World Cultures Program
Expanding Our Elementary Language Program into a Global Learning Experience
We are excited to share the evolution of our elementary language program. Beginning this year, our traditional Spanish class will expand into a World Cultures program for students in Grades 1–5. Middle school students in grades 6-8 will continue to study the Spanish language as a core class, completing Spanish 1 in 8th grade. This new program maintains the strengths of language learning while broadening students’ understanding of the world. Through a combination of geography, culture, civics, and introductory world languages, students will explore how people live, learn, and connect across the globe.
Why the Change?
While Spanish remains an important and valued part of our curriculum, we recognize that today’s students benefit from a wider global perspective. The World Cultures program allows students in grades 1-5 to:
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Develop global awareness and cultural understanding
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Explore multiple regions of the world each year
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Build curiosity, empathy, and respect for diverse perspectives
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Continue learning language in a meaningful, connected context
 Rather than focusing on a single language, students will now experience language as part of culture, using key words and phrases from around the world.
What Students Will Learn
Each grade level focuses on a primary region of the world, while also exploring other regions throughout the year.
Students will:
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Learn to read and interpret maps
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Explore environments, traditions, and daily life across cultures
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Understand basic civic ideas such as community, rules, and cooperation
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Compare similarities and differences between regions
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Participate in hands-on, project-based learning experiences
World Language Component
Students will continue to engage in language learning each week through a “language sampler” approach.
Throughout the year, students will:
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Practice greetings, counting (1–20), and colors in multiple languages
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Learn language connected to the region they are studying
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Build confidence using simple words and phrases
Spanish will remain a key part of the program, especially in Grade 1, while additional languages such as French, Mandarin, Swahili, and Arabic are introduced in age-appropriate ways.
How Instruction Works
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Classes meet once per week
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Lessons are interactive and include discussion, visuals, and hands-on activities
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Students work at developmentally appropriate levels across grades
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Each trimester includes a culminating project or presentation
What This Means for Students
By the end of the program, students will:
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Have a strong foundation in global geography and cultural understanding
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Be able to compare regions and explain how people live around the world
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Feel confident using basic words from multiple languages
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Develop skills in communication, collaboration, and critical thinking
Our Goal
 Our goal is to help students see themselves as part of a larger, interconnected world. The World Cultures program prepares students not only for future language study, but also for thoughtful participation in a diverse and global society. If you have any questions about this program, we welcome your partnership and conversation.
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New Personnel and Position Changes
We are so excited to introduce our new staff and faculty. Welcome to the Clairbourn family!
 Jack Anderson joins Clairbourn as our new Physical Education Teacher and Coach. With extensive experience leading physical education, athletics, and youth programs, Coach Anderson brings a dynamic, student-centered approach that promotes healthy lifestyles, teamwork, and personal growth. He holds a Master of Science in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Curriculum and Instruction from Cal Poly Pomona and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a Physical Education Teaching Concentration from the University of La Verne. Most recently, he served as a Physical Education Specialist at an independent school in the San Gabriel Valley, where he developed and implemented a comprehensive PE curriculum while also coaching multiple athletic teams and leading after-school and summer camp programs. Passionate about helping students build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong appreciation for physical activity, Coach Anderson is excited to inspire Clairbourn students through engaging, active, and meaningful learning experiences.
 Cris Aguilar joins Clairbourn as our new Music Teacher. He will work closely with our Music Director, Mr. Elmore. A dedicated classical musician with more than twenty-five years of performance experience and over a decade of teaching young musicians, Mr. Aguilar brings both artistic excellence and a genuine passion for music education. He earned a Bachelor of Music in French Horn Performance from Azusa Pacific University and has performed with distinguished ensembles, including the Azusa Pacific Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble. He plays 23 different instruments, and his teaching experience includes leading elementary music instruction through San Gabriel Unified School District's Music Immersion Experience, mentoring students in instrumental performance, and directing rehearsals, concerts, and special performances. Committed to fostering confidence, collaboration, and a lifelong appreciation for music, we are excited to have him inspire Clairbourn students through growth-oriented and enriching musical experiences.
 Elizabeth Sampson joins Clairbourn as our new Art Teacher. Ms. Sampson is an artist with a dedicated practice in painting and ceramics. She holds a Master of Arts in Education from Virginia Commonwealth University, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting from George Mason University, and is a licensed Visual Arts educator for grades PreK–12. With experience teaching in both schools and museums across the United States and internationally, Ms. Sampson brings a creative, student-centered approach that encourages exploration, self-expression, and artistic confidence. Her background includes developing engaging, choice-based art curricula, leading school-wide exhibitions, and teaching a wide range of media, including ceramics, sculpture, painting, drawing, printmaking, and textiles. Passionate about nurturing curiosity and creativity in young artists, Ms. Sampson is excited to inspire Clairbourn students through joyful artistic experiences.
