Monday Messages October 3, 2022 for GUSD Families

GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT Monday Message October 3, 2022       A MESSAGE FROM GUSD ADMINISTRATION   Mark Your Calendars Friday, October 7, 5:30-7:30pm - GPA 1st "Skate & Donate" of the year Monday, October 10 - GPA Jog-A-Thon T-shirt Designs due to office Tuesday, October 11, 5pm - GUSD Board Meeting Thursday, October 20, 6pm - GPA Board Meeting   Lunch Menu To view the entire October menu click here for English or Spanish .  Fruits &/or Veggies are offered with all meals.  Meals are not offered a la carte  Menu items are subject to change.  All student meals are free of charge.  Vegetarian and vegan option are available upon request - Please send in a letter to the office if there are any dietary restrictions.    Mon 3 Tue 4 Wed 5 Thu 6 Fri 7 Ceareal & Cheese Stick Waffle Bagel & Cream Cheese Breakfast Sandwich Yogurt & Granola Bean & Cheese Burrito Beef & Veggie Taco Eggroll Chicken Tenders BBQ Chicken Patty Fruits & Veggies Fruits & Veggies Fruits & Veggies Fruits & Veggies Fruits & Veggies   Dave Rose Keri Pugno Will Deeths drose@grav.k12.ca.us kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us   GRAVENSTEIN PARENT ASSOCIATION   Gravenstein/Hillcrest 1st “Skate & Donate” of the year!!   Oct. 7th 2022 -  5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Be the class with the best attendance   Winning Class Gets FREE GLOW NOVELTY! **Bring your friends & family & count them towards your class** Admission: $8.00 Quad Skate Rental $3.00 (quads or inlines) (no fee for spectating/supervising adults) This is a fundraising event for your school-show your support! (No passes or coupons) This is not a district or school sponsored activity. The district is not liable for injuries that occur during this activity. No school supervision provided Cal Skate-6100 Commerce Blvd. Rohnert Park Info:585-0494/www.calskate.com   Contest Time!! Design our Jog a thon T-Shirt for this year *Open to all grade levels *Drawing must be done on a 8.5 x 11 White paper (Include the event name and year) On a separate sheet of paper, please include your name and grade *Turn into office by Oct 10th Winner will be announced when shirts are done!   Upcoming Board Meeting: Thursday, October 20, 2022 at 6:00pm Hillcrest Middle School in Room 5   Follow Us On Social Media Stay up to date in the quickest way by following us on Facebook and Instagram .  Tag your photos with #wearegpa to show your school pride!   COUNSELORS' CORNER     Coping Skills   A coping skill is the way that you handle your anger, stress, anxiety, fear or any other feeling! A good coping skill is one that helps you feel better in the moment without hurting yourself or anyone else.  It is also one that doesn't get you into any trouble now or later. A poor coping skill is one that might feel good when you use it, but it ends up hurting you or other people.  Using a poor coping skill for a long time can be harmful. Please see the attached flyer in English or Spanish for examples of Good and Poor choices.   Fun Crafting Ideas Here are some ideas for fall crafts to do at home with your children. 20+ Fall Crafts for Kids - Easy Fall Project Ideas for Kids 2022 (thecreativeshour.com)   Hillcrest Counseling Facebook Page Click on the link below to to view all the resources available to you and your family on the Hillcrest Counseling Facebook page. Hillcrest Middle School Counseling Page   WHAT'S NEW at GRAVENSTEIN ELEMENTARY?   Art Class Funnies In conjunction with the art class study of Wayne Thibaud this trimester, Mrs. Ricciardi decided to include a weekly comic in Monday Messages. This piece was done by 4th Grader Shelby Zavala!   Parent-Teacher Conferences Thank you to all families that were able to meet with their child’s teacher this past week for Parent-Teacher Conferences.  Children’s success in school increases when they know there is a strong relationship with their teacher and the school.  Our hope is that every family was able to meet with their child’s teacher.  If you had to cancel or were unable to set a conference time, please reach out to your child’s teacher to set up a phone, zoom, or in-person meeting.   Gravenstein’s “Goblins, Gowns, and Garden Day” was Amazing! We had a wonderful turnout at Saturday’s Garden Day.  Families visited the MPR to look through 100 free Halloween costumes!  A huge ‘thank you’ to Vanessa Bird for storing and organizing the costumes and to GPA for providing snacks and drinks.  Our garden beds are ready for classrooms to start planting!     Apple Day- a Grade 1 Tradition! Each of our grade 1 classes recently celebrated Apple Day with a wide variety of taste testing, measuring, art, experiments, and other games.  Thank you to all of the parent volunteers who were able to help run the multiple centers in each classroom.  We are so excited to return to these amazing in-person traditions at Gravenstein.    Skate Night is this Friday! The first Skate Night for this year will be this Friday.  It will be held at CalSkate in Rohnert Park, 5:30-7:30.  The cost is $11.00 for admission and skate rental (your choice of quads or inlines).  If you have your own skates, admission is $8.00.  There is no fee for non-skaters.  This is a popular event for the whole family!  While there may be many Gravenstein Staff members present, there is no school supervision provided.     Don’t Forget!  Gravenstein Elementary School is Now on Facebook and Twitter!  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GravensteinElementary/ Twitter @GravElementary   WHAT'S NEW at HILLCREST MIDDLE SCHOOL?   Analy Parent Night 8th Grade parents, Analy High School Showcase Night is  October 18th from 6 - 7:30 pm. This is your chance to learn  more about all that Analy has to offer!   Technology High School Counselors from Technology High School in Rohnert Park will be making a presentation at lunch on October 17th, 2022.  This is a great opportunity to learn more about what Tech High has to offer.   Absences Reminders An important reminder that if your student is going to be absent from school for any reason, you  must   call (707) 823-7653 or email ( hmsabsences@grav.k12.ca.us ) the front office the same day your child is absent.  If your student is ill and needs to leave school early, they must come to the main office to contact you as we need to know who is coming and going at all times.   House Games The schedule for House Flag Football Games for the week of 10/03/22. Students from these grades and Houses who want to participate can sign up on the day of the game during break on the BlackTop. Please see Mr. Peters to sign up or Mr. Sotiras with any questions.   Monday 10/3 6th FLAG FOOTBALL Ballotti vs Burbank Tuesday 10/4 6th FLAG FOOTBALL O'farrell vs Libby Wednesday 10/5 7th FLAG FOOTBALL Ballotti vs Burbank   Yearbook Cover Contest The Hillcrest Yearbook class is having a Yearbook Cover Competition!  Please submit your submissions to the front office or Ms. Deeths or Mr. Sotiras by Friday October 14th, 2022.  The theme is: “Once a Hawk always a Hawk"   Do You Love to Sing, but Don't Like Singing by Yourself?   Do you love to sing?  Is your voice your main instrument…Or, maybe, you like to sing but are nervous to do it by yourself?  Hillcrest choir is a great choice for you. In the choir, we will work on vocal strength, agility, ear training, pitch, and harmony all while singing some fun songs.  Although there will be a little sight reading, you don’t have to know how to read before you join.  This class will be taught by singer-songwriter vocal-instrumental recording and performing artist, Spencer Burrows - founder of The Great Burro Studios and Frobeck Music.  Zero period Choir meets in the HMS Band Room every Friday at 7:30!   Knitting Club The Knitting Club is on Fridays in Room 7. You don’t know how to knit? No problem- we will help you learn! Make hats, scarves and more with Ms. Garson and Ms. Cole! If you have any knitting supplies gathering dust in your home and would like to donate them to this brand new club, please email  scole@grav.k12.ca.us   Come Join the GSA Meeting on Tuesday   Our Hillcrest GSA club, in support of the LGBTQ+ community, is meeting again this week!    Hillcrest Hawks who are interested in participating should plan on coming to the meeting on Tuesday during lunch!  Location of the meeting will be announced on Tuesday.   Come Meet and Join the Green Team   The Green Team will meet every Wednesday in room 1 from 12:15 - 12:35.   Afternoon Pick Up- Important reminders This is an important reminder that students are NOT to be picked up on Bloomfield Road.  Students may not walk up the stairs from Hillcrest to Bloomfield unless they are walking to their own home.   Students are required to have a Walking or Biking from School form on file in order to leave campus at the end of the day via Bloomfield road. When you pull into the parking lot, please use both lanes and then merge when you make the turn by the chain link fence. Please pull as far down the curb in front of Hillcrest Hall as possible to stop and pick up your student.  If possible, arrive 10 minutes after the dismissal time. We have found that by this time both Bloomfield Road and our parking lot  are much easier for our families to access.   Cell Phone Policy Reminders Cell phones are only to be used after school in the Duck Pond to contact parents or guardians. Cell phones should be off and put away from the moment you arrive on campus. Any violation of the cell phone policy can lead to disciplinary action.     Facebook Are you curious about what is happening at Hillcrest Middle School? Want to keep up to date on activities and events? Want a glimpse into the classroom and see what our teachers are teaching and what your students are learning? If so then make sure you go to Facebook and follow Hillcrest Middle School - Sebastopol !   GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD   Gregory Appling, President - gappling@grav.k12.ca.us Jeri McNeill, Clerk -   jmcneill@grav.k12.ca.us Alex Kahn, Trustee - akahn@grav.k12.ca.us Patrick Lei, Trustee - plei@grav.k12.ca.us   WEBSITE           ABOUT US           MENUS             SCHEDULES   Elementary School Website Middle School  Website Creative  Arts Program  

