Dec 05
Reading Opportunity

Online Access to Decodable Books 

The CBE has just launched an online library featuring decodable books. This library is free to use and can be accessed at: 

https://sites.google.com/educbe.ca/cbe-decodable-digital-library/home.  


Decodable books are a great tool for students who are still learning how to read. The digital library is best suited for students in Kindergarten - Grade Two. However, it is a useful tool for students in the older grades who need additional practice sounding out words. Decodable books encourage students to decode unknown words, rather than looking at the pictures and guessing. They are organized by letter-sound relationships. This allows students to practice the graphemes they have been working on in class.  


If you have any questions about how you can use decodable books at home, please reach out to your child’s teacher. Happy reading!  



Dec 04
Weekly Message - December 1

Important dates: 

Tuesday Dec 5 – Christy Fenton Author visit/ assembly. Formal Day. 

Thursday Dec 7 – School Council 6PM. In person. Light dinner provided. 

Friday Dec 8 – PD Day – Students are not in attendance 

Friday Dec 15 - Comfy Clothes Day (Jammies, Oodie, Onesie, comfy clothes) 

Friday Dec 22  - First full day of winter – Dress like a snowman, wear snowflakes, wear cold colours, wear your toque, wear your best indoor winter clothes 

Winter break Last day of classes is December 22, 2023. Classes resume Monday January 8, 2024.  

 

An update from School Council 

Thursday December 7 6-7PM face to face meeting 

The Chris Akkerman Parent Council meeting will take place on Thursday, December 7th in-person at the school's Learning Commons. All parents are welcome to attend, as discussions will be held around some spending initiatives for Chris Akkerman students for this school year. Also, pizza will be provided for dinner for all those who are in attendance 

 

Fundraising Initiative – UR Fundraising (Just like On-line Shopping) 

How Does This Work  

SHARE & SHOP  - Share the link above with family and friends so they can also support Chris Akkerman! 

Home Delivery Information 

Free home delivery on all orders over $95.00 

$10 delivery fee on orders under $95.00.  

 

Free Pick up information.  

Free pick up is available Wednesday to Friday 11:00am – 3:00pm.   

Our warehouse is located at Bay 7, 4420 – 75th Avenue SE 

 

SHOP AND SUPPORT LOCAL VENDORS 

  • We have over 100 products on our current store 

  • We  have more than 50 products under $50.00 

  • Smaller pack sizes available. 

  • Our Pricing is set to match local grocery store pricing 

  • Some Vendors include, Spolumbos, Good Fillin, Lloyd’s Jamaican Patties, Milk Jar Candles, Kingdom Coffee, Coco Brooks to name a few 

  • Meats come from Centennial Foods, which includes STERLING SILVER STEAKS.  

  • Bacon comes from SYSCO FOODS or GFS which is supplied by OLYMELAll center cut and restaurant quality. Much better than retail bacon. 

 

 

Office Reminders 

Please pay your current fees. All families in CAS have transportation, lunchroom, and in-line skating fees that should be paid. Also, specific in school and out of school fieldtrip fees for individual classes are also in your fees account. Kindly ensure your fees payments are up to date. Notices will be coming home to all families who are not up to date in their fee payments this month.  Waiver applications are available through your myCBE account. All fee payments can be made in your myCBE account.  

If you need to arrange pick-up for your child please call the school before 1PM Mon-Thurs and before 11 on Friday. Please call the school and leave a message on voice mail.  

#2 for the bussing line 

#1 for the attendance line 

We do not take these calls directly. We will re-direct families to call back and leave a message. Please ensure you leave your child’s first and last name and their teacher’s name. Without this information we are unable to log your request.   

  

McCarthy’s Holiday Hours 

The store will be closed on Saturday 2nd of December for our annual Inventory count and will re-open on Tuesday December 5th at 10am. Any online orders placed over the weekend will be shipped out on the 5th of December.  

  

Our store will also be closed for Christmas break, to allow our staff to rest and spend the holidays with their families. Our last business day for the year is December 22nd and we will re-open on Wednesday 3rd of January at 10am. Any orders placed online during that time will be shipped out the first week we are back. 

 

Extended Absence 

If Your family needs to be away for an extended length of time, please contact the school to book an appointment with Ms. Bauman to review and sign a form with youAppointments are available on Tuesdays/Thursdays from 8:00 am to 9:00 am.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inline Skating Update 

We have just finished our month-long Inline skating Residency at Chris at Chris Akkerman School. Students were provided with three lessons over the residency and made great progress! The School Council kindly subsidized the event. Here is a photo of the Alien In-line Skating Residency: 

 


Nov 27
Weekly Message - November 24

CAS Weekly Message Nov 24

 

Important Dates 

Friday Dec 1 – Opposite day 

Thrusday Dec 7 - School Council 6-7PM   Face to Face - Light dinner provided

Friday Dec 8 – PD Day – Students are not in attendance 

Friday Dec 15 - Comfy Clothes Day (Jammies, Oodie, Onesie, comfy clothes) 

Friday Dec 22  - First full day of winter – Dress like a snowman, wear snowflakes, wear cold colours, wear your toque, wear your best indoor winter clothes 

Winter break Last day of classes is December 22, 2023 and classes will resume Monday January 8, 2024. The school will be closed the entire duration of the break. 

