Forms and Publications Calendar 2025 -26 School Cal en dar Athletics Family ID Information Head Injury Clearance Form Insurance Student Accident Insurance Lunch Online Lunch Program Free and Reduced-Meals Application Free and Reduced-Meals Instructions Medical Medical Policy Medication Permisson Form Allergy Action Plan Form Authorization for Over Counter Meds Immunization and School Health Physical Policy Photography Hayward Photo Form Do Not Photograph/Video at School Policies 25-26 Student Handbook 25-26 Student Handbook (Portuguese) Wellness Policy Student Record Policy Parent/Student Responsibilities School Business CORI Information Walkers Permission Slips Records Release Form to CCLCS Records Release Form from CCLCS Student Resources Blanket Permission Slip* Technology Responsible User Policy/Code of Conduct RUP/Code of Conduct Google Workspace for Education Agreement *Forms in green are required at the start of the school year.

Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School seeks to provide a supportive and challenging learning environment for middle school students, where teachers foster intellectual development and academic achievement in an atmosphere that celebrates learning as a lifelong pleasure. Top of Page About Us Our Mission Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School seeks to provide a supportive and challenging learning environment for middle school students, where teachers foster intellectual development and academic achievement in an atmosphere that celebrates learning as a lifelong pleasure. We appreciate and understand middle school-aged students. We enjoy the often undervalued creativity and intellectual potential of this age group. We strive to provide an emotionally safe and supportive community, encouraging students to develop their strengths and risk new growth, while pursuing an academically rigorous curriculum. Wherever possible, students learn through experience, allowing them to be engaged in the process of discovery and to see the practical applications of classroom lessons. Looking beyond the walls of the classroom, we collaborate with local partners to utilize the unique natural and creative resources on Cape Cod, and reach out to global partners to broaden our cultural understanding and knowledge. Our graduates take with them the values of personal responsibility, consideration for others, respect for the environment, academic integrity, creative expression, and perseverance. Ratified by the Board of Trustees on 5.18.09 School Origins Education Reform Act, Purpose of Charter Schools In 1993, the Massachusetts Legislature passed into law the Education Reform Act, mandating the development of Charter Schools. According to the Education Reform Act, Charter Schools were established to "stimulate the development of innovative programs within public education; to provide opportunities for innovative learning and assessments; to provide parents and students with greater options in choosing schools within and outside their districts; to provide teachers with a vehicle for establishing schools with alternative, innovative methods of educational instruction and school structure and management; to encourage performance-based educational programs; and to hold teachers and school administrators accountable for students' educational outcomes." (M.G.L. Ch. 71, sec. 55, 1993). During school year 1993-94, fourteen charter schools w ere approved, with the Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School being one of them. Mission Elements: Personal Responsibility Consideration for Others Respect for the Environment Academic Integrity Creative Expression

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions What is a Charter School? Charter Schools are public schools; they are open to residents, free of charge, just like any other public school. The Charter School concept arose out of the Education Reform Act of 1993. There was a strong push at that time to improve public education, and in that climate Charter Schools were born. Education reformers reasoned that public funds could be utilized to open smaller public schools where innovative ideas for educating children could be tried and developed. In Massachusetts, Charter Schools have been started by innovative educators and community members seeking to broaden the options for public education. Each Charter School has a unique mission, approved by the Department of Education and the State Board of Education. There are two types of Charter Schools: Horace Mann and Commonwealth. Horace Mann Charter Schools operate under the supervision of the district school board; Commonwealth Public Charter Schools operate independently from local districts under the supervision of a Board of Trustees and report directly to the state. Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School is a Commonwealth Charter School. What is the history of the Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School? Our charter was approved the first year that charter schools began in Massachusetts, and we've began educating students in September of 1995. See more about our origins . Are CCLCS teachers certified? Teachers in Commonwealth Charter Schools must meet all of the state requirements except that of licensure. Therefore they must possess at least a Bachelor's degree and demonstrate subject matter competence (passed the subject area MTEL), making them Highly Qualified to teach. All of our full time teachers meet those requirements. How do I find/contact CCLCS? 195 Route 137 East Harwich, MA 02645 phone: 774-408-7994 fax: 774-237-9041 info@cclcs.info Catherine O'Leary, Executive Director Beth Woelflein, Associate Director Jennifer Hyora, Director of Student Services Michelle Galucci, Business Manager How many students attend CCLCS? 252, with 84 in each grade. Average class size is 21 Is th ere a qualifying admissions test? No . Entry is based solely on a lottery. See the admissions page for more information. What classes do students take? All students take Math, Language Arts, Social Studies and Science. Every grade has Physical Education, Health and Art once a week. All students can take Seminars. Seventh and eighth graders take either Spa nish. Sixth graders take Exploration. You may find the Curriculum Overview and Information Sheets helpful. What sorts of extra-curricular opportunities are there at CCLCS? CCLCS students can join sports teams (girls' and boys' soccer and field hockey in the fall, boys' and girls' basketball in the winter and baseball and softball in the spring). 7th and 8th graders have preference, with 6th graders able to fill remaining spots on the team. After school activities (for all grades) differ from year to year and from term to term depending on adult availability and grant money. Parents play a key role in whether after school clubs will be offered.

