Korematsu

SCHOOL IS CLOSED
Monday, December 19th – Monday, January 2nd
SCHOOL RESUMES ON TUESDAY, January 3rd
ENJOY THE TIME OFF!

50 in 50
It’s not too late to make your contribution! Please join your fellow Korematsu families to support our students and donate today. There are 24 hours left to make a difference in our children’s education. Your contribution will help pay for many programs that support all our students. For more information, please see our flyer. Every donation is gratefully appreciated, so donate now!

NOMINATE A TEACHER FOR TEACHER EXCELLENCE AWARD!
DEADLINE IS TOMORROW
FRIDAY, DEC. 16

Over the past year or two, a Korematsu teacher has made a difference in your student’s life. It’s time to nominate him or her for the Ed Fund Teaching Excellence Awards! The Ed Fund is looking for teachers who inspire growth mindset, active learning, and college and career readiness. Winning teachers receive a $500 cash award, are honored at the Ed Fund’s Annual Soaring to Excellence Gala, and are recognized by the West Contra Costa Unified School Board. Nomination forms are due by Friday, December 16, 2016. http://edfundwest.org/nominate/
ADDITIONAL CHAPERONES NEEDED FOR FIELD TRIPS

Ms. Renee and Ms. Krug are looking for a few more parent chaperones for two field trips to the Oakland Museum to see the Black Panther exhibit.

Ms. Renee’s English students will attend on Thursday, January 5th. Please contact Ms. Renee at crenee@wccusd.net ASAP.

Ms. Krug’s classes and some of Ms. Renee’s newer students will attend on Friday, January 13th. Please contact Ms. Bogie at abogie@wccusd.net or Ms. Tanise Smith at tanise.smith@wccusd.net by January 3rd.

There will be buses to take the students to the museum. Chaperones could choose to meet the group(s) at the museum in lieu of riding on the bus. Although it is a full-day field trip, partial day help is also acceptable. Must have WCCUSD-issued volunteer badge or be willing to get one prior to the trip.

Thanks for your consideration!

FRED T. KOREMATSU SPEECH CONTEST

SUBMISSIONS DUE AT KOREMATSU MAIN OFFICE BY FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16

All students are invited to participate in the Fred T. Korematsu Speech Contest, which is organized by the Korematsu Institute as part of the Fred T. Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution celebration. This special day is celebrated every January 30th on Mr. Korematsu’s birthday. On this day, schools across the state are encouraged to remember the life of Fred Korematsu and recognize the importance of preserving civil liberties.

This year’s speech contest question is: How has Fred Korematsu’s quote, “Stand Up for What is Right,” influenced you in your life? How does this relate to current events today?

The speech must be 3-5 minutes in length. The finalist will present the speech at the Fred T. Korematsu Day event in San Francisco on January 29th.

WCCUSD LOCAL CONTROL ACCOUNTABILITY PLAN (LCAP) TOWN HALL MEETING

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11

6:30 TO 8 PM

PINOLE MIDDLE SCHOOL

1575 Mann Dr.

Pinole, 94564

WCCUSD welcomes students, families, staff, and community members to learn more about the 2016-17 LCAP and provide feedback on each goal and its actions and services.

Korematsu needs at least 3 parents to represent the school. If you are interested in attending the event, please contact Principal Burnham at mburnham@wccusd.net . Thank you!

ECHS WINTER CONCERT

EL CERRITO HIGH SCHOOL

THURSDAY, DEC. 15, 7:30 PM

FREE FOR KOREMATSU MUSIC STUDENTS

Featuring Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Ensemble!
Don’t miss Sleigh Ride with Gaucho alumni! Hope to see you there!

Tickets are $8 General, $5 Children/Students, Korematsu Music students & 5 yrs & under free.

NEED VOLUNTEERS FOR RIGHTS/RESPECT WEEK

JANUARY 30 TO FEBRUARY 3

The PTSA is planning a series of activities for a Rights/Respect Week around Korematsu Day, which is on January 30. If you are interested in the topic and would like to volunteer your time to either co-organize or support this important event, please email us at KorematsuPTSA@gmail.com . Thank you for your consideration.

KOREMATSU PTSA MEETING (7PM) + BAND PARENTS MEETING (6PM)

TUESDAY, JANUARY 10

The PTSA will meet at 7 PM in the multipurpose room. After covering PTSA business, we will hold a special session

“A YEAR LATER: AFTER ACTION REVIEW – THE NEW KOREMATSU BUILDING”

This session is devoted to giving comment on the building process, communications, the move and the after! How did it go? What do we love about our new building? What would we do differently? For about 30 minutes we will open the floor to your comments.

We will have WCCUSD District Engineering Officer, Luis Freese and consultants from EIP2 in attendance.

ALL ARE WELCOME. TEACHERS AND ADMINISTRATORS TOO!

Preceding the PTSA meeting is the Band Parents meeting in the band room, starting at 6 PM.

See you there!

CHIPOTLE FUNDRAISER

TUESDAY, JANUARY 10

4:30 PM TO 8 PM

Come in to the Chipotle at 9901 San Pablo Avenue in El Cerrito on Tuesday, January 10th between 4:30pm and 8:00pm. Bring in this flyer, show it on your smartphone or tell the cashier you’re supporting the cause to make sure that 50% of the proceeds will be donated to Korematsu Middle School.

More Details
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. TOTAL HEALTH DAY OF SERVICE

Kaiser Permanente is pleased to host an inaugural Martin Luther King, Jr. Total Health Day of Service event that will offer interesting and educational workshops to parents and students in grades 6-9. Experts in Financial Literacy, Academia, Mental and Physical Health will lead interactive workshops. Kaiser Permanente leaders also will share insights on Kaiser Permanente’s mission and why we are committed to total health in the communities we serve.

Who: Parents and students grades 6-9 (Please forward or share the flyer with your organization)

Date & Time: January 16, 2017, 8:00 am to 2:00 pm

Location: Waterfront Hotel in Oakland, California

How to sign up: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kp-mlk-total-health-day-of-service-general-tickets-30045736607 or email the event coordinators at KP-MLK-Event@kp.org

Agenda:

• 8:00 am – 8:30 am – Check-in & Breakfast
• 8:30 am – 9:30 am – Opening Comments
• 9:45 am – 12:30 pm – Breakout Sessions for Parents and Students
• 12:30 pm – 1:15 pm – Lunch
• 1:15 pm – 2:00 pm – Closing Comments
• Break Out Sessions:

Parents:

• Financial Health / Financial Literacy
• Physical Health
• Mental Health

Students:

• Academic Health
• Financial Health / Financial Literacy
• Physical Health

Sign-up Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kp-mlk-total-health-day-of-service-general-tickets-30045736607

Or go to www.EventBrite.com and search for “KP MLK Total Health Day of Service”.