Monday, Oct 03 2022

Monday Messages September 26, 2022 for GUSD Families

GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT Monday Message September 26, 2022       A MESSAGE FROM GUSD ADMINISTRATION   Substitutes Needed!! Are you interested in working with us as a substitute?  We are in need of  substitutes   at  both  Gravenstein and Hillcrest.  Sometimes we have planned absences and sometimes we don't know we will need a substitute until the morning of.  They can also be for one day or several days.  If you are interested, come by the office and pick up an application.  All positions require fingerprinting (we pay for it) and working in Food Services would also require a physical (we pay for this too).  Please return your paperwork or forward any questions you may have to Melacha Quirke in the Gravenstein District Office.     To mail in or drop off the forms our new address is 725 Bloomfield Rd, Sebastopol, CA  95472 (Hillcrest Campus).  If you have any questions Melacha (M ē  laka) can be reached by phone at (707) 823-7008 or email at  mquirke@grav.k12.ca.us     Job Opening We currently have a job opening for a Full-time Custodian.  If you are interested in joining our team, please click  here  or go to  edjoin.org  for more information and to apply.     Mark Your Calendars Friday, September 30 - No School Tuesday, October 11, 5pm - GUSD Board Meeting Thursday, October 20, 6pm - GPA Board Meeting Parent-Teacher Conferences:  No School for Students on Friday, September 30th     Lunch Menu To view the entire September menu click here for  English  or  Spanish .  Fruits &/or Veggies are offered with all meals.  Meals are not offered a la carte  Menu items are subject to change.  All student meals are free of charge.  Vegetarian and vegan option are available upon request - Please send in a letter to the office if there are any dietary restrictions.      Mon 26 Tue 27 Wed 28 Thu 29 Fri 30 Cereal & CHeese Stick Waffle Fruit Pastry Manager's Choice Breakfast Burrito Bean & Cheese Burrito Taco Tuesday Corn Dog Chicken & Veggie Tostada Manager's Choice Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies   Dave Rose Keri Pugno Will Deeths drose@grav.k12.ca.us kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us   GRAVENSTEIN PARENT ASSOCIATION   Enrichment Highlight of the Week:  STEM with Mr. Mitchel During STEM class students have been building boats and structures out of toothpicks and corks. These engineering projects cover several of the Next Generation Science Standards. The students worked really hard on their designs and built some amazing boats. Students were so excited that several 2nd graders got together for a play date the following day to race their boats! "Science is fun.  Science is curiosity.  We all have natural curiosity.  Science is a process of investigating.  It's posing questions and coming up with a method.  It's delving in." -Sally Ride STEM as well as the many other amazing enrichment classes offered at GUSD are completely PARENT FUNDED.  If you haven't filled out the pledge form , it's not too late!  Every dollar counts! Thank you for supporting the Enrich Program so we can continue to have amazing classes like STEM with Mr. M as we invest in the next generation of scientists!   Upcoming Board Meeting: Thursday, October 20, 2022 at 6:00pm Hillcrest Middle School in Room    Follow Us On Social Media Stay up to date in the quickest way by following us on Facebook and Instagram .  Tag your photos with #wearegpa to show your school pride!   COUNSELORS' CORNER     I have attached the following article from NAMI about the importance of peer support within mental health.  Years ago I worked as a substance abuse counselor at a residential facility.  I was able to see firsthand how effective it can be when  people use their own experiences to help one another.  There are different types of peer support, but they all aim to bring people together to share experiences to help each other through any  worries , problems, or  difficulties .  Peer support groups provide a space where everyone feels accepted and understood - and each problem is treated equally .    Studies  have shown peer support, particularly within mental health services, can lead to an increased sense of hope and a feeling of empowerment, and can also diminish feelings of isolation. A Simple, Yet Powerful Solution to the Mental Health Crisis: Peer Support | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness   Hillcrest Counseling Facebook Page Click on the link below to to view all the resources available to you and your family on the Hillcrest Counseling Facebook page. Hillcrest Middle School Counseling Page   WHAT'S NEW at GRAVENSTEIN ELEMENTARY?   October 1, 9:00 - 11:30am - Gravenstein's First Annual "Goblins, Gowns, and Garden Day" We invite all Gravenstein families to join us on Saturday, October  1, from 9:00 - 11:30am, as we work to prepare the Gravenstein garden spaces for fall plantings.  It will be a get-the-school-garden-spaces-ready morning combined with our very own Gravenstein Halloween Costume “Shop”.   We currently  have approximately 100 costumes!  This program was envisioned in part as a climate action initiative with the idea of reusing and repurposing materials to reduce consumer waste.  The garden activities will be simple - weeding, watering, and spreading new soil or wood chips.   If you would like more information, please contact Vanessa Bird  at:   vanessarosemarsh@gmail.com .   Annual Online Registration Thank you to everyone who has completed their annual online registration.   We are trying to make sure that all forms are complete so that reports can be run for each classroom teacher.  If you have received an email notice regarding an incomplete or missing form, your prompt attention to that request is greatly appreciated.    Lost and Found is Overflowing Please help remind your child to look through the Lost-and-Found for any missing items.  Our hangars are full and the wagon is overflowing!  All items have been on display in the courtyard this past week and then moved down to the lower lot for Beyond-the-Bell parents to look through.  We will display items in the courtyard once again this coming week.  All lost-and-found items not claimed will be donated at the end of Friday, 9/30/2022.   Important AM Beyond-the-Bell Announcement In order to improve both efficiency and student safety, we are making a slight change to our AM Beyond-the-Bell check-in procedure.  Student check-in will continue to be offered as early as 7:00 AM, but will now take place in the MPR. Parents will drive onto the lower lot circle (we will have the yellow gates pulled aside beginning at 7:00AM) and students will exit cars and walk up to the MPR.  We will no longer be using room 15 in the AM.  Ms. Cat will have her check-in computer right outside the MPR door nearest the blue tables, visible to the students being dropped off for Beyond-the-Bell.  As always, students are expected to check in with a Beyond-the-Bell Staff member before they begin playing.   We ask parents that are dropping students off for Beyond-the-Bell after 7:55 AM (when the lower lot opens for regular student drop-off), to use the lower lot and follow the established traffic patterns for student drop-off.  Our hope is that this improves both the efficiency and safety of our morning routine.  If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Meggan Young, our Beyond-the-Bell Director, at  myoung@grav.k12.ca.us .      Don’t Forget!  Gravenstein Elementary School is Now on Facebook and Twitter!  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GravensteinElementary/ Twitter @GravElementary   WHAT'S NEW at HILLCREST MIDDLE SCHOOL?   Parent / Teacher Conference Day 6th Grade As all of our 6th graders are new Hillcrest, the 6th grade teachers made the decision to use their conference time on select students.   As they did last year, the Hillcrest 6th grade teachers will be reaching out to individual families of students that are not working up to their potential.  They will arrange conferences with those families.  Not all families will be contacted for a conference. **** DROP IN CONFERENCES WITH 6TH GRADE TEACHERS WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE ON CONFERENCE DAY****   7th & 8th Grade 7th & 8th grade teachers will conference as follows:   Conferences will be held on Friday September 30th from 8:30- 3:15 (teachers will be at lunch from 11:30-12:30)   The hallways in the 7th & 8th grade wings will be open.  Parents can sign up on conference day to meet with teachers individually in the hallway.  For each conference, teachers will bring parents into the classroom for an individual meeting. Conferences will be on a first come first serve basis.   Each hallway will have a waiting area and a signup list for each teacher.   In order to allow our families to see as many teachers as possible, each conference will be from 5 to 10 minutes in length. Elective and Physical Education teachers will be available in their individual classrooms or Hillcrest Hall for conferences.   Our recommendations to our Hillcrest families that are NOT able to come to Hillcrest for a conference:   Check the student planner on a daily basis to make sure that all assignments are written down along with the due dates.   Login into Schoolwise- our student information system. Current grades are posted here from all teachers   Contact any of your students' teachers if you have specific questions about your child's progress.   8th Grade Yosemite Trip The 8th Grade Yosemite Trip is just days away!  Parents - we are in need of the Field Trip Donation dropped off in the Main Office this coming week!  Donations are not required however in order for Hillcrest Middle School to keep offering these amazing experiences to our students, we need our school communities' support!   Student Progress Reports are Coming Soon Progress Reports will be brought home by Hillcrest students on Thursday September 29th.  Please keep your copy of the Progress Report, sign the envelope and have your student return it to their 1st period teacher or to the Main Office.   Lost & Found is Overflowing The Hillcrest Lost & Found is OVERFLOWING with items forgotten by HMS students!  Please check the Lost and Found - located outside the backdoor of the HMS Main Office - for any misplaced items.  Anything not claimed by the end of lunch on Thursday September 29th will be donated!   House Games The schedule for House Flag Football Games for the week of 09/26/22.  Students from these grades and Houses who want to participate can sign up on the day of the game during break on the BlackTop.  Please see Mr. Peters to sign up or Mr. Sotiras with any questions. 6th Grade - Burbank vs Ballotti - Tuesday  8th Grade - O’Farrell vs Libby - Wednesday   Yearbook Cover Art Contest The Hillcrest Yearbook class is having a Yearbook Cover Competition!  Please submit your submissions to the front office or Ms. Deeths or Mr. Sotiras by Friday October 14th, 2022. The theme is:   “Once a Hawk always a Hawk"   Do You Love to Sing, but Don't Like Singing by Yourself? Do you love to sing?  Is your voice your main instrument…Or, maybe, you like to sing but are nervous to do it by yourself?  Hillcrest choir is a great choice for you. In the choir, we will work on vocal strength, agility, ear training, pitch, and harmony all while singing some fun songs.  Although there will be a little sight reading, you don’t have to know how to read before you join.  This class will be taught by singer-songwriter vocal-instrumental recording and performing artist, Spencer Burrows - founder of The Great Burro Studios and Frobeck Music.  Zero period Choir meets in the HMS Band Room every Friday at 7:30!   Knitting Club The Knitting Club is on Fridays in Room 7.  You don’t know how to knit?  No problem - we will help you learn!  Make hats, scarves and more with Ms. Garson and Ms. Cole!  If you have any knitting supplies gathering dust in your home and would like to donate them to this brand new club, please email: Sam Cole at  scole@grav.k12.ca.us   Come Join the GSA Meeting on Tuesday Our Hillcrest GSA club, in support of the LGBTQ+ community, is meeting again this week!    Hillcrest Hawks who are interested in participating should plan on coming to the meeting on Tuesday during lunch!  Location of the meeting will be announced on Tuesday.   Come Meet and Join the Green Team The Green Team will meet every Wednesday in room 1 from 12:15 - 12:35.   Afternoon Pick-Up IMPORTANT REMINDERS This is an important reminder that students are NOT to be picked up on Bloomfield Road.  Students may not walk up the stairs from Hillcrest to Bloomfield unless they are walking to their own home.   Students are required to have a Walking or Biking from School form on file in order to leave campus at the end of the day via Bloomfield road. When you pull into the parking lot, please use both lanes and then merge when you make the turn by the chain link fence Please pull as far down the curb in front of Hillcrest Hall as possible to stop and pick up your student.  If possible, arrive 10 minutes after the dismissal time.  We have found that by this time both Bloomfield Road and our parking lot  are much easier for our families to access.   Cell Phone Reminders Cell phones are only to be used after school in the Duck Pond to contact parents or guardians. Cell phones should be off and put away from the moment you arrive on campus. Any violation of the cell phone policy can lead to disciplinary action.     Facebook Are you curious about what is happening at Hillcrest Middle School? Want to keep up to date on activities and events? Want a glimpse into the classroom and see what our teachers are teaching and what your students are learning? If so then make sure you go to Facebook and follow Hillcrest Middle School - Sebastopol !   GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD   Gregory Appling, President - gappling@grav.k12.ca.us Jeri McNeill, Clerk -   jmcneill@grav.k12.ca.us Alex Kahn, Trustee - akahn@grav.k12.ca.us Patrick Lei, Trustee - plei@grav.k12.ca.us   WEBSITE           ABOUT US           MENUS             SCHEDULES   Elementary School Website Middle School  Website Creative  Arts Program  

