Reading
Bettie Weaver Elementary will hold a schoolwide reading of E.B. White’s “Trumpet of the Swans.” Parents, students and teachers will collectively read the book and engage in related activities.
Contact: 378-2540

Feb. 1-29

School Board Appreciation Month
Governor Bob McDonnell has proclaimed February as School Board Appreciation Month to help build awareness of the crucial role that school board members play in communities and schools.
Contact: Gina Patterson, (434) 295-8722

Feb. 13-29

Clothing drive
Providence Middle is collecting clothes for St. Joseph’s Villa.
Contact: Megan Bryant, 674-1355

Feb. 20-24

Spirit
Bailey Bridge Middle SCA will sponsor Spirit Week with a different theme each day.
Contact: 739-6200

Feb. 21

Meeting
The School Board will conduct a work session at 5:30 p.m. in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road to discuss the budget and implementing the Design for Excellence 2020 strategic plan.
Contact: 748-1405

Living history
Hening Elementary fifth-grade students will present a living wax museum for the PTO 7-8 p.m.
Contact: Nancy Mulvihill, 743-3655

Presentation
Beulah Elementary first-grade students will have a flag presentation.
Contact: 743-3620

Meeting
Carver Middle will host a rising sixth-grade night for parents and students. Students who will attend Carver Middle for the 2012-2013 school year are encouraged to attend.
Contact: 524-3620

Field trip
Swift Creek Elementary fifth-grade students will visit the MathScience Innovation Center to examine how an oil spill in the Chesapeake Bay could impact their community.
Contact: Amelia Phillips or Amy Zombron, 739-6305

Meeting
Gordon Elementary PTA will meet at 6:30 p.m.
Contact: 378-2410

Meeting
Bensley Elementary PTA will meet 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Contact: 743-3610

Feb. 21, Feb. 23, Feb. 28 and March 1

Art class
Monacan High’s Art Department will host a free art class 6-8 p.m. for parents, grandparents and community members. Called “Fishsticks,” the class is limited to 30 participants.
Contact: Melinda Carson, 378-2480

Feb. 22

Presentation
Southern Knights Cruisers will present flags to Hening Elementary first-graders 2:30-3:15 p.m.
Contact: Mercy Mize, 743-3655

Flags
A local veterans group will present a flag program to Chalkley Elementary first-grade students, teaching them about the history and how to show respect for the flag.
Contact: 674-1300

Reading
As part of Black History Month, Curtis Elementary is participating in the National African-American Read-In.
Contact: 768-6175

Practice
Gordon Elementary will practice 3:45-5 p.m. for its STEM Olympics. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Contact: 378-2410

Feb. 23

Meeting
The Liaison Committee, which includes members of the Chesterfield County School Board and members of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors, will meet at 1:30 p.m. in Room 502 of the Lane B. Ramsey Administration Building, 9901 Lori Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Faculty vs. students
Bailey Bridge Middle faculty members will compete against students in a basketball game in the Manchester High main gymnasium at 7 p.m.
Contact: 739-6200

Math
Virginia Sports Hall of Fame representatives will work with Davis Elementary kindergarten students in math.
Contact: 674-1310

Assembly
Providence Middle will hold an assembly with Davis Elementary fifth-grade students.
Contact: 674-1310

Concert
The Specialty Center for the Visual and Performing Arts at Thomas Dale High will hold a free pre-festival assessment concert at 7 p.m.
Contact: 768-6245

Competition
Robious Middle will hold a Battle of the Books competition at 1:30 p.m.
Contact: 378-2510

Concert
Tomahawk Creek Middle’s intermediate and advanced band will hold a pre-festival concert 7-8 p.m.
Contact: Andy Brock, 378-7120

Awards
Patriot Pride Awards will go to Gordon Elementary students who displayed the core values of respect, responsibility, honesty and accountability.
Contact: 378-2410

Reading
Bensley Elementary’s library will be open 6-8 p.m. for families to read together.
Contact: 743-3610

Feb. 24

Visit
Author Graham Salisbury will speak to Elizabeth Davis Middle eighth-grade students at 11 a.m.
Contact: 541-4700

Workshop
Beulah Elementary Title I will hold a kindergarten workshop 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the cafeteria.
Contact: 743-3620

Assembly
Former NFL player Mark Parson of the New Orleans Saints will visit Providence Elementary to conduct an assembly focused on academic success. He will share a NFL workout and read from a book he is publishing about his son. Mark Parson attended elementary school in Chesterfield County.
Contact: 674-1345

Young Authors Day
Every student at Chalkley Elementary will share their writing with other students in their grade level.
Contact: 674-1300

Field trip
Matoaca Elementary fourth-grade students will visit Pamplin Historical Park 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. to experience a hands-on day of learning about the Civil War.
Contact: Jackie Ferguson, 590-3100

Visit
Meteorologist Mike Goldberg will talk about weather at 1:30 p.m. to Curtis Elementary fourth-graders.
Contact: 768-6175

Feb. 25

Seminar
National speaker John Swann will hold a seminar 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in the Midlothian High auditorium, sharing information on how to get higher scores on the SAT reasoning test. Students will get a better understanding of the SAT, specific strategies to boost scores and a booklet of practice materials. Admission is free, but students must register online at mychesterfieldschools.com to attend. A repeat presentation will be held April 28 in the Monacan High auditorium.
Contact: 594-1743 or 279-7319

Winterfest
Families are invited to Winterfest at Crestwood Elementary 3-7 p.m. This event will include games, prizes, face painting, bake sale, inflatables and bingo.
Contact: 560-2710

Feb. 27

Flag program
American Legion members will visit Reams Road Elementary to teach first-graders about the flag.
Contact: 674-1370

Speaker
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Gwen Bingham will speak at a 9:30-11 a.m. Black History Month program hosted by Manchester Middle’s Junior Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps.
Contact: 674-1385

Open house
Students, parents and members of the public are invited to explore the 29 programs at the Chesterfield Technical Center during an open house 1-3 p.m. On hand to answer questions and demonstrate career opportunities will be teachers, administrators, students and business partners of the school.
Contact: Larry Diehl, 768-6160, ext. 1015

Field trip
Carver Middle sixth-graders will travel to Swift Creek Mill Theatre to see “Tuskegee Peanut Man: The Inventions of George Washington Carver.”
Contact: 524-3620

Assembly
Chalkley Elementary will hold a second quarter awards assembly for fifth-graders 9-9:45 a.m. and for second-graders 1:45-2:30 p.m.
Contact: 674-1300

Feb. 27-March 2

Reading
Davis Elementary will celebrate Dr. Seuss and Read Across America.
Contact: 674-1310

Reading
Hopkins Road Elementary will celebrate Dr. Seuss and Read Across America with various events throughout the week.
Contact: 743-3665

Feb. 27-28 and March 1-2

Visit
Storyteller Jeff Beatman will visit Swift Creek Elementary kindergarten, first- and second-grade classes 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. as part of Read Across America Week.
Contact: Peggy Innes, 739-6305

Feb. 27-March 9

Book fair
Gordon Elementary will hold a book fair. Family night will be 5:30-7:30 p.m. March 8.
Contact: 378-2410

Feb. 28

Meeting
The School Board will conduct a business meeting 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road. At 4:30 p.m. in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road, the board will hold a work session on audits, Head Start and the 2012-13 calendar.
Contact: 748-1405

Field trip
Beulah Elementary fourth-grade students will visit Pamplin Historical Park 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Contact: 743-3620

Reading event
Parents and students of Hopkins Elementary will read books, take Reading Counts quizzes and enjoyg crafts at Reading Counts Night at 6:30 p.m.
Contact: 743-3665

France
As part of its celebration of different cultures, Woolridge Elementary will celebrate France 6-7 p.m. with stories, food, children’s engineering, decorations, a chocolatier and French students from Cosby High.
Contact: 739-6330

Book fair
Barnes & Noble at Commonwealth Parkway will host a book fair 6-8:30 p.m. to benefit Hening Elementary.
Contact: Cynthia Shankle, 743-3655

Reading
In celebration of Read Across America, Providence Middle teachers will read all day in fifteen minute increments to students in the library.
Contact: Stephanie Stargardt, 674-1355

Assembly
Chalkley Elementary will hold a second quarter awards assembly for fourth-graders 9:45-10:25 a.m. and for third-graders 2:10-2:50 p.m.
Contact: 674-1300

Feb. 29

Early release
Chesterfield County Public Schools will dismiss students three hours early so that teachers can participate in professional development.
Contact: 748-1405

Celebration
There will be an SOL celebration in the Chalkley Elementary gymnasium 8:45-9:30 a.m. for third- through fifth-grade students.
Contact: 674-1300

Breakfast
Members of the School Board will meet with faith leaders at 8 a.m. in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Meeting
Swift Creek Elementary will hold a Peaceful School Bus meeting 9-9:45 a.m., so students can learn about citizenship, problem solving and anti-bullying strategies through activities, reflection and discussion.
Contact: Bruce Fillman, 739-6305

Celebration
Elizabeth Scott Elementary has been awarded the Exemplary Reading Award by the Virginia State Reading Association. To celebrate, there will be a luncheon for the staff at 1 p.m. in the cafeteria followed by a slideshow.
Contact: 541-4660

March 1

Arts Rock
Crestwood Elementary will celebrate Youth Art Month and Music in Our Schools Month with Arts Rock. The 6-8:30 p.m. event will include music, a gallery of student artwork, face painting and a silent auction.
Contact: Whitney Gonzalez, 560-2710

Career fair
Meadowbrook High will hold its second annual career fair 9-10:30 a.m. in the auxiliary gym.
Contact: Teddy Mintz, 743-3675, ext. 215

Concert
Cosby High will host a pyramid concert 7-8 p.m. featuring the advanced bands of Cosby High, Swift Creek Middle and Tomahawk Creek Middle. Admission is free.
Contact: Andy Brock, 378-7120

Festival
An International Food Festival will be held in the Bailey Bridge Middle cafeteria 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Contact: 739-6200

Field trip
Woolridge Elementary second-grade students will visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Contact: 739-6330

Battle of the Books
The countywide Battle of the Books will be held at 7 p.m. at Elizabeth Davis Middle.
Contact: 541-4700

Concert
A 7 p.m. pyramid concert at Matoaca High will include performances by Matoaca Elementary fifth-graders, Matoaca Middle students and Matoaca High students.
Contact: Leah Kovack, 590-3100

Visit
Mark Kistler will visit Matoaca Elementary to teach students and teachers to draw in 3D. He has written many drawing books, produced several DVDs and has a PBS program, “Imagination Station.” He will work 1-1:50 p.m. with grades K-2 and 2:10-3 p.m. with grades 3-5.
Contact: Judy Ayscue, 590-3100

March 2

Reading
Guest readers will visit Watkins Elementary to celebrate Dr. Seuss Day during Read Across America Week.
Contact: Mallory Smith, 378-2530

Art
An exhibit of work by student artists and recent graduates from Cosby High will open 6-9 p.m. at the Visual Arts Studio, 208 W. Broad St. The display will continue through March 30.
Contact: 644-1368

Presentation
First-graders at Bettie Weaver Elementary will present “A Salute to America” at 9:45 a.m. Members of the Virginia Air National Guard color guard will present and dismiss the colors.
Contact: 378-2540

Reading
Bettie Weaver Elementary students will celebrate Read Across America Day.
Contact: 378-2540

Field trip
Matoaca Elementary students involved in Fuel Up to Play 60 pilot program will attend the Fort Lee culinary arts fair 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Contact: Ellen Nichols, 590-3100

Reading
Capital One employees will read at Chalkley Elementary in celebration of Dr. Seuss’ birthday.
Contact: 674-1300

Assembly
Chalkley Elementary will hold a second quarter awards assembly for kindergarten students 8:50-9:30 a.m. and for first-graders 1:45-2:30 p.m.
Contact: 674-1300

March 3

French event
Chesterfield County will host the annual French Congrès 9:45 a.m.-3 p.m. at James River High. Hundreds of students from across the region will compete, demonstrating their passion for the French language and culture.
Contact: Allyson Midgley, 639-4940

Ceremony
The County Council of PTAs/PTSAs will honor Reflections winners during a ceremony at Cosby High.
Contact: 639-8340

March 4-10

National School Social Work Week
This is National School Social Work Week.
Contact: 594-1661

March 5-9

Book fair
Salem Church Middle will hold a book fair in the library during school hours. Family night will be 6-7:30 p.m. March 6.
Contact: 768-6225

National School Breakfast Week
This is National School Breakfast Week.
Contact: Sandy Stokes, 743-3717

March 6

Performance
The Monacan Singers and Innovation, two choruses from Monacan High, will perform for grades 3-5 at Evergreen Elementary at 2 p.m.
Contact: 378-2400

March 7

Writers
Midlothian Middle’s Guild of Young Authors will meet with children’s author Gigi Amateau noon-1:15 p.m. in the library.
Contact: Christy Martin, 378-2460

March 8

China and Egypt
As part of its celebration of different cultures, Woolridge Elementary will celebrate China and Egypt 6-7 p.m. with food tasting, children’s engineering, Children’s Museum tours and Chinese dancers.
Contact: 739-6330

Performance
Storyteller and folk musician Bill Wellington will perform at Evergreen Elementary at 6:30 p.m. to celebrate reading. He will also perform for students during the day.
Contact: 378-2400

March 8-11

Musical
Robious Middle will present “Willie Wonka Jr. the Musical.”
Contact: 378-2510

March 9

Performance
Theatre IV will perform “Oliver Hill” at the Matoaca Middle west campus at 9:30 a.m. and at the east campus at 1:30 p.m.
Contact: 590-3110

Art
The Appomattox Regional Governor’s School Visual Arts Department will present the seventh annual Student Spring Gala Exhibition 6-8 p.m. at the Petersburg Area Art League, 7 E. Old St. This year’s show will be on display in the downstairs Members Gallery and will feature drawing, painting, graphic design, photography and sculpture.
Contact: Allison Rowe, 722-0200, Ext. 313

March 10

Bee
Chesterfield County Public Schools spelling champ Michael Benos will compete in the regional spelling bee at 1 p.m. at the Library of Virginia.
Contact: 748-1405

March 12

Meeting
The School Health Advisory Board will meet 7-9 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
Contact: 594-1757

Ongoing
Award
April 6 is the deadline to nominate someone for an Outstanding Youth Award. Forms are online at www.chesterfield.gov/youthawards.
Contact: 796-7100

Partnership
The Chesterfield Federal Credit Union will donate to the Chesterfield Public Education Foundation a portion of purchases made using Visa Emerald or Visa debit cards in February and March.
Contact: 748-1405

What’s Next Wednesdays
As part of What’s Next Wednesdays, fourth-grade students at Spring Run Elementary have written about their goals, education and jobs in the future. This spring, they will revise and edit their papers, type them and send them to the printer to publish their writings into a book titled “In Twenty Years” that is published for students every year.
Contact: 639-6352

Nails
Students at the Chesterfield Technical Center offer manicures, pedicures and foot massages 11 a.m.-1 p.m. weekdays, staying open until 3 p.m. on Tuesdays.
Contact: 768-6160, ext. 1046

Enrichment
Gordon Elementary will hold enrichment classes every Thursday through Feb. 23.
Contact: 378-2410

R.E.B. Awards
Nominations are being accepted for the R.E.B. Awards for Teaching Excellence, which are designed to identify, recognize and support teaching excellence in Richmond area public school systems. Professional development grants ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 each will be awarded to teachers who have distinguished themselves by their inspiring classroom performance. Nomination forms are available online at www.tcfrichmond.org and in the school offices. Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. Feb. 23.
Contact: www.tcfrichmond.org

Art
The art teachers at Watkins Elementary have teamed with Artsonia, the world’s largest online kid’s art museum, to display student artwork at
www.artsonia.com/schools/watkins1.
Contact: 378-2530

Enrichment
Bettie Weaver Elementary will hold enrichment classes beginning Jan. 24 and continuing for five weeks. A variety of after-school enrichment classes will be offered and are provided by teachers, parents and community members.
Contact: 378-2540

Books
Watkins Elementary is partnering with the Book Exchange on Midlothian Turnpike to give students who were not able to purchase books at the book fair an opportunity to purchase books. When turning in books for exchange, just ask that Watkins Elementary be on the credit slip. This will allow designated students the opportunity to go to the Book Exchange and choose a book for themselves.
Contact: Mallory Smith, 378-2530

After-school program
Bensley Elementary runs an after-school program on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through April 24. Students receive remedial instruction in reading, math and writing. Enrichment activities include Mad Science and a self-esteem group.
Contact: 743-3610

Reading challenge
Elizabeth Scott Elementary has challenged students to read at least 20 minutes a night. Students are graphing their minutes at school and at each milestone (500, 1,000, 1,500 and 2,000 minutes), they receive a special bracelet and schoolwide recognition.
Contact: 541-4660

Interact Club
Clover Hill High’s Interact Club is helping the community in a variety of ways: picking up trash, volunteering at the Midlothian Food Festival, donating more than 700 pounds of food to the Central Virginia Food Bank and sponsoring a Chesterfield family through the Christmas Mother.
Contact: Rebekah Amato, 639-4940, ext. 6315

Community service
Monacan High students are making a difference in the community through various clubs. They help build ramps for those in need, hold canned food drives, collect coats, sort food for the Christmas Mother, collect jeans for the homeless and work with ESPN and the Salvation Army to collect sporting goods for children ages 10-17.
Contact: 378-2480

Savings bank
Watkins Elementary students have the opportunity to establish a savings account, make deposits and learn about the banking process, supported by Essex Bank. A bank representative will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings to assist students.
Contact: 378-2530

Reading buddies
First-graders at Chalkley Elementary get together with their reading buddies at 1 p.m. on Fridays.
Contact: 674-1300

Reading
Swift Creek Middle participates in the Accelerated Reader Program. Each book in the library has an Accelerated Reader test that enables students to choose their favorite genre, authors and titles, then check their reading skills after they read.
Contact: 739-6315

Student recognition
Alberta Smith Elementary will recognize students for demonstrating the core values during a 7:45 a.m. breakfast on the first Thursday of each month.
Contact: Elizabeth Stefanko, 739-6295

Manners
At Chalkley Elementary, small groups of fifth-graders will meet weekly for Manners on the Move.
Contact: 674-1300

Family reading nights
Harrowgate Elementary’s library will be open 6-8 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month for families to spend quality time together, share interests, discuss books and check out books.
Contact: Susan Bochman, 520-6015

Chess
The Watkins Elementary Chess Club will meet 8:15-9:10 a.m. the first Friday morning of each month in the cafeteria.
Contact: Becky Rose, 594-3519

Fitness
Swift Creek Elementary’s Jog/Walk Club will meet at 8:40 a.m. Tuesdays on the school track.
Contact: 739-6305

Student of the Month
Spring Run Elementary fifth-graders will be recognized each month with the Student of the Month program.
Contact: 639-6352

Peaceful School Bus
Woolridge Elementary is implementing the Peaceful School Bus program, designed to create a climate of respect and cooperation on the bus. The program aims to build strong, positive relationships among students and bus drivers.
Contact: Nancy Drum, 739-6330

Make A Change
The Make A Change Club at Swift Creek Middle works to eliminate bullying and promote positive social behaviors among students. The MAC Club will work throughout the year to make a difference.
Contact: 739-6315

Fuel Up to Play 60
Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school health and fitness program sponsored by the NFL and the National Dairy Council. The James Farrior Foundation also supports Chesterfield schools involved with Fuel Up to Play 60. This year, six elementary schools in Chesterfield County — Hopkins, Jacobs Road, Davis, Crestwood, Matoaca and Spring Run — are piloting something new for this national program: collecting student data to see how Fuel Up to Play 60 improves health and fitness throughout the school year.
Contact: 748-1405

Exercise
As part of the Fuel Up to Play 60, Spring Run Elementary will have a 20-minute morning exercise or activity each Monday and Friday 7:50-8:10 a.m.
Contact: 639-6352

Business and Community Resource Bank
The Business and Community Resource Bank offers an easy way to make a difference in schools by connecting people willing to share their knowledge with teachers who need classroom speakers or volunteers. Whether a community member would like to speak about his area of expertise, participate in a career day or mentor a student, the resource bank can make the connection with a school. To participate, fill out the resource bank survey at mychesterfieldschools.com.
Contact: 748-1405

Mileage Club
Greenfield Elementary’s Mileage Club will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Contact: Jennie Raugh, 560-2720

Mentors
Hening Elementary’s Shooting Stars mentoring program is entering its fourth year. The program matches students with staff mentors. Shooting Stars receives support from the Virginia Mentoring Partnership Organization through VCU.
Contact: Kitten Gilmore, 743-3655

Lunch wishes
At Hening Elementary, the Lunch Lady Program helps students who cannot pay for lunch. It is funded by contributions from the PTA, parents, staff members and community. Last year, more than 2,100 lunches were covered.
Contact: 743-3655

Book group
Providence Middle teachers are setting a great example for students: They are increasing their vocabulary by participating in Teachers R Reading book group.
Contact: 674-1355

Volunteers
Volunteer readers from Enterprise Holdings read to second- and third-grade students at Hening Elementary on most Wednesdays.
Contact: Bethany Dancey, 743-3655

Free supplies for school employees
From Crayons to Computers is packed with donated school and office supplies to be given away. Located in the Spring Rock Green shopping center at 7138 Midlothian Turnpike, the store is open to all Chesterfield County Public Schools employees 2:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when school is in session. Donations are welcome and are tax-deductible.
Contact: 276-7407 or 305-4279

The full calendar proposed for 2012-13 accompanies this news release; here are a few details:

• Classes begin Sept. 4, the first Tuesday after Labor Day. Classes end June 14.
• There are 181 student days, two more than the current school year.
• Winter break is Dec. 19-Jan. 1, and spring break is April 1-5.
• To continue to provide collaborative planning and professional development time for teachers, the calendar includes seven early release days for students. These three-hour early release days fall on the last Wednesday of the month: Sept. 26, Oct. 31, Nov. 28, Jan. 30, Feb. 27, March 27 and April 24.
• Students will also be released three hours early on Nov. 21, which is the start of Thanksgiving break, and on June 13-14, which are teacher workdays.

