KSD News
Dear KSD Community,
There is a beautiful buzz around campus looking ahead to the winter recess. From the return of our middle school dance to enjoying the traditional 4th grade winter voices concert the spirit of the season is upon us!
I am reminded that in order to participate in these wonderful traditions we must remain vigilant of the viruses in our community. In mid-November Marin County Public Health announced that local healthcare providers were seeing a spike in flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases, and COVID-19. To keep our community well please help prevent the spread of RSV, flu, and COVID-19 by:
- Staying home if you are sick.
- Wearing a mask, especially in indoor public settings. A well-fitted, high-filtration mask is best.
- Getting vaccinated for both COVID-19 and flu.
- Covering your cough or sneeze with your elbow.
- Washing your hands thoroughly and frequently
Let’s all continue the positive start of this school year by working together to prevent the spread of illnesses during this joyous time of year.
Take good care!
Raquel Rose
Superintendent
rrose@kentfieldschools.org
District Announcements
When to Stay Home + Covid & Flu Shot Clinics
Winter Virus Information from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
We have been impacted with three respiratory viruses this year: COVID-19, Influenza (Flu) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). We need to be vigilant in preventing the spread of these winter viruses as we prepare for holiday gatherings.
Prevention methods include hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, masking and staying home when sick.
Caring for loved ones at home includes getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated and using medications as prescribed to reduce congestion and fever.
Contact your health care provider for medical advice and if an evaluation is necessary
Marin Public Health Letter to Caregivers: English & Spanish
- Recommendations for a safe and healthy holiday season in light of the early arrival of seasonal respiratory viruses.
COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics - Omicron Boosters & Flu Vaccines
Please reference this exposure notice for information on symptoms, communicability and prevention. (English I Spanish).
Please keep your child home if they are sick. It's not too late to get your flu vaccine. Please contact our school nurse Laurel Yrun (lyrun@kentfieldschools.org) with any questions you may have about how to navigate illness and school this year.
2022-2023 District Calendar
December Breakfast & Lunch Menu
Tuesday, December 6, 2022
- Kent Site Council meeting, 3:30-4:30 p.m., Room 11
- DELAC meeting, 5-6 p.m., Bacich Library
Wednesday, December 7, 2022
- December Walk & Roll to School Day
- Bacich ELAC meeting, 8:30-10:30 a.m., Bacich Room 7
Thursday, December 8, 2022
- 4th Grade Winter Voices, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Friday, December 9, 2022
- Kent Club Photo Day
- Redwood Drama - K, 1st, 2nd, 12:45-1:45 p.m
- 7th/8th Grade Dance, 7-9 p.m., sponsored by KSPTA
Monday, December 12, 2022
- Safety Committee meeting, 9-10 a.m.
Tuesday, December 13, 2022
- School Board meeting, 5-8 p.m., District Office
Wednesday, December 14, 2022
- Parents in Action, 8:30-10:30 a.m., Bacich Room 7
- Technology Committee meeting, 4-5 p.m.
- KIK Board meeting, 7-9 p.m., District Office
Thursday, December 15, 2022
- Kent Parents in Action, 8:30-10:30 a.m., Room 11
Friday, December 16, 2022
- Kent Countdown Court Assembly - wear silver and gold
- Noon Dismissal for Bacich and Kent, 12-1 p.m.
Winter Break: December 19-January 2. School resumes January 3
Next KSD School Board Meeting is on Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at 5 p.m.
Here is a link to where you can find the agenda once posted. Access to the meeting will be via in person or audio.
School Board Information: video recordings of meetings, community letters, minutes, trustee contacts
- All are welcome and encouraged to attend in-person or via Zoom.
- Addressing the Board
KSD Board/District Committees
- DELAC meeting, Tuesday, December 6, 5-6 p.m., Bacich Library
- Safety Committee Meeting, Monday, December 12, 9-10 a.m.
- Technology Committee meeting, Wednesday, December 14, 4-5 p.m.
- If you are interested in joining a District Committee, please submit your name here.
Bacich Bears News
Dear Bacich Families,
As we enter into the winter holiday season it is important for us to find ways to think of others. For the past many years, our fourth grade team has participated in a holiday gift drive for local youth in foster care. Each fourth grade class solicits parent volunteers to purchase holiday gifts for several children in foster care. Gifts include books, toys, clothing, and gift cards. Bacich staff also have the opportunity to participate in this gift drive and purchase gifts. I would like to acknowledge the time and effort our fourth grade teachers (Victoria Denson, Marjorie Bukowski, Katelyn Mamizuka, Hayley Moore, and Adrienne Brown) dedicate to organizing this community service project. And thank you to our parents and staff who support this project with your donations of gifts for the youth in foster care.
Each fourth grade class has a “wrapping party” to wrap the donated gifts. Our Bacich students enjoy wrapping presents and making holiday cards for children they do not know. I appreciate that the fourth grade class winter party is all about doing something kind for others.
I have been thinking about how this community service project ties in with our Character Counts curriculum. Character Counts is a social emotional learning curriculum that teaches six pillars of character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Teaching these pillars of character help to build a positive school environment and a culture of kindness.
This month we are focused on the character pillar of caring, which we will highlight during our assembly this week. This pillar includes being kind and compassionate. The Character Counts curriculum also teaches students that being able to forgive others is part of caring. Taking the time to focus on this important curriculum is essential to build a positive school environment.
With gratitude,
Maria Martin
Bacich Principal
mmartin@kentfieldschools.org
Winter Class Celebrations
It is a tradition at Bacich for classrooms to have a Winter Class Celebration prior to the winter break. Each classroom teacher will work with the Lead Room Parents to design this class celebration and determine if parent volunteers are needed. Please look for more information from your child’s teacher and Lead Room Parent(s).
Winter Voices Concert
Our Bacich Choral Concerts are back in full swing! Becky Poon, our talented and dedicated music teacher, is working on the final rehearsals with our fourth graders for their Winter Voices Concert. Our fourth graders will perform for fourth grade families on December 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m.; followed by a performance for the Bacich student body on December 9.
Walk & Roll to School Day happens this Wednesday!
Please join us Wednesday morning on December 7. Our theme is Winter Wonderland. Walking, biking, skating, scooting, parking and walking or taking the bus are all excellent ways to participate. Make sure you stop by our welcome table in front of school for a fun prize. See you there!
Clothing Donations Needed
Bacich is in need of extra clothing for students who have accidents at school and need to change. We would appreciate any donations of gently used clothing and new underwear (size 4-6) and socks.
Bacich Library
"Thanks to all the families and students who donated a book to the library during the book fair. The kindness and generosity of this district overwhelms me with gratitude. A big thank you to Erica Applestein, Lorin Bentley, Deborah Crudo and Neda Rassouli for all their hard work and long hours spent to make the book fair a huge success. Special thanks to Vicki Song for all her help in the library making sure the books get out to the students as quickly as possible!"
Warmly,
Ms. Warnick
Check out Bacich Library Book Buzz December blog to learn about winter holiday traditions in the Bacich library.
bacichlibrarybookbuzz.blogspot.com
Lear more about the library and search for books: sites.google.com/kentfieldschools.org/bacich-library
Susan Warnick
Bacich Librarian
swarnick@kentfieldschools.org
Upcoming Bacich Events
2022-2023 Bacich Bell Schedule
Wednesday, December 7:
- Walk & Roll to School Day
- Bacich ELAC, 8:30-10:30 a.m., Bacich Room 7
Thursday, December 8: 4th Grade Winter Voices, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Friday, December 9: Bacich Report Cards will be available in Aeries.
Wednesday, December 14: Parents in Action, 8:30-10:30 a.m., Bacich Room 7
Kent Falcons News
Greetings Kent Middle School Families,
Physical Education Dance Unit – Through the month of December in Kent Physical Education classes, all students will be participating in the annual dance unit. A favorite among many students and teachers alike, the dance unit provides time and space for students to practice movement, expression, teamwork, collaboration, and creativity through the learning and performance of choreographed dance routines.
