Paly Link

A PTSA publication
Sunday, May 29, 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
Sunday
May 29
Baccalaureate, Flint Center, 12:30 p.m. New
Monday
May 30
Memorial Day Holiday. NO CLASSES 
Tues-Thurs
May 31 - Jun 2
Semester Two Final Exams  (see Final Exam Schedule) New
Tues-Thurs
May 31 - Jun 2
Morning Muchies New
Tuesday
May 31
Graduation Rehearsal, Paly Quad, 7:45 a.m. New
Tuesday
May 31
Senior Picnic, after grad rehearsal until 5:30 p.m. New
Wednesday
June 1
Graduation Ceremony , Paly Quad, 5:30 p.m. New
Wednesday
June 1
Senior Grad Party, 8:00 p.m. - 2:30 a.m. New
Thursday
Jun 2
LAST DAY OF SCHOOL for freshmen, sophomores, and juniors New
Friday
June 3
Last work day for teachers New
Friday
July 29
Back To School Packet Stuffing, Volunteers Needed New
Monday
Aug 1
Back To School Packet Pick-up New
Tuesday
Aug 2
Back To School Packet Mail-out New
 
Principal's Message
Congratulations to the class of 2016!  We are incredibly proud of all our seniors and their many contributions to Paly over the past four years. We're going to miss them, but their legacy will live on in the many positive contributions they've made to our school. Special congratulations to the senior parents whose youngest child is finishing up their high school days at Paly this week.  We will miss you around campus too, and we know our school is a better place thanks to your support.  

Each year around this time, the feel of the campus changes as we begin finals knowing the last day of school is just a few days away. During this last week, it is important students take a break, eat balanced meals and get enough sleep for them to finish the year strong. The best thing we can do is model these priorities for our children and encourage them to follow our lead. I understand for many, this is a bittersweet and/or emotional time of year. My eldest daughter has been crying every night because she already misses her first grade teacher (schools not even over), while my youngest can't wait for summer and moving into what she calls the "big kid room" at her preschool in August. She is all smiles. I'm learning firsthand that transitions are harder for some children than for others! Please let us know if your son or daughter needs any extra support or care this week by contacting a teacher or teacher advisor, calling the guidance office or sending an email to the grade level counselor. We're here to help.

Now, a few end-of-year "house-keeping" items...

Parents, please remind your students to clean out their locker and/or bring home any personal belongings before our last day.  Please encourage your student to return all books and/or pay for any lost or missing books. Unfortunately, our school "loses" $15,000 worth of unrecovered books every year.  We really appreciate your help in tracking them down! The district's Strategic Plan survey for students was shared on Schoology with students a few weeks back. Please encourage your student to take the survey if they haven't already. The link is here.

Finally, as we finish up the year, please know work for the 2016-2017 school year is already well underway. Student schedules will be released on Saturday, August 6th. Counselors return on August 8th and 9th for schedule corrections. Our Freshman Welcome & Orientation is on Thursday, August 11th at 4pm, and photo day for students is Friday, August 12th. Please check the Paly calendar for details and be on the lookout for our Back-to-School packet the first week of August. 

Thank you for your partnership and support. I wish you plenty of play time, down time and family time this summer. Enjoy your break and see you in August!

With Viking pride,
Kim Diorio
PTSA and PTA AnnouncementsPTSA
Check out the Paly PTSA website
Morning Munchies During Finals - Volunteers Needed  New
May 31st, 9:45am - 11:00am (serve at 10:15am)
June 1st, 8:20am - 9:40am (serve at 8:50)
June 2nd, 8:20am - 9:40am (serve at 8:50)
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


PTSA is still looking for volunteers for 2016-2017!

Parent Education Committee Members
-Work with Diana Pang and her Co VP Parent Education and incoming PTSA President Katie Shade, and collaborate with Gunn and PTAC in putting together Parent Education programs 
  
Parents for Spirit Week, Classes of 2019 (1 more parent to work with Tammy Huynh) and 2020 (2 parents) (rising sophomores and freshmen)--help organize the float building and competitions-lots of fun!!
 
