JANUARY 2022
9 Ways TO
CELEBRATE MLK Day The Ultimate Guide to TEEN TOURS Books for the Kids Who Want to Know it All
6
Ring in the New Year
Setting realistic intentions for 2022
School Open House Events pg. 24
PS VISION
PS CARE Prospect Sierra students engage in deep academic work, practice skills to hone greater self-knowledge, and demonstrate compassion and care for others. Immersed in a joyful school community, they develop a lifelong love of learning.
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PS JOY
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14 | How do You Teach Your Children to be More Mindful?
. . . AND MO R E
22 | Setting Intentions in the New Year 32 | The Ultimate Guide to Teen Tours
34 6 Good to Know
• Looking for a Great Summer Camp? • Top Baby Names in 2021 • Internet Safety
10 Honoring and Remembering Brown v. Board of Education
32
12 Book Club
6 Books for the Eager to Leran
24 School Open House Events 30 Organizing Kids’ School Papers and Artwork 34 Celebrate Martin Luther King Day with Your Kids January 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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TOP BABY Names in 2021
L
iam and Olivia topped the list of the most popular baby names in 2021, according to Babycenter.com. New names to appear on the top ten boy’s list are Levi and Asher, bumping off William and Benjamin. There are no new names on the girl’s top ten list but two names, Charlotte and Amelia, move up the list in popularity.
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January 2022
Here’s the top ten baby names in 2021: MALE 1. Liam 2. Noah 3. Oliver 4. Elijah 5. Lucas 6. Levi 7. Mason 8. Asher 9. James 10. Ethan
FEMALE 1. Olivia 2. Emma 3. Amelia 4. Ava 5. Sophia 6. Charlotte 7. Isabella 8. Mia 9. Luna 10. Harper
Take Five (or 20) minutes to tackle a little post-holiday toy overload and pare down clutter with these 5 steps. 1. Look for things which never get used 2. Remove toys your kids have outgrown 3. Say goodbye to toys with missing or broken parts 4. Create a temporary home for items you are not sure about removing 5. Ask kids if there are toys, books, crafts that they no longer want or need that can be donated to children in need
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Good to Know
INTERNET SAFETY By Deirdre Farrelly
422
This is how many calories a 155-pound adult can burn while skiing for one hour at a moderate speed. A 70-pound kiddo burns around 185 calories exerting the same amount of effort on the slopes. If pure exhilaration isn’t enough to get you active this winter, then surely the promise of a good sweat can’t hurt!
What age to begin to Ski or Skate?
H T
he internet can be a wealth of knowledge for kids. It can be used for school work, for curious minds to find answers and now, more than ever, as a way to connect with friends. While it can be fun, the internet can also be dangerous so it is important to talk to your child about safe internet habits. Your child should never, under any circumstances exchange any personal information with someone they meet online. Keeping the computer in a common area is an easy way to help monitor what your child is searching. Phones and tablets should also be used in a common area. Sit with your child and teach them about appropriate sites and behavior. Creating bookmarks of your child’s favorite sites is a great way to help them navigate to safe sites. Monitor phone and credit card bills for any unusual charges. Some common signs that your child may be targeted by an online predator is more time spent online, phone calls, withdraw from family life and your child hiding the phone or turning the computer off when you walk into a room. Talk with your child about speaking up if someone makes them feel uncomfortable and remind them that people will often lie to obtain personal information. They need to understand why it is important to never give out personal information to strangers such as addresses and passwords. There are online tools for caregivers to set up alerts, parent control options and block certain sites. By taking a few simple steps, you can ensure your child uses the internet for safe fun, entertainment and to connect with family and friends.
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January 2022
eading to the mountains? Take advantage of the season’s chill factor by introducing kids to winter sports. In terms of lessons, skiing and snowboarding generally start at age 6, although you can slide a pair of skis onto your little as soon as you can find a pair small enough. Ice skating lessons start as early as age 4.
Hug It Out J
ust when you thought the warm fuzzies of the holidays were over, brace yourself (or someone else!) for National Hugging Day on January 21. The super-sweet celebration was originated in 1986. There’s a reason this simple act is so beloved. Hugs can actually boost your oxytocin levels, which help admonish feelings of loneliness and anger. They can also increase your serotonin levels, the chemical responsible for lifting your spirits. Couldn’t we all use a little more of that in our lives?
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9
Honoring and Remembering Brown v. Board of Education By Mary Ann Scheuer
Local Educator Writes Play and Collaborates with Granddaughter of Earl Warren
S
ixty-five years ago, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously in the case of Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, declaring that racial segregation in public schools is unconstitutional. Dr. Cindy Acker, a local educator and social justice activist, has written a play honoring and remembering this momentous occasion, using the exact words from the Brown courtroom and the words of Chief Justice Earl Warren. Words That Made the Difference: Brown vs Board of Education explores an important issue in understanding the issue of the work
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January 2022
to end systemic racism in education, and the courage of those who stood up. It explores three historic situations, the first year of desegregation of all schools in the city of Sausalito, the unanimous pardoning, 125 years later, of Homer Plessy in Plessy vs Ferguson, the court case which set the precedent for most issues of further and continued segregation, and the expungement of Claudette Colvin, the first recorded person to refuse to give up her seat on a bus. Dr. Acker is the founder and head of Child Unique Montessori Preschool and the Montes-
sori Elementary Intermediate School of Alameda. “Social justice is a passion of mine,” Acker says. When she realized that this year marks the 65th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, she started to wonder about the courage and strength of those involved: the plaintiffs, the attorneys for the NAACP, and the Supreme Court justices. “I knew that it was a unanimous court case decision. I wanted to know the why behind it.” The U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously that racially segregated schools violate the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution. In writing her play, Acker wanted to capture this moment for the audience and ask what it took to win this battle. “This was such a record of courage, justice and forthrightness. We so need these qualities right now. It moved me to analyze the information and try to show it from many different sides.” In the play, Acker holds true to the integrity of the court case, using the attorneys’ words as they argued the case. “Those words made a difference and brought about a unanimous decision.” She juxtaposes the attorneys’ arguments with reflections from Earl Warren and Thurgood Marshall as these historical characters directly address the audience, providing context. As Acker began this project, Earl Warren’s granddaughter Debra Warren reached out to her to offer her help and support. Acker reflects that Warren “was such a humble man. I was looking for greatness, and what I learned was that he operated from his ideologies, formed from the way he grew up and the way he saw the world.” Growing up in California gave Warren perspective on racial diverse communities and progressive politics. During Warren’s first year on the Supreme Court, he led the Court to declare a unanimous decision in Brown v. Board of Education. As for what she hopes the audience will take away from watching this performance, Acker says, “In the midst of this world as we have it now, it is possible for someone to be just and to be fair. I am also hoping that viewers will be able to understand what it feels like to be considered as something different — to hear the words of people who are racist and to hear the words of justice, and to align themselves with courage.” As she was writing the play, Acker realized that her own parents grew up in Kansas during the same time period as Linda Brown, going to segregated schools. While they never talked about this experience, Acker reflects that “they were adamant that I go to a good school” and get a good education. “I never got their push toward education, but it all came together when I started reflecting on this momentous court case.” Words That Made the Difference will be performed on January 15th in Alameda, at Rhythmix Cultural Works. Tickets are available at https://www.rhythmix.org/ events/brown-vs-the-board-of-education/
RECOMMENDED READING “Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family’s Fight for Desegregation,” by Duncan Tonatiuh (ages 6-9). “Brown v. Board of Education: A Fight for Simple Justice,” by Susan Goldman Rubin (ages 12 and up) “The First Step: How One Girl Put Segregation on Trial,” by Susan E. Goodman, illustrated by E. B. Lewis (ages 6-9). “The Girl from the Tar Paper School: Barbara Rose Johns and the Advent of the Civil Rights Movement,” by Teri Kanefield (ages 10-14).
January 2022 | ParentsPress.com
11
Book Club
F
OR THE KID WHO WANTS TO KNOW IT ALL!
Cover topics from amazing rivers to bacteria to Cleopatra. These impressively detailed books will keep the kids engaged and entertained as well as expand their minds.
LISTIFIED Ever wondered which 10 dinosaurs were the largest, and what they weighed… in cats? Or how much of your DNA you share with other animals…and bananas? Enter the listiverse and get ready to see the world in a whole new way. Listified! takes the best and most amazing parts of the universe-erupting volcanoes, medieval machines, jumping spiders, exploding stars and everything in between and organizes them into quirky list form for curious kids and their friends and family to enjoy. Age: 8-12
BRITANNICA’S FIRST BIG BOOK OF WHY Britannica’s huge, authoritative, and lavishly illustrated question and answer book will satisfy even the most curious kids, with over 100 questions verified by Britannica experts. Spanning a range of topics including animals, the body, machines, space, and more, this book provides clear and accessible explanations and even explores some of the mysteries that experts are still trying to solve! Age: 4-8
EARTH IS BIG: A BOOK OF COMPARISONS Get to know our planet in a whole new way by comparing it to a huge variety of other incredible things— from tiny particles to giant star clusters. Did you know soap bubbles are some of the roundest objects in the universe? Or that we humans are totally outnumbered by chickens? Or that the driest desert on Earth isn’t scorching but freezing? Tour some of the most extreme places on the planet and beyond it, take a look at life forms from bacteria to elephants to redwood trees, and explore what makes our planet the perfect home for us. Age: 6-11
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January 2022
FACTOPIA! Hop from topic to topic in unexpected and delightful ways, and discover what connects a giraffe with the Eiffel tower, or a slice of pizza with Cleopatra. On your aweinspiring journey, you will find out extraordinary facts about space, bones, dinosaurs and more. Age: 8-12
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to enjoy the baby as much and may feel deprived of both their mate and their expectations of what fatherhood would be like. No one can imagine what daily life will be like with a new baby. Of course, no one has the time or energy to talk about this, so it’s no wonder that both parents can wind up
to life than a good meal and a nap. In facts youmore can provides fact, by thetrust end of her third month, she’ll hundreds be so delighted to see her dad that you’ll of hours see ofherfun learning curious get excited and animated for just seeHEALTH & WELLNESS his face. So be patient, support each children ing and their families. Age: 8-12 other through this difficult time, and you’ll
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see if you qualify, contact: City of Berkeley WIC Program 830 University City of Berkeley WICAve Program Berkeley,Ave CA 94710 830 University 510.981.5360 Berkeley, CA 94710 Migrant families are welcome! 510.981.5360 wicprogram@cityofberkeley.info Migrant Visit families are welcome! us at www.cityofberkeley.info/publichealth wicprogram@cityofberkeley.info Do you with health care? Do you while are pregnant? Please Do youneed needhelp help with health care? Doneed you care need careyou while you call Berkeley Public Health at Berkeley 510-981-5300. pregnant? Please call Public Health at 510-981-5300. Visit us atare www.cityofberkeley.info/publichealth We canhelp helpwith with community forincome low and middle incomeHealthy families. We can programs for lowprograms and middle families. (Medi-Cal,
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Is yourparenting son or daughter already in an out-of-home placement and are you looking This six-week group starting in early March offers help and support during stressful times. to connect with other parents in the same situation? Cindy Rasicot, MFT is in private practice in Lafayette, California with a specialization in adoption issues. She is a DirectorThis of Willows in the Wind, www.willowsinthewind.com six-week parenting group starting in early March offers help and support during stressful times.
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13
How do You Teach Your Children to be More Mindful? By Carole Kramer Arsenault
W
e often hear the challenges in teaching mindfulness—how do you teach your children to be more mindful? One of the most popular questions we get asked is can mindfulness even be taught? The short answer, yes. There are many techniques parents and childcare providers can teach children how to be more self-aware in the present
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January 2022
moment. Mindfulness is a powerful tool that can have a positive impact on a child’s development, mental health and wellbeing. For example, children who are taught mindfulness at a young age are more likely to be confident, patient, stress resilient, and have healthy coping mechanisms. Mindfulness starts at home—you must be present, calm, stress savvy to help raise a mindful and self-
aware child, and be willing to practice along with them! Taking part in mindfulness activities with your child will help in your own practice, as well as further advance your family’s learnings. Here are five techniques that can help raise more mindful children: Children’s Yoga Yoga is a great way for children to calm their bodies, transition between activities, or settle down before bed.
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Consider leveraging children’s books to help teach your children about yoga, mindfulness, and movement. Sleepy Little Yoga, by Rebecca Whitford and Goodnight Yoga, by Mariam Gates are great books to read together. You can also find great resources on YouTube such as the Cosmic Kids Yoga stories. Responsive, Loving Care Studies show that infants and toddlers exposed to lots of nurturing touch are more likely to develop into stress-resilient adults. Positive affirmation, physical affection, friendly talk and sympathetic body language help to develop your children into a more self-compassionate human being. This allows children to view themselves from a place of self love and acceptance, rather than a place of judgement. All of these tactics teach children to cope with their negative emotions, as well as develop secure, healthy attachment relationships.
Meditation Jar A meditation jar is a great way to relax a child’s mind from stress and/ or anxiety-provoking thoughts, and creates an easy-to-understand way to teach children about meditation. The visualization of glitter in the jar and what it represents teaches children to be still in these moments of “chaos”. Visualization is great for kids. Even if they cannot articulate the concept in words, their brain absorbs this information and learns that eventually their mind and body will calm and settle as well. Ready Moody Cow Meditates, by Kerry MacLean is a great book to teach meditation as well. Breathing Practices Teaching breathing is a way to practice mindfulness in children and allows them to focus their attention solely on breathing. Over time this will help them learn how to concentrate on one thing at a
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January 2022
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Positive affirmation, physical affection, friendly talk and sympathetic body language help to develop your children into a more self-compassionate human being. time. Breathing techniques can help children redirect their focus away from an upsetting situation, such as a scraped knee or lost toy. Long deep breaths supply oxygen to the brain which signals your parasympathetic nervous system to relax and calm your body. Emotional Mindfulness with Children Emotional regulation is enhanced through mindfulness. Being mindful allows you to be present and therefore aware of your emotions so you are able to process your feelings. Self-regulation, or the ability to intentionally manage one’s emotional resources to accomplish goals, is crucial in everyday life. Parents and
caregivers should always model sharing feelings, so children can feel comfortable talking about them as well. In addition, parents and nannies should model appropriate ways to handle their emotions with coping techniques that children can use and learn from. Children’s minds are like sponges, so it’s essential to model a behavior that promotes positive influences. Carole Kramer Arsenault is an RN, author of Newborn 101. As a parent educator and founder of a childcare staffing agency, Carole has more than a decade of experience working with thousands of families to help them source childcare and match them with top-notch providers that best fits their family’s needs.
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January 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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Fearless, W
COMM
Find out more a 18 Parents Press |
January 2022
We Pursue
MUNITY
at shcp.edu/visit January 2022 | ParentsPress.com
19
Financial Aid:
BASIC INFORMATION YOU SHOULD KNOW
E
very private school has its own policies about who receives financial aid, what types of aid are awarded, and how much aid a particular family will receive. In most cases, the financial aid office cannot tell you if your family will qualify for financial aid until you submit an application that allows the school to evaluate your unique situation.
a list of organizations that have provided scholarships to their students in the past, and check the list on parents.nais.org. Each scholarship program will have its own eligibility rules, application, and deadlines. Tuition loans are personal loans provided by a private lender. You must apply directly to the lender, and your loan amount and interest rate will depend on the lender’s credit requirements. Some use loans to sion shortly after your child is pay for expenses not covered by HOW SCHOOLS DETERMINE admitted to a particular school. a grant. ELIGIBILITY FOR FINANCIAL AID Tuition Payment Plans allow To determine your eligibility for TYPES OF FINANCIAL AID you to make monthly payments financial aid, you must submit an AVAILABLE rather than writing one or two Grants are the most common application form and financial large checks each year. Schools type of financial aid offered statements. There is no income offer payment plans through a by private schools. They are limit that automatically makes third-party financial services awarded annually to students your family ineligible for financompany, which charges a relawho demonstrate financial need, cial aid. Financial aid officers tively small fee. and students must re-apply each take into account your income, Sibling discounts are designed year. Grant money comes from assets, and expenses, includto help families with more than the school’s budget and does not ing educational costs for other one child enrolled in the same have to be paid back. children. school. Many schools are shrinkMerit scholarships awarded Bottom line: If you feel your ing these discounts, or phasing by the school are rare and are family cannot afford to pay the them out altogether. Even so, it’s usually reserved for students full cost, regardless of your inworth asking if this situation apcome, it’s worth the effort to sub- who have a special talent that plies to you. the school is seeking, such as mit a financial aid application. Most families pay for tuition art, music, or academics. GenerWHEN TO APPLY through a combination of these ally, scholarships are based on options. The school’s financial Every school has its own financial need. They may be aid officer can help you create financial aid schedule, and awarded once, annually, or as a financing plan that fits your the deadlines are different for long as the student meets the family’s needs. Don’t hesitate to schools with rolling admissions. scholarship criteria. ask questions and explore all the In general, most financial aid apScholarships from outside options available to you. plications are due in January or organizations are also rare, and February. Check with your school often awarded by local chapReprinted with the permission from Naof choice for the deadline. You ters of national groups like the tional Association of Independent Schools, will receive a financial aid decinais.org. Rotary Club. Ask the school for 20 Parents Press | January 2022
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Setting Intentions
By Sarah Lyons
in the New Year
A H T A E
Y H T EAL
Set realistic and reachable intentions If 36% of people give up on their New Year’s Resolutions by February, it is likely they are not setting goals that are realistic or reachable. When setting resolutions, choose intentions that make sense. Goals that are interesting, fun, and that you
22 Parents Press |
January 2022
new year, a new start. Each year 62% of Americans make New Year’s Resolutions hoping to make positive and healthy changes. According to Statisticbrain.com, statistics show that within the first two weeks 25% of those same Americans have given up on their goals and only 8% reach their ultimate goal by the end of the year. These numbers are not encouraging. In 2019, try focusing on setting positive intentions rather than unrealistic resolutions that may fizzle out faster than you can say Happy New Year. are motivated to keep are more likely to end in success. If you want to read more, set a goal of reading a certain number of books or completing a challenging but interesting book series. If weight loss is a goal, choose a fun way to reach your goal weight. If you despise running, don’t plan to shed pounds on the treadmill. Pick an activity you love and incorporate it into your exercise routine while choosing healthy
Don’t overdo it
LOSE
WEIG
HT
meal options. “I made a reading goal this year to read my age in books.” says Stephanie Loux, mom of three. “It was a fun self-care resolution which made it easier to reach. It also helped me discuss books with friends.”
Many people make the mistake of setting too many intentions or goals that are not attainable, setting themselves up for failure. When you are creating your intentions, list all the areas that you would like to work on. Once you have a list, narrow it down to the items that are realistic, measurable, and come with a reward. Prioritize and categorize your goals. Can you consolidate any? Do you see a theme? Which goals are you most excited about? Make your list again and try to be as specific as possible in order to give yourself the best chance of success. If you have several that you would like to achieve, keep your list around so that you can move onto another goal after you complete one of your resolutions. “I find that setting goals for shorter terms, say three months, is easier to stick to than a yearlong endeavor.” says Kelly Lawton of Olathe. “It allows me to reevaluate my progress and reset or restart as I need without the guilt.”
Reward yourself Speaking of celebrating, don’t forget to set some rewards for yourself as you are choosing your New Year’s intentions. This will help motivate you to follow through when things get challenging. Some ideas could include - “If I lose 15 pounds, I will buy three new outfits.” or for your child “If you complete your reading goals, you can pick a special toy”. Pick a reward that is enough to motivate you or your child and work together towards your goal.
O D ER O V ’T N O D
How will you know if you have reached your goals? Many people give up on their resolutions because they don’t know how to achieve them or when they have been completed. Examples of immeasurable goals include “Get healthy”, “Become more organized” or “Save money”. Be specific when setting intentions. How will you become healthier? Does that include changing your eating habits? Incorporating exercise? What type of exercise and how often? Your goals need to be both measurable and specific so that you know how to achieve them. Goals such as “Raise my grade in science class from a B to an A”, “Read one book a month” or “Save x amount of dollars for a family vacation” are all goals that are both specific and measurable. These types of intentions are great because you know exactly how to reach them, when you have reached them, and when to celebrate your success.
IT
Set measurable and specific intentions
While coming up with a list of intentions for the year, keep them positive. Give yourself permission to create intentions that are fun rather than a punishment or chore. When we create goals that are actually accomplishable and set rewards for our completion of them, we are much more likely to be successful. Sarah Lyons is a part time freelance writer and a full-time mom of six.
Source: (www.statisticbrain.com)
January 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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Open House Events
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The Athenian School Upper School Open House: January 9, 2022 @ 1:00 pm Middle School Open House January 8, 2022 @ 1:00 pm 2100 Mt Diablo Scenic Blvd www.athenian.org
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Renaissance International School Open House - All Levels January 22, 2022 @ 9:30 am Virtual Information Session Kinder - Elementary January 12, 2022 @ 9:30 am Pre-Primary - Primary January 26, 2022 @ 9:30 am 3650 Dimond Ave www.therenaissanceschool.org
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Cow Hollow School Learning Tour January 6, 2022 @ 9:00 am January 21, 2022 @ 9:00 am 65 Funston Avenue www.cowhollowschool.org/ Nomad Middle School Open House January 10, 2022 @ 5:30 pm 2592 Folsom Street www.sf-nomad.com
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The Seven Hills School College Counseling January 19, 2022 @ 12:00 pm Student and Parent Panel January 20, 2022 @ 7:00 pm 975 N San Carlos Dr www.sevenhillsschool.org/
Holy Names High School
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VISIT THE HOLY NAMES CAMPUS In person and virtual campus tours available. THE ALL GIRLS ADVANTAGE Young women find their voice and develop leadership skills in an all-girls environment. 100% COLLEGE ADVANCEMENT Each student works one-on-one with a college advisor for four years. Our graduates are prepared for success in college.
24 Parents Press | November 2021
Apply now! or inquire at www.eb.org/admissions INTERNATIONAL - FRENCH - AMERICAN
An Athenian education prepares students for a life of purpose and personal fulfillment 75-acre campus of rolling, oak-covered hills lies at the base of Mt. Diablo in Danville, CA just 32 miles East of San Francisco. Athenian buses transport students to and from many East Bay communities. Join us at an Open House: Middle – Nov 13 or Jan 8 | Upper – Nov 14 or Jan 9
Life is an adventure of intellectual exploration and meaningful contribution.
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Carlos Trujillo, Bishop O’Dowd High School Math Department Chair, teaching Advanced Placement Calculus.
s e r u t u F c i m a n in Math Dy Bishop O’Dowd High School Moves Students Ahead of the Curve
“T
here’s a problem with how we teach math in the United States,”
explains Carlos Trujillo, Chair of Bishop O’Dowd High School’s Math Department. “The standard course sequence dates back to the Industrial Revolution. It’s not setting students up to master the skills they need to succeed in today’s world.”
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January 2022
In an effort to accelerate student access to upper-level courses like Pre Calculus and Finite Math, the O’Dowd Math Department made a decision in 2018 to eliminate a more basic Algebra 2 course, instead offering an unleveled Algebra 2 Trigonometry to all students. “By shifting every student into this more advanced class, we opened the gates for them to engage earlier in college prep courses that
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lean more towards their interests, whether that’s traditional STEM, business, or social entrepreneurship,” says Trujillo. Along those lines, the Department also added AP Computer Science Principles in 2016. “We’ve seen that course jump from 24 students in 2016, to 100 students this year,” Trujillo reports. O’Dowd’s Math Department has also intentionally modernized its teaching methods, transitioning the classroom to a “flipped model” where students might watch a teaching video the night before class to preview concepts, and then come to class prepared to practice. “One of the
most necessary skills in today’s world is collaboration,” Trujillo notes. “We’re supporting students to work in groups and attack a problem together. We want classes to be spaces of active learning, instead of passively taking lecture notes. And we’ve found that students master and own the material much more deeply through this model.” Last year, in accordance with leadingedge research from the Stanford Graduate School of Education, The University of Chicago, and a growing cadre of mathematicians, data scientists, teachers, and education policy leaders, O’Dowd’s CONTINUED NEXT PAGE >
AP Calculus students prepare for their end of semester finals.
January 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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< CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28
Math Department developed a new two-year geometry, algebra, and trigonometry sequence—an innovative course remodel designed to prepare students to be problem solvers in today’s tech and data economy.
thinking that matter for problem solving. It’s like an exponential function. Our student’s mastery will compound and accelerate over four years and put them at an advantage when it comes to pursuing STEM careers.”
As it stands now, most U.S. math students learn The shift also opens the pathways for all students a sequence of Algebra 1 (one year), Geometry (one to take AP Calculus by their junior or senior year year), Algebra 2 (one year). “This math track is like —something less than 10 percent of students were learning to play piano one year, switching to cello for previously able to achieve. another year, then going back to piano as though you never stopped practicing,” I took AP Calculus and AP Computer Science Principles in 11th Trujillo says. First, the sequence grade. O’Dowd’s math teachers don’t just explain concepts doesn’t support a true command of like the quotient derivative rule, they support us to develop a growth fundamental math concepts. “It’s how mindset. Through math, I’ve learned that brains and talent are a good students get frustrated with math,” starting point, but it takes hard work and dedication to succeed. Trujillo notes. Second, this sequence Teachers like Mr. Trujillo have given me confidence to meet any usually doesn’t create enough challenge —in an equation or in life. — Diego, 12th Grade time for students to take multiple upper division courses, like Data “By creating this intentional two-year sequence, Science and Multivariable Calculus. “These are the we’re giving students a rock-solid foundation to courses that have a big payoff for students,” Trujillo excel in Pre Calculus, Finite Math, Data Science or explains. “They start solving real world problems, even AP Calculus as juniors,” Trujillo emphasizes. thinking creatively, and strengthening their college From there, there are a range of AP courses they applications.” can take, even Multivariable Calculus. “We are one O’Dowd’s two-year math sequence is focused on of only a few high schools in the nation that teaches students mastering the concepts they need to be this,” Trujillo says. Multivariable Calculus lays successful. “We don’t want students who just know the mathematical foundation for machine learning how to do the mechanics.” Trujillo states. “We want and theoretical computer science. “We need to be them to gain the technical vocabulary, notational preparing students to be drivers and innovators of fluency, the analytical skills, and the conceptual the kinds of systems that Google Maps and Spotify 28 Parents Press |
January 2022
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are built on,” Trujillo insists. “They’re going to keep changing the world.” O’Dowd’s move to modernize the Math Department is already ahead of the curve. Last year, the University of California and the California State Universities made changes to accept courses in data science as equivalent to Algebra II, pointing towards the relevance of data science to analyze and tackle social problems, from climate change to crime. Other elite colleges may follow soon.
“Our Math Department is reading the economic landscape and leading innovation,” declares O’Dowd Board Member and alumna Melinda EisenhutDunn ’74. As the former CFO of Sequoia Capital, a $20B global investment firm, Melinda knows how important it is for education to expose young people to disciplines that connect to our emerging marketplace. “O’Dowd is looking ahead,” she says. “We’re equipping our graduates to become leaders in the next generation of our society.” ✷
Honors Pre-Calculus students work on graphing equations.
Bishop O’Dowd High School is a Catholic college preparatory community that engages students in learning experiences that encompass mind, body and spirit, and emboldens graduates to build a more just, joyful and sustainable world. To learn more about O’Dowd’s award-winning programs, visit www.bishopodowd.org/admissions January 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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ORGANIZING Kids’ School Papers and Art Projects If you have school-age children, you are most likely dealing with an ever-growing stack of school papers and artwork. Some of the papers may go straight to the recycle bin but what do you do with the important papers and special artwork you would like to keep? By Sarah Lyons
Start by Sorting
B
efore you can start organizing your child’s paperwork and art projects you need to decide what to discard and what to keep. “I keep things that reveal his personality,” says Kara Thomas, mom to a ten-year-old son. Set aside papers that show your child’s writing skills and artwork that you feel is unique to your child’s personality. Discard worksheets or daily papers.
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January 2022
Make another stack of papers that have information you need such as calendars, directories, or spelling lists. Try to sort items at least once a week so the paper stack does not get out of control. “Parents may want to feature their child’s artwork by hanging it in frames on the wall. This gives them the opportunity to enjoy it, then change the pictures over time.” says Stephanie Davis, a Certified Professional Organizer.
Start a Keepsake Box
A keepsake box is a space for you to save items that mean something to you or your child. Davis, suggests using a file box. “A keepsake box causes you to constantly purge and evaluate what you really want to keep,” says Davis. Some parents may have a file for each grade level but Stephanie suggests sorting items by type, such as artwork, invitations, pictures, projects, and adventures. This will give the file box a more defined purpose and is easier for the parent to maintain. “The keepsake boxes should be stored where they are easy to get to. If it is stored on a closet shelf, it is less likely to be used than if it is stored somewhere that is easily accessed.”
Create a Family Binder
As a mom of six, our family has our fair share of paperwork. Creating a family binder for important information has helped me stay organized. Each family member has a tab and their sports calendars, school directories, and medical information are stored there. When I need something in a hurry, I know right where to look. “I encourage families to go digital. They can use one family calendar app so everyone knows what is going on and important papers can be scanned and computerized as well.” says Davis. “I try to be flexible and figure out what works for each family.”
Go Digital
Some parents may find it easier to go digital when it comes to storing their child’s artwork and school papers. Joanna Cline, mother of three, says “I use the Artkive app to store my kids’ art. At the end of the year, I will make a photobook of their artwork.” Other apps that help save artwork are DearMuse or Keepy. Many of these apps have family sharing available. The main thing to remember is the items we want to keep will develop and change over time. As you add to your keepsake box, you may find that some items don’t seem as important a few years later and it is okay to discard them to make room for the things that you value now. Parents should never feel guilty about not keeping every single paper, painting, and essay. Realistically it’s only important to keep the items that mean the most. Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and stay at home mom to six children, including 7-year-old triplets. She loves reading, cooking, and spending time outdoors. With six children in three schools, she is very familiar with the need to organize school papers and art projects.
January 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO TEEN
TOURS
By Cheryl Maguire
W Can I go to the East Coast?
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January 2022
hen my soon to be fourteenyear-old daughter asked me this question my initial response was, “There is no way you are going, especially without me.” And then I saw the cost of the trip which only solidified my sentiment. The public school she attends teamed up with a travel tour company to offer a week-long educational trip to the East Coast for students who applied. The trip is not considered a school trip since it will be during April vacation, but teachers will be participating along with the travel guides from the tour company. “Didn’t you go on a similar trip when you were her age?” My husband, the voice of reason, pointed out a fact that I did indeed
travel to the west coast at the age of fourteen, except instead of a week I traveled for three weeks. I went with a private “teen tour” company over the summer. I loved my teen tour experience. It enabled me to see national parks and historical sites that I probably wouldn’t have visited otherwise, which is why I changed my mind and I’m allowing her to go.
