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PTC President's Message
Dear Saxe Families,
It is hard to believe, but the Saxe PTC Nominating process is getting underway for the 2010-2011 school year. As a convenience, this year we have placed the nominations form online and provide a link here so that you can complete and submit your ballot quickly and easily. You can also find a link on the home page of the Saxe PTC website, www.ncps-k12.org/saxeptc. The Board and Chair positions are filled well in advance of the coming school year to ease transition for the incoming volunteers. Please take this opportunity to nominate yourself and fellow parents to fill the numerous positions that are available - it only takes a few minutes. You can name multiple candidates per position, as well as request to work as a team.
In addition, new this year, we are adding a co-president position. Each of the New Canaan Elementary Schools has a successful PTC co-president model and the addition of a staggered co-president position at Saxe will allow for a division of responsibilities while providing continuity and a smooth transition. If you would like more information about any of the PTC positions before nominating yourself or someone else, please feel free to contact the current year's chair or any member of our PTC Executive Board with your questions. A current year Executive and Committee Chair List is available in the front pages of the Saxe PTC Student Directory and on the Saxe PTC website.
Your volunteer efforts can help in the fundraising process for additional school needs, to create social opportunities that draw kids together, and to maintain viable non-academic programs that supplement our kids classroom experience. There is no better way to get to know what is happening at Saxe than by giving your time and volunteering. Thanks for your support.
Finally, please take a moment to look at the Community News Section of the PTC website for some student-initiated events to support Haiti relief efforts.
Have a wonderful February and enjoy the holiday break.
Best regards,
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March PTC Meeting
Administrators' & Counselors' Coffee
Wednesday, March 10
10:00 am
Saxe Auditorium
Join our four Administrators - Greg Macedo (Head Administrator/6th Grade), Michael Woods (8th Grade), Linda Spenard (7th Grade) and Wendy Bufferd (5th Grade) for an informal discussion on what is happening at Saxe. In addition, our Saxe Guidance Counselors will also be on hand to discuss what is occurring at school from a social-emotional learning perspective. Don't miss this chance to hear firsthand about all that is important in your child's middle school world. If you have any questions or comments that you would like addressed at the coffee, please forward them in advance, if possible, to Maria Weingarten at mwhome@optonline.net. As time is limited, we want to make sure we are able to discuss those topics most important to you. Of course, feel free to ask questions that come up during the coffee as well. We look forward to seeing you! |
Saxe PTC Nominating News
The Saxe PTC Nominating Committee is getting underway and we need your help! We are seeking nominations for the 2010-2011 PTC Executive Board and Committee Chairs. Please use the 2010-2011 online Nominating Form listing the available positions and brief descriptions of the responsibilities they entail. Please review the list and nominate your self, friends and acquaintances that you feel would be excellent candidates. We welcome more than one name for any position. If you think two or more people would make great co-chairs, please let us know. No one has to work alone- the more, the merrier! If you only know people that you think would be great for only a few positions, please fill those in; you do not need candidates for every position. The Nominating Committee will be meeting shortly to review your input and fill these positions, so please look over the list and respond by March 1st. If you have any questions or would like to email your nominations, please contact our nominating chair: Tracey Gould at 203-966-8922 or jtgould@optonline.net. Thank you for your input. Saxe PTC Nominating Committee - 2010Tracey Gould - Nominating Chair Maria Weingarten Doreen Conley Peggy DeMayo Siri Kloud |
8th Grade Transition to the High School
Eighth grade students and their parents are invited to an informative meeting on the transition to New Canaan High School. Thursday, February 4, 2010
7:00 to 9:00 pm
NCHS Auditorium
January Transition Happenings
In January, the 8th grade counselors kicked off the 9th grade transition process. Students were all given an opportunity in Advisory to write about what they already know about the HS and what questions they still have. This prior knowledge and remaining questions will guide our transition programs and allow us to tailor the information to student needs. On January 22nd, 8th grade counselors Mrs. Emanuelson, Mr. Lepisto, and Ms. Mardirossian visited 8th grade classes to present some introductory information about the HS. Students had the opportunity to learn about topics such as credits, the attendance policy, electives, and the schedule. The powerpoint presentation is available on the 8th grade counseling webpage by visiting NCPS>Saxe>Websites>Grade 8> 7th and 8th grade Counseling> 9th grade Transition. On January 28th, Mr. Larry Sullivan, Asst. Principal at NCHS visited with the entire 8th grade to share his perspective on being a student at NCHS. Mr. Sullivan will be the Administrator with this class for the duration of their years at the HS, so it was a wonderful opportunity for them to meet him and ask questions.
