Classical Academy Middle School
If your child will be absent from school for any reason, please send an email to camsattendance@classicalacademy.com to let us know. If your child misses any schoolwork due to an absence, please do not hesitate to contact your cohort teacher. They will be more than happy to provide you with the necessary materials and support to help your child catch up.
Monday, November 6th - Office Hours (9:00am-10:30am)
Thursday, November 9th - Thursday, November 16th - East Coast Trip
Friday, November 10th - Veterans Day Holiday No School
Monday, November 13th - Office Hours (9:00am-10:30am)
Friday, November 17th - Girls Soccer, Boys Basketball @San Pasqual (1:30pm)
Friday, November 17th - Unit 2 Conference (Optional/By invitation only)
Monday, November 20th - Friday, November 24th - Thanksgiving Break No School
Monday, November 27th - Unit 2 Conference (Optional/By invitation only)
Friday, December 1st - Girls Soccer, Boys Basketball @Calvin Christian (1:00pm)
Monday, December 4th - Office Hours (9:00am-10:30am)
Monday. December 4th - Board Meeting @CAHS Studio (3:30pm)
Friday, December 8th - Girls Soccer, Boys Basketball @Escondido Christian (1:00pm)
Wednesday, December 13th - ASB Holiday Party
Thursday, December 14th- Monday, January 1st - Christmas Break No School
Hello Parents,
Welcome to November! This week students worked hard on Socratic Seminars, science presentations, researching Revolutionary leaders, an Endothermic or Exothermic Lab, taking tests, literature circles, writing and solving equations, and lots more! Students enjoyed dressing up as fictional characters for our Halloween Spirit Day and participating in their 6th, and second-to-last, elective with robotics, coding, a German meal, dancing, singing, drawing, spike ball, basketball, and soccer. Mr. Powell got to go backstage during musical theater tech week and captured amazing pictures of our performers. I hope that your family purchased tickets for the Best of Broadway production. It’s going to be a fantastic show!
As we enter Week 5, this is a great time to check your child’s progress by looking at the Schoology gradebook or Summit platform. We have office hours on Monday, November 6 and 13 so if your child needs to make up missing work or get help from a teacher, this is a great time to get that extra support.
Our 8th grade East Coast travelers begin their adventure of a lifetime on Thursday, November 9. We wish them safe travels and can’t wait to see the great pictures and hear about their learning during this trip. School is closed on Friday, November 10 for Veterans Day.
In partnership,
Mrs. Morrow, Principal
Volunteer Opportunities
Are you interested in volunteering at CAMS? This is a great opportunity to connect with other parents, check out our amazing campus and make an impact on our CAMS community.
We currently are seeking volunteers for our upcoming Thanksgiving Potluck, check out the link below to learn more!
We will have several opportunities throughout the year, click the link below to find out more!
Donors Choose
From Story to Screen Book Club Project
Update: The campaign just hit the halfway mark, we are $317 away from hitting our goal. With your continued support, the students will receive the materials they need for this awesome project!
This project aims to get kids engaged with stories by asking the question: How is the same story different when it is offered in a different medium? The book club unit is designed to encourage critical thinking and creative exploration. - Ms. Shurance
Check out our Donors Choose Link for more details!
CAHS Marching Band
Our wonderful marching band has their next tournament in Temecula this weekend (11/4). It's not too far considering they typically play up in Riverside and OC. They work their tails off and do so well considering we don't have a field to practice on. They also have a few CAMS kids performing with them. If you would like to come out and support them tickets will be sold at the door.
See flyer for more details
CAMS SPORTS
Attention parents! Our student athletes need coaches! We offer boys and girls: flag football, volleyball, soccer, basketball, track, and cross-country. The running events are just one meet only, and the other sports are 6 games total.
We have a volleyball coach, but if you are interested in helping coach one of our other sports seasons, that would be awesome! Please contact Tyler Powell at tpowell@classicalacademy.com
Have questions about our sports program?
Please visit our CAMS Sports FAQ Page for more information and updates.
