Thank you, Madrona teachers! We appreciate all you do!

From the Principal

We’ve begun what I affectionately refer to as the “free fall descent” of the last two months of school. Spring weather combined with field trips, annual events and year end rituals combine to create a calendar that is both busy and fun. At the beginning of May (4th – 8th) is Teacher Appreciation Week and I know that Kim Magana and our parent coordinators have a fun week of recognitions planned. I can say with all honesty that the teachers at Madrona are amongst the finest I have ever had the privilege of working with in my career. The dedication and passion that it takes to teach in our multi-age school is apparent in our teachers’ work each and every day. I am both humbled and grateful to work with such an outstanding staff.

An event of May that I’m especially looking forward to is our Art Walk and MIT Social coming up on Thursday, May 8th. This annual event always has a great turn out and the art and performances of our students are amazing! Also, our May 21st MIT meeting will host the annual visit of Dr. Brossoit, our superintendent. He is happy to answer questions and speak to topics of our interest.

I am also looking forward to our annual Staff Retreat on Friday May 9th which is a non-student day. At the retreat we reflect on our progress towards this year’s goals, and our vision for the future as we look at the information we’ve collected from testing, surveys and observations. This event is well timed as we both begin to plan for next year and take a breath together as we begin the final six weeks of school.

We’ve had some interesting conversations during the monthly coffee hour Craig and I have been hosting. I think this no-agenda time has served to both answer parent questions as well as to provide Craig and me the opportunity to hear parents’ perspectives about issues ranging from funding of schools to spelling tests. I certainly come away from each conversation with a better understanding about something and I hope that is true for parents who attend as well. The next coffee hour is Friday – May 16th from 9:00-10:00 in the library, all are welcome.

Finally, I am so delighted to share some good news with the Madrona community. That is that our assistant principal Craig Baldwin completed his doctoral degree in recent weeks! This is such a wonderful accomplishment and I hope you join me in extending congratulations to him when you see him next.

I’m looking forward to seeing you at school this month!

Happy May! – Lynda

All For Kids

Dear Madrona families,

Every parent who has chosen Madrona K-8 believes it provides the best learning environment for our child. A commitment to their education is one of the most valuable lessons we can offer to them. All For Kids is the opportunity to provide money that directly funds your child’s classroom.

All for Kids is our annual fund drive directly supporting educational enrichment for our students. By achieving a $20,000 goal 100% of those funds are allocated to classrooms and programs. Your donation provides funding for classroom materials, library, tech lab, music and art used daily. Every dollar donated offers resources that focus directly on the needs of Madrona students.

Every day we parents drive our kids to school, activities, friends houses, we need to take this opportunity to drive our kid’s education. For the price of one tank of gas you can help us reach our annual goal. With every family’s help we can make our children’s destination the opportunity to achieve their best education.

There are many ways to contribute to All For Kids. We are a non-profit organization; all contributions are tax deductible You can cut out this form & mail or drop into the box in the office and qualify for matching funds from your employer. We are now able to accept donations from your credit card thru Pay Pal http://madronabearfacts.com/fundraising/all_for_kids.htm

Please help us by returning your donation to All For Kids today.

Thanks for your support,

All For Kids

Madrona Integrated Team

MIT Co-Chair’s Corner

Greetings from another MIT Co-Chair!

Here it is the beginning of May and I can’t believe how fast this year is flying by! Thanks to my co-chair Linda Hood who usually writes for the Bear Facts I have this opportunity to share. First of all, my heartfelt thanks to everyone who wished me well and helped with my recovery during the 8 weeks I was out of school. A difficult time made easier by all of the care I received.

Next, now that WASL is behind us for another year we can look forward to Artwalk on May 8th. Look for dessert provided by the MIT board and a silent auction of artwork produced by local Edmonds artists.

Then, Spring Concerts on May 29th and June 5th and lots of other exciting end of the year celebrations. Also, on May 9th (a non-student day) our faculty will spend the day at Retreat, honing our visions and goals for Madrona.

A review of events and discussions this past month:

• Internet Safety Seminar – very informative and well attended
• New links to PayPal on Bear Facts website-buy scrip!
• Grant money of $10,000.00 allocated to many worthwhile endeavors: preschool playground, technology for M.S., musical instruments for kindergarten, library seating improvements to name a few.

