Friday, March 28, 2014

Friday Notes 3-28-14

BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL TRYOUTS FOR GRADES 7 AND 8
Tryouts for middle school students interested in baseball or softball will begin on April 7th. See Mr. Testo for the proper paperwork to play.

6th ANNUAL L&G SPRING BASEBALL CLINIC
Mr. Russell and Mr. Testo will be hosting a spring baseball clinic on April 14th and 15th from 8:30am-12pm. The clinic is for boys and girls grades 1-6 and boys’ grades 7-12.
The focus of the 2 day clinic will be the following:
  1. Proper throwing/pitching
  2. Hitting drills
  3. Infield and Outfield Drills
  4. Catching drills
  5. Team play
Bring baseball equipment, sneakers, drink and a snack.

For registration or further questions, please contact Mr. Russell at 365-7355 x151 and/or Mr. Testo at x205.

Hope to see you there!!!

SPRING SPORTS TEAM PICTURES
Pictures will happen for all spring teams on Wednesday April 23rd at 230pm. Student-athletes will be bringing forms home in the near future if you are interested in ordering pictures.

JR. IRON CHEF TEAM
Congratulations to the Leland and Gray Jr. Iron Chef team for winning one of three awards given at Saturday's state competition. The team won the Misen Place award which recognized the team for their “exemplary teamwork, order, and professionalism." The team members are: Casey Williams, Bailey Gouin, Kaylah Jacobs, Fairen Stark, and Nastia Stevens. The team was coached by Abbey Food Group Chef Joe Gerardi and FACS Teacher Sue Jones. Way to go Rebel Amiga’s!

SOPHOMORES AND JUNIORS
You wouldn't buy shoes before trying them on. You shouldn't pick a college major without trying it out!
Vermont Tech "Try a Major Day" 
Friday, April 18th, 2014 from 9am-2pm
Offering hands-on programs in Aviation, Diversified Agriculture, Engineering Technology, IT & Computer Engineering, Nursing & Allied Health, Veterinary Technology, and many more. 
To register and get more details, visit

HEY! You!!
The Late Bus runs Monday (3/31), Tuesday (4/1), Wednesday (4/2) and Thursday (4/3) next week. For information on the late bus route and dates available for the 2013-2014 school year please visit www.lelandandgray.org; click on late bus schedule.
  
Look for HEY! Help Mon. - Fri. mornings (7:15-7:45 AM) and Mon.- Thurs. afternoons (2:45- 4:15 PM). On Monday, HEY! Help meets in A-11. On Tuesday, look for HEY! Help, Newspaper, Weight Training, D & D, RAMP, and Robotics in A-12 and Knitting with Ms. Hanson in FACS.  Wednesday: HEY! Help, Knitting, and D & D.  Thursday: CLEA, LGTV Station, Knitting, and Theatrical Lighting Workshop in Dutton.  Friday: the GSA will meet with Ms. DeBisschop in B-14.  Coming soon:  Biking, Ultimate Frisbee, and a free SAT Prep Course for juniors starting on April 21.

Student Counselors:  come to a lunch meeting on Thursday, April 3 at 12:34 PM in FACS.  Please bring your session #5 schedules to this meeting.  See Victoria Chertok, interim student counselor director, in the library, with any questionsRemember to check the HEY! Website for updates on programs, and you can always ask Victoria Chertok for information or email her atafterschool@lelandandgray.org.  Congratulations to Leland & Gray’s Jr. Iron Chef Team and coaches Susan Jones and Chef Joe, for winning the Misen Place award at this year’s statewide competition on March 22! Way to go Rebel Amigas!

L&G SOOCER CAMP-DATE CHANGES!!!
High School Boys and Girls grades 7-12 will now be July 14th –July 18th, so that players can now attend the Keene State Team Soccer Camp.

HIGH SCHOOL DANCE TO SUPPORT THE GREECE TRIP!
High School Dance!  Come support the Greece travelers and DANCE!  Friday, March 28, 7-10, Dutton Gym.  Admission: $5; refreshments by donation.

MIDDLE SCHOOL SEMI-FORMAL
**New Date**
May 24th
Old Hollywood Dance 
Middle School Student Council
7-10 
Dutton Gym 

L&G 2014 PROM
Date: Saturday April 26th
Time: 7-11pm
Where: Stratton Mountain Club

CLASS OF 2014
We are collecting pictures for the slideshow traditionally done on class night. If you, your families, neighbors, friends, or former teachers have any pictures of groups of seniors from when they were younger we would love them! Email Megan Altshuler or Jeryl Julian-Cisse any photos you would like to share. Please feel free to send in all those silly shots from birthdays, school trips, and toddler play dates! Don't forget to check the senior page on the L&G website for senior info, www.lelandandgray.org. There is a link on the left side of the home page.

Senior Class Advisors
Megan Altshuler - maltshuler@lelandandgray.org
Jeryl Julian-Cisse - jjulian-cisse@lelandandgray.org

14TH ANNUAL JAMAICA SCHOOL CLUB PENNY SALE
Saturday, March 29, 2014 at Leland and Gray Union Middle High School Toiwnshend, VT Doors open at 5:30pm. Fun for the entire family!

