Griffins Connect
Week of January 21st #Together #WholeChild
PERFECT! 2023 SCReady
Last spring, 40 of our students scored PERFECT on at least one section of the SC Ready (ELA or Math, and/or Science. This accomplishment deserves to be celebrated and is a tremendous honor. CONGRATULATIONS!
*Note: Grade level noted indicates previous year.
Middle School
Pictured L to R: Lauris Kukainis (math), Zachary Holloway (math), Sameer Kozubowski (math), Grant Newton (math), Ryder VanEmmerik (science). Not pictured: Jaepyo Kim (math)
5th Grade & Middle School
3rd Grade
Pictured L to R: Keys Pfeiffer (math), Asher Moore (math), Luke Shiner (ELA), Robert Holcombe (ELA), Hudson Hartke (math), Oliva Parks (math), Lilliann Schmeissing (math), & Sylvia Stoudenmire (math).
4th Grade
Middle, L to R: Oliver Pill (math), Nathaniel Rahn (math, science), Audrey Frick (math), Amita Barik (math), Felix Arnold (math), Benjamin Hunter (math), Asher Duncan (math), & Marissa Hawthorne (math),
Back, L to R: Zolin Hernandez-Heffernan (science), Charlotte Bertling (science), Logan Perumal (science), Desmond Wilcox (science), & Zachary Watkins (science)
Not Pictured: Treyton Dryman (math), Preston Lancaster (science), & Harrison Turner (science)
📆 What's Ahead...
Monday-Friday, January 22-26: National Creativity Week (info below)
Monday, January 22: PTA Spirit Night @ Clare's Creamery; 4:00-8:00pm (info below)
Thursday, January 25: NCFC Parent Café; 5:30-7:30pm
Thursday, January 25: Pancakes with the Principals (for qualifying students); 8:00-9:00am
Friday, January 26: 4K Application Window Closes for 24-25 Year (info below)
Tuesday, January 30: Class/Group Pictures ($10.00 per photo; access site & use code FM436461)
Wednesday, January 31: FAB (Family & Books) Drop-In; 7:10-8:30am or 2:00-3:30pm (info below)
Thursday, February 1-Thursday, February 8: SOUPer Bowl of Caring (info below)
Thursday, February 1: Monthly SIC Meeting (All are welcome!); Vegas Room, 8:30-9:30am
January Sterling School SIC Corner
Every month, the Sterling School School Improvement Council will provide families with a recap of our monthly meeting (video below). In addition, you will find the approved minutes from the previous month's meeting: CLICK HERE!
Ultimately, our goal is to provide open communication of the important work that is happening from the group and to increase engagement and involvement across our school community. As a reminder, members of our school community are invited to attend our monthly meetings. We meet on the first Thursday of every month from 8:30-9:30am. We hope you'll join us! #Together #WholeChild
🎨 National Creativity Week #WholeChild
January 22-26 is National Creativity week with Crayola! The Art classes, as well as other classes, will be celebrating with creative and mind stimulating activities all week. We will have a hands on Creativity Table, Quotes about Creativity, Stimulating discussions, and much more. Creativity is a skill that challenges our students and sets them apart as we prepare them for their future. "You can't use up creativity. The more you use the more you have!" - Maya Angelou
🎨 Art Opens Doors!
Eight students from our 5th grade joined students from A.J. Whittenberg as they worked collaboratively to create a unique piece of artwork and to learn more about career pathways in the fine arts. The students engaged in conversations about how our commonalities and our differences create opportunities for our community to thrive. These conversations served as a launching pad for students to consider the many ways that “Art Opens Doors” by bringing people of various cultures and backgrounds together around a shared appreciation for art.
This community art project was developed by the Open Doors team of the Diversity Leaders Institute Fall 2023 Class of The Riley Institute at Furman University. Art Opens Doors is a collaborative visual art project designed and created by students and guided by Brandon Fellows emerging professional artists through this one-day artistic learning experience at the Greenville Center for Creative Arts (GCCA). The Doors created by the students will be showcased at the GCCA on Friday, February 2nd from 6:00 - 9:00pm. (Psst: Be sure to check it out after coming for International Night!)