If you have any questions, please email us at KP-MLK-Event@kp.org.

PROGRESS REPORT NIGHT
TUESDAY, DEC. 6th
KOREMATSU MPR
5:30 TO 6:30 PM
Curious about how your student is doing in middle school? Parents/guardians are invited to meet with teachers to discuss their children’s academic progress so far. Please note that each meeting will probably be very brief to accommodate as many parents as possible.

MATH NIGHT
TUESDAY, DEC. 6th, 6:30 PM
KOREMATSU MPR
All Welcome!!
Come on out and learn about the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics for Grades 7 and 8.

50 IN 50

We have only 16 days left in the PTSA Annual Giving Campaign and are just over 35% of the way towards our goal of $50,000. Many thanks to the families who have already participated!

We encourage every family to donate whatever amount they are comfortable with. Making our goal is important but knowing that we, the Korematsu families, are ALL committed to helping our students achieve is also important.

If 50% of Korematsu families contribute, we will give students an ice cream party! If we hit 75%, we will give them a pizza party! For more information on what your PTSA supports see our flyer. Every donation is gratefully appreciated, so donate now! Also, please consider copying this message into an email to friends and family members. Or, share our flyer with others. Every donation helps!

GROOVY KOREMATSU SPIRIT WEAR
SECOND OPPORTUNITY TO ORDER
(EXTENDED TO DEC. 7)
We’re extending the second opportunity order date till Wednesday, Dec. 7. This year’s t-shirts and sweatshirts are designed by professional designer Mark De Vito. Three options are available: Unisex t-shirt – $15; Ladies fitted t-shirt – $20 (runs small); Hoodie – $30.

Ways to order:

1. Drop off a check (payable to Korematsu PTSA) at the office, with a note indicating size and option.

2. Order Online with PayPal or credit card HERE and in the “Special Instructions” section, enter the size and option.

Only orders with payment will be processed.

PE HOODIES AND SWEATS
School PE hoodies and sweats are now available for purchase at $17 each. Please go to the school office (not the PTSA) to make this purchase.

STAFF & TEACHER’S HOLIDAY LUNCHEON
FRIDAY, DEC. 9th

What is your special or favorite holiday dish? Let’s share it with our fabulous staff and teachers at the December luncheon. We are also planning to gift each teacher with a bag of treats. To contribute dishes and treats, please click HERE .

We also need helping hands to set up, re-stock, and break down. Scroll down the sign up sheet to sign up to volunteer on the day of the luncheon. Please email our Teacher Luncheon Coordinator Astrid Broberg at liissaUSA@aol.com if you have any questions.

KOREMATSU LIBRARY HOURS

The Korematsu library is open to all students after school during these hours:

Monday — until 4:45 PM
Tuesday Library RATS (Reading and Tech Stars) 2:30-3:30 PM
Wednesday — until 3 PM
Thursday — until 4:45 PM
Friday open — 3 PM

On Mondays & Thursdays, students must arrive by 4 pm. Note: the library will close at 4 pm on Monday, Dec. 5.

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.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

KOREMATSU STUDENTS AT THE WORLD LANGUAGE NIGHT

THURSDAY, DEC. 1st, 6 PM

EL CERRITO HIGH SCHOOL CAFETERIA

Five Korematsu Spanish Language 7th graders are performing two poems and a dance at the World Language Night at the El Cerrito High School cafeteria.

76’ERS MEETING
FRIDAY, DEC. 2nd
7 PM
KOREMATSU MPR

The next meeting of the 76’ers will be on Friday, Dec. 2nd.

EL CERRITO HIGH SCHOOL WINTER JAZZ CONCERT
FRIDAY, DEC. 2nd

7:30 PM

ECHS AUDITORIUM

The concert will feature the Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Workshop, and Jazz Combo. Reception immediately following. General Admission $8, Students $5. For students planning to join the ECHS jazz bands next year, this is a special opportunity to see what’s in store.

JENNY K FUNDRAISER: ALL WEEK UNTIL NOV. 18 (9 AM TO 9 PM); MIXER ON NOV. 18, 6 PM
Get an early start on the holidays by shopping at Jenny K! And Jenny K will donate 20% of your purchase total toward Korematsu PTSA, which provides funds for math intervention, enrichment, and tutoring; extended library hours; teacher grants; and more.

WHERE: Jenny K, 6921 Stockton Avenue, El Cerrito. http://jennyk.com/ phone: 510-528-5350

This year, Jenny K will support multiple schools during this time. At the point of sale, ballots will be available for you to indicate your school preference to receive the 20% donation.

Not only will you support Korematsu Middle School, but you’ll support local business, too!

Come to the Fundraiser Mixer on Friday evening, November 18th, 6pm to 9pm. Shop at Jenny K and enjoy free finger food and water, and discounted wine and beer at Well Grounded Tea & Coffee Bar next door. Meet other parents from our local schools: share your experiences at Korematsu with them.

See you there!!

Korematsu PTSA thanks you, Jenny K!!!

 

50 in 50

We are over 30% of the way towards our goal of $50,000 with just 19 days left. Every donation is gratefully appreciated, so donate now! Also, please consider copying this message into an email to friends and family members. Or, share our flyer with others. Every donation helps!

SPIRIT WEAR: SECOND OPPORTUNITY TO ORDER

Owing to popular demand, the PTSA is organizing another opportunity to order this year’s spirit wear items — t-shirts and sweatshirts. Unisex t-shirt – $15; Ladies fitted t-shirt – $20; Hoodie – $30. Ways to order:

1. Drop off completed order form (see ATTACHED below) and check (payable to Korematsu PTSA) at the office.

2. Order Online with a Credit Card at: www.korematsumiddleschool.org Click on the “DONATE” button. In the “NOTES TO SELLER” section, enter the size and the quantity.

All orders and payment must reach us by December 2.

JOIN THE YEARBOOK COMMITTEE: NEXT MEETING IS FRIDAY, NOV. 18, BOTH LUNCHTIMES, RM. A217

The Yearbook Committee is still looking for both student and parent members to help document and publish the 2016-17 Korematsu Yearbook. The committee meets on most Fridays at both lunchtimes in Rm. A217, both lunchtimes. However, for November/December, please note:

Friday, Nov. 18: Yearbook meeting in Rm. A217
Thanksgiving Week: No yearbook meeting
Friday Dec. 2: Yearbook meeting in Rm. A217
Any questions, please email Cecie Mendoza, who is the Korematsu Yearbook Advisor for the third year running at cecie_mendoza@yahoo.com .

