October 2008 Community News Vol. VIII No. 2
An Of f i c i a l Pu b l i c a t i o n o f TASIS Th e Am e r i c a n Sc h oo l i n En g l a n d The Headmaster’s View Inside This Pa r e n t Su r v e y Re s u l t s Would you recommend TASIS England to Issue Ov e r v i e w 2007-2008 other families? Last Spring, we conducted our annual Admissions 2 parent survey; I would like to thank those of you who took time to provide us with Very strongly 57.1% Upper School 3 constructive feedback. We are very pleased Strongly 34.7% with the overall results. However, we will 8.2% not be complacent as we strive to meet all With reservations Dean of Student Life 4 aspects of the TASIS England Mission. Not at all 0.0% Dean of Residential Life 4 Each of the Division Heads and other
administrators reviewed the survey’s findings 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% in June. Although the overall quantitative College Counseling 5 results were very positive, we took your Of course, there were a number of specific comments seriously and developed goals Student Activities 6 items that some parents mentioned in their and action plans during our Executive Team written comments. retreat in August to address your areas Thorpe Village Traffic 6 of concern. The goals, action plans, and The areas most frequently cited as strengths expectations were presented to the faculty, of the school are: Lower School 7 staff, and administrators during our pre- • The TASIS England community itself: most service workshops for their input. often described as accepting and welcoming, Middle School 9 Given the tremendous strengths cited, I feel supportive and inclusive, and having a diverse confident that we will improve each of these and multinational character. Sports & Activities 10 areas with our overall goal of moving the bar • The high quality of the education: from being “happy” with a TASIS England academically rigorous and offering a strong Fitness Center 11 education to being “delighted”. curriculum with the breadth and balance of a The two questions I believe were most telling well-rounded education. The opportunities to Theatre 12 are: learn outside of the classroom were also noted as positive and distinguishing elements. On a scale of 1 to 5, how well-rounded is Scouting 13 the education your child(ren) receive at TASIS • The high quality, dedication, and accessibility England? of the faculty. Parents’ Council 14 • Small size of classes. Areas of suggested improvements relate to: 1 Comprehensive 51.0% PIRC 15
2 44.9% Some lack of consistency in instruction.
3 4.1% • Communication: 0.0% 4 – Timely response of administration and 5 Limited 0.0% teachers to parents’ calls and/or e-mails. – Communication regarding student 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% progress, trip details, etc. Continued on page 2
Th e TASIS Sc h oo l s a n d Su m m e r Pr o g r a m s a r e o w n e d b y t h e TASIS Fo u n d a t i o n , a Sw i ss n o t -f o r -p r o f i t e d u c a t i o n a l f o u n d a t i o n r e g i s t e r e d i n De l é m o n t , Sw i t z e r l a n d . The Headmaster’s View, continued Upper School
– Communications between teachers in MS and US, Goal 4: Ensure there is a comprehensive curriculum and especially in coordinating homework assignments, tests, high quality instruction across all grade levels and curriculum etc. areas consistent with the high academic standards, goals, and traditions of TASIS England. – The reaction to school communications (website, e-mails, and publications) is generally positive, with only a few Goal 5: Ensure sound fiscal policies to provide the staffing comments regarding the need for more timely updating and educational programs that will maximize student of information. achievement. • Academic challenge: Goal 6: Assess the financial risk to the school due to the uncertain world wide economic outlook. – Improve consistency in degree of challenge (US) Goal 7: Implement the crisis management plan policies, – Challenge cited as too strenuous or too much homework procedures and practices for dealing with emergencies. assigned (MS) Goal 8: Develop a plan to minimize the School’s negative – More enrichment suggested for top students (LS) impact on the local, regional, and global environment • Uniforms: Some confusion over the policy changes in the that both teaches and exemplifies concern for the natural Upper School and problems with the ordering system. environment. Many of my goals were developed to directly address the Although my goals are specific, they can all be condensed concerns expressed in the survey, and I would be happy to into one simple goal that I know we have in common: a discuss them with you personally or at the parent coffees. successful school year for your child. When we work as a Each of these goals has a number of action items that have cooperative team, with open, constructive communications, been reviewed by the Board of Directors. your child has the highest possible chance for success. Again, thank you for your support and for your suggestions. He a d m a s t e r ’s Go a l s 2008-2009: If you would like to see the survey results for each division, Goal 1: Develop stronger collegial relationships through please go to: http://england.tasis.com/page.cfm?p=574 effective communication and selfless leadership. and enter teparents as the password. Goal 2: Ensure effective communication with community members and parents. Goal 3: Promote positive faculty and staff morale through effective and efficient methods of communication, Dr. James A. Doran transparency, collaboration, recognition, and collegiality. He a d m a s t e r Admissions
The first month of school has come and gone, hard to believe! Withdrawal Form. You must notify the School of your plans in We hope all our new TASIS families are beginning to feel at writing before transcripts can be prepared for your children. home, and that your children are settled in their classes. Many All information is considered confidential. thanks to all the buddy families who have extended such a If you are moving on and wish to lighten your load by selling warm welcome and helped our new students and parents some of your household items, the Admissions Office can get connected. There will be additional families joining our help! Simply send your lists of items for sale, and we will pass community this fall and in the second semester; if you have these on to interested incoming families. not already volunteered to “buddy” someone, it’s not too late! Contact Cindy Welch if you are willing to host a new A reminder that any changes or additions to your contact family. details should be submitted to the Admissions Office in order to be included in the directory amendments. Just as families are settling into life in England, others are planning to move on. Transition is part of the expat lifestyle, Best wishes for an enjoyable October break. and we know that some of you may be relocating midyear. If Th e Ad m i s s i o n s Te a m your family is moving, please contact Admissions to request a
Page 2 Upper School
Upp e r Sc hoo l Pa r e n t s ’ We e k e n d Fr i d a y , 10 Oc to b e r No Cl a s s e s Fo r Up p e r Sc h oo l St u d e nt s . 9-11 Oc t o b e r 2008 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. Individual 10-minute teacher We are pleased to invite you to participate in our upcoming conferences. Conferences are by appointment. Upper School Parents’ Weekend. We are providing Sign up at registration on Thursday evening. opportunities for both our day and our boarding parents to meet teachers, visit classes, and become more familiar 11:30 – 12:30 p.m. College Counseling Seminar. Fleming with the various facets of student life. Our exciting Parents’ Theatre Weekend begins on Thursday, 9 October, at 4:30 p.m. with 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. Individual 10-minute teacher registration in the Hall. Events will conclude on Saturday, 11 conferences. October, following the sports competitions. A light lunch will be served for all parents from 12:00 – 1:30 A tentative schedule for the weekend follows: in the Hall.