STEM/STEAM Our STEAM Projects The goal of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM) is to “foster the true innovation that comes with combining the mind of a scientist or technologist with that of an artist or designer.” – Rhode Island School of Design At CCLCS we feel that ideally a STEAM project will incorporate at least three of the disciplines, one of which must be science or technology. By connecting these areas, students become creative, inventive thinkers, who ask questions, solve problems and produce outcomes. Students engage in STEAM projects in the classroom and may choose 8-week seminar courses in the fall, winter and spring. The list below highlights some of our projects and courses. We are continuously adding to our STEAM curriculum. Math Math in My World - STEAM Scale of Universe - SAM Body Biology project - SAM Science Bridges - STEM Body Biology - STAM Adaptation project - STEA Earthquake project - STEAM Exploration Egg drop - SEAM Adaptation Coding project - STA Mars Design & 3D Printing - STEA Engineering Mini-Challenges - STEM Art Illuminated Manuscripts - STEA Wampum Belt projects - TEA Design Your Dream Shoe - SEA Color Wheel Construction - STA Body Biology project - SMA Creative Printmaking - TEA Girls in the Trades Past and Present Seminars Amazing Mobiles - SEAM Dreamweavers - TMA Bubble Forts - SEM Engineering Wars - STE Robotics - STEM Figure This - STEAM Museums and Mucking - SAM CCLCS Design Squad - STEAM Yearbook - TAM Total Irresponsible Science - STEM Giving Winter Warmth - TEM Bird Houses - STEM Fashion Design - TEAM Figure This - STEM 3-part Animal Systems - SAM Girls in the Trades - STEM (partnered with Cape Cod Technical High School) Lunar Bubble Seminar STEAM/STEM OPPORTUNITIES FOR KIDS ON CAPE COD The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History http://www.ccmnh.org/John-Hay-Room Jr. Tech https://juniortech.org Cape Cod Regional STEM Network https://capecodstemnetwork.org Chathan Marconi Maritime Center https://www.chathammarconi.org

Athletic Policies Athletic Policy Athletics CCLCS’ Interscholastic Athletic Program fosters self discipline, respect for self and others and ethical competitiveness so as to promote personal responsibility, skill development, physical fitness, moral courage, altruism, as well as an appreciation for team and school spirit. The program operates under the guidance of adult school community members. School teams compete against other public and private middle schools, as scheduled by the Athletic Director. The school offers interscholastic middle school competition in boys/girls cross country, boys/girls soccer, field hockey, boys/girls basketball, baseball and softball. Students are entitled to self-select the team they would like to participate on based on their gender identity. The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) Middle Level Athletic Committee states that “Interscholastic schedules at the middle level should include all middle level grades within the building”. In order to accommodate this directive, CCLCS follows the procedures below: For each sport season, a limit of the number of participants allowed on the team will be set by the Athletic Director. This number will be determined by the resources available each season. Seventh and eighth grade students will be allowed to sign up for the team automatically, without the possibility of being cut. Sixth grade students will be eligible for competing for any remaining spots on the team. If more students sign up than available spots, the coach will need to cut students to reduce the team to the number that can be accommodated. Please note: A fee of $7 0 is charged, per athlete per sport. Playing Time Guidelines Student athletes at CCLCS bring a wide range of abilities and commitment levels to their sports. Some athletes are amongst the elite at their age levels. Other athletes may be trying a sport for the first time. The playing time guidelines outlined here are designed to honor both kinds of athletic team participation. Committed competitive athletes deserve an experience that will hone their skills and keep them on track to meet their future athletic goals. Novice team members deserve the chance to experience the many benefits that result from successful participation at school based team sport. All eligible student athletes have the right to participate equally in practice sessions. Although coaches may at times “split squads” for smaller practices experiences, students of all ability levels should have equal practice time. All eligible students suiting up for a specific contest are guaranteed to get playing time, as long as they are behaving appropriately, but playing time may not be equal. Coaches reserve the right to apportion playing time in a game in response to the flow of the contest. Coaches have the right to set playing rosters that differ from game to game. Coaches should set game rosters in an attempt to balance competitiveness and inclusiveness. All policies outlined in this section of the Handbook are in accordance with rules and regulation of the MIAA Council. Academic Requirements for Student Athletes In order to participate on a team, student athletes are expected to maintain strong academic performance. During each sport season the Executive Director and/or Associate Director or their designees will review athletes’ academic data and when necessary generate an academic progress report. The report will generate a “Pass”, “Borderline” or “Fail” score, based on the following criteria: Pass = a C average or higher in all classes Borderline = a D average in one or more classes Fail = an F average in one or more classes Any student athlete who receives a “Fail” score may result in a temporary suspension from the team until the grade is raised. A student must demonstrate academic progress in order to continue to participate. Any student athlete who receives a “Borderline” will be given a timeline by which they must demonstrate academic progress. If a student does not meet said timeline, they may be suspended from the team. The suspension will remain in effect until academic progress has been demonstrated. Any student with an unexcused absence from school on the day of a meet/game may not participate in the competition. Final decisions regarding academic eligibility and participation in athletics will be determined by school administration. Behavior of Student Athletes Student athletes are representatives of CCLCS and are expected to maintain proper school behavior at all times. Inappropriate behavior or poor sportsmanship, either in school or at a game or team function, is subject to the disciplinary code in the Student Responsibilities section of the CCLCS Student Handbook, and may additionally include suspension or dismissal from the team. Any student who receives community services or other disciplinary action on the day of a game will be held responsible for that consequence. Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, mental or physical disability, age, ancestry, athletic performance, special need, proficiency in the English language or a foreign language, prior academic achievement, or housing status.

