Back to School 2011

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What’s cool for back to school? Mobile tech BY LEANNE ITALIE ASSOCIATED PRESS

NEW YORK — What’s on top of the school supply list this year? It isn’t T-shirts and tennis shoes. It’s the other T, for mobile tech. Kids as young as elementary age are looking for smartphone upgrades, while the college set is sussing out the explosion in tablets, said Craig Johnson, president of the retail consulting and research firm Customer Growth Partners in New Canaan, Conn. “The single most important thing is the acceleration of technology for back to school. Kids don’t get excited about a new lunch box these days, or a new backpack. Cool means technology,” he said. That means e-readers with high functionality like highlighting, underlining, pagination and touchscreens. “All of the features are out now or in the process of coming out,” he said. The new Nook has a six-inch touchscreen and crisp, clear print for reading in bright light, tech analyst Andrea Smith told reporters at a recent Consumer Electronics Association trade show. It also indicates

how many pages to the end of a chapter and new one Smith and Morris like from Logihas received praise for long battery life. tech with a case that easily turns into a tabBack-to-school tech also means tablets. let stand. Toshiba has a keyboard, too, also Once hallowed Apple ground, iPad 2 competitors are everywhere this season. Apple’s still the big kid but Android technology is in pursuit. Some of the new tablets run Adobe Flash software, which Apple doesn’t have. In addition to the iPad 2, Smith suggests the 10-inch Toshiba Thrive for back to school. It runs on Android, has two USB ports and an SD card reader. The new — Craig Johnson, president, Customer Growth TouchPad by Hewlett-Packard, she Partners said, runs on webOS, has a 9.7-inch screen and touts easy multitasking among open apps. For analyst Natali Morris, iPad 2 “really is the only tablet on the market sold separately. that kids are coveting,” though she added Morris’ picks for student laptops: Macthat some Android technology is good for Book Air with an 11- or 14-inch screen. They note-taking and syncing. weigh as little as 2.3 pounds and boot up in Tablets are cool, but are they practical for about five seconds, she said at the CEA line actual schoolwork? That might have everything to do with the popularity of bluetoothPlease see COOL, Page 3 enabled keyboard add-ons, including the

“Kids don’t get excited about a new lunch box these days, or a new backpack. Cool means technology.”

Thinking outside the usual (lunch) box sandwiches

(AP) Lunch box sandwiches don’t have to default to ham and cheese or peanut butter and jelly. There are plenty of options to mix things up and keep them interesting. Ditching the sliced bread is a good place to start. Consider making sandwiches on a piece of baguette (or multiple smaller sandwiches on thin baguette slices). Or if crusty bread isn’t your kid’s thing, try folding or rolling the fillings in a piece of lavash or naan flatbread. Also get creative with fillings. Sliced meats can be combined with yogurt or cream cheese spreads, and cucumber sandwiches can be made more nutritious and filling by adding hummus. CUCUMBER HUMMUS SANDWICH Start to finish: 10 minutes Servings: 1 3 tablespoons hummus 1 piece naan flatbread T2

1 tablespoon honey 1/2 small cucumber, sliced Salt and ground black pepper Spread the hummus over half of the naan. Drizzle the honey over the other half of the naan. Arrange the cucumber slices over the hummus, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Fold the naan in half to form a sandwich. Nutrition information per serving (values are rounded to the nearest whole number): 360 calories; 80 calories from fat (21 percent of total calories); 9 g fat (2 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 0 mg cholesterol; 60 g carbohydrate; 11 g protein; 7 g fiber; 510 mg sodium. HAM PINWHEELS Start to finish: 10 minutes Servings: 1 3 tablespoons vegetable cream cheese spread Please see SANDWICHES, Page 4

Sunday, August 7, 2011 The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA

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AP PHOTO/STAPLES

This product image courtesy of Staples shows the Quiksilver SurfDrive USB Flash Drive. Flash drives are available in different shapes, from animals to surfboards and skateboards.

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Registered Representative Bus: 804-526-4412

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shows in June. Those features are good for students moving from class to class. Going head to head with MacBook Air for PC-prone students is the sleek new Samsung Series 9, Morris said. It’s light, boots Windows in 20 seconds and offers 160-degree viewing for group work. Christine Mallon, vice president of retail marketing for Staples, agrees that mobile tech is leading the back-to-school drive and creeping onto supply lists for ever-younger kids. “One of the biggest trends that we’ve seen is that technology is becoming a school supply,” she said. “Kids need laptops, they need flash drives. We’re seeing it in a very big way this year.” Flash drives shaped like animals — safari to farm — have taken off, she said. Also look for Tony Hawkbranded skateboard drives this year. More cool from the supply list: STUFF THAT WRITES: Pilot’s B2P pens (for bottle to pen) are made from recycled plastic bottles and designed to look like one.

They’re lightweight with gel ink. “The quality of recycled products has gotten so much better this year,” Mallon said. Animal print pens and erasers are everywhere, including Staples. Post-it has been putting flags for tagging into the tops of pens and highlighters for a while now. There’s a highlighter-pen combo in a three-pack with room for 50 color-coordinated flags on a shirt clip. Sharpie has gone gel for highlighters for a wider variety of paper, including ink jet, glossy and extrathin surfaces. Twist the bottom to push up the gel. Crayola has a box of dryerase crayons that come with an eraser mitt. STUFF THAT STICKS: Kids still care about going green, especially when it comes to paper products. Environmentally-friendly sticky paper has come into its own. Sustainable Earth by Staples comes in 3-by-3-inch sticky notes that are 50 percent sugarcane fiber and 50 percent recycled paper. Postit Greener Notes are made with 100 percent recycled materials and a plant-based adhesive. “A certain amount of excitement has gone out of

that because green has become almost a cliche,” Johnson said. “It’s still a big thing, though, and strikes a chord with a lot of kids.” For student or mom, weekly peel-and-stick calendar sheets from Post-it come in a handy 7-by-8-inch size, 25 to a pack. Easy to plaster on the fridge or a notebook. STUFF FOR PAPERS: Eco-friendly notebooks, composition books and binders abound, if that’s your kid’s thing. In the simple reuse category, Pottery Barn Teen sells full-zip, water-resistant fabric homework holders in a variety of tween-girl patterns, from peace signs to zebra stripes. There’s a three-ring binder inside and a front zip flap for quick access. Includes an insert for pencils and pens. Avery’s Style Edge plastic dividers offer a groovy rainbow of translucent bubble tabs. Look for rhinestone-studded scissors, staplers, pens and calculators, along with glitter binders in four colors, at Staples. Any true re-inventions on the horizon? Watch for Azuna 3D technology on notebook covers, Mallon said. They’re available only at Staples. “It’s literally 3D,” she said. “It’s very, very cool.”

