Paly Link

A PTSA publication

Sunday, January 31, 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
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)
Friday
Feb. 5
9th grade Parent Network Mtg, 8:30am, Stefanski/Brown home: 455 Santa Rita (PTSANew
Tuesday
Feb. 9
Paly Social Justice Pathway Parent/Student Informational Meeting, 7pm, Paly MAC (Paly) New
Wednesday
Feb. 17
Paly Sports Boosters Meeting, 7pm, Anderson/Look home, 1401
Parkinson Ave. (Paly) New
PTSA and PTA AnnouncementsPTSA
Check out the Paly PTSA website
Calling all parents of 2017 Grads! New 
The last year of High School is a very special time for our Seniors.  Let's fill this year with celebrations and joyful memories. PTSA is looking for chairs to host Senior Activities for the 2016/2017 school year.  These positions include:
  • Grad Nite (Chair and Co-chair)
  • Picnic (Chair and Co-chair)
  • Transportation
  • Planning Committee (Chair, Co-Chair, Treasurer)
Please email [email protected] and be part of the team that make 2016/2017 even more extraordinary for our Seniors.

STOP!
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  

9th Grade Parent Network Meeting- Raising Happiness New
Friday, Feb 5th, 8:30 am, Stefanski/Brown home: 455 Santa Rita.
Experience a small sample of the vast research that demonstrates how human happiness is largely learned. We will delve into habits, practices, and ways of thinking that foster happiness in our kids and ourselves. Topics include savoring the good, promotion vs. prevention talk, gratitude, optimism, mindset praise, and kindness. Learn about the research on these topics as well as a few easy ideas to implement for yourself and your children. Our presenter is Melissa Beressi, M.Ed. is an educator with over 25 years experience as a teacher, teacher trainer, and teacher coach. She is also a mom to two teens. Questions? Karen Hickey [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


'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 Sports Boosters Meeting
   New
Wed, Feb 17th, 7pm, Anderson/Look home, 1401 Parkinson Ave.
Come to the February Paly Sports Boosters meeting at the home of co-president, Melissa Anderson. We'll get an update from Athletic Director Kathi Bowers about the winter sports season and the start of spring season. We're gearing up for our annual auction scheduled for Saturday, April 30th - come hear how you and your team can help with the effort!

Paly Social Justice Pathway Parent/Student Informational Meeting 
New 
Tues. Feb. 9 7pm, Paly MAC
Parents & students: Come find out more about this exciting learning opportunity.  At this meeting, you'll learn more about the SJP's interdisciplinary and project-based approach to small community learning. Parents AND students welcome.  Current students will share their experiences and impressions.  Teachers will be on-hand to answer questions.
RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/paly-social-justice-pathway-informational-meeting-tickets-15458931079

Attention spring sports parents: Viking Sports Magazine  New
Viking Sports Magazine is creating a full-color, glossy sports program that will include schedules and Rosters of all spring sports, as well as some candid photos and stories on athletes. We would like to offer parents and local business owners the opportunity to advertise in this program. The unique aspect of this publication will be to provide a chance for parents to include a "young athlete" ad; if you have adorable photos of your child as a little leaguer, for instance, we can create an ad for you. If you are a local business owner and would like to support the Viking, that would also be much appreciated. Ad rates are as follows:

Quarter-page $125
Half-page $200
Full-page $350

We intend to print 1000 copies for free distribution at spring sports events. Please contact Viking adviser Brian Wilson at [email protected] if you are interested in advertising or if you have any questions.

Powerful New Library Research Tool OneSearch Discovery 
New
Students can find reliable books, e-books, newspaper and journal articles using the powerful new OneSearch Discovery research tool http://www.paly.net/academics/library. At home they will need their library login password available on Schoology and via My PAUSD. 
Rachel Kellerman, Paly Teacher Librarian

C Magazine: Subscription now open!
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
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

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  
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).


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  
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.

Foothill Middle College: Sophomores   New
Thursday, Feb. 25th, lunch 11:30am-12:15pm, LCR
Representatives from Foothill's Middle College program will be in the LCR to meet with interested Sophomores.  You'll learn more about the program and the application process.   Parents are welcome too.  If you have further questions concerning the application process, please contact Middle College at (650) 949-7168.  All high school counselors have brochures and application materials can be downloaded from: http://www.mvla.net/District/Department/149-Alternative-Programs/2732-Untitled.html

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 February 15, 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.

The Princeton Prize in Race Relations: Deadline 1/31
CIF/CCS Scholar-Athlete Award: Deadline 2/1
Colorado State University: Deadline  2/1                      
DePauw University - Rector/Holton/Bonner Scholarships: Deadline 2/1               
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) Scholarship: Deadline 2/1                                                 
eQuality Scholarship Collaborative: Deadline 2/1
National Co-Op Scholarship: Deadline 2/1     
The Joyce-Ridgway Scholarship: Deadline  2/1                            
Stephanie Brown Cadet Memorial Foundation Scholarship: Deadline 2/5  NEW
Lions International - Student Speakers Contest: Deadline 2/11  NEW
Asian Pacific Community Fund - Chen Foundation Scholarship: Deadline 2/15 NEW
Asian Pacific Community Fund - Taiwanese American Scholarship Fund: Deadline 2/15  NEW
Palo Alto Rotary Club - Vocational Scholarships: Deadline 2/15  NEW               
SCAD Distinguished Scholars Award: Deadline 2/15  NEW                       
Young Visionary Contest: Deadline 2/15   NEW 
PAUSD
Tracy Cross Parent Education Event  New
Weds, Feb. 10, 6-8pm, PAUSD Board Room
The Student Services office is hosting a Parent Education event on Wednesday, Feb 10, 2016 from 6:00pm - 8:00pm in the PAUSD Board Room.  Dr. Tracy L. Cross  will be talking to parents about the unique needs of high performing students as it relates to social emotional learning, mental health, issues of perfectionism and development of coping skills.  Dr. Cross is well known in the area of high performing students and their social-emotional needs and will share practical recommendations for parents.  You can learn more about Dr. Cross at: http://www.nagc.org/bio/tracy-l-cross. <http://www.nagc.org/bio/tracy-l-cross.>
This event is focused on students at the secondary level.

Meeting the Social and Emotional Needs of High Performing Students  New
Wed, Feb 10, 6 - 8 PM, 25 Churchill (District Board Room), Palo Alto 
Social and emotional learning is critical to the success of youth. It a process through which youth acquire and effectively apply knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and handle emotions, set and accomplish goals, feel and demonstrate empathy for others, and develop and maintain positive relationships. This discussion will be led by nationally renowned Dr. Tracy L. Cross and will help parents deepen their understanding of: How to communicate with their youth, How to develop home environment in which youth feel genuinely supported and accepted, How to help students develop a healthy work/life balance.  Light refreshments and childcare (5 yr and older) available. Sponsored by PAUSD Student Service Office. Info: [email protected] or 650-833-4208

Special Board Meeting: Budget Study Session  New
Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2016, 8:30-10:30am

Community Service and Service-LearningCommSvc 
Help Palo Alto Students Adopt the Growth Mindset New
The Heroic Imagination Project, a non-profit organization founded by renowned Stanford Professor Philip Zimbardo, has created the learning tools and training to teach students the Growth Mindset.  The Growth Mindset is based on extensive social science research and refers to positive thinking and action that combines our natural ability with genuine effort to achieve higher results. The Growth Mindset enables us to achieve our goals in a more productive, effective way with less stress.
Freshmen from Palo Alto High School are raising money to license the content and obtain the training that will enable them to teach the Growth Mindset to hundreds of Palo Alto Students.  Please help our students adopt the Growth Mindset. Follow the link below to watch a video about this student-led initiative and to donate. Every dollar counts for our kids. We appreciate your support. https://www.tilt.com/tilts/help-students-learn-the-growth-mindset
 
Artists for Community Service
 
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 
2016 Summer High School Internship with Magical Bridge Foundation New
Designed to be "magical" in every way, the Magical Bridge Foundation's high school internship program captures the essence of Silicon Valley with a 5 week rotation through our various business and community assignments. 10 community-minded teens will be selected to work with industry experts on projects involving public and media relations, digital and social media, content and video creation, nonprofit development, fundraising, sales, marketing and advocacy.
Interns must be available to work from June 20, 2016 until July 22, 2016 onsite at Magical Bridge Foundation (located in North Palo Alto), Monday through Friday, 1pm to 5pm.
Who may apply? Current high school 10th ,11th and 12th graders.
Kindly submit your applications here by February 14, 2016. Offers will be extended in early March, 2016. Link to description of Magical Bridge Foundation internship program and application:  bit.ly/1RLuh2E

DreamCatchers - Looking for Adult Volunteers  New
Want to help close the achievement gap?  DreamCatchers runs a free after-school tutoring program for low-income PAUSD middle school students, pairing them with volunteers. We are looking for adult volunteers for hands-on tutoring and back office support (data, communications, handbooks).  A few hours a week, work with Excel, Word, Google Drive, Dropbox, Slack, or tutor a student.  Contact Barbara Sih Klausner  [email protected].  www.dreamcatchersyouth.org.
 

"Unmasked" needs your vote - today!
 
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  
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]

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  
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  
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  
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 Strong: A Teen Movement to Promote Resilience and Empathy  New
Sat, Feb. 6, 6 - 10 PM. Mitchell Park Community Center
The City of Palo Alto in partnership with Palo Alto Youth Council will host its second annual teen forum.  During this student-centered forum, teens will have the opportunity to participate in a series of dialogue circles, led by teen-selected adult facilitators, about topics that teens have identified as important to them and critical to their well-being. Topics will include: Dealing with Stress; Building Strong 
Relationships; Tackling Mental Illness; Helping a Friend in Need; and Daily Life Choices. The purpose of the dialogue circles is to encourage teens to have open and honest dialogue in a safe environment with trusted adult facilitators. Teens can share ideas on maintaining the social, mental, and physical well-being of Palo Alto youth, while contributing to the community's commitment to elevate the teen voice.   To RSVP or for more information go to https://www.facebook.com/events/1057563444283339/

Palo Alto Library -- Saturday Board Games
 
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  
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  
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  
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   
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].

Let's Talk  New
Mon Feb 8, 10am-12pm, Orchard Community Room, Los Altos Library, 13 S. San Antonio Road
A chance to ask questions and share ideas, resources, and support with other parents of students with IEPs, 504s, learning differences, mental health challenges, etc.  All are welcome, participants must respect confidentiality.
This parent education event is sponsored by the SELPA 1 CAC (www.selpa1cac.org) an all-volunteer group of parents of children with special needs.  All of our events are free and open to anyone who feels they might benefit.  No registration is necessary.

Palo Alto Library -- Teen Anti/Valentine's Party
 
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  
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
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
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
 
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!"
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
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
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
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
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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