Atlanta Public Schools

1. Atlanta Public Schools The Venetian Bee Venetian Hills Elementary School October, 2012 Linking the School, Home, and Community Teacher of the Year 2012-13 Teaching Philosophy I believe that each student is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. It is my desire as an educator to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an Dear Parents, Community Supporters, and Partners, The academic school year is well under way. Venetian Hills has three main goals for the 2012-2013 school year. Our first goal is to increase the use of technology, tap more talented students, and provide more student life activities. Our faculty and staff have been hard at work ensuring that each and every student receives a rigorous and relevant curriculum. This year we are using the Common Core State Standards which are curriculum standards adopted by over 48 states. The standards are intended to prepare your child for college and career. Daily, I have the opportunity to visit classrooms or to observe student work that showcase these standards. We are working diligently to provide your child with a world class education. During our Principal’s Roundtable and September PTA information was provided to parents about the Common Core State Standards and how parents and community can support students in Reading and Mathematics. Together, our mission is to prepare students for the next grade level and beyond. The next Principal’s Roundtable will focus on the topic of Bullying Prevention. Here at Venetian Hills, we strive to provide a safe and positive learning environment for all students. To do this, we need your support. The goal of our Principal Roundtable will be to provide you an overview on the APS Bullying Policy, resources and steps that you can use to report bullying and what parents should look for and listen for from their child. We are making great strides at Venetian Hills Elementary School. Let’s continue to work together to build a strong school and strong community. Marie Hall 5th Grade Teacher environment that is safe, supports risk-taking, and invites a sharing of ideas. As a catalyst for change, there are three elements that I believe are conducive to establishing such an environment, (1) the teacher acting as a guide, (2) allowing the child's natural curiosity to direct his/her learning, and (3) promoting respect for self and others. The Principal’s Book of the Month Grandfather’s Journey by Allen Say This is the story of a Japanese immigrant's journey to America. Allen Say's (author) grandfather came to this country as a young man. The grandfather traveled all over America and saw the mountains, prairies, deserts, and cities. But, he settled in California because he liked it the best. California had mountains, sun, and a seacoast which reminded him of his home in Japan. He returned to Japan to marry and then brought his bride to California. They had a daughter, but then Grandfather became homesick for Japan and his family moved back to Japan. He loves being with his friends in Japan. He loved both countries all the rest of his life. His daughter married and had a son (Allen Say). After Allen grows up he decides to come see all the beautiful things in America his grandfather had loved and talked about. Allen stays in California but never forgets his homeland. The story is told as Say remembers his grandfather's life and his own coming to America. CLASS DOJO Have you asked your child about Dojo points? Class Dojo is our school-wide behavior management plan. This is a computer based program that allows students to earn points daily for things like wearing their uniform, being on time to school or having their homework. Students can earn points for classroom and school activities. Students in K-2 need 50 points, and students in grades 3-5 need 100 points.

2. Newsletter Staff ATLANTA BOARD OF EDUCATION Mr. Reuben R. McDaniel, III, Chair Mr. Byron D. Amos, Vice Chair Ms. Brenda J. Muhammad Ms. Cecily Harsch-Kinnane Ms. Nancy Meister Ms. LaChandra Butler Burks Ms. Yolanda Johnson Mr. Courtney English Mr. Emmett Johnson ATLANTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS Mr. Erroll B. Davis, Jr. Superintendent LOCAL SCHOOL LEADERSHIP Ms. Diamond Jack Principal Ms. Shalewa Thrash Assistant Principal Dr. Mary Norris Instructional Coach Ms. Danika Woods Instructional Coach Ms. Paulette Nelson PTA President / Parent Liaison V-Bots : Venetian Hills Robotics Club • We would like to introduce our new Robotics Club which is part of an international program created through a partnership between FIRST and The LEGO Group that: • INSPIRES children, (Grades 4-8), to participate in science and technology. • ENGAGES children in playful and meaningful learning. • PROVIDES a fun, creative, hands-on learning experience. • CHALLENGES children to solve real-world problems using robotics. • TEACHES children to experiment and overcome obstacles. • BUILDS self-esteem and confidence . Upcoming Events October 1st – 5th- Book Fair (10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.) 5th - Principal’s Roundtable (9:00 a.m.) 10th - 11th- Principal’s Book of the Month 22nd - Breast Cancer Awareness (9:00 a.m.) 22nd – 26th- Red Ribbon Week 24th - Strong4Life Pep Rally (12:45 p.m.) 26th - Fall Festival (2:30 p.m.- 4:30 p.m.) 31st - Book Character Day "Reminders" School Uniforms Monday – Thursday BOYS: Hunter Green or White shirt, Khaki pants GIRLS: Hunter Green or White shirt/blouse, Khaki pants, skirt or jumper Friday School Spirit Day School t-shirt and jeans Ms. Marie Hall Dr. Sheila D. Johnson Dr. Mary Norris Ms. Monica Willingham Parent Teacher Association (PTA) The PTA meets every second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. Annual Dues: $ 6.00 per family The Atlanta Public School System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or sexual orientation in any of its employment practices, educational programs, services, or activities. APS Website: www.atlanta.k12.ga.us