WolfTRACKS - hmjacksonptsa.org

Wolf TRACKS
A HENRY M. JACKSON HIGH SCHOOL PTSA NEWSL ET T ER * FEBRUARY 2015 * VOLUME 21, ISSUE 5
THIS
Issue
President’s Message
2
Principal’s Message
3
Counselor Corner
4
School Scoop
10
Staff Spotlight
15
Class News
16
JHS PTSA
18
District News
19
Parent Resources
20
Bulletin Board
22
Help Wanted
24
Calendar
26
Back Talk
Touch pOINTS

LIF Days
Feb. 6, 13, 20 & 27

Pre-Reg Video, 2nd Per
February 23

5th Per Advisories
Begin
February 24

Free SAT for Juniors
February 25

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No School
Mid-Winter Break
February 2015
February 16 & 17
Message
PRESIDENT’S’:
This month we celebrate some important events.

Take the time to explore the importance of Black History Month.

Don’t forget to celebrate the one you love on Valentine’s Day.

Chinese New Year on February 19 will mark the year 4713 on the Chinese
calendar.

Keep your fingers crossed that the groundhog does not see his shadow on
February 2 so that we can start on an early spring.

And, of course, February 1 we will hopefully be celebrating with the Seahawks
as they bring home another Super Bowl victory.
February also marks the second half of the school year. Freshmen will feel a little
more settled, sophomores and juniors will be in the groove, and seniors will be
making preparations for graduation, prom, and the future. It’s an exciting time for
everyone.
Your PTSA is making plans for the future as well. We will be giving more funds to
teachers and staff through school and classroom grants. They will be announced at
the February general membership meeting.
We will also be looking for parents to step in to join our board of directors. If you
might be interested in a board position, or if you would like to nominate someone,
you can email us at [email protected]. We would be happy to share what
each role involves. The executive committee will meet at the April general membership meeting.
Your PTSA is looking forward to a great second semester. We are grateful to work
with Mr. Peters and the entire Jackson High administration team. We offer our continued support to the teachers and staff who do so much for our students in preparing
them for the future.
Happy February!
Denise Constantineau
PTSA President
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February 2015
Principal s MESSAGE’:
Timberwolf Families –
By the time you read this, the Seahawks will have hopefully won their second Super Bowl championship! As you’re likely aware, no team has appeared in consecutive Super Bowls since 2005 (ironically,
the last team was the New England Patriots). The season started off with some struggles for the
Hawks, but they maintained a growth mindset, continued in an environment of continuous
improvement, and they reconnected and strengthened their relationships with one another. This past summer, our
leadership team identified these as three major areas of Jackson’s focus for the year as well (click for a brief intro video).
In May of last year, Coach Pete Carroll met with Angela Duckworth, associate professor of psychology at the University of
Pennsylvania, who has gained notoriety with her research on the characteristic of “grit.” His experience with her was summarized in a Seattle Times article from earlier in the year. Angela Duckworth describes grit as “passion and perseverance
for very long-term goals. It’s having stamina…. It is sticking with your future, day in and day out. Not just for the week,
not just for the month, but for years…. Grit is living life like a marathon, not a sprint.” In her famous TED Talk video she
explains how she set out as a researcher to identify predictors of success. What she discovered was that rather than social
intelligence, good looks, physical health, or IQ, the most significant predictor of success is grit.
The Seattle Times article reminds us that “Carroll and the Seahawks are still looking for the same general qualities in players: competitiveness, resiliency, determination. Carroll has spouted those words for years, and they are not unique…. But
grit is now a defined part of the Seahawks’ lexicon, and it is an important factor in their hunt for players. They now have a
vocabulary for the values they’d always held. The Seahawks have even mined information from current players with grit to
see what their backgrounds might tell them about future players.”
Never giving up, believing that they can find a way, the Seahawks have given us memorable visual examples to clarify our
own thinking about growth mindset in the face of challenge and opportunity.
Smarter Balanced Testing
This year all sophomores and juniors will be taking one or more of the Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBA). Sophomores
will take the English Language Assessment (ELA) and juniors will take both the ELA and Math assessments. These tests will
assess the new Common Core State Standards. The SBA is given online. You as a parent/guardian can also help prepare your student for these new online assessments by having them practice the Training Tests at home. The Training
Tests introduce students to the online tools they will need to use on the actual assessment, which is given in May. You can
access the training tests by following the steps below.
1. Access the Washington Comprehensive Assessment Program (WCAP) website. The following link will take you
to this website: http://wa.portal.airast.org. You should bookmark this site and sign up for email alerts (upper right corner of the page).
2. Download a secure browser. You will need a secure browser to access the Training Tests. Click on the button entitled
“Secure Browsers” to see the list of secure browsers. The buttons at the bottom of the page allow you to download the
appropriate secure browser for your home operating system.
3. Click on the “Practice & Training Tests” button. Open the WCAP home page (see link above) using your secure
browser. Click on the “Practice & Training Tests” button on the right side of the page, then click on the “Take the Practice and Training Tests” button.
4. Sign in as a Guest. Click the “Sign In” button. Select 10 or 11 from the grade pull-down menu and press the “Yes”
button.
