[CabotCommunity] Jabberwock for Tuesday May 20, 2008

[auvpto at aol.com]

Hello everyone, as we all prepare for year end activites at school, this edition of jabber is full of interesting and important information.  We hope you find it helpful and enjoy it. 

 Archana Vahalia
Cabot PTO Co-President
auvpto at aol.com
617-244-1435








Issue 9   May 20, 2007

 











Cabot School PTO 

e-Jabberwock






                                                                                                                

                 Respect for self and others            Lifelong learning                 Commitment to school and community

 

Cabot School Contact Information 

• Main Office: 617-559-9400                                    • CASP: 617-964-2749

• Gym: 617-559-9407                                                 • Food Service: 617-559-9021 or 617-559-6315                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

• Inclusion Facilitator: 617-559-9409                        • Nurse: 617-559-9404

• Library: 617-559-9406                                            • Psychologist & Social Worker: 617-559-9405

• Call Back/Safe Arrival: 617-559-9390 Call by 8:20 a.m. to report tardiness & absences

 

Cabot School website       www.newton.k12.ma.us/cabot/

Cabot School PTO             www.cabotpto.org

Newton Public Schools     www.newton.k12.ma.us/

 





 Calendar





 





May 20, 2008



City Special Election for Override





May 20, 2008



Incoming Kindergarten visit, 1:00 -2:00 PM





May 20, 2008



Jabberwock Publication 2007-08 Issue #10





May 23, 2008



Interim Principal Visits Cabot 8:30 - 9:30 AM





May 23, 2008



Theatre Espresso, Justice at War, Gr. 4, Presentation at The New Art Center.\





May 26, 2008



Memorial Day, NO SCHOOL





May 27, 2008



School Committee Meeting, 7:30 PM





May 27, 2008



Affinity Group 12:30pm





May 29, 2008



CASP Advisory Board Meeting  7:45am





June 2, 2008



Dan Perlman, Gr. , presentation in the classrooms





June 2 -16, 2008



Coin Drive





June 3, 2008



Color Day 





June 4, 2008



CASP Picnic and DVD 6:00 - 7:30 PM





June 5, 2008



Early Release Day, 12:30 PM Dismissal





June 6, 2008



Step-Up Day for 5th Graders





June 9, 2008



Awards Ceremony, 9:00 AM





June 9, 2008



Special BBQ lunch for every grade during lunch hour, rain date 6/11





June 9, 2008



School Committee Meeting, 7:30 PM





June 10, 2008



PTO Budget & Election Meeting, 8:40 AM





June 10, 2008



Vocabulary Day/ All School Walk





June 12, 2008



Recorder and Instrumental Concert 9:15 AM





June 12, 2008



Celebration of Teaching, 3:30 onwards





June 13, 2008



5th Grade picnic





June 13, 2008



PTO Appreciation Evening 5:30 -7:00 PM, 53 Sheffield Road, Newtonville.





June 17, 2008



Jabberwock Publication 2007-08 Issue #11





June 17, 2008



CASP 5th Grade Trip to Breezy Point 1 - 5:45 PM





June 18, 2008



Transition Ceremony for 5th Grade, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM





June 18, 2008



Last Day for Students at CASP 6 PM  Office will remain open on a part time basis during the summer





June 19, 2008



Last Day of School for Students, 12 Noon Dismissal 





June 19, 2008



End of Year Picnic on Field, Noon onwards





June 20, 2008



Last Day of School for Teachers





June 23, 2008



School Committee Meeting, 7:30 PM





September 1, 2008



Labor Day, NO SCHOOL





September 2, 2008



First Day for Teachers; Superintendent Meeting at NSHS, 8 AM





September 2, 2008



Welcome Picnic for New Families, 5:30 - 7:00 PM (rain date 9/5/06)





September 4, 2008



First Day for Students Grade 1-5 & Kindergarten "A" students





September 4, 2008



PTO Coffee for New Parents, 8:30 AM outside Kindergarten wing





September 4, 2008



First Day of CASP for k-5





September 5, 2008



First Day for Kindergarten "B" students





September 5, 2008



PTO Coffee for New Parents, 8:30 AM outside Kindergarten wing





 

Please check the website www.cabotpto.org for an updated calendar at anytime.

 





 Marilynne’s Message





 

By the time this newsletter reaches most families we should be awaiting the results of the override vote on Tuesday may 20th. This date regardless of the outcome of the vote will mark an unprecedented era in public school education. Many communities across the Commonwealth have been asked to carry the additional costs to provide educational, safety and other municipal services. A few communities such as Brookline have had the luxury of asking for an override to institute a world language program in its elementary school while districts like Newton seek to maintain and improve the quality of school programming including its facilities. Regardless of the outcomes, I can assure you that the teachers in Newton and in particular here at Cabot School will continue to provide a high quality education by creating a school and learning communities in their classrooms that respects all learners. They will be professional as they meet their responsibilities under new leadership and make Cabot School a school you can be proud to send your child. I will be releasing information about teaching allocations, assignments and classroom locations in the next several weeks. Should we require new faculty I will invite parents to join as I have in the past. While I will make every effort to accommodate schedules this year’s reality is that I must complete any hires before June 30th. This could necessitate evening interviews given the full schedule between now and the close of school. Watch for a community email perhaps with a request. I have prided myself on identifying and hiring professionals who embrace the values of our school and who will compliment this outstanding faculty so we continue to improve our ability to teach and support students and their families.

