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8th Grade Life

8th grade students reflect on what makes a successful year

Picture of Varsity Volleyball A team

As the 25-26 school year comes to an end, Monroe’s eighth graders reflect on a year filled with friendships, leadership, growth, and unforgettable memories. 

Many students shared that they enjoy spending time with friends outside, playing sports, and talking.  “I like how I can talk and laugh with (my friends),” shares Anais A, “because it makes me feel good.”

Memories have been also made participating in sports and school events.  Emily K. shared that she enjoys working with her teammates as well as improving on her sport skills.  Several Girls’ Volleyball team members have said that it was their favorite sport and that they had been looking forward to it all year.

Many 8th grade students have also said that time management has become a little more difficult this year with higher level academics, more requirements and higher expectations.

Through fun moments, challenges, and “last” experiences, many agreed on one piece of advice: enjoy the moment and make the most of your time because it goes by fast.

Story written by 8th grade students Anais A. & Larenn C.

Student Athletes Learn to Balance School and Academics

Middle School students share how they are learning to balance sports and school.

8th grader Liam S. showing his fielding skills on his Little League team in 2024.

Balancing school and sports can be especially challenging for middle school student-athletes. At this age, students are learning how to manage more homework, harder classes, and growing responsibilities—while also committing to practices, games, and team events.

 For many middle school athletes, the key to success is time management. Eighth grade student, Cean Cruz shared, “You really have to be committed to the sport, but also need to make time to get work done.” Some students schedule a specific time to get their work done while others use calendars or reminders.  Bella Merino, a 7th grade student periodically goes through her backpack and assignments to see if she is missing anything.

Support from coaches, parents, and teammates also plays an important role. Coaches may remind players that ‘grades come first’, and teammates often encourage each other to stay focused in class. Even though balancing both can be tiring, students say it teaches them responsibility and discipline.

Being a middle school student-athlete isn’t always easy, but it helps students build strong habits, confidence, and teamwork skills that will benefit them in high school and beyond.

Written by Emma D. (7th grade softball player) & Liam S. (8th grade baseball player)

 

Meet CUSD's Newest Trustee

Get to know Campbell Union School District's newest trustee, Sam Krow-Lucal.

Area 5 trustee Sam Krow-Lucal is taking the oath of office. The oath is presented by Superintendent Viramontez and fellow board members are looking on.

Meet Trustree, Area 5, Sam Krow-Lucal. Krow-Lucal, a proud Capri parent and longtime Campbell resident, took the oath of office on March 12, 2026. Running for the Campbell Union School Board had been something Krow-Lucal had been considering for a long time and with the encouragement of his friends decided to take action upon the retirement of seasoned trustee Danielle M.S. Cohen.

When asked what he viewed as Campbell Union School District’s greatest strength, Krow-Lucal had no hesitation in his response - stability. “People are proud of what we (CUSD) are doing,” Krow-Lucal commented. “Having a superintendent who has been in the role for ten years and having board members that stay for multiple terms speaks to the culture of the district.”

He specifically named the continuous improvement work that the district is engaged in as an additional district strength. “Having feedback loops and being conscious of how we can move the district forward is something that sets us up for success long term. Having that culture of evaluation and introspection is very important. We have it. I think it is going to continue to benefit us.”

When asked how he would define student success, Krow-Lucal was quick to note that student success is more than a test score, “It’s that growth from the beginning of the year to the end of the year. It is also enjoying that growth and wanting to continue it.”

Fun facts about Trustee Krow-Lucal

  • He is an avid sports fan. He played soccer in college and for a semi-pro team upon graduation.
  • Pablo Torre Finds Out is his favorite podcast.
  • His favorite school lunch was hamburgers.
  • Favorite teacher was his fourth grade teacher, Mrs. Porter.
  • His favorite subjects in school were history and math. He has a degree in history.
  • The one word he uses to describe his leadership style - supportive.

Join us for the 2026 Art, Innovation, and Music Showcase

The 2026 Art, Innovation, and Music (AIM) Showcase is Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at Monroe Middle School.

Family exploring projects at last year's AIM Showcase.

The 2026 Art, Innovation, and Music (AIM) Showcase is Wednesday, March 11, 2026. The showcase features student projects and performances. This year, Santa Clara County Supervisor, District Four, Susan Ellenberg will be presenting Campbell Union School District with a Proclamation honoring March as Art Education and Youth Art Month. Additionally, ten student pieces have been selected by D4 Arts 4 All for display at the County Building (70 W. Hedding) and will be recognized at the showcase. All families are welcome!

When: Wednesday, March 11, 2026

Time: 4:00-6:00p.m.

Where: Monroe Middle School

1055 S. Monroe St. San Jose, CA 95128

AIM Showcase Donation

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