Fruit and Vegetable Snacks Only Please - Food Allergies

During the first four weeks of school we will be evaluating food allergy response plans for students with medically sensitive needs. During this time, please send ONLY fruit and vegetable snacks to school. This is necessary to be responsive to the increasing number of medically sensitive situations with which we are faced.

AAPS Wellness Policy: I also want to note the AAPS has a Wellness Policy that covers both nutrition education and nutrition standards. In particular, the policy states that foods of minimal nutritional value will not be served during the instructional day, including the meal service period.

What does this mean for you? I encourage families to consider healthy choices, such as non-food items, as part of birthday and classroom celebrations. Of course, there is no way to mandate this kind of thing, but I am very aware how important the promotion healthy choices to students has been to the MLK community. Some healthy food suggestions include:

• Fresh fruit and vegetables
• Yogurt
• Bagels with low-fat cream cheese
• Baby carrot and other vegetables with low-fat dip
• Fig cookies
• Animal crackers
• Baked Chips
• Low-fat popcorn
• Granola bars (but may contain allergens)
• Soft pretzels and mustard
• Pizza (no extra cheese)
• Pudding
• String cheese
• Cereal bar
• Single-serve low-fat flavored milk
• 100% fruit juice
• Flavored bottled water

My recent healthy discovery: While shopping recently (at Costco), I picked up a product called "Trio Bars." They taste good, come in a variety of flavors and contain no trans fat, no additives, no preservatives, no cholesterol, are Kosher, and have no gluten, dairy or wheat. If they sound interesting to you, you might enjoy them as a healthy choice.

Bus Schedule

The AAPS bus schedule is available as a pdf download at:
http://www.aaps.k12.mi.us/aaps.forparents/files/0910busschedule.pdf

H1N1/Swine Flu Update

The AAPS works closely with the Washtenaw County Department of Public Health to plan and implement protocols to contain the spread of the H1N1/Swine Flu. You will receive a letter in the mail from Dr. Todd Roberts, Superintendent, giving more details on the district’s plan. There is also a web site that is updated by the district with links to the Washtenaw County Department of Public Health as well as information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). This information is available on the district’s site (http://www.a2schools.org) and our school web site (http://king.a2schools.org).

One of the most important things you can do to help keep our schools open and operating as usual is to develop a family plan to address any illness that requires your student to remain home.

We will send sick students and staff home to stay at home until a fever of 100 degrees or higher returns to normal for 24 hours and we will move students and staff who become ill at school with the flu symptoms into a the clinic until they are able to be picked up and leave school.

We will also be emphasizing hand washing and use of hand sanitizers throughout the school day and our custodial staff will be following CDC cleaning protocols.

Please KEEP SICK CHILDREN AT HOME for at least 24 hours after they no longer have a fever or do not have signs of a fever without using a fever-reducing drug. Keeping children with a fever home will reduce the number of people who may get infected. It may take up to 7 days for the illness to subside.

DO NOT SEND CHILDREN TO SCHOOL IF THEY ARE SICK. Any children who are determined to be sick while at school will be sent home.

The district will continue to update families on the H1N1 Swine Flu but if we work together by following these protocols we hope we contain the spread of this virus.

Beginning of year letter from Mr. Karr

The beginning of year letter from Mr. Karr will be finalized next week and mailed to all King School student homes. This letter will answer most of your questions including:

• your child's class placement
• first day procedures
• drop-off and pick-up procedures
• lunch information
• MORE!

Before you get the letter, please take some time to read over the Back To School Guide.

Would you like your kindergarten student to attend a PM half-day class at King?

King School has opened a PM half-day class for the 2009-10 school year! If you are are King School family and would like your kindergarten age child attend this PM half-day session, please call the King School office to indicate your interest.

The PM half-day session runs from 12:39 - 3:42 each day.

We can be reached at 994-1940.

2009-10 School Calendar Updated

The MLK Calendar has been updated with the most current 2009-10 school calendar information. NOTE: the calendar for 2009-10 is TENTATIVE and subject to change until the teacher contract has been ratified in September 2009.

CLICK HERE to see the 2009-10 calendar.

Millage - Information

http://www.aaps.k12.mi.us/2009millage/home

Back To School Guide Available Now

Click here to access an electronic version of the back to school guide.

ADHD Presentation - 8/25, 7 PM

ADHD SUPPORT GROUP- ANN ARBOR

Tuesday August 25, 7:00-9:00 p.m, 3003 Miller RD, Ann Arbor MI 48103 (west of M-14)

Our guest, Dr. Roger Lauer, Ph.D., will talk about AD/HD and Executive Functioning in relation to school and learning. 

Dr. Lauer is the director of the Center for Neuropsychology,
Learning and Development in Ann Arbor, MI.  He is adjunct faculty  in Department of Psychology at the University of Michigan.  

 More information:  Vivianne Schnitzer  vsh@umich.edu 734-276 9027, Carol  Galler carolgaller@yahoo.com 734-332-6277, Olga Gallego Smith ogallego@umich.edu  734-717 2715

PLEASE DISTRIBUTE THIS INFORMATION 

Online Math Games

Here is a site recommended by the National Council of Teachers of
Mathematics for math games:
http://calculationnation.nctm.org/

I hope your summer is going GREAT!

Summer Office Hours

The school office will be closed for the summer beginning June 22. The office will reopen on Monday, August 17 at 10:30 AM.

Have a great summer!

Want to be a movie star this summer?

The movie "Flipped", being filmed here in Ann Arbor and in Saline and directed by Rob Reiner needs extras - boys (lots of them!) and girls ages 11-14. The specifics are below and how to sign up.
Thanks!


We are looking for kids, ages 11-14 to be extras in the movie "Flipped". Kids cannot be over 5'5". Filming is taking place in the Ann Arbor ares

Here are the details, if you are interested in being considered for this opportunity.

Send the following information to flipped@realstyleonline.com
PLEASE PUT "FLIPPED, CANDIDATE" in the subject line.
1. 2 pictures, full shot head to toe, and a shot of just their face, shoulders up
2. all sizes, height included
3. Parents name and contact information including an e-mail, phone numbers
4. Please let us know if you have braces

FITTINGS: Times will be predetermined. These times will be sent to you with your maps. The kids are paid for their fittings.
Girls Fitting: Wednesday, June 24 and Thursday, June 25 and Friday, June 26. We will e-mail your time by Monday along with maps.
Boys fittings/hair cuts: Tuesday, June 23. We will e-mail your time by Sunday along with maps.

DAYS ON SET:
Required days on set (Please note, there can always be changes in production; these dates, although currently scheduled, may change slightly)

July 1
July 2
July 6
July 7
July 8
July 9

We will contact you early next week if you have been chosen.
_____________________________

Two Boy Stand Ins Needed:

Here is a call out for our male stand in who we need on set everyday for FLIPPED.


We are looking 2 boys, ages 11-14 to be stand ins, in the movie "Flipped"
A stand in is someone who takes the place of an actor while they are preparing to shoot a scene. They will use a stand in to light a shot, work on sound and camera angles. Once they are ready to film, the stand in sands out and the actor stands in.

OUR STAND INS NEED TO HAVE BLOND HAIR AND BE 5"4". THEY MUST BE WILLING TO HAVE A HAIR CUT.
Filming is taking place in the Ann Arbor area. The stand in will need to be on set from June 30 through August 21.

Here are the details, if you are interested in being considered for this opportunity.

Send the following information to flipped@realstyleonline.com
PLEASE PUT "FLIPPED, CANDIDATE" in the subject line.
1. 2 pictures, full shot head to toe, and a shot of just their face, shoulders up
2. all sizes, height included
3. Parents name and contact information including an e-mail, phone numbers
4. Please let us know if you have braces

DAYS ON SET:
June 30 through August 21

We will contact you early next week if you have been chosen.

Kathy Remski
(248) 408-0049
kremski@realstyleonline.com
www.realstyleonline.com

Third Grade Summer Reading List!

