Teens converged on Hamilton Library to judge pizza from local eateries on Oct. 16—after all, kids are pretty much connoisseurs of the cheesy dish.
The students voted for best sauce, crust and pizza based on a taste test of food from Barro’s, Floridino’s Pizza and Pasta, Fired Pie and Sauce during the National Pizza Month event.
There was a tie for best sauce; Floridino’s and Sauce were the winners. Barro’s took home the prize for best crust. Fired Pie won the big prize: best overall pizza.
Hannah Verdin, a staff member at the Hamilton Chandler Library, said the event was scheduled to build relationships with local businesses.
“We are happy to meet them and invite them to the library and show them that we’re a fun place to be and hopefully they can get some new business as well, too,” Verdin said.
The restaurants were required to donate the pizzas. Judges had to be teenagers who enjoy pizza.
Floridino’s Pizza and Pasta, located at 590 N. Alma School Rd., has been in business since 1996. There’s a secret behind its success: Make everything cheesy, said Sarah Converse, Floridino’s event manager.
“We are known for pizza muffins,” Converse said. “This year is going to be our 20th anniversary.”
The pizza muffins are so popular they
were even in Food Network Magazine.
Another participant was Sauce Pizza and Wine located at Queen Creek and Alma School roads. Part of a chain, that location has been open for about eight years, said Vanessa Bass, Sauce assistant manager. Sauce’s secret ingredient? Freshness.
“Every single thing that we make everyday is fresh,” Bass said.
Fired Pie was represented by its general manager, Stephanie Fuller, who said the 2-year-old restaurant is a favorable destination.
“Fresh ingredients, homemade crust, homemade sauce, secret family recipe and of course friendly staff,” Fuller said is what makes Fired Pie unique.”
A representative from Barro’s was unavailable.
Nicole Choksi is a sports journalism major at ASU. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.
Looking For An Orthodontist...
From Dr. Chamberlain’s Desktop
If you happen to read many Facebook group pages, you will likely come across a question from a mom asking about a referral to an orthodontist in the area. Google, Yelp and Facebook have changed the way we find things today. From a good restaurant to an orthodontist. Reviews are a wonderful beginning. In this article, however, I’d like to discuss some additional ideas you can use to determine your decision on an orthodontist. After all, if 93% of people surveyed feel that a good-looking smile can help determine your employment and career status, then it must be an important decision.
After an initial search, involving a look at google reviews, a phone call to the office is the next step. You should be looking for timeliness of the appointment and the hours they keep during the
Cornhole tournament highlights Rock the Block!
BY MEGAN MARPLES
Downtown Chandler’s Rock the Block! is returning for a sixth year on Saturday, Nov. 14, but this fall it has a different spin.
It has added a cornhole tournament to its list of events. Teams of two will compete for a $250 prize. Additional prizes will be offered by Majerle’s Sports Grill at Chandler Fashion Center.
Participants will need to register by Wednesday, Nov. 11 to reserve a spot. There is a $50 registration fee for each team of two to compete in the bean bag tournament. The tournament begins with pool play and then later continues on to single elimination.
“The cornhole tournament was added to create a new and fun element to the event that attendees of all ages could participate in,” said Jeff Kulaga, executive director of the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership.
The free family-oriented block party takes place from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. and features live entertainment, retail vendors and food trucks. Last year the event attracted more than 18,000 visitors and organizers are expecting more attendees this year.
Live entertainment will be performing at various stages located around the event.
“The event will feature local talent throughout the day including Chandlerbased dance studios and bands,” Kulaga said. “The evening will feature a performance by the Valley’s top ‘90s tribute band, Vanilla Spice, as well as Top
week. Believe it or not, but some offices only operate 8 am - 3 pm. That may not be a problem if you work from home or home school your children but for many others that can become restrictive. Hopefully the phone visit made you feel comfortable as well. Next, you are on to your first visit. Most, if not all orthodontic offices offer a free orthodontic exam. However, not all will give much time to that exam, and some may not take initial records like photos and a panoramic x-ray. This is a very important step and helps the orthodontist and the patient make some decisions on what may be necessary for treatment.
Thomas Chamberlain
40 cover band, The Groove Trio.”
To promote Chandler-based businesses, more than 100 retailers will display a variety of items for purchase. Restaurants will include Serrano’s Mexican Food, Original Chop Shop and Vintage 95 will be in attendance as well as 2 Fat Guys Grilled Cheese and Circle R Farms food trucks. A beer garden will be available for those 21 and older.