 

Cabot School is one of the schools identified as the most in need of a new facility. Even while the focus has been on the budget and the override, work continues to proceed regarding the state of our elementary schools. Be sure to pay attention to school committee deliberations and any other information that pertains to the construction of elementary facilities.

 

China Earthquake Disaster Relief: This past Monday morning some of our youngest students had gathered on the black top with a sign and a collection box. These students, moved by the tragedy in China, wanted to make a difference! Since this month’s word of the month is initiative, I wanted to support these 1st, 2nd and 3rd graders and have approved their relief effort. Please consider giving whatever you can! They will be on the blacktop with their parents on Tuesday and Thursday. Look for them by the Humpty Dumpty bench! If you want to send money to school you can do that any day over the course of the next week. I will keep a collection container in the office. Generally we work through our social action committee when organizing such efforts but when children want to “do something to help” my first response is how can I help make that happen!

 

MCAS Days: For some reason it seems that MCAS season is longer that any other year. In fact it continues to fill two weeks in May in addition to the earlier sessions in March and April. Our 4th and 5th grade students have devoted many mornings to take these assessments. WE appreciate when children arrive at school, on time and are well rested and take the test seriously. Late arrivals and absences mean that faculty must clear their schedules additional days to administer the missed assessments. Children on the other hand have to take some times two sessions in one day in a setting away from their class. This to me is not ideal! Please continue to support your child and their teachers during this demanding time! WE appreciate all your efforts!

 

Thank YOU! I would be remiss if I did not extend my sincerest thanks to those who made so many exciting events happen this month and last! In April we reaped the benefits of Newton Serves! All those shiny door stops, clean railings and desks, newly painted furniture, and a host of repairs, not to mention the custom-made cubbies and the yeoman work that went into bringing one large cabinet upstairs are some of the projects inside the school. Freshly spread mulch and a clean outside all helped to make us feel respected by the community. The kids are right…Cabot School ROCKS thanks to your efforts!

 

Then in a matter of days it seemed faculty and staff was treated to a Faculty Appreciation Luncheon. Scrumptious food, high quality entertainment, and the generosity of parents who waited on us, all made this year a very special moment! We had the Cabot Parent Chorus sing many of our old time favorites. I must admit I did get a bit teary as they sang “Teaching Cheek to Cheek!” Without skipping a beat the week ended with the Cabot fair! Despite an overcast sky, it was clear that parents, children and teachers turned out to have a good fun day! There was so much cheer and goodwill there seemed to be sunshine all over the place! Sincere thanks goes to the Fair organizers and all their deputies. I must say that we had what I believe to be, the largest number of teachers in the dunk tank and at other stations at the fair! We owe them a round of thanks as well!

Cabot Fair brought us together as a community.  What a special day for all who attended and contributed. You kept our legacy alive and healthy!

 

June Special events: Some say leaving a school can be hard, so I thought I would fill many of my last days together with your children. I have a few things in store for them:

 

Whole School BBQ- June 9: Children can order a special lunch. Call 617.559.9015   or log onto http://www.newton.k12.ma.us/foodservices/and click on lunch menu to make an order if you have misplaced the lunch menu. DO NOT WAIT TOO LONG! The lunch periods will occur as they do regularly except we will get our food from the 8ft. grill provided by Newton Food Services who will prepare all the food. I will be outside for all the lunches and “hang out with students. I will speak to CASP and the kindergarten teacher so students who are not at school normally that day can participate!



 

Vocabulary Day/All School Walk- Jun 10: I have wanted to have a celebration of words. Thanks to several teachers who offered to help organize this day, students will work with their teachers and at home to dress up” as their word. While this is not a costume party, children will display their words in a variety of ways based on their grade level. While the motto of the day is “Keep It Simple” I simply want to have more fun! We will take a short walk through the neighborhood including Washington Park. All school walks for evacuation drills or for fitness have been some of the best day for the children and teachers. Walking can bring out so many good attributes…like smiling and laughing, talking and chatting, and even waving and showing off a few houses where students live! We maybe looking for a FEW parent volunteers that day; just speak to Ms Bennett!

