YALE 5-12th Bridging Home & School

Happy New Year and welcome to 2025! As we step into the second half of the school year, I’d like to share a quote that truly resonates with us at MAS:

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." ~ Nelson Mandela (South African anti-apartheid activist and politician.)

This powerful quote reminds us of the far-reaching impact of education. It’s not just about what students learn in the classroom, but how it empowers them to shape their futures and make a difference in the world.

At MAS, we are committed to giving students the knowledge and skills that will serve them for a lifetime. We take pride in the opportunity to guide and support them on their educational journeys, and we appreciate the role you play in this important work.

In this newsletter, you’ll find tips on how you can continue supporting your student’s learning at home and ways to collaborate with teachers to ensure that their growth remains both meaningful and lasting.

Thank you for your ongoing dedication to your child’s education. Together, we can make this a year full of progress, learning, and achievement!

Regards,

Mrs. Janice Julal, Dip.Ed., BEd. (Hons), MA. (Dist.), PQP
Secondary (5th–12th Grade) School Leader
MAS Yale Campus

At MAS, we are committed to helping every student grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Your partnership is essential in supporting their success. Here are some important reminders to ensure your student’s school experience is positive and productive:

1. Backpacks: Large backpacks (bigger than a sheet of printing paper) are not allowed in classrooms. If your student has classes at CNM or sports items, these must be placed on the designated carts each day. Please remind them of this safety requirement to avoid staff reminders.

2. Attendance: Consistent attendance is key to academic success. Please encourage your student to attend school every day to ensure they are on track and engaged.

3. Discipline: Help your student understand the importance of addressing conflicts calmly. Encourage them to seek assistance when needed and practice respectful communication to resolve issues.

4. Outside Food: Only small, personal-sized grocery bags or lunch bags are allowed. Outside food, including branded items or iced coffees, is not permitted on campus. Please remind your student to follow these guidelines.

5. Uniform Reminder: Students must wear MAS-issued uniform apparel, including plain black pants with no rips, tears, or writing. No colored sleeves under their polo shirts, and jackets are not allowed indoors. With the cold weather, please ensure your student is dressed warmly in layers beneath the uniform.

Thank you for your continued support in helping us create a positive and thriving environment for all students!

Rehnia is a bright 14-year-old 8th grade student who moved to the United States from Trinidad at the age of 12. Math is her favorite subject, especially when it involves solving and creating equations. When she's not mastering math, you'll find Rehnia at the local library, reading books daily to fuel her imagination. But that's not all — Rehnia also has a knack for crocheting cute animals and bags, and she loves to paint and draw. She enjoys sharing her journey with others, and it’s no surprise that she’s honored to be featured in this issue of our school’s newsletter. Her creativity and enthusiasm shine brightly in everything she does!

Born and raised in New Mexico, Liliana is an artistic soul with a love for both books and creation. When she’s not lost in the pages of a good story or solving complex math equations, you can find Liliana drawing and listening to her favorite music. English Language Arts and Math are her favorite subjects, as they let her dive deep into stories to find hidden meanings and challenge her mind with intricate numbers. With a natural gift for art and an eye for detail, Liliana loves expressing herself in creative ways. Her curiosity and passion for learning inspire everyone around her!

Mr. Celestino Pesana is an enthusiastic 8th-grade Test Prep teacher with a unique perspective. Originally from the Philippines, English is his third language, and he finds it thrilling to teach it to native speakers. Mr. Pesana brings creativity and excitement into his lessons, especially when reading stories aloud to his students. Watching his students connect with literature and grow more confident in their English skills is one of his greatest joys. His passion for the language and teaching shines through in every class, making learning English a fun and engaging experience for everyone!

As we head into flu season, we want to ensure that all our students stay healthy and safe. Please take a moment to review the following flu prevention tips:

• Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Remind your student to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow.
• Ensure your child gets plenty of rest, eats nutritious foods, and stays hydrated to boost their immune system.

For more information on flu prevention and symptoms, please visit the Flu Season website. Together, we can help keep our school community healthy this season!

Did you see the recent phone blast reminding families to complete the Letter of Intent for the 2025-2026 school year. If you missed the call or haven’t completed your student’s Letter of Intent to Return to MAS, please take a moment to fill out this important survey:

Complete the Letter of Intent

Important Reminder: This is just the first step — official registration will still need to be completed later this spring.

Please note: Missing the registration deadline may result in losing your student’s spot, requiring you to reenter the enrollment lottery.

Questions: Please contact enrollment@mascharterschool.com.

Thank you for your prompt attention!

As much as technology is a valuable tool for learning and communication, overuse can negatively impact your student’s mood and behavior. Excessive screen time has been linked to increased anxiety, irritability, and difficulty focusing. It can also disrupt sleep patterns, which affects emotional regulation and cognitive function. Encouraging a balanced approach to technology outside of school can help your child stay connected and engaged while also maintaining their emotional well-being and academic success.

