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CMS Cougar Communication

3/1/2026

CMS CougarCommunication3/1/2026

Message from Principal Scharmann Message from Principal Scharmann

Dear Students, Parents, and Families,


Tomorrow marks the start of our third trimester. It is hard to believe how quickly this year is moving. The weather has started to warm up, the days are getting longer, and we are officially entering the final stretch of the school year.


This is an important time for students to "lock in". Grades reset with the new trimester, which gives every student a fresh opportunity to finish the year strong. We are encouraging all students to stay focused, attend school consistently, complete assignments on time, and take advantage of extra help when needed.


Spring brings energy and excitement, but it is also a time to stay disciplined and goal oriented. We are proud of the hard work our students have shown so far and are looking forward to a strong finish to the year.


Thank you for your continued support and partnership.,



Brian Scharmann (he/him)
Principal
Christensen Middle School

Message from Counselor, Ms Allen Message from Counselor, Ms Allen

Hi Parents!


As a junior high social/emotional counselor, I often see how deeply our students are shaped by the messages they receive at home. Late childhood and early adolescence is a time of rapid change — socially, emotionally, and physically — and self-esteem can fluctuate from day to day. The good news is that parents play a powerful role in strengthening their child’s confidence.

Here are a few simple but meaningful ways to support healthy self-esteem at home:


Focus on effort, not just outcomes.
Praise perseverance, problem-solving, and growth rather than grades or wins. When students learn that effort matters, they become more resilient and willing to try new challenges.


Encourage independence.
Allow your child to make age-appropriate choices and take on responsibilities. Confidence grows when students see that they are capable.


Normalize mistakes.
Middle schoolers can be especially hard on themselves. Remind your child that mistakes are part of learning. Share your own experiences with overcoming setbacks.


Listen more than you fix.
When your child shares a concern, start by listening and validating their feelings. Feeling heard builds emotional security and trust.


Model self-confidence.
Children watch how adults handle stress, setbacks, and self-talk. Demonstrating self-compassion and positive coping skills teaches them to do the same.


Small, consistent messages of encouragement at home can make a lasting impact. As always, if you have any concerns about your child, please don't hesitate to reach out.


Dawn Allen, Counselor

Message from Athletic Director, Mr. Moore Message from Athletic Director, Mr. Moore

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.

CMS Career Day, Volunteers Needed CMS Career Day, Volunteers Needed

CMS is hosting Career Day on Friday, March 20, and we are looking for community members willing to share their careers with our students.


Event Details:

  • Student sessions: approximately 1:15–2:30 PM
  • Calendar window (for setup/cleanup): 12:30–3:00 PM
  • Format: Two 30-minute sessions with a short passing period in between


    Presenters may choose the format that works best for them—presentation, Q&A, interactive activity, demonstration, or informal conversation. Students are especially excited about opportunities to ask questions and engage in hands-on experiences.


    If you—or someone you know—might be interested, please have them email Vice Principal Lauren Shiffrin Chi at Lshiffrinchi@lvjusd.org and include:

    • Confirmation of availability on March 20
    • Preferred format
    • Any scheduling constraints
    • How they’d like to engage with students


      We appreciate you helping us spread the word and connect with potential volunteers!

      Message from Yearbook Teacher, Ms. Mills Message from Yearbook Teacher, Ms. Mills

      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 have an 8th grade student this year and would like to order an 8th grade dedication ad for $5 use the same website and school code. Scroll to the bottom and it will say start your ad. The deadline for 8th grade dedications is March 30th.


      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.

      Breakfast and Lunch Menus

      Save The Date Save The Date

      2025-2026 LVJUSD Calendar

      National School Social Work Week, 3/2-3/6

      National School Social Work Week, March 2 through March 6, is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the incredible impact of school social workers across the country.


      At CMS, we are especially grateful for our Child Welfare and Attendance Worker, Marlene Morales. Marlene works tirelessly behind the scenes to support students and families, remove barriers to learning, and ensure that every child has access to the resources they need to thrive. Whether she is partnering with families, connecting students to services, supporting attendance, or collaborating with staff, Marlene brings compassion, professionalism, and a deep commitment to our school community.


      We are thankful for the care and dedication she shows our students each and every day. Please join us in celebrating and thanking Marlene during National School Social Work Week!

