A Message from Mrs. Bialkowski

This November, our Chargers have been diligently practicing gratitude and appreciation in a variety of ways:  Writing lessons showcasing what they are thankful for at home and in life, practicing showing gratitude to the adults who serve them at school, and complimenting each other as peers on the daily use of “Please” and “Thank-You.”  Having a grateful heart is just one of the many goals we hold for our Chargers as they learn and grow!

Harvest Parties

On Friday, November 1st, our classrooms hosted individual Harvest Parties to celebrate the season!  Pumpkins were painted, cookies were decorated and all kinds of autumnal games were played.  We love hosting our annual harvest parties and inviting parents to join in on the fun.  Thanks to the parents who volunteered their time to run centers, stations or donate items for the activities; it was a great success!

Veterans Day Parade

This year, we hosted our first ever Veterans Day Parade to honor CTA family members who have served our country. Mrs. Heidi Reichelt spearheaded the event which included a welcome breakfast with cider and donuts where family members could mingle and meet one another. This was followed by a parade; our students lined the sidewalks and hallways and made signs and banners to honor the Veterans as they walked through. It was a really special event and we hope to see it grow in the future!

Native American Heritage Month

Check out the group projects our CTA 3rd graders created in honor of Native American Heritage month!  Students worked in small groups to research some of the tribes local to Michigan.  Students worked to learn about their regional locations and how they impacted farming and food as well as their cultural traditions.  Groups presented their posters and had a chance to “Gallery Walk” and make comparative and contrasting observations of other tribes as well.

November was a fast and furious month at CTA in our Middle School and High School.  We not only had our Thanksgiving day to spend with loved ones but had to adjust a little the week before with the city water situation. Our students and staff were tremendous with their flexibility!  A few of the highlights from November included:

-The Army National Guard visited our Student Assemblies in November on Veteran’s Day and talked about how this portion of the Nation’s Service branches contributes to our State and Nation’s safety.  Our students asked great questions and were very informed.  It was a great day.

-Winter Sports seasons are now in full swing.  Boys and Girls Basketball teams in both the Middle School and High School are competing, it promises to be excellent seasons for both teams.

-Our High School has colleges and universities visit during lunch times to present information about their respective institutions.  We have had Ferris State University and Grace Christian University visit in the past month.

-Jostens was on campus to meet with students about class rings and for our Seniors as we look towards graduation.  Our partnership with them has been strong and they really enhance our student experiences.

We look forward to the month of December as there are many fun things planned for our students and staff.

Go Chargers!

~Brett Zuver, Secondary Principal 

We’re incredibly proud of our Chargers who competed in athletics this fall season! A big congratulations to Xander Toth and Lizzy Fouts for earning All-Conference awards.

• Holiday Spirit Week Starts on December 16

• Holiday Break Starts December 23 & Students Return to School on January 6