English Learners Education Our Commitment CCLCS is committed to providing an excellent educational experience for all students and actively seeks to recruit English Learners (ELs). CCLCS offers a Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) program. A highly qualified ESL teacher provides direct instruction and collaborates with classroom teachers to help English Learners access content as they are learning a new language. CCLCS works to ensure that all core academic teachers have received their SEI endorsement and many non-core academic teachers have received this endorsement as well. CCLCS encourages its educators to continue professional development on effective teaching practices for English Learners. CCLCS works closely with families and sending districts to provide incoming students with varying levels of English proficiency programming appropriate to their needs. Translator and Interpreter Services are provided to families when needed. If you would like to learn more about our English Learner program, please contact Director of Student Services, Jennifer Hyora.

8th GRADE INFOR MATION 8th Grade 8th Grade Trip Three Steps to Register 1) Fill out the Family ID Registration 2) Fill out the hard copy of the Appalachian Mountain Club Paperwork 3) Pay via Paypal or send check (made out to CCLCS) to school The cost of the trip is $350. Scholarships or payment plans available as needed - email hkast@cclcs.info or mgallucci@cclcs.info For students who have medication, the medication form must be filled out and returned by Sep 29 Full Payment Custom Amount

7th & 8th Grade Admissions Lottery drawing for 7th and 8th grade wait lists were held by a ZOOM meeting at CCLCS on Wednesday February 8, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. The waitlists will go into effect the day after the last day of school in June. Waitlist results will be emailed to all applicants by Thursday , February 9, 2023. 7th Grade Lottery Results The 7th Grade Lottery for School Year 2023-2024 was held on Wednesday February 8, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. All 7th grade prospective students are considered wait listed. Enrollment in the Class of 2025 is filled on an on-going basis based when a spot opens up. The 2023-2024 waitlist does not go into effect until the 2022-2023 school year has been completed in June. Here are the results: 2023-24 7th Grade Waitlist Lottery Results sorted by waitlist 8th Grade Lottery Results The 8th Grade Lottery for School Year 2023-2024 was held on Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. All 8th grade prospective students are considered wait listed. Enrollment in the Class of 2024 is filled on an on-going basis based when a spot opens up. The 2023-2024 waitlist does not go into effect until the 2022-2023 school year has been completed in June. Here are the results: 2023-24 8th Grade Waitlist Lottery Results sorted by waitlist Opening the lottery results file may require the free Acrobat Reader software.