 

 

Dear CAS Families, 

Thank you for taking the time Wednesday, Thursday, Friday to meet with your child's teacher and learn all about what is happening in the classroom here at CAS. Thank you for taking the time to check PowerSchool and ask clarifying questions in your interview. We know families are very, very busy and are always grateful when families make the time to partner with us in the education of your child. 

The last three days of this week, I had the opportunity to connect with all of our teachers at CAS and so many families. The message I hear over and over is how beautiful and amazing the parents are in our community. Over and over again I am reminded by our teachers of your generosity of heart, your caring, and your gratitude for all that is happening in CAS. There is no doubt we have the most amazing students in all of Calgary. We also know our teachers are second to none! Day in and day out we are reminded of how incredible our parents are. Thank you for being our partner in the education of our students. Thank you for engaging in the hard conversations, celebrating in the growth and achievement, and being dedicated to the learning of our students. We could never do this without parents. Thank you for continuing to show up and partner with us. We are forever grateful. Today I would like to ensure  each and every parent knows  we value you and your amazing contribution – thank you for joining us in this journey to educate Chris Akkerman Students! 

We would also like to make a huge shout out to the parents who assisted with the book fair. It was a quieter book fair than normal. But a success none the less. Thank you for helping out! You are appreciated! 

Proud Principal of Chris Akkerman School 

Dr. Bettesworth 

 

McCarthy's Holiday Hours 

The store will be closed on Saturday 2nd of December for our annual Inventory count and will re-open on Tuesday December 5th at 10am. Any online orders placed over the weekend will be shipped out on the 5th of December.  

  

Our store will also be closed for Christmas break, to allow our staff to rest and spend the holidays with their families. Our last business day for the year is December 22nd and we will re-open on Wednesday 3rd of January at 10am. Any orders placed online during that time will be shipped out the first week we are back. 

 

Reminders from the office

 We cannot stress enough how important it is when arranging to pick up your child from school that you do so before 1:00 pm daily, and 11:00 am Fridays. Please call the school, press 2 for bussing and leave a clear message including your child's name, grade, teacher, and which bus they take.  For attendance, please dial 1 and leave your message speaking slowly and clearly. We do not take these phone calls in person and will ask you to call back and leave a message.  

 

Extended Absence 

If Your family needs to be away for an extended length of time, please contact the school to book an appointment with Ms. Bauman to review and sign a form with you.  Appointments are available on Tuesdays/Thursdays from 8:00 am to 9:00 am and 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. ​


May 04
Fundraiser Opportunity - Chris Akkerman Parent Council

​Hi Families,


Please click the following link if you would like to be part of this fundraiser opportunity, hosted by parent council.

Front Page - Chris Akkerman Council Fundraiser (shopmyfundraising.com)



 



May 01
Weekly Message - May 1st to 5th

Weekly Message - CAS

 

Important Dates to Remember

Monday April 17 - June 12  Gymnastics in the gym during PE continues. Please ensure you student is dressed appropriately and safely to participate in this opportunity. 

Thursday May 4 -Literacy Celebration of Learning  5:30 – 7:30

Friday May 5 - PD Day No School for Students 

Monday May 8 – Friday May 12 – Teacher Appreciation Week (Parents – an additional communication if coming soon, along with txt reminders!) 

* the Parent Engagement Night is Postponed to Fall 2023 in conjunction with Sir. Wilfred Laurier School

Thursday May 25 - New TLC Student/ Kindergarten 2023 start – orientation 

Monday May 29 (Election Day) Schools are closed to students. CAS is a polling station.  

Friday June 9 - PD Day No School for Students 

Monday June 12 - 16  Lacrosse Residency 

 

School Spirit Day (Presented by the Grade 5 Leadership Students) 

Wednesday May 3 – Hats on for Mental Health – wear your very favourite hat, all day long! 

Friday May 12– Chris Akkerman Spirit day. Wear your CAS Cubs shirt or your casual uniform 

Friday May 26 – Comfy Clothes Day – wear what makes you comfortable. Maybe that is Jammies, PJs, your oodie, sweat pants and a sweatshirt, your favourite t-shirt, or even your school uniform. Be comfortable! 

 

Fun Lunch 

Tuesday May 16.   Orders need to be in by May 10. 

 

Celebration of Learning – Thursday May 4 

All families are welcome and encouraged to join us at Chris Akkerman School to visit your child's classroom and celebrate with your child all the amazing learning that is happening in their class. The focus of our evening will be literacy. Literacy is one of our School Development Plan Goals. Teachers and students have been working diligently to advance their ability in reading all year. Of course, they have been hard at work on their writing as well. There will be additional information sent out this week from your classroom teachers.  

