Welcome!

School Vision Statement

We believe all children are capable of learning, and it is our responsibility to provide a rich, positive, safe and engaging environment that fosters a desire to learn and meet the challenges of a changing world.

School Mission Statement

Together, our staff, parents, students and the community are dedicated to the ongoing education of all young people at Neil Cummins Elementary School.

We work collaboratively to teach, mentor, motivate, challenge, and inspire our students. Our goal is for our students to become independent, critical thinkers who respond ethically to the challenges facing the world.

We accomplish our mission through a well-rounded curriculum including rigorous academic instruction. We differentiate the curriculum to meet divergent learning styles in a variety of ways, including implementing experiential, thematic and project-based learning wherever appropriate. Our focus is on educating the whole child, addressing cognitive, emotional, social, and physical growth. Best practices are enhanced by frequent assessment, regular opportunities for reflection, and innovative, ongoing professional development for our highly qualified, inspirational staff.

Colored Pencils in heart shape

Neil Cummins Elementary News

  • Nov 6, 2025 · Neil Cummins Elementary
    Neil Cummins Weekly November 2, 2025

  • Image from RSS
    Oct 19, 2025 · Neil Cummins Elementary
    Neil Cummins Weekly October 19, 2025






    SPARKtober Classroom Participation Challenge – 10 Days Left! We’re currently at 21% participation, so now is the time to donate to SPARK and push for 100% in every classroom! Every donation, no matter the size, helps us get closer to our goal. It’s time to rally your classmates and embrace the friendly competition.




    Click HERE to donate to SPARK today!

    UPCOMING DATES

    October 22 Picture Retake Day - Please let your teacher know if you would like your student to have a retake.

    October 22 Unity Day - Please wear orange to unite against bullying - show support for kindness!

    October 22-24 Grade 5 - Outdoor Education

    October 29 Annual SPARK Giving Day

    October 31 Halloween Parade - NC Blacktop - 8:15am


    PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE


    Principal’s Message


    Halloween at Neil Cummins- October 31, 2025


    We are looking forward to a fun and safe Halloween Celebration on Thursday,  October 31st, at Neil Cummins. All students may wear costumes that do not interfere with their learning. Please make sure that costumes are age-appropriate for K-5 and respectful of different cultures.


    Guidelines for costumes at school: No masks,  no inflatable costumes in the classroom or during recess or lunch.  No blood, no weapons or props (nothing scary or gory), no props/accessories in school please. We are not allowing makeup products or hair products at school. (All makeup or hair products must be applied at home with no “touch ups” at school!


    We will have a special All School Gathering for our Halloween costume parade at 8:20am on Thursday, October 31st. All Families are invited to join and gather to see the parade. Students will be in the center of the track. Please parents gather between the track and the gym and face toward the grass so you can see the Musical Theater performance.


    Musical Theater Dance Performances:  Grades 2, 3 and 4 will be performing Halloween inspired dances they learned in musical theater class with Ms. Sloan! This will be from approximately 1:35-2:00pm on Friday, October 31 on the blacktop, immediately following the kindergarten parade. All parents are invited to join us!


    WEATHER PERMITTING: We will gather on the blacktop. All students will sit with their class INSIDE the oval track (painted in white). Parents please gather between the track and the gym facing the grass. Classes will be called to “parade” around the track for all students and parents to view and appreciate! This is not mandatory for students- they can sit inside the track and watch or they can choose to “parade” around the track. 


    IF WEATHER IS NOT GOOD: We will move to be in the gym. Each class will be called up to parade across the stage in their costumes (only students who want to participate- not mandatory!). Parents are invited to view from corner seats of the bleachers in the gym or sideline chairs/standing during our Costume Parade on the stage.


    Sincerely,
    Kyle Shaw, Principal

    5th Grade Outdoor Education: This week from Oct 22-24, our 5th graders will travel to the Marin Headlands for the outdoor science education program. They spend 3 days (2 nights) along with the Cove 5th graders in the Marin Headlands. Led by the naturalists from NatureBridge, students experienced hands-on scientific exploration in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. I want to give a HUGE thank you to our 5th grade teachers for organizing and being lead participants in this experience, to our courageous parent chaperones who give up precious sleep and time, and to all 5th grade parents for their financial support and for preparing their children for this special trip. This trip builds memories for a lifetime!


    Morning Drop-off and afternoon pick-up: For the safety of all our students, please do not pull into the visitor spots to drop off or pick up your child. During these busy times, many students are walking and riding their bikes through the area, and having cars drive in creates a dangerous situation. Recently, we have experienced some very near misses. We ask that you use street parking and walk in or park in the lot near Town Park to drop students off in the morning or pick them up in the afternoon. Additionally, you should not stop your car in the street to drop off students. This blocks traffic and creates an unsafe situation for them. Please park your car in a parking spot on the street and walk on the sidewalks 


    The main entrance is especially busy this school year for walkers, bikers, and cars. Please consider using an alternate entrance (Town Park, Cafe Verde, or the Hickory bike path) to alleviate congestion at the main entrance.


