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Tickets for "Seussical Jr." Now On Sale!
 Tickets for the Middle School production of "Seussical Jr." on Wednesday, April 13 are now available here. Seating is reserved and tickets are $10 for students and $12 for adults. Curtain is at 7:30 p.m. with the auditorium opening for seating at 7 p.m. The show is just over one hour in length and is perfect entertainment for all ages.
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The Innovators Institute: Where Big Ideas Begin
By Jamey Everett, Lower School Technology Integrator and Co-Director of the Innovators Institute
Plans for this year's Innovators Institute, designed  for students entering grades 9-12, are quickly taking shape and there is still time to sign up for this exceptional opportunity. We are pleased to announce some exciting experiences that students won't want to miss. During our first week, all Innovators participate in a creativity and innovation bootcamp. Students will experience workshops and challenges that get them thinking like an entrepreneur. Using many of the training principles of the Central Intelligence Agency, combined with the principles of the Institute of Design at Stanford, Innovators will engage in collaborative, critical thinking challenges, learn how to become empathy explorers, and understand the value of rapid prototyping. The goal for our first week is to open students' minds to new ideas, ask why about the world around them, and imagine creative solutions to unique problems. Plans are currently being made for all Innovators to attend the Indianapolis Innovation Showcase. Held at Dallara Indycar Factory, students will experience what it's like to pitch a startup concept in a competitive forum. The Innovation Showcase is an event that connects fundable companies with capital sources; attendees connect with the entrepreneurial energy in Indiana. Our Innovators see first hand the good, the bad, and the ugly of entrepreneurship. Human stories are at the heart of design, innovation and entrepreneurship. What better way to learn about the resilience and creativity that it takes to launch something new than to talk to the people who do it everyday? Throughout the three week program we'll bring back many of our inspirational speakers from last year to share their business experiences with our Innovators. Last year's guests included Max Yoeder of Lesson.ly, Aman Brar of Apparatus, and Jason Williams, the Executive Director of Centric Indy, a local innovation network seeking to drive recognition of our city as a global innovation center. We're also generating a list of new entrepreneurial minds from a variety of for-profit and nonprofit industries, including medicine, engineering, art, and agriculture. Innovators can also look forward to visiting some of Indy's most enterprising, up-and-coming businesses. Last year we toured, and learned from business leaders at, Studio Science, Speakeasy, Smallbox, 3D Parts Manufacturing, and DeveloperTown. We'll end our week with our very own Innovators Institute Showcase, in which students will pitch their entrepreneurial designs to industry leaders, community members, and parents. Showcase competitors will win 1-to-1 time with business leaders so they can continue to develop their idea. Applications are now being accepted, and financial assistance is available. There is also a Junior Innovators Institute, focused on computer science, available for students entering grades 6-8. Click here for more information. The Innovators Institute is just one of the many summer programs offered by Summer @PT. Click here to view all the programs available for students of all ages.
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Global Scholars Presentations Continue Through April
Seniors participating in Park Tudor's Global Scholars program are continuing to present their research projects. These presentations are open to the entire Park Tudor community to attend, and represent the capstone of this challenging two-year program. The students are covering a broad range of topics including arts, legal issues, technology, science and medicine, and social issues. The full schedule of presentations is available here.
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A Word on Wellness: Homework Guide for Parents
By Phyllis Shea, Ed.S., ABSNP, NCSP, School Psychologist
As spring approaches (slowly), children would rather spend more time outside playing than inside doing homework or studying. While there are many positions and arguments regarding homework, Peg Dawson, a psychologist with the Center for Learning and Attention Disorder, has written that surveys show parents overwhelmingly support homework because it gives them a way to monitor the quality of their children's education. Research supports the benefits of homework and that parental involvement has a strong positive effect (Van Voorhis, 2003; Xu, 2004).