5. Select the Appropriate Training Test. Select either the ELA or Math Practice Test to learn about the tools for the
SBA. Your student should explore the tools for both the ELA and Math tests.
Thank you for sharing your student with us. It has been a terrific start to the spring semester!
Go Timberwolves!
Dave Peters
Principal, H.M. Jackson High School
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February 2015
COUNSELOR
Corner
Get a handle on JHS Counseling
on Twitter @TWolfCounseling
Coming Soon: Course Pre-Registration for the 2015-2016 School Year
The Counseling Department is excited to continue the course registration process that offers significant
improvements from previous years. Students will watch a pre-registration video in their 2nd period class on
February 23. The video will be about fifteen minutes long, and then teachers will hand out a personalized
registration Planning Guide to each student. The video will be available on our website for anyone who was
absent or who would like to review the information again. Parents/guardians can view the video as well so
they get first-hand knowledge about registration information. Please ask your student to review their preregistration paperwork with you. Students will be given the information they need to check their transcript
and determine what requirements they still need to take for graduation, pick their course requests and alternates, and log on to our online system to input their selections directly from home. The online system
will stay open from February 23–March 20. During this time students can input their course selections, and if
they change their minds (imagine that!), they can re-enter the system and change their course selections
(the system will close at 2:30 p.m. on March 20). We are hoping this will allow increased time for parents/
guardians to work with their students to make thoughtful course selections.
In the days following February 23, each student will have the opportunity to meet with THEIR counselor in
a small group to have individual questions answered. These sessions will take place during 5th period,
February 24–March 18. Phone calls will go out to homes the night before your student’s session; their 5th
period teacher will have a copy of the schedule. Your student’s counselor and another trained staff person will
meet with the small group to offer individualized course selection support.
For students who do not have Internet access or who are having difficulty with the online process, we will
have computers set up in the lunch area during both lunches the week of March 16. Counselors will be available to assist students with their registration. There will be a make-up day for any student who hasn’t registered by March 20.
The Counseling Department is pleased to offer this 2015-2016 registration process that decreases missed
instruction from current courses, increases assistance time with THEIR counselor, offers an extended time to
register online from home, and increases parental access to the steps for pre-registration.
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)
Juniors test free February 25
On February 25, 2015, Everett Public Schools will offer, at no cost, the SAT to all juniors. Registration took
place the end of January.
The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) is a widely-used college admissions exam. The SAT is composed of three
sections which measure a student’s knowledge and skill in the areas of critical reading, writing, and mathematics. When considered in conjunction with other measures, such as course history and grade-point average, SAT scores are useful in evaluating whether or not a student is academically prepared for college. In
addition to the core SAT of critical reading, writing (with optional essay), and mathematics, there are 20 SAT
Subject Tests in the areas of English, history, languages, mathematics, and science which students can take
to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in specific content areas. In some cases, colleges allow students to
fulfill core requirements or earn credit in core areas if they achieve high SAT Subject Test scores.
For free online daily practice, click Scholastic Aptitude Test.
You can find more information about the SAT here.
Click here to see SAT data reports for Everett Public Schools.
Source: Everett Public Schools
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February 2015
COUNSELOR
Corner
24-Hour Drug/Alcohol Help Line:
800-562-1240
10th and 11th Graders Prepare for the SBA
Smarter Balanced Assessment, May 2015
The State of Washington is transitioning to new assessments based on the Common Core State Standards
(CCSS). For sophomores and juniors, one of the new Common Core assessments is the Smarter Balanced
Assessment (SBA). Juniors will be tested in English Language Arts (ELA) and Math. Sophomores will be tested
in Math.
Although Jackson High will be providing practice for the SBA in school, it can be helpful for students to practice
outside of school.
Learn about the Smarter Balanced Assessment by viewing the following video webinar. It includes an overview
of the SBA, describes the assessments, and provides an excellent step-by-step tutorial for student practice.
A Parent’s Guide to Smarter Balanced Assessment Practice Tests
Juniors will be able familiarize themselves with the SBA English Language Arts (ELA) and Math tests by
practicing online. Sophomores can also practice for the SBA ELA online.
Related Information on the Smarter Balanced Assessments
and 2014-15 State Assessments for All Grades:
Everett Public Schools Department of Assessment and Research
Everett Public Schools News Release, January 6, 2015, “What do you know about the new state tests?”
Parents’ Guide to New Assessments in Washington, National PTA
Principal’s Message, January 2015 Wolf Tracks e-newsletter, page 3
FAFSA 2014-2015
Free Application for Federal Student Aid: https://fafsa.ed.gov/
Federal Deadline
Online applications must be submitted by midnight Central Time, June 30, 2015.
Any corrections or updates must be submitted by midnight Central Time, September 19, 2015.
State Deadline
Washington: As soon as possible after January 1, 2015. Awards made until funds are depleted.
College Deadline
Check with the college(s) you are interested in attending. You may also want to ask your college about its
definition of an application deadline—whether it is the date the college receives your FAFSA or the date your
FAFSA is processed.
