If you haven't already received a lunch menu, please download one today and turn it in the first day of school - January 5th!
You may also drop them off at the school on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday of each week. The extended care staff will be here.
Merry Christmas!
Elementary
Upper Grades
Friday, December 19, 2008
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
Enjoy the two weeks off with family and friends! During this Holiday season, ask your kids about Generosity - December's character trait.
If you are looking for a place to celebrate on Christmas Sunday, come at 10:45 this week as Pastor Tom speaks on "God with us" or join us Christmas Eve at 6 PM for a candelight service.
If you haven't yet conferenced with teachers, you may schedule appointments with anyone you need to in January. Copies of Report Cards will also be mailed out this week.
I look forward to seeing everybody again on Monday, January 5th!
Merry Christmas!
If you are looking for a place to celebrate on Christmas Sunday, come at 10:45 this week as Pastor Tom speaks on "God with us" or join us Christmas Eve at 6 PM for a candelight service.
If you haven't yet conferenced with teachers, you may schedule appointments with anyone you need to in January. Copies of Report Cards will also be mailed out this week.
I look forward to seeing everybody again on Monday, January 5th!
Merry Christmas!
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Congratulations -- FIRST PLACE
Congratulations to all of Palm View! Our hard work has paid off. The float won 1st place.
I can't say enough thank you's to all those that helped out on the float, including all of the 5th - 8th grade art students. The doctors, bankers, fire fighters, police officers and postal workers were great! Thanks also to our pre-schoolers who were awesome in their train engines!
Students -- pass the word, all school free dress on Monday and Thursday this week -- Thanks for all your hard work at the program and on the float.
See you Monday!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Be Money $mart Essay Contest
Enter the “Be Money $mart!” Essay Contest and win up to a $5,000 Savings Bond!
Age categories, essay questions and prizes:
3rd thru 5th Grades: Essay Question (250 words): Pretend you are a dollar bill. Tell us about one of your typical days. Where have you been? What have you purchased? Where are you going? Savings Bond Prize: $1,500
6th thru 8th Grades: Essay Question (500 words): Think of your dreams. Tell us what you want to do after high school, will you go to college, what career do you want to have? What do you want to be able to do with your money? Savings Bond Prize: $3,500
To enter the contest send your essay with your name, name of school, home address, phone number, and parent/guardian’s signature to:Be Money Smart! Essay ContestJunior Achievement of Southern California6250 Forest Lawn Drive Los Angeles, CA 90068
ONE winner in each grade level category will be selected to win ONE U.S. Savings Bond in the prize amount indicated.
To be eligible for the contest students must be in grades 3rd-12th residing in on or the ten counties which JA Southern California serves: Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Kern, King or Tulare. Junior Achievement and Allstate employees and their immediate families are not eligible to win.
Only ONE ENTRY per student. Once submitted, all essays are the property of both Junior Achievement of Southern California and Allstate. Essays may be used in duplication for various mediums. Entries must be received by January 31, 2009. Winners will be selected and notified by February 30, 2009.
Age categories, essay questions and prizes:
3rd thru 5th Grades: Essay Question (250 words): Pretend you are a dollar bill. Tell us about one of your typical days. Where have you been? What have you purchased? Where are you going? Savings Bond Prize: $1,500
6th thru 8th Grades: Essay Question (500 words): Think of your dreams. Tell us what you want to do after high school, will you go to college, what career do you want to have? What do you want to be able to do with your money? Savings Bond Prize: $3,500
To enter the contest send your essay with your name, name of school, home address, phone number, and parent/guardian’s signature to:Be Money Smart! Essay ContestJunior Achievement of Southern California6250 Forest Lawn Drive Los Angeles, CA 90068
ONE winner in each grade level category will be selected to win ONE U.S. Savings Bond in the prize amount indicated.
To be eligible for the contest students must be in grades 3rd-12th residing in on or the ten counties which JA Southern California serves: Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Kern, King or Tulare. Junior Achievement and Allstate employees and their immediate families are not eligible to win.
Only ONE ENTRY per student. Once submitted, all essays are the property of both Junior Achievement of Southern California and Allstate. Essays may be used in duplication for various mediums. Entries must be received by January 31, 2009. Winners will be selected and notified by February 30, 2009.
Sneak Peak Float Scene
Palm View Student Created Float Scene--
The Whittier Bailey Post Office and historic Bank of America are silhouetted against the Whittier Hills. The Whittier Train Depot is hidden on the other side of the hills. This scene rotates on top of the present. The parade is on Saturday at 10 AM! See you there!
Weekly Letter December 11
download pdf version here
11 December 2008
Christmas Program
On Friday, the Christmas program begins at 7:00 PM. Please have your child in their classroom by 6:40 PM. The 5th -8th graders will assemble in the Kidzone room. They can be picked up again in their classrooms after the program.
The students should wear their "Sunday Best." 2nd, 3rd & 4th graders will be performing a special number and have already been told what to wear.
The program will only be about 45 minutes this year. Many are involved in the parade the next morning, and the final touches to the float will need to be added Friday night. The PTF will have a table set up for parents to purchase shirts and get the lastest parade information.
PARADE INFORMATION
We have been assigned Division 4, #10. The staging area is on Camilla Street, East of Greenleaf and North of Hadley. (One block North of Winchell’s donuts). The float must be in position by 8 AM and all students should be in place and in costume by 8:30 AM. The parade is scheduled to begin at 10 AM. We are recommending that you park near the Community Center by Joe Miller field (the end of the parade route). We also recommend carpooling from the school as much as possible. Parking will be limited and difficult to find. The city does close off most of the streets by 8 AM.
The weather is forecasted to be wintery cold with a high of 55 degrees at parade start time. Dress warm! There is also a slight chance of drizzle. Hopefully, that will wait until the afternoon.
PTF NEWS
Please turn in any unsold Carls- JR booklets to the office by next week. All monies from sold books must be turned in by Wednesday. Thank you for helping out the students with your fundraisers.
PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES
Next week is early dismissal every day at 2 PM. There is NO CLASSES on Friday, but extended care will be available the entire day. The middle school teachers will be available in Rooms 302 & 304 the entire day. If you would like to make a particular appointment with one, we would highly recommend it.
11 December 2008
Christmas Program
On Friday, the Christmas program begins at 7:00 PM. Please have your child in their classroom by 6:40 PM. The 5th -8th graders will assemble in the Kidzone room. They can be picked up again in their classrooms after the program.
The students should wear their "Sunday Best." 2nd, 3rd & 4th graders will be performing a special number and have already been told what to wear.
The program will only be about 45 minutes this year. Many are involved in the parade the next morning, and the final touches to the float will need to be added Friday night. The PTF will have a table set up for parents to purchase shirts and get the lastest parade information.
PARADE INFORMATION
We have been assigned Division 4, #10. The staging area is on Camilla Street, East of Greenleaf and North of Hadley. (One block North of Winchell’s donuts). The float must be in position by 8 AM and all students should be in place and in costume by 8:30 AM. The parade is scheduled to begin at 10 AM. We are recommending that you park near the Community Center by Joe Miller field (the end of the parade route). We also recommend carpooling from the school as much as possible. Parking will be limited and difficult to find. The city does close off most of the streets by 8 AM.
The weather is forecasted to be wintery cold with a high of 55 degrees at parade start time. Dress warm! There is also a slight chance of drizzle. Hopefully, that will wait until the afternoon.
PTF NEWS
Please turn in any unsold Carls- JR booklets to the office by next week. All monies from sold books must be turned in by Wednesday. Thank you for helping out the students with your fundraisers.
PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES
Next week is early dismissal every day at 2 PM. There is NO CLASSES on Friday, but extended care will be available the entire day. The middle school teachers will be available in Rooms 302 & 304 the entire day. If you would like to make a particular appointment with one, we would highly recommend it.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Christmas Program and Parade
Check out the sneak preview!
To the right is a 3 foot model of the historic Whittier Bank of America Building. This set, along with models of the the Whittier Train Depot and the Bailey Post Office will be rotating on top of the giant 4 foot gift-wrapped package. That combined with a 7 panel mural of buildings of our community neighbors completes our float. The float will be unveiled the night of the Christmas Program.
Important Times to Remember
On Friday, the Christmas program begins at 7:00 PM. Please have your child in their classroom by 6:40 PM. The 5th -8th graders will assemble in the Kidzone room.
The students should wear their "Sunday Best." 2nd, 3rd & 4th graders will be performing a special number and have already been told what to wear.
The program will only be about 45 minutes this year, as many are involved in the parade the next morning. The PTF will have a table set up for parents to purchase shirts and get information about the parade the following morning.
PARADE INFORMATION
We have been assigned Division 4, #10. The staging area is on Camilla Street, East of Greenleaf and North of Hadley. The float must be in position by 8 AM and all students should be in place and in costume by 8:30 AM. The parade is scheduled to begin at 10 AM. We are recommending that you park near the Community Center by Joe Miller field (the end of the parade route). We also recommend carpooling from the school as much as possible. Parking will be limited and difficult to find. The city does close off most of the streets by 8 AM.
Some information and maps can be found on the Uptown Association's Website.
Suggestion Box
It has been suggested that we have a suggestion box.
We welcome suggestions, new ideas, and creative thinking!
There are several ways you may make suggestions. (Be creative, send me more and I'll post them too!)
1) email me. -- mjmiller@palmviewchristian.org or the office -- info@palmviewchristian.org
2) fax us -- 877-PVCS-1-FX (877-782-7139)
3) drop a note in the payment box -- it can even be anonymous
4) Make an appointment with me
5) Get involved with the PTF
6) write a message on my dirty car window
Remember, communication is a two way street. We'll take all the suggestions you have, but please help us implement them!
Thanks again to everyone for making Palm View Christian the best Christian educational value in the Whittier area!
Friday, December 5, 2008
Whoa! Financial woes.... Want some good news?
Every where you turn, there seems to be more bad news.
People keep asking me how enrollment is. The real question being asked is -- "Will Palm View survive this economic downturn, after the investment parents have put in?"
The answer is YES, YES, YES!
1) We are actually in a good financial position. At this point, we have had positive cash flow all year long. Our profit margin is thin, but positive. We don't have the cash flow to pay for all the extra's that we would like, be we continuing to offer a quality well rounded Christian education.
2) We will NOT be laying off any additional teachers or staff this year. We even expect to hire additional staff for next year. Other schools are preparing for mid year cuts.
3) This places us in an enviable position, as many other local schools are also feeling painful cuts and may not have the financial reserves to absorb the losses they are incurring. Principals of other local schools are contacting me, asking how we are making it. We're making it, because we're working together -- with you!
4) Yes, I wish we had a gym. But a gym doesn't make a school. Two Whittier area schools with nice gyms that had larger enrollment than we do now have had to close down in the last several years.
5) The future looks bright for Palm View. Mrs. Centmeyer and I spent another day at an accreditation workshop on Thursday Everything is on track for us to become only the second Christian school in Whittier to have a joint ACSI/WASC accreditation for PK-8! This will be a high honor indeed. The target date is Fall of 2010.
Palm View continues to be the best Christian education value in the Whittier / Pico Rivera area, bar none.
Now that's some good news!
People keep asking me how enrollment is. The real question being asked is -- "Will Palm View survive this economic downturn, after the investment parents have put in?"
The answer is YES, YES, YES!
1) We are actually in a good financial position. At this point, we have had positive cash flow all year long. Our profit margin is thin, but positive. We don't have the cash flow to pay for all the extra's that we would like, be we continuing to offer a quality well rounded Christian education.
2) We will NOT be laying off any additional teachers or staff this year. We even expect to hire additional staff for next year. Other schools are preparing for mid year cuts.
3) This places us in an enviable position, as many other local schools are also feeling painful cuts and may not have the financial reserves to absorb the losses they are incurring. Principals of other local schools are contacting me, asking how we are making it. We're making it, because we're working together -- with you!
