The Home Herald is published on-line monthly

during the school year (September-May) by the

Cherry Creek High School

Parent Teacher Community Organization,

9300 E. Union Ave., Englewood, Colorado 80111.

Print copies are available in the West Main Office.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHT Thursday, September 1, 20116:00 - 9:00 p.m. Cherry Creek High School invites parents of all our students to attend Back-to-School Night. Parents will follow their student’s schedule to meet their teachers and gain insight about their classes. Parents can also meet the deans, counselors and the school administrators.The buildings open at 6:00 p.m. Parents should report to their student’s period 1 class at 6:30 p.m. and follow the schedule throughout the evening. During your student’s free period(s) you are invited to explore the campus, stop by the Kathleen D. Smith Library to meet the administrators, and visit thecounseling office. PowerSchool help will also be available. Groups on campus will be raising money by selling food in the IC Cafeteria and by the baseball field. Creek clothing and other items can be purchased from various groups in the hallways.

Have your student fill in their schedule below for you to bring Thursday evening.

PERIOD TIME SUBJECT/TEACHER BUILDING/ROOM 1 6:30-6:40 ______________________________ __________________ 2 6:50-7:00 ______________________________ __________________ 3 7:10-7:20 ______________________________ __________________ 4 7:30-7:40 ______________________________ __________________ 5 7:50-8:00 ______________________________ __________________ 6 8:10-8:20 ______________________________ __________________ 7 8:30-8:40 ______________________________ __________________ 8 8:50-9:00 ______________________________ __________________

From the PrinciPal....................... 3

Ptco ............................................. 4

Post Grad ................................. 5-7

test PreP classes.......................... 8 counselinG connection............... 9

activities/athletics................... .10

Pin........................................ 13-14

Fitness Festival.....................15-16 cccln.................................... ....17 calendar......................................19

Editor: Stephanie Kallet HHnewsletter@kallet.com

SEPTEMBER 2011

STUDENT DIRECTORY SALES AT BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHTBear Tracks, the official and indispensable CCHS directory, is available beginning Thursday, September 1st at Back-To-School Night. The price remains $10, and is the PTCO’s primary fundraiser.The directory is an important resource that includes contact information for all participating students, extensions of administrative staff, department heads and other faculty, deans, guidance and counseling, attendance, nurses, campus security, and clubs. It also includes important dates through-out the school year, community resource phone numbers, and PTCO’s volunteer roster.During Back-to-School Night, please have your check prepared before getting into line, due to brisk sales that evening, Make checks payable to “CCHS PTCO.” Cash is fine, too. The directory is also available at Bear Necessities, the school store, and at PTCO meetings. Pick up more than one for your cars and office!!

Back to School Night DinnerLeave the grilling to

Brought to the Creek Community by theCCHS Band Parents Association

Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011, 5 – 9 p.m.Outside Creek Café north side of Baseball Field and Tennis Courts

Outback Steakhouse Choice of Grilled Chicken or BurgerGreen Salad ~ Pasta Salad ~ Dessert ~ Bottled Water

$9.00 ($7.00 for CCHS faculty, staff, and students with ID)$5.00 Vegetarian Option (everything without chicken or burger)

Thanks to Outback SteakhouseAll proceeds support the CCHS MarCHing Band

Recycling bins will be available for empty water bottles.

Welcome to the 2011-2012 school year at Cherry Creek High School. I am thrilled that the start of the school year is here. It is lonely on this 82 acre campus when students, teachers, and parents are not present. The start of school is always welcome on my part because the people return. Cherry Creek High School has always been special because of our people and the relationships that are built every year. Our faculty and staff are rejuvenated and excited to work with your children. Our 57th school year will be a wonderful school year filled with the same standard of excellence we have seen in the previous 56 years of school at Cherry Creek.

As we head into the new year, I do want to take a moment to highlight a few accomplishments that are worth celebrating. The class of 2011 was impressive and these students were recognized in many ways for their accomplishments. The class included 29 National Merit Scholars, 35 Commended students, 2 Black National Achievement Scholars, 5 National Hispanic Recognition Scholars, three Boettcher Scholars, a National Siemen’s Award winner, 554 Advanced Placement Scholars and for only the 5th time in our 56 year history, Cherry Creek High School was the home to a United States Presidential Scholar. In addition, our students were recognized for their performance in the performing arts, visual arts, debate, and DECA. Last year four of our athletic teams brought home championship trophies and another five finished as runner-up.

The Class of 2012, and the remainder of the student-body, do not want to be outdone and have started the year in impressive fashion. We recently received word that our ACT composite score increased by .5 to a 24.9. This composite score is the highest we have had since juniors started taking the ACT during the school day ten years ago. Our students also performed well on the Advanced Placement assessments with slightly over 91% scoring a passing score of 3 or higher. As a result, Cherry Creek High School was recognized in the Washington Post as one of the top 1.5% of public high schools in the country. Bravo to our current students on this wonderful start and I am certain there will be more exciting achievements to come through the school year.

Our goals for 2011-2012 are the same goals that we have had in place for years

1. Educate all of our students and prepare them for college2. Prepare our students to leave Creek as productive, quality citizens3. Provide our students and parents with outstanding customer service and care for every Bruin

While I am proud of the continued improvement we have seen over the years in our assessment data, I receive my greatest satisfaction in hearing from individuals who want to share with me stories of individual success and growth while at Cherry Creek High School. There is far more power in hearing from a student or a parent that a teacher, security guard, secretary or custodian positively impacted one of our Bruins by calling home to congratulate a student on a job well done or by simply telling a student that they believe in them. As strange as it may seem, we take great pride at Cherry Creek High School in acting like a small town school by connecting to our community and behaving as a family. As a result, know that we care about each of our students as individuals first and foremost. We will always celebrate ACT scores, AP success, and other recognition, but we know we will arrive at those moments by first valuing each of our students as unique individuals who have a gift to offer.

