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Messages from Mrs. Kunze
Course selections for next year
It is hard to believe that it is time to start thinking about next year. Please mark your calendar for the appropriate grade level informational parent meeting.
Tuesday, Feb. 11th at 6:30pm - Rising into 8th grade parents in auditorium
Thursday, Feb. 20th at 6:30pm - Rising into 7th grade parents in auditorium
Monday, Feb. 24th at 6:30pm - Rising into 6th grade parents in auditorium
Bartram Trail High School will be at Swiss Point March 3rd & 4th to register students for next year. You will receive a letter in the mail from Bartram. Creekside has not confirmed a date yet, but they will register students at Swiss around the same time.
New computers for Mrs. Campbell
The 55 new computers were installed Thursday afternoon for the 6th grade computer course. Thank you to all of the 6th graders for their patience while we worked with the district to improve the server before the decision was made to replace the machines. There should be no issues with running any software now!
Congratulations Vocal Solo & Ensemble Students
On Saturday, February 8 the following students attending the District 4 Middle School Solo and Ensemble adjudication in Voice. Congratulations to the following students for their placements in solo performances:
Superior Excellent
Ashton Horton Kenna Green
Paige Daniels Britni Hodge
Julia Goricki
Connor Hayes
Aime Yelvington
Sophie-Anne jennings
Amrita Sethumadhavan
Large Ensemble-Superior with Who Can Sail?
Kenna Green, Sophie-anne Jennings, Aime Yelvington, taylor Benn, Connor Hayes, Zachary Jackson, Britni Hodge, Brianna O'Rouke, Sydney Leiser, Amrita Sethumadhaven, Brooke Parker, Erica Martin
Large Ensemble- Superior with The Silence and the Song
Ashton Horton, Rebecca Jaeger, Laurel Howell, Lauren Bondy, Isis Green, Paige Daniels, Taylor Friedman, Savannah Rooney
Congratulations Band Students
Congratulations to our band students who performed at the Florida Bandmasters Association Solo and Ensemble Festival last weekend! Over 60 SPMS students performed solos, duets, and larger ensembles and received Superior and Excellent ratings!
Congratulations to our Jazz Ensemble who also went off campus to be judged twice last week! They performed at the Koger-Matteson Jazz Festival at the University of North Florida, and again at the Florida Bandmasters Association District Jazz Adjudication. They did a great job! We are so proud of our young musicians!
BTHS Now Accepting AVID Applications
Bartram Trail High School is now accepting applications for rising 9th graders to the AVID College Prep program. To obtain additional information and apply to the BTHS AVID College Prep Program: Visit the BTHS AVID website http://www-bths.stjohns.k12.fl.us/avid/. Complete the Online Application and schedule a time block for your face-to face interview. All interviews will be conducted on February 18, 2014. Questions may be directed to Mrs. Thompson at thompst@stjohns.k12.fl.us
Rotary Community Family Fun Event
The Rotary Club of Bartram Trail presents the Rotary Community Family Fun Event celebrating 10 years of service above self in St. Johns on Saturday, February, 22 from 1-5 p.m. at the Creekside High School stadium. This family fun day will include a laser maze, hamster balls, entertainment arena and more. Funds raised support Rotary community service projects such as Teacher of the Quarter recognition, Creeks Athletic Field of Dreams, St. Augustine Youth Services Boys Home, Rotary Youth Leadership programs among many others.
Attention 8th grade Parents
February 14 Invitation Letters Mailed to Each Student (Each high school mails out invitations to all applicants to join.)
February 14 Acceptance Link Opens (applicants must accept the invitation online - ONLY ACCEPT ONE school's invitation)
February 23 Deadline to Accept the Invitation is midnight February 23, 2014.