Download the proposed calendar

Reading
Bettie Weaver Elementary will hold a schoolwide reading of E.B. White’s “Trumpet of the Swans.” Parents, students and teachers will collectively read the book and engage in related activities.
Contact: 378-2540

Feb. 1-29

School Board Appreciation Month
Governor Bob McDonnell has proclaimed February as School Board Appreciation Month to help build awareness of the crucial role that school board members play in communities and schools.
Contact: Gina Patterson, (434) 295-8722

Feb. 13

SOL Night
Matoaca Elementary parents and students are invited 6-7:45 p.m. to eat pizza, attend workshops and play “Are You Smarter Than Your Student?” A representative from Chesterfield Mental Health will discuss with parents how to handle difficult behaviors.
Contact: Debbie Wessel, 590-3100

Meeting
The County Council of PTAs/PTSAs will meet at 7 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Blood drive
Alberta Smith Elementary and Crenshaw Elementary will sponsor a community blood drive 3:30-7 p.m. in the Crenshaw Elementary gymnasium. Call 739-6299 to schedule an appointment.
Contact: 739-6295

Feb. 13-17

School Bus Driver Appreciation Week
This is a week to appreciate school bus drivers.
Contact: 748-1405

Event
Davis Elementary students will participate in Jump Rope for Heart.
Contact: 674-1310

Event
During P.E. classes, Matoaca Elementary students will work through jumping circuits and learn about the importance of physical activity and nutrition as part of Jump Rope for Heart.
Contact: Ellen Nicholls, 590-3100

Feb. 13-29

Clothing drive
Providence Middle is collecting clothes for St. Joseph’s Villa.
Contact: Megan Bryant, 674-1355

Feb. 14

Meeting
The Chesterfield County School Board will meet at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road. The meeting will include a public hearing on the proposed FY 2013 budget. At 4 p.m. in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road, the board will hold a work session on grading practices and the 2012-13 calendar.
Contact: 748-1405

Annual event
Spring Run Elementary will host its annual Jump/Hoops for Heart and Resource Night at 6:30 p.m. Jump/Hoops for Heart event is a family program that highlights making healthy heart choices and the importance of daily physical activity and healthy eating. During Resource Night, students and parents can visit resource areas, including art and music, and enjoy activities related to each area.
Contact: 639-6352

Treats
Davis Elementary students will get valentine treats.
Contact: 674-1310

Giving
Salem Church Middle students who donate to the American Heart Association can wear a hat to school.
Contact: 768-6225

Field trip
Fourth-grade classes from Hening Elementary will visit the Virginia Historical Society to view the “Celebrate Virginia” exhibit.
Contact: Bethany Dancey, 743-3655

Field trip
Matoaca Elementary first-grade students will visit the Science Museum of Virginia.
Contact: Meredith Torres, 590-3100

Feb. 14-16

Book fair
Clover Hill High will hold a book fair 7 a.m.-3 p.m. in the library.
Contact: 639-4940

Feb. 15

100th day of school
Davis Elementary will celebrate 100 days of school with events throughout the school, including everyone wearing 100 of something, the chorus singing the “100th Day Song” at the 100th minute of the day and student bringing in food bank donations.
Contact: 674-1310

Battle of the Books
Matoaca Middle and Elizabeth Davis Middle students will compete in a Battle of the Books.
Contact: 590-3130

Program
Evergreen Elementary first-grade students will present a flag program at 2 p.m.
Contact: 378-2400

What’s Next Wednesdays
Building on Chesterfield Goes to College Week, the school system is promoting college and career readiness with What’s Next Wednesdays. The theme for students on these days is to identify what’s next as they plan for postsecondary education and future career.
Contact: 748-1405

Visit
Parents have been invited to speak to Spring Run Elementary third-grade students 2-2:30 p.m. about their college and career experiences and describe the benefits and what it meant to them as part of What’s Next Wednesday.
Contact: 639-6352

Induction
At 7 p.m. in the main auditorium, new students will be inducted into the National Art Honor Society at the Specialty Center for the Visual and Performing Arts at Thomas Dale High.
Contact: 768-6245

Skate night
Reams Road Elementary families will skate at Skate Away.
Contact: 674-1370

Meeting
The Budget and Audit Committee will meet at 10:30 a.m. in Room 502 of the Lane B. Ramsey Administration Building, 9901 Lori Road.
Contact: 748-1161

Feb. 15-16

Visit
Chef Ann Butler from Edible Education will visit Evergreen Elementary.
Contact: 378-2400

Feb. 15-17 and Feb. 21

Field trip
Swift Creek Elementary fifth-grade students will visit the MathScience Innovation Center to examine how an oil spill in the Chesapeake Bay could impact their community.
Contact: Amelia Phillips or Amy Zombron, 739-6305

Feb. 16

Shadowing teachers
Six Lloyd C. Bird High students will shadow teachers at Beulah Elementary.
Contact: 743-3620

Assembly
Former NFL player Mark Parson of the New Orleans Saints will visit Chalkley Elementary to conduct an assembly focused on academic success. He will share a NFL workout and read from a book he is publishing about his son. Mark Parson attended elementary school in Chesterfield County and played football for the Chalkley Athletic Association.
Contact: 674-1300

Concert
A pyramid concert at Bird High will include students from Salem Church Middle and Bird High.
Contact: 768-6225

Field trip
Reams Road Elementary prekindergarten and early childhood special education students will visit the Richmond SPCA to learn how to care for a pet.
Contact: 674-1370

Math night
Alberta Smith Elementary will hold math night at Food Lion in Deer Run Shopping Center 6-8 p.m.
Contact: 739-6295

Dance
Ecoff Elementary will hold its third annual daddy-and-daughter dance 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Contact: 768-6185

Reception
Carver Middle’s PTA will hold a reception at 8:45 a.m. to recognize students for displaying the core value of respect.
Contact: 524-3620

Feb. 17

Living museum
Manchester Middle will hold its second annual African-American Living Wax Museum 6-6:45 p.m. Sixth-grade science students will portray African-American scientists and inventors.
Contact: Jacqueline Marshall, 674-1385

Dance
Chalkley Elementary’s PTA will sponsor a mother-and-son dance 6-8 p.m. in the gymnasium.
Contact: 674-1300

Music
Providence Middle students will perform for Reams Road Elementary and explain the different music options offered.
Contact: 674-1370

Field trip
Beulah Elementary prekindergarten classes will visit the Children’s Museum of Richmond 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Contact: 743-3620

Dental lessons
Beulah Elementary first-grade students will have dental lessons 10 a.m.-3:20 p.m.
Contact: 743-3620

Breakfast
Ecoff Elementary and Vulcan Materials will recognize students who attained the A or A/B honor roll during the second nine weeks with a light breakfast and ceremony 8:15-9 a.m. in the cafeteria. Students chosen for the Kiwanis’ Terrific Kid award will also be recognized.
Contact: 768-6185

Family night
Curtis Elementary will hold its annual Family Fun Night 6:30-8:30 p.m. Pizza will be served in the cafeteria. Games and entertainment, such as a moon bounce, giant slide and demonstrations, will be stationed throughout the school.
Contact: 768-6175

Recognition
Throughout the day, Matoaca Elementary will recognize students who achieved A or A/B honor roll as well as the BUG award (Bringing Up a Grade).
Contact: Debbie Wessel, 590-3100

Feb. 18

Awards ceremony
Matoaca High art students will be honored at the second annual Scholastic Awards ceremony for their winning artwork, which will be on exhibit at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts through March 18. Their artwork is being judged against work by students from across the country, with national winners announced March 15.
Contact: 590-3108

Recognition
Alberta Smith Elementary students with all A’s or E’s on their report cards will be recognized during the University of Richmond basketball game.
Contact: 739-6295

Carnival
Swift Creek Elementary’s PTA is sponsoring a winter carnival noon-4 p.m. with carnival games, concessions, inflatables, a prize room and cake walk.
Contact: Sharon Parker, 744-0985

Feb. 20

Closed
The schools and offices of Chesterfield County Public Schools will be closed.
Contact: 748-1405

Feb. 20-24

Spirit
Bailey Bridge Middle SCA will sponsor Spirit Week with a different theme each day.
Contact: 739-6200

Feb. 21

Living history
Hening Elementary fifth-grade students will present a living wax museum for the PTO 7-8 p.m.
Contact: Nancy Mulvihill, 743-3655

Presentation
Beulah Elementary first-grade students will have a flag presentation.
Contact: 743-3620

Feb. 21, Feb. 23, Feb. 28 and March 1

Art class
Monacan High’s Art Department will host a free art class 6-8 p.m. for parents, grandparents and community members. Called “Fishsticks,” the class is limited to 30 participants.
Contact: Melinda Carson, 378-2480

Feb. 22

Presentation
Southern Knights Cruisers will present flags to Hening Elementary first-graders 2:30-3:15 p.m.
Contact: Mercy Mize, 743-3655

Flags
A local veterans group will present a flag program to Chalkley Elementary first-grade students, teaching them about the history and how to show respect for the flag.
Contact: 674-1300

Reading
As part of Black History Month, Curtis Elementary is participating in the National African-American Read-In.
Contact: 768-6175

Feb. 23

Meeting
The Liaison Committee, which includes members of the Chesterfield County School Board and members of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors, will meet at 1:30 p.m. in Room 502 of the Lane B. Ramsey Administration Building, 9901 Lori Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Faculty vs. students
Bailey Bridge Middle faculty members will compete against students in a basketball game in the Manchester High main gymnasium at 7 p.m.
Contact: 739-6200

Math
Virginia Sports Hall of Fame will work with Davis Elementary kindergarten students in math.
Contact: 674-1310

Assembly
Providence Middle will hold an assembly with Davis Elementary fifth-grade students.
Contact: 674-1310

Concert
The Specialty Center for the Visual and Performing Arts at Thomas Dale High will hold a free pre-festival assessment concert at 7 p.m.
Contact: 768-6245

Competition
Robious Middle will hold a Battle of the Books competition at 1:30 p.m.
Contact: 378-2510

Concert
Tomahawk Creek Middle’s intermediate and advanced band will hold a pre-festival concert 7-8 p.m.
Contact: Andy Brock, 378-7120

Feb. 24

Workshop
Beulah Elementary Title I will hold a kindergarten workshop 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the cafeteria.
Contact: 743-3620

Assembly
Former NFL player Mark Parson of the New Orleans Saints will visit Providence Elementary to conduct an assembly focused on academic success. He will share a NFL workout and read from a book he is publishing about his son. Mark Parson attended elementary school in Chesterfield County.
Contact: 674-1345

Young Authors Day
Every student at Chalkley Elementary will share their writing with other students in their grade level.
Contact: 674-1300

Feb. 25

Seminar
National speaker John Swann will hold a seminar 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in the Midlothian High auditorium, sharing information on how to get higher scores on the SAT reasoning test. Students will get a better understanding of the SAT, specific strategies to boost scores and a booklet of practice materials. Admission is free, but students must register online at mychesterfieldschools.com to attend. A repeat presentation will be held April 28 in the Monacan High auditorium.
Contact: 594-1743 or 279-7319

Winterfest
Families are invited to Winterfest at Crestwood Elementary 3-7 p.m. This event will include games, prizes, face painting, bake sale, inflatables and bingo.
Contact: 560-2710

Feb. 27

Flag program
American Legion members will visit Reams Road Elementary to teach first-graders about the flag.
Contact: 674-1370

Speaker
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Gwen Bingham will speak at a 9:30-11 a.m. Black History Month program hosted by Manchester Middle’s Junior Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps.
Contact: 674-1385

Open house
Students, parents and members of the public are invited to explore the 29 programs at the Chesterfield Technical Center during an open house 1-3 p.m. On hand to answer questions and demonstrate career opportunities will be teachers, administrators, students and business partners of the school.
Contact: Larry Diehl, 768-6160, ext. 1015

Feb. 27-March 2

Reading
Davis Elementary will celebrate Dr. Seuss and Read Across America.
Contact: 674-1310

Feb. 27-28 and March 1-2

Visit
Storyteller Jeff Beatman will visit Swift Creek Elementary kindergarten, first- and second-grade classes 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. as part of Read Across America Week.
Contact: Peggy Innes, 739-6305

Feb. 28

Meeting
The School Board will conduct a business meeting 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road. At 4:30 p.m. in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road, the board will hold a work session on audits, Head Start and the 2012-13 calendar.
Contact: 748-1405

Field trip
Beulah Elementary fourth-grade students will visit Pamplin Historical Park 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Contact: 743-3620

Reading
Hopkins Elementary will hold Reading Counts Night.
Contact: 743-3665

France
As part of its celebration of different cultures, Woolridge Elementary will celebrate France 6-7 p.m. with stories, food, children’s engineering, decorations, a chocolatier and French students from Cosby High.
Contact: 739-6330

Book fair
Barnes & Noble at Commonwealth Parkway will host a book fair 6-8:30 p.m. to benefit Hening Elementary.
Contact: Cynthia Shankle, 743-3655

Feb. 29

Early release
Chesterfield County Public Schools will dismiss students three hours early so that teachers can participate in professional development.
Contact: 748-1405

Breakfast
Members of the School Board will meet with faith leaders at 8 a.m. in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Meeting
Swift Creek Elementary will hold a Peaceful School Bus meeting 9-9:45 a.m., so students can learn about citizenship, problem solving and anti-bullying strategies through activities, reflection and discussion.
Contact: Bruce Fillman, 739-6305

March 1

Career fair
Meadowbrook High will hold its second annual career fair 9-10:30 a.m. in the auxiliary gym.
Contact: Teddy Mintz, 743-3675, ext. 215

Concert
Cosby High will host a pyramid concert 7-8 p.m. featuring the advanced bands of Cosby High, Swift Creek Middle and Tomahawk Creek Middle. Admission is free.
Contact: Andy Brock, 378-7120

Festival
An International Food Festival will be held in the Bailey Bridge Middle cafeteria 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Contact: 739-6200

Field trip
Woolridge Elementary second-grade students will visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Contact: 739-6330

Arts Rock
Crestwood Elementary will celebrate Youth Art Month and Music in Our Schools Month with Arts Rock. The 6-8:30 p.m. event will include music, a gallery of student artwork, face painting and a silent auction.
Contact: Whitney Gonzalez, 560-2710

Battle of the Books
The countywide Battle of the Books will be held at 7 p.m. at Elizabeth Davis Middle.
Contact: 541-4700

March 2

Reading
Guest readers will visit Watkins Elementary to celebrate Dr. Seuss Day during Read Across America Week.
Contact: Mallory Smith, 378-2530

Art
An exhibit of work by student artists and recent graduates from Cosby High will open 6-9 p.m. at the Visual Arts Studio, 208 W. Broad St. The display will continue through March 30.
Contact: 644-1368

March 3

French event
Chesterfield County will host the annual French Congrès 9:45 a.m.-3 p.m. at James River High. Hundreds of students from across the region will compete, demonstrating their passion for the French language and culture.
Contact: Allyson Midgley, 639-4940

Ceremony
The County Council of PTAs/PTSAs will honor Reflections winners during a ceremony at Cosby High.
Contact: 639-8340

March 4-10

National School Social Work Week
This is National School Social Work Week.
Contact: 594-1661

March 5-9

Book fair
Salem Church Middle will hold a book fair in the library during school hours. Family night will be 6-7:30 p.m. March 6.
Contact: 768-6225

National School Breakfast Week
This is National School Breakfast Week.
Contact: Sandy Stokes, 743-3717

Ongoing

Super Teacher Award
The Virginia Lottery is seeking nominations for the Super Teacher Award, which is designed to honor outstanding Virginia public school teachers for their dedication and commitment. Nomination forms, which are due by Feb. 14, can be found online at www.valottery.com/promotion/teacher/.
Contact: 594-1753

Partnership
The Chesterfield Federal Credit Union will donate to the Chesterfield Public Education Foundation a portion of purchases made using Visa Emerald or Visa debit cards in February and March.
Contact: 748-1405

Chinese New Year
Watkins Elementary students will celebrate Chinese New Year, the start of the year of the dragon. Art by more than 100 students is on display at the Barnes & Noble at Chesterfield Towne Center through Feb. 15.
Contact: Jenny Youman, 378-2530

What’s Next Wednesdays
As part of What’s Next Wednesdays, fourth-grade students at Spring Run Elementary have written about their goals, education and jobs in the future. This spring, they will revise and edit their papers, type them and send them to the printer to publish their writings into a book titled “In Twenty Years” that is published for students every year.
Contact: 639-6352

Nails
Students at the Chesterfield Technical Center offer manicures, pedicures and foot massages 11 a.m.-1 p.m. weekdays, staying open until 3 p.m. on Tuesdays.
Contact: 768-6160, ext. 1046

Enrichment
Gordon Elementary will hold enrichment classes every Thursday through Feb. 23.
Contact: 378-2410

R.E.B. Awards
Nominations are being accepted for the R.E.B. Awards for Teaching Excellence, which are designed to identify, recognize and support teaching excellence in Richmond area public school systems. Professional development grants ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 each will be awarded to teachers who have distinguished themselves by their inspiring classroom performance. Nomination forms are available online at www.tcfrichmond.org and in the school offices. Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. Feb. 23.
Contact: www.tcfrichmond.org

Art
The art teachers at Watkins Elementary have teamed with Artsonia, the world’s largest online kid’s art museum, to display student artwork at
www.artsonia.com/schools/watkins1.
Contact: 378-2530

Enrichment
Bettie Weaver Elementary will hold enrichment classes beginning Jan. 24 and continuing for five weeks. A variety of after-school enrichment classes will be offered and are provided by teachers, parents and community members.
Contact: 378-2540

Books
Watkins Elementary is partnering with the Book Exchange on Midlothian Turnpike to give students who were not able to purchase books at the book fair an opportunity to purchase books. When turning in books for exchange, just ask that Watkins Elementary be on the credit slip. This will allow designated students the opportunity to go to the Book Exchange and choose a book for themselves.
Contact: Mallory Smith, 378-2530

After-school program
Bensley Elementary runs an after-school program on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through April 24. Students receive remedial instruction in reading, math and writing. Enrichment activities include Mad Science and a self-esteem group.
Contact: 743-3610

Reading challenge
Elizabeth Scott Elementary has challenged students to read at least 20 minutes a night. Students are graphing their minutes at school and at each milestone (500, 1,000, 1,500 and 2,000 minutes), they receive a special bracelet and schoolwide recognition.
Contact: 541-4660

Violin lessons
Watkins Elementary is offering a beginning violin class for fourth- and fifth-graders at 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through Feb. 16.
Contact: 378-2530

Bravo! Awards
The Chesterfield Education Foundation is seeking graduates of Chesterfield County Public Schools who are making a difference. Nomination forms are available at high schools and online at www.cpefound.org. Nominations are due to the foundation by 5 p.m. Feb. 13.
Contact: 379-1551

Interact Club
Clover Hill High’s Interact Club is helping the community in a variety of ways: picking up trash, volunteering at the Midlothian Food Festival, donating more than 700 pounds of food to the Central Virginia Food Bank and sponsoring a Chesterfield family through the Christmas Mother.
Contact: Rebekah Amato, 639-4940, ext. 6315

Community service
Monacan High students are making a difference in the community through various clubs. They help build ramps for those in need, hold canned food drives, collect coats, sort food for the Christmas Mother, collect jeans for the homeless and work with ESPN and the Salvation Army to collect sporting goods for children ages 10-17.
Contact: 378-2480

Savings bank
Watkins Elementary students have the opportunity to establish a savings account, make deposits and learn about the banking process, supported by Essex Bank. A bank representative will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings to assist students.
Contact: 378-2530

Reading buddies
First-graders at Chalkley Elementary get together with their reading buddies at 1 p.m. on Fridays.
Contact: 674-1300

Reading
Swift Creek Middle participates in the Accelerated Reader Program. Each book in the library has an Accelerated Reader test that enables students to choose their favorite genre, authors and titles, then check their reading skills after they read.
Contact: 739-6315

Student recognition
Alberta Smith Elementary will recognize students for demonstrating the core values during a 7:45 a.m. breakfast on the first Thursday of each month.
Contact: Elizabeth Stefanko, 739-6295

Manners
At Chalkley Elementary, small groups of fifth-graders will meet weekly for Manners on the Move.
Contact: 674-1300

Family reading nights
Harrowgate Elementary’s library will be open 6-8 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month for families to spend quality time together, share interests, discuss books and check out books.
Contact: Susan Bochman, 520-6015

Chess
The Watkins Elementary Chess Club will meet 8:15-9:10 a.m. the first Friday morning of each month in the cafeteria.
Contact: Becky Rose, 594-3519

Fitness
Swift Creek Elementary’s Jog/Walk Club will meet at 8:40 a.m. Tuesdays on the school track.
Contact: 739-6305

Student of the Month
Spring Run Elementary fifth-graders will be recognized each month with the Student of the Month program.
Contact: 639-6352

Peaceful School Bus
Woolridge Elementary is implementing the Peaceful School Bus program, designed to create a climate of respect and cooperation on the bus. The program aims to build strong, positive relationships among students and bus drivers.
Contact: Nancy Drum, 739-6330

Make A Change
The Make A Change Club at Swift Creek Middle works to eliminate bullying and promote positive social behaviors among students. The MAC Club will work throughout the year to make a difference.
Contact: 739-6315

Fuel Up to Play 60
Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school health and fitness program sponsored by the NFL and the National Dairy Council. The James Farrior Foundation also supports Chesterfield schools involved with Fuel Up to Play 60. This year, six elementary schools in Chesterfield County — Hopkins, Jacobs Road, Davis, Crestwood, Matoaca and Spring Run — are piloting something new for this national program: collecting student data to see how Fuel Up to Play 60 improves health and fitness throughout the school year.
Contact: 748-1405

Exercise
As part of the Fuel Up to Play 60, Spring Run Elementary will have a 20-minute morning exercise or activity each Monday and Friday 7:50-8:10 a.m.
Contact: 639-6352

Business and Community Resource Bank
The Business and Community Resource Bank offers an easy way to make a difference in schools by connecting people willing to share their knowledge with teachers who need classroom speakers or volunteers. Whether a community member would like to speak about his area of expertise, participate in a career day or mentor a student, the resource bank can make the connection with a school. To participate, fill out the resource bank survey at mychesterfieldschools.com.
Contact: 748-1405

Mileage Club
Greenfield Elementary’s Mileage Club will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Contact: Jennie Raugh, 560-2720

Mentors
Hening Elementary’s Shooting Stars mentoring program is entering its fourth year. The program matches students with staff mentors. Shooting Stars receives support from the Virginia Mentoring Partnership Organization through VCU.
Contact: Kitten Gilmore, 743-3655

Lunch wishes
At Hening Elementary, the Lunch Lady Program helps students who cannot pay for lunch. It is funded by contributions from the PTA, parents, staff members and community. Last year, more than 2,100 lunches were covered.
Contact: 743-3655

Book group
Providence Middle teachers are setting a great example for students: They are increasing their vocabulary by participating in Teachers R Reading book group.
Contact: 674-1355

Volunteers
Volunteer readers from Enterprise Holdings read to second- and third-grade students at Hening Elementary on most Wednesdays.
Contact: Bethany Dancey, 743-3655

Free supplies for school employees
From Crayons to Computers is packed with donated school and office supplies to be given away. Located in the Spring Rock Green shopping center at 7138 Midlothian Turnpike, the store is open to all Chesterfield County Public Schools employees 2:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when school is in session. Donations are welcome and are tax-deductible.
Contact: 276-7407 or 305-4279

At 5 p.m. Feb. 21 in the superintendent’s conference room of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road, the Chesterfield County School Board will meet in closed session under Section 2.2-3711(A)(2) of the Code of Virginia to discuss student discipline.