School Fees 

If you have not yet paid for your lunch room fees or your transportation fees, it is very important that all families pay those fees as soon as possible. The CBE does send families to collections if they do not pay these fees. Kindly call Ms. Scherwitz in the office if you have any quetsions. You can use debit on the machine in the office. Of course, your credit card can pay for this on-line through your MYCBE account.  

Also, if your child it attending a fieldtrip at the end of this year, please pay for their fieldtrip as soon as possible. Your attention to this is very appreciated.  

 

Math Games 

The following games are our math coach's favourite games to play with students. Not only do they allow for an engaging way to practice basic facts, but they also foster thinking about the missing part or inverse operation. These games help students to think about their strategy in winning the game. There are two different version based on what skills you would like to practice with your child. Please note that you can use paperclips, cheerios, or coins instead of the transparent chips. 

Addition/Subtraction: 

·       Addition Tic Tac Toe Video 

·       Addition Tic Tac Toe Gameboard 

Multiplication/Division 

·       Multiplication Tic Tac Toe Video 

·       Multiplication Tic Tac Toe Multiplication Tic-Tac-Toe.pdf   

 

Understanding Social Media and Youth Well-Being 

The Calgary Board of Education is inviting all community members to join us for an inspiring evening of learning with experts in understanding social media. Social media has been around for decades and is commonly used by all. These digital platforms allow any user to create or share content in forms of posts, photos, videos, and connection. Teenagers need support and education to develop the skills to manage their social media use. This session will explore social media use among youth and tools to help your child learn to use social media platforms in a health and responsible way.   

On May 2, the CBE's Well-Being team will host a free online session where parents will be able to join and learn from experts in the field of health promotion , ask questions and receive follow-up materials.   

You are invited to join us at the virtual session from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  

Click HERE on Tuesday, May 2 at 6:30 p.m. to join the session  

Understanding Social Media 

Child and Youth Well-Being Series for Families and Caregivers  
Tuesday, May 2, 2023 
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

CBE educators believe that parents and caregivers can inspire their kids to make healthy lifestyle choices and increase protective factors — in order to do so, they need the right tools and information. Since our understanding of student health and well-being is evolving, it is important for parents to stay up-to-date on the same information so everyone is supporting student success.  
 
This session is offered at no-cost to all Calgary Board of Education employees, families, and community members.   

The intention of this session is to advance student well-being by raising family and caregiver's understanding of a variety of health-related topics. You are a key partner in your child's education and student well-being is critically linked to student achievement.  

Thank you for your time and consideration to join us. 

 

Claim your free Stampeders Tickets: 

Each CAS student is invited to claim two free tickets for the Calgary Stampeders game against Edmonton on May 22, 2023.  Here is a link to the event registration: 

www.StampedersGroups.com/May22Schools 

Gymnastics Unit in Physical Education 

Gymnastics continues in the gym this week! During this unit, the following safety expectations must be followed by all to reduce injuries and accidents: 

·       If students have long hair, it should be tied back 

·       No jewelry should be worn, especially not earrings, necklaces and jewelry that can be caught on equipment. 

·       Students will need to be in bare feet when on the mats and equipment. It is not recommended that tights or leggings be worn. Students will be asked to remove socks, tights, leggings. If tunics or skirts are worn, students are encouraged to wear navy or black shorts under their tunic or skirt.    

·       Some teachers are allowing their students to wear pants and their Chris Akkerman Cub shirt on PE days. Gymnastics does not mean students should be out of uniform.  

​​


Apr 24
Week of April 24th to 28th

CAS Weekly Message - April 23

 

Important Dates to Remember

Monday April 17 - June 12  Gymnastics in the gym during PE continues. Please ensure you student is dressed appropriately and safely to participate in this opportunity. 

Thursday April 27 - School Council  - All families are welcome to attend 

Friday April 28 - Virtues Assembly.  Please dress in your formal uniform 

Thursday May 4 -Literacy Celebration of Learning  5:30 – 7:00 

Friday May 5 - PD Day No School for Students 

Thursday May 18 - Parent Engagement Evening hosted by CAS School Council 

Thursday May 25 - New TLC Student/ Kindergarten 2023 start – orientation 

Monday May 29 (Election Day) Schools are closed to students. CAS is a polling station.  

Friday June 9 - PD Day No School for Students 

Monday June 12 - 16  Lacrosse Residency 

 

News from our Grade 5 Leadership Students

Wednesday May 3 – Hats on for Mental Health – wear your very favourite hat, all day long! 

Friday May 12– Chris Akkerman Spirit day. Wear your CAS Cubs shirt or your casual uniform 

Friday May 26 – Comfy Clothes Day – wear what makes you comfortable. Maybe that is Jammies, PJs, your "oodie", sweat pants and a sweatshirt, your favourite t-shirt, or even your school uniform. Be comfortable! 