All the third graders reviewed the books they read this year and compiled this list of FAVORITES to share with each other. Hope this gives you some ideas for SUMMER READING! ~ Mrs. O’Keefe


FANTASTIC FANTASY
Harry Potter
Warrior series
Percy Jackson series by Riordan
The Wind in the Willows
Eldest
Friendship according to Humphrey and other Humphrey books
Star Wars Guide to Vehicles and Vessels; and Star Wars Dictionary
Mrs.Frisby and the Rats of NIMH
Bunnicula
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, George’s Marvelous Medicine and
all books by Roald Dahl
How To Train Your Dragon
Howl’s Moving Castle

SERIES THAT ARE FUNNY, COOL, OR JUST FUN
Super Emma, and other Emma books
Geronimo Stilton series such as Paws Off Chedderface and
Curse of the Cheese Pyramid
American Girl historical series
My Weird School like Mr. Hynde is Out of his Mind
Bailey School Kids series, such as Sea Monsters Don’t Ride Motorcycles
Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Franny K. Stein: The Fran with Four Brains
Mallory series such as Back to School
Mercy Waston series
Artemis Fowl
The Penultimate Peril and The Wide Window and The Reptile Room
(Series of Unfortunate Events)
Disney fairies such as Lily’s Pesky Plant
Junie B. Jones
Hey Kid, Want to Buy a Bridge? (Time Warp Trio)
Commander toad series
Ivy and Bean
Amazing Days of Abbey Hayes, such as Good Things Come in Small
Packages
Ivy + Bean
Stink (Judy Moody’s little brother)
Clarice Bean
Rainbow Magic series
Animorphs
Who’s afraid of Fourth Grade? (a Katie Kazoo)
Magic School Bus chapter books such as The Search for the Missing Bones

OUR FAVORITE MAGAZINES
Discovery Girls magazine
Dog Fancy magazine


HISTORICAL FICTION
Isabel: Jewel of Castilla
Little House in the Big Woods
Cleopatra, daughter of the Nile
Mickey and Me
Stone Fox
Cecile: Gates of Gold

GREAT NONFICTION
Top Ten Fish for Kids
The Labrador Retriever
The Revolutionary War
Gold
World Was II
You Wouldn’t Want to be a Viking Explorer
Dog Crafts
Draw!
M1ch1gan:The wolverines championhip season
Babe Ruth
The Battle of Bunker Hill
The Truth About Poop
NBA Basketball
Arms and Armor
Airplanes and Flying Machines
History of Flight
ER Vets
Guinness World Record books
Write on!
Cheetahs
Mammals
Snakes
Guinea Pigs
Puppy Care and Training
Draw Your Own Cartoons
Rabbits

REALITSTIC FICTION THAT’S REALLY GOOD
A Week in the Woods
Swindle
Each Little Bird that Sings
Holes
Soccer Sam
Ruby Holler
Willow King: Race the Wind

PICTURE BOOKS, FAIRY TALES AND FOLKTALES
Too Many Toys
Henry’s First-Moon Brithday
The Pied Piper of Hamelin
Rumpelstiltskin
Dragon’s Fat Cat
The Magic Nesting Doll
Fly Guy
Scaredy Squirrel books
Yoko
Tilly Witch
Jumanji
Two Bad Ants
Dusty Locks and the Three Bears


AWESOME GRAPHIC NOVELS AND HISTORIES
Babymouse
Calvin and Hobbes
Akiko Series
Miyazaki’s spirited away
The Curse of King Tut’s Tomb, The Battle of Bunker Hill, The Attack on Pearl Harbor (all Graphic Histories)
Bone

MYSTERIOUS MYSTERIES
Hardy Boys series
A-Z Mysteries such as The Kidnapped King and the Goose’s Gold
Boxcar Children mysteries


SCARY STUFF
Welcome to the Dead House
Washington Wax Museum
Michigan Chillers
Goosebumps such as Deep Trouble and Ghost Camp
More American Chillers such as Michigan Mega-Monsters

Fourth Grade Summer Reading List!

All the fourth graders reviewed the books they read this year and compiled this list of FAVORITES to share with each other. Hope this gives you some ideas for SUMMER READING! ~ Mrs. O’Keefe

FANTASY
The City Of Ember
The Bad Beginning (Series of Unfortunate Events)
Deltora Quest (such as Cavern of Fear)
Catwings
Harry Potter
The Battle of the Labyrinth (Percy Jackson series)
Dealing with Dragons series
Silverwing
books by Eva Ibbotson
Wizard of Oz
Stuart Little
Poppy and Rye and other Poppy books by Avi
Warriors (series, for example Firestar’s Quest)
Juliet Dove Queen of Love
Artemis Fowl (series)
The Tale of Despereaux
Star Wars chapter books (like The Fight to Survive)
Eragon (Inheritance series)
Pendragon series like The Merchant of Death
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Mirror, Mirror: a Twisted Tale
Punished!
Golden Compass, His Dark Materials
I.Q.
The Chocolate Touch
Coraline
Artemis Fowl series
A Dog’s Life

SCARY
The Chilliers:Virtual Vampires of Vermont, South Carolina Sea Creatures,
Haunting in New Hampshire, Mayhem on Mackinac Island
Goosebumps such as Chicken Chicken and The Haunted School
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark

AWESOME REALISTIC FICTION
Books by Marguerite Henry
Emma
The Great Quarterback Switch
Mandy
Landry News, Lunch Money, and all books by Clements
Ten Ways to Make My Sister Disappear
The Cat Who Got Carried Away
Snowed In With Granmother Silk
P.S. Longer Letter Later
Deep Down Popular
The Secret Life of the Underwear Champ
Holes
Hatchet
Fudge-a-Mania
Travel Team and other sport books by Lupica
The Penderwicks

MYSTERY
Sammy Keyes and the Psycho Kitty Queen, ...and the Skeleton Man
The Secret Order of the Gumm Street Girls
The Secret Seven and the Secret Five mysteries

FUN SERIES
Junie B. jones 1st grader at last
Now You See Me-- Now You Don’t
Abby Hayes such The best is yet to come and Home is Where the Heart Is
Zack Files
Lunch walks among us, Attack of the 50” Cupid (Franny K. Stein series)
David Mortimore Baxter
Dragon Slayer’s Academy
Diary of a Wimpy Kid
My Weird School
Choose Your Own Adventure (like Search For The Mountain Gorilla
and Race Forever)
Mallory
Little House on the Prairie books
Ready Freddy, such as Talent Show Scaredy Pants
Geronimo Stilton
Friendship According to Humphrey and other Humphrey books


AMAZING BOOKS, SOME WITH SERIOUS THEMES
The Giver
Shiloh
The Phantom Tollbooth
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret
Diary of Anne Frank
The Secret Garden
The Cay
My Secret War
The Great Gilly Hopkins
Rules


FAVORITE GRAPHIC NOVELS AND GRAPHIC HISTORIES
Akiko Books
Bumper boy
Garfield Treasuries
Miyazacki’s spirited away
Imoto no nyuin
The Curse Of King Tut’s Tomb
Babymouse
Invention of Hugo Cabret
Garfield Treasuries


GREAT NONFICTION
Spy
The Knowhow Book of Spycraft
J.K. Rowling: the Wizard behind Harry Potter
The Visual Dictionary of Baseball
Sports
Stephen Biesty’s Incredible Cross-Sections


DO SOMETHING!
Draw Your Own Cartoons
Art of Making Comic Books


PICTURE BOOKS, POETRY AND FOLKTALES WE LOVE
The Dot
My Teacher Likes to Say
Tuesday
The Princess Who Lost Her Hair

Young 5's Openings

Abbot Elementary School has several openings in its Young 5's program. Please contact barnesp@aaps.k12.mi.us for more information or to ask questions.

Did you know that Simba the Library Lion loves getting mail?

Going anywhere this summer? Or staying right here, close to home? Either way, here’s a fun, optional idea for families: send Simba a postcard!

Simba is our new, nearly life-sized stuffed lion, a library addition beloved by all the kids. It’d be really fun if you would send him a postcard (or two, or more!) during our summer vacation. All of his mail will be put into a display next fall so that we can all talk about and share our summer adventures.