Being the principal of Cherry Creek High School is more than a job. It is my community, my home away from home, and the school where my own children will one day attend. I awake everyday excited to be a Bruin and serve as the leader of a school with an outstanding faculty, staff, student body, and parent community. Together, all of us in the Bruin Family will continue to maintain the high standard of excellence in all we do for our current, future, and former Bruins.Welcome to the 2011-2012 school year!

Sincerely,

Ryan T. SilvaPrincipal

FROM THE WEST OFFICE

BROWN BAG WITH THE PRINCIPALJoin Principal Ryan Silva for the first Brown Bag Lunch of the school year, sponsored by PIN, Wednesday, September 21st, 11:30 am-1:00 pm in the West Main Office. It’s informal, informational, and a great way to find out what’s happening at Creek!

SAVE THESE DATES

PTCO (Parent/Teacher/Community Organization) Welcome to Cherry Creek High School! Whether you are new to Creek or returning with a younger child, we are excited to have each of you as a member of the Parent Teacher Community Organization (PTCO). The primary purpose of our PTCO is to provide avenues of communication between parents/guardians, faculty, administrators and of course, the students. Through that communication we hope to assist in attaining the highest level of education and welfare to all students. If you have any questions, comments or would like to volunteer, please contact any of us on the PTCO Executive Board at any time.

We would like to invite you to attend our first PTCO meeting on September 8th in the Fine Arts Foyer, starting with a social time at 9:00 am. This will be a very informative meeting where you will be introduced to all the Assistant Principals, Deans, and head administrators. In addition, we will be voting on the PTCO by laws and revised budget for the coming year. Please take a moment to log onto the CCHS web site and click on the parent tab, and then the PTCO tab to preview the proposed by laws. Here is a direct link: http://www.cchs.ccsd.k12.co.us/about_creek/ptco/cchs%202011%20bylaws.pdfWe look forward to a great year ahead!

Deb Hester, Co-President Penny Malloy, Co-President djhstr@hotmail.com malloyp@aol.com Sue Bouck Co-President-elect sue.bouck@gmail.comDebbie Keesling Co-President-elect debbie@5keeslings.comSharon Link Secretary linkfam@aol.comSherri Casas Treasurer sherricasas@msn.comNikki Gordon Past Co-President nikki@comcast.net

SAVE THESE DATES PTCO Meetings: Held in the Fine Arts Foyer, unless noted below.

There is a 15 minute social time before the meeting.

September 8th at 9:15 a.m.Meet the Asst. Principals/Deans

October 13th at 6:00 p.m. in the LIBRARYPost Grad Night

November 10th at 9:15 a.m.Featuring the Athletic Department

December 14th from 10:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m.Coming Back to Creek: Shillinglaw (West Bldg.)

January 12th at 6:00 p.m. in the LIBRARYGuest Speaker; TBA

February 9th at 9:15 a.m.Volunteer Appreciation Coffee

March 8th at 9:15 a.m.

April 12th at 9:15 a.m.

May 10th at 9:15 a.m.

Thank You Volunteers!A sincere thank you to the many volunteers who offer countless hours and extraordinary talents….Lisa Chaiken and Lesley Silverman and their incredible After-Prom team for making that May night an unforgettable experience; Lisa Chaiken and Jes-sie Shogan for a terrific job of recruiting a slate full of dedicated and energetic volunteers to chair our PTCO committees this coming year and for their wonderful advice as Past Presidents: Sue Bouck and Debbie Keesling for organizing a team of 30+ volunteers for each day of Check-In during August and for stay-ing so positive throughout the week; Mary Brook for her unde-niable talent in managing our PTO Manager database; Carrie Asher and Denise Letzler for their tireless efforts to input data for the Bear Tracks Directory to get it out in time for Back to School Night; Lesley Silverman for soliciting ads to help make our directory a viable endeavor and Bonnie Arnold for organiz-ing the Bear Track Sales; Helen Nelson, Bonnie Arnold and Jeanie Becker Davis for organizing and executing a welcoming and educational hospitality room for the freshman parents dur-ing check-in; Lisa Biederman, Caryn Herman, Robin Snyder, Lisa Shafer, and Shelley Lucas for the fabulous staff appreci-ation luncheon they organized the Friday before school started, and to the over 90 volunteers who donated food or helped out that day. A special thank you to Nella’s Frozen Yogurt for donat-ing yogurt & toppings for dessert.Our list could go on, and it will!

CONNECTStay connected with “everything Creek.”

• Become familiar with the CCHS website www.cchs.ccsd.k12.co.us You will find a wealth of information. • The Home Herald (you are reading it now!) provides current and ongoing information each month. Receive it by email (sign up in PTO Manager) or find it on the school website.• PTO Manager – Update and customize your volunteer and email preferences so that you receive information you want and need, as it becomes available.• Attend our monthly PTCO meetings. Meetings will feature updates from our principal, students regarding school activities, and speakers from various departments and the district. Please join us on September 8th at 9:15 am in the Fine Arts Foyer for our first meeting of the year.

