2 of 13

DECEMBER

Christmas Lights

Candles

Disability day

Sock day

Ninja day

Put your

own

shoe on

Christ-

mas

movie

Horse Day

Hard Candy Day

Pudding Day

Maple Syrup

Day

Ginger-

bread house

Day

Chocolate candy day

Christ-

mas/ New Years Eve

Thank-

You

Note day

Re-

gifting

Day

Cotton candy day

C Brownie day

Llama

Day

Nobel prize day

App day

Monkey day

Cup cake day

Toy day

Twin day

Games day

Flashlight day

Christmas

eve

Fruitcake

day

Cello day

Bacon day

Christmas

By: Ella Sandu

Christmas is an annual Christian holiday celebrating Christ’s birth, in Bethlehem, on December 25. On this day people will celebrate by exchanging gifts, decorating their homes, throwing parades or parties, and sharing food. Some overall favorites to do on Christmas include buying a Christmas tree, decorating a gingerbread house, and doing advent calendars.

International; Disabilities Day

By: Mariah Galvez

International Disability Day falls on December 3. International Disability Day is a day where we celebrate the importance of the rights of disabled people, so they can participate equally with others. We can celebrate this day by strengthening discrimination policies and improving accessibility.

3 of 13

December Birthdays! /

December 1

Alyn Avila Martinez

Rio Espinoza

Eric Estrada

Alanni Navarro

Elias Vega Alarcon

Mrs. Medina

December 3

Gabriel Chung

December 10

Leandro Torres

December 21

Valerie Rodriguez

December 8

Ashlynn Greenberg

December 4

Naima Palacio

Alex Venancio Julian

December 6

Jacob Ortegon

December 7

Christian Hernandez Ortiz

Kyle Taff

December 12

Yael Rosales

December 16

James Melton

December 18

Mrs. Gala

December 19

Mrs. Frank

Evelyn Martinez Perez

December 20

Balencia Lawrence

Antonio Martinez

December 22

Vanessa Vences

December 23

Andrew Gonzales

December 24

Junius Fredders

Oscar Pena

December 26

Ivan Zotero Gutierrez

December 27

Erasmo Frausto-Elizarraras

Woodlynn Granaroli

December 31

Dominick Lemus Vargas

December 30

Yoselyn Pascual Aguirre

Darlie Garcia

Brody McCaskey

Ozyris Zuniga

Hanukkah

By: Ayla Soicher

Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that is celebrated for 8 days and 8 nights. It is also known as the Festival of Lights. It celebrates the candle that was only supposed to last one day. Instead, the singular candle burned for 8 days. This was after a great battle when no oil was left for lamps. The second temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by King Antiochus, who forbade the Jews to practice their religion. The Maccabees managed to defeat King Antiochus and that is why Hanukkah is celebrated by Jews all over the world today.

Kwanzaa

By: Harper Rowbottom

Kwanzaa is an annual celebration for the African-Americans that is celebrated from December 26, to January 1. It is celebrated to recognize family, values, history, community, and culture. Kwanzaa was started in 1966 by Maulana Ndabezitha Karenga, The primary symbols of Kwanzaa are the seven candles Mishumaa Saba. Some main traditions of Kwanzaa are, singing and dancing, storytelling, poetry reading, African drumming, and feasting.

4 of 13

Movie Review

Home Alone

By: Yoselyn Lara

Home Alone is a timeless classic comedy film directed by Chris Columbus starring Macaulay Culkin. The film tells the story of eight-year-old Kevin McCallister, who is accidentally left behind by his family during a Christmas vacation. Kevin soon discovers that he is the only one at home and takes advantage of his newfound freedom. However, his joy is short-lived when he discovers two burglars planning to rob his house. The film's plot is simple yet brilliantly executed, making it a must-watch family movie during the holiday season. It is my favorite Christmas movie, and I highly recommend it.

Winter Solstice

By Gioia Martins

The Winter Solstice is also called the Hibernal Solstice. It is the longest night and shortest day of the year. It occurs when one of the earth’s poles is the farthest away it can be from the sun. It’s happening on December 21 this year and some people celebrate on this day. There are many ways to celebrate this, like hanging out with family and friends. After the Winter Solstice passes, we gain more daylight. How will you celebrate this day?

