift Creek Mill Theatre to see the play, The Little Lion, on Wednesday, February 3. Students will be called out of Period 1 immediately when the bell rings at 7:55 a.m. and will return to school around 2:30 p.m. Set in the Kovno Ghetto in Lithuania during World War II, this powerful story chronicles the struggle of a Jewish family’s survival of the Holocaust and the heroism of Laibale Gillman, a teenaged boy, known as the little lion, who never stopped fighting for freedom. Thank you to Hope Hamblin (Grade 7 Social Studies teacher) for taking our students to such an event!

Information about LCMS Sports and Tryouts On Friday, January 15, there will be a middle school baseball interest meeting for students in Grades 7 and 8, which will take place during the last ten minutes of each lunch shift. Tuesday, February 16 will be the tryout date for Grade 8 students. Wednesday, February 17 will be the tryout dates for Grade 7 students. Thursday, February 18 will be call backs for Grade 7 and Grade 8 students.

Middle school softball dates for tryouts will be from Tuesday, February 16 to Thursday, February 18. Cuts will be made on Friday, February 19. Middle school will have conditioning every Wednesday and Thursday starting on Wednesday, January 20. Wednesday conditioning will be held with Coach Alex Waleski at the middle school field. Thursday conditioning will be held at the high school field as a combination day for both middle school and high school students.

Informational meetings for outdoor track will be held on Thursday, January 21 during the last ten minutes of each lunch shift. Girls will meet in the Forum, while boys will convene in the gym.

For more information about LCMS Sports and Tryouts, please see https://sites.google.com/a/lcps.k12.va.us/lcms-athletics/

Student Attendance and Student Tardies

Beginning in January 2016, LCMS will be sending home letters to those students who have unverified absences of 5, 10 and 15 more days. The purpose of sending home such letters is to bring awareness of the number of missed days that a student may have and the importance of being in school and in class consistently in order to receive vital information and instruction. Within the month of December, LCMS had an average of 40 students coming to school late each morning. When students arrive to school late on a regular basis and/or miss classes on a regular basis, they are missing important information. Thus, as a goal for LCMS, we want all of our students to be present, and participating in the fun and learning at school. My staff and I appreciate your help and support in advance!

After School Help – Tuesday, January 19 and Wednesday, January 20

Student Schedule for Tuesday, January 19 to Friday, January 29Tuesday, January 19 (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, January 18:                                Division Holiday. No school for staff and students. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

On Tuesday, January 19 (A):                       1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 Dr. Ken Fan visits LCMS. ACE Math begins.

On Wednesday, January 20 (B):                     1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4

On Thursday, January 21 (A):                        1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4

On Friday, January 22 (B):                             1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 Club B or Reading

On Monday, January 25 (A):                          1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4

On Tuesday, January 26 (B):                          1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4

On Wednesday, January 27 (A):                    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4

On Thursday, January 28 (B):                         1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4

On Friday, January 29 (A):                             1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 Club A or Reading

Updates

Grade 7 Students to Richmond Holocaust Museum – Tuesday, March 8 through Friday, March 11Grade 7 Social Studies teachers will be taking their classes on a field trip to the Richmond Holocaust Museum from Tuesday, March 8 to Friday, March 11. The Social Studies Department will also be running a penny drive in an effort to help the museum collect 6 million pennies - one penny for each Jewish life lost during the Holocaust. Due to the size of the museum, each Social Studies teacher will be taking his or her classes on the following days:

Hope Hamblin will take her classes on Tuesday, March 8.
Beth Brown will take her classes on Wednesday, March 9.
Nell Stover will take her classes on Thursday, March 10.
Ty Boyer and Ed Heisig will take their classes on Friday, March 11.

We look forward to the learning that our students will acquire on this trip! Thank you to the Grade 7 Social Studies Department for taking our students on this field trip!

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

Tuesday, January 19: Classes resume for students. School doors open at 7:40 a.m. Dr. Ken Fan visits LCMS. Please remind your child to wear a jacket and/or appropriate clothing as we will be walking to the high school auditorium to listen to Dr. Ken Fan’s math lectures.

