Happy Mother’s Day!

Posted on May 13, 2012 by Dee Dieterich-Shields

 

Cool Cat Newsletter

Weekly Newsletter – May 13, 2012

A Message from the President

Happy Mother’s Day! I’d be remiss by not beginning today’s newsletter with a hope that all you moms had a great day.  I’d also like to extend my appreciation to all who provide motherly love.  This also includes all the staff at our school who got to enjoy a great lunch last Wednesday.  Thanks to Verde’s for catering the event and Kelli Baumann, Leigh Berkholz, and Robin Luttrull who helped with set-up.  I’d also like to thank Teacher Heaven and countless others for providing door prizes.

Also last Wednesday was my final PTA meeting as President (at least for this year).  I’d like to reiterate my appreciation to the board, all the program coordinators, committee members & chairs, and other volunteers for making the job easier for me.  I said that it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.  In fact, it was my pleasure.

What I forgot to mention then that I think ties well together today is my biggest motivation for doing this job.  My mom was an active PTA member when I was in school and was always a big advocate for children.  She was there for my brother and me whenever we needed her throughout our grade school years. Unfortunately, it seems her purpose in life was done soon after my younger brother left for college.  She was diagnosed with cancer the October after he graduated high school and died the following January.  Though it’s been twenty-five years, I still miss her and feel a bit of a loss on this day….

Here’s to you wonderful moms on your special day and the lasting memories and impressions you leave on your children’s lives.

Martin Garza
president@dsepta.org

Water to Thrive Update: We Did It!

And we did it “well!” Our new total is OVER $5,675! I am so proud of our kids and families. What a great world-wide outreach! The whole school cheered when I announced it last week. Here is how things played out Wednesday morning:

1. A student came in with a check from her family for $250
2. Another student came in with an online donation that was matched by Dell (where her dad works) for a combined contribution of $835.  Then I made the announcement.
3. Next during my guidance lesson, a first grade class turned in money they made ($30) for selling lemonade at their open house.
4. Other donations, that have not been counted yet, have come in and the bucket is full!

Go Cool Cats, Go!!! The extra money will be earmarked 100% toward helping with another well project. More information to come!  For more information about W2T, or to donate visit http://watertothrive.org. Thank you for not only supporting our kids in their fundraising effort, but also the kids in Africa who will benefit from clean, healthy water. For this report, visit DSE Counselor Traci Henze’s page.

Spring Cleaning of PTA Workroom and Storage

The PTA will hold a PTA Workroom and Attic Clean Out on Tuesday, May 22, and Wednesday, May 23.  We’ll extend this to Thursday if necessary. If you have time, please come help after student drop off for as long as you can. Thank you!

Food Drive Ends This Friday

Food drive items are due by 11 a.m. on Friday, May 18. Fifth grade community service leaders will organize, box and deliver them!

Food Drive Reminders: The foyer has tables set up and color coded by grade level.This year each grade level table has labels of  ALL 8 category items on the attached list (ie: fruit, veges, beans, etc).Basically, students just need to get their donations to the grade level table and the student leaders will help keep donations neat and sorted! Top contributing grade levels will be recognized!

pink=Pre-k/K (under windows nearest 2nd grade hall)
blue=1st grade (under windows by the bird bulletin board)
green=2nd (under STAMP board by my  blue mailbox)
yellow=3rd (across from PTA room)
red=4th (in front of library display cases)
orange=5th (BY the MUSIC room)

 

*Medium Size Boxes and Sturdy Paper Bags are also appreciated.

Order Your School Supplies for Next Year

As one year winds down, it’s time to prepare for next year by ordering your child(ren) school supplies. The DSE PTA makes this easy for you. Just complete the form, send in with your payment and the supplies arrive at Meet The Teacher Night before school begins in the fall. And that’s one less thing to cross off your list.

Please fill out the form (Form in English / Form in Spanish) and include your primary telephone number. Write your student(s)’ names as they are enrolled. Note: This price does not include music recorder. DSE PTA will take orders for recorders at a separate time.

The complete list of supplies is available on the DSISD website: www.dsisd.txed.net > Students/Parents > School Supplies. Return the form along with payment securely attached by May 18.

Make checks payable to DSE PTA. If you have questions, please contact Lisa Glass at 894-0280 or lisaglass@msn.com.

Reminders

ACE Forms – The ACE registration form is on the district web site and forms are being processed through the web.  Below is the link to the registration form…http://www.dsisd.txed.net/index.aspx?NID=248 (you’ll need to copy and paste). Please use care when selecting registration form and make sure you select DSES ACE Program Registration Form. Deadline is May 16!

Market Day – Market Day is Friday, May 18. Each class has an opportunity to purchase items from 3rd graders to support their economics unit. If you would like your child to purchase items, please send money with them on Friday. Loose change works best.

Fun Field Days this week are:

  • Pre-K, K, and 1st: Tuesday, May 15 8:00-11:30 a.m.
  • 2nd, 3rd: Wednesday, May 16 8:00-11:30 a.m.
  • 4th: Thursday, May 17 8:00-11:30 a.m.
  • 5th (at DSMS): Tuesday, May 29 8:00-11:30 a.m.

Redemption Program: The last day to turn in Box Tops and Labels for prizes will be May 16. You will still be able to turn in Box Tops and Labels until the last day of school, they just won’t be counted for prizes.

Final Days – Awards and Parties

DSE will hold its year end awards assemblies and class parties on May 30 and 31 respectively. As expected, there will be high number of visitors to campus. Please complete the form sent home in last week’s Thursday Folders so that your name badge will be ready when you arrive.

May 30, Awards Assemblies

Pre K & K: 7:45 – 8:45 a.m.
1st: 12:20 – 1:20 p.m.
2nd: 8:55 – 9:55 a.m.
3rd: 10 – 11 a.m.
4th: 11:05 a.m. – 12:05 p.m.
5th: 8:45-9:45 a.m. on May 31

May 31, Class Parties

Pre K: 12 – 1 p.m.
PPCD: 10 – 11 a.m.
Kindergarten: 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
1st: 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
2nd: 12 – 1 p.m.
3rd: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
4th: 8 – 9 a.m.

Important Dates to Remember

Wed, May 15-17 – PE Fun Days

Wed, May 16 – Last day to turn in BoxTops, Labels, etc…

Thurs, May 17 – 7:45 – 9 am, Principal’s Coffee in Room 310

Fri, May 18 - 3rd Grade Market Day: All DSE students can bring up to $5.00 (change preferred) to buy goods and services made and provided by 3rd graders.  All proceeds go toward their trip to Camp Champions in 5th grade.

Fri, May 18 – Food Drive and Water to Thrive deadline

Mon, May 21 through Fri, May 25: Scholastic Book Fair, open late Tuesday, May 22.

Mon, May 21- Summer Plans (DSISD Community Education Fair) in the Lecture Hall at Dripping Springs High School at 6 p.m.

Tues, May 22 – PTA Workroom Clean Up (begins at 7:45 a.m.)

Wed, May 23 – PTA Workroom Clean Up (begins at 7:45 a.m.)