Here are a few tips:

1. Set Limits: Establish clear rules for screen time, prioritizing homework, sleep, and family time.
2. Model Balance: Show responsible tech habits, like unplugging during meals.
3. Monitor Use: Keep an eye on apps and online activity to ensure safety.
4. Encourage Breaks: Promote screen-free time to support focus and mood.
5. Discuss Impact: Talk about how tech affects learning and emotions.
6. Foster Face-to-Face Time: Encourage in-person interactions to build social skills.
7. Tech-Free Zones: Keep bedrooms and study areas free from unnecessary devices.

Please mark your calendars for the following dates in February:

All Month: ACCESS testing for English Language Learners (all grades)

Wednesday, Feb. 5:

• English Language Arts (ELA) Biweekly Assessment (grades 5-12)
• Science Biweekly Assessment (grade 11)

Friday, Feb. 7: Science Biweekly Assessment (grades 5-10)

Wednesday, Feb. 12: SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) Practice Assessment (11th grade)

Thursday, Feb. 13:

• Biweekly Test Prep Assessment (grades 5-8)

Friday, Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day Celebrations

• Middle School Dance
• Classroom Celebrations for Elementary & High School

Monday, Feb. 17: President’s Day – No School (school is closed)

Thursday, Feb. 20: Math Quiz #7 (grades 5-12)

Thank you for staying informed and making sure your student is prepared!

5th Grade Teachers & Support Staff

5th Grade English Language Arts: Atiya Lawrence - atiya.lawrence@mascharterschool.com

5th ELA Small Group: Kaileigh Wells - kaileigh.wells@mascharterschool.com

5th Grade Math: Nemar Sindico - nemar.sindico@mascharterschool.com

5th Grade Math Small Group: Tony Penate - tony.penate@mascharterschool.com

5th Grade Science: Bryce Willis – bryce.willis@mascharterschool.com

5th & 6th Grade PE: Gabriel Triviz - gabriel.triviz@mascharterschool.com

5th & 6th Grade Test Prep: Joel Gallegos - joel.gallegos@mascharterschool.com

6th Grade Teachers & Support Staff

6th Grade ELA: Jamy Malone - jamy.malone@mascharterschool.com

6th Grade ELA Small Group: Elizabeth Lamiliano - elizabeth.lamiliano@mascharterschool.com

6th Grade Math: Mia Pabustan - mia.pabustan@mascharterschool.com

6th Grade Math Small Group: Autumn Hedlund - autumn.hedlund@mascharterschool.com

6th Grade Science: Carol Musweswe - carol.musweswe@mascharterschool.com

7th Grade Teachers & Support Staff

7th Grade ELA: Karmilya Wanliss - karmilya.wanliss@mascharterschool.com

7th Grade ELA Small Group: Melissa Stamper - melissa.stamper@mascharterschool.com

7th Grade Math: Mary Ann Gabisan - maryann.gabisan@mascharterschool.com

7th Grade Math Small Group: Carmen Hudson - carmen.hudson@mascharterschool.com

7th Grade Science: Chinazor Ike Njoku - chinazor.ikenjoku@mascharterschool.com

7th Grade Test Prep: David Galindo - david.galindo@mascharterschool.com

8th Grade Teachers & Support Staff

8th Grade ELA: Kristan Rudow - kristan.rudow@mascharterschool.com

8th Grade Math : Mark Schroeder - mark.schroeder@mascharterschool.com

8th Grade Math Small Group: Timothy Ford - tim.ford@mascharterschool.com

8th Grade Science: Mohammed Majeed - mohammed.majeed@mascharterschool.com

8th Grade Test Prep: Celestino Pesana - celestino.pesan@mascharterschool.com

Yale Campus High School Teachers & Support Staff

9th & 10th Grade ELA: Shanique Walker - shanique.walker@mascharterschool.com

9th & 10th Grade ELA: Andrew Gottshall - andrew.gottshall@mascharterschool.com

9th & 10th Grade ELA Small Group: Jeannine Kammann – jeannine.kammann@mascharterschool.com

9th & 10th Grade Math: Martin Overfield - martin.overfield@mascharterschool.com

9th & 10th Grade Math: Troy Barber - troy.barber@mascharterschool.com

9th & 10th Grade Math: Diedra Faulkner - diedra.faulkner@mascharterschool.com

9th & 10th Grade Math Small Group: Carl Essary - carl.essary@mascharterschool.com

9th & 10th Grade Science: Dr Humberto Morales - humberto.morales@mascharterschool.com

9th & 10th Grade Science: Girlie David girlie.david@mascharterschool.com

9th & 10th Grade Social Studies: Hugo Alberto Gonzalez - alberto.gonzalez@mascharterschool.com

9th & 12th Grade Social Studies: Carlton Donaghe - carlton.donaghe@mascharterschool.com

9th & 11th Grade Math: Alex Fiorvantes - alex.fiorvantes@mascharterschool.com

9th & 11th Grade ELA: Roxanne Bloomfield - roxanne.bloomfield@mascharterschool.com

9th & 12th Grade PE: Tre Haynes - tre.haynes@mascharterschool.com

9th & 12th Grade Social Studies & Science: Carlton Donaghe - carlton.donaghe@mascharterschool.com

10th Grade Social Studies: Jonathan Davis - jonathan.davis@mascharterschool.com

Middle School and High School Intervention: Aaron Cuffee - aaron.cuffee@mascharterschool.com