KSD News
Dear KSD Community,
We are in the final week of April and the sun is shining brightly as we head into the month of May. We have much to look forward to this spring. KSPTA sponsored Phenomenal Physics Day at Bacich to our Reclassification Ceremony for our language learner, California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) for grades 3rd - 8th, and end-of-year celebrations, including 8th grade graduation. Let’s continue to join forces in working together in support of each and every Bacich Bear and Kent Falcon!
Raquel Rose
Superintendent
rrose@kentfieldschools.org
Does your child walk or ride to school – if so we need your support and attention to anticipated changes to the TAM Crossing Guards supporting our KSD students getting to and from school safely.
The TAM Board will be considering the reduction of up to three (3) crossing guards in the KSD jurisdiction based on recommended crossing guard location selection, which is reviewed and supported by the Marin Public Works Association (MPWA). The three (3) crossing guards proposed to be eliminated are in the following locations:
- Sir Francis Drake Blvd. and Laurel Grove Ave (east)
- Sir Francis Drake Blvd. and Bon Air Road
- Bon Air Road and South Eliseo Drive
REMINDER - Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM) Proposed Crossing Guards Adjustments Board Meeting, April 27 at 6 p.m.
This shift will significantly impact the safety and well-being of our KSD students.
The TAM Board meeting is this Thursday, April 27th at 6 p.m. Participation in the meeting can be in person in Room 330 at the Marin County Civic Center and/or virtually via Zoom (see access information below).
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88155449529?pwd=eS9NOTJUMm9kT1lTekZZNXF0QXRVdz09
Webinar ID: 881 5544 9529 | Passcode: 389590
Teleconference: Members of the public wishing to participate via teleconference, can do so by dialing in to the following number at 6:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting: +1 669 900 6833; Access Code: 881 5544 9529; Password: 389590
National Bike to School Day: May 3!
Please encourage your student to BIKE, WALK, SKATE, or SCOOTER to school. If you live FAR away, consider Parking and Walking. Active travel is great exercise, it reduces traffic and pollution and it’s FUN! All who walk or roll will be entered into a raffle to win Tommy Breeze hats or Hydroflask water bottles. They will also receive a delicious organic energy bar from JAMBAR!
District Announcements
Annually school districts across the nation begin their fall planning for the subsequent year as early as January of the current school year. Planning begins at this time to address education code parameters related to employment and budget development. The KSD monitors student enrollment to guide decisions about the number of classrooms for the subsequent year and engages in various feedback loops to be as informed as possible when making programmatic plans. Our main goal is to maintain student-to-staff ratios that are in alignment with state requirements, KSD Board Policy, our collective bargaining agreement, and ultimately in the best interest of our student population.
- Please see this Frequently Asked Questions resource offering more details about Fall Planning.
Emergency Preparedness
To keep you updated on our emergency preparedness work in KSD, we're sharing information about our student release process known as Tag & Ticket. This process is used in the event of an emergency requiring a school-wide evacuation, and is designed to reconnect students and authorized adults through a smooth, quick, and safe process. Look for a separate message coming later this week about Tag & Ticket!
Beginning in the fall of 2023, the KSD will transition from locally funding the Universal Meal Program to participating in the National School Lunch Program through a collaborative partnership with other local school districts. This shift will provide the KSD fiscal relief through the state and federal reimbursement program and may lead to changes in daily operations and program vendors. See here for more information about the California Universal Meal Program. Additional information will be forthcoming.
Budget Update
As the KSD Budget evolves, we want to ensure our community stays informed of our current fiscal status. Please see this most recent slide deck outlining the KSD budget as of the Second Interim Report. This fiscal information will be a foundation to support the KSD Budget Development for the 2023-2024 school year.
New Street Lighting to be Installed along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard
Work is being done to revise street lighting on the median islands along one mile of Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, between Manor Road in Kentfield and Eliseo Drive in Greenbrae. Overseen by the Marin County Department of Public Works (DPW), the lighting update project will address street lighting that was installed during the Upgrade the Drake project, completed in November 2021, replacing a selection of lighting poles with shorter, decorative poles and dimmer fixtures.
The work is scheduled to take about three weeks to complete, weather permitting. Once the project is finished, 20 street light poles will have been removed and replaced with 28 new light poles that are shorter and have a more decorative style.
