Why Creative Minds Academy is the right choice... Numerous VPK Graduates Have Tested Gifted We are a non-denominational private Christian school offering the best in academic excellence from 6 weeks to 12 years of age. We create an engaging, loving, challenging, and fun environment all while teaching about God and His love. Please stop by for a tour or call us at either one of our two locations.
Teaching Christian Principles and Morals
One of the few schools to offer Camera Access to view your child from a smart device
Specialty Rooms – Science / Art Room Computer / Library Room
KeyPad Locked Entry Fresh, Nutritious Meals Prepared Daily by our Chef
One of the few schools with a Pediatric Nurse onsite
Deerwood Park 10550 Deerwood Park Blvd South Suite 704 Jacksonville, FL 32256 904-379-8126 License #C04DU0959 Durbin Crossing 14985 Old St. Augustine Road Suite 120 Jacksonville, FL 32258 (Right off Phillips Highway and Old St. Augustine Road) 904-880-8588 License #CO4DU0960 creativemindsacademyfl.com
Psalm 127:3 Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord.
Creative Minds aCadeMy
PRESCHOOL
Give your child a head start on Kindergarten. Call us to learn more about our Discovery VPK program.
Page 2 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
10% OFF TUITION
Cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer is good for the 2015-2016 school year. Offer valid for New Enrollees Only. Offer does not apply to VPK and Aftercare. 10% discount applies to only one child per family.
Contents
Letter From The Editor
tidbits........................................................................................... 4 living well
Dear Readers,
W
e hope you had a memorable summer!
Community Profile: Volleyball is Big in Our Town!..................................... 6
Health & safety
In this month’s issue, we help you ease back in to the new school year with tools and tips including great Apps for your students to download (page 27), establishing a strong study routine at home (page 25), beating the lunch blues (page 26), helping your child adjust to school (page 29), and much more. The Duval County Public School’s Parent Academy is a fantastic resource for parents and students! The Parent Academy is courses offered free of charge in the areas of Student Achievement, Parenting & Advocacy and Personal & Individual Growth. You’ll find the Parent Academy course list on pages 11 – 22. You can register online for courses at duvalschools.org/Parent Academy. Jacksonville Juniors Volleyball Association is a non-profit that has served over 10,000 local youth since its inception in 1989 and helped over 200 attend college and earn scholarships. That is a significant impact on our community. Through their Raise the Nets campaign, featured on this month’s cover, JJVA will soon move to a new facility and expand their programs to meet the needs of more youth. Read more about the world’s 2nd most popular sport and the opportu-
August/September 2015
Study Finds Walking Improves Creativity.................................................. 7 Fun Facts About Teeth............................................................................ 7
Infant & Toddler Tips to Help Your Toddler Learn Language................................................ 9
special needs Scholarships Available for Kids In Need..................................................10 Special Needs Events...........................................................................10
nities JJVA offers on page 6. Join Jax4Kids at Riverside Arts Market’s Back To School Bash on Saturday, August 22nd from 10am – 4pm. The market will be filled with fun and entertainment for kids! Bring the kids to the Fan Zone to get “Crazy Hair” beginning at 10am before the Jaguars games on September 13th and 20th. On September 13th, we celebrate Grandparents and all they mean to us. Happy Grandparents Day! Until next month, Alison Peters-Carlson Editor
Follow us... Alison Peters-Carlson Editor....................................... editor@jax4kids.com Linda Bigbee Graphic Designer......................................linda@jax4kids.com Judi Fields Circulation Manager........................................judi@jax4kids.com Doug Berle Advertising Sales......................................... doug@jax4kids.com Beth Canonica Advertising Sales.................................... beth@jax4kids.com Donna Paunetto Advertising Sales.............................. donna@jax4kids.com Mary Gustafson Business Manager............................... mary@jax4kids.com
duval county public schools
Parent Academy Fall 2015 course catalog........................................12-20 Important Dates....................................................................................21 General Supply Lists.............................................................................21 Bus Information....................................................................................21
clay county school news
Oakleaf’s Derek Chipoletti Named Coach of the Year..............................23 Principal Changes for the Year...............................................................23 2015-2016 School Calendar................................................................23
st. johns county school news
New Julington Creek Elementary Principal Named.................................24 2015-2016 School Calendar................................................................24
BACK TO SCHOOL Establish a Strong Study Routine at Home.............................................25 Beat the Lunch Blues............................................................................26 Favorite Apps for Students....................................................................27 Tips to Help Be Your Best......................................................................27 Vision Screenings an Important Part of Back to School Prep...................28 Don’t Forget Your Child’s Yearly Physical Exam.......................................28 Help Your Children Adjust to School.......................................................29 How to Help Your Child Improve in School..............................................30 School Supply Shopping Tips................................................................30 Redo the Classroom, Don’t Break the Bank............................................31 Watch Out for Ear Infections..................................................................32 Get That Bike Ready for School.............................................................33 School Wins New Playground................................................................33
education
Monitoring the Media Diet.....................................................................34 Fourth Graders to Get Free Park Pass....................................................34 Check Out College Scorecard................................................................34 A Creative Curriculum with Heart...........................................................35 That’s My Job! Art Teacher...................................................................35
Teens
More Students Saving for College..........................................................36
Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2015. Reproduction of any artwork or copy prepared by Jax4Kids.com To Go is strictly prohibited without written consent of the publisher. We will not be responsible for any errors and/or omissions. The Publisher’s liability for error will not exceed the cost of space occupied by the error. Articles for publication are welcome and may be sent to editor@jax4kids.com. For more information concerning advertising, call 904-710-2020 or e-mail advertise@jax4kids.com.
Page 3 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
pets
How to Tell If Your Dog Loves You..........................................................37
Things to do
August and September Events.........................................................38-39
2015 BACK-TO-SCHOOL SALES TAX HOLIDAY
From August 7 through August 16, no Florida sales tax or local option tax will be collected on sales of clothing, footwear, and certain accessories selling for $100 or less per item, on certain school supplies selling for $15 or less per item, and on the first $750 of the sales price for computers and certain computer-related accessories when purchased for noncommercial home or personal use. Eligible purchases are:
• • •
Clothing, footwear, and certain accessories selling for $100 or less per item Certain school supplies selling for $15 or less per item Personal computers and certain computer-related accessories on the first $750 of the sales price, when purchased for noncommercial home or personal use
For a complete list of qualifying items, visit dor.myflorida.com
ANGEL SENSE
and Analytic Server via the web & mobile app. www.angelsense.com
•
FREE ELECTRONICS RECYCLING
•
Legie E-Scrap Recycling offers free electronics recycling including:
•
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Call (904) 551- 2369 Monday – Friday, 8am – 3:30pm. 8030 Philips Hwy Suite 12 Jacksonville, FL 32256 www.legieescraprecycling.com
8 TRICKS FOR REMOVING PERSPIRATION STAINS www.rd.com
• • The AngelSense GPS and voice monitoring solution was created for parents of children with special needs to monitor their child’s location and receive alerts on unexpected changes to their routine thru the Guardian GPS
Page 4 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
Computers, Laptops Servers, Server Racks Key Boards, Mice, Speakers, projectors LCD Monitors Printers, Fax Machine, Scanners Hard Drives Memory Chips CD’s, floppy drives Copy Machines, plotters Toner cartridges Cellular Phones Cords & cables Most Batteries Network Equipment Telecom Equipment, phones Stereo Equipment Medical Equipment - No BIO Hazards
Meat Tenderizer - Dampen the stain and sprinkle some meat tenderizer on it. Wash as usual. Aspirin - Crush two aspirins and mix the powder in 1/2 cup warm water. Soak the stained part of the garment in the solution for two to three hours. Dish soap – Mix one part dish soap with two parts hydrogen peroxide, then scrub the stain and let it sit for an hour.
•
•
Salt – Dissolve 4 tablespoons salt in 1 quart hot water. Sponge the garment with the solution until the stain disappears. Lemons – Scrub stain with a mixture or equal parts lemon juice and water. Vinegar – Pour vinegar directly onto stain and rub into the fabric before laundering. Baking soda – Pre-treat stain with a paste made of 4 tablespoons baking soda and ¼ cup warm water. For really bad stains, let the paste dry for two hours before laundering. Ammonia – For perspiration stains as well as blood and urine stains, dab the area with a half-strength solution of ammonia and water before laundering.
OP SAK BY LOKSAK LOKSAK makes an OP SAK (Odor Proof) perfect for toting dirty, smelly gym shoes. Campers may be familiar with these multi-tasking products. A 2-pack of 12x20 bags sell for $12.79. Smaller and larger sizes are available too.
SUPER FULL MOON A supermoon happens when there’s a Full Moon or New Moon at the same time as the Moon’s closest approach to the Earth. During a month, when the moon is closest to Earth it’s called perigee. The next supermoon will occur on Sunday, September 27, 2015 at 10:51 PM. www.timeanddate.com
LET’S CONNECT
CHILDREN’S ART CLASSES now in Jacksonville! This program of ART for your child was developed in the Southwest, and has taken Children’s Art to an entirely NEW level! Your child will learn and achieve, and will be given recognition for this achievement at his/her very own Annual Art Show! Registration is now open! Classes begin The week of September 14.
FALL 2015-2016 E OUS 22 H N g.
OPErday, Au m atu - 2p S
s) m 10a ocation hL (Bot
Classes will be taught and supervised by a certified Art Teacher with 25 years experience in this proven method of Studio Art Education. Students will work with pencil, charcoal, ink, printmaking, painting, design, water colors, cast paper, clay and much, much more! Art Classes are available to children ages 3 and up, and will meet once a week. Tuition is $79/month. Classes meet at: 8411 Baymeadows Way #2 Jacksonville, FL 32256 OPEN HOUSE
1406 Kingsley Ave Orange Park, FL 32073
Saturday, Aug. 22, 10am - 2pm
BOTH LOCATIONS
Don’t miss out on this opportunity! Give your child this gift of Art! Class size is limited, so register TODAY! Call for further information or visit us online at www.childrensartclasses.com to view details and print out your own REGISTRATION FORM. Upon registration, you will receive confirmation and registration packet.
BAYMEADOWS
ORANGE PARK
8411 Baymeadows Way #2 Jacksonville, FL 32256
1406 Kingsley Ave Orange Park, FL 32073
Barbara Gay 904.612.7557 Stephanie Larsen 904.962.4292
Barbara Gay Jessica Grotberg
Page 5 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
904.612.7557 904.729.6144
904.612.7557 www.childrensartclasses.com
Living well
Jacksonville Juniors Volleyball Association
Community Profile: Volleyball is Big in Our Town!
V
olleyball has become the second most popular sport in the world. On average, nearly 1 out of 8 people (800 million) on the planet play at least once a week. Over 46 million Americans play.
CLUB TEAM VOLLEYBALL – Three levels of winter/ spring team competition are offered for girls: Local, Regional, and National. We also offer a Boys’ Program that has two indoor seasons and two sand seasons. The Local Program is designed for players who wish to work on skill development and compete with a team at least once a month with no travel. Regional, National, and Boys’ programs have a higher level of competition and include extensive travel and competitive tournament opportunities for players. The National teams compete against top ranked programs across the country and often have several out-of-state tournaments as well as an opportunity to qualify for USAV National Championship. The Regional teams travel mostly in the Jacksonville has the 2nd largest club volleyball state of Florida and compete against regional organization in the State of Florida with 55 teams, competition. Tryouts are held for all divisions and 540 players, and 75 coaches. Mary Andrew teams are established based on the quality and (former head coach, Florida State College number of players trying out. See Section II for Jacksonville) is the current director and a more information. founding member of The Jacksonville Juniors Volleyball Association (JJVA). Coach Andrew is MINI CLUB – JJVA kicked off the first official Mini also the current Commissioner of the Florida Club program in the fall of 2013 for 10U, 11U, Region USAV. 12U & 14U players. These teams train and compete in the months of September and October JJVA is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. The against other Mini Club teams in nearby cities main focus of the organization is the development such as Tallahassee and Gainesville on either a of the sport and its players for the purpose of skill Saturday or Sunday. Tryouts for this program are development and lifetime enjoyment. Since its held in August. The program is designed to raise inception in 1989, JJVA has served more than the competitive level of younger players in the 10,000 volleyball players in Northeast Florida. North Florida area. More than 200 female players and 6 male players have gone on to play at the college level, many of LESSONS – Individual and small group (2-6 them earning scholarships. players) lessons are offered at an hourly rate. Veteran coaches at JJVA schedule these lessons JJVA’s enrollment has increased annually by more during the week and on the weekend as gym than 30%. Having outgrown their current facility, schedule permits. The purpose of the lessons is JJVA has launched their Raise The Nets! capital to give the player(s) an opportunity to better campaign to build a new facility that will meet the develop skills needed to further their respective needs of this growing community of players talent. Beach lessons are also offered. including youth players ages 5-18, adult recreational players and sitting volleyball for physically SUMMER CAMP – Summer camps for youth 5-18 disabled players. The new, larger facility will are offered during the months of June & July of have 9 indoor hard courts and 2 indoor sand each year. These camps are designed to teach courts enabling JJVA to keep up with the fast skills as well as game situation concepts. Camps growth of the sport, host tournaments, provide are age and skill group designated and also skill health and wellness programs for the community, grouped during each session. Visit the JJVA and enhance our national exposure. website beginning each February for more information about the camp schedule and Programs include: registration process. FALL TRAIN AND PLAY (T.A.P.) – Held during the months of August, September and October for youth player’s ages 5-16 years, T.A.P. is designed for beginning players or young intermediate players who wish to train and play locally in the fall season. This program will introduce all the skills of volleyball as well as develop team competition skills through tournament participation once a month.
BEACH PROGRAM – Recognizing the growth of the Beach Volleyball for boys and girls the club offers a year round sand/beach program. The Florida region offers a large number of competitions throughout the spring, summer and early fall season. See JJVA.com for more information. j
Page 6 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
Offered in August, September and October Play for one month, two months or all three Individual skill instruction on all basic skills
MINI CLUB TRYOUTS
Competition drills and games on some weekends Lighter ball and lower net for younger players Girls and Boys are welcome
SATURDAY, AUGUST 8
Ages 10 & 11 9:00 - 10:30 am Age 12 11:00 - 12:30 pm
COST: $10
Age 13 1:00 - 2:30 pm Age 14 3:00 - 4:30 pm
THERE ARE TWO PRACTICE OPTIONS AVAILABLE; PLAYERS CAN ATTEND MONDAY & WEDNESDAY OR TUESDAY & THURSDAY.
AUGUST
MONDAY & WEDNESDAY
TUESDAY & THURSDAY
August 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24 & 26
August 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25 & 27
4:30 - 6:00 pm ages 9-12 6:00 - 7:30 pm ages 9-12 7:30 - 9:00 pm ages 13-16
4:30 - 6:00 pm ages 9-12 6:00 - 7:30 pm ages 13-16 7:30 - 9:00 pm ages 13-16
August Play Day is Saturday, August 29 for all August TAP Players.
COST: $125
SEPTEMBER MONDAY & WEDNESDAY
TUESDAY & THURSDAY
August 31 & September 2, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23 & 28 No TAP Monday, September 7th (Labor Day)
September 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22 & 24
4:30 - 6:00 pm ages 9-12 6:00 - 7:30 pm ages 9-12 7:30 - 9:00 pm ages 13-16
4:30 - 6:00 pm ages 9-12 6:00 - 7:30 pm ages 13-16 7:30 - 9:00 pm ages 13-16
September Play Day is Saturday, September 26 for all September TAP Players.
COST: $125
OCTOBER MONDAY & WEDNESDAY
TUESDAY & THURSDAY
September 30 & October 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21 & 26
September 29 & October 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20 & 22
4:30 - 6:00 pm ages 9-12 6:00 - 7:30 pm ages 9-12 7:30 - 9:00 pm ages 13-16
4:30 - 6:00 pm ages 9-12 6:00 - 7:30 pm ages 13-16 7:30 - 9:00 pm ages 13-16
COST: $125
REGISTER AND PAY ONLINE AT WWW.JJVA.COM
904.854.2323 WE’RE ON FACEBOOK
6773 PHILIPS INDUSTRIAL LANE
health & safety
Study Finds Walking Improves Creativity M any people claim they do their best thinking while walking. A new study finds that walking indeed boosts creative inspiration.
A new study by Stanford researchers provides an explanation for this. Creative thinking improves while a person is walking and shortly thereafter, according to a study co-authored by Marily Oppezzo, a Stanford doctoral graduate in educational psychology, and Daniel Schwartz, a professor at Stanford Graduate School of Education. The study found that walking indoors or outdoors similarly boosted creative inspiration. The act of walking itself, and not the environment, was the main factor. Across the board, creativity levels were consistently and significantly higher for those walking compared to those sitting. “Many people anecdotally claim they do their best thinking when walking. We finally may be taking a step, or two, toward discovering why,” Oppezzo and Schwartz wrote in the study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory and Cognition. Walking vs. sitting Other research has focused on how aerobic exercise generally protects long-term cognitive function, but until now, there did not appear to be a study that specifically examined the effect of non-aerobic walking on the simultaneous creative generation of new ideas and then compared it against sitting, Oppezzo said. A person walking indoors – on a treadmill in a room facing a blank wall – or walking outdoors in the fresh air produced twice as many creative responses compared to a person sitting down, one of the experiments found. “I thought walking outside would blow everything out of the water, but walking on a treadmill in a small, boring room still had strong results, which surprised me,” Oppezzo said. The study also found that creative juices continued to flow even when a person sat back down shortly after a walk. Gauging creative thinking The research comprised four experiments involving 176 college students and other adults who completed tasks commonly used by researchers to gauge creative thinking. Participants were placed in different conditions: walking indoors on a treadmill or sitting indoors – both facing a blank wall – and walking outdoors or sitting outdoors while being pushed in wheelchair
– both along a pre-determined path on the Stanford campus. Researchers put seated participants in a wheelchair outside to present the same kind of visual movement as walking. The overwhelming majority of the participants in these experiments were more creative while walking than sitting, the study found. In one of those experiments, participants were tested indoors – first while sitting, then while walking on a treadmill. The creative output increased by an average of 60 percent when the person was walking, according to the study. A fourth experiment evaluated creative output by measuring people’s abilities to generate complex analogies to prompt phrases. The most creative responses were those that captured the deep structure of the prompt. For example, for the prompt “a robbed safe,” a response of “a soldier suffering from PTSD” captures the sense of loss, violation and dysfunction. “An empty wallet” does not. The result: 100 percent of those who walked outside were able to generate at least one high-quality, novel analogy compared to 50 percent of those seated inside. No link to focused thinking But not all thought processes are equal. While the study showed that walking benefited creative brainstorming, it did not have a positive effect on the kind of focused thinking required for single, correct answers. “This isn’t to say that every task at work should be done while simultaneously walking, but those that require a fresh perspective or new ideas would benefit from it,” said Oppezzo.
Fun Facts About Teeth H ere are ten fun facts about teeth. How many of these facts did you know?
