Families
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT CAMELLIA SCHOOL?
Camellia’s 2024 Annual Spaghetti Feast, Live Auction, & Talent Show!
Camellia’s Annual Family Spaghetti Night kicked off
with an electrifying start as our talented students took to the
stage for the much-anticipated Talent Show. The air was filled
with applause as each performer, from singers and dancers to
piano players, shared their passion and skills, setting a joyful
tone for the evening. Following the performances, the cafeteria
buzzed with excitement from the live auction and raffle,
captivating everyone from students to families to staff. The
entire night was a delightful celebration of talent, community,
and of course, delicious spaghetti. Whether bidding on unique
items or cheering for their favorite performers, the sense of
camaraderie was palpable, making it a truly memorable event for
all families and staff involved.
A Heartfelt Day of Celebration: El Día de los Niños at Camellia
At Camellia, El Día de los Niños—or Day of the Child—is more than
just an event; it’s a heartfelt celebration deeply embedded in
our school’s annual traditions, reflecting the diverse cultures
that make up our vibrant community. This year, we kicked things
off with an exhilarating assembly that filled the room with the
rhythms and colors of cultural dances from all over the world. It
was a vivid start to the day that not only entertained but also
opened our eyes to the rich diversity we are fortunate to have
around us. As the morning gave way to a
sun-drenched midday, we moved the festivities outside, turning
the school lawns into a patchwork of picnic spots. Families
spread out their blankets and unpacked baskets brimming with a
variety of delicious foods. It was wonderful to hear the park
alive with the sounds of laughter and the buzz of conversation,
as everyone basked in the perfect weather and the joyous
atmosphere.
Among the most moving moments were the smiles and laughter of our children. Their uninhibited joy was truly infectious, reminding everyone present of the pure happiness that comes from simple pleasures. The picnic wasn’t just a pause from the regular school routine; it was a valuable chance for families to connect, share a meal, and experience the school community in a relaxed, joyful setting.
As we look forward to next year, we are filled with anticipation
to make El Día de los Niños even more special. But let’s not wait
until then to embrace the spirit of this wonderful day. Let’s
strive to make every day a celebration of our children’s
uniqueness and a reflection of our commitment to nurturing an
environment where every child feels cherished, understood, and
part of a loving community.
Annual Science Night
Camellia’s Annual Family Science Night was an exhilarating
evening of discovery, filled with hands-on activities and
impressive student science projects. Students in grades 4
though 6 showcased their experiments, from innovative
environmental technologies to captivating physical science
experiments, sparking curiosity and excitement among
attendees. This annual event continues to highlight the
importance of science education and the incredible talent of our
students at Camellia.
School Beautification Day
Camellia’s School Beautification Day was a resounding success,
thanks to the incredible efforts of Ms. Her, our awesome third
teacher, and community volunteer, Ms. Xer. Together, they
organized a day filled with gardening and cleaning that brought
students, families, both current and retired staff together to
enhance our school’s environment. The energy was palpable
as everyone pitched in, transforming the campus into a more
welcoming and vibrant space. This event not only beautified
our school but also strengthened the bonds within our
community. Thank you to everyone involved for making such a
positive impact on Camellia!
Chess Club!
Welcome to Camellia Chess Club, where strategic minds meet under
the guidance of our phenomenal third grade teacher, Mr.
Lundstrom! Each week, students gather to challenge each
other, sharpen their skills, and cultivate a love for this
classic game of strategy and foresight. Mr. Lundstrom’s
dedication not only teaches them the nuances of chess but also
fosters critical thinking and camaraderie among
students.
Welcoming the Year of the Dragon: A Spectacular Lunar New Year
On February 9th, 2024, Camellia Elementary School was ablaze with color, music, and the joyous spirit of celebration as we welcomed the Year of the Dragon with our very own Lunar New Year parade and lion dance. The air was filled with excitement and the warmth of community as students, staff, and families came together to honor and partake in this rich cultural tradition.
Here’s to a year filled with prosperity, joy, and the continued
celebration of our diverse and vibrant community. Happy
Lunar New Year to all! May the Year of the Dragon bring
you and your loved ones happiness, health, and
prosperity!
