Paly Link

A PTSA publication

Sunday, January 24, 2016
tower building drawing

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.
Calendar
WednesdayJan. 27
Sophomore Parent Night, 7 pm, Haymarket (Paly)
ThursdayJan. 28
What Parents & Teens Need to Know about Alcohol and Drugs (PTSA)
FridayJan. 29
Class of 2018 Parent Mtg, 8:30-10am, 526 Lowell Ave.  (Paly)
FridayJan. 29
Paly Community Scholarship Application Deadline  (C&CC)
Wednesday
Feb. 3
Great Minds Speaker Series, "THE NEW DANGERS FOR FREEDOM OF        EXPRESSION", 7pm, MAC (Paly)
Thursday
Feb. 4
Out of Sate Colleges Presentation, 7pm, LCR (C&CC)
PTSA and PTA AnnouncementsPTSA
Check out the Paly PTSA website
STOP! New
The law requires bicyclists to come to full stop at STOP signs. This is especially important in rainy weather when cars cannot stop quickly on wet streets.  Bicyclists who fail to stop put themselves and others at risk. Remember to signal your intent to stop (especially if you are 
riding in a pack).  Come to a full stop behind the stop line and look for a safe gap in traffic before proceeding. Share the road safely. 
For more information on safe school commutes, go to http://saferoutes.paloaltopta.org/index.shtml and http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/gov/depts/pln/transit/saferoutes.asp

What Parents and Teens Need to Know about Alcohol and Drug Use  
Thurs, Jan. 28, 7:30-9pm, Library Conference Room
Speaker and facilitator:  Randall Ramirez, Unity Care
Part of growing up involves testing personal and social boundaries. This typically includes trying new things, including potentially harmful substances such as alcohol and drugs. Teens may be enticed to use alcohol and drugs due to stress, peer pressure, curiosity, or trying to emulate parents or adult behavior.
For this workshop, bring your teen and discover adolescent brain development and how alcohol and drugs affect the brain, the dangers of substance abuse and addiction, various drugs used by teens and their effects on the body, and what parents can do if they suspect their teen is using.
This workshop will be offered in English and Spanish.  Mandarin translation available.  Childcare will be available for families with young children. Please register via Event Brite using this link: Alcohol and Drug Workshop Any questions? Contact Dawn Billman at [email protected] or Lori Buecheler at [email protected]

PTAC Honorary Service Awards
Deadline for Nominations: Feb 12, 2016
Each year the Palo Alto Council of PTAs may bestow one of several California State PTA Honorary Service Awards to individuals or organizations that have demonstrated outstanding service to children and youth in our community.  The individuals or organization nominated must make far-reaching, notable contributions. The PTA Council HSA Committee selects persons or groups who have benefited children and youth on a district-wide or Palo Alto community level. If you know of someone or an organization that deserves to be honored at this level, please indicate their name so that they may be put into nomination when the committee meets to choose this year's recipients. The chosen recipients will be announced at our Honorary Service Award Breakfast April 22, 2016. Please use this Nomination Form to submit a nomination. Questions?  Contact [email protected]

Help for Families in Case of El Ni�o Evacuation/Flooding
The San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority recommends that families, including pets living in flood zones arrange to stay with other households in the event of evacuation or flooding during this El Ni�o winter. Super tides at the Baylands could make flooding worse/more likely. During the Super Bowl hotels and motels are expected to be full and therefore not an option for evacuees.
Are their any Paly families willing and able to take in another Paly family, possibly including pets for a few days in the event of such an emergency? Are their any Paly families who have reason to fear their homes may be evacuated or flooded and need alternate shelter until their homes are inhabitable?
If so, please email Liz Lee at [email protected] and I'll match families up. For families needing to arrange shelter, please include how many people are in your family and what pets you have. Better to have a plan and not need it than to need it and not have a plan. If you have any questions, call Liz Lee at 843-0413. Thanks!
 
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 [email protected]. 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.
Paly ItemsPaly
paly viking ship logo


C Magazine: Subscription now open! New
We're C Magazine, Paly's arts and culture publication, and we'd love for you to subscribe. Get each issue delivered straight to your inbox - plus, if you'd like, exclusive playlists, updates on local art events, and select stories before the print magazine comes out!

