Open Enrollment Fairs and Seasonal Flu Shots (not H1N1)
Open Enrollment Fairs have been scheduled in preparation for the annual Open Enrollment period in November - the one time of the year when employees can make changes to their benefit plans. Employees can attend any of the following fairs from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day (with one noted exception below). Seasonal Flu shots (not H1N1) are also available free of charge to active district employees during fair hours. Dates and locations follow:
Wednesday, October 14 -- Transportation Department
4710 Cardin St. (92111)
Thursday, October 15 -- Ed Center (front lawn)
4100 Normal St. (92103) *note: Fair and flu shots begin at 11 a.m. due to statewide earthquake drill
Wednesday, October 21 -- Crawford High School
4191 Colts Way (92115)
Thursday, October 22 -- Marshall Middle School (media center)
9700 Avenue of Nations (92131)
Friday, October 23 -- Hoover High School (media center)
4474 El Cajon Blvd. (92115)
Thursday, October 29 -- Ed Center (front lawn)
4100 Normal St. (92103)
Friday, October 30 -- Morse High School (cafeteria)
6905 Skyline Dr. (92114)
2009 Shake-out Earthquake Drill is Thursday
This Thursday, October 15, all schools and central offices are expected to participate in the 2009 California Shake-out Earthquake Drill. The drill will take place at 10:15 a.m. Students, staff and visitors will practice “Drop, Cover and Hold On!” and other aspects of the site emergency plan. Please review Administrative Procedure 22 . For more information on “Drop, Cover and Hold On!” and the statewide drill, go to www.shakeout.org .
Monthly classified employees who are interested in becoming teachers are encouraged to apply for the Board President’s Scholarship Award, presented annually by the President of the Board of Education and California Coast Credit Union. Two recipients will be selected. Each will receive a $1,000 check at the November 10 board meeting. The application (part 1 and part 2) deadline is Wednesday, October 28. For information, contact Melissa Hudson at mmabe@sandi.net or at (619) 725-5550.
Volunteer Background Checks
School Police Services is working diligently to process the Category C criminal background checks for school volunteers. Changes were implemented on Monday, October 5, to streamline the process and cut the turnaround time in half. In order to facilitate the process, make sure your Request for Volunteer Screening forms are legible and complete. Information regarding the screening process and the volunteer categories can be found at http://old.sandi.net/depts/comm_relations/volunteer_screening_procedures.pdf . If you need more information or have questions, contact Ellen Tiffany at (619) 725-5594 or etiffany@sandi.net . Thank you for your patience as we work to ensure the safety of our students.
Academic Program Survey for All School Site Teachers
Due to the district’s Program Improvement Status under No Child Left Behind, the Academic Program Survey (APS) must be taken by all school site teachers by October 16. The APS is a state-provided tool that collects important input about ways to increase student achievement. Site teachers should contact their principal for assistance in taking the survey. All other questions can be directed to Ana Luisa Biffle, Federal and Special Programs, at (619) 725-7093 or abiffle@sandi.net .
District Assistance Survey for All District Managers, Supervisors and Resource Teachers
Also due to the district’s Program Improvement Status under No Child Left Behind, the District Assistance Survey (DAS) must be taken by October 16 by all district managers, supervisors, resource teachers and parents who serve on district parent committees, such as DAC, DELAC and CAC. The DAS is a state-provided tool that collects important input regarding the support that the district provides schools. For access to the online survey, contact your department head or Ana Luisa Biffle at (619) 725-7093 or abiffle@sandi.net .
Deadline to Ratify New Partnerships in Education
At the November 10 board meeting, the Board of Education will ratify new Partnerships in Education. Schools and district departments/programs with new partners must submit their partnership agreements and partnership contact information to the Community Relations Department no later than Monday, October 19. Contact Kathy Gartland 619-725-5592 or e-mail kgartland@sandi.net for additional information.
