Category Archives: Agenda Notes

Donation Ask (Outreach): Cereal.

2015-16 WSPTA Deadline Dates can be found HERE in one handy document!

Awards Reception Invitation is HERE.  Evite.

Treasurer Notes for 2015-2016 Budgeting:

As you begin your budgeting for next year, I wanted to alert you to some potential changes.  Once Council has our budget finalized, we will be able to provide more specific information.  Stay tuned!

1. ISF will now be funding Art Docent Training so elementaries will no longer need to budget $75.00 for the training (yeah)!
2. Council Dues which are currently $260 for Elementary, $230 for Middle, and $210 for High Schools will be raised approximately $50/year.  We haven’t raised Council dues in many years and we need to do so in order to keep up with rising costs.
3. The Parent Ed Fee which is currently $100/year, will be going up by an amount yet to be determined.  We will discuss this is more detail on Thursday.
4. Survey Monkey Fee will still be $11.00.
5. With the opening of the new Choice High School, Gibson Ek, in the fall, each PTA will be asked to make a donation to help them start up their PTA.  This is not required however is suggested.
6. Remember to consider the ACT Program and Echo Glen for donations when establishing your budgets.

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• Sunset Elementary school visit 2/4/2016
  • Coordinator: Becky Foster
  • Lots of busy docents getting ready for Art Walk right before break

• Maple Hills visit
  • Clay lesson integrated into history: kids made replica cities to ‘rebuild’ Europe after WWI
  • Lots of great art on the walls
  • Auction coming up and there are some fabulous projects for that as well

• Trainings Winter/Spring
  • February 26th, Acrylic with Beth Herrild was a great success.  We learned to use acrylics, mix tints, and create washes
  • March 25^th Printmaking with Leslie Nan Moon www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a49aea72ba13-printmaking3
  • April 22^nd Glass Fusing  http:  www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a49aea72ba13-glass
  • May 27^th Recycled: www.SignUpGenius.com/go/10C0A49AEA72BA13-recycled
  • Post all classes to your websites now please and invite your docents!

• Looking for host of 2016 Art Docent Conference
• This month is a good time to check in with teachers, if you haven’t already, to find out how they are feeling about their docents and projects.  You still have time to make changes at this point. 

PTA Monthly Checklist –  Full Year

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State of Mind Mini-Conferences:
Saturday, March 19, 12 noon to 4:00 p.m., Issaquah High School
Saturday, April 2, 12 noon to 4:00 p.m., Liberty High School
Saturday, April 23, 12 noon to 4:00 p.m., Skyline High School

Adult and student members of HYI are invited to attend one, two or all three State of Mind mini-conferences focused on topics related to youth mental health.  Each school mini-conference will have a different focus, including how to cope with stress, how to help friends who are struggling with depression, or how to detach from technology. Each mini-conference will also offer a core of basic classes in topics such as the impacts of drugs on the developing brain, healthy relationships, body image, and living with mental illness. Registrations for these conferences, as well as programs with a list of speakers and topics, will be available by February 15th.

Annual Issaquah Spring Clean Event
Saturday April 23, Time to be finalized

This annual event sees youth leaders and adults getting together to focus on clean-up of Rainier Trail (beside the Issaquah Community Center and the old skate park).  Over the years, ITC has seen a major difference in the amount of debris including drug paraphernalia i.e. syringes and beer bottles, cigarette butts, etc.  YODA leaders (Youth Opposing Drug Abuse – the youth coalition of the Alliance) will be taking a lead this year in organizing the day of work.  Come out – everything is provided for you including gloves, tongs to pick up garbage, and garbage bags along with (as always) lots of goodies.   Good day to get some good exercise, meet some great people and do some great work for the community!  Email Katie Moeller for more information at Katie.hirshberg.moeller@gmail.com.

Incredible Intensity of Just Being Human — Kick Off Event
Friday, April 29, 6:00 p.m., Issaquah Senior Center

The Issaquah Schools Foundation and ArtEast are partnering on a project that will bring an art exhibit focused on the themes of mental illness and mental health to Issaquah schools and community.  The exhibit itself will run from April 18 through June 30th and feature juried art located at three different art galleries in the greater Issaquah area. In addition, the exhibit will serve as a platform for panel discussions, tours, and school/community art, poetry and music activities focused on the theme of mental wellness.  Everyone is invited to attend this kick-off event, which will be followed by a reception located at the ArtEast gallery on Front Street in downtown Issaquah.  Put this on your calendars! More information to follow.     

2016 Influence the Choice Video Contest Event is underway!

Entering its’ 4^th year, the Alliance’s Video contest is in its final preparation for take off!  High School student videographers from across the Issaquah School District boundaries (including public and private schools) are eligible to enter a 2-minute PSA for cash prizes that will be judged by an esteemed panel of judges and presented at an Awards Ceremony.  This year’s contest categories will be changing but the intent is the same: showcasing the importance of young people’s voices through this art medium to encourage the prevention of substance abuse and promote good mental health.  The timeline for the contest schedule is being finalized and will be shared widely.  In the meantime, if you have questions, please contact Matt Compston, ITC Video Contest Coordinator at  compston75@gmail.com

• Dining for Kids – 1^st Wednesday of every month, next night is on Wed, March 2nd at Big Fish in the Issaquah Highlands.

• Save your seat:  Annual Nourish Every Mind Luncheon and Breakfast  (Table Sign-up sheet and NEM FAQ attached for your to have available at your meeting)
  • Luncheon on Thursday, April 28
    • Reception will again feature program displays, Bundt cakes and the Wall of Wine & Whiskey
  • Breakfast on Wednesday, May 4 – ideal for those who work. wonderful networking opportune. 
  • Online Auction:  live April 17-26^th – 2 weeks,
    • Procuring items now for Online Auction and Wines & Whiskeys
  • For those that have not attended before:  The events showcase students and staff who have benefitted from Foundation investments, inspirational videos, entertainment and information on the impact private donations have on our public schools.
  • The generous donations to be directed to programs that elevate and enrich education for every student at every school. 
  • A few of the programs supported:  VOICE Mentor Program, Healthy Youth Initiative, Financial Literacy Classes, Academic Enrichment Grants, Free After-School Homework Labs, and Computer Science and Web Design Classes. 