Th u r s d a y , 9 Oc to b e r a r e n t s e e k e n d po r t s v e n t s 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Parent Registration in the Hall. Distribution P ’ W S E of student schedules and sign-up for conference times. Fr i d a y 10 Oc to b e r 6:30 – 7:00 p.m. Welcome. Introductions and greetings in 4:00 Girls Volleyball TASIS v Lugano Gymnasium the Fleming Theatre with Dr. Jim Doran, Headmaster, and 4:00 Girls & Boys Soccer TASIS v Lugano Gym Field Claudia Werner, Head of Upper School. 5:30 Boys Volleyball TASIS v Lugano Gymnasium 7:00 – 7:20 p.m. Theatre Performance. The IB Drama/ Advanced Acting ensemble will perform a few short scenes Sa t u r d a y 11 Oc to b e r from their fall production, Lend Me a Tenor by Ken Ludwig. 9:30 Girls Volleyball TASIS v Lugano Gymnasium 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Follow your student’s schedule. Meet 10:00 Girls Soccer TASIS v Lugano Gym Field teachers and other parents in ten-minute “classes” as you 11:30 Boys Soccer TASIS v Lugano Gym Field learn about course expectations and daily life at TASIS. 11:30 Boys Volleyball TASIS v Lugano Gymnasium
Upper School Library News
The TASIS Upper School Library has undergone a number of available on Destiny, the online library catalog, which can be changes over the summer in order to better serve the students accessed on the TASIS website. this school year. Just as a reminder, the library is open until 5 p.m. Monday The first things you will notice upon entering the Library are through Thursday. It is available before school, during lunch, the 18 new computers with their 20-inch monitors—which and study halls. It is also open for study hall in the evenings number two more than last year. They are amazing! Everyone from 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, by a enjoys working on them. member of the duty team. Day students may attend evening Another major change is the purchase of new tables and study halls by making arrangements with Mr. Bett ahead of chairs that make studying much more comfortable. There time. is now seating for thirty-two students spread over the two During the day, students may come to the library from study conservatories and a table seating four in the main room, hall with a note from one of their academic teachers. The near the computers. note should be presented to the study hall teacher at the The lighting has been improved in the main section of the beginning of the period. Space does become limited at times library. It is now much easier to work and read on those when the library is scheduled by a class for research. dark, stormy days and during evening study halls. Please feel free to stop by for a visit. There is a brochure A new order of 131 library books has just arrived; these have with information about the library, as well as online resources been chosen to support the curriculum on a variety of topics. available to students and parents. This order includes a number of reference works. A list is Vickie Doran
He a d o f Li b r a r y Se r v i c e s Page 3 Dean of Student Life
Dear Parents, The subject of personal responsibility is central to the work that our Student Leaders are required to carry out. A new Few things help an individual more than to place responsibility initiative that we are developing involves Student Leaders upon them, and to let them know that you trust them. working on a weekly basis in and around campus. Student —Booker T. Washington Leaders will act as ‘go to people’ for the student body, The role of the Dean of Students involves the administration helping students to become integrated into our community. of the TASIS England uniform and attendance policies and the Additionally, Student Leaders will assist the TASIS England management of disciplinary issues that may occur during the Admissions department with tours of campus for prospective course of the academic day. In addition, I am responsible for families. Over the coming weeks we will provide support and overseeing the Leadership Program at TASIS, coordinating our training for our Student Leaders in their new role. day and boarding prefects and student council members. The Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to overall aim of these programs is to help students understand contact me. I welcome your feedback. that they are ultimately responsible for their own behavior.
The disciplinary process requires students, who are reported Jason Tait for infractions, to arrange to meet with me to discuss their actions. Where appropriate, students may be required De a n o f St u d e n t Li f e to develop a responsibility plan. The purpose of this is for students to reflect upon their behavior and to work on ways in which they can modify their conduct.
Dean of Residential Life
October is the month of Parents’ Weekend, so it seems host a boarder overnight on the weekend agree to follow the appropriate to talk about the role of parents in checking out a School’s rules and expectations in all areas and are acting in boarder for the weekend. Parents who wish to host a boarding lieu of the School on the nights they are hosting a student. student overnight on the weekend must fax (01932 560 493), We appreciate involvement of parents and students alike e-mail [email protected], or call (ext.2311) Ms. Jo in helping to host our Boarding Community throughout the Feltham in the Upper School Office no later than 5 p.m. on year. Thursday. Students wishing to stay off campus for the weekend must submit an Overnight Permission Form no later than 9:45 a.m. on the Wednesday before the intended weekend. This Michael Bett time frame is necessary so we can be confident that an adult De a n o f Re s i d e n t i a l Li f e will take responsibility for the boarder. Parents agreeing to
Page 4 College Counseling
In the autumn months, we in the College Visit Universities: Whether it is during a trip home to the Counseling Office spend the majority of States or on a weekend in London, we actively encourage our time disseminating information that students to visit universities long before the formal College is aimed at our senior students. With the Counseling process starts in the middle of the junior year. college deadlines looming, our focus is If these types of trips are impossible for your student to clearly on making sure our oldest students make, please encourage them to use the resources here at put their best foot forward on the path TASIS England. Many colleges will come to TASIS England to university. However, unbeknownst to to meet our students. We also run trips to the U.S. College some students, the college counseling Fair in London, the U.K. University in Surrey, and chaperone process does not start in the junior or senior year. It begins a weeklong trip to visit some of the most popular U.S. the first day of school in the 9th grade. Every day, asour universities during the February break. The more your student younger students rush off to class, they are slowly building an knows about universities, the easier the application process academic and extracurricular record that will be submitted will be for him or her. to their future universities. Here are some simple tips to keep Start Gathering Information: The Upper School has a our younger students headed in the right direction. number of opportunities designed to inform parents and students about the decisions ahead. Last year, an academic 9t h & 10t h Gr a d e r s : advising team met with all the rising 8th and 9th graders to Academics and Study Skills: Ninth and tenth grade students create a four-year plan. This activity was designed to initiate need to realize that they are building an academic record. the academic planning process and to help students set There is no way to go back in time and erase a bad grade, so realistic goals for their high school career. We will continue to it is important that they to do their best work right from the meet with students to update these plans every year during beginning. Make sure they have good study skills and habits. the course registration period. In January, we will be holding The students who learn how to juggle different priorities, an AP/IB informational evening to help parents and students remain organized, and prepare for long-term projects or future understand the differences between the two programs and exams will do better in their rigorous high school courses and make the right choices for their individual student. Finally, if later in university. If your student struggles in these areas, start you have any questions about the College Counseling process, taking the time to help them develop these skills. we will be holding a workshop for parents on the Friday of Get Involved: Now is the time for your sons and daughters to Parents’ Weekend. This hour-long seminar is designed to start getting involved in the clubs and sports that interest them. explain the basic requirements for applying to universities Colleges are not impressed by a student’s expert command of around the world. If you have individual questions, parents the Nintendo Wii console or the television’s remote control. of students of any age are welcome to book an appointment Nor are they impressed by a long list of extracurricular with the College Counseling Team. activities where the student has had minimal involvement Anna Wright and maintains a limited commitment. Instead they want to Co ll e g e Co u n s e l o r see students who are truly engaged in activities after school and are taking on new responsibilities and leadership roles in these areas. The good news is that students that are actively involved outside of class tend to be better students in the classroom.