Mon, May 28 – Memorial Day Holiday

Tues, May 29 – 5th Grade Field Day at DSMS

Wed, May 30 – End of Year Awards Assemblies

Thurs, May 31 – End of Year Parties; Last Day of School

For all DSISD dates and events, go to http://www.dsisd.txed.net/calendar.aspx

Para Espanol: Si le gustaria recibir la carta electronica de noticias del PTA de la escuela primaria, favor de proporcinar la siguiente información: su nombre, nombre de el(la) estudiante, grado, maestro(a), y correo electrónico (si cuenta con uno). Favor de enviarlo a DSE PTA con atención a Dayna Childress, VP de informaciones públicas.

Forward to a friend! Join the DSE PTA Facebook Open Group — DSEPTA@groups.facebook.com

DSE PTA eNewsletter: Submit information by Friday at noon for the weekend edition. Send to webmaster@dsepta.org. If you no longer wish to receive these e-newsletters, please reply to unsubscribe.

(#34_2012_05_13)

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News Flash!

Posted on May 9, 2012 by Dee Dieterich-Shields

Dripping Springs Elementary School PTA 

News Flash - May 9, 2012

Fall Fair Discussion Meeting TOMORROW!

If you are interested in working on Fall Fair next year, or have input from the past year, please plan to attend a meeting tomorrow morning at 7:45 at DSE in the PTA Workroom. This meeting is open to anyone interested in contributing to the future fundraising event.

Retirement Celebrations:

    • Ramona Welch – Retirement Celebration - May 9, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM @ DSES – Library
    • Kay Mangrum – Retirement Celebration -  May 14, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM @ DSES Library
    • Norma Madden – Message Bulletin Board – Per Ms. Madden’s request, there will be no reception, but the PTA Bulletin Board Coordinators, Jennifer Stevens and Marla Trlica, have assembled a special recognition bulletin board at school to let Ms. Madden know she will be missed. Please stop by and add a note, and ask your child to do the same.

 

 

 

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Final PTA Meeting; Teacher Appreciation Week

Posted on May 7, 2012 by Dee Dieterich-Shields

Cool Cat Newsletter

Weekly Newsletter – May 6, 2012

A Message from the President

Talents displayed last week at 3rd-5th Grades Art Show

It was great to see so many people at the Open House & Art Show last week.  Thanks to everyone who made it such a great success!

This week on Wednesday May 9, will be our final PTA Membership Meeting where the budget for next year will be presented.  It starts at 7:45 a.m. in the PTA Workroom and it would be great to see many of you there.

Also on Wednesday is the Staff Appreciation Luncheon.  If you’d like to donate a small gift to serve as a door prize, please deliver by Wednesday morning to the PTA Workroom.

Thank you in advance and have a great week celebrating our DSES teachers and staff.

Martin Garza
president@dsepta.org

Let the Collecting Begin! DSE Food Drive is May 7-18

Please start talking to your kids about our Food Drive. With it only being 10 school days, we really need to rev them up to help stock the shelves for summer! The foyer will have tables set up and color-coded by grade level. This year each grade level table will have labels of the ALL 8 category items on the attached list (ie: fruit, veges, beans, etc). Basically, they just need to get their donations to the grade level table and the student leaders can help keep donations neat and sorted!
Top contributing grade levels will be recognized!
Pink=Pre-k/K (under windows nearest 2nd grade hall)
Blue=1st grade (under windows by the bird bulletin board)
Green=2nd (under STAMP board by my blue mailbox)
Yellow=3rd (across from PTA room)
Red=4th (in front of Library display cases) Orange=5th (by the Music room)
*Medium Size Boxes and Sturdy Paper Bags are also appreciated.

Water to Thrive Service Project Update

Water 2 Thrive Service Project

Water to Thrive Service Project

Our school is abuzz! The service project is going strong! Our Water to Thrive collection is now $3,750! We are really close to earning the goal of $5,000 to have a clean water well erected in Africa with our school’s name in sponsorship. A lot of the money earned has been student driven! Parents and neighbors have given students extra chores and some parents have even matched funds raised! Several students have even donated birthday and Christmas money, and staff members have given generously as well. We are down to the wire, and the kids are getting really excited!
With 800 kids and 100 staff members, if each person, if able, could donate $1.50 more, we would actually exceed our goal! ONLINE GIVING kicks off next week on the W2T website. I will post the link as soon as they email it to me.
If extended family or community members wish to donate electronically they may do so next week! For more information about the organization, visit http://watertothrive.org. Thanks for supporting not only our kids in their fundraising effort, but also the kids in Africa who will benefit from clean, healthy water! For this report, visit DSE Counselor Traci Henze’s page.

Field Day Volunteers Needed

Good Afternoon Parents,
As I am sure you are aware, PE Field Day is approaching very quickly!!  Your child’s teacher might have contacted you about volunteering, but if not please let them know ASAP if you are willing to help.  Your help is needed to work a center.
You will need to come to the gym on your child’s field day between 7:30 and 7:45 for assignments and instructions.  Please wear tennis shoes, cool clothing, and sunscreen because you might be outside for a period of time.
Field Day dates and times:
Pre-K, K, and 1st: Tuesday, May 15 at 8:00-11:30 a.m.
2nd, 3rd: Wednesday, May 16 at 8:00-11:30 a.m.
4th: Thursday, May 17 at 8:00-11:30 a.m.
5th (at DSMS): Tuesday, May 29 at 8:00-11:30 a.m.
Not only will you be helping, you will also being having fun getting see all the excited and young faces of DSES show off their athletic skills!
Much Appreciated,
Kay Mangrum, DSES- PE 512-858-3724 or kay.mangrum@dsisd.txed.net

Order Your School Supplies for Next Year

As one year winds down, it’s time to prepare for next year by ordering your child(ren) school supplies. The DSE PTA makes this easy for you. Just complete the form, send in with your payment and the supplies arrive at Meet The Teacher Night before school begins in the fall. And that’s one less thing to cross off your list.
Please fill out the form (Form in English / Form in Spanish) and include your primary telephone number. Write your student(s)’ names as they are enrolled. Note: This price does not include music recorder. DSE PTA will take orders for recorders at a separate time.
The complete list of supplies is available on the DSISD website: www.dsisd.txed.net > Students/Parents > School Supplies. Return the form along with payment securely attached by May 18.
Make checks payable to DSE PTA.
If you have questions, please contact Lisa Glass at 894-0280 or lisaglass@msn.com. Form in English Form in Spanish

Redemptions Program Update April 2012

Alecia Bergeron, Redemptions Program Coordinator, would like to say thank you to everyone who has submitted Box Tops, Campbell’s Labels and MyCoke Rewards.

For Box Tops: We have collected 16,583 Box Tops so far this year! Remember to go to www.btfe.com to enter for a chance to win 10,000 Bonus Box Tops for our school, to shop and earn eBox Tops and to receive coupons.

For Campbell’s Labels: We have collected 14,118 Labels! Also, since our school has increased our submissions by 50% for the 2011-2012 school year we will be receiving bonus points in our account for the 2012-2013 school year. Great Job!!

For MyCoke Rewards: We have collected 1,650 points. You can enter the codes online at www.mycokerewards.com, or drop them in the Box Tops Box.

The last day to turn in Box Tops and Labels for prizes will be May 16. You will still be able to turn in Box Tops and Labels until the last day of school, they just won’t be counted for prizes. Thank you again for your continued support this year! Let’s keep it going!

For the complete report, click here.

