|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
PTC President's Message
Dear Saxe Families,
This month's PTC meeting will be a Principal and Counselor coffee with our four Administrators - Greg Macedo, Michael Woods, Linda Spenard and Wendy Bufferd - as well as our Guidance Counselors - Tammy Mardirossian, Meghan Emanuelson, Brad Lepisto, Deb Owen, Liz Margewicz and Sarah Beltran. This informal discussion is an opportunity to get to know your Administrators and Counselors in a relaxed setting and to hear about the many happenings at Saxe. Also, we hope to get your feedback on what works well and what can be done better. The question and answer discussion will begin on Wednesday, March 10th at 10:30am (the PTC business portion of our meeting starts at 10:00am) in the Saxe Auditorium. We hope to see you there. Please email any questions or topics that you would like addressed at the meeting to me at mwhome@optonline.net by March 8th.
On March 31st at 7:30 pm at the NCHS Auditorium, a town wide educational forum is being presented on the topic: "How to Raise a Drug Free Kid." Attendees to this free event will receive a copy of Joseph Califano,Jr.'s book of the same title. The topic is especially relevant to middle school families as national statistics show that binge drinking and drug experimentation begin around 7th or 8th grade - and our community is not an exception. This event will provide information and suggestions to add to our parenting "tool kits" not only as individual families but as a whole community. Please mark your calendars to attend this event.
Finally, the deadline for nomination submissions for the 2010-2011 Saxe PTC Executive Board and Committee Chairs is quickly approaching! You can complete and submit your ballot quickly and easily using our online nominations form, it only takes a few minutes. You can also find a link on the home page of the Saxe PTC website, www.saxeptc.org . Please take this opportunity to nominate yourself and fellow parents to fill the numerous positions that are available. You can name multiple candidates per position and request to work as a team.
Warmly,
Maria Weingarten
Saxe PTC President
mwhome@optonline.net
|
|
March PTC Meeting
Administrators' & Counselors' Coffee
Wednesday, March 10
10:00 am (Later start time due to CMTs)
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, Tammy Mardirossian, Meghan Emanuelson, Brad Lepisto, Deb Owen, Liz Margewicz and Christine Risoli, 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 by Monday, March 8th. 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! Tickets for Annie Jr. will also be on sale at the PTC Meeting. |
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 yourself, 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 15th. 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
Update
Dear Parents,
The Saxe & NCHS Joint Transition Team would like to
update you on a few items regarding the transition process.
-
The NCHS Program of Studies will be distributed to
students at Saxe in the coming weeks.
Be watching for it to come home!
Please review course options with your child. The Program of Studies can
also be accessed at the NCHS website (directions below).
-
Honors placement tests for English, Science, and AP World
History took place during February at Saxe.
-
In late March/early April, course registration forms with
course placement recommendations will be mailed from NCHS. A great deal of time and consideration
goes into each student's placement . The teachers and Department Chairs at both
the high school and Saxe are very familiar with the curriculum and
expectations. Their recommendations are made with that and the students'
best interest in mind. We would strongly encourage you to take
their recommendations into consideration.
If you would like to complete an appeals form for reconsideration of
placement, a description of the appeals process will accompany the Course
Registration Form.
-
Middle school counselors will visit with 8th graders on
April 14th and 15th to assist them in choosing electives. Students will be asked
to choose six electives on the registration form, in order of preference. Parents and students should review the
elective offerings in the Program of Studies and identify six elective choices
prior to April 14th and 15th.
Once completed, students will bring home their course forms to review
with you. Signed copies of the
form will be due back to the Saxe 8th grade counselors by Monday, April 26th.
If you have any questions about
this process, please contact your child's school counselor.
To view the Program of Studies Online:-
Access the NCHS homepage
through the district site.
-
On the top menu, click on
Student Services.
-
From the drop-down menu, click
Program of Studies.
-
Click Download now.