Final Notice - Connect-ED Authorized Users
Less than 50% of principals have responded to the e-mail request by Blackboard-Connect to verify all authorized users of the school-wide Connect-ED mass notification system. Only staff members authorized by their principal for 2009-10 will retain user access. All other users will be deleted from the system for security purposes. This applies to school-wide users only – Connect-ED Teacher users are not affected. Principals are asked to e-mail sdusdusers@blackboardconnect.com with a complete list of authorized school-wide users and contact information by the extended deadline of October 20. After October 20, only principals and attendance clerks of schools that have not responded will retain access to Connect-ED. For more information, go to www.sandi.net/ConnectED .
Williams Complaints
Williams Complaints for the period July-September 2009 should be forwarded to Legal Services. Complaints must be received by close of business, Friday, October 23, for our mandatory quarterly filing. Schools should refer to Administrative Procedure 1700, forms Form 1700-02 and the fax transmittal form. Questions concerning Williams Complaints should be referred to Legal Services at (619) 725-5630.
Mossy Automotive Group Employee Discount Program
In an effort to recognize the contributions that San Diego Unified employees make to our schools and students, Mossy Automotive Group and its participating dealerships announce an “Exclusive Club Discount” program for all district employees towards the purchase of a new car, including Nissan, Toyota and Ford vehicles. See flier for discount program details. For more information, contact Aly Evans at (619) 725-5582 or aevans2@sandi.net .
Wear Pink in Recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Employees may choose to wear pink on Thursday, October 15, in recognition of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For more information, visit http://www.nbcam.org/ .
Join the CSA Board of Directors
Community Service Association (CSA) is the district employees' charitable organization providing funding to nonprofit agencies throughout San Diego County. The Board of Directors is comprised of 10 members (2 Administrators, 5 Certificated, and 3 Classified staff members). There is one seat (1 Administrator) on the Board of Directors becoming vacant December 31, 2009. The term of office is expiring for two other Board of Director seats (1 Certificated and 1 Classified). The current office holders will be running for re-election, but CSA is accepting candidates for these positions as well. Administrators, certificated or classified CSA members who would like more information about serving as a board member are asked to contact Michele Fettig, CSA Secretary/Treasurer, at (619) 282-9596 or mfettig@sandi.net, by 5 p.m. on Friday, October 23.
Ed Center Winter Craft Fair
The annual Winter Craft Fair to benefit the Education Center Building Committee will be held Friday, December 4, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the Annex 9 Testing Room. Talented San Diego Unified artisans from the Ed Center and central office sites will have their handicrafts for sale, just in time for the holidays. If you are interested in being an exhibitor or for more information, contact La Donna Chase at lchasecegb@sbcglobal.net .
District Purchase Card Training
District Purchase Card training will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, on October 21, and November 18, in the Ed Center auditorium. Training is required for all new card holders, approvers or reconcilers who have not yet attended this class. RSVP to Julie Nguyen in the Fiscal Control Office at (619) 725-7669 or jnguyen1@sandi.net.
Office Depot Back to Schools Program
Spread the word about the Office Depot Back to Schools Program that earns 5% in Office Depot credit for our schools. Every time you make a purchase at an Office Depot retail store, provide your “Back to Schools” program school ID number. Your favorite school will receive 5% of qualifying school supply purchases in the form of an Office Depot merchandise card. Visit your local Office Depot store to find a listing of 5% Back to Schools ID numbers or visit www.school.com for more information.
Professional Development
Presenters Welcome for K-12 Technology Conference
The district is partnering with the California League of Middle and High Schools to offer a K-12 Technology Conference in San Diego, from December 4-6, 2009. The theme this year is Social, Global & Green – Transforming Learning through Social Media, Global Connections and Sustainable Practices. District staff and teachers from all grade levels are invited to present conference sessions, highlighting educational-technology related innovations occurring in classrooms across the district. Conference presenters will receive complimentary admission to the 3-day conference. If you would like to present a session, please visit the CLS Call for Presenters link at http://www.clms.net/conferences/pres.techsdusd.htm . The deadline for Presenter Applications has been extended to October 15. For more information, go to http://clms.net/conferences/tech.htm, or contact Marty Stultz at (619) 725-7103 or mstultz@sandi.net .