July 1 Last day to appeal
Donations for new computer lab
A special Raider Rap was sent requesting donations to purchase computers, tables & chairs for a computer lab for a new 7th grade course for next year. We had money saved for the computers, but we have to use this money to replace the computers in the 6th grade lab. We currently have an N-computing system that can not handle the flash and animation that the software requires. The computers are freezing and students are losing work. Replacement stand alone computers have been ordered for Mrs. Campbell's computer lab. We want to thank the students for their patience. We will work as quickly as possible to resolve the issues. Now, we need to raise funds for the 60 computers needed for the new lab. If you know of any business that could donate, please ask. All donations are tax deductible. The total cost needed is $50,000.00, which is possible if 500 families or businesses donate $100. Thank you in advance for supporting Swiss Point MS.
Variety Show Performance
You are invited to the 2014 SPMS Variety Show!!!!
When: February 20th, 2:30 pm. Must have a pre-purchased ticket
February 21st, 7:00 pm. Tickets can be pre-purchased or purchased at the door.
Where: SPMS Auditorium
Cost: $5.00. Tickets will be on sale during lunch beginning February 18th.
Benefits: Dreams Come True to sponsor a "Dream" for a child with a life-threatening illness
Featuring: Singing, Dancing, Guitar, Piano, Violin, Comedy and Rock Bands
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PTSO Information
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Join Us for the Next PTSO Meeting
Thursday, March 13 , 2014 at 9:15 am. Put it on your calendar now! PTSO is working on some fun new ideas for the Spring semester and you're going to want to be in the know. Looking for highly energized and fun parents who want to help make SPMS the best it can be. See you then!
Want to Stay in the Know?
Besides the Raider Rap (which you absolutely MUST read!) PTSO has three other ways to keep you informed of upcoming dates and big plans.
*Sign up for the PTSO newsletter
*Click here to check out the PTSO webpage
Business Partners
H&R Block on CR 210. Raise money for SPMS by having H&R Block prepare your personal income taxes. For every new client, H&R Block will donate $20 to SPMS. Our business partner at the 210 location (Johns Creek Shopping Plaza, 2849 CR 210 West) will match that donation so you get your taxes done and SPMS gets $40. Win-win! Contact H&R Block at 904-230-8080 with questions.
Box Top, Campbell Soup & Tyson News
Continue cutting those labels! Be sure to check the expiration dates on each label. Please place your labels in a zip lock bag or an envelope with the student's name, grade and homeroom teacher's name listed. Our next contest will be here before you know it!
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Guidance News
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Guidance Counselors
Barbara Seaton-6th grade and 7th graders with last names beginning with A-J.
Tanya Moseley- 7th graders, last name ending in K-Z and the entire 8th grade.
Moseley's Corner
8th Grade Students and Parents:
If you get accepted into an academy, you have to "Accept" the invitation on-line by February 23rd.
If you are attending Bartram Trail High school next year and are interested in applying for the AVID program, please register on-line at http://www-bths.stjohns.k12.fl.us/avid/ by Friday, February 14th. AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a college preparatory program designed to increase academic success and college-readiness skills. Students interested should have a strong desire to improve their skills and plan for college courses (FCAT levels of 2's, 3's, and 4's). Please contact Mrs. Thompson at BHTS for more info at thompst@stjohns.k12.fl.us
Seaton's Corner
Valentine's Day is a busy flurry of the happy exchange of candies, cards, balloons, and gifts. Just don't forget the "freebies", which are always the BEST! Those things, which are free, are always the most memorable and heartfelt. I encourage you to share with your children this Valentine's weekend some of your warmest memories when you were growing up. In most cases, those memories didn't involve money at all. They may be happy times with your old friends, helpful advice given to you by a grandparent, the time your sibling actually stood up for you and you were shocked, the time your favorite teacher made that special effort to help you out, an honest act by a stranger, or when you realized what a true friend really is. Help make some warm memories with your children this Valentine's Day!
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SAC News
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School Advisory Council
Switzerland Point Middle School
Next Meeting: Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Room #725
As always, this is a public meeting and all are welcome to attend.
Click here to view the minutes from the September meeting.
Click here to view the minutes from the October meeting.
Click here to view the minutes from the November meeting.
Click here to view the minutes from the December meeting.
Click here to view the minutes from the February meeting.
