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| Sunday, November 29, 2015 |
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The Paly Link is distributed on Sundays, except during school breaks and holidays. Changes will be highlighted as New/Updated/Corrected. To submit an article, see Submissions Guidelines. |
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Calendar
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Tuesday
| Dec. 1 | Winter Sports Mandatory Parents Meeting, 6:30pm, MAC (Paly) | |
Wednesday
| Dec. 2
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"The Well-Balanced Student" w/ Dr. Denise Pope, 7pm, MAC ( PTSA) | | Thursday | Dec. 3 | Volunteers Needed for Staff Holiday Lunch (PTSA) | Friday
| Dec. 4
| Paly Sports Boosters Christmas Tree Sale & Paly Gear Fundraiser, 3-8pm,
Snack Shack/Paly Football Field entrance (Paly) New
| Fri-Saturday
| Dec. 4-5 | Fiery Arts Winter Glass Sale, Inside Tower Bldg, 3-6pm (Paly) | | Sat-Sunday | Dec. 5-6 |
Paly Sports Boosters Christmas Tree Sale & Paly Gear Fundraiser, 3-8pm, Snack Shack/Paly Football Field entrance ( Paly) New | Saturday
| Dec. 5 | Paly Choirs' Madrigal Feaste, 2 pm, Jordan MP Room (Paly)
| | Sunday | Dec. 6 | Paly Choirs' Madrigal Feaste, 2 pm, Jordan MP Room (Paly)
| Thursday
| Dec. 10
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9th grade Parent Network Social, 7pm, Student Center ( PTSA) New | Thursday
| Dec. 10
| Come Celebrate our Great School with Treats on the Quad (PTSA)
| | Wednesday | Dec. 9 | MAC Boosters Meeting, 7pm, 368 Iris Way (Paly)
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PTSA and PTA Announcements
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Volunteers Needed for Staff Holiday Lunch
Thurs, Dec. 3
It's hard to believe that the holidays are upon us. Before we head off for winter break, come help with a special holiday lunch to thank our teachers for a their dedication to our teens. We're looking for bakers to help with the dessert buffet. Not a baker? Not to worry. Volunteers are needed in other ways too. Please volunteer for this special lunch here. Questions? Write to Cindy Roberts cinroberts@sbcglobal.net
Come Celebrate our Great School with Treats on the Quad
Thurs, Dec. 10
Parents are welcome to come join the fun as we treat our teens to treats. Let's celebrate the magnificent school year we've had so far with a casual social called Treats on the Quad. Parents are welcome to attend. Better yet, sign up to bring a treat or help with a few other volunteer jobs we have available. Hope to see all of you there. Questions? Write to Cindy Roberts cinroberts@sbcglobal.net
Challenge Success Team Seeks Student Input New
Dec. 1 and Dec. 8 during Tutorial/Lunch
As you may know, Paly teamed up with Challenge Success ( challengesuccess.org) last year in order to examine our school culture with respect to issues like homework, student well-being, cheating, stress, and other related topics. Kim Diorio and members of the Challenge Success team will be meeting with students during tutorial and lunch on December 1 and 8
in the 800 building in order to hear about their concerns and possible solutions to these concerns. Please encourage your child to attend and participate!
Challenge Success: "The Well-Balanced Student" Video Presentation with Dr. Denise Pope
Wed, Dec. 2, 7-9pm, Paly Media Arts Center.
Today's high-pressure, fast-paced culture can interfere with healthy child development. When we are too focused on test scores, performance, and grades, we may deny kids the time and energy they need to effectively tackle the demanding work of growing up. This workshop examines the tensions that can occur between students, parents, and educators over issues such as homework, grades, and the culture of competition.
In this video presentation, you will learn:
- How students today are coping- or not- with the academic pressure they face
- Ways you can reduce academic stress without sacrificing achievement or engagement in school
- Strategies to increase resilience, creativity, and well-being for your child
After the video presentation, breakout groups will be led by Paly staff, students, parents and other members of the Paly Challenge Success team.
For more information about this PTSA-sponsored education event, please contact Lori Buecheler at lori.buecheler@gmail.com, Dawn Billman at dawn_billman@yahoo.com or click here.
9th Grade Parent Network Social - December 10 New
Thurs, Dec. 10, 7-9:30pm, Paly Student Center
We will not have a meeting this Friday (Dec 4), but we will have a 9th grade parent social the following week, Thursday, December 10. The potluck will be 7 to 9:30 pm. We currently have the Paly Student Center, but we are also looking for a parent host if we can. We will send out more information on what to bring and final location. For more information, you can contact Karen Hickey ( kahickey@yahoo.com) or Daxue Xu ( daxuexu@hotmail.com). December Senior (2016) Parent Network meeting NewFriday, Dec 11, at 8:15 am, 1268 Martin AvenueThe topic: The Rules They Are a Changin': As your child slides into the final stretch of senior year, are your house rules changing? What are your curfews? Expectations re chores? Media use? Sleep? If we have time, we'll also hit on changing approaches to allowances and finances, otherwise that will be a separate session.