So whether you send us a card from other continents or from good ol’ Ann Arbor, please address it to:

Simba Lion
King School
3800 Waldenwood
Ann Arbor, MI 48105

Happy summer! Mrs. O’Keefe, Media Specialist

Joyce Griffiths Is Retiring!

I am happy to announce the retirement of Joyce Griffiths. Joyce is currently a wonderful Kindergarten teacher at Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School.

Joyce has had a long and illustrious career as an educator that includes all of the following:

· Taught all grades K-6;

· Twelve years working in the North Dearborn Heights School District with nine years as a teacher and three years as the Curriculum Director;

· Twenty-five years teaching in the Ann Arbor Public Schools at Burns Park, Thurston, and MLK;

· Gifted and Talented teacher at Thurston;

· Nineteen years of teaching just at MLK School;

· All told, Joyce has formally shared her love of teaching for 37 years.

It should also be noted that Joyce is a graduate of THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY . It really is her only fault. Joyce also continued her studies at Eastern Michigan University and Michigan State University.

June 12 will mark Joyce’s last day teaching in the Ann Arbor Public Schools. While her day to day friendship, expertise, and wisdom will surely be missed, we’re hoping to see her from time to time in the hallways and office at school.

In retirement Joyce will enjoy the luxury of time. Time to reflect, time to explore areas of interest (particularly alternative energy sources), time to read, time for friendship, and time with family.

Please join the MLK Staff in congratulating Joyce Griffiths as she moves into her retirement years!

King Community Party Tickets Still Available

Celebrate the end of the school year, a successful Silent Auction, or take some time and get to know other King parents in a relaxed, festive atmosphere. The King Community Party is Saturday, June 13, 2009 ; 7pm until ???? Featuring a culinary delight of fabulous tastes with plenty of beverages for imbibing. Hosted by Eric Johns, Melanie Snook, Amy Cell and Terri & Jason Brodkey. $40 per person. Contact Silent Auction Chair, if interested.

Sumitted by,
Lisa Kohn
lkohn@umich.edu

Have A Wonderful Summer! -- From Your PTO

We would like to thank the entire King community for everything that you have done to help make the 2008-2009 school year so amazing.  From the Newcomers Welcome Night to the Ice Cream Social...and every single event in between, the King community helped make every King PTO event successful.  
 
A special thank you to those families that will be leaving King School at the end of the week.  Whether your youngest child is graduating from King or you are moving away, please know that you will always be a part of our extended King family.  Your help and guidance through the year(s) has been wonderful.  We will miss you.
 
We would also like to thank the amazing King School staff for everything you have done for our children this year.  We truly appreciate it!
 
To those families that we'll see in September, please take a picture of your family wherever you might be this summer...whether it's Top of the Park or travels abroad.  
 
Have a wonderful summer!  We look forward to seeing you in September! 
 
-King School PTO :)

Ice Cream Social Success!

A combination of organization, cooperativity, and great weather made Friday's Ice Cream Social extra-special. There were smiling faces covered with ice cream and face paint everywhere. The King Community sends a huge Thank You to the Ice Cream Social Chair, Lisa Joseph, and all of the many, many volunteers who made this event so much fun! 

We will miss our 5th graders but know they will make us proud next year

Limo Lunch Live Blog

Thank you to every parent who has supported the King PTO this year. Each year I also support the PTO by co-sponsoring the Limo Lunch -- along with SelectRide of Ann Arbor.

Today is actually the day of the Limo Lunch and if you'd like to follow the fun, watch http://limolunch.blogspot.com/ where I'll be live blogging the event.

Third graders researching for their Biome reports

Ice Cream Social Procedures

Dear MLK Families,

The PTO's Annual Ice Cream Social will begin at 6:00 PM tonight! This is a wonderfully fun social event for the whole family! I hope you'll make time to be there. Because this event is typically attended by nearly 1000 people, it is important to review the following information:

1. Evening activities at King are family events. Parents and guardians are responsible for the close supervision of their children. Children cannot attend without a supervising adult.
2. Be aware of the evening safety procedures at MLK--including NO PARKING IN FRONT OF THE BUILDING.


Parking
Due to the limited availability of parking at King, parents should plan to park in the neighborhood during all evening events at King.
There is NO PARKING in front of the school, by the fire hydrant, or on the left-hand side of the front circular drive.

Reason: The front drive is a fire lane and must be kept accessible for emergency vehicles. The fire hydrant area must also be kept clear.

Drop Off/Pick Up
The front entrance will be available for drop off and pick up ONLY. AT NO TIME SHOULD PARKING OCCUR IN FRONT OF THE SCHOOL.

Severe Weather
In case of severe weather and a need for shelter, families will be able to access a variety of shelter areas within the school. Each classroom space in the building has a severe weather map showing areas that are safer if severe weather is in our area.

Sincerely,
Kevin Karr
Principal
MLK School

Congrats to Ms. KC for winning the 2009 Golden Spatula

The excellence of King School never stops! We found out this morning that Ms. KC won the 2009 Golden Spatula for her great work in the kitchen. This award comes from the district's food service company, Chartwells.

BOOK NEWS from the Media Center

King Kids checked out 21,710 books this year! What great readers and supportive families we have!

I send out a heartfelt THANK YOU to our Media Center Parent and Grandparent volunteers who helped check out all those books and then kept up with all that re-shelving. I truly couldn’t have such a nice literacy and technology program without you.

Remember, all library books are due back to the Media Center, ASAP! We’re getting ready for new carpet in here over the summer and a great library program next year.

As always, email me with questions and concerns: okeefea@aaps.k12.mi.us. Thank you to all families, Mrs. O’Keefe

Time To Return Your Library Books

Newsletter Update

This appeared in the King Chronicle Newsletter recently . . .

Dear King Families,

We are all working as hard as we can to reach our end of the year outcomes and goals. Thank you for helping to keep your children motivated to complete homework and other school related assignments. We know that kids who finish the year focused on school and engaged in their typical routines have the greatest amount of success each school year.

Thank You!
The staff and I would like to thank you for the teacher appreciation activities. In particular the lunch and the flowers were very nice. We appreciate your continued support throughout the year. In the words of an unknown author, “No one who achieves success does it without acknowledging the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude.” Your willingness to help in multiple ways makes a huge difference!

Volunteer Appreciation Tea
We are lucky at King for all of the wonderful support we get each year from our parent volunteers. In recognition of our volunteers, the staff and I are hosting a tea on June 2 from 4 – 5 PM. Hopefully you’ve already received your invitation. If not, we hope to see you on June 2.

Lunch Accounts
Again, thank you to all who checked frequently over the course of the year to ensure your child’s account balance was up-to-date. Account balances have remained fairly low most of the year thanks to you. All accounts must be paid in full before the end of the school year. If you have questions about the account, please call Ms. KC at 997-1934.

Lost and Found
The lost and found will be emptied again at the end of the day on June 12. Please be sure to check it prior to that date if you are missing something.

End-of-Year Field Trips
Please check with your child to see if he/she has upcoming field trips. If so, please make sure to sign the permission slip. Students are not permitted to go on trips unless we have signed permission slips. Most trips leave the building shortly after the bell rings so your child could miss the trip if you are unable to get the permission slip signed and to the school before the buses leave.

Last Day of School
The last day of school this year is June 12; it is a half-day. Students are dismissed at 11:51 a.m. All bus riders will be dropped off at their regular after school neighborhood locations. The last day for afternoon kindergarten students is Thursday, June 11.

Report Cards
Students will bring home a copy of their report letter on the last day of school. It represents their level of achievement at the end of the school year.

Front Drive
Thank you to everyone for following the King School pick-up and drop-off policy. We’ve made great strides in this area, but I do see this as a continued focus next school year. If you are able to help me in either the morning of afternoon next school year, please let me know.

Parting Words . . .
If I don't see you before the last day of school, thank you for a wonderful year. The students have progressed so much, the teachers have worked so hard, and I know parents have done everything they can to support it all. I'm already looking forward to next year . . .

Sincerely,
Kevin

Duck Evacuation Radio Interview

In case you missed the Michigan Radio duck interview, you can hear it by clicking below.

