All of the items featured in this extended blast, as well as the information from the regular weekly blasts, will also be available on the PTO website.

Please contact us with questions, comments or items to submit (editor@williamspto.org).

Here is the link to the most recent Community News listings on the website. To submit Community News items, please contact newsletter@williamspto.org.

Thanks!  Tracey Lavey and Wendy Hurwitz

Coming up at Williams:

• Tuesday, June 7, Color Day
• Wednesday, June 8, 7:30 p.m., Orchestra/4th Grade Chorus Concert
• Thursday, June 9, 7:00 p.m., Riverside Community Meeting at Williams
• Friday, June 10, 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Williams Spring Book Fair
• Tuesday, June 14, 7:00 p.m., 5th Grade Play
• Thursday, June 16, 7:00 p.m., WASC Show
• Monday, June 20, 5:00 p.m., Celebration for Mrs. Holmes
• Wednesday, June 22, 10:00 a.m., Arch Day Celebration
• Wednesday, June 22, 12:00 p.m. Dismissal, Last Day of School

In this Issue:

News From Dr. Connolly
Around Williams
Program Updates: Understanding Our Differences, Library News, Gift Books, Special Education
Around Newton

1. News From Dr. Connolly
2. Fundraising
3. Program Updates:
   • Understanding Our Differences,
   • Library News,
   • News from Nurse Dolly,
   • Creative Arts and Sciences,
   • Special Education
4. Newton News

______________________________________________

Please contact us with questions, comments or items to submit (editor@williamspto.org).

Here is the link to the most recent Community News listings on the website. To submit Community News items, please contact newsletter@williamspto.org.

Thanks!  Tracey Lavey and Wendy Hurwitz

Coming up at Williams:

April 18-22, No School, April Vacation

_______________________________________________

APRIL NEWS FROM DR. CONNOLLY:

Hello Williams Community,

Spring is finally here and almost all of the snow is gone!  We have been out on the field for recess and it has made a big difference for all of the children. We have just completed the first round of MCAS testing, the English Language Arts portion of the assessments.  All of the Williams students worked hard and I am sure that we did well, given their effort.

Although we have three more months of school to go, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all of the volunteers here at the Williams School.  The PTO (which is all of you!) continues to provide the children of the Williams School with educational and enrichment opportunities that given these fiscal times would not otherwise be afforded.  From the PTO presidents and the PTO Board organizing and overseeing activities and events, to those involved in the auction or volunteering in the school as well as countless others that organize and run activities that make Williams unique, I am so very grateful.

Each year, many of our volunteers move on as a result of their children graduating and or to pursue new employment and life opportunities, and we are always in need of new people who are interested in getting more involved.  I would ask that if you are willing and able to volunteer at any level to please contact either me (midge_connolly@newton.k12.ma.us) or the PTO presidents (president@williamspto.org) so that we can begin to put things in place for next fall. I speak not only for myself but also for all of the faculty and staff at Williams as I give a heartfelt thank you to all who have lent a helping hand and send a big welcome to those who would like to join in!

One other thing that I would like to share is that we have begun a small fundraiser for the Red Cross. We are all aware of the natural devastation and other tragedies that have been happening around the world.  At our school meeting this week, we talked about the fact that all of us here at Williams are a part of that larger world and that the Red Cross is an organization that helps people all over the world including here in the United States, when people or countries face difficult or tragic times.  We will run this drive for the next couple of weeks and then make a donation to the Red Cross right after vacation.  If your children would like to bring donations of any size, there will be a jar available in the Williams office.

Again, thank all of you for your support and welcome to spring!
Best,
Dr. Midge Connolly
midge_connolly@newton.k12.ma.us

FUNDRAISING:

Spring Auction and Party Raise Funds and Build Community!

The Williams Spring Auction and Party events were a smashing success, raising over $23,000 to support PTO programs and activities. The Spring Party at the New Art Center was a rocking good time, with over 100 parents, teachers and staff in attendance and fabulous entertainment from local band Plumbean and our very own Irving and the Ice Damns (A.K.A  Sheila Doyle, Michael Lorant, Van Eswara, and Jose Martinez).

Many thanks to our wonderful volunteers for making the night possible: Orly Bonshtein, Doug Cornelius, Patrizia Martucci Dallemule, Beth Doran, Natalia Efimova, Erin Giesser, Chris Greeley, Wendy Hurwitz, Christine Lacey, Melissa Locke, Wendy Woodruff.  Evening sponsors included Harpoon Ale, Roche Brothers Supermarkets and Russo Brothers. Special kudos to: Noah Feldman for the giving trees which also served as our beautiful center pieces and to Katie Greeley for organizing the teacher raffles.

The success of our on-line auction continued this year, with generous support from our sponsors, donors and Williams’ families, who contributed goods, services and time to the event. The auction featured over 200 items, including amazing grade-level baskets organized by the room parents and parent volunteers.  Special thanks to Carol Roe, Christine Lacey, Liz Padula, Dana Lanciloti and Jennie Goldenson for helping to procure goods and services for the auction; Erin Giesser for assisting with distribution of items; and our sponsors -Village Bank, Beaver Summer Programs, Brimmer and May Summer Camp, Buckingham Browne and Nichols Summer Camp, Camp Waziyatah, Greater Boston YMCA Sandy Island Family Camp, Lasell College and Camp Meadowbrook.

–Gail Sokoloff, Auction Chair, and Lauren Brooks, Party Chair

Where does the money go?

The generosity and fundraising efforts of the Williams community have resulted in some recent technology purchases for our classrooms.  With your donations and help, we have been able to purchase 7 new MacBook laptops  each with an Applecare protection plan, 4 new Proscopes (digital microscopes) and 7 additional copies of Microsoft Office.

–Michael Lorant, Technology Chair, PTO Board

PROGRAM UPDATES:

Understanding Our Differences:

We are looking for volunteers to help in the 3rd grade on Friday, April 29, from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. for the Allergies unit.

To volunteer, please contact Ann Hill (annbusbyhill@verizon.net).

Library News:

Please enjoy the latest news from the Williams Library from Library Specialist Cheryl Kosmo

News from Nurse Dolly:

The days are getting longer and the warmer sun is encouraging outside playtime. April is a great time to reinforce the importance of protecting your child’s skin and your own from the sun to prevent skin cancer. While skin cancer is the most common of all cancers, it is the most preventable, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

Almost half of all Americans who live to age 65 will be diagnosed with skin cancer at some point in their lives, according to the National Cancer Institute. Early childhood sunburns increase a child’s risk for cancer later in life. Fair skin, lots of moles, and a family history of skin cancer are additional risk factors.

But whether you have these risk factors or not, anyone can get skin cancer. Slip! Slap! Slop! Is a great way for parents and children to remember three great skin cancer prevention tips:

• Slip on a t-shirt: A t-shirt over a bathing suit or other sleeveless shirt is a great way to help block some of the sun’s rays
• Slap on a hat & sunglasses: A brimmed hat and sunglasses help protect the face and eyes.
• Slop on sunscreen: Apply SPF 15 or higher sunscreen before going outside, and reapply at least every two hours, even if it is cloudy.

Did you know that even tanning indoors damages your skin? And that people who use tanning beds once a month before the age of 35 increase their melanoma risk by 75 percent? Summer is coming, and so is the temptation to head to a tanning booth or to lie outside to get that desirable bronzed look. But think twice before going tanning.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, according to the National Cancer Institute. There are different types of skin cancer. Melanoma causes about three-fourths of all skin cancer deaths. Other types of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma) aren’t as deadly, but having one of them further increases your risk of getting other types of skin cancer.

