from Every Hour Henceforth

by Aberjhani

New in this week's Dragon's Fire

This was not the first message I expected to send in the new year. However, it is important to reflect on the horrific events that occurred yesterday in our nation’s Capitol Building in Washington D.C. and across the country. While it is normal for people to react differently to election outcomes, what we witnessed is another instance of rage and fear that has recently escalated in our nation. It can feel disheartening and exhausting—I feel it too. It is my hope and belief that brighter, calmer days are ahead of us, despite the challenges and frustrations we currently face.

As we all do our own processing of the violence and domestic terrorism we witnessed, please know Seattle Public Schools will continue to model civility and our racial equity values. Our youth continue to be a beacon of hope and we will do all we can to make sure they are supported and safe. Last night, district staff sent educational resources to school leaders to share with educators to support classroom conversations over the next few days and provide support for students and families. Those resources are also attached to this letter. We are here to support you.

Today, as always, I am grateful to be a part of a district that is focused on dismantling racism. I know for some, yesterday’s events brought back painful memories from this summer, where Black Lives Matter protests were met with violence and discriminatory images and rhetoric. Our strategic plan, Seattle Excellence, makes clear that improving outcomes for Students of Color grounds our work and furthers our commitment to dismantling legacies of racism in our educational system. Our district, like our democracy, will not be silenced by violence or hate.

While we saw so much destruction yesterday, we are also observing courage, strength, and integrity in most of our elected officials and congressional delegation. I applaud those who are speaking out and holding those in the top offices of our country accountable. Positive change is possible, and I know our young people will lead us to a better place.

I am in awe of your unwavering commitment to our students and families. Please let me know how the district can support you during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Denise

Seattle Public Schools Superintendent

From Mr. Alex's advanced drawing and painting class.

We are so excited about 2021 at TCS! While this is the time of year when we normally gear up for our big annual community event, the Center School Auction, we all know that large gatherings are a no-go these days. But we also know that our students are relying on us to fundraise so we can enrich their high school experience. Our students are working hard, and we are not going to let them down!

There may be a pandemic, but the Auction Team has gotten creative. We're planning some community celebrations and fundraising events, and we need volunteers. There are lots of ways to help. Can you help us plan an event? Can you host an event? Can you provide supplies or make a donation so we can buy the supplies for an event? Do you have a fundraising idea you’d like to share with us?

Here are some of the ideas we're considering:

Do any of these sound intriguing? Want more info on how you can help, in ways big or small? Email Rosina at RosinaAuction@gmail.com.

And finally, in the past we have been able to offer a weekend or even a week in a vacation home as an auction item. In 2021, many families will be looking forward to a safe change of scenery when that is possible. If you have a vacation home available for a weekend or a week, please email Angie at auctionprocurementtcs@gmail.com.

It's hard to parent our teens under the best of circumstances. It can be downright baffling in a pandemic. Deborah Farmer Kris's article provides some much-needed perspective on the best ways to be there for our kids right now. Her advice includes:

Kris goes into depth on each of these topics, providing information on why they work and tips on how to implement them. Read the full article.

We know TCS is a hidden treasure, but we have to help Seattle families find us! Because TCS is a choice school, our open houses are critical to recruiting the students we need for each incoming class. Virtual open houses will be held Jan 20 and 25, 6–6:30 pm for students and 7–7:30 pm for families. Please spread the word and forward the flyer to friends and family whose students might like to know about TCS!

Each year TCS provides students with a Student Handbook that is included in the student planner. This year TCS opted to forgo the planner but has been working on other ways to provide students with access to an up-to-date handbook. Dr. Casey has been revising the Student Handbook as school policies and procedures have been adjusted for COVID-19 response. When revisions are complete, the TCS Student Handbook will be posted on the TCS website as well as on the Source and Schoology. We'll let you know when that happens.

SPS is facing turnover in two key leadership positions:

Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking and Technology (DO- IT) Scholars prepares Washington State high school students with disabilities for success in college and careers. Scholars attend summer study sessions, held during three consecutive summers at the UW campus. This allows students to experience college life and work on self-advocacy skills. Throughout the school year, students connect with program staff, DO-IT Mentors, and each other using email and e-lists. They also meet in-person at DO-IT events, complete individual and group projects, and receive valuable information and support for the transition to college. NNL is currently recruiting students for year-round programming and the upcoming summer camp in 2021. High school students (and their parents) who are interested in participating can contact Scott Bellman for more information.

Seattle University offers academic, credit bearing, high school summer programs. SU’s Summer Business Institute is an Albers School of Business & Economics program focused on social entrepreneurship. The program provides high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors the opportunity to explore entrepreneurship, marketing, data visualization, accounting, economics, and more while gaining exposure to university life in the Seattle area. Scholarships are available. Application deadline is Mar 30, 2021.

Find inspiration, plan for college, and empower your future with Microsoft's High School Program. Get hands-on experience and on-the-job learning as you work on technology projects that make a difference in people's lives around the world. Starting in Jan, the Microsoft High School Internship is open to current high school students who live within 50 miles of Redmond, WA and have a demonstrated interest in technology. Students must be at least 16 years old and have a legal right to work in the US for the duration of the internship. Applicants should be available to work full-time (paid) for 10 consecutive weeks (Jun 22–Aug 28, 2020). More information and application.