    Thank you for being patient, kind, and supportive as we all work together to protect our students and keep them safe and help pick-up and drop-off run smoothly. Your cooperation makes a difference! Let's work together to prevent accidents before they happen.


    Board Vacancy

    There is an open seat on the LCMSD Governing Board following the resignation of Trustee Eric Schmautz. Thank you for your service Eric! The application window is from October 8 - 24, with candidate interviews scheduled for November 12, 2025. The Becoming a Trustee Workshop materials can be found HERE under district news.


    Board Updates: 

    On October 15, 2025 the Board met and began with an update on PBIS from Neil Cummins Principal Kyle Shaw. A public hearing to sunshine LCMEA and LCMSD proposals for negotiations was held. Additionally, Trustees approved school plans.  Beginning of the year i-Ready and DIBELS data, as well as information regarding a potential Marin County middle school athletics league were presented. All agendas can be found here.


    SCHOOL & PTO NEWS

    Please sign up to help with lunch during October and November! The time is from 11:15am until 1:15pm each day. Please choose an open slot or two.  We appreciate your help! The sign up link is HERE.


    Birthday Book Program 

    Calling all October birthdays. Check backpacks this week for your Birthday Book Program flyer, it’s your turn! 

    October 22, 2025: Unity Day – people wear orange to unite against bullying and show support for kindness and inclusion.


    Lunchtime Recess Enrichment Activities

    Lunch  Games with Coach Arroyo

    • When? Mondays | 12:20-1:05 PM

    • Where? The blacktop

    • What? Fun P.E. games in the gym? (Such as dodgeball, indoor soccer, volleyball, etc.)


    Garden Fun with Ms. Natalie

    • When? Tuesdays | 12:20-1:05 PM (Except the 1st Tuesday of the month)

    • Where? Garden

    • What? Activities include helping Ms. Natalie with garden jobs such as watering, planting, harvesting, cutting compost, and hanging out in the garden.


    Gaelic Football with Neil Cummins Parent Chris Lennon

    • When? Wednesdays | 12:20-1:05 PM

    • Where? The blacktop

    • What? Gaelic football is the most popular sport in Ireland; 80,000 people go to the amateur finals every year in Dublin! See here and here.  Chris is Irish and has played and coached Gaelic football his whole life! Thank you, Chris! 


    Dance with Ms. Ena

    • When? Thursdays | 12:20-1:05 PM 

    • Where? The blacktop

    • What? Dance with E.N.A is a cherished local dance studio that many of our students attend. Founder and director Enakshi Vyas will lead weekly sessions for all our students. They will learn fun dance fundamentals and routines across all genres! A great way to get moving at recess. 


    Learn to Knit with Neil Cummins Parent Lauren Quint

    • When? Tuesdays & Friday | 12:20-1:05 PM 

    • Where? Music Room

    • What? Come learn fiber arts! Create friendship bracelets or learn to knit. We have beautiful string and yarn available. Beginners and experienced students in any grade are welcome.


    Magic with Mr. Gapinski

    • When? Friday | 12:20-12:50 PM

    • Where? Room E2 

    • What? 3rd–5th graders who enjoy (or want to learn!) Magic: The Gathering Join us to play friendly games, learn new strategies, and meet other MTG fans. All experience levels are welcome—beginners too!

    Help us capture great memories for the yearbook! 

    Upload any photos you take at class events here:  https://share.picturesqr.com/dsyqsi/

    It’s super easy, just click and upload. Our Yearbook team is diligent about making sure every student's face is represented (and omitting those who don't consent to photo sharing), so submit any photos you have and the team will do the rest.


    Parent Ed Calendar and Counted out Screening Nov 4th

    Did you know that you can download all parent ed events to your calendar. Just click HERE

    Reminder: Counted out Screening Nov 4th, Register HERE. More info to come next week!

    Support Our School While You Shop! 

    The PTO offers several ongoing discounts and givebacks that benefit Neil Cummins throughout the year. These vendors donate a portion of your purchases directly back to our school, helping fund programs like the garden, enrichment, and more. 

    • Minted: Use promo code FUNDRAISENEIL at checkout to enjoy 20% off holiday cards and gifts. 10% of net sales from your order will be donated back to Neil Cummins PTO.

    • Sloat Garden Centers: Shopping at Sloat October 17 - 26? The Hawks’ Garden participates in the Sloat Growing Up Green Fundraiser where any purchases earn 10% back directly for the school garden. Stock up on your fall plants and garden supplies, and help our outdoor classroom grow at the same time! Check out details HERE.

    • Sports Basement: Become a Basementeer and select Neil Cummins Elementary, you’ll get 10% off, and the school gets 10% back.

