Author Archives: Lauren Bartholomew

Levy Cliff – urgent!

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Please read and CALL LEGISLATORS listed at the bottom of this email before 10AM tomorrow (Friday) morning!! We NEED the Senate to vote YES on House Bill 1059 to delay the levy cliff!

Issaquah schools stand to lose $7 million in funding next year if this bill does not pass!

Dear WPD Advocate,

We have an urgent opportunity to avoid teacher layoffs and program cuts that would undermine our children’s education — and we need you to make calls right now.

The State Senate will likely be voting on Friday morning at 10AM on an important procedural motion that, if adopted, would allow a vote on the bill to delay the levy cliff soon afterward. We need to flood Senate offices with calls urging them to bring this bill, HB 1059, to the floor and then to vote yes on it.

Need to find your Senator or their phone number? Click here and urge your Senator to immediately pass the bill to delay the levy cliff!

If you need a script: “Hello, I am your constituent from [name your city or town]. I need you to vote to bring HB 1059 to the floor and vote for the bill. We must delay the levy cliff so that teachers don’t get fired and students don’t lose important classes and programs they need to succeed. I know you have the power to save our schools from financial peril and I need you to lead on this.”

The bill to delay the levy cliff is an important part of fully funding our public schools. If this bill doesn’t pass, districts across the state will have to fire teachers and slash important programs for students. This is because school districts would lose part of their funds on January 1, 2018 — but the legislature does not have to deliver full funding for schools under the McCleary decision until September 1, 2018.

The levy cliff represents a big step backward in the state’s compliance with the constitution and the courts. Delaying the levy cliff for one more year allows our teachers to teach and our students to learn while the legislature finally passes the new revenue needed to fully fund public schools, as well as reducing districts’ reliance on levies to pay for basic education.

Call your Senator right now and urge them to immediately pass the bill to delay the levy cliff! Click here if you need to find your Senator or their phone number.

Below are some of the Senators who most urgently need to hear from the public. If even just one of them votes yes, the bill can pass and our schools will be saved from the levy cliff. If you or anyone you know lives in any of these legislative districts/areas, please ask them to call their Senator right now!

Hans Zeiger
25th LD: includes Puyallup, Fife
360 786-7648
hans.zeiger@leg.wa.gov

John Braun
20th LD: includes Chehalis, Centralia, Castle Rock
360 786-7638
john.braun@leg.wa.gov

Joe Fain
47th LD: includes Auburn, Kent, Renton, Covington, Federal Way
360 786-7692
joe.fain@leg.wa.gov

Ann Rivers
18th LD: includes Vancouver, Ridgefield, Camas, Battle Ground, Washougal, La Center, Hockinson
360 786-7634
ann.rivers@leg.wa.gov

Mark Miloscia
30th LD: includes Algona, Auburn, Des Moines, Federal Way, Milton, Pacific
360 786-7658
mark.miloscia@leg.wa.gov

Jan Angel
26th LD: includes Bremerton, Port Orchard, Gig Harbor, Lakebay, Purdy
360 786-7650
jan.angel@leg.wa.gov

Dino Rossi
45th LD: includes Redmond, Kirkland, Sammamish, Woodinville, Duvall
360 786-7672
dino.rossi@leg.wa.gov

Maureen Walsh
16th LD: includes Walla Walla, Prosser, Horse Heaven
360 786-7630
maureen.walsh@leg.wa.gov

Mark Schoesler
9th LD: includes Ritzville, Pullman, Colfax, St. John, Asotin
360 786-7620
mark.schoesler@leg.wa.gov

Phil Fortunato
31st LD: includes Enumclaw, Buckley, Bonney Lake, Auburn, Sumner, Edgewood, South Prairie, Wilkeson and Carbonado
360 786-7660
phil.fortunato@leg.wa.gov

Brad Hawkins
12th LD: includes Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Twisp, Winthrop, Leavenworth
360 786-7622
brad.hawkins@leg.wa.gov

Randi Becker
2nd LD: includes Eatonville, Yelm, Orting, Graham, Roy, Rainier
360 786-7602 305
randi.becker@leg.wa.gov

Lynda Wilson
17th LD: includes Brush Prairie, Orchards, Cascade Park East (Clark County)
360 786-7632
lynda.wilson@leg.wa.gov

Curtis King
14th LD: includes Stevenson, White Salmon, Naches, Goldendale, Tieton, Roosevelt
360 786-7626
curtis.king@leg.wa.gov

Barbara Bailey
10th LD: includes Stanwood, Camamo Island, Whidbey Island, Oak Harbor, La Connor
360 786-7618
barbara.bailey@leg.wa.gov

Thank you for taking a minute to call and contacting your friend, colleague, or relative out in these critical districts.

Your fellow advocate,
Tali

Tali Rausch
Board President
Washington’s Paramount Duty

Community Values Survey – PLEASE DISTRIBUTE!

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We need your help getting this info out to our ISD community!


Please share this survey link & information below with your school community…through your PTSA websites, Enews, School Enews, Facebook page…any way you can to get the word out. It is really important that we have as much input as possible to share with the Issaquah School District Administration.

This survey closes January 31st.

Thank you all so much for your help getting this information out, so that as many people as possible have the opportunity to contribute!
-Becky Gordon, PTSA Council President

 

COPY & PASTE for Communications:

Please take a moment to share your opinion!
2017 Community Values Survey
The Issaquah PTSA Council is conducting a Community Values Survey within the Issaquah School District attendance area.  We are seeking your perspective on five Value Statements based on your experience in the Issaquah School District.  All community members are encouraged to participate including parents, teachers, students, and community members who do not have students in the local schools.  This survey closes on January 31 and the results will be shared with the ISD Administration, the ISD School Board, and the Issaquah Education Association in a presentation open to the public in early February. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2017CommunityValues

 

TRANSLATION:

¡El PTSA Council de Issaquah necesita de tu ayuda! Ellos quieren saber sobre los temas de importa para ti, sobre nuestros maestros y escuelas. Si eres un padre familia, estudiante, maestro u otro miembro de la comunidad, se te invita a compartir tu experiencia en la Encuesta de Valores de la Comunidad(Community Values Survey) del 2017. Completa la encuesta antes del 31 de enero, sigue las preguntas de la liga https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2017CommunityValues.
Los resultados se presentarán en una reunión pública a principios de febrero, en nombre de PTSA Council, ¡GRACIAS!

OSPI: New ESSA Resources Available in Top 8 Languages.

