Middle Division Notes

MD Notes Archive

List of 33 items.

April 13

Dear Middle Division Families,

We had a great day on Friday, and the weather cooperated beautifully for all our Immersion Day activities! Classroom and academic engagement is our priority, and it’s always a good thing when we have the chance to build community with our students on these days.

We started our eighth grade speeches this past week, and it’s been such a delight to hear our students reflect on their growth as young people in our division. I wanted to share some initial words of wisdom from these first speeches:

“Sometimes, the real problem isn’t the mistake, it’s what we tell ourselves about the mistake. I realized that failure itself wasn’t what was holding me back, it was my fear of it.”

“I am so critical of myself. I am so mean to myself. And, I would never be as mean to anyone else as I am to myself when I slip up.”

“Some days, we get good grades, compliments from our friends and teachers, and make the game winning 3-pointer. Other days, we struggle to pay attention, we are teased by friends, and miss every shot. We just have to find a way to live with it, because sometimes, there is just no way to stop these days from coming. They just happen and we have to adapt to it one way or another. In order to face hard things, we have to be in the right headspace. Only then can we accomplish our hard dreams.”

“For many years at school, I often felt like I was putting on a cloak to fit in. But I have realized that I am more than what people think about me. My true friends, both at camp and at school, have found me without me changing myself.”

There are many reasons to love working in a Middle Division. That kids are at their most miraculous and messy all at the same time is certainly one of them.

Lastly, CONGRATULATIONS to all our wonderful actors who took to the stage to bring Frozen, Jr to life. Bringing a production from script to stage is indeed messy and miraculous, and I’m so proud of all of them!

In this together,

Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org
April 6
Dear Middle Division Families,

This Friday, April 11, is Immersion Day. The primary focus of the day's activities is centered around Earth Day themes. Fifth grade will remain on campus for a water ecology and fishing lesson, sixth grade will travel to Lake Arcadia to participate in an annual lake clean-up competition with other schools around the country, seventh grade is partnering with first grade for on-campus activities, and eighth grade students will make their annual visit to Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum. It is a half day, and students will be ready for pickup at 12:00 p.m.

Note to Eighth Grade Families
Given the distance to the Memorial and the program for their visit, your students will be returning to campus closer to 12:15 p.m.

Frozen, Jr.
Additionally, this week we look forward to watching our Middle Division actors in Frozen, Jr! As a former theater kid, I know very well the bravery, energy, time, hard work, and dedication it takes to put on these types of productions, and I hope that we can pack the house each night to support our students as they tell the story of Anna and Elsa.
In this together,

Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org

Eighth Grade Group Photo
On Monday, April 14, the eighth grade will take their class photo for the yearbook. Forms will be given to your students on Monday, March 31, for optional purchasing of the class photo. Students are expected to be in proper Casady attire. We will ask students to remove their hoodies and jackets; we appreciate your help in making sure that they come appropriately dressed!

A Note for Sixth Grade Families
Next year, your student will participate in our competitive athletics, performing arts, and club programs. To do so, they must maintain academic eligibility, which is maintaining a minimum average of 60% in all classes. Each week, Mr. Staats reviews grades and talks with each student on the Eligibility list. Additionally, we send an Official Note communicating their status should they be On Probation or Ineligible.

As part of our work to prepare them for seventh grade, we will start this practice next week with your students. Please note that this is just a practice run through, and academic eligibility will not affect them for the remainder of their sixth grade year. Thank you for your continued support, and should you have any questions, please reach out to the front office.

Seventh Grade Trip to Tulsa
On Thursday, April 17, seventh graders will travel to Tulsa for a full day of activities. Our visit will include a tour of the Outsider’s House Museum (as a culmination of their book study in English), time at Gathering Place (Tulsa’s interactive riverfront park), and lunch at Mother Road Market (supporting entrepreneurs and local vendors). Students should arrive at the regular time. Buses will depart promptly at 8:15 a.m. and return to campus around 3:15 p.m. Those students who are playing soccer will go directly to Bennett to prepare for their afternoon games. Students should bring no more than $30 for lunch and shopping at Mother Road Market or Outsider’s House Museum gift shop.

Collect for the Fifth Week of Lent, April 6
Almighty God, you alone can bring into order the unruly wills and affections of sinners: Grant your people grace to love what you command and desire what you promise; that, among the swift and varied changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Carpool Reminders
Thank you for adhering to these community guidelines.
Students may not cross the road to play basketball during carpool or after school.
Please follow the directions of teachers, administrators, and security.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning.
Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Regardless of the weather, pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the Cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Wear
Please remind your student compliance with the dress code is expected. Tops worn with leggings should be long enough to reach fingertip length.

This Week in Soulcraft
SoulCraft has wrapped for the year! We will spend the following Wednesdays together listening to eighth grade speeches. Throughout this school year, your student heard and discussed various ways to manage their emotions, making their goals specific, learning about emotional intelligence and resilience, and creating a culture of belonging, just to name a few. For additional information on fostering social-emotional well-being at home, check out the following resources:
Parent Teen Connect
Dr. Lisa Damour
ACT Knowledge Hub

Christian Baptism and Confirmation at Casady
Casady is a church-based school, and we recognize that some of our families hold Casady as the source for their student's Christian spiritual formation. Because of this, an extracurricular class is offered on Wednesday mornings at 8:00 a.m. during the season of Lent for any students in seventh-12th grade who are interested or inquiring about Christian baptism or confirmation.

This will occur at the Saturday night Easter Vigil at the Episcopal Cathedral on April 19. Classes are Wednesdays at 8:00 a.m. in Middle Division BibleLand. The first one occurred on March 5.

Contact Fr. Youmans at youmansts@casady.org.

These Lenten Season preparation classes continue:
April 9 - What does being a “follower of Jesus” mean?
April 16 - Baptism and Confirmation Service - What to expect.
March 30
Dear Middle Division Families,

Welcome to April! As the days grow longer and the weather begins to warm, we find ourselves in the final stretch of the school year. For many of us, this month marks the beginning of the “sprint to the finish line,” and we want to assure you that your students are well-supported during this time. Here is what you can expect in the coming weeks:

Academic Focus: Teachers will begin reinforcing key concepts and skills for upcoming assessments and final projects. Whether they be showcase or finals, the prep work begins now.
Spring Activities and Events: We have many events coming up this month, from the MD Musical to band and orchestra performances to Spring Fling to Immersion Day. We are excited to showcase our students and cannot wait to see them in action!
Open Communication: As always, we encourage open communication between parents and teachers. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns.

We recognize that this time of year can be busy. It is. That said, we are committed to making these final months both productive and enjoyable for our students. As always, thank you for your continued partnership and support.
In this together,

Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org

Eighth Grade Group Photo
On Monday, April 14, the eighth grade will take their class photo for the yearbook. Forms will be given to your students on Monday, March 31, for optional purchasing of the class photo. Students are expected to be in proper Casady attire. We will ask students to remove their hoodies and jackets; we appreciate your help in making sure that they come appropriately dressed!

A Note for Sixth Grade Families
Next year, your student will participate in our competitive athletics, performing arts, and club programs. To do so, they must maintain academic eligibility, which is maintaining a minimum average of 60% in all classes. Each week, Mr. Staats reviews grades and talks with each student on the Eligibility list. Additionally, we send an Official Note communicating their status should they be On Probation or Ineligible.

As part of our work to prepare them for seventh grade, we will start this practice next week with your students. Please note that this is just a practice run through, and academic eligibility will not affect them for the remainder of their sixth grade year. Thank you for your continued support, and should you have any questions, please reach out to the front office.

Christian Baptism and Confirmation at Casady
Casady is a church-based school, and we recognize that some of our families hold Casady as the source for their student's Christian spiritual formation. Because of this, an extracurricular class is offered on Wednesday mornings at 8:00 a.m. during the season of Lent for any students in seventh-12th grade who are interested or inquiring about Christian baptism or confirmation.

This will occur at the Saturday night Easter Vigil at the Episcopal Cathedral on April 19. Classes are Wednesdays at 8:00 a.m. in Middle Division BibleLand. The first one occurred on March 5.

Contact Fr. Youmans at youmansts@casady.org.

These Lenten Season preparation classes continue:
April 9 - What does being a “follower of Jesus” mean?
April 16 - Baptism and Confirmation Service - What to expect.
Collect for the Fourth Week of Lent
Gracious Father, whose blessed Son Jesus Christ came down from heaven to be the true bread which gives life to the world: Evermore give us this bread, that he may live in us, and we in him; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Carpool Reminders
Thank you for adhering to these community guidelines.
Students may not cross the road to play basketball during carpool or after school.
Please follow the directions of teachers, administrators, and security.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning.
Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Regardless of the weather, pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the Cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Wear
Please remind your student compliance with the dress code is expected. Tops worn with leggings should be long enough to reach fingertip length.

This Week in Soulcraft
This is our last SoulCraft for the school year. We are so grateful for all the lessons and conversations that we had in SoulCraft this year! We hope that your student learned new strategies and tools to help grow and navigate their relationships with family and friends!

Fifth and Sixth Grade: Making Amends
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn ways to make amends and restore a relationship they may have harmed.
Question: Tell your student about a time you had to make amends with someone. What did you do to repair the harm?
Seventh and Eighth Grade: Middle School Friendships
Summary: In this week’s lesson, we’ll be discussing healthy friendships and how we nurture these relationships. We will also talk about how friendships grow, change, and sometimes end even when it is no one’s fault (which is part of evolving and growing up/growing apart).
Conversation Starter: Are you still friends with anyone you knew in middle school? What helps you maintain your friendships? What friendships have changed or grown apart?
March 24
Dear Middle Division Families,

Welcome Back! I hope you had a wonderful Spring Break full of as much or as little activity as you wanted. As you know, the eighth grade spent four days in Washington D.C. the week before the break for our new signature program, and we packed all kinds of activities into our time. Across our capital city, the story of our country, its founding ideals, its values, its heroes, and its memories are preserved and honored in its architecture, monuments, and public spaces. We visited the Capitol, the Supreme Court, and the National Archives and reflected on the privileges and responsibilities of our democracy. We explored how we remember and preserve meaning while visiting the monuments of the National Mall, the Smithsonian Museums, and the National Portrait Gallery. We also became adept travelers of the metro system and took in a show at the Kennedy Center! Hopefully, these experiences will form part of our students’ story of themselves and inspire them to continue exploring and engaging in what it means to live their story in the midst of the American story!

Looking ahead, it’s hard to believe, but we have nine weeks of school left until Summer Break. The remaining weeks are filled with exciting events and important work. The sunshine and looming promise of summer might tempt our students to wish these days away or forget the skills and discipline that they have spent the year practicing. I encourage them to remember that the effort of discipline is almost always preferable to the frustration of regret.

We look forward to seeing everyone bright and early tomorrow!
In this together,

Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org

Seventh and Eighth Grade French Students
This note is to share that Mme Vincent-Diaz is on maternity leave for the remainder of the year. We are pleased to share that Julie Tubb, a regular substitute and familiar face in our building, will serve as Mme Vincent-Diaz’s long-term substitute. To prepare for this role, Mrs. Tubb has spent time collaborating and shadowing Mme Vincent-Diaz, meeting many of your students, and gaining valuable insight into the daily rhythm of the seventh and eighth grade French classroom.

Mme Tubb has a bachelor's degree in English with a minor in French and a Master’s in Secondary Education from the University of Oklahoma. She lived and studied in France and is eager to share her love of French culture and language with your students. She has taught Middle School English at Hefner Middle School and tutored privately. Some of you may remember that she served as our long-term substitute French teacher in 2020, and most recently, she has provided support as our substitute Learning Specialist while Mrs. Oden has been on maternity leave. Lastly, Mme Tubb is the parent of a 2024 Casady graduate!

Mme Tubb looks forward to getting to know your students and supporting their good work. I know you join me in saying “Félicitations!” for Mme Vincent-Diaz as she steps away to spend time with her family and adjust to her new life. We’ll look forward to having her back with us in August.

Christian Baptism and Confirmation at Casady
Casady is a church-based school, and we recognize that some of our families hold Casady as the source for their student's Christian spiritual formation. Because of this, an extracurricular class will be offered on Wednesday mornings at 8:00 a.m. during the season of Lent for any students in seventh-12th grade who are interested or inquiring about Christian baptism or confirmation.

This will occur at the Saturday night Easter Vigil at the Episcopal Cathedral on April 19. Classes are Wednesdays at 8:00 a.m. in Middle Division BibleLand. The first one occurred on March 5.

Contact Fr. Youmans at youmansts@casady.org.

These Lenten Season preparation classes continue:
March 26 - Meaning of Jesus' Death and Resurrection.
April 9 - What does being a “follower of Jesus” mean?
April 16 - Baptism and Confirmation Service - What to expect.
Collect for the Third Week of Lent
Almighty God, you know that we have no power in ourselves to help ourselves: Keep us both outwardly in our bodies and inwardly in our souls, that we may be defended from all adversities which may happen to the body, and from all evil thoughts which may assault and hurt the soul; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Carpool Reminders
Thank you for adhering to these community guidelines.
Students may not cross the road to play basketball during carpool or after school.
Please follow the directions of teachers, administrators, and security.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning.
Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Regardless of the weather, pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the Cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Wear
Please remind your student compliance with the dress code is expected. Tops worn with leggings should be long enough to reach fingertip length.

This Week in Soulcraft
Fifth and Sixth Grade: Resolving Challenging Conflicts
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will think through different ways to resolve a conflict and choose the one they think is best.
Question: Ask your student why they think different conflicts need different solutions. Tell your student about a time when you had to think about the best way to solve a conflict. What did you think about? Did it work out in the end?
Seventh and Eighth Grade: Healthy Boundaries
Summary: What does it mean to have healthy boundaries? How do we decide those for ourselves, and how do we demonstrate them to friends and peers?
Conversation Starter: Ask your student what he or she learned about “red flags” and “green flags” in our SoulCraft discussion about boundaries. How do you define and protect your boundaries?
March 16
Dear Middle Division Families,

We so enjoyed hosting and meeting all the grandfriends who came to visit us last week! These opportunities to connect with our wider Casady Community are so important, and I hope that they got a good picture of all the many wonderful things that happen here in Middle Division.

Speaking of a wonderful thing, on Tuesday, Mr. Staats and I, along with the eighth grade teaching team, are headed out with this eighth grade class on our Inaugural Eighth Grade Washington, D.C. Trip! This has been under construction for a couple of years, and we are so excited to get started. Experiential education is formative, and we have intentionally designed it to expand and enrich the curricular strands of the eighth grade program. Additionally, we hope the memories made will further knit this group of students together and serve as an exciting capstone to their Middle Division experience. We will be out of the office Tuesday through Friday. Dr. Scheer, who was Middle Division Director before me, will be stepping back in to hold down the fort in our absence!

Lastly, please remember that course forms are due to your student’s advisor by this Friday, March 14. Amazingly, it’s time to start looking toward next year's scheduling needs and parameters. Where does the time go?

We hope you have a wonderful Spring Break, and we’ll look forward to seeing everyone bright and early on Tuesday, March 25.
In this together,

Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org

Planning Trips Spring Break
This is a reminder that Spring Break starts at the end of the day on March 14 and lasts through March 24. We ask that you plan your holiday trips within the calendared breaks. Parents, please anticipate that your students will have extra work should you choose to plan trips outside of our calendared breaks. These absences can be detrimental not only to their grades but also, and more importantly, to their overall understanding of the knowledge and skills that we are teaching and practicing.

Christian Baptism and Confirmation at Casady
Casady is a church-based school, and we recognize that some of our families hold Casady as the source for their student's Christian spiritual formation. Because of this, an extracurricular class will be offered on Wednesday mornings at 8:00 a.m. during the season of Lent for any students in seventh-12th grade who are interested or inquiring about Christian baptism or confirmation.

This will occur at the Saturday night Easter Vigil at the Episcopal Cathedral on April 19. Classes are Wednesdays at 8:00 a.m. in Middle Division BibleLand. The first one occurred on March 5.

Contact Fr. Youmans at youmansts@casady.org.

These Lenten Season preparation classes continue:
March 12 - Who is Jesus to a Christian?
March 26 - Meaning of Jesus' Death and Resurrection.
April 9 - What does being a “follower of Jesus” mean?
April 16 - Baptism and Confirmation Service - What to expect.
Collect for the Week
Almighty God, whose blessed Son was led by the Spirit to be tempted by Satan: Come quickly to help us who are assaulted by many temptations; and, as you know the weaknesses of each of us, let each one find you mighty to save; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Carpool Reminders
Thank you for adhering to these community guidelines.
Students may not cross the road to play basketball during carpool or after school.
Please follow the directions of teachers, administrators, and security.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning.
Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Regardless of the weather, pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Wear
Please remind your student compliance with the dress code is expected. Tops worn with leggings should be long enough to reach fingertip length.

This Week in Soulcraft
Fifth and Sixth Grade: Respectful Communication
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will practice using non-blaming language to resolve conflicts.
Home Extension: Ask your student for an example of non-blaming, respectful communication. Brainstorm with them a time in your household when non-blaming language could have been helpful and practice how you might use respectful communication in the future.
Seventh and Eighth Grade: Emotions Matter
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn how their brain handles strong emotions and brainstorm positive and negative decisions they might make when they feel a strong emotion.
Home Extension: Ask your student to explain the difference between an emotion and a thought. Take turns expressing sentiments aloud and having the other person identify if the sentiments are thoughts or emotions. For example, Emotion: “I’m so mad at the coach for not putting me in the game.” Thought: “That’s it—I quit!”
March 9
March 2
Dear Middle Division Families,

Thank you for taking the time to attend our student-led conferences. One of our many goals in Middle Division is to help our students find and cultivate their voice and agency as the “main character” in their personal stories. These conferences, where we ask the student to lead the discussion, are one of the ways we seek to practice and encourage student confidence, responsibility, and communicate to them how important it is that they have a sense of ownership and engagement in their educational journey. They worked hard in preparation, and your participation and support are essential to their success. We hope that the shared time with your student and their advisor was informative and helpful in understanding their progress and school day experience. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your student’s teachers or advisor.

Lastly, a lot is coming up in the next few weeks; please take a moment to review the details below.
In this together,

Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org

A Note from UD Director Mr. Addington to Rising Ninth Grade Families
Dear families,

We are excited to meet with you and your student this Tuesday, March 4, to sign up for next year’s classes. In anticipation of that night, you will find below several documents to explore. You do not need to print any of these out or bring them on Tuesday. We will provide everything you need. Some of these choices may require some explanation, and there are unique programs like debate and publications. We will take time to explain these and have further information available.
Curriculum Guide - contains all classes offered at Casady next year with descriptions.
Four year planning document - helps you think about the complete UD program.
List of freshman courses - enumerates courses open to freshmen.
Mock “ticket” - mimics the document we will use that evening to sign up for courses.
We look forward to seeing you next Tuesday! We start in The Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor at 6:30 p.m.

A Note from the Athletic Department for our Rising Seventh Grade Families
The Athletic Department would like to invite the parents of rising seventh graders to join them for an information session on March 4 at 8:00 a.m. in Perri Conference Center. Please click here for more details.

Grandparents’ and Grandfriends’ Day
Grandparents’ and Grandfriends’ Day 2025 is scheduled for March 6 for Middle Division and Kindergarten and March 7 for Pre-K and Lower Division. Invitations were mailed at the end of January. Please contact Jennifer Homsey ’00 at 405-749-3162 with questions.

Planning Trips Spring Break
This is a reminder that Spring Break starts at the end of the day on March 14 and lasts through March 24. We ask that you plan your holiday trips within the calendared breaks. Parents, please anticipate that your students will have extra work should you choose to plan trips outside of our calendared breaks. These absences can be detrimental not only to their grades but also, and more importantly, to their overall understanding of the knowledge and skills that we are teaching and practicing.

Scholastic Book Fair
The annual Scholastic Book Fair is almost here! For convenience, families can choose to let their students book bill purchases at the fair. To give your student permission, click here. To make record keeping easier, please fill out a separate form for each student in your family.

For special requests, please email me freelandm@casady.org.

Christian Baptism and Confirmation at Casady
Casady is a church-based school, and we recognize that some of our families hold Casady as the source for their student's Christian spiritual formation. Because of this, an extracurricular class will be offered on Wednesday mornings at 8:00 a.m. during the season of Lent for any students in seventh-12th grade who are interested or inquiring about Christian baptism or confirmation.

This will occur at the Saturday night Easter Vigil at the Episcopal Cathedral on April 19. Classes begin March 5 at 8:00 a.m. in Middle Division BibleLand.

Contact Fr. Youmans at youmansts@casady.org.

These Lenten Season preparation classes are as follows:
March 5 - What is Baptism and Confirmation?
March 12 - Who is Jesus to a Christian?
March 26 - Meaning of Jesus' Death and Resurrection.
April 9 - What does being a “follower of Jesus” mean?
April 16 - Baptism and Confirmation Service - What to expect.
Collect for the Week
O God, who before the passion of your only begotten Son revealed his glory upon the holy mountain: Grant to us that we, beholding by faith the light of his countenance, may be strengthened to bear our cross, and be changed into his likeness from glory to glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Carpool Reminders
Thank you for adhering to these community guidelines.
Students may not cross the road to play basketball during carpool or after school
Please follow the directions of teachers, administrators, and security.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning.
Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Regardless of the weather, pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Wear
Please remind your student compliance with the dress code is expected. Tops worn with leggings should be long enough to reach fingertip length.

This Week in Soulcraft
Our Middle Division Heroes In Waiting assembly was rescheduled for Wednesday, March 12.

This Wednesday, all Middle Division students will be together for our Ash Wednesday chapel.
February 21
Dear Middle Division Families,

My goodness, what a week we had last week! The teachers and I look forward to a more “normal” pace this week with your students. As we update project and assessment timelines, we are working with your students to practice the good and necessary executive functioning skills of task prioritization and completion, time management, self-advocacy, and organization!

We look forward to seeing you all this Friday, Feb. 28, for conferences. Please remember that your students will be leading these meetings as we reflect on their work in progress this year. We’ll also be sharing the Middle Division Curriculum Guide for the 2025-26 school year and course registration forms at that time. If you have not yet scheduled a conference time, please reach out to your student’s advisor.
In this together,

Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org

Scholastic Book Fair
The annual Scholastic Book Fair is almost here! For convenience, families can choose to let their students book bill purchases at the fair. To give your student permission, click here. To make record keeping easier, please fill out a separate form for each student in your family.

For special requests, please email me freelandm@casady.org.

A Note for Eighth Grade Students
Upper Division is excited to welcome all rising ninth graders to our annual Life on the Other Side of the Lake on Wednesday, Feb. 26. Please note the program starts at 8:00 a.m. even though it’s Wednesday. Members of Upper Division Administration and Student Council will meet your students at 8:00 a.m. in the eighth grade and will accompany them to the UD lakeside!

Sixth Grade Field Trip
On Feb. 26, sixth grade students will attend the Oklahoma City Blue Field Trip Day at Paycom Center, enjoying a basketball game along with STEM-focused lessons and live demonstrations presented by Science Museum Oklahoma.

Christian Baptism and Confirmation at Casady
Casady is a church-based school, and we recognize that some of our families hold Casady as the source for their student's Christian spiritual formation. Because of this, an extracurricular class will be offered on Wednesday mornings at 8:00 a.m. during the season of Lent for any students in seventh-12th grade who are interested or inquiring about Christian baptism or confirmation.

This will occur at the Saturday night Easter Vigil at the Episcopal Cathedral on April 19. Classes begin March 5 at 8:00 a.m. in Middle Division BibleLand.

Contact Fr. Youmans at youmansts@casady.org.

These Lenten Season preparation classes are as follows:
March 5 - What is Baptism and Confirmation?
March 12 - Who is Jesus to a Christian?
March 26 - Meaning of Jesus' Death and Resurrection.
April 9 - What does being a “follower of Jesus” mean?
April 16 - Baptism and Confirmation Service - What to expect.

Planning Trips Spring Break
This is a reminder that Spring Break starts at the end of the day on March 14 and lasts through March 24. We ask that you plan your holiday trips within the calendared breaks. Parents, please anticipate that your students will have extra work should you choose to plan trips outside of our calendared breaks. These absences can be detrimental not only to their grades but also, and more importantly, to their overall understanding of the knowledge and skills that we are teaching and practicing.

Casady CGSAA Spring Soccer for Fifth and Sixth Grade
Sign-up ends Thursday, Feb. 20.
Register by clicking here.

There will be a $50 book bill sign-up fee for each student, plus $35 for the jersey. We ask that all players play in blue shorts. Players will need cleats and shin guards.

Practices will take place at Casady once a week beginning the week of Feb. 24. As we get closer to the season we will know the day of the week and time for the practices. Teams will be co-ed by grade level; if we need to combine grade levels, the team will play up to the older grade. The league games will be played on Saturdays, likely two games each Saturday, starting March 8 and will go through mid-May.

If you have any questions, please contact Assistant Athletic Director for Middle Division Ann Palms.

A Note from the Student Support Services Department
Student Support Services is excited to collaborate with highly respected local therapist Deanna James, LPC, for our upcoming Parent Connection Night. Deanna will share her expertise and help families cultivate a positive and healthy approach to food, eating disorders, body image, family dynamics, and self-esteem. In today’s world of conflicting messages about health, diet culture, and social media influences, it can be challenging to navigate how to best support students in developing confidence and balance in their relationships with food and their bodies. This session is ideal for parents and caregivers in any Division who want to build a foundation of trust and understanding with their students while promoting lifelong well-being.

*Deanna will be speaking to our seventh and eighth grade students during Chapel on Feb. 25.

Spring 2025 Athletics for Rising Seventh Graders
Casady Athletic Department would like to invite the parents of rising seventh graders to join them for an information session on March 4 at 8:00 a.m. in Perri Conference Center. Please click here for more details.

Rising Ninth Grade Course Registration
March 4
6:30-7:30 p.m.
The Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor

Upper Division is pleased to welcome rising ninth grade students and their families to the other side of the lake to register for next year’s classes. We will begin with a presentation in the Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor, followed by small group registration sessions. In February, we will supplement this event with tools and resources for you to become familiar with your options before coming to campus. We are excited to meet the class of 2029!

Grandparents’ and Grandfriends’ Day
Grandparents’ and Grandfriends’ Day 2025 is scheduled for March 6 for Middle Division and Kindergarten and March 7 for Pre-K and Lower Division. Invitations were mailed at the end of January. Please contact Jennifer Homsey ’00 at 405-749-3162 with questions.

Collect for the Week
O Lord, you have taught us that without love, whatever we do is worth nothing: Send your Holy Spirit and pour into our hearts your greatest gift, which is love, the true bond of peace and of all virtue, without which whoever lives is accounted dead before you. Grant this for the sake of your only Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Carpool Reminders
Thank you for adhering to these community guidelines.
Students may not cross the road to play basketball during carpool or after school
Please follow the directions of teachers, administrators, and security.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning.
Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Regardless of the weather, pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Privilege Dress
Please remind your student compliance with the dress code is expected. Tops worn with leggings should be long enough to reach fingertip length.
Friday - Conference Day, No School

This Week in Soulcraft
This Wednesday, Feb. 26, we are pleased to bring Heroes In Waiting back to Casady to present to the entire Middle Division! Led by Oklahoma State University game day emcee Les Thomas, these assemblies teach students the importance of being themselves, respecting others, speaking up for their friends, and creating a culture of support and acceptance.
February 17
Dear Middle Division Families,

I hope this finds you well and warm after a restful long weekend!

As usual, I was listening to Dr. Damour’s podcast the other day, and she talked about how she’s updated her book, "Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions Into Adulthood" to include guidance on new parenting challenges such as AI technology and vaping. Many of you have likely heard me reference one of my favorite parenting metaphors -- the idea that we are like swimming pools for our students and the water they swim in the wider world. In this metaphor, we are the walls they cling to when learning to swim, needing a rest, or venturing into the deep end. As they move into adolescence, this means we’re increasingly, also, the walls they push against when feeling bold, practicing independence, or gaining confidence. Dr. Damour describes this parenting in this space as “emotional whiplash,” as our students vacillate between wanting and needing our help and then pushing us away to focus on and follow friends and their larger social sphere. Sometimes these “shoves” can take the form of poor choices with school work, disrespect at home, or inexplicable moods. To take the metaphor further, it can be tempting to try to keep them protected in the shallow end or to pull away when their pushes are confusing or disrespectful, but Damour reminds us that, “[your children] need a wall to swim to, and [they] need you to be a wall that can withstand [their] comings and goings.”

In other news, we look forward to seeing you all next Friday, Feb. 28, for conferences. Please remember that your students will be leading these as we reflect on their work in progress this year. We’ll also be sharing the Middle Division Curriculum Guide for the 2025-26 school year and course registration forms at that time. If you have not yet scheduled a conference time, please reach out to your student’s advisor.
In this together,

Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org

A Note for Eighth Graders - Date Change
Upper Division was originally looking forward to welcoming all rising ninth graders to the annual Life on the Other Side of the Lake last Wednesday. This event has been rescheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 26. Please note the program starts at 8:00 a.m., even though it’s Wednesday. Members of Upper Division Administration and Student Council will meet your students at 8:00 a.m. in the eighth grade pod and will accompany them to the Upper Division side of the lake!

Christian Baptism and Confirmation at Casady
Casady is a church-based school, and we recognize that some of our families hold Casady as the source for their student's Christian spiritual formation. Because of this, an extracurricular class will be offered on Wednesday mornings at 8:00 a.m. during the season of Lent for any students in seventh-12th grade who are interested or inquiring about Christian baptism or confirmation.

This will occur at the Saturday night Easter Vigil at the Episcopal Cathedral on April 19. Classes begin March 5 at 8:00 a.m. in Middle Division BibleLand.

Contact Fr. Youmans at youmansts@casady.org.

These Lenten Season preparation classes are as follows:
March 5 - What is Baptism and Confirmation?
March 12 - Who is Jesus to a Christian?
March 26 - Meaning of Jesus' Death and Resurrection.
April 9 - What does being a “follower of Jesus” mean?
April 16 - Baptism and Confirmation Service - What to expect.

Two MyCasady Reminders
When navigating MyCasady, please remember that you can find your student’s “Missing Work” list by navigating to the “Assignments” tab. If they have missing assignments, there will be a red notification tab that says, “Missing Assignments.” Know that we are having conversations with your students about their responsibilities, and we appreciate you doing the same! The other good reminder is that since we are in Spring Semester when you navigate to your student’s “Progress” tab, you need to be sure to click the “Spring Semester” tab (it will be gray if it’s active) so that you see your student’s progress in the Spring Semester.

Planning Trips Spring Break
This is a reminder that Spring Break starts at the end of the day on March 14 and lasts through March 24. We ask that you plan your holiday trips within the calendared breaks. Parents, please anticipate that your students will have extra work should you choose to plan trips outside of our calendared breaks. These absences can be detrimental not only to their grades but also, and more importantly, to their overall understanding of the knowledge and skills that we are teaching and practicing.

Casady CGSAA Spring Soccer for Fifth and Sixth Grade
Sign-up ends Thursday, Feb. 20.
Register by clicking here.

There will be a $50 book bill sign-up fee for each student, plus $35 for the jersey. We ask that all players play in blue shorts. Players will need cleats and shin guards.

Practices will take place at Casady once a week beginning the week of Feb. 24. As we get closer to the season we will know the day of the week and time for the practices. Teams will be co-ed by grade level; if we need to combine grade levels, the team will play up to the older grade. The league games will be played on Saturdays, likely two games each Saturday, starting March 8 and will go through mid-May.

If you have any questions, please contact Assistant Athletic Director for Middle Division Ann Palms.

Sixth Grade Field Trip, Feb. 26
On Feb. 26, sixth grade students will attend the Oklahoma City Blue Field Trip Day at Paycom Center, enjoying a basketball game along with STEM-focused lessons and live demonstrations presented by Science Museum Oklahoma.

A Note from the Student Support Services Department
Student Support Services is excited to collaborate with highly respected local therapist Deanna James, LPC, for our upcoming Parent Connection Night. Deanna will share her expertise and help families cultivate a positive and healthy approach to food, eating disorders, body image, family dynamics, and self-esteem. In today’s world of conflicting messages about health, diet culture, and social media influences, it can be challenging to navigate how to best support students in developing confidence and balance in their relationships with food and their bodies. This session is ideal for parents and caregivers in any Division who want to build a foundation of trust and understanding with their students while promoting lifelong well-being. Google Meet link to follow in upcoming Division Notes.

*Deanna will be speaking to our seventh and eighth grade students during Chapel on Feb. 25.

Rising Ninth Grade Course Registration
March 4
6:30-7:30 p.m.
The Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor

Upper Division is pleased to welcome rising ninth grade students and their families to the other side of the lake to register for next year’s classes. We will begin with a presentation in the Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor, followed by small group registration sessions. In February, we will supplement this event with tools and resources for you to become familiar with your options before coming to campus. We are excited to meet the class of 2029!

It’s a GRAND Day!
Grandparents’ and Grandfriends’ Day 2025 is scheduled for March 6 for Middle Division and Kindergarten and March 7 for Pre-K and Lower Division. Invitations were mailed at the end of January. Please contact Jennifer Homsey ’00 at 405-749-3162 with questions.

Collect for the Week
O God, the strength of all who put their trust in you: Mercifully accept our prayers; and because in our weakness we can do nothing good without you, give us the help of your grace, that in keeping your commandments we may please you both in will and deed; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Carpool Reminders
Thank you for adhering to these community guidelines.
Students may not cross the road to play basketball during carpool or after school
Please follow the directions of teachers, administrators, and security.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning.
Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Regardless of the weather, pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Day

This Week in Soulcraft
Fifth and Sixth Grade - Respectful Communication
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will practice using non-blaming language to resolve conflicts.
Question: Ask your student to give you an example of non-blaming, respectful communication. Brainstorm with them to think of a time in your household when non-blaming language could have been helpful and make a plan for how to use respectful communication in the future.
Seventh and Eighth Grade - Emotions Matter
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn how their brain handles strong emotions and brainstorm positive and negative decisions they might make when they feel a strong emotion.
Question: Ask your student to explain the difference between an emotion and a thought. Take turns expressing sentiments aloud and having the other person identify if the sentiments are thoughts or emotions. For example, Emotion: “I’m so mad at the coach for not putting me in the game.” Thought: “That’s it—I quit!”
February 9
Dear Middle Division Families,

This is the season when we often start to see the absent, tardy, or early checkout list start to grow. Our program is intentionally designed to engage students in active learning and collaboration, so when students miss school, for whatever reason, catching up after an absence can be challenging and requires organization, extra time, planning, and communication. These are important skills that don’t activate automatically, and our teachers work with your students to help them develop a plan and keep track of their responsibilities. You can help us at home by regularly reviewing MyCasady, in particular, the “Missing Work” list, with your student, reminding them to reach out and talk to their teachers, and maintaining a regular schedule with quiet, uncluttered time for them to focus on completing their assignments. It’s reasonable for students to have a period of short-term stress while they are catching up, and we can best help them by normalizing that feeling, offering organizational advice, and encouraging them to communicate with their teachers. As we look towards the second half of the Spring term, and Mid-Winter Break and Spring Break in particular, please make every effort to have your students in school, on time, and for the whole day.

We’re noticing that students are across the street or playing basketball after school and during carpool. Please remember that this side of the campus road is closed during these times as the faculty and security staff on duty cannot adequately supervise those students during this time. Middle Division students should be actively looking for their rides or moving towards aftercare. Additionally, we have had a couple of instances with younger siblings running into the circle during active carpool. This is a safety issue and of the utmost importance to us. If you are parked in the circle waiting for your Middle Division student, please remain with your car. For walk-up parents, please ensure that your students are only playing on the lake lawn and obey the directions of the security or faculty who are monitoring the crosswalk.

Thank you for your partnership as we work to support all the students in our care!

Enjoy your long Mid-Winter weekend!

In this together,

Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org

Note to Eighth Graders
Upper Division is looking forward to welcoming all rising ninth graders to our annual Life on the Other Side this Wednesday, Feb. 12. Please note the program starts at 8:00 a.m. (even though it’s Wednesday). Members of Upper Division Administration and Student Council will meet your students at 8:00 a.m. in the eighth grade pod in McClendon Middle Division and will accompany them to the UD lakeside!

Two MyCasady Reminders
When navigating MyCasady, please remember that you can find your student’s “Missing Work” list by navigating to the “Assignments” tab. If they have missing assignments, there will be a red notification tab that says, “Missing Assignments.” Know that we are having conversations with your students about their responsibilities, and we appreciate you doing the same! The other good reminder is that since we are in Spring Semester when you navigate to your student’s “Progress” tab, you need to be sure to click the “Spring Semester” tab (it will be gray if it’s active) so that you see your student’s progress in the Spring Semester.

Planning Trips for Mid-Winter Break and Spring Break
This is a reminder that school will continue through the end of the day on Thursday, Feb. 13, and begin again, bright and early, on Tuesday, Feb. 18. Additionally, Spring Break starts at the end of the day, March 14, and lasts through Monday, March 24. We ask that you plan your holiday trips within the calendared breaks.

Casady Spring Soccer Fifth and Sixth Grade CGSAA
We are excited to offer spring soccer this year as an extracurricular activity.

There will be a $50 book bill sign-up fee for each student, plus $35 for the jersey. We ask that all players play in blue shorts. Players will need cleats and shin guards.

Practices will take place at Casady once a week beginning the week of Feb. 24. As we get closer to the season we will know the day of the week and time for the practices. Teams will be co-ed by grade level; if we need to combine grade levels, the team will play up to the older grade. The league games will be played on Saturdays, likely two games each Saturday, starting March 8 and will go through mid-May.

If you have any questions, please contact Assistant Athletic Director for Middle Division Ann Palms.

Sign-up ends Thursday, Feb. 20. Click here to register.

Sixth Grade Field Trip, Feb. 26
On Feb, 26, sixth grade students will attend Oklahoma City Blue Field Trip Day at Paycom Center, enjoying a basketball game along with STEM-focused lessons and live demonstrations presented by Science Museum Oklahoma.

Rising Ninth Grade Course Registration
March 4
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor
Upper Division is pleased to welcome rising ninth grade students and their families to the other side of the lake to register for next year’s classes. We will begin with a presentation in St. Edward's Chapel, followed by small group registration sessions. In February we will supplement this event description with tools and resources for you to become familiar with your options before coming to campus. We are excited to meet the class of 2029!

Collect for the Week
Almighty and everliving God, we humbly pray that, as your only-begotten Son was this day presented in the temple, so we may be presented to you with pure and clean hearts by Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Carpool Reminders
To keep traffic moving, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.
Please follow the directions of teachers and administrators.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Spirit Day

Fifth and Sixth Grade: Respectful Communication
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will practice using non-blaming language to resolve conflicts.
Conversation Starter: Ask your student to give you an example of non-blaming, respectful communication. Brainstorm with them to think of a time in your household when non-blaming language could have been helpful and make a plan for how to use respectful communication in the future.
Seventh Grade*: Emotions Matter
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn how their brain handles strong emotions and brainstorm positive and negative decisions they might make when they feel a strong emotion.
Question: Ask your student to explain the difference between an emotion and a thought. Take turns expressing sentiments aloud and having the other person identify if the sentiments are thoughts or emotions. (For example, Emotion: “I’m so mad at the coach for not putting me in the game.” Thought: “That’s it—I quit!”)
*Eighth grade will be watching an Upper Division Performing Arts performance during SoulCraft this week.
February 2
Dear Middle Division Families,

We have finally entered into February, which means it is time for the Third Annual Reading Challenge House Competition! The premise is simple:

Read Books
Record the Number of Pages Read
Repeat
As parents and educators, we all understand the importance of reading. At the most basic level, reading helps us gain knowledge; however, it does so much more than that. It helps improve our cognitive abilities, fosters emotional intelligence and empathy, develops critical thinking skills, enhances our vocabulary, lets us think creatively, and exposes us to different styles and genres. The importance goes on and on.

Additionally, the Reading Challenge is a great way to foster a sense of community and friendly competition among participants. It encourages collaboration and support as we share our favorite titles, discuss characters, and exchange recommendations. By engaging in this challenge, we hope to model and inspire a love of reading for years to come.

I’m currently reading "Mistborn: Alloy of Law" by Brandon Sanderson and listening to Audible Original "Twain’s Feast" with Nick Offerman.

In this together,

Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org

Addendum to Honor Roll News
In the course of finalizing the Fall Term, we discovered an error in our form which unfortunately resulted in a group of students who should have been included but were not. We’d like to rectify that omission by sharing their names here. We plan to recognize them in Chapel next Tuesday. We regret this error and are glad to be able to set the record straight!

Eighth Grade: Chloe Hull, Mohnish Thakral
Seventh Grade: Joycelin Omori
Sixth Grade: Plum Ford, Adi Kotha, Ethan Li, John William Garrett, Oliver Thomas, Leia Reding
Fifth Grade: Brooks Jennings, Asa McKinney, Avalynn Taylor, Ben Brooks, Hannah Plotkin, Lillian Nyalala, Lucy Payne, Murad Aamir, Pauline Johnson.

Note to Eighth Grade Families
Please plan to join us and the eighth grade team on Tuesday, Feb. 4, at 5:30 p.m. in Fee Theater for an information session on our upcoming trip to Washington, D.C.

Fifth Grade to visit the Regional Food Bank
This Friday, our fifth graders will go to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma to learn about food shortages and their impact on our community. Additionally, our students get to serve those in need by packaging meals. This hands-on experience is a chance for them to see how their efforts can make a tangible difference in the lives of others while fostering empathy and a heart for service.

Casady Spring Soccer Fifth and Sixth Grade CGSAA
We are excited to offer spring soccer this year as an extracurricular activity.

There will be a $50 book bill sign-up fee for each student, plus $35 for the jersey. We ask that all players play in blue shorts. Players will need cleats and shin guards.

Practices will take place at Casady once a week beginning the week of Feb. 24. As we get closer to the season we will know the day of the week and time for the practices. Teams will be co-ed by grade level; if we need to combine grade levels, the team will play up to the older grade. The league games will be played on Saturdays, likely two games each Saturday, starting March 8 and will go through mid-May.

If you have any questions, please contact Assistant Athletic Director for Middle Division Ann Palms.

Sign-up ends Thursday, Feb. 20. Click here to register.

Sixth Grade Field Trip, Feb. 26
On Feb, 26, sixth grade students will attend Oklahoma City Blue Field Trip Day at Paycom Center, enjoying a basketball game along with STEM-focused lessons and live demonstrations presented by Science Museum Oklahoma.

Rising Ninth Grade Course Registration
March 4
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor
Upper Division is pleased to welcome rising ninth grade students and their families to the other side of the lake to register for next year’s classes. We will begin with a presentation in St. Edward's Chapel, followed by small group registration sessions. In February we will supplement this even description with tools and resources for you to become familiar with your options before coming to campus. We are excited to meet the class of 2029!

Collect for the Week
Almighty and everliving God, we humbly pray that, as your only-begotten Son was this day presented in the temple, so we may be presented to you with pure and clean hearts by Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Carpool Reminders
To keep traffic moving, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.
Please follow the directions of teachers and administrators.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Day

Fifth and Sixth Grade: Considering Multiple Perspectives
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn how to view situations from multiple perspectives so they can better avoid and resolve conflicts.
Conversation Starter: Tell your student about a time when your view of a conflict changed because you were able to see it from another person’s perspective. Ask your student if they have changed their view about a conflict lately.
Seventh and Eighth Grade: The Importance of Sleep
Summary: This week, we’ll explore the science of sleep and the role that rest plays in our ability to recuperate from the day and prepare for success in the next.
Question: What is your bedtime routine as an adult? How do you signal your body that it is time to rest? What signals does your body give you when you haven’t slept enough?
January 26
Dear Middle Division Families,

As many of you know, I am a big fan of Dr. Lisa Damour. I am currently participating in a continuing education workshop centered on her most recent work, "The Emotional Lives of Teenagers." In the course of my work, I listened to a recent episode from her podcast, "AskLisa, The Psychology of Parenting", titled, “Is it Okay for My Kid to Gossip with Her Friends Online?” Parenting children in the digital world is daunting and can feel like whack-a-mole. What I always appreciate about Dr. Damour is her genuine regard and respect for adolescents, her ability to frame parenting challenges within the larger context of adolescent development, and offer practical and actionable tips

In this episode, Dr. Damour offers the following reminders.

Practice what you preach. It’s natural to have friction in relationships, especially in the early adolescent years, and children need a way to process, commiserate, and express frustration. Given this, it can be helpful to engage your children in conversations about how you navigate sensitive conversations, when and how you determine it’s time to talk face-to-face, and how they can safeguard themselves from their words having unintended consequences.
When giving kids access to social technologies, go slow. Dr. Damour encourages parents to start small and limit early access to social media. She says to start with monitored texting and grow from there as their students gain in reason, temperance, and decision-making skills. Ms. Reed, our MD Counselor, teaches our 7th and 8th graders about their brains. In particular, their pre-frontal cortex, the part of the brain that controls impulse, self-regulation, and decision-making, is not fully developed until their early 20s. Access to the wide world of social media is fraught, and our children are not emotionally or intellectually equipped to manage it without guidance and support. They need guardrails.
Have kids use tech only in shared spaces. Dr. Damour suggests that using technology behind closed doors in their rooms, especially when accessing social media, can create the illusion for kids they are in a private space. This can be problematic when the reality is that behavior online is public and permanent. She is a strong advocate of bringing technology out of students' bedrooms as a safeguard against the typical impulsivity of young people as well as a way to protect their precious sleep.

Parenting is an imperfect science and we are all a work in progress. I hope you and your families have a great weekend.

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Fifth Grade to visit the Regional Food Bank
Our fifth graders are gearing up for an incredible service-learning opportunity! On Friday, Feb. 7, they’ll be heading to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma to learn about food shortages and their impact on our community.

Even more inspiring, our students will roll up their sleeves and give back by packaging meals for those in need. This hands-on experience is a chance for them to see how their efforts can make a tangible difference in the lives of others while fostering empathy and a heart for service.

We’re so proud of these young leaders and can’t wait to see the positive impact they’ll make!

Rising Ninth Grade Course Registration
March 4
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor

Upper Division is pleased to welcome rising ninth grade students and their families to the other side of the lake to register for next year’s classes. We will begin with a presentation in St. Edward's Chapel, followed by small group registration sessions. In February we will supplement this even description with tools and resources for you to become familiar with your options before coming to campus. We are excited to meet the class of 2029!

Collect for the Week
Give us grace, O Lord, to answer readily the call of our Savior Jesus Christ and proclaim to all people the Good News of his salvation, that we and the whole world may perceive the glory of his marvelous works; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Carpool Reminders
To keep traffic moving, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.
Please follow the directions of teachers and administrators.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Privilege Day

Fifth and Sixth Grade: Why Conflicts Escalate
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will identify behaviors that can cause conflicts to escalate, so they keep them from becoming more serious.
Conversation Starter: Tell your student about a time when you played a part in escalating a conflict. Explain what you wished you had done instead. Ask your student if they are part of a conflict right now that they need help with.
Seventh and Eighth Grade: Guest Speaker: Director of Community and Belonging BrieAnn Johnson
Summary: Students in seventh and eighth grade will learn more about what Community means at Casady, particularly through the Episcopal value of striving for peace among all people and respecting the dignity of every human being. We will look at how our words and actions can impact the community and either help or hinder feelings of belonging to those around us.
Question: Everyone says or does something at one point or another that they wish they could take back. Describe a moment you have said or done something you regret. How did you work to make it feel better for the person who was hurt? What strategies have you found for making sure your words and actions stay respectful of those around you, especially when your emotions start getting the best of you?

January 20

Dear Middle Division Families,

In Chapel on Friday, Father Youmans remarked on the unique cultural confluence occurring on Monday--an inauguration, college football championships, and the observance of a day of service in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. What a trifecta! On Tuesday, we’ll be recognizing both the importance of the inauguration as well as the impact of Dr. King.

On Thursday in chapel, we will recognize the achievements of those students who earned the Fall Term Honor Roll. By recognizing it in the Fall as well as at the end of the year, we wanted to create an opportunity for students to strive and have second chances, to be motivated by a goal, and to know that they are capable of great success, even if they can’t manage it all the time.

Lastly, this week looks to be quite cold! Please send your students in the appropriate clothing as we will continue to walk to chapel, lunch, and classes!

I hope that you and your family had a good long weekend!

In this together,

Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org

Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Students on Honor Roll for the Fall Term

Parents who wish to join us may do so but please understand that seating will be in the transept with limited visibility as the nave of the Chapel is reserved for students and faculty.

Fifth Grade	Sixth Grade	Seventh Grade	Eighth Grade
Aarav Agrawal Amelia Gonzalez Henry Audrina Goodman Grant Cogar Jessica Tricinella Lara Mussa Lorelei Sharpe Louisa Pierce Max Chugunov Meera Walia Mihika Maheshwari Naisha Artham Nora Gebrail Soren Hong Weston Reinersman Zoey Sawheny	Amelia Lawrence Charlie Hill Ella Lee Cryder David Pitts Ella Turnini Esaan Pathak Grace Pardue Halle Lam Hyder Jawed Jon Godish Mai Anne Cory Navya Jeevanantham Nirvan Poludasu Oliver Anderson Olivia Baldwin Olivia Evans Peyton Nguyen Reed Garabelli Sophia Tanwir Varun Gadde Vaibhav Thaduri Violet Hawkins Liam Robertson	Aria Madhavarapu Avelyn Pitts Avi Madhavarapu Bentley Ralls Cole Nguyen Ella Lechtenberger Klaire Jennings Hannah Baer Jonah Rughani Lauren Johnson Maggie Holt Mary Mills Olszewski Minh Koticha Parker Fong Preston Le Rana Kasireddy Ranya Hussein Russell Brown Scarlett Schwartz Shane Calvin Stella Lam Umar Aslam Zarayna Patel	Alice Sun Amaar Aslam Anaya Ali Anna Paula Martins Charlotte Anderson Charlotte Sparling Chloe Nguyen Cole Cashion Daniel Chugunov Deede Idara Larissa Goodman Rani Aamir Poppy Pierce Shirley Scheer Sneha Devakonda Thomas Zacharias

Upper Division Admin Coffee for Eighth Grade Parents

Jan. 23
8:30-9:30 a.m.
Benson Community Room - McClendon Middle Division Building

Parents of eighth graders, and any Middle Division parents who are curious about life in Upper Division, are invited to join Upper Division administration for a “coffee."

There will be a short presentation at 8:30 a.m. in Benson Community Room by Upper Division Director Marc Addington focusing on events and information relevant to families moving up to ninth grade. Following the presentation, Mr. Addington and his team will be there to answer any questions you may have!

Rising Ninth Grade Course Registration
March 4
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor

Upper Division is pleased to welcome rising ninth grade students and their families to the other side of the lake to register for next year’s classes. We will begin with a presentation in St. Edward's Chapel, followed by small group registration sessions. In February we will supplement this even description with tools and resources for you to become familiar with your options before coming to campus. We are excited to meet the class of 2029!

Collect for the Week
Almighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ is the light of the world: Grant that your people, illumined by your Word and Sacraments, may shine with the radiance of Christ's glory, that he may be known, worshipped, and obeyed to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Carpool Reminders

To keep traffic moving, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.

Please follow the directions of teachers and administrators.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.

Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Wear

Fifth and Sixth Grade: Guest Speaker: Director of Community & Belonging BrieAnn Johnson

Summary: Students in fifth and sixth grade will learn more about what Community means at Casady, particularly through the Episcopal value of striving for peace among all people and respecting the dignity of every human being. We will look at how our words and actions can impact the community and either help or hinder feelings of belonging for those around them.
Conversation Starter: Everyone says or does something at one point or another that they wish they could take back. Describe a moment you have said or done something you regret. How did you work to make it feel better for the person who was hurt? What strategies have you found for making sure your words and actions stay respectful of those around you, especially when your emotions start getting the best of you?

Seventh and Eighth Grade: Learning From Mistakes and Failure

Summary: By the end of this lesson, students will be able to analyze simple and complex scenarios to determine what they can learn from making mistakes.
Question: Tell your student about a mistake you made in the past and what you learned from it. Ask your student to tell you about a mistake they made and what they learned from it.

January 12
Dear Middle Division Families,

We hope you enjoyed Friday’s snow day! Our campus is always beautiful, but it’s extra lovely on snowy days, and it’s always fun to see the kids running around making snowmen and throwing snowballs.

Teachers have recorded final grades for the Fall Term and report cards can be found in MyCasady. This is a good opportunity to reflect with your students on their Fall Term learning experience and identify how they might use what they’ve learned to make good progress in the coming semester. Encourage them to remember that report cards represent one aspect of their learning on a series of assignments, quizzes, and tests. These numerical grades are added and averaged to give a number that corresponds to a letter. While these letters can communicate growth and effort, they don’t tell the whole, or final, story. Whatever the marks on your student's report card, it’s important to remember that growth looks like a lot of things in Middle Division, and progress is messy. We are proud of their commitment to improvement and good effort throughout the Fall Term and are looking forward to the Spring Term!

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Seventh Grade Field Trip
Tomorrow, seventh grade students will be off campus for their field trip. They should arrive at the usual time and be prepared to attend sports as scheduled. They should bring some money for lunch and remember to dress appropriately, with long sleeves and long pants, as they will be visiting worship centers.

Upper Division Admin Coffee for Eighth Grade Parents

Jan. 23
8:30-9:30 a.m.
Benson Community Room - McClendon Middle Division Building

Parents of eighth graders, and any Middle Division parents who are curious about life in Upper Division, are invited to join Upper Division administration for a “coffee."

There will be a short presentation at 8:30 a.m. in Benson Community Room by Upper Division Director Marc Addington focusing on events and information relevant to families moving up to ninth grade. Following the presentation, Mr. Addington and his team will be there to answer any questions you may have!

Rising Ninth Grade Course Registration

March 4
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor

Upper Division is pleased to welcome rising ninth grade students and their families to the other side of the lake to register for next year’s classes. We will begin with a presentation in St. Edward's Chapel, followed by small group registration sessions. In February we will supplement this even description with tools and resources for you to become familiar with your options before coming to campus. We are excited to meet the class of 2029!

Grandparents’ and Grandfriends’ Day 2025
Grandparents’ and Grandfriends’ Day 2025 is scheduled March 6 for Middle Division and Kindergarten and March 7 for Pre-K and Lower Division. Invitations will be mailed at the end of January. Please check each of your student’s grandparent/grandfriend information in MyCasady. If the information is correct, you do not need to do anything. If grandparent/grandfriend information is missing or incorrect, please complete this Information Form. Be sure to include all of the names of your students related to the grandparent/grandfriend. Please contact Jennifer Homsey ’00 at 405-749-3162 with questions. The form will close on Friday, Jan. 17.

Carpool Reminders
To keep traffic moving, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.
Please follow the directions of teachers and administrators.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Wear
This Week in Soulcraft
Fifth and Sixth Grade: “You’re Changing”
Summary: Students in fifth and sixth grade will be entering into a brand new unit titled, “Managing Relationships and Social Conflict.” Students learn strategies for developing and maintaining healthy relationships, perspective-taking, and dealing with conflict. This unit’s content helps students learn to honor and understand differences based on varied personal, familial, and cultural backgrounds. In this week’s lesson, your student will examine changes they’ve gone through and how those changes can affect their relationships.
Conversation Starter: Share how one of your friendships or relationships has changed over time. Ask your student to share how some of their friendships have changed since starting middle school.
Seventh and Eighth Grade: “Creating New Pathways in the Brain”
Summary: In this week’s lesson, students will be able to explain how practicing something difficult helps the brain grow new neural pathways.
Conversation Starter: Tell your student about a time you had to learn something challenging and explain how you persisted in learning it. Ask your student if there’s anything they would like to learn to do this year.
January 5
Dear Middle Division Families,

Happy New Year!

We hope you have enjoyed a restful break full of all the things you love. We are excited to welcome your students back on Tuesday! New Year energy can be powerful, and Spring Semester is the time to put all the skills learned in the fall to work. Your students will grow and change so much in coming months, and the time will fly by. So, here’s to 2025; I pray that it will be a good year for all of us!

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Seventh Grade Field Trip
On Monday, Jan. 13, seventh grade students will participate in a celebration of diverse religious traditions in our Oklahoma City community. During this special day, students will have the opportunity to visit a Muslim mosque, a Jewish synagogue, and a Buddhist monastery. In all three of these locations, students are invited to learn more about these sacred spaces and the practices of faith at each. Grounded in the sixth and seventh grade World History curriculum, this day aims to give students a greater appreciation for the diverse faith communities in Oklahoma City.

Upper Division Admin Coffee for Eighth Grade Parents

Jan. 23
8:30-9:30 a.m.
Benson Community Room

Parents of eighth graders, and any Middle Division parents who are curious about life in Upper Division, are invited to join Upper Division administration for a “coffee."

There will be a short presentation at 8:30 a.m. in Benson Community Room by Upper Division Director Marc Addington focusing on events and information relevant to families moving up to ninth grade. Following the presentation, Mr. Addington and his team will be there to answer any questions you may have!

Rising Ninth Grade Course Registration

March 4
6:30-7:30 p.m.
The Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor

Upper Division is pleased to welcome rising ninth grade students and their families to the other side of the lake to register for next year’s classes. We will begin with a presentation in the Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor, followed by small group registration sessions. In February we will supplement this even description with tools and resources for you to become familiar with your options before coming to campus. We are excited to meet the class of 2029!

Grandparents’ and Grandfriends’ Day 2025
Grandparents’ and Grandfriends’ Day 2025 is scheduled March 6 for Middle Division and Kindergarten and March 7 for Pre-K and Lower Division. Invitations will be mailed at the end of January. Please check each of your student’s grandparent/grandfriend information in MyCasady. If the information is correct, you do not need to do anything. If grandparent/grandfriend information is missing or incorrect, please complete this Information Form. Be sure to include all of the names of your students related to the grandparent/grandfriend. Please contact Jennifer Homsey ’00 at 405-749-3162 with questions. The form will close on Friday, Jan. 17.

Carpool Reminders
To keep traffic moving, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.
Please follow the directions of teachers and administrators.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.
This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - No School
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Wear
December 15
Dear Middle Division Families,

Last Wednesday, first grade came to our Middle Division Chapel to perform their annual Christmas concert. It was lovely to see their enthusiasm and earnest faces. Watching it, I couldn’t help but remember when my children performed so many years ago and reflect on how far they’ve come. In the day-to-day of life, it’s easy to get caught up in all the many details, the trials and challenges, the “what’s next?” and “if only.” Seeing all those first grade faces was a wonderful reminder to me to stop and give thanks for all the good growth and joyful moments that my children and your students have experienced along the way.

Looking forward, finals begin for our seventh and eighth graders this Wednesday, and fifth and sixth graders are wrapping up their semester. This is a happy week, full of anticipation for the coming holiday, and it is a stressful week as our students navigate the challenges of managing their time and completing their assessments. Thank you for helping us to do the work of supporting and encouraging our students that they have the skills and capacity to meet the challenges ahead. A good night's sleep, a good breakfast, and a good, quiet place to do their work helps as well!

Looking even further ahead, from all of us in Middle Division, we wish you and your families the very best for this holiday season. May it be filled with good food, good rest, and good play, and may you have the time and opportunity to celebrate with those you love.

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Holiday Dress Up Days
Monday, Dec. 16: Christmas Vacation
Tuesday, Dec. 17: (Christmas Chapel) Holiday Heads and Toes
Students must be in uniform but may wear holiday hats, socks, necklaces, and accessories.
Wednesday-Thursday: School as Usual; Uniform
Friday, Dec. 20: 1/2 Day Holiday Morning Pjs
We have reviewed these days and the expectations with your students. We appreciate you partnering with us to make sure that your students are embracing the spirit of the day and dress according to the stated theme. Students may always choose to wear their uniform if they do not wish to participate. They may be asked to change or call home if they are not in appropriate Holiday Theme attire. Please note: They may only wear PJs on Friday, Dec. 20.

Seventh and Eighth Grade Semester Exams
Instead of block scheduling exams by subject matter, they will now be scheduled by period. There are undeniable benefits for students who test in the same place that they have learned and been assessed for a full semester. Not only that, having their teacher in the room with them is a considerable advantage when students have questions. Language classes can have exams in that period, extending the days available for instruction and review. Another advantage for our students is that they will experience the same testing format they will have in Upper Division.

Lost items in Bennett Athletic Center
Parents, the BAC lost and found is full of items left or lost during the fall season. Please drop by, or direct your student to drop by, BAC next week. We have shoes, belts, skirts, polos, water bottles, and more!

UPDATED Carpool Reminders
Carpool is getting backed up in the morning because cars are trying to turn left out of the right lane and right out of the middle and flagpole lane. To keep traffic moving, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.
Please follow the directions of teachers and administrators.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.
December 8
Dear Middle Division Families,

Fifth grade traveled to Guthrie last week for their annual holiday field trip. They saw “A Territorial Christmas” at the historic Pollard Theater and toured the fascinating Scottish Rite Temple, the largest Masonic Temple in the United States!

This Tuesday, our sixth graders will journey to St. Paul’s Cathedral, the seat of the Episcopal Bishop of Oklahoma, to help prepare their warming shelter for those in need this coming winter season.

Also this week, we look forward to “Glowing it Up” at our annual seventh and eighth grade Holiday Dance on Friday, Dec. 13, from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in Nichols Activity Center.

Creating opportunities for participation in this season through service and festive activities is just one way our faculty help their students practice living lives of balance, purpose, and joy

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Holiday Dress Up Days
Monday, Dec. 16: Christmas Vacation
Tuesday, Dec. 17: (Christmas Chapel) Holiday Heads and Toes
Students must be in uniform but may wear holiday hats, socks, necklaces, and accessories.
Wednesday-Thursday: School as Usual; Uniform
Friday, Dec. 20: 1/2 Day Holiday Morning Pjs
We have reviewed these days and the expectations with your students. We appreciate you partnering with us to make sure that your students are embracing the spirit of the day and dress according to the stated theme. Students may always choose to wear their uniform if they do not wish to participate. They may be asked to change or call home if they are not in appropriate Holiday Theme attire. Please note: They may only wear PJs on Friday, Dec. 20.

Seventh and Eighth Grade Semester Exams
Instead of block scheduling exams by subject matter, they will now be scheduled by period. There are undeniable benefits for students who test in the same place that they have learned and been assessed for a full semester. Not only that, having their teacher in the room with them is a considerable advantage when students have questions. Language classes can have exams in that period, extending the days available for instruction and review. Another advantage for our students is that they will experience the same testing format they will have in Upper Division.

Wednesday, Dec. 18, through Friday, Dec. 20, will be half days for seventh and eighth graders. Students staying for lunch need to notify Mrs. Goodwin by Friday, Dec 13. Students should use their study guides to focus their efforts and review their old tests and quizzes.

Seventh and eighth graders will have a special meeting with Ms. Reed on Thursday to talk about maintaining a healthy exam mindset. She will review ways to build confidence, cope with test anxiety, and identify best practices to support success on the tests.

Discussion for Families: How are you helping your students prepare for finals at home? Routines such as limited screen time, consistent bedtimes, and healthy balanced snacks are always important but especially key at this time."

Lost items in Bennett Athletic Center
Parents, the BAC lost and found is full of items left or lost during the fall season. Please drop by, or direct your student to drop by, BAC next week. We have shoes, belts, skirts, polos, water bottles, and more!

Reminders for Missing School
Our MD Handbook outlines the following philosophy and expectations regarding student absences:

Our program is holistic, and we value each piece of the school day and trust that our families, in choosing Casady, do so as well. Participating in the fullness of the day's activities with their peers matters for middle schoolers. Excused or otherwise, excessive absences and/or tardies are detrimental to student learning. As such, families are expected to make every effort to have their students here, on time, each day.

Student absence outside of our calendared breaks can cause additional stress. Teachers may not be able to provide work ahead and students should anticipate managing makeup assessments and missed lessons and assignments.

Communicating these absences ahead of time and emailing Mrs. Goodwin will help us support your student.

UPDATED Carpool Reminders
Carpool is getting backed up in the morning because cars are trying to turn left out of the right lane and right out of the middle and flagpole lane. To keep traffic moving, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.
Please follow the directions of teachers and administrators.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please pull through and park if they need more time to get organized.
Pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.
This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Holiday Dress: Festive Holiday Sweaters!
Friday - Holiday Lights Color Wars by Grade

Collect for Second Week of Advent, Dec. 8
Merciful God, who sent your messengers the prophets to preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation: Give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins, that we may greet with joy the coming of Jesus Christ our Redeemer; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

SoulCraft
On Dec. 11, all fifth through eighth grade students will watch the first grade class perform Christmas Carols in their red sweaters for the holiday.
December 1
Dear Middle Division Families,

As you know, there are always lots of feelings in Middle Division. It’s reasonable that your student will experience periods of stress between now and the Christmas Holiday. There’s a lot going on! As adults, we know that we have to work at this time of the year to balance all the things, so it’s reasonable that our students might struggle with this as well.