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER
March/Early
April
Mailing
from NCHS with course recommendations & appeals information
April 14 &
15
Eighth
graders complete Course Selection forms and choose electives with Saxe
counselors (math, world language, and honors placements will already be entered
on the forms).
April 26
Deadline
for return of signed course selection forms and appeals form to eighth grade
counselors.
May
Tours
of NCHS during the school day
|
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.
|
7th/8th Grade Musical 
Save the Date for Annie!
Based on the popular comic strip, Annie Jr. tells of a spunky Depression-era orphan determined to find her parents, who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations, befriends President Franklin Roosevelt and finds a new family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary Grace Farrell and a lovable mutt named Sandy. Come see Saxe students perform this popular American musical that features favorite songs, "Easy Street", "Hard Knock Life", to name a few.
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.
Tickets will also be on sale at the Saxe PTC Meeting on March 10th.
Contact Lee Ann Mistretta, lamistretta@me.com for more information.
|
 Open Studios
Invitation From the Art DepartmentThe Saxe Art Department cordially invites you to attend their very first Open Studios on: Thursday, April 22
6:30 to 8:00 pm
Art Rooms at Saxe
This event is a special opportunity for parents, teachers, guests and students to experience what takes place on any given day inside the art rooms at Saxe. Bring your family and be prepared to create! Draw, paint, build, watch, look, design and be a part of the action! Some activities include, but are not limited to, mural making, pottery wheel, recycled sculpture building and viewing work from some very promising, emerging artists. We look forward to seeing you there. The event is free and open to the public.
|
 Celebrate the End of CMTs!
Ice Cream Social, Neon Spirit Day, 8th Grade Bagel BreakfastFriday, March 19During lunchtime, Saxe will host its annual Ice Cream Celebration. Please bring $2.00 to school for a delicious Baskin Robbins sundae. Ice pops will also be offered for sale as an alternative to ice cream. Volunteers are still welcome for all grades to help scoop. Please contact Amy Conley at AmyMConley@msn.com if you have any questions. The Saxe A-Team will also be hosting Neon Day so wear your most electric colors! The PTC will host the 8th Grade Bagel Breakfast from 7:15 to 7:45am.
Please don't miss out on these fun events to celebrate the end of the CMTs.
|
"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
|
A-Team
Student Leadership NewsUpcoming Events for the A-Team Save the date for Neon Spirit Day to celebrate the end of CMTs on March 19th! _________
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:
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. Students can attend meetings and commit to projects based on their
choice. ALL students are welcome to come to any meeting. IT IS NOT TOO LATE TO JOIN!
Meetings are held every Wednesday after school, but are not mandatory.
7/8 Graders 2:05-2:45* or later (Ms. Bakes Rm. #202)
5/6 Graders 2:55-3:45* or pick-up at 4:00* (Ms. Martocci Rm # 41)
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. |
 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! |
 PTC Networking Meetings
"Frenemies" with
Meg Domino, MPH, CHES, Executive Director, New Canaan CARES
Tuesday, March 16
9:15 am
West School
Looking for ways to help your
children navigate the tricky waters of social relationships? Learn how to help them build friendship
skills and minimize hurtful behaviors.
This program will address the stages of friendship and establishing
identity; recognizing behaviors: normal, annoying or damaging; helping kids cope
when friendships change and minimizing negative behaviors: playground, playdate
and cyberspace!
"A Parent's Guide to Limit
Setting" with Eric Schleifer, Ph.D. Wednesday, March 17
9:15 am
South
School
Many of the social and academic problems that
children and adolescents face today stem from difficulties managing emotions. These
problems reveal themselves in a variety of ways, including: moodiness, defiance
of authority and poor social skills.
Dr. Schleifer, Child and Adolescent
Psychologist, will
outline strategies to help your child build their communication skills and gain
more control over their emotions with an end goal of taming the tantrum,
developing an attitude of gratitude and emphasizing manners and respect. _________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 |
 Thanks To You!
Margaret Pastel, June Bird and the Performing Arts Committee for bringing Arti Dixson and his big band to Saxe.
