Arnold Anchor - Arnold Middle School

Arnold Anchor
Arn old Middle School
October 2014
Volume 1, Issue 1
Note from our Principal
Inside this issue:
The Arnold Buccaneers are starting the 2014-15 school year off right where they left off last spring,
being the BEST. I can truly say this is the best start of school I have had in 31 years of education.
The students came to school full of enthusiasm and positivity. This great attitude is reflected in all
the activities the students are involved in. Our sports teams, clubs, and fine arts have already started
collecting honors.
This school year we implemented some new policies and procedures. Arnold has a new tardy policy,
stricter cell phone and dress code policies, backpacks are allowed in classrooms and a new early
morning drop off policy. Both students and parents have risen to the new expectations! Students are
getting to class on time, averaging less than 50 total tardies per week. This is amazing considering
there is a possibility of over 52,000 tardies per week. The students are also allowed to carry
backpacks to class this year. The teachers love the students having their backpacks with their school
supplies and assignments in it! The parents are following the new morning drop off policies. All of
these things have contributed to our students soaring in their academics as well. Each grade level
had over 90% of all students passing all classes, 6th grade-97%, 7th grade-91%, 8th grade was 96%.
Arnold had the following honor roll results.
Honor Roll and Perfect Attendance Counts
2014 - 2015
Distinguished
Total
Six
Weeks
6th
7th
8th
1st
90
74
109
273
Regular
Total
6th
7th
8th
199
143
147
Overall
Total
489
Art
2,3
Theatre Arts/
Band
4
Orchestra
5
Language Arts
6, 7
Math
8, 9
Social Studies
10
Science
11
PE/Athletics
1215
Counselors
1622
School &
District Info
2326
Yearbook/
Library
27
VIPS/Parents
28
Upcoming
Events
29
762
Perfect Attendance
Six Weeks
1st
6th
7th
8th
Total
Students who received HR and
Perfect Attendance
208
196
144
548
336 students received both
The fall fundraiser was a great success also, earning Arnold over $12,000. This money will be used
to buy items for the school store, needed classroom supplies, STAAR interventions, eighth grade
dance, seventh grade party and much more.
Parents, I encourage you to partner with Arnold Middle School in providing your child with the best
educational experience possible. Please use the Home Access Center (HAC) to monitor your
student’s academic achievement. Please do not hesitate to contact the school if you have an issue or
concern. Arnold is a diverse school full of engaged, energetic students and teachers. A place where
everyone strives to do their BEST every day and the reason why there is no place like Arnold.
Sincerely,
Vicki Snokhous
1
Art Department
The beginning of the year…
The very first assignment for all students in art this year was post-it art.
Students were asked to draw three things that described them or three things
that they felt attached to, on different post-it colors. Students used a variety
of different media for the drawings. This assignment served as a pre-assessment
for their drawing skills and was put together in an installation in the display case
by the library.
The theme of the installation was this school year’s theme, “Lead the Way.”
Rotation
Students in 6th grade rotation started off their year by studying the Elements of Art and working in their
sketchbook. They then went on to study color, color mixing and impressionist painting. Students created their
own impressionist landscapes, using oil pastel. Recently, they completed their clay sculptures based on Mexican
inspired pottery, they are looking forward to painting them! They are about to begin working in printmaking.
6th Grade Full Year
Students started off their year by studying the Elements of Art. They then went on to study balance and
positive/negative space through Notan Art. They recently studied early art and cave art and had fun creating
their own cave art on altered paper. Students recently began studying observational drawing, completing
contour line drawing, gesture drawing, and contour drawing. They will begin working on a still life drawing next
week.
Art
Students in Art began their year studying the Elements of Art and learned about the art of Zentangle.
Students practiced a variety of different patterns, culminating in the creation of their sketchbook covers. Art
students did a fantastic job! Students then went on to study the principles of design and different shading
methods. Art is presently learning color pencil techniques and creating a cubist or side by design, that shows
color harmony and the principles of design.
2
Art Department, continued
Art Design
Art Design started their year studying the elements of art. They then went on to study op-art techniques, and
used op-art to create their sketchbook covers. Following op-art they studied realistic drawing and shading
techniques, and drew a still life as a sketch artist. They are presently studying painting and color mixing,
creating a skateboard design as graphic designers.
Advanced Art
Advanced art began their year by studying the elements of art and the principles of design. They learned about
the art of zentangle and created sketchbook covers using zentangle inspired patterns. They then went on to
study drawing from observation and shading techniques. Students created their own still life using origami and
forms to draw off of. They are presently drawing their still life in graphite.
Art 1
Students in Art 1 started their year reviewing the elements of art and the principles of design. They then went
on to work brainstorming to develop ideas for their sketchbook cover, and for additional art projects this year.
They then worked in mixed media to develop their sketchbook covers. Following the completion of their
sketchbooks covers, students reviewed drawing techniques. They then completed a white charcoal drawing on
black paper of a white paper still life they constructed. Students are presently learning about composition,
color pencil techniques and color theory, in preparation for the Rodeo Art Competition.
Art Club
Art Club meets every Tuesday from 3:30-4:30 pm. Please see Mrs. Quevedo or Mrs. Teague for an application.
Officers Elections are to be held in the next couple of weeks. Positions include: President,
Vice President, Secretary, Treasure, PR manager, Club Social Coordinator, and Studio Coordinator.
The mission of art club this year is to beautify Arnold and help inspire student creativity.
Art club’s goal is to build school pride through art.
3
Theatre Arts Department
December 11, 2014
Theatre Arts Presents:
Their Holiday Show
Arnold Cafeteria
7:00 p.m.
January 14, 2015
Arnold Talent Show
Cy-Fair High School Auditorium
Band Department
We are off to a great and exciting start in the Arnold Band. Our 7th and 8th
grade students have performed their first concert of the year at the Fall Concert.
We hope you enjoyed the performances of all of our 7th and 8th grade bands. Our
next performance will be our Holiday Concert on Tuesday, December 16th in the
Cy-Fair High School Auditorium. This concert is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM.
The Honors Band will be attending both Honor and Region Band auditions
in the upcoming weeks. Honor Band auditions will take place Monday, October
20th at Goodson MS. Region Band auditions will take place Friday and Saturday,
November 7-8th. There will be more detailed information to come on these
auditions.
We are so excited for our Beginning Band students. We are making our
first sounds on our instruments and improving greatly each day. Our first
performance will be our Holiday Caroling on Wednesday, December 17th during all
beginning band classes. Performance times will be during each instruments’
designated class period. Parents are encouraged to attend. Please bring
cameras, phones and whatever else you need to remember their first
performance! It is truly a fun day!
As always, thank you for all of your support in
The Arnold Band Program!
4
Orchestra Department
Self-motivation, Discipline, and Focus = Success
In orchestra this fall, we are learning a lot and having a blast in Philharmonic, Symphony and Chamber
Orchestra, and the Beginners are starting out on a musical journey that I hope will last a lifetime.
Practicing at home is our DAILY homework, even on the weekends! In order for students to be
successful at all the music they are expected to accomplish this fall, practicing should be a part of each
orchestra student’s daily routine.
Practice sheets are due for a grade EVERY MONDAY, students log in their practice minutes each day
and turn it in on Mondays for a weekly homework grade. Parents please encourage your child to
practice every day and don’t forget to verify their practice time and check over the calendar for morning
rehearsals, when signing their practice sheets that are due each Monday.
Orchestra students must be in attendance at morning rehearsals. Morning rehearsals are assessment
grades for participation, and missing morning rehearsal can hinder a student’s understanding of the music we
are learning as well as drop their average in the class. Morning rehearsals are extensions of classroom time,
and are crucial to the success of our performing orchestras. The morning rehearsal schedule is clearly listed
on the practice sheets.
In mid-October, Arnold Orchestra sent 28 of its best performers to audition for the All Region Orchestra--which is a
performing orchestra made up of the best students from Cy-Fair and Spring Branch ISD combined.
These Arnold students practiced lots of extra music for this audition and put in countless hours at before school
rehearsals preparing for the Region Audition.
I will update you in the next newsletter as to how we did at Region Orchestra auditions this year.
Upcoming Performances:
Arnold Orchestra Fall Concert: Thursday, October 23rd in the Arnold Cafeteria.
Children’s Concert “Science Fiction and Space” with Arnold, Hamilton and Cy Fair H.S.
Orchestras is on Tuesday November 4th; fun starts at 6:30 pm, the concert/music begins
at 7 pm in the Cy Fair High School Auditorium November 4th
The Region Orchestra Concert is Saturday November 15th at Cypress Ranch High
School; the concert schedule is as follows:



