I hope this letter finds you and your families healthy and happy. Despite the demands imposed on all of us by the Corona Virus last year, I also hope that you enter the 2021-22 school calendar with a spirit of faith and optimism. I am extremely proud of how our Chaminade community responded to the many challenges brought on by COVID-19. Somehow, amongst all the changes, safety requirements, and technology glitches, our school managed to keep relevant teaching/learning continuing on a high level. Whether we were in distance or hybrid modes, Chaminade not only fulfilled the Characteristic of Marianist Education (CME) of providing an integral, quality education, we also managed to preserve our sense of connection and our Marianist Family Spirit
But now a new year awaits us! I am very much looking forward to welcoming all of our 6th graders, and other new students, to our Chatsworth Campus. It will be wonderful to get to know each of you and to watch each of you as you get involved in academics, service, sports, clubs, performing arts, and leadership. I want to observe each of you connecting in a way that is meaningful to you and that makes your Chaminade experience special.
I am also excited to reunite with all of our returning 7th and 8th graders. In many ways this year will feel new for all of you as well. The good news is that as of the writing of this letter we are expecting to invite our entire student body back to campus, when we begin school Wednesday, August 11. Although I’m sure we may still have some safety protocols to follow, just having our full community back together on campus will be a wonderful first step towards a return to normalcy. No matter how Chaminade is allowed to open the school year (distance, hybrid, or fully back on campus) know that we are ready and eager to work with you to make 2021-22 memorable in the best possible way.
Please take the time to look over the material in this newsletter. The contents are intended to help familiarize you with a variety of aspects of Chaminade life. I urge to access the links provided and begin considering how you are going to maximize your Eagle experience.
Enjoy the rest of your summer and feel free to reach out to me via email (mvalentine@chaminade.org), if I can help you in anyway.
Sincerely,
Mike Valentine Principal
In this issue:
• Back to School Info
• Schedules, Counseling and STAR
• Health Office Procedures
• Technology
• Uniforms, Booster and Spirit Wear Sales
• Campus Ministry
• Student Activities and House System News
• Cafeteria
• Athletics
• Performing Arts
• Chaminade Communications
• Parent Volunteer Opportunities
RETURNING STUDENTS
LOCKER SET-UP
Campus will be open for returning students for locker set-up at the following times:
Friday, August 6: 7:30am- 6:00pm
Saturday, August 7: 7:30am- 4:00pm
Sunday, August 8: 7:30am– 12:00pm
Monday, August 9: 7:30am– 12:00pm
Tuesday, August 10: 7:30am-8:20am and 12:30pm6:00pm
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
Wednesday, August 11 from 8:30am-3:00pm
First Full Day of Classes will be a Day 0. Students will go to each of their classes on this day. See class times to the right.
Daily Schedules*
O Day– First Day of School
A– 8:30am-9:08am
B- 9:13am- 9:51am
C- 9:56am- 10:34am
D- 10:39am- 11:17am
LUNCH- 11:17am- 12:08pm
E- 12:13pm- 12:51pm
F- 12:56pm- 1:34pm
G- 1:39pm- 2:17pm
H- 2:22pm- 3:00pm
Day 1 and Day 2 House Meeting/ Advisory
(Mondays and Wednesdays)
House Meeting/Advisory- 8:30am-8:50am
A/E- 8:56am-10:06am
B/F-10:12am- 11:22am
C/G- 11:28am-12:38pm
LUNCH- 12:38pm-1:25pm
D/H- 1:30pm-2:40pm
X Block- 2:45pm-3:00pm
Regular Day 1 and Day 2
A/E- 8:30am- 9:45am
B/F- 9:51am- 11:01am
C/G- 11:07am- 12:17pm
LUNCH- 12:17pm– 1:05pm
D/H- 1:10pm- 2:20pm
X Block- 2:26pm- 3:00pm
*Schedules are posted on the master calendar and at the top of each weekly CTW.
NEW STUDENTS
NEW FAMILY WELCOME EVENT
Monday, August 9, 4:30pm-6:30pm
For all new incoming 6th, 7th, & 8th grade students and parents, check-in begins at 4:00pm and program starts promptly at 4:30pm. More details to follow, pending health and safety guidelines.
NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION
Tuesday, August 10, 8:30am-12:00pm
NEW FAMILY INFORMATION
New families can access additional back to school resources on our New Family Information Webpage
Today will mark your first day as a Chaminade student! On this day, you will bring your tablet (fully charged!) inside of the tablet bag that you received at the New Family Welcome Event the night before. Students dress in full uniform.