Back To School Activities:
 
Lead /Help with Back to School Picnic-This is Tami Burton's last Year!  She will train and work with you to make this event fun.  (2 parents)
New Family Orientation
Back to School Packet Stuffing and Mailing-work with Joy Frick
Freshman Pizza Party
 
Auditor for July 2016-December 2016
 
Club Day Parent Coordinator (2) 
 
Field Day Parent Coordinator (2)
 
Latte Cart Monthly Treat Coordinator
 
Staff Event Leaders: Back to School Lunch (August)
                               Holiday Lunch (December)
                               February Staff Development Day
                               Staff Appreciation (April)
Disaster Preparedness
Meals on Wheels
School Board Observer
 
Questions?
Contact any of us on Nominating Committee
Chris Chang (cycampen@gmail.com; (408) 857-9221)
Jill Gold jillgold@gmail.com, (303) 808-3276
Victoria Liu; vxqliu@gmail.com; (650)215-8390
Cynthia Thamcynthia@thamlock.com; (650)248-1443
Tina Semba tpsemba@yahoo.com; (650)799-7269
 
Or Katie Shade, Incoming PTSA President; kathrynshade@sbcglobal.net; (650)224-2153

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.
 
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

Semester Two Final Exam Schedule  New
Tuesday, May 31
Period One (8:15-10:15)
Brunch (10:15-10:40)
Period Three (10:45-12:45)
Lunch (12:45-1:20)
Period 7 (1:25-3:25)

Wednesday, June 1 (Late Start)
Period Two (9:15-11:15)
Lunch (11:15-11:55)
Period 4 (12:00-2:00)

Thursday, June 2 (Late Start)
Period 5 (9:15-11:15)
Lunch (11:15-11:55)
Period 6 (12:00-2:00)

Graduation reminders for parents  New
Graduation will be held on the Paly campus at the Quad on Wednesday, June 1st. The diploma ceremony begins at 5:30 p.m. The general seating area will open at 4:00 p.m. and we also have an area for our guests with disabilities located in front of the Student Activities Center. Seating is on a first-come basis and saving seats is not allowed. Parking is available in the Paly main lot and also in the smaller lot by the football stadium off Churchill.

Immediately following the ceremony, hosted by the Junior Class, is a reception adjacent to the Student Activities Center.  Ample refreshments are provided for the graduate and their guests.  This is a great time to celebrate and take pictures with the graduates before they line up at 8:00 p.m. for a night of fun with their fellow Class of 2016 at the PTSA sponsored Grad Night Party.

Reminders for students
  • Each senior receives 10 tickets for guests-Tickets are distributed at the Graduation Rehearsal the day before.
  • Seniors line up in caps & gowns at 5:00 pm. Caps and gowns are mandatory for participation in the ceremony. Students who do not have one, please see Mr. Hall for a loaner gown.
  • Seniors - don't forget to pick up your diploma and special GRAD NIGHT card before heading to the buses! You must clear all your debts with the auditor in order to pick up a diploma.
Medication Pick Up New
If your student has medication stored in the Paly Health Office, please come to pick it up on the last day of school.  Medication will only be sent home with your child by written request, or if a doctor has given written approval that your student may carry medication.  We must dispose of medication that is not retrieved.  No medication is kept over the summer for use in the fall. 

Morning Munchies During Finals - Volunteers Needed  New
May 31st, 9:45am - 11:00am (serve at 10:15am)
June 1st, 8:20am - 9:40am (serve at 8:50)
June 2nd, 8:20am - 9:40am (serve at 8:50)
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

Volunteers STILL needed for Class of 2K16's Graduation!  Updated
Paly's Class of 2K16's graduation is almost here!!!! An awesome party has been planned to help them celebrate, and WE NEED YOUR HELP! We need volunteers for both the senior picnic on May 31 (Tuesday), and the post-graduation party that will start in the evening on June 1 (Wednesday) and end in early morning on June 2. Learn more and sign-up to help at http://goo.gl/CWDY5J. Contact Laura Ma at buenamadre@gmail.com should you have any questions.
Junior Parent Volunteers Needed for Graduation Reception  Updated
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 (before 6pm).  How can you help?  Please sign up to help prepare and serve food on Wednesday, June 1, here.

Interested in serving on the 2016-2018 Paly Site Council? 
The Paly Site Council is currently seeking candidates for TWO parent representatives.  Those elected will serve from September 2016 to June 2018. The Council meets on Monday afternoons, once a month. Please see the Paly website for details: http://www.paly.net/site-council, or feel free to ask questions of our retiring parent reps: Heidi Mickelson (heidihm@gmail.com) or Srinivasan Subramanian (chiniblade@gmail.com).  The deadline for nominations is June 3. Please write a brief statement, (a paragraph or two), including your reasons for wanting to serve on Site Council (This is also the text that will appear on the ballot), and submit your nomination to Carolyn Benfield: cbenfield@pausd.org with the subject line "Site Council".  The election will be held in conjunction with school registration in August; watch the Paly Link for notification.  All parents and guardians of Paly students are eligible, with the exception of PAUSD employees.  Candidates must have a student at Paly throughout their term of office.

