GWHS PTSA

California State PTA Prepares Action Plan

2010-02-26T16:33:00.001-08:00

Three important initiatives lead the way for investing in children
Now is the time for action to help California's more than 9 million children. California State PTA is leading the call for action with three important initiatives. We'll be telling you more about each of these in the coming days and weeks.

Here is a brief look at what we have planned.

1. PTA Opposes Additional Cuts in Governor's Proposed Budget for 2010-2011

Soon you will receive materials for California State PTA's "9 Million Reasons To Speak Up" campaign, which will include a fact sheet and action plan to assist PTA members in speaking up for the more than 9 million children in California who need our voice to be heard in opposition to further cuts to education and critical children's services.

2. PTA SUPPORTS Qualifying the "Local Control of Local Classrooms Funding Act" for November 2010 Ballot

On January 30, the California State PTA officially endorsed the "Local Control of Local Classrooms Funding Act." If qualified for the November 2010 ballot and approved by voters, the act would lower the threshold for passage of local school funding measures to 55 percent (just like school bond measures), from the current two-thirds, provided certain conditions are met. PTA members are being urged to sign the petition to qualify this measure for the ballot at www.improvedschoolfunding.com and to actively participate in gathering the approximately 1 million signatures that the measure needs to qualify by early April. Click here for guidelines on PTA participation in this important process and how you can be part of it. Click here to read our recent press release on this initiative.

3. PTA To Join School Finance Lawsuit Against the State

On January 30, the Board of Managers approved California State PTA's participation as a plaintiff in a pending school finance lawsuit against the State of California. California State PTA will join the California School Boards Association and the Association of California School Administrators as principal plaintiffs in this case. Because the case has not yet been officially filed, we are not able to release specific details. They will be forthcoming once the case is filed, most likely in the spring.

Please stay posted, by going to our website - www.capta.org - and by encouraging everyone you know to join in our efforts. We must work together to protect the well-being of our children today and tomorrow - and the future of our state. Click here to find out more about how everyone can join the California State PTA.

Become a PPS-SF Enrollment Coach

2010-02-26T13:44:00.001-08:00

Parents for Public Schools of San Francisco offers FREE training to parents to become PPS-SF Enrollment Coaches

Enrollment Coaches help parents by coaching families through the RoundII enrollment process.

___________________________________________________

Thursday March 11, 2010

10:00am - 12:00pm

The Women's Building: 3543 18th St.
_____________________________________________________

The training will cover:

* Tips and resources to help parents with RoundII
* How to address questions regarding the proposed Student Assignment System to Round II parents

Who should attend:

* Public School Parents who want to become enrollment coaches.
* PPS Parent Ambassadors who want to be more knowledgeable about the RoundII process.
* Enrollment Coaches who want to brush up on their knowledge.

For more information and to register for a training session

To sign up for free KidsWatch services (ages 3 and up)

Call 415.861.7077 or email ppsevents@ppssf.org

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT AND SERVICE INSTITUTE

2010-02-18T08:00:00.001-08:00

ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 12 (AD12)
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT AND SERVICE INSTITUTE
2010 SUMMARY

OBJECTIVE:
Inspiring high school sophomores and juniors through civic engagement and service to get involved in their communities; providing them with non-partisan and innovative tools to make a difference on a day to day basis.

SUMMARY OF PROGRAM:
Each Sunday for 10 weeks, students will participate in civic engagement related classes from 1pm to 4 pm. There will be instruction and seminars, guest speakers, group activities, field trips, hands on learning and other teaching methods informing students about program content (see below). At the end of the 10 weeks, students will present on policy-making strategies as per the US Department of Education approved Project Citizen Curriculum.

PROGRAM DETAILS:

Who: Sophomores and juniors from High Schools located in AD12.

When: Sundays 1-4 pm; February 28 - May 9, 2010
PLEASE NOTE: APRIL 4- NO CLASS

Where: Janitors’ Hall @ 240 Golden Gate Avenue, San Francisco, CA

PROGRAM CONTENT:
1. Introduction to Public Policy
2. Responsibility of Individual Citizen; Professionalism; Fiscal Responsibility
3. Healthy Living; Environment
4. Interest groups (Labor, Business, Ethnic & Cultural); Non-profits; Religious Diversity
5. Policy-making
6. Social Networking
7. Voting/Voter Registration
8. Community Service and Public Safety
9. Higher Education
10. Final Presentations

For additional information, please email: Bob.Twomey@asm,ca,gov or call 415-557-2312

Founders Day PTA Presidents' and Principals' Annual Dinner

2010-02-06T12:16:00.000-08:00

"Building Community Unity"

Friday. February 19. 2010
TIme: 6:00 pm to 9:00pm
Dinner at 7:00pm
Location: Patio Espanol Restaurant
2850 Alemany Boulevard
San Francisco. CA 94112
Price $45.00 per person

RSVP February 10. 2010

Dinner Form
http://www.bigtent.com/usr/files/29605994_2_00_2ndDISTPTADINNER2010.pdf

Make check payable to: Second District PTA
send Check and this form to: 555 Franklin Street. Rm203-D
San Francisco. California 94102.
For more
information call 2416048 or email 2ndpta@sfpta.org

Dinner Form
http://www.bigtent.com/usr/files/29605994_2_00_2ndDISTPTADINNER2010.pdf

Event RSVP
------------------------------------------
RSVP: http://www.bigtent.com/home/calendar/event/26625578?md=MTg0MzkxNjg=

College Prep Workshop

2010-02-06T12:02:00.001-08:00

College Prep Workshop: for 11th graders and parents

Preparation is key to success!

Learn what to anticipate this year and next. Find out about college entrance exams and applications, and what classes to take. Bring your high school transcripts for evaluation.

Presenter: Donald Woodson
Mr. Woodson has over 17 years of experience working in university student access. He is the Director of Outreach, Recruitment and Retention Programs for the Graduate Division and the Interim Director of the Center for Science and Education Opportunities at UCSF.

This FREE workshop is sponsored by Campus Life Services Arts & Events.

Wednesday, February 17 from 5:30-6:230 p.m.

Millberrry Union Event and Meeting Center

Contact: Robert Frank, 415.476-146.1469

robert.frank@ucsf.edu

www.campuslifeservices.ucsf.edu/artsvents

Princess Project

2010-02-06T12:01:00.000-08:00

The Princess Project serves San Francisco Bay Area high school girls who
might not otherwise be able to afford a prom dress and accessories. Each
girl determines her own financial need.

Our Values
In addition to helping high school teens attend their prom with style and
confidence, The Princess Project is driven by seven core values.
In everything we do, we strive to honor these values so that we can continue
to provide the most fun and memorable experience for the teens we serve,
volunteers that help, and our generous donors.
1. We celebrate bodies of all sizes and avoid using body imagery in our
marketing and outreach. Body-oriented graphics and artwork‹like torso
sillouettes, dress outlines or generic, stock prom photos‹inadvertently
convey an idealized body size, style and look. By instead using images of
the girls we serve and royalty-related imagery like tiaras and crowns, we
celebrate the beauty and diversity of girls everywhere, in every size.
2. We value the importance of recycling and of using the earth¹s resources
wisely. We seek to show our respect for this recycling process by treating
each clothing and/or accessory donation as valued and important.
3. We trust that girls who are in financial need of garments or accessories
will attend The Princess Project events, and we will welcome them without
question. We in turn will foster the important trust of our donors, who give
to The Princess Project with the intent that girls in need will benefit.
4. We strive to offer meaningful volunteer leadership opportunities for
women, and seek to provide a venue for volunteers to grow personally and
professionally. We seek to make The Princess Project planning process
rewarding, educational, and fun for our volunteers.
5. We strive to include representatives of girls that we serve in our
decision-making processes.
6. We strive to create a respectful, fun atmosphere for the girls we serve
at the Dress Giveaway events.
7. We strive to include the diversity of people represented in the Bay Area
community in our volunteer corps.