Also, if you have any photos of school-related events, please email to korematsuyearbookphotos@gmail.com . Thank you!

 

SAVE THE DATE: ENGLISH NIGHT, NOV. 30, TIME TBD

Message from English Department:

At the Korematsu English Night, we will briefly cover the Common Core ELA standards and talk about how we are helping our students meet those standards in 7th and 8th grade. We will then turn our attention to a Common Core-aligned writing rubric and take a look at actual (anonymous) student writing samples. Parents will get a chance to practice scoring short essay responses with the rubric. Parents should leave at the end of the evening with a better understanding of how to help their students improve their writing!

 

HISTORY COMPETITION AT KOREMATSU: DEC. 12-16

The Korematsu History Department is making history! This year, for the very first time, Korematsu will join the National History Day Competition. The theme narrative is “Taking a Stand in History.” Korematsu students are invited to participate in the competition, which will be held school-wide from December 12 to 16. Projects can be turned in under the following formats:

Paper — individual effort

Documentary — individual or group effort (up to 5 students)

Website (Using Weebly) — individual or group effort (up to 5 students)

Performance — individual or group effort (up to 5 students)

Display Board— individual or group effort (up to 5 students)

Specific rules apply to each entry category. For more information on contest rules: http://www.nhdca.org/contest-rules . Here are examples of a scorecard: http://media.wix.com/ugd/189c6c_d7f533eeb77145a99f49693f6ba06f6b.pdf

A total of 10 projects, five from each grade level, will be selected to enter the county competition, to be held on February 25. Winning projects from the county level will then proceed to state and national competitions.

 

THANKSGIVING

NO SCHOOL ON THURSDAY, NOV. 24 AND 25 — HAPPY THANKSGIVING, EVERYONE!!!

Korematsu Middle School Multipurpose Room
7125 Donal Ave, El Cerrito
Thursday November 17th 6:30-8:30 PM

• Meet the Principal, Teachers and Students
• Learn about the WriterCoach program,
  Spanish Immersion, after school programs and
  more….
• Come at 6:10 to hear our amazing Jazz Ensemble
• Enjoy light refreshments

Korematsu Information Night Flyer

NO SCHOOL ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11, VETERANS DAY
See everyone on Monday, November 14!

TRAFFIC REMINDERS FOR EVERYONE’S SAFETY
Please drive around the school in a clockwise direction, so that you are already on the school side of the road when you get there. This traffic direction is assigned by the city. If driving down Donal, proceed around the corner to Norvell.

Please drop and pick up students in the white pick up/drop off zones on the sides of the school on Norvell and Lawrence. Pull all the way forward to relieve congestion in the intersections.

Please be considerate of the neighbors and refrain from dropping students off in front of houses or on the wrong side of the street.

Please refrain from dropping and picking up students directly in front of the school on Donal Avenue, which is used by AC Transit and other buses.

Please move through each intersection very carefully! There will be students walking and biking to school, parents arriving for meetings and volunteer work, and neighbors out to walk the dog or head to work.

If you are parking to come into the school, please do not park in loading zones or block neighbors’ driveways.
Respect the neighborhood. Remind students who are walking or biking to stay on public property like sidewalks and to cross streets

carefully. Let’s raise good citizens and model good behavior to our children.

NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY
The faculty council has completed their Honor Society admission decisions. Congratulations to the new members! Students should pick up their decision letters in the library beginning on Wednesday, Nov. 9. Please read the letters carefully. If students are admitted, they are required to return a letter of acceptance signed by the student and a parent or guardian, and also sign up for a Remind.com group. These are due by Tuesday, Nov. 15. Please contact Ms. Bogie in the library at abogie@wccusd.net or (510) 231-1449 ext. 29314 with questions.

50 IN 50
Please help us reach our goal of $50,000 in 50 school days! All donations will support programs to help our Korematsu students. Every donation is greatly appreciated, so please donate now! To learn more see our flyer.

YEARBOOK COMMITTEE: THURSDAY, NOV. 11, BOTH LUNCHTIMES
The Yearbook Committee is still looking for both student and parent members to help document and publish the 2016-17 Korematsu Yearbook. The committee meets on most Fridays at both lunchtimes in Rm. A217, both lunchtimes. However, for November/December, please note:

• Thursday, Nov. 10, instead of Friday, Nov. 11 (no school on Veteran’s Day): Yearbook meeting in Rm. A217
• Friday, Nov. 18: Yearbook meeting in Rm. A217
  Thanksgiving Week: No Yearbook Meeting
• Friday Dec. 2: Yearbook meeting in Rm. A217
• Any questions, please email Cecie Mendoza, who is the Korematsu Yearbook Advisor for the third year running at cecie_mendoza@yahoo.com .

Also, if you have any photos of school-related events, please email to korematsuyearbookphotos@gmail.com . Thank you!

ELEVATION 66 FUNDRAISER, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15
Dine at Elevation 66 in El Cerrito on November 15, mention Korematsu Middle School, and a percentage of your bill will go to Korematsu. Elevation 66, at 10082 San Pablo Ave, El Cerrito, is a local neighborhood nook offering seasonal, gourmet sandwiches, & mains, as well as house & local brews.

SHOP AT JENNY K & SUPPORT KOREMATSU MIDDLE SCHOOL: NOVEMBER 13 TO 18
Get an early start on the holidays by shopping at Jenny K! And Jenny K will donate 20% of your purchase total toward Korematsu PTSA, which provides funds for math intervention, enrichment, and tutoring; extended library hours; teacher grants; and more.

WHEN: ALL WEEK from Sunday, November 13th (9am to 4pm) through Friday, November 18th (9am to 9pm)

WHERE: Jenny K, 6921 Stockton Avenue, El Cerrito. http://jennyk.com/ phone: 510-528-5350

This year, Jenny K will support multiple schools during this time. At the point of sale, ballots will be available for you to indicate your school preference to receive the 20% donation.

Not only will you support Korematsu Middle School, but you’ll support local business, too!

Come to the Fundraiser Mixer on Friday evening, November 18th, 6pm to 9pm. Shop at Jenny K and enjoy free finger food and water, and discounted wine and beer at Well Grounded Tea & Coffee Bar next door.

Meet other parents from our local schools: share your experiences at Korematsu with them.

See you there!!

Korematsu PTSA thanks you, Jenny K!!!

KOREMATSU INFO NIGHT: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17, MULTIPURPOSE ROOM, 6:30 PM

Please spread the word that Korematsu will hold an info night for new/prospective families on Thursday, November 17.