🎨 April Arts '24 Save the Date
Please save the date for this year's April Arts! Our largest school wide event that celebrates the arts and our school community will be April 12. Our theme this year is "Express Yourself" and we'll feature art and activities inspired by a wide variety of artists! We look forward to sharing all the artwork of our incredibly talented students. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or if you're interested in helping! - Mrs. Harrington and Mrs. Spitler
🥣 SOUPer Bowl of Caring
Join the CTC Middle School Beta Club in their efforts to TACKLE Hunger through the SOUPer Bowl of Caring! Millions of people across our country will plan parties, prepare all kinds of fun foods and cheer for their favorite team on Super Bowl Sunday. Beta Club members would like to be sure that no one goes without SOUP in their bowl! We will be collecting non-perishable food February 1st through February 8th. Students have several options for getting their canned goods to school:
- *Drop off in the front atrium
- *Drop off inside the gym door at the back of the school
- *Drop off on Friday, Feb. 2nd when you come for the International Festival.
Let's all do our part to TACKLE HUNGER! Bring your canned goods to school Feb. 1st - Feb. 8th and make this year's Super Bowl - a SOUPER BOWL OF CARING!
Sterling School Clubs: Information & Updates
🧵 Sewing Club
Have you ever wondered how to hand sew? Do you want to learn? 4th and 5th graders, we have space for 12 students to join the Sewing Club and learn how to sew.
Club Registration forms are available in the front office or from Mrs. Harrington. Please turn in completed forms to the front office, first thing each morning between 7:10 and 7:45.
Forms are due by January 22nd. Confirmation emails will be sent to all members. We are limited to 12 students so turn in your completed application as soon as possible.
The first meeting is Jan. 24 1:35 P.M.- 2:05.
Meetings will take place on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month through May 8th.
♟️ Chess Club
Reminder: There are only a few spots left in the Free Play Chess Club. Registration is required for ALL participants (even if you were a member in the fall). There is still room for students to register for the PAID lessons through Think Move Chess $160 for twelve sessions. To register for either option, CLICK HERE!
The first meeting is this Friday, January 26th. All members will receive an email by Wednesday confirming your spot.
📚 Upcoming F.A.B. (Families And Books) Event 🏫
❄️ From the Sterling/CTC PTA ❄️
INTERNATIONAL NIGHT
Sterling/CTC PTA is excited to host International Night on Friday, February 2nd from 5:00-7:00 PM. This is a FREE, fun-filled event for the whole family to celebrate the many and varied backgrounds of our students.
Travel the globe by visiting the World Showcase with over 20 regional and country displays and compete in the International Sports Arena with a variety of activities! Come ready to learn new things and taste new flavors with your fellow Griffin families. Food will also be available for purchase by cash/card from Anetia’s Catering.
Guests are encouraged to come dressed in traditional cultural clothing or something colorful!
International Night Volunteers Needed!
We need your help to make this amazing event happen. Volunteering is easy and incredibly rewarding. See what’s available and sign-up now! International Night Volunteer Sign Up
Clare’s Creamery - Parkins Mill Neighborhood Shop
I Scream. You Scream. We all Scream for CLARE’S CREAMERY! Enjoy a delicious treat on Monday, January 22nd from 4:00-8:30 PM at Clare’s Creamery - Parkins Mill Neighborhood Shop and support a local business, while supporting our school!
Clare’s Creamery will graciously donate 10% of all sales back to our school, so invite your friends & neighbors!
Furman Basketball Game
Join your Griffin friends on Sunday, February 18th at 2pm for a fun afternoon of Furman Basketball! Cheer on the Sterling Honor Chorus as they take center court and sing the National Anthem to get the game tipped off for a big SoCon Matchup.
Tickets on Sale Now for the special rate of only $10 for all Sterling School friends and family! Complimentary parking is available right outside the arena. Timmons Arena has a Clear Bag Policy, meaning no purses or backpacks that are not clear are allowed in for the game.
Black History Month T-Shirt Design Contest
Please congratulate 4th grader, Dakota Murry, on her winning T-shirt Design. The design certainly captivates our Black History Month theme, African Americans and the Arts. Details for how to order shirts are forthcoming.
Sexual Health & Responsibility Education for Middle School Students
Coach Rouse and Coach Foor would like to remind families that, in accordance with the South Carolina Comprehensive Health Education Act (SC Code of Laws 59-32-5), Greenville County Schools provides an age appropriate, abstinence-based sexual health & responsibility education curriculum. This year, our middle school students will be receiving this instruction during one of their related arts blocks from Monday, January 22nd through Monday, January 29th. Complete details of the curriculum, including the slide presentation, and supplemental videos can be found at your child's school or located electronically HERE.
