Jan. 12, 2007

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E-Bytes Contents

Athletic News

Athletics: Upcoming Games

Big Event

Blood Drive Jan. 30

Costa Rica Summer Trip

E-Bytes Reminders

Early Childhood

Grandparents Day

Headmaster's Message

Holiday Gift Drive Thanks

Ident-A-Kid Services

International Students

Latin Activities

Lower Division

Middle Division

Parenting Group

Poll: Good Movie

Poll Results: A Perfect Day

Relay for Life

Senior Retreat

Shorecrest Business Partners

Shorecrest Parent Assn.

Summer Programs

Three Cheers

Upcoming Events

Updating E-mail Addresses

Upper Division

Videos of Shorecrest Events

Upcoming Events

Jan. 12 Friday

• Geography Bee
  Janet Root Theatre 1:00 p.m.

Jan. 15 Monday

• School Closed
  Martin Luther King Day

Jan. 17 Wednesday

• Children's Author Herman Parish visits
  Janet Root Theatre 10:00 a.m.(for K-2) and 1:00 p.m. (for 3-5)
• Athletic Awards Night
  Janet Root Theatre - Swim and Dive 7:00 - Volleyball 8:00 p.m.

Jan. 23 Tuesday

• Ident-A-Kid Service on Campus for EC-12

• "The Magic of Reading" through the eyes of Ben Franklin for Grades 3-6
  Janet Root Theatre 1:00 p.m.

Jan. 24 Wednesday

• Jack Hartmann presents "Hop 2 It Music" for Grades EC-2
  Janet Root Theatre 1:00 p.m.
• Athletic Awards Night - Football, Cheerleading
  Janet Root Theatre 7:00 p.m.

Jan. 26 Friday

• Third Grade Program
  Janet Root Theatre 8:30 a.m.

Jan. 27 Saturday

• SAT

Jan. 30 Tuesday

• Blood Drive on Campus

Jan. 31 Wednesday

• Spirit Day

Feb. 2 Friday

• Grandparents and Special Friends Day

Feb. 5 Monday

• Booster Club Meeting
  Student Activity Center 7:00 p.m.
• "Rainbow Fish" for EC-Grade 2
  Janet Root Theatre 1:00 p.m.

Feb. 7 Tuesday

• New Parents Breakfast
  Student Activity Center 8:00 a.m.

Feb. 8 Thursday

• Shorecrest Parent Association Meeting
  Student Activity Center 8:15 a.m.

Feb. 9 Friday

• Second Grade Program
  Janet Root Theatre 1:00 p.m.

Feb. 10 Saturday

• Upper Division Valentine's Dance

Feb. 11-13 Sun-Tues

• Accreditation Teams Visit for FCIS/SACS/FKC

Feb. 13 Tuesday

• "Great Alphabet Adventure" for Grades EC-2
  Janet Root Theatre 1:00 p.m.

Feb. 15 Thursday

• Heritage Society Recognition Event

Feb. 16 Friday

• Second Trimester Ends
• Middle Division Curriculum Fair

Feb 16-Mar 1

• Exchange students from France at Shorecrest

Feb. 23 Friday

• Big Event

March 30-31

• Relay for Life

SPA Needs You

The Shorecrest Parent Association (SPA) is looking for a few good people.

Have loads of fun and be part of an exciting group of people who give countless hours for the love of our school and children.

There are openings for the 2007-08 year. Don't worry - we have on-the-job training!

Please contact your parent association leaders for more information:

Gayle Horden
Shari Fuss
Jean Johnston
Mary-Ellen Howells
Marcia Johnston

"The greatest good is what we do for others."
Mother Teresa

Spring Parenting Group

Are Power Struggles with Allowances, Video Games and Homework Driving You Mad?

Join our 4-Week Pre-Teen Parent Education Class.

Be prepared to laugh at yourself while learning proven ways to deal with common pre-teen parenting problems. Barbara Rhode and Annette Reiter, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists, combine over 25 years of family therapy experience with practical insight into understanding children's behavior and how parents can positively direct them.

Feb. 7

• Identify the Big Picture of Parenting
• Learn to spot the 4 target goals of pre-teens

Feb. 14

• Build your own parenting strength foundation
• Understand ways they hear praise & mistaken criticism

Feb. 21

• How to help children cooperate
• Discipline that makes sense

Feb. 28

• Begin the process to hand over the reins
• Prepare yourself for the letting go process

We will be meeting in the Administration Building Conference Room Wednesdays in February from 9:00-10:00 a.m.

If you would like any further information, please contact Ashley Lippincott.

Give Blood

The next blood drive is Jan. 30. The area is suffering a blood shortage right now.

Parents - please stop and donate after you drop off your children. Students can donate if they are 16 and have a parent sign a consent form.

Upcoming Games and Meets

Jan. 12 Friday

• Boys MD Soccer (B Team)
  at Out of Door Academy 4:00
• Girls MD Basketball
  at Admiral Farragut 4:30
  GAME CANCELLED
• Boys MD Basketball
  Home vs. St. Paul's 4:30
• Girls Varsity Basketball
  at Admiral Farragut 6:00
• Girls JV Soccer
  Home vs. Academy of Holy Names 6:00
• Boys Varsity Basketball
  Home vs. Admiral Farragut 7:00
• Girls Varsity Soccer
  Home vs. Academy of Holy Names 8:00

Jan. 16 Tuesday

• Girls MD Soccer
  Cambridge School (Tampa) at North Dale Fields 4:00
• Girls MD Basketball
  Home vs. St. Stephen's 4:30
• Boys JV Soccer
  at Lakeland Christian 4:30
• Girls Varsity Basketball
  Home vs. St. Stephen's 5:30
• Boys Varsity Soccer
  Home vs. St. Stephen's 6:00

Jan. 17 Wednesday

• Boys MD Soccer (B Team)
  at Berkeley Prep 4:00
• Girls MD Basketball
  Home vs. Canterbury 4:30
• Boys MD Basketball
  Home vs. Canterbury 5:30
• Boys Varsity Basketball
  Home vs. Canterbury 6:30