Mille Lovas, Irene Lysenko, and Kate Koller for their assistance with the Winter Concerts.
Parent Volunteers for volunteering and donating drinks at this year's Tech Night. Congratulations as well to all the students that presented at the event.
A Note from the Pasta Night Chairs:
Donna Hill, Deidre Shanley and Peyton Thalacker
This year's 5th Grade Pasta Night was a huge success thanks to:
- Wendy Bufferd, Brenda Carmichael and Mary Calabrese
- 5th Grade Room Moms
- Stan and the custodial staff
- Marie and her food service staff
- All the amazing 5th graders (our waiters and waitresses for the evening)
- All the 5th Grade parents (for volunteering their time and talents for the night)
- 5th Grade teachers who helped with Bingo and joined us for dinner
- Wendy Pratt, Ellen Patch, Debbie Dolby and Maria Weingarten
- Poland Spring water on tables generously donated by Nestle Waters and drinks donated by the Switch Beverage Company, proud supporters of New Canaan Kids
- The New Canaan Police Department
Very special thanks to our wonderful Committee Chairs who made this evening possible:
Maryalice Gelhaus, Carol Catalano, Laura Wilson, Chhaya Dagli, Suzy Nolan, Elena Schlegel, Kelly Frankenfield, Nancy Greenspon, Molly Ludtke, Janine Pickhardt, Kathy Bucci, Flo Jones, Tish Keshin, Linda Haney, Jane Armstrong, Phyl Condon, Christina Fagerstal, Jane Ponterotto.
|
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.
|
Outback Teen Center
March 2010 Events
After school programs at the Outback!
Helping teens to find their niche! Check out the Outback Teen Center's Winter/Spring brochure of class offerings. Film Making, Film Acting, Boot Camp, Yoga, and more! Accepting registration NOW! Click Here to see class offerings.
Please register by Friday, March 12. Space is limited! For more information or to register please contact the First County Bank sponsored hot line at 203-594-3074 or send us an email at outbackteencenter@gmail.com.
Middle School Student Governing Board (for 7th/8th Grade)
Tuesday, March 16 and Tuesday, March 30
6:00 to 7:00 pm
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!
8th Grade Dance - Friday, March 5
6:30 to 10:00 pm
Doors open at 6:30pm for dinner at the teen center café, $6 combo meals, music will play from 7:00 to 10:00 pm. This event is free for members and $15 for non-members. Students must reserve their spot in order to attend. A member of the Outback staff will be at Saxe during 8th grade lunch for students to sign up on Wednesday, March 3rd and Thursday, March 4th.
7th Grade Dance - Friday, March 12
6:30 to 10:00 pm
Doors open at 6:30pm for dinner at the teen center café, $6 combo meals, music will play from 7:00 to 10:00 pm. This event is free for members and $15 for non-members. Students must reserve their spot in order to attend. A member of the Outback staff will be at Saxe during 7th grade lunch for students to sign up on Wednesday, March 10th and Thursday, March 11th.
Club 78 Events
Club 78 happens every Friday for 7th/8th graders from 3:00 to 5:00 pm.
It's a great opportunity to hang out with friends and take part in some cool activities and themed events. Members - FREE and Non-members - $3. See March events below:
Who Done It! Live Action Clue
Can you solve the mystery? Bring your friends and see if you can solve the mystery of the Outback!
Friday, March 5
3:00 to 6:00 pm
Battle of the Grades
Participate in crazy games like pie eating and other activities!
Friday, March 12
3:00 to 5:00 pm
Open Mic Afternoon
Come play songs, sing, read poetry and stories, tell jokes, or just listen to your friends perform.
Friday, March 19
3:00 to 5:00 pm
March Madness Party!
Games, Tournaments, Music, and Food!
Friday, March 26
3:00 to 5:00 pm
Girls Night Out - Saturday, March 13
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Come jam out in your jammies with your girlfriends! Learn a hip hop routine to your favorite songs, while wearing your comfy clothes! This event is free for members and $5 for non-members!
