December 2, 2011

MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Dear Parents,

Welcome back from the Thanksgiving Break.  We hope you enjoyed some time off to spend with family and friends.  We are just 2 weeks shy of the Winter Break! We understand that December is usually a busy time for everyone.  That said, we'd like to ask for your support in making sure your student is in school every day, on time, and ready to learn.  Let's all stay focused on learning the next couple of weeks! December 2nd marks the end of the 2nd 6-week grading period.  Progress reports will be distributed on December 9th in your student's 4th period class.  Make sure to ask for it!  If you have questions regarding your student's progress, please contact your student's teachers or counselor.  Parent Connect is also a great online tool for monitoring student progress.  Grades will be posted on Parent Connect December 9th. If you would like to sign up for Parent Connect, please stop by the Main Office or the Family Resource Center, Room 231, with a picture ID to request a PIN and password.  The end of the semester is only six weeks away (not including the two week holiday break in December).  It's important students remain focused for the remainder of the semester on school and academics.  Before they realize it, the semester will be over and semester grades will assigned. 

As always, thank you for your support of our students and the school.

-Principal Michael Jimenez

FROM THE COUNSELING OFFICE:

•            Financial Aid Night is Tuesday, December 6th at 6:00 pm in the Serra High Media Center.  Parents of Seniors, please plan to attend this very informative meeting!  All Senior parents will receive a packet with information regarding the Free Application for Free Student Aid (FAFSA).  Parents with underclassmen are also welcome to attend if you would like to find out what is in store for you and your student, however, please keep in mind that informational packets will only be available to the Senior parents.  See you on December 6^th!

 •            Counseling is in need of donations: spiral notebooks, composition books and notebook paper for students who do not have such supplies.  Thank you!

•            Naviance (www.connection.naviance.com/serra) is a web-based service designed especially for students and parents. Family Connection is a comprehensive website that you can use to help in making decisions about colleges, careers and courses, meanwhile tracking academic progress as you aspire to post secondary education options. It is especially useful in searching for Scholarships! To log in students simply use their Student Connect log in number and password. Parents will be able to get their code from Ms. Turnberg by emailing their request to mturnberg@sandi.net.

•            The new College Center in Room 401 is open!  Students are encouraged to stop by on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays during Advisory and lunch. Through January, a counselor is in the room during Advisory and lunch to talk about college applications, help with FAFSA, common app and other relevant college application questions. Beginning in January, after seniors finish their applications, the focus will be on SAT and AP prep for seniors, juniors and sophomores.  Questions?  Contact your student’s counselor.

FROM THE ATTENDANCE OFFICE:

Parents, please remember the front office is short-staff and do not have office monitors to deliver messages to students.  Of course, please know if there is any type of EMERGENCY (i.e. hospitalization, death in the family, deployment etc.) the attendance office staff will assist the parent as needed. 

Please support our efforts in making sure all students come to school on time everyday, ready to learn.  Tardies are highly disruptive to the learning process.  Excused tardies include medical, dental, and court appointments. A doctor/dental or a court document must be presented to the attendance office in order to clear the tardy. You may also fax the excused note to: 858-571-3457.  Unexcused tardies include car trouble, oversleeping, traffic, power outage, etc.

The 2011 Serra High Winter Concert is just around the corner.  Come out and enjoy a family-friendly evening of musical entertainment, prizes, and fun!

                                                                       

     WHAT:   The annual Serra High School Winter Concert.

     WHEN:    Thursday December 8 beginning @ 6:30, concluding around 8:30 pm

     WHERE:  Serra High School Auditorium      

Concert tickets are only $5 for adults, $3 for everyone else!   Refreshments on sale at the concert.  

Dinner tickets (Pasta style)  will be available for purchase for $5 through Dec. 5th. Please contact Mr. Boughner’s class for reservations.  Food service begins @ 5:30 pm. Dinners will be sold on a 1st come/1st served basis for $6 on the evening of the concert.  

Opportunity baskets with Holiday goodies may be available the evening of the concert! 

Sponsored by the Serra Symphonic and Choral Music Boosters. 

Questions? Contact Mr. Boughner at rboughner@sandi.net

SPORTS NEWS

The schedules for Winter Sports have now been posted.  Click on the following link for more information: http://serra.sandi.net/athletics/

FROM LORENE DABNEY (PE TEACHER, GIRLS/BOYS TENNIS COACH): Our tennis courts received a much needed "face lift" recently!  This was made possible by the joint efforts of Open Space and the school district.  It has been a very, very long time since they were re-surfaced and there were spots that had worn down so much that players were slipping, tripping over cracks, and getting injured.  The new surface will be decked in our Serra colors, too!!  If anyone has a chance, come out and see our award winning teams play and check out our beautiful courts!

Many thanks to Jan Eby, President of Open Space, Monica & Pat Weishan for spear-heading the process, Jon Pisapia, Athletic Director and Mike Jimenez, Principal for supporting our efforts in completing this project.  Our tennis program is grateful for everyone involved and we look forward to hosting visiting schools as we represent Serra with pride!