September 2011

Craig Wittgrove, Post Grad Counselor

Senior appointments, college visits, college workshops, transcript requests…the sign that fall is here, the new school year has begun and the post graduate center is in full swing. My name is Craig Wittgrove, and I have been a counselor at Creek for 4 years and I am eager to start my new position as the post graduate counselor. We have been working hard in the post grad center to improve the services and resources we provide students and families at Creek. We are excited about the new things for this upcoming year and we will strive to support each student to reach their post graduate plan. You should have received our one-page “College Planning Schedule” in your check-in packet - post it on your refrigerator for a handy reminder of important dates and programs. NEW FOR 2011 - 2012! The Post Graduate Center has made a few policy changes that will affect students, particularly seniors. All senior appointments with your counselor will be made through our post grad specialists (Peggy, Kathy, & Cyd) not through the counseling office. We will have 5th period college workshops in the Post Grad Center starting in mid-September through De-cember. Check the website for the schedule! Scholarship requests and deadlines will only be on Mondays and Wednesdays this year. Please plan ac-cordingly and be aware of scholarship deadlines! Our website has been updated and we will continue to utilize the website as a resource to provide the most current events and post grad information.

SENIORS – READ CAREFULLY! Fall semester goes by quickly, so we want to remind you of the following details: Creek 401 (Senior Post Grad) Assembly on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 Fine Arts Theater during the College Readiness Day All seniors are required to attend immediately after their senior picture. This assembly will cover all infor- mation relevant to their senior year: credits required for graduation, the college application process, how to use Naviance, test prep, and much more! Senior College Night for Parents on Thursday, September 22, 2011 6:30 p.m. in the CCHS Shillinglaw

Lecture Center Parents can learn the details about the college application process and deadlines that are shared with their stu- dent(s) during the Creek 401 Assembly. We will be e-mailing post grad information every “College Wednesday” via Family Connection by Navi-

ance. Please make sure your e-mail address is correct! If you haven’t registered or if you have forgotten your password please stop by Post Grad. Naviance is our college lifeline to the college search, college visits, teach-er recommendations, your application status, our scholarship database, and additional college resources and links.

No matter what you are planning for life after Creek, schedule your Senior Interview with your counselor to update us on your college and post grad plans. If you will need a counselor letter of recommendation, we recom-mend that you schedule your Senior Interview well in advance of your application deadlines to allow your coun-selor ample time to write your letter. You will be given instructions on completing your Senior Questionnaire on Naviance when you make your appointment - complete the form before you meet with your counselor.

NOTE: Seniors who are considering applying under an early decision or early action deadline for a specif-ic college should schedule their senior interview in Post Grad as soon as possible. Don’t delay! Counselors’ schedules fill up quickly.

You are able to see if your teacher recommendation letters have been submitted to Post Grad on Naviance. Click on the “Colleges” tab and then on the “colleges I am applying to” link under “my colleges”; if your teacher letters have been submitted to Post Grad, you will see your teachers’ name listed there. If no names are listed, you may want to gently remind your teacher(s) to complete your letter. Remember to give the teachers plenty of advance notice and thank them for their help.

BE AWARE OF DEADLINES! The Post Grad Center requires students to submit “transcript request forms” at least fifteen working days in advance of college and scholarship application deadlines. School breaks and holi-days are not considered working days. If you are completing your college or scholarship applications online, you must request that we send your transcript, and/or teacher and counselor recommendations according to the dead-lines. Please check the website or stop by post grad to learn about the deadlines!

Not sure what to write about or how to finish you college essay? Master teachers from the English department will be available to help seniors in all aspects of the college essay in the post grad center during 5th and 8th peri-ods Monday through Thursday.

If you plan to take or retake the ACT, SAT, or SAT Subject Tests this fall, remember to register by the dead-line of September 9 for the October 1 SAT or SAT Subject Tests, and September 16 for the October 22 ACT. The easiest way to register is at www.collegeboard.org for the SAT and Subject Tests and www.actstudent.org for the ACT. Note: the CEEB code for Cherry Creek is: 060-515

Meet with the college representatives that visit Creek this fall! It allows them to put a face with your applica-tion, and gives you an opportunity to ask specific questions about their institution. See the list of visiting colleg-es and sign up on Naviance at http://connection.naviance.com/cherrycreek.

We continue to team with Naviance and EduDocs to submit transcripts and supporting application docu-mentation to colleges electronically.

We highly encourage all juniors to start thinking about their post graduate plans and to participate in the following: Juniors will be taking the Practice ACT test Tuesday, September 20, 2011. Attend the Greater Denver College Fair & Workshops on October 15 (Douglas County High School) and/or

other area college fairs to meet with college representatives and gather information. Take the PSAT on Saturday, October 15, 2011. Utilize the Post Graduate Center and Naviance to begin researching colleges.

SOPHOMORES & FRESHMEN

It is never too early to start thinking about life after high school. Freshmen, sophomores, and their parents are en-couraged to attend college fairs and workshops. Freshmen and sophomores will be taking the PLAN test on Tuesday, September 20, 2011. Sophomores in English 10H are encouraged to take the PSAT on October 15 with juniors, but are not eligible

for National Merit consideration until their junior year.

Juniors

EXPLORE Test/PLAN Test/Practice ACT Test (College Readiness Day) Tuesday, September 20, 2011 Cherry Creek High School 8:00 AM All freshmen, sophomores, and juniors will be taking these tests which prepares them for the ACT, and provides excellent information for teachers and counse- lors in guiding students, as well as an interest inventory for students. Seniors see above.