Jan. 18 Thursday

• Girls MD Soccer
  at St. Mary's 4:00
• Boys MD Soccer (A Team)
  Home vs. Out of Door Academy 4:00
• Girls MD Basketball
  at Keswick Christian 4:30
• Boys MD Basketball
  at Keswick Christian 5:30
• Girls Varsity Basketball
  Home vs. Lakeside Christian 6:00
• Girls Varsity Soccer
  District Tournament at Indian Rocks Christian
  Semi-finals 7:00

Jan. 19 Friday

• Girls MD Soccer
  Home vs. Tampa Prep 4:00
• Boys MD Soccer (A Team)
  at Canterbury 4:00
• Girls Varsity Basketball
  Home vs. Keswick Christian 6:00
• Boys Varsity Soccer
  Home vs. All Saints 6:00
• Girls Varsity Soccer
  District Tournament at Indian Rocks Christian
  Finals 7:00
• Boys Varsity Basketball
  Home vs. Keswick Christian 7:30

Looking Ahead

Shorecrest Summer Programs 2007

The temperature and humidity have barely dropped, but we're looking forward to the plans for Shorecrest Summer Programs 2007.

Under the leadership of our new Director of Summer Programs, Amber Hutton, Shorecrest will offer many of the annual favorites such as soccer, art, digital photography and adventure camps next summer. In 2007, the expanded program will include some new offerings for all students as well as half-credit courses and review and enrichment courses for students in grades eight and up.

• Camp and Program Descriptions
• Schedules and Other Information

More camps may be added, so keep reading E-Bytes for updates. The Summer Programs 2007 booklet and registration forms will be sent home in January. Please note that some of the camps will be held only if there's a minimum number of registrants and space is limited. We encourage early registration.

We hope having this information early will help you to make summer plans for your family, and we look forward to having your children be a part of Shorecrest Summer Programs 2007.

If you have any questions, please contact Amber Hutton at (727) 409-1668 or summerprograms
@shorecrest.org.

Costa Rica Experience

This summer, an exciting educational opportunity is being offered - a journey to Costa Rica. This trip is open only to current seventh, eighth and ninth grade students and is scheduled for June 2-9. Melida Barbee from "Adventures Under the Sun" experiential education and tourism agency in Costa Rica will lead and organize the trip.

The trip will incorporate a marine ecology perspective led by eighth grade Oceanography teacher Michele D'Ambrosio. Senora Melanie Jarvis, who teaches seventh and eighth grade Spanish, will add her Spanish expertise, and Dr. Hugh Schoolman will provide his experience and knowledge of the country having come to Shorecrest from an American international school in Costa Rica last year.

The cost of the trip will be approximately $1,600, which includes flight, meals, lodging, homestay (staying with a Costa Rican family), and all amenities. The itinerary includes traveling to an active volcano and relaxing in hot springs, zip-lining through the rainforest, genuine homestay and cultural experience, white-water rafting, snorkeling, learning about marine habitats, surfing, and much more.

We are limited in the number of students we can take on this amazing trip, so please register soon to reserve a spot. You do not need to be enrolled in Spanish to attend. Feel free to contact Michele D'Ambrosio, Senora Jarvis, or Dr. Schoolman with any questions.

Relay for Life

Planning Meeting Jan 16

Join us at the next Relay for Life, March 30-31, and help us beat our record-setting rookie year.

With your support, we can have a stellar 2007!

The next planning meeting will be on Tues. Jan. 16 at 7:30 a.m. in the Student Activity Center. Visit us online any time.

Needed: Chairs

The Gone Fishin' Relay for Life team will be renovating these recycled chairs as their "Chairs that Care" fundraiser. The newborn beauties will then be sold before and during the relay and proceeds will benefit the cure.

Please contact Lillian Nelson (lnelson@shorecrest.org or Cindy Williams (cwilliams@shorecrest.org) if you have a gently used, wooden chair that you would like to donate.

Holiday Gift Drive Thanks

The Holiday Gift Drive was a huge success this year. Thank you to all of the families who participated in the event. We have received numerous thank you notes from the children and the Guardian Ad Litem. Below are a just a few of the comments we've received:

"Words in a card don't seem adequate to express my gratitude for your generosity this season. If you could have seen the joy you brought to three teenage girls with your thoughtful gifts, then you would understand...You are an extraordinary school with a big heart!"
- Jules Stewart, Guardian Ad Litem

"Christmas would have been just another day for Julius if not for the gifts from your school. Your families and students made Christmas a happy day for him...."
- Bradley Bole, Guardian Ad Litem

"Thank you so much!! I really like everything! It means a lot to me. It made so happy when I got them. God Bless You..."
- Rachel

"I am grateful that you spent that money getting me presents. I really like the presents.... It makes a difference what you do every year."
- Ashley

"When we delivered the gifts to family #9, I thought their mother's eyes would pop as we carried in box after box of gifts. Finally, she breathed, 'Wow!' and said this would be the best Christmas her children had ever had - and probably ever would have. Family #26 was absolutely thrilled. These families are both going through very hard times, and it would not have been much of a Christmas without you."
- Susan, Guardian Ad Litem

"Family #1 truly appreciated all you did for them. Thank you so much."
- Rosemary Doyle, Guardian Ad Litem

Again, a huge thank you to everyone for making a difference this Holiday Season!

Some responses to last week's poll:

Describe what a perfect day would be for you.

A perfect day would be... me ruling the world of course! But sadly that would be for one day.
- Person

A perfect day would be a day with no test, no school, no homework, no worries... just relaxing.
- Student

Christmas vacation, just friends... need I go on?
- Want a bf blonde

Okay, well, you see a perfect day would start out going to the mall with my friends then at night going out with my boy friend and having spaghetti would be perfect.
- Kookie

Relay for Life! It's so much fun and it's for a great cause.
- Seventh grader

No homework!
- Homework hater

Getting caught up in a wonderful story book.

