Stevens Creek Superstars Newsletter

2012 California Distinguished School Superintendent: Phil Quon Board of Education: Anjali Kausar Ben Liao Josephine Lucey Gary McCue Phyllis Vogel

Cupertino Union School District Stevens Creek Elementary School * Vivian Franklin, Principal 10300 Ainsworth Drive, Cupertino, CA 95014 Apr. 26, 2012 Week 32 of 37 Website http://www.edline.net/pages/Stevens_Creek_Elem_School March 29, 2012 Week 29 of 37 August 25, 2011 EVERY TUESDAY IS EARLY DISMISSAL Students are dismissed at 2:30pm Week FOR CUSD LUNCHES at PAMS (Parent Account Management System) Lunchroom! You can make payments PRE-PAY 2 of 43
and view your students account balance online by going to http://www.pamslunchroom.com TO EMAIL STAFF: lastname_firstname@cusdk8.org ATTENDANCE: If your child will be absent, please call 245-3312. Ext. 6, by 11:00 a.m. to report the absence. HOMEWORK: Homework may be requested for illness absences after three days or more. Please call the office before 9:00 a.m. to request the homework for pickup after 3:00 p.m.

Calendar

Principals Message
Parent On- Line Survey is Ready for You To Complete Please take a few minutes to complete the annual Parent School Survey for each child in your family attending Stevens Creek School. Click on the url to begin https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CSF62GW The Parent Survey is open from April 26 through May 7. Your thoughts regarding school programs are very important to us. This survey is for parents only. Do not have your children complete the survey. Your valuable input will help our staff and the School Site Council plan for the next school year. Once you have completed the survey, send the last page to school with your child. Your child will receive a special token.

Apr. 27: Walkathon 9-3 (ALL KINDERS ATTEND THE AM SESSION) Apr. 30: PRACTICE STAR Testing for Grades 2-5 9-12:20

May 1-11: STAR Testing for Grades 2-5 9-12:20 May 3: SSC 7:45 am in Conference Rm May 4: Young Authors Faire Entries Due! See Page 6 for more information Progress Reports Distributed, if applicable May 10: PTO Mtg 7:30 pm Staff Lounge May 11: 1st grade field trip: Coyote Point 9-1:30 Kinder field trip: Tech Museum 9-12:30 Movie Night in GLC 6-8pm May 14-16: Variety Show Auditions in GLC at Lunch (See page 5) May 15: Assembly West Bay Opera May 17: SSC 7:45 am in Conference Rm Open House 6:00-7:00 pm Ice Cream Social 5:30-7:00 pm Band Spring Concert 6:45-8:15 Art Show 4:30-7:30 May 18: Spirit Day: Super Hero/Villain Day

School Site Council Opening

The School Site Council is made up of 8 people: 4 parents, 2 teachers, 1 classified employee and the principal. The School Site Council meets once a month in the morning from 7:45 8:45 a.m. The School Site Council provides a vehicle through which school personnel and parents work together to maintain the high quality of education we provide at Stevens Creek. They yearly update the school plan and goals, review results of the STAR test and facilitate/analyze the spring parent survey. The School Site Council represents the whole school community and focuses on school wide issues, not on personal agenda items. We are looking for two parent representatives to serve a two-year term. If you are

