Puyallup School District POSTAL CUSTOMER NON-PROFIT ORG. 302 Second Street SE U.S. POSTAGE PAID N THIS ISSUE P. O. Box 370 TEK SERVICES I ECRWSS Puyallup, WA 98371 School name process begins .....5 Levy election February 7 ...... 6 Register to vote ...... 7 Puyallup Family Co-op ...... 9 Student racer wins contest ...... 10 CONNECTIONS Ninth graders can take WASL ... 11 Volume 11:3 Published for Puyallup School District's Community Partners for a Quality Future December 2005 Student mathematicians know more than the right answer A new elementary math curriculum in parents this fall to math information nights classrooms this fall erases the myth that to share about the new curriculum, which math is dull and unimaginative. meets state standards for what students should be learning at each grade level. “It is such a joy to see kids discussing, laughing, and even arguing about math on At Firgrove Elementary, students worked a daily basis,” said Karshner Elementary side-by-side on math lessons with their teacher Mike Stone. parents, using manipulatives such as counting cubes and colored disks. Nearly “Growing With Mathematics” in kinder- every classroom was full as educators shared garten through grade five, and “Connected about the math program in English and Mathematics” in grade six, encourage Spanish. In addition to a discussion book, reasoning, problem-solving, teamwork, workbook, and math journal, the curriculum and hands-on activities. Those add up to features multicultural books in which success, educators say, because students students learn about math in other cultures. go beyond knowing the right answer to apply their learning to real life. Growing With Mathematics “spirals” — or builds on the same math concept — Classrooms today are far different from several times each year. This helps with what many adults remember in their retention, as well as aids students who are childhood. Gone are the days when math absent during a lesson or don’t understand learning took place in a hushed classroom it the first time it is presented. with students sitting at desks lined in rows answering as many problems correctly on The use of visuals and hands-on materials a ditto as quickly as possible. Hunt Elementary students (from left) Marissa Robertson and to reinforce concepts is especially helpful Sheldon Cooper use colored disks to learn about fractions in to students in special education. These Walk into any elementary classroom in Carrie Brummer’s fifth-grade class. students also enjoy participating with their Puyallup and it is a busy place with unfamiliar problems and think of a number problem and to be patient while children peers in small group work in regular children interacting in small groups, of possible strategies to solve them. work out the answer. They also are education classrooms, said Educational relying on each other for math ideas. encouraged to ask students to explain how Specialist Linda Westpfahl. Teachers and building learning specialists On a recent day at Hunt Elementary, Alec they reached the answer — a process also introduce lessons, ask questions to Jones and Brittany Rose proved they know used on the annual Washington Assess- “For students who struggle with learning, encourage thinking and discussion, then more about fractions than what lies on ment of Student Learning (WASL). it takes them longer to translate ideas walk around the room to offer help. paper. The fifth graders and several beyond what they can touch, see, or feel. teammates in their group built a birdhouse “It’s so much quicker and easier to give The visual manipulatives make the “We are teaching them to think and reason from paper strips that they had to measure them the right answer, but asking them lots abstract concrete and they feel more mathematically,” said Colleen Shields, and cut to size on all sides using lengths of questions to help them figure it out successful.” executive director of elementary student listed in fractions. really works. They get it,” said Leona learning. Students are very skilled at using DeVous, who has a kindergartner and fifth Ideas of how parents can help children with computers and calculators to do rote Teachers are trained and parents are being grader at Hunt. math at home are available on the school calculations, she added, however employ- encouraged to make students aware there district Web site at www.puyallup.k12.wa.us/ ers today want graduates who can face are different ways to solve the same Hunt and other elementary schools invited ourcommunity/parentresources/. 2 December 2005 http://www.puyallup.k12.wa.us All Students Learning and Achieving

PUYALLUP SCHOOL DISTRICT Board of Directors Superintendent's Message Bruce F. Dammeier President Good financial management pays off (253) 370-7198 Holiday Greetings to All! It is a significant challenge to monitor Diana Seeley an education budget in a school district Vice President Those of you who have regularly followed with 21,000 students and 2,350 staff, and (253) 848-4028 my “Connections” articles will notice that I Tony Apostle provide a multitude of services to 31 schools Greg Heath am departing from my regular and person- and nine school support departments. There Legislative Representative ally passionate messages regarding the Superintendent are always many more things the district (253) 770-8797 improvement of student achievement. would like to do than it can afford. We have Instead, I want to take time in this issue to reduced class size and kept the reductions in Kathy Afflerbaugh (253) 840-1185 focus on the school district’s sound financial place; but it would be great to make them management — the backbone of sustaining smaller yet. Lloyd Freudenstein our current student learning programs and (253) 841-1599 staffing levels. The bond rating agencies cited several Good financial management is more than Dr. Tony Apostle reasons for their decisions to upgrade the just “knowing your limits.” The district is Superintendent I am pleased to share the news that property district’s bonds. Most important were spending taxpayer dollars and has a duty (253) 841-8769 owners in the Puyallup School District will actions taken in recent years to improve to make sure they are spent as intended. save approximately $35 million in bond student enrollment forecasts and imple- Every penny must be tracked and ac- District Mission District Mission interest over 20 years thanks to recent ment and seek out savings programs to counted for, whether it comes from the Supported by families and our diverse com- munity, the Puyallup School District challenges upgrades of district construction bonds by further increase the district’s financial federal or state treasury, vending ma- students to achieve their academic, creative, the nation’s two biggest bond rating firms, flexibility. Other factors cited by the credit chines, Sparks Stadium ticket sales, or the and physical potential. Moody’s and Standard and Poor’s. Like rating agencies were the district’s growing school lunch program. Citizens have a good personal financial credit scores, better population, the sound local economy, and right to know where their money goes. Connections Editorial Policy bond ratings, combined with positive bond strong voter support for schools. Connections is published periodically by the market conditions and the timing of the bond Many people deserve credit for the Puyallup School District as part of a communi- cations link between the district and the com- sale, result in lower overall borrowing costs. As you may recall, four years ago the budgeting and financial management munity. Its intent and purpose is to provide the district’s financial condition did not look as practices that have resulted in improved board and district staff a venue to inform com- Puyallup is now among the top 10 school good as it does today. Faulty enrollment bond ratings and perfect audits. Board munity members about programs, goals, and districts in the state credited with having forecasts led to an operating deficit, and our policy setting and oversight was a critical activities