Paly Link

A PTSA publication
Sunday, May 15, 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
MondayMay 16Advanced Authentic Research program Showcase, 7pm, JLS Cafetorium (PAUSD) New
Monday
May 16
Paly Robotics Parents and Boosters Meeting, 7:30pm, Room 903 (Paly) New
Tuesday
May 17
SBAC Testing -11th Grade, 8:15am-1pm; Non-Instructional Day: All Grades (Paly) New
Tuesday
May 17
Cookie donations needed, before 4pm, Career Ctr in Library (CommSvc)  New
Tuesday
May 17
2nd Semester Service-Learning and President's Award Ceremony, 7-8:30pm, Library/LCR
Tuesday
May 17Parent Appreciation Party, 5:30-7pm, Vino Locale (Paly)
Tuesday
May 17
Friends of Paly Choirs Meeting, 7:30pm, Library (Paly) New
Wednesday
May 18
SBAC Testing -11th Grade, 8:15am-1pm; Non-Instructional Day: All Grades Paly New
Wednesday
May 18Sports Boosters Meeting,  7pm, 3180 Ross Road (Paly)
ThursdayMay 19
Paly Choirs' Small Ensembles Concert, 7:30pm, PAC (Paly) New
Friday
May 20Paly Dance Spring Show,  7pm, Gunn High School Titan Gym (Paly)
 
PTSA and PTA AnnouncementsPTSA
Check out the Paly PTSA website

PTSA is looking for volunteers! Updated

 

PTSA is still looking for volunteers to lead the following committees and events: 
  • Auditor for July 2016-December 2016
  • Class of 2019 Spirit Week Parent Coordinators (2)
  • Class of 2020 Spirit Week Parent Coordinators (2)
  • Welcome Back to School Dinner (2) 
  • 3rd Paly Link Editor
  • Club Day Parent Coordinator (2) 
  • Field Day Parent Coordinator (2)
  • Reflections Art Coordinator
  • Landscape/Campus Beautification Parent
  • Corresponding Secretary Assistant (coordinating the Back to School mailings)
  • Staff Event Leaders: 
    • Back to School Lunch (August)
    • Holiday Lunch (December)
    • February Staff Development Day
    • Staff Appreciation (April)
Questions?  Contact Chris Chang, Nominating Committee (cycampen@gmail.com, (650) 326-6916 home)
 
Seniors and Parents of Seniors: It's Time to Order Tickets for Grad Events!
- The Grad Events Committee has planned exciting events for graduating seniors: the Senior Picnic on May 31 and the Grad Night Party on June 1. All families were sent packets with information, order forms and consent forms. If you didn't receive the information, you can pick it up in the Paly main office. Note that prices are now $280 for both picnic & party.  $90 for the picnic only, and $215 for the party only.  Scholarships are available by contacting Susan Shultz at sshultz@pausd.org. Final deadline for receipt of forms and payment is May 23. For more information, contact palygradevents@gmail.com.
- We need your help to make both the Senior Picnic and Grad Night Party a success! Please read more about the details of the events and sign up to help at  http://goo.gl/CWDY5J. Contact Laura Ma at buenamadre@gmail.com should you have any questions.

New Resources To Support Students
The Mental Health and Wellness Staff at Paly have created two new ways for students to reach out and refer themselves or a friend/classmate for support. Parents can be helpful by making sure they are aware of these resources:
1.  Refer-A-Friend Boxes -  two Refer-A-Friend Boxes on campus that are monitored 1x/day during the school day, mounted on the wall in the Tower hallway next to Guidance, as well as the wall next to the library exit door leading into the quad.  These boxes are intended to be a means for students to write the name of a friend that they are concerned about and would like someone on the Paly Support team to check in with.  If they would like to remain anonymous, they can choose to do so.
2. Palysupport@pausd.org - Students (or parents) can choose to e-mail Palysupport@pausd.org with concerns or referral information.  The e-mail is monitored daily during school hours by the School Psychologists and Mental Health and Wellness Coordinator.
Thank you for your support in making this a safe and welcoming school for all of our students.
 
Americanized Chinese Parents of Paly
This is a group for Americanized Chinese Parents of Paly and Jordan students who embrace both the values of American culture and Chinese culture. Parents in this group speak English in their homes and value a balance of academics, social time, and extracurriculars. To be added to our mailing list, please email your name to: 
 
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. 