Latte Cart Coordinator and Volunteers Needed
Jan. 20, Mar. 16, Apr. 20
The PTSA provides for a Latte Cart vendor to come to Paly each month for faculty and staff. On four more of the Latte Cart days, parents provide treats to go with the coffee. This year's remaining dates are: Nov. 18, Jan. 20, Mar. 16, and Apr. 20 (all Wednesdays). At these events, parents provide treats for the faculty and staff beginning at 7:00 a.m. through 10:30 a.m. If you would like to volunteer to bring in snacks ranging from breakfast baked goods, fruit, juice, water, etc., please email Beth Martin ( bmartin@pausd.org) to be added to the volunteer list. Your help and support for this tradition is greatly appreciated!
FIRST Robotics Community Team 6036 Forming
A new community team for the 2016 FIRST robotics competition season is forming. The team is open to all area high schoolers interested in coding, computer design, graphic design, robotics, electronics, marketing and finance. Students will work alongside adult mentors to design, build and promote their robotic creation. For more information visit
Volunteer Opportunity to Support Paly Teachers and Staff
Show gratitude to our wonderful Paly teachers and staff by offering to chair either the Staff Holiday Lunch or the Staff Appreciation Week lunch. It's a small way to say "thanks" to all those at Paly who help our kids learn and thrive. If interested, please contact Cindy Roberts cinroberts@sbcglobal.net.
Meals on Wheels Volunteers Needed The Paly Meals on Wheels program needs more volunteers to bring emergency meals to Paly families in crisis. If you're interested in being on the Meals on Wheels' list of volunteers, please email Liz Lee, Meals on Wheels Volunteer Coordinator at liz@funghi.com. Please include your day and evening phone number(s).Are you a family in crisis and in need of help with some dinners delivered to your door? Send an email and we'll try to help. Please include any dietary restrictions. Questions? Call me at 650 843-0413.
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Paly Items
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Winter Sports Mandatory Parent Meeting
Tues, Dec. 1, 6:30pm, MAC If your student is playing a winter sport for Paly (Basketball, Soccer or Wrestling), please plan to attend the Winter Sports Parent Meeting on December 1st at 6:30PM in the MAC. We will meet as a large group for about 45 minutes and then split up into individual team meetings (Basketball, Wrestling & Girls Soccer - Boys Soccer parent meeting 11/19). Paly Gear available for purchase starting at 6PM. We look forward to seeing you there! The Paly Sports Boosters Christmas Tree Sale & Paly Gear Fundraiser New Fri, Dec 4, 3pm-8pm, Snack Shack/Paly Football Field entrance
Sat-Sun, Dec 5-6, 10am-8pm, Snack Shack/Paly Football Field entrance
Buy your Christmas Tree, Garland, Wreathes and PALY GEAR and support the Paly Sports Boosters at the same time! Select freshly cut Nobel and Douglas Fir trees from Oregon! Christmas Tree sale will be located at the Snack Shack/Paly Football Field entrance. We'll also be selling PALY GEAR for your Holiday gift needs. Snack shack will be open during this time and we'll also have some Holiday vendors there for you to get a jump-start on your holiday shopping. Christmas Tree Distribution Weekend starts this Friday. Drop by and pick out your tree starting Friday from 3pm - 8pm, Saturday and Sunday we'll be open from 10am to 8pm. You can pre-order your tree at: https://2015palysportsboostersholidaytreefundraiser.eventbrite.com or drop by Friday - Sunday to pick out your own tree! We ordered extra trees, so if you didn't pre-order your tree, you'll still be able to pick up a tree. All tree, garland and wreath sales are 50% Tax Deductible and All proceeds benefit all of Paly's sports programs. THANK YOU for supporting the Paly Sports Boosters! Question please contact us at: pahssportsboosters@gmail.com
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Paly Choirs' 13th Annual Madrigal Feaste
Sat & Sun, Dec. 5 & 6, Westminster Hall (also known as Jordan MP Room)
His Majesty King Henry welcomes all ye to his palace, to join him and his third wife, Queen Jane Seymour, in the festivities of the yuletide season. When ye arrive at the palace ye may find that his young daughter, the Princess Elizabeth has disappeared! Suspects abound in Westminster Palace including the King's other daughter Princess Mary. As ye discover the truth about the disappearance of Princess Elizabeth ye may see tomfoolery, shenanigans, mischief, and the occasional anachronistic guest star (rhymes with Maylor Wift). Interspersed ye shall hear the finest choirs in all the lands, see a jester of unparalleled talent, and feast on sumptuous tea sandwiches and desserts. Huzzah!