Sunday, Sep 25 2022

Monday Messages September 19, 2022 for GUSD Families

GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT Monday Message September 19, 2022     A MESSAGE FROM GUSD ADMINISTRATION   Job Opening We currently have a job opening for a Full-time Custodian.  If you are interested in joining our team, please click here or go to edjoin.org for more information and to apply.   Parent Education Night - Resilience as a Response to COVID in our Local Schools Next Tuesday September 20th, 2022 from 5:30-7:30 in Hillcrest Band Room the Gravenstein Health Action Coalition will host a presentation entitled:   "Resilience as a response to COVID in our Local Schools"   This is open to all GUSD parents and guardians.    Substitutes Needed!! Are you interested in working with us?  We are in need of  substitutes  for Instructional Assistants, Food Services, and School Secretaries at  both  Gravenstein and Hillcrest.  Sometimes we have planned absences and sometimes we don't know we will need a substitute until the morning of.  They can also be for one day or several days.  If you are interested, come by the office and pick up an application.  All positions require fingerprinting (we pay for it) and working in Food Services would also require a physical (we pay for this too).  Please return your paperwork or forward any questions you may have to Melacha Quirke in the Gravenstein District Office.   To mail in or drop off the forms our new address is 725 Bloomfield Rd, Sebastopol, CA  95472 (Hillcrest Campus).  If you have any questions Melacha (M ē  laka) can be reached by phone at (707) 823-7008 or email at  mquirke@grav.k12.ca.us   Mark Your Calendars Tuesday, September 20, 5:30 - 7:30pm - Parent Education Night - in the Hillcrest Band room Friday, September 30 - No School Thursday, October 20, 6pm - GPA Board Meeting Parent-Teacher Conferences:  No School for Students on Friday, September 30th   Lunch Menu To view the entire September menu click here for  English  or  Spanish .  Fruits &/or Veggies are offered with all meals.  Meals are not offered a la carte  Menu items are subject to change.  All student meals are free of charge.  Vegetarian and vegan option are available upon request - Please send in a letter to the office if there are any dietary restrictions.     Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Cereal & Cheese Stick Muffin & Cheese Stick Cheese Croissant Bagel Frittata Hotdog Taco Tuesday Pizza Pupusa Pesto Chicken Sandwich Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggie   Dave Rose Keri Pugno Will Deeths drose@grav.k12.ca.us kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us   GRAVENSTEIN PARENT ASSOCIATION   Wine Raffle Winners!! Mark & Vanessa Nordstrom Elenor Frank Eric Wittenberg Claire & Jesus Chavez Youfeng Wang Griselda & Eric Burrage Samara & Eric Stevens Stephanie Johnson & Torrey Lincoln Cullen & Kimberly Ramos Kate Evenbeck Thank you to everyone who got their pledge forms in by September 9th.   We are still accepting pledge forms.   Please put the amount you can contribute - even it if it is "0" at this time.  It helps tremendously with GPA's yearly budget planning. Parent financial support through your donations to GPA is what funds the Enrichment program at GUSD.  Without that support we could not have STEM, Spanish, Music, Movement, Zero Period PE, Makers Lab and the many other AMAZING enrichments available at GUSD.  Please consider supporting the Enrich program today!    Link to Pledge Form Link to  Donation Page   Upcoming Board Meeting: Thursday, October 20, 2022 at 6:00pm Hillcrest Middle School in Room 5   Follow Us On Social Media Stay up to date in the quickest way by following us on Facebook and Instagram .  Tag your photos with #wearegpa to show your school pride!   COUNSELORS' CORNER     As fall is approaching and the days are getting shorter, it is important to remember to spend time outdoors, especially since many children have become dependent on their devices.   Time spent outdoors is known to help relieve stress and anxiety in children by reducing levels of the hormone cortisol in the brain.  In addition,  the following physiological changes may have a powerful impact on the emotional states of both kids and parents: lowered blood pressure and heart rate increased vitamin D improved sleep quality and increased duration increased overall well-being improved cognition and creativity less rumination improved relationships Here are some ideas for getting your children outside: 1. VISIT THEIR FAVORITE ANIMAL If your children love a particular animal, take them to a zoo or aquarium where they can see it in person.  You’ll have an easier time if their creature of interest is more common, but these places make for exciting trips.  While you’re there, you can talk to them about why aquariums and zoos  are vital to keeping species alive  that no longer have a home. 2. GO ON A NATURE WALK Your adventurous kids may love taking a walk through your backyard or on a nearby path.  While you’re out there, you can point out different animals and plants to them, potentially talking about why they’re vital to the ecosystem. 3. GROW THINGS TOGETHER Have you always wanted to start a garden?  Are you thinking about expanding the one you already have?  Encourage your children to help out in the garden   How to Plant a California Fall Garden - California Grown .  Show them how to nurture the plants and talk about what beautiful flowers or nutritious food they will become. 4. TAKE THEM CAMPING I f a childhood camping trip inspired your love of the outdoors, it may do the same for your kids.  There are tons of activities you can get up to while camping that can have your children begging to go again before the summer ends.  Not to mention,  getting them away from technology  can help them discover many benefits and skills. 5. SLEEP OUTSIDE If you can’t find a place to take a camping trip, try creating your own campground in the backyard, especially if the weather continues to be hot! 6. CREATE A FAIRY HOME Adding some mystical whimsicalness to your kids’ nature education can help them find fascination whether they’re younger or older.  As you’re  gathering materials from your yard , talk to them about how some tinier wildlife or even a fairy could move into the little house they’re creating.  Mixing magic with outdoor exploration may excite them about the outdoors. 7. TEACH THEM ABOUT CONSERVATION If you want your children to learn about the environment early, you can talk to them and teach them how to protect it.  These lessons will  influence your kids as they grow , so find fun ways to do it while discussing the importance.  For example, they may love “adopting” an endangered animal so they can learn about what to do to help these creatures. 8. OBSERVE LOCAL WILDLIFE Grab a pair of binoculars and see what you can spot around your house, at the coast, or at the river.  If there’s a creek near your home, take some nets there and try to catch some frogs or fish.  Learning about nature and seeing it in real life could be very exciting for them.  For older children, I would suggest taking them out on a kayak, there are so many great spots to go in Sonoma County. 9. STARGAZE AND CLOUDGAZE Help your kids with their creativity and find beauty in the sky by playing games as you gaze upward.  During the day, you can spot different kinds of clouds and say what you think they look like.  Other children might be fascinated by the night sky, so try teaching them about the constellations, see which ones you can find, or make up your own together. 10. EXIST IN NATURE If you want to encourage them to be outside more, take playtime out there.  You can either bring their toys or help them find some natural ones.  Quieter children may enjoy just reading a book with you and soaking up the sun. All these ideas are great for all ages, however, I would suggest allowing your older children to bring a friend since friendships can be motivating.  If you live in a community, allow your older children to take trips to the ice cream shop on their bike or to the store to do an errand. It is easy for kids to start loving being outside – you just have to display your own excitement and happiness.  The most important thing you can do when trying out any of these tips is to show them how much you love being outdoors with them. This way, they could come to love nature as much as you do and  help create a world that values it , too.   Hillcrest Counseling Facebook Page Click on the link below to to view all the resources available to you and your family on the Hillcrest Counseling Facebook page. Hillcrest Middle School Counseling Page   WHAT'S NEW at GRAVENSTEIN ELEMENTARY?   October 1- Gravenstein’s First Annual “Goblins, Gowns, and Garden Day” We invite all Gravenstein families to join us on Saturday, October 1, as we work to prepare the Gravenstein garden spaces for fall plantings.  It will be a get-the-school-garden-spaces-ready morning combined with our very own Gravenstein Halloween Costume “Shop”.   We currently have approximately 100 costumes!  This program was envisioned in part as a climate action initiative with the idea of reusing and repurposing materials to reduce consumer waste.  The garden activities will be simple- weeding, watering, and spreading new soil or wood chips.   If you would like more information, please contact Vanessa Bird  at:   vanessarosemarsh@gmail.com .    School Lunch Reminders Our lunch program continues to grow and feed over 200 students every day- without any cost to families!  The grants and funding sources that make this possible require strict accordance to USDA-approved recipes and healthy serving portion sizes.  Students are always allowed unlimited vegetables, but they are limited to one main meal choice and one serving of fruit.  For some students with a larger appetite, they may be used to larger portions.  We are not able to give a second meal serving, so we encourage parents to check in with their child in order to determine if an extra snack from home is needed.   Student Dismissal / Pick-Up Reminders I would first like to thank all of our parents (and grandparents!) that are abiding by all traffic/driving laws and patiently waiting in the line until students dismiss and the line begins to move.  As a reminder, our grade 1/2 students do not dismiss until 3:20 on most days.  Parents that arrive early to pick up a grade 1/2 student are creating more traffic as they interfere with the groups that dismiss at 3:05.  Early 1/2 parents will be asked to park or circle around until the 3:20 dismissal.  This is the same on Early Release Days, when grades 1/2 are the last to dismiss at 1:45.  If these parents arrive early, they interfere with the grade 3-5 families trying to pick up from the 1:30 dismissal.   Another occurrence that is creating more traffic at pick-up is when students go check in at Beyond-the-Bell, yet a parent arrives to pick them up.  Moving forward, staff will direct these cars out of the upper circle and these students will need to be picked up in the normal Beyond-the-Bell pick up location in the lower lot.  If your plans unexpectedly change at the last minute and your child will not need to attend Beyond-the-Bell one afternoon, please call the office at (707) 823-5361 so that Office Staff can alert the classroom teacher and Beyond-the-Bell Staff.   Don’t Forget!  Gravenstein Elementary School is Now on Facebook and Twitter!  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GravensteinElementary/ Twitter @GravElementary   WHAT'S NEW at HILLCREST MIDDLE SCHOOL?   Rainy Days at Hillcrest It appears that rain is forecast for the coming week.  The following are the procedures for rainy days at Hillcrest:   In the mornings before school -  All students will go into the gym.  Zero period PE may end 5 minutes early to accommodate the students in the gym.    Break time -  All students will be in the gym for break.  Breakfast will be served from the lunch window inside the gym.  Lunchtime -    For the 1st 20 minutes of lunch -   8th grade students will eat in the gym first.   6th & 7th grade students will go to their assigned classrooms and watch a video - these rooms will be assigned to students the first rainy day lunch    For the 2nd 20 minutes of lunch -   8th grade students will go to their assigned classrooms and watch a video - these rooms will be assigned to students the first rainy day lunch    6th & 7th grade students will go in the gym and eat   Hillcrest Gardening Enrichment Thanks Grab N' Grow The Hillcrest Gardening enrichment would like to thank Grab N' Grow Soil Products for their generous donation of organic gardening soil for our program.  The students have now finished construction of two large planting beds and hope to have two additional beds  in production by the end of the trimester.  Thank you, Grab N' Grow for your support!    Hillcrest Spring Musical -  The Addams Family Hillcrest Middle School's spring musical will be  The Addams Family .  There will be an information meeting during lunch on Monday, October 10.  Auditions will be on October 17 and 18 from 3:30-5:00.  Rehearsals will be on Mondays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:30, starting on October 24.   Don't be Surprised, Use the SchoolWise Parent Portal Parents - never be surprised when Progress Reports or Report Cards come home! Login to the SchoolWise Parent Portal and keep track of your students' grades!    Do You Love to Sing, but Don't Like Singing by Yourself? Do you love to sing?  Is your voice your main instrument…Or, maybe, you like to sing but are nervous to do it by yourself? Hillcrest choir is a great choice for you. In the choir, we will work on vocal strength, agility, ear training, pitch, and harmony all while singing some fun songs. Although there will be a little sight reading, you don’t have to know how to read before you join.  This class will be taught by singer-songwriter vocal-instrumental recording and performing artist, Spencer Burrows - founder of The Great Burro Studios and Frobeck Music. Zero period Choir meets in the HMS Band Room every Friday at 7:30!   Knitting Club Meets Fridays The Knitting Club is on Fridays in Room 7.  You don’t know how to knit?  No problem - we will help you learn!  Make hats, scarves and more with Ms. Garson and Ms. Cole!  If you have any knitting supplies gathering dust in your home and would like to donate them to this brand new club, please email  scole@grav.k12.ca.us   Come Join the GSA Meeting on Tuesday Our Hillcrest GSA club, in support of the LGBTQ+ community, is meeting again this week!    Hillcrest Hawks who are interested in participating should plan on coming to the meeting on Tuesday during lunch!  Location of the meeting will be announced on Tuesday.   Come Meet and Join the Green Team The Green Team will meet every Wednesday in room 1 from 12:15 - 12:35.   Drop-Off and Pick-Up Reminders - Be Safe!! This is an important reminder that students are NOT to be picked up on Bloomfield Road.  Students may not walk up the stairs from Hillcrest to Bloomfield unless they are walking to their own home.   Students are required to have a Walking or Biking from School form on file in order to leave campus at the end of the day via Bloomfield road. When you pull into the parking lot, please use both lanes and then merge when you make the turn by the chain link fence Please pull as far down the curb in front of Hillcrest Hall as possible to stop and pick up your student.  If possible, arrive 10 minutes after the dismissal time.  We have found that by this time both Bloomfield Road and our parking lot  are much easier for our families to access.   Cell Phone Policy Reminder Cell phones are only to be used after school in the Duck Pond to contact parents or guardians. Cell phones should be off and put away from the moment you arrive on campus. Any violation of the cell phone policy can lead to disciplinary action.   Facebook Are you curious about what is happening at Hillcrest Middle School? Want to keep up to date on activities and events? Want a glimpse into the classroom and see what our teachers are teaching and what your students are learning? If so then make sure you go to Facebook and follow Hillcrest Middle School - Sebastopol !   GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD   Gregory Appling, President - gappling@grav.k12.ca.us Jeri McNeill, Clerk -   jmcneill@grav.k12.ca.us Alex Kahn, Trustee - akahn@grav.k12.ca.us Patrick Lei, Trustee - plei@grav.k12.ca.us   WEBSITE           ABOUT US           MENUS             SCHEDULES   Elementary School Website Middle School  Website Creative  Arts Program  

Sunday, Sep 18 2022

Monday Messages September 12, 2022 for GUSD Families

GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT Monday Message September 12, 2022     A MESSAGE FROM GUSD ADMINISTRATION   Come Join the GUSD Racial Justice Committee Meeting The GUSD Racial Justice Committee will hold their first meeting of the year on Monday, September 12th at 5pm via Zoom.  Topic/agenda:  Our goal will be to consider what our committee structure and community work should look like going forward. If you are interested in participating, please attend the meeting. Zoom Link   Meeting ID: 833 9936 5311 Passcode:  965470   We Need You!! Are you interested in working with us?  We are in need of substitutes for Instructional Assistants, Food Services, and School Secretaries at both Gravenstein and Hillcrest.  If you are interested, come by the office and pick up an application.  All positions require fingerprinting (we pay for it) and working in Food Services would also require a physical (we pay for this too).  Please return your paperwork or forward any questions you may have to Melacha Quirke in the Gravenstein District Office. To mail in or drop off the forms our new address is 725 Bloomfield Rd, Sebastopol, CA  95472 (Hillcrest Campus).  If you have any questions Melacha (M ē laka) can be reached by phone at (707) 823-7008 or email at mquirke@grav.k12.ca.us   GUSD Site Council Needs You!! The GUSD Site Council meets at 3:30pm on the third Wednesday of each month for about one hour, and we are currently in need of more parent participation! The Site Council is an important committee that reviews and provides input and offers/considers suggestions on a variety of topics including: student academic progress, School Safety Plans, the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP), the Facilities Master Plan as well as other topics.  We have a meeting format that allows for in-person or Zoom attendance. Here are a couple of our recent agendas:  8/24/22 Agenda  &   5/25/22 Agenda .  Parent voice on this committee is an important component of our planning process.  If you are interested in joining Site Council, please reach out to your site principal, Keri Pugno, Gravenstein @   kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us  or Will Deeths, Hillcrest @  wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us .       Mark Your Calendars Monday, September 12, 5:00pm - Racial Justice Committee - First Meeting of the year via Zoom - Click here to join. Tuesday, September 13, 5:00pm - GUSD Board Meeting -  Click  here  to join. Thursday, September 15th - Hillcrest - Picture Day Thursday, September 15, 6:00pm - GPA - Board Meeting Friday, September 30 - No School   Lunch Menu To view the entire September menu click here for  English  or  Spanish .  Fruits &/or Veggies are offered with all meals.  Meals are not offered a la carte  Menu items are subject to change.  All student meals are free of charge.  Vegetarian and vegan option are available upon request - Please send in a letter to the office if there are any dietary restrictions.   Mon 12 Tue 13 Wed 14 Thu 15 Fri 16 Cereal & Cheese Stick Pancakes French Toast Manager's Choice Boiled Egg & Cracker Chicken Nuggets Taco Tuesday Grilled Ham & Cheese Hamburger Nachos Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies   Dave Rose Keri Pugno Will Deeths drose@grav.k12.ca.us kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us   GRAVENSTEIN PARENT ASSOCIATION   Spotlight on Art Enrich This trimester Kasey Hillier is the artist in residence for Gravenstein's TK and Kinder classes.  "Mrs. H" as the students call her, maintains a website that is updated regularly to feature the lessons being taught in class.  Please check out the 'Gallery' section to see the the most recent lesson and masterpieces created by Gravenstein's own little artists   Amazing classes like this are made possible through your generous support of GPA!  Enrich for All is possible when we all chip in! Check out TK/K Art Enrichment Here:  www.mrshillier.weebly.com   Upcoming Board Meeting: Thursday, September 15, 2022 at 6:00pm Hillcrest Middle School in Room 5   Follow Us On Social Media Stay up to date in the quickest way by following us on Facebook and Instagram .  Tag your photos with #wearegpa to show your school pride!   COUNSELORS' CORNER     Conversation Starters Talking about mental health with your children can be hard.  We worry that we don't know what to say.   We worry that we will say something to upset them. However, one in five children experiences an impairing mental health disorder that can be treatable.   The earlier you have the conversation with your child, the better you can respond and get them help. In recent years, rates of death by suicide and suicidal thinking have increased in young people.  Many parents and caregivers are wary of asking a child if they have suicidal thoughts, intentions, or plans.  Often parents feel afraid that starting the conversation may cause suicidal behavior, but this connection has proven to be false.  Asking about suicide may be a relief for people of all ages.  If your child has a mental health condition, it's important to check-in with them about suicidal thoughts . Talking with your child about their mental health condition is not easy.  However, you are more than capable of opening a dialogue. Here's some ideas to start a conversation... How are you feeling? What do you want to talk about? GENERAL What was the best and worst bit of your day? If you could start today again, what would you do differently? What did you do today that you are proud of? What was the biggest problem you had today? Do you want to talk about what's going on? How can I support you through {issue}? Is there anything that you need from me?  Space, time to talk, do something fun... SERIOUS FUN What's your favorite song at the moment?  Would I like it? If you were an animal which one would you be? If your life was a movie which one would it be? What's your favorite thing about school and why? You're an expert when it comes to your child, and you can tell when they aren't in the mood to talk.  Reassure them that if they don't want to talk now, they can talk to you at any time. You can also follow up a talk with: ENCOURAGERS I love you, nothing will ever change that. We're going to get through  this together. You can talk to me, I'm here for you. It's okay if you want to talk to someone else. Even if I don't understand, know that I want to. If you can tell me what's going on, I can do my best to help. If you are concerned about anything they say, try your best to explain your view point, and clearly state actions you will take. Try to provide comfort and reassurance.   Hillcrest Counseling Facebook Page Click on the link below to to view all the resources available to you and your family on the Hillcrest Counseling Facebook page. Hillcrest Middle School Counseling Page   WHAT'S NEW at GRAVENSTEIN ELEMENTARY?   October 1 - Gravenstein's First Annual "Goblins, Gowns, and Garden Day" On Saturday, October 1, we will host a family event we hope to make a fall tradition.  It will be a morning of gardening combined with the opportunity for families to walk through our very own Gravenstein Halloween Costume “Shop”.  We currently  have approximately 100 costumes!  This program was envisioned in part as a climate action initiative with the idea of reusing and repurposing children’s costumes to reduce consumer waste.  The garden activities will be simple and family-friendly:  weeding, watering, and spreading mulch/wood chips.  If you would like more information, please contact Vanessa Bird at:   vanessarosemarsh@gmail.com .   Reminder for Parents and Guests on Campus It has been wonderful seeing so many of our Gravenstein Parents back on campus.  We are excited to feel our sense of community strengthen and grow.  While we welcome parents and guests onto campus and into the classrooms, we need to ensure we do this in a manner that puts student and staff safety first.  Please know that all classroom visits must be planned with the teacher in advance.  When you arrive to volunteer, it is necessary to sign in at the office and get a visitor’s sticker.  If your child is arriving at school late, please do not walk them to class.  They must check in at the office for a tardy slip and, if necessary, a staff member will walk them to class.  If you have a delivery for the classroom, simply bring it to the office and we will make sure it reaches the right room.  Thank you for understanding and following the safety protocols that we have established to keep Gravenstein a safe place for learning.  Gravenstein Parent Volunteers While each class may have different needs and opportunities, here are the School Requirements that must be met before a parent can volunteer. Application is required - forms are available in the school office or on our website:   Parent Volunteer and Driver Application   Parent-Teacher Conferences Parent-Teacher Conference Day is Friday, September 30.  There is no school for students on this date.  Each teacher is creating a schedule for their parent-teacher conferences.  If you have not yet heard from your child’s teacher, please reach out to the teacher.   Don’t Forget!  Gravenstein Elementary School is Now on Facebook and Twitter!  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GravensteinElementary/ Twitter @GravElementary   WHAT'S NEW at HILLCREST MIDDLE SCHOOL?   The Spring Musical will be  The Addams Family Hillcrest Middle School's spring musical will be  The Addams Family .  There will be an information meeting during lunch on Monday, October 10.  Auditions will be on October 17 and 18 from 3:30-5:00.  Rehearsals will be on Mondays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:30, starting on October 24.   Hillcrest Athletics 7th & 8th Grade Girls Volleyball -   Sign-ups for 7th and 8th grade girls volleyball are on the student council google classroom. 6th Grade Flag Football -  6th Grade Flag Football Jerseys will be handed out at lunch on Monday - Room 18 at the beginning of lunch   Don't be Surprised, Use the SchoolWise Parent Portal Parents - never be surprised when Progress Reports or Report Cards come home! Login to the SchoolWise Parent Portal and keep track of your students' grades!    HMS Spirit Store Closes Today More sizes, more styles and more colors are available on our HMS Spirit Store than in the HMS Office.  Order online today and your new items will be delivered to campus by the end of September.  Use this  link   to purchase your HAWK gear today!   The store closes at midnight on Sunday, September 11th.   Picture Day is This THURSDAY!! HMS Picture Day is this Thursday, September 15th, 2022!  Please look out for order forms being distributed during PE classes on Monday or use this online order form -  https://vando.imagequix.com/g1000953383   Do You Love to Sing?  Join Zero Period Choir Do you love to sing?  Is your voice your main instrument…Or, maybe, you like to sing but are nervous to do it by yourself?  Hillcrest choir is a great choice for you.  In the choir, we will work on vocal strength, agility, ear training, pitch, and harmony all while singing some fun songs.  Although there will be a little sight reading, you don’t have to know how to read before you join.  This class will be taught by singer-songwriter vocal-instrumental recording and performing artist, Spencer Burrows - founder of The Great Burro Studios and Frobeck Music.  Zero period Choir meets in the HMS Band Room every Friday at 7:30!   Locker Reminders A reminder about the schedule for the lockers. Students may go to their lockers during the times listed below: Students may go to their lockers Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri Wednesdays Before School 825 - 8:29 8:25 - 8:29 Start of Break 10:10 - 10:15 10:06 - 10:11 Start of Lunch 12:05 - 12:10 11:55 - 12:00 End of Lunch 12:45 - 12:47 12: - 12:37 After School 3:15 - 3:25 1:55 - 2:05   Join the Knitting Club The Knitting Club meets on Fridays in Room 7.  Don’t know how to knit?  No problem - we will help you learn!  Make hats, scarves and more with Ms. Garson and Ms. Cole!  If you have any knitting supplies gathering dust in your home and would like to donate them to this brand new club, please email Sam Cole at   scole@grav.k12.ca.us   Interested in Joining the GSA Club? Our Hillcrest GSA club, in support of the LGBTQ+ community, is meeting again this week!    Hillcrest Hawks who are interested in participating should plan on coming to the meeting on Tuesday during lunch!  Location of the meeting will be announced on Tuesday.   Join the Green Team!! The Green Team will meet every Wednesday in room 1 from 12:15 - 12:35.   Afternoon Pick-Up - Important Reminders!! This is an important reminder that students are NOT to be picked up on Bloomfield Road.  Students may not walk up the stairs from Hillcrest to Bloomfield unless they are walking to their own home.   Students are required to have a Walking or Biking from School form on file in order to leave campus at the end of the day via Bloomfield road. When you pull into the parking lot, please use both lanes and then merge when you make the turn by the chain link fence Please pull as far down the curb in front of Hillcrest Hall as possible to stop and pick up your student.  HINT!!  - If possible, arrive 10 minutes after the dismissal time.  We have found that by this time both Bloomfield Road and our parking lot  are much easier for our families to access.   Cell Phone Reminders!! Cell phones are only to be used after school in the Duck Pond to contact parents or guardians.  Cell phones should be off and put away from the moment you arrive on campus.  Any violation of the cell phone policy can lead to disciplinary action.     Facebook Are you curious about what is happening at Hillcrest Middle School? Want to keep up to date on activities and events? Want a glimpse into the classroom and see what our teachers are teaching and what your students are learning? If so then make sure you go to Facebook and follow Hillcrest Middle School - Sebastopol !   GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD   Gregory Appling, President - gappling@grav.k12.ca.us Jeri McNeill, Clerk -   jmcneill@grav.k12.ca.us Alex Kahn, Trustee - akahn@grav.k12.ca.us Patrick Lei, Trustee - plei@grav.k12.ca.us   WEBSITE           ABOUT US           MENUS             SCHEDULES   Elementary School Website Middle School  Website Creative  Arts Program  

Sunday, Sep 11 2022

Monday Messages September 5, 2022 for GUSD Families

GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT Monday Message September 5, 2022     A MESSAGE FROM GUSD ADMINISTRATION   GUSD  Racial Justice Committee Meeting The GUSD Racial Justice Committee will hold their first meeting of the year on Monday, September 12th at 5pm via Zoom.  Topic/agenda:  Our goal will be to consider what our committee structure and community work should look like going forward. If you are interested in participating, please attend the meeting. Zoom Link   Meeting ID: 833 9936 5311 Passcode:  965470   GUSD Site Council Needs You! The GUSD Site Council meets at 3:30pm on the third Wednesday of each month for about one hour, and we are currently in need of more parent participation! The Site Council is an important committee that reviews and provides input and offers/considers suggestions on a variety of topics including: student academic progress, School Safety Plans, the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP), the Facilities Master Plan as well as other topics.  We have a meeting format that allows for in-person or Zoom attendance. Here are a couple of our recent agendas:  8/24/22 Agenda &   5/25/22 Agenda .  Parent voice on this committee is an important component of our planning process.  If you are interested in joining Site Council, please reach out to your site principal, Keri Pugno, Gravenstein @   kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us  or Will Deeths, Hillcrest @  wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us .     Mark Your Calendars Thursday, September 8th - Gravenstein - Picture Day Friday, September 9th, 6:00 to 8:00pm - Hillcrest - Back in the Groove - Decades Dance Monday, September 12, 5:00pm - Racial Justice Committee - First Meeting of the year via Zoom - Click here to join. Tuesday, September 13, 5:00pm - GUSD Board Meeting Thursday, September 15th - Hillcrest - Picture Day Thursday, September 15, 6:00pm - GPA - Board Meeting   Lunch Menu To view the entire September menu click here for  English  or  Spanish .  Fruits &/or Veggies are offered with all meals.  Meals are not offered a la carte  Menu items are subject to change.  All student meals are free of charge.  Vegetarian and vegan option are available upon request - Please send in a letter to the office if there are any dietary restrictions.     Mon 5th Tue 6th Wed 7th Thu 8th Fri 9th Bagel Waffle Muffin & Cheese Stick Breakfast Sandwich NO SCHOOL Taco Tuesday Sandwich Eggroll BBQ Sandwich Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies   Dave Rose Keri Pugno Will Deeths drose@grav.k12.ca.us kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us   GRAVENSTEIN PARENT ASSOCIATION     Reminder:  Don't Forget to Turn in Your Pledge Forms to be Entered into the Raffle This Friday, September 9th, is the last day to get Pledge Forms in to be entered into the Wine Raffle.   There will be 10 winners who will be notified by September 19th. Even if you cannot donate at this time please enter "0" on your form and turn it in.    Thank you for turning in Pledge Forms as it is integral to GPA's budget planning for the school year.   Upcoming Board Meeting: Thursday, September 15, 2022 at 6:00pm Hillcrest Middle School in Room 5   Follow Us On Social Media Stay up to date in the quickest way by following us on Facebook and Instagram .  Tag your photos with #wearegpa to show your school pride!   COUNSELORS' CORNER     September is Suicide Awareness month.  Throughout this month, we will be raising awareness of the stigma around suicide and mental health, by  shifting public perception, spreading hope and sharing vital information to people affected by suicide. Our goal is to ensure that individuals, friends and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help.  If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 immediately.  If you are uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can chat with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at  988lifeline.org . Navigating Therapy Referrals It can be challenging and time-consuming to find mental health supports in Sonoma County.  Here is a starting point to help navigate the process. Guiding Questions Are you (or your child / partner / etc.) insured?  If so, what type of insurance?  Is out-of-pocket an interest?  (Typically $120 - $170 per session; some offer a sliding scale.) Kaiser Kaiser does not cover out-of-network providers. Step-by-step guide for members to access mental health supports at bit.ly/KaiserTherapistGuide Partnership Medi-Cal Medi-Cal does not cover out-of-network providers. Ask member services (800-541-5555) for a list of "in network" providers ACEPTING NEW PATIENTS.  Partnership Health Plan often partners with Beacon; those providers are at beaconhealthoptions.com 2-1-1 or 211sonoma.org lists sliding scale and Medi-Cal eligible services. Other Insurance Ask membere services (# on back of your card) for a list of "in-network" providers ACEPTING NEW PATIENTS.  Ask if your plan covers reimbursement for "out-of-network" mental health providers. At what percent do the reimburse? How do you file a claim for reimbursement? You may need to pay at the time of service and ask your therapist for a "superbil" to submit for reimbursement.  This may require a diagnosis No Insurance or Fee-For-Service Therapists, counseling agencies & sliding scale resources at: 2-1-1 or 211sonoma.org bit.ly/SCOE_MH_Resources PsychologyToday.com (not always current) TeleHealth options: TwoChairs.com , TalkSpace.com , Cerebral.com , etc. Many of these processes are time consuming and feel overwhelming.  While the steps above are the best method we have found, they are often not ideal and can be frustrating to navigate. Please stick with it!  Reach out for help - to your support network, your school counselor, your primary care physician, or any other advocate - if you're not finding what you need. Click here for a list of Sonoma County Mental Health & Crisis Supports - English or Spanish   Hillcrest Counseling Facebook Page Click on the link below to to view all the resources available to you and your family on the Hillcrest Counseling Facebook page. Hillcrest Middle School Counseling Page   WHAT'S NEW at GRAVENSTEIN ELEMENTARY?   Picture Day The Gravenstein Picture Day is this Thursday, September 8.  Student portraits can be ordered online:  Gravenstein Photo Order   or by completing  this form  and having your student turn it in on photo day.   Illness and Absences  If your child is sick or will be absent, please notify the school office at either  gravabsences@grav.k12.ca.us  or (707) 823-5361.  The Gravenstein School Office hours are 8am to 4pm, but messages can be left at any time.    Gravenstein Parent Volunteers Are you interested in volunteering in your child’s classroom or driving on a field trip this year? While each class may have different needs and opportunities, here are the School Requirements that must be met before a parent can volunteer. Application is required - forms are available in the school office or on our website:   Parent Volunteer and Driver Application There are different requirements depending on the type of volunteer work you’ll be doing: Classroom Only Additional COVID Requirements Volunteer Application - both sides; sign on page 2 Proof of COVID-19 Vaccine (or may test before event if not vaccinated) Negative TB test (good for 4 years) Field Trip - Not Driving Additional COVID Requirements Volunteer Application - both sides; sign on page 2 Proof of COVID-19 Vaccine (or may test before event if not vaccinated) Negative TB test (good for 4 years) Fingerprints (contact school office for instructions) Field Trip - Driving Additional COVID Requirements Volunteer Application - both sides; sign on page 2 Driver Form - both sides; signature required on both sides Copy of Auto Insurance Declarations page showing coverage amounts and expiration date Copy of Driver's License Proof of COVID-19 Vaccine (or may test before event if not vaccinated) Negative TB test (good for 4 years) Fingerprints (contact school office for instructions)   Don’t Forget!  Gravenstein Elementary School is Now on Facebook and Twitter!  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GravensteinElementary/ Twitter @GravElementary   WHAT'S NEW at HILLCREST MIDDLE SCHOOL?   Hillcrest Athletic Schedules: Flag Football Schedules: 6th Grade Flag Football 7th/8th Grade Flag Football 7th/8th Girls Basketball: 7th and 8th Girls Basketball Schedule 6th Girls Volleyball: 6th Grade Girls Volleyball Schedule Cross Country: Cross Country Schedule There is still room to sign up First Preseason Practice is Wednesday Sept 7th at 2:00pm on the Football field. Sports physicals must be completed. Meets schedule will not be known until after the league meet on Sept 19th  We need Parent Volunteers at least 1 for practice, please reach out to mhudgens@grav.k12.ca.us Running shoes can be purchased at local stores.  I also can make recommendations based on running history, previous injury etc.  These stores also are very good for correct shoe fitting.   Heart and Soul - Santa Rosa Healdsburg Running Co - Healdsburg Sports Basement - Santa Rosa - Online   1st Dance of the Year Back in the Groove - Decades Dance is Friday, September 9th from 6-8 PM in the gym.  Tickets go on sale Tuesday at lunch.  $5 at school, $8 at the door.   There are no refunds for not attending the dance. Reminder - school rules still apply at the Dance -  The dance is only for current Hillcrest Students.   Cell phones are not to be used or seen during the dance. Students dropped off after 6:20 must be walked to the entrance of the dance by their own parent. Students may only be picked up EARLY from the dance by their own parent and the parent must come to the entrance of the dance to get their student. All students must be picked up no later than 8:25 or they may not be able to attend the next dance. HMS Spirit Store is OPEN!! More sizes, more styles and more colors are available on our HMS Spirit Store than in the HMS Office.  Order online today and your new items will be delivered to campus by the end of September.  Use this  link   to purchase your HAWK gear today!   Picture Day HMS Picture Day is September 15th, 2022!  Please look out for order forms coming home with your students in the next week!   Do You Love to Sing? - Join Zero Period Choir Is your voice your main instrument…Or, maybe, you like to sing but are nervous to do it by yourself?  Hillcrest choir is a great choice for you.  In the choir, we will work on vocal strength, agility, ear training, pitch, and harmony all while singing some fun songs.  Although there will be a little sight reading, you don’t have to know how to read before you join.  This class will be taught by singer-songwriter vocal-instrumental recording and performing artist, Spencer Burrows - founder of The Great Burro Studios and Frobeck Music.  Zero period Choir meets in the HMS Band Room every Friday at 7:30!   Houses & House Games Due to the expected heatwave next week we'll only have one flag football House game for 6th grade - Friday 9/9 - Ballotti vs Burbank   6th Grade will be told their houses in PE this week   Locker Reminders A reminder about the schedule for the lockers. Students may go to their lockers - Students may go to their lockers   Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri   Wednesdays   Before School 8:25 - 8:29   8:25 - 8:29   Start of Break 10:10 - 10:15   10:06 - 10:11   Start of Lunch 12:05 - 12:10   11:55 - 12:00   End of Lunch 12:45 - 12:47   12:35 - 12:37   After School 3:15 - 3:25   1:55 - 2:05   Join the Knitting Club The Knitting Club is on Fridays in Room 7.  You don’t know how to knit?  No problem - we will help you learn!  Make hats, scarves and more with Ms. Garson and Ms. Cole!  If you have any knitting supplies gathering dust in your home and would like to donate them to this brand new club, please email  Scole@grav.k12.ca.us   Join the GSA Club Our Hillcrest GSA club, in support of the LGBTQ+ community, is meeting again this week!    Hillcrest Hawks who are interested in participating should plan on coming to the meeting on Tuesday during lunch!  Location of the meeting will be announced on Tuesday.   Afternoon Pick-up - Important Reminders This is an important reminder that students are NOT to be picked up on Bloomfield Road.  Students may not walk up the stairs from Hillcrest to Bloomfield unless they are walking to their own home.   Students are required to have a Walking or Biking from School form on file in order to leave campus at the end of the day via Bloomfield road. When you pull into the parking lot, please use both lanes and then merge when you make the turn by the chain link fence. Please pull as far down the curb in front of Hillcrest Hall as possible to stop and pick up your student.  If possible, arrive 10 minutes after the dismissal time.  We have found that by this time both Bloomfield Road and our parking lot  are much easier for our families to access.   Cell Phone Reminders Cell phones are only to be used after school in the Duck Pond to contact parents or guardians. Cell phones should be off and put away from the moment you arrive on campus. Any violation of the cell phone policy can lead to disciplinary action.   Facebook Are you curious about what is happening at Hillcrest Middle School? Want to keep up to date on activities and events? Want a glimpse into the classroom and see what our teachers are teaching and what your students are learning? If so then make sure you go to Facebook and follow Hillcrest Middle School - Sebastopol !   GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD   Gregory Appling, President - gappling@grav.k12.ca.us Jeri McNeill, Clerk -   jmcneill@grav.k12.ca.us Alex Kahn, Trustee - akahn@grav.k12.ca.us Patrick Lei, Trustee - plei@grav.k12.ca.us   WEBSITE           ABOUT US           MENUS             SCHEDULES   Elementary School Website Middle School  Website Creative  Arts Program  

