February 4, 2022
Chesapeake Academy's mission: to inspire each student to approach learning with 
curiosity and creativity, 
pursue excellence in all endeavors, 
and act with integrity--
so each can make our community and world a better place. 

The Head's Heads UP!

As a school, we cannot live into our mission at Chesapeake Academy without the coaching, modeling, nurturing, enthusiasm, high expectations, and love of this dynamic group of faculty and staff. Each one plays an important role in the lives of our students and families. 

School people are definitely feeling the weight of on-going pressures of educating in a pandemic. And while we are so truly lucky to be in-person doing the work we do, this marathon of COVID school has required each of us to dig deep, stay positive, and set an optimistic, “can-do” tone for each day. 

As we approach Valentine's Day, I hope you'll indulge me in my own reflection about the people who make up this community of professionals and allow me to share with you a little glimpse of what makes each one so special. 

Tiffany Harrison has stepped into the first grade teaching position with a passion and purpose for working with younger learners. She has embraced what makes emerging readers and mathematicians so fun, and makes the first grade classroom a special place to be! What a wonderful addition to the lower school team!
Susan May brings her love of literature to children every day. She finds ways to connect with the academic classrooms, bringing language arts and library skills to class. Children love seeing her “oxymoron of the week” on the board and getting recommendations from her on the next good book. 
Rosetta Struse brings her nurturing and creativity to every part of her day with students. Her love for children and her gentle nature shine through in every interaction with or about students. Her pre-k through second grade PE classes are fun, funny, and purposeful. Extended day is a happy place because of her leadership. 
A pied piper of kindergarteners, Molly Vanderpool leads them on adventures of every kind in and out of the classroom. Always thinking about the elements of childhood that are special, Molly never misses an opportunity to get outside with exploring kindergarteners. Molly models creativity, joy, and inquiry with the students and adults throughout CA. 
Courtney Reisner, volunteer extraordinaire, has a connection to each student who has ever been in a classroom where she has worked in the last 12 years. Plus, Ms. Courtney send cards for every holiday, making each CA employee feel special. 
Jane Allen–or Coach–brings her high energy, her athletic expertise, organization, and enthusiasm for the Ospreys to everything she does. From reenergizing the PE program...to managing coaches...to supporting advisees... to helping with events...to greeting the kids each morning, Coach Allen is all in all the time. 
Ashley Duncan brings a collaborative spirit to all that she does. The first one to say, “I can help,” she is a flexible teacher who can work easily with kids of all ages. Spanish classes are multi-sensory and engaging so that each student builds vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills as they are ready. ¡Qué maravillosa!
Catherine Emery has a natural gift for working with students of all ages. At the helm of the fourth grade program this year, she is always patient, always kind, and always insightful. She is a calm, trusted adult for students who holds them accountable to bring their best selves to each endeavor. 
Beth Clark has amazing “spidey senses” and brings deep empathy to a child's journey. She recognizes and affirms others' gifts. She absolutely sees the best in each child. Her ability to partner with parents about what makes the early childhood years special is a treasure.
Cameron Wilson, our custodian, is reliable and steady, making sure that our facilities are ready for the next day. Adapting to COVID protocols, he ensures rooms are clean and sanitized to keep us healthy.
A gifted musician and gatherer of children, Barbara Hays celebrates the rhythm within each child, bringing students together to create beautiful music. Whether introducing students to ukelele, guitar, piano, tone chimes, or composition, she makes sure music is embedded in our lives.
An expert in learning support, Kenzie Manetz does not shy away from new challenges. She supports each teacher and each student so that our students are successful. She models good practice throughout her work with individuals and makes sure that students love learning as much as she does! 