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From the Nurse
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Licensed Practical Nurse
547-8628
beccarj@stjohns.k12.fl.us
Students Asked to Know Phone Numbers
Parents,could you help us out in the front office? When students use the front office phones and the clinic phone they do not know their home number,parent's cell number or work number. We spend countless hours each week looking up your numbers in the computer and in the emergency card books. Please ask your child this weekend if they know your numbers by memory and work with them on memorizing these numbers or at least writing them down in their planners. This would be greatly appreciated by the front office staff.
Current 6th grade parents! NEVER TOO EARLY!
It is not too early to start preparing for your child's 7th grade immunization requirement. As soon as they have their 11th birthday they can get their Tdap shot. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to call me. This school year we had 108 students that did not have their Tdap two weeks before school was to start! Please don't wait till the last minute! This shot must be documented on a Florida Certification of Immunization.
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Raider Band News
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Our Raider Band program at SPMS is growing so fast!!! We have over 400 students placed in 5 different bands (beginning, Jazz, Concert, Symphonic and Wind). We definitely need your help to make this band program the best ever. So, please support your Raider Band program:
Jazz Band for Next Year
Open to students who have at least one year of band on the alto sax, tenor sax, bari sax, trumpet, trombone, baritone or percussion. These students must be in a band class in addition to jazz band class. There are openings for piano, electric bass and electric guitar. Must be able to read music but do not have to be from a band class. Auditions will be after school on Monday and Tuesday, February 24th and 25th from 2:00-3:00 pm in the band room. results will be announced on Thursday, February 27. There is a limit of 28 students in the class. Any questions or concerns, email Mrs. Zentz at zentzl@stjohns.k12.fl.us
Dunkin' Donuts Coffee Fundraiser
The SPMS band will be participating in a Dunkin' Donuts Pound of Coffee Fundraiser. Each pound of coffee will sell for $9. Selling period is from February 13-March 3 or 4. Click here to view extensive flyer with more information and actual order sheet.
Bozard Oil Change Vouchers for $20 each
SPMS BBA is partnering with Bozard Ford and is offering $20 vouchers for FREE OIL CHANGE, VACUUM & CAR WASH in support of our Band Boosters. This is a great deal!!!! All makes/models are welcome (diesel & European models may cost extra)!!!! Please contact Débora McCarty at rdmccart10@comcast.net if you would like to purchase a voucher and support our Raider Band. Vouchers are good through June 2014.
Click here to view flyer.
SPMS Band Boosters Fundraising
Monday, February 3rd, March 31st and May 5th at Firehouse Subs (210 and SR 13)
From 5:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
Firehouse will donate 20% of proceeds to our band. Please join us for a fun night with friends at Firehouse Subs on SR 13 and 210. Make sure to bring the attached flyer so you can be counted!! You can just show it on your phone as well! (Flyer to be attached after break)
Click here
2014 PLAYERS - Get tickets NOW!
Our band has the unique opportunity to sell a specially-created discounted Good Any One Day Grounds ticket for $45 (regularly priced Daily Grounds tickets are $58 and day-specific)
- Chip In tickets are valid for any one day of the 2014 THE PLAYERS
- Good Any One Day Grounds tickets are not available for purchase by the general public after December 31, 2013
- Promotion period for Chip in for Youth tickets is October 28, 2013 through April 18, 2014
- $25 from each ticket sold will be donated back to our organization
You can purchase tickets online through the Chip in for Youth website: www.chipinforyouth.com
Use our special code: SPMS
Or you can send this FLYER with your check written to SPMS BBA and we will send you your tickets with your student.
Click here to view flyer.
Raider Band Tumbler for $10 each
Our special Raider Band Tumbler is available to all parents at Swiss Point. A great gift for any occasion! Contact Débora McCarty at rdmccarty10@comcast.net
Click here to view the SPMS Band Tumbler Flyer
Thank you for supporting the SPMS Raider Band program!