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Shop Paly Glass for Holiday Gifts @ the Fiery Arts Winter Glass Sale
Fri, Dec. 4, 3-6 pm and Sat, Dec. 5, 11am-4pm INSIDE the Tower Building
Exquisite Paly-designed reindeer, hand blown ornaments, candy canes, acorns, apples, Palo Alto trees, pears, penguins, pomegranates, pumpkins and more for sale. PALY GLASS is a triple win - it makes impressive gifts, your proceeds benefit Paly's Sculpture classes and there's easy parking. The glass is hand made by instructors, alums, and students. Free demonstrations, hot apple cider and cookies too. Like us on Facebook or check out our website. Contact: PalyFieryArts@gmail.com or Nancy Kawakita. |
The Paly Sports Boosters Holiday Tree Fundraiser Pre-Order Your Tree Today! (Now - through December 1st) Get a head start on your Holiday preparations and support the Paly Sports Boosters at the same time! We're doing things a little differently this year, and doing pre-ordering of Christmas Trees. In order to participate, simply complete the tree pre-order form and drop it off in the office with your payment by November 1st or buy your tree online at: https://2015palysportsboostersholidaytreefundraiser.eventbrite.com. Then, during our Tree Distribution Weekend, (December 4th-6th) you and your family will come to our tree lot to pick-out your tree. Yes, you still get to pick out your tree. These beautiful Noble and Douglas Fir trees will come directly from Oregon and arrive within 72 hours of being cut. Distribution Weekend will include Holiday Festivities, Holiday gift vendors, entertainment, food, and of course your chance to pick up Paly Gear for all your Holiday needs. All tree, garland and wreath sales are 50% Tax Deductible and Allproceeds benefit all of Paly's sports programs. THANK YOU for supporting the Paly Sports Boosters.
Paly MAC Boosters Meeting New Wed, Dec. 9, 7pm, Monisha Bhutani's Home, 368 Iris Way We are still looking to grow our volunteer community for MAC Boosters! Please come to our meeting/celebration to enjoy a beverage and hear about some exciting news from MAC. Whether you would like to be called on for individual projects or would like to lead a new effort or lead one of our existing fundraisers, we can use you and your valuable input. For more information about MAC Boosters, visit us at http://paly.net/boosters/media-arts-boosters.
Fiery Arts Glass Workshops at Palo Alto High School Dec. 12-13, 9-3 pm at Paly's Glass Studio Yes, we have a glass studio at Paly. These workshops are open to the public, students and parents. Here's your chance to learn to blow glass at Paly. Workshops do fill up, so, do not hesitate, sign up for a date. The 2 day weekend workshop will focus on beginning glass blowing techniques. It's an incredible, fun, hands-on experience. Repeating students progress from their last session. Advanced Sign up required. Class limit is 4. Teens and adults. $375 per person. Proceeds benefit the Palo Alto High School Fiery Arts. Workshop flyer To sign up, contact: David Camner, founder of Paly Glass, dcamner@pausd.org
Paly Sports Boosters Olive Oil Fundraiser Through Dec. 18 The Paly Sports Booster's are pleased to announce that as part of our fundraising efforts this fall, we are pleased to bring you Cloud 9 Orchard products. Cloud 9 Orchard owner, May Chevallier and her family have been growing and producing their award winning premium olive oil on their farm in Monterey County since 2008. For a limited time only, she is offering her outstanding oil to the Paly community and will donate a percentage of her sales to help raise some money for the Paly Sports Boosters. This is your opportunity to order some award winning olive oils for yourself, or for your friends and family not to mention, they make great corporate gifts! We'll have two pick up dates, one will be prior to Thanksgiving (details to be announced) and the other date will be the weekend of our Holiday Tree Distribution, December 4th-6th. To order your olive oil, please contact May Chevallier at may@cloud9orchard.comor pick up an order form in the Paly Office. |
College & Career Center
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Keep up-to-date with Paly College and Career Center news and events by "liking" us on Facebook. The C&CC holds an open-house after each parent night in the Fall. There is also a wealth of information in Naviance and on the C&CC page.
The Common Application workshop originally scheduled for Tues., Nov. 17 during Tutorial has been rescheduled to Tues., Nov. 24 during Tutorial in Computer Lab 2.
Common Application Workshop Rescheduled
Tues, Nov. 24, 1:50 pm (Tutorial), CL2Get help with a hands-on workshop! Beyond inviting and assigning Recommenders (covered in the Nov. 5 workshop), how to best use the Additional Information section, tips for completing the Activities section, and more. If you can't attend the workshop, review these: Common Application Directions
College Rep Visits Students must have their teacher's permission one day in advance if missing class. Pick up a form in the C&CC, or download it. Bring the signed form the day of the visit to ensure the absence from class is cleared and marked as an activity rather than a truancy. College visits scheduled for the next two weeks are listed below. For a full list of all visits through Spring, login to Naviance using your user ID and password or login as a Guest with no password. Click on the "Colleges" tab then click "view all upcoming college visits" within the "my colleges" section. Due to increased student attendance and limited space in the College Center, we are no longer able to permit parents to attend college representative visits, please click to read more information about this policy.