The CAS Grade 5 School Leadership Students have been diligently leading their peers in tidying up our outdoor fields and playgrounds. This is even more notable this week as we celebrate Earth Day. Their contribution to the environment and to their school is impressive. Thank you to all students who saw them outside at lunch recess and assisted in their efforts. Together all of us can have a positive impact on our environment and also contribute to the ongoing effort to beautify our school.  

 

Fun Lunch Dates 

Tuesday May 16.   Orders need to be in by May 10. 

 

Staffing updates and changes 

Welcome  Ms. Teneycke. Ms. Teneycke will be our music teacher until the end of the year.   

Welcome back Ms. Olsen. Ms. Olsen will be in Ms. Vonka's room until she returns in early May.  

Welcome Ms. Vercleyen. Ms. Vercleyen will be joining Ms Boersen in grade 2 until further notice. We are glad Ms. Vercleyen is able to be with our Grade 2s while Ms Sener is on leave.  

Welcome Ms. Huang. Ms. Huang will be in Mr. Peniuk class until the end of the school year.   

Welcome Ms. Patty Newman (Beginning May 1). Ms. Newman will be assisting Dr. Bettesworth over the next few weeks as she cares for her ailing father. 

We are so pleased to have such amazing educators able to join our team and work with our incredible students and families. Please extend a warm welcome to our newest team members.  

 

Grade 4 and 5 Students in the Portables 

The CBE  started some minor repair work to the middle of the compound closest to the portables. We had hoped the work would be completed in a week, however, this doesn't seem to be the case. The entrance with steps at the front of the portables is temporarily blocked off. Also, the heat to the portables will be diverted to space heaters for the next few days as the repair work is completed. If your child is in the portables, please ensure they bring their cardigan with them and that they dress warmly as it might be cool in the portables. The weather this week is going to be a bit cool, please dress warmly or bring an extra sweater, just in case.  

 

Gymnastics Unit in Physical Education 

Gymnastics continues! During this unit, the following safety expectations must be followed by all to reduce injuries and accidents: 

·       If students have long hair, it should be tied back 

·       No jewelry should be worn, especially not earrings, necklaces and jewelry that can be caught on equipment. 

·       Students will need to be in bare feet when on the mats and equipment. It is not recommended that tights or leggings be worn. Students will be asked to remove socks, tights, leggings. If tunics or skirts are worn, students are encouraged to wear navy or black shorts under their tunic or skirt.    

Ask your student about our new water bottle filling station! 

Thank-you school council! We now have three incredible water filling stations in our school. Our students and staff love them!  It is a great addition to our school.   If you want to have impact in our school and with our students, please consider joining School Council at the end of the month. You will also be part of the decision making on great initiatives such as this.  

 

Claim your FREE Stampeders Tickets 

Each CAS student is invited to claim two free tickets for the Calgary Stampeders game against Edmonton on May 22, 2023.  Here is a link to the event registration: 

www.StampedersGroups.com/May22Schools 

​​


Apr 17
Weekly Message April 17th

Important Dates to Remember: 

Monday April 17 - June 12  Gymnastics in the gym during PE 

Thursday April 27 - School Council  - All families are welcome to attend 

Friday April 28 - Virtues AssemblyPlease dress in your formal uniform 

Thursday May 4 -Literacy Celebration of Learning  5:30 – 7:30 

Friday May 5 - PD Day No School for Students 

Thursday May 18 - Parent Engagement Evening hosted by CAS School Council 

Thursday May 25 - New TLC Student/ Kindergarten 2023 start – orientation 

Monday May 29 (Election Day) Schools are closed to students. CAS is a polling station.  

Friday June 9 - PD Day No School for Students 

Monday June 12 - 16  Lacrosse Residency 

 

School Spirit Day (Presented by the Grade 5 Leadership Students) 

Wednesday May 3 – Hats on for Mental Health – wear your very favourite hat, all day long! 

Fun Lunch Dates 

Monday April 17.    Orders have been placed. 

Tuesday May 16.   Orders need to be in by May 10. 

 

Staffing updates and changes 

Welcome  Ms. Teneycke. Ms. Teneycke will be our music teacher until the end of the year  

Welcome back Ms. Olsen. Ms. Olsen will be in Ms. Vonka’s room until she returns in early May.  

Welcome Ms. Vercleyen. Ms. Vercleyen will be joining Ms Boersen in grade 2 until further notice. We are glad Ms. Vercleyen is able to be with our Grade 2s while Ms Sener is on leave.  

Welcome Ms. Huang. Ms. Huang will be in Mr. Peniuk class until the end of the school year  

We are so pleased to have such amazing educators able to join our team and work with our incredible students and families. Please extend a warm welcome to our newest team members.  