A "ribbon cutting ceremony" will be held on Monday after school and all are welcome to  to attend!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

Senior Exhibitions will be held on January 25 and 26, 2012 from 12:30-3:00pm each day.  We will need plenty of volunteers to ensure the success of this event.  Please consider giving a few hours of your time to support our students. 

The Senior Exhibition Project is a graduation requirement for all students in the San Diego Unified School District.  In order to successfully complete this project, Seniors must reflect upon their accomplishments at Serra High School in front of a panel of teachers, parents, community members, and fellow students.  

For the Exhibition, each student has 8 to 10 minutes, in a job interview-type setting, to demonstrate to the panel that they have met each Q-5.  The students are also required to submit a skilled-based resume.  The presentations conclude with a question and answer period, allowing the panelists to dive deeper for more information.  All students are encouraged to use their creativity to make their Senior Exhibition Project as meaningful, enjoyable, and unique as possible. 

The requirements for volunteers serving on a Senior Exhibition panel are to listen to the presentations, actively participate in the Q&A period, and score each presentation.  This is a great opportunity to learn about the knowledge, skills, and accomplishments of our amazing students!  Many of our volunteers tell us that being a Senior Exhibition panelist is their favorite volunteer assignment!

If you are interested in helping out with Senior Exhibitions, please contact Marie Byrd (mbyrd@sandi.net or call 858-496-8342 x231). 

 

EVENTS

Saturday, December 3

• All day - CHEER CAMP-CHG
• All day - NJROTC Drill Meet @ Paloma Valley
• 8:00am - Biotechology Field Trip
• 8:00am - SATURDAY SCHOOL
• 5:00pm - Key Club Division Spirit Battle

Sunday, December 4

• All day - NJROTC Charger Game Fundraiser

Monday, December 5

• All day - Pink Progress Report Day
• All day - Beginning of 3rd Grading Period
• All day - Club Elevated Coat Drive
• 9:00am - College Fair Field Trip
• 6:00pm - AP BIO Study Group

Tuesday, December 6

• All day - Club Elevated Coat Drive
• 6:00pm - College Financial Aid Night
• 6:00pm - ELAC Committee Meeting

Wednesday, December 7

• All day - Club Elevated Coat Drive
• 6:30pm - Foundation Meeting

Thursday, December 8

• All Day - Club Elevated Coat Drive
• 8:00am - Biotechnology Field Trip
• 6:30pm - Choir & Orchestra Winter Concert

Friday, December 9

• All day - Club Elevated Coat Drive

Saturday, December 10

• All day - CHEER CAMP-CHG
• All day - NJROTC Drill Meet @ PHHS
• 8:00am - SATURDAY SCHOOL

Sunday, December 11

• All day - NJROTC Charger Game Fundraiser

SPORTS

Friday, December 2

• All day - Boys Varsity Bball West HillsTourney/TIME TBA
• All day - Girls Varsity Water Polo Invite/TIME & LOC.TBA
• 3:00pm - Boys JV Bball Tourney vs MHS @ Lincoln
• 5:00pm - Girls JV Bball Tourney vs Sweetwater
• 5:30pm - Powderpuff Game(tentative)
• 5:30pm - Girls JV Soccer @ Helix
• 7:00pm - Girls Varsity Bball Tourney vs Sweetwater

Saturday, December 3

• All day - Boys JV Bball Tourney @ Lincoln/TIME TBA
• All day - Boys Varsity Bball West HillsTourney/TIME TBA
• All day - Boys Varsity Soccer Tourney @ SDHS/TIME TBA
• All day - Girls JV & Varsity SoccerTourney/TIME & LOC TBA
• All day - Girls Varsity Water Polo Invite/TIME & LOC.TBA
• 8:00am - Tierrasanta Cougars Popwarner- Football Cheer Event
• 9:00am - Wrestling JV Tourney @ Mater Dei
• 12:00pm - Girls JV vs El Camino @ Hilltop
• 5:00pm - Girls JV Bball Tourney vs Escondido
• 7:00pm - Girls Varsity Bball Tourney vs Escondido

Sunday, December 4

• All day - Boys Varsity Bball West HillsTourney/TIME TBA
• All day - Girls JV & Varsity SoccerTourney/TIME & LOC TBA

Monday, December 5

• All day - Boys Varsity Bball West HillsTourney/TIME TBA
• All day - Girls JV & Varsity SoccerTourney/TIME & LOC TBA
• 3:00pm - Girls JV Bball Tourney @ OLP
• 3:15pm - Girls Varsity Soccer vs MBHS
• 5:00pm - Girls Varsity Bball Tourney @ OPL

Tuesday, December 6

• All day - Boys Varsity Bball West HillsTourney/TIME TBA
• All day - Girls JV & Varsity SoccerTourney/TIME & LOC TBA
• 3:15pm - Girls Varsity Soccer @ Santana
• 3:30pm - Girls JV Soccer @ Montgomery
• 5:00pm - Girls JV Bball Tourney @ Bonita Vista
• 7:00pm - Girls Varsity Bball Tourney @ Bonita Vista

