Cheyenne Family Newsletter

Please see below for PTO events during this month.

Remember to follow Cheyenne Elementary PTO on Facebook!

Cheyenne is partnering with the Clinton Township Kiwanis this year to help them with the Thanksgiving food baskets they deliver to Macomb County families. All donations can be dropped off in the Sun Dome from November 2-17.

There is no school or SACC for students today. Staff/Teachers will be participating in professional development.

The Chippewa Valley Schools Safety and Improvement Bond Proposition will appear on the Tuesday, November 3, 2026 ballot.

Please see the flyer below for details.

Picture Retake Day is scheduled for November 5. See the flyer and link below for details.

Please see the flyer below for details.

Join us on November 10 at 6:30pm for our 4th and 5th Grade Music Concert! This year's theme, Celebrating America 250, will honor our nation's history and celebrate the music, spirit, and traditions that make America special. We look forward to sharing a wonderful evening of music with our Cheyenne families!

Cheyenne Elementary has a long-standing tradition of honoring the many men and women who have proudly served in our country’s Armed Forces. In addition to our Wall of Honor, which showcases our special Veterans, we would like to invite anyone who has served in the Military or is currently serving in the Military to come to Cheyenne on November 11 at 8:30am for a special tribute - preregistration is required.

We will begin with a coffee and donut reception and then a special “Walk of Honor” in which the Veterans will walk around the school with their favorite Cheyenne Sun (student). This special walk through our school halls and campus will be led by our local Scout Troops and followed by a special concert.

On November 11, students are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue to show support for our Military loved ones, near and far. If a student is a member of a Scout troop, they are encouraged to wear their uniform.

Please see the flyer below for details.

Let's celebrate World Kindness Day by spreading some kindness! The color purple represents The House of Kindness - Nukumori. On November 13, staff and students are encouraged to wear the color purple.

The PTO would like to invite all parents/guardians to our PTO meeting on November 18 at 6:30pm. We hope you can join us as we begin to plan exciting activities and events for our families and kids!

PTO meetings are held, at Cheyenne, in the MPR.

On Tuesday, November 24, students will participate in their House meeting. During the House Meeting, we will celebrate student successes and discuss the Cheyenne Essential 20. Students are encouraged to wear Lions gear and colors to school.

• Altruismo = Black
• Nukumori = Purple
• Sollevare = Yellow
• Protos = Teal

Happy Thanksgiving! There will be no school on November 25, November 26, and November 29.

We appreciate your understanding and help in creating a safe environment for our kids.

At Cheyenne we have worked to improve a number of our communication methods to be more efficient and effective with the delivery of information. Moving forward we will utilize Parent Portal to conduct data verifications and yearly district form collections. Below you will find directions to help you verify student information (emergency contacts, address, etc.) and acknowledge/agree/consent to yearly district forms.

We ask that you please take a few moments to complete these actions within Parent Portal. If you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the main office at Cheyenne.

The CVS Parent Portal allows parents to access important information about their children. Parents of children grades K-12 may access grades, attendance, lunch balance and school messenger settings. Students in grades 6-12 may also access grade and attendance information through their own portal account.

SchoolMessenger is also available for parents to receive updates from CVS schools via phone, email or text message. Parents can set the phones to receive messages and choose the type of messages received through the Parent Portal.

Beginning in December 2023 report cards will only be available in the Parent Portal. Printed copies of reports cards will no longer be sent home with students. However, IEP Progress Notes will still be sent home with students.

Steps to access report cards:

1. Click on Download Reports on the left-hand side of the screen.

2. Click on Standards Report Card.

3. Click on Download Report.

If you need assistance with Parent Portal, School Messenger, or accessing report cards, please do not hesitate to contact the main office.

PaySchools Central is a secure payment system which simplifies school payments in an easy-to-use online portal. This online service provides an easy and efficient method to collect fees and electronic payments for field trips, registrations, t-shirts, and any other school-related fees.

PaySchools Central accepts payments via e-check, debit card or credit card, and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in a safe and secure environment.

The district has developed a process for Criminal Record Checks (background checks). In the past, potential volunteers completed a paper form and submitted it to the main office. The paper form has moved online and has been replaced with a digital form.

In order for potential volunteers to receive the digital form, a request must first be submitted by a staff member. Requests can only be submitted if there is an upcoming activity, event, or special reason a volunteer is needed. Please contact your child's classroom teacher for volunteer opportunities.

Note: volunteers must complete a CRC form every school year; ALL volunteers must have an approved CRC form on file

Items will then be shipped to Cheyenne. Thank you! We appreciate your help!

At Cheyenne, we want every child to learn to read and apply those skills to other subjects and new learning opportunities. The research makes it clear that 95% of students can learn to read, and we are working toward that goal. We are committed to learning the latest research and reading best practices, so every child learns to read. This research is called the Science of Reading, and it clearly defines how the brain learns to read.