      National School Breakfast Week, 3/2-3/6

      Child Nutrition is excited to announce that National School Breakfast Week is coming fast! Happening March 2nd- March 6th, we have a fun promotional menu planned that is packed with new and special items that students are sure to love. As a reminder, breakfast is free to all students, so make sure to arrive before the bell from March 2nd through March 6th to grab school breakfast during this special week.

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      CMS School Site Council Meeting, Tuesday 3/3

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


      Join us at this link: Google Meet, and you can preview the 3/3/2026 Site Council Agenda.

      Livermore Learns: Parenting in the Age of Screens, Wednesday 3/4

      Join us next Wednesday, March 4, from 7-8 pm for a webinar facilitated by Kaiser Permanente psychology doctoral interns. This session will help parents better understand current trends in device use among youth, negative impacts of device use, warning signs that screen use may be becoming problematic, and important online safety considerations. Parents will also learn practical strategies for setting healthy boundaries at home
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      Early Release Days, 3/10-3/13

      Tuesday, March 10, through Friday, March 13, are early dismissal days for CMS students. Zero period classes will meet at their regular time at 7:30 a.m. The 1:31p.m. dismissal time is for all students.


      On these early release days, afterschool groups will not meet and the Library will be closed after school. Please plan for your student to exit the CMS campus at 1:31.


      Teachers will attend middle school planning meetings after the 1:31 dismissal time.

      Kudos to Custodian Day, Wednesday 3/11

      On March 11, we celebrate Kudos to Custodian Day and recognize the outstanding work of our custodial team.


      George, Pablo, and Angel play an essential role in keeping CMS clean, safe, and ready for learning each and every day. From early mornings to late afternoons, they work behind the scenes to maintain our classrooms, common areas, and campus grounds with pride and care. Their attention to detail and commitment to our school ensure that students and staff have a welcoming and well maintained environment.



      We are incredibly grateful for George, Pablo, and Angel and the dedication they bring to our campus. Please join us in thanking them on March 11 for all they do to support our CMS community.

      CMS Dine Out Fundraiser at Pizza Guys, Wednesday 3/11

      Give back to Christensen Middle School and enjoy a great meal while you are at it. Help raise funds for the Christensen Middle School AVID program when you order from Pizza Guys on Wednesday March 11, 2026. CMS will receive 20 percent of the proceeds from all fundraiser orders.


      No flyer is needed at the time of purchase. Just mention “CMS fundraiser” when ordering in person or include it in the comments of your online order.

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      Yard Duty Supervisor Appreciation Day, Thursday 3/19

      On March 19, we celebrate Yard Duty Supervisor Appreciation Day and recognize the incredible team members who help keep our campus safe, welcoming, and running smoothly each day.


      Arelis, Catherine, Debbie, Traven, Gregory, Taylor, and Aimee serve as steady, positive presences for our students before school, during breaks, and throughout lunch. They build meaningful relationships, help resolve conflicts, reinforce school expectations, and ensure our campus remains a safe and supportive environment for everyone.


      Their work may happen outside the classroom, but it plays a critical role in shaping the positive culture we value at CMS. We are deeply grateful for their dedication, attentiveness, and care for our students each and every day.



      Please join us in thanking our outstanding Yard Duty Supervisors on March 19 for all they do to support our school community.

      CMS Talent Show, Thursday 3/19

      Join us for an evening of talent, energy, and entertainment at the Christensen Middle School Talent Show!

      • 📅 Date: Thursday, March 19
      • 🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
      • 📍Location: CMS MPR


      Come support your fellow students as they take the stage to sing, dance, act, and showcase their unique talents. It’s going to be a night to remember!


      Popcorn, snacks, and drinks will be available for purchase—students are encouraged to bring small denomination cash if they’d like to buy refreshments.


      We can’t wait to see you there!

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      CMS PTA Dine Out at Melo's Pizza and Pasta, Thursday 3/19

      Make dinner easy and support our school at the same time. Join us for a CMS PTA Dine Out at Melo’s Pizza and Pasta on Thursday March 19th from 11:00AM to 9:00PM at 4433 First Street.


      Bring your family and friends and enjoy a great meal while giving back to our school community. A portion of proceeds from the day will support PTA programs and activities that benefit CMS students.


      We hope to see many Cougar families there for a fun and delicious way to support our school.