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

Order GRADUATION LEIS today! 
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. We now have a limited quantity of leis- so hurry and order before we sell out! Go to www.palycheer.net to place your order today. Pick up is on graduation day, Wed. June 1st from 1-5pm at Paly- easy and convenient. If you have questions contact Hilary McDaniel at hmcdaniel@pausd.org.

Attention Paly Juniors and Parents of Juniors
As we reach summer, many of you will be exploring senior portrait studio options very soon. We recommend booking studio time as soon as possible; don't wait for the start of next school year to get this done! You might also consider taking some time to find adorable baby photos to incorporate into your child's yearbook baby ad. Portraits and senior baby ads for the Paly yearbook are due no later than October 13, 2016. The link below should give you a clear idea of the guidelines for each. If you have any questions, please feel free to email adviser Brian Wilson at bwilson@pausd.org
Senior portrait and baby ad information: 

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

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/

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 Rep Visits
Students must have their teacher's permission one day in advance if missing class. Pick up a form in the C&CC, or download it.  Bring the signed form the day of the visit to ensure the absence from class is cleared and marked as an activity rather than a truancy.  College visits scheduled for the next two weeks are listed below.  For a full list of all visits through Spring, login to Naviance using your user ID and password or login as a Guest with no password.  Click on the "Colleges" tab then click "view all upcoming college visits" within the "my colleges" section. Due to increased student attendance and limited space in the College Center, we are no longer able to permit parents to attend college representative visits, please click to read more information about this policy.

College visits:
Colleges That Change Lives College Fair   8/1/16   7pm   Santa Clara

Scholarships and contests/competitions expiring through Jun 6: 
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.
 
Chinese American Chamber of Commerce Scholarship: Deadline 5/30                            
Club Estrella Scholarship: Deadline 5/31         
LM Scholarship Program: Deadline 5/31          
Aspiring Animation Professional Scholarship: Deadline 6/1                                
Aspiring Business Professional Scholarship: Deadline 6/1                           
Aspiring Fashion Professional Scholarship: Deadline 6/1         
Horatio Alger Career and Technical Scholarship: Deadline 6/1                   
Odenza Vacations College Scholarship: Deadline 6/1                       
Got a Spine Scholarship: Deadline 6/2                          
Oz Foundation Scholarship: Deadline 6/4    
Philippine Professional and Business Society Scholarship Awards: Deadline 6/6 NEW 
PAUSD PAUSD

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 

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
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
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
 
Italian Street Painting Festival  New 
Saturday, August 27th and Sunday, August 28th, Tasso St, Palo Alto
Earn Community Service Hours & Benefit Youth Community Service!
As part of the annual Palo Alto Festival of the Arts, chalk artists will take to the streets to demonstrate their amazing talent and support YCS programs in our community. Students and their families can be part of the fun by volunteering to help run the event!  Volunteers will be Artist Ambassadors, Set-up Team Members, assist kids in their own chalk drawing, and more! For more information or to sign up, please visit www.youthcommunityservice.org or call (650) 858-8019

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 
  • Sea Scout Ship Intrepid: Open House Cruise  New
  • Saturday, June 4 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM, Port of Redwood City, 675 Seaport Blvd
  • Check out the Sea Scout Ship Intrepid! Come cruise the San Francisco Bay on our boat, the Olympic Venture. We'll meet at the Port of Redwood City, 675 Seaport Blvd, on June 4th at 11:30 AM, returning at 3 PM. The Intrepid Crew is open to young men in 8th -­ 12th grade. Lunch will be provided. All youth and parents welcome. RSVP dorc@sssintrepid.org 
  •  
    • Paly Math Camp New
    Mathcounts Camp: 7/11-15, 1-4 pm
    AMC Camp: 7/18-22, 1-4 pm (currently unavailable due to staffing issues but may open up if there is sufficient interest)
    Place: Terman Middle School
    Paly Math Camp offers individually paced training and one-on-one teaching, with rigorous curriculum taught by former USAMO/USAJMO and AIME qualifiers as well as a math teacher, all from Palo Alto high schools. These camps will be suitable for any student who enjoys math and will be fun for students of all ages and math levels.
    Mathcounts Camp is intended for incoming PAUSD middle schoolers who want to learn problem-solving techniques geared more towards Mathcounts. AMC Camp is intended for PAUSD students who want to learn problem-solving techniques geared more towards the AMC 8 and AMC 10 series.
    If you are interested in registering, please fill out the following form: http://goo.gl/forms/qtmr8lQoWxfSNeHk1
    Contact palymathclub@gmail.com for any questions.
    2016 Maker+ Camp  New
    June 20-24, 2:15-4:30 p.m., Rinconada Library, 1213 Newell Rd
    Want to earn volunteer hours, talk about big ideas, make cool things and grab a bit of lunch? Join us afternoons the week of June 20th for Maker+ at Rinconada Library. We will use design thinking to tackle community challenges. Dan Russell of Google and Jonathan Reichental Chief Information Officer of City of Palo Alto will talk about how technology and creativity can be used to address big challenges. This free camp for rising 9th through 12th graders is a great way to learn how to use design thinking to approach small and large problems. Registration required. To register, please email Sheila Bishop with the name of the teen, grade entering in fall and contact email for the teen. More info: Sheila.Bishop@cityofpaloalto.org

