As our 2009-2010 first semester has come to a close as of today, I couldn't miss this chance to wish all of our wonderful Desert Trails' families a safe, restful, and fun-filled Winter Break!
My heartfelt thanks for all of the goodies and treats delivered to our Office all week long; and please know the high sugar content kept us in good shape for the busy week!! Especially a warm thanks to the Babcock, Francis, Godwin, Piper, Hurley, Ceccarelli, Malvick, Priester, Garcia, Rounds, Mora and Piper families for the huge trays full of homemade cookies! We all feel appreciated and loved. Our hope is to reflect that appreciation and love back to your children each and every day. We have a wonderful school, full of excellent, dedicated teachers...but as I have said before we couldn't do what we do without you. Thank you for your support and sending us your beautiful children each and every day. Happy~Happy Holidays!!! See you January 4, 2010.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Sunday, December 13, 2009
* CONGRATULATIONS *
!CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL SPELLING BEE PARTICIPANTS!
Our 2009-2010 Spelling Bee Participants: Madi B.~Grace B.~Tayler C.~Ryan F.~Braedon H.~Marissa M.~Liam M.~Mady M.~ Matheo M.~Caliegh O. Alternates: Scott C.~Brian G.~Rebekkah L.~Zoe M.~Abby S.
Our 2009-2010 Spelling Bee Winner~ Matheo M. and our Runner Up~ Liam M.
District Spelling Bee will be held in January!!!
Our 2009-2010 Spelling Bee Participants: Madi B.~Grace B.~Tayler C.~Ryan F.~Braedon H.~Marissa M.~Liam M.~Mady M.~ Matheo M.~Caliegh O. Alternates: Scott C.~Brian G.~Rebekkah L.~Zoe M.~Abby S.
Our 2009-2010 Spelling Bee Winner~ Matheo M. and our Runner Up~ Liam M.
District Spelling Bee will be held in January!!!
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Dec. 8, 2009
School Council Parking Lot Blitz...
Thanks to the members of the Desert Trails' School Council as they came to school and shared Tax Credit flyers/information with parents. This was new information for some parents, and a good reminder for others! Our Tax Credit goes to our before and after school enrichment classes, field trip scholarships and much more for our students at Desert Trails.
The January survey is right around the corner. If you have a question you would like the School Council to consider for the survey please email one of our representatives: Parent~Lynn Clark-lynnfclark@cox.net/ Parent~Jeff Gaunt-jeff.gaunt@us.henkel.com/ Teacher~Sue Kinsler-skinsler@pvschoolsnet/ Teacher~Pam Sisserson-psisserson@pvschools.net/ Community~Dina Brown-Armandina.Brown@nau.edu/ Classified~Kim Hall-khall@pvschools.net/
We will need your question before our next School Council meeting-Dec.14th. Thank you!
Mollen Follow-up...
A Follow-up clinic will be held on Dec. 18, 2009. Both the seasonal flu shot and the H1N1 vaccine will be available. The purpose of this Follow up clinic is to provide those students who are 9 years or younger, an opportunity to receive the H1N1 booster vaccine. Registration is available on line at www.flushotusa.com/schools
School clinic hours are 9:00-2:00 Call Mollen clinic for more information at 480.214.2000
Report Cards and a different time-line...
The Paradise Valley Unifed School District reporting system is going away and as of 2010 we will be up and running with a new program, Infinite Campus. Due to this transition all district elementary teachers have been asked to enter their grades into our current system no later than Dec. 18th. This effort will make sure grades are transferred, safe, and ready to go for the report card issue date, January 22. Teachers will be communicating all comments, progress, and student goals with parents at our Parent~Teacher conferences -Jan. 25-28.
Infinite Campus offers a wonderful Parent Portal that you will find to be a supportive resource to keeping in-step with your child's academic progress. More information will follow as soon as the system is up and running.
Thanks to the members of the Desert Trails' School Council as they came to school and shared Tax Credit flyers/information with parents. This was new information for some parents, and a good reminder for others! Our Tax Credit goes to our before and after school enrichment classes, field trip scholarships and much more for our students at Desert Trails.
The January survey is right around the corner. If you have a question you would like the School Council to consider for the survey please email one of our representatives: Parent~Lynn Clark-lynnfclark@cox.net/ Parent~Jeff Gaunt-jeff.gaunt@us.henkel.com/ Teacher~Sue Kinsler-skinsler@pvschoolsnet/ Teacher~Pam Sisserson-psisserson@pvschools.net/ Community~Dina Brown-Armandina.Brown@nau.edu/ Classified~Kim Hall-khall@pvschools.net/
We will need your question before our next School Council meeting-Dec.14th. Thank you!
Mollen Follow-up...
A Follow-up clinic will be held on Dec. 18, 2009. Both the seasonal flu shot and the H1N1 vaccine will be available. The purpose of this Follow up clinic is to provide those students who are 9 years or younger, an opportunity to receive the H1N1 booster vaccine. Registration is available on line at www.flushotusa.com/schools
School clinic hours are 9:00-2:00 Call Mollen clinic for more information at 480.214.2000
Report Cards and a different time-line...
The Paradise Valley Unifed School District reporting system is going away and as of 2010 we will be up and running with a new program, Infinite Campus. Due to this transition all district elementary teachers have been asked to enter their grades into our current system no later than Dec. 18th. This effort will make sure grades are transferred, safe, and ready to go for the report card issue date, January 22. Teachers will be communicating all comments, progress, and student goals with parents at our Parent~Teacher conferences -Jan. 25-28.
Infinite Campus offers a wonderful Parent Portal that you will find to be a supportive resource to keeping in-step with your child's academic progress. More information will follow as soon as the system is up and running.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Dec. 1, 2009
Hola Amigo! After school Spanish classes arrive at Desert Trails! Be watching for the flyer coming home tomorrow and sign your child up! This is another great TAX CREDIT class offered to our Desert Trails' students!
Speaking of TAX CREDIT... this Friday our School Council members will be doing a "parking lot blitz" trying to get the word out about how important your TAX CREDIT is to the students at Desert Trails. Currently the classes we have are: GenYes/Tutoring Club/Homework Club/Sports Club/ Science Club/Spanish Club/ and some other great ones are in the works!! It's a WIN-WIN!!
December Events:
12/3- Gov. Board Meeting 7 p.m.
12/4-Parking Lot Blitz 3 p.m.
12/5-Choir performance PV Mall 4 p.m.
12/11-STAR Citizen lunch with Mrs. Lee
12/11-Spelling Bee 1:30 p.m.
12/14-School Council meeting 7:45 a.m.
12/14-Band concert at Sunset Canyon 6:30 p.m.
12/15-Coffee with the Principal ~ Topic AIMS 8:30 a.m.
12/15-Chorus concert at Desert Trails 6:30 p.m.
12/17-Gov. Board Meeting 7 p.m.
12/18-Mollen Clinic "booster" 9-2
Speaking of TAX CREDIT... this Friday our School Council members will be doing a "parking lot blitz" trying to get the word out about how important your TAX CREDIT is to the students at Desert Trails. Currently the classes we have are: GenYes/Tutoring Club/Homework Club/Sports Club/ Science Club/Spanish Club/ and some other great ones are in the works!! It's a WIN-WIN!!
December Events:
12/3- Gov. Board Meeting 7 p.m.
12/4-Parking Lot Blitz 3 p.m.
12/5-Choir performance PV Mall 4 p.m.
12/11-STAR Citizen lunch with Mrs. Lee
12/11-Spelling Bee 1:30 p.m.
12/14-School Council meeting 7:45 a.m.
12/14-Band concert at Sunset Canyon 6:30 p.m.
12/15-Coffee with the Principal ~ Topic AIMS 8:30 a.m.
12/15-Chorus concert at Desert Trails 6:30 p.m.
12/17-Gov. Board Meeting 7 p.m.
12/18-Mollen Clinic "booster" 9-2
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Happy Thanksgiving! I hope as you gather with family and friends this week you can take a moment, as I will, to count the many blessings we have in this country. Our Desert Trails' families are certainly among mine. Enjoy your holiday!
Mollen Follow-up
A Follow-up clinic will be held on Dec. 18, 2009. Both the seasonal flu shot and the H1N1 vaccine will be available. The purpose of this Follow up clinic is to provide those students who are 9 years or younger, an opportunity to recieve the H1N1 booster vaccine. Registration is available on line at www.flushotusa.com/schools
School clinic hours are 9:00-2:00 Call Mollen clinic for more information at 480.214.2000
On-Line Curriculum
Did you know you can access your child's curriculum on line right from your home? At thinkcentral.com you can access our reading program, and at pearson.com you can access our social studies and science programs. (no cost)
Having these resources at your finger tips will help keep you on the same page with your child as he/she will bring work home and need some additional support from you. Be sure to ask your child's teacher for the passwords to easily access this support. Each grade level does offer a variety of support, but it is well worth your time to check it out!!
January School Survey
Our School Council thought a mid-year school survey would be valuable, but we want to know from you what are some important questions for the survey.
If you have a question that you would like our School Council to consider for the January survey please email one of our parent representatives: Jeff Gaunt at jeff.gaunt@us.henkel.com or Lynn Clark at lynnfclark@cox.net or myself at klee@pvschools.net no later than Dec. 11th.
Be looking for the survey at our January Parent~Teacher Conference time.
Mollen Follow-up
A Follow-up clinic will be held on Dec. 18, 2009. Both the seasonal flu shot and the H1N1 vaccine will be available. The purpose of this Follow up clinic is to provide those students who are 9 years or younger, an opportunity to recieve the H1N1 booster vaccine. Registration is available on line at www.flushotusa.com/schools
School clinic hours are 9:00-2:00 Call Mollen clinic for more information at 480.214.2000
On-Line Curriculum
Did you know you can access your child's curriculum on line right from your home? At thinkcentral.com you can access our reading program, and at pearson.com you can access our social studies and science programs. (no cost)
Having these resources at your finger tips will help keep you on the same page with your child as he/she will bring work home and need some additional support from you. Be sure to ask your child's teacher for the passwords to easily access this support. Each grade level does offer a variety of support, but it is well worth your time to check it out!!
January School Survey
Our School Council thought a mid-year school survey would be valuable, but we want to know from you what are some important questions for the survey.
If you have a question that you would like our School Council to consider for the January survey please email one of our parent representatives: Jeff Gaunt at jeff.gaunt@us.henkel.com or Lynn Clark at lynnfclark@cox.net or myself at klee@pvschools.net no later than Dec. 11th.
Be looking for the survey at our January Parent~Teacher Conference time.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Flu-Vision-Tax Credit-Thank you!
Coming...
On Friday, Nov. 20, Mollen Clinic will be at Desert Trails offering both the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu shot to all Mollen registered students and staff. If you are interested in having your child vaccinated you must go to this website www.FluShotsUSA.com/schools and register your child BEFORE Nov. 20. Also, you may contact Mollen Clinic at #480.214.2000 for further information.
Working together...
Through a collaborative effort the staff and school council members refreshed the Desert Trails' Values, Vision, and Mission statements. We are proud to share them with you.
Values
"We think highly of...."
Children, Achievement, Respect, Kindness, Tolerance, Collaboration, Professional Relationships and Communication
Vision
"Excellence for everyone, whatever it takes"
The Vision of Desert Trails will be to continue as an excelling school featuring embedded technology throughout the learning process. Students will successfully demonstrate 21 Century Skills in a climate where they are challenged appropriately by a rigorous curriculum and taught in a high quality, student-centered learning environment. All adults in the school community will contribute to our students' success through high standards of professionalism, and continuous learning.
Mission
"Success for everyone. Do your best, nothing less"
The Mission of Desert Trails is to assure the highest level of learning for ALL students. To develop life long learners who exhibit self-discipline, global awareness and excel as independent thinkers and high achievers through a supportive partnership of staff, parents, and all community stakeholders.
Motto
Success each day~Success each child
Tax Credit Time $ $ $ PARKING LOT BLITZ $ $ $ Tax Credit Time
To help parents become aware of how valuable Tax Credits are to Desert Trails, on Dec. 4 our School Council members will be doing a PARKING LOT BLITZ. Your council members will be introducing themselves to you and handing you a Tax Credit form and answering any questions you may have about Tax Credit!!! But, in a nut shell....
Do you pay Arizona State Income Taxes? Did you know you can REDIRECT money the State collects, directly to Desert Trails? Write us a check, complete the form, and INCREASE your REFUND! You may qualify to donate up to $400 (married couple filing jointly)! Tax Credit dollars support extracurricular activities such as field trips and clubs. Desert Trails' clubs like Tutoring Club, Homework Club, Science Club, Spanish Club, Reading Support Club, GenYes, Sports Club, and many more are offered at nominal fees because of our Tax Credit donations. Forms are available on our district web site http://cmweb.pvschools.net/siteweb/taxCreditInfo.htm. Get it in before our office closes on December 18th, or make sure it is post marked by December 31, 2009! THANK YOU!!!
Thank you to...
GENISIS Church who currently meets at Desert Trails on Sundays for providing goodies and treats to our teachers during our last in-service day!
Albertson's for providing STARBUCKS coffee for Coffee with the Principal
On Friday, Nov. 20, Mollen Clinic will be at Desert Trails offering both the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu shot to all Mollen registered students and staff. If you are interested in having your child vaccinated you must go to this website www.FluShotsUSA.com/schools and register your child BEFORE Nov. 20. Also, you may contact Mollen Clinic at #480.214.2000 for further information.
Working together...
Through a collaborative effort the staff and school council members refreshed the Desert Trails' Values, Vision, and Mission statements. We are proud to share them with you.
Values
"We think highly of...."
Children, Achievement, Respect, Kindness, Tolerance, Collaboration, Professional Relationships and Communication
Vision
"Excellence for everyone, whatever it takes"
The Vision of Desert Trails will be to continue as an excelling school featuring embedded technology throughout the learning process. Students will successfully demonstrate 21 Century Skills in a climate where they are challenged appropriately by a rigorous curriculum and taught in a high quality, student-centered learning environment. All adults in the school community will contribute to our students' success through high standards of professionalism, and continuous learning.
Mission
"Success for everyone. Do your best, nothing less"
The Mission of Desert Trails is to assure the highest level of learning for ALL students. To develop life long learners who exhibit self-discipline, global awareness and excel as independent thinkers and high achievers through a supportive partnership of staff, parents, and all community stakeholders.
Motto
Success each day~Success each child
Tax Credit Time $ $ $ PARKING LOT BLITZ $ $ $ Tax Credit Time
To help parents become aware of how valuable Tax Credits are to Desert Trails, on Dec. 4 our School Council members will be doing a PARKING LOT BLITZ. Your council members will be introducing themselves to you and handing you a Tax Credit form and answering any questions you may have about Tax Credit!!! But, in a nut shell....
Do you pay Arizona State Income Taxes? Did you know you can REDIRECT money the State collects, directly to Desert Trails? Write us a check, complete the form, and INCREASE your REFUND! You may qualify to donate up to $400 (married couple filing jointly)! Tax Credit dollars support extracurricular activities such as field trips and clubs. Desert Trails' clubs like Tutoring Club, Homework Club, Science Club, Spanish Club, Reading Support Club, GenYes, Sports Club, and many more are offered at nominal fees because of our Tax Credit donations. Forms are available on our district web site http://cmweb.pvschools.net/siteweb/taxCreditInfo.htm. Get it in before our office closes on December 18th, or make sure it is post marked by December 31, 2009! THANK YOU!!!
Thank you to...
GENISIS Church who currently meets at Desert Trails on Sundays for providing goodies and treats to our teachers during our last in-service day!
Albertson's for providing STARBUCKS coffee for Coffee with the Principal
Friday, November 6, 2009
M & O Override Passes
THANK YOU P.V. voters for voting YES for Paradise Valley Students!!! Your demonstration of support boosts all of our efforts in continuing to provide an excellent education to ALL Paradise Valley Students. We're not out of the woods just yet, as our legislatures continue to debate how to fund education. We appreciate your support!
Reminders for Nov. 9-13:
11/9 Monday= Full day of school
11/10 Tuesday= Students dismissed at 12:30
11/11 Wednesday= No School Veteran's Day Recess
11/12 Thursday= Full day of school
11/13 Friday= Fully day of school
Have you ever wondered what goes on during those half days when students are gone? This year our teachers have been focusing on becoming an effective, professional learning community. This coming Tuesday our teachers will complete session 4 of The Power of Professional Learning Communities at Work by Rick DeFour. Using information from common formative assessments to set goals and to monitor progress; creating common assessments, looking at student data as a team, and focusing on results are just a some of our topics for this Tuesday. We could not have this vital professional time without your support. Thank you for supporting and protecting this time for teachers to sharpen their skills, learn some new ones, and work collaboratively together.
Reminders for Nov. 9-13:
11/9 Monday= Full day of school
11/10 Tuesday= Students dismissed at 12:30
11/11 Wednesday= No School Veteran's Day Recess
11/12 Thursday= Full day of school
11/13 Friday= Fully day of school
Have you ever wondered what goes on during those half days when students are gone? This year our teachers have been focusing on becoming an effective, professional learning community. This coming Tuesday our teachers will complete session 4 of The Power of Professional Learning Communities at Work by Rick DeFour. Using information from common formative assessments to set goals and to monitor progress; creating common assessments, looking at student data as a team, and focusing on results are just a some of our topics for this Tuesday. We could not have this vital professional time without your support. Thank you for supporting and protecting this time for teachers to sharpen their skills, learn some new ones, and work collaboratively together.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
November 4 update:
Flu Shots!
