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Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper VOL. 44 NO. 28 50¢ A Pr oud PPaper aper ffor or a Pr oud PPeople...Sinc eople...Sinc Proud Proud eople...Sincee 1971 THURSDA THURSDAYY, AUGUST 20 - WEDNESDA WEDNESDAYY, AUGUST 26 26,, 2015

Julian Bond praised for unselfish devotion to human rights

By Freddie Allen NNPA Senior Washington Correspondent WASHINGTON (NNPA) – Julian Bond, a founding member and communications director of Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and immediate past board chairman of the NAACP, is being praised for his lifelong human rights contributions by people ranging from President Obama and his former civil rights colleagues to ordinary people who have benefited from his courage and advocacy.

Bond, co-founder of the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), died Saturday night, Aug. 15, 2015 at the age of 75.

He served as the president of the SPLC, a legal advocacy organization that promotes equality and tracks hate groups, from 1971 to 1979 and later on the board of directors, according to a statement issued by the group.

“Julian Bond helped change this country for the better.

And what better way to be remembered than that,” stated President Barack Obama.

“With Julian’s passing, the country has lost one of its most passionate and eloquent voices for the cause of justice,” SPLC

said in a statement announcing Bond’s death. “He advocated not just for African Americans, but for every group, indeed

every person subject to oppression and discrimination, because he recognized the common humanity in us all.”

The statement continued: “Not only has the country lost a hero today, we’ve lost a great friend.”

President Barack Obama said in a statement, “Julian Bond was a hero and, I’m privileged to say, a friend. Justice and equality was the mission that spanned his life – from his leadership of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, to his founding role with the Southern Poverty Law Center, to his pioneering service in the Georgia legislature and his steady hand at the helm of the NAACP. Michelle and I have benefited from his example, his counsel, and his friendship – and we offer our prayers and sympathies to his wife, Pamela, and his children.”

President Obama added, “Julian Bond helped change this country for the better. And what better way to be remembered than that.”

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70fathers,othersignificantmaleswelcomeVillagestudents back on first day of school school.”

Monday’s event was an initiative of the national Million Fathers March, an opportunity for men to show their commitment to the educational lives of their children on the first day of school and throughout the school year.

Research shows that students with involved fathers score higher on cognitive tests, have higher self-esteem and possess abilities associated with higher education achievement, Principal LaToya Dixon said.

Dixon identified the need to improve parental involvement

Delray Beach Assistant Fire Chief Victor Williams hugs a student at Village Academy as she returns to school on the first day back on Monday.

By Don Stephens DELRAY BEACH, FLWhen Kevin Thompson showed up for classes at Village Academy Monday morning, he expected to be greeted by his teachers and maybe his principal – not 70 men who were there to welcome students as they returned from the summer break.

“This was a surprise and exciting,” Thompson, 16, said. “I have never seen anything like this and been greeted like this.

Seeing all of these adults greet us on our first day back makes me want to strive harder in school.”

The students at the public school in Delray Beach were smiling from ear to ear as they walked through the main door and saw the love and support from the men of their community. There were police officers, fire fighters, several city employees, retirees and a host of

other private sector workers.

The men, in two rows, gave high-fives and cheered the students as they walked between them. The scene resembled that of an athlete running through a tunnel and being greeted by many cheering fans.

“It’s all about the community and I am overjoyed with the overwhelming support shown today by the community of Delray Beach,” Assistant Chief of Police Javaro Sims said. “We are a village and today the love was shown by our males.”

Parent Maurice Hayes was impressed by the grand reception as he took his daughter, Tahja Hayes, to school.

“It is both shocking and exciting to see that all of these men care enough to come out and support our kids,” Hayes said. “I definitely would have loved to have fathers greet me like this on my first day of

Pleading Our Own Cause

at Village Academy this school year and Monday’s initiative addressed that need.

“It is extremely important for these kids to see male role models greeting them on their first day of school,” Dixon said.

“Some of these students do not have father figures and seeing these men gives them someone to look up to. We look forward to working more closely with our fathers this year to ensure student success!”

The men will be invited to volunteer or attend activities throughout the year, organizers said.

Black students more likely to face discipline, less likely to receive treatment

By Jonathan Hunter, Special to the NNPA from the AfroAmerican Newspaper Black students face harsher punishments than their peers and are less likely to receive mental health attention for their problems, according to new research.

According to the Department of Education’s Office of Civil

WWW.

Rights, Black students are expelled and suspended three times more often than white students. And a new study published in the journal Sociology of Education found that school districts with large Black populations were less likely to consider offering counseling services compared to predominantly white school districts.

School districts in which a large portion of the students

Westside Gazette Newspaper

For whom the bell tolls A pupil is not above his teacher; but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher.

Luke 6:40 (NASB)

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr. The school bell will soon ring in the new school year.

As we begin the new school year let it begin free of criminal acts designed for the destruction of our children.

The criminal acts perpetrated against our children result in some of the most negative resounding effects that could devastate a people for generations to come.

Sometimes these crimes are perpetuated by loved ones and the people whose lives our children have been entrusted to, TO educate them.

I’m reminded of how a system can point fingers and blame others for their systemic way of “killing” off the dreams of our precious cargo that carry the promise of our future.

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Songfest 2015-featur ed -featured guest artist Francine Ealey Francine Ealey Murphy will Murphy be the featured guest music-

MURPHY From Barbara Scruggs Renowned, anointed and accomplished gospel vocalist, producer and recording artist,

were Black would usually report incidents to law enforcement officers—not the case in majority white school districts. The study, entitled “The Social Structure of Criminalized and Medicalized School Data” examined how “district level racial/ethnic and socioeconomic compositions” affect the method of discipline implemented on students. The study was conducted by David Ramey, an assistant professor of sociology and justice at Penn State University. Ramey examined data from 60,000 schools in more than 6,000 school districts, and concluded that that the increased incarceration rates in minority communities results in a criminalized view of students when they misbehave.

According to the study, unlike white parents, the families of Black children are less likely to blame their behavior on medical or psychological causes.

“The legacy of the Tuskegee experiments has left many Black families skeptical of medical and mental research, particularly contested and controversial issues like ADHD,” Ramey wrote in his report.

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ian/artist at the Mount Hermon A.M.E. Church—Voices of Praise Choir—Songfest 2015. The theme for this year’s musical production is: Songfest 2015: "I will bless your name." -- Psalms 145:1KJV. Murphy began singing at the tender age of three. As a child, she honed her musical gifts and skills as part of the Spirit of Life Ensemble, under the direction of noted recording artist and choir director, Pastor Avery Jones.

As a high school student, she continued her musical pursuits under the skillful, watchful eye of the late Dr. Roscoe Speed.

Upon high school graduation, Murphy’s love of music and desire to learn under the best lead her to Bethune-Cookman University(B-CU), where she further developed her talents under the direction of the legendary Professor Rebecca Steele.

It was not long before she became a featured soloist and section lead of the famed BCU Gospel Choir, which gave her the opportunity to tour the country. After college, Murphy returned to Miami, where she became a member of the Heavenly Angels and began to write and produce songs for this sought after ensemble.

Their first project was recorded in 1990 was entitled “New Heights”. Later, Murphy produced her church choir’s album, writing most of the songs, directing and serving as lead vocalist. The El Bethel Tabernacle Mass Choir released their first re-cording entitled, "I Can Not Tell It All" in 1994. In 1997, she and the choir recorded "For Greater Glory" which re-ceived impressive airplay.

(Cont'd on Page 11) MEMBER: National Newspaper Publishers Association ( NNPA), and Southeastern African-American Publishers Association (SAAPA) Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM)

Page 2 • August 20 - August 26, 2015

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Corporate donations make Florida Memorial University’s 'Black Male College Explorers Program' a huge success Florida Memorial University working to shape the mind set of Black males in South Florida ing the past five weeks. Each young man leaves our campus intellectually stimulated, socially aware, physically stronger and spiritually awakened,” states Dr. Artis, president of Florida Memorial University. “I am proud of the work we do in our community and look forward to watching these young men realize their full potential.”

In a climate where young Black boys grapple with a sense of identity and belonging in school and the world, BMCEP offers innovative programs, workshops, panels and hosted

Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, president of FMU and Shawn M. Davis (c) with the Black Male College Explorers.

MIAMI GARDENS, FL – Florida Memorial University’s (FMU) pioneering Black Male College Explorers Program (BMCEP) closed out a successful summer program honoring their top students at an awards presentation. This year’s awards were presented to BMCEP students; Farrell MaysMost Academic, Isiah KnightMr. BMCEP, MVP, Tymoie Coleman-Most Athletic, Daniel Smithen-Most Talented, Ryan Thomas-Freshman of The Year, Eric Vincent-Senior of The Year, Henry Tillman-Senior of the Year, Xavier Jackson-Most Improved.

Due to budget cuts, the BMCEP was experiencing financial constraints; however, generous donations from CareerSource of South Florida, The Batchelor Foundation, AT&T and TD Bank allowed the young men to participate in five weeks of highly concentrated developmental experiences, weekly seminars, workshops and motivational trips.

FMU continues to build a community for academic success

among high-risk male students of color with their BMCEP program. Geared toward Black males from grades seven to 12, the program challenges the students to answer the call to make meaningful changes and help them understand that they can achieve beyond what is often thought or asked of them. Explorers receive tools to improve their quality of life, graduate from high school, facilitate college admissions, and increase their chances to obtain a college degree. High school and college professors are hired to teach STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects which are an educational priority for the BMCEP program.

The summer residential component of BMCEP allows program participants to reside on the campus of Florida Memorial University. The residential component gives students collegiate exposure and experiences beyond their scope. The program has a 100 percent graduation rate. All of the students have graduated from high

school and gone on to a postsecondary education, joined the armed forces or obtained employment. “Each program participant is experiencing collegiate exposure and experiences while matriculating on FMU’s campus during the residential component of the program. Every Black male is surpassing the norm in spite of their adversities; it is truly a blessing to see such a transition in the lives of the youth we serve,” states Mr. Shawn M. Davis, director of BMCEP. Although there is often a persistent disparity in academic achievement, increased likelihood of being unemployed or incarcerated, and the higher rate of death due to violence for Black males compared to their white counterparts, BMCEP provides a blueprint of how to change those narratives, into a positive outcome.

“As we close out the residential portion of the 2015 - 16 Black Male College Explorers Program, I am inspired by the positive changes we have witnessed in the participants dur-

discussions aimed at building their self-worth and empowering them to strive toward success through education. The students learn how to set goals, avoid the pitfalls of the criminal justice system, and develop good decision making skills.

There is also an emphasis on computer programing, science, as well as a weekly spiritual enrichment session. This summer’s program included a Q&A session with Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel. The students had an opportunity to ask very poignant questions a-

bout the relationship between young Black males and officers.

Sheriff Israel shared tips on how to behave when you have an encounter with an officer as well as sharing with the young men the sensitivity training that Broward County officers are going through to help improve relationships with Black communities.

The fall session of BMCEP jumps into gear in September with a 5k Education walk, assistance with creating a profile for college, college recommendations and enrollment for the school year. For additional information about the BMCEP, contact: Shawn M. Davis at (305) 626-3163 or Kareem L. Coney at (305) 626-3108.

For more information, call (305) 626-3600 or visit www.fmuniv.edu.

Hastings recognizes the 25th Anniversary of the Ryan White CARE Act FORT LAUDERDALE, FL -- Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement marking the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Ryan White CARE Act: “In observance of the 25th anniversary of the Ryan White CARE Act, we remember the program’s courageous young namesake and 25 years of federally funded HIV/AIDS treatment, prevention, and research programs. Ryan White was a young teen when he was infected with HIV after a blood transfusion he received to treat his hemophilia. Although Ryan passed away a few short years later, his memory lives on in the tremendous HIV/AIDS awareness advocacy efforts sparked by his courageous battle.

“The Ryan White Program fills gaps in health care coverage not covered by other funding sources, and provides resources for individuals living with HIV/ AIDS who lack the financial

resources to get the care they need.

“While great strides have been made in developing important HIV/AIDS drugs and implementing prevention initiatives, much work remains. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that more than 1.2 million individuals in the United States are living with HIV. Nearly one in eight are unaware of their infection. It is critically important that we ensure that the Ryan White Program has the resources necessary to increase access to testing, while also continuing to treat and provide care to those in need, even in the face of budget shortfalls.

“As a Member of Congress, I will continue to do all that I can to address the needs of individuals and communities impacted by the HIV/AIDS virus, and to make certain that this vital program continues to receive Congressional support. On this important anniversary let us

CONGRESSMAN HASTINGS recognize the nameless health care workers, volunteers, community leaders, advocates, and those individuals affected by HIV/AIDS for all that they do in the fight to create an AIDSfree generation.”

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Senior Member of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Democratic Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation.

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Welcome to the 2015/16 School Year Students head back to class on Aug. 24, 2015

Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) is excited to welcome students back to class on Monday, Aug. 24, 2015, for the 2015/16 school year. To help students and parents prepare, the BCPS Back to School online resource is now available on the District’s website: browardschools.com/ backtoschool.

The Back to School online resource links parents to information about the school calendar; school opening/closing times; attendance policy; the Code of Student Conduct; before and after school child care; breakfast and lunch menus; transportation services; back to school immunizations, graduation requirements and much more. There are also resources to help parents get involved in their child’s education, become a volunteer, monitor academic progress, and learn about English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) services.

BCPS Celebrates 100th Anniversary -- To learn more about the Centennial Celebration, visit browardschools.com/ bcps100.

SMART Initiative and General Obligation Bond - Thanks to the support of the Broward County community, the District is moving forward with the $800 million General Obligation Bond, which will provide funding to meet the most critical facility needs in

our schools and, through the SMART initiative, also allow the District to make investments in music, arts and athletics. For more information, visit browardschools.com/ smartfutures.

All BCPS High Schools Offer Computer Science in 2015/16 -- BCPS is the first Florida school district to partner with the national organization Code.org to offer computer science courses at every BCPS high school. The District is also expanding access to computer science in middle schools and elementary schools. Computer Science is a foundational field that can prepare students for the 21st century workforce. The basic skills can be applied and utilized in many different career paths. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts one in every two Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) jobs in the country will be in computing occupations, with more than 150,000 job openings annually. This makes it one of the fastest growing occupations in the United States.

Dual Language Programs Expand to 26 BCPS Elementary Schools -- BCPS is excited to announce that the Dual Language Programs, an educational approach in which students learn two languages in an instructional setting, is expanding in the 2015/16 school year to include 26 ele-

mentary schools (an increase from 15 schools in 2014/15).

The team or co-teaching model involves two teachers. One teacher instructs all subjects in English and the other teacher will teach Language Arts and Social Studies in the target language. The Dual Language Programs promote bilingualism, biliteracy, cross-cultural awareness and high academic achievement. To learn more about the District’s Dual Language Programs, parents can contact the Bilingual/ESOL department at (754) 321-2590 or visit esol.browardschools.com.