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Daily Rotation & Events
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Week of February 17, 2014
Monday, February 17th- No School for Teachers/Students- President's Day
Tuesday, February 18th- Black Day
Road Raiders, 2-3:30 pm
Rehearsal for Musical, 2-4:30 pm, Drama room
Variety Show Dress Rehearsal, 2-6:00 pm, Auditorium
Wednesday, February 19th- Silver Day - Early Release
Variety Show Dress Rehearsal, 1-5:00 pm, Auditorium
FCA General Meeting, 1-2:30, Patio
Volleyball, 5:30 pm versus LPA at home in SPMS Gym
Thursday, February 20th- Black Day
Character Counts Luncheon, during lunches, Cafeteria
Road Raiders, 2-3:30 pm
Variety Show Performance, 2:30 - 3:30 pm, Auditorium
Rising 7th Grade Parent Meeting, 6:30 pm, Auditorium
Friday, February 21th- Silver Day
Variety Show Performance, 7:00 pm, Auditorium
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Policy Reminders
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Cell Phones
On page 23 of the St. Johns County Student Code of Conduct there is an entire section on cell phones. Paragraph 1 states: Students may possess cellular telephones and other wireless communication devices at school, on buses, and at school function. However, they must be turned off, stored in student's backpack, purse, locker or vehicle. The device shall not be used during the school day without administrative approval or on school buses to and from school. Failure to comply may result in the device being confiscated. Repeated failure to comply will be considered defiance of school rules. Paragraph 3 states: When there is reasonable suspicion that a student has used a cell phone or wireless communicative device in violation of the Code of Conduct or other school rules, or for an unlawful purpose, the school administration may review the phone's call log, voice messages, text messages, photographs and any other applications to furtherance of its investigation of the suspected violation.
We have communicated this district policy to the students every quarter in our behavior expectation assemblies. We have communicated that their cell phone may not be used on campus at all, which includes in the hall or outside at dismissal or upon arrival to school. We will no longer ask a child to just put their cell phone away. The phone will be confiscated. Students who are not feeling well need to go to the clinic to call their parent not call or send a text from their cell phone. PLEASE talk to your child about following school rules. We have a phone in the main office that students are allowed to use. Thank you for your support.
Do you have a New Cell or Home Phone Number....maybe new email address?
Parents, if you have a new home number, work number, cell number or e-mail address, please notify Norma Miller in Guidance. Contact her at 547-8626 or
millern@stjohns.k12.fl.us
Access to the building
We have been informed by the district that ALL parents that plan on entering the building during the day before or after school ,even if students are not in the building, need to be cleared. We are asking that EVERY parent or guardian that might be on campus for a conference, IEP meeting, 504 meeting or for anything else, PLEASE click on the link below to register for access.
Click here to go to the School Access Form
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Athletics
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SPMS Volleyball News
This week the girls beat Fruit Cove and Landrum Middle School. The girl's record stands at 6 - 2. The boy's lost to Fruit Cove and beat Landrum Middle School. The boy's record stands at 4 - 4. Next week the Raiders will play Liberty Pines at home on Wednesday. Raiders are #1.
SJMSAA Baseball Team
The boys baseball teams have started practicing and a schedule of games will be published in upcoming Raider Raps.
SJMSAA Golf
Golf tryouts have been completed and the team has been chosen. Good Luck this season!
SJMSAA Softball
Tryouts are completed and the girls are preparing for an awesome season!
SJMSAA Tennis
Tennis had tryouts are complete. 35 students tried out and showed great talent. Good Luck this season and a huge thank you to all the kids who tried out.
SPMS Road Raiders
Road Raiders will have practice on Tuesday and Thursdays from 2-3:30 pm. Please check Edmodo for updates. The code is: btg6t7. Contact Mrs. Piscitello at piscite@stjohns.k12.fl.us if you have any questions or concerns.
SPMS Winterguard
Performance Dates:
Feb 22 - Lyman HS (Longwood, FL)
Mar 8 - Freedom HS (Orlando, FL)
Mar 15 - Cypress Creek HS (Orlando,FL)
Mar 22 - Fletcher HS (Neptune Beach, FL)
Mar 28/29 - Championships (Daytona Beach, FL)
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Student Corner
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Tutoring Club 3rd Quarter Sessions Available
Click here to view the SPMS 3rd quarter flyer form the Tutoring Club.
Dreams Come True
The next Dreams Come True meeting will be Monday, February 10 from 2:00-3:00 pm in the Multi-Purpose Room. The remaining meetings are scheduled for Monday, March 3rd, Monday March 31st and Monday, April 7th.
Master Calendar for 2014-2015
The master calendar for the 2014-2015 school year was approved at a recent School Board meeting. Click here to print.
*Please note that semester exams will be given the week before winter break just like this year. PLEASE do not schedule vacation during exam time.
Honor Card Businesses
Last week report cards were distributed. Students who received all As or all As or Bs, received an honor card. Click here to view all the businesses and their offers.
Remember of check Edmodo for homework assignments.
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Student's Corner- Just for 8th Graders
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Accept a Program of Choice offer on-line by February 23, 2014 at www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/academies
Found Missing Items from the Washington DC Trip
There is a large bin of lost and found from the 8th grade Washington DC trip in the clinic. I have gloves,single and pairs,hats,scarves,jackets,tennis shoes,ac/dc data charger and ear buds. Please have your student come claim their items!
Remember to check Edmodo for homework assignments.
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Media Center News
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Congratulations to Emma Geiger, Lexi Smith, Amanda Higley, Frederique Victor and Sarah Kroehler for winning the SPMS Battle of the Books competition which was held on Thursday afternoon in the Media Center. Great job ladies and a big thank you to everyone who participated!
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Lunch Menu
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Week of February 17th
Monday- No school
Tuesday- Mini Corn Dogs, Mini Cheese Ravioli, Garlic Breadstick, Spinach & Romaine Salad with LF Dressing Dunk Cup, Corn, Mixed Fruit, Ketchup, Mustard, Variety of Milk
Wednesday- Giorgio Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza, Fajita Chicken Salad, Garlic Breadstick, Carrot & Cucumber Dippers with LF Dressing Dunk Cup, Sweet Peas, Fresh Apple Slices, Variety of Milk
Thursday- Hamburger, Homestyle Chicken Sandwich, Roasted Potato Wedges, Baked Beans, Pears, Lettuce, Tomato, & Pickle, Ketchup, Mustard & Mayo, Variety of Milk
Friday- Chicken Nuggets, Hot Dog, Cherry Tomato & Celery Dippers with LF Dressing Dunk Cup, Sweet Potato Puffs, White Wheat Roll, Choice of 100% Juice, Dipping sauce, Ketchup, Mustard, Variety of Milk
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From the District
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This new section will contain information coming from the St. Johns County School Board. Visit their website at www.stjohns.k12.fl.us
Superintendent's Weekly Review- 2/13/2014
The Superintendent's Weekly Review for this week is now posted at [ http://blogs.stjohns.k12.fl.us/supt/ ]http://blogs.stjohns.k12.fl.us/supt/. The newsletter can also be found on the home page of the St. Johns County School District website at
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us
Hardship Waiver Information for 2014-2015
Students were given a letter to bring home from the district for the purpose of providing updated and new information regarding the Hardship Out of Zone Waiver process and the recent changes in Attendance Zones in our School District. Click here to view the letter. The Hardship Transfer application process will begin on Tuesday, February 18th when the new application will be live on the District's website.
PACT Town Hall Meeting
On February 27, PACT will be hosting our annual Town Hall Meeting at Nease High School. The keynote speaker is Donovan Darius, former Jacksonville Jaguar. Donovan's theme is "Game Plan to Success". We will follow with a panel discussion with several local professionals discussing the impact of underage drinking and drug abuse.
The mission of PACT is: To make St. John's County a healthy, substance-free community through the reduction and prevention of alcohol and drug abuse by our youth by Prevention, Advocacy, Choices and Teamwork.