On Friday, Nov. 20, Mollen Clinic will be at Desert Trails offering both the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu shot to all Mollen registered students and staff. If you are interested in having your child vaccinated you must go to this website www.FluShotsUSA.com/schools and register your child BEFORE Nov. 20. Also, you may contact Mollen Clinic at #480.214.2000 for further information.
SPEAK-UP 2009! Paradise Valley has obtained a unique perspective from over 13,000 students annually (k-12), 670 teachers (K-12) and 70 administrators (K-12) about the direction and trends in technology in education (school and home). We've been able to note the significant ownership of cell and smart phones from 3rd grade and up, and the desire/demand by our teachers to increase online professional development. This year Paradise Valley would like to expand this perspective by asking parents to take the SPEAK-Up survey. Your participation will allow us valuable insight for continual improvement. The survey can be take at the following link http://www.tomorrow.org/speakup/index.html once there look for Take Survey and follow the directions. The password is "future." The window closes Dec. 18. Thank you for speaking up!!
CONGRATULATIONS to our Kindness Committee chaired by Mrs. Toenjes, for receiving a matching Character Education grant!!! Mrs. Toenjes and Mrs. Moss, a parent who serves on the Kindness committee, worked to gather data and complete the grant application. This grant will provide financial support for the 2010 Kindness Retreat coming this spring!!!
PLAY TIME AT SCHOOL?~ That's right. At Desert Trails we understand children need to play! The best time is at their lunch recess in the sunshine and fresh air. So the Kindness committee is asking any interested parents to come to school and play!! The turn out has been great with parents volunteering to host a walking club, a chalk drawing contest, and many other fun activities offered by you, our fantastic parents. The students love it, and we appreciate it!!!
Anyone interested please contact Mrs. Toenjes at ktoenjes@pvschools.net Thank you!
On Friday, Nov. 20, Mollen Clinic will be at Desert Trails offering both the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu shot to all Mollen registered students and staff. If you are interested in having your child vaccinated you must go to this website www.FluShotsUSA.com/schools and register your child BEFORE Nov. 20. Also, you may contact Mollen Clinic at #480.214.2000 for further information.
SPEAK-UP 2009! Paradise Valley has obtained a unique perspective from over 13,000 students annually (k-12), 670 teachers (K-12) and 70 administrators (K-12) about the direction and trends in technology in education (school and home). We've been able to note the significant ownership of cell and smart phones from 3rd grade and up, and the desire/demand by our teachers to increase online professional development. This year Paradise Valley would like to expand this perspective by asking parents to take the SPEAK-Up survey. Your participation will allow us valuable insight for continual improvement. The survey can be take at the following link http://www.tomorrow.org/speakup/index.html once there look for Take Survey and follow the directions. The password is "future." The window closes Dec. 18. Thank you for speaking up!!
CONGRATULATIONS to our Kindness Committee chaired by Mrs. Toenjes, for receiving a matching Character Education grant!!! Mrs. Toenjes and Mrs. Moss, a parent who serves on the Kindness committee, worked to gather data and complete the grant application. This grant will provide financial support for the 2010 Kindness Retreat coming this spring!!!
PLAY TIME AT SCHOOL?~ That's right. At Desert Trails we understand children need to play! The best time is at their lunch recess in the sunshine and fresh air. So the Kindness committee is asking any interested parents to come to school and play!! The turn out has been great with parents volunteering to host a walking club, a chalk drawing contest, and many other fun activities offered by you, our fantastic parents. The students love it, and we appreciate it!!!
Anyone interested please contact Mrs. Toenjes at ktoenjes@pvschools.net Thank you!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
This day will go down in history at Desert Trails
On Friday, Oct. 23 we celebrated taking a stand and saying No To Drugs by waving in the landing of the DEA helicopter! A Desert Trails first!!!
Students arrived out back around 9:20 and a few minutes later the helicopter could be seen flying overhead showcasing the arrival. The students brought their RED RIBBON hands to wave the helicopter to a safe landing in the Desert Trails playground!!! Once down DEA Special Agent Jeff, and Scottsdale Police Officer, Sargent Clark, exited the helicopter to the cheers of over 500 students, staff, and parents!!! The morning continued with Pearl, the drug dog, Special Agent Owens speaking to our students about good choices, and Special Agent Casey and Special Agent Jeff giving a tour of the helicopter!!!! Thank you to the Owens family for making the connections, and Thank you to PTO for putting this all together for our school!!! It was FANTASTIC~our students are still talking about this special morning!!!
Parent Conferences are going great! It has been wonderful to see you this week as you are coming to hear about all the things your child is accomplishing so far this year. The smiles as families are leaving is a great sign that communication is happening and expectations are being met!! Thank you for supporting your child on their educational journey!
Thank you for supporting us as we join with you to provide the best learning environment for ALL of our children at Desert Trails. Each one is worth it and so much more!!! Thank you for sending us your children each and every day. They are very precious to us!!!
November Events
11/5 Gov. Board Meeting 7pm
11/10 Early Release~Students dismissed at 12:30
11/11 No School
11/13 Lunch with Mrs. Lee @ Mimi's Cafe Star Citizen
11/16 School Council 7:45am
11/19 Student Council meeting 11:45
11/19 Gov. Board meeting 7pm
11/24 Coffee with the Principal 8:30am
11/26 & 11/27 Thanksgiving break
Tax Credit? What is that?
Click below for more informtion:
http://cmweb.pvschools.net/siteweb/taxCreditInfo.htm
Arizona tax law (ARS 43-1089.01) allows taxpayers a credit for contributions made or fees paid to a public school for support of extracurricular activities or character education (as defined in ARS 15-719). The credit is equal to the amount contributed or the amount of fees paid. However, the credit cannot exceed $200 for single taxpayers or heads of household. For married taxpayers who file a joint return, the credit cannot exceed $400. If married taxpayers file separate returns, each spouse may claim 1/2 of the credit that would have been allowed on a joint return.
Extracurricular activities such as sports, band, speech and debate or overnight field trips are generally not fully funded by school districts. These programs depend on fees from students. Click on the link provided to download the brochure to read about this valuable program and how you can participate. The Arizona Department of Revenue has additional information. Donations must be postmarked by midnight December 31 to be eligible for the current year.
Students arrived out back around 9:20 and a few minutes later the helicopter could be seen flying overhead showcasing the arrival. The students brought their RED RIBBON hands to wave the helicopter to a safe landing in the Desert Trails playground!!! Once down DEA Special Agent Jeff, and Scottsdale Police Officer, Sargent Clark, exited the helicopter to the cheers of over 500 students, staff, and parents!!! The morning continued with Pearl, the drug dog, Special Agent Owens speaking to our students about good choices, and Special Agent Casey and Special Agent Jeff giving a tour of the helicopter!!!! Thank you to the Owens family for making the connections, and Thank you to PTO for putting this all together for our school!!! It was FANTASTIC~our students are still talking about this special morning!!!
Parent Conferences are going great! It has been wonderful to see you this week as you are coming to hear about all the things your child is accomplishing so far this year. The smiles as families are leaving is a great sign that communication is happening and expectations are being met!! Thank you for supporting your child on their educational journey!
Thank you for supporting us as we join with you to provide the best learning environment for ALL of our children at Desert Trails. Each one is worth it and so much more!!! Thank you for sending us your children each and every day. They are very precious to us!!!
November Events
11/5 Gov. Board Meeting 7pm
11/10 Early Release~Students dismissed at 12:30
11/11 No School
11/13 Lunch with Mrs. Lee @ Mimi's Cafe Star Citizen
11/16 School Council 7:45am
11/19 Student Council meeting 11:45
11/19 Gov. Board meeting 7pm
11/24 Coffee with the Principal 8:30am
11/26 & 11/27 Thanksgiving break
Tax Credit? What is that?
Click below for more informtion:
http://cmweb.pvschools.net/siteweb/taxCreditInfo.htm
Arizona tax law (ARS 43-1089.01) allows taxpayers a credit for contributions made or fees paid to a public school for support of extracurricular activities or character education (as defined in ARS 15-719). The credit is equal to the amount contributed or the amount of fees paid. However, the credit cannot exceed $200 for single taxpayers or heads of household. For married taxpayers who file a joint return, the credit cannot exceed $400. If married taxpayers file separate returns, each spouse may claim 1/2 of the credit that would have been allowed on a joint return.
Extracurricular activities such as sports, band, speech and debate or overnight field trips are generally not fully funded by school districts. These programs depend on fees from students. Click on the link provided to download the brochure to read about this valuable program and how you can participate. The Arizona Department of Revenue has additional information. Donations must be postmarked by midnight December 31 to be eligible for the current year.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Facilities Improvement Ideas & Input
School Council would like to hear from you. We have the chance to gather your ideas and see what things around Desert Trails you would like to see updated or improved. Just a few of our ideas received: update lighting inside & outside, playground removal of sand to replace with soft turf, more and updated water fountains, smart toilets, parking lot resealed and painted. I have until the end of this week to continue to solicit your ideas. Thanks to PTO who also put out the word. Please email your parent representatives with your ideas, thoughts, and input:
Jeff Gaunt: jeff.gaunt@us.henkel.com and/or Lynn Clark: lynnfclark@cox.net
Open Enrollment enables Arizona students to attend public elementary schools (K-8) or high schools outside their attendance areas or their districts in an effort to give them a choice in school selection. Applications for Open Enrollment in the Paradise Valley Unified School District are accepted at the District Administrative Center Oct. 1 - December 1 each year, and all other times for out-of-district students at the schools- if the school is determined to have capacity for additional students by the receiving school administrator.
Red Ribbon Week has started off in the Red!!! Students and Staff wore red today to set the week in motion. Please see the plan for the remaining part of this week:
Tuesday: Wear your favorite team jersey ~ Team up against drugs!
Wednesday: Wear Red-White and Blue~ United we Stand against drugs!
Thursday: Wear your shirt backwards ~ Back away from drugs!
Friday: Wear your Desert Trails T-shirt to show your school spirit!
We will have the DEA helicopter landing Friday around 9:30 and you are more than welcome to join us!!! Thanks to Coach E. for all of his work putting this together!
Oct. 26-29 = Parent~Teacher Conferences and confirmations are coming home now.
Out late night is Tuesday, Oct. 27. We all look forward to seeing you and sharing with you the wonderful achievements your child has accomplished!
Tax Credit opportunities are coming soon! Please visit http://cmweb.pvschools.net/siteweb/taxCreditinfo.htm
for a brochure and more information on how giving your donation is a win-win for you and Desert Trails' students. Current enrichment classes being offered are Tutoring, Homework, GenYes, and Sports Club. Coming soon classes are: Mad Scientist, Reading Robin, and starting in January an Art class. I am attempting to find a qualified teacher for offering our students Spanish, as I believe this would be an excellent avenue for enrichment. If you or someone you know can teach Spanish, please contact me!!! With more Tax Credit we can offer our students more opportunities, but we need you!
Saturday, Oct. 24 5:00-7:00 please join us for Pizza in the Park. This is such a fun community event. Pizza, Kettle Corn, will be available and a movie on the playground for all to enjoy!
Thanks to the Rounds family for their generous support, and a thank you goes out to Millie Stevenson for all of her hard work putting this event together!! We will look for you and bring a lawn chair!!!
Jeff Gaunt: jeff.gaunt@us.henkel.com and/or Lynn Clark: lynnfclark@cox.net
Open Enrollment enables Arizona students to attend public elementary schools (K-8) or high schools outside their attendance areas or their districts in an effort to give them a choice in school selection. Applications for Open Enrollment in the Paradise Valley Unified School District are accepted at the District Administrative Center Oct. 1 - December 1 each year, and all other times for out-of-district students at the schools- if the school is determined to have capacity for additional students by the receiving school administrator.
Red Ribbon Week has started off in the Red!!! Students and Staff wore red today to set the week in motion. Please see the plan for the remaining part of this week:
Tuesday: Wear your favorite team jersey ~ Team up against drugs!
Wednesday: Wear Red-White and Blue~ United we Stand against drugs!
Thursday: Wear your shirt backwards ~ Back away from drugs!
Friday: Wear your Desert Trails T-shirt to show your school spirit!
We will have the DEA helicopter landing Friday around 9:30 and you are more than welcome to join us!!! Thanks to Coach E. for all of his work putting this together!
Oct. 26-29 = Parent~Teacher Conferences and confirmations are coming home now.
Out late night is Tuesday, Oct. 27. We all look forward to seeing you and sharing with you the wonderful achievements your child has accomplished!
Tax Credit opportunities are coming soon! Please visit http://cmweb.pvschools.net/siteweb/taxCreditinfo.htm
for a brochure and more information on how giving your donation is a win-win for you and Desert Trails' students. Current enrichment classes being offered are Tutoring, Homework, GenYes, and Sports Club. Coming soon classes are: Mad Scientist, Reading Robin, and starting in January an Art class. I am attempting to find a qualified teacher for offering our students Spanish, as I believe this would be an excellent avenue for enrichment. If you or someone you know can teach Spanish, please contact me!!! With more Tax Credit we can offer our students more opportunities, but we need you!
Saturday, Oct. 24 5:00-7:00 please join us for Pizza in the Park. This is such a fun community event. Pizza, Kettle Corn, will be available and a movie on the playground for all to enjoy!
Thanks to the Rounds family for their generous support, and a thank you goes out to Millie Stevenson for all of her hard work putting this event together!! We will look for you and bring a lawn chair!!!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Mid month update: Congratulations to our new Student Council officers- Jake W. President,
Nick M. Vice President, Brielle D. Secretary, and Gianna P. Treasurer. Also, congratulations go out to all of those who ran for an office. Preparing the speech, and giving the speech took a huge amount of determination and self confidence. I am proud of all students who demonstrated the desire to represent Desert Trails!! Thank you!~
Parent-Teacher Conferences will be here before we know it. Please mark these dates on your calendar: Oct. 26-29 and our late night will be Tuesday, Oct. 27. You should have already received the information requesting your prime date and time to meet. We look forward to seeing you and sharing your child's progress with you.
Grading continues to be a focus this year as we move forward in authentic grades and a more accurate grading system. From our book study that several Desert Trails' teachers are involved with this year I would like to share with you some current research. In A Repair Kit for Broken Grades, by Ken O'Conner, we see in chapter 1 the overall shift in how mixing behavior with academics can/will give us distorted achievement. As a positive response to this research, we have now separated behavior from knowledge and reflected that on our report card. We also are making the transistion from reducing marks for work submitted late, or not submitted at all to a more supportive stance where we now are offering students to make the work up or get the work done while at school. Perhaps the student will miss recess to get the work finished, but the important step is to provide support in having the student complete the work and gain the information.
In chapter 2, we reflected on what should grades tell us about students? We discussed the following: Grades should tell us what things a student knows and can do; Whether they have improved during a period of time; What are their strengths;What level their work is at; Whether they are ready to move on; Whether they've reached a standard and a few more factors. In chapter 3 & 4 we will look at low quality evidence and grading calculations.
As we work through these "fixes" for reporting grades, we encourage a conversation between parents and teachers!
School Council would like to hear from you! Please feel free to email the following representatives for any input, especially Tax Credit!
Parent: Lynn Clark at lynnfclark@cox.net --- Parent: Jeff Gaunt at jeff.gaunt@us.henkel.com
and our Community Representative: Armandina Brown at armandina.brown@nau.edu
Nick M. Vice President, Brielle D. Secretary, and Gianna P. Treasurer. Also, congratulations go out to all of those who ran for an office. Preparing the speech, and giving the speech took a huge amount of determination and self confidence. I am proud of all students who demonstrated the desire to represent Desert Trails!! Thank you!~
Parent-Teacher Conferences will be here before we know it. Please mark these dates on your calendar: Oct. 26-29 and our late night will be Tuesday, Oct. 27. You should have already received the information requesting your prime date and time to meet. We look forward to seeing you and sharing your child's progress with you.
Grading continues to be a focus this year as we move forward in authentic grades and a more accurate grading system. From our book study that several Desert Trails' teachers are involved with this year I would like to share with you some current research. In A Repair Kit for Broken Grades, by Ken O'Conner, we see in chapter 1 the overall shift in how mixing behavior with academics can/will give us distorted achievement. As a positive response to this research, we have now separated behavior from knowledge and reflected that on our report card. We also are making the transistion from reducing marks for work submitted late, or not submitted at all to a more supportive stance where we now are offering students to make the work up or get the work done while at school. Perhaps the student will miss recess to get the work finished, but the important step is to provide support in having the student complete the work and gain the information.
In chapter 2, we reflected on what should grades tell us about students? We discussed the following: Grades should tell us what things a student knows and can do; Whether they have improved during a period of time; What are their strengths;What level their work is at; Whether they are ready to move on; Whether they've reached a standard and a few more factors. In chapter 3 & 4 we will look at low quality evidence and grading calculations.
As we work through these "fixes" for reporting grades, we encourage a conversation between parents and teachers!