 

Coin Drive Jun 2- Jun 16: I have asked Mr Lacatell to lead this effort. One of my favorite organizations is FAR- Foundation for African Relief. I was introduced to the work of FAR by a former Cabot parent Lisa Hirschhorn, M.D. Dr. Hirschhorn does work all over the world focused on the treatment and prevention of aids/HIV. She brought doctors from Ghana to the school several years ago. Our former students raised money to paint the school, and to purchase medical supplies. On some of my visit to Ghana I would take medical supplies. This summer I plan to join the medical doctors associated with FAR in leading a weeklong clinic in Accra. We hope to give medical care to more than 1000 people during the week. FAR also establishes programs for Ghanaian and other African doctors to be trained at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School. Children can help this effort by bringing in their spare change. Every penny can represent a person who can be evaluated by this outstanding team of American and Ghanaian doctors. Our goal is to collect 500,000 pennies or the equivalent in a two-week period. If we exceed our target we will be making it possible for this team to start their efforts in other more remote locations. Teachers at Lincoln-Eliot are joining this effort as well. I am so pleased by the interest and hope children will feel that they can say good-bye in this meaningful way. Every penny counts and I think everyone can contribute at least 1 cent! Look for a flyer coming home during the last week in May!

 

Principal for a Half Day! I will also host a special last “Principal for the Day”! Each year I take the Principal for the Day to the Educational Center at 100 Walnut Street to meet the Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Young and other administrators. Then together we treat students who take lunch orders from teachers as part of their curriculum to Cabot’s Ice Cream. This year I want to surprise them with a special trip. I don’t want to give away too many details yet! I guarantee you that this will be a very exciting day!

Leaving Cabot School: Is this your last year at Cabot School? Are you relocating to another school in Newton, Massachusetts or the country? Are you moving out of the country? Tell us NOW! We begin placement shortly and will want to make the best decisions. Contact Mrs. Driscoll in writing ASAP. We have paperwork you must complete and Mrs. Driscoll can share the process for transferring student records.

 





  PTO Pen





 

As we all wait and watch for the results of tonight’s special election’s results, we must appreciate what we have in our school system and help our city officials do their job to keep our schools running as best as possible.  Lot is being achieved in our schools through the continued support of the parents and the community at large.

The testament of the support is the success of, during this school year, each and every event at Cabot, and the amount of money we have raised to make Cabot a better place for our children.  We hope that next year, irrespective of the results of the elections, we will work together to enrich the programs at Cabot and support the interim principal and his staff.

 

This year has been so successful because of the innumerable hours of dedication by Mary Kathryn, so many parents who are chairing various committees, and the volunteers who help us day after day.  To show our appreciation for the contributions made by Mary Kathryn and her team, we will have a PTO Appreciation Evening celebration at my place, 53 Sheffield Road, Newtonville, on Friday June 13th, from 5:30 – 7:00 PM.   I hope you can join us for this special event and RSVP me at auvpto at aol.com.  Please bring some finger food or drinks to share.

 

Working so closely with Dr. Quarcoo, the wonderful staff, Mary Kathryn and co-chairs of so many committees has definitely been a great learning and humbling experience for me personally.  In closing, I hope for your continued support next year and see you around!!!

 

Mary Kathryn Fallon                              Archana Vahalia

PTO co-President                              PTO co-President

 

 





   Recent Events at cabot





 

Cabot Fair! and a huge Thank You goes to…… 

 

Despite being a cold, windy, rainy day, the Cabot Community came out in force and made this year’s Fair a whole lot of fun for everyone. 

 

Highlights were the dunk tank (thank you teachers!), games & cool prizes, incredible raffle and auction, pony rides, yard sale, great food, and the chance to see lots of friends. As always, it is a day that reminds us of what an amazing school and community Cabot is for all of us. 

 

The Fair requires the efforts of hundreds of Cabot families and friends to put on all of the events and activities that make it such a fun day. So many of you helped make this a fun day and we thank you all. 

 

Our committees spent countless hours preparing to make this year's fair a great event.  For all they did, we'd like to thank: Carolyn Eggert (Bake Sale), Emily Hess (Volunteer Central), Daphne Potter (Food (cotton candy too!!!) and Volunteers), Sue Sagan (Games), Sandy Connors, Rose Coppola-Flynn and KB Spector (Prizes), Maureen Mullowney and Anya Bassett (Publicity), Mackenzie and Chris Dreese (Punch Board), the amazing Jo Doherty, Kate Johnson, Julie Bourgoin, Jen Abbott, Andrea Steenstrup, Teresa Tocher, Claire Ryan-Robertson, Brenna Coughlin, Lisa Griggs, Ilyse Greenberg, Sharon Donnelly, and Vani Sayeedand (Raffle/Auction), Noelle Huntington and Lisa Robinson(Yard Sale), Mary Heney (Tickets), Andrea Plotkin, Julie Stonehill and Lynda Cain (Face Painting), Sharon Witham(Candy-grams), Helen Cao (Cabot Goods), Rosemary Thomsen and Joy Huber (Treasurers). And of course, thanks to Cabot PTO Co-Chairs Mary Kathryn Fallon and Archana Vahalia, for their tireless support and enthusiasm.