District News

May edition of Inside DSISD: http://www.dsisd.txed.net/DocumentView.aspx?DID=2011

Project Graduation Events

Project Graduation provides an all-night, substance-free party for our senior class on the night of graduation. Please consider helping out with the upcoming Project Graduation 2012 events:
Saturday, May 12 – Ladies Clothes Swap 12-4pm at DS Presbyterian Church: Spring Clean your closets of clothes, shoes and accessories. Bring things you would take to a consignment shop or give to a good friend to STUDIO 1826 (14401 FM 1826, by Nutty Brown Rd) before May 12 or to the church on May 12 in the morning. Collect 1 ticket per item.
SHOP on SATURDAY, MAY 12th from 12pm – 4pm and SWAP one ticket for one item while enjoying music and refreshments! HELP PG12 >  Admission of $25 includes snacks, drinks and ticket for first glass of wine.
Contact Marie Thomas at (512) 894-0908/ 296-5990 (cell)  STUDIO 1826 (512) 394-1826 with any questions
Also, mark your calendar for Sunday, May 20 – Mr. Tiger pageant – senior boys talent show, swimsuit competition, group dance, etc.

DSES Principal Invited to Harvard Program

Dripping Springs Elementary Principal Mary Ellen Fernandez has been chosen to receive a grant to attend The Principal’s Center at the Harvard Graduate School of Education this summer. The organization Raise Your Hand Texas chose her application as part of its Leadership Program. She will attend “Improving Schools: The Art of Leadership” in late June. Raise Your Hand Texas will cover the cost of tuition, as well as travel expenses. Ms. Fernandez is completing her first year as principal at DSES after serving as the district’s Curriculum Coordinator for several years.

Congratulations to our Teacher of the Year

DSISD honored campus winners of Teacher of the Year this morning as Superintendent Bruce Gearing joined campus principals to surprise the winners. The five campus Teachers of the Year are: SueAnna Thomas, first grade, Dripping Springs Elementary; Natalie Mahany, third grade, Rooster Springs Elementary; Amber Daige, first grade, Walnut Springs Elementary; Angela Smith, Science, Dripping Springs Middle School; and Marisa Maher, Business/coach, Dripping Springs High School. The five campus winners are now eligible for the DSISD Elementary Teacher of the Year and Secondary Teacher of the Year awards, which will be announced at the Board of Trustees meeting May 17, 2012. Those two winners will represent Dripping Spring ISD in the state Teacher of the Year contest.
SUEANNA THOMAS: Mrs. Thomas is in her 21st year teaching and her sixth year at Dripping Springs Elementary where she has taught both third and first grades. She also has taught in four other districts, including nearby Hays CISD. Mrs. Thomas earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A&M University in 1991 and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Texas Tech University in May 2011. http://www.dsisd.txed.net/civicalerts.aspx?AID=1005

Important Dates to Remember

Mon, May 7 - ACE Information Session at Dripping Springs Elementary @ 6:30 pm. Registration forms will be available on the ACE website on May 1, and forms are due by May 16 to the campus office.

Mon, May 7 – GT K-5 Parent Information Meeting, @ 7:30-8:30 pm, DSES Cafeteria

Tues, May 8 - ACE Information Session at Rooster Springs Elementary @ 6:30 pm. Registrations forms will be available on the ACE website on May 1, and forms are due by May 16 to the campus office.

Wed, May 9 – PTA Membership Meeting, 7:45 a.m. (last meeting of the year)

Wed, May 9 – Teacher Appreciation Luncheon

Sat, May 12 – School Board Election

Wed, May 16 – PE Fun Day

Wed, May 16 – Last day to turn in BoxTops, Labels, etc…

Thurs, May 17 – 7:45 – 9 am, Principal’s Coffee in Room 310

Fri, May 18 - 3rd Grade Market Day: All DSE students can bring up to $5.00 (change preferred) to buy goods and services made and provided by 3rd graders.  All proceeds go toward their trip to Camp Champions in 5th grade.

Mon, May 21 through Fri, May 25: Scholastic Book Fair, open late Tuesday, May 22.

Mon, May 21- Summer Plans (DSISD Community Education Fair) in the Lecture Hall at Dripping Springs High School at 6 p.m.

Mon, May 28 – Memorial Day Holiday

Wed, May 30 – End of Year Awards Assembly

Thurs, May 31 – End of Year Parties; Last Day of School

For all DSISD dates and events, go to http://www.dsisd.txed.net/calendar.aspx

Para Espanol: Si le gustaria recibir la carta electronica de noticias del PTA de la escuela primaria, favor de proporcinar la siguiente información: su nombre, nombre de el(la) estudiante, grado, maestro(a), y correo electrónico (si cuenta con uno). Favor de enviarlo a DSE PTA con atención a Dayna Childress, VP de informaciones públicas.

Forward to a friend! Join the DSE PTA Facebook Open Group — DSEPTA@groups.facebook.com

DSE PTA eNewsletter: Submit information by Friday at noon for the weekend edition. Send to webmaster@dsepta.org. If you no longer wish to receive these e-newsletters, please reply to unsubscribe.

(#33_2012_05_06)

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Order DSE School Supplies for 2012-13 by May 18

Posted on May 2, 2012 by Dee Dieterich-Shields

As one year winds down, it’s time to prepare for next year by ordering your child(ren) school supplies. The DSE PTA makes this easy for you. Just complete the form, send in with your payment and the supplies arrive at Meet The Teacher Night before school begins in the fall. And that’s one less thing to cross off your list.

Please fill out the form (Form in English / Form in Spanish) and include your primary telephone number. Write your student(s)’ names as they are enrolled. Note: This price does not include music recorder. DSE PTA will take orders for recorders at a separate time.

The complete list of supplies is available on the DSISD website: www.dsisd.txed.net > Students/Parents > School Supplies.

Return the form along with payment securely attached by May 18. Make checks payable to DSE PTA. If you have questions, please contact Lisa Glass at 894-0280 or lisaglass@msn.com.

Form in English

Form in Spanish




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Parents like You Drive our PTA Programs!

Posted on April 29, 2012 by Dee Dieterich-Shields

Cool Cat Newsletter

Weekly Newsletter – April 29, 2012

A Message from the President

Family Fun and Movie Night at DSE was a big hit last Friday night with a total of 93 students, parents and family members attending. Thanks to John Crowley for preparing what may have been the best meal I’ve ever had in a school cafeteria.  :-)   Thanks go to Virginia Hassell, Cindy Bryant, and all their helpers as well, on running such a wonderful event.  It was an informative and entertaining night.

Please look for a couple of important handouts coming home in the coming weeks. This week you’ll get the order form for school supplies.  Thanks to Lisa Glass for coordinating this program.  You’ll also be getting a flyer about our Little Ceasars Pizza fundraiser.  Thanks to Nicole McGilvray for coordinating this one.

As you can see it takes many people to keep our PTA programs going.  If you’re interested in coordinating any of the PTA Programs next year, please let me know.  I appreciate those of you who’ve already volunteered.

Martin Garza
president@dsepta.org

Water to Thrive Service Project Update

Water 2 Thrive Service Project

Water to Thrive Service Project

Our school is abuzz! The service project is going strong! Our Water to Thrive collection is now $3,750! We are really close to earning the goal of $5,000 to have a clean water well erected in Africa with our school’s name in sponsorship.