Fall Sports:
Boys Flag Football & Girls Volleyball
Boys Basketball & Girls Soccer
Cross Country
Spring Sports:
Boys Soccer & Girls Basketball
Boys Volleyball & Girls Flag Football
Track Meet
Weekly Events
Each week, we are recognizing students who go ABOVE and BEYOND in demonstrating one of the 8 Keys of Excellence. Students who are recognized as going above and beyond get to put a star up on our Above & Beyond wall, and get to be celebrated in front of the whole school during morning announcements. We want to develop a school culture where students are kind, determined, have a growth mindset, have integrity, help others, speak with good purpose, take ownership, make the most of opportunities, etc., so we want to celebrate students when we see them doing those things.
Ryleigh Maguire: Habit of Tenacity
Coming from the summit program, M-track writing has been an adjustment with learning the ways of IEW and Fix It, and Ryleigh has showed such tenacity throughout the transition. She puts 110% effort into understand the content, advocates when she needs support, and comes into class each day with a positive, headstrong attitude.
- Ms. Schwarzfischer
Eliot Gardalits: Key of Commitment
Eliot displays the key of commitment in many ways, one of which is his dedication to his school work. He also is committed to the culture and success of his 4th period History class. He has made detailed, well thought out seating charts, and sets a wonderful example of what it means to a respectful, fun, and engaging student.
- Ms. Baker
Each week we will be highlighting a different class/staff member to learn more about the classes happening here at CAMS. This week, we're checking in on Mrs. B's 4th period 7th grade Writing class.
Mrs. B's 4th Period, 7th Grade Writing Class
We are currently learning how to take multiple resources and summarizing a singular topic based on the information gathered from both sources.
A little about Mrs. B
I have been at CAMS since early spring of 2023. In my spare time, I love to read! Currently, I am on the hunt for my next read. I also thoroughly enjoy spending time with my family!
A note from Mrs. B...
I enjoy teaching the 7th grade Writing course because it is a skill that is needed throughout the course of your life. Through the writing process, students gain an understanding of logical thinking and the best way to present their ideas.
Q & A with the students...
Naomi (Omi)
Kash
Talia
What do you like about Mrs. B?
Omi: She is really nice and her class is really fun, I really like her class.
Kash: I like that she is kind and always respectful about if I have a missing assignment she gives us grace if we need to turn it in a day late.
Talia: I like that she is honest, fun and easygoing, she makes class a lot of fun.
What do you like about Writing ?
Omi: I like doing grammar, it helps me with my handwriting and helps me to know what to put to make my writing sound good.
Kash: Its pretty simple and easy for me, its very easy to understand.
Talia: I like after when you are finished with everything, once I am done doing an assignment and I re read it I am impressed with myself. It gives me a sense of accomplishment.
What is something that you have learned in this class?
Omi: I have learned about adjectives, verbs and things like that.
Kash: I have learned about dress-ups for words and how to fix sentences to make them more readable.
Talia: I have leaned in fix it a lot of new things, they all help me to be a better student and writer.
School Info & Resources
Math Helpline
(click for more info)
Math Helpline for 4th-8th Grade Students
The Classical Academies will be offering live online math help for students and parents! Come and work on current, recent, and approaching lessons with Ms.Aguilar!
The Helpline will be available on the following days and times:
Monday-Friday 8:00 AM-12:00 PM & 1:00-3:00 PM
Join by checking your Schoology math course or tcalearn.com/mathhelpline
Cell Phone Policy
(click for more info)
Hello Awesome CAMS Parents!
One of the things I have most appreciated about CAMS as a parent, teacher, and administrator, is the commitment to having students engaged in class and with each other during breaks instead of their cell phones! Yes these devices can serve as excellent vehicles for communication and learning, however especially in the junior high setting, they often prove far more distracting and problematic on many levels.
As we enter our second unit, we are tightening our enforcement and appreciate your partnership in this process. The expectation for students is:
Any time on campus 8am - 3:15pm: cell phone turned off and in backpack
Student may text or call ONLY with staff approval in front office
If you need to get in touch with your student, please call our front office at 760-520-6800. We are very happy to deliver a message, have them come to the office to talk, etc.
