CMS Cougar Communication

Dear Students, Parents, and Families,

We are now about a month into the third trimester, and this is our final week before Spring Break. The school year is moving quickly, and we are firmly in the final stretch.

This is a critical time for students to stay focused and maintain strong academic habits. We encourage all students to attend school consistently, stay current with assignments, and reach out to their teachers for support when needed so they can finish the year strong.

We are also continuing to see confetti eggs and other toys being brought to school. These have been causing distractions during class and disrupting learning. As a reminder, toys are not allowed on campus. Items brought to school will be collected and may need to be picked up from the office.

With Spring Break right around the corner, energy levels are high, but expectations remain the same. Staying focused, respectful, and responsible will help ensure a positive and productive close to the trimester.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership.

Brian Scharmann (he/him)
Principal
Christensen Middle School

The only way to guarantee your CMS 2025-2026 yearbook order is to purchase one from the Varsity Yearbook Order Center.

Yearbooks are $40.00 and sales will end on April 6, 2026. There will only be a limited number of copies available for purchase after this date. The prices include shipping to CMS in June.

Books will be sold directly through the publisher. Use a credit card to order your yearbook. Go to www.YearbookOrderCenter.com or call 1-866-287-3096 and use School Code16490.

If you want to verify your yearbook order, please visit the Varsity yearbook website at www.yearbookordercenter.com. Click Find Your Order. You will enter the email address used when you placed your order. The school number is 16490.

Hi Parents!

Helping Students Cope with Stress: This month in counseling lessons, I will be presenting “Ways to Cope” designed to give students practical tools for managing stress both at school and in everyday life. Middle school and junior high years can bring academic pressures, social challenges, and growing responsibilities. Through this presentation, students will learn useful strategies such as healthy coping skills, ways to recognize when they’re feeling overwhelmed, and how to use simple techniques to calm their minds and bodies.

It’s important to recognize that many students today are very aware of what is happening in the world around them. News about global events, community issues, and other difficult topics can sometimes create worry or confusion for young people. Even when adults think students aren’t paying attention, they often hear and absorb more than we realize!

Family plays an important role in supporting students’ emotional well-being at home. Some helpful ways to support your child include:

• Creating space for open conversations. Ask how they are feeling about school, friendships, or things they’ve heard in the news.

• Validating their feelings. Let them know that stress and worry are normal and that it’s okay to talk about them.

• Encouraging healthy coping habits. Regular sleep, physical activity, creative outlets, and breaks from screens can all help reduce stress.

• Modeling calm problem-solving. When adults demonstrate healthy ways of managing stress, students learn those skills too.

Our goal is to help students build resilience and confidence so they can navigate challenges in healthy ways. If you have questions, please feel free to reach out!

Dawn Allen, Counselor

Registration is now open for anyone interested in participating in our athletics programs this year! Here are the requirements for being cleared to participate in Christensen Middle School athletics:

1. Register for all sports that the athlete is planning on playing this year HERE.
2. All athletes planning on participating will need to have an updated physical. We require a signed physical by a doctor within the last 12 months. Here is a link to a physical form that can be used: LVJUSD Physical Form. Other forms signed by a doctor may be acceptable but must specifically clear athletes for participation in sports. Physical forms will only be accepted through Home Campus (link above).
3. CMS athletes must have received a 2.0 GPA on the previous trimester's final report card. Incoming 6th graders are not held to this requirement until an official grading period has been completed.

The tentative start dates for the athletic programs we offer are listed below. More specific information for each sport will be communicated through the morning announcements and this newsletter as each season approaches.

• Wrestling (Co-ed) - March
• Golf (Co-ed) - April/May
• Track and Field (Co-ed) - April/May

Please reach out to our Athletic Director, David Moore, at dmoore@lvjusd.org if you have any questions.