Clubs and Activities Clubs at CCLCS Here are some of our clubs at CCLCS: ART Spark Bird and Nature Club Chess Destination Imagination Different Together Ham Radio Mock Trial Model UN National Junior Art Honor Society Roots & Shoots Activities at CCLCS We keep our students busy! Here are some of the current and past activities, field trip, events, etc.! Book Fairs Coastsweep Commemorating 9/11 Community Service Day Gettysburg Holocaust Rememberance Katrina Fundraiser Legislative hearings on Education Music Events Annual Musical Nature's Classroom Open Houses Relay for Life (American Cancer Society) Sea Camps Shenandoah Express Student Conference on Human Rights (United Nations) Talent Shows Tsunami Fundraiser Two Old Women Walk for Water Zimbabwean musical groups Outspoken, Comrade Fatso and Bongo Love

Staff & Faculty Ben Parsons Executive Director Ben graduated from Bowdoin College in 2000 with a BA in English and French, where he played varsity soccer and spent his junior year in Toulouse, France. After a fellowship teaching English at the Universite de Bretagne Occidentale, he worked in finance for a year in Boston. Discovering that investment banking wasn't his calling, he returned to school, completing an MA in Liberal Studies from Dartmouth College while teaching French at a small school across the river in Vermont. From there, he moved to the Cape, where he taught French and English at Falmouth Academy for 18 of the past 22 years. While at FA, he served in various coaching and administrative roles as well, including Dean of Students and Middle School Coordinator. In his four year "sabbatical" from FA, he earned a PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from UMass Dartmouth in 2015, served as the Executive Director of the Center for Education Innovation at Friends Academy, and as Head of a K-12 school in Joplin, Missouri. He resides in Falmouth with his partner and their four children. Elizabeth Woelflein Associate Director Beth is a graduate of Villanova University where she earned her BS in Business Administration, and then later graduated from Manhattanville College with Masters Degrees in Education and Special Education. She worked as a teacher and an administrator in several high schools in Middlesex County for more than ten years and, in that time, earned her M.Ed in Education Administration through the MSAA LLP. Beth is thrilled to be a part of the CCLCS Team and to work with the staff and the students and their families to fulfill the mission that “celebrates learning as a lifelong pleasure.” Beth and her husband, Bob, are proud and grateful parents of two daughters. Cheri Amaru Wilson Reading Cheri Amaru earned a BA in Elementary Education from Wheaton College, IL in 1998 and a M.Ed in Reading and Language from UMass Lowell in 2016. She has been a certified Wilson Reading Teacher for over 20 years, which she primarily teaches at CCLCS. Cheri and her husband Jason enjoy living in Orleans and have three sons. Emily Anziano 8th Civics/Social Studies Emily is a CCLCS alum who is excited to be back as the 8th grade Social Studies/Civics teacher- one of her all-time favorite classes when she was a student at CCLCS. Emily received degrees in English and Secondary Education from Wheaton College (MA), as well as minors in Psychology and Studio Art. Emily lives in Wellfleet with her husband and two pets- a dog and a tortoise. Mary Beth Barnhardt Speech Language Pathologist Mary Beth is a passionate and creative speech-language pathologist with more than 20 years of experience supporting students in finding their voices—literally and figuratively! She brings joy, collaboration, and curiosity to her work, whether she’s helping middle schoolers master conversation skills or co-teaching self-regulation strategies. When she’s not at school, you might find Mary Beth in the garden, paddleboarding, or messing about with art supplies. She is beyond excited to be part of the CCLCS community! Mary Beth lives in Falmouth with her husband, daughter, two dogs and two cats. Brian Bates 6th Science Brian earned a BS from the University of Colorado, Boulder. He started at the Lighthouse Charter School in September 2000 and currently teaches 6th grade science. He is an active tennis, paddle tennis player, and golfer who also likes to ski in the winter. He resides in Orleans with his wife and twins. Kristin Berner Special Education Intervention Kristen is a licensed Mental Health counselor who moved to Cape Cod from Florida where she worked as a school-based counselor. She earned her bachelor's degree from Stetson University, and a master’s in science from Nova Southeastern University. She spent 14 years working as a children's therapist and has since found her way to CCLCS. Kristen brings a lot of creative approaches and ideas for working with students. She is always up for an adventure, and in her spare times she enjoys boating, beaching, and hanging out with her husband Kegan and her son Chase! Challis Crema Literary Specialist Challis earned her Master’s in Speech Pathology from Plattsburgh State University in 2001 and, since then, has worked with students aged 3 to 18. She has always had a passion for all areas of language development and recently finished up her Reading Specialist Degree from MGH-IHP. Challis enjoys the energy and spirit of working with middle school students and fully believes in the power of strong literacy instruction in adolescence. In her spare time, Challis enjoys traveling near and far with her family or exploring Cape Cod trails with her husband, her daughter, Molly, and their jolly Bernese Mountain Dog named Adi. Aaron Crowell 7th Science After seventeen years of teaching high school biology and middle school life science at Cape Cod Academy and three years of teaching biology at Sturgis Charter School, Aaron came to CCLCS to teach his favorite age group, seventh grade. Upon graduating from Colby College, he headed down south to work in the Medical Microbiology Department at the University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine. His time in the microbiology lab as a TA inspired a long career in the classroom. He is a veteran AP and IB teacher as well as a middle school teacher. He enjoys most anything that involves being outside. Caroline Doherty Special Education, Instructional Assistant Bio