In: 2015-2016 School Year, Headmaster
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“A goal of education is to learn to love that which is worth loving.” – John Hodges

Dear Parents, Students, Faculty, and Staff:

Hip, hip, hooray!  I think that is how the cheer goes…  As you know, Spirit Week begins today.  Recently, I heard someone say that the Spirit Week activities we have scheduled enable us to adopt the types of events conventional “public schools” hold for homecoming week and recast them.  I disagree with that observation on two accounts.  First, I am not sure what other schools do during their spirit weeks or homecoming activities, but in the cases where they have gone off track, I would say what we try to do is to “redeem” them.   Second, to build esprit de corps, or a common spirit at a school, is an important part of building a school culture that has roots in this country’s colleges dating to the 19th century.  Homecomings, or celebrations where schools welcome their graduates home, and pep rallies to cheer on teams, are not new, nor are they specific to public schools; they began at private colleges and were adopted by private and public high schools over time.

A schedule of our spirit week activities, including in-school and evening events follows.  Before I type the schedule, however, I would like to take a moment to discuss the school culture at Founders.  What is a school culture?  A school culture describes the shared principles, virtues, relationships, practices, and traditions that characterize a school.  A school culture should be rooted in goodness, truth, and beauty, and specifically in the school mission and the spirit of our nation.  On this last point, a school is in some ways a microcosm of our nation, and a model of self-government.

My hope is that as a result of the parent meetings we hold, the school messages and publications that are circulated, and the experiences you have had with your students and their teachers, you can see and understand the type of culture we are striving for at Founders.  Our efforts are aimed at a culture of teaching and learning, a culture of high academic, civic, and moral standards, and a culture built on strong relationships.  Since the majority of messages I send pertain to academics and the pursuit of virtue, I thought I would say just a little something about school culture in the context of practices and traditions relating to common school spirit, esprit de corps.

Human beings create and maintain important practices and traditions.  They are also influenced greatly by symbols.  Just look at how much religious or patriotic practices, traditions, and rich symbols touch our lives throughout the year – during holidays, anniversaries, birthdays, etc.  Additionally, in a place like Texas, many people become energized and are positively impacted by athletic traditions and symbols that include seemingly small things such as the singing of God Bless America during what is known in baseball as the seventh inning stretch.  These small things matter.

Here at school we also have daily practices and symbols that help build school culture; some relate to academics, some relate to discipline and school order, and still others relate to extra-curricular activities.  The practices and traditions in the latter category are the newest in the sense that while we have had extra-curricular academic clubs, athletics, and performance groups from the start, these offerings have increased in number and have become enriched with each passing year.

We are in the midst of our second “Spirit Week.”  Practices and traditions surrounding Spirit Week and Homecoming started last fall that may last generations.  These types of activities help build in students affections for school that can greatly enrich their overall experiences.  My hope is that during these times school spirit will grow, and as a result, our students, parents, faculty and staff will develop greater love for, and deeper appreciation of, our school mission and the benefits of a classical education.

We are only in our fourth year at FCA and we’ve accomplished a great deal in a short amount of time.  With esprit de corps in mind, thank you in advance for your support of Spirit Week and for the other activities listed below, and for your general support of Founders Classical Academy as we continue to form our classical school culture.  We look forward to welcoming our first graduates home!

SPIRIT WEEK EVENTS

Monday: Toga Day or Tunic

Students may wear Roman Togas, Greek Tunics, or reasonable facsimile thereof (FYI: Egypt was part of a Greek kingdom and the Roman Empire for centuries). Full guidelines about what constitutes a toga/tunic and how to put one on will be forthcoming. Students must wear shorts and a t-shirt (white) underneath their toga. Sandals are permitted.

Tuesday: 1950’s/Grease The Musical

Students may dress in period garb for the 1950’s. Leather jackets, t-shirts, and greased hair are permitted, as are jeans (belt required). Ladies may wear poodle skirts, pants, or dresses. No bare shoulders, sleeveless shirts or dresses, or low-cut tops. Clothes should not be tight fitting. Closed toed shoes. 