For younger children, there will be a Kids Zone full of interactive activities such as a “Jurassic World” Inflatable Playground, Spin Cycle, zipline, swings and more. Ride tickets will be available for purchase.
The rock-themed event will host a variety of talent with “Chandler’s Got Talent” on the Downtown Chandler Stage. Interested contestants need to submit a video online through Vimeo or YouTube. The top performers will be chosen to compete at the event for a $250 grand prize.
“The winner each year is also invited back the following year to be featured as a main performer with a 30-minute set,” Kulaga said. “This competition is open to participants of all ages and all talents including singers, dancers, musicians and more.”
Parking is free at three parking garages on Boston, Buffalo and Chicago streets.
Megan Marples is an intern with the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.
A good orthodontic office will take these records and give you a copy of them to go over at home.
Further, during the exam process, make sure you are looking at the office. Is it clean and tidy? Is it running on schedule while you are there? Does the staff seem happy to be there and are they patient to help and answer questions? When looking at the orthodontist, ask yourself, does he or she seem trustworthy and competent? Is
their demeanor pleasant or abrasive? You will be working with this person closely for the next several months so you want someone who you feel you can communicate with. Are they approachable? Look at the equipment in the office. Is the office using technology that will help make the process more efficient on your time? Will the technology in the office make your treatment more predictable? Look at the treatment plan. Is it something you can understand and conceptually agree with? Lastly, look at the treatment fees. There is some variation with treatment fees but even more so with how those fees are broken up and taken care of. Do they offer “pay in full” discounts, multi-child discounts, and are they contracted with your insurance? Do they offer extended payment arrangements, zero-interest financing or lower down payment arrangements? A good orthodontic office will try to meet your needs in every aspect of the visit.
I hope you find these ideas helpful with your orthodontic search. If you happen to read this article and come to Chamberlain Orthodontics for a consultation, I would love to hear how we live up to the above questions.
Dr. Thomas Chamberlain
Chandler scouts reach Eagle status
Two scouts from Chandler Troop No. 233 were recently awarded the Boy Scouts of America’s Eagle rank—the highest award available.
Cedric Gammon, 15, and Donovan Reeves, 17, received their awards at ceremonies at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Chandler. They join the elite 5 percent of scouts nationwide and nine fellow members of Troop No. 233 in achieving the Eagle rank.
Both young men were required to achieve five prior ranks and needed to earn a minimum of 21 merit badges. Additionally, each scout planned and carried out an Eagle Scout Community Service Project.
Reeves’ project involved identifying a need at the Arizona Animal Welfare League (AAWL), a subsidiary of the ASPCA and Arizona’s oldest and largest no-kill shelter. After meeting with representatives, Reeves set a goal of creating a comfortable and secure environment for Bearded Dragons. He designed, obtained the necessary materials, scheduled a professional welder and Scout volunteers, and—over the course of five months—fabricated and completed the 13-feet by 5-feet by 5-feet steel welded enclosure.
The enclosure consists of three separate steel frames that bolt together, removable powder-coated
trays for the bottoms and casters for easy relocation. His project was completed at no cost to the organization and involved 192 volunteer service hours.
For his project, Gammon installed a fence around the archery range at Camp Tatiyee—a Lions Club camp in Lakeside for the disabled. Gammon learned of this opportunity while performing a Troop No. 233 service project at the camp. After obtaining the required materials, several work sessions were scheduled to set/weld the corner posts, sink the fence posts and string the barbless wire. Ten volunteers were involved in this project and 172 service
hours were contributed. The completed project improves camper safety and prevents nearby cattle and wildlife from wandering into the archery range. In addition to the Eagle Medal, both Eagle Scouts received an American flag that previously flew over the U.S. Capital and letters of commendation from the White House, Sen. John McCain and Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. Troop No. 233 meets Monday nights at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church. It holds monthly campouts, and welcomes all boys who have reached their 11th birthday. Contact the troop at troop233@cox.net.
Breakfast with Santa set for December OLMC schedules open house
Kartwheels for Kids is hosting a Breakfast with Santa and a Donation Drive Event from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at Noah’s Event Venue, 2100 E. Yeager Dr., Chandler. The event will feature Santa, Diamondbacks pitcher and Chandler resident Daniel Hudson, ASU men’s gymnasts and food trucks. There will be “Kartwheel clinics” with balance beams, bars and tumbling instruction.
A special open house will be held for children entering kindergarten or preschool in the fall of 2016, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11.
Prospective students will have the chance to experience a mini day of school during the open house. While the children are having fun in the classroom, parents may attend a presentation to learn more about OLMC Catholic School, meet the administration, find out about the school’s curriculum, discover how a
Clean out the closet and garages for the Stuff the Truck Drive. Small or large items are wanted—the heavier the better—because the nonprofit, Kartwheels, is paid by the pound. All the funds raised will go toward scholarships for children to attend gymnastics programs. For more information, visit www.kartwheelsforkids.org, or email info@kartwheelsforkids.org. Any Package! Happy Thanksgiving!
Catholic education is affordable and have questions answered to help families plan.
All children must be 5 years old by Sept. 1, 2016, to attend the kindergarten open house and 3 by Sept. 1, 2016, to attend the preschool open house.
To reserve a space visit www. olmschool.info, email openhouse@ olmcschool.info or call (480) 967-5567.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church is located at 2117 S. Rural Rd., Tempe.
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1600 W. Chandler Blvd. Suite 230, Chandler, AZ 85224 | Phone: 480-606-8100 | E-mail: info@jackandjillfetalphotos.com
Join us for a Kindergarten and Preschool Open House November 11, 2015 | 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
You and your child are invited to experience St. John Bosco Catholic School. • Participate in a kindergarten or preschool
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Youth
Chandler takes over as state’s No. 1
BY KYLE KERCHEVAL
While the Chandler-Hamilton rivalry is far from its closing sentences, another chapter was completed on Oct. 30 as the Wolves howled back in the final quarter to dethrone the Huskies 27-20 at Chandler High School.
In the first quarter, Chandler opened the scoring on the ground with a Mason Moran 8-yard run and then a T.J. Green 9-yard run on the Wolves’ following drive.
However, Hamilton would respond with a rushing score of its own via senior Rashad Williams (24-153) who cut the deficit to six with a 6-yard run.
In terms of scoring, the second period would only yield the second of Green’s three touchdowns. The junior, who averages over a touchdown and 76.7 yards rushing per game, finished the contest with 63 yards on 13 carries.
In the third quarter, the Huskies and head coach Steve Belles found themselves in a unique situation, trailing 19-6. But the Huskies made adjustments that at the end of the 12 minutes, resulted in 13 unanswered points and a 20-19 lead.
The game’s final quarter would be marked by Chandler wide receiver Taj De Carriere, who at one point in the season quit the team due to frustration surrounding his role
on one of the most talented teams in the nation.
The senior, who had been pushed by coaches and players to rejoin the team, returned for the rivalry matchup and made the biggest play of the game in front of 10,000 fans.
De Carriere, whose playing time was increased somewhat due to ASU commit N’Keal Harry’s absence, would spark a 96yard drive with a 92-yard catch and run to set up the eventual game-winning score.
The Wolves’ defense would make the game’s final big play, knocking away Travis Lockhart’s (11-23-0-142) pass on an attempted fourth-down conversion with just over four minutes remaining.
With the victory, Chandler (9-1) secures the Division I, Section I title as well as the No. 1 seed in the division for the AIA State Football Championship. They hosted No. 16 Boulder Creek on Nov. 6 at 7 pm.
The Huskies also finish the regular season 9-1, but with the No. 3 seed in the State Championship bracket. Hamilton has now lost four out of its last five meetings with Chandler.
Kyle Kercheval is a student at ASU. He can be reached at news@santansun.com.
Kindergarten open house at St. Mary Basha Catholic School
A kindergarten open house will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at St. Mary Basha Catholic School, 200 W. Galveston, Chandler.
For more information, call (480) 9634951 or visit www.stmarybashacatholic. org.
Have breakfast with Santa at BLD
Breakfast with Santa will be held at BLD, at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. The reservation-only event is $12 for children 12 and younger and $18 for adults 13 years old and older.
A limited number of family packages, which includes two adult and two child tickets for $50, will be available. The tickets include a family swag bag full of goodies from Little Duck Organics, Smarty Pants Vitamins, Neat Cheeks and more.
Attendees will enjoy a continental breakfast buffet including French toast, buttermilk pancakes, scrambled eggs,
bacon and fruit. An assortment of hot tea, coffee and hot chocolate will also be served.