Wednesday, December 7

• All day - Boys Varsity Bball West HillsTourney/TIME TBA
• All day - Girls JV & Varsity SoccerTourney/TIME & LOC TBA
• 3:00pm - Boys Frosh Bball @ Lincoln
• 3:00pm - Boys JV Soccer vs Bonita Vista
• 3:15pm - Girls JV Soccer @ El Capitan
• 4:45pm - Boys JV Bball @ Lincoln
• 5:00pm - Boys Varsity Soccer vs Bonita Vista
• 5:30pm - Girls Var/JV Water Polo vs Eastlake @ SW

Thursday, December 8

• All day - Boys Varsity Bball West HillsTourney/TIME TBA
• All day - Girls JV & Varsity SoccerTourney/TIME & LOC TBA
• 3:00pm - Girls Var/JV Water Polo vs PLHS @ Bud Kearns
• 3:15pm - Girls Varsity Soccer vs El Camino

Friday, December 9

• All day - Boys Varsity Bball West HillsTourney/TIME TBA
• All day - Girls JV & Varsity SoccerTourney/TIME & LOC TBA
• All day - Girls JV Water Polo Tourney @ LJHS/TIME TBA
• 5:00pm - Boys Frosh Bball @ Steele Canyon

Saturday, December 10

• All day - Boys JV Bball Tourney/LOC.& TIME TBA
• All day - Boys Varsity Bball West HillsTourney/TIME TBA
• All day - Boys Varsity Soccer Tourney @ SDHS/TIME TBA
• All day - Girls JV & Varsity SoccerTourney/TIME & LOC TBA
• All day - Girls JV Ball Tourney/LOC.& TIME TBA
• All day - Girls JV Water Polo Tourney @ LJHS/TIME TBA
• All day - Girls Varsity Bball Tourney/LOC.& TIME TBA
• 9:00am - Wrestling Varsity Invite Tourney @ MMHS
• 1:00pm - Boys Frosh Bball vs Hilltop

Sunday, December 11

• All day - Boys JV Bball Tourney/LOC.& TIME TBA
• 9:30am - Serra High School Field Hockey Clinic

November 18, 2011

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!  There is no school next week, November 21 - 25 due to the Thanksgiving break.   We hope you have an enjoyable and restful week with family and friends.  School will resume on Monday, November 28^th.

TAKE ACTION AND SAVE TITLE 1 FUNDING AT YOUR SCHOOL!  Schools receive Title I funding based on the percentage of students who receive free or reduced lunch.  In the past, schools were eligible to receive this funding if 40% of students qualified for free or reduced lunch.   Currently, some members on the Board of Education want to raise the threshold from 40% to 75%.  A shift of threshold means we would lose thousands of dollars of federal funding which will hurt programs at many schools!  If you feel strongly about this issue, please contact your local and state representatives or send a letter to the editor.  Go to: http://www.voiceforourkids.com/GenPage.aspx?PageName=Opinion  for contact information.

FROM THE COUNSELING OFFICE: 

• Counseling is in need of donations: spiral notebooks, composition books and notebook paper for students who do not have such supplies.  Thank you!
• The California State University (CSU) and University of California (UC)  application period closes November 30th. Don't wait until the last minute.  Make sure your student gets his/her college applications in now!

• SAVE THE DATE!  Financial Aid Night is Tuesday, December 6th at 6:00 pm in the Serra High Media Center.

• Naviance (www.connection.naviance.com/serra) is a web-based service designed especially for students and parents. Family Connection is a comprehensive website that you can use to help in making decisions about colleges, careers and courses, meanwhile tracking academic progress as you aspire to post secondary education options. It is especially useful in searching for Scholarships! To log in students simply use their Student Connect log in number and password. Parents will be able to get their code from Ms. Turnberg by emailing their request to mturnberg@sandi.net.

           Scholarship Highlights which can be found on the Naviance website:

           1.  Abbott and Fenner Scholarship of $1,000

           2.  Jackie Robinson Family YMCA Scholarship of $2,000

           3.  Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship of $1,000

• The new College Center in Room 401 is open!  Students are encouraged to stop by on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays during Advisory and lunch. Through January, a counselor is in the room during Advisory and lunch to talk about college applications, help with FAFSA, common app and other relevant college application questions. Beginning in January, after seniors finish their applications, the focus will be on SAT and AP prep for seniors, juniors and sophomores.  Questions?  Contact your student’s counselor.

FROM THE ATTENDANCE OFFICE:

Reminder:  It is important to clear absences within five (5) days.  You may call us with the information (858-496-8342 xt. 205, 206 & 209) or send a note with your student.  Please include the following information: 

• Student name-(first & please spell the last name)
• Grade
• Reason for absence
• Your name/relationship
• A phone number for verification

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!  The 2011 Serra High Winter Concert is just around the corner. 

Come out and enjoy a family-friendly evening of musical entertainment, prizes, and fun!                                                                       

     WHAT:   The annual Serra High School Winter Concert.

     WHEN:    Thursday December 8 beginning @ 6:30, concluding around 8:30 pm

     WHERE:  Serra High School Auditorium      

Concert tickets are only $5 for adults, $3 for everyone else!   Refreshments on sale at the concert.  

Dinner tickets (Pasta style)  will be available for purchase for $5 through Dec. 5th. Please contact Mr. Boughner’s class for reservations.  Food service begins @ 5:30 pm. Dinners will be sold on a 1st come/1st served basis for $6 on the evening of the concert.  

Opportunity baskets with Holiday goodies may be available the evening of the concert! 

Sponsored by the Serra Symphonic and Choral Music Boosters.  Questions? Contact Mr. Boughner at rboughner@sandi.net

SPORTS NEWS

FROM LORENE DABNEY (PE TEACHER, GIRLS/BOYS TENNIS COACH): Our tennis courts are getting a "face lift" this week!  With the joint efforts of Open Space and the school district, they should be complete by the time we come back from Thanksgiving break!  It has been a very, very long time since they were re-surfaced and there were spots that had worn down so much that players were slipping, tripping over cracks, and getting injured.  The new surface will be decked in our Serra colors, too!!  If anyone has a chance, come out and see our award winning teams play and check out our beautiful courts!

Many thanks to Jan Eby, President of Open Space, Monica & Pat Weishan for spear-heading the process, Jon Pisapia, Athletic Director and Mike Jimenez, Principal for supporting our efforts in completing this project.  Our tennis program is grateful for everyone involved and we look forward to hosting visiting schools as we represent Serra with pride!

CIF PLAYOFFS UPDATE

This has been an EXCITING TIME for Serra Athletic Teams with everyone making the playoffs!  


Serra Field Hockey- Division II Champions!!


Serra Boys Water Polo- Division II Champions!!


Varsity Football defeats Kearny!  Next up Olympian High School, date and time TBA.

Tennis this week had outstanding matches during their run in the CIF Playoffs.

EVENTS

Sunday, November 20

• NJROTC Charger Game Fundraiser

Monday, November 21 through Friday, November 25

• Thanksgiving Break- NO SCHOOL

Sunday, November 27

• NJROTC Charger Game Fundraiser

Thursday, December 1

• 6:30pm -  Improv Show

Friday, December 2

• END OF GRADING PERIOD

• 8:00am - Biotechology Field Trip
• 8:00am - SATURDAY SCHOOL
• CHEER CAMP
• Club Elevated Coat Drive
• NJROTC Drill Meet @ Paloma Valley 
• 5:00pm -  Key Club Division Spirit Battle

Sunday, December 4

• Club Elevated Coat Drive
• NJROTC Charger Game Fundraiser

SPORTS

Monday, November 21 through Friday, November 25

• Thanksgiving Break- No School

Saturday, November 26

• 8:00am - Cross Country State Meet

Tuesday, November 29

• 6:30pm - Football Parent Meeting

Friday, December 2

• 5:30pm - Powderpuff Game(tentative)

Saturday, December 3

• 8:00am - Tierrasanta Cougars Popwarner- Football Cheer Event

CALLOUT FOR VOLUNTEERS!

From the Serra Foundation President, Norm Ryan:  As you already know.....Serra High School is the site of the CIF San Diego Section Field Hockey Finals. Two games will be played at Serra with scheduled starts of 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm.

In our continuing effort to raise funds for both Foundation and Athletics, Foundation parents, Field Hockey and Football Parents in particular are requested to volunteer for snack bar duty beginning at 2:30 pm on Saturday, November 19. We will keep the snack bar open until past half time of the second game, likely 7 pm.  If you'd like to volunteer for this event, contact: Norm Ryan nryan@rmwfirm.com

 

P.S: you get in free! (it costs to attend CIF Championship events).

November 14, 2011

Serra High School's "Come to School With Your Student" day was a success!  We had close to 90 parents on campus Thursday, November 10th.  The event provided a perfect opportunity for parents to get a first-hand look at what's happening at Serra.  We’d like to thank all the parents who came to school to visit classrooms and attend the parent workshops.  Your involvement is recognized and appreciated!  Thanks also goes out to the Serra High PTO Hospitality crew, Tracy Morter and Tina LaRocco, for providing refreshments for Thursday's event.


CIF Update:
Tennis, Field Hockey, Boys Water Polo Football and Cross Country all have CIF playoffs this week.  Check the Serra Web Site or Facebook for the latest updates. 

MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Our first Principal's Chat for the 2011-12 school year will be held on Tuesday, November 15th at 6:00pm.  Get the latest scoop on campus life, academic triumphs and challenges, budget updates, and more.  And - it's a great way to get your questions answered and have your voice heard.  Our monthly PTO meeting will immediately follow at 6:30pm. Get involved and stay informed.  I'll see you at the Principal's Chat!  - Principal Mike Jimenez

Thank you to all the parents for returning their Federal Survey Cards in such a timely manner!  The school district receives over 8 million dollars each year based the information received.  During these tight budget times, securing every amount of funding is critical.  As of 2:00pm Monday we still have 53 cards to collect.  If your student is one of the 53, please come to the office and fill one out. 

FROM THE COUNSELING OFFICE:

Attention Senior Parents:  The University of California application filing period opened on November 1st!  UC and CSU filing period closes November 30.  Don't procrastinate.  Apply now!  If your student has questions regarding the application process, she or he may schedule an appointment with her/his counselor.

Naviance (www.connection.naviance.com/serra) is a web-based service designed especially for students and parents.  Family Connection is a comprehensive website that you can use to help in making decisions about colleges, careers and courses, meanwhile tracking academic progress as you aspire to post secondary education options.  It is especially useful in searching for Scholarships!  To log in students simply use their Student Connect log in number and password.  Parents will be able to get their code from Ms. Turnberg by emailing their request to mturnberg@sandi.net.

The following scholarships can be found on Naviance:

   1. Delta Theta Chi Scholarship: up to $3,000 for the child or grandchild of a Delta Theta Chi member

   2. U S Bank $1,000 scholarships: 40 scholarships awarded in a random drawing.

   3. Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship: $10,000 awarded to the winning drawing 

CORRECTED: Winter Sports Try Out Information.  Please note:  Students interested in a winter sport must be at try-outs everyday.  Visit the Serra website for starting dates and times.  Please note the following:

    * Athletic Packets are available online.  Check the Serra website.

    * Athletic Packets are Due by NOVEMBER 5 to Coach Pisapia or the front office.

    * Students must have a 2.0 (non-weighted) GPA in Academics and Citizenship.

    * Students must pick-up "My Ticket To Play" in the Physical Education Classroom.

          - Students can not try-out without a ticket.

          - Pick up tickets at lunch or after school Monday, November 7-Thursday November 10.

    * Students can not try-out with a ticket.

Support the Serra High School Band and Colorguard! Come out and show your support for our Golden Regiment Band and Guard as they perform at their last Field Competition on November 12th in Vista.  For more info go to: www.serrabandboosters.org

POWDERPUFF 2011 IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER!  Don’t miss out on the fun!  On December 2nd the Juniors ladies will take on the Senior ladies!




LOOKING AHEAD:  Thanksgiving Break is right around the corner.  School will be closed Monday, November 21st through Friday, November 25th.

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS!

• Snack bar helpers.  Volunteers are needed to help in the snack bar at the December 2nd Powderpuff football game.  Please help support the football boosters by donating a couple of hours in the snack bar.

• Assistance needed in the Media Center (Library). The librarian is looking for a creative volunteer who can help him decorate the Media Center, working with different themes, during the school year.

• Help is needed in the Nurse’s Office. Assist the Nurse with filing, checking-in students, and other tasks as needed.

• The Parent Center needs help with a few basic office tasks. Help is needed 1 or 2 hours per week, or just stop by when you have some time to lend a hand. The room is open Monday through Friday 9:00-3:00pm.

All new AND returning volunteers must have a current volunteer application and proof of a negative TB test on file with the school. Volunteer applications must be renewed every year. TB tests are valid for 4 years. It is important for the safety of our students that the proper paperwork is on file for every volunteer. Forms are available online at: http://serra.sandi.net/volunteer/ or at the school in the main office. Please contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Marie Byrd (mbyrd@sandi.net or call 858-496-8342 x231) for more information.

EVENTS

Tuesday, November 15

6:00pm - Principal's Chat, followed by the 6:30pm PTO Meeting

6:30pm - Football Parent Meeting

Wednesday, November 16

5:00pm - Band & Flags Rehearsal

6:00pm - Freshman Football Award Banquet

Thursday, November 17

6:00pm - Winter Sports Parent Night

Saturday, November 19

8:00am - SATURDAY SCHOOL

Sunday, November 20

All day - NJROTC Charger Game Fundraiser

SPORTS - Check The Serra Web Site For The Latest CIF Information (Tennis, Water Polo, Football, Field Hockey and Cross Country)

November 4, 2011

"Come to School with Your Student" Day will be held next week on November 10^th! Parents, some of your students may be telling you that you do not need to come to school that day.  Not true!  This is the perfect opportunity to observe your student's classrooms and get a first-hand look at what's happening at school.   Go to: http://serrahighnews.blogspot.com/ for information and to sign up today.


The following parent workshops will be held during the morning for those who are interested in visiting the campus on November 10^th but may not want to observe all of their student’s classrooms:

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

7:10am – Check-in, Room 231-Family Resource Ctr.
and pick up your student’s schedule

7:30am - 2:20pm – Classroom visits

MORNING WORKSHOPS

7:45-8:15am – Using Naviance to track student progress, find scholarships, and more

8:45-10:00am – A-G requirements for High School Students

10:20-11:00am – Information and Resources for Military Families

Parent Connect sign-ups – ALL DAY

You will take away so much valuable information about your student when you come to school on November 10!  Follow this link to sign up for the event http://serrahighnews.blogspot.com/.  Reserve your space today!  Refreshments will be provided by the Serra High PTO.  Questions? Contact Marie Byrd mbyrd@sandi.net or 858-496-8342 x231.  See you on November 10^th!

MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

SAVE THE DATE!  Our first Principal's Chat for the 2011-12 school year will be held on Tuesday, November 15th at 6:00pm.  Get the latest scoop on campus life, academic triumphs and challenges, budget updates, and more.  And - it's a great way to get your questions answered and have your voice heard.  Our monthly PTO meeting will immediately follow at 6:30pm. Get involved and stay informed.  I'll see you at the Principal's Chat!  - Principal Mike Jimenez

FROM THE COUNSELING OFFICE:

Scholarship information is available on Naviance - Family Connection. 

(www.connection.naviance.com/serra). Naviance is a web-based service designed especially for students and parents.  Family Connection is a comprehensive website that you can use to help in making decisions about colleges, careers and courses, meanwhile tracking academic progress as you aspire to post secondary education options.  It is especially useful in searching for Scholarships!  To log in students simply use their Student Connect log in number and password.  Parents will be able to get their code from Ms. Turnberg by emailing their request to mturnberg@sandi.net .

RESOURCES FOR MILITARY FAMILIES

Our first Military Parent meeting will take place on Tuesday, November 8^th at 9:30am in the Family Resource Center, Room 231.  All are invited to this meeting.   The purpose of the meeting is to discuss ways the school and parents can work together to best support our military students and families.  The meeting room has a kids’ play area and parents are welcome to bring their younger children.  For more information: mbyrd@sandi.net or 858-496-8342 x231.

The holidays are fast approaching and there are many events being planned and services offered in the San Diego community for our military families. To find out about holiday events and resources for military families such as the Fleet & Family Support Center Holiday workshops, San Diego Thanksgiving, Santa Store, Toys for Tots, and much more, Click here to go to the Military Families web page on the San Diego Unified School District website.  You can also find this information in the Family Resource Center, located in Room 231 on the Serra High Campus.  Questions?  Contact Marie Byrd mbyrd@sandi.net.

School Pictures are ready for pick-up!  Students may pick up their picture package orders from the Financial Clerk’s Window before, after school and during lunch.

Support the Serra High School Band and Colorguard! Come out and show your support for our Golden Regiment Band and Guard at their upcoming Field Competitions:

Nov. 5 – Mira Mesa

Nov. 12 - Vista

For more info go to: www.serrabandboosters.org

POWDERPUFF 2011 IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER!  Don’t miss out on the fun!  On December 2^nd the Juniors ladies will take on the Senior ladies!

Congratulations to the Girls Tennis team!  They went into CIF this past Tuesday as the #4 seed in Division II.  We’re proud of their achievements!  

FROM THE ATTENDANCE OFFICE:

Parents, please support our efforts in making sure all students come to school on time everyday, ready to learn.  Tardies are highly disruptive to the learning process.  Excused tardies include medical, dental, and court appointments. A doctor/dental or a court document must be presented to the attendance office in order to clear the tardy. You may also fax the excused note to: 858-571-3457.  Unexcused tardies include car trouble, oversleeping, traffic, power outage, etc.

If your student is transferring from Serra High School you must notify the school at least 1 week before the last day of attendance.  At that time we will give you information as to what your student will need for that last day.  Following this simple procedure will allow for a smoother transition for you and your student.  Thank you.

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS!

• Snack bar helpers.  Volunteers are needed to help in the snack bar at the December 2^nd Powderpuff football game.  Please help support the football boosters by donating a couple of hours in the snack bar. 

• Assistance needed in the Media Center (Library). The librarian is looking for a creative volunteer who can help him decorate the Media Center, working with different themes, during the school year.

• Help is needed in the Nurse’s Office. Assist the Nurse with filing, checking-in students, and other tasks as needed.

• The Parent Center needs help with a few basic office tasks. Help is needed 1 or 2 hours per week, or just stop by when you have some time to lend a hand. The room is open Monday through Friday 9:00-3:00pm. 

All new AND returning volunteers must have a current volunteer application and proof of a negative TB test on file with the school. Volunteer applications must be renewed every year. TB tests are valid for 4 years. It is important for the safety of our students that the proper paperwork is on file for every volunteer. Forms are available online at: http://serra.sandi.net/volunteer/ or at the school in the main office. Please contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Marie Byrd (mbyrd@sandi.net or call 858-496-8342 x231) for more information.

EVENTS

Saturday, November 5

• 7:00am - AP Super Saturday
• 8:00am - SATURDAY SCHOOL
• 11:00am - Band & Flags Field Competition
• 2:30pm - Field Trip-BAND

Sunday, November 6

• All day - NJROTC Charger Game Fundraiser

Monday, November 7

• 3:00pm - SSC Meeting

Wednesday, November 9

• 5:00pm - Band & Flags Rehearsal

Thursday, November 10

• All day - Come to School with your Student Day

Friday, November 11

• All day - NJROTC @ Veterans Parade
• All day - Veterans Day- No School
• 9:00am - NJROTC Field Trip

Saturday, November 12

• 10:00am - Band & Flags Field Competition
• 1:30pm - Field Trip-BAND

Sunday, November 13

• All day - NJROTC Charger Game Fundraiser

SPORTS

Friday, November 4

• 3:00pm - Boys Water Polo @ La Jolla
• 3:00pm - Varsity Field Hockey vs Mira Mesa
• 4:15pm - JV Field Hockey vs. Mira Mesa
• 6:30pm - Varsity Football @ LJHS

Saturday, November 5

• 5:00pm - Boys Water Polo vs. Scripps Ranch

Monday, November 7

• 3:00pm - Varsity Field Hockey @ Patrick Henry
• 4:15pm - JV Field Hockey vs. Patrick Henry
• 6:00pm - Girls Bball Open Gym

Tuesday, November 8

• 2:45pm - Cross Country League Finals
• 5:00pm - Football Night Practice
• 6:00pm - Boys Bball Open Gym

Wednesday, November 9

• 2:30pm - JV Football vs Pt Loma
• 2:30pm - Freshmen Football @ Pt. Loma
• 3:00pm - Varsity Field Hockey @ Scripps Ranch
• 4:15pm - JV Field Hockey @ Scripps Ranch

Thursday, November 10

• 2:30pm - Varsity Football @ PLHS
• 6:00pm - Boys Bball Open Gym

Friday, November 11

• Veterans Day- No School

October 28, 2011

Federal Survey Cards will be sent home on Monday.  Federal Survey cards will be sent home with every student on Monday, October 31st.  Be sure to complete, sign, and return the card as soon as possible.  Returning this card is critical for school funding as the district receives over 8 million dollars each year based the information received.  Please know this information is kept confidential and is used for filing the claim for federal funding only. During these tight budget times, securing this funding is critical.  Thank you in advance taking the time to complete the cards and return them to school as soon as possible.

Halloween is on Monday and students and teachers are encouraged to get in the spirit by dressing for the day!  To make this day a success students must follow certain guidelines. 

• All costumes must be “G” rated.
• The School dress code policy must be followed.
• Costumes may only be worn on Monday October 31st.
• Costumes may not be a disruption to instruction in any way.  
• Costumes may not be derogatory or offensive to any groups or individuals.
• Costumes may not include any weaponry or representations of weapons, or indicate the use of drugs or alcohol.
• Masks or any face decoration that makes it difficult to identify the student is not permitted. 

The bottom line is, costumes may not be a disruption to instruction in any way.  Even if all the above rules are followed, a teacher or administrator may still deem the costume a disruption. 

This is meant to be fun day and enjoyed by all students.  If a costume fails to comply with any of the above expectations the student will be detained and disciplinary action may result. Remember, students will be held accountable for your personal conduct as well.  Our expectation of student behavior is as high as it is on any other day.

Students received their first progress report on Friday, October 28th during their 4th period class.  Make sure to ask your student for it!

Join us at the English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC) monthly meeting on Tuesday, November 1st at 6:00pm in room 231.  Agenda items to be discussed: Writing of the Bylaws and reviewing Student Questioners.  Parents, your attendance, comments, and suggestions are highly appreciated as we work together to improve the academic achievement of our English Learners at Serra High School.

Serra High is offering a free basic skills Computer Class for parents on November 3rd. Two sessions will be held: 9:30-10:30am and 6:00-7:00pm in the Serra High School Media Center. This is a basic skills class for parents and will cover topics such as: setting up an email account, navigating the web, and using Parent Connect. To sign up, please contact Martha Vidana-Cross, x203 or Marie Byrd, x231.

Save the Date! "Come to School with Your Student" Day will be held on November 10th. This is a great way to observe some of your student's classrooms and get a first-hand look at what's happening at school.  Parent workshops will also be scheduled during the morning for those who may not want to observe the classrooms but are interested in coming to the campus. Refreshments will be provided by the Serra High PTO.

FROM THE COUNSELING OFFICE:

Attention Senior Parents:  The University of California application filing period opens November 1!  UC and CSU filing period closes November 30.  Don't procrastinate.  Apply now!  If your student has questions regarding the application process, she or he may schedule an appointment with her/his counselor.

Scholarship information is available on Naviance - Family Connection. 

(www.connection.naviance.com/serra). Naviance is a web-based service designed especially for students and parents.  Family Connection is a comprehensive website that you can use to help in making decisions about colleges, careers and courses, meanwhile tracking academic progress as you aspire to post secondary education options.  It is especially useful in searching for Scholarships!  To log in students simply use their Student Connect log in number and password.  Parents will be able to get their code from Ms. Turnberg by emailing their request to mturnberg@sandi.net .

Helpful tip for parents - Sign up for Parent Connect!  Stay informed of your child’s progress at school.  Parent Connect is an on-line program that provides parents  with important information about their student/s.

Parent Connect FAQs:

What type of information is available from Parent Connect?

    * Daily Class Schedule

    * Detailed Attendance Information by Date and Period

    * Homework Assignments and Links to Teacher E-mail Addresses

    * Progress Reports and Semester Grades

How Do I Sign-Up for Parent Connect?

Please stop by the front office or come to the Parent Center (Room 231) with a picture ID and request a PIN and password.

FROM THE ATTENDANCE OFFICE:

Reminder to all parents: Students who become ill during the school day MUST visit the Health Office for assessment. If is determined that a student needs to go home, parents will be contacted and the Health Office staff will issue the Blue Slip.

Serra High School needs to have your current information on file. Please make sure we have current telephone numbers. If you have moved please bring a new proof of residence to the attendance office as soon as possible so that you don’t miss any information.  Proof of residence must be one of the following: gas & electric bill, cable or water bill,  housing orders or rental agreement. Thank you for your cooperation.

RESOURCES FOR MILITARY FAMILIES

The holidays are fast approaching and there are many events being planned and services offered in the San Diego community for our military families. To find out about holiday events and resources for military families such as the FFSC Holiday workshops, USO SD Thanksgiving, USO Santa Store, Toys for Tots, and much more, Click here to go to the Military Families web page on the San Diego Unified School District website.  You can also find this information in the Family Resource Center, located in Room 231 on the Serra High Campus.  Questions?  Contact Marie Byrd mbyrd@sandi.net.

Does your student need help with homework? Or a place to complete homework after school? The Opportunities After School Program will be offering tutoring in the Media Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:30 - 3:30. Teachers will be available to assist students with homework. Bus passes will ONLY be provided for students who participate. A light snack will also be provided. For more information, please contact Adrian Vazquez x142.

Support the Serra High School Band and Colorguard! Come out and cheer on our Golden Regiment Band and Guard at their upcoming Field Competitions:

Oct. 29 - Mt. Carmel HS

Nov. 5 – Mira Mesa

Nov. 12 - Vista

For more info go to: www.serrabandboosters.org

The Serra High PTO is in need of a President! How about you?? The duties of the President include: presiding over the meetings; coordinating various activities throughout the school year; appointing committee chairs/coordinators when necessary; signing checks when necessary; approving PTO-related materials for school distribution; reviewing all contracts to be signed by the Executive Board.

No experience as a PTO President, you say? No problem! There will be plenty of help from the other board members to ensure your time as President is successful. Please consider contributing in this very important way!  For more information regarding the PTO, contact: SerraHighPTO@gmail.com

EVENTS

Friday, October 28

    * PROGRESS REPORTS DISTRIBUTED

Saturday, October 29

    * 8:00am - SATURDAY SCHOOL

    * 1:00pm - Field Trip - BAND

Sunday, October 30

    * All day - NJROTC Charger Game Fundraiser

Monday, October 31

    * Pink Progress Report Day

Tuesday, November 1

    * All day - CAHSEE- ELA

    * 6:00pm - ELAC Committee Meeting

Wednesday, November 2

    * All day - CAHSEE- Math

    * 5:00pm - Band & Flags Rehearsal

    * 6:30pm - Foundation Meeting

Thursday, November 3

    * 9:30am and 6:00pm - Parent Computer Training (Parent Connect, Email, Internet)

Friday, November 4

    * 6:30pm - Improv Show

Saturday, November 5

    * 8:00am - SATURDAY SCHOOL

    * 11:00am - Band & Flags Field Competition

    * 2:30pm - Field Trip-BAND

Sunday, November 6

    * All day - NJROTC Charger Game Fundraiser

SPORTS

Friday, October 28

    * 6:30pm - Varsity Football vs Madison

Saturday, October 29

    * 7:00am - NJROTC Battalion Sports Day

    * 7:30am - Taekwondo Tournament

Monday, October 31

    * 3:00pm - Varsity Field Hockey vs. UC

    * 4:15pm - JV Field Hockey vs UC

    * 6:00pm - Girls Bball Open Gym

Tuesday, November 1

    * 2:45pm - Cross Country vs Saints/OLP

    * 3:00pm - Boys Water Polo vs Pt. Loma

    * 3:30pm - Varsity Girls Volleyball @ Mission Bay

    * 5:00pm - Football Night Practice

    * 5:00pm - JV & Frosh Girls Volleyball @ Mission Bay

    * 6:00pm - Boys Bball Open Gym

Wednesday, November 2

    * 3:15pm - Varsity Field Hockey @ Cathedral

    * 4:30pm - JV Field Hockey @ Cathedral

Thursday, November 3

    * 3:00pm - Frosh Football @ LJHS

    * 3:00pm - JV Football vs LJHS

    * 6:00pm - Boys Bball Open Gym

Friday, November 4

    * 3:00pm - Boys Water Polo @ La Jolla

    * 3:00pm - Varsity Field Hockey vs Mira Mesa

    * 4:15pm - JV Field Hockey vs. Mira Mesa

    * 6:30pm - Varsity Football @ LJHS

Saturday, November 5

    * 5:00pm - Boys Water Polo vs. Scripps Ranch