Fairmeadow Elementary School eNews

Where Learning is a Team Sport!
September 26 , 2016
Fairmeadow News
A Rockin' Big Thank You!
Thank you everyone who rocked the walkathon yesterday! What fun to see the principal, teachers, and parents surprise the students with the flash mob!

This Wednesday, Mr. Althouse will announce how many kids participated (did we reach the 200 mark? will the ice cream be ours?), which class won the golden shoe, and how much money we raised for our fabulous school. There is still an opportunity for those who were unable to attend the Walkathon to walk today, September 26th, to get counted for their class participation and the ice cream total.  We will also send out emails with your winnings from our silent auction. 

A note from our Walkathon organizing committee: we couldn't have done this without all the people who stepped up to help this weekend. Our party hosts, our event volunteers, our donors and sponsors, and our teachers and staff are all so critical to making this event happen.  The Rock the Walkathon is a great community event, and it was amazing to see our school come alive on Sunday with energy, music, and happy faces. Thanks, everyone! Stay tuned for more news on how we did!
Walk & Roll to School Day is Coming Up!
On Wednesday, October 5th, Fairmeadow will join millions of students around the world who choose to walk, bike, ride the bus, or carpool instead of solo driving to school to celebrate International Walk to School DayArrive a little early to make sure you have time to meet our guest VIPs and enter our bike bell raffle before school starts!

If you're new to walking or biking to school, consult Fairmeadow's Walk & Roll Map for the best route (it's likely different from the route you drive) or contact our Safe Routes to School rep, Christy Moision, who is more than happy to help you find a great route.

Find more information about Palo Alto PTA Safe Routes to School programs at saferoutes.paloaltopta.org. The PTA thanks the City of Palo Alto and PAUSD for their support of this event.
Fairmeadow Walks & Rolls
For safer streets, healthier bodies, a greener planet.
Zero Waste at School
Curious about the different trash cans at Fairmeadow? Click here to read all about Palo Alto's commitment to Zero Waste practices, and how the students at Fairmeadow are helping. If you have any questions, please contact Robin Kozina-Carlson, Fairmeadow's Zero Waste Champion.
Art Card Fundraiser
The Kids' Art Card Fundraiser raises money for the PTA. Items such as picture stickers, note cards, note pads, gift tags, and more are available for purchase and will feature your child's art work and signature.  Order Forms and your child's Art Card went home last week. If your child(ren) did not have a chance to finish a card at school, they can work on it at home and turn it in by 10/6. Extra Art Cards and order forms are available in the office.  If you have questions, please contact Linda Eltherington.  

MARK YOUR CALENDAR: Please submit a packet containing your Order Form, Art Card(s), and Check to your teacher or the office by Thursday, October 6th.  
Tutu Day
On Thursday, our wacky teachers celebrated the 22nd with Tutu Day (get it? two-two?). You might have seen them sporting their awesome tutus, but in case you didn't we've got pictures thanks to  Paul Sakuma !


Even Principal Althouse and Superintendent McGee got into the action!

PAUSD  News
School Board Candidate Forum
Sat, Oct 1, 10 am - 12 pm (doors open at 9:30 am), Jordan Middle School (Gymnasium), 750 N. California Ave., Palo Alto
This is a wonderful opportunity to meet the candidates who are running for PAUSD School Board. This forum will focus on issues that impact outcomes for historically underrepresented families and students with special needs. Learn about candidates' priorities and ask any questions that you have.  Childcare, light refreshments, and Spanish translation provided. This forum is sponsored by Parent Advocates for Student Success, the Palo Alto Community Advisory Committee for Special Education, and the Palo Alto Council of PTAs.  Contact  paloaltocac@gmail.com  with any questions.
 