Prospective students and their parents will learn about course offerings, after school program, PTSA events and programs, as well as hear one of the school bands play.

Want to help welcome new/prospective families to KMS? Please consider donating items for refreshments at KMS Info Night on 11/17. You can find a sign up sheet here. If you will not be attending Info Night, you can leave contributions in the staff lounge on the shelf marked “Info Night”, or contact me and I’ll pick it up from you (alonnilan@gmail.com). Thanks for considering donating to the next generation of Korematsu families!

TEACHER LUNCHEON: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18, A220
Thanksgiving will soon be upon us, and in the spirit of gratitude and appreciation for our staff’s dedication, the PTSA would like to offer a November luncheon that’s Thanksgiving-themed. Please consider contributing any Thanksgiving favorites or Fall comfort food to the luncheon. Please sign up here.

We also need helping hands to set up, re-stock, and break down. Scroll down the sign up sheet to sign up to volunteer on the day of the luncheon. Please email our Teacher Luncheon Coordinator Astrid Broberg at liissaUSA@aol.com if you have any questions.

SAVE THE DATE: ENGLISH NIGHT, NOV. 30, TIME TBD
Message from English Department:

At the Korematsu English Night, we will briefly cover the Common Core ELA standards and talk about how we are helping our students meet those standards in 7th and 8th grade. We will then turn our attention to a Common Core-aligned writing rubric and take a look at actual (anonymous) student writing samples. Parents will get a chance to practice scoring short essay responses with the rubric. Parents should leave at the end of the evening with a better understanding of how to help their students improve their writing!

WCCUSD COMMUNITY GATHERINGS: PARENTS WELCOME
Our district is holding WCCUSD Community Gatherings: A Series of Critical Conversations About Our Students and Schools over the next few months, starting November 15th. Details on time and place to be announced shortly. If you are interested in attending, please email Korematsu Community Worker Tanise Smith at tanise.smith@wccusd.net

Date: November 15, 2016
Topic: African American Student Achievement: Discussion, Data, and Current Program

Date: November 29, 2016
Topic: LCAP Townhall Meeting (English/Spanish)

Date: December 14, 2016
Topic: English Learners, LTELs, Discussion, Data, and Current Programs

Date: January 11, 2017
Topic: LCAP Townhall Meeting
(English\Spanish)

Date: February 28, 2017
Topic: Personalized Learning: Our Current Status and Where We Want to Go!

ELECTION RESULTS
MEASURE T PASSED WITH A SOLID 74.85% YES VOTE

This is a small, but very important funding stream for our schools.

THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!

PROP 55 PASSED WITH a 62% YES VOTE!

Welcome new West Contra Costa County School Board Members

• Mister Phillips 23.3%
• Tom Panas 19.9%
• Contra Costa Board of Ed
• Fatima S. Alleyne 43.3%

COOKIE DOUGH UPDATE: POSSIBLE PICK UP THIS FRIDAY
If you ordered cookie dough BE PREPARED to pick up after school Friday from the office. No cookie dough can be stored! Thank you for supporting this delectable fundraiser!

WE ARE SUPPORTING MEASURE T! JOIN US!
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.

WE ARE SUPPORTING PROP 55! JOIN US!
Korematsu PTSA voted, along with the California State PTA, to support statewide Proposition 55 in November! This measure renews statewide support for our schools by extending income tax increases on high-income taxpayers through 2030!

Want to learn more about the campaign? Check out their website, with scores of endorsements here!

50 IN 50
Please help us reach our goal of $50,000 in 50 school days! All donations will support programs to help our Korematsu students. Every donation is greatly appreciated, so please donate now! To learn more see our flyer.

CALLING PHOTOGRAPHERS, GRAPHIC ARTISTS, WRITERS, AND OTHER CREATIVE FOLKS: YEARBOOK COMMITTEE NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER MEETING DAYS
The Yearbook Committee is still looking for both student and parent members to help document and publish the 2016-17 Korematsu Yearbook. The committee meets on most Fridays at both lunchtimes in Rm. A217, both lunchtimes. However, for November/December, please note:

• Friday, Nov. 4: No Yearbook meeting
• Thursday, Nov. 10, instead of Friday, Nov. 11 (no school on Veteran’s Day): Yearbook meeting in Rm. A217
• Friday, Nov. 18: Yearbook meeting in Rm. A217
• Thanksgiving Week: No Yearbook Meeting
• Friday Dec. 2: Yearbook meeting in Rm. A217

Any questions, please email Cecie Mendoza, who is the Korematsu Yearbook Advisor for the third year running at cecie_mendoza@yahoo.com .

Also, if you have any photos of school-related events, please email to korematsuyearbookphotos@gmail.com . Thank you!

SAVE THE DATE: ELEVATION 66 FUNDRAISER, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15
Dine at Elevation 66 in El Cerrito on November 15, mention Korematsu Middle School, and a percentage of your bill will go to Korematsu. Elevation 66, at 10082 San Pablo Ave, El Cerrito, is a local neighborhood nook offering seasonal, gourmet sandwiches, & mains, as well as house & local brews.

SHOP AT JENNY K & SUPPORT KOREMATSU MIDDLE SCHOOL: NOVEMBER 13 TO 18
Get an early start on the holidays by shopping at Jenny K! And Jenny K will donate 20% of your purchase total toward Korematsu PTSA, which provides funds for math intervention, enrichment, and tutoring; extended library hours; teacher grants; and more.

WHEN: ALL WEEK from Sunday, November 13th (9am to 4pm) through Friday, November 18th (9am to 9pm)

WHERE: Jenny K, 6921 Stockton Avenue, El Cerrito. http://jennyk.com/ phone: 510-528-5350

This year, Jenny K will support multiple schools during this time. At the point of sale, ballots will be available for you to indicate your school preference to receive the 20% donation.

Not only will you support Korematsu Middle School, but you’ll support local business, too!

Come to the Fundraiser Mixer on Friday evening, November 18th, 6pm to 9pm. Shop at Jenny K and enjoy free finger food and water, and discounted wine and beer at Well Grounded Tea & Coffee Bar next door.

Meet other parents from our local schools: share your experiences at Korematsu with them.

See you there!!

Korematsu PTSA thanks you, Jenny K!!!

KOREMATSU INFO NIGHT: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17, MULTIPURPOSE ROOM, 6:30 PM
Please spread the word that Korematsu will hold an info night for new/prospective families on Thursday, November 17.

Prospective students and their parents will learn about course offerings, after school program, PTSA events and programs, as well as hear one of the school bands play.

