SECOND QUARTER NEWSLETTER
December, January & February
Armenta Learning Academy
December 1, 2015
Give the Gift of Learning By Julie M. Armenta, can be used to aid spelling, Educational Specialist, M.A. reading, vocabulary, and What better way to give a gift grammar. Kids love the fun which enhances learning than colors. I recommend purchasing with some of my favorite two sets of letters for use in educational toys? longer sentences. Another fun Leap Frog Products– My favorite reading and magnet related toy educational toys! The Leap Pad is the Magnetic ABC Book ($14.99). I highly recommend ($59.99) is an award-winning product that introduces children checking it out. to the magic of books, money, Books in general make populations, music, capitals, and Happy Holidays much more. This company also makes talking globes to increase geographical awareness, and many other games. Leap Frog has a variety of learning materials that reach the visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners. Another of their wonderful products, the Turbo Twist ($39.99), builds vocabulary and math skills. Science & Excitement– There’s wonderful gifts. I personally love the Geo Safari Talking books on tape, books that Microscope ($35.99) that involve music, and ones with introduces children to the bright illustrations and pictures. amazing world of insects and For the younger children, popspiders with an easy to use talking microscope. There are so up books are a wonderful idea. many science kits out there, that Next time you’re at the it was difficult to pick a favorite. bookstore, take a look at The Tin Forest ($15.99). It’s a book Some common kits include full of rich and detailed Geography, General Science, illustrations, lyrical text, and Volcanoes, Geology, Problem empowering messages. I’m Solving, and more. Try the certain that someone on your Mystery Rock ($24.99) and shopping list would benefit from unearth four real gemstones such a book. including a genuine emerald, three prehistoric fossils, and Q & A– I highly recommend much more. encyclopedias, children’s dictionaries, and thesauruses Word Wonders– Read Spin ($13.00) magnetic letters are one with pictures. Books of this nature are not only informative, of my favorite vocabulary but interesting. Reference enhancing toys. These letters
books like Question & Answer Library ($39.99) can be on specific topics such as the United States of America or nature. Perhaps one of the most enjoyable Q&A toys is the Brain Quest ($10.95) series. Each deck comes with over a 1,000 cards with questions and answers drawn right out of school materials. The series covers everything from math and science to English and history, and many more subjects. They make their card decks for all grades Pre-K through 8th. That way you can play with your friends, quiz your parents, or test yourself. Electronics & More– Word Warp ($24.95) reinforces spelling skills with an entertaining ‘twist.’ Quickly turn each spherical knob to the correct letter, press the button, and beat the clock! As the game progresses, it gets faster and crazier – spelling has never been so much fun! This game is appropriate for ages 8 and up. For more word practice for the younger children, try the Phonics Firefly ($39.95). Children learn the alphabet, letter sounds, and over 500 three-letter words! This is a musical and colorful light-up keyboard game. Through interactive learning toys, children build their phonics, reading, and spelling skills, and confidence. If you’re a little worded-out, why not try some math for a (Continued on page 2)
Reminder The Academy will be closed for Winter Recess December 21st through January 1st. School resumes Monday, January 4th.
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Special points of interest: December is National Drunk Driving Prevention Month Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day December 7 Human Rights Day - December 10 Winter Recess Monday December 21 - Friday January 1 Happy New Year - January 1 January is National Mentoring Month Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day January 18 February is Library Lovers Month Lincoln’s Day - February 12 Presidents’ Day - February 15 Give the Gift of Learning Student of the Quarter Community Events
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Success Stories
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New Learning Options
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Back to School Photos
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Armenta Events & Programs
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(Continued from page 1) Give the Gift of Learning
change of pace? Numbers come alive with Math Shark ($39.95). Children will want to practice their math on this hand held toy that plays more like a video game than a math quiz. Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, or percentages are just a few of the topics covered by this math-smart game. It is even a fully functional calculator. There are eight skill levels to choose from, so pick the one that best suits your personal mathematical talents. Keep in mind computer games too! Group Learning– To spice up the classroom or to make a long car ride a bit more interesting try a multi-player game like Eggspert ($49.95). Teams or players test their knowledge on such topics as math, science, spelling, and history. Two different game modes let you either play the “Jeopardy” mode or the “Wheel of Fortune” mode. This game involves bright colors, flashing lights, and out loud questions or activities. This is a wonderful educational gift – I’d be excited to find it under my own Christmas tree. Back to Basics – Sidewalk Chalk (no more than a few dollars at the local drug or toy store) is a great way for your children to have fun while practicing spelling and math. How often is it that a Page 2
child’s workspace is the entire driveway? Make some lemonade or hot chocolate and stake out a clean piece of sidewalk. Try studying for vocabulary and spelling tests or testing your multiplication tables this way. It’s fun, a wonderful learning experience, and a great time for parent-child bonding. Another variation, but on a smaller scale, would be personal chalkboards or white boards and dry erase markers. These are wonderful study tools that encourage students to be creative in their learning processes. This definitely reaches out to the visual learners. The colors enhance the memory, interest, and creativity. Fitness Fun– Other toys and activities that can be wonderful and beneficial gifts are those that involve health and sports. Perhaps a new basketball and a coupon for a free game of horse would be a fun and creative gift to give. I personally enjoy fast paced games and activities such as bike riding, roller skating, and jet skiing! How about a new helmet to promote safety, or an iPod for long walks? Even the simplest gifts can be fun and encourage fitness. When was the last time you used a Hula Hoop or a Frisbee? Although December isn’t the ideal time for water sports, pool toys and beach games are great ideas too.