In our classrooms, teachers use practices supported by the Science of Reading. To learn more about the research, best practices, and our focus, please review the document below.

If your child is absent, please contact the attendance line at 586-723-5099 to report the absence.

We are excited to announce that our school has implemented a version of the Ron Clark House System to foster a positive and inclusive school culture. This program is designed to promote teamwork, leadership, and a sense of belonging among our students. Each child belongs to one of four houses: ALTRUISMO, NUKUMORI, PROTOS, or SOLLEVARE. Throughout the year, students will participate in activities, earn points for their house, and collaborate with peers across grade levels.

• ALTRUISMO (House of Givers) – Black: This house values generosity and encourages students to uplift others through acts of kindness and service.
• NUKUMORI (House of Kindness) – Purple: Students in this house are encouraged to demonstrate empathy, care, and support for others.
• PROTOS (House of Success) – Teal: Leadership, excellence, and integrity define this house, motivating students to strive for their best in all they do.
• SOLLEVARE (House of Rising Above) – Yellow: This house focuses on encouragement and positivity, inspiring students to lift up others and maintain an optimistic outlook.

Benefits of the House System: The House System provides a unique opportunity for students to develop a strong sense of community and belonging. It promotes school spirit and friendly competition, helping students build connections across grades. The system encourages teamwork, leadership skills, and the development of core values such as respect, kindness, and responsibility. Additionally, it empowers students to take ownership of their school environment and fosters a culture of positive reinforcement.

We look forward to watching our students grow, support one another, and thrive within this system. Thank you for your continued support!

Meal Prices:

• Elementary Lunch: FREE
• Breakfast: FREE
• Additional Serving: $2.00
• Additional Full Meal: $2.75

Food & Nutrition Services is responsible for the preparation and service of Breakfast and/or Lunch to the students at Chippewa Valley Schools.

The Michigan government has funded the school meals for Michigan public school students that are not covered by the Federal reimbursements. This means all students will eat their breakfast and lunch at no cost. Although this is a Michigan initiative, all USDA guidelines and regulations are still in effect. This includes filling out an Education Benefits Form.

The Education Benefits Form helps with student eligibility for school meals, summer EBT qualifications, and it important for other school programs. If the number of applications (forms) decline, funding for some programs can be lost since the overall funding for schools is based on the number of forms turned back into the Food Service Department.

To see if your family qualifies for additional benefits, please fill out a Education Benefits Form at chippewavalley.familyportal.cloud. Applications are good for one school year and should be completed each year unless you are notified that your child qualifies for free/reduced meal benefits for the current school year.

If your student has a food allergy please be aware that CVS Breakfast and Lunch Program foods may contain or have come into contact with peanuts, nuts or other possible allergens.

We take food allergies and student safety very seriously. If your student has any food allergies, please have your physician fill out the Dietary Needs Form below and return it to the food service office. We are happy to work with parents and students to help accommodate your needs.

For questions about food allergies and menu selections please call our office at 586-723-2106.

Many illnesses do not require a child to stay home from school. However, children may be excluded from school if the illness prevents the child from participating comfortably in school activities or if there is risk of spread of harmful disease to others.

This list represents the most common reasons why a child should remain home from school. Please work with your school’s health aide and/or our district nurse if you are uncertain or have questions.

We refer to the state and local health department for guidance on all health-related concerns.

CRITERIA INCLUDES:

• Abdominal Pain: A child with abdominal pain that continues for more than two hours, or intermittent pain associated with fever or other symptoms.
• Diarrhea: A child has two loose bowel movements, even if there are no other signs of illness. The child should have no loose stools for 24 hours prior to returning to school. Exception: A healthcare provider has determined it is not infectious. Diarrhea may occasionally be caused by antibiotics, new foods a child has eaten, or teething. Call the parent to find out if there is a non-medical reason for the loose bowel movements.
• Fever: A child who is feverish (chills, sweating) or has a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. The child should not return until 24 hours of no fever without the use of fever reducing medications. A child with strep throat/scarlet fever should be treated with antibiotics for 12 hours (at least 2 doses) before returning to school.
• Ill appearance: This could include a child that is not himself or herself, lethargic, persistently crying, has difficulty breathing or has a rapidly spreading rash.
• Injury: Whenever an injury is serious enough to need a health care provider’s attention, a parent should be contacted to take the child home.
• Rash: A child with a rash AND a fever or a change in behavior. Any rash illness and fever should be checked by a healthcare provider. There are different rules for returning to school depending on the cause of the rash. Note: Rapidly spreading bruising or small blood spots under the skin need immediate medical attention.
• Skin Sores: A child with weeping sores on an exposed area that cannot be covered with waterproof dressing.
• Vomiting: A child that has vomited two or more times. The child should have no vomiting for 24 hours prior to returning to school. Exception: A healthcare provider has determined it is not infectious.
• Certain Communicable Diseases: Children and staff diagnosed with certain communicable diseases, including COVID-19, may have to be excluded for a certain period.