Friday, January 22: Club B or reading.

Friday, January 22: LCMS Dance from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the LCMS Cafeteria.

Friday, January 29: Club A or reading.

Friday, February 5: Club B or reading.

Monday, February 8: Interim reports go home with students.

Tuesday, February 9: Grade-Level Spelling Bee @ LCMS Forum

Wednesday, February 10: Science Fair Awards at 6:00 p.m. @ LCMS Forum.

Friday, February 12: Club A or reading.

Friday, February 12 – Saturday, February 13: All District Chorus at Culpeper Middle School

Monday, February 15: Staff Development Day. No school for students.

Tuesday, February 16: Classes resume for students. School door opens at 7:40 a.m.

Tuesday, February 16: 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.

Wednesday, February 17: English 8 Benchmark (Multiple choice/writing simulation).

Friday, February 19: English 8 Benchmark (Writing prompt/essay simulation).

Friday, February 19: LCMS Dance from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the LCMS Cafeteria.

Monday, February 22: English 6 Benchmark.

Tuesday, February 23: English 7 Benchmark.

Tuesday, February 23: District-wide Spelling Bee.

Thursday, February 25: Social Studies Benchmark.

Friday, February 26: Drama Field Trip to Swift Creek Mill Theatre to see the play, “The Little Lion”

Monday, March 7 – Friday, March 11: LCMS Book Fair

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

Principal's Update for January 12, 2016

Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends:

A reminder that parent teacher conferences are on Thursday, January 14. If you are interested in setting up a 15 minute appointment with your teacher from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. please email or contact your teacher. Walk-ins are from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. that night. Please note that teachers will be unavailable until 3:30 p.m. as they are finishing up with their day. Should you arrive between 3:09 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. please feel free to join me in the cafeteria!

Further, your child will be bringing home today another copy of his or her report card. Your child’s grades on the first copy of the report card were accurate. However, due to a slight glitch in PowerSchool, we noticed that teacher comments for Marking Period 1 were put in place as opposed to teacher comments for Marking Period 2. This has now been fixed on PowerSchool. Thus, the newly printed out report cards reflect the correct teachers’ comments for Marking Period 2. Please note that if your child brings home the exact same report card, that is also correct. Not all teachers made comments for students. We just wanted to ensure that you and your child received the most accurate teacher comments.

Finally, please note that your child’s report card also contains a column for “absences” and “tardies” for each period. If your child had to leave early from class, the “leave early’s” were also rolled into the tardy column.

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.

We look forward to seeing you on Thursday!

With warm regards,

Lisa C. Chen

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

Principal's Update for January 8, 2016

Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends:

Recently, all students have met or are in the process of meeting with their assistant principals and teachers. The assistant principals along with students’ grade-level teachers have reviewed expectations with their students. In these assemblies, students are reminded to always put their best foot forward and are encouraged to achieve excellence in both academics and with their behaviors. Students are reminded of the importance of being kind and respectful to one another and of maintaining a clean school. Students were also reminded of the importance of maintaining solid grades and of “After School Help.” Another key point shared with students was arriving to school and classes on time so that students do not miss any important information. Finally, students were encouraged to get a good night sleep every night and that we care a great deal about them. We believe in their potentials!

Further, students in their social studies classes have been receiving training on how to use the student portal on PowerSchool. This will provide students with the opportunity to check on any missed assignments and their grades

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 – Iris Posadas and Aaliyah Powell

Iris Posadas and Aaliyah Powell did an outstanding job with morning announcements! They were clear in their delivery of messages. They enunciated each word with great accuracy. Without their help, Morning Announcements would not be as fun, enjoyable, or even as informative. From Monday, January 11 to Friday, January 15, we will have two new guest speakers to assist us with the announcements: Kerstin Sacra and Erika Seaberry.

Ornament Sale

The LCMS Ornament Sale brought in a total of $542.00. This donation will help to fund the Backpack Blessings Program from now until the entire summer. This program helps to provide food for families in need on the weekends. A great big thanks to Gail Carlin (Art teacher) and to our art students for making these beautiful ornaments.