 

Grade 4 and 5 Students in the Portables 

The CBE will be starting some minor repair work to the middle of the compound closest to the portables. The entrance with steps at the front of the portables will be temporarily blocked off. Also, the heat to the portables will be diverted to space heaters for the next few days as the repair work is completed. If your child is in the portables, please ensure they bring their cardigan with them and that they dress warmly as it might be cool in the portables. The weather this week is going to be a bit cool, please dress warmly or bring an extra sweater, just in case.  

 

Gymnastics Unit in Physical Education 

We start gymnastics on Monday...tomorrow! During this unit, the following safety expectations must be followed by all to reduce injuries and accidents: 

  • If students have long hair, it should be tied back 

  • No jewelry should be worn, especially not earrings, necklaces and jewelry that can be caught on equipment. 

  • Students will need to be in bare feet when on the mats and equipment. It is not recommended that tights or leggings be worn. Students will be asked to remove socks, tights, leggings. If tunics or skirts are worn, students are encouraged to wear navy or black shorts under their tunic or skirt.    

Ask your student about our new water bottle filling station! 

Thank-you school council! We now have three incredible water filling stations in our school. Our students and staff love themIt is a great addition to our school.   If you want to have impact in our school and with our students, please consider joining School Council at the end of the month. You will also be part of the decision making on great initiatives such as this.  

 

Claim your free Stampeders Tickets: 

 

Each student is invited to claim two free tickets for the Calgary Stampeders game against Edmonton on May 22, 2023. Here is a link to the event registration: 


Apr 11
Weekly Message - April 9th

CAS April 9 Weekly Message

 

Important Dates to Remember: 

Monday April 10 - No School for students. 

Monday April 17 - June 12 Gymnastics in the gym during PE 

Thursday April 27 - School Council - All families are welcome to attend 

Friday April 28 - Virtues Assembly. Please dress in your formal uniform 

Thursday May 4 -Literacy Celebration of Learning 5:30 – 7:30 

Friday May 5 - PD Day No School for Students 

Thursday May 18 - Parent Engagement Evening hosted by CAS School Council 

Thursday May 25 - New TLC Student/ Kindergarten 2023 start – orientation 

Monday May 29 (Election Day) Schools are closed to students. CAS is a polling station.  

Friday June 9 - PD Day No School for Students 

Monday June 12 - 16 Lacrosse Residency 

 

School Spirit Day (Presented by the Grade 5 Leadership Students) 

Friday April 14 - School Spirit Day. Dress Casual. Wear your Chris Akkerman Cub T-shirt. Wear school colours, wear your casual uniform.  

 

Fun Lunch Dates 

Monday April 17. Orders need to be in by April 12 

Tuesday May 16. Orders need to be in by May 10. 

 

Staffing updates and changes 

Ms. Luft – has been an amazing lunch supervisor at CAS for 5 years. She will be joining Sir Wilfred Laurier in their main office in just a few weeks. We know our students at Sir Wilf will welcome her. We are sad to see her go. All the best in your new position! 

Ms. Costinak – is on leave until the end of the school year and will be returning to CAS in September. Ms Teneycke will be our music teacher until the end of the year.  

Ms Vonka - is currently away tending to a family emergency. She will be returning in mid May. Our thoughts, prayers and very best wishes are with Ms Vonka. 

Mr. Peniuk – is on leave until the end of the school year. He will be returning in September. We are currently in the process of finding a substitute teacher to fill his spot until June. 

 

Calgary Stampeders – teaching PE at Chris Akkerman School 

This past week, there were several classes that participated in PE classes with Calgary Stampeders. These larger-than-life professional athletes demonstrated many football skills and drills and helped to introduce Canadian Football to our students. Some students even won prizes! It was a great opportunity for our students to meet some professional athletes and learn from some of the very best!   As part of the Calgary Stampeders promotion at our school, each student can use the following link to get Two free tickets to the May 22nd Stampeders game!

 

For your free Stampeders tickets, click the link:

www.StampedersGroups.com/May22Schools

 

 

Ramadan 

If your child is observing Ramadan by fasting, kindly reach out to your classroom teacher and let them know. It is always helpful to understand the family expectations placed on the students. Each family is unique and we would like to best support our students and families during this important time. We are able to do this by knowing what are parent expectations. Kindly either write a note in the agenda or send your teacher a quick e-mail to share your expectations for your child. We will try our very best to support your wishes. Thank you for continuing to be our partners in education 

 

Gymnastics Unit in Physical Education 

During this unit, the following safety expectations must be followed by all to reduce injuries and accidents: 

·       If students have long hair, it should be tied back 

·       No jewelry should be worn, especially not earrings, necklaces and jewelry that can be caught on equipment. 

·       Students will need to be in bare feet when on the mats and equipment. It is not recommended that tights or leggings be worn. Students will be asked to remove socks, tights, leggings. If tunics or skirts are worn, students are encouraged to wear navy or black shorts under their tunic or skirt.  