In-State College Night: Monday, October 10, 2011 Eaglecrest High School 6:00 – 7:30 PM Out-of-State College Nights: Wednesday, October 12, 2011 Monarch High School 6:30 – 8:30 PM Thursday, October 13, 2011 John F. Kennedy High School 6:30 – 8:30 PM Greater Denver College Fair: Saturday, October 15, 2011 Douglas County High School 10:00 AM. - 2:00 PM This large, annual event takes place at Douglas County H.S. and is not to be missed! Over 250 colleges will be represented, and families can choose from 16 workshops on the college process. PSAT: Saturday, October 15, 2011 Cherry Creek High School 8:00 – 11:00 AM The PSAT is recommended for juniors and advanced sophomores. Financial Aid and Scholarship Workshop: Wednesday, November 30, 2011 Shillinglaw Lecture Center 6:30 PM CREEK TO COLLEGE: A College Planning Workshop for Sophomores, Juniors, & Parents: Saturday, February 11, 2012 Cherry Creek High School 9:00 AM Watch for more information on this Saturday workshop featuring break-out sessions on a variety of topics related to the college planning process.

As you can see we have many resources and events going on through post grad. I encourage you to stop by the post grad office whether it is your first year at Creek or your final one! Craig Wittgrove – Post Grad Counselor

Tuesday, September 20, 2011 9th Graders will take the EXPLORE exam in the East Building10th Graders will take the PLAN exam in the West Building11th Graders will take the Practice ACT exam in the North Gym (West Bldg) and IC Building

Wednesday, September 28, 2011 ~ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm (Fine Arts Theater) Parents of 11th grade students are invited to attend this open session to pick up the results of thePractice ACT and hear other important information from our Kaplan Representative. Saturday, October 15, 2011 ~ 8:00 am-11:00 am ~ Cherry Creek High SchoolPSAT - recommended for Juniors & advanced Sophomores

Registration begins September 26th (periods 4, 5, & 6) across from Activities. Late registration fees will apply October 10th-October 14th.

COLLEGE READINESS

test PreP For sat, actsssss

Cherry Creek High School Test Prep ClassesReading Comprehension: This class reviews the types of reading passages frequently found on both the SAT and ACT and offers strategies for approaching those passages and accompanying questions.

Verbal I: This class familiarizes students with strategies for the sentence completion and required writing portion of the SAT. This class also reviews punctuation and language usage skills tested on the ACT English test. Finally, this class addresses the optional writing por-tion of the ACT.

Math Review: This course reviews elementary and advanced algebra, plane and coordinate geometry, elementary trigonometry, statis-tics, probability, and data analysis. Students practice test questions and focus on developing skills for solving a variety of math problems on the SAT and ACT.

Science Review: This course covers the interpretation of data, including higher-level inferencing skills, graphs, and other science con-tent needs for the Science Reasoning sections of the PLAN and ACT.

FALL 2011 Test Prep Class Dates:

Reading Comprehension Tues. 10/4 5:30-7:30Verbal I Wed. 10/5 5:30-7:30Math Review Tues. 10/11 5:30-7:30Science Review Thur. 10/13 5:30-7:30

The math review will be held in the math/science resource center; the English session and science review will be held in Shillinglaw.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Registration Form:

Name: ___________________________________________________________________________________

Address: ________________________________________________________________________________

City: ______________________________________ Zip: ___________________

Phone: ( ) _____________________________ Grade Level: ___________

I will attend the following test prep classes:

___ Reading Comprehension $20

___ Verbal I $20

___ Math Review $20

___ Science Review $20

Total Enclosed: ___________

Send this form and check payable to CCHS no later than Friday, 9/30 to:

Peggy MartinAttention: Test PrepPost-Grad DepartmentCherry Creek High School9300 East Union AvenueEnglewood, CO 80111

Due to the high demand for these courses, refunds will not be available.

SAT/ACT

CREEK COUNSELING CONNECTION

“Everything is connected…no one thing can change by itself.” Paul Hawken

A Little About Creek 101Creek 101 is designed to assist freshman with the transition to high school and to help ensure a successful year academically, socially and emotionally. Creek 101 meets once a week through the middle of February, and will be taught by teachers who have been trained to work specifically with freshman and a transition curriculum. Counselors will still be an integral part of this curriculum, especially when working with academics. Counselors will meet in Creek 101 classes approximately four times and are available to meet with freshman individually when needed. The topics covered specifically by the Counseling Department are as follows:

• Graduation and college course and credit requirements• Introduction to Family Connection by Naviance• Four year plan and transcripts• Registration for sophomore year courses

The Counseling Department’s goal for ALL freshmen is to learn, grow and become an active, productive, Creek citizen. It is also our goal that each student learns where to go for support when he/she is faced with a decision; whether it is academic, social or emotional.

We look forward to working with and getting to know our new ninth graders. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to call or email your son or daughter’s counselor:

Counselor Alpha Counselor Alpha

Lisa Wiese A-Cab Craig Wittgrove Lop-MorkDeana Tucker Cac-Do Chris Win Morl-PorSusan Swisher Dp-Gut Julie Ahlgrim Pos-ShorJoi Green Guu-Kau Kelly Dunham Shos-TaShelly Johnson Kav-Loo Carolyn Warkoski Tb-Z

Welcome to CREEK. . .welcome toBEAR NECESSITIES!

CHERRY CREEK HIGH SCHOOL’S STOREYour school store has supplies galore. . .

everything you need to be prepared!

