2009 Back to School

For school year 2009-10 Look inside for: • a boundary map with updated contact information • dates for back-to-school functions • bus safety, tips for parents and more

Fairbanks, Alaska

Catholic Schools of Fairbanks

Immaculate Conception Grade School • Monroe Catholic Junior/Senior High School To learn about our schools, call to schedule a tour at 456-4574. Our doors are open to all.

Academics Community Service Opportunities Family Values

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S oar A bove, Ca t ch t he S p i r i t

Back to School

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Contents Back to school FAQ .................... 3

Back to school schedule .............. 16

New student registration .............. 4

Contact information ..............16-17

Kindergarten FAQ ........................ 5

School boundary map ...........16-17

Ask the expert ............................ 5

Bullying in schools....................... 18

Vaccination update ...................... 8

Importance of reading ................. 20

Sports requirements ................... 10

Technology tips ........................... 22

Weapons policy ........................... 11

Prevent backpack overload........... 24

FNSB Board of Education ............ 12

Key ingredient: Parents ................ 25

School bus FAQ ........................... 14

Make homework fun .................... 27

Bus safety tips ............................ 15

Healthy eating tips ...................... 29

SCHOOL REGISTRATION Elementary Registration: Elementary students who are NEW to the district or TRANSFERRING to a different school should register for school on August 6 or 7, 2009. Register at the school your child will be attending and be sure to bring the child’s immunization record and proof of residency. Kindergarten and first grade students also need to supply proof of age and residency. All new students will need proof of immunization.

Secondary: Middle and high school students who are NEW to the district should contact the school for specific registration dates and times. Returning students who registered last spring do not need to register again; schedule changes will be made only after new students are registered. All new students will need proof of immunization.

Out-of-Attendance-Area (OAA) Registration: Students wishing to attend an elementary school (K-6) outside their attendance area may do so on a year-by-year basis if space is available and they provide their own transportation. For students in grades 7-12, an out-of-attendance area application must be submitted the first year the student wishes to attend the school. Out-ofattendance area is not guaranteed.

High School First Day of Practice:

For more information, call the Student Activities Office at 452-4751, x9361.

Visit the district’s website at www.northstar.k12.ak.us or call 452-2000 for more information.

SHOTS NEEDED FOR SCHOOL!

State law requires all students to have the following immunizations: ! All students must have at least 4 DPT (with one after age 4), at least 3-4 polio, 2 MMR, and the Hepatitis A and B series (or be in the process). ! 2 Varicella (chicken pox) for grades K-6 ! A booster dose of Tdap is required 10 years after the last DPT. ! Kindergarten students and all students new to the district need a

TB skin test within 90 days of admission.

! Students enrolled in part-time or after-school childcare are

required to have at least one dose of varicella vaccine, although two doses are recommended.

These requirements apply to all public school students, including students attending charter schools, Fairbanks B.E.S.T., and other alternative programs.

Please help the school comply with the law by supplying your child’s current immunization records to the school.

If your child needs an immunizaiton, contact your private provider for an appointment, or the Fairbanks Regional Public Health Center (452-1776) at 1025 W. Barnette St.

Students need immunizations to attend school... it’s the law!

An Equal Employment and Educational Opportunity Institution

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July 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Football, Footbal Cheerleading, Tennis August 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cross Country Running, Tennis August 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . Girls Gymnastics, Swimming/Diving, and Girls Volleyball Note: All secondary students (this means junior high and middle school as well as high school students) are now required to have a physical exam and a signed parent consent form on file prior to beginning his/her first team practice of the school year.

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See the Sunday, Aug. 9 insert in the News-Miner

Back to School

Saturday, August 1, 2009

3

Answers to common back-to-school questions Have your child visit his or her counselor and follow up by making a phone call or visiting the school if needed.

5. What school supplies does my child need the first day of school?

Do not worry if your child doesn’t have all the necessary supplies by the first day of school. All elementary, and some middle and high schools, depending on the courses, will provide a list of

Home of the Knights

supplies on the first day of school. Elementary schools also provide lists during back to school activities. Lists are also available at local retailers such as Fred Meyer Stores, Office Depot and Wal-Mart.

6. Does the district have any specific rules about school supplies?

Most high schools do not allow backpacks. Other rules may be specific to your child’s school. Contact your child’s

North Pole Middle School

school to get specific rules.

7. Does the district have a dress code?

Middle and high schools have agreed to follow a consistent dress code.

Students are encouraged to express themselves with individual styles but are asked to do so appropriately.

Here are some of the restrictions: no head coverings inside the school, no

The staff of NPMS welcomes new and returning students to a new school year. Please keep in mind these important dates:

IMPORTANT

BACK TO SCHOOL DATES!

• August 14 Freshman Orientation 8:30 a .m.–3:00 p.m.

PTSA Back to School Barbecue 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

• August 17 First day of classes • August 19 New Parent Info Session:

Cross Country and Track begins the first day of school and basketball shortly thereafter. Make sure you have a current physical on file in order to participate.

Physicals must be completed before individuals may practice.

An equal employment & educational opportunity institution.

6:00–6:30 p.m.

Open House: 6:30–8:00 p.m.

Together, let's make this the best school year ever!

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306 E. 8th Avenue • North Pole • 488-2271

Please see QUESTIONS, Page 4

• Registration August 4 –7 7:30 a .m.–2:00 p.m.

August 10 8:30 –11:00 a.m.

August 13 8:30 a .m.– 2:30 p.m.

New Student Registration August 10 and 11 • 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Schedule and locker pick up 6th grade: Wednesday, August 12 • 1:00-3:00 p.m.

7th grade: Thursday, August 13 • 1:00-3:00 p.m.

8th grade: Friday, August 14 • 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Students First Day of School Monday, August 17, classes begin at 8:00 a.m.

Open House Tuesday, September 1 • 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Check our Web site: www.northstar.k12.ak.us/schools/npm To receive our daily bulletin, please send your e-mail address to: NPMS@northstar.k12.ak.us

clothing that condones or advertises drugs, tobacco, alcohol, violence, inappropriate language, or sexual behavior and innuendo. No gang affiliation articles, no immodest clothing and no underwear or private body parts showing even when a student leans over or sits down. No skirts, dresses, or shorts shorter than mid-thigh;

ATTENTION, PARENTS AND STUDENTS:

WELCOME BACK, STUDENTS

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1. When and how do I register my child for school?

Contact your school for registration information. For contact information see the boundary map and contact list on pages 16-17.

2. What information is needed to register my child for school?

You must bring proof of immunization. Please note the article on page 8 for additional information about immunization requirements.

Alaska state law prohibits students from entering schools without proper immunizations.

Students entering school for the first time also need a birth certificate.

For transferring students, report cards and transcripts are useful for class placement in middle and high schools.

The district also needs proof of physical residence for instance, a utility bill, renter’s agreement, with a physical address on it.

3. Who should I contact if I don’t know what school my child should attend?

Call the district’s transportation office at 452-2000 Ext. 351. You may also check out the boundary map on pages 16-17.

4. What should I do if my student’s middle school or high school schedule is wrong?

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Back to School

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

QUESTIONS: Basics on the dress code, illness, absence policies child from school?

Call the school in the nothing that disparages any morning so officials know not group, gender, national origin, to expect your child. race, religion, political affili11. How do I excuse my ation, sexual orientation or child from school for a disability; no accessories that long period of time? Can pose a hazard or disrupt the my child make up work? learning environment and no Attendance is crucial to a sunglasses in school. student’s academic success.

If there are medical or reliFamilies are encouraged gious reasons that these rules to take personal family vacacannot be followed, parents tions during school breaks, should talk with the school not when school is in session. principal.

Please contact your child’s 8. Does my child need school directly for informaspecial shoes or clothing tion about the consequences for physical education of a lengthy absence. classes?

12. How much school is P.E. teachers will review my child allowed to miss? any dress requirements at Poor grades are commonly the first class. Some middle affiliated with poor attenschools do require the purdance. Schools send notices to chase of a P.E. uniform, so parents for every 10 days of check with your students absence from class. The disschool. trict can pursue legal action 9. What should I do for truancy violations. when my child is sick Prolonged absences are a and must stay home from serious detriment to student school? learning. Students who are It’s important to notify absent for 10 consecutive the school when a student days, regardless of reason, is home sick. Please notify will be withdrawn from elementary schools the day school. However, it is imporof the absence and notify secondary schools within two tant to talk with the school when this might happen so days.

10. How do I excuse my that your child’s place will be held in their classes.

Continued from Page 3

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION DATES K — 6 grades All elementary schools from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 6 and 7 (tentative times, some schools may open/close earlier or at lunch time ) *Elementary and middle school students should bring last year’s report card, shot record and proof of residence. **Kindergarten and first graders should also bring copy of birth certificate.

7—8 grades North Pole Middle School: 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 10 and 11 Randy Smith Middle School: 9 - 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 4 and 5.; 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Aug. 6 Ryan Middle School: noon to 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Aug. 5 and 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 6 Tanana Middle School: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Aug. 6,7 and 10.

9 — 12 grades Ben Eielson Jr/Sr High: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Aug. 6 and 7.

Hutchison High School: 8 a.m. to 11:30 am and 1p.m.– 3 p.m. on Aug. 4, 5, and 6 Lathrop High School: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Aug. 4, 5, 6, and 7; 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Aug. 10 and 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Aug. 13 North Pole High School: 8:30 to 11 a.m. and noon - 2 p.m. on Aug. 4 and 5; 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Aug. 6 and 8:30 to11 a.m. and noon to 2 p.m. on Aug. 7 West Valley High School: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 5, 8 a.m. to noon and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Aug. 6 and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 7. Call WVHS at 4794221 x 9111 for an appointment *High school students should bring shot record and a transcript.

North Pole High School presents

Quality Pre-school Education for Children 3-5 years old since 1966!

Freshmen and New Student Orientation Friday, August 14 • 12:00 noon - 2:00 p.m.

For more information, contact North Pole High School, 488-3761 x9234

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Join us for a school tour and an introduction to NPHS.

Now enrolling for the 2009/2010 School year!

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Call 451-8485 for more information or visit our website www.fairbanksmontessori.org

Back to School

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Answers to common questions about starting kindergarten 1. How old does a child need to be before he or she can enter kindergarten?

State law requires that children be at least 5 years old on or before Sept. 1.

2. What should I do if my child missed the kindergarten cutoff but I’m sure he or she is ready for school?

There is no testing for early entry into kindergarten nor is there an appeal process. The school district abides by state law with no exceptions.

3. What basic skills should I work on with my child in order to get him or her ready for kindergarten?

Self-help skills, such as dressing, eating, and using the bathroom will go a long way.

Read to your child so that they will be able to sit and listen to a story for five or 10 minutes.

Talk with your child and

Tune in to GCI Cable Channel 14 for: •District events & announcements •Televised School Board meetings District website streams Board meeting audio live

www.northstar.k12.ak.us An Equal Employment & Educational Opportunity Institution

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NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS

instruction.

6. Will my child ride the bus to school and home?

If your child attends the morning session, he or she may ride the bus to school. If your child attends the afternoon session, he or she may ride the bus home. Transportation is only provided one way for kindergarten.

7. Kindergartners are screened at the beginning of the year. How does this work?

Kindergarten students don’t attend class the first week of school. Instead, they attend at a scheduled time with their parents for individual screening.

ASK THE EXPERT

By DR. SYLVIA RIMM Creators News Service

Younger children may struggle or excel Q. I have a 3-year-old daughter, and I’m a first-grade teacher. I often see kids that are struggling as younger students or older students that excel within their grade.

Her birthday is August 1. The school start deadline here is September 15. I’m debating about when she should start school. She’s social, outgoing and academically has met or exceeded the milestones for her age group at this time.

Her sister is 16 months behind her ... so they will be either a year or two apart in school, based on this decision.

Any advice?

A. The difficulty of making the decision about entrance to kindergarten is that whether it’s the best decision can’t always be judged in kindergarten or first grade. Those young children who struggle in first grade may turn out to be the best hard-working students by middle school, and those older students who excel in earlier grades may be the underachievers and troublemakers by middle school. Neither is always the case, and a careful evaluation before you make the decision will truly help.

Please see EXPERT, Page 6

S oar A bove, Ca t ch t he S p i r i t Now Enrolling Students Pre-K through 12th Grade " Academic Learning and Enrichment Activities " Faith-Filled Environment " Low Teacher- to- Student Ratio " Great Teaching Staff " Your Child Has a Name . . . and Many Will Know It " Our Doors are Open to All “We believe that each human being is individually created

by God with a unique human mind, heart, body, and spirit.

Total education, therefore, involves the development of the whole person.”

- Catholic Schools of Fairbanks Philosophy Statement

Immaculate Conception Grade School and Monroe Catholic Junior/Senior High 615 Monroe Street, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 456-4574 • www.catholic-schools.org E-mail: info@catholic-schools.org

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The ABC Preschool admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

answer their questions to help them learn basic communication skills with others.

Make sure they are on time for school.

4. What is the kindergarten flex schedule?

Kindergarten flex is a method of scheduling that provides for two, 4.5 hour classes that overlap for 2.5 hours. Flex scheduling divides students into two groups. One group arrives at the beginning of the school day, the other arrives in the middle of the day.

5. What is the difference between a.m. and p.m. classes?

There is no difference between the morning and afternoon classes regarding

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Back to School

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

EXPERT: Kindergarten readiness doesn’t predict future success If your daughter has the above-average readiness and good social skills that you’ve observed, follow the entrance guideline, although she’ll be somewhat young in the class.

If you hold her back a year, she may be bored and become accustomed to learning so

easily that later challenge in school will feel worrisome. On the other hand, if her abilities and readiness are only borderline, according to testing, waiting a year may be a better answer. In general, girls mature earlier than boys, so being young in the class is less of a disadvantage. You do need further information before

making that difficult decision.

Boy needs challenge and more audience Q. I’m a teacher in a school for intellectually gifted children. One middle school boy is of particular concern to me.

He’s bright (160 IQ), tremen-

dously creative, and one-onone, a delight to be around.

He would have excellent grades except that his behavior is problematic.

The child spends his life in trouble, constantly securing a spot in detention for misbehavior and being talked to in a stern manner. He laughs at inappropriate times, loves to

New Student Registration

August 4, 5 & 6

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be the class clown, and says inappropriate things for shock value. We know that taking away his audience helps, but we certainly cannot isolate him constantly.

His parents, lovely people, both professionals, are mortified. I believe that the current “discipline” program that we

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Continued from Page 5

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Back to School

EXPERT: Challenge Continued from Page 6

Some Things Never Change.

Thank goodness.

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for subjects where he excels, coaching younger children in subject him to is completely academic or sports areas or off base. We haven’t changed shadowing mentors in areas of his behavior in three years. interest are just a few potenHe doesn’t fit the profile of tial approaches to helping bright but underachieving this young man see himself as because he DOES do the work more than a class clown. quickly and correctly so that Isolating a child briefly in he can get into trouble! Do a time-out when he gets into you have any suggestions for trouble can be helpful tempochanging his “consequence” rarily, but giving him avenues plan in order to change the for expressing his creativity in behavior? positive ways will have a more A. Your middle school student acts like he has too much permanent impact on his real time on his hands, not enough needs for creative expression.

Dr. Sylvia B. Rimm is the director challenge, and not enough of the Family Achievement Clinic in positive audience. IndepenCleveland, Ohio, a clinical profesdent or small group projects sor of psychiatry and pediatrics at like demonstrating science the Case Western Reserve Univerexperiments, writing and sity School of Medicine, and the performing plays, editing a author of many books on parenting. class newsletter, participating More information on raising kids is available at www.sylviarimm.com. in forensics, debate, Future Please send questions to: Sylvia B. Problem Solving, Odyssey of Rimm on Raising Kids, P.O. Box 32, the Mind, Quiz Bowl, joining Watertown, WI 53094 or srimm@ students in a higher grade sylviarimm.com.

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We are hoping to place two children in each of our sessions (morning and afternoon, 3 days per week, one session only). Space is limited! Please complete the application found on our home page (www.northstar.k12.ak.us) and return it to one of the following elementary schools: Ladd, Hunter, Ann Wien, Joy, Ticasuk Brown, North Pole, Weller, Arctic Light. As opportunity is limited, priority will be given to children who are positive social role models with strong verbal skills. After reviewing the application, you will be contacted by the preschool teacher regarding potential placement opportunities. Transportation will not be provided by the school district.

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Back to School

8

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Students required to have chickenpox vaccination an official state form that is available at schools, doctor’s offices and online through the state’s Web site.

Cancel the chickenpox Maureen Kauleinamoku, party, drain the oatmeal bath the nursing services coordinaand save your Benadryl for tor for the Fairbanks North mosquito bites.

The Alaska Department of Star Borough School District, stresses how seriously the Education and Early Develschool district is taking the opment is aiming to put an new immunization requireend to rashes of unnecessary ment. school absences, and is now “(Students) will not be requiring chickenpox vaccinations – also known as the var- allowed unless they are properly immunized the first day icella vaccination – for every student entering kindergarten of school for varicella,” she said. through sixth grade.

Chickenpox vaccines are Students that have already widely available, and can be contracted chickenpox can found at local clinics and priskip the vaccination by havvate health care providers. ing their doctor verify with

By MICHAEL P. KOSHMRL for the Newsminer

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Fourth-grader Cassie Poulsen winces while receiving her shot from public health nurse Susan O’Toole during a chickenpox vaccination clinic April 14, 2009 at Hunter Elementary School. Following new state regulations from the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development, students are required to have a chickenpox, or varicella, vaccination in order to enroll in school this year.

During the 2008-2009 school year the Fairbanks Health Center, in collaboration with school nurses, ran a series of 19 immunization clinics at all the local public elementary schools. Six thousand local children within the district received the chickenpox vaccine at the time, all free of charge.

Although seventh to 12th grade students are exempt from the requirement, local health officials encourage them to get a vaccination anyway.

“Particularly for the older students that haven’t had it, it is highly recommended they receive the vaccine,” said Shelly Foint-Anderson, a public health nurse at the Fairbanks Public Health Center.

“If they do come down with chickenpox and they haven’t had it, the older they are, the more likely it is they will have a serious case.”

Parents who do not want their children to receive vaccinations can petition for a medical or religious exemption.

More information on the new chickenpox vaccine, immunization schedules, and medical or religious exemptions can be found in the 2009-2010 Alaska Immunization Program handbook. It is available online at http://www. epi.alaska.gov/id/iz/factsheet/ IZReqChanges2009.pdf.

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Back to School

EFFIE KOKRINE

Charter

School

9

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Saturday, August 1, 2009

Principal Linda Evans

~An Early College High School~ Accepting applications and scheduling interviews for the 2009/10 school year

School Starts August 10, 2009

W h y Atten d E f f i e Kok r i n e C h a r ter S c h o o l ?

• A unique school built on Alaska Native themes • A focus on academic excellence in grades 7-12 • Early College classes begin in the fall • Small class sizes, focusing on individual learning styles • Hands-on learning that extends beyond the classroom • Busing provided, lunch & breakfast served • A non-traditional calendar supporting traditional subsistence activities – One week subsistence fall break in September • Sports activities available – ASAA member The mission of the Effie Kokrine Charter School is to provide educational opportunities for students to succeed in the world by developing a strong sense of purpose, identity, place and community through cultural and academic empowerment.

On the Howard Luke Campus 601 Loftus Road Fairbanks, AK 99709

For Application Information 474-0958

An Equal Employment & Educational Opportunity Institution

Back to School

10

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Sports physical the first step to getting time on the field

By MICHAEL P. KOSHMRL For the Newsminer Encouraging practice and picking up a new piece or two of gear are not the only things parents need to do to get their kids ready for the 2009-2010 sports seasons.

It starts with making an appointment at the local doctor’s office.

“Everyone has to get sports physical,” said Conrad Gonzalez, the activities coordinator for the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District. “It’s required each year, and no

PLAY TIME Varsity level sports: Baseball Basketball Cheerleading X-C Running X-C Skiing Football Gymnastics

student in the school district is allowed to participate in sports at the junior high or high school level without a sports physical.”

Hockey Soccer Softball Swimming Tennis Track & Field Volleyball (girls) Wrestling

Every student participating in a sport also must turn in an activity consent and emergency medical information form. They can be

found in the student activities handbooks distributed each year and also online at the district’s Web site, www. northstar.k12.ak.us.

According to Gonzalez, only the sports that are run by “outside agencies” – including tennis, soccer, baseball, softball, and girl’s hockey – include activity fees.

The fee varies by sport. Sports directly administered by the school are free.

After these steps are taken care of, it is in the students’ hands to not only try out and show up, but also take care of

their academics.

“We are firm believers that athletics and academics go hand-in-hand,” Gonzalez said.

“Athletics are not more important.”

Once your kid gets to the doctor, turns in their forms, pays any fees and shows up to class, there is one more thing they have to take care of – and this is up to them.

The No. 1 rule in the district’s sportsmanship policy reads: “Play, have fun, and enjoy the game. The game is for you!”

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• Certified Teacher Support • Internet Stipend – $50 Per Month • Student Allotment for Purchases • A Variety of Computer Options • Media Library Services Including Instruction Kits, CD/DVD & Books

30% off

In stock items only Regular priced items only.

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3480 College Rd. • 479-2494 Monday - Saturday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. • Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

17354294 8-1-09BTS

Entire Sportswear Department

11

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Weapons in school a serious matter “Parents and students need to always be aware of what Paint ball guns, soft pellet they have in their pockets, guns, pocket knifes and even back packs and vehicles,” water guns are among some School Board President Leslie of the items that should never Hajdukovich said. “Things be brought to school. they might think are innocuSigns are posted in and ous might be things that are around school campuses givnot allowed at school.” ing warning to the weapons Hajdukovich noted that prohibition for a reason. It’s students and parents should against the school district’s be aware of the student handpolicy to bring weapons, or book and district policies. All toys that look like weapons to rules applying to the weapons school. Doing so can almost prohibition are for the safety guarantee suspension or of students and staff. expulsion from school for up “There are things like to a year. pocket knives that Alaskans It’s a serious matter, even use in the summer time that if some parents consider these Please see WEAPONS, Page 12 items toys.

Staff Report

Hutchison High School

Tryouts/Practice times for Fall Activities Monday, August 3

XC Running Tennis

UAF Ski Hut Dan Ramras Courts

2:30-4:00 p.m.

2:45-4:45 p.m.

Volleyball Swimming

Hutch Gym Hamme Pool

5:00-7:00 p.m.

TBA

Monday, August 10

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Before a student can participate, the STUDENT MUST HAVE: • A current physical on record with the school • Activity Consent/Release Form (Parent/Guardian must sign) • 2.0 GPA, no more than 1 F & passed 5 classes from previous semester

Fairbanks Volleyball Officials Association

Officials Needed For: - High School Season (Aug.-Nov.) - Middles School Season (Feb-April) - UAF Line Judges

If interested, call Ruth Olsen, 378-2282.

First meeting will be at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, August 6, at the UAF Patty Center lounge.

FVOA

No prior officiating experience required.

We will train.

10353922 8-1-09BTS

Make some extra money & make a difference!

Back to School

12

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

THE FAIRBANKS NORTH STAR BOROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 2009-2010 BOARD OF EDUCATION Leslie Hajdukovich, President lhajdukovich@northstar.k12. ak.us 452-5026 seat expires Oct. 2011

Wendy Dominique, Vice President raad@gci.net 456-1619 seat expires Oct. 2009

479-5729 seat expires Oct. 2010 Kristina Brophy, Clerk kbrophy@northstar.k12.ak.us 457-1178 Seat expires Oct. 2010

Sue Hull, Treasurer hull@gci.net

Sean Rice, Member srice@northstar.k12.ak.us 388-4607 Seat expires Oct. 2011

456-7596 Appointed until Oct. 2009 Municipal Election Seat Expires 2011

David Soderlund, Member dsoderlund@princesstours. com

Howard Thies, Member arcticmn@gci.net 456-6867 Seat expires Oct. 2009

Girl Scouts Invites YOU to our booth at the Back-to-School Socials COME JOIN THE FUN...

LTC Jesse Johnson, Base Representative 377-1430 Appointed position Colonel Timothy A. Jones, Post Representative timothy.a.jones@us.army.mil 353-7660 appointed position

JOIN GIRL SCOUTS!

Sign up to become a Girl Scout Leader and receive FREE MEMBERSHIP!* ($12.00 value) You can make a difference in a girl's life! Troop Leadership is designed for people with jobs, families, school commitments ...

PEOPLE LIKE YOU!

$25 off eyeglass lenses

Plus, the FIRST 10 girls new to Girl Scouting will receive FREE MEMBERSHIP!** ($12.00 value)

for student lenses through 8/30

Eye Exams Available At Clear Vision Optometry 452-2131

Member Agency

13353977-8-1-09BTS

*After volunteer screening process is complete **Dependent upon troop placement

WEAPONS Continued from Page 11

1 7 3 5 4 2 8 9 8 -1 -0 9 B T S

(Next to Wendy’s)

452-2024

Visit www.fairbanksgirlscouts.org or call 456-4782 11354172-8-1-09BTS

1867 AIRPORT WAY

The School Board meets the first and third Tuesday of every month, Sept. through May, and the first Tuesday only during June, July and Aug. Meetings are at the School District Administration Building and are aired live on public radio (KUAC-FM, 89.9) and are televised live on GCI cable, channel 14. The meetings are also audio streamed live on the district’s web page — www.northstar.k12.ak.us, beginning at 7 p.m.

could obviously be used as a weapon,” she said. “Just being aware and knowing that as we come out of summer where people are out enjoying the country, it’s important to know what we can and cannot do in school.”

Weapons were brought to elementary schools, as well as middle and high schools last year.

Most students who choose to bring a weapon to school may not have the intention of causing violence. However, simply having a weapon of any kind in a locker or backpack is grounds for expulsion.

Back to School

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Saturday, August 1, 2009

Back to School

14

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Frequently asked questions about school buses 1. Whom should I call if I have a question or problem with bus transportation?

If your child has a problem with bus routes, stops or timing, call First Student Inc. at 456-6921 for in-town routes and the Moose Creek Bus Barn at 488-4477 for North

Pole, Badger Road, Two Rivers, Eielson, and Salcha routes.

If you’re not satisfied with their response, call the school district’s transportation office at 452-2000. Bus routes are available on the school district’s website at www.northstar.k12.ak.us.

2. How are school bus stops decided? Can they be changed?

The school district has specific regulations and geographic considerations and financial limitations that are considered when developing routes and bus stops. Changes to routes and or bus stops can

be considered by calling the district transportation office at 452-2000.

3. What should I do if I have concerns a child’s behavior on the bus?

Contact the school principal or assistant principal at your child’s school. The school administrators will investigate

Northern Lights Academy Informational interviews: August 5 & 6 at Frontier High School in the Arctic Bowl Building. Call me to schedule.

Northern Lights Academy is a private school offering a rigorous academic program for students in grades 3–8. We will be utilizing a one room schoolhouse/multiage philosophy to cover the required curriculum.

Northern Lights Academy is now accepting applications for the 2009–2010 academic year.

Contact: Janice Trumbull - janiceNLA@gmail.com for a private appt.

907-474-0310 • northernlightsacademy.org

20% Off Shoes and Boots for Back to School

18352909-8-1-09BTS

The mission of Northern Lights Academy is to provide a quality education in a place students can safely learn and grow. Learning is paramount at NLA. Families are welcome and expected to participate in the learning process of their child.

Excellence For Learning™™ Student Version Grades 8-12 The success or failure of students is often related to:

• • • • •

How they interact with others How they are perceived by others How they are accepted by others Compatibility level with their teachers Awareness of their strengths, limitations & motivations

Excellence for Learning™ Student Version Objectives:

• To increase the individual’s awareness of his/her natural behavioral characteristics • To build understanding of self • To help the individual understand and appreciate the different styles of behavior • To offer recommendations for improving study habits • To target activities in which the student could be successful

12353856 8-1-09BTS

15 minute On-line Assessment Done in the Privacy of Your Home, Includes a Success Discovery Process workbook.................................only $25

For more information & to view a sample report go to: www.allsprucedup.pbworks.com

www.beaversports.com

All Spruced Up Professional Organizing 451-4471

Mon – Sat 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sun 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

In stock items only Regular priced items only.

12353840-8-1-09BTS

3480 College Rd. • 479-2494

and, when necessary, schedule a meeting with all involved parties.

4. How do I know if my child’s bus will be on time?

Bus drivers make their best effort to pick up and drop off students on time but there are times when weather conditions or mechanical problems may prevent this.

Local FM radio stations broadcast reports of late buses. Parents may also call First Student at 456-6921 for Fairbanks routes or 488-4477 for North Pole, Badger Road, Two Rivers, Eielson, and Salcha.

Children should dress appropriately when waiting for the bus. To check the time schedule used by the buses, dial 844.

5. Will school be canceled because of weather conditions?

This is Interior Alaska and the school district does not normally close school for cold weather. On rare occasions, the superintendent may decide to close schools for safety reasons due to a combination of extended cold weather, ice fog, and/or road conditions.

Parents may, at their discretion, keep their children home during extreme cold weather but should notify the school.

6. How does the district decide when to delay school for weather conditions?

The superintendent may decide to delay the start of school during bad weather or when road conditions make it dangerous to travel. In this case, the plan is to delay the start of school for up to two hours so students wouldn’t be traveling to school in the dark before roads are graveled.

This information is readily available via local radio and television stations, by calling the school district at 452-2000 or on the school district’s Web site at www.northstar.k12. ak.us.

Saturday, August 1, 2009

BUS SAFETY DOS AND DON’TS

Back to School

walks, walk along the left hand side of the road, facing traffic.

• When waiting for the bus, stay out of the street and in a • Plan ahead and leave home place where you can easily be with plenty of time to prevent seen. rushing.

• Avoid wearing key chains, • Wear clothing that is approdrawstrings, frayed clothing, or priate for the weather. School is toggles as they can get caught on not canceled for cold weather. handrails and doors on the bus.

Wear warm gear, including a hat, • Use the handrails. gloves and boots, while waiting for • Find a seat and sit down the bus during the winter. immediately.

• Use sidewalks where avail• Keep aisles clear of book able. When there are no side-

bags, lunch boxes, snow gear, and feet to avoid tripping and blocking of the aisles. In case of an emergency, clear aisles are the safest.

• Talking quietly is fine. But do not scream or be so loud that it distracts the driver.

• Do not put anything out the window, including your hand.

• Wait for the bus to come to

a complete stop before getting up.

• Take 10 giant steps away from the bus when you get off.

• If you drop something near the bus, don’t pick it up. Ask the driver for help first. The driver may not see you if you stoop down without him or her knowing.

• Stay away from bus wheels at all times.

Tips for Parents and Drivers

15

• DO NOT PASS A SCHOOL BUS that has its warning lights on.

• Come to a complete stop at least 100 feet from the bus in either direction.