Im po r t a n t Up c o m i n g Da t e s t o Re m e m b e r October 4th: SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests October 10th: College 101 Presentation during Parents’ Weekend October14th: Case Study Evening for Seniors October 15th: PSAT exam for all 10th and 11th grade students October 16th: American College Essay Workshop for Seniors November 1st: SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests November 4th: Junior Parents’ College Counseling Informational Evening November 5th: Registration Deadline for the December SAT tests
Page 5 Student Activities
Oc t o b e r Tr a v e l We e k Now, we encourage students to GO CAT (Get Out, Create A Trip) by creating excursions to area attractions. Students may October Travel Week is just around the pick up a proposal form in the Fun Hut. GO CAT is an excellent corner! The trips to Finland, France/ opportunity for students to go on their favorite excursions, so Belgium, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, don’t delay–pick up your proposal form today! and Poland will depart on Saturday, 18 October and will return on Saturday, 25 October. The trip to Co m m u n i t y Se r v i c e Romania departs on Sunday, 19 October and returns on the To let us know all the worthwhile and following Sunday, 26 October. exciting community service projects in There are several meetings for parents and students before which they are or will be engaged, students departure. On Monday, 6 October, trip chaperones will meet should register their project by Wednesday, 1 October. For with parents at 7:30 p.m. in the Fleming Theatre. Parents assistance in registering their projects on Studywiz, students will learn about the trips and have an opportunity to ask any may see Mrs. Norris-Atkins in the Fun Hut. questions they may have. Students will meet in their trip Students who completed community service hours over the groups during advisory period on 7 October, 13 October, summer should also register their project on Studywiz by 1 and 16 October (locations TBD). October, as well as turn in their timesheets, documentation Day students should plan to bring in their passports to the of service, and reflection essay to the Fun Hut. We will not Fun Hut as soon as possible as they are necessary for trip be able to give credit for summer projects if they are not preparations. documented by this date. We look forward to learning all We look forward to seeing you all at the upcoming about students’ summer projects. meetings. Uta Reinikainen, CAS a n d St u d e n t Activities Di r e c t o r In September, students enjoyed numerous Carolyn Norris-Atkins, Sc h o o l Ye a r En r i c h m e n t Co o r d i n a t o r activities and excursions, including West Side Angie Rayner, As s i s t a n t St u d e n t Activities Co o r d i n a t o r Story, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Wicked, go-kart racing, cable water skiing, and ice skating, as well as the Back to School Dance and a Capture the Flag competition on campus. Thorpe Village Traffic
The Thorpe Village residents have asked TASIS to try to
reduce the amount of traffic in the village. If you use the ➔ School's Ten Acre Lane entrance, kindly use the bypass to get to Ten Acre Lane, instead of the Village Road, Coldharbour ➔ ➔ Lane, and Coldharbour Close.
➔ ➔ Thank you!
North
➔ Campus ➔ Ten Acre Lane
Entrance ➔
South
Campus
➔ ➔
Page 6 Lower School
It was a pleasure to see so many of you at the Lower School ‘Op e r a t i o n Ch r i s t m a s Ch i l d ’ - Sho e b o x Open House on 25 September. We hope you had a chance App e a l to visit with all of your children’s teachers and explore the classroom resources. We look forward to seeing many of you again at the October Divisional Coffee scheduled here at TASIS on Wednesday, 1 October, from 9 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. in the Salon.
Co r e Vi r t u e The October core virtue is RESPONSIBILITY, defined as “doing your part for the groups that make us whole.” In Once again we will be participating in a TASIS classroom this means developing new bonds— the Samaritan’s Purse holiday Shoebox friendships and class spirit—and working together to form a Appeal. This appeal asks you to send community. Within that community, it also means learning to a shoebox filled with gifts to a needy take personal responsibility for one’s actions. Responsibility child somewhere in the world. Boxes (and respect, September’s core virtue) “are necessary to are filled and distributed to children by every social realm we occupy—family, friends, classroom, age group, regardless of their nationality, work, and civic life.” At home you can help your children political or religious background. Full details will be sent home begin to develop responsibility by having him/her participate in a brochure. You may want to start to collect and wrap in family chores and learn to keep personal belongings and your box(es) now—lid and box separately, please. When rooms in order. We look forward to working together with filled, please send your box into the Lower School Office, you on your child’s behalf. where Jane Cady will organize them. Samaritan’s Purse will be collecting the boxes in the second week of November. As Re a d a t ho n a point of interest: Wendy Gediman, 2nd grade teacher, has The Lower School is embarking on its 23rd READATHON! been in Romania when these gift boxes were distributed, to We introduced the READATHON in our weekly assembly the great joy of the children. on 24 September, and your child brought home sponsor REMEMBER: This may be the only gift these children forms to be filled in. We should all encourage the children receive, so please make it very special for them. to read as much as possible for a week starting 1 OCTOBER To read more about Samaritan’s Purse: and ending in the evening on 8 October. If the children have http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com read as many books as they pledged in that time, the money promised should be collected and sent to school. Ha l l o w e e n Ra gs ‘n’ Ta gs In some local British schools, this is also TURN OFF THE TV WEEK, as it coincides with Children’s Book Week in England. This would be a great way to get in a few hours of extra reading. Please see Readathon forms for more information on the two very worthwhile charities that benefit from the Readathon monies. Let’s make this 23rd Readathon our very best yet! Children in the Lower School will be allowed to come to Check out this website for lots more information: www. school out of uniform on Friday, 31 October. (Please note readathon.org. that this is separate from the Middle School and Upper School Rags and Tags Day, which is on Friday, 17 October) As it is Halloween, we will be celebrating that afternoon with our Halloween Parade and classroom parties. Children in Pre-K through Grade 2 may bring costumes to school in a bag for their afternoon parade. (Please ensure all pieces are labeled with your child’s name.) Older students may be asked to bring a costume for their class party.