Wednesday: Hero Day & Movie Night

Students may dress up as their favorite hero from literature or comic books. Students may wear jeans with superhero t-shirts and socks of their choosing. No full-body suits. No masks, face paint, or wigs. Hats may be worn outside.

Movie Night:  Upper school families will watch Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark (the Ark was discovered in Egypt). The movie is rated PG, but parental discretion is advised, especially for younger students. 

Thursday: Dress like a teacher/Dress-up day & Evening Pep Rally / Bonfire

Students may “dress to impress” with suit and tie, a blazer, or other gender appropriate business attire. Students may style their outfits to imitate their favorite teacher if they wish. Fake beards (within reason) are permitted, wigs are not. Skirts and dresses must meet the same length requirements as normal school attire. Extra points for realism.

The Pep Rally is for the entire school and begins at 6:00 p.m.

After the pep rally, there will be live music and recitations from FCA students and teachers.  Student Council is seeking donations of ingredients to make S’mores. Give ingredients to your class rep. We are asking for the following: 6th Grade – Chocolate, 7th Grade – Graham Crackers, 8th Grade – Marshmallows,   9th Grade – Chocolate, 10th Grade – Graham Crackers, 11th Grade – Marshmallows, Seniors – Skewers

Friday: Spirit Day & Homecoming Football Game

During the school day, students may wear Founder’s Spirit t-shirts or jerseys with jeans. Socks of the student’s choosing are permitted. Students wear mums this day.

The homecoming game will be held at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday: High School Homecoming Dance, 7:30 p.m.

*Penny Wars:  The Penny Wars competition takes place each morning during Spirit Week.

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REMINDERS

Write-A-Check Campaign:  The Write-A-Check Campaign kicked off last week with the North Texas Giving Day event.  Thanks to families that have already contributed to this campaign.  If you have not made a donation, please contribute as this is the key fundraiser PTO sponsors during the school year, and all the proceeds benefit our school (i.e. our children).

*Read the attached letter and the write-a-check campaign form.

Coach’s Corner:  Congratulations to our scholar athletes and their coaches.  Last Thursday, our middle school volleyball team defeated Quest Lewisville, and on Friday evening the JV and varsity teams defeated Harmony Carrollton.  Also on Friday evening, our high school football team played in a tough defensive game losing to Dallas Academy 8-0.  Saturday morning, the varsity ladies placed first in their cross country meet at Trinity Park in Fort Worth with four runners in the top ten; Jordan Ness placed first. The varsity boys placed second as a team with three in the top ten; Alec Lawrence placed second overall.  The middle school football team also played in their second game of the season on Saturday and beat Corinth Classical Academy to advance to 2-0.

This Week’s Spirit Week Athletic Events

Monday – MS volleyball vs. Quest Coppell, in our gym at 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday – MS volleyball at home vs Imagine International at 5:30 p.m., JV plays away at Imagine Intl. and Varsity plays at home vs Advantage Grand Prairie at 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday – JV volleyball play away at Pegasus 6:30.

Thursday – Pep Rally at 6 p.m.

Friday – Homecoming Football Game vs. Westlake Academy at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday – Cross Country Meet at TCC Northeast Campus at 8:00 a.m.

Volleyball Senior Night: Come support our amazing senior volleyball players. On Tuesday, September 29th at 6:30 p.m., our Varsity girls will take on ILT Garland at home. Come cheer them on and bid farewell to the senior players as they are recognized for their dedication to FCA.

Yearbook Meeting: Do you want an amazing yearbook this year?  We Need You! Come find out how you can be part of the FCA Yearbook team.  The meeting will take place on Friday, September 25 from 4:00-4:30 pm in the grammar school computer lab.

