Riverstone International School
November 12, 2015
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 Hi All,
As we near the final week of the Annual Fund, I'd like to highlight why these five weeks of fundraising and our annual Auction are so important. All gifts from both of these two important fundraisers go directly to our programs and allow us to say "yes" to making Riverstone a better place for all of our students.
Thanks to your generosity at last year's Auction during the Fund A Need portion of the evening, we were able to enhance our current science curriculum and implement new Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs - a direct connection to the initiatives outlined in the Strategic Plan. We have used the funds to improve our science labs, purchase equipment, and provide training for our teachers.
Last summer, three Elementary School staff members -- James Hamilton-Vail, Jennifer Smackey and Tina Morgan -- attended a STEM-based Project Lead the Way training. Ms. Smackey and Mrs. Morgan then trained other members of our staff to implement the program in Grade 2 and Grade 5. This inquiry-based program, which we are integrating into our Units of Inquiry, is tested and proven to be very effective in getting students excited about STEM.
Check out this short video highlighting Grade 5 and how they have integrated their unit of inquiry on media with robotics. We will share photos of the other science improvements in the near future.
We also now have an after-school "white hat hacking" club which offers a complicated and advanced level view of computer coding. Thanks to parent Dejan Nenov for making this possible for our students!
We also received a matching grant from the Edward E. Ford Foundation for $50,000 last year. As with any granting organization, they looked very closely at our 2014 Annual Fund participation. Their grant enabled us to purchase robotics equipment and computers necessary to introduce the robotics program that we are implementing in the Gr 9 Design Technology course. Our students are enjoying robotics so much that we have two robotics teams that are preparing for competition. We have been trying to raise matching funds outside of our parent community and are still in the process of doing so with a deadline of December 31, 2015. If you have any suggestions for potential organizations or individuals who would be interested in supporting STEM-education at Riverstone, please let me know.
Finally, thanks to the Parents' Association for planning a pre-holiday stress-reducer, "A Taste of Riverstone." I hope to see you there!
Sincerely,
Bob Carignan
Head of School
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A TASTE OF RIVERSTONE: IT'S NOT TOO LATE TO GET YOUR TICKETS!
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Join Us!
 You're invited to a special night of international cuisine at "A Taste of Riverstone" on Friday, Nov 13 from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM in the Atrium. Come join your fellow Riverstoners at a casual evening complete with local restaurants showcasing tastings to tantalize your taste buds. Local beer and specialty wines will be included.
Tickets are $35 per person. If you would like to buy tickets or if you have any questions, please contact Janice Clark-Wallace. |
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MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL DANCES
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Friday Night Lights: "A Night on the Red Carpet" (Grades 6 - 8)
Friday, Nov 13 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, students in Grades 6 - 8 will dance the night away! Students should dress their best as "Friday Night Lights: A Night on the Red Carpet" is a formal dance.
"Stolen Dance" (Grades 9 - 12)
Friday, Nov 13 from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM, students in Grades 9 - 12 are invited to attend the "Stolen Dance" following the Grade 6 - 8 dance and social.
Ticket prices are $5 if purchased before the dance and $7 at the entrance.
Guests are more than welcome to attend with a completed guest permission form that is returned to Tarrah Elam prior to the evening of Friday, Nov 13.
Middle School "Friday Night Lights" Dance Permission and Guest Form
High School "Stolen Dance" Permission and Guest Form
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 Thank you to everyone who has already contributed to the 2015 Annual Fund!
We have 8 days left in the campaign and have received $93,767 in contributions and pledges to date with 48% participation from parents, staff, and Trustees!
Please know that no gift is too small and we appreciate your support. Please make your gift no later than Friday, Nov 20.
All contributions are tax-deductible!
Our goal is to collectively contribute $200,000 to the Annual Fund. We are striving for 100% support from our Board of Trustees, parents, and staff.
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UPCOMING PARENTS' ASSOCIATION EVENTS
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International Committee Meeting on Wednesday, Nov 18
The next International Committee will be held at 'Full Steam Bistro' (920 E Park Blvd, Boise, ID 83712) on Wednesday, Nov 18 at 8:45 AM.
