In this annual community gathering, Percy will give an informative presentation about activities and programs at the school this year. We encourage all parents to attend and learn about what's happening at Gateway.  If you have any questions, feel free to email Percy at

[this is a re-run of last week's letter, with a few clarifications]

Dear Parents, 

At the end of February each year, our faculty return employment contracts for the following school year.  While some are continuing their work with Gateway's students, parents, and faculty, others have decided to explore different opportunities in their lives.  This year, I regret to announce that three teachers will not return to the school next year in order to pursue a life beyond Gateway.  I actually did not realize that one could exist.

Music - As many of you may have noticed our beloved music teacher, Kristin, is pregnant with her first child.  Kristin has decided to take next year off for maternity leave to spend precious time with her new baby.  Kristin is very excited to return to Gateway School in the 2012 - 2013 school year.  Ty and Kristin are very thrilled about this new chapter in their lives and we wish them the very best.  Kristin is due in July, and will remain at the school through graduation.  Fortunately, Kristin lives close by, so we hope to see her and the new baby around next year.

Physical Education - Rajiv Martel has informed me that this will be his last year at Gateway School.  After twelve years of service to the students and the community, Rajiv has decided to explore other job opportunities.  Rajiv is an avid cyclist, hiker, and outdoorsman (and an accomplished wood worker) and will most likely put these formidable skills to work in his next endeavor.  Rajiv played a large role in augmenting the school's athletic programs, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

6^th Grade Core - After twenty-four years teaching, advising, mentoring, and serving in various administrative capacities at Gateway School, Lydia Parker is "retiring"as permanent teacher.  She has offered - and we quickly and gladly accepted - to serve as a primary substitute for the school; Lydia will be among the first teachers called in the event of a teacher absence.  Lydia has taught in most of the grades during her time here and we are grateful and relieved to have an educator with her expertise and experience working with our students next year.  Lydia's co-teacher this year, Lauren Hulphers, will assume the role of 6^th grade Core teacher full-time next year.

While it will be difficult to see these teachers go, even temporarily, we must embark on the process of finding someone to fill their large shoes.  We will begin our search for their replacements this week and welcome any referrals for qualified candidates.

When you see Lydia, Rajiv, and Kristin on campus, please take the opportunity to thank, congratulate, and wish them the best in their future endeavors. 

Warm regards,

Percy 

Mindfulness Parent Meeting -
March 17th, 6:30pm

40 Acts of Kindness Updates

Emily's Kindergarten is working on sending school supplies and other materials to some students in Afghanistan through a connection of one of the parents in the class. 

Human Race Walk-a-thon: The Gateway Human Race Team will support Meals On Wheels this year.  Our goal is to have 40 walkers who will raise $40 each. To sign up to be a walker, please email parent coordinator Virginia Ganley at virginiag@cruzio.com.

Online Auction 3/19-3/27

Auction Gala 4/2

Buy your tickets now! Auction proceeds support our Financial Aid program and a portion of the 2011 proceeds will support the Beach Flats Community Center. 

Please help us with a new community tradition! We are still looking for parents to bring a dish that is meaningful to your family to share with the community as part of the potluck luncheon, or to help with the baking of breads in the wood fired oven.  If you are interested in helping or would like to sign up to bring a dish, please email internationalspring2011@gatewaysc.org. 

The Economics of Happiness: Santa Cruz Film Premier & Local Living Expo.  Friday March 18th, 7:00pm at the Rio Theatre.  What does globalization really mean? How can localization help us?  The answers lie in la vida local! Join us for an inspirational and informative evening with the best local resources Santa Cruz has to offer! Featuring two Gateway parents as speakers at the event, and organized by another Gateway parent, this event is one you won't want to miss.  For more information, visit www.theeconomicsofhappiness.eventbrite.com.
 

Parent Workshop:

Different Learners: The Nature and Nurture of Learning Problems in the 21^st Century.   A workshop with Jane Healy, Ph.D. Saturday, April 2, 2011
9:00 am-12:00 pm at St. Pius School in Woodside. For more information, click here.