7 Things You Need Before You Fill Out the FAFSA
The FAFSA is simpler than ever! It takes an average of 21 minutes to complete. Having the information you
need to fill out the application will assure a smoother process. Below is the information you will need to fill out
the FAFSA:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Your Federal Student Aid PIN*
Your Social Security number
Your driver’s license
Your tax records*
Records of your untaxed income*
Records of all your assets (money)*
List of the school(s) you are interested in attending
*Access the complete article for details.
Source: HOMEROOM, The Official Blog of the U.S. Department of Education
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5
February 2015
COUNSELOR
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Corner
6
February 2015
COUNSELOR
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Corner
7
February 2015
COUNSELOR
Corner
2015-16 AP Courses Offered at JHS
AP Seminar
Biology
Calculus AB
Calculus BC
Chemistry
Computer Science A
English Language
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English Literature
Environmental Science
French Lang/Culture
German Lang/Culture
Macroeconomics
Microeconomics
Physics I
8
Psychology
Spanish Lang/Culture
Statistics
Studio Art 2D/3D
US Gov’t & Politics
United States History
World History
February 2015
COUNSELOR
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Corner
9
February 2015
SCHOOL
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Scoop
10
February 2015
SCHOOL
Scoop
PTSA Reflections Contest:
“The world would be a better place if...”
Congratulations to our Jackson High students for their participation in the 2014-15 PTSA Reflections Art
Contest. The theme for this year’s competition was “The world would be a better place if…” Artwork was
collected from across the Everett PTSA Council and judged in the areas of visual art, writing, photography,
music composition, dance choreography, film production, and the special artist category. All of the first place
pieces at the council level will be moving on to the state level of competition for further judging and the chance
to move on to the nationals this spring.
JHS PTSA is proud of the following students for their recognition from the Everett PTSA Council:
Elijah D. Crooker, First Place Photography, “Pop”
Alexis Nims, Second Place Photography, “Beauty with No Filter”
The theme for next year has been announced! “Let your imagination fly.”
“Pop” by Elijah D. Crooker
“Beauty with No Filter” by Alexis Nims
Noteworthy News from National Honor Society
Oi oi oi! From January 9–20, Australians invaded Jackson from Down Under! The Aussies partook in a variety
of activities during their stay in Washington; these ranged from visiting the Premium Outlet Malls in Tulalip,
watching the Silvertips in Everett, and witnessing Seattle’s 12th Man love at the Space Needle. Over 30
Australians were hosted this year, and NHS would like to give another thank you to all the families that were
able to accommodate our guests. On January 19, NHS hosted a good-bye potluck for the Aussies and their
hosts. This event gave everyone one last chance to let loose and have fun before the Aussies had to depart.
In the end, there were stuffed bellies, lots of laughs, and absolutely no leftovers.
January also marked the end of the first semester, meaning volunteer service logs were due. Potential members turned in their 10+ hours of community service along with proof of leadership. Those who meet the
criteria will soon be inducted into National Honor Society and become full-fledged members!
“There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.”
Happy Valentine’s Day!
JHS National Honor Society
Silent Reading & Working Lunch
For quiet leisure and study
Friday, February 13
JHS Library
Sign up in the library
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February 2015
SCHOOL
Scoop
Immersing Students in German for over 40 Years!
Deutschlager, March 13-14
What is Deutschlager? It means German camp. The AATG (American Association of Teachers of German)
supports a core group of German teachers who have been keeping this tradition alive for over 40 years.
Why a German camp? Unlike Spanish, and to some extent French (think proximity with Canada), it is difficult
for students of German to find opportunities to be surrounded by the German language. So, many years ago, a
group of German teachers got together and came up with an idea to give students of German a taste of immersion. The camp has taken place every year since! And you would be surprised at the results! Even two days of
immersion in a language can increase both speaking and listening proficiency.
Okay, where is it? Well, the location of the camp has changed—for many years it was held at Camp Waskowitz,
a former CCC camp near North Bend. After Highline School District sold that property, the German camp moved
to Camp Don Bosco in Carnation. Both camps have rustic cabins in the foothills of the Cascades.
So what happens at immersion camp? First off, being German teachers, there is a lot of planning and preparation so that everything runs smoothly! Feedback from every camp is taken after camp—and used in making
relevant changes. Teachers from schools all over Washington State bring up to 10 students, usually from the
upper levels (German 3 and 4), but highly motivated German 2 students are also welcome.
Students sign a contract and promise to only speak German for the duration (two days) of the camp. The clock
starts when the doors to the van open! The day starts with lunch, pre-selected teams get introduced (minimizes
students from the same school “hanging out”), and the fun begins. There are competitions, crafts, cooking,
eating, singing, dancing, skits, movies, games, hiking, soccer—all done in the target language. Even the signs
at the camp are “auf Deutsch.”
Please check out the video made by a student from Mariner High School:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fiW0KPNktQI
If you are a native speaker of German and are a district volunteer, we are always looking for aides to help out
one or both days. Please email Frau Dietsch ([email protected]).
Deutschlager 2015 will take place March 13-14.
“Do you speak German? But of course!”