Scholastic Book Fair (PTO): Our annual K-5 Scholastic Book Fair will begin next Monday, September 28th.  Mark your calendar with the dates and times below and stay tuned for additional information:  Please open the sign-up link to volunteer some time at the fair.

Monday 7:30-8:30 a.m., 2:30-4:00 p.m.

Tuesday 2:30-4:00 p.m.

Wednesday 2:30-4:00 p.m.

Thursday 2:30-4:00 p.m.

Friday 7:30-8:30 a.m., 2:30-4:00 p.m.

Saturday 9:00-12:00 a.m. – Taco’s with Dad

Fun Food Friday (PTO):

October Fun Food Friday forms are up and running!  Payments are due by 3:00PM Friday, September 25.  Don’t get caught up in the hustle of Homecoming week and forget to you place your order.  Take a moment and order today!  Cash/Check Link      Credit Card Link      PayPal Link

Are you excited when you don’t have to make lunch for your kids on Fun Food Friday day?  If you are, please take a moment to ensure that this program continues throughout the year by volunteering to help our team serve the students their “fun food Friday” meals. We know they would love the support as they serve your kids each week!  Sign up here.  

FCA Volunteers: There are many opportunities to volunteer. You will find some on the FCA PTO, FCA Boosters, and Watch D.O.G.S. websites. For all other volunteering opportunities you can find them at FCAVolunteers.com. These volunteer opportunities include: car line, grammar lunch, middle lunch, upper lunch, upper office, and after school care. To volunteer, please complete a RES Volunteer Application and pick a volunteer spot.

Online School Calendar and Founders Mobile App:  Keep up with Founders activities and events here.   iPhone users may also download the “FCA Mobile” app to access the school calendar and other key Founders information.

 

Kind Regards,

 

Jason Caros

Headmaster, Founders Classical Academy

469-464-3415 (grammar school)

972-219-2370 (upper school)

www.FoundersLewisville.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In: 2015-2016 School Year, Headmaster, Membership
Tagged: ,

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“If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be.” – Thomas Jefferson

Dear Parents, Students, Faculty, and Staff:

Last week we commemorated Patriot Day on September 11th, and this Thursday we will observe  “Constitution Day.”  Constitution Day commemorates the creation and signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787, by the visionary delegates to the constitutional convention held in Philadelphia.  I referred to the framers of The Constitution as visionary because they gave us a framework for government that is good, true, and in its own way, beautiful.  Beyond those classical descriptors, I can say that The U.S. Constitution, and The Declaration of Independence that preceded it, are among the most influential documents in the history of the world, and among the most enduring.

In 1956, and again in 2005, the U.S. Congress and U.S. Senate passed acts designating this week as Constitution Week and September 17th of each year as Constitution Day. The observance is meant to encourage us to learn more about the Constitution –  schools and government offices are to provide educational programs to promote a better understanding on the Constitution.

Here at Founders we are happy to promote The U.S. Constitution on the 17th, but promoting The Constitution and the principles expressed in our Declaration of Independence are part and parcel of what we are all about.  Teachers will emphasize the Constitution tomorrow, but teachers will also instruct about it in more in-depth ways during the course of their history lessons during the school year.

At this week’s Hot Chocolate with the Headmaster session, I will discuss civic education at Founders, which will necessarily include discussion of our Constitution.  If you are interested in a refresher on The Constitution, U.S. History, or the principles of our free market economy, I encourage you to sign up for one or more of Hillsdale College’s free online courses.  Here are two possibilities:  Click here for Constitution 101: The Meaning and History of the Constitution, or here for Economics 101: The Principles of Free Market Economics.

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REMINDERS:

Patriot Day: Last Friday, we remembered September 11th with beautiful performances of The Star Spangled Banner by our advanced orchestra members during morning assembly, and our chamber choir during a special afternoon upper school assembly.  Speaking to the upper school students was Mr. Sujo John, an FCA parent and survivor of the attack on the Twin Towers in New York City.   Thank you to Mr. John for sharing his experience and testimony, and thanks to Mrs. Cardenas, another one of our parents, for scheduling Mr. John to speak to our students and faculty.