Page 7 Lower School, continued
The rags ‘n’ tags donation of £1 (or more) will go to support follow the school calendar when determining non-emergency UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund). For more family travel. Thank you for your attention to this. information on UNICEF’S many activities, including ‘Trick or Treat’ for UNICEF, please see their website: www.unicef.org Lo w e r Sc hoo l Li b r a r y Ne w s Welcome to a fanTASIS adventure in reading! As the librarian of the Lower School, one of my goals is to discover books that are perfect for your child! With almost 200 students from Pre-kindergarten to Grade 4, this is quite a task and I always appreciate any assistance you can offer. We have a wonderful library at the Lower School and constantly strive to “We cannot waste our precious children. improve our collection. Check our database from your home Not another one, not another day.” computer at http://england.tasis.com (Academics>library).
Nelson Mandela and Graca Machal 2008 Li b r a r y Sc h e d u l e Monday 1K, PKD, PKM, 1RO, KD, KR Sc o u t i n g We d n e s d a y s (a n d Al so Pl a y Tuesday FH, 2D, 1R Da t e s , e t c .) Wednesday 2A, KR, KD Please make sure that teachers are sent a note of any change Thursday 3H, 3M, 4E, 4BE of going home plans, even if you are picking your child up. Friday PKD, PKM, 4B, 2G Teachers are instructed never to allow students to go home in any but the usual way without a note. Bi r t h d a y Boo k Cl u b We have started our new school year with many families Ab s e n c e s Fr o m Sc hoo l generously contributing to our Birthday Book Club. Thank Please note that it is helpful to alert the classroom teacher, in you! Students who have birthdays in September are in the advance, if your child will be missing school due to a medical process of selecting their special books. appointment or other unavoidable commitment. You may check our database at home and then select a new In addition we would like to draw your attention to the title from a local shop or, alternatively, send £10 so that your Vacation Policy on page 20 of the Lower School Handbook. child can select a book that I have already purchased and Extending family holidays, before and after scheduled holiday “hidden” on our birthday bookshelf. Forms for the second periods, can be a particular problem as the children miss option are available from Mrs. Cady or in the library. valuable instructional time, often returning to school feeling During the 2007-2008 school year we received more than overwhelmed and “out of the loop.” (Work will not be 130 new books through this program. This is one reason we provided for vacations during school days.) We ask that you have such an amazing collection! UPCOMING LOWER SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS & EVENTS Wednesday, October 1 Fifth grade are going to Hever Castle in Kent (to complement the study of the Tudors. This is the childhood home of Anne Boleyn.). Second grade to National Army Museum Lower School Parent Coffee, Thorpe Place Salon, 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 1-8 READATHON Thursday, October 2 Middle School and Fifth Grade Open House 7:30 p.m. in the Fleming Theatre Thursday, October 9 PK/FHM and PKD to Garson Farm to pick pumpkins Kindergarten to Garson Farm to pick pumpkins Second grade to British Museum Middle School and Fifth Grade Parent Coffee, Thorpe Place Salon, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. Monday, October 13 Fifth grade to National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery for British and Renaissance History Thursday, October 16 First grade to Science Museum as part of their space unit Second grade will have a Native American Guest Speaker Friday, October 31 Halloween Rags ‘n’ Tags for UNICEF To be arranged Third grade trip to Natural History Museum
Page 8 Middle School
Welcome to October in the Middle School! We look forward Congratulations to the above and thanks to all those who ran to greeting you at our Open House and we hope you find for office! It was wonderful to hear the confident speeches in the evening informative. By this point in the new school year front of the entire Middle School. Thanks also to the entire we are looking to see if the children have now adapted to student body for doing their part by voting. Democracy is their new routines and have found a good balance between alive and well in the TASIS Middle School! The four students work and play. Please contact your child’s advisor if there are named above will meet twice monthly, along with the any concerns in this regard. Representatives, to carry out duties and to organize events for the middle school students. The first quarter (the shortest!) comes to an end on October 17th, just before the Travel Week. Teachers will then return The four separate Houses met in their groups of 38–40 from the break to compile grade reports and help the students on September 30th to choose the 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade to prepare for the parent/student/teacher conferences coming Representatives to the House Council. We will report on the up in November. First Quarter Reports will be sent out on results of this selection process in our next monthly newsletter. November 14th. These 16 students will make up the House Council for the 2008–2009 academic year. Of course, October wouldn’t be the same without some Halloween celebrations. In the Middle School we keep it relatively low key. No costumes at school please. Some of Mi d d l e Sc hoo l Fi e l d Tr i p Da y : you may be bringing your younger children along to the We d n e s d a y , Oc t o b e r 8, 2008 Trunk or Treat event at 6 p.m. on Halloween night. Middle 6th Grade: Life in Roman Britain, presented by History School students are invited to this event, which is sponsored Off The Page (Finish for 3:20 p.m. busing) by the Parents’ Council. Directly following that, the Middle 7th Grade: Warwick Castle (Return for 5:20 p.m. busing) School students have their chance to go all - out in costume for our Halloween Mixer. Please see the details below. 8th Grade: Sulgrave Manor (Return for 5:20 p.m. busing) A final reminder, clocks here in England will “fall back” one hour in the early hours of October 26th. Oc t o b e r Tr a v e l We e k The PGL Adventure trip to Shropshire has 25 participants Mi d d l e Sc hoo l Ho u s e Co u n c i l and 2 chaperones, Mrs. Kat Higgins (MS Science) and Mr. El e c t i o n Re s u l t s Rafael Blanco (MS Spanish), in addition to the PGL Center staff. They are all looking forward to a week of varied— President Annalyse Kohley mostly outdoor—pursuits. Parents are invited to attend the Vice President Maude Manzi first of two preparation meetings on Monday, October 6th Secretary daniella Smith from 10:45 to 11:15 a.m. in the MS Library. Treasurer William Yurko
Th e Mi d d l e Sc h o o l Ha l l o w e e n Mi x e r Friday, October 31st At 6:45 – 9:30 p.m. Donation: In costume = £2 No Costume = £3 All Kinds of Refreshments Welcome! After the cars have departed from the Trunk or Treat! If your Middle school student has collected candy/sweets at Trunk or Treat, PLEASE take them home wth you. Treats can also be donated at the refreshment table for the mixer.
