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Page 2 - July 22, 2011

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

Welcome Message from Vermilion’s School Superintendent Vermilion Parish Public Schools ranks each year at or near the top of Region 4 in the Acadiana area in school performance as measured by the state Department of Education’s accountability statistics. The state gives each of the 66 public school districts a performance score based on test results, teacher qualiﬁcations, dropout rates and other factors. Since the 2007-08 school year Vermilion posted a performance score which ranks us in the top 15 best in the state and 1st in Region 4. In 2008-09, we became the ﬁrst and only district in Region 4 to score above the 100

point mark. Students score high on college entrance tests and many of our graduates receive scholarship offers. The educational community is extremely proud of the accomplishments of our students. It is amazing that we have been able to achieve all of this given the four hurricanes which have devastated our school system in the past 8 years, the current economy, and most recently, the oil spill in the Gulf. Another amazing fact is we have been able to accomplish all of our success given that Vermilion parish ranks 68 out of 69 school dis-

tricts in our local and state revenues per student for the past three years. None of our successes could have been possible without the concerted effort of parents, students, people in the community, and, especially, the entire faculty and staff. The trust of the public in the ability of the Vermilion Parish School System to educate the youth of the community has really paid off. Just recently, parish voters overwhelmingly renewed a 10 mill property tax dedicated for the purchase of school buses, the continued acquisition of textbooks and classroom comput-

ers, and the repairs of roofs and air conditioners, renewed a 25 mill property tax dedicated to employee salaries and beneﬁts, and supported a new ½ cent sales tax dedicated to employee salaries and beneﬁts. The Vermilion Parish School System strives to provide learning opportunities for all children which will enable them to function competently as effective, productive, responsible, and thinking citizens who will make needed contributions for lifelong excellence in a rapidly changing world.

Randy Schexnayder

Vermilion Parish schools have a revised uniform policy On June 16, 2011, the Vermilion Parish School Board revised the following Student Dress Code policy (JCDB). The revisions will be in bold and italic font. STUDENT DRESS CODE (JCDB) The Vermilion Parish School Board has set forth the following guidelines for grades Pre-K through 12 concerning mandatory uniforms, student dress, and appearance. These guidelines seek to foster an environment which promotes respect for authority, increased safety for students and staff, and preparation for students to enter into the workforce. The final decision as to the appropriateness of attire and appearance will be made by the principal. Therefore, prior to purchasing a particular style of attire which is neither specifically prohibited in these guidelines, contact the principal’s office of the school where your child attends in order to ensure that the particular style of at-

tire you plan to purchase meets the approval of the school’s principal. Any student who violates the dress code will be subject to disciplinary action. I. Guidelines for Student Uniforms (Grades Pre-K – 12) Students who transfer into Vermilion Parish will be allowed two weeks to purchase uniforms and comply with the policy. The principal may designate certain days throughout the year as school spirit days celebrating school sports or school-sponsored days when a spirit or club shirt may be worn with the mandatory uniform bottoms or jeans. On special occasion days such as Parish Government Day, Elocution Contest, etc., the school uniform does not have to be worn, but the clothing must meet the approval of the principal and the guidelines for student dress. A. Pants 1. Color must be designated khaki or navy. 2. Pants may have pleats or

straight fronts. Denim, corduroy, or blue jean materials are not allowed. 3. All pants must have belt loops except Pre-K and Kindergarten students who may wear pull-on pants.

4. Only inset pockets are allowed. No pockets are allowed on legs. 5. Pants cannot be worn lower than the top of the hipbone. 6. No emblems, monograms,

or contrasting stitching are allowed except for the manufacturer’s logo patch on pants can be no larger than 1 ½ inch by 1 ½ inch. (See POLICY, Page 16)

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Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page 3

Cecil Picard Elementary at Maurice Fall Orientation Dates Meet and Greet: Cecil Picard Elementary at Maurice will hold their annual Meet and Greet on Monday, August 15 from 4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Students and parents/guardians are asked to come meet their child's teacher and drop off school supplies! Registration for New Students: Registration for new students will be on Wednesday, August 10th at 9:00 a.m. for grades first- sixth. What is needed? The legal guardian must be present with the following documents: 1. Original state certified birth certificate 2. Child’s social security card 3. Child’s immunization record 4. Custody papers, if applicable 5. Two forms of proof of domicile. Documents must show a physical address, not a post office box number. * Current electric bill is required, in legal guardian’s name (If electric bill is in name other than legal guardian, then a Vermilion Parish School Board Affidavit verifying student residence must be completed. Affidavit forms are available in school office.) * Water or gas bill * Apartment or house lease receipt or documentation providing ownership * Filed Homestead Exemption Application Form * Placement by OC 6. Proof of income (for Pre-K only) – Must provide one of the following: * 2 most recent pay stubs for each employed household member, OR * W-2 forms for 2010 income records, OR * Federal income tax return form 1040 for 2010 per household member. 7. IEP, if applicable NOTE: IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT ALL DOCUMENTS BE PRESENTED AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION! Students do not need to be present for registration Other Dates: * 1st day of school for Grades 1-6 August 16, 2011. * 1st Day(s) of School for Pre K and K Information: Half of the students will attend on Friday, August 19th and the other half will attend on Monday, August 22nd. All students attend on August 23rd. Parents will be notified of exact dates. * Testing for Pre K and K (August 16, 17 and 18th) Parents will be notified as to the exact testing date and time for your child.

If more information is needed, you may contact the school ofﬁce @ 337-8933887. All information needed is listed on the Cecil Picard Elementary at Maurice site @ http://www.vrml.k12.la.us/maurice.

Page 4 - July 22, 2011

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

Dozier Elementary Fall Orientation Dates Meet and Greet

Other Dates:

Meet and greets for grades 1-5 will be held Wednesday, August 10 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Parents are asked to please bring school supplies with them that day. Students may accompany parents. Registration for new students Registration for new students will be August 9 from 9:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. What is needed? The legal guardian must be present with the following documents:

* 1st day of school for Grades 1-5 August 16, 2011. * 1st Day(s) of School for Pre K and K Information: Half of the students will attend on Friday, August 19th and the other half will attend on Monday, August 22nd. All students attend on August 23rd. Parents will be notified of exact dates. * Testing for Pre K and K (August 16, 17 and 18th) Parents will be notified as to the exact testing date and time for your child. If more information is needed, you may contact the school office @ 337-9376915 or email Principal Karla Toups @ karlad@vrml.k12.la.us, Assistant Principal Natalie Hebert @ natalieh@vrml.k12.la.us or Counselor Glenn Roy LeBlanc @ glennl@vrml.k12.la.us. All information needed is listed on the Dozier Elementary site @ http://www.vrml.k12.la.us/dozier.

1. Original state certified birth certificate 2. Child’s social security card 3. Child’s immunization record 4. Custody papers, if applicable 5. Two forms of proof of domicile. Documents must show a physical address, not a post office box number. * Current electric bill is required, in legal guardian’s name (If electric bill is in name other than legal guardian, then a Vermilion Parish School Board Affidavit verifying student residence must be completed. Affidavit forms are available in school office.) * Water or gas bill * Apartment or house lease receipt or documentation providing ownership * Filed Homestead Exemption Application Form * Placement by OC 6. Proof of income (for PreK only) – Must provide one of the following: * 2 most recent pay stubs for each employed household member, OR * W-2 forms for 2010 income records, OR * Federal income tax return form 1040 for 2010 per household member. With a New Hair 7. IEP, if applicable

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Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page5

Eaton Park Elementary Fall Orientation Dates Meet and Greet: Eaton Park Elementary's Meet and Greet will be August 15th for Grades 1-5 from 4:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. (Bring supplies on this day!). Students and parents/ guardians come and meet your child's teacher and drop off school supplies! Registration: Registration for new students will be on August 3rd and 4th - 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Parents of new students are encouraged to register at this time to eliminate congestion on the first day of school. What is needed? The legal guardian must be present with the following documents: 1. Original state certified birth certificate 2. Child’s social security card 3. Child’s immunization record 4. Custody papers, if applicable 5. Two forms of proof of domicile. Documents must show a physical address, not a post office box number. o Current electric bill is required, in legal guardian’s name (If electric bill is in name other than legal guardian, then a Vermilion Parish School Board Affidavit verifying student residence must be completed. Affidavit forms are available in school office.) o Water or gas bill o Apartment or house lease receipt or documentation providing ownership o Filed Homestead Exemption Application Form o Placement by OCS 6. Proof of income (for Pre-K only) – Must provide one of the following: o 2 most recent pay stubs for each employed household member, OR o W-2 forms for 2010 income records, OR o Federal income tax return form 1040 for 2010 per household member. 7. IEP, if applicable NOTE: IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT ALL DOCUMENTS BE PRESENTED AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION! Students do not need to be present for registration. Other Dates! * 1st day of school for Grades 1-5 August 16, 2011. *

1st Day(s) of School for Pre K and K Information: Half of the students will attend on Friday, August 19th and the other half will attend on Monday, August 22nd. All students attend on August 23rd. Parents will be notified of exact dates. * Testing for Pre K and K (August 16, 17 and 18th) Parents will be notified as to the exact testing date and time for your child. If more information is needed, you may contact the school office @ (337)-8934978, email Principal Wendy Stoute@ wstoute@vrml.k12.la.us, Assistant Principal Lola Thomas @ lola@vrml.k12.la.us or Counselor Chris Oubre @ coubre@ vrml.k12.la.us. All information needed is listed on the Eaton Park Elementary site @ http://www.vrml.k12.la.us/ep.

Page 6 - July 22, 2011

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

F.I.E.B. Fall Orientation Dates Parent's Night will be posted on the school website @ http://www.vrml.k12. la.us/fieb once school begins. Registration for New Students: FIEB new student registration will be during August 4th through 16th during school hours. What is needed? The legal guardian must be present with the following documents: 1. Original state certified birth certificate 2. Child’s social security card 3. Child’s immunization record 4. Custody papers, if applicable 5. Two forms of proof of domicile. Documents must show a physical address, not a post office box number. o Current electric bill is required, in legal guardian’s name (If electric bill is in name other than legal guardian, then a Vermilion Parish School Board Affidavit verifying student residence must be completed. Affidavit forms are available in school office.) o Water or gas bill o Apartment or house lease receipt or documentation providing ownership o Filed Homestead Exemption Application Form

o Placement by OCS 6. Proof of income (for Pre-K only) – Must provide one of the following: o 2 most recent pay stubs for each employed household member, OR o W-2 forms for 2010 income records, OR o Federal income tax return form 1040 for 2010 per household member. 7. IEP, if applicable NOTE: IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT ALL DOCUMENTS BE PRESENTED AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION! Students do not need to be present for registration. Other Dates! *1st day of school for Grades 1-8 August 16, 2011. *1st Day(s) of School for Pre K and K Information: Half of the students will attend on Friday, August 19th and the other half will attend on Monday, August 22nd. All students attend on August 23rd. Parents will be notified of exact dates. * Testing for Pre K and K (August 16, 17 and 18th) Parents will be notified as to the exact testing date and time for your child. If more information is needed, you may contact the school office @ (337) 6429100.

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page 7

Kaplan Elementary Fall Orientation Dates Meet and Greet: Kaplan Elementary will host a Meet and Greet for grades 1-4 on Thursday, August 11, 2011 from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 pm. Students and parents/guardians may come and meet their child's teacher and drop off school supplies! Also on August 11th, the school will have their Pre K parent meeting at 4:00 p.m. and the Kindergarten meeting will be at 5:00 p.m. Registration for New Students: Kaplan Elementary will be taking registrations daily from August 1 through August 15th from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m..

Other Dates: * First day of school for Grades 1-4 August 16, 2011. * First Day(s) of School for Pre K and K Information: Half of the students will attend on Friday, August 19th and the other half will attend on Monday, August 22nd. All students attend on August 23rd. Parents will be notified of exact dates. * Testing for Pre K and K (August 16, 17 and 18th) Parents will be notified as to the exact testing date and time for your child. If more information is needed, you may contact the school office @ (337)-6437965. The Kaplan Elementary website is at http://www.vrml.k12.la.us/kes.

What is needed? The legal guardian must be present with the following documents: 1. Original state certified birth certificate 2. Child’s social security card 3. Child’s immunization record 4. Custody papers, if applicable 5. Two forms of proof of domicile. Documents must show a physical address, not a post office box number. o Current electric bill is required, in legal guardian’s name (If electric bill is in name other than legal guardian, then a Vermilion Parish School Board Affidavit verifying student residence must be completed. Affidavit forms are available in school office.) o Water or gas bill o Apartment or house lease receipt or documentation providing ownership o Filed Homestead Exemption Application Form o Placement by OCS 6. Proof of income (for Pre-K only) – Must provide one of the following: o 2 most recent pay stubs for each employed household member, OR o W-2 forms for 2010 income records, OR o Federal income tax return form 1040 for 2010 per 314 N. Cushing Ave. • Kaplan, LA 70548 • 643-6217 household member.

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Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

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Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page 9

LeBlanc Elementary Fall Orientation Dates Meet and Greet: LeBlanc Elementary will host a Meet and Greet for grades Pre K – 5th on Wednesday, August 10, 2011 from 4:00 - 6:00 pm. at the new school site located on LA Hwy 338. Students and parents/guardians may come and meet their child's teacher and drop off school supplies! New Student Registration: LeBlanc Elementary will be taking new student registrants at all grade levels on Wednesday, August 3, 2011 from 9:00-11:00 am.

o 2 most recent pay stubs for each employed household member, OR o W-2 forms for 2010 income records, OR o Federal income tax return form 1040 for 2010 per household member. 7. IEP, if applicable NOTE: IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT ALL DOCUMENTS BE PRESENTED AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION! Students do not need to be present for registration. Other Dates!

*First day of school for Grades 1-5 August 16, 2011. *First Day(s) of School for Pre K and K Information: Half of the students will attend on Friday, August 19th and the other half will attend on Monday, August 22nd. All students attend on August 23rd. Parents will be notified of exact dates. * Testing for Pre K and K (August 16, 17 and 18th) Parents will be notified as to the exact testing date and time for your child. If additional information is needed, you may contact the school office @ (337) 937-8110.

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Page 10 - July 22, 2011

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

Herod Elementary Fall Orientation Dates Open House: Herod Elementary will host their Open House on Wednesday. August 31, 2011 at 5:30 PM. Other Dates! * First day of school for Grades 1-5 August 16, 2011. * First Day(s) of School for Pre K and K Information: Half of the students

will attend on Friday, August 19th and the other half will attend on Monday, August 22nd. All students attend on August 23rd. Parents will be notified of exact dates. * Testing for Pre K and K (August 16, 17 and 18) Parents will be notified as to the exact testing date and time for your child. For more information contact the school office at (337) 893-4258. The Herod website is @ http://www.vrml.k12.la.us/herod.

Erath Middle Fall Orientation Dates Erath Middle Orientation will be held on August 2 - 2011-2012 (Mandatory Orientation) & Fees will be collected @ the EMS Gym. * 8th grade students – 9:00 a.m. * 7th grade students – 11:00 a.m. * 6th grade students and parents – 1:00 p.m, New Student Registration will be held on Friday, July 29, 2011 from 8:00 a.m.– 1:00 p.m. All new students must bring the following documents when registering: 1. Copy of withdrawal form from previous school 2. Birth certiﬁcate

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3. Social security card 4. Immunization record 5. Electric bill from residence 6. Water bill or gas bill from residence If more information is needed, you may contact the school ofﬁce @ Phone: 337-937-4441 email Principal Lynn Moss @ lmoss @vrml.k12.la.us, Assistant Principal Errol Trahan @ errolt@vrml.k12.la.us or Counselor Jackie Puyau @ jackiep@vrml.k12.la.us. All information needed is listed the Erath Middle site @ http://www.vrml.k12.la.us/ems. The ﬁrst day of school for students will be August 16, 2011.

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Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page 11

J.H. Williams Fall Orientation Dates * 8th grade parent orientation @ 10:00 am

JH Williams' Orientation Dates are as follows:

August 8, 2011

August 4, 2011

* 6th grade STUDENT seminar 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

* 6th grade parent orientation @ 5:30 pm * 7th grade parent orientation @ 7:00 pm

The ﬁrst day of school for students will be August 16, 2011. August 5, 2011 The school Web site is @ http://www.vrml.k12.la.us/jhw

Abbeville High Fall Orientation Dates Orientation Dates All students must attend the one-hour orientation meeting prior to receiving schedules and paying fees. Students must sign in at orientations. 12th, 11th, and 10th grade students can attend another orientation, if your designated time is a conﬂict. Freshman orientation is a closed campus for all other students.

* 12th Grade Thursday, August 4, 2011 9:00 a.m. * 11th Grade Thursday, August 4, 2011 1:00 p.m. * 10th Grade Friday, August 5, 2011 9:00 a.m. * 9th Grade Repeaters Friday, August 5, 2011 1:00 p.m. GED Pathway Students

Freshman Orientation: 1st YEAR ONLY (CLOSED CAMPUS) * Friday, August 5, 2011 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. * Parent/Guardian Meeting 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

* Friday, August 5, 2011 1:00 p.m. For more information, you can call the school at (337) 893-1874. The Abbeville High School Web site is at http://www.vrml.k12.la.us/ahs.

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Page 12 - July 22, 2011

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

Erath High Fall Orientation Dates New Student Registration New student registration will be held on Thursday, July 28 and Friday, July 29, 2011 from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00- Noon.

* Sophomores - 1 p.m. * Freshmen Meeting(s) - 5 p.m. (students) 6 p.m. ( parents) o NOTE: Freshman will meet at 4:00 p.m. for AR Pictures for grade levels 9, 10 and 11 will be taken on the day of orientation.

Seniors will take pictures on August 3 (beginning @ 7:00 and will be in alphabetical order). Parents will get a letter later in July about speciﬁcs. No AR tests will be given after 5 p.m. on Orientation Day! The 1st day of school for students will be August 16, 2011. If more information is needed, you may contact the school ofﬁce 337-937-8451 or call (337)-643-7965, E-mail Principal Francis Touchet @ ftouchet@vrml.k12. la.us, Assistant Principal Liz Vice @ lvice@vrml.k12.la.us or Counselor Angela Lange @ alangeh@vrml.k12.la.us. All information needed is listed on the Erath High site @ http://www.vrml.k12.la.us/ehs.

Kaplan High School Orientation Dates Orientation: Orientation will be held in the gym for all students to review policies, make ID cards, assign lockers, pay fees, and hand out schedules. It is very important that all students attend. Please note the time and dates: * Seniors: Thursday, August 4, 2011- 8:3010:00 a.m. * Juniors: Thursday, August 4, 2011-10:3012:00 * Sophomores: Thursday, August 4, 2011 1:30-3:00 * Freshmen: Wednesday, August 3, 20111:00 -6:00 p.m. (parents report at 6:00 with student for rule/procedure review) The 1st day of school for students will be August 16, 2011.

All new students must bring the following documents when registering: 1. Copy of withdrawal form from previous school 2. Birth certiﬁcate 3. Social security card 4. Immunization record 5. Electric bill from residence 6. Water bill or gas bill from residence If more information is needed, you may contact the school ofﬁce 337-643-6385 or , email Laura LeBeouf @ laural@vrml.k12.la.us, Assistant Principal Marc Turner @ marct@vrml. k12.la.us or Counselor Patty Richard@ prichard@vrml.k12.la.us. All information needed is listed on the Kaplan High site @ http://www. vrml.k12.la.us/khs.

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Abbeville Meridional â&#x20AC;˘ 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page 13

Page 14 - July 22, 2011

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

North Vermilion High School Fall Orientation Dates Orientation

*Counselors' ofﬁce will re-open from 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. as follows:

Orientation will be held Tuesday, August 9th

Mrs. Nugent (7th & 8th) July 28 & 29, and August 8 - 10 (This is different from schedule sent home with report cards.)

* Seniors 8:00 a.m. *Juniors 8:00 a.m. *Sophomores 12:00 p.m. *Freshmen 12:00 p.m. *8th grade 6:00 p.m. *7th grade 6:00 p.m.

Mrs. Krauss (9th - 12th) July 28th - August 10th Students who are moving into the NVHS school zone can register on Tuesday, August 2. All of this information in on the school website - http://www.vrml.k12.la.us/ nvhs/

Other News: *Fees that should be paid at orientation: Locker (high school only) - $6.00, Planner/Agenda - $6.00, ID - $8.00 and Parking Permit - $10.00. *Class Dues may also be paid at orientation. Front ofﬁce will re-open Monday, August 1st

Questions? Call the front office at 898-1491 or 898-1492, or the counselors' office at 893-9202. We look forward to seeing everyone at orientation and on the first day of school. Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Gueydan High School Orientation Dates Gueydan High School's Jr. High orientation is August 9th.

9th grade is at 9 AM * 10th grade is at 10 AM

* 6th grade is at 9 AM.

11th grade is at 11 AM

* 7th grade is at 10 AM

12th grade is at 12 PM noon

* 8th grade is at 11 AM

If more information is needed, contact the school at 337-536-6938.

Gueydan High School orientation is August 10th.

Gueydan High Website http://www.vrml.k12. la.us/ghs

Rene Rost Middle School Orientation Dates Rene Rost Middle School will hold an orientation day on August 5, 2011. Place: RMS New Gym Time: 5th Grade – 8:00 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. 6th Grade – 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. 7th & 8th Grade - 11:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.

Abbeville Meridional â&#x20AC;˘ 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page 15

Page 16 - July 22, 2011

7. Slabbing, baggy pants, distressed jeans, capri, knickers, biker pants, leggings, bell bottoms, patch pockets, hip huggers, low riders, bottom slits, or boxers are prohibited. B. Shorts 1. Color must be designated khaki or navy. 2. Shorts may have pleats or straight fronts. Denim, corduroy, or blue jean materials are not allowed. 3. All shorts must have belt loops except Pre-K and Kindergarten students who may wear pull-on shorts. 4. Only inset pockets are allowed. No pockets are allowed on legs. 5. Shorts cannot be worn lower than top of the hipbone. 6. Length must not exceed six inches above the ﬂoor when in a kneeling position nor two inches below the top of the knee when in a standing position. 7. No emblems, monograms, or contrasting stitching are allowed except for the manufacturer’s logo patch on shorts can be no larger than 1 ½ inch by 1 ½ inch. C. Skorts 1. Color must be designated khaki or navy. 2. Skorts may be pleated or straight. Denim, corduroy, or blue jean materials are not allowed. 3. Skorts cannot be worn lower than the top of the hipbone. 4. Length must not exceed six inches above the ﬂoor when in a kneeling position nor two inches below the top of the knee when in a standing position. 5. No emblems, monograms, or contrasting stitching are allowed except for the manufacturer’s logo patch on pants can be no larger than 1 ½ inch by 1 ½ inch. D. Skirts 1. Color must be designated khaki or navy. 2. Skirts may be pleated, straight, or A-line. Denim, cor-

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

duroy, or blue jean materials are not allowed. 3. Length must not exceed six inches above the ﬂoor when in a kneeling position, but skirts may be worn to the ankle. 4. Any color shorts may be worn under skirts as long as the shorts are not visible. 5. No emblems, monograms, or contrasting stitching are allowed except for the manufacturer’s logo patch on pants can be no larger than 1 ½ inch by 1 ½ inch.

2. No emblems, monograms, or contrasting stitching are allowed except for logos/emblems approved by school. 3. Sweatshirts may be worn over polo or oxford during cold weather. It may be worn out of the pants. I. Coats 1. No trench coats allowed on campus. 2. Final decision as to appropriateness of coat determined by principal.

E. Jumpers 1. Color must be designated khaki or navy. 2. Jumpers may be pleated, straight or bid. Denim, corduroy, or blue jean materials are not allowed. 3. Length must not exceed six inches above the ﬂoor when in a kneeling position, but jumpers may be worn to the ankle. 4. Uniform shirts must be worn under the jumpers. 5. Any color shorts may be worn under jumpers as long as the shorts are not visible. 6. No emblems, monograms, or contrasting stitching are allowed except for the manufacturer’s logo patch on pants can be no larger than 1 ½ inch by 1 ½ inch. F. Shirts 1. Color must be navy, white, red or black. 2. Shirts are to be polo style (short or long sleeve) with 2 or 3 buttons and a collar or oxford type (short or long sleeve). Denim, corduroy, or blue jean materials are not allowed. 3. Shirts must be tucked in at all times. 4. No emblems, monograms, contrasting stitching are allowed.

J. Belts 1. Color must be black, brown or navy. 2. Belts must be worn at all times in grades 1-12. The entire belt must be worn within the loops. K. Tights/Socks/Stockings 1. Color must be navy, white, black or ﬂesh toned. 2. Socks must be worn at all times except when wearing tights or stockings. 3. No emblems, monograms, or contrasting stitching are allowed.

G. Undershirts 1. Color must be solid navy, gray, white, red, or black. 2. Undershirts must be tucked into the uniform bottom. H. Sweatshirts 1. Color must be solid navy, white, red or black.

II. Guidelines for Student Dress and Appearance (Grades Pre-K – 12) Any clothing or apparel that is unsafe, dangerous, and distracting to the educational process or a health hazard is unacceptable. A. Tops – See-through, tight ﬁtting, or that which exposes the mid-section are prohibited. This shall include, but not be limited to halter tops, crop tops, tank tops, sun dresses, spaghetti straps, noodle straps, and mesh tops, etc. B. Pants – Slabbing, baggy pants, distressed jeans, capri, knickers, biker pants, leggings, bell bottoms, patch pockets, hip huggers, low riders, bottom slits, or boxers are prohibited. C. Emblems and/or insignias – The promotion of profanity, obscenity, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, gang, wrestling related symbols, or hate type slogans, etc. are pro-

hibited. D. Shoes – Flip-ﬂops, slippers, thongs, backless shoes, and beach shoes are not permitted. Shoes requiring laces must have the laces, and they must be kept tied. Any other shoes deemed unsafe by the administration are also not permitted. Shoes are required to have a full back. E. Headdress – Hats, caps, wave caps, hoods, or any other headdress worn in school buildings during the school day are prohibited. F. Sunglasses – Sunglasses/ contact lenses, of extreme style or color may not be worn on school campuses during the school day. G. Tattoos – Inappropriate visible tattoos are prohibited. H. Hair – Extremes in hair style or color are prohibited. Hair should be clean and well groomed. Facial hair should be

neatly groomed. The fashion of some symbols cut into short hair cuts are allowed at the discretion of the principal using II (C) as a guideline. I. Jewelry – Spiked choke collars, chains on pants, occult type jewelry, or anything distracting to the educational process are prohibited. Earrings are allowed in the ears only. However, distracting or dangling earrings are not allowed. No visible body piercing jewelry is allowed anywhere on the body. III. Guidelines for Non-Compliance Failure to comply with the guidelines for dress, appearance, or uniforms will result in parental contact by the school. Further non-compliance may result in one or all of the following: in-school suspension or suspension from school.

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Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page 17

Vermilion Parish Schools Must-Haves for College Life phone numbers Abbeville High School -- 893-1874 or 893-1876 Erath High School -- 937-8451 or 937-8452 Gueydan High School -- 536-6938 Kaplan High School -- 643-6385 or 643-8613 North Vermilion High School -- 898-1491 or 898-1492 Vermilion Catholic High School -- 893-6636 Delcambre High School -- 685-6099 Rene Rost Middle School -- 643-8545 Erath Middle School -- 937-4441 J.H. Williams Middle School -- 893-3943 Eaton Park Elementary School -- 893-4978 Dozier Elementary School -- 937-6915 or 937-6916 Seventh Ward Elementary School -- 893-5875 Herod Elementary School -- 893-4258 Indian Bayou Elementary School -- 334-4070 Kaplan Elementary School -- 643-7965 Maurice Elementary School -- 893-3887 Meaux Elementary School -- 893-3901 St. Peter Elementary School -- 536-7930 Mt. Carmel Elementary School -- 898-0859 Maltrait Memorial Elementary School -- 643-7765 Delcambre Elementary School -- 685-2376 Jesse Owens Elementary School -- 536-6541 FIEB Elementary School -- 642-9100 or 642-9101 Harvest Time Christian Academy -- 893-6279 Vermilion Parish Alternative Program -- 643-6166 or 643-6178 Lighthouse Christian Academy -- 893-8848, 893-2056 or 893-8740

Far from home for the first time, many college-bound students face new challenges and responsibilities not always covered on the SAT — from term papers and study groups, to unforgiving professors, part-time jobs and all the other nuances of newfound independence. And these days, with many students on a tight budget and sharing cramped rooms and counter space, finding ways to bring a bit of domesticity to the dorms — or a first apartment — isn’t always a top priority. But maintaining a balance between school and

life, while learning the skill sets to take care of oneself in the real world, are arguably just as important as acing any exam. That’s why it’s a prerequisite for students to come prepped with at-home necessities to keep them on their A-game. This includes a few culinary essentials and household items designed to keep coeds well-fed (toasters and countertop ovens) and wellpressed (an iron), even in the wilds of the real world. The following checklist fea(See COLLEGE, Page 18)

Page 18 - July 22, 2011

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

Learning a new language this year? Study every day Try to set aside some time every day for your studies, ideally when your brain is at its most receptive. It's better to study for 30 minutes every day than for 3 hours once a week. If you can spare an hour a day, break it up into two or three sessions to avoid brain overload. If you decide to study for half an hour a day for example, try to stick to that time. It's often easier to get started on an activity if you know you'll ﬁnish it after a certain time. Don't worry about completing the lesson or whatever you're working on, just try and do as much as you in the time available, and maybe you could reward yourself af-

terwards.

tures dorm room and apartment essentials that no student should be without.

you to snag a quick cup, even as the full batch is still brewing.

Ear plugs Roommates, dorm rooms and apartment complexes are noisy. Keep ear plugs on hand to help shut out distractions and ensure quiet study time and a good night’s sleep.

DVD case

Coffeemaker From all-nighters to early classes, keeping a coffeemaker on hand helps keep co-eds awake and cuts down on expensive coffeehouse brews. Snag multi-cup machines, like those from Black & Decker, with auto shutoff features (it powers down as you power up for the day), plus Sneaka-Cup capabilities, allowing

Revise/review regularly Go over each lesson several times, perhaps once in the morning, once in the evening and once several days later. Give your brain time to digest the material, but make sure the gaps between periods of study are not too long, i.e. more than a few weeks, or you will forget most of what you're trying to learn. Make sure you have got to grips with the contents of one lesson before moving on to the next. Build on solid foundations Make sure you're comfortable with the fundamentals of the language before tackling the more advanced stuff.

Budding cinephiles should leave DVD boxes at home and transfer their collection to a sturdy carrying case, making their new, semi-nomadic lifestyle that much easier to manage and to keep all their favorite ﬁlms in one, easy-toﬁnd place. Toaster For undergrads, bagels and toast are pretty much a major food group. Luckily these days, even affordable toasters come in cool, stainless steel designs thanks to brands like Black & Decker, which have

It will take you a while to get used to the pronunciation and orthography of a new language, but without a solid understanding of these, you'll find it very difficult to learn more. Set yourself targets Setting reasonable targets is a good way to motivate yourself. You could set yourself a time limit or aim for a certain level of proficiency. Focus on your interests Once you have got to grips with the basics of the language, learn to talk/write/ read about the things that interest you. In this way you are more likely to remember to the words, phrases and

grammatical constructions you encounter. Don't be discouraged by apparent lack of progress You will ﬁnd that at times you're making fairly rapid progress, while at other times you seem to standing still or even going backwards. This is normal when learning a language, so don't be discouraged. If you feel like you are making little or no progress, try going over earlier lessons/ exercises to see if they're easier now than when you ﬁrst tried them. Don't worry about making mistakes You probably make the occasional mistake when speak-

The Future Is In Their Hands

preset toasting features, extra-wide slots for easy loading and unloading, plus retractable cords — perfect for tight spaces and easy storage. Flip-flops Community showers are an unfortunate rite of passage for many dorm dwellers. So always remember to keep a dedicated pair of flip-flops to spare bare feet from touching questionable tile. Surge protector Between phone chargers, computers, desk lamps and all sorts of other gadgets, it’s always a bright idea to bring a power strip with surge protector to help manage today’s many electronic instruments.

ing your native language, so making mistakes in a foreign language is nothing to worry about. What matters is getting your message across, not whether you use all the right words, inﬂexions, tenses, cases, etc. If you cannot think of the exact words, try using other ones. For example, say you were talking about your ofﬁce and didn't know the word for photocopier - you could try describing its function: "a machine for making copies" instead. You could also try drawing pictures and/or miming if you can't think of the words. Learn how to say things like "How do you say X in your language", "What's the word for Y?",

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Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page 19

Do Your Have School Spirit? School spirit is the belief that your school is worthy of your time, love and support. Many schools today express their disappointment in the decline of school spirit among their students, faculty and alumni. You can help to raise others' school spirit by showing your own sense of pride. For Students Get involved. Join a team, squad, band or other group. Many schools have spirit-based activities, like pep clubs, that do not require a lot of time or athletic ability. Students who join these groups often get free admission to the games, free team T-shirts and travel provided to away games. Don't let other people put your school down. If your football team isn't the best in the area, that's OK. School spirit is about believing you can do it, not dwelling on how you have or haven't in the past. Learn some winning facts about your school or team to share with people who want to put it down. Show your school pride. This can be as simple as wearing school colors on game day--or any day--or as complicated as writing articles for the local newspaper about something great your school is doing. For Faculty

Participate in spirit activities. Wear school colors on game day. Attend pep rallies and clap when the cheerleaders ask you to. Post game schedules and positive school-spirit messages in the classroom. Volunteer to judge spirit contests. None of these things require much time or energy, but your students will notice and will pick up on your spirited attitude. Attend school events. Show your students that you support them and believe in them, by being seen at events throughout the year to show the kids. Try to attend at least one band and choir concert or drama performance. Talk up your school. Don't let people put your school or your students down. Have a positive, upbeat response to critics.

It is a great thing when children are excited to attend school.

For Alumni If you live near your alma mater, keep participating. Go to games and events, wear school colors on game days, attend a band concert. Volunteer to help out: Chaperone a dance, give private lessons to band members, help carry equipment for a team. Be proud of your school online. Join or create a Facebook group for your high

school's alums. Give a supportive shout-out to the various teams as they head out to game day. Show some spirit with your checkbook. Donate to the activities that you participated in, to the school library, or to an alumni scholarship fund.

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Page 20 - July 22, 2011

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

Back-to-school shopping on a budget Now that the Fourth of July has passed, the next big item on the calendar is back to school shopping. This year is likely to be ﬁnancially tighter than previous years for many people. Not only are families facing tighter budgets, state shortfalls are placing more of the supply burden on parents rather than school systems. So what can you do to cut some costs and still send junior to school with what he needs? Reuse: Last year’s backpack or lunchbox is probably still good. There may be notebooks with only a few sheets ripped out. Folders may be bent, but still usable. Sports equipment can probably endure one more season. The computer can probably last one more year. Yes, a lot of kids want new things every year but if money’s tight, reuse these items for another year. Save the money to replace items that have been outgrown or are truly past their usefulness. Buy used: Look into shopping at Goodwill, eBay, yard

sales, consignment stores, etc. You can get great deals on clothing, electronics, books, and sports equipment if you’re willing to buy used. Shop your state’s tax free holiday, if applicable. Not all states have these but if yours does, it can be a great way to save a little money. Just be aware that you might do better shopping a sale instead since many retailers don’t put items on sale during the tax free weekend. They hope that forgoing the tax is enough of a “sale” to get you to buy. Compare online prices with physical store prices. Online coupons and free shipping may get you a better deal online than in a real store. Sell last year’s stuff to raise funds for this year: Sell your unneeded supplies and outgrown clothes at a yard sale, on eBay, or at a consignment store to raise funds to cover this year’s purchases. Stick to the list: Buy only what’s necessary and stick with the basic model. Don’t be swayed by “great deals,” the hype of back to school,

or the begging of your kids. Get what they need, opt for a model with fewer frills, and get out. Hit the loss leaders: Many office supply and discounters offer things like glue, paper, scissors, pencils, etc. for ridiculous prices (sometimes as low as a penny) to get you in the store in the hope that you’ll buy the rest of your supplies there, too. Don’t fall for it. Buy the cheap stuff and get out. Plan your budget now: Don’t wait until three days before school starts to think about this. Go ahead and figure out how much you’ll need and start putting a little extra money away to cover it. Try non-traditional sources for supplies: We all know about the office stores and the mass merchandisers. But places like Michael’s or AC Moore sell craft items and paper goods. And there is usually a 40% off one item coupon in each Sunday’s paper. Hit the dollar stores; they usually have pencils, paper, notebooks, glue, etc. Try out-

lets for clothes or stores that sell refurbished electronics. Pawn shops can even be a good source for computers or calculators. Think outside the big box stores. Look into bulk purchases: If you’re a member of Sam’s, Costco, or the like, you might score better deals on some items by purchasing them in large quantities. Rather than buying individual pens for each kid, buy a big box and pass them out. Same with notebooks, paper, and glue. Start early: Buy a little at a time as you find sales, coupons, and great buys. It may be easier to buy everything in one trip, but that is rarely the most cost effective method. Wait: You don’t have to buy a whole new wardrobe before school starts. Get one new outfit to “make a good impression” on the first day and let them wear other clothes the rest of the time. Buy new clothes as needed, not just because “it’s back to school.” Look for freebies and keep them throughout the year in a “back to school” stash. How

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many times have you picket up free pens, pencils, memo pads, etc. from conventions, expos, or hotels? Keep them and put them to use when school rolls around. Buy simple and dress it up yourself: Plain binders, book covers, notebooks, folders, etc. are usually cheaper than their “Hannah Montana” or “Transformers” cousins. If your kid hates the plain model, dress it up yourself (or let the kids do it) with stickers, artwork, magazine clippings, etc. If you have to buy for the classroom, buy in bulk or stock up at a big sale: Some schools ask the parents to provide supplies like paper or pens for the whole class. For these big purchases, be sure to buy only at stock up prices and get enough to cover most, if not all, of the year. Back to school time is never going to be cheap, but there are some ways to reduce the pain to a tolerable level.

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Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page 21

How to deal with school bullies Every day thousands of teens wake up afraid to go to school. Bullying is a problem that affects millions of students, and it has everyone worried, not just the kids on its receiving end. Yet because parents, teachers, and other adults don't always see it, they may not understand how extreme bullying can get. Bullying is when a person is picked on over and over again by an individual or group with more power, either in terms of physical strength or social standing. Two of the main reasons people are bullied are because of appearance and social status. Bullies pick on the people they think don't ﬁt in, maybe because of how they look, how they act (for example, kids who are shy and withdrawn), their race or religion, or because the bullies think their target may be gay or lesbian. Some bullies attack their targets physically, which can mean anything from shoving or tripping to punching or hitting, or even sexual assault. Others use psychological control or verbal insults to put themselves in charge. For example, people in popular groups or cliques often bully people they categorize as different by excluding them or gossiping about them (psychological bullying). They may also taunt or tease their

targets (verbal bullying). Verbal bullying can also involve sending cruel instant or email messages or even posting insults about a person on a website — practices that are known as cyberbullying. Bullying Survival Tips Here are some things you can do to combat psychological and verbal bullying. They’re also good tips to share with a friend as a way to show your support: * Ignore the bully and walk away. It’s deﬁnitely not a coward’s response — sometimes it can be harder than losing your temper. Bullies thrive on the reaction they get, and if you walk away or ignore hurtful emails or instant messages, you’re telling the bully that you just don’t care. Sooner or later the bully will probably get bored with trying to bother you. Walk tall and hold your head high. Using this type of body language sends a message that you’re not vulnerable. * Hold the anger. Who doesn’t want to get really upset with a bully? But that’s exactly the response he or she is trying to get. Bullies want to know they have control over your emotions. If you’re in a situation where you have to deal with a bully and you can’t walk away with poise,

use humor — it can throw the bully off guard. Work out your anger in another way, such as through exercise or writing it down (make sure you tear up any letters or notes you write in anger). * Don’t get physical. However you choose to deal with a bully, don’t use physical force (like kicking, hitting, or pushing). Not only are you showing your anger, you can never be sure what the bully will do in response. You are more likely to be hurt and get in to trouble if you use violence against a bully. You can stand up for yourself in other ways, such as gaining control of the situation by walking away or by being assertive in your actions. Some adults believe that bullying is a part of growing up (even that it is character building) and that hitting back is the only way to tackle the problem. But that’s not the case. Aggressive responses tend to lead to more violence and more bullying for the victims. * Practice conﬁdence. Practice ways to respond to the bully verbally or through your behavior. Practice feeling good about yourself (even if you have to fake it at ﬁrst). * Take charge of your life. You can’t control other people’s actions, but you can stay true to yourself. Think about ways to feel your best — and

your strongest — so that other kids may give up the teasing. Exercise is one way to feel strong and powerful. (It’s a great mood lifter, too!) Learn a martial art or take a class like yoga. Another way to gain conﬁdence is to hone your skills in something like chess, art, music, computers, or writing. Joining a class, club, or gym is a great way to make new friends and feel great about yourself. The conﬁdence you gain will help you ignore the mean kids. * Talk about it. It may help to talk to a guidance counselor, teacher, or friend — anyone who can give you the support you need. Talking can be a good outlet for the fears and frustrations that can build when you’re being bullied.

* Find your (true) friends. If you’ve been bullied with rumors or gossip, all of the above tips (especially ignoring and not reacting) can apply. But take it one step further to help ease feelings of hurt and isolation. Find one or two true friends and conﬁde how the gossip has hurt your feelings. Set the record straight by telling your friends quietly and conﬁdently what’s true and not true about you. Hearing a friend say, “I know the rumor’s not true. I didn’t pay attention to it,” can help you realize that most of the time people see gossip for what it is — petty, rude, and immature.

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Page 22 - July 22, 2011

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

Tips for college freshmen The first year of college is always difficult as students acclimate to a new environment, learn to function on their own, and begin working toward their degree. Hopefully these 41 bite-sized tips will help make that important year just a little easier. 1. Get to know fellow students. Networking is crucial to success. 2. Get organized. (Unless you want to constantly lose things.) 3. Learn time management. You will never have enough time for everything otherwise. 4. Apply for scholarships. Make every application as good as possible. 5. Avoid scholarship scams. They will take all the money you let them. 6. Find the ideal study place. You will be using it often. 7. Meet your professors. They can be very useful if you ever need help. 8. Go to class. You never know what you might miss. 9. Take CLEP tests. They will save you time and money. 10. Listen in class. Don’t just be in class physically; be there mentally. 11. Always avoid alcohol. It is better to not drink, and, if you decline politely, others will respect you for it. 12. Form a study group. Once you start to know more people form a solid study group. 13. Learn to communicate well. It is a skill that will pay off your whole life. 14. Never miss a deadline. Memorize your assignment due dates and finish early.

15. NEVER cheat. You are better off failing than cheating. 16. Learn to write emails properly. You will write plenty of them. 17. Become self-sufﬁcient. You should not always be needing help. 18. Remember people’s names. It will get you more friends. 19. Don’t buy books until you need them. Consider book rental. 20. Avoid peer pressure. Don’t be too worried about what others think of you. 21. Avoid the college bookstore. Their prices are notorious. 22. Keep exercised. Don’t get out of shape. 23. Get to know your academic advisor. He will help you with everything from choosing majors to scheduling classes. 24. Find a cheap form of transportation. Such as bicycling. 25. Take notes in class. It will help you do better on the test. 26. Find a job. There is no time like the present to start balancing work and school. 27. Be responsible. You are responsible for your actions, so you need to act responsibly. 28. Work for good grades. Your grades in college affect your hire-ability after college. 29. Eat healthfully. You do not want to get the “Freshman 15”. 30. Find free computer programs. You can save lots of money. 31. Write your budget. Then stick to it. 32. Get involved in extra-

College life can be fun and enjoyable for those who attend.

curricular activities. These activities will also affect your job outlook. 33. Don’t over-schedule. Remember to include time for sleep and hobbies. 34. Keep in touch with those at home. Don’t forget your family and friends from home. 35. Pack smart. Make sure you include what you will need and avoid what you won’t. 36. Don’t procrastinate. Learn to ﬁnish important tasks early. Never wait until “tomorrow”. 37. Start a college blog. It will help you ﬁnancially while building your reputation. 38. Join local communities near your college. Get to know people outside your immediate college circle. 39. Build good study habits. These will help you your entire life.

40. Avoid bad study habits. These will hurt you your entire life. 41. Find some good hobbies.

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Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page 23

So, you’re starting high school? So what's high school really like? Is there more work? More stress? Will it be difficult going from being one of the oldest middle school students to one of the youngest high schoolers? If you're having thoughts like these, you're not alone: Lots of other freshmen are feeling the same way you are — you're all starting out in a new place. With that in mind, here are a few topics that commonly worry incoming freshmen and some things you might want to know about them. Starting Out at a New School You may not know a lot of people when you start high school. Maybe your friends from middle school are going to a different high school. Even if you know other freshmen, you might feel nervous that you don't know any upperclassmen. How are you going to make friends among this sea of unknown faces? Fresh Meat Not Me Most high schools hold a freshman orientation before school actually starts. These are helpful not only because you learn your way around the building and get to meet some of your teachers, but you also get to meet fellow freshmen. That way, when you show up on your first day of school, you may already recognize a few familiar faces. When you talk to people at orientation, you'll probably find that a lot of them are feeling just like you are. They're all new to the school and don't know what to expect. Talking about a common concern with your classmates can spark new friendships. Learning Inside the Classroom

These activities may take place before or after school, or during free periods or study halls. Because of this, it helps to sharpen your time management skills in your first year. Extracurricular activities are great, but remember to leave free time for yourself. Everybody needs some downtime. Learning Outside the Classroom High school is a time of increasing independence and responsibility. As in middle school, you or your friends may encounter some tough times. But if you ever find that personal issues get really overwhelming, find someone to talk to. Just because you’re becoming more independent does not mean you’re alone. Friends and parents can be great resources, but sometimes that’s not enough. School counselors or other therapists can be very helpful if you want to talk with someone outside of your friends and family. So many people are available to help you. Middle school taught you the basics of academics, time management, and social skills while providing you with a little extra support and guidance — kind of like a bicycle with training wheels. High school gives you the chance to take off those training wheels and learn how to be more independent. It’s perfectly OK if you’re nervous at first. Even if you don’t get off to the best start, that’s normal, too — everybody’s a bit wobbly the first time they take off their training wheels. Just be patient and keep trying. Once you’ve adjusted to your new independence you may find you can go further than you ever imagined.

How about the workload in high school — is it a lot harder? Again, this is something your classmates are probably worried about, too. The work in high school builds on what you learned in middle school, giving you a more advanced knowledge of many academic subjects. So you may find you have more work to do or that it’s a bit more challenging. But these challenges can make you feel less bored with the usual routine — it feels great when you’ve mastered something really tough. Maybe you’ll find a new appreciation for biology or discover a passion for literature. If you ever find your work too overwhelming, teachers and tutors are available for extra help. While you have more independence as a high school student than you might have had in middle school, there are still many resources to fall back on if you feel the work is too much. Extracurricular Activities High school also has more extracurriculars than middle school did, such as clubs, music and theater groups, student government, and sports teams. This is a fantastic time to explore your interests and try new things. Who said school has to be all work and no play?

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Page 24 - July 22, 2011

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

Study Tips and Study Skills Students with better study methods and strategies score higher on their exams. Everyone is different, different methods work for different people the following are only suggestions on improving upon your current studying techniques. It is best to review the material right after class when it's still fresh in your memory. Don't try to do all your studying the night before the test. Instead space out your studying, review class materials at least several times a week, focusing on one topic at a time. Have all of your study material in front of you: lecture notes, course textbooks, study guides and any other relevant material. Find a comfortable and quiet place to study with good lighting and little distractions (try avoiding your own bed, it is very tempting to just lie down and take a nap).

Don't study later than the time you usually go to sleep, you may fall asleep or be tempted to go to sleep, instead try studying in the afternoon or early evening. If you are a morning person try studying in the morning. Tips on taking school notes, techniques and strategies that will help you become a good note taker. Whether taking college lecture notes or class notes these tips will be of great help. If the instructor writes something on the chalkboard/overhead or repeats an idea then it is usually a key point and you should write it down. Try to use a three-ring binder, it allows for more ﬂexibility in rearranging your notes and any handouts that you may receive. Try to sit towards the front and center of the class where you’ll be less distracted and can hear the professor the best and have a good angle on any visual aids that may be shown. Don’t rely on someone else’s notes, you may not understand everything that they write down and you’ll learn the best by taking your own notes.

Start out by studying the most important information. Learn the general concepts ﬁrst, don't worry about learning the details until you have learned the main ideas.

If your instructor talks fast, it may help to bring an audio recorder and record the lecture while taking notes. After the lecture is over you can replay the lecture and ﬁll in any parts that you missed in your notes.

Take notes and write down a summary of the important ideas as you read through your study material.

Do reading assignments or homework questions before class, it is easier to take notes when you know what the instructor is talking about.

Take short breaks frequently. Your memory retains the information that you study at the beginning and the end better than what you study in the middle.

Date your notes. Add titles and subtitles when you move onto a new topic for easy referencing.

Space out your studying, you'll learn more by studying a little every day instead of waiting to cram at the last minute. By studying every day, the material will stay in your long-term memory but if you try to study at the last moment, the material will only reside in your short-term memory that you'll easily forget.

Write down any terminology along with the deﬁnition that the instructor may present.

Make sure that you understand the material well, don't just read through the material and try to memorize everything. If you choose to study in a group, only study with others who are serious about the test. Test yourself or have someone test you on the material to ﬁnd out what your weak and strong areas are. You can use the review questions at the end of each chapter or practice tests the teacher may give out as well as other materials. Listening to relaxing music such as classical or jazz on a low volume can relieve some of the boredom of studying.

Make sure that you write legibly, if you can’t read them later, they’ll be useless. If you have sloppy handwriting it may be wise to type your notes so that they are easier to read. If you missed what the instructor said ask them to repeat it or go to the instructor after class and ask for clariﬁcation. If you are in a rush, ask the instructor at the beginning of the next class or try to ﬁnd the answer from a friend or the text. Compare notes with a classmate to make sure you didn’t miss any important points.

Abbeville Meridional â&#x20AC;˘ 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page 25

Test Taking Tips for Parents The following tips will provide suggestions for parents on how to approach test taking with their kids. Make sure that your child does all their homework and reading assignments which will help make sure your child is prepared for the test. Encourage your child to space out their studying and homework assignments so that they won't be forced to cram on the night before the test. If you are anxious about your child's test it's ok, but try to keep cool around your child, you don't want them to get anxious about their tests too. Encourage your child to do well but don't pressure him/ her. You may stress him/her out. It is important for your child to stay relaxed on the test. Keep a positive about tests.

attitude

Provide a quiet, well lighted area with little distractions to help your child study efďŹ ciently. Mark down test days on your calendar so you and your child are both aware of testing dates. Make sure that your child gets enough sleep on the

night before the test. Ensure that your child eats a healthy breakfast and avoid heavy foods that may make him/her groggy and avoid high sugar foods that may make him/her hyper. Make sure that your child gets up early enough so that he/she will be on time to school. Let your child relax for a few hours before bedtime, it can be stressful for a child to study all night. Talking about the test with your child can relieve stress about test taking. If your child is struggling on their tests, talk to them about it and meet with their teacher to ďŹ nd out the best way to help your child. Praise/reward your child when they do well on a test or for their hard work preparing for a test. Encourage them to do better if they don't do well. Review the test with your child after they have taken it and go over any mistakes they have made and make sure that they understand what they did wrong and how they can improve for the next test.

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Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

Developing good test taking skills Test Preparation Tips

Keep a positive attitude throughout the whole test and try to stay relaxed. If you start to feel nervous take a few deep breaths to relax.

Preparation for your ﬁrst test should begin after the ﬁrst day of class; this includes studying, completing homework assignments and reviewing study materials on a regular basis.

Keep your eyes on your own paper, you don’t want to appear to be cheating and cause unnecessary trouble for yourself.

Budget your time, make sure you have sufﬁcient time to study so that you are well prepared for the test.

When you ﬁrst receive your test, do a quick survey of the entire test so that you know how to efﬁciently budget your time.

Go to review sessions, pay attention to hints that the instructor may give about the test. Take notes and ask questions about items you may be confused about.

Do the easiest problems ﬁrst. Don’t stay on a problem that you are stuck on especially when time is a factor. Do the problems that have the greatest point values ﬁrst.

Ask the instructor to specify the areas that will be emphasized on the test. Make sure you go to the class right before the test; it's another prime time for the instructor to give out more hints or the format of the test. Go over any material from practice tests, HW's, sample problems, review material, the textbook, class notes... Eat before a test. Having food in your stomach will give you energy and help you focus but avoid heavy foods which can make you groggy. Don't try to pull an all nighter. Get at least 3 hours of sleep before the test (normally 8 hours of sleep a night is recommended but if you are short on time, get at least 3 hours so that you'll be well rested enough to focus during the test). Put the main ideas/information/formulas onto a sheet that can be quickly reviewed many times, this makes it easier to retain the key concepts that will be on the test. Try to show up at least 5 minutes before the test will start.

Don’t rush but pace yourself. Read the entire question and look for keywords. Ask the instructor for clariﬁcation if you don’t understand what they are asking for on the test. Write legibly. If the grader can’t read what you wrote, they’ll most likely mark it wrong. Always read the whole question carefully. Don’t make assumptions about what the question might be. If you don’t know an answer, skip it. Go on with the rest of the test and come back to it later. Other parts of the test may have some information that will help you out with that question. Don’t worry if others ﬁnish before you. Focus on the test in front of you.

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Set your alarm and have a backup alarm set as well. Go to the bathroom before walking into the exam room. You don't want to waste anytime worrying about your bodily needs during the test. Test Taking Tips Bring at least two pens/pencils with good erasers, a calculator with enough batteries and any other resources that your instructor allows you to. Bring a watch to the test with you so that you can better pace yourself.

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Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

July 22, 2011 - Page 27

How to reduce test-taking stress Test anxiety is when a student excessively worries about doing well on a test. This can become a major hindrance on test performance and cause extreme nervousness and memory lapses among other symptoms. The following are tips on reducing test taking anxiety. Being well prepared for the test is the best way to reduce test taking anxiety. Space out your studying over a few days or weeks and continually review class material. Don't try to learn everything the night before. Try to maintain a positive attitude while preparing for the test and during the test. Exercising for a few days before the test will help reduce stress. Get a good night's sleep before the test. Show up to class early so you won't have to worry about being late. Stay relaxed, if you begin to get nervous take a few deep breaths slowly to relax yourself and then get back to work. Read the directions slowly and carefully. If you don't understand the directions on the test, ask the teacher to explain it to you.

keywords in the margin first so you won't worry about forgetting them. Do the simple questions first to help build up your confidence for the harder questions. Don't worry about how fast other people finish their test; just concentrate on your own test. If you don't know a question skip it for the time being (come back to it later if you have time), and remember that you don't have to always get every question right to do well on the test. Focus on the question at hand. Don't let your mind wander on other things. If you're still experiencing extreme test anxiety after following these tips, seek help from your school counselor. Post Test Tips When you get your test back look it over and make sure that there are no grading mistakes. Look over the test and make sure that you understand your mistakes. If you don’t know the answer to a question, look it up, ask a classmate or ask the teacher.

Skim through the test so that you have a good idea how to pace yourself.

If the teacher reviews the test in class, be sure to take notes on what the teacher wanted for an answer on the questions/problems that you got wrong.

Write down important formulas, facts, deﬁnitions and/or

If you aren’t satisﬁed with your grade, go to your in-

Some students are relaxed and enjoy taking tests, while others are not.

structor and see if there’s a make-up exam or any extra credit you can do. Save the test as study material for future cumulative tests.

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Page 28 - July 22, 2011

Abbeville Meridional • 2011 Back To School Edition

Tips for enjoying school Do not procrastinate Procrastination usually leads to worries. Students that don't finish their homework or haven't even started their projects will usually avoid school because they're scared that they'll be punished or they'll get in trouble. Remember procrastinating often leads to stress; this is due to the fact that most students who procrastinate experience intense pressure and fatigue when doing their last minute homework (s) and or project(s) Scheduling helps most students and it may help you. First of all it decreases the impression of not having enough time, by prioritizing and planning ahead you’ll be able to have more free time than you ever thought possible. Example: Spreading out your work on a project. For example, you have one month before you pass a project and every night you allot 30 minutes for your project and 1 hour for your homework. That is a lot less stressful than doing it 6 hours straight last minute and then still having to worry about your unfinished homework! Don't pressure yourself Avoid worrying over academic issues. But just in case try to be as emotionally prepared for any outcome of your work. And remember that you reap what you sow, meaning if you’ve done your studies properly and your comfortable with your results then what’s there to worry about? Whatever the results may be as long as you did your best, think positive. And if you’re not satisfied with the results just move on and do better next time. Resist peer pressure. Doing this you will get a world of worry out of your back. Remember to always be yourself, people will like you for who you really are, and not for who you pretend to be. Ask for help Ask for help if you are having trouble on homework; don't be afraid. Ask your parents or older siblings. Since they have most likely gone through the same subjects at school as you did, they will be a great help and it just might make things a bit more interesting. If you’re still stuck? Then next time, ask your teacher if he/she can stay at least 18 minutes after school and help you with your homework. But if they can't because they have a long commute home, then accept it, say thank you, and then try to join a homework help club, or if it helps ask a friend at school if they’re available. Arrange time to have an unofficial conference with your teacher(s) if grades continue to be a problem. Join a club or a group Sometimes, children tend to enjoy school more if they have something fun to look forward to. Go ahead and join the after school clubs they have available or start your own group based on a favorite hobby whatever that makes you happy. It's also a great way to make new friends. But make sure that the group you’re joining in is fine with your parents, and make sure that they won’t be the reason you’re not paying attention in class. Be selfless and join a cause like an environmentalist group, or a health group, aside from making better use of your time, it'll help you grow emotionally and mentally. However be sure to join a group that you know you'll have fun and that you'll never regret joining. (It helps if you join with a friend.)

Make yourself comfortable with your environment Personalize. If it makes you happier and more comfortable with your environment then try decorating your, backpack, ball pen, notebook, locker etc But first you have to ask your parents if it's ok for you to decorate your “stuff”. When decorating your backpack try using pins, patches, stickers, and key chains, anything that’s fine with your parents and makes you happier. Socialize. If it makes you more comfortable, try socializing. You just might have some classmates that share some of your ideas and they might just make great friends. Friends are a great source of support and usually they’ll make your day. Remember to be careful with the people that you “hang out with”. Be sure that you know the difference of real friends and friends that aim to get you into trouble. There’s a fine line between the trouble makers and the occasional student fun. Remember to stay away from violence and stuff like that; these things will only lead you to trouble. Enjoy yourself from time to time. Play around or have a round of jokes with your friends in your free time. School shouldn’t be your dungeon, it’s a place for the youth like yourself for learning, and a part of learning is learning how to socialize and become a better person. However, remember there’s a difference between harmful jokes and regular harmless student jokes. Occupy yourself when you’re bored in your free time. Have a hobby or a routine, during your recess and lunch breaks. Paint, sketch, do your homework, sing, listen to music, play an instrument, hang out with friends whatever that is allowed and will help you relieve your boredom.

Best of Luck in the 2011-2012 School Year

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