One of the most important things we can do for our students is to help them match their feelings to their circumstances and understand that feelings are information. In her most recent book, The Emotional Lives of Teenagers, Dr. Lisa Damour says, “We want our teenagers to appreciate the input provided by their feelings, to know that uncomfortable experiences will help them grow, and to learn to navigate their emotions effectively.”

As your students prepare for and take their final assessments, you may hear them saying things like, “I can’t do this,” “They didn’t teach us this,” or “How am I supposed to know all this?” This is normal. And, it’s hard to watch our students be uncomfortable; our impulse might be to rush in and take over or remove the obstacle. When we see our student in distress, it can be helpful to simply acknowledge their feelings and affirm our belief in their capacity to do hard things. This is a crucial building block for their self-efficacy or conviction in their ability to meet expectations or achieve their goals.

As the adults in their lives who have the benefit of a longer-lived experience, we can help them by normalizing their worries, giving them consistent, distraction-free spaces to work, helping them stay organized, and reminding them that these moments, “this too shall pass!”

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Fifth Grade Field Trip “A Territorial Christmas Carol”
Fifth grade students have an exciting field trip planned for Thursday, Dec. 5, as they embark on an educational journey to Guthrie. The day kicks off with a tour of the amazing Scottish Rite Temple. After our tour, we will enjoy a performance of "A Territorial Christmas Carol" at the renowned Pollard Theater. For lunch, we'll stop at Pizza Hut to refuel for the day's adventures. Finally, we will end the day by visiting the Territorial Museum, where they will partake in a scavenger hunt, delving into the rich history of Oklahoma. Students may bring a maximum of $20 to the museum's gift shop. We do not need chaperones for the trip. Should you have any questions or require further information, kindly reach out to your student's advisor.

Seventh and Eighth Grade Semester Exams
After reviewing our past exam schedule and consulting with Upper Division, we have decided to try a different approach this year that we believe will benefit our students. Instead of block scheduling exams by subject matter, they will now be scheduled by period. There are undeniable benefits for students who test in the same place that they have learned and been assessed for a full semester. Not only that, having their teacher in the room with them is a considerable advantage when students have questions. Language classes can exams in that period, extending the days available for instruction and review. Another advantage for our students is to experience the same format of testing they will have in Upper Division.

Wednesday-Friday will be half days. Parents who wish for their students to stay for lunch need to notify Mrs. Goodwin by Friday, Dec 13. Teachers will provide directions and study guides starting this week.

Time for Dancing!
We are excited to Let it Glow! for our seventh and eighth grade dance on Friday, Dec. 13, at 7:00 p.m. No one needs a date, all seventh and eighth graders are invited!

Lost Items in Bennett Athletic Center
BAC lost and found is full of items left or lost during the fall season. Please drop by, or direct your student to drop by, BAC this week. We have shoes, belts, skirts, polos, water bottles, and more!

Reminder for Travel
As we approach the holiday season, we see more students missing school. Our MD Handbook outlines the following philosophy and expectations regarding student absences:

Our program is holistic, and we value each piece of the school day and trust that our families, in choosing Casady, do so as well. Participating in the fullness of the day's activities with their peers matters for Middle Division students. Excused or otherwise, excessive absences and/or tardies are detrimental to student learning. As such, families are expected to make every effort to have their students here, on time, each day.

If you are planning trips outside of our calendared breaks, it’s important to understand that this can cause additional stress for your students. Teachers may not be able to provide work ahead and students should anticipate managing makeup assessments and missed lessons and assignments.

Communicating these absences ahead of time and emailing Mrs. Goodwin will help us support your student.

Updated Carpool Reminders
We are noticing that carpool is getting backed up in the morning because cars are trying to turn left out of the right lane and right out of the middle and flagpole lane. To help the flow of traffic, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane. It is a through lane for moving traffic.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please try to avoid them using the trunk as it slows traffic, and more importantly, puts them on the road while cars are moving around them.
Fill in the spaces and pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the Cupboard before stopping to unload or load your student.
Lastly, seventh and eighth grade parents: waiting until 4:00 p.m. to pick up your student will help you avoid waiting in line and allow fifth and sixth grade families to move efficiently.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Referendum Privilege Day
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Day

This Week in SoulCraft
Fifth and Sixth Grade: Thinking Short-Term and Long-Term
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn how to evaluate short-term and long-term feelings when making a decision using guiding principles.
Conversation Starter: Tell your student about a decision you made. Describe how it made you feel, both in the moment and after some time passed. Ask your student how short-term and long-term feelings can help them make decisions they feel good about.
Seventh and Eighth Grade: Dopamine Menus
Summary: This week in Soul Craft, students will stay in their advisories and create a Dopamine Menu. As the holidays approach, what better way to gift ourselves than to consider positive ways to cope with stress and build a healthy toolbox of dopamine-inducing activities? Be sure to ask your student to show you their Dopamine Menu when they come home on Wednesday!
Conversation Starter: How do you take care of yourself when you only have 5-10 minutes to reset and recharge? What about 15-30 minutes? What do you like to do with a whole hour or day to yourself to unwind or renew your spirit?
Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that we may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Service Learning
To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
November 17
Dear Middle Division Families,

Can you believe that we are one week away from Thanksgiving Break? It feels like just yesterday when the school year began, and now we’re already gearing up for the final sprint of the Fall Trimester. Please remind your student to take this break as it is intended—a time for rest, reflection, and rejuvenation. This is an opportunity for them to step away from the daily demands, recharge their energy, and perhaps gain new perspectives on the challenges they face. They should embrace the pause and allow themselves the space to unwind and restore focus.

Additionally, we hope you have a great Thanksgiving with family, friends, and loved ones. The beauty of this holiday lies in the simplicity of sharing a meal and expressing gratitude. If you're looking for a thought-provoking conversation starter during dinner, challenge your guests with these classic questions: Is mac and cheese truly a Thanksgiving side? Stuffing or dressing? How do you prefer your cranberry sauce - can or other?

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Lost Items in Bennett Athletic Center
BAC lost and found is full of items left or lost during the fall season. Please drop by, or direct your student to drop by, BAC this week. We have shoes, belts, skirts, polos, water bottles, and more!

Reminder for Travel
As we approach the holiday season, we see more students missing school. Our MD Handbook outlines the following philosophy and expectations regarding student absences:

Our program is holistic, and we value each piece of the school day and trust that our families, in choosing Casady, do so as well. Participating in the fullness of the day's activities with their peers matters for Middle Division students. Excused or otherwise, excessive absences and/or tardies are detrimental to student learning. As such, families are expected to make every effort to have their students here, on time, each day.

If you are planning trips outside of our calendared breaks, it’s important to understand that this can cause additional stress for your students. Teachers may not be able to provide work ahead and students should anticipate managing makeup assessments and missed lessons and assignments.

Communicating these absences ahead of time and emailing Mrs. Goodwin will help us support your student.

Updated Carpool Reminders
We are noticing that carpool is getting backed up in the morning because cars are trying to turn left out of the right lane and right out of the middle and flagpole lane. To help the flow of traffic, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane. It is a through lane for moving traffic.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please try to avoid them using the trunk as it slows traffic, and more importantly, puts them on the road while cars are moving around them.
Fill in the spaces and pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the Cupboard before stopping to unload or load your student.
Lastly, seventh and eighth grade parents: waiting until 4:00 p.m. to pick up your student will help you avoid waiting in line and allow fifth and sixth grade families to move efficiently.

Semester Exams
Seventh and eighth graders will take Fall Semester exams Dec. 18-20. These are half days and there are no classes. Teachers will provide directions and study guides after Thanksgiving. Please plan your holiday travel accordingly.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Privilege Day

This Week in SoulCraft
Fifth and Sixth Grade - Multiple Guiding Principles
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn how to use multiple guiding principles when making a decision.
Conversation Starter: Ask your student about decisions they’ve made where they used or could have used their guiding principles.
Seventh and Eighth Grade - Body Image
Summary: Body image was a requested topic from last year’s Soul Craft feedback survey. Ms. Reed and Father Youmans will use the past weeks’ lessons about Self-Concept to discuss and process how body image is a lifelong topic, and how we use what we have learned about our own strengths, weaknesses, and values over the past few weeks to combat negative body image.
Conversation Starter: Who do you talk to when you feel conflicted about body image? How can I support you as you continue to go through puberty and the challenges that come from a changing body? How would you know if your thoughts about your body were leading you to change your behaviors in either/both positive or negative ways? What do you like about yourself at this age?
Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that we may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Service Learning
To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
November 10
Dear Middle Division Families,

I wanted to take this opportunity to share a change in our acknowledgment and celebration of academic achievement in Middle Division. I’ve said many times that the work of this building is messy, and learning is not linear. Students must and will confront challenges and setbacks, for it is through these moments that they develop resilience, perspective, intrinsic motivation, and confidence. It is with this lens that we have evaluated our current academic achievement model and why we plan to shift to a system that not only allows us to recognize the nature of growth and achievement in Middle Division but also better aligns with Upper Division's model.

As some of you know, we have a long-standing tradition in Middle Division of acknowledging students in the “First Quartile” at our end-of-year closing chapels. The first quartile is determined by the range of averages in each class, and as such it is a moving and “unknowable” target. Additionally, for a student who struggles to get started in the fall or perhaps has a particularly difficult time in the spring, achieving first quartile can feel impossible. We wanted to create an opportunity for students to strive and have second chances, to be motivated by a goal, or to know that they are capable of great success, even if they can’t manage it all the time.

For these reasons, starting this term, we will acknowledge and celebrate a Middle Division Honor Roll after the close of Fall and Spring Term. Students with a combined average in their academic classes of 95 or above will be included. We feel these shifts will enable us to celebrate better the growth of our students as well as their academic achievements.

Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t take the opportunity to recognize that there are a variety of success stories in our building, and we endeavor to see and affirm many of them. While we value high academic achievement, we are also a place that seeks to nourish the growth of good character and respectful behavior amid the complexity of early adolescence. It's important to remember that a single academic term or year doesn't define a student's entire academic journey. When our students leave our division with a sense of capacity, concern and respect for others, and curiosity and desire to know and do good in their world, we celebrate that good achievement as well.

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Food Drive Results
Kelly House won the annual Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma Food Drive! They earned an extra privilege day this Thursday, Nov. 14!

Reminder for Travel
As we approach the holiday season, we see more students missing school. Our MD Handbook outlines the following philosophy and expectations regarding student absences:

Our program is holistic, and we value each piece of the school day and trust that our families, in choosing Casady, do so as well. Participating in the fullness of the day's activities with their peers matters for Middle Division students. Excused or otherwise, excessive absences and/or tardies are detrimental to student learning. As such, families are expected to make every effort to have their students here, on time, each day.

If you are planning trips outside of our calendared breaks, it’s important to understand that this can cause additional stress for your students. Teachers may not be able to provide work ahead and students should anticipate managing makeup assessments and missed lessons and assignments.

Communicating these absences ahead of time and emailing Mrs. Goodwin will help us support your student.

Updated Carpool Reminders
We are noticing that carpool is getting backed up in the morning because cars are trying to turn left out of the right lane and right out of the middle and flagpole lane. To help the flow of traffic, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane. It is a through lane for moving traffic.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please try to avoid them using the trunk as it slows traffic, and more importantly, puts them on the road while cars are moving around them.
Fill in the spaces and pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the Cupboard before stopping to unload or load your student.
Lastly, seventh and eighth grade parents: waiting until 4:00 p.m. to pick up your student will help you avoid waiting in line and allow fifth and sixth grade families to move efficiently.

Semester Exams
Seventh and eighth graders will take Fall Semester exams Dec. 18-20. These are half days and there are no classes. Teachers will provide directions and study guides after Thanksgiving. Please plan your holiday travel accordingly.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Friday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform, Kelly House Privilege
Friday - Spirit Day

This Week in SoulCraft
Fifth and Sixth Grade - Multiple Guiding Principles
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn how to use multiple guiding principles when making a decision.
Conversation Starter: Ask your student about decisions they’ve made where they used or could have used their guiding principles.
Due to scheduling conflicts, fifth and sixth grade were not able to meet last week. We will proceed with the same lesson this upcoming week.
Seventh and Eighth Grade - “The Crucible” Teaser will happen at this time!

Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
O God, whose blessed Son came into the world that he might destroy the works of the devil and make us children of God and heirs of eternal life: Grant that, having this hope, we may purify ourselves as he is pure; that, when he comes again with power and great glory, we may be made like him in his eternal and glorious kingdom; where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Service Learning
To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
November 3
Dear Middle Division Families,

We had a great time celebrating Halloween last week! It is one of our favorite building activities, and we appreciate all the parents who came and volunteered at treat stations around the lake!

Thank you, as well, for helping us support the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. As a building, we were able to donate 2,500 cans to the annual drive! The winning house was Kelly House, and they will get an extra privilege day this month to celebrate!

This week, we’re looking forward to our Middle Division mock elections on Tuesday and our campus-wide Diwali celebrations on Thursday. Eighth graders from Mr. Hermansen’s Civics course designed a registration drive and mock election plan. We are excited for our students to experience this privilege and responsibility of citizenship, and we hope that it will inspire them to register and vote when they are eligible to do so!

We have officially begun the Winter Season for sports. Thank you to all our athletes who competed in Cross Country, Field Hockey, Football, and Volleyball this season. You represented Casady exceptionally well. We all look forward to what the next season holds!

Lastly, as we approach the holiday season, we see more students missing school. Our MD Handbook outlines the following philosophy and expectations regarding student absences:

Our program is holistic, and we value each piece of the school day and trust that our families, in choosing Casady, do so as well. Participating in the fullness of the day's activities with their peers matters for middle schoolers. Excused or otherwise, excessive absences and/or tardies are detrimental to student learning. As such, families are expected to make every effort to have their students here, on time, each day.

If you are planning trips outside of our calendared breaks, it’s important to understand that this can cause additional stress for your students. Teachers may not be able to provide work ahead and students should anticipate managing makeup assessments and missed lessons and assignments.

Communicating these absences ahead of time and emailing Mrs.Goodwin will help us support your student.

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Updated Carpool Reminders
NEW: We are noticing that carpool is getting backed up in the morning because cars are trying to turn left out of the right lane and right out of the middle and flagpole lane. To help the flow of traffic, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane. It is a through lane for moving traffic.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please try to avoid them using the trunk as it slows traffic, and more importantly, puts them on the road while cars are moving around them.
Fill in the spaces and pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to unload or load your student.
Lastly, seventh and eighth grade parents: waiting until 4:00 p.m. to pick up your student will help you avoid waiting in line and allow fifth and sixth grade families to move efficiently.

Semester Exams
Seventh and eighth graders will take Fall Semester exams Dec. 18-20. These are half days and there are no classes. Teachers will provide directions and study guides after Thanksgiving. Please plan your holiday travel accordingly.

Parent Connection Night - Prevention Solutions recording
If you missed our recent Parent Connection Night featuring Prevention Solutions, the video recording is now available! This session covers vital information on identifying risk factors, talking with teens, and other available resources. Watching this can help us all work together to keep our students safe and healthy.

Please take some time to view it at your convenience by clicking here.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Friday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Day

This Week in SoulCraft
Fifth and Sixth Grade - Multiple Guiding Principles
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn how to use multiple guiding principles when making a decision.
Conversation Starter: Ask your student about decisions they’ve made where they used or could have used their guiding principles.
Due to scheduling conflicts, fifth and sixth grade were not able to meet last week. We will proceed with the same lesson this upcoming week.
Seventh and Eighth Grade - Guest star Mr. Staats with reflective questions and hard-hitting soul-searching!

Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
Almighty and everlasting God, increase in us the gifts of faith, hope, and charity; and, that we may obtain what you promise, make us love what you command; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Service Learning
To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
October 27
Dear Middle Division Families,

We are observing Halloween this Thursday, Oct. 31. Students are welcome to dress in costume. Their costumes must be school-appropriate with no visible undergarments, references to drugs or alcohol, no weapons, and any heads must be removable for class. They must be able to participate fully in their day, including sports. They will be asked to change if they are not in compliance with the guidelines. Additionally, this will be a House Competition! Categories are listed in each grade-level pod, and we look forward to seeing some scary and punny costumes. If they choose not to wear a costume, that’s just fine. They may come in their regular School uniform. If they have any questions, please reach out to Mrs. Zedlitz, Mr. Staats, or your student’s advisor.