Mill Creek Rotary Students of the Month
Congratulations to Ben Lee, the Mill Creek Rotary Fine Arts student for the month of December, 2014.
Congratulations to Callie VanAelst, the Mill Creek Rotary Scholar Athlete for the month of January, 2015.
Ben Lee with
Assistant
Principal Amanda
Irtz Summers
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Callie VanAelst
with Assistant
Principal Blythe
Young
12
February 2015
SCHOOL
Scoop
Jackson High Learning Center Specialist Develops
Training Standards for Teachers and Administrators
She says it’s scary but exciting. Jean Sarcletti, JHS Learning Center Specialist, serves our state on the Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB), SB 5179 Sub-Committee #4, developing training standards for effective, legal, and cooperative use and supervision of para-educators for teachers and administrators to implement
in their classrooms and schools.
The other three committees are creating a career ladder for para-educators that will include certification as well
as endorsements for certain specialized areas, setting standards that are appropriate and legally aligned. The
PESB Work Committee sent 13 recommendations to the state for approval.
In April, Ms. Sarcletti will join three other para-educators from the state who will represent the Public School
Service Employees Union on a SB 6129 presentation panel at the Conference for Hiring and Employment of
Para-Educators being held in Hartford, CT. This opportunity is unique, and they are hopeful it will be a catalyst
to open doors for para-educators in states where there are none. Ultimately, Ms. Sarcletti’s work is a win for
para-educators and, most of all, the students with whom they work.
FYI from the Student Senate
February 11: There will be a guest speaker at the Care Week Assembly on February 11.
(Care Week, March 2-6)
February 12: Applications for an Open Campus Pass are due. Pick up second semester parking stickers at lunch
from Coach Nick, February 18 and 19 only. NO EXCEPTIONS.
February 13: Father-Daughter Dance with Princess theme. Flyers were distributed to elementary schools. Ready
to advertise!
February 21: Practice SAT sponsored by the Class of 2017 in partnership with Sylvan Learning. Info on page 22.
March 19: Mr. JHS, male beauty pageant. Senior guys only. Applications due March 6.
May 15: Staff Talent Show
Spring Dance is in the works. No theme or details yet, so ignore all rumors!
2015-2016 ASB officer election information coming soon.
NEW! Orchestra Club! Info coming soon.
NEW! Game Club! Run by Mr. Freeman; students may drop in after school to play anything from video games to
board games for the cost of a nickel/day. Dates and other info coming soon!
NEW! Random Acts of Kindness Week Club! Recruiting members to help start the club and elect officers.
Jackson News Network (JNN) is now officially online. A final print of the stiqayu will come out in a couple of
weeks, and there will be a June issue featuring JHS seniors. This is the 20th year for the stiqayu.
All the latest ASB information is posted for students on the Student Scoop board located in the ASB foyer
outside the Commons.
Respectfully submitted,
Sarah Christopher
Senior Class Congress
JHS PTSA Student Representative
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February 2015
SCHOOL
Scoop
Dance Team
Jazz corps returns
The dance team participated in their first competition in early January. The team reprised the Jazz team after
six years of it being solely a Hip Hop team and brought home 2nd place in the dance category and 4th place
in hip hop!
Aireal Hart
JHS Dance Coach
Youth Development Program Graduates
Eight students from Jackson High were among 25 students across Snohomish County to complete an eightweek course on skills for success in the American workplace. They had spent most of the previous eight Saturdays learning about financial literacy, how to make an “elevator pitch,” public speaking, and other skills
often left out of standard school curriculums.
The Youth Development Program is run by the Snohomish county branch of the National Association for the
Advancement of Colored People and Everett Community College. Jackson High congratulates Rahima
Ahmed, Alika Brooks, Destiny Dawkins, Ty McGregor, Mikresaiassie Paulos, Mario Senter, Emanuel
Smith, and Timothy Taylor.
Source: Everett Herald, December 8, 2014
Left to right: Alika Brooks, Rahima Ahmed,
Ty McGregor, Emanuel Smith, Mikresaiassie
Paulos, Timothy Taylor, Mario Senter, and
Destiny Dawkins
WIAA State Athlete of the Week
Congratulations to Conner McGinnis for being named a WIAA State Athlete
of the Week for the week of January 18-24, 2015!
If you didn’t see the stats recently, the Jackson boys swim team beat Kamiak,
100–70, breaking Kamiak’s 103-win streak. Conner qualified for State in the
100 Fly and the 100 Back. Way to go, Conner!
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February 2015
STAFF
Spotlight
We want to know about YOU…
...Alyssa Campbell
Department (if you are a teacher, what classes are you teaching this year?):
I work in Student Services.
How long have you been at Jackson? Almost a year!
Where did you go to school? Richland High School; Seattle Pacific University; UW Bothell
What is your teaching philosophy (in a nutshell)? Every student matters!!!
What was your first job? McDonald’s
Tell us a little about your family at home. Kids? Cats? Dogs? Married with five kids (two boys,
9 & 10, are mine; the three older, 13/16/18, are his)! We also have two dogs, Roxy the Rat Terrier
and Kona the Italian Greyhound, and one calico kitty named Twilight but we call her Meowzi.