And finally, don’t forget to vote on May 20th! - Barb Jensen, Faculty Co-Chair

Join us for the Madrona Art Walk

Thursday, May 8th , 6:30-8:00

- See the wonderful art students have been working on all year!

- Listen to our very cool jazz band!

- Enjoy free Italian sodas provided by MIT, served in the cafeteria (until supplies run out!)

We look forward to seeing all of our families there!

Madrona Integrated Team

Buy Entertainment Books Online - Help Madrona's Little Kids!!

Help Madrona buy new playground equipment for the littlest kids -- go to www.madronabearfacts.com & follow the link to Little Kids Playground. Use your credit card to pay for the books, & they will come home in the next couple of days with your child.

Donate to All for Kids & Give Little Kids a Place to Play!

Write a check to MIT and direct your donation to the Little Kids’ Playground. Your employer may match your donation! Help raise $18,000 for playground equipment.

Use Credit Cards to Donate to All for Kids!

Newsflash -- you may now use your credit card to donate to All for Kids! Simply go to www.madronabearfacts.com and follow the link to the secure payment site, Paypal.

Coffee Hour with Lynda & Craig

Lynda Fischer has been hosting a coffee hour for parents who have time to drop in and discuss anything that comes to mind. Please drop in and see what develops. There is no planned agenda or topic, just an informal setting to chat and yes . . . there really is coffee and tea!

Friday, May 16, 9 – 10am Library

Summer Scrip

Now is the time to start thinking of stocking up for summer scrip use!! You can buy ahead of time so you have gift cards to use during the summer months! It’s not easy to go to the grocery store without your gift cards to use! Think of the money that Madrona could be earning!

If you plan on staying in a hotel or renting a car, please stop by the scrip table and place and order! We even have Disney cards in increments as high as $1,000.00 if you will be traveling to Disneyland or Disney World!

If you are a Safeway shopper, please remember to go online to www.escrip.com and register you Safeway Club Card (Madrona’s group # is 8546372). Madrona earns a % of what is spent each month for everyone who signs up and shops at Safeway. Remember, any family member can sign up their card (grandmas, aunts, etc). We currently have 68 families registered. Let’s try and make it 100 by the end of the school year! If you have any questions, contact Linda Park at (425) 672-9485 or labpark@comcast.net. – Linda Park

Last Two MIT Business Meetings!

In the library at 7:00 PM

• May 21st - Wednesday (Nick Brossoit visits us)
• June 10th* - Tuesday

More Info

Support Madrona’s Music Programs!

The Music Boosters is selling T-shirts to help raise money to buy sheet music, new musical instruments, and specialized equipment for the music department.

Support all of our music students by purchasing a t-shirt! All shirts are black with white lettering. On the front is your choice of ‘Choir, Orchestra, Band or Jazz” and on the back is ‘Madrona Music’. The cost is $16 and all proceeds go to the entire music department. Order forms are in the front office. For more information or to place an order, contact Sarah DeMun at sdemun@comcast.net.

 – Sarah DeMun

DHH Parent Reps needed for 2008-2009

Calling all DHH parents. The MIT Board needs YOU! We have two slots on the MIT Board next school year that need to be filled. Responsibilities include: attending the monthly MIT Board meeting (if there are two parents you could alternate months if necessary) and gathering information from DHH staff to submit to Bear Facts monthly. Benefits: Keeping the greater Madrona community informed about the DHH program and making a difference! (smile) Please consider volunteering. If these slots go unfilled, DHH will not have a voice on the MIT. Elections will be held soon so if you are interested in serving or have any questions, please contact Rebecca Anderson - becsterbear@gmail.com or 425-776-5069.