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Updated Carpool Reminders
NEW: We are noticing that carpool is getting backed up in the morning because cars are trying to turn left out of the right lane and right out of the middle and flagpole lane. To help the flow of traffic, please go left out of the flagpole lane and right out of the right lane.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane. It is a through lane for moving traffic.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please try to avoid them using the trunk as it slows traffic, and more importantly, puts them on the road while cars are moving around them.
Fill in the spaces and pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to unload or load your student.
Lastly, seventh and eighth grade parents: waiting until 4:00 p.m. to pick up your student will help you avoid waiting in line and allow fifth and sixth grade families to move efficiently.

Food Drive
This is the last week for our annual Food Drive for Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. This is a House competition and the winning House will receive an extra privilege day! We are accepting donations through Oct. 29.

Halloween Around the Lake!
We are excited for our fourth annual Halloween Around the Lake. Many thanks to our parents, who have volunteered to host a treat table around the lake. Kids will be trick-or-treating from 2:30-3:30 p.m., and we will dismiss at the normal 3:40-4:00 p.m. time.

CGSAA Basketball
CGSAA basketball registration for fourth-sixth grade is open until Nov. 1. Contact Coach Palms if you have any questions at palmsa@casady.org.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Friday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Halloween
Friday - Spirit Day

This Week in SoulCraft
Fifth and Sixth Grade - Multiple Making Decisions
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn how to use guiding principles when making a decision.
Question: Ask your student about decisions they’ve made where they used or could have used their guiding principles.
Seventh and Eighth Grade - Agency
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn about agency—the power to make and act on their own decisions. They’ll identify some areas in their lives in which they have agency and learn that focusing on those areas can help them feel empowered.
Conversation Starter: Tell your student about an area in your life in which you have agency. Ask them to describe where they have agency in life.

Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
Almighty and everlasting God, increase in us the gifts of faith, hope, and charity; and, that we may obtain what you promise, make us love what you command; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Service Learning
To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
October 20
Dear Middle Division Families,

This Friday, Oct. 25, immediately following our morning carpool, we are holding our biannual "Coffee Talk" in Middle Division's Benson Community Room. As a guiding principle, we believe caring for our students is best done in partnership and conversation with our families. We also love to talk about all the amazing things happening in Middle Division as well as the challenges and cheers of raising adolescents. This will not be a formal presentation but more of a casual conversation. If you have questions or just want to chat over coffee, please join us this Friday!

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Carpool Reminders
We know there are many feelings about carpool. It’s important that we remember that we share the same goal: to drop off and pick up our students safely and efficiently. We appreciate you adhering to the following practices.
Please stay off your phone in the carpool line.
Students may not load or unload in the middle lane. It is a through lane for moving traffic.
Students should be ready to get out of the car in the morning. Please try to avoid them using the trunk as it slows traffic, and more importantly, puts them on the road while cars are moving around them.
Fill in the spaces and pull all the way up to the Casady crest by the cupboard before stopping to load or unload your student.
Lastly, 7th and 8th-grade parents: waiting until 4:00 p.m. to pick up your student will help you avoid waiting in line and allow 5th and 6th grade families to move efficiently.

Food Drive
We are collecting cans and other shelf-stable goods for our annual Food Drive for the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. We’d love to be able to fill the trailer and do our part to support the Food Bank’s mission to “provide nutritious food and pathways to self-sufficiency for people facing hunger.” This is a House competition and the winning house will receive an extra privilege day! We are accepting donations through Oct. 29.

Halloween
We will observe Halloween on Thursday, Oct. 31. Students are welcome to dress in costume. Their costumes must be school-appropriate with no visible undergarments, references to drugs or alcohol, no weapons, and any heads must be removable for class. We will remind students that whatever their costume, they need to be able to participate fully in their day, including sports. They will be asked to change if they are not in compliance with the guidelines. If they have any questions, they should reach out to Mrs. Zedlitz or Mr. Staats.

If they choose not to wear a costume, they may come in their regular school uniform.

Halloween Around the Lake!
We are excited for our fourth annual Halloween Around the Lake. Many thanks to our parents, who have volunteered to host a treat table around the lake. Kids will be trick-or-treating from 2:30-3:30 p.m., and we will dismiss at the normal 3:40-4:00 p.m. time.

Upper Division Open House - Invitation for Eighth Grade Families
Casady School presents an Open House for students and families interested in learning more about Casady School and Upper Division. This event begins at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 27.

This is not just for prospective families; current eighth grade families are encouraged to attend!

This fun and informational event features student-guided tours around Casady’s Upper Division campus and an opportunity to learn about our academic offerings and curriculum from department chairs and faculty members. Attendees will select from several informational sessions covering Athletics, College Counseling, and our interactive Maker Space before closing with a student panel covering Clubs, Extracurriculars, social activities, and a Q&A.

Upper Division Open House
Sunday, Oct. 27
2:00-4:00 p.m.

Due to the nature of this event, we ask that you arrive and check in at 2:00 p.m. so we can promptly begin tours. Register today by clicking here.

CGSAA Basketball
Registration for the CGSAA basketball season is now open for students in fourth through sixth grade. Registration closes Friday, Nov. 1, and practice begins the week of Nov. 18.

Register by clicking here.

There is a $50 registration fee, plus a fee for the uniform. If you have your uniform from last year, and it still fits, you are welcome to use it.

Once we have an idea of numbers we will determine what day of the week we will practice, which will likely be Monday or Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Games will take place on Saturdays and Sundays beginning the weekend of Dec. 7.

If you have any questions please contact Ann Palms.

Yearbook Photos, Ordering, and Retakes
Photos were taken on Sept. 10, but you can still order them online. The code is Casady24. If your student did not have their picture taken, Retake Day will be Oct. 22.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Friday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Privilege Day

This Week in SoulCraft
Fifth and Sixth Grade - Making Decisions
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn how to use guiding principles when making a decision. This can help your student make decisions they feel good about.
Question: Tell your student about a tough decision you’ve made. Share what you think about when you’re making decisions. Ask your student to describe a tough decision they’ve made.
Seventh and Eighth Grade - Agency
Summary: In this week’s lesson, your student will learn about agency—the power to make and act on their own decisions. They’ll identify some areas in their lives in which they have agency and learn that focusing on those areas can help them feel empowered.
Conversation Starter: Tell your student about an area in your life in which you have agency. Ask them to describe where they have agency in life.

Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
Almighty and everlasting God, in Christ you have revealed your glory among the nations: Preserve the works of your mercy, that your Church throughout the world may persevere with steadfast faith in the confession of your Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Service Learning
To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
October 14
Dear Middle Division Families,

This past week, many students performed in the Middle Division play "Kid Frankenstein." I could not help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride in our performers and our School. Our students do so much more than the prescribed day-to-day work of their classes, and it is a joy to see them excel in different facets. If you did not get the chance to see the play, there will be a Middle Division musical in the Spring Semester, "Frozen Jr.", and I encourage you all to go and see our amazing students in action.

On another note, I hope you all had a wonderful Fall Break. Even more, I hope this break was a break.

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Halloween
We will be observing Halloween on Thursday, Oct. 31. Students are welcome to dress in costume. Their costumes must be school-appropriate with no visible undergarments, references to drugs or alcohol, no weapons, and any heads must be removable for class. We will remind students that whatever their costume, they need to be able to participate fully in their day, including sports. They will be asked to change if they are not in compliance with the guidelines. If they have any questions, they should reach out to Mrs. Zedlitz or Mr. Staats.

If they choose not to wear a costume, they may come in their regular school uniform.

Halloween Around the Lake!
We are excited for our fourth annual Halloween Around the Lake. Many thanks to our parents, who have volunteered to host a treat table around the lake. Kids will be trick-or-treating from 2:30-3:30 p.m., and we will dismiss at the normal 3:40-4:00 p.m. time.

Coffee with Sara and Jake
Jake and I believe caring for our students is best done in partnership and conversation with our families. We also love to talk about all the amazing things happening in Middle Division, as well as the challenges and cheers of raising adolescents. If you have questions or just want to chat over coffee, join us on Oct. 25 in Benson Community Room after carpool. This will not be a formal presentation.

Universal Screeners
Casady School will participate in universal social-emotional and behavioral (SEB) screenings as part of a larger effort to enhance the health and wellness of Casady students. Universal screening is a process for identifying strengths, needs, and useful information so that students can be better supported in interventions that prevent or reduce challenges and promote resiliency. Screenings in the school setting are not used for diagnostic purposes but will help us understand and monitor the social and emotional functioning of our students. Screenings will be completed on Oct. 15 and 17 for Middle Division and Oct. 22 for Upper Division.
The BASC-3 Behavioral and Emotional Screening System (BESS) will be used for Middle and Upper Divisions.
Upper and Middle Division screenings will be completed by the students and will take place during advisory.
You will be notified by a member of our Student Support Services team if the results indicate that your student could benefit from school-based interventions or parental consultation. If this is the case, our department will share the overall results with you and discuss ways you can get support for your child. You will not be contacted if your student is found not to need additional support.
Please complete this Casady SEB opt-out form if you do not want your student to be screened.
Reach out to Samantha Kobs with any questions.

Upper Division Open House - Invitation for Eighth Grade Families
Casady School presents an Open House for students and families interested in learning more about Casady School and Upper Division.

This is not just for prospective families; current eighth grade families are encouraged to attend!

This fun and informational event features student-guided tours around Casady’s Upper Division campus and an opportunity to learn about our academic offerings and curriculum from department chairs and faculty members. Attendees will select from several informational sessions covering Athletics, College Counseling, and our interactive Maker Space before closing with a student panel covering Clubs, Extracurriculars, social activities, and a Q&A.

Upper Division Open House
Sunday, Oct. 27
2:00-4:00 p.m.

Due to the nature of this event, we ask that you arrive and check in at 2:00 p.m. so we can promptly begin tours. Register today by clicking here.

Yearbook Photos, Ordering, and Retakes
Photos were taken on Sept. 10, but you can still order them online. The code is Casady24. If your student did not have their picture taken, Retake Day will be Oct. 22.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Regular Uniform

Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
Lord, we pray that your grace may always precede and follow us, that we may continually be given to good works; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

CGSAA Basketball
Registration for the CGSAA basketball season is now open for students in fourth through sixth grade. Registration closes Friday, Nov. 1, and practice begins the week of Nov. 18.

Register by clicking here.

There is a $50 registration fee, plus a fee for the uniform. If you have your uniform from last year, and it still fits, you are welcome to use it.

Once we have an idea of numbers we will determine what day of the week we will practice, which will likely be Monday or Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Games will take place on Saturdays and Sundays beginning the weekend of Dec. 7.

If you have any questions please contact Ann Palms.

Service Learning
To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
October 6
Dear Middle Division Families,

We passed the six week mark last Wednesday, and like always, Fall Break comes at just the right moment! For our students, the focus has shifted in their classes from review to learning and practicing new skills and knowledge. They’ve navigated preparing for and taking the first tests or major assessments of the year. It’s also possible they’ve done poorly on one of those assessments or forgotten a homework assignment.

While they may feel more comfortable with the rhythms and routines of the school day, they may also be experiencing more of the discomfort that naturally comes when they are faced with meeting a new expectation or learning something new. Learning is not linear and is often full of stops and starts. You might be hearing about how their classes are hard or how they don’t know how to do what’s being asked of them. This is normal and to be expected! I often remind students that no one expects them to know how to do a new skill or to understand a new concept right away, that’s the point of school. What we do expect is that they show up and show willingness. This takes consistent effort and energy, so it’s good to have these breaks to rest and reflect.

Here’s to a short week, and happy OU-TX weekend to all those who celebrate!

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Universal Screeners
Casady School will participate in universal social-emotional and behavioral (SEB) screenings as part of a larger effort to enhance the health and wellness of Casady students. Universal screening is a process for identifying strengths, needs, and useful information so that students can be better supported in interventions that prevent or reduce challenges and promote resiliency. Screenings in the school setting are not used for diagnostic purposes but will help us understand and monitor the social and emotional functioning of our students. Screenings will be completed on Oct. 15 and 17 for Middle Division and Oct. 22 for Upper Division.
The BASC-3 Behavioral and Emotional Screening System (BESS) will be used for Middle and Upper Divisions.
Upper and Middle Division screenings will be completed by the students and will take place during advisory.
You will be notified by a member of our Student Support Services team if the results indicate that your student could benefit from school-based interventions or parental consultation. If this is the case, our department will share the overall results with you and discuss ways you can get support for your child. You will not be contacted if your student is found not to need additional support.
Please complete this Casady SEB opt-out form if you do not want your student to be screened.
Reach out to Samantha Kobs with any questions.

Kid Frankenstein
Frightfully funny laughs are in store in this bright new version of Mary Shelley's classic Frankenstein - adapted just for kids to perform! Frankie and Irving are science nerds who have an unusual idea for the upcoming Science Fair. When Doctor Frankenstein's ancient secret book arrives from Transylvania, the friends are whisked into a sci-fi fantasy of time-warped, weirdly scary, and lively adventure!

Kid Frankenstein is provided by special arrangement with ArtReach Children’s Theatre Plays. Performances will be on Oct. 9-10 at 6:00 p.m. in Fee Theater. Tickets are free, so invite your family and friends, and come watch the fifth and sixth grade play!

Seventh Grade to Camp Shiloh
On Oct. 10, seventh grade students will spend the day at Camp Shiloh. The day's focus is team building, and students will participate in activities like a low ropes course, climbing walls, zip line, and kayaking. Students should come in spirit wear. We will leave after morning carpool and return in time for regular dismissal.

Coffee with Sara and Jake
Jake and I believe caring for our students is best done in partnership and conversation with our families. We also love to talk about all the amazing things happening in Middle Division, as well as the challenges and cheers of raising adolescents. If you have questions or just want to chat over coffee, join us on Oct. 25 in Benson Community Room after carpool. This will not be a formal presentation.

Navigating Online Risks
Seventh and eighth grade students heard a special presentation from the FBI about how to engage in digital communication responsibly and safely. To continue these conversations at home, here are a few talking points:

“I heard that there was a presentation from FBI agents the other day. What did you think? I heard that you learned about strangers on the internet who try to pressure kids to send photos or videos. That’s pretty scary stuff. Have you heard anything like that before?”

For those who couldn’t attend, here are a few main points that were shared during our Parent Connection Night.

Upper Division Open House - Invitation for Eighth Grade Families
Casady School presents an Open House for students and families interested in learning more about Casady School and Upper Division.

This is not just for prospective families; current eighth grade families are encouraged to attend!

This fun and informational event features student-guided tours around Casady’s Upper Division campus and an opportunity to learn about our academic offerings and curriculum from department chairs and faculty members. Attendees will select from several informational sessions covering Athletics, College Counseling, and our interactive Maker Space before closing with a student panel covering Clubs, Extracurriculars, social activities, and a Q&A.

Upper Division Open House
Sunday, Oct. 27
2:00-4:00 p.m.

Due to the nature of this event, we ask that you arrive and check in at 2:00 p.m. so we can promptly begin tours. Register today by clicking here.

Yearbook Photos, Ordering, and Retakes
Photos were taken on Sept. 10, but you can still order them online. The code is Casady24. If your student did not have their picture taken, Retake Day will be Oct. 22.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Spirit Day

Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
Almighty and everlasting God, you are always more ready to hear than we to pray, and to give more than we either desire or deserve: Pour upon us the abundance of your mercy, forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things for which we are not worthy to ask, except through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ our Savior; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

CGSAA Basketball
Registration for the CGSAA basketball season is now open for students in fourth through sixth grade. Registration closes Friday, Nov. 1, and practice begins the week of Nov. 18.

Register by clicking here.

There is a $50 registration fee, plus a fee for the uniform. If you have your uniform from last year, and it still fits, you are welcome to use it.

Once we have an idea of numbers we will determine what day of the week we will practice, which will likely be Monday or Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Games will take place on Saturdays and Sundays beginning the weekend of Dec. 7.

If you have any questions please contact Ann Palms.

Service Learning
To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
September 29
Dear Middle Division Families,

We enjoyed visiting with you at our Parent-Advisor conferences on Friday! Supporting your students is best done in partnership, and we look forward to continuing to build these relationships throughout the year.

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Navigating Online Risks
Seventh and eighth grade students heard a special presentation from the FBI about how to engage in digital communication responsibly and safely. To continue these conversations at home, here are a few talking points:

“I heard that there was a presentation from FBI agents the other day. What did you think? I heard that you learned about strangers on the internet who try to pressure kids to send photos or videos. That’s pretty scary stuff. Have you heard anything like that before?”

For those who couldn’t attend, here are a few main points that were shared during our Parent Connection Night.

Seventh Grade to Camp Shiloh
On Oct. 10, seventh grade students will spend the day at Camp Shiloh. The day's focus is team building, and students will participate in activities like a low ropes course, climbing walls, zip line, and kayaking. Students should come in spirit wear. We will leave after morning carpool and return in time for regular dismissal.

Yearbook Photos, Ordering, and Retakes
Photos were taken on Sept. 10, but you can still order them online. The code is Casady24. If your student did not have their picture taken, Retake Day will be Oct. 22.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Day

Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
O God, you declare your almighty power chiefly in showing mercy and pity: Grant us the fullness of your grace, that we, running to obtain your promises, may become partakers of your heavenly treasure; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

CGSAA Basketball
Registration for the CGSAA basketball season is now open for students in fourth through sixth grade. Registration closes Friday, Nov. 1, and practice begins the week of Nov. 18.

Register by clicking here.

There is a $50 registration fee, plus a fee for the uniform. If you have your uniform from last year, and it still fits, you are welcome to use it.

Once we have an idea of numbers we will determine what day of the week we will practice, which will likely be Monday or Wednesday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Games will take place on Saturdays and Sundays beginning the weekend of Dec. 7.

If you have any questions please contact Ann Palms.

This Week in Soul Craft
Fifth and Sixth Grade
This week’s lesson will introduce your student to guiding principles—the things that are most important to people that help them make decisions. Your student will learn about 10 common guiding principles and discuss how guiding principles can help them understand behavior, including their own.
Conversation Starter - Tell your student about something important to you that you consider one of your guiding principles. Ask them to name some guiding principles that they found interesting or feel strongly about.
Seventh and Eighth Grade
In this week’s lesson, your student will learn about factors that shape and influence self-concept, including less obvious factors, such as comparison with others, messages in media, and what they believe others think about them.
Conversation Starter: Tell your student about something that shapes or influences the way you see yourself. Ask them what shapes or influences their self-concept and which influences help them feel good about who they are.

Service Learning Corner
The Casady Service Learning Program aligns with the School's mission statement. We strive to develop excellence, confidence, and integrity in Middle Division students. Service learning empowers Cyclones to engage their mind, body, and spirit to make a positive difference in their community and world.

Middle Division students are encouraged to give back to the community. Throughout the year age-appropriate service opportunities will be posted. A monthly service idea will also be suggested for interested families. Please email any service-related concerns to omeliaa@casady.org.

To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
September 22
Dear Middle Division Families,

Last week, sixth grade students traveled to Camp Goddard for their annual class retreat. Being outside, cabin life, the hikes, lake activities, and play become part of their shared story that helps to knit each class together. These experiences also allow our students, teachers, and parent chaperones to get to know one another in a different environment. For each grade level, the teaching teams strive to design engaging and enriching extra-curricular activities that complement each group of students' academic, character, and social development work. These class trips are one example of this goal. We look forward to sending the fifth grade off later this week!

We also had a great time celebrating Homecoming with our first Chapel Chalk of the year and an awesome Pep Rally! We hope that you were able to join in the festivities; these kinds of days are a great reminder of how wonderful it is to be a part of our Casady Community! #foreveracyclone!

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

A Note from Student Support Services
As part of our ongoing commitment to prevention and wellness, our seventh and eighth grade students will hear from FBI special agents this Thursday, Sept. 26, to receive advice and information to help protect themselves from dangers in both the online and offline worlds. Our goal is to empower students with the knowledge and tools to engage in digital communication responsibly and safely.

All Casady families are invited and encouraged to hear from the same presenters the evening before on Wednesday at 5:45 p.m. in Fee Theater.

Yearbook Photos, Ordering, and Retakes
Photos were taken on Sept. 10, but you can still order them online. The code is Casady24. If your student did not have their picture taken, Retake Day will be Oct. 22.

Fifth Grade Retreat
The adventure will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 25, with a return on Thursday, Sept. 26. The waiver for St. Crispin’s is available at this link. Reach out to Mme. Eck or Mrs. Scoville with questions.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Privilege day
If your student has had less than three infractions, they may come in Privilege Day Attire. School rules still apply to what may be worn, i.e., no crop tops, crocs, garb with profane language, etc.

Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
Grant us, Lord, not to be anxious about earthly things, but to love things heavenly; and even now, while we are placed among things that are passing away, to hold fast to those that shall endure; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

This Week in Soul Craft
Fifth and Sixth Grade
This week’s lesson will introduce your student to guiding principles—the things that are most important to people that help them make decisions. Your student will learn about 10 common guiding principles and discuss how guiding principles can help them understand behavior, including their own.
Conversation Starter - Tell your student about something important to you that you consider one of your guiding principles. Ask them to name some guiding principles that they found interesting or feel strongly about.
Seventh and Eighth Grade
In this week’s lesson, your student will learn about factors that shape and influence self-concept, including less obvious factors, such as comparison with others, messages in media, and what they believe others think about them.
Conversation Starter: Tell your student about something that shapes or influences the way you see yourself. Ask them what shapes or influences their self-concept and which influences help them feel good about who they are.

Service Learning Corner
The Casady Service Learning Program aligns with the School's mission statement. We strive to develop excellence, confidence, and integrity in Middle Division students. Service learning empowers Cyclones to engage their mind, body, and spirit to make a positive difference in their community and world.

Middle Division students are encouraged to give back to the community. Throughout the year age-appropriate service opportunities will be posted. A monthly service idea will also be suggested for interested families. Please email any service-related concerns to omeliaa@casady.org.

To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
September 15
Dear Middle Division Families,

Thank you to all who attended Parent Information Night. It was wonderful to see everyone, and I hope you gained a better understanding of your student's classroom experience and coursework.

Looking ahead, we have a lot happening in September. The sixth grade students will be going on their annual class trip to Camp Goddard this Thursday and Friday. Additionally, we'll be celebrating Homecoming this Friday; we hope to see you all there to support our Cyclones! Next week, the fifth grade students will attend Camp Crispin, and we will have Advisory-Teacher Conferences on Friday, Sept. 27. The school year is officially underway, and we look forward to the next couple of weeks!

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

This Week in Soul Craft
Welcome back to Soul Craft! The reason our curriculum is called 2nd Step is because a student's family is the 1st Step in his or her development as a person. Families help us to build our values, beliefs, and priorities. The goal of 2nd Step is to help students think about their goal setting, mindsets, stress relief, and working well with others. As we discuss topics in Soul Craft, parents will receive Conversation Starters from the team each week to help keep the conversation and growth going at home.

Fifth and Sixth Grade
This week’s lesson is about “Helping New Students.” Students will use empathy skills to identify why some students feel nervous when they’re starting Middle Division. Students will identify ways they can help new students feel welcome and comfortable at School.

Conversation Starter - How can you be a leader and help make Casady a welcoming place for all students?

Seventh and Eighth Grade
This week’s specific lesson concerns self-concept and developing a strong sense of self that helps us live out our values and begin managing outside pressures that attempt to lead us away from those values.

Conversation Starter - Tell your student about the way you see yourself. Describe different aspects of your self-concept, such as the way you see yourself at work vs. at home. Ask your student to describe their self-concept, including how they see themselves emotionally, physically, socially, or at School.

Yearbook Photos, Ordering, and Retakes
Photos were taken last Tuesday, but you can still order them online. The code is Casady24. If your student did not have their picture taken, Retake Day will be Oct. 22.

Fifth Grade Retreat
The Fifth Grade Team is excited to embark on our annual overnight camping trip to St. Crispin's Campground in Wewoka! The adventure will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 25, with a return on Thursday, Sept. 26. The waiver for St. Crispin’s is available at this link. Reach out to Mme. Eck or Mrs. Scoville with questions.

Sixth Grade Retreat
The sixth grade will go on their annual overnight camping trip on Thursday, Sept. 19, and return on Friday, Sept. 20. We have secured Goddard Youth Camp, a year-round campground at the Lake of the Arbuckles in Sulphur. This trip is part of the sixth grade Earth and Space Science curriculum and will cover portions of both geology and astronomy units. Reach out to Mr. Oldham or Ms. Walk with questions.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Day
Students should be wearing Casady Spirit attire: Casady-branded clothing, House Spirit Wear, solid blue and white clothing articles, or school uniform.

Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
O God, because without you we are not able to please you, mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Service Learning Corner
The Casady Service Learning Program aligns with the School's mission statement. We strive to develop excellence, confidence, and integrity in Middle Division students. Service learning empowers Cyclones to engage their mind, body, and spirit to make a positive difference in their community and world.

Middle Division students are encouraged to give back to the community. Throughout the year age-appropriate service opportunities will be posted. A monthly service idea will also be suggested for interested families. Please email any service-related concerns to omeliaa@casady.org.

To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
September 8
Dear Middle Division Families,

Please join us this Thursday, Sept. 12, for Middle Division Parent Information Night. Upon arrival, you will be given your student’s schedule so that you can experience their classes and hear directly from your student’s teachers. Doors will open at 5:45 p.m., and period 1 will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m.! We look forward to seeing you, and don't be late to first period!

MyCasady Reminders
You can see your student’s academic progress by clicking the “Progress” tab and expanding the “See Grade Details” button for each class.
Make sure grades are set to "View" and not "Hide"
Sixth, seventh, and eighth grades are populating in the grade book. I encourage you over the next week to take a look at your student’s with your student and have a conversation about how things are going.
MyCasady has made some changes to their assignment center. If you or your student see the “overdue” notification, it means the due date has passed and a grade has not been placed in MyCasady. It is not an indication that the work is missing. However, if there is an "M" for missing or a zero score, that assignment has not been turned in, and it will be addressed between the teacher and student.
It’s a good practice to set a regular time to review schedules, assignments, and grades with your students. This helps them develop their own habits and accountability routines as well as eliminate “gotcha” or “panic” moments in the car or late at night! Remember, managing homework, talking to teachers, preparing for class is all a learning process for students and will likely be messy, and that’s ok!

Lastly, this week is our Fall Safety Week. We will practice Fire, Tornado, and Lockdown Drills.

We’ll see you Thursday!

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Responsible Use Reminder
Students heard from Mrs. Kobs and Mr. King last week who reviewed our Gaggle Safety System and the Casady Responsible Use Policy (RUP). In advisory, they were able to discuss these topics in more detail and ask questions. Additionally, all students were asked to sign the RUP. If you have any questions, please contact Jeremy King.

SoulCraft Kickoff this Wednesday!
As we have in years past, Student Support Services collaborates with our campus clergy to customize our Social Emotional Learning curriculum, which includes lessons from Second Step, to address and meet the current support needs of our students. Throughout this school year, students in Middle Division will be diving deeper into the following areas:
Mindset and Goals
Developing a Positive Sense of Self
Thoughts, Emotions, and Decisions
Managing Relationships and Social Conflict
Each week, the SoulCraft topic will be included in Division Notes, along with some follow-up discussion questions should you wish to continue the conversation at home with your student. We are so thankful to partner with families as we help students grow and navigate their relationships with family and friends!

Yearbook Photos
Picture Day for Middle Division is this Tuesday, Sept. 10. Order forms for the photos are available in the office or you can order online.

Fifth Grade Retreat
The Fifth Grade Team is excited to embark on our annual overnight camping trip to St. Crispin's Campground in Wewoka! The adventure will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 25, with a return on Thursday, Sept. 26. The waiver for St. Crispin’s is available at this link. Reach out to Mme. Eck or Mrs. Scoville with questions.

Sixth Grade Retreat
The sixth grade will go on their annual overnight camping trip on Thursday, Sept. 19, and return on Friday, Sept. 20. We have secured Goddard Youth Camp, a year-round campground at the Lake of the Arbuckles in Sulphur. This trip is part of the sixth grade Earth and Space Science curriculum and will cover portions of both geology and astronomy units. Reach out to Mr. Oldham or Ms. Walk with questions.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday - Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Day
Students should be wearing Casady Spirit attire: Casady-branded clothing, House Spirit Wear, solid blue and white clothing articles, or school uniform.

Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
Grant us, O Lord, to trust in you with all our hearts; for, as you always resist the proud who confide in their own strength, so you never forsake those who make their boast of your mercy; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Service Learning Corner
The Casady Service Learning Program aligns with the School's mission statement. We strive to develop excellence, confidence, and integrity in Middle Division students. Service learning empowers Cyclones to engage their mind, body, and spirit to make a positive difference in their community and world.

Middle Division students are encouraged to give back to the community. Throughout the year age-appropriate service opportunities will be posted. A monthly service idea will also be suggested for interested families. Please email any service-related concerns to omeliaa@casady.org.

To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
September 2
Dear Middle Division Families,

School is well and truly underway! As we move into September, we wanted to highlight a few key pieces of information.
Let the games begin! We sorted our Houses last Friday! Now that all new students and faculty are sorted, we will begin to look toward our first round of competitions. Houses earn points through competition, character points, and involvement in service activities. Our prefects are hard at work planning fun activities, and our first event will be focused on getting to know our fellow house members. Currently, Woolsey House is in the lead.
As we continue to learn routines, one of the biggest adjustments is lunch. Family-style lunch is a beloved hallmark of our community, and it’s a lot to get used to in the beginning! All students are assigned a lunch table, and each table has a faculty member. Students from all four grades are randomly assigned a table, and we rotate approximately every two weeks. We do this so that no student has to walk into lunch and wonder where and with whom they’re going to sit, and by shuffling the grades, we hope to build community and encourage students to build relationships with faculty members as well as beyond their friend group and grade-level peers.
Carpool continues to improve, and we thank you for your continued patience, grace, and good humor. The safety of our students is paramount, so please help us by remembering the following:
Please refrain from being on your phone in our carpool lanes.
The middle lane is for moving traffic. Students will load cars in the designated carpool lane closest to McClendon Building and inside the circle by the flagpole.
Don’t forget you can exit campus through the delivery entrance by the tennis courts!
Please do not park and/or leave your car in the carpool lane during carpool times.
Remember to pull all the way up!
We look forward to seeing you all at our Back to School Parent Night on Thursday, Sept. 12, 6:00-7:30 p.m. You will have the opportunity to meet your student’s advisor and teachers and learn about their classes.
Eighth grade parents, please watch your email next week for more information related to our Signature Trip to Washington D.C. in March!

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

House Spirit Shirts
This summer, the Casady Cupboard has worked with a vendor for new house designs for our Middle Division students. Because houses are unique to the Middle Division and sizes are across the board, we felt the best way to share these designs would be through a pre-order!

Shirts are available through Casady Cupboard using this link. The pre-order will close on Friday, Sept. 6. All items purchased will be available for pickup from Casady Cupboard after Friday, Sept. 13. This might be the only time of year we offer pre-orders for house designs. We will continue to stock some house options; however, to guarantee a student gets the size and style he or she wants, please purchase through the pre-order.

Also, students are allowed to wear house tees, hoodies, and sweatshirts on Spirit Days as well as their regular Casady spirit wear. Hoodies are considered uniform apparel!

We hope these designs and options will add to the excitement of future house events and competitions! It’s so fun and the kids love it!

Fifth Grade Retreat
The Fifth Grade Team is excited to embark on our annual overnight camping trip to St. Crispin's Campground in Wewoka! The adventure will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 25, with a return on Thursday, Sept. 26. The waiver for St. Crispin’s is available at this link.

During the trip, students will enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, archery, team-building exercises, and more. Students will stay in comfortable cabins, with a parent chaperone or teacher supervising each group at all times. We’re grateful to our dedicated teachers and parent volunteers who will be joining us as chaperones. More detailed information about camp will be provided as the date approaches. We can’t wait for this memorable experience!

Sixth Grade Retreat
The sixth grade will go on their annual overnight camping trip on Thursday, Sept. 19, and return on Friday, Sept. 20. We have secured Goddard Youth Camp, a year-round campground at the Lake of the Arbuckles in Sulphur. This trip is part of the sixth grade Earth and Space Science curriculum and will cover portions of both geology and astronomy units. There will be hiking, swimming, archery, boating, fishing, team building, and other outdoor activities. More detailed information about camp will be provided in the upcoming weeks.

Circle the State
All fourth through sixth grade students are welcome to audition to participate in the Circle the State with Song Music Festival! Circle the State is an opportunity for exceptional young singers to work with guest choral clinicians on challenging music with other students from across the Oklahoma City Metro area. Please see the attached link for audition and rehearsal information.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Day

Collect for the Coming Week in Chapel
Lord of all power and might, the author and giver of all good things: Graft in our hearts the love of your Name; increase in us true religion; nourish us with all goodness; and bring forth in us the fruit of good works; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.