Tickets also include a professional photo with Santa, available as a high resolution digital download, from E.L. Hicks Photography.
East Valley Moms Blog will have a craft for the children and giveaways for everyone to win.
Bring a new unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots drive and receive three extra raffle tickets.
To purchase tickets, visit http://bit. ly/1PoDtak and enter code SantaVIP.
Free SAT/ACT practice test at Tutor House
High school juniors and seniors are invited to take a free SAT or ACT practice test Saturday, Nov. 21, at Tutor House Tutoring Services.
Testing is from 9:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a welcome and registration from 9 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. Students should bring a calculator to the session.
Taking the practice test is a way for students to find strengths and weaknesses in a low-pressure environment. Participants will become familiar with the test format, question types, timing and content tested on these college entrance exams. Test results and analysis are given by email. Separately scheduled conferences are available.
This free practice test is offered in addition to Tutor House’s regular SAT and ACT prep programs. Tutor House is a family-owned and -operated learning
center helping students reach their full potential by providing an individualized approach to education. The tutoring process begins with a skills assessment that will identify students’ academic strengths and weaknesses; test results are then reviewed with parents and a program is designed to address the student’s individual needs.
A wide range of one-on-one and small group tutoring for students in grades K-12 is available, including tutoring in reading, math, writing, study skills, algebra, geometry, calculus, chemistry, physics, biology, SAT/ACT prep and more.
Sign up at www.tutorhouseaz.com. For more information, call (480) 857-1222, or email tutoring@tutorhouseaz.com.
Tutor House is located at 1256 W. Chandler Blvd, Suite F.
‘A Season to Shine’ program offered by Dance Connection 2
Dance Connection 2 in Chandler is partnering disciplined dance students and children with cancer or lifethreatening illnesses from HopeKids Foundation for “A Season to Shine.”
The annual program will culminate in a performance at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at the Queen Creek Performing Arts Center, 22149 Ocotillo Rd. DC2 dancers will also perform two more shows at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12.
“This is a great opportunity for the children of HopeKids Foundation, but an equally great experience for our dancers,” said Maryanna Gooch, owner of DC2. “Learning to give back to your community, sharing your gifts and making a positive connection is truly priceless. This is our way of bringing light to the true spirit of Christmas, by providing hope to those in need while creating a special bond between the
HopeKids and company dancers in this unprecedented collaboration. There will not be a dry eye in the house as the children from HopeKids take the stage Friday night.”
This is the third anniversary of the “Season to Shine” Christmas show hosted by DC2 with approximately 24 HopeKids and their siblings in attendance.
On Wednesday, Nov. 11, DC2 will host a “Movin’ and Groovin’” workshop for the Hope Kids and their families to identify the kids who will perform with the dance company in December. DC2’s experienced staff and company dancers will introduce them to an array of dance techniques and provide them the opportunity to express themselves through dance.
“Partnering with Dance Connection 2 on our HopeKids Dance Clinic is a
huge blessing,” said Bridget Asheim, spokeswoman for the foundation. “This is a chance for the kids to forget about the illnesses they are battling and to just have fun.”
A portion of the proceeds from all three performances as well as a host of sponsorships will be donated directly to the HopeKids Foundation. Last year’s benefit show raised more than $6,000 for the HopeKids Foundation.
Tickets to each performance are $15 and are available through the Queen Creek Performing Arts Center.
To purchase tickets, visit www.qcpac.com.
HopeKids Foundation is a nonprofit
Hamilton student council helps students and charities
BY NICOLE CHOKSI
From homecoming to fundraising, Hamilton High School’s student body government helps school officials ensure the school year goes smoothly.
Homecoming might just be a three-day event for the students, but for the members of the student council it is a three-month event, according to Delaney Hayes, student council president.
It starts with a carnival on Thursday, an assembly and football game on Friday and
ends with the dance on Saturday, Hayes said.
This year was the most successful homecoming in 15 years, with about 900 of the roughly 4,000 students attending the dance.
“We made a lot of our money back, which is awesome,” Hayes said.
The way the budget works is the student council makes its money off prom. With that, it pays its dues and funds graduation. The students then use the remaining
balance for homecoming the following year.
“We had no money last year, we actually went into debt,” Hayes said, “The district will give you some money to build your (balance) back up and then you have to pay it back.”
If the council fails to make back the money it spends, it has to raise funds to make up the difference.