Meals on Wheels Volunteers Needed
The Paly Meals on Wheels program needs more volunteers to bring emergency meals to Paly families in crisis. If you're interested in being on the Meals on Wheels' list of volunteers, please email Liz Lee, Meals on Wheels Volunteer Coordinator at liz@funghi.com. Please include your day and evening phone number(s).
Are you a family in crisis and in need of help with some dinners delivered to your door? Send an email and we'll try to help. Please include any dietary restrictions. Questions? Call me at 650 843-0413.
Paly ItemsPaly
paly viking ship logo


Paly Robotics Parents and Boosters Meeting New
Mon, May 16, 7:30pm, Paly Robotics Lab (Room 903)
Parents and Robotics Boosters:   Come to the Boosters Board of Directors meeting to find out about and support the team.  If you have questions email palyroboticsboosters@gmail.com

SBAC Testing New
Tues-Wed, May 17- 18
ALL 11th GRADE STUDENTS will test from 8:15-1:00 each day
A reminder that all 11th grade students will be participating in the Smarter Balanced testing next week.  The schedule for the week is below.  The testing center will be open. 
Monday         5/16/16    B day
Tuesday         5/17/16    SBAC test 11th graders, Non-Instructional Day (No classes for any students)
Wednesday    5/18/16    SBAC test 11th graders, Non-Instructional Day (No classes for any students)
Thursday        5/19/16   A day
Friday             5/20/16  Special Schedule (7 periods)

Friends of Paly Choirs (FOPC) Meeting  New
Tues, May 17, 7:30pm, Library 
Join us for the final FOPC meeting of the year as we plan for our next year of choir activities!  

Paly Choirs' Small Ensembles Concert New
Thurs, May 19, 7:30pm, Paly Performing Arts Center (PAC)
Join us for our inaugural concert at the Palo Alto High School Performing Art Center.  Join our award winning choirs for our final concert of the year and our first concert in this wonderful new facility.   This Concert will feature all of our ensembles plus our a cappella groups in competition for the Hewlett Trophy.

Prior to the concert, the Friends of Paly Choirs and the Performing Arts Boosters will celebrate the completion of the PAC with mocktails on the patio starting at 6pm.  At 6:15 we will have an exclusive tour of the backstage areas of the new PAC, including a demonstration of the incredible audio system.  Funds from the 2008 Facilities Bond built this beautiful new facility. However, starting up this center adds costs that were not included in the construction budget.  We are suggesting that a donation of $100 or more for this special backstage tour.   All donations of $100 or more will be acknowledged on our Donor Appreciation Wall in the Lobby.

Morning Munchies During Finals - Volunteers Needed  
May 31 - June 2, 8:45-10:15am, meet at the Library for instructions
Are you looking for an opportunity to support our students?  We need volunteers to set up and supervise snack distribution tables around campus during finals.  This is a great way to meet parents and to wish our students good luck!  Please sign up at http://tinyurl.com/gvpjsrb. This program is sponsored by the PTSA and Paly.  Questions?  Contact Gayle  Black: black.gayle@gmail.com, Sondra Zenger: Sondra.zenger@gmail.com, or Marci Kirk Stevens: marcikirkstevens@gmail.com

Parent Appreciation Party  
Tues, May 17, 5:30-7pm, Vino Locale, 431 Kipling Street
Yummy food and a no-host bar will be provided. Come enjoy some conviviality with your fellow Paly parents. RSVP please online or to Beth Martin, Volunteer Coordinator, Palo Alto High School, Bmartin@pausd.org. Hope you can join us!! 

Final Paly Sports Boosters Meeting of the year
Wed, May 18, 7pm, Weinstein home, 3180 Ross Road
Come to the final Paly Sports Boosters meeting of the year at the home of co-president, Christy Weinstein. We'll get an update from Athletic Director Kathi Bowers, recap our end of the year fundraising efforts and look ahead to next year's plan. Hope you'll join us! Thanks for supporting Paly Sports Boosters and Paly Athletics.