Donation Guidelines
We have established firm donation guidelines in an effort to streamline our organizational efforts and solicit goods that will reflect our core values and best serve our
constituents.
1. Dresses MUST be from 2002 to present.
2. Dresses MUST be dry-cleaned and on hangers.
3. Dresses MUST be prom dresses, formal gowns, or fancy party dresses.
4. Accessories MUST be stylish, clean, and in excellent condition.
We cannot accept:
* garments that are out of style (purchased before 2002)
* garments that have not been dry-cleaned
* shoes
* make-up
* casual or semi-formal clothing
* wedding dresses
* tuxedos or men¹s clothes
Thank you for observing these guidelines!

2010 Community Dress & Accessory Drive
Dress Drives will be happening throughout January and February 2010. Drop
your Princess Project-ready dress at any of these locations. Please check
their websites for business hours. Please check back frequently for updates.

SAN FRANCISCO
February 8 19, 2010

* Bar Method
* Financial District
* 3 Embarcadero Ctr
* San Francisco, CA 94111
* (415) 956-0446
· Marina
3333 Fillmore Street
San Francisco, CA 94123-2710
(415) 441-6333
* The Blue Jeans Bar
* 1827 Union St
* San Francisco, CA 94123
* (415) 346-4280

* Marc by Marc Jacobs on Fillmore

* 2142 Fillmore Street
* (between California St & Sacramento St)
* San Francisco, CA 94115
* (415) 447-9322
* YMCA Presidio
* 63 Funston Avenue
* San Francisco, CA 94129-1110
* (415) 447-9622
· Starbuck¹s
1899 Union Street
San Francisco, CA 94123
(415) 921-4049
EAST BAY
February 8 19, 2010

* Stoneridge Mall
* One Stoneridge Mall
* Pleasanton, CA 94588
* (925) 463-2778

* Tootsies
* Oakland
* 5525 College Avenue
* Oakland, CA 94618-1538
* (510) 595-7272
· Danville
175 E Prospect Ave
Danville, CA 94526
(925) 552-6638
* Crossroads (locations pending)

* Club Sport
* 350 Bollinger Canyon Lane
* San Ramon, CA 94582
* (925) 735-8500
* Labels
* 1367 N Main Street
* Walnut Creek, CA 94596
* (925) 952-4566

For more information, please see attachment and visit www.princessproject.org

6TH ANNUAL “A DAY AT LAW SCHOOL”

2010-02-06T11:55:00.001-08:00

UC HASTINGS PRESENTS
A DAY AT LAW SCHOOL

SATURDAY, FEB. 20TH
FROM 9 A.M. TO 3 P.M.

6TH ANNUAL “A DAY AT LAW SCHOOL”
@ UC HASTINGS COLLEGE OF THE LAW

198 MCALLISTER ST. @ HYDE ST., SAN FRANCISCO
(SAN FRANCISCO CIVIC CENTER BART STATION)

A FREE EVENT FOR YOUTH AGES 5 - 18
Attend law school for a day, learn steps to succeed in high school and
information about college and law school. Parents session available in
spanish. Door prizes and free school supplies (including pens,
backpack, books, etc). Breakfast and lunch provided.

RSVP BEFORE FEB. 16 BY
CALLING (858) 688-1329 OR
E-MAILING US AT
HASTINGSOUTREACH@ GMAIL.COM

Say NO to Budget Cuts!

2010-01-26T18:39:00.000-08:00

Hello Parent!

Say NO to Budget Cuts! Come to the San Francisco Town Hall Meeting and show the strength of our parent voices! Power in numbers!

Public Education: Funding our Future SF
Thursday, February 25th 2010
Marina Middle School
6:30-8:30 pm
Free parking, free childcare for 3+
RSVP at www.fundingourfuturesf.com
Spread the word and RSVP on our Facebook site

Volunteers needed! Come to the planning meeting on Wednesday, January 20th 6pm at Sherman Elementary School (1651 Union Street).

Event Details

Enough is enough! San Francisco Unified School District is forecasting budget cuts of 10%-20% for the 2010-2011 school year. It is imperative that we find real short and long-term solutions to this unprecedented budget crisis!

On February 25th, join a coalition of parents and city organizations in a community discussion moderated by Michael Krasny, host of KQED’s award-winning Forum.

• Mark Leno, California State Senator
• Fiona Ma, California State Assembly
• Tom Ammiano, California State Assembly
• Carlos Garcia, SFUSD Superintendent of Schools
• Debbie Look, California PTA
• Jim Lazarus, SF Chamber of Commerce
• Leaders from business and education non-profits

Let's look for funding solutions and ways to bring about long-term change together.
We are Funding Our Future.

The discussion will focus on:

• Creative funding solutions to pending budget cuts
• Smarter long-term budget reform
• Local and state-wide parental advocacy efforts

GWHS Protest Information

2010-01-26T18:34:00.000-08:00

January 22, 2010

Dear Washington High School Community,

We have been informed that there is a possibility that an organization may be holding small protests at Washington High School on Friday, January 29th from 3:00-3:30 PM. The group’s press release expresses anti-Semitic, anti-gay and hateful language.

I want to emphasize that Washington High School, in no way, supports the discriminatory beliefs or actions of this group. My priority is to ensure that every member of our community feels safe and secure in who they are. I am saddened that a group such as this has targeted our school and I will do everything I can to mitigate this situation. You might observe some extremely offensive comments or signs while they are present.

These picketers will not be allowed onto Washington’s campus. I have been in contact with the SFPD Richmond Station. They will have officers here on passing calls during this time. Anyone who experiences any distress in anticipation of or during this incident should know that Wellness staff will be on site during this time to support you.

It is my understanding that these picketers will be located on 32nd Avenue. Therefore if you would like to avoid the demonstration, please leave the school on that day from the 30th Avenue gate. If their location changes the administrative staff will inform you. If you do come into contact with these picketers, please remember that retaliating and creating a scene will only escalate the situation. The overwhelming advice I have received is that Washington High School should go on with business as usual, and that the greatest counter-action to this group is for
them to be ignored. I urge you not to engage this group in any way, which I know from other communities’ experience will only prolong their stay.

As you all know, January 29th is a Professional Development Day. Students will not be on site that day. But we should be mindful that this group may protest on a day earlier than planned or that students may return to the school for this protest.

Therefore, the Social Studies Department has put together a short power point presentation for the purposes of a teach-in. This power point is meant to inform students of what they may see or experience if they encounter the picketers. This is also a teachable moment to share the context of the Constitution for all involved. The Social Studies Department will be sharing this with their classes in the first part of the week and I will be asking the Practical Arts Department to share this power-point presentation with the 9th graders during the same time frame. Please feel free to share this letter with your students. A student letter will be available in homeroom.

The Washington Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) will be meeting to plan a response to this demonstration with safety and positive action in mind. As their plans unfold I will keep you updated. Safe place posters are available in my office and buttons have been ordered.

