BB Oct 16
BB Oct 16
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is...
Music
Technology Respect
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SUPERINTENDENT BOARD OF EDUCATION
Is Reaching 100% Possible? Improving Technology Resources
Over the past year I have been asked, A substantial portion of voter-approved
“Do you truly believe 100% of Burbank Measure S bond funds were earmarked for
Unified School District (BUSD) students can technology upgrades in our District. Earlier
graduate?” My answer is a simple, “Yes!” this summer, we completed construction
All of us at the Burbank Unified School on a new data center, increasing the space
District (BUSD) are focused on supporting to house all our servers, storage devices,
Matt Hill our students to help them graduate. As Larry and telecommunications infrastructure in a
Superintendent BUSD employees we realize that we have Applebaum central environment featuring robust cooling
a unique role in guiding each student President and back-up power protection.
through his or her educational journey. Our focus is to help Coupling new high-speed fiber connections
each student graduate high school in four years, but we to all our sites—made possible through a partnership with
realize that some students may need longer to finish the Burbank Water and Power—with network infrastructure
requirements necessary to receive a diploma or certificate and Wi-Fi upgrades paid for by Measure S, we are creating
of completion. the necessary capacity to allow students to utilize
Our collective charge is to listen to our students to technology in the classroom on an everyday basis.
better understand their personal stories so that we can I’m often asked why we have placed so much emphasis on
support them. Graduation is not a focus for just our improving technology in our schools. The answer is simple;
seniors; we are focused from pre-school throughout students of today grow up immersed in technology, but need
their entire time with us at BUSD. That is why we have to learn how to live, work, and play utilizing the technology
invested in additional supports to help our teachers and tools of today and the future, while avoiding the pitfalls and
counselors. Over the past two years, BUSD has invested dangers associated with increased online access.
in full-time intervention specialists in our elementary In June, new student standards were adopted by the
schools, added counselors to our secondary schools, ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education)
enhanced our summer school programs, and have added focused on six broad areas: 1) Creativity and Innovation;
additional personnel to support the social and emotional 2) Communication and collaboration; 3) Research
well-being of our students. These individuals work closely and information fluency; 4) Critical thinking, problem
with our school teams to create a team of support and solving, and decision making; 5) Digital citizenship;
encouragement for every student. and 6) Technology operations and concepts. Later this
It will not be easy, but by working together, I am year, an updated Technology Master Plan that ensures
confident we can reach our goal of 100% of our students we are meeting these expectations will be presented for
graduating. consideration. The Board is committed to supporting
increased student use of technology in the classroom by
1900 West Olive Avenue • Burbank, CA 91506 providing the necessary funds for professional development
818-729-4400 as well as appropriate build-out and refresh of our District
www.burbankusd.org technology resources.
Board of Education
2 www.schoolnewsrollcall.com
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Education + Communication = A Better Nation
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BURBANK UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
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GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Tim DeLacy Setting Goals to reach graduation on their own.
COPY EDITORS: Setting goals is part of life. We all Every student has the District’s
Lisa Brock, Kate Karp & Anna Zappia have basic goals to get us through support. His message is so important
Netragrednik by Neta Madison because he understands that not
our daily routines — getting to
@SchoolNewsRC work or the kids to school on time. every student learns at the same
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lots of money. However, setting process and they have to be focused
SCHOOL NEWS ROLL CALL, LLC realistic life goals takes focus, on the same goal, which is reachable
P.O. Box 728, Seal Beach, CA 90740 often planning, determination, and and measureable.
562/493-3193 Be sure to enter our contests on
www.schoolnewsrollcall.com support. Superintendent Hill writes
Copyright © 2006, School News Roll Call, LLC in his message on page 2 about the pages 9 and 15, which are open to all
Reproduction in whole or in part without written
permission is strictly prohibited unless otherwise stated. District goal for 100% of the students ages.
Opinions expressed by contributing writers and guest
to graduate. He is focused and Our next issue is November 14.
columnists are their views and not necessarily those of
School News Roll Call. This publication is privately throughout his message is the word In the meantime, have a Happy
owned and the right is reserved to select and edit content.
