From Head of School
Survey Results from the first three months.
Dear Clairbourn Families,
Thanks so much for participating in the first survey. Another round of surveys will trickle out in the next three months with some of the same questions (so we can track them over time) and some new questions (so we can touch on different things over the course of the year). These surveys have been very helpful to us in seeing things from different perspectives. We have been able to respond to some of the comments through the software that keeps anonymous respondents protected. The shout-outs at the bottom have been forwarded (without names since we often don’t have them) to the teachers and staff. It is a great way to make their day!
Here are some of the results from the 75 responses to the surveys. The scores indicate the percentage of respondents who agree with the statement.
 • The school effectively keeps me informed. (97%)• I am treated with courtesy and respect in my interactions with school personnel. (97%)
Clairbourn School has a positive reputation in the community. (90%)
• I plan on re-enrolling next year. (95%)
• Important school decisions are made thoughtfully and carefully, with the best interest of the school's stakeholders in mind. (90%)
• The school campus is a safe place. (94%)
• The teachers at the school genuinely love their students. (94%)
• There is a strong sense of belonging at this school. (92%)
• Overall, I am satisfied with the teachers at the school. (92%)
• The school prepares students well for the next step in their academic journey. (90%)
• There are ample opportunities for parents to be involved at the school. (95%)
When the next survey comes to your inbox, please answer it. We also appreciate your comments. They give us good feedback and discussion topics as we sort through trends and surprises.
Thanks for taking the time to help us grow and learn as a school!
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Quarter Three:
Sports Awards
This season was filled with balanced play and outstanding teamwork!
The boys soccer team should be very proud of their hard work this season. They grew together as a team and showed a willingness to take on any position without hesitation. We are proud of everyone's dedication and hard work. The girls basketball team was a huge success this season. All players demonstrated perseverance and resilience, never giving up while developing their skills, having fun and supporting each other. There was enthusiastic cheering and high-energy from the entire team. The winning record was 6 wins and 1 loss which marked a fantastic ending to a great season!
 The sixth grade girls' basketball team competed in a fun and friendly tournament against Westridge, Mayfield, and Poly. The Cougars demonstrated determination, good sportsmanship, and team spirit. Our players worked together to score on fast breaks, showcasing hustle, outstanding passes, and excellent teamwork.
 Congratulations to all the award recipients:
Boys Soccer -
MVP Award: Austin
Coaches Award: Matthew B.
Best Defensive Player Award: Aaron
Girls A Basketball -
MVP Award: Ruby; Coaches Awards: Bea and Bella.
Let’s give our athletes a big cheer for representing Clairbourn with effort and teamwork!
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Do you want to know our kindergarten and first grade students celebrated the 100th day of school today? Kindergarteners counted 100 beads to make necklaces, painted 100 dots on hats, and learned that a person who is 100 years old is called a centenarian. They also drew pictures of what they imagined they would look like at age 100. Students took turns showing, describing, and leading the counting of their 100th-day displays. Students stayed silent for 100 seconds and practiced counting to 100 by 5s, 10s, and their favorite fun way: “1, 2, skip a few…99, 100.” They also guessed how far they could walk in 100 steps, then counted as they walked—making it just past the MPB.
 Meanwhile, first-grade students celebrated a double dose of fun—the 100th Day of School and Valentine’s Day today! They proudly created crowns announcing that they are "100 Days Smarter!" Throughout the year, they have been counting each school day on their calendar, eagerly anticipating the moment they could add the $1 bill and flat representing 100. As part of the celebration, one of their centers challenged them to build a structure using 100 cups, encouraging teamwork, creativity, and perseverance. It’s a special milestone marking how much they’ve grown and learned in just 100 days! Take a moment to reflect on how you've grown over the past 100 days!
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Book Review Highlights
At Clairbourn, public speaking begins at a young age. Students not only attend Morning Assembly, but they also demonstrate their abilities in their classrooms on a daily basis. This week, first graders shared their favorite book with their classmates. Each student wrote a review, illustrated artwork for the book, delivered a presentation in front of the class, and answered questions from their peers. Students gain confidence through this experience while learning how to form and share opinions! |
Science in Action
Exploring Earth, Life, and Physics
The sixth grade is studying the processes of weathering, erosion, and deposition which shape the surface of Earth. Students modeled mechanical weathering with limestone and water bottles. Soil is the result of weathering, and students have learned soil texture affects the appearance and drainage of soil, including the soil in the jungle here at Clairbourn. Studying and conserving soil are critical for feeding the world and moving toward a more sustainable future.
The seventh grade has begun their study of kingdom Plantae. They sprouted radish seeds, which are now growing and which have appreciated the recent rain. The students also studied the difference between monocots and dicots, observing bean seeds and corn kernels, which have also  been planted. These take longer to germinate, and the students are eager to see which ones sprout first. The cross-cutting concept of "structure and function" can be seen in the study of the parts of a flower and how they allow angiosperms to successfully survive and reproduce.
The eighth grade is studying force and motion. They learned about the trade-off between force and distance with simple machines, including levers, inclined planes, and pulleys. They are now studying the four forces of flight and how they affect objects like paper airplanes, skydivers, and kites.
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New Date for: Battle of the Books!
The royal battle will take place on Thursday February 20!
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NO SCHOOL 2/14 - 2/18 due to Presidents Day and Teacher In-Service Day |
2/14 - 2/18 NO SCHOOL
2/20 Taco Lunch Day
2/21 All School Assembly & Clairbourn T-Shirt Day
2/25 Habit Lunch Day
2/27 KFC Lunch Day
2/28 Free Dress
**NEW GIRL SCOUT COOKIE SALE DATE**
2/21 AT 3 P.M.
(code: VGXX8EPZ) or text orders to 213-309-9396.
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Used uniform sale!
Thursday, February 20 &
Friday, February 21
8 a.m. - 9 a.m.
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Join CFA Today!
CFA is looking for dedicated parent volunteers to join us in organizing exciting events and supporting our school community. If you're passionate about contributing to a positive learning environment and creating memorable experiences for our students, we'd love to have you on board. Your time and commitment make a real difference. Let's work together to make this Clairbourn community extraordinary! Please email Dana Lee Wong, CFA Parliamentarian. |
If You Traveled West...
Over the past two weeks, the third grade students have been diving into the world of pioneers, reading about life on the trail and working together to complete engaging activities in their workbooks.
From learning about covered wagons to understanding the challenges of pioneer life, these students have been eagerly preparing for their own adventure. Soon, they will set off on the Oregon Trail—right from the classroom! As they continue this hands-on learning experience, they will make critical decisions, overcome obstacles, and experience what it was like to journey west in the 1800s.
Stay tuned for more updates as our young pioneers from third grade head out on the trail!
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Clairbourn Life
The name Valentine comes from a Latin word meaning “strength.” Don't forget to show your acts of kindness and love to those around you! Check out our Cougars spreading their spirit on Valentine's Free Dress Day!
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Field Trip Highlights
Being able to go on field trips is a highlight of a Clairbourn education! Our sixth graders explored Hinduism and Buddhism at the Norton Simon Museum, impressing the docents with their understanding of symbolism and religious concepts. |
February is Black History Month
This week, during the Black History Month presentation, we talked about Morgan Freeman and his contributions to Hollywood.
From 1955 to 1959, Freeman served in the United States Air Force, where he was an Airman First Class. Over his five-decade career in film, he has acted in over 100 movies. He has also narrated many famous documentaries.
Morgan Freeman has achieved many great accomplishments and has paved the way for many African Americans in Hollywood, proving that he is a true leader with heart.
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