Calendar:

December 19 – January 3:  Winter Break – No School
January 4:  School Reopens
January 6:  Ice Skating Party at Winter Lodge, 5:30 PM

Palo Verde and PTA Announcements:

From the desk of Principal Lupe Garcia…

It’s the time of year when we ask our students to take extra precaution as they travel to and from school and to make sure NOT to approach or get into a strangers’ car– regardless of the situation.

On Tuesday morning, a student came into our school Main Office and informed us that he felt like someone had followed him on the way to school.  In this case the student did the right things and he is safe.  However, I thought I’d share this with you to serve as a reminder for all of us to stay alert and vigilant.

Specific information: an older red Toyota (Camry or Corolla) drove behind a Palo Verde student who was on Colorado heading toward Louis Road on his way to school.  The student was riding his bike on Colorado and turned left onto Louis Rd at the intersection.  The car continued behind the student on Louis Road heading south towards Palo Verde– that is, until the student took evasive action on a side street.  The student turned right and the car followed– but the student quickly made a U-turn and returned to Louis Road and continued on to school.  The car did not pursue at that point.   We called the police from school and reported the situation.  They are following up with the investigation.

Driver: Caucasian; late 20s to early 30s– w/goatee; wore a grey beanie and blue jacket
Car:     Cherry red with scratches on the hood and on the back bumper, by the license plate
License plate: started with the number: 4

If you see this car, please do not approach it.  Just call 911 and inform the police of the car’s specific location.

Parents, please have a conversation with your child about stranger safety.  Urge him/her to:

• Be vigilant and remain aware of surroundings and the people nearby.
• Do not approach a stranger’s car
• Refuse to accept a ride or gifts from a stranger
• If your child feels threatened or scared in any way by an individual, have him/her run to where other people are and get help immediately
• Tell a trusted adult about any situation where an adult makes your child feel uncomfortable or threatened
• Contact the police (call 911), when help is needed immediately 

If you have any questions, please let me know.
–  Lupe Garcia

Reduce Waste and Raise Fund: Purchase a reusable lunch kit at www.citizenpip.com

Did you know that the average school-age child generates 67 lbs of lunch waste each school year? Help us reduce waste at school by packing a waste-free lunch for your kids.  Not only is it better for the environment, but it will reduce our waste collection costs and result in substantial savings for our school.

Help us spend less money on trash and more money on school programs! Palo Verde School has partnered with Citizenpip, a company that sells reusable lunch kits designed to be fun and stylish for kids, and practical and convenient for parents. Everything in the kits is made from eco-friendly and lab-tested materials that are lead-free, PVC-free, phthalate-free, and BPA-free.

Kits include an insulated lunch bag, stainless steel water bottle, BPA-free airtight food containers, stainless steel insulated food jar, stainless steel fork and spoon, and 100% cotton napkins. Purchase a kit, or just the items you need. Purchase a reusable lunch kit at www.citizenpip.com.

During checkout, enter school code ilovePALOVERDE and 15% of your purchase will be donated to Palo Verde School.  Spread the word to family and friends, Palo Verde School> benefits from any purchases with the school

Save The Date!

Palo Verde’s Annual Ice Skating Party
Wednesday, January 6, 2010, 5:30-7:30 PM, Winter Lodge Ice Rink
Sign Up forms will be sent home early December.  Volunteers needed to work the front ticket desk, pizza, and bake sale tables! To volunteer, please call Lori Harrenstien, 856-3237 or iceturtles (at) gmail dot com

Support Track Watch

One of the key short term strategies to combat deaths by suicide on the train tracks is known as “reduction of lethal means to self harm” and the experts advise that making the tracks a less attractive option will likely break the cycle.  Several deaths in one place can create a “hot spot” and reducing means to that site can break the cycle.  Counter intuitively, persons intent on suicide won’t easily just pick another location.  Deterring the suicide by reducing access to the “hot spot” can likely prevent it.   See palylink.paloaltopta.org/enews/trackwatch.pdf to learn more.

You can help by becoming a volunteer Track Watch monitor, write to hopepaloalto@gmail.com. Or you can support the effort financially by sending tax deductible donations (checks payable to the City of Palo Alto) to: Barbara Teixeira c/o Safety Net Fund, Palo Alto Police Dept.  275 Forest Ave. Palo Alto, CA  94301.  To make your tax deductible contribution online, visit http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/depts/csd/community_and_family_resources/safetynet/p4.asp

Former Palo Verde Parent Working with Track Watch

As some of you may know, I am involved in the Palo Alto Track Watch.  After meeting with the city, Police Chief, and other people, we have managed to have lights installed at the tracks and even a paid security guard for the West Meadow site. We are still watching the Charleston site.  We are trying to raise funds to keep a security guard on the West Meadow site for as long as we need it.

We want to keep our students safe and send the message that we care, and I would like to ask all of you for your help.  The Palo Alto Track Watch Group and students will appreciate it greatly. Please see the article above for information on where to mail a donation or donate online.

Thank you very much,
Marielena Gaona-Mendoza (Palo Alto Track Watcher)
Parent of Matthew, Andrew and Michell Mendoza Former students at Palo Verde and JLS, and  Aunt/caretaker of Jasmin, Ashley and Alex Jimenez

PAUSD Announcements:

Dear Palo Verde families,

Thank you to all who supported and gave during our recent Partners in Education “Donation Days” drive. Parents at our school and across the district were incredibly generous and helped us get every dollar of our $250,000 challenge grant.

At Palo Verde, 140 families have donated to PiE’s annual campaign. We are well on our way and need just 49 more Palo Verde families to reach our school’s participation goal this year.

The strength of our schools and PiE relies on the contributions of ALL of our parents. If you have already given, a heartfelt thank you.  If you have not made your donation this year, we hope you will consider a donation today. Please visit the PiE website at www.papie.org and give what you can. Your contribution — large or small — counts!

Best,
Tania Nanevicz, Palo Verde PiE Rep
P.S. All donations are tax deductible — but must be made before Dec. 31st to qualify for 2009.
Donation Deadlines for 2009 Tax Year Benefit:
Before December 15th, 2009 you may drop off a donation at the school office
Before December 31st, 2009:  All mailed donations need to be postmarked by December 31st or any online credit card/paypal donations on www.papie.org

PAUSD Budget Input Sought
The overall PAUSD budget for 2009/2010 is $153 million. 85% of the budget is personnel-related (i.e. salary + benefits).  Enrollment is 11,680 students.  The projected shortfall or structural deficit is forecast to be $5.7 million for school year 2201/2011, climbing to $10.2 million in 2013/2014.

Click here for an overview of the budget situation.

PAUSD is collecting input from many stakeholders including site councils, principals, staff, PTA members and others in a transparent, iterative, inclusive process. You have the opportunity to consider some options that are being looked at and give your input, or generate new ideas and submit those.

You can take this survey http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Y6L52QG, designed to collect information to help inform the process.  The survey is open now and closes 1/11/10.

Savings recommendations from all stakeholders can be emailed to Assistant Superintendent Scott Bowers at balancedbudget (at) @pausd dot org or, if you prefer that your suggestions be anonymous, to Palo Alto PTA Council Advocacy Chair, Lauren Janov,  janovLL (at) yahoo dot com, who will forward them to Mr. Bowers without attribution.

Paly Theatre Play in a Day
Saturday,  December 19, 8 P0, Haymarket Theatre, Palo Alto High
Come and see “Play in a Day,” Paly Theatre’s most popular event.  Don’t miss this wildly entertaining evening of short one acts, all written, rehearsed and performed within twenty four hours.  Doors open at 7:30; show up early for the best seats.  Tickets $7 Adults, $5 Students/Seniors at the door.  Flyer: palylink.paloaltopta.org/flyers/PIAD2009.jpg

For the Community Kiosk please click here.