Tooth enamel is the hardest part of your body— even harder than your bones! If you only brush and skip flossing, you will only clean 60% of your tooth! Would you want to only clean 60% of your body? Make sure you brush AND floss twice a day. The most common disease in the United States is the common cold. Do you want to guess what comes in second? Yep, dental cavities! In fact, dental decay is the most common childhood disease in the United States. The longer food stays in the mouth, the higher the chance for dental decay. This is why brushing and flossing before bed is crucial to good dental health. More than 50% of people say that a smile is the first thing they notice about someone, giving you even more incentive to brush and floss. Giraffes only have bottom teeth. We humans have 32 teeth, dogs have 42 teeth, cats have 30 teeth, pigs have 44 teeth, and an armadillo has 104
May Wong, Sanford.edu
Page 7 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
Toothpaste was used as long ago as 500 BC in China and India. Toothpastes included ingredients such as soot, honey, crushed egg shells, and ground ox’s hooves! In 1816, Sir Isaac Newton’s tooth was sold in London for today’s equivalent of $35,700. I bet the tooth fairy was glad she did not have to pay for that tooth! In China, September 20th is an official holiday known as “Love Your Teeth Day.” Here at home, we love our teeth too. So while you are out picking up those school supplies don’t forget to stock up on toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss. And make sure to get in your dental checkup too! j
Jila J. Mahajan, D.D.S., Kids First Dentistry 4495 Roosevelt Boulevard, Suite 111 Jacksonville, Florida 32210 904-423-1377 www.kids1dentistry.com
We take the Fear out of Dentistry! Did you know
82% of people say fear is the number one reason they don’t go to the dentist?
Researchers gave participants a word-association task, commonly used to measure insight and focused thinking. Given three words, participants had to generate the one word that could be used with all three to form compound words. For instance, given the words “cottage, Swiss and cake,” the correct answer is “cheese.” In this test, those who responded while walking performed mildly worse than those who responded while sitting. “We’re not saying walking can turn you into Michelangelo,” Oppezzo said. “But it could help you at the beginning stages of creativity.” j
teeth.
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infant & toddler
Tips to Help Your Toddler Learn Language Slow Down Children learn language in everyday moments and routines. Diaper changes, bath time, meal time...these are all so routine, yet they are some of the best times to slow down and talk to your child. These are the moments he is learning the most. Slow down your speech. This is especially important if your toddler is struggling with speech and language development.
your child to these things in natural experiences! Let colors, numbers, shapes, counting and letters Wait slowly become a part of his vocabulary but we In today’s world, it seems we expect everything in don’t want her vocabulary only made up of these. a millisecond. We carry smart phones that can do Instead, remember to communicate about all the a Google search and give us what we want things you see in her environment. (“We have almost immediately. But our kids don’t learn three apples on the table. See? One. Two. Three.” language this way. They need us to help them, “Look! That basketball is orange and round. and they need us to wait. In terms of your little Maybe we can roll it on the driveway.”) When she one’s communication skills, make sure you take points at things, talk about them. Ask her Look at Your Child (And Get Down at His Level) time to wait for your little one to respond to you. questions and wait for her answer. Narrate her This may seem obvious, but when you really slow When you ask a question of him, wait. When you play sometimes and narrate your own movedown and take a look at the way you communiask him to do something, wait. Sometimes, we ments. Talk to your child. cate with your little one, you may be surprised don’t realize it but we are not allowing our how often you throw out language to your child children to take part in important learning Rethink Your Toys while they are turned away from you or while you experiences because we are too busy responding Children learn language all day every day through are turned away from him. If you want your child and doing for them, rather than waiting to see if all your normal daily routines and through play. to learn language and be a better communicator, they can do/see/say it without us. Make sure you have basic toys that allow for you need to take time to slow down, look at your many open ended play opportunities. These toys child when you speak, and when possible, get Stop Counting and Start Communication also allow for many more language opportunities. down on his level. This helps your child focus on Toddlers are little sponges that seem to soak up Also, consider utilizing a toy rotation in your so much. But right now isn’t the time they need you and your message. This helps phase out the home. j distractions around him like toys, noise, and other to master letters, numbers, and shapes. Expose ww.playingwithwords365.com
Things to Do Infant & Toddler
Breastfeeding 101 • August 4, 6pm • August 29, 3pm • September 1, 6pm A Certified Lactation Consultant will offer professional advice and practical tips to help prepare new and expectant moms for a successful nursing experience. Bring your questions! Babies ‘R Us / 904-997-6311 / 4875 Town Center Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.babiesrus.com TNT Pre-school Open Gym August 5, 12 & 19 • 10am to 11am TNT offers Pre-school Open Gym. There is a dedicated preschool area, giant foam pit, trampolines and more. Children do not need socks or shoes. This is parent supervision only; no coaches or instruction are provided during the free play sessions. For ages 14 months to 5 years. Cost is $5 cash, or $6 card. TNT Gymnastics / 904-998TNT1 / 2683 Saint Johns Bluff Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.tntgymfit.com Baby/Spanish Storytime August 7, 14, 21 & 28 • 10:15am Spanish/English storytime for babies, held in the Children’s Department, featuring rhymes, stories, music, and more. This storytime is conducted in both English and Spanish and is geared toward children and parents learning Spanish, but all are welcome. Anastasia Island Branch / 904-209-3730 / 124 Seagrove Main St St. Augustine Beach, FL 32080 / www.sjcpls.org Birth Story Healing Circle August 8, 2:30pm to 5:30pm Evelyn Ojeda-Fox with The Peaceful Birth Project/ Peaceful Birth and Peaceful Parenting will visit Jacksonville for a second year to lead a Birth Story Healing Circle. This workshop can help women process and transform a traumatic birth experience to allow for healing to take place. Cost is
children.
$60 and must be pre-paid via PayPal to: north. fl@ican-online.org . This workshop must have 8 women signed up in order for it to take place. ICAN of North Florida / Unitarian Universalist Church of Jacksonville, 7405 Arlington Expressway, Jacksonville, FL 32211 / www.facebook.com/ IcanOfNorthFlorida HypnoBirthing • August 9, 3:30pm to 6pm HypnoBirthing childbirth classes are a complete childbirth education course teaching specific methods of relaxation using visualization, breathing techniques, birth anatomy, and more. The method also teaches you that in the absence of fear and tension, pain does not have to occur. This session begins August 9 and runs through September 6. Registration remains open until Class 2, so if you miss the first class, call to get caught up and start with class 2. Cost is $285/couple. Held at Bliss Yoga and Wellness. Register online in advance. Doulananda Birth Services / 904-701-2933 / Bliss Yoga and Wellness, 2301 Park Avenue Suite 302, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.jacksonvilledoulas. com Tums & Bums • August 11, 6pm “Tums” will teach moms what household items aid in relieving heartburn and indigestion. This is followed by a session on how to lighten stretch markw, stomach support that can be worn during pregnancy, and stomach support to be worn after pregnancy. “Bums” will teach how to care for a baby’s bottom to prevent diaper rash and what common household items can help relieve diaper rash should it occur. Class will conclude with a demonstration on how to make baby wipes and diaper rash balm using organic items from the local health food store. Babies ‘R Us / 904-997-6311 / 4875 Town Center Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.babiesrus.com Gymboree Play & Music August 16, 11am • September 19, 11am Explore the senses and support visual and auditory development with tummy time, flashlight play, first
Page 8 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
songs and more. This baby class includes parent discussion time to help learn about your child’s development. There will also be a story telling time. Babies ‘R Us / 904-997-6311 / 4875 Town Center Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.babiesrus. com Baby Basics August 20, 6pm • September 17, 6pm With the help of a baby professional, new and expectant parents will learn how to care for baby during the first 6 months of infancy. Babies ‘R Us / 904-997-6311 / 4875 Town Center Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.babiesrus.com Multiple Miracles Class August 24, 6pm to 8:30pm This class will prepare couples for the challenges of a multiple pregnancy along with all the special joys that having more than one baby at once will bring. Class includes videos of parents as they embark on their journey of having multiples. During the class you will be given information on how to set up a lactation consultation and tours of the Neonatal Intensive Care Units. Parents expecting multiples are encouraged to complete all education classes by 24 weeks in your pregnancy. Held at the Y Healthy Living Center Mandarin. Cost is $30 per couple. Baptist Medical Center / Y Healthy Living Center Mandarin, 10415 San Jose Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.baptistjax.com Baby Food Bonanza • September 8, 7:30pm The “Baby Food Bonanza” class will teach expectant parents how to make homemade baby food with items typically found in the kitchen. This session will demonstrate how to grind brown rice for baby cereal, how to puree fruits and vegetables, and how to properly store food for safety. Class will conclude with a recipe card for all attendees. Babies ‘R Us / 904-997-6311 / 4875 Town Center Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.babiesrus. com
Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.
NOW ENROLLING 6 WEEKS TO VPK!
Gold Seal Accreditation
Open Monday – Friday 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Ages 6 weeks – 5 years
■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
A Beka Curriculum Learn Every Day™ Nemours® BrightStart! Spanish – 4 years & up Dance & Soccer options Computers Nutritious Lunch & Snacks Part time care available FREE VPK Provider
$200 OFF Coupon Receive $25.00 off a week for 8 weeks New full time enrollments only! Two week notice voids offer. One coupon per family. Multiple discounts not allowed. Expiration 9/30/15.
SCHEDULE A TOUR OF OUR INFANT ROOM TODAY! Intracoastal 904-641-5273
Southside 904-997-1971
11761 Beach Blvd. # 13
8595 Beach Blvd. # 201
Gate Parkway 904-538-0900
Arlington 904-807-9191
Lic #C04DU370
11526 Lake Meade Ave #105 Lic #C04DU1135
Lic #C04DU369
3033 Monument Road #21 Lic #C04DU0806
Quality Preschool and Childcare www.TsLearningCenter.com
IS YOUR DOCTOR OPEN 365 DAYS A YEAR? Open Nights, Holidays & Weekends Three Convenient Locations
Southside
8774 Perimeter Park Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32216 Phone: 904-642-6100 Monday - Friday: 8 am to 8:30 pm Saturday & Sunday: 10 am to 4 pm
Downtown
1951 Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32206 Phone: 904-354-6868 Monday - Friday: 8 am to 6 pm
Beach
930 Third Street Neptune Beach, FL 32266 Phone: 904-246-9428 Monday - Friday: 8 am to 6 pm
CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY! We’re Here When You Need Us www.jacksonvillepeds.com Page 9 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
Special needs
Scholarships Available for Kids in Need D
o you know a child with financial or special needs who might qualify for one of these two scholarship opportunities?
Step Up For Students is a local nonprofit that helps administer the Personal Learning Scholarship Accounts and the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship.
can continue to receive the scholarship until they graduate high school, turn 22 or return to public school. Families or caregivers interested in the Personal Learning Scholarship Accounts are encouraged to visit the special needs scholarship section of the Step Up For Students website for additional information.
The K-12 income-based Florida Tax Credit ScholThe Personal Learning Scholarship Accounts arship program provides low-income families helps families customize educational plans for with financial assistance toward private school their children with certain special needs, and is tuition and fees, or assistance with transportation available for qualified Florida students begincosts to attend a public school in another county. ning at age 3 through 22 or high school graduaThe tuition scholarship is worth up to $5,677 this tion, whichever comes first. To qualify, students school year and may increase in 2016-17. The must be diagnosed with one of the following: transportation scholarship is $500 a year. Stuautism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down dents may be eligible if their family’s household syndrome, muscular dystrophy, Prader-Willi income qualifies for the free or reduced-price syndrome, spina bifida, Williams syndrome or an school lunch program (185 percent of the federal intellectual disability (severe cognitive impairpoverty guidelines), or if the family receives SNAP ment). Students deemed “high risk” due to (food stamps), TANF, or FDPIR. Students enterdevelopmental delays and not older than 5 on ing kindergarten must be 5 on or before Sept. Sept. 1 may be eligible for the year they apply. 1. Students entering first grade must be 6 on The program allows parents to direct scholarship or before Sept. 1. Children who are homeless, funds toward a combination of approved proor in foster care or out-of-home care also may grams and providers that they think best meets be eligible. Families or caregivers interested in their children’s unique needs. Parents can use the the income-based scholarship are encouraged money to pay for private school tuition, therapy to visit IMAGES the income-based scholarship section of ALTERNATIVE services, specialists, curriculum – or even save our website for additional information. Please for their child’s college education. note: The Florida Tax Credit Scholarships for new students are limited. It can be used for homeschooling, but not if the student is enrolled in public school or receiving Please visit www.StepUpForStudents.org to learn any other state-sponsored scholarship. Students more. j
FRX22_Ped Dep_Print 1
Things to Do
Walk Now for Autism Speaks • Sept 19 Walk Now for Autism Speaks is a fun-filled, family friendly event and is our single most powerful force to fund vital research that will lead us to the answers we need. Experience the power of thousands united by a Sensory Friendly Films single cause by joining Walk Now for Autism Speaks. August 22, 10am – Underdogs Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental Sept 26, 10am – Hotel Transylvania AMC Entertainment (AMC) and ASA have teamed up to disorder in the U.S. – we need more volunteers to join bring families affected by autism and other disabilities our fight. Whether this is your first walk or the 10th, take the first step and register today. You will not only a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a raise funds, but you will become a part of a fun and safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis. supportive family-focused community. The JackLights are brought up, sound is turned down, and sonville Landing, W Independent Dr, Jacksonville, FL families are allowed to bring their own snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 in the Regency 32202/ www.walknowforautismspeaks.org Center Square. 9451 Regency Square Blvd, Jackson5th Annual North Coast Surfers For Autism Beach ville, FL 32225 / 904-725-0885 / www.amctheatres. Festival • September 26, 9am - 4pm com/programs/sensory-friendly-films At a Surfers For Autism event, surfers are provided a safe, fun, judgment free environment where highly Believe Autism Dance/Art Classes • Sept 12 skilled surf instructors carefully guide them into 9:30am - 10:30am (3 - 4 year olds) waves. The surfers and their families are treated 10:30am - 11:30am (5 - 12 year olds) like rock stars and enjoy a day filled with a range of 11:30am - 12:30am (13 and older) activities including stand up paddle boarding, kayakArt rotation of 30 minutes and dance rotation of 30 ing, live music, face-painting, games, fire engine tours minutes. Art activities will be new each week or a small art project that will be worked on week to week and much more. A catered lunch is also provided, all at no cost to registered participants, their families and until complete. The dance rotation will consist of volunteers. This is a very special day where children creative movement and social opportunities. Classes are taught by Crystal Thompson, a Board Certified Be- with developmental delays interact with typical peers havior Analyst (BCBA) and ballet, tap, and jazz dancer. and wow families with their capabilities. This event is held at Jacksonville Beach. Go to their website to Classes cost $10.00 and are held at The Performers register. www.surfersforautism.org Academy. Space is limited. To RSVP call or email believeautism@gmail.com. The Performers Academy, 3674 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / 704-277- Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings. 1884 / www.believeautism.com
Special Needs
PagePI], 10 •MD Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 [Insert | 000-000-0000
cnshealthcare.com
Is this the sign you’ve been waiting for? Depression isn’t just for grown-ups children and adolescents can have it, too. Irritable Mood | Hard to Cheer Up Bored | Detached | Disinterested Lack of Interest in School or Friends
Don’t wait for another sign. Call about a clinical research study for children ages 7-17 who are depressed. We will talk with you and your child about the changes you are seeing and help decide if the study is right for you.
Nandita Joshi, MD | 904-281-5757 cnshealthcare.com ©2015, Clinical Neuroscience Solutions, Inc.
Page 11 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource designed for parents, caregivers, and community members. 2015 Student Courses are accurate at time of publication. Childcare, food, and giveaways at select courses. Transportation assistance available. Achievement Spring Course Catalog Visit www.duvalschools.org/ParentAcademy to verify and register. Envíe un correo electrónico a ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org si necesita traducción. Parenting & Advocacy
2015 Fall Schedule
Student Achievement ACHIEVE 3000
Personal & Individual Growth
Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will provide parents, caregivers and community members with the tools needed to best utilize the Achieve 3000 online program (used by students grades 3-12) at home.
CHILD LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Presented by: The Early Learning Coalition of Duval As a part of the Born Learning Series, this course will provide information on the topics of developmental milestones, social and emotional development, problem-solving skills, and communication skills for families that have children ages birth to five. Childcare provided ages 1-10.
Date
Location
Time
Date
Location
Time
09/29/15
Susie Tolbert Elementary School 1925 W. 13th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
09/05/15
St. Paul United Methodist Church 8264 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211
9:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m.
10/13/15
Don Brewer Elementary School 3385 Hartsfield Road, Jacksonville, FL 32277
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
09/22/15
St. Stephen Childcare and Learning Center 1525 N. Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
11/19/15
Joseph Stilwell Middle School 7840 Burma Road, Jacksonville, FL 32221
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
10/01/15
Historic Springfield Community Learning Center 1601 N. Main Street (2nd floor), Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
12/03/15
John E. Ford K-8 School 1137 Cleveland Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
ATTENDANCE AND ACADEMICS: A PERFECT RELATIONSHIP
Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will review data associated with student attendance rates and its impact on student achievement. It will also cover state statutes that govern attendance policies and strategies that can be helpful in improving school attendance rates for students.
Date
Location
Time
09/30/15
Woodland Acres Elementary School 328 Bowlan Street, Jacksonville, FL 32211
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
10/07/15
Job Corps, 4811 Payne Stewart Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
10/28/15
Jefferson Davis Middle School 7050 Melvin Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
11/16/15
William M. Raines High School 3663 Raines Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
12/09/15
Samuel W. Wolfson High School 7000 Powers Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32217
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
BUILDING LITERACY, MATH AND SCIENCE KNOWLEDGE THROUGH PLAY
Presented by: University of North Florida, Department of Childhood Education This course actively involves participants in ways to make learning fun and build children’s conceptual knowledge and vocabulary through project-based and problem-based activities that are linked with standards and clear learning outcomes.
Date
Location
Time
10/09/15
Florida Department of Health - Duval County 515 West 6th St, Jacksonville, FL 32206
12:00 noon 1:00 p.m.
11/12/15
John Love Elementary School 1531 Winthrop St, Jacksonville, FL 32206
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Page 12 • Jax4Kids.com Jax4Kids.com••AUGUST/SEPTEMBER AUGUST/SEPTEMBER2015 2015
COLLEGE AND CAREER EXPLORATION Presented by: Community Resource Coordinators of Keiser University This course will provide students and parents with a comprehensive overview of things to consider when choosing a college and career. Participants will be encouraged to evaluate their thoughts about what they expect in a college and career, explore “in demand” fields, and take a personality assessment to help match them with careers.
Date
Location
Time
09/28/15
Keiser University 6430 Southpoint Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32216
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
10/26/15
Keiser University 6430 Southpoint Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32216
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
DOES YOUR CHILD STRUGGLE IN SCHOOL? Presented by: DCPS and FDLRS/Child Find Staff This course will provide an understanding of Response to Intervention (RTI) and how it holds the promise of insuring that all children have access to high-quality instruction, and that struggling students are identified, supported, and served early and effectively at their school.
Date
Location
Time
09/22/15,
DCPS Exceptional Education and Parent Services, and FDLRS/Child Find, 4124 Boulevard Center Drive, Building 4600, Jacksonville, FL 32207
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
10/20/15
DCPS Exceptional Education and Parent Services, and FDLRS/Child Find, 4124 Boulevard Center Drive, Building 4600, Jacksonville, FL 32207
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/19/15
DCPS Exceptional Education and Parent Services, and FDLRS/Child Find, 4124 Boulevard Center Drive, Building 4600, Jacksonville, FL 32207
4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
12/10/15
DCPS Exceptional Education and Parent Services, and FDLRS/Child Find, 4124 Boulevard Center Drive, Building 4600, Jacksonville, FL 32207
4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
ELEMENTARY MATHEMATICS: PARENT PARTNERSHIPS FOR SUCCESS Presented by: DCPS Staff Come explore how mathematics instruction has changed and how students are being prepared. This course will expose you to math content your child will experience, and provide tips on how to help them be successful.