 

A special thanks goes to Russell Kaplan for rocking the event as our DJ; to Dana Bennett for trusting us with her gymnasium; to Steve Giroux, Nicole Farrah and Jerry Dwyer of Giroux Brothers Martial Arts for cool karate demonstrations and board breaking; and as always, to Cabot's custodians, Kenny and Dave, for getting us everything we needed! 

 

An extra warm round of applause goes to the victims of the dunk tank: Mr. Wong, Mr. Velutto, Mr. Giroux, Mr. Dwyer, Mr. T, Ms. Conroy, Mr. Whitney and Chuck from CASP. They made the week leading up the Fair and the Fair itself very exciting by sitting above that big red target. (We got them warm water this year, but couldn’t quite swing the warm weather…). 

 

And to those who stepped up when we needed a hand, you to deserve one as well, especially Lisa, Ryan and Brendan Barry; Sally Campbell; Mike, Mackenzie and Chris Dreese; Jasper Reid, Mark Geffen, Regina & Shawn Hoyt, Jina and Freddie Pierce; Alan Ripp; Melinda Roman and Emily Clott; Paul, John and Mark Sagan; Jake and Bob Ezzell; Sue and Connor Finegan and Sally Brickell. 

 

And last, but by no means least, thanks to the legions of volunteers who gave their time and good spirits despite the drizzle to staff all of the games and stations to make the Fair so much fun for all our kids! A HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO ALL! Laura Dreese and Deb Klein.

 

Staff Appreciation Luncheon

The annual Staff Appreciation Lunch on May 6 ran smoothly and provided a well-deserved morale boost for Cabot teachers and staff. Thanks to the hard work of many parents—who drove, shopped, cooked, decorated, set up, and cleaned up—the gym was transformed, and the teachers and staff were wined (well, almost) and dined in high style. The highlight of the lunch was a musical appearance by the Cabot Parent Chorus, skillfully performing dance moves and songs from their original repertoire and bringing smiles and tears to many faces.

 

Special thanks to Shaw’s Supermarket in Newtonville for their generous donation.

 

Thanks also to all of the helpers and volunteers, including Ms. Bennett and Mr Meliones; and parents Jen Borhegyi, Sandy Connors, Kate Dulit, Carolyn Eggert, Mary Kathryn Fallon, Alison Galbraith, Jenny Gamson, Joanne Gatnik, Jocelyn Goldberg, Mary Heney, Roberta Hing, Karen Jauregui, Deb Klein, Karen Levy, Julie Lindstrom, Cindi Lockeby , Michelle Markert, Judy McMorrow, Jeanmarie Patriacca, Andrea Plotkin, Lori Seuch, Teresa Tocher, Archana Vahalia, and Faith Witte.

 

Special thanks to the talented members of the Cabot Parent Chorus, led by Laurie Otten and accompanied by Sayuri Miyamoto; and to the members of the Acknowledgment Committee, Sharon Dwyer, Suzy Enyeart, Tera Hirsch, Kate Johnson, Sandee Simshauser, and Helen Ventouris.

 

Ruby Bridges visits Cabot 

On May 7th, we had a very special visitor at Cabot School.  Ms. Ruby Bridges, the first African American child to enter the newly desegregated New Orleans school system in 1960 as a 1st grader, spoke to our 1st to 5th graders.  She spoke of civil rights, introducing historical and legal concepts related to civil rights.  There were lively discussions by the students about what could be done if they felt their rights were being challenged.  The spirit of activism is alive at Cabot School!  They heard about her experiences through her six-year old perceptions entering an all white school amidst hatred and bigotry.  Ms. Bridges is living history and we hope that the children will always remember her powerful message of tolerance, respect, and appreciation of all differences.  

 

What a terrific experience the kids had from the Ruby Bridges' visit.  There were many delighted faces in the audience listening to her speak and it is an experience that both the students and the adults alike will remember for a long time. Thanks so much to Sandy Connors, Faith Witte for all your work, all year long, enriching the learning experience of our students!!

 

5th Grade Social Action Art Reception at Cabot Park Village

On Thursday May 15th, the 5th graders donated to the Cabot Park Village 3 truly wonderful works of art. The students created three collaborative murals for their neighbors at the Cabot Park Village senior housing complex.  They also prepared a book of personal reflections on what making these art pieces meant to

them and how they hope they will be received. This project is a natural outgrowth of our Cabot school core values and Celebrating Our Differences curriculum. The Newton TV people were on hand to film the event as well. Thanks again to Sue Covitz and members of the 5th grade Social Action Committee.

 

A Happy Story
Cabot 4th graders Sonia Joffe and Dina Abdallah recently had a lemonade stand.  They sold both lemonade and home-made dog biscuits. They decided to purchase 2 books for the Cabot Library with the proceeds.  Keep your eyes out for a book on Dogs and on How to Care for Dogs.  Thanks for thinking of Cabot School Sonia and Dina!

