Ligon Link
August 2013
Ligon Link
Ligon GT Magnet Middle School 706 E. Lenoir Street Raleigh, NC 27601 919-856-7929
Welcome Back To School
Principal’s Letter
Dear Parents,
I love the beginning of the school year as this is the time that we welcome our
new Ligon students and families to our wonderful school. Ligon is a very special
learning community. I am fortunate to see amazing things happen instructionally and interact with the
most talented students and staff in the county. I look forward to all that they will achieve this year. As
we transition from NCWise to Home Base, the system will no longer utilize SPAN. Home Base will have
a parent module called Oasis (Online Access to Student Information). However, it is not expected to be
ready for use in August. When the parent module becomes accessible, I will communicate accordingly.
Therefore, plan to utilize the teachers’ websites because they include valuable instructional information
and resources. Also, plan to attend the Principal’s Coffees. During those coffees I will provide school
updates and provide parents the opportunity to give feedback. Principals’ Coffees are scheduled for
October 4, December 6, February 7, and April 11 at 7:30 am in the Media Center. Additionally, our
Saturday phone messages provide weekly updates from our school calendar. If you sign up for our
Yahoo Group, you will get the phone message emailed to you. Lastly, please sign up to be in our School
Directory. You will only be listed if you sign up and it’s more helpful to others the more people we can
include. (See inside for more information on all of these.)
Parents, we welcome your support and involvement. Please join and support our PTA. They are
currently supporting us to improve our technology available to our school community. Technology is an
area that we need to continuously improve. I am so appreciative of the financial support from our PTA
to help us move in the right direction. Last year, the PTA provided IPADs and technology resources to
our school. Please support their efforts. Additionally, please support our Ligon Arts Boosters (LAB) and
Ligon Sports Boosters (LSB). If you are new to Ligon and have never attended one of our plays or
performances, come out and see the “magic happen.” Our productions are engaging and LAB supports
us in purchasing costumes, scripts, etc. LSB needs your help as well to encourage our student athletes.
As much as we need you in these areas, we also need your support in volunteering at school.
Continued on page 5.
Carpool Tips….Page 2
Stay Connected…..Page 3
Important Dates…..Page 16
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LIGON CARPOOL GUIDELINES
August 2013
Do You Drive to Ligon?
Follow these 3 rules to keep our line moving & our kids safe:
1. When there are cars behind you in the loop, please pull as far forward as possible before you stop your car
(see point C below).
2. Once your car is stopped along the sidewalk (anywhere between points A and C), students should exit the
car. Please remind your students of this rule and resist any lobbying from your passengers to wait until they are
close to the door (point B) to exit. Many cars need to pass through the loop. Fifteen cars unloading at once
moves much faster than only a few at a time unloading next to the front door!
3. Please do not make a left turn as you exit the loop during carpool. Instead continue straight across Lenoir
Street and go one block north to Davie Street where you can easily and safely turn left. Even one car waiting at the
traffic light to turn left creates gridlock.
Our goal is to make carpool as safe and efficient as possible. THANK YOU for helping make it happen.
Need a Carpool?
The PTA sponsors an annual car-pool list, early in the school year. To participate, submit via e-mail: your name,
child’s name & grade, your complete mailing and e-mail address, home & cell phone number and a point of
reference to where you are located.
Once the list is compiled, all those participating will receive the completed list. From there, personal car-pool
arrangements can be made, usually by mid-September. As well, forms will be available (for those who do not prefer
e-mail) and can be submitted to the main office. Your Ligon PTA contact person is Terri Hart at
ligoncarpool@gmail.com.
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August 2013
Say Goodbye To Those Weekly Folders.
Here Is How Parents Stay Connected At Ligon . . .

Weekly phone message from the school office. Parents/Guardians are automatically in the system (i.e.
no need to sign up). If you are not receiving messages, call 856-7929.

Ligon e-News. PTA will send a digest of announcements for parents to your inbox each week. Simply
send a blank email to ligonparents-subscribe@yahoogroups.com & follow the instructions in the reply
message. If you already belong to other yahoo groups, just visit
http://groups.yahoo.com/groups/ligonparents and then click "join this group."

Ligon website. A feast of all things Ligon. The school has updated the website over the summer.
Check it out, bookmark it, and visit regularly at ligon.wcpss.net. The calendar is regularly updated and
is a great resource.

Bulletin Board. From high tech to low tech -- PTA maintains a bulletin board that is outside the front
office and is updated weekly.

The Student Directory is put together and printed by the PTA. It is typically distributed in October. Due
to privacy rules, you must provide between Aug 5 and Sept 13 to be included. Visit the PTA website
http://www.ligonpta.com/pta.htm or click on the PTA tab of the Ligon website and follow the
instructions. The process is quick, simple and can be done from any computer including those in the
Ligon Media Center and in any public library.
. . . And how to keep tabs on what is happening in your child's classes:

Student Agendas and Interim reports. Agendas (Planners) are strongly recommended for each
student. Ligon’s customized agendas will be for sale for $5.00 each. The Student Handbook will be
incorporated into this year’s agenda. You can purchase the agenda at Into The Blue (8/21), from your
homeroom teacher, from student services, or at Open House (9/12). We encourage you to make this
purchase for your child to foster good study habits and to record all homework assignments, projects and
tests. Teachers send home interim reports with detailed lists of assignments and grades in the middle of
each quarter, which allows time for intervention (if needed) before report cards are issued.

Blackboard & Schoolnotes. Visit the staff directory on the Ligon website. There you can find links to
teachers’ websites, blackboard, or schoolnotes websites that many teachers use to publish information
for each of their classes.

Home Base/Power School Parent Portal. Home Base/Power School Parent portal will be replacing
SPAN in the 2013-2014 School Year. Application for Access must be completed either through Hand
Delivery at the School (photo ID required) or through Notary. If you
download the Notary Form, it must be notarized before bringing it to the school.
No access will be granted if this is not done.
All forms can be found on the WCPSS website
at http://www.wcpss.net/parents/homebase/
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August 2013
Into The Blue
Orientation
Wednesday 8/21/13
Ligon Media Center
For all NEW 6th grade students:
The Into the Blue Orientation will be held from
9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Parents and students
are asked to begin arriving at 8:45 a.m. This
event will focus on important information for
parents that will help them with the transition to
middle school. The students will participate in
team building activities, school tours and walk
their schedules.
For NEW rising 7th and 8th grade students:
The New to the Blue Orientation will also be
held from 1:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. This event will
include information on Daily Operations, School
Expectations (dress code, behavior, lunch,
hallway transitions), Transportation and much
more. Students will tour the grade level hallway
and get a change to meet grade level staff.
Student Directory
Hey Kids and parents, you have to sign up to
be included in the School Directory!
Go online and enter your contact information.
Student directories are a GREAT resource for
students and families. However, you must
submit your information in order for it to appear
in the directory.
Simply go to www.ligonpta.com or click on
the PTA tab for the Ligon website
http://ligon.wcpss.net between Aug 5th and
Sept 13th.
You can also use the school’s computers in the
Media center.
Under school system policy, school directories
are permissible only if parents provide the
contact information directly to the PTA.
Participation is purely voluntary. The Ligon
PTA publishes this school directory solely as a
resource for Ligon students and parent
volunteers. Use of this directory for commercial,
political, or other purposes is strictly prohibited.
Student Volunteers from National Junior Honor
Society, Ligon Student Council, and Ligon Quad A
and friends will meet with Mrs. Douglas on
Tuesday, August 20, 2013 to set up for Into the
Blue. Parents and students will be called and/or
emailed during the summer about the time of the
set-up/practice.
If you have any questions, please contact Pamela
Douglas-6th Grade Counselor at
pdouglas@wcpss.net or (919) 856-7950.
QUAD A-stands for African American Academic Achievers
This is a group has been designed to support our African American AG students throughout the school year.
Students will be able to meet twice a month during an elective class period that will be announced and various
topics will be discussed. The new 6th graders are invited to attend and will receive a phone call from Mrs.
Douglas at the beginning of the school year. Please contact Pamela Douglas at pdouglas@wcpss.net or
919.856.7950 for more information.
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August 2013
Continued from page 1
We need media volunteers desperately as one of the ways they cut our funding was through our clerical
allotment. Therefore, we need consistent volunteers in the media center as well as student support. We continue
to need you so sign-up to volunteer at Ligon! Parents make a commitment to come support our arts program
(band, dance, orchestra, play, and arts), academic competitions, or sports as our students love to see you there!
Wear your Ligon spirit wear and support our school.
Ligon GT Magnet Middle School is a great place to be. I look forward to another great year at Ligon!
Gretta Dula
Principal
Greetings from Your PTA President…
Dear Ligon Families:
Welcome to Ligon Middle School for the 2013-2014 school year. My son is a rising 8th grader and when I
look back over the last two years I am amazed at his academic and social growth. Ligon has a teaching staff
that I believe to be the best in Wake County. I look forward to another year of Academics + Arts = Student
Achievement.
The staff at Ligon works very hard and successfully to close the achievement gap. Our PTA Vision and
Mission are aligned with this goal.
 PTA Vision – Making every child’s potential a reality
 PTA Mission – A powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities,
and a strong advocate for the education and well-being of every child.
During the upcoming school year, the PTA has many opportunities for you to volunteer and help us achieve
our Vision and Mission. Your ideas and suggestions to improve what we do for our students are always
appreciated.
We need everyone:






Join the PTA
Donate to our Annual Fundraiser
Volunteer
Fieldtrip Scholarships
Mentor
Tutor
Ligon was founded in 1954 as an all African-American high school and named after John W. Ligon who was
an influential Minister & Educator. In the 1980’s when Ligon was integrated it was 1st a Ninth grade center
and then converted to a Middle School. Ligon alumni include Tuskegee Airmen, former and current Wake
County public school teachers, physicians, entrepreneurs, performing and visual artists, attorneys etc. Your
student enters Ligon as heir to this immense academic wealth and history.
Welcome to another fabulous year at Ligon,
Vickie Adamson, 2013/2014 PTA President
ligonptapres@gmail.com
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Ligon’s Annual Phantom Fall
Fundraiser!!
The Ligon PTA’s largest fundraiser begins August
21st and we need your help. At Ligon, we do not
ask our parents and students to sell items or raffle
tickets to raise money – we just ask our parents
and community to write one check. This fundraiser
funds important classroom and educational
initiatives at Ligon. Our school depends on the PTA
to provide excellence in education, a unique
cultural arts program and community support.
Due to recent state budget cuts, the Ligon
administration and staff is being asked to do more
with less. Some needs for this year include:
• Critical technology needs and upgrades, such as
supplying iPads for enhanced education
opportunities
August 2013
Proposed 2013-2014
PTA Budget
Income
Book Fair Income
Bolt for the Blue
Carryover -- Base
Carryover -- Book Fair
Carryover -- Projects
Carryover -- TOTAL
8th Grade Events
Community Funding
Magnets
Phantom Fundraiser
PTA Membership Dues
NC State Sales Tax Refund
Total Income
4,500
2,500
6,000
1,289
16,617
23,906
4,000
2,300
500
20,000
2,500
1,000
$61,206
• Staff development programs
• Enhancing elective offerings
As you consider your tax-deductible contributions
this year, we hope you will consider making a
contribution to help your child’s school. Please
send in checks made out to Ligon PTA and mail to
ATTN: Ligon PTA, Ligon Middle School, 706 East
Lenoir Street, Raleigh, NC 27601. We will also be
at the open house on September 12th so you can
make your donation then.
With your support, we can continue to build on
Ligon Excellence and make 2013-2014 a great
year!!
Kerry Troester
kerry@troester.net
Vice President of Fundraising, Ligon PTA
Expenses
Fundraising Expenses
Miscellaneous Expenses
Operating Expenses
Program Expenses
8th Grade Events
Buildings and Grounds
Dula Lunches
Into the Blue (Orientation)
Media Center
Media Center for next
year
Newsletter
Parent Education
PTA Hospitality
Reflections
Student Directory
Teacher Classroom
Support
Teacher of the Year
Banquet
Technology
Writer in Residence
Total Expenses
7,800
1,600
7,890
4,000
400
750
400
1,289
1,400
1,000
1,000
7,150
100
1,200
2,100
200
19,927
3,000
$61,206
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Ligon Link
Ligon Parent Volunteer Form
August 2013
Your child needs YOU to be involved at Ligon!
Volunteer opportunities at Ligon are numerous, and there are jobs to fit every schedule. You can help out with a
one-time-only event or volunteer on a regular basis. You can come to school or work from home. Please fill out
this Google Doc:
http://tinyurl.com/ligon-volunteer
Together we can make difference.
Home Base/Power School Parent Portal
Home Base/Power School Parent Portal will be replacing SPAN in the 2013.2014 School
Year. Application for Access must be completed either through Hand Delivery at the
School (photo ID required) or through Notary. If you download the Notary Form, it must be
notarized before bringing it to the school. No access will be granted if this is not done.
If you are currently signed up for SPAN,
you should be automatically signed up for Home Base
All forms can be found on the WCPSS website
at http://www.wcpss.net/parents/homebase/
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August 2013
EIGHTH GRADE NEWS!!!!!
For Parents of Upcoming 8th Graders:
Congratulations and welcome to 8th grade! One of the 8th grade team’s priorities is to keep
in contact with parents and one of the best ways to do this is by e-mail. Each year, we try
to create a team e-mail list so that parents can receive updates and other important
information. In order to provide you with information before the school year starts (like
school supply lists & more!), we are asking that you e-mail ligonms8@gmail.com in order
to join the list. Please include your child’s name in the subject line and in the body of the
e-mail, include any other e-mail addresses that you would like added to the list. Thanks
and we look forward to teaching your child next year!
Eighth grade students are going to Washington DC! Washington D.C. is a vibrant city that
gives students the chance to see first-hand inspiring memorials, patriotic landmarks, and
national museums. Stay tuned for more information about our spring field trip!
Sign up to volunteer
at Ligon today!!
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August 2013
LIGON
SPORTS BOOSTERS
The Ligon Sports Boosters (LSB) is the parent-supported organization dedicated to the athletic program at Ligon GT
Magnet Middle School.
Our mission is to provide volunteer and financial support to all sports programs at Ligon. Our funds help to buy new
uniforms, replace equipment, and provide transportation for teams.
The Sports Boosters also helps the less fortunate families with support and or assists with needed equipment to play
on or tryout for Athletic Teams. The LSB feel “No child should ever be left out or not have an equal opportunity to
play for LMS.” In the past the LSB have provided shoes, shorts, warm ups and many other equipment to Ligon
students.
The LSB shall support, encourage and advance the athletic program and related activities of Ligon GT Magnet Middle
School and thereby cultivate wholesome school spirit, promote good sportsmanship, and develop character and high
ideals.
LSB shall promote projects to improve facilities and equipment necessary to provide an adequate athletic program
for Ligon GT Magnet Middle School.
LSB shall not seek to influence or direct technical activities or policies of the school administration or of the school
officials who are charged with responsibility of conducting the athletic program of the schools of the school district.
We encourage the family, friends, and neighbors of Ligon students to become members of LSB.
To order Ligon Sportswear go online at https://johnsonlambe.itemorder.com/
SALE CODE:
LMSSPIRIT13
Ligon wear makes great practice wear, and what better way to support your athlete than cheering from the stands in
your wonderful Ligon apparel.
If you have question or want more information, please contact
Melissa Rouse: Ligon Sports Boosters President at mrousenc@hotmail.com
GO LITTLE BLUES!!
Sincerely,
Melissa Rouse
President, Ligon Sports Boosters
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August 2013
LIGON SPORTS BOOSTERS
The Ligon Sports Boosters (LSB) is the parent-supported organization dedicated to the athletic program at Ligon GT
Magnet Middle School.
Your Name ____________________________________ Spouse’s Name _________________________
Home ph # _______________________________ Your Wk. # __________________________________
Spouse’s Wk# ____________________
Your Email: __________________________________ Spouse’s Email ___________________________
Address ________________________________________ City ____________ Zip __________
Student's Name ________________________________________ Grade __________
Home Room Teacher ________________________________________
I want to join the Ligon Sports Boosters at the following Level:
Memberships:
Gold: All Sports passes for immediate family members (6 max)
$50
Silver: All Sports passes for three (3) family members
$30
Little Blues: All Sports passes for two (2) family members
$25
Student: All Sports passes for one (1) Individual
$15
*Each all-sports pass is issued to a specific individual and is not transferable. Passes are good for all regular home games in all sports for the
entire school year.
Please make checks payable to Ligon Sports Boosters and return to:
Ligon Sports Boosters
c/o Membership Director
706 E. Lenoir Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
Additional ways you can help!
__ Concessions
__ Communications
__ Donation Solicitor
Please check the following activities in which you would be willing to participate:
__ Fundraising (membership raffles, etc)
__ Team Representative (1 needed for each sport)
__ Board Member
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August 2013
PTA
This is YOUR PTA. Help support us any way you can. Questions or concerns? Feel free to
contact our VP of Membership Heather Koons at hhkoons@gmail.com.
Join or Renew Your Yearly Ligon PTA Membership Today!
Name:
_____________________________________________________________
Student’s name: _______________________________________________________
Student’s grade: _______________________________________________________
Mailing Address (Optional):_______________________________________________
PTA membership $10 per person
$_________
Phantom Fundraiser donation (optional)
$ ________
Make checks payable to Ligon PTA. Return to PTA box in mailroom or bring to Into the Blue or
Open House. Your membership card will be delivered to your school mailbox.
What is the one thing that PTA does that helps Ligon the most? _______________
What is one thing that you wish the PTA would do? _________________
PTA use: Date rec'd_______
cash [ ]
check#
Date membership card issued________
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August 2013
Please join us on a school tour!
Tours are every Thursday at 9:00am starting on
October 3 through December 12 and resume
January 9 through February 6.
Open House is January 16 and will have 2 sessions of tours!
Please go to Ligon’s website for tour sign-up information
(http://ligon.wcpss.net/) or call (919)856-7929.
Reflections Contest
The The 2013-2014 PTA reflections contest theme is "Believe,
Dream, Inspire". The Ligon submissions are not due until November
but if you would like to get started over the summer the categories
are Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music
Composition, Photography, Visual Arts and Special Artists.
https://ncpta.org/index.php/programs/reflections-arts-program/
Student Supply Lists
Student supply lists can be found on the Ligon Website under the “For
Students” tab on the front page.
http://ligon.wcpss.net/
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August 2013
Support the Arts at Ligon:
Donate to Ligon Arts Boosters!!!
Will your child take an arts class this year? Ligon Arts teachers instruct approximately 800 students each
quarter, offering a huge range of classes in visual art, dance, drama, stagecraft, and vocal and instrumental
music.
Unfortunately, these top-quality educational experiences come at a cost far beyond what Wake County can
fund. Each year Ligon Arts Boosters raises $30,000 to buy art supplies, sheet music and instruments,
costumes, sets, scripts, performance royalties and so much more.
In the past, we've sold cookie dough, wrapping paper, coupon books...We've sold and sold and sold,
exhausting students and parents, grandparents, neighbors, and friends.
This year, LAB asks you to consider the value of your child's daily exposure to the arts and make a simple
donation in support.
If every Arts family gives $10 per student per class per quarter
LAB will raise $32,000 without a sales-based fundraiser!
Look for LAB's informational flyer, which will be distributed in Arts classes on the first day of each quarter.
Let's work together to support the arts at Ligon without losing 50% of our fundraising dollars to outside
companies! Your donation also makes you a LAB member!
If you wish to donate now, please return the form below with your donation. Make your check payable to
Ligon Arts Boosters and send to LAB, c/o Ligon GT Magnet Middle School, 706 E. Lenoir St. Raleigh, NC
27601
Student Name(s) and Grade(s): ___________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian(s): ____________________________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________________
Phone: _______________________
Email: _____________________________________
My company matches employee donations: ____yes ____no
I would like to be a LAB volunteer: ____yes ____no
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August 2013
Why Join Band?
There are so many wonderful reasons to join the band. Having the skill to perform a musical instrument has
been one of the most cherished accomplishments throughout history. Students who decide to learn to play
an instrument can use this skill and knowledge for the rest of their lives. There is nothing like the joy of
performing music with friends. It happens every day in school groups and continues for adults who still to
play in community bands and orchestras or for those who perform professionally. In all cases, performing
music can be an exhilarating experience.
Aside from the obvious benefits of playing a music instrument, there are a number of surprising academic
benefits to students who study music. Students who take lessons on an instrument at a young age stimulate
the brain in a unique way. Studies have shown that learning to play an instrument enhances a student’s
academic performance in math, language arts, foreign language and other academic areas. Even
standardized test scores such as the SAT are higher among musicians.
Whatever the reason, playing an instrument can bring joy and fulfillment like no other activity. The most
common remark from parents following a wonderful school concert is, “I wish my parents would have
encouraged me to play an instrument and stick with it.”
Take a few minutes and check out the Ligon Band Web Site:
https://sites.google.com/site/ligongtmiddlebands/
If you have questions contact Ligon Band Director Renee Todd at rtodd1@wcpss.net or complete the
google doc.
On August 21st at 12:00 noon there will be a new to band rental meeting in the band room for any students
who have enrolled in a beginning band class for the 2013-2014 school year. Any Ligon student that would
like to sign up for Beginning Band or Intermediate Band that has not already done so, please fill out the
google doc below - This link is also on the Ligon Web Site
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/18HtfbAi8aTl2R6ruw5Ki88ZjONEMjjeyqD6HcU8EH_o/viewform
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August 2013
PTA Membership
When you join the Ligon Parent Teacher
Association – dues are only $10--you also
automatically become a member of both the
state and national PTA, the largest child
advocacy organization in the country.
You are also playing an active role in
providing the best learning environment
possible for our Ligon students. PTA funds
are a crucial way to "fill in the gaps" left by
shrinking state budgets.
To join, simply fill out the form included in
this newsletter, and mail it with your check
to Ligon Middle School, 706 E. Lenoir St.,
Raleigh, NC 27601. Or, you can fill out a
form at Into the Blue, Ligon's orientation
program for new students, on August 21.
Ligon Field Trips!
2nd Annual Field 8th Grade Trip
to Our Nation’s Capital
Each grade will have a major field trip this year.
Dates and Details TBA
Stay tuned as further information will be
forthcoming.
Questions? Please contact Heather
Koons, PTA membership chair, at
hhkoons@gmail.com or 848-6128.
Here's to a great new year at our great
school.
Ligon PTA Checklist for Parents for 2013-14
Complete and return the PTA form: join PTA & donate to PTA phantom.
Input your contact information for our School Directory by visiting the Ligon PTA website (www.ligonpta.com)
between Aug 5 and Sept 13.
Sign up for weekly Ligon e-news messages for parents at http://groups.yahoo.com/groups/ligonparents
Call 856-7929 if you are not receiving the weekly phone master message from Ligon on Saturdays.
Relink your shopping cards: Harris Teeter - 3875
Target - 81079
Food Lion - 213566
Send in your stash of Box Tops and Labels for Education
Generously support Ligon Arts Boosters and Ligon Sports Boosters
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August 2013
Important Dates
(Remember to consult the calendar on the school website for any changes!)
Important Dates Early On…
2013-14 Ligon PTA Meetings
8/21 Into the Blue 8:45am - 12:30pm
8/21 New to the Blue Orientation 1:30 to 3:30
8/26 First Day of School
9/2 No School (Labor Day)
9/6 Teacher Workday
9/12 Open House 5:30pm - 8:30pm
9/13 Deadline to enter your Directory Info
9/27 Early Release
10/18 Early Release
10/28 Teacher Workday
11/8 Early Release
11/11 No School Veterans' Day
11/27 - 29 No School Thanksgiving
12/23 to 1/1 Winter Break
7:30am in the Ligon Media Center
You're invited. Please join us!
 Wed Sept 18
 Wed Oct 16
 Wed Nov 13
 Wed Jan 15
 Wed Mar 12
 Web May 28
Early Release Dates
Students are dismissed at 11:45 am
 Fri Sept 27
 Fri Oct 18
 Fri Nov 8
 Fri Jan 17
 Fri Feb 14
 Fri Mar 7
Ligon Dances (Students only)
Sponsored by Ligon Student Council After school
until 4:45 in the Ligon Gym
New Rule: If a student is picked up after 5:15 they
will not be allowed to go to the next dance
Cost: $5 per person
Concessions available for purchase
Pick up is on Haywood Street at the Arts Wing
Entrance
Dates:
 Fri Sept 20
 Fri Nov 1
 Fri Dec 13
 Fri Feb 21
 Fri Apr 11
Principal's Coffees
7:30am Ligon Media Center
Ms. Dula invites all parents to come for coffee and
conversation
Ligon PTA sponsors the Principal's Coffees
 Fri Oct 4
 Fri Dec 6
 Fri Feb 7
 Fri Apr 11
Eighth Grade Events
8th Grade families and Ligon staff coordinate with
assistance of PTA
Field Trip to Washington DC Spring of 2014
8th Grade Dance Fri May 30 6am - 9pm
8th Grade Picnic Fri June 6 for lunch
8th Grade Awards and Banquet Tue June 10
during the school day
Other Dates
Ligon Fest - Fri June 6
6th and 7th Grade Awards - Mon June 9 8-10am
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August 2013
Understanding School Fundraising
School fundraising can seem much more confusing at the middle and high school level.
Unlike an elementary school where there is typically only one parent group, suddenly
there are multiple groups raising funds for different purposes.

Did you know that under Wake County School Board policy, the school itself is limited to only one fundraising
activity/year? Money goes directly to Ligon for needs identified by the administration.

Did you know that parent groups at schools are not subject to this limitation? As a result, schools do rely on
parents to meet many needs. At Ligon, there are 3 different parent groups (PTA, Ligon Arts Boosters, and
Ligon Sports Boosters.) Each of these groups is a separate non-profit organization that raises money to further
its unique mission at Ligon. You can read about these groups to understand both how funds are raised for each
one and how the money is used at Ligon. All three groups are important and support our community. Think about
how many great opportunities there are for kids at Ligon, and do your best to support all three groups generously.
They each make important contributions.

Additionally, please be aware that the Ligon Student Council raises money that is donated to various charities
outside of the school. Last year they l raised money for the SPCA
PTA? LSB? LAB?
Why Are There 3 Separate Parent Groups?
Short Answer: Three groups with three specialties = one FABULOUS middle school.
Most of us choose to support all three!
PTA – The PTA has a mission that is likely familiar to you from elementary school. We are affiliated with the state and
national organizations that you know well. Our role around the school is deep and wide: hospitality, supporting elective
classes with supplies like fencing, archery and robotics equipment, Reflections national art contest, book fair, special
projects such as funding an iPad Learning Lab at Ligon, coordinating teacher and staff appreciation and student
recognition events. The list is diverse but the goal is always to support students, teachers, staff and parents in making
Ligon a great place to work and learn.
Who is LAB? Ligon Arts Boosters contribute to the arts education for all Ligon art students. Whether your student takes
one art class or years of the arts, that student will benefit from LABʼs efforts. Our efforts support quality art supplies,
costumes, drama scripts, set materials, dance shoes, sheet music, and instrument repair. LAB strives to make possible the
purchase of big-ticket items such as musical instruments, kilns, and audio equipment. LAB offers field trip scholarships so all
students have a chance to participate in these exciting, educational trips.
The Ligon Sports Boosters - LSB provides the opportunity for everyone (students, siblings, parents, grandparents) to
purchase and proudly wear our very cool Ligon Spirit Wear. In addition to funds raised through Ligon Spirit Wear sales, LSB
raises additional funds through concession sales at home sporting events and through our very successful sports
membership drive throughout the year. We wrap up our annual fundraising by supporting all the fun at the annual Ligon
Fest. Come show your school spirit and join us for exciting sports events all year long!
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Ligon Link
August 2013
Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America
Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) builds leaders for healthy
families, successful careers, and strong communities. It is a dynamic and effective national
student organization that helps young men and women become leaders and address
important personal, family, work, and societal issues through family and consumer sciences
education. FCCLA involves community service projects, personal projects, competition and
travel! Any student taking or has taken any Family and Consumer Sciences class at Ligon
(sewing, creative cuisine, interior design, and/or child care) is eligible to join FCCLA! More
information and membership letters are posted outside of Ms. Anderson's room (1203)!
First meeting will be Monday, September 16 at 2:20-4:30!
Community Funding
Contribute To Your School –Without Spending an Extra Penny!
In addition to Membership and Phantom
contributions, Ligon depends on
Community Fundraising to support our
programs and activities. Every bit helps,
and these are easy ways you can help. All
it takes is a few minutes to link cards, and
cut out box tops.
Box Tops for Education
Ligon earns 10 cents for each box top
from Pillsbury and General Mills products.
Simply save your box tops and send in
with your child. We will have a box in the
main office to collect. If each child sent in
5 box tops each week, we would earn
$20,000 for Ligon!
Labels for Education
Link to Stores