Ugly Sweater Day

By: Khloe Gonzalez

Ugly Sweater Day is a day when everyone wears an ugly Christmas sweater. This holiday is always the third Friday of December. This year National Ugly Sweater Day is on December 15. Ugly sweaters usually include decorations attached to them. For example, a sweater could have jingle bells attached to it. Another example is that some sweaters have bows attached, and some even have Christmas lights. Even if you don't celebrate Christmas, Ugly Sweater Day is always a fun and entertaining thing to do, especially at school.

Hunger Games Book Review

By Eileen Solorzano Bateson

The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins, is a book that will leave you breathless. This dystopian fiction is packed with interesting characters and an intense plot that will keep you on the edge of your seat. If you're a fan of survival, thrillers, or apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic stories, then this is the book for you. Trust me, you won't be able to put it down!

5 of 13

Teacher Interview

By: Anis Bernal

Anis: Why were you gone for half of the

first semester?

Mr. Campuzano: I was gone for the first 10 weeks of school because I was on paternity leave. I was at home with our 3-month-old daughter, Zaila (she's 6 months now). It was time I used to bond with her and to build a relationship with her. It was a unique experience because I don't think I'll ever get 10 weeks to be home with just her again, so I really appreciated that opportunity!

Anis: How do you feel being back on the school campus?

Mr. Campuzano: I was a little anxious at first! Mostly because the school year had already started and I had not met my students yet. I knew that my students would have already had routines down and a set way of doing things, so I was a little nervous about how they would respond to me coming in and changing things up! Luckily, all of my students have been wonderful and very welcoming, which has made my experience coming back great! Now, I'm just excited to spend the rest of the school year with them and to continue building a relationship with them.

Anis: What are your plans for winter break?

Mr. . Campuzano: My plan for winter break is to spend time with my family, recharge, and eat good food! My family loves to be outdoors and we're lucky enough to live in an area where the weather is almost always nice, so it works out perfectly! Hopefully, we will go for bike rides, walks, and trips to the park!

Kid in the Quad

By: Mila Martins

What's your favorite holiday movie?

Gwyn

-The Christmas Chronicles

Fiona

- Nightmare Before Christmas

Isabella

-Elf

Everest

-Nightmare Before Christmas

Tilly

-Coraline

Intro To Agriculture Elective

By: Ayla Soicher

CMS offers an Intro To Agriculture class at the high school for 8th graders. The students get dropped off there every morning instead of at the middle school. A bus takes us back in time for second period. So far we have learned all about pigs, cattle, sheep, chickens, and much more. We have learned how to ear notch pigs and brand cattle. We have done many interesting labs such as a food tasting lab, ear notching paper pig ears, and making our own brand out of pipe cleaners. On Wednesdays we learn all about FFA. This class is a great way to see if we want to continue with Agriculture and FFA in high school.

CHS Culinary Program

By Gwyndolyn Hultman

A new elective available for 8th graders is Culinary. To get to CHS someone will have to drive you or walk. You will be bussed back after the class. The bus can’t take bikes, scooters, or skateboards. The first two weeks we learned all about food diseases and how to be safe in a kitchen. Every week after that we have made food we get to eat. We’ve made cookies, pizza rolls, biscuits, mashed potatoes, and more. This class has taught us how to properly hold and use knives as well as how to properly clean a workstation to prevent food-borne illnesses. I love this class and I think you guys would love it too!

6 of 13

Horoscope,

Leo

Snowman

Your

Your Christmas item

By:Isabella Ramirez

Aries

Christmas tree

Taurus

Present

Libra

Candy cane

Cancer Capricorn Scorpio Virgo

Stocking Christmas cookies Ornaments Gingerbread

Gemini

Peppermint

Pisces Aquarius Sagittarius

Mistletoe Santa Reindeer

7 of 13

Sports

Rugby World Cup

By Brianna Redfield

The Rugby World Cup is a men's rugby union tournament contested every four years between the top international teams. The winners of which are recognised as the World champions of the sport. The tournament is administered by World Rugby, the sport's international governing body. There are 24 teams in the whole Rugby World Cup. The Rugby World Cup was founded in 1987 by two countries, New Zealand and Australia. They decided to host the first-ever tournament together. Fans from all over the world watched as teams competed for the top spot. The team from New Zealand, known as the All Blacks, proved they were the best. The last game of the Rugby World Cup this year was Saturday October 28 and the game was New Zealand, who had 11 points and South Africa who had 12 points and the winner was obviously South Africa.