Paly Dance Spring Show
Fri, May 20, 70m, Gunn High School Titan Gym
This May, Paly's Varsity dance team is showcasing all of their routines they have peformed, choreographed, and worked on throughout the year... and we're inviting you! Not only will you be able watch an award-winning team, but you'll also be helping raise money for our team members. We could really use your help and support to not only build back our budget from this year, but also build up support and awareness of our team for our next season. We've got some AMAZING routines, outside performances from Paly students and student groups, raffle tickets, prizes, and much more! The Paly dance team can't wait to see you there. 
Tickets: available for purchase online OR in-person from Hilary McDaniel, Alanna Williamson, or a member of the Paly Dance Team

Junior Parents Needed: Host Graduation Day Reception for Seniors  
Traditionally Paly's Junior class hosts a Reception for the graduating Seniors and more than 2,000 family and friends immediately following the Graduation Ceremony.  How can you help?  Please "pay it forward" and donate!  Suggested donation of $25 (or more) may be made by check payable to Rebecca Passarello and sent to 63 Morton Way, 94303 or to PayPal account rebeccap@stanfordalumni.org. Any funds donated over the amount needed to feed 2400 people will be donated to our class fund for graduation activities for our seniors next year. And remember, next year's juniors will host this event for our class.  Sign up to help prepare and serve food on Wednesday, June 1, here.

Graduation Leis On Sale Now! 
Leis symbolize affection and are presented to graduates as they are leaving their school and arriving at a new stage of life. Choose from fresh orchid leis or yummy candy leis. Orders are due by May 19th so don't delay. Go to www.palycheer.net to place your order today. Pick up is on graduation day, Wed. June 1st from 1-5pm at Paly. If you have questions contact Hilary McDaniel at hmcdaniel@pausd.org.

Purchase a Seat for the Performing Arts Center 
You can become a permanent part of the new Performing Arts Center by "buying" a seat in the theatre. With your donation of $250, $500 or $1000 (depending on location) you can have a brass plate engraved with your name or student's name installed permanently on a seat in the new PAC. At the same time, you'll be making a fully tax deductible gift that will be used to purchase furnishings and equipment for the PAC that aren't covered by the bond funds. 
We've made the process as easy as possible.  Please go to www.palypab.com for more information, including details on how to purchase your seat.

Adolescent Counseling Services (ACS) 
This month's blog post focuses on Wellness for Teens can be found at: http://www.acs-teens.org/wellness-focused-for-teens/

Support 'Rise Together Education' 
Rise Together Education, Palo Alto High School's newly formed foundation, 
is dedicated to improving college graduation rates by providing mentoring and financial resources to low-income Palo Alto High School students and graduates, who have excelled academically and been accepted to 4-year colleges or 2-year community colleges with a direct transfer agreement. In order to launch the 19 Paly seniors who have applied for scholarship support, we need your help!   
Your generous donation to our foundation will help "bridge the gaps" between the financial aid packages, grants and family means to pay tuition that typically straddle our low income and/or first generation students. Your tax deductible contribution will also pay for unexpected items, such as housing deposits, that might arise before financial aid packages have been fully awarded.  Our goal is to provide yearly scholarships ranging in the amount of $500 to $10,000 per year per student.  To donate, simply click here.  
You can also help by spreading the word and "liking" our Facebook page!  https://facebook.com/risetogethereducation/
 
Attention Students and Parents of Class of 2016  
- By now you should have received a mailer at home detailing all of the Senior Grad Events. If not, you can pick up the packet in the Paly main office. 
- For scholarships, the correct contact is Susan Shultz at sshultz@pausd.org or 650.329.3712.
- If you'd like to help with grad events, look for the separate announcement in this and future Paly Link emails. 
- For more information, contact palygradevents@gmail.com.

Powerful New Library Research Tool OneSearch Discovery 
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

Paly Parent Parties
If you loved Jordan's Just Parties, come make it a reality at Paly. This is a wonderful way to welcome new families to Paly and meet up with all of your Paly friends in a fun and relaxing way. Next school year we'll launch Paly Parent Parties, the same concept but parties just for parents and guardians. I'm looking for a few (or maybe many) volunteers to kick this off for the upcoming school year. Those wanting to be on the planning committee, host a party or host the sign up party please sign up here and/or email me  Cindy Roberts  cinroberts@sbcglobal.net    

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

Fiery Arts Glass Workshops at Palo Alto High School
May 21-22, June 4-5, 9-3 pm at Paly's Glass Studio
Weekend glass workshops are available to the public: students, parents and community members. The 2 day weekend workshop will focus on beginning glass blowing techniques. Repeating  students progress from their last session.  Advanced Sign up required. Class limit is 4. Teens and adults.  NEW price, $425 per person. Proceeds benefit the Palo Alto High School Fiery Arts.  To sign up, contact: David Camner, founder of Paly Glass, dcamner@pausd.org 
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
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 (klarson@pausd.org) 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 their College Advisor notifying them of their scheduled meeting date and time. Students should add their College Advisor's email address (scernobori@pausd.org or aerber@pausd.org) in their contact list so the email doesn't get filtered to their email provider's  SPAM folder.  If students don't receive an email appointment within a week, please email your College Advisor.  Students using an email provider that offers a calendar feature (like Yahoo or Google) should verify the calendar is set to the Pacific time zone, rather than another default time zone, so the emailed appointment indicates the correct time.