Upcoming Transition Dates to Remember
January 20 to Feb 2
Online
request form for Honors/AP consideration available on Transition page of 8th
grade counseling site until end of school day Feb 2nd.
Tuesday, February 2
Deadline
to submit online form requesting to sit for the Honors placement tests.
Thursday, February 4
Eighth
Grade Parent-Student Orientation Night
New
Canaan High School - 7:00
PM
(8th Grade parents and student attend together)
Snow
date: Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Monday, February 8
Honors
English performance task administration
After
school in the Saxe Cafeteria - 2:15
to 3:30 pm
Make-up
dates: Wed. 2/24 and Thurs. 2/25, Snow
date: Monday, 2/22 & Tuesday 2/23
Tuesday, February 9
AP
World History performance task administration
After
school in the Saxe Cafeteria - 2:15
to 3:30 pm
Make-up
dates: Wed. 2/24 and Thurs. 2/25, Snow
date: Monday, 2/22 & Tuesday 2/23
Wednesday, February 10
Honors
Science performance task administration
After
school in the Saxe Cafeteria - 2:15
to 3:30 pm
Make-up
dates: Wed. 2/24 and Thurs. 2/25, Snow
date: Monday, 2/22 & Tuesday 2/23
March, 2010
Mailing
from NCHS with Course selection process, recommendations and appeals
process.
April, 2010
Eighth
graders complete elective selections Course Selection Forms in Social Studies classes with
middle school and high school counselors (math, world language and honors
placements will already be entered on forms). Forms with parent signatures are due back to eighth-grade
counselors by April 23rd.
Friday, April 23
Deadline
for return of signed course selection forms and Academic Placement Appeals
forms to eighth-grade counselors.
May, 2010
Tours
& Orientation Assembly for 8th grade students with panel of NCHS
students
August, 2010
Freshman
Orientation at NCHS
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| A-Team
Student Leadership News
Have you heard about the A-TEAM? The Saxe Aspirations Team (A-TEAM) is a volunteer based group of student leaders.
The A-TEAM's purpose is to promote and celebrate a caring and committed Saxe community through activities and service learning projects focused on the Student Aspirations Pyramid:
- a sense of belonging
- heroes
- sense of accomplishment
- creativity and curiosity
- fun and excitement
- spirit of adventure
- leadership and responsibility
- confidence to take action
Attendance and participation on the A-TEAM includes a variety of experiences to develop leadership and community activism through: meetings, guest speakers, field trips, research and discussion, awareness projects, and service projects.
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Students can attend meetings and commit to projects based on their choice.
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ALL students are welcome to come to any meeting.
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IT IS NOT TOO LATE TO JOIN!
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Meetings are held every Wednesday after school, but not mandatory.
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A 'late bus' is provided for students leaving Saxe at 3:45.
- Students who will be picked up may stay until 4:00.
- Students may also meet during lunch or on days other than Wednesday.
Questions, please contact Katie Bakes at Katherine.Bakes@newcanaan.k12.ct.usUpcoming Events for the A-Team Thursday, February 11 we will have Pajama Day in conjunction with collecting for the Pajama Program. The Pajama Program is a non-profit organization, which collects and provides new pajamas and new books to children in need in and out of the US, many who are waiting to be adopted. http://www.pajamaprogram.org/OpenYourHeart.htmlThe PTC is hosting the 8th grade Bagel Breakfast. A-Team News from January- 15 ATEAM members from 6th to 8th grade participated in "Making Acceptance Acceptable" Leadership conference at Quinnipiac University. They hope to implement what they learned as soon as possible at Saxe.
- Students are collecting "Change for Change" until 1/29 for the benefit of the Haiti earthquake victims.
- Clone Day was held on 1/29
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Board of Education News
December 2009A first read of the District's 2010-2011 budget was presented at the first BOE meeting in 2010. Dr. Abbey stated the $71 million dollar budget was "resource effective and fiscally responsible." This budget represents an increase of 1.39% from last year-the lowest increase ever. There will be a 2nd read at the next BOE meeting and then the budget will be presented to the Board of Selectmen on 1/22. FLES (Foreign Language in Elementary Schools) was added to the budget for 5th grade students for the next school year. The BOE felt that the program was so beneficial for students that the program should be expanded. Next year will be a transitional year with professional training and development in the first trimester, Spanish classroom instruction for 7 homerooms in the second trimester and classroom instruction for the remaining homerooms in the third trimester. The Board also heard a presentation on Operation Safe Bus by Police Capt. Leon Krolikowski. This joint program of the New Canaan Public Schools and the New Canaan Police Department targets drivers who pass school buses. Education and awareness are the primary objectives, but the police also intend to meet with state representatives to discuss making the violations a more serious offense. Nick Williams proposed that future BOE meetings, starting February 8, be televised live on Channel 79. The Board voted and approved the initiative unanimously. Board of Education Liaisons Jennifer Essigs jenniferessigs@gmail.com Kelly KrausKraushaus00@aol.com |
NCPS Special Education Meeting
Please Join us!We would like to invite all Parents of Special Education Students, PreK through Grade 12, to attend a presentation by the Special Education Administration on the 2010 Extended School Year (ESY) Program in New Canaan. Wednesday, March 3
9:30 am to 10:30 am
East School Galley
Planning ESY is an integral part of the IEP and a team decision. This meeting will review eligibility, the kinds of services that can be provided and the types of programs that will be offered this summer.