A lot of the money earned has been student driven! Parents and neighbors have given students extra chores and some parents have even matched funds raised! Several students have even donated birthday and Christmas money, and staff members have given generously as well.

We are down to the wire, and the kids are getting really excited! With 800 kids and 100 staff members, if each person, if able, could donate $1.50 more, we would actually exceed our goal!

ONLINE GIVING kicks off next week on the W2T website. I will post the link as soon as they email it to me. If extended family or community members wish to donate electronically they may do so next week! For more information about the organization, visit http://watertothrive.org.

Thanks for supporting not only our kids in their fundraising effort, but also the kids in Africa who will benefit from clean, healthy water! For this report, visit DSE Counselor Traci Henze’s page.

Counselor’s Corner – April 2012

A Laughing Matter: Did you know that children are likely to laugh up to 2,000 times a day, whereas adults only 215 times?  Let’s de-stress and laugh more!

This month’s focus has been on Integrity and Problem Solving. Integrity means do the right thing even when no one is looking. Problem Solving means you decide on the problem, think about your choices, make a plan and do it.

Care Classes Summaries:

  • Kinder-We read and compared two books about the power of words. We read “A Bright Day for Everyone” by Skills for Growing about the effects of spreading kind words and “Andrew’s Angry Words” by D. Lachner which showed the danger of losing control of angry, hateful words.
  • First Grade- We read class created “Better Things to do Than Being Bossy” books from last month. Then we read “Let’s Talk About Being a Bad Sport” by Joy Berry. We discussed how to maintain friendships by being a good sport.
  • Second Grade- We discussed the importance of being a good listener in making friends and problem solving. We watched “Groark Learns to Listen”.
  • Third Grade- We discussed showing integrity when testing and reviewed test taking tips by pulling items from a bag!(pencil, alarm clock,ear, rabbit/turtle, etc.)
  • Fourth Grade-We brainstormed characteristics of a good leader and I explained the nomination and application process and criteria for selection of student leaders for 5th grade. Students received a handout of the process.
  • Fifth Grade-We explored maintaining integrity in relationships. We read Cowboy Jose about a cowboy torn between spending time with a pushy woman vs his trustworthy horse. Then we read an excerpt from “Babysitter Club- Little Sister-Karen’s In Love” about a break up. Discussion followed by powerpoint about handling the ups and downs of friendships including boyfriend/girlfriend friendships.

Visit Traci Henze’s webpage for more: http://www.dsisd.txed.net/index.aspx?NID=2959

Redemptions Program Update April 2012

Alecia Bergeron, Redemptions Program Coordinator, would like to say thank you to everyone who has submitted Box Tops, Campbell’s Labels and MyCoke Rewards.boxtops for education

For Box Tops: We have collected 16,583 Box Tops so far this year! Remember to go to www.btfe.com to enter for a chance to win 10,000 Bonus Box Tops for our school, to shop and earn eBox Tops and to receive coupons.

For Campbell’s Labels: We have collected 14,118 Labels! Also, since our school has increased our submissions by 50% for the 2011-2012 school year we will be receiving bonus points in our account for the 2012-2013 school year. Great Job!!

For MyCoke Rewards: We have collected 1,650 points. You can enter the codes online at www.mycokerewards.com, or drop them in the Box Tops Box.

The last day to turn in Box Tops and Labels for prizes will be May 16. You will still be able to turn in Box Tops and Labels until the last day of school, they just won’t be counted for prizes. Thank you again for your continued support this year! Let’s keep it going!

For the complete report, click here.

District News

Parent Sessions: DSISD will sponsor a parent session on Monday, Apr. 30 – Sharpen Your Parenting Skills (Dr. Paula Stiernberg) at Rooster Springs Elementary at 6 p.m.

HS/MS EVENTS: May 2012

5/3 DSMS: Tennis Meet, 4:15 p.m.

5/7 DSMS:  Beginning Bands Spring Concert, DSHS Auditorium, 6:30 p.m.

5/8 DSMS:  Wind Ensemble/Symphonic and Concert Bands Spring Concert, DSHS Auditorium, 6:30 p.m.

5/10 DSMS: “Bye, Bye Birdie” musical, Cafeteria, 7:00 p.m.

5/11 DSHS: Band Spring Concert, Auditorium, 6:30 p.m.

DSMS: “Bye, Bye Birdie” musical, Cafeteria, 7:00 p.m.

5/17 DSHS:  Choir Spring Concert, Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

DSMS: Second Annual Dance Showcase, Cafeteria, 7:00 p.m.

5/18 DSHS: Jazz Orchestra and Jazz Cats Concert, Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

DSMS: Second Annual Dance Showcase, Cafeteria, 7:00 p.m.

5/19 DSMS: District Tennis Meet, DSMS & DSHS courts

5/25 DSMS: Athletes vs. Teachers Fundraiser Basketball Game, A-Gym, 2:00 p.m.

Reminders

  • Check your student(s) 3rd nine-week grade report on your Family Access account.
  • Principal’s April Newsletter 2012 is available now. Please take a moment to see the updates from Mrs. Fernandez.
  • Please complete the DSE Parent Survey.  The survey will be available until April 30, 2012. Survey.
  • Senior Class Sprint 5K fundraiser information is available here: 2012 Senior Class Sprint 5K.

Important Dates to Remember

Mon, Apr. 30 – Sharpen Your Parenting Skills with Dr. Paula Stiernberg at Rooster Springs Elementary at 6 p.m. (DSISD sponsored event)

Tues, May 1 – Volunteer Breakfast, 8-9:30 am in the Library.

Thurs, May 3 – Open House, 5:30-6:30 pm. Come visit the classroom and let your student show you all the work they have done this year.  Then tour the school and enjoy the artwork of 3rd-5th graders.

Thank you volunteers!

Thurs, May 3 – 3rd-5th Grade Art Show, 6:30-7:30 pm

Thurs, May 3 – ACE Information Session at Walnut Springs Elementary @ 6:30 pm. Registrations forms will be available on the ACE website on May 1, and forms are due by May 16 to the campus office.

Mon, May 7 - ACE Information Session at Dripping Springs Elementary @ 6:30 pm. Registration forms will be available on the ACE website on May 1, and forms are due by May 16 to the campus office.

Mon, May 7 – GT K-5 Parent Information Meeting, @ 7:30-8:30 pm, DSES Cafeteria

Tues, May 8 - ACE Information Session at Rooster Springs Elementary @ 6:30 pm. Registrations forms will be available on the ACE website on May 1, and forms are due by May 16 to the campus office.

Sat, May 12 – School Board Election

Wed, May 16 – PE Fun Day

Wed, May 16 – Last day to turn in BoxTops, Labels, etc…

Thurs, May 17 – 7:45 – 9 am, Principal’s Coffee in Room 310

Fri, May 18 – 3rd Grade Market Day: All DSE students can bring up to $5.00 (change preferred) to buy goods and services made and provided by 3rd graders.  All proceeds go toward their trip to Camp Champions in 5th grade.

Mon, May 21 through Fri, May 25: Scholastic Book Fair, open late Tuesday, May 22.

Mon, May 21- Summer Plans (DSISD Community Education Fair) in the Lecture Hall at Dripping Springs High School at 6 p.m.