Cricket World Cup

By: Christopher contreras

Cricket has officially come to an end and Australia is the champion beating out India, 241-240. They have now won 5 titles. Australia has the most wins in the Cricket World Cup. Can they take home the 2027 title?The 2027 World Cup will be hosted in South Africa or Zimbabwe.

CMS After School Volleyball

By: Eileen Solorzano-Bateson

Participating in after-school volleyball is an incredibly fun and exhilarating experience for all those who have joined! Our skilled coach leads us through dynamic and engaging drills. Our exercises are designed to elevate our technique and skills to the next level. During our sessions, we learn various teamwork strategies, including communication and coordination which are all essential elements of playing volleyball. Additionally, we have the opportunity to practice our volleyball techniques, such as serving, passing, and hitting which are crucial for becoming a successful player. Overall, after-school volleyball is an excellent activity that many people enjoy!

8 of 13

Ms. Leiter loved teaching and students related to her because her inner child was alive and thriving. She also inspired many adults because she reminded them that it is not only okay to have fun but healthy for their spirit. She enjoyed life fully and taught us all how to as well with all her joy and humor.

Ms. Faust

Ms. Leiter was an incredible teacher - not only to her students, but also to the other teachers who were fortunate enough to work alongside her. She brought people together during tough times through food, fun, and laughs - lots of laughs! Ms. Leiter will be dearly missed but will always be remembered for the joy and love she generously shared.

Ms. Agnew

Remembering Ms. Leiter

March 19, 1962 - November 13, 2023

I've known Debra Leiter only for a brief time but I was immediately captivated by her teaching 8th grade science in such a fun and engaging way that I was looking forward to her teaching my own children. Debra's personality and teaching style will continue to be a source of inspiration for me.

Mrs. Martins

Years ago the science dept. used to go on weekend field trips with students. Mrs. Leiter had the idea to play a prank on a fellow teacher. We went in and short-sheeted the bed, stuffed socks in shoes and did other silly things. The whole time she was giggling her infectious giggle.

Mrs. Castagna

On a personal level, I was so grateful that Ms. Leiter had a nutrition science degree which allowed her to take over the Home Ec classes. If she hadn’t been there I’m sure they would have eliminated the program. She stepped in, did a great job, and add her own special touches.

Ms. Genuine

9 of 13

Ms. Leiter always made people feel seen. Especially for middle school, where so much can feel awkward and weird, Deb made everyone feel comfortable. She used humor and kindness to help lighten any situation, and she made teaching and learning easy and fun. Her laughter was infectious, and her loyalty was unmatched. She was a person on whom you could rely for solid advice and a good laugh; you always left Deb feeling better than you did before. She was a true friend. Deb’s absence has left a chasm that will be impossible to fill.

-Ms Parton

Ms. Leiter made CMS a fun place to be. Watching her welcome kids into her room with a smile, positive energy, and that amazing sense of humor is something I will never forget and miss every day. I'm honored to have called her my friend.

- Mr. J

Lunch for teachers was in the OYO room. Mrs. Leiter was the host. Students may not realize this, but there are times that teaching middle schoolers can be stressful. One minute your are working with adoring golden labs, the next, rabid mad dogs. Mrs. Leiter had an amazing sense of humor. As we shared about our experiences we were able to debrief, regather, and go back to do our our jobs. I’ve been thinking about Mrs. Leiter up in heaven with the saints having a lunch break with St. Peter and the others. I can see them complaining about all the problems on earth. Mrs. Leiter will listen, have them in hysterics, and challenge them to get on with it. I am grateful Mrs. Leiter is no longer suffering in her body. I hope I can continue to bring a listening ear, her courage, and a challenge to get on with it.

- Mr. O’Hara

Plainly put, Ms. Leiter was the Mom of CMS. She was the person everyone, including me, felt comfortable going to for a listening ear, a laugh, or sound advice. As a leader, I am often unsure of how my staff will receive my messaging. Deb would always give sound advice and was always clear regarding staff opinions about issues.

Deb was a rare teacher who could make her class very fun, lively, and engaging, yet she was intolerant of disrespect or misbehavior. She held students to high standards.