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"How to Raise a Drug Free Kid"
Town Wide Educational ForumJoseph Califano Jr., founder and Chair of The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University will be coming to provide an educational forum on his newest book, "How to raise a Drug Free Kid". This event is a joint effort of the town, schools, police, New Canaan Cares,faith community, and PFA groups etc... This is a free program and all attendees will receive a complimentary copy of the book. This program will also be followed up by parenting classes which will compliment Mr. Califano's recommendations which are research based. For more information contact Joyce Sixsmith, Substance Abuse Counselor/Consultant at joyce.sixsmith@gmail.com or 917-678-0543. Come learn about what you can do to support New Canaan youth to be safe and substance free.
Wednesday March 31
7:30 pm
NCHS Auditorium
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 Visual and Performing Arts
Invitation to Saxe Parents
NCHS PFA invites you to a very special meeting and performance!
"Visual and Performing Arts at the High School"
Wednesday, March 17
9:30 am
NCHS Auditorium
Teachers and students from every discipline will present and perform - visual artists, musicians, singers and actors. This event is a great opportunity for 8th Grade Parents to see samples of electives and extra-curricular opportunities for the incoming freshman students.
Come see what lies ahead! |
7th/8th Grade Musical 
Save the Date for Annie!
Performances:
Thursday, March 25 at 7:00 pm (Annie played by Nancy Leville)
Friday, March 26 at 7:00 pm (Annie played by Megan Mistretta)
Saturday, March 27 at 2:00 pm (Annie played by Megan Mistretta)
Box Office Hours:
March 22nd, 23rd and 24th
10:30-12:30 pm (by the cafeteria)
6:00-7:00 pm (in the lobby)
1 hour prior to performances
Tickets are on sale now, all seats are $10. Please download our Ticket Application Form to purchase tickets.
Contact Lee Ann Mistretta, lamistretta@me.com for more information.
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New Canaan Tech Night
In its fourth year, New Canaan Public School's Tech Night is once again bringing together students and technology. This year's event includes about 40 to 50 extracurricular projects created outside of the classroom by students from grades 3-12 and curricular uses of technology within the schools. This night is meant to provide students and educators alike an opportunity to showcase how technology enhances and encourages learning. Attendees will have the opportunity to view a showing in the High School Planetarium. Each student goes through a formal application process whereby they submit their idea for a project, describe its use of technology and provide a reason for sharing their idea. Each application is then reviewed by a committee of faculty and staff who then provide these students the opportunity to teach and inspire others with their ideas and creations. Some of this year's submissions include: · Individually created websites
· PVC projects (instruments, air cannons, etc...
· Video and computer games and accessories
· Motorized and programmed toys
· Presentations of technology as part of our student's daily lives
This year's Tech Night is scheduled to take place: Monday, February 1 (snow date of Wednesday, February 24, 2010)
6:30 pm
New Canaan High School
If you'd like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview with Rob Miller, please call Katie Hart at 203/594-4618 or e-mail Katie at Katie.Hart@newcanaan.k12.ct.us
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 PTC Networking Meetings
"Navigating the Teen Party Scene" with Meg Domino, MPH, CHES, Executive Director, New Canaan CARES Wednesday, February 10
NCHS at 9:30 am and
OUTBACK Teen Center at 7:00 pm (repeat program)
What constitutes the 'new' party scene our youth experience, and why and how can we navigate its ups and downs? What factors contribute to alcohol and other drug use and what protective factors limit high-risk behaviors associated with the teen party scene? And how do we set and enforce appropriate limits and boundaries, while simultaneously encouraging independence and appropriate risk-taking? "Challenges and Changes: Mid to Late Adolescence" (7th - 12th grade) with Marcie Schneider, MD, FAAP, FSAM
Tuesday, February 23
Waveny House at 9:30 am
This is a free community program. Always engaging, Dr. Marcie Schneider returns to speak on a variety of adolescent issues. Dr. Schneider will address the physical, social and emotional roller-coaster that our mid to late adolescents navigate daily. She balances hard-hitting facts with practical advice drawing on her past experience as Director of Adolescent Medicine for Greenwich Hospital. Her background with teen stress, nutritional issues, and adolescent sexuality will resonate with parents of all ages. New Canaan CARES is an independent, non-profit community organization whose purpose is to advance the health and well-being of youth and families. CARES provides responsive educational programs and professional development that support and strengthen parenting skills, positive youth development and healthy lifestyles. Please visit www.newcanaanCARES.org for more information on CARES and our upcoming programs. |
 From the Nurse's Office
Health Notices
Allergy Alert
Saxe is a LATEX FREE school to protect any students with a life threatening latex allergy.
