A message from Charlotte Central School principal

Naomi Strada, (Summarized by Tom Scatchard)

Throughout the week, I have spent a significant time listening to the caregivers and community members of the Champlain Valley School District. The common thread is a commitment to children.

I’ve heard honest debates about the impact of the tax burden on residents. I’ve heard fear that a proposed reduction will have significant impacts on the programming for our youth. I’ve heard firsthand from families who are “surprised” by the layers of responsibility educators and public schools have in caring for and teaching learners.

Public education is complex. People have differing needs and expectations of schools. Channels for sharing ideas are muddy and at times void of curiosity and compassion to understand the multifaceted role schools play. 

How can we unite those differing values to nurture, to educate and to prepare the caretakers of our future? Take time to listen to those outside of your close circle. If you don’t have students in the school, reach out to a neighbor who does. Consider volunteering and feel the impact you can have on the wellbeing of this community.

When we’ve invited community members to volunteer, I’ve heard there is a misconception that you will be filling in for a position that is not funded. In reality, our volunteers: 

  • Provide one-on-one connections with a student. 
  • Spend time reading with small groups. 
  • Help lend a hand in the cafeteria or on the playground sometimes to cover someone who is sick or at a training but more importantly, to make sure every student is seen during these busy times. 
  • Bake cookies with a student to share the sweetness of their work. 

It is with the deepest of gratitude, I thank those of you in the community who have reached out to share your passion, your time and your commitment to these inspiring youth. 

I applaud the exceptional educators of CCS who show up each day, staying focused on creating a safe and accepting learning space for all children.
Jen Roth

Fourth graders share poem and fun
When Charlotte Central School fourth graders led a whole-school morning meeting on a recent Wednesday, they shared a poem collectively written called “Where I Am From at CCS.” Some excerpts include:

  • We are from the school quote, “Take care of yourself; take care of each other; and take care of this place.”
  • We are from the trees that give us shade.
  • We are pizza for lunch on Thursdays and donuts for snack on Friday.

The fourth graders wrapped up the meeting by leading a game of animal master where staff and students from kindergarten-eighth grade played a game like rock, paper, scissors where the animal master would be a moose, snake, lion and shark. They led a fun morning meeting.

School choice deadline is April 1
Children entering kindergarten-eighth grades living in Charlotte, Hinesburg, Shelburne, St. George and Williston may exercise school choice. The goal is to both allow options for families while making balanced class sizes for a positive learning environment for all students. Processes for intra-district choice of school will be guided by the needs of students, space availability and existing resources. Given this, the Champlain Valley School District will work to meet as many families’ needs as possible.

Guidelines and application forms can be found at cvsdvt.org or by calling the district office.

Family Math Night
On Wednesday, April 3, the Charlotte Central School PTO will hold a family math night. It is free to all ages and will be held in the Multi-Purpose Room from 6-7:30 p.m. There will be many games, raffles and prizes, all focused on math fun.

If you would like to attend, RSVP. Please include your child’s name and number of children attending.

Girls on the Run registration open
Girls on the Run inspires individuals of all abilities to discover, build and grow their self-confidence. They experience a sense of belonging and connection as a team. Volunteer coaches facilitate lessons that blend physical activity with life-skill development, including managing emotions, fostering friendships and expressing empathy.

At the end of the season, the team completes a community-impact project and a 5K, which provides a sense of accomplishment and sets a confident mindset into motion.

Charlotte Central School registration is limited to 15 participants, so register now. For more information, reach out to the school’s Girls on the Run coach, Kevin Fleming.