School Council would like to hear from you! Please feel free to email the following representatives for any input, especially Tax Credit!
Parent: Lynn Clark at lynnfclark@cox.net --- Parent: Jeff Gaunt at jeff.gaunt@us.henkel.com
and our Community Representative: Armandina Brown at armandina.brown@nau.edu
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
October Connection
Two of my favorite October things: Parent~Teacher conferences & cooler weather!
Mark your calendar Oct. 26-29 for our first 09-10 Parent-Teacher conferences. Communications will be coming home soon seeking your choice of day and time! This is always a wonderful time for teachers to share student progress, goals, and showcase student work!!!
Authentic grading continues to be a focus as we work through Ken O'Conner's book "Repair Kit for Broken Grades." As I mentioned at the PTO meeting, I will be sharing our study with parents via the monthly eNews. Our November eNews will launch the first online parent~staff book study. Currently Desert Trails is not grading homework and we have eliminated zero. We are allowing students to make up any incomplete work, missed work or late work. Grades will not be reduced due to any of these "behaviors" but the knowledge demonstrated is what will be graded. Be watching and learn along with us!
October events:
Oct. 1 Governing Board meeting 7 pm
Oct. 2 Student Council speeches
Oct. 9 STAR Citizen lunch with Mrs. Lee at Mimi's Cafe 11:30
Oct. 12 No school~K-12 Recess
Oct. 14 UPC meeting 8:30
Oct. 15 Governing Board meeting 7 pm
Oct. 19 School Council meeting 7:45 am
Oct. 19 Red Ribbon Week
Oct. 23 DEA helicopter fly in
Oct. 24 PTO~ Pizza in the Park
Oct. 26-29 Parent Teacher Conference Week
Oct. 28& 29 12:30 dismissal
Oct. 30 No School~ K-8 Recess
School Council Bites
At the last School Council meeting some of the discussion focused on spreading the word about Tax Credit! Using our phone blast, teachers generating ideas for new classes, setting a goal for this year and many more ideas were shared. The Council is seeking input as to what parents would like to see offered before or after school! Please email me with your ideas! Another item School Council is seeking input is for our school grounds improvement. The district is gathering data to see where and what the greatest needs are surrounding the issue of maintenance. If you know of something on our campus that needs to be replaced or updated, please email me your input. The Council also established the 2009-2010 meeting dates: 10/19-11/16-12/14-1/11-2/8-3/15-4/19-5/17
Also, Mollen Health clinic will be at Desert Trails offering the flu and swine flu shots to students. Dates and permission slips will be coming home soon. Next meeting the Council will continue Tax Credit & school improvement ideas! For further information check out our School Council page on our school website @ http://cmweb.pvschools.net/dtesweb/
Red Ribbon Week
This year Desert Trails' students will have a thrilling and exciting opportunity to watch not only the arrival of a DEA helicopter, but also the landing!!! That's right, the DEA helicopter will land in the Desert Trails' playground. The engine will be shut off, and the DEA agents will emerge! Students will then be able to walk down to the playground and around the helicopter. Thanks to a Desert Trails' parent with great connections and our wonderful PTO, this will be a great day for our students!!! Permission slips will be coming home soon.
After School Enrichment Classes
Are you looking for extra academic support for your child? Desert Trails offers after school Tutoring and Homework Club. Perhaps you are looking to keep your child active?
Take a look at the brand new class offered by Coach E. ~
First Semester Activities
1st-6th Grade Boys and Girls Basketball
1st-6th Grade Boys and Girls Cross Country Activities
Get involved in an outstanding opportunity for grades 4-6 boys and girls to learn great fundamental skills such as running, passing, catching, agility, teamwork, and strategy. This is a chance to enhance and showcase your skills, while developing your level of physical fitness. The continual movement will strengthen your aerobic capacity without realizing how much movement is occurring. Most importantly, you will have fun while learning. We have 40 spots open for this activity but they will fill up rapidly. Signup quickly to secure your spot!! To be eligible, please return the Parent Permission and Medical Release form to Coach E. before the deadline of 10-9-09. The fee is $50.00, which is non-refundable. Check or cash is acceptable.
Important Dates and Times to Remember:
Last day to return paperwork is 10-9-09
Scheduled days are Tuesdays and Thursdays
Times are from 3:00 – 4:00
Students MUST be picked up by 3:55 OR PROMPTLY at 4:00
Activity dates for Basketball are 10/13, 10/15, 10/50, 10/22, 10/27, 11/3, 11/5.
Activity dates for Cross Country are 11/17, 11/19, 11/24, 12/1, 12/8, 12/15, 12/17.
School Office hours 8:00-4:00 Phone # 602.449.4100 Attendance # 602.449.4001
Desert Trails Elementary
4315 E. Cashman Dr. Phoenix, Az 85050
Paradise Valley Unified School District
Mark your calendar Oct. 26-29 for our first 09-10 Parent-Teacher conferences. Communications will be coming home soon seeking your choice of day and time! This is always a wonderful time for teachers to share student progress, goals, and showcase student work!!!
Authentic grading continues to be a focus as we work through Ken O'Conner's book "Repair Kit for Broken Grades." As I mentioned at the PTO meeting, I will be sharing our study with parents via the monthly eNews. Our November eNews will launch the first online parent~staff book study. Currently Desert Trails is not grading homework and we have eliminated zero. We are allowing students to make up any incomplete work, missed work or late work. Grades will not be reduced due to any of these "behaviors" but the knowledge demonstrated is what will be graded. Be watching and learn along with us!
October events:
Oct. 1 Governing Board meeting 7 pm
Oct. 2 Student Council speeches
Oct. 9 STAR Citizen lunch with Mrs. Lee at Mimi's Cafe 11:30
Oct. 12 No school~K-12 Recess
Oct. 14 UPC meeting 8:30
Oct. 15 Governing Board meeting 7 pm
Oct. 19 School Council meeting 7:45 am
Oct. 19 Red Ribbon Week
Oct. 23 DEA helicopter fly in
Oct. 24 PTO~ Pizza in the Park
Oct. 26-29 Parent Teacher Conference Week
Oct. 28& 29 12:30 dismissal
Oct. 30 No School~ K-8 Recess
School Council Bites
At the last School Council meeting some of the discussion focused on spreading the word about Tax Credit! Using our phone blast, teachers generating ideas for new classes, setting a goal for this year and many more ideas were shared. The Council is seeking input as to what parents would like to see offered before or after school! Please email me with your ideas! Another item School Council is seeking input is for our school grounds improvement. The district is gathering data to see where and what the greatest needs are surrounding the issue of maintenance. If you know of something on our campus that needs to be replaced or updated, please email me your input. The Council also established the 2009-2010 meeting dates: 10/19-11/16-12/14-1/11-2/8-3/15-4/19-5/17
Also, Mollen Health clinic will be at Desert Trails offering the flu and swine flu shots to students. Dates and permission slips will be coming home soon. Next meeting the Council will continue Tax Credit & school improvement ideas! For further information check out our School Council page on our school website @ http://cmweb.pvschools.net/dtesweb/
Red Ribbon Week
This year Desert Trails' students will have a thrilling and exciting opportunity to watch not only the arrival of a DEA helicopter, but also the landing!!! That's right, the DEA helicopter will land in the Desert Trails' playground. The engine will be shut off, and the DEA agents will emerge! Students will then be able to walk down to the playground and around the helicopter. Thanks to a Desert Trails' parent with great connections and our wonderful PTO, this will be a great day for our students!!! Permission slips will be coming home soon.
After School Enrichment Classes
Are you looking for extra academic support for your child? Desert Trails offers after school Tutoring and Homework Club. Perhaps you are looking to keep your child active?
Take a look at the brand new class offered by Coach E. ~
First Semester Activities
1st-6th Grade Boys and Girls Basketball
1st-6th Grade Boys and Girls Cross Country Activities
Get involved in an outstanding opportunity for grades 4-6 boys and girls to learn great fundamental skills such as running, passing, catching, agility, teamwork, and strategy. This is a chance to enhance and showcase your skills, while developing your level of physical fitness. The continual movement will strengthen your aerobic capacity without realizing how much movement is occurring. Most importantly, you will have fun while learning. We have 40 spots open for this activity but they will fill up rapidly. Signup quickly to secure your spot!! To be eligible, please return the Parent Permission and Medical Release form to Coach E. before the deadline of 10-9-09. The fee is $50.00, which is non-refundable. Check or cash is acceptable.
Important Dates and Times to Remember:
Last day to return paperwork is 10-9-09
Scheduled days are Tuesdays and Thursdays
Times are from 3:00 – 4:00
Students MUST be picked up by 3:55 OR PROMPTLY at 4:00
Activity dates for Basketball are 10/13, 10/15, 10/50, 10/22, 10/27, 11/3, 11/5.