Additionally the Wellness Center is also involved and is here to support staff and students.

Media could be present that day. The goal is to portray ourselves calm in contrast to the hate filled message they have.

As more information is available to me, I will share this with you. We will discuss this at the faculty meeting and the Professional Development meeting. My goal is to assure the safety of all faculty, staff and students if they are in attendance on that day.

Thank you for your cooperation in this matter. If you have any concerns or questions, do not hesitate to contact me in person or via email.

Sincerely,
Ericka Lovrin
Principal
George Washington High School

Budget FAQ

2010-01-18T17:46:00.001-08:00

Budget FAQs:
Frequently asked questions about the upcoming SFUSD budget cuts

Many of you have heard about the unprecedented cuts to education funding California is facing, and the resulting cuts for San Francisco Unified School District. We have heard from Superintendent Carlos Garcia that SFUSD must cut 20% from its budget over the next three years. Some of that will impact the district offices and some, our individual school sites. Here are the answers to some of the questions we have been hearing. As you have more questions or comments, please let us know and we will get you the best answers we can. Please contact the San Francisco District PTA Legislation Chair, Michelle Parker, know via email at legislative@sfpta.org or by phone at 661-2543. Some useful links to more information can be found at the bottom of this Q/A list. Please check back for more information as it becomes available.

1. Why are we facing this budget crisis now? The quick answer is that the entire economy is in a slump and our state is feeling it and is passing the pain. The longer answer goes all the way back to 1976. The California Supreme Court in Serrano v Priest found California’s school finance system unconstitutional because it created huge disparities between high wealth areas and low wealth areas. Education funding moved from one based on local property taxes to a state funded system. This was followed by Prop 13 in 1978 that limited property tax rates to 1 per cent of assessed valuaton. California’s education spending was among the highest in the nation and has steadily gone down hill ever since. It doesn’t help that Prop 98 from 1988 hasn’t had the intended effect either. This constitutional amendment guarantees a minimum funding level from state and property taxes for K-14 public schools, and was meant to establish a floor for school funding, but has instead been looked at as a ceiling. In addition, Prop 98 was suspended in bad budget years and there have been disagreements as to what the base level is which the funding formula now works upon. The last major reason we find ourselves in fights for education funding every year, is that our state legislators have a stalemate every summer on passing the budget because it requires a 2/3 vote to pass. California is one of only three states to have this requirement in its constitution.

2. Is this budget problem happening only at some schools? What about middle and high schools? No! This budget cut will affect every school in the city and has already been affecting the rest of the state. It is possible that every school site will see a 10-20% cut. At worst, that means stripping to the bare bones of regular classroom teachers, a principal and a secretary. For others who are not fully enrolled, it will be even worse. Not all the answers are out there yet of exactly what it will look like; there is a big difference between 10% and 20%.

3. What about the stimulus package money? Where is this going? Much of the stimulus package (as a whole, part of the ARRA) is restricted funding, meaning not everything can be used for just anything. Some schools did see some this year from the SFSF (State Fiscal Stabilization Fund) with more Title 1 (for free and reduced lunch students) and Special Education funds. The district will be applying for a part of the Race to the Top funds, if the state gets those funds. This won’t be a significant amount in terms of our overall budget and will be aimed mostly at innovation and creativity in reaching low-performing students. Helpful, but not available for general use.

4. What about Prop H and Prop A? Didn't we approve mandated spending? Yes, we are still benefiting from both of these measures. The Prop H fund, passed in 2004 (PEEF- or Public Education Enrichment Fund) is still growing and was put in place to provide sports, libraries, arts, music, early childhood programs and other district uses. Prop A (The Quality Teacher and Education Act), passed in 2008, goes primarily to teachers. It is because we have both of these funds, and because of the foresight of San Francisco residents in supporting the Prop G in 2003 (aka the Rainy Day Fund) that San Francisco hasn’t felt the full effects of the budget cuts up until now.

5. How come California appears to spend so little on education vs. say Rhode Island? Because we do. California is currently 47th in the nation for per pupil spending. We spend an average of $7,571 per student, behind states like Mississippi, Florida and Idaho, while the highest spending states (Vermont, $15,139) spend about twice as much per student. California education funding is largely determined at the state level and a 2/3 vote is required to pass the state budget and increase revenue. (In other states, a much higher percentage of school funding comes from local property taxes.) Links to reports that discuss this can be found on this website.

6. Can SFUSD reduce its budget at the administration level vs. the school level? Yes. Superintendent Garcia has already said they will cut as deeply as possible next year of the 3 year cut projections, and plans to have as many of those cuts as possible at the district level, so as to have as little impact on the students as possible. That is why the range given for school site cuts (10-20%) is so large. They are moving line by line to do the best they can to meet student needs.

7. Will we be increasing class sizes next year? What grade levels might be affected? Superintendent Garcia has said that class sizes will likely go up again, but hasn’t given a number. They will know more in January/February. The higher class sizes are likely to affect transitional grades the most: kindergarten, sixth and ninth grades. Past that is still unknown.

8. What can we do about this at our own school sites? Get connected! Sign up for PTA Legislative alerts at http://www.capta.org/sections/advocacy/legislative-alerts.cfm to find out when there are urgent opportunities to advocate for education and children’s issues. Become a member of the city-wide “A Team”, a group of parents and teachers working together to find solutions and to create an action plan to make our voices heard. Create an advocacy or legislation chair in your PTA or PTO and get connected into the district PTA network for training and ways to help. Get organized at your own school: get parents, teachers and administrators together to talk about the right plans and focus for your community. We must tell our legislators that enough is enough! It is time to invest in children. Provide parents with messages to convey to our legislators (which this district network can help you with), actions to take, and events to attend. Our advocacy is to make sure the state meets its responsibility to pay for teachers and on-going public expenses. Remember, no amount of fundraisers will ever make up for adequate funding in the state budget.

