Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Free e-Waste Recycling Event

9 a.m. - 2 p.m. 
Saturday, April 24
Location:  Pioneer High School Parking Lot
601 W Stadium Blvd at Main St   (Map it.)

Recycle your e-waste: it's quick, easy, and earth-friendly!
   * computer systems
   * monitors
   * telephones/cell phones
   * televisions
   * speakers
   * printers
   * wires/cables
   * modems
   * PLUS MUCH MORE! 
 
Drive Through, Drop Off, and We'll Take Care of the Rest
   * All e-Waste will be destroyed and 100% recycled in the
United States in an environmentally sound manner by a fully permitted recycling facility.
   * Security precautions are made throughout the recycling process to ensure all data is destroyed.

Everyone Is Invited
   * Tell your friends and neighbors in southeast Michigan.
   * Small businesses and non-profits with large quantities of equipment are invited to participate in the Institutional eWaste Event on April 22-23. Click here for more information on the institution event.
 
Save Our Land and Water Systems and Responsibly Recycle Your e-Waste
   * Protect the environment. Keep hazardous electronic equipment out of landfills.
   * Conserve natural resources. Materials in your electronics are highly reusable.
 
Events co-sponsored by the University of Michigan Office of Campus Sustainability and local partners.
 
For tips on recycling your e-Waste at other times, see the article from Planet Green.
 
Recycling services provided by Apple.

What part of PTO will you play in 2010-2011?

Please consider chairing or co-chairing a PTO function in the 2010-2011 school year. Our PTO will need Board representation including, President, Vice President and Secretary. You will have the support of previous chairs and other PTO members who are familiar with events to help you navigate a position. Positions to consider: Newsletter (monthly), PTOC rep (learn what is going on throughout the district), Grocery cards, Teacher Appreciation, AA Parent Advisory (AAPAC)--represents King at district meeting for children with IEP's or 504 plans, Disability Awareness workshop Chair, Grade Level Reps and many other positions that support our children and our strong school. 

Questions or information? email kingpto@gmail.com. You may also contact Lisa Kohn, lkohn@umich.edu.

Type To Learn Software Available At Home

Parents and guardians of students in grades 3-5, please check your child's backpack for a green letter that details the instructions for using Type to Learn at home.  This online version can be downloaded at no cost onto most home computers, and with your child's login information it will provide customized lessons paced just right for his/her progress and ability.

This can only be accomplished by using the instructions and passwords provided on the green letter titled "Important News." If you cannot locate this letter, please email me and I will send another copy home.

Unfortunately, the school and district cannot supply technical support should you encounter problems with this process, but it has been tested in many homes and it seems to work well.  Keyboarding skills are so very important to this generation of children, and we're happy that we can provide you with a way to support their progress at home. And the bonus is: the kids love it!
 
Thanks, Ann O'Keefe
okeefea@aaps.k12.mi.us

Bagels And Bun - 4/16 @ 8:20

Bagels and Buns is this Friday, April 16th starting at 8:20 A.M. - 8:48A.M.

Join us for Starbucks coffee and a conversation.

Please come enjoy a cup of coffee and a bagel in the company of other King school parents.

Bagel and cream cheese - $1
Bun - $2
Orange juice - 50c
 
Thank you,
Christina Nedeltchev

An Auction Update from the Ohio State - King Elementary School Contingent

Support is pouring in from formerly unknown OSU fans at King School. Momentum is strong and we are confident that Mr. Karr will look particularly rosie in a scarlet and gray jersey. Contact TBrodkey@gmail.com for more information about pooling funds to win this silent auction item.

Auction Chair Note - "As promised - I am honoring the requests of the Ohio State fans at GREAT personal angst. In the name of fund raising - we appreciate the OSU efforts and will accept their donation willingly - but COME ON UM people - we do LIVE in Ann Arbor - won't this be an embarrassment to see Mr. Karr in "scarlett" and grey? Ugh... This is painful!!"
- Alena Stocking

Eat At The Silent Auction

Pre-order your buffet dinner for the King Silent Auction now.  Cost is $8 per person for one trip down the buffet line ($10 at the door).  Menu includes a delicious array of food from local restaurants:  Tios, Temptations, Evergreen, & Jerusalem Garden.  You'll get a chance to sample all four cuisines.  Whole pizzas (cheese or pepperoni) may be pre-ordered too.  Pizzas are $10 or $1.50/slice.  Pre-order today...pay at the auction!  
 
Cut off the coupon at the bottom and submit to Silent Auction mailbox in office by Tuesday, April 20th OR even easier, e-mail your order to:  kingpto@gmail.com .

Volunteer @ Silent Auction

Silent Auction is on April 23! Volunteers are still
needed to make the event run smoothly. Please
consider helping that evening.  Help is really 
needed with selling food at the food table and 
also in the file room. Please use the doodle link to
sign up!
 
http://www.doodle.com/4wdcser83m6nap6w 
 
Submitted by Rachel Sabb

Thursday, April 01, 2010

UPDATE: Extended Day Option for 2010-11

King School will house two Extended Day Option kindergarten classes for the 2010-11 school year. All families who have signed up for EDO at this point will have a spot in EDO. There will be no lottery. Again, all families who applied for EDO will have a spot for next school year.

In addition there are approximately 9 spots left for EDO. Those spots will be filled on a first come, first served basis. Families who are interested should fill out EDO paperwork and turn it into Rec and Ed as soon as possible.

For more information, click here.

ALERT: 2nd grade open house date correction

ALERT

The 2nd grade open house/music night date was incorrectly written in Mr. Karr's section of the April 1 newsletter.

The correct date for the event is Thursday, April 29, NOT May 29

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

PHOTOS related to covert operation occurring . . .

s

Covert Operation Occurring . . .

NOTE FROM MR. KARR - The piece below showed up in the eNotes recently. My thought: It says a lot when you have to pay to have someone wear you team's colors!
_____________________________________

As some of you may know, Mr. Karr has offered to "Wear the School Colors of your Choice" to 2 winning bidders as an item at the Silent Auction. As a neutral party (but not really) - I must share information that has been passed on to me. The Ohio State contingent is rallying their resources to ENSURE they see Mr. Karr is scarlet and grey. If you would like information on contributing to the OSU effort - please contact Terri Brodkey (tbrodkey@gmail.com). Are there MSU fans out there that would enjoy the same fate for Mr. Karr? Even Notre Dame? OR - are there Michigan folks that can pool resources to ensure BOTH winning bidder spots are guaranteed to keep Mr. Karr safe.

As chairperson of the auction, I cannot rally the fans - but I am sure there are some competitive people out there that can lead the charge. If you pull something together - we'll have one heck of a time on April 23 at the Auction - wondering where this will end up. If you want to lead a team.... contact me and I will ensure fair and equitable communication of your cause.

Alena Stocking, Auction Chair, alena.stocking@gmail.com

Silent Auction - April 23

Donations for the Silent Auction are in and the creative work now begins on the catalog, which is guaranteed to give you a giggle.  Donations will still be accepted and added as an addendum to be available the night of the auction. 
 