4:00 pm Middle School Region Philharmonic Orchestra
4:45 pm Middle School Region Symphony Orchestra
5:30 pm High School Region Symphony Orchestra
Arnold Orchestra Holiday Concert:
Tuesday, December 9th in the Arnold Cafeteria.
5
Language Arts Department
6th Grade
Welcome new Buccaneers and Buccaneer parents!
Sixth grade reading and writing curriculum should be familiar to new sixth graders
as it follows the same principles of balanced literacy instruction used in Cy-Fair elementary
schools. The balanced literacy model combines all strands of the reading and writing
experience into one. Our launching units for reading and writing introduced students to
curricular concepts and expectations.
Currently, our reading unit is focused on concepts critical to comprehending fiction.
Students are to be reading books chosen to present just enough challenge to influence
growth. The librarian allows students to check out three books at a time. Students are
responsible for their own books and must have them everyday in class. Each teacher has
a collection of books in her room, so no student is ever without access to a book. Each
student is required to read 20 minutes or more in class using that time to use their books to
reinforce concepts taught in class. Additionally, students have regular reading
comprehension homework that is due every other Friday. While reading, students were
given certain analytical tasks to practice with their books using charts, graphic organizers
and post-it notes—lots of post-it notes. These tasks are designed to promote a dialogue
between the reader and the author, one in which the reader questions, predicts, analyzes,
and otherwise interacts with the text.
Writing is focused on elements of producing an original imaginative story, our own
fiction pieces. Lessons are designed to help students develop interesting plots with
engaging characters. Revision lessons focus on adding imagery and sensory detail as well
as using dialogue and sentence structure to add interest and greater fluency. Editing will
focus on conventions of grammar and mechanics and on using language to develop
individual style.
Each student is expected to keep notes and activities organized in a binder he or
she works in and maintains every day. Students need to keep supplies of notebook paper,
pens, pencils, highlighters, map pencils, and markers for use in class. Students also use
post-it notes daily. Please check regularly with your student to be sure he or she has the
supplies needed including replacing binders that break or wear out.
Thank you for all you do to prepare your students for school each day. We know
that you work at home to prepare your children for their time here and are grateful for all
that you do.
6
Language Arts Department, continued
7th Grade
Great things are already up and running this year in seventh grade language arts!
We began the year focusing on the Six Traits of Writing, which students will refer
when writing compositions each six weeks. We also completed our first Personal
Narrative Essay to help students prepare for the STAAR Writing Test in April. We
read several stories from the literature book to model good writing and practice
reading skills such as, identifying the author’s purpose and short story elements as it
applies to both reading and writing. While reviewing grammar, we have and will focus on
types of sentences and how to combine ideas to improve sentence fluency.
During the Second Grading Period, we are focusing on a
Literature Circle with The Outsiders. Students are not required
to purchase their own copy because we have class sets. In this
unit, students will be reading independently, analyzing characters,
analyzing the plot, and making inferences to help practice for the
STAAR Reading Test. Students will also be able to use examples
and scenarios from The Outsiders to enhance their future
writings. Towards the end of the Second Grading Period, we will
be writing our first Expository Essay to help prepare student for
the Writing STAAR Test. In this type of essay, students will be
asked to explain their opinion and provide examples to support
their opinion.
In addition, please encourage your child to read and write often. Practice makes
perfect.  We look forward to a great year in seventh grade language arts!
8th Grade
Welcome back! We are so excited to start a fresh new year, and experience the elements
of literature with our students. In the first unit, the students explored poetry and both
fiction and nonfiction pieces of literature. The first six weeks' theme focused on making
connections between all literary elements. Our areas of focus in this unit were point of
view, figurative language, plot structure, and analyzing short stories. Students are in the
middle of a novel unit where the focus is on characterization, mood, and using text
evidence to prove literary analysis answers. To round out the second six weeks, students
will be studying Edgar Allen Poe’s “Tell-Tale Heart” in order to grasp the different uses of
figurative language in literature.
We hope that the first two six-weeks will inspire an appreciation for both
Writing and reading as students make a connection between the two.
7
Math Department
6th Grade
Sixth grade math is transitioning to meet the new state standards. These new standards require your student
to increase their level of understanding in math by being able to combine multiple skills. These skills include
concepts previously taught in elementary school as well as new concepts being taught in each unit. The bar has
been set high for your students and they have done a remarkable job at meeting the expectations. Thank you
for your support!
What can you do to help your student be successful in class?
 Encourage your student to attend tutoring when needed. Email your student’s teacher for their tutoring
schedule.