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From OSPI: New ESSA Resources Available in Top 8 Languages.
http://www.k12.wa.us/ESEA/ESSA/Resources.aspx

OSPI has translated five of our Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) flyers into the Top 8 languages spoken by Washington’s students. Those flyers address some of the biggest pieces of ESSA, including Title I: Federal Programs, Title II: Teacher & Principal Quality, Title III: English Learners, as well as Equity and 21st Century Community Learning Centers. These flyers were created to help readers understand the new federal education law—without first taking a course in legalese. They have been translated into Arabic, Korean, Russian, Spanish, Somali, Tagalog, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese. English-language flyers are available on the ESSA resource page.

January 2017 – Agenda Notes

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January Agenda
12/15/16 Draft Minutes
December Treasurer Report
Council Awards Information
Membership Report
Training Survey

REMINDERS

Outreach Donation Ask for Council meeting:   Flour and sugar. Thank you!

Council Award Nominations are being accepted now through February 15th: http://www.issaquahptsa.org/council-awards

Do not leave today’s meeting without your school’s Reflections artwork!

TREASURER

Reminder that if your PTA paid any subcontractors more than $600 in 2016 that you must issue them a 1099 by 1/31.  Subcontractors include after school program providers, accountants, etc.  Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Also, your Financial Review Committee should convene this month to do your mid year financial review (for July – December).  Results should be shared with your membership and included in your meeting minutes.  More information (including the review checklist) can be found on the WSPTA website in the Money Matters handbook.

ADVOCACY

In case you have not attended Focus Day in the past, we want you to have lots of information so you will know what to to expect! Focus Day draws WSPTA members to Olympia with the intent of giving them an in-person view of how the legislative process works, and how they can engage in it to advocate for their children. It also provides an opportunity for you to meet your local legislators and personally convey your priorities for your children. There will be focus on the “Top 5” WSPTA legislative priorities, which were decided by vote at the 2016 WSPTA Legislative Assembly. You can view details on each priority, as well as other supported issues and long-term resolutions at http://www.wastatepta.org/advocacy/index.html.

“TOP 5”

  • Social Emotional Learning
  • Amply Fund Basic Education
  • Closing the Opportunity Gap
  • Standards for Paraeducators
  • Breakfast after the Bell

On the agenda, Governor Inslee and new Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal will be speaking to us in the rotunda. The superintendent will share his vision for public education, and his top priorities for his first 100 days in office. You can view the governor’s new budget and $3.9B proposals to resolve the “McCleary problem” here:

http://wsptagrassroots.blogspot.com/2016/12/governor-releases-education-budget-asks.html?utm_source=Real%20Magnet&utm_medium=INSERT_CHANNEL&utm_campaign=INSERT_LINK_ID

Several people from Region 2 are working on setting up face to face meetings with legislators from districts 5 and 41. So far, there is an appointment set to meet with Jay Rodne at 2:30pm. You are welcome to attend this meeting! I will forward additional information if we receive more responses.

Check out the WSPTA Focus Day webpage to see the full agenda, as well as other details about the day and helpful links.  The link to register for Focus Day is also on this page. Kids are encouraged to attend, and there will be activities just for them on-site! You can also purchase boxed lunches on the registration page, or you can bring your own. Nearby food options are scarce, and the capitol cafeteria line can be very long! Focus Day page: http://www.wastatepta.org/meetings/focus_day/index.html. **Focus Day Registration for the morning program in the Columbia Room has sold out, but there are still many events available for those who didn’t register.

Lake Washington PTSA Council has generously offered a FREE bus ride to Focus Day! Priority will be given to riders from the Lake Washington district. Extra seats will likely fill up fast, so sign up here ASAP to reserve your seat https://www.signupforms.com/registrations/9253. They will also be coordinating carpools for those who aren’t able to ride the bus. If you are planning to drive, allow plenty of time to find parking. 

PLEASE NOTE: The LWPTSA bus will depart Olympia at 2:00pm. This will be BEFORE the scheduled 2:30pm meeting with Rep. Jay Rodne.

Blue Postcards – Please fill them out and return them at the January 12th Council meeting! If you missed the last Council meeting, postcards were given Council members that could be filled out with comments to legislators. Each president received 30 postcards to pass out to others. If you did not receive yours or would like to print more, you can find them here http://www.issaquahptsa.org/leg-postcard-art-4up-revised. I can also drop off extras to you. Take blank postcards to your next board meeting, school/social event, or to your neighbors. It only takes a minute to fill one out, and it really makes a difference to our legislators. If you will not be at the January meeting, please let me know and I will arrange to pick them up. I will be turning them in to the appropriate legislators on Focus Day. The more postcards we bring in, the bigger the impact!

If you have questions, please contact Korista at any time. Thank you for your dedication and all you do to make a difference for our kids!

See you at Focus Day!

ART IN THE SCHOOLS
Please pick up your art before leaving the meeting today.

BEST PRACTICES

Best Practices Checklist

FACE/Family And Community Engagement

Family partnership and Cultural Bridges are going to support the Kindergarten registration event at Apollo, Issaquah Valley Elementary School and Clark.  We will provide volunteers to translate flyers, help ELL families fill out the Kindergarten registration forms, answer questions.  We will make robo-calls to remind the families about the event and anything else the schools need to welcome the new families.     

We are also going to provide the same help for Issaquah Middle School at the transition event on March 6th.

HEALTHY YOUTH NETWORK

State of Mind Conferences. Flyers: JPG | PDF

  • Saturday, February 4, Mary Queen of Peace Church in Sammamish PROGRAM
  • Saturday, March 11, Liberty High School in Renton
  • Saturday, April 29, Issaquah High School in Issaquah

All Events will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Influence the Choice Video Contest is up and running. Deadline to submit is March 10th at 5pm.

High School Flyer: JPG | PDF
Middle School Flyer: JPG | PDF

 

ISSAQUAH SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

.

MEMBERSHIP

Washington State PTA Membership Leadership Guide

January Membership Report Details

OUTREACH

Outreach Notes – This page is kept current as needs or programs change.

This month’s Outreach Ask for Council meeting:  The Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank is asking for Flour & Sugar this month.  Thank you!

PARENTWISER (formerly Parent Education)

A ParentWiser representative will be attending your January or February General Membership Meeting in January or early February  to increase awareness of our new lecture series, and specifically engage parents in the Community Book Read for upcoming national keynote speaker, Jessica Lahey, author of “Gift of Failure – How the best parents learn to let go so their children can succeed” in Issaquah on April 25th.

