As we reach the midpoint of the academic year at CAAS, it’s time to reflect on the memorable and uplifting experiences that have shaped our school community. From our school-wide orientation to celebrating Wellness Wednesdays, embarking on exciting trips, and honoring academic accomplishments, the first half of the school year has been filled with growth and inspiration.
We kicked off the school year with our school-wide orientation, centered around the theme “Using Hurdles As Stepping Stones.” This theme set the tone for the rest of the year, encouraging students and staff to view challenges as opportunities for growth and development. It laid the foundation for a positive and resilient mindset that has carried us through the ups and downs of the semester.
One of the highlights of the year was our Cultural Heritage Day, where we came together to celebrate and honor the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the members of our school community. We were also honored to have Deputy Brooklyn President, Kim Council, open our Campus-Wide “Breaking the Cycle” Respect for All Assembly, where students were inspired through presentations from Sergio Argueta, (a former gang member who conquered life’s obstacles, defied societal pressures, and fought for survival against all odds), and Isa Islam (a resilient Brooklyn local whose determination to overcome his tragic subway surfing accident at just 17 years old and multiple subsequent surgeries, has inspired those around him). We also hosted our annual Battle of the Classes (BOTC) Junior Edition. This event brought together students from different grades to showcase their talents, creativity, and teamwork. It was a celebration of unity and school spirit that left a lasting impact on everyone involved.
Throughout the semester, we prioritized student well-being with our Wellness Wednesdays, focusing on mental health, self-care, and overall wellness. These initiatives underscored our commitment to supporting not just academic success, but also holistic development among our students. We were happy to be able to expand our partnership with GodSquad and to begin a new partnership with Project ECHO to aid us in this endeavor.
Our school also organized several enriching trips, including visits to institutions such as the National Constitution Center, Dutch Hollow Farm, Lincoln Centre Theatre the Museum of Natural History. These outings provided students with hands-on learning experiences outside the classroom, broadening their horizons and deepening their understanding of various subjects.
In addition to celebrating extracurricular achievements, we also recognized perfect attendance and academic accomplishments among our students. We are thrilled that many students were able to earn college credit through our dual enrollment classes. Many graduated in January and have already started college. Many others have received college acceptance from a plethora of colleges and eagerly anticipate beginning their college journey this fall. Several students started apprenticeships at different organizations and city agencies through our Career Ready Modern Youth Apprenticeship Program. These acknowledgments served as motivation for continuous improvement and dedication to learning.
As we look ahead to the second half of the school year, we are excited to showcase who we are at CAAS and what we stand for. Our goal is to inspire all students and staff to finish the year with determination and strength, creating not only memories but a legacy that will endure for years to come.
With a mix of fond farewells to retiring teachers like Mr. Stasiuk and warm welcomes to new educators joining our team, we are poised for continued growth and success in the months ahead. The spirit of unity, resilience, and excellence that defines CAAS will guide us as we navigate the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.
Together, let’s make the second half of this school year even more remarkable than the first. Let’s strive for greatness, support one another in our endeavors, and leave a lasting impact that reflects the true essence of CAAS.