of public education in the Puyallup the best bond ratings. reserves fell below acceptable levels. With factor. Restoring fiscal balance and School District. Please direct questions or com- the help of hundreds of community mem- building an adequate reserve were top ments to Karen Hansen, director of communi- The good news about bond ratings followed bers, virtually every budget item was cations and executive services, PO Box 370, school board priorities for the past three Puyallup WA 98371; telephone (253) 841-8703; closely on the heels of our third consecutive reviewed and priorities set for fiscal years. Nearly 300 people from the or e-mail [email protected]. Re- perfect audit report from the state auditor. recovery. Within a year, reserves were community helped by participating in sponses, as appropriate, will be provided di- The audit found that our accounting and restored to acceptable levels, new and more budget priority review meetings to rectly to those who contact this office. financial practices complied with all state precise enrollment forecasting methods were provide advice to our fiscal staff. Special laws and regulations. “This audit report is adopted, and savings were achieved by recognition is deserved and must be Coordinator: Karen Hansen Editor: Susan Gifford significant and commendable,” in the words reducing spending in some areas while acknowledged to a strong fiscal staff who Technical Assistance: Dale Carrington of State Auditor Brian Sonntag. protecting instructional programs. provide indispensable leadership within Contributing Writers: Brynn Blanchard, the district family. Shanon Burke, Susan Gifford, Teresa Stover, and Chanel Studebaker. Science community night set January 10 Credit for our strong financial condition Puyallup School District No. 3 complies is also due to our building adminis- with all federal rules and regulations and Parents and students throughout the district be available to further explore the testable trators, and certificated instructional and does not discriminate or permit harassment are invited to attend a community night question. Science projects will be on classified support staff, who continue to on the basis of race, creed, color, marital designed to help students be successful in display to view and compare. Participants provide excellence in classrooms status, age, national origin, religion, or creating science fair projects. can also learn what judges look for and and throughout the district, even when disability. This holds true for all students who are interested in participating pointers on how to enhance science they have had to contend with resource in educational programs and/or This free event is scheduled from 6:30 to project display boards. limitations due to tight budgets. extracurricular activities. Inquiries 7:30 pm January 10 in the Exposition regarding compliance procedures may be Hall at the Puyallup Fairgrounds. Each year hundreds of students partici- The Puyallup School Board and district directed to the district's Title IX/RCW pate in the annual district science fair, administration are committed to continu- 28A.640 Officer and Section 504 The evening will begin with a presenta- which coincides with the spring fair. ing strong financial management and Coordinator (Larry Sera, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources) at tion by educators on how to take an accountability programs. Good fiscal 302 Second St., S.E., Puyallup, WA 98372. interest area and develop it into a testable For more information, contact the district’s management pays off — for our students, Phone: (253) 841-8645. science question. Hands-on activities will Science Resource Center at (253) 840-8970. our school system, and our taxpayers. All Students Learning and Achieving http://www.puyallup.k12.wa.us December 2005 3 Levy dollars help maintain staff, programs, and buildings In February citizens of our school district placed on taking care of what they had employees continue to value maintenance. will be asked to vote on a levy to replace and being resourceful. Throughout the The district’s facilities and grounds are the one that will expire in December 2006. Lloyd world, in fact, the degree of value placed well-cared for and well-maintained. If passed, levy funds will be used to Freudenstein on maintenance has been a predictor of a Wherever I go, I hear people talking about maintain our current staffing levels, Legislative nation’s vitality. After World War II, one Puyallup as a place with school buildings student programs in athletics and the arts, Representative sage predicted, “Show me the nail where that are attractive, neat, and clean. They and various safety measures. Some of the the broom hangs, and I will show you the stand as visible symbols of the value we money generated by the February levy will country that will recover the quickest.” place on our children, and also on the also be used to maintain our present West Germany proved the truth of his importance we place on our role as stew- school buildings and facilities. in this context suggests a different kind of prediction. With its history of strong ards of public resources. action. It suggests repairs and upkeep. It devotion to maintenance, Germany When we talk about maintaining our current suggests carefully looking after our developed a vibrant economy in relatively Our children deserve to attend school in staff and programs, we are talking about physical resources. It suggests long-term short order despite the devastation it well-maintained facilities. Even more preserving and continuing what we have. savings through timely attention to taking incurred during the war. importantly, they need to learn the value of About 20 percent of what we have now in care of the details of our 52 buildings, maintenance through our example. In our the Puyallup School District is paid for with which are inhabited by more than 22,000 What do these lessons of history teach fast-paced, consumer-driven society, we levy dollars. The February 7 special election students and staff every day. the patrons of the Puyallup School need to show them the importance of taking will allow voters to decide whether to District? As a member of the school care of the things we have. In our educa- continue to pay for that 20 percent of our This latter kind of maintenance is a critical board, I believe they implore me to be a tional world dominated by standards and operation after the current levy runs out. aspect of a healthy organization. It is also good custodian of our facilities. As a 29- tests, we need to be careful not to ignore one of the core values on which our nation year employee of this district, I tried to such time-honored values as initiative, When we talk about maintenance in was built. Historically, the United States apply that theme every day that I cleanliness, community, and public space relation to our facilities, we are also talking became strong and stayed strong in part reported to work. My recent visits to our — even if those values are not included on about preservation. However, maintenance because of the premium American people school sites have convinced me that our any state-mandated test. Aylen students learn about forces of flight QUEST second graders help revitalize Several glider planes touched down on the Aylen Junior High School campus salmon stream recently as part of the school’s seventh- grade “Forces of Flight” assembly. QUEST second graders recently set out to help revitalize Silver Creek located The planes were towed in trailers to the south of the Puyallup Fairgound’s silver school, then pulled onto the front lawn parking lot. The creek is part of the for students to view and learn more watershed off of South Hill. about math, science, and technology. Until recently, Silver Creek ran through The event was presented in cooperation a concrete tube until it spilled into the with the Puget Sound Soaring Associa- Meeker ditch. A short time ago, city tion and the Boeing Employees Soaring crews dug up the concrete making it Club. possible for the stream to run free.