Meantime, please post our monthly Enews blurbs (see 2 options below):

1)      Check out our new parent ed lecture series at http://ParentWiser.org.  Registrations open for Jan-April!
OR,
2)      Coming soon – ParentWiser presents…

Jan 12th  Birds & Bees Talks for the 21st Century: Raising Kids in the Age of Technology, by Amy Lang at 7-8:30pm at Cascade Ridge Elementary on how and when to talk about the birds and the bees and simple tips for handling all the yucky stuff tech can bring into kids’ lives.   For parents of grades K-5.  FLYERS:  DOC | PDF

Jan 17th Teen Kindness Advocate, Houston Kraft speaks to parents 6:30-7:30pm at Issaquah Middle School on what young people today NEED to be successful and kind.  For parents of grades 6-12.  FLYERS:  DOC | PDF

Feb 28th Changing the Game, by John O’Sullivan, author and keynote at 6:30pm at Issaquah High Theater on what athletics teaches us about life lessons, how to give our kids a competitive edge while allowing them to learn and grow through enjoyable, rewarding experiences.  FLYERS: DOC | PDF

Register for these and future events at http://ParentWiser.org.  Walk-ins are also welcome!

ParentWiser Logo.

REFLECTIONS
We will be returning he Reflections artwork, that does not move on to the next stage, to the Presidents on Thursday.
Please do not leave without taking your school’s artwork. 

STAR/SPECIAL EDUCATION
The Special Education Committee had its first meeting of the year with ISD Special Services Administrators on December 19, 2016 to begin talking about how we can work together. The next Parent Advisory Meeting will be in March during the monthly Special Services Staff Advisory Meeting. This committee is pushing to a survey to families with students receiving special services to gain a better understanding of what parents, guardians and students need in terms of resources, programming and advocacy. Please share the URL and blurb in your PTSA communications channels; it will be sent to Presidents and Communications chairs.

VICE PRESIDENTS

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VOLUNTEERS FOR ISSAQUAH SCHOOLS (VIS)
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WEBMASTER/DIRECTORY

Presidents – Directories were distributed last month. If you missed that meeting, please pick up your copy before leaving.

SURVEYS – Surveys are great for many things, including collecting nominations for awards! Contact Cindy to set yours up.

Other

Council Awards

Every year the Issaquah PTSA Council awards those in the community that show extraordinary commitment to ensuring every student in our district gets an outstanding education.
Click HERE to submit your award nomination online. Award Nominations must be submitted by Wednesday, February 15th by Midnight. Entries will be submitted to the Awards Committee.
Award Guidelines and Award Rubric can be found HERE.

The 2016-2017 district-wide PTA/PTSA Awards Reception:

April 4th
7-8:30pm
Issaquah Middle School Commons

This reception is to honor all Golden Acorn and Outstanding Advocate Award Winners from all of our schools in the Issaquah School District.

Mid-Winter Conference Webinar Trainings:

Nominating Committee – Feb 7th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/region-2-nominating-committee-training-webinar-tickets-30891911539

Money Matters – Feb 11th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/region-2-money-matters-webinar-tickets-30891767107

*There is a 100 participant limit statewide for each of the webinars.

Gibson Ek Student Showcase – Friday, January 13th, 6 -8 pm at Gibson Ek High School.

This Friday is an amazing opportunity to meet Gibson Ek students; tour our campus and innovation spaces; see and hear about student project work; learn about our programs and clubs; hear from students about cool internships; and watch Gibson Ek‘s first music performance! Eat dinner with us at Charlie’s food truck- gourmet burgers and sandwiches and enjoy an evening getting to know the fabulous students of Gibson Ek. 
Friends, family, community members and future Gibson Ek students are invited to join us.

ESSA CONSOLIDATED PLAN TO BE SUBMITTED IN SEPTEMBER

State Superintendent, Chris Reykdal, announced on January 10 that Washington State’s Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Plan will not be submitted to the Federal Department of Education until September 18, 2017.  Public comment on the plan can be submitted here; closes February 13.

December 2016 – Agenda Notes

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December Agenda
11/10/16 Draft Minutes
November Treasurer Report
Making Gifts to the Issaquah School District

REMINDERS

Outreach Donation Ask for Council meeting:   New or gently used books to be distributed with the Lunch for the Break boxes. Thank you!

 

PRESIDENT

Running a Successful After School Enrichment Program Training Handout

 

TREASURER

Once you receive your new Certificate of Insurance, please a copy to Laila.
REMINDER: Without a current insurance certificate on file with ISD, you are unable to hold PTA activities in ISD buildings.

 

ADVOCACY

Register here for FOCUS DAY: http://www.wastatepta.org/meetings/focus_day/index.html

Download and print POSTCARDS!  

Find your district: http://app.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder/

Plan ahead to attend FOCUS DAY on January 16th, 9:00am-1:00pm in Olympia! This WSPTA event is an impactful day for advocates of education. You will be able to rally on the steps of the state capitol with other advocates, and will have a chance to greet your legislators face to face! Since January 16th is a “no school” day, it is also an opportunity to involve your children in speaking up for education. Our legislators love to hear from kids!

The Lake Washington school district will be chartering a bus to Focus Day, which will be open to all of Region 2. Information on registering to ride the bus will be emailed to Presidents and Advocacy Reps. when available, along with detailed information about what to expect on Focus Day.

ART IN THE SCHOOLS
  • November updates
    • 90 attendees to the October Art Docent Conference
      • Wonderfully successful
      • Lots of positive feedback from docents about feeling more confident about teaching in the classroom after attending the event
      • Art lessons taught at the conference are showing up on the walls of the schools
    • 35 signups for monthly classes this fall
      • Need to do more marketing to get the word out
      • How to solve the sign up and don’t show up problem?
    • NEW One Drive link (latest version) Please update any links you may have to our One Drive with the Art Docent Lessons.  Microsoft changed it again.
  • Upcoming events & Works in progress
    • Trainings funded by Schools Foundation Fine Arts Fund
    • Issaquah Schools Foundation Grant   
    • Art Docent Curriculum development project
      • Angie Warren, from Issaquah Valley Elementary is our project manager
        • She is finalizing the staff to write, edit, compile and reformat the lessons we are using
      • Liz St.Andre is our tech lead – she will be insuring that our lessons are formatted and saved in a way that will work with our Schools Foundation web site.  She and I met with Schools Foundation staff to make sure we are all on the same page.
      • Volunteers have met three times to sort through and assign lessons to their respective subjects & grades.  Those will be processed as we move forward.
      • Lessons that have been taught at our Docent Conference’s and/or paid for by Schools Foundation grants have been tagged. Most of those will find a home in our curriculum.
      • We will be asking for more lessons to fill holes we will have in the New Year.
BEST PRACTICES

Best Practices Checklist

December 2016 Top Checklist Items

  • Start promoting the WSPTA’s Men Making A Difference” student essay contest. This is a great opportunity for students to write essays about an important male role model. 2016-17 Essay Entry must be postmarked by 3/1/17. For SoE app: Print example of how you promoted the contest to your members(e.g., eNews/FB/website/etc.).  A great activity for students to do during Winter Break!
  • Continue asking for volunteers to serve on your PTSA/ PTA’s Nominating Committee.  If slated, consider electing your Nominating Committee during your December GM Meeting.
  • Share an article or information from Council, Region 2, WSTPA and/or National PTA with members (at GM meeting, in eNews, on Facebook, etc.). Print examples for each using two different communication methods you regularly use to communicate with members. For Facebook, you will need to provide multiple posts from varying months to demonstrate regular communications. Information shared can be from a Council or Region training or meeting, WSPTA or National PTA websites.

Here are a few quick links to articles to copy and paste: 

Why Bad Moms Need PTA

Why I Volunteer

Tips To Keep Kids Safe Online

Webinar-  Safe Drinking Water in Schools

On the Radar for January 2017:

o   Hold a mid-year retreat or meeting with your Board to discuss and evaluate your PTA’s achievements thus far and review what you need to do for the balance of the year to meet the goals and needs of your PTA. What is your PTA’s process to evaluate current year’s goals, programs and activities? (Surveys, suggestion box, post event evaluations, GM open forum, etc.).

o   Promote Focus Day (scheduled for Monday, Jan. 16, 2017) and encourage Board/members to attend. For SoE app: Print copy of all attendees’ registrations – up to 3 people for maximum SoE app points). For SoE Platinum Level: Print example of how you shared Focus Day info with members (e.g., minutes, newsletter, website, etc.)  Register Here for 2017 Focus Day

o   Consider electing your Nominating Committee at your January GM Meeting. Review Article 5, Section 5 of the WSPTA 2016-17 Uniform Bylaws regarding election procedures. For SoE app: Make copy of GM minutes showing election of Nominating Committee.

FACE/Family And Community Engagement

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HEALTHY YOUTH NETWORK

No Report.

ISSAQUAH SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

 

MEMBERSHIP

Washington State PTA Membership Leadership Guide

 

OUTREACH

No Report. 

Outreach Notes – This page is kept current as needs or programs change.

PARENTWISER (formerly Parent Education)

A lot of new, fantastic parent ed events are coming to Issaquah schools!

In January,

Many of your PTSA websites are still posting OLD past events/info.  PLEASE update monthly with our proposed communications below.  If you can’t keep up, just send parents  to http://ParentWiser.org.  Contact parentwiser@issaquahptsa.org  if you need another logo/button.

(Our surveys show that attending parents are aware of our events mostly through PTSA, Facebook.  We have to PUSH the information in multiple channels, multiple times. How will you reach your non-PTSA parents? We ask for registrations, but we always have room for walk-ins!  Please advertise widely throughout your school communities, especially:

Send in school ENews

Send in PTA/PTSA ENews/Website/Email to membership

Post dates on school and/or PTSA calendars (even though it may be held at a different school location!)

Post on school and/or PTSA Facebook/Twitter

Post flyers (attached!) on school/PTSA bulletin boards

If your school is hosting an event, add it to your reader board out front!

For printing & services  use Fedex WA State PTA discount code:  052 088 2103 . 

Announce these events with a flyer at PTSA Board & General Membership Meetings!

 

For ENews (cut/paste for your school population below):

————————————————————————————

ParentWiser presents…

Jan 12th  Birds & Bees Talks for the 21st Century: Raising Kids in the Age of Technology, by Amy Lang at 7-8:30pm at Cascade Ridge Elementary on how and when talk about the birds and the bees and simple tips for handling all the yucky stuff tech can bring into kids’ lives.   For parents of grades K-5.   FLYER DOC | FLYER PDF

Jan 17th Teen Kindness Advocate, Houston Kraft speaks to parents 6:30-7:30pm at Issaquah Middle School on what young people today NEED to be successful and kind.  For parents of grades 6-12.  FLYER DOC | FLYER PDF

Register for these and future events at http://ParentWiser.org.  Walk-in are also welcome!

We will also be attending your January or February General Membership Meetings to help build awareness for our February and April keynote authors/speakers:

  1. John O’Sullivan on 2/28th on “Changing the Game”
  2. Jessica Lahey on 4/25th on “Gift of Failure – How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed”

Please contact parentwiser@issaquahptsa.org if you are interested in joining our parent ed committee to provide ideas for topics, speakers, venues, or can volunteer for Social Media Manager of Facebook/Twitter pages.  Also contact us if your PTSA is looking for recommended local/lower cost speakers/topics to attract parents to your PTSA General Membership Meetings.

Thank you!

Heidi Fuhs & Debbie Steinberg Kuntz

ParentWiser

Issaquah PTSA Council

parentwiser@issaquahptsa.org

http://ParentWiser.org

 

REFLECTIONS

We received a total of 264 entries from 23 schools. Gibson Ek did not send in any entries.

We are currently judging the entries. We are able to send a total of 53 to State plus the one Special Artist entry we received.

The Reflections Chairs from each school were given invitations to the Reception, when they dropped off their submissions on November 21st.

The District Reception is on TUESDAY January 10th 2017 at IHS from 6.30-8.00pm.

The finalists moving on to State will only be notified on January 10th.

STAR/SPECIAL EDUCATION
No Report.
VICE PRESIDENTS

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VOLUNTEERS FOR ISSAQUAH SCHOOLS (VIS)

 The Issaquah School District Capital Projects department has been working to complete construction projects on our schools that have been financed through the passage of our bonds. The most recent bond was passed in April 2016 (thank you to our community!!!!) They have been working on managing land acquisition, planning and design, construction, renovation of schools and district facilities.

Please click on this link to look at the projects that have been completed from the passage of the 2012 bond and the projects in the works from the 2016 bond here: http://www.issaquah.wednet.edu/district/departments/CapProjects

Click here to see the latest news and construction timeline on the Pine Lake Middle School Rebuild:  http://www.issaquah.wednet.edu/district/departments/CapProjects/Projects/pine-lake-middle-school-rebuild

Please visit the Volunteers for Issaquah Schools webpage here for information:  www.visvote.org
and don’t forget to “Like” Volunteers for Issaquah Schools Facebook page for periodic updates on your newsfeed.
WEBMASTER/DIRECTORY

Directories will be distributed at this meeting.

