June 5, 2009

 

From Joe’s Desk

 

Upcoming

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday, June 9

School Council

7:45 AM – Library

 

Tuesday, June 9

Spring Instrumental Concert

7:45 PM, Music Room

 

Friday, June 12

D.A.D Bye Bye Birdie

7:00 PM, Day Auditorium

 

Tuesday, June 23

Last Day of School

Noon Dismissal

 

 

Final Edition:

June 19, 2009

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

From Joe’s Desk (Continued)

 

 

 

Dear Families,

 

Horace Mann School Council Election- Congratulations to our newly elected parent representatives to School Council - Robert Daley, Millicent Lawton, and Julie Minkin.  They received the highest percentage of votes.  They will work with our current School Council representative Chunhua Liu.  I am very thankful to our retiring parent members of the School Council – Chris Banks, Margaret Albright and Brian Zabin, along with teachers Emily Bard and Jenny McGowan, who are ending their terms as well.  They have worked well on behalf of the students at Horace Mann revising and editing the school improvement plan, organized a grant writing committee to support teacher initiatives, and advocated for the school publicly and privately.  It has been a pleasure working with them.

 

PTO Board – I am happy to announce that Heather McCarthy and Karen Solari have agreed to step into the role of PTO Co-Presidents.  I have spoken with other parents who have expressed interest in other PTO Board roles and will publish them in the next edition of Newsnotes.  I am so thankful to outgoing Co-Presidents Marcia Tabenken and Brian Zabin, Vice President Lisa DiFelice, and Treasurer Jeff Kolodney for their outstanding service.  With your financial assistance through fundraisers like the school auction, the PTO has successfully supported the technology drive so each classroom now has a new iMac computer for student use, purchased a new sound system for the music department, gym mats and equipment, extensive art materials, additional library materials, and provided the entire teaching staff with annual reimbursements for classroom expenses.  We can thank them, and all of you, enough.

 

As you read this, please know that none of this would be possible without our trusted Newsnotes staff, Michelle Curran leading the way with Gina Mulvaney, Susanti Sugianto, Millicent Lawton and Barbara Huggins as impeccable editors.  You provide an important service for the entire community.

 

Throughout the year, so many of you help out in so many ways, this is my opportunity to say THANK YOU for all you do to support the school by working on the Book Fair, Creative Arts, Fitness for Life, Back to School BBQ, Science Night, Family Road Race, Pretzel Sale, grant writing, field trip chaperones, Scout programs, library circulation, and any others I may have missed for all you do to help our school thrive and prosper.  You don’t know how indebted we are for all you do.

 

Horace Mann Staffing – Next year, Horace Mann will continue to have 17 classrooms.  I am in the process of interviewing kindergarten candidates for that opening.  In first grade, Melissa Chatfield will be returning from a leave and Karen Sandison will move from grade 2 to grade 1.  All other teachers are scheduled to return to their current assignment.  I am pleased to announce that Nicole Quinn will join our staff as our inclusion facilitator in the fall, replacing Jenny McGowan who will be out on maternity leave.  Ms. Quinn holds a Masters Degree in Special Education from American International College.  She worked at the Peirce School prior to coming to Horace Mann.  Once Ms. McGowan returns to Horace Mann, Ms. Quinn will remain as a half-time inclusion facilitator.  In terms of the principalship, the system will name an interim for the upcoming year.  Sometime in the fall/winter, a principal search will commence where your input will be sought.  You will hear more about that next year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

From the PTO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your PTO Dollars at Work

 

The Creative Arts and Sciences Program continues to augment and enhance the Horace Mann learning environment, with a variety of presentations for all grades.  Recently, the kindergarten classes had a visit from folks at the Discovery Museum who presented on the physical properties of bubbles.  The third graders hosted Eric Olsen's who presented on the forest canopy.  The fourth and fifth grades enjoyed the Art Quest, a program that used art to teach about regions of our country (fourth grade) and Colonial America (fifth grade).

 

In addition, eight new desktop computers, paid for with PTO funds, recently arrived in the classrooms.

 

 

 

 

 

Teacher Appreciation Luncheon Thanks

 

Thank you to Kathy Baron, hostess, and Betsy Spensieri, coordinator of this year’s Teacher Appreciation Luncheon, as well as the many parents who donated food and supplies to show appreciation to our many dedicated and teachers and staff members who educate and nurture our children throughout the year at Horace Mann.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Horace Mann Newsnotes

Editors Needed

 

Do you want to be involved in your child’s school, but don’t have a lot of time?  Do you want to be the first to know what is going on in school?  Become a Newsnotes Editor!  The commitment for an editor is minimal – 4 times a year, about 12 hours a year.  Training will be provided.   Knowledge of Microsoft Word and computer with internet access required.  Contact Michelle Curran, currangang@hotmail.com, for more information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

From Day-After-Day

 

 

 

 

 

D.A.D Presents:

Bye Bye Birdie

Friday,  June 12

 

Day-After-Day 20th musical productions presents: Bye Bye Birdie on Friday June 12, 2009 at the Day Middle School Auditorium at 7:00pm.

Tickets on sale at the door

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 From Newton Public Schools

 

 

 

 

 

 

SPACE 2009

July 6 - 31

 

The Newton Public Schools 2009 SPACE Program is still accepting applications for its summer enrichment program.  SPACE runs from July 6, 2009 to July 31, 2009 for students entering kindergarten through 9th grade.  You may choose from a morning program (9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.), an all day program (9:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.) or an extended day program (8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.).  Please check the Newton Public School website www.newton.k12.ma.us or call 617-559-6150 for more details

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

From The Community

 

 

 

 

 

Zambia Donations

Thru June 7

 

Zambia Donations Needed through June 7th:  Can your child bear to part with the 3rd grade-issued recorder?  Any other musical instruments lying around?  School supplies, baby up through teen clothes, board games, frisbees, soccer balls and other sports equipment are all needed.  The First Unitarian Society is helping "Communities Without Borders", and will deliver these supplies to Zambia.  Pick ups can be arranged, or drop off at the First Unitarian Society in West Newton on Washington Street ( near the police station and Cinema).  Questions: Kim at 617-9647302.  For pick-up: judyryde@comcast.net.

 

 

 

 

 

Meet the Robots!

Sunday, June 7

1-4 PM

Hyde Community Center

 

Join the Newton High School LigerBots for an afternoon of science games and activities at the Hyde Community Center, 90 Lincoln Street Newton Highlands.  See science and technology in action.  Learn about the FIRST (for recognition of science and technology) organization's robotics programs from student from age 6 through High School.  Take a turn driving the LigerBots robot.  Build and program Lego Mindstorm Robots.  Get information about joining a team or starting a new team.  For more information, call Mindy Nitkin at 617-332-3808.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summer Ball    Sign Up

In Progress

 

The summer league  serves eligible boys and girls who were born on or between May 1, 1996 & April 30, 1999.  All new applicants must reside in Newton OR attend the Newton Public Schools.  The season begins in early July and runs through the middle of August.  Player evaluations take place Saturday June 20th from 10-12 at Jay Gordon Field.  (rain date Sunday June 21st, 3-5).  Applications and program information at: http://www.eteamz.com/newtoneastll/news/index.cfm?cat=267730.  All registrations must be done on-line at the web site. Registration deadline is Monday June 15th.  Coaching info is also available on-line.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Village Day in Newton Highlands

Sunday June 14

12-5 PM

 

34th Annual "Village Day" in Newton Highlands is a community event organized by the Newton Highlands Neighborhood Area Council and the Hyde Community Center.  This event draws thousands of people to Newton Highlands, and activities include a popular road race, a Silent Auction, live musical performances, and amusement rides.  Many merchants and vendors, including those with crafts, food, and other items participate in Village Day events. Booths are available for Village Day.  Please contact John Rice at 617-201-7088 or email director@hydecenter.org for a booth.

 

 

 

 

 

Murder Mystery Theatre Fundraiser for Turtle Lane

Friday June 26

8 PM

 

Turtle Lane Announces a One-Night-Only Murder Mystery Theater Fundraiser:  This special first-ever murder mystery theatre fundraiser is to be staged Friday June 26th at 8pm.  Fun and entertainment are guaranteed as the audience plays detective, interacting with the cast and picking up clues, trying to figure out "whodunit".  A great adult night out.  Tickets are $25 and include hors d'oeuvres.  Full cash bar as well.  All proceeds go to replace equipment and to make improvements to the theatre space.  Order tickets on line at www.turtlelane.org or by calling 617-244-0169.  Turtle Lane Playhouse, 283 Melrose Street, Auburndale.

 

 

 

 

 

Summer Arts in Action

New Art Center Grades 1-5

 

Our popular children’s vacation arts program provides students with the opportunity to try a variety of art mediums and develop new skills in a fun, safe, and supportive environment! Ten art-filled weeks available: June 29-Sept. 4, Mon.-Fri., 9-3:30 pm.  Register for one week, two weeks, or all 10! Call for more information 617-964-3424 or visit www.newartcenter.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

Newton 20/20 hosts ‘Expanded Learning Time’ Discussion with Chris Gabrieli

Wed July 22

7-9 PM

 

 Under the Massachusetts Expanded Learning Time (ELT) Initiative, participating schools are expanding school time to improve student outcomes in core academic subjects, broaden enrichment opportunities, and improve instruction by adding more planning and professional development time for teachers. The vision behind the ELT Initiative is to reshape the American school calendar to provide all students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for full engagement and participation in the economic and civic life of our 21st century global society.  Founded on the basic premise that the century-old school schedule is out of date, ELT seeks to free public schools from the shackles of a calendar designed to accommodate farm and factory schedules.  The event is open to the public.   More information at www.newton2020.org.  Check website later for meeting location.   