    Good Eggs: Enter code GoodEggsForNeilCummins at checkout for a 5% giveback.
    Walk and Roll to School Updates

    Become a Safe Routes Neighborhood Captain!

    The Safe Routes Team is looking for parents to act as neighborhood captains for Walk & Roll to School days. Your role as a neighborhood captain would be to help echo the Safe Routes events and agenda and promote walking and rolling to school regularly. You would help coordinate walking buses and generally encourage the use of green methods of transportation to and from school.

    If you are interested in this awesome position, please reach out to neilcumminssaferoutes@gmail.com

    __________________________

    Walk and Roll for Ruby on Friday, November 14.

    Join a national celebration of the spirit of Ruby Bridges, who, as a six-year-old African American girl in Louisiana in the 1960s, bravely helped integrate an all-white school.

    It was Ruby’s daily walk to school—despite bullying and threats—that we honor by walking, biking, rolling, carpooling, or parking-and-walking to school.

    Come to the Safe Routes to Schools’ welcome table on the morning of Friday, November 14 to receive a prize!

    ____________________________

    “Buddy Up” Contest – Nominations Close November 15!

    Do your students walk, bike, skateboard, carpool, or ride the school bus together? Nominate them for the “Buddy Up” Contest from Safe Routes to Schools before November 15!

    Celebrate friendship, fun, and courage as two or more students team up to get to school in a healthy and environmentally friendly way. Any adult—a parent, teacher, neighbor, or friend—can submit a nomination. Four winning groups (2 elementary and 2 middle school) will each receive a $50 group prize!

    Nominate here or visit https://www.saferoutestoschools.org/ for more information.


    The Hawks’ Garden


    Calling all Ocean Guardians! Join the team. 

    We’re thrilled to share that Neil Cummins has earned our second year as an Ocean Guardian School! This year we have the opportunity to earn a third year and another banner. 

    We are inviting all 4th and 5th graders to take action for our planet by caring for our local watershed and helping protect the water and wildlife that connect us all. Here’s a reminder of what the team achieved last year.

    To sign up your student to the Ocean Guardian team email helen.jenkins@me.com. Our first meeting is October 27! 


    Shopping at Sloat Oct 17 - 26? The Hawks’ Garden participates in the Sloat Growing Up Green Fundraiser where any purchases earn 10% back directly for the school garden. Stock up on your fall plants and garden supplies, and help our outdoor classroom grow at the same time! Check out details HERE.

    Read all our garden news on the Hawks’ Garden Blog


    SPARK NEWS

    SPARKtober Classroom Participation Challenge – 10 Days Left!

    The countdown is on! We have 10 days left of our Participation Challenge, with our deadline set for October 29th. We’re currently at 21% participation, so now is the time to donate to SPARK and push for 100% in every classroom!


    Every donation, no matter the size, helps us get closer to our goal. It’s time to rally your classmates and embrace the friendly competition.


    When we hit our 70% SPARKtober participation goal, every student in the district will enjoy a sweet treat! Plus, classrooms that reach 100% participation will receive a pizza and ice cream party!


    Let’s SPARK up SPARKtober and rally together for our students, teachers and schools! 





    Click HERE to donate to SPARK today!

    Follow SPARK on Instagram & Facebook to stay up to date with all the latest news, events and opportunities to get involved.


    COMMUNITY NEWS

    Click here for our Community News page.


    • Marine Lab Open House - October 19

    • Twin Cities Community Pre-School Trike-a-thon Information

    • Make It Home Reverse Garage Sale Information



    58 Mohawk, Corte Madera, CA 94925 | Phone 415-927-6965


    The Neil Cummins Weekly is a digital bulletin distributed to the school community each Sunday via email. To submit an article, email Lyn Everly leverly@lcmschools.org. Articles must be received by Wednesday at 3:00 p.m. in order to be included in the next issue.

     Need more information? Contact The Weekly editors or visit one of the following Web sites:  Neil Cummins Larkspur- Corte Madera School District,

     Neil Cummins PTO  or SPARK .

     

    © 2025-2026 Larkspur-Corte Madera School District. All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy








  • Image from RSS
    Oct 17, 2025 · Neil Cummins Elementary
    Neil Cummins School Tours for 2026-27

    School Tour dates for the upcoming 2026-27 school year will be held:


    Sign up for a tour HERE.


  • Oct 16, 2025 · Neil Cummins Elementary
    Drop-off and Pick-up Procedures - IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ

    Dear Neil Cummins Families,

    Morning Drop-off and afternoon pick-up: For the safety of all our students, please do not pull into the visitor spots to drop off or pick up your child. During these busy times, many students are walking and riding their bikes through the area, and having cars drive in creates a dangerous situation. Recently, we have experienced some very near misses. We ask that you use street parking and walk in or park in the lot near Town Park to drop students off in the morning or pick them up in the afternoon. Additionally, you should not stop your car in the street to drop off students. This blocks traffic and creates an unsafe situation for them. Please park your car in a parking spot on the street and walk on the sidewalks 


    The main entrance is especially busy this school year for walkers, bikers, and cars. Please consider using an alternate entrance (Town Park, Cafe Verde, or the Hickory bike path) to alleviate congestion at the main entrance.