While not an emergency, children with the following diseases should remain at home until successfully treated: impetigo, lice, ringworm, and scabies. Michigan Head Lice Manual

Specific forms are used district wide and must be properly filled out and returned before any medication can be dispersed to your child during the school day.

The forms can be accessed by using the button below or picked up in the main office at Cheyenne. Please turn in completed forms to the main office at Cheyenne.

The State of Michigan requires students to be age-appropriately vaccinated to enroll in school programs, unless a valid exemption applies. Parents must provide the school with the below vaccinations and/or a valid exemption.

The following vaccinations are required for students entering KD or a young five program.

• 5 doses DTap
• 4 doses Polio
• 3 doses Hepatitis B, or laboratory evidence of immunity
• 2 doses MMR, or laboratory evidence of immunity
• 2 doses Varicella, laboratory evidence of immunity, or disease history from a parent/ physician.

In addition to the above vaccinations, 7th graders are required to have the following vaccinations:

• 1 dose ACWY Meningococcal Conjugate at the age of 11 years old or older
• 1 dose of Tdap at the age of 11 years old or older

Please see the documents below for more detailed information.

At Cheyenne Elementary, the safety and well-being of every student is our top priority. Several students in our school community have food allergies, and we are committed to creating a classroom environment where all students can participate safely.

Birthday Celebrations:

Your child’s birthday is important, and we want to celebrate it at school in a safe way. On your child’s birthday, each student will receive a birthday card from the main office.

If you would like to send a treat for your child’s class, all treats should be non-edible. Food items will not be distributed to classrooms to ensure the safety of all students.

Examples of Non-Edible Birthday Treats:

• Non-edible items for each student in the classroom: key chains, pencils, bookmarks, stickers, etc.
• Items for the classroom in honor of your child’s birthday: board games, recess equipment, etc.
• A book donation to the classroom library in honor of your child

• A birthday card for other students to sign

Suggested Snacks/Lunch:

Each student has the opportunity to enjoy a snack in the classroom and bring a bag lunch to school. We ask families to consider providing snacks and lunches that are free of common food allergens. During lunch, a peanut/tree-nut-free table is available for students with certain food allergies.

Classroom Parties:

During classroom parties, efforts will be made by school staff and volunteers to maintain a safe, inclusive environment for all students. Classroom parties are full of fun activities such as games, crafts, and other celebrations.

To create an environment where all students can participate, classroom parties will no longer include group food items. Students are welcome to bring an individual snack or treat to enjoy during the party, just as they do during daily snack time. These snacks are for your child to eat individually. We ask that families consider providing a snack or treat that is free of common food allergens. In classrooms designated as a “peanut and tree nut alert zone,” peanut and tree nut snacks or treats are not allowed.

Thank you for your understanding and support in keeping our classrooms safe and enjoyable for every child. If you have any questions, please contact the main office.

The School Age Child Care Program strives to provide a safe environment where staff strive to meet the emotional, social, and physical needs of the children. A nurturing environment for all children, with respect for self and others. We are pleased to be part of your family’s childcare experience and look forward to a wonderful school year.

Parents, please note that Chippewa Valley Schools has been experiencing staff shortages in many of our programs. SACC registration is on a first come, first served basis and we enroll students based on our ability to maintain adequate staffing. As staffing levels increase, so will our ability to enroll more students. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Due to limited staff and capacity limits, some registrations may not be approved until adequate staff are available.

Existing families should use current username and password. Please do not create a new account.

Once your registration application is submitted through Eleyo, you must receive the registration approval email before your child may attend.

Registrations will remain pending in the system to be approved as openings become available.

Those families and students that would still like to use a playground are welcome to use the small playground located near Heydenreich.

We appreciate your understanding and help in creating a safe environment for our kids.

Chippewa Valley Schools, in partnership with the community, will provide a safe, inviting and supportive environment that engages students and prepares them to be successful and to contribute in an ever-changing world.

We recognize that we have children and families in our school district that are in need of assistance. To help provide our families with available resources we have created the links below. If you are in need of help and don't know where to turn, please contact your school social worker for more information.

Additional Food Assistance Programs:

• Macomb Community Food Resources
• https://www.uwstclair.org/Food
• https://pantrynet.org/mobile-distribution-events/
• https://www.forgottenharvest.org/find-food/
• https://mi211.org/food-assistance

Holiday Assistance:

We partner with several community agencies to help families in need for the holiday season. While it seems early, most community agencies are already planning Thanksgiving and Christmas support with application deadlines closing in mid-October.

If your family needs assistance for the upcoming holiday season, please contact Ms. Slone, School Social Worker, at kslone@cvs.k12.mi.us

Email: alewis01@cvs.k12.mi.us
Website: https://www.chippewavalleyschools.org
Location: 47600 Heydenreich Road, Macomb, MI 48044, USA
Phone: 586-723-5000