Reminder Pick-up Procedure

To ensure safety of all of our students, please remember that between the hours of 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. no vehicles are allowed to park in the main entrance loop. All parents and caregivers picking up children at the middle school during this time period will use parking spaced in the Central Office parking lot. This pick-up procedure has helped to reduce frequent backups onto the Davis Highway blocking departing vehicles’ view of approaching traffic. In this past, this issue has resulted in vehicle accidents and many close calls. Thus, to mitigate the identified risks, please do not park your cars in the main entrance loop during this time. We really appreciate your help in this matter! It is to ensure your safety and those of our students. Thank you!

Student Attendance and Student Tardies

Beginning in January 2016, LCMS will be sending home letters to those students who have unverified absences of 5, 10 and 15 more days. The purpose of sending home such letters is to bring awareness of the number of missed days that a student may have and the importance of being in school and in class consistently in order to receive vital information and instruction. Within the month of December, LCMS had an average of 40 students coming to school late each morning. When students arrive to school late on a regular basis and/or miss classes on a regular basis, they are missing important information. Thus, as a goal for LCMS, we want all of our students to be present, and participating in the fun and learning at school. My staff and I appreciate your help and support in advance!

Girls on the Run – Monday January 11On Monday, January 11, each 6th grade girl will receive an information packet on Girls on the Run during their Health/Physical Education class. This packet includes all information parents or guardians will need to know about the Girls on the Run Club, including registration. Registration will begin on Monday, January 11. There will be fifteen available spots. This is based on first come, first serve basis, so the earlier students register, the better. The first practice will begin on Monday, February 1. Practices will run immediately after school on Monday’s and Wednesday’s from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sara Boyer (Grade 6 English teacher), Jordan Goodwin (Grade 6 Special Education teacher), and Conner Waldron (Grade 6 Social Studies teacher) will be assisting in Girls on the Run. If there are any questions please contact Jordan Goodwin atgoodwijc@lcps.k12.va.us

Parent Teacher Conferences – Thursday, January 14

A reminder that parent teacher conferences are on Thursday, January 14. If you are interested in setting up a 15 minute appointment with your teacher from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. please email or contact your teacher. Walk-ins are from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. that night. Please note that teachers will be unavailable until 3:30 p.m. as they are finishing up with their day. Should you arrive between 3:09 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. please feel free to join me in the cafeteria! We look forward to seeing you then!

After School Help – Tuesday, 12 and Wednesday, January 13

Dr. Ken Fan Visits LCMS – Tuesday, January 19

On Tuesday, January 19, Dr. Ken Fan will visit LCMS from Cambridge, MA. Dr. Ken Fan was the Benjamin Peirce Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Harvard University. He received his Ph.D. in Mathematics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He has published several articles, received awards such as the National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship in Mathematics, and is a talented oil painter. His passion and devotion to math led him to create a nonprofit math club for girls based in Cambridge, MA. Founded in 2007, Girls’ Angle offers a comprehensive approach to math education, including Girls’ Angle mentors, who are at the heart and soul of this club. Dr. Ken Fan hosts several math meets and competitions in New England. At these meets, students have the opportunity to meet mentors from Brown University, Harvard University, MIT, and Tufts.

On Tuesday, January 19. Dr. Fan will present math talks to all students in Grade 6, Grade 7, and Grade 8 at the Alan Jackson Auditorium in LCHS. Students will walk from the middle school to the high school with their math teachers for a 30 minute math talk with Dr. Ken Fan. Following that, Dr. Fan will visit with some math classes. Later, in the afternoon, Dr. Fan will host a math meet or scavenger event for some students. Seventy-five students will be involved in solving some complex math questions. As a result of finding the solution to their problems, students will unlock their prizes that are enclosed in a locked treasure chest. We look forward to hosting Dr. Ken Fan on Tuesday, January 19!

Student Schedule for Monday, January 11 to Friday, January 22Monday, January 11 (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 1class.)