NO LATEX GLOVES
NO BALLOONS
NO KOOSH BALLS - Anywhere or anytime
These items are particularly dangerous because they can cause the latex particles to become airborne. We use only vinyl gloves and only mylar balloons.
Thanks for your cooperation in keeping our school safe for all our students
_______ Food Allergies
Please remember that ALL Field Trips at Saxe are Nut Free.
_______ How to Avoid the Flu- Get a seasonal flu shot. The CDC recommends flu shots for ALL children 6 months to 18 years. Children are a pivotal point of transmission for spread of flu.
This year in addition to the seasonal flu shot, there is the H1N1 vaccine for children at risk. Consult your doctor about this vaccine. Handwashing is an excellent means of prevention. Keep your hands away from your face. Germs enter through your mouth, nose and eyes. Cough Etiquette includes covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing or sneezing into your sleeve. Avoid close contact with sick people, stay home from work/school when you are ill.
Stay home until you are fever free for 24 hours without fever reducing medicine.
How Flu spreadsThe flu spreads by respiratory droplets released by an infected person coughing or sneezing. This is why it is so vital that we all cover our mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. It usually spreads from person to person, though occasionally touching something with virus on it and then touching their nose or mouth may infect a person. Symptoms of Flu are: fever, headache, extreme fatigue, muscle aches, dry cough, and joint pain. Some complications caused by the flu include bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions such as asthma and diabetes. Children may develop sinus and ear infections.Please do not send your child to school if she/he has a fever or is ill. We need your help to keep our school healthy._______ Notice to 6th Grade ParentsConnecticut State Law requires ALL students to have a Physical exam During Sixth grade. The blue Health form needs to be on file in the Nurses office by the last day of 6th grade. The State Department of Health has confirmed that the immunization requirements for entry to 7th grade :
- 2 Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccines
- A second dose of Varicella
- A dose of Tdap
These forms were sent to all 6th graders over the summer. Upon completion of the exam, which usually coincides with the students birthday, send the blue form to the Nurses office. We accept physicals from June of 09 until June of 10 . Your child will not be permitted to begin 7th grade without this on file. _______
Head LiceAnother health topic that causes concern is head lice and we have had a handful of cases in school this past month. Just a reminder that there is a powerpoint presentation on the New Canaan Public School website with information about head lice. Click on the link here: Lice Presentation.
Another helpful and comprehensive place for information is the Center for Disease Control site www.cdc.gov/lice. You can also call Saxe to speak with a school nurse.
Anne Goebel RN, 7th/8th grade nurse
Janet Reed RN, 5th/6th grade nurse |
Computers for Kids
The Computers for Kids Program is beginning its 11th year! A wonderful staff of volunteers takes donated computers and refurbishes them. We then give them to students, staff or community members who need a computer for home use but cannot buy one right now. If you know someone in need of a working computer, please contact Patty Potts at patricia.potts@newcanaan.k12.ct.us.
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 Thanks To You!
Meg Domino of New Canaan CARES, for her parallel parenting presentations at our January PTC meeting and for providing a repeat presentation that evening at the OUTBACK.
Donna Hill, Deirdre Shanley and Peyton Thalacker for chairing 5th Grade Pasta Night. This social fundraiser is a highlight of the 5th grade and an enormous undertaking. Thank you to our wonderful chairs and to their many, many volunteers for making this event possible. Thank you to our fantastic 5th grade servers and also to all the 5th grade teachers who made an effort to be part of this evening. Lastly, thank you to Ms. Bufferd and Brenda Carmichael for their help and support in preparing for this event.
Ms. Roach, Mr. Leckie, Mr. Coulter, Ms. Rosen and Ms. Gleason for the impressive strings, band, and choral concerts during the month of January.