Guest speakers from both groups taught Together with the Pierce County the seventh graders about four forces Conservation District’s “Stream Team,” that affect flying: lift, gravity, thrust, and the QUEST students walked to the drag. The guests also demonstrated stream and planted 260 small plants. flight with several objects, including Along with other community events, it is inflating a hot air balloon on stage, and hoped that this will help to renew the shared a video about a young woman stream and bring the spawning salmon who learned to fly a glider solo. back in abundance. QUEST thanks “Stream Team” staff for Photo at left: Aylen Junior High coordinating the event and the many seventh graders study a glider. parents who assisted with the planting project. 4 December 2005 http://www.puyallup.k12.wa.us All Students Learning and Achieving School bond update Kalles Junior High replacement project Students hold PE at fairgrounds during remodel moves forward The school bus rumbles through the deserted fairgrounds, which just two When the Kalles Junior High School months earlier was filled with the sights replacement opens in September 2007, and sounds of the Puyallup Fair. It rolls students will become a part of their own past the scone and lemonade stand and close-knit community within the larger winds its way past the big red barn, draft school population. horse building, and espresso stand before stopping in front of the two-story W.H. With the new school designed around Paulhamus Arena — home to Meeker the “houses” concept, seventh graders Elementary PE classes this year. will have their own wing. The same is true for eighth and ninth graders. Having PE at the Puyallup fairgrounds Students will also see increased teaming became a necessity for Meeker as soon as between classes, improved resources for construction moved forward this fall on a special education, and science class- new 4,000-square-foot multipurpose rooms designed specifically for the room. The voter-approved school bond science curriculum. project also includes modernization of the entire 35,000-square-foot school building, Bids are scheduled to be opened this built in 1927. month for the Kalles Junior High replacement project — the first major To make room for construction work construction project funded by the 2004 inside of the classrooms, two classes at a voter-approved bond. time are being housed temporarily in the school’s old gym, or multipurpose room. According to project manager Will The students remain there for about three Meeker Elementary students eagerly head toward their PE class Samuelson, the next step will be for the weeks before returning to their modern- held this year at the Puyallup fairgrounds. school board to approve the award of ized classrooms and making room for the the contract to the low bidder. A next two classes. This rotation is sched- than our other gym. It is awesome!” which we’re working on the new addition, groundbreaking ceremony is expected to take place in mid-January. uled to continue through May for grades as well as two classrooms in the north one through six. All other classrooms will Meeker Elementary has also temporarily wing at the east end.” Over the next two months, the public be modernized between June and August shifted some of its school assemblies and can expect to see the contractor during the summer 2006 break. large group meetings or gatherings, such The new boiler room is being constructed, mobilizing a trailer, fencing, and as the school’s annual spring science fair, and workers are also doing plumbing, equipment on the site. With the old multipurpose room being to the nearby Pioneer Park Pavilion. mechanical, and electrical work in the used as classrooms, and with some of the The Kalles Junior High School replace- attic. “You could say that work is going on playground space taken over by construc- ment project marks the first of several tion trailers and equipment, the school ran The Meeker renovation project began in above and around all the classes,” said new school projects to begin in 2006. out of room to house PE classes. Thanks June with the pilings being drilled, along Lybecker. This phase will continue According to Debra Aungst, assistant to a partnership between the Puyallup Fair with other necessary site work. By the through the end of January. superintendent of education support, and the Puyallup School District, the time school started in September, the “All 2004 bond projects have either students have their PE classes at the foundation for the new multipurpose room The next phase of the project involves been accelerated or are being done as fairgrounds every Tuesday and Friday. had been poured. Temporary walls in the moving the classes in and out of the originally scheduled. It appears the Daily recess is still held on a small existing multipurpose room were built to temporary classrooms in the old multipur- construction market is stabilizing, and playground space at Meeker. provide the space for classes whose pose room in quick three-week rotations. that is good news. I’m just thrilled at permanent areas would be remodeled. “Although we will have professional how smoothly everything is going and “Every child I’ve spoken to regarding the movers to transfer the large items between want to thank the community for their situation is absolutely thrilled and really support of our schools.” enjoys PE at the Fair,” said Principal Anne In early November, the selected contractor classrooms, our Meeker PTA has offered Hoban. “It’s an adventure to them. They CORP Inc. started construction on the new to help teachers move,” Hoban said. “PTA New Elementary Schools #22 and #23 get to take the bus to go to the Fair, which multipurpose room, as well as the class- members have volunteered the additional are scheduled to start construction in is an exciting place to be.” room modernizations. According to assistance of their spouses and older spring. Construction on Junior High #7 project manager Dewey Lybecker, “This teenagers as needed. This help will will begin in fall 2006. The Aylen Junior Sixth grader Tyler Thiel concurs. “It is really project is being carried out in eight especially be appreciated as it will be a High School replacement project will fun there, and I like the gym. It is a lot better phases. Going on now is phase one, in pretty tight schedule.” start in late fall. All Students Learning and Achieving http://www.puyallup.k12.wa.us December 2005 5 New classroom wing takes shape at Fruitland Elementary School Framing on the new eight-classroom addition at Fruitland Elementary School accelerated this fall. The 11,228-square-foot addition and remodel project began in June and is scheduled for completion in summer 2006. The addition is located at the south end of the east wing of the building and will eliminate the need for eight portables.

As of last month, the framing of the walls and roof was complete. Work was expected to start soon on the rafters, as well as electrical and mechanical construction.