The school district does not endorse the advertisers in this “support.” Students are not expected Halloween!
publication.
We have Hit the Ground Running! Through our “Kid-Tooning” workshops we plan to raise
Summer vacation and planning for the students’ confidence, foster pride in learning a new skill,
year ahead seem like a thing of the past! and develop students’ spatial relation abilities. The three
And they are since we are already well into lessons for every class are highly anticipated by both
the school year. Our teachers have lessons students and teachers! We look forward to the new ways
planned, parent helpers assigned, and of our students will express their ideas and creativity.
course extra-curricular
Laura Flosi activities to make the
Principal year even more exciting.
Our staff attended a
Depth and Complexity training this
past August and it’s been amazing to
see that applied in the classrooms. The
Depth and Complexity Icons are visual
prompts designed to help students go
beyond surface level understanding of
a concept and enhance their ability to
think critically. These critical thinking
tools help students dig deeper into a
concept (depth) and understand that
concept with greater complexity. We
are also about to start work with our art
consultant so that all Edison students
can learn the skill of cartooning.
4 www.schoolnewsrollcall.com
Emerson Elementary School
720 E. Cypress Ave., Burbank, CA 91501 • 818/558-5419
Back to School Night departments and arranged for their students to perform at
Emerson Elementary School brought the the picnic. The students of John Muir Middle School’s choir
community together at our annual Back to performed alongside the Burbank High School marching
School Family Picnic in September. Students, band while color guards entertained the picnic attendees.
their families, and local residents all enjoyed Food trucks provided guests with delicious treats and
the festivities. Emerson’s PTA President, Erin families were able to spread their blankets out on the grass
Konstantine, and the Emerson Stars Booster field with the Burbank hills forming a beautiful backdrop.
Club President, Leila Casey, worked with the Everyone in attendance enjoyed a wonderful evening at the
Jennifer Kaitz
Principal local middle and high school vocal and music home of the Stars!
Drama Maniacs develop a life-long love of drama, but also the skills to
The emphasis on the arts at Bret Harte become successful in whatever career they choose to
Elementary School is never more alive pursue in the future. Drama, practiced in a safe and
than during theater class. For the past four stimulating environment, develops confident and resilient
years, every grade and class has received kids! The In-School Drama Maniacs program at Bret Harte
five weekly sessions of theater class. These culminates in a presentation of student work for family
theater classes have been generously co- and peers. We are excited to work on these projects and
Martha Walter funded by Burbank Arts for All and the Bret activities with the dynamic and creative students of Bret
Principal Harte PTA. Harte Elementary School!
This year Drama Maniacs is providing a
drama enrichment program for Harte students. Their focus
is to develop confidence, creativity, and character through
student-created projects. Drama Maniacs use an in-
school curriculum that aligns with the California Content
Standards and brings meaningful and educational arts
experiences to our students. Workshops include rehearsals
for short scenes, improvisation activities, and lessons
on drama skills (including blocking/stage directions,
characterization, improvisation, mime, and voice), theater
games, music and movement activities, script reading,
monologues, and children’s literature.
Like Drama Maniacs, we at Bret Harte believe that
students who are encouraged to take part in the creative
process (writing, acting, and directing) will not only
Theatre Arts
At Jefferson Elementary School one of
the goals included in our 2016–17 Single
Plan for Student Achievement is the
development of listening and speaking
skills. We believe it is important for our
students to develop basic skills such as
Sandra articulating their thoughts and opinions
DeBarros in a clear manner, and projecting their
Principal voices so that they may be heard and
understood while maintaining eye
contact with the audience. With that in mind, we have
selected a theater arts program, which is designed to
support our goal of addressing these communication
skills—skills which often are not specifically, nor
systematically, addressed. Professional development
will be provided to teachers in grades TK–2 in the
first semester followed by grades 3–5 in the second.