For the Palo Alto PTA Council Web site please click here.

PAUSD Everyday Mathematics Parent Information Night
Thurs. Jan. 14, 7-9pm, Barron Park, 800 Barron Avenue, Palo Alto
“Algorithms in Everyday Mathematics (Grades 2-5)”  This session will address the research basis and philosophy for including alternative and traditional algorithms for addition, subtraction, multiplication and division in the mathematics curriculum.  Discussion and presentations will include examples of the focus algorithms used in Everyday Mathematics and resources for parents to support their children at home.

Flyer:  palylink.paloaltopta.org/enews/mathnightjan14.pdf

Bluegrass Benefit Concert for Juana Briones
Sat. Feb. 20, Doors open 7:30pm, Music at 8pm, Lucie Stern Community Theatre, 1305 Middlefield, Palo Alto
Come out for a great night of music and support Briones Elementary School at the same time.  Bluegrass Concert starring Laurie Lewis (www.laurielewis.com), Tom Rozum and the California All-Stars (Palo Alto Student) Molly (www.jacktuttle.com/Molly) and Jack Tuttle (www.jacktuttle.com) open.  All profits benefit Juana Briones Elementary School PTA.
Tickets $24.50 at the door, $21.50 advance at Gryphon Stringed Instruments, 211 Lambert Ave, Palo Alto, 493-2131
Info:  schoolbenefitconcert@gmail.com

City of Palo Alto Announcements:

Palo Alto City Library Announces Writing Contest For Kids
Deadline: Monday, January 11; Reception: Wednesday, January 27, 3:30 PM, Children’s Library, 1276 Harriet Street, Palo Alto
The Palo Alto City Library announces its 2nd Annual Writing Contest for kids.  Children from grades 2-5 will write an essay no more than 500 words in length on the topic, “How do you help a friend?” Entries may be turned in to any library branch or emailed to librarychildrensservices (at) cityofpaloalto dot org.  Submissions must be received by 9 PM on Monday,  January 11.

The essays will be judged on concept and creativity. Children are eligible to win a 1st place grand prize of a $25 gift certificate to Books Inc. Bookstore.  Additionally, each participant will receive a Culture Organic Frozen Yogurt gift certificate for one small yogurt with a free topping. The winners will be announced at a reception held for all writers.  Sponsored by the Friends of the Palo Alto Library, Culture Organic Frozen Yogurt and Books Inc. Bookstore.

Info:  www.cityofpaloalto.org/library, 329-2436.

Children’s Fine Art Classes in All Mediums for Teens, Kids and Tots
Give the gift of art.  Register someone you love in a Children’s Fine Art class provided by the Palo Alto Art Center.  CFA offers classes at the Junior Museum and Zoo, the Palo Alto Art Center, and Mitchell Park Center.  Most of the teachers are working artists; all of them are wonderful art educators.  They help children learn the skills need to bring creativity into their adult lives.  Your early registration insures you get the classes you want and helps us too.  Winter registration is underway now.  Summer Studio Camps registration lottery deadline is January 14.  Info and to register: enjoyonline.cityofpaloalto.org or 329-2366.  Email larnie.fox (at) cityofpaloalto dot org to join the CFA email list.

Community Announcements:

Living LEGO-CY at The Museum of American Heritage
December 11- January 17, 11 AM – 3:30 PM, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, MOAH 321 Homer, Palo Alto
MOAH, The Bay Area LEGO® User Group (BayLUG) and Bay Area LEGO Train Club (BayLTC) are again combining forces this winter to repeat last year’s spectacular Holiday season display at MOAH.  MOAH visitors can explore a variety of LEGO creations and an operating LEGO train layout featuring a wide variety of creations by club members. Highlighting it all is Holidays in the Bay Area, a 12 by 25 foot train layout incorporating multiple trains running through city, farm, and suburban scenes.  Admission tis free for active MOAH and BayLUG members and $2 per person for all others. Info: 321-1004

Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra to Perform at Dinlelspiel Auditorium
Saturday, December 19, 8 PM, Dinkelspiel Auditorium, Stanford
Concert Features Viola virtuosa Sharon Wei, Benjamin Simon, Conductor.  Program includes Corelli’s Concerto Grosso in G minor,  Max Bruch – Romanze, Benjamin Britten – Lachrymae, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 2 (“Little Russian”).  $15/adult, $10/senior and $5/student.  Info: 856-3848, info (at) pacomusic dot org, www.pacomusic.org

Ragazzi Boys Chorus Workshop
Saturday, January 9, 9:30 AM – 1 PM, Redwood City
The Ragazzi Boys Chorus, a nationally-recognized performing arts organization based on thePeninsula, invites boys ages 7-11 to join them for a free singing and music workshop and optional auditions on Saturday, January 9, in Redwood City. Info or to reserve a spot, please contact Ragazzi, 342-8785, info (at) ragazzi dot org or www.ragazzi.org/audition.htm

Cantabile Youth Singers January Enrollment
Demonstration Classes Mon. Jan. 11 and Thurs. Jan. 14
Cantabile Youth Singers, an organization of five choirs serving children ages 4 to 18, is opening enrollment for the spring semester.  Classes include age appropriate ear training, music theory, and vocal technique, as well as movement, performance, and fun.  Join Cantabile for a no-obligation trial of classes and build relationships, create memories, and make music.
Info: 424-1410, info@cantabile.org, or www.cantabile.org

Meet Your Special Education Director
Wednesday, January 20, 9-11 AM, Covington Elementary Multipurpose Room, 205 Covington Rd, Los Altos
Meet your Special Education Director and hear about existing, new, and planned programs and services in your school district:  Hilarey Davis, Director of Special Education, MVLA High School District, Steve Gingras, Director of Special Education, MVW School District, Anne LePage, Director of Pupil Services, Los Altos School District, and Carol Zepecki, Director of Pupil Services, PAUSD.  Find out how to most effectively work with your special ed team.  Find out how California budget cuts and Federal stimulus money affected programs in our schools. Moderated by Phil Shemanski, SELPA 1 CAC,   Sponsored by the SELPA 1 CAC (www.selpa1cac.org) an all-volunteer group of parents of children with special needs.

Math Contests for Grades 7 and Under
Tues. Feb. 9 or Thurs. Feb. 11, 7-8:15pm, Quinlan Community Center, Cupertino Rm, 10185 North Stelling Road, Cupertino
Cupertino Union School District and City of Cupertino Parks and Recreation Afterschool Enrichment Program Presents:  2010 Primary Math World Team Tryouts.  Tryout to join USA-Silicon Valley team to compete in an International Math Contest in Hong Kong in July 2010.  Fee: $42.
Info:  http://www.mathedge.org/2010pmwc.htm
Online Registration: http://reg4fun.cupertino.org/econnect (Activity #40523 for Tues; or Activity #40524 for Thurs).  Registration questions: Quinlan Center, (408) 777-3120.