Join the Family Resource Centers Network of California for an Evidence Based Practices webinar focused on Visual Supports on March 31, 2026 from 10:00 to 11:30 am

FRCNCA Visual Supports (VS) Web…

This session will introduce visual supports as an evidence based practice for families, including what they are, why they are effective, and practical examples that can be used at home to support daily routines. Parent support staff will also learn strategies they can share with other families. Presenters include Nicole Mann, M. Ed, Autism Preschool Educational Specialist, and Tavia L. Lawson, B.B.A, Family Support Specialist. Registration is available through the link on the flyer.

This Wednesday, we celebrate our incredible paraprofessionals who make a difference in classrooms across our campus each and every day. Their dedication, patience, and commitment to supporting students and staff do not go unnoticed. From providing individualized support to helping create positive and inclusive learning environments, our paraprofessionals are an essential part of our school community.

We are grateful for:
Jennifer Bernstein, Karina Mussari, Sherilyn Solomon, Kate Tasto, Erika Simonds, Janet Dimits, Marissa Mendez, Vinodhini Gnanasekaran, Elizabeth McWhorter, Garima Singh, Emily Thompson, Ragina Gianotti, and Austin Gomes!

We appreciate all that they do and encourage our students and families to join us in showing appreciation for their hard work and impact!

Join us as we celebrate the dedication of our CMS Pocket Forest, a special space created to support environmental learning, sustainability, and student engagement.

• 📅 Wednesday, April 1
• 🕔 5:00–6:00 PM
• 📍 Christensen Middle School
• 5757 Haggin Oaks Ave, Livermore

This community celebration will include:

• Student speakers
• Signage reveal
• Forest tour and planting information
• Appreciations
• Refreshments and raffle prizes

We are excited to partner with the Tri-Valley Air Quality Climate Alliance on this meaningful project and hope to see you there as we celebrate this addition to our campus.

Please be sure to RSVP here: https://www.evite.com/event/03EAIIAE4SKDAAHWGEPREJOKCEJDSA

We hope you can join us!

Make time for music this April! Join us for the Festival of Bands on Thursday, April 2, 2026, from 7:00–8:30 p.m. at Livermore High School. Come enjoy performances from our talented middle and high school band students.

This event is sponsored by LVEF, and all ticket proceeds support music education in our schools. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at https://livermorevalleyeducationfounda.thundertix.com/events/261129.

This Friday, we celebrate our Library Media Specialist, Kelly Boulware, and the important role she plays in supporting learning across our campus. From helping students discover a love of reading to guiding research and fostering curiosity, our library is a space where learning comes to life.

We are grateful for the care, organization, and passion Kelly brings to creating a welcoming and engaging environment for all students. Thank you, Kelly, for everything you do to support literacy, learning, and a lifelong love of books!

Support the Christensen Middle School PTA by dining at Nick the Greek on April 3, 2026. When you bring the flyer or order online using the coupon code Force4Good, 15% of your purchase will be donated back to the Andrew Christensen PTA to support programs and activities for our students.

The fundraiser runs all day at the Nick the Greek location at 2190 First Street in Livermore. Families can participate by dining in or ordering through the Nick the Greek mobile app or website using the code.

Thank you for supporting Christensen Middle School and helping our PTA continue to provide enriching opportunities for students.

🌸

During Assistant Principal Appreciation Week, we are proud to recognize our outstanding Vice Principal, Ms. Shiffrin Chi, for her dedication and leadership at CMS. Ms. Shiffrin Chi plays a vital role in supporting students, staff, and families, and works tirelessly to ensure a positive, safe, and supportive school environment.

Her commitment to building strong relationships, addressing student needs with care, and supporting both academic and behavioral success makes a lasting impact on our school community each day. We are grateful for her leadership, professionalism, and the countless ways she supports our students.

Thank you, Ms. Shiffrin Chi, for all that you do!

Students interested in health care careers are invited to attend the Black Men in White Coats Youth Summit 2026, a hands on, inspiring event designed to introduce young people to the medical field.

Open to students in grades 6 to 12, as well as college students and families, the summit includes grade level workshops, interactive simulations, mentorship and networking with physicians and health care professionals, and a raffle for participants who are present.