BCPS selected by The White House to participate in the Turnaround Arts Program -- BCPS is one of five school districts in the nation, and the only district in Florida, selected by the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities to participate in its successful Turnaround Arts initiative. The program is taking place at three BCPS elementary schools – Bethune Elementary School, Lake Forest Elementary School and Walker Elementary School – in an effort to narrow the achievement gap and increase student engagement through the arts. As part of the Turnaround Arts Program, the selected schools are receiving arts education training and resources to address their individual needs, including in-school professional development, partnerships with community arts education and cultural organizations, art supplies and musical instruments.

BCPS is the largest school district in the nation to offer Scholastic Chess to all second and third grade students -- In 2015/16, BCPS continues its implementation of the First Move scholastic chess curriculum in all second and third grade classrooms. This is the nation’s largest scholastic chess curriculum initiative in history, and benefits more than 34,000 students across the District. The First Move scholastic chess curriculum helps to increase students’ critical think-

ing, problem-solving and social skills, while students have fun learning to play the game. In addition, studies have shown playing chess increases students’ math skills, reading aptitude and overall academic achievement.

New Innovative Programs and Newly Redesigned Magnet Programs Offered in 2015/16 -- To learn more about all of the District’s Innovative and Magnet program, visit browardschoolsinnovativeprograms.com/ BCPS Partners with The White House to Launch Latinos in Action For more information on Latinos in Action, visit latinosinaction.org/.

Additional exciting District educational options include Montessori, Cambridge-AICE, International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, Debate and the largest JROTC cadet program in the nation.

For more Back to School information, visit the online resource browardschools.com/ backtoschool.

Broward Community School North Conduct and Discipline Code for adult students in technical adult and community education “Adults” are defined as individuals beyond compulsory school age who have legally left the K-12 school program or are high school students who are co-enrolled in an adult program.

For co-enrolled high school students, the District’s Code of Student Conduct applies. 1. All provisions of state, county, and municipal criminal codes as well as School Board policies apply to adult students while they are under the jurisdiction of The School Board of Broward County, Florida. 2. Any adult student who engages in behavior which is in violation of any section of the criminal code may be referred by the school administrator to the appropriate law enforcement agency. Such behavior may result in the involuntary withdrawal of the student from school for a period of time to be determined by the administrator. 3. While under the jurisdiction of The School Board of Broward County, Florida, adult students may not possess or use knives or guns or use any other object defined as a weapon. The possession of a concealed weapon permit does not allow students to possess a firearm on their person or in their automobile while on campus. 4. Adult students may not be in possession of or under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or other mood altering substances while under the jurisdiction of The School Board of Broward County, Florida. 5.

Violation of Rule 3 or 4 shall result in the student being involuntarily withdrawn from all adult, alternative, technical, and community schools for one school year from the date of the infraction. 6. Adult students may not wear clothing, jewelry, buttons, haircuts, or other items or markings which are suggestive, revealing, or indecent; associated with gangs or cults; encourage drugs, alcohol, or violence; or support discrimination on the basis of color, disability, ethnicity, gender, linguistic differences, marital status, national origin, race, religion, socioeconomic background, or sexual orientation. 7. Behavior which is not illegal but does not meet the Conduct and Discipline Code for adults shall be managed in the following manner: a.

The staff person first observing the unacceptable behavior shall meet and discuss the behavior with the student and inform him/her of the consequences if the behavior continues; b. If the unacceptable behavior continues, the student shall be referred to the appropriate administrator for action; c. If the student does not modify his/her behavior after intervention by the administrator, the administrator may suspend the student from the program for up to 10 days or involuntarily withdraw the student from the school for a period of time not to exceed one school year from the date of the infraction. 8. A K-12 student who has been expelled or suspended from the K-12 program may not be accepted for enrollment as an adult student until after the duration of expulsion or suspension. Students who participate in an alternative to external uspension program are not considered suspended.

9. Adult students disciplined under any of the above rules may appeal the decision by following the student grievance procedure.

August 20 - August 26, 2015 • Page 3

Homework overload gets an ‘F ‘F’’ from experts

A mother helps her daughter with homework.

Corey Binns, TODAY.com It seems the smoke has barely cleared from those Fourth of July celebrations, but in many parts of the U.S., parents are trying to light fires under their kids in an effort to get them studying for the new school year.

Unfortunately, new research shows the amount of time kids clock in out of school may not pay off.

Kids who do more homework actually perform worse on standardized tests, according to research by Sydney University educational psychologist Richard Walker, author of the forthcoming book, Reforming Homework: Practices, Learning and Policies.

Homework only boosts student scores in the final three years of high school, says Walker, and only these older high school students should be doing a couple of hours of homework a night. Younger students only benefit from small assignments, if they’re getting help at home.

But that’s not the end of the homework hurdles.

High-achieving students who are swamped with homework can suffer from poor mental and physical health, says Stanford University professor Denise Pope.

In fact, findings consistently show that homework has very limited value in the elementary grades.

In response to this new research, many educators are acknowledging homework’s flaws (much to the delight of students, no doubt). Homework now only accounts for 10 percent of a student’s grade in the Los Angeles Unified School District. And other school districts state they expect high schoolers to spend only about 30 minutes of homework for each class.

Some schools are assigning even less.

Tera Maxwell’s three children — ages two, five, and eight — don’t have any homework at the Montessori International Children’s House in Annapolis, Maryland.

“When you make homework mandatory, it becomes a chore, rather than a joyful activity,” she says.

Other organizations — such as the National PTA — go with a policy supported by Duke University social psychologist Harris Cooper, who advises giving students about 10 minutes of homework each night, per grade level starting in first grade. According to Cooper’s recommendation, a fifth grader would have about 50 minutes of homework per night.

While Cooper, author of The Battle over Homework: Common Ground for Administrators, Teachers, and Parents, has found home-work at every grade level does improve test scores, too much can be detrimental.

How much is too much?

At the middle school level, students max out after 90 minutes, according to Cooper.

High school students show diminishing returns somewhere between 90 minutes and two and a half hours. In elementary school, small take-home assignments may help form study habits.

Unfortunately, what may seem a ant-sized assignment to a biology teacher may come across as a whale of a project to a student in the class.

Research shows the majority of teachers underestimate the amount of homework they give by 50 percent, says Ann Dolin, author of Homework Made Simple: Tips, Tools, and Solutions for Stress-Free Homework.

“That’s a huge discrepancy,” she says.

Another problem for the homework fatigued? The home itself.

When kids are working in the classroom, they are usually quiet and focused, says Dolin.

But at home, they are distracted

by TV, siblings and other family responsibilities.

“Teachers base their homework load on what they see their students accomplishing in class,” she says. “But often, this is far different than what goes on at home.”

According to a survey by the U.S. Dept. of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics, the majority of ninth graders spend less than three hours on homework or studying during a typical school day. But there’s a huge variation in the amount of homework students are doing, say experts.

“We have a whole lot of students who don’t do nearly enough homework at the high school level and we see a decent number of students who probably do too much homework at the other extreme,” says Jim Hull, a senior research analyst at the Center for Public Education.

At the Bay School in San Francisco, teachers not only limit the load they assign, they also carefully choose the types of assignments.

“That’s how you produce someone who is an expert,” says the school’s Academic Dean Andy Shaw, who says he tries help parents understand that more is not always better. “The idea that you might send your kid to school that gives less homework is a scary one. In our society, the amount of homework has become a proxy for rigor.”

He also points out that his students have more time to step away from their coursework to focus on other activities and become more well-rounded people.

“Time spent with family, constructing engineering projects, volunteering, or being involved in musical theater can end up changing a student’s life just as much as what goes in classroom,” he says.

Dawniel Patterson Winningham, mother of a 16-yearold son who plays football and two 14-year-old twin daughters who play basketball, says her teens are busy enough with their afterschool activities.

“I have seen them stay up as late as midnight trying to juggle both extracurricular and homework,” says the Houston, Tex., mom.

Shaw says the importance of a teen’s sleep is one of the reasons behind the low-home-work policy at his school.

“We can’t mandate a bedtime, but we’ve reduced the amount of homework so the students can get more sleep,” he says. “That’s good for them physiologically and intellectually — they perform better when they get more sleep.”

Corey Binns writes about health, science, and social innovation for publications including Popular Science and the Stanford Social Innovation Review. You can follow her on Twitter @coreybinns

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Proposed budget impasse, how will it For whom the bell tolls affect our children’s future

By Otto Banks With the recent coverage on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s budget crisis, parents are understandably concerned about the impact the proposed budget impasse will have on their children’s future. It is unclear what, exactly, will be the final bill; however, the $30.2 billion spend package that was vetoed by the governor included a nominal increase in aid to public schools but was balanced without new taxes. I applaud the Legislature’s attempt to provide quality in education at a reduced cost, but for parents, I have an important message: you have options.

“Options.” You may think, “I’m on a limited budget – what a kind of option is he talking about?” Well, there are generally three school choice options in Pennsylvania: homeschooling, charter schools and private schools.

In homeschooling, a parent or family member usually serves as the educator. In the traditional model, the homeschooling educator chooses the curriculum and guides the student’s education. If a family chooses a non-traditional cyber school model, the student learns at home but is taught by teachers online – the books and curriculum are provided by the school.

Charter Schools, by definition, are publicly-financed, privately-run schools. They are part of the public school system and required to follow state and federal guidelines in order to receive public education funding.

Finally, there’re private schools. This is the part of school choice that’s nearest to my heart. Not only am I the Executive Director of the REACH

Alliance & Foundation, whose goal is to educate the public on the benefits of school choice, but I am also a product of school choice myself, having graduated from Bishop McDevitt High School in Harrisburg.

In television and movies, private schools are often portrayed as elite schools only available to the extremely rich, athletically gifted, or the just plain lucky.

I’m sure you know that Hollywood doesn’t always get things right – and many of Pennsylvania’s private schools are filled with students with hardworking, average parents just like you and your neighbors.

Many of these children attend private schools thanks to generous private scholarships, made possible through two state programs—the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program and the Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) Program. Through the EITC and OSTC programs, businesses donate money to non-profit scholarship or educational improvement organizations. The scholarship organizations take the money donated by businesses and distribute them to families who meet basic income guidelines.

For the 2015-2016 school year, for example, a family is eligible for a scholarship if they make $75,000 per year. Plus, there’s another $15,000 increase in income allowed for each additional dependent.

Scholarship organizations may have additional guidelines families must meet.

Since the EITC Program’s inception in 2001 and the OSTC’s in 2012, more than 30,814 companies have pledged nearly $922 million to EITC and OSTC organizations and over 52,916 scholarships have been awarded to Pennsyl-

BANKS vania’s schoolchildren. The average cost for a private education in Harrisburg, PA is $3,500 for elementary tuition, and $6,000 for high school tuition. Comparatively, the Harrisburg School District spends $17,000 annually per pupil to educate our children.

If you want to learn more about your private school options, please contact the schools in which you would be interested. In addition, there are EITC and OSTC scholarship organizations thought the entire state that award financial scholarships to many types of privatre schools. A link to the list and contact information of every scholarship organization throughout Pennsylvania can be found through REACH’s website.

Thousands of parents just like you once thought that private schools were out of reach – and now their children are happily enrolled in parochial, military, and boarding schools throughout Pennsylvania.

Your child deserves a quality education, and you can help make it happen. Visit the REACH website today at www.paschoolchoice.org .

Former Atlanta Public Schools Research Team Director Tamara Cotman (c) is led to a holding cell after a jury found her guilty in the Atlanta Public Schools test-cheating trial, April 1, 2015, in Atlanta.

(Credit: AP/Kent D. Johnson) (Cont'd from FP) These dream killers are masked in caps and gowns who, in a lot of cases, have been given certificates of diplomas from prestigious universities that say they are now qualified to “teach” our most impressionable children.

Yet, they do not possess the most innate quality of loving a difference in another’s child.

Moved and motivated by the need to personally achieve, they grind the dreams of children to a dead halt with their status of nobility based upon the societal antidote for success: “You get yours, cause I got mine; the hell with you ‘cause it’s all about me!”

These classroom gladiators are allowed to roam in their personal spaces under the watchful eyes of principals who in actuality have no principles.

Busy with trying to earn, what’s in their minds as a small paycheck; missing the opportunity totally to receive benefits for the rest of their lives-if they would teach the children with love, respect and dignity instead of looking for

a monetary payoff.

This is all done under the auspices of an educational system that is run by “experts”. In some cases this is one of the most oxymoronic situations in the total education of our children.

Teachers, not all forget as soon as they make the ascension from hell(classrooms) to heaven (office of administration) what delicate vessels of yearning sit right in front of them daily. Like sponges waiting to suck every ounce of love that they are willing to share as they traverse through the extraterrestrial universe of their expanding minds.

What makes a great teacher is the ability to show love, to be patient while being passionate when approaching the cerebral cortex (that outer layer that protects the cerebrum(brain)) or they will never be allowed to explore the unlimited possibilities of their students... Some teachers are satisfied with just touching the outer layer and never going deeper.

If a teacher doesn’t believe in what he or she is teaching, then the students

won’t, either.

What is more deplorable is a failed system that uses students/ others as scapegoats when it is caught in a minefield of exploding charges of moving students along for the numbers game.

The other side of that equation is teachers who fail students or give them a lower grade than they actually earned because they have a personal vendetta, i.e. race and/or assertiveness and the teacher is just not qualified to teach yet they are shielded because of a friend in high places!

I remember reading this headline in a story written by Brittney Cooper: America is criminalizing Black teachers: Atlanta’s cheating scandal and the racist underbelly of education reform. Our educational system stacks the deck against Black children — now we’re throwing their teachers in jail.

Yes the bell is ringing in the new school year and we all need to be aware of what is occurring on the grounds of our schools; from the bus stops, in classrooms to the front offices and every place in between.

If we were to think back over our educational experience and help to incorporate or not allow the practices that we either enjoyed or would never want another child to be entangled with the likes, then we must become a part of the complete educational experiences of ALL the children.

“No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friend’s or of thine own were. Any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind; and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee”.— For Whom the Bell Tolls a poem by John Donne “Lord when it’s been all said and done, how would I have taught the children?”

WE ALL WILL HAVE TO ANSWER THAT LAST BELL. Read full article America is Criminalizing Black teachers: Atlanta’s cheating scandal and the racist underbelly of education reform at:www. thewwestsidegazette.com

www.thewestsidegazette.com

BUSINESS

UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

August 20 - August 26, 2015 • Page 5

Westside Gazette Freeman - R.L. Macon Funeral Home "AN INSTITUTION WITH A SOUL"

RICHARD L. MACON LICENSED FUNERAL DIRECTOR NOTARY OWNER 738 DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. BLVD. POMPANO BEACH, FL 33060 (954) 946-5525

Johnnie Smith, Jr Jr..