Other

Highlights from the ParentWiser Run, Hide, Fight presentation.
       – Kimberly Nocco

The following suggestions are mostly for adults and are relevant in many settings: office, theater, public gathering. The message that has been given to most younger students in the district is simply “Listen to your teacher/an adult in charge.”

If possible, RUN. Make sure your hands are EMPTY and held where police can see them. As a demonstration, one officer held a black phone while swinging her arms running – it really looked like it could be a firearm. If you take your phone or car keys, put them in your pocket or bra (seriously, he said that) and DON’T reach for them unexpectedly, you’ll get yourself shot.

If you can’t run, HIDE. Take cover – the spots recommended were behind large electrical boxes (contain copper, can stop bullets), behind a large concrete pillar, behind the FRONT end of a car near the tire (bullets go through the trunk area). If indoors, lock/barricade the door, turn off phones/vibration (your family will call you and give away your hiding spot! And this goes the other way, don’t keep calling loved ones if they might be hiding).

Finally, if no other option, FIGHT. Work together. Be committed to incapacitate the attacker. Look for resources, even if unconventional – fire extinguishers, hot coffee, belt, chair…

Always FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS of first responders/SWAT, even if they seem unusual. They have a tactical reason for every request and don’t have time to be polite. As an example, the officer pushed a victim towards the center of the room to prevent injury from stray bullets bouncing off walls. The first responders are there to neutralize the threat, not help you, stay out of their way. When they arrive on the scene, they have a lot of information to take in quickly and decide who is the threat – don’t give them any reason to suspect you.

Attached is one of the best summaries of Run, Hide, Fight that I’ve seen. https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/national/activeshooter/

And this is the official video shown in the presentation: https://youtu.be/5VcSwejU2D0

 

November 2016 – Agenda Notes

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REMINDERS

Outreach Donation Ask for Council meeting:   Progresso type Soups (not condensed) and dried fruits. Thank you!

District Bell Times Information & CDC Infographic

TREASURER
  • Don’t forget to file your 990/990EZ/990N by 11/15/16 or file for an extension.
  • Don’t forget to renew your AIM insurance in November.
  • Once you receive your new Certificate of Insurance, please email me a copy so I can provide it to Cindy Schwinden (ISD Facilities Use Scheduler).  Without a current insurance certificate on file with ISD, you are unable to hold PTA activities in ISD buildings.
ADVOCACY

2016 Washington State PTA Legislative Assembly Report

Three members of your Council Board attended Legislative Assembly in October. We educated ourselves on all of the proposed issues and resolutions, and voted to support those we thought would be most important and relevant to our students.

Please go to WSPTA Grassroots Connection Blogspot for more detailed information and a Post Legislative Assembly Summary: http://wsptagrassroots.blogspot.com/ . You can also visit this page to sign up for Grassroots Updates, and to find links to other Advocacy Resources.

2016-2018 Legislative Platform (Top Five)

  1. Social Emotional Learning*
  2. Amply Fund Basic Education*
  3. Closing the Opportunity Gap*
  4. Standards for Paraeducators*
  5. Breakfast after the Bell*


Issues Also Supported (listed alphabetically)

  • Improving Educational Outcomes for Foster Children*
  • Engaging Families in Student Success
  • Post-Secondary Higher Education*
  • Removing Barriers to Implementing ECEAP (Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program)
  • Restorative Justice and School Safety

*2015-16 legislative issues

New Long Term Resolutions

Child Sex Trafficking
Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, and Dyspraxia (sensory disorders) and their Educational Impact
Mitigating Environmental Hazards and Contaminants in Schools

 

Expanded Learning Parent/Guardian Survey

Link to survey: http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/2682246/ELOC-Parent-Guardian-Survey?platform=hootsuite

This survey is being conducted by the Expanded Learning Opportunities Council (ELOC). The ELOC was created in 2014 to advise the Governor, Legislature, and Superintendent of Public Instruction regarding expanded learning opportunities for students. Your input as a parent or guardian will be used to help guide the ELOC’s recommendations about:

  • Before, after, and summer school programs
  • Potential changes to the school year calendar
  • Enhanced learning opportunities for students
You can complete the survey in just a few minutes. This could impact the implementation of learning schedules and programs for our students!
ART IN THE SCHOOLS
BEST PRACTICES

Best Practices Checklist

 

FACE/Family And Community Engagement

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HEALTHY YOUTH NETWORK

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ISSAQUAH SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

Issaquah Schools Foundation Agenda Notes

 

MEMBERSHIP

Membership Notes

Washington State PTA Membership Leadership Guide

 

OUTREACH

Outreach Notes – This page is kept current as needs or programs change.

PARENTWISER (formerly Parent Education)
  1. ParentWiser held it’s first quarterly committee meeting on 10/19th  inviting all Parent Ed Reps from each school to provide input, feedback, and lend skills to improve our offerings and events.  We are lacking involvement from ALL schools!  We rely on your parent ed reps voice to help deliver what your school communities want. Currently we seek a Social Media volunteer to create/manage a Facebook account. Questions & comments to parentwiser@issaquahptsa.org.
  2. ParentWiser would like to speak 2-3 minutes at your Fall/Winter General Membership Meeting to create awareness for several events around our main keynote speaker, Jessica Lahey, author of Gift of Failure.  Please send us your GMM date for Nov/Dec/Jan for 2-3 mins on your agenda.
  3. The November events are below: these went out last Friday to Parent Ed Reps and Communications Chairs.  Please make sure your school advertises these district-wide events!

ParentWiser presents…

Nov 21st  Run, Hide, Fight  at 7pm at Issaquah High School, Black Box Theater by School Resource Officer and Active Shooter Trainer, Diego Zanella of Issaquah Police Dept.   FLYER.
Increasingly we’re hearing about shooters in schools, offices, churches and around town. Whether present in a public space, or waiting to hear from loved ones at a scene, do you know what to do?  For parents of K-12.

Nov 29th SCREENAGERS – Growing Up in the Digital Age at 7-9pm at Liberty High School, Theater. FLYER.
Another chance to see this film documentary, with expert panel Q&A, exploring struggles over social media, video games, academics and internet addiction. With insights from psychologists, brain scientists, and families, SCREENAGERS reveals how tech time impacts kids’ development and how parents can best navigate the digital world and find balance.  Watch the trailer at:  http://www.screenagersmovie.com    For parents & students of K-12.

Register for these events at http://ParentWiser.org These ParentWiser events are FREE for Issaquah school district PTSA members, $5 donation requested for non-members at the door; sponsored by Issaquah PTSA Council, Issaquah Schools Foundation and Swedish Medical of Issaquah.

Parentwiser Logo.

Check out http://parentwiser.org for a current listing of parent education events, registrations, and resources across the Issaquah school district.