There are no on-campus college visits scheduled until January, 2016.
ON CAMPUS:
Boston College 1/11/16 11:15 AM
OFF CAMPUS:
University of Colorado at Colorado Springs 12/5/15 9:00AM Palo Alto
Butler University 1/2/16 3:00 PM San Francisco
Sonoma State University 1/16/16 Rohnert Park
National Portfolio Day 1/16/16 12:00 PM San Francisco
Scholarships and contests/competitions expiring through December 5, 2015
Paly deadlines may be 2-4 weeks prior to public scholarship deadlines to allow for Paly TA and Guidance lead times. To learn about scholarships listed below and others login to Naviance using your user ID and password or login as a Guest with no password. Click the "Colleges" tab, scroll to the "scholarships and money" section, then click on the "scholarship list" link. Click for more information about scholarship resources.
Good360 Sustainability Scholarship: Deadline 11/30 - NEW
KenyonReview-The Patricia Grodd Poetry Prize for Young Writers: Deadline 11/30 - NEW
High School Achievement Scholarship: Deadline 12/1 - NEW
Montana State University Presidential Scholarships: Deadline 12/4 - NEW
University of Texas/Dallas - Eugene McDermott Scholars Program: Deadline 12/5 - NEW
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PAUSD
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The Mindset Revolution: How to Help Children Learn and Love Math New
Mon, Dec 7th, 6:45 PM, MP Room Jordan Middle School, 750 N. California Ave, Palo Alto
In this presentation Dr. Jo Boaler, Professor of Mathematics Education, Stanford University and presenter at the White House on girls and STEM will share the latest brain science that sheds important new light on the best ways to learn math. She will also engage the audience through videos of students learning math in different ways and share a wealth of resources to help students on their mathematics journeys. (Target Audience: 4th to 12th Grade Parents, Teachers, Middle and High School students.) RSVP appreciated: http://goo.gl/forms/kb00AQ44fD Co-sponsored by PAUSD and Parent Advocates for Student Success, a parent network dedicated to closing the achievement gap in PAUSD.
PAUSD Code Fest for K-12 Students, Educators & Families New
Sat Dec 12th 1-5 pm, JLS Middle School, 480 E. Meadow, Palo Alto
Bringing you PAUSD's Code Fest during the week of the Hour of Code. Everyone is welcome. The event will contain thirty hands-on sessions and challenges to choose from during three 50 minute sessions, ranging from computers to robots to iPads and phones. Registration & FAQ: bit.ly/PAUSDCodeFest Questions? Contact Smita Kolhatkar: skolhatkar@pausd.org
Information on California Immunization Laws
This is to inform you of the new California immunization laws (SB 277),
where changes have been enacted in the California Health and Safety Code, which will become effective in 2016.
The new amendments to the California Health and Safety Code will no longer permit Personal Beliefs Exemptions (PBEs) for children in childcare and public or private schools. However, California PBEs submitted before January 1, 2016 will remain valid until the student reaches the next immunization checkpoint, either Kindergarten or 7th grade. If you have a child entering Kindergarten or 7th grade in the fall, he/she will be subjected to this new immunization law. PBE's will no longer be accepted at these grade levels.
Only Medical Exemption (ME) letters signed by a California licensed M.D or D.O. will be accepted. The ME letter must include all of the following information:
- Child's name and date of birth
- A statement that the physical condition or medical circumstances of the child are such that the required immunizations are not indicated
- Which vaccines are being exempted
- Whether the medical exemption is permanent or temporary
- The expiration date, if the exemption is temporary
- Doctor's signature and clinic stamp
For more information please check out:
Spectra Art teacher needed for Ohlone
2 days, Tuesdays and Wednesdays
3 classes each day: 9-10, 10:30-11:30 and 12:50-1:50
All K/1 combination classes
Classified position, credential not required
Artist with teaching experience preferred.
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Community Service 
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President's Award Ceremony
Fri, Dec. 11, during lunch, Haymarket Theater
Did your student apply for the President's Award this semester? Watch for a letter to arrive around Dec. 5th. Parents, siblings, and friends invited and encouraged to attend! Please see the list at Paly.net/serviceto find your student's name for further confirmation. Questions or concerns? Email Mrs. Christina Owen: cowen@pausd.org.
Looking for ways for students to have fun, collaborate with others, work with mentors, and share passions while giving back?
Check out the resources from **Get Involved Project below (including opportunities calendar), also posted at Paly.net/service. Service-learning is supported by scholarly research as a way for students to find meaning, purpose, and Developmental Assets while navigating high school and beyond.