Page 9 Middle School, continued
Mi d d l e Sc hoo l Up c o m i n g Ev e n t s Many of these events will be further elaborated on in the upcoming Friday e-mails. Wednesday, October 1 Cross Country at ACSC (A) Thursday, October 2 MS Girls and Boys Soccer v ASL (H) MS Girls and Boys Volleyball v ASL (H) MS and Fifth Grade Parents Open House Evening, 7:30 p.m. in the Fleming Theatre Friday, October 3 "Jeans for Genes" Day, Donation requested to wear jeans/denim to school (Middle School only) Monday, October 6 PGL Information Meeting for Parents and Students, MS Library, 10:45 -11:15 a.m. Mon. 6 - Fri. Oct. 17 Kristin Pedemonti, Professional Storyteller, In Residence Tuesday, October 7 MS Girls Soccer v ACSE (A) MS Boys Soccer v ACSE (H) MS Girls and Boys Volleyball v ACSE (A) ONATTI Theatre - French, 7 p.m. Fleming Theatre Wednesday, October 8 Middle School Field Trip Day Thursday, October 9 Middle School and Fifth Grade Parent Coffee, Thorpe Place Salon, 9 - 10:30 a.m. MS Girls and Boys Soccer v ACSC (A) MS Girls and Boys Volleyball v ACSC (A) Friday, October 10 International Festival, 3:20 – 6 p.m. Saturday, October 11 Cross Country at ACSE (A) Tuesday, October 14 First House Competition (Basketball),11:15 a.m. - 12:55 p.m. Wednesday, October 15 October Birthday Advisory Celebrations Thursday, October 16 MS Girls and Boys Soccer and Volleyball v ACSH (A) PGL Travel Week Meeting (Students only) Friday, October 17 Rags ‘n’ Tags for MS and US End of First Quarter Sat. – Sat., Oct. 18 – 25 October Travel Week (No classes for all divisions) Monday, October 27 Classes Resume, Second Quarter Begins Thursday, October 30 MS Girls and Boys Soccer and Volleyball v ASL (A) Friday, October 31 Trunk or Treat (6 p.m. start) MS Halloween Mixer - 6:45 - 9:30 p.m. Saturday, November 1 Cross Country at Bushey Park Monday, November 3 ONATTI Theatre - Spanish, 7 p.m., Fleming Theatre Mon.- Fri., Nov. 3-7 MS ERB Standardized Testing Thursday, November 6 MS Girls Soccer and Volleyball v Marymount (A) Sports and Activities
Upp e r Sc hoo l Mi d d l e Sc hoo l There are 136 students participating in the fall season The middle school season commenced with soccer and teams; girls and boys varsity and junior varsity cross-country, volleyball games against the ACS Egham Jaguars. There are volleyball, and soccer. This figure is approximately 35% of healthy numbers in the soccer where we are hoping to field the upper school population. The levels of participation are three boys teams, and two for girls. There are sufficient most encouraging, and support the TASIS policy of inclusion. players in the co-ed volleyball group to field two teams. The We are also fortunate to have a talented and enthusiastic cross-country runners have participated in two races. Please coaching staff. They are dedicated to providing a positive remember that students participating in middle school games sporting experience for our athletes. The remaining upper at TASIS will not be finished in time to take the 5:20 p.m. bus school students are happily settled into a wide range of sports/ service, and will need transportation home. The estimated activities options including: tennis, conditioning, basketball time of return for away games is published in the weekly club, golf, yearbook, art, etc. A small number of students schedule, which is sent by e-mail in the sports update every have elected to pursue their sport/activity commitment Friday. independent of the school program.
Page 10 Middle School, continued Sports and Activities, continued
Sa t u r d a y Spo r t s -In t r a m u r a l So c c e r & Please note the following: Owing to the fact that approximately Fl a g Foo t b a l l half of the upper school student population reside at TASIS, and are, therefore, unable to provide accommodation for The Thorpe Place playing fields on the South campus come our guests, the number of hosting and travel weekends alive on Saturdays with the sound of 80+ young players undertaken by TASIS teams is much reduced compared to enjoying the Intramural Soccer Program in the morning and other I.S.S.T. schools. 40+ participants in the Flag Football in the afternoon. In the Intramural Soccer Program, TASIS Varsity Boys Soccer Coach, TASIS At h l e t i c s On Th e We b s i t e Mr. Stuart Lake, and the Fulham F.C. coaches are coordinating the technical side of the operation with enthusiastic support The TASIS website, www.tasis.com/england, does contain from the parent coaches. Flag Football is delivered by coaches information about the Sports Program: schedules, directions, from the Sweet Feet Academy. The atmosphere is fantastic, contact information etc. Please don’t hesitate to contact and everyone is having a great time. Thank you to Margie Sharon or myself if you are having difficulty accessing Hanley, and her team on the Intramural Committee for the information or if you have suggestions as to how we may outstanding job they are doing with the organization of the improve the site. We are hoping that the website will be a Saturday Sports Program. useful resource, providing the latest scheduling information, results, team pages, and directions to away game sites. Th e Hos t i n g of Vi s i t i n g At h l e t e s The Varsity Soccer and Volleyball teams will be hosting our We e k l y Spo r t s Up d a t e sister school, TASIS Lugano in October. The hosting of visiting You should be receiving the Weekly Sports Update from the athletes is a vital component of the varsity sports program in sports/activities office by e-mail every Friday. The update order for the TASIS teams to avail themselves of the travel contains the most recent scheduling information for the week opportunities provided by the I.S.S.T. organization, and for ahead, game times, estimated times of return from away them to be able to enjoy weekend sporting exchanges with games for the middle and upper school teams, volleyball other I.S.S.T. member schools. The reciprocal nature of this practice schedule etc. Once again, please let us know if you positive experience for hundreds of students, not just at are experiencing difficulties obtaining the update or if you TASIS, is only made possible by the kindness and hospitality have content suggestions. of the host families throughout a large network of American/ A.E. Cross International schools in Europe and North Africa. Thank you to the TASIS families who have already volunteered to open Di r e c t o r o f Sp o r t s a n d Activities Pr e K-12 their homes to the visiting athletes for the TASIS Lugano visit. Fitness Center