At 4 p.m. Feb. 21 in the superintendent’s conference room of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road, the Chesterfield County School Board will meet in closed session under Section 2.2-3711(A)(2) of the Code of Virginia to discuss student discipline.

The Liaison Committee, which includes members of the Chesterfield County School Board and members of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors, will meet at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 23 in Room 502 of the Lane B. Ramsey Administration Building, 9901 Lori Road.

Members of the Chesterfield County School Board may attend a Black History Month business breakfast 8-10 a.m. Feb. 24 at the Holiday Inn Koger Conference Center, 1021 Koger Center Blvd.

Members of the Chesterfield County School Board may attend a Black History Month program 9:30-11 a.m. Feb. 27 in the auditorium of Manchester Middle School, 7401 Hull Street Road. U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Gwen Bingham will speak at the event hosted by the school’s Junior Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps.

The Chesterfield County School Board will conduct a business meeting at 7 p.m. Feb. 28 in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road. Also on Feb. 28, the School Board will meet for a work session on audits, Head Start and the 2012-13 calendar at 4:30 p.m. in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road, then will have dinner at 6 p.m.

Members of the Chesterfield County School Board may meet with faith leaders at 8 a.m. Feb. 29 in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.

Members of the Chesterfield County School Board may attend a leadership breakfast at 7:30 a.m. March 13 in the Rosenbaum Room at the University of Richmond’s Jepson Alumni Center, 101 College Road.

Members of the Chesterfield County School Board may attend a business and community partnership breakfast 7:30-9 a.m. March 30 at the Holiday Inn Koger Conference Center, 1021 Koger Center Blvd.

Swann’s sessions provide nuts-and-bolts information to help students at all levels achieve their highest possible scores in math and reading. Students will leave with a better understanding of the SAT, specific strategies to boost scores and a booklet of practice materials.

Swann’s first seminar will be 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Feb. 25 in the Midlothian High auditorium, 401 Charter Colony Parkway. He will repeat his presentation 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. April 28 in the Monacan High auditorium, 11501 Smoketree Drive. Chesterfield County students may attend either presentation. There is no fee, but students who want to attend must register online at mychesterfieldschools.com by clicking “John Swann SAT Presentation” on the right side of the screen.

“This is a unique opportunity for students,” said Bryan Carr, the school system’s instructional specialist for school counseling. “Reviews on John’s work with students are overwhelmingly positive.”

For more information, call 594-1743 or 279-7319.

Reading
Bettie Weaver Elementary will hold a schoolwide reading of E.B. White’s “Trumpet of the Swans.” Parents, students and teachers will collectively read the book and engage in related activities.
Contact: 378-2540

Feb. 1-29

School Board Appreciation Month
Governor Bob McDonnell has proclaimed February as School Board Appreciation Month to help build awareness of the crucial role that school board members play in communities and schools.
Contact: Gina Patterson, (434) 295-8722

Feb. 3-9

Book fair
Evergreen Elementary will hold a book fair during school hours. On Feb. 9, there will be a dinner and the book fair will be open in the evening.
Contact: 378-2400

Feb. 6

Induction
The National Elementary Honor Society at Hopkins Elementary will induct new members at 6:30 p.m. Javaid Siddiqi, Virginia’s deputy secretary of education, will speak.
Contact: Robin White, 743-3665

GED registration
Registration for GED classes for adults will take place 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Chesterfield Technical Center.
Contact: 768-6140

Math
Representatives from the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame will work with Davis Elementary third-grade students in math.
Contact: 674-1310

Chess
Hening Elementary’s Chess Club will meet 3:45-4:45 p.m.
Contact: Susan Sennewald, 743-3655

Assembly
Salem Church Middle will hold an awards assembly for sixth-grade students at 7 p.m.
Contact: 768-6225

Feb. 6-10

National School Counseling Week
National School Counseling Week, sponsored by the American School Counselor Association, focuses attention on the contributions of school counselors.
Contact: 748-1405

Jump Rope for Heart
Alberta Smith Elementary will participate in Jump Rope for Heart, with students jumping rope during P.E. classes to raise money for the American Heart Association.
Contact: Mary Beth Lowery or Elly Dozier, 739-6295

Feb. 7

Meeting
The School Board will hold a budget work session at 5:30 p.m. in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Photos
Spring group pictures will be taken at Davis Elementary.
Contact: 674-1310

Performance
Musicians from the Richmond Symphony will perform 9:30-10:15 a.m. for Hening Elementary fourth- and fifth-graders.
Contact: AnnJannete Lacatell, 743-3655

Parenting workshop
A parenting workshop at 7 p.m. in the Bailey Bridge Middle auditorium will focus on supporting your child’s learning.
Contact: 739-6200

Assembly
Salem Church Middle will hold an awards assembly for seventh-grade students at 7 p.m.
Contact: 768-6225

Musical
Alberta Smith Elementary first-grade students will present a musical “Silly Love Songs” at 9:15 a.m. in the cafeteria.
Contact: 739-6295

Feb. 8

Meeting
The Special Education Advisory Committee will meet 4:30-6 p.m. at the Parent-Teacher Resource Center in the Fulghum Center, 4003 Cogbill Road.
Contact: 594-1732

Performance
In celebration of the Chinese New Year, Watkins Elementary students in grades 3-5 and their families are invited to enjoy tai chi performing arts in the gymnasium 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Contact: 378-2530

Young Authors
Midlothian Middle’s Guild of Young Authors will meet with children’s author Gigi Amateau noon-1:15 p.m. in the library.
Contact: Christy Martin, 378-2460

Recognition ceremony
Hening Elementary students will be honored as good citizens in a ceremony 2:30-3:15 p.m.
Contact: Kitten Gilmore, 743-3655

Concert
Curtis Elementary fifth-grade students attending Carver Middle in the fall will attend a concert at Carver Middle 9:45-10:15 a.m.
Contact: 768-6175

Feb. 9

Dance celebration
Watkins Elementary will celebrate the Chinese New Year during a festival 6:30-8 p.m. A Chinese classical dance will be performed, and second-grade students will perform.
Contact: 378-2530

Bank program
Franklin Federal Savings Bank will work with Davis Elementary second-grade students all day.
Contact: 674-1310

Dinner
Hening Elementary families will eat 5-8 p.m. at McDonald’s on Hopkins Road.
Contact: Celeste Roberts, 743-3655

Assembly
Salem Church Middle will hold an awards assembly for eighth-grade students at 7 p.m.
Contact: 768-6225

Visit
A Revolutionary War soldier will visit Woolridge Elementary fourth-graders 2:30-3:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. He will display military and personal equipment and teach the students about medicine, diet, music and firearms.
Contact: 739-6330

Visit
Jamestown representatives will visit Reams Road Elementary fourth-grade students.
Contact: 674-1370

Dinner
Reams Road Elementary families will eat at Chick-fil-A.
Contact: 674-1370

Feb. 9-11

Performance
Midlothian High’s Theater Department will present “The Farnsworth Invention” at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $5 on Feb. 9 and $10 on Feb. 10-11.
Contact: 378-2440

Feb. 10

Talent show
Matoaca Middle will hold a talent show.
Contact: 590-3110

Flag program
Davis Elementary will hold a flag program for first-grade students.
Contact: 674-1310

Shopping
Woolridge Elementary fifth-grade students will buy and sell homemade goods in the Valentine Store in the cafeteria using scrip they have earned.
Contact: 739-6330

Candy
This is the last day to purchase a Valentine candygram at Alberta Smith Elementary, which will be delivered on Feb. 13. Proceeds benefit the Relay for Life team.
Contact: 739-6295

Feb. 13

Meeting
The County Council of PTAs/PTSAs will meet at 7 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Blood drive
Alberta Smith Elementary and Crenshaw Elementary will sponsor a community blood drive 3:30-7 p.m. in the Crenshaw Elementary gymnasium. Call 739-6299 to schedule an appointment.
Contact: 739-6295

Feb. 13-17

Event
Davis Elementary students will participate in Jump Rope for Heart.
Contact: 674-1310

Feb. 14

Meeting
The Chesterfield County School Board will meet at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road. The meeting will include a public hearing on the proposed FY 2013 budget.
Contact: 748-1405

Annual event
Spring Run Elementary will host its annual Jump/Hoops for Heart and Resource Night at 6:30 p.m. Jump/Hoops for Heart event is a family program that highlights making healthy heart choices and the importance of daily physical activity and healthy eating. During Resource Night, students and parents can visit resource areas, including art and music, and enjoy activities related to each area.
Contact: 639-6352

Treats
Davis Elementary students will get valentine treats.
Contact: 674-1310

Giving
Salem Church Middle students who donate to the American Heart Association can wear a hat to school.
Contact: 768-6225

Field trip
Fourth-grade classes from Hening Elementary will visit the Virginia Historical Society to view the “Celebrate Virginia” exhibit.
Contact: Bethany Dancey, 743-3655

Feb. 15

100th day of school
Davis Elementary will celebrate 100 days of school with events throughout the school, including everyone wearing 100 of something, the chorus singing the “100th Day Song” at the 100th minute of the day and student bringing in food bank donations.
Contact: 674-1310

Battle of the Books
Matoaca Middle and Elizabeth Davis Middle students will compete in a Battle of the Books.
Contact: 590-3130

Program
Evergreen Elementary first-grade students will present a flag program at 2 p.m.
Contact: 378-2400

What’s Next Wednesday
Building on Chesterfield Goes to College Week, the school system is promoting college and career readiness with What’s Next Wednesdays. The theme for students on these days is to identify what’s next as they plan for postsecondary education and future career.
Contact: 748-1405

Induction
At 7 p.m. in the main auditorium, new students will be inducted into the National Art Honor Society at the Specialty Center for the Visual and Performing Arts at Thomas Dale High.
Contact: 768-6245

Skate night
Reams Road Elementary families will skate at Skate Away.
Contact: 674-1370

Feb. 15-16

Visit
Chef Ann Butler from Edible Education will visit Evergreen Elementary.
Contact: 378-2400

Feb. 15-17 and Feb. 21

Field trip
Swift Creek Elementary fifth-grade students will visit the MathScience Innovation Center to examine how an oil spill in the Chesapeake Bay could impact their community.
Contact: Amelia Phillips or Amy Zombron, 739-6305

Feb. 16

Shadowing teachers
Six Lloyd C. Bird High students will shadow teachers at Beulah Elementary.
Contact: 743-3620

Assembly
Former NFL player Mark Parson of the New Orleans Saints will visit Chalkley Elementary to conduct an assembly focused on academic success. He will share a NFL workout and read from a book he is publishing about his son. Mark Parson attended elementary school in Chesterfield County and played football for the Chalkley Athletic Association.
Contact: 674-1300

Concert
A pyramid concert at Bird High will include students from Salem Church Middle and Bird High.
Contact: 768-6225

Field trip
Reams Road Elementary prekindergarten and early childhood special education students will visit the Richmond SPCA to learn how to care for a pet.
Contact: 674-1370

Math night
Alberta Smith Elementary will hold math night at Food Lion in Deer Run Shopping Center 6-8 p.m.
Contact: 739-6295

Feb. 17

Living museum
Manchester Middle will hold its second annual African-American Living Wax Museum 6-6:45 p.m. Sixth-grade science students will portray African-American scientists and inventors.
Contact: Jacqueline Marshall, 674-1385

Dance
Chalkley Elementary’s PTA will sponsor a mother-and-son dance 6-8 p.m. in the gymnasium.
Contact: 674-1300

Music
Providence Middle students will perform for Reams Road Elementary and explain the different music options offered.
Contact: 674-1370

Field trip
Beulah Elementary prekindergarten classes will visit the Children’s Museum of Richmond 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Contact: 743-3620

Dental lessons
Beulah Elementary first-grade students will have dental lessons 10 a.m.-3:20 p.m.
Contact: 743-3620

Feb. 18

Awards ceremony
Matoaca High art students will be honored at the second annual Scholastic Awards ceremony for their winning artwork, which will be on exhibit at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts through March 18. Their artwork is being judged against work by students from across the country, with national winners announced March 15.
Contact: 590-3108

Recognition
Alberta Smith Elementary students with all A’s or E’s on their report cards will be recognized during the University of Richmond basketball game.
Contact: 739-6295

Feb. 20

Closed
The schools and offices of Chesterfield County Public Schools will be closed.
Contact: 748-1405

Feb. 20-24

Spirit
Bailey Bridge Middle SCA will sponsor Spirit Week with a different theme each day.
Contact: 739-6200

Feb. 21

Living history
Hening Elementary fifth-grade students will present a living wax museum for the PTO 7-8 p.m.
Contact: Nancy Mulvihill, 743-3655

Presentation
Beulah Elementary first-grade students will have a flag presentation.
Contact: 743-3620

Feb. 21, Feb. 23, Feb. 28 and March 1

Art class
Monacan High Art Department will host a free art class 6-8 p.m. for parents, grandparents and community members. Called “Fishsticks,” the class is limited to 30 participants.
Contact: Melinda Carson, 378-2480

Feb. 22

Presentation
Southern Knights Cruisers will present flags to Hening Elementary first-graders 2:30-3:15 p.m.
Contact: Mercy Mize, 743-3655

Flags
A local veterans group will present a flag program to Chalkley Elementary first-grade students, teaching them about the history and how to show respect for the flag.
Contact: 674-1300

Feb. 23

Faculty vs. students
Bailey Bridge Middle faculty members will compete against students in a basketball game in the Manchester High main gymnasium at 7 p.m.
Contact: 739-6200

Math
Virginia Sports Hall of Fame will work with Davis Elementary kindergarten students in math.
Contact: 674-1310

Assembly
Providence Middle will hold an assembly with Davis Elementary fifth-grade students.
Contact: 674-1310

Concert
The Specialty Center for the Visual and Performing Arts at Thomas Dale High will hold a free pre-festival assessment concert at 7 p.m.
Contact: 768-6245

Competition
Robious Middle will hold a Battle of the Books competition.
Contact: 378-2510

Concert
Tomahawk Creek Middle’s intermediate and advanced band will hold a pre-festival concert 7-8 p.m.
Contact: Andy Brock, 378-7120

Feb. 24

Workshop
Beulah Elementary Title I will hold a kindergarten workshop 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the cafeteria.
Contact: 743-3620

Feb. 26

Open house
Students, parents and members of the public are invited to explore the 29 programs at the Chesterfield Technical Center during an open house 1-3 p.m. On hand to answer questions and demonstrate career opportunities will be teachers, administrators, students and business partners of the school.
Contact: Larry Diehl, 768-6160, ext. 1015

Field trip
Beulah Elementary fourth-grade students will visit Pamplin Historical Park 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Contact: 743-3620

Feb. 27

Flag program
American Legion members will visit Reams Road Elementary to teach first-graders about the flag.
Contact: 674-1370

Speaker
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Gwen Bingham will speak at a 9:30-11 a.m. Black History Month program hosted by Manchester Middle’s Junior Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps.
Contact: 674-1385

Feb. 27-March 2

Reading
Davis Elementary will celebrate Dr. Seuss and Read Across America.
Contact: 674-1310

Ongoing

Super Teacher Award
The Virginia Lottery is seeking nominations for the Super Teacher Award, which is designed to honor outstanding Virginia public school teachers for their dedication and commitment. Nomination forms, which are due by Feb. 14, can be found online at www.valottery.com/promotion/teacher/.
Contact: 594-1753

Partnership
The Chesterfield Federal Credit Union will donate to the Chesterfield Public Education Foundation a portion of purchases made using Visa Emerald or Visa debit cards in February and March.
Contact: 748-1405

Chinese New Year
Watkins Elementary students will celebrate Chinese New Year, the start of the year of the dragon. Art by more than 100 students is on display at the Barnes & Noble at Chesterfield Towne Center through Feb. 15.
Contact: Jenny Youman, 378-2530

What’s Next Wednesdays
As part of What’s Next Wednesdays, fourth-grade students at Spring Run Elementary have written about their goals, education and jobs in the future. This spring, they will revise and edit their papers, type them and send them to the printer to publish their writings into a book titled “In Twenty Years” that is published for students every year.
Contact: 639-6352

Nails
Students at the Chesterfield Technical Center offer manicures, pedicures and foot massages 11 a.m.-1 p.m. weekdays, staying open until 3 p.m. on Tuesdays.
Contact: 768-6160, ext. 1046

Enrichment
Gordon Elementary will hold enrichment classes every Thursday through Feb. 23.
Contact: 378-2410

R.E.B. Awards
Nominations are being accepted for the R.E.B. Awards for Teaching Excellence, which are designed to identify, recognize and support teaching excellence in Richmond area public school systems. Professional development grants ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 each will be awarded to teachers who have distinguished themselves by their inspiring classroom performance. Nomination forms are available online at www.tcfrichmond.org and in the school offices. Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. Feb. 23.
Contact: www.tcfrichmond.org

Art
The art teachers at Watkins Elementary have teamed with Artsonia, the world’s largest online kid’s art museum, to display student artwork at
www.artsonia.com/schools/watkins1.
Contact: 378-2530

Enrichment
Bettie Weaver Elementary will hold enrichment classes beginning Jan. 24 and continuing for five weeks. A variety of after-school enrichment classes will be offered and are provided by teachers, parents and community members.
Contact: 378-2540

Books
Watkins Elementary is partnering with the Book Exchange on Midlothian Turnpike to give students who were not able to purchase books at the book fair an opportunity to purchase books. When turning in books for exchange, just ask that Watkins Elementary be on the credit slip. This will allow designated students the opportunity to go to the Book Exchange and choose a book for themselves.
Contact: Mallory Smith, 378-2530

After-school program
Bensley Elementary runs an after-school program on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through April 24. Students receive remedial instruction in reading, math and writing. Enrichment activities include Mad Science and a self-esteem group.
Contact: 743-3610

Reading challenge
Elizabeth Scott Elementary has challenged students to read at least 20 minutes a night. Students are graphing their minutes at school and at each milestone (500, 1,000, 1,500 and 2,000 minutes), they receive a special bracelet and schoolwide recognition.
Contact: 541-4660

Violin lessons
Watkins Elementary is offering a beginning violin class for fourth- and fifth-graders at 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through Feb. 16.
Contact: 378-2530

Bravo! Awards
The Chesterfield Education Foundation is seeking graduates of Chesterfield County Public Schools who are making a difference. Nomination forms are available at high schools and online at www.cpefound.org. Nominations are due to the foundation by 5 p.m. Feb. 13.
Contact: 379-1551

Interact Club
Clover Hill High’s Interact Club is helping the community in a variety of ways: picking up trash, volunteering at the Midlothian Food Festival, donating more than 700 pounds of food to the Central Virginia Food Bank and sponsoring a Chesterfield family through the Christmas Mother.
Contact: Rebekah Amato, 639-4940, ext. 6315