1. Do you have more questions? Please contact Michelle Parker through the PTA email: legislative@sfpta.org
2. Where can I go for more information?
• The California State PTA has lots of great resources and information on legislation, advocacy, issues and getting organized at your school www.capta.org. Specific relevant links:
1. California State PTA Legislation Page http://www.capta.org/sections/advocacy/current-legislation.cfm
2. Local PTA Advocacy http://www.capta.org/sections/advocacy/local-advocacy.cfm
3. http://www.pta.org/take_action.asp for information on advocacy at the federal level
4. Online advocacy toolkit http://www.pta.org/3020.asp
• check out www.edsource.org for detailed information on everything you ever wanted to know about California education finance and policy- a fantastic resource! Some of their helpful reports are listed below:
1. “New Federal Education Policies: California’s Challenge” gives the details surrounding the impact of the American Recovery and Investment Act (ARRA) on California’s schools http://www.edsource.org/pub_new-fed-policies.html
2. “School Finance 2008-2009: Fiscal Crisis Meets Political Gridlock” explains the major features of the education budget and some of the complex political and economic factors behind it http://www.edsource.org/pub_SchFin08-09_report.html
3. “Local Revenues for Schools: Limits and Options in California” provides background on schools districts’ current options for raising their own revenues and describes some of the ongoing discussions about ways to allow communities to raise more funds for their schools http://www.edsource.org/pub_new-fed-policies.html
4. “Proposition 98 Sets a Minimum Funding Guarantee for Education” is a short fact sheet http://www.edsource.org/pub_prop98.html
• The SFUSD budget situation “Demystified for the Average Joe” (presentation given to principals this past fall) http://portal.sfusd.edu/data/budget/BudgetPresentationforPrincipals'Meeting.pdf
• “Students First: Renewing Hope for California” The Official Report from the Governor’s Committee on Education Excellence. You will find the executive summary, the full report, as well as a document with answers to frequently asked questions about the education debate in California. http://www.edsource.org/reform_GCEE.html
• California Teachers Association at www.cta.org and http://www.standupforschools.org/
• California Budget Project does independent analysis to improve the lives of low- and middle-income Californians and has a sections with reports on education in their left hand column www.cbp.org. Some great ones are:
1. “How California School’s Get Their Money”- provides an introduction to K-12 school district funding http://www.cbp.org/pdfs/2009/090202_SFF_HowSchoolsGetTheirMoney.pdf
2. “How Does California Compare”- a report about how education is funded in California, the trends in funding and how it is different in other states http://www.cbp.org/pdfs/2007/070926_how_does_ca_compare.pdf
3. “How California’s School Districts Spend Their Funds” http://cbp.org/pdfs/2008/080506_HowDistrictsSpendtheirFunds.pdf
4. “School Finance in California and the Proposition 98 Guarantee” http://cbp.org/pdfs/2006/0604_prop98.pdf
5. “What Will the Federal Economic Recovery Act Mean for California’s Schools?” http://cbp.org/pdfs/2009/090709_SFF_ARRA.pdf
• The most recent LAO (Legislative Analyst’s Office) Report on California’s Fiscal Outlook for the 2010-2011 Budget http://www.lao.ca.gov/laoapp/PubDetails.aspx?id=2143 The LAO is California’s Nonpartisan Fiscal and Policy Advisor
• Powerpoint presentation on impacting legislators (scroll down to “Impacting Legislators” under “Archived Brown Bag Lunch Trainings” http://familyvoicesofca.org/?q=node/7
• Tips for legislative advocacy http://www.connectforkids.org/node/2694

Greetings from the Nurse

2009-11-07T12:32:00.000-08:00

This is my 20th year in the SFUSD and my third year at the Wellness Nurse at GWHS. A little about my background: my first three years were spent working at elementary schools, i.e. Revere and GW Carver. After that, I worked in middle schools including Burbank, Gloria R. Davis, Giannini, Hoover and Marina. Currently, I'm at GWHS Tuesdays through Fridays. In addition to working at GWHS, I'm the "coach" to new SFUSD nurses. Before working at the SFUSD, I worked in public and home health, taught nursing at Laney College, and worked in Thailand providing services to Cambodian refugees. I have two children: they're now 16 and 20 years old.

Among my goals...
...are helping your teens learn about their bodies, referring them to appropriate health services, and teaching them about self-care skills. It's been a wonderful opportunity, helping your children, who are emerging young adults, with their healthcare and health education needs.

Contact Info
I'm at the Wellness Center, Room 121, Tuesdays-Fridays. You can reach me by phone at 750-8521 x 3407, or by email at BoyerL@sfusd.edu.

Websites for parents/caregivers
This is a very challenging time for parents/caregivers, learning to provide your teens with some measure of independence but knowing that they still need your support and guidance. Here are some useful websites for parents:

Seasonal and Swine (H1N1) Flu Facts: http://www.sfcdcp.org/flufactsmain.html
Alcohol (from excellent publication): http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/MakeADiff_HTML/makediff.htm#TakingAction
General Info: http://www.parentingteensonline.com/

Parenting Question of the Month?
If there's sufficient interest, I'll try out a "question/s of the month" column and respond to an emailed question from a parent, in the PTSA e-newsletter. (Sorry, no personal responses due to time constraints.) Of course, all names will be withheld to provide confidentiality.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Ms. Boyer-Chu, Wellness Center Nurse

Real-Life High School Musical

2009-11-04T14:04:00.000-08:00

Real-Life High School Musical
By Lisa Petrie

The high school selection process has begun for next fall with a flurry of open houses, fairs, school visits, and application forms. When the dust settles, some 5,260 eighth-graders in San Francisco will choose a public school in the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) for their high school experience. Kids who are talented and serious about getting the best musical education they can, do have a few excellent options. But most other high schools are struggling to find scarce resources for arts education and to meet the changing interests and needs of their students.The good news is that amid budget woes, there is support for arts education in the city from taxpayers and administrators. Music programs that have languished from lack of funding resulting from Proposition 13 (1978) recently got a boost through the voter-approved Prop H, or “Public Education Enrichment Fund” — an 11-year, multimillion-dollar earmark for the arts beginning in 2005-2006.

The promise of extra funds allowed the district to look to the future, crafting an ambitious Arts Education Master Plan. Says Susan Stauter, artistic director for high schools in SFUSD’s Visual and Performing Arts Office and one of the plan’s creators, “The master plan provides infrastructure and scaffolding for the arts programs districtwide and ensures them of access and equity for every student. It’s a powerful tool because it was two-and-a-half years in the making and the stakeholders came from all over San Francisco — artists, parents, teachers, community members — all saying what they believe is important for arts education, and it was [school] board approved.” But if the goal of the plan is equity beyond the traditionally strong programs of the School of the Arts and Lowell High School, then the impact of the plan three years on is not immediately obvious.

Factors for Success

Steve HendeeSteve Hendee, band director at School of the Arts (SOTA) and president-elect of the California Music Educators Association (CMEA) Bay Section, hopes Prop H money can help address the discrepancy between middle school programs in the city. “Everything hinges on a complete music education, K-12. You can’t have a successful high school program without a consecutive experience beforehand,” he says. SOTA, a shining star, yet an anomaly as the district’s only dedicated performing arts school, is an excellent choice for students who are serious about the arts. According to Hendee, the rigorous audition process brings only the most talented and motivated students to the school.
Junior percussionist Chris Cabrera began playing percussion in the third grade at Presidio Middle School, and was encouraged by his teacher, Dianna Gomez, to audition for SOTA. “After high school I plan to major in instrumental performance and then get my master’s,” says Chris. “My ideal goal in my musical career is to join a distinguished symphony orchestra and/or teach percussion at a university.”

In addition to attracting dedicated students such as Chris, Hendee cites the scheduling at SOTA as another of the program’s major advantages. “One of the biggest challenges high school music programs face is the sheer number of requirements to fulfill, both for graduation and for college entrance,” he says. At SOTA the kids dedicate their mornings to academics and have the entire afternoon for such music classes as ensemble, chamber music, music theory, music history, piano, and ear training.

Lowell High School’s orchestra director, Michele Winter, agrees that a modular, flexible schedule is key to keeping their program at a high level. “Because we have a longer day with dedicated staffing to cover it, we’re able to give the kids a lot of individual attention,” she states.

And Winter has her share of dedicated students, as well. Senior oboist Jessica Noss also came to Lowell from Presidio Middle School. “I like music but didn’t want it to be the center of my high school experience. I wanted to be able to change my mind,” says Jessica. She takes Advanced Placement Music Theory, enjoys playing in the pit orchestra for the spring musicals, and plans to continue making music in college, though not as a music major.

Lowell has stringent academic requirements for entrance, and is an alternative school in the SFUSD. The orchestra room is large and spotless, rimmed by four soundproof practice rooms. Eight double basses gleam in their rack — equipment that has been paid for by the PTA, an involved parent group that raises thousands of dollars each year in support of the music program.

The Have-Nots

Washington High students
Photo by Jill HendricksOther high schools are not so lucky. Jill Hendricks directs four bands and one orchestra, plus the new marching band, at Washington High School. She originally received $4,000 from Prop H through the district. But after having budgeted that money to buy sheet music and other necessities, she learned that half of it was being rescinded. Hendricks now sells sandwiches she has brought from home, drinks, and noodles out of her filing cabinet, to raise money for her program.
Her 10-hour days include drilling her fledgling marching band out on the field (the only marching band in the entire SFUSD), helping the kids try on donated uniforms, and tuning the drums for the following day’s rehearsals. Her husband spends countless, unpaid hours running instruments to the repair shop and back, among other errands. Still, by such “sweat equity,” Hendricks has managed to build a fine program, despite the lack of funding. It’s not difficult to see why she’s called “the best band director, ever” by her drum major, Emily Hernandez. The confident sophomore with cropped, dyed red hair is a bass clarinetist from Hoover Middle School. She was randomly assigned to Washington High but considers it a “blessing” because of her dedicated teacher and peers. “Band is my creative outlet. We learn advanced music and are like a big, happy family,” says Emily, who plans to minor in music and major in psychology in college.

Changing Landscapes
While other high schools in the district certainly have something to offer in the traditional disciplines of band, orchestra, and choir, not many have programs offering four years of progressive instruction across each. Some music classes are offered at Lincoln High School, and Balboa High School boasts a "performing arts track" in band and chorus (including a music production class developed by the Bay Area Video Coalition). Only four middle schools currently have robust programs: Aptos, A.P. Giannini, Hoover, and Presidio. According to Steve Hendee, “Right now we are at a turning point in urban education, especially in San Francisco, and there are a lot of questions. Are we serving all of the kids in a correct manner?”

Choral students in a classroom at Gilroy HighThe district has seen waning interest from students in orchestral and band instruments, compounded by ebbing funding tides, in which music teachers and supplies are the first to go. Consequently, there is a move away from the large ensemble model, toward smaller, single-instrument classes such as guitar or music production. In some cases, students get valuable education from ensembles such as mariachi groups, Latin percussion ensembles, and rock bands. These classes meet the one-year performing arts requirement in SFUSD’s curriculum, as well as the entrance requirements for UC and State University systems.

No one expects any school to provide a complete music experience for serious musicians. Even at SOTA, students are encouraged to take private lessons and play in outside ensembles. Chris Cabrera, for example, plays percussion in the San Francisco Youth Symphony. Kieren Hughes, from Claire Lilienthal (a public K-8 school), had six years of vocal training in the San Francisco Girls Chorus before being placed in Lowell’s Intermediate Choir as a freshman. “I see music as my hobby, but I’m looking forward to advancing to Chamber Choir eventually,” she says. Kieren attends the San Francisco Conservatory of Music’s Prep school on Saturdays, studying piano and musicianship.

The Master Plan for the Arts encourages a number of collaborations between local arts groups and schools, and teachers leverage these connections whenever possible, such as the Del Sol Quartet's and composer Katrina Wreede's recent residency at Washington High School. As an urban school district, SFUSD faces multiple challenges. Yet, at the same time, the city’s demographics nourish the rich, multicultural soil from which so many creative groups have sprung, each with a unique brand of music. The four walls of school only provide one type of inspiration — and savvy students and parents will look around them and explore San Francisco’s diverse, thriving arts scene.

Get all of your questions answered at the SFUSD Enrollment Fair on Saturday, Nov. 7 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., in the East Hall of the Concourse Exhibition Center.

Public School Enrollment Fair

2009-11-02T13:57:00.000-08:00

Each fall, SFUSD creates a one-stop-shopping event for families who are looking to enroll their child. The Public School Enrollment Fair is where parents, caring adults, and students can meet principals to learn what each school can offer their child. Families can also attend workshops including: SFUSD’s enrollment system, how to enroll students in Special Education, the transition to Kindergarten, and language program options. This annual gathering is a chance for families to explore all their options for public schools. Last year approximately 10,000 families attended.

read more

JOBS NOW! program

2009-11-01T13:54:00.000-08:00

The San Francisco Human Services Agency (SF-HSA) is using newly available federal stimulus funds to expand subsidized employment opportunities, with a goal of placing 1,000 participants in jobs between May 2009 and September 2010. This new program is called JOBS NOW!

Consistent with the goals of the federal stimulus package, the primary objectives of the JOBS NOW! program are to provide an immediate source of income for low-income families and to stimulate local economic recovery. JOBS NOW! builds upon several successful transitional jobs programs already in place at SF-HSA, which were designed to help unemployed individuals address barriers to employment, develop soft skills, gain work experience and progress toward self-sufficiency. JOBS NOW! participants will exit the program with stable employment history, leaving them better positioned to obtain an unsubsidized job when the stimulus period ends. The JOBS NOW! program benefits local employers by providing referrals of qualified workers and by subsidizing 100% of their wages until September 30, 2010. It's a win-win!

Information for Job Seekers
Welcome to the JOBS NOW! program! This program puts unemployed and underemployed parents into good jobs, and pays the employers the cost of their wages through September 30, 2010.

If you want a job that pays at least $9.79 per hour (and likely more), you think you are eligible, and you are ready to get to work, email us or call 1-877-JOB1NOW today!

Who is eligible to be a JOBS NOW! employee?

Unemployed and underemployed San Francisco parents are eligible for the program. If you are a CalWORKs participant, you are eligible for the program. If you are working or were recently working, and your income in the past month was less than 200% of the federal poverty level, you are eligible. The table below shows the maximum income you can earn in a month or year and be eligible for the program.

(Family Size) Maximum Gross Income in the Past Month
(1) $1,805
(2) $2,428
(3) $3,052
(4) $3,675
(5) $4,298
(6) $4,922
(7) $5,545
(8) $6,168

In addition to the income requirements, you must meet a few other criteria. To enroll, you must:

* Be a resident of San Francisco
* Show proof of right to work
* Be a parent of at least one child under age 18 (even if you do not live with that child).

Enrollment into the program is fast and easy. If you are a CalWORKs clients, call your employment specialist. If not, call the JOBS NOW! hotline (1-877-JOB1NOW) or email us.

What kinds of jobs are available?
There are a wide range of job types available to participants through the JOBS NOW! program. Eligible participants will be assessed for their job experience, job readiness, and will then be assigned to one of three types of job opportunities:

* Transitional employment in the non-profit sector, which will be accompanied by job readiness classes.
* Employment with a government agency for job seekers with some job experience.
* Employment with private and non-profit employers for job seekers with more job experience.

For more information about jobs, including some frequently asked questions, click here

Contact Information
Interested employers or job seekers should call 1-877-JOB1NOW (1-877-562-1669) or email us at JobsNow@sfgov.org for more information.

San Francisco H1N1 Swine Flu Vaccination Events start October 29

2009-10-28T22:17:00.001-07:00

On October 29, 30, and 31 the H1N1 vaccine will be available free of charge at 9 H1N1 Swine Flu Vaccine Clinics throughout San Francisco!

Find dates, times, and locations for the City's clinics: www.sfcdcp.org/FluVaccinesSites.html

Download and print a flyer about vaccination clinic dates, times, and locations: H1N1 Clinic Sites

Because of the high demand for H1N1 Swine Flu vaccine and the importance of getting it to those who need it most, Dr. Mitch Katz, Director of Public Health, has extended those eligible for the vaccine to include:

* Pregnant women
* All people ages 6 months to 24 years of age
* People who live with or provide care for infants less than 6 months of age
* Health care and emergency responders with direct patient contact
* Adults ages 25 to 64 with medical conditions that put them at risk for complications from influenza (heart, lung, kidney disease, asthma, diabetes, weakened immune system)

Advice for High-risk Patients

Before going to one of the Swine Flu Vaccine Clinics, anyone with a primary care physician should call his/her own doctor to determine the availability of the H1N1 swine flu vaccine.
General Advice

At this time, the Department of Public Health is NOT recommending wearing masks, avoiding public gatherings, avoiding public transit, closing schools, or other social distancing measures. If the situation changes, DPH is prepared and does have guidelines for the use of these interventions. However, it is always important to practice Healthy Habits. Visit SFCDCP.ORG/swineflu for the latest information on H1N1 Flu and Healthy Habits information from DPH. Scroll down to the bottom of the Healthy Habits page to find a brochure, Infect me Not.

Street Cleanliness and Graffiti

2009-10-23T08:30:00.000-07:00

Town Hall Meeting on
Street Cleanliness and Graffiti
OCTOBER 26, 5:30 PM
Richmond Recreation Center
251 18th Avenue

Please join Supervisor Eric Mar, Representatives from the San Francisco Police Department, Department of Public Works, The Graffiti Advisory Board, and
community groups in a discussion about what city departments and community members are doing to keep our streets clean. Learn simple ways how you can pitch in to help keep our neighborhoods clean!

Preventing or Lessening the Severity of Swine Flu

2009-10-23T06:53:00.000-07:00

The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it's almost impossible to avoid coming into contact with H1N1 in spite of all precautions. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is.

While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps, not fully highlighted in most official communications, can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tamiflu):

1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications).

2. "Hands-off-the-face" approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face (unless you want to eat or bathe).

3. Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust salt). H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method.

4. Similar to 3 above, *clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water. Not everybody may be good at Jala Neti or Sutra Neti (very good Yoga asanas to clean nasal cavities), but blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with Q-tips dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.

5. Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C (citrus fruits, for example). If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption.

6. Drink as much of warm liquids (tea, coffee, etc.) as you can. Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm.

PTA Reflections Art Program 2009-2010

2009-10-04T07:24:00.000-07:00

PTA Reflections Art Program 2009-2010

“Beauty is...”

Students start creating your Reflections Art Entries

Just remember to follow these guidelines and rules:
Each entry must be original work of one student only
Enter in as many art categories as you would like
Both photography and Visual Arts entries must be mounted or matted
No copyrighted material can be used
Do not mount or mat your Literature entries

Literature:
Literature entries may be works of fiction or nonfiction, prose, poetry, and drama
Entries must not exceed 2,000 words
Can be handwritten or typed (one sided only)
Must be on 8 1/2 x 11 paper
Do not mount or mat, place in a manila folder

Music:
A musical composition entry may be voice, instruments, or a combination of voice and instruments
All compositions shall not exceed 5 minutes
Record on a CD only
Middle/Junior and Seniors: notation, including traditional tablature or electronic is required
Score size shall not exceed 11x 14, and band or orchestra may be 11x 16

Photography:
A photography entry must be an original black-and-white or color image, or group of images, produced by a photographic process
The student must be the one to take the photograph
Must be mounted or matted on cardboard mat, poster board, or other sturdy material
Must not exceed 11x14 including the mounting or matting

Visual Arts:
A visual arts entry must be an original print, drawing, painting, collage, photographic collage, metal etching or punch work, fiber
work, or computer generated
Must be mounted or matted and not to exceed 3/8 inch in thickness
Must not exceed 24x 30 including the mounting or matting
No 3-Demensional art work
Laminating is highly discouraged

Dance:
A Dance choreography entry must be an original choreographed dance composition
Dance must not exceed 5 minutes
Must be recorded on a CD only
There may be up to three dancers, only the choreographer may enter the entry
Costumes are not necessary, however, if used choreographer must create costumes

Film Production:
A film entry must be an original work of fiction, non-fiction; with or without sound
Can be an animation, narrative, documentary, and or experimental
Student must be the director, screenwriter, camera person. Storyboarding and editing must be done by one student
Must not exceed 5 minutes
Must be recorded on CD only

For more information about the Reflections Art Program, visit www.capta.org

Happy Creating!

High School Graduating Seniors

2009-09-11T08:53:00.000-07:00

The California State PTA will offer Graduating High School Senior Scholarships in the amount of $500.00 each to acknowledge the achievements of high school seniors for volunteer service in the school and community.

AVAILABILITY

Scholarship funds are available to high school seniors graduating between January 1 and June 30 of the current academic year from high schools in California with a PTA/PTSA unit in good standing. Scholarship is to be used during fall semester/quarter following high school graduation at an accredited* college or university, community college or trade or technical school.

APPLICATION AND DEADLINE

An application (including two reference forms) may be obtained from the California State PTA office or on the website at www.capta.org. References are to be completed by a community volunteer leader with whom student applicant has served and a member of the high school faculty. Completed reference forms and letters should be given to the applicant in a sealed envelope to be included with application packet. Reference form and letter must be written specifically for this scholarship application. Copies of recommendation letters for college admission are NOT acceptable. Do not submit more than the requested two reference forms and letters. Reference forms and letters in sealed envelopes, a legible copy of applicantâ€™s current PTA/PTSA membership card on an 8-1/2 x 11 sheet of paper and completed application are to be mailed together in ONE envelope to the California State PTA. Application envelope must be received in the California State PTA office by close of business February 1. When February 1 falls on a weekend, application is due in the State PTA office by close of business on the following Monday. Postmarks will not be accepted. Application will not be considered if received after deadline date or if any of the required materials are missing. Application and reference forms with letters must be mailed; facsimiles will not be accepted.

QUALIFICATIONS

This scholarship recognizes volunteer service in the school and community and does not have a grade point average restriction or requirement. Applicant must be a California resident, graduating from a high school in California with a PTA/PTSA unit in good standing, and must be a member of his/her high school PTA/PTSA. A copy of applicantâ€™s current PTA/PTSA membership card must be submitted with application.

SELECTION

Recipients are selected by representatives of the California State PTA Scholarship and Grant Committee. All applicants will be notified of their standing by letter in May. A check for the scholarship will be sent directly to the recipient.

*Accreditation acceptable from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc., Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, New England Association of Schools and Colleges, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

1st General Meeting and Training

2009-09-05T13:09:00.000-07:00

2009‐2010

1st General Meeting and Training

Saturday, September 12th 2009
Location: 555 Franklin
parking available at McAllister entrance

8:30 am Check in, continental breakfast provided

General Meeting begins 9:00am

Officer Training 10:00am – 11:00am

Workshop 11:30am – 12:30pm

Lunch will be provided by Big Tent

General Meeting Action items:
Bylaws proposal changes, Budget approval
and general announcements

Tips and Advice about:
• President, Secretary and Treasurer Training
• Communication: CAPTA Toolkit Workshop

BigTent is proud to be a strategic
partner of Second District CA PTA
• BigTent (www.bigtent.com) is where trusted groups
connect online. We provide free online tools that
make it easy to plan events, send communications,
share volunteer responsibilities, and more!