We’re located at IC 713 (Next to the IC Cafeteria) Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Phone: 720.554.2029

CREEK CAFÉ DEBIT CARD PROGRAM

The Creek Café is located in the West Building of CCHS. The Cafe offers students the opportunity to use their student ID cards as pre-paid debit cards. Students can bring cash or a check to the Café to load money on their school ID. Any amount, not less than $25.00, can be loaded. Checks should be made payable to ‘CCHS’ AND in the ‘memo’ section write student’s name and school ID number, which is located on their picture ID card. NOTE: MONEY LOADED ON THE PRE-PAID ON-LINE SERVICE (PAY PAM) IS NOT REDEEMABLE IN THE CREEK CAFÉ.

When making a purchase, students present their school ID to a cashier, the amount of purchase is debited from the amount loaded on their card. Students MUST present school ID for Creek Cafe purchases. They will receive a printed cash register receipt indicating how much money remains on the card. Students do not get a separate ID or PIN # for purchases. Any amount remaining at the end of the year will remain for subsequent years’ use.

From the Activities Director

It’s hard to believe it, but we are back at school. With the most recent success of Spirit Day, I am eager to see the school spirit that our Creekers will continue to proudly display.

Last year, when I became the Activities Director, I knew that I had much to learn about the programs and events that happen here at Cherry Creek High School. What I didn’t know is that I would learn so much about why the extracurricular programs and activities are so strong. Along the way, I learned that the excellent programs have tremendous student leadership, highly committed students, and that the people are what make the program amazing. So, it is with this newly acquired knowledge in mind, that I encourage all of our students to participate in extracurricular activities. Creek’s clubs and co-curricular activities allow students to explore their passions, find new hobbies, and most importantly, to interact with adults and students in a positive way. There are so many ways in which students can learn about our clubs: club booklets and bookmarks, the Activities page on the website, the club fair, teachers, and the Activities Center. Most clubs are open to new members throughout the school year. The Cherry Creek High School Club Fair on Wednesday, September 7, 2011, during periods 4, 5, and 6 by the Old School House provides students with a great chance to get involved and learn about clubs. The calendar just outside of the Activities Center (IC 720) provides a list of club meetings, times, and locations.

Important September events are as follows:

* Back to School Night: September 1, 2011, 6:30-9:00 p.m.* Cherry Creek School District’s Fitness Festival:

September 10, 2011* Jazz Band Concert: September 20, 2011, 7:00 p.m.

Fine Arts Theatre* Band Concert: September 27, 2011, 7:00 p.m.,

Fine Arts Theatre

Save the date:

* Fall Spirit Week: October 10-15* Homecoming Parade and BBQ: October 15, 12:00-2:00 p.m.* Homecoming Dance: October 15, 2011, 7:00-11:00 pm.,

Cherry Creek High School, with unlimited games/activities

I hope that the beginning of the school year renews and invigorates your school spirit, and that you take time to attend and participate in some of the early events in the school year.

If you have any questions, ideas, or suggestions, please contact me at 720-554-2393, mmcdavid@cherrycreekschools.org, or come by the Activities Center.

Enjoy!

Marcus McDavid

ACTIVITIESWelcome to another year of Bruin Athletics!!

Tradition, pride, dedication, and honor are the words which best de-scribe Cherry Creek High School athletics and its rich history of excel-lence. Over the past many years Creek athletics has celebrated great moments, victories, and championships. Players and coaches have worked incredibly hard during the off season in preparation for this year. They have sacrificed their time each day with the goal of making this season one to remember.

Creek athletics is built on many pillars of success. We expect every student to challenge themselves in the classroom and in athletic com-petitions. Perseverance, passion, and the desire to achieve greatness are what Cherry Creek hopes to instill in these young student/athletes. These values, combined with an enriching and rewarding educational experience, help to contrib-ute to the overall success students have in life. Through interscholastic competition coaches focus on the process of success which fosters increased performance under pressure, improved self-confidence, and the ability to balance ones’ life. While winning is the desired outcome, consistent high achievement is the goal.

As a community who embraces high school athletics, it is important for all of us to remember why we are here. Each of the student/athletes represent him or herself, their family, and their school. They, along with coaches and officials, participate for the love of the sport and the opportunities provided through competition. We ask and expect stu-dents and coaches to act with integrity, character, and class regardless of the setting or outcome. Maintaining this expectation for spectators results in good sportsmanship and support for our athletic programs. I appreciate your support for Cherry Creek athletics and the encour-agement you provide to participants and coaches.

Welcome to another great year of Creek athletics!

Darren KnoxDirector of Athletics

ATHLETICS

Mark your calendars forFuture Bruins Day!

Parents of Middle Schoolers:

The second annual Future Bruins Day will be held on Friday, November 11th for current 5th through 8th graders and their parents. These

students will be invited to come to Creek to participate in a panel discussion with students,

teachers, and administrators, to take a guided tour of the campus, and to visit a variety of booths high-lighting academics, athletics, and clubs. There will

also be the opportunity for 8th graders to attend select classes. Watch for more information and

registration instructions soon.

Creek ChoirThe CCHS choirs would like to extend an invitation to the community to join us at any of our concerts this year. We are proud of our long tradition of excellent choral music performances, and this year promises to be another inspiring season. Debuting this year is our new auditioned Men’s Choir, Troubadours.

On Saturday, September 10th, the Meistersingers will be singing for over 2,500 community members at the First American State Bank Fitness Festival, the 5K Run/Walk that raises money for the Community Asset Project, a partner with the CCSD Wellness Office. This will be an historic year for the Meistersingers, as they have been selected to perform at the Regional American Choral Directors Association Conference in Dallas in March.

