Author: portolanews

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.

GET PUBLISHED IN FRIGHT WRITE!

All Korematsu students are invited to participate in“Fright Write,” an annual story, art, and comic strip contest sponsored by the PTSA. Winning submissions will get published in this year’s Fright Write anthology. The contest ends on Friday, October 7 (send submissions to office or English teacher).

⧫ Simply participate and you will get a chance to win a Basket of Halloween Goodies

⧫ Get published and you will receive a copy of Fright Write and earn instant celebrity status.

Rules & Guidelines:

Each student may submit ONE original entry on a Halloween-related theme in EACH of the following categories.

Story/Poetry Category— Length: One-page MAX.Format: Typed on 8-1/2” x 11” paper, no smaller than 10 pt. font size.

Comics Category— Length: One-page MAX. Format: Must be on 8-1/2” x 11” paper, with original hand-drawn artwork in BLACK INK. NO pencils or computer-generated graphics.

Art Category — Materials/Media: Must be on 8-1/2” x 11” paper, with original hand-drawn artwork in BLACK INK. NO pencils or computer-generated graphics. Format:
a) Front cover: artwork must fill up a page of 8-1/2” x 11” and include the title “Fright Write 2015-16.” b) Back cover : artwork must fill up a page of 8-1/2” x 11”.

EXTENDED LIBRARY HOURS AT KOREMATSU LIBRARY!!!

Good news for students who need a quiet and safe place to read, write, or study after school. Funded by the PTSA, the Korematsu library hours are extended after school. On Monday and Thursday, it is open until 4:45 PM. (Note: After 4 PM, no new students can come, and if there are no students at 4 PM or if the last students leave before 4:45 PM, the library will close for the day.) On Wednesday and Friday, it will stay open until 3 PM. LibraryRATS will take place on Tuesday from 2:30 to 3:30 PM (register with Ms. Bogie). The number of students will be limited to 25. Students who are in after school program may come to the library with permission from program staff. No textbooks will be available for loan. Students must use their own copy of textbooks that they can keep in their lockers.

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.

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

It’s time to show you care about public education, which is still underfunded in California. Please donate to our Annual Giving Campaign 2016. Our goal is to raise $50,000 by December 16 to support programs that will help our students. 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. 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.

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

We 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 office. The next drop-off time is Thursday, September 29, 6-8 PM . Future drop-off times: 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 .

SAVE THE DATE: ZACHARY’S FUNDRAISER ON OCTOBER 6, 11 AM to 9:30 PM

Ready for a mid-week break from cooking? Dine at Zachary’s on Solano Ave in Berkeley on Thursday, October 6. Present flyer at time of payment and Zachary’s will donate 15% of your bill to Korematsu PTSA.

NEW SPIRIT WEAR: ORDER NOW

Show your school spirit by donning our t-shirts and hoodies. The deadline for orders is October 10.

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 94530
3. 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.

Spirit wear Order Form

NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY AT KOREMATSU

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.

UPDATE ON BASKETBALL

Basketball sign-ups and tryouts are coming soon! Save these dates:

• October 13 & 14 — Girls Basketball Sign-Ups
• October 17 to 20 — Girls Basketball Tryouts
• October 18 & 19 — Boys Basketball Sign-Ups
• October 31 to November 3 — Boys Basketball Tryouts

After School Expanded Learning Coordinator Darrell Cockerham will be coordinating sign-ups during lunchtime.
SCHOOL SITE COUNCIL ELECTION RESULTS

The new parent/community members of theSchool Site Council are — Lila Banuelos and Carolyn Day Flowers.

GET YOUR VOLUNTEER BADGE

To volunteer at schools, you require a volunteer badge. Take advantage of one of the remaining Saturday fingerprinting parties. No appointments are needed, but online applications must be completed BEFORE the date of the event. Click here: https://www.beamentor.org/linkpages/mentorasp/specialprojects/wccusd/Default.asp

Upcoming Fingerprinting Events:

• Saturday, October 1 – Lupine Hills Elementary – 1919 Lupine Rd. Hercules 94547 – MPR 9:00 AM -12:00 PM
• Saturday, October 22 – Lavonya DeJean Middle School – 3400 Macdonald Ave., Richmond 94805 – MPR 9:00 AM -12:00 PM

WCCUSD SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATE FORUM, MONDAY, OCTOBER 3, HARDING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AUDITORIUM, 7230 FAIRMOUNT AVE, EL CERRITO, 6:30 PM

This year, 40% of the seats on our school board will be new as Todd Groves and Randy Enos will not seek re-election. Who sits in those seats matters. The school board sets the tenor and tone of activities, sets the districts’s priorities. PTA can never endorse a candidate for office, but we can make them available to you. Please join us at this forum especially designed for parents and teachers!

WE WANT YOUR QUESTIONS! Please email us with the questions you want to ask the candidates! We’ll ask for you! email: 4westcounty@gmail.com

EL CERRITO JUNIOR MOUNTAIN BIKE TEAM

The El Cerrito Junior Mountain Bike Team is recruiting students in grades 6 to 8. Although interested students should know how to ride a bike; no off-road experience is necessary. Season starts on October 16, with a skills clinic.

Commitment entails Sunday morning team rides (9am – 1pm) from mid-October thru May, and Wednesday late afternoon practices from January – May. Fees are $120/year; scholarships and loaner bikes are available for motivated riders who need assistance. Riders are from El Cerrito and neighboring communities. The Junior Team is registered with the NorCal High School Racing League and insured through the National Interscholastic Cycling Association.

The Jr. Team was started 2 years ago as a way to give younger kids an avenue to explore an alternative, lifelong sport in a controlled environment, with the added benefit of feeding kids into the El Cerrito High school Team. Questions? Contact Cort Cooper at 510-521-1231 or Gary Hill at 510-681-9096.

 

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!