Dinger Brings Home Runs of Motivation to Camellia Elementary!
Camellia Elementary had the incredible opportunity to welcome a very special guest who knocked our expectations out of the park — Dinger, the beloved mascot of the Sacramento River Cats! The event was a grand slam, inspiring students with messages of positivity, perseverance, and the importance of attitude, attendance, and academics!
We extend our deepest gratitude to Dinger and the Sacramento
River Cats for making this memorable event possible. It was
a home run that will undoubtedly inspire our students for the
rest of the school year and beyond. At Camellia Elementary,
we believe in the power of community partnerships to enrich our
students’ educational experiences, and Dinger’s visit was a
testament to the incredible impact these collaborations can
have. Here’s to hitting more home runs in attitude,
attendance, academics! Thank you, Dinger, for inspiring us
all to swing for the fences in every aspect of our
lives!
Buzzing with Knowledge: Camellia Elementary Hosts “Fight the Bite” Assembly
Camellia Elementary School had the pleasure of hosting an
enlightening and engaging assembly titled, “Fight the
Bite,” in collaboration with the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito
and Vector Control District. The event was a buzzing
success, providing students and staff with invaluable information
about mosquito control and prevention, all while fostering a
spirit of community responsibility and environmental
stewardship.
January 2024: A Celebration of Creativity and Community
Camellia Elementary School transformed it’s cafeteria into a vibrant hub of creativity, laughter, and shared experiences, as families gathered for the much anticipated Family Art Night. This event, an annual highlight for our school community, once again proved to be an inspiring showcase of artistic talent and family engagement. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, as students, parents, and teachers alike prepared to dive into an evening dedicated to art, expression, and connection.
Perhaps the most significant impact of Family Art Night was its
role in strengthening the Camellia community. Art has a
unique way of breaking down barriers and opening up lines of
communication. Families shared stories and laughter,
teachers and students connected outside the traditional classroom
setting, and everyone left with a deeper sense of belonging and
community spirit.
12/22/2023: A Celebration of Community
As the chilly winds of December blew across our beloved Camellia Elementary, the school was abuzz with excitement, anticipation, and a profound sense of community. The last week before the winter break was nothing short of magical, filled with memorable events and heartwarming moments.
The festivities kicked off with our Annual School-Wide Sing Along. The multipurpose and hallways echoed with the charming sounds of our students’ voices, singing their favorite holiday tunes with vim and vigor. There was an infectious sense of joy and camaraderie as students and staff came together to celebrate the season through the universal language of music.
But perhaps the most touching event of the week was the
gift-giving event. Thanks to the generous efforts our PTSO
president, our diligent staff, and our dedicated parent
volunteers, every child at Camellia received a special holiday
gift. The delight in their eyes as they chose their gifts
was a sight to behold. It was not just about the presents,
but the realization that they are part of a caring, supportive
community that cherishes them.
12/11/2023 Spreading Love and Joy: Camellia’s Annual Wee Bazaar!
At Camellia, we believe in fostering a sense of community and providing our students with opportunities to learn and grow beyond the classroom. One such event that captures the spirit of love and generosity is our Annual School Wee Bazaar! This unique event allows our students to explore their creativity, practice financial literacy, and purchase heartfelt gifts for their loved ones. It also serves as a reminder of the values we hold dear and the importance of spreading joy and kindness in our school community.
11/17/2023 Celebrating Hmong New with a Vibrant Parade
At Camellia, we recently had the pleasure of celebrating the
Annual Hmong New Year with a lively and colorful parade. It
was a wonderful opportunity for our students, staff, and
community to come together and learn about the rich cultural
traditions of the Hmong people. As we continue to embrace
diversity, we look forward to more events that celebrate and
honor the various cultures represented within our school
community.
10/31/2023 Spooktacular Fun at Our Halloween Parade and Costume Contest!
Get ready for some spine-tingling excitement! Our school
recently hosted a Halloween Parade and Costume Contest that
turned our blacktop into a thrilling spectacle of creativity and
fun. The Halloween Parade was a vibrant and lively showcase
of the incredible creativity and imagination of our
students. Decked out in their funniest, most creative, and
most original costumes, our students paraded through the blacktop
track, delighting everyone with their unique
transformations. From adorable superheroes to silly
monsters, the parade was a visual feast for
all!