The summit will be held Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Las Positas College in Livermore. Registration and breakfast begin at 7:45 a.m. Registration opens January 26, 2026.

This is a wonderful opportunity for students of all backgrounds to explore future pathways in health care and connect with professionals in the field. See the flyer QR code to register and learn more. The event is supported by partners including Kaiser Permanente.

Join us for a fun night of friendly competition at the Staff vs. Student Volleyball Showdown on Friday, April 17 from 6:00–8:00 PM in the CMS Gym. Students can form teams of six and compete for just $2 per player, and spectators can attend for a $2 entry fee. Food and drinks will also be available for purchase (cash only). All proceeds benefit the CMS AVID program, so come out to play, cheer on your classmates and teachers, and support a great cause.

To sign up a team, complete the form here: https://forms.gle/3Xs4Y9yu6A72uA2r6

Join LHS for a fun-filled afternoon at our Cowboy Carnival on Friday, April 17 from 3:15 to 6:30 PM! Families can enjoy carnival games, food trucks, inflatables, and plenty of activities for all ages. The event will be held at 600 Maple St in Livermore, and entry is just $5, with all proceeds supporting ASB Leadership.

We hope to see you there for a great afternoon of fun and community!

Explore the world of science, engineering, and technology at the 8th Annual Tri-Valley Innovation Fair on Saturday, April 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton.

Hosted by Quest Science Center, this free, family-friendly event features interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences from local companies, schools, and innovators. All ages are welcome, and admission is free.

Come discover, explore, and be inspired!

Mark your calendars for an evening of incredible music at the Festival of Orchestras on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 7:00–8:30 p.m. at Granada High School. Our middle and high school orchestra students will showcase their hard work and talent.

This event is sponsored by LVEF, and all ticket proceeds support music education in our schools. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at https://livermorevalleyeducationfounda.thundertix.com/events/261128.

Our students will take the English Language Arts/literacy (ELA) and Mathematics CAlifornia Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) tests beginning May 5, 2026. Our eighth grade students will also take the Science assessment beginning April 27, 2026.

These online California Common Core State Standards based tests include both a multiple choice/short answer section, as well as a performance task.

The CMS testing schedule is as follows:

• April 27-May 1 – CAlifornia Science Test (CAST) in Science 8th Gr. Class
  
• May 4-8 – CAASPP English Language Arts (ELA) Test, All grades in Core Class
  
• May 11-15 – CAASPP Math Test, All Grades in Math Class
  
• May 18-22 – CAASPP Make Up Testing

For additional CAASPP information, please go to the LVJUSD website State Testing – CAASPP page. We encourage our students to do their best on these tests!

Grab your boots and join us for a fun night of line dancing at Stampede on Tuesday, April 28! Doors open at 5:00 PM, and the evening will include great food, dancing, and a chance to support the Christensen Middle School Library.

Whether you're a beginner or experienced, come out, learn some new moves, and enjoy a great community event. For reservations or questions, please contact Catherine Christian at (925) 864-5302.

There will be a virtual English Learners (ELAC) parents' meeting from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday 4/28.

Join us at this link: Google Meet, agenda to follow.

💃🕺 More info to follow!

The first CMS School Site Council meeting will be held virtually on Tuesday, May 5 at 3:00 PM.

Join us at this link: Google Meet, agenda to follow...

The East Bay Regional Park District is hosting a free All Abilities Day designed especially for Special Education students and their families. This event focuses on creating an inclusive and accessible environment where individuals of all abilities can participate and enjoy hands on activities.

All Abilities Day will take place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at Ardenwood Historic Farm. Families are invited to attend and enjoy a welcoming day centered on connection, exploration, and fun.

This year the eighth grade trip to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom will take place on Friday, May 15. In order to take part in this activity, students must have passing grades in all classes on their report card at the end of the second trimester, February 27, 2026. Students must continue to maintain passing grades during the third trimester to attend. Students who do not meet the participation guidelines will be restricted from attending the 8th Grade Field Trip.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom permission slips will go out at the start of Trimester 3. Permission slips and field trip emergency form and money are due no later than Friday, April 3. The cost is $100 for ticket and transportation or $50 for transportation only (for students with season passes). Permission slips are available and payments can be made via the 8th Grade Activities Information section of the CMS website.