    Thank you for being patient, kind, and supportive as we all work together to protect our students and keep them safe and help pick-up and drop-off run smoothly. Your cooperation makes a difference! Let's work together to prevent accidents before they happen.


  • Image from RSS
    Oct 12, 2025 · Neil Cummins Elementary
    Neil Cummins Weekly October 12, 2025





    UPCOMING DATES

    October 15 All School Assembly - NC Gym - 8:30am

    October 15 LCMSD Board Mtg. - Hall Middle School - 6:00pm

    October 17 Superintendent Coffee Chat - NC Music Room. - 8:30am

    October 22 Picture Retake Day - Please let your teacher know if you would like your student to have a retake.

    October 22-24 Grade 5 - Outdoor Education

    October 29 Annual SPARK Giving Day

    October 31 Halloween Parade - NC Blacktop - 8:15am

    PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

    Great Shakeout Emergency Preparedness


    Hello Neil Cummins Families,


    The Great Shakeout Earthquake Drill - On Thursday, October 16th at 10:40am, our school is participating in the Great Shakeout earthquake disaster drill with a full evacuation. We are doing this Great Shakeout event this week along with several other schools and districts in the US and internationally. 


    Please do not plan to pick your child up between 10:40-11:30am on Thursday 10/16. If you do arrive to pick up your child during that time, you will need to come to the blacktop and wait several minutes for our emergency release protocols to be set up and carried out. The Great Shakeout website has great material for your own family to prepare in the case of a major disaster or emergency.  Please take a moment to read this important information about our school’s disaster preparation and response and remember to list emergency contacts for your child in Aeries in case you cannot pick them up in case of emergency. The people listed in our system are the only ones to whom we can release your child. 


    We practice so we are prepared! Thank you for your support.


    Sincerely,

    Kyle Shaw, Principal


    Morning Drop-off and afternoon pick-up: For the safety of all our students, please do not pull into drop off or park in the visitor spots to drop off or pick up your child. During these busy times, many students are walking and riding their bikes through the area, and having cars drive in creates a dangerous situation. Recently, we have experienced some very near misses. We ask that you use street parking and walk in or park in the lot near Town Park to drop students off in the morning or pick them up in the afternoon. Thank you for being patient, kind, and supportive as we all work together to protect our students and keep them safe and help pick-up and drop-off run smoothly. Your cooperation makes a difference! Let's work together to prevent accidents before they happen.


    Superintendent Coffee Chat: October 17, 8:30–9:30 a.m. at Neil Cummins
    Coffee chats are a great venue for parents to learn more and partner with our schools. This month’s chat will begin with a brief overview of 2025 CAASPP data, followed by an open discussion where any and all questions are encouraged. As always, parents from all schools are welcome to attend.

     

    Board Vacancy
    There is an open seat on the LCMSD Governing Board following the resignation of Trustee Eric Schmautz. Thank you for your service Eric! The application window is from October 8 - 24, with candidate interviews scheduled for November 12, 2025. The Becoming a Trustee Workshop materials can be found HERE under district news.

     

    Board Updates: 

    On October 15, 2025 the Board will meet at 6:00 in the Hall Library where Neil Cummins Principal Kyle Shaw, will provide an update. A public hearing to sunshine LCMEA and LCMSD proposals for negotiations will be held. Additionally, Trustees will vote on school plans.  Beginning of the year i-Ready and DIBELS data will be presented, as well as information regarding a potential Marin County middle school athletics league. Trustees will also discuss the upcoming Board vacancy. The meeting will be live streamed via Zoom (link; passcode - lcmsd). Please know, public comments will only be taken by in person attendees; public comments via Zoom will not be available. We hope to see you there. All agendas can be found here.

    SCHOOL & PTO NEWS

    There are still several time slots open for October and November and we could really use your help! The time is from 11:15am until 1:15pm each day. Please choose an open slot or two.  We appreciate your help! The sign up link is HERE.


    The Buddy Up contest is back! Kids who BUDDY UP this fall to walk (park and walk), bike, scoot, carpool, or ride with friends - can be NOMINATED for a chance to win the Buddy Up Challenge for a $50 gift card. Habits are more likely to form for students who travel in groups of 2 or more to school. Plus, there’s safety in numbers. The Buddy Up Challenge goes until October 31, so there’s still time for kids to get a Buddy group going. Nominate your group here. 


    Lunchtime Recess Enrichment Activities


    Lunch  Games with Coach Arroyo

    • When? Mondays | 12:20-1:05 PM

    • Where? The blacktop

    • What? Fun P.E. games in the gym? (Such as dodgeball, indoor soccer, volleyball, etc.)