Every three years the National Association of Student Councils (NASC) chooses a charity to which the council
donates money. This is the final year for the current charity, The Ronald McDonald House.
Simply put, the student council organizes events for students and hosts charity events. It sounds easier than it is.
“Our goal isn’t to make money,” Hayes said, “It’s to do stuff for students.”
Nicole Choksi is studying sports broadcasting and journalism at ASU. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.
Seventeen Hamilton students are National Merit Scholarship semifinalists
Seventeen Hamilton High School seniors have been named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists, a record for the school and more than any other comprehensive high school in Arizona.
The students are among 16,000 semifinalists nationwide in the 61st annual National Merit Scholarship program competing for 7,400 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $32 million. Finalists will be announced next spring.
In addition to the semifinalists, 21 Hamilton students have been recognized as commended students by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. These students will not be competing for National Merit
Scholarships.
Hamilton High School’s National Merit Scholarship semifinalists are: Sritej Attaluri; Nikhil Bhardwaja; Iris Chang; Devanshi D. Chavda; Michael Chen; Lydia A. Chew; Molly Chou; MacKenna N. Goodrich; Sruthi Jaishankar; Sabrina W. Leung; Ruohan Miao; Trung D. Nguyen; Andrew D. Seo; Chaz M. Simmons; Elliot A. Smith; Matthan T. Sutton and Taylor Swanson.
“Recognition as a National Merit semifinalist reflects these students’ focused commitment to their academic goals, as well as the consistent and ongoing support and encouragement from teachers and staff and truly underscores the commitment to academic achievement
at every level at Hamilton High School,” said Hamilton Principal Ken James. “Having nearly 50 students recognized as both semifinalists and as commended students by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation sends a very strong message about the quality of education at Hamilton High School.”
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation is a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance. Established in 1955, scholarships are underwritten by NMSC and by approximately 440 business organizations and higher education institutions that share the common goal of honoring the nation’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.
Willis jazz band invited to perform at international conference
The Willis Junior High Jazz Band, under the direction of John Studzinski, has been selected to perform at the Jazz Education Network conference in Louisville, Kentucky, at the Galt House Convention Center on Thursday, Jan. 7. Founded in Chicago in 2008, JEN is the largest international Jazz Conference held annually.
Willis Junior High’s jazz band was the only junior high school in the world
selected to perform at this event. The Willis band opens the conference during the first session at 9 a.m. Thursday. They will feature guest artists and soloist, including Bryon Ruth, faculty associate in saxophone at ASU.
This is not the first time the Willis Junior High Jazz Band has made it to an international music conference. In 2009, it was selected and performed at the
Midwest Clinic, an international band and orchestra conference in 2009 in Chicago. As the only junior high band selected for this conference, they featured Michael Kocour, associate professor and the director of jazz studies at ASU, on piano and Dean Sorenson, associate professor and director of jazz studies at the University of Minnesota, on trombone.
Performing in the JEN conference in
January is a tremendous honor for the Chandler Unified School District and the state of Arizona, officials said. The students are intensely focused on teamwork, musicianship and preparation in order to assure another great performance.
Locally, the band will perform at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 5, at the Chandler Center for the Arts. The performance is free and open to the public.
Hamilton High School’s National Merit Scholarship semifinalists are, in the first row, Iris Chang, Molly Chou, Devanshi D. Chavda and Lydia A. Chew. In the second row are Sabrina W. Leung, Sruthi Jaishankar, Nikhil Bhardwaja, Andrew D. Seo. Third row, MacKenna N. Goodrich, Ruohan Miao, Elliot A. Smith and Trung D. Nguyen. In the top row are Chaz M. Simmons, Matthan T. Sutton and Sritej Attaluri. Not pictured are Michael Chen and Taylor Swanson. Submitted photo
Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Chandler City Council
Winter 2015 SPECIAL EVENTS CITY OF CHANDLER
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21
9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | TUMBLEWEED PARK
Calling all dog lovers and owners, come join us for the 8th annual Woofstock. Admission is free, so bring the entire family – adults, kids ... and dogs for a day of tail waggin’ activities, including: Walk of Honor: A Salute to Our Veterans, Kid’s Corner, Pet Costume Parade, Raffle Prizes, Interactive Demonstrations, Tournaments, Caricature Drawings, Pet Psychic, Mini Dog Park, and other pet-friendly vendors. Adoptions, microchips, and other services will be available through Maricopa County Animal Care & Control. Bring your leashed, well-mannered dog out to enjoy a day of fun with other dog lovers and their K-9 friends.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5
p.m. | DOWNTOWN CHANDLER
Celebrate the holiday season with family and friends at the bright and festive Parade of Lights at 7 p.m. and the official lighting of the Tumbleweed Tree to follow! Holiday music, entertainment from community groups, arts & crafts, food & beverage vendors and a special visit from Santa!
New Vistas takes entrepreneurism beyond the lemonade stand
Fifth- and sixth-grade students at New Vistas Center for Education are going into business by taking the virtual market into the job market. A comprehensive business development class began and will continue to the end of the year. The class will immerse students into the real world struggles experienced by entrepreneurs launching competitive, profitable cupcake businesses.
According to Nancy Koehn, a professor of business history at Harvard Business School, “Untold numbers of lemonade stands bear witness to the fact that young people are excited by the idea of making money. In the numerous biographies of entrepreneurs, you see they were all testing the water when they were young. It’s not all nature, however, Educators can help nurture entrepreneurs by giving students a taste of reality, and the earlier the better.”
At New Vistas, students will do market research, perform quantitative and qualitative analysis, apply creative development ideas, invent winning recipes, conduct product cost analyses and learn how to integrate technology on their paths to creating successful businesses.
“It’s interesting how the competitive aspect of running a well-oiled business adds a degree of intensity and urgency that tends to keep students fully engaged. Hurdles that the students are able to overcome, either singularly, or as a team, become a source of pride,” said teacher Stacey Trepanier.
Trepanier and Jean Berlin are teaching their students to strategize like entrepreneurs utilizing interdisciplinary skills. They have to think like project managers and accountants to create the magic triangle of business success which includes quality products developed
with maximum efficiency, resulting in profitability. The students find that beyond the advanced planning and math skills required, the biggest lessons learned are about their own capabilities to problemsolve, handle failure, support fellow teammates and be resilient.
The students’ time management skills become essential to help them keep track of work completion schedules. They quickly figure out that profits will not materialize without accurate math skills. The ability to follow sequenced directions, consider necessary materials needed and the expense of ingredients and labor are all part of the entrepreneur’s journey. The students must
also create spreadsheets for record keeping, to calculate net profit from gross sales and to produce order forms.
“The exercise will demystify the process of starting a business,” Trepanier said. “Our fifth and sixth graders are at a perfect age to learn these lessons. The students are sponges for learning keys to success; they get excited about accomplishment. This was recently reinforced by Inc. Magazine and Harvard Business School when their studies confirmed that students who are exposed to such innovative classrooms are four times more likely as adults to start successful businesses than those who are not.”
Primavera opens reading and math support programs to the public
With AzMerit test results showing many Arizona students falling below grade-level competency, Primavera Learning Centers are taking action with reading and math support programs available for sixth- to 12th-grade students.
The PLC in Chandler is a facility that combines face-to-face classroom teaching methods with online learning activities. In October 2014, the PLC incorporated Scholastic’s Math 180 and Read 180 programs, intervention courses that are designed to help students struggling in these
subjects. These programs are available to any student needing help in reading or math.
Dr. Kevin Thrasher, executive director of the PLC, is excited for the opportunity to help more students become proficient in reading and math, subjects that are crucial for life.
“Both reading and math are basic requirements for functioning in any job and society,” Thrasher said. “Individuals who struggle in the areas will also struggle in life, particularly with regards to the types of jobs they will be able to get. By opening these
programs to the public, we can help students throughout the East Valley close the gap and gain foundational skills to get them back on grade level.”
Jose Pantaleon, 19, has been with the PLC for a year. Pantaleon was able to gain two grade levels in reading comprehension in only six months, compared to Scholastic’s estimation of a full school year.
“I love to hear about my results because it helps me see that I am getting smarter,” Pantaleon said. “When I feel like I’m getting smarter and learning more, it makes me feel
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like I’m getting closer to my goals and it helps me to stay motivated.”
Math 180 and Read 180 program run Monday through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. The PLC is located at 2451 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler.
Primavera Online High School is the leader of online high school in Arizona, serving thousands of sixth- through 12thgrade students each year throughout the state who are looking for an alternative, internet-based approach to traditional school.