The general rule of thumb is that children spend 10 minutes of homework for each grade level. If your child is consistently spending more than 10 minutes per grade level at night, then parents are encouraged to first talk with their child's teacher(s) about the situation. Here are some suggestions for parents to help children of all ages with homework. Strategies for Supporting Homework
Check in with your children daily. Parents are great motivators and can share strategies that may help with setting goals, sustaining attention, and staying positive. As children get older, parents move to a more minimal yet still supportive role. Talk with your child about what homework they have, upcoming tests or projects and ask them to share what strategies they will use to complete assignments or study. Establish clear homework routines. Although it is best to establish daily homework routines early in elementary school, it is never too late to establish or review homework routines. o Make sure you identify a specific location - preferably free from distractions (no cell phones or extra electronics) - a dining room table is sometimes an ideal place because it also allows for supervision. o Have all materials needed. o Decide on the best time and try to stick to that schedule (e.g., right after school, just before or after dinner). o Make plans for completing homework (i.e., review agenda/planner, plan what to do first, estimate how long it will take to complete each task). Supervise but don't micromanage. The general rule of thumb is provide the minimum help necessary for the child to be successful. Help children establish and maintain organizational systems. Help your child keep their workspace neat. At the end of the homework session, homework should be placed in the appropriate folder and backpack. Establish a place to always put the backpack so that the mornings are not spent rushing around looking for school items (e.g., a hook by the back door, cubby by the garage door, etc.) Look for others to help. Parents may find it helpful to take turns supervising homework, alternating by nights or by subject matter. Use incentives. A simple incentive system may include giving children something to look forward to once homework is complete, building in breaks along the way (either after a set period of time or after a set amount of work is accomplished), and building in choice, such as the order in which they complete tasks. Discuss and remind children the benefits of homework completion and how they feel when tasks are accomplished (e.g., being prepared for the lesson, doing well on assessments, more time to play, etc.). It is always a good practice for parents and teachers to have clear communication. Parents can model appropriate ways to communicate and as children get older encourage them to communicate directly with their teachers. As always, if student's failure to complete homework consistently results in grades well below the student's potential, it might be helpful to discuss possible options (e.g., tutoring, academic coaching, etc.) with the teacher and the school psychologist. Recommended Resources: Dawson,P., & Guare, R (2008). Smart but scattered: The revolutionary "executive skills" approach to helping kids reach their potential. New York: Guilford Press.
Garriso, D.R. (2005). Ending the homework wars. Cameron Park, CA: leading Edge Press. U.S. Department of Education (2005). Helping your child with homework. Washington, DC: Author.
References: Dawson, P. (2010). Homework: A guide for parents. National Association of School Psychologists. Available here.
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History of WWII Trip Coming in July, 2017
As a follow up to two popular trips focused on WWII sponsored by Park Tudor in 2013 and 2014, in July 2017 there will be a custom tour to important WWII sites in England and France.
Because this trip is customized, it will appeal to a variety of travelers, including WWII aficionados, Anglo- and Francophiles, and those who want to explore something new and exciting involving language, art and culture. The trip has been tentatively scheduled for July 5-14, 2017. Because this is a custom trip, we must ideally have 25+ participants. The trip is primarily designed for adults (parents, faculty, alumni including PT class of 2017, and the community at large), but we will also consider upper class students (if space is available and their PT trip application has been approved. This trip is particularly well-suited for students who wish to practice their French language skills, love history, or have completed the WWII Military History elective in 2017.
Itinerary Highlights of the trip include sightseeing in London, followed by a trip to Caen where we will visit the Normandy beaches, see the Bayeux Tapestry, and visit the American Cemetery, among many other popular sites. From Caen, we will go to Paris for more sightseeing and a visit to Les Invalides, where we will see Napoleon's Tomb. For detailed information on the itinerary, click here.
Our tour number is: 1804376WM and Kathryn Lerch is the group leader. This trip is coordinated by EF Educational Tours, one of the premier groups working with both students and adults. It is possible for travelers to extend their trip on either end, or purchase the "land only" tour. For such "special travel" options or other questions regarding finances, contact EF Customer Service directly (800-665-5364). For More Information There will be an informational meeting on April 20, 2016 in US 229 at 6:00 p.m. Please contact Kathryn Lerch (klerch@parktudor.org, or 317-251-8661) or Gary Bender (gbender@parktudor.org or 317-415-2917) for more information about the trip or to RSVP for the informational meeting. All student applications for the trip must be approved by Mrs. Lerch. During the 2016-2017 school year, there will be monthly evening or weekend sessions which will include information about travel to England and France, but the focus will be military history topics related to the trip. All tour participants will receive a reading list, and there will be opportunities for group discussions. These meetings are encouraged for all adults, but required for students. It is imperative that everyone attend so that when we depart in July 2017, we will know one another and we will be ready to put our knowledge to work!
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Mrs. McIntosh's Class Helps the Community
Mrs. McIntosh's first grade class created 65 Easter baskets for the children living at Dayspring Center downtown. A family in her class, the Rayfords, donated the items to create the baskets and the first graders made them all. The empathy and compassion shown by the kids was extraordinary.
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Students and Faculty in the News
* Senior John Plewes has committed to play soccer for American University. Competing in the Patriot League, American has gone to the conference final 5 out of the past 7 years, with 8 NCAA tournament appearances.