Mark your calendars - and join us on April 23.  There will be a magician, face painting - and great food.  If you can't make it - proxy bidding is encouraged so you can take home that special item.  You will be WOWed by what our community has put together this year...  Korean Dinner, Bayou Party, 200 Squishies, autographed photos of silver medalists Meryl Davis & Charlie White, and so much more.  Let the anticipation start...  we're in for a great ride in April. 
 
Enjoy spring break and look for your catalog shortly after.  Any questions?   Contact Alena Stocking, Auction Chair, alena.stocking@gmail.com

Eat At The Silent Auction

Pre-order your buffet dinner for the King Silent Auction now.  Cost is $8 per person for one trip in the buffet line ($10 if you don't pre-order).  Menu includes a delicious array of food...Chinese, Indian, Middle Eastern, & Mexican.  You'll get a chance to sample all four cuisines.  Whole pizzas (cheese or pepperoni) may be pre-ordered too.  Pizzas are $10.  Slices will be sold the night of the auction.  Pre-order today...pay at the auction!  
 
To pre-order, please send an e-mail to kingpto@gmail.comwith the following information:
* Your name & e-mail
* Number of buffet dinners ordering (to help us order appropriately, please indicate which cuisine you prefer for each dinner ordered)
* Number of whole cheese pizzas
* Number of whole pepperoni pizzas
 
We can't wait to see you at the King Silent Auction on April 23!

Silent Auction Volunteers Needed

Please consider volunteering your time on Friday, April 23, during the Silent Auction.  Positions need to be filled in order for the auction to run smoothly.  Here is the doodle link:   http://www.doodle.com/4wdcser83m6nap6w

Successful Disability Awareness Workshop

On Friday, March 26th, King School had its Disability Awareness Workshop for all 4th grade students.  This is the fourth year for the workshop at King and it was another great success.  Without all the help from school staff, parent volunteers and community members, it would not be possible to hold this event.
 
Sincere thanks go to the many volunteers who made it possible for students to experience this interactive day.
 
Kathy Grijalva
King parent & workshop coordinator
 
King parents
Dawn Baker              Didi Massell
Darla Dubin               Tia McPike-McDyess
Susan Gechter           Amy Meltzer
Jia-Huey Jow             Wayne Millette
Beth Kimball               Eileen Rich
Lisa Kohn                  Ingrid Sheldon
Anamika Laddha          Line Van Nieuwstadt
Francine MacBride       Diana Wong
 
King staff
Kevin Karr
4th grade teachers Judy Knorr, Rabia Shafie (Ms. Jakubowski substituting), & Seth Petty
Nicole Melendez (student teacher for Mrs. Jarjoura)
Keeli O'Keefe (student teacher for Dr. Michalik)
Ami Ottoni (student teacher for Ms. Lake)
Mary Greene
Julie Arbour
Greg Harris
 
Community Members
Anirban Sahu & Claire Northway, UM medical students
Barb Byers, Dicken Elementary School parent
Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living volunteers, especially Carolyn Grawi, Director of Advocacy and Education
Steve Schwartz

Monday, March 29, 2010

UPDATED: Summer Learning Institute (aka Summer School) Information

March 25, 2010

Dear Elementary School Parents,

As you know, our district is facing severe budget decisions. The district is looking at every possible source for revenue to address the reductions. We initially shared with you the decision to charge tuition for elementary summer school. We have reconsidered this decision. The Summer School (SLI) will be at NO COST to students this year. We will work to cover these expenses in a different manner. The rest of this letter contains the same information we sent to you earlier. If your child is recommended to attend SLI, we hope you take advantage of this powerful learning opportunity.

We are very pleased to share that the district will continue our popular elementary summer school program—better known as the Summer Learning Institute.

We will continue to meet the needs of students entering first and third grades who have not yet secured skills reflected in the “end of year” report card outcomes.

The Summer Learning Institute (SLI) for in-coming first graders will be 4 weeks long, from July 6 to July 30. The Summer Learning Institute will be located at Ann Arbor Open at Mack School. Because we want this learning experience to be both developmentally appropriate and academically successful, the classroom instruction will be an integration of explicit literacy and math strategies, enriched with kinesthetic movement through music. The summer school teachers are some of the best, most effective teachers in our district. Teachers will rotate between literacy instruction and mathematics for every 15 first grade students. Parents will be invited to join the class on Friday of each week for ongoing parent involvement activities in addition to the parent orientation and evening open house.

We will continue to offer a robust 4-week SLI experience in a 1:15 teacher/student ratio setting from July 6 to July 30 for incoming third grade students who are transitioning to the next grade but have not yet mastered essential end-of-year outcomes in reading and mathematics. All students will receive focused literacy and mathematics instruction. Curricula will concentrate on number sense skills along with reading informational and narrative text. Additionally, students will be appropriately matched with 3 powerful technology supported literacy programs: Read 180, Systems 44 and/or Read About.


Your student’s principal and/or classroom teacher will notify you later this spring if your child is eligible to attend the Summer Learning Institute. We urge you to take advantage of this highly successful summer experience. It is very important that all our children begin the next school year confidently and comfortably ready to succeed. Your child’s academic success is very important to us.

Do not hesitate to ask your student’s teacher about this exceptional opportunity. More information regarding summer school events and afternoon camp opportunities will be coming. If you have further questions, please contact your child’s principal.

Respectfully,

Lee Ann Dickinson-Kelley
Administrator for Elementary Education
Ann Arbor Public Schools



Thursday, March 25, 2010

AAPSNews Budget Edition

A special budget edition of the AAPSNews is now available online. This edition is published to share information with the community about the proposed 2010-11 budget which was presented to the Board of Education on Wednesday night. Visit  http://news.a2schools.org 

In this edition:
• A letter from Superintendent Todd Roberts explaining the proposed budget and the district's approach moving forward. Two community budget meetings are scheduled in April to discuss the proposal with the public. Community members are also encouraged to participate in Action Teams this spring, looking at short- and long-term needs for the district.
• Detailed budget numbers as proposed by the district's administrative team.
• Questions and Answers about frequently asked questions surrounding the budget.
• Schools of Choice program for Washtenaw County students is approved by board.

A PDF print edition is also available at the site. You may also click on "subscribe" at the site for an e-mail or RSS feed subscriptions.

School board approves limited Schools of Choice plan for in-county residents

The Ann Arbor Public Schools Board of Education has approved a limited
Schools of Choice policy that would allow families from throughout
Washtenaw County to consider attending school here.


Enrollment will be limited to selected elementary schools with 60
seats in kindergarten and 60 in first grade; 50 seats also will open
at the sixth-grade level in any of the district's middle schools. The
board approved the measure at a second reading on March 25.

Applications for the Schools of Choice seats will be accepted from
April 1-30 and must be postmarked during that time period. Applicants
will be notified of their status by May 15 via the U.S. mail. Student
acceptance is conditional until the Ann Arbor Public Schools receives
and reviews all school records, according to information from the
district's application process.

The addition of 170 out-of-district students would bring new revenue
to the district, as state funding is based on per-pupil head counts.
Section 105 of the State School Aid Act allows local school districts
to enroll students who reside in the same intermediate school
district. Schools of Choice students would bring the dollars normally
allocated to their district of residence, according to the provision.