Know of a community benefit organization or upcoming opportunity to share?
Hundreds of nonprofits and grassroots programs have collaborated with Paly students to get involved in their interests while documenting 30,000-40,000 service-learning hours each year. Students write reflections, create programs, videos, slideshows, and service-learning magazines that inspire their collegues to make connections from classroom to community. See student-led Get Involved publications and website for list of vetted organizations by category. Email: Getinvolvedpaloalto@gmail.com.
**Get Involved Project is a social venture created with, by, and for Palo Alto students. Our work is informed and inspired by the following: Dr. William Damon/Stanford, The Path to Purpose; service-learning Common Core advocate Katherine Berger Kaye, ; Richard N. Bolles, What Color is Your Parachute; and Dr. Denise Clark Pope/Stanford, www.challengesuccess.org.
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Community
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Summing Up Europe
REGISTRATION CLOSING AT THE END OF THE MONTH
This is a unique, mathematically-themed, international travel opportunity for students. We will spend three days in London, including daytrips to Bletchley Park and Hampton Court Palace. Then, after taking the Eurostar across the channel, we sill spend three days in Paris, including an excursion to Chartres and the Loire Valley. http://www.eftours.com/tour-website/1668162NK
I want students to see and appreciate mathematics beyond textbooks. Math is everywhere; it is a human endeavor shared by all cultures. Your child will step outside the classroom and engage with the mathematical world firsthand, appreciating its history, experiencing its beauty and seeing its connection to a variety of fields of study. In addition, this incredible opportunity will help your child navigate new situations with a broader global perspective, build self-confidence and give them a life changing experience.
Deanna Chute, Paly math teacher
Palo Alto Library -- Teen Tuesday - You Pick! Afternoon Movie and Snack
Tues, Dec. 1, 4pm. Rinconada Library
Vote on our Facebook page for the movie you want to watch! Snacks provided. Grades 6-12.
Palo Alto Library -- Kids and Teens Writing Contest
Tues, Dec. 1, Children's Library AND Mitchell Park Library
Palo Alto Library will begin submissions for its Writing Contest. This year's essay prompt is "Who is your hero?" Grades 2-12. Submission deadline is January 8 by 11 pm.
Palo Alto Library -- Exploring Happiness through Meditation & Movement
Tues, Dec. 1 and 15, 5:30-6:30pm. Rinconada Library
Learn mindfulness through meditation and yoga-high school students are welcome to join us! Please note-our December 15 day may be changed to another date or location. Find out more here.
Palo Alto Library --Parenting Program: Staying Connected with your Child
Thurs, Dec. 3, 7-8:30pm. Mitchell Park Library
This month's topic provides tips for parents to stay connected in our digital world. The Parenting
Programs are held the first Thursday of every month at Mitchell Park or Rinconada Libraries.
Veteran's Hospital Holiday Craft Fair
Wed, Dec. 2, 4:30-9:30pm, Menlo Park VA Hospital, 795 Willow Road
Have fun and hear stories as you assist men and women who have honorably served our country with making decorations and crafts that will get everyone in the holiday spirit!
There will be 2 work shifts (4:30pm - 7:00pm & 7:00pm - 9:30pm) and you must be 14 years or older to participate. To volunteer, please contact hanh@youthcommunityservice.org.
Let's Talk. Monthly CAC Parent Support Group
Thurs, Dec. 3, 7- 8:30pm, Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield, Classroom A2
Meet and share ideas, resources and support with other PAUSD parents of students with IEPs, 504s, learning differences, mental health challenges, etc. All are welcome, participants must respect confidentiality. Sponsored by the Palo Alto Sub-Committee of SELPA 1 CAC, a Palo Alto parent volunteer group for special education and inclusion. Free and no prior registration required. For more information,see: http://cacpaloalto.org/
Teen Writing Club
Thurs, Dec 3 & 17, 4-5:30 p.m. Rinconada Library
Share your passion for writing with other teens. Writing prompts, activities, and light snacks provided. Grades 6 and up. Register here.
Palo Alto Model United Nations Begins New
Thurs Dec 3, 6:30-8:00pm, Mitchell Park Community Center
Come join us for our first meeting of the year for Palo Alto YMCA's Model United Nations program for middle school students. Our students, called Delegates, participate in a statewide program with their peers. While engaged in our weekly Thursday meetings, our delegates are given the opportunity to discuss international issues, discover other cultures, develop life enhancing skills, and make new friends culminating in the statewide annual California Model United Nations Summit. A parent informational session will be provided during the last half hour of the meeting. For more information about this exciting program, or if you have any additional questions, please contact Ahmad Fayad at ahmad.fayad@ymcasv.org, or (650) 704-6248.
Palo Alto Art Center -- Percolate: Coffee Talks to Fuel the Mind New
Thu, Dec 3rd, 11 AM, 1313 Newell Road, Palo Alto
David Evan Harris, Research Director and Curator, Institute for the Future and Executive Director of the Global Lives Project, a video library of life experience around the world that has been screened and exhibited at dozens of venues, will speak about his work with the Project and the Institute. Percolate is a series of free lectures in conjunction with the fall exhibition, Front Yard/Backstreet [ http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/gov/depts/csd/artcenter/exhibitions/current.asp]. Free coffee will be provided by Peet's Coffee and Tea.
Dance Connection & Palo Alto Dance Connection Youth Ensemble Present the 17th Annual Production of The Nutcracker New
Fri, Dec 4, 7pm; Sat, Dec 5, 2pm and 7pm; Sun, Dec 6, 3pm, Spangenberg Theatre, Gunn High School, 780 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto
Celebrate the holiday season with a classic the whole family will enjoy. There are four breathtaking performances for audiences of all ages. The production includes many dancers who are PAUSD students ranging from elementary school to high school. Tickets available online at: www.danceconnectionpaloalto.com
Palo Alto Library -- Friday Fun
Fri, Dec 4, 3:30-5pm. Mitchell Park Library, AND Children's Library
Drop in for board games, simple crafts, and Bingo!
Palo Alto Library -- Saturday Board Games
Sat, Dec 5, 10-6pm. Downtown Library.
Enjoy a day of modern board-gaming in the Library! Teens and adults welcome-and bring your own snacks to keep fueled throughout the day! This monthly program is held the 1st Saturday of every month.
Ragazzi Boys Chorus Performances New
Sat, Dec 5; 4pm; St. First United Methodist Church, 625 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto
Ragazzi Boys Chorus presents I Dream a World, an effervescent holiday concert series inspired by the classic Langston Hughes poem of the same name. These jubilant Bay Area concerts celebrate the power of love and music to transform lives across cultures. Selections include a Sufi chant sung in Arabic, Hebrew pieces, and classical European choral works. Concerts will conclude with Ragazzi's carol sing-a-long featuring favorites such as Deck the Halls, Joy to the World, and O Come All Ye Faithful. Info and Tickets http://ragazzi.org/performances/
Soccer tryouts : Stanford United 00 Black, U15 Boys GOLD
Sun, Dec. 6, 2:30-4:30pm, Cubberley Football field 2:30-4:30pm
We are looking for enthusiastic players born in 2000 and 2001 who love soccer, team spirit and competition. Our program is directed by Vava Marques, a US Professional (WPSL FC Gold Pride), US National Team, and college coach who brings 20+ years of coaching experience to our program. Vava is supported by a quality coaching staff. Our team Stanford United Fireballs has played Gold CCSL Divisions and the Norcal State Cup/gold level. For further team information please contact managers Shali ( smmiklos@yahoo.com) or Anne ( anne_rerolle@hotmail.com)
Palo Alto Art Center -- Holiday Family Day New
Sun, Dec. 6, 2-4 PM, 1313 Newell Road, Palo Alto
Join us for hands-on artmaking projects that transform everyday objects into gifts, goodies, and décor for the whole family. Design your own wrapping paper and cards, create brooches and pins, compose wonderland scenes, and personalize garlands to display in your home. A special performance by Firebird Youth Chinese Orchestra will take place from 4-4:30 p.m. Palo Alto Art Center Foundation members receive early entry to the event for a special artmaking activity from 1-2 p.m.
Successful College Applications: Showcase Your Achievements in the Arts
Mon, Dec. 7, 7pm, Community School of Music and Arts 230 San Antonio Circle, Mountain View
Join us for a presentation by Harriet Katz, the Creative Kid College Coach. Learn the benefits of an arts education and how to position the arts for competitive advantage when applying to college. Great for students applying to colleges with or without arts programs!
Palo Alto Philharmonic Orchestra Concert II
Sat, Dec 8, 8pm, Cubberley Theatre, 4000 Middlefield Road
The Palo Alto Philharmonic presents Viola Night featuring Geri Actor and Mimi Dye performing the works of Aaron Copland, Gustav Mahler and others. The pre-concert talk begins at 7:30 PM. To purchase tickets, go to http://www.paphil.org/pages/concerts/orch2.php
Jordan Choirs Winter Concert - "Let It Be" New
Wed, Dec 9, 7:00 PM, MP Room, Jordan Middle School, 750 N. California Ave, Palo Alto
Please join the Jordan Choirs for its Winter Concert - "Let It Be." This will be the first big concert of the year and all of the Jordan Choirs will entertain the audience with music by Mozart, Haydn, and Faure, as well as a variety of Beatles hits from across their career. It's sure to be a fun night celebrating all of the amazing ways that music has transformed over the centuries to give us what we have and appreciate today in modern music. In addition to the formal concert, we will have an optional Audience Singalong immediately before at 6:30. Join our choirs in singing some of your favorite Beatles songs from over the years. All are welcome to join in the spirit and sing along!
Palo Alto Library -- Graphic Novel Book Club
Second Thurs of the month, 7-8pm. Mitchell Park Library, 3700 Middlefield Rd.
While we're on a break in December, please join the group on January 14 (Feb 11, Mar 10, Apr 14, and May 12) for a lively discussion on a graphic novel selected by the group. For adults and teens (age 16+).
Ragazzi Boys Chorus Winter Recital New
Sat, Dec 12; 5pm; First United Methodist Church, 625 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto
Join us in celebrating the singers of Ragazzi Boys Chorus, from small to tall. Many of Ragazzi's groups are showcased, particularly our younger boys. Ragazzi's program of musical growth and progress is laid out, from the entry-level groups through middle school. Each group performs a set of songs, and wonderful seasonal music is presented throughout the concert. Info and Tickets http://ragazzi.org/performances/
Palo Alto Library -- Bay Area Quiz Club
Sun, Dec 13. Mitchell Park Library
Join the Bay Area Quiz Club the second Sunday of every month! Please arrive promptly at 2pm, so that we can draw lots and form teams. Students 8th grade and up are welcome to join.
Palo Alto Library -- New SAT Practice Test
Sat, Dec 19, 10:30am. Rinconada Library
Stanford Center for Interdisciplinary Brain Sciences Research
Does your child have a diagnosis of a developmental or intellectual disability and engage in frequent problem behavior, such as aggression or self-injury? A study is being conducted study to evaluate how environmental stressors affect problem behavior in males, ages 10-18. Participation includes: 2-2.5 day visit to Stanford University, comprehensive behavioral assessment, parent interview, and non-invasive physiological measures (cortisol and heart-rate). Families will receive a full behavioral report and a $100 honorarium. To determine your child's eligibility for the study, please complete a brief survey: https://stanforduniversity.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_5vVevWksrkuM8dL
Contact: Rebecca Barnett, rbarnet2@stanford.edu, 650-724-7395
Community Service Grants
Tutor Corps Foundation awards grants to support innovative student projects that make a sustainable impact in the community. Projects may address issues such as poverty, education, health or the environment. Past grant recipients have:
* Created an after-school soccer program for K-3 students in East Palo Alto
* Promoted musicianship at San Francisco schools lacking music programs
* Provided under-resourced families access to eye-health exams and glasses in San Rafael
Who: Students in grades 6 to 11 may apply
Deadline: EXTENDED to Monday December 7, 2015
Awards: $250 - $750
Teacher of the Year Award
Tutor Corps recognizes the finest educators in the San Francisco Bay Area with theTeacher of the Year Award ($1000).
Who to Nominate: San Francisco Bay Area Teachers
Who can Nominate: Faculty, Staff, Teachers, Parents, current and former Students, Friends
Deadline: EXTENDED to Monday December 7, 2015
Award: $1000 and award ceremony at school assembly
** Nominating only takes 3 minutes!
The 2015-2016 Children's Theatre Ten Minute Playwriting Contest
Announcing the 2015 - 2016 Children's Theatre Ten Minute Playwriting Contest. Students in grade 3 - 12 may submit original work. Submissions will be accepted through December 18, 2015. Click for more information and to download an application.
Spanish Immersion Opportunity for High School Students in Oaxaca, Mexico (Summer 2016)
Application Deadline: January 6, 2016
If living in a beautiful and historic city, improving your Spanish language skills, learning about another culture, and building new friendships is something you'd like to do, come to the family information meeting about Neighbors Abroad's student exchange. Neighbors Abroad, Palo Alto's sister city organization, has sponsored a summer student exchange with Oaxaca, Mexico, since 1965. Applicants should be high school students at least 15 years old by June of 2016 who are studying Spanish at any level. For questions and an application packet, contact Marion at marionb@sonic.net or Lynne at lynnerussell1@gmail.com (parent of a Gunn HS senior who participated in the exchange). For more information about Neighbors Abroad, visit www.neighborsabroad.org
Be Safe. Be Seen. Bike lights are required by law for riding after dusk
With shorter days, students are commuting at dusk or in the dark. Bicycle lights and reflectors are required by law at this time of day. Visibility begins to decline at dusk before the sun is completely down, so bicyclists are required to turn on their lights when light begins to fade. A handlebar headlight makes a bicycle visible to others and illuminates the road so the rider can see. Tail lights and reflectors should be mounted on something stable where they won't be obscured by bags, panniers or other gear on the bike. Lights are vastly superior to reflectors, so a red light on the rear is recommended for maximum visibility.
Family Holiday Volunteering If you're looking for a way to get your family into the holiday spirit by helping others, check out http://familyholidayhelpers.org, a non-profit web site created by a mom of two PAUSD students to help parents find volunteering opportunities during the holiday season with their children in the San Francisco Bay Area. There are a variety of local opportunities for families, such as prepping/serving food for Thanksgiving, working a shift at a food bank or holiday warehouse, or assembling a shoebox of small gifts for women in shelters. Happy volunteering!
Social Skills Treatment Study
Stanford Psychiatry
Does your son need help to improve his social skills? We are conducting a behavioral treatment study to help children with developmental disabilities learn eye contact and social skills. Participation involves: a 3-4 day visit to Stanford, cognitive testing, awake MRI scan, and intensive behavioral intervention. Inclusion criteria: male children age 8-15 years, diagnosed with an intellectual or developmental disability, and does not experience seizures. Families will receive a report of the cognitive testing and a $100 honorarium for their time. To determine your child's eligibility for the study, please complete a brief survey: https://stanforduniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5AUOIKqWIJ6gN1j
Help Improve The City's Free Shuttle Service
Many PAUSD secondary school students use the City of Palo Alto Free Shuttle to commute to school. The city is considering improvements to the Shuttle service and they are seeking community input to guide their planning process. Here is the link to a one-minute survey: http://cityofpaloalto.org/shuttle Fill it out to help the city understand how they can serve students better. To learn more or to provide more input, contact the City of Palo Alto Transportation Department at shuttle@CityofPaloAlto.org or call 650-329-2442.
Adopt A Teacher Who Needs Your Support
Make a real difference for a teacher and his/her students by "adopting" a K-8 teacher in East Palo Alto or east Menlo Park for a school year. Provide the teacher with encouraging notes and/or small gifts of appreciation, school supplies and support for two class parties. Financial commitment $500-600, time commitment very flexible. It's easy and fun to adopt a teacher with friends. Learn more or sign up at http://ravenswoodef.org/adopt-a-teacher/ or by contacting Jennifer Wythes Vettel at jwvettel@yahoo.com.
Directing Change
"Directing Change" is a film contest (final deadline for film submission is Mar 1, 2016) for California high school students to help reduce mental illness stigma & support suicide prevention. Directing Change is part of Each Mind Matters, California's Mental Health Movement. Each Mind Matters serves as the megaphone to amplify the voices of all people who want to put an end to stigma related to mental health and create a community where everyone feels comfortable reaching out for the support they deserve. For more information visit: eachmindmatters.org. For information on contest rules, various deadlines and FAQs please visit http://www.directingchange.org/
Love Art and Art History?
Weekly meetings held every Friday, 9:30-11 am at Art Education, 25F Churchill AvenueVolunteer docents needed to give presentations about the lives and work of Master Artists to PAUSD elementary students. Training provided by Arts Coordinator, Sharon Ferguson. Art History background preferred but not required. Flexible hours.
For more information contact Art Education (650) 329-3939 or email Emily at emarshall@pausd.org
Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University Celebrates Artists at Work
Artists at Work on view through January 18, 2016
The Cantor Arts Center presents a major new exhibition, Artists at Work, which examines how artists become inspired, how artists make objects and how place impacts artists' work. Includes works by Édouard Manet, J. M. W. Turner, Thomas Hart Benton, Sol LeWitt, Richard Serra, Ansel Adams, Edward Weston and other renowned American and European artists. Also included are loaned works by contemporary artists Trevor Paglen, Garth Weiser, Hope Gangloff and Rachel Owens, among others. The Cantor Arts Center is open six days a week, Wed-Mon, 11 AM -5 PM, Thurs until 8 PM. Admission is free. The Cantor is located on the Stanford campus. Information: 650-723-4177, museum.stanford.edu.
Stanford Sleep Study Ongoing We are currently conducting a study to help teens (14-18) go to bed earlier and wake up earlier. The treatment involves use of a light device that is placed by the child's bedside and flashes periodically throughout the night. Teens also meet for four sessions with a licensed psychologist at Stanford University to learn about sleep and strategies to improve sleep. The paid study requires completing a sleep diary daily for five weeks. Please contact the Zeitzer Laboratory at teensleep@stanford.eduor (650) 725-7767. |
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About the Paly Link
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The Paly Link is a Paly PTSA publication, emailed on Sundays, except during school breaks and holidays. Changes will be highlighted as New/Updated/Corrected.
Deadline for submittals: noon on Saturday, the day before publication. Flyers must be submitted by noon on Thursday. Items run no earlier than 3 weeks before the event.
To submit an item, send to palylink@paloaltopta.org. See submission instructions here. Include a header or title line, then a line listing the date, time and location of the event. Follow with a brief (2-4 sentence) description of the activity, with the most important information first. List email, contact information and web links last. Items are published at the discretion of the editors.
--Shuchi Grover and Carlene Kemmerer, Paly Link Editors
--Bala Aiyar, Paly Link List Manager and Gordon Craig, Paly Link Webmaster
Click Here to sign up a new email address to receive the Link. Click on the "Update Profile/Email Address" link below to update an existing address.
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