MICHIGAN: Duck Evacuation (2009-05-29)

Shared via AddThis

Fwd: Ducks at King

Below is a forward of an email from a King mother.  It was really nice to read.

Begin forwarded message:

I'm so happy we have our own personal version of "Make Way For Ducklings" by Robert McCloskey.  It shows our King Pride too.  I'll have to re-read the book to my kids tonight. 

Blimpy Burger Visits King School

Thanks to Mr. Rich Magner, owner of Blimpy Burger in Ann Arbor, for bringing lunch to Mr. Clarkson's class today. The free lunch was in response to a letter written by one of the students.

I was lucky to get one of the tasty burgers myself. It was a treat. I think I'll be making the trek to Blimpy Burger sometime soon. You might want to also. Check out their website at http://www.blimpyburger.com/

Duck Update

We're happy to report that mother duck and her ducklings have exited the courtyard and have made their way to a pond close to King.

We didn't get a picture of the exit but it was witnessed by two 3rd grade girls.

Duck Evacuation Plan

As reported yesterday, we've got ducks in the courtyard at King School!

Thanks to Mrs. Lake and Mrs. Schaffer for trying to evacuate them last evening. Their attempt to help was not successful, however.

At this point, we've opened the door to the courtyard and have set up boxes on either side to guide our mother duck and her ducklings out to the larger world including water and appropriate food. We'll update the King School website throughout the day if we experience any success.

Younger sibs watch tonight's concert from an interesting perspective

Our 5th Grade Teachers

Thank you to all of our teachers but to our 5th grade teachers in particular tonight. Their hard work and dedication this year has been outstanding whether we're talking about day to day classroom activities or their planning of Space Camp. I appreciate them and their professionalism. On behalf of the entire MLK community, thank you!

5th Grade Open House/Music Night

Tonight's rendition of The Tree Song was beautiful.

Indoor noon hour fun

Some of our fantastic 5th graders pay tribute to Dr. King during indoor noon hour today.

DUCKS!

We found ducks in the King courtyard yesterday! There are about a dozen newly hatched ducklings....WOW!

Plans are being made about how to march the ducklings out of the courtyard and to the back pond.

Using KidPix as part of the Plants unit in 1st grade

Countdown to Summer in the Media Center!

Can't believe it, but we're getting ready for the end of year in our library.

King students may check out up to three books all of this week, but then not anymore after this Friday, the 29th.

Then ALL library books are due on Friday, June 5.  

Please watch for reminder notices and help your kids find "lost" books or pay for "truly lost" books.  Together we'll help our children support the library, value its contents, and keep it a positive, happy place.

Feel free to email me with questions or concerns-okeefea@aaps.k12.mi.us .

 

Thanks!  Mrs. O'Keefe

Fifth graders return from Space Camp

Thank you to our wonderful 5th grade teachers for making the Space Camp experience happen again this year. Kids and parent chaperones alike said it was an amazing experience.

Drop-off Zone Reminder: NO BACKING UP

I wrote my last post of drop off praise too soon . . . moments after posting the GREAT drop off picture, a car began backing up in the drop off zone.

Of course, it is not OK to back up while in the drop-off zone. Cars are only allowed to move in the forward direction.

You can review the entire drop-off and pick-up policy by clicking here. Thank you for your attention to this serious and important matter.

Thanks for another great drop off today!

Thanks Campfire Chipmunks for your cleanup help!

Space Camp Update

The King 5th grade teachers posted an update about space camp. You
can view it by clicking on the "Space Camp" logo on the front page of
the King website. http://king.a2schools.org

Ice Cream Social - June 5th from 6 - 8 PM

I scream, you scream, we all scream for the Ice Cream Social! This is a great party to say thank you to the students, King facility and the families for all their hard work :) As always, the party will be located behind the school on the   blacktop area. Bracelets for the kids will be sold for $5 which includes one ice cream, access to the games with prizes, cakewalk, and the moonwalks. Additional tickets for ice cream will be sold for $2 and the 4th grade parents will be selling pizza (by the whole or slice), drinks and popcorn.

Of course, we couldn't have this wonderful event w/o the help of our parent volunteers. Your grade level representative should be in contact with you soon about volunteering to help out. Please consider donating a little of your time as there is a lot that goes into making this a successful event. We'd love to see you especially if  you haven't been able to volunteer throughout the school year.

You can sign up to volunteer on this Doodle website:http://doodle.com/ieki54tv2hztw947

Please note that the games are listed by grade level and the ice cream, pizza/drinks and popcorn stands will be run by the 4th grade parents.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email or call me.

 
Thanks so much!! 
Lisa Joseph
Ice Cream Social Chair
dljoseph@comcast.net 
734-663-4607

Student Art Update

If you have not seen The Ann Arbor Public Schools Elementary Art Exhibit at The Ann Arbor District Library you have 2 weeks left!  The show ends on May 29th, 2009. So go and support the visual arts, our students and our children.

The winners of King's Earth Day Poster Contest are: Daniel Huang Kindergarten, Greta Schorer-1st Grade, Irusha Hewagama-2nd Grade, Katy Formicola -3rd Grade, Eric Chen-4th Grade and  Siani Woods- 5th Grade.

 
As a cross-curricular Language Arts and Art lesson, the students in Mr. Clarkson's 2nd grade class wrote letters to local Ann Arbor businesses. One business, Blimpy Burger, wrote Nikhil Mandalr back and asked if our students could design advertising posters for the restaurant. Ms. Wayne taught the students in Mr. Clarkson's class how to use the combination of type and graphics to create the posters. The posters are on exhibit at the restaurant until June. The students have also created a comic strip about Blimpy Burger and will be on exhibit this summer at Blimpy Burger. Go see our students' work!

 
Parents, if you work at or own a business who will exhibit our student's Artwork for The 2009 -2010 school year. Please contact Ms. Wayne. I am looking for more opportunities to showcase the students artwork; not enough of our students' work get seen. My goal is to have every King School students' artwork seen in a public place. 
 

If you have any extra paper or plastic bags lying around at home have your kids bring them to Ms. Wayne. It is time for them to bring their artwork home.

 

Thank You, Ms.Wayne

2009 AAPS Summer Music Program JUNE 22 - JULY 30

THE ANN ARBOR PUBLIC SCHOOL 

2009 SUMMER MUSIC PROGRAM

JUNE 22 - JULY 30

HAVING FUN WITH INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC 

Open to all of 

WASHTENAW COUNTY!!

June 22 - July 30, 2009  Mon. - Thurs. 

One hour classes starting 8:30a.m. - 1:30 p.m.  

For: Students going to 6th - 12th grade. 

See course descriptions: By music teacher or on-line.

Locations: Forsythe, Scarlett and Tappan Middle Schools

Registration:  Anytime, early discounts by June 12th! 

Cost: Early Reg.  $199 includes a T-SHIRT.  $215 Reg.

For More Information/Registration Forms: Call Rec & Ed. at 994-2300 x53219 or 487-8925.

 Also: On the web registration at, www.aareced.com or the Ann Arbor Public School Home page click "Parents"!

King School Space Camp

Our 5th graders left Michigan and have not arrived in Alabama for their Space Camp experience. You can follow all of their adventures at the King School Space Camp website.

Thanks for the help, Sally and Girl Scouts

Third grade lunch time happiness

An image of 5th grade excitement

*FREE* School & Sports Physicals

FREE*
School & Sports Physicals
at
Hope Medical Clinic
103 Arnet
Ypsilanti, MI
1.5 blocks south & 1 block east of Michigan Ave and Prospect

Saturday, July 18, 2009
(no appointment needed)
Sign in: 1:15-3:15 pm

For children without insurance coverage for a summer physical

Wear: shorts & tanks or athletic T-shirts

Bring:
• forms from your school, Head Start of program
• prior immunization records if any (note: immunizations will NOT be provided)
• parent/guardian (required)

* A $5 donation will be gratefully accepted
Necessary lab work will be ordered from SJMHS ONLY
This event is for well-child physicals only. Please call to make an appointment to address illnesses or medical concerns.