Ann Arbor elementary schools that have openings include: Abbot,
Bryant, Carpenter, Dicken, Eberwhite, Lakewood, Logan, Northside,
Pittsfield and Wines. Middle schools include: Clague, Forsythe,
Scarlett, Slauson and Tappan.

Once a student has been accepted, they can stay within the Ann Arbor
Public Schools for the remainder of their K-12 education, even if the
district decides not to continue to enroll new students through
Schools of Choice in the future, school officials said.

If the number of qualified non-resident applications eligible for
acceptance exceeds the number of seats available, a random draw system
will be used to make a selection. A waiting list will be maintained
for the remaining applications and prioritized through random draw.


Residents of Washtenaw County public school districts are eligible to
apply. These include: Chelsea, Dexter, Lincoln, Manchester, Milan,
Saline, Whitmore Lake, Willow Run and Ypsilanti.

For information or to register for Schools of Choice in Ann Arbor,
call the Department of Student Enrollment at 734-994-2249.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

King PTO 2010-11 - We Need You!

Coming home in backpacks this week is the nominating/volunteering form for PTO positions for 2010-2011.  Included with this is a job description list with a summary of responsibilities.  Please give some serious consideration to volunteering for one of the positions for our next school year.   Take pride in the fact that King School has a long tradition of active parent participation and especially with PTO functions.   Wondering what's involved in chairing a function?  Send your questions tokingpto@gmail.com or contact any PTO board member.  

Submitted by Lisa Kohn
Chair for Nominating Committee
lkohn@umich.edu  

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Bagels and Buns - Friday, March 19 @ 8:15

Bagels and Buns is this Friday, March 19th starting at 8:00 A.M. -
8:48A.M during Book Fair.

Join us for Starbucks coffee and a conversations.

Please come enjoy a cup of coffee and a bagel in the company of other
King school parents.


Bagel and cream cheese - $1
Bun - $2
Orange juice - 50c.

It's Book Fair Week!!!

The King School Scholastic & Used Book Fairs are here!  Students will have the opportunity to purchase both new & used books when they visit the book fairs with their class on Thursday.  If you send money with your child to purchase books from the fairs, please make sure the money is in a sealed envelope or ziploc bag with your child's first & last name on it. 
 
Shopping times are:
 
Thursday, 3/18
 
8:45 am - 3:45 pm     (STUDENT SHOPPING ONLY)
 
3:45 pm - 8:30 pm     (Open to the Public)
 
**Join us at 6:30 pm for a grand event...50's music while you shop the book fairs!
 
Friday, 3/19
 
8:00 am - 9:30 am     (Open to the Public)
 
**Shop when you come to school for Bagels & Buns.
 
There will be many terrific books & deals offered by Scholastic Books.  The Scholastic Book Fair will be on the stage.  The Used Book Fair will be in the multipurpose room.  You will find wonderful books for both adults & children.  Prices for the used book fair range from $.50 - $2.00.

Donations for the Used Book Fair are being collected through Wednesday.  We look forward to seeing you at the book fairs!

King Silent Auction Donations Being Accepted!!

There still time to donate to the Silent Auction!  In years past some of the most popular items have been workshops or parties put together you King Families.   Maybe you enjoy gardening - considering donating a couple of hours of your time to help help someone prepare their garden for spring planting.  Or maybe you're interested in meeting new families?  Why not host a cocktail party or other social event in your home?  
Have an idea but aren't sure how to put it together?  Call or email me - or any other members of the Silent Auction Committee and we'll get you started!

Thank you in advance for your support!

Francine MacBride

Monday, March 15, 2010

AAPSNews - March 15 Edition

The March 15 edition of the AAPSNews district newsletter is available online. In this edition:
• Burns Park Elementary recognized as a hub for the arts
• PTO Council launches advocacy effort to educate about school funding
• Geologist-teacher from Bach continues lessons from life on the ice
• Teen team certified in safety following Huron readiness event
• Local librarians show Skyline students the research ropes
• School news in brief: Pioneer administrator honored, 2 Community teams
head for state mock trial competition, Board names Stead as new trustee,
plus more.

Visit http://news.a2schools.org to view new stories and photos. (The site may also be accessed through a link on the main school district Web page.)

Tuesday, March 09, 2010

Used Book Fair Collection Starts This Week!

Our collection will begin today on Tuesday March 9th.  We thank you for your donations of books, CDs, DVDs, VHS tapes, video games, computer games, puzzles and board games.  They can be dropped off in your child's classrooms or in the boxes by the school office or front entrance.  Look for the giant ice cream cone (Thanks to Susie Lum!) by the front entrance to see how many items we've collected.  Our goal is over 4,000!  

A big thank you to all the students who made posters and wrote book reviews.  We have over 60 submissions so far!  The deadline for your poster has past but you can still turn in your book review by Friday March 12th. 

Please also consider donating an hour of your time to help us prepare for the Used Book Fair.  To volunteer, go to:  http://doodle.com/2xemax4x278dd6vb .  If you have any questions, please email me at syaldrich@gmail.com .

Thank you!

Sandy Aldrich

Additional Volunteers Needed At Book Fairs

The King School Scholastic & Used Book Fairs are next week.  Check out our website about the fairs at: 
 
 
Look for additional information about the Book Fairs in your child's Friday Folder this week!
 
We need additional volunteers to help at the Book Fairs on Thursday, 3/18 between 9:00 am - 9:00 pm and on Friday, 3/19 between 8:00 am - 1:00 pm.  Volunteer for as little as an hour or two, or all day!
 
To volunteer, go to: http://www.doodle.com/37k43ggfv8zyvpq9 
 
In advance, thank you for your help!

-Sandy Aldrich, Diane Alson, & Susan Gechter

King Silent Auction Donations Being Accepted!!

We are in full gear for the silent auction - held April 23.  Volunteers are canvassing our business supporters - and our community is at it again with creative donations from our families and King teachers and Staff!  Mr. Clarkson is donating an experience at his homemade ice rink for next winter... how fun!  The airplane ride is back....  as are Mom's Night out.... plus tubing on Whitmore Lake, Japanese Language Lessons, Cheesemaking class, and more!  Help us add to these unique King experiences by donating today!  Get creative - it can be a lot of fun!  Pick up a pink sheet in the office, or e-mail king.silent.auction@gmail.com and include:

Contact Information (name, address, phone, e-mail)
Item for Donation
Description of the Item
Value of the Item
Any Restrictions or Expirations
Program Credit Information

Donations need to be in by March 31 to make it into the Auction book.  Any donations beyond this point are accepted (very willingly) but will be put into an addendum!

Thank you so much!!   -Alena Stocking, Auction Chair

Silent Auction Catalog Cover Contest

One of the highlights of the Silent Auction is the catalog filled with all of the incredible and generous donations by King families and community members.  It also features a cover with an original work of art!  Here is an opportunity for your child to have their artwork featured and reproduced hundreds of times!  To be considered, the artwork should meet the following specifications:

- Artwork should include color.
- Artwork should be on a white piece of paper.  The dimensions of the art should be 3 inches wide and 4 inches tall.
- Artwork that fits the theme "Spring for King" will have priority.
 
Please drop off the artwork in the King Silent Auction box in the office by April 1.

Feel free to contact Amy Cell with any questions,AmyECell@yahoo.com . 

Box Tops Competition

Just a reminder that the Box Tops competition is coming!  Between April 26th and May 21st, classrooms will compete to see who can bring in the most Box Tops.  The winning classroom will be treated to a party and year of bragging rights! 
 
Box Tops appear on all sorts of items you use every day - Cheerios cereal, Ziploc bag boxes and Kleenex boxes.  Box Tops are an easy way to support King School.  They bring in around $800 annually, all for little exta effort.  Thanks for your support!
 
Submitted by: Sarah Helmich, Box Top Chair

Hungry? Eat At Quiznos

Go to the Quiznos Sub on Plymouth Road (in the PlymouthGreenShopping Center - around the corner from Busch's) any weekend in March & Quiznos will donate 15% of your purchase to the King PTO!
 
Just tell the staff that you are making a purchase on behalf of KingElementary School when you place your order.  No voucher is needed.  
 
Contact kingpto@gmail.com  with any questions.

Thursday, March 04, 2010

Extended Day Option Kindergarten Update for 2010-11

For incoming kindergarten families, I want to let you know I am exploring the possibility of opening up more than one Extended Day Option  (EDO) Kindergarten program for the 2010-11 school year.  

What is EDO Kindergarten?  It is a program that combines the traditional half-day kindergarten program with a half-day of fee-based day care.  This program has always been successful and highly sought after for King families who need to have a full-day program for their children.  It is also appealing because children stay with their teacher all day, even during the day care portion of the day.

How will the determination be made as to whether there will be one or two programs at King in 2010-11?  I am confident we will have one EDO at King in the fall.  If there is enough interest from families, we will open a second program as well.

If you'd like to know more about EDO, please click the link below:

If you have any questions, please email or call us at school (994-1940).

Sincerely,
Kevin Karr

Lost And Found Will Be Emptied - April 1

The King School Lost and Found will be emptied at the end of the day
on April 1. Teachers will give students opportunities to pick their
things up, but parents may also want to stop by to look for their
child's belongings.

Wednesday, March 03, 2010

Silent Auction Catalog Cover Art Contest

One of the highlights of the Silent Auction is the catalog filled with all of the incredible and generous donations by King families and community members.  It also features a cover with an original work of art!  Here is an opportunity for your child to have their artwork featured and reproduced hundreds of times!  To be considered, the artwork should meet the following specifications:

- Artwork should include color.
- Artwork should be on a white piece of paper.  The dimensions of the art should be 3 inches wide and 4 inches tall.
- Artwork that fits the theme "Spring for King" will have priority.
 
Please drop off the artwork in the King Silent Auction box in the office by April 1.

Feel free to contact Amy Cell with any questions,AmyECell@yahoo.com . 

PTO Council Advocacy Committee

Hello,

I am excited to announce the kick-off of the PTO Council's new advocacy committee.  We will be holding our first meeting on Thursday, March 5 at 9 am in the Main Conference room at BALAS, 2555 S State St, 48108.

The purpose of the committee is to voice the concerns of Ann Arbor Public School Parents on state level school financing issues.

An action plan will be defined by the Advocacy Committee but will likely include:
o    Developing talking points for approval by PTO Council 
o    Joining rally efforts by other Parent Advocacy Groups with similar objectives (SOS, MPFS, or MiPTSA)
o    Attending legislative coffees of announced candidates for fall election
o    Joining parents in Ypsilanti, Dexter and other Washtenaw County School Districts to bolster efforts 
 
Our proposed timetable is:
Mar.     Inaugural meeting - Advocacy training and action
           plan drafted
April     Talking points and action plan approved by PTO
           Council
May     Active advocacy begins

What the committee needs to be successful is MEMBERS!   Please join us and let's find out how powerful our voices as parents can be.

RSVP
Donna Lasinski
734-997-7265
 
Submitted by Gitanjli McRoy, King PTOC Representative

King Silent Auction Donations Being Accepted!!

We are in full gear for the silent auction - held April 23.  Volunteers are canvassing our business supporters - and our community is at it again with creative donations from our families and King teachers and Staff!  Mr. Clarkson is donating an experience at his homemade ice rink for next winter... how fun!  The airplane ride is back....  as are Mom's Night out.... plus tubing on Whitmore Lake, Japanese Language Lessons, Cheesemaking class, and more!  Help us add to these unique King experiences by donating today!  Get creative - it can be a lot of fun!  Pick up a pink sheet in the office, or e-mail king.silent.auction@gmail.com and include:

Contact Information (name, address, phone, e-mail)
Item for Donation
Description of the Item
Value of the Item
Any Restrictions or Expirations
Program Credit Information

Donations need to be in by March 31 to make it into the Auction book.  Any donations beyond this point are accepted (very willingly) but will be put into an addendum!

Thank you so much!!   -Alena Stocking, Auction Chair

Volunteers Needed at Book Fairs!

We need volunteers to help at the King School Scholastic & Used Book Fairs on Thursday, 3/18 and Friday, 3/19.  Help us run the fairs throughout the day (including restocking, organizing, assisting students, cashier, and more) and/or taking it apart/clean-up.   Volunteer for as little as an hour or two, or all day!
 
To volunteer, go to:
http://www.doodle.com/37k43ggfv8zyvpq9 

Please contact Susan Gechter at susbg@comcast.net with any questions you might have.  In advance, thank you for your help! 
 
-Sandy Aldrich, Diane Alson, & Susan Gechter

Used Book Fair Collection

We will begin collecting items for the Used Book Fair on Tuesday March 9th.  This is a great opportunity to clean house and donate books, CDs, DVDs, VHS tapes, video games, computer games, puzzles and board games.  They can be dropped off in your child's classrooms or in the boxes by the school office or front entrance. Let's make this an amazing event for our King students!  

Please also consider donating an hour of your time to help us prepare for the Used Book Fair.  To volunteer, go to:  http://doodle.com/2xemax4x278dd6vb .  

If you have any questions, please email me atsyaldrich@gmail.com .

Thank you!

Sandy Aldrich

No School For Students - March 8, 2010

As a reminder there is no school for elementary students on March 8,
2010. Teachers will be writing report cards for students.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Book Fair Diner ... All You Can Read!

The King School Book Fairs (Scholastic & Used) are coming...March 18 & March 19. But before we can serve up our scrumptious menu to our amazing kids at King, we need lots of prep help!

Please donate all those books, DVDs, CDs, Video and Computer games collecting dust on your shelves and drawers. Book and media collection will begin Tuesday, March 9th and go through Wednesday, March 17th. They can be dropped off in your child's classrooms or in the boxes by the school office or front entrance. If you have large quantities to donate, please email me (syaldrich@gmail.com) and we can make arrangements for pick up.

Each student will receive 2 coupons to allow them to select 2 paperback children's books at the used book fair. Students can make "All You Can Read!" posters or write book reviews to earn additional coupons. A flyer with additional details will be sent home on February 19 in the Friday Folders. Posters will be due by March 5th and Book Reviews by March 12th.

The Used Book Fair team is also looking for volunteers to help build boxes (3/5 3 - 4:30pm), collect and sort used books (3/9 - 3/17 9-10:30am) and set up (3/17 1-3pm). Please click here to sign up.

Thank you for your support!

