Clay Academy Bulldog Bulletin
October & November 2025
Dear Clay Academy Families,
As the final days of late October turn toward the thoughtful, thankful days of November, our school community continues to be an exciting place of learning and growth! We hope you all are energized for the fun of Halloween and are now ready to embrace the warmth and reflection this next month brings.
Conference Follow-Up
Thank you to all the families who took the time to participate in our Parent-Teacher Conferences in October! These meetings are crucial—they allow us to connect on your student's progress and reflect on the best ways to support their individual needs. If you weren't able to attend, or if you have any follow-up questions from your meeting, please don't hesitate to reach out to your child's teacher. Our partnership is the foundation of student success, and we encourage open communication throughout the year.
Healthy Habits for a Strong Finish
As the holidays and colder weather approach, it’s especially important to focus on healthy choices to keep our bodies and minds strong. Good nutrition is fundamental for successful learning. Students who eat balanced meals, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, have better concentration and energy throughout the school day. We also strongly encourage healthy sleep routines. Getting enough rest is crucial for processing information learned in class and boosting the immune system to fight off seasonal colds. Please help us by ensuring your child has a consistent, early bedtime.
Wishing you all a healthy and enjoyable fall!
Warmly,
Dr. Dan Palombit
Principal
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS
In Elementary art, we have been working on our drawing skills, along with learning how to create artwork with watercolors. We have been working on our fall bear projects, along with our starlight pumpkin projects, which incorporate chalk with tempura painting techniques. We have just started with working with clay and are in the process of making Jack O’ Lanterns.
We’ve had a great start to fall in Room 4! Our class has been busy learning about nouns and adjectives in writing, and practicing single- and double-digit addition and subtraction in math. The students are working hard each day and showing great progress as we are getting settled in the school year. As we head into October, we’re excited for all the fun seasonal activities ahead—including celebrating Halloween together! 🎃 In November, we’ll dive into learning about adverbs and enjoy some festive fall crafts and Thanksgiving fun. 🍁- Mrs. M
In Room 5, we have been working hard and making great progress! In math, we’re learning all about multiplication and division, and students are practicing using our resources to help us when we are struggling. In reading, we’re focusing on characteristics of characters and how to compare and contrast them in the same stories and across different stories. We’re also looking forward to some fun fall-themed activities coming up soon! - Miss Price
In Ms. McCutcheon’s class, students have been learning all about traits. We have compared common traits of students and teachers in the room (cleft vs. no cleft chin, dimples vs. no dimples, curved vs. straight thumbs, and so on) and have discussed how plants and animals also have traits that they pass on to their offspring. At no point will we discuss how traits are passed on, only that they are passed from parents to offspring in the DNA. We will continue to dive into dominant and recessive genes and how genes determine phenotypes and genotypes. We will end the unit by creating models of heredity using “eggies,” monsters, and designer dogs. Our next unit will be about biomes and animal adaptations within those biomes.
In Ms. Price’s class, students have finished the maps and measuring unit. We have started learning about matter and its physical properties. We will begin learning about how to measure matter by volume and mass. We will discuss the different states of matter and how matter can be changed. We will complete the unit by discovering which materials have insulating properties and how we can use those materials to build a structure to keep ice from melting.
In Ms. Heberly’s class, we finished our units for the water cycle and learning to play with peers. Students learned about appropriate ways to share items and how to wait their turn using blocks and fun games. We have begun a new unit on working together, where students will be participating in making butter.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL WELLNESS
Mr. Arndt, Physical Education Teacher
In PE we have been working on our soccer unit. The students have been working on the basic soccer skills needed for this unit. The students first worked on passing and kicking the ball. The students would pass the ball to each other and every time they would pass it they would have to take a step back and we made it into a contest. The next skill that we worked on was dribbling. The students would have to weave through cones to work on their dribbling skills. After that the students did a relay race down and back weaving through the cones to see how fast they could dribble the ball. To end the unit, students used the skills they learned to play an actual soccer game. The next unit that we are going to do is a wiffle ball and kickball unit.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SOCIAL WORKER UPDATE
Mrs. Adams, School Social Worker
Red Ribbon Week!
October 27 - October 31, 2025
The purpose of Red Ribbon Week is to promote a healthy drug-free lifestyle in our community. The color Red and the Red Ribbon have been a symbol of this national campaign since it officially began in 1988. The Red Ribbon is a symbol of support for Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent Enrique (KiKi) Camarena. Agent Camarena was killed in 1985 while trying to stop drug traffickers in Guadalajara, Mexico. In 1988, the U.S. Congress proclaimed the first Red Ribbon Week in support of Agent Camarena and the cause he gave his life for combating drugs.
Students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their healthy drug-free pledge by participating in various school activities throughout the week. Below is a list of scheduled themes for the week:
Monday 10/27: “It’s up to me to be drug free”
-Wear Red
Tuesday 10/28: ¨Our School's True Colors: Purple and Gray
Against Drugs Today!¨
-Wear Purple and Gray
Wednesday 10/29: “We are teaming up against drugs¨
-Wear favorite sports team attire
Thursday 10/30: “Give drugs the slip”
-Wear favorite PJs or slippers
Friday 10/31: “Say Boo to drugs”
-Wear Black and Orange
Thank you for helping us create a healthy, drug-free future for the students at Clay Academy. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at (815) 337-2529.