NEW!!! 6th Grade 3D Movie Night - Friday, March 19
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Here's your chance to check out the Outback Teen Center. We will be holding a 3D movie night for 6th graders! This event is $10 and includes a $5 teen center café meal ticket! A member of the Outback staff will be at Saxe during 6th grade lunch for students to sign up on Wednesday, March 17th and Thursday, March 18th. Students can sign up and pay at the door.
Outback Student Idea Contest - $100 Cash Prize for best idea!
ATTENTION 7th/8th graders, the Outback Teen Center is looking for the best event idea.
Winner will get $100 cash and the chance to put their idea to action at the Outback. Submissions are due by March 19th and winner will be notified by March 26. Winner will be chosen by the high school student governing board. To get an official entry form please check out the Outback website www.ncoutbacktc.com, stop by the Outback Teen Center, or call the First County Bank sponsored hot line for more details, 203-594-3074.
Parent's Corner at the Outback
Workshops, guest speakers, events and more!
Strengthening Families: Raising Responsible Teens - Tuesday, March 2
9:30 am - 11:00 am
A discussion about substance abuse, risky behaviors and prevention strategies for parents with featured speaker Moira Rizzo LMFT. Moira Rizzo is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years experience working in prevention and treatment of substance abuse and other risky behaviors amongst adolescents. As a clinician and parent, Moira is dedicated to keeping our youth healthy and safe. Free Admission and refreshments provided. Please sign up in advance by contacting the Outback Teen Center's First County Bank sponsored hotline at 203-594-3074. Parent forum is brought to you by the Outback Teen Center's Board of Directors.
The Danger of Raising Nice Kids - Monday, March 22
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
A Workshop for Parents at the Outback Teen Center.Preparing Your Children to Change Their World is an engaging presentation designed for parents of school aged children who want more than nice kids. www.parentscoach.org. Cost: $20 individual, $35 per couple (at door) Register at nicekidsworkshop@gmail.com (include full name, phone# & email). Sponsored by Asset Building Organizations.
Outback Hours
The OBTC hosts open hours for middle school students on Tues.-Sat. from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. Bring friends and come by to play some pool, do homework with friends, watch a movie, use our computers, or just hang out. This is time reserved exclusively for middle school students, so stop by anytime.
Planning to attend any of the Outback's programs or events? Please RSVP by calling the First County Bank Sponsored Hotline at 594-3074.
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. |
| Community News
Headlines
NCHS
drama program presents The Mystery of
Edwin Drood, a musical whodunit by
Rupert Holmes, March
11th,12th & 13th
Middle School Madness at the Y presents March Madness Basketball, Saturday, March 13
The
New Canaan League of Women Voters presents a forum entitled Planning
for Our
Schools in a Changing Economy, Wednesday,
March 17
NCHS Post Prom Fundraiser, A Starry Nite of Style, Saturday, March 27
Fresh Air Fund Host Families Needed! Give inner-city children the opportunity to have a summer vacation in the country.
New
Canaan Girls' Field Hockey Registration Information
|
| March and April Calendar
Upcoming Events
3/1 PTC Executive Board Meeting (9:30am)
3/10 PTC General Meeting (10:00am)
3/19 8th Grade Bagel Breakfast
3/19 Ice Cream Social
3/19 Spirit Day - Wear Neon Day
3/25-27 7th/8th Grade Musical
4/2-9 No School (Vacation)
4/12 PTC Executive Board Meeting (9:15am)
4/19-23 Daytime Parent Open Houses
4/20-22 Book Fair
4/21 PTC General Meeting (9:30am)
4/22 Teacher Appreciation Day
4/27 Incoming 5th Grade Parent Orientation (7:30pm)
4/28 Incoming 6th Grade Parent Orientation (7:30pm)
4/28 Chamber Music Concert (NCHS Wagner Room 7:00 pm)
4/29 Incoming 7th & 8th Grade Parent Orientation
|
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!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