Led by PE teacher Jason Gatti in 5th grade, and dance instructor Rosie Wendell in 6th through 8th grades, students will be working in groups and learning choreographed moves to a number of their favorite songs. In addition to the composed choreography, each group will design their own introductory and concluding dance sequence, and then perform their group’s dance to the rest of the class at the end of each week. Students will learn basic elements and steps of a variety of dances, and apply these steps to choreographed numbers danced to songs that they love. Contagious dancing energy abounds at our school as students learn and practice some sophisticated steps, and have a ton of fun moving and shaking with their peers and teachers. Traditionally, dancing extends well beyond the PE classrooms, with spontaneous dance routines popping up all around campus! Much appreciation to our PE team, dance instructor Rosie Wendell, and the KSPTA for supporting this important experience for our students each year!
First Trimester Report Cards – First trimester report cards will be available for students and families in Aeries starting the evening of Monday, December 12th. These report cards will highlight the most essential skills and concepts learned through the first trimester of school in each class, and will capture your child’s current level of proficiency in each area. We look forward to clear communication about your child’s progress, and to continuing to nurture maximum academic, social, and creative growth through the second trimester and beyond.
Let’s have a great week ahead!
Grant Althouse
Kent Principal
galthouse@kentfieldschools.org
7th and 8th Grade Winter Wonderland Dance
Friday, December 9, 7-9 p.m.
All 7th and 8th graders are invited to attend. Please encourage your child to attend for great music, fun company, and an exceptional party!
Dance is free of charge, sponsored by KPSTA.
Countdown Court Celebration
Friday, December 16 - wear silver and gold attire
The time-honored Kent Middle School tradition of the Countdown Court celebration continues this year!
Countdown Court is an all school assembly where we celebrate the conclusion of the calendar year with music, reflections, activity, and more! It is also the final spirit day of the year, where students are encouraged to wear their finest silver and gold sparkly attire honoring the new year ahead. We look forward to ringing in a new year at Kent with Countdown Court 2022!
Kent Basketball Practice Times
8th girls- Mondays, 3:45- 4:45 p.m.
8th boys- Mondays, 4:45- 5:45 p.m.
7th girls- Thursdays, 3:45- 4:45 p.m.
7th boys- Fridays, 3:45- 4:45 p.m.
6th girls- Wednesdays, 3:45- 4:45 p.m.
6th boys- Wednesdays, 4:45- 5:45 p.m.
The game schedule for Kent basketball is to be announced. Games start the week of January 3 or January 10.
Kent Yearbook: Orders Now Open!
Kent yearbooks are now on sale for $42.
www.yearbookordercenter.com or call 1-866-287-3096
Kent's order number is 7587.
Upcoming Dates
Tuesday, December 6: Kent Site Council meeting, 3:30-4:30 p.m., room 11
Wednesday-Friday, December 7-9: Kent Winterwonder Dance, free of charge - sponsored by KSPTA.
Monday, December 12: Kent first trimester report card available in Aeries.
Thursday, December 15: Kent Parents in Action, 8:30-10:30 a.m., room 11
Friday, December 16: Countdown Court Assembly
KIK News
4TH GRADE CONCERT - THURSDAY, DEC 8TH
KSD Families are looking forward to the first of the KIK Concert Series - Thursday’s 4th Grade Winter Voices Concert.
- The 2022-2023 KIK Concert Series is a wonderful opportunity to see what your student has been learning during the music enrichment at Bacich and Kent. All concert dates are listed in the KIK Calendar below.
- Check out the Kent Concerts dates coming up in January and February.
Thank you to our KIK Donors for ensuring that our music program remains strong.
SUPPORT KIK BUSINESS PARTNERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Chilly weather and holiday shopping is upon us! As you embark on your holiday shopping, check out KIK Business Partners who support our schools!
- If you’re shopping online, don’t forget to shop via Amazon Smile and select Kentfield Schools Foundation as your charity of choice.
