EVERGREEN EAGLE EXPRESS
Week of April 17, 2016 - Issue 34

EVERGREEN MIDDLE SCHOOL  ǀ  6900 208TH Ave. NE, Redmond, WA 98053  ǀ  425-936-2320 

PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGEA
Hello Evergreen Families -
  
We hope your first week back from Spring Break was an enjoyable one.  Students and staff quickly re-assimilated into their normal routines and it was great to reconnect with everyone. 

National Associate Principals' Week
  
This week was National Associate Principal Week and I want to acknowledge and express my appreciation to our two outstanding APs: Anne Balicki and Katy Rudolph.  Both are fantastic administrators and support students and staff in all interactions.  We could not ask for two finer administrators and I am grateful to call them colleagues.  In celebration, we had students sign giant cards at lunch and it was delightful to see so many positive comments thanking them for what they do at Evergreen.  I was proud to see so many students acknowledge and appreciate all of Anne and Katy's efforts on a daily basis.  If you would like to drop them a note of appreciation as well, you're welcome to email them at [email protected] or [email protected].

Traffic Flow and Congestion

You may have noticed and have been utilizing the new traffic lane in our parking lot.  We are extremely grateful to our Facilities department for their responsiveness in constructing this new lane and improving traffic flow.  We recognize the traffic flow in the morning is much improved and congestion has been reduced significantly.  We recognize that after-school pick-up is still congested and we continue to dialogue with Facilities about additional solutions.  We will continue brainstorming throughout the Spring and look for long-term solutions that can be implemented next year or in future years.

SBA

We begin our state/national testing on Tuesday, May 10.  This will be our second year implementing the Smarter Balanced Assessment.  The structure and format of the test are the same as last year and we will be testing students in their 1st period class.  We will run a "snow day" schedule with students testing from 8:00am-10:00am (snow time) and then attend classes from 10:00am-2:30pm.  Because we are testing all students on the same days at the same time, we are able to reduce the testing schedule into six days as opposed to spreading it out over 16 days.  Students will complete the ELA segments on Tuesday, May 10; Thursday, May 12; and Friday, May 13.  Students will complete the Math segments on Tuesday, May 24 and Thursday, May 26; and 8th graders will complete the Science MSP on Thursday, June 2.  We will publish more information about SBA in future editions of the Eagle Express.

Evergreen Showcase at the LWSD School Board Meeting - Monday, April 18

Each month, one of the 52 schools in the Lake Washington School District are highlighted and showcased during the monthly LWSD School Board Meeting.  Evergreen MS will be the featured school at the April 18 meeting and we are looking forward to showcasing all of the wonderful things that make Evergreen an outstanding school.  All are welcome to join us in the Board Room at the L.E. Scarr Resource Center on Monday, April 18 at 7:00pm.  We will be featuring music from our EMS Jazz Band prior to the showcase as well if you'd like to come early.

Final Thoughts

I am so proud of our students and staff and am blessed to be the principal of such an outstanding group of people.  It is a joy to be at Evergreen and I am thankful every day to come to school.  We look forward to all that lies ahead and we are excited to support your student as they grow and mature academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally.

As always, please let us know how we can support you and your student as we prepare them to be Future Ready.

Sincerely,

Robert Johnson
 
Principal
Evergreen Middle School

IMPORTANT DATESB
                      
Mon., 4/18 - 1st Day of 4th Season Sports
 
Mon., 4/18 - EMS Showcase at LWSD Board Meeting; 7pm @ L.E. Scarr Resource Center (Redmond Town Center)
 
Wed., 4/20 - Last Day 4th Season Sports Paperwork Accepted
 
Tues., 4/26 - Election Ballots on Bond Measure Due
 
Tues., 4/26 - "Welcome to the Pack" @ Eastlake High School; 6-8pm
 
Fri., 5/6 - EMS Award Nominations Due
 
Fri., 5/6 - EMS Dance; 7-9pm
 
Mon., 5/9 - Presidential Service Award Hours Due

SCHOOL NEWSC
LAST EMS DANCE!  HOLLYWOOD: BE YOUR OWN STAR!  *new*


The last EMS dance of the year will be held on Friday, May 6th from 7-9pm.  This is our one and only nighttime dance of the year.   Tickets go on sale Friday, April 29th and are $5.00.   Students can purchase tickets at the cashier window from Ms. Nilsen before school and during lunches from April 29th through Thursday, May 5th.  We recommend purchasing tickets before school (7:15-7:55am), and earlier in the week, as lines will be long during lunches on Thursday.  There will be no ticket sales the day of the dance (May 6th).  Students will receive their wristbands for the dance during lunch on Friday, May 6th.
  
This dance will be a "sock hop" just like all the others.  This helps us protect the gym floor from inappropriate shoes.  When students arrive at 7pm, they will put their shoes in their locker before heading to the dance.
  
Concessions will be available for purchase, so we recommend bringing along a little money for snacks.  Students will also have the opportunity to take pictures at our "Selfie Station" so cell phones are allowed.  Students are responsible for keeping track of their phones at the dance.  All backpacks, bags and other items should be left at home.

If students would like to dress for the Hollywood theme, there are lots of options.  They can dress up like a character from a specific movie, dress like a specific celebrity, or wear something fancy that is "red carpet worthy".  Students may also choose to wear their favorite outfit, or whatever makes them feel like a star.  All clothing choices must still follow school dress code. If you are unfamiliar with the school dress code, please refer to your child's agenda page 19.

We are aware that there is a track meet on May 6th.  The dance was planned in the evening in the hopes that students participating in the track meet may still be able to attend.  Students who are involved in Track may arrive late if necessary.  They must have purchased a ticket in advance (there will be no ticket sales at the door), and we require that an adult bring them into the building to check them in when they arrive (if they are coming after 7pm).   Questions?  Email Trish Miller at [email protected] or [email protected]

If you would like to help out with wristbands, concessions, or chaperoning, and you are currently an approved LWSD volunteer, please click below.  Thanks!
PRESIDENTIAL SERVICE AWARD HOURS - DUE MAY 9, 2016 *new*

It is time to start thinking about putting together your hours to submit for the PSA award. As a reminder, hours can be earned June 1, 2015 - May 31, 2016 (please estimate hours to be done after turn in date). You need a minimum of 50 hours for an award. The DUE DATE is May 9, 2016.
You may submit your information via email to [email protected] or drop off an envelope titled "Deb Zimmerman, Presidential Service Awards" to Mrs. Casolary in the Counselor's office. See the attached document for more information. Please contact me ahead of time if you have any questions!
LWSD BOND MEASURE ON APRIL 26 BALLOT *updated*
 
Lake Washington School District has proposed a bond measure to reduce overcrowding and enhance student learning. This measure would raise funds to provide classroom space for 3,000 more students. Projects include two new elementary schools, one new middle school, and rebuilding and enlarging Juanita High School plus Kirk and Mead Elementary Schools. Because the district is paying off past bonds and construction levies, the tax rate would remain the same as the 2015 rate. Complete information on the measure is available at www.lwsd.org. Please remember to vote by April 26.
You can also get more information on the specific projects the bonds would fund by clicking on the link below.

EVERGREEN ATHLETICSD
4TH SEASON SPORTS
April 18 - June 3

 

TRACK

Boys & Girls


 

TENNIS

Girls


 

BASKETBALL

6th Grade Boys


 

VOLLEYBALL

6th Grade Girls


4th season sports run April 18th - June 3rd.  To be eligible for the first practice, which is Monday April 18th, students must be cleared by Thursday April 14th. Paperwork and registration will not be accepted after Wednesday, April 20th.
 
*Important note: Even if a student has played a sport earlier this school year, they still need to check in with Ms. Nilsen and let her know they intend on participating in 4th season sports. Doing this allows Ms. Nilsen to compile an accurate roster for coaches.
PTSAE
VOTE "YES" ON LWSD 2016 BOND MEASURE! *new*
At our General Membership meeting on April 14, 2016, the EMS PTSA voted unanimously to support and endorse the LWSD 2016 bond measure.  Please vote "yes" and make sure to return your ballot by Tuesday, April 26! 
To see other endorsements for the 2016 Bond, or to add your own, please visit http://vote4lwsdkids.org/endorsements/.

AWARD NOMINATIONS *new*

Our PTSA would like your help in making sure the very deserving parent volunteers and school employees of our Evergreen community are recognized. One way we do this is by presenting awards at the Volunteer Tea at the end of the school year. If you know of someone that has shown exceptional service to students, please take a moment to fill out a nomination form.  Staff, parents, and students are all eligible to make nominations, which are due by Friday, May 6th.  Please click below for the form and further information.
PTSA MEMBER BENEFITS *new*
 
Krispy Kreme - WSPTA Day 
April 19 Only
Visit any of the following locations and receive 20% off your order. Treat your school's faculty and staff! Must show current WSPTA member card to receive discount.
Issaquah | N. Seattle | SoDo Seattle | Spokane  |  Tacoma | Tri-Cities | Vancouver
 
 
Silverwood Theme Park

WSPTA  has collaborated with Silverwood Theme Park for another unforgettable summer of fun! Members can save up to $9 off front gate pricing.                                    
IXTAPA FUNDRAISER UPDATE
*new*
Thank you to all of those who supported the EMS PTSA on our last fundraiser of the year by dining at Ixtapa on Tues., March 29!  It was a fun way to raise $350 for our PTSA which will go towards future student learning and success at EMS. 
 
