ARBOR HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

3701 S.W. 104^th Street * Seattle, WA 98146

http://www.halcyon.com/arborhts

Phone (206) 933-5350 / Fax (206) 933-5351

Parent Bulletin

November 29, 2001

Dear Parent/Guardians,

“The use of technology in our schools” can no longer be considered a “catch phrase.” The tools of technology continue to revolutionize both business and education.

Computers are only one part of technology but an important factor in improving student achievement. Computers can motivate students and enhance their abilities in all subject areas. Most important is literacy proficiency as it is the key to all other disciplines.

We are in a knowledge based society in which critical thinking, communication and teamwork are crucial. Supporting technology at Arbor Heights for staff and students encourages:

· artistic expression

· creative problem solving

· learning, regardless of development and/or learning rates

· meaningful work that has value in the future and outside of school

· increased productivity and efficiency

Arbor Heights Elementary School has an active Technology Committee. We have new computers with internet access in every classroom. If you are interested in designing more learning experiences and increasing educational potential, I invite you to join this committee. The future of our children depends on our partnership and the belief in the African proverb:

It takes an entire village to raise a child.

Sincerely,

Carol A. Coram, Ed.D

Principal

Junk Food Advertisements Influence Children As Young As Preschool

A new study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association finds that not only is TV advertising effective on the young children in a less than nutritious way.

The study examined the effect of “junk” food advertising on preschool children (aged 2-6) enrolled in a Head Start program in California. They presented the kids with pictures of the advertised products, along with similar competitors’ products. When given a choice of foods, the children overwhelmingly in most cases, picked the advertised products. It may help to start now to education your children about the purpose of advertisement. Let them know that ads are designed to sell them the product and do not necessarily have anything to do with taste or quality. Help them learn to question and analyze what the selling tactics are in commercials. We can start now and help our children become wise and informed consumers.

From Dr. Reineke – Hi, Instrumental Music Parents! I am sending home interim reports with every instrumental music student this week. These reports are designed to give you a heads up so that if there are any problems we can fix them now. Thanks for allowing your child to participate!

Help Wanted – Volunteers for the library. One or two hours per week, to help put books away. Time frame: 9:00 – 12:00 or 2:00 – 3:00. Any day except Tuesday. Contact Ms. Napolitan in the library.

Fifth Grade Families – Washington Middle School will hold tours for prospective students for the 2002/2003 school year on the following days:

February 28^th, March 7^th, 14^th and 21^st from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. It is not necessary to sign up for any of the tours. If you have questions please call the school at 252-2600.

We need volunteers to work with the Pacific Science Van on Wednesday, December 5^th. Please call Mrs. Rogers in the school office for more information (252-9250).

Mark your calendar – Thursday, December 20^th is the Arbor Heights Winter Program. The daytime performance will begin at 1:30. There are two evening performances. Kindergarten through second grade will perform from 6:30 – 7:15 p.m., grades three through five perform from 7:30 – 8:15 p.m. The lunchroom will be cleared at 7:15 to make room for those coming to the second performance. It does get crowded (and warm) so please come prepared. Many times it is standing room only, but it’s worth it to see your child performing under Ms. Bailey’s tutelage.