• Schools Foundation $1,000 Impact Scholarship – now accepting applications.
  • Impact Scholarships are available to juniors and seniors in the Issaquah School District to help continue their educational journeys.
  • This scholarship will be awarded to students who submit essays that describe how Foundation-funded programs have enriched their education.
  • Scholarship will be awarded in two categories. The winner of each category will receive a $1,000 scholarship for use at a post-secondary institute of learning.
  • Written category entries will be judged on answers to required essay questions.
  • Presentation category entries will be judged on a 5-minute oral presentation of the written essays and will have the opportunity to tell their story at the annual Luncheon on Thursday, April 28th or Breakfast on Wednesday, May 4th.
  • Deadline Monday, February 29^th
  • More information can be found of the Schools Foundation Website, under the Students tab.

• ESL Classes at Issaquah Valley Elementary
  • ESL:  English as a Second Language
  • ESL classes will be held at Issaquah Valley Elementary (IVE)
    • February 8 -June 8 on Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesday, 6:00pm-8:30 pm

DATES Recap

3/2 Dining For Kids – Big Fish in Issaquah Highlands

4/17-26  Nourish Every Mind Online Auction

4/28 Nourish Every Mind Luncheon

5/4 Nourish Every Mind Breakfast

This Month’s Program Highlight: Healthy Youth Initiative

• Its mission is to build the community’s capacity to empower youth and families, to reduce negative social and emotional (risky) behaviors, and to network the community in support of healthy youth and strong families.  
• Issues confronting our youth today that Healthy Youth tackles:

Substance abuse prevention

Homelessness

Bullying prevention

Strengthening emotional resiliency

Reducing Adverse Childhood Experiences

It also ensures basic student needs are met, including breakfast, school supplies, dental care, vision care and warm clothing.

• This last mid-winter break – the partnership between the Basic Student Needs Committee and the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank provided boxes of food to 338 students at 6 schools over mid-winter break

Provides opportunities to learn – open to all students and families, the State of Mind Mini-Conference

• Guest welcome to attend 1,2 or all 3 State of Mind mini-conferences focused on topics related to youth mental health. 
• Each school’s mini-conference will have a different focus, including how to cope with stress, how to help friends who are struggling with depression, or how to detach from technology.
• Each mini-conference will also offer a core of basic classes in topics such as the impacts of drugs on the developing brain, healthy relationships, body image, and living with mental illness.
• If you would like more information on the event or to register – go to the Healthy Youth Initiative Website
  • Sat, March 19, 12n- 4pm, Issaquah High School
  • Sat, April 2, 12n- 4pm,, Liberty High School
  • Sat, April 23, 12n- 4pm,, Skyline High School

In preparing for our Issaquah PTSA Council meeting this week, please think about our Parent Ed proposal from last month and come prepared with how much your PTA unit is willing/able to budget for a more proactive, high profile, and/or technological delivery of district-wide Parent Ed events going forward.  During the meeting we will request your preferred budget increase for Council Parent Ed to either:

1)      We prefer to keep most Parent Ed local to our school only, increase only up to about $250-350/school for Council funded Parent Ed,

or

2)      We believe in pooling and distributing district efforts, collect up to $XXXX/school  (or $X/FTE) and give us the best national speakers & webinars available. (XXXX=how much your school PTSA is willing to spend on district Parent Ed efforts).

Heidi pass around a sheet toward the beginning of the meeting reflecting the 2 choices above, to collect a surveyed response of budget priority by end of meeting.   We will use the results of that to help determine the budgeted Council Fees for 2016-17.

UPCOMING PARENT ED EVENTS:

1)    Anxiety – Yours, Mine and Ours, by Laura Kastner PhD  FLYER

Tues, Mar 8^th, 2016

7:00-8:30pm

Issaquah High School, Theater

(for parents of middle/high school teens)

This lecture will discuss research on teen stress by author of Wise Minded Parenting(among other publications), Laura Kastner PhD.  Some stress is good! Challenges energize, focus and motivate us.  Stress management and resilience are key personal strengths that can determine success or failure.  Learn how to help, rather than hinder, your teens’ stress management.

2)    What do our kids need to know about money and finances?  by Ron Lieber FLYER

Tues, Mar 15^th, 2016

7:00-8:30pm

Mercer Island High School

(for parents of kids K-12, $10 at the door)

Ron Lieber, author of NY Times bestseller “The Opposite of Spoiled –  Raising Kids Who are Grounded, Generous, and Smart About Money”, gives parents practical advice on how to have honest conversations with children of all ages about money.  Learn how talking about money can teach life lessons and import strong values by teaching modesty, patience, generosity and perspective.

3)    State of Mind Mini-Conferences: Finding a Balance in Your Life sponsored by Healthy Youth Initiative of ISF  FLYER

(for parents & teenagers)

Sat, Mar 19, 12-4pm, Issaquah High School

Focus: Mental Health Crash Course, Identification, Levels, Recognition; Body Image, Eating Disorders

Sat, Apr 2, 12-4pm, Liberty High School

Focus: Healthy Relationships, Helping Loved Ones with Mental Illnesses

Sat, Apr 23, 12-4pm, Skyline High School

Focus: Reliance on Technology; Managing Expectations from Parents, Self, Peers; Finding Your Own Definition of Success

Professional, technical, and practical information will be exchanged in all workshops, but each school mini-conference will have a different focus; common topics at all schools are Substance Abuse, Self Confidence, and Self-Care / Stress Management.   Attendees will attend 3 one-hour workshops of their choosing.  Attendance is FREE, but advance registration is requested at  http://www.healthyyouthinitiative.org/state-of-mind-2016.html.

4)    The Gift of Anxiety: Turn your child’s worry into growth, speaker Chris McCurry, sponsored by ParentMap

Tues, Mar 29th 2016
7:00-9:00pm
Village Theater, Issaquah (303 Front St N, Issaquah 98027)
(for adults, parents of K-12)

Author and psychologist, Chris McCurry, Ph.D., dives into the early origins of child anxiety and provides insight and strategies for clearer communication, mutual respect and problem solving techniques.

Presale tickets $25, Tickets at the door $30.

https://www.parentmap.com/article/mccurry

Donation Ask (Outreach): School supplies for Generation Joy. Flyer.

Generation Joy is a local non-profit organization (genjoy.org) that works with kids (primarily in the Issaquah School District) to collect school supplies and other needed items for under-served kids in rural Kwa-Zulu Natal in South Africa.  For more information contact Linda Guard directly at ldguard@comcast.net or 425-208-6758.

2015-16 WSPTA Deadline Dates can be found HERE in one handy document!

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• • ISF proposal ACCEPTED!
    • District level trainings and functions (funding) to fall under ISF Fine Arts Fund as of September 2016
    • ISF looking for elementary level way to support arts education
    • Provide consistency, and administrative support
    • Grant writing and other financial aspects would no longer be necessary part of Art Liaison job
    • Deeper level partnership with PTSA council & elementary PTA’s
    • Web site presence on ISF site as well
    • Art Docent Coordinator Contractor – paid position (average 8hrs. weekly)
  • Trainings Winter/Spring
    • January 22nd, Sumi painting class was success.
    • February 26th, Acrylic painting  http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a49aea72ba13-painting
    • March 25th, Printmaking http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a49aea72ba13-printmaking3
    • April 22^nd Glass Fusing
    • May 27^th Recycled Art
    • Post March class now please.  I want to give more people a chance to sign up instead of having things full for months and people forgetting that they signed up, so I am posting them more slowly.
  • Clark Elementary school visit 2/3/2016
    • Coordinator: Katja Magnus
    • Lots of art to be found on the walls (photos to be found on Facebook)
    • Every class has a docent!!!
  • Sunset Elementary school visit 2/4/2016
    • Coordinator: Becky Foster
    • Looking forward to seeing how their program is going
  • Looking for host of 2016 Art Docent Conference
  • Great time to clean out art material cabinets and do inventory. 

PTA Monthly Checklist –  Full Year

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State of Mind Mini-Conferences:
Saturday, March 19, 12 noon to 4:00 p.m., Issaquah High School
Saturday, April 2, 12 noon to 4:00 p.m., Liberty High School
Saturday, April 23, 12 noon to 4:00 p.m., Skyline High School

Adult and student members of HYI are invited to attend one, two or all three State of Mind mini-conferences focused on topics related to youth mental health.  Each school mini-conference will have a different focus, including how to cope with stress, how to help friends who are struggling with depression, or how to detach from technology. Each mini-conference will also offer a core of basic classes in topics such as the impacts of drugs on the developing brain, healthy relationships, body image, and living with mental illness. Registrations for these conferences, as well as programs with a list of speakers and topics, will be available by February 15th.

Annual Issaquah Spring Clean Event
Saturday April 23, Time to be finalized

This annual event sees youth leaders and adults getting together to focus on clean-up of Rainier Trail (beside the Issaquah Community Center and the old skate park).  Over the years, ITC has seen a major difference in the amount of debris including drug paraphernalia i.e. syringes and beer bottles, cigarette butts, etc.  YODA leaders (Youth Opposing Drug Abuse – the youth coalition of the Alliance) will be taking a lead this year in organizing the day of work.  Come out – everything is provided for you including gloves, tongs to pick up garbage, and garbage bags along with (as always) lots of goodies.   Good day to get some good exercise, meet some great people and do some great work for the community!  Email Katie Moeller for more information at Katie.hirshberg.moeller@gmail.com.

Incredible Intensity of Just Being Human — Kick Off Event
Friday, April 29, 6:00 p.m., Issaquah Senior Center

The Issaquah Schools Foundation and ArtEast are partnering on a project that will bring an art exhibit focused on the themes of mental illness and mental health to Issaquah schools and community.  The exhibit itself will run from April 18 through June 30th and feature juried art located at three different art galleries in the greater Issaquah area. In addition, the exhibit will serve as a platform for panel discussions, tours, and school/community art, poetry and music activities focused on the theme of mental wellness.  Everyone is invited to attend this kick-off event, which will be followed by a reception located at the ArtEast gallery on Front Street in downtown Issaquah.  Put this on your calendars! More information to follow.     

2016 Influence the Choice Video Contest Event is underway!

Entering its’ 4^th year, the Alliance’s Video contest is in its final preparation for take off!  High School student videographers from across the Issaquah School District boundaries (including public and private schools) are eligible to enter a 2-minute PSA for cash prizes that will be judged by an esteemed panel of judges and presented at an Awards Ceremony.  This year’s contest categories will be changing but the intent is the same: showcasing the importance of young people’s voices through this art medium to encourage the prevention of substance abuse and promote good mental health.  The timeline for the contest schedule is being finalized and will be shared widely.  In the meantime, if you have questions, please contact Matt Compston, ITC Video Contest Coordinator at  compston75@gmail.com

VOICE Mentor Program

January is National Mentoring Month

Resolve to make a difference this New Year

Volunteer just one hour a week supporting a student!

ONE Mentor           ONE Student          ONE Hour

The VOICE Mentor Program is looking for community volunteers to work one on one with Issaquah students.  These students are referred by teachers and counselors as needing extra support whether it is academic, social or emotional. The Volunteers work in the school setting in partnership with the school staff.

Please help us recruit your neighbors, friends, relatives or colleagues to become a mentor.

