Dear Covington Parents and Community Members:

I hope you had a wonderful winter break and you are excited about all that is happening over the next few months. It is hard to believe the Auction is just a month away! Next week also kicks off our Annual Junior Olympics Training for our 4th-6th graders; they are very excited!

Science Fair Update: March 17th-19th

I have had several new families inquire as to how the science fair works at Covington School. For starters, the Science Fair runs from March 17th-19th. Students bring their completed projects to the Multi-Purpose Room early Monday morning, March 17th, so their projects can proudly be displayed for the duration of the fair. During the week, classes have the opportunity to visit the fair to view student projects.

For students in grades K-4, the science project is optional. Students are highly encouraged to participate, but it is not mandatory that they submit a project or an idea. In several grades, the class collaborates around a collective project submitted by the teacher and focuses on teaching the scientific method, observation/note taking, recording data and of course working together as a team.

For 5th & 6th Grade students, submitting a project is mandatory, and students are encouraged to work in teams. This year, to keep things interesting, a student choice component has been added to the 5th Grade Projects. Fifth grade students have the option to choose one of the following project types: a Rube Goldberg device, designing an invention, or a Scientific Inquiry (the classic science fair project). This should be exciting; we have some very creative students!

If you have specific questions about grade level expectations/ projects, please contact your child's teacher. Families are invited to our Science Fair Night on the evening of Tuesday, March 18th, in the Multi-Purpose room to view and learn from our students' projects.

This coming Friday is our end-of-the-month indoor assembly! I hope to see everyone in our Multi-Purpose room at 8:30am! Have a wonderful week.

Sincerely,
Erin S. Green
Principal
Covington School

Important Dates – Please Note:
Feb 26 – JO Train the trainers for 4,5,6 parents 1:15pm-2:00pm @Springer
Mar 3 – JO Training begins in PE
Mar 14 – JO t-shirt size change deadline
Mar 17-19 – Science Fair
Mar 20 – Minimum Day
Mar 29 –Covington School Auction!
Mar 30 – JO Training begins in PE
April 7-11 Spring Break
April 26 – LASD Junior Olympics

Covington Auction:

Remember to RSVP and buy your auction tickets for a wonderful evening that benefits Covington School. For more information and ticket purchase, http://covington.schoolauction.net/auction2014

JO News:

TRAIN THE TRAINERS -presented by LASD PE Specialists
(TOMORROW)
WED / FEB 26 / 1:15 pm
Springer Elementary / 1120 Rose Avenue, Mtn View

• All LASD parents invited
• 45-minute session
• Covers all Junior Olympic events that LASD 4,5,6 graders will learn
• Event tips and techniques
• Especially helpful for parents volunteering during PE training sessions

TIME TRIALS begin the week of March 3 (NEXT WEEK) - students should dress in proper running attire - especially SHOES for all PE days

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED beginning Tuesday, March 11, to help with Junior Olympic training.

SIGN UP HERE

MORE INFORMATION visit lasdjo.com OR contact Covington's JO chair: jochaircovington@gmail.com

Multicultural Festival Meeting, Thursday, March 6th, 8:45 a.m., staff room!! Join us as we plan on how to celebrate our school's rich diversity at our upcoming Multicultural Festival on May 30th! So far, we have 13 confirmations for booths representing: America, Colombia, Iran, India, Ireland, Palestine, Philippines, Russia, Japan, China, France, Singapore and Germany. Aside from booths, we plan on having performances representing various countries, a fashion show, food trucks and much more. So if your child, or someone you know has a special talent like singing in another language or performing an ethnic dance, please let us know! Any questions or suggestions, contact Nadiah at nadiah@dishdash.com.

YEARBOOK INFORMATION: We need your photos! If you have pictures that you would like to share for the yearbook, please email, Christine Wedner, cwedner@mac.com. An invitation to the DropBox folder created will be sent to you and will allow you to upload photos to your child's class folder.

Also, don't forget that the deadline to create and customize 2 pages in the yearbook for your child is Wednesday, April 23rd. You can start customizing by clicking, www.TreeRing.com/validate and enter in the passcode: 1013595707721745

Have any other questions, please contact, Christine Wedner, cwedner@mac.com

After School Programs Upate: Engineering Fundamentals with LEGO starting in April. Check the Covington website for flyer and registration information: http://www.covingtonschool.org/covingtones/4757-After-School-Programs.html

LAEF: Tell Us What You Think! The LAEF Parent Survey is coming to your email inbox this week. LAEF knows parents appreciate high quality programs for their children; that is why we are asking for your input on current LAEF programs. The survey data will be used by the LAEF Board of Directors to understand your priorities for your student's educational experience, and to determine which programs to prioritize and fund next year.

YOUR INPUT IS CRITICAL! PLEASE COMPLETE the survey BY MARCH 7. If you do not receive the link, or have any questions, please contact the LAEF office at admin@laefonline.org

LAEF Representatives at Covington are:
Matt Abrahams, matt.abrahams@gmail.com
Anjana Nagarajan-Butaney, anjana.nagarajan1@gmail.com
Jessica Speiser, jessica@speiser.net
Ritu Kapoor (member at-large), ritu.kapoor@gmail.com

District & Community News: http://www.lasdk8.org/PDF_Files/Current_School_News.pdf

Post an Announcement in the Howler? If you have an announcement to include in Howler, please send it to sevard@lasdschools.org. Announcements must be received by 12:00pm on Friday in order to be considered for the Howler scheduled for the following Tuesday.

Reminder: Principal Coffee/PTA Meeting this Friday Feb 14th 8:30am.  We hope to see you there!

Dear Covington Parents and Community Members:

Many of you have asked questions about the Common Core Standards and how they will affect our yearly STAR testing and assessment process.

Update on the Smarter Balanced Spring Field Test from the LASD Curriculum Office

In transitioning to the new Common Core Standards, LASD has been focusing on ensuring that all students have experiences that include rigor, application of knowledge, and deep levels of understanding of essential concepts.  As the methods of instruction change to include critical thinking, collaboration, communication and creativity, the methods of assessment will also change to adjust to the new expectations of rigor and understanding.  You are probably already aware that the State of California will not longer administer the traditional STAR testing for 2nd-12th grade students, and will begin implementing the new Smarter Balanced online assessments.

LASD will participate in the Smarter Balanced Field Test for 3rd-8th grade students, during the April 14-May 16 testing window. Students will take both the English Language Arts and Math online assessments.  The Field Test is not designed to provide achievement information for students, but rather to help the test creators and administrators to refine the test and testing implementation process.  No student data will be provided to schools, parents or districts.

To prepare for this new testing platform, students will be taught the technical tools needed to successfully experience the online format.  You can access the tests that students will be using to practice these skills by following this link to the practice tests.  Simply click the “sign in” tab to access the tests.  These practice tests will provide students with experience using testing tools such as highlighting, click and drag, strikeouts, and the online calculator.

The main difference between traditional STAR testing and the new Smarter Balanced assessments is that students will be expected to reason and analyze information, and to explain their thinking in English language arts as well as mathematics.  We are confident that the LASD vision of revolutionizing learning, and the focus of providing students with innovative and engaging ways of displaying their knowledge, will continue to support student success.

Principal Coffee/ PTA Meeting this coming Friday!

Don't miss this Friday's PTA meeting and Principal Coffee, where our 2nd grade staff and students will be sharing how they are using technology to enhance learning. I hope to see you Friday!

Have a wonderful week.

All my best,
Erin S. Green
Principal
Covington School

Important Dates – Please Note:
Feb 14 – PTA Meeting/Parent Coffee
Feb 14 – Valentine’s Day Parties
Feb 14 – Last Day to Claim Lost & Found Items
Feb 17- Feb 21  – NO SCHOOL:  President’s Day plus Winter Recess
Feb 26 – JO Train the trainers for 4,5,6 parents 1:15pm-2:00pm @Springer
Mar 3 – Jo Training begins in PE
Mar 14 – JO t-shirt size change deadline
Mar 17-19 – Science Fair
Mar 20 – Minimum Day
Mar 29 –Covington School Auction!
Mar 30 – Jo Training begins in PE
April 26 – LASD Junior Olympics

Covington Auction News! The donation deadline has been extended to Feb 24 for the auction.  Talk to your local hair stylist, soccer coaches and favorite boutiques for donations. They can also donate their time in many different ways. Ask them to contact Christine Sellers if they want to donate.   Also, remember to RSVP and buy your auction tickets for a wonderful evening that benefits Covington School.  For more information and ticket purchase, http://covington.schoolauction.net/auction2014

JO News

Dear 4, 5, 6 grade families

Introductory information about the 54th LASD Junior Olympics has been sent to all families. Please check your email or visit this link (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1L1sIp6BbPQN4pDAsW36j6EVcxwN3xPGoofSDrCkvSPY/pub ) to learn more!

Science Fair News: The Covington 10th Annual Science Fair (March 17-19) is a school-wide event where students get a chance to explore new ideas and research topics that are interesting to you.  Last week at Science Night, Lawrence Hall of Science introduced some shock-tacular ideas about static electricity and electromagnetism!  This night was meant to get your creative and scientific juices flowing, and is just one area that you can explore!  The science fair packet is on the Covington Website: http://www.covingtonschool.org/covingtones/5537-Science-Fair.html

Participation in the Science Fair is required for 5th and 6th graders, but ALL grades are encouraged to participate.  Your science project will be on display in the Multi from March 17-19 where the whole school can see your creativity.  On March 18 (Multi, 6-8 pm), families are invited to walk through and enjoy the science projects as well.  

Key Info:

• Anyone can participate in the Science Fair!
• Group science projects welcome!
• Tri-fold display boards can be purchased at office supply stores
• Set up: Monday, March 17, 8:00-8:30 am in the Multi
• Exhibit: March 17-19 in the Multi
• Family Open House: March 18, 6-8:00 pm in the Multi
• Parent Volunteers Needed.  Sign up here!

Lost & Found is once again, overflowing. Please claim your child’s abandoned clothing before Feb. 14th or it will be donated to charity. Thank you.

YEARBOOK INFORMATION: We need your photos! If you have pictures that you would like to share for the yearbook, please email, Christine Wedner, cwedner@mac.com. An invitation to the DropBox folder created will be sent to you and will allow you to upload photos to your child's class folder.

Also, don't forget that the deadline to create and customize 2 pages in the yearbook for your child is Wednesday, April 23rd. You can start customizing by clicking, www.TreeRing.com/validate and enter in the passcode: 1013595707721745

Have any other questions, please contact, Christine Wedner, cwedner@mac.com

After School Programs: MVLA After school soccer program starts Feb. 24th.  Check out the flyer on the Covington Website http://www.covingtonschool.org/covingtones/4757-After-School-Programs.html or contact MVLA Soccer  www.mvlasc.org or Contact Coach Ken at coachkensocceracademy@gmail.com, 408-469-1182

LAEF: It’s not too late to make your LAEF donation for the 2013-14 school year! Our goal: 3.2 million and 100% participation. Funds are already at work in support of: smaller class sizes, extended library hours, STEM, physical education, Living Classroom lessons, art docent lessons, vocal and instrumental music. Who helps make LASD schools so outstanding? YOU DO! Donations can be made online at www.laefonline.org. Annual Fund suggested donation is $1,000 per student, and corporate matching is available. Invest in excellent schools and a strong community.

LAEF Representatives at Covington are:
Matt Abrahams, matt.abrahams@gmail.com
Anjana Nagarajan-Butaney, anjana.nagarajan1@gmail.com
Jessica Speiser, jessica@speiser.net
Ritu Kapoor (member at-large), ritu.kapoor@gmail.com

District & Community News: http://www.lasdk8.org/PDF_Files/Current_School_News.pdf

Post an Announcement in the Howler? If you have an announcement to include in Howler, please send it to sevard@lasdschools.org.  Announcements must be received by 12:00pm on Friday in order to be considered for the Howler scheduled for the following Tuesday.

Reminder:  If you have a friend or neighbor who may have forgotten to submit their Fall 2014 kindergarten registration documents, please remind them that priority registration closes this Friday, February 7.  All paperwork needs to be submitted to the home school by the end of the school day on Friday.

Dear Covington Parents and Community Members:

After watching the uneventful Super Bowl game on Sunday, I flipped the channel to 60 Minutes and was reminded about one of the amazing things going on at Covington.  Featured on 60 Minutes was the founder of Free the Children and a story about two elementary school students who made an incredible difference in the lives of people in a country far, far away.  I thought you might be interested in hearing how Covington is making a difference in the lives of our students. Please read below about all the things that are going on with our Cornerstone Club.

Many thanks to our awesome staff advisors; Michele Kibble, Erin Protho and Amber Stockstill.  They are doing a wonderful job inspiring our students.

Mark your calendars for our next parent coffee/PTA meeting on Friday Feb. 14th .

Sincerely,
Erin S. Green
Principal
Covington School

Important Dates – Please Note:
Feb 7 –Author Visit: 4th – 6th grades
Feb 7 – Father/Daughter Dance
Feb 14 – PTA Meeting/Parent Coffee
Feb 14 – Valentine’s Day Parties
Feb 14 – Last Day to Claim Lost & Found Items
Feb 17- Feb 21  – NO SCHOOL:  President’s Day plus Winter Recess
Mar 17-19 – Science Fair
Mar 20 - Minimum Day
Mar 29 –Covington School Auction!
April 26 – LASD Junior Olympics

Covington Auction tickets now on sale! For more information and ticket purchase, http://covington.schoolauction.net/auction2014

Science Fair News: The Covington 10th Annual Science Fair (March 17-19) is a school-wide event where students get a chance to explore new ideas and research topics that are interesting to you.  Last week at Science Night, Lawrence Hall of Science introduced some shock-tacular ideas about static electricity and electromagnetism!  This night was meant to get your creative and scientific juices flowing, and is just one area that you can explore!

Participation in the Science Fair is required for 5th and 6th graders, but ALL grades are encouraged to participate.  Your science project will be on display in the Multi from March 17-19 where the whole school can see your creativity.  On March 18 (Multi, 6-8 pm), families are invited to walk through and enjoy the science projects as well.  

Key Info:

• Anyone can participate in the Science Fair!
• Group science projects welcome!
• Tri-fold display boards can be purchased at office supply stores
• Set up: Monday, March 17, 8:00-8:30 am in the Multi
• Exhibit: March 17-19 in the Multi
• Family Open House: March 18, 6-8:00 pm in the Multi
• Parent Volunteers Needed.  Sign up here!

Lost & Found is once again, overflowing. Please claim your child’s abandoned clothing before Feb. 14th or it will be donated to charity. Thank you.

Minimum Day Parties: We have a minimum day coming up on March 20th!  Sign your child up for PTA sponsored afterschool activities at the following link, before space runs out: thttps://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dFZmYS03TnMxZGttdVFGUWhndE8zR3c6MQ#gid=0

Boy Scouts Collecting Supplies: Pack 76 Webelo Den 9 is collecting SCHOOL SUPPLIES for the Kilgoris Project through February 14.  Please donate any extra school supplies, including gently used backpacks, to help educate and feed the children of a Maasai village in southwest Kenya.  Donation boxes are located in the front of the Covington office, or please email lee@finaresources.com if you like the supplies picked up from your home or office.  To learn more, please visit http://thekilgorisproject.com  THANK YOU in advance for your generosity!

LAEF: Did you Know?  Covington has a dedicated librarian and is open five days a week because of your LAEF donations. LAEF funds the library staff at every LASD school site. Our librarian, Mrs. Drobot, is dedicated to fostering a love of reading and teaching 21st century information skills. In the library students are provided access to a rich collection of library materials and exposure to literature, with personalized book selection assistance.  Through library lessons students are taught the skills to be able to locate, evaluate and use information effectively. In addition, the virtual district library (https://sites.google.com/site/lasdlibraries) is filled with online resources by grade level, and allows students to check out up to 7 eBooks, so they can read on their Kindle, iPad, phone or other device. Library staff also collaborate with classroom teachers to make sure students have access to the materials they need to support the curriculum. Thank you for donating to LAEF and making these important library resources available to Covington students.

LAEF Representatives at Covington are:
Matt Abrahams, matt.abrahams@gmail.com
Anjana Nagarajan-Butaney, anjananagarajan@yahoo.com
Jessica Speiser, jessica@speiser.net
Ritu Kapoor (member at-large), ritu.kapoor@gmail.com

District & Community News: http://www.lasdk8.org/PDF_Files/Current_School_News.pdf

Post an Announcement in the Howler? If you have an announcement to include in Howler, please send it to sevard@lasdschools.org.  Announcements must be received by 12:00pm on Friday in order to be considered for the Howler scheduled for the following Tuesday.

Reminder:  If you have a friend or neighbor who may have forgotten to submit their Fall 2014 kindergarten registration documents, please remind them that priority registration closes on February 7.  All paperwork needs to be submitted to the home school by the end of the school day on February 7.

Dear Covington Parents and Community Members:

Family Science Night, Tonight: Please plan to join us on tonight from 6pm-8pm in the Covington Multi. Lawrence Hall of Science will present:  

“Electrifying Science: The Magic of Electricity.”  Experience science so electrifying that it literally makes students' hair stand on end! Marvel and join in as electricity levitates objects in midair, sets them ablaze, or lights them up from across the room. And look out when the lightning flies in their shock-tacular, high-voltage finale!   Science Night is funded by the Covington PTA, a kick-off event for the Science Fair, which takes place in March.

This year's Science Night will be in an assembly format in the Multi, with two assemblies back to back.  The assemblies are identical in content, just geared to younger crowds (6 - 6:50 p) and older crowds (7:10 - 8p).  You are welcome to attend either or both! 

Assembly 1:  Grades K-2: 6:00pm-6:45pm,
Assembly 2:  Grades 3-6:  7:10pm-8:00pm. 

Thanks to Ingrid Choong for organizing this for our Covington Community!

Sincerely,
Erin S. Green, Covington Principal

Important Dates – Please Note:
Jan 28 – Family Science Night 6pm-8pm, Multi
Jan 29 & Jan 30 – Egan & Blach Parent Tours
Feb 7 –Author Visit: 4th – 6th grades
Feb 7 – Father/Daughter Dance
Feb 17- Feb 21  – NO SCHOOL:  President’s Day plus Winter Recess
Mar 29 –Covington School Auction!
April 26 – LASD Junior Olympics

Multi-Cultural Fair Planning Meeting: Please join us on Tuesday, February 4th at 830 a.m. in the staff room to find out how you can help with our upcoming Multi-Cultural Fair in May. We need creative hands and minds to help celebrate our school's rich diversity! Our Multicultural Fair includes booths representing various countries, food, activities and performances.  If you cannot make it to this meeting, but would like to help or have questions, please contact Nadiah Mshasha at, nadiah@dishdash.com

DEADLINE FOR BOOK ORDERS FOR UPCOMING AUTHOR VISIT:
Get your orders in by this FRIDAY, JAN. 31. Students who wish to receive an autographed copy of Tony Abbott’s new book “The Copernicus Legacy: The Forbidden Stone” need to complete an order form and attach a check payable to Kepler’s Books prior to his visit to Covington School.   IMPORTANT: Forms must be returned to classroom teachers or the box in the office labeled “Author Visit” by FRIDAY, JAN. 31. Form can be found here: http://www.covingtonschool.org/

We are pleased to offer fourth through sixth graders the opportunity to attend an assembly featuring Tony Abbott, a bestselling author of nearly a hundred books for middle grade readers.  His visit to Covington is made possible by the PTA and at no charge to our school by Kepler’s Books in Menlo Park as part of their educational outreach program. - Maureen Drobot and Lori Parsons

Wine Donations Needed: The Covington Auction is coming soon!  If you'd like to donate a bottle of wine worth $25 or more, please drop off at Peter Martin & Ivette Loredo's porch on 80 Eleanor Ave in Los Altos by February 9th.  Thank you!  The wine lots are always best sellers at the auction!

Father-Daughter Dance: An event you won't want to miss... The Father/Daughter Sweetheart Dance!  Scheduled for Friday, February 7th from 6:30-8:30 in the Covington Multi.  Spaces Still Available.  $60 per couple.

(Available to all Covington girls and their escorts)

contact Tracey Leong tsakumoto67@gmail.com to register

Auction Party/Space still available: Aroma & Spice and All Things Light - Pakistani/Indian Cooking Class. Host: Sumaira Nabeel Time: 6PM . Date: Friday, February 7th, 2014 Location: Mian residence at 1015 Border Rd, Los Altos. Pakistani/Indian food cooking class led by Zareen Khan, the chef/founder at Curried Away Catering.  Participants will learn to make: Masoor Daal (Lentil Soup), Karahi Chicken Curry, Peas Pilau (a rice pilaf), Persian Cucumber and Mint Yogurt Raita and Mango Kulfi (dessert). Included are: drinks & appetizers, dinner, cooking instructions, recipe cards, and takeaway gift.   Contact sumaira.nabeel@gmail.com if interested. $60 per person

Covington Auction tickets now on sale! Early bird pricing available until January 31st! For more information and ticket purchase,
http://covington.schoolauction.net/auction2014

All Covington Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Graders:SAVE the DATE!
54th LASD Junior Olympics
Saturday, April 26, 2014 8am- 4pm
Mountain View High School
More information coming soon and at lasdjo.com

Pertussis Booster for Students in grade 6: Students currently in grade 6 must have proof of a Tdap or Dtap (Pertussis or Whooping Cough) booster given after their 7th birthday (after 10th birthday is recommended) in order to begin seventh grade in August of 2014. Please provide a copy of your child’s immunization record to your school office by March 14, 2014.

30th Annual Margaret Thompson Historical Essay Contest 2014 Theme: “Los Altos Art Works Enrich Our Lives and Community” Take a journey in your mind and imagine what would happen if your favorite work of art came alive! Describe an experience or adventure that happened one day. Within your writing, identify your work of art and tell where it is located. Be sure to include a beginning, middle, and end. Think about developing an organized flow of ideas. As you write, use interesting vocabulary and creative ideas.  For the complete essay prompt, go to http://www.losaltoshistory.org/

LAEF: Did you Know?...Living Classroom is hands-on, curriculum-based learning supported by LAEF. The Living Classroom utilizes school gardens and outdoor areas to provide children with hands-on learning experiences through engaging, garden-based lessons. These lessons complement the existing curriculum and provide the opportunity for students to experience concepts taught in the classroom through exploration of the natural world. Living Classroom lessons are designed to hold student interest and improve lesson retention through hands-on experience. Your donations to LAEF make this program possible. Learn more and make a donation today! www.laefonline.org

LAEF Representatives at Covington are:
Matt Abrahams, matt.abrahams@gmail.com
Anjana Nagarajan-Butaney, anjananagarajan@yahoo.com
Jessica Speiser, jessica@speiser.net
Ritu Kapoor (member at-large), ritu.kapoor@gmail.com

District & Community News: http://www.lasdk8.org/PDF_Files/Current_School_News.pdf

Post an Announcement in the Howler? If you have an announcement to include in Howler, please send it to sevard@lasdschools.org.  Announcements must be received by 12:00pm on Friday in order to be considered for the Howler scheduled for the following Tuesday.

Dear Covington Parents and Community Members:

Math Circles 3:00pm-4:15pm today: Don’t forget if you signed your child up for the math circles enrichment program today after school, it runs from 3:00pm-4:15pm.  Please be sure to pick your child up promptly at 4:15pm. We would love to have parent helpers, so please join us if you can.  Also, school policies are still in effect, so primary students attending the math circles need to be supervised from 2:20pm-3:00pm.  Thank you very much for your support.

Family Science Night; Please plan to join us on Tuesday January 28 from 6pm-8pm in the Covington Multi. Thanks to Ingrid Choong for organizing this for our Covington Community!

After School Pick Up Guidelines: Just a friendly reminder that afternoon kindergarten is in session until 3:05pm. The play area outside those classrooms is not open for public play until after that time.  Children can play on the main playground after school hours (2:40p) with parent supervision.  Thank you for picking up your children promptly at the designated dismissal time.  We do not provide supervision after school and your children’s safety is our top priority.

Substitutes Needed: If you would like to spend more time on our campus and become a credentialed substitute teacher, we need you!  Its easy, if you have a Bachelor’s Degree, you just need to take the CBEST test and then register as a substitute with the SCCOE and our district. For more information on sub requirements:http://www.sccoe.org/depts/Human-Resources/Credential-Services/Pages/Substitute-Teacher-Reqts.aspx and the LASD applicationhttp://www.lasdschools.org/files/user/1/file/Certificated%20Substitute%20App%202013.pdf We would love to add to our substitute pool and have Covington parents serve as our guest teachers. 

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Sincerely,
Erin S. Green, Covington Principal

Important Dates – Please Note:
Jan 25 -  Boys Night Out
Jan 28 – Family Science Night 6pm-8pm, Multi
Jan 29 & Jan 30 – Egan & Blach Parent Tours
Feb 7 –Author Visit: 4th – 6th grades
Feb 7 – Father/Daughter Dance
Feb 17- Feb 21  – NO SCHOOL:  President’s Day plus Winter Recess
Mar 29 – Save the Date: Covington School Auction!

Author Visit 4th-6th grade: Author Tony Abbott will Visit Covington on Friday, February 7 at an afternoon assembly for fourth through sixth graders.  

Bestselling author of Secrets of Droon series is back with an epic new middle-grade series, the Copernicus Legacy, which begins with The Forbidden Stone.

Mr. Abbott is author of more than 95 children's books, and has sold more than 12 million books worldwide.  IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS!  For those who wish to purchase a copy of The Forbidden Stone, please return the order form (found on our website http://www.covingtonschool.org) and a check payable to Kepler's Books to your child's classroom or the Author Visit box in the office no later than Friday, January 31. -Lori Parsons, Author Visit Chair & Maureen Drobot, Librarian

Father-Daughter Dance: An event you won't want to miss... The Father/Daughter Sweetheart Dance!  Scheduled for Friday, February 7th from 6:30-8:30 in the Covington Multi.  Spaces Still Available.  $60 per couple.

(Available to all Covington girls and their escorts)

contact Tracey Leong tsakumoto67@gmail.com to register

Auction Party/Space still available: Aroma & Spice and All Things Light - Pakistani/Indian Cooking Class. Host: Sumaira Nabeel Time: 6PM . Date: Friday, February 7th, 2014 Location: Mian residence at 1015 Border Rd, Los Altos. Pakistani/Indian food cooking class led by Zareen Khan, the chef/founder at Curried Away Catering.  Participants will learn to make: Masoor Daal (Lentil Soup), Karahi Chicken Curry, Peas Pilau (a rice pilaf), Persian Cucumber and Mint Yogurt Raita and Mango Kulfi (dessert). Included are: drinks & appetizers, dinner, cooking instructions, recipe cards, and takeaway gift.   Contact sumaira.nabeel@gmail.com if interested. $60 per person

Space Still Available at Boys Night Out: Join Covington Boys and Dads for Boys Night Out.  Spend the evening at the Area 151 Arcade+ Red Racer Hobby Shop in Downtown Los Altos.  Super Fun!!

Pizza/Soda/100 Tokens/Slot Car Track/Legos.

Saturday January 25th / 5:30 - 7:30PM / Pizza/Soda/100 Tokens/Slot Car Track/Legos. $25 per person/ $50 for Father and Son

Pizza at Area 151 at 5:30PM. To save your spot please email John Crawford at jbcrawfo@aol.com. Make checks payable to: Covington PTA and return to Boy's Night Out box in Covington Office

Covington Auction tickets now on sale! Early bird pricing available until January 31st! For more information and ticket purchase,

http://covington.schoolauction.net/auction2014

Project Cornerstone News: Hello Fellow PC Leads!

We are hosting a Take It Personally parent study group starting Monday, January 27th .  The workshop will take place in the Gardner Bullis Library from 7:00 – 8:30PM.  Linda Silvius will be facilitating.  Also, if you have any readers that haven’t taken Assets 101, feel free to encourage them to come, this workshop fills that requirement. 

Thank you for your generosity and your donations to Family Giving Tree- Holiday Wish Drive: We have outdone ourselves and have fulfilled more wishes than in the past! Way to go Coyotes!!! Nearly 68,000 Bay Area children received gifts this holiday thanks to your generosity!

Organization name: Covington Elementary School

Total wishes fulfilled: 125

Pertussis Booster for Students in grade 6: Students currently in grade 6 must have proof of a Tdap or Dtap (Pertussis or Whooping Cough) booster given after their 7th birthday (after 10th birthday is recommended) in order to begin seventh grade in August of 2014. Please provide a copy of your child’s immunization record to your school office by March 14, 2014.

Did you Know...K-3 class sizes are 25 or smaller because of LAEF?

The 2013-14 LAEF grant provides funding for the teachers needed to keep class sizes lower. Kindergarten through third grades are limited to a maximum of 25 students per class because of your donations.  In addition, first and second grade classes have a trained instructor during Literacy/Reading lessons for 45 minutes, four days a week. This lowers the student-to-teacher ratio even farther. Keeping student-to-teacher ratios lower during these critical educational years is important to LASD parents, and these dollars are hard at work in our classrooms today.

The LAEF grant benefits every student in every grade evenly. We have less than $1 million to go for programs that are currently in place in our classrooms this year.

LAEF Representatives at Covington are:

Matt Abrahams, matt.abrahams@gmail.com
Anjana Nagarajan-Butaney, anjananagarajan@yahoo.com
Jessica Speiser, jessica@speiser.net
Ritu Kapoor (member at-large), ritu.kapoor@gmail.com

Make Your Tax Deductible Donation Today!  www.laefonline.org

District & Community News: http://www.lasdk8.org/PDF_Files/Current_School_News.pdf

Post an Announcement in the Howler? If you have an announcement to include in Howler, please send it to sevard@lasdschools.org.  Announcements must be received by 12:00pm on Friday in order to be considered for the Howler scheduled for the following Tuesday.

REMINDER: MONDAY JAN. 20TH & TUESDAY JAN. 21: MLK HOLIDAY + TEACHER WORK DAY = NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS

Dear Covington Parents and Community Members:

PTA/Principal Coffee This Friday: Please join us in the staff room after the flag salute/morning assembly.  Miss Gibo and Ms. Foster will be sharing what is happening in kindergarten and how they are integrating technology into the classroom. 

Kindergarten Registration Still Ongoing:  Open Enrollment continues until 2/7/14.  Registration materials are available in the Covington office.  If you have a kindergartner or transitional kindergartner for next fall, be sure to register now.

If you have questions about registration, please call our school office.

Egan & Blach Parent Tours: If you have a 6th grader, be sure to note that New Parent Tours at our wonderful Junior Highs are scheduled in January and March.  You can check the website at either school for more information: www.eganschool.org or www.blachschool.org.

Sincerely,
Erin S. Green, Covington Principal

Important Dates – Please Note:
Jan. 17 – PTA Meeting/Principal Coffee 8:30am
Jan 17  – School Spirit Day: Football Day (No pads, cleats or helmets)
Jan 20 – NO SCHOOL: MLK Holiday
Jan 21 – NO SCHOOL: Staff Development Day
Jan 25 - Save the Date: Boys Night Out
Jan 29 & Jan 30 – Egan & Blach Parent Tours
Feb 17- Feb 21  – NO SCHOOL:  President’s Day plus Winter Recess
Mar 29 – Save the Date: Covington School Auction!

Space Still Available at Boys Night Out: Join Covington Boys and Dads for Boys Night Out.  Spend the evening at the Area 151 Arcade + Red Racer Hobby Shop in Downtown Los Altos.  Super Fun!!

Pizza/Soda/100 Tokens/Slot Car Track/Legos.
Saturday January 25th / 5:30 - 7:30PM / Pizza/Soda/100 Tokens/Slot Car Track/Legos. $25 per person/ $50 for Father and Son

Pizza at Area 151 at 5:30PM. To save your spot please email John Crawford at jbcrawfo@aol.com. Make checks payable to: Covington PTA and return to Boy's Night Out box in Covington Office

Covington Auction tickets now on sale! Early bird pricing available until January 31st! For more information and ticket purchase,
http://covington.schoolauction.net/auction2014

Amazon Rebates: For the Month of December, Covington has earned $424 from Amazon rebates!  That is almost $3000 for the school year so far.  Don't forget to go through the Covington website when you shop on Amazon. Costs you nothing and Covington gets free money!

Pertussis Booster for Students in grade 6: Students currently in grade 6 must have proof of a Tdap or Dtap (Pertussis or Whooping Cough) booster given after their 7th birthday (after 10th birthday is recommended) in order to begin seventh grade in August of 2014. Please provide a copy of your child’s immunization record to your school office by March 14, 2014.

After School Programs: Basketball, Science and other programs are enrolling for Winter 2014. Check the Covington Website for more information. http://www.covingtonschool.org/covingtones/4757-After-School-Programs.html   

District & Community News: http://www.lasdk8.org/PDF_Files/Current_School_News.pdf

Post an Announcement in the Howler? If you have an announcement to include in Howler, please send it to sevard@lasdschools.org.  Announcements must be received by 12:00pm on Friday in order to be considered for the Howler scheduled for the following Tuesday.

Dear Covington Parents and Community Members:

I hope you had a wonderful holiday and break from school.   The holidays bring about one of my favorite times of the year, the start of the New Year!  I love how after the holidays end, we go back to our normal lives, yet things seem different.  A new year represents a new beginning, a chance to redo, restart and reflect.  I love starting the year with a fresh perspective and hope that the future will bring amazing possibilities and greatness.  We have accomplished a great deal this fall and I know 2014 will be an even greater year.

Math Enrichment Opportunity-Wednesday, January 22nd 3-4:30pm
Is your child passionate about math?  On Jan 22, 2014 we will be conducting an experimental math circle for children who are interested in math enrichment. The circle is modeled after similar math circles around the Bay Area and the US and will be led by Alon Amit, a Covington parent and math Ph.D. who has been involved with math circles at Berkeley, Stanford, AIM and more. This is an optional activity but we encourage children to come and try it out!  If you are interested, please RSVP to Susan Evard, our school secretary, sevard@lasdschools.org

Project Cornerstone on the Move
We had a great turnout at our first Project Cornerstone Club meeting and heard some very innovative and creative ideas from our new members.  We are looking forward to more great planning and helping students put their ideas into action!  Our next Cornerstone Club meeting will be at lunch on Thursday, January 9th.  All students are welcome.

ASSEMBLY (4th-6th grade) Thursday, Feb. 6, 11:00am:  Free the Children (http://www.freethechildren.com/about-us/), an international charity organization, has partnered with the Cornerstone Club this year and will be speaking to all 4th, 5th, and 6th graders at our assembly on Thursday, February 6th in the multi.  The speaker, Alysha Sekhon, will discuss how Free the Children was started, how students can get involved and contribute, and opportunities like We Day (http://www.weday.com/we-day-events/we-day-cities/california/).  The Cornerstone Club will get to work directly with Alysha immediately after the assembly at its regular lunchtime meeting.  Covington has previously partnered with Free the Children to build a school in Sierra Leone, and to provide Clean Water for Ecuador.

If you are on campus tomorrow after lunch, you won't want to miss the Geography Bee competition in our Multi at 12:45!

Have a wonderful week and I wish you the best in 2014!

Sincerely,
Erin S. Green, Covington Principal

Important Dates – Please Note:
1/20/14 – NO SCHOOL: MLK Holiday
1/21/14 – NO SCHOOL: Staff Development Day
1/25/14- Save the Date: Boys Night Out
2/17/14-2/21/14 – NO SCHOOL:  President’s Day plus Winter Recess
3/29/14 – Save the Date: Covington School Auction!

Boys Night Out: Area 151 + Red Racer Hobby Shop.
Pizza/Soda/100 Tokens/Slot Car Track/Legos.
Saturday January 25th / 5:30 - 7:30PM / Pizza/Soda/100 Tokens/Slot Car Track/Legos. $25 per person/ $50 for Father and Son
Pizza at Area 151 at 5:30PM. To save your spot please email John Crawford at jbcrawfo@aol.com by January 10th. Make checks payable to: Covington PTA and return to Boy's Night Out box in Covington Office

Pertussis Booster for Students in grade 6: Students currently in grade 6 must have proof of a Tdap or Dtap (Pertussis or Whooping Cough) booster given after their 7th birthday (after 10th birthday is recommended) in order to begin seventh grade in August of 2014. Please provide a copy of your child’s immunization record to your school office by March 14, 2014.

Run Club News: The Coyote Pack Run Club and Sacred Heart Community Services would like to thank our wonderful Covington community for donating 172 pairs of shoes to our shoe donation drive. The shoes were delivered to Sacred Heart over the holiday break. A big thank you to everyone who contributed to this successful effort to aid the less fortunate in the Silicon Valley. Way to go Covington! 

LAEF: Happy New Year! Did you notice the progress bar on the LAEF sign in front of Covington? We have made great progress toward our goal for the 2013-14 school year, thanks to all of the families who donated in 2013. If you are not among them, please go to www.laefonline.org and donate now. We still have $1 million to raise, and we strive for 100% participation.

LAEF Representatives at Covington are:
Matt Abrahams, matt.abrahams@gmail.com
Anjana Nagarajan-Butaney, anjananagarajan@yahoo.com
Jessica Speiser, jessica@speiser.net
Ritu Kapoor (member at-large), ritu.kapoor@gmail.com

Make Your Tax Deductible Donation Today!  www.laefonline.org   

EVERYTHING IS PERFECT: Los Altos World Records 2014
Want to be in the Los Altos World Record Book?  Czech Republic artist, Katerina Seda creates collaborative actions that center on the daily lives of ordinary people.  As part of Project Los Altos, SFMOMA on the Go, she is creating a book and exhibition of the people in Los Altos with an “ordinary talent”.  Seda focuses not on feats of strength or skill, but on the everyday attributes that make a person unique – the bluest eyes, the largest collection of baseball cards, legos, or dolls, the biggest holiday light display, etc. Visit www.everythingisperfect.org for more information and to submit your record.  Deadline for submission is January 31, 2014.

District & Community News: http://www.lasdk8.org/PDF_Files/Current_School_News.pdf

Post an Announcement in the Howler? If you have an announcement to include in Howler, please send it to sevard@lasdschools.org.  Announcements must be received by 12:00pm on Friday in order to be considered for the Howler scheduled for the following Tuesday.

Important: No Homework Club this Thursday December 19th.

Winter Break Starts Friday December 20th. See everyone back at school on Monday January 6th, 2014.

Homework Club-Last Day, Tuesday, December 17th!
Homework club will be open on Monday and Tuesday of this week only.  We look forward to seeing your child back in Homework Club on January 6th.

Hour of Code
Last week, all of our students participated in the Hour of Code initiative as part of our STEM curriculum with Mrs. Farley. In addition, our 6th graders also have the unique opportunity to work with Mrs. Sheena V on a weekly basis.  Mrs. V. brings her passion and love for mathematics and STEM to children at Covington. She is a wonderful role model for all of our students. Thanks to her, our students are inspired and motivated.  I hope you enjoy the two articles written by Mrs. V:

https://www.edsurge.com/n/2013-12-09-opinion-we-need-coding-in-schools-but-where-are-the-teachers

http://blogs.kqed.org/mindshift/2013/12/how-one-hour-of-code-can-launch-an-entire-computer-science-program/

California Distinguished School Application Submitted!
Late November, LASD was notified that Covington was eligible to apply to be recognized as a California Distinguished School.  After sharing this news with our stakeholders, there was an overwhelming response to go for it!  With the help of several awesome Covington parents, some brand new to Covington and some having a long history with our school, we were able to put together a dynamic team to write, research and collect data and information about our successful programs and unique characteristics.  Our staff, teachers, and 5th and 6th grade students all provided input.  I am happy to report we sent off our application last Friday.  Our application will be reviewed in January and if we are successful, we should be notified in February as to the next steps. I am so proud to be a part of our collaborative community; it truly takes a village, and we had so many people rally together to get our application together.  Special thanks to Sue Boennighausen,  Jennifer Ebbitt,  Jessica Speiser and Lara Sullivan. They spent countless hours planning, collaborating, providing feedback, and finally writing and editing.  I am so proud of the collective effort of our community. Here's to good things to come in 2014!

On behalf of our staff and teachers at Covington Elementary School, happy holidays to you and your families!  We look forward to seeing you all back at Covington on January 6, 2014!

Sincerely,
Erin S. Green
Covington Principal

Important Dates – Please Note:
12/20-1/3 – December Break, No School
1/25/14- Save the Date: Boys Night Out
1/6/14 –School Resumes Today
3/29/14 – Save the Date: Covington School Auction!

Lost & Found: Once again the Lost & Found is overflowing. Please pick up your jackets, coats and other items by Thursday Dec. 19th. Anything left over the break will be donated to charity.

Run Club News: The Coyote Pack Run Club's shoe donation drive continues this week.  Please consider sharing your gently traveled, used shoes to benefit those in need in the Silicon Valley. Our shoe donation drive will benefit a program called Gracie's Clothes Closet at Sacred Heart Community Service in San Jose. http://www.sacredheartcs.org  A donation tub is located in front of the school, near the front office. Please rubber band pairs of shoes together or put them in a plastic bag. Any size. Any style.  Your support can help make an impact in the lives of working poor families in the Silicon Valley. Contact Jen Roy McGuigan with questions: jenowenroy@gmail.com

Boys Night Out: Area 151 + Red Racer Hobby Shop.
Pizza/Soda/100 Tokens/Slot Car Track/Legos.
Saturday January 25th / 5:30 - 7:30PM / Pizza/Soda/100 Tokens/Slot Car Track/Legos. $25 per person/ $50 for Father and Son
Pizza at Area 151 at 5:30PM. To save your spot please email John Crawford at jbcrawfo@aol.com by January 10th. Make checks payable to: Covington PTA and return to Boy's Night Out box in Covington Office

After School Programs: Science Explorers is registering for Winter Programs. Check the Covington Website for new flyers and information: http://www.covingtonschool.org/covingtones/4757-After-School-Programs.html

AMAZON SHOPPERS :For Month of November, Covington has earned $332 from Amazon rebates and $351 from eScrip Rebates!  That is almost $2500 for the school year so far.  Don't forget to go through the Covington website when you shop on Amazon for all of your holiday shopping.  Covington gets free money.