the philosophy of ‘the beating heart of our community’ by Th e Fi t n e ss Ce n t e r encouraging all to use the Center regularly. Th e Be a t i n g He a r t Of Ou r Co m m u n i t y Last year, the Parents’ Council raised and donated money Welcome to the 160 new members! What a great time to to the Fitness Center. In consultation with our members, join and use our Fitness Center as, thanks to the generosity we looked to increase our cardio machines and add a new of the Parents’ council, we have three terrific new machines resistance machine. To date, we have purchased an abductor/ for you to use. adductor resistance machine, a new combination elliptical cross trainer and a new AMT machine (adaptive motion The Parents’ Council has long been a supporter, and the trainer). All are wonderful additions to our facility and should members regular users, of the Fitness Center. When we serve to enhance your time spent in the Fitness Center. The first opened, the Parents’ Council funded the audio-visual control panels on the cardio machines are very similar to equipment. The Grapple was purchased a couple of years ago our other machines, but are much more user-friendly. If you by the Parents’ Council, and now we have our new machines. need help, just ask! In particular, I encourage you to try the We are most grateful for their continued support, both in AMT machine (it’s the one that looks like something from a financial terms, and more importantly, for helping us to fulfill sci-fi movie!). As the arms and legs work semi-independently,
Page 11 Fitness Center, continued
it really does give an excellent all-round work-out. It is so membership card is really only a key card. We will be changing popular at peak times that we have limited the machine to a computer based ‘log-in’ system, which will record every to 15-minute sessions. Try it and feel your thighs working! entry and use. This will enable us to be compliant with the We are also planning to enhance our spinning classes with FIA guidelines and allow us to ‘manage’ the use of our Center a route screen (now you can see where you are going and in a more efficient way. More details will follow as we get when those hills are coming!) and awaiting a versa-climber. closer to implementing the new system. Exciting times! We welcome feedback on our new machines Enjoy your work-out and don’t forget to try the AMT machine… and any ideas you may have to help us to develop our Fitness let me know how you get on with our new machines. Center for our community. Mark Hurst We will also be changing our membership and card entry system in the near future. Currently we rely on members Fi t n e s s Ce n t e r Di r e c t o r to sign-in each time the Fitness Center is used, as your Theatre
The middle school musical Music Ja n u a r y 31s t - Ta s i s Re v u e ! Man Jr. is now cast and in rehearsal. Featuring students, faculty, staff, and parents. The talented and energetic cast and the tech crew are working hard We already have some great acts lined up! So highlight TASIS to produce another outstanding REVUE 2009 in your calendar! Anyone in the TASIS family middle school production. Tickets can take part, so make sure you let Ros know, as soon as for this well known musical go on sale at the beginning of possible, if you would like to offer an act or presentation! November! This year, our fundraiser will once again benefit the Bula The IB2 and Advanced Acting production of Lend Me a Tenor School project. Last year, thanks to the tremendous support is a hilarious and fast moving comedy. This play— funny from of the TASIS community and the donations from the TASIS start to finish—is suitable for students from eighth grade up. Quilt raffle (Huge thanks to Anne Gundry, Carol Avery, and No ticket is required! Come support an outstanding group of Maureen Saage) we were able to build a well and a two- student actors and enjoy a great evening’s entertainment! building (four-classroom) school in the village of Bula in Guinea Bissau, West Africa. i r s t e m e s t e r e a so n i n t h e l e m i n g F S S F This year we hope to equip that school so that the children Th e a t r e : in this desperately poor part of the world can benefit from a 7 Oct. 7 p.m., The Onatti Theatre Company presents good education! a French Language play. Contact Ms. Debbie Baird, Head of Modern Languages, for information. Fl e m i n g Th e a t r e Me m b e r sh i p 9 Oct. 6:30 p.m., Acting Showcase: Students will be Membership is just £80 for the entire year and it entitles you to two tickets for each in-house performance plus up to six performing twenty-minute excerpts from Lend me a Tenor reserved seats (four at current ticket prices). All you have to 3 Nov. 7 p.m., The Onatti Theatre Company presents do is call or e-mail your ticket requirements, and your seats a Spanish Language play. Contact Ms. Debbie Baird, Head of will be reserved ready for you on the nights of performance. Modern Languages, for information. This year, thanks to the ongoing support of our Members, 3-5 Nov. Auditions for the upper school musical in we have already planned workshops for lower, middle, and March. Times and venue will be posted in the US Daily upper school students with Kristin Pedemonti, a storyteller, Bulletin. and with Commedia dell’ Arte specialists from the Forte Theatre Company. 14 & 15 Nov. 7:30 p.m., Lend me a Tenor by Ken Ludwig. An IB & Advanced Acting presentation For more information about Membership and on all our productions and presentations call Ros Morgan at the Theatre 4, 5, 6 Dec. 7:30 p.m. Middle School Musical Music Man Office, 01932 568137, or e-mail rmorgan@tasisengland. Jr. Tickets: adults £8 and students £5. To order tickets call org. 01932 568137 or e-mail [email protected]. Ros Morgan, Th e a t r e Ma n a g e r
Page 12 Scouting
The Girl Scouts are up and running and most troops have had their first meetings. We have over 50 Daisies, Brownies, and Juniors already registered. If you have not turned in your registration forms, your daughter is not eligible to attend troop meetings, so please get these turned in to either your troop leader or the Girl Scout Registrar, Susie Watson. If your daughter is interested in joining a troop, it is not too late. Please contact Cynthia Erickson for details and forms. Mark your calendars now for the following Girl Scout events this year: • November 9 Remembrance Day at Brookwood Cemetery • November 15 Family Ice Skating Day at Bracknell Leisure Centre • February 25 World Thinking Day • March 14 Father/Daughter Event • May 16-17 Camp-out • May 20 Court of Awards
Cu b Sc o u t s If your son is interested in scouting, but you missed the registration meeting, it is not too late! Please contact Jennifer Cub Scout registration night was Quinton, Membership Chair or Bill Oakes, Committee Chair held on September 3rd, and was a for more information. big success. Pack 301 is excited to include boys from both TASIS and ACS Egham again this year. This year's Cub Scout Pack consists of over 30 enthusiastic boys! Den meetings have begun, and the boys are getting busy. Sc o u t Tr oop 301 i s Please mark your calendars for these upcoming events: p r o u d t o p r e s e n t o u r October 3-5 Mayflower District Fall Camporee o w n w e b s i t e . (Webelos II only) Please check out the website as it will have lots of important information if October 11 Physical Fitness Day (1:00 - 3:00 p.m.) you are interested in scouting. October 15 Pack Meeting (6:30 p.m. in the Fleming Troop Calendar, Camping, Troop activities and more… Theatre) www.troop301.org.uk. THANK YOU to all the parents who have volunteered to lead their son’s den or serve on the Pack Committee this year! The Pack is very lucky to have so many enthusiastic parent leaders. We still have some openings, so please contact Bill Oakes if you are interested in helping out.