Activity dates for Cross Country are 11/17, 11/19, 11/24, 12/1, 12/8, 12/15, 12/17.
School Office hours 8:00-4:00 Phone # 602.449.4100 Attendance # 602.449.4001
Desert Trails Elementary
4315 E. Cashman Dr. Phoenix, Az 85050
Paradise Valley Unified School District
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
WIn~Win with Tax Credit
The word is getting out! You can give to Desert Trails' enrichment classes AND give yourself a tax credit!!! That's right- a family can give up to $400 and a single can give up to $200. Desert Trails will then give you a tax receipt and you deduct the amount you gave right on your tax form!!!
Some of the excellent enrichment classes currently taking place are Tutoring Club, Homework Club, our Technology Club~ GenYes, and a new after school Sports program is starting soon!! Our tax credits also assist students in financial need so they can attend Catalina and Grand Canyon field trips with their classmates!!! If you would like to see a new enrichment class offered at Desert Trails please drop me an email and let me know! The Tax Credit form will be coming home soon, and for easy access I will post it on our school website for you to print.
Please pass this super benefit on to grandparents, neighbors, and business partners!! Everyone can use a tax break and Desert Trails will use these funds to enrich our student's learning journey!!! Thank you for your partnership!
Some of the excellent enrichment classes currently taking place are Tutoring Club, Homework Club, our Technology Club~ GenYes, and a new after school Sports program is starting soon!! Our tax credits also assist students in financial need so they can attend Catalina and Grand Canyon field trips with their classmates!!! If you would like to see a new enrichment class offered at Desert Trails please drop me an email and let me know! The Tax Credit form will be coming home soon, and for easy access I will post it on our school website for you to print.
Please pass this super benefit on to grandparents, neighbors, and business partners!! Everyone can use a tax break and Desert Trails will use these funds to enrich our student's learning journey!!! Thank you for your partnership!
Monday, September 14, 2009
PTO & Up Coming Events
WOW! What a great turn out for the PTO General meeting! Thank you for your participation and attendance. PTO had a jam packed, high information night planned just for you!
V-Reps~ Thanks to all parents who joined us for the reading training. This is a K-6 reading support program provided by parent volunteers. If you would like to be a part of our team you still can be! Simply contact Mrs. Bier at school and she will provide you with the information necessary.
Here are some upcoming events you need to know about:
Sept. 15 Early Release Students dismissed at 12:30
Sept. 21 Picture Day! SMILE!
Sept. 28 No School K-12 Recess
Sept. 29 Catalina 6th grade Parent night
Also, be sure to check out our current enrichment classes offered at Desert Trails:
GenYes
Piano & Keyboarding
All Star Athletes
Gymnastics
SW Martial Arts
Metz Tennis
Cheer
V-Reps~ Thanks to all parents who joined us for the reading training. This is a K-6 reading support program provided by parent volunteers. If you would like to be a part of our team you still can be! Simply contact Mrs. Bier at school and she will provide you with the information necessary.
Here are some upcoming events you need to know about:
Sept. 15 Early Release Students dismissed at 12:30
Sept. 21 Picture Day! SMILE!
Sept. 28 No School K-12 Recess
Sept. 29 Catalina 6th grade Parent night
Also, be sure to check out our current enrichment classes offered at Desert Trails:
GenYes
Piano & Keyboarding
All Star Athletes
Gymnastics
SW Martial Arts
Metz Tennis
Cheer
Saturday, September 12, 2009
School Council Off & Working!
Our first 2009-2010 School Council meeting was held the first week of school and we are working hard to do what is best for kids! At this meeting Tax Credits were approved by the Council which means our Tutoring program, Homework Club, GenYes, and many more before and after school enrichment activities will be starting soon! Also, along with the approval of Tax Credits, the Council approved our 6th graders going to Catalina and our 4th graders going to the Grand Canyon. The Council was very interested in the new V-Rep reading training and they supported that direction as well.
The Council will be gathering input from teachers, parents, and community members on how to best educate our community about Tax Credits. If you have any ideas or suggestions on how to get the word out, please see one of your representatives or go to our school site, click on School Council and you will find a direct email link. Your input is important and we appreciate it.
Also, please know all agendas and minutes are posted on our school site @ http://cmweb.pvschools.net/dtesweb/
The Council will be gathering input from teachers, parents, and community members on how to best educate our community about Tax Credits. If you have any ideas or suggestions on how to get the word out, please see one of your representatives or go to our school site, click on School Council and you will find a direct email link. Your input is important and we appreciate it.
Also, please know all agendas and minutes are posted on our school site @ http://cmweb.pvschools.net/dtesweb/
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
H1N1 or "Swine" Flu
Understandably we all have concerns with what we are hearing in the news regarding the upcoming Flu season. Here is what we know and are doing at this time:
This novel flu is still circulating in Arizona and it appears that it is affecting our younger population at a disproportionally higher rate than our normal “seasonal” flu. The Maricopa County Department of Public Health reports that more than half of those hospitalized have been school or per-school aged children, and confirms one pediatric death this summer in our county attributed to novel H1N1. Many more cases are possible this fall. Because of this, we all need to become much more vigilant in our efforts to keep our school community and your home environment flu-free.
1.) Teach your kids good hygiene (we will be doing the same at school): This means teaching them how to cover coughs/sneezes with their elbows, good hand washing habits and to keep their hands away from their face.
2.) Keep your kids home when they are sick: When a child comes to school sick, he/she can infect classmates at amazing rates. If too many kids are sick at school, we may be required to implement extreme measures such as closing the school, which has a negative effect on all of us.
3.) Consider seasonal flu vaccine: Although there won’t be a vaccine for the novel flu until later this fall, our regular seasonal flu vaccine should be available in September. The more students (and staff) who are vaccinated with seasonal flu vaccine, the better chance we have of keeping this virus from jumping from child to child in our school and then bringing it home to your family. If your primary care doctor does not have flu vaccine, contact Community Information and Referral at 602-263-8856 for vaccine locations.
We are monitoring both the novel and seasonal flu closely and will be reporting abnormal absentee rates in our school to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health. However, we cannot stress enough that it will be our parents who will ultimately make the largest impact on the health of our school.
Please contact Nurse Trudy should you need further information.
Thank you,
This novel flu is still circulating in Arizona and it appears that it is affecting our younger population at a disproportionally higher rate than our normal “seasonal” flu. The Maricopa County Department of Public Health reports that more than half of those hospitalized have been school or per-school aged children, and confirms one pediatric death this summer in our county attributed to novel H1N1. Many more cases are possible this fall. Because of this, we all need to become much more vigilant in our efforts to keep our school community and your home environment flu-free.
1.) Teach your kids good hygiene (we will be doing the same at school): This means teaching them how to cover coughs/sneezes with their elbows, good hand washing habits and to keep their hands away from their face.
2.) Keep your kids home when they are sick: When a child comes to school sick, he/she can infect classmates at amazing rates. If too many kids are sick at school, we may be required to implement extreme measures such as closing the school, which has a negative effect on all of us.
3.) Consider seasonal flu vaccine: Although there won’t be a vaccine for the novel flu until later this fall, our regular seasonal flu vaccine should be available in September. The more students (and staff) who are vaccinated with seasonal flu vaccine, the better chance we have of keeping this virus from jumping from child to child in our school and then bringing it home to your family. If your primary care doctor does not have flu vaccine, contact Community Information and Referral at 602-263-8856 for vaccine locations.
We are monitoring both the novel and seasonal flu closely and will be reporting abnormal absentee rates in our school to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health. However, we cannot stress enough that it will be our parents who will ultimately make the largest impact on the health of our school.
Please contact Nurse Trudy should you need further information.
Thank you,
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Parent Orientation Night
Join us August 26 for our 2009-2010 Parent Orientation Night!
Kindergarten & 5th grade & 6th grade = 5:30-6:00
1st grade & 2nd grade = 6:10-6:40
3rd grade & 4th grade = 6:50-7:20
Special Areas, Reading, Speech, Resource, Honors = 6:00-7:00
All teachers will be presenting in their classrooms.
We look forward to seeing you!
Kindergarten & 5th grade & 6th grade = 5:30-6:00
1st grade & 2nd grade = 6:10-6:40
3rd grade & 4th grade = 6:50-7:20
Special Areas, Reading, Speech, Resource, Honors = 6:00-7:00
All teachers will be presenting in their classrooms.
We look forward to seeing you!
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Desert Trails 2008-2009 "EXCELLING"
"The AZ Learns accountability system is the best way to measure a schools performance from year to year, and gives parents a snapshot as to how their school compares with other schools around the state," said Arizona Superindent of Public Instruction Tom Horne.