 We are delighted to announce Kyra Evarts as Clairbourn’s new Librarian. With a strong background in supporting children, developing engaging educational programs, and fostering positive learning environments, Ms. Evarts brings warmth, creativity, and a deep commitment to helping every child grow. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of New Hampshire. She has extensive experience working with children through schools, behavioral health services, and youth camps, where she designed enriching activities, led teams, and helped young people build confidence and independence. Having also served as a substitute teacher at Clairbourn, she already knows many of our students and is excited to build on those relationships in her new role. Passionate about cultivating a lifelong love of reading, Ms. Evarts looks forward to creating a welcoming library where curiosity flourishes, stories spark imagination, and students discover the joy of books while developing strong research and literacy skills. We are excited to have her inspire Clairbourn students to become enthusiastic readers and lifelong learners.
 We are pleased to welcome Leah Tessier to Clairbourn as our new Second Grade Teacher. An experienced elementary educator with a passion for helping students grow academically and personally, Mrs. Tessier brings more than two decades of teaching experience across a variety of grade levels. She holds a Master of Arts in Multicultural Education and a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from National University, as well as a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater and Vocal Performance from The Boston Conservatory of Music. Most recently, she served as a Reading and Math Intervention Specialist, supporting kindergarten through third-grade students in building strong foundational skills through targeted instruction and ongoing assessment. Her background also includes teaching in both traditional and bilingual elementary school settings, where she fostered engaging, student-centered classrooms while integrating the arts into learning. Passionate about nurturing confident, curious learners, Mrs. Tessier looks forward to creating an engaging classroom where students are challenged, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.
 We welcome Laurie Corwin back to Clairbourn as our World Cultures Teacher and Student Support Specialist. An experienced educator with a passion for history and social studies, Laurie brings a thoughtful, engaging approach to helping students develop a deeper understanding of the world and its diverse cultures. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from Occidental College, a Master of Arts in History from the University of Southern California, and holds a California Single Subject Teaching Credential in History. In her new role, she will teach World Cultures to students in grades 1–5 while also providing targeted academic support, alongside Mrs. Senkbeil, to help students build confidence and master essential learning standards. We are pleased to have Laurie rejoin the Clairbourn community and look forward to the knowledge, enthusiasm, and care she will bring to our students each day.
 We happily announce that Mrs. Kelly Hung will be transitioning into the role of Admissions Associate at Clairbourn. A familiar and trusted presence in our community, Mrs. Hung has made a lasting impact as a second grade teacher, building meaningful relationships with colleagues, students, and families through her warmth, dedication, and enthusiasm for learning. Her deep understanding of the Clairbourn experience, combined with her outstanding communication skills and genuine care for our community, makes her a wonderful fit for this new role. As Admissions Associate, she will have the opportunity to welcome prospective families, share the unique qualities of a Clairbourn education, and help guide them through the admissions process. We are thrilled that Mrs. Hung will continue to be an important part of our community and look forward to the positive impact she will have in helping new families discover all that Clairbourn has to offer.
 We are excited to share that Shannon Halim will be stepping into the role of Kindergarten Teacher at Clairbourn. Already a beloved member of our community, she has made a meaningful impact through her work as a Preschool Assistant and Daycare Teacher, where she has built strong relationships with students, families, and colleagues. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Child Development from California State University, Los Angeles, and a Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Education Entrepreneurship from the University of Pennsylvania. Her experience includes teaching in Montessori and elementary classroom settings, providing individualized academic support, and creating engaging, hands-on learning experiences that nurture both academic and social-emotional growth. Mrs. Halim is excited to take on this new role, and we are confident that her warmth, dedication, and passion for early childhood education will inspire our Kindergarten students as they continue to grow in confidence, independence, and a love of learning. To ensure consistency for our students, Mrs. Halim will co-teach with Mrs. Shoemake when she returns from leave.
 Please join us in welcoming Mervelin Aviles to the Clairbourn community as our new Preschool Assistant and Daycare Supervisor. She brings a strong background in working with children and a passion for supporting their growth through active, engaging, and nurturing experiences. Ms. Aviles earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from California State University, Los Angeles, where she also completed the subject matter preparation program for a Single Subject Teaching Credential. With experience in physical education, youth coaching, classroom and after-school program instruction and management, she is committed to creating a safe, caring environment where young children can build confidence, develop foundational skills, and enjoy learning through play. Ms. Aviles is excited to support and nurture our youngest students and become an integral part of the Clairbourn community.