    Garden Fun with Ms. Natalie

    • When? Tuesdays | 12:20-1:05 PM (Except the 1st Tuesday of the month)

    • Where? Garden

    • What? Activities include helping Ms. Natalie with garden jobs such as watering, planting, harvesting, cutting compost, and hanging out in the garden.

    Gaelic Football with Neil Cummins Parent Chris Lennon

    • When? Wednesdays | 12:20-1:05 PM

    • Where? The blacktop

    • What? Gaelic football is the most popular sport in Ireland; 80,000 people go to the amateur finals every year in Dublin! See here and here.  Chris is Irish and has played and coached Gaelic football his whole life! Thank you, Chris! 

    Dance with Ms. Ena

    • When? Thursdays | 12:20-1:05 PM 

    • Where? The blacktop

    • What? Dance with E.N.A is a cherished local dance studio that many of our students attend. Founder and director Enakshi Vyas will lead weekly sessions for all our students. They will learn fun dance fundamentals and routines across all genres! A great way to get moving at recess. 

    If you are interested in participating in recess enrichment, please reach out! In the past, we have had parents and teachers lead magic, art, yoga, soccer and more! This is a fun way to get involved with our community and also provide structure to our recess times. We look forward to hearing your ideas!

    More Volunteer Opportunities 

    Click   HERE   if you’re interested in getting involved!

    • Readathon Lead Shadow - Learn the ropes this year, co-lead next year!

    • Readathon Committee - Help plan events, prizes, and reading fun. 

    • Video Editor (Readathon) - Short-term gig, help us polish our annual Readathon video.

    • Variety Show Lead - Bring the magic of our annual show to life.

    • Variety Show Committee - Support rehearsals & event logistics.

    • Recess Enrichment - Bring joy to recess with art, sports, crafts, or anything you love to do!

    Support Our School While You Shop! 

    The PTO offers several ongoing discounts and givebacks that benefit Neil Cummins throughout the year. These vendors donate a portion of your purchases directly back to our school, helping fund programs like the garden, enrichment, and more. 

    • Sloat Garden Centers: Shopping at Sloat October 17 - 26? The Hawks’ Garden participates in the Sloat Growing Up Green Fundraiser where any purchases earn 10% back directly for the school garden. Stock up on your fall plants and garden supplies, and help our outdoor classroom grow at the same time! Check out details HERE.

    • Minted: Use promo code FUNDRAISENEIL at checkout to enjoy 20% off holiday cards and gifts. 10% of net sales from your order will be donated back to Neil Cummins PTO.

    • Sports Basement: Become a Basementeer and select Neil Cummins Elementary, you’ll get 10% off, and the school gets 10% back.

    • Good Eggs: Enter code GoodEggsForNeilCummins at checkout for a 5% giveback.

    Thank you for supporting Neil Cummins every time you shop!


    The Hawks’ Garden

    Shopping at Sloat Oct 17 - 26? The Hawks’ Garden participates in the Sloat Growing Up Green Fundraiser where any purchases earn 10% back directly for the school garden. Stock up on your fall plants and garden supplies, and help our outdoor classroom grow at the same time! Check out details HERE.

    Read all our garden news on the Hawks’ Garden Blog

    SPARK NEWS

    Click HERE to donate to SPARK today!

    Follow SPARK on Instagram & Facebook to stay up to date with all the latest news, events and opportunities to get involved.

    COMMUNITY NEWS

    Click here for our Community News page.

    • Marine Lab Open House - October 19

    • Twin Cities Softball Registration Information

    • Twin Cities Community Pre-School Trike-a-thon Information

    • Make It Home Reverse Garage Sale Information



    58 Mohawk, Corte Madera, CA 94925 | Phone 415-927-6965


    The Neil Cummins Weekly is a digital bulletin distributed to the school community each Sunday via email. To submit an article, email Lyn Everly leverly@lcmschools.org Articles must be received by Wednesday at 3:00 p.m. in order to be included in the next issue.

     Need more information? Contact The Weekly editors or visit one of the following Web sites:  Neil Cummins Larkspur- Corte Madera School Distric,  Neil Cummins PTO  or SPARK .

     

    © 2025-2026 Larkspur-Corte Madera School District. All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy




  • Image from RSS
    Oct 9, 2025 · Neil Cummins Elementary
    Strong Student Growth Reflected in 2025 CAASPP Results

     

    Quick Facts:
    • Growth in All Areas: English Language Arts (+2%), Math (+5%), and Science (+3%)

    • More than 50% of students exceed math standards at all schools (and over 76% met or exceed standards)

    • CAASPP student score reports for current 4th-8th graders can be accessed via Aeries

    • District and school CAASPP data can be accessed here

    • Detailed CAASPP Board Report


    Dear LCMSD Community,

    Today, the 2025 California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) results were publicly released by the California Department of Education. They are available here. We’re excited to share that LCMSD students continue to excel as LCMSD CAASPP results show gains across all subjects:

    • English Language Arts (ELA): +2%

    • Mathematics: +5%

    • Science: +3%

    These results reflect the dedication of our students, teachers, staff, and families. It is important to note that more than half of our students exceed standards in math at every school, with 76%+ meeting or exceeding standards.

