January 30, 2009
Winter is here and with it come cold weather, grey skies, and the potential for some seasonal doldrums. But what’s going on outside doesn’t affect the fun and energy generated each day at Cliff Valley. Here are a few examples:
- Students from 5B and 4th grade working together to plant new trees on our campus and nature trail.
- Elementary Movie and Game Night – a Saturday night at school for students from different grade levels to play games, interact together, and watch a movie.
- Teachers and staff enthusiastically dressing up for Western Day to generate excitement about this year’s auction.
- Homecoming for our 5th grade graduates and their parents – a fun-filled evening for former students and families to come “home.”
- The World Music Ensemble along with the 5C students helped us recognize and celebrate Chinese New Year with a dragon dance, music, and a parade outside and through the building.
- Classes celebrating the 100th day of school in interesting ways, such as the 2nd graders’ list of 100 ways to show kindness to others, the Kindergarteners’ 100th day glasses, and the 1st graders' 100th day song.
- The Elementary Talent Show – participation has increased each year, requiring us to hold the event at the Greek Orthodox Church this year. If you’ve never been to this event, you’ve got to see it. Save the date – Friday, February 20th.
- CVPA coffees to warm you up and give you a chance to talk with other parents.
- Spirit Nights - fun social gatherings for both students and parents.
- And don’t forget Friday assemblies – a good time of school spirit and sharing every Friday morning, and everyone is always welcome to attend.
There’s always something fun and interesting going on in our community. I hope you are finding ways to be involved and participate as often as you are able. I want your children to have fun and enjoy school each and every day, and I want you to find your place in and satisfaction from being part of this community. If you have ideas or suggestions for ways we could offer more, different, or better opportunities, please let me know.
I hope you all are doing well. Please stop by, email, or call – I’d love to hear from you.
Michael
December 19, 2008
A common practice this time of year is to reflect on the year ending and look forward to the year ahead. 2008 was a good year at Cliff Valley: welcoming 52 new families to our community, expanding our student body to 257 students, developing new events like the Earth Day Festival, refining our practices in the classrooms and overall school operations. It’s been a good year of progress at Cliff Valley.
As I look ahead to 2009, I am excited about the strategic planning process and the direction the board of trustees is providing for the school. I look forward to a successful admissions season and to bringing more new families into the Cliff Valley community. The new 5th grade trip to Costa Rica, another graduation celebration for our 5th graders, and a fantastic summer of programs and fun are other exciting things coming our way in 2009. I am confident that our collective work and efforts will make this a memorable year at Cliff Valley.
Whatever your personal aspirations for 2009 might be, I hope you pursue them with diligence and happiness and that you find success. I wish you all a restful winter break and wonderful New Year.
Michael