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).

College visits through May 23:
Bowdoin College   5/16/16 7:00 PM   Menlo Park
Carleton College   5/16/16 7:00 PM   Menlo Park
Pomona College   5/16/16 7:00 PM   Menlo Park
Swarthmore College   5/16/16 7:00 PM   Menlo Park
Duke University   5/17/16   7:00 PM   Place San Jose
Georgetown University   5/17/16   7:00 PM   Place San Jose
Harvard University   5/17/16   7:00 PM   Place San Jose
University of Pennsylvania   5/17/16   7:00 PM   San Jose
Stanford University   5/17/16   7:00 PM   Place San Jose

Scholarships and contests/competitions expiring through May 23: 
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.

Mount Holyoke - Transportation Assistance for Focus on Diversity Visit Prog.: Deadline 5/8                               
Italian American Heritage Foundation: Deadline 5/10 
Cameron Impact Scholarship: Deadline 5/13
Clarkson University Leadership and Achievement Awards Program: Deadline 5/15                       
Kaiser African American Professional Association(KPAAPA) Scholarship: Deadline 5/19
Robbie Engelmann Memorial Scholarship for Free Tutoring: Deadline 5/23 New
PAUSD PAUSD

PAUSD's Advanced Authentic Research (AAR) program inaugural Celebratory Showcase Presentation
Mon, May 16, 7pm, JLS Cafetorium
This presentation is an opportunity for AAR students from Palo Alto and Gunn High Schools to share their research and final projects, which they have been developing over the year.  We welcome the Palo Alto High School community to come to meet and connect with student presenters and their mentors.  Also, come to enjoy a wonderful opportunity for all PAUSD students and parents to experience an academic high school research project at work.  Enjoy light refreshments and compelling student.  
RSVP not required but recommend by sending an email to: <aar@pausd.org>.

PAUSD/Harvard Systems Review Survey New
Dear PAUSD Parents and Guardians, 
We want to make you aware that you should be receiving a notification asking you to participate in a survey through which you can provide important feedback on PAUSD's support services for students. The Harvard Systems Review Survey of our Supports for students with disabilities launched today and will remain open until May 24.  Teachers and administrators also are being asked to participate. We are hopeful to bring back to the Board recommendations in mid-late June, and hold several open town hall meetings to review the results.  Please be on the lookout for the e-mail that was sent through our PAUSD research department and came from Dr. Tom Hehir, a senior faculty member at Harvard University who is leading this research. If you have any questions regarding this survey, please contact Monica Ng, the study director, at monica.alice.ng@gmail.com. Thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback. 

PAUSD Invites Parents and Community Members to Participate on the Math Exploration/Pilot Committee
During 2015-16 academic year, Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD) elementary mathematics leads and teachers have been involved in a Math Exploration of math materials.  The Math Materials being explored are on display at the District office, located at 25 Churchill Ave. in Palo Alto, for community members to view and complete a comment form.  The Elementary Math Exploration/Pilot Committee will select 2-3 curricula to pilot during the upcoming 2016-17 academic year.  PAUSD is requesting community members and K-6 teachers to participate on the Math Exploration/Pilot Committee.  Parents and community members who are interested in becoming a member, should complete the Community Member Application.
For more information, parents and community members are invited to visit the "Committees and Task Forces" section on the school district's website.
Community Service and Service-LearningCommSvc 
Cookie Donations Needed for President's & Service-Learning Award Ceremony   New
Tues, May 17, before 4pm, Career Center in library
20 dozen cookies (no-nuts) needed. If you are able to bring cookies they can be delivered to the Career Center inside the  library on Tuesday the 17th before 4pm. Questions, please contact Christina Owen, cowen@pausd.org. Thank you so much. 