Community service
Monacan High students are making a difference in the community through various clubs. They help build ramps for those in need, hold canned food drives, collect coats, sort food for the Christmas Mother, collect jeans for the homeless and work with ESPN and the Salvation Army to collect sporting goods for children ages 10-17.
Contact: 378-2480

Savings bank
Watkins Elementary students have the opportunity to establish a savings account, make deposits and learn about the banking process, supported by Essex Bank. A bank representative will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings to assist students.
Contact: 378-2530

Reading buddies
First-graders at Chalkley Elementary get together with their reading buddies at 1 p.m. on Fridays.
Contact: 674-1300

Reading
Swift Creek Middle participates in the Accelerated Reader Program. Each book in the library has an Accelerated Reader test that enables students to choose their favorite genre, authors and titles, then check their reading skills after they read.
Contact: 739-6315

Student recognition
Alberta Smith Elementary will recognize students for demonstrating the core values during a 7:45 a.m. breakfast on the first Thursday of each month.
Contact: Elizabeth Stefanko, 739-6295

Manners
At Chalkley Elementary, small groups of fifth-graders will meet weekly for Manners on the Move.
Contact: 674-1300

Family reading nights
Harrowgate Elementary’s library will be open 6-8 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month for families to spend quality time together, share interests, discuss books and check out books.
Contact: Susan Bochman, 520-6015

Chess
The Watkins Elementary Chess Club will meet 8:15-9:10 a.m. the first Friday morning of each month in the cafeteria.
Contact: Becky Rose, 594-3519

Fitness
Swift Creek Elementary’s Jog/Walk Club will meet at 8:40 a.m. Tuesdays on the school track.
Contact: 739-6305

Student of the Month
Spring Run Elementary fifth-graders will be recognized each month with the Student of the Month program.
Contact: 639-6352

Peaceful School Bus
Woolridge Elementary is implementing the Peaceful School Bus program, designed to create a climate of respect and cooperation on the bus. The program aims to build strong, positive relationships among students and bus drivers.
Contact: Nancy Drum, 739-6330

Make A Change
The Make A Change Club at Swift Creek Middle works to eliminate bullying and promote positive social behaviors among students. The MAC Club will work throughout the year to make a difference.
Contact: 739-6315

Fuel Up to Play 60
Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school health and fitness program sponsored by the NFL and the National Dairy Council. The James Farrior Foundation also supports Chesterfield schools involved with Fuel Up to Play 60. This year, six elementary schools in Chesterfield County — Hopkins, Jacobs Road, Davis, Crestwood, Matoaca and Spring Run — are piloting something new for this national program: collecting student data to see how Fuel Up to Play 60 improves health and fitness throughout the school year.
Contact: 748-1405

Exercise
As part of the Fuel Up to Play 60, Spring Run Elementary will have a 20-minute morning exercise or activity each Monday and Friday 7:50-8:10 a.m.
Contact: 639-6352

Business and Community Resource Bank
The Business and Community Resource Bank offers an easy way to make a difference in schools by connecting people willing to share their knowledge with teachers who need classroom speakers or volunteers. Whether a community member would like to speak about his area of expertise, participate in a career day or mentor a student, the resource bank can make the connection with a school. To participate, fill out the resource bank survey at mychesterfieldschools.com.
Contact: 748-1405

Mileage Club
Greenfield Elementary’s Mileage Club will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Contact: Jennie Raugh, 560-2720

Mentors
Hening Elementary’s Shooting Stars mentoring program is entering its fourth year. The program matches students with staff mentors. Shooting Stars receives support from the Virginia Mentoring Partnership Organization through VCU.
Contact: Kitten Gilmore, 743-3655

Lunch wishes
At Hening Elementary, the Lunch Lady Program helps students who cannot pay for lunch. It is funded by contributions from the PTA, parents, staff members and community. Last year, more than 2,100 lunches were covered.
Contact: 743-3655

Book group
Providence Middle teachers are setting a great example for students: They are increasing their vocabulary by participating in Teachers R Reading book group.
Contact: 674-1355

Volunteers
Volunteer readers from Enterprise Holdings read to second- and third-grade students at Hening Elementary on most Wednesdays.
Contact: Bethany Dancey, 743-3655

Free supplies for school employees
From Crayons to Computers is packed with donated school and office supplies to be given away. Located in the Spring Rock Green shopping center at 7138 Midlothian Turnpike, the store is open to all Chesterfield County Public Schools employees 2:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when school is in session. Donations are welcome and are tax-deductible.
Contact: 276-7407 or 305-4279

At the Chesterfield Technical Center, students can enroll in a technical course and still maintain a college-preparatory schedule at their high school. Students in some Tech Center courses earn industry certification or college credit.

Students in grades 9-11 may apply for admission to the Technical Center and are selected based on grades, attendance, behavior, counselor’s evaluation and other factors. March 7 is the deadline to apply; applications are available from high school counselors or online at schools.chesterfield.k12.va.us/CTC/. Acceptance letters for the 2012-13 school year will be mailed in early April. For more information, call 768-6160.

Located at 10101 Courthouse Road, the Technical Center offers instruction in these areas:

• Registration opens Feb. 6 and closes May 21 for Health and P.E. 9 and 10.
• Registration opens March 5 and closes June 15 for all other online classes: English 9, 10, 11 and 12; World History I and II; Virginia and U.S. History; Virginia and U.S. Government; Algebra I and II; Geometry; Earth/Space Science I and II; Biology; Chemistry; Physics; Psychology; Sociology; and Economics and Personal Finance.

Online classes are open to all high school students, no matter where they live. Students must get approval from their school counselor and principal to enroll. Summer tuition costs $250 for residents of Chesterfield County and $500 for all other students.

“Online classes offer a flexible way for students to get ahead, clear space in their schedule in the coming school year or make up a class that did not go well for them this year,” said Manager of Online Instruction David Rankin. “Each summer, about 800 students take an online class with Chesterfield County Public Schools.”

Additional summer classes may be scheduled or class offerings may change
based on enrollment. For updated information, visit ccpsonline.ccpsnet.net, email ccpsonline@ccpsnet.net or call (804) 279-7394.

In addition to online classes, Chesterfield County Public Schools offers school-based summer classes. Registration will open in April or May for those classes.

(Wondering how students take P.E. online? They participate in 70 hours of physical activity, which is monitored by a coach, fitness instructor or other adult.)

Michael Benos, an eighth-grader at Robious Middle, won the countywide spelling bee on Jan. 24 by correctly spelling “garland.” The son of Pam and Bill Benos, Michael will represent Chesterfield County Public Schools in the regional spelling bee at 1 p.m. March 10 at the Library of Virginia.
The runner-up in the countywide spelling bee was Seth Hoisington, a sixth-grader at Bailey Bridge Middle whose parents are Karen and Scott Hoisington.

Five schools are recognized by Virginia Naturally

Five Chesterfield County schools have been named 2011 Virginia Naturally Schools for their environmental conservation and stewardship:

• Bettie Weaver Elementary for the fourth year
• Clover Hill High for the fourth year
• James River High for the third year
• Robious Elementary for the second year
• Robious Middle for the first year

Across the state, only 48 schools were recognized in this program overseen by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.

• Student holiday
  Students are not in school. This is a teacher workday.
  Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 31

• Coffee
  Reams Elementary will hold a parent coffee at 8 a.m. to discuss the world language program.
  Contact: 674-1370
• Performance
  A section of the Richmond Symphony will perform for Matoaca Elementary students at 9:30 a.m.
  Contact: Leah Kovack, 590-3100
• Scheduling
  At 7 p.m. in the auditorium, parents of current middle school students who will attend Matoaca High in the fall are invited to learn about scheduling options and courses.
  Contact: 590-3108
• Performance
  The Richmond Symphony will perform for fourth- and fifth-grade students at Spring Run Elementary at 9 a.m. in the cafeteria.
  Contact: 639-6352
• Pep rally
  Davis Elementary will hold a core values pep rally at 2:45 p.m.
  Contact: 674-1310
• Party
  Spring Run Elementary will reward students on bus route 4 with a popsicle party at 2:15 p.m. for following Peaceful School Bus guidelines.
  Contact: 639-6352
• Field trip
  Providence Middle eighth-grade students will see “Lord of the Flies” at 9:15 a.m. at the Henley Street Theatre.
  Contact: Catherine Saydlowski, 674-1355

Jan. 31-Feb. 29

• Reading
  Bettie Weaver Elementary will hold a schoolwide reading of E.B. White’s “Trumpet of the Swans.” Parents, students and teachers will collectively read the book and engage in related activities.
  Contact: 378-2540

Feb. 1-29

• School Board Appreciation Month
  Governor Bob McDonnell has proclaimed February as School Board Appreciation Month to help build awareness of the crucial role that school board members play in communities and schools.
  Contact: Gina Patterson, (434) 295-8722

Feb. 1

• Reading
  Read Across America begins at Evergreen Elementary.
  Contact: 378-2400
• Pizza night
  Bensley Elementary families will eat 5-8 p.m. at Cici’s.
  Contact: 743-3610

Feb. 1-3

• Pennies for Patients
  The Bailey Bridge Middle SCA will collect spare change to support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
  Contact: 739-6200

Feb. 1-3 and Feb. 14

Field trip
Fourth-grade classes from Hening Elementary will visit the Virginia Historical Society to view the “Celebrate Virginia” exhibit.
Contact: Bethany Dancey, 743-3655

Feb. 2

• Writing fun
  Providence Elementary will present an evening of fun writing activities for students and families 6:30-8 p.m. Ice cream will be served.
  Contact: 674-1345
• Meeting
  The Gifted Education Advisory Committee will meet at 6:30 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
  Contact: 594-1767
• Assembly
  Providence Middle will have its second Pillars of Providence recognition assembly 7:45-8:30 a.m. to celebrate achievement, one of the four Pillars of Providence. The others are respect, mind-set and self-control.
  Contact: 674-1355
• Field trip
  Hening Elementary kindergarten classes will visit the Children’s Museum of Richmond.
  Contact: Julie Reedy, 743-3655

Feb. 2-3

• Talent show
  Bailey Bridge Middle will hold a talent show at 7 p.m. in the auditorium.
  Contact: 739-6200

Feb. 3

• Author visit
  Author Sue Corbett will visit Robious Middle sixth-grade students and Battle of the Books students.
  Contact: 378-2510
• School store
  Spring Run Elementary fifth-grade students have been earning Husky Bucks to purchase homemade items created by the students. Items will be sold in the cafeteria at 1 p.m.
  Contact: 639-6352
• Visit
  Chalkley Elementary fifth-grade students will visit Manchester Middle.
  Contact: 674-1300
• Visit
  The Flying Squirrels will visit Davis Elementary to encourage students to read.
  Contact: 674-1310
• Visit
  Hening Elementary fifth-grade students will visit Manchester Middle.
  Contact: Nancy Mulvihill, 743-3655
• Statistics party
  Bailey Bridge Middle seventh-grade math students will enjoy a fantasy football tailgate party as the culmination of their statistics unit.
  Contact: 739-6200
• Field trip
  Chalkley Elementary prekindergarten classes will visit the teddy bear clinic at St. Francis Hospital.
  Contact: 674-1300

Feb. 3-9

• Book fair
  Evergreen Elementary will hold a book fair during school hours. On Feb. 9, there will be a dinner and the book fair will be open in the evening.
  Contact: 378-2400

Feb. 6

• Induction
  The National Elementary Honor Society at Hopkins Elementary will induct new members at 6:30 p.m. Javaid Siddiqi, Virginia’s deputy secretary of education, will speak.
  Contact: Robin White, 743-3665
• GED registration
  Registration for GED classes for adults will take place 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Chesterfield Technical Center.
  Contact: 768-6140
• Math
  Representatives from the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame will work with Davis Elementary third-grade students in math.
  Contact: 674-1310
• Chess
  Hening Elementary’s Chess Club will meet 3:45-4:45 p.m.
  Contact: Susan Sennewald, 743-3655
• Assembly
  Salem Church Middle will hold an awards assembly for sixth-grade students at 7 p.m.
  Contact: 768-6225

Feb. 6-10

• National School Counseling Week
  National School Counseling Week, sponsored by the American School Counselor Association, focuses attention on the contributions of school counselors.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Jump Rope for Heart
  Alberta Smith Elementary will participate in Jump Rope for Heart, with students jumping rope during PE classes to raise money for the American Heart Association.
  Contact: Mary Beth Lowery or Elly Dozier, 739-6295

Feb. 7

• Meeting
  The School Board will hold a budget work session at 5:30 p.m. in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Photos
  Spring group pictures will be taken at Davis Elementary.
  Contact: 674-1310
• Performance
  Musicians from the Richmond Symphony will perform 9:30-10:15 a.m. for Hening Elementary fourth- and fifth-graders.
  Contact: AnnJannete Lacatell, 743-3655
• Parenting workshop
  A parenting workshop at 7 p.m. in the Bailey Bridge Middle auditorium will focus on supporting your child’s learning.
  Contact: 739-6200
• Assembly
  Salem Church Middle will hold an awards assembly for seventh-grade students at 7 p.m.
  Contact: 768-6225

Feb. 8

• Meeting
  The Special Education Advisory Committee will meet 4:30-6 p.m. at the Parent-Teacher Resource Center in the Fulghum Center, 4003 Cogbill Road.
  Contact: 594-1732
• Performance
  In celebration of the Chinese New Year, Watkins Elementary students in grades 3-5 and their families are invited to enjoy tai chi performing arts in the gymnasium 9:45-10:45 a.m.
  Contact: 378-2530
• Young Authors
  Midlothian Middle’s Guild of Young Authors will meet with children’s author Gigi Amateau noon-1:15 p.m. in the library.
  Contact: Christy Martin, 378-2460
• Recognition ceremony
  Hening Elementary students will be honored as good citizens in a ceremony 2:30-3:15 p.m.
  Contact: Kitten Gilmore, 743-3655

Feb. 9

• Dance celebration
  Watkins Elementary will celebrate the Chinese New Year during a festival 6:30-8 p.m. A Chinese classical dance will be performed, and second-grade students will perform.
  Contact: 378-2530
• Bank program
  Franklin Federal Savings Bank will work with Davis Elementary second-grade students all day.
  Contact: 674-1310
• Dinner
  Hening Elementary families will eat 5-8 p.m. at McDonald’s on Hopkins Road.
  Contact: Celeste Roberts, 743-3655
• Assembly
  Salem Church Middle will hold an awards assembly for eighth-grade students at 7 p.m.
  Contact: 768-6225

Feb. 9-11

• Performance
  Midlothian High’s Theater Department will present “The Farnsworth Invention” at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $5 on Feb. 9 and $10 on Feb. 10-11.
  Contact: 378-2440

Feb. 10

• Talent show
  Matoaca Middle will hold a talent show.
  Contact: 590-3110
• Flag program
  Davis Elementary will hold a flag program for first-grade students.
  Contact: 674-1310

Feb. 13

• Meeting
  The County Council of PTAs/PTSAs will meet at 7 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
  Contact: 748-1405

Feb. 13-17

• Event
  Davis Elementary students will participate in Jump Rope for Heart.
  Contact: 674-1310
• Event
  Davis Elementary will celebrate 100 days of school with events taking place throughout the school.
  Contact: 674-1310

Feb. 14

• Meeting
  The Chesterfield County School Board will meet at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road. The meeting will include a public hearing on the proposed FY 2013 budget.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Treats
  Davis Elementary students will get valentine treats.
  Contact: 674-1310
• Giving
  Salem Church Middle students who donate to the American Heart Association can wear a hat to school.
  Contact: 768-6225

Feb. 15

• Battle of the Books
  Matoaca Middle and Elizabeth Davis Middle students will compete in a Battle of the Books.
  Contact: 590-3130
• Program
  Evergreen Elementary first-grade students will present a flag program at 2 p.m.
  Contact: 378-2400
• What’s Next Wednesday
  Building on Chesterfield Goes to College Week, the school system is promoting college and career readiness with What’s Next Wednesdays. The theme for students on these days is to identify what’s next as they plan for postsecondary education and future career.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Induction
  At 7 p.m. in the main auditorium, new students will be inducted into the National Art Honor Society at the Specialty Center for the Visual and Performing Arts at Thomas Dale High.
  Contact: 768-6245

Feb. 15-16

• Visit
  Chef Ann Butler from Edible Education will visit Evergreen Elementary.
  Contact: 378-2400

Feb. 15-17 and Feb. 21

• Field trip
  Swift Creek Elementary fifth-grade students will visit the MathScience Innovation Center to examine how an oil spill in the Chesapeake Bay could impact their community.
  Contact: Amelia Phillips or Amy Zombron, 739-6305

Feb. 16

• Assembly
  Former NFL player Mark Parson of the New Orleans Saints will visit Chalkley Elementary to conduct an assembly focused on academic success. He will share a NFL workout and read from a book he is publishing about his son. Mark Parson attended elementary school in Chesterfield County and played football for the Chalkley Athletic Association.
  Contact: 674-1300
• Concert
  A pyramid concert at Bird High will include students from Salem Church Middle and Bird High.
  Contact: 768-6225

Feb. 17

• Living museum
  Manchester Middle will hold its second annual African-American Living Wax Museum 6-6:45 p.m. Sixth-grade science students will portray African-American scientists and inventors.
  Contact: Jacqueline Marshall, 674-1385
• Dance
  Chalkley Elementary’s PTA will sponsor a mother-and-son dance 6-8 p.m. in the gymnasium.
  Contact: 674-1300

Feb. 20

• Chess
  Hening Elementary’s Chess Club will meet 3:45-4:45 p.m.
  Contact: Susan Sennewald, 743-3655
• Closed
  The schools and offices of Chesterfield County Public Schools will be closed.
  Contact: 748-1405