There are more Promotions for our KSD families, and you’ll still be supporting businesses that support your children. Thank you!
FAMILY GIVING IS YEAR ROUND
Please Donate to Support Enrichments for Every Kid, Every Day!
How much should I donate?
Our suggested donation is $2,000 per child in the district. Some families donate more, and some families donate less. The important part is to participate at a level that is meaningful to you. Every dollar makes a direct impact on your child’s education, and will help us reach our goal.
- Here’s how to Donate - THANK YOU!
- The annual KIK $1M contribution to Bacich and Kent directly funds enrichment programs:
- Art, Music, PE, Library, Maker, Woodshop, Broadcasting and more.
Learn more about Family Giving and What KIK Funds.
We are committed to transparency and communication here at KIK. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our Family Giving Co-Chairs:
Tiffani Broce - Maggie & Griffin’s Mom - tiffaniparkerbroce@gmail.com
Noah Wheeler - Jesse & Adam’s Dad - wheelernoah@gmail.com
KIK $1M ANNUAL GOAL — UPDATE
- $1M Annual Fundraising Status : $706,836 (net) to date / $1M GOAL
- Thank you to the 274 Family Giving Donors to date who are committed to our students and the programs they love! Can we add your name to this list?
- Learn how KIK Invests in Kids
CALENDAR - CONCERTS BROUGHT TO YOU BY KIK
DEC 08 - 4th Grade Winter Voices Concert - 6:30PM
JAN 31 - 5th Grade Band & Strings Winter Concert - 7PM
FEB 01 - 6th Grade Band, Strings & Choir Winter Concert - 7PM
FEB 02 - 0 Period Band, Orchestra, & Choir Winter Concert - 7PM
MAR 02 - 3rd Grade Concert - 6:30PM
APRIL 20 - 2nd Grade Concert - 6:30PM
MAY 11 - 1st Grade Concert - 6:30PM
MAY 25 - Kindergarten Concert - 8:30AM
DINE & DONATE
ORDER EVERY TUESDAY - $50 Dine & Donate
Left Bank KIK Family Meals — 20% of proceeds go to KIK. Opt in for a weekly order reminder.
DEC 06 - TBD
CONNECT WITH KIK
For Installments or Matching Gifts, Print Donor Form in English and Spanish.
KSPTA News
Learn more at kspta.org
Next Meeting: January 23, 2023
8:30-10:30 a.m. (the first 30 mins will be a coffee social). Location is TBD
Top Tips to Support Children in Times of Uncertainty and Stress with Julie Kurtz
Watch Recording:
Passcode: NDJn8*c1
Sponsored by the Kentfield PTA
Learn concrete strategies to support young children when faced with BIG and SMALL life events such as returning from summer break, coming back to school from extended absences, divorce, loss, stressful or traumatic events (fires, COVID-19, tornadoes, flooding) or starting school for the first time. This training will provide 10 trauma-informed practices that can help children feel safe, regulate big emotions and prevent dysregulated behavior associated with events that can activate their stress response systems.
- Participants learn to describe what big life change/big life transitions are young children.
- Attendees will be able to explain the impact of big life changes/transitions on the autonomic nervous system of young children.
- Take away concrete action items or the ‘Top Tips’ to support young children with uncertainty and change.
Another opportunity to attend "Top Tips to Support Children in Times of Uncertainty and Stress with Julie Kurtz sessions
These virtual seminars are designed for parents, guardians, and caregivers of school aged youth. Sessions include 30 min for Q&A .
- December 12, 2022, 6-8 p.m. – strategies focused on supporting Elementary school aged children
- December 13, 2022, 6-8 p.m. – strategies focused on supporting Middle and High school aged children
The Zoom link will be sent in a confirmation email to each registered attendee.
Each session is from
*Sessions will be presented in English with simultaneous Spanish interpretation.
December 7, 2022, 7 p.m. PST
Let's Talk Community Discussion Series
In the second community discussion of 2022-23, we’ll discuss The Adolescent Brain - focused on adolescent brain development, how substances impact the brain, why teens get addicted quicker and how they are wired for risk taking.
Live Spanish interpretation is available.
- Learn more & register here. - Sponsored by Marin Healthy Youth Partnerships.
December 8, 2022, 6:30 p.m. PST
The Interaction between Disability and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives
- Register here - Sponsored by Marin County of Education
Stay up to date with KSPTA!
Follow kentfieldschoolspta on both Facebook and Instagram
Community News
Information, events, and news provided in our newsletter's "Community News" is offered as service to our community, and are not sponsored by the Kentfield School District. Placement does not represent an endorsement.
Film Screening
December 7, 2022, 6-8:30 p.m.
Mill Valley School District and Mill Valley Recreation are hosting a film screening of Our America: Lowballed documentary featuring Tenisha Tate-Austin and Paul Austin, Marin City residents, and Marin County community leaders, whose home was undervalued by an appraiser.
The event will start with a 30-minute catered reception to allow guests to mingle and the screening will be introduced by ABC Executive Producer Julian Glover. The event will conclude with a Q&A session with two of the documentary's subjects, Tenisha Tate-Austin and Paul Austin, along with Julian Glover.
Cocoa & Cram Homework Helpers Session
Saturday, December 10, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Get free help from local high students! Multi-Subject support for grades 3-11 pre-finals!
Free hot chocolate!
The Homework Helpers program, created and run by high school interns and the Marin County Free library, is offering a free “homework help” program for English Learners and underserved students at the Corte Madera library every Saturday from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Students are encouraged to sign up for specific time slots and communicate what they need help with. This is an excellent opportunity for students and families to get extra help, outside of school, from local high school students!
Homework Helpers Flyer in English and Spanish
Weekly Crafternoons and a once-monthly Lego Club: Thursdays 3:30 p.m. for ages 5-12.
Elks Hoop Shoot
Basketball Free-Throw Competition
December 10, 2022, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Albert J. Boro, Community Center, 50 Canal Street, San Rafael, CA 94901
Sponsored by Elks Lodge #1108
Free Rowing Clinic
U15 Boys Row Opportunity
December 12-16, 4-5 p.m.
Marin Rowing is offering a free, weeklong clinic to teach the basics of rowing for boys with a 2009 birth year. The week of instruction will culminate with team tryouts for those interested in racing competitively for the 2023 spring season.
No rowing experience necessary. Financial aid available.
Coding Classes at Bacich
Skill Samurai Intro to Coding Class
If you are looking to introduce your child to the world of coding, this is the perfect place to start. Students will learn the foundational concepts of coding while learning to build their own video games.
- Dates: 1/18, 1/25, 2/8, 2/15, 3/1, 3/8, 3/15, 3/22
- Class Time: 12:45- 1:45 p.m.
- Tuition for 8 classes is $419.
Donuts & Tee Event! Registration Opening Soon!
November 1 - December 16: Registration Open
KGS is non-profit organization - completely run by parent & community VOLUNTEERS.
- For all girls ages 5-15.
- Kentfield, Greenbrae, Ross & North Larkspur.
- Season runs from March through the end of May.
- All games are in Marin (except 15U have some in San Francisco).
- All home games are at Kent.
- Coaches are parents and community volunteers.
Crisis Text Support Line
Marin County is offering our youth another means of confidential mental health support through a crisis text line that is available 24/7.
Text MARIN to 741741 for Support that Cares.
Marin Health Hubs
Health hubs, provides free and bilingual services such as food distribution, nutrition education, health screenings, and information about community organizations. Everyone is welcome to attend the health hubs food pantry and to help us run it!
Parent & Youth.Helpline
This free helpline provides free trauma-informed, evidenced-based emotional support to parents, children and youth in any language via calls, text, live chat, and email.
- Available 7 days a week from 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
- Parents can join a Weekly Online Support Group through the website: caparentyouthhelpline.org.
- Helpline #: 855-427-2736