President's Award & Service-Learning Award Ceremony 
Tues, May 17,  7-8:30m, Library/LCR
President's Award & Service-Learning Award Ceremony is a chance to celebrate the wonderful achievements of all of Paly's Community Engagement Scholars. This year, we will be honoring three category of students with special awards: (1) 2016 Spring President's Award Winners, (2) Seniors who only ever submitted hours to be put on their transcript and never applied for President's Award, (3) Get Involved Palo Alto Interns. If you fall into any of these categories, your student and family should have received or will soon receive an email and letter inviting you to join us on May 17th, 7:00pm-8:30pm in the library. If you believe you fall into one of these categories and have not received an invitation, please email us immediately at with your student's full name and the category of award recipients your student falls into: volunteer@getinvolvedpa.com

Community Service Opportunity: National River Clean Up Day 
Saturday, May 21, 9 a.m. to noon, Baylands (Matadero or Adobe Creek)
The City of Palo Alto is hosting one Clean Up site (Matadero: site 16) and Acterra is hosting site 17 (Adobe) to clean up litter in the Baylands.  Please go to www.cleanacreek.org to sign up and be sure to bring your waivers.  Three hours of community service will be available.

Get Involved Service-Learning Internship Academy: June 3-30, 2016 
Parents, help your students pursue their interests, talents, and passions this summer with a  service-learning internship! Palo Alto students will learn 21st Century skills such as collaboration, risk-taking, workplace communication, electronic portfolios, and more as they are matched with a mentor at a local nonprofit or community agency. All current high school students are eligible (Classes of 2016-2019). Program runs June 3-30, each Academy participant will earn a certificate of completion and the President's Award for Volunteer Service. Questions? Please email: internships@getinvolvedpa.com
Classroom Volunteers Needed - An Hour a Week Could Change a Student's Life
Have you enjoyed volunteering in your child's classroom? Then consider visiting a classroom in east Menlo Park or East Palo Alto.  Our All Students Matter volunteers work once a week for about an hour on reading and math skills with kids in grades K-4.  Sign up now to start in September. Training will be provided. To learn more or sign up, visit www.allstudentsmatter.org or contact Keri Tully at keritully@gmail.com.

Help Kids in Grades K-4 with Reading or Math - You Could Change a Life New
Please join other parents volunteering with All Students Matter in grades K-4 in east Menlo Park and East Palo Alto schools. You'll work in the same classroom once a week, building a relationship with the teacher and students, and be able to see the progress achieved. The students are always eager to work with you and you'll have real impact in a community where over 80% of students are performing below grade level in reading and math.  Sign up now to start in September - we provide training and coordinate everything. To learn more or to sign up, please visit our web site at www.allstudentsmatter.org or contact Keri Tully at keritully@gmail.com.

Ronald McDonald House Volunteer Opportunity for Teens New
Do you have a teen looking to do something amazing this summer?  Ronald McDonald House is currently recruiting volunteer counselors for Camp Ronald McDonald, a 10 week summer program where children of all ages can be themselves and have fun! Camp Ronald McDonald is free for patients and siblings staying at the House or Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford.  Most camp activities take place at the House where campers will participate in activities such as cooking, outdoor play, science projects, gardening, and more. Lunch and snacks are provided daily. Once a week, campers take a chaperoned trip to a local activity or attraction. Volunteers must be 16 or older and able to commit to at least two days per week (Monday/Tuesday or Thursday/Friday), for a minimum of one session. The first session is June 6th through July 8th, and the second session starts July 11th and goes through August 12th.  Learn more! 

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: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
Questions? Email info@getinvolvedpa.com
 
Know of a community benefit organization or upcoming opportunity to share? 
Hundreds of nonprofits and grassroots programs have collaborated with Paly students to get involved in their interests while documenting 30,000-40,000 service-learning hours each year. Students write reflections, create programs, videos, slideshows, and service-learning magazines that inspire their collegues to make connections from classroom to community. See student-led Get Involved publications and website for list of vetted organizations by category. Email: Getinvolvedpaloalto@gmail.com. 
 
**Get Involved Project is a social venture created with, by, and for Palo Alto students. Our work is informed and inspired by the following: Dr. William Damon/Stanford, The Path to Purpose;  service-learning Common Core advocate Katherine Berger Kaye, ; Richard N. Bolles, What Color is Your Parachute; and Dr. Denise Clark Pope/Stanford, www.challengesuccess.org. 
Community 
Children's Used Book Sale to Benefit Palo Alto Libraries 
Sun, May15, 10am-4pm, Cubberley Community Center (FOPAL Children's Sale Room)
More than 13,000 kids' books, games, puzzles, CDs, and DVDs will be on sale at incredibly low prices at Friends of the Palo Alto Library's monthly book sale-  everything from board books and picture books to school age fiction and nonfiction titles to early teen fiction.  All items are lightly used or new and are sorted by age level and subject matter.  Many books in foreign languages.  Over 50,000 adult books available in FOPAL's Main and Bargain Rooms.  www.fopal.org

Community Programs at Packard Children's Hospital hosting our now 3rd annual Smart Sendoffs 
Sun, May 15,2-5 pm 
Community Programs at Packard Children's Hospital will be hosting our now 3rd annual Smart Sendoffs: An Off-to-College Health Guidance for Students and Their Parents. It will once again be presented by the Division of Adolescent Medicine at Stanford. The 3 hour program will include honest and open discussions on nutrition, sleep, independence, mental health, immunizations, finding health resources at school as well as parties, sex, substance use and relationships. Interactive learning will occur in both large group format with parents and teens together and in smaller separated groups.  To register, visit: classes.stanfordchildrens.org or call 650-724-4601.

