Opening New Chapters: The Power of the Novel Study
Did you know that 3rd - 5th graders have the opportunity to engage in novel studies through the CKLA curriculum? These Novel Study Units are where "learning to read" transforms into "loving to read." By diving deep into these specific titles, our students are building more than just literacy—they’re building character:
- Stella Díaz Has Something to Say: Students are finding their own "inner starfish" as they learn about confidence, identity, and the bravery it takes to speak up.
- The Seasons of Styx Malone: This adventure pushes kids to analyze loyalty and friendship, weighing the thrill of the "extraordinary" against the value of home.
- The Science of Breakable Things: A beautiful look at using the scientific method to understand empathy and hope, connecting lab reports to real-life emotions.
The Big Benefit: Novel studies build reading stamina and critical thinking. Instead of just skimming, students learn to track complex themes and see the world through a new lens.
Did you know that 3rd - 5th graders have the opportunity to engage in novel studies through the CKLA curriculum? These Novel Study Units are where "learning to read" transforms into "loving to read." By diving deep into these specific titles, our students are building more than just literacy—they’re building character:
- Stella Díaz Has Something to Say: Students are finding their own "inner starfish" as they learn about confidence, identity, and the bravery it takes to speak up.
- The Seasons of Styx Malone: This adventure pushes kids to analyze loyalty and friendship, weighing the thrill of the "extraordinary" against the value of home.
- The Science of Breakable Things: A beautiful look at using the scientific method to understand empathy and hope, connecting lab reports to real-life emotions.
The Big Benefit: Novel studies build reading stamina and critical thinking. Instead of just skimming, students learn to track complex themes and see the world through a new lens.
Reminder that today, Wednesday, June 10, is a half day and the last day of the school year! ☀️
Find start and dismissal times here: https://5il.co/3jfxa
View the academic calendar here: https://5il.co/3jfx6
For questions, please contact your school directly.
For our final retirement shout out of the year, we want to celebrate Dr. Victoria Derks. For the last nine years, Dr. Derks has served as our Cherry Knoll principal. Her leadership, warmth, and dedication have shaped our school in so many wonderful ways, and she is going to be missed.
Looking back on her time with us, Dr. Derks shared, "I've been proud to be a part of this community. The teachers and staff are top notch. The kids and families are amazing. We've shared so many experiences over these nine years and we have come out the other side, stronger, kinder and better. Thank you for being a part of my journey."
Thank you, Dr. Derks, for your leadership and the lasting impact you leave behind. We're going to miss you and we wish you nothing but the absolute best in your next chapter.
Looking back on her time with us, Dr. Derks shared, "I've been proud to be a part of this community. The teachers and staff are top notch. The kids and families are amazing. We've shared so many experiences over these nine years and we have come out the other side, stronger, kinder and better. Thank you for being a part of my journey."
Thank you, Dr. Derks, for your leadership and the lasting impact you leave behind. We're going to miss you and we wish you nothing but the absolute best in your next chapter.
Reminder that Wednesday, June 10, is a half day and the last day of the school year! ☀️
Find start and dismissal times here: https://5il.co/3jfxa
View the academic calendar here: https://5il.co/3jfx6
For questions, please contact your school directly.
Find start and dismissal times here: https://5il.co/3jfxa
View the academic calendar here: https://5il.co/3jfx6
For questions, please contact your school directly.
Another one of our retirees this year is Mrs. Amy Fewless, 5th grade teacher. She shared this special message, "Although I spent only the final three years of my teaching career at Cherry Knoll, it has been a truly special chapter in my journey. This district has always held a special place in my heart, as both my children and I attended TCAPS. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed by an outstanding staff whose kindness and support led to many cherished new friendships. The students have been a joy to teach, and I have loved watching them grow both academically and socially. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a wonderful school community and will carry many fond memories into retirement."
We are thankful that Mrs. Fewless chose to end her educational career at Cherry Knoll. We wish her the best as she transitions into retirement.
As we finish up our last week of school, we would like to recognize one of this year's retirees, Mr. Gary Schweitzer. For the past 24 years, Mr. Schweitzer has taught 2nd grade, 4th grade, and 5th grade at Cherry Knoll. He shared, "I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the wonderful journey I have experienced. Each year has brought special memories and lasting friendships. Watching students learn, grow, and succeed has been one of the greatest joys of my life. I am deeply thankful for the support of my colleagues, students, and families who have made Cherry Knoll such a special place to work. Although I am retiring from the classroom, I will always cherish the experiences and relationships that have made these years so meaningful."