NOTES FROM THE SENIOR CLASS!!!
The senior class has been working all year to fundraiser for the class trip and for Project Gradation. This year’s class has decided to go to the Keene YMCA where they can swim, rock climb, play basketball, and jump in foam pits. On April 3rd and 4th the senior class will be having a dodgeball tournament. Each team consists of six players, can be any combination of staff and student but must be coed. Each team has an entry fee of $30.00, or $5.00 per player and has to have a wavier signed by a parent or guardian. There will also be a by donation bake sale and entry by donation as well. Please help support the senior class, form a team, donate a baked good or come and watch teams compete! See Jaclyn for more information.

GUIDING GOOD CHOICES-PARENT WORKSHOP OFFERED IN TOWNSHEND
Windham County, VT – West River Valley Thrives is pleased to offer the parent class Guiding Good Choices for five consecutive Wednesdays starting April 2nd from 5:30pm-7:30 pm through May 7th with no class on April 16th due to school break. Guiding Good Choices is a free workshop for parents and/or caring adults of fourth through eighth graders.  Topics covered include how to set clear expectations and consequences for behavior, manage conflict, strengthen family bonds, and teach kids “refusal” skills to help them resist peer pressure and make healthy choices.  Space is limited so register early!
           
“If you have kids, you owe it to yourself and your family to take this course,” says a local parent who has taken Guiding Good Choices.  Youth report parents and caring adults have the most influence on their behavior. In the mid ‘90s, Dr. David Hawkins and Dr. Richard Catalano of the University of Washington looked at 19 risk factors that affect children in their teenage years. They discovered that parents and other adult caregivers play a major role in keeping kids on track.
Come learn the skills to help you and your tween and teen! The course is free and open to parents and caring adults throughout Windham County. Parent resources and snacks are provided - child care is available for this workshop. Participants could even win up to a $50 value gas card.  Space is limited to 14 participants and pre-registration is required. Contact Jennifer Esposito, West River Valley Thrives, at 802-365-1597 or WRVThrives@gmail.com or go directly to www.Eventbright.com to register.

This class is made possible by the Windham County Partnership for Success, a collaboration of the Brattleboro Area Prevention Coalition, West River Valley Thrives Coalition, Greater Falls Prevention Coalition, Deerfield Valley Community Partnership and The Collaborative and the Vermont Department of Health.

THE GREECE TRAVELERS
The Greece Travelers will host an All-school dance Friday, March 28 from 7-10 in Dutton.  Admission: $5.  Come have fun and support a good cause at the same time!

TEAMS SOUGHT FOR BOWL FOR KIDS’ SAKE BENEFIT
Brattleboro, VT--Families, friends and teams from school are invited to celebrate the 33rd Annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake to benefit Youth Services’ Big Brothers Big Sisters program on Saturday, April 5.  The fundraising event will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with teams signing up NOW for a one-hour time slot at Brattleboro Bowl on Putney Road. 
The 4-5 p.m. time is reserved for teams of teens and “Bigs and Littles” and will have a special “Cosmic Bowling” atmosphere. The financial goal of the event is to raise $65,000 in pledge money and business sponsorship to help cover the cost of running the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.
Nearly 150 hundred children in Windham County and nearby New Hampshire benefit from the program each year and are matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister. Thirty youngsters, from all towns in the county, are eagerly waiting to be matched with an adult mentor.
Call Youth Services at (802) 257-0361 for pledge sheets and to reserve a lane or for more information about becoming involved.     To learn more or to sponsor your favorite bowlers with an on-line donation, visit www.firstgiving.com/youthservices or mail donations to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windham County, 32 Walnut St., PO Box 6008, Brattleboro, VT 05302-6008.


DANCE on APRIL 11TH  RAISES AWARENESS about CHILDHOOD HUNGER
Brattleboro, VT—The public is invited to attend Youth Services’ substance-free dance party at the Headroom Stages in Brattleboro on April 11, from 7:00 -10:00 p.m.

The event, open to all ages, celebrates Global Youth Service Day by raising awareness about childhood hunger.  According to organizers, it promises to be a rockin’ evening featuring a variety of danceable music hosted by the DJ Manhole Cover. Local youth have helped organize the event, created flyers, posters, and artwork and are preparing the refreshments for the event.

This dance is part of Youth Services’ efforts to provide safe and fun places for youth to gather, a need identified in the year-long qualitative research study spearheaded by the agency several years ago, the Listening Project.  Partial funding for the dance comes from a grant from Youth Service America.

The idea of a fun event to raise awareness about childhood hunger is the brainchild of Youth Services’ Outreach staff Lashaunda Alley, Katarina Rayno and Rachel Forrett who helps give voice to young people’s issues and concerns, acting as liaisons between diverse youth populations and the primarily adult service provider community. The Youth Services program is one of several around the state that address in creative ways the needs of runaway or homeless youth and those living in difficult circumstances.