Used Book Fair Team

Tuesday, February 09, 2010

No School - 2/10/2010

There will be no school on 2/10/2010 due to the weather.

Stay warm!

King Students Win State Chess Title

On February 6, King's K-5 chess team of Shangbo Liao, Ryan Li, Joy
Chen, and Andrew Alson won the state title with a perfect 5-0 score.
Our K-3 team of Aayush Unadkat, Jonathan Zou, Vallan Roan, and Anthony
Liao scored 4-1 and was the state co-champion (with Logan) despite
being the ninth ranked team at the start of the tournament. A second
K-5 team of Christopher Zou, Taka Fetters, Kobie Mueller, and Gavin
McGuckin also did well. Eight of the players also won individual
medals. Over the last three years, King has been the top chess
elementary school in the state, winning the K-5 title outright all
three years, and being K-3 co-champions twice, and finishing in second
the third time. Ray Garrison, long-time chess teacher at King and
other local schools, has coached all of these teams. Please
congratulate all of these kids on their hard work!

After-School Activities Cancelled - 2/9/10

All AAPS after-school activities including athletics, K Round Ups, PTO meetings, and Rec & Ed activities are cancelled for this afternoon and evening.

No decision has been made yet about tomorrow. If the district is closed we will be sending a message to parents via the SchoolMessenger system as well as all the usual media outlets.

PHOTO: Mrs. Gatonez's Class Recently Posted Their How To Writing In The Hallway - NICE JOB!

Monday, February 08, 2010

King Elementary School International Night, 2.4.10 - a set on Flickr

Click the link below to see photos from the 2010 King School
International Night

http://www.flickr.com/photos/36693965@N04/sets/72157623229799147/

2010-11 Enrollment Survey

Please watch for the 2010-11 Enrollment Survey in student backpacks on
Monday, February 8. Please fill out the enrollment survey and return
the paper portion of the survey to school by Wednesday, February 17.
Thank you.

King International Night Thanks!

hello everyone!
 
Thanks for all your help making king intl night a great success. We could not have done it without you. Thanks to all the performers, teachers, parents, friends, families for all your hard work putting together such a wonderful program! Special thanks to all our King School teachers and staff for supporting this great event. And thanks to everyone who just jumped in at the end and did what needed to be done.
 
Special thanks to Queen of the Feast Lisa Kohn; Music Maestro Mrs. Vanek; Music Tech Mr. Vanek; Tech Team Leader Wulue Zhao; Security and Parking Czar Carl and Linda Ryan; Stage Managers Sujata Shetty, Wayne Millette, Kirti Karia; Display Divas: Padma Anupindi and Sandra Wong; Red Envelope Team Daphne Lin, Jen Wang, Eileen Rich, Sharat Shetty, Hao Hao and Niu Niu Wang Pontius, Clague Alumni; Photographers Mauricio Moeller, Thomas Kanjirath, Margot Wang Pontius; Stage Decoration Meghna Chauhan and Hao Hao Wang Pontius; Bagels and Bananas Laura Boudette; Principal Karr, Mrs. Greene, Ms. Basta, Mrs. Jarjoura, Greg Harris, Cliff Williams, King Care, King PTO, and YOU!!
 
We had about 325-350 students in 23 performances on and off stage in 90 minutes and about 800 people for dinner. Michigan State Representative Pam Byrnes came by to check us out, as well as AnnArbor.com. Look for our photos in AnnArbor.com. Many alums from Clague and Greenhills came back to visit as well--it says something that International Night is cool enough for teenagers to want to come back for.
 
First round of photos are out:
 
International Night I
Username: kingschool
Password: king
 
International Night Part II
Username: kingschool
Password: king
 
Please email raphaela.luzio@gmail.com if you have photos to add to the collection!
 
We are still taking DVD orders. Please checks out to King PTO for $12 and put in PTO box in office with this form:
 
I would like to purchase a 2010 King School International Night DVD set for $12!
Parent's Name
Child's Name (s)
Child's Teacher
Phone (s)
Email (print!)
Quantity
x $12 each set (check made out to King PTO)
Total amt enclosed   $

 

Thanks again everyone for a great night. Let's do it again next year!
 
–Frances Kai-Hwa Wang, King International Night Chair

Thursday, February 04, 2010

Last International Night Update

King School International Night
Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010, 6:30-8:30 pm
Sharing Cultures. Creating Bridges.

Enjoy an international potluck of amazing foods from around the world and Ann Arbor! Take a tour around the world by strolling through King School’s hallways. Watch our King School students come together to celebrate our diversity by performing Israeli Folkdance, Palestinian debka dance, Chinese Kung Fu, Japanese dance, Bolivian dance, African American Gospel Music, Tibetan dances, Korean Tae Kwon Do, American Hip-Hop, Irish dance, Indian classical Bharatha Natyam dance, Irish songs, Virginia Reel, Chinese Yo-Yo, more!

Schedule:
6:30-7:30 International Potluck (don’t be late!)
7:00-8:30 Student Performances (Performances will be simulcast into the gym.)

Please bring a dish to pass (enough to feed 18 people!)
With serving utensil
Without nuts or peanuts please!
Label with name of dish, country of origin, and ingredients

Please dress in heritage clothing

Please do not park in the circle drive.

Parents are responsible for their own children at all times. Please do not let them run wild in the hallways.

All performers should try to eat something before they come to school.

We will be taking orders for DVDs of the performance that night. Please bring your checkbook.

Please Plan Ahead to stave off grumpiness.

To volunteer to help, go to http://www.doodle.com/trvnxu4cp69msh94

Up to the minute information at www.kinginternationalnight.blogspot.com.
Frances Kai-Hwa Wang
King School International Night Ch

International Night Procedures

Dear MLK Families,

The PTO's Annual International Night will begin at 6:30 on February 5! This is one of the premier events each year 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

NAAPID - Parents Invited To School on Monday, February 8!

Dear MLK School Parents,
All parents are invited to be a part of King's plans as we observe National African American Parent Involvement Day (NAAPID) on Monday, February 8, 2010.

What is NAAPID?

NAAPID - "Take Your Child to School/Visit Your Child in School" Day

NAAPID is a national call to action to get all parents, but particularly those of African American children, more involved in the education of their children. It is expected that this national observation will open up dialogue among teachers, parents, and students, which will lead to a more conducive learning environment for all students.

What happens at NAAPID?
Parents are invited to be a part of the school day at King. This includes being a part of your child's classes—even the noon hour. You might want to bring a sack lunch and be a part of the excitement! Also, the King staff will set up a hospitality table for parents in the teacher's lounge. Please stop by and enjoy the treats!
Sincerely,
Kevin Karr and the King School NAAPID Committee

Tuesday, February 02, 2010

King International Night - Schedule! Can't Wait To See You There

Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010, 6:30-8:30 pm
Sharing Cultures. Creating Bridges.

Enjoy an international potluck of amazing foods from around the world and Ann Arbor! Take a tour around the world by strolling through King School's hallways. Watch our King School students come together to celebrate our diversity by performing Israeli Folkdance, Palestinian debka dance, Chinese Kung Fu, Japanese dance, Bolivian dance, African American Gospel Music, Tibetan dances, Korean Tae Kwon Do, American Hip-Hop, Irish dance, Indian classical Bharatha Natyam dance, Irish songs, Virginia Reel, Chinese Yo-Yo, more!