Sunday, Sep 04 2022

Monday Messages August 29, 2022 for GUSD Families

GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT Monday Message August 29, 2022       A MESSAGE FROM GUSD ADMINISTRATION   GUSD Racial Justice Committee Meeting The GUSD Racial Justice Committee will hold their first meeting of the year on Monday, September 12th at 5pm via Zoom.  Topic/agenda:  Our goal will be to consider what our committee structure and community work should look like going forward. If you are interested in participating, please attend the meeting. Zoom Link   Meeting ID: 833 9936 5311 Passcode:  965470   GUSD Site Council Needs You! The GUSD Site Council meets at 3:30pm on the third Wednesday of each month for about one hour, and we are currently in need of more parent participation!  The Site Council is an important committee that reviews and provides input and offers/considers suggestions on a variety of topics including: student academic progress, School Safety Plans, the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP), the Facilities Master Plan as well as other topics.  We have a meeting format that allows for in-person or Zoom attendance.  Here are a couple of our recent agendas:  8/24/22 Agenda ,  5/25/22 Agenda .  Parent voice on this committee is an important component of our planning process.  If you are interested in joining Site Council, please reach out to your site principal, Keri Pugno, Gravenstein @   kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us  or Will Deeths, Hillcrest @  wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us .   Mark Your Calendars Tuesday, August 30th, 5:00 to 6:00pm - Gravenstein - Back to School Night for Grades TK - K - 1 Wednesday, August 31st, 5:00 to 6:00pm - Gravenstein - Back to School Night for Grades 2 and 3 Thursday, September 1st, 5:00 to 6:00pm - Gravenstein - Back to School Night for Grades 4 and 5 Monday, September 12, 5:00pm - Racial Justice Committee - First Meeting of the year via Zoom - Click here to join. Thursday, September 15th, 6:00pm - GPA - Board Meeting   Lunch Menu To view the entire August menu click here for  English  or  Spanish .  Fruits &/or Veggies are offered with all meals.  Menu items are subject to change.  All student meals are free of charge.  Vegetarian and vegan option are available upon written order.   Mon 29th Tue 30th Wed 31st Cereal & Cheese Stick Fruit Waffles Fruit Muffin & Cheese Stick Fruit Chicken Quesadilla Taco Tuesday BBQ Chicken Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies   Dave Rose Keri Pugno Will Deeths drose@grav.k12.ca.us kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us   GRAVENSTEIN PARENT ASSOCIATION   Calling GUSD families!  Get ready to come and cheer on your teachers and school staff as the Hillcrest Hawks staff go head-to-head with the Gravenstein Grizzlies staff in an epic softball game matchup!   Everyone who turns in the pledge form by September 9th will be entered into a raffle for 2 bottles of wine.  There will be 10 winners who will be notified by September 19th.  Even if you cannot donate at this time please enter "0" on your form and turn it in.  This is essential for financial planning for GPA.   Upcoming Board Meeting: Thursday, September 15, 2022 at 6:00pm Hillcrest Middle School in the Stem Room   Follow Us On Social Media Stay up to date in the quickest way by following us on Facebook and Instagram .  Tag your photos with #wearegpa to show your school pride!   COUNSELORS' CORNER     Community involvement is beneficial in all areas of life.  We see the impact it has in many facets of life in adulthood; however, this is particularly important in childhood development.  Perhaps, one of the greatest examples of the profound and inspiring ways that it impacts our society, is when we look at the benefits of community involvement in childhood. Children grow emotionally, intellectually, and physically through both their relationships and through their community.  For children, community involvement and engagement produces long-term benefits in their lives.  It gives them a sense of belonging and is crucial to the building of their identity.  Community involvement sends a powerful message to children.  It’s one that says, “You are important.  You are loved.  You  belong.”  It’s a message that holds the strength to empower every child in the world. To experience the benefits of community involvement, we must first look at creating the community.  From there, the relationships are built and the self-esteem and happiness of the child are given a foundation to flourish and succeed.   It is important that all students feel a sense of community at GUSD, whether it is in the classroom, on the playground, through sports and activities, or through supported peer relationships. Here are some suggestions on how your family can participate in the GUSD community: Encourage your child to participate in school clubs, activities, athletics, band, or the school play. Join community sport teams or programs with other students in your child’s class (baseball, soccer, basketball, swim, martial arts, dance, gymnastics) Foster relationships with other families in your school or neighborhood (park meet–ups, beach, farmer’s markets, playdates) Parent participation at school:  Attend parent-teacher conferences, school wide meetings or back to school night. Volunteer, chaperone a field trip or consider joining GPA (Gravenstein Parent Association).   Getting involved in school does a lot more than just keeping your child busy and out of trouble.  The benefits that your child can get from being actively involved in their school are a higher attendance rate, better grade averages, improved social engagement, decreased screen time, development of healthier habits, and improved college opportunities, according to the   National Center for Educational Statistics . If you're worried about stepping on your child's toes, talk with them or their teacher to find a solution that works best for everyone.  Communicating that you want to help and be a part of making their school experience a positive one is a simple place to start.  They may even have some ideas for how you can get involved!   Hillcrest Counseling Facebook Page Click on the link below to to view all the resources available to you and your family on the Hillcrest Counseling Facebook page. Hillcrest Middle School Counseling Page   WHAT'S NEW at GRAVENSTEIN ELEMENTARY?   Illness and Absences While we would like all of our students to be here every day, we know that is not always possible.  If your child is sick or will be absent, please notify the school office at either  gravabsences@grav.k12.ca.us  or (707) 823-5361.  The Gravenstein School Office hours are 8am to 4pm, but messages can be left at any time.  To make pick-up of assigned schoolwork more efficient, we have a wagon located right outside the office where teachers will put requested missed work (homework, independent studies, etc).   Back-to-School Nights Are This Week Back-to-School Nights are an opportunity for the teachers to speak directly to the parents in their classroom about the details of the class.  Parents will also hear more about the enrichment classes, classroom homework, field trips, and volunteer opportunities.   These events are not for students and the play structures will be closed .   Each evening will begin in the Gravenstein Courtyard.  After introductions and some quick announcements, parents will then head to the classroom.  Grades TK-K-1: Tuesday, 8/30/22 5:00 - 6:00 Grades 2 & 3: Wednesday, 8/31/22 5:00 - 6:00 Grades 4 & 5: Thursday, 9/1/22 5:00 - 6:00   Don’t Forget!  Gravenstein Elementary School is Now on Facebook and Twitter!  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GravensteinElementary/ Twitter @GravElementary   WHAT'S NEW at HILLCREST MIDDLE SCHOOL?   8th Grade Yosemite Trip Hello 8th Grade Families! We are looking forward to our NatureBridge Yosemite trip coming up soon!  Please complete your student's Participant Registration Form BEFORE Saturday, September 3, 2022 .   They cannot attend their NatureBridge Yosemite trip without completion of the below steps: Participant Registration Form: Complete the   NatureBridge Participant Registration Form (in English) or Formulario de registro para los participantes de NatureBridge (en Espa ñ ol) Verify Signature: Once you complete the form, you will receive an email from  registration@naturebridge.org  asking you to verify your signature. Click the link in that email to complete the registration process. **Please complete these two steps ASAP!   It should take you no more than 5 minutes.  If you are unclear on the steps, see the below video  to help guide you. Here are links to the NatureBridge Policies for your information: Yosemite NatureBridge Health and Safety Plan COVID-19 Illness and Incident Response Dietary Restrictions  ( Spanish ) Thank you, 8th Grade Team   Grade Level Coin Battle The Grade Level Coin Battle has begun!  Deposit coins (pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, silver dollars) to your grade level bottle and try to win.  Deposit cash money (i.e. dollar bills) to other grade level bottles to make them lose.  Coin deposits are positive points for your grade level.  Cash deposits are subtracted from other grade levels.  The winning grade level will win bragging rights and the privilege of shaving and dying Mr. Deeths' hair.  The Grade Level Coin Battle will last until Friday, September 2.  Grade Level bottles will be out during lunch in the duckpond area.  Let the BATTLE begin!   Athletics Hillcrest Athletics start next week! Remember to have your student sign up for the student council google classroom page for sports sign ups throughout the year! If your student does not have the Student Council Classroom Code, please have them join with the following code: ohpytyi Sports Schedules: Reminder, that no sports have game schedules as of yet, these calendars will be updated as game schedules are released.  Due to interest the Girls 7th Grade and 8th Grade basketball team will be a combined team this year. 6th Grade Volleyball Practice and Game Schedule 7th/8th Grade Girls Basketball Practice and Game Schedule Cross Country Practice and Game Schedule 6th Grade Flag Football Practice and Game Schedule 7th/8th Grade Flag Football Practice and Game Schedule Any questions?  Please email Matt McDowell at mmcdowell@grav.k12.ca.us   Locker Reminders A reminder about the schedule for the lockers.  Students may go to their lockers: Students may go to their lockers   Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri   Wednesdays   Before School 8:25 - 8:29   8:25 - 8:29   Start of Break 10:10 - 10:15   10:06 - 10:11   Start of Lunch 12:05 - 12:10   11:55 - 12:00   End of Lunch 12:45 - 12:47   12:35 - 12:37   After School 3:15 - 3:25   1:55 - 2:05     Knitting Club The Knitting Club is on Fridays in Room 7.  You don’t know how to knit?  No problem - we will help you learn!  Make hats, scarves and more with Ms. Garson and Ms. Cole!  If you have any knitting supplies gathering dust in your home and would like to donate them to this brand new club, please email Sam Cole at  scole@grav.k12.ca.us   GSA Our Hillcrest GSA club, in support of the LGBTQ+ community, is meeting again this week!    Hillcrest Hawks who are interested in participating should plan on coming to the meeting on Tuesday during lunch!  Location of the meeting will be announced on Tuesday.   House Games House Activities are starting back up and our first competition will be playing games of Flag Football! 8th Graders from Burbank and Ballotti will be playing on Tuesday at Lunch.  7th Graders from Libby and O'Farrell will be playing Wednesday at lunch.  Finally 6th Graders from Burbank and Ballotti will be playing Friday at lunch. Sign up sheets will be out at recess the day of the game and you must sign up then.  You cannon sign up at lunch as it will be too late !! Games will start at 12:20 giving everyone time to eat their lunch. Students who display Unsportsmanlike Behavior  (ex. taunting, arguing with officials, etc.) will be asked to Leave the Game . Remember:   House games are to be fun, so come on out and earn points for your house!!   Afternoon Pick-Up Important Reminders This is an important reminder that students are NOT to be picked up on Bloomfield Road.  Students may not walk up the stairs from Hillcrest to Bloomfield unless they are walking to their own home.   Students are required to have a Walking or Biking from School form on file in order to leave campus at the end of the day via Bloomfield road. When you pull into the parking lot, please use both lanes and then merge when you make the turn by the chain link fence Please pull as far down the curb in front of Hillcrest Hall as possible to stop and pick up your student.  If possible, arrive 10 minutes after the dismissal time.  We have found that by this time both Bloomfield Road and our parking lot are much easier for our families to access.   Cell Phones Cell phones are only to be used after school in the Duck Pond to contact parents or guardians.  Cell phones should be off and put away from the moment you arrive on campus.  Any violation of the cell phone policy can lead to disciplinary action.    Facebook Are you curious about what is happening at Hillcrest Middle School? Want to keep up to date on activities and events? Want a glimpse into the classroom and see what our teachers are teaching and what your students are learning? If so then make sure you go to Facebook and follow Hillcrest Middle School - Sebastopol !   GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD   Gregory Appling, President - gappling@grav.k12.ca.us Jeri McNeill, Clerk -   jmcneill@grav.k12.ca.us Alex Kahn, Trustee - akahn@grav.k12.ca.us Patrick Lei, Trustee - plei@grav.k12.ca.us   WEBSITE           ABOUT US           MENUS             SCHEDULES   Elementary School Website Middle School  Website Creative  Arts Program  