Parking Authority and Police Presence at CAS 

As parents saw this week, we had many Calgary Police Officers checking on our safety. The police were joined by the Calgary Parking Authority. They reminded us that it is illegal to make a “U turn" in front of the school, even at the intersection in the front. They also asked us to remind parents that the speed limit outside of our school is 30 KM/hour. Finally, they were disappointed to see so much jay walking. We have a wonderful, well marked cross-walk and we are hopeful all of our students and their caregiver will use it every day. Thank you for taking your time on the roads outside our school, remaining outside of our staff parking lot, and being kind and respectful to all who are using the roads around the school.  ​


Mar 13
Weekly Message March 13

Weekly Message - March 13

 

Important Dates to Remember: 

Spring Forward - we moved forward by one hour. Don't be late for school tomorrow!

March 25 – April 2   Spring Break – School is Closed 

Grade 4 families – your assurance survey closes this Friday. Please fill out your Assurance Survey from the Alberta Government.  

 

School Spirit Day (Presented by the Grade 5 Leadership Students) 

March 17 – St. Patrick's day. Wear green, wear what makes you feel lucky.  

March 24 – Twin and triplet day. Dress the same as a friend or a group of friends, wear your hair the same as a friend or group of friends, wear your uniform – just like all of your school friends! 

 

 

Dear families, 

Thursday was a beautiful example of our amazing school culture at Chris Akkerman School. We have gone for so many years without welcoming families into schools that these opportunities continue to fill my heart and overwhelm my sense of joy and pride for our families, our students and our education team. Thank you for participating in your child’s student-led conference! It is beautiful to see our students take pride and leardership in their learning as they show their parents what they have been learning and why this learning is important. When a student is able to share what they are working on, what they have done well and what their next right step in learning is, we know we have all succeeded in touching the heart and mind of a young learner. Thank you for taking the time to listen to your child and allow them to direct you through their learning experiences. Thank you for your generous praise and wise interactions with your learner. Thank you for providing your child with feedback and for making this process a great learning opportunity for our students. Parents, you truly are our partners in educating our students. When you participate and take up the work, as you did on Thursday, everyone in our community benefits. Thank you for all you have done to make Student Led Conferences so successful! 

Dr. Bettesworth 

 

Education Matters 

If you wish to make a donation directly to Chris AKkerman School you may do so. THis is the link to make cash donations to the school. These donations are always greatfully accepted and will go directly to the school and benefit all students. Thank you for your kind generosity. 

Education Matters Donation 

Or copy and past this into your browser: https://www.educationmatters.ca/campaign/donate-to-a-specific-cbe-school/ 

 

Parent Alert 

We sadly need to update and request assistance in many areas that are not a typical part of my weekly message. I apologize in advance as this next section does not apply to all of our community. Please read and assist us in making our community a better place for everyone. Our goal, always: a safe, caring, welocming and respectful place for all! 

Traffic – the traffic outside of the school can be very dangerous at times. I worry that a child is going to be hit by a car every day. I worry that my team of educators will be hit by a parent in a hurry or not following traffic rules and city by laws.  

Please think of the safety of our students and the safety of our educational team at CAS. When you are driving around the school, kindly drive slowly. Please leave extra time to get to where you need to be. Please follow traffic law and city by-laws. Please be kind, respectful and safe.  

I never want to write a note about injuries, but I fear, this is coming soon given the way parent drivers are around the school. Please, kindly drive safe and slow. 

Bathroom Behaviours – we are certain the behaviours in our bathrooms are not at all like what is expected or tolerated in the bathrooms in your homes. We do need your help to assist us in teaching our students respectful bathroom behaviours. Lately, the troubles have been more focused on the boys bathroom, however, from time to time, all of our students need reminders. We are kind, respectful, and caring in our bathrooms. This means we don’t stand on toilet seats, look over or under stalls, enter a stall that already has one person in it. Paper is used to dry our hands and then it is put in the recycle bin. Paper is never thrown on the ceiling or walls. Toilet paper is used on our bottoms and then put directly into the toilet where it is then flushed. Personal items are never attempted to be flushed down the toilet nor are personal items put into the toilet as a prank. We never bang of stall doors, nor do we tease those who are in a stall looking after their business. We are hopeful our parents, as our partners in educating our students, are able to speak to their children about healthy and safe bathroom behaviorus so we can all use the facilities peacefully and safely. 

Virtues – the virtue of honesty is one I need to discuss with all families after our bookfair week. While our bookfair was a great success and it put books into the hands of many of our children. The bookfair also succeeded in allowing some students an opportunity to put tiny treasures in to pockets and bring them home. It also provided an opportunity for students to seek out the treasures of others and claim them as their own. If you child happens to have a new eraser, or a pen or bookmark or a tiny treasure that you didn’t purchase for them, it is quite likely it came from the bookfair or from a classmate who spent their own money on the treasure. If you find thing that do not belong to your child, kindly send them back to school and the teacher will sort out next steps. This should be looked at as a learning opportunity for all.  

We have learned and have decided that our future book fairs will not include the tiny treasures such as erasers, book marks, pencils and tiny trinkets. This is simply too enticing for young children. The loss this year at our spring book fair was simply too much and the temptation for our young learners too much.  

Toys and treasures at school – please do not allow your child to bring toys and cards etc to school. This includes Pokemon cards, cars, sports cards, and toys. If students insist on bringing toys to school, the teacher we confiscate them and they will need to be picked up by a parent. It is distracting to have at school and from time to time these treasures get lost. Please don’t send these items to school. When a teacher makes a specific request for items to be brought to school for an educational purpose, then this is managed by the teacher. Otherwise, kindly leave your toys at home.  

 

Chris Akkerman School Engagement Opportunity 

Many, many families participated in this great opportunity for feedback at our Student Led Conference - thank you! If you haven’t yet shared your feedback, please provide us with feedback on the Chris Akkerman Budget, Fees, and School Council.  There are about 8 questions on this survey. It shouldn't take longer than about 5 minutes to complete.  We are eager to hear what fieldtrip and residency opportunities families would like their child to participate in. We are also eager to hear what fees for fiend trips and activities should be set for next year.  We look forward to your feedback. 

The survey is currently open, it will close on March 15. 

***This is available in many languages. Please select the language that works for you in the top corner. Please forgive any language errors as the translation piece is not perfect.  

Engagement Survey 

 

Alberta Education Assurance Survey  

Grade 4 families, each year Alberta Education conducts a survey and seeks your feedback. The Alberta Education Assurance Survey is now open. It will close later in March. Alberta Education uses the Assurance Survey as a way for school authorities to measure their success and assess their progress towards meeting their learning goals. Parents / Legal Guardians of children in grade 4 will receive their survey in the mail.   You are encouraged to complete the survey online. Students and all teachers will complete their surveys online at school. Your voice matters. Your participation in the survey helps provide important information on the quality of education your child is receiving. Alberta Education and Calgary Board of Education thank you for returning the parent Assurance Survey promptly. If you have questions or need a link to fill in the survey, please contact Ms Bauman at djbauman@cbe.ab.ca 



Mar 07
Weekly Message March 6

CAS Weekly Message March 5

 

Important Dates to Remember

March 1 – March 8 – On-line booking for Student Led Conferences Opened 6PM March 1 and closes at noon on March 8. Book through your mycbe account. 

March 6 – 9  Scholastic Book Fair  

March 9 – Student Led Conference (Registration to open March 1 6PM) 

March 9 – School Council (Learning Commons) 7PM 

March 10 – Professional Development Day (No school for students) 

March 25 – April 2   Spring Break – School is Closed 

 

School Spirit Day (Presented by the Grade 5 Leadership Students) 

March 3 – Casual Friday  (Wear your Chris Akkerman Cubs T-Shirt, Wear School colours, Wear your uniform) 

March 17 – St. Patrick's day. Wear green, wear what makes you feel lucky.  

March 24 – Twin and triplet day. Dress the same as a friend or a group of friends, wear your hair the same as a friend or group of friends, wear your uniform – just like all of your school friends! 

 

Dear Chris Akkerman Families 

Our French Festival, lead by Mme. Fontanne was a great success. Thank you Mme. Fontanne! Students participated in collaborative and cultural games in the gym. Ask them about the game with the ropes and ball, or about the chickens and eggs. Outside students were treated to “caban a sucre" maple syrup on a stick. While outside they also played Acadian games such as Tug-O-War, Sack Races, and a unique relay where they tied a sash around their waist and pulled a small log a short distance. Ask your child how the maple sugar treat tasted or how they made the treat. You might also want to ask them about the musical experience they had with Mme. Costinak, they played an instrument you could easily find in your kitchen. Again, another great cultural opportunity. The special events outside, in the gym, and in the music room were supplemented by some great classroom based activities for each grade as well. Ask your child about the beards.  

All students participated in the French festival, there was energy, enthusiasm and plenty of laughter as all of our community was given the opportunity to learn and participate in some great cultural events. Great fun and amazing learning was had by all. A huge should out to the incredible volunteers who assisted us, Mme. Fontanne and our first class CAS team who helped lead all of the fun French learning activities.  

Dr. Bettesworth 

Principal 

 

 

We need parent volunteers!  

Thank you to all of the parents who came out to assist with the French Festival – you helped to make the day fantastic! 

Scholastic Book Fair –  March 6-10 We need parents to assist with this fundraising event. Several parents have signed up, we still need more help.  

We need a Book Fair Coordinator.  We can help you learn what needs to be done. A Book Fair Coordinator helps with set up, take down, advertising the event, organizing volunteers, collecting and counting all cash transactions.   