For further information contact:  Susan Gierke or Teresa Bretl VOICE Mentor Directors:

E-mail:  VOICE@isfdn.org      

Phone: 425-837-6801

 Susan Gierke: Gierkes@issaquah.wednet.edu

Teresa Bretl: Bretlt@issaquah.wednet.edu

VOICE is funded by the Issaquah Schools Foundation
In Cooperation with the Issaquah School District

ISSAQUAH SCHOOL FOUNDATION UPDATES

Dining for Kids on the First Wednesday of Every Month!
On the first Wednesday of every month, restaurants around the Issaquah Community will partner with the Foundation to donate a portion of their proceeds to benefit our students. Join us during lunch or dinner for Dining for Kids on February 3rd at Black Duck and Flat Iron Grill.

Annual Nourish Every Mind Luncheon and Breakfast

Save the date for two of the most inspiring events of the season—the Issaquah Schools Foundation’s Nourish Every Mind Luncheon on Thursday, April 28 and Breakfast on May 4. Both events showcase students and staff who have benefitted from Foundation investments, inspirational videos, entertainment and information on the impact private donations have on our public schools. Generous donations from Golden Apple sponsors Swedish Hospital, Microsoft, Overlake and other corporate leaders enable all guest donations to be directed to programs that elevate and enrich education for every student at every school.  Included in the list of programs supported by Nourish Every Mind donations are the VOICE Mentor Program, Healthy Youth Initiative, Financial Literacy Classes, Academic Enrichment Grants, Free After-School Homework Labs, and Computer Science and Web Design Classes.  Seating at the Luncheon and Breakfast are limited. Visit www.isfdn.org or call 425-391-8557 today to learn more.

State of Mind Mini-Conferences offered by the Issaquah Schools Foundation’s Healthy Youth Initiative

Parents and students are invited to attend one, two or all three State of Mind mini-conferences focused on topics related to youth mental health.  Each school mini-conference will have a different focus, including how to cope with stress, how to help friends who are struggling with depression, or how to detach from technology. Each mini-conference will also offer a core of basic classes in topics such as the impacts of drugs on the developing brain, healthy relationships, body image, and living with mental illness. Registrations for these conferences, as well as programs with a list of speakers and topics, will be available by February 15th. Visit www.healthyyouthinitiative.org for more information.

Saturday, March 19, 12 noon to 4:00 p.m., Issaquah High School

Saturday, April 2, 12 noon to 4:00 p.m., Liberty High School

Saturday, April 23, 12 noon to 4:00 p.m., Skyline High School

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Success:  Stay Organized, Manage Time and Study Skills, by Jenni Butz of Pacific Learning Academy

Tuesday, Feb 23rd, 2016
7:00-8:30pm
PCMS
(for parents of middle/high school teens)

Help your teen succeed by learning practical organizational, time management and study skills that can be personalized to the individual learning style. Put basic office supplies to use and reduce mind clutter.

Anxiety – Yours, Mine and Ours, by Laura Kastner PhD

Tues, Mar 8^th, 2016
7:00-8:30pm
Issaquah High School, Theater
(for parents of middle/high school teens)

This lecture will discuss research on teen stress by author of Wise Minded Parenting (among other publications), Laura Kastner PhD.  Some stress is good! Challenges energize, focus and motivate us.  Stress management and resilience are key personal strengths that can determine success or failure.  Learn how to help, rather than hinder, your teens’ stress management.

Region 2 Mid-Year Conference. February 23, 2016, 5:30-8:30PM, Interlake High School in Bellevue.

Donation Ask (Outreach): Small (24 oz or less) bottles of cooking oil, and either canned evaporated milk or canned condensed milk to benefit the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank.

FOCUS DAY Registration

AIM Insurance Certificates: If you have not turned these in to Laila, do so immediately!

2015-16 WSPTA Deadline Dates can be found HERE in one handy document!

WASHINGTON STATE PTA FOCUS DAY IN OLYMPIA IS ALMOST HERE– WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3RD

Please join Washington State PTA members from across the state on Wednesday, February 3rd in Olympia for our biggest advocacy event of the year – Focus Day 2016.

Your presence will help us put education front and center with our lawmakers during the upcoming legislative session. Children are welcome to attend.

The event is free, but please register to attend Focus Day 2016 here.

WHY DOES IT MATTER?

Did you know, despite the fact that the WA State Constitution says our State Budget must fully fund education, only 62.3% of our Issaquah School District funding for general operating costs comes from WA State? A full 34.6% is generated through local fees and the Maintenance and Operation (M & O) Levy.

There’s been progress; in the last 2 years, the legislature added funding of all-day Kindergarten and half of the needed funding for K-3 class size reductions, but those funds didn’t include funds for building the new classrooms to put those smaller classes in. So where will we put them without more funding and changes to the State’s funding structure and allocation for capital improvements and additions?

We have momentum, and we need to say thank you to our legislators for making this happen. But we’re not done, and we need to keep the momentum going. Help us tell our legislators to fully fund education NOW!

• ISF Katrina Brow Biggest need grant – submitting for 2016/2017 (last ask)
• ISF proposal
  • Invitation by Robin Callahan
  • District level trainings and functions (funding) to fall under ISF Fine Arts Fund
  • ISF looking for elementary level way to support arts education
    • Currently support high school and middle schools only (district wide)
  • Provide consistency and administrative support
  • Grant writing and other financial aspects would no longer be necessary part of Art Liaison job
  • Deeper level partnership with PTSA council
• Trainings Winter/Spring
  • January 22nd, Sumi painting  http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a49aea72ba13-sumi
    
  • February 26th, Acrylic painting  http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a49aea72ba13-painting
  • I don’t have a class for May yet, I have some ideas but we shall see. 
  • I only posted the January and February ones for the docents so far.  I want to give more people a chance to sign up instead of having things full for months and people forgetting that they signed up. 
• Current ISF Grant
  • Big kudos to Laila for working through the current grant mishap!
  • For the remainder of the year we will pay out to Art East and then get reimbursed by ISF
  • Carolyn, new programs manager at ISF is contact

PTA Monthly Checklist –  Full Year

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! 