Hope Medical Clinic
for the uninsured
734-481-0111

Ice Cream Social FYI

I scream, you scream, we all scream for the Ice Cream Social! This is a great party to say thank you to the students, King facility and the families for all their hard work :) As always, the party will be located behind the school on the blacktop area. Bracelets for the kids will be sold for $5 which includes one ice cream, access to the games with prizes, cakewalk, and the moonwalks. Additional tickets for ice cream will be sold for $2 and the 4th grade parents will be selling pizza (by the whole or slice), drinks and popcorn.

Of course, we couldn't have this wonderful event w/o the help of our parent volunteers. Your grade level representative should be in contact with you soon about volunteering to help out.Please consider donating a little of your time as there is a lot that goes into making this a successful event. We'd love to see you especially if you haven't been able to volunteer throughout the school year.

You can sign up to volunteer on this Doodle website: http://doodle.com/ieki54tv2hztw947
Please note that the games are listed by grade level and the ice cream, pizza/drinks and popcorn stands will be run by the 4th grade parents.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email or call me.

Thanks so much!!
Lisa Joseph
Ice Cream Social Chair
dljoseph@comcast.net

Bagels & Buns - May 15 @ 8:15 AM

FREE Starbucks coffee!

All are welcome: children and parents, teachers and staff

Please join us for breakfast and conversation:

Friday, April 15, 2009, 8:15am until school starts

Bagels $1 (cream cheese included)
Buns $2
Orange Juice 50 cents.

Thank you,
Christina Nedeltchev, Angela Johnson, Line vN

Space Camp Website

The fifth grade Space Camp developments can be followed at:
http://kingschoolspacecamp.blogspot.com/

Check it out!

It's Hot Outside... Need a Water Bottle?

Now that the warm weather is FINALLY here, how about using a King School Water Bottle to help you stay hydrated?  They are reusable, recylable (#2), and BPA free!  

 
Fill out the form at the bottom of this e-mail to order water bottles for each member of your family.   Water bottles will be sent home with your child.
 
Contact Karen Schumacher at kschu58@hotmail.com  with any questions.

King Student Art on Exhibit

Submitted by:  Mrs. Wayne   The following student's Artwork has been selected for The Annual Ann Arbor Public School's Elementary Student Art Exhibit at The Ann Arbor District Library. 343 South Fifth Ave. You are invited to  come and celebrate the Visual Arts. April 23rd - May 29th, 2009. The Opening reception is May 7th, 2009. Claire Lyons -K Kristin Thorsdottir  - K Victoria Nweze - K Cindy Lui -K Candance Jung - K Nadia Hansen -1 Ariel Smith-1st Julia Yehi -2 Garret Martin -2 Sampath Eaty -2 Claire Boudette -2 Bertrand Chu -2 Pete Ghormley -2 Allison Sabb -2 Alex Joseph -2 Julianna Caton -2 Joy Li -2 Tristian Ramos -2 Lexi Ripley -2 Vallan Roan -2 Jonathan Jiang -2 Khai Johnson -2 Sam Renken -2 Megan Sabb -2 Joy Chen -3 Morgan Gallimore -3 Vidhya Rajaprabhakaran-3 Kailynn Barton-3 Peter Kalemkerian-3 Darius Johnson-3 Bill McRoy -4 Meila Foster -4 Shyaoman Zhang -4 Olivia Boudette -4 Sophia Iamone -4 Alex Cucos -4 Sami Ghazzi -4 Alexa Mikhal -4 Anya Bothner -4 Christopher Jing -4 Yuqing Wei  -4 Grace LI -4 Hannah Niemi - 4 Laura Grosh -4 Jessica Chen - 4 Aylin Gunal -4 Katia Kukucka -4 Niu Niu -4 Akane Kawamoto -4 Alice Xu -4 Keyen Yockey -4 Katy Stegemann -4 Evan Wright -5 Dan Geng -5 Alex Alajbegovic -5 Melissa Newman -5 Tara Nieuwstadt -5 Quentin Millette -5 Luca Angelino -5 Maria M. -5 Alice Deng -5   The winning Art work for the cover of the 2008/2009 yearbook belongs to Celeste Pan 3rd grade. Congratulations Celeste. The winners for the back cover/autograph page are Kazuma Kwait 3rd grade, Scott ., 4th grade and Megan Sabb 2nd grade. Congratulations to all the winners. Order your 2008/2009 Year Book Today!

Anxiety Disorders in Children and Adolescents: An Educational Forum

Anxiety Disorders in Children and Adolescents: An Educational Forum
Tuesday, May 12 from 7:00-8:15 pm
Huron High School "New Theater"
2727 Fuller Road, Ann Arbor

Transient fears and anxieties can be a part of normal childhood development, but if the anxiety causes excessive distress and/or interferes with school performance, activities, or relationships with family or friends, it could be an indication of an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders can be disabling and are surprisingly common, affecting up to 30% of all youth. The good news is that effective treatments are available.

To learn more about anxiety disorders in children and adolescents, including the latest research advances and treatment options, we hope you will join us for this educational forum on Tuesday, May 12 from 7:00-8:15 pm at Huron High School. Kate Fitzgerald, MD, a clinical lecturer in the Child and Adolescent Anxiety Program and member of the Depression Center at the University of Michigan, will discuss the presentation and treatment of anxiety disorders in youth. This will be followed by questions from the audience and discussion with expert panelists.

This event is free and open to the public, and is appropriate for parents of students at any grade level. This forum is presented as part of an ongoing educational partnership between the University of Michigan Depression Center and the Ann Arbor Public Schools. AAPS staff members are also encouraged to attend. For more information, please contact Trish Meyer at the U-M Depression Center: meyerpa@umich.edu

Swine Flu Update: Letter from Dr. Roberts

This letter from Dr. Roberts will come home via backpack mail today as well . . .

May 1, 2009
Dear Ann Arbor Public School Parent and/or Guardian,

As the H1N1 Virus (known also as the Swine Flu) continues to be diagnosed throughout the United States there have been some concerns raised about students who may have recently traveled to Mexico.

We would like to emphasize that the Ann Arbor Public School district is working closely with the Washtenaw County Department of Public Health as well as advisories from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Department of Education. The district’s professional nurses are tracking and monitoring closely in the schools any students or staff with flu-like symptoms. As well, local medical professionals are following the protocols issued by the CDC and Public Health in reporting and examining people who come to them for their care.

The Washtenaw County Department of Public Health Department, the CDC or the Department of Education do not recommend that people who have traveled from Mexico be excluded from school unless they show symptoms of the flu. We are following the recommendation of the Washtenaw County Department of Public Health regarding the H1N1 virus.

We understand that enhanced media attention as well as the real medical concerns that have come with some of the confirmed cases in Mexico that there is a heightened alert about this flu. The Washtenaw County Department of Public Health has advised us that the most important steps to take are related to prevention.

• Stay home from work or school if you have a respiratory illness
• Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or otherwise appear ill.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze by using a tissue or your sleeve/elbow. Dispose of the tissue promptly and carefully.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water. Alcohol based hand gels are also effective when used according to manufacturers’ instructions.
• Contact your physician if you are experiencing severe symptoms including cough, fever, fatigue, sore throat, chills, headaches, body aches possibly along with diarrhea and vomiting.

We will continue to update district families on any new information or updates we receive from the Washtenaw County Department of Public Health.

If you have concerns please contact your school principal or me.
Sincerely,

Todd Roberts
Superintendent

Swine Flu Update

This update regarding the swine flu went home today with all students.

What is swine influenza?
It is a respiratory illness that occurs in pigs and is caused by Type A influenza swine virus. Swine flu virus does not normally affect humans but in rare cases it can be passed from pigs to humans. The current strain is a new swine influenza virus that is passing from human to human.

What are the symptoms?
Symptoms are similar to regular seasonal human influenza and usually appear within 1 to 7 days after being infected and may include:
• Fever (usually greater than100 F)
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Headache and muscle aches
• Extreme fatigue
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Most cases seen in the United States to date are mild but symptoms can be severe enough to require hospitalization. Flu-related complications can occur at any age; however, the elderly, people with chronic health problems, pregnant women and young children are much more likely to develop serious
complications after influenza infection.