The more you tan, and the younger you start tanning, the more likely it is you will get melanoma. And using a tanning bed can be more damaging than being outside in the sun due to higher levels of radiation. A common misconception is that you need to be in the sun for long periods of time in order for your body to make vitamin D. But for most people, 5 to 10 minutes of unprotected sun 2-3 times a week is enough to help your skin make vitamin D. You also get vitamin D from the vegetables you eat and the milk you drink. Getting more sun won’t increase vitamin D production, but it will increase your skin cancer risk. So be sure to stay away from the tanning booths and use SPF 15 or higher sunscreen when you head outside.

For more information, contact Nurse Dolly (dolly_staulo@newton.k12.ma.us) or visit www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/skin or www.melanomafoundationne.org/.

Creative Arts and Sciences:

On Tuesday, April 5, in a special all-school show, Williams students will enter the mysterious, silent world of mime with David Zucker. David makes each traditional mime performance unique by creating an environment that allows for improvisational interplay with his audience. Filled with spontaneity and spirit, as well as a curriculum-based focus, this program introduces students to added material on mime training and history and its relationship to poetry.  As an actor, director, playwright, teacher, and mime, David was chosen from over 900 ensembles across the country and honored with Young Audience’s National Artist of the Year award in 1996. We are excited to host this exciting and engaging program at Williams!

On April 8, Tim Greene and Carol Neville of Bay Colony Educators will bring their Colonial America presentation to the fifth grade. Mr. Greene and Ms. Neville are certified Massachusetts teachers who have visited Williams annually for many years, bringing to life through lecture and hands-on activities the 18th century Massachusetts Bay Colony.
On April 29, fourth graders will learn with origami master Michael LaFosse of Origamido Studio (www.origamido.com), who relates this extraordinary art form to subject areas ranging from math and geometry to history and cultural topics. Mr. LaFosse’s work has been exhibited in museums including The Louvre and the Peabody Essex Museum.

Special Education PAC:

1) NewtonPAC Organizational Meeting: Monday, April 4, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. at 100 Walnut Street, Room 210

All are invited to join NewtonPAC board members in drafting a mission statement and by-laws for NewtonPAC for Special Education.  Though NewtonPAC has been an active organization for more than 20 years, by-laws were either, never created or have been lost.  In any case, it is now the 21st Century and time to create (or re-create) the by-laws of the NewtonPAC!

Please join us to share your ideas about the mission statement, membership categories (voting, general, student), and officer roles.  Draft By-Laws will be posted after the meeting and discussed at the beginning of the NewtonPAC meeting on April 28.  A vote will be taken on the By-Laws at the May 18th NewtonPAC Brain-Storming meeting.

2) Extended School Year: The Newton Extended School Year Eligibility Guidance has been posted to the announcements page of

of NewtonPAC website http://newtonpac.org/announcements/

Links to the Massachusetts DESE frequently asked questions and Wrights Law are also posted.

3) NewtonPAC is thrilled to announce the 2nd Annual NewtonPAC Special Educator Awards: The awards ceremony will be held on Thursday, June 2nd at 7pm at the Ed Center, 100 Walnut St and will be followed by a casual reception.

Once again, we will be honoring a few of the many members of NPS staff who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to have truly made a difference in the lives of our children. Do you have someone you’d like to recognize? Send your nominations to pacnoms@hotmail.com.

All nominations must be received by May 15th. Nominations MUST include:

• Your name (will not be made public – nominator’s names are known only to award recipients).
• Nominee’s home school and e-mail address. If s/he is a district-wide employee, please designate as such and note which school your child attends.
• A SHORT paragraph on why you believe s/he should be recognized.
• Please note that the awards are for the CURRENT SCHOOL YEAR ONLY.  All nominees will be recognized.  Nominees can be any member of NPS staff. They do NOT have to be special education dedicated if they made a difference to a child receiving special education services. There is no official limit to the number of staff members nominated per family, but please use your discretion. The awards are meant to recognize truly outstanding efforts.

The Williams School SPED PAC Committee: Beth Doran, Vivian Glassman-Grosser, Gail Sokoloff

NEWTON NEWS:

The Childhood Roots of Adult Happiness: Five Steps to Help Create and Sustain Lifelong Joy with Dr. Edward Hallowell, Tuesday, April 12, 7:00- 8:30 p.m., Newton South Auditorium
To view a flier of the event:  http://www.newton.k12.ma.us/newtonpartnership/documents/EDWARDHALLOWELL2011.pdf

All of the items featured in this extended blast, as well as the information from the regular weekly blasts, will also be available on the PTO website.

Please contact us with questions, comments or items to submit (editor@williamspto.org).

Here is the link to the most recent Community News listings on the website. To submit Community News items, please contact newsletter@williamspto.org.

Thanks!  Tracey Lavey and Wendy Hurwitz

Coming up at Williams:

Tuesday, February 8, 7:30 p.m., Winter Concert, Rescheduled

February 25 – March 11, Spring Auction

Saturday, March 12, 7:00 p.m., Williams PTO Spring Party

In this Issue:

News From Dr. Connolly

Other News from the Williams Office

Fundraising Events and Opportunities: Moms’ Night Out Events, Spring Auction, Spring Party

Program Updates: Understanding Our Differences, Library News, Art News, News from Nurse Dolly, Creative Arts and Sciences, Special Education

FEBRUARY NEWS FROM DR. CONNOLLY:

Hello Williams Community,

First, I would like to address the retirement of Dottie Callaghan, the administrative assistant here at Williams for the past eleven years. Dottie was here before, during and after the renovation to the Williams School. She has done much for our school community over these many years including but certainly not limited to; budgets, hiring of faculty and staff, scheduling, and ordering just about everything that has been required to make sure the children of Williams have what they have needed. For over a decade Dottie has been the face of Williams School, the greeter of all that have come through our school doors, always kind and considerate, the consummate professional. Thank you Dottie, and all the best in your future endeavors!

Next, it seems that the snow just keeps piling up and there seems to be no end in sight. It is now more than ever that we must rely on each other’s civility when it comes to the safety of all children during drop-off and pick-up from school. I ask that you please use the crosswalks at all times and if using the Blue Zone, remain in your car with your engine off and please do not block the crosswalks. Please stagger your pick up until 3:10 when the bulk of the traffic has passed. And if driving, I implore you to please take extra caution and move slowly on the streets around the school. Thanks for your consideration on this very important safety matter.

Given the continuous snow and cold temperature, it has been quite difficult to get the children out to recess the last few weeks and with the latest snow additions it has become an even bigger challenge.  As a result of the streets being so narrow, and losing spaces in the parking lot, we have had to move some faculty and staff parking to the blacktop until conditions improve.  In addition, the ice that has formed has made the play structure unsafe for now and the depth of snow on the field makes it challenging for young children to navigate safely.  As a result we have come up with an alternative plan that will get children outside (as long as it is above 20 degrees) to get some physical activity.  For the first ten minutes of lunch every day all children will walk with their teachers and other adults around the perimeter of the school to get some fresh air and exercise.  In addition, they will participate in some “Brain Gym” during the day — physical activities that can happen right in the classroom.  As soon as it is safe and we are able we will resume our regular outdoor schedule.
Finally, this past Monday in your child’s report card envelope, you also received information about a new home-school communication system called ParentCONNECT. This parent portal allows you to view report cards and attendance on-line at your convenience. We will be increasing the capabilities of this tool as the year progresses and will keep you posted. If you have any questions about ParentCONNECT, please send an email to parentconnect@newton.k12.ma.us.

Best,
Dr. Midge Connolly
midge_connolly@newton.k12.ma.us

OTHER NEWS FROM THE WILLIAMS OFFICE:

Parent/Guardian Telephone Numbers:

It has come to our attention that some of our families did not receive a call from the superintendent informing them that school was cancelled during our recent snow storms.  It is VERY important that we have your most recent telephone numbers on file at all times.  Please call (617-559-6480) or stop in with any changes to any of your contact numbers.  Thank you.