LEARNING ON THE GO Presented by: The Early Learning Coalition of Duval As a part of the Born Learning Series, this course will provide information on the topics of the importance of play, incorporating learning into everyday routines, choosing quality childcare, and appropriate toys for families of children age birth to five. Childcare provided ages 1-10.
Date
Location
Time
Date
Location
Time
09/28/15
Holiday Hill Elementary School 6900 Altama Road, Jacksonville, FL 32216
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
10/24/15
St. Paul United Methodist Church 8264 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211
9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
10/05/15
Carter G. Woodson Elementary School 2334 Butler Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
11/10/15
St. Stephen Childcare and Learning Center 1525 N. Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
11/02/15
Parkwood Heights Elementary School 1709 Lansdowne Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32211
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
11/19/15
Historic Springfield Community Learning Center 1601 N. Main Street (2nd floor), Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
MAKE READING A FAMILY AFFAIR
GIFTED 101 Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will discuss the gifted program of Duval County Public Schools, and provide information on gifted screening and evaluation, eligibility, and services.
Date
Location
Time
09/21/15
Jacksonville Beach Elementary School 315 10th Street South, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
11/03/15
Neptune Beach Elementary School 1515 Florida Boulevard, Neptune Beach, FL 32266
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
11/17/15
Richard L. Brown Elementary 1535 Milnor Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
HOW IS YOUR SCHOOL PERFORMING?
Presented by: Jacksonville Public Education Fund Learn how to access school performance and basic data for Duval County Public Schools.
Date
Location
Time
09/24/15
Kirby-Smith Middle School 2034 Hubbard Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
11/17/15
Pinedale Elementary School 4229 Edison Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE?
Presented by: Community Resource Coordinators of Keiser University Provides everything there is to know about state and federal financial aid programs, grants, scholarships and where to search for money.
Date
Location
Time
09/24/15
Keiser University 6430 Southpoint Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32216
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
i-READY
Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will provide parents, caregivers and community members with the tools needed to best utilize the i-Ready online program (used by students grades K-2) at home.
Date
Location
Time
09/21/15
Richard L. Brown Elementary School 1535 Milnor Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
LAVILLA SCHOOL OF THE ARTS – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will help parents and caregivers understand the audition process for feederschool entry and/or open auditions into LaVilla School of the Arts. Parents will hear common misconceptions of the application process, and gain tools and strategies for successful student entry.
Date
Location
Time
11/03/15
(Feeder Parents) LaVilla School of the Arts 501 North Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202
5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
(Non-Feeder Parents) LaVilla School of the Arts 501 North Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202
5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
11/05/15
Page 13 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will provide families with activities for making reading a fun part of family time.
Date
Location
Time
11/12/15
Abess Park Elementary School 12731 Abess Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32225
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
MAKING SCIENCE FUN AT HOME Presented by: DCPS Staff Learn how to have fun with science using every day household products.
Date
Location
Time
10/01/15
Well Care Health Plans, Inc. 5115-1 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
12/08/15
Twin Lakes Academy Elementary School 8000 Point Meadows Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32256
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
PRIORITIZING MILESTONES IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Presented by: DCPS Parent Academy Staff Learn how to set goals to be successful through Elementary School and upon entrance into Middle School.
Date
Location
Time
10/26/15
Garden City Elementary School 2814 Dunn Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32218
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
12/15/15
Arlington Elementary School 1201 University Blvd. North, Jacksonville, FL 32211
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
PRIORITIZING MILESTONES IN HIGH SCHOOL Presented by: DCPS Parent Academy Staff Learn how to set goals to be successful throughout High School and beyond.
Date
Location
Time
09/23/15
Well Care Health Plans, Inc. 5115-1 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
10/21/15
Andrew Jackson High School 3816 North Main Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
11/04/15
Sandalwood High School 2750 John Prom Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
PRIORITIZING MILESTONES IN MIDDLE SCHOOL Presented by: DCPS Staff Learn how to set goals to be successful through Middle School and upon the entrance into High School.
Date
Location
Time
09/30/15
Matthew Gilbert Middle School 1424 Franklin Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
10/08/15
Joseph Stilwell Middle School 7840 Burma Road, Jacksonville, FL 32221
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 • Jax4Kids.com •
Page 13
SCHOOL YEARS AND BEYOND: A GUIDE TO ACADEMIC SUCCESS
THE ONE STOP SHOP TO ACADEMIC SUCCESS (HOMEWORK HELP)
Presented by: The College Board and DCPS Staff This all-inclusive course will provide parents with the tools to better navigate through Duval County Public Schools, and gain tools and resources for preparing children for academic success during elementary, middle, high school and beyond.
Presented by: DCPS Staff/Need an A Parents, caregivers, and students can expect to learn how to navigate needana.com to get free academic resources.
Date
Location
Time
09/19/15
Bethel Baptist Institutional Church 215 Bethel Baptist Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202
9:15 - 11:45 a.m.
10/17/15
Bethel Baptist Institutional Church 215 Bethel Baptist Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202
9:15 - 11:45 a.m.
SEEING OUR STUDENT ATHLETES TO HIGH SCHOOL SUCCESS AND THROUGH COLLEGE COMPLETION
Presented by: Brenda Priestly Jackson, Dynamic Education Foundation Inc. (DEF) This course will teach parents how to fully support student-athletes both on and off the team. Learn about the Dynamic Education Foundation, Inc., NCAA requirements, SAT/ACT prep, and more.
Date
Location
Time
10/05/15
Sandalwood High School 2750 John Prom Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
10/19/15
Jean Ribault High School 3701 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
STORY TIME
Presented by: The Jacksonville Public Library and the Center for Language and Culture (ESOL) Read with your child!
Date
Location
Time
10/19/15
Crystal Springs Elementary School 1200 Hammond Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32221
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
UNDERSTANDING CORE KNOWLEDGE Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will provide families with an overview of the new K-12 English Language Arts curriculum core knowledge.
Date
Location
Time
09/29/15
Andrew Robinson Elementary School 101 West 12th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
10/22/15
J.E.B. Stuart Middle School 4815 Wesconnett Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32210
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
11/24/15
Englewood High School 4412 Barnes Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
UNDERSTANDING THE FLORIDA STANDARDS ASSESSMENT: ELEMENTARY MATH AND SCIENCE Presented by: DCPS Staff Learn how to assist Elementary School Students in the areas of Math and Science on the Florida Standards Assessment.
Date
Location
Time
09/25/15
Southeast Regional Branch Library 10599 Deerwood Park Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32256
11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
Date
Location
Time
09/28/15
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
10/22/15
South Mandarin Branch Library 12125 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32223
11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
Sallye B. Mathis Elementary School 3501 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208
10/26/15
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
11/20/15
Southeast Regional Branch Library 10599 Deerwood Park Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32256
11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
Carter G. Woodson Elementary School 2334 Butler Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32209
11/09/15
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
12/10/15
South Mandarin Branch Library 12125 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32223
11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
Oak Hill Elementary School 6910 Daughtry Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32210
12/10/15
Richard L. Brown Elementary School 1535 Milnor Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
TEST TAKING STRATEGIES THAT WORK
Presented by: DCPS Parent Academy Staff This course will include ways to master reading skills that can be used to reach proficiency on classroom and standardized tests.
Date
Location
Time
09/22/15
Mayport Elementary School 2753 Shangri La Drive, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
09/28/15
Edward White High School 1700 Old Middleburg Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
10/20/15
Southwind Villas Housing Community 8711 Newton Road, Jacksonville, FL 32216
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
10/26/15
Bonefish Grill 10950 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32223
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
11/17/15
Blodgett Villas Housing Community 1301 North Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
12/14/15
Carvill Community Center 1320 Carvill Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32208
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
THE GATES MILLENNIUM SCHOLARS PROGRAM
Presented by: The United Negro College Fund and DCPS Staff Come learn about this once-in-a-lifetime scholarship opportunity that pays for college tuition (through completion of a doctorate degree), as well as hear about other scholarship opportunities for minority students.
Date
Location
Time
10/08/15
Terry Parker High School 7301 Parker School Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Page 14 • Jax4Kids.com Jax4Kids.com••AUGUST/SEPTEMBER AUGUST/SEPTEMBER2015 2015
UNDERSTANDING THE FLORIDA STANDARDS ASSESSMENT: ELEMENTARY READING AND WRITING Presented by: DCPS Staff Learn how to assist Elementary School Students in the areas of Reading and Writing on the Florida Standards Assessment.
Date
Location
Time
09/28/15
Sallye B. Mathis Elementary School 3501 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
10/26/15
Carter G. Woodson Elementary School 2334 Butler Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
11/09/15
Oak Hill Elementary School 6910 Daughtry Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32210
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
12/10/15
Richard L. Brown Elementary School 1535 Milnor Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
UNDERSTANDING THE FLORIDA STANDARDS ASSESSMENT: HIGH SCHOOL MATH AND SCIENCE Presented by: DCPS Staff Learn how to assist High School Students in the areas of Math and Science on the Florida Standards Assessment.
Date
Location
Time
09/29/15
Englewood High School 4412 Barnes Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
12/01/15
Robert E. Lee High School 1200 McDuff Avenue South, Jacksonville, FL 32205
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
ANGER MANAGEMENT AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION
UNDERSTANDING THE FLORIDA STANDARDS ASSESSMENT: HIGH SCHOOL READING AND WRITING Presented by: DCPS Staff Learn how to assist High School Students in the areas of Reading and Writing on the Florida Standards Assessment.
Presented by: DCPS Parent Academy Staff This course will assist in obtaining knowledge on how past learning can influence present behavior. It will also discuss current trends and how they could impact future societal issues.
Date
Location
Time
Date
Location
Time
09/29/15
Job Corps, 4811 Payne Stewart Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
09/29/15
Englewood High School 4412 Barnes Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
10/29/15
Carvill Community Center 1320 Carvill Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32208
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
12/01/15
Robert E. Lee High School 1200 McDuff Avenue South, Jacksonville, FL 32205
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
12/08/15
Well Care Health Plans, Inc 5115-1 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL32205
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
UNDERSTANDING THE FLORIDA STANDARDS ASSESSMENT: MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH AND SCIENCE
ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY IN HIGH SCHOOL
Presented by: DCPS Staff Learn how to assist Middle School Students in the areas of Math and Science on the Florida Standards Assessment.
Date
Location
Time
10/12/15
Landmark Middle School 101 Kernan Blvd. North, Jacksonville, FL 32225
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
12/07/15
Matthew Gilbert Middle School 1424 Franklin Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Presented by: Athletics Department/DCPS Staff This course will be an in-depth presentation regarding the athletic eligibility for high school students to participate in sports at their school.
Date
Location
Time
08/27/15
Terry Parker High School 7301 Parker School Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY IN MIDDLE SCHOOL
Presented by: Athletics Department/DCPS Staff This course will be an in-depth presentation regarding the athletic eligibility for middle school students to participate in sports at their school.
UNDERSTANDING THE FLORIDA STANDARDS ASSESSMENT: MIDDLE SCHOOL READING AND WRITING Presented by: DCPS Staff Learn how to assist Middle School Students in the areas of Reading and Writing on the Florida Standards Assessment.
Date
Location
Time
10/12/15
Landmark Middle School 101 Kernan Blvd. North, Jacksonville, FL 32225
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
12/07/15
Matthew Gilbert Middle School 1424 Franklin Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Date
Location
Time
08/25/15
Twin Lakes Academy Middle School 8050 Point Meadows Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32256
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
BEHAVIOR/COMMUNICATION
Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will provide tips and tools for parents to deal with challenging behavior such as non-compliance, impulsivity and arguing in public. These strategies will provide a basis for building healthy and positive habits.
UNDERSTANDING THE INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATION PLAN (IEP)
Date
Location
Time
Presented by: DCPS and FDLRS/Child Find Staff This course will provide an overview of the purpose of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), Exceptional Education Student Services, and the content within an IEP. It will also provide parents/guardians of an ESE student an overview of their role in the development of an IEP.
09/23/15
Biltmore Elementary School 2101 W. Palm Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
10/06/15
Mayport Elementary School 2753 Shangri La Drive, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/10/15
Brentwood Elementary School 3750 Springfield Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Date
Location
Time
09/15/15
DCPS Exceptional Education and Parent Services, and FDLRS/Child Find, 4124 Boulevard Center Drive, Building 4600 Jacksonville, FL 32207
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
10/13/15
DCPS Exceptional Education and Parent Services, and FDLRS/Child Find, 4124 Boulevard Center Drive, Building 4600 Jacksonville, FL 32207
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/10/15
DCPS Exceptional Education and Parent Services, and FDLRS/Child Find, 4124 Boulevard Center Drive, Building 4600 Jacksonville, FL 32207
4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
DCPS Exceptional Education and Parent Services, and FDLRS/Child Find, 4124 Boulevard Center Drive, Building 4600 Jacksonville, FL 32207
4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
12/01/15
BLENDED AND STEP-FAMILY INTANGIBLES
Parenting & Advocacy ADVENTURES OF CHILDHOOD: UNDERSTANDING AGES 6-12
Presented by: UF/IFAS Extension – Duval County Learn about the unique developmental milestones of the grade-school years, how family relationships change during this time, and particular behavior-management issues for this age-group.
Date
Location
Time
09/17/15
UF/IFAS Extension – Duval County 1010 N. McDuff Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Page 15 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
Presented by: The Church Group Worldwide This four-part series course will give clarity and understanding to the Intangibles of Blended and Step Families, how to know what to expect going in, and how to navigate through a Blended or Step Family.
Date
Location
Time
09/22/15, 09/29/15, 10/06/15, 10/13/15
Jacksonville Baptist Association 2700 University Blvd. South, Jacksonville, FL 32216
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
10/29/15, 11/05/15, 11/12/15, 11/19/15
First Baptist Church of Oakland 1025 Jessie Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
To learn more or register online go to: www.duvalschools.org/ParentAcademy For additional registration options: E-mail ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org or call the Department of Family and Community Engagement (FACE) at 904.390.2960 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 • Jax4Kids.com •
Page 15
BREAKFAST LEARNING SERIES
Presented by: Family Support Services This course will share helpful information while providing a networking opportunity to individuals raising children and professionals who help parents. Each session covers a different topic.
Date
Location
Time
09/16/15
Edward Waters College, Schell Sweet Community Resource Center, 1697 Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209
9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
10/21/15
Edward Waters College (Gymnasium) 1859 Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209
9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
11/18/15
Edward Waters College, Schell Sweet Community Resource Center, 1697 Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209
9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
BULLYING IN THE 21ST CENTURY
Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will review the warning signs and descriptions of behavior associated with bullying for both the victim and the bully, the laws associated with bullying, and DCPS policies and procedures. This course will also provide a description of a safe and supportive environment, while offering resources for both students and parents.
Date
Location
Time
09/15/15
Southwind Villas Housing Community 8711 Newton Road, Jacksonville, FL 32216
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
09/30/15
Victory Pointe Housing Community 6750 Ramona Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
10/06/15
Blodgett Villas Housing Community 1301 North Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
11/03/15
Edward H. White High School 1700 Old Middleburg Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT
Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will inform parents, students and guardians about the Code of Student Conduct and revisions to Elementary and Secondary Codes.
Date
Location
Time
10/12/15
Job Corps, 4811 Payne Stewart Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/09/15
Darnell-Cookman Middle-High School 1701 Davis Street North, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
12/03/15
Oak Hill Elementary School 6910 Daughtry Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32210
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
CONVERSATIONS, CULTURES AND CUISINES – SUCCEEDING IN A GLOBAL WORLD
Presented by: DCPS Staff Do you really understand how different world cultures are? Can you teach your child how to embrace diversity if you don’t know much about other cultures? This course discusses the many cultures found in DCPS schools and some of the similarities and differences of each.
Date
Location
Time
10/22/15
Alfred I. duPont Middle School 2710 duPont Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32217
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
12/10/15
Lake Shore Middle School 2519 Bayview Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
CO-PARENTING: WORKING TOGETHER TO BUILD A HEALTHY FAMILY
Presented by: UF/IFAS Extension – Duval County Whether married or separated, parents will gain an understanding of what co-parenting entails, how it impacts their children, and how family history impacts parenting styles. While strengthening communication skills, parents will also develop a parenting plan.
Date
Location
Time
11/17/15
UF/IFAS Extension – Duval County 1010 N. McDuff Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
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COPING WITH CRISIS: FROM LOSS AND GRIEF TO VIOLENCE AND FEAR
Presented by: DCPS Staff and Community Hospice of Northeast Florida This course will empower parents and caregivers with a better understanding of the stages of grief associated with the loss of a loved one, offer local resources that provide emotional support in the event of a tragedy, and build awareness about the impact violence has on our children’s academic outcomes.
Date
Location
Time
10/15/15
First Baptist Church of Oakland 1025 Jessie Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION
Presented by: The Early Learning Coalition of Duval As a part of the Born Learning Series, this course will provide information on the topics of positive parent-interactions, language skills for children, and non-verbal communication for families that have children ages birth to five. Childcare provided ages 1-10.
Date
Location
Time
09/12/15
St. Paul United Methodist Church 8264 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211
9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
09/29/15
St. Stephen Childcare and Learning Center 1525 N. Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
10/08/15
Historic Springfield Community Learning Center 1601 N. Main Street (2nd floor), Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
EFFECTIVE DISCIPLINE
Presented by: The Early Learning Coalition of Duval As a part of the Born Learning Series, this course will provide information on the topics of why children misbehave, discipline techniques, and strategies and tips for inappropriate behavior for families that have children ages birth to five. Childcare provided ages 1-10.
Date
Location
Time
10/03/15
St. Paul United Methodist Church 8264 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211
9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
10/20/15
St. Stephen Childcare and Learning Center 1525 N. Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
10/29/15
Historic Springfield Community Learning Center 1601 N. Main Street (2nd floor), Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
FAMILY DYNAMICS AND DIFFERENCES
Presented by: The Early Learning Coalition of Duval As a part of the Born Learning Series, this course will provide information on the topics of Dads Are Different, single-parenting, grandparents raising grandchildren, and supportsystems for families that have children ages birth to five. Childcare provided ages 1-10.
Date
Location
Time
09/26/15
St. Paul United Methodist Church 8264 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211
9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
10/13/15
St. Stephen Childcare and Learning Center 1525 N. Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
10/22/15
Historic Springfield Community Learning Center 1601 N. Main Street (2nd floor), Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
FOCUS GRADE PORTAL FOR PARENTS & GUARDIANS
Presented by: DCPS Staff Attendees will leave this session with an understanding of the information that can be accessed through the Focus Grade Portal and the value associated with monitoring their child’s assignments, grades, and attendance.
Date
Location
Time
09/14/15
R.V. Daniels Elementary School 1951 West 15th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
10/14/15
Mayport Middle School 2600 Mayport Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/02/15
Westside High School 5530 Firestone Road, Jacksonville, FL 32244
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
PAINT LIKE MONET
FUN WITH FOOD AND FITNESS
Presented by: The Early Learning Coalition of Duval As a part of the Born Learning Series, this course will provide information on the topics of healthy eating habits, getting children to eat healthy, children that are picky eaters, and physical activity for families that have children ages birth to five. Childcare provided ages 1-10.
Date
Location
Time
09/19/15
St. Paul United Methodist Church 8264 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211
9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
10/06/15
St. Stephen Childcare and Learning Center 1525 N. Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
10/15/15
Historic Springfield Community Learning Center 1601 N. Main Street (2nd floor), Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
HOW TO BE A BETTER ADVOCATE FOR YOUR CHILD IN ESE
Presented by: DCPS and FDLRS/Child Find Staff This course will help parents to be an advocate for their child in ESE, with an overview of communication skills and preparing for an IEP meeting. It will also provide an overview of different disabilities and understanding accommodations for their child and the value of the ESE survey.
Date
Location
Time
09/01/15
DCPS Exceptional Education and Parent Services, and FDLRS/Child Find, 4124 Boulevard Center Drive, Building 4600, Jacksonville, FL 32207
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
10/06/15
DCPS Exceptional Education and Parent Services, and FDLRS/Child Find, 4124 Boulevard Center Drive, Building 4600, Jacksonville, FL 32207
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Presented by: DCPS Staff Parents will learn how to paint in an impressionist method. Parents will learn about the artist, Claude Monet, the role he had in the impressionist movement, art history, art advocacy, and art production. All participants will have a painting to take home with them at the conclusion of the workshop.
Date
Location
Time
09/22/15
Art Resource Center, 2924 Knights Lane East Bldg. #2 (On the Campus of Southside Middle School), Jacksonville, FL 32216
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
10/12/15
Art Resource Center, 2924 Knights Lane East Bldg. #2 (On the Campus of Southside Middle School), Jacksonville, FL 32216
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/18/15
Art Resource Center, 2924 Knights Lane East Bldg. #2 (On the Campus of Southside Middle School), Jacksonville, FL 32216
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
PARENT LEADER INFO SESSION
Presented by: DCPS Staff The Parent Academy is always looking for great Parent Leaders! Parent Leaders are those who will support other parents, empower them, and advocate for the Parent Academy overall. This course provides information about the duties and requirements to participate in the Parent Leader program.
Date
Location
Time
09/05/15
1701 Prudential Drive, Suite 606, Jacksonville, FL
12:00 noon 1:00 p.m.
10/12/15
1701 Prudential Drive, Suite 606, Jacksonville, FL
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
11/05/15
1701 Prudential Drive, Suite 606, Jacksonville, FL
12:00 noon 1:00 p.m.
POSITIVE BEHAVIOR SUPPORTS: CREATING SCHOOL-WIDE CHAMPions
HOW TO HAVE A SUCCESSFUL FAMILY
Presented by: DCPS Parent Academy Staff Knowing we all can improve, this course emphasizes self-inventory on the status of family and provides tools to ensure success, not perfection.
Presented by: DCPS Staff Describes the framework that all DCPS schools will utilize as its foundation for supporting positive behavioral outcomes.
Date
Location
Time
Date
Location
Time
10/01/15
Oak Hill Elementary School 6910 Daughtry Blvd. South, Jacksonville, FL 32210
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
09/17/15
Richard L. Brown Elementary School 1535 Milnor Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/24/15
Job Corps, 4811 Payne Stewart Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
11/12/15
Westview K-8 School 5270 Connie Jean Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
KEEPING CHILDREN SAFE
Presented by: The Early Learning Coalition of Duval As a part of the Born Learning Series, this course will provide information on the topics of signs and symptoms of abuse (sexual, physical, and emotional), child-neglect, and reporting abuse for families that have children ages birth to five. Childcare provided ages 1-10.
RESOLVING CONFLICT: HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR CHILD LIKE A CHAMP
Presented by: DCPS Parent Academy Staff Gives a proactive approach in communication and developing positive decision-making skills and outcomes.
Date
Location
Time
Date
Location
Time
10/10/15
St. Paul United Methodist Church 8264 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211
9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
11/09/15
Bonefish Grill 10950 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32223
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
10/27/15
St. Stephen Childcare and Learning Center 1525 N. Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
12/09/15
Job Corps, 4811 Payne Stewart Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/05/15
Historic Springfield Community Learning Center 1601 N. Main Street (2nd floor), Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
KNOW THE LAW
Presented by: The Jacksonville Sherriff’s Office and Drug Free Duval This shared strategy with Drug Free Duval and JSO provides a dynamic opportunity for parents to gain an understanding of our laws and ordinances in Duval County.
Date
Location
Time
08/31/15
First Coast High School 590 Duval Station Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
10/05/15
Jefferson Davis Middle School 7050 Melvin Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/02/15
Atlantic Coast High School 9735 R.G. Skinner Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
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SHATTERING THE SILENCE: UNDERSTANDING RELATIONSHIP ABUSE
Presented by: The One Love Foundation In parallel with the Escalation Workshop shown in your child’s high school health class, parents are welcome to join in an expert-lead discussion on healthy and unhealthy relationships, learn how to have conversations with kids about relationships from a young age, how to recognize the warning signs of an abusive relationship, and what research shows are the proper methods of intervening.
Date
Location
Time
10/19/15
Kirby-Smith Middle School 2034 Hubbard Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/04/15
Duncan Fletcher High School 700 Seagate Avenue, Neptune Beach, FL 32266
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 • Jax4Kids.com •
Page 17
TEENING-UP!
STEPPING STONES FOR STEP-FAMILIES
Presented by: UF/IFAS Extension – Duval County This course takes a look at step-family dynamics, strengthening the couple-relationship, the child’s experience, legal and financial matters, and working with others in the community.
Date
Location
Time
10/19/15
UF/IFAS Extension – Duval County 1010 N. McDuff Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
STRAIGHT TALK ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH
Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will provide a safe environment with accurate information to discuss mental health issues, and help reduce the stigma of mental health.
Date
Location
Time
09/17/15
William M. Raines High School 3663 Raines Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
10/23/15
Saint Clair Evans Academy 5443 Moncrief Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/10/15
Northwestern Middle School 2100 W 45th St, Jacksonville, FL 32209
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
STRESS AND FAMILY CONFLICT
Presented by: The Early Learning Coalition of Duval As a part of the Born Learning Series, this course will provide information on the topics of the types of stress, effects of stress, strategies to cope with stress and conflict for families that have children ages birth to five. Childcare provided ages 1-10.
Presented by: UF/IFAS Extension – Duval County This 6-session series covers the unique teen-brain; developmental transitions, positive discipline, talking with teens about sex, drugs and alcohol, anger-management, and empowering youth in building assets.
Date
Location
Time
09/25/15, 10/02/15, 10/09/15, 10/16/15, 10/23/15, 10/30/15
UF/IFAS Extension – Duval County 1010 N. McDuff Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
THE ARTS SMART CHILD: HOW TO BE AN ARTS ADVOCATE FOR YOUR CHILD
Presented by: DCPS Staff Through a fun and engaging workshop, participants will learn about the value and benefits of quality arts education and how they can advocate for and support arts learning opportunities for children.
Date
Location
Time
09/16/15
Mandarin Middle School 5100 Hood Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
10/07/15
Pinedale Elementary School 4229 Edison Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/03/15
Jacksonville Baptist Association 2700 University Blvd. South, Jacksonville, FL 32216
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
TOOLS FOR ENGAGEMENT
Presented by: Drug Free Duval This course provides specific strategies to assist parents in meaningful, intentional engagement that is linked to reduced risk-behavior choices.
Date
Location
Time
10/17/15
St. Paul United Methodist Church 8264 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211
9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
11/03/15
St. Stephen Childcare and Learning Center 1525 N. Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Date
Location
Time
10/05/15
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/12/15
Historic Springfield Community Learning Center 1601 N. Main Street (2nd floor), Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Duncan Fletcher Middle School 2000 3rd Street, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
11/02/15
Mandarin Middle School 5100 Hood Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
SUCCESSFUL PARENTING
Presented by: The Early Learning Coalition of Duval As a part of the Born Learning Series, this course will provide information on the topics of a safe home environment, meeting children’s needs, teaching morals and values, and parenting styles for families that have children ages birth to five. Childcare provided ages 1-10.
TOOLS FOR ENGAGEMENT AND KNOW THE LAW
Presented by: Drug Free Duval and the Jacksonville Sherriff’s Office This course provides specific strategies to assist parents in meaningful, intentional engagement that is linked to reduced risk-behavior choices, as well as gain an understanding of our laws and ordinances in Duval County.
Date
Location
Time
09/12/15
Fresh Ministries 1131 N. Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
Date
Location
Time
08/29/15
St. Paul United Methodist Church 8264 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211
9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
09/15/15
St. Stephen Childcare and Learning Center 1525 N. Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Personal & Individual Growth
09/24/15
Historic Springfield Community Learning Center 1601 N. Main Street (2nd floor), Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
BEING A BETTER YOU: ESTABLISHING AND ATTAINING LONG AND SHORT TERM GOALS
TECHNOLOGY/SOCIAL MEDIA/CYBERBULLYING
Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will assist parents with understanding how technology resources and social media affect students/families. This course will also help with understanding the impact of how parents communicate with schools through technology resources.
Date
Location
Time
10/20/15
Oceanway Elementary School 12555 Gillespie Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32218
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
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Presented by: DCPS Parent Academy Staff Explore ways to enhance your life using motivational, coping and healthy techniques in reaching personal or professional milestones.
Date
Location
Time
10/28/15
Salvation Army Social Services Center of Hope 900 West Adams Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/05/15
Victory Pointe Housing Community 6720 Ramona Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205
5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
BUILDING AND REBUILDING YOUR CREDIT
Presented by: RealSense for Prosperity This course will provide techniques on how to build your credit or increase your credit score.
Date
Location
Time
10/08/15
Southeast Regional Library 10599 Deerwood Park Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32256
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
10/21/15
Murray Hill Library 918 Edgewood Avenue South, Jacksonville, FL 32205
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
CANCER AWARENESS
Presented by: Baptist Health There are more than a half million cancer deaths in the U.S. each year. Locally, the Duval county cancer death rate is 194, which is higher than the state and national average. In this course, you will learn how to reduce your cancer risk through healthy lifestyle choices and review screening guidelines and recommendations.
Date
Location
Time
10/06/15
New Berlin Elementary School 3613 New Berlin Road, Jacksonville, FL 32226
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Presented by: Jacksonville Urban League/DCPS Parent Academy Staff Learn how to use Microsoft Excel 2013.
Date
Location
Time
09/16/15, 10/21/15, 11/18/15
Jacksonville Urban League 903 West Union Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
MICROSOFT POWERPOINT
COMPUTER BASICS
Presented by: Jacksonville Urban League/DCPS Parent Academy Staff This course will provide information on computer technology, social media and software including hardware, spreadsheets, word processing, Linked-In, Facebook, twitter and texting.
Date
Location
Time
10/07/15, 11/04/15, 12/02/15
Jacksonville Urban League 903 West Union Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Presented by: Jacksonville Urban League/DCPS Parent Academy Staff Learn how to use Microsoft PowerPoint 2013.
Date
Location
Time
09/23/15, 10/28/15
Jacksonville Urban League 903 West Union Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
MICROSOFT WORD
Presented by: Jacksonville Urban League/DCPS Parent Academy Staff Learn the terminology, screen components, and the most commonly used functions offered by Microsoft Word.
DAD ALL DAY (DAD) NETWORK
Presented by: Family Support Services Support group for formerly incarcerated dads.
Date
Location
Time
09/05/15, 10/03/15, 11/07/15, 12/05/15
Edward Waters College Schell Sweet Community Resource Center 1697 Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209
1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Date
Location
Time
10/14/15, 12/09/15
Jacksonville Urban League 903 West Union Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
MOMS: EXPLORING ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Presented by: MYGANI, DCPS Parent Leader Are you a stay-at-home mom wanting to start your own business but not sure where to start? This class will give you the resources you need to get started in gaining financial stability while still keeping your family first.
HEALTH INFORMATION STATION
Presented by: Baptist Health Baptist Health is offering a free health information station. At the station, you will have access to health topics such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, nutrition, physical activity, and children’s asthma education. Free blood pressure screenings will be offered for adults over 18 years of age.
Date
Location
Time
09/15/15
West Jacksonville Elementary School 2115 Commonwealth Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32209
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
12/14/15
Mamie Agnes Jones Elementary School 700 Orange Ave, Baldwin, FL 32234
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
MANAGING YOUR MONEY IN TOUGH TIMES
Presented by: RealSense for Prosperity Learn how to make tough decisions for spending and get tips for reducing expenses.
Date
Location
Time
11/05/15
Southeast Regional Library 10599 Deerwood Park Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32256
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/18/15
Murray Hill Library 918 Edgewood Avenue South, Jacksonville, FL 32205
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
MEETING WITH JSO
Presented by: DCPS- Center for Language and Culture (ESOL) These monthly informational sessions allow course-participants to speak with and ask questions of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
Date
Location
Time
09/10/15, 10/01/15, 11/05/15, 12/03/15
The Center for Language and Culture (CLC); on the campus of Kings Trail Elementary 7401 Old Kings Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32217
12:00 noon 1:00 p.m.
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MICROSOFT EXCEL
Date
Location
Time
09/18/15
Historic Springfield Community Learning Center 1601 North Main Street Jacksonville, FL 32206
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
11/17/15
Historic Springfield Community Learning Center 1601 North Main Street Jacksonville, FL 32206
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
READING COMPREHENSION THROUGH ACHIEVE 3000 FOR PARENTS Presented by: DCPS Staff Learn how to use the adult-version of the Achieve 3000 online program to increase literacy and boost reading achievement. (Courses begin September 15th and run through December 17th, 2015 – excluding holidays)
Date
Location
Time
Tuesdays
The Center for Language and Culture (CLC); on the campus of Kings Trail Elementary 7401 Old Kings Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32217
10:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m., and/or 3:30 - 5:00 p.m., and/or 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Wednesdays
Jacksonville Urban League 903 West Union Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204
9:00 a.m.12:00 p.m.
Thursdays
The Center for Language and Culture (CLC); on the campus of Kings Trail Elementary 7401 Old Kings Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32217
10:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
To learn more or register online go to: www.duvalschools.org/ParentAcademy For additional registration options: E-mail ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org or call the Department of Family and Community Engagement (FACE) at 904.390.2960
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 • Jax4Kids.com •
Page 19
RESUME WRITING AND COVER LETTER
Presented by: Jacksonville Urban League This course will provide useful information on writing a resume and cover letter. Participants will have the opportunity to type their resume and cover letter, leaving the course with completed documents.
Date
Location
Time
09/22/15, 10/13/15, 10/27/15, 11/10/15, 11/24/15, 12/08/15
Jacksonville Urban League 903 West Union Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204
9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
THE GIFT OF GOOD SENSE
Presented by: RealSense for Prosperity This course is designed to assist with understanding that while it is “better to give than receive,” it is wiser to do it with a specific plan in mind.
Date
Location
Time
12/03/15
Southeast Regional Library 10599 Deerwood Park Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32256
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
12/16/15
Murray Hill Library 918 Edgewood Avenue South, Jacksonville, FL 32205
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
THE IMMIGRANT GUIDE: WHAT EVERY IMMIGRANT NEEDS TO KNOW
ROSETTA STONE: LEARN ENGLISH/SPANISH
Presented by: DCPS- Center for Language and Culture (ESOL) At your own pace, learn English or Spanish using the individualized Rosetta Stone software. (Courses begin September 15th and run through December 17th, 2015 – excluding holidays)
Presented by: DCPS- Center for Language and Culture (ESOL) Information for Immigrants. (Courses begin September 14th and run through December 17th, 2015 – excluding holidays)
Date
Location
Time
Mondays
The Center for Language and Culture (CLC) on the campus of Kings Trail Elementary 7401 Old Kings Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32217
10:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
Date
Location
Time
Tuesdays
The Center for Language and Culture (CLC) on the campus of Kings Trail Elementary 7401 Old Kings Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32217
10:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m., and/or 3:30 - 5:00 p.m., and/or 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
West Riverside Elementary School 2801 Herschel Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Date
Location
Time
The Center for Language and Culture (CLC) on the campus of Kings Trail Elementary 7401 Old Kings Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32217
10:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
09/18/15, 10/16/15, 11/20/15, 12/18/15
The Center for Language and Culture (CLC) on the campus of Kings Trail Elementary 7401 Old Kings Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32217
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Tuesdays Thursdays
SUCCESSFULLY LANDING THE RIGHT JOB
Presented by: DCPS Staff Prepare to successfully land the right job, create the right resume, and handle tough questions in a job interview.
WOMEN’S CIRCLE
Presented by: DCPS- Center for Language and Culture (ESOL) A networking meeting to empower moms and women! Share with us your services, abilities, skills, and empower other ladies in a relaxing and a safe environment.
YOGA
Presented by: Florida Blue A licensed certified trainer provides a series of postures to increase flexibility, energy, stillness of mind, focusing on technique and relaxation.
Date
Location
Time
09/24/15
Victory Pointe Housing Community 6750 Ramona Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205
11:00 a.m 12:30 p.m.
Date
Location
Time
09/19/15
10/06/15
Salvation Army Social Services Center of Hope 900 W. Adams Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
River City Marketplace Florida Blue Center 13141 City Station Dr., #106, Jacksonville, FL. 32218
11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
09/26/15
10/28/15
Colonial Village Housing Community 9500 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210
11:00 a.m 12:30 p.m.
River City Marketplace Florida Blue Center 13141 City Station Dr., #106, Jacksonville, FL. 32218
11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
11/04/15
Southwind Villas Housing Community 8711 Newton Road, Jacksonville, FL 32216
11:00 a.m 12:30 p.m.
11/10/15
Anders Park Housing Community 10770 Anders Blvd. #1708, Jacksonville, FL 32216
11:00 a.m 12:30 p.m.
12/08/15
Centennial Townhouses West Housing Community 1261 North Broad Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202
11:00 a.m 12:30 p.m.
12/10/15
Centennial Townhouses East Housing Community 961 North Liberty Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
11:00 a.m 12:30 p.m.
THE FOUNDATIONS OF ESTABLISHING A BUSINESS
Presented by: DCPS Parent Academy Staff This course will provide participants with the basic information on starting a small business. Participants will receive information on how to obtain a business license, how to get resources to start a business and begin writing your business plan.
Date
Location
Time
10/15/15
Fresh Ministries Weaver Center 618 A. Phillip Randolph Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32202
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
11/03/15
Highlands Branch Public Library 1826 Dunn Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32218
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Page 20 • Jax4Kids.com Jax4Kids.com •• AUGUST/SEPTEMBER AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 2015
24 AUGUST
Important Dates August 24, 2015........................First Day of School September 7, 2015....................Labor Day October 30, 2015.......................Planning Day November 11, 2015...................Veterans Day November 25 - 30, 2015...........Thanksgiving/Weather Days Dec 21-Jan 1, 2016...................Winter Break/Weather Days January 18, 2016......................Martin Luther King Day January 22, 2016......................Planning Day February 15, 2016.....................Presidents Day March 18- 28, 2016..................Spring Break/Holidays April 8, 2016..............................Planning Day April 29, 2016............................Schools Closed May 30, 2016............................Memorial Day June 10, 2016...........................Last Day of School
Early Dismissal/ Release Dates
OOLST H C S BACSKK - 8 GENERAL SUPPLY LI
2
Backpack GRADE Pencils Colored Pencils Erasers & Pencil Eraser Tops Ink Pens: Blue, Black and Red ** Crayons * 3 Ring Binders and Dividers ** Color Safe Markers * Composition Books Highlighters Composition Books – Graphing ** Child Safe Scissors * Copy Paper Glue Sticks Graph Paper ** Tissue Flash/Thumb Drive Liquid Hand Soap * Scientific Calculator ** Notebook Paper Ear Buds/Head Phones ** Index Cards Sticky Notes Duo-tang Folders: Pockets and Prongs * Grades K - 5
September.................................9, 23 October.....................................7, 21 November..................................4, 18 December..................................2 January.....................................6, 27 February....................................10, 24 March........................................9, 30 April...........................................13, 27 May...........................................18
** Grades 6 - 8
* Students are dismissed 75 minutes earlier than their normal dismissal time on early release days.
