• During the week of February 22nd, we celebrated student success at the grade level awards assemblies where nearly 750 students were recognized for academic achievement by earning a 2.5 – 4.0 Grade Point Average (GPA).
• Our students have been recognized as front runners for the Governor’s Challenge from the California Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, and the school will receive check for $1,000 that will support our physical education program.
• Many of our students participated in the PTSA Reflections contest, and several students were recognized for outstanding work in the arts.
• Many of our orchestra and band students have been selected to be part of the San Diego Symphony.
• Several of our girls have been nominated and participated in the Young Woman’s Leadership Conference Series.
• One of our students was awarded a $2,000.00 scholarship for her outstanding response to a writing contest.
• Over 90% of our 8th graders and their families have participated in the 4-year planning sessions with their counselors which prepares students to articulate seamlessly to high school.
• One of our teachers, Ms. Allinger, served as an ambassador and brought students to the Celebration of Girls and Women in Sports Day at San Diego State to encourage participation in lifelong physical activity. 

 

 

 

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Dear Families,

 

It is hard to believe that we are approaching the holidays. I am happy to announce that Challenger Middle School's API scores were released in October. Our school gained 22 points compared to last September, earning a score of 862. Kudos to all staff members, students and families for their hard work and dedication.

 

As most of you have probably heard, the Proposition S funded i-21 initiative has delivered a suite of new digital tools to over twenty classrooms at Challenger. The technology is designed to create an engaging and personalized learning environment. The main components include an interactive whiteboard, audio/visual cabinet, a teacher’s presentation station, a wireless voice amplification system, an advanced model document camera, DVD player, and a teacher’s presentation station. The teachers and students have embraced the new technology. During the next two years 7th and 8th grade classrooms will also have access to i21 classroom equipment.

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce our new librarian, Aime Wilson. Ms. Wilson will work part time at Challenger and part time at Wangenheim. She is a welcome addition to our staff, and has already renewed a partnership with Barnes and Noble to support our school, please stop by and introduce yourself when you are on campus.

 

The first progress reports of the school year have been distributed. Please review your students’ grades, take time to celebrate success and talk about ways your student might improve if necessary. Our counselors are available to support you and your student. Do not hesitate to call and request a conference. One great way to monitor your students’ progress is through the Zangle Parent Connect program, if you haven’t already please sign up now. This online grade program allows you to check your students’ grades and attendance as often as you wish.

Each year the district receives over eight million dollars in Impact Aid Funding. This is not automatic; we must apply for it each year. Please take time to fill out the Federal Survey Card your student took home. This is a daunting task for our clerical staff your support is greatly appreciated.

 

In closing, please remember that School CHOICE applications are due February 15, 2010. If you are interested in your student attending a high school other than Mira Mesa High School, you will need to complete the application on or before the due date. There will be a School CHOICE fair for all schools on January 30, 2010 at Balboa Park; Palisades Recital Hall from 10am – 3pm. Please encourage your friends and families to investigate School CHOICE. Also, feel free to recommend Challenger Middle School for your friends and family members who do not reside in the Challenger Boundary area. If they have any questions please tell them to contact us or visit the Challenger Website.

 

I wish all of you a happy and safe holiday season.

 

Sincerely,

 

Sheelagh Moran
Principal

Dear Families,

Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year! The staff has worked diligently to prepare all aspects of our school community to best serve your student. During the summer, we hired several new staff members. Please welcome Michelle Carson (Social Studies), Mark Monroe (Physical Education), Tod Shelburne (Math), Jodi Takei (Science), and An Vo (Counselor) to our staff. I am excited for you to get to know our new staff members; their experience and enthusiasm will enhance our purpose.

As we predicted, our test scores have climbed! Our API score will be released later in the month, I will be sure to post the score once it is reported.

Congratulations to the entire Challenger community! Your relentless dedication is paying off for all of our students. I could not be more proud.

During the first few teacher days, staff analyzed the 2008-2009 test results in order to make informed instructional decisions as they plan for the coming school year. The staff will use data throughout the year to support all students. As I look to the new school year, I believe we will strengthen our program in many ways. My hopes include increasing collaboration and leadership among all staff members in order to share best practices, taking risks with rigorous instruction, and developing even stronger collegial and family/community relationships. This will provide an atmosphere that is centered on increased student achievement as well as building a learning community that it is supportive for all those committed to Challenger to be their best.

You have probably read in the newspaper that Dr. Grier, our superintendent, may leave San Diego Unified. During this time of transition, it is critical that we reflect on our work over the past few years and move forward with a commitment to continue what we do so well - work together as a team to best serve our students.

As you talk with your student, please take time to review his/her planner on a weekly basis. This is a tool that assists your student in meeting expectations in all areas. Regular viewing of the Challenger website will keep you informed about the school and is essential for you as we work side by side as we move through the school year. If you haven’t already, be sure to enroll in the Zangle ParentConnection. You will be able to monitor your students grades and attendance on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. A link is in the parent section of the website. We heard nothing but positive remarks from our families last year, if you in need assistance do not hesitate to call and speak with a counselor or a member of the office staff.

Please take time to get involved with our work at Challenger. There are many opportunities to support the school through volunteering, PTSA and fundraising. Thank you for choosing Challenger.  Hope to see you soon at the Open House on Wednesday, September 23rd.

Sincerely,

Sheelagh Moran
Principal