4) Yes, I wish we had a gym. But a gym doesn't make a school. Two Whittier area schools with nice gyms that had larger enrollment than we do now have had to close down in the last several years.
5) The future looks bright for Palm View. Mrs. Centmeyer and I spent another day at an accreditation workshop on Thursday Everything is on track for us to become only the second Christian school in Whittier to have a joint ACSI/WASC accreditation for PK-8! This will be a high honor indeed. The target date is Fall of 2010.
Palm View continues to be the best Christian education value in the Whittier / Pico Rivera area, bar none.
Now that's some good news!
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Weekly Letter & Student Newspaper
Student Newspaper - December 3rd Edition -- CLICK HERE!
December 3rd Letter -- CLICK HERE!
FROM THE DESK OF MR. MILLER……………………
03 December 2008
THANK YOU
The final count on Operation Christmas Child Boxes was 60! Thanks to the 8th graders, my hair was a rainbow of colors! If any of you have pictures of the Thanksgiving Feast and the Festivities, please email them to us. We need pictures for the yearbook and website.
There are only 2 ½ weeks of school left until Christmas Vacation! Tickets are only $3 per person for Breakfast with Santa! Don’t forget the Holiday Boutique! Its all happening here, this Saturday, December 6th from 8 AM – Noon.
If you want to be in the parade – please complete the sign up form and turn in to us ASAP. The parade begins at 10 AM on Saturday, December 13th. Your child must be in place by 9:30. The float is almost complete!
CALENDAR
Friday, Dec 5th -- 7 PM Pre-School Christmas Program
Saturday, Dec 6th – 8 AM – Noon --Breakfast with Santa & Holiday Boutique (Photos - $5)
Friday, Dec 12th – 7 PM Elementary Christmas Program
Saturday, Dec 13th – AM Whittier Christmas Parade
Thursday, Dec 18 Last Day of School before Christmas Break (Class Parties)
Friday, Dec 19 Parent Teacher Conferences (pupil free day)
PTF NEWS
Please turn in any unsold Carls- JR booklets to the office by next week. All monies from sold books must be turned in by Wednesday. Thank you for helping out the students with your fundraisers.
With Generosity,
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
December 3rd Letter -- CLICK HERE!
FROM THE DESK OF MR. MILLER……………………
03 December 2008
THANK YOU
The final count on Operation Christmas Child Boxes was 60! Thanks to the 8th graders, my hair was a rainbow of colors! If any of you have pictures of the Thanksgiving Feast and the Festivities, please email them to us. We need pictures for the yearbook and website.
There are only 2 ½ weeks of school left until Christmas Vacation! Tickets are only $3 per person for Breakfast with Santa! Don’t forget the Holiday Boutique! Its all happening here, this Saturday, December 6th from 8 AM – Noon.
If you want to be in the parade – please complete the sign up form and turn in to us ASAP. The parade begins at 10 AM on Saturday, December 13th. Your child must be in place by 9:30. The float is almost complete!
CALENDAR
Friday, Dec 5th -- 7 PM Pre-School Christmas Program
Saturday, Dec 6th – 8 AM – Noon --Breakfast with Santa & Holiday Boutique (Photos - $5)
Friday, Dec 12th – 7 PM Elementary Christmas Program
Saturday, Dec 13th – AM Whittier Christmas Parade
Thursday, Dec 18 Last Day of School before Christmas Break (Class Parties)
Friday, Dec 19 Parent Teacher Conferences (pupil free day)
PTF NEWS
Please turn in any unsold Carls- JR booklets to the office by next week. All monies from sold books must be turned in by Wednesday. Thank you for helping out the students with your fundraisers.
With Generosity,
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Campbell Soup Label Update
Are you bringing in Campbell Soup Labels?
Did you know Prego, Swanson, and many other products also qualify?
Download this list and see all the items you can bring in!
Palm View PTF Updates and Christmas Parade Info
For all those that may have missed the last PTF meeting, please read the minutes here.
Thanks to all the parents and students for working so hard. We have raised a great deal of money for extra things in the school.
Get updates on the Carl's JR Fundraiser here.
And don't forget the Christmas Parade!
Weekly Letter November 20th, 2008
20 November 2008
Graterosity…
…When you become generous out of your gratitude!
Thank you to all the families that have been so generous by donating items for Operation Christmas Child. Our students are learning that as part of being thankful for what they have, they can give what they can. In this Thanksgiving Season, we want to remember our blessings and then bless others. Tomorrow is the last day to turn in the boxes!
There are a lot of important events on the calendar. First, Don’t forget tomorrow’s Thanksgiving Feast! Dismissal will be right after lunch about 1 PM. If enough boxes come in, Mr. Miller’s hair will turn colors! Extended Care will be available until 6 PM
Next week, NO SCHOOL. The school is closed every year for the ACSI convention and Thanksgiving Holiday. There will be Extended Care services available on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.
CALENDAR
Friday, Dec 5th -- 7 PM Pre-School Christmas Program
Saturday, Dec 6th – 8 AM – Noon --Breakfast with Santa & Holiday Boutique (Photos - $5)
Friday, Dec 12th – 7 PM Elementary Christmas Program
Saturday, Dec 13th – AM Whittier Christmas Parade
Thursday, Dec 18 Last Day of School before Christmas Break (Class Parties)
PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES
The last day of the 1st Trimester is Friday, December 5th. Parent – Teachers Conferences will be held the week of December 15-19. Every Day is a minimum day that week with dismissal at 2 PM. The entire day of Friday, December 19th has been reserved for conferences. There sill be NO SCHOOL that day. Extended Day Services will be available as normal..
FLOAT CONSTRUCTION VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – THIS SATURDAY – 2 PM
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Volleyball Game Schedule -- December
Here is the game schedule beginning December 1st. More games for January will be announced later.
Please mark the date, January 24th on your calendar as the Volleyball Tournament.
All games are held at Montebello Christian School. 136 South 7th Street, Montebello, CA 90640.
Please mark the date, January 24th on your calendar as the Volleyball Tournament.
All games are held at Montebello Christian School. 136 South 7th Street, Montebello, CA 90640.
Monday, November 17, 2008
California Fires / Air Quality / Rainy Day Schedules
Due to the fire, Palm View will continue operating on a rainy day schedule for the next several days until the air quality improves.
If you arrive before 7:50 AM, please report directly to the Kidzone Room, If you arrive after 7:50, please go directly to your classroom.
All lunches and recesses will be held in the fellowship hall.
PE classes will be held in doors.
Volley Ball practice will be held in a limited fashion in doors.
Air Quality Map
When the air quality map reaches moderate, we will resume out door activities.
If you arrive before 7:50 AM, please report directly to the Kidzone Room, If you arrive after 7:50, please go directly to your classroom.
All lunches and recesses will be held in the fellowship hall.
PE classes will be held in doors.
Volley Ball practice will be held in a limited fashion in doors.
Air Quality Map
When the air quality map reaches moderate, we will resume out door activities.
Friday, November 14, 2008
JBQ Update
The Southern California JBQ schedule has changed!
Please look at the current schedule or download the pdf file here.
There has been a date change for the meet in February from February 14 to February 7.
There has been a location change for District Finals from Orange Hills to Santa Maria on April 4.
Volley Ball Info - From Coach Jer
November 14, 2008
Volleyball Girls & Family,
A quick note:
I’m excited about coaching this team and working with the girls.
Practice unofficially started today (Thursday) but the season will start officially this
coming Monday. If your daughter wasn’t able to make it today, don’t worry.
Generally, unless I’ve stated otherwise, we’ll practice Monday through Thursdays except
obviously on game days. We’ll start practice sometime after school around 3:15 or 3:20
and finish around 4:30. I expect the girls to be at all practices and games unless I’ve been
notified in advance. This makes practice planning much easier—knowing who is going
to be there.
As we start the season there are still a lot of things to be worked out. (rides, drinks,
get togethers, etc). If there is anything you or your family would like to do to help, please let
me know.
Things to know going into the season:
I am understanding. Please vocalize questions or concerns.
Encourage the girls to be focused and hard working at practice.
Please have athletic shorts, shirt, knee pads, and shoes for each practice. It might even be
helpful to put a spare set somewhere just in case.
Practice at home. Hitting against the wall or with someone else. We want them to be
able to consistently hit the ball where they want.
I will try to send updates like this one periodically.
Have a great weekend and I will see you Monday.
Coach Jeremy
Volleyball Girls & Family,
A quick note:
I’m excited about coaching this team and working with the girls.
Practice unofficially started today (Thursday) but the season will start officially this
coming Monday. If your daughter wasn’t able to make it today, don’t worry.
Generally, unless I’ve stated otherwise, we’ll practice Monday through Thursdays except
obviously on game days. We’ll start practice sometime after school around 3:15 or 3:20
and finish around 4:30. I expect the girls to be at all practices and games unless I’ve been
notified in advance. This makes practice planning much easier—knowing who is going
to be there.
As we start the season there are still a lot of things to be worked out. (rides, drinks,
get togethers, etc). If there is anything you or your family would like to do to help, please let
me know.
Things to know going into the season:
I am understanding. Please vocalize questions or concerns.
Encourage the girls to be focused and hard working at practice.
Please have athletic shorts, shirt, knee pads, and shoes for each practice. It might even be
helpful to put a spare set somewhere just in case.
Practice at home. Hitting against the wall or with someone else. We want them to be
able to consistently hit the ball where they want.
I will try to send updates like this one periodically.
Have a great weekend and I will see you Monday.
Coach Jeremy
Knott's Berry Farm Field Trip CANCELLED
Dear parents of 1st – 4th graders:
We have been forced to cancel the Knott’s Berry Farm field trip scheduled for Tuesday, November 18th.
As many of you know, Knott’s Berry Farm has strict controls for the safety of students in its educational tours. (This is not a theme park trip). The field trips are conducted by trained teachers addressing California State Standards in social sciences. Because of the nature of this, the students are kept separate from other groups in the park and no other adults, except school teachers are allowed to accompany them.
Knott’s also requires a minimum number of students to present this tour. In our case, we needed 48 students. We were able to keep the cost down to a minimum, anticipating that all of our students would be able to attend. Unfortunately, with the amount of students that are not able to attend, we can no longer afford to offer this field trip.
We have chosen instead to reschedule this field trip during January for the 1st – 6th graders. More information will be given in January with the specific dates.
Tuesday will be a regular school day at Palm View.
We have been forced to cancel the Knott’s Berry Farm field trip scheduled for Tuesday, November 18th.
As many of you know, Knott’s Berry Farm has strict controls for the safety of students in its educational tours. (This is not a theme park trip). The field trips are conducted by trained teachers addressing California State Standards in social sciences. Because of the nature of this, the students are kept separate from other groups in the park and no other adults, except school teachers are allowed to accompany them.
Knott’s also requires a minimum number of students to present this tour. In our case, we needed 48 students. We were able to keep the cost down to a minimum, anticipating that all of our students would be able to attend. Unfortunately, with the amount of students that are not able to attend, we can no longer afford to offer this field trip.
We have chosen instead to reschedule this field trip during January for the 1st – 6th graders. More information will be given in January with the specific dates.
Tuesday will be a regular school day at Palm View.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Weekly Letter - November 12, 2008
12 November 2008
CHAPEL CHALLENGE
This month’s theme is Gratitude. For the remaining chapels in November & December, all monies will be going to Operation Christmas Child. I have also challenged the entire school to putting together at least 45 boxes. If the 5-8 graders put together more boxes than the K-4th, I will dye my hair: orange, purple, and green. We only have 9 days left to do this! You may pick up boxes at the school office.
THANKSGIVING FEAST
The Feast will be held at 11:45 on Friday, November 21st. Please look at the sign up sheet and see what your grade has been assigned to bring. Immediately after dinner and a short entertaining(?) program, all students will be dismissed about 1 PM. If you can join us, help serve and enjoy the day, please do so!