Transportation Information Parents who need to contact Duval County Public Schools for bus stop information or bus related concerns, please call the DCPS Transportation Department at 858-6200. On school days, parents can call from 6 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. for assistance -- early release days until 4:30 p.m. The Contractor Customer Service Facilities can also be contacted to locate a bus or find out the estimated arrival at a bus stop at the following numbers: • • • • •
Westside – Birnie Bus – 683-3432 Southside & Mandarin – Durham School Services – 731-4150 Beaches & Arlington – Student Transportation of America – 720-2177 Northside and Core City – First Student – 751-9828 Northwest – First Student – 598-2880
Page 21 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
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904-724-7544 Page 22 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
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Clay County School News Oakleaf’s Derek Chipoletti Named Coach of Year The Florida High School Athletic Association Board of Directors named Oakleaf head football coach Derek Chipoletti the NFHS Tackle Football Coach of the Year for Florida. Last year, Oakleaf (12-1) enjoyed its first unbeaten regular season in school history, won the district championship and advanced to the third round of the state playoffs before losing to Niceville. Chipoletti took over three seasons ago. He had been coach at Starke Bradford where he led the school to 15-7 record in 2 seasons. Chipoletti became a head coach for the first time in 2009 at Williston.
Principal Changes for New Year Fourteen Clay County schools will have new leaders for 2015-16. • Melanie Sanders is the new principal at Keystone Heights Elementary School. She was assistant principal. • Angela Gentry is now principal at Keystone Heights Junior/Senior High School. She was principal at Wilkinson Elementary School. • Heather Teto is principal at Wilkinson Elementary School. She was assistant principal. • Jennifer Roach is principal at Plantation Oaks Elementary School from being district coordinator of information services. • Amy Dyal is principal at Coppergate Elementary School. She was assistant principal at S. Bryan Jennings Elementary School. • Joyce Orsi is principal at Rideout Elementary School. She was principal at Orange Park Junior High School. • Al De Jesus is principal at Orange Park Junior
High School. He was assistant principal. • David McDonald is principal at Lakeside Junior High School. He was principal at Wilkinson Junior High School. • Christina Cornwell is principal at Wilkinson Junior High School. She was vice principal at Lakeside Junior High School. • Cary Dicks is principal at Clay High School. He was vice principal. • Treasure Pickett is principal at Oakleaf High School. She was principal at Orange Park High School. • Clayton Anderson is principal at Orange Park High School. He was assistant principal. • Becky Murphy is principal at Lake Asbury Junior High School. She was vice principal at Fleming Island High School. • Lana Racine is principal at Clay Virtual Academy. She was assistant principal.
Get Prepared for Bright Futures To be eligible for a Bright Futures scholarship from the state, students must apply for the scholarship by submitting the Florida Financial Aid Application beginning December 1 of their senior year and by no later than August 31 after high school graduation. If a student does not apply for the scholarship by the deadline, a student cannot receive the scholarship! All eligibility requirements must be met by high school graduation, but scores of ACT®/ SAT®/P.E.R.T. tests taken through June 30 are accepted for evaluation purposes. After submitting the application, the student is responsible for tracking application and award status online and keeping the Office of Student Financial Assistance informed of any demographic or institutional changes. The Bright Futures Scholarship will renew automatically each year (up to the scholarship limit) if the student maintains the required GPA and earns the required credit hours. General Requirements: • Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or
eligible noncitizen, as determined by the student’s postsecondary institution. • Complete the Financial Aid Application no later than August 31 after high school graduation. • Earn a standard Florida high school diploma or its equivalent from a Florida public high school or a registered Florida Department of Education private high school. • Not have been found guilty of, or pled nolo contendere to, a felony charge, unless the student has been granted clemency by the governor and cabinet sitting as the Executive Office of Clemency. • Be accepted by and enroll in a degree or certificate program at an eligible Florida public or independent postsecondary institution. • Be enrolled for at least 6 non-remedial semester credit hours (or the equivalent in quarter or clock hours) per term. • If not funded in the academic year immediately following high school graduation, apply within two years of high school graduation to have your award reinstated. See floridastudentfinancialaid.org for complete requirements.
EARLY DISMISSAL DAYS ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Sept. 18, 2015, Oct. 30, 2015, Dec. 18, 2015 Feb. 26, 2016, May 13, 2016 & June 3, 2016 INTERIM REPORT DATES Available thru the Parent Portal Account www.focus/oneclay.net Wednesday……September 16, 2015 Monday............November 16, 2015 Thursday .........February 18, 2016 Friday .............May 6, 2016
REPORT CARD DATES Available thru the Parent Portal Account www.focus/oneclay.net Thursday………….October 15, 2015 Thursday………….January 7, 2016 Thursday………….April 7, 2016 Friday……………...June 3, 2016
Connect with us!
JUNIOR HIGH/HIGH SCHOOLS ONLY Dec. 16, 17, & 18, 2015 June 1, 2, & 3, 2016
CLAY COUNTY SCHOOLS CALENDAR • 2015-2016 Monday, August 10, 2015......................................................................................... First Day, Teacher Wednesday, August 12, 2015...............................................................................District Inservice Day Monday, August 17, 2015........................................................................................First Day, Students Monday, September 7, 2015..........................................................Labor Day, Student/Teacher Holiday Friday, October 9, 2015.................................................................... End First Grading Period (39 days) Monday, October 12, 2015......................................................................Planning Day/Student Holiday Wednesday, November 11, 2015.............................................. Veterans’ Day, Student/Teacher Holiday Monday, November 23 thru Friday, November 27, 2015.......... Thanksgiving, Student/Teacher Holidays Friday, December 18, 2015......................................................... End Second Grading Period (43 days) Monday, December 21, 2015 thru Friday, Jan. 1, 2016... Christmas/New Year’s Break, Student/Teacher Holidays Monday, January 4, 2016..........................................................Planning Day/Student Holiday Tuesday, January 5, 2016...................................................................... Inservice Day/Student Holiday
Page 23 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
Wednesday, January 6, 2016....................................................................... Students Return to School Monday, January 18, 2016......................................... Martin Luther King Day, Student/Teacher Holiday Monday, February 15, 2016.................................................. Presidents’ Day, Student/Teacher Holiday Monday, March 14 through Friday, March 18, 2016..................Spring Break, Student/Teacher Holidays Monday, March 21, 2016............................................................................. Students Return to School Friday, March 25, 2016............................................................... Good Friday, Student/Teacher Holiday Friday, April 1, 2016........................................................................ End Third Grading Period (55 days) Monday, April 4, 2016...............................................................Planning Day/Fair Day, Student Holiday Monday, May 30, 2016.......................................... Memorial Day (Observed), Student/Teacher Holiday Friday, June 3, 2016................................................ Last Day, Students (4th Grading Period – 43 days) Monday, June 6, 2016.....................................................................Last Day, Teachers – Planning Day GRADUATION: May 27, 2016
St. Johns County School District News New Julington Creek Principal Named
Michael Story welcomes Allison Olson Allison Olson is the new principal of Julington Creek Elementary. Olson, former principal of Bear Canyon Elementary in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, replaces Michael Story, who retired after 10 years with the St. Johns County School District. Olson has more than 27 years in education in Utah, California, Virginia and Colorado. She has served as a teacher at both the elementary and middle schools, an assistant principal and a principal. Under her leadership at Bear Canyon Elementary the school was the recipient of the John Irwin Award for Academic Excellence and the Governor’s Distinguished Award for Student
Growth, both for three consecutive years. “I am honored and excited to be joining the St. Johns County School District family and to serve at Julington Creek Elementary as its next principal,” said Allison Olson. “JCE has awesome kids, a strong faculty and a supportive community. I look forward to continuing the goal of excellence that has been so well established, go Jaguars!” Olson hold a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University and a master’s degree from the University of Phoenix.
Districtwide Orientation Set The school district is hosting a districtwide orientation on Friday, August 7 from 8 a.m. to noon. Orientation is an opportunity for students and parents to get supply lists, receive class schedules, and meet teachers. While many schools have scheduled orientations on other dates and times, staff will be available at all schools on Friday, August 7 from 8 a.m. to noon. Parents are encouraged to call or visit the school website to verify any changes in orientation and open house dates. The first day of class for the 2015-2016 school year is Monday, August 10.
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Master School Calendar 2015-2016 SCHOOL YEAR
Monday...................August 3 – 7, 2015................... Teacher Pre-Planning Monday...................August 10, 2015....................... Students Report to Class Monday...................September 7, 2015................... Labor Day- Student/Teacher Holiday ✔ Friday......................October 16, 2015..................... First Quarter Ends Monday...................October 19, 2015..................... Teacher Planning Day-Student Holiday ✔ Wednesday..............November 11, 2015.................. Veterans Day – Student/Teacher Holiday ✔ Thursday – Friday....November 26-27, 2015............ Thanksgiving Break – Student/Teacher Holiday Friday......................December 18, 2015.................. Second Quarter/First Semester Ends (Friday Dec 18*) Monday...................Dec. 21, 2015 – Jan. 4, 2016... Winter Break – Student/Teacher Holiday Tuesday...................January 5, 2016....................... Teacher Planning Day-Student Holiday ✔ Wednesday..............January 6, 2016....................... Classes Resume for Students/Second Semester Begins Monday...................January 18, 2016..................... Martin Luther King Day – Student/Teacher Holiday ✔ Friday......................February 5, 2016...................... Teacher Inservice Day – Student Holiday ✔ Monday...................February 15, 2016.................... Presidents Day – Student/Teacher Holiday ✔ Tuesday...................February 16, 2016.................... Student /Teacher Holiday ✔ Thursday.................March 17, 2016........................ Third Quarter Ends Friday......................March 18, 2016........................ Teacher Planning Day-Student Holiday ✔ Monday...................March 21-28, 2016.................. Spring Break – Student/Teacher Holiday Tuesday...................March 29, 2016........................ Classes Resume for Students Friday......................April 29, 2016.......................... Student /Teacher Holiday ✔ Thursday.................May 26, 2016........................... Last Day for Students* Friday......................May 27, 2016........................... Last Day for Teachers – Teacher Planning Day TBD.........................TBD.......................................... Graduations (Schools/Locations TBD) *ALL Schools will be dismissed 1 hour early on Dec 18, 2015 and May 26, 2016 All Schools participate in a weekly early release on Wednesday: Elementary @1:50, Middle @1:00, High @ 2:45 ✔ Denotes hurricane make-up days Interims Issued: Interims Issued: Interims Issued: Interims Issued:
September 11, 2015 November 13, 2015 February 12, 2016 April 28, 2016
Report Cards: Report Cards: Report Cards: Report Cards:
October 26, 2015 January 11, 2016 April 4, 2016 May 26, 2016
District Wins Public Relations Award The St. Johns County School District has won a Sunshine Medallion Award for excellence in public relations from by the Sunshine State School Public Relations Association. The winning entry was the Secretarial Leadership Conference ’15. This annual statewide conference provides professional development to all public school administrative support professionals including both school-based and district/departmental secretaries and assistants. Six years ago, conference founders Vicki Moody, executive assistant to the superintendent, and Gina Fallica, administrative assistant to the chief financial officer, saw the need for professional development among their peers and developed a conference to provide training to col-
leagues across the state holding the first in 2011. This year’s winning conference was developed by Moody and Fallica along with a five-member team of volunteers from the St. Johns County School District including Miriam Testasecca, executive secretary for the school board; Carolyn Johnson, executive secretary for curriculum services; Rebecca Johnson, executive secretary for professional development; Renee Baker, executive secretary for school services and Danielle Cook, administrative assistant for community relations. The Sunshine Medallion Awards showcase the best public relations projects from public school districts in the state.
Visit St. Johns County Schools online at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/schools/ for more information.
Page 24 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
back to school
Establish a Strong Study Routine at Home A
s a teacher, summer means flexible schedules: impromptu visits to the beach, outdoor parties and vacations. My family loves visiting state and national parks during the summer. This past June, we visited Acadia National Park in Maine. Our daughter, Hayden, voluntarily completed the Junior Ranger program there and was awarded a badge and a patch.
your child can keep working, show his or her work to you, change tasks or take a short break. Another plan of attack involves looking at the week as a whole. Most teachers these days provide a weekly schedule either online or on paper. If not, you can always ask for it. Seeing what’s due when can help your child improve his or her time management skills. Also, if your kids know you’re willing to help them schedule their time, they’ll probably be more cooperative.
Your kids, like mine, probably love summer’s spontaneity, too, but making the transition back to the school routine can be challenging whether A purpose: Involved parents are willing to set and your kids learn in a brick and mortar school, reinforce positive and long-term purposes for online or at home. school. In our household, we try to say positive comments about learning to Hayden. For Here are some tips to help you establish and keep example, I might say, “I can see you followed the a successful school routine: directions very well on this assignment.” When I tutor students, I often ask them to set a purpose A place: Having a designated place in your home and write it down at the beginning of our session. for homework is crucial. Whether you provide a If the student loses focus or gets distracted desk in your child’s room or a blank tabletop in during our time together, we revisit the purpose. the kitchen, your kids will know they have a place You can do the same thing at home to help your to focus on school work. student stay on track. We set up an old wooden school desk in a corner of our dining room for Hayden. I found it at an antique shop on North Main Street. Hayden loves having her own “school” space at home. A plan: As kids progress in school, they bring home more and more school work. One of the best ways to tackle a load is to make a plan. Perhaps your child can break down his or her work into 15 or 30 minute segments. It might help your student focus if you set a kitchen timer for 15 minutes. You could say something like, “Okay, work on your math for 15 minutes. Try to get through the first page.” When the timer dings,
A prize: If your student has had trouble with grades or lacks focus, consider offering prizes if he or she meets certain goals. Giving prizes may also help you set up this year’s study routine. Prizes can be kid-specific. They can range from time to play a video game to a page of stickers. They don’t have to be expensive. Many schools have prize programs, too. Some schools give gift cards to bookstores and restaurants. For example, Hayden won food cards for making straight A’s last year. j
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back to school
Beat the Lunch Blues S chool starts again all too soon for our youngsters. Our hot steamy beach days and lazy summer evenings have made many family memories, but with the end of those long summer nights also comes the excitement of the new school year with all its promises of renewing old friendships and making new ones.
75%) prepare their child’s lunch in the morning before school starts, which can make the morning crazy and can lead you to likely forget something like the necessary ice pack! Hurrying in the morning can also make for a less healthy lunch- your child grabs whatever they can find instead of the foods you want them to take. Pre-package healthy items like raw veggies or whole grain crackers with sliced cheese the night before so these items are available the next morning. When you pre-package items it also encourages portion control so your child will learn appropriate portions sizes.
PACK FOR THE LONG HAUL: More than two-thirds of all kids say they want to eat healthy foods for lunch, but healthy choices don’t have to end at lunch time. Many children who participate in after-school sports or other extra-curricular activities need to refuel to get through these activities until dinner time. Since the ice pack is no longer working after school hours, pack foods which are safe at room temperature. This includes trail mix (you can make your own Doing a little planning ahead for school lunches healthy version), granola bars, carrot and celery can make your life much easier as a parent. Skip sticks, whole pieces of fruit or single-serve fruit/ the morning rush and prepare as much as you applesauce cups, or cans of tuna with whole can the night before. The key to packing a healthy grain crackers. Don’t forget peanut butter as a lunch is to include a variety of lean protein foods, great protein source – try the all-natural peanut whole grains, fruits and vegetables and low fat butter without partially or fully hydrogenated oils dairy products. If your child has a sweet tooth, – send with low-fat graham crackers and your consider packing gelatin cups with fruit or a kids will have a great afternoon snack! pudding cup. It’s also a great idea to get your child into the habit of cleaning out his/her For a do-it-yourself trail mix, try the following lunchbox when they get home from school so you recipe: don’t find any scary leftovers in there the next morning! Ingredients • Oats - toast in the oven on a baking sheet Consider these tips when packing for your child’s with a few drops of vanilla extract or a lunch: sprinkle of cinnamon. • Cheerios KEEP COOL FOR SCHOOL: Perishable foods such • Rice Chex as meats and dairy products should not be left • Almonds or walnuts out of refrigeration for more than two hours. If • Dark Chocolate Chips your children are like mine, they do not have • Pretzels access to a refrigerator at school. Keep your • Dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries child’s lunch safe by packing it in an insulated lunch bag and include an ice pack or two. A Make it a happy, healthy and safe school year! j frozen beverage container (such as bottled water Aurea Thompson, MSH, RD, CSP, LD/N or juice box) can also keep perishables at a safe Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition temperature. Wolfson Children’s Hospital SKIP THE SHORTCUTS: Most parents (close to
“Some of the world’s best educators are Grandparents.” – Charles W. Shedd Page 26 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
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back to school
Favorite Apps for Students S help:
tudents everywhere are preparing to go back to school. There are many apps to
iHomework by Paul Pilone, $1.99 Before the school year begins, students will want to start by getting themselves organized. Keep courses, grades, to-dos, and other information at your fingertips with iHomework. The universal app is integrated with Questria (www.questria. com), which provides you with a wealth of material for all of your researching needs. The app also allows you to sync information across all of your iDevices and your Mac. The app needs a bit of updating when it comes to iCloud support, but if you are still running iOS 6, you will be able to use this function: iTunes U by Apple, free This is a universal app that presents you with material from universities and schools across the globe. There are over 750,000 free books, videos, and lectures available to browse through when you are in need of assistance with your assignments: Dictionary.com. Dictionary.com, LLC, free Now that your homework is organized and you have a wealth of course information on your iDevices, try Dictionary.com when you are looking for what to research or write. Find just about anything that you are looking for with this iPhone app, including medical and science terms. You can also translate up to 30 languages and more. Dictionary.com works on or offline. If you prefer, there is an iPad-only version available. National Geographic World Atlas, by National Geographic Society, $1.99 Students in almost all grades will need to refer to an atlas now and then. Find the location you are seeking with the help of National Geographic World Atlas. Maps are presented in great detail. Get directions, find out what the weather is, or convert currencies. Wikipanion for iPad, by Robert Chin, free Find Wikipedia entries quickly with Wikipanion for iPad. Easily find what you are looking for by using the History and Bookmarking features, browse the table of contents, look up Wiktionary terms from within the current page, and more.
Cooliris by Cooliris, Inc., free Perhaps you are a visual learner. If so, keep Cooliris on your iDevices and view whatever it is that you may be learning or talking about. Regardless of what you are studying in school this year, Cooliris is a universal app that will bring your teacher’s words to life. Evernote by Evernote, free You’ve organized your homework, have course information and other references available, maps that show you the Earth, and photos of what you are seeking. Now you’ll need to take notes. Evernote is a free, universal app in which you may record your notes, either in the classic manner or in the form of photos. Flashcards+ by Connor Zwick, free After taking notes, prepare for each test by making virtual flashcards with Flashcards+. This universal app allows you to create a vast amount of flashcards on any of your iDevices, and will pronounce your information in up to 22 languages. There are sets of flashcards that are premade if you so desire, or of course you can customize your own, as most students will need to do. Dropbox by Dropbox, free Back up all of those important papers with the assistance of powerful Dropbox. It’s as simple as downloading Dropbox onto computer and iDevices. You must create an account, and the first 2 GB of space are free. Access the content which you have saved from within the universal app on your computer or iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch. You will always have all of your papers in one place for class this year. My Grades & Homework, by Roxanne Brittain. $0.99 After all of the hard work you have done this school year, keep track of the grades that you have studied so hard to earn with My Grades & Homework. Calculate your assignment grades, course grades, and GPA. The app has a clean and organized user interface, and is compatible with the above Dropbox app. If you forget to back up your data, there is a feature available for that. Once you have set this feature up, the app will automatically back up your data once per week. Now that you have these resourceful apps at hand, it is up to you to keep up those great grades! j
“There’s no place like home... except Grandma’s.” – Author Unknown Page 27 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
Tips to Help Be Your Best
T
o get ready for another school year here are 10 tips to help you be your best taken from Jon Gordon’s book “Training Camp: What the Best Do Better Than Everyone Else.” 1. KNOW WHAT YOU WANT: A lot of people spend their life being average or good at something, but they don’t strive to be great. The best of the best not only know what they want, but they want it more. 2. WANT IT MORE: Do the things that others won’t do and invest the time others won’t invest, and do so with passion and intent to get better. 3. STRIVE TO BE BETTER: To be the best, you have to be willing to be uncomfortable, and embrace it…Future success is the result of how you work and prepare and practice … a commitment the best make every week, every day, every hour, and every moment. 4. DO ORDINARY THINGS BETTER: Work hard on the right things. You must identify the very “little things” that are fundamental to your success, and then focus on them and practice them. 5. ZOOM-FOCUS: There is no secret recipe. If you incrementally improve each day, each week, each month, by the end of the year you’ll see remarkable results and growth. 6. BE MENTALLY STRONGER: Being mentally strong means you stay positive through adversity (and) resilient when facing pressure, challenges and change. Weed and feed: Each day you need to weed out negativity and feed it positivity. 7. OVERCOME FEARS: Those that succeed, those that reach the pinnacle of greatness, are able to face this battle (overcoming fear) and win. 8. SEIZE THE MOMENT: When the best are in the midst of their performance … they are not interested in what the moment produces, but they are only concerned with what they produce in the moment. 9. LEAVE A LEGACY: You leave a legacy by living and working with a bigger purpose, by making your life about more than just you, by moving from success to significance. 10. MAKE EVERYONE BETTER: The point is to strive to be your best and inspire others, because it’s in the striving where you find greatness, not in the outcome. j
www.jongordon.com www.positiveschool.com
back to school
Vision Screenings an Important Part of Back to School Prep A
s you start your back to school preparations it is important to make sure your child’s eyes are healthy and ready for the new academic year. Vision screenings, when done properly, can successfully identify children with visual impairments or risk factors for poor visual development and allow for early diagnosis and treatment. Vision screenings should be performed throughout childhood, with age appropriate methods. They may be performed by pediatricians, nurses, technicians or lay volunteer groups. Some screeners have the ability to utilize photoscreeners for efficiency and accuracy. Photoscreening uses a camera to take images of
a child’s undilated eyes. The devices estimate refractive error and determine which children are at risk of amblyopia (lazy eye). Photoscreening has advantages to more traditional eye chart acuity screening, and is particularly useful on younger (age 3-5), preverbal children (under age 3) and non-verbal children. Photoscreening requires only brief fixation on a distracting target, and can be completed in less than one minute. Vision screening provides a cost effective and efficient way to identify those who would benefit most from further specialty care. The American Academy of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus outlines a specific screening protocol for each age group (AAPOS Vision Screening Recommendations). If your child fails a vision screening, it is imperative that you proceed with a more complete exam. Even if your child does not appear to have vision difficulties, it is critical to proceed with a comprehensive evaluation. Amblyopia is often asymptomatic and children may not express visual symptoms. Early diagno-
sis and treatment saves vision. If therapy is initiated in a timely fashion, prognosis improves greatly. If your child has a known risk factor for eye disease, symptoms of visual impairment or a family history of ophthalmic problems, a comprehensive evaluation would be appropriate.
A comprehensive eye exam includes examination of ocular alignment, muscle balance and testing of depth perception as well as an assessment of accommodative function (the ability to focus on a near object) and refractive error (determine the need for glasses). A full dilated exam allows examination of the intraocular structures and can rule out congenital anomalies that may affect vision. Pediatric vision problems can go undetected, and, in some cases, can be misdiagnosed as a learning disability or behavioral problem like ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Children with school difficulties may benefit from a comprehensive exam, as visual deficits may greatly impair learning and academic performance.
Don’t Forget Your Child’s Yearly Physical Exam
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n this day and age of the “drive-thru” mentality, speed and price are rarely the best way to approach your children’s physical and mental health. It is important to take a little time to understand the value of a complete yearly physical exam. The complete physical is an in-depth review of past history, mental and physical, and a head to toe examination. The provider performing the exam should be trained to pick up on any abnormalities on either the history or physical that could point to any potential problems.
Children are not just small adults, and their care requires unique skills and training. Pediatric Ophthalmologists are a rare and special group of physicians. There are fewer than 850 active members of the American Academy of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus in the United States. An active member must complete one or two additional years of approved fellowship training following a 3-year residency in comprehensive ophthalmology. Members are certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and must devote at least 75% of their practice to children and adults with strabismus.
The physical also aids the provider in re-examining issues that may have occurred in the past. Parts of the history may be embarrassing to either the patient or the parent, or both. No one likes to discuss bowel movements or bed wetting, and questions about puberty can be uncomfortable. Parts of the physical exam, such as checking the genitals, can seem awkward but they are all extremely important and could help the provider identify something before it becomes When selecting an eye care provider, be sure they a problem. are comfortable with children, and trained specifically in pediatric eye diseases. Identifying ocular problems early allows for recovery of vision. Good vision can boost school performance and learning and enhance the quality of your child’s life. j Dawn Duss MD Pediatric Eye Consultants of N. Florida 240 Ponte Vedra Park Drive, Suite 204 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 904-425-5075 www.kidseyesjax.com
“Perfect love sometimes does not come until the first grandchild.” – Welsh Proverb Page 28 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
The medical professional performing the physical will address any family history, allergies, medications, and social history, so they are documented and can be taken into consideration during decisions about your child’s overall health. Being open and honest is the only way to provide the best information. The provider will address many subjects with teens that are not addressed with the younger children. These subjects include, but are not limited to, illicit substance use, sexual issues, tobacco use and depression screening. Many times the provider may speak to the child alone or with an assistant, for confidentiality, and to gain the child’s trust. If not given the opportunity to speak freely, without fear of consequences, the child may leave the exam without having questions answered or activities that they are involved in addressed. If they are unable to ask questions, a lot of times they will go to their friends or the Internet and get inappropriate guidance. If allowed to speak openly and honestly with their provider, your child may be able to avoid a lot of negative or even dire consequences to their actions. Even if you get into a time crunch and need to get a quick sport’s physical at school, health fair or clinic; it is still highly recommended to get a complete yearly physical to fill any of the missing portions of the history and physical. With today’s busy schedules and hectic lives, it is easy to overlook the importance of a complete yearly physical. Taking the time gives your child the best chance for continued good health. j KENNETH S. COHEN, M.D., FAAP Jacksonville Pediatric Associates www.jacksonvillepeds.com Southside Office 8774 Perimeter Park Blvd Jacksonville, FL 32216 904-642-6100
E Y E C O N S U LTA N T S O F
N O R T H
F L O R I D A
A New Vision in Pediatric Ophthalmology... ...From a Doctor You Already Know and Trust. Dr. Dawn Duss M.D. is pleased to announce the opening of Pediatric Eye Consultants of North Florida, specializing in pediatric
ophthalmology and adult strabismus consultation. She is accepting
strabismus patients of any age (adult and pediatric) and children age 25 and under for ALL eyecare needs.
Visit us at www.kidseyesjax.com for referral and insurance information
(904) 425-5075
back to school
Help Your Children Adjust to School
If your child has previously had significant school related issues (school work completion or grades, behavior concerns, anxiety) and you do not feel oing back to school is a big change. Kids will classroom if there’s an open house before school know if they have homework, parents should be that the school created an adequate plan to be around new peers and new situations. starts. there while their child checks their bags and manage these issues, know that you don’t have The first couple weeks of school will be your folders for any homework to complete for the first to settle for the lack of support. An inadequate child’s first time going into a class with any given For older kids, or kids going to a new school, few weeks. Any work found should be broken into Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 plan teacher, although it might also be their first time they’re aware of the school routine, so it’s just a chunks. Some parents like to have them work for from the school (or a lack of any IEP or 504 plan in a new school, or maybe even their very first matter of preparing themselves to return to a certain amount of time before a break, although at all) fails to provide a helpful and coordinated time to go to any school at all. Regardless of the schoolwork and to meet new people. If there’s an I find that if a child has ADHD or if they don’t like plan to support kids with special needs. Bring it to exact circumstance, there will be a lot of “firsts.” open house before school starts, it would be ideal working, then they will go very slow. For that the attention of school administrators right away. Kids who are returning to their same school for them to go see the class and meet the reason, it’s better to have a short break for 5 If you request a meeting in writing, they are should be encouraged to look for their friends in teacher. Either way, your kids can be reminded of minutes or less after completing each chunk of mandated by law to set up a meeting to review their new class. how they made friends in their first school—inwork—like one worksheet or assignment , then a inadequate plans and/or to discuss the need to troduce themselves, join others who are playing break, followed by another worksheet. During the establish a plan within weeks. If they fail to For preschoolers or kindergarteners going to (or talking), invite others to come play (or talk) break, parents can be checking through the respond to you within a week to offer meeting school for the first time, there are a LOT of with them, to talk about what they did over the homework to find out if there’s anything else to times, then consider asking them again and/or different picture books out there (bookstores, summer, and to spend time with people who are be corrected. When all the work is done, they elevating the issue to a vice-principal or the libraries, kindle). They talk about being around being positive towards them. should be allowed 15-30 minutes of a very fun principal. new kids, new toys and activities, as well as the activity as a reward for working hard! Work is message that teachers can be fun and great A good homework routine is predictable and always more satisfying when it ultimately leads to If your child needs more support, think about helpers for them. Also, parents of children this rewarding. It’s best to establish a consistent time fun time! getting assistance from a psychologist or other age can play a fun game of pretend for 15-30 to start that’s relatively soon after they get home mental health professional—especially if your minutes. You can call it the “going to school from school, since they will be more motivated Also, sleep cycles have often shifted over the child has special needs in schools that are not game” with a prize (sticker, etc.) at the end for complete work if there’s a fun activity afterwards. summer time towards later bedtimes and later being supported. j good participation. In such a game, parents can A small break after school is fine, but it’s a hard wake times. Although school may not start for a have their child walk into the living room, put sell to leave a super fun activity to get started on couple weeks, consider slowly shifting bedtimes Andrew Scherbarth, Ph.D., BCBA-D their backpack into a “cubby” or locker area, homework. Very fun activities should be started and wake times to be early by 15 minutes every Licensed Psychologist | Board Certified Behavior come sit on the rug while the parent reads a after their homework is complete. Homework 2-3 days until you reach the target bedtime to story, get supplies from their bag and go to the should be done in a relatively distraction free allow for a gentle adjustment. Nobody likes a big Analyst Keystone Behavioral Pediatrics table to draw a picture, then possibly go outside environment—that means no TV and nobody else shock to their circadian rhythm and they should and play ball for “recess,” come in for a snack in the family playing a fun game next to them or go off to their first day of school feeling fresh and 6867 Southpoint Drive North, Suite 106 from their lunchbox, then pack up their school in front of them while they have to be doing work. ready to go. Jacksonville, Florida 32216 bag. Last, it would be a good idea to go see the Although some kids are organized enough to Phone: 904.619.6071
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Page 29 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
back to school
How to Help Your Child Improve in School F ifteen ideas parents can use to help children do better in school from Dr. John H. Wherry at The Parent Institute. 1. Put specific times on your calendar each week when you will spend time with your children. During that time, focus your love and attention on your child. 2. Use car time to talk with your children. There’s no phone or television to interfere. No one can get up and leave. And kids know they really have your ear. 3. Help your child start a home library; paperback books are fine. Encourage your child to swap books with friends. Check used book stores. Give books as gifts. Let them see you reading. 4. Build self-esteem. Have children make a “book” about themselves, with their own illustrations and wording. “A Book About Me” is a great way to help your child see themselves as “somebody.” 5. Help your child discover their roots by talking with family members during holiday and other visits. 6. Constantly look for ways to tell your children what you like about them, and that you love them. There is no age limit on this. “When I do something well, no one ever remembers. When I do something wrong, no one ever forgets.” Those words were written by a high school dropout. 7. Help kids learn from problems, not be devastated by them. Many parents don’t ever use the word “failure.” They may talk about a “glitch,” a “problem,” or a “snag.” But even when something doesn’t work out as they’d planned, successful people try to learn something from the experience. 8. For better discipline, speak quietly. If you speak in a normal tone of voice, even when you’re angry, you’ll help your child see how to handle anger appropriately. And if you don’t scream at your kids, they’re less likely to scream at each other or at you. 9. Visit your child’s school in a time of peace before major problems develop.
10. Make report cards a positive experience. Preparation: Ask, “What do you think your report card will tell us?” Getting ready is helpful. Perspective: Understand that a report card is just one small measure of your child. A child with poor grades still has plenty of strengths. Positive action: Find something to praise. Focus on how to improve.
11. Encourage children to read biographies about successful people. As children learn about the traits that made others successful, they are often motivated to adopt those same success patterns in their own lives. 12. Try a simple cardboard box to help make your children responsible for school belongings. Have them choose a place for the box, perhaps near the door or in their room. Every afternoon, their first task should be to place all belongings in the box. When homework is finished, it goes in the box, too. In the morning, the box is the last stop before heading out the door. 13. Help children understand, and take responsibility for, the consequences of their choices: “I chose to do my homework; the result was that I got an ‘A’ on my math test.” “I chose to get up 15 minutes late; the result was that I missed breakfast and nearly missed the bus.” 14. Encourage kids to collect things. Whether they collect rocks, shells, leaves, or bugs is not important. By collecting, children are learning new ways to make sense of their world. 15. Estimating is an important math skill. We estimate how much our groceries will cost. We estimate how much time we’ll need to complete a project at work. You can help your child learn to estimate at home. Here’s one idea: As you’re driving, estimate the distance to your destination. Then estimate how much time it will take to get there. Use the odometer or a map to check your work.j www.rif.org
“Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do. Grandparents sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children.” – Alex Haley Page 30 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
School Supply Shopping Tips D
on’t let that school supply list scare you. Here are easy ways to save on all the school Only Buy What You Need supplies your kids need to have when they head Once you’re in the store, all those fun extras can back to school. break your back-to-school budget. To avoid overspending, determine how you’ll handle your Shop at Home First kids’ requests for non-essentials before you head Before you head to the store, take a walk around out to shop. your house. Things like rulers, pencil boxes, One way is to have your kids pay the difference calculators and backpacks do not need to be between what you’re willing to buy, and what replaced each year. they want to buy. Refuse to give in to the request. Tip: Instead of buying pencils and pens use the It may not make you popular, but it is a chance to free ones that businesses hand out. (Those same teach smart money management. Plain Jane ones that currently take up space in the junk school supplies always cost less than their drawer). fancier counterparts. Buy budget-friendly basics; then, let your child jazz them up with stickers and Shop Around tape. Just because store X wants you to spend all of your back-to-school dollars at their store, doesn’t Buy Quality mean you have to. Get those 10-cent crayons, Don’t just grab the cheapest option available. and get out. Spend some time looking at how things are Tip: Shop at a store that offers price-matching, made, and choose the products that look like and you won’t have to burn up extra gas to get they’re going to last. Go for the backpack with the the good deals at other stores. lifetime warranty; choose the spiral notebooks with the durable plastic covers. You may spend Mark Your Calendar more now, but if you don’t have to buy replaceBe sure to take advantage of Florida Tax Free ments later, you’ll come out way ahead. j Weekend, August 7-16. Shopping on the right days could trim as much as 10 percent off of your frugalliving.about.com back-to-school tab.
back to school
Redo the Classroom, Don’t Break the Bank
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eachers: Here are some hacks, tips and ideas to organize your classroom without breaking the bank! Ideas to add color AND storage • Add some color and storage to an otherwise blank room with Plastic Milk Cartons. Ziptie them together to make them into a cubbywall. • Add black contact paper to old jam jars to create fun pencil/pen jars. Label them with chalk pens. • Need some stools and storage?? Why not create a bunch of bucket seats – literally, transform a bucket into super cute seats. • Glue a pom-pom to the lids of your dry erase markers – you won’t have to hunt for an eraser again! • Cut up a shower board from the hardware store to create mini-white boards for your kids to work with.
DIY Ideas for Organization • Make a collection of floor mats to help kids have a “place” to sit during floor storytime, using old tablecloths. • Store colorful pencils in a half gallon milk jug. Easy to grab what you need and pick up the container and stack to put away. • Separate the various levels of reading books, or other class subjects, with a color system. Each level gets their own color of bucket. Frugal Classroom Tips • Need extra board space?? Or are you a
mobile teacher sharing a classroom with no “home”? Make a tri-fold white board to bring with you. • Don’t spend a fortune on organization. You can re-purpose cereal boxes with a bit of wrapping paper to become classy magazine holders. • Use containers of hand-sanitizer as a Bathroom Hall Pass. • Help your kids develop self-control with the help of calm-down-jars. You can also use these as timers for reading time, or turns between stations. • Say goodbye to glue sticks. They get dried out, make a sticky mess. Use small tubs with a sponge-saturated with regular school glue. • Drop old markers into a small container of water. The water will turn the color of the markers and you have watercolor ink. We’ve made ink this way – it really works! • Paint the file cabinet with chalk board paint and label what’s inside. • No more scratching and screeching chairs! Slice a tennis ball and put them on the bottom of the seat polls. • Have a “book hospital” – a place to put books with tears so you can tape and “save” them. • Hang an organizer from your whiteboard with easy-to-access prompts and aids. • Get a quality tote – with deep pockets, perfect for carrying folders, projects and supplies back and forth. j kidsactivitiesblog.com
Watch Out for Ear Infections
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ummer is just about over and with the advent of fall comes parents’ worries about a child falling victim to colds, coughs and ear infections. In addition to a child’s discomfort and parent’s missed work days, repeated ear infections (otitis media) can also impact a child’s speech and hearing. Children with communication disorders frequently do not perform at grade level. They may struggle with reading, have difficulty understanding and expressing language, misunderstand social cues, avoid attending school, show poor judgment, and have difficulty with tests. Difficulty in learning to listen, speak, read, or write can result from problems in language development. Problems can occur in the production, comprehension, and awareness of language sounds, syllables, words, sentences, and conversation. Individuals with reading and writing problems also may have trouble using language to communicate, think, and learn. “Fluid in the ear can make it harder for your child to hear,” said Fenja Mattson, Ph.D., audiologist for Jacksonville Speech and Hearing Center. “Because this fluid can remain in the middle ear for a long period of time, a child may miss out on
things that influence speech and language development.” Physicians need to treat the ear infection immediately. However, if your child has frequently recurring infections or fluid in the ear, he/she may need to be seen by an audiologist and a speechlanguage therapist. “Children seem to have the most problems with ear infections up to age three,” said Dorothy Train-Marsh, MCD, CCC-SLP, speech language therapist at Jacksonville Speech and Hearing Center. “Chronic ear infections can affect a child’s ability to enunciate sounds clearly. We work with many children who need to catch up on their speech patterns after frequent bouts of otitis media.” The American Speech-Language Hearing Association, www.asha.org, has a chart for parents to view that details if a child is achieving age appropriate milestones in language development. For more information about your child’s speech and hearing, visit www.shcjax.org or call 904-355-3403 to make an appointment at Jacksonville Speech and Hearing Center. j
Page 31 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
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back to school
Get That Bike Ready for School
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ack to school time – pencils, books, new clothes, and kids on bikes. While bike riding is an excellent form of exercise for kids, it can be dangerous. Here are some bicycle safety tips: 1. Inspect Your Child’s Bike You’ll want to look over the brakes, wheel alignment, seat, handlebars, pedals, tires, axle nuts and bearings and chain. If needed, replace, tighten or adjust any and all bike components. (If you feel you don’t have the knowledge to do this effectively, take it to a bike shop.) 2. Insist on a Helmet They may not be the most comfortable or fashionable item, but helmets are essential to safe bike riding. Head injury is the leading cause of death in cycling accidents, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that proper use of helmets by kids ages 4 to 15 would prevent around 45,000 head injuries annually. Insist that your child wear a helmet. 3. Ride Smart Teach your child to choose the best route to a destination. For instance, avoid busy roads when there are quieter routes to the same place. If possible, ride on bike paths. Always observe stop signs (even if no other vehicle is visible), yield signs and other traffic markers. Use extra caution when passing driveways and entrances to businesses and housing developments and when riding in parking lots. Encourage him to walk his bike across busy intersections.
4. Signal Your Intentions Teach your child to use proper hand signals to alert others of his intentions: • Left turn: left hand and arm held straight out, pointing left • Right turn: left hand and arm held straight up or right arm held straight out, pointing right • Stop: left hand and arm held straight down 5. Road Safety Talk with your child about basic road safety when riding a bike. For instance, teach her to ride with (not against) traffic and on the right side of the road. Ride with someone else if possible, and always ride single file. Never attempt to ride on the handlebars of someone else’s bike or invite a friend to try riding on your bike while you’re driving it. 6. Reflect on It Encourage your child not to ride his bike when it’s not daylight out. If he does need to ride in the early morning or evening hours, make sure his bike is equipped with reflectors. Wearing neon, bright or reflective clothing is a good idea as well, as is a headlight for the bike. Each year, there are 800 bicycle related deaths in the United States, as well as a half million bicycle related injuries resulting in emergency room visits. With education and proper training, you can help your child avoid becoming a statistic. j
School Wins New Playground
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VPV/Rawlings Elementary School has received a new playground that will provide the same experience for its kindergarten through 5th grade students that was available to fans during tournament week this year at The Players golf championship. “The Imagination Playground was a hit during the tournament, and its unique, creative design will make a wonderful addition to the playground at PVPV/Rawlings Elementary School,” said Matt Rapp, executive director of The Players. Connected to the McKenzie Noelle Wilson Foundation Kids Zone, Imagination Playground was featured at the tournament with its breakthrough play space concept designed to encourage child-directed, unstructured free play. Parents were able to bring their children to the shaded and fenced area and sit at umbrella-covered tables while supervising their children’s activities as they burned off steam before returning to the course as spectators. Created by architect and designer David Rockwell
and the Rockwell Group, Imagination Playground enables children to play, dream, build and explore endless possibilities. The concept transforms children’s minds, bodies and spirits through play. As part of the PVPV/Rawlings Elementary School curriculum, the school focuses on developing critical thinkers and problem solvers, a goal that synchs well with the Imagination Playground. All fans that stopped by were free to submit the names of schools and day cares for a chance to win the Imagination Playground. Rapp drew the winning form on Sunday afternoon during the tournament. Denise Kelly, a kindergarten teacher at PVPV/Rawlings, had submitted the winner and her class was the first to play with the Imagination Playground. “We are thrilled to gain equipment from the Imagination Playground, as it will allow us to enhance and reinforce our educational goals such as building students’ ability to solve problems and think critically,” Kathleen Furness, PVPVRamlings principal, said. j
Page 32 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
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EDUCATION
Monitoring the Media Diet M
edia is everywhere. TV, Internet, computer and video games all vie for our children’s attention. Information at the American Academy of Pediatrics website can help parents understand the impact media has in their children’s lives, while offering tips on managing time spent with various media. It has recommendations for both parents and pediatricians. Today’s children are spending an average of seven hours a day on entertainment media, including televisions, computers, phones and other electronic devices. To help kids make wise media choices, parents should monitor their media diet. Parents can make use of established ratings systems for shows, movies and games to avoid inappropriate content, such as violence, explicit sexual content or glorified tobacco and alcohol use.
Studies have shown that excessive media use can lead to attention problems, school difficulties, sleep and eating disorders, and obesity. In addition, the Internet and cell phones can provide platforms for illicit and risky behaviors. By limiting screen time and offering educational
media and non-electronic formats such as books, newspapers and board games, and watching television with their children, parents can help guide their children’s media experience. Putting questionable content into context and teaching kids about advertising contributes to their media literacy. The AAP recommends that parents establish “screen-free” zones at home by making sure there are no televisions, computers or video games in children’s bedrooms, and by turning off the TV during dinner. Children and teens should engage with entertainment media for no more than one or two hours per day, and that should be high-quality content. It is important for kids to spend time on outdoor play, reading, hobbies, and using their imaginations in free play. Television and other entertainment media should be avoided for infants and children under age 2. A child’s brain develops rapidly during these first years, and young children learn best by interacting with people, not screens. j aap.org
Fourth Graders to Get Free Park Pass D
id you know that you own millions of acres of national parks, historic structures, cultural artifacts, ancient forests, snow-capped mountains, and clear blue lakes? Our public lands and waters belong to all Americans and are waiting for you to explore them! To help engage and create our next generation of park visitors, supporters and advocates, The National Park Foundation is kicking off the Every Kid in a Park initiative. The immediate goal is to provide an opportunity for each and every 4th grade student across the country to experience their public lands and waters in person throughout the 2015-2016 school year.
to national parks, national forests, national wildlife refuges, and more! The Every Kid in a Park pass will be available for the 2015-2016 school year. Every Kid in a Park joins the Foundation’s Open Outdoors for Kids program in helping children learn history, culture, and science while exploring the great outdoors. The initiative is an administration-wide effort among the National Park Service, Forest Service, Department of Education, Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Land Management, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclamation, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. j
Soon, you will have access to your own Every Kid in a Park pass. This pass will give you free access nationalparks.org/ook/every-kid-in-a-park
“The measure of our success will not be determined by how we act during the great times in our life but rather by how we think and respond to the challenges of our most difficult moments.”
– Jon Gordon Page 34 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
Check Out College Scorecard H ey, seniors. It’s time to begin thinking about college.
College Scorecard in the U.S. Department of Education’s College Affordability and Transparency Center make it easier for you to search for a college that is a good fit for you. You can use the College Scorecard to find out more about a college’s affordability and value so you can make more informed decisions about which college to attend. To start go to collegecost.ed.gov/scorecard. Then enter the name of a college of interest to you or select factors that are important in your college search. You can find scorecards for colleges based on factors such as programs or majors offered, location, and enrollment size. You can
also search for and compare colleges on all sorts of criteria including costs, majors offered, size of school, campus safety, and graduation rates. The site highlights institutions with high and low tuition and fees as well as high and low net prices (the price of attendance minus grant and scholarship aid) and it shows institutions where tuition and fees and net prices are increasing at the highest rates. You will also find links to colleges’ net price calculators, which help you estimate how much colleges cost after scholarships and grants, as well as information on changes in state appropriations for postsecondary education, state aid for students, and tuition and fees. j
Reminder: Grandparent’s Day September 13
EDUCATION
A Creative Curriculum with Heart
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f you’ve ever wondered how a child would define ‘compassion,’ the “Compassion Through the Eyes of Children” project in St. Augustine satisfies that curiosity beautifully.
obelisk in February. Art teachers then guided fourth-graders through all project phases to create a meaningful work of art. The project allowed students to add their own legacy to the 450th celebrations and events while creating an elevated awareness of compassion in their daily lives.
Through participating in this unique art project, St. Johns County elementary school students came to the conclusion that compassion is synonymous with kindness, forgiveness, empathy, “The impact on these children is probably the love and much more. biggest legacy of all,” Bagnal said. Kylie Lubrant, the daughter of art teacher Jodi Lubrant at Durbin Creek Elementary happily showed off the fruits of her groups’ labors. The students used clay to create symbols of peace, love and compassion.
As a powerful tribute to the 450th Commemoration of St. Augustine’s founding by Spanish explorer Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles in 1565, the non-profit group, Compassionate St. Augustine planned the professional public art initiative, Obelisk Art 450. Based on the values of compassion, freedom, democracy and human rights, the project involves 25 renowned artists creatively interpreting these values for a “Tour of Compassion” on 25 historically significant sites around the nation’s oldest city this fall. Their three-dimensional canvas is an 8-foot scaled-down wood-and-fiberglass replica of the Spanish Constitution Monument obelisk. The full-size obelisk is historically significant to St. Augustine and commands a prominent spot in the city’s Plaza de Constitution. But while project manager Joel Bagnal, a local goldsmith, was making a half-size obelisk prototype in his woodshop, he realized this smaller version was perfectly “child-sized.” “I thought, why don’t we involve the children in this?” Bagnal said. Ideas quickly became plans and “Compassion Through the Eyes of Children,” became the elementary school project component. “What’s really striking and amazing to me is to see how the seed of an idea grows and grows on its own and then blooms into something this incredible.”
The art-with-heart project turned into a lesson in emotional intelligence, a strong team-building exercise, and an expression of young hearts that inspire hope for the future. Every obelisk was a deeply moving love-letter to the community and the world. Leaving a legacy of compassion for the next generation was always a big goal of the project, according to Caren Goldman, executive director and co-founder of Compassionate St. Augustine. “We wanted to give the children a chance to participate in the 450th festivities. We wanted them to know they didn’t have to wait to grow up to make a difference and do something for others. The lessons taught here will live on in word and deed for generations to come,” she added. The finished obelisks will be shown alongside the professional obelisks in the Crisp-Ellert Museum at Flagler College in September. Even though the directions were identical, each school’s obelisk turned out remarkably different. From paint, to clay to mosaic tiles, a dazzling and diverse array of colors, styles, textures, and materials were used. The obelisk made by Florida School for the Deaf and Blind students incorporated braille plates. “This project gave hundreds of children a hands-on, transformative learning experience that enlivens our mission to inspire, influence, and create a culture of compassion through advocacy, awareness and action,” Goldman said. “These concepts can be taught to people of all ages. It especially resonates with children who learn holistically. These lessons involve the mind, heart and spirit.” The children’s’ project directly involved more than 400 fourth-grade students, with nearly 9,000 other students coming into contact with the obelisks. Fourth-graders were chosen to participate because it was a meaningful complement to their Florida history curriculum. For more information visit www.compassionstaugustine. com or staugustine-450.com. j
Each of the 28 elementary schools (public, private and charter schools) were given a 4-foot blank
Page 35 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
That’s MY Job!
Barbara Gay – Art Teacher - Children’s Art Classes How long have you been an art teacher? I began teaching art upon graduation from college, 40 years ago. I taught art in public schools in Wisconsin, Montana, and Frankfurt, Germany. I took time off for 7 years to raise my daughters. After they started school, I taught another 20 years in New Mexico, where I retired from public education. I opened my private art school, Children’s Art Classes while I was still teaching. I have been in Jacksonville for 6 years. Children’s Art Classes has 2 locations where I now teach with my daughters, Stephanie and Jessica. Why did you choose this career? This career chose me. I was born with God’s gift to teach, and it was absolutely clear to me by age 5. Because art was what I always loved, it made sense for me to choose that area in which to teach. What kind of education did you get to become an art teacher? I received a B.A. in Education, and also picked up a B.S. along the way. I got my degrees in Wisconsin, and actually began my teaching career in that, my home state. What are some of your responsibilities? As a business owner, as well as teacher, I wear many hats! I maintain 2 facilities, do the scheduling, advertising, ordering of supplies, mount art work for our annual show, do the finances, update curriculum, and continue to teach. Our annual art show at Children’s Art Classes is a major event, and requires many hours of preparation. We do this to honor and give recognition to our students!
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What do you like most about your job? I love the fact that teaching has NEVER been a job to me. I love what I do, and appreciate the journey that I continue to be on! I have learned so much from my students, and have enjoyed teaching the CHILDREN of my past students! I love the passion and creativity that I have been surrounded with. I have taken many of my students to places such as N.Y. City, San Francisco, Chicago, and Phoenix. I have helped many talented students attain college scholarships. At this point in time, I absolutely love and appreciate working with both of my daughters, in what has been an integral part of all of our lives! It is an unbelievable joy to me that my grandchildren are now young artists, attending our studio art classes, and having their Grandma as their teacher!
Tax Holiday 2015 Back to School Sales Tax Holiday August 7 – 16 No sales tax charged on school supplies of $15 or less, clothing and shoes priced at $100 or less, and on the first $750 of personal computers and related items. This holiday begins at 12:01am on Friday, August 7, 2015, and ends at 11:59pm on Sunday, August 16, 2015.
teens
More Students Saving for College
H
igh school students from across the country are taking a pro-active approach to planning and paying for their higher education – with a bolder emphasis on working, saving, and managing costs. The College Savings Foundation’s sixth annual How Youth Plan to Pay for College survey of high school seniors, juniors and sophomores across the country found they showed both the will and the way to fund higher education, including greater use of 529 college savings plans.
67 percent last year) and that includes 50 percent saving between $1,000 - $5,000 and 33 percent who have socked away more than $5,000. Both students and their parents are utilizing 529 plans: 33 percent of all students say that either they or their parents are using a 529 (up from 24 percent last year).
Of those students who are saving, 24 percent say that 529 college savings plans are their primary way of saving for higher education costs – up from 10 percent last year. “We are very encourThis year as in previous years, the vast majority aged to see that high school students are taking – 82 percent – believe it is their responsibility to financing of higher education seriously and have pay for at least part of their higher education; and already shown themselves to be active planners three quarters of students plan on paying for at and savers,” said Mary Morris, Chair of CSF, a least part of it. The difference this year, is those leading nonprofit helping American families save students will pay for more: 71 percent plan to pay for their children’s college education. Students for over 25 percent of college costs, compared to are also taking practical approaches to savings: 53 percent last year. 40 percent are willing to forgo material things for college savings (versus 28 percent last year). To get there, 51 percent are already saving for Nearly half, 49 percent, have jobs to help pay higher education, up from 44 percent last year. for college – up from 41 percent last year. Once Additionally, those savers are amassing signifithey get to college, many plan to work full or part cantly more: 83 percent of savers have already time, even though it may cause some of them put aside at least $1,000 this year (compared to to lose their full-time student status. Fifty-nine
percent are planning to work compared to 51 percent last year; and 23 percent of students expecting to work say that this will force them to become a part-time student, compared to 15 percent last year.
While students are resisting the overhang of student loans – 55 percent intend on borrowing, down from 72 percent last year – those who must borrow expect to increase their debt load. Sixty-five percent of borrowers will need to borrow more than a quarter of their total educaRespondents were attuned to the effect of costs tion costs, compared to 47 percent of students on their college choices. Overall, half of respon- borrowing last year. They have other worries dents expect to attend public college, 19 percent about the long-term effect of loans: 84 percent community college – exceeding private college of prospective borrowers are concerned about at 16 percent – and five percent vocational or paying back loans, and 52 percent expect to career programs (the remainder in none or other require 6-10 years to pay them off (up from 42 categories such as the military). Seventeen percent last year). Perhaps these anxieties are percent of all respondents expect to take a gap driving savings behaviors: 83 percent said that year. Nearly a quarter – 23 percent – of all stupersonal savings would have an impact on the dents said that they have had to limit their higher final dollar amount of loans they would require. education choices because of costs (19 percent Regarding financial aid, 84 percent expect to tap last year) – with 61 percent of those changing to into it to help pay for college. Most, 89 percent, community college, up from 50 percent last year. are savvy in understanding that the student loan Students’ perceptions of higher education options part of financial aid requires repayment over are also shifting. Even though only five percent time. Seventy-eight percent expect to receive a expect to attend vocation or career schools, 42 scholarship. j percent of all students think of them in the same way as private and public college – double the 21 Collegesavingsfoundation.org percent last year.
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Page 36 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
pets
How to Tell If Your Dog Loves You E ver wonder, “Does my dog love me?” As humans, we have endless opportunities to tell our dogs we love them. From belly scratches to feeding them their favorite late night snack, it’s natural to believe our dogs always know exactly how much we care. Though it’s easy for us to display our love to our pets, how do we know they really feel the same? Fido may not be able to come home from a long day at work with a bouquet of fresh roses to say “I love you,” but there are many small movements he can make to truly declare his love. You just need to look for them. If he performs any (or all!) of the below points, all signs point to your dog showing his or her unwavering love. He Goes Crazy When You Come Home We’ve all seen this before, you walk in the front door and you are eagerly greeted by your dog, tail wagging with a toy in his mouth (and probably lots of jumping too!). This is love in its truest form. Your dog is literally displaying his excitement to see you in any way he can. However, according to the Wall Street Journal Blog, if your dog seems to do this each time someone walks into the house, he may be a bit “promiscuous” and this may not be the strongest determining factor as to whether Fido thinks you are “the one.” Eyebrow Movement According to Care2.com, a dog’s love isn’t all about tail wagging, but instead, facial expressions. In a recent study in Japan, dogs were introduced to their parent, a stranger, a dog toy, and an item they disapproved of. When seeing their parent, the dogs immediately lifted their eyebrows (especially their left), and when they saw a stranger there was significantly less facial movement, and movement of the right brow. Similarly, when seeing someone they knew and were bonded to, the dogs shifted their left ear back, if it was an item they disliked, they shifted their right. According to the study, this suggests the dog is likely more reserved when meeting someone new, or seeing something they dislike.
He Really Looks at You In a recent 60-Minutes segment on CBS, Anderson Cooper met with Brian Hare, a wellknown dog expert, to discuss a dog’s love. According to this segment, when your dog looks you in the eye, he is “hugging you with his eyes.” As said by Hare, when looking at you, or you are playing with one another, oxytocin is released, a hormone that helps new mothers bond with their babies. This eye contact truly indicates your dog’s love for you. We don’t recommend you have a staring contest with Fido the first 10 minutes you get home tonight. He will immediately sense something is different, and will likely look away. Instead, take time to try to maintain eye contact throughout the day and see how your dog responds. He Yawns With You We’ve all heard that yawning is contagious, and have experienced the inevitable yawn, when a friend yawns while is talking to you (Did you just yawn? Even reading about yawning can make you yawn!). But, did you know that dogs experience the same contagious sensation? According Live Science, in a recent study it is stated that when humans yawn it is due to the fact that humans are empathetic, and sense the yawn in their peer. It’s nearly impossible to measure if dogs are empathetic, but it is likely that this yawning symbolizes a bond to their human. In this study, dogs were more likely to yawn when their owners yawned, as opposed to a stranger. Test this out at home, but don’t be discouraged if Fido doesn’t yawn back immediately—he may not realize you’re yawning and just wonder why you’re showing him your grin.