The first school-wide Choral concerts of the year will be on Tuesday, October 4th in the Fine Arts Theatre. Statesmen, Union Street Jazz, A Cappella, and Girls’ 21 will open the evening starting at 6:30 pm. Then, at 8pm, Meistersingers, Choralaires, and Troubadours will follow. These concerts are free to the public, and seating is first-come, first-served.

The Union Street Jazz Choir will hold its annual Jazz on the Green concert at 4:30 on October 13th, as part of the Spirit Week activities.

The 2011-2012 Theatre Season is here!CHERRY CREEK H.S. Theatre has been selected to perform in Edinburgh, Scotland! Troupe #1730 will be flying to London in August of 2012 (the same time as the Olympics). We will visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, and then take a train to Edinburgh, Scotland where we will perform as a member of Ameri-can High School Theatre Festival in the largest Fine Arts Festival in the world. We will be performing a special show selected around the talents of those who are signed up to go. We currently have 12 students and 3 faculty signed up to attend, and the opportunity still exists up through September 7th. There will be a very important meeting for all Drama Parents on Tuesday, September 6th, at 6pm. At this meeting we will talk about everything from advocacy to auditions, the season of shows, Scotland,

Fundraising, and the Colorado Thespian Festival... don’t miss this meeting if you have a student who is involved in Creek Theatre. Also at this meeting we will announce the title of the 2012 all-school musical. We have an exciting year planned for all students (and their parents!) who love the theatre. Last year we entertained audiences and made them laugh, cry, and think, with the shows Cyrano de Bergerac, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, The Bride of Brackenloch!, and Almost, Maine. This year a diverse season awaits... some of which includes:

First up on the mainstage, there will be a special mainstage production of Alice in Wonderland, which will be performed by members of Advanced Acting class and directed by Directing class seniors Brandon Karsh and Brian Reiff. Show dates are the 10th, 11th and 12th of November.

The Fall Play this year is Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing, runs the week after, from November 16th - 19th. All shows will be at 7 pm in the Fine Arts Theatre. This show will be directed by English teacher Jim Abrahamsson! Come see his very original interpretation of this classic.

Auditions for Much Ado About Nothing, as well as ensemble roles in Alice in Wonderland, will take place on Wednesday, September 7th after school (with Callbacks on September 8th).

Thespian Meetings will take place on the first Tuesday of every month! The next Thespian meeting will be on Tuesday, September 6th at 3:05pm. If you are a student who loves theatre and wants the opportunity to meet others just like you - please be there.

Community ConnectionsC H E R R Y C R E E K H I G H S C H O O L

SAVE

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E You’re InvitedWe welcome you as our guest to

Cherry Creek High School for any of the following events:FI

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TRE Sept. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Faculty Art Show, 3-5 pm

Sept. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jazz Band ConcertSept. 27 & Dec. 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . Concert Band, Wind Ensemble,

and Symphonic Band ConcertsOct. 4 & Dec. 14-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vocal Music ConcertsOct. 6 & Dec. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Orchestra ConcertsNov. 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Masterworks concert,

featuring Band, Orchestra, and Select ChoirsNov. 10 – Nov. 12 . . . .Student Directed Play: Alice in Wonderland Nov. 16 – Nov. 19 . . . . . . . . . . Fall Play: Much Ado About NothingDec. 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jazz Band and Choir concertFor more information, call 720.554.2307 . Doors open for seating at 6:30 pm unless otherwise indicated .

FALL

SPOR

TS GIRLS BOYS Cross-Country Cross-Country Field Hockey Golf Gymnastics Soccer Softball Tennis Volleyball Football (Co-Ed) Pom Pons & Cheerleading

Refer to the CCHS web site for athletic schedules, at www.cchs.ccsd.k12.co.us; go to the “Activities and Athletics” tab .

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S HOMECOMING 2011Thurs., Oct. 13th, 4:30 pm . . . . . . . Jazz on the Green ConcertSat., Oct. 15th, 2:00 pm . . . . Homecoming Game, Stutler Bowl

FUTURE BRUINS DAY 2011Friday, Nov . 11th, 8 am, for 5th - 8th graders and their parentsTo be added to the mailing list for future events, or for directions, please call the Activities Center at 720.554.2390.

Tuesday, September 6, 2011 ~ 9:00 am-11:15 am

“Loving Your Kids Enough To Let Them Make Mistakes” Some parents make the mistake of believing that children learn responsibility by being lectured about it. Love and Logic teaches that children become prepared for the real world only when their parents allow them to make plenty of affordable mistakes, when the price tag for these mistakes is small. Learn how to up the odds of raising a responsible, successful child. Presented by Kerry Stutzman, MSW, Certified Love & Logic InstructorKerry earned her Master’s degree in social work (MSW) from DU in 1992 and her post-graduate certificate in marriage and family therapy at Denver Family Institute.

Kerry has also taught classes on marriage enrichment, divorce recovery for adults and kids, as well as, self-esteem and friendship groups for children. Kerry co-founded “Building Bridges for Peace,” a non-profit organization that promotes peacemaking and diversity appreciation. She is the adoring, mother of three boys who are 14, 12 and 7, and lives in metro Denver.

Plan ahead to take a little time out of your day or take a few hours off of work and come to connect with other parents, be informed by local and national speakers, and get empowered to take a proactive approach to parenting. All parents, school administrators and community members are welcome and encouraged to attend Parent Information Network (PIN) presentations.

At the Student Achievement Resource Center (SARC) SARC is located on Briarwood Avenue, south of Arapahoe between Potomac and Jordan Roads.