Ongoing

• Chinese New Year
  Watkins Elementary students will celebrate Chinese New Year, the start of the year of the dragon. Art by more than 100 students is on display at the Barnes & Noble at Chesterfield Towne Center through Feb. 15.
  Contact: Jenny Youman, 378-2530
• What’s Next Wednesdays
  As part of What’s Next Wednesdays, fourth-grade students at Spring Run Elementary have written about their goals, education and jobs in the future. This spring, they will revise and edit their papers, type them and send them to the printer to publish their writings into a book titled “In Twenty Years” that is published for students every year.
  Contact: 639-6352
• Nails
  Students at the Chesterfield Technical Center offer manicures, pedicures and foot massages 11 a.m.-1 p.m. weekdays, staying open until 3 p.m. on Tuesdays.
  Contact: 768-6160, ext. 1046
• Enrichment
  Gordon Elementary will hold enrichment classes every Thursday through Feb. 23.
  Contact: 378-2410
• R.E.B. Awards
  Nominations are being accepted for the R.E.B. Awards for Teaching Excellence, which are designed to identify, recognize and support teaching excellence in Richmond area public school systems. Professional development grants ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 each will be awarded to teachers who have distinguished themselves by their inspiring classroom performance. Nomination forms are available online at www.tcfrichmond.org and in the school offices. Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. Feb. 23.
  Contact: www.tcfrichmond.org
• Art
  The art teachers at Watkins Elementary have teamed with Artsonia, the world’s largest online kid’s art museum, to display student artwork at
  www.artsonia.com/schools/watkins1.
  Contact: 378-2530
• Enrichment
  Bettie Weaver Elementary will hold enrichment classes beginning Jan. 24 and continuing for five weeks. A variety of after-school enrichment classes will be offered and are provided by teachers, parents and community members.
  Contact: 378-2540
• Books
  Watkins Elementary is partnering with the Book Exchange on Midlothian Turnpike to give students who were not able to purchase books at the book fair an opportunity to purchase books. When turning in books for exchange, just ask that Watkins Elementary be on the credit slip. This will allow designated students the opportunity to go to the Book Exchange and choose a book for themselves.
  Contact: Mallory Smith, 378-2530
• After-school program
  Bensley Elementary runs an after-school program on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through April 24. Students receive remedial instruction in reading, math and writing. Enrichment activities include Mad Science and a self-esteem group.
  Contact: 743-3610
• Reading challenge
  Elizabeth Scott Elementary has challenged students to read at least 20 minutes a night. Students are graphing their minutes at school and at each milestone (500, 1,000, 1,500 and 2,000 minutes), they receive a special bracelet and schoolwide recognition. The school hopes to reach 1 million minutes total in December, then will begin a new challenge in January.
  Contact: 541-4660
• Violin lessons
  Watkins Elementary is offering a beginning violin class for fourth- and fifth-graders at 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through Feb. 16.
  Contact: 378-2530
• Bravo! Awards
  The Chesterfield Education Foundation is seeking graduates of Chesterfield County Public Schools who are making a difference. Nomination forms are available at high schools and online at www.cpefound.org. Nominations are due to the foundation by 5 p.m. Feb. 13.
  Contact: 379-1551
• Interact Club
  Clover Hill High’s Interact Club is helping the community in a variety of ways: picking up trash, volunteering at the Midlothian Food Festival, donating more than 700 pounds of food to the Central Virginia Food Bank and sponsoring a Chesterfield family through the Christmas Mother.
  Contact: Rebekah Amato, 639-4940, ext. 6315
• Community service
  Monacan High students are making a difference in the community through various clubs. They help build ramps for those in need, hold canned food drives, collect coats, sort food for the Christmas Mother, collect jeans for the homeless and work with ESPN and the Salvation Army to collect sporting goods for children ages 10-17.
  Contact: 378-2480
• Savings bank
  Watkins Elementary students have the opportunity to establish a savings account, make deposits and learn about the banking process, supported by Essex Bank. A bank representative will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings to assist students.
  Contact: 378-2530
• Reading buddies
  First-graders at Chalkley Elementary get together at 1 p.m. on Fridays with their reading buddies.
  Contact: 674-1300
• Reading
  Swift Creek Middle participates in the Accelerated Reader Program. Each book in the library has an Accelerated Reader test that enables students to choose their favorite genre, authors and titles, then check their reading skills after they read.
  Contact: 739-6315
• Student recognition
  Alberta Smith Elementary will recognize students for demonstrating the core values during a 7:45 a.m. breakfast on the first Thursday of each month except January.
  Contact: Elizabeth Stefanko, 739-6295
• Manners
  At Chalkley Elementary, small groups of fifth-graders will meet weekly for Manners on the Move.
  Contact: 674-1300
• Family reading nights
  Harrowgate Elementary’s library will be open 6-8 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month for families to spend quality time together, share interests, discuss books and check out books.
  Contact: Susan Bochman, 520-6015
• Chess
  The Watkins Elementary Chess Club will meet 8:15-9:10 a.m. the first Friday morning of each month in the cafeteria.
  Contact: Becky Rose, 594-3519
• Fitness
  Swift Creek Elementary’s Jog/Walk Club will meet at 8:40 a.m. Tuesdays on the school track.
  Contact: 739-6305
• Student of the Month
  Spring Run Elementary fifth-graders will be recognized each month with the Student of the Month program.
  Contact: 639-6352
• Peaceful School Bus
  Woolridge Elementary is implementing the Peaceful School Bus program, designed to create a climate of respect and cooperation on the bus. The program aims to build strong, positive relationships among students and bus drivers.
  Contact: Nancy Drum, 739-6330
• Make A Change
  The Make A Change Club at Swift Creek Middle works to eliminate bullying and promote positive social behaviors among students. The MAC Club will work throughout the year to make a difference.
  Contact: 739-6315
• Fuel Up to Play 60
  Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school health and fitness program sponsored by the NFL and the National Dairy Council. The James Farrior Foundation also supports Chesterfield schools involved with Fuel Up to Play 60. This year, six elementary schools in Chesterfield County — Hopkins, Jacobs Road, Davis, Crestwood, Matoaca and Spring Run — are piloting something new for this national program: collecting student data to see how Fuel Up to Play 60 improves health and fitness throughout the school year.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Exercise
  As part of the Fuel Up to Play 60, Spring Run Elementary will have a 20-minute morning exercise/activity each Monday and Friday 7:50-8:10 a.m.
  Contact: 639-6352
• Business and Community Resource Bank
  The Business and Community Resource Bank offers an easy way to make a difference in schools by connecting people willing to share their knowledge with teachers who need classroom speakers or volunteers. Whether a community member would like to speak about his area of expertise, participate in a career day or mentor a student, the resource bank can make the connection with a school. To participate, fill out the resource bank survey at mychesterfieldschools.com.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Mileage Club
  Greenfield Elementary’s Mileage Club will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
  Contact: Jennie Raugh, 560-2720
• Mentors
  Hening Elementary’s Shooting Stars mentoring program is entering its fourth year. The program matches students with staff mentors. Shooting Stars receives support from the Virginia Mentoring Partnership Organization through VCU.
  Contact: Kitten Gilmore, 743-3655
• Lunch wishes
  At Hening Elementary, the Lunch Lady Program helps students who cannot pay for lunch. It is funded by contributions from the PTA, parents, staff members and community. Last year, more than 2,100 lunches were covered.
  Contact: 743-3655
• Book group
  Providence Middle teachers are setting a great example for students: They are increasing their vocabulary by participating in Teachers R Reading book group.
  Contact: 674-1355
• Volunteers
  Volunteer readers from Enterprise Holdings read to second- and third-grade students at Hening Elementary on most Wednesdays.
  Contact: Bethany Dancey, 743-3655
• Free supplies for school employees
  From Crayons to Computers is packed with donated school and office supplies to be given away. Located in the Spring Rock Green shopping center at 7138 Midlothian Turnpike, the store is open to all Chesterfield County Public Schools employees 2:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when school is in session. Donations are welcome and are tax-deductible.
  Contact: 276-7407 or 305-4279

Children who will be 4 by Sept. 30, who show an educational need and who live in the school attendance zone may apply for prekindergarten. There are no exceptions to age and residency requirements. To find out if they live in the attendance zone of a school with prekindergarten, parents may call 594-1726 or go online to the parents section of mychesterfieldschools.com, then click “find my school.”

To apply for prekindergarten, parents should take their children to whichever site is most convenient:

• 1-6 p.m. March 15 at the Fulghum Center, 4003 Cogbill Road
• 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. March 19 at the Fulghum Center, 4003 Cogbill Road
• 4-7 p.m. March 22 at Davis Elementary, 415 S. Providence Road
• 4-7 p.m. April 2 at Harrowgate Elementary, 15501 Harrowgate Road
• 4-7 p.m. April 4 at the Fulghum Center, 4003 Cogbill Road
• Anytime before April 6, parents may also apply by calling 279-7357 to make an appointment.

Only a limited number of spots are available, so applying for prekindergarten does not guarantee acceptance. Applications will be reviewed equally no matter which date they are submitted, but applications taken after April 19 will be placed on a waiting list.

So that they can complete a brief screening, children should accompany their parents when applying for prekindergarten. The child’s Social Security number is requested, and these items must be presented:

• parent’s photo ID
• child’s certified original birth certificate
• proof of income by providing either two recent pay stubs, a W-2, a tax form, TANF verification or a letter from an employer indicating period of employment and salary
• proof of residency by providing one of these documents:
  • lease for at least one year or deed of a residence or property in Chesterfield County
  • contract or lease free of contingencies to occupy a Chesterfield County residence within two months of the date of enrollment
  • resident manager’s letter on company letterhead stating that residence is a corporate residence in Chesterfield County
  • weekly receipts for temporary residence in a hotel or motel for up to 60 days (requires renewal or evidence of more permanent residency within 60 days of enrollment)

For more information, call 279-7357, 279-7352 or 594-1671.

Before the budget work session, the Chesterfield County School Board will meet in closed session at 4:15 p.m. Feb. 7 in the superintendent’s conference room of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road, under Section 2.2-3711(A)(1) of the Code of Virginia to discuss an employee matter and under Section 2.2-3711(A)(2) of the Code of Virginia to discuss a student disciplinary matter.

At 4:30 p.m. Jan. 30 in the superintendent’s conference room of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road, the Chesterfield County School Board will meet in closed session under Section 2.2-3711(A)(2) of the Code of Virginia to discuss student disciplinary matters and requests for exemption from mandatory attendance for religious purposes that require the disclosure of information contained in students’ scholastic records.

At 6:30 p.m. Jan. 30, members of the Chesterfield County School Board may attend the annual dinner of the Chesterfield Business Council, which will take place at Ruth’s Chris Steak House at 11500 W. Huguenot Road.

Ready to help you achieve your GED are 20 teachers, access to computer labs and day or night classes at eight sites throughout Chesterfield County: Ettrick Elementary, Harrowgate Elementary, Manchester Middle, Bird High, Chesterfield Technical Center, Bensley Community Center, Capital Area Workforce Center and Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church.

Registration for GED classes will take place 6:30-9:30 p.m. Feb. 6 at the Chesterfield Technical Center, 10101 Courthouse Road. Classes meet twice a week, beginning the week of Feb. 13 and continuing through the week of May 17.

To earn a GED, you will be assessed, participate in preparation classes, then take tests in reading, writing, social studies, science and mathematics.

GED tuition costs $70 for new students, which includes a book. If you have a child in Head Start, you may qualify for reduced tuition.

To learn more or if you cannot register on Feb. 6, call 768-6140 to find out how you can move forward toward your GED. Additional information is online at mychesterfieldschools.com in the Adult Continuing Education program guide.

• Visit
  The MathScience Innovation Center will visit third- and fourth-grade students at Chalkley Elementary.
  Contact: 674-1300

Jan. 23

• Visitor
  Dr. Roger Loria, a Holocaust survivor, will visit Marguerite Christian Elementary at 11 a.m. to talk with fifth-grade Center Based Gifted students. He will discuss what it was like to live in a refugee camp, then rebuild his life in Israel after the war.
  Contact: 530-5733
• Meeting
  The County Council of PTAs/PTSAs will meet at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Dinner
  Swift Creek Elementary families will eat at Johnny Rockets 4-9 p.m.
  Contact: 739-6305
• Chess
  Hening Elementary’s Chess Club will meet in the library 3:45-4:45 p.m.
  Contact: Susan Sennewald, 743-3655

Jan. 23-Feb. 15

• Chinese New Year
  Watkins Elementary students will celebrate Chinese New Year, the start of the year of the dragon. Art by more than 100 students is on display at the Barnes & Noble at Chesterfield Towne Center.\
  Contact: Jenny Youman, 378-2530

Jan. 24

• Meeting
  Superintendent Marcus Newsome will present his proposed financial plan for FY 2013 when the Chesterfield County School Board meets at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road. There will be a work session on the budget at 4:30 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Parent workshop
  Hopkins Elementary will hold its annual SOL Night for parents of students in grades 3-5. The workshop will provide opportunities for parents to interact with school staff members and learn strategies to prepare students for SOL tests.
  Contact: 743-3665
• Concert
  The Visual and Performing Arts Specialty Center will hold a jazz band concert 7 p.m. in the Thomas Dale High auditorium.
  Contact: 768-6245, ext. 6664
• Fitness
  Harrowgate Elementary will be hold Family Fitness and Health Night for students and their families 6-8 p.m. in the gymnasium. The event will introduce families to fun ways of keeping healthy and fit together by participating in many different activities, including zumba.
  Contact: Donna Pollak, 520-6015
• Performance
  Bellwood Elementary third-graders will sing and fourth-graders will play recorders at 6 p.m. during S.T.E.M. Night in the cafeteria.
  Contact: 743-3600
• Skate night
  Bailey Bridge Middle families will skate 6-8 p.m. at the rink located at 3330 Speeks Drive.
  Contact: 739-6200
• Party
  Spring Run Elementary will reward students on bus route 3 with a popsicle party at 2:15 p.m. for following Peaceful School Bus guidelines.
  Contact: 639-6352
• Coffee Chat
  Davis Elementary will hold a coffee chat 9:15-10 a.m. about increasing motivation.
  Contact: 674-1310

Jan. 24 and Jan. 26

• Field trip
  Sixth-graders from Matoaca Middle visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
  Contact: 590-3110

Jan. 25

• Early release
  Chesterfield County Public Schools will dismiss students three hours early so that teachers can participate in professional development.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Healthy event
  As part of Fuel Up to Play 60, Matoaca Elementary will hold a family night 6-7:30 p.m. Representatives from Fort Lee and the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service will provide nutrition advice, offer tips for planning healthy meals on a tight budget, set up an obstacle course and present treats from Fort Lee’s culinary school.
  Contact: Ellen Nichols, 590-3100
• Pizza night
  Grange Hall Elementary families will eat 5-8 p.m. at Cici’s Pizza on Hull Street Road.
  Contact: 739-6265
• Meeting
  The Chesterfield County School Board will hold a work session on project-based learning 8:30-10:30 a.m. in the Chesterfield Room of the Fulghum Center, 4003 Cogbill Road.
  Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 26

• Family fun
  Reams Road Elementary’s PTA will sponsor a night of games and fun for students and their families.
  Contact: 674-1370
• Open house
  The Center Based Gifted program will hold an open house on the east campus of Matoaca Middle.
  Contact: 590-3110
• Meeting
  The Liaison Committee, which includes members of the Chesterfield County School Board and members of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors, will meet at 1:30 p.m. in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Dads
  This is Dads Come to School Day at Wells Elementary. More than 60 fathers are volunteering 9:30 a.m.-2:55 p.m. in fourth- and fifth-grade classes.
  Contact: 768-6265

Jan. 26-27

• Performance
  Midlothian Middle eighth-grade drama students will present one-act plays (“The Rehearsal” and “The Audition”) during first period. At 6:30 p.m., there will be a dinner theater featuring the one-act plays.
  Contact: 378-2460

Jan. 27

• Nine weeks
  This is the end of the second nine-week grading period and end of the first semester for the school year.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Books
  Swift Creek Elementary’s PTA book club will meet 8:15-9:15 a.m. to discuss “Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher.”
  Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305
• Field trip
  Hening Elementary fifth-grade Center Based Gifted students will attend a play at the Swift Creek Mill Theater 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
  Contact: Susan Sennewald, 743-3655
• Parent coffee
  Watkins Elementary parents are invited to coffee and discussion in the cafeteria 9:30-10:30 a.m. The topic will be cyberbullying and Internet safety.
  Contact: Sarah Spencer, 378-2530
• Talent show
  Carver Middle will hold a talent show in the auditorium at 7 p.m.
  Contact: 524-3620
• Visit
  NASA Engineer Donner Grigsby will visit Bird High at 10 a.m. and will visit Clover Hill Elementary at 1:30 p.m., sponsored by the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce.
  Contact: Darcy Warren, 748-6364

Jan. 30

• Student holiday
  Students are not in school. This is a teacher workday.
  Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 31

• Coffee
  Reams Elementary will hold a coffee at 8 a.m. to discuss the world language program.
  Contact: 674-1370
• Performance
  A section of the Richmond Symphony will perform for Matoaca Elementary students at 9:30 a.m.
  Contact: Leah Kovack, 590-3100
• Scheduling
  At 7 p.m. in the auditorium, parents of current middle school students who will attend Matoaca High in the fall are invited to learn about scheduling options and courses.
  Contact: 590-3108
• Performance
  The Richmond Symphony will perform for fourth- and fifth-grade students at Spring Run Elementary at 9 a.m. in the cafeteria.
  Contact: 639-6352
• Pep rally
  Davis Elementary will hold a core values pep rally at 2:45 p.m.
  Contact: 674-1310

Jan. 31-Feb. 29

• Reading
  Bettie Weaver Elementary will hold a schoolwide reading of E.B. White’s “Trumpet of the Swans.” Parents, students and teachers will collectively read the book and engage in related activities.
  Contact: 378-2540

Feb. 1

• Reading
  Read Across America begins at Evergreen Elementary.
  Contact: 378-2400

Feb. 2

• Meeting
  The Gifted Education Advisory Committee will meet at 6:30 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
  Contact: 594-1767
• Assembly
  Providence Middle will have its second Pillars of Providence recognition assembly 7:45-8:30 a.m. to celebrate achievement, one of the four Pillars of Providence. The others are respect, mind-set and self-control.
  Contact: 674-1355

Feb. 2-4

• Talent show
  Bailey Bridge Middle will hold a talent show in the auditorium 7 p.m.
  Contact: 739-6200

Feb. 3

• Author visit
  Author Sue Corbett will visit Robious Middle sixth-grade students and Battle of the Books students.
  Contact: 378-2510
• School store
  Spring Run Elementary fifth-grade students have been earning Husky Bucks to purchase homemade items created by the students. Items will be sold in the cafeteria at 1 p.m.
  Contact: 639-6352
• Visit
  Chalkley Elementary fifth-grade students will visit Manchester Middle.
  Contact: 674-1300
• Visit
  The Flying Squirrels will visit Davis Elementary to encourage students to read.
  Contact: 674-1310

Feb. 3-9

• Book fair
  Evergreen Elementary will hold a book fair during school hours. On Feb. 9, there will be a dinner and the book fair will be open in the evening.
  Contact: 378-2400

Feb. 6

• Math
  Representatives from the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame will be work with Davis Elementary third-grade students in math.
  Contact: 674-1310

Feb. 7

• Meeting
  The School Board will hold a budget work session at 5:30 p.m. in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Photos
  Spring group pictures will be taken at Davis Elementary.
  Contact: 674-1310

Feb. 8

• Meeting
  The Special Education Advisory Committee will meet 4:30-6 p.m. at the Parent-Teacher Resource Center in the Fulghum Center, 4003 Cogbill Road.
  Contact: 594-1732
• Performance
  In celebration of the Chinese New Year, Watkins Elementary students in grades 3-5 and their families are invited to enjoy tai chi performing arts in the gymnasium 9:45-10:45 a.m.
  Contact: 378-2530
• Young Authors
  Midlothian Middle’s Guild of Young Authors will meet with children’s author Gigi Amateau noon-1:15 p.m. in the library.
  Contact: Christy Martin, 378-2460

Feb. 9

• Dance celebration
  Watkins Elementary will celebrate the Chinese New Year during a festival 6:30-8 p.m. A Chinese classical dance will be performed, and second-grade students will perform.
  Contact: 378-2530
• Bank program
  Franklin Federal Savings Bank will work with Davis Elementary second-grade students all day.
  Contact: 674-1310

Feb. 9-11

• Performance
  Midlothian High will present “The Farnsworth Invention.”
  Contact: 378-2440

Feb. 10

• Talent show
  Matoaca Middle will hold a talent show.
  Contact: 590-3110
• Flag program
  Davis Elementary will hold a flag program for first-grade students.
  Contact: 674-1310

Feb. 13

• Meeting
  The County Council of PTAs/PTSAs will meet at 7 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
  Contact: 748-1405

Feb. 13-17

• Event
  Davis Elementary students will participate in Jump Rope for Heart.
  Contact: 674-1310
• Event
  Davis Elementary will celebrate 100 days of school with events taking place throughout the school.
  Contact: 674-1310

Ongoing

• What’s Next Wednesdays
  As part of What’s Next Wednesdays, fourth-grade students at Spring Run Elementary have written about their goals, education and jobs in the future. This spring, they will revise and edit their papers, type them and send them to the printer to publish their writings into a book titled “In Twenty Years” that is published for students every year.
  Contact: 639-6352
• Nails
  Students at the Chesterfield Technical Center offer manicures, pedicures and foot massages 11 a.m.-1 p.m. weekdays, staying open until 3 p.m. on Tuesdays.
  Contact: 768-6160, ext. 1046
• Enrichment
  Gordon Elementary will hold enrichment classes every Thursday through Feb. 23.
  Contact: 378-2410
• R.E.B. Awards
  Nominations are being accepted for the R.E.B. Awards for Teaching Excellence, which are designed to identify, recognize and support teaching excellence in Richmond area public school systems. Professional development grants ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 each will be awarded to teachers who have distinguished themselves by their inspiring classroom performance. Nomination forms are available online at www.tcfrichmond.org and in the school offices. Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. Feb. 23.
  Contact: www.tcfrichmond.org
• Art
  The art teachers at Watkins Elementary have teamed with Artsonia, the world’s largest online kid’s art museum, to display student artwork at
  www.artsonia.com/schools/watkins1.
  Contact: 378-2530
• Enrichment
  Bettie Weaver Elementary will hold enrichment classes beginning Jan. 24 and continuing for five weeks. A variety of after-school enrichment classes will be offered and are provided by teachers, parents and community members.
  Contact: 378-2540
• Books
  Watkins Elementary is partnering with the Book Exchange on Midlothian Turnpike to give students who were not able to purchase books at the book fair an opportunity to purchase books. When turning in books for exchange, just ask that Watkins Elementary be on the credit slip. This will allow designated students the opportunity to go to the Book Exchange and choose a book for themselves.
  Contact: Mallory Smith, 378-2530
• After-school program
  Bensley Elementary runs an after-school program on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through April 24. Students receive remedial instruction in reading, math and writing. Enrichment activities include Mad Science and a self-esteem group.
  Contact: 743-3610
• Reading challenge
  Elizabeth Scott Elementary has challenged students to read at least 20 minutes a night. Students are graphing their minutes at school and at each milestone (500, 1,000, 1,500 and 2,000 minutes), they receive a special bracelet and schoolwide recognition. The school hopes to reach 1 million minutes total in December, then will begin a new challenge in January.
  Contact: 541-4660
• Violin lessons
  Watkins Elementary is offering a beginning violin class for fourth- and fifth-graders at 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through Feb. 16.
  Contact: 378-2530
• Bravo! Awards
  The Chesterfield Education Foundation is seeking graduates of Chesterfield County Public Schools who are making a difference. Nomination forms are available at high schools and online at www.cpefound.org. Nominations are due to the foundation by 5 p.m. Feb. 13.
  Contact: 379-1551
• Interact Club
  Clover Hill High’s Interact Club is helping the community in a variety of ways: picking up trash, volunteering at the Midlothian Food Festival, donating more than 700 pounds of food to the Central Virginia Food Bank and sponsoring a Chesterfield family through the Christmas Mother.
  Contact: Rebekah Amato, 639-4940, ext. 6315
• Community service
  Monacan High students are making a difference in the community through various clubs. They help build ramps for those in need, hold canned food drives, collect coats, sort food for the Christmas Mother, collect jeans for the homeless and work with ESPN and the Salvation Army to collect sporting goods for children ages 10-17.
  Contact: 378-2480
• Savings bank
  Watkins Elementary students have the opportunity to establish a savings account, make deposits and learn about the banking process, supported by Essex Bank. A bank representative will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings to assist students.
  Contact: 378-2530
• Reading buddies
  First-graders at Chalkley Elementary get together at 1 p.m. on Fridays with their reading buddies.
  Contact: 674-1300
• Reading
  Swift Creek Middle participates in the Accelerated Reader Program. Each book in the library has an Accelerated Reader test that enables students to choose their favorite genre, authors and titles, then check their reading skills after they read.
  Contact: 739-6315
• Student recognition
  Alberta Smith Elementary will recognize students for demonstrating the core values during a 7:45 a.m. breakfast on the first Thursday of each month except January.
  Contact: Elizabeth Stefanko, 739-6295
• Manners
  At Chalkley Elementary, small groups of fifth-graders will meet weekly for Manners on the Move.
  Contact: 674-1300
• Family reading nights
  Harrowgate Elementary’s library will be open 6-8 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month for families to spend quality time together, share interests, discuss books and check out books.
  Contact: Susan Bochman, 520-6015
• Chess
  The Watkins Elementary Chess Club will meet 8:15-9:10 a.m. the first Friday morning of each month in the cafeteria.
  Contact: Becky Rose, 594-3519
• Fitness
  Swift Creek Elementary’s Jog/Walk Club will meet at 8:40 a.m. Tuesdays on the school track.
  Contact: 739-6305
• Student of the Month
  Spring Run Elementary fifth-graders will be recognized each month with the Student of the Month program.
  Contact: 639-6352
• Peaceful School Bus
  Woolridge Elementary is implementing the Peaceful School Bus program, designed to create a climate of respect and cooperation on the bus. The program aims to build strong, positive relationships among students and bus drivers.
  Contact: Nancy Drum, 739-6330
• Make A Change
  The Make A Change Club at Swift Creek Middle works to eliminate bullying and promote positive social behaviors among students. The MAC Club will work throughout the year to make a difference.
  Contact: 739-6315
• Fuel Up to Play 60
  Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school health and fitness program sponsored by the NFL and the National Dairy Council. The James Farrior Foundation also supports Chesterfield schools involved with Fuel Up to Play 60. This year, six elementary schools in Chesterfield County — Hopkins, Jacobs Road, Davis, Crestwood, Matoaca and Spring Run — are piloting something new for this national program: collecting student data to see how Fuel Up to Play 60 improves health and fitness throughout the school year.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Exercise
  As part of the Fuel Up to Play 60, Spring Run Elementary will have a 20-minute morning exercise/activity each Monday and Friday 7:50-8:10 a.m.
  Contact: 639-6352
• Business and Community Resource Bank
  The Business and Community Resource Bank offers an easy way to make a difference in schools by connecting people willing to share their knowledge with teachers who need classroom speakers or volunteers. Whether a community member would like to speak about his area of expertise, participate in a career day or mentor a student, the resource bank can make the connection with a school. To participate, fill out the resource bank survey at mychesterfieldschools.com.
  Contact: 748-1405
• Mileage Club
  Greenfield Elementary’s Mileage Club will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
  Contact: Jennie Raugh, 560-2720
•  Mentors
  Hening Elementary’s Shooting Stars mentoring program is entering its fourth year. The program matches students with staff mentors. Shooting Stars receives support from the Virginia Mentoring Partnership Organization through VCU.
  Contact: Kitten Gilmore, 743-3655
•  Lunch wishes
  At Hening Elementary, the Lunch Lady Program helps students who cannot pay for lunch. It is funded by contributions from the PTA, parents, staff members and community. Last year, more than 2,100 lunches were covered.
  Contact: 743-3655
•  Book group
  Providence Middle teachers are setting a great example for students: They are increasing their vocabulary by participating in Teachers R Reading book group.
  Contact: 674-1355
• Volunteers
  Volunteer readers from Enterprise Holdings read to second- and third-grade students at Hening Elementary on most Wednesdays.
  Contact: Bethany Dancey, 743-3655
• Free supplies for school employees
  From Crayons to Computers is packed with donated school and office supplies to be given away. Located in the Spring Rock Green shopping center at 7138 Midlothian Turnpike, the store is open to all Chesterfield County Public Schools employees 2:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when school is in session. Donations are welcome and are tax-deductible.
  Contact: 276-7407 or 305-4279