How is it spread?
Influenza viruses can be directly transmitted from pigs to people and from people to pigs. Human infection with flu viruses from pigs are most likely to occur when people are in close proximity to infected pigs. Human-to-human transmission of swine flu can also occur. This is thought to happen in the same way as seasonal flu occurs in people, which is mainly person-
to-person transmission through coughing or sneezing of people infected with the influenza virus. People with flu viruses on it and then touching their eyes, mouth or nose. You can not become infected by eating pork or pork products.

What is the treatment?
• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration (i.e., water, juice, and tea).
• Take non-aspirin medication for fever and body aches. Aspirin should not be used in children with viral illnesses since there have been casesassociated with the development of Reye’s Syndrome.
• Swine flu is susceptible to antivirals. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if treatment with antiviral drugs is needed.

How is it prevented?
Prevention measures include:
• Stay home from work or school if you have a respiratory illness.
• Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or otherwise appear ill.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze by using a tissue or your sleeve/elbow.
Dispose of the tissue promptly and carefully.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water. Alcohol based hand gels are also effective.
• Contact your physician or health care provider if you are experiencing severe symptoms including cough, fever, fatigue, sore throat, chills, headaches, body aches possibly along with diarrhea and vomiting.
• According to the CDC, the seasonal flu vaccine is unlikely to provide protection against the swine flu.


This fact sheet is for information only and is not meant to be used for self -diagnosis or as a substitute for consultation with a health care provider. For more information call your health care provider or call Washtenaw County Public Health at 734-544-6700.

Lost and Found To Be Emptied

The Lost and Found will be emptied on Tuesday, May 5 in the afternoon.

King School Is Certified Green!

Over spring break, Ms. Shah attended the Michigan Green Schools Award Ceremony at which King School was recognized for the efforts of the student council including the following:

• Being the first elementary school in Ann Arbor to begin composting

• Our Earth Day Festival

• Our adoption of the Saw Whet Owl housed at the Leslie Science and Nature Center.

Thank you Ms. Shah and to everyone for their hard work around becoming a certified green school!

Thank you also to our student council advisors: Dr. Michalik, Ms. Shah, Mrs. Gracey.

Box Tops Contest

This is the final week of our boxtops contest. We are only about half-way to our goal of raising $998. So keep sending in those boxtops and remember the classroom that brings in the most boxtops will receive a Smoothie Party.

Boxtops look like the above picture and can be found on the tops of General Mills Cereal Boxes and many other products. Check out www.boxtops4education.com for a complete list. Thanks! Contact Teri Henning tghenning@comcast.net with any questions.

One More Week to Sign Up For Math Club

Parents of 3rd and 4th graders please remember that math club sign-up is due next Monday, May 4th. If you can't locate the sign-up form anymore, you can go to King School's website to download it:
http://www.aaps.k12.mi.us/king.pto/forms&config=aYtYrExbRAqlGruNWrHu5M

For those of you who have missed previous announcements, starting from the fall of 2009, King school will have a Math Olympiad Team for 4th and 5th graders. Details can be found at the above web address.

To give students a chance to try out the activity, we will run a "trial" math club. The club is open to all 3rd and 4th graders (who will be eligible for MOEMS in the fall). The math club will meet from 3:45 to 5pm in the MP room at King School on May 21st, 28th, June 4th and 11th.

Please also consider volunteering for this event. The more coaches we have, the better guidance the kids will get.

If you have questions, please email jingliu01@gmail.com or ljing@umich.edu

Thank You King Community for a Terrific Silent Auction!

It was a fun, festive evening and there are many, many people to thank...so let's get to it.

Thursday night table set up:
Lisa Joseph, Diana Wang, Diane Alson, Michael Morag, Ray Stocking, Shu-Chen Hug, Julie Hollenshead

Friday Display set up & basket arrangement or if we move these bid sheets one more time!:
Rachel Saab, Kim Lyon, Suman Shankar, Than Than Win, Christine Kuckuka, Kathy Grijalva and Susan Gechter

Registration or (does anyone have a pen?):
Heather Schweitzer, Susan Henken, Kea Berry

Table Monitors :
Camille Ziolek, Francine MacBride, Shirin Naaseh

Food Line and Popsicles:
Cheryl Baker, Linda Ryan, Laurie Galia, Susan Gechter

Raffle Table:
Roya Najafi, Raphaella Moeller, Ellen Grosh

Check Out:
Sarah Helmich, Maneesha Gulati, Cecilia Sauter, Lily Au, Kea Berry, Line VanNieuwstadt

File Room or Here come the bid sheets!:
Alena Stocking, Suman Shankar, Kea Berry, Cecelia Sauter

Clean Up--you ordered how many tables?:
Brian Storey, Khalil Najafi, Brian Abadi, Shirin Naaseh, Roya Najafi, Laurie Galia

Thanks to all these volunteers who helped to make Silent Auction a success.

Lisa Kohn

Kindergarten Open House/Music Night

We're looking forward to seeing all of our wonderful Kinderagarten families for the annual Open House and Music Night at MLK this Tuesday, April 28 beginning at 6:30 PM.

2009-10 Kindergarten families are invited to tour classrooms following the 7 PM concert with your future student!

Hope to see you there!

Fourth Grade Open House/Music Night

We're looking forward to seeing all of our wonderful 4th grade families for the annual Open House and Music Night at MLK this Thursday, April 30 beginning at 6:30 PM.

Hope to see you there!

Enrollment Time!

Reminder to all families who live in the King School attendance area:

Any children who are not currently enrolled at King School but will be coming to King in the fall should come to school and fill out enrollment papers now.

If you have any questions, please call us at 994-1940.

This may be available at the silent auction IF I take it off on Twitpic

This may be available at the silent auction IF I take it off on Twitpic

Silent Auction Countdown--1 More Day!

Time to Make Your List

So many items and so little time...Here are some auction tips to get you through the next 36 hours.

Make an excel sheet of your favorite items. Sort by numbers. The 100's will go in the first closing at 7:15, 200's at 7:30 and 300 and 400;s 7:45; then sort by "nice to have" and "must have".

No Hovering, but maybe bring some binoculars to see what bids are placed on your favorites.

Clean out your trunk. These classroom baskets are terrific and you'll want to make some room in the car for when you take them home.

Proxy Bid Update
I221 Zingerman's gift card $50
D341 Hummus for a Year $50

Things to Ponder
I223 "Let's have lunch (or brunch) Part 2. $25 Cafe' Marie, 2 Cottage Inn Lunch Buffets--both nice options for treating someone to lunch...AND 4 Large Pizzas from Papa John's---well that's a power lunch for 2 and then some.

Combined Items
The catalog crew has to sort through many donations and combine items to make attractive packages...some "almost" combinations that didn't make the catalog...

Stucci's 3 free Sundaes + Nutritional Counseling
Running Fit + Tortoise and Hare (too exhausting)
Zoom Teeth Whitening + Zingerman's Coffee
Case of Wine + Prepared Tax Return
Ukulele + String Instrument Lessons

Raffle Table
There are some great items available for a $1 raffle. My children shared their intended strategy for these items: "Drop your ticket in late, mom, so it's right on top." Lily Au has created a wonderful, creative King photo album that would delight any student now and even more so in the future.

Lisa Kohn
Silent Auction Chair
lkohn@umich.edu

Silent Auction Procedures

Dear MLK Families,

The PTO's Annual Silent Auction will begin at 6:00 on Friday, April 24! This is our PTO's biggest annual fundraiser and supports programming for EVERY student at MLK. I hope to see you there! Because this event is typically attended by over 800 people, it is important to review the following information:

1. Evening activities at King are family events. Parents and guardians are responsible for the close supervision of their children. Children cannot attend without a supervising adult.
2. Be aware of the evening safety procedures at MLK--including NO PARKING IN FRONT OF THE BUILDING.


Parking
Due to the limited availability of parking at King, parents should plan to park in the neighborhood during all evening events at King.
There is NO PARKING in front of the school, by the fire hydrant, or on the left-hand side of the front circular drive.