DHH Parent Meetings at Madrona in the Library

May 6th at 7:00 - 8:00

Program Review Work

May 20th at 7:00 - 8:00

Curriculum June

TBD at 6:30 - 8:00 - Career Options Panel

- Rebecca Anderson

Northwest Boychoir

The Northwest Boychoir will hold open auditions for boys 6 to 9 years old on Saturday, May 31 at the University Heights Community Center in Seattle. No previous music training is necessary. Financial aid is available. Auditions are casual and fun. Classes begin in September. To make an audition appointment, call 206-524-3234. To learn more about the Northwest Boychoir, visit www.nwchoirs.org. -         Maria Johnson, Executive Director

Edmonds Arts Festival

This year’s Edmonds Arts festival will take place June 13-15, Father’s Day weekend. The art exhibit is student work and the project is organized by a district arts employee, Laurie Piper, as a part of her job. Volunteers are needed! The following events take place at the Francis Anderson Center, lower level, 700 Main St., downtown Edmonds. WANT TO HELP? CALL or email Laurie Piper (425) 431-7115 PiperL@edmonds.wednet.edu

Hanging/ Displaying Art

(Even an hour on one day is helpful!)

• June 6  (Friday) 9:30-3:00
• June 7 (Saturday) 9:30-3:00
• June 8 (Sunday) 9:30-3:00

 Hosting Exhibit

• June 12 (Thursday) 5:00 to 8:00
• June 13 (Friday) 10 -12:30, 12:30 -3:00, 3:00 to 5:30, 5:30 to 8:00
• June 14 (Saturday) ” “ “ “
• June 15 (Sunday) “ “ “
• Take Down Exhibit
• June 15 (Sunday evening) 5:15-8:30 - Lynne McCabe

Staff Star

Welcome to Kirsten Brown our new secretary! We are so delighted to have Kirsten as our office assistant, putting her many talents to work here at Madrona. Kirsten worked previously for the school district technology department and has learned her new job here quickly! If you haven’t introduced yourself to Kirsten yet, please do next time you come to school.

Happy Mother’s Day, to all Madrona Moms!

I Loved You Enough, by Erma Bombeck

Someday when my children are old enough to understand the logic that motivates a parent, I will tell them:

I loved you enough to ask where you were going, with whom, and what time you would be home.

I loved you enough to insist that you save your money and buy a bike for yourself even though we could afford to buy one for you.

I loved you enough to be silent and let you discover that your new best friend was a creep.

I loved you enough to make you take a Milky Way back to the drugstore (with a bite out of it) and tell the clerk, "I stole this yesterday and want to pay for it."

 I loved you enough to stand over you for two hours while you cleaned your room, a job that would have taken 15 minutes.

I loved you enough to let you see anger, disappointment and tears in my eyes. Children must learn that their parents aren't perfect.

I loved you enough to let you assume the responsibility for your actions even when the penalties were so harsh they almost broke my heart.

But most of all, I loved you enough to say NO when I knew you would hate me for it. Those were the most difficult battles of all. I'm glad I won them, because in the end you won, too.

Elementary School Kids Discuss Moms…

What kind of little girl was your Mom?

1. My Mom has always been my Mom and none of that other stuff.

2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.

3. They say she used to be nice.

Why did your Mom marry your dad?

1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my Mom eats a lot.

2. She got too old to do anything else with him.

3. Grandma says that Mom didn't have her thinking cap on.

Who's the boss at your house?

1. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goof ball.

2. Mom. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.

3. I guess Mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.

What's the difference between moms and dads?

1. Moms work at work & work at home, & dads just go to work at work.

2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.

3. Dads are taller & stronger, but moms have all the real power 'cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friend's.

4. Moms have magic. They make you feel better without medicine.

What does your Mom do in her spare time?

1. Mothers don't do spare time.

2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.

What would it take to make your Mom perfect?

1. On the inside she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.

2. Diet. You know, her hair. I'd diet, maybe blue.

If you could change one thing about your Mom, what would it be?

1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.

2. I'd make my Mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it and not me.

3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on her back.

More Info

A Letter from a Parent:

To All Madrona Families –

I am a parent of a primary student here at Madrona. I can no longer continue to read the continuous pleas for financial help without pointing out a few things. In the past few years, I have had several conversations with other parents regarding our “home” schools and why we chose to throw our names in the Madrona lottery. With the exception of one mom, every other parent I’ve ever discussed this with has mentioned that they also put their names on the list for Maplewood Co-op. A few things to remember: had your child been accepted to Maplewood, you would have accepted the responsibility of donating $20 per child, every month, to the school. You would also be volunteering 2.5 hours per week in your child’s classroom. I find it fascinating that we (I am just as guilty) tend to be less willing to fork over money when it’s a choice versus an obligation. The bottom line is we were willing to donate this money if our children were Maplewood students. They aren’t. They are Madrona Bears and we should dig deep, fork over that $20 / month and be proud of the fact our school has the funds it needs. My daughter will start preschool in the fall and three of her classmates will be in her Madrona kindergarten class the following year. The cost for the preschool is well over $200 / month. Kindergarten is over $300 / month. It is absolutely dumbfounding to me that we as parents are willing to write those checks every month but a very small donation to our school once the kids hit the first grade seems so difficult to make. It dawned on me during the primary concert when Linda Hood spoke about the $18K needed to replace the preschool playground equipment. If each child at our school was representative of a $20 monthly donation, this would be paid for in a matter of weeks. I for one would feel a lot more confident in Madrona’s ability to provide my children with the experience I am hoping for if I know there are funds available to subsidize needed expenditures. If someone broke into the school and took off with the computers, I want to know there is money available to replace them now…not when the school district can cover the loss. These are our children. We were happy to find out their names were drawn. Cough up the dough. Buying a few rolls of wrapping paper and a gift card from the Scrip table won’t cut it.

 - A concerned primary parent

Music Department News

Sno-King Solo/Ensemble

Fifteen Madrona Band students participated in this year’s Sno-King Solo/Ensemble festival, held at College Place Middle School on May 3.

Gabe Heckt, Axel Janssen, Joseph Eborall, Keegan Huffman, and Ken Weller’s brass quintet sounded great. Grace DeMun, Hannah Burson, Gina Anderson, and Maria Zima impressed all with their woodwind quartet. Small ensembles consisting of Lenara Litmonicich, Mckenzie Murphy, Grace Anderson, CJ Ortiz, Jocelyn Smarr, and Katelin Kobuke also worked hard and came way with some lasting memories.

Jazz Night

The seventh annual Madrona Jazz Night Auction/Fundraiser was a great success. Over 120 people came to see both Madrona Jazz Bands, along with ten alumni, present almost two hours of music. Close to $3,000 was raised to purchase new instruments and music, send kids to summer music camp, and to help pay for para-professionals to come in and work with kids of all musical abilities. Thanks to all the parents who either purchased or donated auction items.

Edmonds Arts Festival

Jazz Band I will be playing on Friday, June 13th at the Edmonds Arts Festival. We will be on stage at 2:30 at the Frances Anderson Center. Get off work early and come join the fun!

Woodway Elementary Field Trip

The Madrona Wind Ensemble is taking a morning field trip to Woodway Elementary on Thursday, June 12th. They will be presenting a 30-minute assembly showcasing some of their best songs and musicians.

Spring Concert Dates

Elementary Band Concert – May 28

• Beginning, Intermediate, & Advanced Bands
• Jazz Ensemble II

Elementary Orchestra/Choir Concert – May 29

• Beginning & Intermediate Orchestra/ Elementary Choir

Middle School Spring Concert – June 5

• Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble I, MS Orchestra, MS Choir - Matt Edwards

More Info

You Can Do It!

Q: My friends’ kids seem ready and able to do anything. How can I help my children develop more confidence?

A: Build a can-do attitude in your youngsters by expecting that they can do things. Kids can do more than you think! Doing everything for them sends the message that they’re helpless. Asking them to pitch in shows you believe in their abilities. When your children try a task, like helping with the laundry, resist the urge to take over at the first sign of trouble. Instead, show them how to do it themselves. Then, let them try it on their own, with your guidance. If your youngsters are unsure about how to do something, encourage them to figure it out by asking, “What do you think the next step should be?” They’ll realize they can think through problems by themselves.

-         From Home & School Connection

Attribute of Character for May

Perseverance

“The difference between perseverance and obstinacy is that one comes from a strong will, and the other from a strong won't.” ~Henry Ward Beecher

“When the world says, "Give up," Hope whispers, "Try it one more time." ~Author Unknown

“Nobody trips over mountains. It is the small pebble that causes you to stumble. Pass all the pebbles in your path and you will find you have crossed the mountain”.

