Good Evening Parents, Caregivers, Students and Guardians,
This week, we celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week — a time to recognize the extraordinary dedication, care, and impact of the educators in our building. As principal, I am constantly reminded of the incredible work our teachers do, and this week has been a moving reminder of the power of great teaching.
At our Principal’s Student Advisory Committee meeting yesterday, we asked students a simple but powerful question: “Please share a story about a teacher who has positively impacted you during your time at Central?” Our students' responses were heartfelt, specific, and deeply personal. It was clear that the relationships our teachers build with students extend well beyond the classroom and into the lives and futures of the young people we serve.
Students shared stories of teachers who challenged them academically, supported them emotionally, and helped them discover new passions. Whether it was providing support in welding class to encouraging application to credentialed programs, discovering a love of chemistry, building confidence through music, or simply finding a trusted adult to talk to — our students painted a vivid picture of what it means to be truly seen and supported by a teacher.
Listening to these stories reminded me of my own high school experience. Earlier this school year, I had an unexpected visitor who showed up in the front office. When I heard her voice, I stepped out of my office and saw my former high school Phys Ed teacher — Mrs. Karen Walsh — who also happened to be my volleyball coach (40 years ago Q). When I asked her what brought her here to Central, she said "I just wanted to see you." What a treat to have her come visit me after so many years. Her passion for teaching and sport was contagious. When I was in high school, her now-husband, Rod Walsh, was the setter for Canada’s men’s national volleyball team. He would sometimes attend our practices and take time to coach me one-on-one. I look back now and realize how rare and formative that experience was. Mrs. Walsh, herself a university-level setter while at the U of A, modeled what it meant to teach, mentor, and believe in young people. She inspired me to become a teacher and a coach, as I wanted to be just like her, and I am forever grateful.
When people ask me what one of the most valuable things I have is, my answer is always the same: my education. It has shaped every part of who I am — and that is thanks to teachers.
We are so fortunate at Central Memorial High School to have a team of teachers who bring knowledge, kindness, passion, and unwavering commitment to our students every single day. I encourage you to take a moment to reach out to a teacher who has made a difference in your child’s life. A small note of appreciation goes a long way.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Anne Kromm Principal
Important Dates to Remember
Sunday May 11 - Calgary FC Game McMahon Stadium
Wednesday May 14 - Student Police Academy
Friday May 16 - Non-Instruction Day - NO SCHOOL
Sunday May 18 - Calgary FC Game McMahon Stadium
Monday May 19 - Victoria Day - NO SCHOOL
Thursday May 22 - Digital Dilemma - 11:30
Sunday May 25 CBE x Cavalry FC Fundraiser - postponed until Sept. 20 at 4:00 PM
Tues May 27 - Sat May 31 – National Skills Competition in Regina SK Closes
Saturday May 31 - Scholarship Applications Deadline
Thursday June 5 - CMHS Graduation Ceremony 9:00 - 12:00
Thursday June 5 - CMHS Graduation Banquet 6:00 - 11:00
Tuesday June 10 - Last Day of Regular Classes before Exams
Wednesday June 11 - ELA 30-1 & 30-2 Diploma Part A 9:00
Thursday June 12 - SS 30-1 & 30-2 Diploma Part A 9:00
CMHS Sports
Monday May 12 - Jr Boys Soccer GAME vs QE 4:30
Tuesday May 13 - Girls Rugby GAME at BOW 4:45
Wednesday May 14 - Sr Boys Soccer GAME vs LB 4:30
Thursday May 15 - Boys Rugby GAME vs OLOTR 4:45
GO RAMS GO!
Future School Events
Tuesday May 13 - Choir Concert Anglican Christchurch 2:00
Wednesday May 14 - Centrals Got Talent
Wednesday May 14 - Orchestra Concert St. Stephan’s Anglican Church
Thursday May 15 - COS & Autobody Late Night 4:00 - 7:00
Wednesday May 21 - Band Concert at Rosza Cente U of C 7:00
Thursday May 22 3:30 - 9:00 & Friday May 23 1:30 - 10:30 - CMHS Art Gala Nights
Thursday May 29 - Athletic Banquet Dinner 5:00 Central Cafeteria, Awards 6:00 Gym