MOAH Workshop: Whisper In the Wind: How To Build a Crystal Radio
Sunday January 24 – February 21, 1-3:30 PM, MOAH 321 Homer, Palo Alto
At this Museum of American Heritage workshop, students build their own crystal radio sets, winding coils, drilling a mounting board and placing all components on it, and then wiring the set according to a schematic.  tudents learn radio history dating back to Marconi and Tesla, basic radio theory, modulation, how headphones work, and how to read schematics.  Ages 10 and up; $65 members/$75 non-members.  Registration must be completed by January 19.
Info: www.moah.org

MOAH Workshop: Solid State Electronics & Integrated Circuits
Sunday, February 28 – March 28, 1-3 PM, MOAH 321 Homer, Palo Alto
This Museum of American Heritage course covers the basics of transistor and vacuum tube circuits.  Students learn about the invention and development of tubes and transistors, then the history, development, and uses of integrated circuits.  Students will discover what ICs are made of, how they work, and how they are designed and manufactured right here in Silicon Valley. Students will also learn how to read simple schematic diagrams and build portable radios that use 2 ICs as take-home projects.  Ages 10 and up;  $75 members/$85 non-members.  Registration must be completed by February 23.
Info: www.moah.org

Calendar:

December 16:  PTA Coffee, 8:15 AM

December 16:  Site Council Meeting, 3:30 PM

December 18:  Minimum Day, 1:25 PM dismissal for ALL students

December 19 – January 3:  Winter Break – No School

January 4:  School Reopens

January 6:  Ice Skating Party at Winter Lodge, 5:30 PM

Palo Verde and PTA Announcements:

Lost and Found

Our lost and found cart is overflowing.  Please spend a few minutes looking for your lost items.  The contents of the cart will be emptied on December 18th and all items will be donated.

Save The Date!

Palo Verde’s Annual Ice Skating Party
Wednesday, January 6, 2010, 5:30-7:30 PM, Winter Lodge Ice Rink

Sign Up Forms Will be sent home early December.  Volunteers needed to work the the front ticket desk,
pizza, and bake sale tables!
To volunteer, please call Lori Harrenstien, 856-3237 or iceturtles (at) gmail dot com

PAUSD Announcements:

Dear Palo Verde families,

Thank you to all who supported and gave during our recent Partners in Education “Donation Days” drive. Parents at our school and across the district were incredibly generous and helped us get every dollar of our $250,000 challenge grant.

At Palo Verde, 140 families have donated to PiE’s annual campaign. We are well on our way and need just 49 more Palo Verde families to reach our school’s participation goal this year.

The strength of our schools and PiE relies on the contributions of ALL of our parents. If you have already given, a heartfelt thank you.  If you have not made your donation this year, we hope you will consider a donation today. Please visit the PiE website at www.papie.org and give what you can. Your contribution — large or small — counts!

Best,

Tania Nanevicz, Palo Verde PiE Rep

P.S. All donations are tax deductible — but must be made before Dec. 31st to qualify for 2009.

Donation Deadlines for 2009 Tax Year Benefit:

Before December 15th, 2009 you may drop off a donation at the school office

Before December 31st, 2009:  All mailed donations need to be postmarked by December 31st or any online credit card/paypal donations on www.papie.org

PAUSD Budget Input Sought

The overall PAUSD budget for 2009/2010 is $153 million. 85% of the budget is personnel-related (i.e. salary + benefits).  Enrollment is 11,680 students.  The projected shortfall or structural deficit is forecast to be $5.7 million for school year 2201/2011, climbing to $10.2 million in 2013/2014.

Click here for an overview of the budget situation.

PAUSD is collecting input from many stakeholders including site councils, principals, staff, PTA members and others in a transparent, iterative, inclusive process. You have the opportunity to consider some options that are being looked at and give your input, or generate new ideas and submit those.

You can take this survey http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Y6L52QG, designed to collect information to help inform the process.  The survey is open now and closes 1/11/10.

Savings recommendations from all stakeholders can be emailed to Assistant Superintendent Scott Bowers at balancedbudget (at) @pausd dot org or, if you prefer that your suggestions be anonymous, to Palo Alto PTA Council Advocacy Chair, Lauren Janov,  janovLL (at) yahoo dot com, who will forward them to Mr. Bowers without attribution.

Paly Madrigal Tea and Dinner Concerts
December 11-13, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 600 Colorado Avenue, Palo Alto
Palo Alto High School Choral Dept, under the direction of Michael Najar, perform glorious music mixed with comedic entertainment in not-to-be missed Renaissance-themed afternoon tea and dinner banquets. This year’s Choir benefit includes a Silent Auction and Holiday Gift Boutique.
Doors open 3:15 PM for the Tea Friday, December 11
Doors open 5:45 PM for Dinner Saturday, December 12 and Sunday, December 13
To order ticketst:  www.palychoir.com

Paly Theatre Play in a Day

Saturday,  December 19, 8 P0, Haymarket Theatre, Palo Alto High

Come and see “Play in a Day,” Paly Theatre’s most popular event.  Don’t miss this wildly entertaining evening of short one acts, all written, rehearsed and performed within twenty four hours.  Doors open at 7:30; show up early for the best seats.  Tickets $7 Adults, $5 Students/Seniors at the door.  Flyer: palylink.paloaltopta.org/flyers/PIAD2009.jpg

For the Community Kiosk please click here.

For the Palo Alto PTA Council Web site please click here.

City of Palo Alto Announcements:

Palo Alto City Library Announces Writing Contest For Kids

Deadline: Monday, January 11; Reception: Wednesday, January 27, 3:30 PM, Children’s Library, 1276 Harriet Street, Palo Alto

The Palo Alto City Library announces its 2nd Annual Writing Contest for kids.  Children from grades 2-5 will write an essay no more than 500 words in length on the topic, “How do you help a friend?” Entries may be turned in to any library branch or emailed to librarychildrensservices (at) cityofpaloalto dot org.  Submissions must be received by 9 PM on Monday,  January 11.

The essays will be judged on concept and creativity. Children are eligible to win a 1st place grand prize of a $25 gift certificate to Books Inc. Bookstore.  Additionally, each participant will receive a Culture Organic Frozen Yogurt gift certificate for one small yogurt with a free topping. The winners will be announced at a reception held for all writers.  Sponsored by the Friends of the Palo Alto Library, Culture Organic Frozen Yogurt and Books Inc. Bookstore.

Info:  www.cityofpaloalto.org/library, 329-2436.

Children’s Fine Art Classes in All Mediums for Teens, Kids and Tots

Give the gift of art.  Register someone you love in a Children’s Fine Art class provided by the Palo Alto Art Center.  CFA offers classes at the Junior Museum and Zoo, the Palo Alto Art Center, and Mitchell Park Center.  Most of the teachers are working artists; all of them are wonderful art educators.  They help children learn the skills need to bring creativity into their adult lives.  Your early registration insures you get the classes you want and helps us too.  Winter registration is underway now.  Summer Studio Camps registration lottery deadline is January 14.  Info and to register: enjoyonline.cityofpaloalto.org or 329-2366.  Email larnie.fox (at) cityofpaloalto dot org to join the CFA email list.

Community Announcements:

Plant Oaks on the “Dish” Hill

Saturday, December 12, 10 AM – 1 PM

Since 1979 Magic, www.ecomagic.org, has worked in partnership with Stanford to regenerate native California oaks on university lands. Help plant 50 oak and other California native seedlings this Saturday.  Come dressed in work clothes and sturdy shoes.  Bring personal drinking water, work gloves, and a shovel.  Magic can provide gloves and shovels for those without.  To reserve your place on a planting crew, for details about where to meet, or for other info, please email robin (at) ecomagic dot org or call 323-7333.

Living LEGO-CY at The Museum of American Heritage

December 11- January 17, 11 AM – 3:30 PM, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, MOAH 321 Homer, Palo Alto

MOAH, The Bay Area LEGO® User Group (BayLUG) and Bay Area LEGO Train Club (BayLTC) are again combining forces this winter to repeat last year’s spectacular Holiday season display at MOAH.  MOAH visitors can explore a variety of LEGO creations and an operating LEGO train layout featuring a wide variety of creations by club members. Highlighting it all is Holidays in the Bay Area, a 12 by 25 foot train layout incorporating multiple trains running through city, farm, and suburban scenes.  Admission tis free for active MOAH and BayLUG members and $2 per person for all others. Info: 321-1004

Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra to Perform at Dinlelspiel Auditorium

Saturday, December 19, 8 PM, Dinkelspiel Auditorium, Stanford

Concert Features Viola virtuosa Sharon Wei, Benjamin Simon, Conductor.  Program includes Corelli’s Concerto Grosso in G minor,  Max Bruch – Romanze, Benjamin Britten – Lachrymae, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 2 (“Little Russian”).  $15/adult, $10/senior and $5/student.  Info: 856-3848, info (at) pacomusic dot org, www.pacomusic.org

Ragazzi Boys Chorus Workshop

Saturday, January 9, 9:30 AM – 1 PM, Redwood City

The Ragazzi Boys Chorus, a nationally-recognized performing arts organization based on thePeninsula, invites boys ages 7-11 to join them for a free singing and music workshop and optional auditions on Saturday, January 9, in Redwood City. Info or to reserve a spot, please contact Ragazzi, 342-8785, info (at) ragazzi dot org or www.ragazzi.org/audition.htm

Meet Your Special Education Director

Wednesday, January 20, 9-11 AM, Covington Elementary Multipurpose Room, 205 Covington Rd, Los Altos

Meet your Special Education Director and hear about existing, new, and planned programs and services in your school district:  Hilarey Davis, Director of Special Education, MVLA High School District, Steve Gingras, Director of Special Education, MVW School District, Anne LePage, Director of Pupil Services, Los Altos School District, and Carol Zepecki, Director of Pupil Services, PAUSD.  Find out how to most effectively work with your special ed team.  Find out how California budget cuts and Federal stimulus money affected programs in our schools. Moderated by Phil Shemanski, SELPA 1 CAC,   Sponsored by the SELPA 1 CAC (www.selpa1cac.org) an all-volunteer group of parents of children with special needs.

MOAH Workshop: Whisper In the Wind: How To Build a Crystal Radio

Sunday January 24 – February 21, 1-3:30 PM, MOAH 321 Homer, Palo Alto

At this Museum of American Heritage workshop, students build their own crystal radio sets, winding coils, drilling a mounting board and placing all components on it, and then wiring the set according to a schematic.  tudents learn radio history dating back to Marconi and Tesla, basic radio theory, modulation, how headphones work, and how to read schematics.  Ages 10 and up; $65 members/$75 non-members.  Registration must be completed by January 19.

Info: www.moah.org

MOAH Workshop: Solid State Electronics & Integrated Circuits

Sunday, February 28 – March 28, 1-3 PM, MOAH 321 Homer, Palo Alto

This Museum of American Heritage course covers the basics of transistor and vacuum tube circuits.  Students learn about the invention and development of tubes and transistors, then the history, development, and uses of integrated circuits.  Students will discover what ICs are made of, how they work, and how they are designed and manufactured right here in Silicon Valley. Students will also learn how to read simple schematic diagrams and build portable radios that use 2 ICs as take-home projects.  Ages 10 and up;  $75 members/$85 non-members.  Registration must be completed by February 23.

Info: www.moah.org

PiE News Update

Dear Palo Verde families,

Thank you to all who supported and gave during our recent Partners in Education “Donation Days” drive. Parents at our school and across the district were incredibly generous and helped us get every dollar of our $250,000 challenge grant.

At Palo Verde, 140 families have donated to PiE’s annual campaign. We are well on our way and need just 49 more Palo Verde families to reach our school’s participation goal this year.

The strength of our schools and PiE relies on the contributions of ALL of our parents. If you have already given, a heartfelt thank you. If you have not made your donation this year, we hope you will consider a donation today. Please visit the PiE website at www.papie.org and give what you can. Your contribution — large or small — counts!

Best,
Tania Nanevicz

p.s. All donations are tax deductible — but must be made before Dec. 31st to qualify for 2009.

Donation Deadlines for 2009 Tax Year Benefit

December 15^th, 2009: Donation drop off at school office or any credit card donations (manually filled on a form)

December 31^st, 2009:  All mailed donations (should be postmarked by Dec 31^st) or any online credit card/paypal donations on www.papie.org

The PiE office will be closed from Dec. 18, 2009 – Jan. 3, 2010. We will reopen on Jan 4^th, 2010.

Calendar:

December 18:  PTA Coffee, 8:15 AM
December 18:  Minimum Day, 1:25 Dismissal for ALL students
December 19 – January 3:  No School
January 4:  School Reopens
January 6:  Ice Skating Party at Winter Lodge, 5:30 PM

From the desk of Lupe Garcia:

Dear Palo Verde Parents and Community, 

During this time of year, family and friends typically get together and celebrate in the spirit of the season.  Most of us have much for which to be thankful and take the time and opportunity to embrace “our family” in the spirit of appreciation.  There are also some in our midst and many around the world who are struggling.  I want to encourage all of us to “reach out” and extend a helping hand wherever and whenever possible, either directly or through organizations that provide support to those in need.  In either case, please take the time to embrace and express that joy with those close to you and with others, as possible.

I also want to express my personal gratitude for your thoughtful, kind and ongoing support, all of which has directly benefited our children and our community.  Even during tough economic times you continue to rise to the challenge so that we may provide the best education possible to all our students.  This single-mindedness and dedication to our children and community is what makes Palo Verde and our district so unique.  A sincere and hearty THANK YOU on behalf of the Palo Verde parents, staff, community, and most of all—the students.  We are most grateful for your ongoing support and generosity!

The Palo Verde staff and I wish you and yours a warm, safe, and fun-filled holiday season.  We look forward to an exciting rest of the year— when we return in January 2010. 

Warmest regards,
Lupe García

Palo Verde and PTA Announcements:

Boxes of Books

When the Kepler’s book fair was over, there were 30 empty boxes, representing hundreds of books now being read by our kids, shelved in our classrooms, and wrapped to go under trees or next to menorahs. The final numbers aren’t in, but we know that we raised well over $1,000 for our library.

Thank you to: Kim Amsbaugh, for personally bringing the coffee and treats for the adults’ book talk; Irena Smith and Tracy Stewart, for handing off a great event and still helping! Laura Losier and Lupe Garcia, for reading to kids on Wednesday nightPat Hanley, our former librarian, for helping us every day

Sincere thanks to the following people who unpacked books, ran the cash registers, and repacked books: Jeanette Brosnan, Evelyn Guernsey, Lori Harrenstien, Sophia Gu, Diane Jakubowski, Padmini Krishnan, Joan Kusak, Mala Nayak, Shubha Ranga, Angie Rodriguez, Katharine Saunders, Joanna Schloss, Heather Schultz, Fidelia Wang, and Karen Wang

We had a wonderful time looking at all the books and talking with the Kepler’s staff about literature and look forward to seeing you next fall at our annual Kepler’s book fair!

– Gail Foelsch and Alison Cormack

News From the Palo Verde Library

The Kepler’s Book Fair was a great success this year thanks to the Palo Verde Community.  We raised $2,176 in store-credit for the library.  This will buy around 110 books.  I know the teachers and students will enjoy these high-interest titles.   