AP PHOTO/POST-IT

ABOVE: This product image courtesy of Post-it shows their Super Sticky Personal Calendar. For student or mom, weekly peel-and-stick calendar sheets from Post-it come in a handy 7-by-8 inch size, 25 to a pack. Easy to plaster on the fridge or a notebook. RIGHT: This product image courtesy of Staples shows an Azuna notebook by Carolina Pad. These notebooks boast 3D images on their covers in a variety of patterns. AP PHOTO/STAPLES

AP PHOTO/SHARPIE

ABOVE: This product image courtesy of Sharpie shows the Sharpie Gel Highlighter. Sharpie has gone gel for highlighters for a wider variety of paper, including ink jet, glossy and extra-thin surfaces. RIGHT: This product image courtesy of Staples shows some of their Glitter Better Binders in a variety of colors. Rhinestone-handled scissors, studded staplers and glitter binders are also available at Staples this school year.

AP PHOTO/STAPLES

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SANDWICHES Continued from Page 2

1 rectangular lavash flatbread 3 slices deli ham 1/4 cup sliced roasted red peppers Spread the cream cheese over the lavash. Arrange the ham over the cream cheese, leaving 1 inch of cream cheese exposed on each end. Arrange the roasted red peppers across 1 end. Starting with the end that has the roasted red peppers, roll up the lavash. Use the cream cheese at the other end to hold the roll up together. Trim the ends and slice the roll up into 1inch-thick slices to form pinwheels. Nutrition information per serving (values are rounded to the nearest whole number): 470 calories; 190 calories from fat (40 percent of total calories); 21 g fat (11 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 85 mg cholesterol; 48 g carbohydrate; 23 g protein; 3 g fiber; 1,420 mg sodium.

CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI ALFREDO SLIDERS Start to finish: 10 minutes Servings: 1 1/2 cup cooked broccoli, chopped 1/4 cup jarred Alfredo sauce 6 small baguette slices 1/2 cup cooked chicken meat (such as from a rotisserie chicken) 3 slices mozzarella cheese In a small bowl, mix together the broccoli and Alfredo sauce. Arrange the chicken over 3 of the baguette slices. Top with the broccoli Alfredo mixture. Top with a piece of cheese, cut to fit, and the remaining bread. Nutrition information per serving (values are rounded to the nearest whole number): 550 calories; 120 calories from fat (22 percent of total calories); 13 g fat (4 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 50 mg cholesterol; 73 g carbohydrate; 34 g protein; 6 g fiber; 1,710 mg sodium.

AP PHOTO/MATTHEW MEAD AP PHOTO/MATTHEW MEAD

This July 11 photo shows ham pinwheels in Concord, N.H. There are plenty of options for mak- This July 11 photo shows a cucumber hummus sandwich ing lunch box sandwiches interesting. Ditching in Concord, N.H. Lunch box sandwiches don’t have to default to ham and cheese or peanut butter and jelly. the sliced bread is a good place to start.

DinwiddieCount yPublicSchools

R E G ISTE R YO U R C H IL D B E FO R E TH E FIR ST D AY O F SC H O O L D inw iddie C ou nty Pu blic Schoolsw illno long erreg isterstu dents on the firstday ofschool. Parentsw ho have notreg istered their child/children before the opening ofschoolw illbe able to pick u p a reg istration pack et. A tthistim e an appointm entw illbe schedu led to com plete the form alreg istration process. Parentsare encou rag ed to reg isterstu dentspriorto the opening ofschool.

MEET THE TEACHER ELEMENTARY MEET THE TEACHER DAY will be held at all Elementary Schools on Thursday, September 2, 2010 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. MIDDLE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE will be held on Wednesday, September 1, 2010 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Fees may be paid during Open House. Student fees are $10.00. Gym Suit fee is $12.00.

Elementary Schools

K-5

(804) 469-4580

Mrs. Patricia Moody

K-5

(804) 265-4205

Mrs. Kathy Burgess

K-5

(804) 732-4168

Mrs. Becky Baskerville

Southside Elementary School 10305 Boydton Plank Rd., Dinwiddie, VA 23841 Sunnyside Elementary School P.O. Box 250/10203 Melvin B. Alsbrooks Avenue, McKenney, VA 23872

K-5

(804) 469-4480

Mrs. Roberta Brown

K-5

(804) 478-2313

Mrs. Wanda Snodgrass

Secondary Schools

P.O. Box 660/11608 Courthouse Rd., Dinwiddie, VA 23841

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Dinwiddie Co. Senior High School P.O. Box 299/11501 Boisseau Road, Dinwiddie, VA 23841

Grades Phone Number

Principal

6-7

(804) 469-4380

Mrs. Trenia Harris

8-9

(804) 469-5430

Mr. Alfred Cappellanti

10-12

(804) 469-4280

Mr. Randall Johnson

“Making the Difference” • Dinwiddie County Public Schools • “Our Children, Our Pride”

Sunday, August 7, 2011 The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA

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Principal

Dinwiddie Elementary School 13811 Boydton Plank Rd., Dinwiddie, VA 23841 Midway Elementary School 5511 Midway Rd., Church Rd. VA 23833 Sutherland Elementary School 6000 R.B. Pamplin Drive, Sutherland, VA 23885

Dinwiddie Co. Middle School JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE will be held on Wednesday, P.O. Box 340/12318 Boydton Plank Rd., Dinwiddie, VA 23841 September 1, 2010 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Fees may be paid during Open House. Student fees are $15.00. Gym Suit is fee $13.00. Dinwiddie Co. Junior High School

HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE will be held on Thursday, September 2, 2010 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Fees may be paid during Open House in the school cafeteria. Student fees are $15.00. Gym Suit fee is $13.00 or $6.50 per piece. Parking fee is $20.00.

Grades Phone Number

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PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS WELCOME BACK! SCHOOLS OPEN SEPTEMBER 6, 2011! The 2011-12 school year will begin with Back-to-School Orientations the week of August 29 - Sept. 2, 2010. Prince George County Public Schools is anticipating 6,349 students to enroll in grades PreK-12. District personnel have been busy this summer cleaning and upgrading facilities and grounds in anticipation of another school year. Also, the district has made some instructional changes in staffing the schools. Hopefully, you and your child have enjoyed various summer activities and are ready to join forces in another successful school year. Access http://www.pgs.k12.va.us/ for specific information on Back-to-School Orientations and district and school news. Thank you for choosing Prince George County Public Schools where all schools are accredited! MISSION STATEMENT The mission of the Prince George County Public Schools, in partnership with the community, is to provide a quality educational program in a safe environment, to assist each student in reaching his/her potential, and to prepare students to be responsible, productive citizens in a diverse and ever-changing society.

Bobby R. Browder Superintendent

Orientation Schedule 2011-2012

Beazley Elementary School-6700 Courthouse Road, Prince George, VA 23875, Tel: 733-2745 September 1, 2011 Kindergarten 9:00 a.m. Grades 1-5 10:30 a.m. OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES Harrison Elementary School-12900 East Quaker Road, Disputanta, VA 23842, Tel: 991-2242 We provide quality education in a safe September 1, 2011 Kindergarten 9:00 a.m. environment. We are committed to Grades 1-2 10:30 a.m. understanding and meeting the needs of our school community. We trust and North Elementary School-11106 Old Stage Road, Prince George, VA 23875, Tel: 458-8922 respect each individual so that all may Kindergarten 9:00 a.m. experience pride and joy in their work. We September 1, 2011 are committed to continuous improvement. Grades 1-5 11:00 a.m. South Elementary School-13400 Prince George Drive, Disputanta, VA 28342, Tel: 733-2755 SCHOOL BOARD OFFICE September 1, 2011 Kindergarten 9:00 a.m. Telephone: 733-2700 Grades 1-5 11:00 a.m. New Students PO Box 4006410 Courts Drive Prince George, Virginia 23875 Grades 1-5 11:30 a.m. Returning Students Website: pgs.k12.va.us Walton Elementary School-4101 Courthouse Road, Prince George, VA 23875, Tel: 733-2750 September 1, 2011 Kindergarten - 2 9:00 a.m. SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS Grades 3 -5 10:30 a.m. District 1 Roger E. Franklin, Jr., Chair Moore Middle School-11455 Prince George Drive, Disputanta, VA 23842, Tel: 733-2740 Robert E. Cox, Jr. August 31, 2011 Grade 6 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Grade 7 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. District 2 Clements Junior High School-7800 Laurel Spring Road, Prince George, VA 23875, Tel: 733-2730 Lewis E. Stevenson, Vice Chair Patrick J. Bingham August 18, 2011 Former PGPALS Transition Orientation 1:00 pm Kevin S. Foster August 25, 2011 New Summer Registrants Orientation 1:00 pm Central Office Dr. Bobby Browder Superintendent Shelly Bazemore Assistant Superintendent Renèe Williams Assistant Superintendent Sandra Belshan Director of Food Services John Brockwell Director of Technology James Brown Director of Special Education Betsy Drewry Director of Finance Larry Eminhizer Director of Secondary Education Becky Kirk Assistant to the Superintendent Brenda Gore Director of Elementary Education Ron Rhodes Director of Transportation Sheila Roalf Director of Gifted & Title I

Prince George High School-7800 Laurel Spring Road, Prince George, VA 23875, Tel: 733-2720 August 30, 2011 New Student Orientation 7:00 p.m.

2011 - 2012 School Calendar September 6 October 5 November 2 November 10 November 10 November 23 & 25 December 14 December 19 - 30 January 16 January 24-27 February 3 February 20 February 29 March 30 April 5 April 9-13 May 11 May 28 June 9 June 12-15 June 15 June 20

First Day for Students Interim Report to Parents No School for Students No School for Students Report Cards to Parents Fall Break Interim Reports to Parents Christmas Break Martin Luther King Day Student Early Release Report Cards to Parents Student Early Release Interim Reports to Parents Student Early Release Report Cards to Parents Easter Break Interim Report to Parents Memorial Day Senior Graduation Student Early Release Last Day for Students Report Cards to Parents

Hours for early release days January 24-26, February 20, March 30, June 12-14 Secondary: 11:45 am Elementary: 12:45 pm January 27

Prince George Education Center-11033 Prince George Drive, Disputanta, VA 23842, Tel: 733-2748 Secondary: 10:00 am August 8-19, 2011 Small group meetings by appointment Elementary: 12:45

June 15 Secondary: 10 am Elementary: 11 am

Grades

Classroom Hours

Office Hours

Phone

Address

L.L. Beazley Elementary

K-5

9:00-3:30

8:00-4:00

733-2745

6700 Courthouse Rd., Prince George, VA 23875

Jim Scruggs

D.A. Harrison Elementary

K-5

9:00-3:30

8:00-4:00

991-2242

12900 East Quaker Rd., Disputanta, VA 23842

Sharon O’Neill

North Elementary

K-5

9:00-3:30

8:00-4:00

458-8922

11106 Old Stage Rd., Prince George, VA 23875

Vera Abbott-Young

South Elementary

K-5

9:00-3:30

8:00-4:00

733-2755

13400 Prince George Dr., Disputanta, VA 23842

Robin Pruett

W.A. Walton Elementary

K-5

9:00-3:30

8:00-4:00

733-2750

4101 Courthouse Rd., Prince George, VA 23875

Mattie Thweatt

J.E.J. Moore Middle School

6-7

7:40-2:30

7:00-3:30

733-2740

11455 Prince George Dr., Disputanta, VA 23842

Willie Elliott

N.B. Clements Jr. High

8-9

7:50-2:30

7:00-3:30

733-2730

7800 Laurel Spring Rd., Prince George, VA 23875

Peter Fisher

Prince George High

10-12

7:50-2:30

7:15-3:45

733-2720

7801 Laurel Spring Rd., Prince George, VA 23875

Tracey Smallwood

Prince George Education Center

Alternative

7:45-2:25

7:30-3:30

733-2748

11033 Prince George Dr., Disputanta, VA 23842

Chris Scruggs

Rowanty Vocational Tech Center

Technical

8:00-2:00

7:45-3:45

732-4950

20000 Rowanty Rd., Carson, VA 23830

Dr. Thomas Cope

School

Principal

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Moving to new school is tough for kids of any age BY CAROLE FELDMAN ASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON — With her move from Miami already planned, Denia Lopez talked to her young daughters about the good things they were going to find in Washington, and took them to see the school they would attend. Lafayette Elementary School was shuttered for spring break, but the children stretched up on their toes and peeked in the windows. “The little one fell in love with the kindergarten and pre-K area,” Lopez said. “She couldn’t wait to get here.” Moving to a new school can be traumatic for children of any age, but there are things parents can do to help. “Talk about it,” said Donna Henderson, a professor of counseling at Wake Forest University. “Talk about both sides of it.” A move means trading the known for the unknown, and with that can come grieving for the friends, school and neighborhood left behind, she said. “There are going to be some parts of it that are really scary and

that you can’t figure out immediately, and that’s OK. You’re going to figure it out eventually,” said Henderson, a self-described “Army brat” who moved frequently growing up. But moving to a new school also is an opportunity for students to “rewrite that story about themselves” if they didn’t like the way things were going, she said. “It’s a chance to not make the same mistakes again.” About 37.5 million people moved between 2009 and 2010, according to the Census Bureau. Of those, about 6.5 million were school-age children, between 5 and 17. With 12.5 percent of the population on the move, schools are likely to have programs to welcome newcomers, and counselors recommend that parents take advantage of them. Seeing the school before classes begin can help ease anxieties. Sometimes it’s the school’s counselor or principal who gives new families a tour of the building. Other times, it’s the students, as at Sheboygan South High School in Wisconsin. Counselor Please see MOVING, Page 10

Kids can pull off a good kooky clothing combo BY SAMANTHA CRITCHELL AP FASHION WRITER

NEW YORK — Some kids might look like they are getting dressed in the dark: crazy pattern combinations, clashing colors, and mismatched socks and shoes. Perhaps, though, they are making enlightened fashion choices — choices that represent their personalities and budding senses of style, and encourage fun and even a wink to convention. Eventually, children will start to notice trends, rules and peer pressure, but until then, experts say, let them wear their plaid on plaid, shocking pink with neon T6

orange, and argyle with polka-dots. And different colored socks, of course. They’ll look great doing it, if you don’t hold them back or challenge their confidence. (This is not giving license to youngsters for an inappropriate wardrobe, just a more creative one.) “Kids are interested in high fashion, and we have to fit that with our motto, which is ‘Long Live Fun,’” says Sarah Hough, vice president of design for 77 Kids, a label under the American Eagle umbrella. “Our assortment plays into that. We design not an eclectic mess, but we suggest ways kids can be

more individual.” Be the sporty girl who’ll wear a glittery top, floral denim jeans and canvas high-top sneakers, Hough says. “Our girl can pull off mixing so many patterns and stripes and pieces in a way that we might not be able to do as adults, and the main reason is, she doesn’t care what we think.” “Everything looks good on children,” agrees Cathy Carrington-Birch, Mini Boden’s buying and merchandising director, who picks corduroy shorts paired with tights as a trend for girls this back-to-school season, and brushed tartan Please see CLOTHING, Page 11

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AP PHOTO/LYNNE SLADKY

This Saturday, June 25, photo shows Rafael Acosta, center, with his daughters Anaily Acosta, 9, left, and Ayleen Acosta, 6, right, outside of Highpoint Academy, their former school, in Miami. Anaily and Ayleen now live in Washington with their mother and attend a new school, but they are spending the summer in Miami, with their father and old friends.

SAINT JOSEPH SCHOOL Faith-Filled, Quality Education since 1876

S c h o o l B e g i n s o n M o n d a y, A u g u s t 2 2 ! P r e K b e g i n s o n M o n d a y, A u g u s t 2 9 !

Still registering for the 2011-2012 school year! All Day Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 Kindergarten through 8th Grade Grades 9 & 10 Virtual High School Art, Music/Band/Choir, Technology, P.E., Spanish (8th), Algebra (8th) Before & After School Care After School Sports Tuition Assistance, Military Discount Accredited by SACS & VCEA

w w w. s a i n t j o s e p h s c h o o l . c o m (804)732-3931 1 2 3 F r a n k l i n S t r e e t , P e t e r s b u r g , VA 2 3 8 0 3


STUDENT ATTENDANCE POLICY The Petersburg City Public School division is committed to the academic success of all students and to the belief that all students can learn. Students must attend school daily so that they can achieve the best education possible. The Code of Virginia, Section 22.1-254, requires that all children who have reached their fifth birthday on or before September 30th, and who have not reached their 18th birthday, must attend school. If a student must be absent, the parent or guardian is responsible for contacting the school by telephone, note or other means to explain the absence, on the FIRST day of the child’s absence. For any absence, the parent/guardian, within two days of the student’s return to school, must send a note providing dates and reasons for the absences. Students who obtain seven unexcused absences may be referred for juvenile proceedings (Juvenile Court). For more information about the student attendance policy and other rules and regulations, please read the RIGHTS AND RESPONSBILITIES HANDBOOK Code of Con-duct or contact PCPS Student Services, at 804-861-5841. Any parent who elects to provide home instruction in lieu of school attendance shall annually notify the Student Services Coordinator no later than August 15th of their intention. Also provide a description of the curriculum to be followed for the academic year. Intent forms may be obtained from the Office of Student Services.

REGISTRATION Registration for new students in all grades is now under way. To register, new students must have: • • • • • •

A copy of their birth certificate. A recent health record (Virginia physical). An up to date record of all immunizations. A Social Security card. Proof of residence (Lease, water bill or light bill). A copy of their report card. State law prohibits school attendance without these records on file in the school office. Registration will be accepted in all schools. However, students are assigned to elementary and middle schools according to the school zones. Parents are urged to register their children without delay.

Address Changes: If you have not yet notified your child’s school of an address change or phone number change, please do so immediately. Changes in address could affect the school assignment, so we must have a correct address on file for each student. An incorrect phone number means we may not be able to reach you in an emergency.

OUR SCHOOL BOARD Kenneth L. Pritchett, Chairman, Ward 3 Steven L. Pierce Sr., Vice Chair, Ward 1 Fred Wilson, Ward 2 Mary Jane Hendricks, Ward 4 Dr. Kenneth W. Lewis, Ward 5 Bernard Lundy Jr., Ward 6 Dr. Elsie R. Jarmon, Ward 7

Petersburg City Public Schools www.petersburg.k12.va.us

“Moving from Effectiveness to Greatness… Teamwork Makes the Dream Work”

2011-2012 SCHOOL CALENDAR Holidays:

Jul. 4, Sep. 5, Nov. 24 - 25, Dec. 19 - 30, Jan. 16, Feb. 20, Apr. 9 - 13, May 28

Holidays for 12-month employees:

Jul. 4, Sep. 5, Nov. 24 - 25, Dec. 22 - 23, Dec. 29 - 30, Jan. 16, Feb. 20, Apr. 9 - 10, May 28

New Teacher Training:

Aug. 22-26, 2011

Division Staff Development: (Required days for Para-professionals)

Aug. 29-30, Nov. 8, Feb. 21

Teacher Work Days:

Sep. 1, 2, Jan. 30, Jun. 18

Early Release Days/Staff Development: Oct. 10, Mar. 13 Early Release Days for Holidays:

Nov. 23, Dec. 16, May 25

Early Release Days for Parent Conference/Report Card Pick-up

Nov. 17, Apr. 19

Graduation 2012

Jun. 9, 2012

Last Day for Teachers/School Staff

Jun. 18, 2012

Summer School Begins:

Jun. 25, 2012

Summer Hours Begin:

Jun.25, 2012 (M-TH 7:30a.m. - 5:30p.m. --Close Fridays)

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES Superintendent’s Message Welcome to the 2011-2012 school year! The teachers and staff of the Petersburg City Public Schools are ready and excited to see the yellow buses arrive. We promise that your child’s school will continue to be a clean, safe, happy place to learn. During the summer, we worked hard to prepare for the new school year. We want your child to have access to the best technology, textbooks and learning programs available. We want his or her teacher to be enthusiastic, knowledgeable and understanding. We have taken specific steps to make these things happen. Parent and guardians, be sure to join the Parent Teacher Association for your child’s school. This is a great way to keep up with news and to support the school. Get to know your child’s teacher through regular communication and visits to the school. Find out what extracurricular and after-school activities are offered. Encourage your child to take part. Please join us in celebrating a new school year in the Petersburg City Public Schools! Sincerely, Dr. Alvera J. Parrish Superintendent of Petersburg City Public Schools

Dr. Alvera J. Parrish, Superintendent

DON’T MISS THESE EVENTS! School Orientations (call your school for more info) Governor’s School Informational Meeting; October 12, VJJHS

MISSION STATEMENT Petersburg City Public Schools will provide a quality education to all students that will meet or exceed local, state and national standards. We commit to challenge and provide the necessary support so that each student will achieve at his or her highest potential in a safe, secure and nurturing environment. We will provide experiences for our students to become life-long learners and contributing members in a global society. The Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook will be distributed and reviewed the first week of school. Parents are asked to review the handbook with their children at home. Parents should sign the “Receipt of Code of Conduct Handbook” form and return it their child’s school.

SCHOOL DIRECTORY A.P. Hill Elementary School (K-5) Principal: Dr. Ronnie Watson (862-7015) J.E.B. Stuart Elementary School (K-5) Principal: Kori Reddick (862-7012) Robert E. Lee Elementary School Principal: Barbara Patterson (861-0155) Walnut Hill Elementary School Principal: Zelda Lynch (862-7004) Westview Early Childhood Education Center Supervisor: Tonya Brown-Fletcher (862-7009) Peabody Middle School (6-7) Principal: Dr. Yardley Farquharson (862-7069) Vernon Johns Jr. High School (8-9) Principal: Dimitri Roseboro (862-7018) Petersburg High School Principal: Alicia Fields (862-7095) Blandford Academy (Alternative) Principal: Lawrence Bolar (862-7196)

STUDENTS FEE SCHEDULE 2011-12 Student Lockers (6 to 9) - $2 Student Lockers (10-12) - $2 Musical Instruments — $10 Band Uniforms — $10 Behind-the-Wheel Driver Education — $75 Transcripts (after the first copy) - $2 Student Parking (Petersburg High School) - $25 Gym Uniforms (6-9) - $15 Gym Uniforms (10-12) - $25 TEXTBOOKS Textbooks and workbooks are provided at no cost to students. However, students are required to pay full price for lost or severely damaged books. OPTIONAL Student Accident Optional Insurance: School time: $23. With accident dental: $33. OPENING/CLOSING HOURS 2011-2012 SCHOOLS Petersburg High, Blanford Academy Vernon Johns Peabody A.P. Hill, J.E.B. Stuart, Walnut Hill Wesrview, R.E.Lee

STUDENT HOURS TEACHER HOURS 7:20 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 7:05 a.m. - 2:25 p.m. 7:25 a.m. - 2:05 p.m. 8:05 a.m. - 2:45 p.m. 8:35 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

7:10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. 7:40 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 8:10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

9:10 a.m. - 3:50 p.m.

8:40 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Email info@petersburg.k12.va.us to be added to our district announcements list, our district athletic announcements list, or both.

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S occer practice. B allet class.P iano lessons.Connect with friends.

It s Back to School and the b est tim e to start carpooling ag ain!

BE A CARPOOL HERO!

ride the b us • carpool • va npool ride y our bik e • walk • telew ork Call 643-RI DE Today! ridefinders.com RI DEFI NDERS I S A DIVISI ON OF GRTC TRANSI T SYSTEM

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We really must do lunch! SAFELY BY MICHELLE LOCKE FOR THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

AP PHOTO/LYNNE SLADKY

This Saturday, June 25, photo shows Rafael Acosta, center, as he walks with his daughters Anaily Acosta, 9, left, and Ayleen Acosta, 6, right, outside of Highpoint Academy, their former school, in Miami.

MOVING

Continued from Page 6

Steve Schneider said that if the school has advance notice, a new student can shadow a current one for half a day, learning how to navigate things like schedules and lunch time. Orientation programs inform parents about what’s available, from extracurricular activities to tutoring and other support services. Once school begins, there may be special activities for new students. Lopez said her children — third-grader Anaily and kindergartner Ayleen — met other new students while taking part in those programs at Lafayette. “They felt better that they were not alone,” she said. Joining a club or team also can help the transition for children. “They may not have a place socially at the outset, but you’ll have a place if you’re doing music or you’re doing sports or if you’re in a debate club or on a math T10

And academically, it may be more difficult in the middle of the year to match the new school’s curriculum with that of the old, Schneider said. Still, some parents choose that route and delay moving until the fall because they don’t want their child to have a summer in a new neighborhood without friends, Henderson said. Regardless of when the move is made, parents and counselors say it helps if children keep in touch with old friends. “I think if there’s any way to maintain some continuity with their old life as they knew it rather than going totally cold turkey, then that’s helpful,” Cavendish said. Lopez’s daughters are spending the summer in Miami, with their father and old friends. “My older daughter also told me that for her the best thing was to have an e-mail address, and being able to chat and e-mail with her friends and old teachers,” Lopez said.

team,” said Betsy Cavendish, whose daughters, Lucy and Margaret Kellogg, transferred last fall from private school to public schools in Washington, D.C. Margaret, now 14, started Alice Deal Middle School as an eighth-grader; Lucy, now 11, entered Lafayette as a fifth-grader. “In both schools, the extracurricular programs were incredibly welcoming, and both got started off on the cross-country teams in the fall,” Cavendish said. Margaret also got involved in musical programs at Deal. The sisters will be making another transition this fall, Margaret to high school and Lucy to middle school. “It’s nice for my middleschooler to go to high school with a base of friends that she made this year,” Cavendish said. Although transfers at any time can be difficult, counselors say the beginning of the school year usually is easier. Entering midyear can be tougher because friendship groups have already been established.

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When it comes to lunch box safety, you can’t be too cool for school. “One of the most important guidelines for keeping it safe is just keeping it cold,” says Christine Bruhn, director of the Center for Consumer Research at the University of California, Davis. Safe lunches begin with safe shopping and home storage. In other words, perishable foods intended for lunches — such as raw or cooked meat and poultry — should be kept cold or frozen at the store and at home. And don’t leave food out at room temperature for more than two hours, one hour if the temperature is over 90. When it comes to packing lunch, it’s a good idea to do it the night before. This not only gives you a bit more time during the morning rush, it also allows perishable

“One of the most important guidelines for keeping it safe is just keeping it cold.” — Christine Bruhn, director, Center for Consumer Research, University of California

food plenty of time to chill. Aviva Goldfarb, author of the “The Six O’Clock Scramble” cookbook, packs lunches while making or cleaning up from dinner. Please see SAFELY, Page 14


CLOTHING

out the door each morning on the boys. “My mom would march me back to my room to change, but I think there are bigger fights to be had, and I’m proud of them that they are doing their own thing,” she says. She laughs: It also has made doing the laundry easier. “I used to match all socks so they were paired. Now I just throw them in

den it works really well,” she says. More good news for parents paying for all this, according to Twomey, is that children have sharp opinions and deep loyalties. While an adult might buy something and then leave it in the closet for months (or years) never sure if it was worth purchasing, kids often want to wear their new items day after day

— saying you can wear argyle and polka-dot socks — but it’s all still motherContinued from Page 6 approved,” says spokeswoman Kerry Brown. cargo pants for boys. And, she adds, her brand “As a result, they’re confidoes put a lot of thought dent enough to try combinainto the seemingly crazy tions that adults would deem combinations. too daring. Once they reach It’s the same story at a certain age, they have a Mini Boden, which offers very clear idea of what they some “ready-mixed” comlike,” Carrington-Birch says. bos, such as a flowered jerFor now-9-year-old Ryland sey dress with striped arms, Doll, that day came early and tops that mix dots — back in preschool — and and stripes, which are he’s carved out his own popular for boys as well signature look ever since. as older girls “who develHis mother, Mollie, op an allergy to floral describes a toddler who prints,” says Carringtonalways seemed interested Birch. in his clothes, favoring Meanwhile, Crocs, “preppy” when he was after seeing so many chilvery young. That soon dren purposely wearing changed to a look that two shoes of different beats its own drum. colors, launched its Elec“In elementary school, tro collection, which fea— Cathy Carrington-Birch, buying and merchandizing direche never wanted socks to tures three colors on tor for Mini Boden match — that would drive each shoe. That’s six difme to distraction — but ferent colors for those they can’t ever be the same who keep up their mixedcolor, and now it’s shoelacpair ways, notes Christy es,” says Doll, of Raleigh, Saito, the company’s N.C. the drawer.” and, when they’ve worn it senior director of product. It’s not that Ryland doesn’t Moms often warm up to out, they want a very simiHough, the 77 Kids care — that better describes the crazy combinations lar thing in the size up. designer, gets a vicarious his 6-year-old brother, Beckonce their eyes adjust, On the flip side, if they thrill from the greater freeton, another one who wears observes Lori Twomey, don’t like it on Day 1, you’re dom that children have to those mismatched socks and chief merchant of the probably never getting dress creatively. But she’s shoes. Beckton’s real special- membership flash-sale web- them in it. OK with not being able to ty is plaid-on-plaid. site Zulily. How can they Little Miss Matched, the pull off the multi-pattern Ryland, says his mom, is resist their little prince or 7-year-old brand that was look herself; you grow into “deliberate about being princess who is loving among the first to package an adult wardrobe, she mishmosh, but the little one styles that are bright, fun and market such fashion says. does it because he just and whimsical? independence, encourages “I’m hearing adults are “They’ll mix fabrics kids to find their voice in an liking our back-to-school doesn’t care.” together and colors that you arena that’s safe and still line, but I don’t know if I’d Doll has grown to love the say, ‘They don’t go,’ but then respectful. “It’s about allow- like to see all the adults surf-meet-punk-sort-ofyou see it and all of a suding kids to break the rules wearing it,” Hough says. clean-cut look that comes

“... They’re confident enough to try combinations that adults would deem too daring. Once they reach a certain age, they have a very clear idea of what they like.”

AP PHOTO/77KIDS

This product image courtesy of 77Kids shows an outfit from 77Kids. Eventually, children start to notice trends, rules and peer pressure, but until then, experts say, let them wear their plaid on plaid, shocking pink with neon orange, and argyle with polka-dots. And different colored socks, of course.

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College application timeline for high schoolers BY LEANNE ITALIE ASSOCIATED PRESS

NEW YORK — Getting into college is a full-time job for many high schoolers, especially those receiving little help from guidance counselors and without the money to hire private consultants. From resume building and campus tours to test prep and essay writing, there’s a lot for kids to contend with, and a lot for parents who may not have gone through the process themselves. College admissions officials and paid helpers urge families to stretch the application process over all four years of high school to make it less of a mad dash and more of a marathon. Try this timeline to break down the to-do list: FRESHMAN YEAR Enroll in rigorous classes, said Jim Montoya, a former admissions dean at Stanford and Vassar and a vice president of the College Board. The board, CollegeBoard.org, administers SAT, Advanced Placement test-

ing and SAT Subject Tests. If you have a specific college in mind this early, check its academic requirements online and find the school on Facebook for up-to-date chatter and official announcements. Generally, colleges prefer four years of English, as well as history, math, science and a foreign language, Montoya said. Explore SAT Subject Tests in your strongest classes and expect to take them while the material is fresh. Some colleges require subject tests. Either way, it wouldn’t hurt to throw them into the mix. Visit a college informally when school is in session, especially if you’ve never stepped foot on a campus. Formal touring can wait. The idea is to provide a glimpse into college life. Make a long-term commitment to an extracurricular activity and community service. Don’t pile on the extras. Choose things you truly love and work toward making a significant contribution over four years. If financial aid is in your future, get literate on how to find it and how to apply for it. Have a heart-to-heart with your parents on money matters. Begin looking into how scholarships

work and what the FAFSA is (it’s the Free Application for Federal Student Aid). “It’s never too early to begin to understand financial aid,” said Rick Dalton, who heads College for Every Student, a nonprofit that helps low-income public school students move toward higher education. “It’s important to understand the concept, that there’s money out there. Not understanding that is a huge impediment in getting interested in college to begin with.” SOPHOMORE YEAR Think about when to take the practice SAT or ACT college entrance exams. The preliminary SAT, called the PSAT, is given in October and is combined with the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Free online practice and prep books are everywhere. The College Board suggests using your access code on your PSAT score report to sign in to the board’s “My College QuickStart,” a personalized planning kit to help prepare for the real SAT using a study strategy based on your preliminary results. Taking practice exams for both the SAT and the ACT will help you decide which is

the better test for you. Test-optional schools do exist. Go to FairTest.org for a look at more than 800 four-year colleges that don’t require them. Start thinking about what areas of the country appeal to you, and begin exploring what you might like to study in college. There may be something you haven’t thought of that appeals to you. “Don’t put that off until junior year, which is what a lot of students do,” advises consultant Ann Garber. “You don’t want to be the 11th grader who gasps, ‘I have no idea what I want.’” Martha Merrill, dean of admissions and financial aid at Connecticut College, a testoptional school, said that only a general idea of the types of schools that appeal is necessary sophomore year. “Their interests, needs and wants will change over the next few years,” she said. Montoya cautioned that the application process “should not be driven solely by the student’s intended academic major.” He added: “The vast majority of college undergraduates will change their major at least once or twice.” Please see COLLEGE, Page 15

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SAFELY

Continued from Page 10

She recommends doing the nonperishable items such as crackers and cookies during the weekend to make things that much easier. If sliced lunch meats are on the menu, it’s a good idea to check the sell-by date before purchasing, and then use up the meat within about three to five days of purchase, says Bruhn. (And, of course, you’ll be keeping the meat tightly wrapped and in the fridge in the meantime.) But how can you be sure your lovingly prepared lunch will stay cool?

One way to go is with an insulated lunch box, a frozen gel pack and thermoses. You might also want to talk to your child about the importance of keeping the lunch somewhere shaded and cool during the day — not in the sun or next to a radiator. If bringing gel packs to and from school isn’t practical, you can slip a frozen juice box — make sure it’s labeled as 100 percent juice, of course — into a lunch box or sack lunch. By the time lunch rolls around, the juice should be thawed enough to drink, but the food should still be cool. To keep hot foods hot, a thermos is required. You’ll get the most out of your thermos if you fill it with

boiling water and let it stand for a few minutes before emptying it and putting in the hot soup, chili, etc. Less demanding foods include whole fruits and vegetables, hard cheese, and the old standby of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. (Though you will need to check with school officials to make sure there isn’t a ban on peanut butter due to nut allergy concerns.) String cheese is a good traveler that’s popular with children and also is a source of calcium. Fresh fruits such as apples or oranges are a good choice. For more tender fruit like peaches, you may be better off sending fruit that’s been canned with no added sugar.

Grapes are good, too, as are carrots and celery. Grapes travel best when packed in a rigid container. Another sturdy snack is nuts, though again you need to check to make sure your child’s school doesn’t have a no-nuts rule. To make the process as smooth as possible, Goldfarb, whose website focuses on time-saving ways to feed your family, suggests brainstorming with your children before the school year starts to see what kind of things they’d like for lunch. Some suggestions: • Tuna or chicken or egg salad with whole-grain crackers • Popcorn alone or mixed with raisins and nuts

• Low-fat yogurt with fresh fruit and granola or other cereal (keep them separate and let your child combine them at lunch) • Baby carrots, celery, sliced cucumbers, red bell peppers and pita chips with hummus, peanut butter or other dip And, “Packing lunches doesn’t have to always be Mom’s job,” says Goldfarb. “It goes faster if the kids or other parent or caregivers help.” More online: USDA: http://www.fsis.usda. gov/Fact<0x2014>Sheets/Keeping <0x2014>Bag<0x2014>Lunches<0x 2014>Safe/index.asp Aviva Goldfarb: http://www.thescramble.com

Welcome Back To School Good Luck In Your Studies TAYLOR’S RANDOLPH MARKET AUTO SERVICE

Best wishes from our family to yours! (804) 458-0880 3501 Woodlawn St. Hopewell

Corner of 6th Ave. & Broadway Hopewell, Virginia

Do not play near power lines, underground transformer boxes, or in trees near power lines.