Who wore it best? The highlight of the event was the highly
anticipated Costume Contest. Our staff and students had put
their hearts and souls into their costumes, and it was time to
let their efforts shine! The judges has the challenging
task of selecting the winners from an array of extraordinary
outfits. Each category, such as as “Most Creative,” and
“Funniest Costume,” brought its own set of jaw-dropping entries,
making the decision-making process even more
challenging.
This event not only provided a fun-filled morning but also
encouraged our students to express themselves and fostered a
sense of community and belonging. As we bid farewell to
this memorable celebration, we eagerly anticipate the magic and
excitement that future events will bring to our school
community.
10/27/2023 A Bountiful Fall Harvest Carnival
Camellia PTSO recently hosted a Fall Harvest Carnival, a festive
event that brought our community together for a day of
laughter, games, and delicious treats. It was a celebration
of the season’s bounty and a fantastic opportunity for families
and friends to enjoy quality time together. It was a
testament to the incredible spirit and support of our parent and
staff volunteers and our PTSO board members. We are
immensely grateful for their dedication and hard work in making
this event a memorable experience for everyone. As we look
back on this wonderful celebration, we are reminded of the
strength and unity that the Camellia community
possesses.
10/23/2023 Uniting for a Drug-Free Future: School Red Ribbon Spirit Wear
Red Ribbon Spirit Wear Week was an incredible experience that
united our school community in the fight against drug
abuse. Through the power of red ribbons and spirited
attire, our students showed their commitment to living a
drug-free life and supporting one another. The themed days
added a fun and engaging element to the week, fostering
conversations about healthy choices and personal
empowerment. Congrats to Ms. Her and Ms. Feliciano’s
classes for winning the ice cream party for the most
participants!
Celebrating Excellence: A Student Award Assembly with a Twist!
At Camellia, we believe in recognizing and celebrating the
achievements of our students beyond just their academic
performance. Our special award assemblies not only honored
outstanding academic but also highlighted good citizenship.
To add an extra layer of excitement and unity, we introduced a
fun group game contest for the award recipients. By
combining awards, recognition, and a game contest, we aimed to
instill lifelong values in our students. Through this
innovative approach, we hope to inspire our students to continue
striving for excellence while embracing the values of empathy,
unity, and collaboration through their
lives.
Exploring the Magic of Seeds: A First Grade Adventure
In the fascinating world of nature, few things hold as much
wonder and potential as seeds. Recently, Ms. Student’s
first grade class embarked on an exciting journey of discovery as
they delved into the mysteries of seeds. Through hands-on
experiences and planting adventures, our young learners had the
unique opportunity to embarked on this journey that ignited
curiosity and nurtured responsibility. This hands-on
adventure will forever leave an imprint on their young minds,
fostering a lifelong appreciation for the beauty and potential
hidden within every seed.
10/20/2023 Unleashing Team Spirit!
Sports play a crucial role in a well-rounded education, teaching
students valuable life skills beyond the classroom.
Camellia participated in the SCUSD flag football league that may
not have ended in victory, but it was a resounding success in
terms of fostering teamwork, camaraderie, and sportsmanship among
our students. Through the joy of participation, they
learned the power of collaboration, the value of fair play, and
the importance of embracing challenges with a positive
mindset. Our flag football event was a testament to the
fact that the true spirit of sports lies not only in winning but
in the invaluable life lessons learned along the
way.
10/11/2023 Camellia Walking Wednesdays!
Walking Wednesday is an initiative that sets the tone for a
positive and productive day. Each Wednesday morning, all
students, staff, and parents/guardians participate in a
25-minutes walk before class begins. This simple yet
powerful routine not only promotes physical fitness but also
creates an opportunity for students to connect with their peers,
teachers, and the surrounding environment. Walking together
encourages conversations, laughter, and a sense of camaraderie,
building relationships that extend beyond the classroom
walls.
10/4/2023 Meet the Courageous Cougar!
Representing our school spirit and determination, our mascot, the
Courageous Cougar, embodies the values we hold dear. The
Cougar symbolizes strength, resilience, and unity, inspiring our
students to embrace these qualities in their daily lives.