I would like to properly thank Gail Foelsch and Alison Cormack for all of their hard work and incredible organization to ensure everything ran smoothly.  Additionally, I would also like to thank the following people who signed up for one more shifts to help:  Mala Nayak, Diane Jakubowski , Joanna Schloss, Pat Hanley ,Tracy Stewart, Fidelia Wang, Katharine Saunders, Irena Smith, Lori Harrenstien, Sophia Gu, Alison Cormack, Kim Amsbaugh , Joan Kusak, Karen Wang, Padmini Krishnan, Jeanette Brosnan, Shubha Ranga, Heather Schultz, Angie Rodriguez and Evelyn Guernsey. Thank you for being so generous with your time. 

Thanks again for your wonderful support of literacy and the library.  It was a great event. 

– Palo Verde Librarian Laura Losier

Family Giving Tree

Once again, Palo Verde is a proud host of The Family Giving Tree.  Please visit the office and select a gift tag.  All gifts must be returned to Palo Verde by Friday, December 11, 2009.  Please do not wrap your gift, just bring it in a bag with the tag securely attached to the bag or the gift.  Also, a new tooth brush would be greatly appreciated.  This is a wonderful opportunity for your child to select a gift for a child who is less fortunate. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Chris in the office (856-1672).

Girls Scout Collections for Soccer Uniforms and Coats

The Daisy and Junior Girl Scout troops of Palo Verde are collecting soccer uniforms and coats as a part of their community projects. The soccer uniforms (shirts, shorts and socks ONLY, no shin guards or shoes) will be sent to our Sister City of Oaxaca, Mexico, for the Child-to-Child Health Program. The coat drive is through the One Warm Coat organization. Please donate gently used coats, sweaters, jackets. The donation will be made to “Project K.E.Y.S”, an organization in East Palo Alto that helps people get back on their feet. The collection bins are near the school office.  Please contact Evelyn Guernsey at jandeg(at)sbcglobal dot net or Dipti Joshi at dsonak(at)yahoo dot com if you have any questions.

Palo Verde Kids Club

The Palo Verde Kids’ Club is an on-site child care program provided by Palo Alto Community Child Care (PACCC).  The program includes snacks, quiet homework time, craft activities, games, outdoor activities and special events. There is currently space available for all five days.  Part day schedules also available. Placement is given on a first come first served basis for both permanent and drop-in care. Hours are 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. For more information:  Raqiyyah Ikram, Director or Kari Taylor, Director, (650) 852-9475 or pvkc@paccc.com

Save The Date!

Palo Verde’s Annual Ice Skating Party will be held Wednesday, January 6, 2010, 5:30-7:30 PM, at the  Winter Lodge Ice Rink. Sign-up forms will be sent home early December.  Volunteers needed to work the front ticket desk, pizza, and bake sale tables! To volunteer, please call Lori Harrenstien, 856-3237 or iceturtles (at) gmail dot com

PAUSD Announcements:

Building Blocks to Student Success
Tuesday, December 8,  6-8 PM, Boys and Girls Club, 2031 Pulgas Ave, East Palo Alto
The Parent Network for Students of Color and Hispanic Community (PNSCHC) with PTA Council and PAUSD invite you to join other Palo Alto Unified School District parents prepared to share what is or isn’t working for your child. Use this informal session to learn great strategies for raising highly successful children.  Childcare and light dinner will be provided.  You are welcome to bring a dish to share if you like.
Venga a reunirse con otros padres del Districto Escolar de Palo Alto (PAUSD) quienes participaran en lo que esta o no esta trabajando para sus niños.  Use esta sesión informal para a prender buenas estategias para cultivar niños exitosos.  Tendremos Guarderia.  Se serbira una cena ligera, pueden traed algo de comer si desean.
Info: Hilda Espinoza, 813-9556 (Español), Kim Bomar, 323-7845 (English), http://www.bigtent.com/groups/parentnet

PTA ArtSpeak!  Workshop: Developing Confidence in Your Creative Ability Through Design Thinking
Thurs. Dec. 10, 7:15pm, Boardroom, 25 Churchill
Led by Ben Grossman-Kahn of the Hasso Plattner Institute of Design at Stanford, aka the d.school, this fun, hands-on workshop is back by popular demand.  Learn about the design process, create a prototype and share your solution with others at the end of the session.  This event is open to the community; adults and students.
Questions, or to be on the ArtSpeak! mailing list: artspeak (at) paloaltopta dotorg
Info:  http://artspeak.paloaltopta.org

Community Announcements:

Palo Alto Art Center Holiday Family Day
Sunday, December 6, 2-4 PM, Palo Alto Art Center, 1313 Newell Road
An afternoon of free art activities for families with children ages 5 and up.  Make gifts, ornaments, cards, and more!  Activities will be led by artists and volunteers from the community and will be accompanied by live Mariachi music!  This free program is made possible by the Palo Alto Art Center Foundation, www.paacf.org

Stanford Email Newsletter, Stanford For You
As a service to the community, Stanford recently launched a free monthly email newsletter, Stanford For You, about upcoming events on campus,  including information about concerts, sports, lectures, parenting and health resources, art exhibits and more.  All of these events are open to the public, and many of them are free.  To subscribe: http://4you.stanford.edu.  You can see the November newsletter at http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs061/1102638954456/archive/1102794696379.html.

Parents Place Winter Workshops
200 Channing Ave., Palo Alto
Parents Place is offering workshops of interest to elementary and middle school parents in their Winter 2010 Quarter. Winter Quarter 2010 workshops include: Empowering Your Daughter to Look Confidently at Herself, Her World, Her Future (for mothers of girls in middle school), $90 for 3/sessions, Bridging the Digital Divide: A Cyberspace Workshop for Parents and Teens (ages 11 up), $35/person, $50/family of 2 or more, For Dads Only – The Joys and Challenges of Fatherhood (all ages), $35, and Setting Limits- Raising Responsible Children Through Choices and Consequences (grades 2 – 8) , $35
Info / Registration: www.ParentsPlaceOnline.org.

District PTA News

You may be aware that there is emergency legislation under consideration related to the Race-to-the-Top funds potentially available from the Federal Gov’t.  In November, the California State Senate approved a fast-track emergency education bill (SBx5 1) it hopes will help California secure part of the Federal government’s $4.35 billion Race to the Top funds. The California State Assembly is next to consider it.

As it turns out there is a provision in the bill that may be troublesome for our district and others.  There isn’t a lot of clarity around this provision yet and it is not necessary to qualify for the Race to the Top funds.  Unfortunately the vote on the bill could be as early as next week so time is short.

Please read the analysis that can be found at http://palylink.paloaltopta.org/enews/PTACRTTTsummary.pdf.  I think you will feel compelled to contact our legislators.

The PTA Council wants to be sure you’re aware of this and have time to voice your opinion.  If you have questions, please contact our Advocacy Chair, Lauren Janov at 650.326.4060 or janovll (at) yahoo dot com

Terry Godfrey, President

Palo Alto Council of PTAs

president (at) paloaltopta dot org

www.paloaltopta.org

Calendar:

December 2:  Restaurant Night at Armadillo Willy’s

December 16:  Site Council Meeting, 3:30 PM

December 18:  Minimum Day, 1:25 Dismissal for ALL students

December 19 – January 3:  No School

January 4:  School Reopens

January 6:  Ice Skating Party at Winter Lodge, 5:30 PM

Palo Verde and PTA Announcements:

Book Fair Success!

Thank you to all the Palo Verde families who came to our Book Fair. This is a long-standing Palo Verde tradition and one we enjoy doing with Kepler’s. Kepler is a wonderful bookstore that is a community-based business that deserves our commitment and patronage. Through the book fair, the teachers now have some great new books in their classrooms and our library will soon have new additions, as well.