Friendly Neighbor Reminder:
We have been hearing from neighbors that parents who park on the street have been BLOCKING driveways at drop-off and pick-up times!  We know that the snow piles make things harder, but please be sure you aren’t blocking anyone’s driveway before you leave your car!

FUNDRAISING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES:

Moms’ Night Out Events:  Save the Date and Help Needed!
We are currently working to organize grade-level Moms’ Night Out social events!  Come and socialize with the moms of your children’s friends and support the PTO at the same time — each event has a suggested donation of $10 to the Williams PTO.
So far, we have scheduled:
Kindergarten: Afternoon Tea on February 13; organized by Jennie Goldenson, Dana Lanciloti and Stephanie Adler.
Grade 2: Get-together at Biagio in Waltham on March 3 at 7:30 p.m.; organized by Elizabeth Tarmey.
Grade 4: Evening Get-together, date to be determined; organized by Lisa Lynch and Tracey Lavey.
Grade 5: Chocolate Tasting on February 11 at 7:00 p.m.; organized by Susan Katcher.
Please watch for an email about the events that apply to you!
**If you are interested in organizing an event for Grade 1 or Grade 3, please contact Noah Feldman (noah_feldman@yahoo.com) and Paula Fazli (pfazli@comcast.net), Room Parent Coordinators.

Have you decided what to donate to the Spring Online Auction, coming February 25 – March 11?

Sports Tickets, Home cooked meals or baked goods, Vacation Homes, Frequent Flier miles, Professional Services, Gift certificates, Reward Points (ie. American Express or similar program that can be converted to gifts for the auction)… all are great ideas.

Offer something you’ve donated in the past or donate something new. Be creative. We welcome your ideas!

Questions? Gail Sokoloff at Gasok@aol.com

Williams PTO Spring Party: Saturday, March 12, 7:00 p.m.

Join us as the Williams community takes over the New Art Center for an evening filled with Art, Wine, Dancing and FUN dining…. Book your babysitter now and don’t miss this exciting evening out!!!! Invitations to follow.

Bartenders Needed! Are you currently a bartender or have you been one in the past?  We need your skills at the Spring Party!  Contact Lauren Brooks (lbfbrooks@verizon.net) if you are able to help.

PROGRAM UPDATES:

Understanding Our Differences:

We are currently looking for parent volunteers in the

4th grade on Friday, February 11 from 9:30-10:15 a.m.

In March, we will be starting the program in the

3rd grade

and we will need volunteers for the following Fridays from 9:00 – 10:15 a.m.:

Blindness unit, Friday, March 4

Deafness unit,  Friday, April 1

Allergies unit, Friday, April 29

To volunteer, please contact Ann Hill (annbusbyhill@verizon.net).

Library News:

Please enjoy the latest news from the Williams Library from Library Specialist Cheryl Kosmo

Art News:

Griffin Wylie, a kindergartner in Mrs. Dickerson’s class, was chosen at random as an Artist of the Week Finalist on Artsonia.  If he wins the award, he will receive a plaque, and both the artist and the school will receive gift certificates to Art Blick for art supplies!  We can help by voting for his house drawing on the Artsonia site: http://www.artsonia.com/museum/aotw/vote.asp

Anyone can vote once a day on a single computer through Saturday!  Please vote for Griffin!  It will be so exciting if he wins.
If you still want to sign up for Artsonia, click here for the permission form.

News from Nurse Dolly:

February is American Heart Month, and is a great time to become familiar with automated external defibrillators, or AEDs.

These devices administer an electric shock to the heart in certain heart related emergencies. Public access AEDs are in all 21 Newton Public School buildings, the Education Center, and a number of other city buildings including City Hall, the public works yards, the Newton Free Library, and the health department. Often privately owned buildings such as airports and businesses also have public access AEDs. They are typically marked with a sign at the building entrance, and another one near the AED.

Public access AEDs can be used by people who have been trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) using an AED. Effective bystander CPR, provided immediately after sudden cardiac arrest, can double or triple a victim’s chance of survival. Less than one-third of out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest victims receive bystander CPR. Unless CPR and defibrillation are provided within minutes of collapse, often before an ambulance can arrive, few attempts at resuscitation are successful.

CPR/AED Facts:

• The most effective rate for chest compressions is 100 compressions per minute – the same rhythm as the beat of the BeeGee’s song, “Stayin’ Alive.”
• About 5,800 children 18 years old and under suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year from all causes – including trauma, cardiovascular causes and sudden infant death syndrome.
• An AED will only deliver a shock if its on-board computer determines the victim needs it.
• Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time. Many victims appear healthy with no known heart disease or other risk factors.
• Sudden cardiac arrest is not the same as a heart attack. Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when electrical impulses in the heart become rapid or chaotic, which causes the heart to suddenly stop beating. A heart attack occurs when the blood supply to part of the heart muscle is blocked. A heart attack may cause cardiac arrest.

This information was adapted from the American Heart Association website. Questions?  www.heart.org or Nurse Dolly (dolly_staulo@newton.k12.ma.us).

Creative Arts and Sciences:

February is a busy month for Creative Arts & Sciences, with four programs on the schedule.

Today, February 4, the kindergarteners enjoyed The Talking Cello with Sandy Kiefer. Ms. Kiefer, a renowned professor of music at the University of Rhode Island, used the special sound effects of the cello to tell a story, in a demonstration of how music and words connect. She then performed a story that the students wrote with her as a group. This interactive program encompassed finger math, writing, and drawing skills.

Also today, down the hall, in what has become an annual tradition at Williams, the first graders were taking part in Bugworks. This hands-on experience using live insects is designed to teach students ways to observe, understand, and appreciate nature at work.

On Monday, February 14, the fifth graders will gather in the gym for Tom Wahle’s Techsploration: Simple Machines Made Fun. Following his presentation, Mr. Wahle will lead small groups of students in a workshop where they can experiment with their newfound engineering knowledge.

Then, on Thursday February 17, the second graders will also meet in the gym to participate in the Chinese Ribbon Dance program. In an energetic and interactive demonstration that complements their unit of study on China, the children will learn about the history and choreography of this traditional dance, watch a performance, and learn some moves of their own.

Special Education PAC:

Next NewtonPAC Meeting: Thursday, February 10, 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.,

Room 210, Education Center, 100 Walnut Street; Reading in NPS- Identifying and Supporting Struggling Readers with Anne Mikulski, Curriculum Coordinator K-8 English Language Arts (http://www3.newton.k12.ma.us/ela); Refreshments and networking at 7:15 p.m.

Starting to think about the summer? 4th Annual Summer Camp and Recreation Expo for Children with Special Needs: Learn about summer camps and recreational organizations in Massachusetts and the surrounding area. Speak directly with the representatives, pick up literature and get fully informed about what is out there for your child. Sunday, February 13; 12:00 – 3:00 p.m., Framingham High School.  FREE ADMISSION – ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN – FOOD.  Questions? www.f-sepac.org or campexpo@f-sepac.org. Sponsored by The Framingham Special Education Parent Advisory Council.

The Williams School SPED PAC Committee: Beth Doran, Vivian Glassman-Grosser, Gail Sokoloff

Welcome to the January edition of the Word From Williams newsletter.

All of the items featured in this extended blast, as well as the information from the regular weekly blasts, will also be available on the PTO website.

Please contact us with questions, comments or items to submit (editor@williamspto.org).

Here is the link to the most recent Community News listings on the website.

To submit Community News items, please contact newsletter@williamspto.org.