If your student does not keep to this policy we will begin the following process:
1st Offense: Email home to you - phone held in office and student may pick it up at the end of the school day.
2nd Offense: Email home to you - phone held in the office and a parent or guardian must pick up the phone at the end of the day.
3rd Offense: You will receive a phone call from me to discuss/strategize on how we as a parent/admin team can partner together to keep this from continuing to happen.
Again, thank you for your support on this important piece of our school culture of student learning, focus, safety, and engagement!
Mr. Powell
Medication Policy for 2023/2024 school year
(click for more info)
If your student will require medication at school, at any time during the year, please print the required medication form here and turn it into the front office. We are not able to administer any medication (prescription or over-the-counter), without a doctor's signature, and the medication must be in the original container. Additionally, if your student will be carrying medication, you still need to fill out the medication form, have it signed my a doctor, and your student also needs to fill out the self-carry medication form. If your student requires an EPI PEN to be used on campus the following form must be filled out and returned to campus. This will better allow us to assist your student with possible reactions and side effects of your students allergies and gives us an action plan to care for your student properly.
Please note: We cannot accept any medication form for the 2022-2023 school year if it is dated before July 1, 2023. All forms must be signed & dated by your doctor after this date to be active for the school year.
CLICK HERE to read the medication policy TCA schools put into effect for the 2023-2024 school year.
Permission To Walk Off Campus
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Is your student going to be walking off campus after school? If so they must have a permission to walk/bike off campus form filled out and turned into the front office. The form can be found HERE
School Meal Program
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The Classical Academies is pleased to offer every student one free meal kit each day they are on campus. Meals must be pre-ordered through the front office and are available for pick up at break time, Tuesday-Thursday.
Students will be able to choose from the available pre-packaged Breakfast Kits. Each pre-packaged Breakfast Kit includes breakfast cereal, dried fruit, unsweetened regular or flavored applesauce, graham crackers, and low-fat milk.
Our breakfast program is available to all students, regardless of eligibility status. Pre-packaged Breakfast Kits must be pre-ordered online. A link to the order form is linked here.
Questions? Speak to your school’s front office or email us at meals@classicalacademy.com.
Box Tops for Education
(click for more info)
Did you know The Classical Academies participates in Box Tops for Education? If you've got the app, you can scan your Box Tops or receipts for our school. Thank you!
Click HERE for more information about the program.
Hello Families!
November is upon us and in our efforts to align and amplify this time of year, our campaign this month and next month is all about gratitude! Research shows that expressing and practicing gratitude positively impacts our mental and physical health. Additionally, it positively impacts the relationships we have with those around us!
In order to encourage an attitude of gratitude in your home, below is an informational handout about its benefits and practical ideas to practice thankfulness. As well, below you can find worksheets about gratitude such as journaling prompts, a list of 35 questions about gratitude and a gratitude scavenger hunt! I hope you find these valuable for your family.
Gratitude Worksheet Gratitude Benefits & Ideas Gratitude Scavenger Hunt
Here at CAMS, we are celebrating and encouraging gratitude in a variety of ways. I will be holding a variety of gratitude activities during WIN time, we will be selling Gratitude Grams at lunch for $1 from November 1st-8th and ASB will be hosting Gratitude Week from November 14th-16th. See the flyer below for more details about what we have planned for Gratitude Week!
For more information about this topic or other social emotional topics, please email me!
Alissa Atkins, CAMS School Counselor
aatkins@classicalacademy.com
If you have any questions for the school counselor or would like any specific resources for your child, please send Alissa Atkins an email at aatkins@classicalacademy.com
If you would like to refer your child for counseling, please fill out and submit a counseling referral form!
CAMS Carpool
Are you looking to set up a carpool for your student? Fill out this form and we will post contact information here for you to connect with other parents. Your information will be shared here for two weeks.
*The information in this section is provided as a convenience and for informational purposes only. It is independent of Classical Academy Middle School and is not affiliated with, sponsored or endorsed by The Classical Academies. Please contact the service provider directly with all questions or concerns. *
Halloween Candy Buy-Back
I-Rise Dental is holding their 1st Annual Halloween Candy Buy-Back November 1-6. For every 1lb of unopened candy we will give you $2 per pound (5lbs max). All candy donated will be sent to US Service Members and Local First Responders.
See attached flyer for more info!
Computers2Kids
The San Diego County Office of Education and Computers2Kids are hosting an event for families to purchase affordable refurbished computers.
Date: Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023
Time: 9 to 11:30 a.m.
Location:
East County Regional Education Center - ECREC
924 E. Main Street
El Cajon CA 92021(Drive Thru Event).
Click HERE for details.
Since July 2023 the partnership between SDCOE and Computers2Kids has provided more than 1,500 refurbished computers to 1,000 San Diego families. We hope your families are able to benefit from this event.
FCA Meetings
Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) meetings will be held after school on 11/7, 11/28, 12/12 from 3:15 to 4:15.
Any questions, please contact Russ Douglass (619)-204-4293 or Janel Barcelon (760)-419-8337.
Socal Volleyball Club
Join our midday beginner/intermediate clinics designed specifically for homeschool students. Learn the fundamentals of volleyball or get some extra reps in for your current season. Boys and Girls, ages 8-15. All skill levels welcome!
When: Mondays 11/6 - 12/18 from 11am-12:30pm
Where: 1482 La Miranda Dr, San Marcos
Questions: lcrews@socalvbc.com
See attached flyer for more information
Tutoring Services
Chad Phillips
My name is Chad Phillips, and I'm a Marine veteran and recently graduated UCSD Bioengineer. I live in Oceanside with my wife Sarah and our three amazing daughters. I'm launching a tutoring service aimed at offering math and science support to students who may require additional assistance, whether for grasping fundamental concepts or preparing for AP, Honors, ACT, and SAT exams. My services encompass personalized one-on-one and small group tutoring in science, chemistry, physics, and math (with a likely focus on Algebra through Calculus BC).
Please feel free to extend my contact information to anyone who may be asking about a tutor! I would be happy to find out how I can best satisfy the students’ academic needs.
Contact: chadwickphillips@gmail.com
Cara Pelling
Cara Pelling is a CAHS grad who is offering her tutoring services to Classical Students. Her information can be found here
Free Online Homework Help from the California State Library
The California State Library recently announced a free online tutoring service for CA K-12 students. Live, real-time homework assistance is available 24 hours a day by laptop, tablet, or phone from qualified virtual tutors using state curriculum and standards.
24/7 assistance is available in English and Spanish for Language Arts and Mathematics.
Additionally, assistance is available in other core K-12 subjects between 10 am and 10 pm in these languages: English, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, and Tagalog
To get started, tap here to open the website. Then follow the steps in the drop down below:
Click for Online Homework Help instructions:
On the first screen:
Next screen:
Now, choose “Live Tutoring.”
Choose grade level and subject area.
The actual tutoring screen will look like this.
Free Transit Passes For Students
Free Transit Passes for Students - Unlimited Rides on Bus, Trolley, COASTER & SPRINTER
SANDAG's Youth Opportunity Transit Pass allows anyone 18 and under to ride San Diego transit (bus, trolley, Coaster, and Sprinter) for free through June 30, 2024. There are several ways children and families can take advantage of this opportunity, such as using their existing online bus pass or getting a hard copy card through SANDAG.
In order to take advantage of the free pass, riders must have a Youth PRONTO app account or card. Riders who do not have a Youth PRONTO pass may either download one on a smartphone or pick up a free card from the MTS Transit Store, NCTD Customer Service Centers or select community organizations. For more information, visit the SANDAG website.
Comments, Suggestions, Great Ideas….
Do you have a comment, suggestion, idea to share? We have a special email address just for you, comments@classicalacademy.com. Your partnership is valued. Your ideas strengthen our programs. We look forward to hearing from you soon.