TELL YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS TOO!   Make Your Holiday Shopping Count for Covington! Earn referral fees for Covington on purchases of books, electronics, toys, and more. It’s EASY and DOESN’T COST YOU ANYTHING! Go to www.covingtonschool.org, click the Amazon logo on the lower right side to go to the Amazon website, then select and purchase your items as you normally would. Covington will automatically receive a referral fee of at least 6.5%!  No sign-up required. Questions? Contact Dale Tritschler at daletritschler@gmail.com.

Auction Help Wanted: We need a videographer to help with the auction. Please contact Jenny Bennett for more info jenniferpbennett@hotmail.com

Pertussis Booster for Students in grade 6: Students currently in grade 6 must have proof of a Tdap or Dtap (Pertussis or Whooping Cough) booster given after their 7th birthday (after 10th birthday is recommended) in order to begin seventh grade in August of 2014. Please provide a copy of your child’s immunization record to your school office by March 14, 2014.

LAEF: We love educational enrichment programs!  Parent donations to LAEF fund teachers and staff who provide a wide range of enrichment programs for your child: art, music, library, science, PE, cStem. In many school districts, such programs have been cut because of budget pressures. These programs would not exist at LASD without your donations! A well-rounded public school education is a priority for the Los Altos community, so we fund it ourselves through LAEF. Support your child’s well-rounded, enriched education at Covington. 

Tiny Prints: Remember to order beautiful holiday cards from Tiny Prints using the LAEF storefront, and 25% of the proceeds go to LAEF! Start here: http://www.tinyprints.com/storefront/laef

LAEF Representatives at Covington are:
Matt Abrahams, matt.abrahams@gmail.com
Anjana Nagarajan-Butaney, anjananagarajan@yahoo.com
Jessica Speiser, jessica@speiser.net
Ritu Kapoor (member at-large), ritu.kapoor@gmail.com

Make Your Tax Deductible Donation Today!  www.laefonline.org

EVERYTHING IS PERFECT: Los Altos World Records 2014
Want to be in the Los Altos World Record Book?  Czech Republic artist, Katerina Seda creates collaborative actions that center on the daily lives of ordinary people.  As part of Project Los Altos, SFMOMA on the Go, she is creating a book and exhibition of the people in Los Altos with an “ordinary talent”.  Seda focuses not on feats of strength or skill, but on the everyday attributes that make a person unique – the bluest eyes, the largest collection of baseball cards, legos, or dolls, the biggest holiday light display, etc.  Visit www.everythingisperfect.org for more information and to submit your record.  Deadline for submission is January 31, 2014. 

District & Community News: http://www.lasdk8.org/PDF_Files/Current_School_News.pdf

Post an Announcement in the Howler? If you have an announcement to include in Howler, please send it to sevard@lasdschools.org.  Announcements must be received by 12:00pm on Friday in order to be considered for the Howler scheduled for the following Tuesday.

Dear Covington Parents and Community Members:

Kinder/New Family Night: We had an awesome turnout last week for our Kindergarten & New Family Night with over 100 attendees.  I would like to thank Suzanne Kasso, Fionnuala Loughran, Steve Smiley, Yasmin Braun, Mara Starkey, Ansley Jentz, Sangeeth Peruri, Jennifer Townhill, Dolly Eckinger, Kathryn Okashima, Julie Altinger, Jaya Kamath, Christine Sellers and Manjita Bhaumik for coming to talk to prospective parents and share our enthusiasm for Covington.  I also want to thank Alexander Eckinger and Lara Babu for speaking and all the other 5th & 6th grade students who stood out in the cold to greet our visitors.  Kindergarten registration is now in full swing and open enrollment continues until February 7th.

Book Fair: Thank you to Mara Starkey and Jessica Schantz and our awesome team of PTA volunteers for their fabulous work and dedication to our Covington Book Fair.  The Book Fair was a great success and Covington students, parents and staff enjoyed shopping while supporting the Covington PTA.

Upper Grade Music Concert Dec. 16th thanks to LAEF

I want to remind you that the music program is one of the many programs funded at Covington School, thanks to your donations to the Los Altos Educational Foundation. You make it possible for our children to get an exceptional education.  I look forward to seeing everyone next Monday at 1:00pm.  Thank you so much for your support.

Sincerely,
Erin S. Green
Covington Principal

Important Dates – Please Note:
12/11 –Dine Out for Covington @ Chipotle, MV
12/13 – Indoor Assembly
12/13 – Stay and Play
12/16 – 4-6th grade music concert, 1pm
12/20-1/3 – December Break, No School
1/25/14- Save the Date: Boys Night Out
1/6/14 –School Resumes Today
3/29/14 – Save the Date: Covington School Auction!

Dine out for Covington at Chipotle Mountain View Wed. 12/11: 50% of your order will be donated back to our school. This applies to all orders: takeout and online. Time: 4 to 8 pm. Date: Wednesday, 12/11. Location: 1039 El Monte Ave., Mountain View. Phone #: 650.804.0820. No flyer needed, just tell them you're with Covington. Please note that there's a long line at Chipotle during dinnertime, so consider ordering online!!!

Student Council News:  Friday, December 13 - Winter Stay 'n' Play
Have your kids stick around and enjoy some snacks with the student council on Friday, December 13 for our winter Stay 'n' Play!  We'll be hanging out and munching on goodies from 2:45 - 3:10.  Please remember that a parent or guardian must be present for each child at the Stay 'n' Play.

Daybreaker & Coyote Chorus Fall Concert – All are welcome.  Friday Dec. 13th, 7pm in the Covington Multi.

After School Programs: Science Explorers is registering for Winter Programs. Check the Covington Website for new flyers and information: http://www.covingtonschool.org/covingtones/4757-After-School-Programs.html

AMAZON SHOPPERS – Make Your Holiday Shopping Count for Covington!
Earn referral fees for Covington on purchases of books, electronics, toys, and more. It’s EASY and DOESN’T COST YOU ANYTHING! Go to www.covingtonschool.org, click the Amazon logo on the lower right side to go to the Amazon website, then select and purchase your items as you normally would. Covington will automatically receive a referral fee of at least 6.5%!  No sign-up required. Questions? Contact Dale Tritschler at daletritschler@gmail.com.         

Auction Help Wanted: We need a videographer to help with the auction. Please contact Jenny Bennett for more info jenniferpbennett@hotmail.com

LAEF: We love educational enrichment programs!  Parent donations to LAEF fund teachers and staff who provide a wide range of enrichment programs for your child: art, music, library, science, PE, cStem. In many school districts, such programs have been cut because of budget pressures. These programs would not exist at LASD without your donations! A well-rounded public school education is a priority for the Los Altos community, so we fund it ourselves through LAEF. Support your child’s well-rounded, enriched education at Covington. 