I would have a spa party with my friends and I would also play computer games, watch TV, read a book, snuggle with my mom - basically what we did on Thanksgiving break.
- Third grader

Sleep.
- Student

My kids getting themselves dressed, a nice run, my portfolio being up a full percent, taking photos of my kids at the banyan tree, dinner at the Old N.E. Tavern and a good night's sleep.
- Dad

If I woke up and there were wild monkeys with sunglasses that were riding hippos in my room.
- Funkymonkey

Watching T.V. the whole day.
- Fifth grader

I would love to go to Disney World/Land. Then I'd head over to the beach. I would have so much fun!
- Kindergartner

Spending the day at Sawgrass Park would be awesome! Just take away everyone else, pack many books, art stuff and pastels, get a lot of batteries and a camera, a laptop, and I'm good to go!
- Dreamer and Harry Potter lover

Waking up to hear the birds chirping and the wonderful aroma of my favorite coffee brewing. Going into my Japanese garden with a waterfall and koi pond, listening to the chimes blowing while I plant springtime tulip bulbs. Looking up to the sky and thanking my higher God for all my blessings.
- Parent

All I want is a room somewhere, far away from the cold night air, with one enormous chair. Lots of chocolate for me to eat, lots of coal making lots of heat.
- Do little

Cooking, playing video games, watching TV, being on the computer, and making bracelets.
- Me

A day with no school!
- Schoolers

A day in the life at Hogwarts. I would get to meet Harry Potter and learn mahgik!
- Harry Potta 4ev

I would wake up, and know that all my loved ones were safe and sound and have a cup of coffee knowing that whatever happened they'd still be there for me!
- Gingerbread man

Um... in Florida, which day isn't a perfect day?
- Florida girl who loves the sun!

A day when Shorecrest stays open 'til 8 p.m. - and sends your kids home fed, with a bath and in their pj's - a mother's dream.
- Shorecrest mom

Going to the movies with my crush, then he and I would go to the beach and just talk. How romantic and perfect would that be?
- I'm a blonde, I can't help it

A day where I got to sleep in as late as I wanted with no school. I would want to be in a performance, and then I would just go home and watch movies!
- Student

Eating Meow Mix and dancing to Cotton Eye Joe. That would be the absolute best day ever. Meow.
- Kitty kat

A perfect day for me would be relaxing on my bed drinking hot cocoa and reading my book. Then when I'm finished with my book I will watch a cartoon without anyone interrupting me. I get breakfast in bed, french toast, eggs, and bacon with a few pancakes on the side. Then I will go to bed at midnight eating watermelon. I love watermelon!
- First grader

No school! I wake up and I have my diploma and degree from college and I'm the owner of a big business and I get to do nothing but sit there and have fun and eat chocolate and scratch my foot...
- Foot

A perfect day would be waking up in the morning... having chocolate chip pancakes... going to the beach with my friends... going to get a massage... then getting a manicure and pedicure (definitely)... then going to a sleepover with my friends and talking about boys all night (it would be the life).
- Sixth grader

School day? Well... dress down, no homework, and recess all day. Not school day? Spend all day with my friends.
- Middle school student - yes, we get recess

On the boat with my friends. It's a sunny day and the water is like glass. We spend the day fishing all while listening to loud music. That night, we would dock the boat and go swimming in the pool and Jacuzzi while cooking the catch of the day on the grill.
- First mate

It would be me meeting all the Hollywood stars!
- Sixth grader

To go to school with the teachers.
- Eighth grade

Oh, a perfect day. Such a day would include long walks on the beach with a handsome fellow and slurping down a virgin pina colada with some close pals while we gaze at the magnificent sunset, rising in the distance.
- FL girl, seventh grader

As I float in the ocean, I hear a sound. It is slowly gaining volume, but it stays at a contemporary level. "Where is the music coming from?" I wonder. Then I recognize that I am listening to the mellow sounds of my new Starbucks cd. It soothes me as I float gracefully to the shore. When I get upon my feet, Justin Timberlake and I walk on the beach with our toes tickling in the sand.
- Seventh grader

A perfect day would mean video games and TV all day.

A day of photography lessons - excellent!

A day in a 24-hour library full of great books like Harry Potter would be terrific! By the way, the seventh title (not book) came out!

Wake up
do yoga
eat an energizing power bar
have a stimulating day at school
do pilates
do homework
do ballet
eat a healthy dinner
go to bed.
- Spiritualist

My perfect day would be to go to school on a Monday and be in science class all day long.
- Eighth grade science lover

To see Big Bad over and over and over and over and over and over and over....
- Eighth student

Horses everywhere.
- Sixth grader

Perfect day - eating marshmallows all day long.
- Person who lives to eat not eats to live

To go to New York and shop! OMG I love shopping - what a perfect day - horray!
- Tenth grader

Just drinking ice tea and sitting on the lawn with Owen, Drew, Ryan, and some ladies!
- Senior, super tea drinker

A perfect day would be at the spa and get a facial, a manicure/pedicure. That would be a perfect day for me.
- Relaxer

I would get up and eat all day!
- Dieting mother

Going to the movies with a guy I wish I was with.
- Blondie

Updating E-mail

If you need to change your e-mail address or would like to add additional e-mail addresses, please send your e-mail addresses to the registrar at jroberge@shorecrest.org. Thanks!

Sign Up for E-Bytes Reminders

If you do not currently receive a weekly e-mail on Fridays notifying you that E-Bytes is updated, please send a request with your name and e-mail address to ebytes@shorecrest.org and we will be happy to add you to the list.

E-Bytes is a collaborative effort of dozens of members of the Shorecrest community.

To submit material to E-Bytes, please send it to Diana Whittle at dwhittle@shorecrest.org and remember to write "For E-Bytes" in the subject line of your message.

• Diana Whittle, Director of Marketing and Communications
• Bob Clingman, Editor

Senior Retreat

Forty-seven members of the Class of 2007 spent Wednesday, January 3 through Friday, January 5 on the annual Senior Retreat in the forests east of Tampa. The Pathfinders Outdoor Educators put together a brand new series of challenges for the Seniors which included an emphasis on outdoor survival skills.

These included orienteering (to find Wednesday evening's dinner and then cook it!), building fires without using matches, construction of overnight shelters and the opportunity to sleep in them Thursday evening. Outdoor survival skills have a value in their own right, but they also encourage resourcefulness and independence in the face of unfamiliar circumstances, useful attitudes for young people getting ready to head off to college in the fall.

The Seniors also engaged in a variety of other activities. Some of these were intended to increase their awareness of diversity and social justice. The Seniors also canoed a section of the Alafia River which is new to Shorecrest classes and had the opportunity to take a "polar bear" dip in the 72 degree waters of one of the springs which feed the Alafia.