Fall Discover Program Classes Discover the many opportunities available for professional growth, staff development, and district salary advancement credits. To register online and view all course descriptions for Fall 2009, visit the Discover website. For further information, contact Kathy Siverio at (619) 725-7431 or ksiverio@sandi.net .
Connect the Arts to Core Curriculum Free teacher training opportunities are available to learn engaging ways to connect the arts to language arts, math, science and social science curriculum. Free trainings include: Recorder classes, Classics 4 Kids grade 2 GLAEP, Timken 3rd grade GLAEP, Mingei 6th grade GLAEP, elementary music textbook trainings and elementary VAPA lesson trainings. For more information, contact Karen Childress-Evans, VAPA, at (858) 539-5349 or
kchildressevans@sandi.net .
Free Recorder Lessons for Teachers Teachers who would like to learn to play the recorder, read notes and teach students to play the recorder can sign up for a series of six music instruction classes, offered on Tuesdays, October 20 – December 1, from 4-5:30 p.m., at Crown Point Junior Music Academy. Costs are $5 for a recorder and $5 for a method book. Instruction is open to both district and out-of-district teachers. Third grade teachers are especially encouraged to attend – the first 10 3rd grade teachers to sign up will receive a free recorder and method book. See flier for more information.
Funding Opportunities
2010 Inspiration Awards
Each spring the College Board presents Inspiration Awards to three of America's most improved secondary schools, recognized for their outstanding college-preparation programs and partnerships among teachers, parents and community organizations. Awards range from $1000-$25,000. Entry deadline is November 20. See website for more information.
Bob Costas Grants for the Teaching of Writing
College Board grants in the amount of $3000 will be awarded to teachers who inspire students to write. Entry deadline is November 30. See website for more information.
Mission 4R Schools Fundraising Opportunity
Mission Federal Credit Union’s latest program rewards new account holders $25 and a matching $25 donation to a school of choice. See flier
for more information.
Attention: Grant Seekers The Grants and Development Office is prepared to assist you in finding and applying for grant funding. Please visit the Grants and Development web page for helpful tips, forms and step-by-step directions about applying for grants.
Cool to be Smart Program Boosts AP Class Participation
Schools are encouraged to participate in the district’s Cool to be Smart incentive program which encourages students to participate and excel in AP programs. In partnership with Mossy Automotive Group, two new cars will be given away in June 2010. Students must meet five specific criteria related to their AP studies to be eligible. For more information, contact Aly Evans at (619) 725-5582 or aevans2@sandi.net.
Careers in Pharmacy
The pharmacy residents at VA San Diego Healthcare System invite students to learn about exciting careers in pharmacy. Topics of discussion include: reasons to pursue a career in pharmacy, the steps necessary to enter the profession and the various opportunities that are available to pharmacists. Several dates are available during National Pharmacy Week, October 18-24. To schedule a date and for more information, contact Anh-Thu Ha at Anh-Thu.Ha@va.gov or (858) 552-8585 ext 5339.
Free Nano for Logo Contest Winner
The Advanced Placement Incentive Program (APIP) needs a logo and invites contest participation from students at any of the APIP schools: Hoover, Kearny, Madison, Mission Bay, Point Loma and Serra. See contest guidelines and flier for more information. Deadline for logo submissions is November 2.
Character Development School Poster & Essay Contest
YMCA of San Diego County and SDG&E invite K-12 students to participate in an essay or poster contest, which asks them to write or draw about one of the YMCA values: caring, honesty, respect or responsibility. Students are awarded based on grade level and prizes range from Zoo/Wild Animal Park season passes to a full year YMCA membership. Deadline for entries is November 2. See contest information, poster contest guidelines and essay contest guidelines.
U.S. Department of Education’s Video Contest for Students The U.S. Department of Education invites students to submit videos for the "I Am What I Learn!" contest. The contest asks each student to lay out the reasons education is so important to his or her future. Any student with a clear vision of where their education and career training can take them is encouraged to submit a two-minute video. Participating students have the chance to win a $1,000 grand prize. Visit I am what I learn for more information. The deadline for submissions is Monday, November 2.
Internship Opportunities with San Diego North Educational Foundation
High school juniors and seniors looking for meaningful work experience, potential career opportunities and improved communication skills are encouraged to apply. Each student who participates in the Foundation internship program is eligible for a scholarship for their academic costs in the upcoming year. See flier or visit www.sdnef.org
Parent Opportunities
Free Parenting Classes through Parent University
Ballard Parent Center in Old Town will host the first quarter of free parenting classes (flier English | Spanish) from October 13 – December 9, on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. Classes include “Passport to Success”, “Raising Skilled Readers” and “Tools for Life”, and are offered in both English and Spanish. Transportation and childcare are provided for Quarter I classes.
Additional classes include:
San Diego High Parent Night – Sexting & Sexual Exploitation of Children (English | Spanish)
Journey to Academic Success – Project Ujima, focused on African American Children (flier )
For a complete list of classes offered or to register parents, call (619) 293-4431.
Support for Grandparents and Family Members Raising Students
The Rose House Kinship Association www.rosehousekc.org offers free weekly support groups for family members raising grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins or siblings. Locations are available throughout San Diego County. See flier.
Upcoming Events
Special Education Community Meeting
Staff and parents are invited to attend a Community Meeting hosted by the Special Education Division, featuring Tom Hehir, Ed.D. The meeting will be held on Thursday, October 15, from 4:30 to 6 p.m., in the auditorium at Mt. Everest Academy. The meeting will provide an update on the implementation of Hehir's recommendations for the improvement of special education supports and services as well as an opportunity to ask questions. For more information, contact Debbie Clemons at (619) 725-5653 or dclemons@sandi.net .
Barnard-Sponsored Screening at the San Diego Asian Film Festival On Saturday October 17, from 11 a.m. to noon, Barnard Elementary Mandarin Chinese Magnet will co-sponsor a free screening of Nickelodeon’s Nihao Kai Lan, a popular children’s animation that will be presented at the San Diego Asian Film Festival. The movie will be shown at the Ultra Star theatre at Hazard Center in Mission Valley. For more information, contact Edward Park, principal at (619) 224-3306 or epark@sandi.net .
Doyle Elementary International Festival Doyle Elementary will host its annual International Festival on Friday, October 23, from 4-6:30 p.m. The fun-filled event highlights the diverse cultures represented at Doyle. Also enjoy student performances and an international food faire. Admission is free. Call (858) 455-6230 for more information.
Whitman Elementary Halloween Carnival Come have a bewitchingly good time at Whitman Elementary’s Annual Halloween Carnival, Saturday, October 24, from noon to 4 p.m. Enjoy games, food, shopping, live entertainment, silent auction, raffles, a cakewalk and costume contest. Admission is free; small fee for food and games. See flier. For more information or to rent a booth, contact the Whitman PTA at whitmanpta.com .
Zamorano Fine Arts Academy Family Art Night
On Wednesday, October 28, try your hand at several low stress, high success art projects at Zamorano Fine Arts Academy’s 4th Annual Family Art Night. The event takes place from 5-7 p.m., and will include approximately 25 different activities that are budget-friendly and can be done at home. All district employees, families and community members are welcome. Visit the school website for more information.
Kids’ NewsDay The 20th annual Union-Tribune Kids’ NewsDay is Tuesday, October 20. In partnership with NBC 7/39, thousands of volunteers, including school children, firefighters and media celebrities, will sell a special $1 edition of The San Diego Union-Tribune. All proceeds from the paper benefit Rady Children's Hospital. If your school community is interested in supporting this event, visit the Kids’ NewsDay website, call (858) 966-4965 or email sdelong@rchsd.org.