Enrolled Agent Tax Professional F ranchise T ax P rofessional *T ax P reparation *Accounting *P ayroll *Tax Preparation *Payroll 3007 W W.. Commercial Blvd., Suite 204 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 Tel. (954) 730-2226 - Fax: (954) 730-2036 Cell (954) 303-5779 johnnie.smith@hrblock.com www .hrblock.com www.hrblock.com

STS TAX SERVICES INC. in association with

Specializing in White Flies

Discover high-tech tools that help with college savings Mobile apps and online gift registries are options for parents looking to boost their children’s college funds.

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(954) 525-1489 or E-mail wgaztte@thewestsidegazette.com

Saving for college is no longer as simple as stashing money in a savings account, says Marcos Cordero, CEO of Saving for College LLC, which publishes the website Savingforcollege.com.

With dozens of state-sponsored 529 plans, which are taxadvantaged college savings accounts, as well as other investment vehicles to choose from, families may find it helpful to turn to innovative tools to guide them through the college savings process.

“Families planning to save for college would be wise to take advantage of the high-tech tools available to them, especially when it comes to 529 plans,” Cordero says. “These accounts are complex and can be overwhelming for those just starting to invest.”

Mobile apps, “robo-advisors” and website tools can help parents and students make decisions about how much money to save and where they should put it. Here are several options for getting techy with college savings.

1. “Robo” investing: San Francisco-based FutureAdvisor unveiled its “Diplomas Without Debt” platform, a robo-advisor that aims to help investors with college savings, in May. The free, online service takes into consideration a person’s state of residence, income, savings goals and other factors to make recommendations about which vehicles make sense for the investor. It will recommend not only 529 plans, but other education savings vehicles, too, such as Coverdell Education Savings Accounts or Uniform Transfers to Minors Act accounts, and then helps the client open the account and manage the investment.

[Take a quiz to determine if you’re a college savings plan expert.]

“As a parent trying to understand what accounts are available to you and what their purposes are and what are the contribution limits, all those things stack together, and for each individual person, the combination of tools available could be different,” says Megan Graf, client service and operations specialist at FutureAdvisor.

Caveat emptor: The company works specifically with Fidelity and TD Ameritrade and can only manage 529 accounts with those plan managers. Joe Fahr, FutureAdvisor’s vice president of marketing, says the software will let users know there may be potential tax advantages for

Some websites allow parents to create college savings gift registries that friends, family and even strangers can contribute to. choosing a plan in their home state, even if it’s not managed

by Fidelity or TD Ameritrade, though it will also recommend a FutureAdvisor-managed plan.

2. Mobile apps: College savings apps vary from those that help students and parents predict college costs to those that teach children about spending and developing college goals.

In addition to the convenience factor, “apps can be helpful in the sense that they provide parents with budgets and goals, along with tools to help manage investments and add to college savings,” says Suzanne Shaffer, a Texasbased college coach for parents.

“The best apps offer projected college costs and help parents plan accordingly.”

[Discover 10 tools that offer a tailored estimate of college costs.]

The College Ahead app by Sallie Mae is one example of the free college savings apps available. It estimates costs based on what type of college the student plans to attend, whether he or she plans to live on or off campus and what type of degree he or she is planning to earn. It also includes a college scorecard to keep track of potential schools and a FAFSA roadmap. The apps 4College!, by asset manager Legg Mason, and College Saving Wiz both estimate college costs to help develop a monthly savings plan.

There are others aimed at children. Big Start by Ascensus, which manages Indiana’s CollegeChoice 529 plan, is designed for children up to age 6.

It allows the child to choose an avatar as part of an ebook and also includes activities about money and future career goals.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Page 6 • August 20 - August 26, 2015

AF amily T hat Prays T ogether, Stays T ogether Family That Together, Together

Church Directory

Worship T his and Every Sunday at the Church of Your Choice This

Bethel Missionary Baptist Church 2211 N.W. 7th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33061 Church: (954) 583-9368 Email: bethelmbchurchfl@att.net

Reverend Jimmy L. English PASTOR WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday Worship ............................................................. 8 a.m. & 11 a.m.

Sunday School ........................................................................... 9:30 a.m.

Wednesday (Prayer Service & Bible Study) ............................... 7:30 a.m.

Saturday (Women Bible Study) ............................................................ 8 a.m.

"Baptized Believers working together to do the will of God"

Faith United Church of Christ 6201 NW 57 Street Tamarac, FL 33319 954-721-1232 uccfaith@bellsouth.net faithbroward.org "Historically the First Church in the City of Tamarac!”

Rev. Dr. Ileana Bosenbark, Senior Pastor WEEKLY SERVICES & EVENTS

Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 1161 NW 29th Terr., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. 33311 (954) 581-0455 ● Fax: (954) 581-4350

WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday Worship Service .............................................................................. 8:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School ............................................................................................................... 10:00 a.m.

Communion Service (1st Sunday) ......................................................................... 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting ........................................................................... 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Bible Study ................................................................................... 7:00 p.m.

Saturday (2nd & 4th) Christian Growth & Orientation .................................. 8:30 a.m.

But be doers of the Word - James 1:22 nkjv - “A Safe Haven, and you can get to Heaven from here”

St Paul United Methodist Church

Rev. Dr. Jimmie L. Brown Senior Pastor

SERVICES

Sunday School .................................................................................... 10 a.m.

Sunday Worship ................................................................................ 11 a.m.

Bible Study (Tuesday) ....................................................... 11 a.m. & 7.p.m.

St. Ruth Missionary Baptist Church 145 NW 5th Ave., Dania Beach, FL 33004 (954) 922-2529

TUESDAY F.A.I.T.H. Academy for Adults (Spiritual Formation) - Office Complex ...... 10:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY

4699 West Oakland Park Blvd.

Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33313 Office: (954) 735-1500 Fax: (954) 735-1939 fbcpg@bellsouth.net

Rev. Dr. Derrick J. Hughes, Pastor SUNDAY SERVICES Worship Services .......................................................... 7:30 & 10:45 a.m.

Children's Church ........................................................ 7:30 & 10:45 a.m.

Communion (First Sunday) ......................................... 7:30 & 10:45 a.m.

New Members' Class .................................................................... 9:30 a.m.

Church School .............................................................................. 9:30 a.m.

Baptist Training Union (BTU) .................................................... 1:00 p.m.

Wednesday (Bible Study) ...................................... 11:15 a.m.. & 7:00 p.m.

Harris Chapel United Methodist Church Rev. Juana Jordan, M.Div E-MAIL:juana.jordan@flumc.org 2351 N.W. 26th Street Oakland Park, Florida 33311 Church Telephone: (954) 731-0520 Church Fax: (954) 731-6290

SERVICES Sunday Worship ................................................. 7:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School .............................................................................. 9:00 a.m.

Wednesday (Bible Study) ........................................... 11a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Mount Calvary Baptist Church

800 N.W. 8th Avenue Pompano Beach, Florida 33060 Church Telephone: (954) 943-2422 Church Fax: (954) 943-2186 E-mail Address: Mtcalvarypompano@bellsouth.net

Reverend Anthony Burrell, Pastor SCHEDULE OF SERVICES SUNDAY

New Member Orientation ........................... 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School ................................................ 9:30 a.m.

Worship Service ........................................ 11:00 a.m.

WEDNESDAY Prayer Meeting ............................................... 6:00 p.m.

Bible Study ..................................................... 7:00 p.m.

"Doing God's Business God's Way, With a Spirit of Excellence"

New Birth Baptist Church The Cathedral of Faith International Bishop Victor T. Curry, M.Min., D.Div. Senior Pastor/Teacher 2300 N.W. 135th Street Miami, Florida 33167

ORDER OF SERVICES Sunday Worship ........................................................ 7:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.

Sunday School ....................................................................................................... 9:30 a.m.

Tuesday (Bible Study) ......................................................................................... 6:45 p.m.

Wednesday (Bible Study) ............................................................................... 10:45 a.m.

1-800-254-NBBC * (305) 685-3700 (o) *(305) 685-0705 (f) www.newbirthbaptistmiami.org

New Mount Olive Baptist Church 400 N.W. 9th Ave., Ft. Lauderdale 33311 (954) 463-5126 ● Fax: (954) 525-9454 CHURCH OFFICE HOURS Monday - Friday 8:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Dr. Marcus D. Davidson, Senior Pastor WORSHIP SERVICES & BIBLE STUDY Sunday .................................................... 7:15 a.m. 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School ............................................................................ 10:00 a.m.

Wednesday Noonday Service .................................. 12:00-12:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting ............................................ 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Bible Study ................................................... 7:00 p.m.

Where the kingdom of God is increased through Fellowship.

Leadership, Ownership and Worship F.L.O.W. To Greatness!

NOTICE UNDER FICTITIOUS NAME LAW NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Dr. Marcus D. Davidson and Dr. Jimmie Bryant, officers, desiring to enage in business under the fictitous name of "CENTRAL FLORIDA FELLOWSHIP (CFF)" located in Broward County, Florida intend(s) to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations, Tallahassee, Florida and/or Clerk of the Circuit Court of Broward County, Florida.

Penny Foster 400 Northwest Ninth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311 August 20, 2015

“PRAYER IS THE ANSWER” 644-646 NW 13th Terrace Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311 (954) 462-5711(Ministry Office Line) (954) 462-8222(Pastor’s Direct Line) Email: wm_cme@bellsouth.net (Church} pastorCal50@yahoo.com (Pastor)

Rev. Cal Hopkins.

M.Div) Senior Pastor/Teacher

WORSHIP SERVICES Wednesday (NOON DAY PRAYER) ............................................. 12 -1 p.m.

Wednesday (PRAYER MEETING & BIBLE STUDY) .................... 645 p.m.

Sunday Worship Service ................................................................. 10 a.m.

Fifth Sunday Worhip Service ............................................................ 8 a.m.

Obituaries James C. Boyd Funeral Home

Aug.15 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jonny Jones, Sr. officiating.

FLOYD Funeral services for the late Missionary Cynthia Mae Floyd 58 were held Aug. 8 at Judah Worship Word Ministries International. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens (Central).

SHARPE Funeral services for the late Beatrice Elizabeth Sharpe90 were held Aug. 16 at Bethel Gospel Chapel with Elder Leon Robinson officiating.

JACSAINT Funeral services for the late M. Ledirey Jacsaint - 66 were held Aug. 15 at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel with Pasteur Henock Joseph officiating. Inhumation: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

MAULTSBY Funeral services for the late Arvella Elaine Cotton – Maultsby – 75 were held Aug. 15 at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel with Delores Gamble Staten officiating.

STOUTT Funeral services for the late Havert Steve Stoutt- 54 were held Aug. 15 at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel with Mr. Floyd Stoutt officiating.

McWhite's Funeral Home BRYANT Funeral services for the late Donna Marie Bryant – 39 were held Aug. 15 at The House of God with Dr. James Eubanks officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

SAMUEL Funeral services for the late Stanley Roland Samuel – 46 were held

The WITNESS of “The WILL” Sunday Worship Experiences ................................................................ 7:45 and 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School ................................................................................................................. 9:30 a.m.

Tuesday Night Triumph {Prayer, Praise and Power} Prayer Meeting ................................................................................................................ 7:00 p.m.

Bible Study ........................................................................................................................ 7:30 p.m.

We STRIVE to PROVIDE Ministries that matter TODAY to Whole Body of Christ, not only the Believers, but also for those stranded on the “Jericho Road”!

“Celebrating over 85 Years of FAITH and FAVOR! Come to the WILL ... We’ll show You the WAY: Jesus the Christ!”

Julian Bond — American Revolutionary Statement from Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, NC NAACP President, Political Action Committee Chair of National Board of NAACP

244 S.E. Second Avenue Deerfield Beach, Florida 33341 (954) 427-9407 EMAIL EMAIL:: Stpaulmeth@bellsouth.net WEBSITE WEBSITE:: saintpauldeerfield.com

Worship Service (Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday) ........................................................... 10 a.m.

F.A.I.T.H. Academy for Children (Spiritual Formation) K-12 ................................ 10 a.m.

First Baptist Church Piney Grove, Inc.

Williams Memorial CME

www.mtzionmissionarybapt.com

Dr. James B. Darling, Jr., Pastor/Teacher

SUNDAY

Worship & Arts Ministry Rehearsals (Open Auditions) - Sanctuary .............................. 7 p.m.

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette

WEBLEY Funeral services for the late Clovis Boys Webley – 59 were held Aug. 15 at First Baptist Church Piney Grove with Bishop T. Mitchell officiating.

Roy Mizell & Kurtz Funeral Home BUSH Funeral services for the late L y n n a r d Keith Bush – 60 were held Aug.14 at Roy Mizell & Kurtz Funeral Home.

DELOACH Funeral services for the late Sister Maglean DeLoach - 80 were held Aug11 at Springfield

One of Julian Bond’s heroes, Frederick Douglass, died at 77 in his Washington, D.C. home, cared for by a loving wife and comrade. NAACP Chair Emeritus Bond died at 75. He leaves his loving wife, Pam, at their Washington home, along with his blood and Movement children, like me, across the nation, who have learned much from his example on the Long March for Justice.

Douglass’ (1818-1895) Long March began in the dangerous moral fusion abolition movement that led, in 1861, to the U.S. Government’s organizing millions of Black and white families and soldiers to smash its sin and system of slavery in 1865.

After a short period of exciting moral fusion advances in the First Reconstruction, Douglass watched with increasing frustration as southern states allowed racism to terrorize the new African American citizens with impunity.

He joined the great cloud of anti-racism witnesses in 1895, and the next year the U.S. Government gave its full support to Jim Crow with its Plessy decision.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Audrey L. Beaufort was called home on Sunday, Aug. 16, 2015 Audrey had such a love for children, so much that Kids in Distress really didn’t have to pay her for the things she did, though she would NEVER tell them that! Here is a prime example of how she impacted the lives of young children: R.I.P Momma Audrey, I’ll forever love you.

Missionary Baptist Church with Dr. Pastor Calvin Hart officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Central Gardens.

JOHNSON Funeral services for the late Laura W. Johnson - 97 were held Aug. 15 at Roy Mizell & Kurtz Worship Center with Pastor James B. Darling, Jr., officiating.

Interment : Sunset Memorial Gardens.

ROGERS Funeral services for the late Willie B. Rogers - 87 were held Aug. 15 at Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church with Bishop Larry Jones officiating. Interment: Graceland South Memorial Park.

WALLACE Funeral services for the late Myrttle Hawthorne Wallace - 86 were held Aug. 15 at Fire Baptist & Truth #2 with Pastor Clarence Gallagher officiating.

Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Ever since I was a kid she always reminded me of the book The Giving Tree. She’d bend over backwards to make sure me, my sister, and all of her other kids were straight. She helped sculpt me into the intelligent young man I can call myself today! Aunt Audrey was a person that once you came in contact with her, you could never forget who she was; you would feel her presence miles away because of the uplifting energy she constantly gave off.

I still remember when I was young how I’d run and hide at conventions, yet she’d still find me and make me dance with her. If only I could have one last dance with her. I love you Ma Audrey, always and forever!

By Quantraveous Durden

www.thewestsidegazette.com

August 20, 2015 - August 26, 2015 • Page 7

Westside Gazette

Transportation and safety What about after

% Do you know what time school starts and

how your kids will get there? % If they’re riding the bus, do you know where the bus stop is and what time they’ll be picked up and dropped off? % Do you know where the school’s designated drop-off and pick-up area is? % Are there any regulations on bicycles or other vehicles, such as scooters? % +DYH \RX JRQH RYHU WUDIÀF VDIHW\ LQIRUPDWLRQ

stressing the importance of crossing at the crosswalk (never between parked cars or in front of the school bus), waiting for the bus to stop before approaching it, and understanding WUDIÀF VLJQDOV DQG VLJQV" % If your child walks or bikes to school, have you mapped out a safe route? Does your child understand that it’s never OK to accept rides, candy, or any other type of invitation from strangers?

Behavior intervention services The mission of the Behavior Intervention Program is to ensure that students are placed in the most appropriate setting, which is conducive to learning, maximizes academic achievement, growth and development.

The vision of the program is to ensure that all students are academically and socially successful. As such: % (YHQWV WKDW DUH Ă DJJHG through the Elementary Level Discipline Matrix should be recommended for the Behavior Intervention Program through WKH ([SXOVLRQ $EH\DQFH 2IĂ€FH (754) 321-1670.

PROMISE % Repeated incidents should be referred to the Behavior Intervention

Committee by completing the process outlined in the Behavior Intervention Handbook for traditional assignments.

Through the structures provided in this program, it is expected that students will acquire the necessary skills to enable them to optimally function in the traditional school setting.

School Based Committee Review Form In November 2013 the School Board of Broward County, Florida, approved a historic new Collaborative Agreement on School Discipline in an effort to close the schoolhouse to jailhouse pipeline; the Promise Program.

School

districts nationwide are rethinking their responses to minor offenses by students.

To reduce the loss of instructional time consistent and uniform corrective strategies have been agreed upon.

Figuring out where kids will go after school can be a challenge, especially if both parents work. Depending on a child’s age and maturity, you may need to arrange for after-school transportation and care.

It’s important for younger kids and preteens to have some sort of supervision from a responsible adult. If you can’t be there as soon as school’s out, ask a reliable, responsible relative, friend, or neighbor to help out. If they’re to be picked up after school, make sure your kids know where to meet you or another caregiver.

Although it might seem like kids who are approaching adolescence are becoming mature enough to start watching themselves after school, even kids as old as 11 or 12 may not be ready to be left alone.

If your kids or teens are home alone in the afternoons, it’s important to establish clear rules: % Set a time when they’re expected to arrive home from school. % Have them check in with you or a neighbor as soon as they get home. % Specify who, if anyone at all, is allowed in your home when you’re not there. % Make sure they know to never open the door for strangers. % Make sure they know what to do in an emergency.

school?

To ensure that kids are safe and entertained after school, look into after-school programs.

Some are run by private businesses; others are organized by the schools themselves, places of worship, police athletic leagues, YMCAs, community and youth centers, and parks and recreation departments.

Getting involved in after-school activities: % offers kids a productive alternative to watching TV or playing video games % provides some adult supervision when parents can’t be around after school % helps develop kids’ interests and talents % introduces kids to new people and helps them develop their social skills % gives kids a feeling of involvement % keeps kids out of trouble Be sure to look into the child-staff ratio at any after-school program (in other words, make sure that there are enough adults per child) and that the facilities are safe, indoors and out. And kids should know when and who will pick them up when school lets out and when the afterschool program ends.

Also, make sure after-school commitments allow kids enough time to complete school assignments. Keep an eye on their schedules to make sure there’s enough time for both schoolwork and home life.

Page 8 • August 20 - August 26, 2015

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette

Ascend Academy School RIÂżFLDOV SURSRVH DOWHUQDWLYH SURJUDPV WDLORUHG WR DGGUHVV special needs of their students

By Charles Moseley

Ascend Academy Charter School is a newly designed “state-of-the-artâ€? school facility located MR XLI 'MX] SJ 1EVKEXI ERH MW TVIWIRXP] MR XLI ½REP WXEKIW SJ GSRWXVYGXMSR 7GLSSP SJ½GMEPW EVI TVITEVMRK XS KVIIX ½VWX GPEWW SJ WXYHIRXW MR XMQI JSV 1SRHE] %YK STIRMRK HE] SJ &VS[EVH 'SYRX] 4YFPMG 7GLSSPW W]WXIQ 4MGXYVIH P V %WGIRH %GEHIQ] 'LEVXIV 7GLSSP 4VMRGMTEP :MRGI %PIWWM EPSRK [MXL WGLSSP %HQMRMWXVEXMZI 'SRWYPXERX (SRRMI 'EVXIV

There’s a popular slogan which states, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.�

From a philosophical perspective, most probably will agree, with the premise that no student should be given up on; however applying the notion that every student cannot only learn but thrive in the right environment is a daunting task at best.

According to school Principal Vince Alessi, at the Ascend Academy every student is entitled to be provided with a shot at success with the proper educational program.

He suggested on using a different approach to teaching; one which is designed to address the special needs of each student.

As a matter of fact his school plans to employ a different approach to educating students; one which is designed to adapt to the individual

Visit the school and its website Knowing the physical layout of the school building and grounds can help you connect with your child when you talk about the school day. It’s good WR NQRZ WKH ORFDWLRQ RI WKH PDLQ RIÀFH VFKRRO QXUVH FDIHWHULD J\P DWKOHWLF ÀHOGV SOD\JURXQGV auditorium, and special classes.

2Q WKH VFKRRO ZHEVLWH \RX FDQ ÀQG LQIRUPDWLRQ about: % the school calendar % staff contact information % upcoming events like class trips % testing dates Many teachers maintain their own websites that detail homework assignments, test dates, and classroom events and trips. Special resources for parents and students are also usually available on

needs of each student; one that doesn’t use a cookie cutter approach to learning, where students are forced to adapt to a system which does not focus on the needs of the individual student. Therein lies the difference between Ascend Academy and the traditional approach that public schools offer.

Donnie Carter has played an integral role in the development of the school. He serves currently as an administrative consultant for the Ascend Academy Charter School. His professional career includes working in the retail corporate arena as well as carving out a niche at the top administrative level in both the Dade and Broward County Public Schools systems for over 20 years. “One of our goals is to recognize and address the problems that Black inner city youth typically facesocializing improving their reading, giving them a high level of math, not just giving them 1, 2, 3..., we will give them the basics as well as training

in a trade-a mentoring program - all designed to help those students move forward because the graduation rate is under the table-the dropout rate is under the table,â€? said Carter. “We plan to work with students who have dropped out, students that were behind, students who VSHFLĂ€FDOO\ KDG SUREOHPV UHDGLQJ and having the component that gave them a career pathway A lot of schools have the component which addresses the educational side without having the career part. “We added the career part. We added counselors in to do more oneon-one counseling, who would address the important questions -’where are you, where are you supposed to be?’We also added mentoring as part of the whole thing, and that’s how we developed this school,â€? added Carter.

Ascend Academy Charter School Principal Vincent Alessi has a 10-

Continued on page 10

www.thewestsidegazette.com

August 20 - August 26, 2015 • Page 9

Westside Gazette

Need money for college?

If you don’t complete a FAFSA form, you’re missing out on FREE money, seriously!

The FAFSA is FREE to complete, easier than ever, takes less than 30 minutes and more people qualify than you think. Even if you believe your family doesn’t qualify, you should still apply to avoid leaving money on the table!

0DQ\ VRXUFHV RI IXQGLQJ DUH RQ D ÀUVW

FRPH ÀUVW VHUYHG EDVLV VR LW LV LPSRUWDQW WR apply as soon as possible.

Counselors and BRACE Advisors are also available to assist families with the application process, families who do not have a valid social security number and require DOWHUQDWLYH IRUPV RI ÀQDQFLDO DLG BCPS in partnership with Broward College is providing FinancialAid FAFSA /DEV ZLWK KDQGV RQ DVVLVWDQFH DW WKH following times and locations:

6WXGHQW ORDQV DQG ÀQDQFLDO DLG +RZ WR VDYH When it comes to student loans, ÀQDQFLDO DLG DQG KLJKHU HGXFDWLRQ everyone’s got an opinion. They just usually happen to be wrong.

When I was in high school, it drove me crazy to hear people say ing things like, “Oh, I’m not going to apply to Harvard. Even if I could get in, there’s no way I could afford the tuition.�

This is wrong. In fact, if Harvard accepted them, these very people would likely have to pay nothing.

But people don’t understand that.

Like naive car buyers, they truly believe that “tuition� is what people actually pay, and are predictably too intimidated to even apply.

My friends who didn’t apply to these colleges are perfect examples of people who do the job of rejecting themselves before anyone else can reject them. It’s sad, because many of the people who think this way simply don’t know any better.

In reality, almost nobody pays the full sticker price.

Hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarship money

+HUH¡V P\ VHFRQG EDFNJURXQG so you know where I’m coming from: , JUHZ XS LQ D PLGGOH FODVV IDPLO\ with immigrant parents and 3 other siblings, got into Stanford (where I completed my undergraduate and graduate studies), and secured hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships.

But even if I hadn’t won a single VFKRODUVKLS P\ ÀQDQFLDO DLG ZRXOG KDYH UHTXLUHG PH WR RQO\ SD\ VLQJOH digit thousands per year for a Stan ford education.

That’s why it’s aggravating to read people, especially anonymous online commenters, who persist in advising students to apply to com munity colleges and state univer VLWLHV IRU ÀQDQFLDO UHDVRQV 7KDW¡V nonsense. If you want to go to your local university to stay close to your family, or you prefer a smaller school, ÀQH %XW GRQ¡W EODPH LW RQ PRQH\ ,W¡V just not true.

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of you. Yes, “if you’re good enough�

LQFOXGHV LQFUHGLEO\ FRPSOH[ VRFLR economic connotations, but we can’t address them all here. I simply want to highlight the mistaken belief that money is holding students back from DWWHQGLQJ WRS WLHU FROOHJHV EHFDXVH of tuition costs. No. It’s not. If you’re JRRG HQRXJK WR JHW LQ WRS WLHU XQL YHUVLWLHV ZLOO WDNH FDUH RI \RX ÀQDQ cially.

Your college is not a techni cal school. It’s not only about how much money you’ll make once you graduate, like so many people try to claim. There are ineffable qualities to being surrounded by an extreme ly high caliber of peers. I’m not even VD\LQJ ´*R WR D WRS WLHU XQLYHUVLW\¾ (although I think you should). Just apply to them.

Tuition should be one of the last decisions you make. Stop thinking about the money up front. First, fo cus on getting into the best schools possible, whatever that means for you. Once you secure admission, ZRUU\ DERXW WKH ÀQDQFHV 5HPHP ber, if you’re good enough, the uni

versities want you there, and they have hefty treasure chests to ensure that you matriculate.

Harvard dean: â€œâ€Ś.Never allow a ODFN RI Ă€QDQFLDO UHVRXUFHV WR VWDQG LQ WKH ZD\ RI UHDFKLQJ IRU WKHLU Ă€UVW choice college‌â€?

The curious aversion to stu dent debt is at once irrational and understandable. To put it bluntly, I wouldn’t take on $40k of debt to attend Chico State. Actually, I wouldn’t pay $10 to go to Chico, and I would rather send my daughter WR D &KLQHVH SULVRQ WKDQ WKH \HDU gangbang that is ASU or UofA. But I would easily pay $40k to attend a WRS WLHU VFKRRO OLNH 6WDQIRUG +DU vard, or Yale because of the educa tion, caliber of peers, and opportuni ties available at schools like this.

Yet the constant drumbeat of “avoid student debt� produces some funny thinking.

Washington Post columnist Jay Mathews asked the provocative ques WLRQ 'R <RX .QRZ D +LJK $FKLHYLQJ Student Kept From College Because

0RQGD\ 7KXUVGD\ D P S P DQG )ULGD\ D P S P North Campus, 1000 Coconut Creek Blvd., Financial Aid 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH %OGJ 5P &RFRQXW &UHHN )/ 6RXWK &DPSXV 3LQHV %OYG )LQDQFLDO $LG 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH %OGJ Rm. 118, Pembroke Pines, FL

3LQHV &HQWHU 6KHULGDQ 6WUHHW )LQDQFLDO $LG 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH Bldg. 100, Pembroke Pines, FL 33331 Willis Holcombe Center, 111 E. Las Olas Blvd., Financial $LG 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH %OGJ )RUW Lauderdale, FL 33301 0LUDPDU :HVW &HQWHU 6 : $YH )LQDQFLDO $LG 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH )LUVW )ORRU 0LUDPDU )/ &HQWUDO &DPSXV 'DYLH 5G )LQDQFLDO $LG 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH %OGJ 5P % 'DYLH )/

of Money?. Not one person could provide an example.

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Page 10 • August 20 - August 26, 2015

seemingly innocent runny noses quickly turn into something more serious like strep throat, croup, whooping cough, or the flu. “Sometimes, a clear runny nose is just the first sign of something big, even without other symptoms,” she says.

“Why put other children at risk and risk your child getting worse? . . . [It’s] frustrating to take my daughter somewhere, in good health, and see children with snotty noses and coughing (not covering their mouths). If I want to purposefully expose my child to an illness, I’ll do it in the controlled setting in my doctor’s office,” she adds.

When to keep your

sick child

home from school When your child’s in preschool — and still building an immune system — it might seem like he’s susceptible to an endless stream of colds. Germs are just a part of preschool and day care that all moms have to deal with, readers say. But how sick should your child be before you decide to keep him home from school?

“How do you decide?”

Many parents say symptoms like fever, vomiting, or diarrhea make the decision to keep your child home from preschool clear-cut, and the United States Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) backs them up, advising parents to keep kids with flulike symptoms home for “at

least 24 hours after they no longer have a fever, or signs of a fever, without the use of fever-reducing medicines,” and “even if they are using antiviral medicines.”

But when symptoms are less prominent, parents are left to their own guidance. So when should a mildly sick child go to school, and when should he be

By Bob LaMendola, Florida Department of Health in Broward County

Summer vacation passes quickly, so parents are wise to start thinking about back-to-school immunizations for the kids.

Florida Department of Health (DOH) offices in South Florida are planning immunization efforts to help parents who do not take their children to family doctors, which is the best way to be vaccinated.

“Vaccines have helped us wipe out diseases that used to kill our children by the thousand.

But a few cases are starting to appear among unvaccinated children,” says Dr. Paula Thaqi, Director of DOH-Broward. “Parents who want to protect their children fully should have them immunized.”

Public schools open on August 24. Florida law says children cannot start school unless they received vaccinations that protect against nine contagious and potentially fatal childhood diseases. Every year, parents and school officials get headaches when children cannot be admitted because of missing vaccinations.

To help them, DOH gives free immunizations paid for by the federal Vaccines for Children program: DOH - Broward – All recommended immunizations are offered at DOH health centers. In addition, free shots will be given from August 10 to 25 at Lauderhill Mall, 1267 NW 40 Ave., including an outreach event and health fair on Saturday, August 22. For details, visit www.broward.floridahealth.gov/ programs-and-services/clinical-and-nutritionservices/immunizations/index.html or call (954) 467-4705.

DOH - Palm Beach – Immunizations are offered at DOH health centers and by a mobile van. For hours and locations, visit www.palmbeach.floridahealth.gov/programsand-services/clinical-and-nutrition-services/

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kept at home?

1. “It’s Wrong to Send a Mildly Sick Kid to School” Many moms who believe that sick kids should not be at school at all resent the parents who have sent them.

For instance, Jodi Z., who used to run an in-home day care, she says she has seen many

immunizations/index.html or call (561) 8404568.

DOH - Miami-Dade – Immunizations are offered at DOH health centers and in the community. For hours and locations, visit www.miamidade.floridahealth.gov/programsand-services/clinical-and-nutrition-services/ immunizations/index.html or call (786) 8450550.

Immunizations are especially important for children entering kindergarten and seventh grade, because different requirements begin at those grade levels. Vaccinations required for school include: Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough) – Four or five doses of DTaP vaccine is given to babies and preschoolers. One additional dose, Tdap, is given before seventh grade.

Polio – Three to five doses of vaccine is given to babies and pre-schoolers.

Measles, mumps, rubella (German measles) – Two doses of MMR vaccine is given to babies and pre-schoolers.

Chickenpox – Two doses of vaccine is given to babies and pre-schoolers. One additional dose is given before seventh grade. Among adults, the virus can reemerge and cause the painful skin condition called shingles.

Hepatitis B – Three doses of vaccine is given to babies.

In addition, federal health officials recommend several other immunizations not required for school. These include vaccines against flu (every year starting at age six months), rotavirus (three doses for babies), Haemophilus influenzae B (three to four doses for babies), pneumococcal disease (four doses for babies), hepatitis A (two doses for babies), human papilloma virus (three doses at age 11 or older) and meningococcal disease (two doses at age 11 or older).

2. “If Symptoms Are Minor, It’s OK” While moms like Jodi resent the frequency with which their children catch colds from their preschool classmates, other parents, say they understand that not every parent can make the choice to stay home each time the kids have a runny nose. Moreover, some believe children should be exposed to some germs to build their immune systems.

“It’s quite impossible to

shelter our children from all illnesses.” “If we had to keep children quarantine for every little illness they ever get, neither of us would have a job and we would be living on the street. Not everyone has family around to take care of the children.”

Jessica B. actually welcomes children with minor colds at her son’s preschool. “I would like my son’s immune system to be very [developed to protect] against these illnesses when he is older,” she explains.

Not Every Sniffle Is Contagious Other moms point out that not every sniffle or runny nose is a sign of a cold. Becky F. says her entire family gets stuffy noses all Winter because of the dry weather. “A runny nose and a bit of a cough, fine. Some kids have those all Winter, but really aren’t sick. The poor parents would get fired if they had to stay home for that,” she says.

Mom Nicky has similar sentiments, explaining that er has really bad her daughter nd asthma. “If she allergies and

stayed home every time she had sniffles or a cough, she would never go to school.”

3. “Each School Needs to Find a Happy Medium” Ultimately, moms on both sides of the debate agree that the severity of your preschooler’s sickness is the most important decision factor and that all parents should keep kids with symptoms like fever, vomiting, and rough breathing at home.

In reality, most moms do want to stay home and take care of a child who is really ill.

When parents are having a tough time making the judgment call as to whether to keep a sick child home from school, refer to the preschool provider’s sick policy.

Some parents believe that preschools should talk to parents and set a policy with regard to sick kids that is as agreeable to as many of the parents as possible. “If one or two parents don’t like the policy, they will either have to deal with it, or look elsewhere.”

High school graduation requirements There are two opƟons for students to earn their high school diploma, ACCEL (18-credits) or Standard (24-credits). For both opƟons, students must meet certain credit, grade point average (GPA) and assessment requirements to earn a high school diploma. A student’s graduaƟon requirements are determined by the cohort, which is the year the student first entered ninth grade, and the chosen graduaƟon opƟon.

Students should know their requirements and regularly monitor their progress toward earning a diploma. School counselors are available to assist students with planning for college and career readiness. Students can view an up-to-date report on their progress toward meeƟng graduaƟon requirements on Virtual Counselor.

Diploma DesignaƟons Beginning in the 2013/14 school year, students can earn two Diploma DesignaƟons on their high school diploma, each with its own requirements beyond the standard diploma: • The Scholar Diploma DesignaƟon aligns closely to the State University System’s requirements for admission into a Florida university. In addiƟon to meeƟng the standard high school diploma requirements, students must earn addiƟonal credits in accelerated, rigorous courses and pass addiƟonal End-of-Course (EOC) exams. The Diploma DesignaƟon requirements are outlined for each Class in the PresentaƟons and Charts below.

• The Merit DesignaƟon requires students to earn at least one industry cerƟficaƟon in addiƟon to their high school diploma.

Student Loans from page 9 Always, always apply to the best schools you could possibly get into.

Does a more expensive college mean it’s better?

It’s important to address whether “expensive university = better.”

My take: Not always, and “better” is different for everyone. But can we stop being politically correct for a minute? Yes, expensive universities are often better than less expensive schools. At Stanford, I met people I could have never otherwise met. I had access to resources

that few other colleges could equal, and experiences that few other colleges could provide. I learned an entirely different way of thinking.

The point is this: People assume that more expensive colleges are out of their reach, when in reality, if you can’t afford much money, you’re the very person who should be applying to expensive colleges.

READ ANYA KAMENETZ: HOW TO SAVE $23,000 IN STUDENT LOANS AT WWW.THEWESTSIDEGAZETTE.COM

Ascend Academy School from page 8 10-year track record as a principal in the BCPS system.

By his own admission he has worked a great deal in schools that have a substantial atrisk student population.

Alessi worked as an assistant principal at Deerfield Middle School for nearly 15 years, and most recently as the former principal of Cypress Run Alternative Center, for at risk kids in Pompano Beach.

Plans are also underway according which includes expanding the school to include Kindergarten through-eighth grade with a long term goal of building a facility in the future to make the location where the school is located, as a mini educational complex.

‘The City of Margate is redoing the road to dress the road up and do some things along there to support the

educational concept this place will become. The race right now is just to get the school started and then all the other stuff will follow.”

“Kids who were expelled kids who could not find a traditional setting that was agreeable for them to take charge of that school that for many students was their last chance. And I did it for five years.”

Alessi came out of retirement to take the reigns as principal of Ascend Academy. Alessi joined the effort which plans to open up additional schools which are dedicated to youth that have fallen behind and require additional credits in order to earn their high school diploma.

“We also have created a program to insure that they get a regular state certified

high school diploma and we will help them acquire all the skills they need to get into the job market. I started on June 1st and everyday has become more exciting,” said Alessi.

Construction workers have been working around the clock all summer in an effort as they move closer to putting on the finishing touches on the “state of art” facility located in Margate. If all goes according to plan the school’s construction will be finished and ready to go in time for opening day for Broward County’s public schools. This school officials hope will meet the deadline before Aug. 24, which marks the opening day of school.

That is when the stage will be officially set, all the “cast of characters” put in place, to begin what school officials hope will mark the beginning

of a long and successful run as the benchmark by which other schools are compared to here in South Florida.

A cursory review of the literature about the manner in which the school plans to distinguish a reputation built on academic excellence. Their slogan reads, “ASCEND AND EXCELL!” It goes on to state the following message on how they plan on providing students with the tools to succeed while attending their school and as they prepare to meet the challenges in life, in the future.

“Ascend Career Academy serves those students who require a different school educational challenge that is less focused on a traditional school environment and more aligned with individual student needs. Every student

who participates in this program will recognize and appreciate the value of personal dignity, self-discipline, and responsibility to succeed in the pursuit of a high school diploma that directs them on a successful career path.”

Ascend Academy recognizes that not all students will pursue their education beyond high school and for those students their curriculum offers a variety of career oriented programs which include; Homeland Security, Certified Transportation Services, Certified Protection Officer, Office Management.

Food & Customer Service Skills, Retail & Customer Service Skills, and Child Care & Education. The school also is developing relationships with local companies in various industries which require

employees with the skills learned through the vocational curriculum offered at Ascend Academy Charter School.

On the academic side each student will receive free tuition along with a free laptop, flexible learning schedule designed for each student to learn at their own pace. In addition they also will be eligible for internships and on-site mentoring which is a very important to student in need of positive role models in their lives.

For more information on what Ascend Academy Charter High School has to offer visit, call or email: 5251 Coconut Creek Parkway in Margate, Fla. Phone: (954) 978-4555 or www.ascendacademycharter. com.

Presently, enrollment is available.

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Read Our History in the pages of

August 20 - August 26, 2015 • Page 11 Westside Gazette BCPS receives $200,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation for Minority Success Academy Early Years the Westside Gazette Program

Milestones in African American Education

The Little Rock Nine pictured with Daisy Bates, the president of the Arkansas NAACP. 1837—Institute for Colored Youth founded by Richard Humphreys; later became Cheyney University.

1854—Ashmun Institute, the first school of higher learning for young Black men, founded by John Miller Dickey and his wife, Sarah Emlen Cresson; later (1866) renamed Lincoln University (Pa.) after President Abraham Lincoln.

1856—Wilberforce University, the first Black school of higher learning owned and operated by African Americans, founded by the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Its president, Daniel A. Payne, became the first African American University president in the country.

1869—Howard University’s Law School becomes the country’s first Black law school.

1876—Meharry Medical College, the first Black medical school in the U.S., founded by

African Americans, and stressed the practical application of knowledge. In 1896, George Washington Carver began teaching there as director of the department of agricultural research, gaining an international reputation for his agricultural advances.

1922—William Leo Hansberry teaches the first course in African civilization at an American university, at Howard University.

1944—Frederick Douglass Patterson establishes the United Negro College Fund to help support Black colleges and Black students.

1954—In the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kans., the Supreme Court rules unanimously that segregation in public schools in unconstitutional.

1957—President Dwight D. Eisenhower sends federal

the Freedman’s Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

1881—Spelman College, the first college for Black women in the U.S., founded by Sophia B. Packard and Harriet E. Giles.

1881—Booker T. Washington founds the Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute in Alabama. The school became one of the leading schools of higher learning for

troops to ensure integration of the all-white Central High School in Little Rock, Ark. The Little Rock Nine were the first Black students to attend the school.

1960—Black and white students form the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), dedicated to working against segregation and discrimination.

1962—James Meredith is the

first Black student to enroll at the University of Mississippi; on the day he enters the university, he is escorted by U.S. marshals.

1963—Despite Governor George Wallace physically blocking their way, Vivian Malone and James Hood register for classes at the University of Alabama.

1968—San Francisco State University becomes the first four-year college to establish a Black studies department.

1969—The Ford Foundation gives $1 million to Morgan State University, Howard University, and Yale University to help prepare faculty members to teach courses in African American studies.

2003—In Grutter v. Bollinger, the Supreme Court (5-4) upholds the University of Michigan Law School’s affirmative action policy, ruling that race can be one of many factors considered by colleges when selecting their students because it furthers “a compelling interest in obtaining the educational benefits that flow from a diverse student body.”

2007—The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education surveyed the nation’s highestranked research universities, the most selective liberal arts colleges, and the 50 flagship state universities to determine their levels of Black faculty.

Mount Holyoke College had the highest percentage of Black faculty of any of the 100 colleges and universities surveyed, with 9.7 percent.

According to the U.S. Dept. of Education, the 2007 national average was 5.4 percent.

2008 —The percentage of all 18- to 24-year-old African Americans enrolled in higher education increases to 32.6 percent from 21.2 percent in 1988.

Songfest 2015-featured guest artist Francine Ealey Murphy (Cont'd from FP) She is the Minister of Music at El Bethel Tabernacle Outreach Ministries, where she previously served under the late founder, Dr. Beatrice Ealey, and now under her beloved Pastor Elder Raymond Baker.

A truly phenomenal talent, Francine has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in the gospel music industry, including Pastor Shirley Caesar, Rev. John P. Kee, the late James Moore; Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Vickie Winans, Dr. Helen Baylor, The Williams Brothers, Johnny Sanders and Sherman Woods, just to name a few.

In 2002 she signed a recording contract with BMLE Records and released “I Repent” which she, Robert (Bobby) Spry, Sam Boone, Jr. and Grammy award winning engineer Julio Fererro coproduced. I Repent served as Francine’s international introduction.

Since that time, God has enlarged her territory and has

blessed her to tour Europe every year since 2004, performing before tens of thousands in France, Spain, Italy, Portugal and many other countries.

Murphy has also lent her powerful, raspy soprano vocals to numerous international music projects. In addition, she can be heard on Elder Jimmy Hicks latest hit CD Born Blessed where she serves as lead on the song Sweet Life.

God has richly blessed Francine and has anointed her for the nations. A noted actress, she has been featured in Michael Matthew’s gospel stage play “Love the One your're With" ; appeared in the hit gospel stage play “The Proverbs" written and produced by Moses Washington and is currently on tour with the Gospel Musical “Mahalia" written by Tom Stolz, directed by John Pryor, and produced by the M Ensemble.

Expanding her talents, Murphy is the president and CEO of her own production & record company, Girlygirl En-

tertainment. Most recently, she produced her first artist, Evangelist Eddie Mae Hood’s CD, entitled Let's Go Way Back In God. Murphy's sophomore music project was entitled Not Bitter, But I'm Better.

Murphy’s hit single Ya Pushing Me was released in 2012 and is on ITunes and Amazon and can be heard across the air waves. In 2013 Murphy was the artistic director for the One Hundred Voice Choir in Paris, France, where she toured Europe for six months.

She had the esteemed pleasure to sing with the American Singers in Rome, Italy on Easter Sunday. God has truly blessed her and prepared her to impact and change lives across the world.

The public is cordially invited to come. For additional information kindly contact Barbara Scruggs (954) 257-8019 or Barbara Hagan at (954) 383-0780.

Songfest 2015 will be held on Saturday, Aug. 22, at 6 p.m.

Mt. Hermon is located at 401 N.W. Seventh Terr. Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) Minority Success Academy Early Years Program is proud to have been selected for the $200,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. The grant will help connect and align early childhood providers with seven BCPS elementary schools – Broward Estates Elementary School, Dillard Elementary School, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Montessori Academy, Thurgood Marshall Elementary School, Rock Island Elementary School, Sunland Park Academy and Westwood Heights Elementary School.

Thanks to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the grant will provide for a multi-year program for early learning instruction, parent engagement and administrative leadership, within early childhood programs and the participating elementary schools.

The W.K. Kellogg Foundation grant will assist the District’s Minority Success Academy Early Years Program’s goal of improving educators, childcare providers and administrators’ effectiveness through professional development, which includes specialized courses to better understand race, culture and structural inequities to boost instruction, classroom practices and educational outcomes.

The Minority Success Academy Early Years Program is designed to improve literacy and math outcomes through arts, science, technology, engineering and mathematicsbased learning strategies. In addition, it aims to increase parental and family engagement

through workshops and cultural activities to support children’s academic and social progress.

“Our District can continue to impact the lives of almost 4,000 students to be successful both in and out of the classroom thanks to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s generous contribution. As a District, we look forward to this grant helping us further our goal of closing the achievement gap for our early learning students, increasing parental engagement and developing greater admini-

strative leadership, said Superintendent Robert W. Runcie.

“It is our objective to constantly think outside the box when it comes to teaching and learning, and this grant will assist us in serving our students.”

The grant is intended to align with President Barack Obama’s, My Brother’s Keeper Initiative, which encourages communities to implement a cradleto-college-and-career strategy for improving the lives of all young people to ensure that they can reach their full potential.

Medical issues: Have your kids received all necessary immunizations? · Have you filled out any forms that the school has sent home, such as emergency contact and health information forms? · Do the school nurse and teachers know about any medical conditions your child may have, particularly food allergies, asthma, diabetes, and any other conditions that may need to be managed during the school day? · Have you made arrangements with the school nurse to administer any medications your child might need? · Do the teachers know about any conditions that may affect how your child learns? For example, kids with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) should be seated in the front of the room, and a child with vision problems should sit near the board. ·

Page 12 • August 20 - August 26, 2015

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Foster care youth celebrated during 11th annual Transitional Independent Living Program graduation ceremony Mor udents rrecei ecei ve diplomas Moree than 100 st students eceive DAVIE, FL – Case managers, life coaches, caregivers, peers and community leaders gathered recently during the 11th Annual Broward County Transitional Independent Living (TIL) Program “Build On Your Dreams” graduation ceremony. More than 100 foster care youth joined together to walk the stage and celebrate graduating from middle school, high school, tech-nical school, college and masters programs.

“Regardless of a person’s background, graduation is a major achievement for any student,” said Monica King, executive director of ChildNet in Broward County. “We are incredibly proud to gather as their supporters to acknowledge and celebrate their success and bright future.”

ChildNet works with a broad group of service providers to ensure that youth are prepared to transition from foster care

skills and education necessary to become self-sufficient, live independently and maintain employment. In providing life skills training and offering financial, educational and social support, the children and young men and women in foster care learn to live independently and succeed.

Among the students who walked the stage was the evening’s key note speaker, 25-yearold Jabari Caldwell, who was in the foster care system for nearly 11 years. He graduated in 2015 with a master’s degree in clinical social work from Florida State University and is now employed as the assistant director of clinical services with Children of Inmates in MiamiDade County.

“It is an honor to speak on behalf of all the inspiring students who walked across this stage and to celebrate all that we have accomplished,” said

Jabari Caldwell and Samuel Mills

AGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER (AREA AGENCY ON AGING) OF BROWARD COUNTY, INC. PUBLIC HEARING The Aging and Disability Resource Center has calendared a Public Hearing on the 2016 Area Plan, to secure testimony concerning the Federal and State Programs funded through its aegis. The Hearing will begin at 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, August 27, 2015, at the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Broward County, located at 5300 Hiatus Road (two blocks south of Commercial Boulevard) in Sunrise. Interested parties are welcome to speak concerning senior programs and services available through the Aging and Disability Resource Center, to older persons residing in Broward County. Testimonies must be limited to three minutes, and the remarks must pertain only to issues related to the Aging and Disability Resource Center and the services provided by, or funded through the nonprofit entity. Social Security, Medicare, and/or Health Insurance Issues, will not be addressed at the hearing. A typed copy of each testimony would be appreciated. Persons, wishing to register to speak at the Public Hearing, may contact Linda Consalvo, at (954) 7459567.

Michelle Orr, Lauderdale Lakes; Kirk Brown and Kyandra Dorestin, Plantation. successfully. These services assist them with obtaining the

Caldwell. “In my life I have learned that everything can be taken away from you, but you will always have your education. And that is something we can and will always count on.”

LilCrystal Dernier, 23, who graduated from Florida A&M with a bachelor’s degree, also took a moment to reflect on her journey. “It does not matter where you start or where you come from,” said Dernier. “We are all proof that nothing is impossible.”

The TIL graduation ceremony was coordinated by a collaborative group of nonprofit agencies who support transitioning youth including ChildNet, the community-based care lead agency in Broward and Palm Beach Counties, the FLITE Center, HANDY, SOS Children’s Villages, Camelot Community Care, Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Community Services, Children’s Services Council of Broward County, Memorial Healthcare System and Henderson Behavioral Health.

For more information about ChildNet, call (954) 414-6000 or visit www.ChildNet.us and www.facebook.com/ChildNet.

Family literacy locations and qualifications Family Literacy and A dult Reading Adult Broward Community Schools Family Literacy Programs

In a Broward Community Schools Family Literacy Program, we provide opportunities for parents and children to learn together. Parents study for their GED® or learn English, and improve employability skills. While improving their skills, parents actively participate in supporting their children’s learning and success in school.

Please share with friends and family members who want to learn to read, improve their basic skills or earn their high school diploma.

To qualify for the Family Literacy Program, parents and guardians must… · Be 16 years old or older · Be enrolled in English or GED® classes · Participate in parenting skills training · Participate in activities to help their children learn For locations, click here.

For information and enrollment, please contact: Kimara Bedassie, Program Coordinator

Broward Community Schools Family Literacy Programs Phone: (954) 319-0644 Adult Reading Program This Adult Education program offers: · Small class size · Welcoming place to learn with other adults who have difficulty reading or understanding what they read · Opportunities to increase workforce skills In order to qualify, adults must: · Want to learn to read or improve their reading · Speak and understand English · Attend adult classes as scheduled Please share with friends and family members who want to learn to read or improve their reading skills. For more information, call (754) 321-2668. *Ask about our child education program for three and four-year-old children.

English for speakers of other langugaes (ESOL) Our English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes prepare you to communicate competently in English. Classes are offered from beginning through advanced levels, and are designed for the adult student.

As part of a language arts program, our ESOL classes are designed to develop all areas of language – speaking, listening comprehension, reading, writing, grammar, and pronunciation. Emphasis is on teaching learning practical language skills that are necessary at home, in the community, and on the job.

The length of the program is based upon your individual needs. As an open-entry/openexit program, you have the flexibility to enter and exit the program when your individual needs have been met.

You will progress in an atmosphere dedicated to adult learners with highly qualified tea-

IMPORTANT MESSAGE POSITIVE LIVING 18 (Sept 18-20, 2015) is now accepting applications. Positive Living is the nation’s largest and longest running HIV/AIDS conference in the United States, and it’s held right here in your backyard! If you would like an application to attend please e-mail PositiveLivingOASIS@gmail.com. Scholarships are available.

The Positive Living experience is the backbone for the Positive Living Conference each year. As we prepare for Positive Living 18 we are mindful of our audience. We like to refer to the audience as our family because our ultimate goal is to bring people together to share and expand their knowledge and their contacts. Positive Living provides a safe space to mingle, providing everyone who so desires an opportunity to engage in dialog and strategy building. While there is a heavy emphasis on advocacy training, we make sure to offer educational opportunities on treatment options, prevention services, the impact of the affordable healthcare act, and other pertinent information on many subjects by bringing together recognized experts in these fields with the people whose life’s experiences provides the evaluation of what is working and what is not working. It is all about empowerment and learning to build viable networks to strengthen each person’s ability to tackle HIV/AIDS both personally and collectively.

We welcome each of you to Positive Living 18 and the inviting shores of theEmerald Coast in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida. Our home base is once again the Ramada Plaza Beach Resort where General Manager Joe Guidry and his staff goes out of their way to make us feel at home. We look forward to a great conference, renewing old friendships, while making new friendships.

Special thank you to Butch McKay and OASIS staff for continuing the great conference.

chers who specialize in teaching ESOL. You will use a variety of learning materials, including computers and software to enhance your reading and speaking skills.

Convenient locations and class times: We offer classes at more than 60 locations throughout Broward County.

There are morning, afternoon, and evening classes available at different locations to meet the needs of adult students’ schedules. For locations and hours, click here.

Ready to get started? Just go to any of the following community schools, centers, or off site locations listed below during registration hours.

Need more information: Please call: (754) 321-7600.

Black students (Cont'd from FP) Ramey also noted that research suggests that teachers view Black boys’ misbehavior as the result of bad parenting and cultural deficiencies, and are less likely to attribute minority students’ acting up to a behavior disorder.

“White kids tend to get viewed as having ADHD, or having some sort of behavioral problem, while Black kids are viewed as being unruly and unwilling to learn,” said Ramey.

According to The Daily Beast, Black students with learning disabilities are three times more likely to be suspended than white students with learning disabilities. Ramey suggests that the current discipline structure of American schools is flawed.

“There’s been a real push toward school safety and there’s been a real push for schools to show they are being accountable,” he wrote. “But, any zerotolerance policy or mandatory top-down solutions might be undermining what would be otherwise good efforts at discipline, and not estab-lishing an environment based around all the options available.”

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Westside Gazette

August 20 - August 26, 2015 • Page 13

Back to school traffic safety tips

Broward County Risk ManagementBroward County Risk Management (BCRM), Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) all offer the following health and safety tips and encourages all to be cautious as students return to class on August 24.

The beginning of the school year is a time when children are at increased risk of transportationrelated injuries from pedestrian, bicycle, school bus, and motor vehicle crashes.

Traveling to and from school Review the basic rules with your youngster(s): Walking to School In neighborhoods with higher levels of traffic, consider starting a “walking school bus,” in which an adult accompanies a group of neighborhood children walking to school.

Make sure your child’s walk to a school is a safe route with well-trained adult crossing guards at every intersection.

Be realistic about your child’s pedestrian skills. Because small children are impulsive and less cautious around traffic, carefully consider whether or not your child is ready to walk to school without adult supervision.

If your child is young or is walking to new school, walk

make sure your child uses one at all times when in the bus. If your child’s school bus does not have lap/shoulder belts, encourage the school to buy or lease buses with lap/shoulder belts. · Wait for the bus to stop before approaching it from the curb. · Do not move around on the bus. · Check to see that no other traffic is coming before crossing the street. · Make sure to always remain in clear view of the bus driver. · Children should always board and exit the bus at designated locations that provide safe access to the bus or to the school building.

Tips for Motorists · All passengers should wear a seat belt and/or an age- and size-appropriate car safety seat or booster seat. · Do not text or talk on your cell phone while driving. · Slow down and obey all traffic laws and speed limits. · Be alert for school zones that have a reduced speed limit at designated times of the day. · Watch for school buses. Red flashing lights and an extended stop arm indicate the school bus is stopping to load or unload children. State law requires you to stop.

with them the first week to make sure they know the route and can do it safely.

Bright colored clothing will make your child more visible to drivers.

Bike · Always wear a bicycle helmet, no matter how short or long the ride. · Ride on the right, in the same direction as auto traffic. · Use appropriate hand signals. · Respect traffic lights and stop signs. · Wear bright color clothing to increase visibility. · Know the “rules of the road.”

School Bus · If your child’s school bus has lap/shoulder seat belts,

· Keep an eye out for

children walking in the street, especially where there are no sidewalks. · Be alert for children playing and gathering near bus stops and for those who may dart into the street without looking for traffic. · When backing out of a driveway or leaving a garage, watch for children walking or biking to school. · When driving in neighborhoods or school zones, watch for young people who may be in a hurry to get to or away from school and may not be thinking about getting there safely.

Tips for Parents · Be a good role model. Always buckle up in the car, al-

ways wear a helmet when biking, and always follow pedestrian safety rules. Don’t text or talk on your cell phone while driving. · Supervise young children as they are walking or biking to school or as they wait at the school bus stop. · Provide your children with bright clothing so motorists can easily see them. · If your child is under four years old and weighs less than 40 pounds, make sure the child is properly buckled up in a weight-appropriate child safety seat in the back seat. Children, ages 4 to 8, weighing over 40 pounds and measuring four feet nine inches or less should ride in a booster seat. In addition, safety experts advise that all children under the age of 12 should ride in the back seat. · Make sure that your teen driver understands and obeys all traffic laws. Discourage them from texting or talking on a cell phone while driving.

Tips for Students · Always buckle up when riding in a car. Be sure to remove your backpack before getting in the vehicle. Never buckle your safety belt with your backpack on. · Always ride in the back seat.

It’s the safest place for young people. · Always wear a helmet and follow traffic safety rules when riding your bike. · If you ride a school bus, learn and practice the safety rules for waiting at the bus stop, getting on and off the bus, and riding the bus. · Never wait for the school bus in the roadway. · If you walk to school, learn and practice the safety rules for pedestrians. It’s extremely important for you to use sidewalk when available, look left-rightleft when crossing the road, and always walk facing traffic. · Always cross at cross walks, obey all traffic signs, traffic lights and crossing guard instructi-ons. · Cross railroad tracks only at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings. Observe and obey all warning signs and sig-nals. · Do not walk, run or ride

your bicycle down railroad tracks. It’s illegal and dangerous. · Teen drivers should avoid speeding and distractions while driving, such as texting, talking on cell phones, eating and adjusting the radio. Teens are also reminded never to overload their vehicle; everyone riding in a vehicle must use a safety belt. · Be a good role model for your younger brothers, sisters and friends, and help them learn and follow vehicle safety rules.

BrightStar Credit Union continues its commitment to educating children about financial literacy

By Dustin Jacobs, Marketing Manager, BrightStar Credit Union We have all come to learn that financial literacy is a skill just as important as reading and math. It’s critical to teach children how to save money, balance a checkbook, manage debt and be a smart consumer.

With that in mind, BrightStar Credit Union has paired up with Broward County Public Schools to sponsor a free financial literacy program called Biz Kid$.

An initiative geared towards children 9-16 years old, Biz Kid$ includes a TV series, free fi-

nancial literacy curriculum, outreach activities, a website and social media presence with the emphasis on helping children develop positive financial health. The Emmy award-winning show on PBS covers topics such as cash and credit, budgeting, saving, entrepreneurship and how to be a smart consumer.

One of the largest credit unions in South Florida currently with 54,000 members, BrightStar Credit Union has a free online financial literacy website called BrightStarU.org.

The interactive web site provides extensive free financial

information at a variety of ageappropriate levels for kids, middle school students, high school students, college students, adults, parents and teachers—plus there’s a section in Spanish. Because of BrightStar Credit Union’s 65year re-lationship with Broward Schools, teachers and students will enjoy access to BrightStarU.com as well.

The 69-year old credit union also has a successful track record of providing financial literacy education to children and teens in Broward County by sponsoring programs such as CU@School at a number of Broward County schools. The program, the first of its kind in Florida, coordinates in-school credit unions at elementary, middle and high schools. Aside from the in-school credit union branches, CU@School includes financial literacy presentations and career day participation.

Students are encouraged to save by depositing money into a free checking account. Elementary school students can deposit as little as a penny into their accounts while high school students can also work as tellers in the student-run credit unions.

Skills learned through the BrightStarU.com website and the CU@School program, such as writing a check, balancing a checkbook, saving money, building good credit and the importance of a good credit score, can be shared at home to further educate parents about financial literacy.

Page 14 • August 20 - August 26, 2015

A parent’s guide to packing healthy back-to-school lunches Tips for packing a delicious and nutritious midday meal for kids.

Ask your children which fruits and vegetables they would enjoy eating for lunch.

By Kadakkal Radhakrishnan, M.D. As summer vacation winds down in August, millions of children nationwide are gearing up to head back to school.

Among the many things parents worry about – such as immunizations, sports physicals, school supplies and playground safety – packing a healthy, nutritious lunch (that kids will actually eat!) is at the top of the list.

Combating Childhood Obesity: It Begins With School Lunches With the rising tide of obesity in the nation over the last 30 years and subsequent rise in related morbidities, it’s not only extremely important that children eat healthy, balanced meals throughout the day – it’s imperative. And eating a nutritious school lunch is key to helping minimize the child obesity epidemic. There’s clear evidence that inception of good eating habits in childhood not only leads to better eating habits as adults, but also less risk of obesity. Because of this, it’s critical that parents stay involved with the nutritional choices children make as they grow into their teens.

LEGAL NOTICES PUBLICATION OF BID SOLICITATIONS Broward County Board of County Commissioners is soliciting bids for a variety of goods and services, construction and architectural/engineering services. Interested bidders are requested to view and download the notifications of bid documents via the Broward County Purchasing website at: www.broward.org/ purchasing.

August 6, 13, 20, 27, 2015

NOTICE OF PUBLIC FORUM The Public Forum of The Housing Authority of the City of Fort Lauderdale will be held at 6:00 PM, Thursday, October 8, 2015, at the Sailboat Bend Apartments Community Room, 425 SW 4 Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The Public Forum is open to all residents of The Housing Authority of the City of Fort Lauderdale and the general public.

This forum gives the opportunity to issue comments and/or recommendations on the Agency’s Annual Plan for fiscal year 2016 and the Capital Fund Program 5-year - Action Plan 2016 2020.

Copies of these plans are available for review at the Central Office of the Housing Authority located at 437 SW 4 Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315, the Robert P. Kelley Building located at 500 W Sunrise Blvd. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33311 and also at www.hacfl.com. Plan supporting documents are available at the Robert P. Kelley Building.

NOTE: If any person decides to appeal any decision made with respect to any matter considered at this public forum, he/she will need a record of the proceedings, and such purposes he/she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is based.

Anyone needing auxiliary services to assist in participation at the meeting, please contact the Housing Authority at (954) 525-6444, ext. 2105 two (2) days prior to the meeting.

The National School Lunch Program provides guidelines regarding the nutritional content of meals offered through schools, including the caloric content, fat content and micronutrients such as calcium, iron and vitamin A. These guidelines are broad, and many foods that may be considered unhealthy still might fit into these guidelines. However, the new guidelines from 2009 suggest increased portions of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

A Team Effort: Involve Your Children in the Meal-Plan Process The first step to packing nutritious lunches is to sit down with your children and review the weekly lunch menu that’s offered at their school. I have personally done this with my son, so I know from experience it works well. This strategy gives parents a great opportunity to discuss the benefits of different meal options and why certain foods may be healthier than others. Plus, involving the child in any decision-making process typically leads to better outcomes and acceptance – and the meal-plan process is no exception.

Ideally, packing your children’s lunches would be the best way to ensure they eat a balanced lunch filled with one full serving or more of fruits and vegetables. Rotating food options from a prior agreed-upon plan that was formulated with your kids can help decrease boredom and ensure they actually eat the packed lunch. You can also ask your children which fruits and vegetables they would enjoy eating for lunch; however, you may have to use your ingenuity to make the healthy foods they choose more acceptable or kid-friendly.

For example, a sliced up apple may be much more appealing than a whole one. Although kids are notorious for begging for delicious (and sugar-loaded) drinks with their meals, the ideal beverage choices for lunch are water or low-fat, unflavored milk. If you need to pack juice, choose a 4 to 6 ounce bottle of 100-percent juice.

If your child is a grazer, meaning he or she eats small portions often, or if you are unable to pack an appropriate lunch, packing a snack can help meet your child’s nutritional and caloric goal. Since children are active, growing and can go long hours without eating at school, snacks — like a sandwich, some trail mix or a whole food-based snack bar — can be ideal options in order to provide some extra supplementary nutrition. Just make sure to follow the snack guidelines set by your child’s school! And for those children who opt to eat a schooloffered lunch, getting to know

Westside Gazette the weekly menu and discussing the meal options with your child will help ensure a more nourishing school meal. It’s also important to note that if your child has concerns for food allergies, it’s crucial to alert the school authorities ahead of time.

A letter from your physician outlining your child’s food allergies is the best way to ensure adequate support from the school.

Eating Habits Start Early: Parents, Practice What You Preach Not only do children establish their eating habits early on in their lives, often around age 6, but they also mirror their parents in a variety of habits, which is why it’s critical for parents themselves to practice healthy eating and meal-planning techniques at home. With the new school year starting

www.thewestsidegazette.com up, it’s the perfect time to reflect back on your eating habits as parents to ensure better health for yourself and your entire family. This reflection process can be an incredible teaching moment for kids, and it’s a great way to engage with your child on the topics of optimal nutrition, food moderation, portion size and overall longterm health.

When it comes to devising a game-plan for healthy, nutri-

tious school lunches don’t wait!

The sooner you start planning, the better. You should also make sure to pencil in your pediatrician for a well-child visit to discuss concerns or questions regarding school meals or to enlist the help of a pediatric dietitian who can provide indepth information regarding meal plans and healthy options.

EDUCATION MATTERS Every Child Deserves a Chance to Succeed.

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Choosing child care Choosing child care is one of the most important decisions families make, but all too often they must rely on word-of-mouth and not every program meets our children’s needs. It is important to ask as many questions as you can before you place your child in the program. Do so in advance, enabling you to check out other programs, which might also be picking up at the school. The school base program might not necessarily meet your family’s needs.

What kind of questions should you ask when you arrive? Many questions are answered in the parent handbook provided by the program. Sometimes it is important to hear the answers from the company providing the service. Below are a few examples to help guide you in the selection of a program, and of course please add more, which might apply to your needs: 1. What is the cost of the program?

2. How many days does this cover?

3. Do you provide the snack or do we?

4. What are the payment methods? Credit cards, money orders, checks, cash, etc.

5. Is the program open on early release days?

6. What about teacher planning days? Holidays and breaks?

Summer Camp?

7. What do I do if my child does not come to school because of a dental appointment, may they come to after care?

8. If I leave the program, do I receive a refund? How much?

How do I need to inform you, phone call, in person, or in writing?

9. If I cannot reach the program what number do I call? Who should I ask to speak with?

10. What happens if I arrive late?

11. What happens if I don’t pay on time?

12. Homework is really important. What can you do to assure my child is completing his homework?

13. May I telephone to check on my child? May I visit the program?

14. What types of financial assistance do you offer?

15. What kind of training does your staff have? Do you have a high turnover of staff?

16. How many children are in a group?

17. Tell me about some of the activities you provide.

18. Can I have a schedule of what you do each week in the program?

19. If I have a problem, whom do I speak with? If it is not resolved, whom do I speak with next?

20. Do the children take field trips or do field trips come to the program?

21. What do you do if a child has an accident?

22. What do you do if a child is harassing a child?

23. What do you do if an emergency occurs and you have to evacuate the building? Where do you go?

24. How do you handle staff behavior problems?

25. Ask the program why they think your child should attend their program.

26. Who oversees the Quality of the program?

27. Are you Child Care Licensed?

About School Board Operated Programs

Westside Gazette 1. Can I pay for my child’s child care weekly? Fees are usually paid one month in advance. Parents of children in School Board operated programs can pay through the estore. Check with you provider for special payment arrangements.

2. Will my child have time to complete his homework in after care? Yes, all programs provide homework assistance time.

3. If my child takes medication, will the program give it to him? After care programs do dispense medications once all of the proper paperwork has been completed and personnel has been trained.

4. Can my child attend the after care program if he attends a private school?

No, the programs are for students that are enrolled at that school site. However, with principal permission a child may attend a program other than their home school.

5. How do I get a scholarship or reduced rate for my children? You need to contact the Program Supervisor for information on reduced rates.

6. Does the program provide care on Early Release days? Yes, until 6 p.m., or program close time.

7. How do I register my children for after care? Each school handles its own registration. Contact your child’s school for further information.

8. What will my children do during their time in after care? Your child will have the opportunity to have a snack, do their homework, with assistance and then participate in several scheduled activities.

These will include an academic enhancement, a technology session, creative play or dramatic arts, outdoor activity, to enhance fitness and a free choice.

Your child might also learn a foreign language depending on

August 20 - August 26, 2015 • Page 15

the school schedule.

9. How many children are in a group? The adult to child ratio that will be maintained at all times will be one adult directly caring for no more than 20 children in grades K-5. There is one adult to every 10 children in our four-year-old groups.

10. Will my child be asked to leave the program if he or she does not behave? Every program has a behavior plan that is similar to the school’s discipline plan. All children are expected to follow the district’s Code of Student Conduct policy. Children’s behavior will be guided with positive reinforcement; however, there are consequences for inappropriate behaviors. You will be notified of any misbehavior that warrants a write up. Children may be exited from the program if they present a danger to themselves or others.

11. Enrollment Procedures -- All children must be registered in the program before attending. Registration forms need to be completed each year for each child.

Registration fee is $25 per family with a family being one child or more. Private providers, per contract, may charge up to 20 percent more than the School Board of Broward County programs.

Waiting lists might occur when groups have reached the ratio capacity. As soon as new staff is in place, parents will be contacted.

12. Withdrawal Procedures -- If a student is absent for nine days without program notification, the student will be withdrawn and no refund given. If parent withdraws their child from the program, a refund will be given for any unused days in the payment period. Children moving from one school to another during the school year will need to be registered (if space is available in the program) at the new location and pay a new registration fee.

As per School Board Policy 3411 and the Constitution of the State of Florida, Article VII, Section 10, ALL PAYMENTS MUST

BE MADE IN ADVANCE PRIOR TO THE START OF THE ATTENDANCE PERIOD. IF PAYMENT IS NOT PAID

BY PAYABLE DATE, CHILD (REN) WILL BE WITHDRAWN FROM THE PROGRAM AND A RE-REGISTRATION FEE WILL NEED TO BE PAID BEFORE RE-ENTERING THE PROGRAM. Please see signs at PICK UP table for collection dates. A late pick up fee will be charged if child is not picked up by program close. This must be paid before next payment period.

If you qualify for Free or Reduced Meals, and there is no adult at home to watch your child after school, you might qualify for a partial fee waiver. Please see your program Supervisor for more details.

13. Special Needs -- Our Before and After School Child Care (BASCC) programs are not a part of the educational process; it is a service for parents/ guardians and children. Opportunities that are available to typical students and their parents must be open to Students with Special Needs (SSN) and their parents, and vice versa. It is the responsibility of the schools, the Providers, and The School Board of Broward County to inform parents about BASCC opportunities. After school child care programs are not funded by the School District. These programs are operated by a private provider or by the school itself.

However, regardless of the provider, each child must be assessed individually to determine if the program can meet his/her special needs, and is not a financial hardship.

Page 16 â&#x20AC;˘ August 20 - August 26, 2015

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Westside Gazette

Artist Yvette Michele Booth

Research by Destaneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Henry Harriet Powers is one of the best-known southern African American quilt makers, even though only two of her quilts, both of which she made after the Civil War (1861-65), survive today. One is part of the National Museum of American History collection at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. The second quilt is in the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, Mass . The cotton quilts consist of numerous pictorial squares depicting biblical scenes and celestial phenomena.

They were constructed through appliquĂŠ and piecework and were hand and machine stitched.

SOURCE: http://www.georgiaencyclopedia.org

Carlos echoes my thoughts, â&#x20AC;&#x153;As the dazzling Sunrise, FL - In the spring of 2013, Carlos Aleman made a short trip to Kyoto during cherry blossom week. colors mock and turn away in dismissive pride, I He returned home to Sunrise, FL and recorded his im- continue to observe, almost as an anthropologist wouldâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; studying a strange facet of humanity in pressions of Japan as drawings and paintings. hopes of better understanding myself as well as Often working in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;dark chocolateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; acrylic paints, he in- ÂżQGLQJ VRPHWKLQJ EHQHÂżFLDO WR XV DOO ,ÂśYH IRXQG D tegrated manga, anime, geisha, maiko and samurai into a rich visual language for magical realism, concepZKLPVLFDO VW\OH RI SRS VXUUHDOLVP UDQJLQJ IURP WKH ÂżQHO\ tual realism and pop surrealism embodied by the feminine form.â&#x20AC;? rendered to the loose and experimental

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Âł1RW RQO\ DP , RSHQ WR H[SHULHQFH EXW ÂżQG WKH dissimilar, exotic, strange and foreign more appealing and actually feel more comfortable around people who are different from me. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not sure why this is, but I felt this way when I was in Shanghai, staring into the eyes of young people that were fanatical about anything western, and again in Kyoto crossing the streets with the throng of Japanese. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve felt this way much of my life in South Florida where in a single day you can interact with someone of Irish, Korean and Jamaican descent, as well as Hispanics that come in every size, shape and color.â&#x20AC;?

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dark chocolate to me represents the good stuffâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; the nutritious, antioxidant rich form of the deliciousness derived from the seed of a cocoa treeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the best of all chocolates. A Dark Chocolate Japan, for instance, is the Japan westerners have fallen in love with, from Godzilla movies to anime and technology. Although art and media can be seen as frivolous, when one culture falls in love with another, it is a testament that dark chocolate exists and we can love everything that is strange, different and exoticâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the cartoons we grew up with, the ancient stories of Samurai and the Geisha, kokeshi dolls and kimonos we have admired from afar. But no matter where we are, even if we see the less than ideal, the sugary cheap chocRODWH GHÂżOLQJ RXU H[LVWHQFH GDUN FKRFRODWH DOVR H[LVWV ,W does. It does.â&#x20AC;?

He fell in love with Asian art while visiting a Japanese museum in 1995. This journey also sparked an interest in eastern philosophy. He used these philosophies to understand more of himself. It provided a baseline of opportunity and opened him for more experiences.

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Carlos AlemĂĄnâ&#x20AC;? shares an expressionist journey of his love of art, culture and differences that bind us all togethHU +LV MRXUQH\ RI GDUN FKRFRODWH DUW LV D UHĂ&#x20AC;HFWLRQ RI DOO RI KLV HPRWLRQV DQG H[SHULHQFHV DV DQ DUWLVW OHDUQLQJ WR ÂżQG his voice in the art world. He shares this thought from the following excerpt from his book titled, The Dark Chocolate Art of C. D. Aleman

Email us your best young artist ages 6 to 12 and we will pick a lucky winner to showcase in an upcoming edition. Please include the following: Wrapped Up in Tentacles,Shironuri No. 1

â&#x20AC;˘Photo â&#x20AC;˘Name â&#x20AC;˘Age â&#x20AC;˘Grade â&#x20AC;˘School

To learn more about Carlos and his work visit the The Dark Chocolate Art : Free Admission artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website: www.carlosaleman.com Friday, August 28, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Carlos Invites you to be a part of the experience.

I learned of Carlosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; work this past April and was drawn Sunrise Civic Center 10610 W Oakland Park Blvd, send email to to the grandeur of the spirit he captured in each one of his Dress casual or wear kimono or cosplay. Take lots Sunrise, FL 33351 arts@TheWestsideGazette.com of pictures and bring friends. subjects.

ART on AIDS & HIV

The Florida Arts License Plate Program was created by the Legislature in 1994. Funds collected through the sale of these specialty plates are distributed to the counties where the plates are sold and are used to support arts organizations, programs, and activities within that county.

South Florida has Highest AIDS Rates in USA. Artist of all ages have a message to share in helping this epidemic that is affecting our community.

SCRUBBING OUT THE STIGMA by

joining the World AIDS Museum & Educational Center and Artist Yvette Michele by sharing the art in Social Media.

Taking medicine most often creates side affects.

The artist experienced a side effect that caused his stomach to pouch outwards. He had to take another medicine intravenously for his stomach.

The art is created from the needles he uses to take the medicine. â&#x20AC;&#x153;GET TESTEDâ&#x20AC;? This is the Message from the artist.

AUG 20 25

You can view this work of art and others at the World AIDS Museum and Educational center in Wilton Manors, Florida.

Arts Beat Calendar Highlights

Inclusion to Arts Beat Calendar Call for advertising opportunities at 954-525-1489

6 6-9:00 pm Icons of Warhol, Haring & Friends:Forre & Co Fine Art Gallery Opening reception C Cey Adams Guest Lecturer 1007 E. Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 954-463-0011 6 6:30 pm Every 4th Tuesday of the month musicians, singers, poets, and performers take the stage at ArtServe for Open Mic Tuesdays. Sign up or come out and enjoy some awesome talent. Hosted a

by SOSOSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chris Monteleone. Doors open at 6:30 for sign-up. Performances begin at 7:30. http://www.artserve.org Photography Credits: The Dark Chocolate Art provided by Carlos Aleman

This

Are you an Artist or an Arts Organization?

Advertise your programs/events with us.

Ad could be yours !

Press Releases send to arts@thewestsidegazette.com Advertising Call 954-525-1489

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Westside Gazette

August 20 - August 26, 2015 • Page 17

Adult High School Diploma Whether you’ve recently left school or have been out for awhile, here’s a great option for you if you only need a few more credits to graduate: the Adult High School Diploma Program.

You will complete your high school diploma in an environment designed especially for adult learners with teachers who specialize in working with adults. Our open entry/open exit admittance policies allow you to complete the classes you need at your own pace.

To further enhance and fasttrack your learning, we offer you the flexibility to combine your in-class sessions with 24/7 web access to your subject (English, Math, Science, Social Studies) software.

Requirements: To be admitted, you must be at least 16 years old and officially withdrawn from a high school. To graduate, you need a total of 24 credits, a cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale, and a passing grade on the state-mandated assessment FCAT (Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test) or HSCT (High School Competency Test). NOTE: HSCT is no longer administered.

Cost: $30 per semester

Activity Fee: A $10 Student Activity Fee is charged one time per person, per campus, per school year. This fee is used to offset the costs of providing school security and campus-related activities.

Assessment Fee: A $10 Assessment (testing) Fee for ABE/GED and ESOL testing is charged once every two years.

Ready to get started? Just visit any of the locations listed below during registration hours. You’ll meet with a guidance counselor who will help you determine your options and get you on your way to achieving your goals. See below for locations offering the Adult High School Diploma.

Need more information: Please call: (754) 3217600 or email: Yolanda McNeill, guidance director yolanda.e.mcneill@browardschools.com Coral Springs Middle Community School, 10300 W. Wiles Rd., Coral Springs; (754) 3223170 Cooper City High Community School, 9401 Stirling Rd., Cooper City; (754) 3230300 Crystal Lake Middle Community School, 3551 N.E.

Third Ave., Pompano Beach; (754) 322-3170 Dave Thomas Educational Center, 4690 Coconut Creek Pkwy., Coconut Creek; (754) 321-6800 Dillard High Community School, 2501 N.W. 11 St., Fort Lauderdale; (754) 322-0900 Fort Lauderdale High Community School, 1600 N.E. Fourth Ave., Fort Lauderdale; (754) 322-1200 Hallandale Adult Community Center, 1000 S.W. Third St., Hallandale Beach; (754) 321-7056 Hollywood Hills High Community School, 5400 Stirling Rd., Hollywood; (754) 323-1150 Miramar High Community, 3601 S.W. 89 Ave., Miramar; (754) 323-1450, Room 109/112 Northeast High Community, 700 N.E. 56 St. Oakland Park; (754) 322-1650 Nova Community School, 3600 College Ave., Davie; (754) 323-1741 Piper High Community, 8000 N.W. 44 St., Sunrise; (754) 322-1800 Plantation High Community School, 6901 N.W. 16 St,

Bond praised for unselfish devotion to human rights

(Cont'd from FP) Denise Rolark Barnes, Chairperson of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and publisher of The Washington Informer, said: On behalf of the members of the National Newspaper Publishers Association – the Black Press of America – we are extremely saddened to learn of the recent death of Julian Bond, a stalwart of the Civil and Human Rights Movement. His lifelong dedication and commitment to political and economic empowerment, journalistic diversity and integrity, and educational equality served as a beacon for others to follow. His presence and voice will be sorely missed, but his words remain true for the NNPA: ‘Good things don’t come to those who wait.

They come to those who agitate!’

Julian Bond, thank you. Now may you rest in peace!”

NNPA President and CEO Benjamin F. Chavis said, “On behalf of the National Newspapers Publishers Association (NNPA), we mourn the passing of civil rights leader Julian Bond. The enduring impact of Bond’s legacy was his long-term dedication to fight for freedom, justice and equality. As an effective chairman of the NAACP, cofounder of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), Georgia State Senator, college professor and columnist for the NNPA, Julian Bond was a gallant warrior who championed the interests of Black America.”

Horace Julian Bond was born Jan. 14, 1940, in Nashville, Tenn. His father, Horace Mann Bond, was a prominent educator, serving as president of Fort Valley State University in Georgia and the first Black president of Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, his alma mater.

During his time with SNCC, Julian Bond protested against segregation of public facilities in Georgia and was arrested during a sit-in at Atlanta’s City Hall.

Later, as a member of the Georgia House of Representatives, he was a vocal critic of the Vietnam War. When the white members of the House refused to seat him because of his opposition to the war, Bond took his case to the United States Supreme Court where he won a unanimous ruling in 1966, saying his freedom of speech had been violated and ordering the legislature to seat him. Bond served in the Georgia’s House for a decade and went on to serve six terms in the state senate.

He ran for the United States House of Representatives, but lost a bitter race to John Lewis, a former colleague who had been chairman of SNCC. Bond was elected as chairman of the board of the NAACP in 1998 and served for 11 years.

Bond was not only a consistent agent for civil rights; he was also a writer, poet, author and professor at a number of colleges and universities, including American University in Washington, D.C., the University of Pennsylvania, Harvard Uni-

versity and the University of Virginia.

Bond also narrated Eyes on the Prize, a documentary on the Civil Rights Movement that was nominated for an Academy Award in 1988.

Mary Frances Berry, a history professor at the University of Pennsylvania and former chair of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, recalled Bond challenging the credentials of the all-white Georgia delegation at the 1968 Democratic convention in Chicago and becoming the first African American nominated for vice president by a major party.

“It was on TV. It was all over the place and people who had not ever seen Julian saw this very bright, funny guy and then we had to point out that he was too young for the nomination,” Berry said chuckling. “That sort of thing sticks in everybody’s mind. When people saw him and who this guy was, it was like a meteor went across the sky. In a way, it was like, years later, when people first saw Barack Obama.

“Here’s this personable guy with a twinkle in his eye and he’s sort of cute and he’s funny and he has stature immediately.

You had to pay attention to this.”

Rev. Amos Brown, who has known Bond since his days at Morehouse College, also remembers the importance of the Chicago convention.

“In Chicago, we were not just fighting for civil rights we were fighting to empower Black people to be involved in the political process,” said Brown, a NAACP board member from San Francisco. “Back then, we were pushing for people to get registered to vote and to be engaged and fight against the political structure continuing to be a monopoly of power for whites.

“He was a man beyond his years, in terms of his depth and breadth of understanding of the issues. That’s, why he was nominated. There was great agitation and protests and they were making waves as young people in the nation. The attitude was, ‘Why not?’”

Tyrone Brooks served six years in the Georgia legislature with Bond and grew up around Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Hosea Williams, John Lewis and other activists in Atlanta.

“Julian Bond was a great leader, a great hero, one of the smartest minds that I ever met and at 75-years-old we should be celebrating his legacy. We shouldn’t be sad about it at all,” said Brooks. “Before I got elected, Julian Bond had already introduced legislation to make Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday a state legal holiday.”

(Read full story on www.westsidegazette.com)

Plantation; (754) 322-1950 South Broward High Community School, 1901 N.

Federal Hwy., Hollywood; (754) 323-1900 Taravella High Commu-

nity School, 10600 Riverside Dr., Coral Springs; (754) 3222400 Tequesta Trace Middle Community, 1800 Indian Trace, Weston; (754) 323-4470 Walter C. Young Community, 901 N.W. 129 Ave., Pembroke Pines; (754) 3234570 Adult High School On-lineonly locations: Hollywood Hills High Community School, 5400 Stirling Rd., Hollywood; (754) 323-1150 Taravella High Community School, 10600 Riverside Dr., Coral Springs; (754) 3222400

Exam & college test prep classes & locations

Exam & College Test Prep Increase and improve your test taking skills, from FCAT, GRE, and TOEFL to exams for electrical contracting and waste water operations. · ACT Prep: Get ready for the ACT test. This course will provide strategies in English, reading, math and science. Dates: Aug. 31, 2015 – Oct. 26, 2015 Enhance testtaking strategies and skill levels for the ACT college entrance exam. Dates: Sept. 22, 2015 – Oct. 22, 2015 School: Tequesta Trace Community School · ACT Test Prep: Reading, Writing & English: Designed to prepare students for the Reading, Writing & English portions of the ACT test.

Includes: Test taking strategies for each section, test sample items, timed practice tests, score

review and answer review.

Dates: Sept. 1, 2015 – Oct. 20, 2015 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. School: Walter C. Young Community School · College Prep Math: This class is to prepare students for the math portion of the P.E.R.T. (Postsecondary Education Readiness Test). The class will review the following: Basic Intermediate Advance Math, Graphs, Measurement, Percent, Ratios, Inequalities, Geometry, Algebra.

Dates: Sept. 1, 2015 – Oct. 20, 2015 Time: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

School: Nova Community School SAT Preparation Enhance test-taking strategies and skill levels for the SAT college entrance exam.

Dates: Sept. 3 – Oct. 22 Time: 6 – 9 p.m. School: Nova Community School

· SAT Preparation Enhance test taking strategies and skill levels for the SAT college entrance exam.

Dates: Sept. 2 – Oct. 28 Time: 6 – 9 p.m.

School: Tequesta Trace Community School · SAT Test Preparation: Math Enhance testtaking strategies and Mathematic skill level for the SAT college entrance exam. Students will work through problems in class to form a better understanding. Dates: Aug. 31 – Oct. 26 Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

School: Walter C. Young Community School · SAT Test Preparation: Reading & Writing Designed to prepare students for the Critical Reading portion of the SAT test. Students will learn various strategies to increase their SAT score, as well as methods to improve vocabulary and reading comprehension skills.

Students will be able to use valuable strategies to tackle Critical Reading questions - both Sentence Completion and Reading Comprehension. No Class Sept. 23. Dates: Sept. 2– Oct. 28 Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

School: Walter C. Young Community School

Page 18 • August 20 - August 26, 2015

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Westside Gazette

Counseling & Family Ministry

Back-to-School transition: Tips for Parents

By Ted Feinberg, EdD, NCSP, & Katherine C. Cowan National Association of School Psychologists Getting a new school year off to a good start can influence children’s attitude, confidence, and performance both socially and academically. The transition from August to September can be difficult for both children and parents. Even children who are eager to return to class must adjust to the greater levels of activity, structure, and for some, pressures associated with school life. Here are a few suggestions to help ease the transition and promote a successful school experience.

Before School Starts Good Physical and Mental Health. Schedule doctor and dental checkups early. Your child will benefit if you can identify and begin addressing a potential issue before school starts. Schools appreciate the efforts of parents to remedy problems as soon as they are recognized.

Review All of the Information and Mark Your Calendar. Review the materials sent by the school room, number, school supply requirements, sign-ups for afterschool sports and activities, school calendar dates, bus transportation, health and emergency forms, and volunteer opportunities.

Make a note of important dates, especially back-to-school nights.

Arrange for a babysitter now, if necessary.

Make Copies. Make copies of all your child’s health and emergency information for reference. Health forms are typically good for more than a year and can be used again for camps, extracurricular activities, and the following school year.

Buy School Supplies Early. Try to get the supplies as early as possible and fill the backpacks a week or two before school starts. Some teachers require specific supplies, so save receipts for items that you may need to return later.

Re-establish the Bedtime and Mealtime Routines.

Plan to re-establish the bedtime and mealtime routines (especially breakfast) at least oneweek before school starts.

Turn off the TV. Encourage your child to play quiet games, flash cards, color, or read as early morning activities instead of watching television. This will help ease your child into the learning process and school routine.

Freeze a Few Easy Dinners. It will be much easier on you if you have dinner prepared so that meal preparation will not add to household tensions during the first week of school.

Visit School with Your Child. If your child is young or in a new school, visit the school

with your child. Meeting the teacher, locating their classroom, locker, lunchroom, etc., will help ease pre-school anxieties and also allow your child to ask questions about the new environment.

Minimize Issues About Clothes. Layout and iron outfits for the first week of school. Check with your school to confirm dress code guidelines, especially if they require uniforms.

Designate and Clear a Place to do Homework. Older children should have the options of studying in their room or a quiet area of the house.

Younger children usually need an area set aside in the family room or kitchen to facilitate adult supervision, help and encouragement. Select a spot to keep backpacks and lunch boxes.

Designate a spot for your children to place their school belongings as well as a place to put important notices and information sent home for you to see. Explain that emptying their backpack each evening is part of their responsibility, even for young children.

F.L.O.W. to Greatness