Things to Do Pet Events
Dog Days of Summer August 5, 5:30pm to 7:30pm Yappy Hour is now Dog Days of Summer! Bring your dog to FYC for a little doggie socializing! BYOB (Bring Your Own Bone) and plan to stay for dinner on the Patio. All dogs must stay on their leash. Dogs are not permitted on the Pool Deck. Florida Yacht Club / 904-387-1653 / 5210 Yacht Club Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210 / www. thefloridayachtclub.org Katz 4 Keeps Adoption Event August 8 – 9, 11am to 3pm August 22 – 23, 11am to 3pm Katz 4 Keeps conducts a full medical examination on every cat and kitten that enters the facility. Their medical staff includes veterinarians and an on-site vet technician. All cats and kittens receive inoculations, spay or neuter, and any other medical treatments necessary before they are permitted to be adopted. Katz 4 Keeps’ goal is to provide the best medical and social care possible for cats and kittens before finding the right home for each one. Katz 4 Keeps / 904-834-3223 / 935 A1A N Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / katz4keeps.org
quick, convenient vaccinations by licensed vets right in the store. Petco / 11900 Atlantic Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.petco.com Fast & Furriest Run and Walk August 29, 8am to 12noon Fast & Furriest 4 Mile Run and 2 Mile Walk to benefit the Flagler Humane Society. No pets will be allowed on the run, but will be allowed on the walk. All dogs MUST be on a leash and be current with vaccinations. The walk is not timed. The 4 mile run starts at 8am, followed by the walk at 10:30am. Registration fees range from $25 to $30. Flagler Humane Society / Princess Place Preserve, 2500 Princess Place Road Palm Coast, FL 32137 / www.flaglerhumanesociety.org Strutt Your Mutt September 26, 8:45am A leisurely fundraising dog walk, or (new this year) a 5K run with (or without) your dog, followed by a doggie-themed festival that includes pet contests, photos, doggie goodies, fun activities for you and your furry friend, food, refreshments and more. Funds raised benefit homeless pets. Registration opens at 8am. Register online. Best Friends Animal Society / Riverside Park, 753 Park St. Jacksonville FL 32204 / www. strutyourmutt.org
Things to Do 1/4 pageFacebook ad page Like Jax4Pets.com’s at facebook.com/jax4pets to find out Artist about other eventsSeries for pets. 1/4
Affordable Vaccination Clinics August 9, 1:30pm to 2:30pm August 23, 1:30pm to 2:30pm Help keep your pet healthy and protected with
do you experience
migraine headaches? Physicians at Jacksonville Center for Clinical Research are seeking volunteers for a clinical research study that will
There are plenty of “scientific” ways to confirm your dog loves you, but we believe these reactions vary from dog-to-dog. The truest way to know if your dog loves you? You just know. Whether he perks his ears when he hears your voice, looks meek when you leave but jumps uncontrollably when you get home, or cuddles up next to you any chance he can, we’re pretty sure his heart is 100% yours. j
evaluate an investigational medication to determine if it can prevent migraines. You may be eligible to participate if: You are between 18 and 65 years old You have had migraine headaches for
Lauren Boriotti, Rover.com
at least 1 year
“Promise me you’ll always remember: You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” – A. A. Milne Page 37 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
You have between 4 and 15 migraine For more information about this clinical trial call:
JACKSONVILLE CENTER FOR CLINICAL RESEARCH
(904) 730-0166 www.jaxresearch.com
headaches per month on average Qualified participants will receive
study-related medication, study-related medical exams at no cost, and compensation for time and travel.
things to do 2015 Back to School Sales Tax Holiday August 7 – 16 No sales tax charged on school supplies of $15 or less, clothing and shoes priced at $100 or less, and on the first $750 of personal computers and related items. This holiday begins at 12:01am on Friday, August 7, 2015, and ends at 11:59pm on Sunday, August 16, 2015. State of Florida / dor.myflorida.com Beginning Sign Language August 6, 11am • August 13, 11am • August 20, 11am • August 27, 11am Learn sign language at the library with other beginners. St. Johns County Public Library / Hastings Branch, 6195 S. Main St. Hastings, FL 32145 / www.sjcpls. org Night Owl Cinema Movie Series August 7, 8pm Night Owl Cinema Movie Series returns to the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Families are invited for free movies on select nights during the summer. Gates open at 7pm; movie starts at 8pm. Tonight’s movie is Babe. St. Augustine Amphitheatre / 1340C A1A South St. Augustine, FL 32080 / staugamp.sjcvenues.com Friends of the Library Book Sale August 7 – 8 The Main Library book sale features books of all kinds and items such as DVDs, CDs, and audio books. Hardback books cost $1.00 and paperbacks cost $.50, with many children’s books priced even lower. All sale proceeds support programs and other needs of the Main Library. St. Johns County Public Library / Main Branch Library, 1960 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd. St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.sjcpls.org
As a gift to you, there will be a $2 off general admission coupon; check website for coupon. As a gift to Jazoo, consider bringing something from the enrichment wishlist. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / www.jacksonvillezoo.org Water Fun With a Purpose August 8 – 9, 12noon to 4:30pm August 15 – 16, 12noon to 4:30pm Water Fun with a purpose is a fund-raising event. The goal and purpose is to provide clean, safe family fun while raising funds to provide fresh water wells to regions in dire need. Current project designated in Las Salinas Nicaragua. Admission is by donation, suggested $10 per family per visit. Concession stand also on sight with real Hawaiian shave ice, all-beef hot dogs, grilled sliders, refreshments and snacks. Covered tents with picnic tables also on site. Every Saturday and Sunday, from 12noon to 4:30pm, through Aug. 30th. All ages from toddlers to adults. The event features Jacksonville’s largest (3-story) blow-up water slide along with 3 others, plus extra large bounce house. New this year are 5 different photo ops, horse shoes and corn hole. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. There is a signin/arm-band and registration process. Isle of Faith United Methodist Church / 904-2211700 / 1821 San Pablo Road S, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / iofumc.org
Elementary Engineering Days August 8, 1:30pm to 3:30pm Growin’GEERS hosts this live event to introduce your elementary-aged child to engineering through fun, hands-on activities that introduce specific engineering concepts within a variety of engineering disciplines. Within each quest, your child will be encouraged to exercise three important skills: creativity, problem solving, and teamwork. Tickets ELC Duval’s Birth to 5K Race/Run/Walk MUST be purchased online prior to the event. This August 8, 8am event is best suited for 2nd-5th grade students. Unity Plaza presents ELC Duval’s Birth to 5K Race/ Parents must stay with their children for the entire Run/Walk, a first-year 5K with a fun run/walk after event. Tickets are $25, with a $2.37 fee. the race. There will be a 5k run/walk starting at Growin’GEERS / Ramada Jacksonville Hotel, 8am. At 9am, join Jax4Kids.com for a one mile fun 3130 Hartley Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www. run/walk. Fees for the fun run are ages 9 and un- growingeers.com der, $1 Per Year of Child; and Ages 10 and above, $10. Unity Plaza will host a Children’s Festival Starry Nights – Music in the Park immediately following the Fun Run/Walk. August 8, 6pm to 8pm Early Learning Coalition of Duval / Unity Plaza, 220 Starry Nights – Music in the Park provides riverside Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www. entertainment at the St. Marys Waterfront Park. elcduval.org The series features a variety of performances at an outdoor venue. Attendees are welcome to bring O2B Kids Back to School Bash a picnic basket, blanket and lawn chairs. Free and August 8, 9:30am open to all ages, this event is held from 6pm to O2B Kids hosts a free Back to School Bash. 8pm. City of St. Marys / 912-882-4000 / St. Marys Activities include a bounce house, face painting, Waterfront Park, 205 West St. Marys Street, St. obstacle course, slime wall fun, and more. There Marys, GA 31558 / www.visitstmarys.com will also be free back to school supplies. O2B Kids / 904-264-4202 / 1821 Town Center Blvd, Orange Munchkin Monday Matinee Park, FL 32002 / www.o2bkids.com August 10, 12noon August 17, 12noon Jazoo ‘s 10th Birthday and Back to School The Corazon Cinema and Cafe offers a Munchkin Bash Monday Matinee each Monday thru the summer. August 8, 10am to 4pm There will be a screening of a film along with a Join Jazoo and his friends for a party to celebrate lunch package that includes a choice of a hot dog the end of summer and Jazoo’s 10th birthday at or grilled cheese sandwich with popcorn and a our Back to School Bash. The party will be in Play water bottle. Cost is $10 for lunch and movie. Park with activities from 10am to 4pm. There will Children under 12 years old must be accompanied be a DJ, scavenger hunt, mascot friends from by an adult. Adults can order a sandwich off the around town and more. Bring your suit and towel, menu with popcorn and a water bottle with movie you’re going to get wet! included. Groups are welcome, but please call
Page 38 • Jax4Kids.com • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015
Live On Stage! OCTOBER 21-26 OPENING NIGHT IS CHASE FAMILY NIGHT ON BROADWAY
BUY ONE ADULT TICKET, GET THE CHILD’S TICKET FREE* PASSCODE: CHILD
5 Performances Only! Jacksonville’s
October 9-11 Times-Union Center
*Offer is 50 percent off per ticket plus facility fee and service charge; facility and service charge not discounted. Valid for October 21 performance only. Subject to availability. Restrictions apply, not valid on previously purchased tickets, and cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer may be withdrawn at any time or expires 10/21 at 3PM. Family Night Offer valid in PL2 and PL3.
ahead. August 10th – Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants August 17th – Nanny McPhee Corazon Cinema and Cafe / 904-679-5736 / 36 Granada Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www. corazoncinemaandcafe.com
Jacksonville Suns vs. Mobile BayBears August 18 – 22 The Jacksonville Suns take on the Mobile BayBears. Tickets start at $4.67, before fees. August 18, 7:05pm – Fifty-cent Family Feast August 19, 7:05pm – Winn-Dixie Wednesday Youth and Kids Career Day August 20, 7:05pm – College ID Night August 12, 10am to 12noon August 21, 7:05pm – Friday Family Fireworks The City of Atlantic Beach is hosting a Youth and August 22, 7:05pm – Bark in the Park / Christmas Kids Career Day for all youths, aged 18 years and in August / Peppermint Striped Cap Giveaway under, and their parents. City of Atlantic Beach / Public parking costs $7 and is controlled by the 904-588-5517 / Donner Park, 2072 George Street, City of Jacksonville. Garage parking is also availAtlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.coab.us able next to the Veterans Memorial Arena for $7. Prices are subject to change depending on events Jacksonville Jaguars Preseason Home Game at the Sports Complex. August 14, 7:30pm Jacksonville Suns / Baseball Grounds of JacksonPreseason home game vs. Pittsburgh Steelers. ville, 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd., Jacksonville, FL Single game tickets and season tickets are avail32202 / www.milb.com able. Visit website for a pricing chart. Visit www. jaguars.com for a list of prohibited items, including Pump It Up Back to School Balloon Bash the new bag policy. Be sure to sign up for the Ju- August 19, 10:30am to 12:30pm nior Jags Club, for age 4 to 12 at www.juniorjags. Celebrate going back to school with Pump It Up’s com and Jaguars Cub Club for newborns to age 3 Balloon Bash. Each balloon has a prize with one at www.jaguarscubclub.com. grand prize, $100 off a party or towards open jump Jacksonville Jaguars / Everbank Field, 1 Everbank passes. The first 50 kids get a goodie bag with Field Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaguars. back to school supplies. com Pump It Up Jacksonville / 904-646-1441 / 11840 Beach Blvd Ste 10 Jacksonville, FL 32246 / pumEnd of Summer Family Game Day pitupparty.com/event-calendar/jacksonville-fl August 15, 1pm to 4pm Skate Station Funworks Orange Park hosts an End Back to School Bash at RAM of Summer Family Game Day. Activities include August 22, 10am – 4pm candy elevator, egg roll, nose dive, breakfast Jax4Kids.com proudly sponsors the Back To scramble, and more. Admission starts at $9. Skate School Bash at RAM featuring entertainment and Station Funworks, Orange Park / 904-272-5600 fun activities throughout the market for children / 230 Blanding Blvd, Orange Park, FL 32073 / of all ages. Shop from area Farmers and Artisans funworks.com/orangepark and enjoy eats and treats. RAM is a pet-friendly
things to do market. 715 Riverside Avenue, under the Fuller Warren Bridge / www.riversideartsmarket.com Fairy Enchanted Woodland Adventures Party August 22, 10am to 1pm Fairy Enchanted Woodland Adventures Party at the Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village. This event is also having a Charity Raffle benefiting The Boys & Girls Club of St. Augustine – all proceeds going to charity. $1 a ticket. There will be fairy station set up with activities. Fairies will have timed segments at each station, including face painting, balloon creations, Fairy Dust Creations, wand decorating, and more. Chose from 10am to 12noon session or 1pm to 3pm. Event is for ages 3 to 10. Cost is $25 per child and $10 per adult. Fairy Enchanted Woodland Adventures Party / 904-708-0315 / Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village, 500 South Legacy Trail, St. Augustine, FL 32092 Free Entrance in the National Parks August 25 In honor of the National Park Service Birthday, all National Parks will offer free admission on August 25. National Parks Service / www.nps.gov Girls on the Run Fall 2015 Registration Beginning August 28 Registration for the Girls on the Run Fall Session opens today, August 28th, and will close on September 11th. This process will take 5-10 minutes. To expedite the process, please have your health insurance and emergency contact information available before you start registering your girl. It is also recommended that you not use a smartphone to complete the registration process. Girls on the Run and Girls on the Track sessions are held over a 10 week period in the Fall and Spring. The program meets two days a week for one hour and 15 minutes after school. All girls ages 8-12 and 12-14 are encouraged to join the program regardless of previous running experience and level of physical fitness. The Fall Season will run from the week of September 19th through December 5th. The End of Season 5K will be held on Saturday, December 5th. Girls on the Run / www.gotrnefl.org
sortment of critters. This program will take place at the Ribault Club on Fort George Island Cultural State Park. No reservations are necessary and the program is free. Fort George Island Cultural State Park / 904-2512320 / 11241 Fort George Road Jacksonville, FL 32226 / www.floridastateparks.org Jacksonville Suns vs. Mississippi Braves September 3 – 7 The Jacksonville Suns take on the Mississippi Braves. Tickets start at $4.67, before fees. September 3, 7:05pm – College ID Night September 4, 7:05pm – Friday Family Fireworks September 5, 7:05pm – Bark in the Park / ZOOpertars Appearance September 6, 7:05pm – BirdZerk / Fan Appreciation Night / Pre-Labor Day Fireworks Spectacular September 7, 1:05pm – Kids Run the Bases / Labor Day Matinee Game Public parking costs $7 and is controlled by the City of Jacksonville. Garage parking is also available next to the Veterans Memorial Arena for $7. Prices are subject to change depending on events at the Sports Complex. Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville / 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www. milb.com 450th Landing Day Thanksgiving Feast & Celebration • September 5, 10:30am to 2pm The Fountain of Youth Park reenacts Menendez’ Landing and throws a Feast for the public. The Feast of Thanksgiving and Landing celebration of 450th anniversary of the founding of St. Augustine will take place from 10:30am to 2pm. Reenactors will land at the Fountain of Youth, proceed around the Park, and settle in to celebrate a recreated Thanksgiving meal just like the first documented Thanksgiving Feast in what is now the US – right on the Park grounds 450 years ago. Admission is $15 adults, $14 seniors, $9 children, 5 and under are free. Feast tickets sold separately. Fountain of Youth Archeological Park / 904-8293168 / 11 Magnolia Ave., St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.fountainofyouthflorida.com
450th Birthday Fireworks From Atop the St. Augustine Lighthouse • September 5 Celebrate St. Augustine’s 450th by watching the birthday fireworks from atop the St. Augustine Jacksonville Jaguars Preseason Home Game Lighthouse. Space is very limited, reservations August 28, 8pm online or by calling Lighthouse. Tickets are $40 Preseason home game vs. Detriot Lions. Single per person. game tickets and season tickets are available. Visit The fireworks show will be over the Matanzas website for a pricing chart. Visit www.jaguars. River, and can also be viewed from other points com for a list of prohibited items, including the new around the city. bag policy. Be sure to sign up for the Junior Jags St. Augustine Lighthouse / 904-829-0745 / 81 Club, for age 4 to 12 at www.juniorjags.com and Lighthouse Ave St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www. Jaguars Cub Club for newborns to age 3 at www. staugustinelighthouse.com jaguarscubclub.com. Jacksonville Jaguars / Everbank Field, 1 Everbank Menéndez Landing, Procession, CommemoraField Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaguars. tive Mass, & Street Festival • September 8, com 7:45am On this date in 1565, Don Pedro Menéndez came Animal Signs ashore here to establish the City of St. Augustine. August 29, 2pm At 7:45am there will be a countdown ceremony Join a Park Ranger for a presentation and leisurely at the Visitor Information Center. Then at 9am, guided hike through different Florida ecosystems an authentic re-enactment of Menendez’ arrival on a quest to characterize tracks left by an astakes place at the Mission Nombre de Dios and is EDITOR’S NOTE: Dates, times and locations are accurate at time of publication; events and activities listed in this guide are subject to change without notice. Visit Jax4Kids.com for updated information and more events!
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followed at 10am by a procession by spectators re-enactors and dozens of Bishops from around the world to the Cathedral Basilica for a 11am Commemorative Mass. Public viewing of the Mass will take place via a Jumbotron on the west courtyard of the Basilica and Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College. All events are free and open to the public. City of St. Augustine / Mission of Nombre de Dios / 101 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / staugustine-450.com The Great Outdoors Event September 12 – 13 The Great Outdoors Event will feature displays, Boating and Fishing Expo, vendors, kids activities and more. The Great Outdoors Event / 904-673-0093 / Jacksonville Equestrian Center, 13611 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32221 / www.thegreatoutdoorsevent.com
Jacksonville Jaguars Home Game September 13, 1pm vs. Carolina Panters September 20, 4:05pm vs. Miami Dolphins Single game tickets and season tickets are available. Visit website for a pricing chart. Be sure to sign up for the Junior Jags Club, for age 4 to 12 at www.juniorjags.com and Jaguars Cub Club for newborns to age 3 at www.jaguarscubclub.com. Kids, visit Jax4Kids.com in the Fan Zone from 10am – 1pm to get game-ready crazy hair and giveaways! Jacksonville Jaguars / Everbank Field, 1 Everbank Field Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaguars. com
River Clean Up – Your State Parks Day September 26, 1:30pm to 3:30pm Join the river cleanup with Rivers Alive and the Cooperative Extension Office. Participants will clean along the water way and remove trash from fishing areas. Please wear clothing that can get TEACH: Better Together dirty. Bring water, a hat, sunscreen and bug spray. September 12, 7:30am to 4pm Rivers Alive will provide t-shirts for participants at WJCT hosts the fourth annual TEACH Conference, the afternoon clean-up. There will also be door an event created to engage, empower and inspire prizes for “most unique trash item collected” along teachers. TEACH 2015 will be held Saturday, with some other awards. Trash bags and gloves September 12 at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront in will be provided but feel free to bring any supplies downtown Jacksonville, Florida. Educators are in- that would be helpful to the cause. vited for a day filled with national speakers, break- Crooked River State Park / 912-882-5256 / 6222 out sessions, exhibitors, book signings, breakfast, Charlie Smith Sr. Highway St. Marys, GA 31558 / lunch, door prizes and more. Tickets are $30 each. gastateparks.org WJCT / Hyatt Regency, 225 E Coastline Dr, Jacksonville, FL. 32202 / www.wjct.org/teach
We’re Not Just Inflatables Anymore! (Formerly Jump Zone)
• • • •
Giant Themed Inflatables Awesome Parties Walk-In Play Ages 2-10
• The Area’s Most Exciting New Party • Walk-In Play • Ages 7 to Adult • More Fun Than Laser Tag
1035 Blanding Blvd Ste. 108 • Orange Park 904.328.2227 • JumperzFunCenter.com