Meanwhile, 74 percent of Arizona schools made "adequate yearly progress" under the federal No Child Left Behind system.
The components for evaluating schools in determining their annual AZ Learns profiles are the following: AIMS/Dual Purpose Assessment (DPA); Measure of Academic Progress; Graduation/Dropout rates (HS); and the reclassification of ELL students.
Arizona Schools Superintendent Tom Horne stated, "We have a record number of schools excelling this year, going from 17% in 2008 to 21% excelling in 2009. We also are seeing an increase in the number of schools in the performing plus designation, moving from 21% in 2008 to 32% in 2009."
Education leaders say The AZ learns accountability system is the best way to measure a schools performance from year to year, and gives parents a snapshot as to how their school compares with other schools around the state.
"In the Scholastic Aptitude Test we're above the national average. In the ACT college entrance test we're above the national average. So I think that our emphasis on academic rigor in the classroom is really paying off," said Horne.
The federal accountability system, No Child Left Behind, measures Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) from year to year and has 253 specific points of measurement. The components for evaluating schools in determining their AYP status is: the percent of students passing; the percent of students tested; and graduation rate.
If a school fails just one of the 253 categories, the school fails to make AYP.
CONGRATULATIONS DESERT TRAILS' STUDENTS, PARENTS, AND STAFF!!!
Meanwhile, 74 percent of Arizona schools made "adequate yearly progress" under the federal No Child Left Behind system.
The components for evaluating schools in determining their annual AZ Learns profiles are the following: AIMS/Dual Purpose Assessment (DPA); Measure of Academic Progress; Graduation/Dropout rates (HS); and the reclassification of ELL students.
Arizona Schools Superintendent Tom Horne stated, "We have a record number of schools excelling this year, going from 17% in 2008 to 21% excelling in 2009. We also are seeing an increase in the number of schools in the performing plus designation, moving from 21% in 2008 to 32% in 2009."
Education leaders say The AZ learns accountability system is the best way to measure a schools performance from year to year, and gives parents a snapshot as to how their school compares with other schools around the state.
"In the Scholastic Aptitude Test we're above the national average. In the ACT college entrance test we're above the national average. So I think that our emphasis on academic rigor in the classroom is really paying off," said Horne.
The federal accountability system, No Child Left Behind, measures Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) from year to year and has 253 specific points of measurement. The components for evaluating schools in determining their AYP status is: the percent of students passing; the percent of students tested; and graduation rate.
If a school fails just one of the 253 categories, the school fails to make AYP.
CONGRATULATIONS DESERT TRAILS' STUDENTS, PARENTS, AND STAFF!!!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Up Coming Events & Dates
Here are some up coming school events and dates you won't want to miss!
School office open 7/29
Welcome Back letter sent via email 8/3
Class Lists posted at 4:00 8/12
Ice Cream Social at 5:00-7:00 8/13
School starts 9:00 8/17
School Council meeting 8/20 3:15
Half Day 8/25 School out at 12:30
Parent Orientation Night (times to be determined) 8/26
Kindergarten Silent Auction winners lunch with the Principal 8/28
K-12 Recess No School 9/7
PTO General Membership meeting 7:00 9/10
Star Citizen Mimi's lunch with the Principal 9/11
School office open 7/29
Welcome Back letter sent via email 8/3
Class Lists posted at 4:00 8/12
Ice Cream Social at 5:00-7:00 8/13
School starts 9:00 8/17
School Council meeting 8/20 3:15
Half Day 8/25 School out at 12:30
Parent Orientation Night (times to be determined) 8/26
Kindergarten Silent Auction winners lunch with the Principal 8/28
K-12 Recess No School 9/7
PTO General Membership meeting 7:00 9/10
Star Citizen Mimi's lunch with the Principal 9/11
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Summer Wrap up!
August is right around the corner, which only means one thing to me...Desert Trails will be buzzing with students, teachers, and parents soon!!! I am excited for the new school year because it always brings with it opportunities I never imagined. Already I have been meeting with parents and teachers to get ideas and input on creating a vital and instrumental Parent Volunteer program. Working together with our PAC and School Council, I know this will be a successful support we will put in place for our students this year.We will be meeting again July 30th at 9:00 and all are welcome.
I am pleased to welcome Mrs. ElizaBeth Warner as our new Gifted teacher. ElizaBeth comes from Cactus View, has done several district level professional development trainings for our own PVUSD teachers, and has also presented at the State Gifted Conference. Along with her classroom experience she has been a successful Cluster teacher. Her instructional practices are cutting edge and defined under Best Practices. She is the mother of two gifted children, so her practical application will be a wonderful resource for all. I am looking forward to the great things she has planned for our students and staff!
Our Ice Cream Social will be August 13th 5:00-7:00. This is a great time to meet your child's teacher, see old friends, and sign up to participate at school. We always can use Duty Aides, Crossing Guards, Cafeteria and Playground staff.If you can help a feww hours a week, that would be wonderful and appreciated. Perhaps you could be on our emergency call list when we a short handed. Please see Kim or Pam in the office for more information!
We continue to watch our class sizes in grade 2 and in Kindergarten. I am working closely with the district and they are aware of our numbers. Those numbers will be verified the first week of school, and at that time we will have a better understanding of our direction. My goals will be to #1 Do what is best for all students #2 Make any transition necessary as smooth as possible.
I appreciate your patience and positive attitude as we work through this together.
Enjoy these last few days of summer! The school bell will be ringing soon...
I am pleased to welcome Mrs. ElizaBeth Warner as our new Gifted teacher. ElizaBeth comes from Cactus View, has done several district level professional development trainings for our own PVUSD teachers, and has also presented at the State Gifted Conference. Along with her classroom experience she has been a successful Cluster teacher. Her instructional practices are cutting edge and defined under Best Practices. She is the mother of two gifted children, so her practical application will be a wonderful resource for all. I am looking forward to the great things she has planned for our students and staff!
Our Ice Cream Social will be August 13th 5:00-7:00. This is a great time to meet your child's teacher, see old friends, and sign up to participate at school. We always can use Duty Aides, Crossing Guards, Cafeteria and Playground staff.If you can help a feww hours a week, that would be wonderful and appreciated. Perhaps you could be on our emergency call list when we a short handed. Please see Kim or Pam in the office for more information!
We continue to watch our class sizes in grade 2 and in Kindergarten. I am working closely with the district and they are aware of our numbers. Those numbers will be verified the first week of school, and at that time we will have a better understanding of our direction. My goals will be to #1 Do what is best for all students #2 Make any transition necessary as smooth as possible.
I appreciate your patience and positive attitude as we work through this together.
Enjoy these last few days of summer! The school bell will be ringing soon...
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
End of the 2008-2009 School Year!
As we wind up such a wonderful school year, I want to take this opportunity to thank our outgoing PTO President, Becky McHolland. Becky has served the Desert Trails' students and staff with all of her heart and energy. Daily she has been at school to do whatever needed to be done, follow up with teachers, collect items, and much more.
Becky moves up to Explorer & Vista Verde middle schools, where she will once again be instrumental in helping impact student success. I wish Becky the very best and thank her for all of her endless hours, hard work, and support that she has given to me.
Also, I would like to recognize and thank are our wonderful volunteers and PTO leaders. Field trips, classrooms, reading support, copying materials, testing, events, etc... are just some of the ways our parents have demonstrated their support this year.We thank you for all you do each and every day to help make Desert Trails a great place for students to learn.
Next year will bring many challenges, but working together will be key in turning those challenges into opportunities. My door is always open to parent input and I look forward to working through our School Council, PTO, Student Council, Students and Staff to make next year the best ever.We will be looking for parents to join us on two school committees: Safety & Anti-Bully committees.
If you are looking for a way to get involved, simply come to the front office, and we will have a place for you!!!
I hope you all have a wonderful & safe summer and can find some time to be with family and friends. School begins August 17th and our Ice Cream Social will be the week before. I will be communicating over the summer to make sure you have any upcoming important dates.
Thank you for your support and participation this year. I look forward to continuing our belief in Success Each Day~Success Each Child.
Becky moves up to Explorer & Vista Verde middle schools, where she will once again be instrumental in helping impact student success. I wish Becky the very best and thank her for all of her endless hours, hard work, and support that she has given to me.
Also, I would like to recognize and thank are our wonderful volunteers and PTO leaders. Field trips, classrooms, reading support, copying materials, testing, events, etc... are just some of the ways our parents have demonstrated their support this year.We thank you for all you do each and every day to help make Desert Trails a great place for students to learn.
Next year will bring many challenges, but working together will be key in turning those challenges into opportunities. My door is always open to parent input and I look forward to working through our School Council, PTO, Student Council, Students and Staff to make next year the best ever.We will be looking for parents to join us on two school committees: Safety & Anti-Bully committees.