The Chesterfield County School Board will hold a work session on project-based learning 8:30-10:30 a.m. Jan. 25 in the Chesterfield Room of the Fulghum Center, 4003 Cogbill Road.

The Liaison Committee, which includes members of the Chesterfield County School Board and members of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors, will meet at 1:30 p.m. Jan. 26 in the boardroom of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.

Members of the Chesterfield County School Board will attend the annual banquet of the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 27 at the Holiday Inn Koger Conference Center, 1021 Koger Center Blvd.

The Chesterfield County School Board will hold a retreat 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 3 in the L. Douglas Wilder Building, located on Carter G. Woodson Avenue on the campus of Virginia State University.

Book fair
Robious Middle will hold a book fair and readathon to support the READ Center of Richmond. On Jan. 12, the book fair will be open 6-8 p.m. and there will also be an ice cream social.
Contact: 378-2510

Jan. 16-23

Visit
The MathScience Innovation Center of Richmond will visit third- and fourth-grade students at Chalkley Elementary.
Contact: 674-1300

Jan. 17

Award winner
Julia Edwards, a student at Greenfield Elementary, will be among a dozen children honored at the state Capitol for winning an art contest with the theme “Use a Helmet, Prevent Epilepsy” that was sponsored by the Epilepsy Foundation of Virginia.
Contact: (434) 924-8669

Performance
The Richmond Symphony will perform for fourth- and fifth-graders at Alberta Smith Elementary.
Contact: 739-6295

Games
Hening Elementary’s PTO will hold a family game night 7-8 p.m. that will include “Family Feud.”
Contact: 743-3655

Talent show
Greenfield Elementary fourth- and fifth-graders will participate in a talent show held in the cafeteria at 7 p.m.
Contact: Lisa Overmyer, 560-2720

Performance
The Richmond Symphony will perform for Chalkley Elementary fifth-graders 9-9:45 a.m.
Contact: 674-1300

Reception
Evergreen Elementary will host a reception at 7 p.m. to recognize students who participated in the PTA Reflections Program.
Contact: 378-2400

Jan. 17-19

Classes
S.T.E.P.P. (Success Through Education and Proactive Policing) representatives will be at Swift Creek Elementary. Kindergarten classes will discuss respect for authority, first-graders will discuss Emergency 911, third-graders will discuss peer pressure, fourth-graders will discuss responsible citizenship, and fifth-graders will discuss peer influences.
Contact: Rhonda Redmon, 318-8725

Jan. 18

What’s Next Wednesday
Building on Chesterfield Goes to College Week, the school system is promoting college and career readiness with What’s Next Wednesdays. The theme for students on these days is to identify what’s next as they plan for postsecondary education and future career.
Contact: 748-1405

Dinner
Grange Hall Elementary families will eat 5-8 p.m. at McDonald’s in Hancock Village.
Contact: 739-6265

In-school field trip
A representative from Federal Franklin Bank will present “Making Money Count” to second-graders at Matoaca Elementary.
Contact: Mary Michon, 590-3100

Jan. 18-20

Field trip
Fifth-grade students from Evergreen Elementary will learn about fractal keys during a trip to Harrowgate Elementary.
Contact: 378-2400

Jan. 19

Meeting
The Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee will meet at 8 a.m. in Room 203 of the Chesterfield Technical Center, 10101 Courthouse Road.
Contact: 768-6165

Coffee
Parents are invited to meet with Swift Creek Elementary Principal Peggy Innes for coffee and conversation 9:30-10:30 a.m. There will be a presentation about body image and self-esteem.
Contact: Peggy Innes, 739-6305

Field trip
Exceptional education classes from Matoaca Middle will visit the Science Museum of Virginia.
Contact: 590-3110

Parent workshop
Harrowgate Elementary will hold an informational workshop for parents about substance abuse among adolescents 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the Parent/Community Trailer.
Contact: Taffy Jones-Hayes, 520-4273

Field trip
Matoaca Elementary third-grade students will visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. to tour the Greece, Rome and Mali exhibits.
Contact: Katie Bailey, 590-3100

Concert
Carver Middle’s jazz band will perform in the auditorium at 7 p.m.
Contact: 524-3620

Jan. 19-20

Performance
Midlothian Middle seventh-grade drama students will perform selections from “Law and Order: Fairy Tale Unit” during second period.
Contact: 378-2460

Jan. 20

Citizenship ceremony
Tomahawk Creek Middle will host a U.S. citizenship ceremony 10-11 a.m. in the auditorium. About 25 people will become U.S. citizens. Eighth-grade students will attend the ceremony, which correlates to their studies of U.S. civics. The speaker will be Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli.
Contact: Rebecca Fox, 378-7120

Parent workshop
In the Parent/Community Trailer, Harrowgate Elementary will hold a reading comprehension workshop 9:30-10:30 a.m. for parents of students in grades 3-5. Reading specialists will discuss how parents can help students with reading comprehension skills.
Contact: Taffy Jones-Hayes, 520-4273

Field trip
Swift Creek Elementary fifth-grade students will visit Agecroft Hall 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. to supplement their study of Europe and learn about life in an English manor.
Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Performance
Swift Creek Elementary students will enjoy a performance by the Tomahawk Creek Middle band 2:45-3:30 p.m.
Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Field trip
Reams Road Elementary prekindergarten students will visit the Teddy Bear Clinic at St. Francis Hospital.
Contact: 674-1370

Visitor
A speaker from the Chesterfield County Utility Department will teach Hopkins Elementary third-graders about the water cycle, water sources and water conservation.
Contact: 743-3665

In-school field trip
Young Scientists will present a lesson on motion to Matoaca Elementary first-grade students.
Contact: Meredith Torres, 590-3100

Visit
Robious Middle representatives will visit fifth-grade students at Greenfield Elementary.
Contact: 560-2720

Jan. 21

Dance concert
The Visual and Performing Arts Specialty Center will present “Gather,” a dance concert featuring Virginia and North Carolina college dance companies, at 8 p.m. in the Thomas Dale High auditorium. Admission is $10, but free to senior citizens and children 5 and younger.
Contact: 768-6245, ext. 6697

Jan. 23

Visitor
Dr. Roger Loria, a Holocaust survivor, will visit Marguerite Christian Elementary at 11 a.m. to talk with fifth-grade Center Based Gifted students. He will discuss what it was like to live in a refugee camp, then rebuild his life in Israel after the war.
Contact: 530-5733

Meeting
The County Council of PTAs/PTSAs will meet at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Dinner
Swift Creek Elementary families will eat at Johnny Rockets 4-9 p.m.
Contact: 739-6305

Chess
Hening Elementary’s Chess Club will meet in the library 3:45-4:45 p.m.
Contact: Susan Sennewald, 743-3655

Jan. 23-Feb. 15

Chinese New Year
Watkins Elementary students will celebrate Chinese New Year, the start of the year of the dragon. Student art will be displayed at the Barnes & Noble at Chesterfield Towne Center.
Contact: Jenny Youman, 378-2530

Jan. 24

Meeting
The Chesterfield County School Board will meet at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road. There will be a work session at 4:30 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Parent workshop
Hopkins Elementary will hold its annual SOL Night for parents of students in grades 3-5. The workshop will provide opportunities for parents to interact with school staff members and learn strategies to prepare students for SOL tests.
Contact: 743-3665

Concert
The Visual and Performing Arts Specialty Center will hold a jazz band concert 7 p.m. in the Thomas Dale High auditorium.
Contact: 768-6245, ext. 6664

Fitness
Harrowgate Elementary will be hold Family Fitness and Health Night for students and their families 6-8 p.m. in the gymnasium. The event will introduce families to fun ways of keeping healthy and fit together by participating in many different activities, including zumba.
Contact: Donna Pollak, 520-6015

Performance
Bellwood Elementary third-graders will sing and fourth-graders will play recorders at 6 p.m. during S.T.E.M. Night in the cafeteria.
Contact: 743-3600

Skate night
Bailey Bridge Middle families will skate 6-8 p.m. at the rink located at 3330 Speeks Drive.
Contact: 739-6200

Jan. 24 and Jan. 26

Field trip
Sixth-graders from Matoaca Middle visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Contact: 590-3110

Jan. 25

Early release
Chesterfield County Public Schools will dismiss students three hours early so that teachers can participate in professional development.
Contact: 748-1405

Healthy event
As part of Fuel Up to Play 60, Matoaca Elementary will hold a family night 6-7:30 p.m. Representatives from Fort Lee and the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service will provide nutrition advice, offer tips for planning healthy meals on a tight budget, set up an obstacle course and present treats from Fort Lee’s culinary school.
Contact: Ellen Nichols, 590-3100

Pizza night
Grange Hall Elementary families will eat 5-8 p.m. at Cici’s Pizza on Hull Street Road.
Contact: 739-6265

Jan. 26

Family fun
Reams Road Elementary’s PTA will sponsor a night of games and fun for students and their families.
Contact: 674-1370

Jan. 26-27

Performance
Midlothian Middle eighth-grade drama students will present one-act plays (“The Rehearsal” and “The Audition”) during first period. At 6:30 p.m., there will be a dinner theater featuring the one-act plays.
Contact: 378-2460

Jan. 27

Nine weeks
This is the end of the second nine-week grading period and end of the first semester for the school year.
Contact: 748-1405

Books
Swift Creek Elementary’s PTA book club will meet 8:15-9:15 a.m. to discuss “Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher.”
Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Field trip
Hening Elementary fifth-grade Center Based Gifted students will attend a play at the Swift Creek Mill Theater 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Contact: Susan Sennewald, 743-3655

Parent coffee
Watkins Elementary parents are invited to coffee and discussion in the cafeteria 9:30-10:30 a.m. The topic will be “Cyberbullying and Internet Safety.”
Contact: Sarah Spencer, 378-2530

Talent show
Carver Middle will hold a talent show in the auditorium at 7 p.m.
Contact: 524-3620

Jan. 30

Student holiday
Students are not in school. This is a teacher workday.
Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 31

Coffee
Reams Elementary will hold a coffee at 8 a.m. to discuss the world language program.
Contact: 674-1370

Performance
A section of the Richmond Symphony will perform for Matoaca Elementary students at 9:30 a.m.
Contact: Leah Kovack, 590-3100

Scheduling
At 7 p.m. in the auditorium, parents of current middle school students who will attend Matoaca High in the fall are invited to learn about scheduling options and courses.
Contact: 590-3108

Jan. 31-Feb. 29

Reading
Bettie Weaver Elementary will hold a schoolwide reading of E.B. White’s “Trumpet of the Swans.” Parents, students and teachers will collectively read the book and engage in related activities.
Contact: 378-2540

Feb. 1

Reading
Read Across America begins at Evergreen Elementary.
Contact: 378-2400

Feb. 2

Meeting
The Gifted Education Advisory Committee will meet at 6:30 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
Contact: 594-1767

Assembly
Providence Middle will have its second Pillars of Providence recognition assembly 7:45-8:30 a.m. to celebrate achievement, one of the four Pillars of Providence. The others are respect, mind-set and self-control.
Contact: 674-1355

Feb. 2-4

Talent show
Bailey Bridge Middle will hold a talent show in the auditorium 7 p.m.
Contact: 739-6200

Feb. 3

Author visit
Author Sue Corbett will visit Robious Middle sixth-grade students and Battle of the Books students.
Contact: 378-2510

Feb. 3-9

Book fair
Evergreen Elementary will hold a book fair during school hours. On Feb. 9, there will be a dinner and the book fair will be open in the evening.
Contact: 378-2400

Ongoing

Nails
Students at the Chesterfield Technical Center offer manicures, pedicures and foot massages 11 a.m.-1 p.m. weekdays, staying open until 3 p.m. on Tuesdays.
Contact: 768-6160, ext. 1046

Enrichment
Gordon Elementary will hold enrichment classes every Thursday Jan. 19-Feb. 23.
Contact: 378-2410

R.E.B. Awards
Nominations are being accepted for the R.E.B. Awards for Teaching Excellence, which are designed to identify, recognize and support teaching excellence in Richmond area public school systems. Professional development grants ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 each will be awarded to teachers who have distinguished themselves by their inspiring classroom performance. Nomination forms are available online at www.tcfrichmond.org and in the school offices. Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. Feb. 23.
Contact: www.tcfrichmond.org

Art
The art teachers at Watkins Elementary have teamed with Artsonia, the world’s largest online kid’s art museum, to display student artwork at
www.artsonia.com/schools/watkins1.
Contact: 378-2530

Enrichment
Bettie Weaver Elementary will hold enrichment classes beginning Jan. 24 and continuing for five weeks. A variety of after-school enrichment classes will be offered and are provided by teachers, parents and community members.
Contact: 378-2540

Books
Watkins Elementary is partnering with the Book Exchange on Midlothian Turnpike to give students who were not able to purchase books at the book fair an opportunity to purchase books. When turning in books for exchange, just ask that Watkins Elementary be on the credit slip. This will allow designated students the opportunity to go to the Book Exchange and choose a book for themselves.
Contact: Mallory Smith, 378-2530

After-school program
Bensley Elementary runs an after-school program on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through April 24. Students receive remedial instruction in reading, math and writing. Enrichment activities include Mad Science and a self-esteem group.
Contact: 743-3610

Reading challenge
Elizabeth Scott Elementary has challenged students to read at least 20 minutes a night. Students are graphing their minutes at school and at each milestone (500, 1,000, 1,500 and 2,000 minutes), they receive a special bracelet and schoolwide recognition. The school hopes to reach 1 million minutes total in December, then will begin a new challenge in January.

Contact: 541-4660

Violin lessons
Watkins Elementary is offering a beginning violin class for fourth- and fifth-graders at 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through Feb. 16.
Contact: 378-2530

Bravo! Awards
The Chesterfield Education Foundation is seeking graduates of Chesterfield County Public Schools who are making a difference. Nomination forms are available at high schools and online at www.cpefound.org. Nominations are due to the foundation by 5 p.m. Feb. 13.
Contact: 379-1551

Interact Club
Clover Hill High’s Interact Club is helping the community in a variety of ways: picking up trash, volunteering at the Midlothian Food Festival, donating more than 700 pounds of food to the Central Virginia Food Bank and sponsoring a Chesterfield family through the Christmas Mother.
Contact: Rebekah Amato, 639-4940, ext. 6315

Community service
Monacan High students are making a difference in the community through various clubs. They help build ramps for those in need, hold canned food drives, collect coats, sort food for the Christmas Mother, collect jeans for the homeless and work with ESPN and the Salvation Army to collect sporting goods for children ages 10-17.
Contact: 378-2480

Savings bank
Watkins Elementary students have the opportunity to establish a savings account, make deposits and learn about the banking process, supported by Essex Bank. A bank representative will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings to assist students.
Contact: 378-2530

Reading buddies
First-graders at Chalkley Elementary get together at 1 p.m. on Fridays with their reading buddies.
Contact: 674-1300

Reading
Swift Creek Middle participates in the Accelerated Reader Program. Each book in the library has an Accelerated Reader test that enables students to choose their favorite genre, authors and titles, then check their reading skills after they read.
Contact: 739-6315

Student recognition
Alberta Smith Elementary will recognize students for demonstrating the core values during a 7:45 a.m. breakfast on the first Thursday of each month except January.
Contact: Elizabeth Stefanko, 739-6295

Manners
At Chalkley Elementary, small groups of fifth-graders will meet weekly for Manners on the Move.
Contact: 674-1300

Family reading nights
Harrowgate Elementary’s library will be open 6-8 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month for families to spend quality time together, share interests, discuss books and check out books.
Contact: Susan Bochman, 520-6015

Chess
The Watkins Elementary Chess Club will meet 8:15-9:10 a.m. the first Friday morning of each month in the cafeteria.
Contact: Becky Rose, 594-3519

Fitness
Swift Creek Elementary’s Jog/Walk Club will meet at 8:40 a.m. Tuesdays on the school track.
Contact: 739-6305

Student of the Month
Spring Run Elementary fifth-graders will be recognized each month with the Student of the Month program.
Contact: 639-6352

Peaceful School Bus
Woolridge Elementary is implementing the Peaceful School Bus Program, designed to create a climate of respect and cooperation on the bus. The program aims to build strong, positive relationships among students and bus drivers.
Contact: Nancy Drum, 739-6330

Make A Change
The Make A Change Club at Swift Creek Middle works to eliminate bullying and promote positive social behaviors among students. The MAC Club will work throughout the year to make a difference.
Contact: 739-6315

Fuel Up to Play 60
Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school health and fitness program sponsored by the NFL and the National Dairy Council. The James Farrior Foundation also supports Chesterfield schools involved with Fuel Up to Play 60. This year, six elementary schools in Chesterfield County — Hopkins, Jacobs Road, Davis, Crestwood, Matoaca and Spring Run — are piloting something new for this national program: collecting student data to see how Fuel Up to Play 60 improves health and fitness throughout the school year.
Contact: 748-1405

Exercise
As part of the Fuel Up to Play 60, Spring Run Elementary will have a 20-minute morning exercise/activity each Monday and Friday 7:50-8:10 a.m.
Contact: 639-6352

Business and Community Resource Bank
The Business and Community Resource Bank offers an easy way to make a difference in schools by connecting people willing to share their knowledge with teachers who need classroom speakers or volunteers. Whether a community member would like to speak about his area of expertise, participate in a career day or mentor a student, the resource bank can make the connection with a school. To participate, fill out the resource bank survey at mychesterfieldschools.com.
Contact: 748-1405

Mileage Club
Greenfield Elementary’s Mileage Club will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Contact: Jennie Raugh, 560-2720

Mentors
Hening Elementary’s Shooting Stars mentoring program is entering its fourth year. The program matches students with staff mentors. Shooting Stars receives support from the Virginia Mentoring Partnership Organization through VCU.
Contact: Kitten Gilmore, 743-3655

Lunch wishes
At Hening Elementary, the Lunch Lady Program helps students who cannot pay for lunch. It is funded

Read the media release from the Greater Richmond Chamber. (PDF)

Communities In Schools

The mission of Communities In Schools (CIS) of Chesterfield is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. Many children face challenges both inside and outside the classroom. Through a school-based coordinator, CIS strategically aligns and delivers needed resources so that students can focus on learning. CIS builds relationships with students, teachers, families, and multiple community resources, with a singular focus, improving academic achievement.