Want to help welcome new/prospective families to KMS? Please consider donating items for refreshments at KMS Info Night on 11/17. You can find a sign up sheet here. If you will not be attending Info Night, you can leave contributions in the staff lounge on the shelf marked “Info Night”, or contact me and I’ll pick it up from you (alonnilan@gmail.com). Thanks for considering donating to the next generation of Korematsu families!

TEACHER LUNCHEON: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18, A220
Thanksgiving will soon be upon us, and in the spirit of gratitude and appreciation for our staff’s dedication, the PTSA would like to offer a November luncheon that’s Thanksgiving-themed. Please consider contributing any Thanksgiving favorites or Fall comfort food to the luncheon. Please sign up here.

We also need helping hands to set up, re-stock, and break down. Scroll down the sign up sheet to sign up to volunteer on the day of the luncheon. Please email our Teacher Luncheon Coordinator Astrid Broberg at liissaUSA@aol.com if you have any questions.

FIRST-EVER HISTORY COMPETITION AT KOREMATSU: DECEMBER 12-16
The Korematsu History Department is making history! This year, for the very first time, Korematsu will join the National History Day Competition. The theme narrative is “Taking a Stand in History.” Korematsu students are invited to participate in the competition, which will be held school-wide from December 12 to 16. Projects can be turned in under the following formats:

• Paper — individual effort
• Documentary — individual or group effort (up to 5 students)
• Website (Using Weebly) — individual or group effort (up to 5 students)
• Performance — individual or group effort (up to 5 students)
• Display Board— individual or group effort (up to 5 students)

Specific rules apply to each entry category. For more information on contest rules: http://www.nhdca.org/contest-rules . Here are examples of a scorecard: http://media.wix.com/ugd/189c6c_d7f533eeb77145a99f49693f6ba06f6b.pdf

A total of 10 projects, five from each grade level, will be selected to enter the county competition, to be held on February 25. Winning projects from the county level will then proceed to state and national competitions.

WCCUSD COMMUNITY GATHERINGS: PARENTS WELCOME
Our district is holding WCCUSD Community Gatherings: A Series of Critical Conversations About Our Students and Schools over the next few months, starting November 15th. Details on time and place to be announced shortly. If you are interested in attending, please email Korematsu Community Worker Tanise Smith at tanise.smith@wccusd.net

Date: November 15, 2016
Topic: African American Student Achievement: Discussion, Data, and Current Program

Date: November 29, 2016
Topic: LCAP Townhall Meeting (English/Spanish)

Date: December 14, 2016
Topic: English Learners, LTELs, Discussion, Data, and Current Programs

Date: January 11, 2017
Topic: LCAP Townhall Meeting
(English\Spanish)

Date: February 28, 2017
Topic: Personalized Learning: Our Current Status and Where We Want to Go!

SAVE THE DATE

• ENGLISH NIGHT, NOVEMBER 30, 2016

MONDAY, OCT. 31, IS MINIMUM DAY

Happy Halloween! Students may wear Halloween costumes to school, but strictly no masks or weapons. Please note that this is a minimum day for K-8 in our district.

 

FRIGHT FEST: OCT. 27 TO OCT. 31

Our students will get their dose of ghoulish fun, sponsored and funded by the PTSA, over the next few days:

Today — Haunted Cookie House Decoration

Friday — Mummy Wrapping Race

Monday — Halloween Costume Contest and “How Many Candy Pieces in a Jar” Contest

All activities will take place during 7th and 8th grade lunchtimes at the top level of the amphitheater (outside Building A next to the upper parking lot). In the chance of rain, activities will move to the multipurpose room.

To volunteer, please sign up here:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1yP7VW-MH8Go9MCBK5S_uCg6kFo3xf0hWQPiK1x_vQi8/edit#gid=0

 

50 in 50
Please help us reach our goal of $50,000 in 50 school days! Donations of any amount are gratefully accepted. Thank you to everyone who has already donated! We will celebrate with an ice cream party for our students once 50% of our families have contributed, so please donate now! To learn more, see our flyer.

SUPPORT MR. VEDDER’S CLASS PROJECT

“EXAMINING IDENTITY AND SEEING THE WORLD THROUGH DIFFERENT LENSES”

8th grade English teacher Mr. Vedder needs copies of two graphic novels — “March: Book One” and “Beyond Magenta” — for classroom use to support his first unit of 2017, which is on identity. Through these graphic novels, students will explore the concept of identity and contemplate different lenses in viewing the world.

To find out more about Mr. Vedder’s project, please go to MrVedderDonorsChoose , where parents may also make a direct donation towards the purchase of the books.
PTSA ASSOCIATION MEETING

PRESENTATION:

“PARENTS, STRESS, AND THE TEENAGE BRAIN,”

BAND PARENTS MEETING: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1

The PTSA will meet at 7 PM in the multipurpose room. After covering PTSA business (including acknowledgments for volunteer efforts), academic coach and family therapist Pat LaDouceur, Ph.D, will present a talk on “Parents, Stress, and the Teenage Brain: What Every Mom and Dad Needs to Know to Help Their Student Succeed with Ease in School and in Life.” Agenda is attached.

Preceding the PTSA meeting is the Band Parents meeting in the band room, starting at 6 PM.

Meeting Agenda

WE ARE SUPPORTING MEASURE T! JOIN US!

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.

DECORATING FOR THE ELECTION?
MEASURE T YARD SIGNS AVAILABLE HERE!

CLICK ON THIS LINK TO GET A YARD SIGN!

COMPLETE THE FORM AND ONE WILL BE DELIVERED TO YOUR HOUSE!

THANK YOU FOR YOUR VISIBLE SUPPORT! IT IS IMPORTANT!

WE ARE SUPPORTING PROP 55! JOIN US!

Korematsu PTSA voted, along with the California State PTA, to support statewide Proposition 55 in November! This measure renews statewide support for our schools by extending income tax increases on high-income taxpayers through 2030!