As a school community, we also need to thank the volunteers who organized this event. Alison Cormack and Gail Foelsch lead the charge, working closely with Kepler’s throughout the event and organizing the additional volunteers who worked shifts during the fair. Please join me in thanking Alison and Gail as well as the others who helped: Angie Rodriguez, Katharine Saunders, Shubha Ranga, Tracy Stewart, Joan Kusak, Irena Smith, Fidelia Wang, Lori Harrenstien, Joanna Schloss, Pat Hanley, Padmini Krishnan, Karen Wang, Diane Jakubowski, Mala Nayak, Heather Schultz, Jeanette Brisnan, Sophia Gu. Evelyn Guernsey

Family Giving Tree

Once again, Palo Verde is a proud host of The Family Giving Tree.  Please visit the office and select a gift tag.  All gifts must be returned to Palo Verde by Friday, December 11, 2009.  Please do not wrap your gift, just bring it in a bag with the tag securely attached to the bag or the gift.  Also, a new tooth brush would be greatly appreciated.  This is a wonderful opportunity for your child to select a gift for a child who is less fortunate.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Chris in the office (856-1672).

Palo Verde Kids Club

The Palo Verde Kids’ Club is an on-site child care program provided by Palo Alto Community Child Care (PACCC).  The program includes snacks, quiet homework time, craft activities, games, outdoor activities and special events. There is currently space available for all five days.  Part day schedules also available. Placement is given on a first come first served basis for both permanent and drop-in care. Hours are 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

For more information:  Raqiyyah Ikram, Director or Kari Taylor, Director, (650) 852-9475 or pvkc@paccc.com

Save The Date!

Palo Verde’s Annual Ice Skating Party
Wednesday, January 6, 2010, 5:30-7:30 PM, Winter Lodge Ice Rink

Sign Up Forms Will be sent home early December.  Volunteers needed to work the the front ticket desk,
pizza, and bake sale tables!
To volunteer, please call Lori Harrenstien, 856-3237 or iceturtles (at) gmail dot com

PAUSD Announcements:

Parent-Ed: Children’s Friendships: How Parents Can Help

Wednesday, December 2, 7 PM, Multipurpose Room, Hoover Elementary

A discussion with noted local expert, Dr. Louise Singleton.  This PTA Parent Ed program is free and open to all parents of PAUSD children in Young Fives or K-5th grade.  Dr. Singleton will discuss why friendships are important for elementary school children, how friendships change as children get older, and some ways to help children communicate and get along better with their peers.  Topics include shyness, bullying, assertiveness, and strategies to teach positive social skills.  They’ll discuss ways parents can help improve children’s peer relationships.  Questions and discussion are encouraged.

Building Blocks to Student Success
Tuesday, December 8,  6-8 PM, Boys and Girls Club, 2031 Pulgas Ave, East Palo Alto
The Parent Network for Students of Color and Hispanic Community (PNSCHC) with PTA Council and PAUSD invite you to join other Palo Alto Unified School District parents prepared to share what is or isn’t working for your child. Use this informal session to learn great strategies for raising highly successful children.  Childcare and light dinner will be provided.  You are welcome to bring a dish to share if you like.
Venga a reunirse con otros padres del Districto Escolar de Palo Alto (PAUSD) quienes participaran en lo que esta o no esta trabajando para sus niños.  Use esta sesión informal para a prender buenas estategias para cultivar niños exitosos.  Tendremos Guarderia.  Se serbira una cena ligera, pueden traed algo de comer si desean.
Info: Hilda Espinoza, 813-9556 (Español), Kim Bomar, 323-7845 (English), http://www.bigtent.com/groups/parentnet

Community Announcements:

French Afterschool Classes at Barron Park School

Come and play, read and write in French.  Second quarter starts Monday, November 30 – there is still time to register.

Non French Speakers:  K – 2nd Grade:  Tuesdays, 3:20 – 4:40 PM, 3rd – 5th Grade:  Thursdays, 3:30 – 4:40 PM, $20/hour; tuition is asked every quater.

Info:  efba.us or Judith Rapoport, judith.rapoport (at) gmail dot com

Sunday,  December 6, 2-4 PM, Palo Alto Art Center, 1313 Newell Road

An afternoon of free art activities for families with children ages 5 and up.  Make gifts, ornaments, cards, and more!  Activities will be led by artists and volunteers from the community and will be accompanied by live Mariachi music!  This free program is made possible by the Palo Alto Art Center Foundation, www.paacf.org

Stanford Email Newsletter, Stanford For You

As a service to the community, Stanford recently launched a free monthly email newsletter, Stanford For You, about upcoming events on campus,  including information about concerts, sports, lectures, parenting and health resources, art exhibits and more.  All of these events are open to the public, and many of them are free.  To subscribe: http://4you.stanford.edu.  You can see the November newsletter at http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs061/1102638954456/archive/1102794696379.html.

Calendar:

November 25 – 27:  No School
December 2:  Restaurant Night at Armadillo Willy’s

Palo Verde and PTA Announcements:

Save The Date: Annual Ice Skating Party

Mark Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2010 on your calendars for our Palo Verde Winter Lodge Skating Party! Strap on those skates and glide into the new year skating under the stars and holiday lights at Winter Lodge from 5:30-7:30pm. More details and sign-ups will be available after the Thanksgiving Break. 

The Family Giving Tree

Once again, Palo Verde is a proud host of The Family Giving Tree.  Please visit the office and select a gift tag.  All gifts must be returned to Palo Verde by Friday, December 11, 2009.  Please do not wrap your gift, just bring it in a bag with the tag securely attached to the bag or the gift.  Also, a new tooth brush would be greatly appreciated.  This is a wonderful opportunity for your child to select a gift for a child who is less fortunate. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Chris in the office (856-1672). Thank you for your continued support.

Palo Verde Kids’ Club Has Openings

The Palo Verde Kids’ Club is an on-site child care program provided by Palo Alto Community Child Care (PACCC). The program includes snacks, quiet homework time, craft activities, games, outdoor activities and special events. There is currently space available for all five days.  Part day schedules also available. Placement is given on a first come first served basis for both permanent and drop-in care. Hours are 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

For more information contact:
Raqiyyah Ikram, Director
Kari Taylor, Director
3450 Louis Road
(650) 852-9475
pvkc (at) paccc dot com

News from the Library – New Library Website

Did you know there is a new Palo Verde Library website?  It’s linked through the Palo Verde site (go to http://www.palo-verde.pausd.org/ then  click on ” Our Staff” and scroll down until you see my name – Laura Losier) but you can also get there directly at http://staff.pausd.org/~llosier/Palo_Verde/Welcome.html Here you will find useful links to the Palo Alto Public Library, Kidalog (Book Recommendations), Palo Verde Book Blog, the online catalog and district databases, booklists, and more.  I hope you and you child will find it very useful.

Library Volunteers Needed

The library is looking for more volunteers.  Please contact our school librarian, Laura Losier, if you are interested would like to help:

Mondays:   9-10 AM to help with book check-in and shelving
Thursdays:   10:30-11 AM Room 1 kinders need an adult to come assist with checkout
TBA:  Book Repair Person

Gently Used Children’s Magazines Requested

Do you have children’s magazines at home that you no longer want but are still in excellent condition? The library is interested in copies of the following magazines: Sports Illustrated for Kids, American Girl, Boys’ Life, Dog Fancy, Nickelodeon, National Geographic Kids, Young Rider, Kids Discover, Muse, Ask, Dig, or Zoobooks.  I know the students at Palo Verde would enjoy reading these.