Spring Ordering Now Available
The KSD Spring lunch menu is available now through June 16, 2023. The menu will remain the same for the last two and a half months of school to streamline the ordering process for parents/guardians. We continue to request families to pre-order their child/ren’s lunch to ensure we have the most accurate count of school lunches. Please sign up for lunch here or contact info@deesorganic.com for support with ordering your child/ren's meal. If your child/ren has any food allergies, please report them to heather@deesorganic.com.
Save the Date!
KSD Reclassification Ceremony: May 18, 2023, 6-7:30 p.m., Bacich Community Center
Join us to celebrate our students' amazing ability to speak two (or more!) languages and
highlight them as now being reclassified as English Proficient in our district.
View flyer in English, Spanish, Russian, Haitian Creole, and Japanese.
Summer Camp Tips
Resources and tips on choosing a summer camp experience for your children from Ivette Villarreal, Kentfield School District Community Family Liaison.
Download a PDF of the Board-approved 2023-2024 District Calendar.
Breakfast & Lunch Menu
Tuesday, April 25, 2023
- Finance Committee meeting, 4-5 p.m., agenda
Wednesday, April 26, 2023
- Bacich Parents in Action, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Room 7
- Communication Committee meeting, 4-5 p.m.
- Kent ELAC meeting, 4:45-6 p.m., Kent Library
- KSPTA Parent Ed Event – Helping Kids Navigate Friendship Ups and Downs with Resilience, 6:30 p.m., Zoom
Friday, April 28, 2023
- 5th/6th Game Night hosted by KSPTA, 6-8 p.m.
- Kent Area Track Meeting, College of Marin
- KSPTA Equity, Inclusion & Belonging meeting #3, 8:30-9:45 a.m., Kent Library
Monday, May 1, 2023
- 8th Grade Boys Volleyball vs Miller Creek, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
- Family Partners meeting, 9-10 a.m.
- Kent Site Council meeting, 3:30-4:30 p.m., Kent Room 11
- DELAC meeting, 5-6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, May 3, 2023
- National Walk & Roll to School Day
- Bacich Parents in Action, Bacich Room 7, 8:30-10:30 a.m.
Thursday, May 4, 2023
- Kent Parents In Action, 8:30-10 a.m., Kent Room 11
Friday, May 5, 2023
- Marin County Championship Track Meet, College of Marin
Saturday, May 6, 2023
- School of Rock, KIK Spring Auction Event, Party at Bimbo’s 365 featuring Notorious, tickets
Next Regular KSD School Board Meeting is on Tuesday, May 9, 2023 at 5 p.m.
Here is a link to where you can find the agenda once posted. Access to the meeting will be in person or via 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
- Finance Committee meeting, Tuesday, April 25, 2023, 4-5 p.m., agenda
- Communication Committee meeting: Wednesday, April 26, 2023, 4-5 p.m.
- DELAC meeting: Tuesday, May 2, 2023, 5-6:30 p.m.
COVID Update
The latest COVID-19 subvariant, XXB.1.16, is increasing in the U.S. according to estimates from the CDC. It has been most documented in India but has been found in 29 countries, according to the WHO. This new subvariant is producing a new symptom: conjunctivitis (pink eye), especially in children.
MCPH is recommending COVID-19 testing for students who present with pink eye. Guidance will be updated to reflect this change.
California Department of Public Health encourages all students and staff to test for COVID-19 IF they feel sick, AFTER exposure, travel, or large gatherings, and BEFORE events or visiting high-risk people.
Please know that our school offices have COVID tests available if needed. Thank you for your support.
Please reference this exposure notice for symptoms, communicability, and prevention information. (English I Spanish).
Please keep your child home if they are sick. Please contact our school nurse Laurel Yrun (lyrun@kentfieldschools.org), with any questions about navigating illness and school this year.
Bacich Bears News
Dear Bacich Families,
I hope you enjoyed the beautiful weather this past weekend. We had the perfect weather on Friday for our Bacich Earth Day celebration. See below for more information about this fantastic day.
