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JOIN THE 50 DAY CHALLENGE! HELP PTSA RAISE $50,000 IN 50 SCHOOL DAYS!

California K-12 public schools are still underfunded. At our school, your contribution will help pay for much-needed extras such as a math tutor for enrichment, remedial, and after school homework help, classroom grants for 31 teachers, library books, paper, assemblies, and more.

Please give to our Annual Giving Campaign 2016. For 50 days, from now to December 16, our goal is to raise $50,000. Every little bit counts. 55 cents a day would amount to almost $100 over the course of our school year. And if every family donates $100 or more, we would surpass our fundraising goal. Click on our Donate button today!

LibraryRATS RETURNS SEPTEMBER 20!

Ms. Bogie’s LibraryRATS (Reading and Technology Stars) Club is coming back! Library RATS starts Tuesday, September 20, from 2:30 to 3:30 PM. In that hour, club members will play games and work on book projects, as well as technology and engineering-related projects (e.g. building circuits). The club is open to ALL students. Interested students must register with Ms. Bogie at the
library.

SAVE THE DATE: KOREMATSU YARD SALE, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 9 AM -4 PM

We need donations of gently-used household items, toys, sports gear and equipment, small furniture, etc. Please drop off items at our Parent’s Room in Building A, right across the main office.

Drop-off times are: Thursday, September 22, 6-8 PM; Thursday, September 29, 6-8 PM; Thursday, October 6, 6-8 PM; Tuesday, October 11, 6-8 PM; Thursday, October 20, 5-8 PM; Friday, October 21, 5-9 PM.

Many volunteers are needed to sort out items on Friday, Oct. 21, 5-9 PM & on Saturday during the sale itself. Contact Lisa at 510-750-8163 or lmcdbj@gmail.com .

OPEN TO ALL STUDENTS: FREE ON-CAMPUS AFTER SCHOOL MATH HOMEWORK HELP

The sessions for all grades take place on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, in Room A201. Hours: Mon 2:30-3:30 Tues 2:30-3:30 Thurs 2:30-3:30. Wednesday and other minimum days 1:30-2:30. Come with math questions and math tutor Brad will help your student figure them out! Students are expected to abide by regular classroom behavior expectations or will be asked to leave. Sponsored and funded by the Korematsu PTSA.

EXCITING AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

The BACR after school program at Korematsu is offering more options to our students. Here is the list of activities and their first meeting dates:

Girls Volleyball – started 9/6;
Flag Football – started 9/7;
Cross Country – started 9/12;
Gardening – started 9/6;
Step Team – started 9/6;
Girls Basketball – Mid September;
Boys Basketball – Mid October;
Yoga – started 9/14 Wednesdays only;
Cooking – started 9/14 Wednesdays only.

Future Enrichments: Debate Team, Dance Team, Drama Club, and Stem Project Team (8 student limit).

Questions about after school activities? Reach Expanded Learning Coordinator Darrell Cockerham at dcockerham@bacr.org .

EXCHANGE STUDENTS AT KOREMATSU: BECOME A HOST FAMILY FOR 10 DAYS

Korematsu will have a group of students from China attending class for 10 days in October. The organizer is in need of homestay families to host students from October 12 to 22. Compensation ($50/day/student) is provided; can be up to 3 students for the total of $150/day. If you are interested in hosting, please contact Joseph Kong at 415-415-860-8101 or sunnyivyedu@gmail.com .

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN SCHOOLS: BECOME A WRITERCOACH CONNECTION VOLUNTEER

WriterCoach Connection brings teams of trained volunteers to help students one-on-one with their classroom writing assignments. Coaching is a low time commitment (only once or twice a month for 1-2 hours) but very fun and rewarding. Watch a two-minute video intro https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxewKjDID60

We provide all the training you’ll need to be a terrific coach! Register for a free training at http://www.writercoachconnection.org. Please contact  if you have questions.

WE ARE SUPPORTING MEASURE T!

The Korematsu PTSA voted to support Measure T in November! This measure renews support for our schools by contributing $9.8 million dollars a year to athletics, libraries,
counselors and more! You can learn more about Measure T here
http://www.wccusd.net/Page/6803

Want to support the campaign? We are going to need your help. Donate money,
get a yard sign, sign up to phone bank, “Like” their Facebook page and
more!! Learn more here! https://measuret2016.nationbuilder.com/volunteer

Your visible support is really important! Need a sign? Fill out this form and we will get you one! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScF1rLUwUv5zh8nf3TXzoGSfEeyF1DvdidB9PockyedTIcQA/viewform

PARENT’S CHECKLIST

> HAVE YOU JOINED THE PTSA?

Sign up over our website. Go to http://KorematsuMiddleSchool.org. Click on the
yellow Donate button, which will take you to our PayPal link. In the
“Comments” field, enter “PTSA Membership” and we will do the rest! For more
information, go to https://korematsumiddleschool.org/join/

> HAVE YOU SUBSCRIBED TO THE GOOGLE CALENDAR?

How to subscribe:

1. Go to our Google Calendar. Click on this link. http://korematsumiddleschool.org/calendar/

2. *Click on the “+GoogleCalendar” button in the lower right hand corner.

3. Follow the Google prompts and the Korematsu events will now populate
your calendar!

> HAVE YOU SUBSCRIBED TO THE E TREE?

The E Tree is the main way news and information is distributed on campus.
You will receive mail every Thursday when school is in session, and
occasionally, reminders. To subscribe, email korematsuptsa@gmail.com .

> HAVEN’T BEEN RECEIVING EMAILS?

We’ve had trouble reading some handwriting, so several email addresses are
bouncing back. Please contact us at korematsuptsa@gmail.com if you are not
receiving the Thursday e newsletter.

> HAVE YOU OBTAINED A VOLUNTEER BADGE?

Becoming actively involved in education can influence the direction and
quality of learning for all students. Any time you are on campus, please
come to the main office and sign in prior to starting your assignment.

If you plan to spend regular time in the classroom or assist in an activity
on a routine basis, you are required to go through the fingerprinting
process.

Free fingerprinting sessions for volunteers are back! Click here for dates:

http://www.wccusd.net/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=1&ModuleInstanceID=6159&ViewID=047E6BE3-6D87-4130-8424-D8E4E9ED6C2A&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=12224&PageID=1

> HAVE YOU LIKED THE KOREMATSU FACEBOOK PAGE?

Join the online conversation on issues affecting our children’s lives!
Post. Like. Share. Comment.Tag. Korematsu on Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/PortolaMiddleSchool

Another school year is round the corner. The Korematsu PTSA is here to help you navigate middle school. We also work closely with school administration to organize programs and events that support student success.

FIRST DAY!
School begins Monday, August 22^nd

First Bell rings at 8:10 a.m.  It is a Minimum Day.  School ends at 1:25 p.m.

SCHEDULES, ID’s 
Schedules given out at orientation were draft schedules. There could be changes. There will be lists posted around the school and also adults standing around campus holdings lists, directing students to their first period class. Once they are in their first period class, they will get a copy of their official schedule.If a student was unable to come and get their ID picture taken prior to the first day of school, they need to go to class and we will make an announcement letting them know when they can come to get their ID. This will NOT be done on the first day.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

1. School ID on lanyard.
2. Map of campus.
3. Sharpened pencils and erasers (mistakes OK!!).
4. Lunch or meal card or cash to purchase.
5. Binder with paper inside.
6.   Backpack to hold it all!
7.   Some returning students report they used a composition book for each class. You may need a 5-tab binder with pockets to hold handouts.  Teachers will tell students what is required for class.If you buy ahead, save the receipt in case a teacher changes it up.
8. You do not change for P.E. on the first day.

DROP OFFS AND PICK UPS
Drive around the school in a clockwise direction.  Drop and pick up students at the marked, designated areas on Norvell and Lawrence.  For student safety, and to improve traffic flow, drop students on the school side of the street.  Please refrain from dropping students directly in front of the school on Donal Avenue.  In the mornings and afternoons, Donal Avenue is used by AC Transit and other buses, therefore, it must be kept clear so that the buses can make their stops.

Parking
There is no parking on the school side of Donal Avenue. The school side of Donal Avenue must be kept clear for AC Transit and other bus use.  Please park legally on Lawrence, Gladys or Norvell Streets.

Please respect our neighborhood and our neighbors.  Please refrain from blocking any driveways …. even for a minute … and always follow traffic rules and regulations.

