September 2009

September 2009—Published On-line Monthly Shawnee Mission Public Schools East Lancers 51 Years

Lancer Newsletter

Shawnee Mission East High School www.smsd.org/schools/smeast

Development and Implementation of Professional Learning Communities Message from the Principal Over the past 15 years, the explosion of research in education has been prolific. Most of the research has centered on addressing the perceived inadequacies of schools as judged by declining test scores. As a result, many theories on learning and teaching have developed; which in turn brought about changes in either content or content delivery. Unfortunately, many of these programs have been short-lived or proven to have only limited success, depending on the community or school setting.

During this same period of time, a group of researchers approached this concern through a different set of glasses. Instead of focusing on the content knowledge or how to best to teach the content (both of which are still addressed in their program), Robert DuFour and his colleagues looked at developing a process which would ensure a high level of achievement for all students. The “process” termed Professional Learning Communities (PLC) is different than the word “educational program.” There is ample compelling research available to

Key Dates: 8/31 7pm Fall Meet the Coach Night 9/1 11:30am PTA Meeting 9/1 7pm Back to School Night 9/7 No School, Labor Day 9/8 Late Start 9:20am 9/15 Early Dismissal 1:10pm 9/23 9am Parent/Principal Coffee 9/24 Evening Open Conferences 9/25 No School, Conferences

confirm PLC schools meet the goal of raising the level of achievement of all students.

It is important to realize that it is nearly impossible to share all the knowledge about the PLC in a onepage article. However, it is our desire to educate you and our students about the process. In the past, most educators would not even consider including students in the conversation of educational change. This process comes close to making it a requirement.

To start, PLC’s have the following characteristics: Common Mission, Vision, Values, and Goals Collaborative Culture Collective Inquiry Action Orientation Continuous Improvement Focus on Results From these characteristics, PLC’s have nine goals. Each of these goals will appear in every classroom in our building.

1. Mission — Is it evident that learning for all is our core purpose?

2. Collective Vision — Do we know what we are trying to create?

3. Shared Values — How must we behave to advance our vision?

4. Goals — What are our priorities?

How do we know?

5. Communication — How do we share what is important?

6. Clarity — What must students know, think and be able to do?

7. Assessment — Have students learned the essential curriculum?

How do we know?

8. Systematic Interventions: — Do we ensure that all students receive additional time and support for learning when and if it is needed?

9. Focus on Results — Are the results of assessments used to adjust the instruction of individual students?

How? We plan to share this information with our staff and begin talking with our students about this new process. Many might be wondering why a school like SME should get involved in such a process, given our academic success of the past. The answer is really simple – all organizations regardless of mission need to continually improve! We are not planning to discontinue any educational programs currently in place. Obviously, it would be ridiculous to abandon anything which has worked well in this building the past few decades.

One thing we have to keep in mind is that SME is slowly changing, just like all the other high schools in Shawnee Mission and throughout the United States. As these changes occur, new challenges in the area of academics will arise. The Professional Learning Community process provides the means necessary to maintain high levels of achievement for all students over an extended period of time; even during times of challenge and change.

Look for more information about PLC’s and our progress with implementation on the SME website.

Have a great year!

Karl R. Krawitz, Ed.D Principal

Student Drop-Off Routes Student drop-off for school is off of Mission Road. Traffic will be directed toward the new main entrance.

Please do not stop in front of the library doors to drop off your student. Continue toward the new gym and drop off students at that point.

Do not use the 75th street lot to drop off students. The 75th street lot is reserved for bus pick-up/delivery.

When exiting the Mission Road lot, either exit Delmar (via the swimming pool parking lot) or exit back onto Mission Road (south exit). You can only make a right-hand turn when exiting onto Mission Road.

Remember, the 75th Street lot is reserved for bus pick-up/delivery. Throughout our day, there are several busses picking up students and dropping students off.

Juniors and Seniors who drive to school: juniors with parking permits will park in the 75th Street lot as usual.

Seniors with parking permits will park in the Mission Road lot. Seniors, please access this lot from Delmar.

Delmar

No Entrance

Mission Road

No Dr op

Drop Off Here

Of fs

75th Street

To Delmar

SME Newsletter - September 2009

No turns allowed from Mission Road into the main parking lot for school drop off and pick up. Students parking in the lot should enter from Delmar

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New Format for SME Newsletter

All six art teachers hope to keep an experience. You’ll hear from our updated Web Back Pack this year dynamic principal, Mr. Krawitz, at with examples of student art work every session, plus other faculty Beginning with our September ediand assignments, syllabi, announce- members, experienced parents, and tion, the newsletter will only be availments, etc. You can find these on the the students themselves. Please note able electronically. The SME website school website under SM East Web that some of this year’s sessions now has a link for patrons to access Back Pack (then the teacher name). have been moved to the evening so the newsletter quickly. In addition, that more working parents can atThe art department will be participatwe are exploring the option of tend — so do come! ing in a variety of art shows and comemailing the newsletter directly.

Please make sure you have registered petitions throughout the year — look Wednesday, September 16 with Parent@School (via the website) for specific information in the news- 7-8pm Plugging In at East so that the school has access to your letter or on our Web Back Packs. The (check in at East Library — room first is the Hidden Glen Art Show may change) email address.

September 18-19. Five senior stuAcademics, extracurricular, career, Drivers Education dents will be represented. college applications — there are so The Shawnee Mission many choices to be made in high School District, in coopera- NAHS News school, especially at a big school like tion with Johnson County National Art Honor Society is gearEast! An East counselor will tell you ing up for another fun, fantastic year!

Community College how the counseling office can help.

NAHS is a great way for students to (JCCC), will be offering Jim Ricker, head of our Athletics exhibit their own drivers education training to eligible Department and experienced with art work, particiSM high school students beginning other extracurricular activities, will pate in commuwith the fall semester. SM students tell how after-school involvement can nity service acmay qualify for a course scholarship help your student evolve his or her tivities, see guest that will cover the course fees. The identity, gain new experiences, and speakers from the local arts commuclasses will be conducted through have a great time. Special tips will JCCC. These classes will not be of- nity and talk and learn about art and be offered for helping the reluctant, art making. Please direct any quesfered for credit. Two sessions will shy, or overwhelmed student (or parbe offered this fall from September 8 tions to Adam Finkelston at adament) to get involved. through October 15, and October 20 finkelston@smsd.org or click the October (date and time TBD) “NAHS” link on Mr. Finkelston’s through December 8. Classes will A Career for Every Interest Web Back Pack at www.smsd.org/ meet every Tuesday and Thursday (Broadmoor Technical Center, 6701 adamfinkelston. evening from 6:30pm-9:00pm. SM W. 83rd St.) students may contact their school’s Parent-Principal Coffees counselor for more information.

Principal Krawitz believes that high Parent-Principal Coffees help connect school is the best time to help your Visual Arts News you with the leadership of your student explore career options. This school, other parents, and the many The Art Department is proud to ansession will be an overview of excitnounce the First Annual Faculty Art resources offered by Shawnee Mising programs offered by the Shawnee sion East. You’ll pick up practical Show. This show is in the display Mission East network, which prepare cases in and near the art department, tips to help your student succeed, solve problems, and enjoy his or her through the end of September. Be (Continued on page 4) sure to come take a look at what the SME Newsletter Publication Guidelines art teachers create during the summers and on their free time.

• The SME Lancer Newsletter is published monthly (electronically) during the Another new thing this year is the addition of a second SME Art Show (student work) at the end of both the first and second semesters. The dates are December 1-4, and May 4-7, with the receptions on Thursday, December 3, and Thursday, May 6, from 6:00-8:00pm. There will be presentation of awards immediately following each reception.

SME Newsletter - September 2009

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school year except for a combined November/December edition.

Deadline for submissions is the 1st Friday of each month with newsletter distribution occurring on the last Friday of the month.

Submissions in Word are preferable. You may also send articles in other word processing formats or graphically as a pdf or jpeg. Electronic submissions are best, but hard copy material can be placed in the “Newsletter” folder located in the PTA mailbox.

Your submissions may be edited due to space considerations.

Questions? Contact Heather Royce, SME Associate Principal at 993-6600, earoyce@smsd.org; or Joan Beahm, PTA Newsletter Editor at 341-3725, jmbeahm@hotmail.com.

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students for diverse careers ranging from graphic design, culinary arts, law, industrial technology, business, and more. The International Baccalaureate program will also be highlighted. This session will be held at Broadmoor Technical School, the home of budding chefs, some of whom have received full scholarships to top culinary colleges.

Wednesday, November 18 9-10am Creative Expression at SME (Library) Did you know that East’s student newspaper is considered one of the top five in the nation in the last two years? Or that our jazz band has performed by invitation at Lincoln Center in New York? East’s excellence in the arts--theater, jazz, strings, choral music, jewelry design, journalism, painting, and more—will be showcased in this session. Come and be dazzled by exceptional student performances and creations on display!

Wednesday, February 17 7-8pm Getting Kids Back On Track (Library) If your high school student is challenged with grades below par, social difficulties, illness, depression resulting in long absences, or other problems which can crop up in four years of a teenager’s life, take heart — you

can get back on track! An experiLeaving School During enced faculty member and an equally the Day experienced parent know the territory A phone call or written request from and will help your family navigate the parent/guardian for a student to the difficulties and even turn adverleave campus during the school day sity into advantage. should be presented to the attendance Wednesday, April 21 9-10am center before the student misses a Making The Most of High class or leaves campus.

School —- Advice and Ideas Students are not permitted to leave from Senior Parents (Library) school during the day unless they reThis session, traditional at year’s end, ceive permission from and check out will feature parents who are saying through the Attendance Center. Stugoodbye to East, sharing diverse per- dents who need to check out for apspectives on high school: what pointments should use the following worked well, what they would do procedures: differently as parents if they had to do it again, and how strategies vary from Bring a written note from a parone of their kids to the next. ent/guardian to Attendance Procedures the Attendance Center BEParents should contact the school in the morning to report the absence of a FORE school on student. A 24-hour Attendance Hot- the day of the line (993-6645) is available for eve- appointment. A Permit to Leave will be issued by the ning calls as well. We request that parent/guardian(s) make contact with Attendance Center. the Attendance Center within 24 In an emergency, students must come hours so that the student’s absence to the Attendance Center to make may be coded correctly. Students arrangements to leave. will remain unexcused and have NO make up privileges unless the school Students who are ill are required to see the nurse before checking out. has had telephone contact with or a note from the parent/guardian within 24 hours of the student’s return to (Continued on page 5) school.

47th Annual College Clinic

Wednesday, October 146:30 to 9:00pm

Come to the 47th Annual Shawnee Mission College Clinic! Representatives from over 200 colleges across the country will chat and share information with high school students — Freshman through Seniors — and their parents. Admission, parking, and shuttle service is free.

Questions? Contact Donna Fischgrund at www. donnasmcc09@gmail.com.

SME Newsletter - September 2009

Wanted: College Clinic Volunteers Help with mailing in September Help set up the afternoon of October 14 Help with dinner for the college reps before the clinic Greet at school entrances during the clinic Help clean up after the clinic Be available for miscellaneous Be a part of the best college clinic in the region! If you can help, please email Donna Fischgrund at donna smcc09@gmail.com (Continued on page 5)

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A student who leaves campus without PTA. For more information, checking out is UNEXCUSED, recontact havilandb@gmail.com. gardless of the reason for the absence.

College Prep 101: APPLYING TO COLLEGE When the student returns to school during the school day, the student Monday, September 28, 7:00pm, must check in with the Attendance SME library (Ideal for seniors and their families, Center before returning to class. helpful to juniors and others) Prearranged Absences/ Presenters: college admissions representatives, experts, experienced parents Extended Leave The Common Application; college Students who know in advance that applications and supplements; writthey will be absent for one or more ing essays; ACT and SAT test days are required to pick up the apscores; getting recommendations; propriate approval form from the Atsubmitting transcripts; and schedules tendance Center one week prior to and deadlines. absence.

College Prep 102: Student Council PAYING FOR COLLEGE Freshmen are encouraged to get inThursday, November 12, 7:00pm, volved with Student Council. StuSME library dents must attend one information (Ideal for families of seniors/juniors) meeting either on Wednesday, AuPresenters: college admissions repregust 26 or Thursday, August 27 at sentatives, experts, experienced parents 7:15am or 2:45pm in room 307.

Importance of and assistance with Sophomore, junior, and senior class the Free Application for Federal Sturepresentatives will also be elected in dent Aid (FAFSA) and CCS/Profile; and understanding scholarships, early September. grants, and loans

International Club

Welcome to our international exchange students from Europe, Asia, and Latin American! The International Club is open to all East students and meets the first Wednesday each month at 2:50pm in the SME library to hear about the countries our students come from.

Lobster Sale The International Club/AFS Lobster sale will be held on Saturday, October 17 and Saturday, May 8 at the Mission Road circle entrance to SME. Pick up time is from 10:0011:30am. Order forms will be available on line at www.smesports.com by mid-September and mid-April.

For more information please contact Brenda Fishman at 993-6691.

College Prep Presenting Experts and Ideas that Help You and Your Student Apply to College. Sponsored by your SME Newsletter - September 2009

College Prep 103: VOICES OF EXPERIENCE Thursday, January 7, 7:00pm, SME library (Ideal for seniors and their families, helpful to juniors and others) Presenters: current college students, parents of current college students Students hear from recent SME graduates while parents hear from parents of recent SME graduates about their college search experience, successes, and mistakes College Prep 104: GETTING STARTED Thursday, March 4, 7:00pm, SME location tbd (Ideal for juniors and their families) Presenters: college admissions representatives, experts, experienced parents Visiting colleges; ACT and SAT test prep; presenting your special talents (athletics, arts, etc.); counselor support; and schedules and deadlines

Welcome Back and Welcome FRESHMEN. We have a new cool office in the North stairwell, Room 463.

You can catch up on our news on Twitter at SHAREDirector, Facebook at Pat Kaufman (this is SHARE’s Facebook page) or at our website and video at www.smeshare.org.

The SHARE Fair will be early in September (we’re working on the exact date) during seminar. The students will see a video and have a chance to find out about all of SHARE’s projects. The week after the Fair, they can come by the SHARE office to sign up to participate in projects.

Our amazing Renovation Sensation Homes Tour is September 23, with a really fun Patron’s Party the night of September 22. Check our website for details and ticket order information.

The Garage Sale will be in April this year due to construction.

FRESHMEN!!!!!! We have special FRESHMAN ONLY SHARE activities this year. You can help at Pet Connection, handout pumpkins at TLC’s Pumpkin Patch, work with the Environmental Science Club, and on two different weekends help to feed the homeless. For details, please check out www.smeshare.org. — click on Freshman Connection.

Pat Kaufman, SHARE Director 993-6820 East, 677-1839 Home PatKaufman@smsd.org

Renovation Sensation 2009 Introduces the NEW Lancer Cafe

Order a delicious box lunch with your tour ticket purchase for only $12.

Sit down and enjoy your lunch at the Lancer Café located at 3816 W. 65th Street (home of the Nortons).

Or, take it to go. (all box lunches must be pre-ordered) Page 5

Counseling Office News—www.smecounselor.org Career & Technical EXPO

The cost for the Saturday testing is $18.00. The deadline for the Saturday PSAT test is 9:00am on Wednesday, Johnson County Community College (JCCC) will be sponsoring the Career & Technical EXPO Monday, Sep- October 14. A late fee of $5.00 will be added to the cost tember 21, 6-8pm in the Indoor Track (area: GYM Build- of the PSAT testing for Saturday after the 9:00am deadline. ing) JCCC’s Campus, 12345 College Blvd. Over 250 different Career and Technical Preparation Program rep- Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholresentatives have been invited to share information with parents and students. The wide array of new and exciting arship Qualifying Test – PSAT/NMSQT The PSAT/NMSQT measures verbal, math, and writing options for the 21st Century Careers will be displayed skills that students have developed over the course of along with information about job outlook, salary potentheir education. Typically, students take the PSAT in tial, training/education requirements, plus financial aid their junior year of high school. It is also beneficial for information. Many of the programs have the option of expanding into a 4-year degree if the students had interest motivated college-bound sophomores. The PSAT serves in doing so. This is a partial list of programs that will be as a valuable tool to assist students, parents, and schools with early college preparation and planning. represented: Accounting, Biotechnology, Business Office Technology, Computer Information Systems, Draft- The 2009 PSAT/NMSQT is the qualifying test for entry ing, Early Childhood Education, Entrepreneurship, Fash- to National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) comion Design & Merchandising, HVAC, Interactive Media, petitions for the college scholarships that will be awarded Interpreter Training, Marketing and Management, Nurs- in 2011. Students who meet published participation reing, Polysomnography/Sleep Program, and Respiratory quirements, which include taking the PSAT in their junCare. We hope you take the opportunity to attend! ior year, will enter the NMSC competitions for recognition and awards. Information about NMSC programs, College Planning entry requirements, and scholarships to be offered in Mark your calendars for the Senior College Planning 2010 may now be found at www.nationalmerit.org and in Seminars. The SME counselors will be holding two inthe 2009 PSAT/NMSQT Student Bulletin that will be formational meetings for college planning in September, given to all students at SME who register for the exam. one for students and one for parents. On Monday, SepThe 2009 Test Dates are: Wednesday, October 14 for tember 14, seniors will be asked to come to the library 11th graders, and Saturday, October 17 for 10th graders. during their English classes for information about making Students may register in the SME Counseling Office. college selections, completing the application process, Cost for registration is $16.00 for 11th graders and scholarships, and financial aid. The same information $18.00 for 10th graders. Registration information will be will be shared with parents on Wednesday, September 16, from 7:00-8:30pm in the library. Each student will be given through morning announcements and will also be available on the web Back Pack site: www4.smsd.org/ provided with a folder including important information for both parents and students. Parents should bring their SMECounselors. child’s copy of this folder to the evening meeting. See ZAPS/RMASS Educational Seminars are available to you there! assist students attain higher scores on the PSAT and

October 14, 2009 –PSAT and PLAN Testing for Grades 10 and 11 On Wednesday, October 14, we will be testing our 10th and 11th graders. All 9th and 12th graders will not have school. Our 10th graders will have the opportunity to take the ACT PLAN. The cost for this test is $15.00.

This test predicts ACT scores and is also a valuable career tool. We hope that all of our 10th graders will take advantage of this opportunity.

SAT. Students gain valuable insight into the PSAT/SAT through a close examination of each type of question.

The seminar teaches students those strategies necessary for answering specific question types and general test taking tips.” (Educational Seminars)

This opportunity is offered to Shawnee Mission students on Wednesday, September 30 and Thursday, October 1 in the cafeteria. Cost is $75.00 for both sessions. Students may register for one of the following times: Session 1: 3:00-5:30pm on Wednesday and Thursday.

Our 11th graders will have the opportunity to take the PSAT. The cost is $16.00. This is the qualifying test for Session 2: 6:30-9:00pm on Wednesday and Thursday.

Letters with registration information will be mailed to National Merit standing and it provides a prediction of 11th graders. Please contact the SME Counseling Office SAT scores. for more information.

Tenth graders choosing to take the PSAT will test on Saturday, October 17 at Broadmoor Technical Center.

(Continued on page 7) SME Newsletter - September 2009

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2009-2010 Concurrent Enrollment Options Simply stated, concurrent enrollment means a student enrolled in a high level high school class has the option to enroll and pay tuition at Johnson County Community College (JCCC) or Baker University and earn college credit.

September 11, 2009 Last day for 100% refund September 12, 2009 COMPASS (JCCC placement test) deadline, if applicable September 13, 2009 Enrollment/Payment deadline

The list of high school classes offered for concurrent en- September 14, 2009 Last day for 80% refund rollment is on page 65 of the Program Planning Guide.

Last day to withdraw without a "W" on transcript The guide is available on line at SMSD.org. Click on Curriculum under Public Information, and from that page November 16, 2009 click on High School 2009-2010 under planning guides.

Last day to request pass/fail grade Then select considerations for college from the drop Last day to withdraw with a "W" on transcript down box on the left side of the page.

This is a list of College Now dates for Fall 09 –Spring The state schools in Kansas accept JCCC 2010 College Now Courses (year long classes): and Baker Credit earned through concurrent enrollment. Although many colleges September 3, 2009 JCCC Application submission deadline accept college credit earned through conAuthorization form submission deadline (signed by current enrollment, some do not. It is wise to consider your principal) where the student plans to attend college and contact the ACT/SAT test score submission deadline, if applicable admissions office to see if they will accept college credits earned in this manner. The good news is that college September 12, 2009 credit earned in this manner is an economical purchase COMPASS (JCCC placement test) deadline, if appliwhen compared to the cost of attending a four-year cable college.

September 13, 2009 College Now – Johnson County Enrollment/Payment deadline

Community College

With the exception of American Government Honors and Physics 1 Honors all the courses listed on page 65 of the Program Planning Guide are offered for college credit through the College Now Program at Johnson County Community College.

September 28, 2009 Last day for 80% refund October 12, 2009 Last day to withdraw without a "W" on transcript March 1, 2010 Last day to request pass/fail grade Last day to withdraw with a "W" on transcript

All pertinent information about College Now can be ac- June 18, 2010 cessed on line at www.jccc.edu/collegenow. The List of Grades available on web Shawnee Mission East courses can be accessed by selecting College Now Courses – Academic from the column These deadlines cannot be extended. Students are strongly encouraged to begin the process early. Excepon the left. tions to the deadlines will not be granted!

Classroom instructors will talk to their students about The Fine Print the College Now option.

College Now students are considered students of JCCC Enrollment materials are available in the counseling and are afforded the same privileges as on-campus stuoffice. dents — access to the library, tutoring, gymnasium, etc.

This is a list of College Now dates for the Fall SemesCollege Now students are also subject to the Family Eduter (first semester only): cational Rights and Privacy Act. Visit www.jccc.edu and search FERPA for more information on this federallySeptember 3, 2009 JCCC Application submission deadline mandated privacy law.

Authorization form submission deadline (signed by your principal) ACT/SAT test score submission deadline, if applicable (Continued on page 8)

SME Newsletter - September 2009

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JCCC is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; therefore, a majority of our credits will transfer. It is your responsibility to check with the admission or advising office at the institution you wish to attend to ensure transferability of courses.

State statute limits the number of College Now credits a student can earn a maximum of 24.

Quick Step Plus Last year Johnson County Community College began offering College Algebra credit as a concurrent enrollment option for the Shawnee Mission East course College Prep Math.

Information about this concurrent enrollment option can be found on the internet. On the JCCC homepage search for Quick Step Plus to access this information.

The College Prep Math instructors will talk to their students about the Quick Step Plus program.

Concurrent Enrollment through Baker University This is the second year that Shawnee Mission will be offering concurrent enrollment with Baker University.

The two courses that will be offered in this program are American Government Honors and Physics Honors.

Miss Laura Lamb, SME counselor, will talk to the students in these classes and distribute enrollment materials to interested students All enrollment forms and payments for this class will be collected in the counseling office.

Call Miss Lamb with any questions you have about these programs. Her phone number is 993.6633.

SME Newsletter - September 2009

The East Fund – Helping Every Student!

Thanks to the vision of the founders in 2003 and the generosity of many SME families and friends since, The East Fund has granted 40 requests over the last five years, totaling $240,000 to educational programs at SME. The over-riding goal of The East Fund is to identify and provide funding to enhance the educational experience for SME students and teachers, making SME the best it can be. Sub-goals are to: help every student feel connected at SME from the freshman year on increase discretionary funds for teachers -- encouraging innovative programs, the use of technology, and professional development Visit www.TheEastFund.org to find out more about the grants — grants for the sciences, math, drama, photography, industrial arts, special needs programs, band, literature programs, college counseling, freshman programs, leadership programs, and more!

The East Fund Needs Your Support—Now More Than Ever!

Volunteer! Contact Elizabeth Mayfield at emayfield3@gmail.com or 3819531.

Donate! To make a tax deductible donation, mail a check payable to “SMEF – The East Fund,” 7500 Mission Rd, PV, KS 66208 – anytime!* Join in! (Feast for East)! Watch for more info later in the year and plan to attend our annual dinner/auction.

Submit your own! Submit your own grant request or help a teacher to submit one. The website has a simple request form and inquiries may be directed to Joan Beahm at jmbeahm@hotmail.com or 341-3725. * The East Fund relies on donations, depositing contributions into the Shawnee Mission Education Foundation, a 501c(3) tax-exempt organization, so all contributions are fully tax-deductible as allowed by law, while The East Fund maintains control of all donations and disbursements.

Shawnee Mission East Fund Governing Board President: Lucy Tidwell Vice President: Andy Morrison Secretary: Sarah Amrein Treasurer: Bev McKittrick Governing Board: Julie Foster Elizabeth Mayfield Vicki Luby Barb Haviland Tim Pickell Cathy Bennett, SME PTA President Colleen Broadwater, SME Faculty Representative Ex Officio: Karl Krawitz, SME Principal

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Lancer Athletics Don’t Forget www.smesports.com

For any information regarding SM East Athletics, you are encouraged to refer to www.smesports.com. This website, a service provided to you by the AllSports Booster Club, allows you to do the following: Download and reference all athletic schedules Find out when your child’s athletic banquet is and reference other sports -related calendar dates.

Reference and download directions to all athletic away sites.

Reference KSHSAA and district athletic guidelines.

Print off forms such as the athletic packet, KSHSAA Physical form, etc.

Join the All-Sports Booster Club.

Link to other important websites – NCAA Clearninghouse, coaches websites, NAIA website and more.

Reference important information on college athletic recruiting process.

And much, much more. We hope you take advantage of this website. Make it a favorite on your computer!

Lancer Alert

This year the All-Sports Booster Club is offering a called “Lancer Alert” designed to help you obtain late-breaking information regarding Lancer athletics.

Lancer Alert is a free service that communicates athletic related announcements via text messaging on your cell phone. You can sign up for specific sports information – game cancellations, practice cancellations, and venue or time changes. You can sign up for this service on www.smesports.com.

LancerAlert is the mobile text message program that delivers information to the mobile phones of SME students, parents, alumni, faculty, fans & friends.

A LancerAlert can be sent to any textenabled mobile phone, regardless of which wireless carrier you use!

LancerAlert lets everyone stay even more connected by getting timely and valuable information about SME sports. Once again, sign up on www.smesports.com.

SME Newsletter - September 2009

Fall Sports Season is Underway

Jim Ricker, Athletic Director

The fall sports season is underway with students participating in football, boys’ soccer, girls’ volleyball, cross country, girls’ gymnastics, girls’ golf, and girls’ tennis. Your support of Lancer athletics is appreciated. Fall schedules are available on the Lancer Athletic Website at www.smesports.com.

Bowling: Patti Kennedy (eakenned@smsd.org)

Prepare Now for Winter Sports

Now is the time to begin planning for the winter athletic season. Please keep the following in mind as you begin preparations.

Before an athlete can try out or practice, we must have a physical examinaLancer Day Set For Frition on file. If you have already turned in a physical exam for fall sports, you day, October 2 have already met this requirement.

The annual Lancer Day Celebration will be held on Friday, October 2, The exam must have taken place after 2009. The festivities will include a May 1, 2009 and must be signed by 2:00 p.m. parade from SM East north both a physician and the athlete’s paron Mission Road to Lancer Village (the ents. Specific forms (available at SME Village Shopping Center). The parade office or may be downloaded at will be followed by a pep rally at 2:30 www.smesports.com) must be used. p.m. That night the Lancer Day/ This is a KSHSAA requirement.

Homecoming festivities will conclude On a special note, please turn in your at North Stadium when the Lancers physicals to the AD Secretary at any take on Leavenworth at 7:00 p.m. time. It is a good idea to make a copy Don’t miss out on the fun! Never is of the physical before you turn it in. school spirit higher than at the Lancer Day/Homecoming Parade and Pep Activity Tickets Rally. Mark your calendar now.

Athletic activities are financed from athletic gate receipts, activity tickets, Winter Sports Begin and the general operating budget alloNovember 16 cated by the board. All students who Winter Sports are just around the cor- participate in interscholastic athletics ner with practice/tryouts beginning on shall purchase an activity ticket. This Monday, November 16. Sports offered is a district policy. If your student parinclude boys’ basketball, girls’ basket- ticipates in a fall, winter, or spring ball, wrestling, boys’ swimming, and sport, they are required to have an acbowling. Please contact the head tivity ticket. If your student is an athcoaches with any questions. lete and has not purchased an activity ticket, please send them to the bookBoys’ Basketball: Shawn Hair keeper to pay for this. The cost is (eahair@smsd.org) $35.00 and is good for the 2009-2010 Girls’ Basketball: Rick Rhoades school year. Students with an activity (earhoadr@smsd.org) ticket may attend home sporting events Wrestling: Chip Ufford at no charge. (eaufford@smsd.com) Boys’ Swimming: Wiley Wright (wwright@kckcc.edu)

SME "Little Lancer" Cheer Clinic

The Shawnee Mission East "Little Lancer" Cheer Clinic will be held Saturday, October 17 from 1:00-4:00pm in the SME Gym. This clinic is for Kindergarten through 6th grade students! Participants will have the opportunity to cheer with the SME Cheerleaders during the October 23 SME Varsity Football Game at the SM North District Stadium. All participants will learn chants, cheers, and jumps! Registration fees are $35.00 per child.

Each child will receive snacks, a SME Cheer t-shirt and poms! For more information, contact Kelly Chapman, SME Cheer sponsor, at 993-6600 or kellychapman@smsd.org.

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SME PTA SME PTA SME PTA SME PTA SME PTA President’s Message Those of you who know me, know that I love trivia — all kinds. Therefore, in an effort to entertain (maybe only myself), I plan to start each newsletter message with a fun trivia question (or two). I hope you enjoy these tidbits or find a way to gloss over them quickly to get to the news you are seeking.

September Trivia: What and where was the first public high school in the US? The answer can be found at the bottom of this message.

I guess you could say we have had a tricky start to the 2009-2010 school year. With on-going construction, changing parent gathering dates, uncertain entryways to the school building, and a tightening budget situation for all Kansas schools, I’m just happy that SME has a strong leader in Dr. Krawitz and a sturdy faculty and parent body to usher us through these uncertain but exciting times.

Then I think of the difficult things our President and Congress are dealing with (health care reform, a responsible and somewhat unwelcome energy policy, two precarious wars, immigration issues, and “cash for clunkers”) and I try to put it all in perspective. We will work hard at SME to make this a nurturing, stimulating, and inspirational place where our kids can get a first-rate education. And the parking conundrums, changing meeting dates/times, missed photo-ops, and PTA volunteer surprises are really pretty minor in the larger scheme of things.

That is not to say that we are not incredibly grateful for so many parents, teachers, and staff members who have gone the extra mile or two to make SME one of the most successful schools in the country. It is the people (at all levels) who really make the difference in an accomplished education. Thank you to all who have worked so hard during the summer break to make the big things and some of the precious small things successful at SME Thank you Laurie Kirby for again taking on the SME Directory, making the process seamless and successful.

Get Up-to-Date PTA Information Throughout School Year If you would like to be part of the PTA e-mail list that receives timely information about school events, meetings, unique parent opportunities, and unexpected changes, please join PTA and submit your name and e-mail address to Becky Johnston at bjohnston100@yahoo.com

Thank you to Carlene Anderson for directing the tedious preparation of the August SME mailing and thanks to her great group of volunteers for a nearly full day’s work in a very hot and gritty classroom.

Thank you to Libbi Torres for organizing support for the student photos program during fee payment days (I owe you one).

Thank you to Karen Bailey, our PTA Treasurer, for working with me (and my non-math mind) so tirelessly to prepare a trimmed but workable PTA budget.

Thank you Nonie Newman, Molly Mitchell-Danciger, and Becky Johnston for coordinating general volunteer support for Fee Payment Days.

Thank you to new SME parent Connie Loveless for planning a fantastic faculty back to school lunch (much of her planning time while out of town on important family travel).

Thank you to Suzanne Henley for helping to organize a meaningful welcome event for our 2009-2010 Lancer transfer students.

Thank you to Kim Cohen, Joni Cobb, and Shannon Belzer for pulling out all the stops and organizing an incredible Freshman Party that students will be talking about for months.

Thank you to Kimberly Reene for creatively coordinating around the construction to add a little beauty and landscaping to the entryways for the SME building.

Finally thank you to Gayle O’Grady in the front office and last year’s PTA President, Sue Swanson, for putting Thank you Joan Beahm and Heather Royce for making up with all my calls, questions and puzzlements as I prethe transition to an all electronic newsletter run as pared to step into this year’s leadership post (yikes). smoothly as possible.

Thank you Hannah Pence, Loretta Preno, Joan Burnett, Brenda Fishman, and Heather Royce for counseling me incessantly over the last five months on how things really work at SME

Happy school year to all and to all a big YIKES!

Trivia Answer: The first publicly supported secondary school in the US was the Boston Latin School, founded in 1635. The attendance in secondary schools was very little because the curriculum was specialized and hard.

Thank you Jannell Lukens for working throughout the The demand for skilled workers in the middle of the summer without much help or guidance on the Lancer Launch event only to have the entire event cancelled two eighteenth century led Benjamin Franklin to start a new weeks before the big night. (Boy that smarts.)

(Continued on page 11)

SME Newsletter - September 2009

Page 10

kind of secondary school, The American Academy established in Philadelphia in 1751.american high schools eventually replaced Latin grammar schools. Graduation from US high schools grew from 6 % in 1900 to about 85 % in 1996.

PTA Meetings Help Parents Stay in Touch It is quite a chore to stay connected at SM East. But monthly PTA meetings and Parent-Principal Coffees are great vehicles to keep parents plugged into the issues, activities, and opportunities at SME and within the Shawnee Mission School District. Please check out the list of PTA meetings below and the schedule of ParentPrincipal Coffees in this newsletter or look for the combined PTA and school calendar online at www.smsd.org/ schools/smeast.

PTA General Membership Meetings Tues

9/1

11:30am Village Presbyterian Church

Tues

10/6

11:30am Village Presbyterian Church

Tues

12/1

9:00am

SME Library

Tues

2/2

7:30pm

Village Presbyterian Church

Tues

3/2

11:30am Village Presbyterian Church

Tues

4/6

11:30am Village Presbyterian Church

Tues

5/4

10:00am Village Presbyterian Church

Safe Home Pledge SAFE HOME is a Shawnee Mission East program designed to promote awareness and networking among parents. By signing the form, parents pledge to make a conscious effort to ensure that underage drinking and drug use do not take place within their home. Parents who submitted the form prior to June 10, 2009 are denoted as a “Safe Home” in the student directory. Parents submitting forms after June 10 will be listed in the October newsletter. Underage drinking and drug use are serious issues among our teenagers that require the attention and on-going efforts of parents to ensure that students have a safe place to gather. Please consider taking the pledge and doing your part to discourage underage drinking and drug use. Forms can be found in the August and September newsletters and will be made available at all PTA events.

Scrapbooker Wanted The PTA is seeking a scrapbooker or just a general collector of news, highlights and photos to serve as the Historian for the 2009-10 SME school year. This is a great job for someone who wants to help but likes or needs to work alone on their own schedule. Of course, the job would also be ideal for a group of two or three who like working together. This person, duo or trio would collect SME news, and photos for a scrap book or photo album show-casing the special SME events of the year including PTA accomplishments and events, student and teacher honors, and news of SME activities or athletics. The book may be as elaborate or simple as you would like. It does not have to be a masterpiece, just a chronicle of the special events of the year.

If you are interested, please contact Cathy Bennett (831-2757, cathybennett@mindspring.com) easy to put on your schedule and always fun! Our tentative dates this year are October 21, January 20, and April 14.

You must be a PTA member to play, and there is a fee of $15 per person for bridge. Please join us by emailing your name, address, telephone number and partner’s name to Karen Bailey at karenmark@kc.rr.com by October 1. You should know how to play (these are not lessons) but all levels are welcome.

Limited number of tables, so sign up soon!

Your Bridge-Chairs Laura Jones, 262-1877 Karen Bailey, 831-3836

SME PTA Executive Officers

President: Cathy Bennett cathybennett@mindspring.com 831-2757 VP Administration: Becky Johnston bjohnston100@yahoo.com 236-6821 Co-VP Programs: Alison Coulson awcoulson@aol.com 831-4200 Co-VP Programs: Denise Clark denise@clarkstationary.com 648-7849 VP Membership: Nonie Newman nonnewman@kc.rr.com 831-1533 Asst VP Membership: Molly Mitchell Danciger mmitchdanciger@kc.rr.com 403-1860 Recording Secretary: Jane Wetzel jwetzel@kc.rr.com 403-1860 Sincerely, Corresponding Secretary: Mary Lucas Cathy Bennett, PTA President mlucas@kc.rr.com 789-8224 Treasurer: Karen Bailey Calling All Bridge Players Time to sign up with a partner for SM East Bridge. With karenmark@kc.rr.com 831-3836 the new tournament format implemented last year, we play three evenings during the year as a group, so it is SME Newsletter - September 2009

Page 11

Shawnee Mission East Safe Home Pledge* The SAFE HOME PLEDGE is a project of the SME PTA to promote awareness and networking among parents.

By completing this form, you are sharing your desire to provide a safe home and also your willingness to freely discuss any violations or problems with other parents. It is understood that this pledge is made with the best of intentions, realizing that situations do occur without parental knowledge or consent.

Mail to: Becky Johnston, 5446 Belinder, Fairway, KS 66205 or e-mail to: bjohnston100@yahoo.com I will not allow parties or gatherings in my home when I am not there. I will not serve youth nor will I allow youth under the legal drinking age to consume alcohol or use drugs in my home or on my property. I will not allow the use of illegal drugs in my home or on my property.

Name(s)____________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________Zip___________ Phone ________________________________ Student(s) name and grade(s) for 09-10 school year ___________________________________________________________________________________ If you submitted a Pledge last year (08-09 school year), it is NOT necessary to submit a new pledge this year.

PTA Citizenship Program and Contest Deadline: October 23

2. Each entry must be the original work of one student only. An adult may not alter the creative integrity of a student’s work. Because the proNinth graders should plan to enter the gram is designed to encourage stu2009 PTA Citizenship Contest this dent creativity, help from an adult or year and submit an essay or poem collaboration with other students is based on the following theme "The not allowed. historic inauguration on January 20, 2009 means to me…." Students 3. Plagiarized entries will be disqualiwill be recognized and honored at the fied and returned to the students. Plaschool (SME) level with award win- giarism is defined as taking and using ners moving on for competition at the another person’s ideas, writings, or inventions as one’s own. district, state, and national levels.

The following criteria have been set 4. All participants are required to fill by the national PTA for this year’s out in its entirety and sign the Student contest. The official contest applica- Participation form. Students who tion can be found as an attachment in have not completely filled out the this newsletter. Questions and entries entry form will not be eligible to parmay be submitted to Ellen Murphy ticipate in the program. In situations (831-2502 or untermans@aol.com). where the child cannot fill out the entry form or write legibly, a parent Students must adhere to the general participation rules as well as the fol- may sign his or her child’s name.

6. Submit entries on any kind of paper, not to exceed 8 ½ x 11 inches in size. Entries that are multiple pages must be submitted on one side of paper only. Write the student’s name on the back of each page in case pages become separated. Students may have their entry typed by another person as long as the original work or a copy of the original work is attached.

7. Students who are physically challenged may dictate to another person who may type or write down the original work. Transcribers should make every attempt to retain the same level of language and accuracy that is reflected in the student’s original work.

8. Students for whom English is not their first language may submit entries in their own language. An interpretative translation must accompany the entry. Translators should make lowing Poetry and Essay Rules.

5. Poetry entries must be at least 50 every attempt to retain the same level words but may not exceed 500 words.

The entry must relate to the current of language and accuracy that is reCitizenship Program theme. Whether Essay entries must be at least 200 flected in the student’s original work. an entry uses a variety of techniques words but may not exceed 1000 words. Entries may be handwritten or or a simple approach, it will be typed, either on a typewriter or with a judged primarily on how well the computer. Number all pages. Entries student portrays the theme. A well developed concept is more important are to reflect grade-appropriate grammar, punctuation, and spelling. than technique.

SME Newsletter - September 2009

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Booster Clubs and Organizations Lancer Blue-Out Football Game — September 10

game winning streak. A member of the Missouri Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame, Coach Sherman left the Missouri high school coaching ranks with the second The Lancer Gridiron Club has been busy this summer highest winning percentage among head coaches with at planning lots of fun activities to support the SME football least 200 games of coaching experience. program. The kick-off event of the season will be Blue Out Night during our first home game on Thursday, Sep- Coach Sherman will teach weights as a member of the East physical education department. Sherman not only tember 10. It will be an exciting event for all students, expects to support Lancer football passionately, he plans parents, and supporters as we wear our BLUE-OUT Tto attend as many other sporting events as he can, as well shirts, designed by Coach Jason Filbeck and featuring as concerts, plays and other school events.

Head Coach Sherman as “The Shermanator.” It is also SME Staff appreciation that evening as we honor and Coach Sherman and his wife, Angela, celebrated their celebrate the awesome teachers at SME! Come support 30th wedding anniversary in June. Angela teaches Social the team and help cheer on a victory over Lawrence Free- Studies at Platte City High School. They have two daughState at North Stadium at 7pm. Team posters will be dis- ters – Katie and Jessica – and two sons – Keith and Zach, tributed prior to the game and tailgating will begin at who both played for their dad at Platte City. The 6:00pm. A complete meal can be purchased for $6 from Sherman family welcomed the addition of grandson, Two Guys and a Grill. Have a hamburger, hotdog, or Landon, last April. Please join us in welcoming Coach grilled chicken sandwich and catch up with friends!

Sherman to Shawnee Mission East.

BLUE-OUT shirts are still available. They were sold during pre-registration and will also be sold to the student body the week of September 7 at school for $8. Parents can purchase them early by contacting Melissa Anthony at mvanthony@sbcglobal.net or wait until game night and buy them for $10 at the gate.

For more information about the SM East football program, visit www.lancergridironclub.com.

Theatre News

Join us September 1 at 6:00pm (right before Back to School Night) in the Little Theatre for our first Theatre Boosters meeting of the 2009-2010 school year. If your September 10 is also Youth Sports Night for all youth football players and coaches!!! Youth players and their student is enrolled in theatre classes or just interested in coaches from the FCCJC football league will be honored becoming involved in the theatre opportunities at SME, as they cross the field in support of “The Start of Some- don’t miss this chance to find out how Theatre Boosters thing Great” for Lancer Football, the theme for this year. helps support this great program, both in the classroom and out!

It is going to be an exciting year for Lancer football and Plans are being made for a Theatre Picnic on Saturday, we encourage everyone to be a part of it. We have exSeptember 12. Please check our new Theatre Boosters panded our spirit wear merchandise and invite you to website — www.smetheatreboosters.org — for details! take a look at what we have available by visiting our website at www.lancergridironclub.com or contact Kari Throughout the year, you will also be able to refer to our website for performance details, forms, and other imporMiller at kmiller67@kc.rr.com. tant information.

East Welcomes New Head Football Coach The Theatre Department fall production will be The Shawnee Mission East welcomes the “start of something great” with Grapes of Wrath, a drama. Auditions will be held Septhe arrival of new Lancer head foot- tember 21, 22, and 23. Students should check the callboard outside the Little Theatre to confirm audition ball coach Chip Sherman. Coach times.

Sherman returns to the area after spending last year at Salina South Mark your calendars for the second Boosters meeting – where he guided the Cougars to an September 29 at 7:00pm in the Little Theatre. At this 8-3 record and a spot in the 2008 Kansas high school meeting, you’ll learn details concerning the SME fall football playoffs after the team went just 2-7 in 2007. production, The Grapes of Wrath, hear from teachers about classroom activities, get your questions answered, Before Sherman’s solo season in Salina, he spent 20 years as the head coach of the Platte City Pirates, amass- and have the opportunity to volunteer. ing a 191-37 (.837) record and capturing 10 league and .

12 district championships. From 2000-2002, Sherman led Platte City to three Missouri Class 3 state titles and a 52SME Newsletter - September 2009

(Continued on page 14)

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menting what the District pays for with an accompanist, sheet music, choir robes, and various activities surrounding the music programs, we also help the kids with fundraising for their trips. Last year, the Choraliers We’re looking forward to a fantastic went to Nashville, TN and sang with year in our newly renovated facilities.

Sheryl Crow. In the spring of 2010, If you have any questions, or would they will travel to Europe and sing in like to join the Theatre Boosters, the cities of Mozart and Beethoven: please contact the Theatre Booster Vienna, Salzburg, and Prague.

Presidents; Bonnie Blythe Dee at ddee@kc.rr.com or Pat Latshaw at Choirboosters needs your time, talent and support. Please join us for platshaw@kc.rr.com, this exciting year ahead at our first Choir Boosters meeting on August 27 at 7pm in the Welcome SME Choir families to the new Choir Room. You will have an 2009-10 school year ! Our kids have opportunity to hear from Mr. Foley a remarkable opportunity within the and the officers, as well as join our Choral program to experience great membership for the year. music and camaraderie under a gifted 2009-2010 Choirboosters leader, Ken Foley. We have a very busy year planned, so please be sure Executive Board to check in this newsletter for upcom- Ken Foley, Director Alison Coulson, President ing events, as well as the website: Shelle Jensen, President Elect www.smechoirbooster.com.

Kathy Joyce, Recording Secretary SME Choir Boosters works to supJanet Stevenson, Treasurer port the music program in many Mary McCarthy, VP Comm. ways. In addition to supporting the Carol Are, VP Membership needs of the program through supple- Stacie Parelman, Fundraising Frequent Friday productions will be presented September 11 by director Kat Jaeger and September 18 by director Sarah Evans at 3:00pm in the Little Theatre.

Paula Raible, Fundraising Joyce Moss, Webmaster

Two performance dates coming up: October 7 is the Fall Concert and November 3 is the East Area Choral Festival where the Choraliers and feeder school choirs will sing; 7:00pm, in the SME Gym.

Journalism Booster Club Formed The Journalism booster club, called the J-Boosters, supports the Journalism Program and it’s award-winning publications: The Harbinger and the Hauberk. For more information, contact Barbara Nichols, 341-3285 or jcbe@sbcglobal.net.

Be sure to subscribe to The Harbinger Newspaper. A one-year subscription (16 issues) is only $36.00. This is a great way to support one of the best high school newspapers in the country while staying current with SME News. An order form is included in this newsletter

9TH GRADE PARENT NIGHT TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 7:00PM SME AUDITORIUM

Let us help you help your 9th grader!

SME Newsletter - September 2009

Page 15

SHAWNEE MISSION EAST PTA VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES FOR 2009-2010 (Please print clearly)

Name _______________________________________________________________Phone # __________________________ Address __________________________________________Zip ___________E-mail _________________________________ Please print carefully

Student’s Name __________________________________________________________ Student’s Incoming grade _________ Return to SME PTA Mailbox or Mail to: Becky Johnston, 5446 Belinder Rd., Fairway, KS 66205 bjohnston100@yahoo.com Check as many as you want.

Academic Recognition—January/June: Help with Honor Roll certificates.

After Graduation—Winter/Spring: Organize a drug-free, alcohol-free party for seniors only, immediately after graduation.

After Prom—Winter/Spring: Organize drug-free, alcohol-free party immediately after the Prom.

(Note: After Grad and After Prom often coordinate to streamline efforts.)

Bridge—All Year: Play bridge once a month with other PTA members.

Carnation Sale—January/February: Help with the Valentine’s Day sale that supports the LOVE Fund, which assists families/students in need.

Citizenship/Student Elections—All Year: Staff school elections. Inform students about voter registration by mailing 18th birthday cards to them (Committee size limited to 30 volunteers.)

College Clinic—Summer/Fall: Help with the October evening event where the entire community is invited to hear over 200 college representatives discuss their schools.

College Clinic Dinner—Summer/Fall: Plan and serve dinner to college representatives before the College Clinic.

College Connection—Fall, Winter, Early Spring: Promote and hold seminars for parents and students, providing information on college selection process (supplements information provided by SME college counselors).

Freshman Lancer Event—Fall: Plan and staff one after-game party for freshmen.

Historian—All Year: Collect news articles. Collect/take photographs at events. Prepare scrapbook.

Hospitality/Faculty-Staff Appreciation—All Year: Provide hospitality for faculty luncheons, treats in teachers’ lounge to coincide with special events during year.

Hostess for PTA Meetings—All Year: Arrange for food, drink, and set-up for monthly general meetings.

Instructional Grants—All Year: Evaluate staff’s grant requests and administer funding. (Committee limited to 8 volunteers.)

Legislative Liaison—All Year: Attend local workshop in the fall, attend a one-day workshop in Topeka in February and report about relevant legislation.

Landscape Beautification—All Year: Work with administration to improve SME grounds. Requires desire/interest to garden.

Lancer Launch Parent Orientation—Summer: Organize the dinner and parent information session for Lancer Launch.

Library—All Year: Circulation desk volunteers needed 7:00-7:40am or 2:40-3:30pm Clerical assistance needed to work 2-3 hour shifts.

Mailing Committee—All Year: Work on preparing occasional school mailings.

Membership—Fall: Assist VP/Membership to collect dues at Back to School Night & other events Newsletter—All Year: Work with administration to produce monthly school newsletter (proofreading) New/Transfer Students—All Year: Organize welcome dinner for new, non-freshman students and families and other activities as needed. Prepare packets for new families entering SM East during the school year.

Parents As Resources—All Year: Organize meetings to facilitate parental networking on pertinent topics, e.g., curfews, teens and the law, alcohol and drugs, internet, etc.

Parent/Principal Coffees: Organize programs about relevant school topics.

President’s Volunteer Service Award—All Year: Promote, record, report students earning 100+ hrs of community service.

Publicity—All Year: Work with all committees and local newspapers to publicize PTA and School events.

Reflections/Citizenship Contests—Fall: Coordinate PTA Reflections and Citizenship Contest for original works in music, art, prose, and poetry. Awards will be given.

Senior Breakfast—Spring: Work with administration to host Senior Breakfast in May. SHARE Volunteers—All Year: Work with SHARE Director and other SHARE parents to help with administration and support of many SHARE fundraising and student volunteer projects.

Student Directory —June: Be involved in the production of the student directory. Must have knowledge of Publisher and Excel. Will work with the district, school, and PTA for contents.

Student Pictures—August: Organize student photo I.D. cards and help with yearbook pictures.

Visual Arts—All Year: Support the Arts program & the Student Art Club, and help with the Spring Fine Arts Showcase.

Volunteer—All Year: Agree to be called for specific needs and/or projects on an as needed basis.

Website Maintenance—All Year: Maintain the SME PTA website, provide updates as needed.

Thank you for volunteering your time, talent, & resources to aid our teachers, staff and students at SME!

Community Programs Website Maintenance

Teaching Grants and Aids

SME PTA Membership Form 2009-2010 Parent Names_________________________________________________________ E-Mail Address_______________________________________________________ Home Address________________________________________________________ City______________________________________

Zip______________________

Home Telephone______________________________________________________

□ □

Parent

□

Teacher/Staff

Family Membership - $28.00

□

□

Other

Single Member - $14.00

Student Name________________________________________

Grade_________

Student Name________________________________________

Grade_________

Student Name________________________________________

Grade_________

We would like to make an additional donation of $____________

Thank you for joining the world’s largest and most powerful Student Advocacy Group!

Please make checks payable to SME-PTA and return to the PTA mailbox or send to: Nonie Newman, VP/Membership, 3815 W. 63rd St., SMKS 66208 If you have any questions, email her at nonnewman@kc.rr.com

College Clinics Teacher Appreciation Senior Breakfast

College Connection Lancer Launch Presidential Service Awards Visual Arts Show

Supports S.H.A.R.E. Keeps You Informed

What does your PTA do??

Attention Ladies! Don’t forget to order your

BOUTONNIERE For

HOMECOMING! Rose color (circle one):

Red Hot Pink White

Name:__________________________________ Grade__________________ Address:________________________________________________________ Closest cross street(s)______________________________________________ Cell number:__________________ Home Number:_____________________ Note: The drill team may need to leave the boutonnière by your front door if nobody is home at time of delivery. I understand this policy! Initials_________ Please contact Mrs. Welter with any questions: 461-6198 Mail your registration form to: Sara Welter 4007West 67th Terrace Prairie Village, KS 66208