The Seniors tested themselves against the high ropes course - with the first group to do so learning how to tie the various safety knots used on the course. Bonfires on Wednesday and Thursday nights allowed time to spend together as a class - with plenty of music and small talk. Wrinkled, weary but happy, they returned to Shorecrest Friday afternoon.

Early Childhood

Fire Fighting Friends

The Alpha students enjoyed a trip to the St. Petersburg Fire Station this week. They toured the station, looked at and sat in the trucks, and learned about the fire fighters' jobs. One important experience was watching a firefighter put on his protective clothing.

Often children are frightened when confronted by someone wearing this gear. Our students will now be familiar with the sight and react safely in an emergency.

How Do Florida Children Learn About Winter?

Making snow and cold relevant to children who live in Florida can be challenging but our Early Childhood teachers are stretching their imaginations and those of their students to do so successfully. Using polar bears and penguins in Insta-Snow has been a favorite center for the JK students.

Adding water to this "magic" powder produces a snow-like material and teaches a science lesson about matter while providing great fun. Reading The Mitten by Jan Brett leads to activities about pairs and matching. Using these and other wonderful stories, interesting tactile materials, manipulatives, and arts and crafts projects is helping our children develop a better understanding of a season they experience only to a limited degree.

Through these and numerous other activities, the children are learning about winter and counting, matching, fine motor skills, language development and science concepts are being reinforced.

Lower Division

Dear Families,

Welcome back! As we left for winter break, we took a candid shot of all the Lower Division children at the flagpole. I told them it would help me not to miss seeing them in person as much! We left with warm feelings from our Lower Division sing-along and our various projects to do with the holidays and peace.

(larger photo)

My heart is full as the children returned excited to see their teachers and classmates. Much was celebrated at the flagpole from a selfless birthday wish of a second grader that enabled a donation to the Special Olympics to recognizing our classroom geography bee winners and their desire to be global citizens. We look forward to next week and the joy of having author Herman Parish in our midst.

Above all, I am grateful for each and every one of you and wish you the happiest of New Years!

Best,
Penny

What Does Peace Feel Like?

"How interesting! The word PEACE is beautiful in all languages." So begins the book What Does Peace Feel Like? by V. Radunsky and children from around the world. After hearing this wonderful story, second grade students took the time to ponder PEACE using their five senses just like in the book.

The poems created from their reflections are great. You can view further examples of their poetry in the Lower Division office.

Rules of Life

Students have been discussing the "rules of life" in guidance. There aren't many instances in which we are truly working alone; usually we are part of a group. Students readily explored this concept with examples ranging from baseball teams to social studies homework review. We all acknowledged that the superstar moves were fun and the glory was great for the moment, but also realized that those fancy moves don't always provide the most benefit for the entire team.

As always in guidance, we had a challenge - The Magic Carpet. Their task was to move the carpet from point A to point B without a single team member stepping off the carpet (and into the lava!). Many ideas developed including the "taco technique" in this photo.

Citizen of the Month

Congratulations to our December citizens of the month for the 2006-07 school year:

• First Grade - Laszlo L.
• Second Grade - Julie D.
• Third Grade - Haley B.
• Fourth Grade - Raquel G.

These students exemplify the life skills we teach and practice here at Shorecrest. Thank you, parents, for instilling these wonderful values in your children. You would be pleased to know that they are modeling what you taught them. Thank you for being partners with us in this most important endeavor.

Three Cheers for Olivia R.!

Second grader Olivia R. celebrated her birthday by remembering others. Instead of requesting gifts, Olivia decided to ask for donations for the Special Olympics. Because of her birthday wish, donations totaled $515. She received a special note of thanks saying, "If we could only have all young people think and act as you have done, the world would be a much better place. Thank you, Olivia!

New Students

Welcome to the two students who have entered the Lower Division this month.

Sionna M. from Clearwater, Florida (grade 4, Mrs. Burton's class)

Taylor K. from St. Augustine, Florida (grade 1, Mrs. Whitecage's class)

Author to Visit

In preparation for this year's author visit by Herman Parish on Wednesday, January 17, the students in Mrs. Whitecage's class enjoyed their library lesson hearing about Amelia Bedelia's adventures.

She is the famous book character who is both a lovable, and literal-minded housekeeper. The children laughed along with Mrs. Smay and are excited about the arrival of our visitor.

Pinellas Heritage

The kindergarten classes learned about life in Pinellas County about 100 years ago at Heritage Village in Largo.

Mrs. Kawalec's Kindergarten Class at Heritage Village (larger picture)

International Students

The Upper and Middle Divisions hosted 45 international students Thursday afternoon. The students, most of them from Brazil and South Korea, are attending the ELS (English Language School) at Eckerd College during the month of January. As part of their experience, they wanted to visit an American school.

They joined our Middle Division students for the "Four Score and Seven" program in the theatre and sat in on classes in grades 5-8. They also enjoyed a special visit to the Student Center to see the Middle Division students' science fair projects.

One of the visitors was Matheus Rocha, whose cousins Ana Gabriela and Bruno Emerson attend Shorecrest! All our visitors enjoyed their time at Shorecrest and were able to practice their developing English skills. It was a great "global" experience for our visitors and for our Shorecrest students!

Middle Division

Science Fair

The Middle Division Science Fair projects are on display in the Student Activity Center. Students from all four grade levels in the Middle Division will have their boards on display.

Please browse through the aisles on Friday, Jan. 12 to see the culmination of the semester-long project that the students worked so hard on.

The projects were judged on Wednesday evening by Shorecrest faculty members who teach science in the Upper and Lower Divisions. The awards assembly follows the Geography Bee on Jan. 12.

• 1st Place: Lauren O.: Dissolved Oxygen in Tampa Bay
• 2nd Place: Tanja G.: Does Temperature Affect the Lifetime of Batteries?
• 3rd Place: Danny T.: Got Gas?
• 4th Place: Sidney W.: The Effect of Color on Memory of Items in a List
• 5th Place: Jack S.: Speeds and Skids

Honorable Mention

• Stephanie V.: What is the Hottest Color?
• Patrick A.: Pond Sediment = Tasty Tomatoes – Pollution
• Hayden G.: It’s Rock Solid
• Rebecca K.: Seeing the Rainbow
• Kelsey C.: The Effects of Water Exchange on Water Quality
• Garrett S.: Fore! Battle of the Golf Ball Brands

• Hannah S.: Straining to be Clean
• Brittany V.: Frozen in Time
• Jennifer V.: Racing Against the Clock?