~Author Unknown

Immunization Requirements for School Year 2008-2009

Varicella: New Chickenpox Requirement

As of July 1, 2008, proof of immunity to chickenpox is required of:

All children 16 months of age up to Kindergarten entry who are in childcare/preschool. These children need 1 dose of vaccine - parental documentation of disease is NO LONGER acceptable

All children attending Kindergarten. These children need 2 doses of vaccine -parental documentation of disease is NO LONGER acceptable

All children in 1st, 2nd & 6th grade. These children need 1 dose of vaccine – parental documentation of disease IS acceptable

Tdap Reminder: Requirement Advances One Grade

As of July 1, 2008, proof of Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis) vaccination is required of children who are 11 years old AND attending 6th or 7th grade, IF it has been five years since receiving a DTaP, DT or Td vaccine.

Hep B Reminder: 3 Dose Requirement

As of July 1, 2008, 3 doses of Hepatitis B vaccine administered at appropriate ages and intervals are now required for students attending Kindergarten through 11th grade.

Reminder: All school-aged children attending before-or after-school child care must meet the immunization requirements for their grade in school.

Please contact Jennifer May with any questions.

425-431-1098, mayj@edmonds@wednet.edu.

- Jennifer May

ASL Storytelling

Deaf Connection presents ASL Storytelling at the Barnes & Noble in University Village (Seattle) on Saturday, May 17 with Seth Ziegler. Storytelling begins at 11 am. Deaf, hard of hearing and hearing children are welcome! *Special thanks to the Childs Hearing League and Barnes and Noble for their support! Last date of the school year is June 14.

Center News

Kindergarten News

Ms. Rust’s Class

Although it is only May, in my mind the year seems to be drawing to a close already, and I am thinking back over the developments I've witnessed by volunteering in the classroom over the past several months. It's been a delight to be able to help out and feel in touch with what my child is learning. I'm appreciative of how well organized Ms. Rust has been, with projects ready for assembly etc., so that we can feel useful at supporting her to focus her attention where it best serves the students - on teaching! It's also rewarding to witness the children's emerging reading and math skills. Children who at the beginning of the year would answer "I don't know" to every question are now recognizing or sounding out words and playing team reading games. I am particularly impressed by the integrated approach to arithmetic, in which the kids experiment with math concepts in dice games, by sorting tokens or rubber animals, making graphs, and even elementary addition/subtraction in a much more interesting way than the flash card memorization I remember from my youth. Meanwhile, social skills are blooming and most, if not all, of the children seem to be developing multiple relationships that hopefully will serve to create an enjoyable summer of playdates and reconnections in the fall. And I look forward to future volunteerism with gratitude to have a school that encourages it.

-         Erika Jennings

Renaissance

The month of May has the Renaissance center taking field trips to Joanna Glover's home to make decorative garden stones. This is a fun time for students and parent chaperones. In Language Arts, the Numero Dos group will be reading nonfiction books and creating reports/projects about the books. This is always an eye-opening experience as children pick books about people or issues from around the world. – Anne Garing

Ohana

Come visit our garden in front of the 3rd building! There are peas, carrots, a tree, primroses, grape hyacinths, daffodils and tulips.

Writing poetry in Ohana’s garden!

The Ohana Center is working on cultural floats for Artwalk. They have also made paper kimonos, Mexican tin pictures and mosaics for the cultural theme of this year. Come visit us during Artwalk. They’re awesome!

Everybody in Jeanice’s language group is making family scrapbooks. They’re also learning different kinds of poetry. So far they’ve learned about acrostics, free verse, diamante, and similes. Robert’s groups are working with money during math and in language they’re working on questions and reading books about different cultures.

Thanks to all the parents who brought WASL snack--it was great! Hope everyone did good on the WASL!

Center News

daVinci

The Da Vinci Center has had lots of visitors in the last few weeks. Current middle school students, graduates of the Da Vinci Center, have returned to read excerpts from their Immigration Journals. Yaelle Kimmelman and Athena Nelson engaged their audiences with thoughtful and descriptive tales of life in America during the early 20th century. Students discussed how they had grown as writers since the 4th grade and the importance of not procrastinating when doing a long project!

Jill Nunemaker, artist-in-residence, has spent a lot of time with us recently. Students have studied the work of both Matisse and Chagall. A grant from the Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation paid for her time in our classroom. Join us for Art Walk and take a look at sketchbooks, collages and pastels! We’ll also be making “Greek” pts before the end of the year.