We wish Mr. Schweitzer the best. Congratulations, Mr. Schweitzer, on a career well spent at Cherry Knoll!
Reminder: There is no school today, Monday, May 25.
Reminder: There will be no school on Monday, May 25, 2026. Enjoy the long weekend!
There will be a Special Election for PTO President on Tuesday, June 2nd at 6:30pm. Candidates are Meg Lau and Maria Ford. The meeting will be held virtually and you must attend to vote. A Class Dojo with the link will be sent out the day before the meeting.
Congratulations to the 2026 graduates! Our former Cherry Knoll student stopped by to visit the building, look at photos, and watch a few videos in their old classroom. They ended the evening with a photo on the Cherry Knoll sign.
Don't forget the Kindergarten Open House today from 4:15-5:15pm.
The May 2026 edition of TCAPS District News is officially live! 🗞️✨
Stay connected with the latest stories, student highlights, and important updates from across our schools.
Mobile Version: 📱https://itl.ink/DistrictNewsMay26
Desktop & Print Version: 💻 https://aptg.co/YbKds7
#GreatCommunityGreatSchools
Miss Brown's 5th grade class had an Egg Drop Competition on Friday. It was inspired by their CKLA novel study “The Science of Breakable Things.”
Our Fourth and Fifth Grade Music Concerts were held yesterday. Congratulations to Mrs. Burnell and all of her students on a job well done!
May 6th was National Walk and Roll to School Day. Our students had the option to walk or ride bikes to Cherry Knoll yesterday morning. This year we had the largest participation of students ever! Fun was had by everyone.
On Thursday, April 30th our third grade students had the opportunity to listen to Aaron Chivis, cultural department manager, from the Eyaawing Museum & Cultural Center as a cumulative activity to our Regions & Cultures: Native Americans CKLA unit.
He shared with the students some of his native history and language. The students enjoyed asking him many questions and learning more about the indigenous tribes we have in our community.
He shared with the students some of his native history and language. The students enjoyed asking him many questions and learning more about the indigenous tribes we have in our community.
We’re Feeling the Love!
A HUGE thank you to the incredible local businesses who have donated to our Cherry Knoll Silent Auction
Because of you, we have an amazing mix of items… from wine tastings and spa packages to family adventures and one-of-a-kind experiences.
Now it’s our turn to show up and support them!
Join us April 24 at Mt. Holiday
Bring a friend
Bid on something amazing
Let’s make this a night to remember for our kids and our community use this link to register: https://charity.pledgeit.org/CKBlackandWhiteParty26
Something for Everyone!
Looking for fun family experiences? We’ve got you covered at the Cherry Knoll Silent Auction!
Zoo passes
Tennis camp
Open skate passes
Mini golf passes
Art experiences
Pop-up movie night kit
Plus tons of gift cards, baskets, and local experiences!
Bid on something fun while supporting Cherry Knoll students—win-win!
April 24 | Mt. Holiday use this link to register: https://charity.pledgeit.org/CKBlackandWhiteParty26
New Auction Item Alert: Teacher Experiences!
We’re so excited to introduce something NEW at this year’s Cherry Knoll Silent Auction… Teacher Experiences!
Your student can spend special time with their favorite teacher. How fun is that?!
Options include:
Music time/lessons
Putt-putt golf outing
Terrarium building
…and more!
These one-of-a-kind experiences are sure to be a hit and make amazing memories for your kids!
Check them out and start bidding on the auction platform now: https://charity.pledgeit.org/CKBlackandWhiteParty26
Don’t wait—these will go fast!
Of the fifty-three teams that competed on April 11th at the 2026 Battle of the Books tournament, 3 had students from Cherry Knoll. We are super proud of these kids who read eight books over a twelve week time period to prepare for the day.
Teams compete in the all-day Tournament with three events to demonstrate their knowledge of the books and show their team strategy and spirit. The day's finale includes recognition of top-scoring teams and an appearance by a well-known children's author.
Upon returning to school it has been fun listening to the children recommend the books and talk about their experience at the battle with their classmates. I see some future leaders in the group!
Teams compete in the all-day Tournament with three events to demonstrate their knowledge of the books and show their team strategy and spirit. The day's finale includes recognition of top-scoring teams and an appearance by a well-known children's author.
Upon returning to school it has been fun listening to the children recommend the books and talk about their experience at the battle with their classmates. I see some future leaders in the group!