Harris Teeter: 3875 Remember you
must re-link each year. You can link
at the store, or on-line
http://www.harristeeter.com/communit
y/together_in_education/link_to_your_
school.aspx

Target: 81079 “Take Charge of
Education”: Many of you have or may
decide to get a Target “Redcard” to
receive 5% off all Target purchases.
If so, you can link your card to receive
$ for Ligon either on-line or by calling
1-800-316-6142.

Food Lion: 213566 Register your
MVP card:
http://www.foodlionmvprewards.com/
mvp_ registration/cardno.php
Ligon also free educational equipment in
exchange for labels for various products
from brands such as Cambell’s and Post.
These corporate programs provide significant
contributions to Ligon and don’t cost an extra
penny, so please take 5 minutes today to link your
cards and start saving Box Tops!
18
Ligon Link
August 2013
Past President’s Report
As the immediate past president of the Ligon PTA, I wanted to keep you posted on what the PTA accomplished during the
2012/2013 school year. The PTA started technology as the fundraising focus during the 2010/11 school year in response
to a difficult economy and budget cuts that left Ligon without updates and upgrades to the technology available to our
students and teachers. For the foreseeable future we do not expect the difficult budget situation to change.
Our Accomplishments 2012/2013:
 Raise funds for 20 new iPads
 Bolt for the Blue raised $6,000 for technology
 Book Fair raised $2,000 for the Media Center
 Box Tops raised over $1,000 from Box Tops
 Provided Teachers with classroom Start-up Funds
 Provided Math Kits for all grade levels
 Paid for our Wake County Teacher of the Year Ms. Lightfoot to attend the Teacher of the Year Banquet
 Provided flowers for the front of the school
 Provided guest speakers and lunch for Ms. Dula’s monthly Principal’s Lunch series
 Provided volunteers for Into the Blue
 Provided funds and volunteers for Recruiting events
 Published and mailed the Ligon Summer Newsletter
 Sponsored several parent educations seminars – parent drug information, internet safety and school success
 Added Teacher Appreciation to at least one event per month
 Provided food and volunteers for teacher Back to School Breakfast, Career Day Lunch, Bus Driver Appreciation,
and End of Year Teacher Banquet
 Provided refreshments for quarterly Principals’ Coffee
 Provided food, invitations, certificates and volunteers for Student Recognition
 Coordinated and funded Ligon submissions for the State PTA Reflections competition
 Started a PTA School Improvement Committee
 Collected information, funded and distributed Student Directory
 Funded annual Writer in Residence
 Sponsored first annual Ligon Alumni Night
 Provided Volunteer support for Teachers
 Provided supplies, clothing, mentoring, tutoring and field trip scholarships for needy students
 Volunteer attended District 4 Board Advisory Council
 PTA Volunteers joined the School Improvement Committee
 Provided new TV’s in Classrooms with broken TV’s
 Updated Ligon TV Studio
 Provided Elective Class Supplies and Equipment
 Provided Car Pool Coordination
 Provided Volunteer Support and Food for Career Day
 Supported Ligon’s efforts to include Special Needs Students in all events
Our Parents and Community Partners made all of this happen through the generous volunteering of time, generous
financial contributions to our fundraiser, by clipping box tops and linking loyalty cards, by sending in donations of food
and supplies that help keep our program expenses low, and with thoughtful spending by all Ligon PTA
committees. THANK YOU for making it possible for our students and teachers to have access to tools that engage and
motivate a wide range of learners. There is more work to be done but our community has much to be proud of on this
team effort.
Vickie Adamson
Past President Ligon PTA
2012/2013
19
Ligon GT Middle School
Nonprofit Organization
U. S. POSTAGE PAID
Raleigh, NC
Permit Number 1854
706 E. Lenoir Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
919-856-7929
Ligon PTA Officers
President
Vickie Adamson
ligonptapres@gmail.com
First VP
Jennifer Kappler
jkappler@aicpa.org
Secretary
Dianne Dunning
ddunning@ncsu.edu
Treasurer
Jennifer Neisner
ligonptatreasurer@gmail.com
VP Communications
Open
Open
VP Advocacy/Programs
Hunter Buxton
hunterbuxton@gmail.com
VP Membership
Heather Koon
hhkoons@gmail.com
VP Fundraising
Kerry Troester
kerry@troester.net
VP Support Services
Trish Stutts
tstutts@gmail.com
VP Student Achievement
Doris Sanders
Youthministry@mountpeace.org
Please contact us with any questions or if you want to be a part of the Ligon PTA.