We o n l y s e l l t h e finest beef available, Certified Angus! O p e n 7 D a y s A We e k !

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Have A Safe School Year!

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210 N .4th A v en u e,H o p e w ell

(804) 458-3004

Where students and teachers like to eat! 5 Cavalier Square Hopewell • 458-4241

458-6325

905 Cousins Avenue in Hopewell (Oaklawn Blvd exit off 295) w w w. c a r e - v i r g i n i a . c o m / h o p e w e l l


COLLEGE

Continued from Page 13

CollegeConfidential.com is a trove of information. It includes a college search tool and heavy message traffic from young people if you’re looking to network. Melanie Reed, the director of college advising at a private prep school in Seattle, the Seattle Academy, said the focus in 10th grade should be building a sound high school transcript and a foundation in extracurricular activities. JUNIOR YEAR It’s crunch time. There are nearly 4,500 degree-granting, two- and four-year colleges and universities in the United States. A high school junior should have a list of anywhere from five to 20 they wish to tour formally, including information sessions with college officials. Scheduling tours during the summer between 10th and 11th grades may come in handy, but note that campus life can look sparse without many students around. No way to visit every campus on your list? Check YOUniveristyTV.com to see if your choice is among more than 3,000 virtual tours available. CampusTours.com offers a more limited selection. Request information packets from chosen schools but keep in mind that glossy brochures and sweeping mission statements don’t tell the whole story. Dig deep into department pages on school websites and check out faculty profiles, Merrill said. Seek out students or alumni either online or through friends, family and recruiter visits scheduled nearby or at your high school. By 11th grade, a high schooler should have paid a call on the guidance counselor, though public school counselors are stretched to the limit. They’ll meet with you junior year, but the number of visits might be restricted to just a couple, so be well

prepared to review your transcript and talk about specific college and financial aid options. Junior year is also the time to schedule the SAT or ACT. The ACT is an achievement test, measuring what a student has lear ned in school, according to the website of the American College Testing Programs Inc., which administers it. The SAT is more of an aptitude test, covering reasoning and verbal abilities. The SAT is administered seven times a year — in October, November, December, January, March, May and June, always on Saturday mornings. The ACT is given six times a year — in September, October, December, February, April and June. Special arrangements can be made. Test sites fill up so book early. Both tests cost money but need-based waivers are available. You can take them more than once. Some colleges allow you to send them your best scores but others require the results of all attempts. This is also the year that students consider which teachers, coaches and other grownups they will hit up for letters of recommendation, so make nice. Garber said juniors should begin thinking about the dreaded application essay by keeping a journal or diary. “It’s a way for them to think back and ask, ‘What are the things in my life that have helped me become who I am, that have set me apart?’” she said. “Starting to be a little self-reflective can lead to essay topics.” Some experts suggest putting together a rough draft of the essay junior year and honing it later on. At the very least, the essay shouldn’t be left until the last minute. Merrill said students should begin college essays the summer before senior year. Continue your “education” on how to seek financial aid. Know the difference between need-based aid and merit-based aid, and how to access grants (free money) versus applying for loans

that must be repaid. SENIOR YEAR Welcome to the home stretch. Montoya suggests making a master calendar to keep track of test dates, fees and deadlines, including those for retakes of the SAT or ACT and tests on Advanced Placement courses and subjects. College application and financial aid deadlines should be included. So should a list of those who plan to write recommendation letters, whom to ask for transcripts and when they’re due. Now’s the time to dig into the essay and begin work on applications, including the FAFSA form and scholarships. Many schools use the “common application” but some have their own systems. Regardless, most are filed online. It’s also the time to determine whether you’ll seek “early decision” at a specific school, meaning you’re committed to accept if you get in. Early decision and early action, which is nonbinding but states a strong preference, allow you to apply earlier and hear back early while also applying to other schools. Don’t forget to request a final transcript at the end of senior year. And don’t think senior year is a time to slack off. “Once the applications have been submitted, avoid senioritis,” consultant Katherine Cohen said. “Senior year grades count!” If a “gap year” is in your future, make sure you understand the deferred enrollment policies of the schools where you’re applying. “Use your senior year to refine your search and arrive at a decision,” said Edith Waldstein, vice president for enrollment management at Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa. “What questions remain unanswered? Do you need to go back to campus again to answer them? Use your gut, your heart and your head to know where you will feel at home, where you will be successful academically,” she said.

Center of the Performing Arts

11925 Centre Street Chester, VA 23831 Chester Village

804-777-9983 Baby Tu-Tu, Kinderdance, Ballet, Lyrical, Pointe, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Hip-Hop, Baton and Gymnastics Ages 2 and up

Dance Xplosive 2011-2012 Registration Dates: Mon.-Wed. August 8th-10th: 5p.m.-8p.m. (For Current Students)

Mon.-Wed. August 15th-17th: 5p.m.-8p.m. (For New Students)

Competition Team, Christmas Parades, Community Performances, and Spring Recital.

Classes Begin September 12, 2011

We are… XPANDING!!!

This new addition will take place for the 2011- 2012 season! We are proud to announce this and are very Xcited to the upcoming seasons in our newly developed bigger and better studio. This will give us a total of three bigger studios, at the same location.

Michelle’s Xplosive Competition Team Try Outs August 8th 6:00p.m. : Dancers will learn a combination taught by Miss Michelle August 10th 6:00p.m. : Dancers will review combination, and then tryouts will begin!

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Help give them the power to succeed

F

or thousands of children in our community, having healthy, reliable food isn’t a sure thing. In fact for some, it’s a rarity. But our leaders of tomorrow need regular, nutritious meals to thrive. Otherwise, hunger can rob them of the power to succeed, both in school and in life.

That’s why, with your help, the Central Virginia Food Bank provides essential building blocks like peaches and bananas, green beans and broccoli, peanut butter, tuna, and more to those in need.

In fact, in our last fiscal year we supplied more than 17 million pounds of food to neighbors, along with tens of thousands of hot, healthy meals in summer and after-school programs.

Make a powerful difference! Call 804-521-2500 or visit feedmore.org. T16

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