Thanks!  Tracey Lavey and Wendy Hurwitz

Coming up at Williams:

• January 7-17, Williams Online Summer Camp Auction
• Monday, January 17, NO SCHOOL, Martin Luther King Day
• Monday, January 24, 7:00 p.m. Parenting Talk, Dr. Ross Greene (see below)
• Tuesday, February 1, 7:30 p.m. Winter Concert

In this Issue:

News From Dr. Connolly

Fundraising Events and Opportunities: Summer Camp Auction

Program Updates: Understanding Our Differences, Library News, News from Nurse Dolly

Around Newton: Parenting Talk at Williams!, Newton Camp Fair, Summer Planning information, Parent Management Training Workshop

JANUARY NEWS FROM DR. CONNOLLY:

Hello Williams Community,

Happy New Year!  This month I would like to highlight an important system-wide focus for the coming year and beyond;  bullying prevention and intervention.

School related bullying has become part of the National, State and Newton Public School’s spotlight over the past year.  The attention placed on this most critical of topics, at all levels, shows the seriousness of the issue of bullying and the need for all of us, as members of our community, to remain diligent in our anti-bullying stance and actions.

What is Bullying?

According to the new State law approved by the Governor on May 3, 2011 bullying is defined as:

“the repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed at a victim that: (i) causes physical or emotional harm to the victim or damage to the victim’s property; (ii) places the victim in reasonable fear of harm to himself or of damage to his property; (iii) creates a hostile environment at school for the victim; (iv) infringes on the rights of the victim at school; or (v) materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.” M.G.L. c.71 sec.370

The Newton Public Schools has adopted the Open Circle Curriculum for grades K-2 and Steps to Respect Bullying Prevention Curriculum for students in grades 3-5. Here is some important information regarding bullying from the Committee for Children, the creators of Steps to Respect which is information that permeates for children of all grade levels.

What Families Should Know About Bullying

In the Steps to Respect program, children learn the following definition: Bullying is unfair and one sided.  It happens when someone keeps hurting, frightening, threatening, or leaving someone out on purpose. Bullying may consist of hitting, teasing, taunting, spreading rumors and gossip, stealing, or excluding someone from a group. It is carried out with the intent to harm someone. Bullying is often a repeated activity. Bullying always involves a power imbalance. The person bullying has more power due to such factors as age, size, strength, support of friends, or access to resources (such as toys and other belongings), and uses this power in a deliberately hurtful way.

What are the Consequences of Bullying?

The serious consequences of bullying go beyond those that result from violations of school disciplinary rules. Bullying jeopardizes children’s safety and potentially creates both short- and long-term problems for all children involved.

How Many Children Does Bullying Really Affect?

Bullying affects virtually all children. Although it is true that some children will never be bullied, research shows that children witness 85 percent of school bullying incidents. Child witnesses, or bystanders, may feel powerless to stop bullying. They may fear being bullied next. And they may feel sad or guilty about the abuse others experience. Additionally, bystanders may see those who bully succeed at getting what they want. This may tempt bystanders to take part themselves and may lead to an overall increase in bullying. Improving social skills and creating a safe, caring, respectful school environment can help all children deal with bullying.

Isn’t Bullying Just a Normal Part of Growing Up?

The many myths about bullying include the notion that bullying is a harmless childhood activity and a normal part of growing up. Confusion about the difference between conflict and bullying can fuel this myth. While occasional peer conflict is inevitable, bullying is not inevitable. It should always be avoided. In a conflict, both sides have equal power to resolve the problem. But bullying involves the intentional, one-sided use of power to control another. Its harmful consequences can affect people for the rest of their lives.

Wouldn’t My Child Tell Me About Being Bullied?

Not necessarily. Children may not tell adults-not even their parents-about being bullied at school. Studies show that children don’t tell because they believe adults won’t help stop the bullying. Children may also think that they should be able to solve their own problems. Or they may not even recognize that they are being bullied. Other children are afraid. They think that telling an adult will result in worse treatment from the child doing the bullying.

As we move forward as a school community, I ask that you keep these things in mind as you talk with your children.  It is the responsibility of all of us to make sure our children are both emotionally and physically safe.  Please let me know if you have concerns or questions on this most important matter.

Best,

Dr. Midge Connolly

midge_connolly@newton.k12.ma.us

FUNDRAISING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES:

The Williams PTO 2011 Camp Auction opens for bidding on January 7, 2011 at 8:00 AM.

This year’s auction promises to be the biggest and best ever, with many general and specialty summer camps being offered on our online auction website. The Camp Auction is a great way to support the Williams PTO, while getting great deals on some of the best summer camps in the region.

Here is an up-to-date list of the summer camps that have generously agreed to make a donation to our online auction:

• The Camps at Babson College  http://summerprograms.babson.edu/
• Beaver Summer Programs  http://bcdcamp.org/Default.asp?bhcp=1
• Brimmer and May Summer Camp http://www.brimmerandmay.org/podium/default.aspx?t=118629
• Boston College Boy’s and Girls Basketball Camp and Little Kids Baseball Camp  http://bceagles.cstv.com/camps/bc-camps.html
• Summer at Buckingham Browne and Nichols  http://www.bbns.org/summer-programs
• Camp Frank A. Day   http://www.westsuburbanymca.org/main/summer_camps/camp_frank_a_day/
• Emagination Computer Camp  http://www.computercamps.com/
• Fessenden Day Camp  http://www.fessenden.org/summer
• Hale Day Camp  http://www.halereservation.org/
• Linx Camp at Elm Bank   http://www.linx-usa.com/camp
• Mass Premier Soccer Camp  http://mpsbr.com/camps/index_E.html
• Meadowbrook Day Camp   http://www.meadowbrook-ma.org/daycamp/
• New Art Center Summer Program  http://www.newartcenter.org/
• Sandy Island Family Camp  http://bostonycamps.org/sandyisland/
• Camp Waziyatah  http://www.wazi.com/
• Teddy Bear Club French Summer Program http://www.teddybearclub.org/inside/summerprog.html

The online auction is open to the general public, so please feel free to forward information about the auction to friends and family members who might be interested in bidding on one of these items.  We will give a $100 credit –  applicable to any purchase on the summer camp auction or March general auction — to the person who refers the most friends to our summer camp auction.

We’ll be adding new items to our auction for you to preview as the auction date approaches. Check back often to see what’s new. Feel free to place a Watch on your favorites, so that you’ll know as soon as bidding begins!

Be a Sponsor! Contact us at williamspto@biddingforgood.org or 617-795-0520 to take advantage of promotional opportunities for your business or to pledge your individual support.

As always, remember to  Shop amazon.com through the Williams link and earn money for Williams while you shop.

PROGRAM UPDATES:

Understanding Our Differences:

Understanding Our Differences is looking for parent volunteers to run small group activities in the classroom.

In the 4th grade, we need volunteers for Intellectual Disabilities on Friday, January 14th from 9:30-10:30 AM and for Autism Spectrum on Friday, February 11th from 9:30-10:30 AM.

In the 5th grade, we need volunteers for Epilepsy  on Friday, January 28th from 9:00-9:45.

To volunteer:  Ann Hill (annbusbyhill@verizon.net)
Library News:

Please click here for recent news from Cheryl Kosmo about what your kids have been doing in the Williams School Library.

News from Nurse Dolly:

Asthma Medication Recall:

The following information is shared on behalf of Nurse Dolly’s professional association, NASN, as information of interest to our families who have children with Asthma that utilize a nebulizer with the below mentioned solution.

January 3rd, the US FDA MedWatch reported a Ritedose Corporation voluntary recall of 0.083% Albuterol Sulfate Inhalation Solution. Please go to the recall notice for the container sizes and lot numbers recalled http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm238528.htm.