* On Saturday, April 2, six Park Tudor students competed in a chemistry tournament at Washington University in St. Louis. The team members were Andrew Wu (freshman), Emily Sun (freshman), Andrew Chai (freshman), Allen Zhao (sophomore), Siddhu Peri (sophomore), and Michelle Zhu (junior). The competition has three individual rounds, one team round, and one relay round. Allen Zhao ranked #4, #2, and #4 in the three individual rounds respectively. Andrew Wu ranked #7, and #3 in the 2nd and 3rd individual rounds. Siddhu Peri ranked #6 in the 3rd individual round. For overall individuals, Allen Zhao was number 3 and Andrew Wu was number 5. In the team round, Park Tudor ranked third. For the relay round Park Tudor ranked second. The Park Tudor team ranked second for the overall Sweepstakes team ranking, which is a combination of individual scores, the team round, and the relay round.
* Freshman Anjali Mirmira placed 4th in the Scholastic Girls Indiana State Chess competition held Saturday, April 2. Anjali was also recently named in the top 100 lady chess players, age 15, by the United States Chess Federation. Anjali will be competing in two upcoming national level chess tournaments, the National Junior High Championships (K-9) in Indianapolis on April 15 and 16 and the Continental Chess Association Girls National Championships in Chicago, April 22-24.
* Upper School Social Studies teacher Jeffrey Johnson served as a proposal evaluator for the National Council for the Social Studies 2016 Conference. Johnson reviewed proposals for psychology and history panels.
* Dr. Jan Guffin will exhibit his photographic works in a show entitled, "My World, Our World, The World" from April 4 - May 20 at Second Presbyterian Church (7700 N. College Ave.). Gallery hours vary; please confirm it is open before you visit by calling 317-253-6461.
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Upcoming Events
PT Challenge
Saturday, April 9
5:30 p.m.
Does Upper School have a team that can win the traveling trophy from the Middle School? Let's find out! Lace up your running shoes and grab your friends, and join us for the Annual PT Challenge! This Amazing Race style event combines exciting site activities, with trivia questions and lots of racing about the PT campus. This event encourages you to gather friends and create a team of up to 8 people . CASH prizes are awarded for Overall Winner and Division Winners along with the coveted PT Challenge Trophy! Afterwards, enjoy a pizza and bingo party to crown the winners. Lower School and Middle School teams must have at least one parent per team. Any questions should be directed to co-chairs, Susan Richards, suserichard@icloud.com or Paul Miller, lmiller@att.net.
Women's Networking Event at Traders Point Creamery
Tuesday, April 12
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Traders Point Creamery
9101 Moore Road
Zionsville, IN 46077
The Park Tudor Women's Network brings women together to provide connections, learning experiences and opportunities to grow in meaningful ways. Park Tudor recognizes the power of women and strives to engage and encourage women as critical partners of the school. All Park Tudor moms, moms of alumni, alumnae, grandmothers, faculty, and wives of alumni are invited to join us! Traders Point Creamery is an organic, 100% grassfed dairy farm and artisan creamery in Zionsville, Indiana, owned by the Kunz family, Dr. Fritz Kunz '72 and Jane Elder Kunz '73. Join us for delicious appetizers from the Creamery's farm-to-table restaurant and other refreshments. Jane Kunz will educate us on organic farming and nutrition. RSVP here.
Middle School Musical - Seussical Jr.
Wednesday, April 13
7:30 p.m.
Ayres Auditorium
"Oh, the thinks you can think" when Dr. Seuss' best-loved characters collide and cavort in an unforgettable musical caper! Purchase tickets here.
Upper School Musical Theatre Students Perform at The Cabaret
Thursday, April 14
7:30 p.m.
The Cabaret at the Columbia Club
121 Monument Circle
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Students in Lamonte Kuskye's new Upper School Musical Theatre class will give an intimate cabaret performance atThe Cabaret, located in the historic Columbia Club on Monument Circle. Join us for a special evening of music and entertainment in one of the most beautiful venues in the city, known for hosting top Broadway, Jazz and international cabaret performers. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online here or by calling The Cabaret at 317-275-1169. For more information about The Cabaret, visit www.thecabaret.org.
Patriot Run/Walk for Grades 4 & 5
Friday, April 15
10:00 a.m.
Parents are welcome to participate, watch or assist with this 2-mile run for students in grades 4 & 5. The event will begin at 10:00 a.m.; traffic will be restricted in front of the Lower and Middle Schools during the run.
Upper School Instrumental Concert
Thursday, April 21
7:30 p.m.
Ayres Auditorium
Enjoy musical selections from all of Park Tudor's Upper School instrumental groups.
PTPA Spring Social Friday, April 22 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Wood Room Join the PTPA to socialize with fellow parents!
Dance Recital Sunday, April 24 2:00 p.m. Park Tudor dancers of all ages will perform in their annual recital.
 First Annual Pantherfest Booster Club Fundraising Dinner
Sunday, April 24
5:00 p.m.