We are so grateful to all of our PTSA members for helping us meet and exceed our fundraising goal this year!
EXTRACURRICULARF
INTERESTED IN BEING A PTSA BOARD MEMBER AT RHS NEXT YEAR?
*new*
The Redmond High School PTSA Nominating Committee is seeking board members for the 2016/17 school year. We are looking for individuals who can provide strong support to the school's students, staff and community.  For examples of support the RHS PTSA provides, please review the attached document.
 
We are currently recruiting the following board positions:
 
Co-Presidents               VP Communications
Secretary                      VP Programs
Treasurer                      VP Services
 
No previous experience is required and training is provided. 
 
The deadline for nominations is April 22nd. New members will be voted in during our general PTSA meeting on May 18.
 
If you know someone who would like to be nominated or if you are interested in getting involved, please fill out the attached form and either return it to the school office c/o RHS PTSA or email it directly to a member of the PTSA Nominating committee listed below. All nominations and suggestions are confidential.
 
We appreciate your consideration and look forward to hearing from you!
 
Redmond High School PTSA Nominating Committee
 
Sharon Drazkowski      Committee Chairperson           [email protected]       425.836.1527
Desiree Michael             Committee Member                [email protected]       425.260.9697
Debbie Rist                    Committee Member                [email protected]                            425.296.1257  
"WELCOME TO THE PACK" *new*
Tuesday, April 26, 6-8pm @ Eastlake High School
Attention all incoming 9th graders and their families.  Eastlake HS would like to formally invite you and your entire family to the second annual Eastlake High School 'Welcome to the Pack' event on Tuesday, April 26th from 6-8 pm. 
 
This is an opportunity for us to gather as a community and celebrate the spirit and culture of Eastlake, showcase many of the amazing aspects of our school, and help prepare our incoming class of 9th graders to be more familiar with Eastlake High School.  There will be performances from our band, choir, orchestra and drama students in the theater.  Our mascot, with the support from our cheer and dance teams, will be welcoming everyone.  Guided tours will be given throughout the evening.  Information will be available on the many clubs, electives and athletic opportunities provided here at Eastlake HS. 
 
There will be teachers representing their department available for questions and sharing the fine work they do.  The student store will be open and in full operation as families begin to increase their Eastlake gear (please have cash or a check).  Finally, there will be food trucks opening at 5 pm and lasting until the end of the event at 8 pm, please bring cash if you'd like to buy food or concessions. 
 
Please join the Eastlake staff on April 26th as we celebrate this amazing school we call home and welcome next year's 9th grade class, the soon-to-be graduates of 2020.  There will be a schedule, map and more detailed information available the night of the event.  We hope you're able to attend and begin to feel what it's like to be Wolf Strong Pack Strong.
JUST IN TIME FOR SPRING CLEANING - TEXTILE DRIVE AT EASTLAKE HIGH SCHOOL *new*
Saturday, April 23 & Sunday, May 1; 9am-3pm

The Eastlake PTSA is collecting a textile drive - clothing, shoes, stuffed animals, towels, gloves & hats, belts, sheets, blankets, drapes, quilts, bedspreads, purses - IN ANY CONDITION!  Proceeds benefit the Class of 2016 Senior Send Off. 
Please bag items in clean plastic trash bags.  Donation truck will be located in the parking lot at Eastlake High School, 400 228th Avenue NE, Sammamish.  Donations are tax deductible.  If you have questions, please contact Mary Pat O'Neil at [email protected].
  
Thank you for your support!
MAY IS "BIKE TO SCHOOL MONTH" *new*
 
Lake Washington School District student leaders from Sustainability Ambassadors are coordinating with Cascade Bicycle Club and the city of Redmond on the annual Bike to School Month Challenge.

Check out the teams that competed from our district last year: http://www.luum.com/challenges/89/bike-to-school-challenge
 
MOTIVATION:
  • Reduce the amount of CO2 that we release into the air
  • Improve our health
  • Arrive at school awake and ready to learn
  • Learn about the future of sustainable transportation systems
COMPETE:
  • Be the school to track the most number of bike trips in the district!
PRIZES: Courtesy of the Cascade Bicycle Club
  • Weekly drawings (registered students): U-locks, T-shirts, bike helmets!
  • Golden Pedal Award: for the school with the most number of bike trips
REGISTER:
Middle and high school students can register below to report the number of bicycle trips they made to school every week.
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
The Lake Washington School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, gender, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran, military status, sexual orientation, including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability, in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.

 
The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies:
Director of Human Resources
16250 NE 74th Street
Redmond, Washington, 98052
(425) 936-1266

 

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Evergreen Middle School PTSA
Eagle Express is published by parent volunteers of Evergreen Middle School.