26th Annual SDCUE Technology Fair
Paradise Hills Elementary will hold its Fall Festival on Saturday, October 31, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come join this community event and enjoy games and food. Call (619) 479-3145 for more information or email paradisehillsstaff@yahoo.com.
Free Liberty Station Fall Festival
Enjoy a pumpkin patch, pumpkin carving station, kid's crafts, bounce houses, face painters, balloon artists, hayrides, costume contests and more at the Liberty Station Fall Festival on Saturday, October 24, from 1-5 p.m. For more information, contact (619) 225-9597 or david@recreationalmusiccenter.com .
Save A Life San Diego Community Walk
On Sunday, November 8, the 5K walk will benefit the Light for Life Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program www.yellowribbonsd.org and Survivors of Suicide Loss www.soslsd.org. The event will be held at Balboa Park at 8:30 a.m. Among 5 to 14 year olds, suicide is the fifth leading cause of death; the third leading cause of death among 15 to 24 year olds. For more information, visit http://savealifewalk.kintera.org .
Franklin Elementary Celebrates 80 Years An 80th Year Celebration will be held at the school on Saturday, November 14, at 1 p.m. The Franklin Alumni committee invites former Franklinites to share photos, stories and memorabilia in preparation for the celebration. Visit the reunion website or see flier for registration and other information.
Lindbergh Schweitzer PTA Craft Show
The annual event takes place on November 21, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The show features everything from pottery and ironwork, to jewelry and Christmas décor. See the school website for more information.
Torch Relay for Children’s Miracle Network
The Miles for Miracles Walk will take place on November 7, at Harbor Island Park. The Walk benefits Rady Children’s Hospital of San Diego and all funds raised will be used towards life-saving equipment and medical treatments for children in San Diego County. See flier for more information.
View upcoming events throughout the district on the Campus Calendar.
In Memorium
Esther Kobusch, 1920-2009
Esther Kobusch taught 1st grade at Garfield and Jefferson elementary schools. At the time of her retirement with 52 years of service, she had taught longer than anyone in the district and was the oldest retiree at age 77. Esther passed away on Saturday, October 10. Graveside services will be held Friday, October 16, 2 p.m. at Greenwood Memorial Park. For more information, contact Pamela Kobusch, niece, at (619) 571-2080.
Classified Ads
For Sale
2002 Honda Accord EX: Silver, 4-door, sunroof, 4cyl, automatic, A/C, power windows and alarm. $6,200. Call (949) 244-1519.
Armoire: New, one owner, Century.com, golden khaki, valued at $3,000. Must sell at $550/obo. Call Andrew at (858) 488-5287.
For Rent
Room in East Village Condo: Located next to Petco with great views, private room and bath, parking, gym, washer/dryer. $1,100. Call (760) 485-1101.
Travel
Spring Break in Paris Join art teachers on an 8-day trip, March 26-April 3, 2010. Round trip airfare, ground transportation, hotel, two meals a day and several top attractions and tours included. $2,300. For more information, contact Marty Stegeman at mstegeman@sandi.net.
Japan in Summer 2010
10-day trip to Japan in July/August 2010. $4,000 includes r/t air fare, 3-4 star hotels, all breakfasts and dinners, personal tour guide, taxes, surcharges, entrance fees +. E-mail Julia Groff at jgroff@sandi.net.
Galapagos Islands in Summer 2010 Join Roosevelt Middle School staffers June 29 – July 6, 2010, in the Galapagos Islands. $1,995 (air/land) + taxes. Limited to 30 people. Contact sboe@sandi.net.
Classified ads are accepted from district employees only and cannot be used to advertise commercial activities. Submit ads by e-mail to communications@sandi.net. Limit to 15 words (not including phone number). Include work location and phone number (for ID purposes only).
Do you have an announcement for Newsline?Newsline is published every Monday; the deadline to submit items is noon on the preceding Friday. E-mail items to communications@sandi.net and mark “Newsline” in the subject line.
. For more information on “Drop, Cover and Hold On!” and the statewide drill, go to www.shakeout.org . 
and part 2 
for more information.