Riggs Parent Night: This evening, a presentation on the Riggs orthography methods will be given to parents of early grammar school parents.  The session is especially important for parents of K-3 students that are new to Founders.  The session will be held in the upper school cafeteria at 6:00 p.m.

Performing Arts Parent Meeting:  Do your student want to audition for a school play or musical? Is he or she a member of any performance ensemble at FCA such as Chorus, Orchestra, Drumline, or Theatre?  Is he or she passionate about the arts and have an interest in the future of these programs at Founders?  Tomorrow, at 6:00 p.m., there will be a mandatory FCA performing arts parent meeting in the upper school cafeteria.  Topics for discussion include upcoming events and auditions, program needs, and our vision for the future of the performing arts FCA.

Hot Chocolate with the Headmaster: This Wednesday morning, September 16th, at 8:10 a.m. after student drop-off, the second Hot Chocolate with the Headmaster (HCWTH) will take place in the grammar school cafeteria – in the building next door to the grammar school office building.  In this session, I will discuss our civic education emphasis, what we teach at Founders about our nation and about citizenship.  For parents unable to make these sessions, notes will be posted to our web site and added to the FCA Mobile app.  Hot chocolate and coffee will be provided.  Reminder: HCWTH  meetings are not meant for Q & A on a variety of school questions, nor for questions about a particular child.  Presentations and discussions will pertain to the topic at hand.

Boosters Welcome Meeting: Would you like to learn about the athletic program at Founders Classical Academy?  Then join us for a FCA Athletic Orientation, this Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in the upper school cafeteria. There will be a short presentation followed by a meet and great opportunity with the coaches. Middle school and high school students and parents are invited to attend. Questions?  Email Coach Gray at Dgray@responsiveed.com or the FCA Athletic Booster Club at FCAEaglesPride@gmail.com.

PTO Update:  Write-A-Check Campaign kicks off this Thursday, September 17, 2015 (6 am – Midnight) with the North Texas Giving Day.  Give $25 or more to Founders Classical Academy PTO on Thursday through this link (also found on our PTO website) and your donation will be multiplied.  Please remember to log-on and donate on Thursday. Thank you!

PTO is also sponsoring a spirit night at Chick Fil A this Thursday, September 17.  Please join the PTO and fellow Eagles families at our Chick-Fil-A Spirit Day on 749 West Main Street in Lewisville.  Mention FCA ALL DAY in the restaurant, or the drive thru, and a portion of your purchase will be donated to our campus.  We look forward to seeing you.

Coach’s Corner:  Congratulations to FCA’s scholar athletes and to our coaches on their contests on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.  On Thursday night, our 6th -8th  grade volleyball team played a tough road game at ILT Keller and came up short losing in two sets, but played a strong game against an experienced team.  Friday night, our JV volleyball team defeated ILT Garland in two games. Varsity also won against ILT, in 4 sets.  After losing the first set 25-22, they came back to win the next three, 25-21, 25-10, 17-15.  The high school football team beat Leverett’s Chapel 36-16.  This was a hard hitting game and the eagles overcame 5 turnovers to up their record to 2-1.  You can click here to read an article about the game.  Saturday morning  was our second cross country meet of the season.  The varsity men’s team earned second place with Alec Lawrence coming in first for the second week in a row.  The varsity ladies took 4th place.   Also playing Saturday morning was the middle school flag football team. They won their first game against the Heights, 39-13.  I’m very proud of each and every student athlete and the coaches for their accomplishments this past week.  We are looking forward to another successful week.  This week’s athletics schedule appears at the bottom of this message. GO EAGLES!!!!!!!!!!!!  – Mr. Gray, Athletic Director

Spirit Week:  Next week, Spirit Week will take place from September 21st through Saturday, September 26th, ending with the homecoming football game and the high school homecoming dance.  For Spirit Week dress-up information, read the information at the bottom of this message.  Additional information about Thursday’s after school pep rally is forthcoming.

