Message from Interim Superintendent Dr. Latrice N. Mumin
Greetings CUSD families!
There are so many things to highlight before we break for spring recess.
As we reflect on the past month, I would like to acknowledge that St. Patrick's Day just passed, and I hope that those who observed the holiday had a wonderful time celebrating. Additionally, there are several holidays being observed this month, including Ramadan and Easter. It's important for us to embrace the diversity of traditions and celebrations within our community.
I would like to extend warm wishes to everyone currently observing Ramadan and wish a Happy Easter to those celebrating next Sunday. I hope that these holidays bring joy, peace, and togetherness to all who observe them.
There is a lot of important information and updates in this edition of Clipper Connection. I trust you will find this e-Newsletter helpful and I look forward to checking back in after spring recess.
Upcoming Dates!
Spring Recess:
We have finally made it to Spring Recess. Schools will be closed from March 25 through April 1, and offices will be closed from March 29 - April 1, giving everyone some well-deserved time off.
As with most school years, we’ve all probably encountered challenges along the way. But we persevered. I am fairly certain that I can speak for staff and students alike, and say, I am excited for a few days to relax. I hope that everyone takes this opportunity to recharge and practice self-care so that we can finish out the school year strong once we come back.
End of 3rd Marking Period:
Please note that the end of the 3rd marking period is Friday, April 5. That leaves only a few days for students to finish up last-minute projects and/or turn in missing assignments.
CUSD Status Hearing
A few weeks ago, CUSD officials and building leaders, including myself attended a hearing where we presented a report detailing the current state of the district to Judge Dozer.
The report is a comprehensive update about CUSD and highlights every department and school.
You can access the presentation by visiting chesteruplandsd.org. When you get to the homepage, scroll down to the CUSD News & Announcements section.
CUSD Awarded $1.8 Million Grant
The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) has awarded the Chester Upland School District $1,833,360 in grant funding. This grant comes from the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, (BSCA) Stronger Connections program and will help the district establish safer, healthier, and supportive learning environments for both staff and students.
We are grateful to our state officials who advocated for us to receive this funding.
CUSD Celebrates SEL District-wide
During National SEL Week, our schools went above and beyond. Our scholars participated in activities focused on promoting friendship, kindness, and empathy among their peers and community members.
From dedicated reading sessions centered around kindness to meaningful discussions on overcoming obstacles, our students had the opportunity to learn and practice essential skills such as self-regulation and mindfulness.
These activities were not just limited to SEL Week because here at CUSD, SEL is an important part of our daily curriculum across all schools. By emphasizing social-emotional learning, we are equipping our students with the tools and mindset needed for success both inside and outside the classroom.
Cheerleaders & Community Members Read to Students During “Read Across America Week”
Earlier this month, our schools celebrated Read Across America Week with different activities and initiatives to encourage and inspire our schools to read.
From a themed spirit week based on Dr. Seuss to our cheerleaders, community members, law enforcement, and elected officials coming to our schools to read to our scholars, it’s been a joy to see our scholars enthusiastically embracing the magic of books.
Thank you to everyone who joined in making the week a memorable experience for our entire school community.
Spring Sports’ Schedules Now Available!
Spring Sports are here! This season we have boys and girls outdoor track and boys baseball.
We are also excited to share that for the first time, we have a girls’ flag football team.
As always, we welcome community support for our student-athletes. The schedules for each program can be found on the Athletics Department’s website. Just click below to see the dates.
Happening Tomorrow!! Annual Oratorical Contest & Art Competition
Reminder! The Annual Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest & Andrew Turner Art Competition is tomorrow, March 21. The event will be at STEM and is scheduled to kick off at 6:00 p.m.
Our scholars from every grade level will compete in the oratorical contest and art competition.
We hope to see you there.
“Chester’s Got Talent” Staff & Student Showcase (Auditions)
The date is set. The 2nd Annual “Chester’s Got Talent” Staff & Student Showcase presented by STEM and CHS will take place on Thursday, May 2 at Chester High School.
As we gear up for the show, auditions will be held tomorrow, March 21 from 2:40 - 4:00 p.m. at CHS.
All staff and student performers who are interested in being a part of this showcase should see Ms. Bowser or contact her via email at dbowser@chesteruplandsd.org.