If you do not want your child to participate in the sexual health & responsibility education unit or a specific portion of the unit, you must bring this signed exemption form to the school in person. Students are not permitted to submit the exemption forms to their teacher. By School Board Policy and SC Comprehensive Health Education Law, students who exempt sexual health & responsibility education will be required to complete other health-related self-study lessons. Any additional questions may be answered by Coach Foor, Coach Rouse, or Mr. Murphy.
STARTALK Chinese Summer Program
*The following message comes from Dr. Yongfang Zhang, former Sterling/CTC parent.
In Summer 2024, the STARTALK Chinese program will be offered to forty-five rising 6th graders to graduating 12th graders in Spartanburg, Greenville, and other nearby counties.
This prestigious, free-of-charge Federally-sponsored program consists of three parts: (1) Pre-camp gamified learning; (2) Two-week intensive day camp on Wofford campus (June 17-28, 2024); (3) Eight post-camp projects where students apply what they’ve learned.
If you wish to know more about STARTALK @ Wofford, you can visit their website (CLICK HERE!). The application is now open (CLICK HERE!) and the deadline to apply is February 1st, 2024. Students will be admitted on a rolling basis and are encouraged to apply soon!
CLICK HERE for more information. If you have any additional questions about the program, email Valerie Soto at sotovl@wofford.edu or Dr. Yongfang Zhang, STARTALK @ Wofford Director, at zhangy@wofford.edu.
January is National Mentoring Month
Imagine a world where young people feel empowered, encouraged, and understood. Mentors can make that world a reality by helping young people find and follow their passions, excel in school, and thrive wherever they are. Did you know that January is National Mentoring Month? #WholeChild
Join Sterling School as a mentor! We are looking for committed adults who are willing to support and encourage ONE student in an ongoing one-on-on positive relationship. If you or someone you know from our school community are willing to volunteer 30 minutes of your time weekly, we need you!
If willing to serve as a mentor, please complete the interest survey found HERE! We will follow-up with training information and other pertinent details. For any questions, email Mrs. Lindsay Berry (school counselor).
4K Application Window for 2024-25 Year
In order for our Griffins to start their education on the right foot, we encourage participation in our high quality, full day 4K program! The deadline to apply is January 26th. If you know of anyone in our community who will be four years old on or before September 1, 2023, spread the word! #WholeChild
How to Apply:
There are two ways parents can complete the application for their child. They can visit the Parent section of this website and set up a Backpack account. Once it’s set up, open the Backpack account, look for “Enroll A Student,” and follow the instructions.
For families that do not have internet access, the application can be completed at each school. Parents are urged to bring all the required documents when they visit the school. Children do not have to live in the school attendance area to apply at that location.
The following documents are required for online or face-to-face registration:
- Photo ID from any state or country
- Two current “proof of residency” documents (all must contain property address). These can be a combination of:
- Current bills – i.e. electric, gas, water, cable
- Current mortgage statement or current signed lease agreement with landlord’s name and phone number
- Child’s Birth Certificate
- Signed Certificate of Immunization, Conditional Certificate of Immunization, or Religious Exemption Certificate (Religious Exemption Certificate provided by Health Department)
Please note: completing the application does not guarantee enrollment in Greenville County Schools 4K program. Parents will be notified of application status by March 1, 2024.
For more information, please email 4K@greenville.k12.sc.us.