Other improvements that started construction last summer as part of the Fruitland remodel include a new bus loop, relocation of the school’s covered play area, and a new kindergarten classroom. The project is funded by the 2004 voter-approved school bond. Naming process begins for new schools Poster winners show how It might be a name for a geographical place, like Firgrove According to school board policy, school names can exercise leads to good health Elementary School or Puyallup High School. Or, it could reflect geographic characteristics of the area where the Elementary students know that exercise leads to a be in honor of a person, such as Rogers High School or school is located. A school can also be named after healthy lifestyle. They are also learning, and sharing Ferrucci Junior High School. persons who have attained local, state, or national with others through art, that there are four factors that significance and prominence. contribute to being physically fit: frequency of With construction starting early next year on three new exercise, intensity of exercise, type of exercise, and schools in the district, the advisory committee for school “Naming of a public facility is an amount of time spent exercising (FITT). names will start work early in 2006 on the school naming important opportunity for the commu- process. nity to honor people or to set the Students in grades four through six competed this fall context for the school around impor- in a districtwide “FITT” poster contest coordinated by Executive Director of Facilities Rudy Fyles is in the tant historical elements in the district,” elementary PE staff. The five winning posters, selected process of forming the school naming advisory commit- said Fyles. from a pool of more than 50 entries, hang in gyms at tee. Individuals interested in serving on the committee are schools where the student winners attend. encouraged to contact Fyles at (253) 841-8772. The committee will review the Rudy Fyles submitted names and their rationale. Winners are: Gabe Carroll, Grade 4, Stewart Elemen- One-third of the committee will consist of community At least two public forums will be held to gather tary; Kathleen Morford, Teacher; Amanda Kohler, members, one-third will be students, and one-third will be community input on the suggested names. Finally, a Grade 5, Hilltop Elementary; Natalie Phillips, Teacher; district staff. The advisory committee also will have three short list of five to seven names will be presented to the Joshua Bozich, Grade 5, Zeiger Elementary; Gail subcommittees — one for each of the new schools. school board. “The committee will begin work on the Lovering, Teacher; Courtney Couch, Grade 6, Pope naming of these schools in March,” said Fyles. “We Elementary at the Emerald Ridge High campus; Sue New Elementary Schools #22 and #23 are slated to open hope to present names for each school to the school Armstrong, Teacher; and Kassandra Wright, Grade 6, in 2007, and Junior High School #7 is scheduled to open board by May.” Firgrove Elementary; Lyndi Anglin-Baublits, Teacher. in 2008. Based on the selected school name, the tone is set. When Educating students about FITT is part of the state’s “The naming committee for a school is one of the first the principals are hired for the three schools, one of their Grade Level Expectations, or information students are steps toward building an individual school community first jobs is to go through the process to select the school expected to know at certain grade levels, in health and and its leadership,” Fyles said. colors and mascot. fitness. “We praise all of the students who worked on FITT posters and continue to encourage people of all Also involved on the advisory committee is Executive “The naming of a school is one of the most important ages to stay healthy and fit!” said Rick Wells, director Director of Secondary School Leadership Casey Cox. He aspects of building a new school,” said Cox. “You are of health, fitness, and athletics. said the committee will first determine methods that will creating your entire culture — your whole identity — be used to generate ideas for school names — for around the naming of the school. The school name sets the To view the winning posters, visit the Puyallup School example, the types of publicity or contests. theme for how you conduct your educational programs.” District Web site at www.puyallup.k12.wa.us/. 6 December 2005 http://www.puyallup.k12.wa.us All Students Learning and Achieving Special election February 7, 2006 Voters to consider School Programs and Operation Levy Every year, local voter-approved school School districts have the option levy dollars pay for about 20 percent of to submit two- or four-year the school district’s day-to-day operating Where do schools spend their money? levies. The Puyallup School expenses to support items not funded or District chooses to submit four- under-funded by the state. Where do schools get their money? year levies because they are more cost-efficient and allow Simply put, the levy pays for about one in for better long-range planning. five staffing positions. These include The costs of the special teachers, classroom assistants, and other election are shared with staff who educate the more than 21,000 neighboring school districts students in 31 schools across the district. also on the four-year system. Levy dollars also support classroom Levy propositions require a 60 textbooks and materials, safe and secure (15% other expenses such as utilities, percent supermajority to pass. schools for students and staff, lower class property insurance, liability insurance, Absentee ballots will be mailed sizes, extracurricular programs and textbooks and supplies, and fuel) on Friday, January 20. activities, special programs and services, and transportation and support services. For more information, Graphic design by Dale Carrington To maintain the district’s current level of including a slide show about these programs and operating costs, voters Directors unanimously agreed September The proposed annual tax rate is $3.43 per the levy featuring photographs taken at are being asked in the February 7, 2006 12 to include the four-year “School $1,000 of assessed value, which is two schools around the district, visit the special election to consider a four-year tax Programs and Operation Levy” on the cents less than the rate approved by voters Puyallup School District Web site at levy that replaces one approved in 2002. special election ballot. The levy replaces in 2002. The levy is for a fixed dollar www.puyallup.k12.wa.us or contact Karen the maintenance and operations levy that amount and does not fluctuate with Hansen, director of communications and The Puyallup School District Board of expires at the end of the 2006 calendar year. property reassessment. executive services, at (253) 841-8703.

Questions and answers about the replacement levy

The following are like teachers, classroom materials, Q: Why does our school district need a local tax levies for schools to be some frequently transportation, and extracurricular School Programs and Operation Levy? approved by voters within the school asked questions and activities. Levy fees account for approxi- A: The state legislature’s formula for basic district boun-daries. Because the answers about the School Programs and mately 20 percent of the district’s education falls below the current levels levy automatically expires after four Operation Levy that will appear on the operating budget. The remainder comes of staffing and services provided by the years, the district must return to February 7, 2006 special election ballot. from state funding (74 percent), federal school district. To make up the differ- voters every four years to ask if the Additional questions and answers will funding (5 percent), and other sources (1 ence, the district, like many others in the levy should be renewed. appear in the January “Connections” and percent). state, must submit levies to voters in an also on the district Web site at effort to maintain acceptable levels of Q: Is there an exemption for senior www.puyallup.k12.wa.us/. To submit By contrast, a bond pays for capital staffing and services. citizens? additional questions or comments about projects — mainly new construction and A: Those who are 61 years of age