Earth Day Celebration
What an amazing Earth Day celebration we enjoyed at Bacich. Thank you to all of the fabulous parent volunteers who made this day possible for our students. We celebrated Earth Day with some amazing activities out on the blacktop. The students learned how a solar oven works, pedaled a bike to mix a smoothie, went on a scavenger hunt, sorted and picked up trash, painted rocks, planted seeds, and much more. The atmosphere was very festive as we honored our precious earth and thought about ways we can take care of our environment!
Second Grade Concert
I know that all who were in attendance will agree that the second graders did an excellent job during their concert performance on Thursday evening! These grade-level concerts are such a delightful way to showcase the hard work the students put into their weekly chorus class with Mrs. Poon. The lineup of songs included some old Bacich favorites as well as some newer pieces that reflect our values of inclusion and belonging.
Lunch Recess - New Soccer Goals
Thanks to the 2021-2022 eighth grade class for their generous gift that was presented to me last June. With these funds, we recently purchased portable soccer goals for students to use during lunch recess. The goals are easy to set up and take down and students reported that these goals were a great addition to our lunch recess options.
Lunch Recess - New Dance Club
PE teacher, Celeste Perez, has agreed to lead a dance club on Fridays. This replaces the “dance party” that I was facilitating. We decided that it would be great for students to have the opportunity to learn some dances with Mrs. Perez as well as have some time for “free dance.” The dance club is open during the first/second grade lunch recess and the third/fourth lunch recess. We hope to see more students participate in this new and improved format!
Lunch Recess - Existing Clubs & Activities
I wanted to remind parents and guardians that we also have a Lego/Game Room open on Mondays and Fridays for first through fourth graders during lunch recess. Students are able to drop by or spend the entire recess building Legos and/or playing board games with peers. Thank you to fourth grade teacher, Mrs. Denson and first grade teacher, Mrs. Fanning for opening their classrooms for Lego/Game Room.
Students also continue to enjoy Art Exploration with Ms. Holly on Tuesdays and Thursdays during lunch recess. Ms. Holly offers a variety of activities in each session.
The school library is also open during most lunch recesses. Students can read a book, work on a puzzle with friends, and draw. Visiting the library during recess offers students a quieter space to enjoy.
Schafer Games with Mr. Schafer is still a Bacich favorite for many students during recess!
We continue to explore new activities for students and are open to new ideas. Recently a student suggested an environmental club and we are working on getting that going.
KSPTA Sponsored Phenomenal Physics Day - April 25
We are excited to welcome the Lawrence Hall of Science to Bacich on Tuesday, April 25. Students will visit the Community Center with their grade-level peers to engage in hands-on activities during this science-maker fair. Thank you to the KSPTA for bringing this amazing program to us this week! And thanks in advance to all of the parent volunteers who will be on hand to help facilitate these activities for our students.
I hope you enjoy the week ahead!
With gratitude,
Maria Martin
Bacich Principal
mmartin@kentfieldschools.org
Family Math Nights
The Marin County Office of Education is hosting “Family Math Nights” for parents and caregivers of children, ages birth to 6 years. The virtual sessions are facilitated by Lisa Kaplan Shaanan from Early Education Equity. Spanish translation provided. The Zoom link will be emailed to you the day before the session.
Please join us on one or more of the following sessions on Thursdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Registration Link
- May 11
- June 8
La Oficina de Educación del Condado de Marin está organizando "Noches Familiares de Matemáticas" para padres y cuidadores de niños, desde el nacimiento hasta los 6 años. Las sesiones virtuales son facilitadas por Lisa Kaplan Shaanan de Early Education Equity. Se ofrece traducción al español. El enlace de Zoom se le enviará por correo electrónico el día antes de la sesión.
Únase a nosotros en una o más de las siguientes sesiones los jueves de 6:30 p. m. a 7:30 p.m. Enlace de registro
- 11 de mayo
- 8 de junio
TK / Kindergarten Registration Now Open
Universal Transition Kindergarten Information Session Slides - Spanish and English
- Incoming Kindergarten students will need to turn 5 years of age by September 1, 2023.
- Incoming Universal Transitional Kindergarten students will need to turn 5 years of age between September 2, 2023 and April 2, 2024.
Bacich Library
Celebrate National Poetry Month and Multicultural Communications Month with great book selections listed in the April edition of the Bacich Library Book Buzz Blog.
bacichlibrarybookbuzz.blogspot.com
Learn 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, April 26, 2023: Bacich Parents in Action, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Room 7
Wednesday, May 3, 2023: Bacich Parents in Action, Bacich Room 7, 8:30-10:30 a.m
Kent Falcons News
Dear Kent Middle School Families,
The final week of April is upon us, and with it come a number of traditional springtime experiences for our students and staff!
Track Meet - Kent Falcons have been hard at work in Physical Education class learning and practicing a variety of track and field events in preparation for two competitive opportunities coming up this spring. The track and field unit teaches students the history, fundamentals, and important techniques for a number of standard track and field events during PE class. Teachers have skillfully taught our students three field events (Long Jump, Shot Put, and High Jump) and 5 track events (100M, 200M, 400M, 600M, and 1200M). Across the school day, the campus is buzzing with students talking about their favorite events, comparing times, and anticipating their next opportunity to practice.
These experiences in PE class lead to two scheduled track meets, the Area 3 Meet between schools in this region of Marin, as well as the County Championship, meet for strong performers at the Area 3 meet. At these meets, students will compete against some of the best student-athletes in Marin County. The Area 3 meet is scheduled for this Friday, April 28 and the county championship meet is the following Friday, May 5, both at the College of Marin Track next door to Kent! Good luck Falcons!
Kent Karaoke Competition - The Kent Karaoke competition is a fun singing competition that all Kent students are invited to join this spring. Each participant has selected a song to sing as well as a backing track of music to sing along to, and students have been practicing for weeks under the guidance of our Kent music director, Mr. Michael Martinez. Students then sing in weekly competitions on Thursdays in the MP Room, and two winning students get to perform their song at the end-of-year Pops Concert and end-of-year evening concert. Kent Karaoke Competition round 1 competitors sang to a packed MP Room of enthusiastic and supportive peers last Thursday during lunch, with round 2 coming up this week! We love the Kent Karaoke Competition and the courageous students who sing their hearts out in front of their peers! Encourage your child to listen in on Thursdays at lunch!
CAASPP Testing - CAASPP testing begins at Kent next week, and we want to support your child to be comfortable and confident while showing us what they know and are able to do on these important standardized tests. Please see the notes below to help anticipate what to expect with CAASPP testing at Kent starting next week, and to help prepare your child for successful test sessions.
- Linked here is the testing schedule for Kent. Please note that students will be taking the assessment in their regularly scheduled English classes the week of May 1st, and their regularly scheduled math classes the week of May 8.
- The entire CAASPP assessment is computer-based, and students will be taking the assessment with their school-issued Chromebook (6th-8th grades) and their classroom Chromebook (5th grades). Students must come to school with a fully charged Chromebook each school day during CAASPP testing.
- All parts of the CAASPP test are untimed, and students will be provided with as much time as they need to complete the assessment. If students do not finish during the time allotted, we will have make-up sessions offered the week of May 15.
- During Advisory this week, we will be reviewing the testing schedule and discussing how to set up for success on the CAASPP this year at Kent. We will also be watching this video that explains how to access universal tools designed to help students while they are taking the assessment.
- Testing sessions will be occurring during regularly scheduled English and math classes, meaning that testing time will happen at different times each day for your child depending on the day of the week. Please ensure that your child gets a good night’s sleep each night, eats a nutritious breakfast, and has a plan for access to nutritious food during the school day.
- 5th and 8th graders will be taking the California Science Test (CAST) the week of May 22, in Nest class in 5th grade and in science class in 8th grade. The CAST is presented in an identical format to the CAASPP.
If you have any questions about your child’s testing experience or if you need to exempt your child from CAASPP testing this year, please contact our school site testing coordinator and assistant principal, Wendy Holmes (wholmes@kentfieldschools.org) or me (galthouse@kentfieldschools.org). We look forward to supporting our Falcons in their successful completion of their 2023 CAASPP assessment.
