Clemens Crossing Cougar Comments
Volume 48, Issue 4, August 28, 2026
Clemens Crossing Elementary School
Hetal Patel - Assistant Principal
Website: cces.hcpss.org
Location: 10320 Quarterstaff Road, Columbia, MD, USA
Phone: (410) 313-6866
Facebook: facebook.com/ClemensCrossingElementary
X: @hcpss_cces
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Spanish
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Important Dates
Important Upcoming Dates and Events
August
- 28 - 5:30-7:00 - PTA Picnic
September
- 8 - 6:30-7:30 - PK, K, 1st, 2nd Grades Back-to-School Night
- 9 - 6:30-7:00 - Band/Strings Back-to-School Night
- 9 - 7:00-8:00 - PTA Meeting
- 10 - 6:00-6:30 - GT Back-to-School Night
- 10 - 6:30-7:30 - 3rd, 4th, 5th Grades Back-to-School Night
- 14 - PTA Fundraiser at The Charmery
To subscribe to the CCES calendar on your smartphone, electronic device, or email system, use the calendar ID sqspkjkbr6v6arss44js3n21eg@group.calendar.google.com.
HCPSS Calendars
Add the HCPSS online calendar to your mobile/online calendar by following the steps on the HCPSS calendar page.
PLEASE NOTE! The calendar is subject to change. The online calendar reflects the most recent version.
August
HCPSS Calendar
September
HCPSS Calendar
October
HCPSS Calendar
August
Related Arts Color Calendar
September
September
School News
From School Administration
Dear Families,
We were so excited to welcome back our students this week! It was a terrific week!!!
Please ensure that your Family File is updated. This needs to be completed for every student every year. Currently, we have 79% of the forms completed. If you haven't completed the form for your child(ren), please do so ASAP at hcpss.org/connect.
Thank you!
Michelle Leader, Principal
Hetal Patel, Assistant Principal
Arrival and Dismissal Procedures
With nearly 500 students at Clemens Crossing Elementary, it is important to be patient during arrival and dismissal. The carefully planned logistics of arrival and dismissal help us keep our students, staff, parents, and visitors safe. If you are in a non-transportation zone (walker or car rider) it is extremely important to familiarize yourself with our routines for arrival and dismissal.
As adults, we must follow predictable patterns and routines, because children can be unpredictable. Parking in a wrong or illegal place creates unpredictable situations, and those types of situations can put students at risk during arrival and dismissal.
Arrival and dismissal safety is everyone's responsibility. Please review the map below and listen to our staff members who are outside to assist your children when they enter and leave school daily.
NOTE: Please follow the posted signs along Quarterstaff Road. Traffic engineers studied the road and placed signs to help maximize sight lines for drivers. This helps to reduce risks and provide a safe crossing of Quarterstaff Road for walkers who live on the other side of the road.
Do not park along Quarterstaff Road where signs state "No Parking or Standing." Howard County Police will ticket drivers who park or drop-off/pick-up students where no parking signs are posted.
Car Riders - All car riders are dismissed on the parking lot side of the building.
Car riders are expected to be dropped off and picked up in the car loop (school parking lot). We do not allow students to cross the bus parking lot and load into their car along Quarterstaff Road. Please do not tell your children to meet you along Quarterstaff Road.
- During arrival and dismissal, we expect car traffic to enter the car loop from the Martin Road side of Quarterstaff Road (right turn only into the parking lot). Exiting the car loop is a right turn only as well. Please plan your trip accordingly (see information below). Left-hand turns into the car loop are not permitted during arrival and dismissal. Left-hand turning traffic creates back-ups in addition to making it difficult to see blind spots.
- It is suggested that you enter Quarterstaff Road from Martin Road.
- If you do park legally along Quarterstaff Road, your child is considered a walker and will be dismissed with walkers.
Walkers - Walkers who cross Quarterstaff Road must cross the street with the crossing guard.
Please never cross Quarterstaff Road near the car rider traffic. It is unsafe!
It is everyone’s responsibility to be safe during arrivals and dismissals.
Below, you will find a helpful graphic for arrival and dismissal.