or the levy, please e-mail remodeling on existing buildings, but Q: Is this a new tax? older and whose household income is [email protected] or call also technology and infrastructure A: No, the levy replaces the existing less than $35,000 may qualify for an (253) 841-8703. projects. The money from the last bond maintenance and operations levy, exemption from all or part of this election, held in February 2004, is which expires at the end of 2006. levy. Regardless of age, persons who Q: What is the difference between a bond funding the construction of five new have a disability that prevents them and a levy? schools, the remodeling and modern- Q: Why is the levy on the ballot for from being employed may also A: A levy provides money to help the ization of five more schools, as well as replacement? qualify for this exemption. Informa- district fund day-to-day school pro- districtwide technology initiatives, A: The local levy provides the portion of tion is available by contacting the grams and operations. It bridges the gap special education classroom modifica- Puyallup’s educational programs and Senior Citizen and Disabled Persons between state funding and the cost of tions, and building infrastructure and support for those programs not paid Exemption Department Hotline at current programs and pays for things lifecycle projects. for by the state. State law requires all (253) 798-2169. All Students Learning and Achieving http://www.puyallup.k12.wa.us December 2005 7 Students of all ages study elections process Registering to vote It all started with a story called “Class- vote for Hannah in Pierce County room Discussion” read in class several Brain.” To register to vote in Pierce County, years back. The story is about children in applicants must: an old school who learn that the school When some of the board is considering closing their school students suggested • Be at least 18 years old by the date because it is old and in need of repair. bringing gifts for of the next election their classmates to • Be a United States citizen and a In the story, the class officers lead an encourage them to Pierce County resident effort to save their school. “Our students vote a certain way, • Not presently have civil rights can really relate to the piece because Barrett explained denied as a result of a felony Spinning is an old school,” said sixth- special interest conviction grade teacher Jill Barrett. “After reading groups and led a the story, each class I’ve taught has asked discussion on Voter registration forms are available at to have an election.” “buying” votes. each of the Puyallup School District’s 31 The students schools, as well as at public libraries, fire The students elect a president, vice decided to stick stations, city clerks and state offices, and president, treasurer, and secretary. In the with signs and the Pierce County Election Department. early days of this year’s campaign at buttons. Forms may also be accessed on the Spinning Elementary, nearly half of the Internet at www.co.pierce.wa.us/auditor or class was vying to be president. That “It can be tricky, by calling the Election Department at number dwindled to six in the days before getting kids to vote (253) 798-7430 or 1-800-446-4979. the vote. on merit rather than popularity,” Barrett This year’s elections lesson, timed near acknowledged, but the November 7 general election, taught all the presentations students about campaign styles, how to and speeches were make a good presentation, and what wonderful. They makes a strong candidate. Students made did an amazing posters to hang on the walls, and some job.” made buttons or small signs to give away. They also wrote speeches, tunes, and Vice President slogans to support their platforms. Emily Brown Spinning Elementary students (from left) Emily pledged to listen to Spinning Elementary is just one of several Brown, Hannah Brain, and Darian Nieves design other people’s schools that have been incorporating campaign posters while teacher Jill Barrett opinions and make Mail-in voter registrations must be elections lessons into the classroom. discusses the elections process. the classroom a postmarked 30 days before the next better place. election. If registering by mail and it is At Rogers High, Advanced Placement classes!” said Iverson. “I was very Secretary Darian Nieves, who said the the first time registering to vote in Government teacher Rod Iverson held encouraged in this expanded interest, lesson taught him to speak in front of Pierce County, applicants must submit class discussions and mock elections on particularly because this was not an people, promised to “make it a fun year,” current, valid proof of identification. the November 8 ballot measures, pre- election year for Congress nor the presi- and Treasurer Brianna Lemos ran in order Enclose a copy of one of the following sented lessons on special interest groups, dency.” to make sure sixth graders had a great last with the voter registration form: A and taught teenagers how the official year at Spinning. The class officers plan current and valid photo ID or a current voter’s pamphlet is a resource for better Elementary, junior high, and high schools on making that happen by working with utility bill, bank statement, government understanding the initiatives and candi- across the district are also active in their teacher to plan fun activities through- check, paycheck, or other government dates. Many of his students are 18 and publicizing voter registration for the out the year. document that shows name and address. registered voters, sparking interesting upcoming special election February 7, debates and discussions, he said, espe- 2006. Most of the newly elected class officers Pierce County residents who have cially about initiatives that had direct said they don’t have much interest in being lived here at least 30 days before an impacts on their lives such as 901 (anti- While not of voting age yet, Spinning politicians when they grow up. Lemos election may register to vote in person smoking) and 912 (repeal of gas taxes). sixth-grader Hannah Brain won her wants to be a dentist, and Nieves wants to up to 15 days before the election at classroom’s presidential race. “I had a be a singer. the Pierce County Election Depart- “While it was my intent to spend only part PowerPoint presentation,” she said ment, 2401 South 35th Street, Room of the period on the election, interest level proudly. Her dad helped come up with her “I’d do it,” said Brain. “It would be a little 200, Tacoma, WA. These applicants and lively discourse of the issues took us campaign slogan with a play on the words chaotic, but fun. I could be the first must vote by absentee ballot only for right to the end of the period — in both of her name, “Make the smart choice — woman president!” the next election. 8 December 2005 http://www.puyallup.k12.wa.us All Students Learning and Achieving Meeker Elementary Students help needy children enjoy holidays seeks volunteer readers The early morning darkness enveloped Emerald Ridge High School as Heather Meeker Elementary School is in need of Renkert and fellow members of the school’s regular volunteers for its “Eagles Nest” Interact service club arrived on campus. reading program. Volunteers are needed Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays With glitter-decorated banners in hand, club from 9 to 10 am, 12 to 12:30 pm, and 2 members walked the deserted hallways, to 3 pm. Volunteers are needed to read stopping at areas with good views from both with children in second, third, fourth, the upper and lower floors to post the signs and fifth grades. For more information encouraging their classmates to donate to an or to volunteer, contact Barbara eight-day toy and supplies drive. Schmitten or Gail Miller at Meeker Elementary at (253) 841-8738. These teens woke up early this November morning to launch their donation drive so that elementary students in need around QUEST testing dates the district could enjoy a brighter holiday season filled with new toys, stuffed set for first graders animals, stockings and stuffers, new QUEST is a program for highly capable books, puzzles, and games. elementary students in the Puyallup School District. “It’s great that we can help other families in need and give them a holiday this year,” First grade students with