Resource update:
Rosecrance has expanded its walk-in capabilities and can see any youth from:
Monday-Friday 8:30am-3:00pm
at their 620 Dakota Street location.
No appointments needed. See attached flier.
*Please note: these walk-in services are for youth and adults
Also, quick reminders:
MCHelp App which is available for students/families and educators to access via texting options with professionals and access our McHenry County directory of resources.
Diesel, Clay Academy's Therapy Dog
STEM class students looking for seeds
MIDDLE SCHOOL CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS
In Middle School art, we learned about Romero Britto and finished our drawing and coloring Cat Projects. These were very vibrant; the students really took their time and they turned out great. We have recently been working with clay and are creating Jack O’ Lanterns using various tools and clay-making techniques. We have just started working on our Starlight pumpkins, which incorporate chalk and tempera painting techniques.
We're delighted to share that our students are making excellent progress in both Math and Reading! They are actively engaged in both whole-group and individualized skill lessons, consistently utilizing our district-provided resources, including Go Math, Discovery Math, Read180, and Collections.
It's hard to believe the holiday season is already just around the corner! Throughout the next few months, we have a wonderful variety of engaging activities planned. Students will participate in fun, festive lessons that weave together math, reading, social studies, and good old-fashioned fun, all inspired by the upcoming holidays.
Challenger Center field trip is coming up! We will be going on Friday, November 14th. This is an all day field trip. Students that are attending will need a sack lunch that day. Keep your eye out for more communication in the coming weeks!
MIDDLE SCHOOL WELLNESS
Mr. Arndt and Mr. Tschappat, Physical Education Teachers
For middle school physical education we did our soccer unit. The students first started out with some skills-based activities like passing and dribbling. The students would pass the ball to each other and then we would do a little contest to see how accurately they could pass from a farther distance. The next skill that we worked on was dribbling. The students would have to weave through cones to work on their dribbling skills. After that the students did a relay race down and back weaving through the cones to see how fast they could dribble the ball. To end the unit, students used the skills they learned to play an actual soccer game. The next unit that we are going to do is a wiffle ball and kickball unit.
MIDDLE SCHOOL COUNSELOR UPDATE
Ms. Sarich, School Counselor
Red Ribbon Week!
October 27 - October 31, 2025
The purpose of Red Ribbon Week is to promote a healthy drug-free lifestyle in our community. The color Red and the Red Ribbon have been a symbol of this national campaign since it officially began in 1988. The Red Ribbon is a symbol of support for Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent Enrique (KiKi) Camarena. Agent Camarena was killed in 1985 while trying to stop drug traffickers in Guadalajara, Mexico. In 1988, the U.S. Congress proclaimed the first Red Ribbon Week in support of Agent Camarena and the cause he gave his life for combating drugs.
Students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their healthy drug-free pledge by participating in various school activities throughout the week. Below is a list of scheduled themes for the week:
Monday 10/27: “It’s up to me to be drug free”
-Wear Red
Tuesday 10/28: ¨Our School's True Colors: Purple and Gray
Against Drugs Today!¨
-Wear Purple and Gray
Wednesday 10/29: “We are teaming up against drugs¨
-Wear favorite sports team attire
Thursday 10/30: “Give drugs the slip”
-Wear favorite PJs or slippers
Friday 10/31: “Say Boo to drugs”
-Wear Black and Orange
Thank you for helping us create a healthy, drug-free future for the students at Clay Academy. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at (815) 337-2529.
Resource update:
Rosecrance has expanded its walk-in capabilities and can see any youth from:
Monday-Friday 8:30am-3:00pm
at their 620 Dakota Street location.
No appointments needed. See attached flier.
*Please note: these walk-in services are for youth and adults
Also, quick reminders:
MCHelp App which is available for students/families and educators to access via texting options with professionals and access our McHenry County directory of resources.
HIGH SCHOOL CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS
BIOLOGY and ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Our Biology and Environmental Science students have been busy exploring science through hands-on and interactive learning this month! We’ve introduced Gemini, a dynamic online platform that allows students to conduct virtual labs—from examining cellular processes to modeling environmental systems—right from their Chromebooks. This tool gives students the opportunity to test hypotheses, collect data, and analyze results in a safe, realistic digital environment. In addition, each student has created an interactive digital notebook, which serves as both their learning journal and portfolio. These notebooks include lab notes, diagrams, reflections, and digital resources that help connect key concepts across our units. As we move forward, we’ll continue focusing on scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and environmental awareness through real-world connections.
PRE-VOCATIONS
Students have been working on career exploration, finding a job by using job boards and Linkedin. We are currently working on resumes and cover letters. We’ve watched videos on who we would hire for a specific job as well
ENGLISH
We continue to read the same novels: It’s Kind of a Funny Story and Simon vs. The Homo Sapien Agenda. The plot thickens in both books….ask your student to keep you up to speed!!