Thank You,
Laura Losier, Palo Verde Librarian

PAUSD Announcements:

Everyday Math: Building Basic Facts Fluency (Grades K-5)
Monday, November 23, 7-9 PM, Palo Verde School, 3450 Louis Road, Palo Alto
A Parent Information Night on Everyday Math.  Spanish interpreting will be available.
Questions?  Linda, 329-3709

For the Community Kiosk click here.

City of Palo Alto Announcements:

Palo Alto Art Center’s Children’s Fine Arts Program Late Fall Classes
The Palo Alto Art Center’s Children’s Fine Arts Program has a few late fall classes starting soon.  In “Secret Saturdays Workshop”, kids 7-12 years old will make the gifts, decorations and cards kids need for holiday fun–a Palo Alto holiday tradition.  Classes start Saturday 11/21 at the Art Center.  For preschoolers, “Active Arts for Parents and Tots” provides excellent preschool art experiences for little ones aged 18 months to 5 years. Classes start Wednesday 11/18 at Mitchell Park Center.  Info and to register: see the Enjoy! Catalog found at any City of Palo Alto facility or by calling the Palo Alto Art Center, 329-2366 and online: http://enjoyonline.cityofpaloalto.org

Community Announcements:

Willy Wonka at Cañada College
November 13-22, Fridays at 7:30 PM, Saturdays at 2 PM & 7:30 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, Cañada College Mainstage Theater 4200 Farm Hill Road, Redwood City
The Bay Area Educational Theater Company presents the Bay Area premier of Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka.  Join the fantastic fun as Willy Wonka, The Candy Man, and the Oompa Loompas lead Charlie and his friends on a delicious, candy-filled adventure.  Based on the Roald Dahl book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.  Special flying effects by ZFX.
Info and to order tickets, www.bayareaetc.org or call 802-8423
Flyer: palylink.paloaltopta.org/enews/willywonka.pdf

Parents Place Winter Workshops
200 Channing Ave., Palo Alto
Parents Place is offering workshops of interest to elementary and middle school parents in their Winter 2010 Quarter. Winter Quarter 2010 workshops include: Empowering Your Daughter to Look Confidently at Herself, Her World, Her Future (for mothers of girls in middle school), $90 for 3/sessions, Bridging the Digital Divide: A Cyberspace Workshop for Parents and Teens (ages 11 up), $35/person, $50/family of 2 or more, For Dads Only – The Joys and Challenges of Fatherhood (all ages), $35, and Setting Limits- Raising Responsible Children Through Choices and Consequences (grades 2 – 8) , $35
Info / Registration: www.ParentsPlaceOnline.org.

Stanford Email Newsletter, Stanford For You
As a service to the community, Stanford recently launched a free monthly email newsletter, Stanford For You, about upcoming events on campus,  including information about concerts, sports, lectures, parenting and health resources, art exhibits and more.  All of these events are open to the public, and many of them are free.  To subscribe: http://4you.stanford.edu.  You can see the November newsletter at http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs061/1102638954456/archive/1102794696379.html.

Stanford Study Seeks Mothers and Daughters
Stanford Psychology Department’s Mood and Anxiety Disorders Laboratory is currently conducting a study of mothers who have suffered from depression in the past and their 9-15 year old daughters to better understand how they think and process information.  The long term goal of the study is to better improve treatments for emotional disorders.  The study involves visiting Stanford University a few times to participate in interviews, game-like computer tasks and fill out questionnaires.  Most girls also have a brain scan and take home a picture of their brain as a souvenir.  $40/hour for 3-10 hours over up to three visits.
Info: Jessica Gallagher, 736-2318, jgallagh (at) stanford dot edu, mood.stanford.edu

Dear Palo Verde Family and Friends,

Once again, Palo Verde is a proud host of The Family Giving Tree.  Please visit the office and select a gift tag.  All gifts must be returned to Palo Verde by Friday, December 11, 2009.  Please do not wrap your gift, just bring it in a bag with the tag securely attached to the bag or the gift.  Also, a new tooth brush would be greatly appreciated.  This is a wonderful opportunity for your child to select a gift for a child who is less fortunate.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Chris in the office (856-1672). Thank you for your continued support.

Wednesday Book Fair Events!

• 8 AM – 12 PM:  Book Fair Open
• 8:15 AM – 9:15 AM:  PTA Coffee and Parent’s Book Talk with the Kepler’s Staff (book club books, new titles for adults, etc.)
• 1 PM – 4 PM:  Book Fair Open
• 5 PM – 8 PM:  Book Fair Open
  • 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM:  5th Grade Fundraising Dinner
  • 6 PM:  Mr. Garcia’s Story Hour
  • 7 PM:  Miss Laura’s Story Hour

Wednesday Night Dinner!

What:  Pizza Dinner — Pizza,salad,drink and dessert for $7.00 or Individual slices for $2.00

When:  Wednesday, November 18,  5:30-7:30 PM

Where: Palo Verde MP Room

Why:  5TH Grade Fundraiser!

Calendar:

November 17 – 20: Annual Book Fair with Kepler’s

November 18:  PTA Coffee and Kepler’s Book Talk, 8:15 – 9:15 AM

November 18:  Site Council Meeting, 3:30 PM

November 25 – 27:  No School

December 2:  Restaurant Night at Armadillo Willy’s

Palo Verde and PTA Announcements:

PiE NEWS:  THE CHALLENGE GRANT IS HERE!

Your PiE donation will be DOUBLED between Nov. 2nd and Nov. 20th, through a generous $250,000 matching grant provided by the PiE Board and Advisory Council.

Take advantage of this opportunity to stretch your dollars and retain critical school programs and staff funded by PiE!  Suggested donation is $650 per child, although we welcome any contribution that is meaningful for your family.  All schools will sponsor “Donation Days” events during the last week of the Challenge Grant, Nov. 16th-Nov. 20th.  Meet your PiE representatives, ask your burning PiE questions, and make your tax-deductible donation count…twice!  Online donations welcome: http://www.papie.org/donPers.shtml

5 Reasons to Visit the Book Fair:

1. Teachers will have wish lists for books so you can purchase one as a gift for your child’s classroom
2. A Kepler’s staff person will always be available to answer questions and help you find a great book
3. The money raised from the book fair will be used for our Palo Verde library
4. It’s a great place to get gifts!
5. It’s fun!

What is the Book Fair?

This is a fabulous event when Kepler’s sets up a store just for us in the Palo Verde multi-purpose room, bringing tons of books just right for our elementary students and some for their siblings and parents as well.

How do I pay for things?

We take cash, checks, and credit cards

More questions?

Email Gail Foelsch at foelschg (at) hotmail dot com or Alison Cormack at acormack (at) sbcglobal dot net

To sign up to help click here.

Book Fair Events:

Tuesday, November 17

• 8 AM – 12 PM:  Book Fair Open!
• 1 PM – 4 PM:  Book Fair Open!
• All classes will come to the Book Fair during the day to hear the Kepler’s Staff talk about age appropriate books for each grade level.  Parents are welcome too!

Wednesday, November 18

• 8 AM – 12 PM:  Book Fair Open
• 8:15 AM – 9:15 AM:  PTA Coffee and Parent’s Book Talk with the Kepler’s Staff (book club books, new titles for adults, etc.)
• 1 PM – 4 PM:  Book Fair Open
• 5 PM – 8 PM:  Book Fair Open
  • 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM:  5^th Grade Fundraising Dinner
  • 6 PM:  Mr. Garcia’s Story Hour
  • 7 PM:  Miss Laura’s Story Hour

Thursday, November 19

• 8 AM – 10 AM:  Book Fair Open
• 2 PM – 4 PM:  Book Fair Open

Friday, November 20

• 8 AM – 10 AM:  Book Fair Open
• 10 AM – 1 PM:  Pack up books

Wednesday Night Dinner at Palo Verde!