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      CMS 2026 Spring Picture Day, Wednesday 3/25

      Dorian Studio photographers will be at CMS on Wednesday, March 25. Spring Picture Day information can be found on the CMS website or visit the Dorian Studio website for ordering information. The ordering window opens on March 4, 2026. Core teachers will distribute picture day flyers/envelopes during the week of March 16.


      Only students with a completed prepaid picture day envelope or an online order receipt will have their individual photo taken during PE to minimize class disruption.


      Photos taken on Spring Picture Day will not appear in the CMS yearbook.


      Dorian Spring Picture Day Ordering Flyer

      Dorian Spring Picture Day Information Flyer

      Dinner That Gives Back, CMS at Dave’s Hot Chicken Night, Wednesday 3/25

      Skip cooking and support the Christensen Middle School Library at the same time. Join us at Dave’s Hot Chicken on Wednesday, March 25, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM for a CMS fundraiser night. Dave’s will donate 20 percent of all food and beverage sales back to our school.


      Order in person and scan the fundraiser code at the register, or order online through the Dave’s app or website using the code GIVE. Every meal helps support our students and programs, so bring a friend and make it a CMS dinner night.

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      Visual Supports at Home: Evidence Based Strategies for Families, Tuesday 3/31

      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.

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      Explore Careers in Health Care at the Black Men in White Coats Youth Summit, Saturday 4/11

      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.

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      ELAC Meeting, Tuesday 4/28

      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.

      Free All Abilities Day Event, Wednesday 5/13

      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.

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      2026-2027 LVJUSD Calendar

      Have You Heard the Good News? Have You Heard the Good News?

      Students of the Week, Week of 2/16

      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 - Keyla Monroy
      • 7th grader - Emma Patterson

      • 8th grader - Vagmi Potnuru


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

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      Students of the Week, Week of 2/23

      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 - Miranda Eng
      • 7th grader - Jhett Whatley

      • 8th grader - Addison Antonio


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

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      AVID Field Trip to San Francisco

      On Thursday, 2/19, our AVID students traveled to San Francisco for an exciting day of college and career exploration. The group visited San Francisco State University, where students had the opportunity to experience a college campus firsthand, learn about admissions and academic programs, and begin envisioning themselves in a university setting. Experiences like this help make college feel real, reachable, and possible.


      After the campus visit, students headed to the Exploratorium at Piers 15 and 17, where they engaged in hands on science, engineering, and design exhibits. From interactive physics demonstrations to creative problem solving challenges, students were able to connect classroom learning to real world applications in a dynamic and engaging environment.


      We are proud of how our AVID students represented Christensen Middle School throughout the day. Thank you to our AVID team and chaperones for making this meaningful learning experience possible.

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      CMS MathCounts Competes at Diablo Regional Competition

      Our CMS MathCounts Club participated in the Diablo Regional Competition on Saturday, February 21, as part of the national MathCounts program. We brought two teams to compete against some of the strongest middle school mathematicians in the region.


      Students engaged in nearly five hours of rigorous problem solving, including individual rounds, team rounds, and speed based competitions. While we did not place this year, several of our students improved their scores from the Livermore Chapter Competition, a strong indicator of growth, resilience, and commitment.


      Most importantly, our students represented CMS and Livermore with professionalism, focus, and determination. Competing at the regional level requires both mathematical skill and stamina, and I am incredibly proud of their willingness to challenge themselves in such a demanding academic setting.

      Congratulations to our CMS competitors: Vivann Burman, Nishant Sahoo, Arjun Gowardhan, Matthew Seong, Arav Porwal, Avyan Chethan, Alexandria Esen, and Anand Sagar.


      We look forward to continuing to strengthen our program and build toward an even stronger showing next year.

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      Park Rangers Visit CMS Science Classrooms

      Park Rangers from the East Bay Regional Park District visited our science classrooms last Wednesday to lead an engaging, hands-on learning experience. Students had the opportunity to explore, observe, and dissect a variety of native plant species found throughout the East Bay.


      During the lesson, students examined plant structures up close, identified key features, and discussed how native plants are uniquely adapted to our local climate and environment. The interactive format allowed students to ask questions, make observations, and connect their classroom learning to the natural spaces many of them visit with their families.


      It was a fantastic opportunity to bring real-world science into the classroom and deepen students’ understanding of the ecosystems right here in our own community.

