Webucator is a weekly publication produced by the Tacoma Public Schools Public
Information Office for district staff members. To submit story ideas or inquire about a
published story, contact Pam Thompson at pthomps@tacoma.k12.wa.us or call the Public
Information Office at 253-571-1015. Please note: When submitting photos of students with
a story, please include their names and make sure the students have no photo
restrictions.
April 9, 2010
Images of the week
Daffodil queen from Stadium
Dates to remember
April 10: Hilltop Artists reception, Seymour Conservatory, 1 p.m.
April 14: TPS Queer & Allied Educators Network meeting, April 14, at 4 p.m., Shakabrah
Java, 2618 Sixth Ave.
April 15: Superintendent’s Scholars, 6 p.m., Stadium H.S.
April 16: Whitman E.S. third Relay for Life Walk, 1:30 p.m., rain or shine
April 16: Point Defiance annual auction, spaghetti dinner at 5:30 p.m.
April 17: Tacoma is College Bound event, Tacoma Community College, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
April 18–24: Administrative Professionals Week
April 18–24: Public School Volunteer Week
April 20: Bryant Montessori Watch D.O.G.S. Dads and kids pizza night kickoff, 6 p.m.
April 22: Board meeting, 6 p.m., fourth-floor auditorium, CAB
April 22: Earth Day
April 24: Parks Appreciation Day, 9 a.m. to noon
April 24: TPS and Tacoma Community College (TCC) pow wow at TCC, grand entries
at 1 and 7 p.m.
April 27: Whitman E.S. Volunteer Recognition Night
April 29: Blix E.S. parent night/multicultural celebration, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
April 30: National Arbor Day
April 30: Whitman E.S. tree planting in memory of Jennifer Paulson
Annie Jeong is the first Stadium
H.S. Daffodil Queen in many
years. She is escorted to the
Queen’s Assembly at Stadium.
Board news
First student day to be Sept. 2
The school board approved the 2010-2011 school year calendar at its March 25 board
meeting. School, for teachers, begins with a waiver day on Wednesday, Sept. 1.
Students start school Thursday, Sept. 2. Click here for the 2010-2011 calendar.
The Daffodil queen and princesses
perform a dance at the Queen’s
Assembly at Stadium H.S.
Study session
Shaun Taylor, executive director of Technology Services, provided an update on the
2010-2013 technology plan.
Public hearing
The board conducted a public hearing on the transfer of 2001 bond funds for replacing
and equipping of a new elementary school on the Geiger Elementary School site.
Recognition of staff, students and community
The board recognized:
 The Shading Tree Foundation for donating $8,500 to the Tone Resource Center
for homeless students
 The Stadium High School girls bowling team for winning the state 4A academic
championship with an average grade point average of 3.36
Data presentation
The founder and president of The BERC Group, Dr. Duane Baker gave a presentation
of data his company has gathered from a study of school and classroom practices in the
Tacoma Public Schools.
A Stadium jazz group performs
for Queen Annie seated in the
background.
Jill Fletcher honored
Curt Kruse of STAR 101.5 radio
presents Larchmont E.S. teacher
Jill Fletcher with a $100 check.
Board actions
The board:
 approved the 2010-2013 technology plan
 approved the revisions to the First Creek Middle School attendance boundaries
to even out the enrollment at middle schools
 proclaimed Saturday, April 24, as Parks Appreciation Day
 adopted Resolution No. 1860, support of Metro Parks Proposition 1 for a
maintenance and operations levy
 cancelled the April 8 school board meeting
Next meeting
A study session on math will be Thursday, April 22, at 4 p.m. in the fourth-floor
auditorium at the Central Administration Building (CAB).
Jill Fletcher’s first-grade class,
wearing paper crowns, pose with
Curt Kruse of STAR 101.5 after
their teacher was named Teacher
of the Week.
The next regular meeting will be Thursday, April 22, at 6 p.m. in the fourth-floor
auditorium at CAB.
Upcoming events
Hilltop Artists public opening of glass show April 10
The opening reception for the Hilltop Artists installation “the Nature of Glass” will be
Saturday, April 10, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Seymour Conservatory, Wright Park, 316
S. G St. The Hilltop Artists students have created forms inspired by nature and
composed in molten glass. “Come see amazing tidal creatures and whimsical flora
displayed among the conservatory’s stunning plants,” said Kathy Anderson, program
spokeswoman.
Ronald McDonald juggles for
teacher Jill Fletcher at Larchmont
and her first-grade class.
The exhibit will run through May 31, Tuesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Superintendent’s Scholars April 15 at Stadium
The Superintendent’s Scholars award ceremony will be Thursday, April 15, at 6 p.m. at
Stadium High School. These students are high school seniors who have achieved a 3.8
or better cumulative grade point average for their entire four-year high school career.
Soldiers to remove invasive plants at Stadium April 17
On Saturday, April 17, 70 U.S. Army soldiers with the 17th Fire Brigade stationed at Joint
Base Lewis-McChord will descend upon Stadium High School to help remove invasive
plants from Stadium Bowl in preparation for the bowl’s 100th anniversary this year. The
soldiers, led by Lt. William Walton, will cut and pull out invasive Scotch Broom, English
Ivy and Himalayan blackberries from the hillside that lies above the Stadium football
field and below the parking garage.
The soldiers will work from 8 a.m. to noon under the direction and with the assistance of
Tacoma Public Schools Building and Grounds (B&G) staff. The invasive plants are
choking out more desirable plants. The soldiers helping to remove the invasive plants
are all volunteers. In recognition of their service to the school, the Stadium Booster Club
will barbecue hamburgers and hotdogs to feed the soldiers before they head back to the
joint base.
Stadium High School biology teacher Phil Hertzog is helping to coordinate the effort.
Hertzog said, “The Tacoma Public Schools and Stadium community have really come
together to support the soldiers’ volunteer efforts. The Booster Club, Building and
Grounds staff, Laborers Union #252, administration and Lt. Walton have all been
enthusiastic about the project. You should see a vast improvement in the appearance of
the bowl when the soldiers complete their cleanup mission.”
Read full story
Watch D.O.G.S. kickoff at Bryant April 20
Bryant Montessori’s kickoff of its Watch D.O.G.S. program will be Tuesday, April 20, at
Curt Kruse helps a first grader
with her paper crown after
students donned STAR 101.5 Tshirts that were in their goody
bags.
Birney thanks community
Thank you, Tacoma Public Schools
staff and the Birney community.
Stewart team wins $500
6 p.m. Dads and students will gather for a pizza night at Bryant. Jason Eisenhart is
leading the pack; contact him at bryantwatchdogs@gmail.com for more information.
Nominations for KCTS Golden Apple Awards due April 30
KCTS Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Education are open for nominations,
which must be postmarked by April 30. The purpose of these awards is to honor and
share innovative and successful teaching models and programs among Washington
state educators and the public at large.
During this 19th year of the initiative, the Golden Apple Awards will honor a mix of 10
individuals and school and community programs. Recipients will receive a cash award
and be featured in a primetime special that will air on public television stations across
the state in February 2011.
Edith Stewart’s team at Stewart
Middle School won $500 in the
School of the Future competition
for the second year in a row.
Jason Lee prepares for MSP
Nominees may be teachers, administrators, staff, volunteers, educational or community
programs or local businesses working in partnership with schools to make schools
innovative and exciting places to learn.
The KCTS 9 Golden Apple Awards are made possible by a grant from PEMCO
Insurance.
Visit the Web site at www.KCTS9.org/goldenapple for nomination forms or more
information, send an e-mail to GoldenApple@KCTS9.org or call 1-800-766-0900.
JA Fiscal Fitness Bowl fundraiser May 1
Junior Achievement of Washington and Tacoma Public Schools have an important
relationship. Every year Junior Achievement supplements the district’s academic
programs by helping educate students about work readiness, entrepreneurship and
financial literacy through experiential, hands-on programs.
Jason Lee M.S. students practice
taking the Measurement of
Student Progress tests on
computers.
Downing’s Hearts for Haiti
As a member of the Junior Achievement of Washington Board of Directors, the
superintendent encourages staff members to participate in the organization’s annual
Fiscal Fitness Bowl fundraiser, which takes place Saturday, May 1, from 9 to 11 a.m. at
Narrows Plaza Bowl.
This event is the main way for Junior Achievement to raise funds for its important work.
To participate is simple. Here is how you can get involved: Form a team of five bowlers.
Select a captain. Register your team online at www.jawashington.org.
The registration fee is $10 per bowler. JA has set fundraising goals of $150 per bowler
or $750 per team. Seek pledges from your friends, family, co-workers and contacts.
Contributions are tax-deductible. If you need additional incentive, Junior Achievement
offers a variety of prizes for bowlers who reach fundraising milestones.
Downing E.S. students raised
more than $1,000 for Haiti.
First Creek presents award
The superintendent from the Peninsula School District has challenged Tacoma Public
Schools to see which district can raise the most money for Junior Achievement.
Click here for guidelines; click here for more information, or call Dan Voelpel, public
information director, at 253-571-1015.
New Paradigm recognition ceremony May 12
This year’s New Paradigm Recognition Ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, May
12, at 6 p.m. at the Stadium High School Theater. The event will consist of a recognition
ceremony in the auditorium, followed by refreshments in the Commons Area.
Each middle school submits four names; each high school submits eight names. The
following criteria is used when selecting students:
Students who show improvement in academic achievement, student attendance and
behavior, or who have made a significant contribution to his/her school—in essence a
good example to others.
First Creek Middle School copresidents Tae McKenzie and
Selena Sok presented a Junior
Achievement business award at
the Paramount Theater in Seattle.
Students who reflect the diversity of a school’s population.
Schools should return the completed forms by Friday, April 16, to Barbara Marshall,
Room 326 at the Central Administration Building. If you have any questions, contact her
at 253-571-1032.
CBTP trainees help prepare for Metro Parks plant sale May 29
Tacoma Public Schools’ Community-based Transition Program (CBTP) trainees are
assisting the Metro Parks crew with plant preparation for the spring plant sale. The
students are helping with preparing plants and organization and movement of plants for
sale. Catherine Sanderson, transition specialist, said, “The Metro Parks employees say
the trainees are a great help during this hectic time of the year. The trainees also set up
plant displays to entice gardeners.”
First Creek students work during a
dress rehearsal for the award
presentations.
Barnes wins first in welding
The plant sale will be Saturday, May 29, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Point Defiance
greenhouses, 5402 N. Shirley St.
TPS night at the Mariners July 22
Join a crowd of Tacoma Public School (TPS) employees and their families for a TPS
night of baseball when the Mariners play the Boston Red Sox on Thursday, July 22.
There are only six seats left. The cost is $40 per person and includes charter bus
transportation from CAB, the game ticket, a “goodie” bag with snacks, beverages and
prizes. The TPS seating is in Section 312 (right field view seats), rows 9–13. The bus
will leave the rear parking lot at CAB at 5:45 p.m. and return to CAB after the game.
Call Dee Kirkevold at 253-571-1030 or Christina Weaver at 253-571-1031 with any
questions or to reserve a place on the bus. First come, first served. Full payment will
hold your seat. No refunds will be issued within 30 days unless seats are resold. A
waitlist will be accepted and cleared if cancellations arise. Bus and game ticket must be
sold together.
News and updates
Scottie Barnes from Lincoln H.S.
took first place in a recent welding
competition.
Jill Fletcher’s day interrupted
Friday morning began as usual in Jill Fletcher’s first-grade class at Larchmont
Elementary School on April 9. Students sat on the floor around Fletcher when the door
opened and in trooped a group of adults. One carried flowers, some cameras. Another
had an enlarged check for $100 under his arm. Ronald McDonald in his dazzling bright
yellow-and-red suit bounced along in the middle of the group that included Principal
Cynthia Horner.
Curt Kruse, STAR 101.5’s Afternoon Show host, led the surprise visit to Fletcher’s
classroom. Student Isaiah Lawson had nominated his teacher for the Teacher of the
Week award—and she was selected to be honored by STAR 101.5 radio. In addition to
the $100 check from Acura of Seattle at Southcenter, Fletcher received a personalized
plaque from Trophies2Go.com, a flightseeing trip for two from Kenmore Air and a prize
pack including an autographed Seahawks jersey from City University of Seattle.
Lincoln H.S. uses the reader
board to let everyone know of
Scottie Barnes’ first place win in
welding.
VIP visits Lister
Each student in Fletcher’s class received a goody bag with prizes from City University of
Seattle, McDonald’s, Kenmore Air, KOMO 4 and STAR 101.5.
Isaiah Lawton said he nominated his teacher because she helped him make new friends
and adjust to a new school. He had many friends at his old school, and it was not easy
to change schools.
Fletcher will also be entered in a drawing with 11 other Teachers of the Week. The
winner could win a $5,000 credit to City University of Seattle and a school assembly
with CityU spokesperson Seattle Seahawks Kelly Jennings.
Legislative aide to Senator Patty
Murray, Sarah Bolton, center,
visited Lister E.S. to learn about
its literacy program.
College Bound event April 17
STAR 101.5’s Teacher of the Week program allows students to recognize local,
deserving teachers for their commitment to a quality education for children. To nominate
a teacher, check the Web site at www.STAR1015.com.
PIO seeks TPS calendar photos
The theme for the 2010-2011 school “flip” calendar will be “Innovation.” The Public
Information Office is looking for high-quality photos which reflect this theme in Tacoma
Public Schools for use in the calendar. Please contact Pam Thompson at 253-571-1460
or e-mail her at pthomps@tacoma.k12.wa.us for more details. The photos will need to
be very crisp when enlarged to a full calendar page. They need to be saved at a
minimum of 300 dpi and e-mailed to Thompson for consideration by the PIO staff.
SOTAbots to compete in world robotic festival in Atlanta
Sixty-six high school robotics teams competed in the 2010 FIRST Robotics Competition:
Microsoft Seattle Regional at KeyArena March 26 –27. The Tacoma School of the Arts
(SOTA) team, SOTAbots, is one of six teams from across the state to advance to the
World Festival competition in Atlanta April 15–17. FIRST stands for For Inspiration and
Recognition of Science and Technology.
First Creek M.S. announce the
College Bound event at which
eligible middle school students
and their families can sign up for
state scholarships to go to college
if students still meet the criteria
when they graduate from high
school.
SOTAbots competed in six matches on Friday, March 26, and three on Saturday
morning before becoming one of six finalists Saturday afternoon. The SOTAbots
outfitted in brilliant yellow-green jumpsuits were hard to miss, and the team was not new
to the FIRST competitions. In 2008, SOTAbots claimed the title Rookie of the Year in
Atlanta.
FIRST robotics teams build and program a robot to play a version of high-tech soccer
against robots built by teams from other high schools. Ken Luthy, one of the team
coaches and a SOTA science teacher, said, “We have a really good robot this year, and
had enough parts left to make a second one to practice after the first was shipped to the
competition. SOTAbots team members spent long hours at school working on the robot
and test driving it.”
A SOTA math teacher and SOTAbots coach, Rich Williams said there are about 30
students on their team, and more than half the team members are girls. About 16
students and several parents plan to accompany Luthy, Williams and Jim Nelson, the
third coach who is in charge of security at SOTA, to Atlanta.
First Creek M.S. students can pick
up information about the College
Bound scholarships during lunch
at school.
Robotics teams compete
The students now must raise the funds to go to the international competition. “We need
donations to get the SOTAbots to Atlanta—and no amount is too small,” Luthy said.
“We owe a lot to the Bellarmine Preparatory School robotics team which mentor our
SOTA students. This year, our students mentored the Puyallup High School team.”
Even at the competition, teams help each other solve problems and fix the robots.
“Very enthusiastic SOTA students, parents and teachers showed up at KeyArena to
cheer our SOTAbots in Seattle,” Luthy said. “It really helped to know we had their
support during a competition.”
Foss students and advisor work
on the Foss robot.
Foss, Mount Tahoma and Wilson high schools also had teams competing in the regional
competition.
For more information on FIRST robotics competitions, visit the Web sitte at
www.usfirst.org.
McKinley students earn train ride to Portland May 4
McKinley has been provided the opportunity to participate in the Montgomery KOSS
(Keep Our Students Safe) Award program. Eugene Montgomery is a retired Amtrak
worker, and after retirement he wanted to help motivate children to achieve high social
and academic standards. He also knew children’s fascination with trains.
Working with Amtrak, Montgomery provides a school with the opportunity to recognize
Tacoma School of the Arts (SOTA)
students in yellow jumpsuits
check on their robot during
competition.
students who have worked towards these high standards of conduct and study habits.
Each school is able to send 28 students and six adults on a day-long train ride from
Tacoma to Portland. In addition, students are recognized in an assembly and receive a
T-shirt, trophy and certificate.
McKinley is one of the first two Tacoma schools to participate in the program, although
Montgomery’s program has been active in Federal Way and Kent for several years.
Northeast Tacoma Elementary School students will ride the train to Portland April 12.
For students to qualify for the selection process, they had to have no office referrals this
year, and must have read a chapter book a month. “We had so many kids who qualified
in fourth and fifth grades that the classes did a drawing for seven students from each
room,” said Principal Anita Roth.
SOTA students assemble their
robot.
First Creek co-presidents take the stage at the Paramount
First Creek Middle School co-presidents, Tae McKenzie and Selena Sok, stole the show
and hearts of the Puget Sound Business Hall of Fame inductees and Junior
Achievement audience of hundreds at the recent black-tie awards banquet at the
Paramount Theater in Seattle.
Tae and Selena practiced their lines for several weeks with Advisor Rachel Smith-Mosel
who helped them highlight their humor and sophistication. When it came time for their
drive to the Paramount for a day-long rehearsal, they were prepared. “Their poise,
timing and delightful on-stage banter with William S. Ayer, master of ceremonies and
CEO of Alaska Airlines, had observers convinced they were high school seniors, not
middle school eighth graders,” Smith-Mosel said.
Read full story
Washington State Honors Award nominations due April 16
Nominations for the 2009–2010 Washington State Honors Award will be accepted
through April 16. Eligible graduating seniors may be nominated for this award. The top
10 percent of nominated students will be chosen to receive an award. The top 3 percent
of students, per congressional district, who receive the Washington State Honors Award
will be invited to apply for the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship, which can be used
toward education costs at most colleges and universities in the nation.
Wilson H.S. students surround
their robot.
Stadium ProStart students
For more information, click here.
Dan Evans Civics Award nominations due May 14
Established by the Washington Legislature in 2003, the Daniel J. Evans Civic Education
Award is a high honor for Washington state students. Named after former Washington
Gov. Daniel J. Evans, this award showcases third- through 12-grade students for civic
leadership in their community and successful completion of a civics classroom-based
assessment (CBA).
Stadium H.S. students participate
in the recent ProStart culinary
competition.
Any student currently enrolled in a Washington public or private school may be eligible
for nomination for this award. A nominated student must meet the following criteria:
 Successful completion of a civics CBA
 Active in civic leadership within the school and/or the community
 Is enrolled in grades 3–12
Nominations can be made by teachers, principals, counselors or other school building
personnel. All students must be nominated using the OSPI nomination form; this form is
available on the OSPI Web site. Nominations must also include a copy of the student’s
completed civics CBA (the CBA may include the rubric and/or grading sheet, but is not
necessary).
Completed nominations must be postmarked on or before Friday, May 14. For more
information, click here.
Use “Supplies Now” to save on ink, toner
Stadium H.S. girls compete at a
ProStart competition.
Steve Demel, purchasing manager, said the district could potentially save more than
$160,000 annually by using the existing contract with vendor Supplies Now.
Two examples of savings using the Supplies Now contract:
The district has many HP Laser Jet 1300 printers. The HP cartridge (Q2613X) typically
sells for $101.99 plus tax. Supplies Now sells the district new Trend compatibles with
the same page count, guarantees and warranty as the HP (TRD2613X) for $32.84 plus
tax. That is a savings of more than $75, including tax.
The district has hundreds of HP Laser Jet 3390 printers. The HP cartridge (Q5949X)
typically sells for $145.99 plus tax. Supplies Now sells the district a Trend compatible
(TRD5949X) for $43.15 plus tax, for a savings of more than $110 including tax.
Demel said, “These savings are dramatic. Basically you could buy three Trend
cartridges for the price of one HP. We are in the second year of a three-year contract
and have had zero customer complaints about the Trend cartridges.”
To order, fill out the form at: http://www.suppliesnow.com/QuickCartForm.aspx and fax
to the vendor contact:
Bill McCloud,
Regional Sales Manager
Supplies Now, Inc.
Dayton, Ohio 45439
Direct: 888-750-5223 ext. 103
Fax: 800-949-3310
Web: www.suppliesnow.com
GSA Contractor: GS-02F-0229R
Applause
Milgard donates $3,000 to McKinley Elementary School
In honor of the 30 years that Milgard Doors and Windows and Alumco Inc. have been
business partners, Alumco donated $3,000 to each Milgard branch. Milgard’s Tacoma
branch has been a long-time supporter of McKinley Elementary School, and supports
the school through donations for special projects, tutoring and volunteerism. The
Tacoma Milgard branch chose to donate all of its $3,000 Alumco donation to McKinley.
McKinley staff, students and parents send Milgard a big “Thank You!” for its ongoing
support and this special recognition.—Principal Anita Roth, McKinley E.S.
Rotary 8 essay contest winners receive $100 prize
In celebration of its 100th year, Tacoma #8 Rotary Club, in community partnership with
Tacoma Public Schools, sponsored an essay-writing contest for all Tacoma high school
students. The theme of the essay incorporated the Rotary Club 4-Way Test code of
ethics:
Of the Things We think, Say or Do
1. Is it the truth?
2. Is it fair to all concerned?
3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
The goal was to encourage students to consider how they can use the 4-Way Test as a
guide to making positive choices and how living the test would affect their interactions
with others. Students were asked to write their thoughts in an essay that clearly and
creatively expressed how the principles of the test could impact their daily lives.
A team of teachers, coaches, administrators and Rotarians read and scored the entries
and selected four winners who each received a $100 prize at the Rotary Club luncheon
on March 25:
 Natasha Kieszling and Arielle Inveen from Stadium High School
Quick Links
Event Calendar
Job openings
News & Information
Policies & Procedures
Professional Development
Staff classifieds
Webucator
 Alexandrea Peterson from Tacoma School of the Arts
 Alexia Wright from Oakland High School
Hilltop Artists featured on King 5 Evening Magazine
If you tuned into King 5 Evening Magazine Monday, April 5, at 7 p.m., you were able to
see a segment featuring Hilltop Artists. King 5 visited the hot shop and interviewed
students and teachers about what it is like to be a part of Hilltop Artists. King 5 also had
a sneak peek of the new installation "The Nature of Glass" in the Seymour Conservatory
in Tacoma's Wright Park.
Using glass art to connect young people from diverse cultural and economic
backgrounds to better futures is what the Hilltop Artists is about. Check the Web site
at www.hilltopartists.org for more information.
Certified school nurse serves on national board
Joyce Ells, national certified school nurse, is serving a two-year term on the National
Board for Certified School Nurses, which meets in June and December.
From the Web site: Professional certification provides an ongoing, quality credentialing
process for eligible school nurses. Certification assures a national standard of
preparation, knowledge, and practice. The National Board for Certification of School
Nurses (NBCSN) endorses the concept of voluntary certification by examination for all
school nurses. Professional certification in school nursing provides an ongoing, quality
credentialing process for eligible school nurses. Certification represents a national
standard of preparation, knowledge, and practice. To assist with this recognition, the
NBCSN provides the opportunity for school nurses to set the standards for their
specialty area through voluntary professional certification.
Ells became a school nurse in 1997 and received her national certification in 2004.
School nurses must recertify every five years. Certification shows that the school nurses
have high standards and provide quality care to children and staff in school.
She is also a national trainer for school emergencies triage training that includes such
emergencies as floods and tornadoes.
Prior to becoming a school nurse, Ells served four years in the Air Force as a labor and
delivery nurse.
First Creek shows skills at MESA Day
Two First Creek Middle School Eagles showed their math and science skills at Pacific
Lutheran University’s MESA Day. Sixth graders Maira Talevera and Blanca Leon
excelled at the event. Club advisor Ruth Knighten said, "Maira won three second-place
ribbons in the craft stick bridge competition and both girls earned their way to the state
competition at Intel on May 22. They will present their project Wind-Powered Energy:
Windmill.”
Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) is a program designed to
increase the number of underrepresented and women students in mathematics,
engineering and science professions—fields that currently attract a small percentage of
African Americans, Hispanics, American Indians and women.
MESA is just one of a variety of student clubs at First Creek Middle School that include
Art Explorers, Green Team, Bale Latino, Latin Dance and Music Club.
Downing’s “Hearts for Haiti” a success
Downing Elementary School’s Associated Student Body (ASB) sponsored a “Hearts for
Haiti” campaign from Feb. 22 to March 9. For every dollar a student contributed, the
child received a heart that he or she could sign and then put up around the building.
“It didn’t take long before hearts were everywhere,” said teacher Eileen McCaffery-Lent.
“When the last cent was counted, the ASB was able to contribute $1,003.76 to the Red
Cross for disaster relief in Haiti.” The top two classes were Patty Freese’s second-grade
class and McCaffery-Lent’s GATE class.
Special thanks to parents Joy Hara and Julie Lovitt, who made all of our hearts, and to
office staff members Sue Duray and Barb Bowman for counting the money. Most
importantly, thank you to the wonderful Downing community for generously responding
to the needs of others.—Eileen McCaffery-Lent and Caroline Kyle, ASB moderators.
Health information
Premera/WEA incentive for district employees
There is still time for employees with WEA Select Medical coverage to take the online
WebMD HealthQuotient assessment and qualify for $50. The last day of the campaign
is April 11, and incentives are available for the first 10,000 eligible plan participants.
Employees with WEA Select Medical can visit www.premera.com/wea, click on the
banner at the top of the page and follow the prompts. The assessment only takes about
20 minutes to complete, but before you take the assessment be sure you know your
numbers. The numbers you should know are: blood pressure, cholesterol, (HDL, LDL
and triglycerides) height, weight and how many visits you made to the hospital and/or
physicians. The more information you can provide the more valid your results will be.
Professional development
ESS training sessions scheduled
Two Employee Self Service (ESS) overview sessions have been scheduled. Please
share the following information with all staff at your work location.
 April 14, 4 to 4:30 p.m., PDC Room 1, or
 April 21, 4 to 4:30 p.m., PDC Room 1
This class is an overview of the districts' new Employee Self Service payroll and
benefits feature referred to as ESS. The district will soon be using a paperless payroll
system (no more paper check stubs). Learn how to access your pay check information,
benefits, leave balances, etc., online.
This session is for those who missed the training at their work location or would like
another overview of how the system works.
Please note that this is information only with no PEP credit or clock hours. However,
employees who have individual inservice hours left may use those for pay to attend if on
non-work time. Employees must sign in at the session to receive inservice hours pay.
Tech tips
Resources on Instructional Technology Web site
Have you explored the resources available on the Instructional Technology (IT) Web
site? Staff members add information regularly, so frequent visits are encouraged. Here
are some items you might want to explore:
 SMART Lesson Library—a place to share Notebook lessons with Tacoma Public
School colleagues
 Upcoming technology professional development classes—a quick and easy way
to see what IT is offering
 New projects such as online trainings in the form of webinars
 Links to other online resources like Atomic Learning and SWIFT manager
 Online Help—online grades, manuals, tech tips, etc.
 Video Tutorials—link at the very bottom of the page
Find IT from the district home page through Departments and Programs, through the
Staff page, or use IT’s shortcut of TPSIT.org.
Commuting news
Participate in ‘May is Bike Month’ activities
The City of Tacoma, Pierce Transit, and several other partners including Downtown: On
the Go! have planned a month of events, activities and incentives to encourage even
the most reticent bicyclist.
The month kicks off with the second annual Tacoma Bike Swap at the University of
Puget Sound Saturday, May 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bring your bike: sell it, swap it or
just come to browse. Vendors will also be on site selling their bicycle-related wares.
Visitors to last year’s bike swap numbered 500, and it is hoped that this year’s event will
double that number.
More great Bike Month events take place May 17 through May 21 during the annual
Bike to Work Week Commuter Challenge. Register your bike commute at
www.PierceTrips.com and be eligible to win gift certificates to your favorite local bike
shop for $100 to $250.
Also visit the morning commute stations at a different local bike shop each day to snack
on pastries, enjoy refreshments and talk with other commuters. And, if you like movies
(especially movies about bikes), consider attending any one of the three Bike Month
movie series offered throughout Bike to Work Week—May 19 at The Red Hot, May 20
at The Tacoma Art Museum, and May 22 at The Grand Cinema.
Finally, attend the Downtown: On the Go! Bike Commuter Picnic and Fashion Show at
Wright Park. The first 75 cyclists receive a free boxed lunch. Spend the lunch hour
talking with other cyclists, eating in the warmth of the May sun and watching a very
unique bike fashion show. Additional events and details are on the Web site at
www.PierceTrips.com.
Community opportunities
Queer and Allied Educators Network April 14
The Tacoma Public Schools (TPS) Queer & Allied Educators Network meets at
Shakabrah Java, 2618 Sixth Ave. Tacoma, at 4 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each
month. Members support one another as they strive to make every school in TPS a
place where all families, students and staff are welcomed, supported and celebrated. All
are welcome—please stop by.
Autism Awareness fundraiser April 15
“Enjoy good food, good drinks and good company, all while supporting a great cause—
autism awareness,” said Kalissa Hovey, K-2 autism teacher at Franklin Elementary
School.
On April 15, from 3 p.m. to closing, The Hub in Tacoma will host a fundraiser for autism.
Live music will be available from 6 to 9 p.m.
Three ways to help:
1. Purchase a $10 wristband. The entire $10 from these wristbands will go to
Autism Speaks. This wristband will get you Happy Hour prices from 3 p.m. until
closing restaurant wide. You can purchase a wristband ahead of time from a
member of team For Tacoma’s Kids or at The Hub. You can also purchase a
wristband at The Hub on April 15.
2. Order off the regular menu. The Hub will be donating 10 percent of all regular
menu food purchases made between the hours of 5 and 9 p.m.
3. Bid on items in a silent auction such as a Relaxation Basket, handmade
children’s clothes, golf and other items. The silent auction will begin at 4:30 p.m.
and close at 8 p.m.
Did you know that:
 1 percent of the population of children in the U.S. ages 3–17 have an autism
spectrum disorder
 Prevalence of autism is estimated at 1 in 110 births
 1 to 1.5 million Americans live with an autism spectrum disorder
If you have questions or want to purchase a wristband, contact Kalissa Hovey at
khovey@tacoma.k12.wa.us or call 253-571-1767.
Puyallup Spring Fair April 15 to 18
While you are at the Spring Fair, check out Pierce County’s exhibit exploring sustainable
living in the Centennial Building.
More than 50 exhibitors will feature businesses, government agencies, nonprofit
organizations and cutting edge products. The exhibit will focus on living green in your
home, office and community April 15 to 18 at the Puyallup Fair and Events Center.
“Fair goers will discover new green technologies, ways to recycle, renewable energy
and sustainable living”, said Livable Communities Fair Manager Diane Ladenburg,
assistant to Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy. “There will be lots of fun hands-on
activities for the whole family.” This exhibit is a continuation of the Livable Communities
Fair sponsored by the county every two years.
"We’ll reach even more people at the Spring Fair. Imagine 100,000 people being
inspired and taking a specific action that makes a difference in their home or
community," Ladenburg said. "If that were to happen—and we believe it's possible—we
can attain sustainability."
Additional information also is available at www.livablepiercecounty.org.
TPU extends essay contest deadline to April 19
Tacoma Public Utilities is extending the deadline for the Tacoma Fix a Leak Week
writing contest to Monday, April 19. Students do not have to find an actual leak and
repair it to be eligible to write a story and win a prize.
The task of looking for a leak is an important first step in saving water so TPU welcomes
stories about students who searched for leaks but unfortunately did not find one to
repair, said Randy Stearnes, TPU, community relations officer, Community and Media
Services.
For more information on the Fix a Leak contest, contact Stearnes at 253-502-8224 or email him at rstearne@cityoftacoma.org.
Sign up for free Cable 101 workshop April 20
Sign up for Cable 101: Family Friendly TV Tuesday, April 20, at 7 p.m. Join Click! Cable
TV experts and our special guest, Dr. Kendra C. Robertston, for a free hands-on
workshop at the Tacoma Public Utilities Administration Building auditorium, 3628 S. 35 th
St., Tacoma. The workshop will cover special family-focused features available on your
Click! Cable TV remote and digital receiver.
Seating is limited. Call to reserve your seat today at 253-502-8900. Click here for more
information.
Free brain series event at Bates April 27
The public is invited to a free brain series event featuring Dr. John Medina April 27, from
7 to 9 p.m. at Bates Technical College. Dr. Medina is a very engaging, entertaining
speaker full of information and enthusiasm for his subject. All ages of learners will
benefit from hearing his talk. Learn how brain sciences influence the way we teach and
learn. Dr. John Medina gives a talk based on his latest book, Brain Rules: 12
Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home and School. Explore the 12 rules
and hear about Medina’s compelling ideas and research.
Please bring your friends. Click here for more information.
Reader’s Outlet offers teacher discount
Teachers will receive a 15 percent discount at Reader’s Outlet when they shop from
Saturday, April 10, to Sunday, April 18, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., provided they use the coupon
included in the flyer or on the Web site at www.readersoutlet.com. Seniors and nonprofit organizations will receive a 10 percent discount. Click here for the flyer with more
details and the coupons. The huge book sale will take place at 2522 S. 38th St., next to
Borders. Call 253-444-7224 for more information.
Tacoma School District complies with all federal and state laws and regulations and
does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual
orientation, national origin, or ancestry, the presence of any sensory, mental or
physical disability or use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a
disability, age, familial or marital status, honorably discharged veteran or military
status. This applies to all educational programs and extra-curricular activities. Inquiries regarding the application
of the above should be directed to Laurie Taylor, assistant superintendent, Human Resources, telephone 253571-1252. Inquiries regarding the application of Title IX should be directed to Jennifer Kubista, director of
Athletics and Activities, telephone 253-571-1123. Inquiries regarding the application of Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act (concerning students with disabilities who are not eligible for special education) should be
directed to Barbara O’Rorke, executive director, Special Education, telephone 253-571-1224. Inquiries regarding
accommodations for disabled employees and the public should be directed to Leslie Nohr, Disability
Accommodations Office, telephone 253-571-1021. These individuals may be contacted by mail at P.O. Box 1357,
Tacoma, WA 98401-1357.