Where: Palo Verde, MP Room

What: Pizza Dinner — Pizza,salad,drink and dessert for $7.00 or Individual slices for $2.00

Why: 5TH Grade Fundraiser!

When: Wednesday, November 18,  5:30-7:30 PM

Who: Anyone and everyone!

News from the Library

New Library Website

Did you know there is a new Palo Verde Library website?  It’s linked through the Palo Verde site (go to http://www.palo-verde.pausd.org/ then  click on ” Our Staff” and scroll down until you see my name – Laura Losier) but you can also get there directly at http://staff.pausd.org/~llosier/Palo_Verde/Welcome.html Here you will find useful links to the Palo Alto Public Library, Kidalog (Book Recommendations), Palo Verde Book Blog, the online catalog and district databases, booklists, and more.  I hope you and you child will find it very useful.

Thanks Kepler’s!

On October 29, 2009 Kepler’s Books treated the 2nd – 5th grades to a visit from Marissa Moss (author), Carl Angel (illustrator), and Maggie Gee.  (Pat Hanley made a surprise visit too!)  Our guests were promoting their new book called Sky High: The True Story of Maggie Gee. This inspiring story is about Maggie Gee, one of two Chinese American women to fly as part of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) during the height of WWII.  This year President Obama presented her with the Congressional Medal of Honor for her service.

Award-winning author Marissa Moss has published over 50 books including the famous Amelia’s Notebooks series (www.marissamoss.com).   Carl Angel’s website is also very interesting (www.carlqangel.com).  I enjoyed looking at his beautiful sketchbook to see the various stages of his artwork.  You might also like to watch one of Maggie’s interviews on YouTube.  (Go to the Library website and then look under Blog.)

Marissa, Maggie, and Carl all worked hard to achieve their dreams.  They never gave up, despite the many obstacles and rejections they faced. (It took Marissa ten years to convince a publisher that this book was worth publishing!)

Volunteers Needed

The library is looking for more volunteers.  Please contact me if you are interested.

Mondays:   9-10 AM to help with book check-in and shelving

Thursdays:   10:30-11 AM Room 1 kinders need an adult to come assist with checkout

TBA:  Book Repair Person

Gently Used Children’s Magazines Requested

Do you have children’s magazines at home that you no longer want but are still in excellent condition?  The library is interested in copies of the following magazines: Sports Illustrated for Kids, American Girl, Boys’ Life, Dog Fancy, Nickelodeon, National Geographic Kids, Young Rider, Kids Discover, Muse, Ask, Dig, or Zoobooks.    I know the students at Palo Verde would enjoy reading these.

I hope to see you at the Book Fair.

Laura Losier, Palo Verde Librarian

PAUSD Announcements:

PiE NEWS: CHALLENGE GRANT- WEEK 2!

Remember that all PiE donations made between Nov. 2nd and Nov. 20th are DOUBLED through our generous $250,000 matching grant provided by the PiE Board and Advisory Council.  Don’t wait another day–donate today to retain our valuable PiE programs next year!  http://www.papie.org/donPers.shtml

Everyday Math: Building Basic Facts Fluency (Grades K-5)

Monday, November 23, 7-9 PM, Palo Verde School, 3450 Louis Road, Palo Alto

A Parent Information Night on Everyday Math.  Spanish interpreting will be available.

Questions?  Linda, 329-3709

For the Community Kiosk click here.

City of Palo Alto Announcements

Palo Alto Library Commission Openings

Applications due Friday, November 20

The Palo Alto Library Commission is looking for three volunteers to serve in unexpired terms.  The Commission meets once a month and is responsible for advising the City Council on a variety of matters including reviewing budgets, receiving community input, commenting on fund raising efforts, and more.  If you wish to apply to serve on this committee contact the City of Palo Alto City Clerks Office at 329-2267 or Ronna.Gonsalves (at) cityofpaloalto dot org.  More information can be found at www.cityofpaloalto.org.

Community Announcements:

PACO Sinfonia Concert

Sunday, November 15, 3 PM,  Cubberley Theater, 4000 Middlefield, Palo Alto

Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra’s Sinfonia will perform their first concert of the 2009-2010 season ounder the direction of PACO music director Benjamin Simon. This challenging program includes movements of four primary pieces and a variety of masterpieces of the chamber music repertoire performed by small ensembles comprised of Sinfonia members.  $10 for general admission and $5 for seniors and students.

Info: http://www.pacomusic.org, 856-3848.

Willy Wonka at Cañada College

November 13-22, Fridays at 7:30 PM, Saturdays at 2 PM & 7:30 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, Cañada College Mainstage Theater 4200 Farm Hill Road, Redwood City

The Bay Area Educational Theater Company presents the Bay Area premier of Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka.  Join the fantastic fun as Willy Wonka, The Candy Man, and the Oompa Loompas lead Charlie and his friends on a delicious, candy-filled adventure.  Based on the Roald Dahl book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.  Special flying effects by ZFX

Info and to order tickets, www.bayareaetc.org or call 802-8423

Flyer: palylink.paloaltopta.org/enews/willywonka.pdf

Menlo Park Library and Kepler’s Books Present Barbara Kingsolver

Wednesday, November 18, 7 PM, Menlo-Atherton Performing Arts Center, 555 Middlefield Rd., Atherton.

In The Lacuna, her first novel in nine years, Barbara Kingsolver, the bestselling author of The Poisonwood Bible and Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life, takes us on an epic journey from the Mexico City of artists Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo to the America of Pearl Harbor, FDR, and J. Edgar Hoover. The Lacuna is a poignant story of a man pulled between two nations as they invent their modern identities.

Parents Place Winter Workshops

200 Channing Ave., Palo Alto

Parents Place is offering workshops of interest to elementary and middle school parents in their Winter 2010 Quarter. Winter Quarter 2010 workshops include: Empowering Your Daughter to Look Confidently at Herself, Her World, Her Future (for mothers of girls in middle school), $90 for 3/sessions, Bridging the Digital Divide: A Cyberspace Workshop for Parents and Teens (ages 11 up), $35/person, $50/family of 2 or more, For Dads Only – The Joys and Challenges of Fatherhood (all ages), $35, and Setting Limits- Raising Responsible Children Through Choices and Consequences (grades 2 – 8) , $35

Info / Registration: www.ParentsPlaceOnline.org.

Stanford Email Newsletter, Stanford For You

As a service to the community, Stanford recently launched a free monthly email newsletter, Stanford For You, about upcoming events on campus,  including information about concerts, sports, lectures, parenting and health resources, art exhibits and more.  All of these events are open to the public, and many of them are free.  To subscribe: http://4you.stanford.edu.  You can see the November newsletter at http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs061/1102638954456/archive/1102794696379.html.

Stanford Study Seeks Mothers and Daughters

Stanford Psychology Department’s Mood and Anxiety Disorders Laboratory is currently conducting a study of mothers who have suffered from depression in the past and their 9-15 year old daughters to better understand how they think and process information.  The long term goal of the study is to better improve treatments for emotional disorders.  The study involves visiting Stanford University a few times to participate in interviews, game-like computer tasks and fill out questionnaires.  Most girls also have a brain scan and take home a picture of their brain as a souvenir.  $40/hour for 3-10 hours over up to three visits.

Info: Jessica Gallagher, 736-2318, jgallagh (at) stanford dot edu, mood.stanford.edu