AC Transit
AC Transit runs dedicated routes to and from Richmond.  These routes run only on school days Monday to Friday and the schedules are timed to match the hours of local schools and operate only when schools are in session.  Even though these buses are specific to school schedules, they are open to all passengers at regular fare. Find routes here!  667  668 675 

HOW TO STAY INFORMED AND INVOLVED
 SUBSCRIBE TO THE ETREE.  Email us at koremastuptsa@gmail.com to be added.  We publish The Phoenix, every Thursday (and occasional reminders when needed).

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR GOOGLE CALENDAR, which lists events at Korematsu.
How to subscribe:

1. Go to our Google Calendar.
2. Click on the “+GoogleCalendar” button in the lower right hand corner.
3. Follow the Google prompts and the Korematsu events will now populate your calendar!

“LIKE” US ON FACEBOOK – THE ONLINE CONVERSATION ON KEY ISSUES AFFECTING OUR CHILDREN’S LIVES

Post. Like. Share. Comment. Tag. Korematsu on Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PortolaMiddleSchool

PARTICIPATE IN OUR COMMUNITY EVENTS and meet new and returning students and their families, staff, and Principal Burnham at the:

Ice Cream Social
Saturday, August 20, 3 to 5 PM, Castro Clubhouse & Park (next to Korematsu Campus).

Free Event. For a more fun way to meet people, try volunteering at the event. Please sign up for the Ice Cream Social here

Back to School Pizza Picnic
Thursday, August 25, 5 to 7 PM, Korematsu Amphitheater (outside the Multipurpose Room)

$5 per person (pizza, salad, drinks & dessert). The event could use your energy. Please sign up for the Pizza Picnic here

UPCOMING EVENTS/PROGRAMS:

MATH CLUB
Every Wednesday, starting August 24, both lunchtimes. Room A201.

Math Club is a lunchtime activity where get help with homework, play games and solve puzzles, and earn extra credit and have fun with math!

Parent volunteers are warmly welcome and are needed to provide support (NO MATH KNOWLEDGE NECESSARY)! Contact: korematsuptsa@gmail.com and we will send you on to the proper people. Sponsored and paid for by your PTSA.

PROBLEMS WELCOME!!

AFTER SCHOOL MATH TUTORING
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday

Starts Monday, August 29, Room A201. Hours: Mon 2:30-3:30 Tues 2:30-3:30 Thurs 2:30-3:30. Wednesday and other minimum days 1:30-2:30.

This after school hour is open to anyone in our community that needs help with math.  Parents and guardians of Korematsu students are welcome to attend too!  Just bring any math work you need help with or any math questions you might have. No appointment necessary, but students are expected to abide by regular classroom behavior expectations or they will be asked to leave. Room A201. Sponsored and paid for by your PTSA.

NEED MORE INFO ON PTSA MEMBERSHIP AND DIRECT DONATIONS?
Sign up over our website. Go to KorematsuMiddleSchool.org. Click on the yellow Donate button, which will take you to our PayPal link. In the “Comments” field, enter “PTSA Membership” and we will do the rest!

REGISTRATION UPDATE

LOCATION CHANGE

Registration has moved to the MPR!

Apologies for the change in location, but this is our first event on the new campus! After analyzing flow, we think we’ll have a much more efficient and positive experience in the MPR.

Enter at the Lawrence Street or Donal Avenue entrances.

PE CLOTHES

PE Clothes are $22. $11 for the top, and $11 for the bottom. Cash only.  However, if you don’t like ours, and because we are a public school, you do not need to buy them from us.  Any plain grey top/short combination as pictured above will suffice as long as it allows for easy movement.

IMMUNIZATION RECORDS

We realize the notice is short….if all incoming 7^th graders can bring immunization records, it would be very helpful.  There are new laws in effect this year and the Tdap shot is required among others. Eventually, if records are not received, your child will not be allowed to attend class.  If you can bring them, great.  If not, additional communication will go out about the new law and the new immunization needs.

MAKE-UP REGISTRATION

JUST COME ON IN!

Thank you all for calling!  Due to the overwhelming number of people that are unable to make the August 9th-11th dates, please come to the Main Office August 15-19 anytime between 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. There is no need to set an appointment.  It is our preference for you to come in before school begins, because learning begins on the first day.  But, if you absolutely can’t come before the first day, there will be plenty of staff on hand to direct students to their first class and coordinate student schedule pick-up. Announcements will be made during school.  Don’t worry!  Everyone will find their way!