This product is recalled due to 2.5 mg/3 mL single use vials embossed with the wrong dosage concentration therefore, represents a potential significant health hazard. Consumers should immediately return the affected product to the place it was obtained (i.e. doctor’s office, pharmacy, etc.). For more information, contact Ritedose Corporation 803-935-3995 Monday through Friday 8am to 5 pm EST or: recall@ritedose.com.
Assistance Programs for Massachusetts Residents:
Please check this flyer; it may provide some helpful resource information on benefits when unemployment has run out.

AROUND NEWTON:

Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS): An Effective Approach to Understanding and Supporting Your Child; a parenting talk presented at Williams by Dr. Ross Greene.
Are you having trouble managing your child’s behavior?  Is your child not responding to traditional methods of discipline?  Do you feel like your reactions to your child’s behavior sometimes make the problem worse?  Do you want to learn more about specific tools and strategies to help understand and support your child?
Then join us for Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS)- An Effective Approach to Understanding and Supporting Your Child presented by Dr. Ross Greene.  It will be held on Monday, January 24 from 7:00 p.m. — 8:30 p.m. at the Williams School Auditorium, 141 Grove St, Auburndale, MA 02466.

Dr. Greene is Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and author of the acclaimed books, The Explosive Child and Lost at School. Dr. Greene will provide an in-depth review of his model for supporting children who demonstrate challenging behaviors, specifically focusing on working with children and families, and how parents can implement CPS at home.

This free program for parents is co-sponsored by the Newton PTO Council and The Newton Partnership.  Call Nancy Holczer (617-559-9063) with questions.  No registration required.

Newton Camp Fair:
Join Newton Parks and Recreation and the Newton Public Schools for our Camp Fair on Sunday January 30, 2011.  The Camp Fair will take place at the Newton North High School in the Cafeteria from 1:00 – 6:00 PM (snow date February 6, 2011).
More than 30 sports clinics, day camps and specialty programs will be featured including Newton Parks and Recreation summer programs (the Auburndale Station Camp is held at Williams!), SPACE camp, Garden City Sports, and Newton Community Education programs. Registration begins at the camp fair so be sure to come by and check out what Newton has to offer for the summer of 2011.

Workshop on Summer Planning for kids, January 13:  Sponsored by Project Interface; Click for information, and to access the Planning Out of School Time database.

Coming Up:  Parent Group Series – PARENT MANAGEMENT TRAINING

Meeting for six sessions from 11:00 to 12:30 p.m. on Fridays (3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25, 4/1, 4/8)in Newton.  Click here for more information; Pre-registration required.

All of the items featured in this extended blast, as well as the information from the regular weekly blasts, will also be available on the PTO website.

Please contact us with questions, comments or items to submit (editor@williamspto.org).

Here is the link to the most recent Community News listings on the website.

To submit Community News items, please contact newsletter@williamspto.org.

Thanks! Tracey Lavey and Wendy Hurwitz

Coming up at Williams:
Tuesday, December 7th, 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Inclusion Week Coffee (see below)
Thursday, December 16, Schoolwide Early Release, 12:30 p.m.
Friday, December 24, No School, Winter Vacation

In this Issue:

• News From Dr. Connolly
• News From Mrs. Callaghan
• Fundraising Events and Opportunities
• Program Updates: Understanding Our Differences, Special Education, Library News, News from Nurse Dolly
• Around Newton

DECEMBER NEWS FROM DR. CONNOLLY:

Hello Williams Community,

We are now into the fourth month of the school year and faculty, staff and students are continuing to work hard. I want to thank all of the teachers and families who were able to come and participate in Technology Night. It was a nice opportunity to see some of the ways that teachers have been able to use the new technology provided by the PTO to enhance children’s educational opportunities and experiences. I invite you to visit Ms. Kosmo’s website for many wonderful, safe websites that you could use at home with your children.

As we enter the holiday season, I would like to thank all the families who supported the canned food and toy drives to benefit those in need. There are many families in our own school community that given the fiscal environment have themselves fallen on difficult financial times. If you have the means, we know Williams folks who would be appreciative of your generosity and kindness and would love to receive gift cards to stores such as Shaw’s, Target, and CVS. Gift cards can be left with Dr.Gold or Mrs. Callaghan in the office.

I want to take some time to discuss another initiative that we have undertaken in full this year at Williams. Response to Intervention (RTI) came out of the re-authorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) which became effective on October 13, 2006.

IDEA is the federal law that provides protections and guidelines for children with disabilities. RTI strategies are tools that enable educators to target instructional interventions to children’s areas of specific need as soon as those needs become apparent.

The essential elements of an RTI approach are: the provision of scientific, research-based instruction and interventions in general education; monitoring and measurement of student progress in response to the instruction and interventions; and use of these measures of student progress to shape instruction and make educational decisions. This three pronged or tiered approach is being used with the mathematics curriculum and the literacy curriculum in the Newton Public Schools.

What does this look like at the Williams School?

First, in the immediacy of instruction, if a teacher realizes that a student does not understand a concept being taught, the teacher presents the information in a different way and stays with the student until they gain an understanding of the concept.

Second, all grade levels at Williams have intervention periods, four times a week, when students who did not grasp an identified concept or skill can be taught in small targeted groups. During this time, other students are engaged in different academic activities including, when appropriate, enhancement and challenge work.

If it is the case that a particular child, after receiving multiple, consistent interventions, is not found to make effective progress in a particular area (i.e. reading), the pre-referral process for special education services might then begin. Before this point however, parents and guardians have been made aware of the struggles that their child may be having and in many cases are part of the interventions.

The goal of RTI is to reduce the number of children being referred for special education for “specific learning disabilities” if in fact they do not have a disability but just need more intensive instruction for a period of time.

If you have any further questions about RTI or and other initiatives going on at Williams please contact me.

Best,
Dr. Midge Connolly
midge_connolly@newton.k12.ma.us

NEWS FROM MRS. CALLAGHAN:

It has come to my attention that many of you haven’t heard the news about a change to the Williams School front office. After 11 years at the Williams School, I will be retiring on February 4, 2011. I have enjoyed getting to know you and your children. I have watched children begin as kindergarteners and before I knew it, they were leaving as pre-teens entering middle school….

I have been fortunate to have worked for four principals, who, although very different, were all dedicated to the education of children and worked hard to maintain the warm and welcoming culture that makes Williams School such a special place.

I consider myself very lucky to have worked with such a talented staff and the wonderful families that make up the Williams School.

I hope that by leaving mid year, I will give my replacement plenty of time to get ready for the much busier times at the end of the school year and the start up in September – two periods that are very, very challenging, especially for someone new!

I wish you all a joyous holiday season and will miss my contact with you and your children.

Fondly, Dottie Callaghan

Looking ahead: Kindergarten 2011-2012
If you have a child who will turn 5 years old by August 31, 2011 and will attend Kindergarten this coming September, please be sure the office has your child’s name and date of birth. (If you already returned the post card you got a couple of months ago, you need not call). If you have a neighbor who has a child ready for kindergarten, please ask them to call the Williams Office (617-559-6480) as soon as possible. Thank you.

FUNDRAISING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES:
Here are some great ways to earn money for the Williams PTO while you do your holiday shopping:
Amazon.com: Remember to Shop amazon.com through the Williams link and earn money for Williams while you shop. Amazon will donate between 4-10% of sales to the Williams PTO every time you enter the Amazon website through the link on the Williams PTO website. It’s a simple and easy way to earn money for the Williams PTO while doing your holiday shopping.