Be sure your student is bringing a pencil, math folder, and assignments to class daily.
How can you help your student with math at home?
 Frequently visit Home Access Center (HAC) to monitor academic progress and encourage your student
to check as well.

At the beginning of every grading period, your student will receive a tentative calendar that includes
concepts being covered in class, assessment dates, tests dates, and other information.

The internet is a wealth of information and we encourage you to use search engines like Google to find
practice problems and games to reinforce what students have learned in class. You can use the calendar
as a guide.
We are currently in the rational numbers unit, which includes all operations with fractions and decimals. It
is strongly suggested that your student become extremely comfortable with their fraction/decimal
benchmarks and be able to convert between them fluently. In addition, you will continue to see Daily Math
coming home at the beginning of every week. Please take some time throughout the week to go over these
problems with your student.
We appreciate all of your help in making 6th Grade Math a success!
Benchmarks
½= 0.5
¼= 0.25
¾= 0.75
1/3=
0.3333…
2/3=
0.6666…
1/10= 0.1
3/10= 0.3
7/10= 0.7
9/10= 0.9
1/5= 0.2
2/5= 0.4
3/5= 0.6
4/5= 0.8
8
1/8= 0.125
3/8= 0.375
5/8= 0.625
7/8= 0.875
Math Department, continued
7th Grade
The summer has flown and we are well on our way into the new school year as we start the second six
weeks. The first six weeks had 7th grade math classes reviewing concepts they started to learn in 6 th grade.
The concepts were then built upon, so students should have a solid foundation to work with for the rest of the
school year. In the upcoming months the students will be learning new ideas and concepts so it is very
important to help your child in any way possible. This could include making sure they are finishing their
homework, studying for tests, or bringing them to tutoring if they are not grasping a particular concept.
The on-level math classes will start off the new six weeks with foundations of linear functions. This
includes topics such as unit rate, rate of change, and constant of proportionality. We will then move on to
rational numbers as we start the third six weeks and look to end the semester.
The 7th grade level-one math classes will start the linear functions unit as well. This includes classifying
multiplicative and additive relationships, independent/dependent quantities, writing equations, finding rate of
change, unit rate, and proportional relationships. We will continue to study linear relationships throughout the
third six weeks by looking at slope and direct variation relationships.
8th Grade
8th Grade math students have kicked off the year with a unit on Equations and Inequalities. Students have
been using graphing calculators in class to solve equations and explore inequalities. Our next unit will last
until Semester Break. Students will discover various forms of representations (scenarios, graphs, equations,
tables, and descriptions) and then find various forms of equations such as slope intercept form and other
algebraic ideas. Since 8th graders can use graphing calculators during the STAAR test this year, it is
important that they are using them every day. Students can find apps for graphing calculators on their i-pads,
tablets, and smart phones for completing assignments at home. Tutorials are offered afterschool on
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Remember to check online through the Home Access Center for
updates on grades and incomplete assignments. Students can log in with their Novell username and
password that we use at school.
8th Grade Algebra
The 2014-2015 school year is off to a great start in algebra classes. During the first six weeks of school,
students completed Unit 1: Foundation of Functions and are currently working on Unit 2: Linear Equations
and Functions. Throughout the unit students will investigate the multiple representations of linear functions
and generate the equations given various data sets. The unit will conclude with students achieving
proficiency in the manipulation of equations including combining like terms, variables on both sides, and
distributive property. Linear Equations and Functions will be followed by Unit 3: Linear Inequalities to
complete the first semester.
Algebra Tutoring Schedule
Morning Tutorials 7:35-8:00 a.m.
Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday
Afternoon Tutorials 3:20-4:30 p.m.
Thursday
All tutoring sessions require a pass with a parent signature. Morning tutorial passes can be picked up from
each teacher. Afternoon passes may be picked up from each teacher or printed out from the teacher’s
website.
Please continue to monitor weekly assignments and news on the teacher’s websites.
http://www.epsilen.com/laraharjo
http://www.epsilen.com/melissarawl
9
History Department
6th Grade World Cultures
We had a great first grading period we enjoyed learning
about culture and geography. During the second grading
period we have been studying the culture, history,
economics, government and geography of South American
countries. Also, during this grading period students will be
going to create a postcard to express what they have
learned while traveling through South America. We are
looking forward to moving on to our travels through Europe
and Russia to finish up the first semester.
7th Grade Texas History
We had a great start of the 2014-2015 school year. During
the second grading period 7th graders have spent two
weeks studying the government of Texas. They will discover
the 7 principles of government and learn the state
Constitution. We are now transitioning into the Anglocolonization unit and looking forward to getting to know
Stephen F. Austin.
8th Grade US History
We have introduced the Arnold’s 8th grade students to many
different areas of early American history. During the second
grading period we have begun to look at various causes of
the Revolutionary War and studying the Declaration of
Independence. We are looking at the war in depth, including
key people and major battles. We will complete our studies
by analyzing the Articles of Confederation and
understanding their importance as a forerunner to our
nation’s current Constitution.
10
Science Department
6th Grade
We just finished up our Super Chemistry Unit. The students enjoyed the numerous labs. Thank you
parents for helping us make those labs possible with your generous donations.
We will be ending this semester with the Force and Motion Unit. There will be some fun investigations
during this unit as well.
A few reminders:



Every student needs a new composition book or spiral next semester
Sign up for your child's teacher's Remind 101 texting system
Check out your child's teacher's webpage
Thank you for sharing your child with us!
7th Grade
Our 7th grade science students have had a successful 1st six weeks as they learned about
cells, the building blocks of life. We have also had the opportunity to explore science concepts
through the use of technology in the classroom. Students have enjoyed learning about cells and
their functions. The second six weeks kicked off the heredity unit. Students have explored DNA,
genes, and the passing of traits through generations.
We look forward to finishing out the fall semester investigating human body systems.
Please remember to visit the teacher Web Pages for notes, agendas, and upcoming events.
The teacher’s webpage is a great way to stay connected!
http://www.espilen.com/hollylewis1
http://www.epsilen.com/laurennavar
http://www.epsilen.com/klinder5
8th Grade
Welcome to the 2014-2015 school year! Our 8th grade science students have had a successful 1st
six weeks as they learned about energy, force and motion. We have had the opportunity to explore
these science concepts through several lab investigations. The Alka-Seltzer rocket and newton-car
labs were two of our exciting investigations in which students were highly engaged. Next, we will
begin our chemistry unit as it relates to atoms and the periodic table. Throughout each unit our
students will have the opportunity to utilize technology and other resources to broaden their
understanding of science through relevance and real life applications. We have an exciting year
ahead of us and we look forward to working with you and your scientists. Thank you for your
continued support as we strive towards excellence in 8th grade science.
Please remember to visit the teacher webpages for homework and important dates.
The teacher’s webpage is a great way to stay connected!
11
PE / Athletic Department
Arnold Girls Basketball
Try-out Information
2014-15
Coaches: 8 A & B - Coach Barcelona
7 A & B - Coach Kalinec
Who can play: 7th and 8th grade girls from Athletics or PE
(Student needs a PHYSICAL on File)
Expectations of try-outs: We will be observing the following skills during try-outs: basic fundamentals during
scrimmage and drill time which includes dribbling, shooting technique, passing, speed, endurance (getting up and
down the court), overall ability/skill level, court sense, attitude, sportsmanship and general knowledge of the game
(includes offense, defense, positions, etc.) Each criterion will be scored/ tallied into a scoring system for try-outs
and used to determine who makes the team.
Try-out Dates and Times:
Nov.
Nov.
Nov.
Nov.
7th Grade
11th-6:45-8:00 am
12th-6:45-8:00 am
13th-6:45-8:00 am
14th-6:45-8:00 am
8th Grade
Nov. 12th-6:45-8:00 am
Nov. 13th-6:45-8:00 am
Nov. 14th-6:45-8:00 am
It is strongly advised that you come to every try-out date.
Due to the time frame of try-outs, (beginning Oct. 27th, 2014) Athletes will be completing some of the try-out
criteria during their athletic period. All athletes who are in season in another sport will be given the same
opportunity as the students who are completing try-out criteria during this time frame. They will complete their
try-out criteria during the week of try-outs. On Friday, November 14th, teams will be posted on the front doors
of Arnold at 5 pm.
Paperwork: You must have all of the REQUIRED paperwork in order to participate: a physical, Sudden
Cardiac, Concussion, Emergency card and release of medical information. For more information on the
required paperwork please go to
http://www.cfisd.net/dept2/athletics/formpacket
Grades and Conduct:
You must have a 70 or above and E’s and S’s in conduct in all classes, in order to participate in basketball.
Transportation: You will need to make arrangements for transportation for try-outs before school. Please be on
time to try-outs.
Uniform and shoes: For try-outs and practice, you will need to wear your athletics or p. e. uniform. We are also
asking that you wear an appropriate shoes for basketball purposes. It needs to be laced up and tied properly to
give support to the foot and ankle.
Practices and Games: Practice will be in the mornings from 6:45-8:00 a.m. Practice times maybe earlier once
teams are decided. A team schedule will be given when athletes make a team. This season games are scheduled
for THURSDAY evenings. Schedules can be found @cfisd.net/athletics
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the coaches listed above at 281-897-4708. Or via email:
susan1.barcelona@cfisd.net and molly.kalinec@cfisd.net.
We look forward to having a positive, safe, and fun season!!!! BPND!!!!!!!
12
PE / Athletic Department, continued
2014 7th Grade Volleyball Team
7th A Team
7th B Team
Hua, Emily
Guerrero, Christi
Franz, Ainsley
Scott, Sophie
Zachos, Morgan
Arndt, BriAnn
Lindemann, Lauren
Schreiber, Kennedy
Cashaw, Loren
Padilla, Priscilla
Tims, Amaya
Foy, Ally
Furniss, Malia
Garney, Shae
Howard, Katlyn
Johnson, Taylor
Kemp, Paetyn
McCollum, Maddie
McGinty, Amaya
Miller, Kaycee
Petersen, Olivia
Reindl, Kolbie
Rodenbaugh, Jordan
Rotholz, Reade
Vernon, Kathleen
Williams, Brianna
RECORD 2-3
RECORD 2-3
2014 8th Grade Volleyball Team
8th A Team
8th B Team
Belden, Kallie
Coble, Jackie
Cooke, Chloe
Costa, Katie
Doyle, Jenna
Gallagher, Casey
John, Abby
Johnson, Caroline
Picou, Kennedy
Rios, Hannah
Scheaffer, Hannah
Barcelona, Gabby
Blanco, Elisa
Boatcallie, Haley
Castro, Allison
Galvan, Lauren
Garcia, Stephanie
Huebner, Alyssa
Krieger, Maddie
Locandro, Ryley
McDonald, Alee
Mitchell, Krysta
Morgan, Ali
Oviedo, Victoria
San Jose, Ashley
Scullion, Emily
Teamer, Taylor
RECORD 4-1
4-0 Record
RECORD 3-2
3-1 Record
Remaining Volleyball schedule for the season, game times 4:30, 5:30
October 23rd
October 30th
November 6th
November 10th
@ Truitt
Labay @ home
Aragon @ home
@ Dean
13
7th BA
7th AB
7th BA
7th AB
8th AB
8th BA
8th AB
8th BA
PE / Athletic Department, continued
Arnold Cross Country 2014
The Bucs Cross Country season came to an end on Wednesday, October 15th. We had 98
student athletes participate in the district meet! Our student athletes are made up of 7 th and 8th
grade girls and boys. Over all team finishes were the following:
 8th grade Girls: 12th place out of 18 schools
 8th grade Boys: 12th out of 18 schools
 7th grade Girls: 9th out of 18 schools
 7th grade Boys: 7th out of 18 schools
A huge thank you goes out to all of our parents, students and Arnold staff who came out and
supported our teams this season! We really appreciate you cheering on our Bucs!
Cross Country Outstanding Runners
All of the athletes did a terrific job this season, we did have a few athletes who placed
at each meet and would like to recognize them.
7th grade Girls: Morgan Zachos placed 16th out of 212 runners at district with a time of
14:00. She placed at every weekly meet, she placed 1st, had 3 2nd place finished and a 6th
place finish. Alyse Gonzalez, Beth Ann Bonner, Lisa Nguyen and Abbey Spence all had top
15 finished this season.
7th grade Boys: Beau Cagney placed 3rd out of 185 runners at district with a time of 12:06.
Greg Fossati placed 21st with a time of 13:03 also earning a medal and receiving ribbons at
every meet.
8th grade Girls: Alexa Truong placed 23rd out of 246 runners at district with a time of 13:57,
she also placed at every meet this season.
8th grade Boys: Blake White finished 19th overall at district with a time of 12:15 out of 218
runners. Blake also placed in every weekly meet earning a ribbon for each meet.
Proud of all our runners! Thanks for great season!
14
PE / Athletic Department, continued
Cross Country Roster
7th grade Girls
8th grade Girls
7th grade Boys
Karen Abularach
Cyndee Barefield
Beth Ann Bonner
Kamila Cardenas
Ana Contreras
Cameron Crowder
Alexis Cuevas
Amber Cummings
Jay De Vera
Amanda Dieu
Regan Dinh
Emily Dobney
Allison Fry
Joselyn Garcia
Ailani Adams
Cynthia Alfaro
Rosana Arteaga
Isabel Brooks
Hayley Brown
Lauren Bryant
Emree Curtis
Stephanie Diaz
Alexis Ellermann