 

REFLECTIONS

District Turn In: Monday, November 21, 10-Noon in the Issaquah Library Meeting Room (Sunset/Front St). Contact Yvette at reflections@issaquahptsa.org or Leah redleah@mindspring.com 425-281-6464 if you have any difficulty.

STAR/SPECIAL EDUCATION

We will be sending out a survey soon to families with students receiving Special Services in order to get feedback on where to focus our advocacy and support efforts moving forward. We will send the link and newsletter blurb out for you to include in PTSA communications.

The first Special Education Parent Night hosted by ISD Special Services Administrators is November 17th from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Sunny Hills Elementary in the library. The topic is “Special Ed 101.”

VICE PRESIDENTS

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VOLUNTEERS FOR ISSAQUAH SCHOOLS (VIS)

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WEBMASTER/DIRECTORY

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Other

Synopsis of Issaquah School District Presentation by Pam Ridenour – Director of  Counseling Services

October 2016 – Agenda Notes

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REMINDERS

Outreach Donation Ask for Council meeting:  As a follow up to Diaper Need Awareness Week Sept. 26 through October 2, please consider a donation of diapers or baby food or baby formula. Thank you!

Delegate forms must be submitted to the council secretary no later than this October meeting!

TREASURER
  1. Make sure your Council Fees (Dues, SurveyMonkey Fee, Parent Ed Fee, and ACT Donation) are sent to me by October 31, 2016.  An invoice was sent out to all treasurers about this last week so they should know what needs to be done.
  2. 990/990EZ/990N tax returns are due to the IRS by 11/15/16 (for the period of 7/1/15-6/30/16).  Please check with your treasurer to make sure this gets done.  You can file an automatic 5 month extension if necessary.  The state PTA website has great information on 990s if you need help.
ADVOCACY

Link to the WSPTA Legislative Advocacy page: http://www.wastatepta.org/advocacy/index.html. This is a great place to look for legislative events, updates, the monthly Advocacy To-Do List and other information.

Attend Washington State PTA Legislative Assembly on October 21-22at the Olympia Red Lion!

At Leg. Assembly you will get to network with people from around our state who are dedicated to Advocacy. You will vote on long term resolutions which will outline the WSPTA stand on statewide issues. You will also vote on the short term “Top 5” priorities, which will form the WSPTA legislative platform for the next two years.

Click here http://www.wastatepta.org/advocacy/2016_Leg_Assembly.html to view the Legislative Assembly page. Here you can register to attend, view the class tracks and agenda, read the issues packet, and reserve accommodations.

Important Legislative Assembly Dates:

October 12th – Last day to reserve a room at the Olympia Red Lion at the group discounted rate.

October 17th – Last day for presidents to submit delegates for Leg. Assembly. Email names to tvasbinder@wastatepta.org. Please email from the ‘president’s email address’ that WSPTA has on file for you, and include your local PTA/PTSA number.

October 20th – Last day to register for Leg. Assembly and choose your classes.

Remember that any classes you attend at Leg. Assembly count as your training requirement for the year! Woo-hoo!!

(Please note: Your PTA/PTSA budget should have money allotted for at least one person to attend Leg. Assembly each year. If you need more information on how to do this, I can help you! Please email me at advocacy@issaquahptsa.org)

Register to Vote

Get ready to vote in the November 8th election! If you are not registered, you can still register in person through October 31st. The King Co. elections office is conveniently located at: 919 SW Grady Way, Renton, WA 98057 / Phone: 206-296-8683 / Office Hours: 8am-4:30pm

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction Candidate Forums

Candidates Erin Jones and Chris Reykdal will hold several public forums around the state to explain their stands on education issues. The next forum in our vicinity will be at Highline College in Des Moines on October 15th. You can view the full schedule and register to attend any of the forums on the League of Education Voters website. You can also go here to listen to interviews with both candidates. LEV website: http://educationvoters.org/2016/03/17/state-superintendent-of-public-instruction-candidate-forums/

Don’t forget to vote for the candidate of your choosing!
October Advocacy Chair To-Do List:

  • Attend Legislative Assembly!
  • Remind members to mail their ballots for the general election by the first Tuesday in November.
  • Continue to learn about local and state issues.
  • Report Legislative Assembly results back to members, both at meetings and in a newsletter article (points for Standards of Excellence for posting state PTA news!).
  • Hold a candidate forum.

 

Please always feel free to email me with questions, comments or requests. If there is an Advocacy/Legislative topic that you would like to hear more about, please let me know!

Thank you,

Korista Smith-Barney

advocacy@issaquahptsa.org

ART IN THE SCHOOLS

ART DOCENT CONFERENCE 2016

Annual Art Docent Conference October 22, 2016 at Grand Ridge Elementary from 9:00 – 3:30 pm.

This conference is the opportunity for elementary school adult volunteer art docents to explore new mediums, learn new techniques, try out new lesson plans and connect with fellow docents and area teaching artists.  www.SignUpGenius.com/go/10C0A49AEA72BA13-artdocent2

Class List

***Children are not allowed on premise during the art docent conference.  Please make plans accordingly.***

 

Upcoming Art Docent training opportunities @ ARTEAST

 

BEST PRACTICES

Best Practices Checklist

FACE/Family And Community Engagement

What Every Parent Wants to Know about the American School System Translated Flyers:

HEALTHY YOUTH NETWORK

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ISSAQUAH SCHOOLS FOUNDATION
  • Next Dining for Kids is at Agave in the Issaquah Highlands on November 2nd. Please spread the word about this all day event.
  • All In For Kids signs should be up by October 17th. Instructions as to where to put (and where not to put) signs will be attached. Signs come down by November 18th.
  • All In For Kids Social Media Drive (Click for Kids) starts October 20th.
  • A Grant Writing Workshop is scheduled for November 3rd at 5:30pm at Issaquah Valley Elementary
  • Grant Applications Open on November 4th; see Foundation website for timeline
  • All school Click for Kids/Honk and Wave efforts are scheduled for November 4th.
  • All In For Kids Calling Nights (where district students from high school groups call the community) are on November 10th and 15th.
  • May 11, 2017 is the annual Nourish Every Mind Luncheon at Meydenbauer Center, Bellevue
  • May 17, 2017 is the annual Nourish Every Mind Breakfast at Eastridge Church, Issaquah
  • Contact Valerie Korock at valerie@isfdn.org if you know anyone who would like to (or if you would like to) volunteer as an online Future Map Career Coach. Go to www.isfdn.org/FutureMap/.
  • Contact VOICE@isfdn.org to volunteer as a VOICE Mentor. Students in high school can volunteer as VOICE Mentors, too.
  • Go to www.issaquahschoolsfoundation.org and click on Volunteer to sign up to learn more about all the Foundation’s many volunteer opportunities.
MEMBERSHIP

Membership Awards posted by Washington State PTA: http://bit.ly/2dTdu0M

 

OUTREACH

Current information: http://www.issaquahptsa.org/programs/outreach This page is kept current as needs or programs change.