Sábado 1 de octubre de 10 am a las 12 del mediodía (las puertas se abren a las 9:30 am), Jordan Middle School, 750 N. California Ave., Gimnasio
Esta es una maravillosa oportunidad para conocer a los candidatos que se postularan a la Junta Escolar PAUSD. Este foro se centrará en preguntas acerca de los resultados y el impacto para las familias históricamente subrepresentadas de estudiantes con necesidades especiales. Podra obtener información acerca de las prioridades de los candidatos y hacer cualquier pregunta que tenga. Cuidado de niños, refrescos y la traducción al español estara disponible. Este foro está patrocinado por defensores de los padres para el éxito del estudiante, el Comité Asesor de Palo Alto Comunitario para la Educación Especial, y el Consejo de Palo Alto de los ACP.
School Board Candidate Forum K-5th Grade Focus
Tues, Oct 4, 6:30-8:30 pm, Barron Park School MP Room, 800 Barron Ave, Palo Alto
All interested Palo Alto Voters and PAUSD parents are invited to come and hear from the school board candidates! Barron Park, Ohlone, and Fairmeadow PTAs are co-hosting this K-5th grade-focused forum with all candidates. If you'd like to submit a question to have the candidates respond to, email your question to  k5october4forum@gmail.com  by Oct 3. Please keep your questions related to K-5th issues. There will be separate forums for Special Ed issues on Sat Oct 1st 10a-12p (location TDB) and possibly a forum for 6-12th grade issues (Day, Time, Location TBD).
Renaming Schools Advisory Committee Community Town Hall Meeting
Oct 17 or 24, 6:30-8:30 pm, Media & Arts Center at Palo Alto High School
To rename or not to rename any of Palo Alto's schools, that is the question the Renaming Schools Advisory Committee will begin to answer during its first town hall meeting in October. Renowned historians and educators with expertise in the Eugenics era, some of whom have actively provided their expertise in renaming efforts at other schools, will discuss if there is a rationale to consider renaming PAUSD schools whose namesakes were actively involved in Eugenics. The panelists will discuss how to evaluate a person's controversial legacy in historical context, the learning opportunities this debate provides, and how renaming or not renaming might affect the school community. The town hall meeting is intended to stimulate community discussion on this important topic, and will close with a Q&A session. Everyone in the community is welcome, please invite your friends and neighbors.
Community  News
Bike Palo Alto - Free Event
Sun, Oct 2, 1-4 pm, El Carmelo School, Bryant St. and Loma Verde Ave.
Now in its 7th year, Bike Palo Alto kicks off the fall Walk & Roll Week in PAUSD schools. Riders choose among three self-guided routes to get around our bike-friendly community, highlighting bike bridges, underpasses, and alternatives to busier roads.  Each route offers shorter and longer options, and rewards at treat stops along the way. Route maps, helmet fitting, and guidance on sharing the road safely will be available. Registered riders will receive a Frequent Rider Card, which offers rewards when filled out and returned.

Preregister here (and skip the lines) and download the waiver form, sign it, and bring it with you.