District School Happenings Calendar
Click here to view the December 2013/January 2014 School Happenings Calendar from the district
ESE Parent Survey
Click here for the Florida's 2013-2014 ESE Parent Survey. The web-based survey opens February 1, 2014 and ends May 31, 2014. Your feedback is important in helping the state and local school systems continue improving educational programs for children with special needs.
Redirecting Children's Behavior
Click here to view information regarding the Redirecting Children's Behavior course offered by the Student Services Department.
Legislative Update
The St. Johns County Legislative Update for this week is posted at http://blogs.stjohns.k12.fl.us/legupdates/2013/11/08/legislative-update-week-of-november-4/
Character Counts Six Pillars 6K Run/3K Walk
Character Counts in St. Johns County Six Pillars 6K/3K Walk will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2014 at Palencia Elementary School. Click here to view a flyer for more information.
Chocolate & Beyond- A Sweet Way to Support Volunteers
Chocolate and Beyond, a celebration of chocolate, desserts, and other culinary sensations, will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2014 from 2 - 4 p.m. at First Coast Technical College, Building C in St. Augustine. Guests will enjoy tasty samples from some of the area's finest restaurants and specialty shops. A silent auction, raffle, and contests will also be part of this fun and exciting afternoon.
Hosted by The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of St. Johns County, proceeds from Chocolate and Beyond benefit the volunteer program, and young students through book purchases. Tickets are $10.00 each and can be purchased on the RSVP website, www.rsvpstjohns.com or in person at Whetstone Chocolates (King Street and Anastasia Blvd locations), Cold Cow Ice Cream, and TD Bank in St. Augustine. Call RSVP at 904-547-3945 for more information or click here to view flyer.
The District May Be Able to Help
Are you living in a shelter, motel, vehicle, or campground; on the street; in abandoned buildings; or living with friends or relatives to to an economic hardship, are you a teenager and living independently or with someone other than a parent or legal guardian; then you may be eligible to receive services provided under the McKinney-Vento Act. Contact your school Computer Operator or your local Homeless Liaison-Mr. Chris Stone @ 547-7589 for more details. You may also visit: http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/depts/student/homeless/
Parents as Partners
Click here to view the Parents as Partners, the St. Johns County School District ESE Department Newsletter. It contains detailed information regarding events, contact information and more.
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First Coast Kids Triathlon
Click here to view flyer regarding the First Coast Kids Triathlon held on May 17-18.
In His Image Special Needs Conference
On May 3, 2014, Fruit Cove Baptist Church is hosting an In His Image Special Needs Conference from 9:00 am- 3:00 pm. Please click here to view flyer with additional information.
Are you wanting to quit smoking?
Then take advantage of a FREE 2-hour "Tools to Quit Smoking" class at the Wildflower Clinic in St Augustine. This class is offered Monday, Feb 3rd,~from 5:30-7:30pm and includes a free workbook, water bottle, stress ball, and 4 weeks of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (patch, lozenge, or gum). Call 904-482-0189 to register! Click here for more information!
KidzArt Presents: Friday Night Teen Art Workshops!
Join us for our new TeenzArt workshops at River of Life United Methodist Church 2600 Race Track Road! Our art enriched "workouts" are packed full of challenging design projects and fun surprises intended to motivate students at this age level, and to push their creative potential to the max! Painting, drawing, printmaking, collage, and more! Workshops are from 6:30-8:00pm and are $20-$22 depending on the project scheduled. View our schedule online and view samples of our planned projects! First class is Friday, September 20th. Register for classes online at /www.simpson.kidzart.com or call (904) 287-8603
Camp Composition
Camp Composition, a writing camp for 4th through 10th graders, will take place at UNF over the course of six Saturdays in January and February 2014 (immediately prior to the FCAT writing exam). Camp Composition will be led by local lead area teachers who specialize in writing instruction. These teachers will work with specific writing teams on a variety of topics, including the introduction of weekly prompts and feedback to each individual student. Stress reduction strategies will also be taught to students by an expert. For more information and to register go to http://www.unf.edu/coehs/celt/Camp_Composition.aspx
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