SFUSD School and Family Partnership Planning Summit

2009-09-05T11:11:00.000-07:00

Help shape a new plan to engage families in San Francisco's public schools

Saturday September 26th

Please join us

Who should participate

Parents and Guardians
School Staff Parent and Family Organizations

Spanish and Cantonese interpretation available

FOR MORE INFORMATION or to register for FREE Child Care 3 years call 249 9293

MUNI and Public Transportation Accessible
Bus Lines: 14 26 48 49
Bart Station 24th St
Limited parking available on playground off Bartlett

Event Details
----------------------
What: SFUSD School and Family Partnership Planning Summit
Who: Second District of CAPTA
When: Sat Sep 26, 2009, 8:30 am - 12:30 pm PDT
Where: Horace Mann Middle School
23rd St and Valencia

STUDENT ELIGIBILITY FOR ASSISTANCE IN PREPARING FOR THE CALIFORNIA HIGH SCHOOL EXIT EXAM AFTER GRADE 12

2009-09-04T07:51:00.000-07:00

Pursuant to California Education Code section 37254, you are hereby notified that:

1. Pupils, including English learners, who have not passed one or both parts of the
California High School Exit Examination (CAHSEE) by the end of grade 12 are
entitled to receive intensive instruction and services for up to two consecutive
academic years after completion of grade 12 or until they pass both parts of the
CAHSEE, whichever comes first;

2. English learners, who have not passed one or both parts of the CAHSEE by the
end of grade 12, are entitled to receive services to improve English proficiency as
needed to pass those parts of the CAHSEE not yet passed for up to two
consecutive academic years after completion of grade 12 or until they pass both
parts of the CAHSEE, whichever comes first; and

3. Pupils, who have not passed one or both parts of the CAHSEE by the end of grade
12, have the right to file a complaint regarding intensive instruction and services
under the Uniform Complaint Procedures if he or she was not provided the
opportunity to receive intensive instruction and services for up to two consecutive
academic years after completion of grade 12 or until they pass both parts of the
CAHSEE, whichever comes first.

If you have any questions about eligibility for services, wish to obtain services, or wish to file a complaint regarding services, please contact Baje Thiara, CAHSEE Supervisor at 555 Franklin Street, San Francisco, Ca, 94102, (415) 241-6121.

FAQ for PROPOSED SFUSD CALENDAR ADJUSTMENTS

2009-09-04T07:45:00.000-07:00

FAQ for PROPOSED SFUSD CALENDAR ADJUSTMENTS
for the 2010-2011 SCHOOL YEAR

1) Why is SFUSD considering a new school year calendar for 2010-2011?
The primary purpose of these proposed changes is to better serve the students, staff and families of our District. SFUSD has identified a number of benefits to resetting the calendar including:

A more cohesive semester to maximize instructional time The current structure cuts off instruction for two weeks just as students are approaching the end of the semester. Students then need additional review when they return to school just to
get back up to where they were when they left for winter break. Many of our middle and high school teachers know how disruptive it can be to review areas of the curriculum lost over the winter break.

The proposed early start calendar will also allow more instructional time to occur prior to the standardized and advanced placement tests our students take in late April and early May.

Additional time to make adjustments to the Master Calendar at the middle and high
school level

Ending the fall semester before the winter break will allow the flexibility for new classes to be put into the master schedule in response to student demand.

Currently, students are scheduled in a year-long block for many core courses such as English and Math. The existing one-day semester break does not allow sufficient time for schools to adjust student schedules in case of failing fall semester grades. Under the new calendar, students who failed the first semester will be able to retake the first segment of the class rather than continue in the second segment of the class during the spring semester.

With final exams and papers completed prior to the winter break, our secondary students can truly rest without the pressure of finishing assignments or studying for tests and return refreshed for the new semester.

Aligning our calendar with City College of San Francisco

The proposed calendar will allow many of our high school students access to the programs at City College that allow them concurrent enrollment and college credit.

2) What is the specific proposal that is being considered?
A proposed draft 2010-2011 calendar has been created by a committee that includes district bargaining units’ representatives, teachers, parent representatives and administrators. You can view it on the website on the parent page and the employee page at www.sfusd.edu

The proposed calendar will result in the school year beginning one week earlier than the traditional start date for SFUSD and end on the Friday prior to the Memorial Day weekend.

3) Will this shorten the summer break?
Yes, the summer of 2010 would be one week shorter.

4) How will this affect summer programs?
The district is working with the city’s Recreation and Parks Department and community based organization that operate summer programs for our students to make this transition as smooth as possible, including beginning summer programs the week following the last day of school.

5) What is the process that will be used to decide on this change?
The 2010-2011 early start district instructional calendar will be discussed by the Board of Education at its regular meeting, May 26 at 6:00 p.m. The Board is likely to vote on the proposal at its subsequent meeting on June 9 to give school communities a full year to prepare for the possible change. The District will convene a transition team during the next school year to identify issues and solutions appropriate for the early start calendar implementation in August 2010.

6) How can I express my feedback about the proposed changes?
The Board of Education will take public comment on calendar issues at its upcoming meetings on May 26 and June 9. Also, anyone can send comments to the District by emailing Labor Relations at asklaborrelations@sfusd.edu. These comments will be summarized in the staff presentation to the Board of Education.

Ad Hoc Committee on Student Assignment

2009-08-27T07:52:00.001-07:00

SFUSD is entering Stage 4 in its development of a new student assignment system. The process for approving a new student assignment system will commence when the Ad Hoc Committee on Student Assignment reconvenes on September 14, 2009. The Ad Hoc Committee will meet monthly to provide a regular and public way for the Board to conduct public policy discussions with staff, provide feedback on progress, and guidance on next steps.

In addition to the Board meetings, there will be a series of multilingual community conversations throughout the city once the Board has agreed on potential options and before they vote on a new student assignment system. The community conversations will be designed to deepen understanding of the options being considered and the multiple factors taken into account, and provide opportunities for meaningful collaboration with diverse community and district stakeholders to ensure their aspirations and concerns are consistently heard and taken into consideration. The schedule of community conversations will be established once the Board has agreed on potential options for consideration.

Upcoming Board Meetings
Ad Hoc Committee on Student Assignment
Irving G. Breyer Board Room
555 Franklin Street, San Francisco, 94102

All meetings will be televised and available via the web.

Monday, September 14, 2009 (6pm)Monday, October 19, 2009 (6pm)Monday, November 16, 2009 (6pm)Monday, December 7, 2009 (6pm)Monday, January 18, 2010 (6pm)Monday, February 15, 2010 (6pm)Monday, March 15, 2010 (6pm)
For more information, visit: http://portal.sfusd.edu/template/default.cfm?page=policy.placement.assignment

School Assignment Policy Meeting

2009-08-26T22:34:00.000-07:00

When: Mon Sep 14, 2009, 6–8 pm
Where: 555 Franklin St.
San Francisco
Group: [Second District of CAPTA] Second District of CAPTA

Description:
For anyone who is interested in following or influencing the direction of the Board's work on revising the assignment policy, there will be a very important meeting on September 14 in the Board Room at 555 Franklin (6 p.m.; it will also be televised and streamed online). At that meeting, Orla and her team will be presenting options to the Board bas... more »

For anyone who is interested in following or influencing the direction of the Board's work on revising the assignment policy, there will be a very important meeting on September 14 in the Board Room at 555 Franklin (6 p.m.; it will also be televised and streamed online). At that meeting, Orla and her team will be presenting options to the Board based on all the feedback they have heard from Board members and community members thus far.