Mon, May 28 – Memorial Day Holiday

Wed, May 30 – End of Year Awards Assembly

Thurs, May 31 – End of Year Parties; Last Day of School

For all DSISD dates and events, go to http://www.dsisd.txed.net/calendar.aspx

Para Espanol: Si le gustaria recibir la carta electronica de noticias del PTA de la escuela primaria, favor de proporcinar la siguiente información: su nombre, nombre de el(la) estudiante, grado, maestro(a), y correo electrónico (si cuenta con uno). Favor de enviarlo a DSE PTA con atención a Dayna Childress, VP de informaciones públicas.

Forward to a friend! Join the DSE PTA Facebook Open Group — DSEPTA@groups.facebook.com DSE PTA eNewsletter: Submit information by Friday at noon for the weekend edition. Send to webmaster@dsepta.org. If you no longer wish to receive these e-newsletters, please reply to unsubscribe.

(#32_2012_04_29)

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STAARs and Stripes; PTA Council Meeting; Family Fun Night

Posted on April 22, 2012 by Dee Dieterich-Shields

Cool Cat Newsletter

Weekly Newsletter – April 22, 2012

A Message from the President

Don't Miss Family Fun Night Friday!

After three days of the Founders Day Festival fun, it’s time for many of the kids to get ready for testing.  Hopefully, they’ll sleep well the next few nights.  Please remember that school access will be limited Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday during STAAR testing.

I’d also like to remind everyone that the next Council of PTAs meeting is on Monday, April 23 at 8:45 am.  This is the election meeting.  Since a Nominating Committee wasn’t formed at the last meeting, nominations will be taken from the floor.  You should attend if you’re interested in serving.

Family Fun Night for Healthy Habits is Friday, April 27, 6:30 p.m.  You can find more info on this movie night below.

Finally, please let me know if you’d like to attend PTA Training being hosted by Hays CISD Council of PTAs on April 28th. Some dynamic passionate presenters have been lined up who are very eager to prepare you, especially new board members or coordinators, to share some new ideas and get you excited about the possibilities that the 2012-2013 school year will bring.  It will be held at Simon Middle School in Kyle.

Schedule

9:30 – 10:00        Leader Orientation Training (LOT) Registration
10:00 – 12:00       LOT in English & Spanish.  $6 fee for materials (cash or checks made out to Texas PTA).
12:00 – 12:30       Entertainment provided by Simon Middle School students
12:30 – 1:15        Area 6 Annual Meeting  (bring your PTA membership card so you can be a voting delegate)
·         Election of 2012-2013 Area 6 officers
·         Greetings from Renee Walker, Texas PTA Treasurer
1:00 – 1:15           Officer and Chair Training Registration
1:15 – 3:00           Officer and Chair Training. Free.
·         President – Trainers: Ricardo Vela, Araceli Ramirez, Hays Council of PTAs
·         Treasurer – Trainers: Renee Walker, Texas PTA Treasurer
·         Secretary – Trainer: Karen Smith, Texas PTA Region IV VP
·         Membership – Trainers: RRISD Council of PTAs Membership Trainers
·         Reflections – Trainer: Shaleen Wilding, RRISD Council of PTAs Reflections Chair

Lunch will be available for purchase from Carl’s Jr., who will be on campus from 11:00 a.m.  Email me so I can let the organizers know which workshop(s) you are planning on attending so that they can make sure there are sufficient training materials for everyone.

As detailed in previous announcements, a new board has been elected.  To help in the planning for next year, two other things will happen.  First, a budget committee will meet and present a recommended starting budget for next year at the May membership meeting.  It’s made up of three or five members including the incoming President and Treasurer and at least one retiring board member. If you’re interested in serving, or have any input, please let me know by April 23.

The other effort will be to fill coordinator positions.  Please review the published list and let me know if you’re interested in any of those programs or new ones that were added this year (e. g., Running Club) or if any you’d like to add. Coordinators will be approved by the board as spots are filled.

Thanks to all who attended last week’s meeting. Have a great week!

Martin Garza
president@dsepta.org

Healthy Tips, Yummy Dinner and Free Movie This Friday

Family Fun Night for Healthy Habits is Friday, April 27, 6:30 p.m. at DSE. Join DSISD Nutritionist, John Crowley, for a fun-filled evening with family and friends. John will share healthy cooking tips and tortilla soup and salad.  We will be showing THE MUPPETS for FREE!

Bring blankets and settle in for a fun night with your DSE friends and your kiddos! Teachers, parents, students — all come together and enjoy the show! Get the details here.

School Board Candidate Forum on Thursday

Community members are invited to attend a Candidate Forum for all candidates running for the Dripping Springs Independent School District Board of Trustees:

Date: Thursday, April 26, 2012
Time: 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Dripping Springs City Hall, 511 W. Mercer Street, Dripping Springs, Texas,  78620.

All candidates have been invited to attend.

Candidates running for 3 spots are:
Karl Seelbach
Tim Kurpiewski, CPA *
Jennifer Kubicek
Chrissi McMullen
Carrie Fontana Kroll
Jon Thompson
Caroline Pekarek *
Thao M. Phan
(* incumbent)

During the Candidate Forum, after all candidates have been given the opportunity to introduce themselves, they will all be asked to answer the same set of prepared questions. Audience members will then be given the opportunity to ask questions.

Dripping Springs Education Association (DSEA) and the DSHS Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) have hosted this event for over 20 years as a service to our community.  Both are non-partisan organizations whose “special interests” are the children of our community and excellence in education. Note: The school board election is May 12.

More information about the Dripping Springs School Board Elections can be found on the DSISD website: http://www.dsisd.txed.net/index.aspx?nid=330

Redemptions Program Update April 2012

Alecia Bergeron, Redemptions Program Coordinator, would like to say thank you to everyone who has submitted Box Tops, Campbell’s Labels and MyCoke Rewards.boxtops for education

For Box Tops: We have collected 16,583 Box Tops so far this year! Remember to go to www.btfe.com to enter for a chance to win 10,000 Bonus Box Tops for our school, to shop and earn eBox Tops and to receive coupons.

For Campbell’s Labels: We have collected 14,118 Labels! Also, since our school has increased our submissions by 50% for the 2011-2012 school year we will be receiving bonus points in our account for the 2012-2013 school year. Great Job!!

For MyCoke Rewards: We have collected 1,650 points. You can enter the codes online at www.mycokerewards.com, or drop them in the Box Tops Box.

The last day to turn in Box Tops and Labels for prizes will be May 16. You will still be able to turn in Box Tops and Labels until the last day of school, they just won’t be counted for prizes. Thank you again for your continued support this year! Let’s keep it going!

For the complete report, click here.

District News

HS/MS EVENTS: May 2012

5/3 DSMS: Tennis Meet, 4:15 p.m.

5/7 DSMS:  Beginning Bands Spring Concert, DSHS Auditorium, 6:30 p.m.

5/8 DSMS:  Wind Ensemble/Symphonic and Concert Bands Spring Concert, DSHS Auditorium, 6:30 p.m.

5/10 DSMS: “Bye, Bye Birdie” musical, Cafeteria, 7:00 p.m.

5/11 DSHS: Band Spring Concert, Auditorium, 6:30 p.m.

DSMS: “Bye, Bye Birdie” musical, Cafeteria, 7:00 p.m.

5/17 DSHS:  Choir Spring Concert, Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

DSMS: Second Annual Dance Showcase, Cafeteria, 7:00 p.m.