On Monday, January 11 (B):                          1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1 Report cards go home.

On Tuesday, January 12 (A):                          1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 2

On Wednesday, January 13 (B):                     1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 3

On Thursday, January 14 (A):                        1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 Parent Teacher Conferences. 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. appointment or 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. walk-ins.

On Friday, January 15 (B):                             1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5

On Monday, January 18:                                Division Holiday. No school for staff and students. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

On Tuesday, January 19 (A):                          1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 Dr. Ken Fan visits LCMS.

On Wednesday, January 20 (B):                     1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4

On Thursday, January 21 (A):                        1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4

On Friday, January 22 (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.

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.

Monday, January 11: Report cards are sent home.

Monday, January 12: 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, January 14: Parent teacher conferences 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. appointments only, and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. walk-ins.

Monday, January 18: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. No school for students.

Tuesday, January 19: Classes resume for students. School doors open at 7:40 a.m. Dr. Ken Fan visits LCMS.

Friday, January 22: Club B or reading.

Friday, January 22: LCMS Dance from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the LCMS Cafeteria.

Friday, January 29: Club A or reading.

Friday, February 5: Club B or reading.

Monday, February 8: Interim reports go home with students.

Tuesday, February 9: Grade-Level Spelling Bee @ LCMS Forum

Wednesday, February 10: Science Fair Awards at 6:00 p.m. @ LCMS Forum.

Friday, February 12: Club A or reading.

Friday, February 12 – Saturday, February 13: All District Chorus at Culpepper Middle School

Monday, February 15: Staff Development Day. No school for students.

Tuesday, February 16: Classes resume for students. School door opens at 7:40 a.m.

Tuesday, February 16: 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.

Wednesday, February 17: English 8 Benchmark (Multiple choice/writing simulation).

Friday, February 19: English 8 Benchmark (Writing prompt/essay simulation).

Friday, February 19: LCMS Dance from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the LCMS Cafeteria.

Monday, February 22: English 6 Benchmark.

Tuesday, February 23: English 7 Benchmark.

Tuesday, February 23: District-wide Spelling Bee.

Thursday, February 25: Social Studies Benchmark.

Friday, February 26: Drama Field Trip to Swift Creek Mill Theatre to see the play, “The Little Lion”

Monday, March 7 – Friday, March 11: LCMS Book Fair

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

Principal's Update for January 1, 2016

Dear LCMS Bobcat Family and Friends:

Welcome to 2016! I wish your families and you much happiness, peace, and good health. I look forward to another great year of learning with your children and partnering with you.

As a reminder, school doors will open at 7:40 a.m. on Wednesday, January 6, which is an “A” day. All students will receive new schedules on Wednesday, January 6. Students’ core classes will not change. However, students, who are NOT enrolled in yearlong electives, will have different electives.

Upon arrival to school, students in Grades 6 and 7 will go to their first period classes at 7:55 a.m. (Students in Grade 6 will receive their new schedules in Period 4. Students in Grade 7 will receive their new schedules during Period 1.)

Upon arrival to school, Grade 8 students will first go to their Period 4 classes to pick up their schedules at 7:55 a.m. After Grade 8 students have picked up their new schedules from their Period 4 classes, they will then report to their first period classes at 8:00 a.m.

The bell schedule remains the same.

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 – Lexi Molineaux and Maddox Pleasants

Lexi Molineaux and Maddox Pleasants did an outstanding job with morning announcements! They were clear in their delivery of messages. They enunciated each word with great accuracy. Without their help, Morning Announcements would not be as fun, enjoyable, or even as informative. From Wednesday, January 6 to Friday, January 8, we will have two new guest speakers to assist us with the announcements: Iris Posadas and Aaliyah Powell.