interested in serving on the School Site Council, please complete the information below and return to the office or email Mrs. Browne at browne_denise@cusdk8.org School Site Council Nominations 2012-13 Yes, I'm interest in running for a position on the SSC: Name___________________ Phone #_________________ Email:___________________ PTOs Continuous Support Provides Enrichment Programs As most of you are aware, our PTO helps fund personnel and supplies for programs that enrich our students academic life at school. PTO fully funds assemblies, our Tech Aide, two instructional aides, K 5 Art, and primary PE. It also provides funding for our Media Aide and primary music. Many of the teachers write about these experiences in the classroom websites or newsletters. I would like to highlight three of the programs and give you a little information of whats been happening in Art, Primary Music, and Primary PE. Art by Esther Truji-Milioto The goals of the art program at Stevens Creek are to teach every child how to express himself/herself through art, to develop art skills and to develop their creativity. This year, each grade level has worked on 6 art projects to date. Each lesson focuses on providing the students with specific art concepts and skills. Specifically, these lessons provide students with a knowledge of art history, exposure to different art mediums, art skills and techniques, and instruction in the elements and principles of art. The lessons are followed by a project each student completes, which gives them first hand practice in the lessons they have learned. An example of this would be a lesson on clipper ships completed by 5th grade. This is an art history lesson on the background of clipper ships, and their popularity as a subject of American artists in the 19th century. Their project was to draw and paint a clipper ship sailing in the ocean, using watercolor paints. The students were shown how to draw a clipper ship using simple shapes, and given instruction in watercolor painting techniques. A summary of each art lesson taught has been forwarded to the teachers on a monthly basis, so that they may include it in their newsletters if they wish. Primary Music by John Hess The last few years I have presented grade level assemblies funded by CEEF giving students the opportunity to get to know and love the greatest musical masterpieces of all time. The students have learned about the fascinating lives of Mozart, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky. This year, our composers are among the first and most popular, world-wide: J. S. Bach and G. F. Handel. Additionally this year, PTO is providing financial support for me to present musical hands-on experiences with all Kindergarten through 3rd grades. We have played music games, sung and used the instruments for hilarious and happy songs from around the world, (you should hear them sing, "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing"). I think the third graders are well prepared for their next two years with the remarkable Mrs. O'Flynn. Your children show enormous interest and aptitude. It is an honor to teach at Stevens Creek School. I have greatly enjoyed my expanded opportunity to be with the children and teachers of Stevens Creek Elementary School this year. Primary PE by Jean Marie Steiner The PTO makes a huge difference in what we can provide to the Primary P.E. program. Our program is about increasing the strength, flexibility, coordination and passion for sports to our children, thus,

providing a foundation for maintaining life-long health. We achieve this by introducing a wide variety of activities involving the use of cones, markers, pinnies, foam balls, bouncy balls, baseball, softball, basketball, bean bags, bowling, dance, hockey, football, gymnastics, hoops, juggling, jump ropes, lacrosse, mats, paddle games, parachutes, scooters, soccer, track and field, pedometers, tennis, tetherball, volleyball and a variety of other creative games. The goal is to provide enough equipment so all students can be engaged. For example, instead of playing one large soccer game, we have several soccer activities with each student using a ball. With enough equipment the ratio of activity to the time is exponential. The PTOs funding is critical in providing this foundation for our children and their future. A Healthy Family Two years ago my youngest son had to have an appendectomy due to a ruptured appendix. As you can imagine, it was a serious situation. Knowing that my son has a high tolerance of pain, I figured he landed in the hospital a day or two after he should have entered. While we rushed to his side to comfort and to advocate for him while in the hospital, theres one thing we didnt have to worry about. He had insurance. Upon hearing the news, a very close friend of his immediately purchased health insurance. Keeping our children safe is top priority in parenting. We hope that nothing happens, but we all know, we cant always avoid our children from being hurt, getting into some kind of accident or becoming ill. However, situations arise where families lose health insurance. There are many families who cannot afford health coverage due to economic or financial stress. Thousands of children remain uninsured in California today. Without health insurance, families delay or disregard getting medical help. This can impact the overall well being of a child and how he performs in school. To address this issue, the California Department of Health Services has established the Medi-Cal Administrative Activities program that encourages schools to inform parents about insurance through Medi-Cal. If your family or you know of a family that needs health insurance, please contact Healthy Families/Medi-Cal at 1-800880-5305. We also have a few applications in the office. Health insurance is vital for everyone.

School News

Variety Show Auditions May 14-16 Yes, its that time of year to share your talent with others. Do you have a special talent? Consider auditioning for the Variety Show. Each act must have a minimum of two students, preferably more. If you play an instrument, think about asking a friend to sing or dance along with your song. A permission slip with more information is on page 5. The permission slip is required to audition. Additional forms are available in the office.

Student Council Coins for Cute Critters Drive

Student Council has chosen to sponsor a coin drive to help the World Wildlife Fund. WWF has been in operation for 50 years. Their vision is to build a future in which people live in harmony with nature. They are advocates on 5 key issues: protecting species, conserving places, transforming business, tackling climate change and working with communities. If you would like to help support this wonderful organization, bring your spare change to your classroom from April 23rd - May 18th. Student Council will provide Coin Collection Containers to each classroom. Thank you in advance for your help!