We are planing events for this year with the goal of enhancing our students' international understanding. All parents are invited to join us!
Next International Committee Meeting: Wednesday, Nov 18 at 8:45 AM at Full Steam Bistro
Parents' Association Meeting
We would like to invite everyone to our next meeting on Thursday, Dec 3 at 7:00 PM at the Liebich home (1650 E Holly Street, Boise, ID 83712). We will have 30 minutes of social time and the official meeting will start at 7:30 PM.
Next PA Meeting: Thursday, Dec 3 at 7:00 PM at the Liebich home (address above)
We hope to see you tomorrow (Friday, Nov 13) at A Taste of Riverstone from 6:30 - 8:30 PM in the Elementary School Atrium. For more information, please contact Janice Clark-Wallace.
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2016 SUMMER TRAVEL DEPOSITS DUE FRI, NOV 13
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 A reminder that all Summer 2016 travel deposits must be made by end of day on Friday, Nov 13. Summer travel opportunities are designed by Riverstone administration and staff with logistical support by our partner, Grand Classroom. We take great pride in developing itineraries that foster our Five Pillars and support our curriculum. Our staff members identified as lead chaperones each have deep connections to the curriculum and/or destinations.
The following are the lead Riverstone chaperones for each of the trips who will work alongside of the Grand Classroom trip leaders. If the trip enrollment requires another chaperone, we will confirm those chaperones within the next two weeks.
- Washington, D.C: Tom Dempsey, Middle School Teacher
- Pacific Northwest: Meghan Sterling, Preschool Teacher
- Central Europe: Andy Johnson, Middle and High School Director
Below are the three travel options for students currently enrolled in Grades 7 - 11. The links provided will direct you to the corresponding Grand Classroom websites with itineraries, pricing and dates.
Current Grade 9 - 11 students:
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 Join the Riverstone Rake Up Boise team on Saturday, Nov 14! We will meet at school at 7:40 AM for hot chocolate and donuts.
From 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, we will rake leaves for Boise residents who are unable to do so themselves. Volunteers should bring a rake and gloves.
Sign up today!
Thank you to our Social Change Leadership students for organizing the Riverstone Rake Up Boise team.
Riverstone Rake Up Boise: Saturday, Nov 14 from 7:40 AM to 12:00 PM. |
 Just a reminder to be aware of the safety of our students when on the school grounds.
We appreciate your cooperation and ask that everyone:
- Check the Greenbelt as you enter/exit
- Drive slowly
- Refrain from cell phone use
- Make sure your student uses the crosswalks where available
- Reserve handicapped parking spots for those with a permit
In the Elementary School, please park fully before unloading students. Thank you!
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 All of the current Lost and Found items throughout the Elementary, Middle, and High Schools will be on display through Tuesday, Nov 24 in the Elementary School Atrium.
Please come and make sure none of your student's clothing items are here as we will be taking any leftovers to the Idaho Youth Ranch. If you have any questions please contact Sarah Taylor.
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 Thanksgiving Break will begin on Wednesday, Nov 25 with classes resuming Monday, Nov 30.
We hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday!
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SAVE THE DATE FOR THE BOOK FAIR
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Save the date for the 2015 Book Fair!
Friday, Dec 4 Morning set up the fair
Grand opening 4:00 - 6:00 PM
Monday, Dec 7 - Friday, Dec 11 Open all week 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday, Dec 14 Morning tear down
We would love your help. Please sign up to help on the Community Opportunities sheet.
Contact Kim Fall with questions or to volunteer.
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NOTE FROM THE SCHOOL COUNSELOR
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 The following is a note from Andrea Kuenzli, our school counselor. Healthy levels of self-confidence can set your child up to be successful against stressors later in life. Self-confidence can help you to better understand your strengths and abilities, face difficulties and overcome obstacles. Here are a few ways that you can help your child develop a healthy self-confidence.
Recognize Strengths
Help your child feel special and valuable by giving them compliments and recognizing their individual strengths and differences.