Admission is by donation. Bring a non-perishable food item to benefit local food shelves or a cash donation to benefit Youth Services’ outreach program.  For more information, contact Youth Services at (802) 257-0361 or visitwww.youthservicesinc.org

A NOTE FROM THE SCHOOL NURSE
Do these scenarios sound familiar?
·         You catch a whiff of a fragrance in the hall or locker room, and within minutes, you have a whopper of a headache.
·         You pop open a new bottle of dish-washing liquid, and by the time you’ve washed the glasses, your hands and arms are covered in hives.
·         You walk into a friend’s home and smell freshly baked pumpkin pie.  Only after you start sneezing uncontrollably and feeling dizzy, weak, and sick to your stomach do you learn she hasn’t been baking—she’s been burning a scented candle.
·         Your favorite fashion magazine arrives, and as soon as it’s out of the mailbox your eyes are watering and you’re sneezing nonstop.   The culprit:  scented fragrance advertising inserts.
If this sounds like you, you may be one of a growing number of people with fragrance allergies or sensitivities that can have mild to severe health consequences.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), fragrances are considered the leading cause of cosmetic contact dermatitis.
We all have to be in the same building during school hours, and being forced to breathe in others’ fragrance choices is a lot like being forced to breathe in secondhand smoke.

Several L&G students and staff are part of this growing group of misunderstood sufferers, and others with vague complaints of dizziness, burning eyes, or itchy skin rashes could be affected by the fragrances in our air and not realize it.  Promoting clean air and foregoing fragrances will improve the health and comfort of many at L&G.

Friday, March 21, 2014

Friday Notes 3-21-14

MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL SPRING SPORTS MEETING
The Middle School and High School Spring Sports Parent/Player/Coach meeting will be held Tuesday 3/25 at 6:30pm in the Main Gymnasium. This meeting requires a mandatory signature for concussion protocol by the state of Vermont…please attend.

BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL TRYOUTS FOR GRADES 9-12
Full team tryouts for Baseball and Softball will begin on March 24th.

HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL PLAYERS
Varsity try-outs will begin on Sunday, March 23rd from 4:00 - 6:00.  All girls planning to go out for JV will begin Monday, March 24th from 5:00 - 7:00.  Make sure your paperwork is complete so you can begin with the team on day one!  Questions??  See Mrs. Claussen…

BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL TRYOUTS FOR GRADES 7 AND 8
Tryouts for middle school students interested in baseball or softball will begin on April 7th. See Mr. Testo for the proper paperwork to play.

SPIRIT WEEK 2014
SPIRIT WEEK 2014 takes place March 17th - 21st!  This year’s theme "Countries Around the World" will have classes working throughout the week to design their presentation for the Float/Skit Parade on Friday.  We will have Olympic Games on Tuesday.  Each day features a dress-up day:  Monday- Green & White; Tuesday- Ugly Clash ; Wednesday- Pajama; Thursday- Crazy Hat/Hair; Friday- Dress to your Country.  The week will culminate with an All-School Dance "Party In The U.S.A." on Friday, March 21st from 7:00 - 10:00pm.  Admission is $3.00.  Music and light show will be provided by Peak Entertainment.  Race against your peers in the Inflatable Obstacle Course as well as an opportunity to play indoor-safe lawn games from around the world.  The L & G Sports Boosters Club will have concessions for sale.  Which class will win SPIRIT WEEK 2014??  That's up to you!

LELAND AND GRAY JR. IRON CHEF
The “Rebel Amigas” Jr. Iron Chef team from Leland and Gray Middle and High School has been busy preparing for their upcoming competition. The five-student middle and high school team, comprised of Kaylah Jacobs, Nastai Stevens, Casey Williams, Bailey Gouin, and Fairen Stark will travel to the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction on Saturday, March 22, to participate (and win!) the statewide competition. The judging criteria include execution, teamwork, taste, creativity, best use of local ingredients, and compliance of rules. The team hopes to win the competition with their colorful and flavorful Vegetable and Tofu Cilantro Naan with Parsnip Quenelle and Chili Dipping Sauce. The L&G team is sponsored by The Abbey Groups, the 21st Century Grant, and Leland and Gray and the state event is sponsored by VT FEED. The team is coached by Chef Joe Gerardi and FACS Teacher Sue Jones.

L&G 2014 PROM
Date: Saturday April 26th
Time: 7-11pm
Where: Stratton Mountain Club

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE TRAINING WITH DAN DeWALT
When will it take place? Thursday March 27.
At what time? 2:45pm to 4:15pm
Where will it happen? Leland and Gray. Room location to be determined…
Who is it for? All interested staff and students in both high school and middle school.
Why should I come? Have you found yourself in a conflict with another student or perhaps a teacher or other staff member? Do you wish you can help your friends resolve their differences? Do you want to positively influence the culture of your school? If your answer to any of these questions is yes then you have a reason to get involved with restorative justice practices. By involving yourself you will develop important and marketable listening and mediation skills, enhance your college application, and earn twenty-five dollars ($25.00) if you attend both training sessions. (Stipend offered to students only).
What if I have questions? Speak to Dan DeWalt or Jeremiah Burrow.

CLASS OF 2014
We are collecting pictures for the slideshow traditionally done on class night. If you, your families, neighbors, friends, or former teachers have any pictures of groups of seniors from when they were younger we would love them! Email Megan Altshuler or Jeryl Julian-Cisse any photos you would like to share. Please feel free to send in all those silly shots from birthdays, school trips, and toddler play dates! Don't forget to check the senior page on the L&G website for senior info, www.lelandandgray.org. There is a link on the left side of the home page.

Senior Class Advisors
Megan Altshuler - maltshuler@lelandandgray.org
Jeryl Julian-Cisse - jjulian-cisse@lelandandgray.org

COSTA RICA 2015  
Interested in rainforests, exotic critters, white water rafting, waterfalls, hot springs and volcanoes?  If so, see Mr. Whitman in B14 about joining next February's nine-day trip to Costa Rica.