Extended Care will be available until 6 PM
ACSI CONFERENCE / Thanksgiving / No School
There is no school the week of Thanksgiving. The teachers will be attending the ACSI conference in Anaheim during this time. Extended care will be available on Monday, Tuesday, and possibly Wednesday. You must sign up in advance in order for us to staff it adequately.
CALENDAR UPDATE
By now, most of you should have received your student’s progress reports. The end of the First Trimester is on December 5th. Report Cards will be distributed during Conference Week. Those days are December 15-19. Monday –Thursday that week will be a minimum day with dismissal at 2 PM. Friday will be a pupil-free day with conferences scheduled the entire day. Extended Care services will be available.
IMPORTANT DATES
December 5 Pre-School Family Christmas Party
December 6 Breakfast with Santa & Boutique Sale
December 12 Elementary Christmas Program – 7 PM
December 13 Whittier Christmas Parade
Thankful for being faithful in paying your tuition accounts on time each month.
With Gratitude,
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
CHAPEL CHALLENGE
This month’s theme is Gratitude. For the remaining chapels in November & December, all monies will be going to Operation Christmas Child. I have also challenged the entire school to putting together at least 45 boxes. If the 5-8 graders put together more boxes than the K-4th, I will dye my hair: orange, purple, and green. We only have 9 days left to do this! You may pick up boxes at the school office.
THANKSGIVING FEAST
The Feast will be held at 11:45 on Friday, November 21st. Please look at the sign up sheet and see what your grade has been assigned to bring. Immediately after dinner and a short entertaining(?) program, all students will be dismissed about 1 PM. If you can join us, help serve and enjoy the day, please do so!
Extended Care will be available until 6 PM
ACSI CONFERENCE / Thanksgiving / No School
There is no school the week of Thanksgiving. The teachers will be attending the ACSI conference in Anaheim during this time. Extended care will be available on Monday, Tuesday, and possibly Wednesday. You must sign up in advance in order for us to staff it adequately.
CALENDAR UPDATE
By now, most of you should have received your student’s progress reports. The end of the First Trimester is on December 5th. Report Cards will be distributed during Conference Week. Those days are December 15-19. Monday –Thursday that week will be a minimum day with dismissal at 2 PM. Friday will be a pupil-free day with conferences scheduled the entire day. Extended Care services will be available.
IMPORTANT DATES
December 5 Pre-School Family Christmas Party
December 6 Breakfast with Santa & Boutique Sale
December 12 Elementary Christmas Program – 7 PM
December 13 Whittier Christmas Parade
Thankful for being faithful in paying your tuition accounts on time each month.
With Gratitude,
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
Early Education Updates!
Early Education is where the journey starts. About 20 years after your child begins at Palm View, they will be receiving their college degree!
We are committed to success in our early education center. As part of the ACSI benefits, we would like to offer you resources and information.
First -- Check out the Pre-School webpage. New pictures are posted there. Subscribe to this blog! Read the your re-Fill Newsletter. If there is any way we can assist you in raising your child in a Christian manner, please let us know!
your reFill
Welcome to the reFill e-newsletter, an encouragement as part of your ACSI membership offered in collaboration with MOPS International.
Engaging Through Listening
By Karen Marchant, Director of Development, MOPS International
As a leader, you know that the root cause of many issues in working with others is a lack of good communication. Communication challenges aren't confined to leadership; they also take place at home. Just try to communicate with a teenager who won't listen or an infant who can't talk or a husband who has run out of all his words by the time he gets home from work!
What makes communication so challenging? It requires active listening which takes focus, the right environment and using more than one of your five senses. Most importantly, effective listening requires that I check my ego at the door and set aside my personal agenda. What I believe and how I process what I hear is also influenced by my past experiences, present desires and prejudices or assumptions. Ultimately, effective listening requires humility - acknowledging that it's not all about me and what I want someone to know. It's about knowing what the other person wants me to understand.
All of these factors, when combined, present a compelling picture of why communication can be challenging. Just know that a wonderful gift you can give another person is the opportunity to be heard. Stopping everything you're doing, looking into the eyes of someone and simply listening communicates "You matter to me and you matter to God."
Share your thoughts on the weekly reFill Forum.
Welcome to the reFill e-newsletter, an encouragement as part of your ACSI membership offered in collaboration with MOPS International.
Engaging Through Listening
By Karen Marchant, Director of Development, MOPS International
As a leader, you know that the root cause of many issues in working with others is a lack of good communication. Communication challenges aren't confined to leadership; they also take place at home. Just try to communicate with a teenager who won't listen or an infant who can't talk or a husband who has run out of all his words by the time he gets home from work!
What makes communication so challenging? It requires active listening which takes focus, the right environment and using more than one of your five senses. Most importantly, effective listening requires that I check my ego at the door and set aside my personal agenda. What I believe and how I process what I hear is also influenced by my past experiences, present desires and prejudices or assumptions. Ultimately, effective listening requires humility - acknowledging that it's not all about me and what I want someone to know. It's about knowing what the other person wants me to understand.
All of these factors, when combined, present a compelling picture of why communication can be challenging. Just know that a wonderful gift you can give another person is the opportunity to be heard. Stopping everything you're doing, looking into the eyes of someone and simply listening communicates "You matter to me and you matter to God."
Share your thoughts on the weekly reFill Forum.
Breakfast with Santa & Holiday Boutique
Ho! Ho! Ho!
Yes, it's time for all those that want to sell items at the Boutique and Breakfast with Santa to sign up.
Space is limited, so sign up early.
Please download the registration form and sign up today!
Remember - Saturday, December 6th from 8 AM to Noon!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Reading First Resources & Houghton Mifflin
Last week, Audrey Cumings held a 3 hour inservice for our teachers going over the new HM curriculum. In the next few weeks, additional training will be provided by WCSD reading coaches through a Reading First Grant.
Some districts choose to use their grant money by providing coaches, others train teachers, and others create websites that all teachers and parents can use.
One of the best websites I have seen so far is from the Manchester GATE program in Fresno. This student oriented site has linked together additional story background from the themes in the 2nd - 5th grade books.
Santa Maria Bonita's website has teacher resources.
Of course, Houghton Mifflin has their own website complete with resources and games for kids to play.
Another good student oriented commercial website with games that make learning fun is FUNBRAIN.
Remember, the 3rd - 5th graders also have access to the Scott Foresman history page and textbook online. Login is YOURASSIGNEDNAME.PVCS and password is GO.
If you need help, let me know!
Log on and check them out!
Some districts choose to use their grant money by providing coaches, others train teachers, and others create websites that all teachers and parents can use.
One of the best websites I have seen so far is from the Manchester GATE program in Fresno. This student oriented site has linked together additional story background from the themes in the 2nd - 5th grade books.
Santa Maria Bonita's website has teacher resources.
Of course, Houghton Mifflin has their own website complete with resources and games for kids to play.
Another good student oriented commercial website with games that make learning fun is FUNBRAIN.
Remember, the 3rd - 5th graders also have access to the Scott Foresman history page and textbook online. Login is YOURASSIGNEDNAME.PVCS and password is GO.
If you need help, let me know!
Log on and check them out!
Veterans Day
Veterans Day is coming up next week.
In observance of this federal holiday, the entire school campus will be closed on Monday and Tuesday.
My grandfather, uncles, and cousins are veterans. I'm sure many of your family members are too.
During this time, lets pray for all of our vets and continue praying for peace for all our troops, no matter where they are.
If you would like to learn more about veterans day, please click here.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
8th Graders and Firehouse Kidz
No one will forget the story of Marvin the Moth. At least I won't! Thanks to the Jeff & Bev Diltz and the Firehouse Kidz for our spiritual emphasis week. More pictures will be on the website soon!
Weekly Wednesday Letter - November 5th
FROM THE DESK OF MR. MILLER……………………
5 November 2008
Wow! What a jam-packed couple weeks. The student newspaper has more information and pictures of Firehouse Kidz, Harvest Festival, Mock Election and everything else. More pictures will be online soon! Thank you so much to all the parents that have been able to help. Keep the idea’s coming!
FLOAT UPDATE
Thanks to Abigail Meza, we have a concept design and people are hard at work. If you would like to help out, let us know. We are ready to take 1st Place this year!
CHAPEL CHALLENGE
This month’s theme is Gratitude. For the remaining chapels in November & December, all monies will be going to Operation Christmas Child. I have also challenged the entire school to putting together at least 45 boxes. If the 5-8 graders put together more boxes than the K-4th, I will dye my hair: orange, purple, and green. We only have 2 ½ weeks to do this! A sheet with other ideas is on the backside of this letter!
SPORTS REPORT
Our football team played like the true champions they are. I rewarded them with a Pizza Man pizza party on Friday. Volleyball sign ups are now going on. All 5th -8th grade girls are eligible to play. See Coach Jeremy for sign ups!
PTF FUNDRAISER REPORT!
Thanks to the 48 families who went to Carl’s Jr on Monday. We raised over $165 just by eating dinner! Domo Drawing is coming up next week. What’s a Domo, you ask? I don’t know either. Check out the website blog for more details!
REMINDER – NO SCHOOL VETERANS WEEKEND
Remember our veterans. There is no school and no extended care on Monday or Tuesday due to the federal holidays for Veterans Day. The campus is closed on Monday and Tuesday. We’ll see you ready for Chapel on Wednesday, Nov 12th!
Finally – A little political science / election trivia
Two ran for Senator in Illinois. One, an excellent public speaker, was elected. At the next presidential election, his former senator rival ran against him as a Republican for president, while the distinguished Senator ran as the Democratic candidate for President of the United States. To which presidential election am I referring?
Hint: The Democratic Senator lost.
If you answered 1860, you are correct! Stephen Douglas (D) had beat Abraham Lincoln (R) for the 1858 Illinois senate seat, but Honest Abe won the presidential election in 1860!
If you answered 2008, you are close! Barack Obama (D) had beat Alan Keys (R) for the 2004 Illinois Senate seat, and beat him again in yesterday’s presidential election.
With Gratitude,
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
5 November 2008
Wow! What a jam-packed couple weeks. The student newspaper has more information and pictures of Firehouse Kidz, Harvest Festival, Mock Election and everything else. More pictures will be online soon! Thank you so much to all the parents that have been able to help. Keep the idea’s coming!
FLOAT UPDATE
Thanks to Abigail Meza, we have a concept design and people are hard at work. If you would like to help out, let us know. We are ready to take 1st Place this year!
CHAPEL CHALLENGE
This month’s theme is Gratitude. For the remaining chapels in November & December, all monies will be going to Operation Christmas Child. I have also challenged the entire school to putting together at least 45 boxes. If the 5-8 graders put together more boxes than the K-4th, I will dye my hair: orange, purple, and green. We only have 2 ½ weeks to do this! A sheet with other ideas is on the backside of this letter!
SPORTS REPORT
Our football team played like the true champions they are. I rewarded them with a Pizza Man pizza party on Friday. Volleyball sign ups are now going on. All 5th -8th grade girls are eligible to play. See Coach Jeremy for sign ups!
PTF FUNDRAISER REPORT!
Thanks to the 48 families who went to Carl’s Jr on Monday. We raised over $165 just by eating dinner! Domo Drawing is coming up next week. What’s a Domo, you ask? I don’t know either. Check out the website blog for more details!
REMINDER – NO SCHOOL VETERANS WEEKEND
Remember our veterans. There is no school and no extended care on Monday or Tuesday due to the federal holidays for Veterans Day. The campus is closed on Monday and Tuesday. We’ll see you ready for Chapel on Wednesday, Nov 12th!
Finally – A little political science / election trivia
Two ran for Senator in Illinois. One, an excellent public speaker, was elected. At the next presidential election, his former senator rival ran against him as a Republican for president, while the distinguished Senator ran as the Democratic candidate for President of the United States. To which presidential election am I referring?