New Vistas’ teacher Ruth Beckman named Teacher of the Month
BY JUDY CRESANTA
The elements that drive each of us to make certain choices in life are often a mystery until we take the time to look back by tracing our footsteps through the lens of personal history. Ruth Beckman and I sat down together recently to talk about her journey from early marriage to near emptynester; from being a loving, full-time mom of two boys to being a full-time educator of literally hundreds of children and now “Teacher of the Month.” Beckman’s story is one of inspiration, love and family and best presented in her words:
“When my oldest, Justin, was ready for preschool, my husband Hank and I did what so many parents do: began to research different preschools; analyzing their philosophies, teaching styles and environments. The list was extensive; the visits endless. Nothing met our criteria. For a couple of years I spear headed a play group in our home and had successfully balanced structured play and meaningful lessons with fun crafts. But the most important ingredient I added was love and a sense of family. I knew it could be done.”
“During our visits to various schools, we were surprised by our experiences. Some schools placed us behind sterile two-way windows to observe a class. Smiles were sparse. The children looked stressed. Some schools were unwelcoming to us as parents and our orientation consisted of peeking in on preschool classes that looked more like free-for-alls. This was definitely not what we envisioned. Then one day we walked into New Vistas and were immediately struck by its warmth and joy. The office staff jumped out of their seats to greet us, made us feel like honored guests being welcomed into
their home and took us on a tour. We were home. At last we found family. Are we talking about my child?
“In the right environment children can do amazing things, far beyond what parents think possible. Justin was reading at a third grade level by the time he got to first grade. To our delight he was doing math at a fourth grade level. Jarod, our younger son, experienced the same kind of success.
“I had to learn New Vistas’ secret, so I signed up to be a teacher’s aide and was assigned to the classroom of Karen Bland, a veteran teacher with enormous creativity. Karen made learning so engaging and so fun. She effortlessly incorporated vocabulary and spelling into every lesson. It was sheer magic. Actually it was Karen who inspired me to complete my degree in education at ASU.
“When I finally had my own classroom, it was very important for me to set the tone for the environment for learning. Every child knows that as part of my classroom they are also part of a family for the entire year. And families support each other, love each other, encourage each other when they are discouraged and comfort each other when they are hurting. My goal as a first-grade teacher, then as now, is to nurture each child toward independence by helping them to realize that they can solve problems that hard works is essential to success in every pursuit and that kindness trumps everything.”
Parents are surprised
“Parents are often so surprised by what their children can do. One year I had a child whose parents stated their concern over their daughter’s inordinate difficulty with change. Her fear of change had often derailed her ability to learn for long periods of time. I have a habit of changing children’s
seating arrangements just before winter break each year to encourage new friendships. Rather than forfeit the move for this little girl because of her sensitivities, I included her in the planning of the new location of her seat well before winter break. I asked her who she would like to be seated with at her table of four. To her parent’s surprise, it only took a bit of planning to successfully move her seat after winter break. Such lessons are important in developing emotional maturity in a child. They see they can do things they never dreamed possible.
can be accelerated uniquely to that child’s abilities. It’s a wonderful feature and to my knowledge can only be found at New Vistas.
“First grade is such an important year for children. Every task builds on another. Without the establishments of strong foundations, a child could be lost in future grades. I started employing grouping early on in my teaching career – first in math and then in phonics, spelling and language arts. It’s important for parents to understand that it is the child himself or herself who determines what group they are in at New Vistas and that the groups are quite fluid. We do empirical testing two times each year. This measurement data dictates what grade level textbook the children are using for each subject and that areas may still need work. Many children are at different levels depending on the subject matter. But, because of this unique testing element found only at New Vistas, children can be academically gifted in one area and quite average in another. So the textbooks used
“My personality is one of structure and I value organization, but at the top of my priorities for the classroom is making sure that the environment is loving. For example, I often lunch with individual students throughout the school year. It’s then that I find out if they have a favorite toy, or if they have a passion for animals. Sometimes they share about things they worry about, or what they think is funny. I love my lunches. I have learned to read children from their facial expressions and body language. If a child is zoned out, they probably need a break. It they look stressed, I need to get to the bottom of it. A child’s ability to learn is influenced by so many factors.”
So What’s the Bottom Line?
“The bottom line is that I love my job. I am deeply honored by Ocotillo Living’s selection of me as Teacher of the Month. But who I am today would be more appropriately credited to those who taught me along the way: Karen Bland, Kathy Esposito, Carol Elias and Eleanor Jordan and others. They are the real heroes. Who would have predicted that Hank’s and my decision to send our children to New Vistas 14 years ago would set off a chain of events that shaped my children, shaped my profession and blessed me with life-long friends.”
