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Lowell School
Lowell Log
May 2015
Principal's Message by Sam Platis, Lowell Principal
Dear Lowell Families,
Thank you for your continued support, commitment and dedication to making our school a model for providing a
quality education to every student, every day. It really is difficult to believe that this is nearly the last Lowell Log
of the 2014-2015 school year! Time really does pass so quickly, and as we move the summer months, while the
year is far from over, and there is still much work to be done, at times I find myself in “reflection mode”. With so
much to look back on -- countless memories; the hard work of our teachers, families and students; working
together to bring fun and educational enrichment opportunities to our 759 students – we are indeed blessed and
fortunate to be a part of the Lowell community.
First, I would be remiss if I did not thank all of our teachers and staff for yet another stellar year. So much goes
into maintaining and moving all of our students towards proficiency and beyond – academically, socially and
behaviorally. While many of these efforts by our staff are visible, many are not readily apparent to everyone
(which speaks to the sense of humility that is pervasive at our school). From “big things”, such as engaging in
on-going professional development to help ensure that each of our students benefit from a world class
education, to the smaller – yet equally important things – such as volunteering time after school to provide
additional support or enrichment, our teachers and staff are without a doubt the best of the best! Nothing beats
the rare combination of high expectations, coupled with a warm, nurturing environment and a commitment to
continuous improvement – our staff embodies these qualities and so many more. I know that everyone shares
my strong belief that an integral part of this collaborative effort includes everyone on our campus, including
office staff, teachers, custodians, classified staff and others who work behind the scenes.
Our students are without a doubt the product of families who work tirelessly to actively support their children’s
education. It is commonplace at Lowell to see over 860 active PTA members, and over 700 volunteers (VIPS)
providing their time, talents and treasure to benefit not just their own child, but all of our Lowell sea stars. I am
amazed and, quite frankly, am deeply and forever grateful for the “embarrassment of riches” (as the age-old
saying goes) that our school enjoys. Of course, these “riches” take many forms -- families reaching out to those
who are in need (including students and programs at other schools in Long Beach); VIPS supporting our
teachers with small group instruction; a PTA Board, Association and committees that not only pull off fun events
for families, but also ensure that their knowledge and processes are systematically passed forward to incoming
or newly participating families; people constantly asking, “how can we help?”, “what does your school need?”,
and “tell me when and where to be there, and we’ll make it happen (whatever the event or occasion); and finally,
the humble, gracious way in which we all pull together to make our school a better place. Just as important as
the tremendously generous monetary donations that allow us to continue our enrichment programs – both
academic and non-academic in nature – everyone’s dedication inspires, invigorates and sustains our efforts as
one school, one family and one community of learners.
Thank you, again, everyone, for coming together to add to the already rich and distinguished Lowell legacy. Our
school is indeed a better place precisely because of not only our willingness to work together to benefit all of our
students, but because our teachers, families, and staff continue to give of themselves selflessly to benefit all of
our students.
With Deep Gratitude and Appreciation,
Sam Platis
Principal, Lowell Elementary School
PTA President’s Message by Denise Mester, PTA President
Lowell … an a-MAY-zing school
As we greet the month of May, spring is in full bloom! Warmer Southern California days remind us that the carefree
days of summer are just around the corner. We are busily making plans for summer camps for the kids, vacation, and
the next school year … but first, let us take a few moments this month to enjoy the fruits of our hard work throughout
this school year, and to appreciate what a special – and aMAYzing – place Lowell is.
This month is marked by a sense of excitement and accomplishment at Lowell. Currently, many of our students are
demonstrating their knowledge and their achievements within the new Common Core landscape as they participate in
state Smarter Balance testing. During Open House on Thursday, May 28, families can enjoy seeing all that the
children have accomplished this school year. Be there to admire your students’ projects, hard work, and cherished
memories … and celebrate the fact that a lot of hard work and perseverance (by the students and their teachers!) that
made them all possible.
We have much to celebrate as our year comes to a close. Once again this year, thanks to the incredible generosity of
our families, friends, and supporters, our PTA has again surpassed its annual fundraising goals, which allows us to
continue providing cherished programs and events to Lowell’s students and to responsibly consider how best to utilize
our funds for future benefit. Our PTA membership has grown yet again – so much so, that Lowell was named the
rd
winner of an annual membership challenge within the 33 District PTA. Yet again, the number of volunteer hours
spent by our dedicated parents and families has increased, and the tremendous events and programs that make our
school so special get better and better. I salute all of you who have played a part in making that happen: teachers,
coachies, administrators, support staff, room parents, volunteers, families, and friends. Tremendous things happen at
Lowell thanks to a LOT of hard work and dedication by not only our children but also by the team of people who
surround them. In a word … simply aMAYzing.
This month provides more opportunities to enjoy all that makes Lowell so incredible: our Meet the Masters program
will end another successful year with an introduction to artist Paul Gauguin, with assembly and training on May 11; our
after-school performers with TKTC will entertain us with a fantastic performance of “Annie” on May 7-9. In addition to
Open House on May 28, don’t forget Career Day on May 29, which will give our students a glimpse into what careers
may be ahead of them in the future. Join us on May 19 for a special PTA meeting to review the eligible Budget
Amendment Proposals that will be presented to the association for a vote at our final meeting on June 2. Be a part of
the process as we determine as an organization how best to spend $80,000 in surplus funds to better the Lowell
experience. After a kick-off of the summer with a long Memorial Day weekend, what better way to embrace summer
fun than to spend a day at Lowell’s Carnival on May 30 – “Lego My Lowell.” Thank you once again for doing your part
to help create a joyful, successful, and positive learning environment for our kids at Lowell. Have an aMAYzing month!
Warmly,
Denise Mester
Lowell PTA President
pres@lowellpta.com
May
11
11
12
12
13
15
19
20
22
25
28
29
30
May 2015 June
MTM Assembly,
2:25-3:10
MTM Training, 3:30-4:30
Cabinet Meeting
Executive Board Mtg
Dining for DollarsDomenico’s
Dirtbags Night
PTA Info Mtg Re Proposals
(6:30 Auditorium)
Teacher Luncheon
U.S.A. Shirt Day
Memorial Day
Open House
Career Day
Carnival
Lowell Log 1-5
2
3
17
17
Teacher Appreciation Week
Final PTA Assn. Meeting
(6:30 Auditorium)
Dining For Dollars- Chipotle
th
5 Grade Promotion
Last Day of School
2 Lowell Kids’ Club Spring
Boutique
Thursday, May 7th at 2:30 p.m .
Unique, custom, and handmade gifts for Mother's Day,
graduation, teachers, and yourself. Join us in the
cafeteria from 2:30-5:30pm for a fun shopping expreince.
Boutique coordinators are Rosann from Kids' Club and
Coachie Sandi.
START STOCKING UP FOR SUMMER!! -­‐Last 2 Gift Card orders for the school year – Gift Card Order Dates 5/14 & 5/28 Gas Cards Lowes Home Depot Hyatt Hotels Choice Hotels REI AMC Disney CPK Subway AND……………….100’S MORE Let’s n ot forget Teacher Appreciation. Order on line at: http:lowellpta.corecommerce.com/giftcards/ 5th Grade Activities Update
5th Grade Activities MeetingWed. May 20th 9:05 am
Time to put the final touches on our last few activities. Join
th
th
us for the 5 Grade Activities Meeting Wed. May 20 at 9:05
at 314 Arcadia.
th
4 Grade Parents: Please join us for our meeting on May
20 as well, to find out what’s in store for next year! Your
help is also needed with this year’s Promotion.
5th Grade Special Activities:
Tuesday, June 16 9:15am- Awards Assembly (Auditorium)
Tuesday, June 16 11:30am-2pm- Play Day / Lunch at Park
Wednesday, June 17 11:30am – Promotion Ceremony
May 2015 Lowell Log 3 LEGO MY LOWELL CARNIVAL 2015
Saturday, May 30 from 10:30 am – 3:30 pm
Please join us for Lowell’s Biggest Family Event! Inflatable rides, your favorite carnival food,
game booths, music by local entertainers, crazy crafts, the best prize booth ever, and friends
will be waiting for you at the 2015 Lego My Lowell Carnival on Saturday, May 30th. Spend the
day indulging in all your favorite Carnival activities! Carnival t-shirt and ticket order forms are
below, as is important information you need to help us make this year’s Carnival another big
success! Be sure to get your tickets to participate in this year’s teacher box drawings.
We are excited to announce that this year, we will be debuting four new carnival games and
two new crafts…as well as an “Under Construction” Lego build area!
Timeline
May
8
Room Rep meeting for all carnival booth and auction basket helpers – 9 a.m. Cafeteria
14
Carnival planning meeting at Valeria’s house, 7pm
18-22 Carnival basket items to arrive in classrooms
22
Carnival presale ticket and wristband orders due
22
Classroom booth volunteer lists due to Cameron Hernandez via carnival folder in
copy/work room
22
Carnival classroom auction basket helper to compile and turn in list of basket
components with basket name and room number along with estimated value to
Cameron Hernandez cchernand@gmail.com
22
Booth sponsorships due. Checks payable to Lowell PTA
26
Carnival t-shirt, presale ticket, and wristband distribution to classrooms
28
Final carnival planning meeting at Valeria’s house, 7pm
29
Carnival classroom auction baskets due in cafeteria (not classroom) wrapped and
ready to go between 2:30-3:00. Please be on time!
30
Lego my Lowell Carnival 2015! Event runs from 10:30 – 3:30!
For more information, or to get additional details for attending carnival meetings, please
contact the Carnival chairs at carnival@lowellpta.com.
May 2015 Lowell Log 4 CARNIVAL DONATIONS, WISH LIST AND HELP NEEDED
Carnival classroom drink donations
We are asking each classroom to contribute drinks that we will sell at the carnival. This is completely voluntary, but it
will be a big help! Drink donations can be brought to the cafeteria from May 26-29.
Kindergarten:
st
1 grade:
nd
2 grade:
rd
3 grade:
th
4 grade:
th
5 grade:
juice pouches
packs of 12 oz. bottled water or juice pouches
packs of 12 oz. bottled water
6 packs of cans of Sprite or 7 Up
6 packs of cans of Coke or Diet Coke, or Pepsi or Diet Pepsi
6 packs of cans of orange Fanta or grape Fanta
Carnival Wish List
th
(Please drop items by the auditorium on Friday, May 29 after 5 pm. Contact Linda Allgood,
allgoodrealestate@yahoo.com if you can donate any of the items so we know what we need to pick up!)
-12 market umbrellas
-12 EZ Ups
-12 med or lg sponges
-12 x-large sponges
-12 hand towels
-50 paper towel rolls
-6 extension cords
-3 cash boxes
-Dixie Cups
-700 lollipops
-10-12 bottles of water bubbles & toys
-Large pkg bubble gum
-8 rolls of duct tape
-8 rolls wide blue painters tape
-8 rolls masking tape
Additional auctions items wanted: Do you have something you would like to donate to the auction? Tickets to a
sporting event, sporting equipment, theme park tickets, concert tickets or anything else kid- or family- activity related?
th
Please contact Cameron Hernandez at cchernand@gmail.com by May 18 if you have a donation. Please note:
because we cancelled this year’s spring fundraiser, this is an excellent opportunity to offer any donations you may
have considered contributing. Thank you donors!
Older siblings needed for carnival day volunteer jobs!!! We are looking for older siblings to volunteer and help
out the day of the carnival. Please contact either Emily Taylor emilytaylor9@gmail.com or Ruth Chao
rkchao1262@gmail.com if you have any helpers in mind.
2015 Carnival T-shirt Order Form
Please return this order form and payment by Friday, May 8 to your child’s teacher in an envelope clearly marked
“Carnival T-shirts”. Cash or checks (payable to Lowell PTA) accepted. A very limited quantity will be available on the
day of Carnival so get your pre-orders in on-time! **Teachers – please place all T-shirt orders in the PTA Drop Box.
Student Name:
____________________________________________________________________
Phone Number:
____________________________________________________________________
Teacher Name:
_______________________________________________
Room #: ___________
CHILD T-SHIRT ORDER and Style Information - PLEASE INDICATE QUANTITY PER SIZE Unisex Tee - Navy or White (Gildan brand) / Girl’s cap sleeve cut - White (American Apparel brand)
UNISEX (Navy): S______ M_______ L_______ XL_________($13)
(logo will be multi color)
UNISEX (White): S______ M_______ L_______ XL_________($13)
GIRLS (White):
S(8)____ M(10)____ L(12)____ XL(Wsm)____($14)
Adult’s T-SHIRT ORDER - INDICATE QUANTITY PER SIZE White Tee (men and women). - $17 each
UNISEX Adult:
S ______ M _______ L ______ XL _______
XXL____ XXXL____ (these larger sizes are $20)
TOTAL amount enclosed: ______________________
Questions? Please contact Jennifer Pickard at 562-233-3734 or jen1171@verizon.net
Approved by Principal Sam Platis and PTA President Denise Mester
May 2015 Lowell Log 5 CARNIVAL BOOTH & RIDE SPONSORSHIPS
Sponsorship opportunities are available for individuals, families, or groups. This is a great way to help support
the carnival! There are fun rides, booths and games that you can choose to sponsor - each classroom will be
assigned to staff a specific game, booth, or ride during the carnival. Your sponsorship can help support your
child's class booth, and your sponsor name will appear on that game/booth/ride on the day of the carnival. Four
levels of sponsorships are available this year, all with a fun Lego theme: Unikitty ($25); Wildstyle ($50);
Emmet ($100); and Vitruvius ($500). Remember that several families can choose to sponsor as a group!
Sponsorship Form
Child’s name:_____________________________________
Child’s teacher/room #:_____________________________________________
___ Yes, I am interested in sponsoring a game/booth/ride
Sponsorship Level: ____ Unikitty ($25) _____ Wildstyle ($50)
____ Emmet ($100) _____ Vitruvius ($500)
Name of sponsor(s) _____________________________
Contact info:_____________________________
Please send sponsorship form and payment (checks payable to Lowell PTA) to the attention of Valeria
Ruggieri via an envelope to your child's classroom, or drop the completed form and payment in the PTA
Lockbox in the Lowell workroom. Contact Jo Stephanie Francisco at jostephanief@yahoo.com for more
information.
2015 Carnival Ticket Order Form
Please return this order form and payment Friday, May 22nd to your child’s teacher in an envelope
clearly marked Carnival “Tickets”. Cash or checks (payable to Lowell PTA) accepted.
Student Name:
Phone Number:
Teacher Name:
Rm #:
Set(s) of 10 tickets at $7.50
Set(s) of 100 tickets at $75.00
Set(s) of 20 tickets at $15.00
Wristband(s) at $13.00 each (for
rides only)
Set(s) of 50 tickets at $37.50.
Total=
Questions? Please contact Jen Paz at 562-234-0464 or jenpaz@verizon.net
May 2015 Lowell Log 6 Meet the Masters
“Art is either plagiarism or revolution...” - Paul Gauguin
As our MTM journey wraps up for the year, our last artist will be French Artist Eugène
Henri Paul Gauguin (7 June 1848 – 8 May 1903) who was born in Paris, France and
was a leading Post-Impressionist painter. Known for his bold experimentation with
coloring, he paved the way to Primitivism and the return to the pastoral.
GauguiGauguin had been interested in art since his childhood
and in his free time, he began painting. He visited galleries
frequently and purchased work by emerging artists with whatever
money he made. He formed a friendship with artist Camille
Pissarro, who introduced him to various other artists and as he progressed in his art, he showed
paintings in Impressionist exhibitions held in 1881 and 1882. It was during this time that over two
summer vacations, he painted with Pissarro and occasionally with Paul Cézanne.
In The Yellow Christ (1889), often cited as a quintessential Cloisonnist
work, the image was reduced to areas of pure color separated by
heavy black outlines. In such works Gauguin paid little attention to classical perspective and
boldly eliminated subtle gradations of color, thereby dispensing with the two most
characteristic principles of post-Renaissance painting. His painting later evolved towards
Synthetism in which neither form nor color predominates but each has an equal role.
In 1891, Gauguin, frustrated by lack of recognition at home and financially destitute, sailed to
the tropics to escape European civilization and "everything that is artificial and conventional.”
He grew disappointed with Impressionism and felt that traditional European painting had
become too imitative and lacked symbolic depth. By contrast, the art of Africa and Asia
seemed to him full of mystic symbolism and vigor.
Gauguin like Pablo Picasso in the early days of the 20th century was inspired and motivated by the raw power and
simplicity of the so-called Primitive art of those foreign cultures that interested him. Primitivism was an art movement
of painting and sculpture characterized by exaggerated body proportions, animal totems, geometric designs and stark
contrasts. The first artist to systematically use these effects and achieve broad public success was Paul Gauguin. The
European cultural elite discovering the art of Africa, Micronesia, and Native Americans for the first time were
fascinated, intrigued and educated by the newness, wildness and the stark power embodied in the art of those
faraway places.
In 1903, as a result of a problem he had with the church and the government, Gauguin was
sentenced to three months in prison, and charged a fine. At the time he was being supported
by an art dealer named Ambroise Vollard. Gauguin died of syphilis before he could begin his
prison sentence. His body had been weakened by alcohol and a dissipated life. He was 54
years old.
We are excited to present Paul Gauguin’s work for the kids.
****SAVE THE DATE***
Training will be held on Monday, May 11, from 2:25-3:10p.m.2:25-3:10 p.m. for the assembly, followed by the
art lesson at 3:30 in the school library.
Please note that Lowell students may quietly wait in the library while volunteers receive instruction; non-students may not
attend per school guidelines.
In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact Andrea Miller at
andreamiller4@verizon.net or 562.810.4487
May 2015 Lowell Log 7 Dining For Dollars
This month's featured restaurant is Domenico's. Our Dining for Dollars event is on Wednesday, May 13
11:30 am - 10 pm. Take a break from the kitchen and enjoy a delicious meal at Domenico's. Too busy to
eat at the restaurant? Order take-out and enjoy at home. They will donate 25% of the proceeds of food
purchased by Lowell families and friends. You dine, they donate. It's the easiest way to give to
Lowell. Please bring a copy of the flyer - either paper or electronic.
ANNOUNCING
Lowell PTA
Fundraiser
Help us raise money while enjoying your favorite pizza, pasta and salad!
Domenico's has been a Belmont Shore institution for 60 years.
Domenico's will donate 25% of the total sales generated
from our group to Lowell PTA.
Dine-In or Take-Out.
Wednesday May 13th, 2015
11:30 AM to 10 PM
You must bring this flyer with you
to the fundraiser to qualify for the 25% donation from
Domenico's. Flyers must be distributed prior to the fundraiser
event. Flyers may not be passed out inside or outside
Domenico's during the fundraiser.
DOMENICO'S
Since 1954
5339 E. Second Street - Belmont Shore
Long Beach, CA 90803
(562) 439-0261
Approved by SP/DM
May 2015 Lowell Log 8 Lowell Dirtbags Night – Friday, May 15 th 6:00pm
May 2015 Lowell Log 9 BOOK FAIR WRAP UP
Our Spring Book Fair was a BIG success, and it wouldn't have been without the integral help of so many of
our Lowell parents...and coachies! An enormous thank you to Coachie Sandie – as well as Coachie H, who
returned for a few days just to pitch in - for helping guide the way.
A big thank you to our classroom volunteers and our wonderful Book Fair Committee: Michelle Dumars, Liz
Nugent, Laura Walker, Christine Welch, Kelly Darling, Julie Jang, Tiam Jang, Julee Stover, Athena Deliva,
and Jackie Kuhl. I could not have pulled off this fabulous Book Fair without the help of these wonderful
volunteers. I would also like to thank Dana Hughes who has worked very hard during this Book Fair getting
ready to take over as next year’s Book Fair Chairperson. Dana who will be joined by Jim Matthis as her co
chairperson, is fantastic and will do a super job leading us through next year's Book Fair.
WAY TO GO LOWELL SEA STARS!!!
I truly appreciate all of the help in making this another successful Book Fair
for our children!
Thank you
Tracy Kollin
bookfair@lowellpta.com
Teacher Appreciation Week
Monday June 1st – Friday, June 5th
ap·pre·ci·a·tion
Noun
1. The recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something.
2. Gratitude for something.
Please check with your Classroom Representatives for details on what
each class will be doing for their teachers and the other great staff at
Lowell during Teacher Appreciation Week. Remember that there are
many additional teachers who impact our children, and they all need to
be appreciated. With that in mind, in addition to classroom activities,
there will be a collection box in the office from May 5th - May 28th, for
the support teachers and staff. All money that is collected will go
towards individual gifts for each of them. A huge Thank You to all the
devoted staff at Lowell who take care of our children and help them to
grow into productive and caring citizens!
Cameron Hernandez
Room Rep Chair
roomrep@lowellpta.com
May 2015 Lowell Log 10 Lowell Chess Tournament Application Saturday, May 16 (9:00 AM – 3:30 PM approximately) Participants should plan to arrive at Lowell at around 8:30 AM, (not before), both for check-­‐in and so that they may hear the rules and procedures for the tournament. Check-­‐in finishes at 8:45 AM; those students not signed-­‐in by that time will be dropped from the tournament. The first game will begin promptly at 9:00 AM. Students signing up to participate in the tournament are expected to play in all four games: no one may leave and only play a partial tournament. The tournament will have three sections: Section 1 (for beginners, such as Group A members -­‐ need to know all piece moves), Section 2 (for intermediate players, such as Group B members -­‐ know all piece moves and should be able to write moves), and Section 3 (for advanced players, such as Chess Team members -­‐ this group is required to write moves). Talk to your child about the section in which he or she would feel the most comfortable playing. Each section will have a champion, but the overall champion will come from Section 3. Cost: Chess Club members-­‐ DO NOT PAY – tournament is part of dues Non-­‐members $5 Check-­‐in: 8:30 AM (Please do not arrive before this time.) Rules and Procedures: 8:45 AM First Game: 9:00 AM Second Game: 10:15 AM (approx.) Designated Lunch break: 11:15 -­‐ 12:15 PM Third Game: 12:15 PM Fourth Game: 1:30 PM (approx.) Awards: 2:45 -­‐ 3:00 PM *** On the day of the tournament no student may simply be dropped off at Lowell. While parents may make arrangements to share supervision time with other parents, at no time during the tournament should a student be at Lowell without some designated adult being responsible and physically present at Lowell for that student. Parents are responsible for the supervision and safety of their own children during the course of the tournament. All applications must be turned in to Mr. B., in Room 31 (not the office) on or before Friday, May 8th. Space is limited to 40 players. Mr. B. Kindergarten Orientation 2015-2016
WE NEED YOUR HELP!!! We are putting together a new awesome video for our
new Kindergarten families that will be entering Lowell in September 2015. SO…. we
are asking if you have any photos from PTA events, fieldtrips, school activities, Joga thon, etc., please share them with us. Please submit your photos via email to
lynn@silktricky.com
We also are recruiting new committee members for the Kindergarten Orientation in
September. It's a super easy and fun committee - you get to welcome new families, give them a
school tour and show them just how great Lowell is!!! If you are interested in helping with this fun
committee, please email Cammie Cassiano at ccassiano@verizon.net
May 2015 Lowell Log 11 The Lowell Green Team
Growing, Conserving, and Learning-by-Doing
The world is thirsty because it is hungry....after all water is food. Firmly into the 4th year of
California's punishing drought, we need to consider our food choices as a way to reduce water
use. You might be surprised at how much water it takes to bring that hamburger to your plate!
One hamburger requires 2,400 liters of water from farm to table, 1 apple takes 70 liters and a cup
of coffee requires 35 liters. In your effort to save water,
please think about the food on your plate. By eating
lower on the food chain - choosing foods that grow on
plants and trees - and preventing food waste, your watersensible diet could save our state more water than you
think!
Please contact us with any thoughts or comments
Green Team Co-Chairs:
Karen Taylor & Amy Royle
garden@lowellpta.com
Lowell Career Day
May 29, 2015
Dear Parents,
Lowell will be having its annual Career Day on Friday, May 29th, 2015.
If you are interested in speaking in one of our classrooms on Career Day, please let Counselor
Monica Frank know by completing the following form. Presentations will be made in the classrooms.
Presenters will be placed in classrooms based on the topic and grade level that is most appropriate.
It is possible that you will NOT be in your child’s classroom during Career Day, but you can make
arrangements with the teacher to present at another time. The purpose of Career Day is to expose
students to careers about which they may not be aware, and it gives many students the opportunity
to think about their future careers.
If interested in helping, please complete the form below and return it to the office. If you have any
questions please contact our counselor Mrs.Frank at 433-6757, or e-mail her at
mfrank@lbschools.net.
(Return to Mrs. Frank in the office)
Parent Name________________________________________________________
Student Name _________________________Teacher_______________________
Address___________________________________________________________
Phone ____________________________________________________________
Occupation_________________________________________________________
Brief Description of Occupation__________________________________________
May 2015 Lowell Log 12 PTA BUDGET UPDATE … PUTTING OUR DOLLARS TO WORK!
As we have explained for a few months now, thanks to the generosity of Lowell’s families, friends, and
supporters through our Membership Fundraising Campaign and Jog-A-Thon, as well as unspent monies
from prior years’ budgets, we have approximately $80,000 in surplus funds that are not currently
allocated to existing budget items and must be spent this year.
Our PTA continues to fund and sustain many programs and events at Lowell, but there is always so much
more we can do. Over the next few months, the PTA’s Executive Board – with the input from our
administrators and staff, our Technology Use Committee, the school-site Cabinet, and our PTA members –
will consider any proposals for how we ought to utilize our surplus funds. PTA members: YOUR INPUT
MATTERS!
Any PTA member who wishes to present ideas and suggestions for how to utilize our $80,000 in surplus
funds – or to allocate remaining funds – is welcome to present a proposal for PTA’s consideration at our last
meeting of the year, which is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2, 2015. Proposals should be presented in the
form of a Budget Amendment form (available on our PTA website at http://www.lowellpta.com/presidentmsg/pta-financial-info) by including as much detail and information as possible. Before any proposal may
be considered by the PTA members at the June 2 meeting, it must preliminarily be presented to the
PTA Executive Board; also, anything affecting Lowell during school hours must also be presented
to Cabinet. Here are the final available dates for such presentations:
•
Cabinet Meetings – May 12 at 8 a.m. (contact Principal Sam Platis no later than 5 days prior to be
put on the agenda)
•
PTA Executive Board meeting – May 12 at 6:30 p.m. (contact PTA President Denise Mester no
later than 5 days prior to be put on the agenda)
•
NEW: Special PTA Information Session to provide overview of and Q&A session about the various
eligible budget amendment proposals that will be presented to the Association for a vote during the
June 2 PTA meeting. Holding this information session will allow us to progress to a vote more
quickly on June 2.
•
PTA Association Meeting – Tuesday, June 2, 6:30 p.m. (contact PTA President Denise Mester by
Friday, May 15 to be put on the agenda)
At our June 2 meeting, the PTA Executive Board will briefly review the eligible proposals and provide input
from the Board, staff and administration, and Cabinet as applicable, and the Association members in
attendance will vote on how to spend our funds. If you have any questions about presenting a budget
proposal, or if you need additional information, please e-mail PTA President Denise Mester at
pres@lowellpta.com.
The most current version of our PTA budget is posted on the bulletin board of our PTA workroom should
any member wish to review it. Thank you to our families, friends, and supporters who have continued to
give so generously to make Lowell the special place it is.
REMINDER: IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE ABLE TO VOTE ON ANY BUDGET AMENDMENT
PROPOSAL(S), YOU MUST HAVE BEEN A PTA MEMBER FOR AT LEAST 30 DAYS PRIOR
TO THE VOTE. If you are currently not a member and would like to have a voice at the
June 2nd meeting, please join our PTA ASAP. Membership envelopes can be found in the
workroom - fill one out, include your membership fee (at least $10 – checks payable to
Lowell PTA), and drop it in the PTA lock box. If you have any questions regarding
becoming a PTA member please email Sabine Cain or Danielle Van Divort at
membership@lowellpta.com.
May 2015 Lowell Log 13 After School Enrichment
The following programs are offered by organizations that are permitted to use Lowell's facilities.
The PTA does not sponsor or fund these events. The programs are open to all Lowell students. For questions
or suggestions about after-school enrichment programs, or if you would like information about PTA
scholarships available for participating in the programs, please contact After School Enrichment chair Mai Pare
at afterschool@lowellpta.com.
For Kids. By Kids.
www.TKTCBUZZ.com
TKTC & LOWELL BAYSIDE THEATRE
PRESENTS THE SPRING MUSICAL
EXTRAVAGANZA…
What: This Spring Season, witness The Kids Theatre Company &
Bayside Theatre’s original spin on the timeless, Broadway classic,
“Annie!’ The rags to riches story of a loveable orphan who gets
rescued, kidnapped, and rescued again! With classic Broadway
tunes, and TKTC’s own rockin’ twist, this Spring Spectacular is
one you won’t wanna miss! There are all sorts of roles from
orphans, to gangsters, to New York City businessmen! This show
is perfect for kids of all ages!!
Where: The Lowell Bayside Theatre!!
The Shows: “ANNIE!” SHOWS!
Thursday, May 7th @ 6:00pm (SUNDAY CAST)
Friday, May 8th @ 3:45pm (FRIDAY CAST)
Friday, May 8th @ 7:00pm (FRIDAY CAST)
Saturday, May 9th @ 11:00am (SUNDAY CAST)
Saturday, May 9th @ 2:00pm (SATURDAY CAST)
Saturday, May 9th @ 7:00pm (SATURDAY CAST)
*Any Questions? Email us @ TKTCBUZZ@gmail.com!
May 2015 Lowell Log 14 Summer Camp Fair Vendor Information
Thank you to the participants in
this year’s Summer Camp Fair!
For more information, please
reach out to our Camp Fair
participants listed here.
Summer Camp Fair 2015 Summer’s Fun Started at the Fair
May 2015 CAMP CONTACT Acting Out Theatre Camp Aquarium of the Pacific Erin Young actingoutcamp
@yahoo.com Erin English EEnglish@LBA
OP.ORG Art Smart Studio Carola Whitlow Artexchange Summer Art Experience Burgess Cotillion Sovachan Sorn artsmartstudiof
orkids@verizon.
net arthappens@ar
texchangelb.org Kristie Burgess burgesscotillion
@aol.com Camp komaroff Natalie Chernik nchernik@alpe
rtjcc.org Crazzy’s Wasewagon Camp and Retreat En Pointe Craig Johnson crazzycraig@ea
rthlink.net Celinda Frey enpointeinc@g
mail.com Fine Arts and Fashion Portfolio Camp Fits All Sports Vicky Ojerio inspyrarts@gm
ail.com Tommy Dube volitude@gmail
.com Los Altos Family YMCA Claire Martin Claire.Martin@l
bymca.org Makersville / Club 10 Patricia Tsoiasu info@makersvil
le.net My Gym Children’s Fitness Center Shared Science Pamela Bangi mygymathebea
ch@cs.com Michella Wells info@sharedsci
encefun.info Skatedogs Adam Cohen adam@skatedog
s.com
Summer Dance Camp Becky Stone missbeckysdan
ce@gmail.com Summer with Westerly TKTC (The Kids Theatre Company) Safe Moves Pedro Jimenez pjimenez@west
erlyschool.org Kyle Becker tktcbuzz@gmai
l.com Barabara sheppard barbara@safem
oves.org Lowell Log EMAIL PHO
NE 562-­‐
901-­‐
0111 (562)
951-­‐
5383 (562)
4394777 (562) 999-­‐
1482 323-­‐
874-­‐
3456 562-­‐
426-­‐
7601 805-­‐
498-­‐
5572 Website http://actingoutcamp.com http://www.aquariumofpacific.or
g http://www.artsmartstudioforki
ds.com http://www.artexchangelb.org http://www.bobbyburgesscotilli
on.com https://www.alpertjcc.org/camp http://www.wasewagan.com 562-­‐
438-­‐
3262 714-­‐
726-­‐
0904 http://www.enpointedanceandfit
ness.com 562-­‐
270-­‐
5710 562-­‐
596-­‐
3394 562-­‐
225-­‐
9589 562-­‐
986-­‐
0066 http://www. http://inspyrarts.com http://www.lbymca.org/losaltos http://www.longbeachbsa.org http://www.mygym.com/longbe
ach 562-­‐
522-­‐
0595 714
313
8787
http://sharedsciencefun.org 562-­‐
637-­‐
3715 (310) 486-­‐
8817 http://www.missbeckydance.wix
.com/miss-­‐beckydance http://www.skatedogs.com http://www.westerlyschool.org http://tktcbuzz.com/ http://www.safemoves.org 15 NEWLY ADDED PTA INFORMATION SESSION REGARDING BUDGET
AMENDMENT PROPOSALS
Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2015
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Where: Auditorium
Purpose: Please join us to hear about the eligible budget amendment proposals our
Association will consider for spending our $80,000 in surplus funds this
year. Proposers will have a limited time to describe their proposals, and attendees will
have an opportunity to ask questions. This information session will allow us to move
quickly into voting during our last PTA Association meeting of the year on Tuesday,
June 2, 2015.