Schedule:
6:30-7:30 International Potluck (don't be late!)
7:00-8:30 Student Performances (Performances will be simulcast into the gym.)

Please bring a dish to pass (enough to feed 18 people!)
With serving utensil
Without nuts or peanuts please!
Label with name of dish, country of origin, and ingredients

Please dress in heritage clothing
 
Do not be late and be prepared for parking difficulties (one year the Superintendent had to park over a mile away on Erhardt Road!). Please do not park in the circle drive.
 
Please make sure everyone is well rested and well fed. Plan ahead to stave off grumpiness!
 
Parents are responsible for their own children at all times. Please do not let them run wild in the hallways.
 
All performers should try to eat something before they come to school and come a little bit early.
 
Parents should take some time to admire the wonderful art and projects posted on the walls around the school.
 
We will be taking orders for DVDs of the performance that night. Please bring your checkbook.
 
Don't forget to charge your camera/camcorder and clear your memory cards! This is going to be fun!

Up to the minute information atwww.kinginternationalnight.blogspot.com .

Frances Kai-Hwa Wang
King School International Night Chair
Sponsored by the King PTO

Monday, February 01, 2010

AAPSNews!

The Feb. 1 edition of the AAPSNews district newsletter is available online.
In this edition:
• Clague Middle School pals ACT-UP for friendship, mentoring
• King parents return to the classroom for Literacy Night
• Superintendent Todd Roberts thanks community, shares 2010-11 budget
timetable.
• Budget concerns make Educational Foundation more important.
• Students gain inspiration for big Forsythe Science Fair.
• Rec & Ed moving to Pioneer wing this week.
• School Bells: A series of briefs about The Ann Arbor Public Schools.

Visit http://news.a2schools.org to view new stories and photos. (The site
may also be accessed through a link on the main school district Web page.)

Sunday, January 31, 2010

Literacy Night On AnnArbor.com

The Literacy Night events last week at King School were reported in annarbor.com. Click the link below to see the article.

King Elementary School educates parents about reading, writing - AnnArbor.com

Thursday, January 28, 2010

News From The School Nurse

DEAR PARENT(S) /GUARDIAN(S),

THERE ARE SEVERAL ITEMS I WILL LIST IN THIS LETTER AS FRIENDLY
REMINDERS. THEY ARE ALL INTENED TO HELP PROMOTE THE OPTIMAL HEALTH
AND SAFETY FOR STUDENTS, FAMILIES, AND STAFF, AND, ULTIMATELY THE
COMMUNITY.

IN ORDER TO HELP PREVENT FROSTBITE, STUDENTS SHOULD BE DRESSED
ACCORDINGLY IN LAYERS OF WINTER OUTWEAR, INCLUDING, HATS, COATS,
GLOVES/ MITTENS AND BOOTS. ALSO, TYING A SCRAF AROUND THE NOSE AND
MOUTH FACILITATES THE INTAKE OF WARM, INSTEAD OF COLD AIR.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO INFORM THE SCHOOL OFFICE WHEN YOUR CHILD/CHILDREN
HAS/ HAVE A REPORTABLE COMMUNICABLE CONDITION SUCH AS STRETOCCOCAL
SORE THROAT, RING WORM (OF THE BODY AND/ OR SCALP), OR HEAD LICE.
ANNONYMOUS LETTERS ARE SENT HOME TO SHARE GENERIC INFORMATION RE: THE
SPECIFIC CONDITION TO ALL FAMILIES.

FINALLY, IN ORDER TO HELP PROTECT OUR FOOD ALLERGIC STUDENTS, PLEASE
REMIND YOUR CHILD/ CHILDREN NOT TO SHARE AND/ OR EXCHANGE FOOD.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS IMPORTANT INFORMATION.

SINCERELY,
MAZIE HAMILTON, R.N.
SCHOOL NURSE

King International Night - 2/4 from 6:30 - 8:30

King School International Night
Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010, 6:30-8:30 pm
Sharing Cultures. Creating Bridges.

Enjoy an international potluck of amazing foods from around the world and Ann Arbor! Take a tour around the world by strolling through King School's hallways. Watch our King School students come together to celebrate our diversity by performing Israeli Folkdance, Palestinian debka dance, Chinese Kung Fu, Japanese dance, Bolivian dance, African American Gospel Music, Tibetan dance, Korean Tae Kwon Do, American Hip-Hop, Irish dance, Indian classical Bharatha Natyam dance, Irish songs, Virginia Reel, more!

Schedule:
6:30-7:30 International Potluck (don't be late!)
7:00-8:30 Student Performances (Performances will be simulcast into the gym.)

Please bring a dish to pass (enough to feed 18 people!)
With serving utensil
Without nuts or peanuts please!
Label with name of dish, country of origin, and ingredients

Please dress in heritage clothing

If you would like to volunteer to help with the feast, contact Lisa Kohn NOW at lkohn@umich.edu. All hands needed for set up, clean up, serving, security--commitment is for the day of the event only.

If you have a country poster you would like to post, contact Padma Anupindi at p_anupindi@hotmail.com. This is a great family project. Make a country poster to teach about a special country or culture that you like! Posters must be flat and able to be taped to the wall. Photos are great! Creativity encouraged! No flags or politics please. 

Parents must be responsible for and with their children at ALL times. No running wild through the hallways, and NO PARKING on either side of the circular drive. Sponsored by the King PTO.

Up to the minute information at www.kinginternationalnight.blogspot.com. Thanks! See you there!

Frances Kai-Hwa Wang
International Night Chair

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Grocery Cards Available During Literacy Nights

PTO will have grocery cards available on Tuesday and Thursday  evenings during Literacy Night.  Hillers, Buschs and Whole Foods  cards will be there and if you haven't done so already, your Krogers  Plus card can be assigned to King School that night.  Please consider  trying the grocery programs--it's easy to use and helps out school.

One Week Left to Register for Science Olympiad!

Science Olympiad is a great science enrichment program with more than 13,500 participating schools nationwide. The 18 different Science Olympiad events utilize different skill sets, so all children can find something that they enjoy. More information about Science Olympiad can be found at the website http://www.aaps.k12.mi.us/wesowizards.home/home. 
Practices for the June 5th tournament will start in February or early March at King School. Please go tohttps://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CQLMWBY to register your child(ren) by January 31st.

International Night Feast

Check list for the feast:  800 paper plates, 1000 napkins, 400 chop sticks and your delicious dish.  Join King School in an International Pot Luck celebrating cuisines from around the world.   Bring a dish (e.g appetizer, entree, dessert) that serves 15 people.  Food line opens at 6:30 and most folks are through the line by 7:10, IF, big IF we have enough volunteers to assist with the buffet.  Thanks to those volunteers who have signed up.  Help is especially needed in the 30 minute blocks from 6:15 to 7:15 pm. 

The link to volunteer:

http://www.doodle.com/trvnxu4cp69msh94 

For any questions:   Lisa Kohn, lkohn@umich.edu .

Monday, January 25, 2010

Rec and Ed is Moving!!!

