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Oak Knoll PTO
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Otter Weekly
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January 26, 2014
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Tuesday, January 28
- Kindergarten Orientation Meeting: 7:00pm, Library. Parents only please.
Wednesday, January 29
- Lawrence Hall of Science Trip, 4th Grade: 8:15am-3:00pm
Friday, January 31
- Q&A session with Mr. Matthew Zito, Principal Menlo-Atherton High School: 8:30am, Gym
Saturday, February 1
- Winterfest: 5:00-7:00pm, Oak Knoll
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Monday, February 3 Tuesday, February 4 Wednesday, February 5 Thursday, February 6Friday, February 7 Monday, February 10 - Friday, February 14 Wednesday, February 12
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A note from Kristen Gracia, Oak Knoll Vice Principal
As part of the Oak Knoll staff and part of the Oak Knoll parent community, Oak Knoll is obviously up close and personal to me. Like all parents, I am interested in what goes on at school, and because I work here I have the luxury of knowing. My goal with this ongoing column is to provide that knowledge to you. I plan to share some of the exciting behind-the-scenes information that goes into making Oak Knoll the wonderful school that it is. I hope you will find this update to be a quick-to-read, thought-provoking resource that equips you with enough information to strike up conversations with your kids about what goes on at Oak Knoll. Every column will be focused on part of our mission statement, hence the name...Mission Accomplished! We have a number of school initiatives going on at all times and each article will give you the inside scoop on something that you might not have otherwise known about Oak Knoll.
The banner above now hangs in the office. This is our visual representation of our school mission statement: Every child and exemplary scholar, a valued friend, and a courageous citizen. This year the Oak Knoll Staff and Site Council worked to bring our mission to life. The first step in this process included defining each part of the statement. For example, what three words would you use to describe an exemplary scholar? For our staff, an exemplary scholar is a person who is resourceful, curious, and has a growth mindset. You will find these attributes written above the "Exemplary Scholar" circle on our banner. With the help of the School Site Council, goals were then developed around our mission. Having the goals aligned to our mission helps us monitor the progress we are making in accomplishing our mission for each student. If you are interested in reading our 2013-14 Site Plan, including our school goals, click here.
One of our goals under Exemplary Scholar is that our 5th grade students will have a clear understanding of the difference between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset. Part of our action plan under this goal is to provide students the instruction and opportunities to understand, define and most importantly, develop a growth mindset. This goal is based on Carol Dweck's research in her book Mindset. In 2006, Dr. Carol Dweck published Mindset, asserting that intelligence and other human attributes are not determined at birth. Achievement and ability are flexible and can be influenced by effective hard work. Learners are identified as those who have either a "fixed" or a "growth" mindset. Students with a growth mindset embrace challenges, persist in the face of setbacks, see effort as the path to mastery, and learn from coaching, criticism and mistakes. Those with a fixed mindset avoid challenge and seek out easy tasks that confirm their view of themselves as superior, and collapse when confronted with failure. A central tenet of Dweck's research is that beliefs about the self and one's abilities influence behavior and subsequent educational outcomes, and beliefs can be changed. She demonstrated through decades of research that people could be influenced in the direction of a growth mindset. Once mindset changed, behavior changed accordingly. In some studies, encouraging a growth mindset greatly improved academic outcomes.
As part of this work, our School Counselor, Nicole Scott, and our School Psychologist, Jenny Ryan, have started a Friday KNOL segment called Brain Time. Currently they are teaching the kids about various parts of the brain. This will lead us into improving our students' growth mindset. "Mistakes are great, have a positive attitude, believe in yourself, learn new things, stretch your brain and challenge yourself," are all messages Brain Time delivers every Friday morning to all of our students. Along these same lines, we recently purchased Carol Dweck's book as well as the children's book Your Fantastic Elastic Brain by JoAnn Deak for every classroom. At Oak Knoll we believe smart is NOT something you are, but rather something you get through hard work and dedication. Teachers embed this philosophy in their lessons and students are encouraged to try new things and take risks with their learning.