WHAT IS A TEEN TOUR? A teen tour is when a group of teens travel with adult leaders to specific locations. These tours are usually private companies but sometimes pair up with public schools. Some tours are also run through religious organizations. The trips can be domestic or international and can be community
“Didn’t you go on a similar trip when you were her age?” service based or educational. The length of time can vary from one week to one month or longer. The group stays at camp grounds or hotels, traveling by a coach bus.
TYPES OF TEEN TOURS PRIVATE: Most of the teen tour companies are privately owned. Like a camp, the company hires staff counselors who will travel and be responsible for the teens during the trip. These tours can be accredited by the Camping Association. When selecting a tour, make sure to research the company through the Better Business Bureau and by asking for recommendations from friends or family. Collaborate with Public/Private School: If your school doesn’t currently offer a travel program, you could ask about partnering with a travel company. RELIGIOUS: Local religious organizations may offer a teen travel experience during the
summer. Sometimes these trips are community service orientated while other times it may be educational. You could check with your local place of worship to find out if they offer a teen tour.
COST The cost of these tours isn’t cheap ranging from $3k-$10k and up. Usually, the cost includes all meals, transportation during the trip (not to the first location), admission, and staff guides. You might be able to receive financial aid or a scholarship through Geography of Hope. You may also be able to travel for free if you are willing to volunteer. There is a tuition free program you can apply to for girls age 15-17 called Inspiring Girls Expeditions.
IS A TEEN TOUR RIGHT FOR YOUR FAMILY? Traveling requires a certain type of personality, usually someone who enjoys adventure and is able
to be patient when necessary. My daughter’s twin brother had zero interest in attending the trip and didn’t even show me the paperwork. His personality is vastly different from his twin, so I can understand why he doesn’t want to go. If you can afford the high cost or qualify for a scholarship, then a teen tour can be a unique learning experience for your child. I visited various places and met people from diverse backgrounds. And even though I will miss her terribly, I’m sure my daughter will have an incredible trip. Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05
“I LOVED MY TEEN TOUR EXPERIENCE. It enabled me to see national parks and historical sites that I PROBABLY WOULDN’T HAVE VISITED OTHERWISE, which is why I changed my mind and I’M ALLOWING HER TO GO.”
January 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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J A N UA RY 1 7 , 2 0 2 2
The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.
Ways to Celebrate Martin Luther King Day with your Kids
T
he Bay Area is a wonderful place to celebrate the impact Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. If you feel like venturing out, plan on being prepared for Covid-109 safety protocols. But many celebrations can be done from home. Check out these nine ways to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King.
Watch or listen to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches. This is an inspiring activity for older kids and teens. The “I Have a Dream” speech is about 17 minutes long; you can listen or watch on YouTube along with some of Dr. King’s other famous speeches. Follow up with a discussion about what Dr. King’s message means to your child and you.
Visit local monuments, parades, exhibitions or attend celebrations created in honor of Dr. King. With many events being held in-person again this year, there are a large selection to choose from.
Read a book or watch a movie about diversity, equity and inclusion. You can honor Dr. King’s legacy by choosing children’s books about anti-racism, social justice and more.
Talk about racial inequality and social justice with your child. Research shows that talking with children about these topics has a lasting positive impact on a child’s development.
Read a children’s book about Dr. King and the Civil Rights Movement. Your local library is a great resource for these.
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January 2022
For younger kids, make a “Peace” craft. Use art and creativity to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy of peace and love. Draw and color peace signs to hang in your window, paint a dove using your child’s hand print, or create a heart garland to drape over the front door.
Plant a tree as a living tribute to MLK. While planting discuss King’s belief that a society grows great when men plant trees in whose shade they know they shall never sit. Progress, like a tree, needs time to take root.
Create your own day of service. Consider the day as a “day on not a day off.” Americorps has been leading the charge for the last quarter century. Take time to visit americorps.com with your child and learn more about how you can create your own event and encourage kids in your community to volunteer and be of service––because serving others has a profound positive benefit on those who volunteer.
Discuss your kids dreams. Talking to your children about their hopes and dreams, both big and small, will be a meaningful catalyst for important family discussions.
NOW OPEN They are the guardians of healthy oceans, inspiring generations of wonder and discovery. Develop a deeper love for sharks and the many roles they play at this new exhibit. See life-size models, rare fossils, and more. Make your reservation at calacademy.org
January 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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