PARENTWISER (formerly Parent Education)

Parent Ed is now Parentwiser! Check out http://parentwiser.org for a current listing of parent education events, registrations, and resources across the Issaquah school district.

Contact:  parentwiser@issaquahptsa.org

Please note these dates in your school calendars, put into ENews, PTSA/School Facebook, etc.

  • Oct 17, 2016 – SCREENAGERS – Growing Up in the the Digital Age.  Film documentary and panel Q&A.  7:00pm at Issaquah High Theater.  For parents AND students K-12.
  • Feb, 2017 – speaker John O’Sullivan, author of “Changing the Game”, about how parent’s can best support kids today in the competitive world of sports. Date/time/place TBD.  For parents of K-12.
  • Apr 25, 2017 – speaker Jessica Lahey, author of “Gift of Failure” – How the best parents learn to let go so their children can succeed.   7:00pm at Issaquah High Theater.  This keynote will be preceded by a community book read about a month in advance.  Details coming soon.   For parents of K-12.

Other speakers, topics and dates coming soon.

REFLECTIONS

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STAR/SPECIAL EDUCATION
We are rebuilding the Special Education Committee this year. We have a new chairperson and we are looking to connect with Special Education chairs at each school/PTSA to learn what is working and not working and gather consensus on what the committee can best do and provide.
Please check out our new website on the Issaquah Council PTSA page: www.issaquahstar.org
www.facebook.com/groups/IssaquahSTAR
FLYER LINK.
VICE PRESIDENTS

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VOLUNTEERS FOR ISSAQUAH SCHOOLS (VIS)
Here is information for our wonderful Issaquah PTA/PTSAs to put on their websites or link to the VIS website. It is very important that we continuously educate our parents and school communities about what Volunteers for Issaquah Schools (VIS) does to promote bonds and levies for the Issaquah School District.
Volunteers for Issaquah Schools (VIS) has gotten several requests for information and a VIS logo for PTAs to put on their Our School Pages PTA Websites to link the VIS site. We have attached a JPG image to these agenda notes for PTA communications directors to put either on the main menu or their advocacy page.
What is VIS flyer PDF file to link on your website and the link to bus image: 
If you do not have a link to VIS, would you please add one somewhere on your website? 
Link to VIS Webpage: http://www.visvote.org/
ISD link to the Capital Projects website: http://www.issaquah.wednet.edu/district/departments/CapProjects
Please LIKE VIS on FACEBOOK for up to date news and information
WEBMASTER/DIRECTORY

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Other

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2016 Legislative Issues Survey

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Help Washington State PTA Speak Up for Kids! Please take the 2016 Legislative Issues Survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/R8Z2HWG

Our vision is to make every child’s potential a reality. PTA works in classrooms and communities across the state, but we also advocate in Olympia for the well-being and education of all children. Every fall, the association selects its legislative priorities, and hearing from you is a valuable step in the process. Your responses will assist voting delegates who attend Legislative Assembly in Olympia October 21-22, 2016 in setting the 2016-17 legislative platform.

The survey closes on October 6th at 12:15 p.m. 

Parent Night Sessions Hosted By ISD & ISF

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Parent Night Sessions
The Issaquah School District and Issaquah Schools Foundation invite parents to attend Parent Night Sessions Presented by Brandyn Roark Caires and Kire Dassel from Brooks Powers Group – see below for information on speakers.
Session 1: Positive Parenting: 
October 19, 2016: Issaquah High School 7-8:30 PM 

This training focuses on how to reframe and shift our thinking about kids and parenting by using key strategies and skills based in positive reinforcement and how to set firm, consistent, and kind limits; while understanding the stages of the developing brain.

Session 2: Parenting the Developing Mind 
November 7, 2016: Issaquah High School 7-8:30 PM 
This training is a culmination of brain science and research for parents about how and when children’s minds/brains develop and how they can “follow, shape, and guide” the needs of their child’s developing mind from kindergarten to adolescents. We discuss key components in knowing what we can expect from our children at various stages in their development. In addition, you will learn how to identify when or if your child needs additional support to manage life’s hurdles.
Session 3: Helping or Hindering 
March 2, 2017: Issaquah High School 7-8:30 PM 
This training focuses on understanding our own caretaking and parenting styles (permissive, authoritative, authoritarian, etc.) and how they affect a child’s developing mind and their behaviors. We will introduce and explore several ways of problem solving with children, by using different parenting techniques, styles, and approaches.

Speakers:

Brandyn Roark Caires, MS, LCPCI, is a Clinical Mental and Behavioral Health Therapist with over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. Brandyn has diverse experience working within residential programs, hospital settings, education and schools, and in homes with parents.
Brandyn’s early career began with working with children from the Inpatient Psychiatric Unit in the Therapy Pool, at Seattle Children’s Hospital. She later transitioned to working in rural community mental health and residential treatment facilities in North Idaho. Additionally, Brandyn has worked as a CPS provider, co-facilitated Juvenile Sex Offender Treatment Programs, and developed Aquatic Therapy programs for children with PTSD and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Brandyn currently travels to work as a Mental and Behavioral Health consultant for Brooks Powers Group in Seattle. Where she supports several school districts in training educators, support staff, and administration in how to effectively use evidence-based interventions to support students who struggle with social and emotional challenges.
She resides in Bozeman, Montana where she practices as a school-based Mental Health Therapist and also runs her own private practice/consulting business, Mind Matters, PLLC. in Montana.

Kire Dassel, M.Ed, is a Certified Special Education Teacher – Preschool through 12th grade – and has her Masters in Education with a focus on Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities. She brings over 13 years of experience directly supporting and teaching children and training their care teams to develop effective educational programs. She has worked directly in schools, in homes, and in treatment facilities. Kire supports teams to collaborate and create sustainable plans to help children meet their educational goals.
Kire began her career teaching primary grades at Birralee International School in Trondheim, Norway. Kire then returned to the Seattle area and upon completion of her Masters, she helped to coordinate the educational support and programming of students re-entering schools after a stay in Seattle’s Children’s Inpatient Psychiatric Unit. Kire is currently the Assistant Director of School Services for Brooks Powers Group in Seattle, Washington.
Kire trains and supports school personnel and other care providers to develop and implement specific positive behavior support programs across settings. She also provides guidance and training to teams to build evidence-based school programs and systems for children. Kire’s cliental includes young children, adolescents, and young adults with a wide range of disabilities and presentations including various learning disabilities, cognitive impairments, emotional and behavioral disorders, communication disorders, and psychiatric issues.