Remember...
- Ask your kids if they have seen Brain Time or read the book The Fantastic Elastic Brian in their classroom. Can they explain the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset?
- Next time your child says they can't do something, make sure you remind them of my favorite word...YET! "You can't do it YET, but with practice you will do it."
- As parents we have to model when things are hard for us. Set a good example when taking on a challenge. Sometimes our kids think everything should come easy to them because they think it is that way for us.
- It's never too late to develop a growth mindset!
I want to take this opportunity to open my door to you. Please use me as a resource on your Oak Knoll journey. Feel free to get in touch with me at any point with any questions, concerns, or better yet new ideas!
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Kindergarten Orientation Meeting - This Tuesday
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If you have a child entering Kindergarten at Oak Knoll for the 2014-15 school year, come join Mr. Ackerman, Ms. Gracia and the Kindergarten teachers for the Kindergarten Orientation meeting on January 28. This is an opportunity, before February registration, to meet the Kindergarten teachers, see the classrooms, gather information about the school, and ask questions. This is a parent only night.
Date: Tuesday, January 28
Time: 7 - 8:30 pm
Where: Oak Knoll Library
Who: Parents of incoming Kindergarten students, class of 2014-15
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Q&A with Matthew Zito, Principal Menlo-Atherton High School - This Friday
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Join us for a conversation with Mr. Matthew Zito, Principal of Menlo-Atherton High School this Friday, January 31 at 8:30am in the Gym.
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Yard Duty Help Needed - Upper Yard
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We believe recess should be a child-centered time in the day for kids to be kids. Recess is not only an opportunity for kids to exercise, play and interact with other children, but a time to problem-solve. Conflicts will arise and recess is the perfect time for our students to experience the normal, developmental issues that come up when children play. We encourage kids to find a solution, to listen to each other, and to work together.
At Oak Knoll, we are fortunate to have a great Yard Duty Staff. However, having volunteers on our yard during lunch recess would be helpful and greatly appreciated. Being on the yard is a great way to see the kids in action and support their playtime.
The Need: two to three parents each day from 11:45am - 1:00pm (Three parents Mon, Wed, Fri) to help with Nature Zone, Otter Mileage Club and general Yard Duty help.
If you share our philosophy and are interested in volunteering on our Upper Yard during lunch (11:45am-1:00pm) please email Tracy Watt.
Kristen Gracia
Vice Principal, Oak Knoll School
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A Reminder about Biking to School - coming from White Oak to Oak Knoll Lane
Parents --- many children and parents who bike to school coming from White Oak are not walking their bikes along Oak Knoll Lane. Proper bike safety rules state that bikers should walk their bikes if going against traffic. Since students coming "to" school from White Oak are going against traffic, they need to get off their bikes and walk the half block from White Oak to the crosswalk. This is safer for the parents & students walking to school along that stretch of Oak Knoll Lane who could get clipped by a biker who is riding and not walking a bike. Thanks for being safe!
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Otter Weekly Position Opening
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Oak Knoll is looking for a new editorial director for its newsletter, Otter Weekly. The position entails coordination with parents, staff and third parties connected to the school and District, and organization/formatting of content for weekly electronic newsletters. No previous experience in editing or publishing is required, though basic computer skills are needed. For more information contact Kristi Rawlinson.
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Winterfest - This Saturday
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Please come mix and mingle at our annual Oak Knoll Winterfest event while having fun participating in a flashlight scavenger hunt, Zumba class, playing games, doing crafts and eating some great food at our potluck. This event helps Oak Knoll's resident families and Oak Knoll's families from the Tinsley Voluntary Transfer Program get to know each other better. Winterfest is on Saturday, February 1 from 5:00-7:00pm at Oak Knoll.
Please RSVP to Carolyn Bowsher if you'd like to attend or would like more info about the event.