Tiny Prints: Remember to order beautiful holiday cards from Tiny Prints using the LAEF storefront, and 25% of the proceeds go to LAEF! Start here: http://www.tinyprints.com/storefront/laef

LAEF Representatives at Covington are:
Matt Abrahams, matt.abrahams@gmail.com
Anjana Nagarajan-Butaney, anjananagarajan@yahoo.com
Jessica Speiser, jessica@speiser.net
Ritu Kapoor (member at-large), ritu.kapoor@gmail.com

Make Your Tax Deductible Donation Today!  www.laefonline.org

District & Community News: http://www.lasdk8.org/PDF_Files/Current_School_News.pdf

Post an Announcement in the Howler? If you have an announcement to include in Howler, please send it to sevard@lasdschools.org.  Announcements must be received by 12:00pm on Friday in order to be considered for the Howler scheduled for the following Tuesday.

Dear Covington Parents and Community Members:

Kindergarten & New Family Information Night, this Thursday Dec.5th 7pm: We will hold our Kindergarten/New Parent information night for students entering Kindergarten or moving to our district for the 2014-15 school year.  Information will be presented on our district and school programs, highlights and registration.  If you have a child who will be entering kindergarten in the fall, you won't want to miss this night!  Please join us at 7pm in the library on Thursday night.

Computer Science Education Week: December 9th - 13th : - a week dedicated to helping students in grades K-12 understand the importance of computer science education.  A computer science website called code.org has set a goal for Computer Science Education Week of getting 10 million students of all ages (including adults!) to participate in one hour of code during the week.  We are proud to announce that students at Covington School and all throughout LASD will be participating in the Hour of Code!  According to code.org, "90% of K-12 schools in the U.S. do not teach computer science."  Thanks to funding from LAEF, Los Altos School District is fortunate enough to be in the 10% of U.S. Schools that do offer every student the opportunity to learn computational thinking through the STEM and C-STEM programs. 

How can you help?

1.  Come help out in lunch clubs that will all be focused this week on computational thinking.  Tuesday is 1st and 4th grade, Wednesday is 2nd and 5th grade, and Thursday is 3rd and 6th grade.  Contact Mrs. Farley directly to sign up:  kfarley@lasdschools.org

2. Continue to reinforce these computational thinking skills at home with the apps and activities that we will be using for the Hour of Code (listed below):

-Kindergarten: Bee bot app https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/beebot/id500131639?mt=8,
-1st grade: Daisy the Dinosaur app https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/daisy-the-dinosaur/id490514278,
-2nd Grade: Hopscotch app  https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/hopscotch-coding-for        kids/id617098629?mt=8,
-3rd – 5th  grade:  Scratch http://scratch.mit.edu/,
-6th grade: Will continue with c-STEM curriculum. 

Your support is greatly appreciated!

Sincerely,
Erin S. Green
Covington Principal

Important Dates – Please Note:
12/2-12/6 – Book Fair
12/5 – Kindergarten & New Family Information Night, 7pm, Covington Library
12/6 – Pajama Day
12/11 –Dine Out for Covington @ Chipotle, MV
12/13 – Indoor Assembly
12/13 – Stay and Play
12/16 – 4-6th grade music concert, 1pm
12/20-1/3 – December Break, No School
1/6/14 –School Resumes Today

Cornerstone Club Update!

Thank you again to all the students who came out for our first Cornerstone Club event, Expect Respect, back on November 14.  It was a great success and very fun to see so much enthusiasm and student initiative!  We are looking forward to our first lunchtime meeting THIS Thursday, December 5, in Room 10 (Ms. Kibble's room) for fun activities and time for teaming and working on student Action Plans.  The Cornerstone Club is open to ALL 4th through 6th graders, regardless of whether they participated in the Expect Respect workshop – please encourage your kids to join us on Thursday if they'd like to get involved!

Student Council News:

Friday, December 6 - Pajama Day
Add some sleep-in time to your morning schedule on Friday, December 6, because it's Covington's Pajama Day!  Have your kids wear their favorite PJs and robes to school - and don't forget the slippers!  See you then!

Friday, December 13 - Winter Stay 'n' Play
Have your kids stick around and enjoy some snacks with the student council on Friday, December 13 for our winter Stay 'n' Play!  We'll be hanging out and munching on goodies from 2:45 - 3:10.  Please remember that a parent or guardian must be present for each child at the Stay 'n' Play.

Family Giving Tree gifts are due by Tuesday, December 10th!!

Please pick a wish card from your child's class and fulfill a child's wish for the holidays!  There is a big bright red bin in front of the office to collect your gift items. If you are planning on donating a gift card, etc., please leave these in the Family Giving Tree slot at the school office! Your child can pick a prize from the prize bin located in the school office for fulfilling a holiday wish of a needy child!  Remember donations are tax deductible and some companies offer employee matching. Here is the link for online donations-https://vgt.familygivingtree.org/covingtonelementaryschool/

Save the Date, Covington Auction is March 29, 2014: Join us for an evening of Mystery& Masquerade!

Auction Help Wanted: We need a videographer to help with the auction. Please contact Jenny Bennett for more info jenniferpbennett@hotmail.com"

Girls On The Run (GOTR) Registration

We are excited to offer this great program to the 3rd-5thgrade girls at Covington this coming spring! GOTR will meet on Monday and Wednesday after school until 4PM, for 10 weeks beginning the week of March 3rd.  The girls will train for a 5k run/walk event to be held on Saturday, May 17th in Vasona Park, Los Gatos.  Registration will be ONLINE ONLY and will open on SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7th at 8:00am.  Space is limited and girls will be registered on a first come/first serve basis.  Check out www.gotrsv.org for more information or contact Covington head coach, Tawni Atherley (tatherley@post.harvard.edu) 

LAEF End of Year Reminders

If you haven’t already contributed to LAEF, make your donation before December 31 to get your deduction for the 2013 tax year.  If you have already given, thank you so much for supporting smaller classes, enrichment, innovation, and STEM at Covington School.  Also, order beautiful holiday cards from TinyPrints using the LAEF storefront, and 25% of the proceeds go to LAEF! Start here: http://www.tinyprints.com/storefront/laef

LAEF Representatives at Covington are: Matt Abrahams, matt.abrahams@gmail.com, Anjana Nagarajan-Butaney, anjananagarajan@yahoo.com ,Jessica Speiser, jessica@speiser.net,

Ritu Kapoor (member at-large), ritu.kapoor@gmail.com

Make Your Tax Deductible Donation Today!  www.laefonline.org

After School Art Still has Space

"Join us on Wednesday this week for after school Art Club! The Winter Art Club theme is A World of Art.  Students will paint, draw and sculpt using traditional art from other cultures as inspiration.  Different regions of the world are studied each session!  Using a variety of mediums students will learn new techniques from CSMA faculty while they create art from around the globe!" http://www.covingtonschool.org/covingtones/4757-After-School-Programs.html

District & Community News

http://www.lasdk8.org/PDF_Files/Current_School_News.pdf

Post an Announcement in the Howler?

If you have an announcement to include in Howler, please send it to sevard@lasdschools.org.  Announcements must be received by 12:00pm on Friday in order to be considered for the Howler scheduled for the following Tuesday.