Page 13 Parents’ Council
Coo r d i n a t o r : Su s a n Joh n s Congratulations on a wonderful start to the school year. [email protected] Best Wishes, I’m sure after just four weeks of school and facing the many Susan Johns challenges of settling into the new school year those ‘lazy, hazy’ days of summer seem now only a distant memory. I Ar t s Se r v i c e s : Ch r i s Ma u r e r want to reassure those of you who are transitioning to life in a new country that it does get easier, driving especially, [email protected] and of course that you are not alone in this quest. As a Welcome to an exciting year of Arts at TASIS. Once again, the matter of fact, our Buddy Family Coordinators Dawn Keogh TASIS England arts calendar will be full with a wide variety of and Cindy Welch matched 107 families over the summer. exhibits, concerts, and theatre productions featuring students, Thank you both. I hope you all have found the programs, faculty, staff, parents, and visiting professional artists. If you communication, and support we have strived to provide you have questions or suggestions at any time during the year, with have helped to make you feel as welcome, connected, please feel free to drop a line to: [email protected]. and assimilated to the TASIS community as we all do. Hosp i ta l i t y : Da w n Ke ogh & Ja c k i e Ku c h i n s k i Although fundraising is not our primary objective, it is an important aspect of what we do for the TASIS community. [email protected] This year will be no different, with proceeds from the sports concessions and TASIS merchandise sales, Fête de Noël and Di v i s i o n a l Coff e e s holiday greens, used uniforms and special events, all enabling Have your academic and other school questions answered us to give back to the school. It’s our way of making TASIS by your Division Head and the Headmaster, Dr. Jim Doran, an even more amazing place for our children to grow and in an informal and interactive setting, and meet and network learn. In the past we have been fortunate to have helped with other parents in your Division. build the LS playground, add new equipment in classrooms, All coffees will be held at 9:00 a.m. in the Salon, next to main add new equipment in the fitness center, and of course the Reception. latest fundraising effort to help provide new seating for the Lower School (Frog Hollow-5th grade*) Fleming theatre. For those of you that have already supported Wednesday, October 1 the Adopt a Seat campaign, keep your eyes peeled in the theatre over the next month or so as a special display will be Middle School (5th grade*-8th grade) hung to honor your commitment to the school. Thursday, October 9 It is always important that we thank those who have gone the Upper School extra mile and I’d like to briefly name a few women this month Monday, October 13 who have done just that: Dawn Keogh and Jackie Kuchinski *5th grade parents are welcome to attend either the lower or for organizing a wonderful New Family Picnic, Margie Hanley middle school coffee. for your weekly commitment to the sports programs and concessions and for the great new addition of flag football, So c i a l : La u r a Joh n e s Susan Lidback and Kyle Cunningham for organizing and [email protected] running our merchandise store that is a treat to shop at, and Jeanne Ekstrand and Jodi Humes for selling our used uniforms TASIS Int e r n a t i on a l Fe s t i v a l ‘08 so others can benefit. I would also like to thank Celina Allen Don’t forget about the much-anticipated TASIS International for coordinating so many of our programs and for keeping Festival, where you and your family will be able to enjoy us on track, Jen Curran for filling in when needed and for food and customs from around the world. The International magically producing great flyers, Susan Phelps for organizing Festival will take place on Friday, October 10th from 3:15 to the yummy pub lunches that over 130 parents attended, and 5 p.m. in the Lower School Dining Room and the Marquee. truly the entire board who give their all on a daily basis. Tr u n k o r Tr e a t In closing, I encourage you to enjoy your time here at TASIS Start planning your trunk decorations and stock up on non- and keep the communication lines open! Our community nut candy for the annual TASIS trunk or treat. The trunk or is fortunate to have new families joining us throughout the treating starts promptly at 6 p.m. in the North Campus parking year which I believe makes us more open to new ideas and lot near the tennis courts. It promises to be a wonderfully suggestions. Watch the weekly e-mails for ways you can make spooky night! a difference or find an activity that you would enjoy doing. Please don’t hesitate to contact me, or any of the board Vo l u n t e e r s : Su s a n Ph e l ps members, with any new ideas, questions, concerns, or even to volunteer! It’s a great community to be a part of and we [email protected] are continuously striving to make it even better. Thank you so much to all of you who have already returned the “pink” TASIS Parents' Council Volunteer Form titled “Explore, Immerse, Volunteer”! I have passed your names
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along to the corresponding activity coordinator(s). If you want New for this year is an embroidered Waterproof TASIS Picnic to volunteer at a certain event/activity but have not yet been Blanket–perfect for the PC International Festival on October contacted, please feel free to contact me at the telephone 10th and TASIS sporting events. With cool weather upon number or e-mail above and I will be happy to connect you to us, check out our top quality reversible, waterproof jackets the appropriate group. We are always grateful for volunteers. and fleece wear in both youth and adult sizes at unbeatable Volunteering at TASIS is an easy way to meet other parents, prices. If you need merchandise and cannot make it to the do rewarding work, and have FUN at the same time. store, please contact Susan Lidback for assistance. Te a c h e r Ap p r e c i a t i on Vo l u nt e e r s Ne e d e d TASIS Ho l i d a y Gr e e n s : A kickoff planning meeting will be held on Thursday, 25 Beautiful, locally grown poinsettias, wreaths, and Christmas September in the PIRC room for Teacher Appreciation trees! Be on the lookout next month for order forms for Volunteers to organize decorating, gifts, treats, and plan the these fresh flowers and greens in time for the holiday season. faculty appreciation luncheon. Please attend if you can help More information will be provided soon. out in any way. Wa y s a n d Me a n s Vo l u nt e e r s : Susan Lynn and Cindy Westerfield are Co-Coordinators Plans are now being made for the annual TASIS Fête de Noël, for 2008/2009 Teacher Appreciation Week (to be held 2-6 held on November 22. If you are interested in volunteering February 2009). to assist Ways and Means Coordinator Susan Lidback with Bi r t h d a y Ca k e s fo r Bo a r d e r s : the Spirit Store, Holiday Greens, or the