September 2016 – Agenda Notes (PTD)

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REMINDERS

Outreach Donation Ask for Council meeting:  In support of Month of Concern Campaign, we’re collecting donations from the Items Most Needed List.  Thank you!    http://eastsideforum.org/fooddrive/images/emoclist.pdf

Delegate forms need to be submitted to the council secretary no later than the October meeting.

TREASURER
  1. Make sure your Council Fees (Dues, SurveyMonkey Fee, Parent Ed Fee, and ACT Donation) are sent to me by October 31, 2016.  An invoice was sent out to all treasurers about this last week so they should know what needs to be done.
  2. 990/990EZ/990N tax returns are due to the IRS by 11/15/16 (for the period of 7/1/15-6/30/16).  Please check with your treasurer to make sure this gets done.  You can file an automatic 5 month extension if necessary.  The state PTA website has great information on 990s if you need help.
ADVOCACY

Please register to vote! The deadline to register to vote online or by mail is October 10th.

Register here: http://www.sos.wa.gov/elections/myvote/olvr.html

Washington State PTA Legislative Assembly will be on October 21st-22nd at the Red Lion Hotel in Olympia. This is your chance to vote for WSPTA’s “Top 5” two year legislative platform, and learn more about your local government and how to be an effective advocate for education. Bonus: Classes count as WSPTA approved training!

Click here for the agenda, class list, issue packet and other detailed information (registration link will work soon): http://www.wastatepta.org/advocacy/2016_Leg_Assembly.html

Don’t forget to submit the names your delegates for Leg. Assembly to WSPTA before the October 17th deadline. You will receive an email from WSPTA telling you the number of delegates your PTA can send. A delegate should be someone who is a PTA member, is knowledgeable about the current issues for consideration, and is prepared to vote on them. Their votes should reflect the opinions of your membership since they will be voting on their behalf.

During this election season, please remember that your PTA cannot endorse any political candidate. You can allow a candidate to speak at a PTA meeting ONLY IF you allow the opposing candidate equal time.

Superintendent of Public Instruction candidates Chris Reykdal and Erin Jones will be holding several public forums before election day. Click here to view the schedule and register to attend: http://educationvoters.org/2016/03/17/state-superintendent-of-public-instruction-candidate-forums/

If you are unable to attend in person, TVW will be providing coverage. Check their website for details as dates approach: http://www.tvw.org/elections-2016/

ART IN THE SCHOOLS

Save the Date:  3rd Annual Art Docent Conference October 22nd at Grand Ridge Elementary from9:00 – 3:30.

Monthly Classes to support Art Docents at Art East. This year our classes will be funded by the Foundation Fine Arts Fund.  We are also able to increase our monthly trainings to 10 this year.

October 28th– Clay 101

November (TBD)- Glazing 101

December (TBD)- Fused Glass

Watch for more info and sign up genius soon!

Our Curriculum Review Committee met this summer. We are receiving about $20,000 from ISF to revamp our curriculum to align with the elements and principles of art.  This will allow us to standardize, format. and develop at least 165 lessons to be used by all the elementary schools.  All of the kilns in the schools will also be cleaned and serviced.

Be an Art Docent or assistant at Echo Glen Children’s Center – Echo Glen is a Washington State Juvenile Detention facility and a school operated by the Issaquah School District with boys and girls as young as 10 and up to about 18 years old; majority are 13 to 17. You would share art with a class of no more than 11 youth once a month from 12:21 to 1:32PM –day of month TBD by you and your teacher. Use your own favorite lessons and projects or choose from ones that current docents have used over the last 10 years. We have an amazing art room full of lots of supplies for you. More info here: http://www.smilepower.org/EG_Art_Docent.html. Interested? Contact susan@smilepower.org

BEST PRACTICES

Best Practices Checklist  has been updated for 2016-2017.

FACE/Family And Community Engagement

Introduction to the American School System – English Flyer.

HEALTHY YOUTH NETWORK

Walking Into Darkness: Understanding the Suicidal Youth. FLYER.

ISF

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MEMBERSHIP

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OUTREACH

Current information: http://www.issaquahptsa.org/programs/outreach This page is kept current as needs or programs change.

PARENTWISER (formerly Parent Education)

Parent Ed is becoming Parentwiser!  We will be launching our new website soon.  Meantime, we have some exciting speakers planned, and more on the way.  Please note these dates in your school calendars, put into ENews, PTSA/School Facebook, etc.

  • Oct 17, 2016 – SCREENAGERS – Growing Up in the the Digital Age.  Film documentary and panel Q&A.  7:00pm at Issaquah High Theater.  For parents AND students K-12.
  • Feb, 2017 – speaker John O’Sullivan, author of “Changing the Game”, about how parent’s can best support kids today in the competitive world of sports. Date/time/place TBD.  For parents of K-12.
  • Apr 25, 2017 – speaker Jessica Lahey, author of “Gift of Failure” – How the best parents learn to let go so their children can succeed.   7:00pm at Issaquah High Theater.  This keynote will be preceded by a community book read about a month in advance.  Details coming soon.   For parents of K-12.

Other speakers, topics and dates coming soon.

 

REFLECTIONS

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STAR/SPECIAL EDUCATION
We are rebuilding the Special Education Committee this year. We have a new chairperson and we are looking to connect with Special Education chairs at each school/PTSA to learn what is working and not working and gather consensus on what the committee can best do and provide.
Please check out our new website on the Issaquah Council PTSA page. Our new vanity URL is www.issaquahstar.org. We have just launched a Facebook group so parents and guardians of children who receive Special Services can connect and learn from one another and get support (www.facebook.com/groups/IssaquahSTAR).  Please share this flyer at your schools: FLYER LINK.
We’re looking for volunteers who would like to help plan and execute ideas and programs. Please encourage anyone to connect with Carrie at special-ed@issaquahptsa.org.
VICE PRESIDENTS

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VOLUNTEERS FOR ISSAQUAH SCHOOLS (VIS)
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WEBMASTER/DIRECTORY
  • Directory: Please get your PTA/PTSA directory information in BY OCTOBER 1st.
  • Surveys can be created any time.
  • Calendar: updated as dates are sent. Please include date, time, location, and a contact name with email or phone. Meetings, events, trainings, etc.
Other

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