    Each spring, LCMSD students in grades 3-8 participate in the CAASPP assessments, which measure critical thinking, problem-solving, and writing aligned to California’s academic standards. These assessments provide one valuable snapshot of student learning - alongside daily classroom work, projects, and teacher feedback - to help us ensure every student is growing and thriving.

    We are proud that this growth is being seen districtwide. The increases in all three subjects show that our long-term focus on literacy, Cognitively Guided Instruction in math, and data-driven interventions is making a difference. These efforts, combined with high-quality teaching, dedicated support staff, and strong family partnerships, are helping students reach new levels of success.

    While we celebrate this continued progress, we also remain focused on helping every child meet or exceed state standards. Continuous improvement is part of our culture, and we will use these data to guide next steps in curriculum, instruction, and targeted support.

    For families, individual CAASPP score reports for current 4th–8th graders are now available in Aeries. To access your child’s report, log in to Aeries Parent Portal and select Test Scores from the menu.

    We invite you to review the detailed CAASPP Report shared at the September 17 Board Meeting for a deeper look at our district and school results.

    Congratulations to our students, teachers, staff, and families - your hard work is paying off!

    With pride and gratitude,

    Dr. Brett Geithman
    Superintendent

    Daniel Norbutas
    Senior Director of Educational Services & Technology



    LCMSD Board of Trustees
    Amir Movafaghi, President 
    Beth Blair, Vice President
    Natalie Medved, Clerk
    Ava Fruin

    Superintendent
    Brett Geithman, Ed.D.


    Oct 6, 2025 · Neil Cummins Elementary
    LCMSD Update 10.6.25

     

    Too Long, Didn’t Read (TLDR)

    • Where’s My Teacher? Understanding Professional Development in LCMSD

    • Becoming a Trustee Workshop – October 8 at 5:00 via Zoom; recording available October 9

    • Superintendent Coffee Chat – October 17, 8:30–9:30 a.m. at Neil Cummins (open forum)

    • E-Bike Safety Reminder from CMPA

    • “Let’s Talk” Parent Education – First Elementary Session

    Dear LCMSD Community,

    It’s been a full and engaging start to October! I want to thank the many families who participated in SPARK in the Park yesterday. Events like this help strengthen the connections that make LCMSD such a special place to learn and grow.

    Also, today kicked off Parent-Teacher Conference Week, an important opportunity to connect with your child’s teacher, celebrate growth, and discuss goals for the months ahead. We deeply appreciate the time and collaboration that go into these conversations - they are an essential part of our shared commitment to student success.

    Below are a few additional updates and opportunities to connect this month.

    Thank you,

    Dr. Brett Geithman
    Superintendent

    Where’s My Teacher? Understanding Professional Development in LCMSD
    From time to time, you may hear that your child’s teacher is out for the day to participate in professional learning. These days are not just time away from the classroom - they are an essential part of how we continually grow as educators and strengthen teaching and learning across the district.

    At LCMSD, we believe that ongoing professional growth is central to providing the best educational experience for our students. Our professional development framework is multi-layered and intentionally designed to build shared understanding, deepen expertise, and personalize growth.

    We are fortunate to have three instructional coaches who guide much of this work:

    • Lisa Capobianco – Literacy Coach

    • Beth Hawkins – CGI Math Coach

    • Nathan Beach – Depth and Complexity Coach (20%)

    Our professional learning model includes several interconnected layers:

    • Foundational PD – Full-day sessions designed to establish a shared, districtwide understanding of key initiatives and best practices.

    • School-Level PD – Site-specific professional learning tied to each school’s goals, often integrated into staff meetings and site-based planning.

    • Department (Hall) and Grade-Level (Elementary) Lab Days – Teachers collaborate in teams to analyze data, plan Tier 1 instruction, and engage in classroom-based learning experiences where strategies are modeled and practiced. These sessions are led by our instructional coaches, and substitutes are utilized to cover classrooms.

    • EL Education Lab Days  – This year, teachers and administrators will also engage with EL Education staff developers through several Lab Days focused on modeling lessons and deepening understanding of our newly adopted literacy curriculum.

    • Individual Coaching – At the most personalized level, teachers work one-on-one with instructional coaches who provide them support tailored to their classroom needs.

    Our professional learning focus areas for 2025–26 include:

    • Implementing EL Education in literacy across all schools

    • Implementing Depth and Complexity at Hall Middle School

    • Continuing support for Cognitively Guided Instruction (CGI) in mathematics

    Through this intentional and layered approach, LCMSD educators continue to learn, reflect, and refine their practice, ensuring that every student benefits from high-quality, research-based instruction every day. Thank you in advance for your support and understanding when your child’s teacher is engaging in this important work. 