Clowes Commons
Join the Booster Club and keynote speaker Yogi Ferrell '12 for a fundraising dinner in support of the Park Tudor athletic program. Yogi is a 2012 Park Tudor graduate and currently leads the IU Hoosiers basketball team. Yogi has been selected first team all-Big Ten, he is IU's all-time leader in assists, and is a candidate for the John Wooden Player of the Year award. There will be a meet and greet with Yogi prior to the dinner. Enjoy a buffet catered by Ruth's Chris featuring favorites like filet bites, chicken breast, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and cookies. All ages are welcome! Purchase tickets online. Several sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Doug Allen (dallen@parktudor.org or 415-2780) for more information.
Upper School Spring Choral Concert
Thursday, April 28
7:30 p.m.
Enjoy musical selections performed by all of Park Tudor's Upper School choral groups, including the Journeymen, Girls Ensemble, Park Tudor Singers, and Madrigals.
Park Tudor Scholarship 5k Fun Run
Saturday, April 30
8:30 a.m.
Park Tudor Campus
As part of Alumni Weekend April 29-30, we will once again hold a 5k cross-country run to benefit Park Tudor scholarships. Register here.
Distinguished Friends of the Arts Induction Ceremony honoring John Williams Saturday, April 30 4:30 p.m. Ayres Auditorium Join us in honoring John Williams, who retired in 2014 after 41 years as Director of Fine Arts and Upper School Choral Director at Park Tudor. This honor celebrates faculty members who, among other distinctions, have made significant contributions to the Fine and Performing Arts.
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Sports News: John Plewes Commits to Play Soccer; Sports Physicals for 2016-17
* Senior John Plewes has committed to play soccer for American University. Competing in the Patriot League, American has gone to the conference final 5 out of the past 7 years, with 8 NCAA tournament appearances.
* Each year, student-athletes in grades 6-12 must have an updated physical completed, along with all the proper paperwork, to be eligible to participate in summer workouts, open gyms, practices, and competitions. In looking ahead to the 2016-2017 athletic season, St. Vincent's is offering two opportunities to get your child's physical and paperwork completed. Please see the flyer for complete details and links to register. Sunday, May 15, 3:00-6:00 p.m. at 8227 Northwest Blvd. Sunday, July 10, 3:00-6:00 p.m. at 14455 Clay Terrace Blvd. If you are not able to attend either date, you must make an appointment with a physician to complete the physical and paperwork. Physicals can be completed and returned to the Athletic Office anytime after April 1. Student-athletes will remain ineligible until the physical forms are fully completed, signed, and returned to the Athletic Office.
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5X5 Art Salon Seeking Submissions
All members of the Park Tudor community (students, their families, faculty and staff, and alumni) are invited to submit work to the 5x5 Art and Writing Salon. This year's theme is "Opposites." The theme is optional, but can be used as a jumping-off point for interpretation. Pieces need to measure 5 inches in each direction, and can be in any medium. All pieces submitted by April 18 will be displayed in the Upper School during Alumni weekend (April 29-30), with a reading of original short poetry, prose, and non-fiction pieces on Saturday, April 30. Please find all the guidelines, including instructions for dropping off or mailing submissions here. If you are interested in participating in the reading or have any questions, please contact Laura Schroeder at lschroeder@parktudor.org or 317-415-2796.
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The Park Tudor Parents Association is hosting the annual Spring Social which is an adult-only event honoring the 2016 Senior Class Parents. It is the official kickoff of the graduation month! The Cocktail reception including a senior slide show is scheduled for Friday, April 22, 2016 from 6:00-7:30 pm in the Wood Room. Adult friends and family of seniors along with the PTPA community are invited to attend. Please RSVP to Katherine Dill, katherinedill@yahoo.com by April 14th so that the correct amount of champagne can be on hand for the toast to senior parents.
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April Statements Now Available
Your current statement is now available for viewing in your Park Tudor My Backpack account. Payment is due by Friday, April 29.
To determine if you have a balance due, click on the "Account Summary" tab. To see details of your balance, click on the "Statement" tab. Past statements also are available for review, and statements are printable from this screen. You may pay online by clicking on the "Pay Online" option in the lower left corner of the statement screen and completing the electronic payment information, or send payment by mail to:
Park Tudor School
P.O. Box 6069 - Dept. 105
Indianapolis, IN 46206-6069
Please call 415-2800 if you have any questions regarding your student's account. If you need assistance with My Backpack password or login, please call 415-2710 or email support@parktudor.org.
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Park Tudor School Mission
To create an inspiring college-preparatory learning environment, with exceptional educators and extraordinary opportunities, that prepares and motivates students to become balanced, confident, and resourceful lifelong learners.
Editor: Cathy Chapelle '87
Editorial Staff: Cassie Dull
Graphic Design & Layout: Stefanie Dean '05
The deadline for submissions to the Times is Monday at 9 a.m. for publication on Thursday. Because of the volume of submissions, we cannot guarantee publication in the same week, but date-sensitive information will receive priority.
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