Jasmine Jenkins
Emily Lefler
Fatima Medina
Paola Najera
Angeline Pham
Talha Ahmed
Austin Abdala
Nicolas Akins
Nathanael Austin
Beau Cagney
Ryan Bergeron
Ronald Erickson
Matthew Chang
Gregory Fossati
Michael Deo
Logan Garza
Alex Fanos
Balaji Gopalakrishnnan Carter Ho
Jordan Harris
Carter Lee
Gunther Houn
Cameron Lewis
Paul Ibrahim
Kellen Long
Anand Kalkat
Taylor Nguyen
Binh Nguyen
Matthew Nix
Victor Reyes
Justin Rangel
Franklin Sampson
Sahij Singh
7th grade Girls
8th grade Girls
7th grade Boys
8th grade Boys
Gabriel Sanchez
Jacob Schoenvogel
J’Veon Ware
Christian Montifor
Sonny Torres
Blake White
Alyse Gonzalez
Faith Sharp
Regina Gonzalez
Natalie Solis
Morgan Haney
Isabelle Tanguma
Anagalena Hays
Alexa Truong
Susan Hernandez
Analise Valdez
Madison Holmes
Shelby Howard
Jolea Jacob
Aaliyah Jenkins
Jahmir Jones
Upneet Kaur
Kinza Khan
Wendy Luong
Cristal Martinez
Bridgette Nguyen
Lisa Nguyen
Penny Nguyen
Sandra Perez
Marinda Perez-Gruetzner
Ramirez, Alexa
Robles, Diana
Alexia Rodriguez
Mariam Salam
Olivia Scott
Abbey Spence
Kahlea Sutherland
Yvonne Tessitore
Taylor Tran
Mar’kayla Rucker
Katlyn Franklin
Iyunie Narcisse
Allsion Wuellner
Morgan Zachos
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8th grade Boys
Counselor’s Corner
Counselors’ Corner ~
The counselors have had the opportunity to display guidance lessons which enable students to be enlightened on
today’s issues and areas of concern affecting our youth. These lessons play a vital role in assisting teachers and
other staff in the integration of guidance objectives with other instructional goals. The purpose of delivering
classroom guidance lessons is to assist students in their personal, social, academic development and aid in the
application of skills needed in everyday life. Lessons have included topics regarding social skills, bully
prevention, peer pressure, conflict resolution, and much more! All of our Buccaneers were seen by their grade
level counselor after the start of school to experience and discuss these topics. It was a great way to visit our
students as we started the school year!
Looking Forward…
Career Cruising is career exploration software which students utilize to inspire them to achieve their full
potential in school, career and life. It engages their imagination as it inspires them to take positive action
researching career choices. Our students will discover how they learn and retain career information and even
find tips on how to improve study habits to suit their learning styles. Each Buccaneer will visit the computer lab
during the Fall semester as they cruise into their future!
‘Testing, Testing, 1.2.3 Testing’
Please mark your calendars for our STAAR 2015 testing dates:
Date of STAAR
Grade/Subject
Monday, March 30
8th grade STAAR MATH (no Alg)
7th grade STAAR WRITING (day 1 of 2)
Tuesday, March 31
8th grade STAAR READING
7th grade STAAR WRITING (day 2 of 2)
Tuesday, April 21
6th & 7th grade STAAR MATH
8TH grade STAAR SOCIAL STUDIES
Wednesday, April 22
6th & 7th grade STAAR READING
8th grade STAAR SCIENCE
Tuesday, May 5
ALGEBRA EOC
16
Counselor’s Corner, continued
Generation Texas Week 2014-2015
The Arnold Counseling Staff kicked off Generation Texas week by participating in the “Flip
Out Over Your Future” day! The staff and students all dressed up in their favorite flip flops
and college attire as we helped our students get excited over their future. We encouraged
the teachers to help “Lead the Way” for their students, as the students are all beginning to
look towards their futures. Each staff member decorated a “train car”, which depicted
either their college that they attended, or what they still hope to accomplish in life. They
then all hopped aboard the “AMS Future Express” Train by placing their train car on the wall
by the counseling office. This train has been displayed on the wall all week, so that students
could see all the different options out there.
This “Trains and Treats” morning was an exciting event with college fight songs playing loud
and proud. We were able to enjoy our morning coffee and juice and eat muffins and streusel
bites all generously donated by HEB for breakfast.
On Tuesday, we focused on “Is your college/career a match for you?” Day! The students and
teachers dressed in their favorite “mis-match attire” (you should have seen some of the
outfits!!!) and participated in the Tuesday Trivia game! The advisory class that got the most
questions right with the fastest time won a cookie party! Congratulations Ms. Teague’s class!
We also had a representative from the U.S. Navy present during all the lunches to answer
questions about the Navy!
On Wednesday, it was “Hats off to Education” day! The staff and students all wore their
favorite hats! It was such a hoot to walk down the halls and see how creative our students
were! During the lunches today, the U.S. Airforce was present to talk about what they had
to offer the students after graduation.
On Thursday, we had our “How Bright Is Your Future” Day! Our students and staff dressed
up in their neon clothes and sunglasses all day! Today during the lunches, we had material
for the students from Sam Houston State University, Texas State, University of Texas, and
the University of Houston! The students loved getting more information about more
colleges!
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Counselor’s Corner, continued
On Friday, it was “Crazy about College” Day! The staff and students all wore their favorite
college t-shirt with crazy socks! We also had the finale to our Door Decorating contest that
the advisory classes had been working on all week. Congratulations to Mr. Edmun, Ms. Lusk,
Ms. Chapin, Ms. Howard, Ms. Johnson, Mr. Turner, Ms. Alishusky and Ms. Poston! Their
advisory classes all won a donut party for how they decorated their doors in regards to their
futures!! Way to go y’all!! We also had a representative from Texas A & M University come
out to all the lunches to talk to the students about what A & M has to offer them! The
teachers also had the 4th annual teacher tailgate luncheon outside! HEB provided the staff
with baked potatoes and frito pies! They were soooo good! What a great day! Thank you
HEB!!
The students were also shown advisory lessons each day related to how to become college
and career ready. As you can see, here at Arnold, we take college and career readiness
seriously! We love to promote our successes so that they children can see that they can do
it too! You can never start learning about planning for your future too early!
Go Generation Texas Week!!
~Dennis, Lauri, Tammy, and Kristi 
****************************************************************************************
8th Grade ~ 4 Year Planning Parent Meeting ~ November 13 ~ 6:30
Our 8th graders are participating in 12 advisory lessons, ‘Business
Meetings’, this fall to learn details about their personal high school
graduation plan. All parents are invited and encouraged to attend this
informative meeting to discuss all the new details. Don’t be left out!
Let’s talk!!
Looking forward to seeing you Thursday,
November 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the Arnold cafeteria!
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Counselor’s Corner, continued
Military Academy Night
Hosted by Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
Guidance & Counseling Department
________________________________________________________________________
West Point
Navy
Air Force
Coast Guard
Merchant
Marine
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
November 18, 2014
7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Berry Center / In the Theatre
8877 Barker Cypress Rd., Cypress, TX 77433
All Middle & High School Students & Parents interested in attending any of the
Nation’s Service Academies are invited to attend this informative program. The presentation
will begin promptly at 7:00 so please plan to arrive on time. Representatives will present
information and answer your questions on the application process, admission requirements,
and nominations for the following:





US
US
US
US
US
Military Academy
Naval Academy
Air Force Academy
Coast Guard Academy
Merchant Marine Academy
Representatives from The Citadel, Texas Maritime Academy, and the Army and Air Force ROTC
will also be available.
For more information, students should contact their school counselor.
19
Counselor’s Corner, continued
Noche de las Academias Militares
Evento patrocinado por Cypress-Fairbanks ISD y el
Departamento de Orientación y Asesoría
__________________________________________________________________________________
West Point
Armada
Fuerza
Aérea
Guardia
Costera
Marina
Mercante
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
18 de noviembre de 2014
7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
En el Teatro del Centro Berry
8877 Barker Cypress Rd., Cypress, TX 77433
Invitamos a padres y a estudiantes de escuela intermedia y secundaria
interesados en ir a alguna de las Academias de Servicio de la Nación a asistir a este programa
informativo. La presentación comenzará puntualmente a las 7:00, por lo tanto asegúrese de
llegar en hora. Los representantes presentarán información y responderán las preguntas que
usted pueda tener acerca del proceso de inscripción, los requisitos de admisión y las
recomendaciones para lo siguiente:





Academia
Academia
Academia
Academia
Academia
Militar de los EE.UU.
de la Armada de los EE.UU.
de la Fuerza Aérea de los EE.UU.
de Guardia Costera de los EE.UU.
de la Marina Mercante de los EE.UU.
También habrá información disponible acerca de la Universidad Militar Citadel, la Academia Marítima de Texas
y sobre otras oportunidades del Cuerpo de Entrenamiento para Oficiales de Reserva (ROTC) del Ejército y la
Fuerza Aérea.
Para más información, los estudiantes deben contactar a su consejero escolar.
20
Counselor’s Corner, continued
21
Counselor’s Corner, continued
22
School and District Information
WANTED!
ARNOLD MENTORS!
What is a mentor?
A mentor is a suitable role model committed to serve as a guide and a friend,
helping a student with his or her educational and social development.
How much time would I need to devote to the mentoring program?
Once a week for thirty to forty-five minutes.
Whom should I call if I have more questions?
Diane Kampsen at 281-517-2664 or Jenna Box at 281-897-4733.
What do I need to do to sign up?
Anyone interested in being an Arnold mentor will need to attend a district
training session. Trainings are sponsored by the Cypress-Fairbanks I.S.D.
Community Engagement Department and are held at the Berry Center located
at 8877 Barker Cypress Rd.
To register, go to the Cy-Fair ISD website (www.cfisd.net) and click on
Community Involvement/Mentor.
Mentor trainings are posted on the Cy-Fair website under Community
Involvement/Mentor.
23
School and District Information, continued
HORIZONS Mid-year Testing/Students K-11
Open Referral Period
October 1 through December 5, 2014
Parents who wish to refer their child for HORIZONS testing must follow the process
described below:

Please access the parent information within the HORIZONS website at
http://www.cfisd.net/en/parents-students/academics/giftedtalented/ and review the PowerPoint presentation entitled, Should I Refer My Child

for the HORIZONS Program?
If testing is appropriate, request a HORIZONS Parent Survey and Permission to Test
form from your elementary counselor or secondary director of instruction. The form may
also be accessed on the HORIZONS website,
http://www.cfisd.net/files/7514/1027/4292/permissiontotest.p
df.




Return the HORIZONS Parent Survey and Permission to Test form to your director of
instruction no later than Monday, December 5th. Students will not be screened unless
the parent permission form is returned by the December 5th deadline.
Kindergarten students will be tested on their campus during the school day in January
2015, and students in grades 1-11 will be tested on their campus during the school day
prior to spring break. Specific testing dates will be provided to parents by the campus.
Kindergarten students who qualify for HORIZONS will receive services beginning in March
1 with parent permission.
Students in grades 1-11 who qualify for HORIZONS will receive services at the beginning
of the 2015-16 school year with parent permission.
If you need more information, please contact Bridget Milligan, Director of Instruction for
Arnold, at 281-897-4723.
24
School and District Information, continued
Evaluación de mediados de año del programa HORIZONTES para
estudiantes de K a 11mo grado
Período abierto para recomendaciones
1ro de octubre al 5 de diciembre de 2014
Los padres que deseen recomendar a sus hijos para ser evaluados deben seguir el
procedimiento descrito a continuación:

Visitar el sitio web de HORIZONTES en: http://www.cfisd.net/en/parents-
students/academics/gifted-talented/

y mirar la presentación en formato
PowerPoint titulada: ¿Debo recomendar a mi hijo para el programa HORIZONTES?
Si se considera que la recomendación es apropiada, solicitar el formulario “Cuestionario
para Padres y Permiso para Evaluar de HORIZONTES” de parte del consejero de
escuela primaria o del director de instrucción de escuela secundaria. Este formulario
también puede obtenerse en el sitio web de HORIZONTES
http://www.cfisd.net/files/7514/1027/4292/permissiontotest.p
df.