Richmond Ballet – Wednesday, December 16

On Wednesday, December 16, students in the Talented and Gifted program partook in a field trip to see the Richmond Ballet perform the holiday classic, "The Nutcracker." Students enjoyed the accompaniment of a live orchestra, the Richmond Symphony. Prior to the show, students learned a little bit about ballet itself, the history of the show, and how the historical Loew's Theater in Downtown Richmond is known as the Carpenter Theater today. Following the performance, students enjoyed lunch at CiCi's Pizza, where the restaurant was practically shut down just for them! There were many smiles, laughs, and exclamations of excitement throughout the day! I would like to thank out our parent chaperones, students for representing LCMS in such a positive manner, and the leadership of Hope Hamblin (Grade 7 Social Studies teacher), Kristina Johnson (Grades 7 and 8 Math teacher), and Sarah Martin (Grade 6 Social Studies teacher) for spearheading such an event.

Louisa County Resource Center Thanks LCMS Students and Staff

The Social Studies department would like to thank students, parents, and staff for participating in a canned food drive that benefitted the Louisa County Resource Council. Over 1435 pounds of canned food were donated to this organization, which helped to assist many families in Louisa! According to Executive Director, Lloyd Runnett, the canned good that were picked up from LCMS were divided into bags and shared with over 3,000 neighbors. I would personally like to thank Grade 7 Social Studies teachers, Beth Brown, Hope Hamblin, and Eleanor Stover, for initiating such a great idea!

Student Attendance and Student Tardies

Beginning in January 2016, LCMS will be sending home letters to those students who have unverified absences of 5, 10 and 15 more days. The purpose of sending home such letters is to bring awareness of the number of missed days that a student may have and the importance of being in school and in class consistently in order to receive vital information and instruction. Within the month of December, LCMS had an average of 40 students coming to school late each morning. When students arrive to school late on a regular basis and/or miss classes on a regular basis, they are missing important information. Thus, as a goal for LCMS, we want all of our students to be present, and participating in the fun and learning at school. My staff and I appreciate your help and support in advance!

Student Portal – PowerSchool

Upon students’ return to LCMS in January 2016, all students in their Social Studies classes will receive training on how to use the student portal on PowerSchool. This will provide students with the opportunity to check on missed assignments and their grades. A letter will be forthcoming from students’ social studies teachers.

Parent Teacher Conferences – Thursday, January 14

A reminder that parent teacher conferences are on Thursday, January 14. If you are interested in setting up a 15 minute appointment with your teacher from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. please email or contact your teacher. Walk-ins are from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. that night. Please note that teachers will be unavailable until 3:30 p.m. as they are finishing up with their day. Should you arrive between 3:09 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. please feel free to join me in the cafeteria! We look forward to seeing you then!

Blue Ridge Virtual Governor’s School (BRVGS) Application Process

As the final part of the Blue Ridge Virtual Governor’s School application process, your son or daughter must interview, take achievement and ability tests, and complete an essay administered by the school. These parts of the application process will occur during the month of January. BRVGS applicants will take the Standford 10 Science test and the Otis Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT) on Tuesday, January 12, during Periods 1 and 2, and the Stanford 10 Reading Comprehension and Math Problem Solving tests on Wednesday, January 13, during Periods 1 and 2. Applicants will take the essay test on Wednesday, January 20, during Period 1. Interviews will be held on Wednesday, January 27 and on Thursday, January 28. Your son or daughter will be assigned to a 10-minute interview slot on one of these two days. Students will be excused from their classes on these days, but will be required to make up their missed work.

A letter will be forthcoming to your child who is involved in the application process for permission from the parent in order to participate in the required BRVGS testing, interview, and essay administration. Please note that a student cannot retest after completing the testing. If your son or daughter is ill during the designated testing times, a testing time will need to be rescheduled. If parents have questions, please feel free to contact Sarah Porter (Grade 8 Guidance Counselor) at portersa@lcps.k12.va.us or Todd Ryan (LCHS School Counseling Director) atryante@lcps.k12.va.us

Spelling Bee Rounds

Around the weeks of January 6 and January 11, all students will be involved in the preliminary rounds of the grade-level spelling bee. Teachers will be notified by Wednesday, January 20 of the top 10 spellers in the grade-level preliminary round. The top ten spellers will then go on to the grade-level bee on Tuesday, February 9. On Tuesday, February 9, Grade 8 spellers will compete during Period 2, Grade 7 students will compete during Period 3, and Grade 6 students will compete during Period 5. From there, the top two grade-level spellers plus one alternate will move onward to the district-side spelling bee on Tuesday, February 23. Please see the attached study guides for spelling words for each grade-level: Grade 6 Guide,  Grade 7 Guide,  Grade 8 Guide.