 

Art Happenings

Thanks to 3rd grade families for making our Elephant Art Auction a great success!  The show is still up in the Fine Arts wing until the end of the week, if you still haven't made it to the show, please stop by!  As a grade we raised $330 to purchase a real painting done by an elephant in Thailand.  The website to learn more is www.elephantart.com and our specific elephant painting the 3rd graders voted to buy is found on the following page : http://www.elephantart.com/catalog/default.php?cPath=71   painting #013 is our final winner!  We hope to receive the painting by the end of the year! The winner of the sterling silver elephant necklace went to Chris Dreese in Ms. Bargande's class.  Thanks again to all who participated! Kelly Conroy.

 





 Upcoming Events at cabot





 

Meet & Greet Interim Principal Mr. Jim Swaim – May 23rd, 8:30 – 9:30 AM, Cabot Library

You are all invited to come and meet Mr. Jim Swaim at an informal coffee this Friday, May 23, from 8:30 – 9:30 in the Cabot School Library.  Please join us in welcoming the newly appointed interim principal for the 2008/09 school year into the Cabot Community and support him in his work with Cabot next year. 

 

Color Day is Finally Here!!!

June 3rd is Color Day!  Please join in your child's day and help with this great end-of-the-schoolyear event marked by games, races, mystery counts, and other friendly competition.  Dana Bennett, PE teacher extraordinaire, needs 40 volunteers to man the activity stations and cheer our children on.  Can you help?  We need volunteers from 9:00 to approximately 12 o'clock.  Cross your fingers for great weather! Please RSVP as soon as possible to Daphne Potter (dfpotter at rcn.com) or 617-795-0540.

 

Cabot End of Year BBQ on June 9th with a raindate of June 11th 

Order for the BBQ on-line using the http://www.mykidsspending.com site or using the school lunch menu hard copy.  

 

LAST PTO MEETING OF THE YEAR!

Join us for the Final PTO Meeting of the year on Tuesday, June 10th at 8:40am in the Library.  At this meeting we will review last year’s budget, submit the PTO budget for the 2008 – 2009 school year for approval, elect our new PTO Officers and briefly recap other important issues. Also, come along and find out what PTO positions are currently still available and which committees need members.

 

Community-wide 'Celebration of Teaching' - June 12, 2008 Cabot School 3:30 – 5:30 PM 

We are hosting a celebration for Dr. Quarcoo and Mrs. Mann as they retire from Cabot School.  We will have music, refreshments, and a presentation of memory books to Marilynne and Marcie.  This event is open to all students, parents, alumni and faculty.  Please help us in spreading the word to anyone you know who is no longer part of the Newton schools. So mark your calendars and we hope you can be part of these special celebrations! If you would like to help out with this event, please contact Sally Brickell at brickland6 at rcn.com Please drop off items for the memory books in the  PTO mail box or mail them to Cabot School, attn.: Memory Books, 229 Cabot Street, Newtonville, MA 02460.

 

PTO PICNIC – LAST DAY OF SCHOOL

Join the Cabot Community for an informal picnic after the last day of school, June 19, 2008, at 12:00 noon on the field.  Bring a picnic lunch and join the fun!  Most of the classes are also planning their own little picnics, stay tuned for more details.

 

 





CABOT BROADCAST





 

 

Vote for Ron’s Gourmet Ice Cream and Bowling -Proud Mayor urges community to vote for Hyde Park Ice Cream Shop Among Best in Nation

Ron’s Gourmet Ice Cream and Bowling is where the Cabot community hosts its annual Cabot Connecting Families Bowling event.  They have always been very generous to us and now we can help them out! Read on and take a minute to go to the link below and vote for Ron’s as the best Ice Cream in the nation:

 

Message from the Office of the Mayor Thomas M. Menino: Mayor Menino is proud to announce that Ron's Gourmet Ice Cream & 20th Century Lanes at 1231 Hyde Park Ave. has been nominated as 1 out of the 4 best ice cream shops in the nation by Good Morning America and next week your votes can make this Boston favorite #1! Famous for their gourmet ice cream, which owner Ron Covitz and his family have been making since the 1970s, this family-run establishment boasts 26 regular flavors, plus 9 seasonal flavors and a "Flavor of the Month" – all homemade. Mayor Menino's favorites are Mint Chip and Cookie Dough. The shop also has 10 lanes of bowling. 

 

"Ron's is a great neighborhood place and as a life long Hyde Park resident I could not be any more proud that this establishment has been chosen for this national contest," Mayor Menino said. "I urge

everyone who has ever tasted this terrific ice cream to support Ron and vote for this local business."