Kent Site Council - As you may be aware, our Kent School Site Council is a planning and decision-making body made up of Kent staff, parents, and students. During our monthly meetings, we discuss current events at our school, as well as big-picture goals and initiatives that impact our community. It is an engaged group of stakeholders that encourage positive change through their questioning, discussion, and collaboration. Two parent seats on the Kent Site Council are open for the 2023-2024 school year, and I invite any interested incoming 5th or 6th grade parent/guardian to submit your name for consideration for one of these three-year terms. The Site Council meets on the first Tuesday of the month from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. on the Kent campus. If you are interested in serving on our Kent School Site Council, please email site council members Tory Grigg (tory.grigg@gmail.com) and Megan Hirschbein (mchirschbein@gmail.com) by next Friday, May 5. All applicants are invited to share a short summary of their interests and qualifications to serve on this committee. My sincere appreciation to current and future site council members for their many contributions to our school!
Let’s have a fantastic week ahead at Kent!
Grant Althouse
Kent Principal
galthouse@kentfieldschools.org
Wednesday, May 3rd, is National Bike to School Day!
The Kent Eco-Action Club is celebrating National Bike To School Day on Wednesday, May 3! The Kent Eco-Action students will be handing out raffle tickets to win one of two Tommy Breeze hats, or one of two Hydroflask water bottles. We’ll also have healthy JAMBARS to give to students. Posters will go up around campus this week and a broadcast announcement will go out next week.
Fall 2023 Cheerleading Tryouts
Rising 9th-12th graders.
April 26, 27, and 28; 4-6 p.m., Redwood Small Gym
Learn more here and view flyer.
Upcoming Dates
Wednesday, April 26, 2023: Kent ELAC meeting, 4:45-6 p.m., Kent Library
Friday, April 28, 2023: 5th/6th Game Night hosted by KSPTA, 6-8 p.m.
Tuesday, May 2, 2023: Kent Site Council meeting, 3:30-4:30 p.m., Kent Room 11
Thursday, May 4, 2023: Kent Parents In Action meeting, Kent Room 11, 8:30-10 a.m.
KIK News
SCHOOL OF ROCK SPRING EVENT & LIVE AUCTION — TICKETS SELLING FAST!
Kentfield Schools Foundation, Kentfield Invests in Kids (KIK), proudly presents:
- Dinner, Dancing, Live Auction*
- Saturday, May 6, 2023 - 6PM - 11PM
- RESERVED TABLES GOING FAST!
- Bimbo’s 365 Club, San Francisco
- Round trip transportation included
- Benefiting our Kentfield Schools and Kids
Are you Ready to Rock?! Join us for our Spring Event and Live Auction and let’s have a Rockin’ good time!
*separate Online Spring Auction 4/27-5/4, no ticket needed
SPRING ONLINE AUCTION SNEAK PEEK
Here is a preview of some of the 250 Online Auction items, live on April 27. No event ticket needed to bid on the Online Auction.
- Enjoy a beautiful day in wine country with a private food and wine experience at Opus One Winery
- Snap up a round of golf at the magnificent Meadow Club
- Relive your high school days and secure tickets to the Homecoming Party hosted by Kentfield District Families
- Treat yourself and your friends to a Clare V. shopping party – wine and light bites included
- Snag a week of one of Marin’s favorite summer camps courtesy of Steve and Kate’s
- Show off your basketball skills and score a ticket to the All Star Basketball Shooting Competition; winner gets bottomless pints at the Peso afterparty
- Support local business by scooping up a gift certificate to community favorites like Perry’s and Stapleton School of Performing Arts
- Bid on many items including local favorites, unique experiences, wines and much more available April 27 - May 4!
LIVE AUCTION PREVIEW | MAY 6 - BIMBO’S 365 CLUB
5 NIGHTS IN A FABULOUS TAHOE LUXURY HOUSE
Located 3 minutes from the beach and Garwoods, this wonderful luxury home features 5 bedrooms and comfortably sleeps 9-13. Enjoy the hot tub, outdoor bar and grill plus an expansive flat lawn with a zip line and play structure. Park in the 2-car garage and if you need baby gear, there is plenty of it on site. Generously donated by a Kentfield School District Family. Retail value is $8,000.
SPECIAL THANKS TO PREMIER AUCTION SPONSORS
Woodlands Market - is an invaluable KIK business partner and, as our upscale neighborhood market, they offer delicious deli sandwiches, gourmet food, organic produce and ready-made eats and spirits.
Allison Fortini Crawford, Sotheby’s Int’l Realty - is an award winning, top producing real estate professional serving both San Francisco and Marin County. She has earned a reputation for tactical negotiating, trust and an astute attention to detail, and she has the knowledge, experience, skill, and passion to bring you and your family home.
OWN Marin - Marin County’s #1 real estate team since 2015, Barr Haney, Whitney Potter, and their team have helped over 650 clients achieve their goals. Ranked #1 in Kentfield, OWN Marin makes buying or selling a home easy—Let’s go get your home.
THANK YOU TO ALL AUCTION SPONSORS!
Woodlands Market
Allison Fortini Crawford, Sotheby’s Int’l Realty
OWN Marin
Boulevard Real Estate, Bitsa Freeman |
Carey Hagglund Condy Team | Luxury Marin Homes
Left Bank | Fuel 24:7 / Shineology | Marin Ortho | MacRostie Winery & Vineyards | Ben Shemano Jewelry | Colleen Fitzpatrick | Golden Gate | Sotheby's International Realty | Bowman Real Estate Group | Eye Institute of Marin | Mynsberge, Ruggles & Yang Oral Surgery | Deb Stevens Marin Living Homes | Dr. Vicki Garfola D.C. | Marin Family Chiropractic | Berg | Thakral Family
KIK $1M ANNUAL GOAL — UPDATE
We have reached over 85% of our annual $1M fundraising goal. Thank you to all of the families who have donated so far this school year. If you have not donated yet, we are counting on your support to reach our goal. Our annual $1M commitment goes directly into the school district's budget to fund crucial programs for our kids (PE, Art, Music, Library, Drama, and more). Let's KIK this together!
- DONATE NOW
- How much should I donate?
- $1M Annual Fundraising Status : $890,780 (net) to date / $1M GOAL
- Thank you to the 347 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
KIK CALENDAR
SPRING AUCTION
APR 27 - MAY 4 - KIK School of Rock Online Auction
MAY 6 - Save the Date - School of Rock
KIK Spring Auction Event, Party at Bimbo’s 365 featuring Notorious
CONCERTS Brought to You by KIK
MAY 11 - 1st Grade Family Concert - 6:30PM
MAY 25 - Kindergarten Family 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.
APR 25 - Coq au Vin, Linguine, Salad Verte, & Broccoli
CONNECT WITH KIK
Love us and Follow us! Get the latest KIK updates!
For Installments or Matching Gifts, Print Donor Form in English and Spanish.
KSPTA News
Learn more at kspta.org
Next Meeting: May 12, 2023, 8:30-10:30 a.m., Location TBD (coffee social during the first 15 minutes)
Join the KSPTA for a cup of coffee while discussing important topics that affect our school community. This is a great opportunity to get relevant updates and connect with other parents. Everyone is welcome!
KSPTA Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging Meeting
Friday, April 28, 8:30-9:45 a.m.,agenda, Kent Library
Tenisha Tate-Austin will be leading a discussion: Leveraging your Leadership, a preview. This is a sampling of a larger-scale series of workshops included in a comprehensive offering from Tenisha's diversity, equity and inclusion consulting firm, Critical Friends. It will be an engaging and highly informative meeting. Spanish translation will be provided by parent volunteer, Karina Hernandez (thank you Karina!!).
Tenisha Tate-Austin has a long-standing career as a Marin County educator and administrator. In recent years, Tenisha was the Assistant Principal at Hall Middle School, and Principal of Miller Creek Middle School. She was also an Assistant Principal at Bayside/Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Academy in Marin City and at Tamalpais High School. Tenisha has since founded and is the CEO of diversity, equity and inclusion consulting firm, Critical Friends. In addition to the many achievements that Tenisha achieved in her career, she has kept her passion for educational equity at the core of all her efforts. The KSPTA is thrilled to host Tenisha, and to learn and engage in how we can be critical friends, as well as leverage our leadership in the parent/caregiver community in the KSD.
Tenisha and her family were the featured family in the documentary: Our America, Lowballed. Hopefully there will continue to be opportunities to attend screenings, followed by Q&A sessions with Tenisha and her husband, Paul. It is a very compelling and highly informative documentary that I personally cannot express more enthusiasm and encouragement to view at home with your families. The Austins are tirelessly continuing their advocacy for equity in the housing appraisal industry, including introducing Vice President Kamala Harris in the presentation of the White House's housing equity initiative, Property Appraisal and Valuation Equity (PAVE) (VIDEO here, Tenisha appears at minute 8).