a parent form said Renkert. on file will be administered ability and achievement tests at the QUEST The Interact Club at Emerald Ridge, sponsored by the South Hill and Puyallup Emerald Ridge High Interact Club members display items collected building in January. Parent and teacher in their annual Giftmakers drive (Back row from left: Krystal Bjork; evaluations, student work samples, and Rotary clubs, is one of many student ability and achievement test scores are groups that assisted this year in collecting Stephanie Steuby; Advisor Patti McMullan; and Coldeane Graham. considered by the Student Selection items for or working at the 19th annual (Front row from left): Bethany Luckey and Heather Renkert. Committee to determine which students Puyallup Giftmakers event held earlier this children while parents shopped. They also by reading stories to children as parents will benefit most from placement in the month. The club also held fundraisers and served as “personal shoppers” to help waited to enter the shopping area. “This program. Selected first-grade students sent letters to area businesses requesting parents select a new toy, stuffed animal, makes me feel so good that I’m doing will begin attending pullout classes the donations for the project, which provides book, game or puzzle, and stocking with something for others and my commu- second semester of the year. gifts at the holidays to children in need stuffers for each of their children. nity,” said 10-year-old Audrey Birklid, a throughout the school district. fifth-grade student representative on the In the pullout program, selected students Several Girl Scouts and their leaders also student council. spend one full day per school week at Brouillet Elementary set up a “giving tree” serve on the Giftmakers Board of Direc- the enrichment center located behind near the school’s front entrance and asked, tors and make presentations about the Last year the program provided holiday Maplewood Elementary. The goal of this among other things, for new children’s project each year at Puyallup City Council gifts to more than 750 school district program is to provide challenges for games. Meeker Elementary placed a large meetings and various community groups. children identified through the district’s students of high ability, academic Giftmakers box in its front lobby that Senior Girl Scouts also coordinated book free and reduced lunch program and aptitude, or unique creative thinking quickly overflowed last month with and stocking drives this year and managed counselors’ referrals. ability. Staff, parents, students, and games, dolls, cars, and stuffed animals. the Giftmakers store. community members can make student Ballou Junior High collected new holiday While the program is driven by students, referrals to QUEST. Parent Permission stockings, and the Emerald Ridge Key Family Career Community Leaders of it would not be possible without the efforts for Assessment forms, available at all Club collected gifts especially for teens. America, a national service organization of staff, community members, and busi- elementary schools or the QUEST with a local chapter made up of Ballou nesses who give time and money each year office, must be completed by the parent Rogers High JROTC set up an oversized Junior High and Rogers and Emerald Ridge to the project. A list of those volunteers is and submitted to QUEST before the box to collect gifts last month in the South high school students, volunteered for the on the district Web site at selection process can take place. Hill Mall. The members also helped park second year in a row. Students took www.puyallup.k12.wa.us/. cars this year at the two-day Giftmakers Polaroid photos of the children in the For more information, contact the event at Immanuel Lutheran Church across waiting area, then helped the youngsters Puyallup High sophomore Rachel Rhodes, QUEST office at (253) 841-8751 or visit from Puyallup High School. decorate frames to showcase their pictures who serves on the Giftmakers board and the school district Quest Web page at as a gift for their parents. coordinated this year’s book drive, said, www.puyallup.k12.wa.us/ Puyallup High Key Club members and “The holiday season would not be the studentprograms/academic/quest.cfm/. area Girl Scouts, many of whom attend Mt. View Elementary School’s Student same without giving my time to this event. schools around the district, babysat Council also helped at this year’s event I am excited to serve the families.” All Students Learning and Achieving http://www.puyallup.k12.wa.us December 2005 9 Co-op promotes teamwork, learning in multi-age classrooms Ask Julia Bowman what she likes best children especially enjoy monthly trips to about school and the first-grader will go Meridian Hills and Alterra Clare Bridge to on and on about her favorite things at the meet with their senior citizen “oldster” Puyallup Family Co-op. buddies.

“I like that I get to choose from sewing, By linking the trips to instruction, class- technology, construction, art, and a lot of room lessons take on a greater signifi- other things to do. And it’s really fun cance. Students in the fifth- and sixth- having my parents at school.” grade class, for example, have taken three- day, two-night camping trips along the Upon entering one of the Co-op class- Lewis and Clark Trail while learning about rooms housed on the Firgrove campus, it’s it in class. They have also gone to Beacon common to see groups of students working Rock, the core of an ancient volcano in the together around the room. In the multi-age heart of the Columbia River Gorge classrooms that the Co-op offers, parents National Scenic Area, to study Washington and staff say this teamwork forms the foundation for a collaborative learning environment. “We were already active weekly volunteers in his classroom, and Now in its ninth year, the Co-op has the Co-op offered a lot of activities expanded from one classroom of first and that parent volunteers make second graders to a program serving possible.” kindergartners through sixth graders. The Parent Anna Bowman program is open to all students in the district.

Except for students enrolled in the all-day state geology and geography. Upon kindergarten program, the students are Puyallup Family Co-op parent Bobbi Shaver helps kindergartners returning from the trip, students often do divided into multi-age classrooms. form words. PowerPoint presentations to demonstrate program commit to being involved in the through a friend who alerted them to an what they have learned. Typically, they spend two years with the academic lives of their children. They sign opening when their son, Michael, was in same teacher and peers. It becomes a a contract — 90 hours for one student, 135 third grade. “All of the teachers I’ve met while I’ve continuous process, so from June to hours for two students, and 158 hours for been involved with the Co-op have really September the students only need a quick three students enrolled in the program. “We were really happy with his regular inspired me,” said Frank. “I’m now in review because the teacher already knows Parents usually don’t have trouble meeting classroom and really liked the school he graduate school to become a teacher.” where the students stand academically. the commitment because there are many was attending,” said Anna Bowman. ways they can be involved, and different “After a tour of the Co-op, though, we For Michael Bowman, now a seventh Daily routines are known to the students, family members can participate in class- decided to enroll him. We were already grader, the Co-op was a great experience. and most classes use peer tutoring to help room activities and school leadership. active weekly volunteers in his classroom, “The Co-op is really friendly because you students learn from each other. and the Co-op offered a lot of activities get the same teacher two years in a row, The Bowmans, whose daughter, Julia, is in that parent volunteers make possible.” and you get to go on a lot more field trips Families with children enrolled in the first grade, learned about the program in a year. You also stay with the same Students involved in the program fare well friends for several years so you get to academically, with test scores for students know your classmates well.” Puyallup Family Co-op sets tours and in the program surpassing the average state and district scores. The Puyallup Family Co-op currently has information nights for 2006-07 97 students in four classrooms. There is a “Research shows that parent involvement waiting list and a lottery process used to The Puyallup Family Co-op is providing 13, 2006. can make a big difference in student fill openings when they occur. tours and information nights about its achievement, and the success we’ve seen program for the 2006-2007 school year. Information nights are scheduled in the with our students and their families being “The Co-op has parent volunteers helping Firgrove Library beginning at 6:30 involved really supports that,” says first- and teachers effectively impact student learning Attendance at one of the following tours February 15, 6 pm March 9, and 7 pm second-grade Co-op teacher Amy Hedges. every day,” said Firgrove Principal Guy and an information night is required to March 21, 2006. Kovacs. “A close-knit learning community complete the enrollment process: Community-based field trips are also a big is built, they have created fund-raising to For more information or to sign up for a draw for many families. Traci Frank, the support monthly field trips, and family Tours are scheduled at 9 am January 9 tour and information night, contact PTA liaison, and a parent of two children meetings are held regularly to help build and 30; February 13 and 27; and March Firgrove Elementary at (253) 841-8733. enrolled in the program, finds that her friendship and commitment.” 10 December 2005 http://www.puyallup.k12.wa.us All Students Learning and Achieving Puyallup High student racer wins Microsoft competition When Jeannine Johnson was surfing the Gates congratulated the five finalists and she was announced Internet during her summer break, she met with each one personally to talk about as the grand prize had no idea it would take her on a path their accomplishments. “It’s a great day winner. which would end with her meeting Bill for me to hear all of these inspiring Gates, visiting ESPN sports headquarters stories,” he said. Writing the 300- in Connecticut, having lunch or dinner word essay wasn’t with a professional athlete in New York Short videos featuring each of the that difficult, said City, and appearing on an ESPN2 finalists, including film clips taken of Johnson, especially television show. Johnson at Puyallup High School, were since her favorite shown during the awards ceremony. subject in school is Johnson, a Puyallup High School sopho- English. She more, found a site advertising the “Start The teenager submitted a 300-word essay attributes her Something Amazing” awards sponsored by outlining how Microsoft technology has fondness for English Microsoft and entered an essay contest allowed her to race her junior dragster to her ninth-grade about people who use Microsoft technol- throughout the United States and Canada English teacher at ogy to pursue their passion. while still maintaining a 3.8 GPA. She has Ballou Junior High a Microsoft program School, Lorraine In a ceremony on that allows her to hook Hirakawa. November 10 at up a computer to her car Microsoft’s and check race data such “She taught me a lot headquarters in as speed, timing, and my freshman year,” Redmond, the 15- settings. She also takes Johnson said. “She year-old was her laptop with her made it really named the when competing in races interesting.” national grand across the country to prize winner from keep up on her home- While her grades in among a field of work. English are always five finalists in high, Johnson is also the awards “Lacking the technology doing well in her program. She met that has been provided Jeannine Johnson, winner of the Start Something Auto Tech class at with Microsoft by Microsoft, our Amazing award sponsored by Microsoft, races her Puyallup High Chairman and capabilities would be junior dragster throughout the United States and School. She lives on Chief Software limited, not only South Hill and travels Canada. Architect Bill Microsoft Chairman and Chief academically but also in down to the valley Gates and won Software Architect Bill Gates our hobby and love of each day to attend numerous prizes. congratulates Jeannine Johnson. racing,” Johnson wrote faced a myriad of health problems as a Puyallup because of its automotive program. in her essay — one of result. While she beat intestinal and “This is so exciting for me,” she said. “It’s more than 1,000 submitted in the competi- respiratory problems as an infant, one of When she first signed up for the automo- unbelievable. It’s going to be such an tion around the country. the many operations she had to face left tive course, Johnson said she was nervous. opportunity.” her with a damaged right leg. The growth “You don’t really know what you know Her love of racing started early. Her father plates in her right leg stopped growing, until you do it,” she said. As the grand prize winner, Johnson will took her to the track when she was a little and she endured two painful procedures to be featured as part of the national Start girl, and she has never really left. “I loved lengthen the bones. While her legs are still Johnson races locally at Pacific Raceways Something Amazing ad campaign. She it from the moment I saw junior dragsters,” not the same length, Johnson has been near Maple Valley and Bremerton Race- also receives numerous prizes for being Johnson said. able to overcome the pain and difficulties. ways. She has also competed throughout a winner in the sports and games the country and in Canada. category of the competition, including Johnson started asking for a junior “I’ve been dealt a lot of hard cards when I all-expense paid trips to ESPN’s facili- dragster at age three and persisted until was young, so when I get something good, Johnson’s parents were all smiles as they ties in Connecticut and New York City her parents finally relented. She started it’s like ‘yeah,’” she said. watched their daughter field questions and $5,000 in Windows technology. Her racing at age nine. from numerous press people gathered at story will also be featured in Rolling Her father, Bill, said the fact that good the grand prize announcement. Stone, National Geographic, ESPN, and She is happy pursuing her passion and things are coming to his daughter doesn’t Entertainment Weekly magazines. The hopes to make a career of racing. surprise him. “She’s been special.” The “This is just amazing,” said her father. Puyallup student was the youngest two have worked side-by-side over the person nationwide to be named one of Things have not always been so bright for years on the junior dragster. He and his More photos of Johnson are on the district’s the five finalists. Johnson. She was born premature and wife, Miyong, were in the audience when Web site at www.puyallup.k12.wa.us/. ng All Students Learning and Achieving http://www.puyallup.k12.wa.us December 2005 11 Automotive program receives recertification Puyallup High School’s automotive technology training and their parents,” said NATEF Chairman Donald Seyfer. program has again received national certification follow- “Because this program increases cooperation between ing a rigorous evaluation of areas such as curriculum, local education and industry leaders, it gives added instruction, and equipment. assurance that Puyallup High School’s graduates will be employable entry-level technicians. Students benefit from the recertification in many ways including employment potential, auto manufacturer “As a result,” Seyfer continued, “the motoring public will support, and the ability to simultaneously earn both high benefit since better repair technicians will join the work school and college credit, said Puyallup High Automotive force.” teacher Larry Turner. Between 150 and 180 students enroll in Puyallup High’s The school received recertification from the National program each year, said Turner, and about half of those Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) who participate all three years pursue automotive careers and the National Institute for Automotive Service beyond high school. “Our program emphasizes employ- Excellence (ASE). NATEF first certified the three-year ability skills, leadership, problem solving, as well as program in 2000. automotive skills,” Turner said.