 

In April, Good Morning America asked their fans to write essays about their favorite ice cream shops across the country. From the content and amount of essays the show received, Ron's was chosen as a

finalist. But the real contest starts this Sunday, May 18th, to see which shop is the #1 and here's your chance to get involved. To log in your votes, you can go to: www.cityofboston.gov starting on Sunday and click on the link to vote for Ron's. Covitz and his staff will be appearing on a Good Morning America segment that morning. The other three finalists are ice cream shops in Florida, Missouri, and

California. Some highlights of Ron's ice cream making career:

 

1. Ron's Gourmet Ice Cream was chosen as the third-best ice cream parlor in the world in National Geographic's "The Ten Best of Everything, The Ultimate Guide for Travelers" in 2007;

 

2. Awarded a Phantom Gourmet "Great Ate" for ice cream in 2004;

 

3. Awarded Best of Boston from Boston Magazine 1995 and 1996;

 

4. Awarded "Most Kid-Friendly" for the Ice Cream and Bowling Alley from the Parent's Paper.


Ron's is also the site of Red Sox pitcher Manny Del Carmen's annual fundraiser "Bowling Strikes for Schools" that raises money for Boston  Public Schools. If you have any questions, you can contact

Jennifer B. Mehigan, Deputy Press Secretary, Mayor Thomas M. Menino's Office, Room 603 Boston City Hall, Boston, MA 02201, Tel (617) 635 4461.

 

An evening with Judy Blume - June 6th, 5:00 – 6:30 PM, Pine Manor College

You are invited to an evening with  your beloved author of “Are you there God? It’s me Margaret”, the “Fudge” books, and the new “Pain & the Great One”, chapter book series featuring a brother and a sister.  Tickets are $20 per person.  This event is hosted by Ward School PTO.  For more details, visit http://wardpto.org/judyblume.

 

NEWTON SCHOOL’S GIFT POLICY

As we reach the end of the year please remember the Newton School Committee Policy:  “No teacher in the performance of regular duties shall receive presents from the pupils under his or her direction.”  Each year families are reminded of this policy, and each year most families comply.  It is very natural for children and their families to want to acknowledge and thank their teachers at the end of the year.  

Here are some suggestions: 


A note of appreciation to your child’s teacher, or a card made by your child, would be treasured.  

A homemade acknowledgement to your child’s teacher or faculty member, such as cookies or baked goods.

A donation of a book to the library in honor of your teacher.  Please see Ms. Gerson for a form.


 

Please do not solicit money from families for class gifts.

 

If you need further clarification please speak with the Principal Marilynne Quarcoo or your PTO co-presidents. Thank you for your cooperation.

 

THANK YOU to this year's SAFE ARRIVAL/CALL BACK Volunteers!!!

 

The Cabot Safe Arrival/Call Back Program helps ensure that children arrive safely at school each morning.   The Cabot Safe Arrival/Call Back Program has been a tremendous success because of parent involvement.  

 

A special Thank You to this year's volunteers!   Lisa Bibuld, Julie Bourgoin, Sally Campbell, Kate Dulit, Ann Duvall, Alison Galbraith, Jenny Gamson, Vicki Gartland, Henry Grossman, Zhuo Guan, Eric Gubert, Gail Harris, Martha Hincks, Jennifer Hyde, Chris Kjellson, Deb Klein, Mona Lisa Neville, Susan Phillips, Lisa Porter, Wilfredo Reyes, Sharon Salwen, Ginger Stolzenthaler, Lisa Svensson, Pascale Torracinta, Margaret Wazuka & Kathleen Young.

 

If you have about 40 minutes in the morning just after drop off, you can be a part of this important program at Cabot.  You can volunteer for one morning a week for a month or more if you wish. Although the job is simple, it is extremely important because it helps keep our children safe.  It is also a great way to get to know the school, teachers, and children.  If you are interested in volunteering or want more info, contact  Ann Manaktala, coordinator 617-964-1510 or email  manaktalaa at citi.com. 

 

Cabot is Going Green – Thanks to Cabot’s 5th Graders!

As many of you have probably noticed by now, the small bins for recycling plastic bottles and cans have finally arrived. The bins were provided for free by the MA Department of Environmental Protection.  Please visit their website www.thegreenteam.org and bookmark it for your students. I never expected this project would take from September to May to accomplish. Thanks to Marilynne for her support, to Kenny for his help and to Julielle Kahn, Mark Sagan and Donnalyn Kahn for their advocacy with the mayor which resulted in the procurement of the large, wheeled bins. Happy recycling! Alice Cunningham, Building Aide.

 

33rd Annual Village Day in Newton Higlands on Sunday, June 8th from 12:00 to 5:00 PM

Newton Highlands Village day is a community event organized by the Newton Highlands Neighborhood Area Council and the Hyde Community Center.  This event draws thousands of people to Newton Highlands, and activities include a popular road race, a Silent Auction, live musical performances, and amusement rides.  Many merchants and vendors, including those with crafts, food, and other items participate in Village Day events. Booths are available for Village Day.  Please contact John Rice at 617-201-7088 or email director at hydecenter.org for a booth. 

 

"Honor Thy Teacher"...or principal, or crossing guard, or ???  