    Becoming a Trustee Workshop: Wednesday, October 8 at 5:00 via Zoom (LINK)
    With a current vacancy on the LCMSD Board of Trustees, this workshop is a great opportunity for community members to learn more about what it means to serve. Current Trustees and I will share information about the role, responsibilities, and appointment process. Whether you are considering applying or simply want to better understand Board governance, we encourage you to attend. A recording will be posted (HEREon October 9 for anyone unable to join live.

    Superintendent Coffee Chat: October 17, 8:30–9:30 a.m. at Neil Cummins
    Coffee chats are a great venue for parents to learn more and partner with our schools. This month’s chat will be open-ended - any and all questions are encouraged. As always, parents from all schools are welcome to attend.

    E-Bike Safety Message from CMPA
    The Central Marin Police Authority (CMPA) reminds families that only certain e-bikes are legally permitted for student use; please see this letter from Chief Norton. Note, only Class 1 e-bikes are permitted on LCMSD campuses and no e-scooters are allowed. For more information, please visit this website. Thank you for helping us keep students safe on their way to and from school.

    Parent Education: “Let’s Talk” Series
    Supported by the Marin County Office of Education (MCOE) and Raising the Bar, we invite parents and caregivers to join the first elementary session of the Let’s Talk series on Wednesday, October 15, from 7:00–8:30 p.m. via Zoom. Guest speaker Annie Egan, MA, will guide a discussion on key parenting topics, including:

    • Different parenting styles

    • Effective communication strategies

    • Building strong, trusting connections with children

    Click HERE for details and registration information.

    LCMSD Board of Trustees
    Amir Movafaghi, President 
    Beth Blair, Vice President
    Natalie Medved, Clerk
    Ava Fruin

    Superintendent
    Brett Geithman, Ed.D.



  • Image from RSS
    Oct 5, 2025 · Neil Cummins Elementary
    Neil Cummins Weekly October 5th, 2025






    UPCOMING DATES

    October 5 SPARK in the Park 3:00-6:00pm - Corte Madera Town Park

    October 6-10 Conference Week - Early dismissal each day at 1:30pm

    October 8 International Walk & Roll to School Day 7:45am - NC Blacktop and Kinder gate

    October 8 Becoming a Trustee Workshop 5:00pm (Zoom- LINK)

    October 15 All School Assembly - NC Gym - 8:30am

    October 15 LCMSD Board Mtg. - Hall Middle School - 6:00pm

    October 17 Superintendent Coffee Chat - NC Music Room. - 8:30am

    October 22 Picture Retake Day - Please let your teacher know if you would like your student to have a retake.

    October 22-24 Grade 5 - Outdoor Education

    October 29 Annual SPARK Giving Day


    PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE


    Message From Our School Counselor Ms. Galli

    Dear Families,

    This year, your child has begun their Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) journey through our Neil Cummins Comprehensive School Counseling Program. Thank you to Spark for your continued support and funding for our program. Each grade is engaging in developmentally appropriate lessons designed to help them build important life skills, strengthen relationships, and support their overall well-being. 

    So far this year, students have explored:

    • Kindergarten: Listening

    • 1st Grade: Identifying feelings

    • 2nd Grade: Understanding the size of the problem

    • 3rd Grade: The circle of control

    • 4th Grade: Mental health awareness

    • 5th Grade: Goal setting

    This month, students will continue to grow by learning:

    • Kindergarten: Following directions

    • 1st Grade: Expressing feelings

    • 2nd Grade: How to bounce back

    • 3rd Grade: Coping Skills 101

    • 4th Grade: Coping and mindfulness

    • 5th Grade: Being organized

    We are excited to see our students practicing these skills both in and out of the classroom. Together, we are building a foundation that helps every child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

    With gratitude,

    Quinn Galli

    Sparktober is Here!


    Donate to SPARK today!



    Morning Drop-off and afternoon pick-up: For the safety of all our students, please do not pull into the parking lot to drop off or pick up your child. During these busy times, many students are walking and riding their bikes through the area, and having cars drive in creates a dangerous situation. Recently, there was a very near miss with a student on a bike. We ask that you use street parking and walk in to drop students off in the morning or pick them up in the afternoon. 


    Message from Assistant Principal, Harrison Blatt:

    School attendance is essential! Ensure that on-time arrival and staying for the entire school day are an utmost priority. Routines and consistency go a long way. We understand that illness, medical appointments, and other circumstances arise. Please do your best to minimize being absent from school and reach out to school staff if you experience challenges. We are here to support! 