Boxtops Marketpace: The Box Tops for Education Marketplace makes it possible to earn money for the Williams PTO every time you shop online. All you need to do is register at the Box Tops website and then start each shopping trip from their online marketplace. Over 100 stores including Target, Lands’ End, Gap, Apple Store, and the Kodak Gallery will donate a portion of each purchase at no additional cost to you.

Onecause.com: The Onecause.com marketplace also allows you to earn money for the Williams PTO when you shop.Hundreds of stores participate in this program, including Garnet Hill, LL Bean, Pottery Barn and more. Just log on, register and start shopping.

Target: Do you have a Target REDcard?? You can support the Williams PTO every time you make a purchase!
The Take Charge of Education initiative offers cardholders the chance to designate an eligible K-12 school and have Target donate an amount equal to one percent of their REDcardSM (Target® Visa® Credit Card, Target Credit CardSM and Target Check CardSM) purchases made at Target and Target.com. In addition, Target donates ½ percent of all Target Visa Credit Card purchases made everywhere else Visa credit cards are accepted.
To enroll and choose Williams as your benefit school, visit Target.com/tcoe, call 1-800-316-6142

Borders: This weekend only! If you happen to make a purchase at a Borders bookstore this weekend (excluding the Chestnut Hill store, which is closing), please obtain the free DonorChoose.org gift card and drop it in the PTO box.

Follow up: TRICK OR TREAT FOR UNICEF
Williams students did a fabulous job on Halloween by Trick-or-treating for UNICEF! 103 students raised $776.79 in just a few hours!
These funds will help to save children’s lives in over 150 countries and territories!
Thank you to everyone who participated!

PROGRAM UPDATES:

Understanding Our Differences:
Understanding Our Differences will be presenting interactive units about medical conditions and disabilities in the 3rd, 4th and 5th grades in the New Year. Volunteers are needed to run interactive activites to small groups of 6-8 children. Thank you to all the parents who have helped out in the 4th and 5th grades on TAP Thursdays in November

Parents are needed to volunteer for the following units:

4th Grade:
Intellectual Disabilities: Friday, Jan 14th , 9:30-10:30 am
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Friday, Feb 11th, 9:30-10:30 am

5th Grade:
Epilepsy: Friday, Jan 28th, 9-10 am

3rd Grade:
Blindness: Friday, March 4th, 9:30-10:30 am
Deafness: Friday, April 1st, 9:30-10:30 am
Allergies: Friday April 29th, 9:30-10:30 am

Parents who are interested in volunteering can contact Ann Hill at
annbusbyhill@verizon.net

Special Education:
Tuesday, December 7th, 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m, Williams Cafeteria Inclusion Week Panel Discussion with Newton Public School Top School Officials
We are delighted to announce a special morning panel discussion with several of Newton Public Schools’ top educators to discuss how they are working to foster inclusion and academic excellence throughout the school system. The panel will include:
Joe Russo, Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education
Judy Levin Charns, Assistant Superintendent for Student Services
Robin Fabiano, Co-Director of Elementary Student Services
Jody Klein, K-12 Coordinator, English Language Learners
We will also have participation from Williams’ children at various grade levels who will show us how they are working together to create an inclusive school for all kids.
Coffee and continental breakfast will be provided.
Sponsored by the Williams Special Education PAC. Beth Doran, Vivian Glassman Grosser and Gail Sokoloff
Williams Library News, November, 2010, from Cheryl Kosmo:

Fifth Graders had a chance to do some Reader’s Theater in library class. The students worked in groups, chose their plays, their parts, practiced and then performed them for each other in the auditorium. They also worked on becoming proficient with some of the resources on the Williams Library website and volunteered to model them at tech night.

Fourth Graders learned about using the World Book Online for research. We have a school subscription to this and other online databases through the Minuteman Regional Library Network. You can get access to these resources at home by using your Newton Free Library card.

Third Graders extended their classroom study of trees to the library where they worked in pairs to answer some questions about trees using an online resource called “Trees are Terrific.” You can see it at: http://urbanext.illinois.edu/trees1/index2.html. We are going to present our information about trees in a KidPix slideshow. Watch for it soon on our website.

Second Graders read some more examples of Caldecott Medal winners. We read “The Three Pigs” by David Wiesner and viewed “Lon Po Po, a Red Riding Hood story from China” by Ed Young, using Scholastic’s Bookflix. Also you can now view our ABC book in Voicethread by going to the Williams Library website and clicking on “class projects completed in the library.”

First Graders created Avatars using the website “Build Your Wild Self.” Check it out at: http://www.buildyourwildself.com/ An avatar is an electronic image that you use to represent yourself on a computer. An avatar is not only fun to create, but you can use it instead of your real image when you need to have an identity on a computer game or other electronic tool. It is also a nice activity for the students to be able to think about themselves using an imaginative and creative venue. You can see the Avatars on the library website by clicking on “class projects created in the library.”

Kindergartners are learning the meaning of the words “fiction” and “nonfiction” and how it is important to choose the kind of book that you want to read. We used “Wild about books” and “Our seasons” to discusses differences in fiction and nonfiction text. We viewed a nonfiction book about libraries on Scholastic Bookflix to compare Wild About Books and Welcome to the library.

Questions? Cheryl_Kosmo@newton.k12.ma.us

News from Nurse Dolly:
Each year the Health and Human Services Department partners with the Jordan Bennet Weiss Fund to help raise awareness of the signs of diabetes. Please familiarize yourself with the common warning signs, and contact Nurse Dolly (dolly_staulo@newton.k12.ma.us) with any questions.

AROUND NEWTON:
Tuesday, December 7, 7:00 – 8:30 P.M. Are you wondering what is being done to address bullying in your child’s school? Come and learn one of the ways in which the Newton Public Schools are addressing the problem. What Can Parents Do to Stop Bullying? The Steps to Respect Curriculum for Elementary Students in Newton will be presented Tuesday, December 7th, 7:00 – 8:30 P.M. at Bowen Elementary School, 280 Cypress Street, Newton 02459.

All of the items featured in this extended blast, as well as the information from the regular weekly blasts, will also be available on the PTO website.

Please contact us with questions, comments or items to submit (editor@williamspto.org).

Here is the link to the most recent Community News listings on the website.  To submit Community News items, please contact newsletter@williamspto.org.

Thanks!  Tracey Lavey and Wendy Hurwitz

Coming up at Williams:
Tuesday, November 9, Walk (or bike or scooter) to School!

Tuesday, November 9, Flu Vaccination Clinic at Williams

Consent/Screening Form

Vaccine Administration Record and Insurance Information Form

Tuesday, November 9, Picture Retake Day
Retakes of all class pictures and any individual photo retakes requested (send original picture package to school with a note to the photographer explaining why you were not happy with the original photo).
Questions?  Wendy Woodruff (wrwoodruff@yahoo.com); Hayward Photography (617-698-1840).

Thursday, November 11, NO SCHOOL, Veteran’s Day
Friday, November 12, Book Fair, Bake Sale, Movie Night (details below)
Friday, November 12, Last day to return your filled orange UNICEF boxes; send them to school with your child or drop them off in the office.
In this Issue:

News From Dr. Connolly

Fundraising Events and Opportunities:
Fall Book Fair/Bake Sale/Pizza Movie Night, Just Next Door Shopping Day, Summer Camp Auction

Program Updates:
Creative Arts & Sciences, Understanding Our Differences, Special Education

Around Newton:
Town Hall Meetings, Satisfaction Survey

On the first Friday of each month we will be sending an “extended blast” including all of the items you are used to seeing in the Word from Williams, such as a note from Dr. Connolly and program and event updates.

In this age of technology, this seems like the most efficient means of communication for all.  All of the items featured in this extended blast, as well as the information from the regular weekly blasts, will also be available on the PTO website.

Please contact us with questions, comments or items to submit (editor@williamspto.org).

We will also link to Community News listings on the website many weeks.  To submit Community News items, please contact newsletter@williamspto.org.

Thanks!  Tracey Lavey and Wendy Hurwitz

In this Issue:

News From Dr. Connolly

Coming up at Williams:
Fall PTO Meeting, Community Dinner, Halloween Happenings, Room Parents Still Needed!

Fundraising Events and Opportunities:
Costume Sale, Gift Wrap, Campaign for Williams, Boxtops, amazon.com, Book Fair/Readathon Update

Program Updates:Creative Arts & Sciences, Understanding Our Differences, Special Education

OCTOBER NEWS FROM DR. CONNOLLY:

Thanks to hard work from Williams faculty and staff as well as parents, the first few weeks of school have gone smoothly. We are off to a wonderful start! We have much to accomplish over the next nine months, and with the dedication of our teachers and assistance from you, Williams will continue to be a wonderful school where all children can reach their highest potential.

I want to take this opportunity to recognize those families that use the Blue Zone.  For the most part, things have been going well, whether it is because you are choosing to come a few minutes after 3:00 p.m. or you are just willing to take a loop or two around the block.  Your efforts are making the Blue Zone safer for our children.  I do have three requests. First, if your child does not yet have the skill to safely buckle themselves in, please work on teaching your children to buckle their own seat belts, as the added time this takes can cause the Blue Zone to back up.  Next, please have all children exit and enter from the right (passenger) side of the car closest to the school.  Finally, please remember not to block the cross walk even if it is just with your rear tires.  Again, thanks for your civility and patience in the Blue Zone.

A Call for Volunteers: I know that many Williams’ families are extremely busy and that in many cases, both parents work, are in school, or are at home with small children. I am aware that this makes it extremely difficult for parents to come in during the school day.  However, we are in need of volunteers in all Williams classrooms to work with children during literacy instruction.  Literacy is one of the major areas of focus for the professional development of the Williams faculty and staff this year.

In order for this program to work optimally, parents will not be able to volunteer in their own children’s classroom(s).  Also, it is important that volunteers for this program be able to commit to volunteer on a consistent basis.  At this time, I am asking for any parents who could arrange to come in once or twice a week, or every two weeks or even once a month, on a consistent basis, to volunteer.  We would provide you with very basic training necessary to work with children in the area of literacy.

If you would like to learn more about the volunteer plan, please contact me directly (midge_connolly@newton.k12.ma.us; 617-559-6480).  We will certainly put your time to good use!

COMING UP AT WILLIAMS:

Tuesday, October 5, 7:30 p.m. Fall PTO Meeting

Please join us at this important meeting where we will vote on the PTO budget for the 2010-2011 school year.  In addition, Dr. Connolly will discuss how Williams students performed on last year’s MCAS tests.

Saturday, October 16, 7:00 p.m. Community Dinner
The 1st Annual Williams Community Dinner promises to be the social event of the fall!  It isn’t too late to RSVP! http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/X3F8W3Q
We need your responses by Sunday October 3 in order to schedule your dinner assignments; we will be sending assignments by next Wednesday the 6th.
Please remember to book your babysitter as the dinner is for adults only.  We look forward to seeing you!
Questions?  Carol Bradford-Roe (cjb_roe@yahoo.co.uk)

Friday, October 29, 6:30-8:00 p.m.Halloween Festival
Fun, Food, Games, Prizes, Music and much more… Don’t be a goblin — take your children to the Williams Halloween Festival!!!!
Volunteers needed to: bake cakes (Halloween theme), run games, paint faces (art degree not necessary), help at the craft table, set up and clean up!  Any special talents you can share will be greatly appreciated.
Contact Christine Lacey (christinelacey@gmail.com) or Lauren Brooks (lbfbrooks@verizon.net) to volunteer.

Sunday, October 31, Trick or Treat for UNICEF!
This year on Halloween, celebrate 60 years of kids helping kids by Trick-or-Treating for UNICEF! Sixty years ago, America’s kids took to the streets on Halloween collecting change to help children left vulnerable by World War II.
This year, the tradition continues with kids across America making a difference in the lives of children around the world.
You can support Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF by carrying the orange collection box door-to-door, hosting a Halloween party or event, donating online (http://trickortreatforunicef.org/), or by texting the word “TOT” to UNICEF (864233) to donate $5 on your mobile phone.
Watch for further information and the orange collection boxes in your child’s folder as we get closer to the big day!!
Questions?  Suruchi Kaul (kaulx013@umn.edu)

Room Parents Needed:

Are you the parent of a child in Mrs. Dickerson’s class, Mrs. Black/Mrs. Kanode’s class or Mrs. Wall’s class? We need you to volunteer to work with us as a room parent this year!
We have already met with a large group of parents who have volunteered to help build community at Williams this year and we have exciting plans; make sure your child’s class is not left behind!
Please contact us to volunteer or to get more information about what being a room parent at Williams this year is all about.

Noah Feldman (noah_feldman@yahoo.com; 617-244-2952)
Paula Fazli (pfazli@comcast.net; 617-964-0406)
PTO Room Parent Liaisons

FUNDRAISING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES:

Halloween Costume Sale:
The Second Annual Williams Halloween Costume Sale will take place on Friday, October 8th, from 3:00 p.m. — 4:00 p.m. Join us after school on the blacktop to get your kids ready for Halloween!
All costumes will be $5 and Halloween accessories will be $1. All proceeds benefit the Williams School PTO.
We need costume donations! Clean out those old costumes in the basement, attic or garage.  Ask your relatives and friends if they have costumes to donate as well.
Please send costumes to school in plastic bags and leave them outside the classroom door for pick-up.
Questions? Paula Fazli (pfazli@comcast.net)

Gift Wrap Fundraiser; runs through October 16:

We are using a new company this year, Innisbrook, which allows individuals to input their gift wrap orders online! All families are encouraged to order online at www.innisbrook.com; this will save our gift wrap coordinators from having to enter each order into the computer.
There are three options for ordering:
1).  Look through the catalog and share it with family and friends; when you are ready, enter your order information onto the paper order form.  Then, go to www.innisbrook.com and click on EZ order, using 105377 as the Williams School number.  You will be prompted to set up an account for your child(ren), and will then be able to enter the information from your paper form online.  You then save the order, print a payment voucher, and return your voucher and payment (checks payable to Williams PTO) to school in your child’s folder.  Your purchases will be delivered to Williams (you pay no shipping charge) and sent home with your child(ren).
2).  If you would rather shop online without the need for the catalog/paper form and with the ability to pay with a credit card, you will still need to go to www.innisbrook.com, click on EZ order, use 105377 as the Williams School number, and set up an account for your child(ren). Then, choose the option to shop in the online store.  You will be emailed a link to the online store (which offers even more items than the catalog); these purchases still earn money for Williams.  If you choose this option, your purchases will be shipped directly to you; if you spend more than $85, the shipping is free, otherwise a shipping charge will apply.
3).  If you don’t have computer access, feel free to send your paper order form and payment (checks payable to Williams PTO) back to school in your child’s folder.  We will enter the order online for you, and your purchases will be delivered to Williams and sent home with your child(ren).  Please use this option only if you are unable to input the order online yourself!

Questions?  Audrey Kantaros (audrey.kantaros@gmail.com) or Joyce MacDonald (jkase@comcast.net).

Campaign for Williams Update and Reminder:
Thanks to all who have donated to the Campaign for Williams, our fund drive for the Williams PTO!  We have currently raised $12,000 (as well as $1,600 for technology) from about 34% of Williams families!
Remember, our goal is 100% participation from Williams families. No gift is too small.
Donations can be made to the Campaign throughout the month of October by check to the Williams PTO (returned in your child’s folder) or by credit card using the PayPal link on the Williams PTO website.