Silicon Valley Boychoir Auditions New
Thurs/Fri, May 19-20 by appointment, Palo Alto
Auditions for the 2016-2017 season are held at the choir's rehearsal location near downtown Palo Alto (600 Homer Ave). Open to 2nd-5th grade boys in the fall. High school and middle school boys with experience may audition for upper levels. SVB provides a personalized approach to teaching singing, music theory, and sight-singing, and provides flexible scheduling for busy families. In addition to their own winter and spring concerts, SVB has performed for local events including performances with West Bay Opera, Schola Cantorum of Mountain View, and singing the national anthem at sporting events. 

CodeDay Bay Area 
May 21-22, noon-noon, Galvanize San Francisco 
Paly students are invited to CodeDay, a 24-hour event where students can pitch ideas, form teams, learn from interesting workshops, and build a cool app or game. This event is great for any students wishing to build something from what they've learned in class or even just wanting to get started out. Register now during the early bird period for 50% off, and use the the promo code PALY to get an additional 5% off. No experience necessary! For more information and to register, visit https://codeday.org/svor contact justin@studentrnd.org.

Project Safety Net Community Collaborative Meeting New
Wed, May 25, 4-6pm, Lucie Stern Center Community Ballroom
Please RSVP via Eventbrite.
Are you interested in reducing youth mental health stigma and supporting youth voice? Please join us at our next Project Safety Net Community Collaborative (PSN) meeting  At this month's meeting, PSN is celebrating May is Mental Health Matters Month with a lime green ribbon activity. We will be featuring two presentations: Bryant Street Garage Fund, and Vic and Mary Ojakian will talk about their suicide prevention activities. Project Safety Net is a collaborative community network working together in the interest of fostering youth well-being in Palo Alto. Newsletter sign-up here

Buoyancy 2016 - Free Teen Festival New
Sun, Jun 5, 4:30- 8:30pm, Mitchell Park, 600 East Meadow Drive
The City of Palo Alto - Community Services Department announces the first annual Buoyancy Festival, a free event for teens.  The event will feature live teen bands with headliner band Pacific Drive, art and wellness tents, live mural painting, carnival rides and a big ball inflatable.  Plus the first 500 teens to enter will receive a free meal voucher.  Show high school ID for entry

SAT Practice Test New
Sat, Jun 11, 1 -4:30pm, Mitchell Park Library
Students in grades 7 and up are invited to take a practice SAT test at the library. SAT review session is on June 26.

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: palyspeechanddebate@gmail.com

Teen summer camps and drop-in sessions at the Palo Alto Art Center 
Unleash the creativity in your student by coming to a teen drop-in session or signing up for one of our Teen Summer Camps: Printmaking Intensive (June 13-17), Altered Ceramics (June 27 - July 8) and more! Weekly drop-in sessions for Ceramics, Jewelry and Printmaking.  Register Online now for a camp or check out the Teen Drop-In Schedule.
Questions? Please contact Rebecca Passarello (rebecca.passarello@cityofpaloalto.org or 650-617-3509).

DesignFarm Summer Camp at Palo Alto High School  
June 13 to June 24 and July 11 to 22
Calling all rising 8th to 12th graders. Do you want to solve real world problems and possibly create the next .... ?
Join us for a fun-filled two weeks of learning and doing. Get inspired with the support of community mentors, experts and master design thinkers. No design experience is necessary. Just bring your creativity, your sense of fun and your desire to solve problems that are important to you and your community.
Visit the events page at www.thedfarm.org  for more information and registration.

8th Annual Palo Alto World Music Day  
Sun, June 19, 3-7:30 PM, University Avenue (closed to traffic)
The City of Palo Alto has declared Sunday June 19 as World Music Day.  World Music Day is a free music festival that takes place in cities around the world every year around the Summer Solstice.  50 professional and amateur musical groups will perform a wide variety of musical genres: jazz, pop, rock, classical, world music, choral, etc.  All performances are FREE and open to the public.  This is a fun and unique family event not to be missed. The organizers are also looking for musicians and event volunteers from our community, including students from our schools.  Info: www.pamusicday.org

Summer Rock Camp  
Week 1: July 11 to July 15
Week 2: July 18 to July 22
Week 3: July 25 to July 29
Locally owned by Michael Finley, a former Paly graduate and parent of a Paly graduate, SRC immerses campers completely in live music and performance for a full week with long day sessions (9AM to 3PM) culminating in a Friday evening concert where they showcase their new music skills and featured songs crafted over the week in front of a live audience including family, friends, and peers.
Info:  www.summerrockcamp.com

Paly Robotics Summer Camp 2016 (for middle school students, incoming 6th - incoming 9th)
July 18-22, July 25-29, Aug. 1-5, The Paly Robotics Lab (Room 903 at Palo Alto High School)
Do you want your child to experience what it is like to design and build robots?  Or how about learning how to program and create 3D animations? What about creating a business plan and promoting it with a website? This year, Paly Robotics will be hosting our annual summer camp for incoming middle school students (incoming 6th - 9th). There are three sessions to choose from - Robot Design and Hardware; Programming and 3D Animation; and Entrepreneurship and Website Design. For more information about our camp and the different sessions, visit palyrobotics.com/summercamp.

Filmmaking Workshop for Teen Actors and Directors  
Mon-Fri, Aug. 1-Aug. 5, 10am-4pm, Pear Theatre, Mountain View 
The acclaimed A Theatre Near U's Summer Filmmaking Workshop is back! Join us for a week long exploration of film. The intensive will provide 30 hours of in depth training. Students will learn the core concepts of great film work by watching classics and then the directors will create their own films with the actors.
For more information and to register go to: http://atheatrenearu.org/home/category/slate/
 
Paly Cheer & Dance Little Vikes Summer Camp New
August 15, 9am-3pm, K-8th grade and 9am -12pm, 3 and 4 year olds
Campers will be taught cheerleading motions and technique, cheer jumps, stunts, gymnastics, sideline cheers, dance technique and a dance routine. There will also be games and crafts. Morning and afternoon snacks will be provided. All campers receive a t-shirt and pompoms. Campers should also wear athletic shoes and clothing. Sunscreen is also recommended, as some of our sessions will take place outside. Go to http://www.palycheer.net/little-vikes-summer-camp.html for more information. Questions: Contact Hilary McDaniel at hmcdaniel@pausd.org.
 
Teen Writing Club
1st and 3rd Thurs of the month, 4-5:30pm,  Rinconada Library, 1213 Newell Rd
Share your passion for writing with other teens. Writing prompts, activities, and light snacks provided. For 6th-12th grade.
  
Graphic Novel Book Club
Second Thurs of the month, 7 - 8 PM. Mitchell Park Library, 3700 Middlefield Rd.
Join the group on May 12, for a lively discussion on The Arab of the Future by Riad Sattouf. For adults and teens (age 16+).
 
Parent Chat: Peer to Peer Support
Every 2nd and 4th Tues, 7-8:30pm, Los Altos Library Orchard Room, 13 S. San Antonio Rd,  Los Altos
Are you concerned about the emotional wellness of your child?  Join Parent Chat: Peer to Peer Support hosted by the Mental Health Subcommittee of SELPA 1 CAC.  All parents welcome to talk about children 14+.  Professional guidance by Monique Kane LMFT.
Questions: Contact Donna Soo (650)-823-0997 or Trudy Palmer (650)-208-9116  
 
April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month  
In California, the law prohibits: Use of handheld wireless phone while driving; Texting while driving; and any use of communications device by drivers under 18.  In the first year California's "hands free" law took effect, traffic fatalities dropped 20% (700 fewer deaths) and there were 100,000 fewer collisions.  <
Mobile device use increases the risk of crashing by 4X.  More than 25% of all car crashes result from use of hand held mobile devices.  The average text message takes a driver's eyes off the road long enough to drive the entire length of a football field. Safety of our school commute routes depends on each of us driving, walking, and biking safely.  Please turn off your devices and share the road attentively.  

Global Internship Campaign 
Are you interested in energy policy, energy science, engineering sciences, physical sciences, environmental sciences or business? This Global Campaign internship might be the opportunity for you! This link will give you all the information you need to know about the internship and how to apply. Please click here. 

Donations for Costaņo Elementary's Library in East Palo Alto
Help to sponsor the refurbishment of the school library at Costaņo Elementary in East Palo Alto! This project is organized by the library at Jordan Middle School, in partnership with Access Books Bay Area, a new non-profit started by Jordan librarian Amanda Marchand.  In order to complete the library refurbishment, Access Books needs to raise $20,000! So far, they have raised a little over $6,000. You can help them to reach their goal by donating at http://www.store.accessbooks.net/collections/access-books-bay-area, and you can double your impact through your employer's matching donation program.  All funds will be used to purchase new hardcover books for the Costaņo school library, paint and supplies to repaint the walls, and new colorful furniture to make the library an inviting and comfortable place for children to spend time and explore new worlds. For more information, please visit http://www.accessbooks.net, or email amarchand@pausd.org.

Teen Classes & Volunteering at the Palo Alto Art Center
Unleash the creativity in your teen by signing up for Art Classes. The Art Center offers classes in ceramics, painting and sculpture on Monday - Saturdays. Classes are held at the Art Center (1313 Newell Road) and the Mitchell Park Community Center (3700 Middlefield Road). Online 
Registration is open now! All Art Classes are listed at  website. The Art Center is currently taking applications for Counselor in Training (CIT) positions for its summer camps. Click here for more information and the application packet. Questions? Please contact Rebecca Passarello (rebecca.passarello@cityofpaloalto.org or 650-617-3509).

Stanford Sleep Study
The Stanford University Department of Psychiatry is currently conducting a study to help teens (14-18) go to bed earlier and wake up earlier.  The treatment involves use of a light device that is placed by the child's bedside and flashes periodically throughout the night. Teens also meet for four sessions with a licensed psychologist or doctoral therapist under the supervision of a licensed psychologist at Stanford University to learn about sleep and strategies to improve sleep. The paid study requires completing a sleep diary daily for five weeks. Please contact the Teen Sleep Study at teensleep@stanford.edu or (650) 725-7767.

Americanized Chinese Parents
This is a club for Americanized Chinese Parents who embrace both the values of American culture and Chinese culture. In general, parents in this club speak English in their homes and value a balance of academics, social time, and extracurriculars. 
To be added to our mailing list, please email your name to: americanized.chinese.parents@gmail.com 

Camp MAC (journalism camp) registration still 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. Registration closes on June 1st and spots are limited. For registration, prices, and more information, visit http://paly.io/campmac or contact palyjournalismcamp@gmail.com.

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 
Adopt A Teacher Who Needs Your Support
Make a real difference for a teacher and his/her students by "adopting" a K-8 teacher in East Palo Alto or east Menlo Park for a school year.  Provide the teacher with encouraging notes and/or small gifts of appreciation, school supplies and support for two class parties. Financial commitment $500-600, time commitment very flexible. It's easy and fun to adopt a teacher with friends. Learn more or sign up at http://ravenswoodef.org/adopt-a-teacher/ or by contacting Jennifer Wythes Vettel at jwvettel@yahoo.com.
 
Love Art and Art History?
Weekly meetings held every Friday, 9:30-11 am at Art Education, 25F Churchill AvenueVolunteer docents needed to give presentations about the lives and work of Master Artists to PAUSD elementary students. Training provided by Arts Coordinator, Sharon Ferguson.  Art History background preferred but not required. Flexible hours.  For more information contact Art Education (650) 329-3939 or email Emily at emarshall@pausd.org 
 
About the Paly LinkaboutPalyLink

The Paly Link is a Paly PTSA publication, emailed on Sundays, except during school breaks and holidays. Changes will be highlighted as New/Updated/Corrected.

 

Deadline for submissions: noon on Saturday, the day before publication. Flyers must be submitted by noon on Thursday. Items run no earlier than 3 weeks before the event.

To submit an item, send to palylink@paloaltopta.org.  See submission instructions here. Include a header or title line, then a line listing the date, time and location of the event. Follow with a brief (2-4 sentence) description of the activity, with the most important information first.  List email, contact information and web links last.  Items are published at the discretion of the editors. 

--Shuchi Grover and Carlene Kemmerer, Paly Link Editors
--Bala Aiyar, Paly Link List Manager and Gordon Craig, Paly Link Webmaster 
Click Here to sign up a new email address to receive the Link. Click on the "Update Profile/Email Address" link below to update an existing address.

Paly Link on the Web, Paly PTSA Web Site,
Paly Web Site, Paly Sports

Palo Alto PTA Council Web Site, Parent Education Events, 
Community Service, Community Sports  
Join Our Mailing List