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      Staff Spotlight

      For our new STAFF SPOTLIGHT, we are shining the light on the fabulous Mrs. Garner. Mrs. Garner has been a part of the CMS community for the last two years teaching science and AVID. If she is not planning a trip to Disney, you can find her enjoying the many beautiful trails we have here in town. Mrs. Garner loves the ocean and the critters that live in it so she would be a Marine Biologist if she didn’t become a teacher. If you want to follow the advice she would give to her middle school self, “Don’t sweat the small stuff.”

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      Helpful Information From CMS Helpful Information From CMS

      CMS 8th Grade Class of 2026 Events

      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: February, 8 2026 Update

      P.E. Clothes

      A P.E. uniform is required. All students are expected to have a gray t-shirt and royal blue shorts or purchase the Christensen P.E. attire at a very reasonable cost. (A gray t-shirt, royal blue shorts, gray sweatshirt, and gray sweatpants without logos are also acceptable.) Athletic shoes with white/light soles are also required.


      T-shirts - $10.00 (Youth Large, Adult S-XXL) Shorts - $10.00 (Youth XL, Adult S-XXL)

      To purchase any or all of the above items online, please visit the Christensen Middle School Web Store by clicking on the shopping cart icon https://christensen.livermoreschools.org/. To pick up your prepaid merchandise, please bring a copy of your receipt to the CMS front office.


      Please write your child’s last name across the back of their P.E. shirt and on the nametag on the front of their shorts. No other writing is permitted on the clothes students wear in P.E.

      Support the CMS Library: Titlewish Fundraiser, 3/2-3/16

      Christensen Middle School is hosting our annual Follett Titlewish online fundraiser from March 2 through March 16. One hundred percent of the funds raised will go directly toward purchasing new books for our CMS Library.


      Our goal is to raise $2,500 to purchase books identified by students to help fill gaps in our collection and add new titles they are excited to read. The proceeds from this campaign will go immediately toward materials students can enjoy this school year. This is our only library fundraiser of the year, and your support will make a lasting impact on our CMS community.


      To donate and help us reach our goal, please visit: https://www.titlewish.com/1096813


      Thank you for supporting our students and helping us keep Cougar readers engaged and inspired!

      ⚾ Support CMS and Cheer on the Giants! ⚾

      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! 🧡🖤

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      🎉 Family Fun That Gives Back to CMS! 🎉

      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!

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      Girls Who Code Club Returns to CMS!

      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, beginning Tuesday, January 6, 2026.


      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!

      Helpful Information From LVJUSD Helpful Information From LVJUSD

      Clarifying and Strengthening Special Education Supports Across LVJUSD

      Our District has been working to clearly define our Special Education programs and establish a more consistent TK–12+ continuum of services. This work strengthens transitions between grade levels and ensures students have clear, well-defined pathways of support across schools. The alignment plan was developed to provide parents, guardians, students, and staff with a shared understanding and clearer descriptions of our programs. It is intended to clarify and strengthen our continuum of services for students with an IEP and does not eliminate supports for students. As part of this effort, we will share our detailed alignment plan and program descriptions in an upcoming parent newsletter and post additional information on the District website before the end of the school year to keep families informed. LVJUSD Special Education Webpage Link

      Spring is Eggselent

      🥪🥚

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      Axis Bridge: Free Mental Health Support for Tri-Valley Families

      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.

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      Alameda County Student Transit Clipper Card Program

      The Student Transit Pass Program provides FREE Youth Clipper Cards to eligible middle and high school students. The Youth Clipper card provides unlimited free rides on LAVTA/Wheels. Students can add cash value to the Clipper card for 50% off BART fares and youth discounts on other transit systems that use Clipper. The pass makes it easier for students to travel to and from school.

      All students attending middle and high schools in the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District are eligible to receive a free Clipper card good for unlimited rides on Wheels and Rapid buses during the 2025-2026 school year.


      The Student Transit Pass Clipper Card CMS students received this year or in past years is valid through the student’s high school graduation date if the student remains enrolled in a participating Alameda County school and is under the age of 19.


      New Christensen students should complete the online application for a Youth Clipper Card at https://stpp.formstack.com/forms/lvjusd_christensen. All fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required including Parent or Guardian Signature. The office will verify the information submitted online and on the printed applications received in the office.