Reason: The front drive is a fire lane and must be kept accessible for emergency vehicles. The fire hydrant area must also be kept clear.

Drop Off/Pick Up
The front entrance will be available for drop off and pick up ONLY. AT NO TIME SHOULD PARKING OCCUR IN FRONT OF THE SCHOOL.

Emergency Exits

Below is a map of the school with the arrows indicating emergency exits. Before you come to an evening event at King, please consider designating a place outside the building for your family to meet in the event that the building needs to be evacuated.

Front Entrance

If you have any questions, please call the school office. We'll be happy to help.

Sincerely,
Kevin Karr
Principal
MLK School

Silent Auction Catalog - Download It Now!

GREAT items in this year's silent auction catalog: http://www.aaps.k12.mi.us/king.pto/files/sa_catalog_v5.doc

Lice Check Videos

These might be helpful . . .

From Ann Arbor PTOC:

These two video links are helpful and good reminders for Lice Checks and Treatments:
http://headliceinfo.com/freemovies/flash/hltdlmovie.html
and
http://www.headliceinfo.com/freemovies/flash/nitcheck_demo.html

Math Club Sign-Up Begins

Dear parents,

As you may have already known, King school will start the Math Olympiad for Elementary and Middle Schools (MOEMS) program. MOEMS has been a major math contest for school children for 30 years. In the 2007-2008 year, 150,000 students participated in the program, representing all 50 US states and 25 countries. Its stated goals are:
To stimulate enthusiasm and a love for Mathematics
To introduce important Mathematical concepts
To teach major strategies for problem solving
To develop Mathematical flexibility in solving problems
To strengthen Mathematical intuition
To foster Mathematical creativity and ingenuity
To provide for the satisfaction, joy, and thrill of meeting challenges
Starting from the fall of 2009, King school will have a Math Olympiad Team for 4th and 5th graders. Everyone who wants the challenge is welcome, regardless of the level of math proficiency. We will hold after-school training sessions, where we will introduce problem-solving strategies, and work in small groups on word problems. All students on the team are strongly encouraged to participate in the contests, but they have the option to participate in the training only.

The contests will be held at King school once every month from November to March. In each contest, students will have 30 minutes to solve 5 word problems. All participants will receive Participation Certificates, high scorers will also receive gold, silver or bronze plaques and trophies. Nationwide, about half of the participants receive plaques or trophies.

In September, we will hold an informational meeting for all interested parents.

The training and contests will run from October to March, roughly 3 times a month. The long time-span helps make math enrichment a continuous process. But it also requires commitment from students and parents. To give students a chance to try out the activity, we will run a "trial" math club. The club is open to all 3rd and 4th graders (who will be eligible for MOEMS in the fall). This will be a good math enrichment opportunity; however, anyone who does not sign up for the club can still sign up for the Math Team in the fall. The math club will meet from 3:45 to 5pm in the MP room at King School on May 21st, 28th, June 4th and 11th.

Sign-up forms went to home today for 3rd and 4th graders and should be turned in by May 4th. We welcome all kinds of help from parents. The more parent volunteers we have, the better we can run the small groups. If you have questions, please email jingliu01@gmail.com or ljing@umich.edu .

Sincerely,
Jing Liu, PICO (Person In Charge of the Olympiad)

Auction Food and Proxy Bidding

Don't forget to pre-order your dinner for the auction: Chinese, Indian, Mexican and Middle Eastern will be featured at the International Buffet. Whole pizzas are $10.

As you scan the catalog, look for some familiar favorites such as Purple Rose Theater tickets and some new features like UM Hockey tickets and complimentary Zamboni ride. So many choices, so little time! Schedule conflict and you can't make it? There's always proxy bidding. Send your bids to the office by 5pm Friday to see if you'll be the winner of that coveted item.

Cut off the coupon at the bottom and submit to Silent Auction mailbox in office by Wednesday, April 22nd OR even easier: Email order to: Alena Stocking; alena.stocking@gmail.com

Silent Auction: Friday April 24, 2009 - 3 Day Countdown!

Thank you to the following King Families for your donations to the
Silent Auction:

Oded and Cynthia Gur-arie; Amy Cell; Lisa and Dave Kohn; Melanie Snook; Dr. Randall and Sonia Kaufman; Roya Najafi; the Stegemann family and the Endres family

Take a look at these generous and interesting donations:

A European facial and eyebrow wax;3 gift baskets from Cherry Republic; 4 Nights in Vail at a condo that's 5 min from downtown; King Community party; Euchre party; Hommus for a year; 2 tickets to the Ann Arbor premier of "The Champagne Spy", May 5th at the Michigan Theater--a highly acclaimed documentary and winner of many international awards.

Dive into the catalog when it comes home in backpacks on Monday April 20th. Vacations, kids camps, theater, restaurants, and some first-time, unique expereinces with UM's Women's and Men's Soccer Teams.

Think about how you can volunteer and consider donating an hour to help out with this event. For perspective--I ordered 17 -8 foot tables for International Night. This event takes 66 tables. No need to take 2 cars if you stay for clean up: we'll have mini-van car pools for the late work.

Please click to this link and sign up to assist:

http://www.doodle.com/aiq7rv4h4eqymrpa

For questions or information,contact

Lisa Kohn
lkohn@umich.edu
734-417-7129

School Renovations Update

The lockers have been installed and the sinks and cabinets have been replaced!

You can see photos at the King School twitter: http://twitter.com/King_School

Kindergarten Readiness Meeting - 4/23 @ 6:30 PM

There will be a kindergarten readiness meeting for families who would like to attend at the Preschool & Family Center
2775 Boardwalk Drive
North of Eisenhower Parkway

The meeting will address the following topics:

• What is the kindergarten curriculum like?
• What skills will help your child succeed as she enters kindergaten?
• What does literacy mean for a kindergarten student?
• Are the schools ready for your child? Yes! Find out how you can play with your child while building skills that will help him in school.

To register for the evening, please call 994-2300 extension 53186.

Child care is available for $3 per child in the First Steps classroom; however, space is limited to 12 children. Please call 994-2300 x53186 to reserve your spot.

MLK School Renovations Update

Back in October and December of this school year, I shared some continuing information about renovations at King School associated with the 2004 bond passed by Ann Arbor voters. Click here to view what was shared.

Since then, quite a bit has happened at school in the way of renovations including:
- electrical upgrades;
- installation of a new security system;
- replacement of some classroom flooring in some rooms;
- updating of all bathrooms in the building;
- repaving of front drive;
- replacing the heating system;
- installation of wireless infrastructure;
- installation of new "white" boards in all classrooms.

During the upcoming spring break, we've got more work that will be completed including:
- replacement of more classroom flooring;
- installation of lockers in hallways;
- replace cabinetry and sinks in classrooms;
- painting doors and hallways.

WOW! It is going to be very exciting to come back from spring break to see the new improvements--especially the lockers! I know the kids are excited about the lockers!

King Composting Information

KING COMPOSTERS!
We are launching a new and exciting composting initiative at King School! All kids and staff will be composting!! This program was developed through Student Council’s Green Team and designed to reduce our school’s environmental impact by cutting down the use of landfill space. This not only helps us to become responsible citizens for our planet, but it enables us to support our community as well. By turning uncooked vegetative waste into municipal composting, a beneficial end product is made and can be used to improve our community.
Compostable materials will be placed in designated composting bins in our school lunchroom, teacher’s lounge, classrooms, and kitchen. The compostable materials will be picked up by the city one day a week through the months of April, May, June, September, October, and November.
Things that CAN be composted are raw food items such as: Fruit /Vegetable Scraps, Salad trimmings, Vegetable Peelings, Onion Skins, Egg Shells, Coffee Grounds, Coffee Filters, Tea Bags, and Flowers. Things that CAN NOT be composted are: Meat, Cheese, Poultry, Cooked Food, Fish liquids, Plate Scrapings, Sauces, Oils, Fats, Butters, Yogurt, Plastic Wrap, Utensils, Rubber Bands, Foil, Polystyrene Foam Gloves, and Wrappers of any kind. If you have any questions, you can contact Ms. Shah at shahn@aaps.k12.mi.us . Have fun and remember to compost!