Since it is winter, maybe winter sportswear and gear would be a wonderful choice. Also, for colder weather, indoor sports and activities can be loads of fun. Trampolines, treadmills, and table tennis are great fun, healthy, and played with a roof over your head. No matter what gifts are given, remember that they come from the heart. I always thought that the best part of the holidays was watching my friends and family members open the gifts that I personally bought them, watching their expressions of excitement and pleasure, and listening to how “perfect” my gift was… That’s one of the best feelings in the whole world. Knowing that others appreciate your care and creativity is a heartwarming experience. I have found the educational toys are the ones my sons, nieces, nephews, and students enjoy the most; gifts that children can play and learn with at the same time. What better way to make a meaningful and lasting impression, than making a difference in the lives of those you love? Good luck in your shopping, and have a wonderful holiday season! Have a happy New Year too!
Student of the Quarter Delaney Samuelian is our Student of the Quarter. Quarter Delaney is a hardworking and excellent student. She loves the outdoors loves her family. Delaney is always up to be challenged with her academics. She is also one of our star sign language students.
Delaney Samuelian
Delaney with her brother, Tanner
“If you can you can
imagine it, achieve it;
Delaney and Ms. Pegram, our Sign Language teacher
If you can
dream it, you can
become it.�
Second quarter Newsletter
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Community Events Dana Point Harbor 41st Annual Boat Parade of Lights
Friday, Dec 11th & 18th, 2015 and Saturday, Dec 12th & 19th, 2015 from 7:30-9:30pm each evening The event will begin at Water’s Edge in Dana Point Harbor where boaters from all around Orange County decorate their boats and vie for the awards of Judges Choice, Best Theme, Best Use of Lights, Best Animation, Most Colorful, Most Original, Best Sailboat, Best Powerboat and the Perpetual Trophy for the Yacht Club with the Most Entries, along with many other awards and cash prizes! You can view the parade free from anywhere in the Harbor, or make reservations at one of our restaurants to view it from a cozy and warm spot. Come on down and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season! A Visit with Santa
DEC 4th & 5th Santa will visit your table while you enjoy a hot breakfast or dessert. Decorate a holiday cookie before joining Santa around the fireplace to listen to “The Night Before Christmas.” Bring your camera as individual photos will not be available for purchase. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Attendance is limited so please register early! Dessert with Santa December 4th / Friday / 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm Breakfast with Santa December 5th / Saturday / 8:00 am – 9:30 am Brunch with Santa December 5th / Saturday / 10:00 am – 11:30 am Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center 768-0981 www.communityservices.svusd.org $5 / Visit (12 years & younger) $7 / Visit (13 years & older) Pre-registration is required and is limited to one session per participant. Santa’s Workshop
DEC 2nd – DEC 20th Wednesday / Saturday / Sunday 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Children are invited to share their holiday wishes with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Santa’s Workshop. FREE hot chocolate will be served. Bring your camera to capture the holiday magic. Santa’s Village at Civic Center Plaza 830-7066 FREE (All events) Santa Photos