• Watch for children crossing or standing on the side of the road.

• Never make a right turn in front of a bus

Fairbanks North Star Borough School District 520 Fifth Ave., Fairbanks, Alaska 99701 (907) 452-2000 www.northstar.K12.ak.us

2009-2010 CALENDAR Teacher Work Days/Professional Development...................August 10-14 First Day for Students...........................................................August 17 Labor Day Holiday......................................................................September 7 Professional Development (early out)...................................September 18 End of First Quarter (early out).....................................................October 16 Professional Development (no school for students).................... October 19 Parent/Teacher Conf. (no school for students)......................November 5-6 Professional Development (early out)....................................November 13 Thanksgiving Holiday..........................................................November 26-27 Last 3 Days of Semenster (early out).......................................December 16-18 End of First Semester...............................................................December 18 Winter Break............................................................December 21-January 1 Teacher Work Day (no school for students).....................................January 4 Professional Development (no school for students)...................January 18 Professional Development (early out).........................................January 29 Parent/Teacher Conferences (no school for students).....February 15 & 16 End of Third Quarter (early out).........................................................March 5 Spring Break...................................................................................March 8-12 Professional Development (early out)............................................March 26 Testing Week.....................................................................................April 6-13 Professional Development (early out)...............................................April 30 Last 3 Days Of Semenster (early out)..............................................May 12-14 Last Day for Students.................................................................May 14 Professional Development..................................................................May 17 Teacher Work Day..................................................................................May 18

2010 Graduation Schedule Hutchison High School.............................Tuesday, May 11 North Pole High School............................Tuesday, May 11 Ben Eielson High School.....................Wednesday, May 12 Lathrop High School...........................Wednesday, May 12 West Valley High School.........................Thursday, May 13 BEST (Guided Independent Studies).....Thursday, May 13

Students who are new to the district or changing schools must register at the school they will be attending.

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The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation or veteran status.

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Back to School

17

School Functions Following is a list of back to school functions planned at district schools. Contact your school for more information on each function and for dates and times if not listed.

SCHOOL ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Anderson Anne Wien Arctic Light Badger Road Barnette Magnet Crawford Denali Hunter Joy Ladd Nordale North Pole Pearl Creek Ticasuk Brown Two Rivers University Park Weller Woodriver

DATE Aug. 14 Aug. 13 Aug. 13 Aug. 13 Aug. 14 Aug. 14 Aug. 13 Aug. 13 Aug. 13 Aug. 14 Aug. 13 Aug. 13 Aug. 13 Aug. 13 Aug. 14 Aug. 13 Aug. 13 Aug. 14

TIME 11:30 a.m.

5-6 p.m.

5:30-6:30 p.m.

5:30-7 p.m.

4:30-5:30 p.m.

12:30-2 p.m.

6-7 p.m.

5-6 p.m.

4-6 p.m.

4:30-5:30 p.m.

5-7 p.m.

6-7 p.m.

6-7 p.m.

5-6:30 p.m.

3:30-4:30 p.m.

5:30-6:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

5-6:30 p.m.

MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOLS Ben Eielson........................................................

7th/8th grade orientation Aug. 13 5 p.m.

Ice cream social 6:30 p.m.

9th grade orientation 7 p.m.

Hutchison ........................................................

Aug. 12 Freshman orientation 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Lathrop ........................................................

Freshman orientation Aug. 14 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. w/BBQ North Pole Middle ............................................

Schedule pickup 6th grade Aug. 12 1-3 p.m.

7th grade Aug. 13 1-3 p.m.

8th grade Aug. 13-14 1-3 p.m.

North Pole High ................................................

Freshman/ new student orientation Aug. 14 Noon - 2 p.m.

Randy Smith .....................................................

7th grade orientation Aug. 13 9-11 a.m.

Ryan ................................................................

Locker, schedule pickup Aug. 12 4-6 p.m.

Tanana .............................................................

7th/8th grade locker/ Aug. 12 and 13 schedule pickup 5-7 p.m.

West Valley ........................................................

Future Freshman day Aug. 13 8:30 a.m.-1p.m.

New student orientation Aug. 13 1:30-3 p.m.

DeeDee Hammond/News-Miner

FNSBSD Key contacts: Anderson Elementary Shari Merrick, principal smerrick@northstar.k12.ak.us 372-2167 Anne Wien Elementary Leslie Campbell, principal lcampbell@northstar.k12.ak.us 451-7500 Arctic Light Elementary Mary Cofer, principal mcofer@northstar.k12.ak.us 356-2038 Badger Road Elementary Dan File, principal dfile@northstar.k12.ak.us 488-0134 Barnette Magnet School Mary Carlson, interim principal mcarlson@northstar.k12.ak.us 456-6072

Ben Eielson Jr./Sr High Mario Gatto, principal mgatto@northstar.k12.ak.us 372-3110 Career Education Center Mark Rippy, head teacher 479-4061 Chinook Charter School Michele Halbrooks, head teacher mhalbrooks@northstar. k12.ak.us 452-5020 Crawford Elementary Shirley Brazel, principal sbrazel@northstar.k12.ak.us 372-3306 Denali Elementary Tim Doran, principal tdoran@northstar.k12.ak.us 452-2456

Effie Kokrine Charter School Linda Evans, principal levans@northstar.k12.ak.us 474-0958 Hunter Elementary Barbara Pile, principal bpile@northstar.k12.ak.us 456-5775 Hutchison High School Jeanette Hayden, principal jhayden@northstar.k12.ak.us 479-2261 Joy Elementary David Foshee, principal dfoshee@northstar.k12.ak.us 456-5469 Ladd Elementary Kathie Cook, principal kcook@northstar.k12.ak.us 451-1700

Lathrop High Karen Gaborik, principal kgaborik@northstar.k12.ak.us 456-7794 Nordale Elementary Brian Powell, principal bpowell@northstar.k12.ak.us 452-2696 North Pole Academy Annie Keep-Barnes, head teacher 490-9025 North Pole Elementary Kathy Beebe, principal kbeebe@northstar.k12.ak.us 488-2286 North Pole Middle Rich Smith, principal rsmith@northstar.k12.ak.us 488-2271

North Pole High Star of the North A.C. Woolnough, principal acwoolnough@northstar.k12.ak.us Secondary See Career Education Center 488-3761 and North Pole Academy Pearl Creek Elementary Tanana Middle Kate LaPlaunt, principal Edwina Strange, principal klaplaunt@northstar.k12.ak.us estrange@northstar.k12.ak.us 479-4234 452-8145 Randy Smith Middle Ticasuk Brown Elementary Sandra Kowalski, principal Toni McFadden, principal skowalski@northstar.k12.ak.us tmcfadden@northstar.k12.ak.us 458-7600 488-3200 Two Rivers Elementary Ryan Middle Dana Evans, principal Heather Stewart, principal devens@northstar.k12.ak.us hstewart@northstar.k12.ak.us 488-6616 452-4751 University Park Elementary Salcha Elementary Kyra Aizstrauts, principal Rosita Bryant-Wilburn int. principal kaizstrauts@northstar.k12.ak.us rwilburn@northstar.k12.ak.us 479-6963 488-3267

Watershed Charter School K-9 John Carlson, head teacher jcarlson@northstar.k12.ak.us Weller Elementary Lynn Weckesser, interim principal lweckesser@northstar.k12.ak.us 457-1629 West Valley High Shaun Kraska, principal skraska@northstar.k12.ak.us 479-4221 Woodriver Elementary Jeff Mann, principal jmann@northstar.k12.ak.us 479-4211

✠Phone numbers to clip and save ✠The FNSBSD offices are located at 520 Fifth Ave. Phone number: 452-2000.

Extensions: Superintendent 401 School board 400 Assistant superintendents 411 Student records 361 Transportation 351 Food service 331 Special education 441 Curriculum 421 Guided Independent study 201 Community relations 403 After-school prog. 271

Superintendent 401 School board 400 Assistant superintendents 411 Student records 361 Transportation 351 Food service 331 Special education 441 Curriculum 421 Guided Independent study 201 Community relations 403 After-school prog. 271

Back to School

18

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Bullying comes in all forms, so keep a watchful eye educating the bystanders, you get to the point where the bullies no longer get that gratifi“The problem with the bullies is that it’s bad behavior cation from the students being If your kids’ grades are complacent or cheering them that’s getting great results. By educating the bystanders, slipping, their moods have on for what they’re doing. This changed dramatically and they bad behavior ends up getting you get to the point where the bullies no longer get that suddenly want to be driven bad results because bystanders to or picked up from school are speaking up.” gratification from the students being complacent or cheerinstead of taking the bus, be He said schools need to stop cautious: These are some signs focusing on the bullies and ing them on for what they’re doing. This bad behavior ends that your child may be the victhe victims because “that’s tim of a school bully. reactive, and the only way you up getting bad results because bystanders are speaking Other signs include a become proactive is when you diminished appetite, problems educate the bystanders. And up.” sleeping and coming home victims are bystanders as well — Jim Jordan, president with torn clothing. because they see other people “Every day over 160,000 reportbullying.com getting bullied.” kids do not go to school With the emergence of the because of bullying,” said Jim Internet and cell phones over not try to ignore it or get into the bystanders who have to Jordan, president of reportbul- Mental Health Services in the past few decades, bullya fight with the perpetrator. take action and report the lying.com, which creates anti- Maryland, said 30 percent of ing is no longer limited to the children are bullied these days.

He added that a lot of bullyincident to a person in authorbullying programs and assemschoolyard.

If the problem is not dealt ing also takes place between ity, whether it’s a teacher, the blies for schools throughout “Cyberbullying is the use with swiftly, these kids will school and home.

If it occurs, principal or a parent. the United States and Canada. of electronic information and grow up to be adults who “feed the victim should stop in or “What we try to do is eduBullying has always been communication devices such as into two systems — our hospi- by a nearby store in the comcate the bystanders because prevalent in schools, but in e-mail, instant messaging, text tal-based residential care sysmunity and use a cell or pay that’s 98 percent of the kids recent years it has become a messages, mobile phones, pagtems or our prison systems. “ phone to call their parents or inside the schools,” Jordan serious problem that needs ers and defamatory Web sites To deal with a bully, Walker 911. said. “The problem with the to be taken care of early on. to bully or otherwise harass an suggested kids report it to a Jordan offered up a difbullies is that it’s bad behavior O’Neal Walker, a clinical psyschool official or parent and ferent approach. He said it’s that’s getting great results. By chologist with the Center for Please see BULLYING, Page XX TAWNY MAYA McCRAY Creators News Service

Fall Registration

New Students Orientation Thursday, August 13 9:00–11:00 a.m.