Healthy Youth Initiative and Influence the Choice- Drug Prevention Alliance for Youth

(Initiatives of the Issaquah Schools Foundation)

Paper Tigers Movie and ACEs training
Monday, January 25, 7:30 to 11:00 a.m., Liberty High School

Adult HYI members and friends have been invited to join Issaquah School District staff for a showing of “Paper Tigers,” a movie highlighting the impacts of Adverse Childhood Experiences.  The movie was filmed at Lincoln Alternative High School in Walla Walla, Washington and is being shown nationwide to teachers and educators.  Following the movie, HYI members will gather for a short guided discussion.  To attend this movie, please email your rsvp to Barb de Michele (barb@isfdn) no later than Thursday, January 21.  Attendance is limited to 12, so get your rsvp back to her as soon as possible!

HYI Forum:  ACEs presentation and discussion
Monday, February 1, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., Grand Ridge Elementary School

Adult and student HYI members and friends are invited to a presentation by Pam Ridenour, Issaquah School District Director of Counseling, on the topic of Adverse Childhood Experiences research and the impacts of ACEs on physical and mental health.  The presentation will include small-group discussions about the material.  This is the second Healthy Youth Initiative Forum of the year, with the purpose of providing education and information about major new developments in the field of youth behaviorial health.  A registration link will be sent to members soon.

State of Mind Mini-Conferences:
Saturday, March 19, 12 noon to 4:00 p.m., Issaquah High School
Saturday, April 2, 12 noon to 4:00 p.m., Liberty High School
Saturday, April 23, 12 noon to 4:00 p.m., Skyline High School

Adult and student members of HYI are invited to attend one, two or all three State of Mind mini-conferences focused on topics related to youth mental health.  Each school mini-conference will have a different focus, including how to cope with stress, how to help friends who are struggling with depression, or how to detach from technology. Each mini-conference will also offer a core of basic classes in topics such as the impacts of drugs on the developing brain, healthy relationships, body image, and living with mental illness. Registrations for these conferences, as well as programs with a list of speakers and topics, will be available by February 15th.

Annual Issaquah Spring Clean Event
Saturday April 23, Time to be finalized

This annual event sees youth leaders and adults getting together to focus on clean-up of Rainier Trail (beside the Issaquah Community Center and the old skate park).  Over the years, ITC has seen a major difference in the amount of debris including drug paraphernalia i.e. syringes and beer bottles, cigarette butts, etc.  YODA leaders (Youth Opposing Drug Abuse – the youth coalition of the Alliance) will be taking a lead this year in organizing the day of work.  Come out – everything is provided for you including gloves, tongs to pick up garbage, and garbage bags along with (as always) lots of goodies.   Good day to get some good exercise, meet some great people and do some great work for the community!  Email Katie Moeller for more information at Katie.hirshberg.moeller@gmail.com.

Incredible Intensity of Just Being Human — Kick Off Event
Friday, April 29, 6:00 p.m., Issaquah Senior Center

The Issaquah Schools Foundation and ArtEast are partnering on a project that will bring an art exhibit focused on the themes of mental illness and mental health to Issaquah schools and community.  The exhibit itself will run from April 18 through June 30th and feature juried art located at three different art galleries in the greater Issaquah area. In addition, the exhibit will serve as a platform for panel discussions, tours, and school/community art, poetry and music activities focused on the theme of mental wellness.  Everyone is invited to attend this kick-off event, which will be followed by a reception located at the ArtEast gallery on Front Street in downtown Issaquah.  Put this on your calendars! More information to follow.     

2016 Influence the Choice Video Contest Event is underway!

Entering its’ 4^th year, the Alliance’s Video contest is in its final preparation for take off!  High School student videographers from across the Issaquah School District boundaries (including public and private schools) are eligible to enter a 2-minute PSA for cash prizes that will be judged by an esteemed panel of judges and presented at an Awards Ceremony.  This year’s contest categories will be changing but the intent is the same: showcasing the importance of young people’s voices through this art medium to encourage the prevention of substance abuse and promote good mental health.  The timeline for the contest schedule is being finalized and will be shared widely.  In the meantime, if you have questions, please contact Matt Compston, ITC Video Contest Coordinator at  compston75@gmail.com

Cultural Bridges  magazine published every two months.

Child Safety Workshop, by Kim Estes of Savvy Parent Safe Kids

Thurs, Jan 14^th, 2016
7:00-8:30pm
Grand Ridge Elementary, Library
(for parents of grades K-5)

This workshop is about child safety topics: sleepovers & playdates, teaching body safety, smartphone safety, what apps should kids avoid, online safety, Super 10 rules, red flags and warning signs.  We all want to keep our kids safe… FLYER

Safe Dating – Talking to Your Teen, by Robin Wright of Wright Conversations

Tues., Jan 19^th, 2016
7:00-8:30pm
Skyline HS, Library
(for parents of grades 6-12)

Safe Dating – Talking to Your Teen helps parents learn more about teen dating abuse and gives parents the tools they need to discuss it with their teens.  Talking to your teen early is the most important step a parent can take to ensure that when they start dating, they clearly understand what a healthy relationship involves. FLYER

Success:  Stay Organized, Manage Time and Study Skills, by Jenni Butz of Pacific Learning Academy

Tues, Feb 23rd, 2016
7:00-8:30pm
PCMS
(for parents of middle/high school teens)

Help your teen succeed by learning practical organizational, time management and study skills that can be personalized to the individual learning style. Put basic office supplies to use and reduce mind clutter.

Anxiety – Yours, Mine and Ours, by Laura Kastner PhD

Tues, Mar 8^th, 2016
7:00-8:30pm
Issaquah High School, Theater
(for parents of middle/high school teens)

This lecture will discuss research on teen stress by author of Wise Minded Parenting (among other publications), Laura Kastner PhD.  Some stress is good! Challenges energize, focus and motivate us.  Stress management and resilience are key personal strengths that can determine success or failure.  Learn how to help, rather than hinder, your teens’ stress management.

Region 2 Mid-Year Conference. February 23, 2016, 5:30-8:30PM, Interlake High School in Bellevue.