Want to learn more about the campaign? Check out their website, with scores of endorsements here!
SAVE THE DATE: ELEVATION 66 FUNDRAISER, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15

Dine at Elevation 66 in El Cerrito on November 15, mention Korematsu Middle School, and a percentage of your bill will go to Korematsu. Elevation 66, at 10082 San Pablo Ave, El Cerrito, is a local neighborhood nook offering seasonal, gourmet sandwiches, & mains, as well as house & local brews.
FIRST-EVER HISTORY COMPETITION AT KOREMATSU: DECEMBER 12-16

The Korematsu History Department is making history! This year, for the very first time, Korematsu will join the National History Day Competition. The theme narrative is “Taking a Stand in History.” Korematsu students are invited to participate in the competition, which will be held school-wide from December 12 to 16. Projects can be turned in under the following formats:

Paper — individual effort

Documentary — individual or group effort (up to 5 students)

Website (Using Weebly) — individual or group effort (up to 5 students)

Performance — individual or group effort (up to 5 students)

Display Board— individual or group effort (up to 5 students)

Specific rules apply to each entry category. For more information on contest rules: http://www.nhdca.org/contest-rules . Here are examples of a scorecard: http://media.wix.com/ugd/189c6c_d7f533eeb77145a99f49693f6ba06f6b.pdf

A total of 10 projects, five from each grade level, will be selected to enter the county competition, to be held on February 25. Winning projects from the county level will then proceed to state and national competitions.
SPREAD THE WORD: KOREMATSU INFO NIGHT, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17

Prospective students and their parents are invited to the Korematsu Info Night, which will take place on Thursday, November 17, at 6:30 PM, in the multipurpose room. They will learn about course offerings, after school program, PTSA events and programs, as well as hear one of the school bands play.

NOVEMBER TEACHER LUNCHEON, NOVEMBER 18

JENNY K FUNDRAISER, NOVEMBER 12 TO 18

LUNCHTIME COLLEGE AND CAREER CHAT SERIES: NOT TO BE MISSED!
Our Lunchtime College and Career Chat Series, in conjunction with College Week, continues today, Thursday, Oct. 20, and tomorrow, Friday, Oct. 21.

Students are welcome to hear the talk during 7th and 8th grade lunchtimes. There will be handouts and posters around the topic of “Think College.” Also, students who sign in at the talk will get a chance to win a surprise raffle prize.

Thursday, Oct. 20

Panel: Turning Your Passion into a Profession. RM. A 210.

Love Animals? Hear how a human dentist and an apprentice turned “dog whisperer” got started as pet dentists.

Love Sports? Hear how a consummate athlete channels her passion for sports into collegiate-level sports coaching.

Friday, Oct. 21

Panel I: Careers in High Tech Industry. ROOM A 210.

Chat with techies from Google, Pixar and elsewhere about careers in the high tech industry. RM. A 210.

Panel II: Career Shifts. ROOM A203.

Love Caring for People? Hear from a former personal trainer who made a mid-career switch to nursing and is loving every moment of it.

Love Working with Controls? Hear from a PG&E Metering Specialist who previously worked for the US Navy supervising the operations and maintenance of a submarine nuclear propulsion plant.

 $50,000 IN 50 SCHOOL DAYS
Please help us reach our goal of $50,000 in 50 school days! Donations of any amount are gratefully accepted. Thank you to everyone who has already donated! We will celebrate with an ice cream party for our students once 50% of our families have contributed, so please donate now! To learn more see our flyer.

SCORE GREAT DEALS AND DO GOOD: YARD SALE @ KOREMATSU, SATURDAY, OCT. 22, 9-4 PM
DROP OFF TODAY 5-8 p.m.!!!!

We have such a wonderful array of treasures for you to choose from. Come shop this Saturday and help us raise much-needed funds.

Final drop off times for donations are:  Thursday, October 20, 5-8 PM; and Friday, October 21, 5-9 PM at Parent’s Room in Building A, right across the main Korematsu office.

We need volunteers!!! There will be pizza and beverages for volunteers who come to our work party on Friday, Oct. 21, 5-9 PM (pizza at 7:30 PM). We also need volunteers to work shifts on Saturday, Oct. 22.

Please sign up HERE. Any questions, contact Lisa at 510-750-8163 or lmcdbj@gmail.com .

 

COOKIE DOUGH FUNDRAISER IS HAPPENING NOW UNTIL TO MONDAY, OCTOBER 24
Message from VP Fundraising, Negar Souza:

Dear Korematsu families,

We are excited to launch our cookie dough fundraiser! This is a wonderful event because not only does the school make money to support our educational programs but YOU get special treats too!

Your student will get a packet to take home TODAY and it will include the catalog, order form and envelope to return the money. If your student did not get one, please ask for one in the office or email the contact listed at the end of this email.

We ask all families commit to selling 10 or more items. If you sell 10 items you get one free to keep!

ALL order forms & money are due in the office to Miss Christie by October 24 (and NO later!) All goods will be delivered by November 4 ready for you to pick up at school! (FYI- If payment is not received by the October 24 deadline the order will not be placed).

Please mark these dates on your calendar and help us reach our goal! Korematsu is an incredible school but fundraisers like this allow us to fund programs beyond the district’s ability.

Please help, enjoy and have fun! For any questions please contact Negar

Souza at thesouzafamily@comcast.net . Thank you in advance!

 

KOREMATSU HISTORY NIGHT: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25*, MULTIPURPOSE ROOM
NOTE THE DATE CHANGE!!!

The History department would like to invite parents to History Night on October 25, 6 to 7 PM. The department will be going over what they are currently doing and their goals. Some class projects will also be showcased. *Note the change in date.

HALLOWEEN CONCERT: WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26, MULTIPURPOSE ROOM
The Korematsu Music Program would like to invite you to the Band and Orchestra program’s Halloween Concert, Wed., Oct 26, at 7pm in the MPR. Support the program and enjoy some wonderful music in this first performance of the year! The concert is free; treats are available for purchase.

FRIGHT FEST: THURSDAY, OCT. 27, FRIDAY, OCT. 28 & MONDAY, OCT. 31, RM. A210
Let’s dish out some ghoulish fun this Halloween season. From Thursday, Oct. 27 to Monday, Oct. 31, the PTSA is organizing Halloween-related activities — Haunted House Cookie Decorating, Mummy-Wrapping Race, Costume Fashion Show and maybe more — during both 7th and 8th grade lunchtimes. We need volunteers to make this happen! Please sign up HERE .

HALLOWEEN DANCE: THURSDAY, OCT. 27, 2:30-4 PM, MULTIPURPOSE ROOM
Tickets will be on sale at lunchtime from Oct. 24 to Oct. 27. Students must have school ID/lanyard & signed permission slip to purchase ticket.

Grab your tickets ASAP as ticket prices go up each day: Mon, Oct.24 – $2.50; Tuesday, Oct. 25 – $3; Wednesday, Oct. 26 – 3.50; Thursday, Oct. 27 – $4; and $5 at the door if you buy after school the day of the dance.

Parent Chaperones are invited! Please email Ms. Renee at crenee@wccusd.net. From Ms. Renee: “We could use help watching over the backpack pile and dispersing the snacks and beverages. We would love to be able to have contributions of small bottled water, juice bags, store-bought brownies, & Halloween candy.”

SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATE FORUM:
MONDAY, OCT. 24, 6:30 PM, MULTIPURPOSE ROOM
The final of the three candidates forum jointly organized by WCCUSD and League of Women Voters will be held on Monday, Oct. 24, in the Korematsu Multipurpose Room at 6:30 PM.

FINAL PTA SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATE FORUM
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2016 8:45 – 10:15 a.m.

HELMS MIDDLE SCHOOL

HABRA TRADUCCION EN ESPANOL!

The final Bayside Council of PTA’s Candidate Forum will be held on Wednesday, October 26th 8:45 a.m. – 10:30 a.m at Helms Middle School. Habra traduccion en Espanol! SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION HERE: 4westcounty@gmail.com
PTSA ASSOCIATION MEETING & BAND PARENTS MEETING

NOV. 1, MULTIPURPOSE ROOM

The PTSA will meet at 7 PM in the Multipurpose Room. After covering PTSA business, academic coach and family therapist Pat LaDouceur, Ph.D, will present a talk on “Parents, Stress, and the Teenage Brain: What Every Mom and Dad Needs to Know to Help Their Student Succeed with Ease in School and in Life.” See agenda here.

Band Parents Meeting will commence at 6 PM in the band room.

FREE ON-CAMPUS AFTER SCHOOL MATH TUTORING IS HAPPENING NOW
The sessions for all grades will 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.

MATH CLUB
Every Wednesday, both lunchtimes, in Room A201. Math Club is a lunchtime activity where students get help with homework, play games and solve puzzles, and earn extra credit and have fun with math!

SAVE THE DATE

• Korematsu Info Night — November 17
• November Teacher Luncheon — November 18
• Jenny K Fundraiser — November 12 to 18

WEAR IT LOUD, WEAR IT PROUD: ORDER NEW KOREMATSU SPIRITWEAR NOW

Support Korematsu by wearing our new cool spirit wear. It has our motto: Believe It! Achieve It! The Japanese script in the background stands for one of the basic founding thoughts of Judo and says, “Mutual Welfare and Benefit.” Deadline for order is extended to Monday, October 17.

Shown above is the Unisex t-shirt. We carry Adult-Sized t-shirts in Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large. For each X after XL, please add $2. Prices: Unisex t-shirt–$15. Ladies fitted t-shirt–$20. Hoodie–$30. For more details, click HERE.

Ways to order:

1. Order online with a credit card by clicking HERE. Enter the size and the quantity in the instructions/comments section of the page.
2. Email to korematsuptsa@gmail.com and leave a check (write spirit wear on the memo line) at the office.
3. Drop off completed order form and check (payable to Korematsu PTSA) at the office.

Availability will be guaranteed only for orders with payment.

KOREMATSU CELEBRATES COLLEGE AND CAREER WEEK OCTOBER 17 TO 21

It’s never too early to start planning for college and career. From October 17 to 21, colleges will take centerstage at Korematsu as teachers and staff don their college spirit wear. PTSA is sponsoring a series of fun and informative lunchtime talks on college pathways by a college counselor and different career possibilities — high tech jobs, nursing, pet services, education, etc by experienced professionals.

EIGHTH GRADERS TO SIT FOR PSAT 8/9: OCTOBER 19

8th graders will take the PSAT 8/9 in the morning of October 19, from 8:10 to 11:15 AM. PSAT 8/9 is a standardized test that measures students’ college and career readiness as they enter high school. See it as warm-up to the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) that they take at 10th grade and beyond, which is a precursor to the SAT, a college-entrance exam that measures student aptitude in reading, writing and math. There is no cost to take the test at Korematsu. For more information, go to https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/psat-8-9

ANNUAL GIVING

The Korematsu PTSA is excited to launch “50 in 50,” our annual giving campaign, where we will try and raise $50,000 in 50 school days! Between now and December 16, 2016, please donate to enable our school to offer the best possible programs for our students.

Learn more about what your donation to our PTSA supports.

Flyers with more details are going home with your student today, so please look for them. Donations of any amount are gratefully accepted. We will celebrate with an ice cream party for our students when 50% of our families have contributed to the “50 in 50” campaign. Please give now to help us reach our goal!

COOKIE DOUGH FUNDRAISER: NOW TO OCTOBER 24

Message from VP Fundraising, Negar Souza:

Dear Korematsu families,

We are excited to launch our cookie dough fundraiser! This is a wonderful event because not only does the school make money to support our educational programs but YOU get special treats too!

Your student will get a packet to take home TODAY and it will include the catalog, order form and envelope to return the money. If your student did not get one, please ask for one in the office or email the contact listed at the end of this email.

We ask all families commit to selling 10 or more items. If you sell 10 items you get one free to keep!

ALL order forms & money are due in the office to Miss Christie by October 24 (and NO later!) All goods will be delivered by November 4 ready for you to pick up at school! (FYI- If payment is not received by the October 24 deadline the order will not be placed).

Please mark these dates on your calendar and help us reach our goal! Korematsu is an incredible school but fundraisers like this allow us to fund programs beyond the districts ability.

Please help, enjoy and have fun! For any questions please contact Negar Souza at thesouzafamily@comcast.net . Thank you in advance!

KOREMATSU BENEFIT YARD SALE, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 9-4 PM

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

The final drop-off times are Thursday, October 20, 6-8 PM and Friday, October 21, 5-9 PM.

We need many volunteers to sort out items on Friday, Oct. 21, 5-9 PM & on Saturday, Oct. 22, to work shifts during the sale itself. Please sign up here:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1S2ZOshp9FGqxWCUW3NyfcOh8VVMMpEDNDflKyH-R2W0/edit#gid=0

Contact Lisa at 510-750-8163 or lmcdbj@gmail.com .

KOREMATSU MIDDLE SCHOOL is better…with YOU!

With your PTSA membership, all things are possible! Thank you to everyone who has joined PTSA! We have 185 members and counting! It’s not too late to join – go to https://korematsumiddleschool.org/join/ and scroll down to the bottom of the page to see different ways to join.

Membership cards for everyone who joined in August and September have been sent via email. If you did not get your card, or there was a typo that you want fixed, please email alonnilan@gmail.com.

With your PTSA membership:

• You show your children that school matters, and that you are invested in their success.
• You demonstrate to your child that success in school is the pathway to college, a career and a productive life!
• You partner with the principal, teachers and staff to make your child’s school safe, welcoming, a hub of learning, and a fun place to be.
• You share in campus events and experiences that make your child’s school days more memorable!
• You connect with other parents, and become part California State PTA and National PTA, the largest and most powerful children’s advocacy organization in the country.
• You help make sure parents and family members voices are heard when important decisions that affect your school are made.

