CCSD Cool School News

CCHS

On Saturday, Feb. 8, the JROTC Color Guard and Unarmed Drill Teams competed in the All-Navy Area 22 Drill Competition at Carson City High School. It had been years since the CCHS JROTC program last competed, making this a great opportunity for cadets to showcase their precision and discipline.

Despite challenges, cadets trained rigorously for weeks, demonstrating their commitment to the program and competition. Their instructor, Master Chief James Walker, acknowledged the road ahead but expressed pride in their dedication and progress.

Beyond competition, JROTC cadets volunteered at a youth wrestling tournament at Rafter 3C Arena on Jan. 25-26. Sophomore James Lofthouse led the volunteer team. With continued focus, the JROTC program looks ahead to upcoming drill and drone competitions across Northern Nevada. Bravo Zulu to all cadets for their hard work and commitment to the program and community.

CCMS

Last week, CCMS students and staff recognized Monica Davis and Jennifer Olsen as Gerka Staff of the Week for their dedication and impact on school culture and community.

Staff members praised Davis for her leadership in Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). One staff member said, “Rewarding students and giving them an opportunity to shine would not happen without Monica’s leadership.”

Students recognized Olsen for her unwavering support. One student shared, “Mrs. Olsen has helped me with multiple problems in class and always tries her best to help every single student in her class.”

CCMS thanks Davis and Olsen for their commitment to making the school a fantastic place to learn, grow, and teach.

Numa

Students in Trudy Mills’ class explored the properties of matter last week. They learned about physical, measurable, and testable characteristics.

During hands-on activities, students moved through six science stations, using teamwork and critical thinking to separate mixtures based on matter's properties. Some stations focused on sorting objects by size, shape, and color, while others explored magnetism and buoyancy. One station involved separating trail mix, which students enjoyed as a snack.

Students recorded their procedures in science journals and discussed their findings. Mills values hands-on learning. “It helps solidify their knowledge and makes science come alive,” she said.

E.C. Best

Last week, students in Juliann Lambson’s class explored the importance of human connection.

Students interviewed a classmate to learn more about each other, then read Wilfred Gordon McDonald Partridge. To spread kindness, they created Valentine's Day cards and sent them to local nursing homes.

“The goal of these activities was for my students to understand why building connections matters and how they can make a difference,” Lambson said.

Lahontan

Students in Monica Franks’ kindergarten class focused on kindness.

They began the week learning about polar bears, discovering what makes them special. Then, they explored random acts of kindness and practiced ways to create a positive and caring classroom environment.

To wrap up the week, students celebrated Valentine’s Day with a party featuring treats, heartfelt notes, and goodies for their friends—spreading kindness throughout the classroom. Pictured below:LES: Enzo Chick, Bryson Sammaripa, Noe Isael Robles Soria, and Poppy Mahoney’s Valentines Day bags they made to collect goodies from their classmates.

Northside Early Learning Center

Octavia Merritt and Montana Koplin’s class has been celebrating friendship around the world this February.

Students are collecting letters from every U.S. state to learn about connection and kindness. When they receive a letter, they send one back to thank the sender for their friendship and kindness.

“We feel this is a great way for students to learn about mailing letters, making friends across the country, and understanding that friendship, love, and kindness matter no matter where they are or who they are,” Merritt said. Pictured below: NELC: Isabella Horn and Aries George pose with their hearts across America map.