Sonja Smith is a creative thinker and problem solver in all aspects of school life. Sonja is always an upbeat and flexible team player who can work with anyone–student or adult--to yield great results. She pushes herself outside of her comfort zone over and over again, which shows kids they can, too!
An terrific ambassador for CA, Kelly Antonio welcomes families with a warm smile, ready to help them see themselves at Chesapeake Academy. Kelly knows our program well and believes in everything we do–she shares that love easily, making sure that new students and families are brought into the Osprey nest!
Martha Rogers is the consummate cheerleader for her students. Always ready to try a new approach or a new project, Martha models risk taking and a “can do” spirit for her students. “Ok, cats, we got this!” Martha is a supportive colleague who brings enthusiasm and energy to all we do at CA!
Niki Allen continues to be such a team player at CA, adding so much to the Learning Support Services crew. Her work with individual students and small groups allows students to shine and find their success in the academic classroom. 
Keyetta DuNomes has brought her international experiences from teaching abroad to the sixth grade geography and literature programs bringing valuable perspectives. She cares deeply about her students, wants to make sure that they have the skills they need to be successful, and makes sure they know it. 
Catherine Emry has a deep knowledge of every child, family member, grandparent, special friend, and donor who has been part of the CA community. She rallies the troops to volunteer in all capacities to help CA. She is expert, organized, humble, and genuine. Catherine makes our events shine and makes supporters of the school feel so special.
Marshall Novak is a natural teacher, and leader of the eighth grade homeroom crew. She inspires students in all levels of math to find strategies to learning that are multidimensional and confidence building for mathematicians. In US history, she helps students dig deep into the concepts important to our nation's history, all the while making learning fun, accessible, and relevant. 
Dean of Students, coach, advisor, math teacher, literature teacher, Hillary Smith wears every hat with the same commitment to the development of young people as learners and leaders. Hillary has an innate sense of what each student needs at any given moment. She holds students accountable with love and sets high expectations that they want to reach. 
An experienced educator who “fits” anywhere, Kelley Calkins has always been so flexible in helping our teachers and students. Upbeat and fun, she keeps our pre-k students engaged all morning, and then jumps into Learning Support Services in the afternoons, working with individual student academic plans.
Connie Smith, the keeper of our world, is efficient and effective, and always seems to have every detail of the school in her head. Even more important, she is always kind, caring, and responsive to the those of us who rely on her capabilities. She always has a smile and is the perfect “first contact” for our school community.
Kim Dynia is the consummate innovator, never resting on her laurels, but always engaging to lead what's next. Kim is CA's lead learner, and invites others to learn along with her. She brings her knowledge of technology, curriculum, and best practices in instruction to lead professional development and the continuing evolution of the program of the school.
Always looking for how to best position CA for today and the future, Richard Abbott brings expertise as well as humor to his work. Richard is the backbone of operations in every sense and helps anyone who needs his help. He keeps the wheels on the bus (literally and figuratively) and juggles so much to keep us all working well. 
Robin Blake, or “the Energizer Bunny” as I call her, is full of energy and enthusiasm. She jumps in with both feet to whatever will benefit the students and school the most. Spirited, engaging, Robin is the first one in the building every day, always going the extra mile or miles to make sure students have what they need.
Anne Carol Wood has been a fantastic addition to Lower School, making the second grade program a model of differentiated instruction and collaborative, purposeful teamwork. She has created a happy community of learners who build their own independence each and every day!
Becca Baker supports our extended day program, making sure that everyone is learning and smiling throughout each day afternoon in Wiley! We're proud to have this talented former Osprey on our team!