Penny Wars:  A Penny Wars competition will take place during Spirit Week.  Each grade will have a bucket out before school from 7:15-7:45 a.m. (K-7th buckets will be in the gym & 8th-12th grade buckets will be in front of the Upper School Building).  Teachers will receive rules for Penny Wars this week.   Grades K-7 and Grades 8-12 will be competing in two epic competitions. Daily winners will be awarded with a trophy-for-a-day and the winners for the week will earn an extra Spirit Day for their grade level. Let the strategies begin!  All proceeds benefit the 2016 Senior Trip.

Scholastic Book Fair: Our annual K-5 Scholastic Book Fair will take place at the end of this month, beginning on Monday, September 28th.  Mark your calendar with the dates and times below and stay tuned for additional information:

Monday 7:30-8:30 a.m., 2:30-4:00 p.m.

Tuesday 2:30-4:00 p.m.

Wednesday 2:30-4:00 p.m.

Thursday 2:30-4:00 p.m.

Friday 7:30-8:30 a.m., 2:30-4:00 p.m.

Saturday 9:00-11:00 a.m. – Donuts with Dad

FCA Volunteers: There are many opportunities to volunteer. You will find some on the FCA PTO, FCA Boosters, and Watch D.O.G.S. websites. For all other volunteering opportunities you can find them at FCAVolunteers.com. These volunteer opportunities include: car line, grammar lunch, middle lunch, upper lunch, upper office, and after school care. To volunteer, please complete a RES Volunteer Application and pick a volunteer spot.

Online School Calendar and Founders Mobile App:  Keep up with Founders activities and events here.   iPhone users may also download the “FCA Mobile” app to access the school calendar and other key Founders information.

Kind Regards,

 

Jason Caros

Headmaster, Founders Classical Academy

469-464-3415 (grammar school)

972-219-2370 (upper school)

www.FoundersLewisville.com

 

FCA Sports Schedule

Varsity Volleyball

15-Sep Tue 5:30 PM        Harmony Ft Worth vs. Founders Classical

1010 Bellaire Blvd, Lewisville

 

18-Sep Fri 6:30 PM           Harmony Carrollton  vs.  Founders Classical

1010 Bellaire Blvd, Lewisville

 

Middle School Volleyball

17-Sep Thu 5:30 PM            Quest Lewisville vs. Founders Classical

1010 Bellaire Blvd, Lewisville

 

Junior Varsity Volleyball

18-Sep Fri 5:30 PM                  Luna Prep vs. Founders Classical

1010 Bellaire Blvd, Lewisville

 

Varsity Football

18-Sep Fri 7:00 pm                      FCA Eagles vs. Dallas Academy

Josey Ranch “Thomas Field” smaller one

1440 Keller Springs

Carrollton

 

Cross Country

19-Sep Sat 9:00 am

Trinity Park, Fort Worth

 

Flag Football

19-Sep Sat. 9:00 am                    FCA Eagles vs. Corinth Classical

7500 Red River Dr.

Plano

 

 

Spirit Week Attire:

This year, Founders will celebrate Spirit Week and Homecoming during the final full week of September (21st – 26th).  The Homecoming game will take place on Friday, the 25th, and the High School.  The high school Homecoming dance will be on Saturday the 26th.

 

For each day of the week, students may dress up according to a designated theme. Each day will have specific rules regarding dress code and student behavior. These rules must be followed in order to retain the privilege for future years. Each day, students who choose not to dress up in theme must be in normal school attire. This year, the dress up themes are: 

Monday: Toga Day or Tunic

Students may wear Roman Togas, Greek Tunics, or reasonable facsimile thereof. Full guidelines about what constitutes a toga/tunic and how to put one on will be forthcoming. Students must wear shorts and a t-shirt (white) underneath their toga. Sandals are permitted. 