Send in your Boxtops to raise money for Williams!

We all shop for groceries, sometimes two or three times a week — or more. Now turn those shopping trip into easy cash for our school, and encourage friends to do the same! Just look for the Box Tops logo on hundreds of products like Cheerios®, Hamburger Helper® and Kleenex®, in almost every aisle of the store. All you need to do is clip and send them in – each one is worth 10¢ for your school.
Place them in the folder above the PTO table or put them in an envelope in your child’s folder.
For a complete list of products and information on how you can earn money for Williams school while shopping online, go to www.boxtops4education.com.
Questions? Suruchi Kaul (kaulx013@umn.edu)

Earn money for Williams by shopping at amazon.com!
Last year, Williams families raised over $1,000 for the school without spending any extra money!
Enter Amazon through the Williams PTO website (http://www.williamspto.org/fundraising/amazon/) and Amazon will donate 4% to 6% of your purchases to the Williams PTO!
Bookmark the site using the link through the website and automatically support Williams while you shop!

Readathon Update, Fall Book Fair Coming Soon!

Thank you to all the students who participated in this summer’s Williams PTO Summer Readathon.  The Readathon was a great success with many students setting and exceeding their reading goals this summer.
As soon as all the tallying is complete, we will announce the top readers in each class and award prizes.  Stay tuned for more details.

Mark your calendars… the PTO Fall Book Fair is coming soon on Friday, November 12.

We will need parent volunteers to help at the fair. Contact Heidi Tobin (tobinh@verizon.net)

PROGRAM UPDATES:

Creative Arts & Sciences Update
The Creative Arts & Sciences Committee (CASC) kicked off its first program of the school year with fourth-grade poet-in-residence Andrew Green of Potato Hill Poetry. Green began the first of three consecutive weekly workshops on Friday, September 24.  He is a rising star on the poetry circuit, and this visit was his first to Williams. To learn more about Andrew Green and his workshops, check out http://www.potatohill.com.
On October 29th, kindergarteners, first graders, and second graders will meet award-winning author, African-American historian, and storyteller Irene Smalls (http://www.irenesmalls.com). Smalls’ storytelling and writing are influenced by memories of her childhood in 1950′s Harlem and later the birth of her own three children. She has authored more than a dozen children’s books, including Kevin and His Dad.  Small is known for getting little feet moving during her lively and engaging presentations.
We are still looking for volunteers to help coordinate our 2nd and 5th grade presentations. If you’re interested in hands-on involvement in enriching your child’s curriculum or have any other questions about CASC, please contact Co-Chairs Liz Padula (lizpadula@gmail.com) or Maura Butler (maurabutler@verizon.net).

Understanding Our Differences Update
Understanding Our Differences is a disability and medical condition awareness program started by Newton parents over 30 years ago that is now taught in all Newton Elementary Schools and 200+ schools & organizations nationwide.
The programs include a brief lecture; small-group, hands-on activities; and a speaker who has the disability or medical condition being presented.
Parent volunteers are needed in the 4th grade on Friday, October 15th from 9:00-10:15 am for the Learning Disabilities unit. Volunteers will lead small groups of 6-8 kids through a 15 minute activity. Your kids LOVE to see you in the classroom, and you will enjoy getting to know their classmates. Additional upcoming units include: Diabetes in the 5th grade Thursday, November 4th (volunteers needed 1:00-2:00) and Physical Disabilities in the 4th grade on Thursday, November 18th (volunteers needed 1:00-2:00).
Contact Ann Hill (annbusbyhill@rcn.com) with questions and to volunteer.

Special Education Update
We would like to re introduce ourselves to the Williams community.  For the 2010-2011 school year, we will again be serving as co-liaisons to the Newton SPED PAC on behalf of Williams. As the Newton SPED PAC co-liaisons, we have agreed to be resources to parents at Williams School concerning the PAC and special education.  We will regularly attend the Newton SPED PAC meetings and will relay important information back to the Williams community.  While we will not have all the answers, we will do our best to connect you with other parents or professionals who can help you, including our own special education professionals at Williams.  The Newton SPED PAC officers are also extremely knowledgeable about SPED regulations, laws and policies, and are available to assist the liaisons in addressing SPED issues for parents.
So, what is a SPED PAC? Massachusetts Special Education law requires that every school district establish a Parent Advisory Council or “PAC” “to advise the school committee on matters that pertain to the education, health and safety of children with special needs. The Newton Parent Advisory Council for Special Education (SPED PAC) serves as a parent resource and as a liaison between parents and the administration.  It is an all-volunteer organization of parents of children with disabilities who meet to learn more about special education programs, issues, policies, regulations, and resources. The Newton SPED PAC sponsors monthly informational meetings, maintains an online discussion group, and works with the school administration regarding our children’s education. All parents, teachers, specialists and others with an interest in education are welcome to participate in the SPED PAC activities. For more information, contact info@newtonpac.org or see http://www.newtonpac.org/.
We hope you will feel comfortable contacting us if you have a question or a concern about your child. All information relayed to us is confidential and will only be shared with your permission. We will do our best to ensure that you have access to the best information and resources available and that the needs of all children at Williams are met.
Upcoming PAC meetings:
Tuesday, October, 5th - Presentation and Discussion of Newton’s Special Education Programs for Elementary School Students
Join Judy Levin-Charns, Assistant Superintendent for Student Services, special education staff and other parents to learn more about the special education programs offered by NPS.  Bring your questions!  Plus, our new superintendent, David Fleishman will join us for a few minutes at the beginning of the meeting.
Wednesday, October 20th - The PAC hosts an Inclusive Schools Week Kick-off and Brainstorming Session
Unless otherwise noted, all PAC presentations begins at 7:30 pm at the Education Center, 100 Walnut St, Room 210, Newtonville. Please feel free to come for light refreshments and networking beginning at 7:15 pm.
NewtonPAC meetings are open to all people interested in learning more about special education in Newton.
Other events happening:
Best Buddies of Massachusettshas 2 events coming up:
The 3rd Annual Audi Evening of Opportunity! October 6th,  6:00pm at the Seaport Hotel.  Enjoy wine, passed hors d’oeuvres, live music and a short program including auctions and raffles.  All proceeds directly support Best Buddies Massachusetts and their efforts to make our community a more inclusive one for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  To purchase your ticket today, visit http://www.bestbuddiesma.org/eoo
5K Road Race! Burn Some Calories before Thanksgiving and benefit a great cause.  Best Buddies is sponsoring a 5K road race Saturday, November 20th at 9 am. Registration and check in starts at 7 am at the Cunningham School in Milton. Visit the official Event Website at www.bestbuddiesma.org/5k.  Fees: $20 in advance, $25 race day, USTAF Certified Course and prizes for the top fundraisers and finishers!
The Williams School SPED PAC Committee:
Beth Doran (bdoran@speedousa.com), Vivian Glassman-Grosser (viviang97@hotmail.com), Gail Sokoloff (gasok@aol.com)

• Williams Technology Fund Drive In Full Swing and Moving Forward
• News From Williams Principal Dr. Midge Connolly
• Understanding Our Differences Program Educates Students, Seeks Volunteers
• Come Enjoy An Evening of Cabernet & Cabaret
• Fifth Grade Class Looking for New or Used Laser Printer
• Newton SpedPAC Alerts Parents to Several Events
• PTO Co-Presidentsʼ Column
• Community Listings

Here it is! The December Word From Williams from Newsletter Editor Christine Lacey will tell you everything you need to know before you head off for a well-deserved vacation.

Please check the Community News Listings as well.