By having teachers implement these speaking and
attentive listening strategies across the different areas
of the curriculum, Jefferson students will never have
to say that public speaking is the thing they fear the
most. Public speaking will just be something they
naturally do!
Family Math Night own classroom. Our teachers enjoyed the professional
In September, we had the privilege of development time with Jane and John and are excited
having Jane and John Felling, the owners about implementing what they learned into their weekly
of Box Cars and One Eyed Jacks, visit our math instruction. These events are a great example of
school. These passionate educators have how committed we are to creating a strong home-school
created a publishing company that designs partnership that supports our students in reaching their
games that use dominoes and dice to practice full potential.
Liz Costella math and literacy skills.
Principal During their visit they
facilitated a Family Domino
Night, which gave our students and their
families a chance to play games that reinforce
math concepts. Jane worked with our families
who have students in transitional kindergarten
through second grade, while John worked
with our third- through fifth-grade families.
Students enjoyed games like “Clockominoes” for
addition practice and “Dozen Domino Dilemma”
to compare numbers. The 55 families and
numerous staff members in attendance had an
exciting evening full of math fun.
The following day the Fellings conducted
demonstration lessons throughout the
school. Each teacher had the opportunity to
observe math games and strategies in their
6 www.schoolnewsrollcall.com
Miller Elementary School
720 E. Providencia Ave., Burbank, CA 91501 • 818/558-5460
Solid Academic Foundation taken at the end of the assembly. Parents are invited to
At Miller Elementary School we recognize attend this special activity. At Miller, students know that
one student from each classroom with a although we focus on making sure they learn to read,
PeaceBuilder/Citizenship Trait award at write, and do math, it is equally important that they learn
our flag assembly, which is held on the last about being a good citizen. Character traits that we focus
Friday of the month. This award is given to on include responsibility, respect, cooperation, generosity,
students who have consistently practiced self discipline, honesty, acceptance, perseverance,
the monthly character trait in the classroom and compassion. We want our students to leave Miller
Judy Hession
Principal and/or on the playground. Students receive a Elementary School with a solid academic foundation as well
certificate and ribbon and have their picture as life skills that will help them in their future.
Reflections Art Program for our annual Art Gallery Night during which the students’
Each year Providencia students have the Reflections entries are displayed in an art gallery setting.
opportunity to participate in the Reflections Students and their families are encouraged to dress
Art Program, which is sponsored by our PTA. up and Student Council Members serve hors d’ouevres
PTA Reflections is a nationally acclaimed and sparkling cider. We recognize all of the Reflections
student recognition participants before announcing
program that encourages the winners of each category.
artistic creativity in the Each year more students
Jennifer
Culbertson classroom and at home. participate in Reflections,
Principal This year, students of all and this high participation
grades and abilities may rate is indicative of our strong
participate and explore the arts based on community of learners who are
the 2016-2017 theme: What is Your Story? inspired and excited to show off
Our annual Family Art Night kicks off their artistic abilities.
the Reflections Program. Students and Providencia was just
their families are invited to this evening selected as a 2016 Exemplary
event to learn more about the Reflections Arts Program School, and our
Program and to create their own visual annual Family Art Night and
arts masterpiece using a variety of Art Gallery Night are just two
mediums. Throughout the hour-long art examples of how we encourage
lesson, both students and parents are and support the artistic
encouraged to think about their own creativity of our students. At
story and how to visually represent it. Providencia, we truly believe
In November, families are invited back that every student is an artist!
Strong Programs
The staff and families at Robert
Louis Stevenson Elementary School
are proud of our mission of strong
academics and strong arts and
technology programs. And becoming a
California Gold Ribbon and Exemplary
Christina Arts School this past year was certainly
Desiderio a highlight. Integrating the arts within
Principal the core curriculum contributed to
our high SBAC scores. These test
scores are a true testament to our dedicated teachers
and supportive parents. This year we are focusing
on drama, using techniques such as depth and
complexity icons and focusing on the big idea, Growth
Mindset, and Guided Language Acquisition Design
(GLAD). Our very generous PTA and booster club,
Families for Stevenson (FFS) support many of these
programs. The Stevenson Boo Bash is our big PTA
fundraiser. It has become a large community event
enjoyed not only by our school families but by Burbank
residents as well. Our FFS holds a similar event in the
spring called Stevenson Rocks. We are truly thankful
for the support of both of these parent organizations. Teachers during our Drama Works professional development day.
8 www.schoolnewsrollcall.com
Washington Elementary School
2322 N. Lincoln St., Burbank, CA 91504 • 818/558-5550
Rules for a Peaceful Playground (5) No time-outs, (6) No do-overs, (7) Running is allowed
Washington Elementary started off the on grass field only, (8) Use equipment responsibly, and (10)
first week of school with an assembly about Solve disputes with Rock-Paper-Scissors.
the importance of maintaining a peaceful George Washington’s rules for maintaining a peaceful
playground. Laura Anderson, a BUSD playground enhance learning, prevent bullying, and
parent and playground consultant, has been promote positive social interactions during recess and
working with Washington students and yard lunch.
Brandi Young supervisors for four consecutive school years.
Principal Each year, students and staff are trained
on how to play different playground
games such as Around the World,
Basketball, Knockout, One Fly Up, Kickball, Soccer,
1-2-3 Handball, Tetherball, Two-Square, Four-Square,
Prisoner, Hopscotch, Hula Hoops, Jump Ropes, Scoops,
Chinese Jump Rope, Switch, and Shadow Tag.
Throughout the year, Laura Anderson will visit
students and yard supervisors at recess and model the
different games by playing them with the students. All
Washington students receive a handbook to keep in
their desks in order to remind them of how to play the
different games. Some of the rules that Washington
students learn to follow are: (1) Everyone plays or
nobody plays, (2) Play fair, (3) Be ready when you
enter a game, (4), Play your best at all times,
Off to A Flying Start and opportunities for learner engagement, there is one
The Luther Burbank Middle School important ingredient for success: that main ingredient
Yellow Jacket Nation is off and flying into is that are learners must be active participants in the
the 2016–2017 school year. Our highly- learning process.
qualified and exceptionally talented We also ask that our parents and guardians be active
teachers have been delivering rigorous, participants. There are many ways for to do this. Please
relevant, and engaging lessons which join and support the Luther Burbank PTSA, the Yellow
Jacket Boosters, and our Associated Student Body (ASB).
Dr. Oscar Macias promote and support opportunities for
Principal curiosity, collaboration, critical thinking, There are many fun-filled events and activities
creativity, and communication. There is scheduled throughout the year to give you an opportunity
a strong focus on utilizing Kagan Structures to engage to see the amazingly talented learners of our school,
every learner in every classroom. including upcoming performances by our students in choir
With all the extraordinary instructional practices and band. Please refer to the Activities Calendar on our
school website at www.burbankusd.org/lbms
10 www.schoolnewsrollcall.com
Muir Middle School
1111 N. Kenneth Rd., Burbank, CA 91504 • 818/558-5320
Your Child is Our Focus advocate for their social development by encouraging
The school year is in full swing and your participation in some of our amazing extra-curricular
child is right in the middle of it all! Your child opportunities through our clubs and ASB.
is our focus and we are here to help make If your child ever needs help, they can find a friend in
sure their year is “Better than Ever!” their school counselor. School counselors advocate for
You, the parents, can guide your child in the needs of all students, listen to student concerns, and
many ways. You can support them in their support success in academics and in life. Counselors are
Dr. Greg Miller academics by having nightly discussions available before school, nutrition, lunch, Muir time, and
Principal about what they are learning, helping them after school. Whether it’s a conversation while jogging the
prepare for tests, checking the parent portal, bean run or a check-in to discuss improving a grade—Muir
and communicating with teachers. You can counselors care.
Career Pathways
Burbank High School is excited
to be in the planning phase for our
two new Career Pathways for the
2017-2018 school year. These new
pathways, the Medical Academy and
the Engineering Academy, will be
Dr. Michael similar to our already successful
Bertram Business Academy as they will be
Principal supported through the National
Academy Foundation. These programs
will feature access to curriculum that will be brand
new to Burbank Unified School District. These
two new pathways have already begun to build
momentum at BHS through the implementation
of an Introduction to Engineering class and the
renewal of the Sports Medicine program. In support
of these programs we have had the opportunity to
obtain new computers, including ZSpace computers
and 3D Printers, which have been utilized this
school year by students in both our new and existing
programs. This year promises to be exciting as we
embark on these new STEAM (Science Technology
Engineering Art Math) oriented programs!
It’s All in the Mindset A growth mindset can be learned, and the Monterey
We begin developing a belief about our High School staff will be working to enhance, teach, and
own intelligence in childhood. This belief reinforce growth mindset traits in our students. Parents
impacts how children do in school. There are also play an important role in this process through their
those who develop a fixed mindset, believing beliefs about intelligence and the kind of praise and
that they were born with all the learning reinforcement they give their children. In November, the
capacity, talents, and abilities they will have Monterey staff will present these ideas to parents to help
in their lifetime. On the other hand, there are educate and communicate to them their role in supporting
Ann Brooks
Principal those who believe that through hard work their students’ growth mindset.
and effort they can learn and do just about
anything they want to do. These students have developed a
growth mindset.
When the Monterey High School staff assessed the
students’ attitudes about intelligence, as a group they were
found to have a mixed mindset, which results in believing
some of the characteristics of both mindsets. Monterey
High Schools students will be taking a survey next quarter
to find out what they believe about intelligence.
Monterey High School predominantly serves students
with credit deficiencies and, in some cases, those who have
had little to no success in high school thus far. The staff
and students participate in class activities to create a shift
and support a solid growth mindset in them to help them
succeed in college and career.
12 www.schoolnewsrollcall.com
Community Day School / New Vista
223 E. Santa Anita Ave., Burbank, CA 91502 • 818/558-4693
Wellness Program
The Community Day School Wellness
program is a voluntary class where students
meet at 6:30 each morning before school.
Students learn to overcome obstacles
and live a healthy lifestyle. The focus is
on physical conditioning, which includes
Chris Krohn strength training, muscular stamina, and
Administrator morning runs twice a week. It’s a great
opportunity for both students and staff to
work together to build self-confidence and a positive school
climate. The class promotes wellness, mutual respect, and
team building skills.
14 www.schoolnewsrollcall.com
Naomi’s Book Review
Comic Ventriloquist Joe Gandelman and Friends
A Magical Box • Big cast of characters
The Secret Kingdom • Shows adjusted to each
by Rosie Banks is a book age group packed with laughs,
full of mystery, suspense, interaction and content
adventure, thrills and • Themes such as anti-bullying,
anti-drug, pro-reading, character
excitement.
or get FREE CUSTOMIZATION
This book is about
three girls called Jasmine, Ellie and Summer For Bookings Contact: [email protected]
who found a magical box that gave them
Naomi a riddle. That the girls couldn’t solve.
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Therefore the box sent the three girls to
another world where they saw fairies, kings, queens, and
trolls. Where they also went through different stages in 2
ga
weather. After going through all that adventure the three m
girls solved the riddle. Then the box sent the three girls es
back home. Where they made sure to put the box in a safe in
place where no one could ever find it again. 1!
I give this book 5 stars because it is interesting and
has many different scenes that just make me want to keep
reading it over and over again. This is why I recommend
this book to everyone.
Naomi is a fourth grader that enjoys reading and writing. But aside from SumDiceyFun.com
her joy of reading she loves to play the piano, drawing, coloring and be [email protected]
involved in any school event. She rates her book from 1-5 stars with 5
being the highest.
Halloween
Word Search Contest
Rules! One word in the list is NOT in the word search.
When you have completed the word search, one word will be left and that word you
email to: [email protected] (Please put Burbank in the subject line)
Entries must be received by November 15, 2016
From the correct entries one name will be drawn to win
a $20 gift certificate redeemable at Barnes & Noble.