Fête de Noël, please Dawn Fields is the coordinator and we would like to thank contact her at [email protected]. We can those of you who are helping to brighten the birthday of a always use helping hands. boarder. If you would like to contribute a cake for a border please contact me on the e-mail above and I will forward Bo a r d e r s w i t ho u t Bo r d e r s : La u r a Ha r t m a n n your information to Dawn. All boarding parents should have received an e-mail welcoming them to join the Boarders without Borders Volunteers are also needed for: International Festival on 10th e-mail. This is to help provide boarding parents with all October, TASIS Merchandise Sales, and Sports Concessions. sorts of information which is nonacademic and most helpful No prior volunteering experience or special skills are required especially to new families. If you have not received this and you can spend as little or as much time as you want to e-mail or would like to know how to participate, then contact suit your schedule and interests. We value everyone's input. Laura Hartmann. Please note that if you are not a part of the boarding community and have some information that might Wa y s An d Me a n s : Su s a n Li d b a c k be useful to either boarding students or their parents, it is [email protected] always welcome. TASIS Sp i r i t Sto r e : If you haven’t had an opportunity to stop by the TASIS Spirit Store, please visit us on Wednesday, October 15 from 2-4 p.m. PIRC
Pa r e n t s ’ In fo r m a t i o n a n d Re so u r c e Co m m i t t e e issues including childhood development; family health; The Parents’ Information and Resource Committee (PIRC) is ADD, AD/HD, and dyslexia; emotional issues surrounding a group of volunteer parents that provide support to TASIS adolescence; bullying; and overseas living. England parents, faculty, and administration as we cope with The PIRC Library, located above the TASIS gym in the PIRC the emotional, social, and practical issues inherent in the room, is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. until the end transitions of expatriate life. Please feel free to call any of of the school day. The library is run on the honor system, and the PIRC members anytime with questions, comments, or we appreciate your cooperation in adhering to the posted suggestions. check-out policy. We welcome your suggestions on new books and donations to the PIRC library!
Th e PIRC Li b r a r y i s Op e n ! Are you looking for a book to help you deal with the PIRC Ca l e n d a r of Up c o m i n g Ev e n t s transitions of an expat move, recognize your child’s learning PIRC Fa l l Se m i n a r s style, or communicate effectively with your adolescent? The Wednesday, November 12 PIRC Library is just what you need! PIRC has established a Understanding the HPV Vaccine, 1:00-2:30 p.m. in the collection of books addressing a wide variety of parenting Salon.
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A TASIS parent and OB/GYN who still practices in the U.S. • Being called names has offered to help parents understand the vaccine and its • Being teased indications. • Being pushed or pulled about • Being hit or attacked HELP! I Ju s t Mo v e d m y Fa m i l y Ac r oss t h e Oc e a n ! • Having your bag and other possessions taken and Here are a few suggestions to help you make the transition to thrown around a new culture and enjoy England for all that it has to offer. • Having rumors spread about you • Being ignored and left out • Exercise • Being forced to hand over money or possessions • Sign up for a class • Being attacked or teased or called names because • Set up routines of your religion or color • Start new family traditions • Being attacked or teased or called names because • Call or e-mail new friends of your sexuality • Browse magazine racks; pick a new favorite, and call to subscribe Bullying hurts. It hurts individuals, and it hurts communities. • Join a church It is particularly difficult for the young and vulnerable. • Offer your volunteer efforts to an organization Children’s confidence is fragile. They are easily intimidated; • Catch a new movie and fear of even greater bullying can cripple their desire to • Get a pet get help. As a result, bullying can thrive in an atmosphere of • Join AWBS, AWS, or another group secrecy. • Get involved with a project you have always It is very important for parents and educators to: wanted to do • Go antiquing or visit a garden • Reassure students that we don’t tolerate bullying • Get a massage, facial, or manicure and have strategies in place to deal with bullying in • Visit the PIRC Library our community • Go shopping somewhere new • Actively encourage children to speak out and seek • Get a walking group together help • Take up a new sport such as biking, swimming, or • Offer children a place or resource where they can golf safely confide their concerns, both at home and at • Call a friend and try a new restaurant school • Plan a day trip to London • Visit a garden or museum shop for unique gifts In order to deal with bullying effectively, it is particularly • Meet your spouse or children for lunch vital that parents, teachers, and school administrators work • Book a family holiday together. At TASIS England, we already have some elements • Start the process of getting your UK driver’s license in place to work together to address bullying including: • Send some “Thinking of You” cards to old friends • A zero tolerance policy among faculty and and relatives administration • Attend local events • Excellent lines of communication between parents • Read the newspaper for upcoming shows and and the school entertainment • A properly trained peer support group, which is • Read a book about England available to assist threatened students seeking help Remember, every expatriate that you meet has had to adjust and willing to report bullying observed firsthand to life in a new culture. Make a new friend, call a neighbor, • A strong program of workshops and discussion invite someone for coffee, or make plans to go to lunch! groups to bring this issue to the wider student body Enjoy! There is a great deal of information available on the Internet to Bu l l y i n g help students, parents, teachers, and peer support facilitators What is bullying? including the following UK resources. The dictionary definition is: A person who uses his or her strength or power to frighten or hurt weaker people. Us e f u l c o n t a c t s a n d w e b s i t e s Bullyfreeworld www.bullyfreeworld.com/ A sixth grade boy explains it as: Hitting someone, calling them names, or hurting them just because you can. Childline UK www.childline.org.uk Kidscape www.kidscape.org.uk/ A Mom says it’s: Doing anything that makes someone feel threatened or hurt. UK Government Anti-bullying Pack: Don't Suffer in Silence www.dfee.gov.uk/bullying/ And Childline, a child advocacy organization in the UK, describes being bullied on its web site as:
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