Hint: The Democratic Senator lost.
If you answered 1860, you are correct! Stephen Douglas (D) had beat Abraham Lincoln (R) for the 1858 Illinois senate seat, but Honest Abe won the presidential election in 1860!
If you answered 2008, you are close! Barack Obama (D) had beat Alan Keys (R) for the 2004 Illinois Senate seat, and beat him again in yesterday’s presidential election.
With Gratitude,
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Carls Jr Fundraiser - All Day on Monday, Nov 3rd
It's time to kick off our Carl's Jr Fundraiser on NOVEMBER 3rd.
Bring in the flyer and get a discount on all your Carl's Jr food all day at the location across from PIH and Home Depot!
Print out as many as you like and give them to family, neighbors and friends!
Thanks for supporting your school!
Friday, October 31, 2008
Parents on Board - New Workshop
Kids don't exactly come with a parenting manual, do they?
We are excited to partner with the Inter Community Counseling Center and make available a 3 session course which will help you learn proven methods that will help your student succeed in school.
The sessions will be held from 7 PM to 8:45 PM at the Counseling Center's Office in Uptown Whittier -- 7702 Washington Ave, Whittier, CA 90602. The sessions will be held November 3, 10, 17. You can call them for more info - 698-1272.
The sessions are free! The only cost is a $16 workbook, which if you attend all 3 sessions, we will reimburse you. This is part of our dedication to helping the whole family create a positive, successful learning environment.
Palm View Christian School - Connecting Families to the Message of Hope through Christian Education
Thursday, October 30, 2008
National Mock Election Updates
Catch Hourly updates as the story unfolds tonight
http://www.youtube.com/mockelection
Palm View voted, did you?
http://www.youtube.com/mockelection
Palm View voted, did you?
We are the Champions!!
Well, they are in my book!
Our players worked hard, didn't give up when they got behind, stayed cool in face of adversity and never quit! While the scoreboard at the end of the game showed a loss of 14-12 and 2nd place in the league, I consider our team true champions! Congratulations!
As I promised a pizza party for our football team if they won, we will have pizza for lunch, tomorrow Friday! -- my treat!
Thanks Coach Jeremy and all the parents and students for making this a great season!
Our players worked hard, didn't give up when they got behind, stayed cool in face of adversity and never quit! While the scoreboard at the end of the game showed a loss of 14-12 and 2nd place in the league, I consider our team true champions! Congratulations!
As I promised a pizza party for our football team if they won, we will have pizza for lunch, tomorrow Friday! -- my treat!
Thanks Coach Jeremy and all the parents and students for making this a great season!
National Mock Election 2008
Today, the students voted! Thanks to the Garcia's, the kidzone room was transformed into a polling place, complete with booths, privacy curtains, and I Voted! stickers.
Our students have welcomed Dianne Lenning (R-39th District candidate), Jan Baird (D - DNC Convention delegate and Obama supporter) and Robert Baird (aide for Tony Mendoza (D) Norwalk.
Each student had the chance to vote in the computerzied national election. The results from across the country will be released tonight and a link will be posted here.
Click here ff you want to learn more about the National Mock Election! Look for the results tomorrow!
By the way, our paper ballot revealed that the voting leaned towards Obama over McCain -- 28 - 8.
Remind your parents to VOTE - on Tuesday, Novemember 4!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME - 3:30 PM WED, OCTOBER 29TH
The Palm View Lions are ready to defend their title!
Due to a scheduling conflict, the championship game has been moved up to tomorrow! --
It will be held at Lakeland School field at 3:30.
All school dismissal will be early at 2:45 so that as many people as possibile can cheer on our team as we defeat Montebello!
Accreditation Update
Palm View has been offering an excellent education for over 24 years to the people in the Whittier / Pico Rivera community. We announced two years ago that we wanted to begin the accreditation process as part of our five year long term plan. Every decision that has been made during the last few years as filtered through what we need to successfully undergo this process.
What is accreditation? It's comprised of an intensive self study and a review by educators not involved in the local school. This way, we can see if we meet the standards that to which excellent schools are held. After reviewing the requirements, we believe that we can successfully begin the journey as the pieces are nearly complete.
Last Thursday, Mrs. Centmeyer and I attended an ACSI conference for those beginning the process. During the next year, we will be continue to attend meetings, develop committees of students, parents and teachers, and create our self study. Our target date is set for Spring of 2011.
We have decided to do the most comprehensive accreditation process -- a joint early education (preschool) through 8th grade for both ACSI and WASC. This daunting self analysis will guarantee that our missions and goals are carried out from the very first moment a young preschooler begins, all the way through 8th grade. The dual accreditation stamp also allows us both a Christian and a secular endorsement.
We are looking forward to this process. Together, we can accomplish great things!
Monday, October 27, 2008
Palm View Times - October 23
Sorry for the delay, but the scanner broke!
Here is the student newspaper for October 23rd, 2008. Enjoy!
Here is the student newspaper for October 23rd, 2008. Enjoy!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Carl's Jr Fundraiser - November 3rd.
It's time to kick off our Carl's Jr Fundraiser on NOVEMBER 3rd.
Bring in the flyer and get a discount on all your Carl's Jr food all day at the location across from PIH and Home Depot!
Print out as many as you like and give them to family, neighbors and friends!
Thanks for supporting your school!
Weekly Update - October 23
PDF Version
Have you seen red ribbons, the posters, and the pledges? The best slogan I saw was “I’d rather eat bugs than say yes to drugs!” Good job students! Be DETERMINED to stay focused on school, and make wise choices.
Donuts with Dad! – Success!
It was great to see so many dads, uncles, grandparents, and older siblings come to the Donuts with Dad. Believe it or not, we had donuts left over!
ANNOUNCING!
SCHOOL WIDE DESIGN CONTEST
The theme for this years Whittier Christmas parade float is Serving our Community. We are asking all students to brainstorm and sketch ideas for what they think the float should look like and students should wear. The winners will ride on the float. (otherwise, you get to walk….) Start Sketching! Contest ends in 1 week!
$1 FREE DRESS DAYS – Student council Fundraiser
Don’t forget! Tomorrow (Friday, October 24th, and Tuesday, (October 28th) are free dress days if you bring $1. Otherwise, please wear your uniform. The student council reps will collect the money and are planning some great events!
Spiritual Emphasis Week (Redux)
Next week, after a 2 week delay, we welcome FirehouseKidz for a special chapel on Wednesday 10 AM, Wednesday night 7 PM, and again on Thursday at 10 AM. Do NOT wear chapel uniforms next week. Wear a regular uniform.
Friday, October 31st
This year, we get to dress up for school. But here are the rules: Costumes must be from books, and you must bring that book to school with you! No scary, gory costumes. No costumes that deal with evil, witches, or the like. If you aren’t sure it’s appropriate, ask me. We reserve the right to send anybody home if necessary.
Harvest Festival
We finish the week strong with the Harvest Festival from 6 PM – 9 PM. There will be booths, candy, games, candy, food, candy, pies in the face, candy, a jail, candy, a cake walk, and candy. Did I mention there will be candy? Invite your neighbors and friends. This event is open to everyone and anyone!
With Determination,
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Red Ribbon Week
It's Red Ribbon Week!
To help remind our kids to say No! to illegal drugs and to be cautious around prescription ones, we are making posters, wearing ribbons and on TUESDAY - wearing a red shirt!
Just an update --
Friday is a Student Council sponsored Dollar Free Dress Day -- bring $1 and you do not have to be in uniform. Remember - free dress still means to dress neatly and responsibly with not offensive logos. Middle School students: If you aren't sure, ask first!
Friday, October 17, 2008
Political Series Speakers - Jan Baird photo
Here are our 8th graders with Jan Baird (South Whittier School District Board Member and DNC delegate) and Robert Baird --aide to Assemblyman Tony Mendoza (D).
Since we just posted the picture of Diane Lenning (R) candidate for 39th congressional district, we wanted to make sure everyone saw this too!
Thanks again to everyone for helping educate our students about the American political process!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Weekly Letter - October 16th
FROM THE DESK OF MR. MILLER……………………
16 October 2008
By now, most of you have probably read the student newspaper and seen a lot of the information updates; or you have read the updated website. Do you realize that in 16 days of October, there have been 27 updated articles on the website? More information appears there than what I can get in here. Congratulations to the art students whose work appears online. My scanner broke down half way through and I could not post all students work. My apologies if yours is not yet online!
It has been a good, yet busy week. We have postponed the Firehouse Kidz Spiritual Emphasis week until later, in part due to the wild fires in California. (Yes, they do have operating engine trucks!). The Scholastic Book Fair has been successful. But don’t forget:
Donuts with Dad! – Tomorrow!
Donuts with Dad begins at 7 AM and ends at 8:30. Spend a few minutes or the whole time with your student. Pictures will be available for a minimal cost!
Red Ribbon Week begins on Monday. On Tuesday, we are asking every student to wear a RED shirt / T-shirt (no offensive logos please) to help celebrate Red Ribbon Week.
16 October 2008
By now, most of you have probably read the student newspaper and seen a lot of the information updates; or you have read the updated website. Do you realize that in 16 days of October, there have been 27 updated articles on the website? More information appears there than what I can get in here. Congratulations to the art students whose work appears online. My scanner broke down half way through and I could not post all students work. My apologies if yours is not yet online!
It has been a good, yet busy week. We have postponed the Firehouse Kidz Spiritual Emphasis week until later, in part due to the wild fires in California. (Yes, they do have operating engine trucks!). The Scholastic Book Fair has been successful. But don’t forget:
Donuts with Dad! – Tomorrow!
Donuts with Dad begins at 7 AM and ends at 8:30. Spend a few minutes or the whole time with your student. Pictures will be available for a minimal cost!
Red Ribbon Week begins on Monday. On Tuesday, we are asking every student to wear a RED shirt / T-shirt (no offensive logos please) to help celebrate Red Ribbon Week.
ANNOUNCING!
SCHOOL WIDE DESIGN CONTEST
The theme for this years Whittier Christmas parade float is Serving our Community. We are asking all students to brainstorm and sketch ideas for what they think the float should look like and students should wear. The winners will ride on the float. (otherwise, you get to walk….) Start Sketching! Contest ends in 2 weeks!
EPILOGUE
Congratulations to Julia Garcia, who came in 7th individual place for JBQ in Bakersfield. Next stop – Victorville!
With Determination,
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
Conceptual Frameworks and Your Student
In my years of experience as a HR professional, I often had the opportunities to take new employees and direct them into positions that best fit what they had learned and could achieve. The critical difference between employees I interviewed for lead or managerial positions and line worker positions were their critical thinking skills and conceptual frameworks.
In my years studying educational theory since then, we've recognized that how we teach our students from the earliest age affects how they think and the job opportunities they will be presented. An article the current issue of The Kappan (the national educational journal of PDK) examined the discrepancies between high school success and collegiate success. Much of it came down to conceptual frameworks and critical thinking skills.
As educators we are committed to best practices within a Christian worldview. Our recent changes in curriculum are in pursuit of this goal.
Another recent study with pre-schoolers supported this idea. It's critique can also apply to elementary educators. That article continues below:
Too often we give our children answers to remember rather than problems to solve.Roger Lewin
Early Developments (Summer 2008), reported on a wide range of findings coming out of the National Center for Early Development and Learning Multi-State Study of Pre-Kindergarten (NCEDL). One analysis of the findings focused on the usefulness of process versus structural measures in evaluating quality. Here is what was found..."Using data from the NCEDL study, researchers compared the benefits of policies that defined the quality of pre-kindergarten programs by either structural or process features.... Structural features included characteristics such as class size, teacher:child ratios, and levels of teacher education. Process features were defined as 'observable social and instructional interactions that children experience directly with teachers in the classroom.'"They found that none of the recommended minimum standards of structural quality were directly related to children's development of receptive language (words they understood), expressive language (words they were able to use), rhyming, problem solving, letter naming, or behavior. Yet each dimension of process quality examined was associated with at least one area of development. Children learned best when teachers' interactions promoted conceptual development and offered feedback on children's learning. Children showed considerably larger gains in language and social development when they experienced higher quality instruction or more responsive and sensitive interactions with the teacher."These findings suggest that state-funded pre-kindergarten programs and policies should not rely on structural features alone to promote development. High quality interactions between teachers and children are the active ingredient through which pre-K programs foster the academic, language, and social competencies of children. In fact, the evidence suggests that when state policy only focuses on structural features, pre-kindergarten programs may fall short of their potential for facilitating children's development."
In my years studying educational theory since then, we've recognized that how we teach our students from the earliest age affects how they think and the job opportunities they will be presented. An article the current issue of The Kappan (the national educational journal of PDK) examined the discrepancies between high school success and collegiate success. Much of it came down to conceptual frameworks and critical thinking skills.
As educators we are committed to best practices within a Christian worldview. Our recent changes in curriculum are in pursuit of this goal.
Another recent study with pre-schoolers supported this idea. It's critique can also apply to elementary educators. That article continues below:
Too often we give our children answers to remember rather than problems to solve.Roger Lewin
Early Developments (Summer 2008), reported on a wide range of findings coming out of the National Center for Early Development and Learning Multi-State Study of Pre-Kindergarten (NCEDL). One analysis of the findings focused on the usefulness of process versus structural measures in evaluating quality. Here is what was found..."Using data from the NCEDL study, researchers compared the benefits of policies that defined the quality of pre-kindergarten programs by either structural or process features.... Structural features included characteristics such as class size, teacher:child ratios, and levels of teacher education. Process features were defined as 'observable social and instructional interactions that children experience directly with teachers in the classroom.'"They found that none of the recommended minimum standards of structural quality were directly related to children's development of receptive language (words they understood), expressive language (words they were able to use), rhyming, problem solving, letter naming, or behavior. Yet each dimension of process quality examined was associated with at least one area of development. Children learned best when teachers' interactions promoted conceptual development and offered feedback on children's learning. Children showed considerably larger gains in language and social development when they experienced higher quality instruction or more responsive and sensitive interactions with the teacher."These findings suggest that state-funded pre-kindergarten programs and policies should not rely on structural features alone to promote development. High quality interactions between teachers and children are the active ingredient through which pre-K programs foster the academic, language, and social competencies of children. In fact, the evidence suggests that when state policy only focuses on structural features, pre-kindergarten programs may fall short of their potential for facilitating children's development."
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
PTF NEEDS VOLUNTEERS
Yep, that's right! To make things successful, we must have volunteers!
A lot of events are coming around the corner -- Harvest Festival, Thanks Giving Feast, Christmas Parade, Donuts with Dad...
Email the PTF, the office, or fill out this form and bring it on in!
A lot of events are coming around the corner -- Harvest Festival, Thanks Giving Feast, Christmas Parade, Donuts with Dad...
Email the PTF, the office, or fill out this form and bring it on in!
Thank you, Diane Lenning!
The 5th - 8th graders welcomed Diane Lenning (R) today as our Political Speaker Series continued. As a former teacher in the area, national educational represenative and a previous candidate for California Superintendent of Public Instruction, she is currently running against the incumbent Linda Sanchez (D) for the 39th Congressional District.
She spent time briefly discussing her positions on items, on how the role of women has changed in politics, educational issues. She also discussed the three branches of government (legislative, judicial, and executive) and the electoral college.
In just 2 weeks, our students will be participating in the national mock election. Our speaker series has also included Jan Baird, a South Whittier School Board Member and delegate to the DNC and Robert Baird, an aide to California Assemblyman Tony Mendoza (D)
Please continue praying for the family of Linda Sanchez, as her brother recently passed away.
Palm View Christian School uses this series as education and does not endorse any candidate.
Att: Pre-School Parents
We need your input!
The Parents Teachers and Friends of Palm View is a separate fundraising and parent organization from the school. Please join with everyone to help make Palm View the premier educational place in Whittier from early ed through 8th grade.
Membership includes a yearbook. For more info, see the preschool representative or the school office.
The Parents Teachers and Friends of Palm View is a separate fundraising and parent organization from the school. Please join with everyone to help make Palm View the premier educational place in Whittier from early ed through 8th grade.
Membership includes a yearbook. For more info, see the preschool representative or the school office.
PTF Meeting Update
Thank you to everyone that came out last night for the PTF meeting. The minutes will be available on the website later, but here are the highlights.
1) The Fundraiser went well -- Great job. Congratulations to the 1st Grade (top class), Mrs. Sifuentes, Chance (highest overall) and 6th grade (highest participation) . We expect to have made about $2500.
2) Donuts with Dad is this Friday -- Come one, come All! The event is from 7 - 8:30. Mr. Sosa will be taking pictures. The them this year is Sport! Don't miss out!
3) The Christmas Parade this year is on December 13th. Beginning today, all student are welcome to sketch ideas for what they want the float to look like. The theme is "Serving our Community" Get creative! Mark down November 1st at 2 PM for a float theme/design meeting. We need builders, engineers, and creative types!
4) Our next fundraiser starts on November 3rd at Carl's Jr (the PIH/Home Depot location). We will be selling $5 Carl's Jr books, perfect for stocking stuffers and quick snacks.
5) Don't forget -- Harvest Festival is around the corner. Friday, October 31st - from 6 - 9 is a safe place to bring your kids and your neighbors kids. We need parents to sign up and volunteer!
Thank you so much for your support (and the tacos!)
Mr. Miller
4)
1) The Fundraiser went well -- Great job. Congratulations to the 1st Grade (top class), Mrs. Sifuentes, Chance (highest overall) and 6th grade (highest participation) . We expect to have made about $2500.
2) Donuts with Dad is this Friday -- Come one, come All! The event is from 7 - 8:30. Mr. Sosa will be taking pictures. The them this year is Sport! Don't miss out!
3) The Christmas Parade this year is on December 13th. Beginning today, all student are welcome to sketch ideas for what they want the float to look like. The theme is "Serving our Community" Get creative! Mark down November 1st at 2 PM for a float theme/design meeting. We need builders, engineers, and creative types!
4) Our next fundraiser starts on November 3rd at Carl's Jr (the PIH/Home Depot location). We will be selling $5 Carl's Jr books, perfect for stocking stuffers and quick snacks.
5) Don't forget -- Harvest Festival is around the corner. Friday, October 31st - from 6 - 9 is a safe place to bring your kids and your neighbors kids. We need parents to sign up and volunteer!
Thank you so much for your support (and the tacos!)
Mr. Miller
4)
Monday, October 13, 2008
Music Academy Update
We are still looking for additional students to sign up for Music Academy lessons. Only 7 people signed up, which is too few for a class -- we must have 10 total students.
If you would like to take piano or guitar lessons at Palm View this fall, please let the office know.
If we do not receive additional interest for lessons this fall, we will try again in January. You may also take lessons at the Music Academy's Whittier location.
If you would like to take piano or guitar lessons at Palm View this fall, please let the office know.
If we do not receive additional interest for lessons this fall, we will try again in January. You may also take lessons at the Music Academy's Whittier location.
Math Questions
If you are like most parents, when it comes to helping your child learn math, it's a chore.
Math can be fun. There are also more math aids out there than there used to be.
The Math curriculum we use at Palm View (ACSI - K-5 and Prentice Hall 6-8) both meet national NCTM standards as well as California state standards. Both Mr. Santos (5&6) and myself (Mr. Miller, 7 &8) have taught math for a number of years, taken required California credential classes, and engage in ongoing professional development in math. Furthermore, we both have worked in applied mathematical fields (engineering / computer programming/finance).
When I took my teaching of math class a number of years ago, I was surprised to learn how much had changed then when I had gone to school in the late 1970's. Mathematics is the science of pattern and design. When I had been taught to borrow and carry when subtracting, my teachers were now telling me to regroup. While at first it seemed like a minor change in terminology, I soon saw the conceptual basis that differed, and the resulting amount of less incorrect answers.
As technology has ever increased, so we have learned how to teach better.
Give me a 6th grade student that can rattle off memorized multiplication tables through 15 (and show them to me with manipulatives) and be creative with shapes (K-nex, Legos, symmetrical and asymmetrical patterns) and the rest is simple patterns reflected in formulas. To paraphrase the good cook from Ratatouille, "Anyone can do well in math!"
Don't forget that 6-8th graders have web codes and helps on the Prentice Hall website.
If you have questions about your student's math progress, no matter what grade, you may consult with either Mr. Santos or myself.
Mr. Miller's Math Blog
Math can be fun. There are also more math aids out there than there used to be.
The Math curriculum we use at Palm View (ACSI - K-5 and Prentice Hall 6-8) both meet national NCTM standards as well as California state standards. Both Mr. Santos (5&6) and myself (Mr. Miller, 7 &8) have taught math for a number of years, taken required California credential classes, and engage in ongoing professional development in math. Furthermore, we both have worked in applied mathematical fields (engineering / computer programming/finance).
When I took my teaching of math class a number of years ago, I was surprised to learn how much had changed then when I had gone to school in the late 1970's. Mathematics is the science of pattern and design. When I had been taught to borrow and carry when subtracting, my teachers were now telling me to regroup. While at first it seemed like a minor change in terminology, I soon saw the conceptual basis that differed, and the resulting amount of less incorrect answers.
As technology has ever increased, so we have learned how to teach better.
Give me a 6th grade student that can rattle off memorized multiplication tables through 15 (and show them to me with manipulatives) and be creative with shapes (K-nex, Legos, symmetrical and asymmetrical patterns) and the rest is simple patterns reflected in formulas. To paraphrase the good cook from Ratatouille, "Anyone can do well in math!"
Don't forget that 6-8th graders have web codes and helps on the Prentice Hall website.
If you have questions about your student's math progress, no matter what grade, you may consult with either Mr. Santos or myself.
Mr. Miller's Math Blog
Super Chess Saturday
This Saturday, all chess students are invited to join the SUPER CHESS SATURDAY one day instructional tournament event.
When: Saturday, October 18th 9am-2pm
Where: Azusa Pacific University*Cost: $40
Super Saturday! is a day of chess for students of all ages and skill levels. While the priority is learning chess, we do everything we can to make sure that learning is coupled with having fun.
*Super Saturday! is located at the West Campus of the University: 701 E. Foothill Blvd. Azusa, CA 91702
Price: $40.00
Registration
This is not an official school sponsored event, so transportation must be arranged individually. Students can participate, even if they are not part of Palm View.
When: Saturday, October 18th 9am-2pm
Where: Azusa Pacific University*Cost: $40
Super Saturday! is a day of chess for students of all ages and skill levels. While the priority is learning chess, we do everything we can to make sure that learning is coupled with having fun.
*Super Saturday! is located at the West Campus of the University: 701 E. Foothill Blvd. Azusa, CA 91702
Price: $40.00
Registration
This is not an official school sponsored event, so transportation must be arranged individually. Students can participate, even if they are not part of Palm View.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
JBQ Update
Congratulations to the JBQ team on a well done job. The meet was held in Bakersfield, CA. Our team of Julia Garcia (captain), Jonathan Padilla, Marissa Miller, Julia Marti, Megan Tutorow, and Gabriel Garcia did well.
Congratulations especially to Julia Garcia, for coming in 7th place in the overall individual category.
Well done! The next meet is in Victorville on November 8! It's not too late to join!
Congratulations especially to Julia Garcia, for coming in 7th place in the overall individual category.
Well done! The next meet is in Victorville on November 8! It's not too late to join!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Overcoming Anxiety and Worry
This week set a 112 year old record for the amount lost in the Dow Jones Industrial Average. Many people are naturally worried.
