February 11, 2010February 11-18, 2010
February
| 11 |
Middle School Parent Conference, no middle school |
| 12 |
Middle School Parent Conference, no middle school |
| 12 |
John Craig & the Upper School Jazz Band concert in Cabell Theater, 8:00pm with $5 admission |
| 15 |
President's Day observed, no school |
| 16 |
6th grade science teacher, Larry Hurst. presents Earth Becomes Us, at 7:00pm in Cabell Theater as part of the Esther Dayman Strong lecture series |
| 19 |
Re-enrollment contracts due in Toad Hall today |
| 19 |
Viewfinder Global Film Series, 6:30pm in Humanities Bldg. |
March
| 9 |
Martinique trip leaves |
| 10 |
Costa Rica trip leaves |
| 10 |
Middle School Service |
| 13 |
Gambol Night at the Nines |
| 16-19 |
Middle School Breakaway |
| 22-26 |
Spring Break, no school |
| 22 |
Costa Rica trip returns |
| 23 |
Martinique trip returns |
| 29 |
Classes resume |
Notes from Middle School Head, Paul Andrichuk
As many of you know there is a parent book group in the Middle School. One of the books, Linda Perlstein’s Not Much Just Chillin, chronicles the “secret lives” of middle schoolers.
Before you think “secret” means worst case or scary, I’d like to present a different perspective. There are times when your child’s “secret life” is a better indicator of their true self, it just cannot safely be revealed by them. It is your kinder, more vulnerable, and more genuine son or daughter. While I acknowledge we know this intellectually, it is an important reminder of where they need our support and how we might better communicate. Here are examples, according to Perlstein:
“They want to explore; they also want safe harbor.
They will admit that hibernating in their bedroom is not ideal for them either, not all the time.
They enjoy helping shape the rules and having responsibilities around the house, especially those that show off their talents—just not so much that it’s a burden.
They need some meaningful independence, and if they get it at home, they won’t seek it in inappropriate places.
They want to talk—but, please, not about chores.
They want to talk more about schoolwork, though not about grades.
They like to hear about their parents past and theirs.
They care what you think of them (as a family).
They want role models.
Your affection means tons to them, and they wouldn’t mind cuddling once in a while.”
An important reminder…….
Please join us on Thursday, February 18th at 7:00pm in the MS Commons for the 4th in a 5 part series on student health and wellness.
Carlos Valdes will be talking about fitness among youth.
J. Carlos Valdes is one the top fitness trainers and exercise instructors of the Pacific NW with over 16 years of experience. As a graduate of Purdue University, J.C. holds a Bachelors of Science Degree in Exercise and Sports Physiology and an Associate of Arts Degree in Physical Therapy. He is also a Fitness Specialist certified through the YMCA of the USA. J. C. uses his vast experience in the fitness industry to teach many Group Exercise Classes as well as train beginning to performance athletes. His training principles incorporate a powerful use of the entire human body (mind, body and spirit) to safely reach the horizon of an optimal daily living and fitness level. J. C. strives to bring the worlds of physical therapy rehab and personal training to a level of camaraderie in order to better serve his clients.
Re-enrollment contracts due February 19
Re-enrollment contracts for the 2010-11 school year were mailed on January 27. Signed contracts must be postmarked or hand delivered to Toad Hall by February 19. This deadline is firm. We cannot guarantee a spot for your child(ren) if we do not receive the contract by February 19.
If your child is not returning, please return the enrollment decline form by February 19.
Please call Traci Jernigan Rossi ’83 in the admission office if you have questions about re-enrollment, 503-297-1894 ext. 346. Questions concerning payment options should be directed to Mary Ann Rogers in the business office at 503-203-5114.
Girls Cross Country Ski Weekend
There are a few spots still open on the Girls Cross Country Ski trip February 27-28. We will head off into the mountains for a weekend of cross-country skiing through fluffy snow, icicles, and frosted trees. We will drive up to Mt. Hood to practice our skiing technique, explore open forests, scenic lakes, and find spectacular views. After a day of gliding through the hills, we will all settle into our own little room at the Mazama Lodge for an evening of storytelling, skits, and silliness. We will get up the next morning to explore a new area of the mountain, picnicking at a picturesque point, before returning home before dinner.
Why a girls trip? Girl’s trips provide a great opportunity for girls to try something new and develop competency, as well as bond with other girls, in a comfortable, emotionally safe setting.
This trip is open to all Middle School girls. No skiing experience is necessary—this is a great way to learn. Students should be in good condition and willing to be cold (and hot) during the two day trip.
The cost of the trip is $80 (plus $15 if you need to rent skis, boots, and poles).
To sign up email Olivia (millero@catlin.edu)
Friday, February 19, 6:30 p.m
Diversity and Multiculturalism in Independent Schools 
Three very capable girls enter 9th grade at top schools. There they confront worlds very different from the ones they come from.
Host: Diversity Steering Committee members Paul Andrichuk, Allen Schauffler, David Ellenberg, Zalika Gardner, Brett Mathes, Ann Fyfield, Veronica Ledoux