(Address: 14188 Briarwood Avenue Centennial, 80112).

For further information go to: info@PINccsd.org

Cherry Creek School District Special Education Department and Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) present:

Special Ed 101 (A Free 5-week Class for Parents)

• Learn more about Special Education in Cherry Creek Schools• Have important questions answered by experts• Get an overview of current issues in Special Ed• Hear from other parents of special needs students• Learn how to develop positive partnerships in your child’s school

Dates: September 21, 29, Oct. 5, 12, & 19, 20119:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Location: Eloise May Library, 1471 S. Parker Road, Denver 80231

Registration is on a first come, first served basis. Spaces are limited. Please contact Debbie at 720-554-4490, dvanscoyk@cherrycreekschools.org

CCSD Parent Information Network (PIN)2011-2012 Speakers

Through monthly programs PIN provides captivating and informative speakers discussing parenting and youth issues that are relevant now. All are welcome and encouraged to attend at no charge! Attendees include parents, school administrators, and the community at large.

First Tuesday of each month from 9:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Come at 9:00 a.m. for coffee and networking; Speaker presentation begins at 9:45 am

SARC – Student Achievement Resource Center 14188 East Briarwood Ave., Centennial - off Jordan Rd., south of Arapahoe Rd.

September 6th Loving Your Kids Enough To Let Them Make MistakesKerry Stutzman, MSW, Certified Love & Logic Instructor talks about how to prepare children for the real world by letting them make affordable mistakes when the price tag is small. Come and learn how to up the odds of raising a responsible and successful child.

October 4th Using the Collaborative Problem Solving Approach: Think Differently About Your Children Presented by Dr. Lisa Wolff, CCSD psychologist and instructor for Parent Academy classes, who will share the CPS model. This proactive approach is based on “children do well if they can” and understanding what a child’s behavior is telling us about the skills they may be lacking. Then the child can be taught skills to help them be more successful and meet our expectations. CPS is one approach for solving problems and building relationships with kids of all ages.

November 1st Teaching the Value of Character and Leadership Our speaker Phil Miller, PhD, is a retired Air Force Colonel and Chaplain, and the current Executive Director of the TLC Meals on Wheels program. Phil will talk about the importance of building character and promoting an ethical culture in raising tomorrow’s leaders.

December 6th Give Yourself a Break, You’re Doing Great - Celebrate You!Barbara Stoker, author of “A Woman with A Minute” and “Intelligent Risk Taking for Women” provides an amusing and effective reminder that women are wonderful, and that we need to stop being so hard on ourselves because we do get an amazing number of things accomplished.

January 3rd Students and StressA panel of CCSD students will discuss how today’s students manage stress and develop resiliency.

February 7th Little Girls Can Be MeanMichelle Anthony, expert in developmental psychology and author of “Little Girls Can Be Mean”, provides the tools to enable your child to become stronger, happier and better able to enjoy friendships. Whether your child is just starting grade school, or is already on their way to high school, you’ll learn valuable information to help them navigate through social issues.

March 6th Family Dynamics: When One Child Requires More Time and EnergyLaura Ayers, CCSD mom and parent mentor at PEAK Parent Center, will talk about creating healthy family dynamics and what to do when one child in your family requires more time and energy than the others.

April 3rd Creating a Peaceful Family EnvironmentFinding moments of peace as you face the growing demands placed on families today can feel next to impossible. Join us to hear Kristen Race, PhD and founder of Mindful Life (www.mindfulllife.com) with her insightful views on how today’s frenetic pace is affecting brain development and how to find peace in a chaotic world.

May 1st Michael Gurian, New York Times bestselling author of “The Minds of Boys” and “The Wonder of Girls”, and a nationally recognized speaker, presents: The Minds of Boys and Girls ~ Helping Our Children Do Their Best in School and Life

Annual PIN Brunch held at Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church-Community Life Center

For more information, go to info@PINccsd.org Or Contact: Carla Johnson, PIN Chair, at PINChair@msn.com or Janise McNally, CCSD Wellness Coordinator, at 720-554-4247

Cherry Creek Community Legislative Network

2011-2012 Calendar

District Bus Tour

October 12, 2011 Time TBD

Members of CCCLN and the Long-Range Facility Planning Committee will be touring new

school facilities within the District. Join us as we explore the various opportunities available

throughout Cherry Creek Schools.

Legislative Breakfast November 9, 2011 7:30 a.m. SARC

Join CCCLN members, Cherry Creek School Board members, and our superintendent as we

hear from CCSD legislators about their plans and views on education policy for the

upcoming legislative session.

Overview of 2012 Legislative Session February 8, 2012 9:00 a.m. ESC, Rm 210 Get an up-to-date report on the legislation proposed in the 2012 Legislature and how it

may affect education in the District and throughout Colorado.

Day at the Capitol

March 14, 2012 8:00 a.m. State Capitol Come to see firsthand what takes place at the Capitol. Meet and hear from legislators that

represent our District, and learn about current legislative proposals that may impact

education.

Legislative Update 2012

April 11, 2012 9:00 a.m. ESC, Rm 210

Get an up-to-date report on the legislation proposed in the 2012 Legislature and how it

may affect education in the District and throughout Colorado.

The Cherry Creek Community Legislative Network (CCCLN) is a non-partisan committee promoting

awareness of education issues, legislation, and the legislative process. The Committee sponsors regular

meetings and events to help community members learn about education issues within the District and

provides opportunities to meet State Legislators, the Cherry Creek School Board, the Board of Education,

and education advocacy groups. Everyone in the Cherry Creek School District community is welcome to

attend.