Monday, Aug 29 2022

Monday Messages August 22, 2022 for GUSD Families

GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT Monday Message August 22, 2022     A MESSAGE FROM GUSD ADMINISTRATION   We've Moved! The District Office has relocated to the Hillcrest campus!  The move began last Friday and, while it may take some time for everything to find its new home, the Business Office is up and running.  The District phone number will remain the same at (707) 823-7008, but the mailing address will now be 725 Bloomfield Road .        Every Wednesday is an Early Release Day School Regular Day Early Release Day (Every Wednesday) Gravenstein Elementary: TK and K Grades 1 and 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hillcrest Middle School: Grades 6 - 8 8:45 - 2:20 8:30 - 3:20 8:15 0 3:05 8:30 - 3:15 8:45 - 1:00 8:30 - 1:45 8:15 - 1:30 8:30 - 1:55   Mark Your Calendars Sunday, August 21st to Sunday, September 4th - Gravenstein Spirit Store is Open Monday, August 22nd to Friday, September 2nd - Hillcrest - Grade Level Coin Battle Tuesday, August 23rd, 5:00 to 6:15pm - Hillcrest  -  Back to School Night Tuesday, August 23rd, 6:20pm - Hillcrest - 8th Grade Parent Meeting - Yosemite Trip Friday, August 26th, 6:00pm - GPA - Informational Meeting at Ragel Park Tuesday, August 30th, 5:00 to 6:00pm - Gravenstein - Back to School Night for Grades TK - K - 1 Wednesday, August 31st, 5:00 to 6:00pm - Gravenstein - Back to School Night for Grades 2 and 3 Thursday, September 1st, 5:00 to 6:00pm - Gravenstein - Back to School Night for Grades 4 and 5 Thursday, September 15th, 6:00pm - GPA - Board Meeting   Lunch Menu To view the entire August menu click here for  English  or  Spanish .  Fruits &/or Veggies are offered with all meals.  Menu items are subject to change.  All student meals are free of charge.  Vegetarian and vegan option are available upon written order.   Mon 22nd Tue 23rd Wed 24th Thu 25th Fri 26th Croissant & Jam Fruit Boiled Egg & Cracker Fruit Cereal & Cheese Stick Fruit French Toast Fruit Egg & Potatoes Fruit Bean & Cheese Burrito Sandwich Chicken Caesar Hotdog Fajita Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies   Dave Rose Keri Pugno Will Deeths drose@grav.k12.ca.us kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us   GRAVENSTEIN PARENT ASSOCIATION     Get Involved!! GPA is looking for 2 to 3 Grade Level Parents (GLP) per grade. Grade Level Parents provide an invaluable service to build and strengthen our school community.  GLPs are the main source of communication between GPA and the parents in your grade level.  This is a great way to get involved and help to foster community in our school!  Find more  information  and our sign up link here:    https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4EABA823A4F8C07-grade   Please join us for an informational meeting at Ragle Park in Sebastopol on August 26th at 6 PM at the picnic tables near the play structure.  Kids are welcome to this informal meeting.   Upcoming Board Meeting: Thursday, September 15, 2022 at 6:00pm Hillcrest Middle School in the Stem Room   Follow Us On Social Media Stay up to date in the quickest way by following us on Facebook and Instagram .  Tag your photos with #wearegpa to show your school pride!   COUNSELORS' CORNER     I am not sure about all of you, but the back to school morning routine was a little rough this last week in my home.  Studies show that it takes at least a couple of weeks to get into the rhythm of a routine.  Creating a successful morning routine not only helps set the precedent for an optimal school day, but it also alleviates stress and allows you to better cope with change. Here are a few tips to help with your morning routine: Wake Up Early .  The first couple weeks of back to school, start your morning 15 to 20 minutes earlier than you think you need to.  As the school year goes on, you may be able to adjust your wake-up times, but having a little extra time is a great cushion for those unexpected hiccups everyone experiences.   Wake-up time is directly related to  bedtime , especially with younger kids.  You may want to start the school year with an early bedtime and adjust later if it seems warranted. Some parents find that it's helpful for them to get up earlier than their kids, especially if they are trying to get out the door to work.  Figure out how much interruption-free time you need before your kids get up.  For instance, do you need your morning coffee before you see their bright, cheery faces? Get It Done the Night Before .  For a smooth school morning, it helps to plan ahead.  Encourage your kids to do what they can the night before.  Make sure lunches are packed, clothes are laid out, breakfast is planned, devices are charging, and  homework  and other necessities are packed for school before bed.  I personally like to put everything out by the door to grab and go, including shoes and jackets (they always seem to go missing when you need them!).  I know of other families that use baskets or home lockers to help organize each of their children’s belongings for the mornings. Plan some easy  breakfast meals  that you can have on hand for your family .  Aside from cereal and milk, hard boiled eggs, yogurt, fruit, oatmeal, whole-grain bread or waffles, and smoothies make great breakfast options and are easy to grab in a rush.  You can even make use of the free homemade breakfast offered by GUSD (all you have to do is sign up). The key is that you aren't allowing breakfast to throw a wrench into getting the day started. Set the expectations . Make sure your kids know what the expectation is for school mornings.  For example, no tv until they’ve made the bed, brushed their teeth, fed the fish, opened their curtains, turned off their sound machine, put their shoes on, etc!  Set those expectations upfront so they can get into a rhythm each day.  Another great idea is to use chore charts, for younger children you can use a picture checklist.  For older children who have a more difficult time waking up, set an alarm across the room, so they have to get up to turn it off! Be intentional . Set your day with the right intentions.  Positivity and gratitude change everything!  I like to play upbeat music in the morning to help set the mood. The morning routine is a process of habit formation which produces better   self-regulation skills and is a building block of good mental health.  The more cohesive your family's morning routine is, the easier it will be for your children to transition from home to school.  When the transition is smooth, cortisol levels are at  normal range, children are more relaxed and able to process learning information more efficiently.   Hillcrest Counseling Facebook Page Click on the link below to to view all the resources available to you and your family on the Hillcrest Counseling Facebook page. Hillcrest Middle School Counseling Page   WHAT'S NEW at GRAVENSTEIN ELEMENTARY?   We had an amazing start to this school year and I want to thank each of you (including students) for your part in helping Gravenstein kick-off the first week of school.  The positive energy and excitement for a new school year could be felt throughout the campus.   At no time was that more noticeable than during our first schoolwide assembly.  We held a short outdoor assembly to kick-off the year and welcome Grizz, our grizzly bear mascot.  The students clapped and cheered with such excitement, that I am sure we could be heard by the neighbors down Twig Avenue! -  Keri Pugno, Principal   The Spirit Wear Store is now Open! Do you want to show your Gravenstein Spirit?  Head on over to the Gravenstein Spirit Wear Store today to purchase t-shirts, sweatshirts and/or a jacket.  The Spirit Wear store will be open from Sunday, August 21st to Sunday, September 4th. Here is the link to the Spirit Wear Store:   Spirit Wear   Back-to-School Night(s) These dates are quickly approaching and we hope to have as many parents attend as possible.  Back-to-School Nights are an opportunity for the teachers to speak directly to the parents in their classroom about the structure and schedule of the class.  Parents will also hear more about the enrichment classes, classroom homework, field trips, and volunteer opportunities.  These events are not for students and the play structures will be closed.   Grades TK-K-1: Tuesday, 8/30/22, from 5:00-6:00 Grades 2 & 3: Wednesday, 8/31/22, from 5:00-6:00 Grades 4 & 5: Thursday, 9/1/22, from 5:00-6:00   Drop-off and Pick-up Reminders! With nearly 500 students attending Gravenstein, the drop-off and pick-up procedure can seem overwhelming at first.  When we all understand the schedule and work together, it runs smoothly and efficiently.  Please take a few minutes to learn what you can do to help keep this a safe process.   Always listen to the directions of our Staff.  They are there to help direct traffic, communicate with other school staff, and keep everyone safe! Unless registered for Beyond-the-Bell daycare, children can not arrive prior to 8:00AM. Students cannot leave their vehicle until a staff member is present for drop-off supervision. All grades can be dropped off at the upper drive-thru circle between 8:00-8:45 Grade level reminders for drop-off: TK (8:30-8:45) use the top drive-thru circle as these students will walk directly to the TK Yard/Rooms K (8:30-8:45) use the top drive-thru circle and students will walk down toward the courtyard Grades 1 and 2 (8:15-8:30) may be dropped off in either location and students will wait in the courtyard until a staff member leads them to line up for their teacher. Grades 3, 4, and 5 (8:00-8:15) may be dropped off in either location and students will make their way to their designated line up space.  If your child is late to school and a staff member is no longer stationed in the drive-thru circle, please park and walk your child to the office. Grade-level reminders for pick-up: Be aware that arriving early may make the congestion worse.  If you arrive in the pick-up window for a different grade, you will need to pull out of the drive-thru circle and wait for the appropriate time. Communicate the pick-up plan with your child’s teacher (bus, BtB, car pick-up, etc) TK and K (2:20-2:30) in the upper drive-thru circle Grades 3 (3:05-3:20) in the upper drive-thru circle  Grades 4 and 5 (3:05-3:20)- in the lower lot   (*If the student is waiting for a grade 1/2 sibling that dismisses at 3:20, they will be picked up in the upper drive-thru circle as the lower lot will be closing and transitioning to daycare space.)   Don’t Forget!  Gravenstein Elementary School is Now on Facebook and Twitter!  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GravensteinElementary/ Twitter @GravElementary   WHAT'S NEW at HILLCREST MIDDLE SCHOOL?   Back-to-School Night! The Hillcrest teaching staff will be hosting Back-to-School Night on Tuesday, August 23rd from 5:00 - 6:15pm. This event allows our staff to share important information that parents need to know for the school year.  Parents as always feel free to contact your student’s teachers via phone or email with any questions that you may have regarding your students.  This evening is for parents only !   8th Grade Yosemite Trip Returns! The annual 8th Grade trip to Yosemite returns!  There will be a meeting for all 8th grade parents immediately following Back-to-School Night - Tuesday, August 23rd at 6:20pm in Hillcrest Hall.   2022-23 Class Schedules Elective changes will be considered  between August 24th & 26th.  Unless the change pertains to Spanish and / or Band, there is no guarantee that a change can be made.  After August 26th, there will be no more Elective changes made. We are unable to make changes to non-elective classes. A form for Elective Change requests is available in the Hillcrest Main Office.  A parent signature is required for all Elective Change requests.   Trimester 1 Enrichment Sign-Ups For the 2022-2023 school year, students at Hillcrest Middle School will have an opportunity to take an Enrichment class every Wednesday.   During their ELA classes on Monday August 22, 2022, HMS students will be signing up for their Trimester 1 Wednesday Enrichment classes! Trimester 1 Wednesday Enrichments will begin on August 24th.   Students will have an opportunity to select a new Enrichment every Trimester.  We will do our best to give students their top choices but there are no guarantees of placement in any Enrichment.  Be sure that you look over the course descriptions to help you make your choice. A huge THANK YOU to the GPA for their fundraising efforts and support of Wednesday Enrichments at Hillcrest!  Enrichment Course Descriptions  -  English   or   Spanish   Grade Level Coin Battle Starting on Monday, August 22, there will be a Grade Level Coin Battle.  Deposit coins (pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, silver dollars) to your grade level bottle and try to win.  Deposit cash money (i.e. Dollar Bills) to other grade level bottles to make them lose.  Coin deposits are positive points for your grade level.  Cash deposits are subtracted from other grade levels.  The winning grade level will win bragging rights and the privilege of shaving and dying Mr. Deeths' hair.  The Grade Level Coin Battle will run for 2 weeks from Monday, August 22, to Friday, September 2.  Grade Level bottles will be out during lunch in the duckpond area.  Let the BATTLE begin!   Locker Assignments and Use On Friday, 7th and 8th Grade students received their lockers!  A reminder about the schedule for the lockers.  Students may go to their lockers - Students may go to their lockers Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri Wednesdays Before School 8:25 - 8:29 Start of Break 10:10 - 10:15 10:06 - 10:11 Start of Lunch 12:05 - 12:10 11:55 - 12:00 End of Lunch 12:45 - 12:47 12:35 - 12:37 After School 3:15 - 3:25 1:55 - 2:05   Fall Sports According to the new HMS Athletic Director, Mr. McDowell, Fall sports are back on the Hillcrest campus.  At this time, students can look out for information about Boys Flag Football and Cross Country.  Physicals are needed prior to participation. Watch the Monday Messages for more information.   Drop-off and Pick-up Reminders! In the mornings: Unless your student is part of a zero period class or in the Beyond the Bell program, they are not to be dropped off BEFORE 8:00 am. In the afternoons This is an important reminder that students are NOT to be picked up on Bloomfield Road. Students may NOT walk up the stairs from Hillcrest to Bloomfield unless they are walking to their own home. We are sorry if this causes any inconvenience, we are only looking out for the safety of our students.   Cell Phone Policy Reminders! Cell phones are only to be used after school in the Duck Pond to contact parents or guardians.  Cell phones should be off and put away from the moment you arrive on campus.  Any violation of the cell phone policy can lead to disciplinary action.   Facebook Are you curious about what is happening at Hillcrest Middle School? Want to keep up to date on activities and events? Want a glimpse into the classroom and see what our teachers are teaching and what your students are learning? If so then make sure you go to Facebook and follow Hillcrest Middle School - Sebastopol !   GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD   Gregory Appling, President - gappling@grav.k12.ca.us Jeri McNeill, Clerk -   jmcneill@grav.k12.ca.us Alex Kahn, Trustee - akahn@grav.k12.ca.us Patrick Lei, Trustee - plei@grav.k12.ca.us   WEBSITE           ABOUT US           MENUS             SCHEDULES   Elementary School Website Middle School  Website Creative  Arts Program  