 Luis Reyes joins Clairbourn as our new Accounts Payable, Purchasing, and IT Help Desk Coordinator. He holds a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Texas, Austin, and brings valuable experience from the nonprofit sector, where he coordinated workforce development programs throughout Los Angeles County. His background in program coordination, organization, and relationship-building has equipped him with exceptional problem-solving and customer service skills, making him well-suited to support the day-to-day operations of our school. With a collaborative spirit and a commitment to serving others, Mr. Reyes looks forward to working with our faculty and staff, helping ensure our business office and campus operations run smoothly. |
Students entering
fourth through eighth grades: Required Summer Reading
At Clairbourn, reading is big part of a student's daily life. From individual quiet reading time to library read alouds, book fairs, and buddy reading across grade levels, Clairbourn students embrace all aspects of reading! Our teachers carefully put together summer reading resources for students entering fourth to eighth grade. Cougars, let's continue your love for reading this summer.
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| | Special Lunch Orders are Due by August 14!
Click here to order from the special lunch menu, served on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
We're bringing back your favorites, including Habit, KFC, and Panda, along with an exciting new vendor, Hot Dog on a Stick! Please submit your orders by August 14 to avoid any delays. Our first special lunch day features a fan favorite, Chanos Tacos, on Thursday, August 27! For questions, please contact the Special Lunch Chair, Vanessa Miranda. |
After-School Enrichment Classes
1. Parker-Anderson
ENROLLMENT DEADLINE IS AUGUST 20! Clairbourn partners with Parker-Anderson to offer after-school care and preschool to eighth grade enrichment classes.
Please check the flyers below:
2. PK - Third Grade Lango After School Language Classes
PK-K Lango Spanish enrichment classes are offered on Tuesday and Thursday. First through third Lango Spanish enrichment classes are offered on Monday and Wednesday.
Questions about enrichment classes?
3. Clairbourn Preschool After-School Daycare
Enrollment for the Clairbourn After-School Daycare Program 2026 - 2027 is open for JPK and PK! The contract is available on the Resource Page in CougarNet.
For further assistance, please contact Stephanie Chang in the Business Office.
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Welcome from CFA
Hello Clairbourn Family!
As you enjoy these last few weeks of summer break, we’re looking forward to welcoming you back for another incredible school year. Whether you’re returning to our community or joining the Clairbourn family for the very first time, we’re excited to have you with us.
This year is filled with exciting events that bring our community together. We can't wait to kick off the year at our Family Social, where you'll reconnect with familiar faces and meet new friends. This will help lead us into our Book Fair, where a love of reading comes to life. Then we’ll have the Entrepreneurial Fair, where our students showcase their creativity and innovation, and during the holiday season we host the beloved Sugar Plum, one of Clairbourn's most treasured traditions.
These are just a few of the many opportunities to connect, volunteer, and celebrate together. Whether you can lend a helping hand at an event, cheer on our students, or simply join us for the fun, your involvement helps make our school community extraordinary.
On behalf of the Clairbourn Family Association, thank you for being an important part of what makes Clairbourn such a special place. We look forward to seeing you throughout the year and making this one our best yet. Here's to a year filled with learning, laughter, friendship, and unforgettable memories.
Warmly,
Melissa Nijjar and
Apryle Ferguson CFA Presidents, Clairbourn School
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Important Dates
First day of school is Wednesday, August 26!
Wednesday, August 19
The math placement test for new students entering grades six through eight will be held on Wednesday, August 19 in the math room from 2 to 3 p.m.
Tuesday, August 25
Kindergarten orientation is from 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. and JPK and PK orientation is from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. More details to come.
Tuesday, August 25
Wednesday, August 26
Used Uniform Sale will be held outside Cougar Corner on Tuesday, August 25, and Wednesday, August 26, from 8:00–10:00 a.m. It will also be open on Wednesday, August 26, from 2:30–3:30 p.m.
Wednesday, August 26
Please attend the first day of school coffee for all families, following Morning Assembly.
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Clairbourn
CFA Site
Use this link to access our CFA Site where you can add funds to your child’s Cougar Corner account, purchase book fair merchandise, order Special Lunch meals, as well as sign up to volunteer for various events. |
Important School Forms
1. Complete Required Forms
Please complete all required forms found in your CougarNet account. If you have any questions about completing forms, or have difficulty logging in, please contact the school. Only required forms will have automatic email notification. There are also optional forms you may want to fill out in CougarNet.
2. Register With Magnus Health
Please enter all requested health information into your Magnus account right away. All families must complete Magnus Health forms and submit their child’s immunization records before school begins. Please use this CougarNet link for Magnus Health in the Resource Board section to provide your information. New families must complete the Magnus Health and new student forms by 8/1/2026.
If you need help, please contact Nick Jubilado in the Health Office, or call 626-286-3108, ext. 117.
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School Uniforms
School uniforms can be purchased by visiting the official supplier for uniforms and ties Lands’ End. Parents will need to set up an account on the Lands’ End website. We encourage you to plan early!
Clairbourn School Number: 900030693 and Clairbourn Crest (School Logo) Code: 1688904K
Important note: there is no need to order PE uniforms since they will be provided for each student in grades six through eight.
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For assistance, please reach out to the appropriate contact below.
Health forms:
626-286-3108 ext. 117
School after care:
626-286-3108 ext. 110
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