Volume 9, Issue 4

January/February 2024

Greetings,

As winter unfolds with cooler weather and rainy days, it is the vibrant activities within our schools that shine brightly, offering warmth and inspiration. We invite you to spend a moment exploring the accomplishments of our students and the school programs they enjoy that enrich their educational experience in the Cypress School District. May these highlights not only bring a smile to your face but also add a touch of warmth to your day.

Sincerely,

Anne Silavs, Superintendent

A.E. Arnold Elementary School

A Home Run for the Arnold Lions

The Angels Baseball Foundation has selected Arnold to participate in its Adopt-a-School program for the 2023/24 academic year. Schools that are committed to green initiatives and recycling education are considered for this opportunity. The Arnold school community will benefit from this program in many ways. For example, the school will receive a $2,000 grant to support student programs; baseball-themed lessons focused on leadership, integrity, and diversity; a player visit and student assembly, and Angel game tickets for all students and staff. Batter up!

Clara J. King Elementary School

Growing Student Leaders

Students at King have lots of opportunities for safe, inclusive play with support from their Junior Coaches. Students apply for the positions, and those selected receive training to support them in this role. Junior coaches explain the games and activities that have been planned for students during recess and lunchtime. Students love having choices for play, learning new outdoor games, and participating in positive chants led by the Junior Coaches. These outdoor activities promote schoolwide expectations of working at one’s personal best, showing respect, playing safely, and acting responsibly.

Margaret Landell Elementary School

The Great Kindness Challenge

Landell recently participated in the Great Kindness Challenge, a worldwide event that empowers students to create a culture of kindness at school. Students kicked off the event with a short video, filmed by the Landell TV crew, featuring various examples of kindness. During the week, students participated in many kindness activities, including making cards of appreciation for family, friends, and staff and writing personalized kindness wishes for the world. Students tallied 10,236 acts of kindness during the challenge, demonstrating the powerful impact students can have when working together!

Steve Luther Elementary School

Those Lions Got Talent

Luther’s schoolwide talent show is always a popular event, and this year’s lineup did not disappoint! Preparations for the talent show began in December with student informational meetings and continued throughout January with auditions and rehearsals. Students in kindergarten through sixth grade were encouraged to participate and create their own acts. The event featured a wide variety of singers, dancers, and musicians. There were even demonstrations of Tae Kwon Do and yo-yo skills. Everyone enjoyed the performances and learning more about the many talents of Luther Lions.

Juliet Morris Elementary School

Fun and Games with Friends and Families

To kick off the new year right, Morris PTA hosted a Family Game Night. Mustang families gathered in the multipurpose room to challenge each other in a wide variety of fun activities, including bowling and board games. There was even a giant-sized version of Connect 4! Friendly competitions were paired with lots of freshly popped popcorn, and buttery aromas filled the air. For dinner, students and their families noshed on pizza, sandwiches, chips, cookies, and soft drinks. The evening was also served with a side of literacy through a book raffle generously provided by the PTA, making this a well-rounded event.

Frank Vessels Elementary School

Dragon Dances and Ancient Tales Mark the Lunar New Year  



Vessels ushered in the Lunar New Year, commemorating the Year of the Dragon, at the school’s monthly flag ceremony. The occasion enabled students to experience some of the traditions that characterize this culturally significant celebration. They listened to stories that explained ancient customs and the various traits the mythical dragon represents. A standout moment was the dragon dance performed by a team of enthusiastic Vessels students. The ceremony was a great opportunity for everyone to share, learn, and appreciate the diverse cultural heritage of their school community.