After attending her service, I recognized how much she was loved, not only as a colleague, but also as a mother, friend, daughter, sister-in-law, and neighbor. She was truly one of a kind, and her spirit will always be with us. Deb will always be a part of the CMS fabric, the most colorful and beautifully textured threads running through it.

Mrs. O’Shea

Ms. Leiter loved her dogs! One day Deb and I were walking on the boardwalk at the beach at C street. Deb had her two dogs with her. Deb was not using her dog, Maggie’s, usual leash so she was not used to how the tension felt. As we walked from the concrete to the sand, Maggie tripped fell (Maggie has very short legs). For a moment, Deb was then dragging Maggie on the sand before we both noticed and quickly got Maggie up and made sure she was okay. I spoke to Deb later and she said she had spent the whole afternoon making it up to Maggie giving her special treats, extra pets and hugs and kisses! Deb loved her dogs!!!

Mrs. Ellis

Ms. eiter was a joy to be around! She was funny, kind, mischievous, loyal, and a bright light that sparked laughter and love.

During my first few years here there used to be a science fair. It was an intense time for students and science teachers. That was before each student had a laptop so classes were scheduled to use a computer lab that was next door to the library. For about a month Ms. Leiter would bring all her classes to the lab (same thing for her On Your Own classes when they were getting ready for the luncheon they hosted each semester). I HAD to have a stash of mini peanut butter cups in one of my file drawers for her to dig into. If I didn't then I disappointed her. That only happened once. Those students who had MS. Leiter were very lucky as was I and all who knew her. She is and will be always be missed!

- Mrs. G.

10 of 13

Knowing Ms. Leiter as a close friend and colleague for more than 20 years was a precious gift! Like finding that special shell, sea glass or smooth rock. She brought great joy to my life that Will terribly be missed! Friends like her are rare and if you’re blessed to have one don’t take your relationship for granted, we’re not promised tomorrow. When we first met I knew she was a special individual and we would be Golden Friends! We’ve had so many adventures and now when I think of her, it will always make me smile.

- Mrs. Kaklamanos

When I first arrived to CMS, I had no recent experience teaching 8th grade science, and Ms. Leiter taught me how to make learning science fun for students while sharing my own love of learning. We worked together to try and make her lessons work over a computer during pandemic years, and when we returned to school, she made it count. She loved to share her excitement about science and used her whimsical personality and wild sense of humor to make it live and breathe. She was fearless and was never afraid to lead learning experiences outside the four walls of the classroom. We built rockets, dropped eggs from ladders, and took walks to the beach to show how large the solar system is. I would not be the teacher I am today without her brilliant example. She will be missed, but will live on in everything I do.

- Mr.Mastrovito

What a great gift Deb is and was in my life. She was the funniest and silliest. She became my friend instantly, as she did with all of us. She was light hearted, kind hearted, loyal, and so strong. Everything about her was adventurous and brave. She fought and fought and never stopped. Her quality of life prior to illness and even within her illness was to embrace every opportunity to its fullest. And she did. I find her spirit inspirational, admirable and a model that Iwant to embrace in my own life. The mischievous sparkle in her eye will remain imprinted forever. What a wonderful friend she was to all of us. She was our best friend, our cheerleader, our mom, our fire, and our beloved teacher. Nothing and no one can fill her shoes. She will be so dearly missed

- Ms. Camardella

Ms. Leiter was my precious unicorn. She was not only a colleague, but a best friend, and a sister, to me for 18 years. She was an inspiring teacher and mother. Outside of teaching, she devoted her whole life to her kids and her dogs. She had a mischievous and quirky side to her and you didn’t know what was coming. On the flipside, she was the most loyal, kind hearted person to anyone she came across. She loved to cook, travel, and get lost in a Steven King novel. When it came to adventures, she was up for anything! She was the life of a party and she never met a stranger she didn’t befriend. She is probably the strongest person I’ve ever known. When life threw her curve balls, she never backed away. She taught me so many valuable lessons in life. I will forever miss our text messages during the Bachelor, walking with our dogs, our trips to Palm Springs and Pine Mountain, and so much more. The memories we created are memories to last a lifetime. She is one person that is not irreplaceable! Ms. Leiter has left her footprints not only at CMS, but in our hearts as well!

- Ms. Taylor

1 of 13