CMS students kicked off our first Connections period of the year, an opportunity for students and staff to build strong relationships and strengthen our school community. Small groups met throughout the building to learn more about the purpose of Connections: getting to know one another, supporting each other through challenges and successes, and developing skills that help students thrive. Sixth graders began with an engaging mindfulness activity and then personalized their new Connections journals. Seventh graders put teamwork to the test with a cup-building challenge that required them to plan, collaborate, revise their ideas, and work toward a common goal. Eighth graders connected in a variety of creative ways, including writing “Dear Me” letters to their future selves, designing “All About Me” puzzle pieces, and contributing to collaborative artwork that sparked conversations about their interests. Across CMS, the first Connections period provided students and staff with time to have fun, learn more about one another, and continue building a community where everyone feels connected and supported.