    Board Vacancy
    There is an open seat on the LCMSD Governing Board following the resignation of Trustee Eric Schmautz. Thank you for your service Eric! The application window is from October 8 - 24, with candidate interviews scheduled for November 12, 2025. An informational meeting on “Becoming a Trustee” will be held via Zoom (LINK) on October 8, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. The recording will be posted on the home page of the District’s website.


    SCHOOL & PTO NEWS

    Lunchtime Recess Enrichment Activities


    Gaelic Football with Neil Cummins Parent Chris Lennon

    • When? Wednesdays | 12:20-1:05 PM

    • Where? The blacktop

    • What? Gaelic football is the most popular sport in Ireland; 80,000 people go to the amateur finals every year in Dublin! See here and here.  Chris is Irish and has played and coached Gaelic football his whole life! Thank you, Chris! 

    Dance with Ms. Ena

    • When? Thursdays | 12:20-1:05 PM 

    • Where? The blacktop

    • What? Dance with E.N.A is a cherished local dance studio that many of our students attend. Founder and director Enakshi Vyas will lead weekly sessions for all our students. They will learn fun dance fundamentals and routines across all genres! A great way to get moving at recess. 

    If you are interested in participating in recess enrichment, please reach out! In the past, we have had parents and teachers lead magic, art, yoga, soccer and more! This is a fun way to get involved with our community and also provide structure to our recess times. We look forward to hearing your ideas!

    More Volunteer Opportunities 

    Click   HERE   if you’re interested in getting involved!

    • Readathon Lead Shadow - Learn the ropes this year, co-lead next year!

    • Readathon Committee - Help plan events, prizes, and reading fun. 

    • Video Editor (Readathon) - Short-term gig, help us polish our annual Readathon video.

    • Variety Show Lead - Bring the magic of our annual show to life.

    • Variety Show Committee - Support rehearsals & event logistics.

    • Recess Enrichment - Bring joy to recess with art, sports, crafts, or anything you love to do!

    Get Ready for International Walk to School Day on October 8th!


    It’s almost here - and we can’t wait to celebrate walking, rolling, and having fun on the way to school! October 8th is International Walk & Roll to School Day. Encourage your friends to walk and roll to school with you! All who walk, bike, or carpool can come to the welcome table for a prize and to enter to win a raffle drawing. Winners will be announced at an upcoming assembly. Get your group ready for a fun time!


    Plus - the Buddy Up contest is back! Kids who BUDDY UP this fall to walk (park and walk), bike, scoot, carpool, or ride with friends - can be NOMINATED for a chance to win the Buddy Up Challenge for a $50 gift card. Habits are more likely to form for students who travel in groups of 2 or more to school. Plus, there’s safety in numbers. The Buddy Up Challenge goes until October 31, so there’s still time for kids to get a Buddy group going. Nominate your group here. 


    Support Our School While You Shop! 

    The PTO offers several ongoing discounts and givebacks that benefit Neil Cummins throughout the year. These vendors donate a portion of your purchases directly back to our school, helping fund programs like the garden, enrichment, and more. 

    • Sloat Garden Centers: Mention Neil Cummins during your shopping outing, and 10% of your purchase goes to our garden projects.

    • Minted: Use promo code FUNDRAISENEIL at checkout to enjoy 20% off holiday cards and gifts. 10% of net sales from your order will be donated back to Neil Cummins PTO.

    • Sports Basement: Become a Basementeer and select Neil Cummins Elementary, you’ll get 10% off, and the school gets 10% back.

    • Good Eggs: Enter code GoodEggsForNeilCummins at checkout for a 5% giveback.

    Thank you for supporting Neil Cummins every time you shop!


    The Hawks’ Garden


    Garden Happenings

    Don’t forget, our garden is open during Lunch Recess on Tuesdays (except for the first Tuesday of the month)! Miss Natalie can take up to 15 students.


    Read all our garden news on the Hawks’ Garden Blog


    SPARK NEWS


    Join us today at SPARK in the Park from 3-6PM at Town Park!

    Tickets available onsite.




    Donate to SPARK today!



    Follow SPARK on Instagram & Facebook to stay up to date with all the latest news, events and opportunities to get involved.



    COMMUNITY NEWS

    Click here for our Community News page.


    • Signup for available Park & Rec after school classes

    • Learn about the Community SkyWhale Mural

    • Marine Lab Open House - October 19

    • Twin Cities Softball Registration Information



    58 Mohawk, Corte Madera, CA 94925 | Phone 415-927-6965


    The Neil Cummins Weekly is a digital bulletin distributed to the school community each Sunday via email. To submit an article, email Lyn Everly at leverly@lcmschools.org. Articles must be received by Wednesday at 3:00 p.m. in order to be included in the next issue.

     Need more information? Contact The Weekly editors or visit one of the following Web sites:  Neil Cummins Larkspur- Corte Madera School District Neil Cummins PTO  or SPARK .

     

    © 2025-2026 Larkspur-Corte Madera School District. All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy








Events

|
No events for November, 2025
November 2025
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat