November 30, 2007
Vol I., Issue 13

  Around Campus

We’re back and working hard this week. Enjoy …

Last night the Midway atrium was transformed into a medieval castle for the Middle School’s first Madrigal Dinner. A first for the visual and performing arts department, our students played to a packed crowd. The seasonal dinner, decorations and, of course, the entertainment were wonderful!

Speaking of entertainment, at Upper Elementary assembly this morning, some fourth graders danced a Spanish jig roughly titled “the old man’s dance.” Look closely at who is leading the charge. Can’t quite identify them—ask one of our third and fourth graders. We’re sure ANY of them will be happy to fill you in on the secret.

The Winslow/Jackson pre-k class proved the older students weren’t the only ones who have fun at school. Following a trip to Tom Thumb on Wednesday to reinforce information learned in their food and nutrition studies, our little ones made "Stone Soup." Many of you might remember this exciting lesson from when you were in school!

Finally, if you get the chance to congratulate sophomore Alex Storey, you should. She has qualified for the state debate meet in her first year of competition. It’s quite an accomplishment.

  Hot Topic

Parish keeps up on technology. This is illustrated all over both campuses (see left where our 4-year-olds are learning sentence structure and reading comprehension via computer games.) However, the latest major technology purchase made by the School deals more with making sure our students return safely home and to the classroom.

The funny looking antennas that have been placed on top of the new athletic concession stand are actually part of a lightning detection system. It arrived last week and is almost ready for use. The system is designed to sound a loud warning horn if lightning strikes within 15 miles of our playing fields. It sounds for 30 seconds and then resets itself. The fields must be cleared for 20 minutes after the last siren blows.

We hope this latest addition to our sports complex gives you some added peace of mind as your children compete – not to mention the fact that you will probably be sitting in the stands!

  Parish PA

The recent Thanksgiving feast puts us in mind of all the work necessary to prepare, cook and serve lunch to hundreds of hungry students. Each day at the Hillcrest and Midway campuses, our CAFETERIA VOLUNTEERS generously offer their time to serve our children with a smile ... and a hint toward a healthy food choice!

During the 2007-2008 school year, more than 250 parents will give almost 2,000 volunteer hours to our lunch program! It’s fun; it shortens the waiting line, and it lowers labor costs. What could be better? So the next time you see a parent wearing an apron and plastic gloves, thank them for saving you money and making our school lunch a fun and friendly event.

Interested in volunteering? Contact Steve Levine, Gayle Placide, Oleta Salyards or Gillian Dixon.