CMS Cougar Communication

Dear Students, Parents, and Families,

As we move through October, there’s a lot to celebrate at Christensen Middle School. Our classrooms are buzzing with learning, students are settling into strong routines, and the energy around campus reflects the pride and spirit that make CMS such a special place.

We also have several important updates and opportunities to stay involved this month:

• CMS PTA FunD Run Fundraiser: Our biggest fundraiser of the year is in full swing! We’re raising $15,000 to support classroom supplies, honor roll celebrations, and campus improvements. Families can register and begin collecting donations at mybooster.com
• Chromebook Insurance: The order window for School Device Coverage (SDC) insurance is open through October 31. Once it closes, no new policies can be purchased until next school year. Because a Chromebook replacement can cost up to $399, we strongly recommend families consider coverage. Please note, families must notify SDC if a student’s device is swapped for repair.

Thank you for your continued partnership in making CMS a place where students feel supported, challenged, and proud to belong.

Brian Scharmann (he/him)
Principal
Christensen Middle School

Our biggest fundraiser of the year is almost here — the Boosterthon Color FunD Run on Thursday, October 23! The PTA is looking for volunteers to help make this event a fun and memorable experience for all CMS students. Shifts are available throughout the morning and early afternoon on the field behind CMS, and your support makes all the difference. Whether you can help with setup, cheering on students, or cleanup, we’d love to have you join in the fun.

Sign up to volunteer here: Boosterthon Volunteer Sign-Up

• No weapons or replica weapons
• No blood or gore
• No skates or rollerblades
• Costume masks may be worn during parades only
• In keeping with our District’s student dress code policy (BP 5332), no costumes shall include: “clothing, accessories, and jewelry shall be free of writing, pictures, symbols or any other insignia which are crude, vulgar, profane, obscene, libelous, slanderous, or sexually suggestive. Clothing, accessories, or jewelry that degrade any cultural, religious, or ethnic values, that advocate racial, ethnic, or religious prejudice or discrimination, or that promote sex, the use of tobacco, drugs, or alcohol, or any unlawful acts are prohibited.”

Each year, Livermore police officers partner with local schools to bring holiday joy to students and families in need through the Shop With a Cop program. We’re proud to share that Christensen’s own Mr. Scharmann and Ms. Gomes help coordinate this incredible districtwide effort.

This annual event pairs students with officers for a fun morning of shopping, smiles, and community connection, ensuring that every child can experience the magic of the season. If you’d like to contribute to making this year’s event possible, donations can be made directly through the GoFundMe link below:

Donate to Shop With a Cop 2025

Your generosity helps brighten the holidays for local children and strengthens the spirit of kindness that makes Livermore such a special community.

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.

• Girls Basketball - October
• Boys Volleyball - January
• Girls Volleyball - February
• 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.

Hi Parents! Many students feel intense pressure around grades - whether they're struggling to pass or trying to maintain straight A's. This stress can lead to self-doubt and anxiety, especially when they believe they're "just not good" at certain subjects. That' s where Growth Mindset comes in. Instead of thinking "I can't do this," we can help students shift to "I can't do this....yet."

Try phrases like:

• "You don't understand it yet, but you will."
• "With effort and support, you can improve."
• You're capable - you just need time and practice."

Helping students reframe struggle as part of learning builds confidence, resilience, and a healthier relationship with school. Small shifts in language can make a big impact.

Dawn Allen, Counselor

Hello CMS community!

The CMS PTA has chosen to change things up for the FunD Run. This year we are partnering with Booster-thon and are doing a COLOR RUN.

Our goal is to raise $15,000 to support staff and projects for students to benefit our students at Christensen Middle School. We are making great progress at meeting that goal!

Students and families team up to gather donations! The more donations, the more rewards and chances to be selected for our daily giveaways. Boost your chances by signing up, sharing your page, and bringing in those donations!

We have some suggestions for "the day of" to make things easier. You are welcome to wear your PE clothes noting that they MAY be stained with the colors. OR you may bring another set of clothes that you do not mind possible stains.

There will be no school for students on Friday, October 24. While students enjoy the day off, our teachers will be on campus taking part in professional development to support their growth and learning.

The next Science @ Stockmen's Park event, hosted by Quest Science Center, is next Saturday, October 25th, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This FREE event features spooky science activities for all ages at Stockmen's Park.

Get ready to show your school spirit and take a stand during Red Ribbon Week! Here’s what’s happening each day:

• Mon 10/27 – House Color Day: Wear your house color.
• Tues 10/28 – Peace Out to Drugs: Wear tie-dye.
• Wed 10/29 – Team Up Against Drugs: Wear your favorite sports team gear.
• Thurs 10/30 – Follow Your Dreams: Come cozy in your pajamas.
• Fri 10/31 – Drugs Are Scary: Wear your school-appropriate Halloween costume.

Get into the spooky spirit with Halloween Hands—fun, candy-filled treats presented by CMS AVID! They’re just $3 each, available for purchase at both A and B lunches October 27–29. All Halloween Hands will be delivered to 5th-period classes on Friday, October 31.

Cash only. Don’t miss out on this sweet Halloween tradition!

The Christensen Middle School AVID Program is excited to host our 3rd Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive from November 3–6! Join us in supporting our community by donating nonperishable items for local families in need. All donations will go to Tri-Valley Haven.

Suggested items include instant mashed potatoes, stuffing mix, turkey gravy packets, canned vegetables and fruits, pumpkin pie mix, cranberry sauce, chicken broth, evaporated milk, and boxed Jello.

Donations can be brought to your 1st-period class, and the class with the highest number of items per student will win a prize. Thank you for helping us make a difference this Thanksgiving season!

The first CMS School Site Council meeting will be held virtually on Tuesday, November 4 at 3:00 PM.

Join us at this link: Google Meet. Agenda to follow...

Make dinner easy and support the AVID Program at Christensen Middle School! Join us at Chipotle on Wednesday, November 5, from 5–9 pm at 4691 1st Street in Livermore.

Chipotle will donate 25% of event sales back to CMS AVID. To participate, order online for pickup using code 83LHMQM or show the flyer in the restaurant.

Please note: Delivery orders and gift card purchases do not count toward the fundraise

🏫🚫

Veterans Day Holiday, No School

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Take a break from cooking and support CMS at Calafia Kitchen on Friday, November 14, from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM!

Stop by 1502 N. Vasco Road for breakfast, lunch, or dinner — dine in or take out — and a portion of your order will help fund programs and events for our students. It’s an easy (and delicious) way to support the Christensen PTA and our Cougar community!

Mark your calendars for November 14, 2025 — it’s the annual Ruby Bridges Walk-to-School Day, officially recognized by the state of California. This special event was born from a group of young school patrollers at Martin Elementary who, inspired by Ruby Bridges’ courage, asked: Why isn’t there a day named after her?

Support our incredible CMS Special Olympics athletes by grabbing dinner at Dave’s Hot Chicken on Thursday, December 12, from 4–8 PM!

Head to 4213 First Street, Livermore, and show the flyer or use the code GIVE when ordering through the Dave’s app or website at daveshotchicken.com. Dave’s will generously donate 20% of your order back to CMS Special Olympics.

Every order helps our student-athletes continue to shine—on and off the field. Thank you for supporting our Cougars and making a difference in our community!

There will be a virtual English Learners (ELAC) parents' meeting from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday 1/20.

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

CMS is excited to offer the AMC 8 Math test after school on Thursday 1/22/2026 for students who are interested. A new practice test will be available for pick up each week in the office beginning the week of 10/27 all the way up to the test.

There will be no cost for students to take the AMC 8, but pre-registration is required.

For those who are interested in taking the AMC 8 with us, students must complete this short Google form from their LVJUSD Google account: https://forms.gle/rFP8ax4M1ZtyUBru5.

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 - Everleigh Amos

• 7th grader - Wyatt Thompson

• 8th grader - Landon Uecker

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

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

Congratulations to:

• 6th grader - Danna Soto

• 7th grader - Delaney Amador

• 8th grader - Nola Stoll

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

The Clash of Classes was a blast on Friday night, filling the gym with school spirit and friendly competition. The 6th graders played their hearts out and finished strong in 3rd place, while the 8th graders put up an impressive fight in a nail-biting finish. In the end, it was the 7th graders who came out on top, claiming this year’s title!

A huge thank you to all the students, staff, and families who came out to cheer, participate, and make the event such a fun and memorable night. Cougar pride was on full display!

At the October Board of Education meeting, we were proud to recognize four exceptional members of the Christensen Middle School community for exemplifying LVJUSD’s Core Values. Paraeducator Jennifer Bernstein was celebrated for her collaboration and tireless support of both students and staff, Health Technician Nola Rechtin was honored for her integrity and professionalism, Science and STEM teacher Arch Manganaan was recognized for her innovation and dedication to continuous learning, and School Nurse Cassidy Sherman was commended for her inclusive care and compassion for all students. Together, these four individuals reflect the heart of Christensen Middle School and the district’s commitment to collaboration, integrity, innovation, and inclusion.

Let’s give a big Cougar shout out to Mr. Gatehouse! This is his first year at CMS and when he isn’t teaching PE, you can find him coaching both high school and youth sports around town. He likes to hang out with his family and when he isn’t grilling, you may see him at some of our local restaurants. If he could give his middle school self advice, he would say, “Show your work! You’ll thank me later.” Side note from Mrs. Bauman: I 100% guarantee that his mom told him that too!

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 CMS teachers by helping fund their classroom projects through DonorsChoose! Each contribution, big or small, directly supports learning opportunities and resources for our students. Check out the current projects and consider making a donation to make a difference in our classrooms.

• Ms. Garner's AVID Supplies

Math Club at CMS is open to all students and meets every Monday after school from 2:40‑3:40 in Room 905. In Math Club, we work together to tackle challenging problems from MathCounts, and we also hold practice competitions to help prepare students who want to compete district‑wide. It’s a great place to build problem‑solving skills, make math fun, and deepen understanding — come join us and be part of a team!

Neon Clear is back at CMS! This exciting STEAM program blends academics, athletics, arts, and adventures to give students hands-on learning and unique experiences—from STEM projects and painting to trapeze, scuba, and even flight lessons.

Program Details:

• Thursdays, 2:45–4:00 PM

• Room 204 at CMS

Students who participate in academic, athletic, and artistic activities can even earn a scholarship toward an adventure opportunity. Space is extremely limited, so don’t wait—Register for Neon Clear 2025–26 today! Note, registration must be done by parents/guardians and student cannot register using their lvjusd.org email addresses.

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

The price is $35 until February 1. The price will increase after February 1 to $40. Yearbook sales will end on April 6, 2026. There will only be a limited number of copies available for purchase after this date. The prices include shipping to CMS in June.

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

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

Try our new Mediterranean Salad, available every Thursday and Friday in October

• Made with Hummus, Bell Peppers, Cucumbers, and Italian Dressing.
• Available with Seasoned Chicken or Edamame.

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.

Remember to complete and submit Meal and Universal Benefit Applications by October 31st. Click here for applications.

The order window for families to purchase Chromebook insurance through School Device Coverage (SDC) is open through October. Once the window closes, no new policies may be purchased until the beginning of next school year. The policies are between SDC and the family, any changes to the student device (swapped for repair) must be communicated to SDC by the parents. Refer to the website for more information! English Flier Spanish Flier.

Note that the cost of Chromebook replacement is up to $399!

Operation School Bell (OSB)- Clothing the Children (CTC) program is reaching out for volunteers to help with our annual program. 200 students from LVJUSD will benefit! The ask is to accompany students in shopping at Kohl's on October 18 and 19: Livermore Valley Unified School District October 25 and 26: Livermore Valley Unified School District

See linked flyer for details and how to sign up!

Students in grades 3–8 are invited to dance down First Street with the Livermore High School Dance Team during the Livermore Holiday Parade on Friday, December 6!

Participants will receive poms, a holiday sweater, and a fun clinic session (only one practice required). Space is limited, and registration closes October 23, so don’t wait to sign up!

All proceeds benefit the LHS Dance Team. For more details or to register, scan the QR code on the flyer or contact vcastro@lvjusd.org

Science Odyssey Logo Contest is now open and accepting entries. To register for the Logo Contest please have participants fill out this form 2025-2026 Science Odyssey Logo Contest The contest will close on Wednesday, October 29th at 4:00pm.

• February 25, 2026 Student presentations are due to judges - times TBD
• February 26, 2026 Student project exhibits, a planetarium show, trashion show, live music and community partner exhibits will be held at Joe Michell TK-8 between 5-7 pm.

The City of Livermore and Poet Laureate Peggy Schimmelman invite students to enter the Livermore Teen Poet of the First Semester contest! This semester’s theme is “Tomorrow.”

What will happen tomorrow? What do you hope, know, or fear will happen? Use your imagination—any style or interpretation of the theme will be considered.

• Deadline: December 5, 2025
• Who Can Enter: Middle and High School students
• How to Submit: Email your poem to PLLivermore@gmail.com
• . Include your name, private (non-LVJUSD) email address, grade level, school, and teacher. One poem per student. (No AI-generated poems, please.)
• Recognition: Winning poets will receive a Certificate of Achievement from the City of Livermore. With the poet’s permission, selected poems may be published locally and displayed in the Livermore Civic Center Library.

Show off your creativity in the CMS PTA Pumpkin Decorating Contest! Students can paint or decorate a pumpkin—real or fake—but no carving, please.

Bring your pumpkin to display in the library from October 20–27. Voting will take place on October 28 and 29, and winners will be announced on October 31!

Prizes:

• 1st Place – $40 Amazon Gift Card
• 2nd Place – $25 Amazon Gift Card
• 3rd Place – $10 Starbucks Gift Card

All pumpkins not picked up by October 31 will be discarded, so be sure to collect yours after the contest. We can’t wait to see your spooky, silly, and creative designs!

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

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

We appreciate your support.

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

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