Community Education & Recreation (Rec&Ed) will be moving to Pioneer
High effective February 2, 2010. The department will be located in
the "E" Wing of the building, which is accessible off of S. Seventh
St. Visitors will use the new separate entrance near the tennis
courts, which will be well marked with a large rooftop sign. There
will be a drop box available 24/7 by the entrance, for those dropping
off registrations. In preparation for the move, Rec&Ed will be closed
beginning Thursday, January 28 and will re-open in the new facilities
at Pioneer on Tuesday, February 2.

PHOTO: Some Great Feature Articles Posted Outside Room 105!

Friday, January 22, 2010

SIGN UP NOW FOR LITERACY NIGHT - 1/26 or 1/28


Dear King Parents,

You are invited to Literacy Night on January 26 or 28, sponsored by the King School Improvement Team. At Literacy Night, parents will learn from King teachers about how they teach reading and writing.

The schedule for the night will be as follows:
6:20 – 6:30 Childcare drop-off in gymnasium with KingCare—school aged children only for those who sign up ahead of time

6:30 Introduction in the Multipurpose Room

6:40 - 8:30 Parents will choose and attend two sessions focusing on reading and writing:
* K-2 Reading
* 3-5 Reading
* Kindergarten writing
* 1st grade writing
* 2nd grade writing
* 3rd grade writing
* 4th grade writing
* 5th grade writing

Our goal is to have at least one parent from every family participate in Literacy Night either on 1/26 or 1/28.

If you have questions, please call the school office at 994-1940.

Sincerely,
King School Improvement Team


Wednesday, January 20, 2010

King School International Night

Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010, 6:30-8:30pm

Country Posters: Everyone is invited to make a country poster to teach
about a special country or culture that you like! This is a great
family project and an easy way to be a part of International Night.
Maps are cool, but no flags please. Posters must be able to hang flat
against the wall. Posters will be hung starting Jan. 22. Contact Padma
Anupindi p_anupindi@hotmail.com.

Thank you everyone for being a part! For more information: http://kinginternationalnight.blogspot.com

Frances Kai-Hwa Wang, King Intl Night Chair (fkwang@aol.com)

Pierogi, Sushi, Be Bim Bop, Kibbee... Volunteers Needed!

Thursday, Feb. 4th is King School's International Night and our multi-
ethnic food buffet is a fabulous part of the evening. Families are
asked to bring an ethnic dish that serves 15 to the pot luck. Your
help is needed to assist over 400 people through our food lines in 90
min (or less)!

Please use the Doodle Calendar to sign up. Your 30 minutes will go a
long way in helping.

http://www.doodle.com/trvnxu4cp69msh94p7symwec/admin

Questions or more info: Lisa Kohn lkohn@umich.edu

Silent Auction Gearing Up

It's January - but we are already in planning mode for the King School
PTO Silent Auction, which will take place April 23, 2010. In early
February information will be coming home with more details about how
you can help. We really need everyone in the school to participate -
in whatever way you can - by donating, volunteering, attending - or
all three. The silent Auction contributes to 50% of the PTO budget
and supports teachers in the classroom, International Night, Literacy
Night, Field Trips and much, much, more. In order to minimize our
costs for the auction and insure as much revenue can to to the school
- below are a list of items needed to help us run the auction. Every
little thing helps - so if you have these items stashed somewhere at
home - we'll take them off your hands!

LABELS - that can used in printers
PLASTIC WEAR
PLATES
NAPKINS
NICER PAPER (for certificates - must be printer capable)

Also, if anyone knows of budding entertainers (ie. magicians, balloon
makers, clowns, face painters) - that would be willing to donate their
time and provide entertainment - we'd really appreciate any names!!

Please contact the King Silent Auction crew by using our new e-mail
address: king.silent.auction@gmail.com .

Thanks so much.... here we go!!

Alena Stocking, Auction Chair

Science Olympiad Still Needs Coaches

PLEASE VOLUNTEER to coach In Bloom, Mystery Architecture, Puff
Mobiles, or Straw Towers! No experience necessary, WESO will provide
training; and practices are just 1 hour per week. If you are willing
to coach, please email Vivian Lin at vhl@med.umich.edu or volunteer
via the student registration website https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CQLMWBY
.

Science Olympiad Registration Open

Only two weeks left to register for Science Olympiad practices! WESO
is a great science enrichment program for 2nd through 5th graders.
Practices will be held during the spring at King School, and the
tournament will occur at Skyline on June 5th. Please go to the website https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CQLMWBY
to register your child(ren) by January 31st.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Winter Coat And Boot Drive - January 19 - 29

Please donate your used coats, boots, snow pants and mittens. All
sizes are accepted including baby, toddler, kids, and adults. Please
only donate clean and gently used items with working zippers, snaps
and buttons and without tears. Boots and mittens need to be in
pairs. A large box will be near the main school entrance where
donations can be placed from January 19-29.

Donations will go to House by the Side of the Road.

Submitted by Rachel Sabb

Thurston Chess Tournament

King chess players are invited to play in the 7th Annual Thurston
School Chess Tournament on Saturday, January 23, 2010. Open to chess
players in grades K-8 and directed by Ray Garrison, who teaches at
King and other local schools. This nearby tournament is an excellent
opportunity for families to experience their first kids chess
tournament, as well as to practice for the statewide team tournaments
in February (where King has won several state championships in recent
years). There are four sections based on age and chess level, with
afternoon sessions for newer players and all-day sessions for more
experienced players. All players receive a participation certificate.
Fees range from $6-15, with all profits to the Thurston PTO. Space is
limited and pre-registration is required. Visit www.ThurstonChess.com
for more information and registration options. Contact King parent
Jeff Alson at jeffalson@sbcglobal.net or 663-6326 with any questions.

King International Night Update

Performances: Signups for King School International Night (Thurs Feb.
4) performances are underway! Please email Frances Wang at fkwang@aol.com
if you would like to participate. Reminders: all performances must
be under 3 minutes! Music must be prerecorded on CD. Colorful costumes
a plus! Practice practice practice over break!

Country Posters: Everyone is invited to make a country poster to teach
about a special country or culture that you like! This is a great
family project for the holidays. Maps are cool, but no flags please.
Contact Padma Anupindi p_anupindi@hotmail.com.

Thank you everyone for being a part! For more information: http://kinginternationalnight.blogspot.com

Frances Kai-Hwa Wang, King Intl Night Chair (fkwang@aol.com )

Bingo Night - Thursday, 1/14 - See You There!!!

BINGO NIGHT IS A FAMILY ACTIVITY.
PLEASE DO NOT DROP YOUR CHILDREN OFF.
ALL STUDENTS MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT!


Thursday, January 14, 6:30-8:00, multi-purpose room

K & 1st grade families play from 6:40-7:00 p.m.
2nd and 3rd grade families play from 7:10-7:30 p.m.
4th and 5th grade families play from 7:40-8:00 p.m.
Small prizes will be given to every child.

*There will be no food sold this year. Water will be available.*

Bring your King School water bottle to fill up!

If you would like to help with this PTO funded social event, please
click on the Doodle link:

http://www.doodle.com/knk6pp9mbeytcr3c

For questions, contact Melanie Snook at 730-8663 or
mssnook61@yahoo.com .