Coming Soon. Michele Gallucci Business Manager Michele joined CCLCS as Business Manager in 2023. Previously, Michele lived in New York and worked for many years as a corporate finance professional in both healthcare companies and startups where she focused on strategy and new business development. She earned her MBA in Finance at the Wharton School of Business and holds a BA in Economics and Spanish from the University of Massachusetts at Boston. Michele loves finance and is thrilled to bring her skills and knowledge to CCLCS. Originally from Massachusetts, Michele now resides on Cape Cod with her husband and two daughters. Danielle Germaine R.N. Nurse Danielle Germaine earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from Cape Cod Community College and later received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from UMASS Boston. She has been a nurse at Cape Cod Hospital for seven years and also has experience working as a hospice nurse with Broad Reach. Danielle is currently enrolled at UMASS Dartmouth, where she is pursuing an advanced nursing degree. She lives in Hyannis with her children and enjoys exploring Cape Cod. Mark Girardin Music - Choral Mark joined CCLCS in 2015. Mark has taught Music to grades pre-K-12, started the music and drama departments of St. Matthew School in Cranston, RI, St Pius X School in S. Yarmouth, and Saint John Paul II in Hyannis. Mark is a graduate of the Crane School of Music, SUNY POTSDAM. He also participated in the Saratoga Potsdam Choral Institute at Skidmore College, singing with the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Liberty Weekend Chorus. Rachel Giffee Special Education, Instructional Assistant Rachel earned her BFA in Art Education from Massachusetts College of Art and Design. She is a Cape Cod native and CCLCS alum, excited to rejoin the community. In her free time she loves to spend time on nature trails, creating and baking, but is always eager to pick up something new! Susanna Graham-Pye 7th Language Arts Susanna has been at CCLCS for over a decade. She enjoys, immeasurably, her work here. A graduate of Smith College, she has an MFA in creative writing from Goddard College. She lives in South Orleans with her husband, children, and hound dogs. She loves sharing the amazing journey that is middle school with her colleagues and the fantabulous charter kids. Zukhra Graham Special Education, Instructional Assistant Zukhra is a Nauset Regional High School graduate and also a former student at CCLCS. She is currently taking a break from college and working here at the school as a special education assistant, she hopes to pursue a career in this field. In her free time she likes to take walks, workout, create art, and spend time with friends and family. Annie Haven 8th Science Annie is a perpetual learner who resides in Harwich with her husband, two daughters, dogs, chickens, and fish. She earned her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Lesley University. Annie holds state certifications for all subjects for grades 1-6 as well as in math/science for grades 5-8. She earned her level 1 certificate for International Baccalaureate math and was the 2014 Barnstable County Science Educator of the Year. She is an EVERFI certified STEM teacher and is active in the local STEM community. She is the secretary to the board of the Massachusetts Association of Science teachers and a member of NSTA, MAST, and the Science Alliance. She loves presenting at conferences, and in 2022, she was awarded the David H. Byron Award for outstanding service to science education in the state of Massachusetts. Brittany Hutton Special Education, Instructional Assistant Britany graduate from Nauset in 2004, Bachelors from Saint Michael's College 2008 with a BA in Journalism and Communications 2nd year at CCLCS as a Learning Assistant to 8th grade from Brewster, lives with her daughter and husband. When not teaching I love the beach and being with my family. Jennifer Hyora Director of Student Services Jen joined CCLCS in 2005 and believes deeply in its mission. After many years as both 6th grade Special Education Teacher and Special Education Coordinator, she now serves as full time Director of Student Services. Jen received her BS in Early Childhood Education from Colby-Sawyer College, M.Ed. in Special Education from Framingham State College, and C.A.G.S. in School Administration from American International College. She previously taught at Harwich Elementary School and the Laurel School in Brewster. Brenna Johnson Art Brenna has been an art educator extraordinaire in Franklin, MA for many years, teaching primarily at the high school level and creating the “Empty Bowls” program which has raised over $100,000 for the Franklin Food Pantry. She was born and raised in the Nauset district and has a strong desire to return to the Cape. She has already spent some time in the art classroom at CCLCS to get a feel for the supplies, curriculum materials, and past student projects and is “ready to do the work to make the art classroom a magical place!” Denneen Joseph 6th Langauge Arts Denneen received a BA in History from UMass Dartmouth. She was born and raised on Cape Cod and is excited to be part of the CCLCS community. She lives in Chatham with her husband and their two sons. In her free time, Denneen loves to spend time reading, cooking, gardening, fishing and watching her sons play sports. Hannah Kast Admissions Administrative Assistant Hannah received a BA in International Studies and Psychology from the George Washington University in Washington, DC. Prior to joining the staff at CCLCS, Hannah worked in 7th and 8th grade at Edmunds Middle School in Vermont while completing her Master of Arts in Teaching in Middle School Curriculum at the University of Vermont. She graduated again in 2017 with a M.Ed. in Education Administration from the Massachusetts School Administrator's LLP program & Endicott College, and is licensed in Middle School Humanities and School Administration. After 12 years teaching English and Social Studies at CCLCS, Hannah shifted to office work, where she also coordinates the school’s admissions, field trips & seminar programs. Outside of school, she is also a certified yoga instructor and works as a figure skating coach with Lower Cape Figure Skating & Charles Moore