Hobbies: Reading, travel, “glamping,” movies, music, cooking… Is food a hobby? I love food!
Favorite TV show and/or movie: TV: Walking Dead & Game of Thrones; movie: Princess Bride
Favorite book or book that you are reading right now: Plain Truth by Jodi Picoult is a fave, but
I LOVE books, so I have many favorites and always enjoy finding new ones!!
How do you order your coffee? Grande White Chocolate Americano with a little cream
Favorite vacation spot: Cancun, Mexico (where I went on my honeymoon last July—glorious!!)
Favorite sport team: SEAHAWKS!!!!
Favorite holiday: My birthday! ;-D
Favorite food: Yes
Other language(s) you speak: Igpay Atinlay
If you could have a super power, what would it be? I already do—it’s called being a working
mom!! I can multi-task, be in two places at once, have x-ray vision, sonic hearing, crazy strength,
know how to fix anything, and can fly when necessary! (Where’s my cape …?!)
If you could spend a day with someone famous (living or not), who would he/she be?
Tough question! I admire strong, passionate women; probably Maya Angelou!
What is something about you that most people do not know?
I absolutely hated high school!!
What advice would you like to give to the students and/or
parents? We all have a story, some issue or struggle that we go through,
and judging others when we don’t know the details damages relationships
and tears people down. The more we work to lift each other up, the better
things become for everyone. It truly takes a “village” to raise a child and
grow responsible, productive members of society. Our teachers have the
hardest job there is—so we need to do our best to let them know how much
we appreciate them and the way they support and invest in our kids!
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February 2015
CLASS
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News
16
February 2015
CLASS
News
Attention Class of 2016 Parents
Tickets are on sale now for the Class of 2016 Graduation Party. This is an action filled all-night drug- and alcohol-free
celebration held after graduation ceremonies. If you would like your student to be able to attend this JHS tradition, we ask
that you please make your initial installment payment (or full payment) at this time.
SAVE $40 with Early Bird tickets!
Early bird tickets are now on sale for $180. This can be paid in three installments of $60 or payment in full.
 1st payment due September 30, 2014
 2nd payment due December 31, 2014
 3rd payment due March 31, 2015
Tickets go to $220 on April 1, 2015. This can be paid in installments or payment in full.
 1st payment of $75 due May 31, 2015
 2nd payment of $75 due September 30, 2015
 3rd payment of $70 due January 15, 2016
As an added fundraising opportunity, this year the 2015 JHS Parent Group will be sharing concession stands with the 2016
Parent Group. Please send your name to [email protected] if you would like to help out with concessions during the
various sporting events.
Make checks payable to 2016 JHS Parent Group.
Mail to:
2016 JHS Parent Group
1211 144th St. SE
Mill Creek, WA 98012
(Cut on or above the line and send in this form with your payment)
Student Name: __________________________________________________________ Student ID:
Parent or Guardian Name: _________________________________________________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Phone Numbers: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
Parent Email: _______________________________________________________________________________________________
Amount Paid:
Check No.: _____________________________
Class of 2016
Grad Party!
 Unable to pay at this time but would like to attend. ______________________________
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February 2015
JHS
PTSA
Focus Day Round-up
Nearly 500 people turned out in Olympia to represent Washington State PTA. It was sunny for the rally on the steps of
the Legislative Building with great speakers and the 12’s flag flying high above.
Denise Constantineau, student representative Sarah Christopher, Michelle Nims, Laura Gothro, Laura Peterson,
and Toni Wilson represented Jackson High School PTSA. We were able to meet with District 44 House Representatives
Hans Dunshee and Mark Harmsworth, who pledged their support for education funding for the whole child. This year PTA
included “Increased Access to Higher Education” as part of the top 5 priorities for the 2015-2016 legislative sessions.
What can you do? Stay connected with information from Olympia at Grassroots Connection. You can also sign up as
our Armchair Advocates at Action Alerts. These alerts would be sent to you when there is a need to contact your legislators to ask that they support issues. Please take a moment and sign up today!
Choose to Support Jackson High School PTSA
Student Planners: Monies raised through business sponsorships and planner sales go toward school and classroom grants. If
your student still needs a planner, please contact Angela Steck, VP Ways & Means, at [email protected].
Become a JHS PTSA Member: Your membership supports school, district, and state endeavors which provide students and
teachers with enrichment and scholarships for secondary education as well as advocacy for youth and families. Your membership fees are tax deductible! Anyone can join the PTSA—students, parents, staff, and community citizens.
Pass the Hat (one-time donation): On our PTSA membership form there is a space where you may designate a one-time
tax deductible donation to the PTSA. These monies support Jackson High School programs as well as classroom and school
grants.
Company Match: If you work for Microsoft, Boeing, or another employer that participates in a company-match program,
please note this on your JHS PTSA membership form or inquire with your Human Resources (HR) Department to process your
matching contribution. Please be sure that the matching fund donation is made payable to the Henry M. Jackson High (JHS)
PTSA, which is an IRS 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. To obtain the JHS PTSA’s EIN number, please contact Treasurer
Michelle Nims at [email protected].