Are you looking for a meaningful way to show your gratitude to the teacher who spent the extra time, the administrator who went the extra mile, or the support staff member who encouraged and inspired your child?  Take part in the Newton Schools Foundation's 11th annual 'Honor Thy Teacher' campaign.  This year the Foundation distributed approximately $200,000, and over $2.5 million since inception, in grants to teachers and others who work with your children.  These grants provide programs and materials not covered in the budget.  Over the years, over 450 grants have impacted all students in all schools through all curriculum areas. As a result, our schools have piloted innovative initiatives including: interactive technology such as SmartBoards, cutting edge curriculum such as SIMMS, advanced professional development in the use of technology in curriculum delivery and the training of over 150 volunteer math tutors for the elementary schools.  Without Newton School Foundation's grants, these things simply would not happen.  Each spring families are invited to pause and think about school personnel who have made a difference in their child's life.  Honor that special teacher or educator by making a donation to the Newton Schools Foundation. Honored teachers receive a card of thanks in the donor’s name. Also your child and the community sees the honored teacher celebrated in the annual “Honor Thy Teacher” spread in the Newton TAB. Checks may be made out to "Newton Schools Foundation" and mailed, along with a note containing the name and school of the teacher to be honored, to:  Newton Schools Foundation, 100 Walnut Street, Newton, Ma 02460.  Info: www.newtonschoolsfoundation.org 617-559-6120 or nsfinfo at newton.ka12.ma.us.

 

 





COMMUNITY NEWS





 

 

Provide your children with the nutritious food they need to do their best in school 

Do your children receive free or reduced school lunch? Are you eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit? Do you receive Fuel Assistance? If you meet the criteria for these programs, you may also meet the income guidelines for food assistance through the federal Food Stamp Program. For more information call Project Bread’s Food Source Hotline at 800-645-8333.

 

Summer Tennis w/Newton Parks and Recreation 

Nationally recognized program for kids, adults/everyone.  Kids may enroll for one or several weeks, and may attend AM and/or PM classes.  Most classes begin the week of June 23rd and session 2 for adults begins the week of July 21st.  Adult clinics; AM and PM, 3-Day Intensive, Round Robins!  Please visit www.newtontennis.com for more info or to download and application, or if you still have questions, you may call (617) 661-PLAY.  Sign up now! 

 

The City of Newton’s Parks and Recreation Department offers more than 15 quality summer camps for children from pre-K to high school, from sports clinics to arts, from theatre to outdoor adventure.  Many of these camps offer extended days.  Info: www.ci.newton.ma.us/parks or 617-796-1500.  Register at www.activityreg.com. 

 

Arts in Action Children’s  Summer Program at the New Art Center:  

Have your child spend the summer creating art!  8 weeks of its popular ‘Arts in Action’ Summer Program.  7/7-8/29, Mon-Fri, 9am-3:30pm.  Kids grades 1-5 in the fall attend 5 classes daily: drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture and more with talented art instructors.  Register for one week or all eight.  A new and creative theme each week.  Info: www.newartcenter.org or 617-964-3424.  

 

NCSC Summer Day Camp Registration is Underway. 

Hale Reservation in Westwood offers boating, Red Cross swim lessons and free swim, arts and crafts, fishing, archery, ropes challenge course, nature activities, athletics, cookouts, special events, overnights and more.  6/23-8/22. Meet at 8 for 8:30 bus which returns at 4:30.  Extended Camp ‘til 6 available.  $540/2-week session.  Info and registration: www.ncscweb.org, then ‘summer camp’ or (617) 969-5906 x 224.

 

 "Colorful Chemistry"  

Lava lamps, slime rainbows, UV Bracelets and colorful totebags... 'The Wicked Cool Girls Science Club' has expanded this spring.  By popular demand there are three four-week classes offered, two at Peirce on Thursday starting May 1st, and the second starting May 15th.  The third class is underway Wednesdays at Zervas.  All three classes run four weeks from 3:15 to 4:15.  For more info or to register: 617-559-6999 www.newtoncommunityed.org.  Additional Summer Community Ed programs are also posted on the website.

 

 

Unaccompanied Refugee Minor Program is looking for foster parents who can take in Burmese children arriving in Massachusetts.  Many have lost their parents due to war or death, so long-term placement is what's most helpful.  A home with basic English skills, a stable environment and a warm welcome is what these children need.  Lutheran Community Services is a foster care agency working with foster parents and refugee children.  Case management services are provided.  Social worker Laura Westerling writes, "The Burmese youth who have already arrived and are wonderful and SO excited to learn in school."  For more information, contact Program Director Jeanne Woodward at 781-997-0875 or Jwoodward at lcssne.org or write:  Unaccompanied Refugee Minor Program, Lutheran Community Services, 888 Worcester Street, Suite 160, Wellesley, Ma 02482. 

 

Fall Registration for Newton Girls Soccer is now open:  

All--Intramural and Travel--should register now.  Those planning to take part in the Fall 2008 Travel program are urged to register right away, because the placement process is about to begin.  Register even if you signed up for and attended the travel tryouts.  You will not be placed on a team without registering.  Travel registration is now for the entire year: Fall '08 and Spring '09.  Please Note - Due to the late registration start, the official deadline for Travel registration has been moved back to May 23rd, but that's just days away.  Go to www.newtongirlssoccer.org to register on-line.  Questions?  registrar at newtongirlssoccer.org or 617-527-7728.  Newton Girls Soccer, P.O. Box 610333, Newton, Ma. 02461.     

