Dear Parents, Guardians, Caregivers, and Students
This week, I want to highlight an important topic that continues to emerge as a cornerstone of well-being for people of all ages—sleep. Recently, the Calgary Board of Education shared with all of their administrators, an insightful video by Dr. Greg Wells, in which he outlines the "7 Keys to Sleeping Soundly" from his book The Ripple Effect. He emphasizes how better sleep can profoundly impact not only our health but also our learning, creativity, and overall quality of life.
Dr. Wells notes that sleep plays a foundational role in cognitive function, mental health, and physical recovery. Alarmingly, 25% of the population struggles with sleep disorders, which are linked to issues such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, obesity, and mental health challenges. However, with small, intentional changes, we can all improve our sleep and, in turn, our overall well-being.
Here are Dr. Wells’ practical tips for achieving deep, restorative sleep:
- Limit caffeine intake to the morning hours (avoid after 2 p.m.).
- Defend the last hour before bed: avoid screens to deactivate your mind.
- Create a dark and cool sleep environment, often called a “sleep cave.”
- Prioritize 7–8 hours of sleep per night.
- Use natural light to wake up naturally and start your day refreshed.
- Take short naps when needed: a 20-minute power nap or a 90-minute full-cycle nap. Skip the snooze button—just get up and start your day.
The research is clear: when we sleep better, every aspect of our lives improves. From learning and problem-solving to creativity and emotional resilience, sleep is the foundation.
I encourage you to think about the importance of sleep and consider how the implementation of some of these strategies as a family will be beneficial. Supporting your teenager in developing healthier sleep habits can have a profound ripple effect on their well-being and success.
Thank you for your continued partnership in nurturing the health and success of our students. Warm regards,
Anne Kromm Principal
Important Dates to Remember
Thursday January 23 - Last day Semester 1 for TASC, CSSI & Bridges
Tuesday January 28 - Semester 2 Starts
Wednesday January 29 - Central Memorial Open House 5:00 - 8:00
Friday January 31 - Non-Instructional Day - No School
Friday January 31 - U of C & CMSA - sign-up due by end of January Thursday February 13 & Friday February 14 - Teacher’s Convention - No School Monday February 17 - Family Day - No School
Wednesday February 19 - Perogy Fundraiser Orders Due Wednesday February 19 - Career Fair at Central 6:00 - 8:30
Saturday March 15 & Sunday March 16 - GRADitude Project @ St. Michael School
Yearbook Purchase Deadline - BEFORE Sunday April 27, 2025
** Monday January 27 - Parent/Student Access to Final Grades and Comments Report Card/Outcomes turned ON at 3:00 p.m.**
CMHS Sports
NO GAMES Due to Exam Break
Future School Events
Wednesday January 29 - CMHS Open House - 6:00
Sunday February 2 - Friday February 7– PVA New York Trip
Tuesday February 11 - Tuesdays with Teamy Scholarships Part Deux - Lunch & After School
Wednesday February 19 - Career Trades Fair - 3:30
Thursday February 20 - COS & Autobody Late Night– 4:00 - 7:00