“Collaboration is not about gluing together existing egos. It's about the ideas that never existed until after everyone entered the room.” These folks give their all every day and come up with a magical mix of creativity, expertise, good humor, flexibility, and teamwork that I've never seen anywhere else. Send them lots of love this Valentine's Day!


Julie
 
CA is Excited About Birthday Books!

The James Library at Chesapeake Academy added 350 plus titles to the collection this year through the generosity of donors to Chesapeake Academy's Birthday Book Program. Donors pay for a book and Librarian Susan May selects a title that suits both the library's needs and the individual child. The book is dedicated in honor of a specified student's birthday in a book plate affixed inside the cover. As the book enters circulation, the named student is the first to check it out! Birthday books, receiving rock star welcomes, were handed out in a whole school assembly ensuring plenty of new reading material to fill the remaining chilly days of Winter.
CA Summer Camps 2022 will be here before we know it! Plan for a summer of fun, exploration, and discovery at CA! CA Summer Camps are top rated by Virginia Living Magazine each year, and spots are limited. Don’t wait! Many weeks had waiting lists last summer!

Camp Irvington Ages 4 through rising first grade; $250/week except where noted; Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Campers explore each week’s theme through age-appropriate field trips and activities. All activities and entrance fees are included. 
Is it fictional? June 20 – June 24
Is it a book character? Can I do it, too? Campers will try out adventures found in some of our favorite books. Whether it’s bike riding, making snacks, or exploring, this week is full of fun that should not be missed!
Is it aquatic? June 27- July 1 $250
Is it a fish? Does it have bones? Welcome to CA’s own shark week! Campers will learn about these fascinating creatures and some fictional friends like Clark the Shark in the Shark Zone. 
Is it on a picnic? July 5- July 8 $200
Is it on picnics? Does it fit in a picnic basket? Campers will spend the morning preparing for their picnic by creating a picnic basket with special snacks and activities based on clues. Each afternoon they will picnic and play at a fun mystery location. Of course, this week includes splashes of red, white, and blue! 
Is it on a farm? July 11 - July 15 $250
Is it on a farm? Is there a barn? Campers will explore life around the Northern Neck, learning what is grown in our area and what animals live on a farm. Look for fictional farm fun, too! A visit to a teaching farm will add to the excitement! 
Is it buoyant? July 18 - July 22 $250
Is it buoyant? Does it sink? Young scientists will explore their environment to find out what floats. They will make predictions, conduct experiments, and record results. All that time around water will also keep campers cool. Some experiences will occur in different locations around the Northern Neck. 
Is it colorful? July 25 - July 29 $250
Is it colorful? Is it multicolored? Colors reflect our feelings and help us to express ourselves. Color allows us to stand out or blend in. Campers will learn about rainbows, mixing colors, expressing emotion with color, camouflages, and their habitat colors. Campers will use their heightened color senses when exploring the animals at the zoo. 
Is it green? August 1 - 5 $250
Is it green? Can I help? Become a planeteer at CA Camp! Campers will explore the beautiful environment of the Northern Neck and learn ways to keep it clean and green. So much positive power will have everyone enthusiastically green!
Camp Chesapeake Rising second through eighth grade; Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. except where noted; fees for each week are listed below.

Campers will explore each week’s theme through age-appropriate field trips and activities. All activities and entrance fees are included. 
Girls, Gizmos, and Gadgets (GGG) June 20 - June 24, 8:30 a.m. to noon, $125
Specialty camp for girls in rising 4th grade through rising 8th grade.
Chesapeake Academy is going big again with our STEM-focused GGG! Making full use of CA’s Arts & Innovation Hub, campers will design and code robots to perform a variety of tasks, create their own pieces using the 3D printer and laser cutter, and compete in fun challenges! This is a week that will inspire and energize your young inventor! 
Art Exploration? June 20 - June 24 1:00 p.m to noon, $125
Afternoon camp for students in rising 4th grade through rising 8th grade.
Not to leave it at STEM, Chesapeake Academy is excited to put the “A” in STEAM! Students will discover their inner artist through exploring different mediums, art challenges, and more! This is sure to be a week full of artistic growth and creativity!
Northern Neck Explorers June 27 - July 1, $250
Find adventure in and around the water! This favorite camp is back with new activities and destinations. Campers will love exploring parks, swimming, and having new adventures--a perfect way to see all the exciting things the Northern Neck has to offer! 
Fun Day Sundae July 5 - 8, $250
Nothing is more patriotic than a cool ice cream after a hot summer day of adventure! Campers will participate in daily trips and activities such as bowling and beach time. Each day will include a cool treat at local ice cream destinations. We’ll try our hand at making homemade ice cream, too! Of course, expect splashes of red, white, and blue celebrations all week long! 
Farm to Table July 11 - 15, $250
This exciting and delicious week is back! Campers will travel around the Northern Neck learning about local foods as well as harvesting and growing techniques. We will also seek the expertise of local chefs to learn more about how our food is prepared and try our own hands in the kitchen. New cooking experiences combine with old favorites to make this a can’t miss week of delicious meals! 
Mystery Tour July 18 - 22, $300
Chesapeake Academy’s famous mystery tour is back again! New destinations and surprises make for a thrilling week where no two days will be the same. There is something for everyone at this camp. Mystery Tour will keep campers guessing what fun is to come each day! 
Mad Science July 25 - 29, $250
Through experiments and activities both on and off campus we will explore the exciting world of science! Fun filled, hands on experiences make this a dynamite week! Embrace your inner scientist and join the fun! 
Animal Adventures August 1 - 5, $300
Calling all animal lovers! Campers will travel to local zoos and farms to see regional and exotic animals. Each day is sure to be a unique adventure as we see awesome animals up close. Campers will discover critters and creatures of all stripes, spots, and colors! All entrance fees are included. 

Class Acts...
Chesapeake Academy 3.0: Blended Learning

Cuckoo for Cocoa!

When the weather dips, kindergarteners know just how to warm up! Working hard and playing hard requires the proper fuel! Ms.V treated the kindergarten to hot chocolate to celebrate the snow season. Do you know the proper way to drink hot cocoa? With a napkin to wipe away your mustache!
Kindergarten Takes on the Arctic!