Middle School News Mark your calendars for May 18th, 4-7 p.m., and plan to bring the entire family to an afternoon of games, entertainment, and international cuisine at Kennedys Spring Fest. In cooperation with PTA and Student Council, we are planning a fun-filled afternoon for our local community. We would love for our incoming 5th grade families to join us in the festivities. Please visit the Kennedy PTA website for information and to purchase tickets. http://sites.google.com/site/jfkmspta/

Variety Show 2012

Taking a Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride

The Stevens Creek Talent Show will be held on Friday, June 8th. You just team up with a friend or two or many. to share your talents with the entire school! Auditions will be held for each grade level. Come at lunchtime, prepared with an appropriate act, no more than 90 seconds long. Also, bring all necessary props (costume, tape, DVD, etc.). IN ORDER TO AUDITION, EACH MEMBER OF YOUR ACT MUST BRING A signed COPY OF THIS FORM ON THE DAY OF YOUR AUDITION!!!! Forms will not be accepted early, no exceptions! Kindergarteners: Please see your teacher about audition time. 1st/2nd graders: Monday, May 14th in GLC at lunch 3rd/4th graders: Tuesday, May 15th in GLC at lunch 5th graders: Wednesday, May 16th in GLC at lunch If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Moore, Ms. Allen, Mrs. Gogue or Mrs. Tsukamoto. .................................................................................................................................... Name of student_______________________________________ Names of other students performing _________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ (Each student participating must turn in one of these forms) Have you performed in the Variety Show before? Yes No Type of Performance: ___________________________________ Name of song (if using music)_____________________________ Type of equipment needed ________________________________ (gym mats, table, tape recorder, CD player, piano, music stand) I give my child, _____________________________, permission to perform in the Stevens Creek Variety show, upon acceptance of act. (Parents will be informed if their student has made it into the Talent Show) Parent Signature ___________________________________ Date___________

Young Authors Faire May 2012

Entry Requirements Cover with name and title Title page Dedication page Handwritten or typed story Include colorful illustration(s) About the author page Back Cover Books need to be bound, which can be done either at home or at school What: ! Santa Clara County Reading Councils ! annual Young Authors Faire When: " Saturday May 19, 2012 Where: Bernal Intermediate School " 6610 San Ignacio Avenue, San Jose Time: " 9am - 1pm Other: " Entries must be submitted to Mrs. Kemp or Mrs. Weber by May 4th. Questions?: weber_jana@cusdk8.org kemp_alison@cusdk8.org

Acceptable book categories Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Cookbooks Alphabet books

PTO NEWS..

Tomorrow is Walkathon!! Here are some key reminders: Return the pledge envelopes!!

Please remember to return the Walkathon pledge envelopes with your child for tomorrows walkathon. After the Walkathon they will be returned to your child so he or she can collect the money for the pledges. PLEASE REMEMBER TO SIGN THE RELEASE ON THE ENVELOPE SO THAT YOUR CHILD HAS PERMISSION TO WALK. Please contact Smita Uniyal (ashusmita@gmail.com) if you have any questions.

VOLUNTEERS!

A big THANK YOU to our parent community!! We now have enough volunteers for Walkathon day! Please arrive on time for your designated time and check in at the volunteer table. If you have not received a confirmation of your time slot, please contact Cherri Huang at cjcherri@gmail.com.

What else can I do to support the Walkathon?

Come out and cheer!! Most kids love to have their parents cheer them on while they walk. Or better yet, strap on your walking (or running shoes) and do a few laps with your child!! Make sure your child comes to school with the right clothes- sneakers and comfortable socks are a MUST. A hat and sunscreen are also important, as it is predicted to be sunny. Sunglasses are also a good ideawith all those orange shirts, it is bound to be bright! Your child will get their walkathon t-shirt from their teacher.

Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week is coming May 1418!

Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week is coming May 14 through May 18. Now is our chance to let the Stevens Creek Staff know how much we appreciate all they do! Each grade level will be in charge of hosting a different food event during week. Look for a flyer next week in your Thursday folder for more information and to sign up to help. Please contact Judi Kledzik at judi@me.com, if you have questions.

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Nominations for Next Years PTO Board!

We have openings next year for several PTO Board positions!! If you are interested in serving on the PTO Board and helping to make the organization run smoothly, please contact Cris Vaughan (cavaughan28@gmail.com) or Stephanie Fulmer-Smentek (sfulsmen@comcast.net) to express your interest and to learn more about the available positions.

Last call for Special Programs Grant Deadline April 26th!

This year, PTO has budgeted $10,000 to fund a Special Programs Grant that can be applied for by the parent and staff community. This new grant program is intended to fund purchases that improve PTO or Stevens Creek Elementary infrastructure, improve the school campus, enrich the curriculum, or support the PTO mission. The deadline for this year has been extended to April 26th (TODAY). All funds requested in the grant must be spent before the end of the school year. If you have an idea for a one-time purchase that would fit with the guidelines of the Special Programs Grant, submit your proposal today to our VP of Grants (Luanne Schirrmeister, lschirrm@gmail.com). For more information and detailed grant guidelines, visit the PTO web-site (http://www.stevenscreekpto.org).

Only 3 more weeks to send in those BoxTops

Box Top contest will end on May 18th. Keep sending those box tops in until then.

Current leaders-Lower Grades: Room 10 (1st place); Room 17 (2nd place); Room 13 (3rd place) Upper Grades: Room 30 & Room 24 (tied for 1st place); Room 27 (3rd place) Send Box Tops into your childs teacher, each 25 Box Tops = 1 goal! The class with the most goals in each of K-3 and 4-5 will win a Pizza Lunch. Contact Jane Kim (Janehskim@gmail.com) for more information.

Next PTO meeting: May 10th

Our last regularly scheduled PTO meeting of the year will be on Thursday May 10th, at 7:30 in the staff lounge. Our tentative agenda includes membership votes on the preliminary budget for next year and on next years board. Hope to see you there!

DISTRICT NEWS SECTION Vol. 28 2011-2012 Elementary School

DOES YOUR CHILD NEED INSURANCE COVERAGE? Illness and accidents are a part of everyday life. California has a free or low-cost health insurance program available for children. Whether your child gets sick or hurt, needs regular check-ups, immunizations, dental care or a physical to participate in school or community sports, call toll free 1-888-747-1222 or visit www.healthyfamilies.ca.gov. 2012 STAR TESTING DATES STAR Multiple Choice Test begins the week of April 30, 2012 and will continue for two weeks. The STAR Program is a State of California accountability measure that helps us assess how we are meeting the needs of our students. You can help prepare your child for the test by ensuring your child goes to bed on time, eats a good breakfast, and leaves for school with a positive attitude. Please do not schedule any family trips or doctor appointments during this time. CUPERTINO CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL Saturday and Sunday, April 28, 2012 and April 29, 2012 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Memorial Park in Cupertino Free Admission The 29th Annual Cupertino Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates community, culture and supports Cupertinos Sister City relationship with Toyokawa, Japan. This years festival features delicious Japanese and American food, outdoor entertainment by taiko drums groups, classical Japanese dancers, martial art schools and musical groups, and more. There are indoor Japanese cultural displays, workshops, and musical performances at the Quinlan Center, adjacent to Memorial Park. This year also features a special childrens play area with hands-on activities. Parking is available at DeAnza College for free. For information visit www.cupertinotoyokawa.org. This event helps to support the Cupertino-Toyokawa Sister City Exchange Program. DE ANZA COLLEGE SUMMER EXTENDED YEAR PROGRAM 2012 De Anza College in partnership with the Cupertino Union School District will offer the Extended Year Program this summer, mornings only, from June 18 to July 13, 2012. Students entering grades 6 through 10 Classes will be held at Cupertino and Miller Middle Schools, and will include: Java Programming, Geometry & Spatial Sense, Intro to Algebra 1 & 2, LEGO Robotics, Debate and Critical Thinking, Forensic Science, and many others. Students entering grades 1 through 5 Classes will be held at Collins Elementary School, and will include: Writing: Paragraphs to Essays, Reading Intensive, Public Speaking, Spelling Bee, Journalism/Writing, and more! Program brochures will be sent home in early March and will also be available at your school office. More information is available at www.extendedyear.deanza.edu. Early registration is by mail only and will begin on March 5, 2012 and ends on May 18, 2012. There will also be walk-in registration available from May 29 to June 5, 2012.