5/18 DSHS: Jazz Orchestra and Jazz Cats Concert, Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

DSMS: Second Annual Dance Showcase, Cafeteria, 7:00 p.m.

5/19 DSMS: District Tennis Meet, DSMS & DSHS courts

5/25 DSMS: Athletes vs. Teachers Fundraiser Basketball Game, A-Gym, 2:00 p.m.

Reminders

  • Check your student(s) 3rd nine-week grade report on your Family Access account.
  • Principal’s April Newsletter 2012 is available now. Please take a moment to see the updates from Mrs. Fernandez.
  • Please complete the DSE Parent Survey.  The survey will be available until April 30, 2012. Survey.
  • Senior Class Sprint 5K fundraiser information is available here: 2012 Senior Class Sprint 5K.
  • Parent Sessions: DSISD will sponsor parent sessions on Apr. 30 – Sharpen Your Parenting Skills (Dr. Paula Stiernberg) at Rooster Springs Elementary and May 21- Summer Plans (DSISD Community Education Fair) in the Lecture Hall at Dripping Springs High School, both begin at 6 p.m.

Important Dates to Remember

Mon, Apr. 23 - Council of PTAs meeting at 8:45 am.

Tues, Apr. 24 – STAAR Math – 3rd & 4th Grade

Wed, Apr. 25 – STAAR Reading – 3rd & 4th Grade

Thurs, Apr. 26 – STAAR Science – 5th Grade

Fri, Apr. 27 – Family Fun Night / Healthy Habits Dinner and Movie, 6:30 pm, DSE Cafeteria

Mon, Apr. 30 – Sharpen Your Parenting Skills (Dr. Paula Stiernberg) at Rooster Springs Elementary

Tues, May 1 – Volunteer Breakfast, 8 – 9:30 am

Thurs, May 3 – Open House, 5:30-6:30 pm

Thurs, May 3 – ACE Information Session at Walnut Springs Elementary @ 6:30 pm. Registrations forms will be available on the ACE website on May 1, and forms are due by May 16 to the campus office.

Thurs, May 3 – 3rd-5th Grade Art Show, 6:30-7:30 pm

Mon, May 7 - ACE Information Session at Dripping Springs Elementary @ 6:30 pm. Registrations forms will be available on the ACE website on May 1, and forms are due by May 16 to the campus office.

Tues, May 8 - ACE Information Session at Rooster Springs Elementary @ 6:30 pm. Registrations forms will be available on the ACE website on May 1, and forms are due by May 16 to the campus office.

Sat, May 12 – School Board Election

Wed, May 16 – PE Fun Day

Wed, May 16 – Last day to turn in BoxTops, Labels, etc…

Thurs, May 17 – 7:45 – 9 am, Principal’s Coffee in Room 310

Mon, May 21- Summer Plans (DSISD Community Education Fair) in the Lecture Hall at Dripping Springs High School

Wed, May 30 – End of Year Awards Assembly

For all DSISD dates and events, go to http://www.dsisd.txed.net/calendar.aspx

Para Espanol: Si le gustaria recibir la carta electronica de noticias del PTA de la escuela primaria, favor de proporcinar la siguiente información: su nombre, nombre de el(la) estudiante, grado, maestro(a), y correo electrónico (si cuenta con uno). Favor de enviarlo a DSE PTA con atención a Dayna Childress, VP de informaciones públicas.

Forward to a friend! Join the DSE PTA Facebook Open Group — DSEPTA@groups.facebook.com DSE PTA eNewsletter: Submit information by Friday at noon for the weekend edition. Send to webmaster@dsepta.org. If you no longer wish to receive these e-newsletters, please reply to unsubscribe.

(#31_2012_04_22)

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Family Healthy Habits Night April 27

Posted on April 17, 2012 by Dee Dieterich-Shields

Family Fun Night for Healthy Habits is Friday, April 27, 6:30 p.m. at DSE.

Join DSISD Nutritionist, John Crowley, for a fun-filled evening with family and friends. John will share healthy cooking tips and tortilla soup and salad.  We will be showing THE MUPPETS for FREE!

Bring blankets and settle in for a fun night with your DSE friends and your kiddos! Teachers, parents, students — all come together and enjoy the show!

Get the details here.

Posted in Enrichments, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Colors of Spring at DSE

Posted on April 15, 2012 by Dee Dieterich-Shields

Cool Cat Newsletter

Weekly Newsletter – April 15, 2012

A Message from the President

Have you noticed the beautiful DSE Flower Garden?

As detailed in previous announcements, a new board has been elected.  To help in the planning for next year, two other things will happen.  First, a budget committee will meet and present a recommended starting budget for next year at the May membership meeting.  It’s made up of three or five members including the incoming President and Treasurer and at least one retiring board member. If you’re interested in serving, or have any input, please let me know by April 22.

The other effort will be to fill coordinator positions.  Please review the published list and let me know if you’re interested in any of those programs or new ones that were added this year (e. g., Running Club) or if any you’d like to add.

Coordinators will be approved by the board as spots are filled.

Thanks to all who attended last week’s meeting. Have a great week!

Martin Garza
president@dsepta.org

DSES Art Shows

Pre-K through 2nd Grade Art Show last week

A Message from Erin Johnston, DSES Art Teacher:

Dear DSES Parents/Guardians, Thank you for all of your help and support for the Pre-K-2nd Grade Art Show! The night was a success thanks to our hard working volunteers, expert bakers, and enthusiastic mini Picassos.

A very heartfelt thank you to Amy Driggs. She put in many hours of preparation for the show! Also to all of the volunteers, I couldn’t have managed this without your help and muscles!

I need more volunteers to help take artwork DOWN next week from Tuesday, April 17 – Friday, April 20. This is the week before the STAAR test and volunteers may be in the building. If you can do this, please remove the staples, and put the artwork in the teacher’s mailbox in the workroom. That’s it! (There are over 400 pieces so it’s not a small task.)

Reminders:

3rd – 5th Grade Art Show is Thursday, May 3 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on our campus

Please email erin.johnston@dsisd.txed.net if you can help in these ways:

  1. TAKE DOWN artwork any day/time from April 17-20 (after all that work, it has to come down!)
  2. HANG artwork for the 3rd-5th show starting Friday, April 28
  3. BAKE cookies for the 3rd – 5th Grade Art Show for Thursday, May 3

Thank you again and please to not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Snacks Needed for STAAR Testing Days

As most of you know the second round of STAAR testing is next week.  The PTA will provide a snack to each of the students during those days.  Brandy Potter is coordinating these snack donations and is requesting donations to ensure there is an adequate amount of snacks for each child.

Please consider donating any of the following: cheddar goldfish, animal crackers, mini pretzels, boxes of chex mix rice, corn, or wheat, dried fruits, cheese sticks, raw veggies, and sandwich bags. We also need large shopping bags. Please leave any donated food/bags in the PTA workroom by Tuesday April 17.

I would also like to suggest that you communicate with your teacher on suggestions of what you might individually add to your class’ selection. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THE SNACKS CANNOT BE TOO MESSY. Also, remember the class’ food allergies. If you do provide a special addition, you will be responsible for getting that addition to the classroom for the day of testing. Please keep it simple or prepare servings so that the teachers do not have to do so. Thank you!