In the attached document and video, Dr. George Wood, the general superintendent of the American Assemblies of God gives a special message from the Sermon on the Mount. Dr. Wood was our guest here at Palm View just two years ago.
As we turn to God and grow ever more dependent on him, we find his riches and his glory. Remember, Nothing is too Hard for God!
Be refreshed...
Overcoming Anxiety and Worry (.pdf)
video
In the attached document and video, Dr. George Wood, the general superintendent of the American Assemblies of God gives a special message from the Sermon on the Mount. Dr. Wood was our guest here at Palm View just two years ago.
As we turn to God and grow ever more dependent on him, we find his riches and his glory. Remember, Nothing is too Hard for God!
Be refreshed...
Overcoming Anxiety and Worry (.pdf)
video
Political Speaker Series Continues
Last month, the 5th - 8th graders had the privledge of hearing Jan Baird , a DNC delegate and local elected official, and her son, Robert Baird, a legislative analyst for State Assemblyman Tony Mendoza.
Our series continues, with Diane Lenning, the Republican candidate for the 39th Congressional District. A career educator, with many years of service in Whittier and at Fred C. Nelles, she will be speaking to our students on Wednesday, October 15th at 12:30. Parents are always welcome at these events.
As usual, Palm View does not endorse any candidate or political party, but is grateful that our local representatives are able to present their perspectives with our students.
Finally, we wish to express our sincere condolences to the current 39th Congresswomen, Linda Sanchez, who recently lost her brother in a boating accident. May the peace of Christ be with their family at this time.
Our series continues, with Diane Lenning, the Republican candidate for the 39th Congressional District. A career educator, with many years of service in Whittier and at Fred C. Nelles, she will be speaking to our students on Wednesday, October 15th at 12:30. Parents are always welcome at these events.
As usual, Palm View does not endorse any candidate or political party, but is grateful that our local representatives are able to present their perspectives with our students.
Finally, we wish to express our sincere condolences to the current 39th Congresswomen, Linda Sanchez, who recently lost her brother in a boating accident. May the peace of Christ be with their family at this time.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Do You Like to Read?
Let's face it. Reading is one major skills that we must have, yet some don't like to do. Literacy and success in later schooling comes by focusing on reading. One of the primary reasons we have switched to the Houghton Mifflin Language Arts and Reading program this year is because of the lingering negative affects of ABEKA on reading and language development. While phonics were initially strong, little progress was made past the 3rd grade and reading comprehension declined, as fundamental building blocks were missing.
While it may seem that some of what we are doing is simplistic again this year, especially in Kinder & 1st, we are refocusing on simple phonemic awareness, combined with critical thinking skills. The idea is to make future reading less of a struggle and enjoyable by all.
If you would like to find out more about our new reading program, click on this link here.
Remember, our strategies only work if regular reading is built into the normal life at home. Visit the Scholastic book Fair, participate in BookIt!, visit a childrens book store, or check out a book from our library.
One of the best children's book store in the LA area is Children's Book World. As librarians say, CHECK IT OUT!
While it may seem that some of what we are doing is simplistic again this year, especially in Kinder & 1st, we are refocusing on simple phonemic awareness, combined with critical thinking skills. The idea is to make future reading less of a struggle and enjoyable by all.
If you would like to find out more about our new reading program, click on this link here.
Remember, our strategies only work if regular reading is built into the normal life at home. Visit the Scholastic book Fair, participate in BookIt!, visit a childrens book store, or check out a book from our library.
One of the best children's book store in the LA area is Children's Book World. As librarians say, CHECK IT OUT!
Kidzone Phone Extention 223
We have now put in phone lines and computer lines in the Kidzone / Daycare room.
You may call the school and reach the room directly, by dialing extension 223 once you hear the greeting. If you are running late, please contact Linda in that room.
Remember, all students (all grades) who arrive before 7:40 AM must check to be supervised. Unsupervised children who are not checked in will be charged double the rate. It is the responsibility of parents to check in their students each morning.
All students (all grades) must be checked into the extended care program by 3:15 each afternoon unless they are participating in an official sanctioned school / church program.
If you have any questions, please contact the office.
You may call the school and reach the room directly, by dialing extension 223 once you hear the greeting. If you are running late, please contact Linda in that room.
Remember, all students (all grades) who arrive before 7:40 AM must check to be supervised. Unsupervised children who are not checked in will be charged double the rate. It is the responsibility of parents to check in their students each morning.
All students (all grades) must be checked into the extended care program by 3:15 each afternoon unless they are participating in an official sanctioned school / church program.
If you have any questions, please contact the office.
Great Shake Out Update - Whittier Daily News October 8
Caltech team mulls quake worst-case scenario
Major quake could cut arteries into city
By Dan Abendschein, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 10/08/2008 10:04:45 PM PDT
THE SHAKE UP: Jerry Treiman of the California Geological Society talks about the damage a large earthquake could create. (Eric Reed/Staff Photographer)
CAJON PASS - A 7.8 magnitude quake rips out of the Coachella Valley, heads west along the San Andreas Fault, severs powers lines, cuts a hole in the 15 Freeway, and knocks out rail tracks - leaving Southern California isolated from the rest of the West Coast.
That is the scenario that a group of Caltech geologists will be studying next month as part of an quake drill - the Great Southern California Shakeout - that will simulate how authorities will respond to the massive earthquake they say is likely to hit the region sometime in the next 30 years.
A major focal point of concern is the Cajon Pass, the 4,500-foot saddle between the massive San Bernardino and San Gabriel Mountains, officials said Wednesday.
Speaking from directly on top of the San Andreas fault line in the pass, near an open desert vista crossed by rail lines, power transformers and the nearby freeway, Lucy Jones, the chief scientist at Caltech's earthquake center, laid out what the infrastructure destruction could mean for Los Angeles County.
Power transformers, rail lines, the 15 freeway, oil pipelines and fiber-optic cables all run through the Cajon Pass, one of the few low passes in the mountains to the north and east of Los Angeles County that infrastructure can easily pass through.
The area could be without power for days, or in some cases weeks, Jones said. People on the other side of the pass, in the Victorville area, could be isolated from Los Angeles if the 15 Freeway was breached, she added.
"Most of our lifeline crossings, infrastructure come through the Cajon Pass," said Dale Cox, a government geologist. "And all of them will sever in a quake of that magnitude."
The county's economy could suffer a hit of around $200 billion as shippers struggle to find a way to get goods out of the Long Beach port, said Jones.
The area would not suffer immediate gas shortages, since much of the West Coast's gas is refined in Los Angeles County. But natural gas pipelines that provide gas to homes would likely be severed, resulting in massive shortages, she added.
Parts of the 210 and 10 freeways in the San Gabriel Valley could also collapse, said Caltrans spokesman Ken Matsuoka. Or, short of that, landslide debris could cover sections of freeway, shutting them down for several days as crews work to clear them out.
Though the worst impact of the quake in the scenario would be to the San Bernardino area, the quake would also cause direct damage to the San Gabriel Valley, knocking down structurally unsound buildings and cutting water pipe lines. Homes would be left without fresh water, said Jones.
Fires caused by the quake would be the biggest concern, she said. "There simply would not be enough firefighters to put out all the fires that were blazing all over the county," said Jones.
The scenario estimates about 53,000 injuries requiring emergency room assistance - far too many for hospitals to handle, she added.
Scientists have also estimated that one in 16 buildings in the county would suffer serious damage in a 7.8 magnitude quake along the San Andreas fault line.
The Cajon Pass scenario, however, is only one possibility: A major quake could rupture along another fault line, although that would mean less damage to the critical Cajon Pass area.
Additionally, the quake could come from the northern direction of the fault line, rather than the Coachella Valley to the south-east of Los Angeles, said Jones.
That quake could have more of an impact on the San Gabriel Valley, though it could be less dangerous to the county as a whole, since it would not hit the Cajon Pass as hard, she said.
The best thing residents can do to prepare, said Jay Alan of the state Office of Homeland Security, is to be prepared to survive on their own for several days. That means having drinking water, food, a fire extinguisher and first aid kit - at minimum, he added.
"Taking care of yourself for 72 hours should be your goal," said Alan. "If you can do that, you will be helping your community and helping first responders by allowing them to deal with people in serious trouble."
To participate in the Great Southern California Shakeout on Nov. 13, go on line and visit www.ShakeOut.org.
dan.abendschein@sgvn.com
(626) 962-8811, Ext. 4451
Major quake could cut arteries into city
By Dan Abendschein, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 10/08/2008 10:04:45 PM PDT
THE SHAKE UP: Jerry Treiman of the California Geological Society talks about the damage a large earthquake could create. (Eric Reed/Staff Photographer)
CAJON PASS - A 7.8 magnitude quake rips out of the Coachella Valley, heads west along the San Andreas Fault, severs powers lines, cuts a hole in the 15 Freeway, and knocks out rail tracks - leaving Southern California isolated from the rest of the West Coast.
That is the scenario that a group of Caltech geologists will be studying next month as part of an quake drill - the Great Southern California Shakeout - that will simulate how authorities will respond to the massive earthquake they say is likely to hit the region sometime in the next 30 years.
A major focal point of concern is the Cajon Pass, the 4,500-foot saddle between the massive San Bernardino and San Gabriel Mountains, officials said Wednesday.
Speaking from directly on top of the San Andreas fault line in the pass, near an open desert vista crossed by rail lines, power transformers and the nearby freeway, Lucy Jones, the chief scientist at Caltech's earthquake center, laid out what the infrastructure destruction could mean for Los Angeles County.
Power transformers, rail lines, the 15 freeway, oil pipelines and fiber-optic cables all run through the Cajon Pass, one of the few low passes in the mountains to the north and east of Los Angeles County that infrastructure can easily pass through.
The area could be without power for days, or in some cases weeks, Jones said. People on the other side of the pass, in the Victorville area, could be isolated from Los Angeles if the 15 Freeway was breached, she added.
"Most of our lifeline crossings, infrastructure come through the Cajon Pass," said Dale Cox, a government geologist. "And all of them will sever in a quake of that magnitude."
The county's economy could suffer a hit of around $200 billion as shippers struggle to find a way to get goods out of the Long Beach port, said Jones.
The area would not suffer immediate gas shortages, since much of the West Coast's gas is refined in Los Angeles County. But natural gas pipelines that provide gas to homes would likely be severed, resulting in massive shortages, she added.
Parts of the 210 and 10 freeways in the San Gabriel Valley could also collapse, said Caltrans spokesman Ken Matsuoka. Or, short of that, landslide debris could cover sections of freeway, shutting them down for several days as crews work to clear them out.
Though the worst impact of the quake in the scenario would be to the San Bernardino area, the quake would also cause direct damage to the San Gabriel Valley, knocking down structurally unsound buildings and cutting water pipe lines. Homes would be left without fresh water, said Jones.
Fires caused by the quake would be the biggest concern, she said. "There simply would not be enough firefighters to put out all the fires that were blazing all over the county," said Jones.
The scenario estimates about 53,000 injuries requiring emergency room assistance - far too many for hospitals to handle, she added.
Scientists have also estimated that one in 16 buildings in the county would suffer serious damage in a 7.8 magnitude quake along the San Andreas fault line.
The Cajon Pass scenario, however, is only one possibility: A major quake could rupture along another fault line, although that would mean less damage to the critical Cajon Pass area.
Additionally, the quake could come from the northern direction of the fault line, rather than the Coachella Valley to the south-east of Los Angeles, said Jones.
That quake could have more of an impact on the San Gabriel Valley, though it could be less dangerous to the county as a whole, since it would not hit the Cajon Pass as hard, she said.
The best thing residents can do to prepare, said Jay Alan of the state Office of Homeland Security, is to be prepared to survive on their own for several days. That means having drinking water, food, a fire extinguisher and first aid kit - at minimum, he added.
"Taking care of yourself for 72 hours should be your goal," said Alan. "If you can do that, you will be helping your community and helping first responders by allowing them to deal with people in serious trouble."
To participate in the Great Southern California Shakeout on Nov. 13, go on line and visit www.ShakeOut.org.
dan.abendschein@sgvn.com
(626) 962-8811, Ext. 4451
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
What About a Return to Decency and Manners?
Ken Smitherman is the President of ACSI. His monthly letter is attached. This month he explores how parents can work together with the school to help develop young men and women of character.
Christian School Comment - October 2008
Christian School Comment - October 2008
Weekly Wednesday Letter October 8
8 October 2008
Determination --deciding it’s worth it to finish what you started. Noah was determined to complete the Ark, even though it took decades. Ask your student what animal they were!
It’s a slow week this week. That’s good, because next week begins the…
SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR!
And, yes, the PTF would like your help. The book fair is on October 13-17 and will be open from 7:30 am to 8:00 am and 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm. Contact Maria Rios via PVCSchoolPTF@aol.com or the school office.
Doughnuts with Dad will be on Friday, October 17. We begin at 7:00 and end by 8:30. This is a great time for dads and grandfathers to have breakfast with their kids and meet other parents.
PTF ENROLLMENT
Come to the next PTF meeting, Tuesday, October 14th at 6:30 PM. If you can’t make it then, we are working on an after school time too. Email me your ideas and suggestions. Join the PTF today, pre-order a yearbook and save!
SPIRITUAL EMPHASIS CHAPELS WITH FIREHOUSE KIDZ
Firehouse Kidz will be doing a series of chapels with us next week. Because its interactive, you will NOT need to wear a chapel uniform next week, but regular school uniform.
EPILOGUE
The JBQ team will be traveling to Bakersfield this Saturday for the first competition of the year. The football team has been doing AWESOME under Coach Jeremy. Keep it up, and stay DETERMINED!
With Determination,
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
Determination --deciding it’s worth it to finish what you started. Noah was determined to complete the Ark, even though it took decades. Ask your student what animal they were!
It’s a slow week this week. That’s good, because next week begins the…
SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR!
And, yes, the PTF would like your help. The book fair is on October 13-17 and will be open from 7:30 am to 8:00 am and 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm. Contact Maria Rios via PVCSchoolPTF@aol.com or the school office.
Doughnuts with Dad will be on Friday, October 17. We begin at 7:00 and end by 8:30. This is a great time for dads and grandfathers to have breakfast with their kids and meet other parents.
PTF ENROLLMENT
Come to the next PTF meeting, Tuesday, October 14th at 6:30 PM. If you can’t make it then, we are working on an after school time too. Email me your ideas and suggestions. Join the PTF today, pre-order a yearbook and save!
SPIRITUAL EMPHASIS CHAPELS WITH FIREHOUSE KIDZ
Firehouse Kidz will be doing a series of chapels with us next week. Because its interactive, you will NOT need to wear a chapel uniform next week, but regular school uniform.
EPILOGUE
The JBQ team will be traveling to Bakersfield this Saturday for the first competition of the year. The football team has been doing AWESOME under Coach Jeremy. Keep it up, and stay DETERMINED!
With Determination,
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
Scholastic Book Fair
Its time for a week focused on reading. The PTF needs your help. From Monday Oct 13 - 17, the Scholastic Book Fair will be open from 7:30 am to 8:00 am and 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm
Volunteers Needed contact Maria Rios via PVCSchoolPTF@aol.com or call the school office.
Volunteers Needed contact Maria Rios via PVCSchoolPTF@aol.com or call the school office.
Pictures Needed!
Flash! Blinding Light, preceded by red blinks. Yes, there are photos out there! I've seen you take them.
WE WANT THEM!
Help us get photos for the web page, the student newspaper, and the yearbook. If you've taken pictures, email them, put them on a disk and turn them in!
Thanks!
WE WANT THEM!
Help us get photos for the web page, the student newspaper, and the yearbook. If you've taken pictures, email them, put them on a disk and turn them in!
Thanks!
Monday, October 6, 2008
White House Report on Faith Based Schools
The growing trend of closing Christian schools in urban neighborhoods is at crisis levels, a recent White House report states. At Palm View, we have watched as fellow schools have closed around us. We remain the highest enrolled, most affordable Christian school PK-8 in the area. The attached 176 page report (some of you may enjoy it!) highlights the problem and sets forward several solutions.
From the Department of Education:
Last week, the White House released an important report on a mounting educational challenge affecting underserved students in America's cities: the rapid closure of faith-based urban schools. Preserving a Critical National Asset: America’s Disadvantaged Students and the Crisis on Faith-Based Urban Schools. The report serves as a follow up to the White House Summit on Inner-City Children and Faith-Based Schools, which occurred in April 2008. At the Summit, President Bush brought together educators, policymakers, community leaders, and others to develop strategies helping to preserve these valuable educational institutions.
In a statement made on Friday, the White House highlighted the significance of the problem. “[I]nner-city faith-based schools have helped educate generations of low-income American students. Yet, between the 1999-2000 and 2005-06 school years, the Nation lost nearly 1,200 of these faith-based schools, and those remaining had nearly 425,000 fewer students.”
Report Overview
In the statement announcing the report, the White House stated, “The [White House] report chronicles the historical role of faith-based schools in America;particularly their service of low-income, urban populations—explains the caused of their rapid disappearance, and, most importantly, offers recommendations for reversing this dangerous trend. The White House believes that State and local governments, philanthropists, higher education institutions, educational entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders that take up these recommendations can help keep the doors of inner-city faith based schools open to America's disadvantaged students.”
Back to Top
From the Department of Education:
Last week, the White House released an important report on a mounting educational challenge affecting underserved students in America's cities: the rapid closure of faith-based urban schools. Preserving a Critical National Asset: America’s Disadvantaged Students and the Crisis on Faith-Based Urban Schools. The report serves as a follow up to the White House Summit on Inner-City Children and Faith-Based Schools, which occurred in April 2008. At the Summit, President Bush brought together educators, policymakers, community leaders, and others to develop strategies helping to preserve these valuable educational institutions.
In a statement made on Friday, the White House highlighted the significance of the problem. “[I]nner-city faith-based schools have helped educate generations of low-income American students. Yet, between the 1999-2000 and 2005-06 school years, the Nation lost nearly 1,200 of these faith-based schools, and those remaining had nearly 425,000 fewer students.”
Report Overview
In the statement announcing the report, the White House stated, “The [White House] report chronicles the historical role of faith-based schools in America;particularly their service of low-income, urban populations—explains the caused of their rapid disappearance, and, most importantly, offers recommendations for reversing this dangerous trend. The White House believes that State and local governments, philanthropists, higher education institutions, educational entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders that take up these recommendations can help keep the doors of inner-city faith based schools open to America's disadvantaged students.”
Back to Top
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Drop, Cover & Hold On
On Wednesday, I attended an ACSI Administrators conference in Long Beach. The day was filled with exciting and informative programs. ACSI has been able to forge agreements with the Federal government and with the state Department of Education to include our school in many programs once only available in public schools.
The NOAA meteroligist from Oxnard talked to us about a new alert program. Representatives of the LA County of Education office in Downey shared new ways for teachers to continue learning. Most interesting was the update on the upcoming state wide emergency earthquake drill.
By now, you should have heard of The Great Shake Out. To learn more, click on the link. This is such an important issue, that we have now posted a banner to the right. I learned that getting into a doorway during an earthquake is not a good idea.
Drop (get down before the earthquake knocks you down)
Cover (get under a table or cover your head) and
Hold On (hold onto table / desk legs)
During the next month, we will be discussing earthquakes, performing drills, and getting ready for the Big One. Download this flyer, and discuss it with your student. Make an emergency plan for your family.
Hopefully, we'll never have to do this for real. But let's be ready!
The NOAA meteroligist from Oxnard talked to us about a new alert program. Representatives of the LA County of Education office in Downey shared new ways for teachers to continue learning. Most interesting was the update on the upcoming state wide emergency earthquake drill.
By now, you should have heard of The Great Shake Out. To learn more, click on the link. This is such an important issue, that we have now posted a banner to the right. I learned that getting into a doorway during an earthquake is not a good idea.
Drop (get down before the earthquake knocks you down)
Cover (get under a table or cover your head) and
Hold On (hold onto table / desk legs)
During the next month, we will be discussing earthquakes, performing drills, and getting ready for the Big One. Download this flyer, and discuss it with your student. Make an emergency plan for your family.
Hopefully, we'll never have to do this for real. But let's be ready!
An Ironclad Guarantee
During a recent devotional, I came across this quote "Our Inheritance is Guaranteed." An apropos comment, written for publication months ago, but scheduled for today's reader. As the US and world economies deepen into recession, our first impulse is to worry and panic that everything might be lost. The scripture that accompanied the quote reminded us that God is and always will be in control. Our source of live, financial survival, education, and anything else we can think of is bound up in Him. In Pastor Tom's sermon, this Sunday morning, he spoke of living in a Spirit of Fear, or a Spirit of Victory. Let's choose the latter.
With sadness, we said goodbye to several families of students on Friday. During these economic times, we understand when families must withdraw. It is our hope and prayer that God will provide them financial resources so they might be able to return at a later date. Until that happens, we must continue to tighten our belt and Trust in our God no matter what. If you have made the choice to sacrifice for a rock solid academic and Christian education, then God will honor you as you pay tuition.
With sadness, we said goodbye to several families of students on Friday. During these economic times, we understand when families must withdraw. It is our hope and prayer that God will provide them financial resources so they might be able to return at a later date. Until that happens, we must continue to tighten our belt and Trust in our God no matter what. If you have made the choice to sacrifice for a rock solid academic and Christian education, then God will honor you as you pay tuition.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Thursday Weekly Letter Update
Letter for October 2, 2008
FROM THE DESK OF MR. MILLER……………………
2 October 2008
What does the TERMINATOR know about determination? That’s a question Pastor Tom answered during this weeks chapel service. We are starting our second character trait of determination this month. Ask your child what they are determined to be and what they are determined to do. With God’s strength, the sky’s the limit.
Next week’s chapel service will continue the theme of determination, but also honor several students who have exhibited Knowledge.
Congratulations to the football team. Need I say more? If you want to know the details, read the student newspaper. It’s available online.
I’ve Got Spirit!
Wow! The best triplets I saw today had broken arms. Fortunately, only one was real! With Mrs. Sifuentes tiny sombrero, Ms Loyko’s crazy hair, and a whole bunch of pajamas, we have really celebrated. Tomorrow is the last day -- Friday – Decades Day – Find out what your parents wore in the 80’s, or your grandparents wore in the 60’s! Pick a decade and go for it.
Fundraiser Due NOW!
Whoops! I’m turning in mine late too! They all must be in by tomorrow.
Billing Statements
You will find copies of your bill enclosed in your communicator packet. Please pay promptly. As our economy suffers and congress takes up action tonight, remember to be faithful in paying your tuition bill. When everybody asks for extra time, we have a liquidity problem too.
EPILOGUE
Our church is completing a season of prayer. During this time, we also pray for the many requests that are given by students and school families. If you would like prayer, please contact one of our pastors.
With Determination,
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
FROM THE DESK OF MR. MILLER……………………
2 October 2008
What does the TERMINATOR know about determination? That’s a question Pastor Tom answered during this weeks chapel service. We are starting our second character trait of determination this month. Ask your child what they are determined to be and what they are determined to do. With God’s strength, the sky’s the limit.
Next week’s chapel service will continue the theme of determination, but also honor several students who have exhibited Knowledge.
Congratulations to the football team. Need I say more? If you want to know the details, read the student newspaper. It’s available online.
I’ve Got Spirit!