Please Complete Family File Information
Each year, families update/complete their child's Family File with all emergency information. Please complete this info ASAP so that we have this information prior to school starting. This is required EACH year. We appreciate your assistance! Anyone who has it completed by Wednesday, August 19th will be able to access their child's teacher information later that day.
Information and Application for Free and Reduced Meals (FARMs)
The HCPSS participates in the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs. Students from households that meet federal income guidelines are eligible to receive free or reduced-price meals. Qualification is based on family size and income, and enrollment is confidential. All children in households receiving benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can get free meals regardless of income, and students from households that meet federal income guidelines are eligible to receive free or reduced-price meals. Those eligible for Free and Reduced Meals receive both breakfast and lunch for free.
Parents/guardians must submit a new application every school year to maintain their student’s eligibility. Click the button below to apply.
From the Health Room
CCES and every HCPSS school has in stock two Epi-Pens, two Epi-Pen, Jr., Narcan, and an Albuterol inhaler with disposable spacers for individual use. These medications do not go on field trips with students. Should you choose to keep medication locked in the Health Room this school year, you will need to have the child's health care provider sign one/both of the following forms, and an adult must bring the medication to the Health Room. Please do not send any medication, whether prescription or over-the-counter, to school with your child. For questions, please contact the School Nurse, Jessi Schrumm, at 410-313-5609 or jessica_schrumm@hcpss.org. Thank you!
Food Allergies
School Supply Lists for 2026-27
The school supply list for the 2026-27 school year can be found on the main page of our school's website.
We encourage you to drop off your school supplies during your child's Open House on August 20 (PK) or 21 (K-5). Please be sure to clearly label your child's supplies with their name.
Zum RFID Bus Cards and Bus Stop Information
Zum RFID Cards:
Again this year, students who are bus riders will use their Zum RFID Bus Cards to scan on and off the bus each day. Students who were at CCES last year should use their card from last year and attach it to their backpack again. We recommend hooking it to the backpack shoulder strap so that the student can easily hold it to scan. It should be used starting the first day of school, Monday, August 24th. If your child's card was lost, we will note this at the start of the year and request a new one.
If your child is new to CCES, we will request a card for them at the start of the school year. All Pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students will begin using the cards later in the year. Communication will come out later with the start date for these students.
Bus Locator Information:
The HCPSS Bus locator will be updated before school starts. Please be sure to check your child's bus stop location, bus time, and bus number as they may have changed from last year. Please be sure to arrive at your bus stop at least 5 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time.
Parent Lunch Visits
Parent lunch visits are no longer permitted at any HCPSS school. Limiting access during the school day ensures safe and secure school communities by removing unnecessary access to students and school buildings, reducing disruptions, supporting student routines, and minimizing non-essential traffic in student areas. Parents are encouraged to communicate with school staff to stay engaged in their child's learning and seek opportunities to volunteer in an official capacity at the school.
Columbia Association Points Program
The CA (Columbia Association) Points Program is offered to students in grades 3-12 who are enrolled in the Free and Reduced Meals (FARMS) program at participating schools. Students can earn a free CA membership for themselves and their immediate family by meeting goals for grades and attendance.
To participate in the CA Points Program, you must complete a FARMs application and complete the CA Points Enrollment Form. Online enrollment will close on September 25, 2026.
For more information, visit CA Points Program or email CAPoints@ColumbiaAssociation.org.
Join PTA
The Clemens Crossing PTA is a volunteer-based nonprofit organization committed to community-building activities and experiences for our CCES students, families, and staff members. Many wonderful volunteers make PTA-sponsored activities possible, and we welcome anyone who can bring fresh ideas, energy, and support to any of the PTA’s efforts. Membership dues are the backbone of our financial health, and the best way you can support the PTA is by becoming a member. Sign up today:
Back-to-School Picnic: TODAY, 8/28 from 5:30-7pm
Kick off the new school year with an afternoon of fun with friends! Join us on the CCES playground/blacktop on Friday, August 28 from 5:30-7pm for our annual PTA Back-to-School picnic! Pizza, drinks, and snowballs will be available for purchase (cash or Zelle). Bring your own blankets/chairs.
Save the Date: 1st PTA Membership Meeting: Sept. 9
Our first PTA membership meeting will be on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 7pm in the Media Center / on Zoom. This is an important meeting during which we will review / approve our PTA budget and review our full calendar of events for the year. We encourage all new and returning families to get involved with PTA and join us for this first meeting.
Spiritwear: Back-to-School Sale through Sept. 14
Our CCES online spiritwear store is now open! Grab your CCES gear today! A portion of the proceeds supports our PTA. The back-to-school sale is live. Save up to 35% on merchandise and get your gear delivered to your home in days! Don't wait! Free shipping on orders over $75. Shop here today: https://1stplace.sale/43947
🎒 Help Fill a Backpack: Support the CCES Backpack Bundles Program!
Backpack Bundles is a PTA-led program that discreetly provides students with nourishing, easy-to-prepare meals each week. The initiative is fully funded by donations and powered by volunteers—making it one of the simplest ways to support families in our community.
If your child would benefit from receiving a backpack bundle, please contact our school counselor Ms. Diaz amanda_diaz@hcpss.org, or your child’s homeroom teacher. All requests and distribution are confidential.
Looking For: Shelf‑stable, kid‑friendly foods such as Chef Boyardee, mac and cheese cups, shelf‑stable milk, jerky, applesauce pouches, and fruit cups.
Ways to Contribute:
👉 Sign up to volunteer: Click here 🛒 Order from our Amazon Wishlist: Click here 🎉 Bring donations to the CCES Back to School Picnic 📦 Drop off items in the CCES foyer bin 💵 Make a monetary donation: Donate here
Questions?
Jenny Lease – jenniferfisher4@gmail.com Annie Weinschenk – annie.weinschenk@gmail.com
Let’s come together to ensure every CCES student has what they need to thrive 💙
PTA After-School Activities for Fall 2026
We have an outstanding lineup for after school activities. Please sign up ASAP because some of the programs have low enrollment and danger of cancellation, which would be a disappointment for the children looking forward to the programs.
If your child is interested in any of these activities see below for more information. None of these programs require any experience with the activity (just a willingness to try!) and kids are dismissed directly to the program from their classroom after school. Just make sure you send a note to the teacher so your child gets sent to the class!
Some of these programs offer financial support- so if that's a need please reach out to our coordinator Karolina DuBois (karolina3@gmail.com).
See Below for Details on these programs:
🏀 Basketball or 🧑🍳Cooking Mondays
♟️ Chess Tuesdays
🧘 Yoga or 🎭 Play Wednesdays
🎨 Art Thursdays
🏃Girls on the Run Mondays and Thursdays
Later in the Fall - stay tuned for updates:
🧑🔬 Science Olympiad Tuesdays (3rd-5th)
🧑💻 Tech Kids Fridays (4th-5th)
🏐 Volleyball Tuesdays (K-5th)
Basketball - Mondays starting September 14 for K-5
Our program is designed to provide a fun, inclusive, and developmental basketball experience where athletes build skills, confidence, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a positive environment. Whether your child is new to basketball or has previous experience, our coaches are committed to helping every athlete learn, improve, and have fun. There will be 10 weekly practices and 3 games against neighboring schools (dates TBD). Throughout the season, athletes will develop fundamental basketball skills through engaging practices before putting those skills into action during game days. Our emphasis is on learning, effort, teamwork, and creating a positive experience for every player.
- Experienced and encouraging coaches
- No tryouts – all skill levels are welcome
- Official Spirit League jersey included for new athletes
- Scholarships available for families in need
Sign up: https://registration.amazingathletes.com/events/spotlight/clemens-crossing-es-spritleage-basketball
Silver Knights Chess Club - Tuesdays starting Sept 29 for Grades K-5
Learn chess with Silver Knights Chess Academy! We’ve taught 100,000 children to play including state & national champions, but most students are beginners looking to learn a new skill and have FUN. Class time is divided between lessons and practice games. Lessons range from the basic rules to advanced tournament strategies.
Students will have the opportunity to play in tournaments (in-person and online) outside of club time. This in-person club includes free online extras including weekly practice tournaments, a Chesskid Gold membership ($49 value!), and an event with a chess celebrity. All chess supplies provided. All skill levels are welcome. For more information please visit chessacademy.com.
Registration Here: https://chessacademy.com/products/clemens-crossing-chess-club
iCook: Sugar and Spice - Mondays starting Sept 28 for K-5
In our Sugar and Spice culinary theme, kids will enjoy the best of both worlds—creating one sweet and one savory recipe each class! Young chefs will make delicious bites while building kitchen skills and confidence. Students will discover how wholesome ingredients like avocado, sweet potato, pumpkin, and fresh fruit can transform everyday recipes into colorful, nutritious creations. Learners will develop a variety of hands-on techniques including layering, folding, and glazing. Young Chefs will create recipes like Pumpkin Cream Trifle, Chocolate Orange Tart, and Triple Berry Pancake Muffins. Each week, themed lessons like "From Garden to Oven," "Veggie Transformations," and "Naturally Sweet Layers" guide students to think critically about where food comes from and how simple, seasonal ingredients can be both delicious and nourishing. Young chefs will also explore the science of flavor by learning how spices like cinnamon, citrus zest, and warm seasonal blends can enhance both sweet and savory dishes. Along the way, students build real skills, like measuring, mixing, and plating their own creation! By the end of the program, every student will have the skills, knowledge, and creativity to bring a little Sugar and Spice into their own kitchen at home!
Registration link: https://www.icookafterschool.com/events/clemens-crossing-columbia-md-monday-2
Fall School Play (The Lion King Jr) - Wednesdays starting Sept 23 - initial sign ups for Grades 3, 4, 5
Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts presents The Lion King Jr! Students learn the fundamentals of musical theater including choreography, character development, and stage direction. This program meets for after-school classes and culminates with a pizza cast party and an evening performance for family and friends on the final day of the class with a full stage production complete with theatrical sets, costumes, and sound!
Sign up here: https://cctarts.shop/programs/elementary-after-school/
KidzArt - Thursdays starting Sept 24 for K-5
KidzArt is a FUN, art-enrichment program designed to enhance drawing skills and build each child’s confidence. By using our simple drawing method and specialized format, students will learn to focus, relax and think creatively. Our Certified Instructors help students create original works of art, take risks and think outside of the box. Within each session, students will explore a variety of artist grade materials, such as oil and chalk pastels, watercolor, charcoal, clay, copper, textured papers and much more. Younger children practice following directions and using fine motor skills. Older children love having the creative freedom and guidance to further their skills. KidzArtists will bring home a new masterpiece each week with a kid-tested and educationally rich curriculum that NEVER REPEATS!
Sign up: https://www.kidzart.com/franchise/centralmd/
AFTER-SCHOOL KIDS YOGA! - Wednesdays starting Oct 7 for Grades 3-5
Move • Play • Laugh • Breathe! 🧘♀️✨
Give your child something fun to look forward to after school!
Each 60-minute class is packed with creative movement, silly challenges, imaginative games, and kid-friendly yoga that keep kids moving, laughing, and engaged from start to finish. No yoga experience is needed! Along the way, kids will build confidence, discover simple ways to manage big emotions, improve focus, and calm their minds and bodies.
🧘 Bring a yoga mat if you have one. Come ready for an after-school adventure!
👉 SIGN UP TODAY! https://www.kathleencorley-yoga.com/classes
Girls on the Run - Mondays & Thursdays starting September 14 for Girls in grades 3-5
Girls on the Run inspires girls of all abilities to recognize their individual strengths, while building a sense of connection in a team setting. Volunteer coaches facilitate lessons that blend physical activity with life skill development to enable girls to adapt to whatever comes their way. At the end of the season, the team completes a 5K together, which provides a tangible sense of accomplishment and sets a confident mindset into motion.
Register here by finding the Clemens Crossing team: https://www.gotrcentralmd.org
Cub Scouts Pack 618
Whether this is your first time hearing about scouting or you earned your Eagle Award, your child will benefit from becoming a Cub Scout! We teach outdoor skills and stewardship, citizenship and service, cooperation and self-reliance, and so much more. Join us for New Family Night at Clemens Crossing on Wednesday, September 16th at 6:30pm and/or at Martin Road Park on Saturday, September 19th at 5pm to find out about Pack 618 and all the amazing opportunities to learn and grow with Scouting. We hope to see you at the Back-to-School picnic today too! We accept all elementary students, kindergarten through fifth-grade. Please email us with any questions at Cubmaster@pack618md.com or visit our website at www.pack618md.com.