DEC 4th 4:30-7:30pm, DEC 10th 3-5pm El Torito Courtyard DEC 17th 3-5pm Dana Wharf Courtyard Bring your cameras and catch a selfie with Santa for Free with Santa Photos at various dates and locations. Santa Paws
DEC 5th 10am-3pm, El Torito Courtyard The Pet Project Foundation is hosting its 3rd annual Santa Paws event. Bring your pet for a photo with Santa for a small fee that will benefit the Pet Project Foundation www.petprojectfoundation.org Page 4
Volume 2, Issue 3
Community Events A Christmas Carol
DEC 14th & 15th 7:30 pm Out of the Box Learning & Arts presents “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens adapted for young performers by Kathryn Schultz Miller. Saddleback College - Studio Theatre 370-4142 / info@outoftheboxarts.com $5 ARTISAN FAIRE
Dec 12th & 19th / 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Arts and crafts vendors and art demonstrations, crafts for kids, live entertainment and much more. Sponsored by the Cultural Arts Committee and the Mission Viejo Friends of the Arts, and Saddleback Lanes. Mission Viejo Village Shopping Center (Marguerite/La Paz) FREE / 470-8440 Films of Character
The Community of Character Committee presents films to illustrate our community character qualities. A brief discussion follows. 2:00 pm – 4:50 pm Civic Center – Council Chamber 470-3062 FREE SUNDAY DEC 20th A Christmas Carol A bitter miser learns about CARING for others when three ghosts visit him on Christmas Eve. Rated PG SUNDAY JAN 17th Woman in Gold A woman demonstrates PERSEVERANCE as she takes on the Austrian government to recover artwork she believes rightfully belongs to her family. Rated PG-13 SUNDAY FEB 21st Gone with the Wind The classic film about Scarlett O’Hara, Rhett Butler, and the absence of UNITY experienced during the American Civil War. Rated PG-13 Polar Bear Plunge - Sierra Recreation Open House
SATURDAY JAN 30th 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm Gather at 1:00 pm for a group plunge into the pool and photo opportunity! Take a facility tour, participate in class demos and get a free fitness assessment. Enter to win free guest passes. Refreshments will be served. Sierra Recreation and Fitness Center 859-4348, extension 3 / www.cityofmissionviejo.org/recreation FREE Lord of the Strings
7:00 pm Civic Center – Council Chamber 842-2227 / www.lordofthestringsconcerts.com $30 Lord of the Strings concerts present many Grammy Award-winning artists and studio musicians. Dec 5th / Mark Mazengarb & Loren Barrigar (Fan Appreciation Day) Jan 23rd / Peppino D’Agostino Feb 6th / Don Adler Page 5
Volume 2, Issue 3
Success Stories “Thank you for making my life take a U turn.” - Ryan
“Thanks to the Armenta Learning Academy, I began taking Sign Language over a year ago. It is now one of my favorite classes and one day, I hope to get my degree in it. The Armenta Learning Academy has been very helpful in my education and I have been coming here for over five years. Mrs. Armenta and Mr. Smith are both wonderful teachers, and are so fun to be around.” - Brianna
“Mr. Smith, Thank you so much for everything! I got one of the best grades in my class
Letter from a Parent
“I’m so glad you’re helping me out. You’re the BEST teacher in this whole wide world and I love you very, very much.” - Maria
“Mrs. Armenta is one of
the sweetest ladies I’ve ever met! Her dogs are the same way. Mr. Smith makes my lessons fun and interes ng. I love being here with both of them!”