One-on-One Time
Spend 15 minutes of uninterrupted one-on-one time with your child per day.
Developing Decision-Making Skills
When your child comes to you with a problem or issue, focus on creating a solution together. Then talk about possible outcomes.
Stay Positive
Don't compare them to others. Focus on what your child can do and what is appropriate for them and their level.
Provide Choices
It might be as simple as option 1 or option 2 for dinner, but by doing so you are giving your child the power to choose.
Recognize Accomplishments
Praise them for their accomplishments after finishing a big test or competition.
For more information on self-confidence or other social/emotional concerns please email our school counselors, Shirley O'Neil or Andrea Kuenzli, or stop by their office located in the Elementary School.
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FRIDAY MORNING MUSIC: CALL FOR MUSICIANS
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 Does your child study music privately and would like to participate an informal, supportive recital setting here at Riverstone?
Friday Morning Music takes place from 7:45 AM - 8:20 AM in the Elementary School Atrium once per month. Our next event is Friday, Nov 20.
If your child would like to perform on November 20 or other Friday Morning Music events, please email Nicole Golay or Damon Brown for more information.
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 High School Soccer - Rush Fall Classic
"Great season by our High School Co-Ed team this fall. The team finished in 2nd place. Not the exact finish we wanted, but it was still awesome. I was really impressed how all the players improved week by week. They continued to try and be the best that they could be. Can't wait for our spring season!!"  |
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MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL
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 A note from Coach Lacie Barker:
"This week, the Riverstone Middle School Girls basketball teams were on the road. After two wins on Tuesday afternoon against Horseshoe Bend, both teams are excited to take on Garden Valley.
Next week's games will be played at Riverstone vs. Compass Honor School on Tuesday, Nov 17 and vs. Idaho City on Thursday, Nov 19. We would love if you could come cheer us on! Games start at 3:30 PM and 4:30 PM."
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 Grade 5 students frequent the Boise Art Museum once a year with Art teacher, Mr. Nelson.
Our connection to the Museum is an essential part of the Art program and this year, three students from Grade 5 were selected to exhibit artwork at the National Department of Education in Washington, D.C. The exhibit is held every year and museums around the country that have educational outreach programs are invited to participate.
Congratulations to Mac W, Darci D, and Cora I (all Gr 5) for being selected to participate!
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 Tired of packing lunches? Looking for a hot and nutritious alternative to the cold sandwich and chips? Try hot lunch at Riverstone today! From barbeque beef sliders to grilled southwest chicken salad, each week offers a variety of hot lunches, as well as deli wraps and gluten free bentos.
Here is a sample of what's on the menu for next week:
Monday: Penne pasta with a meat sauce, toasted baguette, veggie sticks, and seasonal fruit
Tuesday: Shredded chicken hard shell tacos with seasoned rice, veggie sticks, and taco fixings
Wednesday: Turkey hot dogs served with veggie sticks and seasonal fruit
Thursday: Seasoned red beans and rice served with shredded pork, veggie sticks, and seasonal fruit
Friday: Grilled chicken with pasta and a cream sauce served with roasted corn and seasonal fruit
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WINTER WEATHER CANCELLATIONS
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 How do you know if Riverstone is closed due to winter weather? Our policy is as follows: - Riverstone will be closed if the Boise School District closes district-wide.
- In cases where only certain schools in the Boise School District are closed, Riverstone's administration will decide whether to cancel school on a case-by-case basis.
Please remember that if you believe it is too dangerous for your children to travel to school, you have the option to delay arrival time or keep your children home. Please notify the school as you would with any late arrival or absence. If school is cancelled, there are no after school activities or athletics practices/games on that day.
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GRADE 5 MEDIA AND ROBOTICS
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This week's Facebook photo of the week is of our very own Riverstone veteran, Middle and High School Director, Andy Johnson, on the day he finished basic training in 1983. Thankful to celebrate Andy and our other Riverstone community members who are either currently serving or have served - you are truly making the world a better place!
Keep an eye on Riverstone's Facebook page and Instagram to keep up with what's happening at Riverstone!
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