If you are looking for a way to get involved, simply come to the front office, and we will have a place for you!!!
I hope you all have a wonderful & safe summer and can find some time to be with family and friends. School begins August 17th and our Ice Cream Social will be the week before. I will be communicating over the summer to make sure you have any upcoming important dates.
Thank you for your support and participation this year. I look forward to continuing our belief in Success Each Day~Success Each Child.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Creating Dynamic Learning Environments!
Soon it will be time when teachers and administration meet to create classrooms for next year. The criteria is listed below and in our Student Handbook as to our goals. Parent input is wanted, appreciated and valued. Thank you for taking the time to fill out the form. We seek to work with you in this process. You will find listed below some valuable information.Should you have any questions, please email/call me and I will be happy to discuss this further.
Input forms are available now. Through my monthly E-news April edition the Parnet Input form is attached and also you may obtain the Parent Input form at the front office. All forms received before the due date, April 15, will be given equal value.
Please know the children's current grade level teachers will be provided with the input forms and directed to attempt to accommodate. However, classroom balance will be the top priority, and no guarantees can be made. Classroom teachers will make all placements in a meeting session that will include DTES administration.
Final class lists will be created by grade levels and then passed to the special area teachers, resource teachers, gifted teacher, psychologist and administration for a final review.
Only students formally identified as "gifted" will be automatically placed in cluster classrooms in Kindergarten through 3rd grade. All other students will be placed normally. Any other approach undermines the cluster rooms, as well as the other classes in those grade levels.
It is important to understand that each child's placement is done with a great deal of care by all involved, who considered a variety of factors, and believes the placement will be successful.
Published class lists are final, whereas making a single adjustment can undo a great deal of time and effort in creating well-balanced classes. Parents are encouraged to work closely with the new teacher over the first few weeks to alleviate any issues that may be perceived. Please refer to Student Handbook for further information.
We believe that any issue can be resolved. With such a supportive community and a flexible teaching staff, there is not a teacher-student combination that can not be successful if issues are addressed from productive team approach. Thank you for your partnership and support throughout the year. Here's to 2009-2010!!!
Input forms are available now. Through my monthly E-news April edition the Parnet Input form is attached and also you may obtain the Parent Input form at the front office. All forms received before the due date, April 15, will be given equal value.
Please know the children's current grade level teachers will be provided with the input forms and directed to attempt to accommodate. However, classroom balance will be the top priority, and no guarantees can be made. Classroom teachers will make all placements in a meeting session that will include DTES administration.
Final class lists will be created by grade levels and then passed to the special area teachers, resource teachers, gifted teacher, psychologist and administration for a final review.
Only students formally identified as "gifted" will be automatically placed in cluster classrooms in Kindergarten through 3rd grade. All other students will be placed normally. Any other approach undermines the cluster rooms, as well as the other classes in those grade levels.
It is important to understand that each child's placement is done with a great deal of care by all involved, who considered a variety of factors, and believes the placement will be successful.
Published class lists are final, whereas making a single adjustment can undo a great deal of time and effort in creating well-balanced classes. Parents are encouraged to work closely with the new teacher over the first few weeks to alleviate any issues that may be perceived. Please refer to Student Handbook for further information.
We believe that any issue can be resolved. With such a supportive community and a flexible teaching staff, there is not a teacher-student combination that can not be successful if issues are addressed from productive team approach. Thank you for your partnership and support throughout the year. Here's to 2009-2010!!!
Monday, March 9, 2009
Kindergarten Round-Up!
Today, March 9th, we begin taking registrations for our incoming Kindergarteners! The Kinder Teachers are looking forward to their Meet & Greet night tomorrow starting at 5:00. Also, be sure and check out our Kinder slide show posted on our site that really captures what Kindergarten is all about at Desert Trails! Thanks to Mrs. Worsham, who created the slide show!
Be sure to mark your calendar for our Islands & Barnes and Nobles Family Night Out on March 25. I will be reading a story in the children's section at 5:00 and 5:30. So, come hear a great story and then enjoy a delicious dinner with Desert Trails' friends! It is a great way to support our school!
Enjoy your Spring Break March 16-20.
Plus don't forget our PTO will be hosting their annual Spring Fling on April 3 starting at 4:00 on our playground!!!
After Spring Break we'll come right back to wrap up fourth quarter, AIMS, TerraNova, and many other great end of the year activities.
Please do not hesitate to email me with any input, thoughts or questions.
Have a wonderful week,
Be sure to mark your calendar for our Islands & Barnes and Nobles Family Night Out on March 25. I will be reading a story in the children's section at 5:00 and 5:30. So, come hear a great story and then enjoy a delicious dinner with Desert Trails' friends! It is a great way to support our school!
Enjoy your Spring Break March 16-20.
Plus don't forget our PTO will be hosting their annual Spring Fling on April 3 starting at 4:00 on our playground!!!
After Spring Break we'll come right back to wrap up fourth quarter, AIMS, TerraNova, and many other great end of the year activities.
Please do not hesitate to email me with any input, thoughts or questions.
Have a wonderful week,
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
CATALINA was a blast!
On February 5th at midnight the 70 - 6th graders and 9 chaperones pulled out of the Desert Trail's parking lot on our way to beautiful Catalina Island. CIMI or otherwise known as Catalina Island Marine Institute is a place where our students participated in activities in the various settings such as: inside well equipped labs, outside labs on the beach, in the ocean, the canyon around the bay, and the dormatories. The weekend learning experience included dissecting squid, touching and feeding several baby sharks, studying about algae, snorkeling, and we even learned about night creatures.
Our Chaperones did an outstanding job supervising and participating in the activities! A huge THANK YOU to each of them!
Our trip concluded Sunday night around 10:30 p.m. We all returned safe and sound with many wonderful memories and with more knowledge and insight to our environment and sea life.
On February 5th at midnight the 70 - 6th graders and 9 chaperones pulled out of the Desert Trail's parking lot on our way to beautiful Catalina Island. CIMI or otherwise known as Catalina Island Marine Institute is a place where our students participated in activities in the various settings such as: inside well equipped labs, outside labs on the beach, in the ocean, the canyon around the bay, and the dormatories. The weekend learning experience included dissecting squid, touching and feeding several baby sharks, studying about algae, snorkeling, and we even learned about night creatures.
Our Chaperones did an outstanding job supervising and participating in the activities! A huge THANK YOU to each of them!
Our trip concluded Sunday night around 10:30 p.m. We all returned safe and sound with many wonderful memories and with more knowledge and insight to our environment and sea life.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Budget cuts impact Desert Trails
As you are hearing daily the State is in a constant state of change as to how much money will be given to education for the 2009-2010 school year.
Due to these ups and downs I have waited to send out any information. However, final word has now come from the District and I will be sending information soon regarding the impact to Desert Trails.
Thank you for your patience.
Due to these ups and downs I have waited to send out any information. However, final word has now come from the District and I will be sending information soon regarding the impact to Desert Trails.
Thank you for your patience.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Conference Week at Desert Trails
It is wonderful to see so many families coming for Parent Conferences! Our wonderful PTO has provided a delicious dinner so teachers could catch their breath, relax, and enjoy a nice dinner.
Thank you PTO! You are generous, thoughtful, and support us all every day!
As I walked around getting great pictures of conferences it was fun to hear and see the learning taking place. The portfolios are an excellent way for parents and students to see first hand the growth that has taken place. We have such a dedicated staff!
Our 6th graders are preparing for our trip to Catalina!!! Be watching for pictures coming back from Catalina to be posted for all to enjoy!
Thank you PTO! You are generous, thoughtful, and support us all every day!
As I walked around getting great pictures of conferences it was fun to hear and see the learning taking place. The portfolios are an excellent way for parents and students to see first hand the growth that has taken place. We have such a dedicated staff!
Our 6th graders are preparing for our trip to Catalina!!! Be watching for pictures coming back from Catalina to be posted for all to enjoy!
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Jan. 6, 2009
Happy New Year!
It is great to be back to school and see our students and teachers engaged in learning. As I walk from classroom to classroom, it appears no one has missed a beat.
We have jumped right into DIBELS, Catalina Parent Night meeting, Author visit, and so much more wonderful events at Desert Trails.
Be watching for my Jan. E-news coming home this week and also information for Parent Conferences held at the end of this month!
Happy New Year!
It is great to be back to school and see our students and teachers engaged in learning. As I walk from classroom to classroom, it appears no one has missed a beat.
We have jumped right into DIBELS, Catalina Parent Night meeting, Author visit, and so much more wonderful events at Desert Trails.
Be watching for my Jan. E-news coming home this week and also information for Parent Conferences held at the end of this month!
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