Parent Volunteers – We need parents to cover the following shifts at minimum 

Wednesday  7:30 – 2:30   (any amount of hours during this time is appreciated – police clearance required) 

Thursday  7:30 – 11:30 (any amount of hours during this time is appreciated – police clearance required) 

Thursday 2:00 – 3:45   (no police clearance is needed to assist with this time) 

Thursday  4:45 – 8:00   (no police clearance is needed to assist with this time) 

Friday  8:00 – 12:00  Take down and clean up (No police clearance is required to assist this date) 

 

 

Student Led Conferences 

On March 9 all parents are welcome to come with their child to experience a Student Led Conference. It is essential that your child is present for the conference.  Using your mycbe account, please sign-up for a 25-minute time slot. Sign-up for conferences began on March 1 at 6pm and will end on March 8 at noon.  

Kindergarten times slots on March 9:  2:00, 2:30, 3:00, 5:00, 5:30, 6:00, 6:30, 7:00 

Gr 1-5 time slots on March 9:  3:00, 5:00, 5:30, 6:00, 6:30, 7:00 

Kindergarten classes will have additional time slots to accommodate all of the kindergarten learners. Some kindergarten conference times will be during class time, while others will be later in the day. Thursday Kinders will be participating in special learning opportunities with our Music and French teachers while their classes are open for Student Led Conferences. 

Gr 1 – 5 families will have an opportunity to attend a conference immediately following student dismissal on Thursday or during the early evening on Thursday March 9. It will be important for all families to arrive on time for their conference as conference times will need to begin and end on time to accommodate all CAS families.  

 Children are preparing with their teachers  to share their current and most recent learning and next steps in learning in math, reading, and writing.  Many classrooms will also have health, science, social studies, and well bing activities available for your children to share with you. The music room will be open for your child to share what has been happening in music. French will be shared within some classes and in the Learning Commons for other classes.  

Before you attend Student Led Conferences, please ensure you have reviewed your child's report card on line. This is a great opportunity to reflect on the current learning discussed and shared in the report card, their next steps and best ways to support your student learner. It is also hoped you will see many curricular areas, not written about in the report card but where indicators of achievement were shared. If a picture is worth 1000 words, imagine what an experience is worth. We encourage all families to take this time to examine their child's work and how it relates to what was shared in the report card.  We encourage you to find their strengths and their personal areas of growth and celebrate this with your child.   

Parents, during the conference, you will be asked to provide your child with feedback that will include both celebrations of what your child has achieved and your greatest hopes for the remainder of the school year. 

Student Led Conferences are a wonderful opportunity for you to connect with your child about their learning. Please allow your child to take the lead and share with you. During Student Led Conferences there will be approximately 5-7 other families in your child's designated space also participating in this learning and celebratory opportunity.  This is the time to celebrate and acknowledge the hard work your child has done to date. This is not the time to conference with the teacher. If you have specific questions for the classroom teacher, please make an appointment with them for a telephone call, face to face meeting, or an on-line TEAMs meeting to discuss your child's learning.  Due to privacy, Student Led Conferences are not the time for specific discussions with your child's teacher.  Thank you for your understanding.  

Please note – the school office will be open to pay fees and begin your police clearance processes.  

The gym will be home to the Scholastic Book Fair – if we are able to secure enough parent volunteers. 

School Council will host a meeting in the Learning Commons beginning at 7PM 

 

Chris Akkerman School Engagement Opportunity 

Please provide us with feedback on the Chris Akkerman Budget, Fees,  and School Council.  There are about 8 questions on this survey. It shouldn't take longer than about 5 minutes to complete.  We are eager to hear what fieldtrip and residency opportunities families would like their child to participate in. We are also eager to hear what fees for fiend trips and activities should be set for next year.  We look forward to your feedback. 

The survey is currently open, it will close on March 15. 

***This is available in many languages. Please select the language that works for you in the top corner. Please forgive any language errors as the translation piece is not perfect.  

CAS School Engagement

http://chrisakkerman.cbedialogue.com/en/projects/chris-akkerman-planning-engagement-2022-2023/engagements/chris-akkerman-school-planning-survey-2023-elementary    (please use the link above or copy and paste this into your browser)

 

Alberta Education Assurance Survey  

Grade 4 families, each year Alberta Education conducts a survey and seeks your feedback. The Alberta Education Assurance Survey is now open. It will close later in March. Alberta Education uses the Assurance Survey as a way for school authorities to measure their success and assess their progress towards meeting their learning goals. Parents / Legal Guardians of children in grade 4 will receive their survey in the mail.   You are encouraged to complete the survey online. Students and all teachers will complete their surveys online at school. Your voice matters. Your participation in the survey helps provide important information on the quality of education your child is receiving. Alberta Education and Calgary Board of Education thank you for returning the parent Assurance Survey promptly. If you have questions or need a link to fill in the survey, please contact Ms Bauman at djbauman@cbe.ab.ca ​


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