Here at Joseph B. Cavallaro it is our mission to, “provide every child with the support to grow intellectually, physically, socially and emotionally into a contributing member of society." To successfully achieve this mission, our school community continues to offer a variety of academic and recreational programs. Student participation in these activities helps nurture their academic and social growth throughout their years at I.S. 281.

Student Government – On March 18^th candidates for Student Government President and Vice-President had the opportunity to address our 7^th graders at an assembly program. During AM Homeroom on March 19^th students voted for their candidates of choice. I would like to commend the efforts of all of our fine candidates and proudly announce that Jennifer Ngo of class 704 has been elected Student Government Vice-President and Iris Pepa of class 801 has been elected as President. I am confident that they will serve in the best interests of all of our children.

3^rd Quarter Report Cards – On Monday April 14^th students will receive their third quarter report cards. Final grades for our seventh grade students play a major role in the high school acceptance process. Please continue to monitor your child’s academic performance. If you have any questions regarding his/her subject classes, please contact his/her teacher to discuss your concerns.

Pennies for Patients – I am proud to announce that our 7^th grade students were the top fundraisers for our Pennies for Patients charity drive. As a school we collected over 5,000 dollars during our annual fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I would like to thank all of our supporters who are helping to make a difference in the lives of others.

C.H.A.M.P.S. Fitness Program - The goal of the C.H.A.M.P.S. Middle School Sports & Fitness program is to improve student fitness levels and overall health by increasing opportunities for children to engage in physical activity, regardless of athletic ability. The program promotes health-related fitness through a mix of several after-school and before-school activities including traditional sports, non-traditional sports, and fitness activities. The ultimate goal is for students to grow to be C.H.A.M.P.S. — Cooperative, Healthy, Active, Motivated, Positive Students — for life. As we embark upon the Spring season, we are now offering programs in boys and girls basketball as well as a co-educational softball program.

These are just a few of the many upcoming key dates and events at I.S. 281. Continue to visit IS281.com to find out more information about the 2007-2008 school year.

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact Mr. Adelson at (718) 996-6706 – Extension 3241.

You can teach a student a lesson for a day; but if you can teach him to learn by creating curiosity, he will continue the learning process as long as he lives." - Clay P. Bedford

Mr. K. Adelson – 7^th Grade Assistant Principal

(718) 996-6706 – Extension 3241