Wow! The best triplets I saw today had broken arms. Fortunately, only one was real! With Mrs. Sifuentes tiny sombrero, Ms Loyko’s crazy hair, and a whole bunch of pajamas, we have really celebrated. Tomorrow is the last day -- Friday – Decades Day – Find out what your parents wore in the 80’s, or your grandparents wore in the 60’s! Pick a decade and go for it.
Fundraiser Due NOW!
Whoops! I’m turning in mine late too! They all must be in by tomorrow.
Billing Statements
You will find copies of your bill enclosed in your communicator packet. Please pay promptly. As our economy suffers and congress takes up action tonight, remember to be faithful in paying your tuition bill. When everybody asks for extra time, we have a liquidity problem too.
EPILOGUE
Our church is completing a season of prayer. During this time, we also pray for the many requests that are given by students and school families. If you would like prayer, please contact one of our pastors.
With Determination,
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Update Preview & Student Newspaper
Please find attached a link to this weeks students newspaper.
The Wednesday newsletter will be coming home tomorrow, on Thursday, along with October's billing statements. The due date for this month's tuition will be on Monday, October 6th. Remember, the fundraiser is due tomorrow!
More to come...
The Wednesday newsletter will be coming home tomorrow, on Thursday, along with October's billing statements. The due date for this month's tuition will be on Monday, October 6th. Remember, the fundraiser is due tomorrow!
More to come...
Monday, September 29, 2008
Parent Update Letter Friday, September 26
FROM THE DESK OF MR. MILLER……………………
26 September 2008
Dear parents:
As you know, Palm View Christian School operates on a very lean, break even budget. When enrollment dips or people become late on their tuition bills, there is a widely felt ripple effect. The budget anticipates that everybody will pay their tuition by the 5th of the month, in order that we can meet payroll. When people are unable to do that, we have always attempted to work with them, as long as we are able to do so.
Because of this fact, upon realizing our enrollment was lower then what we had projected, we took the necessary actions to either eliminate or substantially reduce the number of hours worked for 5 employees. Our budget forecasts reveal that these painful cuts will allow the school to continue moving forward and provide the quality instruction we are known for. Yet, it also assumes that people pay their tuition accounts in a timely manner, as there is no more available credit to offer.
During times of economic uncertainty, it is natural to become worried about the events around us. Yet Jesus spoke about this in the gospels where he reminded the disciples that God is in control of the hairs on our head and where the sparrows lay down each night. We teach our students in chapel that we can Trust God No Matter What. Some of you may have seen the churches advertisement in the paper that reminds us that Nothing is to Hard for God. When all is said and done, it is our faith in God that helps us through all times, even the hard ones.
I conclude with this:
1) Remember, God will make a way. Make Wise Choices and Trust God no matter what.
2) Remember your commitment to the sacrifice of quality Christian education. If it doesn’t cost anything, it’s not worth much.
3) Our teachers and pastoral staff are available to pray and counsel with you.
Together, we can make our way through.
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
26 September 2008
Dear parents:
As you know, Palm View Christian School operates on a very lean, break even budget. When enrollment dips or people become late on their tuition bills, there is a widely felt ripple effect. The budget anticipates that everybody will pay their tuition by the 5th of the month, in order that we can meet payroll. When people are unable to do that, we have always attempted to work with them, as long as we are able to do so.
Because of this fact, upon realizing our enrollment was lower then what we had projected, we took the necessary actions to either eliminate or substantially reduce the number of hours worked for 5 employees. Our budget forecasts reveal that these painful cuts will allow the school to continue moving forward and provide the quality instruction we are known for. Yet, it also assumes that people pay their tuition accounts in a timely manner, as there is no more available credit to offer.
During times of economic uncertainty, it is natural to become worried about the events around us. Yet Jesus spoke about this in the gospels where he reminded the disciples that God is in control of the hairs on our head and where the sparrows lay down each night. We teach our students in chapel that we can Trust God No Matter What. Some of you may have seen the churches advertisement in the paper that reminds us that Nothing is to Hard for God. When all is said and done, it is our faith in God that helps us through all times, even the hard ones.
I conclude with this:
1) Remember, God will make a way. Make Wise Choices and Trust God no matter what.
2) Remember your commitment to the sacrifice of quality Christian education. If it doesn’t cost anything, it’s not worth much.
3) Our teachers and pastoral staff are available to pray and counsel with you.
Together, we can make our way through.
Marvin J. Miller, M.Div
Principal, Palm View Christian School
October Lunch Menus
October Lunch Menus have just become available. A copy is being sent home tonight. They are also available on line, or right here:
Elementary October Lunches
Upper Grade October Lunches
Elementary October Lunches
Upper Grade October Lunches
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Parent Letter - 24 September 2008
FROM THE DESK OF MR. MILLER……………………
24 September 2008
Did you ever meet a know it all? While this month’s character trait has been on knowledge, it doesn’t mean everybody knows it all. Ask your student what they’ve learned this month, not just in math, science, or spelling, but about God, about how we must decide to make right choices, how we trust God no matter what, and how we treat others the way we wish to be treated. You might be surprised at how much your child’s learned!
HEAVE HO
No, it was not an ol’ fashioned barn raising, but thanks to Ted Rojas, Phil Echavarri, and Mario Garibay, the PTF shed was quickly assembled. Great job guys. If you are wondering what you can do to help, please join the PTF.
Star Light Star Bright, what’s a 3rd grader doing up at night?
Thanks again to Dr. Rob Settledge of the Whittier Rotary for providing the 3RD grade forum for Dr. Michelle Thaller from JPL/NASA to present on Infra-Red telescopes. For links to more educational programming, check our website.
Music
Music Academy begins soon! Look at the orange flyer in the packet.
JBQ / TBQ (Junior Bible Quiz / Teen Bible Quiz)
The JBQ Traveling Team is gearing up for another tour across the Southland. This year, we can have one team of 3rd – 6th graders and one team of 7 & 8th graders. Travel team practices during lunch on Tuesdays. Encourage your children to participate!
Calendar Reminder—
· Friday – Student Government Speeches and Elections – 12:30 PM.
· Muffins with Mom Moved to May
SPIRIT WEEK
Yes, it’s that time again! Show your school Spirit.
· Monday – Sports Team day – Come as a Dodger, Angel, Charger, or any other team.
· Tuesday – Pajama Day – Bring your teddy bear and your hair in curlers!
· Wednesday – Crazy socks & Crazy hair/hat day – Wear your chapel uniform but accessorize, accessorize, accessorize
· Thursday – Twins/Triplets Day – Dress alike, or like a teacher.
· Friday – Decades Day – Find out what your parents wore in the 80’s, or your grandparents wore in the 60’s! Pick a decade and go for it.
THE LAST WORD
Please remember the families of Ms. Patsy and Ms. Fabby, as they both lost close relatives. Both will be out for several days. Our condolences are with them.
With the Peace that surpasses all Knowledge,
24 September 2008
Did you ever meet a know it all? While this month’s character trait has been on knowledge, it doesn’t mean everybody knows it all. Ask your student what they’ve learned this month, not just in math, science, or spelling, but about God, about how we must decide to make right choices, how we trust God no matter what, and how we treat others the way we wish to be treated. You might be surprised at how much your child’s learned!
HEAVE HO
No, it was not an ol’ fashioned barn raising, but thanks to Ted Rojas, Phil Echavarri, and Mario Garibay, the PTF shed was quickly assembled. Great job guys. If you are wondering what you can do to help, please join the PTF.
Star Light Star Bright, what’s a 3rd grader doing up at night?
Thanks again to Dr. Rob Settledge of the Whittier Rotary for providing the 3RD grade forum for Dr. Michelle Thaller from JPL/NASA to present on Infra-Red telescopes. For links to more educational programming, check our website.
Music
Music Academy begins soon! Look at the orange flyer in the packet.
JBQ / TBQ (Junior Bible Quiz / Teen Bible Quiz)
The JBQ Traveling Team is gearing up for another tour across the Southland. This year, we can have one team of 3rd – 6th graders and one team of 7 & 8th graders. Travel team practices during lunch on Tuesdays. Encourage your children to participate!
Calendar Reminder—
· Friday – Student Government Speeches and Elections – 12:30 PM.
· Muffins with Mom Moved to May
SPIRIT WEEK
Yes, it’s that time again! Show your school Spirit.
· Monday – Sports Team day – Come as a Dodger, Angel, Charger, or any other team.
· Tuesday – Pajama Day – Bring your teddy bear and your hair in curlers!
· Wednesday – Crazy socks & Crazy hair/hat day – Wear your chapel uniform but accessorize, accessorize, accessorize
· Thursday – Twins/Triplets Day – Dress alike, or like a teacher.
· Friday – Decades Day – Find out what your parents wore in the 80’s, or your grandparents wore in the 60’s! Pick a decade and go for it.
THE LAST WORD
Please remember the families of Ms. Patsy and Ms. Fabby, as they both lost close relatives. Both will be out for several days. Our condolences are with them.
With the Peace that surpasses all Knowledge,
PTF & 2008-09 Yearbooks
Do you want to help out the school? Join the PTF. There are also exciting fund raising activities on slate for this year. For more information, check out these links.
PTF Fundraisers
PTF Enrollment Form
PTF Enrollment Information
PTF Fundraisers
PTF Enrollment Form
PTF Enrollment Information
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
PTF Report
If you haven't caught a PTF meeting, you are missing out.
Click here for PTF minutes & information.
The PTF has already started fundraising for this year. Look in the Wednesday envelope for some important information about Target.
Click here for PTF minutes & information.
The PTF has already started fundraising for this year. Look in the Wednesday envelope for some important information about Target.
Report from the Stars
The 3rd graders enjoyed Dr. Michelle Thaller at the Shannon Center on Tuesday. Using her Infrared Camera (IR) students learned about invisible light rays and how it makes the universe alive.
Dr. Thaller also stars in NASA educational cartoons available in i-tunes. Her IRrelevant Astronomy series is also on the Discovery Channel.
If you would like to learn more in a fun way, click here for the NASA/JPL link.
Dr. Thaller also stars in NASA educational cartoons available in i-tunes. Her IRrelevant Astronomy series is also on the Discovery Channel.
If you would like to learn more in a fun way, click here for the NASA/JPL link.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
3rd Grade Astronomy Field Trip
On Tuesday, September 23rd, from 1:30 - 2:15, all the 3rd graders will be going to the Shannon Center in Whittier to hear Dr. Michelle Thaller present on astronomy.
Thanks to the generosity of the Whittier Rotary Club, our students are invitied. To help prepare parents and students for the subject, they have given us a list of websites about astronomy. We share them with you here:
Background Material:
Michelle Thaller, Infrared Observational Astronomy
Whittier 3rd Grade Students
We have an introductory website on infrared. It's got some great images!
http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu/cosmic_kids/learn_ir/index.html
There's a whole gallery of everyday infrared images, as well as pictures of animals:
http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu/image_galleries/our_ir_world_gallery.html
http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu/image_galleries/ir_zoo/index.html
The students can see a video me me using the infrared camera at
http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu/videos/more_than_your/index.html
Basically, the whole site, coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu is a great intro. There are activities to do, models to build, many videos and images to look at.
Thanks to the generosity of the Whittier Rotary Club, our students are invitied. To help prepare parents and students for the subject, they have given us a list of websites about astronomy. We share them with you here:
Background Material:
Michelle Thaller, Infrared Observational Astronomy
Whittier 3rd Grade Students
We have an introductory website on infrared. It's got some great images!
http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu/cosmic_kids/learn_ir/index.html
There's a whole gallery of everyday infrared images, as well as pictures of animals:
http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu/image_galleries/our_ir_world_gallery.html
http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu/image_galleries/ir_zoo/index.html
The students can see a video me me using the infrared camera at
http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu/videos/more_than_your/index.html
Basically, the whole site, coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu is a great intro. There are activities to do, models to build, many videos and images to look at.
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