Good Evening CMHS Parents, Caregivers, Students and Guardians,

Earlier today, I had the privilege of meeting with our Principal’s Student Advisory Committee. I left the conversation both inspired and thoughtful. It is well known that Central Memorial is a school with incredibly strong academic results and high-achieving students. However, today we discussed an important reality, that even in a high-performing environment, some students can still feel disconnected.

Together, we explored a central question: How do we ensure every student feels a true sense of belonging?

Students shared that belonging often begins with connection, both with peers and with trusted adults in the building. When students feel seen, known, and valued, they are far more likely to engage, attend regularly, and persevere through challenges. Conversely, when that sense of belonging is missing, students can begin to quietly disengage.

What stood out most was how strongly students value connection. They shared that belonging often begins with small, meaningful interactions, when a teacher takes a moment to ask about their weekend, notices their effort, or simply makes eye contact and acknowledges them. These moments, while simple, can make a significant difference. When students feel personally connected to someone in the building, they are much more likely to attend, engage, and persevere, even when learning becomes challenging.

Students also spoke about the importance of intentionally creating opportunities to build relationships within classrooms. Simple structures such as group work with new peers, thoughtful seating arrangements, and classroom setups that allow students to see and interact with one another can help foster connection, particularly for those who may not yet feel they have a place. Alongside this, there was a strong emphasis on the role of peer relationships. Ideas such as mentorship between grade levels, buddy systems, and study groups were seen as valuable ways to build both connection and accountability. Students recognize that they have an important role to play in supporting one another and encouraging their peers.

Another key theme was involvement. Students shared that when they are passionate about something, whether it be athletics, the arts, or clubs, they naturally feel a stronger sense of belonging. The conversation also highlighted the pressure many students feel, both academically and socially. Some students described a fear of failure or judgment that can lead them to withdraw rather than seek help. They reminded us of the importance of creating learning environments where it is safe to take risks, make mistakes, and grow. In addition, students expressed a need for clearer guidance around course planning and future pathways, as uncertainty about what comes next can impact both confidence and engagement.

Perhaps the most powerful was the shared understanding that creating a sense of belonging is everyone’s responsibility. Staff, students, and families all play a role in ensuring that no one slips through the cracks. Students spoke about the importance of looking out for one another, reaching out to peers who may be struggling, and showing compassion and care in their daily interactions.

This conversation reinforced an important truth: a student’s experience at school cannot be measured by grades alone. A stu-dent may be achieving at a high level and still feel disconnected, while another may be struggling academically but feel deeply supported and engaged. At Central Memorial, we remain committed to fostering both excellence and belonging, ensuring that every student feels seen, valued, and connected.

Thank you, as always, for your continued partnership in supporting our students. Have a wonderful Easter long weekend.

Anne Kromm

Principal

Important Dates to Remember

  • Monday April 6- SKILLS Bottle Drive Starts - Drop off everyday 8:00 - 4:30 (1:45 Fri) at CTC
  • Tuesday April 7 - Last Day to drop classes in S2
  • Thursday April 9 - Spring Sports Photos (Aux Gym - AM)
  • Monday April 13 - GRAD Speech Auditions Deadline
  • Tuesday April 14 - School Council Meeting 6:00 HUB
  • Wednesday April 15 - Commun-l-Tea - 5:00 Central Cafeteria
  • Friday April 24 - GRAD Speech Candidates Announced
  • Friday April 24 - NO SCHOOL Non-instruction Day
  • Tuesday April 28 - Cardiovascular Research Day (UCalgary Foothills Campus) 8:00 - 4:30
  • Friday May 1 - Monday June 15 - Multiple Deadlines for Education Matters Scholarships

CMHS Sports

  • Monday April 6 - Track & Field (100m/200m/400m/800m) Main Gym 7:45
  • Monday April 6 - Track & Field Long Distance PE Office 3:45 (Door Throws at lunch - Gym)
  • Tuesday April 7 - Field Hockey HW at CM Soccer Centre #3 5:00
  • Tuesday April 7 - Track & Field Long/Triple Jump AUX Gym 7:45 (Door Throws at lunch - Gym)
  • Wednesday April 8 - Track & Field (100m/200m/400m/800m) Main Gym 7:45
  • Wednesday April 8 - Boys Rugby WA at CM 4:45 (Door Throws at lunch - Gym)
  • Thursday April 9 - Track & Field Long Distance PE Office 3:45
  • Thursday April 9 - Girls Rugby CM at LB 4:45
  • Thursday April 9 - Track & Field High Jump AUX Gym 3:45

Future School Events

  • Monday April 6 - Friday April 10 - PVA Gr 12 Toronto Trip
  • Friday April 10 - Gr 10 Music Recital
  • Saturday April 11 - Gr 12 Music Recital
  • Thursday April 16 - COS & Autobody Late Night 4:00 - 7:00
  • Friday April 17 - Gr 11 Music Recital
  • Saturday April 18 - Band, Strings & Vocal Program Bottle Drive
  • Monday April 20 - Saturday April 25 - EEI Earth Day Bottle Drive
  • Tuesday April 21 - Saturday April 25 - Spring Play “Peter and the Star Catcher”
  • Tuesday April 28 - Choral Concert at Christ Church Calgary
  • Thursday April 30 - Friday May 2 - Amici String Festival
  • Monday May 4 - Orchestra Concert at St. Stephen’s 7:00 PM
  • Tuesday May 5 - Saturday May 9 - Spring Musical “Grease” 7:00 PM
  • Thursday May 7 - Band Concert at Rosza 7:00 - 9:00 PM
  • Friday May 15 - Centrals Got Talent (Act Submissions due April 29)