    Stanford Research on High School Community Service  New
    My name is Tracy Lord, and I am currently an undergraduate at Stanford University. During this upcoming fall, cyclists, volunteers, and supporters will come together for the third annual LifeMoves The Ride to End Homelessness. All funds raised by this event will go directly to LifeMoves. I am conducting some research to determine the best and most effective form of school participation in this bicycle ride. It would be very helpful if students, parents, and staff members would fill out this very short google survey form: http://goo.gl/forms/72hY3sPOP0fjjg3P2
    Screening of "Beyond Measure"  New
    Sat, Jun 4, 2 - 4 PM,  1044 Middlefield Road, Redwood City Main Library
    Beyond Measure sets out to challenge the assumptions of our current education story. Rather than ask why our students fail to measure up, this film asks us all to reconsider the greater purpose of education. What if our education system valued personal growth over test scores? Put inquiry over mimicry? Encouraged passion over rankings? What if we decided that the purpose of school was not the transmission of facts or formulas, but the transformation of every student? And what if this paradigm-shift was driven not by politicians but by students, parents, and teachers
    Register here.  Sponsored by Girls Innovate, Outschool.org and Redwood City Library. Free and open the public. 
     

    Middle School Bicycle Skills Classes       
    Sat,  Jun 11 - Aug 6, 8:30 AM - 1 PM, Mitchell Park Community Center 
    Build your student's independent bicycling skills. The Palo Alto Safe Routes to School program has partnered with Wheel Kids Bicycle Club to offer on-bike safety classes for middle school students and their parents throughout the summer.  For more details or to register visit: http://wheelkids.com/palo-alto/middle-school/

    Palo Alto Stanford Aquatics (PASA) Swimming Lessons  
    Stanford Cardinal Swimming offers a range of swimming opportunities for the beginning swimmer to the elite athlete. Find the best fit for you! Start dates: May - August. Contact swim@pasacardinal.com to find out about options at Avery Pool (Stanford) and in Palo Alto. Programs include high school, age group, competitive, developmental and swim lessons. PASA - Cardinal is a year-round United States Swimming Team: www.pasacardinal.com. All Levels: https://goo.gl/pahsbq. High School: https://goo.gl/Fw1T2S
     
    Meet the Author - The Anti-Depressant Book: A Practical Guide for Teens 
    Thu, June 2, 7 - 8:30 PM, Rinconada Library, 1213 Newell Rd., Palo Alto
    Please join us as local author, Dr. Jacob Towery, shares and discusses his new book, The Anti-Depressant Book: A Practical Guide for Teen and Young Adults to Overcome Depression and Stay Healthy. This FREE program is for teens and adults. More information is available at http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/news/displaynews.asp?NewsID=3555&TargetID=161.
     
    Teen DIY Bath Bombs and Lip Balms 
    Tue, June 7, 2 - 4 PM, Mitchell Park Library, 3700 Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto

    2016 Adolescent Mental Wellness Conference 
    Aug 5- 6, South San Francisco Conference Center
    "Breaking Down Stigma, Building Support for Youth Mental Health"
    Bringing policymakers, educators, clinicians, youth and family members together to explore approaches for supporting the mental health needs of children adolescents and young adults. Registration:https://app.certain.com/profile/form/index.cfm?PKformID=0x22280362ddd&
     
    Buoyancy 2016 - Free Teen Festival  
    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  
    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  
    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