To achieve this coveted recognition, Turner said the program Junior Ashley Middlekauff, a student in the advanced underwent several months of intense evaluation in the areas automotive class, is eyeing a career in tire installation and of curriculum, instruction, facilities and equipment, adminis- suspension checks. She said the high school shop is “very trative support, instructor certification, student placement, complete — we have everything we need to learn.” and articulation agreements with post-secondary programs that spell out requirements for students who wish to transfer According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, jobs to a particular post-high school program. such as automotive service professionals will be plentiful for persons who finish training programs in high school, For students, the certification identifies what it takes to have a vocational or technical school, or community college. quality program that meets national standards. For automotive shop owners, it assures them of getting quality job applicants Turner said there are about 20 NATEF certified automo- whose training is current, complete, and applicable. tive programs in Washington with about half of those Automotive students Ashley Middlekauff and being traditional high school programs. The other half are Mark Wolff learn hands-on repair skills. “This is great news for automotive-minded young people either skills centers or post-secondary schools. Ninth graders can sign up to take the WASL in spring For the first time this spring, ninth graders will have Ninth graders can also choose to just take one or Another consideration is that first time students who the option to take the reading, writing, and math sections two of the sections, said Bob Silverman, executive take the WASL, whether in ninth or tenth grade, can of the Washington Assessment of Student Learning director of assessment and accountability. Washington earn a “scholar mark” on their transcripts if they (WASL). students get five chances to take and pass each of the receive a level four (the highest) on all subjects. This . WASL content areas. If a ninth grader chooses to take scholar mark can have a positive influence on scholar- Sign-ups are scheduled to take place January 3-20, 2006 one or more sections of the test, it counts as one of ships and post-high school educational and career via the Internet and by phone. To register, call 1-866- their five attempts. pursuits. The chance to get the scholar mark is only 400-9275 or go to www.k12.wa.us/waslregistration/. available the first time a student takes the test. “The state’s recommendation is that only kids who think Beginning with the Class of 2008, all students must pass they have a good chance at passing should take the test,” The tests are administered one week in March and one the reading, writing, and math sections of the WASL in Silverman said. week in April on a state-required schedule. Reading is order to graduate. The Class of 2010 will also have to tested March 13-14, writing March 15-16, math April pass the science assessment. The benefit in taking the test as a ninth grader is the 18-19, and science (grade 10 only) April 20-21. possibility of passing three of the four areas and Attendance during the entire section of the test is Traditionally high school students have taken the WASL getting those requirements for graduation out of the critical this year, Silverman said, as a student who is in tenth grade, however the Office of the Superintendent way, he said. There are several issues to consider, absent during even a portion of one subject area must of Public Instruction agreed this year to give ninth however, in taking the test a year early. The expecta- retake that entire section of the test. He recommends graders the option of taking three of the four sections of tion on the math portion of the test, for example, is that that families plan ahead so students are not pulled out the test a year early. Freshmen will have to wait until students have taken some upper-level math classes, of school during these weeks for medical appoint- their sophomore year to take the science section. said Silverman. ments or other reasons. 12 December 2005 http://www.puyallup.k12.wa.us All Students Learning and Achieving ACE students Students invited to get covered work area apply for China trip The new covered work area Puyallup students are invited to apply for the third for the Architecture, Construc- annual district-sponsored trip to China March 30 tion, and Engineering (ACE) through April 12. Academy at Rogers High School officially opened with This year students will spend the majority of their trip a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, at the #12 Middle November 16. ACE Academy School (which includes grades 7-12). instructor Connie Saari said she is excited to have the Chinese students at the #12 school, which has ties to weather-protected work space Pacific Lutheran University, are eager to improve their where her students can English skills. Puyallup students who participate in this practice masonry, wood and exchange will earn community service hours for metal framing, truss construc- tutoring. They will also spend three days touring in and tion, scaffold erection, and fall around Beijing at the end of their trip. safety. Students who wish to participate in this trip abroad Photo (from left): ACE must be at least 14 years old by March 30, 2006 and students Tim Long, able to obtain a passport and visa by March 15, 2006. Mark Spaulding, Additionally, students must attend three to four infor- Dmitriy Ogorodnik, mational/orientation meetings prior to the departure Drew Scanapico, and date and be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian Jordan Mosich. to at least one of these meetings.

Ten students will be selected for this year’s trip. Arts educators receive local, state recognitions Preference will be given to students who are enrolled The 18th Annual Margaret K. Williams Art Awards seek Longtime music educator Kathy in Chinese language classes at Aylen Junior High to honor those who are active and passionate about the Gustafson, who began teaching in School or Puyallup High School, as well as to those arts in Pierce County. Debbie Munson, an arts educator in Puyallup in 1970 and also coordinated who were not part of the district’s first two exchange the Puyallup School District for the past 33 years, said the district’s music program for seven trips. Applications are due no later than Friday, receiving the award this year was a wonderful honor. years, has been named Outstanding January 6, 2006. Music Educator for the Valley region by the Washington Music Educators Puyallup students will be accompanied to China by at The awards reception last month at Association (WMEA). the Tacoma Art Museum gave least one adult chaperone. Cost for the trip will be slightly less than $2,000, which will cover a roundtrip Munson the chance to not only be Kathy Gustafson will receive her honor at honored by her friends, family, and airline ticket to Beijing and ground transportation in Gustafson the biennial WMEA convention in China. Students are responsible for their own spending colleagues, but to also pay tribute to February. The statewide conference money and medical insurance. those who have been important in her will also feature student musicians from several Puyallup life. schools. Gustafson’s son-in-law, Daniel Ott, a Puyallup School District graduate and composer in New York City, For additional information and an application form, will be the event’s featured composer. contact Carolyn Freudenstein, China Program Coordi- Debbie She said 18 years ago, the award went to Jim Blanchard, who died earlier nator, at (253) 841-1599, [email protected], or Munson this year. Blanchard and Lynn Upon learning of her recent award, Gustafson said, “I Puyallup School District secretary Diane Gustin at Williams helped start the Junior/Senior High Art Show at was very, very pleased. This honor is from the teachers. It (253) 840-8811. the Fair — a program in which Munson remains active is always nice to be recognized by your peers.” each year. As a longtime arts educator, Munson said she is The trip to China will follow a visit to Puyallup in passionate about keeping arts as an integral part of K-12 In addition to teaching elementary music at Firgrove, January by 20 students and three teachers from Shang- Gustafson serves this year as administration curriculum education. hai and Chengdu. officer on the WMEA board. She joined this district as Ballou Junior High’s first choir director more than three Host families are needed to house visiting Chinese While much of Munson’s time is spent teaching arts in the decades ago and has since taught at two additional junior classroom, she is also busy bringing the arts to the teachers. One of the Chinese teachers will stay in highs and Puyallup High School. Puyallup as a guest teacher through the end of community. She plays an active role in Valley Arts United February. If interested in providing housing, contact and Arts Downtown. “I think the arts are essential, not Gustafson sings the praises of music in everyone’s life. Heather MacMaster, China Committee member, at just in my classroom, but in the community as well,” “The study of music enhances all of our disciplines, from (253) 848-0583. Munson said. math and reading to social studies and languages.”