 

 

 

 

 

Classifieds

 

 

 

Middle School After School Program:  The Newton Highlands After-School Program, just for middle school children, is hosting Open Houses on Thursday, June 11th from 6-7:30 pm, Tuesday, July 7th from 4:30-6:00 pm, and Wednesday, August 19th from 7:00-8:30 pm at the Brigham House, 20 Hartford Street, Newton Highlands. For more information contact: Rochelle Acker at 617-999-4617 or highlandsafterschool@gmail.com or visit www.highlandsafterschool.org

 

JOANNE LANGIONE DANCE CENTER 35 Border St Newton Ma Fall Registration Open House June 10th 2:30-6:00.Come meet the Faculty, see our spacious studios, and take a Free Demo Class! Ballet, Jazz, and Hip Hop Classes: Ages 2-6 2:30 - 4:30 Ages 7and up 4:00-6:00.  Enjoy Refreshments, and a take home treat! www.jldancecenter.com 617-969-8724

 

Chalk Pond, New Hampshire vacation home for sale: Lovely A-frame with pond view, clean and extremely well maintained. Minutes from Sunapee Mountain ski resort, New London restaurants, and close to Kearsarge hiking. About 100 minutes from Newton. Comfortably sleeps six in three bedrooms, with plenty of room for other guests. Two bathrooms, one newly renovated, as well as many other recent updates and amenities, including new propane heating system, exterior steps and landscaping. Reluctant sellers moving south.   Please call Klaudia at 617 921 8974 for more information.

 

Pre-ensemble Program designed for elementary school students who like to learn to play in a group, get familiar with different styles, and improvise/compose.  All instrumentalists with one/more years.  Hourly classes directed by an experienced musician Tal Shalom Kobi.  Registration for next Fall is starting now. For more details please call 617-9654071 or go to www.talmusicworld.com

 

Y3K TUTOR IN YOUR HOME We tutor special ed. such as ADD, ADHD, Asperger’s, Autism, Emotional/Behavioral, and gifted.  We also tutor regular ed. and test preparation.  All subjects and ages.  25% off the first lesson.  781-492-8700 or Y3KTutorInYourHome.com

 

ENGLISH TUTOR for elementary age students and English Language Learners.  Licensed ESL teacher with Masters in Education from Boston University will provide hourly lessons guaranteed to improve English language skills and/or provide assistance with homework as needed.   Contact Alexis at atochka29@gmail.com or 1-617-480-3659.

 

LICE AUNTIES is Newton's very own new nitpicking business started by a Newton mom. Proven, non-toxic, process. In-home visits. Visit www.liceaunties.com for more information.

 

KIDS' KARATE --Free Trial Class Friday, September 18, 4:45-5:45, or Saturday, September 19, 10:00-11:00 a.m. Girls and boys, ages 1st thru 5th grades. $79/7 weeks at Trinity HS, Newton. For more information, please call (617) 527-8052 or see www.kids-karate.org

 

PIANO INSTRUCTION - Berklee & New England Conservatory graduate with 25+ years teaching experience. Beginners welcome. Build a high quality musical foundation with a patient, caring teacher. Gloria Jasinski, phone: 617.566.9704, email: piano566@comcast.net

 

ALL THAT JAZZ DANCE STUDIO is now accepting registration for the fall, as well as for our summer session: June 22nd-July 31st.   Also offering dance camp intensive weeks in July. Please call Deb Vogel at 617-641-0784, email her at missdeb@allthatjazznewton.com or check out our website: www.allthatjazznewton.com to find out more information and to register. 

 

SUMMER MATH PROGRAMS: Mathnasium Learning Center in Newton Highlands offers flexible math summer programs in a fun, relaxing environment. Schedule your 12 tutoring sessions ($495) around your vacations and camps.  (617) 340-3665 or www.mathsummer.com.

 

Experienced tutor available this SUMMER!  Elementary level:  Reading, Written expression, Math, Study Skills. I am available before and after camp. Please contact me for a free consultation: Haralie Alpert, M.Ed., MS. (617) 630-0608; Haralie@gmail.com.

 

ActiveMinds Tutoring, LLC:  In-home tutoring,all grades/all subjects, including test preparation (MCAS, SAT, SSAT...).  Sign your child up and receive 1 free lesson! Call: (617) 663-5700 during business hours, or (617) 227-2225 Eve/Wknds. www.activemindstutoring.com.

 

 

 

Newsnotes Information

 

 

Editors: Michelle Curran, Barbara Huggins, Millicent Lawton, Gina Mulvaney, and Susanti Sugianto.

 

Newsnotes is the main vehicle of communication at Horace Mann School.  Newsnotes is published by the PTO bi-weekly.  Please email items of interest to hmnewsnotes@lists.neighborhood.net.

 

Deadline for submissions is 11:00am on Tuesday the week you want the items to appear.  Classifieds from the Horace Mann community are free.  Classifieds from non-community members may be charged a nominal fee.

 

 

Horace Mann School 687 Watertown Street, Newton, MA 02460 www.newton.k12.ma.us/horacemann/

 

 

Main Office

(617) 559-9510

Call-Back Line

(617) 559-9530

Joe’s Email

Joseph_russo@newton.k12.ma.us

Newsnotes Submission Email

hmnewsnotes@lists.neighborhood.net

Announcement List

hm-parents-announce@lists.neighborhood.net

Discussion List

hm-parents@lists.neighborhood.net

 

 

 

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www.horacemannpto.org