2009-2010 1st General Meeting and Training

2009-08-26T22:32:00.000-07:00

When: Sat Sep 12, 2009, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
Where: SFUSD Board Room
555 Franklin St parking available at McAllister entrance
Group: [Second District of CAPTA] Second District of CAPTA

Description:
8:30 am Check in, continental breakfast provided
General Meeting begins 9:00am
Officer Training 10:00am — 11:00am
Workshop 11:30am — 12:30pm
Lunch will be provided by Big Tent

General Meeting Action items:
Bylaws proposal changes
Budget approval
and general announcements

Tips and Advice about:
•President, Secretary and Treasurer Training
•Communication: CAPTA Toolkit Workshop
BigTent is proud to be a strategic partner of Second District CA PTA
• BigTent (www.bigtent.com) is where trusted groups connect online. We provide free online tools that make it easy to plan events, send communications, share volunteer responsibilities, and more!

Superintendent Reception and 'Back to School Kick Off Event' Reception

2009-08-26T22:21:00.000-07:00

When: Wed Sep 2, 2009, 6–8 pm
Where: 555 Franklin St.
San Francisco
Group: [Second District of CAPTA] Second District of CAPTA
Contact: Shellie Wiener
415-241-6048
s_wiener@yahoo.com
Date: September 2nd 2009
Time: 6:00 - 8:00
Location: SFUSD Board Room 555 Franklin St

Kidsmomo

2009-08-15T09:30:00.001-07:00

Kidsmomo is a forum for young readers. You can check it out at http://www.kidsmomo.com. The mission is to keep kids engaged in reading for pleasure by introducing them to quality books and series, highlighting the sheer variety of reading choices available, and presenting books and reading in a non-academic mode. We've got:

Weekly themes
Weekly podcasts with book recommendations
Kid-submitted book reviews
A joint blog
For more about Kidsmomo, visit: http://www.kidsmomo.com/mission-and-founders/

PLEASE share the site with any kids roughly ages 8-13 who might like to participate in our beta. And PLEASE forward this invitation on to anyone else you think would be interested. Our beta is completely open to the public, and there is no registration required. You can use the "Contact Us" form on the site to send us any feedback about Kidsmomo. We'll read everything that's submitted!

Kidsmomo.com is live now and kids can begin submitting book reviews at any time.

Free Vaccination

2009-07-20T20:27:00.000-07:00

Flu season is just a few months away. If your child is an incoming freshman (9th grader) at GWHS, s/he might be eligible for FREE flu vaccination. The San Francisco Health Department is providing GWHS with enough vaccine for 200 students. Healthy students can receive the nasal spray. Students with long-term conditions such as diabetes, moderate to severe asthma, heart conditions, or immune system conditions can get the injection. Information about the vaccine and a consent form will be made available on Friday, August 14, when 9th graders can pick up their schedules. This program is completely optional. If there are more than 200 consent forms returned by the deadline (date to be set in September), priority will be given to students who have returned a completed application, and are eligible for, free/reduced lunch.

This CDC website provides you with information about flu and the flu vaccine--the nasal spray and the injectable type--in print, in other languages, and in AUDIO format:

http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/#flu

If you have any questions, you can write to our Wellness Center Nurse, Ms. Boyer-Chu, at BoyerL@sfusd.edu. She'll respond to you when she returns from summer break on August 19.

SFUSD Appoints New Leader for Instruction, Innovation and Social Justice

2009-07-03T22:13:00.000-07:00

June 24, 2009 (San Francisco) SFUSD Superintendent Carlos Garcia and the Board of Education announce that Richard Carranza will serve as the new Deputy Superintendent for Instruction, Innovation and Social Justice.

A veteran in the education field, Carranza is currently the regional superintendent of the Northwest Region of the Clark County School District overseeing 60 schools and 58,000 students. Under his leadership, the regional district has made significant strides towards improving student achievement. These accomplishments include an increase in the number of middle schools and high schools making Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) and double digit reductions in the percentage of special education and Limited English Proficient (LEP) students performing below proficiency levels in mathematics and language arts.

"Having entered the public school system speaking only Spanish, I have experienced, first-hand, the transformational power of access and equity in providing a rich and rewarding education to all students - regardless of race, ethnicity, class and language," says Carranza. "I view this as a personal moral imperative and have committed myself to making the educational experiences of the students for whom I have responsibility, the path to full participation and access to the 'American Dream.'"

Superintendent Carlos Garcia said that there were 75 applicants for the deputy position, and the district conducted a national search after the former deputy, Tony Smith, accepted a position as superintendent of Oakland Unified in early June.

"Mr. Carranza stood out as being able to take our theory of action and make it real. He has site experience that uniquely positions him to know how to get things done at the school level," says Garcia.

Board President Kim-Shree Maufas echoes this sentiment. "It is apparent that he is genuinely interested in making our goals happen in San Francisco Unified. I look forward to introducing him to the community."

In addition to his work as a regional superintendent for one of the largest districts in the nation, Carranza has served as a school administrator and teacher of social studies, language arts and music. He is also an accomplished musician, specializing in Mariachi music, and he was once voted one of the "Twenty Most Influential Tucsonans in Music" by the Tucson Citizen.
Richard Carranza has two children, 8 and 12 years old.

He is set to begin no later than August 1, 2009. As the day-to-day instructional leader for the district, the Deputy Superintendent for Instruction, Innovation and Social Justice is responsible for developing and implementing the specific systems and structures that will close the achievement gap and raise academic achievement for all students as outlined in the SFUSD strategic plan, Beyond the Talk.

2009-2011 SFPTA Executive Board

2009-07-03T22:08:00.000-07:00

It is with great pleasure that we introduce the following individuals who will lead the San Francisco PTA, Second District of the California State PTA for the 2009-2011 term:

President - Anna Kelleher
Recording Secretary - Joyce Watson
Treasurer - Brian Hutchinson
VP - Leadership - Stephanie LeBeau
VP - Communications - Carl Barnes
VP - Outreach & Extension - Barbara Lee
VP - Education - Toni Hines
VP - Parent Involvement - Jackie Wise
VP - Community Concerns - Jenn Pearson
Legislative Chair - Michelle Parker
Membership Chair - David Freeman
Events Chair - Shellie Wiener
Convention Chair - Carlos Ramirez, Jr.
Auditor - Alan Geist

2009 - 2010 GWHS PTSA Roster

2009-07-03T21:52:00.000-07:00

It is with great pleasure that we introduce the following individuals who will lead the GWHS PTSA for the 2009-2011 term:

President - Sandra Dy Juanco
Executive Vice President - Alice Badi
VP Membership/Fundraising - Harmony Xu and Helen Bishop
Vice President Hospitality - Sean Dy Juanco and Adam Badi
Vice President Programming - Lynn Pearson
Treasurer - Cindy Fong
Secretary - Stephanie Dy Juanco and Nancy Li
Auditor - Genevieve Mora
Parliamentarian - Sherrie Rosenberg
Fundraising Committee Chair - Helen Bishop
Student Involvement Committee Chair - Nancy Chen
Grants Committee Chair - Inessa Iskenderova and Darice Lowe
Reflections Art Program Chair - Susan Burke
Historian - Daniel Fong
Newsletter - Jonathan Wong, Sandy Lee and Rhoda Gin
Principal - Ericka Lovrin