Adolescent Counseling Services Blog - Understanding and Coping with Anxiety
This article was written by Deborah Sloss, LCSW, our site supervisor at JLS Middle school. http://www.acs-teens.org/understanding-and-coping-with-anxiety/

School Commute Alert: Construction on Kingsley between Alma and Emerson
The City of Palo Alto Utilities Engineering Division will replace and upgrade the water utility distribution system on Kingsley between Alma and Emerson. See map on the second page here. Work will occur between the hours of 9am and 4pm for approximately one month. Construction will start on the south side of Embarcadero at Kingsley and Alma and will move to the north side of Embarcadero at Kingsley and Emerson. During construction, the affected blocks will be closed to vehicular traffic and detours will be posted. While the sidewalks will remain open, students who usually bike on the sidewalks on Embarcadero between 9am and 4pm are encouraged to avoid the Embarcadero Road underpass and use the Homer Avenue Tunnel or Churchill Road instead. See Paly's Walk and Roll Map for alternate routes. Questions about this project can be directed to Construction Engineer Marina Ezrina at 650-566-4519 or [email protected]

Advanced Authentic Research (AAR)
Advanced Authentic Research (AAR) is a new course offering for the 2016-17 school year and we would like to encourage all interested students to enroll.  AAR is a unique opportunity for students in grades 10-12 to do original research in an area of their choosing including Biochemistry, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Science, Engineering, English, Government, History, Mathematics, Mathematics and Sports, Medicine, Music, Psychology, Social Science, Sound and Physics, and more.  Please check out the project our students are currently working on. https://aar.pausd.org/projects
Students will be paired with mentors/advisors who are experts in the field of the student's choosing.  The mentor will support and facilitate the student's work in the mentor's lab, office, or other appropriate environment. The student's research will be supported by the process-oriented curriculum developed by the AAR team. The curriculum is built on the following three key elements:  Personalized Learning, Integration of Knowledge and Process and Communication of Research Project.  The AAR program strives to fulfill our mission of nurturing student interest and igniting student passion through real world, hands on research. The expectation is that students will spend about 60 hours per semester (3-4 hours per week) on their project. The program is offered as a Pass/Fail option and will earn 5 credits per semester.   More information about the course can be found at http://aar.pausd.org/
Questions about the course can be directed to Deanna Chute.

Paly Sports Boosters - Tiny Prints Fundraiser for Graduation Announcements New
The Paly Sports Boosters has partnered with Tiny Prints to help with the ordering and printing of your Graduation Announcements.  Tiny Prints is a leading retailer of premium personalized photo cards and has been recognized for their high quality prints and unmatched customer service.  Each card ordered is also hand reviewed before it's printed to ensure quality and accuracy.  To start your order through Tiny Prints, please click on the link below which will lead you to our co-branded Tiny Prints Storefront.  From here, you can shop for any product on the Tiny Prints site or review a few of our favorite choices.  Paly Sports Boosters Personalized Link: http://www.tinyprints.com/storefront/palysportsboosters

Sophomore Parent Night
Wed Jan. 27, 7pm, Haymarket Theatre
Please join us for an informational presentation for parents of sophomores.  Topics to include:
Life of a Sophomore, Academic Planning, Course Selective Process Overview, Role of the Teacher Advisor, What Can Parents Do?, Thinking About Post-High School Options, Gearing Up for the College Search, and more.

Class of 2018 (Sophomores) Parent Network Meeting
Fri, Jan. 29, 8:30-10 am, home of Lauren Bonomi, 526 Lowell Ave.(between Cowper & Webster)
Charles Taylor (Class of 2018 Guidance Counselor) will discuss course selection for junior year. We recommend arriving at the meeting a few minutes early, as it is necessary to start Mr. Taylor's talk promptly at 8:30 a.m. If you havegeneral questions for Charles Taylor on issues other than junior year course selection, please send them to Julie Tomz or Julia Kossack by 5:00pm Tue., Jan. 26.
We look forward to seeing you there! Questions? Contact Julia Kossack ([email protected]) or Julie Tomz ([email protected] )

'Great Minds' Speaker Series "The New Dangers for Freedom of Expression." Jeffrey Herbst 
Weds. Feb. 3, 7pm, Media Arts Center
Paly's Media Arts Boosters continues its 'Great Minds at Campus' speaker series held in the Media Arts Center. Join NEWSEUM President/CEO, Jeffrey Herbst, for a conversation on "The New Dangers for Freedom of Expression."  Headquartered in Washington D.C., the Newseum is the only organization in the world dedicated to free expression and the five freedoms of the First Amendment: religion, speech, press, assembly and petition. Tickets are $10 adult/ $5 student, and must be purchased in advance through paly-macgmac-newseum.eventbrite.com. Proceeds benefit Paly's Media Arts Boosters, which supports projects and initiatives of Paly's various media arts programs. Please contact Michele Dulik with questions, [email protected].

Paly Athletics - Spring Season Important Information
Ongoing
The first day of SPRING SPORTS tryouts for non-winter athletes is MONDAY FEBRUARY 1, 2016. In order to participate in sports at Paly including tryouts, a student must be medically CLEARED. This includes registering OR updating/re-enrolling in the APPRYSE system AND having on file (with the APPRYSE system) a physical that is dated after 5/15/15. Per CCS rules, physicals are only good for one year and must be up-to-date for the entire season. Please go to http://www.paly.net/athletics/athletics and use the link for registration in the upper left hand corner (with instructions!) Please do this well before Feb 1st!  The Paly Athletic Dept will no longer accept paper registration or non-APPRYSE physical forms.  Once you have enrolled or updated the APPRYSE system, you will be able to download the proper physical form to bring to your doctor. Thanks so much for your help with this - the spring season has the most participants and getting your athlete registered well before the deadline will be a tremendous help.

Fiery Arts Glass Workshops at Palo Alto High School
March 19-20, April 16-17, May 21-22, June 4-5, 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, [email protected]
College & Career Center CCC
 
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

Meetings With College And Career Advisors New
Juniors may now schedule individual meetings with college and career advisors. Students will be required to complete the POST HIGH SCHOOL PLANNING SURVEY in Naviance (click the "About Me" tab in the top navigation panel, then look under the "Surveys to Take" section in the left-hand navigation panel), print it out, and present this form to the C&CC before they can schedule their first appointment by stopping by the C&CC.  If you've misplaced your Naviance login information or need your password reset, please contact Ms. Larson ([email protected]) or drop by Guidance or the C&CC.
At the College Center, students wanting to schedule 1st (or repeat) appointments will be asked to complete an appointment request form; within 1 week, they will receive an email from Ms. Tonga ([email protected]) notifying them of their scheduled meeting date and time.  Students should add Ms. Tonga's email address (as well as their College Advisor's) in their email contact list so Ms. Tonga's email doesn't get filtered to their email provider's  SPAM folder.  If students don't receive an email appointment within a week, please stop by Guidance to see Ms. Tonga.
Students can meet with college advisors during their prep period, during Tutorial, or after school.
  • Students with last names starting with A-K will meet with Ms. Cernobori
  • Students with last names L-Z will meet with Ms. Erber.
  • Students interested in community college (for career/vocational training, Associates degrees, or preparation for transfer) will meet with Mrs. Laguna.
Any student-in any grade level--can drop in at brunch and/or lunch Advisory to ask advisors questions.
Since the months of April and May are very busy in the C&CC, it is advisable to make an appointment in advance. During the first meeting with a college advisor, it is preferable to meet with just the student (parents might want to attend subsequent meetings).

Phillips Exeter Academy Summer School Program New
Tues, Jan. 26, lunchtime in front of the student center
Stop by to learn more about their programs where students from 40 states and 50 countries meet for 5 weeks of student-centered academic study, athletics, arts and exploration.   
One hundred courses are offered, including psychology, marine biology, speechmaking, astrophysics, game programming ... plus all levels of math, English and the arts.
The Exeter-Stanford Process of Creativity. Take art history, design and architecture classes with Stanford University professors; then build your designs in our maker's lab.
The Charles J. Hamm '55 Leadership Program. Attend seminar and workshops in leadership and society, design and complete a capstone project, hear guest speakers and participate in off-campus excursions.
  • Summer School students have the opportunity to participate in club soccer, crew, music lessons, and standardized test preparation. 
  • Rolling admissions for full-pay students starts December 1, 2015. 
  • Need-based financial aid applications due March 1, 2016.
Financial Aid Workshop
Tues, Jan. 26, 7pm, Menlo Atherton High School (555 Middlefield Road in Atherton)
The State sponsors California Cash for College workshops in January and February where you ll not only get help completing your FAFSA, CA Dream Act and other forms, but students can also enter a drawing for a $1,000 scholarship. One scholarship is offered at each workshop held across the state!
Menlo Atherton High School (555 Middlefield Road in Atherton) is hosting a California Cash for College workshop Tuesday, January 26 at 7 pm. Logonfor more information and to find other workshops in the bay area.

Summer Opportunities Education Evening 
 
Wed. Jan. 27, 7 pm, Gunn High's Library  

Paly Community Scholarship Program application for Seniors due Jan. 29
The sponsors of various community scholarships ask Paly's Scholarship Committee to nominate and/or select students to be considered for/receive awards. To be participate in this scholarship program, students must complete the Paly Community Scholarship Application and return it to Ms. Cernobori (hard copy) by January 29th.
Please read this letter for more information about the program. Students received a copy of the program application via Schoology from their TAs but can also access the application here.
A reminder that students who want to be considered for need-based scholarships in the program must provide family financial information on the last page of the application; in addition, these applicants are also required to submit a copy of the Student Aid Report (including the EFC) they receive after filing the FAFSA along with their scholarship application.  This information is kept confidential.   Samples of acceptable EFC documentation can be found here.
Please refer to Ms. Cernobori's Nov. 20 email for information about applying for need-based financial aid using the FAFSA.  Be sure to check each campus website for deadlines and other forms required in addition to FAFSA, if applicable.
There are numerous other scholarship opportunities that students can pursue on their own; refer to the handout distributed Advisory or visit: http://www.paly.net/college/scholarship_resources

Out of State Colleges Presentation 
Thurs, Feb. 4, 7 pm, LCR (in the library)
Come learn more about out-of-state public colleges and universities. Especially in light of the State budget crisis and its impact on CA higher education, out-state-public colleges offer many benefits. Topics discussed will include:
- number of open spaces (compared to CSU and UC)
- more/different majors than CSUs/UCs
- weather and travel considerations
- Western Undergraduate Exchange program (participation and restrictions) and scholarships
- honors programs
Director - Freshman Recruitment & Admission for Arizona State University, Brad Baertsch, will present.

AFS Study Abroad Program Representative On Campus New
Wed, Feb. 10, lunchtime in the Quad
Have you ever wanted to experience another culture first hand? Do you like language, culture, or history? Come learn about different international exchange opportunities with AFS, the largest and most established exchange program in the world (www.afsusa.org)! We will be hosting a table at lunch on February 10. Come check out your study abroad opportunities!

Naviance Demonstration for Students and Parents 
Thurs. Feb. 25, 7pm, Library Conference Room
Come learn about some of the college and career exploration preparation tools and resources in Naviance: college maps, Paly application scattergrams, resume builder, document library, scholarships, summer enrichment opportunities, and more! Students and parents welcome.
Parents who have misplaced their Naviance registration codes, need their passwords reset, or wish to link multiple student accounts, please send an email to Karla Larson ([email protected]) referencing Naviance in the subject line and provide:
- Parent(s) Full Name(s)
- Full Names and Year in School of *all* Paly students (even grads from 2007-2015 if you used Naviance with them)
- Description of the request.

College Rep Visits
There are no college visits on camps until March:
ON CAMPUS:
Dartmouth College 3/17/16 11:30am
OFF CAMPUS:
None scheduled

Scholarships and contests/competitions expiring through January 31, 2016
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.
Peninsula College Fund Scholarship: Deadline 1/17                
California Association of Collectors Educational Scholarship Foundation: Deadline 1/20
Ronald McDonald House Scholarship Program: Deadline 1/20
CIF/CCS Scholar-Athlete Award: Deadline 2/1 NEW
Colorado State University: Deadline  2/1 NEW
DePauw University - Rector/Holton/Bonner Scholarships: Deadline 2/1 NEW
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) Scholarship: Deadline 2/1 NEW
eQuality Scholarship Collaborative: Deadline 2/1 NEW
National Co-Op Scholarship: Deadline 2/1 NEW
The Joyce-Ridgway Scholarship: Deadline  2/1 NEW
Stephanie Brown Cadet Memorial Foundation Scholarship: Deadline 2/5  NEW
PAUSD
PAUSD Parent Information Session on IEPs & 504 plans (Part 2) - SMART GOALS
Wed, Jan 27, 6:30-7:30pm, SDC Room, 25 Churchill
This session is the second in a series for parents whose children receive support under an IEP (Individualized Education Program) or 504 plan. Presented by PAUSD staff, including Director of Special Education Chiara Perry, Director of Student Services Brenda Carrillo, and Coordinator of Student Services Lissette Moore-Guerra. The first session provided an overview of IEPs and 504s. Come learn and have questions answered. Presented by the PAUSD Special Education Department, Student Services Department, and co-sponsored by Palo Alto CAC,www.cacpaloalto.org  and the Palo Alto Council of PTAs.
Community Service and Service-LearningCommSvc 
Artists for Community Service New
Saturdays, 1/30, 2/6 & 2/13,  10am-1pm and/or 1pm-4pm, Paly Haymarket Theatre
Come help paint the scenery for Paly Theatre's production of Macbeth, while earning community service hours.  No experience necessary, training provided. 
Contact:  Teresa Dewees, scenic designer, [email protected]

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. 
 
Social Media: FacebookTwitterInstagram
Questions? Email [email protected]
 
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: [email protected]
 
**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
Community 
"Unmasked" needs your vote - today! New
The documentary film created by a group of Paly and Gunn students is now available for viewing online. The film has progressed from a field of 32 entries to the Final Round in the >the Student Filmmaker Awards' Online Tournament. You can watch and vote for it here: http://studentfilmmakerawards.com/matchup/1538/
"Unmasked" was born out of the frustration and sadness felt as a result of the most recent teen suicides in our town.  "This film is an honest effort to bring the topic of suicide out of the darkness so that we can open new paths of conversation and work together to find solutions to this tragedy." Join the conversation and help break the stigma. Helpful resources, as well as a link to watch the film after the tournament ends tonight are found on the filmmakers website: www.docxproductions.com. For more info contact [email protected]. Thanks for sharing the message that there is always help.

Camp MAC (journalism summer camp) registration is now open!
Don't miss out on an opportunity to experience Palo Alto High School's state-of-the-art Media Arts Center facilities this summer by participating in Camp MAC! Led by students of Paly's nationally recognized journalism program, Camp MAC introduces journalism to rising eighth and ninth grade students. Campers will learn 21st century literacy skills while building friendships across schools. Camp MAC is running a one-week session the week of Aug. 1-5 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  All proceeds support Paly's Media Arts Boosters Program. For registration, prices, and more information, visit http://paly.io/campmac or contact [email protected]

Mid pen Media Center's - MC Sports Summer Broadcasting Camp New
Calling all Bay Area students who love sports, sports broadcasting or TV production! Students are invited to join us for a week-long Sports Broadcasting Camp. The Media Center's 5thannual MC Sports Broadcasting Summer Camp will be held in Palo Alto California at the Midpen Media Center.
Space is Limited, these camps fill quickly! There are Six Sessions located in Palo Alto. Camp cost is $560 per student. To register go to: http://midpenmedia.org/youth/digiquest/
Students will have the opportunity to learn everything about Live Sports Broadcasting. No one offers such hands-on TV media broadcasting training and experience with access to professional equipment. Students learn valuable broadcasting skills from industry professionals, using our mobile TV production truck. Everyone will learn all crew positions; Directing, Graphics, Audio, Playback, Camera and on air Announcing. At the end of the week-long training the student crew will shoot a live local sporting event, which will be shown on local TV.
And the fun doesn't stop there! All MC Sports Broadcasting Workshop graduates will be invited to join the MC Sports Crew to cover local high school sporting events during the school year. Games are broadcast "Live" on TV and simultaneously streamed on our website. MC Sports crew members receive valuable Community Service hours, a free meal and real-time hands-on "Live" sports broadcasting experience.
Camp cost is $560 per student

2016 Palo Alto Speech and Debate Camp
Week 1: June 13-17, Week 2: July 25-29, Paly
Discover the wonders of public speaking! Conquer your fears once and for all! Learn to think on your feet! Registration for the Palo Alto Speech and Debate Camp is now open! For our eleventh year, we expect the best camp we have ever had, and we are expanding our program to fit this goal. We now offer not only Public Speaking and Debate programs, but also Impromptu Speech and Advanced LD Debate for returning students. The Palo Alto Speech and Debate Camp is the only summer camp in the San Francisco Bay Area that provides rising 6th through 10th graders with the best public speaking learning experience year after year. If you want to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to acquire valuable life skills, register today! More Info: http://palyspeechanddebatecamp.weebly.com/Contact: [email protected]

City of Palo Alto Sustainability and Climate Action Summit 
Sun, Jan. 24, 12-5pm, Jordan Middle School
Join us for a conversation on the future of our City, and help craft solutions to the critical issues facing us now and into the future, such as Transportation, Electrification, Water, Climate Adaptation, and Becoming a Carbon Neutral City. Keynote address will be from Marine Lt. Col. (ret.) Mark Mykleby, who led the development of climate and national security strategy for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, examining how the nation can thrive in the face of climate change.  Event is free but registration required. Details and registration: http://paloaltoclimatesummit.eventbrite.com/

STEM Innovation Bowl

Sat, Jan. 30, 10am-5 pm, Santa Clara Central Park Library, 2635 Homestead Road, Santa Clara
Your Free Ticket to STEM. Families can enjoy learning about the future of immersive technology: virtual reality, augmented reality, telepresence robots, computer vision, 3D video, and gaming (recommended for grades 6 and up). Younger grades will enjoy the Innovation Stations---hands-on areas---where kids can learn about circuit boards, build with blocks and straws, create mosaics using math, interact with robots and launch rockets. Sign up for your FREE tickets at santaclaraca.gov/innovation.

CodeNow Workshop
Sat & Sun, Jan.30-31, and Sat, Feb. 13
FREE for high school students to attend, applications available at codenow.org/apply. Application deadline is Wed, Jan. 13 at midnight. Flyer can be downloaded here and FAQs can be accessed at the bottom of our program webpage

Palo Alto Library -- What to Expect as a College Freshman New
Tues, Feb. 2, 6-7pm, Mitchell Park Library
Going away for college? This informative seminar, presented by C2 education, will discuss how to balance your course load, work, friends, health, finances, and everything else that comes with college life. Register here

Learn about the challenges and opportunities faced by Asian American children, teens and young adults
Wed, Feb. 3, 7-8:30pm (Q&A 8:30-9pm) at CHAC, 590 W El Camino Real, Mountain View
Free talk: Growing up Asian in America: Balancing emotional health and success. Come learn about the special challenges and opportunities faced by Asian American children, teens and young adults, and what their parents can do to help them.  Dr. Hoai-Thu Truong and Dr. Vickie Chang are psychologists who work with high achieving professionals.  Due to the difficulties they see with their Asian clients, they were inspired to promote emotional wellness starting at an earlier age. This talk is for Asian parents (all grades, but especially grades 6-12), Asian American high school teens and young adults, and educators.
For more information and to register see: www.drhttruong.com/asian-parent  or email: [email protected]  Sponsored by CHAC www.chacmv.org

Palo Alto Library -- Knack-4-Knitting New
Wed, Feb. 3, 10, 17 & 24, 4 - 6 PM, Mitchell Park Library
Share & learn knitting skills at this weekly program!

Palo Alto Library -- Parenting Program: Boys & Discipline New
Thu, Feb. 4, 7- 8:30pm, Rinconada Library
This month's topic teaches parents how to guide a boy's energy in a positive and productive manner. Our Parenting Programs are held the first Thursday of every month at Rinconada Libraries through May.

Palo Alto Library -- Teen Writing Club New
Thur, Feb. 4 & 18, 4-5:30pm, Rinconada Library
Share your passion for writing with other teens -for middle and high school students! Writing prompts, activities, and light snacks provided.

Palo Alto Library -- Saturday Board Games New
Sat, Feb. 6, 10am-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.

Palo Alto Library -- VITA: Volunteer Tax Assistance New
Sat, Feb. 6-Apr 9, 10am-3pm,  Mitchell Park Library
Free Income Tax Preparation by VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) IRS-certified volunteers will provide free basic 2015 income tax return preparation to qualified individuals who earned $54,000 or less. First come, first served. Last files accepted no later than 2PM.

Palo Alto Library -- Lunar New Year Celebration New
Sat, Feb. 6, 2-4pm, Mitchell Park Community Center
Enjoy crafts, snacks, and a music performance by the fantastic Firebird Youth Chinese Orchestra.

Palo Alto Library -- Tai Chi New
Sun, Feb. 7, 14, 21 & 28, 10am-12pm, Rinconada Library
You will begin with simple stretching and breathing exercises to create awareness of your body movements and to calm your mind.  This class is open to beginners as well as those who have previous Tai Chi experience. People of all ages are welcome. Group meets every Sunday.

Bay Area High School Research Symposium at Stanford - Call for Abstract  New
Abstract Submission due by Feb. 7, 2016
Symposium Date: Feb 21, 2016
This is a great opportunity for high school students to present their research in the areas of the life sciences, physical sciences, math, computer science, engineering, and the humanities. Come meet student researchers from other schools in the Bay Area. The symposium will also feature a panel discussion with professors and scientists to share their experiences in conducting research and mentoring high school students. Interested? Please visit our website at www.hssymposium.org or email us at [email protected].

Palo Alto Library -- Teen Anti/Valentine's Party New
Wed, Feb. 10, 4-5:30pm, Mitchell Park Library
Make crafts with us to keep for yourself or give away to your valentine. Join us for LED lit up cards, button making, pencil duct tape flowers, contests, and chocolate. Whether you loathe the holiday or not, there is something for everyone. Register here.

Totally Gone with the Wind: The Gunn Choir/Staff Musical, benefiting the Gunn Choir Tour Scholarship Fund New
Tues-Weds, Feb 9 & 10, 8pm, Spangenberg Theatre, 780 Arastradero Road
Join a cast of nearly 200 for the 20th annual Gunn High School Choir/Staff musical! Don't miss this unforgettable evening of rockin' music and sublime satire in this original musical of unbalanced proportions. Designed to out-produce The Producers, Totally Gone with the Wind - presented two nights only - is the story of two lovable scoundrels who set out to create a Broadway flop by turning an American literary classic into a 1970's musical disaster. All proceeds benefit the Gunn Choir Tour Scholarship Fund, providing financial assistance so that all choir students can participate in the concert tour to New York City in April. Tickets are $10 for students and $20 for adults, and are available online at www.gunnchoir.org or at the door. Questions? Contact Choir Board Co-Presidents Liz Matchett ([email protected]) or E.J. Hong ([email protected]). 

12th Annual Sweetheart Awards - Call for Nominations
Nominations due by Feb. 10
Is there a bus driver, friend, teacher, administrator, neighbor, aide, crossing guard, fellow student, therapist, physician, volunteer or relative that has done something (however large or small) for your special needs child? Honor that person by nominating him or her for a Sweetheart Award. Submit nominations using this online form. For more information about the awards, email:  [email protected] or go to the CAC website for ceremony details, www.cacpaloalto.org.

Palo Alto Library -- Exploring Happiness through Meditation & Movement New
Wed, Feb. 10 & 24, 5:30-6:30pm, Rinconada Library
Learn mindfulness through meditation and yoga-middle and high school students are welcome to join us! We meet the second and fourth Wednesday of the month.

Palo Alto Library -- Graphic Novel Book Club New
Thurs, Feb. 11, 7-8pm, Mitchell Park Library
Join the group for a lively discussion on American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang. For adults and teens (age 16+). Register here

Palo Alto Library -- Bay Area Quiz Club New
Sun, Feb 14, 2- 6pm, 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 -- Family Date Night Presents "Family Prom!" New
Fri, Feb 19, 7 - 8:15 PM, Rinconada Library, 1213 Newell Rd.
Put on your dancing shoes because we've got DJ Kevin lined up for an evening of fun. Formal attire is encouraged but not required. Register here.  

Palo Alto Philharmonic Association Orchestra Concert III New
Sat Feb. 20, 8pm, Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St.
Come join the Palo Alto Philharmonic for a night of classics, both old and new. Pianist Daniel Glover will perform Concerto for Piano and Orchestra, written by their own composer-in-residence, Lee Actor. Glover, who debuted the work in 2013.  The concert will also feature Johannes Brahms' Hungarian Dance No. 1 and Symphony No. 7 by Antonin Dvorak
General admission tickets are: General Admission $24, Seniors $20, and Student tickets $12.  Tickets are available in advance from www.paphil.org or at the door one half-hour before the performance.  This concert venue is wheelchair accessible.  For more information, please contact Geri Actor ([email protected])

Submit Your Art to Public Alchemy Exhibit New
The Cubberley Artist Studio Program invites artists to submit work for their inaugural 2016 no-fee entry, open exhibition, Public Alchemy. This open-ended theme is intended to encourage and draw upon a broad range of community perspectives, aesthetic responses, and media. Cubberley Community Center exists to support and cultivate a diverse range of community interests and groups. Public Alchemy seeks to build upon this foundation and make space for artistic exchange and dialogue within and between our neighboring communities. This exhibition is non-juried, and all forms and media are encouraged and will be exhibited, as space allows. Exhibition dates are Feb. 27-March 12. For more information and eligibility requirements, visit http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/documents/50493 

The Palo Alto Children's Theatre presents Mo Willems' ELEPHANT & PIGGIE'S WE ARE IN A PLAY New
Join the Palo Alto Children's Theatre for "Elephant & Piggie's 'We are in a Play,'" based on the classic stories by Mo Willems and featuring a cast of local theatre professionals. Elephant and Piggie, with the help of the nutty backup singers The Squirrels, take the audience on a madcap musical romp about friendship. Running time: approximately 60 minutes. View full performance schedule and purchase tickets at  www.cityofpaloalto.org/childrenstheatre or call (650) 463-4970.

The Palo Alto Swing Dance- a Gunn HS Music Fundraiser New
Sat, Mar. 5, 6:30-10pm, Lucie Stern Ballroom, 1305 Middlefield Rd
You are all invited to join the fun at the Inaugural Palo Alto Swing Dance, a fundraiser for the Gunn High School Music Department.  Swing dance group lessons will be provided along with live music performed by the Gunn Jazz Bands throughout the evening. Each ticket includes swing dance lessons, light food, and non alcoholic drinks throughout the event. Multiple ticket options are available. Tickets & information can be found at  www.paloaltoswingdance.eventbrite.com or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/797783626998473

Pediatric Weight Control Program
When kids and families need more support to maintain a healthy weight, joining a program can be a life-changing step. The Stanford Children's Pediatric Weight Control Program is a six-month program to help kids aged 8 to 15 and their families develop life-long healthy habits. The program is now enrolling for January, with scholarships available for those who qualify. No referrals necessary, just call (650) 725-4424. Flier (English) http://www.stanfordchildrens.org/content-public/pdf/ppwcp-flyer.pdf

Stanford Student Shadowing for Charity
Does your child want an inside look at the life of a Stanford student? Attend classes, view dorms and pick the brain of a current student for 3-hours! The $100 price will raise funds for medications for a Stanford student Pre-Med service trip. We are selling 5 sessions. Contact [email protected].

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 surveyContact: Rebecca Barnett, [email protected], 650-724-7395

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.
Outfitting student bikes for a safe (and legal) ride is a smart investment. For safe school commute information, visit saferoutes.paloaltopta.org/index.shtml 

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 surveyContact: Rebecca Barnett, BCBA [email protected], 650-724-7395.
 
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 [email protected] 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 [email protected].
 
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 [email protected]

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