Students attending the Six Flags Discovery Kingdom trip should report to their first period class at the usual time. Students enrolled in 0 period should attend 0 period. Buses will return to CMS at approximately 6 p.m. for parent pick-up. Students not attending the Six Flags Discovery Kingdom Trip will receive an alternate schedule for the day.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom only accepts card payments at all locations including restaurants, retail stores, games, ticket windows, and parking toll booths. You can either pay for purchases using a Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, or a debit card. Only have cash? You can convert your cash to a prepaid debit card at one of the multiple kiosks located throughout the park and anywhere in the U.S. where Visa is accepted.

Outside food and drink is not allowed in the park, so students will need to plan on purchasing lunch.

More information on their policies can be found on their website: https://www.sixflags.com/discoverykingdom/plan-your-visit/park-policies.

We have a traditional blue promotion gown ready for each of our 8th grade students to borrow for their promotion ceremony. Gowns will be distributed after school on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, to allow families to have the weekend to use the gowns in photographs, etc. Gowns will be collected at the conclusion of the ceremony in yellow bins as students and families exit the quad.

All 8th graders are invited to attend the 8th Grade Promotion Dance on Friday, May 22, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. In order to participate in this activity, students must have passing grades in all of their classes by Thursday, May 21, 2026.

Eighth grade students attending the dance must present their current CMS photo ID card at the door for admittance. Students who do not adhere to the District dress code will not be permitted to enter the dance.

There will be no school on Monday 5/25 in observance of Memorial Day.

The Promotion Ceremony begins promptly at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 28, in the CMS Courtyard.

A blue promotion gown will be provided to each student to borrow for use during the ceremony. Gowns will be returned at the end of the evening.

In order to participate in this activity, students must have passing grades in all of their classes for the third trimester. We encourage our eighth graders to see this event as one for which they "dress for success." Jeans, flip flops, and hats are not appropriate for this event and are not permitted at the ceremony. Note that it is possible for students not to have the grades for the Six Flags trip but still be able to participate in the other two promotion-related activities.

Promoting students need to arrive in the gym no later than 5:30 p.m. on the night of promotion, May 28. All students are expected to be dress code appropriate (no gum, hats, strapless, spaghetti straps, halter-top dresses, sagging pants, etc.). In addition, all students must wear the royal blue Promotion Ceremony Gown. This is an important event and we want to ensure that all students are dressed appropriately.

There will be no reserved seating at the promotion ceremony. The gates will remain locked on the day of promotion until 5:15 p.m. We ask that all families respect the handicap seating areas and are considerate of others. We have limited seating with the chairs available. We also ask that families do not bring noisemakers (as they can create distractions), balloons (which can obstruct the view), or animals to the ceremony. Thank you for your cooperation.

We look forward to seeing you at the promotion ceremony. Please call the office at (925) 606-4702 if you have any questions.

Students may not bring their backpacks on the last day of school. All students will be released to go home at 12:25 p.m. on Thursday, May 28. We will not be releasing 8th graders early. If you need to sign your child out before 12:25, please remember those students who are promoting will be rehearsing until approximately 11 a.m. It is important that all students who are participating in promotion be at the rehearsal.

The Alameda County Fair will host a sensory friendly morning on Wednesday, July 8 at 11:00 AM, offering a quieter and more supportive fair experience for individuals who benefit from reduced noise and lighting. The event is designed for guests with autism, PTSD, or other sensory sensitivities and will include designated quiet zones and a calmer environment throughout the fairgrounds.

Guests attending the sensory morning are welcome to stay and enjoy the fair for the rest of the day as it transitions into the regular fair experience. Attractions available during the sensory morning include the Sensory Activation Vehicle, the Safeway Barn and animals, fair food, exhibits, shopping, and live entertainment. Sensory friendly rides with minimal music and visual effects will also be available.

Capacity for this event is limited and special tickets are required. Families can reserve tickets here:
https://q.me-qr.com/c9vzrmdx

Congratulations to our Cougar Kudos winners this week! These students were recognized for consistently demonstrating the CMS Core Values of Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Safe, and Be Kind.

Congratulations to:

• 6th grader - Callen Isselhardt

• 7th grader - April Maldonado

• 8th grader - Zoe Williams

We are so proud of these students for setting a great example for their peers—way to go, Cougars!

Congratulations to our Cougar Kudos winners this week! These students were recognized for consistently demonstrating the CMS Core Values of Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Safe, and Be Kind.

Congratulations to:

• 6th grader - Luna Romasky
• 7th grader - Pransh Duara
• 8th grader - Charlie Abbott

We are so proud of these students for setting a great example for their peers—way to go, Cougars!

This month, we are pleased to recognize Mr. Thompson, one of our dedicated math teachers, for the meaningful impact he has on our students and staff each day.

Mr. Thompson plays an essential role in supporting students’ growth in mathematics while also building their confidence as learners. Whether he is delivering clear and engaging instruction, providing targeted support, or encouraging students to persevere through challenging concepts, he consistently demonstrates patience, professionalism, and care.

His structured approach, high expectations, and ability to connect with students help create a classroom environment where students feel supported and capable. Mr. Thompson builds strong relationships with students and collaborates closely with colleagues to ensure all learners have access to meaningful and effective instruction.

We are grateful for Mr. Thompson’s commitment to our school community and the positive difference he makes every day. CMS is better because of his dedication to students and their success.

We are proud to share that CMS students Lyann Duong and Hope Lim recently participated in the Amador Valley High School Girls Who Code Summit through our school’s Girls Who Code Club. Working together as a team, they earned an award at the event, a fantastic accomplishment!

This annual summit brings students together to explore coding, problem solving, and teamwork in a fun and engaging environment. We are so proud of Lyann and Hope for representing CMS and for their hard work, collaboration, and creativity.

A big thank you to our families and staff who continue to support opportunities like Girls Who Code, helping our students build confidence and explore future pathways in STEM.

Our CMS Talent Show was a huge success, showcasing the incredible talents of our students! From singing and piano to guitar, violin, and even gymnastics, students took the stage with confidence and creativity, impressing a packed audience.

We are so proud of all of our performers for their courage and hard work, as well as our student leaders who helped bring the event to life, including our emcee and stage and tech crews.

Congratulations to all of our participants for an outstanding evening of entertainment. CMS is full of talent, and we loved seeing our students shine!

We are grateful to recognize CMS student William Rettig for completing an outstanding Eagle Scout project on our campus. William designed and built several new garden planters, expanding our outdoor learning and growing spaces for students.

These planters will support hands-on learning opportunities for our Agriculture Club and special education programs, helping students engage in gardening, sustainability, and real-world applications.

Thank you, William, for your leadership, hard work, and commitment to improving our school community. Your project will have a lasting impact on CMS students for years to come!

We’re excited to celebrate the installation of a new “put-in-cups” fence mural on campus, made possible through a great partnership between our PTA and students. PTA generously funded the materials, and a team of AVID students, Nataliya Barnes, Naomi Newton, Triya Nichols, Nathan Vaidyan, and Jhett Whatley, brought the project to life through their hard work and creativity under the supervision of Karina Mussari.

This collaboration is a great example of students taking pride in their school while working together with our supportive parent community.

To stay up to date on the latest information regarding 8th grade promotion and related activities be sure to check out the CMS 8th GradeClass of 2026 Events: March, 8 2026 Update

Join us at Oracle Park to watch the San Francisco Giants and support Christensen Middle School at the same time. For select Monday through Thursday games, families can purchase View Reserve or Bleacher seats for just $15 per ticket. Even better, $5 from every ticket sold goes directly back to CMS.

This is a great opportunity to enjoy a game together while giving back to our school community.

🎟 Tickets are available at: https://www.gofevo.com/group/GiantsschoolfundraisingNG, use promo code: Christensen2026

You can also scan the QR code on the flyer to purchase tickets

We hope to see lots of Cougar families at the ballpark. Go Giants and go Cougars! 🧡🖤

Looking for an easy, fun outing for the whole family? We’ve partnered with Lost Worlds Indoor Entertainment Center for a fundraiser that lets you play and support Christensen Middle School at the same time. 💥 20% OFF WEEKDAYS: Use code CMS20 and receive 20% off weekday activities, and Lost Worlds will give back to CMS.

It’s a great way to plan a family night, celebrate a birthday, or just burn some energy while giving back to our school.

• 📍 6538 Patterson Pass Road
• 🌐 Visit lostworlds.rocks
• 🎟 Enter code CMS20 on weekdays

Have fun while supporting CMS. Thank you for continuing to show up for our students in big and small ways!

We’re excited to share that the Girls Who Code Club is back at Christensen Middle School! In partnership with Lawrence Livermore National Lab (LLNL), this club offers students a fun and supportive environment to explore coding, collaborate with peers, and learn from LLNL mentors.

Meetings will take place every Tuesday after school from 2:45–4:00 PM in Room 404.

Although it’s called Girls Who Code, students of any gender are welcome to join. To participate, students must use their LVJUSD Google account to complete the interest form:

Girls Who Code Interest Form

We can’t wait to see our CMS coders back in action!

Axis Bridge, a program of Axis Community Health, is offering free rapid access to counseling, psychiatry, and connection to care for residents of Livermore, Dublin, and Pleasanton

Axis Bridge Flyer for community.

This community service provides short term counseling for individuals age 5 and up, as well as families, regardless of insurance status.

Services are designed to help prevent the escalation of symptoms and provide guidance in navigating the mental health system, including connections to longer term treatment when needed

Appointments are available via video, telephone, or in person.

Families can call (925) 568-2080, Monday through Thursday from 11am to 7pm, or Friday from 9am to 5pm to learn more or schedule support

Additional non urgent mental health services are also available through Axis Community Health.

Bay Area students in grades K–12 are invited to participate in the 2026 Growing Up in America Art, Essay, and Video Contest, hosted by AACI in partnership with NBC Bay Area. For more than 30 years, this contest has provided students with a platform to share their voices and perspectives.

This year’s theme, Growing Healthy Connections, encourages students to reflect on relationships in their lives, including honest communication, respect for boundaries, appreciation of differences, and self-acceptance.

The submission portal opens March 1, with entries due by March 15 at 11:59 PM PDT. Winners will be announced in May. Prizes include a $1,000 Grand Prize and nine $500 Best in Class awards.

Full contest guidelines and flyers, available in four languages, can be found at aaci.org/gua.

The UC Berkeley chapter of the Society of Women Engineers is hosting a free, one day Tech Conference for female and non binary identifying students in grades 6 through 8 on Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on the UC Berkeley campus.

Tech Day is designed to give students hands on exposure to computer science and technology through interactive hardware and software workshops, engaging STEM and career panels, and opportunities to connect with current UC Berkeley STEM students.

Applications are open now and close on March 29 at 11:59 PM PST.

Learn more: https://swe.berkeley.edu/techday.html
Apply here: https://tinyurl.com/Sp26TechDayApp

Families can also subscribe for updates and future outreach events through UC Berkeley SWE using the links provided on the website.

If you have a student who is curious about technology, engineering, or computer science, this is a great opportunity to explore those interests in an inspiring college setting.

The City of Livermore and the Livermore Public Library invite students and community members to participate in the 10th Annual “Poetry in a Test Tube” Science Poetry Contest. Participants are encouraged to submit a science themed poem on any topic, in any form, and of any length. Entries are open to individuals who live in Livermore or attend school in Livermore.

Students in grades 6 through 8 will compete in their own category, with cash prizes awarded to the top three entries in each division. Submissions are open March 2 through April 1, and each person may submit one poem. Poems should be emailed to Poet_Laureate@LivermoreCA.gov with “2026 Science Poetry Contest” in the subject line.

Winners will be recognized at an Awards Ceremony and Reading on Wednesday, May 20 at 6:30 PM at the Civic Center Library. Students with an interest in science, writing, or creative expression are encouraged to participate.

Alameda County is looking for its next Youth Poet Laureate, and this could be an incredible opportunity for our students who enjoy writing, poetry, or spoken word. Applications open April 1 for teens ages 13–18 who live in Alameda County and are interested in using their voice to inspire others.

Selected students will have the chance to perform at public events, share their work with the community, and represent youth voices across the county. The program also includes exciting opportunities such as mentorship, community projects, and even a suite of Apple products for the selected Laureate.

Students interested in applying will need to submit original poems along with a short personal statement and supporting materials. This is a great opportunity for students to showcase their creativity, build confidence, and make an impact through their writing.

For more information about the 2026 Alameda County Youth Poet Laureate competition, please visit https://aclibrary.org/youth-poet/.

We’re excited to share a great opportunity for students who enjoy problem solving and math.

The 2026 Dublin Math Puzzle Contest for Girls, hosted by Project Noether, is a fun asynchronous competition where participants complete a packet of math problems over a two week period.

Details:

• Open to girls in grades 1 through 6
• Dates: April 18 through May 2, 2026
• Format: Complete a packet of math problems independently
• Cost: Free to participate

This is a great chance for students to challenge themselves, build confidence, and have fun with math.

Sign up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfl7W81FRI-X1OouRFxXphxoZoXyGns18_AIFCpIdjArXLgHQ/viewform

The Christensen Middle School PTA is inviting students to get creative with the Master Peeps Theatre contest. Students can design and build a marshmallow masterpiece using Peeps and submit their creations between March 23 and March 30.

Entries will be judged on March 31 and April 1, with winners announced on April 3. Gift card prizes will be awarded to the top three creations, including a $25 Starbucks gift card for first place, $15 for second place, and $10 for third place.

Put your creativity to work and show us your best Peeps masterpiece.

Several of our current PTA board members are reaching the end of their terms, and we are looking for parents and guardians who may be interested in stepping into leadership roles. Most positions involve a relatively low time commitment and offer a great way to support our school community.

Two Critical positions are: PTA Secretary and Treasurer. These positions are required for the PTA to operate next year. We have a wonderful team and can provide training to ease your transition into one of the positions.

If you are interested in getting a little more details about what is involved, or if you know someone who would be a great fit, please complete the interest and nomination form below. You are welcome to nominate someone else, and we will follow up with them to share more about the role.

PTA 2026–27 Interest and Nomination Form:
https://forms.gle/kZiHN8F4g3uaDXXa7

Thank you for considering supporting CMS and our students through the PTA.

The Reflections program the CMS PTA has been running for the six years. It's a great program that supports the fine arts at CMS. The theme for next year is I Belong and CMS usually starts collecting entries in early November. We can't continue CMS PTA Reflections without your help. The chairperson's job is more behind the scenes and so appreciated. It's also a great way to be more involved in your child's school. If interested, please email cmscougarspta@gmail.com or abauman@lvjusd.org. The current CMS Reflections chair is happy to get you started, but has an exciting 8th grader and cannot continue being a CMS chairperson.

We encourage parents, guardians, school staff and community members to join the CMS PTA. Please go to the Join Andrew Christensen PTA website (https://jointotem.com/ca/livermore/andrew-christensen-pta/join/register).

Show your support for our students by joining the CMS PTA. Our mission is to provide a positive middle school experience for every student and we are committed to putting students first. Members are not required to attend any meetings, but are encouraged to. Only PTA members can vote at the general meetings.

We appreciate your support.

Show your school spirit with new CMS spirit wear while helping raise money for the CMS PTA. Order at www.1stplacespiritwear.com

😎

Email: bscharmann@lvjusd.org
Website: https://www.livermoreschools.org/Domain/101
Location: 5757 Haggin Oaks Avenue, Livermore, CA, USA
Phone: 925-606-4702