Ellen Patch for creating the website for the 7th & 8th Grade Musical "Annie Jr.", we truly appreciate all your efforts.
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Outback Teen Center
February 2010 Events
Food at the Outback!
The Apple Cart has come to the Outback! Grand Opening on Friday, Feb. 5th! After school special from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., $5 combo meals! See website for menu! Door prizes will be given to lucky winners!
Club 78
Friday, February 5
DDR Tournament 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Come compete in a DDR tournament and see if you have the skills! Free for members, $3 for non-members.
Friday, February 26
Olympic games are here! Want to compete in some Olympic sports? Here's your chance from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.! Free for members, $3 for non-members.
Dances
Saturday, February 6
8th grade Valentine's Dance! Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for dinner at the Outback Café, $6 combo meals. The music will play from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. This event is free for members and $15 for non-members. A member of the Outback staff will be at Saxe during lunch on Wednesday, Feb. 3rd and Thursday, Feb. 4th during 8th grade lunches in order for students to reserve their spots to this awesome event!
Thursday, February 11
7th/8th grade Pre-Vacation Party! Tournaments, music, prizes, and much more! Come kick off your vacation week right! This event is free for members and $3 for non-members! Come and have a great time from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m!
Friday, February 26
7th grade Valentine's Dance! Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for dinner at the Outback Café, $6 combo meals and the music will play from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. This event is free for members and $15 for non-members. A member of the Outback staff will be at Saxe during lunch on Wednesday, Feb. 24th and Thursday, Feb. 25th during 8th grade lunches in order for students to reserve their spots to this awesome event!
Guys Night Out
Saturday, February 27
7th and 8th grade Guys Night Out! Compete in a videogame tournament from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. This event is free for members and $5 for non-members! Prizes for best players!
Student Governing Board
The SGB will be meeting on Tuesday, February 9th and Tuesday, February 23rd from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Help create events and fundraisers! Need community service hours? This is the place to do it! Want to make up events for the Outback? This is the place to do it! Interested? Come to a meeting!
The Outback will be open during vacation week! Special events going on all week! Wednesday, February17th the Outback will be holding a bowling tournament! Come bowl and eat delicious food from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. This event is free for members and $3 for non-members. Come bring your friends, compete against other teams for prizes! On Friday, Feb. 19th the Outback will be hosting real-life mystery night! Who done it? Can you solve the mystery? Bring your friends and see if you can solve the mystery of the Outback from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.! This event is free for members and $5 for non-members!
Keep an eye out for all the fun programs and events the Outback will be offering during the school year. For more information, questions, or comments please call the First County Bank-Sponsored Hotline at 594-3074, e-mail at outbackteencenter@gmail.com, or check the Outback website ncoutbacktc.com. If you're on Facebook, become a fan of the OBTC, listed as "New Canaan Outback Teen Center."
Did you know? The Outback is also available for private rentals. It's the perfect place for a party or event. Please contact us for more information.
The New Canaan Outback Teen Center is affiliated with the YMCA and is a United Way agency.
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| Community News
Headlines Visit the Saxe PTC Community News Blog for detailed information.
February and March Middle School Madness at the Y
Pura Vida for Haiti - Dining for a Difference, February 1-7
Hoops for Haiti, February 6 SPED*NET, Special Education Network of New Canaan, February 24
Visit the Saxe PTC Community News Blog for detailed information.
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February and March Calendar
2/1 NCPS Tech Night @ NCHS (6:30 - 8:00 pm)
2/2-2/5 Daytime Parent Open Houses
2/2 Grade 7 - 8 Band Concert (7:00 pm)
2/3 Grade 5 - 8 Strings Concert (7:00 pm)
2/4 8th Grade Parent Night @ NCHS (7:00 pm)
2/9 8th Grade Parent Night @ NCHS (Snow Date)
2/10 Saxe Concert Snow Date (7:00 pm)
2/12-19 No School (Vacation)
2/24 NCPS Tech Night @ NCHS 7:00 pm (Snow Date)
3/1 PTC Executive Board Meeting (9:15am)
3/10 PTC General Meeting (9:30am)
3/25-27 7th/8th Grade Musical
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Submissions to Saxe News Monthly
The Saxe News is distributed on the first of every month. Submissions are due one week prior to the first day of each month. No need to format your copy, please follow the tips below:
- You may send your item in an email or as an MS Word attachment
- Please don't use all-caps or abbreviate days, months and times
- Remember to include web links and email contacts
- Please order your information as follows: header, item description, date, time, place, contact info
Send to epatch@mac.com. Thank You!
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