What else will happen at the Orientation?
• Eagle Card pictures will be taken
• Teachers will introduce students to widely used programs on their tablet PC and run them through some basic understanding of their new educational tool
• WEB Leaders will introduce students to many aspects of Chaminade!
LOCKER SET-UP FOR NEW STUDENTS
New students will receive locker assignments and combinations during the New Family Welcome Event. Students may set up lockers on Tuesday, August 10 before school between 7:30am and 8:20am and after orientation from 12:30pm- 6:00pm on this day.
NEW FAMILY INFORMATION NIGHT: VIRTUAL EVENT
Thursday, August 19, 6:00pm-7:00pm (Link and more details to follow)
Join us for our Virtual New Family Information Night! At this event, you will learn how to support your child in how to:
• Upload Apostolic Works hours into Naviance
• Access school information and navigate Schoology, our learning management system
• Utilize the counseling service and get tips and strategies to help with a smooth middle school transition
• Navigate the athletic program regarding tryout processes, online registration for sports, and program philosophy
• Get involved in leadership opportunities and student activities, such as clubs and the House System
If you have any questions about the first days of school, please contact Annikki Lotta
Assistant Director of Admissions, at alotta@chaminade.org.
SCHOOL BREAKS
Christmas Break will begin with dismissal on Wednesday, December 15. Classes will resume on Tuesday, January 4. Easter break will begin with a noon dismissal on Thursday, April 14. Classes will resume on Monday, April 25.
IMMUNIZATIONS
As of July 1, 2019, students entering, advancing or transferring into 7th grade will need proof of; 1 dose of adolescent whooping cough booster, (called “Tdap”), and 2 doses of Varicella, (Chickenpox). Students entering 7th grade who do not provide proof of both immunizations will not be able to start school on August 11, 2021.
Under California law, vaccines required for school may no longer be excused due to personal beliefs, including religious beliefs.
TRANSPORTATION:
Bus Registration
This is just a reminder that bus registration is still available for a few more weeks. If you have not yet registered for the bus for the upcoming year, please be sure to send an email to transportation@chaminade.org to request the link to register. Registration closes July 26 so be sure to reserve your seat. If you have any questions, please contact Cassie Bedoya at cbedoya@chaminade.org.
BACK TO SCHOOL
Textbooks
Chaminade uses MBS Direct as the official online bookstore for purchasing or renting all course textbooks, including summer reading books. Information for ordering textbooks can be found by clicking this link. The MBS Online Bookstore will open on July 13. Most courses REQUIRE the one-year online digital textbook for use at school. In addition to the one-year online digital textbook, you may purchase OPTIONAL hard copies for those who want print versions at home. Please read the instructor's notes at the top of each course to see what is required for each course. Families must create an account before purchasing or renting textbooks. Families who created an account in May for Book Buyback should log in as an existing customer. Please purchase books prior to the first day of school and once you have received your child's schedule. See below for information about class schedules. MBS Direct guarantees free shipping on all orders over $99 ordered between July 13-August 10. If you have questions while creating or accessing your account, contact MBS Direct at (844) 603-9960. If you have questions regarding textbooks, contact Instructional Technology Specialist Mr. Anthony Ploesch at aploesch@chaminade.org or Vice Principal of Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology Mrs. Carolina Gunter at cgunter@chaminade.org
Class Schedules
An email from Chaminade News will notify you when student schedules are available on NetClassroom prior to July 15. Directions for accessing the schedule will be sent at this time as well. Please be advised that schedules cannot be changed to accommodate individual preferences. Changes to schedules will only be made in the case of an error or to balance class sizes. Please print a student schedule Monday, August 9th after 9:00am in order to assure its accuracy. If you have difficulty accessing NetClassroom, please contact the front office at (818) 363-8127.
Summer Reading & Supply Lists
In addition to textbooks, students will need school supplies and summer reading books. All students are required to read during the summer and upon returning in August, participate in learning activities that correspond to summer reading. You may purchase summer reading books through MBS Direct Online Bookstore along with course textbooks, your local independent bookstore, bookshop.org, or Amazon.
Summer Reading Information (All Grade Levels)
Supply list information for all grade levels can be found HERE.
SCHEDULE, COUNSELING, & STAR TESTS
Principal’s Council
Principal Mr. Michael Valentine
Assistant Principal
Mrs. Dorothy Kane
Assistant Principal Mrs. Carolina Allas Gunter
Deans of Students
Director Campus Ministry
Director of Admissions
Director of Athletics
Mr. Jason Kertz & Ms. Alicia Gonzalez
Mrs. Kate Beskid
Mrs. Mary Guerra
Mr. Walt Stewart
Instructional Tech Specialist..Mr. Anthony Ploesch
Director of Activities
Director of Counseling
Mrs. Annette Damien
Mrs. Heather Eaton
PARENT-STUDENT Handbook Updates
Visit Chaminade.org to access the complete handbook.
Updates will be posted July 2021.
COUNSELORS
Counselors are available as support to students and parents to assist with the adjustment to each school year as well as overall academics, social issues and family adjustments.
Students meet with counselors in small groups at the start of each school year and can also meet individually as needs arise. Counselors will be emailing each new family at the start of the school year to introduce themselves and to provide contact information.
Ms. Cheryl Lovejoy clovejoy@chaminade.org
Last Names A-C
Mrs. Sara Shenouda sshenouda@chaminade.org
Last names D-L
Mr. Jason Kertz jkertz@chaminade.org
Last names M-O
Ms. Heather Eaton heaton@chaminade.org
Last names P-Z
STAR TESTING
The Los Angeles Archdiocese administers STAR Assessments in reading and math at all K-8 Catholic schools during three test windows throughout the year. Each STAR Assessment is approximately 30 minutes long. The school uses standardized test data, along with other data (e.g. grades and observations of student work), to make curricular and instructional decisions that support student learning. As with any test, many factors can affect a student's scores. Therefore, it is important to remind students to do their best. After each assessment window, we will provide a Google form link in the Chaminade This Week (CTW) weekly newsletter for you to request your child's scores, which will be emailed to you. In June, parents will be mailed a comprehensive report of their student’s results on all three rounds of tests. English and math teachers will administer tests in class during the test windows listed below. If students are absent on the day teachers administer the tests, counselors will contact students for make-ups during X block within the testing window.
It is the parent’s obligation to inform the Health/Attendance office of an absence between 7:45am and 9:00am each day the student is absent. This is mandatory. (Emailing a teacher is NOT considered notifying the Health/Attendance office). Students who have been absent from school must have a note from a parent upon their return. Student’s absences due to illness lasting 5 or more consecutive days will need a doctor’s note of clearance to be admitted back to school. Any student who is absent 7 or more days in a semester will receive a letter from the Dean’s office and may incur a detention.
TARDIES
All students arriving late to school must check into Health/Attendance office with their school ID to sign in and receive a late slip. All tardies are unexcused unless a student brings in a note from a medical or dental office.
EARLY DISMISSALS
Students needing to leave school early must bring a note to the Health/ Attendance office before 8:00am to receive an EARLY-OUT slip, which is needed to leave a classroom. It is advised that parents not just “show-up” to pick up their children, but instead notify the Health/Attendance office as soon as possible to give time to find your student. Students leaving early will meet their parent in the Health/Attendance office to be signed out for the day. It is also important to notify the Health/Attendance office if parents leave the student in someone else’s care while they are away.
**Only those people who are on the student’s emergency contact list can pick up a student. Parents please make sure you are listed as your student’s emergency contacts as well as anyone you give permission to pick up your child. Additions to a student’s contact list can be made by contacting the Registrar’s office. If in an emergency, someone other than a parent needs to pick up a student, the attendance office will need the request in writing stating who is picking up and their contact number.
HEALTH OFFICE – Medication Policy
The Health Room does not dispense medication. All medication must be submitted in the original container with the student’s name clearly written on it. Medication sent to school in plastic bags, envelopes, etc., will not be accepted. Students may not carry any medication, inhaler, epi-pen, etc., unless authorized by the Dean’s office. Written authorization from a parent must accompany medication. Request for Medication to be taken During School available in the Health/Attendance office. This policy applies to “over-the counter” as well as prescription medications. Further information about Chaminade’s Health/Attendance Policy and Procedure can be found in the Parent/Student Handbook.
TECHNOLOGY:
SCHOOLOGY, CLEVER, & GOOGLE APPS FOR EDUCATION
At the new-student orientation in August, students will receive their tablet PCs and login credentials for the tablet, Schoology, Clever, and Google Apps for Education. Parents/guardians will be assigned their own unique login credentials for Schoology. Information for how to log into and navigate our digital platforms will be provided at orientation and virtual family information nights offered first semester. Continuing students and parents/guardians have their login credentials, but if you need help remembering or accessing those credentials, please email our Instructional Technology Specialist (ITS) Mr. Anthony Ploesch at aploesch@chaminade.org.
CLEVER
Clever is a single sign-on portal. This means that with just ONE click, students can quickly and easily access all their digital learning resources in ONE location. These digital resources include Schoology, Google Apps for Education, and Naviance. Additional tools for collaboration and creativity are also found within Clever. And eventually, once teachers guide students into accessing the digital textbooks you have purchased, students can access those textbooks here, too. New students will receive access to Clever given upon the start of school.
SCHOOLOGY
Chaminade uses Schoology LMS, a middle-school friendly platform that provides ONE place for students to access each class’s resources, assignments, online tests and quizzes, teacher feedback on assignments, individual assignment scores, and overall course grades. In addition, students and parents can see assignment due dates and tests for all classes on ONE calendar. Google Drive also integrates with Schoology. This means that instructors can assign Google Docs, Slides, Drawings, and Spreadsheets within Schoology, which does three very important things. First, the assignment automatically populates a student’s calendar so that students can access the assignment from the calendar and students and parents can also see when it is due. Second, the assignment is automatically shared with the student and populates a student’s Google Drive, which means the assignment can be accessed at any time by the student and teacher and there are no papers to misplace or lose. Finally, the assignment automatically populates a student’s gradebook so that students and parents can see the instructor’s feedback and assignment score as well as monitor whether and when the assignment was submitted. Students will be enrolled in Schoology courses in August prior to the first day of class.
GOOGLE APPS FOR EDUCATION
Each student has a Google account that is created by the school. Students have access to all Google Apps except Gmail because students have Outlook email. For safety and security purposes, a Chaminade Google education account allows us to restrict sharing, communication, and collaboration to Chaminade faculty, staff, and students only. Students have this account and unlimited storage for the duration of their Chaminade education.
SUMMER MATH IN ALEKS
Most students experience a ‘summer learning loss’ between June and August, we want to remind you that your child’s ALEKS account will be open and available over the summer. This year’s 6th and 7th grade students will have access to a transition course bridging to their next grade level. 8th graders will continue to have access to their current course. We encourage all students to regularly practice their skills so as to enter next school year well prepared for success.
SCHOOL UNIFORMS
ON-LINE BOOSTERS
Boosters merchandise, including school and spirit wear, is available through our online Boosters Store. We offer the option of picking up orders in person or mailing via USPS (with an additional shipping cost). It is recommended you make your purchase with adequate time and preparation to ensure your student has everything needed before the new school year commences. Please contact Linda Gaona at Lgaona@chaminade.org with any questions.
DENNIS UNIFORM
WELCOME TO DENNIS
We look forward to working with you this year! Since 1920, our family-owned company has provided top schools nationwide with high-quality uniforms, many of which are hand -sewn in our Portland, Oregon factory. If you need any help, our
National Customer Service Department is just a phone call away: (800) 854-6951
SHOP ONLINE
www.dennisuniform.com
Enter your school code: SH00CP
ORDER BY PHONE
National Customer Service (800) 854-6951 (M-F, 8:00am-5:00pm PST)
ORDER BY MAIL OR FAX
Fax: (877) 291-5480 135 SE Hawthorne Blvd. Portland, OR 97214
Order forms available online
SHOP IN-STORE
6459 De Soto Ave. Woodland Hills, CA 91367 (818) 703-7493
REGULAR STORE HOURS: Contact www.dennisuniform.com for store hours and extended summer hours.
Click here to download a onepage guide for Dennis Uniform.
USED UNIFORM SALES
July 20- 8:00am-12:00pm & 2:00pm-5:30pm July 21 8:00am-12:00pm Chatsworth Library Commons
DRESS CODE & SPIRIT DRESS
DRESS CODE UPDATES
The following items of dress code are the only acceptable uniform options that may be worn:
• Dennis Uniforms (pants/skirts/skorts/shorts/ shirts/PE shirts & shorts)
• Boosters (sweaters, sweatshirts, and sweatpants)
• Chaminade polo shirts and sweatshirts for Chaminade athletic teams or extracurricular activities are also permitted.
In regards to skirts and skorts, here is the breakdown of what students can wear by grade level:
• 6th & 7th grade girls: Navy skorts with logo
• 8th grade girls: Choice of navy skirt with logo, khaki skirts (no logo), and skorts with logo
Please refer to the Parent-Student Handbook for further updates to our uniform including shoes, appropriate outerwear, and hair.
SPIRIT SHIRTS- PRE-ORDER NOW
Share in our school pride and purchase an orange spirit shirt, available to all Chaminade students, grades 6-12.
Proceeds from spirit shirt orders directly benefit student activities all year.
Spirit Shirts can be worn for all spirit dress days and on all Friday early dismissal days throughout the year.
*Students who do not wish to purchase the shirt should be in full uniform on these days.
You may preorder your shirt NOW until July 20 using this link
Shirts will be for sale during welcome and orientation events for new students and in the activities office once school begins. Cash and checks payable to Chaminade will be accepted.
*NEW HOUSE SHIRTS*
House Shirts can be worn on house activity days such as Field Day, March Madness Basketball games, and House Picnics.
After the preorder deadline, sales will take place in the activities office beginning August 10.
You may preorder your shirt NOW until July 20 using this link ,
ALL SHIRTS ARE $18
Thank you for supporting student activities and our house system!
CAMPUS MINISTRY
Chaminade Middle School Campus Ministry sets a foundation for students to learn how to grow in the Catholic Marianist Tradition. Students receive guidance in their faith-formation experience through the collaborative work of the Religion Department and of the Office of Campus Ministry. Our goal is to provide opportunities that will help the members of the school community gain a deeper sense of self, to experience a love for God, and embrace the Marianist mission of bringing Jesus to the world through Mary by offering Eucharistic Liturgies, Sacrament of Reconciliation, Prayer Services, Retreats, RCIA, Apostolic Works, and Spiritual Formation.
The 6th grade retreat theme is I Am Imago Dei…I Am Pure Gift. This retreat will enable our students to understand that they have been created in the image of God (Imago Dei) and have been given certain gifts which are to be shared with the rest of the world. The purpose of this retreat is to prayerfully reflect on the students’ relationship with God and provide an opportunity for students to get to know each other. Activities will include large group sessions, small group discussions, prayer, reflection time, liturgy, and praise and worship.
Introducing Fr. Michael Chiuri
Our Chaminade family is excited to welcome our new chaplain, Fr. Michael Chiuri, SM, to our community. He will serve both campuses by attending retreats, presiding over our Masses, outreach to our students and Marianist educators, and continue the overall presence of our Marianist community. We are beyond blessed and excited for Fr. Michael to join our community and look forward to a partnership with him for many years to come. To learn more about him, please read his biography HERE.
The 7th grade year is a challenge, as students are faced with difficult choices relating to their faith, friendships, and development as the person. The goal of the retreat is to help students choose COURAGE; to stand up for what is right, treat others with respect, and be the people that God created us to be. The foundation scripture 1 Timothy 4:12, states, “Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for the believers in your speech, your conduct, your love, faith and purity”. The sessions will focus on Jesus’ example of courage, the courage we see in ourselves, the courage we see in others, the courage we can have built on our faith in God.
The 8th grade class will embark on a path to discover who they are, where they are going, and how Chaminade and their faith have shaped them. Using Psalm 105 as inspiration, “Your word is a lamp to guide me and light my path”, students will reflect on their personal journey of faith and how God guides them through their life experiences. Students will reflect on several elements that will guide them through this journey. Some of these elements include prayer, community building, forgiveness, and the ways young people are called to apply each area in their life journey.
APOSTOLIC WORKS
Blessed William Joseph Chaminade said, “We are all missionaries and we consider ourselves on a permanent mission” witnessing the Good News of Jesus Christ. We carry out this mission not only in the classroom, but equally in our Apostolic Works. The word Apostolic is derived from the root word Apostle, meaning “to be commissioned”. We continue the works of the Apostles by bringing the “good news to the poor and marginalized” as our missionary spirit leads us to give a direct service to them through various methods of outreach. The service projects to both the local and global community will provide our students with the opportunity to reflect upon their call to service through the utilization of their own gifts and talents. Campus Ministry has modified the apostolic work guidelines and requirements for the 21 -22 school year. Students will be asked to serve at non-profit organizations and complete a specific number of hours.
Apostolic Works Requirement
6th grade requires 10 hours
7th grade requires 15 hours
8th grade requires 20 hours
Summer Apostolic Works
For the 2021-2022 school year, we will be holding off on summer hours for students. We do encourage you to serve and help others during your vacation, however it will NOT count towards your requirement. We want to educate and inspire our students about service and feel it necessary to start fresh upon the new school year with our program.
Service Saturday
Get a jump start to your Apostolic Work hours by participating in our annual Fall Service Saturday on September 25. Signs up are first come first serve and the registration process will be detailed in the CTW. All students must be accompanied with an adult and will receive 3 hours of service for the event.
by May 9, 2022
STUDENT ACTIVITIES, THE HOUSE SYSTEM, & MENTOR
FAMILY GROUPS
The goal of our campus-wide activities program is provide opportunities for students to embrace leadership roles and develop positive character traits, explore their gifts and talents, and create lasting memories and friendships. Whether it be an all-student assembly or a specific club, there is something for everyone to enjoy. We offer more than 40 different clubs in the areas of leadership, special interest, and performing arts. Marianist Family Spirit is alive within our eight houses as part of our House System. Each student will be a part of a mixed-grade house working towards a common goal throughout the school year, to win the house cup! Students participate in friendly competitions, spirit assemblies, and a spring semester Field Day event.
For more information, visit our student activities webpage or contact Director of Student Activities, Mrs. Annette Damien at adamien@chaminade.org
House Meetings and Advisory Groups
The goal of our Marianist House System is to build community across our campus, between grade levels while allowing students to connect with faculty mentors. Houses meet to begin the week and receive campus communications each Monday morning. Advisory groups meet each Wednesday to participate in character building, life skills development and community building activities with members of their house and an assigned faculty mentor. House and advisory meetings are a required part of the school day and attendance will be taken.
Hey Chaminade! I’m
Emery Daly, the newly elected Student Body President for the upcoming school year. One of my goals for next year is to make sure that everyone feels included and involved. I’ll be sure to embrace Chaminade’s family spirit and welcoming atmosphere. You can expect tons of fun activities and rallies coming next year! This year was very challenging, but I know that together we will adapt and overcome all the difficulties. I can’t wait to see all your wonderful faces and meet new students and friends. Until we’re together again, I hope all of you have a wonderful and safe summer! Remember Chaminade, “It’s a bright world, possibilities are everywhere!”
What house am I in?
New students will receive a video link to discover their assigned house mid-July. Stay tuned for your house reveal!
CAFETERIA & EAGLE CARDS
Background
The Lopez Family, The Caterer, Inc., has been providing food services for Chaminade High School and Chaminade Middle School for over 30 years. We are a family run operation comprised of Sid, Sue, and Scott Lopez (executive chef), as well as a full kitchen staff at each location. Having raised five children of our own, we treat the students like our family, with respect and compassion every day. Our staff is an extension of our family and truly share our commitment to give the best possible food and service to your children.
The Caterer’s Mission Statement
We strive to prepare and promote healthy and delicious food that stimulates the eye as well as the palate. Our pledge is integrity, customer satisfaction, and a commitment to excellence. We deliver top quality service and high-quality food on every level with consistent professionalism and a “customer first” attitude.
Our School Lunch Program
The Caterer Inc. promotes lifelong healthy eating habits through fresh and nutritious meal preparation. We demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to the student body, faculty and staff that goes far beyond simply providing lunch services. Our efforts compliment a fine educational institution which stresses high academic standards and a genuine concern for the total well-being of its students.
Our meals are prepared in-house and fresh each day. We offer an extensive menu that includes a variety of food delicious choices on a daily basis, as well as a rotating Daily Special.
Chaminade and The Caterer, Inc. are excited to offer new meal service technology for our students and faculty! The new enhancements will improve the safety and efficiency of our meal service, with added convenience, flexibility, as well as nutritional and allergen information for our Chaminade families.
The cafeteria will institute a new “no touch” cashless point of sale system offering safe and convenient meal services for our students and faculty. Chaminade and The Caterer, Inc. are introducing a new food service system utilizing the online and mobile applications, MySchoolBucks and MealViewer. Please refer to the Chaminade.org website and access the Family Portal section which will direct you to “Schoolwide” and then “Lunches” for more information.
Download both Mobile Apps for iPhone or Android and create your free MySchoolBucks and MealViewer account using the school name and student ID.
Thank you and we look forward to serving you!
For more information, please visit www.TheCatererInc.Com
ATHLETICS
Tackle Football
Practices begin August 4. Information for tackle football will be available on the new Chaminade Middle School Athletics Web-site with links to the 2021 Tackle Football Calendar, Tackle Football General Information and the Tackle Football Release and Medical Information & Physical Exam Certification Form. Additional registration information will be provided mid-August. A Medical Physical Exam, dated no earlier than November 15, 2020 is required to play Tackle Football at Chaminade Middle School. Physical Exams are not required for any other sport at Chaminade Middle School.
Fall Sports and Year-Round Sports
All other Fall and Year-Round Sport Tryouts and Practices will not begin until after August 16. The Tryouts Schedule will be posted on the Middle School Athletics Web-page and the Middle School Athletic Calendar during the summer and will be updated as needed. Beginning this year, all students interested in playing a sport will need to submit a Middle School Athletics Consent form prior to the tryout. Students may not participate in tryouts without submission of this form. A link to the form will be posted on the Tryouts Schedule and will be available on the Middle School Athletics Web-page . There is no sign-up or registration required to attend a team tryout. Registration and information will be provided once teams have been selected. Tryouts for Winter Season Sports will take place in November and tryouts for Spring Season Sports will begin in late February. There are no pre-season practices or trainings for any sports.
6th GRADE CHEER
TRY-OUTS
August 16, 17, and 19 from 3:15pm to 5:00pm
Squad list is posted on August 20 at 5:00pm
Parent meeting and uniform fitting on August 24 at 5:00pm
If you have any questions, please feel free to email Coach Beskid at kbeskid@chaminade.org
It’s almost audition time for the Eagle Dance Team! All 6th, 7th or 8th grade boys or girls with Intermediate to Advanced level dance experience are welcome to audition for the team. We will be learning the routine on Tuesday, August 17 and Thursday, August 19 from 3:15pm-5:00pm in the Gym.
Auditions will take place on Friday, August 20 starting at 3:15pm. Audition packets will be available in Ms. Eaton’s office and in the fall CTW. Contact Coach Eaton at heaton@chaminade.org with any additional questions.
Join Band!
TOP REASONS TO BE IN
It’s Fun
Meet Life Long Friends
Leadership Experience
Feel Empowered
Express Creativity
To Play an Instrument... Makes You Smarter Teaches Discipline Relieves Stress It’s Fun!
Make your experience at Chaminade exceptional by joining band!
Learn:
How to play an instrument, Life Skills, Leadership, Organization, and Responsibility. Tuba, Trombone, Trumpet, Horn, Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Percussion (includes snare, bass bells, etc.)
“You'll learn life-skills including organization and time management. Band will challenge you to become a musician, a strong student, and a responsible individual. I accidentally joined band in the 6th grade. It was fun. It was awesome. It was a life-changing experience." -College Student, Music Composition Major
“As an incoming sixth grader, band was a really good way to meet people .... I made friends in band who I know will be my friends for life..” - Former student
How to sign up
call or email Dorothy Kane
818-363-8127 or dkane@chaminade.org
“Band taught my son discipline, self confidence, and an appreciation of music . He met people who teach and play music. Most of all it gave him the ability to read notes and to entertain! “ - Parent
“You instantly belong when you’re in band. It’s like having a big extended family.” -Student
QUESTIONS
Band Director Cynthia Snyder
Phone: 310-200-6756
csnyder@chaminade.org
Chaminade
CHAMINADE C-NOTES
This Concert Choir is open to all sixth, seventh and eighth grade boys and girls who wish to learn and perform all genres of Choral music. NO AUDITION NECESSARY. All singers do a “vocal check” with Mrs. Rohrs to assess correct vocal placement. All members will strengthen existing sight-reading skills and learn proper vocal technique, which will enable students to meet the demands of accelerated ensembles in high school. This ensemble rehearses on Monday and Wednesday after school in the music room from 3:154:30pm. Students are expected to maintain good attendance and have a positive attitude. C-Notes share their joy for singing and also serve as representatives of our school and its choir program.
C-Note performances include the Chaminade Open House, Christmas Concert in the Tutor Center at the High School campus, Community Concert at Mt. St. Mary’s College for the Carondelet Sisters, the Spring Concert and Graduation. This choir competes each year in an “adjudicated Choral Festival” and has consistently earned a “Gold” Ranking. This Spring, the C-Notes will attend a Vocal Soundtrack Session at Disneyland and perform in a “Music in the Parks” Choral Festival where they will compete again for a “Gold” ranking before a board of judges. In 2019, the C-Notes had the distinct honor of performing in the National Middle School Choral Festival at Carnegie Hall in time since 2011. Our singing tour to Vienna and Salzburg in April 2020 was cancelled due to the pandemic. During this past year of uncertainty, grief and isolation, the Notes found a way to bring hope and encouragement to others through their singing in their virtual Christmas and Spring concerts.
Students are given opportunities to audition for solos throughout the year and may choose to audition to be a select member of the following ensembles:
member a cappella group)
(Barbershop Boys Quartet)
(Barbershop Girls Quartet)
IMPORTANT DATES
First C-Note Rehearsal: Monday, August 16, 2021 3:15pm-4:30pm
Students involved in sports or other activities may still join. There are 3 days of tryouts for dance, cheer and sports. Students can attend 2 days of the tryouts and 1 day of CNotes.
Important Parent Meeting: Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021 at 4:45pm. C-Note procedures and trips will be discussed.
For more information, please visit www.chaminade.org/c -notes or e-mail Kathy Rohrs (krohrs@chaminade.org)
STAYING CONNECTED:
CHAMINADE COMMUNICATIONS
CTW Chaminade This Week
Our weekly newsletter, CTW (Chaminade This Week), will be emailed to the primary contact address providing at the time of enrollment. Students will also receive a copy of the CTW to their chaminet.org email address every Friday at 3:00pm. The CTW can also be accessed through www.chaminade.org under the “Family Portal.”
In the CTW, students and families can read Mr. Valentine’s weekly message, view schedule updates and obtain information regarding administrative announcements, academics, counseling, athletics, campus ministry, cafeteria, student activities, volunteering and uniform/Boosters.
Learn more about our student community through Mr. Valentine’s weekly S.O.A.R. (Student Outside Achievement Report). Have a story to share? Email mvalentine@chaminade.org, Re: SOAR and you may be featured in our next CTW.
SCHOOLOGY
Students and parents have access to our learning management system, Schoology. Students can access all class information, assignments, class calendars and club/house groups. Live gradebooks are also visible in Schoology.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Families are encouraged to setup a family Instagram account and follow our social media accounts to stay connected to campus events, meet members of our community and have a glimpse at life at Chaminade.
Take part in our social media competitions throughout the year by submitting content to nadesquad@chaminade.org.
Follow our students @nadesquad on Instagram
FAMILY PORTAL
Our Family Portal is located through the main page www.chaminade.org. Click here for the one-stop shop for all links to school info, grades, and more.
CHAMINADE NEWS: EMAIL BLASTS
Announcements from administration and regarding upcoming events will be sent to you from “Chaminade News.”
PARENT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
GENERAL SUPPORT
Help out on campus by working in the Drop Zone, Student Store, Library, Offices, or by participating on our hospitality committee.
VOLUNTEER MIXERS
Chaminade parents are invited to attend a Volunteer Mixer to learn about opportunities and ways to get involved. Parents may choose to attend either mixer.
Tuesday, August 17, 2021 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Location: West Hills CampusTutor Center Amphitheater
Thursday, August 19, 2021 8:30am – 10:30am
Location: Chatsworth CampusRose Garden Patio
FUNDRAISING & EVENTS
Help with the Eagle Parent Giving Program, Chaminade Gala & Auction, Holly Berry Luncheon, FatherDaughter Dance, Chama Mama Committee or Family Fun Night! Click HERE to register as a volunteer.
HOUSE PARENTS
Be a part our the Chaminade House family by assisting with rallies, competitions, service projects, decorating Christmas trees and adding spirit to our House Field Day and Picnics. You won’t want to miss this chance to get to know the students and parents. CLICK HERE to fill out an interest form.
CHAMA MAMAS
Welcome all Chama Mamas! If you are the mother or guardian of a Chaminade student, we invite you to join us for fun and friendship. The Chama Mama Committee plans events and activities throughout the school year to foster family spirit and provide opportunities for moms to connect. You will receive announcements about upcoming activities by email and in the “Chaminade This Week” communication. If you would like to join the Chama Mama Committee, please contact Tori McNees, Director of Development at (818) 360-0615 or tmcnees@chaminade.org
HOW TO BEGIN PARTICIPATING:
Volunteering is an excellent way to get involved on campus and meet other parents. Click HERE to register as a school volunteer or contact Linda Gaona, School Events and Volunteer Manager at lgaona@chaminade.org.