Principal Notes

  • Please remember to check your student(s) 3rd nine-week grade report on your Family Access account.
  • Principal’s April Newsletter 2012 is available now. Please take a moment to see the updates from Mrs. Fernandez.
  • Please complete the DSE Parent Survey.  The survey will be available until April 30, 2012. Survey.
  • Senior Class Sprint 5K fundraiser information is available here: 2012 Senior Class Sprint 5K.

District News

April district newsletter is now available here: http://www.dsisd.txed.net/DocumentView.aspx?DID=19613

DSISD held a second Community Budget Meeting last week and an informative dialogue was held with Superintendent Bruce Gearing and about 50 parents, staff and community members.

Frequently Asked Questions about the budget and state funding continue to be updated and are available at: http://www.dsisd.txed.net/index.aspx?NID=2948.

The PowerPoint presentation from last night’s meeting is posted at: http://www.dsisd.txed.net/DocumentView.aspx?DID=19709.

As the budget development process continues, input can be submitted to the e-mail address: “budget@dsisd.txed.net.”  A budget will be proposed to the Board at the June 21, 2012 meeting.

One question that has attracted attention during several budget-related discussions is how student attendance affects funding. Parents often are surprised to learn that, because school districts are funded based on Average Daily Attendance, every time a student misses a day (excused or unexcused), DSISD loses more than $34. So, if a student misses 5 days during a school year, that would equate to about $170 less in funding the district would have available for operating costs.

Overall, DSISD’s average attendance is very good. Typically, we have about 96 percent of our kids at school. However, if that percentage went up by a single percentage point, the district would receive more than $250,000 in additional funding.

The district recognizes that when children are ill, they should be kept home. However, parents should make every effort possible to avoid children missing school for other activities such as trips, events, and other non-school activities.

Parents should be aware of the time that attendance is taken at their child’s campus. At the elementary level, attendance is taken at 8:45 a.m. and at the secondary level, that time is 10:10 a.m. Students who arrive late or miss part of the day because of a doctor’s appointment still “count” in the school’s daily attendance if an official doctor’s note is submitted.

Reminders

Spirit Shirts Still Available: Get Ready for Baseball and Soccer Season with your Dripping Spirit Shirts! PTA has several styles, colors, sizes still available. We’re selling these remaining shirts and sweatshirts, first come, first serve! Get yours now and show your Drippin’ Spirit at all the games! For the order form, click here.

Parent Sessions: DSISD will sponsor parent sessions on Apr. 30 – Sharpen Your Parenting Skills (Dr. Paula Stiernberg) at Rooster Springs Elementary and May 21- Summer Plans (DSISD Community Education Fair) in the Lecture Hall at Dripping Springs High School, both begin at 6 p.m.

Important Dates to Remember

Thurs, Apr. 19 – 7:45 - 9 am @ Room 310 Principal’s Coffee

Tues, Apr. 24 – STAAR Math – 3rd & 4th Grade

Wed, Apr. 25 – STAAR Reading – 3rd & 4th Grade

Thurs, Apr. 26 – STAAR Science – 5th Grade

Mon, Apr. 30 – Sharpen Your Parenting Skills (Dr. Paula Stiernberg) at Rooster Springs Elementary

Tues, May 1 – Volunteer Breakfast, 8 – 9:30 am

Thurs, May 3 – Open House, 5:30-6:30 pm

Thurs, May 3 – ACE Information Session at Walnut Springs Elementary @ 6:30 pm. Registrations forms will be available on the ACE website on May 1, and forms are due by May 16 to the campus office.

Thurs, May 3 – 3rd-5th Grade Art Show, 6:30-7:30 pm

Mon, May 7 - ACE Information Session at Dripping Springs Elementary @ 6:30 pm. Registrations forms will be available on the ACE website on May 1, and forms are due by May 16 to the campus office.

Tues, May 8 - ACE Information Session at Rooster Springs Elementary @ 6:30 pm. Registrations forms will be available on the ACE website on May 1, and forms are due by May 16 to the campus office.

Wed, May 16 – PE Fun Day

Thurs, May 17 – 7:45 – 9 am, Principal’s Coffee in Room 310

Mon, May 21- Summer Plans (DSISD Community Education Fair) in the Lecture Hall at Dripping Springs High School

Wed, May 30 – End of Year Awards Assembly

For all DSISD dates and events, go to http://www.dsisd.txed.net/calendar.aspx

Para Espanol: Si le gustaria recibir la carta electronica de noticias del PTA de la escuela primaria, favor de proporcinar la siguiente información: su nombre, nombre de el(la) estudiante, grado, maestro(a), y correo electrónico (si cuenta con uno). Favor de enviarlo a DSE PTA con atención a Dayna Childress, VP de informaciones públicas.

Forward to a friend! Join the DSE PTA Facebook Open Group — DSEPTA@groups.facebook.com DSE PTA eNewsletter: Submit information by Friday at noon for the weekend edition. Send to webmaster@dsepta.org. If you no longer wish to receive these e-newsletters, please reply to unsubscribe.

(#30_2012_04_15)

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2012-13 PTA Board Election Results

Posted on April 11, 2012 by Dee Dieterich-Shields

Today was election day at DSES for our 2012-2013 PTA Board. Through Nominating Committee recommendations and a couple of nominations from the floor, general membership voted and approved the following as your 2012-2013 DSES PTA Board. Congratulations to all!

President – Martín Garza
1st Vice President of Enrichments – Cindy Pelland
2nd Vice President of Ways and Means – Jennifer Stevens
3rd Vice President of Volunteers – Dominique Jerry Peel
4th Vice President of Public Information – Dee Dieterich-Shields
Secretary – Ricci Belk Dunn
Treasurer – David Lopykinski

Thank you to everyone who attended this morning’s meeting to cast your vote!

Posted in Membership | Leave a comment

It’s Election Time at DSES PTA!

Posted on April 8, 2012 by Dee Dieterich-Shields

Cool Cat Newsletter

Weekly Newsletter – April 8, 2012

A Message from the President

Dripping Springs Elementary PTAIt’s election time at DSES PTA, and the names of the nominees submitted by the Nominating Committee for the 2012-2013 Executive Board are now available.  A very big thank you goes out to our nominating committee – Marla Trlica, Billie St. Clair, and Ricci Dunn and alternate Kathryn Cothern. They have submitted the following nominees for membership’s consideration:

President – Martin Garza

1st Vice President of Enrichments – Cindy Pelland

2nd Vice President of Ways and Means – Jennifer Stevens

3rd Vice President of Volunteers – Rebecca Hendriks

4th Vice President of Public Information – Dee Shields

Secretary – Ricci Dunn

Treasurer – open

One position remains without a nominee at this time – Treasurer. This position may remain open until such time as we have a nominee. Additional nominations from the floor may be made and will be considered for all positions. If you are considering a position and have any questions, please feel free to contact any current board member.

A brief description of each position is below.

President – Leads local meetings, signs checks, and attends council meetings

1st Vice President of Enrichments – Oversees all enrichment programs (e.g., Math Stars, Outdoor Classroom, Planet Protectors, Reflections, & Art Appreciation)

2nd Vice President of Ways and Means – Oversees fundraising activities (e.g., Fall Fair, Redemptions, & Spirit Items)

3rd Vice President of Volunteers – Coordinates volunteers for PTA programs & events and oversees some PTA programs (Staff Appreciation, Talent Show, & Teacher Workroom)

4th Vice President of Public Information – Oversees the dissemination of PTA information by means such as bulletin boards, marquee, newsletter, & website

Secretary – Maintains meeting minutes and PTA records

Treasurer – Maintains and presents PTA financial information

The elections will be held at the next PTA Membership Meeting on Wednesday, April 11, beginning at 8:00 a.m. in the PTA Workroom. Only registered PTA Members are eligible to vote and every member is encouraged to attend.  Additional board positions of Parliamentarian and Historian are appointed by the newly elected President and approved by the new board. Two delegates to the Dripping Springs Council of PTAs will be nominated and approved by general membership next year.