Tuesday: 1950’s/Grease The Musical

Students may dress in period garb for the 1950’s. Leather jackets, tshirts, and greased hair are permitted, as are jeans (belt required). Ladies may wear poodle skirts, pants, or dresses`. No bare shoulders, sleeveless shirts or dresses, or lowcut tops. Clothes should not be tight fitting. Closed toed shoes. 

Wednesday: Hero Day.

Students may dress up as their favorite hero from literature or comic books. Students may wear jeans with superhero t-shirts and socks of their choosing. No full-body suits. No masks, face paint, or wigs. Hats may be worn outside.

Thursday: Dress like a teacher/Dress-up day.

Students may “dress to impress” with suit and tie, a blazer, or other gender appropriate business attire. Students may style their outfits to imitate their favorite teacher if they wish. Fake beards (within reason) are permitted, wigs are not. Skirts and dresses must meet the same length requirements as normal school attire. Extra points for realism.

Friday: Spirit Day.

Students may wear Founder’s Spirit t-shirts or jerseys with jeans. Socks of the student’s choosing are permitted. Students wear mums this day. 

General rules to be followed:

Close toed shoes (except sandals on Toga Day or dress shoes for Dress-up Day). Shirts must have sleeves (no tank tops or spaghetti straps). Normal dress code earrings (no dangling). No pullover hoodies or skinny jeans. No low-cut tops or dresses.  All dresses and skirts must be the length of normal uniform outfits. No artificial coloring of the face, body, or hair with paint or dyes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

In: 2015-2016 School Year, Headmaster, Membership
Tagged: ,

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“A pupil from whom nothing is ever demanded which he cannot do, never does all he can.” – John Stuart Mill

Dear Parents, Students, Faculty, and Staff:

Now that we have the first week of school under our proverbial belts, and we have had a little time to work out some of the summer kinks, it is important to highlight the importance of homework.  Homework is an essential part of learning. There is no doubt homework done right leads to great learning gains.  Research from both cognitive science, and generations of experience prove this to be true.  Having said this, it is important to underscore the following: homework should be targeted and not assigned simply for the sake of giving homework.

There are three types of targeted homework:

  1. Practice: one example involves student practice in math concepts learned in class earlier in the day.  The saying “practice makes perfect” does not only apply to music or athletics, but it most definitely relates to learning academic concepts. The age-old and classical adage “repetition is the mother of all learning” also applies. There is no substitute for time on task. Students need practice outside the classroom if concepts are to become part of their long-term memory/learning.
  2. Preparation for new content that will be delivered the next day: this typically involves short assignments that include background reading and “hook exercises” or “preview assignments.” These prepare students so they can hit the ground running when they enter into class the next day. If a teacher is going to begin a new novel tomorrow, it helps a great deal if students have some background knowledge coming in. Background reading, and hooks or previews help get students ready.
  3.  Long term assignments: these include essays, research papers, history or science fair projects, etc., and involve work completed inside the classroom and work done at home, usually over an extended number of days.

Homework length:

There is a general rule of thumb that is both connected to research and traditional practice. The rule is approximately 10 minutes of homework per grade level, plus some additional reading. In kindergarten, this equates to 10 minutes of homework plus some reading time (parents are the ones that typically read to children at this age, especially at the beginning of the year). In 8th grade, this means about 1 ½ hours of homework, plus a small amount of additional reading.

I realize some students take longer than the “rule of thumb” to complete homework. One important consideration with homework length, especially at the beginning of the year, pertains to the students themselves. They will “get in shape” so to speak (or better shape). Once they learn teacher expectations and gain more experience in reading, writing, etc., they will complete homework faster.  Regarding teacher expectations, sometimes students go above and beyond with homework.  This year I have asked teachers to take extra time to make sure students know just what it is they are expected to do.  Here is an example of a message on this topic excerpted from Mr. Rogers’ 10th grade course syllabus:

“In general, homework assignments are designed to be short. Unless studying for tests, or when dealing with particularly difficult readings (certain philosophers we’ll be meeting may be guilty of this), students should not expect to spend more than about twenty to thirty minutes a night on homework, maximum. You should not feel as if you have to master and remember every single fact and date in a reading the first time through. Aim for a general understanding at first, the deeper knowledge will come through class discussion. N.B: If you find yourself spending more than half an hour on homework on a regular basis, please talk to Mr. Rogers.” 