Silent Auction Countdown - Two Weeks To Go!

Science Olympiad and Silent Auction night are just around the corner and look at the outstanding evening we have planned for the King Community! Dine with an international buffet of foods. See Dr. Zeemo give 2 shows on "The Science Of Spinning"--a funny, former physics teacher, turned comic. Smile with "Ziggy the Clown" while you ooh, aah and,of course, bid on some fabulous donations. Stop by Lynne Schwank's face painting station.

Hear what previous winning bidders have to say about some of the items up for auction:

Antigua Time Share-Donated by Mike and Darla Dubin
"What we really loved about the place, besides the 5 minute walk to the Caribbean, was that this was a REAL island with REAL people and no hint of commercialization. The kids loved the golf cart (drivers, maybe?) the warm waters and collecting shells." -Lona Mody

Bird Tour in the Arb with Washtenaw Audubon Society -Donated by Ray Stocking
"We had a wonderful morning and Ray was a great tour guide filled with so much information about the arboretum and the birds, of course. Not sure how he did hit, but Ray even managed to grant my wish and find a bluebird. I don't want to give too glowing of a review for fear that someone will outbid me this year!" -Susan and Eden Henkin

Aspen Time Share-Donated by Tim and Robin Damschroder
"The Silver Glow unit was newly remodeled and comfortable for all of us. We were 4 blocks from downtown, however, their bus was always available to take you wherever you wanted to go in Aspen. We never waited more than 5 minutes for the bus, no matter where we were. The snow was great and I'm sending my wife (Marie) back to bid again!" -Dick Steele

Cancun Time Share-Donated by Juanita Merchant
"This was the most relaxing vacation my family has ever taken! The villa faces the Caribbean so there were many opportunities for walks along the beach. Royal Resorts has plenty of activities to keep kids and grown ups busy or you can bask in the sun. The modern hotel conveniences along with the high-class entertainment made for a very relaxing and fun vacation. -Maneesha Gulatim

Thank you to the following King Families and former teachers for your donations:
Nejat Seyhun, Sujata Guduri, Sandra Wong, Samantha Chan, Mrs. Cheryl Jones, Carol Teener, Neal Boudette, Bruce Miller

Check out these Generous and Interesting Donations: Famous chocolate orbit cake or other luscious cake of your choosing; a day in the life of an automotive reporter--test drive cars, prep for an interview on CNN, whatever the day's agenda may have; 3 dozen cupcakes intricately decorated for your party theme; a Saturday of fun activites, lunch and of course, ice cream with Cheryl Jones; vegetarian Indian dinner for 5 delivered to your home; an authentic UM hockey jersey; 2 UM vs. EMU football tickets on the 40 yd line; custom portrait-oil on canvas-9"x9" -single subject.

Please link to the attached calendar to see where you can offer an hour of volunteer time for the auction. Setting up and taking down 68 tables can go quickly with many hands! See set-up and clean-up---we need help.

http://www.doodle.com/aiq7rv4h4eqymrpa

If you would like to offer an auction testimonial or have questions or need information:

Lisa Kohn
lkohn@umich.edu
734-417-7129

King School PTO for the 2009-2010 school year

Here is a wonderful opportunity to get involved at King School & with the PTO. Become a member of the 2009-2010 Executive Board of Directors or be the Chairperson of an event or committee. There is something for everyone!

Do you have a busy daytime schedule? There are many events & committees that are needed outside of school hours! Some of these events are...Bagels & Buns, Bingo Night, Borders Book Fair, E-mail List Coordinator, Green Baxter Court PTO Liaison, Ice Cream Social, International Night, King of Hearts Family 5K, King Spirit Wear, Newcomers Network, Newsletter Editor, Outdoor Sign, Silent Auction, Volunteer Recruitment, Webmaster, & more!

Do you want to volunteer during the school day? Check out these committees...Community Action, Bulletin Boards, First Day Packets, Friday Folder Stuffing, Healthy Students, Lunchtime Enrichment, Safety Chair, Scholastic Book Fair, Teacher Appreciation, Turkey Trot, & more!

Go to the website below for the nomination form & detailed descriptions of every single position. There are more than 50 positions available & need to be filled!
http://king.a2schools.org/king.pto/files/file.pdf

Nominate yourself today! Nomination forms are due to the King School office (PTO mailbox) by Thursday, April 9. OR, nominate yourself by sending the information on the nomination form to kingpto@gmail.com. Please let us know if you are a current Chairperson & would like to continue chairing the same event/committee.

Thank you for volunteering...and here's to a fantastic 2009-2010 year!

No School - Monday, April 6

Monday, April 6, 2009:
Ann Arbor Public Schools is closed today due to the weather.

King School Twitter

I've recently set up a King School Twitter. If you are a twitter user, you might find it interesting to follow at http://twitter.com/King_School.

If you don't use Twitter, you can also access the same information on the front page of the MLK website at http://king.a2schools.org.

Green School/Earth Day Update

Thanks to Dr. M. for sharing the info below about upcoming Green School and Earth Week activities AND thanks to the 5th grade and student council for all of their work on these initiatives!

Earth Posters
Students are creating posters in art to be displayed during Earth Week.

Voting on a King School RAPTOR
Students are learning about the eight raptors found at the Leslie Science Center. They will vote on April 9th to see which raptor we will adopt. Students will then be asked to earn $.25-$.50 by doing jobs at home or with neighbors. All money will be collected during Earth Week.

Hunters of the Sky
We are gearing up for a wonderful week after spring break. April 20th (9-9:50 a.m. for K-2; 10- 10:50 a.m. for 3-5) we have a presentation by Leslie Science Center- Hunters of the Sky, to kick off our week. The poster winner will have a special part in the performance. We will also get to meet the raptor that we are adopting!


Earth Day Festival
The entire 5th grade is responsible (with teacher help of course J ) for setting up our Earth Day Festival at King. The festival is April 22nd and is going to be tons of fun! (12:40- 1:40 p.m. K-2, 2:15-3:30 for 3rd, 2- 3:30 for 4th graders) Our class is responsible for ladder ball trivia about macro-invertebrates and a great magnetic fishing game, fishing for macro-invertebrates. The macro-invertebrates we are studying are those found in the Huron River. This is shaping up to be a wonderful leadership opportunity for our 5th graders and an incredible learning opportunity for the entire school about environmental issues that are literally right in our backyard.

THE ELEMENTARY SUMMER LEARNING INSTITUTE RETURNS…AND EXPANDS!

The Elementary Summer Learning Institute will run from Monday, July 6, through Friday, July 31 and bussing will be available. The kindergarten, 2nd grade and 3rd grade program will be conducted at Ann Arbor Open at Mack Elementary School (920 Miller) and the 5th grade program will be at Forsythe Middle School (1655 Newport). Students who have not yet reached grade level reading targets or have not yet reached a secure target on selected math outcomes are eligible.

Bussing will be available for all four programs.

In order to attend, students must be referred by their classroom teacher. Teachers and principals are just now receiving applications for the program. If your child has been referred and you have further questions, please contact your child’s teacher. With further questions, feel free to contact the Summer Learning Institute principal, Ché Carter at carterc@aaps.k12.mi.us.

Thanks PTO For Our UMS Field Trips This Year

Thank you to the King PTO for again sponsoring a University Musical Society youth performance for every child at our school. The kindergarteners had a great time at the Dan Zanes concert this Monday. They told me they got to dance like a train and then proceeded to demonstrate their newly found conga skills. The first graders got to experience the highly acclaimed Sweet Honey in the Rock in February and the second graders were wowed by The Soweto Gospel Choir from South Africa in October. They said it sounded like music from “The Lion King,” only better. Grades 3-5 got a lesson in swing from the incomparable Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center. He is an amazing teacher and the kids learned so much. The most often heard comment from them was “I wish they would have played more.”

We are so lucky to live in a city that is regularly visited by some of the world’s most talented artists, and even more lucky to have a PTO that recognizes the value and meaning these cultural experiences bring to kids. Thank you.

Mrs. Vanek