Entregar el formulario “Cuestionario para Padres y Permiso para Evaluar de
HORIZONTES” al director de instrucción para el lunes 5 de diciembre a más tardar. No
se evaluará a estudiantes que no hayan presentado el formulario y permiso de los padres
para la fecha tope del 5 de diciembre.
Los estudiantes de Kindergarten serán evaluados en su escuela durante el horario
escolar en enero de 2015 y los estudiantes de 1ro a 11mo grado serán también evaluados
en su escuela durante el horario escolar antes de las vacaciones de primavera. A
comienzos del segundo semestre, las escuelas notificarán a los padres las fechas de
evaluación específicas.
Los estudiantes de Kindergarten que califiquen para el programa HORIZONTES
comenzarán a recibir servicios el 1ro de marzo, con el permiso de los padres.
Los estudiantes de 1ro a 11mo grado califiquen para el programa HORIZONTES
comenzarán a recibir servicios a principios del año lectivo 2015-16, con el permiso de los
padres.
If you need more information, please contact Bridget Milligan, Director of Instruction for
Arnold, at 281-897-4723.
25
School and District Information, continued
Award’s Times
6th Grade: 6:00 p.m.
Awards Criteria for Awards Ceremony
Thursday, May 21, 2014
Cy-Fair High School Auditorium
7th Grade: 7:00 p.m.
8th Grade: 8:00 p.m.
Daughters of the American
Revolution
The San Jacinto Chapter of the National Society of the
Daughters of the American Revolution awards a Good
Citizenship Medal to an outstanding 8th grade student.
This Student exemplifies the qualities of honor, service,
courage, leadership and patriotism.
Duke University Talent
Award
Seventh grade students are identified and invited to
complete either the SAT Reasoning Test or the ACT
Assessment college entrance examination. These
students received state level recognition and Duke TIP
then provides the participants with resources for unique
educational opportunities.
Outstanding 8th Grade Student
Student exceeds in leadership, academic performance,
citizenship, responsibility, involvement in extracurricular
activities and outstanding overall contribution to Arnold
Buccaneer Spirit Award
Student is recognized for showing school pride,
exhibiting a positive attitude, encouraging others,
displaying energetic enthusiasm and supporting school
activities through their time and service.
3 Year Distinguished Honor
Roll
Eighth grade students, enrolled in the Cy-Fair school
district, who have made all A’s for the three years of
middle school.
Distinguished Honor Roll
Students have earned 7 A’s for each six weeks, while
maintaining satisfactory conduct.
Honor Roll
Students have earned no less than 4 A’s and 3 B’s
each six weeks, while maintaining satisfactory conduct.
Perfect Attendance
Students enrolled in the Cy-Fair school district, who
attended every class, every day of the current school
year.
26
Yearbook
We had a great start to the year by selling over 150 yearbooks at Buc Express. Thanks to all
of you who supported us with your purchase. We will be selling again during lunches
throughout the year including October 22-24.
Each book is $40 and the personalization (name & icons) are $5 each.
The price will increase in January. You may also purchase books on-line at
www.balfour.com
To purchase yearbooks at school, please send a check, made out to Arnold Middle School,
or cash with your child. If the books aren’t being sold during lunch, students may come to
Mrs. Belinoski’s room, PB 4 or have their Advisory teacher email Mrs. B at
lisabeth.belinoski@cfisd.net
. Parents are also encouraged to email with
Student Spotlight
questions or concerns.
If your 7th or 8th grader did not get a book from last year, we still have some available. The
discounted price is $25.
The Yearbook Staff is very excited about our theme and recently created the cover art (a
milestone in Yearbook world). Our great Staff is led by Editor-in-Chief Anthony Fuentes.
The Managing Editor is Gia Garcia, and the Design Editor is Emily Rayburn. Other staff
members include Miah Hernandez, Fayhaa Rahman, Fahmish Rizvi, Andrew Combs,
Stephanie Garcia, Elisa Blanco, and Karly Sullivan. Each student on the team has
important responsibilities to help create a great book of memories for 2014-2015.
Library
Last year students read
28,800 library books!!!
27
VIPS
The entire staff wants to thank our wonderful VIPS
for all they do for us at Arnold Middle School!
Our VIPS have been working very hard this year with:







Staff Luncheons
School Pictures
Fundraisers
Vision/Hearing
Honor Roll
School Store
Box Tops
Parents/Guardians
Parents,
When you are looking at the grades in Home Access Center, you may notice letters in addition
to numbers. Teachers use numbers for grades, but they may also use a Z, 0 or X.
Z–


The assignment is missing, but can still be completed and turned to the teacher by the
student.
Z averages in as a zero.
0 (Zero) –
 Student has earned this grade on the assignment because the assignment was not turned
in within the required number of days.
X–



The teacher is not going to issue a grade for the assignment. T
The student doesn’t need to complete the assignment.
X averages in as if the assignment doesn’t exist for that student.
If you have any questions about any grades or letters that you see in the HAC, please contact
your child’s teacher.
28
Delivering Items to Students at School and Transportation Changes
In the front office, we have a cart for parents to place items that your child has forgotten at home.
This is a courtesy to help students and parents with occasional deliveries.
If you leave an item for your child, please notify your child in the morning that you will be
delivering an item and to stop by the front office to check the cart on their way to lunch. We don’t
always have the opportunity to send notice to your student about items on the cart or
transportation messages by the end of the school day.
Visit our website www.cfisd.net /
schools & facilities / middle schools /
Arnold
Follow Arnold on Twitter
Arnold Middle School @ ArnoldBucs
Arnold Middle School
11111 Telge Road
Cypress, TX 77429
Upcoming Events
Thanksgiving Holidays
November 24-28
Picture Re-Takes
Nov. 4, 2014
Winter Holidays
December 22, 2014-January 5, 2015
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