If you would like to sign up for the potluck, or volunteer at the event, please use this Jooners link to sign up.
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Family Math Night - February 6
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Count on attending Family Math Night, Thursday, February 6 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. in the Oak Knoll Gym.
Enjoy fun and engaging activities with your children that will get them to think about and make sense of numbers.
- Explore 8 hands-on stations
- Choose from 3 activity levels at each station
- Create projects to take home
- Go at your own pace
- Reinforce classroom learning
No RSVP necessary. Contact Jody Buckley for more information.
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A Soup-er Deli-cious Picnic Lunch - Teacher & Staff Luncheon
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Please help show our appreciation to our SUPER teachers and staff with an appreciation lunch Friday, February 7 in the teachers lounge.
Consider signing up for an available item to bring or a shift to serve at the A Soup-er Deli-cious Picnic Lunch - Teacher & Staff Luncheon. You can view the complete sign up sheet and details at : A Soup-er Deli-cious Picnic Lunch - Teacher & Staff Luncheon.
If you have any questions contact: Janet Falkner or Courtney Gillette
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Save the Date - Friends and Family Day
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Save the Date!!! Friday, March 7 is Oak Knoll's 16th annual Friends and Family Day. Invite a friend or family member to come to school in the morning to get a glimpse of our campus and classrooms. Times for each grade level and details will be posted soon.
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Menlo-Atherton Parent Education Series
Award-winning Documentary Film: "In 500 Words or Less"
Thursday, February 6, 7 - 9:00 p.m.
Menlo-Atherton Performing Arts Center
Going to college is a rite of passage for many American high school students, but the process can be overwhelming: college fairs, SATs, tours, applications. And then there's the personal essay. How does a seventeen year old define herself to total strangers when she's only beginning to discover who she really is? And how can he or she be expected to do it in an essay of 500 words or less?
This honest film is a "must see" for any parent or student starting or looking ahead to the college application process. "In 500 Words or Less" takes you inside the lives of four very different students as they spend their last year with their families trying to figure out who they are and who they want to be. The documentary serves as a portrait of four of the nearly 1.5 million families who go through this process each year. While race, geography and socio-economic status affected how they got here, their stories converge as they all juggle acceptance, rejection, decision-making and letting go.
"In 500 Words or Less" is highly recommended by NACAC, the National Association for College Admission Counseling and featured at a recent national conference.
Ticket Registration: https://in500wordsorless2014ma.eventbrite.com/
Admission is FREE and M-A Parent Education Series events are sponsored by the Menlo-Atherton PTA and the Sequoia Healthcare District. A great family event!
For more information, please contact Charlene Margot, Parent Education Series Program Director (650.868.0590)
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Hillview-sponsored Parent Ed Monthly Series
My Digital TAT2 - Parenting the Media Generation
Erica Pelavin and Gloria Moscowitz-Sweet
Wednesday, February 12 @ 6:30 pm in the Hillview PAC
Our kids are "Digital Natives" -- they have grown up in a world of online access and ever changing media devices. Do you wonder how to teach your child responsibility and ethics online, how to ensure they are aware of their actions, and how to best parent them in the digital age? Recommended for anyone interested in an overview of the digital landscape and learning about thoughtful ways to navigate media with your children.
Hillview is providing free childcare at these events. Click here for the complete Speaker Series program. If you have any questions, email Jessica Raines.
For a complete listing of all the parent education events in and around our community, please visit the district's ParentEd webpage.
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Join the MPAEF Board or Nominate a Friend
Nominations Due February 2
The MPAEF is currently welcoming nominations for new members to our 2014-2015 Board.
Working with parents, local businesses, community members, and the District, the MPAEF raises money to pay for high-quality teachers, a comprehensive educational program, and teaching innovation beyond what is possible with public dollars alone.
This is a rewarding opportunity to work as a team with volunteers from across the school district's four schools.
For more information, or to submit nominations, please email MPAEF Secretary Sara Richter. Nominations are requested by February 2.