Amen.

Service Learning Corner
The Casady Service Learning Program aligns with the School's mission statement. We strive to develop excellence, confidence, and integrity in Middle Division students. Service learning empowers Cyclones to engage their mind, body, and spirit to make a positive difference in their community and world.

Middle Division students are encouraged to give back to the community. Throughout the year age-appropriate service opportunities will be posted. A monthly service idea will also be suggested for interested families. Please email any service-related concerns to omeliaa@casady.org.

To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
August 25
Dear Middle Division Families,

Time is a funny thing. It can be paradoxical in that it can often feel both short and long simultaneously, leading to a somewhat contradictory perception of its passing. For instance, what if I were to tell you that we have 271 days before the last day of school? What was your initial reaction upon reading that?

For many students, that is an eternity. Teachers may feel that it's just enough time to cover and teach all the necessary concepts and skills of their course. For you as parents, it may just seem like another school year. However, if you have an eighth grader, they are only one year away from… High School (shudders). Or, dare I say it, a senior, in which case time may feel as if it is fleeing before your very eyes.

So, what do we do with the 271 days before us? We cherish them. I’m not saying each day will be great–it won’t; it's Middle School, but I can tell you, that the times ahead are precious and will develop into the core memories and formative experiences that define and shape your child’s being. As we navigate through the days ahead of us, let's remember to enjoy the journey, learn from each day lived, and appreciate the moments we have with each other. Time may be paradoxical, but the way we embrace it can make all the difference in our lives.

Be Well,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Parent Information Meeting for Eighth Grade: D.C. Trip
Please join us Tuesday, Aug. 27, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Fee Theater for a parent information night discussing our inaugural eighth grade Washington, D.C. Trip. For parents who cannot attend, the presentation will be shared after the meeting.

Orientation Slide Deck
In case you missed it, here are the Orientation Slides from Monday. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out!

Fifth Grade Retreat
The fifth grade is excited to embark on their annual overnight camping trip to St. Crispin's Campground in Wewoka, OK! The adventure will begin on Wednesday, September 25, with a return on Thursday, September 26.

During the trip, students will enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, archery, team-building exercises, and more. Students will stay in comfortable cabins, with a parent chaperone or teacher supervising each group at all times. We’re grateful to our dedicated teachers and parent volunteers who will be joining us as chaperones. More detailed information about camp will be provided as the date approaches. We can’t wait for this memorable experience!

Sixth Grade Retreat
The sixth grade will go on their annual overnight camping trip on Thursday, Sept. 19, and return on Friday, September 20. We have secured Goddard Youth Camp, a year-round campground at the Lake of the Arbuckles in Sulphur, Oklahoma. This trip is part of the sixth grade Earth and Space Science curriculum and will cover portions of both geology and astronomy units. There will be hiking, swimming, archery, boating, fishing, teambuilding, and other outdoor activities. More detailed information about camp will be provided in the upcoming weeks.

Circle the State
All fourth-sixth grade students are welcome to audition to participate in the Circle the State with Song Music Festival! Circle the State is an opportunity for exceptional young singers to work with guest choral clinicians on challenging music with other students from across the OKC Metro area. Please see the attached link for audition and rehearsal information.

2024-25 After School Care Registration
Registration for After School Care is now open. Families can register for these programs through the Extended Programs Registration on MyCasady. For more information, click here, or contact Extended Programs Manager Joella Pearson.

August Schools
If you have not done so yet, please fill out the consent forms found on August Schools. This can be found on MyCasady. If you have questions, please contact healthservices@casady.org.

Carpool Reminders
We know that sitting in carpool can try the patience of a saint! We all want the same thing: to ensure your student is connected to their car as safely and efficiently as possible. Please be sure you are communicating with your student about pick-up times and following the directions of the faculty and security staff on duty. Thank you for your patience and goodwill; remember, we are all in this together! Please remember the following expectations.
Pull All The Way Up. It helps everyone move through the line faster!
Please review your pick-up plan and time with your student(s) so they know if they should anticipate waiting in After School Care, looking for you at walk-up, or finding your car in the line.
Parents of Lower Division students waiting at walk-up: please do not allow your students to run across the street to play on the grass or basketball court during carpool.
Do not park and leave your car in the circle.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.
Monday Regular Uniform
Tuesday - Regular Uniform
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - House Spirit Day Attire. Please remember that spirit days are designed to celebrate our wonderful Casady community. If you have not been sorted into a house, regular Spirit Day.
Service Learning Corner
The Casady Service Learning Program aligns with the mission statement. We strive to develop excellence, confidence, and integrity in Middle Division students. Service learning empowers Cyclones to engage their mind, body, and spirit to make a positive difference in their community and world.

Middle Division students are encouraged to give back to the community. Throughout the year age-appropriate service opportunities will be posted. A monthly service idea will also be suggested for interested families. Please email any service-related concerns to omeliaa@casady.org.

To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.
August 18
Dear Middle Division Families,

Welcome to a new school year!

We all have a lot of feelings about School. Everyone has a story, a moment, a friend, a teacher that shaped them in some way, for better or for worse.

The beginning of school can be an exciting time, but for many it brings lots of questions as well: Will I get along with my classmates? Who will be my people? Will I still have the same friends? What am I good at? What if <insert class> is hard? What will my teachers be like?

These questions are amplified for new students starting at a new school. It’s normal to feel stress or worry this time of year; transitions are hard and those are reasonable. Dr. Lisa Damour talks about the right kind of stress or anxiety, the kind that helps keep us alert and gives us an edge as we move into a test or challenging moment. Taking the time to talk to our kids about going back to school, getting their supplies, preparing a workspace, establishing routines, talking realistically about what to expect can help ensure that the stress or anxiety our kids feel is the right kind, the right amount. Most importantly, it allows them to enjoy the fun, the possibilities, and the excitement of a new school year.

Each year I find myself saying, with greater consternation, “Where does the time go?” My hope for you this summer, as the days rushed by, is that you found time to be still, time to enjoy being together, time away, time to laugh, and time to refresh. We are certainly looking forward to having students back on campus and are excited to see you all in the carpool line! Remember to pull all the way up!

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Back to School Information and Orientation
Orientation Day for all grades will be tomorrow, Monday, Aug. 19. Students will receive their schedules, have time to meet their teachers and advisory groups, review building and technology procedures and plans for the year, and organize their materials.

Orientation Times
Seventh and Eighth Grade:
8:15-9:30 a.m.
Parents and Students will begin in Fee together.
Sixth Grade:
11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Parents and Students will begin in Chapel together.
Fifth Grade:
1:00-3:00 p.m.
Parents and Students will begin in Fee together.
Eighth Grade Community Building Activity
Immediately following student orientation, eighth grade students will travel to Threshold Climbing to participate in team-building activities and enjoy time together. They will return to campus for lunch and locker set up, and be ready for pick up at 1:00 p.m. Please contact Fiona Vincent-Diaz or Elizabeth Bertels with any questions. If you’ve not done so already, please complete this Threshold Visitation Agreement and submit it online. Select the “New Adult with Minor” option. Students will not be allowed to participate without this completed form.

2024-25 After School Care Registration
Registration for After School Care is now open. Families can register for these programs through the Extended Programs Registration on MyCasady. For more information, click here, or contact Extended Programs Manager Joella Pearson.

August Schools
If you have not done so yet, please fill out the consent forms found on August Schools. This can be found on MyCasady. If you have questions, please contact healthservices@casady.org.

Carpool Reminders
We know that sitting in carpool can try the patience of a saint! We all want the same thing: to ensure your student is connected to their car as safely and efficiently as possible. Please be sure you are communicating with your student about pick-up times and following the directions of the faculty and security staff on duty. Thank you for your patience and goodwill; remember, we are all in this together! Please remember the following expectations.
Pull All The Way Up. It helps everyone move through the line faster!
Please review your pick-up plan and time with your student(s) so they know if they should anticipate waiting in After School Care, looking for you at walk-up, or finding your car in the line.
Parents of Lower Division students waiting at walk-up: please do not allow your students to run across the street to play on the grass or basketball court during carpool.
Do not park and leave your car in the circle.

This Week’s Uniform Reminders
Your student must be in proper uniform each day. Thank you for partnering with us and helping your student to meet these expectations.

Monday (Orientation) - Fifth-Seventh grade will be in normal clothes. Eighth graders will need athletic clothing for rock climbing.
Tuesday - No School!
Wednesday - Regular Uniform
Thursday - Regular Uniform
Friday - Spirit Day.
Please remember that spirit days are designed to celebrate our wonderful Casady Community. We expect students to adhere to the “spirit” of the day by being in Casady branded clothing or blue and white. they may choose to wear their uniform.

Service Learning Corner
The Casady Service Learning Program aligns with the mission statement. We strive to develop excellence, confidence, and integrity in Middle Division students. Service learning empowers Cyclones to engage their mind, body, and spirit to make a positive difference in their community and world.

Middle Division students are encouraged to give back to the community. Throughout the year age-appropriate service opportunities will be posted. A monthly service idea will also be suggested for interested families. Please email any service-related concerns to omeliaa@casady.org.

To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.

Middle Division Events
Please make a habit of reading the Sunday Division Notes. We include important division information as well as details concerning all division events. The main calendar on MyCasady will also be updated with important Middle Division dates.

Save the Date
August
Monday, Aug. 19 - Orientation Day
Wednesday, Aug. 21 - First Day of Classes
Thursday, Aug. 22 - Fifth and Sixth Grade Play “Kid Frankenstein” Auditions
3:45-5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 27 - Eighth Grade Washington, D.C. Trip Parent Information Session
5:30 p.m.
September
Monday, Sept. 2 - Labor Day, No School
Tuesday, Sept. 10 - School Picture Day
Thursday, Sept. 12 - Back to School Parent Night
5:30 p.m.
Sept. 19-20 - Sixth Grade Class Retreat
Friday, Sept. 20 - Homecoming
Friday, Sept. 27 - Parent-Advisor Conference Day
October
Oct. 9-10 - Fifth and Sixth Grade Play “Kid Frankenstein”
August 4
Dear Middle Division Families,

We hope this finds you in good health, enjoying days of peace as well as fun times with family and friends. While still a ways off, we are anticipating the start of school and want to provide you with information to help in the summer-to-school transition.

Much of the important information for the upcoming academic year is available on MyCasady, including the most up-to-date calendar, and can be found by logging into MyCasady and navigating to the “MD Forms and Resources” tab. If you have difficulty finding any forms or back-to-school information on the website or have questions, please contact Mrs. Goodwin in the Middle Division office.

Summer To-Do List
Medical Forms: Please ensure that you have completed all required medical forms through August Schools. You can access August Schools through the Resources page on MyCasady.
Summer Reading: Middle Division students should be reading their Summer Reading books. Summer Reading requirements are listed on the Summer Reading page of the Casady website.
School Supplies: Each grade’s supply list is posted on the MyCasady “MD Forms and Resources” Board. Pre-ordered supply kits from 1st Day School Supplies will be delivered to the pods by Orientation on Aug. 19.
School Books: Middle Division textbooks are available from the online bookstore and accessed from the MyCasady “MD Forms and Resources” Board. Note: Some resources, like novels for English, will be given to the students during the school year and book-billed.
Uniforms: Uniforms are available for purchase through Flynn O’Hara. We appreciate you taking the time to read and review the Uniform Guidelines with your student. We also have some gently used uniforms in the MD office, so come on by! The Athletic Department hands out PE uniforms on the first day of school.
Casady Cupboard: Casady Cupboard is online and open in Calvert. This is the place to buy Casady spirit wear and other branded items. It will be open during Orientation, 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
MyCasady: Double-check that you and your student can log in to MyCasady. This will give you access to a variety of resources and, once school starts, your student's academic information and progress. Email helpdesk@casady.org with any questions.

Back to School Information and Orientation
Orientation Day for all grades will be Monday, Aug. 19.
Middle Division Orientations are information sessions for both parents and students followed by student only programming led by grade level teams. Students will meet their advisors, set up their lockers, get their schedules, and have the opportunity to reconnect with their peers and ask questions about the upcoming year.

Orientation Times
Seventh and Eighth Grade
8:15-10:00 a.m.
Parents should plan to be in Fee Theater from 8:15-9:30 a.m.
Eighth graders will participate in a team-building activity at Threshold Climbing and have lunch on campus. They will be done around 1:30 p.m. Please watch for an email with more details and a waiver.
Sixth Grade
11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Parents should plan to attend in St. Edward's Chapel 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Fifth Grade
1:00-3:00 p.m.
Parents should plan to be in Fee Theater from 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Locker Supplies and Set-Up
1st Day School Supplies will be delivered to the pods by Orientation. As your student shops for locker decorations and supplies, please keep in mind that our lockers are wooden. Students may not use adhesives to attach decorations to their lockers.

Enjoy your final days of summer; we look forward to seeing you in the carpool line!

In this together,
Sara Zedlitz
Middle Division Director
zedlitzs@casady.org Jake Staats
Middle Division Assistant Director
staatsj@casady.org

Please review our Middle Division Parent and Student Handbook with your student.

Smart Devices
To protect our student's attention and focus, encourage community, and foster a culture of play and connection, Middle Division is a cellphone/smartwatch-free building. We recognize that constant social media and text notifications are distracting and have the potential to create additional anxiety; therefore, students may not use or wear smartwatches or smartphones. All smart devices, including smartwatches, must remain off and in backpacks during the Middle Division day. Students will only be allowed to use their devices after 4:00 p.m. to facilitate pickup.

McClendon Middle Division Building Security
Each day, our exterior doors are locked intermittently during peak capacity times. All faculty have ID badges to unlock all doors. All visitors are required to check in at the Welcome Center and gain entrance through the main doors and check in with Mrs. Goodwin.

Vehicle Identification for Controlled Access to Campus
Casady School has a vehicle identification system. The purpose of this policy is for the School to be able to recognize vehicles connected to our community and aid in our Visitor Management system. All vehicles shall display a School issued front windshield decal when coming on campus during the school day. Visitors driving vehicles that do not display a 2024-25 decal will be asked to check in with our Welcome Center. Visitors will be given directions to their destination and asked to check in with the appropriate Division office or building for their visitor ID badge. Decals are available at the Middle Division office.

Morning Drop Off, Dismissal, and After School Care
Morning Drop Off
Students should arrive between 7:40-7:55 a.m. Early care starts at 7:30 a.m. Please do not drop off students before 7:30 a.m.

On Wednesdays, students should arrive between 8:40-8:55 a.m. Early care is provided to families between 7:30-8:00 a.m. Early care will occur in Calvert Hall and will be monitored by a faculty or staff member. Please do not drop off students before 7:30 a.m. The building will not be open or monitored until 7:30 a.m.

Dismissal: Traffic and Carpool Plan
Please plan to use the MD carpool circle for all pick-ups. Middle Division students may not be picked up at Bennett or the UD campus. Thank you for your cooperation, patience, and flexibility!
Fifth and sixth graders are dismissed at 3:40 p.m.
Seventh and eighth graders are dismissed immediately after sports between 3:45-3:55 p.m.

After School Care Program
We provide supervised After School Care until 6:00 p.m. for students, in fifth through eighth grade. After School Care begins in McClendon Middle Division building, at 4:00 p.m. All students remaining in McClendon at 5:00 p.m. will be walked to the Learning Center. All students must be picked up from After School Care no later than 6:00 p.m. There will be a $1 per minute late fee charged to your account for any pickups occurring after 6:00 p.m. The late fee will be billed to your Blackbaud account and added to your next monthly payment. Registration will be through the Extended Programs portal on the MyCasady Resource Board. Registration is now open.

Cyclone Express
Cyclone Express uses the same Extended Programs registration platform as all After School Care programs. Registration for the Cyclone Express closed on Aug. 1. Please contact Joella Pearson if you have questions about transportation for your student.

CPO Representatives
We are very thankful for the volunteer service of our grade-level CPO representatives. We meet together regularly, and they are an excellent resource for you throughout the year. Watch for their emails. Please feel free to contact your grade rep if you have any “Back to School” questions.
Middle Division Chair - Dini Homsey
Fifth Grade - Rachel Huchton
Sixth Grade - Jennifer Cruzan
Seventh Grade - Cherish Ralls
Eighth Grade - Amy Fischer

Service Learning Corner
To view service ideas, click here. For a list of service learning opportunities, click here.

Middle Division Notes

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