• Jared E.: Colorfully Cool
• Billy C.: Can Fish Learn?
• Thomas (TJ) P.: Friction and Distance: Are They Related?
• Bak M.: Does the Form of the Fruit Juice Affect the Vitamin C Content?
• Nick L.: Battle of the Bandages
• KC F.: N2O Steroids for Cars
• Molly N.: Got Charge?
• Cissy R.: Hot Pots
• Joelle J.: Tasty Deception
• Ilsa L.: What's Up With the Tides and the Moon?

Fifth Grade Parent Round Table

Fifth grade parents are invited to a special round table event by the fifth grade teaching team on Monday, January 29 at 7:00 p.m. The event is set to occur in the Shorecrest Band room. The event will offer parents of fifth graders an opportunity to talk with teachers about such issues as study skills, organization, homework preparation, and test-taking skills. The goal is to ensure that we as teachers and parents are working together during this critical transitional year in our fifth graders' lives. We look forward to seeing many of you on the 29th!

Garrett Staples

Gone but not forgotten... as a butterfly flew by today I remember you, Garrett.

Our dear friend Garrett Staples was remembered yesterday by a moment of silence in the Middle School. Friends and teachers gathered by Garrett's Garden to remember his brave and courageous life.

We shared our fondest memories of him and how we miss his smile. The Gone Fishin' Team will be walking and raising money for the cure for cancer during the Relay For Life that will be held at Shorecrest on March 30-31, 2007.

Friday, February 2

Grandparents and Special Friends Day

The responses to the invitations have been terrific from those Grandparents and Special Friends who will be guests of our students on Friday, February 2. This year will be the 23rd occasion to recognize this special group of people who are so important in the lives of our students. Please remind those who will be attending to RSVP. Although the RSVP date has passed, we still want to know who will be attending as a Grandparent or special friend of your student. RSVP information can be sent to the Office of Advancement by email to: mtomasino@shorecrest.org, or by fax to (727) 521-1452 or call us at (727) 456-7516.

As always we appreciate our families honoring the tradition of leaving the theatre seating for Grandparents and Special Friends. With the limited number of seats in the theatre, it is impossible for us to accommodate parents and guests. There are very few times that we ask parents not to attend a school function, but this is one of those times, which will help us accommodate as many guests as possible on this special day.

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Grandparents Day 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002

Calling for Polaroid Cameras and Photographers!

By overwhelming request, we will be taking Polaroid photos of our students with their grandparents or special friends to give away as a keepsake of this special day. This was a popular memento in previous years. If you have a Polaroid camera that you would consider loaning for this day and/or if you want to volunteer as a photographer to help with the photos, please contact Kris Bodner or Christi Mills.

Latin Activities

Mini Forum

This past Saturday, January 6, three students competed in the annual Mini Forum held this year at Pine View School in Sarasota.

Teagan C. (grade seven), Matt I. (grade eight), and Stephanie G. (pictured, grade nine) all placed in their competitions. Teagan earned fourth place in Latin Derivatives and sixth place in Mythology - Level 1. Matt took second place in History and third place in Mythology, Level 2, and Stephanie took first place in Latin Derivatives and fourth place in Latin Mottoes - Level II.

Teagan and Matt placed Second in the Certamen competition, Level I. This is a paneled question/answer contest modeled after the Jeopardy TV show.

National Mythology Exam

The National Mythology Exam will be offered on campus in late February. The students take a 50 question exam, and answer sheets are submitted to the national office of the American Classical League. Once the students are registered, they are sent a list of resources and topics for the exam, and we work together to prepare. The registration fee is $3, and the deadline for registration is January 12. Prizes are awarded nationwide, and students are honored here at the end of the year honors assemblies.

National Latin Exam

The National Latin Exam is a required assessment here at Shorecrest. The test results do not affect the students' averages, but scores promote eligibility for awards at the state and national levels. Students' scores are compared only to others at their same level. The exam will be given at school on March 5. This is required because we use the performance results to monitor our curriculum and position nationally. Please do not schedule any outside appointments the morning of March 5.

Forum

The Regional Latin Forum is set for Saturday, February 10 at Tampa Prep. Students from Pinellas, Manatee, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties compete in the same areas that were offered at the Mini-Forum. There are additional fields of Latin poetry and speeches, and art projects. Approximately 600 students attend each year, so spots are given out on a first come, first served basis. The registration fee is $6, and the deadline is January 22.

Latin T-shirts

Team T-Shirts are on sale now for $8. These Latin t-shirts sport a slogan created by our own Karenna K. (grade 7). We wear these shirts at all competitions and at Latin lunches on campus.

These are exciting times with many opportunities for your students to learn and to excel. Please let Mrs. Grau or Ms. Robison know if you have any questions.

Upper Division

Welcome, New Students

Ninth graders Dylan and Parker W. come to us from Greer, South Carolina. Parker and Dylan are former Shorecrest students who are moving back after several years. Welcome back!

Tenth grader Jack S. is from Springlake, Michigan.

Pluto (the Former Planet)

Students in Mr. Napodano's honors and regular Conceptual Physics classes went on a Web search this week to discover:

1. Why is Pluto no longer a planet?
2. What are the new definitions of a planet?
3. What does NASA's new mission to Pluto hope to discover?

1. How are we getting there?
2. What else is out there in the outer Solar System?

Students then shared their findings as teams through Powerpoint Presentations.

Prom Fashions

Shorecrest MyProm Fashion Show will be held Saturday, Feb. 3, at 7:00 p.m. in the Crisp Gym. Tickets are $5. Fashions from Dillard's will be modeled by the Shorecrest Senior Class. The show will be produced by the Junior Class and is sponsored by Dillard's and by the Shorecrest Parent Association. (image)

Shorecrest Event Videography by Sunrise Productions

Frank Gibson of Sunrise Productions has been producing the Shorecrest event DVDs this school year. To date, he has filmed Poetry in the Park, Fall Arts Showcase, and the Winter Band Concert. Many families have enjoyed the convenience of not having to bring their camera equipment to events and simply being able to enjoy the performances.

As long as families continue to order DVDs, Shorecrest will continue to provide this service. The DVDs are $20 plus $3 for shipping and handling costs.

Order forms are sent home the week prior to each event and can also be downloaded from the list below. Don't forget to place your orders and take advantage of this convenient service!

Completed Events

• Poetry in the Park (EC-grade 4)
  Thurs., Oct. 19
• Fall Arts Showcase
  Sat., Nov. 18
• Winter Band Concert
  Tues., Dec. 5
• "Big Bad": Sixth and Seventh Grade Drama Production
  Tues., Dec. 12
• Early Childhood Holiday Sing
  Wed., Dec. 20

Upcoming Events

• Third Grade Program
  Fri., Jan. 26
• Grandparents Day
  Fri., Feb. 2
• Second Grade Program
  Fri., Feb. 9
• Eighth Grade Drama Production
  Wed., Feb. 28
• Fourth Grade Program
  Thurs., Mar. 8
• First Grade Program
  Fri., Mar. 30
• Spring Musical, 42nd Street
  Thurs.-Sat., April 26-28
• Alpha Parent Day
  Thurs., May 3
• Kindergarten Program
  Fri., May 11
• 5th Grade Drama Production
  Thurs., May 17
• Baccalaureate / Commencement
  Sun., May 20 / Sat., May 26

Shorecrest Business Partners

Message from Mr. Murphy

A Case for a Resolution

What is the difference between a person who makes a resolution and keeps it and the person who has the good intention but does not follow through? How do we help people set goals and follow through with those goals? There are disciplined individuals who can make a resolution or set a goal and stick to it. For most of us, having a great coach, mentor or supervisor is necessary to meet or exceed a plan. Other people thrive from working with a team. Regardless of the conditions, we will never be successful or great unless we make a commitment and find the support to help us achieve the goal.

I tend not to believe in universal statements like the one I've just made. There is almost always an exception to the rule. But I am willing to stick my neck out and say that authentic success requires a commitment to a goal or the resolve to accomplish an important task. So, what's the point?

Most people at Shorecrest know I am a big believer in the concepts found in Jim Collins' book, Good to Great. I believe that good is the antidote to great. I also believe we serve our children, our colleagues and our friends when we help them develop self-discipline. Collins talks about the importance of employing people who are willing to go to extreme lengths to fulfill their responsibilities while not becoming tyrannical disciplinarians. I am not sure how this can be accomplished unless a person is in the habit of setting goals and finding methods to accomplish them.

I want the students and employees at Shorecrest to have New Year's Resolutions. I want them to have their hearts and minds focused on something special they want to accomplish. I want them to have a plan and the discipline to work until they succeed. If you have not sat down with your child(ren) to discuss a resolution for this year, it is never too late. I do not doubt for a minute that some of you would rather have surgery than another discussion with your child about a goal. Yet, I encourage you to give it a try.

I'm going to make my resolution tonight. I already know what it is, but I am going to get a friend to help me accomplish the goal. Once he agrees, I will have my plan and I will get started. Feel free to ask me about my resolution when you see me. Expect me to ask you about yours.

I wish you and your children a great New Year.

Cheers!
Mike Murphy

Ident-A-Kid Coming to Shorecrest

On Tuesday, January 23, Ident-A-Kid Services' representatives will be on campus to prepare ID cards for students in all divisions (EC through UD). Forms and flyers are being mailed home.

Founded in 1986, Ident-A-Kid Services of America, Inc., is the pioneer in child identification. Through its 200-plus programs, Ident-A-Kid annually provides over three million ID cards to parents at schools and other locations throughout the United States.

The Ident-A-Kid card is a driver's license-like card that contains a child's photograph, fingerprint and description. Parents keep the card with them at all times and, in an emergency, can provide law enforcement with it for immediate response.

Parent volunteers are needed to help out on January 23. If interested, please contact Jean Johnston.

The Big Event

Shorecrest Annual Big Event Fashion Show

• Hosted by: Brent & Debbie Sembler
• Clothing by: Saks Fifth Avenue
• Catering Sponsored by: Floors Inc.
• Time: Friday, January 26, 7:00 p.m.

Wondering what to wear to this year's "Denim & Diamond" Big Event? Join us for an evening of informal modeling of "extraordinary" outfits for both men and women exclusively from Saks Fifth Avenue.

Mark your calendar for Friday, January 26, 2007, at 7:00 p.m. Tickets go on sale January 4, 2007, at www.shorecrestbigevent.com - $25 per person or $45 per couple.

We encourage you to bring along the man in your life for an evening of music, food, fun and wine.

*All proceeds will go to Shorecrest Preparatory School to support classroom enhancements, endowment and the upcoming capital campaign.

Seeking Incredible Wines for the Auction!

Does your house have a wine cellar which looks a bit sparse? Not for long! Imagine fine wines ready for drinking, some for aging, and a few for collecting.

The auction committee is currently seeking incredible wines for the 2007 annual Denim & Diamonds Big Event Fundraiser. If you have an incredible bottle of wine that you would like to donate to our Shorecrest Wine Cellar package, please contact our Acquisitions Chair, Lynn Cravey, lynn.cravey@certegy.com.

The Big Event 2007 Committee Seeking Vacation Homes

The Big Event Office is currently seeking vacation homes and/or exciting destinations for the 2007 annual Denim & Diamonds Big Event Fundraiser. If you have a vacation home or timeshare, or know of someone willing to donate a week for a great cause, please contact Lynn Cravey or the Big Event Office:

• Acquisitions Chair, Lynn Cravey, lynn.cravey@certegy.com
• Big Event Office, big.event@shorecrest.org
• Chair, Karen Crowley, kcrowley@aol.com
• Chair, Karen Lucas, klucas@aol.com

Please visit our online auction site at www.shorecrestbigevent.com to preview this year's auction items. Pre bidding on EXCLUSIVE items begins January 21, 2007, and runs through January 28, 2007... ONE WEEK ONLY!