Arena. Tara Mason 8th World Language (French) Tara aka Madame Mason aka the Madaminator has been in love with the French language and culture since she was in middle school. She has a BA in French & Secondary Education from Roanoke College and a Masters degree in Curriculum and Teaching from Fitchburg State University. She has been teaching modern languages to middle school students for almost three decades! She is most proud of her two children who are CCLCS alumni. She is a native Cape Codder and currently lives with her family in Yarmouth. Beyond the classroom, Madame likes to read mysteries, to travel and to listen to traditional Celtic music. Doug Mason 7th Math Douglas earned a BS from Springfield College where he played rugby for four years. He spent the last seven years teaching math at St. Pius X School. He has two children who are graduates of CCLCS and coached both baseball and basketball while they attended CCLCS. Baseball is one of his passions. After umpiring in the Cape Cod Baseball League for over 10 summers, he now spends his summers umpiring in Cooperstown, NY, home of the Baseball Hall of Fame. When not on the baseball field he loves to travel with his wife across Europe, visit different MLB stadiums with his son or watch his daughter perform in her theater productions around Cape Cod. Avari Maxwell Special Education, Instructional Assistant Avari joined CCLCS right after earning her Bachelor’s Degree from Endicott College. She began her college career at Merrimack College and finished up at Endicott, competing on the Women’s Ice Hockey team and participating on Club Dance Teams at both institutions. Avari spent almost every summer on Cape Cod and moved here full time this fall. In her move, she was thrilled to become part of the CCLCS community, aiming to help students reach their fullest potential both in and out of the classroom. In her free time, she enjoys walking with her dog Miller, boating, beaching, and spending time with her friends and family. Jennifer Maxwell 6th Special Education Jennifer joins us from Foxborough MA after several years working in special education at the middle school level. She earned her BA from UMass Lowell and her Masters in Special Education from Lesley University. Jennifer is thrilled to be joining the community at CCLCS and is looking forward to working with students and their families to continue the mission of creating a lifelong love of learning and empowering all students to meet their full potential. Jennifer enjoys reading, working out, cooking, beach time, boating, and spending time with her family and friends. She and her husband Glenn have four children, two sons and two daughters and a Yellow Lab, Miller. Ken Merrill Technology Coordinator Ken earned a BA in English from UMASS Dartmouth and has worked on the Cape in various technology related positions from Job Training Employment Corp in Hyannis, Harwich Middle School in Harwich, and most recently at The Riverview School in Sandwich, MA. Ken earned his license to teach technology from Lesley University in Boston and most recently attended training at Rediker Software to get up to speed with what Cape Cod Lighthouse uses. Ken is an avid surfer and skier and he and his wife Marie have two grown sons Kyle and Colin. Caroline Metz 7th World Language (Spanish) Caroline’s passion for the Spanish language and various cultures has been lifelong having studied the language for 12+ years. Through travel and various immersion opportunities, Caroline further developed her command and appreciation of the language. Caroline earned her BS in Operations Management and Logistics and is on her way to pursuing a Master's degree in Education. Katie Motta English Language Learning Katie is a graduate of Mass Art in Boston and has taken several classes studying special education at Lesley University. She has worked at a neighboring school district for six years trying to help students reach their full potential. She loves being around young people and feels inspired by their unique view of the world. In Katie’s free time she likes to spend time with her daughter Stella and enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Cod. Paul Niles Education Foundation Paul is one of the founding teachers at CCLCS. Paul was lured to CCLCS from teaching science at a small school in Western Mass. He has a BA in French from the College of the Holy Cross, a BS in zoology from UMass/Amherst and an M.Ed. from UMass/Amherst. He lives in Brewster with his wife. He spends his spare time playing sports and enjoying nature. Andrew Novak 8th Math Andrew holds his BS in Biology from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. Andy has been teaching and tutoring in Mathematics and Science since 2007 and has worked at CCLCS in varying capacities since 2009 including Special Education, XP, 6th grade Math, 8th grade Science and 8th Mathematics. He is certified in High School Biology and Middle School Mathematics, loves running, hiking, birding, chess, and meeting or exceeding the energy demands of his son. He lives in Dennis with his wife Elizabeth, and son, Hayden. Elizabeth Novak Social Worker Liz has taught at CCLCS since 2004. She received her BA in Mathematics from Mount Holyoke College and is also an alumna of Cape Cod Community College. In addition to her mathematics teaching, Liz has had extensive experience with outdoor and experiential education and will graduate with her Masters in Social Work in spring 2024. Allison Noyes Occupational Therapist Allison is a CCLCS graduate who joined the CCLCS team in 2019. She earned her Masters in Occupational Therapy from Bay Path University. After completing school, Allison returned to Brewster where she resides with her two white german shepherds, Miles and Minnow. For fun she loves to spend time with her family, cook, travel and go to the beach all year long. Catherine O'Leary 8th Language Arts Catherine graduated from Boston College in 2003 with a BA in English and again in 2008 with M.Ed. Prior to arriving at CCLCS, she taught 7th grade Language Arts in Brookline at the Dexter and Southfield Schools, as well as 5th grade in the Newton Public Schools. Catherine joined CCLCS in 2008 as the 6th grade ELA teacher and served in that position for six years before earning her M.Ed. in school administration from Simmons