HEY! You!!
The late bus run Monday (3/24), Tuesday (3/25), Wednesday (3/26) and Thursday (3/27) next week. For information on the late bus route and dates available for the 2013-2014 school year please visit  www.lelandandgray.org; click on late bus schedule.  

Look for HEY! Help Mon.- Fri. mornings (7:15-7:45 AM) and Mon.- Thurs. afternoons (2:45- 4:15 PM). On Monday, HEY! Help meets in A-11. On Tuesday, look for HEY! Help, Newspaper, Weight Training, D & D, RAMP in A-8, Robotics in A-12 and Knitting with Ms. Hanson.  Wednesday, Knitting, D & D and new this week, Theatrical Lighting Workshop, taught by two seniors. This interactive workshop will show students how to design lights for a range of live performances. Thursday, we offer CLEA, LGTV Station, D & D, Knitting, and Restorative Justice Training in FACS.  Fridaythe GSA will meet with Ms. DeBisschop in B-14.  Coming soon:  Biking, Ultimate Frisbee, and a free SAT Prep Course for juniors starting on April 21.

Student Counselors:  Please stop by to see Victoria Chertok, interim student counselor director, in the library, with any questions or if you need any help. Time sheets are due on March 27thRemember to check the HEY! website for updates on programs, and you can always ask Victoria Chertok for information or email her at afterschool@lelandandgray.org.

A NOTE FROM THE SCHOOL NURSE
Flood Safety Awareness Week: Be Prepared Year Round 
Waterbury, Vt. – Gov. Peter Shumlin has signed a proclamation recognizing March 18-22 as Flood Safety Awareness Week in Vermont.  The Vermont Division of Emergency Management, Homeland Security and the National Weather Service are joining the Governor to encourage Vermonters to learn about flood safety and prepare for future floods. 
“Vermonters have learned from some harsh weather over the past couple of years, punctuated by the historic damage wrought by Tropical Storm Irene in 2011, that there are things we can do now to mitigate our risks when flooding occurs” said Vermont Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Director Joe Flynn.
 “Simply charting an evacuation route or learning the distinction between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning can help you make quicker and better decisions when rivers spill their banks,” National Weather Service Burlington Chief Meteorologist Andy Nash added.
 Below is a list of what you can do before, during, and after a flood to help your family escape injury or property losses:
 Know the terms used to describe flooding:
·          
o    Flash Flood – Occurs during heavy rain events and happens very quickly. It ends quickly as well.
o    Flood – Occurs as the result of a more prolonged rain event or lake overflow. It’s more gradual, more predictable, and lasts longer.
o    Flood Watch – Flooding is possible. Watches are issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) 12 to 36 hours in advance of a possible event.
o    Flash Flood Watch – Flash Flooding is possible.  Be prepared to move to higher ground.  A Flash Flood could occur with little or no warning.
o    Flood Warning – Flooding is occurring, or will occur soon.  If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
o    Flash Flood Warning – A flash flood is occurring, or is expected to in a very short time.  Seek higher ground immediately and stay away from streams and creeks.
·  If you ever encounter flood waters NEVER attempt to walk or drive through them (http://www.weather.gov/os/water/tadd/).
·  Monitor Media reports.
·  Ask local officials whether your property is in a flood-prone or high-risk area.  Flood plain maps are available at most town offices or city halls.
·  Know your community’s methods to warn you, if evacuation is necessary.  Listen to local and state Public Safety officials and respond to their directives in a prompt manner.
·  Know your best flood evacuation routes, potential public shelters, and where to find high ground. In a flash flood, you may need to seek high ground on foot quickly.
·  Test your sump pumps.  If possible, have a backup power source.
·  Install ‘check valves’ in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains in your home.
·  Ensure your home is ready. Where possible, minimize damage from basement flooding by elevating utilities and materials that could be damaged by limited basement flooding.
·  Anchor fuel tanks to ensure that they do not wash away; fuel tanks create safety and environmental issues inside or outside the home.
·  Develop a family emergency kit with items like non-perishable food and water, medications, flashlights and batteries, and a battery-powered radio.
·  Make a family communication plan.  Designate an out of state relative as a central point of contact.
·  Learn your community’s emergency plans.
·  When necessary and possible, construct barriers such as levees, berms, and floodwalls to stop floodwater from entering your home or building. Permission to construct such barriers may be required by local building codes. Check local building codes and ordinances for safety requirements.
·  Move children’s toys, patio and lawn furniture, and lawn mowers/snow blowers indoors or to higher ground if flooding is pending.
·  Be prepared to turn off electrical power when there is standing water, fallen power lines, or before you evacuate. Know how to safely turn off gas and water supplies before you evacuate.  Consult an electrician or heating professional before turning utilities back on upon return.
·  You may need to store materials like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and lumber to protect your house from floodwaters and to make quick repairs after a severe storm.
·  Contact your insurance agent or local government to discuss flood insurance coverage. Flood losses are not covered under regular homeowner’s insurance policies. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administers the National Flood Insurance Plan (NFIP) through the Federal Insurance Administration (FIA).  The NFIP makes flood insurance available in communities that adopt and enforce ordinances to reduce flood damage.
·  Contact your local Emergency Management office (usually your city or town office) for more information on mitigation options to further reduce potential flood damage. Your local Emergency Management office may be able to provide additional resources and information regarding ways to reduce potential damage.
The following represent some of the key websites to assist you and your family during times of flooding and type of emergency:

NOTES FROM THE SENIOR CLASS!!!
The senior class has been working all year to fundraiser for the class trip and for Project Gradation. This year’s class has decided to go to the Keene YMCA where they can swim, rock climb, play basketball, and jump in foam pits. On April 3rd and 4th the senior class will be having a dodgeball tournament. Each team consists of six players, can be any combination of staff and student but must be coed. Each team has an entry fee of $30.00, or $5.00 per player and has to have a wavier signed by a parent or guardian. There will also be a by donation bake sale and entry by donation as well. Please help support the senior class, form a team, donate a baked good or come and watch teams compete! See Jaclyn for more information.

WEST RIVER VALLEY THRIVES
West River Valley Thrives invites community members of all ages to dinner and a conversation about prescription drug misuse, Wednesday March 26th at 5:00pm in the Townshend Church on the common across from Leland and Gray.

West River Valley Thrives is a community initiative that is working to prevent the abuse of drugs and alcohol while also promoting healthy lifestyle choices.  This community conversation about prescription drug misuse comes in response to the showing of the movie Hungry Heart at Leland and Gray last January and in response to the latest Youth Risk Behavior Survey data that reports 17% of high school students (32 students) in Windham Central Supervisory Union having misused a stimulant or prescription pain reliever at least once and 8% (15 students) misused prescription drugs in the last 30 days prior to taking the survey. 

“We need to have a local conversation that educates community members about the issue, how it is affecting us locally and what resources are available,” says Julia Hampton, WRVT new director.   There will be professionals speaking to why so many pain relievers are prescribed, why young people use them and how they get a hold of the, what the laws are around use and disposal of prescription drugs as well as the interventions and treatment for someone already addicted.  Those who attend the meeting will have time to talk in small groups with members of the panel and generate a few ideas regarding how we can address this issue.

 This community dinner and conversation will be on Wednesday March 26 at 5:00pm at the Townshend Church on the Common in Townshend across from Leland and Gray.  For more information contact Julia Hampton at wrvtdirector@gmail.com or call 802-25-0424.

GUIDING GOOD CHOICES-PARENT WORKSHOP OFFERED IN TOWNSHEND
Windham County, VT – West River Valley Thrives is pleased to offer the parent class Guiding Good Choices for five consecutive Wednesdays starting April 2nd from 5:30pm-7:30 pm through May 7th with no class on April 16th due to school break. Guiding Good Choices is a free workshop for parents and/or caring adults of fourth through eighth graders.  Topics covered include how to set clear expectations and consequences for behavior, manage conflict, strengthen family bonds, and teach kids “refusal” skills to help them resist peer pressure and make healthy choices.  Space is limited so register early!
           
“If you have kids, you owe it to yourself and your family to take this course,” says a local parent who has taken Guiding Good Choices.  Youth report parents and caring adults have the most influence on their behavior. In the mid ‘90s, Dr. David Hawkins and Dr. Richard Catalano of the University of Washington looked at 19 risk factors that affect children in their teenage years. They discovered that parents and other adult caregivers play a major role in keeping kids on track.
Come learn the skills to help you and your tween and teen! The course is free and open to parents and caring adults throughout Windham County. Parent resources and snacks are provided - child care is available for this workshop. Participants could even win up to a $50 value gas card.  Space is limited to 14 participants and pre-registration is required. Contact Jennifer Esposito, West River Valley Thrives, at 802-365-1597 or WRVThrives@gmail.com or go directly to www.Eventbright.com to register.

This class is made possible by the Windham County Partnership for Success, a collaboration of the Brattleboro Area Prevention Coalition, West River Valley Thrives Coalition, Greater Falls Prevention Coalition, Deerfield Valley Community Partnership and The Collaborative and the Vermont Department of Health.

TRIP TO GREECE FUNDRAISER
The Greece Travelers will host a high school dance Friday, March 28 from 7-10.  Admission: $5.  Come have fun and support a good cause at the same time!

MUSIC DEPARTMENT
The Leland and Gray Middle School Chorus and The Rebel Clefs wowed the audience at the Kurn Hattin Choral Invitational on Wednesdaynight. The middle school chorus sang a Scottish folk song, a contemporary hit by Passenger and rocked the house with Michael Jackson's "Man in the Mirror." The Rebel Clefs a cappella group sang a 1920's song about Istanbul, a Serbo-Croatian song, and finally, Addie Mahdavi brought the house down, singing lead on her arrangement of Pharrell Williams' "Happy."

Any middle or high school students who are interested in playing in JV Jazz should talk to Mr. Kelley as soon as possible.

Friday, March 14, 2014

Friday Notes 3-14-14

MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL SPRING SPORTS MEETING
The Middle School and High School Spring Sports Parent/Player/Coach meeting will be held Tuesday 3/25 at 6:30pm in the Main Gymnasium. This meeting requires a mandatory signature for concussion protocol by the state of Vermont…please attend.

BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL TRYOUTS FOR GRADES 9-12
Baseball tryouts will begin on March 17th for pitchers and catchers 4-6pm in the Main Gym.
Full team tryouts for Baseball and Softball will begin on March 24th.
Sign-ups will begin after February vacation.

HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL PLAYERS
There will be a lunch time meeting for all high school girls playing softball this spring on Tuesday, March 18th in the gymnasium.  Please come for the last ten minutes of lunch.  Varsity try-outs will begin on Sunday, March 23rd from 4:00 - 6:00.  All girls planning to go out for JV will begin Monday, March 24th from 5:00 - 7:00.  Make sure your paperwork is complete so you can begin with the team on day one!  Questions??  See Mrs. Claussen… There will be three more OPEN GYM nights on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday of next week from 6:00 - 8:00!  Hope many of you can make it!

BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL TRYOUTS FOR GRADES 7 AND 8
Tryouts for middle school students interested in baseball or softball will begin on April 7th. Sign-ups will begin after February vacation.

LELAND AND GRAY’S MIDDLE SCHOOL CHORUS AND THE REBEL CLEFS
Leland and Gray's Middle School Chorus and the Rebel Clefs (aka the a cappella group) will be performing at the Kurn Hattin Choral Invitational on Wednesday, March 19th. The concert takes place at 7PM in the Mayo Auditorium at the Kurn Hattin School in Westminster.

SPIRIT WEEK 2014
SPIRIT WEEK 2014 takes place March 17th - 21st!  This years theme "Countries Around the World" will have classes working throughout the week to design their presentation for the Float/Skit Parade on Friday.  We will have Olympic Games on Tuesday.  Each day features a dress-up day:  Monday- Green & White; Tuesday- Ugly Clash ; Wednesday- Pajama; Thursday- Crazy Hat/Hair; Friday- Dress to your Country.  The week will culminate with an All-School Dance "Party In The U.S.A." on Friday, March 21st from 7:00 - 10:00pm.  Admission is $3.00.  Music and light show will be provided by Peak Entertainment.  Race against your peers in the Inflatable Obstacle Course as well as an opportunity to play indoor-safe lawn games from around the world.  The L & G Sports Boosters Club will have concessions for sale.  Which class will win SPIRIT WEEK 2014??  That's up to you!

LELAND AND GRAY JR. IRON CHEF
The Leland and Gray Jr. Iron Chef team will be traveling to the Champlain Valley Expo, in Essex Junction, VT on Saturday, March 22, 2014 to participate in (an win!) this statewide competition. Five students (Kaylah Jacobs, Fairen Stark, Nastia Stevens, Bailey Gouin, and Casey Williams) have been working since September to develop their recipe and perfect their preparation techniques, the flavors, as well as the presentation of their food. They will be making Vegetable and Tofu Cilantro Naan with Parsnip Quenelles and Chili Dipping Sauce. The team is coached by Abbey Food Group Chef Joe Gerardi and FACS Teacher Sue Jones. For more information, rules, and pictures of last year’s competition visit  www.jrironchefvt.org/

MIDDLE SCHOOL SEMI-FORMAL
MS Student Council
Old Hollywood Semi Formal 
Dutton Gym
Friday April 4th 
Call for help with decorations, juice, chaperone’s and baked goods!

 ATTENTION ALL GIRLS GRADES 7-12
Spring is just around the corner and so is the softball season.  Please come to OPEN GYM on the following evenings prior to the start of official practices in order to get a chance to throw and catch or hit a few softballs off the machine!  Jeff Gouger will be here to open the gym from 6:00 - 8:00pm on the following Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays:  3/4, 3/6, 3/10, 3/11, 3/13, 3/17, and 3/18. 

L&G 2014 PROM
Date: Saturday April 26th
Time: 7-11pm
Where: Stratton Mountain Club

DIRT DIVAS…A program of Vermont Works for Women
Mountain Bike & Empowerment Program for Middle School Girls

2014:
Ø  Glover                  June 16 – 20
Ø  Morrisville             June 23 – 27
Ø  Hardwick              June 30 – July 4
Ø  Montpelier             July 7 – 11
Ø  Northeast Kingdom    July 13 – 18 (overnight)
Ø  St. Johnsbury         July 28 – Aug 1
Ø  Burlington              August 4 – 8

Monday – Friday 9:00-4:30pm    $260 (overnight $750)  Generous financial aid available.

A one-week summer day camp that helps girls cultivate confidence, courage and leadership through outdoor adventure.  Girls entering 6th, 7th and 8th grades practice mountain bike skills and bicycle mechanics, as well as art, games, swimming and self-defense.  It’s a safe, supportive, girl-centered atmosphere emphasizing leadership, team building and healthy body image – with lots of fun woven in!  A place where girls are encouraged to build strong bodies and minds in the beautiful Vermont outdoors.

NEW THIS YEAR … REGISTER ONLINE AT:
www.vtworksforwomen.org/dirtdivas OR download application

FOR MORE INFO:            dirtdivas@vtworksforwomen.org
                                802/622-0400, ext. 152    
                                800/639-1472

“At Dirt Divas, you can be completely comfortable being yourself.”
-          Participant
ROSIE’S GIRLS…a Program of Vermont Works for Women
Trades Exploration Program for Middle School Girls

2014:
Ø  Essex Junction        June 23 – July 11
Ø  Barre area                     July 21 – August 8

Monday – Friday   8:45 – 5:00  //   Generous financial aid available.

A three-week summer day camp that helps build strong, confident girls through exploration of the skilled trades.  Girls entering 6th, 7th and 8th grades get hands-on instruction in STEM-related activities, carpentry, welding and auto repair, and participate in art, games, swimming and self-defense.  It’s a safe, supportive, girl-centered environment emphasizing leadership, teamwork and healthy body image – with tons of fun woven in!  A place where girls can get their hands dirty, take positive risks and try something new.

NEW THIS YEAR … REGISTER ONLINE AT:
www.rosiesgirls.org OR download application

FOR MORE INFO:            rosiesgirls@vtworksforwomen.org
                                802/622-0400, ext. 157    
                                800/639-1472

“Rosie’s Girls has taught me that I can do anything I set my mind to.”
-          Participant


SIGN UP FOR HEALTH INSURANCE AT LELAND AND GRAY
Amanda Sabo of Southeastern Vermont Community Action (SEVCA) returns to Leland and Gray on two Thursdays, March 13th and 20th, in her role of Health Connect Navigator. She can help enroll families in viable, affordable health insurance, including dental care for students. Ms. Sabo encourages all those interested to request appointments on March 13th, which is just before the March 15th deadline for immediate signup. Afterwards eligibility is available only for extenuating circumstances, until next fall. 

To enroll, students and parents/guardians need only to bring their social security number. Please contact Terry Davison-Berger at 365-7355 or tdavison-berger@lelandandgray.org to schedule an appointment with Ms. Sabo.

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE TRAINING WITH DAN DeWALT
When will it take place? Thursday March 13 and Thursday March 27.
At what time? 2:45pm to 4:15pm
Where will it happen? Leland and Gray. Room location to be determined…
Who is it for? All interested staff and students in both high school and middle school.
Why should I come? Have you found yourself in a conflict with another student or perhaps a teacher or other staff member? Do you wish you can help your friends resolve their differences? Do you want to positively influence the culture of your school? If your answer to any of these questions is yes then you have a reason to get involved with restorative justice practices. By involving yourself you will develop important and marketable listening and mediation skills, enhance your college application, and earn twenty-five dollars ($25.00) if you attend both training sessions. (Stipend offered to students only).
What if I have questions? Speak to Dan DeWalt or Jeremiah Burrow.

CLASS OF 2014
We are collecting pictures for the slideshow traditionally done on class night. If you, your families, neighbors, friends, or former teachers have any pictures of groups of seniors from when they were younger we would love them! Email Megan Altshuler or Jeryl Julian-Cisse any photos you would like to share. Please feel free to send in all those silly shots from birthdays, school trips, and toddler play dates! Don't forget to check the senior page on the L&G website for senior info, www.lelandandgray.org. There is a link on the left side of the home page.

Senior Class Advisors
Megan Altshuler - maltshuler@lelandandgray.org
Jeryl Julian-Cisse - jjulian-cisse@lelandandgray.org

L&G VARIETY SHOW
The L&G Variety Show, hosted by the senior class, will be held Friday, March 14th, in the Dutton Gym from 7 - 9:30 pm.  Come be entertained by you friends, classmates L&G teachers and staff. Enjoy the talent and comedy while supporting the senior class and Project Graduation.  Admission is $3.00, and refreshments will also be sold.

COSTA RICA 2015  
Interested in rainforests, exotic critters, white water rafting, waterfalls, hot springs and volcanoes?  If so, see Mr. Whitman in B14 about joining next February's nine-day trip to Costa Rica.

HEY! You!!
The Late Bus will run on Monday (3/17) and Tuesday (3/18) next week. Wednesday is Winter Activities, so there will not be any HEY! programs or a late bus and Thursday is an early release day so there will not be any HEY! programs or a late bus. For information on the late bus route and dates available for the 2013-2014 school year please visit www.lelandandgray.org

Look for HEY! Help Mon.-Fri. mornings (7:15-7:45 AM) and Mon.-Thurs. afternoons (2:45- 4:15 PM). On Monday, ‘Ukulele meets in the music room, HEY! Help meets in A-11 and Jr. Iron Chef* meets in FACS. On Tuesday, look for Hey! Help, Newspaper, Badminton in the gym, Weight Training, D&D, Jr. Iron Chef, RAMP in A-8 and Robotics in A-12. Wednesday, Ms. Hanson is offering knitting to students, faculty and staff.  Fridaythe GSA will meet with Ms. DeBisschop in B-14. 

*Leland & Gray's own Jr. Iron Chef team heads up to the Champlain Valley Expo in Essesx Junction, VT on March 22 to take part in the 7th annual statewide culinary competition.  Good luck to Mrs. Jones, Chef Joe and the L&G team!

Student Counselors:  Please see Victoria Chertok in her office in the library, with any questions or if you need any help.

Remember to check the HEY! website for updates on programs, and you can always stop by and ask Victoria for information or email her at afterschool@lelandandgray.org.

HUNGER FREE VERMONT
•Dear school nutrition professionals,
•Did you know that 1 in 5 Vermont children live in families that struggle with hunger?  Many families are unaware that receiving the Earned Income Tax Credit makes them eligible for food and nutrition benefits as well…
And this includes free school meals for their kids!
•Families who receive the Vermont Earned Income Tax Credit and have dependent children qualify for 3SquaresVT (formerly food stamps) without having to meet the income test typically required to establish eligibility; and once receiving 3SquaresVT, the children then qualify for free school meals as well.
• 
This tax season, Hunger Free Vermont is spreading the word about this important connection, and we need your help!  We have developed short newsletter articles and a flyer for you to share with families in your community (both attached). Please consider distributing and/or hanging up the attached flyer (we can mail you printed versions) and share the short article (attached) through your newsletters or bulletins.
• 
Thank you for distributing these important materials on the connection between EITC and 3SquaresVT.  For more information about 3SquaresVT or EITC, or for printed materials, contact Faye Conte at fconte@hungerfreevt.org or 802-865-0255.


A NOTE FROM THE SCHOOL NURSE
Flood Safety Awareness Week: Be Prepared Year Round 
Waterbury, Vt. – Gov. Peter Shumlin has signed a proclamation recognizing March 18-22 as Flood Safety Awareness Week in Vermont.  The Vermont Division of Emergency Management, Homeland Security and the National Weather Service are joining the Governor to encourage Vermonters to learn about flood safety and prepare for future floods. 
“Vermonters have learned from some harsh weather over the past couple of years, punctuated by the historic damage wrought by Tropical Storm Irene in 2011, that there are things we can do now to mitigate our risks when flooding occurs” said Vermont Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Director Joe Flynn.
 “Simply charting an evacuation route or learning the distinction between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning can help you make quicker and better decisions when rivers spill their banks,” National Weather Service Burlington Chief Meteorologist Andy Nash added.
 Below is a list of what you can do before, during, and after a flood to help your family escape injury or property losses:
 Know the terms used to describe flooding:
·          
o    Flash Flood – Occurs during heavy rain events and happens very quickly. It ends quickly as well.
o    Flood – Occurs as the result of a more prolonged rain event or lake overflow. It’s more gradual, more predictable, and lasts longer.
o    Flood Watch – Flooding is possible. Watches are issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) 12 to 36 hours in advance of a possible event.
o    Flash Flood Watch – Flash Flooding is possible.  Be prepared to move to higher ground.  A Flash Flood could occur with little or no warning.
o    Flood Warning – Flooding is occurring, or will occur soon.  If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
o    Flash Flood Warning – A flash flood is occurring, or is expected to in a very short time.  Seek higher ground immediately and stay away from streams and creeks.
·  If you ever encounter flood waters NEVER attempt to walk or drive through them (http://www.weather.gov/os/water/tadd/).
·  Monitor Media reports.
·  Ask local officials whether your property is in a flood-prone or high-risk area.  Flood plain maps are available at most town offices or city halls.
·  Know your community’s methods to warn you, if evacuation is necessary.  Listen to local and state Public Safety officials and respond to their directives in a prompt manner.
·  Know your best flood evacuation routes, potential public shelters, and where to find high ground. In a flash flood, you may need to seek high ground on foot quickly.
·  Test your sump pumps.  If possible, have a backup power source.
·  Install ‘check valves’ in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains in your home.
·  Ensure your home is ready. Where possible, minimize damage from basement flooding by elevating utilities and materials that could be damaged by limited basement flooding.
·  Anchor fuel tanks to ensure that they do not wash away; fuel tanks create safety and environmental issues inside or outside the home.
·  Develop a family emergency kit with items like non-perishable food and water, medications, flashlights and batteries, and a battery-powered radio.
·  Make a family communication plan.  Designate an out of state relative as a central point of contact.
·  Learn your community’s emergency plans.
·  When necessary and possible, construct barriers such as levees, berms, and floodwalls to stop floodwater from entering your home or building. Permission to construct such barriers may be required by local building codes. Check local building codes and ordinances for safety requirements.
·  Move children’s toys, patio and lawn furniture, and lawn mowers/snow blowers indoors or to higher ground if flooding is pending.
·  Be prepared to turn off electrical power when there is standing water, fallen power lines, or before you evacuate. Know how to safely turn off gas and water supplies before you evacuate.  Consult an electrician or heating professional before turning utilities back on upon return.
·  You may need to store materials like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and lumber to protect your house from floodwaters and to make quick repairs after a severe storm.
·  Contact your insurance agent or local government to discuss flood insurance coverage. Flood losses are not covered under regular homeowner’s insurance policies. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administers the National Flood Insurance Plan (NFIP) through the Federal Insurance Administration (FIA).  The NFIP makes flood insurance available in communities that adopt and enforce ordinances to reduce flood damage.
·  Contact your local Emergency Management office (usually your city or town office) for more information on mitigation options to further reduce potential flood damage. Your local Emergency Management office may be able to provide additional resources and information regarding ways to reduce potential damage.

The following represent some of the key websites to assist you and your family during times of flooding and type of emergency:
NOTES FROM THE SENIOR CLASS!!!

The senior class has been working all year to fundraiser for the class trip and for Project Gradation. This year’s class has decided to go to the Keene YMCA where they can swim, rock climb, play basketball, and jump in foam pits. On April 3rd and 4th the senior class will be having a dodgeball tournament. Each team consists of six players, can be any combination of staff and student but must be coed. Each team has an entry fee of $30.00, or $5.00 per player and has to have a wavier signed by a parent or guardian. There will also be a by donation bake sale and entry by donation as well. Please help support the senior class, form a team, donate a baked good or come and watch teams compete! See Jaclyn for more information.