CIS of Chesterfield currently serves students at 5 Chesterfield County Public Schools. We serve students at Chesterfield Community High School , Salem Church Middle School, Bellwood Elementary, Chalkley Elementary, and Ettrick Elementary.

Visit the CIS of Chesterfield website
Communities in Schools National Website

2010-11 Annual Report
Annual Giving Campaign
Career Shadowing
Reducing Dropout Rates
How You Can Help

Chesterfield Public Education Foundation

In all programming, CIS of Chesterfield promotes the CIS Five Basics.

Every child needs and deserves:

1. A one-on-one relationship with a caring adult
2. A safe place to learn and grow
3. A healthy start and a healthy future
4. A marketable skill to use upon graduation
5. A chance to give back to peers and community

For more information, call Jay Swedenborg at (804) 717-9305

Patricia Carpenter, who represents the Midlothian District, will serve as chair.  David Wyman, who represents the Dale District, will serve as vice chair.  The other School Board members are Carrie Coyner representing the Bermuda District,

Dianne Smith representing the Clover Hill District and Tom Doland representing the Matoaca District.

Carpenter shared her outlook for the upcoming year, saying, “We face this coming year with optimism and gratitude.  We have much to be thankful for here in Chesterfield County.  We enjoy an excellent quality of life and a reputation for providing high quality instruction and being a leader in public education throughout the Commonwealth.”

She went on to say, “We will continue to strive for excellence in all that we do.  Complacency is not an option. We live in a time of fast paced change, increased demands and decreased resources.  It is this board’s intention to continue our commitment to high standards and high quality.”

The continued support of the public – both internal and external

stakeholders – is crucial to the school division’s success, Carpenter said, “This is the community’s school division; these are the community’s facilities.  As elected officials, we must make decisions that are in the best interests of our students.  And that, in turn, is in the best interest of the long-term vitality of our community.”

Meeting schedule for 2012

The School Board will conduct business meetings starting at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road, on Jan. 24, Feb. 14, Feb. 28, March 13, March 27, April 24, May 8, May 22, June 26, Aug. 14, Aug. 28, Sept. 11,

Sept. 24, Oct. 9, Nov. 13, Dec. 11.  Work sessions are also held before every regular meeting starting at 4:30 p.m. in the Central Office Board Rooms, 9900 Krause Road.

Registration
Registration for Adult Continuing Education classes starts at 8:30 a.m. at door 3 of the Chesterfield Technical Center
Contact: 768-6140

Meeting
The School Health Advisory Board will meet 7-9 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
Contact: 594-1757

STEM
During STEM Night, Matoaca Elementary students will enjoy a presentation from Mad Science and will rotate through various stations as they complete activities incorporating science, technology, engineering and math 6:45-8:15 p.m.
Contact: Debbie Wessel, 590-3100

Math night
Marguerite Christian Elementary will have a Math Night, starting at 5:15 p.m. with pizza. Parents and students can move to various stations and play math games, get help with homework and receive resources to take home.
Contact: 530-5733

 Scheduling
At 7 p.m. in the auditorium, parents of Matoaca High students in grades 9-11 are invited to learn more about the class scheduling options and courses.
Contact: 590-3108

Chess
Hening Elementary’s Chess Club will meet in the library 3:45-4:45 p.m.
Contact: Susan Sennewald, 743-3655

Jan. 9-20

Book fair
Robious Middle will hold a book fair and read-a-thon to support the READ Center of Richmond. On Jan. 12, the book fair will be open 6-8 p.m. and there will also be an ice cream social.
Contact: 378-2510

Jan. 10

Meeting
The Chesterfield County School Board will meet at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Musical
Spring Run Elementary third-grade students will present a bullying prevention musical titled “Don’t Laugh at Me!” at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. A guest speaker will discuss online bullying and Internet safety.
Contact: 639-6352

Savings program
Hening Elementary second-graders will learn about saving money during a program presented by Franklin Federal Savings.
Contact: Rachel Robinson, 743-3655

Writing event
Gates Elementary students who have disabilities will participate in Writing Wonderland 1:15-2:15 p.m.
Contact: Allie Strollo, 768-6195

Jan. 10-11

Fete
Hening Elementary Center Based Gifted students will have a French Fete in the cafeteria, where they will sample traditional French foods and drinks, sing folk songs and view a slide show of French monuments and landscapes.
Contact: Amy Gammon, 743-3655

Jan. 11

Meeting
The Special Education Advisory Committee will meet 4:30-6 p.m. at the Parent-Teacher Resource Center in the Fulghum Center, 4003 Cogbill Road.
Contact: 594-1732

DECA
Monacan High will host the countywide awards banquet for DECA marketing students at 7 p.m. Competitors who have qualified for the state leadership conference will be recognized.
Contact: Monica Boehling, 594-4686

Skate night
Gordon Elementary families will skate 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Speeks Road location.
Contact: 378-2410

Field trip
Alberta Smith Elementary second-grade students view the mummy exhibit at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Contact: 739-6295

Jan. 12

Author visit
Ginjer Clarke, author of nonfiction science books about wild and unusual animals, will visit Swift Creek Elementary 10-11 a.m.
Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Pinning ceremony
National Board Certified Teachers from Chesterfield and nearby school systems will be honored during a pinning ceremony at 5 p.m. at Virginia Commonwealth University in the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, 922 Park Ave.
Contact: 748-1405

Performance
The Bailey Bridge Middle chorus will perform for fifth-grade students at Alberta Smith Elementary.
Contact: 739-6295

Ceremony
The National Junior Honor Society will induct new members at Matoaca Middle.
Contact: 590-3110

Dinner
Hening Elementary families will eat 5-8 p.m. at McDonald’s on Hopkins Road.
Contact: Celeste Roberts, 743-3655

Dinner
Reams Road Elementary families will eat at Chick-fil-A.
Contact: 674-1370

Jan. 12-13

Dance showcase
Visual and Performing Arts Specialty Center seniors will present “Bye,” a dance showcase, at 7 p.m. in the Thomas Dale High auditorium. Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for students.
Contact: Denise Purvis, 768-6245, ext. 6697

Jan. 13

Medieval Fair
Fifth-grade Center Based Gifted students will hold a Medieval Faire 12:30-2:30 p.m. in the Winterpock Elementary cafeteria.
Contact: 763-5051

Dance
Alberta Smith Elementary PTA will sponsor a father-daughter dance 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Inflation Nation.
Contact: 739-6295

Parent workshop
Harrowgate Elementary will hold a reading workshop for parents of students in kindergarten through second grade 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the Parent/Community Trailer. Reading specialists will show how parents can help children improve their reading skills.
Contact: Taffy Jones-Hayes, 520-4273

Bingo
Grange Hall Elementary families can bingo in the gymnasium 6:30-8 p.m.
Contact: 739-6265

Field trip
Reams Road Elementary prekindergarten students will visit the Teddy Bear Clinic at St. Francis Hospital.
Contact: 674-1370

Jan. 16

Schools closed
The schools and offices of Chesterfield County Public Schools will be closed.
Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 17

Performance
The Richmond Symphony will perform for fourth- and fifth-graders at Alberta Smith Elementary.
Contact: 739-6295

Games
Hening Elementary’s PTO will hold a family game night 7-8 p.m. that will include “Family Feud.”
Contact: 743-3655

Jan. 17-19

Classes
S.T.E.P.P. (Success Through Education and Proactive Policing) representatives will be at Swift Creek Elementary. Kindergarten classes will discuss respect for authority, first-graders will discuss Emergency 911, third-graders will discuss peer pressure, fourth-graders will discuss responsible citizenship, and fifth-graders will discuss peer influences.
Contact: Rhonda Redmon, 318-8725

Jan. 18

What’s Next Wednesday
Building on Chesterfield Goes to College Week, the school system is promoting college and career readiness with What’s Next Wednesdays. The theme for students on these days is to identify what’s next as they plan for postsecondary education and future career.
Contact: 748-1405

Dinner
Grange Hall Elementary families will eat 5-8 p.m. at McDonald’s in Hancock Village.
Contact: 739-6265

Jan. 19

Meeting
The Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee will meet at 8 a.m. in Room 203 of the Chesterfield Technical Center, 10101 Courthouse Road.
Contact: 768-6165

Coffee
Parents are invited to meet with Swift Creek Elementary Principal Peggy Innes for coffee and conversation 9:30-10:30 a.m. There will be a presentation about body image and self-esteem.
Contact: Peggy Innes, 739-6305

Field trip
Exceptional education classes from Matoaca Middle will visit the Science Museum of Virginia.
Contact: 590-3110

Parent workshop
Harrowgate Elementary will hold an informational workshop for parents about substance abuse among adolescents 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the Parent/Community Trailer.
Contact: Taffy Jones-Hayes, 520-4273

Jan. 20

Field trip
Swift Creek Elementary fifth-grade students will visit Agecroft Hall 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. to supplement their study of Europe and learn about life in an English manor.
Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Performance
Swift Creek Elementary students will enjoy a performance by the Tomahawk Creek Middle band 2:45-3:30 p.m.
Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Citizenship ceremony
Tomahawk Creek Middle will host a U.S. citizenship ceremony 10-11 a.m. in the auditorium. About 25 people will become U.S. citizens. Eighth-grade students will attend the ceremony, which correlates to their studies of U.S. civics.
Contact: Rebecca Fox, 378-7120

Parent workshop
In the Parent/Community Trailer, Harrowgate Elementary will hold a reading comprehension workshop 9:30-10:30 a.m. for parents of students in grades 3-5. Reading specialists will discuss how parents can help students with reading comprehension skills.
Contact: Taffy Jones-Hayes, 520-4273

 Field trip
Reams Road Elementary prekindergarten students will visit the Teddy Bear Clinic at St. Francis Hospital.
Contact: 674-1370

Jan. 21

Dance concert
The Visual and Performing Arts Specialty Center will present “Gather,” a dance symposium concert featuring Virginia and North Carolina college dance companies, at 8 p.m. in the Thomas Dale High auditorium. Admission is $10.
Contact: 768-6245, ext. 6697

Jan. 23

Chinese New Year
Watkins Elementary students will celebrate Chinese New Year, the start of the year of the dragon. Student art will be displayed at the Barnes & Noble at Chesterfield Towne Center through February.
Contact: Jenny Youman, 378-2530

Visitor
Dr. Roger Loria, a Holocaust survivor, will visit Marguerite Christian Elementary at 11 a.m. to talk with fifth-grade Center Base Gifted students. He will discuss what it was like to live in a refugee camp, then rebuild his life in Israel after the war.
Contact: 530-5733

Meeting
The County Council of PTAs/PTSAs will meet at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Dinner
Swift Creek Elementary families will eat at Johnny Rockets 4-9 p.m.
Contact: 739-6305

Chess
Hening Elementary’s Chess Club will meet in the library 3:45-4:45 p.m.
Contact: Susan Sennewald, 743-3655

Jan. 24

Parent workshop
Hopkins Elementary will hold its annual SOL Night for parents of students in grades 3-5. The workshop will provide opportunities for parents to interact with school staff members and learn strategies to prepare students for SOL tests.
Contact: 743-3665

Concert
The Visual and Performing Arts Specialty Center will hold a jazz band concert 7 p.m. in the Thomas Dale High auditorium.
Contact: 768-6245, ext. 6664

Fitness
Harrowgate Elementary will be hold Family Fitness and Health Night for students and their families 6-8 p.m. in the gymnasium. The event will introduce families to fun ways of keeping healthy and fit together by participating in many different activities, including zumba.
Contact: Donna Pollak, 520-6015

Jan. 24 and Jan. 26

Field trip
Sixth-graders from Matoaca Middle visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Contact: 590-3110

Jan. 25

Early release
Chesterfield County Public Schools will dismiss students three hours early so that teachers can participate in professional development.
Contact: 748-1405

Healthy event
As part of Fuel Up to Play 60, Matoaca Elementary will hold a family night 6:30-8 p.m. Representatives from Fort Lee and the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service will provide nutrition advice, offer tips planning healthy meals on a tight budget, set up an obstacle course and present treats from Fort Lee’s culinary school.
Contact: 590-3100

Pizza night
Grange Hall Elementary families will eat 5-8 p.m. at Cici’s Pizza on Hull Street Road.
Contact: 739-6265

Jan. 26

Family fun
Reams Road Elementary’s PTA will sponsor a night of games and fun for students and their families.
Contact: 674-1370

Jan. 27

Nine weeks
This is the end of the second nine-week grading period and end of the first semester for the school year.
Contact: 748-1405

Books for breakfast
Swift Creek Elementary’s PTA book club will meet 8:15-9:15 a.m. to discuss “Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher.”
Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Field trip
Hening Elementary fifth-grade Center Base Gifted students will attend a play at the Swift Creek Mill Theater 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Contact: Susan Sennewald, 743-3655

Jan. 30

Student holiday
Students are not in school. This is a teacher workday.
Contact: 748-1405

Ongoing

Enrichment
Gordon Elementary will hold enrichment classes every Thursday Jan. 19-Feb. 23.
Contact: 378-2410

After-school program
Bensley Elementary runs an after-school program on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through April 24. Students receive remedial instruction in reading, math and writing. Enrichment activities include Mad Science and a self-esteem group.
Contact: 743-3610

Reading challenge
Elizabeth Scott Elementary has challenged students to read at least 20 minutes a night. Students are graphing their minutes at school and at each milestone (500, 1,000, 1,500 and 2,000 minutes), they receive a special bracelet and schoolwide recognition. The school hopes to reach 1 million minutes total in December, then will begin a new challenge in January.
Contact: 541-4660

Violin lessons
Watkins Elementary will offer a beginning violin class for fourth- and fifth-graders at 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays Jan. 10 through Feb. 16.
Contact: 378-2530

Bravo! Awards
The Chesterfield Education Foundation is seeking graduates of Chesterfield County Public Schools who are making a difference. Nomination forms are available at high schools and online at www.cpefound.org. Nominations are due to the foundation by 5 p.m. Feb. 13.
Contact: 379-1551

Interact Club
Clover Hill High’s Interact Club is helping the community in a variety of ways: picking up trash, volunteering at the Midlothian Food Festival, donating more than 700 pounds of food to the Central Virginia Food Bank and sponsoring a Chesterfield family through the Christmas Mother.
Contact: Rebekah Amato, 639-4940, ext. 6315

Community service
Monacan High students are making a difference in the community through various clubs. They help build ramps for those in need, hold canned food drives, collect coats, sort food for the Christmas Mother, collect jeans for the homeless and work with ESPN and the Salvation Army to collect sporting goods for children ages 10-17.
Contact: 378-2480

Savings bank
Watkins Elementary students have the opportunity to establish a savings account, make deposits and learn about the banking process, supported by Essex Bank. A bank representative will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings to assist students.
Contact: 378-2530

Reading buddies
First-graders at Chalkley Elementary get together at 1 p.m. on Fridays with their reading buddies.
Contact: 674-1300

Reading
Swift Creek Middle participates in the Accelerated Reader Program. Each book in the library has an Accelerated Reader test that enables students to choose their favorite genre, authors and titles, then check their reading skills after they read.
Contact: 739-6315

Student recognition
Alberta Smith Elementary will recognize students for demonstrating the core values during a 7:45 a.m. breakfast on the first Thursday of each month except January.
Contact: Elizabeth Stefanko, 739-6295

Manners
At Chalkley Elementary, small groups of fifth-graders will meet weekly for Manners on the Move.
Contact: 674-1300

Family reading nights
Harrowgate Elementary’s library will be open 6-8 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month for families to spend quality time together, share interests, discuss books and check out books.
Contact: Susan Bochman, 520-6015

Chess
The Watkins Elementary Chess Club will meet 8:15-9:10 a.m. the first Friday morning of each month in the cafeteria.
Contact: Becky Rose, 594-3519

Fitness
Swift Creek Elementary’s Jog/Walk Club will meet at 8:40 a.m. Tuesdays on the school track.
Contact: 739-6305

Student of the Month
Spring Run Elementary fifth-graders will be recognized each month with the Student of the Month program.
Contact: 639-6352

Peaceful School Bus
Woolridge Elementary is implementing the Peaceful School Bus Program, designed to create a climate of respect and cooperation on the bus. The program aims to build strong, positive relationships among students and bus drivers.
Contact: Nancy Drum, 739-6330

Make A Change
The Make A Change Club at Swift Creek Middle works to eliminate bullying and promote positive social behaviors among students. The MAC Club will work throughout the year to make a difference.
Contact: 739-6315

Fuel Up to Play 60
Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school health and fitness program sponsored by the NFL and the National Dairy Council. The James Farrior Foundation also supports Chesterfield schools involved with Fuel Up to Play 60. This year, six elementary schools in Chesterfield County — Hopkins, Jacobs Road, Davis, Crestwood, Matoaca and Spring Run — are piloting something new for this national program: collecting student data to see how Fuel Up to Play 60 improves health and fitness throughout the school year.
Contact: 748-1405

Exercise
As part of the Fuel Up to Play 60, Spring Run Elementary will have a 20-minute morning exercise/activity each Monday and Friday 7:50-8:10 a.m.
Contact: 639-6352

Business and Community Resource Bank
The Business and Community Resource Bank offers an easy way to make a difference in schools by connecting people willing to share their knowledge with teachers who need classroom speakers or volunteers. Whether a community member would like to speak about his area of expertise, participate in a career day or mentor a student, the resource bank can make the connection with a school. To participate, fill out the resource bank survey at mychesterfieldschools.com.
Contact: 748-1405

Mileage Club
Greenfield Elementary’s Mileage Club will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Contact: Jennie Raugh, 560-2720

Mentors
Hening Elementary’s Shooting Stars mentoring program is entering its fourth year. The program matches students with staff mentors. Shooting Stars receives support from the Virginia Mentoring Partnership Organization through VCU.
Contact: Kitten Gilmore, 743-3655

Lunch wishes
At Hening Elementary, the Lunch Lady Program helps students who cannot pay for lunch. It is funded by contributions from the PTA, parents, staff members and community. Last year, more than 2,100 lunches were covered.
Contact: 743-3655

Book group
Providence Middle teachers are setting a great example for students: They are increasing their vocabulary by participating in Teachers R Reading book group.
Contact: 674-1355

Volunteers
Volunteer readers from Enterprise Holdings read to second- and third-grade students at Hening Elementary on most Wednesdays.
Contact: Bethany Dancey, 743-3655

Free supplies for school employees
From Crayons to Computers is packed with donated school and office supplies to be given away. Located in the Spring Rock Green shopping center at 7138 Midlothian Turnpike, the store is open to all Chesterfield County Public Schools employees 2:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when school is in session. Donations are welcome and are tax-deductible.
Contact: 276-7407 or 305-4279

Chesterfield schools earning the Governor’s Award for Educational Excellence are Grange Hall Elementary, Robious Elementary and Bettie Weaver Elementary. Statewide, 86 schools won this award. To qualify for the Governor’s Award for Educational Excellence, schools must meet all state and federal achievement benchmarks for at least two consecutive years and achieve goals for elementary reading, enrollment in Algebra I by eighth grade, enrollment in college-level courses, high school graduation, attainment of advanced diplomas, increased attainment of career and industry certifications and participation in the Virginia Preschool Initiative. Schools earn bonus points for other performance measures, including the Governor’s Nutrition and Physical Activity Scorecard.

Seven Chesterfield schools earned the next highest award, the Board of Education Excellence Award: Beulah Elementary, Gordon Elementary, Elizabeth Scott Elementary, Swift Creek Elementary, Wells Elementary, Winterpock Elementary and Woolridge Elementary. Statewide, 188 schools won this award.

Seven Chesterfield schools earned the next award, the Board of Education Competence to Excellence Award: Bellwood Elementary, Bensley Elementary, Bon Air Elementary, Enon Elementary, Harrowgate Elementary, Providence Elementary and Reams Road Elementary. Statewide, 171 schools won this award.

Student and staff safety is a top priority

Earlier this week, a first-grade student at Hopkins Elementary School died. Chesterfield County Public Schools is deeply saddened by the loss of this child and has reached out to her family. The school division is providing ongoing support for the students and staff at Hopkins.

As part of its goal of providing a safe, supportive and nurturing learning environment, Chesterfield County Public Schools has an extensive plan for managing severe allergies and a School Board policy covering the administration of medication. Chesterfield County Public Schools and the Chesterfield County Health Department collaborated to develop new guidelines for managing severe allergies in schools. The guidelines were reviewed and OK’d by the Health Department, local physicians and the School Health Advisory Board in May 2011.

Here’s how Chesterfield County Public Schools manages student health concerns: With physician and parent approval, health emergency plans are initiated for students with severe allergies. Appropriate school staff members are trained to administer emergency epinephrine to students for whom it is prescribed by a doctor. Allergy awareness information sessions have been provided to school staff members to educate them about the prevalence of severe allergies, the importance of preventing allergic reactions, early recognition of symptoms and treatment. Public health nurses provide case management for students with health concerns, providing instruction and education to school staff members to meet the health needs of the students.

The school division’s severe allergy plan has been reviewed by internal and external experts and is in line with state and national best practices. One local doctor was quoted on television this week saying, “It was an excellent plan. In fact, I read through the entire plan and found it to be very thorough.” A noted allergy specialist said that Chesterfield County Public Schools is “way ahead of the curve” in terms of developing strong guidelines, informing parents and educating the community about managing severe allergies.