College. Catherine shifted from the classroom to administration in 2013 and served as Associate Director and then as Executive Director until 2025. She is excited to return to the classroom as the 8th grade ELA teacher. Catherine resides in Harwich with her husband, two human kids, and one canine kid. Carrie Quenneville 6th Math Carrie joined CCLCS in 2005 and has taught 6th, 7th & 8th grade Math and Art, currently provides Academic support across the curriculum and is our Field Hockey Coach. Carrie holds her primary Bachelor of Art Education from Mt. Holyoke College, a secondary certification through Smith College and a Master of Art Education through UMass-Dartmouth. Her master's thesis focused on how drawing can enhance student focus and engagement in the classroom. When not at school, Carrie is at home in Dennis with her family running Shark Shark Tuna Fishing Charters. Seth Roberts 7th Social Studies Seth Roberts is a 2006 graduate of Westfield State College where he studied History. While joining CCLCS in the 23-24 academic year, Seth has more than 15 years of teaching experience from New York City, Southbridge and Springfield, MA. When not at school, Seth is also a baseball umpire and soccer coach. He can often be found walking, hiking, and hanging around with his two dogs. Adam Rose Physical Education Born and raised in Harwich, Adam graduated from Harwich High School in 2003. He attended Dean College & Bridgewater State University where he played on the men’s basketball team and graduated with a degree in Physical Education. Adam has taught in all levels of education (K-12), and has spent 15 years coaching for various varsity sport teams. He is very excited to join the Lighthouse team! Karen Scichilone Education Foundation/ Liaison for Parent Bus Karen has been part of CCLCS since its birth. All four of her children attended the Charter School. Karen holds an Associates in Accounting from CCCC and a BS in Psychology, Minor in Math and Education from UMass Dartmouth. She is certified in Middle School Math and Social Studies. Karen loves to travel and read in her off time. She lives in Yarmouth with her husband Ray, occasionally a few children and grandchildren and two golden retrievers. Elizabeth Schultze Music - Strings Elizabeth is a graduate of the Oberlin Conservatory of Music. Liz was a cellist in the Bergen (Norway) Philharmonic, and a freelance cellist in Stockholm, Sweden before settling on the Cape in 1991. She is a longtime member of the Cape Symphony (34 seasons!) and is cellist with and a founding member of Giocosa Chamber Music. She teaches private students at her home in Orleans where she lives with fellow Schultze-Ericsson Cello Duo member and luthier, Bo Ericsson. Liz is mom to cellists Sam and Annika and loves playing cello quartets once a year as a family when they are altogether on the same continent. An avid cyclist, Liz can be found biking the Cape in all seasons. Andrew "Crash" Sims Office Manager/Athletic Director Crash came to CCLCS after directing the Monomoy Day Camp at the Cape Cod Sea Camps for more than 25 years. He lives in Brewster with his wife and 2 daughters who are all connected to CCLCS. In addition to working with children, he is passionate about the Pan Mass Challenge, and the Minnesota Vikings. Christin Sims 8th Special Education Christin studied elementary and special education at Boston University, graduating with a B.S. in Special Education. After teaching at the elementary level for several years, she moved to the Cape and returned to school to pursue a Master’s degree in Special Education from Bridgewater State University. During her studies at Bridgewater, she first encountered life at CCLCS as a long-term substitute in grade 7. After graduating, she returned to the world of elementary education for several years but made her way back to CCLCS in the fall of 2019 in the role of 8th Grade Learning Specialist. Outside of school, Christin enjoys spending time with friends and family, arts and crafts, going for walks, and enjoying the beauty of nature on Cape Cod. Michael Smith Band/ General Music Michael is best known for creating a welcoming classroom filled with singing, playing, and joyful music-making, and he is excited to become part of the team at the Lighthouse Charter School. A composer, songwriter, author, and music educator, he is dedicated to engaging every student in making music so they continue singing, playing and creating music for life. He is the author of the popular It’s Time to Play series for band, strings, and recorder, and has presented at the Midwest Band Clinic and music educator conferences nationwide. His compositions are known for their accessibility, diversity, and improvisatory spirit. Alongside his career in music, he is also a passionate gardener who finds hope and inspiration in cultivating beautiful outdoor spaces. Joshua Stewart 6th XP Josh has been at CCLCS since year two, working as an intern, the 6th Grade math teacher, and in his current role of 6th Grade Explorations teacher. A graduate of Nauset Regional Schools, Mr. Stewart studied American History and Studio Art at the Univ. of Vermont and earned a M.Ed. in Middle School Education from Lesley College. When not teaching, he spends his free time in or on the ocean, sliding down snow, and exploring the hills of northern New England. He lives in Orleans with his two children and a growing collection of vintage snowboards Dana Strakele 7th Special Education Dana graduated from Westfield State College with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Liberal Studies. After graduating, Dana worked with younger children before making the switch to middle school. After a few years at CCLCS Dana decided to go back to school. She graduated from Northeastern University in the fall of 2011 with a master's degree in Special Education. Dana lives in Orleans with her husband, two children, and two cats. Kathryn Wilkinson 6th Social Studies Kathryn has taught at CCLCS since 2004. Previously, Kathryn taught fifth grade at an international school in Guatemala. She earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Vermont, and a master’s in education from Lesley University. When not teaching, Kathryn enjoys traveling, gardening, hanging out with her two kids, and taking walks around the Cape with her dogs.