WELCOME TO KOREMATSU!

As a reminder, registration will take place in the Korematsu Gymnasium on 7125 Donal Ave next week (see schedule below).  During registration, parents and guardians will complete forms and pick up class schedules, as well as get necessary materials, including textbooks and PE clothes. Students are encouraged, but not required to attend.   If you will be on vacation, please contact the school office at (510) 231-1449.

7th Grade Registration is on Tuesday, August 9^th
9 AM — A to H
10 AM — I to Q
11 AM — R to Z

8th Grade Registration is on Wednesday, August 10^th
9 AM — A to H
10 AM — I to Q
11 AM — R to Z

Make-up Day for All Grades is on Thursday, August 11^th, 9 AM to Noon.

What You Should Bring:
Bag or backpack for textbooks
Money for PE Supplies (Cash Only) and/or Korematsu Spirit items (Cash, Check  or Credit Card)

PARKING
Parking is limited. Please park around the school in any of the legal parking spots on Donal, Lawrence or Norvell. Please do not park in loading zones or block neighbors’ driveways.  Respect the neighborhood.

VOLUNTEER TO HELP AT REGISTRATION! 
Parent volunteers are welcome (and needed) at registration. Help is especially needed Tuesday, August 9^th and Wednesday August 10^th.  Any amount of time you can donate between 8:30 a.m. and Noon is welcome and appreciated.

Necessitamos personas que hablan Espanol especialmente.  Email: Alice Christie achristie@wccusd.net

FREE AND REDUCED MEAL APPLICATIONS NOW ONLINE!
Free and reduced meal applications are now available online!  

Safe and Secure
The highest level of data encryption is used, meaning that your information is always safe and guarded.

Private and Available
Apply online in the comfort and privacy of your own home. The online service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, anywhere there is an Internet connection.

Fast
Your data is transmitted to the Food Services Office the same day you apply, allowing for quicker processing so you receive benefits faster.

Apply in English, Spanish and many other languages!
Click here to learn more
Apply by clicking on this link!

KOREMATSU SPIRIT WEAR
If you are looking to buy Korematsu t-shirts and sweatshirts right now, we have a limited number of last season’s items that will be on sale during Registration and at the two socials. Today’s sweatshirt price is $20 (instead of $28) and t-shirt price is $10 (instead of $15). While supplies last.  When they are gone, they are gone!

COMMUNICATIONS AT KOREMATSU
Don’t miss out on important school-related information! Get on the e-tree and invite others to do the same!

The GOOGLE GROUP E-Tree is our prime communication method on campus.  Every Thursday the PTSA publishes “The Phoenix” newsletter electronically. It contains announcements of upcoming events, programming and links to online content.

Join the KOREMATSU GOOGLE GROUP. To be added, email us at: korematsuPTSA@gmail.com

“LIKE” us on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/PortolaMiddleSchool

SOCIALS!!!
Come meet new friends and catch up with the old at the following socials:

Ice Cream Social (Free Event)
Saturday, August 20, 3 to 5 PM
Castro Clubhouse & Park
(next to Korematsu Gym)

Back to School Pizza Picnic
Thursday, August 25^th, 5 PM to 7 PM
Korematsu Amphitheater
(Outside the Multipurpose Room)
$5 per person (pizza, salad, drinks & dessert)
Parents, Guardians, Students, Siblings – All Welcome!

It’s become an annual tradition, a get-to-know-you event before the start of school to chase away the middle-school jitters.  Saturday, August 20th 3-5pm, Castro Park Clubhouse.  We will see you there!!

It’s become an annual tradition, a get-to-know-you event before the start of school to chase away the middle-school jitters.  This year we are planning an ice cream social, likely to be held in Castro Park.  Date and time: Saturday, August 20th 3-5pm.  More details to follow.  We will see you there!!

Here is this flyer in PDF if you would like to save/print.

Tuesday, June 7th

6:00 p.m. Start Time

Please be advised that the promotion ceremony start time changed to 6:00 p.m.   We’ll be outside the MPR in our amphitheater and want a little extra daylight for the festivities.