2024 Sterling School Spelling Bee
With the word “NULLIFICATION,” 5th grader Carys Annett, was named the winner of year’s Sterling School Spelling Bee. Well done, Carys! Additionally, we recognize our runner up and middle school winner, 6th grader Jackson Champion-Wescott, who also gave a valiant performance. Carys and Jackson competed against 33 other classroom winners in this year's competition. Congratulations to Carys, Jackson, and to all of our this year's winners! #Together #WholeChild
2024 Greenville All County Band
Bravo to the 17 Charles Townes Center Griffin Band members for earning a chair in the 2024 Greenville All County Band! This band is comprises of the top instrumentalists in Greenville County. Congratulations to:
2024 Greenville All County Band: 1st Chair
Congratulations to the following students who earned 1st chair placements in the 2024 Greenville All County Band. Earning a first chair seat means the students received the highest score in their instrument division. Congratulations to:
1st Chair Clarinet: Nicholas Hu
1st Chair Tenor Saxophone: JP Hartman
1st Chair French Horn: Ashlyn Jones
2024 SCMEA All State Orchestra
Congratulations to the following students for successfuly auditioning into the South Carolina Music Educators Association’s (SCMEA) All-State Orchestra:
Amy Ding, 1st Violin
Caroline Yi, 2nd Violin
Aadi Agnihotri, Viola
Johnny Ropp, Viola Alternate
These talented musicians will represent Sterling School/Charles Townes Center at the 2024 All-State Orchestra Event at River Bluff High School in Columbia on February 23-25, 2024.
2024 Greenville All County Orchestra
Congratulations to the following students who will be participating in All County for Greenville in January:
Violins:
- Amy Ding
- Caroline Yi
- Dhanya Rajagopalan
- Ian Hamberis
- Gabriela Bernal
- Vaishu Bhadveli
- Anna Lee Davis
Violas:
- Emily Tavis
- Aadi Agnihotri
- Oliver Craig
- Jonathan Ropp
Cellos:
- Paul Manavalan
- Lily Arzt
- Mary Hazel Hinson
- Liam Felkel
Basses:
- Ganesh Mannepalli
- Aarush Bhatnagar
Great job musicians!! We are so proud of all of you!!
Sterling School Clubs: Information & Updates
CHESS CLUB is returning for the second semester. ALL 3-8th grade students who are interested in the spring session need to REGISTER....even if you participated in the fall.
Registration and payment (if you choose to do the paid lessons) are due on January 24th. The first meeting will be Friday, January 26th. Follow this LINK to register.
Purchase Your Yearbook Today!
Don't forget to order your child's yearbook! The process is super easy! Visit the Jostens site to order.
- Elementary: CLICK HERE!
- Middle School: CLICK HERE!
Can You Serve As A Substitute?
At Sterling School, we have amazing substitute teachers. These dedicated individuals help ensure that our school operates smoothly when a classroom teacher is absent. However, our list of active subs is short.
If you are able to help serve as a substitute for Sterling School and Greenville County Schools, please follow this link to get started and be sure to let us know (email Dr. Patterson!). We will be happy to help facilitate the process or connect you with current substitutes who can answer any of your questions. You may choose to work at any school or you can select Sterling exclusively. Work only on the days that fit your schedule. We appreciate your consideration to help the school by serving as a substitute!
Support a Griffin & Become a Mentor!
The Sterling School has a partnership with Mentor Upstate, a nonprofit organization that seeks to support children with one-on-one positive relationships. We are looking for committed adults who are willing to support and encourage ONE student for the year. If you or someone you know from our school community are willing to volunteer 30 minutes of your time weekly, we need you!
If you are interested in serving as a mentor, please complete the interest survey found HERE! Near the start of the 2023-2024 school year, we will follow-up with training information and other pertinent details. For any questions, email Mrs. Lindsay Berry (school counselor).
We Need YOU! Volunteer Training
Thinking of chaperoning a field trip, becoming a room parents, or mentoring a student? Parents at Sterling School may now participate in volunteer training either in person or online.
Upon completion of the online training module, you will be asked to take a short quiz which will be submitted to Mr. Murphy for scoring. All volunteers must answer each question correctly. Failure to do so will result in potential volunteers being asked to review the training module again or attend a face-to-face training.
To apply to be a Level II volunteer, please CLICK HERE! Follow "Level II" process and select "Field Trip Chaperone" as one of your functions/roles (even if you never want to go on a field trip). This needs to be selected to pull the background check. You may select as many other roles or all that you may be interested in. This does not commit you to anything.
If you have questions about the process or anything related to volunteering at Sterling, or if you prefer a face-to-face training, contact Mr. Murphy via email or (864) 355-4480.
Sterling School
Email: jpatterson@greenville.k12.sc.us
Website: www.greenville.k12.sc.us/sterling
Location: Sterling School, John McCarroll Way, Greenville, SC, United States
Phone: 864-355-4480
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theSterlingSchool
Twitter: @SterlingSchool
Principal - Sterling School & Charles Townes Center; Greenville County Schools, South Carolina.