New this year in partnership with the City of Palo Alto and local vendors, the  Bike & Roll Expo at City Hall  (Bryant St. and Hamilton Ave.) is a highlighted treat stop on Bike Palo Alto's northern route, and will showcase innovative bicycling and car-free options for getting around our community. Located in front of City Hall, the Expo will feature displays and demonstrations of cargo bikes, electric bikes, scooters, three wheeled bikes and more, as well as treats from local businesses. Follow the link above for more information and the list of vendors.
Come Learn What to Expect for the Move to 6th Grade!
5th Grade Rising Parent Information Evenings Hosted by PiE:
  • Terman - Wed, Sept 28, 6:30 pm (Cafetorium)
  • JLS  - Wed, Sept 28, 7:00 pm (Cafetorium)
  • Jordan - Thurs, Sept 29, 6:30 pm (Multi-Purpose Room)
To ensure space for all, these evenings are open to current 5th grade parents only please.  More information on  PiE's website.
Project Safety Net Meeting
Wed, Sept 28, 4-6 pm, Rinconada Library,
Embarcadero Room, 1213 Newell Rd., Palo Alto
Are you interested in reducing youth mental health stigma and supporting youth voice? Please join us at our next Project Safety Net (PSN) meeting where you will have the opportunity meet and hear from members in our community who have the same interest. At this month's meeting, PSN is honoring September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. We will be featuring a Crisis Text Line that provides free crisis intervention via SMS message. You will also hear about upcoming events and trainings. RSVP at goo.gl/gUZS4B Project Safety Net is a collaborative community network held together by a common interest of fostering youth well-being in Palo Alto. Sign-up for its newsletter here .
Media Rules: Healthy Connections in the Digital Age
Fri, Sep 30, 7-8:30 pm, Memorial Aud., 551 Serra Mall, Stanford
Do you feel that media is all-consuming and rules your family life? Navigating technology can feel like uncharted and unprecedented territory for parents. How can we effectively manage media use when the rules of engagement seem to be constantly changing? Join us to explore how adults and kids can establish healthy connections and positive relationships in the digital age.  Speakers are Madeline Levine, Catherine Steiner-Adair, and Denise Pope. Adults $10; students free. Details and tickets at  here.
Paly PAC Groundbreaking Gala Celebration
Sat, Oct 1, 2:30 pm & 7:30 pm, Palo Alto High School Performing Arts Center, 50 Embarcadero Rd, Palo Alto
Come celebrate Paly's new Performing Arts Center! The Groundbreaking Gala will showcase students from Paly's drama, vocal music, and instrumental programs as they all perform together in this beautiful space for the first time. Every student who is involved in Paly's performing arts program will have at least one opportunity on stage at this very special opening. In addition, there will be several guest speakers and performers, plus intermission refreshments in the soaring main lobby. The gorgeous new facility, built thanks to a bond measure endorsed by the citizens of Palo Alto, is a state-of-the-art 25,100 square foot theatre. Designed to accommodate the three performing arts groups at Paly, it will support all 450 students per year who participate in the school's performing arts programs. Tickets $25-$100 at  palytheatre.com/tickets. A ny remaining tickets will be sold at the door one hour before curtain.
Free Community Day at Gamble Garden
Sun, Oct 2, 10 am - 2 pm, 1431 Waverley St, Palo Alto
Gamble Garden celebrates our community with a FREE fun filled all ages day. The day's festivities include fun children's activities, a gorgeous plant sale, horticultural resources, educational displays, garden demonstrations, food, entertainment, and of course ... digging for worms! This is an opportunity for the community to spend some time at Gamble Garden, meet neighbors, and enjoy some activities and hospitality. Click here to register.
Growing Populations, Shrinking Resources: Dynamics of a World in Crisis
Fri, Oct 7, 7:30 pm, Mitchell Park Community Center, Palo Alto
Documentary photographer Randy Olson has worked with National Geographic Magazine for 25 years, producing over 30 stories on issues of overpopulation, environmental degradation, resource extraction, and disappearing cultures. He will present his work followed by an interview with moderator Kim Komenich and Q&A session with the audience. Light refreshments included.
Info and tickets please visit:  paloaltophotoforum.org.   Contact:  info@paloaltophotoforum.org.
The Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University Family Sundays Program
Second Sundays, beginning Oct 9, 11 am - 4 pm, Stanford campus, off Palm Drive at Museum Way
The Cantor invites families to a day of wonder and learning at the museum. This is a free, family-focused day of art talks, hands-on art making, and gallery adventures for visitors of all ages. Explore the galleries and participate in programs designed to help families look at and think about art in new ways. Curiosity is encouraged. The day is designed to be flexible with no registration required, no standing in line, and no waitlists. Families can plan a unique museum experience and join the activities in which they are most interested.
5th Annual Kiwanis Angel Award honors Agent DuJuan Green, PA Police Department 
Thu, Oct 13, 5:30-7:30 pm, Palo Alto Sheraton, 625 El Camino Real, Palo Alto
Kiwanis Angel Award recognizes an individual who has provided significant contributions to children and youth. Agent DuJuan Green is being honored for his exemplary work as a School Resource Officer, Facilitator of the Parent Project which teaches enhanced parenting skills, and member of Project Safety Net. Program relevant for parents of students 6 grade to 12 grade. Cost $50 per person and sign up by October 6. Proceeds benefit children and youth programs.  Registration at  KiwanisAngelAward.org.  Contact:  Gail Price.  
SheHeroes Afternoon Tea with Fathers in Tech Encouraging Girls in STEM
Sun, Oct 16, 2-4:30pm, The Fairmont, San Francisco, Crowne Room
Enjoy an afternoon tea for the whole family (all ages) and listen to tech leaders speak about the crucial role men play in supporting women and girls in STEM and other fields. Formal tea includes gourmet food and beverages. Fun activities for kids include raffle, photo booth, girl panel, temporary tattoos. Further info at:  bit.ly/fatherdaughtertea.
Support Gunn's Seniors and Order Your Farm Fresh Pies from Gizdich Ranch!
Order now thru Oct 20; Pickup on Thu, Nov 3, 3:30-5:30 pm, Gunn High School Bat Cave 
Order delicious Gizdich Ranch Pies before Oct 20 for your holiday gatherings, and help raise funds for Gunn's Class of 2017 Senior Picnic, Grad Night Celebration, and scholarships for Seniors to attend those events. The pies come frozen and are made locally at Gizdich Ranch in Watsonville. Buy an extra pie and donate it to a special teacher or staff member! For the Gizdich Pie Order Form with more information, click here.  Any questions? Contact  mginx@sbcglobal.net . The Gunn Class of 2017 thanks you!
Support Paly Cheer and Dance with our Holiday Pie Fundraiser
Mon, Oct 24 (order deadline), Fri, Nov 18 Pick up your pies at Palo Alto High School in front of the Tower Bldg. from 3:30-6:30 pm
Enjoy delicious farm fresh pies while supporting Palo Alto High School's Cheer and Dance teams!  Apple, Two Berry, and Pumpkin Pies are available. They are flash-frozen from Gidzich Farms in Watsonville and are simply scrumptious! Get all the details  here.
Palo Alto Philharmonic Concerto Movement Competition
The Palo Alto Philharmonic is sponsoring a Concerto Movement Competition open to school-aged music students including both instrumentalists and vocalists. Each applicant should submit an unedited audio CD (5-15 minutes long) of his or her performance of a movement from a concerto or concert piece for soloist and orchestra. Applications, along with the demo CD and a non-refundable fee of $30 must be postmarked by December 31, 2016.  For more information or to download an application form  click here.
Sleep Study for Youth 18-21   
The Department of Psychiatry at Stanford University is recruiting 18-21 year old youth to participate in a paid research study on sleep and mood. You and your youth will receive up to $215 for completing the study. For more information about this study, please contact  dailyrest@stanford.edu   or (650) 736-2689 or visit  the website For general information about participant rights, contact 1-866-680-2906.
What is Sensory Motor Development? An Introduction to Occupational Therapy (all ages)
Tues, Sept 27; 7-9 pm, Parents Place, 200 Channing Ave., Palo Alto 
Occupational therapy (OT) can help kids with various needs improve their cognitive, physical, sensory, and motor skills and increase their confidence and sense of accomplishment. Come meet our occupational therapist and learn how OT can help your child's development. We will discuss: What is occupational therapy? What is sensory processing disorder? What does a motor skill delay look like? How can occupational therapy help my child? With Lisa Matudio, MS, OTR/L. $45; $30 additional parenting partner. Register here: goo.gl/ODIfpG.
Juggling Two: Your New Baby and Older Sibling (2nd trimester-newborns)
Thur, Sept 29, 7-9:00 pm, Parents Place, 200 Channing Ave, Palo Alto  
Growing your family can be a big adjustment. Discuss the emotions and preparations needed for juggling the individual needs of two children. Learn strategies for before, during, and after the new baby comes home. Anticipate older child behaviors and nurture a healthy sibling relationship right from the start. With Heidi Emberling, MA, parent educator. $45; $30 additional parenting partner.  Register here.
Cardinal Kids Day
Sat, Oct 8, Stanford Football v. Washington State
Enjoy a full day of interactive family activities and the most exciting football game you'll see all year.  Meet and interact with current Stanford student-athletes, participate in  Interactive kid-friendly activities, inflatables and games, and enjoy t he Bay Area's best food trucks. Kids 8th grade and under free with paid adult ticket. Information and tickets here.
Bringing up Bicyclists Parent Ed
Mon, Oct 3, 7-8:30 pm, Ohlone Elementary School, MP Room, 950 Amarillo Ave., Palo Alto
This class is for parents of elementary aged children who want to teach their students bike safety skills. Presented by Sylvia Star-Lack, City of Palo Alto Safe Routes to School Coordinator and League of American Bicyclists Certified Instructor. No children, please. For more information, see the flyer at the following link:  tinyurl.com/OhloneBUB2016
eNews Publication Guidelines
Previous editions of eNews can be found at the  eNews archive page.

Fairmeadow eNews Publication Guidelines:
  • Fairmeadow eNews is a publication of the Fairmeadow PTA. It is sent out each Monday morning, with special editions sent out as required.
  • If you want to publish an announcement relevant to Fairmeadow, send an email to fairmeadow.enews@gmail.comInclude the following information: title, date, time, and location of the event, a brief description, and contact information. Items submitted by Sunday 2 pm will appear in the Monday Edition.
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If you have any questions or suggestions, please contact Christy Moision, Fairmeadow's eNews editor, at fairmeadow.enews@gmail.com.

In This Issue
Important Dates
Oct 5 Walk & Roll to School Day

PTA Coffee and General Meeting
Oct 7 No School - Staff Development Day
Oct 10 Extended Kindergarten Begins
Oct 18 Picture Make-up Day
Quick Links