Merchant Reward Cards: Sign up today and Bartell Drugs, Safeway, Fred Meyer, and Target will donate a percentage of your
purchase amount to Jackson High PTSA.
Bartell Drugs: http://escrip.com/merchants/identity/bcaringcard/index.jsp
Safeway: http://www.escrip.com/safewaystores/safeway/index.jsp
Target: https://www-secure.target.com/redcard/tcoe/home or 1-800-316-6142
Fred Meyer Community Rewards Program: http://www.fredmeyer.com/company_information/FM_Community/Pages/
community_rewards.aspx
Thank you! Your support makes a difference!
Shop at Fred Meyer = Earn $$ for Our PTSA
Earn donations for Henry M. Jackson PTSA just by shopping with your Fred Meyer Rewards Card!
At the end of each quarter, Fred Meyer will make a donation to participating non-profits based on
the accumulated spending of the Rewards customers linked to each non-profit.
Rewards customers still get the Rewards points, fuel points, and rebates earned with their Rewards
membership AND get to raise funds for their school!
3 EASY STEPS TO GET STARTED
1. You can link your Rewards Card online at Fred Meyer’s Community Rewards Page:
https://www.fredmeyer.com/account/create
2. You will be asked to log in to your online account or create an online account.
3. At that point you will be able to search for Henry M Jackson PTSA by typing 86840 (in search box under FIND
YOUR ORGANIZATION).
This is an ongoing program and you may enroll at any time. Ask your neighbors, friends, and extended family to link
their Rewards Cards and support our school.
Thank you for your continued support of H. M. Jackson PTSA and our painless fundraisers!!
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February 2015
District NEWS
Free Tax Preparation
United Way certified volunteers offer FREE tax preparation for qualified families at North Middle
School, 2514 Rainier Ave., in Everett.
Beginning January 20 through April 14, you can have your basic individual tax return completed
on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., in the North
Middle School cafeteria. Please arrive 30 minutes prior to closing; no appointment necessary.
Be sure to bring a valid picture ID, current Social Security cards or taxpayer ID numbers for all
family members and dependents, W-2s, child care provider information, as well as current bank
account information in order to receive an electronic refund. Call 2-1-1 or visit the United Way
website for more information.
Celebration of Innovation, February 25
Join students for the annual Celebration of Innovation at Cascade High School from 6 to 8 p.m.
Students will showcase examples of gaining insight and solving problems through technology, and
teachers using technology to enhance instruction.
Access Your Teacher’s Website from a Smartphone
Use this nifty help sheet for accessing teacher websites with a smartphone.
Did You Know?
Lots of valuable information about how our school is helping students achieve is available online.
Our School Performance Report is linked directly from our school’s home page. (Look under QuickLinks for a link to OSPI Washington State School Report Card.) At that site you can browse
through historical performance data for more than a decade—for any school in the district or the
state. By following the prompts on that OSPI website, you can also find current and historical data
aggregated at the district level.
Do You Know Someone in the Class of 2019?
This year’s eighth-grade students will graduate in 2019. The class of 2019 is the
first class that must meet the state’s new 24-credit high school graduation
requirement. Learn more on the district website.
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February 2015
PARENT
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Resources
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February 2015
PARENT
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Resources
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February 2015
BULLETIN
Board
Kudos!
Staff Appreciation
Please share with the parents how much we enjoyed the lunch last week (January 14).The comfort food,
given the time of year, was so appreciated. Everyone was delighted to completely overeat with all the
amazing choices! Thank you so much!
Susan Brown
Teacher, English and Creative Writing
Staff Representative, JHS PTSA
Cheers, Mate!
Another memorable visit from 30 students and staff from Australia was made possible because of the kindness of the many families who opened their homes to host the guests. For 11 days, the Aussies immersed in
the culture of the Pacific Northwest soaking in what it’s like to go to school at Jackson High, live with an
American family, and experience our local sports, sites, and even a little shopping. Cheers to the generosity
of the Jackson High families, staff, and students as well as the JHS National Honor Society for coordinating
this annual visit for our friends Down Under.
Community Resource Brochure
Click here to get the PDF version of this great resource tool that includes emergency assistance, food banks,
youth and adult programs, and so much more.
Source: Everett PTSA Council 7.3
Sylvan SAT Offered at JHS
Saturday, February 21
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
JHS Library
Sylvan Learning Center, in conjunction with the Class of 2017, is providing students the valuable opportunity to take a practice SAT for just $10.
This is a fantastic chance for students to experience taking the “real thing” by testing on a previously used
SAT that has been retired. There is no risk to taking the test; scores do not go on the student’s record. The
test is followed by a “Results Night” on Thursday, March 11, 2015, at 7 p.m. in the JHS library.
Students and parents will receive an individualized folder and have the opportunity to meet with Sylvan
staff to review results, identify strengths and weaknesses, and receive recommendations for improving SAT
scores.
This practice SAT is specifically targeted for juniors and sophomores who have not yet taken the SAT or
PSAT; however, ANY student may take it.
Deadline to sign up for this great opportunity is Thursday, February 19, 2014. Payment of $10 is due to
the JHS ASB office at the time registration. The JHS ASB office is open before school, during lunches, and
after school. All funds raised for the practice SAT go to the Class of 2017.