One thing parents need to make a priority is to ensure their children have a quiet place to work on homework, free from the distractions of electronic devices, television, music, siblings, etc.  Parents and students are sometimes amazed at how much schoolwork can be accomplished in a short time, in solitude.

Study hall: it is important for 6th – 12th students to take full advantage of this time each day. Not only can they complete 30 minutes of homework in study hall, but they can get much needed assistance from teachers as well (and from student tutors who belong to National Honor Society).

Parent Communication:

Make sure to ask questions or express concerns about issues in the classroom.  If you have a question about homework or another classroom matter, please go directly to your child’s teacher.  Our teachers are professionals and serve as teachers because they want the best academic experience for your child.

Furthermore, please follow our school’s contact protocols when you make contact on important issues. Go to the teacher 1st, a school administrator 2nd, and to the Responsive Ed central office administration 3rd, unless you have an emergency.

Also, please send notes of encouragement to teachers. They are working incredibly hard each day to bring the best education to your child.

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REMINDERS:

Chess Club for Upper School Students: 6th – 12th grade students interested in chess may attend the first meeting of the chess club tomorrow at 3:35 p.m. in the upper school library.  Meetings will be held on Tuesdays from 3:35 p.m. to 4:35 p.m.  Send inquires to Mr. T. Grzesiak at tgrzesiak@responsiveed.com

Chess Club for Grammar School: K-5 students will meet Tuesdays this fall from 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 pm.  The first meeting is Tuesday, September 8th. Register online at USA Chess website:  www.activelearningcamps.com

Hot Chocolate with the Headmaster:  This Wednesday morning, September 2nd,  after student drop-off, the first Hot Chocolate with the Headmaster will take place in the grammar school cafeteria – in the building next door to the grammar school office building.  Hot Chocolate with the Headmaster refers to a series of meetings for parents beginning at 8:10 a.m. and lasting approximately 30 minutes. I will spend time during each session speaking about curriculum related issues, school growth, and various school policies.  Generally speaking, sessions will be held every other week; check the online school calendar.  These meetings are not meant for Q & A on a variety of school questions, nor for questions about a particular child.  Presentations and discussions will pertain to the topic at hand. In the first session, I will discuss the benefits and uniqueness of classical education as it relates to education in most contemporary schools (public and private).  I plan to let you know what a classical education produces, so to speak, and where you should expect your children to go from here.  For parents unable to make these sessions, notes will be posted to our web site and added to the FCA Mobile app.  Yes, hot chocolate will be provided.

Spirit Day: This Friday is Spirit Day.  On the first Friday of each month, students may wear any approved spirit wear t-shirts, including shirts approved for extra-curricular clubs, honor societies, fine arts performance groups, and FCA sports teams.  Students that do not wear spirit shirts must wear school uniform shirts.  Students may wear Blue Jeans without holes, without slits, and must be free of decorations or embellishments; students may not wear skinny or baggy jeans.  If students are not wearing spirit wear they must be in uniform.

Car Line: We have had a number of complaints from our neighbors in the sub-division across the street from our campus. In the afternoon, some parents park on the street in the neighborhood and block mailboxes causing mail to go undelivered, and others park around curbs making it difficult for residents to pull in safely.  Parking on residential streets is not illegal in many areas, however, I urge you to stay in our carline, which should move quicker this week.  If you park anywhere outside of our school campus, please park in legal areas and please be considerate to local residents.  Walkers, please remember that we have a new system I place; the parking lot at Westside Baptist Church is available in the afternoons.