Special deals just for PTA members can be found at http://capta.org/join/member-perks/

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR FRIGHT FEST: OCTOBER 27, 28, AND 31

We need volunteers to help inject some ghoulish fun into Korematsu this Halloween season.

Interested in decorating a haunted cookie house? We need help on Thursday, Oct. 27 — 11 AM – 12:30 PM.

Interested in Mummy Wrapping Contest? We need help on Friday, Oct. 28, from 11 AM to 12:30 PM.

Interested in Costume Fashion Show and/or Pumpkin Weight Guessing? We need help on Monday, Oct. 31, from 10:30 – 11:55 AM.

If you can help on any of these days, please email korematsuptsa@gmail.com.

REMINDER: NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY APPLICATION FORMS DUE OCTOBER 20

The Fred T. Korematsu Middle School National Junior Honor Society is now accepting applications for membership. All 8th graders who earned a 3.0 average or higher for at least one semester of 7th grade can apply. Members of the NJHS are required to attend one lunch meeting per month and complete two group service projects. Find application forms here KorematsuMiddleNJHS.weebly.com , due October 20.

WE ARE SUPPORTING MEASURE T! JOIN US!

We 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!

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!

SAVE THE DATE: PTSA ASSOCIATION MEETING & BAND PARENTS MEETING, NOVEMBER 1

The PTSA will meet at 7 PM in the multipurpose room. After covering PTSA business, academic coach and family therapist Pat LaDouceur, Ph.D, will present a talk on “Parents, Stress, and the Teenage Brain: What Every Mom and Dad Needs to Know to Help Their Student Succeed with Ease in School and in Life.”

PARENTS AS PARTNERS AND LEADERS CONFERENCE, OCTOBER 15

Hosted by the WCCUSD, the “Parents as Partners and Leaders Conference” is lined up for Saturday, Oct. 15, 2016, from 9 AM to 2:30 PM at DeJean Middle School, 3400 Macdonald Ave., in Richmond.

Marking its 11th year, the Parents as Partners conference provides a wide array of interactive, engaging workshops aimed at helping parents support their child’s successful educational pursuits. According to conference organizers, a “Community Resource Fair” and more than 20 workshops will be available to local parents as part of the overall event.

To register for the free conference, click HERE or call the WCCUSD’s Community Engagement Department at 510-307-4526. Childcare, breakfast, snacks and translation services will be provided to attendees.

ED FUND ANNUAL BREAKFAST

The Ed Fund’s Making the Change that Matters Annual Breakfast is on Tuesday, November 1 from 7:30-8:30am at the Richmond Country Club at 1 Markovich Lane in Richmond. Learn more about the importance and the impact of the work that the Ed Fund has done together with its collaborative partners to aid students with college readiness, access, and completion at this free, one-hour breakfast. To confirm your attendance, register at https://wwwedfundbreakfast.eventbrite.com by October 31.

NO SCHOOL ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 10 
There will be no school on Monday, October 10th for Staff Development Day.  See you on Tuesday.

EAT AT ZACHARY’S TODAY, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6, 11 AM to 9:30 PM
Ready to do good and get a mid-week break from cooking? Dine at Zachary’s on Solano Ave in Berkeley today,Thursday, October 6. Print the attached flyer and present it at time of payment and Zachary’s will donate 15% of your bill to Korematsu PTSA. OR simply mention Korematsu when paying. Click on this link for the Flyer!!

FRIGHT WRITE STORY AND ART CONTEST
DEADLINE EXTENDED TO OCTOBER 11
Unleash your creative spirit! All students are invited to participate in “Fright Write,” an annual story, art, and comic strip contest sponsored by the PTSA. Submissions must be given to the office or English teacher by Tuesday, October 11 (new deadline). See more details in this flyer.

WEAR IT LOUD, WEAR IT PROUD: ORDER NEW KOREMATSU SPIRITWEAR NOW

Support Korematsu by wearing our new cool spirit wear. Grab yours now! See flyer here:

Ways to order:

1. Drop off completed order form and check (payable to Korematsu PTSA) at the office.
2. Mail completed order form and check (payable to Korematsu PTSA) to Korematsu PTSA, Korematsu Middle School, 7125 Donal Ave. El Cerrito, CA 94530Order
3. Online with a Credit Card at: www.korematsumiddleschool.org Click on the “DONATE” button. In the “NOTES TO SELLER” section, enter the size and the quantity.

YEARBOOK 2016-17 CLUB: FIRST MEETING ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7
The Yearbook Committee is looking for photographers, writers, graphic artists, or any enthusiastic or creative parent volunteers and students. The first meeting of the committee is Friday, October 7 at both lunch periods in room A217. Meetings will typically be every other Friday, at both lunch periods. See flyer here.

CULTIVATE A COLLEGE-GOING CULTURE:
COLLEGE AND CAREER WEEK AT KOREMATSU, OCTOBER 17 TO 21
It’s never too early to start planning for college and career. From October 17 to 21, colleges will take centerstage at Korematsu as teachers and staff don their college spiritwear. The PTSA will also organize a series of fun and informative lunchtime talks on career and college pathways by experienced professionals. More details to come!

8TH GRADERS will take PSAT 8/9, a precursor to the SAT, on Wednesday, October 19. The PSAT 8/9 includes 3 tests (Reading, Writing and Language, and Math) with multiple-choice questions. All students testing that day have been automatically registered. There is no cost to take the test.

KORE ULTIMATE DISC CLUB

Do you see those discs flying before and after school? Think it looks like fun? Join the amazing ultimate team or just stop by and check out a practice. This fun club sport meets two times a week. All you need is work out gear and a disc, and cleats if you have them. It’s not the official season yet, but there will be exciting scrimmages against other schools.

Practice is held: Tuesday ECHS Soccer Fields from 4:00pm – 6:00pm and Saturday ECHS Football Field from 10:00am – 1:00pm

For more details, contact Leandra Johnson ayeleandra@gmail.com or Beth Lewis lewisbeth3@gmail.com.

76’ERS FIRST MEETING ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, 7 PM
The first meeting of the 76ers this year will be at 7 pm, Friday Oct 7, in the Korematsu Multipurpose Room. There will be a few updates about the trip as well as a slide presentation focusing on Capitol Hill and the major monuments around Washington. For those already on the list, $400 is due at the meeting. Checks should be made payable to Black Diamond Travel. Parents who can’t make the meeting need to mail the check to Mr. Tim Shaw at 117 Lancaster Way, Vallejo, Ca 94591.