Seeking an Entertainment Underwriter

The Big Event Office is currently seeking an Entertainment Underwriter for the 2007 annual Denim & Diamonds fundraiser. If interested, please contact the Big Event office:

• E-mail, big.event@shorecrest.org
• Chair, Karen Crowley (580-8082), kcrowley@shorecrest.org
• Chair, Karen Lucas (580-8042), klucas@shorecrest.org

In addition, you can visit our online auction site and see our Corporate Sponsorship Menu by going to www.shorecrestbigevent.com. Sign in and click on the Corporate Underwriting Opportunities link underneath the Shorecrest logo.

• Big Event Office, big.event@shorecrest.org
• Chair, Karen Crowley (580-8082), kcrowley@shorecrest.org
• Chair, Karen Lucas (580-8042), klucas@shorecrest.org

Three Cheers

Handmade Afghans Bring Warmth and Comfort

Opportunities to be of service come to us in the most unexpected ways.

Recently, Upper Division faculty member and guidance counselor Dr. Pam Hamilton came to us with a request for help. Her mom, Shirley Moody, had crocheted 50 afghans last year and wanted our help in finding recipients for her warm generosity.

Shorecrest reached out to PARC (Pinellas Association for Retarded Citizens) and to The Hospice of the Pinellas Suncoast and arranged for delivery of the afghans just before our winter break. Mrs. Moody and her husband, Keith, and Dr. Hamilton were accompanied by Upper Division students Eby O. and Josh W., who presented the afghans to residents of the Burkett Villa adult day-care facility at PARC and to Hospice residents at the Woodside facility.

At The Hospice, the staff organized a Christmas party with punch and cookies, and the residents were asked to choose their favorite afghan.

"The residents were most appreciative and my mom was very touched," Dr. Hamilton said. "The director said that as a part of the end-of-life process, staff likes to give a blanket to each resident and when the person passes away, they present the blanket to the family as a special memento of their last days," she continued. "So they were very grateful to have something handmade and unique," she added.

David Hyink, Advanced Placement Biology Question Leader

Mr. David Hyink, Shorecrest UD Biology teacher and Chair of the Science department, has been appointed to the distinct position of Question Leader for Educational Testing Services (ETS) that oversees the grading process for the College Board. Having been a Reader for the Advanced Placement Biology Exams for several years, then appointed as Table Leader, Mr. Hyink will now serve as one of only four question leaders for the Advanced Placement Biology exams. Only two secondary school teachers can serve as question leaders, along with two post-secondary professors, which makes his appointment a distinctive, international honor since the Advanced Placement Exams are administered not only in the United States, but worldwide.

Question leaders and table leaders develop the rubric which will be used to train the rest of the 500 readers for AP biology exams. Last year there were over 108,000 AP Biology exams administered. In order to insure a balanced approach to grading exams, ETS and the College Board ensure that half the readers are university teachers and half are high school AP teachers.

When the reading is completed, question leaders write a report describing their particular essay question with regards to student performance, the nationwide mean score, some common student misconceptions, etc. These reports can be used by AP teachers to help prepare their students for future tests.

Shorecrest congratulates Mr. David Hyink and celebrates his appointment!

New Orleans - Sixteen Months After Hurricane Katrina

Kindergarten teacher Joanne Minke and her husband, Terry, spent nine days over winter break in New Orleans helping their cousins who are struggling to recover from Hurricane Katrina. While the Minkes were able to assist their family with some of the demolition, clean up, and repairs, they were dismayed by the sheer magnitude of the destruction in the neighborhoods.

House after house, street after street, mile after mile of ruined homes - many gutted and deserted, many abandoned, many bulldozed and only a few rehabbed and occupied. In their cousins' middle class Lakeview community, 23,000 people lived before Katrina. Now 1000 people reside there, many living in trailers as they slowly rebuild their homes single-handed after work.

Yes, the French Quarter, Garden District, Metaire, and the Super Dome are up and running. Many restaurants have reopened and serve delicious New Orleans food. Tourists are welcomed and needed to help rebuild the economy. But the neighborhoods are like a ghost town - few people and vehicles and no grocery stores. No doctors. No pharmacies. No squirrels. No birds. The city is broke and offers few services. Basically, the residents are on their own to rebuild.

Citizens have formed a grassroots campaign to set up a resource center to enable homeowners to assist each other to recover and rebuild. This nonprofit organization, Beacon House of Hope, has been awarded a grant from the United Way to purchase lawn equipment and tools. Additional volunteers and support are needed to help the New Orleans families in the slow recovery process as they struggle to answer the question: Can we come back and how can we rebuild?

Athletic News

Complete Athletic Schedules

Upcoming Games and Meets

Booster Club Factoid Did you know that Booster Club dues and proceeds pay for all officials for home games and all trophies, plaques medals and academic athlete certificates?

It's Soccer & Basketball District Tournament Time

The Girls Varsity Soccer team is the #1 seed in their District Tournament being held at Indian Rocks Christian next week.Their first game will be in the Semi-finals on Thursday evening at 7:00 p.m. They will play the winner of the Calvary Christian and Keswick Christian game being held on Tuesday night.

The Boys Varsity Soccer tournament will be held the week of Jan. 22 at Canterbury. Dates and times will be available next week.

The Girls Varsity Basketball tournament will be held at Northside Christian on Jan. 30, Feb. 1, and Feb. 3.

The Boys Varsity Basketball tournament will be held at Keswick Christian on Feb. 6, Feb. 9, and Feb. 10.

Girls Varsity Soccer

After being on break for a few weeks, the Chargers came back to a strong opponent in St. Pete Catholic on Friday, Jan. 5. The Chargers lost 1-0.

On Monday, Jan. 8, the Chargers traveled to Tampa Catholic and tied 2-2. Jennifer C. and Erin M. scored the Chargers two goals. The Chargers overall record now stands at 10-3-2.

Boys Varsity Soccer

The Boys Varsity Soccer team played Keswick Christian on Monday, Jan. 8, and won 4-1. Goals were scored by Ben S. (3) and Phil V.

On Tuesday, Jan. 9, the Chargers traveled to Canterbury and won 5-0. Goals were scored by Jake C. (2), Ben S., Parker W. and Alistair F.