Committee Chair appointments for the 2012-2013 will be approved by the newly elected board later this year. Ongoing appointments will be approved as needed. If you are interested in a committee position, please let me know.

See you Wednesday, if not before. Thanks for being involved!

Thanks,
Martin Garza
president@dsepta.org

Spirit Shirts Still Available!

Get Ready for Baseball and Soccer Season with your Dripping Spirit Shirts! PTA has several styles, colors, sizes still available. We’re selling these remaining shirts and sweatshirts, first come, first serve! Get yours now and show your Drippin’ Spirit at all the games! For the order form, click here.

DSES Art Show Tuesday!

Pre-K – 2nd Grade Art Show: Tuesday, April 10, 5:30-6:30 p.m. (Kindergarten music performance to follow in the cafeteria) 3rd – 5th Grade Art Show: Thursday, May 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m. (Same night as Open House) Do you have an eye for design? Want an arm workout? Volunteer with the DSES Art Show! Mrs. Johnston needs help hanging and arranging artwork during and/or after school for both shows. This includes stapling artwork to bulletin boards, making sure it’s properly labeled, setting work in the display cases, etc. Please email erin.johnston@dsisd.txed.net for more information.

Father/Daughter Ball is April 14

Create a special memory and join us for our first Father/Daughter Ball on Saturday, April 14, at the High School Cafeteria. Pre-registration is required and you can register online here.

District News

As we continue to work on the 2012-13 budget, I wanted to provide an update to our families, and remind everyone about the next Community Budget Meeting on April 10.  At that meeting, we again will share basic budget information, update the group on the progress being made in the budget development process, and answer questions.

This type of dialogue is critical as we face the challenge of creating an even leaner budget, while trying to provide quality educational opportunities to our students. Every question that is raised and every idea that is introduced helps us get to where we need to be.

As you may recall, DSISD’s state funding was cut $2.1 million in 2011-12 and will be reduced another $3.1 million in 2012-13. The district reduced expenditures significantly last year and is looking for more savings in the 2012-13 budget. The Board also has given administration the go-ahead to use up to $1,600,358 from the district’s undesignated fund balance.

In addition to the Community Budget Meetings, input is being gathered during District-Wide Budget Committee meetings; the committee includes various stakeholders such as parents and staff.

The groundwork has been laid for the implementation of some cost-savings or revenue-producing measures. For instance, the course catalogs at the middle and high schools both include slightly fewer electives than in previous years. In addition, the master schedule at those campuses is being built using 26:1 as a staff-to-student ratio rather than the previous standard of 25:1.

As items for cost reduction are thoroughly examined, some ideas are being revised based on input from staff and community. For instance, a proposal to use a combination of registered nurses and licensed vocational nurses had been raised last spring and was being looked at for possible implementation.  However, the nurses developed an alternative cost-savings plan that included each of them reducing their hours slightly, which would allow the district to realize some savings while maintaining an RN at each campus. That plan currently is being considered for inclusion in the budget.

In terms of revenue production, the district’s tuition-based pre-K program will accept enrollment of out-of-district residents, and DSHS will accept some out-of-district transfers. That decision was based on availability of space and the opportunity for additional funding (state funding is based on average daily attendance).

Additional information about the budget development process, including Frequently Asked Questions, is available on the district website (look under “About DSISD” and “Budget/State Funding”).

The April 10 meeting will start at 6:00 p.m. in the Board Room at the DSISD Administration Building (510 W. Mercer St.). The budget also will be a topic at Board meetings between now and when it is presented for adoption on June 21, 2012.

Comments regarding the budget or ideas for either budget-reduction strategies or revenue-generating opportunities may be submitted to the following e-mail address: budget@dsisd.txed.net. Thank you for supporting our schools, teachers and students in Dripping Springs ISD.

Sincerely,
Bruce Gearing, Ed.D., Superintendent

Reminders

Kindergarten Musical Tuesday, April 10: Please note that there will only be ONE Kindergarten Musical on Tuesday, April 10. It will be the same night as the K-2 Art Show. The music program will begin at 6:30 p.m., and students should be in the music room by 6:20 p.m. ”The theme is Nursery Rhymes, but this show is different from anything we’ve done with nursery rhymes in the past. It’s a party theme, and is an opportunity to dress your child up a little if you and the child would like. Whatever they wear, they’ll be wonderful, because they’re yours!” said Ms. McDonald.

Parent Sessions: DSISD will sponsor parent sessions on Apr. 30 – Sharpen Your Parenting Skills (Dr. Paula Stiernberg) at Rooster Springs Elementary and May 21- Summer Plans (DSISD Community Education Fair) in the Lecture Hall at Dripping Springs High School, both begin at 6 p.m.

Important Dates to Remember

Tues, Apr. 10 – DSISD Community Budget Meeting Tues,

Tues, Apr. 10 – PreK-2nd Grade Art Show, 5:30 pm

Tues, Apr. 10 - Kindergarten Musical, 6:30 pm

Wed, Apr. 11 – PTA Membership Meeting – Elections! 8 a.m.

Thurs, Apr. 12 - 5th to 6th Transition Event: Course Sheets due to Homeroom Teachers

Fri, Apr. 13 – Kindergarten Field Trip to Zoo

Sat, Apr. 14 – Father/Daughter Dance, 7-9 pm, DSHS Cafeteria, $34/couple + $10 for each additional child

Thurs, Apr. 19 – 7:45 - 9 am @ Room 310 Principal’s Coffee

Tues, Apr. 24 – STAAR Math – 3rd & 4th Grade

Wed, Apr. 25 – STAAR Reading – 3rd & 4th Grade

Thurs, Apr. 26 – STAAR Science – 5th Grade

Mon, Apr. 30 – Sharpen Your Parenting Skills (Dr. Paula Stiernberg) at Rooster Springs Elementary

Tues, May 1 – Volunteer Breakfast

Thurs, May 3 – Open House, 5:30-6:30 pm

Thurs, May 3 – 3rd-5th Grade Art Show, 6:30-7:30 pm

Wed, May 16 – PE Fun Day

Thurs, May 17 – 7:45 – 9 am, Principal’s Coffee in Room 310

Mon, May 21- Summer Plans (DSISD Community Education Fair) in the Lecture Hall at Dripping Springs High School

Wed, May 30 – End of Year Awards Assembly

For all DSISD dates and events, go to http://www.dsisd.txed.net/calendar.aspx

Para Espanol: Si le gustaria recibir la carta electronica de noticias del PTA de la escuela primaria, favor de proporcinar la siguiente información: su nombre, nombre de el(la) estudiante, grado, maestro(a), y correo electrónico (si cuenta con uno). Favor de enviarlo a DSE PTA con atención a Dayna Childress, VP de informaciones públicas.

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(#29_2012_04_08)


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