Here at Camellia, the Courageous Cougar unites us as one big
roaring family, fostering a sense of pride and belonging within
our school community.
8/25/2023 Embracing Unity and Empowerment
At the heart of Camellia’s success are our exceptional
teachers. They are the guiding stars who ignite the love
for learning in our students. With their passion,
dedication, and innovative teaching methods, they create an
engaging and nurturing environment where every student feels
valued and supported. From their infectious enthusiasm to
their unwavering commitment, our teachers truly make a difference
in the lives of our students, helping them grow academically,
socially, and emotionally.
8/21/2023 Sweet Beginnings
At Camellia, we believe in starting the school year on a sweet note! As a way of welcoming parents, students, and staff back to campus, PTSO hosted an exciting Welcome Back to School Ice Cream Social & Root Beer Floats for our families. This creates an opportunity for our school community to reconnect, build relationships, and set the stage for a successful academic year.
Welcome Back to School is a highly anticipated event that brings together families, teachers, and students. The Back to School Ice Cream Social event truly was a sweet treat for all. But…what made our ice cream social and back to school night even more special is the addition of root beer floats! The fizzy excitement of making and enjoying root beer floats added an extra layer of fun to the event, making it a memorable experience for everyone.
CBES Family Science Night and Science Fair
Each year in the Spring, Camellia Basic Elementary School holds an annual ‘Family Science Night’ and Grades 4-6 Science Fair conjointly. The intent of this event is to give all CBES students the opportunity to experience hands-on science and create some science of their own. Thank you to our Science Fair coordinators, judges, support staff, and families for making this event a huge success!
CBES Tree Planting Day
CBES students, staff, family volunteers, and STF staff gathered together on March 24th to plant several trees on campus. The trees will provide much needed shade. Each classroom will adopt a tree to name and serve as guardians.
Cougar Basketball Team
The Cougar Basketball Team gave a strong effort in every game. Our players never give up during the game and continue to give their all! Their dedication is undeniable! Keep up the hard work, Cougars!
ASES Chopped Challenge 2023
Congrats to our students who represented Camellia Basic during the SCUSD Hiram Johnson Feeder Pattern Chopped Challenge. It is a cooking competition where students are divided up into a Primary and Intermediate division competing against other schools, Phoebe Hearst, Peter Burnett, Nicolas, Pacific, Caleb Greenwood, and Camellia. Every school had a different country with ours being Turkey.
Camellia placed 1st for Primary (returning champion), and Intermediate placed 2nd. We are so proud of our Cougars, the Team Leaders, Cayleigh and Karen, who helped them, AND the teachers who taste test, Mrs. Pham and Mr. Fadum.
January 2023: Lunar New Year Celebration!
We kicked off 2023 by celebrating our Annual Lunar New Year with students, staff, and Camellia families on January 27th! It was such a joy seeing our community come together as we welcome the Year of the Rabbit! PTSO also hosted a very successful bamboo plants sell! Thank you to everyone who participated in our Lunar New Year Parade and bamboo plant fundraiser! Celebrating the Lunar New Year was a great opportunity for our Cougars and families to foster global understanding and learn about other cultures.
December 2022: Wee Bazaar & Schoolwide Holiday Sing-Along
Our Cougars participated in a schoolwide old-fashioned holiday “Sing Along”. It was very informal and a lot of fun!
Wee Bazaar was held on the last week before Winter break. The purpose of this project was to have fun making crafts and promote sales at the Wee Bazaar- hoping students would want to buy what they made for their families.
November 2022: Hmong New Year
CBES celebrated Hmong New Year with presentations from HUSA (Hmong University Student Association from CSUS) and renown dancer Kazoua Yang.
October 2022: Harvest Carnival, Halloween Parade, & Red Ribbon Week
October was a busy month for Camellia! CBES prepared three fun-filled events for our staff, students and families! Our annual Harvest Festival was held on Friday, October 28, 2022 at 2:00pm and the annual Halloween Parade was held on Monday, October 31, 2022 at 9:30am.
Students and staff kicked off Red Ribbon Week by participating in daily spirit wear. Red Ribbon Week is to celebrate alcohol, tobacco and other drug violence prevention awareness.