Middle Years – January 2016

For more information for helping your child to study, please see the attachment, “January 2016.”

After School Help – Wednesday, January 6

Student Schedule for Wednesday, January 6 to Friday, January 15

Wednesday, January 6 (A): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 3 (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 3 class.)

On Monday, January 4:                                  No school for students. Teacher workday.

On Tuesday, January 5:                                  No school for students. Professional Day for teachers.

On Wednesday, January 6 (A):                      1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 3 Classes resume for students. LCMS doors open at 7:40 a.m.

On Thursday, January 7 (B):                          1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4

On Friday, January 8 (A):                               1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5 Club A or Reading

On Monday, January 11 (B):                          1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1 Report cards go home.

On Tuesday, January 12 (A):                          1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 2

On Wednesday, January 13 (B):                     1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 3

On Thursday, January 14 (A):                        1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4 Parent Teacher Conferences. 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. appointment or 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. walk-ins.

On Friday, January 15 (B):                             1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5

Updates

2015-2016 Cassini Science for a Day Essay Contest

This contest is open to students in grades 5-12. Essays much be under 500 words. There are three essay topics that students can choose:

·         Target 1. Saturn’s rings and three moons

·         Target 2: Tethys, Enceladus, and Mimas

·         Target 3: Saturn’s moon, Tethys, passing behind Rhea (27-frame movie).

Students will choose one of these topics to write an essay about why they think this image should be taken by the Cassini spacecraft. What questions do they hope will be answered by taking this picture? For contest rules, videos about each essay topic, a downloadable contest flyer, frequently asked questions, and more information, please visit http:go.nasa.gov/1lPEmxn

2016 Summer Enrichment Program

The University of Virginia Curry School of Education is offering an exciting opportunity for gifted and high ability students currently in grades 4-10. The online application is available at curry.virginia.edu/sep

Applications are due Monday, February 15.

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.

Monday, December 21- Friday, January 1: Winter Break. No school for students.

Monday, January 4 – Teacher Workday. No school for students.

Tuesday, January 5: Staff Development Day. No school for students.

Wednesday, January 6: Classes resume for student. School doors open at 7:40 a.m.

Friday, January 8: Club A or reading.

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.

Monday, January 11: Report cards are sent home.

Monday, January 12: 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, January 14: Parent teacher conferences 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. appointments only, and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. walk-ins.

Monday, January 18: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. No school for students.

Tuesday, January 19: Classes resume for students. School doors open at 7:40 a.m.

Friday, January 22: Club B or reading.

Friday, January 22: LCMS Dance from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the LCMS Cafeteria.

Friday, January 29: Club A or reading.

Friday, February 5: Club B or reading.

Monday, February 8: Interim reports go home with students.

Tuesday, February 9: Grade-Level Spelling Bee @ LCMS Forum

Wednesday, February 10: Science Fair Awards at 6:00 p.m. @ LCMS Forum.

Friday, February 12: Club A or reading.

Monday, February 15: Staff Development Day. No school for students.

Tuesday, February 16: Classes resume for students. School door opens at 7:40 a.m.

Tuesday, February 16: 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.

Wednesday, February 17: English 8 Benchmark (Multiple choice/writing simulation).

Friday, February 19: English 8 Benchmark (Writing prompt/essay simulation).

Friday, February 19: LCMS Dance from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the LCMS Cafeteria.

Monday, February 22: English 6 Benchmark.

Tuesday, February 23: English 7 Benchmark.

Tuesday, February 23: District-wide Spelling Bee.

Thursday, February 25: Social Studies Benchmark.

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