If you have any questions about CCCLN or would like to receive monthly information from the meetings,

please contact Mariellen Guerra at grobert67@comcast.net.

COLORADO TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARDSchool Year 2011-2012 Nomination Form

This award recognizes members of the Cherry Creek High School Faculty for their excellence in the classroom. Nominations can be made by students, parents, administrators and fellow teachers. Nominees must have taught in the District for at least five (5) years. Previous winners may not be nomitated again; See list below*.

To nominate an outstanding teacher, complete the form at the bottom of this page and submit it to:

CCHS, PTCO Mailbox, 9300 E. Union Avenue, Englewood, CO 80111,

Take it directly to the West Main Office, Room 200

Email it to Delrine Cooper (dcooper003@comcast.net) or Sade Ariyo (Dubambs@yahoo.com)

Deadline for nominations is Friday, November 4, 2011.

Questions??? Please contact Delrine Cooper (303-284-1926 or dcooper003@comcast.net) or Sade Ariyo (303-740-2111 or Dubambs@yahoo.com)

I nominate ________________________________for the 2011-2012 Colorado Teacher of the Year Award because

________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

____

S/he:

___Inspires a commitment to excellence ___Shows leadership in a positive manner

___Provides for individual differences in students ___Develops students’ citizenship

___Participates in school & community activities ___Uses methods conducive to learning

___Applies motivational techniques to teaching ___Inspires critical thinking

___Develops personal & social traits within students ___Other (please describe)

I can provide specific examples of the abilities noted above in a follow-up letter, if requested.

Your Name: _______________________________Phone:____________________

Circle one: Student Parent Administrator Fellow Teacher

*Previous winners many not be nominated again: Jamie Alpert, Dave Benson, Heather Creech, Paul Cronin , Brian Daly, TJ Donahue, William Erickson, Tom Fair, Mark Goldsberry, Phil Goodin, Kate Gunneson Steve Kascht, Nancy Major, Kathy McInerney, Mike Nutter, Carol Palmer, Janet Sammons, Jim Saracino, David Stallings, Paul Trollinger, Karen Waples.

CalendarSeptember1 Back To School Night, 6:00-9:00 pm1-2 Balfour showing rings, W. Cafe, periods 4-6 5 Labor Day Holiday--NO SCHOOL6 PIN (Parent Information Network), SARC 9:15-11:15 am7 Club Fair, periods 4-68 PTCO Mtg., FA Foyer, 9:15 am10 ACT testing 11th Annual Fitness Festival, Crescent Park, 7:30 am Meister’s Retreat, FA area, 9:00 am-5:00 pm Girl’s 21 Retreat, FA area, 9:00 am-5:00 pm15 Visual Arts Faculty Show, FA Lobby, 3:00-5:00 pm20 Explore (9th), PLAN (10th), Practice ACT (11th) Tests Senior Panoramic Photo, Stutler, 10 am Senior Mandatory Assembly, FA Theater, 2rd period Jazz Band Concert, FA Theater, 7:00 pm21 Principal’s Brown Bag Lunch, West Main Office, 11:30 am District Choral Festival, FA Theater, 7:00 am-10:00 pm21-22 Bruin Squad Training, 7:00 am-5:00 pm22 Senior Parent Night, FA Theater, 6:30 pm Senior Mandatory Assembly, FA Theatre, 3rd period23 NO SCHOOL--Non-pupil Contact Day27 Student Picture Retakes, W. Cafe, 7:00 am-3:00 pm PLAN and Explore make-up, Com Rms., 7:00am-1:00 pm Band Concert, FA Theater, 7:00 p.m.28 Post Grad College Workshop, Shillinglaw, 5th period Kaplan Info.Session, 11th grade parents pick-up practice ACT test results; hear testing info. 6-7 pm, FA Theater

October1 SAT Meister’s Retreat, FA area, 9:00 am-5:00 pm3 Academic Awards, FA Theater, 7:00 pm4 PIN Mtg. & Speaker, SARC, 9:15-11:15 am Choir Concert, FA Theater, 7:00 pm5 Post Grad College Workshop, Shillinglaw, 5th period6 Orchestra Concert, FA Theater, 7:00 pm9-10 DECA Invitational, Glenwood Springs10-15 SPIRIT WEEK11 Admin. BBQ, 4th-6th periods12 Creek Cup Challenge, Stutler, 6:30-9:30 p.m.13 Jazz on the Green, FA grass, 4:30 pm PTCO Mtg.-Post Grad Night, Library, 6:00 pm Movie on the Baseball Field, 7:30-9:30 pm14 Pep Assembly, S. Gym, Assembly schedule15 PSAT Homecoming Carnival, 12:00 noon Homecoming Game, Stutler Bowl, 2:00 pm Homecoming Dance/ Activities, W. Bldg/Gyms, 7-11 pm19 Post Grad College Workshop, Shillinglaw, 5th period Principal’s Brown Bag Lunch, West Main Office, 11:30 am21 End of 1st Quarter21-22 Marching Band State Championships, CSU Stadium 24-28 FALL BREAK

Do you Tweet?

Principal Silva is now on Twitter where he will Tweet about everything Cherry

Creek

Go to www.twitter.com & search cchsprincipal to follow the celebrations & everything

else Cherry Creek

Drivers’ Education will be offered during the school year. A schedule of classes and registration information will be available online September 20th:www.cherrycreekschools.org/driversed.