Our Students Reach For the Stars!

Randy Smitih’s 10th Year Celebration

Tuesday, September 22 6:30–8:00 p.m.

Open House

Monday, August 30 6:00–8:00 p.m.

School Pictures

Thursday, September 24

AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY INSTITUTION

S C H O O L

17351733-8-1-09BTS

B A C K

Tuesday, August 4 • 9–11 a.m. & 1:00 –3:30 p.m.

Wednesday, August 5 • 9–11 a.m. & 1:00–3:30 p.m.

Thursday, August 6 • 1:00–7:00 p.m.

T O

Enrolling for before and after school care at

Pearl Creek Elementary

Contact Shelly to enroll early at 479-0900 ext.23

ENROLL NOW!

See you at the Ice Cream Social Thursday, August 13 • 6-7 PM

17354265-8-1-09BTS

W Randy Smith Middle School E L First Day of School C Monday, Aug. 17, 2009 O 9:30 a.m.

M E

Play N Learn:

Back to School

Saturday, August 1, 2009

19

BULLYING: Can happen in school, outside school, in cyberspace lied 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. “ individual or group through Nickel said it is one of the personal attacks or other most important issues in this means, and it may constitute era, since children are going a computer crime,” said Rob through so much pain that Nickel, a Cyber Safety Expert they are taking their own who speaks at various schools lives. throughout Canada and the “I believe it happens U.S. and has appeared on the because people can be pretty Dr. Phil Show. tough and cruel on the other Nickel said cyberbullying end of a computer,” Nickel is easy to do because a person said. “They may be angry with can go online anytime and someone or a group and decide post information for the world to go online where they do not to see. It may be worse than have to face the person and typical school bullies because it say things they would never can reach much further. say to another persons face.”

“Children used to have a Jordan pointed out that a safe place to go from bullying lot of bullies get their exam— they could go home from ples from watching how their school,” Nickel said. “But with parents act. technology and the ability to “Kids watch how their communicate throughout the parents treat other people in world, children are being bultheir community and how they Continued from Page 18

talk to people and that’s what they bring back to the school,” Jordan said. “Kids learn from their parents. [The expression] ‘the apple doesn’t fall far from

the tree’ that is probably the best analogy I have ever heard in my entire life and that is so true.

“When we all can go out

our front door and show respect for people and show our character education and our integrity, we can build a safe community.”

Boys and Girls Home of Alaska Treatment Center School 3101 Lathrop St. Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 459-4703

RPTC School

thanks the following supporters during our first year of operation:

17354286-8-1-09BTS

Our students and staff truly appreciate your generosity.

11354046-8-1-09BTS

Alyeska Pipeline Service Company Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum MacCheyne’s Carpet Plus Fairbanks Paint & Glass Hawks Greenhouse Holm Town Nursery Inua Wool Shop Florcraft Sam’s Club Fred Meyer Athlete’s Foot College Rotary Adult Learning Programs of Alaska David & Jennifer Sandberg Mary Andrews Mr. Ashford Ms. Newman Jay Huff Lisa Behr Wendy Ward Lynda Sather Holly Schoenborn Fairbanks Daily News-Miner … and anyone we may have forgotten to mention

Back to School

20

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Encourage reading to change lives for the better ing and continues as children respond to the sounds that fill their environment.

“Children begin to underOne of the best ways stand written language when to assure that your child their caregivers read to them becomes a successful and hapand when they see adults py student — and eventually reading themselves. Reading a well-adjusted adult — is to is the gateway to learning, make sure he or she is a good whether that learning takes reader. place in school, at home or in This journey begins the any other environment,” she day a child is born and lasts added. throughout his or her lifeThe start of a new school time, said Rebecca Chrystal year is the perfect time to Armstrong, director of literacy get your children into books. services for Reading is FunFamilies should incorporate damental, the nation’s largest time for it into their daily rouchildren’s literacy organizatines. Reading for fun before tion. “Learning to read begins bedtime is good for students long before children enter forof all ages, as well as a great mal schooling. It begins with way to wind down for a restful learning the sounds of spoken night’s sleep. language when they hear famThe National Assessment ily members talking or singof Educational Progress found

By DIANE SCHLINDWEIN Creators News Service

in a recent reading assessment of fourth-grade students that reading for fun had a positive relationship to performances on test scores. Eighty-seven percent of those students who reported reading for fun on their own time (even if only once or more a month) performed at a proficient level while students who never or hardly ever do so performed at a basic level. Students who reported reading for fun every day had the highest scores.

“While there is no mathematical formula for how many minutes a day a child should read, and a lot of sites say 20 minutes, the point to keep in mind is that if the child is not enjoying the experience, they will learn nothing from it and learn to dislike reading,” Chrystal-Armstrong said.

Creators News Service

Reading is vital for your children’s success, both in school and in their adult lives.

“I worry that sometimes students are not given enough choices,” said Travis Tschacher, a librarian at Memorial Middle School in Portland, Maine. “There are so many

genres to choose from — historical fiction, realistic fiction, fantasy, science fiction and graphic novels, [which are] books that are sort of like what we used to call comic books.

“Having said that, I have to admit that a lot of kids just don’t know what they like.

That’s why it is up to teachPlease see READING, Page 21

GYMNASTICS INC.

Back-to-School Dates & Reminders

3411 Lathrop St., Suite A Fairbanks, Alaska 99701 Phone (907) 456-2263

New Student Registration

Offering Classes

Thursday, August 6 Friday, August 7 Monday, August 10 9:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

for Children Ages 2 and up

Schedule Pick Up & Locker Assignment 7th & 8th Graders

Wed., Aug. 12 or Thurs., Aug 13 5 – 7 p.m.

5–7 p.m.

Tues., Sept. 22

600 Trainor Gate Road • 452-8145

17353181-8-1-09BTS

Parents will follow a shortened version of their student’s day

School Pictures

Call for more information and Current Scheduling Info.

456-2263

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Thurs., Aug. 27 6 to 8 p.m.

17354288-8-1-09BTS

Open House

Gymnastics – A Foundation For All Sports!!

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Back to School

21

READING: Life changer compete, Chrystal-Armstrong said. “Reading with your child ers, librarians and parents to should be a pleasurable activexpose them to different kinds ity when both the parent and of books,” Tschacher said. child are having fun. It creates “Research shows that if you a close bond that video games allow children more choices, can’t compete with. We want they will be motivated to read children to associate reading more.” with pleasure.”

There are lots of ways to It can even change chilget kids to turn the first page. dren’s lives, Tschacher said.

“A lot of teachers like to entice “We know that a lack of litreaders with what we call eracy is linked to academic ‘book talks,’” he said. “That’s failure, unemployment and when they read a section of a delinquency. On the other book that’s exciting — a part hand, it is the vocabulary you of the story that will ‘hook’ develop from reading that the child and get his or her works to your benefit and is attention. Then you tell them, directly linked to academic ‘If you want to find out what success, which means gethappens, you’ll have to read ting into a good college and the book.’” eventually having a successful Even in an age when video career. There is a direct corgames occupy the free time of relation between reading and many youngsters, books can high achievement.”

Continued from Page 20

Dance Arts Academy * * 2017 South Cushman Ste. 100

457-3262

* * 2009-2010 Dance Year: September 8–May 22 * Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 9:30-10:30 a.m.

5-5:30 p.m. 5-5:30 p.m. 10-11 a.m.

5-6 p.m. * Ages 1-2 *Performing *Performing Ages 3-5 Boys Company Company Ballet/Tap Multi-Age Mom & Me Ballet/Tap * Tumbling Esprit I Esprit III Tumbling Hip Hop Break Dance * 10:30-11:30 a.m.

5:30-7 p.m. 5:30-7 p.m. 5-5:30 p.m.

Ages 3-5 Teen & Adult Teen & Adult *Performing 6-7:30 p.m. * Ballet I Ballet III Company Teen& Adult Ballet/Tap Tumbling * Pre-Pointe Pointe Esprit II Four Count West Coast 11:30 a.m.-12 noon 7-8:30 p.m. 7-8:00 p.m. 5:30-7 p.m. *Performing Company * Swing Teen & Adult Teen & Adult Teen & Adult Esprit Pre * Ballroom Tap III Ballet II 7:30-9 p.m.

12-1 p.m.

Pointe Teen & Adult * Ages 6-9 8-9 p.m.

Country/ Ballet/Tap Tumbling Teen & Adult 7-8:00 p.m. Line Dance * Hip Hop Teen & Adult 1-2 p.m.

Break Dance Tap I-II Multi-Age Musical * III Theatre 8-9 p.m. * Teen & Adult 2-3:30 p.m.

Hip Hop * Ages 10 & Up Break Dance Hip Hop, Break Dance, I-II * Tap/Tumble * 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Multi-Age Cheer/Drill/Acrobatics * * www.danceartsacademy.net * *By Invitation or Auditions Only *

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* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

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Back to School “Kids have to earn their play...”

— Dr. Thomas Phelan

Looking for a PUBLIC SCHOOL that's different?

Barnette Magnet School. This downtown K-8 school provides flexible scheduling, academic and exploration courses, and options for both full and part-time students. Their mission is to "build competency through choices." Enrollment is determined through lottery. 456-6072 Building Educational Success Together. B.E.S.T. is the district’s home school and correspondence program and replaces the Guided Independent Study (GIS) program. This program offers parents a chance to customize their children’s education at home while still allowing them to participate in local school activities such as sports or music. Online classes are also available. 452-2000, ext. 201 Chinook Montessori Charter School. This school on International Way stresses individually-paced, multi-age education with a strong emphasis on family and community involvement for students in grades K-8. Enrollment is determined through lottery.452-5020

•

The OPTIONS Teen Parenting Program. Child development, life skills, teen parenting and pregnancy classes are offered along with academic courses and vocational opportunities for pregnant or parenting students who wish to continue their high school education. Childcare is available on-site at Hutchison High.

479-2261

Back to School In Style (and comfort)

(Full Day)

3480 College Rd. • 479-2494 PHONE:

488-0133

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Mon– Sat 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

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Please see TECH, Page 23

www.beaversports.com •

Watershed Charter School.

The Watershed Charter School is the district’s newest charter school. This K-8 school uses a model for education that emphasizes community involvement and the outdoors through “place-based education.” Enrollment is determined through lottery.

374-9350

hours your children can spend each day watching television, playing video games or surfing the Internet — and involve them in the process.

They’re more likely to cooperate when they have some input, Phelan said.

“Rather than shoving an idea down their throat, start out with a question. Ask them, “Did you know that doctors recommend there be a limit on television and video games? Why do you think they recommend that?’”

Phelan said.

Reinforce good answers, and emphasize the importance of limiting time spent on technology. Let them know you’ll take their input into consideration when determining limits — and be ready to enforce those limits.

“You need to negotiate and agree beforehand on what the limits are. When it’s time to turn off the TV or the computer, parents need to be consistent and firm. That’s not a time for arguing or talking. You made a deal, and you don’t renegotiate,” Phelan explained.

•

Star of the North Secondary Charter School.

Designed for students in grades 7-12 who seek a non-conventional school setting, this charter school consists of two campuses: the Career Education Center (479-4061) is located at 725 26th Avenue and the North Pole Academy is located at 2945 Monk Court (490-9025).

An Equal Employment & Educational Opportunity Institution

• www.beaversports.com • www.beaversports.com

Hutchison High School. This career-technical school is organized around five career clusters (Arts/AV Technology/ Communications; Information Technology; Health Sciences & Human Services; Architecture & Construction; Transportation, Distribution & Logistics) and offers a strong core academic program supporting technical programs for students interested in post-secondary employment, technical school training, apprenticeships, or college. 479-2261

For more information, contact the F.N.S.B. School District at 452-2000, x401 or visit www.northstar.k12.ak.us

should not watch television at all, and children 2 years and older should watch no more than two hours of quality proIt has a pull even parents gramming per day. can’t deny, but too much techThe problem lies with parnology for youngsters causes ents. “The television is one of serious weight problems, the world’s best babysitters interferes with school work and overexposes them to risky — you know where they are, they aren’t hurting each other behaviors like violence, sex and they’re sitting in one and drug use. place — and that’s part of the Yet, on average, children problem,” said Dr. Thomas ages 6 and younger spend two Phelan, clinical psychologist hours per day in front of the and author of the award-wintelevision, according to the ning “1-2-3 Magic: Effective American Academy of PediatDiscipline for Children 2-12” rics. To put it in perspective, ($15, Child Management). that’s about the same amount Want to curb your kids’ of time they spend playing screen time? Phelan suggests outside. the following: That’s a big jump from the pediatrician-recommended Set limits limits. According to the AAP, Determine how many children ages 2 and younger

By CHANDRA ORR Creators News Service

www.beaversports.com •

Effie Kokrine Charter School. This secondary school features rigorous instruction, individual learning styles, a non-traditional calendar, and a 10:00 a.m. start time. Classes integrate traditional and contemporary knowledge and foster a strong understanding of Alaska Native culture and a respect for all cultures. 474-0958

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Curb kids’ screen time

• www.beaversports.com • www.beaversports.com

22

Back to School

Saturday, August 1, 2009

23

TECH: Overuse by children now could lead to problems later Work first, play second Help kids keep tech time in perspective by setting a few additional parameters based on the “work first, play second” principle. For example, no video games until they complete their homework, no Internet until their room is clean and no television until after dinner.

“Video games, television, the Internet — these things have so much power and so

much pull, parents can use them as rewards in a sense,” Phelan explained. “Kids have to earn their play by doing their work first.”

Get active

have a consistent, set routine.

The goal is to do something aerobic every day.”

Have them pick an afterschool activity like swimming, gymnastics or soccer, and make plans to get physical as a family. Brush up on your bowling one night a week, take a walk together each night after dinner or plan to spend each Saturday riding bikes at the park.

Scheduled activities will help get your kids away from the screen and engaged in physical activity. “If your kids are active spontaneously, that’s great. Otherwise, you’ll have to get them involved, but you can’t just pull something Be a role model out of your hat,” Phelan said.

Do you come home each “You have to structure the night and immediately rush activities ahead of time and to check your e-mail? Is the

television on all the time for background noise? If parents expect their kids to get up, get outside and get active, they have to set an example.

“Modeling is certainly important,” Phelan said. “If you want your kids to be physical, you have to be physical yourself. Get yourself and your kids out of the house. Go for a walk. Take a bike ride together. Do something with them.”

Choose quality All technology is not created equal. Educational pro-

gramming and documentaries, instructive Web sites and skill-building video games have their place, and parents should strive to strike a balance between fun and informative screen time.

It shouldn’t be a free-forall, though. Instead, spend some time surfing the Net with your child, opt for a National Geographic documentary and choose video games that encourage reading and develop math skills. Controlled programming is the goal, Phelan said.

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Continued from Page 22

Back to School

24

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Prevent spinal injuries with proper backpacks tribute the weight evenly between the shoulders and keep the weight closer to the That cool new backpack back, making the load easier your child picked out seemed to carry. If the pack is ergolike a good idea — until they nomically well designed, it loaded it with 30 pounds may even be able to offload of books and supplies. Now some of the stress to the they’re walking around like hips.” the Hunchback of Notre An overstuffed pack also Dame, griping that their contributes to back pain, so shoulders hurt. play it safe and pack light.

It’s no wonder why. The Over time, over-weighted wrong backpack wreaks havoc packs may cause postural mison a child’s posture — and alignments, which can lead to proper posture is crucial in restricted back movement or preventing future back pain misaligned vertebrae. These and injuries, according to spinal dysfunctions predispose occupational therapist Chris people to neck and back pain, Sorrells, an ergonomic assessheadaches, osteoarthritis and ment specialist and president even slipped discs. of ergonomicssimplified.com.

“Think about how many That heavy load of books and kids you see slouching,” Sorsupplies, distributed improprells said. “It’s common sense erly, day after day, will take that hanging 30 pounds on its toll on a young, still-growyour neck will inevitably creing spinal column. ate discomfort and make it In fact, by the end of their hard to stand upright.”

Creators News Service teen years, some 60 percent of A fully-loaded backpack Over-stuffing your child’s backpack may cause spinal prob- should weigh no more than adolescents have experienced lems for them down the road. at least one episode of lower 10 percent of the child’s body back pain, due in part to poor weight, according to The backpack protocol, according (ICPA). weight off of the child’s neck Ergonomics Center of North to the International Chiro“A backpack that does and shoulders,” Sorrells said. Carolina at North Carolina practic Pediatric Association not fit well hangs the entire “A properly-fit pack will disState University in Raleigh,

By CHANDRA ORR Creators News Service

North Pole High School Registration

Attention: Parents

Wed., August 5 8:30 - 11:00 a.m.

12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Thurs., August 6 12:30 - 3:30 p.m.

5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

BE AWARE THAT THE FNSB SCHOOL DISTRICT DOES NOT PROVIDE AUTOMATIC MEDICAL COVERAGE IF YOUR CHILD IS INJURED AT SCHOOL.

The FNSB School District has arranged for a commercial carrier to make low cost accident insurance coverage available to all public school students. This parentIf your child is not protected paid insurance policy includes by a parent or guardian’s options for school-time, 24 hour health insurance policy, the protection, football medical benefits commercial policy outlined and dental coverage.

Fri., August 7 8:30 - 11:00 a.m.

12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Transfer students should bring health/shot record* and a school transcript. Contact 488-3761 x 9314, for additional information. * The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District requires that all students have current immunizations, including Hep A, Hep B, and Td. NO SHOTS, NO SCHOOL.

herein is a reasonable and economical option.

Contact Risk Management

17351917-8-1-09BTS

459-1392 An equal employment & educational opportunity institution.

Each district school will hand out to every student at the start of school, an application and a brochure describing benefits and premium costs. If you wish to purchase this insurance policy, mail the completed application form to the commercial carrier. This insurance may be purchased at any time during the school year. Coverage is effective the date the commercial carrier receives the application. If you do not receive an application, or have questions on this matter, contact Risk Management at 459-1392.

17354244-8-1-09BTS

Dress Code/Code of Conduct Reminder

NPHS has a dress code as well as a code of conduct. Please be aware that in order to provide a safe and positive learning environment, the dress code and code of conduct are enforced.

Contact the main office after August 1 at 488-3761 if you would like a copy of these policies.

Please see PACK, Page 26

STUDENT ACCIDENT INSURANCE

NPHS Counselors will be available for student registration on the following dates and times at the high school:

Tues., August 4 8:30 - 11:00 a.m.

12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

N.C. The Ergonomics Center, a membership-based consulting and training organization, offers these additional tips for choosing — and using — the best backpack: * Size it up: When shopping for a new backpack, take a tape measure. What works for your teenager will not fit your fourth grader. For a proper fit, a backpack should be no larger than the child’s torso and should not hang more than 4 inches below the waist. Look for a padded pack to help cushion the back and minimize contact pressure. * Strap in: Look for wide, padded straps that adjust easily. The straps should fit snugly, but not tightly. A waist strap offers added support by securing the pack in place and shifting some of the weight from the shoulders to the torso.

Encourage your child to use both shoulder straps and the waist strap. Slinging the pack over one shoulder is a definite no-no.

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Back to School

25

Parents are key to a student’s success in school You’ve heard it before — as a parent you are your child’s first teacher. You alone have more influence than anyone else on his or her behavior, values and work ethic. However, when it comes to getting the school year off to a good start, it always helps to pay attention to what professional educators have to say.

“I love when people want to know what teachers would recommend to parents and students about how to have a successful school year,” said Richard “Dr. Rick” Bavaria, senior vice president for education outreach for Sylvan Learning. “As a 40-year teacher, I’ve picked up a few tips.”

First and foremost, organization is key to a child’s success, Bavaria said. “Get yourself organized. Keep a planner, electronic or written, and keep track of important dates like when book reports are due, tryouts for the school play, the science fair and, of course, tests.”

Maintaining healthy, helpful routines will also make the school year go more smoothly, he added. “Have a regular time for study, recreation, homework, bedtime, mealtime and other important activities,” he said. “Routine gives you structure and a feeling of control.”

Jennifer Alexander, a reading and language arts teacher at Casper Classical Academy in Casper, Wyo., agreed. “Children like routine, so give it to them,” she said. “Classrooms are based on routines and schedules and kids will fit into a schedule at home, too.”

Kindergarten teacher Lacey Voneye of Newcastle, Wyo., said very young children especially need a solid home environment to succeed. “Sleep is a very big thing,” she said. “They also need to eat right and avoid a lot of sweets.

“With the little ones, these basic things are very important. I think little kids generally like school, but they are influenced by what they hear their parents say. So watch what you say.”

Bavaria added that parents should talk to their kids about school every day. “They should also talk to teachers regularly, either during scheduled meetings or through e-mail,” he said. “Know when report cards are distributed, when the major tests are given, when important events are held.

“Let your children know that you know. Keep them on schedule. Nag when you need to. And if you suspect that your student is having difficulty in a subject, get help early. Get a tutor, ask a teacher to help, ask a National Honor Society member, just don’t put it off. It’s easier to solve a problem in its

early stages than when it blossoms into a huge one.”

Alexander said that parents should never forget how key they are to success. “I can’t stress it enough. Parents are the key to our whole educational system. Think of it as a three-legged stool: the child, the school and most important-

ly, the parent,” she said.

No matter what happens during the school year, Bavaria said it is important to keep a positive attitude. “This is true for parents and students alike,” he said. “There will be good days and weeks and there will be not-so-good ones. Keep it all in balanced perspective.”

Register for Fall 2009 Courses July 27- S eptember 4t h Campus Info

Interior-Aleutians Campus 1-800-474-5207

or call CRCD at

1-866-478-2721 Please contact your local campus for courses in your community

College of Rural & Community Development Fall 2009 Schedule online at: www.uaf.edu/rural UAF is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and educational institution.

An Equal Employment & Educational Opportunity Institution

17354591-8-1-09BTS

By DIANE SCHLINDWEIN Creators News Service

Back to School

26

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

PACK: Keep proper size, fit in mind to prevent back pain Continued from Page 24

* Pick pockets: Several smaller compartments, as opposed to one large catchall compartment, keep items secure and allow proper weight distribution. Look for a pack with several larger book compartments near the

back and smaller compartments up front to wrangle supplies. Advise your child to use all of the compartments, rather than stuffing everything in one big pocket. * Grab the wheels: If the school allows it, consider a backpack with wheels. It may be nerdy, but there’s nothing cool about chronic back pain.

Look for a pack that rolls effortlessly and has an easyto-use handle release. Be sure the pack has a lightweight frame that is well padded for those instances when it must be carried. * Lighten the load: Remember that less is more.

Remind your child to carry only the essentials and leave

extra books and belongings at home or in their locker. If your child has to hunch over or angle forward to carry the pack, it’s too heavy.

Don’t be afraid to offer gentle reminders as necessary.

It might sound like nagging, but reminding your child to keep it light and use both shoulder straps will help them

It’s a “Sun”sational

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Don’t Miss Out!

Would you like nuts on that?

Enroll Now and A Plan For Fall e v a !

H Trying to keep your child engaged in learning?

Want a sense of belonging in your school?

Frustrated with the typical school setting?

Star of the North is a public charter school serving students in grades 7-12.

Wed., August 5 Noon - 4pm & 5 - 7pm Thur., August 6 9 - 11am & 1 - 3:30pm Bring birth certificate & current shot record

We offer: • Personalized instruction • Middle School limited to 40 students • Strong start to high school for Ninth Graders • Independent learning encouraged by master teachers

Entry requirements include:

• Have earned at least 14 credits • Be 17 to 19 years old • Be committed to finishing high school

Call 479-4061 to schedule an appointment

POPSICLES for PARENTS

Take charge of your education today!

17354246-8-1-09BTS

Star of the North Secondary does not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, color, gender, national origin, religion or ancestry. Star of the North Secondary is nonsectarian and not affiliated with any religious organization.

Wed., August 12 4 - 6:00 p.m.

951 Airport Way 452-4751

17353176-8-1-09-BTS

Call, visit us online, or pick up an application at: North Pole Campus 2945 Monk Ct., North Pole • 490-9025 http://www.northstar,k12.ak.us/schools/son/snss.html

www.northstar.k12.ak.us/schools/son/snss.html

17354594-8-1-09BTS

Career Education Center 724 27th Ave., Suite 1 Fairbanks, Alaska 99701

Star of the North does not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, color, gender, national origin, religion or ancestry. Star of the North Secondary School is nonsectarian and not affiliated with any religious organization.

Middle School NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION

The Career Education Center is now scheduling interviews for the 2009-2010 school year. CEC allows students flexible schedules to finish high school with a Fairbanks North Star Borough School District diploma.

Earn your high school diploma at the Career Education Center!

form good habits and prevent future problems.

“It is important to consider ergonomics for children as you’re framing the basis of their future perspective on posture,” Sorrells said.

“We should be instilling good habits into them when they are young to protect their futures.”

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Back to School

27

Tackle tough class subjects by making them fun sending.” production, math, science, cell phones, internet) for the to print.

And, she added, “If you’re etc.” problem, along with a decline Parents really control the seeing a pattern to your child’s Rowan blames technology in the amount of time spent The school day may end in struggles in school across overuse (TV, video games, teaching young children how Please see STUDY, Page 28 mid-afternoon, but with home- subjects, it might be worth a work, the learning process can conversation with the school continue right up to supperpsychologist.” time and then some.

If children struggle with Many children have a hard homework, they either lack time developing good habits, skills or motivation, contended Your public libraries offer: especially if they dislike a sub- Jamie Woolf, a California psyject. That can lead to failing chologist and author whose • Free programs for children and teens: storytimes, author visits, book discussions, special grades and family arguments book, “Mom-In Chief: How events during school breaks, and more (see the Calendar of Events on the library’s web page). that turn the homework proWisdom from the Workplace cess into homework horror for Can Save Your Family From • Free library cards for Borough residents. both parent and child. FortuChaos” ($23, Jossey-Bass), nately, it’s fixable, experts say. promotes employing workplace • 24/7 access to the public library’s catalog and web page http://fnsblibrary. org, including Since parents influence techniques for a smoother placing holds, checking your account, and renewing items, all from home! on the way children view family life. “Once you diagnose homework, Emma Kress, a the problem, you will provide • 24/7 online homework resources, including encyclopedias, online reference books such as New York City educational the right kind of help, just as Opposing Viewpoints, and other report topics. consultant, thinks they must good managers do with maradjust their own attitudes. ginal performers,” she said.

• Live online Homework Help from 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm daily – available from your home “Your children listen to you Check your child’s writing computer, too! Use the button on the library’s web page. more than you probably realskills, suggested Cris Rowan, ize. If you moan about hating a Canadian child development • 24/7 access to online periodicals, such as literature information, critiques and analyses, current homework or grumble about a expert focused on the impact events, etc. teacher’s stupid assignments, of technology overuse on then your kid will too,” she children. A salient feature in • Free Internet access, including free wireless access for laptops. said. “If you have work to do children who hate homework, when you get home from the she said, is that they don’t • Small group study rooms at Noel Wien Library (good for working on group projects). office but the first thing you know how to print -- a foundado is kick off your shoes and tion for literacy in all subjects.

• Computers with PowerPoint, Publisher, and word processing; typewriters; printers (color and sit down in front of the TV, “Not having a subconscious black & white at Noel Wien, and black & white at North Pole Branch), copiers, and scanner. then your kid probably will letter and number productoo. I’m not saying you can’t tion affects every subject and • Books, audio books (CDs, tapes, portable player, and downloadable), DVDs and VHS videos, do those things ... just be diverts precious brain power computer and video games, and magazines (save money on subscriptions – read them at the mindful of the messages you’re away from spelling, sentence

By VICKY KATZ WHITAKER Creators News Service

library, or check out past issues to read at home).

• Free tours for classes or other groups.

• Bookmobile services to outlying areas on Saturdays (call or e-mail your requests).

12353818-8-1-09BTS

ual individ n io attent small s classe nal o i t a c u ed g inspirin ment e v e i h ac

• Access to the public library when school isn’t in session (afternoons, evenings, weekends, and summer) to provide you with informational and recreational reading materials.

North Pole Branch Library 601 Snowman Lane, North Pole, AK 99705 (907) 488-6101 Tuesday and Wednesday 11 am to 9 pm Thursday and Friday 11 am to 6 pm Saturday 11 am to 5pm Sunday and Monday Closed

Outreach Services: Bookmobile (907) 459-1031 bookmobile@fnsblibrary.org See schedule on the Calendar of Events on our web page.

Visit us at: http://fnsblibrar y. org

17354292-8-1-09BTS

1050 Deere St. #4 Vern Devlin, III Dan Instructor Fairbanks, Alaska 99709 (907) 978-9872 (907) 474-3746 http://www.myspace.com/485360060

Fairbanks North Star Borough Public Library (Noel Wien Library) 1215 Cowles Street, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 459-1020 (Main telephone number) (907) 459-1052 (Youth Services Department) Monday through Thursday 10 am to 9 pm Friday 10 am to 6 pm Saturday 10 am to 5 pm Sunday (Sept. to May) 1 pm to 5 pm

Back to School

28

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

STUDY: Provide consistent environment for homework Continued from Page 27

learning environment, noted Eva Patrikakou, director of DePaul University’s Special Education for Teachers program in Chicago. “Homework is a form of parental involvement and it should not be done on the fly,” she said.

“Nor should it be processed in

isolation from the school and what the teacher does in the classroom.”

Because they get lonely, young children especially need a parent nearby, said Pennsylvania child psychologist Dr. Tamar Chansky. “Sit near them and do your reading or catch up on bills or letters.

They will gain comfort from

your presence but will be working independently.”

If a child dislikes a subject, talk about it, urged Laura Olsen, vice president of education for the Kiddie Academy, a network of child day care and education centers across the U.S. “As adults, we are well aware that we are going to have to do things that we

would rather not. Explain to your child that you understand she doesn’t like a certain subject area, but it is still her responsibility to complete the work. Work together to figure out a good way to get the homework completed, whether that means sitting with her and cheering her on or allowing her to work on it in short

amounts of time with many breaks.”

Games can also help you accomplish that goal, she added. “Children love to play games. Turning the dreaded homework assignment into an enjoyable game will help your child complete his work without the usual moaning and groaning.”

SCHOOL AGE CARE Ages 5 to 10 years New Program! Try us!

Providing Care for Before and After School and on non-school days — year round!

Transportation to many area schools #1 DAYC

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Chugach Home School Extension - Now Enrolling PreK-12th Grade We help Families Inspire the Future by working with parents, students, and the community to provide unique educational guidance and opportunities.

Contact the Office Nearest You: Fairbanks: 457-2545 • Anchorage 522-7400 • Valdez 835- 5528 • Talkeetna 733- 2402 www.chugachschools.com

Career Development

Outdoor Leadership

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Your family can choose: • To be your child's teacher • What your children learn • What activities you participate in • Your child's learning pace • Experiences to meet individual needs • What materials you use • To teach at home or while traveling Arts ...YOUR FUTURE Chugach School District provides: • Friendly and Prompt Professional Support • Guidance & Accountability e • Fieldtrips, Activities, and Classes m Co • Learning Styles Testing e h • Outdoor Leadership & Career Training Opportunities Join T ! n • Allotment Funding u F • Parent Training Opportunities • Flexibility • Transition Scholarships to Graduates Field Trips OPEN FOR STATEWIDE ENROLLMENT PK -12th Grade

29

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Promote healthy eating habits

By BETH WOOD Creators News Service

FNSBSD Special Education Surrogates Needed FNSBSD Special Education is in need of volunteers/ advocates representing children placed in foster care.

The volunteers are educational representative during the child’s need for Special Education services.

Training is required at no cost to the volunteer.

For more information, call Roxanne Janiro, Special Education Department at 452-2000 ext: 445.

AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY INSTITUTION.

Please see EATING, Page 30

17354247-8-1-09BTS

Are you worried about your child’s eating habits? Anyone up on the news knows that obesity is on the rise among children in the U.S.: According to an article in the April issue of Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, nearly one-fifth of American 4-year-olds are obese.

Whether in preschool, high school or in between, helping children learn their way around a kitchen can promote good eating habits and stem the tide of obesity and diseases like diabetes.

Lisa Druxman, creator and owner of Stroller Strides, an exercise and nutrition company with 900 locations across the country, is concerned that eating at restaurants and picking up fast food contribute to overweight kids.

“By teaching your children the love of cooking, you are building a foundation for healthier eating for their lifetime,” Druxman said. “Kids are proud of the food that they make and are more likely to eat it if they participate in the cooking.”

Druxman’s 7-year-old son, Jacob, is a prime example of the benefits of cooking with children.

“I have invited Jacob to be in the kitchen with me since he was a toddler,” she said. “As he has gotten older, I have used cooking to help with reading and math. He has gained confidence and an understanding of basic cooking skills and now likes to venture off and create his own recipes.

“There is always something age-appropriate they can do, whether it’s mixing,

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

EATING: Get kids involved in cooking, growing their food Continued from Page 29

pouring in an ingredient or setting the table.”

If you like a neat and organized kitchen, be prepared: Druxman, who also has a 3-year-old daughter, Rachel, warned that things get a little crazy.

“It’s a bit chaotic. The more I let go, the more fun we have,” she said. “We have a make-your-own-pizza night.

The kids get to make their dough, roll it and put on their own toppings. Flour and top-

2009

HIGH HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL TENNIS TENNIS

pings are everywhere. But they just love it.”

If you need guidance, Web and print resources abound.

Druxman recommended “Mom and Me Cookbook” by Annabel Karmel ($13, DK Children), who also wrote “The Toddler Cookbook” ($13, DK Children).

Kidshealth.org, a wideranging website of The Nemours Foundation, features nutritious recipes, safety tips and a step-by-step guide called “Cooking with Kids.” It also includes recipes for kids

Students You can play high school tennis!

Call FTA 347-4538

for your high school practice time & location.

FTA has a no-cut policy.

All levels encouraged to play 10353175-8-1-09BTS

FTA thanks our sponsors Alyeska-Pipeline Service Company, Mt. McKinley Bank & Sportsmedicine

with diabetes and those with lactose intolerance.

The Association of Junior Leagues International’s kidsinthekitchen.ajli.org also offers healthy recipes for children as well as nutritionsavvy games and activities.

Stretching beyond the kitchen, kids also grow from cultivating a garden. If you don’t have an outside space for it, see if a community garden is active nearby or check with your children’s school.

“When Jacob was two, we started a garden,” Druxman recalled. “It’s now a yearly ritual for us. There is nothing more amazing, even for me, than to see a seed turn into a plant and then into something that you eat. We pick our own lettuce, tomatoes, carrots and cucumbers for our salads and pick our own berries to go on our oatmeal. My kids are so much more interested in eating these things when they come from the garden.”

Whether from the garden, farmer’s market or grocery store, sharing the whole food process — from the beginning to the end of a tasty dish — can make a difference in a child’s health now and for a lifetime. Here are some reci-

All About Kids Child Care Center 2894 Elvira & Badger

JACOB’S GREEN EGG PIZZA DISH Nonstick cooking spray 1/4 cup chopped frozen spinach 1/2 cup grated cheese Two eggs Salt and pepper to taste Yields 1 serving

Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray a nonstick frying pan with cooking oil. Heat spinach in the pan so it defrosts. In a separate bowl, mix eggs with grated cheese. Add salt and pepper.

Pour into the frying pan with spinach. Mix slightly.

Put in the oven until eggs set.

Cut into slices and serve like pizza.

All Battle Books are always 25% off at Gulliver’s!

&

School Age Program

Stop in and ask for a copy of the new battle book list and take advantage of the great savings!

3132 Badger Road

GULLIVER’S BOOKS New and Used

1-800-390-8999 • www.gullivers-books.com • 474-9574

3525 College Road (near University Ave.) Second Story Cafe

11354042-8-1-09BTS

16353984-8-1-09BTS

Licensed for 6 yrs. to 12 yrs.

5:30 am to 6:00 pm Monday thru Friday

488-0678

pes to get started:

The 2009-2010 Battle Books are in stock!

Licensed for Newborn to 6 yrs.

5:30 am - 6:00 pm Monday thru Friday

Transportation provided to Badger Road Elementary, North Pole Elementary, Ticasuk Brown Elementary

Creators News Service

Want your kids to eat healthier? Teaching them how to cook or even garden encourages good eating and food choices.

Back to School

Saturday, August 1, 2009

31

EATING: Easy, healthy kid-friendly recipes readily available Continued from Page 30

— Recipe courtesy of Lisa Druxman

BLACK BEAN BURGERS 1 15-ounce can of black beans, drained 1/3 cup red onion, chopped 1⁄2 cup frozen corn 1⁄2 cup frozen spinach 1⁄4 cup salsa 1⁄2 cup low-fat cheddar cheese 1 teaspoon cumin 1⁄2 cup bread crumbs

whole-wheat pita pockets Yields 6 servings Using clean hands, mash beans in large mixing bowl.

Add onion, corn, spinach, salsa, cheese and cumin. Mix in bread crumbs gradually until mixture is firm enough to form patties, adding more if necessary. Form into 12 small patties.

Cook in non-stick sauté pan over medium-high heat for 3 minutes per side or bake in 375 F oven for 15 minutes, turning once. Patties can also be grilled for 3 minutes per side. Serve in whole-wheat

$50

Sports Physic als

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(907) 455-7123 • Dr. S. Gayle Carpenter

N EW S HOT

R EQUIREMENT !

Immunizaton records must be medically verified with signatures of a professional MD, DO, ANP, or PA, along with a date, in order to be accepted as proof.

Valid thru September 1, 2009.

1919 Lathrop #106 • Medical Dental Arts Bldg., Fairbanks

Spread coconut onto another large plate. Slide pieces of fruit onto the skewer. Do this until the stick is almost covered from end to end. Hold your kabob at the ends and roll in yogurt, so fruit gets covered. Then roll in coconut.

Repeat with another skewer.

— Recipe courtesy of kidshealth.org

Due to an increase in the number of chickenpox cases nationwide, beginning July 1, 2009, the State of Alaska requires all students in grades K-6 to have two doses of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine. Those students who have not been vaccinated will not be permitted to attend school until adequately immunized.

Cash or Credit Cards Only Available for all school age children.

Must present coupon at time of appointment

Midnight Sun Family Medicine, P.C.

grapes pita pockets.

— Recipe courtesy of Chris2/3 cup pineapple chunks tina L. Rutan/kidsinthekitch1 cup nonfat yogurt en.ajli.org.

1/4 c. dried coconut, shredded FUN FRUIT KABOBS Yields 4 servings Wash grapes. Wash apples 1 apple and cut into small squares.

1 banana 1/3 cup red seedless grapes Peel bananas and cut into chunks. Cut the pineapple 1/3 cup green seedless into chunks, if fresh.

PRESCHOOL Registration

He re are th e th ree im porta nt ste p s you sh ou l d ta k e: 1) Conta ct you r fa m ily hea lth provide r a n d /or clin ic.

2) Schedu l e a ti m e to ha ve you r child im m u n i zed.

3) Provide you r childÕ s school with a record of th e im m u n i zation for chicke n pox.

YOUR CHILD’S IMMUNIZATIONS MUST BE VERIFIED BY A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL.

BRIGHT BEGINNINGS LEARNING CENTER

Contact your family healthcare provider, or the Public Health Center.

Shot clinics will be available on the following dates:

Now taking applications for part time preschool for the 2009-2010 school year.

August 10, 11 and 12: Public Health Center from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM August 13: North Pole Fire Department from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM

For more information about the shot clinics call: 452-1776.

Due to this new regulation, a large number of parents will be seeking appointments for immunizations prior to the first day of school. We encourage you to act swiftly.

3411 Lathrop St.

near Van Horn Road

18353665-8-1-09BTS

Gymnastics Inc. 456-2263

An Equal Employment & Educational Opportunity Institution

17354590 8-1-09 BTS

To submit your child’s updated immunization records, or for more information, contact the School District’s Nursing Coordinator at 452-2000 ext. 253 or email: chickenpox@northstar.k12.ak.us

For more information call

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Welcome to the new school year!

The beginning of the new school year is an exciting time for all of us. The coming 10 months will be full of hard work, responsibility, laughter, and learning. We’re eager to get started.

Our community is blessed to have excellent teachers and education support professionals who work as a team to provide a quality education for the children of Fairbanks. The single most important ingredient in student achievement is a quality teacher in every classroom, supported by quality support staff.

Teachers and education support professionals also play key roles in encouraging Fairbanks students to stay in school and earn their high school diploma. We focus on high expectations and respect for all our students.

Joining with parents and the community, we work toward a goal that all of us share: graduation success for every student.

BJ Cortez 18-year school custodian, now at West Valley High

Larry Ehnert Fairbanks BP Teacher of the Year

Marilyn Wenzlick Administrative Secretary, school district employee since 1972, now at Nordale Elementary

Fairbanks Education Association & Education Support Staff Association 2118 S. Cushman, Fairbanks 99701 Phone 456-4435; Fax 456-2159

18354131-8-1-09BTS

Hilary Wilson Circuit riding school psychologist