A few new families have joined us this semester.We offer a special welcome to our new students and hope they feel welcome at CDS.

We are also pleased to welcome Dr. Luis Wachong as ournew elementary counselor. Dr. Wachong received his degrees from Wesleyan University in Connecticut and the California School of Professional Psychology. He graduated from Country Day School in 1997. Dr. Wachong has eight years experience in mental health and counseling services in California. His enthusiasm and expertise will be a great addition to the elementary school.

This morning, I reviewed with students the uniform policy and want to let you know what I have told the students.

On the days when the students have Physical Education, they are required to wear the following uniform:

• Red shorts, leggings, sweatpants or skort

• White Book Month, Fun Run, or collarless gym t-shirt.

• Tennis shoes (any color)

• Red or white sweatshirt or sweater (optional)

On the days when the students do not have Physical Education on their agendas, they must wear the following uniform:

• Navy blue shorts, straight­cut pants or skort (no jeans)

• White polo shirt with CDS emblem on left breast

• Closed shoes or tennis shoes (No sandals or Crocs)

• Navy or white sweatshirt or sweater (optional)

• Any t-­shirts worn under the school shirt should be short sleeved and solid white

I wish to remind you of the upcoming events for the month of January:

Our theme for January in our Life Skills Program is “HONESTY.” We hope you will be able to provide your children with opportunities to demonstrate honesty at home and in the community. We look forward to our upcoming “Billy and Friends” performances to stress our monthly life skills themes.

The after school program for the second semester will begin on Monday, January 31. For the most part, all activities will remain the same as last semester. While many of the groups will remain the same as last semester, we ask that ALL children sign – up for the activities for the second semesterA list of all of the activities will be sent out next week.

As we begin a new semester, we will be electing a new student council to allow more students an opportunity to participate in student government. On Wednesday, January 26, we will hold student council elections for the students in the 2^nd and 3^rd grades as well as in the 4^th and 5th grades. Petitions will be sent out on Tuesday, January 25. Students will vote on Wednesday morning after the presidential candidates give their speeches.

We appreciate your cooperation in sending written communication for changes of transportation. Please be sure to send these requests for changes to Sylvia Espinach before 10:00 a.m. We are pleased with your efforts in making sure your child arrives to school before 8:00 a.m. to be prepared for the morning classes.

We are looking forward to a great semester.

Happy New Year and welcome back!