Key to the school division’s plan to manage severe allergies is a parent’s responsibility to provide the school with accurate, timely information; a health emergency plan approved by a local physician; and the medicine
necessary to execute the plan. If any one of these items is missing, the doctor’s orders cannot be carried out. Chesterfield County Public Schools accepts medication that is either prescribed by a doctor or purchased
over the counter – both must be brought to school by a parent. Many students do have EpiPens at school; their EpiPens may be kept in the school’s clinic or may stay with the student, depending on what their physician prescribes. All over-the-counter medication must remain in the school clinic.

If a student’s health emergency plan calls for prescription or over-the-counter medicine and it is not provided to the school, the public health nurse contacts the family to obtain the necessary medication. The
school division relies on parents to follow through. The safety and security of students and staff members is a top priority of Chesterfield County Public Schools. The school division works daily to achieve that goal.

About Chesterfield County Public Schools

More than 58,000 students attend Chesterfield County Public Schools. Health Department data for the 2011-2012 school year show that there are

• 540 students with documented food allergies with emergency epinephrine prescribed
• 75 students with documented insect sting allergies with emergency epinephrine prescribed
• 19 students with a documented severe latex allergy with emergency epinephrine prescribed

For 2011-12, 0.92 percent of students in Chesterfield County Public Schools have documented food allergies with epinephrine prescribed.

Downloadable PDF documents:

At 4:30 p.m. Jan. 17 in the superintendent’s conference room of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road, the Chesterfield County School Board will meet in closed session under Section 2.2-3711(A)(2) of the Code of Virginia to discuss student discipline.

At 3 p.m. Jan. 19 in the superintendent’s conference room of the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road, the Chesterfield County School Board will meet in closed session under Section 2.2-3711(A)(1) of the Code of Virginia to discuss employee discipline.

Schools open
Chesterfield County Public Schools reopens after winter break.
Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 6

Concert
The all-county high school symphonic band will perform at 5 p.m. at Clover Hill High. David McKee, director of Virginia Tech’s Marching Virginians, will be the guest conductor.
Contact: 639-4940

Young authors
Midlothian Middle’s Guild of Young Authors will meet with children’s author Gigi Amateau noon-1:15 p.m. in the library.
Contact: Christy Martin, 378-2460

Jan. 9

Meeting
The School Health Advisory Board will meet 7-9 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.
Contact: 594-1757

Jan. 10

Meeting
The Chesterfield County School Board will meet at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Musical
Spring Run Elementary third-grade students will present a bullying prevention musical titled “Don’t Laugh at Me!” at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. A guest speaker will discuss online bullying and Internet safety.
Contact: 639-6352

Jan. 11

Meeting
The Special Education Advisory Committee will meet 4:30-6 p.m. at the Parent-Teacher Resource Center in the Fulghum Center, 4003 Cogbill Road.
Contact: 594-1732

DECA
Monacan High will host the countywide awards banquet for DECA marketing students at 7 p.m. Competitors who have qualified for the state leadership conference will be recognized.
Contact: Monica Boehling, 594-4686

Jan. 12

Author visit
Ginjer Clarke, author of nonfiction science books about wild and unusual animals, will visit Swift Creek Elementary 10-11 a.m.
Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Pinning ceremony
National Board Certified Teachers from Chesterfield and nearby school systems will be honored during a pinning ceremony at 5 p.m. at Virginia Commonwealth University in the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, 922 Park Ave.
Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 12-13

Dance showcase
Visual and Performing Arts Specialty Center seniors will present a dance showcase at 7 p.m. at Thomas Dale High. Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for students.
Contact: 768-6245

Jan. 13

Medieval Faire
Fifth-grade Center Based Gifted students will hold a Medieval Faire 12:30-2:30 p.m. in the Winterpock Elementary cafeteria.
Contact: 763-5051

Jan. 16

Closed
The schools and offices of Chesterfield County Public Schools will be closed.
Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 17-19

Classes
S.T.E.P.P. (Success Through Education and Proactive Policing) representatives will be at Swift Creek Elementary. Kindergarten classes will discuss respect for authority, first-graders will discuss Emergency 911, third-graders will discuss peer pressure, fourth-graders will discuss responsible citizenship, and fifth-graders will discuss peer influences.
Contact: Rhonda Redmon, 318-8725

Jan. 18

What’s Next Wednesday
Building on Chesterfield Goes to College Week, the school system is promoting college and career readiness with What’s Next Wednesdays. The theme for students on these days is to identify what’s next as they plan for postsecondary education and future career.
Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 19

Meeting
The Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee will meet at 8 a.m. in Room 203 of the Chesterfield Technical Center, 10101 Courthouse Road.
Contact: 768-6165

Coffee
Parents are invited to meet with Swift Creek Elementary Principal Peggy Innes for coffee and conversation 9:30-10:30 a.m. There will be a presentation about body image and self-esteem.
Contact: Peggy Innes, 739-6305

Jan. 20

Field trip
Swift Creek Elementary fifth-grade students will visit Agecroft Hall 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. to supplement their study of Europe and learn about life in an English manor.
Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Performance
Swift Creek Elementary students will enjoy a performance by the Tomahawk Creek Middle band 2:45-3:30 p.m.
Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Jan. 21

Dance concert
The Visual and Performing Arts Specialty Center will present “Gather,” a dance symposium concert featuring Virginia and North Carolina college dance companies, at 8 p.m. in the Thomas Dale High auditorium. Admission is $10.
Contact: 768-6245, ext. 6697

Jan. 23

Chinese New Year
Watkins Elementary students will celebrate Chinese New Year, the start of the year of the dragon. Student art will be displayed at the Barnes & Noble at Chesterfield Towne Center through February.
Contact: Jenny Youman, 378-2530

Meeting
The County Council of PTAs/PTSAs will meet at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road.
Contact: 748-1405

Dinner
Swift Creek Elementary families will eat at Johnny Rockets 4-9 p.m.
Contact: 739-6305

Ongoing

After-school program
Bensley Elementary runs an after-school program on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through April 24. Students receive remedial instruction in reading, math and writing. Enrichment activities include Mad Science and a self-esteem group.
Contact: 743-3610

Reading challenge
Elizabeth Scott Elementary has challenged students to read at least 20 minutes a night. Students are graphing their minutes at school and at each milestone (500, 1,000, 1,500 and 2,000 minutes), they receive a special bracelet and schoolwide recognition. The school hopes to reach 1 million minutes total in December, then will begin a new challenge in January.
Contact: 541-4660

Violin lessons
Watkins Elementary will offer a beginning violin class for fourth- and fifth-graders at 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays Jan. 10 through Feb. 16.
Contact: 378-2530

Bravo! Awards
The Chesterfield Education Foundation is seeking graduates of Chesterfield County Public Schools who are making a difference. Nomination forms are available at high schools and online at www.cpefound.org. Nominations are due to the foundation by 5 p.m. Feb. 13.
Contact: 379-1551

Interact Club
Clover Hill High’s Interact Club is helping the community in a variety of ways: picking up trash, volunteering at the Midlothian Food Festival, donating more than 700 pounds of food to the Central Virginia Food Bank and sponsoring a Chesterfield family through the Christmas Mother.
Contact: Rebekah Amato, 639-4940, ext. 6315

Community service
Monacan High students are making a difference in the community through various clubs. They help build ramps for those in need, hold canned food drives, collect coats, sort food for the Christmas Mother, collect jeans for the homeless and work with ESPN and the Salvation Army to collect sporting goods for children ages 10-17.
Contact: 378-2480

Savings bank
Watkins Elementary students have the opportunity to establish a savings account, make deposits and learn about the banking process, supported by Essex Bank. A bank representative will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings to assist students.
Contact: 378-2530

Reading buddies
First-graders at Chalkley Elementary get together at 1 p.m. on Fridays with their reading buddies.
Contact: 674-1300

Reading
Swift Creek Middle participates in the Accelerated Reader Program. Each book in the library has an Accelerated Reader test that enables students to choose their favorite genre, authors and titles, then check their reading skills after they read.
Contact: 739-6315

Student recognition
Alberta Smith Elementary will recognize students for demonstrating the core values during a 7:45 a.m. breakfast on the first Thursday of each month except January.
Contact: Elizabeth Stefanko, 739-6295

Manners
At Chalkley Elementary, small groups of fifth-graders will meet weekly for Manners on the Move
Contact: 674-1300

Family reading nights
Harrowgate Elementary’s library will be open 6-8 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month for families to spend quality time together, share interests, discuss books and check out books.
Contact: Susan Bochman, 520-6015

Chess
The Watkins Elementary Chess Club will meet 8:15-9:10 a.m. the first Friday morning of each month in the cafeteria.
Contact: Becky Rose, 594-3519

Fitness
Swift Creek Elementary’s Jog/Walk Club will meet at 8:40 a.m. Tuesdays on the school track.
Contact: 739-6305

Student of the Month
Spring Run Elementary fifth-graders will be recognized each month with the Student of the Month program.
Contact: 639-6352

Peaceful School Bus
Woolridge Elementary is implementing the Peaceful School Bus Program, designed to create a climate of respect and cooperation on the bus. The program aims to build strong, positive relationships among students and bus drivers.
Contact: Nancy Drum, 739-6330

Make A Change
The Make A Change Club at Swift Creek Middle works to eliminate bullying and promote positive social behaviors among students. The MAC Club will work throughout the year to make a difference.
Contact: 739-6315

Fuel Up to Play 60
Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school health and fitness program sponsored by the NFL and the National Dairy Council. The James Farrior Foundation also supports Chesterfield schools involved with Fuel Up to Play 60. This year, six elementary schools in Chesterfield County — Hopkins, Jacobs Road, Davis, Crestwood, Matoaca and Spring Run — are piloting something new for this national program: collecting student data to see how Fuel Up to Play 60 improves health and fitness throughout the school year.
Contact: 748-1405

Exercise
As part of the Fuel Up to Play 60, Spring Run Elementary will have a 20-minute morning exercise/activity each Monday and Friday 7:50-8:10 a.m.
Contact: 639-6352

Business and Community Resource Bank
The Business and Community Resource Bank offers an easy way to make a difference in schools by connecting people willing to share their knowledge with teachers who need classroom speakers or volunteers. Whether a community member would like to speak about his area of expertise, participate in a career day or mentor a student, the resource bank can make the connection with a school. To participate, fill out the resource bank survey at mychesterfieldschools.com.
Contact: 748-1405

Mileage Club
Greenfield Elementary’s Mileage Club will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Contact: Jennie Raugh, 560-2720

Mentors
Hening Elementary’s Shooting Stars mentoring program is entering its fourth year. The program matches students with staff mentors. Shooting Stars receives support from the Virginia Mentoring Partnership Organization through VCU.
Contact: Kitten Gilmore, 743-3655

Lunch wishes
At Hening Elementary, the Lunch Lady Program helps students who cannot pay for lunch. It is funded by contributions from the PTA, parents, staff members and community. Last year, more than 2,100 lunches were covered.
Contact: 743-3655

Book group
Providence Middle teachers are setting a great example for students: They are increasing their vocabulary by participating in Teachers R Reading book group.
Contact: 674-1355

Volunteers
Volunteer readers from Enterprise Holdings read to second- and third-grade students at Hening Elementary on most Wednesdays.
Contact: Bethany Dancey, 743-3655

Free supplies for school employees
From Crayons to Computers is packed with donated school and office supplies to be given away. Located in the Spring Rock Green shopping center at 7138 Midlothian Turnpike, the store is open to all Chesterfield County Public Schools employees 2:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when school is in session. Donations are welcome and are tax-deductible.
Contact: 276-7407 or 305-4279

Jan. 2

Schools open

Chesterfield County Public Schools reopens after winter break.

Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 6

Concert

The all-county high school symphonic band will perform at 5 p.m. at Clover Hill High. David McKee, director of Virginia Tech’s Marching Virginians, will be the guest conductor.

Contact: 639-4940

Young authors

Midlothian Middle’s Guild of Young Authors will meet with children’s author Gigi Amateau noon-1:15 p.m. in the library.

Contact: Christy Martin, 378-2460

Jan. 9

Meeting

The School Health Advisory Board will meet 7-9 p.m. at the School Administration Building, 9900 Krause Road.

Contact: 594-1757

Jan. 10

Meeting

The Chesterfield County School Board will meet at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road.

Contact: 748-1405

Musical

Spring Run Elementary third-grade students will present a bullying prevention musical titled “Don’t Laugh at Me!” at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. A guest speaker will discuss online bullying and Internet safety.

Contact: 639-6352

Jan. 11

Meeting

The Special Education Advisory Committee will meet 4:30-6 p.m. at the Parent-Teacher Resource Center in the Fulghum Center, 4003 Cogbill Road.

Contact: 594-1732

DECA

Monacan High will host the countywide awards banquet for DECA marketing students at 7 p.m. Competitors who have qualified for the state leadership conference will be recognized.

Contact: Monica Boehling, 594-4686

Jan. 12

Author visit

Ginjer Clarke, author of nonfiction science books about wild and unusual animals, will visit Swift Creek Elementary 10-11 a.m.

Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Pinning ceremony

National Board Certified Teachers from Chesterfield and nearby school systems will be honored during a pinning ceremony at 5 p.m. at Virginia Commonwealth University in the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, 922 Park Ave.

Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 12-13

Dance showcase

Visual and Performing Arts Specialty Center seniors will present a dance showcase at 7 p.m. at Thomas Dale High. Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for students.

Contact: 768-6245

Jan. 13

Medieval Faire

Fifth-grade Center Based Gifted students will hold a Medieval Faire 12:30-2:30 p.m. in the Winterpock Elementary cafeteria.

Contact: 763-5051

Jan. 16

Closed

The schools and offices of Chesterfield County Public Schools will be closed.

Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 17-19

Classes

S.T.E.P.P. (Success Through Education and Proactive Policing) representatives will be at Swift Creek Elementary. Kindergarten classes will discuss respect for authority, first-graders will discuss Emergency 911, third-graders will discuss peer pressure, fourth-graders will discuss responsible citizenship, and fifth-graders will discuss peer influences.

Contact: Rhonda Redmon, 318-8725

Jan. 18

What’s Next Wednesday

Building on Chesterfield Goes to College Week, the school system is promoting college and career readiness with What’s Next Wednesdays. The theme for students on these days is to identify what’s next as they plan for postsecondary education and future career.

Contact: 748-1405

Jan. 19

Meeting

The Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee will meet at 8 a.m. in Room 203 of the Chesterfield Technical Center, 10101 Courthouse Road.

Contact: 768-6165

Coffee

Parents are invited to meet with Swift Creek Elementary Principal Peggy Innes for coffee and conversation 9:30-10:30 a.m. There will be a presentation about body image and self-esteem.

Contact: Peggy Innes, 739-6305

Jan. 20

Field trip

Swift Creek Elementary fifth-grade students will visit Agecroft Hall 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. to supplement their study of Europe and learn about life in an English manor.

Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Performance

Swift Creek Elementary students will enjoy a performance by the Tomahawk Creek Middle band 2:45-3:30 p.m.

Contact: Stacey Mitchell, 739-6305

Jan. 21

Dance concert

The Visual and Performing Arts Specialty Center will present “Gather,” a dance symposium concert featuring Virginia and North Carolina college dance companies, at 8 p.m. in the Thomas Dale High auditorium. Admission is $10.

Contact: 768-6245, ext. 6697

Jan. 23

Chinese New Year

Watkins Elementary students will celebrate Chinese New Year, the start of the year of the dragon. Student art will be displayed at the Barnes & Noble at Chesterfield Towne Center through February.

Contact: Jenny Youman, 378-2530

Meeting

The County Council of PTAs/PTSAs will meet at 7 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road.

Contact: 748-1405

Dinner

Swift Creek Elementary families will eat at Johnny Rockets 4-9 p.m.

Contact: 739-6305

Ongoing

After-school program

Bensley Elementary runs an after-school program on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through April 24. Students receive remedial instruction in reading, math and writing. Enrichment activities include Mad Science and a self-esteem group.

Contact: 743-3610

Reading challenge

Elizabeth Scott Elementary has challenged students to read at least 20 minutes a night. Students are graphing their minutes at school and at each milestone (500, 1,000, 1,500 and 2,000 minutes), they receive a special bracelet and schoolwide recognition. The school hopes to reach 1 million minutes total in December, then will begin a new challenge in January.

Contact: 541-4660

Violin lessons

Watkins Elementary will offer a beginning violin class for fourth- and fifth-graders at 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays Jan. 10 through Feb. 16.

Contact: 378-2530

Bravo! Awards

The Chesterfield Education Foundation is seeking graduates of Chesterfield County Public Schools who are making a difference. Nomination forms are available at high schools and online at www.cpefound.org. Nominations are due to the foundation by 5 p.m. Feb. 13.

Contact: 379-1551

Interact Club

Clover Hill High’s Interact Club is helping the community in a variety of ways: picking up trash, volunteering at the Midlothian Food Festival, donating more than 700 pounds of food to the Central Virginia Food Bank and sponsoring a Chesterfield family through the Christmas Mother.

Contact: Rebekah Amato, 639-4940, ext. 6315

Community service

Monacan High students are making a difference in the community through various clubs. They help build ramps for those in need, hold canned food drives, collect coats, sort food for the Christmas Mother, collect jeans for the homeless and work with ESPN and the Salvation Army to collect sporting goods for children ages 10-17.

Contact: 378-2480

Savings bank

Watkins Elementary students have the opportunity to establish a savings account, make deposits and learn about the banking process, supported by Essex Bank. A bank representative will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings to assist students.

Contact: 378-2530

Reading buddies

First-graders at Chalkley Elementary get together at 1 p.m. on Fridays with their reading buddies.

Contact: 674-1300

Reading

Swift Creek Middle participates in the Accelerated Reader Program. Each book in the library has an Accelerated Reader test that enables students to choose their favorite genre, authors and titles, then check their reading skills after they read.

Contact: 739-6315

Student recognition

Alberta Smith Elementary will recognize students for demonstrating the core values during a 7:45 a.m. breakfast on the first Thursday of each month except January.

Contact: Elizabeth Stefanko, 739-6295

Manners

At Chalkley Elementary, small groups of fifth-graders will meet weekly for Manners on the Move.

Contact: 674-1300

Family reading nights

Harrowgate Elementary’s library will be open 6-8 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month for families to spend quality time together, share interests, discuss books and check out books.

Contact: Susan Bochman, 520-6015

Chess

The Watkins Elementary Chess Club will meet 8:15-9:10 a.m. the first Friday morning of each month in the cafeteria.

Contact: Becky Rose, 594-3519

Fitness

Swift Creek Elementary’s Jog/Walk Club will meet at 8:40 a.m. Tuesdays on the school track.

Contact: 739-6305

Student of the Month

Spring Run Elementary fifth-graders will be recognized each month with the Student of the Month program.

Contact: 639-6352

Peaceful School Bus

Woolridge Elementary is implementing the Peaceful School Bus Program, designed to create a climate of respect and cooperation on the bus. The program aims to build strong, positive relationships among students and bus drivers.

Contact: Nancy Drum, 739-6330

Make A Change

The Make A Change Club at Swift Creek Middle works to eliminate bullying and promote positive social behaviors among students. The MAC Club will work throughout the year to make a difference.

Contact: 739-6315

Fuel Up to Play 60

Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school health and fitness program sponsored by the NFL and the National Dairy Council. The James Farrior Foundation also supports Chesterfield schools involved with Fuel Up to Play 60. This year, six elementary schools in Chesterfield County — Hopkins, Jacobs Road, Davis, Crestwood, Matoaca and Spring Run — are piloting something new for this national program: collecting student data to see how Fuel Up to Play 60 improves health and fitness throughout the school year.

Contact: 748-1405

Exercise

As part of the Fuel Up to Play 60, Spring Run Elementary will have a 20-minute morning exercise/activity each Monday and Friday 7:50-8:10 a.m.

Contact: 639-6352

Business and Community Resource Bank

The Business and Community Resource Bank offers an easy way to make a difference in schools by connecting people willing to share their knowledge with teachers who need classroom speakers or volunteers. Whether a community member would like to speak about his area of expertise, participate in a career day or mentor a student, the resource bank can make the connection with a school. To participate, fill out the resource bank survey at mychesterfieldschools.com.

Contact: 748-1405

Mileage Club

Greenfield Elementary’s Mileage Club will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Contact: Jennie Raugh, 560-2720

Mentors

Hening Elementary’s Shooting Stars mentoring program is entering its fourth year. The program matches students with staff mentors. Shooting Stars receives support from the Virginia Mentoring Partnership Organization through VCU.

Contact: Kitten Gilmore, 743-3655

Lunch wishes

At Hening Elementary, the Lunch Lady Program helps students who cannot pay for lunch. It is funded by contributions from the PTA, parents, staff members and community. Last year, more than 2,100 lunches were covered.

Contact: 743-3655

Book group

Providence Middle teachers are setting a great example for students: They are increasing their vocabulary by participating in Teachers R Reading book group.

Contact: 674-1355

Volunteers

Volunteer readers from Enterprise Holdings read to second- and third-grade students at Hening Elementary on most Wednesdays.

Contact: Bethany Dancey, 743-3655

Free supplies for school employees

From Crayons to Computers is packed with donated school and office supplies to be given away. Located in the Spring Rock Green shopping center at 7138 Midlothian Turnpike, the store is open to all Chesterfield County Public Schools employees 2:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when school is in session. Donations are welcome and are tax-deductible.

Contact: 276-7407 or 305-4279