ISB is offering 8-week, paid summer research internships for rising seniors (juniors) to learn complete systems of biology research and work with many specialists. Interns will be directly involved in a variety of projects, using many types of technology and techniques, while gaining valuable microbiology, engineering, and computational experience. If you are enthusiastic about interdisciplinary research and the practice of systems biology and systems thinking, get more information and apply.

Preparing a diverse pipeline of community-minded students with the leadership training they need to be successful in the workforce is vital to B of A's approach to responsible growth and helps build thriving communities. Every year, through our Student Leaders program, we help connect 225 community-minded high school juniors and seniors to employment, skills development, and service. Students are awarded paid summer internships with local nonprofits such as Boys and Girls Clubs of America and Habitat for Humanity and participate in a national leadership summit in Washington, D.C. The Student Leaders Summit focuses on skill-building and creating a more civically engaged society. The 2021 Student Leaders application period is open until Jan 31, 2021. Learn more about locations and eligibility criteria.

Teens In Public Service is a not-for-profit dedicated to developing future leaders committed to their communities. TIPS selects teenage leaders ages 15–19 for paid community service internships and pairs them with charitable organizations over the summer. Internships offer teens practical work experience, an understanding of ethical leadership, and a venue to put their values into action. Applications are due by Mar 5, 2021.

January Scholarship Bulletin is here! There are a variety of scholarship opportunities.

The College Success Foundation’s scholarship application cycle has begun. Applications will close Jan 31, 2021. Read more and apply.

Pride Foundation scholarships fund LGBTQ+ students who have faced barriers, regardless of school, major, or GPA. We see leadership, and leadership potential, in students who show up for their communities and want to help find new, better ways forward. Since awarding our first scholarship in 1993, we have awarded over $6 million to more than 1,800 students in AK, ID, MT, OR, and WA. Pride Foundation has more than 60 scholarship funds available through a single application. Applications are due Jan 8, 2021. Read more and apply.

About Scholarship is offering a $1000 cash scholarship to support students during COVID-19 so they can continue their education. Any student currently enrolled (during the 2020 school year) in an American high school, college, or university may apply. Simply fill in our short application form—no essay required. Winner(s) will be announced once the scholarship application deadline passes. Deadline: Apr 30, 2021. Apply here.

In addition to its own service learning program for high school students, the Seattle Public Library provides a list of other organizations providing service learning opportunities. If your teen is searching for volunteer opportunities, check out SPL's list.

Join youth and environmental professionals across Puget Sound to discuss environmental issues such as climate change, waste reduction, natural resource benefits and management, marine health, and more! Share your ideas and learn from others in this interactive conference. This event is open to youth in grades 8 to 12. Event is Jan 20, 1—3:45 pm. Register by Jan 15. Read more and register.

YESC is launching an Art Series starting this month that will continue until June! Each month will have a different creative focus including drawing and painting, nature photography, videography, and nature art (art created using natural materials). January is dedicated to nature journaling! Join us to create your own journal using some recycled materials and share ideas about how to use it. This month's event will be held Jan 13, 4—5:15 pm. Read more and register.

YGB is hosting a virtual workshop and mentoring on Feb 6, 11 am—3 pm. The conference is for African American high school students with a 3.0 or higher GPA. The purpose is to promote positive self-esteem, social consciousness, and cultural awareness, while simultaneously emphasizing the importance of higher education. UW faculty and staff work to connect with students and provide them with the resources they need to pursue the goal of higher education. Read more and apply.

Join Larry Davis and Steve Gill for a webinar focusing on what you can do as an advocate for your student in these unusual times. Key areas of this presentation will be:

COVID-19 has affected Seattle residents in many ways. Many people, including older adults and families, are facing tough times due to job loss. The City of Seattle can help people who are struggling to pay their electricity and utilities bills. Read more.

Seattle Public Library has retooled itself as a robust online community resource. Check out its many offerings for high school students, including academic support, projects, learning guides, and mental health resources.

The Center for Neurotechnology (CNT) at the University of Washington sponsors a five-day YSP-REACH program on the Seattle Campus during the summer. The goal is to provide students with exposure to the field of neural engineering and provide basic preparation for college studies in STEM subjects as well as future STEM careers. High school students receive an introduction to neuroscience and neural engineering, neuroethics, scientific communication, and the latest developments in brain-computer interfaces.

Planned dates for summer 2021 are Aug 2–6. If the program is held in-person, the cost will be $500/student. If the program is held online, the cost will be $100/student. Scholarships to cover the costs for some students will be available. Application for the 2021 summer program is now available. Application deadline is Mar 1, 2021.

This event is a launching point for youth action and provides an opportunity for students from across the Puget Sound to share ideas and learn from others in the environmental community. A keynote will kick off the event; then, participants will take part in three round-table discussions centered on environmental topics. Discussions are moderated by a professional from the environmental field. Afterwards, we'll enter a town-hall style reflection to share ideas and actions that address these environmental issues. This year student selected table topics will include: waste reduction, climate change, marine health, environmental justice, plastics, and much more.

The summit is for students grades 8–12 and will take place Jan 20, 2021, 1–3:45 pm. Registration deadline is Jan 15, 2021. Read more and register online.

Skyhawks Sports Academy needs exceptional youth sports coaches to lead youth sports classes and camps for ages 4–12. Read more and apply.