K-5 Curriculum Maps and 6-12 Course Syllabi:  To get a picture the academic content for the year in each grade level and course, click here.

Online Gradebook:  Over the last few years, we have used an online gradebook called EngradePro.  Recently, Responsive Ed has adopted a new gradebook platform for all of its schools called Jupiter IO.  We are currently setting up the new gradebook for use and expect you to have access over the next several days.  Jupiter IO will enable parents and students to view grades, homework, academic calendar items, and discipline information at the click of a button (or some buttons); you, your child, and your child’s teacher will also be able to communicate within the platform.  Click here for a Jupiter IO demo.   While we are in the set-up mode, please communicate with teacher if you have questions concerning grades.  Grammar school parents should check student folders each day for newsletters, assignments, memo’s, and graded papers.

Parent Teacher Organization: The first Fun Food Friday order form is due on Wednesday, September 2nd.  Please use this link to order your meals.  All orders MUST be placed on-line as NO paper forms will be accepted this year.  Our first delivery date is Friday, September 11.  The menu choices are not the same for upper and grammar students so please be very careful to select items that are being served to your student’s grade level.

FFF Needs Your Help.  If you are available for an hour or two to help distribute food on Fridays, please go to our “sign up genius.”  We would love for you to join us!  http://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b0d4eabae2fa75-funfood

If you have any questions, at any time, please feel free to contact your FFF Team, Doreen Brown and Laura Hill, doreenFCAmom@gmail.com

Our first McTeacher Night is Thursday, September 3 and our fifth grade teacher team is hosting the event at McDonald’s at 1201 Justin Road, Lewisville.  Please stop by and say hello to our teachers and staff.  Any purchase made between 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. in the drive thru or restaurant earns money for these teachers.  Please remember to mention FCA when you order.   See you there!

Download and read this month’s PTO newsletter here.

Watch D.O.G.S: Pizza Night, the kick-off meeting for the Watch D.O.G.S. will be held on Thursday, September 10th, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.  Dads, uncles, grandfathers and other male father figures are welcome to attend, along with students.  To become a Watch D.O.G. or to volunteer in general, please complete a volunteer form.

Coach’s Corner:  Congratulations to our varsity volleyball team as they opened their season with a 2nd place finish last weekend in the A Plus Academy Tournament; they finished the tournament with a record of 4 wins and 1 loss; they came a hair away from winning the tournament.  The football team had their opener Friday night at Josey Ranch Stadium.  After a long battle your Eagles came up short against Dallas Lakehill Academy, 66 to Founders Classical Academy 52.  Congratulations to the varsity cheerleaders on a strong showing, and to the drill team members that made their debut and performed well at halftime.  Coming up this week:  Friday night at 7:00 p.m., the football team will play Universal Academy of Irving at Josey Ranch Park in Carrollton (1414 Keller Springs Rd, Carrollton, TX 75006), and the cross country team will compete in their first meet Saturday morning.  Check the online calendar for CC location updates.

Spirit Week:  In less than a month, Spirit Week will take place from September 21st through Friday, September 25th, ending with the homecoming football game and the high school homecoming dance.  Your Eagles Cheerleaders spiritedly decorate the Grammar and Upper School buildings each year.  Last year they spent over $1200 on this endeavor.  This year, Cheer is asking our any willing and able Founders Families to help.  To donate, please visit www.founderscheer.com. Please help cheer make Homecoming a Winning Week.  A Spirit Week activities schedule is forthcoming…

Online School Calendar and Founders Mobile App:  Keep up with Founders activities and events here.   iPhone users may also download the “FCA Mobile” app to access the school calendar and other key Founders information.

Thank you for helping to make our first week a great one.

Kind Regards,

 

Jason Caros

Headmaster, Founders Classical Academy

469-464-3415 (grammar school)

972-219-2370 (upper school)

www.FoundersLewisville.com