Executive Secretary Ruth
Chao
secretary@lowellpta.com
Parliamentarian Wendy
Becker wbecker@lbschools.net
I.
Welcome
• Pledge of Allegiance
• Appoint Volunteers to Approve June Meeting Minutes
• Adoption of Agenda
II.
Principal’s Report – Mr. Sam Platis
III.
President’s Report – Denise Mester
• Introduction of 2015-2016 Executive Board
IV.
Officer Reports:
• Treasurer and Financial Secretary – Rebeca Matta/Katie Zinn
o Financial Reports, Approval/Ratification of Bills, Budget Update
o Approval of writing summer expenses/checks
o Approval of changes to checking account signatures
• Ways and Means – Dawna DeLong/Jenny Kuo
V. Report of the Executive Board
VI. Committee Reports:
• Technology Use Committee
• Green Team
• Fifth Grade Activities Committee
• Dining for Dollars
• Carnival Wrap-Up
VII. Budget Surplus Proposals and Vote
• Budget Update
• Overview of Eligible Proposals
• Recommendations from Executive Board, Cabinet, and Teachers
• Vote
VIII. New Business/Announcements
• Cabinet Elections
• Misc. Announcements
• Honorary Service Awards
IX. Adjourn
May 2015 Vice President Mary Scott
vicepres@lowellpta.com
Financial Secretary Katie Zinn
financial@lowellpta.com
June Association Meeting
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
6:30 p.m. in the Auditorium
The deadline for the June Lowell Log is
Tuesday,
May
20.
Please
make
submissions to Communications Chair,
Allison Keller at comm@lowellpta.com.
Stay informed with Lowell's monthly
newsletter. For the most up to date info visit
us online at www.lowellpta.com.
PTA President Denise Mester
pres@lowellpta.com
Treasurer Rebeca Matta
treasurer@lowellpta.com
PTA Meeting Agenda
Lowell Log Deadline
Lowell PTA
Executive Board
2014-2015
Webmaster:
Shawn Oatey
webmaster@lowellpta.com
Communications Chair
Allison Keller
comm@lowellpta.com
This Log has been approved by Principal Sam Platis and
PTA President Denise Mester. Lowell Elementary PTA is a
proud unit of Long Beach Council PTA, the Thirty-Third
District PTA, and the California State PTA
The mention of any business or service in this newsletter
does not
imply an L
endorsement
by Lowell PTA.
Lowell og Ways and Means
Dawna DeLong
Jenny Kuo
ways@lowellpta.com
Membership
Sabine Cain
Danielle Van Divort
membership@lowellpta.com
Head Room Rep
Cameron Hernandez
roomrep@lowellpta.com
Communications Allison
Keller
comm@lowellpta.com
Auditor Lori Hess
auditor@lowellpta.com
Web Master Shawn Oatey
webmaster@lowellpta.com
Teacher Rep Pam Parkin
pparkin@lbschools.net
Historian Cammie Cassiano
historian@lowellpta.com
Green Team
Karen Taylor
Amy Royle
garden@lowellpta.com
Principal Sam Platis
splatis@lbschools.net
Lowell Elementary
5201 East Broadway Long
Beach, California 90803
T 562.433.6757 | F
562.438.3264 http://lowelllbusd-ca.schoolloop.com
A member of:
Thirty-third District PTA
16 Long Beach Council PTA
California PTA
National PTA
2
1
Lowell Log Calendar
2015
May
Sunday
26
Monday
27
Tuesday
28
Wednesday
29
Thursday
30
Friday
1
Saturday
2
Dippin’ Dots
after school
lunch benches
PTA Meeting
6:30p
auditorium
Smarter Balance Testing
3
4
5
6
7
Lowell Musical
“Annie”
3:45p & 7p
8
Carnival t-shirt
order forms due
Lowell Musical
“Annie”
3:45p & 7p
10
17
24
11
12
13
14
MTM assembly
2:25p
MTM lesson
3:30p
Cabinet meeting
8a library
Dining for Dollars
at Domenico’s
gift card order
due
18
19
20
21
Special PTA
Meeting:
Information
Session on
Budget
Amendment
Proposals 6:30 auditorium
Log Deadline
26
27
25
Lowell Musical
“Annie”
11am, 2pm &
7pm
16
Chess Club
Tournament
8:45a
PTA Exec. Board
meeting
6:30p library
22
23
Carnival ticket &
wristband order
due
Teacher
Luncheon
28
gift card order
due
Memorial Day
Minimum Day
2p dismissal
29
30
Career Day
LEGO MY
LOWELL
Carnival
10:30a-3:30p
Open House
6:30-8pm
no school
May 2015 15
9
Lowell Log 17