Band members attend rehearsal with CVU band

Naomi Strada, (Condensed by Tom Scatchard)

Charlotte Central School has had a number of celebrations reflecting the theme of community found throughout the school.

Side-by-side band
On Tuesday, Feb. 21, the eighth-grade band members (along with some seventh graders) were treated to a side-by-side rehearsal with the Champlain Valley Union High School band. They played through some of their programs, worked on warm-ups and had time for a question & answer at the end.

File photo

The music was fabulous and smiles were plentiful. The collaboration with the high school is used to advance skills and knowledge, and to share the love of music. The opportunity was much appreciated. Many thanks were extended to CVU band director Andy Miskavage.

PCBs link
When the school received notification that there were areas in the building above action levels of PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls, manmade chemicals primarily used in electrical equipment that may be carcinogenic), a letter was sent to families. The organization and implementation of a response plan has been underway.

The school administration is keeping all updated information on the school website. Answers to frequently asked questions about PCBs are there.

While the school responds to the level of PCBs in the kitchen, there has been a modified version of the menu, which is updated weekly based on the needs of the kitchen crew.

Voices and leaders
There are a number of opportunities at Charlotte Central School for students to use their voices to make the school learning community stronger. The following groups are voluntary and open to any student who wishes to participate.

  • Student Council is an activity for fifth-eighth grades.
  • Student leadership training with Champlain Valley School District Diversity Equity and Inclusion and Outright Vermont to develop a culture of “upstanders.” Teachers will continue this training after the break so they can foster a community of advocacy and acceptance for students.
  • Third graders are learning to write persuasive essays.