Ruth Beckman was named Teacher of the Month. Submitted photo
CHANDLER UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
Nov. 11: Veterans Day, no school Nov. 26 and Nov. 27: Thanksgiving holiday, no school
BASHA BOBCATS
Basha raises money for new technology
Basha Elementary School held its first Zoomer Fun Run on Friday, Oct. 30. For two weeks, students sought pledges to raise money for new technology at the school. Pledges totaled $17,185. The school is hoping to purchase mobile computer labs and upgrade technology.
The Fun Run was organized with the help of Boosterthon, an organization that promotes fitness, leadership and character. Students ran up to 35 laps, the equivalent of more than 2 miles, during the Fun Run.
Family Fun Night Nov. 13
Basha Elementary School will hold its annual Basha Family Fun Night from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13.
The event will include food vendors, a karaoke booth, bounce houses, video game trucks and laser tag arena. Student can also win prizes at various gaming booths run by teachers.
This event is for Basha families and teachers and sponsored by PTO.
—Kevin Adey
HALEY TIGERS
Tigers support autism research
On Sunday, Oct. 25, more than 20,000 walkers gathered to raise money for autism research at Tempe Beach Park. Several Haley students and staff members participated in the walk. In addition, students at Haley were given
blue shoe laces to “lace up for autism” and how, with their support, Haley raised over $650 for autism research.
Drama Club
Drama Club is starting Nov. 17, and registration is due by Nov. 10. Interested fourth- and sixth-grade students may sign up online at www.cusd80.com on the Community Education page.
Running Club
Running Club started Nov. 2. More than 158 students ranging from grades kindergarten through sixth are already signed up.
APEX Fun Run
Haley’s only fundraiser took place Friday, Oct. 30. Students have been learning about being resourceful, elevating others, checking their attitudes, diving in, and making a difference. Students received pledges per lap, or a flat donation for their laps run.
—Stephanie Palomarez
CTA INDEPENDENCE
Making strides
Running Club practice started Nov. 3. Students should be dropped off on the west gate no earlier than 7:40 a.m. and they will be released at 8:10 a.m.
Independence run
The Independence Run will take place on Nov. 13. Students are raising donations for academic resources, playground upgrades and new technology. We appreciate our PTO for its efforts in making this an amazing event.
Cereal drive
Student council is hosting a cereal drive Nov. 2, through Nov. 13. If you are able, please send in a box or two of breakfast cereal. All boxes collected will be donated to the Chandler Care Center to help families in need. Thank you for donating to this cause.
Mark Ytour calendar
STEM Club
Our STEM Club began with 90 students this week. Students will conduct hands-on experiments and activities once per week. STEM Club was funded by a grant from the AZ STEM Foundation.
—Heidi Huggins
Nov. 11: No school, Veterans Day Nov. 20: Movie night Nov. 26 and Nov. 27: No school, Thanksgiving holiday
—Wendi Olson
WEINBERG ELEMENTARY
Weinberg celebrated Dads
Friday morning began with “Donuts with Dads.” Our cafeteria was filled with dads and their children munching on donuts and sharing stories. Friday evening we had a DaddyDaughter sock hop. The young ladies were dressed to the nines and got into the swing of things by learning and then performing ‘50s dance moves.
50th day of school
For the 50th day of school, First graders dressed in ‘50s garb—poodle skirts for the ladies, and leather jackets and jeans for the gentlemen.
‘Flat Stanley’ Third grade has created a “Flat Stanley” project where they read the book, created their own “Flat Stanley,” wrote a story about him, and then mailed him off to begin his adventure.
PREVENTIVE WELLNESS
SPAY/NEUTER
DENTISTRY
DIAGNOSTICS
SOFT TISSUE
STUDENT CHRONICLES
Cara Pardini made the dean’s list at Azusa Pacific University in California for the 2015 spring semester.
Julia Prellberg made the dean’s list at Azusa Pacific University in California for the 2015 spring semester.
Isaac Sutton made the dean’s list at Azusa Pacific University in California for the 2015 spring semester.
Kaitlyn Wright made the dean’s list at Azusa Pacific University in California for the 2015 spring semester.
Chae Won Kim enrolled at Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, as a member of the class of 2019.
Kyle Niemtschk served as staff at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado, for the new student orientation. He is studying business administration.