The Da Vinci Center partners with two primary centers for a variety of activities. Siri Haugen’s language arts group meets with Dan Stee’s language arts kids and Lynn McCabe’s meets with Jeanice Johnson’s students from the Ohana Center. Primary students have taught intermediate students how to finger weave and intermediate are helping younger students with reading and writing.

The end of the year is almost here! We have lots of traditional events to look forward to: DARE graduation, Camp Hamilton, the beach walk, 6th grade pool party and 6th grade graduation. – Lynne McCabe

Paw-Sal-Cha’l

Perhaps you have noticed the Octopus’ Garden Beneath The Sea, in the center windows, at the front of the school. Paw Sal Cha’l has been transformed into an underwater sea lab. The window mural or frieze is part of STORYPATH; a science and social studies unit that builds on their recent fieldtrip to the Seattle Aquarium. Students have developed character resumes and applications are posted in the hallway. Scientists, marine biologists, oceanographers, divers and research assistants will live in the sea lab. They are studying the environmental impacts on the Coral Reefs as they learn the social aspects of coexisting peacefully with one another in the sea lab. Each group has designed and built a model size area of the lab to be responsible for. The students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a variety of scenarios. Critical Incidences occur posing challenging effects for the group such as Oil Spills and Cohabitating with Messy Roommates. They have meetings to problem solve and brainstorm for solutions. Then they file research reports with the data they have collected. The students are having great fun with this and enjoy learning in The Sea Lab Storypath!

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week a few of the children shared the best part of having Deborah and Johanna for their teachers:

• Haley: They are really fun and make us laugh. They teach us new stuff each day.
• Annie: They are helpful and nice every single day!
• Isaac: They let us use laptops.
• Ethan: They conference with me to help me do my best.
• Josh: They are so kind and considerate!
• Gavin: They help me pass my levels.
• Konner & Carson: The parties!
• Jodi: If we get 20 Fuzzies we earn a party!
• Marissa: We’re having a pajama party!
• Shaelin, Lilly & Isabella: We love the fieldtrips!
• Brooks: Working together on Storypath is fun and getting to go to Camp Casey!

Also it is unanimous - all the children agree that Johanna and Deborah make the best bagels with cream cheese and peanut butter, jelly sandwiches EVER!

Thank you to all the teachers at Madrona! We appreciate everything you do for our children throughout the year! - Shellette Du Bois

Center News

Epicenter

The Epicenter has been working hard on the culmination of a yearlong study of ancient civilizations with a presentation of artifacts from ancient Egypt, Rome, Greece, China, India, Mesopotamia and Mesoamerica. The artifacts have been carefully prepared by the students and will be on display during Art Walk. Each civilization is summarized in a brochure and each artifact will have a table tent explaining the item displayed. The students have even made a trip to a local museum to see how to display and explain their items. Make sure you stop by to see this amazing collection of objects from the ancient world.

Students have also been working on an innovative writing/presentation program. They have chosen one object and have been making six different presentations or writing projects about the object. Each story must be from a different category of writing or presentation style such as letter, myth, fable, legend, story, essay, report, comic strip, advertisement, newspaper article, obituary, timeline, poster, song, video, PowerPoint, iMovie, monologue, puppet show, skit or play. In science students just turned in their fast fact books on simple machines. Each booklet had eight machines and included a diagram, how the machine was used and its mechanical advantage. Each student completed their own book and most, if not all, of the work was completed during class time. – Doug Fair

Intermediate Mariners Field Trip

It is no longer possible to send in permission forms for the Mariners field trip on June 4th. Thank you to everyone who sent in their money and permissions forms on time. And a special thanks to all the classroom field trip coordinators for their assistance. All permission forms should be left in my mailbox at this time. – BJ Stephenson

Animal Crackers

CLIMBER APPRECIATION UPDATE

Thanks from the DHH Preschool for all the supporters from Madrona for helping us figure out funding to get the new climber for the Preschool/Kindergarten playground!!! With the sale of the entertainment books and a substantial donation from Child Hearing League, we're going to reach our goal. The school district will fund the remainder necessary and we'll be ready to play in the Fall, for the beginning of the year. We have really missed the old climber and there has definitely been an empty spot where it used to be! There is a possibility we'll need parent support for the actual installation during the summer, so please stay tuned for more information. - Gary Elise PJ Mary

The Comets

The Comets said good bye to our wonderful student teacher. She will be missed here at Madrona as she moves on to her next steps in life. We talked about the weather during April, what a crazy month for weather. We had snow, rain, wind and sun so we were able to talk about most kinds of weather. May is going to be a busy month, we have two field trips planned, we will be going to Seattle Children's Theater to watch "Busy Town" and we are going to be going to the Seattle Aquarium. We will also be busy in June, we will be going to a farm with Miss Rust's class, we will be going to a picnic in Tacoma where we will be meeting with deaf students from many other schools. Have a happy May!

Aqua Center

Aqua Center is studying ocean animals. We are doing research and giving reports. We will go to the Aquarium on May 22nd and are very excited.

Martha’s Vineyard

DHH Kickball Club

Friday, May 16, 3:30 pm – 6:30 pm

Activities will include games and crafts. Dinner will be served at 5 pm. This is for all deaf, hard of hearing, CODA and hearing signers. The club meets in the gym. This year we are asking for a donation of $5 per child to cover cost of dinner. Please come and join in the fun! For more information/ questions, or if you want to help or have a story you want to share, contact Joanna Clearbrook (daisyjo@tmail.com) or Cheryl Kaler (KalerC@edmonds.wednet.edu. Please RSVP to teachers.

Center News & More

Middle School

Middle School is going on a field trip at the end of May to go see Roosevelt High School’s musical Me and My Gal. Permission slips will be going out soon.

Model Congress is on June 9th and our budding congress men and women will be presenting to their committees, debating, and voting on their bills that day. Middle school parents (10-20) are needed to help monitor the committees and set-up the cafeteria for a catered lunch. If you can help please contact Shana Lipscomb at shanalipscomb@msn.com.

There will be a meeting for parents interested in helping with 8th grade graduation on Thursday May 15th at 7:00pm in the library. We need parents to help with the floral decorations and the general decoration of the stage; the flowers for the students; refreshments; set-up and clean-up; and serving. Traditionally 7th grade parents serve at graduation. If you can help, please to come to the meeting on the 15th or contact Robbie Gaskin Robbie.gaskin@metrokc.gov or Sarah DeMun sdemun@comcast.net . – Sarah DeMun

New Start/End Time for School!

The Edmonds School District has determined that they will save over $200,000 in the transportation budget by standardizing the start & end times of all the District school. This means that next year Madrona K-8 will start at 9:20 AM & end school at 3:50 PM. This begins next fall.

5 Things You Never Knew Your Cell Phone Could Do!

Your mobile phone can actually be a life saver or an emergency tool for survival. Check out the things that you can do with it:

FIRST – Emergency

The Emergency Number worldwide for Mobile is 112. If you find yourself out of the coverage area of your mobile network & there is an emergency, dial 112 & it will search any existing network to establish the emergency number for you. This number 112 can be dialed even if the keypad is locked. Try it out.

SECOND - Have you locked your keys in the car?

Does your car have remote keyless entry? If you lock your keys in the car & the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their cell phone from your cell phone. Hold your phone about a foot from your car door & have the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your car will unlock. Distance is no object. You could be hundreds of miles away, & if you can reach someone who has the other "remote" for your car, you can unlock the doors (or the trunk).

THIRD - Hidden Battery Power

Imagine your cell battery is very low. To activate, press the keys:*3370#. Your cell will restart with this reserve & the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery. This reserve will get charged when you charge your cell next time.

FOURTH - How to disable a STOLEN mobile phone?

To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in the following digits on your phone: *#06#. A 15-digit code will appear on the screen. This number is unique to your handset. Write it down & keep it somewhere safe. When your phone gets stolen, you can phone your service provider & give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset so even if the thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won't get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can't use/sell it either.

FIFTH - Free Directory Service for Cells

Cell phone companies are charging us $1.00 to $1.75 or more for 411 information calls when they don't have to. Most of us do not carry a telephone directory in our vehicle, which makes this situation even more of a problem. When you need to use the 411 information option, simply dial: (800) FREE 411, or (800) 373-3411 without incurring any charge at all. Program this into your cell phone now.

The Bear Market

Madrona’s own “classified ads!”

Licensed Massage Therapy with Childcare available in downtown Mountlake Terrace. Swedish, Deep Tissue, Pregnancy, Injury Treatment and Craniosacral. For rates and availability please email euqueek@hotmail.com

I am raising money for a girl I am sponsoring in Cambodia. Her name is Bo and she is 8 years old. My parents are helping me sponsor Bo, but I want to raise some money by myself. So I have been drawing pictures that I am selling for $1 each. If you are interested in buying a picture, please email my mom at LindstromCPA@msn.com. My mom said we could collect money through her PayPal account if it were easier for the buyer. Here is an example of my drawings. I can then arrange to deliver your picture to your classroom. Thank you for your help!

 - Bridget Duffy, 1st grade, Ohana Center

If you’ve got something to sell, or a service to provide, post it here! Send ads for “The Bear Market” by the end of each month to: nancykaris@comcast.net

“Volunteers are not paid - not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless." --Author Unknown

Madrona Cooks!

Seared Halibut with Parmigiana Asparagus

- Serves 4, from Party Starters, www.foodnetwork.com,

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 (6-ounce) halibut steaks
• Salt & pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 16 spears young asparagus, wash & trimmed
• 1 small shallot, minced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

In a large bowl mix asparagus, garlic, shallots, & olive oil. Season, to taste. Lay prepared asparagus on a half sheet pan & roast until tender, about 10-15 min. Right before taking asparagus out of the oven, liberally top with freshly grated parmesan cheese. The heat of your pan should melt your cheese.

Meanwhile, season halibut with salt & pepper, dust with flour, shaking off excess. Heat butter & oil in sauté pan until it starts to brown. Lay steaks in pan & cook until golden brown on both sides, approx. 3 to 4 minutes per side.

To serve, place 4 pieces of asparagus on a plate, top with golden brown halibut steak. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil. Garnish with a sprig of chervil or chives

Submit recipes to: nancykaris@comcast.net

Bear Facts Web Site

The Madrona Bear Facts Web site (http://madronabearfacts.com) is YOUR reliable source of information about Madrona! Please contact Allan Townsend, for suggestions or concerns about the Web site. It is updated constantly with fresh information. And don’t forget the online Calendar – it’s a great way to check on Madrona events & meetings. - Allan Townsend, MIT Communications Director

Important dates and events to remember…

Save The Date!

• May 5-9 Teacher Appreciation Week!
• May 8 Art Walk
• May 9 Non-Student Day/Staff Retreat
• May 11 Mother’s Day
• May 16 Coffee Hour w/Lynda & Craig
• May 16 DHH Kickball Club
• May 17 ASL Storytelling
• May 19-22 Principal & VP Appreciation Week
• May 21 MIT Meeting (Nick Brossoit visit)
• May 23 Non-Student Day
• May 26 Memorial Day – no school
• May 28 Elementary Band Concert
• May 30 3rd Year Celebration
• May 31 Bear Facts deadline
• Jun 13 Primary Field Day
• Jun 14 ASL Storytelling
• Jun 15 Father’s Day
• Jun 18 Last day of school!

Bear Facts Newsletter

Many thanks to all who contributed to this newsletter! You’ve made this a great year for the Bear Facts! Our final deadline for the June issue (our last!) is May 31 & the issue will come out on June 4. Send to: nancykaris@comcast.net. - Nancy Karis

Scrip News

Welcome Spring! Support Madrona by buying gift certificates for your spring gardening and home improvement projects. We carry Sky Nursery, Home Depot, Lowe’s Hardware, and many others.

With teacher appreciation week, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and graduation time just around the corner, we have great gift ideas for all of the wonderful people in your life: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Starbucks, Bath & Body Works, Macy’s, Best Buy, Circuit City, iTunes, JoAnn’s, Michael’s, Sports Authority, Lowe’s and Regal theaters, many restaurants, and an assortment of other vendors!

If you will be traveling this summer, please remember to use scrip gift cards for all of your travel needs. Stop by the Scrip table outside the office or go on-line to the Bear Facts website and check out all of our vendors. Also, if you have a question about a specific vendor, please stop by the scrip table and inquire. – Linda Park