Sunday, Aug 21 2022

Monday Messages August 15, 2022 for GUSD Families

GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT Monday Message August 15, 2022     A MESSAGE FROM GUSD ADMINISTRATION   Bell Schedule Early Release Day is every Wednesday The first day of school is Wednesday, the weekly Early Release Day.  Please make note of the earlier dismissal times at each campus. School Regular Day Early Release Day (Every Wednesday- 1st Day) Gravenstein Elementary: TK and K Grades 1 and 2 Grades 3 - 5 Hillcrest Middle School: Grades 6 - 8 8:45 - 2:20 8:30 - 3:20 8:15 - 3:05 8:30 - 3:15 8:45 - 1:00 8:30 - 1:45 8:15 - 1:30 8:30 - 1:55   Schedules and Class Assignments The Schoolwise Parent Portal is open!  You are able to sign in, complete your registration paperwork and see the student class assignments (elementary) and class schedules (middle school) for the 2022-2023 school year.   Here is the link to the Schoolwise Parent Portal -   https://grav.schoolwise.com/ Mark Your Calendars Monday, August 15, 2:00 to 3:15pm - Hillcrest -  Meet-the-Teacher Monday, August 15 - Gravenstein  - Grades TK & K (See below for times) Tuesday, August 16 - Gravenstein  - Grades 1 - 5 (See below for times) Wednesday, August 17 - First Day of School Thursday, August 18, 6pm - GPA Board Meeting in the HMS Stream Lab Tuesday, August 23rd, 5:00 to 6:15pm - Hillcrest  -  Back to School Night   Lunch Menu To view the entire August menu click here for English or Spanish .  Fruits &/or Veggies are offered with all meals.  Menu items are subject to change and we cannot guarantee both options will be available.  All student meals are free of charge.  Vegetarian and vegan option are available upon written order. Mon 15th Tue 16th Wed 17th 1st Day of School Thu 18th Fri 19th NO SCHOOL NO SCHOOL Cereal & Cheese Stick Fruit Bagel & Cream Cheese Fruit Breakfast Burrito Fruit Sandwich Corn Dog Pozole & Chips Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies Fruit & Veggies   Dave Rose Keri Pugno Will Deeths drose@grav.k12.ca.us kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us   GRAVENSTEIN PARENT ASSOCIATION   Hello GUSD Families! On behalf of the Gravenstein Parent Association, I am so excited to welcome all our new and returning families to the 2022-23 school year!  We are energized to be back on campus and have been working hard with Mrs. Pugno, Mr. Deeths, and Mr. Rose to ensure the Enrich! Program continues to provide our students with the top notch education program for which GUSD is known. Pledge forms have already been arriving to our inbox and as usual I am inspired by the overwhelming generosity of time and money contributed by GUSD families.  With your help, we look forward to supporting programs like PE, Makers Space, Art, Spanish, Drama, Music, and more! We are looking forward to community building events like family Gravenstein vs. Hillcrest Teachers softball game (Sept 10th mark your calendars!), family skate nights and December Pancake Breakfast, celebrating student achievements and staff excellence... and so much more! To help make this a year our students never forget, please donate to support your child’s enrichments.  GPA pledge forms are part of the student enrollment packet.  Pledge money and school fundraisers directly impact the number of programs that return and the new ones we can launch!  For more information on how to give, please visit wearegpa.com Finally, I hope you consider getting involved!  The more parents and loved ones who contribute their time and talents, the stronger and more connected our school community grows.  Whether it's a one-time commitment or a signature event, we have the perfect job for you! Please join us for a GPA meeting, Thursday, August 18 at 6:00 PM at Hillcrest Middle School Stream Lab. If you have any questions, please reach out gravensteinparentassociation@gmail.com Sincerely, Amber Ray Hernandez President, GPA   Upcoming Board Meeting: Thursday, August 18, 2022 at 6:00pm Hillcrest Middle School in the Stream Lab   Follow Us On Social Media Stay up to date in the quickest way by following us on Facebook and Instagram .  Tag your photos with #wearegpa to show your school pride!   COUNSELORS' CORNER     Welcome back GUSD families! I hope you all had an enjoyable summer.  I would like to take this opportunity to introduce a few new names to the GUSD counseling team.  This year we have added two new school counseling interns at Hillcrest Middle School.  Ms. Cole, PPS will be supervising Jessica La Blue and Emily Quackenbush; both interns are currently in their graduate degree programs at USC, studying to become academic Professional School Counselors! I would also like to introduce Andrea Duffy as our new mental health intern.  Andrea is currently enrolled at UCSF in the Masters of Clinical Psychology Program and will be supervised by Rosie Steen-Larsen, LMFT. Over the summer the government launched a new crisis number for mental health.  Every person in every community nationwide can dial “988” to reach trained crisis counselors who can help in mental health, substance use, or suicide crisis. 988 is the new three-digit dialing code connecting people to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (now the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) where compassionate, accessible care and support is available for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress — whether that is thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress. People can also dial 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support. The goal of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is to provide immediate crisis intervention and support.  When someone calls 988, a trained crisis counselor will answer the phone, listen to the caller, understand how their problem is affecting them, provide support and share resources, as needed.  Crisis counselors are trained to help in a variety of crisis situations, and no caller is required to disclose any personal information. Learn how 988 can help you in a crisis and what it might mean for your community with these FAQs .   Hillcrest Counseling Facebook Page Click on the link below to to view all the resources available to you and your family on the Hillcrest Counseling Facebook page. Hillcrest Middle School Counseling Page   WHAT'S NEW at GRAVENSTEIN ELEMENTARY?   As the Principal of Gravenstein Elementary School, it is my pleasure to welcome new and returning families to what I know will be an amazing year at Gravenstein.  I was thrilled to meet so many of our TK and K students at the Kick-Off events and I can’t wait to see all of our other students and families at our Meet-the-Teacher events.  I know I speak for all Gravenstein Staff when I say that we are all eager to share our energy and enthusiasm for learning.   - Keri Pugno , Principal   Grades TK - 5 Meet-the-Teacher To help students with the transition to the new school year, we will be hosting grade level Meet-the-Teacher events.  These short events will be a valuable way for students to reconnect and understand what to expect in this upcoming year.  Parents and students will meet in the courtyard and students will follow their teacher to the classroom.  Parents will remain in the courtyard for announcements and Gravenstein Staff will be available to assist with questions.  Students will also be given their Student Name Placard that will be used during daily pick-up Grade TK Monday, August 15 2:00 - 2:30 Grade K Monday, August 15 2:45 - 3:15 Grade 1 Tuesday, August 16 9:00 - 9:30 Grade 2 Tuesday, August 16 9:45 - 10:15 Grade 3 Tuesday, August 16 10:30 - 11:00 Grade 4 Tuesday, August 16 11:15 - 11:45 Grade 5 Tuesday, August 16 12:00 - 12:30   Drop-Off and Pick-Up Drop-off begins 15 minutes prior to your child’s instructional day.  The first group of students can not be dropped off before 8:00 AM.  If you need to drop off your child(ren) prior to 8:00, please enroll in Beyond-the-Bell.  Please communicate with both your child and your child’s teacher as to how your child will be picked up at the end of the day.  Students will also be given their Student Name Placard at Meet-the-Teacher.   Beyond-the-Bell Thank you to all the families that have already turned in the 2022-2023 Beyond-the-Bell Contract and the $15.00 registration fee.  You should have received a confirmation email letting you know that a space has been reserved for your child.  Contracts and registration fees must be turned in by the end of the day on Tuesday, 8/16/22, in order to guarantee a space in Beyond-the-Bell.  If you have not yet received a confirmation email but believe you submitted the form, please contact Ms. Eva Perez-Atwell at eperez-atwell@grav.k12.ca.us Please remember that Gravenstein Beyond-the-Bell drop-off in the AM is in the Lower Lot near the yellow gate (the door to room 15 will be open for Ms. Cat to check in students) from 7:00-7:55.  When we begin our regular student drop-off, please tell the Staff Member if your child is going to Beyond-the-Bell and we will make sure they safely get to the correct room.  In the afternoon, pick-up will also be in the Lower Lot at the yellow gate.   Don’t Forget!  Gravenstein Elementary School is Now on Facebook and Twitter!  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GravensteinElementary/ Twitter @GravElementary   WHAT'S NEW at HILLCREST MIDDLE SCHOOL?   22-23 Class Schedules The Schoolwise Parent Portal is open!  You are able to sign in, complete your registration paperwork and see your students' class schedule for the 2022-2023 school year. Here is the link to the  Schoolwise Parent Portal - https://grav.schoolwise.com/ Elective changes will be considered  between August 24th & 26th.  Unless the change pertains to Spanish and / or Band, there is no guarantee that a change can be made.  After August 26th, there will be no more Elective changes made. We are unable to make changes to non-elective classes. A form for Elective Change requests is available in the Hillcrest Main Office.  A parent signature is required for all Elective Change requests.   Meet the Teacher On Monday August 15th, Hillcrest will host a Meet the Teacher event for the 2022 - 2023 school year.  Hawk families can come to the campus between the hours of 2:00 - 3:15 to visit the campus, see their classrooms and meet their teachers for the coming school year.  Teachers will be in their classrooms to meet students and parents and students will be able to tour the classrooms.  ***In order to avoid standing in lines, please bring a copy of your students schedule with you to the Meet the Teacher event***   Back to School Night The Hillcrest teaching staff will be hosting Back to School Night on Tuesday August 23rd from 5:00 - 6:15.  This event allows our staff to share important information that parents need to know for the school year.  Parents as always feel free to contact your student’s teachers via phone or email with any questions that you may have regarding your students.   Athletics According to the new HMS Athletic Director, Mr. McDowell, Fall sports are back on the Hillcrest campus.  At this time, students can look out for information about Boys Flag Football and Cross Country.  Physicals are needed prior to participation.  Watch the Monday Messages for more information.   Drop Off & Pick Up In the mornings - Unless your student is part of a zero period class or in the Beyond the Bell program, they are not to be dropped off BEFORE 8:00 am. In the afternoons  - This is an important reminder that students are NOT to be picked up on Bloomfield Road . Students may NOT walk up the stairs from Hillcrest to Bloomfield unless they are walking to their own home. We are sorry if this causes any inconvenience, we are only looking out for the safety of our students.   Cell Phone Policy Cell phones are only to be used after school in the Duck Pond to contact parents or guardians.  Cell phones should be off and put away from the moment you arrive on campus.  Any violation of the cell phone policy can lead to disciplinary action.   Facebook Are you curious about what is happening at Hillcrest Middle School? Want to keep up to date on activities and events? Want a glimpse into the classroom and see what our teachers are teaching and what your students are learning? If so then make sure you go to Facebook and follow Hillcrest Middle School - Sebastopol !   GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD   Gregory Appling, President - gappling@grav.k12.ca.us Jeri McNeill, Clerk -   jmcneill@grav.k12.ca.us Alex Kahn, Trustee - akahn@grav.k12.ca.us Patrick Lei, Trustee - plei@grav.k12.ca.us   WEBSITE           ABOUT US           MENUS             SCHEDULES   Elementary School Website Middle School  Website Creative  Arts Program  