Students should bring a calculator, snacks, and a drink to the testing. Sylvan will provide pencils and
erasers.
For questions, please contact Sheryl Mason at [email protected] or (425) 385-7189.
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February 2015
BULLETIN
Board
Celebration of Innovation
Wednesday, February 25, 6-8 p.m.
Cascade High School Gym
This annual Everett Public Schools
Student Technology Fair will feature 21st
century lessons students have experienced using technology as a vehicle.
Students from all grades will showcase
their work. Be prepared to be illuminated
by the many innovative projects!
World Citizen Essay Contest
In our increasingly interconnected world, it is
important to be informed of issues and events
around the globe in order to better understand
and engage with the people around us. If you
were a foreign news correspondent, where would
you like to be assigned? What story would you
cover and how would you gather the necessary
information? Why do you think this is an
important story to tell? If you were a foreign
news correspondent, how would you tell the
stories where you are assigned to cover?
Students in grades 3-12 are encouraged to
enter this 16th World Citizen Essay Contest
sponsored by the World Affairs Council in
Seattle. Essays are due March 27.
acher
Access te
from
websites
tphone.
your smar
Ocean Career Day
@ The Seattle Aquarium
February 7, 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Students, parents, and educators are invited to learn more
about career, volunteer, and educational opportunities that
are available in the field of marine biology.
There will be three professionals speaking on their experience
in the field of ocean science. They will also be hosting a panel
on post-high school education options for those interested in
learning more in marine science.
A discounted admission rate of $7.00 is available to students
and teachers who pre-register online at
www.seattleaquarium.org/ocean-career.
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February 2015
Help WANTED
Scouting for a Few Good Wolf Mamas
Are you looking for a fun and rewarding way to be involved at Jackson?
Are you looking for a way to meet and connect with your student’s
teachers? Well, look no further. The PTSA is looking for a few good
women (or men) to assist with the monthly Staff Appreciation Lunches.
If you like to have a lot of fun, can turn on a crock pot, and have one
morning a month to spend with the JHS staff, then this might be just
your thing. Contact Michele at [email protected] for details.
Photo courtesy of Marina Smith.
Learn How You Can Make a Big Difference Helping
to Train the Next Generation Through TEALS
2015-2016 will bring year two of the TEALS program to the H. M. Jackson High
School student community. TEALS (Technology Education And Literacy in
Schools) is a grassroots program that recruits, mentors, and places high-tech
professionals who are passionate about computer science education into high
school classes as part-time teaching assistants. Volunteers are needed for the
2015-2016 school year: period 1, 7:30-8:25 a.m., and period 2, 8:30-9:25 a.m.
Information about this program can be obtained from the following website
http://www.tealsk12.org/apply/.
Darwin Schweitzer is a current TEAL volunteer: “I love giving back to JHS. All of my kids went through JHS and
it feels good to be able to give back. We all need to do what we can to encourage students in their study of
Computer Science.”
If you are interested in helping JHS with this program, please email Maggie Thorleifson
([email protected]).
A degree in Computer Science or equivalent industry experience is required.
TEALS is exciting as it has proven to be successful at so many schools in our area. This year our students have
had the benefit of TEALS volunteers in the classroom. We have grown from five to 30 students taking the
AP Computer Science Exam. Here is what some of the current students have to say about recommending
AP Computer Science to future students:
“The reason I took AP CS is because it’s like the closest thing to having super powers. You type in code and
commands and the program follows. You have an assortment of minions at your side. (in the Java language)”
“AP Computer Science is a very interesting class that teaches you computer skills. These skills could potentially
become useful in your later vocation. As long as you do your work, AP Computer Science should come easily.
The majority of it is having a good understanding of math.”
“If you are considering taking AP CS next year I highly recommend you take it if you have a serious ambition for
computer science or math related algorithms because this class will strengthen your foundation in both.”
“Computer science is a great thing to study because there are many career opportunities in the field and it is
very interesting. You can make so many things with code, the possibilities are endless!”
AP Computer Science helps students stand out from the pack on college and scholarship applications.
Please consider volunteering in the AP CS classroom—you decide the days that work for you!
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February 2015
Help WANTED
TSA Judges
February is officially Career/Technical Education month in Washington, and Jackson’s Technology Student
Association (TSA) would love your support! On Saturday, February 7, 2015, TSA chapters from all over Western
Washington will be competing here at Jackson to determine who is eligible to move on to state and, ultimately,
nationals. The events are:
Biotechnology Design (Forensics)
Career Preparation (cover letters, résumé and on-demand interviews for Aeronautical Engineer,
Computer Information Security Specialist Professional (CISSP), and Geographical Information
Systems (GIS) Analyst)
Children’s Story
Engineering Design (adaptive technology)
Essays on Technology (on-demand)
Extemporaneous Speech
Fashion Design (18th Century American Colonialism)
Manufacturing Prototype (children’s pull toy)
Music Production
On-Demand Video
Photographic Technology
Promotional Graphics (American Cancer Society)
Structural Design & Engineering (develop a design for a box girder support beam and rail bed for a
light rail system that could be used in any city in America)
Technology Problem Solving (on-demand)
We need YOU to be a judge! Anyone can participate. All events have clear, easy-to-use rules and rubrics for
scoring—no experience necessary. Students especially appreciate getting to perform at their best for educators,
professionals, and community leaders in and out of technical fields.