Dear Julie, I can’t thank you enough for bestowing to my son a much sought after, but elusive gift. Up until this past sumsingle--handedly instilled his mer with you, my son approached his education with great trepidation. You have single passion for learning. And when I say passion, I mean it literally. He has been so excited to go to school that he can barely stand it. Weekends can’t go by fast enough. He is always busy anticipating the next science experiment, contest or new topic. I never thought I would see the day that he was so excited to go to school. You opened a door I always knew was there, but traditional education just couldn’t unlock. Due to my son’s challenge with verbal expression, he rarely volunteered detailed conversation. It was always a brief reply about his day in school— school—until now. I was sincerely in awe when he spontaneously struck up a conversation with me where he was expounding on his knowledge of sharks. He had just learned about them that day. This was a true testament to you methods and ultimately, to your connection with him as a teacher. I think this last part is the “holy grail.” It is evident that you care about your students and their families and that you are passionate in helping to push them toward their potential. I think the kids tune into this, and parents such as myself love and appreciate it. In my heart, I wish that every child could experience the immersive, joyful learning experience Armenta Academy provides. It’s a shame that all education cannot be so passionately experienced. I’m just grateful that I found you and your place of joyful learning. You have given me a new found confidence that if the oneone-sizesize-fitsfitsall public education system fails my son’s unique learning abilities, I have you. You are my ace in the pocket! Armenta Academy is a place where hope can be reborn— reborn— and learning can be what it should be— be—passionately lived in a caring place. Looking forward to teaming up with you for another session in the near future. Kind regards, Nina Calentino Second quarter Newsletter
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New Learning Options At Armenta Learning Academy ACT/SAT Classes & Reading Program at ALA ACT/SAT classes will be held at ALA on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 3pm to 5pm. Our Reading Program with Mrs. Armenta will be held from 3pm to 5pm on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Academy. Phone & Online Tutoring We currently offer a number of options to accommodate our students. We offer services from out of our academy or in your home. Now we have launched over phone tutoring & online services. Need extra help with an exam last minute? Call us at (949)433-0898 for an emergency session! Reading Specialist & Private Sessions Julie M. Armenta At Armenta, we have the resources to help students Educational & Reading Specialist, MA with more specific needs with private sessions. We can & her beloved mother, Shari Armenta. help raise a grade level within first 4 sessions. Counseling and play therapy is available for children, as well. We have skilled specialists to meet the needs of the whole child, including academic, emotional, behavioral and social. Our 90 day program with our Reading Specialist is guaranteed to raise the student’s reading ability one grade level. We also offer programs for Special Education and other learning needs. Happy Holidays form Mrs. Armenta and her staff are available on or offsite, 7 days a Mrs. Armenta and week, to meet your child’s needs! Holiday specials are available. her Family!
Back to School Fun & Success! “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” Mahatma
Second quarter Newsletter
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Upcoming Events Armenta Angels We believe, at Armenta Learning Academy, in the importance of reaching out to the community and making a difference. We instill these values and principles to our students. We have cleaned up beaches, raised money and collected food and toys for those less fortunate. This quarter, we will be bringing Jackets of Love to local communities, sending a thank you letter to our soldiers, collecting food for the hungry and books for children. Let us know if we can help in any area in your communities or any causes you support. We love to make a difference in your lives and the lives of those around us all.
Armenta Pet Academy Custom Care & Training for your Pet Basic Puppy Skills Training & Socialization Obedience/Problem Solving Training—Cure digging, biting, barking and more! Tricks & Performance Training Call Armenta Pet Academy for all your pet training & boarding needs. (949) 433433-0898
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December - Books, Clothes & Toys Drive
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December - Volunteering Contest
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Dec. 1 - Secret Santa Begins
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Dec. 10 - Armenta Olympics & Games
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Dec. 21 thru Jan. 1 - Winter Recess
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Jan. 14 - Letters of Love to our Soldiers
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Jan. 18 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday (no school)
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Jan. 19 - New Year’s Resolution Essay Submissions Due
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Jan.21 - End of Semester
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Feb. 11 - Valentine’s Day Party
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Feb. 12 - Lincoln Holiday (no school)
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Feb. 15 - Washington Holiday (no school)
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Feb. 18 - Poetry Contest
Mrs. Armenta, Hannah & Brody
The Gift of Giving Toy & Clothing Collection ALA will be collecting donations of new, unopened toys, games, books, crayons, markers, clothing etc. to donate to needy children this year. This is the season of giving and not everyone is as fortunate as we may be. Please share the gift of giving, and help a child feel the joy of this Holiday season. December Contest This month ALA will be holding a contest to see which student will work the most volunteer hours. Students just need to log their service hours and have them signed by a supervisor or parent. We will tally up the hours at the end of the month, and whoever spent the most time volunteering will win a prize! Page 8
Jackets of Love This year we are collecting jackets, coats, sweaters and sweatshirts for local homeless people. Winter can get very cold when a person is living on the streets. Jackets are a more expensive item that are frequently unavailable to the homeless. We will be collecting at ALA all the way up to Winter Recess then taking all the jackets to Los Angeles for distribution. Book Drive Armenta is collecting books for the Million Books for Kids Campaign. We will help them with their goal to provide 1,000,000 books for needy children this year! Bring in your books in December, or go to the web site and make a monetary donation. http://www.iamfoundation.org
Armenta Referral Program Refer a student to Armenta Learning Academy and receive a free tutoring session to use or gift to someone for the holidays! Call ALA for more details.