Science Olympiad Coaches Needed

PLEASE VOLUNTEER to coach a Science Olympiad event! We won't be able
to offer some of these great events for the kids if no one volunteers
to coach them. We still need coaches for Barge Building, Chopper
Challenge, Estimania, In Bloom, Mystery Architecture, Potions, Puff
Mobiles, Straw Towers, and Write It/Build It. No experience necessary.
If you are willing to coach, please email Vivian Lin at vhl@med.umich.edu
or volunteer via the student registration website https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CQLMWBY
. THANKS!!!

Science Olympiad Registration Open!

WESO is a great science enrichment program for 2nd through 5th
graders. Practices will be held from February through May at King
School, and the tournament will occur at Skyline on June 5th. Please
go to the website https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CQLMWBY to register
your child(ren) by January 31st.

Monday, January 11, 2010

Thursday, January 07, 2010

826michigan: Workshops

Students and families who are interested in some dynamite writing workshops should check out the offerings from 826michigan.org. This fantastic group has worked with our students at King in the past, and they were highly regarded.

826michigan's current classes sound pretty interesting and include:
Drop-in Writing Time!
Winter Woof-erland
Poetry off the Page: Turning Objects into Poetry

Choose Your Own Adventure

Writing Funny Short Stories
PJ Day!

AND MORE!!!

For a complete list of current 826michigan workshops, click below:
826michigan: Workshops

Budget Information Session Tonight @ Huron, 6:30 PM

Ann Arbor school officials will host information sessions in January,
where proposed budget cuts will be discussed and suggestions from the
public will be encouraged.

Meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. and will be at the following dates and
locations:
* Thursday, Jan. 7 at Huron High School
* Tuesday, Jan. 12 at Skyline High School
* Thursday, Jan. 14 at Scarlett Middle School
* Tuesday, Jan. 19 at Pioneer High School

How To Find Out If School Is Closed

As winter weather sets in, we would like to remind you of our school closing notification procedures and formats in the event that the schools are closed due to weather.

Internet:
Information about school closing will be posted on the home page of our website: http://www.a2schools.org. Any school closing notice will also appear on each school's homepage.

Telephone
The School Closing Hotline number is (734) 994-8684

Television Stations
WDIV Channel 4
WXYZ Channel 7

Radio Stations
WAAM 1600 AM
WTKA 1050 AM
WQKL 107.1 FM
WUOM 91.7 FM
WEMU 89.1 FM
WJR 760AM
WWJ 950 AM

Tuesday, January 05, 2010

King Newsletter - January 2010

Dear King Families, 

Happy New Year!  I hope you all had wonderful breaks and find yourself rested and ready for all what the next twelve months brings to us.

The first day back at school in 2010 went smoothly, especially because kids clearly understood our winter snow motto:  "Snow stays on the ground."  Of course, it is fine to play and build with the snow.  We're trying to avoid the throwing of snow, which can obviously be dangerous. 

As a reminder, we will have outdoor recess each day at MLK unless it is raining or the wind chill/actual temperature is below 0 °F.  Please send you child to school with all of the appropriate gear necessary to participate in outdoor recess each day including boots, snow pants, hats, and gloves.

As 2010 gets rolling, I am inviting you to two important events in January.  I hope every King family will be represented at each of these events.

The first is one of the budget information sessions being hosted by Dr. Roberts this month.  As the school district endeavors to cut close to $20 million from the budget between now and when the 2010-11 budget in set, it is important for families to understand and give input.  I invite you to attend a budget information session with me on Tuesday, January 19 Pioneer High School at 6:30 PM.  If you are not able to attend with me, please go to one of the other sessions either on Tuesday, January 12 at Skyline High School or Thursday, January 14 at Scarlett Middle School.  Both of these sessions also begin at 6:30 PM. 

The second event is the King Literacy Night on either January 26 or January 28 beginning at 6:30 promptly.  You probably have heard about this already or received an email from me it.  At this point, 130 families have signed up to attend Literacy Night, which is GREAT!  However, it represents less than half of all King families.  I am hoping that we will have at least 75% of all King families.  This means we need at least 210 families to sign up.  Please visit the King website (http://king.a2schools.org/) or call the King School office to sign up.  Thank you.

Kindergarten Round Up—February 16, 6:30 – 7:30PM
I am excited to announce that Kindergarten Round Up at King School will be on February 16 from 6:30 – 7:30 PM.  Children who turn five on or before December 1, 2010 are eligible to attend Kindergarten for the 2010-11 school year. 
 
At the round up presentation, we'll share important information about the kindergarten year including registration information and information about the kindergarten curriculum.  The presentation is intended for parents, however, you can register for free school aged child care, provided by the King Care staff.  If you anticipate needing the child care option, please note that when you call.
 
If your child falls into the eligible age range, please do two things now:
  1. Call the King School office at 994-1940 to give your child's information.  This will let us know to expect you for the Round Up presentation.  When you call, please also indicate if you'll need childcare on the night of round up.
  2. Put Kindergarten Round Up on your calendar.  It will be held in the multipurpose room at King.
Also, if you know of a family who will have a kindergarten aged child for next year (and the family lives in the King School area), please share this information with them.  If you have any questions, please call the King School office.  J

If you have questions, please call the school office at 994-1940. 

Sincerely,

Kevin
 
P.S. If you drop-off at school in the morning, please pull forward as far as possible in the drop-off zone.  And please remember, parents are not allowed to get out of cars in the drop-off zone.  If you need to get out of your car, please do so on Waldenwood Dr.

Monday, January 04, 2010

Happy New Year!

Dear King Families,


I hope you all had restful and wonderful breaks and are ready for a very happy new year!  

The first day back at school in 2010 went smoothly.  Kids transitioned back to school day routines  well, and they did a great job of playing with snow but NOT throwing snow.  Our snow motto at school is 
"Snow stays on the ground."

Also regarding our upcoming Literacy Night, 126 King families are signed up for Literacy Night so far.  I am encouraging each family to be a part of this event either on January 26 or 28.  If you need more information, please CLICK HERE. 


If you have questions, please let me know.  Thank you!

Kevin

P.S. If you drop off at school in the morning, please pull up as far as possible in the drop-off zone.  And remember, parents are not allowed to get out of cars in the drop-off zone.  More drop-off and pick-up information by CLICKING HERE.

Friday, January 01, 2010

Private / Religious School Recommendation Forms

From time to time, families will ask to have recommendation forms filled out for other schools that are religious or private schools. This most often happens at King when families move out of Ann Arbor or when they are looking at private middle school options for their child.

When recommendations for private or religious schools are needed, the following procedures should be followed:

1. Bring the private/relgious school's request for records form to the King School office. Please do not take any forms to your child's teacher. Parents should make sure they have a mailing address to where the forms should be sent.
2. Once the request has been received at the school office, we will copy the child's records and ask the classroom teacher to fill out the AAPS Elementary Recommendation Form. The reason the AAPS form is used and not the private or religious school form is because it produces a single procedure that addresses a child's academic performance and not their personal qualities (like leadership ability, sense of humor, emotional stability), which are often part of the recommendation forms.

King staff are required to use this procedure for all recommendation forms for other schools. Parents should not ask teachers to do otherwise.