If you can donate your time for one or more events, please contact:
Rick Wigre: 425-385-7151 [email protected]
Judy Baker: 425-385-7062 [email protected]
Hygiene Products Drive
Support for Cocoon House
February 1-13
The Gay/Straight Alliance (GSA) is sponsoring a collection of travel-sized personal care items to donate to the
Cocoon House in Everett. Through outreach, housing, and prevention, Cocoon House empowers teens, families, and the community to break the cycle of homelessness.
Personal care products may include the following:
Toothpaste
Shampoo
Toothbrushes
Conditioner
Body wash
Lotion
Face wash
Feminine hygiene products
Cleansing towelettes Deodorant or antiperspirant
No products with alcohol, please, so no mouthwash.
Donations can be dropped off in the JHS main office. Look for the white shopping bag labeled with red
lettering.
The club’s goal is to collect 3000+ items! If you do business and/or leisure travel, please consider bringing
home the extra hotel shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and shower caps for this worthy cause. Questions can be
directed to Ms. Guffey, GSA Advisor, at [email protected].
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February 2015
Calendar
For athletics calendar info, visit the
JHS website and click the link for “Athletic Events
This Week” or visit the Wesco Athletics website and
click the “J” for Jackson Timberwolves details.
February 2015
SUN
1
MON
2
TUE
3
WED
4
Hygiene Products Drive
Begins (goes through
Feb. 13)
8
9
THU
5
FRI
6
SAT
7
Sweet Soiree at
Brookdale Senior
Liviing (Band)
LIF Day
TSA Regional
Competitions
Regional Band and
Choir Competitions
10
11
12
13
14
School Board mtg,
4:30pm
PTSA Meeting, 7pm,
Career Center
Open Campus Apps
Due
LIF Day
Silent Reading & Working
Lunch, JHS Library
Hygiene Products Drive
Ends
Father-Daughter Dance
15
22
16
17
NO SCHOOL—
Mid-Winter Break
NO SCHOOL—
Mid-Winter Break
23
24
Pre-Registration Video 5th Period Pre-Reg
in 2nd Period Classes Advisories Begin (through
March 20)
School Board mtg,
4:30pm
18
19
20
21
Deadline to Sign Up for
Practice SAT
LIF Day
Practice SAT
25
26
27
28
Pathways Awards,
7:40am
Running Start Info Mtg, LIF Day
2:10-3pm, JHS Library
Free SAT for Juniors
Celebration of
Innovation, 6-8pm, CHS
LIF = Learning Improvement Friday
(75-minute early release)
Student calendar —year at a glance
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February 2015
Back TALK
THIS NEWSL ET T ER HAS BEEN BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE PTSA OF HENRY M. JAC KSON HIGH SCHOOL
JHS PTSA 2014-2015
President
Executive Board
Denise Constantineau
VP
VP—
—Membership
Meggin Podnar
VP
VP—
—Ways & Means
Angela Steck
Treasurer
Michelle Nims
Secretary
Brandi Lind
To contact the board, visit the JHS PTSA website,
click on Board of Directors, and complete
the message form—or send an email to
[email protected].
A WASHINGTON STATE—
HENRY M. JACKSON HIGH
SCHOOL PTSA CHARTER 7.3.95
NEWSLETTER
JACKSON HIGH SCHOOL
1508 136TH ST. SE
MILL CREEK, WA 98012
425-385-7000
FOR SUBMISSIONS TO THIS
NEWSLETTER, PLEASE SEND AN
EMAIL TO THE SUBMISSIONS
EDITOR AT
[email protected]
MARCH ISSUE DEADLINE:
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
SUBMISSIONS EDITOR:
Kathryn Lee
CONTENT EDITOR:
DeeAnn Williamson
Meetings
SUBSCRIPTIONS:
Lori Taylor
PTSA meetings are held monthly
in the JHS Career Center at 7 p.m.
Please join us!
February 11
April 8
March 11
May 13
Click here for general membership meeting minutes.
MEMBERSHIP
FOR ONLINE INFO ABOUT THIS
PTSA, VISIT OUR WEBSITE:
http://www.HMJacksonPTSA.org
PTSA members
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/
HMJacksonPTSA/info
448
GOLD LEVEL
Everett Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or
military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use
of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts
and other designated youth groups.
Designated to handle inquiries about nondiscrimination policies are:
Affirmative Action Office ........... Carol Stolz [email protected] ..................... 425-385-4106
Title IX Officer ............................ Randi Seaberg [email protected] ................ 425-385-4104
504 Coordinator......................... Becky Ballbach [email protected] ............... 425-385-4063
ADA Coordinator ....................... Kristine McDowell [email protected] ............. 425-385-5250
Address: Everett Public Schools, 3900 Broadway, Everett, WA 98201