Donation Ask (Outreach): Lunch for the Break donations: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4eafab22a4fc1-lunch2

AIM Insurance (Outreach): Be sure to bring these to Laila:  Cascade Ridge, Challenger, Discovery, Grand Ridge, Maple Hills, Newcastle, Sunset, Issaquah Middle, Maywood, PCMS, PLMS, and Liberty.

2015-16 WSPTA Deadline Dates can be found HERE in one handy document!

• ISF will accept grant request one more year
  • Started writing grant for ISF
    • Better fit because grant monies come to our account and we pay out, one less step in process
  • Retracted grant request to IAC
    • Grant is reimbursement type – meaning we had to foot the bill first then they would reimburse us for expenses
• Set up Monthly trainings for Winter/Spring
  • January 22^nd Sumi E painting
  • February 26^th Acrylic painting
  • March 25^th Mono printing
  • April 22^nd Glass fusing
  • May 27^th TBD
• Trainings
  • November glazing training was full and we had a good turn out
• Started a conversation with ISF about long term funding for district trainings
• Long Term Funding Plan – topic for next month?
  • Devise a plan
  • Grants?
  • More from schools?
  • Charge for certain events?
  • Sell products?
  • Others?

PTA Monthly Checklist –  Full Year

Two articles to utilize for your dispersement of National PTA News:
http://ptaourchildren.org/2015/11/13/why-your-kid-needs-to-play/
http://www.pta.org/newsevents/newsdetail.cfm?ItemNumber=4680

1. Paid Contract Opportunity – ITC (Influence the Choice Drug Prevention Alliance for Youth) is currently seeking someone to fill a short-term contract to assist with the planning and implementation of their 4^th Annual ITC Video Contest. 

Request: The potential contract would be between 5-10 hours per week from now until April 2016 (and could be beyond depending on funding).  Duties would include promoting the contest, working with student and teachers submitting videos, planning and overseeing a judging of the video submissions, and coordinating with the staff and students planning an Awards Ceremony.   There would be some evening meetings for the planning team involved however most work should be done through emails, phone calls, etc.  Contact Project Coordinator Pat Castillo at pat@isdfn.org  if you are interested in applying for the contract.

1. “The Incredible Intensity of Just Being Human”– a partnership with artEast, BEST (Building Emotional Strength Together) with funding through the Issaquah Schools Foundation, and other community partners will be bringing this exhibition to the Eastside from April 18^th to July 11, 2106.  The art and social exchange will examine through art the stigma and silence surrounding mental illness.  A planning team is beginning to work on the planning and implementation of the exhibit.

Request:  A representative from the PTA Council, Board or any PTA member  interested in helping in the planning and implementation of this event can contact Barb de Michele at barb@isfdn.org 

1. Teen Café Exploratory Group – under BEST, a group of interested leaders are beginning to explore the possibility of opening a Teen Café in Issaquah.

Request:  A representative from the PTA Council, Board or any interested PTA member interested in participating in this exploratory group or to receive the State of Need document can contact Barb de Michele at barb@isfdn.org.  The next meeting date is Thursday January 14^th, 2015 – location and time to be provided.

Below are the events to publicize for January!  Some are early in the month, so start NOW before the break.  Please put in every ENews now until the event(s), and post on your PTSA and school calendars, social media, and print the flyers for your school bulletin boards.

1)    Understanding the Grade, by author Thomas Guskey

Wed., Jan 6^th, 2016

6:30-8:00pm

Skyline HS, Theater

(for parents of grades K-12)

Parents of Issaquah School District students are invited to an evening presentation with author and internationally known expert on grading practices, Dr. Thomas Guskey, who will share research, describe new directions in grading policies, and offer suggestions for enhancing communication between parents and teachers for both elementary and secondary levels.

This title and description changed; please use new flyer attached.

2)    Child Safety Workshop, by Kim Estes of Savvy Parent Safe Kids

Thurs, Jan 14^th, 2016

7:00-8:30pm

Grand Ridge Elementary, Library

(for parents of grades K-5)

This workshop is about child safety topics: sleepovers & playdates, teaching body safety, smartphone safety, what apps should kids avoid, online safety, Super 10 rules, red flags and warning signs.  We all want to keep our kids safe…            See flyer attached.

3)    Safe Dating – Talking to Your Teen, by Robin Wright of Wright Conversations

Tues., Jan 19^th, 2016

7:00-8:30pm

Skyline HS, Library

(for parents of grades 6-12)

Safe Dating – Talking to Your Teen helps parents learn more about teen dating abuse and gives parents the tools they need to discuss it with their teens.  Talking to your teen early is the most important step a parent can take to ensure that when they start dating, they clearly understand what a healthy relationship involves.

See flyer attached.

That’s it for January.  Let Heidi know of any additional events you are planning so we can spread the word.

Donation Ask (Outreach): please bring diapers and infant formula for the Issaquah Food Bank to the meeting.

?Voting Delegate Form due. Form Link.

McCleary Letters can be found HERE

2015-16 WSPTA Deadline Dates can be found HERE in one handy document!

The “Paramount Duty Resolution, “ whose purpose is to raise awareness of the need for Washington State to fund basic education, and to call upon our elected officials to swiftly fulfill the paramount duty.

 1. Have your PTA/PTSA Adopt the Resolution

Present the resolution at a General Membership meeting, discuss the importance of the resolution and fully funding education, and vote to adopt it.

 2. Have PTA Leadership sign the Resolution.

 3. Share and Send

Share with your PTA members that the PTA adopted the resolution by including an article in your PTA newsletter.

Send a letter with a copy of the resolution to State Elected officials:

Governor Inslee

McCleary Workgroup members (appointed by Gov. Inslee)

Senate & House Education Committee members

Your school’s legislators (2 representative and one Senator)

On the Council Website, find the letters and resolution for each school here. Each .zip has a copy of the resolution along with letters to Gov. Inslee and each of the eight members of the Governor’s McCleary Workgroup.

 Find your PTA’s legislators: http://app.leg.wa.gov/districtfinder.

• Art Docent Coordinator Meeting
  • 4 schools represented
  • Web site – group would like a central location for:
    • information
    • lessons
    • registration
    • payments
    • blog
    • photos
    • email capturing
    • replace Facebook & Signup Genius
  • Curriculum
    • Standardized within schools
    • More direction for docents
    • Integrated with state & federal standards
• Art Docent Conference
  • 100+ attended
  • Great evaluation (attached)
  • Lots of different classes
  • Teachers were great
  • Need more volunteers to run event next year
    • Planning team – procure teachers, Food, student volunteer coor.
    • Event team 3 – 4 people to set up, register, run opening event, direct traffic, check in with teachers, take photos, get evaluations and reimbursement forms
• Trainings
  • October training
  • 19 attended
  • 3 missed – names and schools attached for $10 fee
  • November glazing class is full
  • Winter/Spring classes coming soon
• Issaquah Arts Commission Grant
  • Applied for IAC grant for program next year $4600
  • Reimbursement grant
    • How do we make that work with our current budget?
  • Budget attached
• Long Term Funding Plan – topic for next month?
  • Devise a plan
  • Grants?
  • More from schools?
  • Charge for certain events?
  • Sell products?
  • Others?

PTA Monthly Checklist – July-October 2015   &  Full Year

AIM Insurance must be renewed and paid by November 10th.

Members and invited guests of the Issaquah Schools Foundation’s Healthy Youth Initiative have a wonderful opportunity to help shape local outcomes for the voter-approved Best Starts for Kids levy and the King County Youth Action Plan.

Issaquah Schools Foundation Healthy Youth Initiative Community Forum
Monday, November 16, 2015
6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Gibson Hall, 105 Newport Way SW, Issaquah

On-street parking is available on Newport Way and Sunset Way.

This event is free but seating is limited and registration is required:  https://www.signupforms.com/registrations/6196

Sheila Capestany, King County Strategic Advisor for Children and Youth, will be our featured speaker. Following Ms. Capestany’s presentation, attendees will participate in guided discussions about how the greater Issaquah community can best deploy King County levy funding to achieve mutual goals for com-munity children and youth.

Please join us for this very important and timely discussion.

Nourish Every Mind date changes:
*Luncheon: Thursday, April 28, 2016
*Breakfast: Wednesday, May 4, 2016

How You Can Help

1. Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank TURKEY TROT  NOV 26, 2015  8:00 AM – 12:00 Come join us for a great community 5K fun run/walk. This is a great way to kick off your Thanksgiving holiday, plus make a little more room for that second slice of pie! All proceeds benefit the Issaquah food and Clothing Bank.   https://www.issaquahfoodbank.org/calendar/turkey-trot/

1. Friends of Youth  Rise and Thrive Breakfast – Please join us and support our community as we raise funds to increase mental health and substance abuse counseling in the Issaquah School District. Wednesday, December 2, 2015  7:30am-8:30am at Pickering Barn, Issaquah. Our programs include parenting education and support, mental health and substance abuse counseling at the high schools, prevention services for middle school students at risk of academic failure, and counseling services available at school. To learn more, visit www.friendsofyouth.org.

1. Lunch For The Break is a community effort to provide food to children who rely on the free & reduced lunch program in the Issaquah School District. As we slowly expand, we are currently serving seven ISD schools for school breaks: Clark, Issaquah Valley, Sunset, Maple Hills, Apollo and Briarwood Elementary Schools and Issaquah Middle School. All the donated food boxes will have the same contents, so please download and follow the shopping list at our website if you are donating.  Donation Drop-Off will be Dec 16, 2pm-7pm at 3 locations.   Details at www.LunchForTheBreak.com  or  https://www.issaquahfoodbank.org/calendar/lunch-for-the-break-donor-drop-off/

1. Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank Holiday Gift Barn  The goal of this program is to help all families with holiday cheer through the giving and sharing of gifts for children birth-18 years old.  https://www.issaquahfoodbank.org/calendar/holiday-gift-barnk-donors/

1. YWCA Family Village Issaquah is looking for adult or high school volunteers to help with tutoring and programs at their after-school program which started Sept 1.  Hours would be 2:30-5pm (perhaps 6pm).  For more information and signing up, please contact Sondi Lind,425.270.6800

1. YWCA Family Village Issaquah is looking for donations of non-perishable snacks for their after-school program.    Items can include granola bars, packaged fruits or any other healthy packaged snacks.  Items can be brought to PTSA Council meetings, or directly to YWCA Village at 930 NE High St., Suite 101, Issaquah, 98029.

Current Programs

1. ENGLISH FOR WORK – AN ESL PROGRAM.  Learn English. Prepare for Work. Free classes start September 14, 2015. Call to register. Locations: Kirkland, Shoreline, Bellevue and Redmond  Contact Marci Williams at 425-250-3007 or marciw@hope-link.org.  Flyer posted to Council Outreach website.
2. College Transition Tips for Students with Disabilities   Issaquah Library  Saturday, November 14, 2015  1:00 PM – 3:00 PM    Learn about the important differences between the accommodation process in high school and college. Do you know how your rights and responsibilities change as a college student? Find out the best way to prepare for a successful transition between these two very different environments. Choose a school and program that meets your needs. Help your support network (including parents) understand how they can best help you. Get ready to put yourself in the driver’s seat of your education.   Location: Meeting Room
3. Join our Office of Sustainability to see “The Starfish Throwers” — what The Huffington Post calls “the most heartwarming film of 2014” — at 6 p.m. Nov. 12, 2015, at Cinebarre, 1490 11th Ave. N.W.    Is hunger too big of a problem for one person to be able to make a difference?   The showing is free and a panel discussion follows the film.  http://www.ci.issaquah.wa.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1845
4. Child Care resources:  http://childcare.org/family-services/
5. Homeless Youth Services:  Friends of Youth
   1. Ages 15-22 in need of housing, referrals, food, case management, or shelter can go to 16225 NE 87th St, Ste A-1  Redmond, WA  98052.  Drop-In Center   call for hours at 425.298.4846
   2. Short Term Shelter, guys & girls ages 11-17 – call 24-hours 206.236.437
   3. Overnight Shelter with food, showers, laundry, ages 18-24, open 7 days/week Line up: 8:30-8:45pm    16225 NE 87th St., Ste, A-1 Redmond.  Bus Routes Metro 542 and 545
   4. For the nearest SAFE PLACE location, text the word SAFE and your current location to 69866
6. Lunch for the Break Winter 2015 is here! We will provide each school age child in a family with an extra box of food during Winter Break.  As we slowly expand our program, we are serving families who have children in the following schools: Clark, IVE, Maple Hills, Apollo, Briarwood, Sunset, Issaquah Middle.  All school age children in the family are eligable, but you must have at least one child in a school on the list.  Box pick ups are on Dec. 17 from 2-7pm and you may choose one of two pick up locations: Our Savior Lutheran Church (745 Front St S)  or  Renton location TBD  https://www.issaquahfoodbank.org/calendar/lunch-for-the-break-food-pick-up/ Or  www.LunchForTheBreak.com

1. Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank Holiday Gift Barn  The goal of this program is to help all families with holiday cheer through the giving and sharing of gifts for children birth-18 years old.
   Family registration begins Nov 1.
2. Study Zone at our libraries !  Issaquah, Newcastle, Renton Highlands, and Sammamish libraries offer drop-in for free homework help from trained volunteer tutors during the week !  Check out the KCLS website for days/times at your library, and all other locations. http://kcls.org/calendar/calendar.cfm?view=calendar&ag=Teens&et=&lib=46,%2032,%2049,%2016&kw=&startdate=&enddate=&nd=90
3. Life After High School Programs offered through KCLS   SAT/ACT Math Preparation Tips, The World as Your Classroom, Secrets of College Admissions, Gap Year Study Abroad, College Success for Students with Disabilities, Get a job! The Intelligent Job Search, Your College Planning Checklist    http://www.kcls.org/teens/lifeafterhighschool/
4. Find out if you qualify for a computers and/or free internet access: http://washingtonaccessfund.org/free-and-low-cost-computers/
5. Issaquah School District students with financial hardship may be eligible for a free computer.  Please contact your school office to learn how to apply.

Donation Ask (Outreach): please bring non-perishable snacks for YWCA Village After School Program (granola bars, dried fruit, etc) to the meeting.

Voting Delegate Form due. Form Link.

Council Fees are due by October 31st. Form Link.

Standards of Affiliation Information & Form Link. Must be submitted or postmarked by October 31st. Required for insurance.

2015-16 WSPTA Deadline Dates can be found HERE in one handy document!

Approved Training:  2014 Tax Prep Workshop October 13th 10a-1p or October 21st 6-9p at the LWSD Resource Center. RSVP to wendydelong@comcast.net.  See FLYER  for details.

Here is more information about the Senate Early Learning and K-12 Education Committee Working/Listening Tour. The one nearest to Issaquah is in Renton on October 19th, from 5-7 p.m. at the Renton ESD (Educational Service District), 800 Oakesdale Ave. SW, Renton 98057. It is an opportunity for people to make their voices heard regarding their thoughts on local school levies and how the State should fund K-12 education without reliance on local levies.

“The format of the meetings are as follows:

• The meetings will be scheduled from 5 – 7 p.m.
• The public will be asked to sign-in and indicate whether they want to comment.
• The agenda for the meetings is as follows:
  • A short PowerPoint presented by staff and/or legislators to provide context.
  • Comments from a panel of invited local representatives who are members of WSSDA, WASA, WASBO, AWSP, WEA, PSE, and PTA, especially focusing on the appropriate use of local levy funds, TRI contracts, regional pay, and how to transition to the State meeting its constitutional obligation to fund education without reliance on local levies.
  • The remaining time (30-45 minutes) will be for public comment.  Each individual will be limited to 3 minutes.”

New publication: smARTS for Students, a partnership of ArtsEd Washington and the Washington State PTA.

PTA Monthly Checklist – July-October 2015   &  Full Year

Nourish Every Mind date changes:
*Luncheon: Thursday, April 28, 2016
*Breakfast: Wednesday, May 4, 2016

What a great start to the year we have some units who have already gone above and beyond their closing numbers for last year……lets hear it for:

Newcastle ~ Creekside ~ Clark

Maywood Middle ~ PCMS

Event reminder: Introduction to the American School System: Who Are We In Issaquah?

Thursday, October 29, at 6:30pm at Issaquah Valley Elementary School. Flyer
Free child care and snacks.
Interpretation available in Mandarin, Spanish and Korean
If you need interpretation in another language, please contact Rosann Rankin by Oct 15 at RankinR@issaquah.wednet.edu
District parents and staff will share information and answer questions.

Sept. 23rd the School Board voted unanimously for the Superintendent to prepare an election resolution for a $533,500,000 bond measure targeted for an April 26, 2016ballot measure. The next school board mtg on Oct 14th, they plan to vote to approve the ballot resolution language. Once we have the official ballot language for April 2016, we’ll be able to give you clear details on how you can support and endorse the April 2016 School Bond.

For any PTA that would like to endorse at a General Meeting prior to Oct 16th, Dawn or Alicia can provide you with the verbiage you can use to make a general endorsement. Remember that until your PTA members endorse at a GM meeting, your PTA cannot advocate for a “Vote Yes” on websites or emails. IMPORTANT: PTAs may not, at anytime, use school e-news to promote a “yes” vote.  We will send Presidents/VIS Reps two types of communication for use. One – a District approved piece that PTAs can use in PTA e-news; plus a call to action “vote yes” piece that can be used on PTA websites and PTA emails only. These “vote yes” pieces can only be used if your PTA has officially endorsed the bond.

10/10 (Saturday), LW Resource Center Board Room, Redmond, 9am-12pm (8:30 registration)

10/29 (Thursday), KCLS Service Center, Issaquah, 9:30am-12:30pm (9:15 registration)

11/5 (Thursday), Mercer Island Administration Building, 9:30am-12:30pm (9am registration)