      When CMS receives the youth clipper cards, the office will contact the students regarding the distribution of the cards.

      Rotary Music Scholarships for Student Musicians

      Students who love music have a great opportunity to earn financial support for their musical growth. The Rotary Club of Livermore is offering 2025 Music Scholarships for Livermore middle and high school students.


      Several scholarships from 100 to 500 dollars will be awarded, and one outstanding high school senior may receive up to 1000 dollars. Students apply by submitting an application, a teacher evaluation, and optionally a short recording.


      The application deadline is March 7, 2025, with awards announced by April 10 and a recognition ceremony on April 23. This year's application is available here: https://www.livermore-rotary.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Rotary-Music-Scholarship-Application-2025.pdf.


      If your student is passionate about music and considering it as part of their future, this is a wonderful opportunity to apply. Contact the CMS office if you would like a copy of the application or support getting started

      UC Berkeley SWE Tech Day for Middle School Students

      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.

      🎨 Livermore Public Library Teen Art Exposition 2026 🎨

      The Livermore Public Library is excited to host the 2026 Teen Art Exposition Show this April, offering local middle and high school students a wonderful opportunity to showcase their creativity with the community. This year’s theme is Adventure.


      Students in grades 6 through 12 who live in or attend school in Livermore are invited to submit one original 2 D artwork in one of the following categories: painting, drawing, photography, or mixed media. Entries will be accepted at the Civic Center Library, 1188 S. Livermore Ave., from 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026, through 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 22, 2026.


      Artwork will be judged in two grade bands, grades 6 to 8 and grades 9 to 12. Ribbons will be awarded for Best of Show in each level, along with first, second, and third place in each category.


      Selected artwork will be displayed in the Civic Center Library Art Gallery from April 1 through April 30, 2026. An art reception will be held on Monday, April 13 at 7:00 p.m. in the Civic Center Library Community Room. Artists and community members are invited to attend. Light refreshments will be served, and teen artists present will have the opportunity to win raffle prizes.


      All artwork must be properly framed or matted with an acceptable hanging system. For complete submission guidelines and entry forms, please visit library.livermoreca.gov or view details at https://bit.ly/LPL-TeenArtExpo.

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      Calling Local Artists and Students: Spring Art Opportunities

      Two exciting community art opportunities are now open through the Livermore Art Association.

      • Spring Awakenings is a call for art in collaboration with the Livermore-Amador Symphony. Artists of all ages and experience levels are invited to submit original work inspired by music and the theme of renewal. Selected pieces will be featured in connection with a live symphony concert on April 11, 2026, at 7:30 PM at the Bankhead Theater. The deadline to enter is February 16, 2026. Learn more and submit at www.livermoreartassociation.org/spring-awakenings-2026.
      • Light of the West is part of the Livermore Reads Together 2026 program and invites artists to explore themes of discovery, resilience, mystery, and illumination in the American West, inspired by the community-chosen book Silver Lies by Ann Parker. Artwork will be exhibited at the Livermore Public Library March 1–31, 2026. The entry deadline is February 24, 2026. Details and entry information are available at www.livermoreartassociation.org/livermore-reads-2026.


      Both opportunities are open to community artists and students. Visit the Livermore Art Association website for full guidelines, entry forms, and exhibition details.

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      Growing Up in America Student Contest Opportunity

      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.

      CMS PTA CMS PTA

      CMS PTA needs your help for the 2026–27 school year!

      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.

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      Keep CMS PTA Reflections Alive – We Need You!

      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.

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      Christensen Middle School PTA See’s Candies Fundraiser, Support CMS with a Sweet Treat

      Support our school and treat yourself at the same time. The Christensen Middle School PTA is partnering with See's Candies for a sweet fundraiser, and ordering is open now through March 20.


      Families can place orders online using the fundraiser link or by scanning the QR code on the flyer or going to: https://www.yumraising.com/store/spring-2026-christensen-pta-spring-fundraiser-4653/DiaBar72919. Every purchase helps support programs and opportunities for students at Christensen Middle School.


      Thank you for supporting our school community and sharing a little sweetness along the way.

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      Join the CMS PTA!

      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.

      CMS PTA Spirit Wear Fundraiser

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

      CMS PTA Socials

      😎

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      Christensen Middle School

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

      Brian Scharmann
      Brian is using Smore to create beautiful newsletters
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