WORLD HISTORY
We're embarking on a fascinating journey to Ancient Greece, the birthplace of democracy and Western philosophy. Get ready to explore the unique city-states like Athens and Sparta, examining their contrasting governments, cultures, and ways of life. We'll delve into the intellectual golden age, studying the groundbreaking ideas of philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. You'll also learn about the epic battles, the magnificent architecture (hello, Parthenon!), and the enduring legacy of Greek mythology. Understanding the Greeks is crucial, as their innovations continue to influence modern politics, art, and science. Prepare to be inspired by the wisdom and achievements of this extraordinary civilization!
US HISTORY
We are now bridging the gap between the original settlements and the birth of our nation. Our focus will be on the vital period between colonization and the Revolutionary War. We'll examine the growth of the thirteen colonies, analyzing their distinct regional economies and social structures, from Puritan New England to the agrarian South. We will also trace the escalating tensions between the colonists and Great Britain, focusing on key events like the French and Indian War and the rise of Enlightenment ideals. Understanding this era is crucial, as it reveals how a collection of scattered colonies developed a unified identity and a commitment to liberty. Get ready to explore the origins of American independence!
GEOGRAPHY
Our first units will explore the fundamentals of physical and human geography, from the powerful forces that shape our landscapes to the cultural and political patterns of human civilization. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for the unique characteristics of different places and the incredible diversity of our planet. This is more than just memorizing capitals—it's about understanding how the world works.
ART
In High school Art, we learned about Romero Britto and pop art, and painted Coke bottles inspired by his work. We learned about Surrealism and used two scratchboards to complete our project. We just started our Tim Burton-inspired selfie project, and they are turning out great.
PHOTOGRAPHY
In High School Photography, we learned how to use the Mask tool to create a season word. Students have just finished their abstract and color photos and did an amazing job. We learned about macro photography and are finishing our ugly-to-beautiful projects this week. We will be moving on to our forensic photography lessons this month.
HIGH SCHOOL WELLNESS
Mr. Arndt and Mr. Tschappat, Physical Education and Health Teachers
High school PE will be moving into Flag Football. The students will learn skills like passing and catching. The students also learned the rules of the game including offside, pass interference, and unsportsmanlike conduct.
High School Counselor
Mrs. Kraneman, School Counselor
Red Ribbon Week!
October 27 - October 31, 2025
The purpose of Red Ribbon Week is to promote a healthy drug-free lifestyle in our community. The color Red and the Red Ribbon have been a symbol of this national campaign since it officially began in 1988. The Red Ribbon is a symbol of support for Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent Enrique (KiKi) Camarena. Agent Camarena was killed in 1985 while trying to stop drug traffickers in Guadalajara, Mexico. In 1988, the U.S. Congress proclaimed the first Red Ribbon Week in support of Agent Camarena and the cause he gave his life for combating drugs.
Students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their healthy drug-free pledge by participating in various school activities throughout the week. Below is a list of scheduled themes for the week:
Monday 10/27: “It’s up to me to be drug free”
-Wear Red
Tuesday 10/28: ¨Our School's True Colors: Purple and Gray
Against Drugs Today!¨
-Wear Purple and Gray
Wednesday 10/29: “We are teaming up against drugs¨
-Wear favorite sports team attire
Thursday 10/30: “Give drugs the slip”
-Wear favorite PJs or slippers
Friday 10/31: “Say Boo to drugs”
-Wear Black and Orange
Thank you for helping us create a healthy, drug-free future for the students at Clay Academy. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at (815) 337-2529.
Resource update:
Rosecrance has expanded its walk-in capabilities and can see any youth from:
Monday-Friday 8:30am-3:00pm
at their 620 Dakota Street location.
No appointments needed. See attached flier.
*Please note: these walk-in services are for youth and adults
Also, quick reminders:
MCHelp App which is available for students/families and educators to access via texting options with professionals and access our McHenry County directory of resources.
UPCOMING IMPORTANT DATES
- October 31, 2025: Elementary school Trick-or-Treating
- November 5, 2025: Picture Re-Take Day (in morning)
- November 11, 2025: No School; Veterans Day Observance
- November 26, 2025: No School; Thanksgiving Break
- November 27, 2025: No School; Thanksgiving Break
- November 28, 2025: No School; Thanksgiving Break
- December 1, 2025: Classes Resume
- December 19-, 2025: End of Semester 1; Quarter 2; Last day before break
- January 6, 2026: Classes Resume; Start of Semester 2; Quarter 3
HALF DAY / EARLY RELEASE
Clay Academy's next half day/early release is Thursday, January 29, 2026. Dismissal time on a half day/early release is 12:00pm. School starts at the same time on these days. Doors open at 8:00am and the first bell starts at 8:30am.
About Clay Academy
Website: ca.woodstockschools.org
Location: 112 Grove Street, Woodstock, IL, USA
Phone: (815) 337-2529
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clayacademywoodstock