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Sports fan, wine spectator, or adventurer
Donate to the auction today
Destinations, Adventures and Getaways
Give district families or couples the opportunity to take a break by spending time in a place you find special. A condo by the beach, a cabin in the woods, a salt box by the ocean -- all places welcome! Your generosity will benefit not only all our kids but also a family needing a getaway. Work personally with the winning bidder on a mutual time or set your own dates. An escape item is an easy way to make a significant donation to the district, while sharing the joys of your special place.
Sporting Events and Memorabilia
Donate your box seats, courtside seats, or a trip to Augusta, all to raise money for our students and our schools! Accepting Giants, Sharks, and 49ers tickets, plus tickets to PGA tournaments or Grand Slam tennis events! Link a district family into a round of golf at one of the prestigious courses or clubs in the Bay Area! Donate unique memorabilia as a great way to share the passion of sports and raise money for stronger schools!
Exceptional Wines and Wine Experiences
Open up the riches of our region by offering up a unique bottle of wine or a wine experience. Create a personal trip to a vineyard for a couple or a group or fill their wine bar with elite vintages. Exclusive wine clubs offer award winning wines and champagnes, so donate a case or two from your membership. Bring enjoyment, cultural adventure and appreciation to district families and raise money for our schools!
To Donate: Please contact Karen Dearing or complete our online donation form here!
Need ideas for what to donate? View last year's auction catalog here.
The deadline for submitting auction items is February 14!
And mark your calendars for Saturday April 5, 2014 at the Sharon Heights Golf and Country Club for A Night in Monte Carlo! See you in April!
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The Friends of the Menlo Park Library. Will host a used book sale on Saturday, February 1 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This is a special sale of overstocked books. Art, biography, cooking, history, literature, math, science and other non fiction categories will be featured. No children's books will be available. Prices start at $1. If you can not attend this sale, please drop by the Friends Bookstore located inside the library and open during library hours. It is restocked daily with books for all ages and interests. All proceeds benefit the Menlo Park Library and Belle Haven Library.
The Menlo-Atherton High School Dance Team Show and Fundraiser. Saturday, February 1, 6 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center. Please support the Menlo-Atherton High School Dance Team by attending the Eleventh Annual M-A Dance Team Show and Fundraiser. It's an entertaining and upbeat performance that families will surely enjoy. Both our Varsity and JV dance teams promise an outstanding collection of dance performances including hip-hop, jazz, lyrical, and ballet. For more information click here.
New School Design: Have Your Say. February 11, 6:00PM. The MPCSD Board of Education will vote on the final schematic design for the new grade 3-5 school in the Willows neighborhood. This Regular scheduled Board meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m. at the District Office TERC building, 181 Encinal Avenue, Atherton. Everyone in the community is invited to attend the meeting, and/or to give their input on the design via email. You can see the full presentation from the January 7 Board meeting here. Please send any input to facilitiesinput@mpcsd.org.
Mavericks Youth Water Polo. Menlo Swim and Sport welcomes Brenda Villa, the most decorated female water polo player ever, as the new Head of Mavericks Water Polo. Girls and Boys 12U and 14U teams forming now, register here today!
Flag Football league for children aged 4 to 15. April 6. Play Flag Football offers youth flag football leagues for children aged 4 to 15. We have 20 convenient Bay Area locations, including Palo Alto and Redwood City. Our spring league begins April 6th and runs through June 8th. The cost to participate is $150 and includes all required equipment. The deadline to register is March 15th. For more information, please visit our website.
For more information on events/opportunities listed above or events listed in prior newsletters, visit the District's Community Links page. |
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Please submit announcements and flyers to newsletter@oakknollschool.com for Oak Knoll events. For the Community Corner, send submissions to communitynews@mpcsd.org.
The deadline for both email addresses is by noon on the Wednesday prior to publication date. Guidelines for submission are available online.
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To read past Oak Knoll PTO newsletters, please visit our archives.
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