As kindergarten studied the poles of planet Earth, the traditional use of igloos for shelter in the Arctic became a hot topic (no pun intended). So, naturally, students tried building one! Using cloud dough that kindergarteners made for themselves, students shaped bricks, then built the igloos, following information provided in class social studies research.
Discovering Cause and Effect

Second graders are making cause and effect connections in their reading; and this week, they applied the concept to this month's virtual Performing Arts and Lecture Series presentation, Alice, which is a retelling of Alice in Wonderland, presented by the Barter Players. 

After viewing the play, students discussed the decisions Alice made (cause) and the effects of her choices. Working in teams, students constructed a jigsaw visual representing an example of cause and effect and shared it with classmates.
Fourth Grade Decimal Drama

Fourth grade math is demystifying the decimal, starting off with a review of place value! A survey of decimals offered the opportunity to review whole number place value and add in place values less than 1 whole. (I know, what?)

Fourth grade students can name place values from the hundred millions all the way down to the ten thousandths! Students are doing a cut and color activity to the place value name with its digit and then color code each digit according to what place it is in. 

Poetic Elements Prep Students for Spoken Word Presentations

After spending the last week discussing the elements of poetry, students put their knowledge to use by creating spoken word poetry.
  
Working in teams, students created spoken word poems about bullying. According to the National Prevention Bullying Center, in 2020, one in five students reported being the targets of bullies. Spoken word poetry can provide a space for individuals who have been the target of bullying or those who have witnessed it, to tell their stories. It also offers a forum for students to consider intentional inclusivity and the role of bystanders.

Practical Decimals in Sixth Grade

Sixth grade math is working on decimal operations and all their applications in everyday life! Students planned a dinner party for eight people within a $50 budget! Their first task was to calculate the amount they could spend per person ($6.25), and then use the Food Lion circular from this week to shop for ingredients. Students soon realized how hard it was to stay within budget, while having to add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals to work out total costs and costs per person for different items. 
Doodle 4 Google Student Art Contest

Chesapeake Academy eighth grade students will be entering designs in the annual Doodle4Google Student Art Contest by creating a design for the Google homepage that incorporates the Google logo into the theme, “I care for myself by…”  

Coach Allen taught a unit on self care in her health classes, leading students to brainstorm ideas about mental and physical self care. Then in art class, students developed designs to reflect their concept of self care. Students are currently working on final versions to be submitted. The winners will be announced later this spring.

CAPPA Round UP

Activities are starting up as we end the first month of the new year. A big thank you to Eileen Serafin and her hospitality crew for providing a delicious ice cream sundae celebration to the middle school on the last day of the marking period. Next up will be Valentine's celebrations. Be on the lookout for more info coming from your room parents.

Auction planning has started, and you should have received preliminary mailers about it. This is our largest school fundraiser, so it is time to get excited as we prepare for our Intergalactic Gala!
Attitude of Gratitude

  • Thanks to Richard Abbott for donating his problem solving skills to dollars and cents, bricks and mortar, and technology snafus!
  • Thanks to Marshall Novak for driving the bus so that our teams can travel to play sports!
  • Thanks to library volunteers Emily Thomas and Jane Atlas for helping to keep the James Library ready to serve avid readers and inquiring minds!
  • Thanks to all who contributed Birthday Books!
  • Thanks to Ms. May and Ms. Emry and their volunteers who processed the birthday books!
Save the Date

2/7 through 2/11 Parent Partnership Conferences
2/7 Girls Basketball vs. Ware, 4:00 p.m.; JV Boys Bball vs. Boys and Girls Club, 4:30 p.m.
2/9 Academic Awards Assembly, 10:05 a.m.
2/10 JV Boys @ Ware, 4:00 p.m.; V Girls @ Ware, 5:00 p.m.; V Boys @ Ware, 6:00 p.m.
2/11 Pizza Lunch
2/15 ISAC Semifinals, TBD
2/17 ISAC Basketball Tournament, Boys, 5:00 p.m.; Girls 6:30 p.m.
2/17 Pizza Lunch
2/18-2/21 Winter Break
2/23 Faculty Professional Development, 3:30 p.m.
2/23 Tag Day
2/24 Athletics Awards Assembly, 10:05 a.m.
2/25 Pizza Lunch
3/2 PALS, Richmond Ballet, pre-k through eighth grade, 9:30 a.m.
3/2 Dress Uniform
3/4 Interims Mailed
3/4 Pizza Lunch
3/4 V Boys Basketball @ Veritas, 4:00 p.m.
3/11 Pizza Lunch
3/18 Pizza Lunch
3/24 Pizza Lunch
3/25 End of Third Marking Period, Half day for students