Join the KSPTA on Thursday, April 27 from 7-9 p.m. at International Orange in the Marin Country Mart for an evening of boutique shopping from local vendors, light bites and refreshments, mini massages, and raffle prizes!
Proceeds will benefit the KSPTA.
Buy tickets now here!
Purchase raffle tickets ahead of this event for a chance to win fabulous prizes from the following vendors: Hot Yoga Republic, Mighty Pilates, IO (mini massages and facials), Rothy’s, Dollface, MC23, and XOXO.
Buy raffle tickets here
View flyer for more information.
Save the Date! 5th and 6th Grade Games Night!
The KSPTA is excited to host 5th & 6th Grade Games Night on Friday, April 28 from 6 to 8 pm in the Kent MP Room.
Free admission includes 1 free raffle ticket.
Students will RSVP during lunch in the upcoming weeks.
Pizza, Snacks & Drinks Included
Exciting Games and Contests
Raffle tickets for $3 each (max. 5 tickets/ student) will be on sale at lunch!
Chance to win Apple Air Pod Pros, Bluetooth speakers, Comfys, Movie Tickets, Gift Cards, and More….
One of the most memorable nights for kids at Kent. Don’t miss out!
This event is for students only (*except parent volunteers).
6-7 p.m.: Carnival games
7-8 p.m.: MC-led stage contests
Questions or want to volunteer to help at the event? See the Sign Up Genius link below or contact Erica Bonney (ericasmithbonney@gmail.com) or Whitney Blickman (wermercer@gmail.com)
Screenagers Under the Influence: Addressing Vaping, Drugs and Alcohol in the Digital Age
Tuesday, April 25 at 7 p.m., San Rafael Film Center
Hosted by local Marin resident, Lisa Tabb, and the Tam Union High School District Wellness Center. Screenagers was filmed in our backyard and features a number of Marin programs including Raising the Bar.
- Learn more at cfieducation.cafilm.org/teen-wellness/
Helping Kids Navigate Friendship Ups and Downs with Resilience
April 26, 2023, 6:30 p.m.
Zoom Link: https://kentfieldschools.zoom.us/j/84269288013?pwd=K1lBZGN1a2VpdkpUa1plVkZqSk81UT09
Meeting ID: 842 6928 8013
Passcode: 097197
Phyllis L. Fagell, LCPC is a school counselor at Sheridan School in Washington, D.C., a therapist who works with kids and families in private practice at The Chrysalis Group in Bethesda, Maryland, and an author and journalist. She's the author of the bestselling books Middle School Matters and Middle School Superpowers and a frequent contributor to The Washington Post. She also freelances for publications including Psychology Today, CNN, Working Mother, U.S. News & World Report and Your Teen, and her ideas have been shared in outlets including The New York Times,The Atlantic, The New Yorker, Edutopia, Mindshift, and NPR. Phyllis speaks at schools and organizations nationally and internationally on a broad range of topics related to counseling, education, and parenting. She lives in Bethesda, Maryland, with her husband and three children.
Learn more about Phyllis L. Fagell, LCPC atphyllisfagell.com.
Let's Talk Series: Mental Health & Underage Substance Use
May 3, 2023, 7 p.m. PST
Let's Talk Community Discussion Series
- Learn more & register here - Sponsored by Marin Healthy Youth Partnerships.
The last Let's Talk Discussion on Mental Health and Underage Substance Use features Dr. Emily Tejani, a guest expert who trained at the Yale University Department of Psychiatry and board certified in three medical specialties: child & adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, and addiction medicine. Student speakers include Sophia DeMoe, a sophomore at Novato High School and MHYP intern, and Leo del la Huelga, a sophomore at Tamalpais High School and MHYP intern.
Live Spanish translation will be available.
Real Talk Matters: Fighting Fentanyl and Its Impact on Mental Health
- May 9, 2023, 4 p.m., Zoom
- Live Spanish interpretation
Join us for a discussion on the connections between substance use and mental health, and raise awareness for both as we celebrate May Mental Health Month and National Fentanyl Awareness Day. For questions, contact: info@odfreemarin.org.
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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.
Attention Washington D.C./Williamsburg Parent Meeting - Meeting Date Change!
DC Trip 2024 Parent Meeting- the DC Parent meeting is being switched from Thursday, 4/27 to Thursday, 5/4 from 6:30-7:30 in the MP room. Please note this change if you plan to attend! We will discuss a possible itinerary and answer any questions that you may have!
Outlandish!
Queer LifeSpace, a mental health nonprofit in the Castro neighborhood of San Francisco, is launching a new program called Outlandish! that aims to bring LGBTQIA+ youth out into nature for day-long hikes and other activities. The participants, accompanied by qualified adults, will be immersed in the natural world, where they can learn about themselves and the complex ecosystems around them.
We serve youth ages 13-18, and our trips are free to a low-cost sliding scale for our adventures to be accessible for everyone!
The next trip is on May 13 to the Muir Woods for 16-18-year-olds to participate in their Community Science Program and hike through the forest.
View flyer and find out more about our program at www.queerlifespace.org/outlandish.
Free Family Dance
How Do You Dance? Free Family Dance with Luna Dance Institute
Families and their young children join Luna Dance virtually for some fun and joyful movement activities.
- Saturdays, 9:30-10:15 a.m. on May 6, and June 3
- Spanish translation available
- Registration Link: forms.gle/yB73bG2ywRgsLFA59. A Zoom link will be sent out prior to the event.
¿Cómo bailas? Baile Familiar Gratis con Luna Dance Institute
Las familias y sus niños pequeños se unen virtualmente a Luna Dance para disfrutar de algunas actividades de movimiento divertidas y alegres.
- Sábados, 9:30-10:15 a.m. el 6 de mayo y 3 de junio
- Traducción al español disponible
- Enlace de registro: forms.gle/yB73bG2ywRgsLFA59. Enlace de zoom enviado por correo electrónico antes del evento.
Larkspur Library Touch Trucks Event
Dance-A-Thon Supporting Marin's Foster Youth
Saturday, May 13, 2023, 4-6 p.m.
Every year, from Cloverdale to Corte Madera, over 3,500 children have open cases in the dependency system and dozens of families are impacted by trauma associated with abuse and neglect.
The Marin Foster Care Association's 5th Annual Dance-a-thon, raises awareness for two very important programs necessary to support Marin, Sonoma and Solano County’s Foster Youth.
Our Opportunity Project & Say Yes Fund make it possible for the MFCA to fund services for a particular foster child's physical, mental or emotional well-being as well as offset or cover the cost of obstacles to saying “Yes” to a foster child.
This dance party is a great way to teach our young children all about volunteering, showing up for their friends in need and doing it by having a fun time.
Marin Auditions: San Francisco Boys Chorus
The San Francisco Boys Chorus is announcing 2023-2024 season auditions!
Saturday, May 13, 2023
Audition & Rehearsal Location: St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 1123 Court Street, San Rafael
Rehearsals occur after school, usually between 4-7 p.m. The SFBC teaches boys with unchanged voices how to sing, read music, and perform. Our boys perform with the San Francisco Symphony and the San Francisco Opera and go on tours domestically and internationally.
View flyer and sign up for the May 13 audition or more information: www.sfbc.org/ auditions.
Summer Camps at the Charles Schulz Museum
Have questions about your child’s learning, development, or behavior?
Help Me Grow Marin connects parents, caregivers, and providers with information and resources about early childhood development.
Families can learn about community resources and tools to support your child’s development or family's needs. Whether it be assessing your child’s development, helping to apply for health insurance, or helping with finding a food bank, parenting class, information on child development, or low-cost medical clinic, we are here to help!
- View flyer in English and Spanish.
- Learn more at helpmegrowmarin.org.
Opportunities
Homework Helpers: Multi-subject support for grades 3-10.
Drop in for FREE help from local high school students! Every Saturday at the Corte Madera Library from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Please visit this link to sign up for when and what you need help with!
Homework Helpers: Multi-temas de support para grados 3-10.
¡Entra para recibir ayuda GRATIS de estudiantes secundarios locales! Cada Sábado en la biblioteca Corte Madera de 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Por favor visita este enlace para registrarse paracuando y para qué necesita ayuda.
Weekly Crafternoons and a once-monthly Lego Club: Thursdays 3:30 p.m. for ages 5-12.
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