Monday, Aug 15 2022

Monday Message June 6, 2022 for GUSD Families

GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT Monday Message June 6, 2022     A MESSAGE FROM GUSD ADMINISTRATION   Mark Your Calendars Tuesday, June 7, 5-9pm - GUSD Board Meeting - Zoom Link Monday, June 13th - JumpStart Session 1 Begins Friday, July 1st - JumpStart Session 1 Ends Monday, July 18th - JumpStart Session 2 Begins Friday, August 5th - JumpStart Session 2 Ends Monday, August 8th and Tuesday, August 9th, 9am to Noon - Kindergarten Kick-off Wednesday, August 10th, 9am to Noon - TK Kick-off Friday August 12th - Class lists posted in display cases at Gravenstein Wednesday, August 17th - First Day of School   Moving?? We don’t want to see you go, but if your family is moving and will not be at Gravenstein or Hillcrest in the 2022-2023 school year, please inform the school’s front office.     Dave Rose Keri Pugno Will Deeths drose@grav.k12.ca.us kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us   GRAVENSTEIN PARENT ASSOCIATION   Thank you!! As the school year ends we would like to take a moment to reflect on a great year and thank the Gravenstein community for all the support received throughout the year! Our Enrich For All Program is thriving thanks to YOUR continued support through monthly/yearly pledges and participation in GPA fundraisers like: Jog-A-Thon, Read-A-Thon, Hillcrest Color Run and Skate Nights. A great big THANK YOU to all GUSD staff for a wonderful year of learning and enrichment for our children.  Also, a big thanks to the Custodial Staff.  Their help during all events and meetings on school property is immensely appreciated all year long! To our GPA Board and Parent Volunteers for the time and dedication they have brought to this district.  Without your volunteer efforts, while also trying to balance family and careers, none of the success of the GPA would be possible. Finally, Congratulations and Best Wishes to our 8th grade families leaving GUSD  and Welcome to all incoming new families.  We look forward to another great year next year.   Upcoming Board Meeting: Thursday, June 16, 2022 at 6:00pm Hillcrest Middle School in the Stem Room   Follow Us On Social Media Stay up to date in the quickest way by following us on Facebook and Instagram .  Tag your photos with #wearegpa to show your school pride!   COUNSELORS' CORNER     What a year this has been!  I would like to take this opportunity to thank the GUSD staff and administration for continuously guiding and supporting our community, while navigating in-person instruction during Covid-19.  This year has not been easy for many.  We as a community have had to become flexible and adaptable to the many changes.  The wonderful thing is, we were all able to come together to inspire our children with confidence and strength. Strong family engagement has also been a critical part of student success.  Thank you GUSD parents for the opportunities to connect (emails, phone calls, reading Monday Messages), along with attending school events as much as possible.   Most importantly our students have enjoyed another fabulous year.  They have excelled in so many ways it is impossible to list them all.  I have attended many events and have listened in awe as their achievements have been described.  These achievements have been in their academic studies, sport, theater, music, the arts to name just a few and we are proud of them! Lastly, I would like to remind all of you if you are in need of mental health services over the summer, you can find a list of local resources on the GUSD counseling webpage.   I wish you all a happy, healthy, and safe summer vacation,   Rosie   Below is a fun activity to help your student reflect on their experience from the past school year and find some closure.  Reflective self-awareness helps students build resilience in the classroom, at home, and among peers. Practice Roses and Thorns One effective method of reflective practice is through Roses and Thorns.  While some may do this activity weekly or even daily, at the end of the school year consider doing one big rose and Thorns reflecting on the entire school year. ROSES I went out and kicked  the ball around in the field! THORNS My playdate with my best friend was canceled. Roses are the positive experiences and Thorns are the negative or challenging experiences faced.  By having students reflect on their Roses you’re asking them to practice gratitude.  Research has shown the benefits of coping skills like daily gratitude practice , including better physical health.  By having children reflect on their Thorns from the past year, you’re giving them space to voice what’s bothering them. Ready for a bit more 'Roses and Thorns'?  Try adding “buds”—the things that you’re looking forward to for next school year.  One benefit to that addition is that it ends each person’s reflection on a positive note.   Hillcrest Counseling Facebook Page Click on the link below to to view all the resources available to you and your family on the Hillcrest Counseling Facebook page. Hillcrest Middle School Counseling Page   WHAT'S NEW at GRAVENSTEIN ELEMENTARY?   5th Grade Promotion This year’s promotion ceremony for our grade 5 students was held on Friday in the courtyard.  Students were recognized for Integrity Awards, Academic Excellence, Spelling Bee winners, and participation in Student Council and the Lego Robotics Competition.  This year, we also had 6 student speakers and a story read by Mrs. Gorman.  Congratulations to all of our 5th graders!   Graduating 8th Grade Visited Gravenstein A new tradition begins!  Last week, all of our graduating 8th grade students came to Gravenstein to do one last walk through their elementary campus.  Gravenstein Staff and Students lined the hallways and stopped their end-of-the-year activities to cheer on the procession.   Reading Resources There is no overstating the importance of reading over the summer.  Reading and comprehension skills are the foundation of success in every subject and reading skills learned throughout the school year can fade without regular summer reading.  Making sure your child goes back to school at the same reading level he or she ended the school year requires a bit of extra support from parents over the summer.  For those who may not be able to make it to the library, Kasey Hillier, our amazing Reading Specialist this year, put together a valuable compilation of reading resources. GUSD Summer Reading Resources 2022   Summer Study Packets Each year, teachers create a packet of review work to send home to the next year’s students.  The teachers selected important skills for summer practice that will help each child more confidently enter the next grade.  We encourage each child to complete their summer packet.  When it is turned in on the first day of school, each child will receive a small prize and a raffle ticket to be entered for larger prizes.  A hard copy of this Summer Packet went home with each Gravenstein student this past week.  Digital copies will be up on the website by the end of the week.   School Supply List for Next Year Each grade level team has created a list of school supplies that each child will use throughout the year.  If you are able to purchase school supplies for your child, the following are recommendations made by your child’s teacher.   2022-2023 Gravenstein Supply List for grades TK-5   Don’t Forget!  Gravenstein Elementary School is Now on Facebook and Twitter!  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GravensteinElementary/ Twitter @GravElementary   WHAT'S NEW at HILLCREST MIDDLE SCHOOL?   Soar Hawks Soar into Summer Dear Hillcrest Families, Thank you for another incredible year at Hillcrest Middle School.  Despite all the challenges that we faced our students, staff and families helped to make this one of our best years ever.  Too our graduating 8th graders - we wish you good luck as you move onto High School.  To our current 6th & 7th graders - we hope you have a wonderful summer relaxing before we start our year next fall.  And to our incoming 6th graders - we hope that you are as excited about joining the Hawks of Hillcrest as we are to have to you here. We wish our entire GUSD school community a restful and relaxing summer.  See you in August and as always - Soar Hawks Soar!   Facebook Are you curious about what is happening at Hillcrest Middle School? Want to keep up to date on activities and events? Want a glimpse into the classroom and see what our teachers are teaching and what your students are learning? If so then make sure you go to Facebook and follow Hillcrest Middle School - Sebastopol !   GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD   Gregory Appling, President - gappling@grav.k12.ca.us Jeri McNeill, Clerk -   jmcneill@grav.k12.ca.us Alex Kahn, Trustee - akahn@grav.k12.ca.us Jennifer Koelemeijer, Trustee -  jkoelemeijer@grav.k12.ca.us Patrick Lei, Trustee - plei@grav.k12.ca.us   WEBSITE           ABOUT US           MENUS             SCHEDULES   Elementary School Website Middle School  Website Creative  Arts Program  

Sunday, Jun 05 2022

Monday Message May 30, 2022 for GUSD Families

GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT Monday Message May 30, 2022     A MESSAGE FROM GUSD ADMINISTRATION   Mark Your Calendars Monday, May 30th - NO SCHOOL Tuesday, May 31st - 7th Grade Locker Clean Out Tuesday, May 31st - 8th Grade Graduation Field Trip Wednesday, June 1st - 8th Grade Locker Clean Out Wednesday, June 1, 6pm - 8th Grade Graduation Ceremony Thursday, June 2 - Minimum Day Friday, June 3 - Minimum Day Friday, June 3, 10:30am - 5th Grade Promotion Ceremony   Lunch Menu To view the entire April menu click here for English or Spanish .  Menu items are subject to change and we cannot guarantee both options will be available. Mon 30th Tue 31st Wed 1st Thu 2nd Fri 3rd NO SCHOOL *Manager's Choice *Manager's Choice *Manager's Choice *Manager's Choice Sack Lunch Sack Lunch Sack Lunch Fruits & Veggie Fruits & Veggie Fruits & Veggie Fruits & Veggie * Vegetarian Option   Moving?? We don’t want to see you go, but if your family is moving and will not be at Gravenstein or Hillcrest in the 2022-2023 school year, please inform the school’s front office.     Dave Rose Keri Pugno Will Deeths drose@grav.k12.ca.us kpugno@grav.k12.ca.us wdeeths@grav.k12.ca.us   GRAVENSTEIN PARENT ASSOCIATION   Welcoming Our New GPA Board for the 2022-23 School Year! We are so happy to welcome our new GPA Board Members! Questions about GPA?  Please email us at gravensteinparentassociation@gmail.com Thank you to the 2021-22 GPA board members for all of their hard work!  A special thank you to Erin Hillmer and Christina Cook for their invaluable leadership and dedication to GPA over the last few years. We are thankful for returning GPA board members and 6 new board members. Please join us in welcoming this awesome group of new volunteers: President:   Amber Ray Hernandez Vice President:  Anica Truter Treasurer:   Ben Kaun Secretary:  Rachel Allen Members at Large:   Kaitlyn Amundsen   *  Paula Braurschweig   *   Ashley Cochran   * Allison Herman   *  Vy Le Morse  *  Bill Nolan   *   Stephanie Stephens *  Maggie Zavala Special Advisor to Executive Board:   Fanny Lam Thank you for a wonderful 2021-22 school year!  We look forward to a great year next year and wish everyone a safe and happy summer! Gravenstein Parent Association     Upcoming Board Meeting: Thursday, June 16, 2022 at 6:00pm Hillcrest Middle School in the Stem Room   Follow Us On Social Media Stay up to date in the quickest way by following us on Facebook and Instagram .  Tag your photos with #wearegpa to show your school pride!   COUNSELORS' CORNER     Teens and Sleep The Washington Post Recently came out with a story stating today's teens are the most sleep deprived population in human history.  The average high-schooler sleeps 6½ hours a night, when they optimally need nine-ten hours; and 1 in 5 teens sleeps five or fewer hours a night .  In fact there have been several studies connecting sleep loss and poor mental health.  Adolescents who sleep fewer than eight hours a night are more likely to report symptoms of depression.  One analysis found that under slept teens getting six to seven hours a night were 17 percent more likely to think about hurting themselves than those sleeping eight; and sleeping five hours a night made them 81 percent more likely to consider self-harm. To read the remainder of this article click here for:   English or Spanish   Adverse Childhood Experiences Please check out this flyer regarding "Parenting to Prevent and Heal Adverse Childhood Experiences" in English or Spanish .   Hillcrest Counseling Facebook Page Click on the link below to to view all the resources available to you and your family on the Hillcrest Counseling Facebook page. Hillcrest Middle School Counseling Page   WHAT'S NEW at GRAVENSTEIN ELEMENTARY?   Gravenstein Bell Schedule for the Last Week of School Tuesday, 5/31 Regular Day Wednesday, 6/1 Early Release Day Thursday, 6/2 Minimum Day Friday, 6/3 Minimum Day Grades TK/K 8:45-2:20 8:45-1:00 8:45-11:50 *bag lunch to go 8:45-11:50 *bag lunch to go Grades 1/2 8:30-3:20 8:30-1:45 8:30-12:30 *bag lunch to go 8:30-12:30 *bag lunch to go Grades 3/4/5 8:15-3:05 8:15-1:30 8:15-12:10 *bag lunch to go 8:15-12:10 *bag lunch to go * For students that order a school lunch on Minimum Days, they will pick up a bagged lunch to take and eat at home.  There is NOT a scheduled lunch or lunch recess time on Minimum Days.   Kindergarten Rocks! Last Thursday, the Kindergarten classes kicked off the first of our end-of-the-year activities.  The Gravenstein courtyard was full of parents and family members who came to celebrate the accomplishments of this group of students.  Next week, each grade level will also be celebrating the end of the year with a grade level Field Day.  Grade 5 will also have a promotion ceremony on the last day of school.   Don’t Forget!  Gravenstein Elementary School is Now on Facebook and Twitter!  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GravensteinElementary/ Twitter @GravElementary   WHAT'S NEW at HILLCREST MIDDLE SCHOOL?   Girls Flag Football Rally Congratulations to the Hillcrest Girls Flag Football team who went undefeated and brought home the league championship!  We will hold a rally for the team on Wednesday, June 1st at 1:15  in the Duck Pond!  Families of the players are welcome to attend!   Locker Clean Out It’s time to clean out the locker room!  7th graders will clean out their lockers during class time on Tuesday.  8th graders will clean out their lockers after graduation practice on Wednesday!   Please bring bags to bring home your stuff!   Last Week of School Bell Schedule Tuesday, 5/31 Regular Day Wednesday, 6/1 Early Release Day Thursday, 6/2 Minimum Day Friday, 6/3 Minimum Day 8:30-3:15 8:30-1:55 8:30-12:15 8:30-12:15   8th Grade End of the School Year Schedule Monday, May 30th NO SCHOOL Tuesday, May 31st 8th Grade Graduation Field Trip to Six Flags Vallejo. Wednesday, June 1st 8th Grade Graduation practice.  All 8th grade students participating in the Graduation Ceremony must attend school that day and participate in the Graduation practice. Early Release Day - Students will be dismissed at 1:55 Graduation Ceremony - 6:00 pm - Hillcrest Middle School Blacktop - All students participating in the ceremony must be in Hillcrest Hall no later than 5:30 pm.   Thursday, June 2nd 8th Grade students will wear their graduation gowns and take a bus to Gravenstein Elementary School.  The 8th grade students will walk the halls, high fiving the Gravenstein students and staff as a way to say “goodbye” to their elementary school.  Permission slips will be sent home in the next few days. Students will be dismissed at 12:15 Friday, June 3rd 8th Grade Graduation Breakfast in Hillcrest Hall at 8:30 am.  Parents of graduating students may attend.  More details are coming soon. All school Field Day will be held on the field. 8th Graders will receive their actual Diplomas this day. Students will be dismissed at 12:15     Facebook Are you curious about what is happening at Hillcrest Middle School? Want to keep up to date on activities and events? Want a glimpse into the classroom and see what our teachers are teaching and what your students are learning? If so then make sure you go to Facebook and follow Hillcrest Middle School - Sebastopol !   GRAVENSTEIN UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD   Gregory Appling, President - gappling@grav.k12.ca.us Jeri McNeill, Clerk -   jmcneill@grav.k12.ca.us Alex Kahn, Trustee - akahn@grav.k12.ca.us Jennifer Koelemeijer, Trustee -  jkoelemeijer@grav.k12.ca.us Patrick Lei, Trustee - plei@grav.k12.ca.us   WEBSITE           ABOUT US           MENUS             SCHEDULES   Elementary School Website Middle School  Website Creative  Arts Program  

Sunday, May 29 2022