 

"Kindertransport":  

A Newton South Stage production.  May 29, 30 and 31 at 7:30 pm.  Newton South Lab Theatre at Newton South High School.  Tickets: $8.  www.southstage.org.  617-559-6594. 

 

Host Families needed for three weeks starting July 18th.  

10 Chinese Students will be coming to the Boston area to learn English through the non-profit "People Link".  These students will take morning classes and afternoon excursions, and have weekly field trips.  English-speaking families willing to open their homes to these students will have a chance to interact with another culture while sharing American culture and volunteerism.  If you or someone you know in the Newton/Brookline/Allston-Brighton/Chestnut Hill area is willing to provide room and board, this could be the beginning of a very beautiful friendship.  Go to www.peoplelink.org/hostfamily.html or contact Keara Marie Eagan at eagankm at gmail.com or eagank at bc.edu. 

 

Volunteer to help in the Celebrate Newton! December crafts fair
Sara Coen, the organizer of Celebrate Newton!, the December crafts fair for Newton crafters, is looking for volunteers to help her plan the event next year. Each year the event grows in popularity and more people are needed to help.  The funds raised go to the Newton Schools Foundation.  PTO Council provides support and helps with publicity.  If you are interested, please contact Sara at saracoen3 at aol.com.  Thanks!



Youk's Kids Reading Group

Red Sox star Kevin Youkilis and his charity “Hits For Kids” has launched “Youk's Kids Reading Group” with the New England Mobile Book Fair in Newton.  The reading group is open to all children up to the age of 15.  Every member receives a $5.00 Book Fair gift certificate on his/her birthday.  In addition, members can submit a short essay about reading and each month, winners in several age categories will receive an official baseball autographed by Kevin Youklis. At the end of the baseball season, Grand Prize essay contest winners will be announced and invited to have lunch with Kevin Youkilis.   Details about Youk's Kids Reading Group and “Hits for Kids” can be found at www.nebookfair.com.  

 

Antique Doll Exhibit at the Newton Free Library:  

See 17 dolls from the Newton History Museum dating to 1860 by famous and not-so-famous makers. On display at the Newton Free Library through May 30th.  Free.

 

Last Chance to see Hyphenated-Origins: Going Beyond the Labels.  

Closes May 25th.  Curated by 7 Newton High School Students whose families emigrated from Hong Kong, Russia, Mexico, China and South Korea.  This exhibit shares their stories and explores the advantages and challenges of forming an identity between two cultures.  Free with admission to the Newton History Museum, 527 Washington Street.  617-796-4150.   

 

SPACE 2008 is still accepting students for this summer!

SPACE is an enrichment program of the Newton Public Schools for students entering kindergarten through grade 9.  Lower School (grades K -4) students are placed in age level groups working on our summer theme of "The Wonderful World of Nature."  Upper School (grades 5-9) students are able to take a variety of electives courses in the arts, sports, sciences, academics and other interesting challenges.  The program is held at Day Middle School in Newtonville.  Our staff is Newton teaching staff aided by graduate school, college and high school students.

 

The fees vary according to the program you choose for your student.  We have extended day from 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. and from 3:45 - 6:00 p.m.  The morning program fee for the entire four weeks is $1,000.  The full day program fee is $1,500. for the four weeks.  We also offer a family discount and limited scholarship aid. 

 

If you haven't made plans yet for the summer, think about joining the fun and learning opportunities at SPACE 2008! SPACE at newton.k12.ma.us or 617-559-6150

 

T-ville Trails Summer Program

The newest Newton Parks and Recreation camp for children entering K-2nd grade, will run from July 7th-August 15th at Bowen School.  Standard day, 8:30am-3:30pm, is $175 per week for Newton residents.  Extended day options are available from 8-5 or until 6.  Campers may participate in sports, arts and crafts, cooking, water play, and more.  For more information, contact Sasha Bordett at Newton Parks and Recreation at (617) 796-1500 or sbordett at newtonma.gov.  Visit our website at http://www.ci.newton.ma.us/Parks/SummerCamps/t-ville for info and registration forms.

 

 

 





CLASSIFIEDS





 

 

All That Jazz Dance Studio

All That Jazz Dance Studio is now accepting registration for the fall, as well as for our summer session: June 23rd-July 31st.   New this summer: Dance Camp Intensive Programs for the weeks of June 23rd, July 7th, July 14th and July 21st.  We offer classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Musical Theater Dance, Funky Jazz, and Modern/Lyrical for ages 2-adult.  Classes are taught by experienced professionals who love children and believe in making the process of learning how to dance fun.  Please call Deb Vogel at 617-641-0784, email her at missdeb at allthatjazznewton.com or check out our website: www.allthatjazznewton.com to find out more information and to register.  Don’t forget to ask Miss Deb about having your birthday party at All That Jazz! 

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