Girls Varsity Basketball

The Girls Varsity Basketball team traveled to Northside Christian on Monday, Jan. 8, and lost by the score of 55-24. High scorers for the Chargers were Jasmine C. with 10 points and Natalie S. with 4 points.

On Tuesday, Jan. 9, the Chargers faced Indian Rocks Christian at home and lost 64-29. Sandy L. led the team with 8 points followed by Jasmine C. with 6 points.

Boys Varsity Basketball

The Chargers played Indian Rocks Christian at home on Tuesday evening, Jan 9 and lost by the score of 61-26. Carter S. led the team with 10 points followed by Brian M. with 6 points.

Boys Varsity Basketball Holiday Tournament Results

The Boys Varsity Basketball team competed in the Keswick Holiday tournament during the last week of December. Their first game of the tournament was against Upperroom Christian. The Chargers played a good game but lost by the score of 49-43.

Brian M. was the high scorer with 16 points. Pete C. added another 9 points to the effort. This loss placed them in the consolation bracket. Their next game was against St. Clair and they lost 56-33. Josh W. and Pete C. were high scorers with 10 points. In their final game of the tourney, the Chargers faced Mt. Dora and lost 61-41. Pete C. was high scorer with 15 points.

Girls JV Soccer

The JV Girls Soccer team traveled to St. Pete Catholic on Friday, Jan. 5, and lost 5-1. The girls came out strong and took an early 1-0 lead on a goal by Natalie N. However, they lost a little steam on their second day back from winter break and gave up four second half goals. The girls played well despite the final score.

photos courtesy of Sun Haven Photography

On Monday, Jan. 8, The JV Girls Soccer team traveled to Tampa Catholic and came away with a 1-1 tie. The girls played well and dominated the game with the Tampa Catholic keeper making many saves. The Shorecrest goal was scored by Claire L.

On Tuesday, Jan. 9, the JV Girls Soccer team hosted Berean Academy and won 5-1. The girls played a great all-around game with goals being scored by Tori D. (2), Natalie N., Shannon M., and Nicole P. Rachel B. and Madi K. both played well in goal.

Boys JV Soccer

On Friday, Jan. 5, the Chargers beat Bradenton St. Stephen's 8-0 in a game shortened by about five minutes by the mercy rule. Colin D., Rob P. and Matt S. scored two goals each and Evan J. and Will S. one each.

On Monday, Jan 8, the JV boys won 7-0 at Keswick Christian. Rob P. and Matt S. scored two more goals each and Jordan C., Phil M. and Ryan D. scored one each. The Boys JV overall record is now 7-3. They have won three straight and five of their last six games!

Girls Middle Division Soccer

The Girls Middle Division Soccer team lost 3-0 to St. Paul's on Tuesday, Jan. 9. They got off to a slow start and fell behind 3-0. After the half, they got things together and played hard and held St. Paul's scoreless.

photo courtesy of Sun Haven Photography

Boys Middle Division Soccer

The Middle Division Boys Soccer B team played a tight game and came from behind to tie Berkeley Prep last Friday, Jan. 5. Garrett S. assisted a goal scored by Christian M.

The Middle Division B team lost a close game to Keswick Christian on Monday, Jan. 8, by a score of 1-0. The B team has two games left on their schedule. They will play Out of Door Academy this Friday and Berkeley Prep next Wednesday.

Girls Middle Division Basketball

On Monday, Jan. 8, the Chargers traveled to Northside Christian and lost 24-8. Carola R., Ann Marie F., Jackie R., and Sara W. scored two points each. The team's overall record now stands at 3-7.

Swimming Recognition

All County Boys Swimming Honorable Mention:

• Josh G. (50 free)
• Henry S. (100 breast)
• Jack S. (diving)

Varsity Softball and Baseball Teams Begin Practice

The Varsity Softball team began practice last Monday, Jan. 8.

The Varsity Baseball team will begin practice on Monday, Jan. 15 at 3:00 p.m.

Golf & Cross Country Awards

The following awards were given out Wednesday evening, Jan. 10, in the Janet Root Theatre for the Varsity and Middle Division Golf teams and the Varsity and JV Cross Country teams. Congratulations to these hard-working athletes!

Varsity Golf

• Boys Most Valuable - MJ M.
• Boys Most Improved - Michael H.
• Boys Coaches Award - Jack M.

Middle Division Golf

• Boys Most Valuable - Quinn E.
• Boys Most Improved - Patrick A.
• Boys Coaches Award - Charlie D.

Varsity Cross Country

• Boys Most Valuable - Stephen S.
• Boys Most Improved - Jordan S.
• Boys Coaches Award - Wyatt K.
• Girls Most Valuable - Pavandeep B.
• Girls Most Improved - Carley S.
• Girls Coaches Award - Casey E.

JV Cross Country

• Boys Most Valuable - Rheese W.
• Boys Most Improved - Ryan D.
• Boys Coaches Award - Patrick M.
• Girls Most Valuable - Shannon M.
• Girls Most Improved - Jessica M.
• Girls Coaches Award - Kelli A.

Upcoming Fall Sports Awards Nights

Wednesday, January 17 - Swimming & Diving at 7:00 p.m., Volleyball at 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, January 24 - Football & Cheerleading at 7:00 p.m.

All sports awards nights are in the Janet Root Theatre.

Ordering Athletic Photos

Sun Haven Photography

Order your athletic photos from Sun Haven Photography and type in Shorecrest for Event Name.

Northeast Photography

Order your athletic team and individual pictures from Northeast Photography.

• Go to: Collages.net
• Username for all Basketball teams: basketball06
• Username for all Soccer teams: soccer06
• Password for all sports: 7348

Videos of Athletic Events

Every Boys Varsity Football game is available, each with highlights included. The 2006 Season's Highlights is now available for pre-order.

The first six Boys Varsity Basketball games have all been produced as well. They are available for $20 each.

Also to be videotaped: the Girls Basketball games, and Girls and Boys Soccer and the Varsity Boys Baseball games this year too.

Video productions are available by ordering directly from www.Stefio.TV or by calling 528-3180.

Request for Athletic Photos

Just a reminder that E-Bytes is always looking for great photos of Shorecrest students' athletic events. We prefer to receive them in digital format. Please e-mail the original, unedited file to clingman@shorecrest.org.