ASD Weekly Community Bulletin
News and Events from the Anacortes School District
Superintendent's Message: Lincoln and Thanksgiving
In 1863, Abraham Lincoln made official the celebration of Thanksgiving. At the time, different regions across the nation held their own harvest celebrations from September to December. A 70-year-old magazine editor, Sarah Josepha Hale, petitioned Lincoln to create a national day of reflection and gratitude.
It was the middle of the Civil War. Amidst the strife and suffering, Lincoln saw an opportunity for gratitude and human connection. In his resolution, he wrote:
"It has seemed to me fit and proper that they (the bounty and freedom of our nation) should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a day of Thanksgiving."
Later, under FDR, the fourth Thursday of November was selected for the holiday.
In his resolution, Lincoln reminded the nation to hold dear those who faced suffering in their lives and to strive for "peace, harmony, tranquility and Union." He signed the proclamation six weeks before the Gettysburg Address.
One hundred and fifty-five years later, as we celebrate this day of thanks, I'd like to extend my gratitude to our incredibly dedicated staff for the work you do each day to fulfill the promise of our nation through public education. I'd also like to thank our students and families for the support, care and connection you bring to our schools throughout the year.
As Lincoln suggests, let's give thanks for the bounty we enjoy, while appreciating those serving overseas or facing adverse circumstances here at home. We are at our best when we show gratitude, reach out and take care of each other.
Happy Thanksgiving.
- Dr. Mark Wenzel, Superintendent
Text Messaging - opt in now!
Text messaging - opt in by November 30!
The Anacortes School District will begin using text messaging as an additional communication tool to alert families and staff about closures and emergencies.
You must opt in to begin receiving text messages. Please see the district's website for instructions: http://www.asd103.org/news/what_s_new/text_messaging_for_families_-_opt_in_now
Equity Film Festival - A Community Conversations Series
Please join the Anacortes School District and community partners for a special *free* monthly film series featuring current documentaries and great conversations exploring topics of equity and inclusion. Race, gender, disability, displaced families and other complex issues will be our themes as we share in the immersive experience of film and engage in discussion after each documentary. Bring a group of friends and join the conversation!
This month's film:
On the Edge: Family Homelessness in America - November 29 @ 7:00 pm - AHS Commons
This film follows several families through their journey to stabilize their lives despite significant challenges that leave them vulnerable to setbacks. Our discussion panel includes community leaders from the Anacortes Family Center, Skagit Boys & Girls Club, Skagit Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services, and the Oak Harbor School District's McKinney Vento liaison for homeless students. On the Edge is unrated but most suitable for older teens and adults. See the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9IXftvGExn0
For more information, please contact Keiko McCracken, ASD Community Engagement Coordinator, at (360) 503-1208 or kmccracken@asd103.org.
AHS Community Open House
Thursday, Dec. 6 - 4-5:30 p.m.
1600 20th Street
AHS Commons
If you missed our fall ribbon cutting ceremony, here is another opportunity to see the new high school. Please join us for a short presentation at 4:15, followed by self-guided tours. Students and staff will be available to answer questions.
Thanks to our project partners FORMA Construction and Hutteball & Oremus Architecture!
Questions? Contact the Superintendent's Office (360) 503-1211 or tramsay@asd103.org.
Kaleidoscope Play & Learn Group
NOW IN ANACORTES!!!
Kaleidoscope Play & Learn© groups help families prepare their young children (birth to age 5) for success in school and life. This program, based on scientific evidence, reaches families in their neighborhoods at weekly, facilitated playgroups.
At a Kaleidoscope group, children have fun participating in activities and being around their peers. Family members learn about:
● Activities they can do at home to support children’s learning
● Turning everyday activities- such grocery shopping, cooking and bath time- into early learning opportunities
● Child development from birth to five
● Skills children are expected to have when they start school
● Community programs and services available to help them raise healthy children
Kaleidoscope Play and Learn group will be offered at Fidalgo DanceWorks Annex, located at 909 3rd St., Anacortes. The program is free of charge and will be held on Tuesdays 11:00-12:15, October 16 through December 11, 2018.
For more information, contact Nicole Mortimer: nmortimer@asd103.org
This program is made possible through a partnership between Anacortes School District and Fidalgo DanceWorks and sponsored by Kiwanis Noon Club.Anacortes Parks & Rec Breakfast with Santa
Anacortes Parks and Recreation Department is gearing up for our annual Breakfast With Santa event - Saturday, Dec. 1st
Tickets are on sale www.anacorteswa.gov or call APRD office at 360-293-1918. The following live performances will take place during the event:
8:30-9am Fidalgo Dance Works
9am-9:30am Fidalgo School Choir
9:30-10am- AHS Choir
10am-10:30am- Mt. Erie Mustang Choir
10:30-11am- Anacortes Harmonaires
Tickets will sell out... so plan ahead.
Anacortes Schools Foundation Celebrate the Season Events - Dec 1, 8-9
Kick off the holidays and support Anacortes students! Join the Anacortes Schools Foundation at the Port Event Center for “Celebrate the Season 2018” For more information visit www.asfkids.org/celebrate or to volunteer sign up at www.asfkids.org/signup
ASF Celebrate the Season Marketplace
Anacortes Boys Basketball 1st- 6th grade registration is now open until December 14th. Sign up today at https://anacortesparksandrecreation.sportsiteslabs.com/player#Root15e5fe1a9-704a-eda9-b4b3-c1a60cbe6fb30 or call APRD office at 360-293-1918.
FYI- CONSTRUCTION AT THE HIGH SCHOOL WILL PUT SOME CONSTRAINTS ON GYM SPACE FOR THE 2019 SEASON. Because of this, each team will only practice once per week and games will be held on Saturdays. 1-hour practices will be scheduled between 4:00 and 6:00 pm on weekdays. Some weekday games may be scheduled as well. Teams are formed by the Parks and Recreation staff. Volunteer coaches are needed, especially coaches who can coach during the weekday times of 4-6 pm.
Anacortes Cinemas & Island View PTA invite you to two special movie screenings:
Ralph Breaks the Internet - November 24th at 10:00 am
For just $10 you will get to see the movie and enjoy a small popcorn and soda while supporting Island View PTA!
Tickets must be pre-purchased. Only 150 tickets available for each show, so get yours today!
https://www.islandviewpta.org/movie
Anacortes Community Theater Classes
Anacortes Food to Go - This is a weekend backpack food program for Anacortes students. If you are in need, please contact Food to Go - (360) 708-3037 or ftgAnacortes@gmail.com
BOWMAN BAY HOLIDAY 2018
Please join us as we celebrate our 4th annual holiday fundraiser at Deception Pass State Park Saturday, December 15th, 2018 at Bowman Bay. Festivities run from 4-8pm. There will be a $5 suggested per car donation. Enjoy hot chocolate, delicious baked goods, see Park cabins lit up, pictures with Santa, Toys for Tots drop off location, write holiday letters to service men and women, and feel warmed by the fire. There will be crafts for the kids and more! Remember to wear warm clothes, rain boots, and to bring a flashlight! This family-friendly event supports and promotes the Deception Pass Park Foundation’s mission of resource protection through education. All money raised goes to the direct benefit and enhancement of educational programs in the Park. Although a fundraiser, the Foundation’s main goals are to connect with visitors in a fun and festive way during the off season, and build stronger relationships with the community and other organizations. http://www.deceptionpassfoundation.org/news/bbh/
Calling all kids! Join Melissa Hawkins at Studio 1010 for a week long after school series of fun! Give your child the opportunity to unwind after a long day of school as we take part in a crafternoon of yoga and art! This special series will help children to tap into their own inner creativity as they create special holiday gifts and cards. We will also play games and explore yoga poses that emphasize mindfulness and gratitude during the holiday season. Side effects may include spontaneous joy, a grateful heart, enhanced focus, confidence, strength and flexibility.
Grab your mat and come play!
Grades K-3
December 10th-14th; 3:45-5:15
$85/includes supplies!
Scholarships available contact hawkinsyoga@gmail.com
*5 Student min, 12 student max
Register @ studio1010.net
Chess Club - After School at Mt Erie
Chess Club - After School at Fidalgo
Dogs on Call - Volunteer Opportunity - We need YOU and YOUR PET to help kids in need with Dogs on Call! If you are interested, click on the flyer!
Fidalgo DanceWorks - STARS - Dance for Youth and Teens with Special Needs
Fidalgo DanceWorks Enrolling for the Fall - FDW is currently accepting new students of dance. Classes range from ballet, jazz, modern, tap and hip hop. There is something for everyone. Check out the fall schedule at fidalgodanceworks.org and call the office to enroll. 360-299-8447.
FIRST Robotics 2018-19 Sign Ups: Anacortes FIRST Robotics is now accepting advance signups for 2018-2019 FLLJr/FLL team information for elementary and middle school teams. FIRST is celebrating its 30th anniversary and the 50th anniversary of the first manned mission to the moon with space-themed challenges at all levels. Teams will be starting at the beginning of the school year. Don’t let your child miss out; sign up in advance for team registration information. No obligation or commitment. Send e-mail to Info@AnacortesRobotics.org with a subject of “Program Announcements” and we will add you to the mailing list.
FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics Team Sign Up
Foster Care Family Recruitment
Healthy Students Healthy Communities Newsletter
IRG Ski Conditioning Class - Nov 27 - Free class to interested skiers, age 10 & up. Please RSVP to events@irgpt.com. Space is limited.
Love & Logic Parenting Class - Sept 26-Dec 12
Lions Club Annual Christmas Parade - Dec 8
Peterson Conservatory of Music & Arts - Fall Classes
Pizza and Pages - Teen book club - Nov 27
Secret Harbor - Foster Parent Info
Skagit Parent to Parent Workshops - IEPs
Exciting News! Skagit Valley College Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) will have Full Day (6 ½ hour) classes, 4 days a week next school year 2018-2019. This is a free preschool for 3-5 year olds. Breakfast, lunch, and snack provided. Parent Activities and Educational opportunities. For more information or enrollment, call 360-679-5348.
Here is a copy of our application: https://skagit-my.sharepoint.com/…/EfXQIaAr4CxHnUXCkhN314YB…
Skagit Financial People Project Volunteer Educator Workshop
Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund Nov 12 - Dec 7
Anacortes School District
Email: anacortessd@asd103.org
Website: www.asd103.org
Location: 2200 M Avenue, Anacortes, WA, USA
Phone: 360-503-1200
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnacortesSchoolDistrict/
Twitter: @AnacortesSchool