The Butterfly Project Butterflies of Brundibar Each year, the seventh grade at Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School engages in an interdisciplinary study of the Holocaust across the social studies, art and language arts curricula. Each January, we have a day-long Holocaust memorial program which culminates with our participation in the Butterfly Project, an international memorial project to honor the 1.5 million children who perished in the Holocaust. Each student paints a ceramic butterfly in honor of a young victim whose story they read on identity cards distributed by The Butterfly Project as part of the kits. The Butterfly Project was inspired by the art and poetry created by the children interned by the Nazis at the Terezin Concentration Camp; ultimately their work, which was discovered upon liberation, was published in a book entitled I Never Saw Another Butterfly. The book’s title draws its name from a poem written by Pavel Friedmann. While imprisoned in Terezin, many of these children also were enlisted to perform the Czech opera Brundibar for the International Red Cross' visit to the camp as well as for a propaganda film later used by the Nazis. In post-liberation interviews, the performers explained that they felt empowered by the music which they sang as a form of resistance. Since the opera was performed in Czech and the Nazis spoke German, they did not realize that the children were singing about the end of tyranny. The opera’s finale is a celebration of victory over Brundibar the tyrant and a symbol of hope for the victory that those interned hoped and prayed for. “We’ve won a victory over the tyrant mean, sound trumpets, beat your drum, and show us your esteem! We’ve won a victory, since we were not fearful, since we were not tearful, because we marched along singing our happy song, bright, joyful and cheerful.” Ceramic butterflies in honor 1.5 million children who perished in the Holocaust hanging in our multipurpose room. Thanks to funding from the Cape Cod Arts Foundation, Cape Cod Five and Am Hayam, we are able to create and install a mural honoring the children who perished in the Holocaust. Our mural gives these children a voice through the opera’s finale and wings through their representation as butterflies. Each butterfly represents a music note in the finale of Brundibar. The last butterfly in our mural was painted by Martin Owens, the grandfather of three Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School graduates. Mr. Owens escaped Austria and spent several years at a boarding school for refugees in England. Mr. Owens was reunited with his mother after the war and eventually emigrated to the U.S. The Butterfly The last, the very last, So richly, brightly, dazzlingly yellow. Perhaps if the sun’s tears would sing against a white stone… Such, such a yellow Is carried lightly ‘way up high. It went away I’m sure because it wished to kiss the world goodbye. For seven weeks I’ve lived in here, Penned up inside this ghetto But I have found my people here. The dandelions call to me And the white chestnut candles in the court. Only I never saw another butterfly. That butterfly was the last one. Butterflies don’t live in here, In the ghetto. ~ Pavel Friedmann 4.6.1942 Listen to the NPR coverage of the unveiling of the Butterflies of Brundibar mural We plan to add additional butterflies each year and to continue expanding the mural throughout the school as a reminder to our students of the importance of taking a stand in the face of injustice and helping those being persecuted. The mural is also a celebration of the power of the arts in times of despair. May 10, 2022 will be the 77th anniversary of the liberation of Terezin by the Soviets. We will honor the 150,000 Jews who were interned at Terezin, 15,000 of whom were children. The program will include musical performances as well as several speakers before the unveiling of the The mural was dedicated at CCLCS on May 10, 2022, the 77th anniversary of the liberation of Terezin. The Mural Flyer

6th Grade: Outdoor Classroom September 23 & 24 Yarmouthport, MA Registration Form (CCLCS) Registration Form (Outdoor Classroom) Pick up at 7:20pm at CCLCS Both Days No Chaperones Needed! Please Register by Wednesday, September 18th 7th Grade: Boundless Adventure September 24 Berlin, MA Registration Form (CCLCS) Waiver (Boundless Adventure) Estimated Return: 4:45pm at CCLCS *Chaperones not needed, but would be welcome - email hkast@cclcs.info to register interest. Please Register by Wednesday, September 18th 8th Grade: White Mountains October 9-11 Bretton Woods, NH Registration Form (CCLCS) Registration Forms (3) (Appalachian Mountain Club) Packing List Med Form (Must be returned to nurse by 10/2) Interested in chaperoning ? Fill out the form here by 9/19 Pick up at CCLCS around 6:30pm at CCLCS Please Register by Friday, September 20 Questions about Field Trips? Email Hkast@cclcs.info