Charter Chatter

                                        A weekly newsletter written to parents of the TLC

Oct. 27, 2016                                                                                                      Vol.13

We are now beginning the rainy season; I call it the season that makes our campus look the worst.  It is also a time when it is important to leave early from home to be sure to arrive to school on time.  More accidents happen in the rain and people seem to rush more then as well.  Many thanks to all of you who have followed the guidelines for drop off and pick up, it does make a difference.

It is near the end of the first trimester for our Primary and Discovery students.  Parent conference information will be going out soon.  At the same time, as hard as it is to believe, we have sent out the applications for our eighth graders who wish to attend Millennium High School.  The students have heard from the counselors, a teacher, and some students about the benefits of attending MHS, there is also a parent meeting for information next week as well.

Crab Feed

SAVE THE DATE:  February 4, 2017 11^TH Annual Tracy Learning Center Crab Feed

What an awesome event for our school! Crab, pasta, salad, bread, dessert, raffles, dancing and so much more.

We are looking for volunteers to assist with our Raffle Committee. If you are creative WE NEED YOU!

Please contact Donna Baker at (209) 321-9157 or email donna@donnabaker.com.

BIG THANKS TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS AND ATTENDEES THAT CAME OUT THE OUR ‘HAUNTED HIGH’ .  WE HAD A LOT OF FUN (AND FRIGHTS) AND IT WAS A GREAT FUNDRAISER FOR OUR SCHOOL.

Next School Holiday – Friday, Nov. 11, 2016 Veteran’s Day

 Thanksgiving Week Nov. 21-25 are school holidays

T K

Primary Charter

Initial Phase this week, we have been talking about the life cycle of a pumpkin.  We have read about it, wrote about it, made diagrams, and even watched what happens when a pumpkin decays.
As the days get cooler, many students are coming to school and are cold.  Please help your student dress for the chilly mornings by layering with a sweatshirt or light jacket.  Remember, to label everything so we can help make sure
everything gets returned.  Finally, don’t forget to send your student to school in their costume with clothes on underneath and come watch our Halloween parade on Monday at 9:00.  We hope to see you there!

This week Phase 1 students celebrated Red Ribbon Week by making a pledge to be more respectful.  Then they wrote their names on red ribbons and tied them on our fence as a way to honor their promise.  Many students still had on their red bracelets by Friday.  How nice it was to see so many students wearing red to represent their pledge to be respectful!  In Science, students learned about the life cycle of a pumpkin and created other fall crafts. Students even got to try roasted pumpkin seeds!  We are so proud of how many students are on target to make their AR goal!  Great Job!!  Students did some reviewing and assessing this week as teachers got ready to record their final trimester grades.  Conferences are coming up soon.  Look for information to come home in the green folders.  Don’t forget next week is the Halloween Parade and the Phase 1 Harvest Festival.

Phase 2 students are excited about our upcoming field trip to Mission San Juan Bautista.  All chaperones have been selected and we ask that chaperones please pay the $30.00 donation fee and make sure you are cleared in the office to volunteer.  Please make sure that students are chaperones arrive to school on time Thursday, as we are leaving right on schedule!

Please remember the guidelines for Halloween costumes…no weapons or excessively scary costumes.  We will see you at our Halloween parade on Monday at 9:00!

^{Discovery Charter}

Every morning…..students hear announcements, key facts, and watch peer entertainment.  Each morning we start our day with consistency, togetherness, and positive information. Ask your child what they heard, watched, or said at unity.

On Friday, October 21^st, Ms. Rodieck’s Genius Hour students showed off their knowledge through presentations…..they were amazing!!!!

Students use their knowledge of A “Great Panda” presentation helped learning to make stress balls, and science to show how friction can slow the audience captive to become stress free down the movement of a car.

Every-other-Friday, community members share their occupations with our 5/6 students.  We have had a variety of presentations to include community service officers, a veterinarian, the Mayor of Tracy, and business associates.  The presentations teach our students what type of jobs are out there, and what it takes to get into various occupations.  If you are interested in presenting, please contact Ms. Pelaez at lpelaez@tracylc.nert or Mrs. Hawkins at shawkins@tracylc.net.

 SCIENCE CAMP will be here before you know it.  Ms. Pelaez held a Science Camp meeting on Thursday. r She reviewed the Science Camp packet, and other important details about camp.  Please contact Ms. Pelaez with questions: lpelaez@tracylc.net.  The cost to attend camp is $350.00 per student.  Students will attend camp the week of January 9^th.  (grades 5/6)

NEWSPAPER (EXPLORATION) : If you would like to read the latest edition to Ms. Zaca’s newspaper class, go to:

Spelling Bee:  Students in 4^th through 6^th grade will be given time on Friday’s to study with Ms. Rodieck and Mrs. Hawkins.  Any students interested in competing in the Bee, will be invited during lunch (5/6) and at 2:00 (4^th). The Spelling Bee will be held at Tracy Learning Center on November 8^th – the winner of the 4, 5, 6 division and the winner of the 7, 8, 9 division will move onto the County Spelling Bee.  If you would like more details, please contact………….. Ms. Rodieck lrodieck@tracylc.net or Mrs. Hawkins shawkins@tracylc.net

MONDAY AT UNITY – OUR TOP 5 DEN WINNERS…….

Ms. T and Coach Williams        Mrs. Beckner and the               Ms. Zaca and the            Ms. Rodieck and Ms. Pelaez

SIBERIAN TIGERS (3^rd)            MALAYAN TIGERS  (4^th)           BENGAL TIGERS  (2nd)    SUMATRAN TIGERS (1^st)         

Sumatran’s cheer …… they are in first place for the week!!! GREAT JOBS!

DHSP

Discover High School Prep

Charter Chatter: 

Time to think about high school:

The high school counselors talked to each class about the requirements for graduation from high school as the 8^th graders begin thinking about their choice for next year. The enrollment period for Millennium this year will be the month of November.  Mrs, Beringer sent information home to each 8th grader and they have until November 30 to return the MHS application to hold their priority. 

Top Den Earners for the Week

Malayan:

Ashleigh Garcia 730 points

Sukhmani Dhadiala 620 points

Crystal Conner 370 points

Julie Kleim 350 points

Marshall Conner 345 points

Bengal:

Sydney Skaggs 500

Emily Ramirez 440

Shyanne Viniskey 390

Sasha Lang 325

Gabriella Virgen 325

Sumatran:

Kaleena Orlanes 460

Madeline Murry 390

Alaiina Pelican 365

Julia Yanke 365

Joii Ziller 355

Siberian:

Jeremy Adams 380

Manreet Atwal 295

Grace Bhatia 285

Kailey Galli 250

AAliyah Jenkins 250

English:

Mrs. Stewart’s English 78 has completed the first twelve weeks.  The student reflection indicates the following: they loved our debate on the candidates and felt they learned a great deal about the candidates and debating skills.  They are enjoying Soldier X because it is a mature book that truly explains the feelings soldiers have in war.  They realize the PSAT scores are going up because they reflect what we have learned n grammar and writing.  They have seen a great increase in writing scores because of the amount of writing we do in class.  Many realize the power of increasing vocabulary for reading, writing and speaking.  Finally, they appreciate but, not all like it, the use of syntax charts before diagramming sentences and the annotation we have learned to do for reading.  It is the consensus that the class is very challenging and demands much from the student but it i appreciated.  They like the challenge.  They all agree we waste time with transition when some in the class talk, otherwise they are pleased.

Mrs. Stewart is also pleased with the progress the class is making.  She finds the class very exciting and rewarding as well.

This week in Ms. Langston’s Language Arts, we are honing our persuasive essay writing skills, advancing in diagramming, introducing perfect tense, and adding to our growing vocabulary.

In Ms. Langston’s classes this week the students are reflective as the first trimester starts winding down. They will be writing a letter reflecting on their progress thus far, what they hope to improve and how, and how they plan to continue the strategies that have proven successful. (Encourage your student to share with you!)

Math: 

Intro to Algebra is preparing for their parts and wholes unit exam on Monday!

Algebra 2 is getting close to finishing their unit on Matrices.

Algebra 1 is getting through graphing slowly but surely.

Have eyes and ears out for our MATHCOUNTS competition. We will be choosing a team soon! The competition will be in February!

Social Studies:

Mr. Saldante was able to finish up the unit on WWII while he was subbing for Mrs. Wallace. The students enjoyed having a high school teacher for a month, but seemed quite happy to have Mrs. Wallace back.

Spanish:

We have started our presentation projects, where each student needs to research a Spanish song or poem, then recite it in Spanish in class, and then translate/recite it in English.

Leadership:

Candy Grams are on sale, $1 and will be delay

Fall Dance has been canceled, students can get their refund from Mrs. Dominguez or they can keep in as a deposit for our Winter Dance, date to be announced.

Washington D.C. 2017!!!

It’s not too late to sign up for the DC trip. Students will visit the Washington Monument, Arlington National Cemetery and the Holocaust Museum. What an opportunity to see our nations capital with classmates. It’s exciting to see how many students have already signed up for this great opportunity. Please contact Mrs. Wallace at dwallace@tracylc.net for assistance.

If you do not want your student to have his/her photo published please notify Mrs. Wallace at dwallace@tracylc.net

Please feel free to contact any of your student’s teachers if you have any questions or concerns.

Math: Mrs. Dominguez ddominguez@tracylc.net

Math: Mrs. King   lking@tracylc.net

Language Arts: Ms. Langston alangston@tracylc.net

Language Arts: Mrs. Cerezo acerezo@tracylc.net

Science: Mrs. Ramirez aramirez@tracylc.net

Social Studies, DHSP Learning Director: Mrs. Wallace dwallace@tracylc.net

Enjoy your weekend.

Charter Chatter October 28, 2016

College Early Start

The application and registration process to apply for Spring 2017 Delta College classes has begun. Students who are required or interested in enrolling in classes for the Spring must begin the application process immediately. Please remember that for students to be approved to enroll in college classes while in high school, students must successfully meet deadlines, follow instructions for applying, and have a good current academic record of 3.0 or better.  For more information, parents can visit the Counseling page of the www.tracylc.net and click on College Early Start link. College Early Start forms are due Thursday, November 10^th.

Students seeking tuition reimbursement from Fall semester classes should be turning in their reimbursement request form with proof of grade and payment for Delta College classes attended

San Francisco State University and FIDM Field Trip – This Field Trip is now full!!

Millennium High School students will be visiting San Francisco State University and FIDMs SF campus on Tuesday, November 15th from 7:15am to 4:30pm. The bus and the waitlist for this field trip are full.

 Community Service Opportunities

Tracy First Presbyterian Church Community Garden Fall Cleanup Work Party Saturday, October 29 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon Community Garden (corner of Mt. Diablo and 3rd Street, Tracy – just off MacArthur) 6+ Volunteers needed for weeding and general cleanup. Water is available; please bring gardening gloves (spare pairs of gloves will be available, too!) ….walk-ins are welcome Contact: Roger Winkler at 209-833-0937 or tishwink@live.com

Tracy Toyota’s Trunk or Treat Monday, October 31  2:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Tracy Toyota (2895 N. Naglee Rd, Tracy – front lot) Volunteers are needed: 2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. assist with decorations 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Pass out candy to trick or treaters Help children with simple games like bean bag toss, Pass out prizes in exchange for game tickets Contact: Sharon Kawaguchi 925-413-6413 or Sharon.kawaguchi@gmail.com

Halloween – Monday, October 31, 2016

Just a reminder MHS Students are not allowed to dress up or wear costumes/accessories

Charter Chatter

A weekly newsletter written to parents of the TLC

Oct. 21, 2016                                                                                                      Vol.12

Two weeks ago, I met with three parents who shared their concerns about safety on our school campus.  They raised some issues and we came up with some possible solutions. We do not want to do anything structural at this time because we will be remodeling and building a whole new building for Primary and Discovery within the next two years.  The committee however would like to set up volunteers to work as a school watch committee.  They would like a parent to monitor the front gate and the primary bathroom area.  We would provide a safety vest and badge and the parents could sign up for times they would be available.  It requires registering as a volunteer with the front office.  If you are interested in being part of the School Watch, please let the office know by calling Kay at 831-5240.  The next meeting will be on  November 2, 2016 at 10:15am in the front office.

Crab Feed

SAVE THE DATE:  February 4, 2017 11^TH Annual Tracy Learning Center Crab Feed

What an awesome event for our school! Crab, pasta, salad, bread, dessert, raffles, dancing and so much more.

We are looking for volunteers to assist with our Raffle Committee. If you are creative WE NEED YOU!

Please contact Donna Baker at (209) 321-9157 or email donna@donnabaker.com.

Golf Tournament

A big thank you to the following for sponsoring our 2nd Annual Golf Tournament: Custom Exteriors, California First, Associated Compressor & Equipment, Mr. Rooter, At Home Real Estate Group,  Der Manouel Insurance, Administrative Resource Inc., B&R Landscaping, TNT, Delta Disposal, Gary’s Flooring, Sac-Val, Assad Insurance, Academy Mortgage, Roto-Rooter, Taylor Farms, Athletic Perfection All Star Cheer, Dr. Schack (Tracy Chiropractic Office), Home Buyers Realty, Winco,  Debra Verde and  The Dugout.

Thank you as well to all those that participated, donated and volunteered their time to make this year another success. We couldn’t have done it without you. We look forward to making next year even bigger and better at a new location. Stay tuned for details!!!

If you would like to be on the golf tournament list and first to hear about open registration please email Coach KV at kvigil@tracylc.net.

Coach KV
Millennium High School Physical Education
Assistant Boys Varsity Basketball
51 E. Beverly Place
Tracy Ca 9547

T K

This week in TK the students had fun learning about pumpkins in science.  We wanted to be ready for our field trip to the pumpkin patch next week, so we learned all about the life cycle of a pumpkin.  Students became experts in the 6 stages of a pumpkin’s life and understand how the cycle will repeat.  They are excited to show off their knowledge on the farm next week!

If you have not turned in your permission slip for the field trip please do so as soon as possible.  Thank you to everyone who has volunteered to chaperone.  We had an abundance of volunteers and had to choose our chaperones by random drawing.   If you were not chosen to attend, you will be given priority on our next trip.  Thank you for your continued support of our classroom!

Primary Charter

This week in Initial Phase we are talking a lot about independence.  For instance, we have been encouraging students trying at least three times before asking for help with opening food items, fruit, or water bottles.  You can also use the rule at home as a means to foster independence.   We talk a lot about “controlling our actions.”  We offer concrete strategies, such as; bubbles in our mouth, to control talking and hands in pocket, to control movement, instead of ‘telling” them exactly what to do.   Little tricks like these can help pave the way to independence both in and out of the classroom.

Phase 1 students completed their unit on Native Americans and have an amazing “museum” filled with information and artifacts.  What a great time they had discovering how the Native Americans lived and learning all about them!  Many students have reached their AR goals already and many are very close.  We have seen a great improvement in scores and participation.  In math we are really working on using analytical thinking to problem solve and logic to check our work.  Math problems only have 1 answer but how you get that answer is the strategy.  Our students are exploring many strategies.  Phase 1 students are excited for Red Ribbon Week next week and for the Halloween parade!  Please check your child’s green folder for information about the parade as well as the Haunted High.

Phase 2 students are continuing their study of the California Missions.  We are excited about our upcoming field trip to Mission San Juan Bautista.  All chaperones have been selected and notified.  We appreciate everyone who volunteered to go with us!  We will send home more field trip information as the big day gets closer.

^{Discovery Charter}

Every-other-Friday, community members share their occupations with our 5/6 students.  We have had a variety of presentations to include community service officers, a veterinarian, the Mayor of Tracy, and business associates.  The presentations teach our students what type of jobs are out there, and what it takes to get into various occupations.  If you are interested in presenting, please contact Ms. Pelaez at lpelaez@tracylc.nert or Mrs. Hawkins at shawkins@tracylc.net.

Science Olympiad: Next Tuesday, October 25^th from 4:15 – 5:00.  This practice is for all of the ‘1:00 events.’  Check your calendar for all other practices.

Haunted High will be held on Friday, October 28^th at 5:00 – 6:30 (KID FRIENDLY) in the gym; 7:00 – 10:00 (BIG KIDS AND TEENS).  $7.00 for admission, food (tri-tip, hot dogs, nachos, and more) at an additional cost. ****BOUNCE HOUSES AND CARNIVAL GAMES.  YOUR 5/6 TEACHERS WILL BE AT THE GATE TO GREET YOU!!!!!! 100 points to any students who attend Haunted High…..see you there J

SCIENCE CAMP will be here before you know it.  Ms. Pelaez held a Science Camp meeting on Thursday. r She reviewed the Science Camp packet, and other important details about camp.  Please contact Ms. Pelaez with questions: lpelaez@tracylc.net.  The cost to attend camp is $350.00 per student.  Students will attend camp the week of January 9^th.  (grades 5/6)

NEWSPAPER (EXPLORATION) : If you would like to read the latest edition to Ms. Zaca’s newspaper class, go to:

Spelling Bee:  Students in 4^th through 6^th grade will be given time on Friday’s to study with Ms. Rodieck and Mrs. Hawkins.  Any students interested in competing in the Bee, will be invited during lunch (5/6) and at 2:00 (4^th). The Spelling Bee will be held at Tracy Learning Center on November 8^th – the winner of the 4, 5, 6 division and the winner of the 7, 8, 9 division will move onto the County Spelling Bee.  If you would like more details, please contact………….. Ms. Rodieck lrodieck@tracylc.net or Mrs. Hawkins shawkins@tracylc.net

MONDAY AT UNITY – OUR TOP 5 DEN WINNERS…….

Ms. T and Coach Williams        Mrs. Beckner and the               Ms. Zaca and the            Ms. Rodieck and Ms. Pelaez

SIBERIAN TIGERS (3^rd)            MALAYAN TIGERS  (4^th)           BENGAL TIGERS  (1^st)    SUMATRAN TIGERS (2^nd)

Many days, students work together in collaborative groups to learn from one another and to work on projects.  Below, students work together in reading groups, technology groups, and peer-to-peer teaching groups.

In class, we present and debate.  In the pictures below, students collaborate and discuss their teams debating strategies.

EXPLORATION TIME: Exploration is held 3 days per week for one hour each day.  Students are able to join one class, every 6 weeks.  Academic Pentathlon and Band are year-round classes.  On Monday, the 24^th we will begin our new set of classes.  They include:

Academic Pentathlon (year round): students have been meeting every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to learn about World War II.  They study words, history, art, the science behind the war, and much more.  Please ask your child what they are working on (if they are in that class).

Band (year round): students meet 4 days per week to learn the appreciation of music, and the foundations of what they will need for their future as band students at Discovery High School Prep, Millennium, and beyond.  5/6 will play in the winter concert and play at Great America.

Leadership: Students in leadership are responsible for decorating the gym for academic events, school events (such as the 6^th grade breakfast, Pre-K graduation, Spelling Bee, etc). They are given jobs to include photography for our year book, tutoring for grades K – 4, teacher aides for grades K – 8, the green committee (recycle and other programs), and daily unity.  Students learn to work together, to work with adults, to take responsibility for their positions, and to communicate effectively with staff, peers, and our community.

Spanish: This year, students are learning the basics of Spanish.  They work with their teacher, Mr. Gomar, to learn to count, ask questions, and state information.  Walking into Mr. Gomar’s class is enchanting.  Students have pictures and materials to show the information while saying the information in Spanish.

Dance:  Students are learning the importance of stretching and hydrating.  They are listening to a variety of music and learning about rhythm and genre.  Students work together with Coach C to create new dances or to learn current dances.  Dances include swing dancing (WWII) through slides, and current dances.  At the end of exploration, students will perform their dance at unity.

Movement:  Students are watching videos about exercise, yoga, dance, and more.  They are learning that movement is positive and necessary for good health.  In class, students help one another and find laughter through their learning.  Many students ask to stay in movement for the entire year…..but, they need to move on to embrace the full exploration experience.

Genius Hour:  In genius hour, students are able to take something they know about or want to learn about, research the information, and create a presentation to show others how to do it OR to teach others about their topic.  This exploration allow students to use technology, interview peers/staff, learn something new OR master something known, create presentation boards, and present to a group of peers/adults.

Newspaper: Students have press passes, computers, and writing tablets.  They act as writers, editors, photographers, and graphic artists to create a newspaper.  Students interview teachers, staff members, and peers.  They then collaborate to put their work together in a newspaper format.  The latest edition can be found on: http://discoverytigers2016.weebly.com/

CONGRATS to our 2016 Anti-bullying Poster Campaign Winners!!!

PLEASE REVIEW YOUR CHILD’S AGENDA.  THEIR AGENDA HOLDS DATES, HOMEWORK, PROJECTS, and other valuable information.

If you have questions, concerns, or if you want to discuss your child, please contact their teacher:

Mrs. Beckner: sbeckner@tracylc.net (math and academic pentathlon)

Mrs. Hawkins: shawkins@tracylc.net (language arts (dance and movement with Coach C))

Coach Lopez: blopez@tracylc.net (PE)

Coach P: mpenirian@tracylc.net (PE)

Ms. Pelaez: lpelaez@tracylc.net (science, science Olympiad, (Spanish with Mr. Gomar))

Ms. Rodieck: lrodieck@tracylc.net (language arts, genius hour)

Ms. T: ttakeuchi@tracylc.net (math, leadership)

Coach Williams: dwilliams@tracylc.net (PE)

Ms. Zaca: szaca@tracylc.net (social studies, newspaper)

DHSP

We are continuing our literary and theme study as we progress further into our novel, Soldier X. Students are able to identify key themes and instances in the book where the theme is showcased. We have also added to our repertoire of diagramming skills this week with more advanced concepts, such as direct address, appositives, possessive nouns, interjections, and much more. As always, we are striving to expand our growing vocabulary with new SAT words. We are keeping very busy in D-12!

Mrs. Dominguez

Next Week is Red Ribbon Week! Each day will have theme:

This years bracelet slogan is “RESPECT- TLC Family First”

10/24 (Monday) -“Team up to make good choices”

10/25 (Tuesday)- “I am a jean-ius. I make good choices!”

10/26 (Wednesday)- “Peace out to bad choices”

10/27  (Thursday)- “My future is bright because I make good choices”

10/28 (Friday)- “Respect. Family First- Den Day”- 

Mrs. Cerezo

This week is our vocabulary challenge! Students in my class have been working hard studying all of the vocabulary words that relate to our book, Soldier X. They have been doing a wonderful job!

Millennium’s Falcon Speech and Debate team started last year as a club founded by Sim Bhatia (2016) and Coach Beth Lamanna, whose numbers grew from 7 to 27 by the end of our first year.  For the 2016-17 season, Captains Jordan Keys, Alexis Diaz, and Samantha Carmona, together with Coach Lamanna, have welcomed over forty new members to our class this year, many of whom came to us from Discovery. We are so excited to grow in our skill and learning together! Competitions take place monthly and range from Lodi all the way down to Merced, hosted by various high school teams in our Yosemite Forensic League.   Last season, Millennium was ranked 10th out of the 15 active schools in the league by the end of the year.  Today, with the season only just begun, we are already 7th and climbing!  Here are the ribbons and medals the talented speakers of our awesome team have won in competition so far this season:

At our Varsity Only tournament on September 3rd, Samuel Zelalem took home 1st place in Impromptu.

At our Novice Only tournament on September 17, we had some huge wins with our first-time competitors in speech and debate events:

Puneet Kaler — 4th place in National Extemporaneous

Christian Silva — 5th place in National Extemporaneous

Joshua Diaz — 5th place in Original Advocacy

Nicole Engen — 3rd place in Original Advocacy

Manal Siddiqui — 6th place in Original Prose and Poetry

Matthew Carlos and Manal Siddiqui — 5th place in Duo Interpretation

Sara Satoh and Omar “Lyric” Mendoza — 4th place in Duo Interpretation

Kyle Lipich — 3rd place, Congressional debate, tied with MHS student below

Nicholas Clark — 3rd place, Congressional debate, tied with MHS student above

Diego Gomez Sanchez — 1st place, Congressional debate, tied with student below

Jalen King — 1st place, Congressional debate, tied with above

Our most recent tournament was on October 15, with over 300 kids from 15 schools competing.  Here are the wins our Falcon debaters brought home from this highly competitive Debate Only tournament:

Omar Mendoza and Sara Satoh, 4th place DUO Interpretation, novice division.

Puneet Kaler, 5th place Congressional debate, novice division.

Kyle Lipich, 4th place Congressional debate, novice division.

Diego Gomez Sanchez, 3rd  place Congressional debate, novice division.

Sam Zelalem and Ryan Ott, 2nd place Parliamentary debate, varsity division.

Speech and Debate is always in need of parent and teacher volunteers to act as judges at our events! There is no special training needed ahead of time, and you will be given all the information you need at the tournament. Judging is a fun and interesting way to get insight in to the speech and debate world while being entertained by the leaders of tomorrow!  Please contact Miss Lamanna at blamanna@tracylc.net if you are able to help us. Our next tournament is November 19, 2016, from 7:30 a.m. to approximately 6:00 p.m., at Bear Creek High School.

attachments: Novice students compete at Lodi High School in Modesto on September 17th while Varsity students serve as judges.

Veteran team members Samuel Zelalem (2017) and Ryan Ott (2017) display their 2nd place medals for their win in Varsity Parliamentary Debate on October 15th at Enochs High School.

  PLEASE JOIN US…

8^th Grade Parent Information Night

Thursday, November 3^rd, 2016

Millennium High School

6:00 PM – TLC Gymnasium

You will have an opportunity to learn about school culture at MHS and our academic programs available to your student. We hope to see you here!

College Early Start

The application and registration process to apply for Spring 2017 Delta College classes has began. Students who are required or interested in enrolling in classes for the Spring must begin the application process immediately. Please remember that for students to be approved to enroll in college classes while in high school, students must successfully meet deadlines, follow instructions for applying, and have a good current academic record of 3.0 or better.  For more information, parents can visit the Counseling page of the www.tracylc.net and click on College Early Start link. College Early Start forms are due Thursday, November 10^th.

Students seeking tuition reimbursement from Fall semester classes should be turning in their reimbursement request form with proof of grade and payment for Delta College classes attended

San Francisco State University and FIDM Field Trip

Millennium High School students’ grades 10th – 12th will be visiting San Francisco State University and FIDMs SF campus on Tuesday, November 15th from 7:155am to 4:30pm.  Students will be eating lunch at SFSU. Any student attending the trip will need to bring a sack lunch or money for lunch on campus. The cost of this field trip is $10.00 Space is limited. Please return the completed permission slips with payment as soon as p ossible. Spaces are available on a first come first served.

Community Service Opportunities

Arbor Day- Saturday October 22, 2016 9:00am Lincoln Park Tracy Students will be planting 150 trees in Tracy. Bring shovels, gloves and water (hole are pre-dug for the trees) Students should dress in clothes that can get dirty but is appropriate to wear to school. Contact: Keri Dowell keri_dowell@yahoo.com or Pete Mitracos pete@mitracos.com

SSCO Recognition Luncheon for Frank Garcia, Jr. Sunday, October 23 noon – 5:30 p.m. Guadalupe Center (126 West 1st Street, Tracy) set-up tables, clean-up, decorate Contact: Esther Kelly at 209-407-0735

SSCO Day of the Dead Celebration set-up Friday, October 28 4 p.m. Guadalupe Center (126 West 1st Street, Tracy) Volunteers are needed to set-up tables, decorate, and assist where needed Contact: Anita McManus at 209-814 -6580 or anitalou8@yahoo.com

      Charter Chatter

                                           A weekly newsletter written to parents of the TLC

Oct. 14, 2016                                                                                                                                             Vol.11

Sometimes it seems that our car line process is silly or overly emphasized, but we know through 16 years of experience that when parents follow the procedures it really does work.  If cars stay in the line and work their way up to their child, the child is safe from cars and from being lost.  Both are important to us.

If parents park and run across the street, they block the movement of cars and actually put their child in danger.  Running across the street with oncoming cars, even when a parent is holding the child’s hand is dangerous!

Please be cooperative and follow our procedures for picking up and dropping off students.  The few minutes parents think they may say parking and running over to hurry and get their child could cost a life.

Crab Feed

SAVE THE DATE:  February 4, 2017 11^TH Annual Tracy Learning Center Crab Feed

What an awesome event for our school! Crab, pasta, salad, bread, dessert, raffles, dancing and so much more.

We are looking for volunteers to assist with our Raffle Committee. If you are creative WE NEED YOU!

Please contact Donna Baker at (209) 321-9157 or email donna@donnabaker.com.

T K

This week students put their map skills to work as they learned about Christopher Columbus and how he sailed to the New World.  They enjoyed learning about the explorer and how some people thought the earth was flat!

As the weather is beginning to get cooler, please remember to check the extra clothes packed in your child’s backpack to make sure they fit and are weather appropriate.  If your child brings a coat or sweater to school, please label them.  Thank you!

Primary Charter

Initial Phase

The cold, wet weather is coming!  This means a lot of jackets, hats, mittens, etc….. When sending your student to school, keep in mind that many extra items can mean a lot of extra management for your student.  A great way to ensure that all items make it home is to label EVERYTHING.

This week has also been a week of illness.  Please remember to keep your student at home if they do not feel well.  As always, student MAY NOT come to school until they have been fever free for a full 24 hours!  Have a great weekend.

Phase 1

What another great learning week in Phase 1!  The students are really enjoying the unit on Native Americans and adding more artifacts to their museum.  This week they learned all about the Woodland Indians, longhouses, wigwams, and canoes.  Next week we will complete our unit.  In Writer’s Workshop many students have begun story writing and are enjoying creating their own characters, settings, plots, and problem/solutions.  Many fall activities will be coming up soon.  Please make sure to check your student’s folder for information.  Please also take some time this weekend to have a discussion about bullying and respect with your student.  Red Ribbon week is coming up and our theme is TLC Family First – RESPECT.

Phase Two

Wow!  What an incredible week for phase two students! Phase Two students had the opportunity to share each other’s Native American projects.  Students visited each other’s rooms and enjoyed seeing what each class did for their project. It was interesting to see the same project presented in different ways!  All students put in a lot of time and effort into their projects and it showed!  Keep up the great work Phase Two!

Our next field trip will be on November 3^rd.  Please fill out and return your students permission slip if you haven’t done so already.  They were due today.  You will be receiving chaperone information next week.

^{Discovery Charter}

Haunted High will be held on Friday, October 28^th at 5:00 – 6:30 (KID FRIENDLY) in the gym; 7:00 – 10:00 (BIG KIDS AND TEENS).  $7.00 for admission, food (tri-tip, hot dogs, nachos, and more) at an additional cost. ****BOUNCE HOUSES AND CARNIVAL GAMES

SCIENCE CAMP will be here before you know it.  Ms. Pelaez held a Science Camp meeting on Thursday. r She reviewed the Science Camp packet, and other important details about camp.  Please contact Ms. Pelaez with questions: lpelaez@tracylc.net.  The cost to attend camp is $350.00 per student.  Students will attend camp the week of January 9^th.  (grades 5/6)

Needed – we are in need of a non 5^th/6^th parent who is a registered nurse to attend Science Camp this year (Jan. 9 – 13). Salary will be discussed when application is provided. Please call (209 )831-5240 and speak to Kay Fagundes or Laura Pelaez

NEWSPAPER (EXPLORATION) : If you would like to read the latest edition to Ms. Zaca’s newspaper class, go to: http://discoverytigers2016.weebly.com/

Science Olympiad Practice.  Please review your child’s calendar to ensure your child is attending practice as scheduled.

Spelling Bee:  Students in 4^th through 6^th grade will be given time on Friday’s to study with Ms. Rodieck and Mrs. Hawkins.  Any students interested in competing in the Bee, will be invited during lunch (5/6) and at 2:00 (4^th). The Spelling Bee will be held at Tracy Learning Center on November 8^th – the winner of the 4, 5, 6 division and the winner of the 7, 8, 9 division will move onto the County Spelling Bee.  If you would like more details, please contact………….. Ms. Rodieck lrodieck@tracylc.net or Mrs. Hawkins shawkins@tracylc.net

MONDAY AT UNITY – OUR TOP 5 DEN WINNERS…….

Ms. T and Coach Williams        Mrs. Beckner and the                  Ms. Zaca and the      Ms. Rodieck and Ms. Pelaez

In language arts we diagram…….                   In Unity we have great entertainment

PLEASE REVIEW YOUR CHILD’S AGENDA.  THEIR AGENDA HOLDS DATES, HOMEWORK, PROJECTS, and other valuable information.

If you have questions, concerns, or if you want to discuss your child, please contact their teacher:

Mrs. Beckner: sbeckner@tracylc.net (math and academic pentathlon)

Mrs. Hawkins: shawkins@tracylc.net (language arts (dance and movement with Coach C))

Coach Lopez: blopez@tracylc.net (PE)

Coach P: mpenirian@tracylc.net (PE)

Ms. Pelaez: lpelaez@tracylc.net (science, science Olympiad, (Spanish with Mr. Gomar))

Ms. Rodieck: lrodieck@tracylc.net (language arts, genius hour)

Ms. T: ttakeuchi@tracylc.net (math, leadership)

Coach Williams: dwilliams@tracylc.net (PE)

Ms. Zaca: szaca@tracylc.net (social studies, newspaper)

DHSP

Mrs. Zo’s LA- This week was fantastic! We continued on in our reading of Soldier X and debated the pros and cons of driverless cars. The students had so much fun coming up with new ways to improve self-driving cars and loved having the freedom to voice their opinion. Looking forward to doing more of these in the future.
                     

Charter Chatter October 14, 2016

UC Davis and Sacramento State University Field Trip

Today, students grades 10^th-12^th visited UC Davis and Sacramento State University.

PSAT

The PSAT will be held on Wednesday, October 19^th, 2016 at 7:30am. Signups for the PSAT will have begun. The test fee is $18.00 and is due when you sign up for the test in the counseling office.  

Community Service Opportunities

Pregnancy Resource Center Annual Banquet October 18 5pm-8:30pm St. Bernard’s Holy Family Center 30 Servers needed Black Pants White Top Contact Cindy Ricksgers prcoftracy@yahoo.com

SSCO Recognition Luncheon for Frank Garcia, Jr. Sunday, October 23 noon – 5:30 p.m. Guadalupe Center (126 West 1st Street, Tracy) set-up tables, clean-up, decorate Contact: Esther Kelly at 209-407-0735

Spring Delta College Info

The College Early Start process for Spring 2017 Delta College students have begun.  There was an information meeting held this week with students to discuss the process for applying and registering for classes. Parents of students who are interested in taking classes at Delta College for the Spring 2017 semester need to visit:

http://millenniumhscounseling.weebly.com/college-early-start.html

   Charter Chatter

                                           A weekly newsletter written to parents of the TLC

Oct. 7, 2016                                                                                                                                              Vol.10

It is important to realize that one of the most important values of the Tracy Learning Center is the strong belief that all students can be successful.  We believe in individualizing our program to fit the needs of the students.  This is why we teach in small learning centers in K to 4 and why we use groups for instruction in grades 5 through 12.  Students are place in groups that are the appropriate level of instruction for success.  Nothing should be too easy or too challenging.  It should be just right.  This means each student should experience success.

May times students begin to excel and can be moved to a higher group which greatly pleases us. Other times students feel success and gain confidence which allows for greater growth later.  The progress of each student is very important to us.

In addition to education in academics, students need to learn the fundamentals of success as a student in the classroom.  Focus, attention, participation, organization, and responsibility are key factors for classroom success.  In themselves, they may not be essential, but to do well in school, students need to join their academic ability and their classroom focus for real results.  They go hand in hand.

Picture Day and Picture Retake Day

T-K Picture Day – Oct. 11, 2016 (no re-takes)

PCS, DCS, DHSP and MHS will have Picture Re-takes on Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2016 for any students who were absent on our previous picture days or students who or returning their pictures and are retaking them.

Crab Feed

SAVE THE DATE:  February 4, 2017 11^TH Annual Tracy Learning Center Crab Feed

What an awesome event for our school! Crab, pasta, salad, bread, dessert, raffles, dancing and so much more.

We are looking for volunteers to assist with our Raffle Committee. If you are creative WE NEED YOU!

Please contact Donna Baker at (209) 321-9157 or email donna@donnabaker.com.

T K

TK students are polite citizens!  We learned about our character building SWOs at the beginning of the year and our class is loving earning the Polite Citizen SWO.  Each time a student earns a SWO, they will have a paw print sticker added to their weekly behavior chart.  Our students use great manners and have really been showing their caring hearts!

This week in Social Studies students began exploring maps.  They created maps of their homes, city, state, country, continent, and planet!  Students learned how to use a key on a map and learned all about the compass rose.  They enjoyed practicing the directions and the silly statement ‘Never Eat Soggy Waffles’ to help them remember.  They loved looking at different kinds of maps and seeing our school online through google maps.

Reminder:  TK picture day is Tuesday, October 11th.

Primary Charter

Initial Phase

In Initial Phase this week, we had fun dressing like farmers, learning all about plants, reading, and decomposing numbers.  In addition, our Millennium High ASL class came and taught us about Sign Language!  We learned how to sign familiar animals from and Eric Carle book and we even learned the sign for our bunny Hamilton!  We loved it!

Phase One

Phase 1 students had a lot of fun celebrating the fall harvest dressed as farmers.  We love learning about the seasons, how they change, and what it brings.  We completed another week of learning about Native Americans.  This time we studied all about the Southwest Native Americans.  We made woven mats and Kachina dolls to add to our museum.  We also completed our second week of AR goals.  We can already see that more students will be going to the AR party this time!!!  Great job! Students got their hearing tested this week.  Any retakes will happen on November 7^th.  Thank you so much for all the donations for the McHenry House.  We appreciate your generosity.

Phase Two

Phase two students have been busy finalizing their Native American unit.  P3 did amazing job today with their Native American presentations!  We were very impressed with how well students presented their google slides and how creative they were in dressing up as Native Americans and creating their artifacts for their Native American museum!  On Tuesday, all classes will be sharing with each other their final projects.  We can’t wait to see them all!

Our next field trip will be on November 3^rd.  We will be visiting Mission San Juan Bautista.  Please fill out and return your students permission slip by Friday, October 14^th.

Please remember that make-up picture day is on Tuesday, October 11^th.

^{Discovery Charter}

SCIENCE CAMP will be here before you know it.  Ms. Pelaez held a Science Camp meeting on Thursday.  She reviewed the Science Camp packet, and other important details about camp.  Please contact Ms. Pelaez with questions: lpelaez@tracylc.net.  The cost to attend camp is $350.00 per student.  Students will attend camp the week of January 9^th.  (grades 5/6)

NEWSPAPER (EXPLORATION) : If you would like to read the latest edition to Ms. Zaca’s newspaper class, go to: http://discoverytigers2016.weebly.com/

Picture make-up day is October 11^th 

Science Olympiad Practice.  Please review your child’s calendar to ensure your child is attending practice as scheduled.

Spelling Bee:  Students in 4^th through 6^th grade will be given time on Friday’s to study with Ms. Rodieck and Mrs. Hawkins.  Any students interested in competing in the Bee, will be invited during lunch (5/6) and at 2:00 (4^th). The Spelling Bee will be held at Tracy Learning Center on November 8^th – the winner of the 4, 5, 6 division and the winner of the 7, 8, 9 division will move onto the County Spelling Bee.  If you would like more details, please contact………….. Ms. Rodieck lrodieck@tracylc.net or Mrs. Hawkins shawkins@tracylc.net

SCIENCE: The topic is “FLOATING AND SINKING.”  The goal is to link prior knowledge of the properties of matter to what students will be learning in earth science.  This unit is taught through “inquiry.”  “Inquiry” will include many hands-on activities and labs.  This means (parents), you will not see quizzes or notes from science – you will see more lab related work.  At the end of the unit there will be a unit test, rather than smaller quizzes.  As the test date comes closer, students will be provided with “study notes.”  If you have questions, please email lpelaez@tracylc.net.

MONDAY AT UNITY – OUR TOP 5 DEN WINNERS…….

Mrs. Beckner and the             Ms. T and the                  Ms. Rodieck & Ms. Pelaez        Coach Lopez and the

PLEASE REVIEW YOUR CHILD’S AGENDA.  THEIR AGENDA HOLDS DATES, HOMEWORK, PROJECTS, and other valuable information.

If you have questions, concerns, or if you want to discuss your child, please contact their teacher:

Mrs. Beckner: sbeckner@tracylc.net (math and academic pentathlon)

Mrs. Hawkins: shawkins@tracylc.net (language arts (dance and movement with Coach C))

Coach Lopez: blopez@tracylc.net (PE)

Coach P: mpenirian@tracylc.net (PE)

Ms. Pelaez: lpelaez@tracylc.net (science, science Olympiad, (Spanish with Mr. Gomar))

Ms. Rodieck: lrodieck@tracylc.net (language arts, genius hour)

Ms. T: ttakeuchi@tracylc.net (math, leadership)

Coach Williams: dwilliams@tracylc.net (PE)

Ms. Zaca: szaca@tracylc.net (social studies, newspaper)

DHSP

Ms. Langston LA- Things have been busy in Language Arts! We have now learned all 4 verb tenses in English and continue to gain expertise. This week, students worked together in groups to teach a diagramming lesson to the class, and each did so with skill! We are continuing to read Soldier X and are delving into the history surrounding the novel.

Mrs. Ramirez Science

Students explored Newton’s 1st Law of Motion during the Wacky Washer Lab. Flicking one washer at a time they were able to observe the objects that were initially at rest continued at rest until an outside force (another washer) acted upon it.

Mrs. Cerezo LA-
This week we continued our hard work on our current novel, Soldier X;  comparing our protagonists journey with that of our previous novel Number the Stars. The students have begun to relate Soldier X to modern society and have started to develop their own unique creative voice. Can’t wait to see how their analytical skills develop as the year progresses!

Science blurb:

Students explored Newton’s 1st Law of Motion during the Wacky Washer Lab. Flicking one washer at a time they were able to observe the objects that were initially at rest continued at rest until an outside force (another washer) acted upon it.

GO FALCONS!!

Community Service Fair

The Community Service Fair was held on Thursday, October 6^th. Over 25 non-profit organizations were on campus to inform our students about upcoming community service opportunities. Thank you to all of our community partners who attended this event.

UC Davis and Sacramento State University Field Trip

On Friday, October 14^th, 10^th-12^th grade students will be visiting the UC Davis and Sac State campuses. The bus list will be posted early next week in the counseling office.

PSAT

The PSAT will be held on Wednesday, October 19^th, 2016 at 7:30am. Signups for the PSAT will have begun. The test fee is $18.00 and is due when you sign up for the test in the counseling office.

Community Service Opportunities

SSCO Day of the Dead Workshop: Saturday, October 8 – 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Guadalupe Center (126 West 1st Street, Tracy…2 blocks into residential area by McDonald Park, intersection of 1st and Central) 10-12 Volunteers are needed to set-up tables, clean-up, decorate, and assist children at various hands-on workstations Contact: Anita McManus at 209-814-6580 or anitalou8@yahoo.com

Tracy Rampage: Saturday, October 8, 2016 8:00am-8:00pm 2 hour shifts 8am-10am is set up 10am-6pm is snack bar and 6pm-8pm is clean up. Please contact Melissa at 209-346-5305 or Melissa_sucrese@yahoo.com

We wanted to let TLC parents know we are well aware of the “Clown” craze that has been on many of the news reports and social media outlets.  Our staff, as well as Tracy Unified School District take such matters seriously.  The safety of our students is paramount and we wanted to let parents know we have not received any threats.

We will continue to work with Tracy Police and the district to maintain a safe learning environment but at this time we are confident our students and staff are safe.  As the Tracy Police confirmed, there are no reported threats and we do see any reason your students should not be at school.

If you ever have any questions or concerns please contact our front office at 209-831-5240.

Below is the notification that was sent by TUSD: