Jax4Kids January 2017

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In this issue: Education Guide

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January 2017

January 19-22 Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena

Page 2 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

Contents

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

LIVING WELL

Dear Readers,

H

Community Profile: Foster Closet, Helping Those Who Help Others........... 4

appy New Year!

EATING WELL Jump Into Healthy Habits in 2017!.......................................................... 5

Whatever your hopes, dreams and goals are for yourselves and your families, surely a good education for your children is one of them. In this issue, we focus on this most important of topics.

Beginning on page 13, you will find the Spring Catalog of the Duval County Public School’s Parent Academy courses. These courses in Student Achievement, Parenting & Advocacy and Personal and Individual Growth are for everyone – not just parents of or students enrolled in a Duval County Public School. I encourage you to look through the course catalog. Many of these courses could help you achieve your goals!

If a better diet is a goal for 2017, turn to page 5 and read Aurea Thompson’s Jump Into Healthy Habits in 2017 article. Also on page 5 is a coupon for a free smoothie at Whole Foods Market.

Nadia Hionides, Eve award winner in Education, shares her wisdom on Project Based Learning and Educational Opportunities in the 21st Century. Ms. Hionides was instrumental in creating the Jacksonville Science Festival, an event Jax4Kids has been excited to support over the years. The 5th Annual Festival will be held February 23rd through 25th. There will be over 150 interactive booths in technology, engineering and science. We hope you will join us!

On January 21st, join Jax4Kids at the Prime Osborn Convention Center from 11am until 3pm for the School Choice Expo where you’ll learn about an array of educational options for the 20172018 school year. The event showcases magnet programs, career academies, charter schools, high school acceleration programs and neighborhood schools for all grade levels.

January 2017

HEALTH & SAFETY Be a Street Smart Superhero Before Riding Your Bike............................... 6 Strength Training Isn’t Just for Adults ...................................................... 7 Hand Sanitizers Poisoning More Kids....................................................... 7

INFANT & TODDLER

Keeping an Eye on Early Developmental Milestones................................. 8 Books for Toddlers................................................................................10 Things to Do: Infants and Toddlers........................................................10

On January 13th a new exhibit will open at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. It’s Nature Connects, the award-winning travel exhibit by LEGO® featuring an 8 foot Polar Bear with Cubs, 12 foot long disappearing Rhino, a Giant Sea Turtle, 6 foot Zebra and Wildebeest and many more amazing LEGO® animal sculptures! Read more about the new exhibit on page 24.

We all hope for more peace in the world and CISV is an organization that teaches peace through building global friendships. My daughter has had the opportunity to travel to China and Italy with CISV and now has friends across the globe. If you have a child age 11 to 25, turn to page 21 and learn more about CISV and the dates and times for upcoming information sessions.

Until next month, Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

SPECIAL NEEDS

Things To Do: Special Needs.................................................................11

TEENS

Sticks and stones make break my bones, but social media still matters..12 Things To Do: Teens..............................................................................12

PARENT ACADEMY

Spring Course Catalog.....................................................................13-20

EDUCATION CISV: Helping Form Responsible Global Citizens....................................21 21st Century Educational Opportunities.................................................22 Making Learning Easier: 5 Tips to give Your Student an Advantage ........24 LEGO® at the Zoo ................................................................................24 That’s My Job: Circus Ringmaster, Kristen Michelle Wilson ...................25

DUVAL COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS School Choice Expo..............................................................................26

ST. JOHNS COUNTY SCHOOL NEWS

Follow us...

Get Ready for Annual Six Pillars Race....................................................27 Force Named Technical College Head....................................................27 Test Prep Need to Know........................................................................27 It’s Science Fair Time............................................................................27

CLAY COUNTY SCHOOL NEWS Alison Peters-Carlson Editor....................................... editor@jax4kids.com Linda Bigbee Graphic Designer......................................linda@jax4kids.com Tim Chavez Graphic Designer........................................... tim@jax4kids.com Judi Fields Circulation Manager........................................judi@jax4kids.com Beth Canonica Advertising Sales.................................... beth@jax4kids.com Donna Paunetto Advertising Sales.............................. donna@jax4kids.com Doug Berle Advertising Sales......................................... doug@jax4kids.com Mary Gustafson Business Manager............................... mary@jax4kids.com

Teacher of Year/Employee of Year Nominations......................................28 T’was the Season.................................................................................28 Davis Plans to “Elevate Clay”.................................................................28

PETS

Impress Your Guests with a Well-Behaved Dog.......................................29

THINGS TO DO

January Events.....................................................................................30

Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2017.

Reproduction of any artwork or copy prepared by Jax4Kids.com To Go is strictly prohibited without written consent of the publisher. We will not be responsible for any errors and/or omissions. The Publisher’s liability for error will not exceed the cost of space occupied by the error. Articles for publication are welcome and may be sent to editor@jax4kids.com. For more information concerning advertising, call 904-710-2020 or e-mail advertise@jax4kids.com.

JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 3

LIVING WELL

Community Profile: Foster Closet, Helping Those Who Help Others

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elcome to the Foster Closet, a free resource for Northeast Florida’s foster parents needing clothing, children’s accessories, toys and furniture and more. The organization offers a simple, no-nonsense approach that provides assistance without complicated procedures.

When the McGuire family – Tammy, John and two biological children, welcomed their first foster children in 2005, a newborn boy and his 13-month-old brother, they found they needed everything from clothes and a crib, to a high chair and double stroller. They were surprised to discover there was nowhere available that provided immediate assistance.

After the boys were adopted, Tammy was inspired fill that void by creating Foster Closet. Staring with their home’s closet, the McGuires solicited donations from friends, family, neighbors and members of their community.

Today, Foster Closet, centrally located in a storefront at 8307 Beach Blvd., helps over 800 children a year in Jacksonville and at the Alachua Foster Closet at the First Baptist Church in High Springs. It also sponsors a “Pathway” program for teens and young adults aging out of foster care, and for the parents, a support program and a free

“night out” program.

Items provided by Foster Closet include: • One Week’s of Clothes: newborn through XXL men’s and women’s sizes • Shoes of all sizes • Baby items: Diapers, highchairs, car seats, cribs (and much more) • Beds: Toddler & bunks (Foster) and twin/full/ queen (Pathway and Extended Foster Care) • Toys for any age (7-8 items) • 10 books each (at the child’s reading level) • Bibles - age appropriate and devotionals • Age and content appropriate DVDs and CDs and Computer Games • Sporting equipment • Bicycles, scooters, skateboards • Backpacks and School Supplies • Handbags • Teen jewelry and prom dresses • Unused make-up, hair and hygiene products • Pathway teens: furniture, household goods and small appliances and delivery.

For information on how to make a donation (money, clothing, toys, books, furniture) or volunteer at the store, visit the website, fostercloset.org. j Tammy McGuire

February 11 & 18 • St. Marys, GA

Page 4 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

EATING WELL

Jump into Healthy Habits in 2017!

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et a jump-start into healthy this year with your family! Looking for easy ways to make positive changes in your family’s diet? Try out the tips below to see what small things you can do to make a big impact on health.

Can the Soda

With 10 teaspoons of sugar per 12-ounce can, this sugary beverage is not only bad for kids’ teeth, but it provides approximately 150 calories per serving. If you or your child drinks 2-3 cans/ day of soda, that adds up to 300-450 extra calories per day. Multiple those calories by 7 days per week, and now you have near enough to make a pound of unwanted fat per week. Don’t like the idea of your kids drinking diet sodas with artificial sweeteners? Then make your own flavored waters at home! Simply get a quartsized container; place fruits/herbs at the bottom (crush the herbs a little to release the full flavor), then fill the jar with regular or seltzer water. Not sweet enough? Simply add a touch of honey, agave nectar or crushed stevia leaf for natural sweetening.

Minty Cucumber Lime 1/2 cucumber, sliced

1/2 lime, sliced 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves

Strawberry-Lemon Zinger 1/2 cup sliced strawberries 1/2 lemon, sliced Watermelon Mint 1 cup cubed watermelon 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves Pineapple-Orange with Ginger 1/2 cup cubed pineapple 1/2 orange, sliced 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger Move Over Yogurt Think giving your child any yogurt is healthy?

Think again. Several brands of yogurt which appeal to children not only have added “hidden” sugars in them, but also provide sugary toppings such as parfait sprinkles or crushed Oreos on top to mix in. Yogurt naturally contains lactose (the carbohydrate in milk), so it may have around 8-12 grams of sugar per serving to begin with.

Add honey, cane juice or fruit juice as an ingredient (or candy toppings!) and now your

kid’s favorite yogurt may have as much as 25-32 grams of sugar per serving! That’s an entire day’s limit of sugar in one food item and more like dessert than a healthy food. Instead, try a Greek yogurt as they tend to have less sugar to start, and look on the label for ones without extra sugars added. Aim for no more than 10-15 grams of sugar per serving. Even better, limit your child’s portion to 4-ounces.

Freeze My Vegetables!

Want to offer your family healthy foods yearround but afraid you can’t always afford fresh?

Be assured that you don’t have to sacrifice nutrition for cost. Frozen vegetables offer a great alternative to fresh. Look for the label “US Fancy” which indicates that the produce is the best size, shape and color which generally means they are more nutrient-rich than lower grades of veg-

etables which are marked “US No 1” or “US No 2”. Don’t however, let frozen veggies sit in your freezer for an extended amount of time, or they will degrade over time. Hint: write the date on the package and if it’s been more than 8 months, it’s been too long. Try to eat frozen vegetables within 6 months of purchase. When cooking, try to preserve as many of the nutrients as possible by steaming or microwaving (versus boiling) your veggies to minimize the loss of water-soluble vitamins (the B-vitamins and vitamin C).

With small changes one at a time, together your family can make healthier habits in 2017! Make it a healthy, happy New Year! j Aurea Thompson, MSH, RD, CSP, LD/N Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition Wolfson Children’s Hospital

“Celebrate endings, for they precede new beginnings.”

– Jonathan Lockwood Huie

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Page 5

HEALTH & SAFETY

Be a Street Smart Superhero Before Riding Your Bike

M

them to keep their eyes up and looking ahead and any children and families will receive new not down at the bike or at their friends riding around bikes for the holidays. Bikes make memothem. rable presents and are a great way for the whole family to have fun and stay healthy. They can • TEACH THEM APPROPRIATE ROAD AWARENESS: Before crossing a street they should look left, right, provide children opportunities to socialize with and then left again before proceeding. Obeying their peers and spend more time outdoors. Riding traffic signs, including red lights and stop signs, is a a bike has been documented to improve cardiomust! Tell them to ride on the right side of the road vascular endurance, decrease risk of obesity, and with traffic and stay as far right as possible. Make increase balance as well as boost self-confisure your child knows appropriate hand signals, dence. To be a Safety Superhero, ThinkFirst which can be found under the “For Kids” tab at wants to remind parents that a bike is actually a http://www.nhtsa.gov/Bicycles. vehicle and knowledge about the bike will ensure • SAFETY AT NIGHT: Limit riding after dark but if they your children are safe while riding their favorite must: ensure they wear reflective clothing and have present this year: • CHECK EQUIPMENT: Make sure the tires are fully inflated with air, check the brakes for proper sensitivity, and make sure that the bike has reflectors on the back seat and pedals before letting your child ride.

• ALWAYS WEAR A PROPERLY FITTED BICYCLE HELMET: Studies show wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of a head injury by 85%1. Protecting your child’s brain is critical so a properly fitted helmet can save lives. ThinkFirst provides step-by-step instructions on how to fit your child’s bike helmet (www.ThinkFirst.com).

• ADJUST THE BICYCLE TO FIT: When the child is sitting on the bike, the seat height should allow for a slight bend in the knee when the leg is fully extended. Their feet should be able to touch the ground. Local bike shops can help you determine the proper seat height if you do not feel comfortable adjusting it on your own.

• NO NONSENSE RIDING: Do not allow your child to ride with one hand on the handle bars or carry objects in their arms while riding. These should be placed in a backpack or bicycle carrier. Both hands must be on the handle bars at all times.

• ENSURE THEY CAN BE SEEN: Whether riding in the morning or afternoon, do not assume drivers will see your child. Teach your children that just because they see a driver doesn’t mean the driver sees them.

They should be wearing bright colors or neon clothing for best visibility. Wearing white has not been shown to make them more visible. Instruct

light reflectors on the front and back of the bike. A head light on the helmet will also increase their visibility to drivers and is the law.

• BE A LOOKOUT: Children who cannot understand or use traffic rules and hand signals should not ride alone or on the road. Where permitted, keep children on sidewalks and parents be aware of surroundings watching out for other cyclists, cars, potholes, dogs, and other distractions that may cause an accident.

Riding a bike can open so many opportunities for your children to explore their neighborhood, make friends, and stay healthy. So as your child rides into the New Year, teach them to be a Street Smart Superhero!

Happy Holidays! j

Thompson, R.S.; Rivara, F.P.; and Thompson, D.C. 1989. A case-control study of the effectiveness of bicycle safety helmets. New England Journal of Medicine 320:1361-67.

1

Sharon DiFino, SLP, PhD, CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist Johns Creek Pediatric Center ThinkFirst Co-director, Brooks Rehabilitation sharon.difino@brooksrehab.org

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Page 6 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

HEALTH & SAFETY

Strength Training Isn’t Just for Adults

K

ids can get started early for stronger muscles and bones.

More than a third of kids today carry around too many extra pounds. So, lots of parents want to do everything they can to protect their children from weight-linked conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. One way to keep kids in shape is to follow the government’s 60-minutes-a-day aerobic exercise guideline.

Strength training is another way to build fitter, leaner young bodies. You don’t need to turn your elementary schooler into a pint-sized bodybuilder, though.

“Start with light free weights, resistance bands, or body weight,” says Beth Jordan, an American Council on Exercise certified personal trainer. Kids can begin these activities at 7 or 8 years old, the American

Academy of Pediatrics says.

Strength training two or three times a week builds muscle, zaps fat, strengthens bones, and improves children’s motor skills, research finds. The key is to set up a program that’s safe.

If your child is generally healthy, a well-designed basic strength-training program poses few risks. Muscle strains are the most common strength-training injuries among children, the AAP says. But with good supervision and technique, such injuries are less common than in other sports and even at recess.

Try these tips to get your child started: Get guidance. Hire a certified personal trainer or coach to make a weight-training program and oversee the

Hand Sanitizers Poisoning More Kids P

oison center officials are warning parents and school officials about a troubling trend -- small children becoming intoxicated after drinking alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

“You and I don’t have any problem sending our kids with hand sanitizer in their backpacks. But what if I told you that was twice as potent as vodka. That’s like a parent sending a bottle of whiskey or rum to school,” Lopez says.

“A doctor called us about a week and a half ago about two cases he saw the same day at the ER,” says Gaylord Lopez, PharmD, director of the Georgia Poison Center. “It was a 5- and a 6-year-old.”

Because of their small size, kids are more vulnerable to alcohol poisoning than adults are. They may stagger, seem sleepy, or vomit. Their heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing may slow.

The first patient, a 6-year-old girl, was picked up after school stumbling and slurring her words. She’d also fallen and hit her head. Her mother drove her straight to the ER, where doctors found out she’d eaten two to three squirts of strawberry-scented hand sanitizer from a big container sitting on her teacher’s desk.

Alcohol can also cause a child’s blood sugar to drop rapidly, leading to seizures and coma.

Her blood alcohol level was 1.79, almost twice what would be considered the legal limit in an adult.

The second case was a 5-year-old boy, who came in with a blood alcohol level of 2.0. The culprit was hand sanitizer.

Lopez checked the national data and saw these cases were part of an unrecognized trend. In 2010, U.S. poison centers got more than 3,600 calls about kids under age 12 eating hand sanitizers. By 2013, that number had swelled to more than 16,000 calls.

“That’s a 400 percent increase,” Lopez says. “I was surprised more than anyone.”

What Adults Need to Know Hand sanitizers come in brightly colored bottles, can be laced with glitter, and smell like bubble gum, lemonade, and vanilla -- packaging that makes them very tempting to young children.

The trouble is that these products can be 40% to 95% alcohol. Drinking even just little bit can make kids intoxicated. It’s like drinking a shot or two of hard liquor.

first few sessions, offering feedback on your child’s form and technique. The International Youth Conditioning Association has a database of trainers for kids on its website. The American Council on Exercise also has an online “find a pro” tool and offers a “youth fitness” certification. Check to make sure your coach has youth-specific training and experience.

Don’t over-train. Lighter weights are always better.

“Using weights that are too heavy for a child can lead to injury such as a strain or sprain on muscles, tendons, or ligaments,” Jordan says. You can tell the weights are too heavy if your child seems to strain while lifting them, or if he’s overly sore or tired after workouts.

Start empty-handed. “The key to making any workout program successful and safe is to start without any tools and learn proper form,” Jordan says. Once your child knows the movements, introduce 1- to 5-pound weights. Gradually increase the weight when she can easily do 10 to 15 reps. Even when your child already knows the moves, stick close by. “Children should always have adult supervision to ensure safety,” Jordan says.

Build a stronger diet. “Healthy nutritional choices will have a huge positive impact on a child’s wellness goals,” she says. A mix of lean proteins, complex carbs, and healthy fats will help your child stick to an appropriate weight and strengthen muscle. j

webmd.com Reviewed by Hansa D. Bhargava, MD

“And now we welcome the new year, full of things that have never been. ” – Rainer Maria Rilke

Lopez says hand sanitizers are often included in the list of school supplies parents should send to school. He says many adults he’s talked to don’t realize that hand sanitizers contain so much alcohol, or they don’t realize that it’s the kind of alcohol that can cause intoxication.

“I wanted to get the word out. Parents should be aware. Teachers should be aware.”

Lopez sent a letter to the state superintendent and followed up with letters to the top 10 school systems in the state.

He says parents and teachers should keep hand sanitizers out of reach and allow kids to use them only with adult supervision. These products do “have a role in decreasing germs,” he says.

If you’re going to send hand sanitizer to school, Lopez thinks it’s worth looking for brand that doesn’t contain alcohol, or sending a child with hand wipes instead.

If you think your child has eaten hand sanitizer, he recommends you call the American Association of Poison Control Centers for free advice: 1-800-2221222. j

webmd.com Reviewed by Hansa D. Bhargava, MD

JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 7

INFANT & TODDLER

Keeping an Eye on Early Developmental Milestones W atching your child grow and develop is truly miraculous. Parents watch with amazement as their children gain new skills: babies eagerly engage with their surroundings, and then toddlers seek to obtain independence and mastery. However, as any parent will tell you, parenting does not come with a manual or “how-to” guide. There are many times when parents feel uncertain about whether or not they are making the right decision, or if they should be concerned or not for their child’s well-being.

Parents may wonder: “Is my child on par with his peers?” or “Is my child’s speech delayed?” or “Could my child have autism?” Developmental screening provides accurate information about child development, which can help parents to feel confident about their choices and can ensure all children have the best opportunities for success.

Parents provide the foundation for learning and early development. Providing babies with an engaging and responsive environment, full of stimulation and language, creates learning opportunities to promote brain development.

There are several areas of child development that should be monitored: language, motor skills, cognitive skills, and social and emotional functioning. Monitoring your child’s progress in these areas can help to determine where your child excels, as well as what areas may require further assistance.

also know that early intervention promotes optimal long-term outcomes in children with autism and other developmental delays (e.g., Zwaigenbaum, et al., 2015). The earlier that a child receives treatment, the better their chance to overcome delays and minimize the impact of developmental disabilities.

So how do you know if your child is delayed?

And when should you seek help? First, you should always talk with your pediatrician. Tell your pediatrician if you have concerns about your child’s development and ask for a referral to a specialist. Many pediatricians routinely incorporate screening checklists as part of their well-child visits, such as the MCHAT-R (e.g., www.m-chat.org), to screen for autism symptoms and determine if a referral to a specialist is needed.

Second, stay informed of what is typical and what might be a sign of delay. The American Academy of Pediatrics’ Healthy Kids.org website has lots of helpful information about typical childhood development at all ages and stages, as well as information on common health problems and developmental issues experienced in childhood.

You can use this information to ask informed questions of your pediatrician.

Finally, if you have a concern, it is always a good idea to consult a professional with expertise in What can you as a parent do to facilitate your child development, such as child psychologists child’s development? You can promote language and developmental pediatricians. Specialists can by talking to your baby often; the more language provide screenings and assessments to detershe hears, the better her vocabulary will be! mine if there are any developmental problems.

Giving your child sensory toys to explore For example, the Right from the Start (RFTS) promotes early cognitive skills. Cause-and-effect Clinic at Keystone Behavioral Pediatrics provides toys, like pushing buttons to create music or free developmental screening for children up to movement, allow him to discover that he can act age 5. For more information about the free upon his environment in order to achieve a screenings available at the RFTS Clinic, please specific outcome. You can encourage practice see our website, www.keystonebehavioral.com, of motor skills, starting with opportunities for and click on the Ages and Stages Questionnaire basic gross motor development (e.g., walking and link. running) as well as play and craft activities that foster fine motor dexterity (e.g., beading, building With a careful eye towards monitoring your with blocks). You can encourage social interacchild’s development, you can be sure that your tions when playing together. Simple games, such child is on track, and you can seek help if delays as rolling a ball back and forth, build reciprocity are suspected. There are many intervention and the foundation for sharing and turn-taking. strategies and therapies that can promote development, such as speech therapy or All children grow and develop at varying rates. occupational therapy. Developmental screenings Some children will seem to be advanced in some can provide peace of mind to parents and also areas but behind in other areas, and other allows us to identify areas in need of attention. children may be developing slowly but then make The earlier we can identify a possible problem, significant gains in a few short days. It is the earlier we can intervene, which gives us the important to monitor a child’s early development best chance to minimize or even prevent a true in all areas without sounding the alarm too early, problem from developing. j since things can change rapidly. However, we

Page 8 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

For more than 10 years, Grace House Counseling Center has provided hope and encouragement to thousands of hurting individuals and families on Florida's First Coast.

2 convenient locations: Orange Park/Fleming Island & North Jacksonville 904.269.0886 www.gracehousecounseling.org

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JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 9

Books for Toddlers COOKIES: BITE-SIZE LESSONS By Amy Krouse Rosenthal These cookies also have something good to say in a new kind of dictionary, one that defines mysteries such as “fair” and “unfair” and what it really means to “cooperate.”

THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR By Eric Carle The caterpillar’s still hungry. And just like him, when it comes to this classic book, toddlers can’t seem to get enough.

WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT

By Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury Be warned: This fun read is likely to inspire many a bear hunt of your own.

FREIGHT TRAIN

By Donald Crews Have a train-crazy kid? This book has great illustrations to help children learn the names of each type of train car.

THE NAPPING HOUSE

Things to Do Infant & Toddler

Imagination Station January 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26, 31, 11am to 12:30pm TNT offers Imagination Station. Class includes Open Gym Playtime with Parent (11am to 12noon) and Organized Activity (12noon to 12:30pm). Cost is $12 for members; $15 for non-members and $6 (Ages 12-23 Months).

Class is for ages 2 to 6. Held every Tuesday and Thursday.

TNT Gymnastics / 904-998-TNT1 / 2683 Saint Johns Bluff Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www. tntgymfit.com

Theatreworks Presents: Biscuit January 26, 10am Theatreworks presents a stage presentation of Biscuit. This new musical features a frolicking little puppy named Biscuit who loves exploring, making new friends, and even stirring up some mischief. Along the way, Biscuit learns about the joys of having a family. With over 17 million books in print, Biscuit is a modern classic. Best suited for children in grades PK – 2. Tickets are $8 each and are available online. Two performances, one at 10am and one at 12noon.

The Florida Theatre / 904-353-3500 / 128 E Forsyth St, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.theatreworksjax.com

St. Johns Reads - “Wild West” Pre-K Storytime January 26, 11am to 11:45am Little Learners: Smart Smiles All Cowgirls and Cowboys ages 3 and up are inJanuary 11, 9:30am to 11:30am vited for a special Pre-K Storytime Class celebratBring your little ones to MOSH the second ing the 2017 St. Johns Reads selection, “True Wednesday of every month for exclusive Grit,”. Kids will learn about this exciting time programming for preschool-aged children and in American History with fun, western-themed their caregivers. This month, learn about the im- books, singing and dancing, and culminating in a portance of keeping our pearly whites healthy. craft. Wear your favorite western-themed attire, if Doors open at 9:30 a.m. for Museum explorayou wish. tion, followed by Little Learners circle time and Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library / 904-827-6950 sing-along, programming and community learn- / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / ing activities through 11:30. Admission is only www.sjcpls.org $5 per person (ages 3 and up). This program is extremely popular, please pre-register online.

Visit Jax4Kids.com’s Infant and MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL Toddler Events guide, online at 32207 / www.themosh.org www.jax4kids.com

By Audrey Wood and Don Wood We love how this story builds, making tots wonder and anticipate what will happen in the end.

THE HAPPY EGG By Ruth Krauss

As you know, toddlers are curious about... well, everything. This book tackles one interesting phenomenon: how a baby bird comes from an egg!

FAST FOOD By Saxton Freymann

The author has a gift for transforming recognizable fruits and veggies into adorable animals and objects.

YUMMY YUCKY

By Leslie Patricelli How often do you say “yucky” to the things your kid puts in her mouth?

Read this book with her to explain the difference between yummy and yucky – so she (hopefully) can stop experimenting on her own.

WHERE’S MY TEDDY?

By Jez Alborough If your toddler’s got a lovey, then chances are he can relate to this book’s topic: Searching for a missing teddy bear.

COUNTING KISSES By Karen Katz

A countdown to bedtime, this book is sure to inspire lots of sweet mom-toddler snuggles.

Page 10 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

Kids really do say the funniest things! Please share your favorites with us by e-mailing your story directly to editor@jax4kids.com. One entry each month will be turned into a cartoon to be published in the next issue of Jax4Kids. We’ll send you the original cartoon as a keepsake.

Things to Do Special Needs

Super Sprouts Social Group January 4, 11, 18, 25, 4pm to 6pm This special social group targets social skills that many high-functioning children with special needs struggle with. Examples of skills taught include but are not limited to: sharing, emotion recognition, eye contact, conversation initiation and exchange, and many other essential skills that help our children thrive. Our Super Sprouts Social Group is open to boys and girls with or without special needs, between the ages of 7 and 13. Contact Bloom Behavioral Solutions if your are interested in your child becoming a Super Sprout. Held every Wednesday from 4pm to 6pm.

Bloom Behavioral Solutions / 904-647-1849 / 9141 Cypress Green Drive, Suite 2, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.bloom-behavioral-solutions.com

effectively serve their constituents. Sign up for a consultative appointment with clinicians who specialize in child psychology, behavior therapy, academic interventions, Autism Screeners, Transition, and more. Appointments are at no cost to the family. Location: Family Services Center, 418 S. 8th St., Macclenny, FL 32063. To schedule an appointment please contactchanel.baldwin@jax.ufl.edu, (904)633-0816.

Family Services Center / 904-633-0816 / 418 S. 8th Street, Macclenny, FL 32063 / www.hscj.ufl. edu

CARD/FDLRS Satellite Clinic – Nassau County January 12, 9am Related Disabilities (CARD) and the UF-Jacksonville Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources System Multi-Disciplinary Center (FLDRS-MDC) offer clinics to outlying counties in order to more effectively serve their constituents. Sign up for a consultative appointment with clinicians who specialize in child psychology, behavior therapy, academic interventions, Autism Screeners, Transition, and more.

Appointments are at no cost to the family. This Buddy Breaks at Raiford Road Church clinic is offered in collaboration with the Nassau January 7 County School Board. Location: the Family EducaBuddy Break is a free kids respite program where tion Center/Full Service School, 86207 Felmor kids with special needs (VIP Kids) make new Road, Yulee, FL 32097. To schedule an appointfriends and enjoy all kinds of activities, while ment please contact chanel.baldwin@jax.ufl.edu, caregivers get a break. This program is provided (904)633-0816. by partnerships with local churches.

Family Education Center/Full Service School / 904Raiford Road Church / 904-259-6015 / 9201 633-0816 / 86207 Felmor Road, Yulee, FL 32097 / South State Road 121, Macclenny, FL 32063 / www.hscj.ufl.edu www.nathanielshope.org Card 101 – Nassau County Jumpstreet Special Needs Event January 12, 2pm January 7, 9am to 11am An introductory training for families just beginJumpstreet hosts a special event for children ning their journey with CARD. The training informs with special needs and their siblings. The semi- families about the services provided at the UF-Jax private event will be held the first Saturday of the CARD. It also gives parents a chance to ask quesmonth. From 9am to 10am, the event is private; tions and complete the necessary consent forms from 10am to 11am, the event is open to the for receiving services. Parents need to provide a public. Cost is $8 for children 4 and up; $4 for copy of the child’s ASD diagnosis and/or IEP with children 3 and under. Parents/guardians are free. them before starting CARD services. Location: Jumpstreet / 904-853-5721 / 1214 Beach Blvd, the Family Education Center/Full Service School, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.gotjump.

86207 Felmor Road, Yulee, FL 32097. For more com information or to register for this event contactchanel.baldwin@jax.ufl.edu.

Rebounderz Sensory Friendly and Special Family Education Center/Full Service School / Needs Nights 86207 Felmor Road, Yulee, FL 32097 / www.hscj.

January 9, 23, 3pm to 7pm ufl.edu Available on the 1st & 3rd Monday of each month* from 3:00pm-7:00pm from September 24th Annual CARD Conference – Orlando – May. January 20-22 No music. Fewer distractions (arcade games The purpose of this annual statewide conference is will be off). Access is for one hour of time on the to provide information on state-of-the-art practices trampolines and/or ninja course. One parent/ in areas that promote best practices in education, caretaker/therapist is admitted for FREE with early intervention and quality community based each child’s $12 paid admission. Parent/carelife-styles for individuals with autism, deaftaker/therapist is permitted to assist child while blindness, and related disabilities. The 24th Annual on the jumper. Only one person is permitted to Statewide Autism Conference and PEPSA Prejump per square. Rebounderz Jump socks are Conference, will take place January 20-22 2017, required for anyone going out on the trampolines. at the Florida Hotel and Conference Center located Jump socks are available for $2 per pair and are at 1500 Sand Lake Road in Orlando, FL, at the reusable on future visits. Admission is limited.

Florida Mall. ADOS 2 Workshop: A 2-Day Workshop Pre-purchasing tickets is recommended. on ADOS 2 will also be provided Thursday, January Rebounderz / 904-300-0070 / 14985 Old St. Au- 19 and Friday, January 20, 2017 from 8am-4pm. gustine Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / rebound- Participants will learn how to use the ADOS 2 in erzjacksonville.com clinical practice to assess and diagnose autism.

For more information or to register for the ADOS 2 CARD/FDLRS Satellite Clinic – Baker County workshop, visit website.

January 10, 9am Florida Hotel and Conference Center / 1500 Sand The UF-Jacksonville Center for Autism and ReLake Road, Orlando, FL 32809 / www.cardconferlated Disabilities (CARD) and the UF-Jacksonville ence.net Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources System Multi-Disciplinary Center (FLDRS-MDC) offer Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings. clinics to outlying counties in order to more

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Call (904) 732-4343 or visit www.JSAKIDS.org 9000 Cypress Green Drive Jacksonville, FL 32256 JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 11

TEENS

Sticks & stones may break bones, but social media still matters

R

ecent studies have shown that 95% of adolescents have online access and 75% of kids have social media accounts, with the majority of those accounts being Facebook. That said, Twitter, Snapchat, and many various others also provide a space for teens to relate to one another. Throughout adolescence, teens spend more time with peers than adults, they are exploring many aspects of social presence and form their core identity, and they are facing a number of pressures at a time when they have the least amount of experience to deal with these issues. This article will explore the impact of social media and cyberbullying, as well as what parents can do to impact parent-child relations, adolescent involvement and healthy socialization, as well as supporting teens that may experience cyberbullying.

What is the impact of social media? There can be many positive impacts from social media— knowledge and awareness of local events, connection with groups of peers, as well as information pertaining to their interests. However, there can be negative side effects as well. For one, there can be unintended effects of positive posts by others known as “Facebook depression.” Upwards social comparison causes a person to see what others are doing, compare themselves to others and possibly see their own life events as being inferior. Honestly, the comparison isn’t fair. If a person compares their own worst times (or even difficult, or just mediocre times) to other people’s highlights, there is going to be a difference, which is when they may experience negative emotions—sadness and perhaps anxiety due to “not measuring up.”

Michelle Obama has made it a part of her mission to combat childhood obesity.

solve issues. It will not help to dictate how they ive and aim to work out a solution that you all should handle themselves, work on options and can both agree to. encourage healthy action.

• Consider joining their social media circle. This may need to be handled gingerly, in a way that What can parents do related to social media and does not make your teen defensive, but it may cyberbullying overall? be quite useful.

I laid out a clear rationale for why parents should be concerned about cyberbulling, but it is also important to consider that there can be mitigating factors that can help to build up adolescents of all • Open the conversation about the downsides to ages and protect against the negative effects of social media. cyberbullying.

• Invite them to rely on you for help. Be supportWhat can parents do in the “real world” to prevent negative effects of cyberbullying?

• Encourage kids to engage in any number of healthy (and adult-monitored) social endeavors. This may include church/religious groups, boyscouts or community organizations, clubs at school, sports teams, etc.

• Encourage kids to engage in preferred activities that build a sense of competency. For some kids, this may be sports. For others, the sense of competency may come from experience with debate, science, computer programming, or nearly anything else that supports real-life skills. In fact, parents may be able to target socialization and competency all at once, by encouraging involvement in social groups that promote skills.

• Keep a close connection between family and teens. Often parents feel that once a kid starts adolescence, they are no longer a part of their child’s life. That can’t be further from the truth.

Lack of parental involvement and monitoring for adolescents are predictive of smoking, drug abuse, delinquent criminal activity, sexual risk behavior, etc. Continue to plan family fun nights, weekend activities, extended family events, etc. Even if the adolescent says “this is lame,” still make it an essential part of family Thus far, I’ve only talked about unintended effects life. Maybe get their input “We’re going to do of positive messages seen from others; however, something together—what do you suggest as adolescents also experience direct negative a fun family activity?” I’m not saying that any statements, threats, and/or attempts to make one teen gets full control over every family them feel awful (aka cyberbullying). Cyberbullying night, just that they can maybe help plan happens on average to 20-40% of adolescents something that they’re willing to be a part of. and teens (more or less to 1 in 3 kids). Effects of • Encourage healthy social relationships overall. cyberbullying can be more severe than those of It’s okay for parents to have some knowledge upward social comparison. Over 90% of cyberabout who their kids and teens spend time bullying targets may experience depression, feel with. “Who all are you hanging out with? What powerless, feel isolated and withdraw socially, do you all like to do? How does it go when you experience social anxiety, have somatic sympall are hanging out—do you feel included? toms as a result of the stress (sleep disturbance, Maybe we can invite your friend(s) over, I’d like stomach aches, headaches), or even suicidality. to meet them. What do you think you all would The rate of suicidality among middle school like to do if they come over?” If you get a lot of students is double that of those who have not vague answers, there may be a reason for it. been cyberbullied (Nixon, 2014; https://www.

Further exploration—CALM discussion—of the ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4126576/), situation may be needed. There’s no better way although it is also noted that suicidality is much to make a kid or adolescent stand-offish than higher than non-cyberbullied peers among high to press hard and show anger when discussing schoolers and college aged kids. Cyberbullying something, so remain calm. has had such a strong impact on the social fabric of Americans, Melania Trump said that she would • *Encourage healthy handling of social conflict. make it a part of her mission as First Lady to Invite them to discuss social conflicts, and combat cyberbullying, much the same as make yourself a resource to help them problem

Page 12 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

• Discuss the realities of sexting. Anything sent out will likely get shared with others. Sometimes that part needs to be said directly. j

Things to Do Teens

Introduction to the Redesigned SAT Test January 3, 6pm to 6:50pm The SAT has recently been redesigned and everything you thought you knew about the SAT is now different. Come to this free presentation to get all the information you need. Instructor Brett Hancock has been a teacher for 21 years and an instructor of SATs for 20+ years. For more information, call the library at 904-827-6940.

Main Branch, SJCPLS / 904-827-6940 / 1960 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.sjcpls.org Child & Babysitting Safety Course January 14, 10:30am to 3:30pm This class is designed to familiarize and to provide youth with the basic knowledge and skills needed to care for infants and children. This course offers certification in Child & Babysitting Safety for youth (approx.) ages 11-16. Certification is through the American Safety & Health Institute. Cost is $45.

Register in advance to reserve your spot.

Nocatee Community Fitness Center / 904-4346032 / 245 Nocatee Center Way, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 / www.safetyfirstjax.com Free Poetry Class January 19, 6pm to 7:30pm Through a grant from the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs, local nonprofit Hope at Hope at Hand will host monthly poetry sessions to celebrate a poet born in each month. All sessions are free and open to the public and will offer a poetry lesson, punch and a birthday cake. Lessons are appropriate for ages 13+ and parents must accompany youth participants. All sessions will be held at Hope at Hand’s headquarters, 3886 Atlantic Boulevard from 6pm to 7:30pm. This month’s featured poet is Carl Sandburg. Participants must register online in advance. Search Hope at Hand or use creator name Steffani@HopeAtHand.org to find the registration page. Hope at Hand / 904-868-HOPE / 3886 Atlantic Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www. hopeathand.org

Teen Cooking: Ramen Hacks January 24, 6pm to 7pm Teens ages 11 and up will learn the basics of cleanliness, food prep, and food safety at this monthly program sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

Registration is required for this free program. Call 904-827-6900 or e-mail aphillips@sjcfl.us to reserve your spot. A parent or guardian must be present at the time of the program to sign a waiver.

This month, learn how to take your ramen from bland to gourmet.

Southeast Branch Library / 904-827-6900 / 6670 US 1 South, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / www.sjcpls. org Calculator Class For Teens – cut last January 24, 6pm to 7pm The Friends of the Library are hosting a Calculator Class for teens. Teens will learn how to operate their scientific calculators in preparation for their standardized tests. This class will cover TI 83+ or TI 84+ graphing calculators only. A donation of $5 to the Friends of the Library is requested for those attending.

Bartram Trail Branch / 904-827-6960 / 60 Davis Pond Blvd, Fruit Cove, FL 32259 / www.sjcpls.org ACT/SAT Classes For Teens January 31, 5pm and 6:30pm The Friends of the Bartram Trail Library will be offering ACT and SAT Prep Classes on Tuesday evenings beginning January 31. The SAT five class series will meet at 5pm and the ACT five class series will meet at 6:30pm. The practice exam for both classes is February 28 from 5pm to 7:45pm.

On the following Tuesday, March 7, students will have the opportunity to review their practice tests with their instructors. Please contact the Friends of the Library at folbtl@gmail.com for registration information. Registration packets will be available at the Circulation Desk.

Bartram Trail Branch / 904-827-6960 / 60 Davis Pond Blvd, Fruit Cove, FL 32259 / www.sjcpls.org Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

Students have TEACHERS. Parents have... the PARENT ACADEMY!

2017 Spring

Course Catalog

Student Achievement Parenting & Advocacy Personal & Individual Growth Dates, times and locations are accurate at time of publication; courses listed in this guide are subject to change.

Visit www.duvalschools.org/ ParentAcademy or call 904.390.2960 to verify and register.

JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 13

Students have TEACHERS. Parents have...the PARENT ACADEMY! The Parent Academy is a free family resource that offers courses for parents, caregivers, and community members to empower them to better support students academically and navigate the school system! Courses are offered in three strands:

Student Achievement

Parenting & Advocacy

Academic Support and Services

Parenting Skills and Advocacy Tools

Personal & Individual Growth Improve both Personally and Professionally

2017 Spring Schedule All Parent Academy courses are free of charge. Refreshments and childcare are provided at select courses.

No more wondering what to do on their homework, what rights you have with your child’s IEP, how many credits they need to graduate, and all while attaining your personal goals as well. Register for a course today! Call 904.390.2960 Email: ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org.

Visit www.duvalschools.org/ParentAcademy.

Student Achievement

ELEMENTARY MATHEMATICS: PARENT PARTNERSHIPS FOR SUCCESS

ACHIEVE 3000

Presented by: DCPS Staff So your child uses the Achieve 3000 program at home – but what does that really mean? This course will show parents how to best utilize the Achieve 3000 program and review the reports associated with their progress, to determine how to boost student achievement. (Used by students in grades 3-12).

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/31/17

Andrew Robinson Elementary School 101 West 12th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 03/07/17

Westview K-8 School 5270 Connie Jean Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

ATTENDANCE AND ACADEMICS: A PERFECT RELATIONSHIP

Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will review data associated with student attendance rates and its impact on student achievement.

It will also cover state statutes that govern attendance policies and strategies that can be helpful in improving school attendance rates for students.

Date

Location

Time

Wednesday, 02/01/17

Duncan U. Fletcher High School 700 Seagate Avenue, Neptune Beach, FL 32266

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

DEAFNESS 101: STRATEGIES TO IMPLEMENT FOR YOUR DEAF OR HARD OF HEARING CHILD Presented by: DCPS/FDLRS, Child Find This course will provide participants information about strategies they can utilize to assist their student in the classroom and at home.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 02/07/17

Parent Services FDLRS/Child Find Exceptional Education DCPS Building 4600, 4124 Blvd. Center Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32207

4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

“DUAL ENROLLMENT” RACE TO 60

Presented by: FSCJ Staff This course provides information on the qualifications for Dual Enrollment.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 02/16/17

Robert E. Lee High School 1200 South McDuff Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32205

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 03/28/17

First Coast High School 590 Duval Station Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Page 14 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

Presented by: DCPS Staff Come explore how mathematics instruction has changed and how students are being prepared to: understand how mathematics works, be able to work fluently with numbers, and become lifelong mathematicians. This course will expose you to math content your child will experience, and provide tips on how to help them be successful.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 02/02/17

Highlands Elementary School 1000 DePaul Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32218

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, 02/23/17

Pinedale Elementary School 4229 Edison Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, 04/04/17

Ruth N. Upson Elementary School 1090 Dancy Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

FINANCIAL AID 101

Presented by: DCPS Staff This course is designed to help families understand the financial aid process and participants will have the opportunity to complete both the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as well as the Florida Financial Application.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/10/17

Englewood High School 4412 Barnes Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Thursday, 02/07/17

Goodwill Industries 4527 Lenox Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32205

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, 02/15/17

Westside High School 5530 Firestone Road, Jacksonville, FL 32244

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Monday, 02/27/17

Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church 1118 West Beaver St, Jacksonville, FL 32204

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 03/14/17

Jean Ribault High School 3701 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Thursday, 03/30/17

Jacksonville Urban League 903 Union Street West, Jacksonville, FL 32204

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Monday, 04/10/17

Sandalwood High School 2750 John Prom Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, 04/26/17

St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church 3738 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 05/09/17

First Coast High School 590 Duval Station Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

HOW TO HELP MY CHILD AT HOME WITH READING AND WRITING?

Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will provide information and strategies to participants that will assist them with helping their Middle and/or High School student at home with reading and writing.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 01/12/17

Arlington Middle School 8141 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, 02/28/17

Edward H. White High School 1700 Old Middleburg Road North, Jacksonville, FL 32210

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

MAKING MATH FUN

Presented by: DCPS Staff Are you looking for a fun way to boost your child’s early math skills? If so this session is you! We will define the critical areas of early math including number sense, geometry, measurement, spatial relations and math vocabulary. You will learn practical games and activities that can easily be done with your child to boost their math knowledge. Together we can make sure learning math is a fun part of your preschooler’s day!

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 02/09/17

Martin Luther King Elementary School 8801 Lake Placid Drive East, Jacksonville, FL 32208

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Monday, 03/13/17

J. Allen Axson Elementary School 4763 Sutton Park Court, Jacksonville, FL 32224

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 04/25/17

Timucuan Elementary School 5429 110th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32244

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

PRIORITIZING MILESTONES IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Presented by: Parent Academy Staff/DCPS Learn how to set goals to be successful through Elementary School and upon entrance into Middle School.

STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS ON THE MIDDLE SCHOOL MATHEMATICS FSA AND EOCs

Presented by: DCPS Staff Explore Digits and Eureka Math curriculum along with i-Ready resources for the year. Get the latest information on curriculum updates and the impact the adjustments will have on the students along with the opportunity to experience the life of a student in a 6-8 mathematics course.

Date

Location

Time

Monday, 02/06/17

Kirby-Smith Middle School 2034 Hubbard Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Monday, 03/13/17

Twin Lakes Academy Middle School 8050 Point Meadows Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

TEST TAKING STRATEGIES THAT WORK

Presented by: Parent Academy Staff/DCPS This course will include ways to master reading skills that can be used to reach proficiency on classroom and standardized tests.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 02/16/17

St. Clair Evans Academy 5443 Moncrief Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

THE POWER OF “YET”

Presented by: DCPS Staff Young children can learn to be confident and resilient. We will be discussing the power of the word “yet” and how one simple word can help prevent failure. Instead of thinking “I can’t do it” we will be discussing ways to help children think “I can’t do it yet”. Adults and children who learn to value learning and develop a growth mindset are more likely to be successful when facing a challenge.

Date

Location

Time

Wednesday, 01/25/17

Hyde Grove Elementary School 2056 Lane Avenue South, Jacksonville, FL 32210

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/10/17

Parkwood Heights Elementary School 1709 Lansdowne Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32211

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Monday, 02/13/17

Richard L. Brown Elementary School 1535 Milnor Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday, 03/15/17

St. Clair Evans Academy 5443 Moncrief Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, 03/16/17

Cedar Hills Elementary School 6534 Ish Brant Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

THE WORLD OF DUAL LANGUAGE

PRIORITIZING MILESTONES IN HIGH SCHOOL

Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will provide information on the Dual Language program and its continuum.

Presented by: Parent Academy Staff/DCPS Learn how to set goals to be successful throughout High School and beyond.

Date

Location

Time

Wednesday, 01/18/17

Samuel W. Wolfson High School 7000 Powers Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32217

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 01/24/17

St. Stephen AME Church 913 West 5th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, 03/16/17

A. Phillip Randolph Career Academies 1157 Golfair Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR MINORITY STUDENTS

Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will introduce parents to UNCF Scholarship opportunities and application requirements.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/31/17

Robert E. Lee High School 1200 South McDuff Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32205

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS ON THE HIGH SCHOOL MATHEMATICS FSA AND EOCs

Presented by: DCPS Staff Explore strategies for student success on the Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2 FSA End of Course Exams.

Date

Location

Time

Wednesday, 01/18/17

William M. Raines High School 3663 Raines Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, 03/30/17

Duncan U. Fletcher High School 700 Seagate Avenue, Neptune Beach, FL 32266

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Date

Location

Time

Wednesday, 02/15/17

West Riverside Elementary School 2801 Herschel Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

TRANSITION TO KINDERGARTEN

Presented by: DCPS Staff Is your young child ready for kindergarten? What will kindergarten teachers expect your child to know?

What can you do over the summer to prevent learning loss? This session will review kindergarten standards and discuss activities that families can do at home to ensure kindergarten readiness.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 02/16/17

George W. Carver Elementary School 2854 W. 45th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, 03/02/17

John Love Elementary School 1531 Winthorp Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, 04/12/17

Hyde Grove Elementary School 2056 Lane Avenue South, Jacksonville, FL 32210

4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, 05/04/17

Oakland Terrace Apartments (Inside Community Room) 887 Bridier Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

TRANSITION TO MIDDLE SCHOOL

Presented by: DCPS Staff This course provides information for a smooth transition from Elementary to Middle School.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/24/17

Hendricks Avenue Elementary School 3400 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207

6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 15

TRANSITION TO HIGH SCHOOL

UNDERSTANDING THE FLORIDA STANDARDS ASSESSMENT: MIDDLE SCHOOL READING AND WRITING

Presented by: DCPS Staff This course provides information for a smooth transition from Middle to High School.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/10/17

Highlands Middle School 10913 Pine Estates Rd. E., Jacksonville, FL 32218

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, 01/12/17

Baldwin Middle/ High School 291 Mill Street West, Baldwin, FL 32234

Thursday, 01/12/17

Presented by: DCPS Staff Learn how to assist Middle School Students in the areas of Reading and Writing on the Florida Standards Assessment.

Date

Location

Time

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 02/15/17

Matthew Gilbert Middle School 1424 Franklin Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Matthew Gilbert Middle School 1424 Franklin St., Jacksonville, FL 32206

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 03/15/17

Landmark Middle School 101 Kernan Blvd. North, Jacksonville, FL 32225

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, 01/12/17

Landmark Middle School/Kernan Middle School 101 Kernan Blvd. North, Jacksonville, FL 32225

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, 01/12/17

Joseph Stilwell Middle School 7840 Burma Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32221

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, 01/12/17

Westview K-8 School 5270 Connie Jean Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32210

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, 01/17/17

Lake Shore Middle School 2519 Bayview Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32210

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, 01/18/17

Grand Park Education Center 2335 West 18th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

9:00 - 10:30 a.m.

Thursday, 01/19/17

Darnell Cookman Middle School/High School 1701 North Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

Thursday, 01/19/17

Alfred I. duPont Middle School 2710 duPont Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32217

Thursday, 01/19/17

WHAT DOES INCLUSION LOOK LIKE?

Presented by: DCPS/FDLRS, Child Find If your child has an IEP and is served in the general education classroom, this training is for you!

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 03/14/17

Parent Services FDLRS/Child Find Exceptional Education DCPS, 4124 Blvd. Center Drive, Building 4600, Jacksonville, FL 32207

4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

WORLD LANGUAGE AND CULTURES

Presented by: DCPS Staff Come get exposure to world language instructional strategies, cultural information, and the value of second language acquisition.

Date

Location

Time

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, 04/13/17

First Coast High School 590 Duval Station Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Oceanway Middle School 143 Oceanway Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32218

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, 05/18/17

Samuel W. Wolfson High School 7000 Powers Avenue., Jacksonville, FL 32217

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, 01/19/17

Jean Ribault Middle School 3610 Ribault Scenic Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32208

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Parenting & Advocacy

Thursday, 01/26/17

Southside Middle School 2948 Knights Lane E., Jacksonville, FL 32216

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

ALL ABOUT BULLYING

Thursday, 01/26/17

Mandarin Middle School 5100 Hood Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32257

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

UNDERSTANDING THE FLORIDA STANDARDS ASSESSMENT: ELEMENTARY READING AND WRITING

Presented by: DCPS Staff Learn how to assist Elementary School Students in the areas of Reading and Writing on the Florida Standards Assessment.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/24/17

Pinedale Elementary School 4229 Edison Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Monday, 03/06/17

Thomas Jefferson Elementary School 8233 Nevada Street, Jacksonville, FL 32220

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

UNDERSTANDING THE FLORIDA STANDARDS ASSESSMENT: HIGH SCHOOL READING AND WRITING

Presented by: DCPS Staff Learn how to assist High School Students in the areas of Reading and Writing on the Florida Standards Assessment.

Presented by: Parent Academy Staff/ DCPS This course will review the warning signs and descriptions of behavior associated with bullying for both the victim and the bully, the laws associated with bullying, and DCPS policies and procedures. This course will also provide a description of a safe and supportive environment, while offering resources for both students and their parents.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 03/09/17

The Bridge of Northeast Florida 1824 North Pearl Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday, 04/19/17

Highlands Middle School 10913 Pine Estates Road East, Jacksonville, FL 32218

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Thursday, 05/18/17

Edward H. White High School 1700 Old Middleburg Road North, Jacksonville, FL 32210

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

ANGER MANAGEMENT AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION

Presented by: Parent Academy Staff/ DCPS This course will assist in obtaining knowledge on how past learning can influence present behavior.

It also will discuss current trends and how they impact potential future societal issues.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 01/26/17

St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church 3738 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/17/17

Atlantic Coast High School 9735 R. G. Skinner Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, 02/09/17

One Love Christian Center 2960 Edison Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Monday, 04/03/17

Frank H. Peterson Academies 7450 Wilson Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32210

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 05/16/17

S.P. Livingston Elementary School 1128 Barber Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

The Duval County Public Schools’ Parent Academy is looking for PARENT LEADERS!!!

The distinguished role of the Parent Leader is to assist Parent Academy staff with the successful implementation of the Parent Academy initiative. Parent Leaders may be utilized to facilitate or monitor Parent Academy courses, or compile Parent Academy data to ensure the effectiveness of our course-offerings.

Parent Leaders are individuals (parents, caregivers and community members) who have gained knowledge or have a level of expertise in one or more areas of course topics offered.

Page 16 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

Those who are interested in becoming a Parent Leader must show demonstrated leadership ability, and complete the following: • Two (2) courses listed under the Student Achievement strand, • Three (3) courses listed under the Parenting and Advocacy strand, • One (1) course listed under the Personal and Individual Growth strand, and Visit www.duvalschools.org/ParentAcademy for more info

BREAKFAST LEARNING SERIES

Presented by: Family Support Services This course will share helpful information while providing a networking opportunity to individuals raising children and professionals who help parents. Each session covers a different topic.

Date

Location

Wednesdays, Edward Waters College, Schell Sweet Community Center 01/25/17, 1697 Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209 02/15/17, 03/15/17, 04/19/17.

05/17/17

HOW TO HAVE A SUCCESSFUL FAMILY

Presented by: DCPS Staff Knowing we all can improve, this course emphasizes self-inventory on the status of family and provides tools to ensure success, not perfection.

Time

Date

Location

Time

9:00 - 10:30 a.m.

Thursday, 02/16/17

Pine Estates Elementary School 10741 Pine Estates Road East, Jacksonville, FL 32218

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 04/18/17

Jeff Davis Middle School 7050 Melvin Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, 05/25/17

WellCare, Inc. 5115 Normandy Blvd. #1, Jacksonville, FL 32205

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

COMMUNITY AND STATE BASED RESOURCES AVAILABLE FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED CHILD

MY PARENT, MY FRIEND

Presented by: DCPS/FDLRS, Child Find This course will inform participants about resources available to assist your visually impaired child at home and at school.

Presented by: DCPS Staff This course provides parents with the tools to address challenging behavior and setting boundaries that are both warm and demanding.

Date

Location

Time

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 01/19/17

Parent Services FDLRS/Child Find Exceptional Education DCPS 4124 Blvd. Center Drive, Building 4600, Jacksonville, FL 32207

4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Monday, 01/30/17

John E. Ford K-8 School 1137 Cleveland Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

RESOLVING CONFLICT: HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR CHILD LIKE A CHAMP

ESCALATION WORKSHOP

Presented by: OneLove Foundation This course will empower participants to assist students in understanding the warning signs of abuse, while also promoting healthy relationships.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 04/13/17

Florida Baptist Children’s Home 2300 Bartram Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Monday, 05/22/17

Sandalwood High School 2750 John Prom Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

HEALTHY MINDS, HEALTHY KIDS

Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will provide parents with understanding the importance of school and community based resources to serve the WHOLE child.

Presented by: Parent Academy Staff/DCPS Gives a proactive approach in communication and developing positive decision-making skills and outcomes.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 03/14/17

Victory Pointe (In the Manager’s Office) 6750 Ramona Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

UNLOCKING THE PIECES OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

Presented by: Children’s Home Society This course will increase parent’s awareness of behavioral health, as well as, increase their ability to access behavioral health services to help their child academically, emotionally and behaviorally.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 01/12/17

St Clair Evans Elementary School 5443 Moncrief Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 01/19/17

Normandy Village Elementary School 8257 Herlong Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, 02/09/17

Rutledge Pearson Elementary School 4346 Roanoke Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32208

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, 02/16/17

Bayview Elementary School 3257 Lake Shore Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32210

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, 03/09/17

Martin Luther King Elementary School 8801 Lake Placid Drive East, Jacksonville, FL 32208

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, 03/16/17

Jacksonville Heights Elementary School 7750 Tempest Street South, Jacksonville, FL 32244

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, 04/13/17

S.A. Hull Elementary School 7528 Hull Street, Jacksonville, FL 32219

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, 05/11/17

Sally B. Mathis Elementary School 3501 Winton Drive, Jacksonville FL 32208

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

HOW TO BECOME A DCPS PARENT LEADER

Presented by: Parent Academy Staff/DCPS The Parent Academy is always looking for great Parent Leaders! Parent Leaders are those who will support other parents, empower them, and advocate for the Parent Academy overall. February is National Leadership month and we will celebrate by providing information about the duties and requirements to participate in the Parent Leader programs. Come and learn about being a Parent Leader.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 02/07/17

Hendricks Avenue Elementary School 3400 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207

8:00 - 8:45 a.m.

Thursday, 02/16/17

Thomas Jefferson Elementary School 8233 Nevada Street, Jacksonville, FL 32220

8:00 - 8:45 a.m.

Thursday, 02/23/17

St. Clair Evans Academy 5443 Moncrief Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209

8:00 - 8:45 a.m.

Tuesday, 02/28/17

Arlington Elementary School 1201 University Blvd. North, Jacksonville, FL 32211

8:00 - 8:45 a.m.

HOW TO RAISE TODAY’S TEENAGERS TO BE PRODUCTIVE CITIZENS

Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will provide information to help keep your teen on a positive track and away from trending pitfalls such as decreased school performance, drug use, petty crimes, and sexting.

Date

Location

Time

Wednesday, 04/12/17

Jean Ribault High School 3701 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

2016-2017 DISCOVER DUVAL SCHOOL TOURS School Name

Board Member

Date(s) & Times

Mandarin High School

L. Hershey - District VII

Thursday, January 19, 2017 at 10:00 a.m.

John Love Elementary School

P. Wright - District IV

Friday, January 27, 2017 at 9:00 a.m.

Sandalwood High School

A. Smith Juarez - District III

Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 10:00 a.m.

Fort Caroline Middle School

C. Grymes - District I

Friday, March 3, 2017 at 9:00 a.m.

Mayport Middle School

S. Shine - District II

Thursday, March 16, 2017 at 10:00 a.m.

Carter G. Woodson Elementary School

W. Jones - District V

Thursday, April 6, 2017 at 9:00 a.m.

Enterprise Learning Academy

B. Couch - District VI

Thursday, May 4, 2017 at 9:00 a.m.

JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 17

Personal & Individual Growth

DAD ALL DAY (DAD)

BEING A BETTER YOU: ESTABLISHING AND ATTAINING LONG AND SHORT TERM GOALS Presented by: Parent Academy/ DCPS Explore ways to enhance your life using motivational, coping and healthy techniques in reaching personal or professional milestones.

Date

Location

Time

Wednesday, 05/24/17

Colonial Village (in the Community Center) 9500 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

BEFORE YOU TIE THE KNOT

Presented by: UF/IFAS Extension This 5-part series is designed to help premarital couples 1) recognize their own and their partner’s needs; 2) negotiate conflict successfully; 3) communicate effectively; 4) manage money skillfully; 5) develop and maintain healthy lifestyles; and 6) parent positively. The course meets the requirements of Duval County Circuit Court for couples to receive a $37.50 discount on their marriage license and waive the 3-day waiting period for the license.

Date

Location

Time

Mondays, 01/09/17, 01/23/17, 01/30/17, 02/06/17, 02/13/17

J.E.B. Stuart Middle School 4815 Wesconnett Blvd., Jacksonville FL 32210

5:30 - 8:00 p.m.

BORROWING BASICS

Presented by: RealSense for Prosperity Guard against predatory lending practices! This course provides information on how to distinguish between different loan, rent-to-own, payday loans, and refund anticipation services.

Date

Location

Time

Monday, 03/06/17

Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Library 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Thursday, 05/11/17

Regency Square Branch Library 9900 Regency Square Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32225

7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

BUILDING AND INCREASING CREDIT

Presented by: RealSense for Prosperity This course will provide techniques on how to build your credit or increase your credit score.

Date

Location

Time

Wednesday, 02/22/17

Main Library (The Lounge @ 303 North) 303 Laura Street North, Jacksonville, FL 32202

12:00 - 1:00 p.m.

Monday, 02/27/17

Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Library 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, 05/24/17

Main Library (The Lounge @ 303 North) 303 Laura Street North, Jacksonville, FL 32202

12:00 - 1:00 p.m.

COUPONING BASICS

Presented by: RealSense for Prosperity Keys to saving money! Gain helpful information on price savings, store savings programs and coupons.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 03/09/17

Regency Square Branch Library 9900 Regency Square Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32225

7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 03/22/17

Main Library (The Lounge @ 303) 303 Laura Street North, Jacksonville, FL 32202

12:00 - 1:00 p.m.

To learn more or register online go to: www.duvalschools.org/ParentAcademy For additional registration options: E-mail ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org or call the Department of Family and Community Engagement (FACE) at 904.390.2960 Page 18 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

Presented by: Family Support Services Support group for formerly incarcerated dads.

Date

Location

Time

Saturdays, 01/07/17, 02/04/17, 03/04/17, 04/01/17, 05/06/17

Edward Waters College, Schell Sweet Community Center, 1697 Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209

1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

LIFELONG LEARNING: SUMMER FUN FOR CAREGIVERS

Presented by: Brookdale Crown Point This course provides information on how to relax and have fun for the summer while remaining a caregiver.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 03/09/17

Brookdale Crown Point 10050 Old. St. Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257

1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

MANAGING YOUR MONEY IN TOUGH TIMES

Presented by: RealSense for Prosperity Learn how to decrease spending, increase income and get tips for reducing expenses.

Date

Location

Time

Monday, 01/09/17

Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Library 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, 01/25/17

Main Library (The Lounge @ 303) 303 Laura Street North, Jacksonville, FL 32202

12:00 - 1:00 p.m.

MICROSOFT EXCEL 1

Presented by: The Jacksonville Public Library/DCPS Microsoft Excel 2010 1 provides instruction on Microsoft Excel at the beginner level. Participants will learn how to create simple spreadsheets using formulas and formatting.

Date

Location

Time

Saturday, 01/14/17

Pablo Creek Regional Library 13295 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246

10:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 01/17/17

Main Library, 303 Laura Street North, Jacksonville, FL 32202

5:00 - 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, 01/24/17

Beaches Branch Library, 600 3rd Street, Neptune Beach, FL 32266

2:00 - 3:30 p.m.

Friday, 01/27/17

Pablo Creek Regional Library 13295 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246

10:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

Sunday, 01/29/17

Main Library 303 Laura Street North, Jacksonville, FL 32202

1:15 - 2:45 p.m.

Tuesday, 01/31/17

Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Library 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

11:00 a.m. 1:30 p.m.

MICROSOFT EXCEL 2

Presented by: The Jacksonville Public Library/DCPS Microsoft Excel 2010 2 provides instruction on Microsoft Excel at the intermediate level. Participants will create more complex formulas and work with basic functions such as sorting data, filtering data, and creating charts.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 01/12/17

South Mandarin Branch Library 12125 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32223

6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, 01/21/17

Pablo Creek Regional Library, 13295 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246

10:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

Saturday, 01/21/17

Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Library 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday, 01/24/17

Southeast Regional Library 10599 Deerwood Park Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 01/31/17

Beaches Branch Library 600 3rd Street, Neptune Beach, FL 32266

2:00 - 3:30 p.m.

Friday, 02/03/17

Pablo Creek Regional Library 13295 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246

10:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

MICROSOFT OFFICE 2010: POWERPOINT 1

Presented by: The Jacksonville Public Library/DCPS Microsoft PowerPoint 2010 1 provides instruction on Microsoft PowerPoint at the beginner level.

Participants learn how to create a simple presentation, create, edit and save slides. Come learn how to insert clip art, apply designs, work with views and run a slide show.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/10/17

Highlands Regional Library 1826 Dunn Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32218

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, 01/24/17

Main Library 303 Laura Street North, Jacksonville, FL 32202

5:00 - 6:30 p.m.

MICROSOFT OFFICE 2010: POWERPOINT 2

Presented by: The Jacksonville Public Library/DCPS Microsoft PowerPoint 2010 2 provides instruction on Microsoft PowerPoint at the intermediate level.

Participants learn how to use word art and shapes; animate text and objects, and use audio and video in presentations.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/17/17

Highlands Regional Library 1826 Dunn Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32218

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, 01/26/17

Main Library, 303 Laura Street North, Jacksonville, FL 32202

4:00 - 5:30 p.m.

MICROSOFT OFFICE 2010: WORD 1

Presented by: The Jacksonville Public Library/DCPS Microsoft Word 2010 1 provides instruction on Microsoft Word at the beginner level. Participants will learn to open the program and find basic functions. Learn to create, edit, save and print documents.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/10/17

Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Library 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

11:00 a.m. 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday, 01/10/17

Main Library, 303 Laura Street North, Jacksonville, FL 32202

5:00 - 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, 01/12/17

Mandarin Branch Library, 3330 Kori Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257

10:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

Thursday, 01/12/17

Pablo Creek Regional Library 13295 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Monday, 01/23/17

Dallas Graham Branch Library 2304 Myrtle Avenue North, Jacksonville, FL 32209

4:00 - 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, 02/04/17

Pablo Creek Regional Library 13295 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246

10:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

MICROSOFT OFFICE 2010: WORD 2

Presented by: The Jacksonville Public Library/DCPS Microsoft Word 2010 2 provides instruction on Microsoft Word at the intermediate level. Participants will learn about more advanced MS Word functions such as bulleted and numbered lists, columns, tables, and inserting images.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/17/17

Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Library 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

11:00 a.m. 1:30 p.m.

Thursday, 01/19/17

Mandarin Branch Library, 3330 Kori Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257

10:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

MICROSOFT OFFICE 2010: WORD 3

MICROSOFT EXCEL 3

Presented by: The Jacksonville Public Library/DCPS Microsoft Excel 2010 3 provides instruction on Microsoft Excel at the advanced level. Participants will learn to retrieve and analyze data. Learn how to use the VLOOKUP function, create PivotTables and Pivot Charts, create Spark lines, and use conditional formatting and more.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 01/19/17

South Mandarin Branch Library 12125 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32223

6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, 02/02/17

South Mandarin Branch Library 12125 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32223

2:00 - 3:30 p.m.

Saturday, 02/04/17

Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Library 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

Presented by: The Jacksonville Public Library/DCPS Microsoft Word 2010 3 provides instruction on Microsoft Word at the advanced level. Participants will learn advanced MS Word functions such as mail merge, table of contents, advanced formatting, headers, footers, and much more.

Date

Location

Time

Tuesday, 01/24/17

Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Library 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

11:00 a.m. 1:30 p.m.

JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 19

MOMS: EXPLORING ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Presented by: Mygani Are you a stay at home mom wanting to start your own business but not sure where to start? This class will give you the resources you need to get started in gaining financial stability while still keeping your family first.

SPEAKING WITH CONFIDENCE

Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will teach participants how to maximize their potential by networking, perfecting their public speaking skills and ensuring an unforgettable first impression.

Date

Location

Time

Date

Location

Time

Monday, 01/23/17

Highlands Public Library 1826 Dunn Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32218

6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, 02/07/17

WellCare, Inc. 5115 Normandy Blvd. #1, Jacksonville, FL 32205

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, 02/23/17

Victory Pointe (In the Manager’s Office) 6750 Ramona Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 04/12/17

First Baptist Church of Oakland 1025 Jessie Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

SUCCESSFULLY LANDING THE RIGHT JOB

MONEY MATTERS

Presented by: RealSense for Prosperity Understand how to manage money and identify ways to decrease spending and increase income.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 04/27/17

Regency Square Branch Library 9900 Regency Square Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32225

7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Monday, 05/08/17

Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Library 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Presented by: DCPS Staff This course will provide participants with the information to create the right resume, handle tough questions in a job interview and how to be prepared to successfully land the right job.

Date

Location

Time

Wednesday, 04/05/17

Victory Pointe (In the Manager’s Office) 6750 Ramona Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205

11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

THE FOUNDATIONS OF ESTABLISHING A BUSINESS

Presented by: Parent Academy Staff/ DCPS This course will provide participants with the basic information on starting a small business. Participants will receive information on how to obtain a business license, how to get resources to start a business and begin writing your business plan within this course.

MONEY SMART FOR YOUNG ADULTS-CHARGE IT RIGHT

Presented by: RealSense for Prosperity This course will provide information about credit cards and how to use them responsibly.

Date

Location

Time

Date

Location

Time

Wednesday, 04/26/17

Regency Square Branch Library 9900 Regency Square Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32225

6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, 02/08/17

MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation, 1096 West 6th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

12:00 - 1:00 p.m.

Wednesday, 03/29/17

A. Phillip Randolph Career Academies 1157 Golfair Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32209

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

MONEY SMART FOR YOUNG ADULTS-PAYING FOR COLLEGE AND CARS

Presented by: RealSense for Prosperity This course will provide general information on installment loans, including car loans and student loans.

Date

Location

Time

Wednesday, 02/15/17

Regency Square Branch Library 9900 Regency Square Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32225

6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

MONEY SMART FOR YOUNG ADULTS-PAY YOURSELF FIRST Presented by: RealSense for Prosperity Identify ways to save money and options to save toward your goals.

Date

Location

Time

Mondays, 01/23/17, 04/24/17

Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Library 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

ROSETTA STONE: LEARN ENGLISH/SPANISH

Presented by: DCPS- Center for Language and Culture (ESOL) At your own pace, learn English or Spanish using the individualized Rosetta Stone software.

(Courses will run January 09, 2017 - May 25, 2017)

Presented by: DCPS- Center for Language and Culture (ESOL) Information for Immigrants. (Courses run January 09, 2017- May 25, 2017)

Date

Location

Time

Mondays (excluding holidays)

The Center for Language and Culture (CLC); on the campus of Kings Trail Elementary 7401 Old Kings Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32217

10:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

THE JOURNEY OF DEMENTIA, INCLUDING MUSIC THERAPY IDEAS

Presented by: Brookdale Crown Point This course will provide participants with information on coping with a loved one who is showing sign of dementia, including at home therapies that can be used.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 01/12/17

Brookdale Crown Point 10050 Old. St. Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257

1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

WOMEN’S CIRCLE

Date

Location

Time

Tuesdays, (excluding holidays)

The Center for Language and Culture (CLC); on the campus of Kings Trail Elementary 7401 Old Kings Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32217

10:00 a.m.

-12:00 p.m. and/or 4:00 - 5:30 p.m., and/or 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesdays, (excluding holidays)

West Riverside Elementary School 2801 Herschel Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205

4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Thursdays, (excluding holidays)

The Center for Language and Culture (CLC); on the campus of Kings Trail Elementary 7401 Old Kings Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32217

10:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

Page 20 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

THE IMMIGRANT GUIDE: WHAT EVERY IMMIGRANT NEEDS TO KNOW

Presented by: DCPS - Center for Language and Culture (ESOL) A networking meeting to empower moms and women! Share with us your services, abilities, skills, and empower other ladies in a relaxing and a safe environment.

The Third Friday of every month!

Date

Location

Time

Fridays, 01/20/17, 02/17/17, 03/10/17, 04/21/17, 05/19/17

The Center for Language and Culture (CLC); on the campus of Kings Trail Elementary 7401 Old Kings Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32217

10:00 11:30 a.m.

YOUR LIFE YOUR LEGACY: 4 SIMPLE STEPS FOR END-OF-LIFE PLANNING Presented by: Brookdale Crown Point This course provides information on how to prepare the final arrangements for a loved one.

Date

Location

Time

Thursday, 02/09/17

Brookdale Crown Point 10050 Old. St. Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257

1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

EDUCATION

CISV: Helping Form Responsible Global Citizens

T

RIVERSIDE Presbyterian Day School

Now accepting 2017 - 18 applications for Three-year-olds - 6th Grade Join us for our Admission Coffee on Thursday, January 12, 2017 and discover the distinctions of a Riverside education.

he concept is simple: peace through friendship. And it all starts with 11-year-olds.

CISV is an independent, nonprofit, international program that promotes world peace through programming for children. Through innovative, non-formal “learning by doing” programs, children from different parts of the world live together and learn to appreciate one another by finding similarities and celebrating differences. It began with an original and unique program for 11-year-olds called Villages.

The Village is a four-week-long multi-cultural, multi-lingual, international residential camp consisting of delegations of two boys and two girls, all 11 years of age and from different countries, accompanied by an adult leader.

Primary programs include: • Village: Four-week international camp for 11-year-olds.

• Interchange: Family-centered exchange between two international chapters.

• Step-Up: Three-week international camp for 14 to 15 year-olds.

• Youth Meeting: Short camps featuring themes for youth to explore intercultural issues.

• FACES of Jacksonville: Replicates CISV Village atmosphere. Delegations from the Jacksonville area promote cultural understanding and develop city leaders. 2014 was the 11th anniversary.

• Junior Branch: Those from the ages of 11 to 25 develop intercultural and leadership skills by organizing monthly educational activities (extends reach to local children who do not travel).

Formerly called Children’s International Summer Villages (the name was changed as the programs expanded), it was created by American child psychologist Doris Allen, who, after the carnage of World War II, wanted to promote world peace.

She felt that 11-year-olds were the perfect age for such a program because they have not yet formed prejudicial cultural stereotypes and are mature enough to attend a month-long camp away from home.

In 2016, the local chapter sent more than 50 representatives to other countries including: Austria, Finland, Denmark, Norway, Italy, France and Canada. This year’s ambitious agenda includes sending participants to 14 locations around the world.

Today the organization has grown into a federation of 60 member associations with more than 200 chapters around the world.

Potential participants and parents can learn more about CISV and its educational programs at one of these “CISV 101” sessions in Jacksonville:

It offers a blend of international camp-based, family exchange and local community programs for youth from 11 to 25 with the aim “to help participants develop the skills they need to become informed, responsible and active global citizens and make a difference in their communities and the world.” Specific education goals include developing leadership skills, self-awareness, intercultural awareness and positive attitudes towards others. The glue that underpins all of the programs is friendship, in line with the founding belief that peace is possible through friendship and mutual understanding.

• 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, Happy Acres Ranch, 7117 Crane Ave. • 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8, Southeast Branch Library, 10599 Deerwood Park • 9:15 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, Happy Acres Ranch, 7117 Crane Ave. • 7:15 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, Riverside Presbyterian Day School, 830 Oak St. • 7:15 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, Riverside Presbyterian Day School, 830 Oak St.

830 Oak Street

|

Jacksonville, FL 32204

|

904.353.3459

|

www.rpds.com

Grades middle through high school Low student to teacher ratio Standard high school diploma Multi-sensory instruction Outdoor science laboratory McKay & Gardiner Scholarship participant Accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools

To learn more visit our website or call

www.greenwoodjax.org 904-726-5000

Currently enrolling new students. Call today for a campus tour.

Also to learn more, visit one of the CISV websites: cisvjax.org, cisvusa.org, or cisv.org. j

CISV Jacksonville was founded in 1976. It is one of 21 CISV chapters in the U.S. and the only chapter in Florida.

JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 21

EDUCATION

21st Century Educational Opportunities

H

ow to maintain our American desire to remain free and great through 21st century education?

“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.”

—Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre 21st century educational opportunities can equal the playing field toward the American dream of achieving “liberty and justice for all.” 21st century tools can support all students toward their desire of having a voice in their education. Actively rather than passively learning. These tools include free, easily accessible, good information found online. You are familiar with some of them: periodicals, blogs, encyclopedias, dictionaries, documentaries, Youtube videos, Ted-talks, educational, scientific, historical references and many more auditory, and visual products.

Project Based Learning (PBL) is designed to systematically build competence and security in how you think. Some of the components include problem solving, creative thinking, evaluating resources, seeing perspective, arguing your case, deciphering good information from bad information, group cooperation, oral and visual presentations, teaching, leading and much more. Important to a quality PBL is building skills through strength based grouping and teacher facilitation.

The objective is to recognize that all students have strengths and all students have a place to use their voice. Using PBL leads students to grow and be empowered with a good self-image, academic skills and independence.

In the 21st century we no longer need the factory

model that was established in the early 19th century, where subjects were compartmentalized, students placed in homogeneous groupings based on test scores that rely on memory and subject content often referring to one cultural focus. But this 19th century model is STILL predominantly used in most schools in our nation.

Only in PBL are students developing the skills that relate to the whole person not only as a student in a classroom but as a citizen, family member and productive worker. Through 21st century learning models and tools we can realize the fullness of the American dream.

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

Our American culture of religious and entrepreneurial freedom, “justice for all” and philosophy of unity, “one nation, indivisible”, has allowed us to lead in scientific and technological innovation.

It is the foundation of our economic, medical, military and philanthropic strength. We can maintain our lead in our global relationships by committing to real change in what is considered teaching.

For more information on resources for becoming a 21st century teacher go to www.edutopia.org; www.bie.org; www.teachingchannel.org; www. jacksonvillesciencefestival.org. j Nadia Hionides Principal: The Foundation Academy Eve award winner in Education

“We cannot start over, but we can begin now, and make a new ending.”

– Zig Ziglar

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Page 22 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 23

EDUCATION

Making Learning Easier:

5 Tips to give Your Student an Advantage Establish routines and rules. Clear procedures create a home environment conducive to learning. On the other hand, lack of structure can result in a child feeling unorganized and overwhelmed. Just as your child’s teacher does at school, establish and maintain clear routines for study time at home. Once you have established and communicated those rules, hold your child to them.

Read, read, read. Simply put, a child who is a capable, confident reader will find school to be easier overall. Reading is essential in every subject, and teachers will increasingly expect your child to offer opinions on the things they have read. Make books a daily part of your lives, and encourage your child to read for fun, both aloud and independently.

Work on basic skills. If your child is struggling with basic concepts and this is causing problems in class and during homework, it may be time to investigate. Consider having your child assessed to get more details on what academic skills they may be lacking.

Encourage thinking. No matter what subject

LEGO® to the Zoo N

paid for his work), he builds his sculptures the

ew animals are coming to our zoo. your child studies, critical thinking is an important skill. Encourage your child to analyze, question They won’t have to feed them. and express opinions on all they read. When reading stories, discuss them and have your child share their thoughts and ideas. Even with subjects like math and science, teach your child to think through problems and talk about the practical application of these concepts. The more your child develops such essential higher order thinking abilities, the more capable your child will be as a student.

Foster good study habits. Many children who are otherwise capable students are hampered by disorganization and poor study skills. Teach your child the basics, such as maintaining a neat workspace and backpack, embracing a system for tracking homework and projects, and making all study and homework sessions efficient. Ask for suggestions from your child’s teacher as well.

Finally, one of the most important things parents can do to benefit their children is talk about school. It sounds simple, and it is. A small amount of effort today will help your child build a strong foundation for success. j

They’re made of plastic.

“Nature Connects,” the award-winning traveling exhibit of LEGO® animal sculptures by worldrenowned artist Sean Kenney is opening Friday, Jan. 13, at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.

same way any kid would. “… He loves sit down with a big pile of LEGO® pieces and just figure it all out.” He has more than 5 million LEGO® pieces and has written several how-to books on the subject. He says his favorite piece is the 1x1 headlight brick (“You can use it three ways!”)

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Go nose to nose with an 8-foot-tall hummingbird, see a mama polar bear and her cubs, or experience the wilds of Africa with wildebeest, zebra and rhino trio in the Savanna Blooms Garden.

Kenney, who labels himself a “professional kid,” has been building his exotic, larger-than-life creations from LEGO® bricks for more than a decade. Although he is a professional (he gets

The exhibit will be on display at the zoo, 370 Zoo Parkway, until Sunday, May 7.

The exhibit is free with Zoo admission.

To compliment the exhibit, the zoo has a new admission promotion for January: Stand up to their LEGO® discount wall: Based on their height, Zoo-goers pay $2, $4, $6 or $8 for admission Monday through Friday. j

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Page 24 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

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That’s MY Job! Kristen Michelle Wilson

ADD/ADHD without MEDICATIONS

Ringmaster, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus You are making history as the first female ringmaster with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. What excites you most about your new job?

I am so excited to inspire young women and men to pursue their dreams. Being the Ringmaster of the Greatest Show on Earth is thrilling because I get to showcase and share the talents of my friends, who are truly the most spectacular people on the planet!

What advice would you share with kids who want to pursue a career in entertainment?

A career in entertainment is just like a career in any other field- you have to work really hard and learn as much as you can. Understanding that you will not always get the lead role is important. You might just be a character in the background who doesn’t speak, but THAT part is important, just like every other role.

Every single person on a production, from cast Why did you choose this career? to crew, is equally significant. If anyone of I chose to become an entertainer because I am those elements was missing, it would change the happiest when I make other people happy. the experience for the audience. Be prepared I love to share my joy and enthusiasm with to work two different jobs: one job that you others. Being the Ringmaster is like being a probably don’t LOVE (or even like very much!) singer, actor, and a show host all at once. but will pay your bills, and a second job that doesn’t pay very well, if at all, but gives you What is your education/degree in? experience in the field you love. Ultimately, I studied music, dance, acting, multimedia just keep moving forward, keep believing production (television, movies, graphic design), in yourself, and keep working towards your sociology (how people interact in groups), goals. Pursuing your passion is really hard and international affairs (learning about life in work, but eventually, after a lot of learning and different countries). All of these things helped dedication, your dreams WILL come true! prepare me to lead the circus.

Provides a non-drug approach for diagnosing and treating ADD/ADHD, Learning disabilities, Autism and Aspergers and it is based on research that has been widely replicated all over the world.

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What did the audition consist of?

At the audition, I sang the opening song from Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Circus Xtreme called “We’re On A Quest”, which is a song about our awesome adventure. I also brought two “radio” songs to show the different styles I am able to sing.

One song was by Whitney Houston and the other was by Christina Aguilera. I read from a script and pretended to introduce “The Mighty Tabayara”, our big cat presenter and his 14 beautiful tigers.

What will be your responsibilities as Ringmaster?

As the Ringmaster, it is my job to sing the songs in the show, introduce all of the circus’ amazing acts and be the spokesperson of the show during television, radio, newspaper, and magazine interviews. I’m like a magical tour guide inviting the audience along on our exciting journey around the world to discover incredible performers, exotic animals, and amazing things you’ve never seen before.

The American Academy of Pediatricians has given neurofeedback the highest grading of effectiveness for ADD/ADHD.

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Editor’s Note: See Ringmaster Kristen Michelle Wilson when Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Circus XTREME January 19 - 22 at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. SAVE $5 on tickets. Use the code J4K17 when ordering tickets online at ticketmaster.com, by calling 1-800-7453000 or at the box office. Some restrictions apply.

JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 25

Page 26 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

St. Johns County School District News

Get Ready for Annual Six Pillars Race Force Named The fifth annual CHARACTER COUNTS! Six Pillars 6K/3K Run Walk is on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017, at 9 a.m. at Palencia Elementary School, 355 Palencia Village Dr. Race proceeds support CHARACTER COUNTS! initiatives throughout the St. Johns County School District. The run/walk is open to all ages, and the top three winners will be awarded in each of the age categories as well as the overall male and female finishers.

A cash award goes to the top three schools with the most registrants.

Winners last year were: Ocean Palms Elementary and Valley Ridge and Liberty Pines academies.

All race registrants before Jan. 14 will receive a tech t-shirt and lots of other goodies from area businesses and organizations.

Walkers and runners will enjoy a course running through the neighborhoods of Kensington and Las Calinas and can choose to participate in the 6K (3.73 miles; USATF Certified Course) or 3K (1.86 miles; USATF Certified Course) distance. At the finish line, each race participant will receive a commemorative dog tag, which is the third design in its series.

Register online at racesmith.com (Pre-Registration ends Thursday, Feb. 2 at midnight) or by mail to Christina Langston at 40 Orange Street, St. Augustine FL, 32084. Mail-in registration must be postmarked by Friday, Jan. 20th. Make all checks payable to “District Designated Accounts.” You may register and/or pick up your race packet on Feb. 3rd from 4. to 7 p.m. or on Feb. 4th from 7 to 8:30 a.m. at the race site. Cash or checks only no credit card Pre-registration fees for the 6K are $30 ($35 on race day) and $25 ($30 on race day) for the 3K.

Wednesday, Jan. 4 Tuesday, Jan. 5 Monday, Jan. 16

Technical College Head

It’s Science Fair Time

Both the 6K and 3K runners receive awards in the following categories: Overall Male and Female finishers, Male and Female Masters winners, and Chris Force, district director of Career and Technical Edutop 3 runners in the following age groups: 1-9, cation and First Coast Technical College (FCTC) assistant The Regional Science Fair is Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 10-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40First Coast Technical College, Bldg. C, 2980 Collins principal, has been selected to be the FCTC principal.

44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+.

The race will be professionally timed and scored by RaceSmith, Inc. The race will be timed using disposable, electronic tags attached to the bib number.

Runners should wear their bib number to the front, pinned at all four corners, visible, and unaltered. Printed results will be posted at the race site and live online during the race at racesmith. com. A video will also be available.

This event is produced by the CHARACTER COUNTS! Steering Committee and is presented by Beaver Toyota with support from businesses and community groups. Action News Jax CBS47/ FOX30 is the official media sponsor of this run/ walk.

The CHARACTER COUNTS! in St. Johns County Six Pillars 6K/3K Run/Walk is a member of the Run St. Augustine Race Series. See runstagustine.com for rules, information, and results.

The school district, along with area businesses, youth organizations and civic groups, selected the national character education program of CHARACTER COUNTS! as a countywide initiative to instill positive character traits in young people throughout the county. Additionally, St. Johns became the first school district in Florida to implement “Pursuing Victory With Honor” in all of its athletic programs. Character education is an important part of every school improvement Plan and a major component of the Student Code of Conduct and the school district’s strategic plan.

January Calendar

Teacher planning day, student holiday Classes resume/Second Semester begins Martin Luther King Day, student/teacher holiday

Her nomination will be presented to the school board at its Jan. 10 meeting.

Force joined the SJCSD in 2015 as the director of Career and Technical Education. Before that she served 24 years in Duval County Public Schools as a Building, Entrepreneurship and Manufacturing (BEAM) Academy lead teacher at Englewood High School, the district’s director of career and technical education, and a teacher of business and marketing and director of the Academy of Finance at Wolfson High School.

“FCTC is so valued in the school district and community, it is my honor to serve in this capacity,” said Force. “I am committed to taking a strategic approach to ensure that we are meeting the needs of students as well as workforce and economic development in the region.”

Force has a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from Florida State University and has pursued doctoral work at the University of North Florida with an emphasis in career academies and technology.

Force will replace interim Principal Cathy Mittelstadt, who also serves as associate superintendent for Student Support Services at the district.

Test Prep Need to Know The Ponte Vedra High School PTO Community Program for January is “Navigating Standardized Test Prep: Choosing between evolving tests, and figuring out what it all means for the college admissions process.”

Items to be discussed include scheduling standardized tests (SAT, ACT, Subject Tests); latest trends in testing and college admissions; navigating the ACT vs. the SAT decision; and recent changes to the SAT & ACT.

Ave., St. Augustine.

The fair is open to all 6th through 12th grade students in St. Johns County, including public, home, charter and private schools.

Winners at the school science fairs may be selected by their schools to advance to the regional level. Students can contact their school’s science fair facilitator for more information about requirements and deadlines.

See stjohns.k12.fl.us/science/fair/ for a list of school contacts.

Project categories in the fair include: Medicine and Health Sciences, Physics and Astronomy, Plant Sciences, Chemistry, Behavioral Sciences, and Environmental Sciences. Categories may be combined, based on the number of projects in each category and the number of judges available.

Winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd place and Honorable Mention) are presented for each category, when appropriate.

Placement for a top award does not guarantee that a student qualifies to compete at the state level; the regional fair’s scientific review committee retains the option of determining if a project meets the requirements for competition at the state level. Many special awards are available—each of these has its own unique criteria and may or may not be linked to placement in a particular category.

Parents are welcome to view projects/take pictures from 8:15 to 8:45 a.m. prior to the start of judging.

Project pick up is the same day from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. or after the awards ceremony scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 2, at 6:30 p.m. All events will be held at First Coast Technical College.

Can You Spell Palagonite?

The District Spelling Bee will be held on Wednesday, January 18, 2017, at 9 a.m. at First Coast Technical College, Bldg. C, located at 2980 Collins Ave., St. Augustine.

The winner will represent the district in the Florida Times-Union Regional Spelling Bee, Saturday, March 4, The session will be at the Ponte Vedra High School auditorium at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17, and is open to all. at the Main Jacksonville Library, 303 N Laura St. Presenters will be: • Dr. Catherine Snowden and Pam Ohno from College Planning Partners. Snowden was director of college planning for Ponte Vedra High School for six years. Ohno is general manager of the company that specializes in college preparation, planning, and admissions consulting services.

• Former law professor Ashleigh Barnes and Jonathan Andrew are directors of University Select, an ACT and SAT test prep company that specializes in one-on-one tutoring.

Sreeniketh Vogoti, a seventh-grade student at Fruit Cove Middle, won the 2016 district and the regional spelling bee. He was eliminated in the 9th round of the national bee. His word was palagonite: A brown, yellow, or orange volcanic glass that is interstitial material in pillow lava or in amygdules and is formedthrough the hydration of tachylyte. (Who would know?)

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Visit St. Johns County Schools online at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/schools/ for more information.

JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 27

Clay County School News Teacher of Year/Employee of Year Nominees Teacher of the Year and School-Related Employee of the Year nominees have been selected from each of the 41 schools in the district. Two winners will be selected by a panel of district and school administrators, along with local business organizations. The nominees will be honored and winners will be announced at a banquet at the Thrasher-Horne Center Jan. 24. The two winners will represent Clay County at statewide competitions this spring.

Teacher of the Year Nominees

Swimming Pen Creek Elementary Karen Skinner, Gifted Thunderbolt Elementary Treena Petrelli, Second Grade Tynes Elementary Liane Patrylo, Resource Teacher W. E. Cherry Elementary Erin Swenson, Autism Wilkinson Elementary Christina Crooms, Second Grade Wilkinson Junior High School Heidi Rothermel, Social Studies

T’was the Season The Colt Chorale from Coppergate Elementary spread a little Christmas cheer at the Penney Farms Retirement Community last month with a performance and a visit with the residents.

Carlton Frazier, Custodian Plantation Oaks Elementary Argyle Elementary Barbie Griffis, Custodian Stacy Bradley, Fourth Grade Paterson Elementary Bannerman Learning Center Lisa Kern, ESE Assistant Spencer Johnson, Intellectual Disabilities RideOut Elementary Charles E. Bennett Elementary Vernice Grossglass, Lance Addison, Sixth Grade Media Technical Assistant Clay High School Ridgeview Elementary Rita Petersen, Social Studies Cheryl Lombardo, ESE Assistant Clay Hill Elementary Ridgeview High School Yvonne Bowlin, Second Grade Sherry Hall, Principal’s Secretary New Clay County Superintendent of Clay Virtual Academy S. Bryan Jennings Elementary Lori Lawrenz, CVA Elementary School-Related Employee Maxine Johnston, Schools Addison Davis has released his Coppergate Elementary of the Year Nominees In-School Suspension Assistant transition plan, Elevate Clay, which outErika Gilbert, Guidance Counselor Shadowlawn Elementary lines the steps he will take to assess the Doctors Inlet Elementary Argyle Elementary Elizabeth Cyrus, current state of the school district and April Shipley, Third Grade Sally Nieves, Custodian Media Technical Assistant plan strategically for the future.

Fleming Island Elementary Bannerman Learning Center Swimming Pen Creek Elementary Kristina Karkkainen, Varying Exceptionalities Kelly Schnirel, Licensed Practical Nurse Donnielle King, ESE Assistant “As the newly elected superintendent Fleming Island High School Charles E. Bennett Elementary Thunderbolt Elementary of Clay County Public Schools, I am Kimberli Repper, Mathematics Debra Menne, School Secretary Nina Foye, School Secretary honored, humbled, and inspired by the Green Cove Springs Junior High Clay High School Tynes Elementary John Steiner Jr., Inclusion Teresa Green, School Secretary Karen Green, School Secretary incredible responsibility charged to me in Grove Park Elementary Clay Hill Elementary W. E. Cherry Elementary leading this great system and improving Kellie Rodifer, Tittle I Curriculum Coach Paula Leasure, Media Technical Assistant Michelle Solomon, teaching and learning,” Superintendent Keystone Heights Elementary Clay Virtual Academy Principal’s Secretary Davis said. “I will dedicate my efforts to Teri Sapp, Second Grade Lori Theus, Principal’s Secretary Wilkinson Elementary raise academic experiences for all stuKeystone Heights Jr/Sr High Coppergate Elementary Lisa Moyer, Computer Lab Assistant dents, and create a climate and culture Charlie Propper, Music Cylela Harmon, ESE Assistant Wilkinson Junior High School that fosters collaboration, transparency, Lake Asbury Elementary Doctors Inlet Elementary Debbie Christy, and a child-centric environment.”

Katie Haymore, Third Grade Tammy Saucier, Principal’s Secretary Media Technical Assistant Lake Asbury Junior High School Fleming Island Elementary Amy Batchelor, EBD Self Contained John Columbano, ESE Assistant The actions Superintendent Davis proLakeside Elementary Fleming Island High School poses to take are organized according to Michelle Bily, Fourth Grade Susan Edmonds, Bookkeeper six goals laid out in the plan: Connect with us!

Lakeside Junior High School Green Cove Springs Junior High 1. Enhance the relationship between the Michelle Duchemin, Chorus Director Donald Speights, Custodian School Board and the Superintendent.

McRae Elementary Grove Park Elementary Lisa Lane, Second Grade Terry Flynn, ESOL Classroom Assistant 2. Improve the instructional framework, Middleburg Elementary Keystone Heights Elementary processes, and structures that enrich Dawn King, Fourth Grade Sandy Clance, ESE Assistant student achievement.

Middleburg High School Keystone Heights Jr/Sr High 3. Establish a positive climate and culture Heidi Rose, Language Arts/Art History Cynthia Brown, ESE Assistant Montclair Elementary Lake Asbury Elementary throughout the organization.

Anita Brown, ESE Gail Warren, Media Technical Assistant 4. Create a performance management Oakleaf High School Lake Asbury Junior High School system.

Tania Auguste, Spanish Katherine Baker, School Secretary www.oneclay.net Oakleaf Junior High School Lakeside Elementary 5. Strengthen community, public, and OP/Middleburg Michael Adams, Social Studies Renee Rooks, School Secretary teacher relationships.

(904) 272-8100 Oakleaf Village Elementary Lakeside Junior High School Christy Simmons, Kindergarten Elizabeth Aflleje, ESE Assistant 6. Ensure effective management of the Green Cove Springs Orange Park Elementary McRae Elementary organization, operations, and facilities (904) 284-6500 Mary Pat Callihan, Media Specialist Kelly Cook, Title I Assistant to maximize the use of resources and Keystone Heights Orange Park High School Middleburg Elementary promote a safe, efficient, and effective (888) 663-2529 Laura Mayberry, Social Studies Barbara Ann Pickett, School Secretary learning environment for Clay County TDD (904) 284-6584 Orange Park Junior High School Middleburg High School students.

Anne O’Renick, Social Studies Sarah Webb, Registered Nurse Plantation Oaks Elementary Montclair Elementary In the process of implementing this Casey Suhr, Second Grade Sharon Gaughan, ESE Assistant transition plan, the superintendent also R. M. Paterson Elementary Oakleaf High School identifies expected outcomes: Denise Madonia, Art Selina Yearty, School Secretary 1. A comprehensive report describing key RideOut Elementary Oakleaf Junior High School findings, observations, and feedback Alicia Mosteller, Third Grade Alicia Prentice, Registered Nurse Ridgeview Elementary Oakleaf Village Elementary Jamie Randall, Sixth Grade Tracey Hulett, Media Technical Assistant Tuesday, Jan. 3 Teacher planning day, student holiday Ridgeview High School Orange Park Elementary Angela Randall, Language Arts Abegail Rosario-Castillo, Media Technical Wednesday, Jan. 4 Inservice Day, student holiday Classes S. Bryan Jennings Elementary Assistant Thursday, Jan. 5 Students return Nancy Gleneski, Title I Orange Park High School Shadowlawn Elementary Robert Garcia, ESE Assistant Monday, Jan. 16 Martin Luther King Day, student/teacher holiday Laura Beck, Speech Clinician Orange Park Junior High School

Davis Plans to “Elevate Clay”

January Calendar

Page 28 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2017

from all stakeholder groups.

2. The opportunity to transform key findings into a thoughtful four-year strategic plan linked to improving student achievement through targeted initiatives, projects, and an organizational structure designed to achieve those targets.

3. The creation of a shared vision and common focus for the entire school community, with a deeper understanding of the mission for Clay County Public Schools.

The plan will remain available on the district website at oneclay.net, and updated as action items are accomplished.

Superintendent Davis is hosting a series of public meetings to share the plan directly with residents, and engage in discussions so he can better understand the needs of the community and identify next steps for the district. The first meeting was held at Oakleaf High School on Dec. 13.

Upcoming meetings include: • Tuesday, Jan. 10, 6:30 pm - Keystone Heights Junior/Senior High School (900 Orchid Avenue, Keystone Heights) • Tuesday, Jan. 17, 6:30 pm - Fleming Island High School (2233 Village Square Parkway, Fleming Island) • Thursday, Jan. 26, 6:30 pm - Orange Park High School (2300 Kingsley Avenue, Orange Park) • Thursday, Feb. 9, 6:30 pm - Ridgeview High School (466 Madison Avenue, Orange Park) • Thursday, Feb. 16, 6:30 pm - Middleburg High School (3750 CR 220, Middleburg) • Tuesday, Feb. 21, 6:30 pm - Clay High School (2025 SR 16 W, Green Cove Springs) “I look forward to strengthening relationships and engaging our community in the work of improving teaching and learning for our students through these meetings. All stakeholders are invited to attend these open forums to discuss how the greater community can work collectively to improve the educational experiences for our students,” said Davis.

Things to Do

PETS

Impress Your Guests with a Well-Behaved Dog T

here is nothing more annoying than your dog jumping and knocking people over when they come to your house, and begging and barking at the table for some scraps of food. Have no fear! We have solutions for you!

2.

3.

The Polite Greeting: • Don’t allow your dog to “answer the door”.

4.

Until your dog is better trained, have your dog in another room, behind a gate, and on a leash before opening the door.

• Teach your dog how to sit at your side vs out in front. This will give you better control while teaching him that polite behavior is the right behavior.

5.

• Give your guest some dog treats and instruct your guests that they only can treat the dog if he is being polite – not lunging or jumping.

• Stand several feet away from your guest and ask your guest to approach the dog while you continue to praise and reward his self-control.

The guest should stop about 2 or 3 feet away.

6.

If the dog continues showing good self-control than the guest may approach the dog and give him a treat. Repeat this sequence 5 or 6 times.

• If the dog rushes out fast or jumps at any point, the guest should immediately walk back to where they started.

• Once this is going well for several trials, the guest may briefly pet the dog on his chest & neck.

Pet Table Manners: 1. Spend time first installing a basic down and stay: Teach your dog how to lie down on

a verbal and hand signal. Once that is going well, install a foundational Stay using a verbal and hand signal. If you are unsure how to do this, take a group dog training class or hire a private trainer who uses positive reinforcement training.

Introduce the training mat: Now that your dog knows how to lie down and stay for several seconds and while you are several feet away, start practicing with a special mat or rug that becomes his special spot. You can eventually teach your dog a “Place” or “Go to your mat” verbal cue.

Practice near the dinner table: Send your dog to his training mat. Use your Stay cue if needed. Walk over to your dinner table. Return to your dog. Praise & reward. Repeat several times.

Practice sitting in the chair: Once step 3 is going great, you now need to sit at the table for 1 second, get back up, return to your dog, praise & reward. Gradually build up longer durations. Randomize the durations so the dog doesn’t know if it is 2 seconds or 30 seconds.

Practice with dishes/ food: Once step 4 is going well, you will practice while you are eating a sandwich. Take a bite, put the sandwich down, return to your dog, praise & reward. Build up so you can take several bites before rewarding your dog. If this level is difficult, use gates or tethers as a back up initially until your dog is doing better.

Practice with your whole family: Once step 5 is going well with one person, try it for a real meal with the whole family. One person will have to be the designated dog trainer for the meal, getting up at random times and praising and rewarding the dog. Use gates or tethers as a back up if needed until the dog is doing better. At each meal, reward the dog at less frequent intervals until the dog can stay on his mat for an entire meal. Then he gets to earn those scraps at the very end! j

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“Whatever you do or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius and power and magic in it.”

– Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Canine Leadership Class 2017 January 4, 6:30pm to 8pm Join Kamp K-9 Jax Bch and Salty Paws Healthy Pet Market - Atlantic Beach for the first session of 2017 in the Canine Leadership Class. This 5-week class takes you from beginning through advanced dog handling and includes calm leash walking, pack walking, dog introductions, human introductions, confined spaces work, distractions, doorways, etc. The course ends with a relaxing pack walk up to the Neptune/Atlantic Town Center to listen to music as well as to show off your skills. This course is $200 and class size is limited. Email to Greg at winfirst1@ gmail.com to reserve your spot.

Salty Paws Healthy Pet Market - Atlantic Beach / 904-372-9433 / 677 Atlantic Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.SaltyPawsMarket.com Puppy Power! Caring For Puppies January 7, 11am to 12noon A family class to teach all ages how to care for puppies, taught by local trainer Angela Byrd. A real puppy will be present for demonstrations.

Southeast Branch Library / 904-827-6900 / 6670 US 1 South, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / www.sjcpls.org

Pet Events records. Cost is $80.

Pals n Paws Agility Field / 904-352-7631 / 6932 Morse Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32244 / dogtrainerpamela.com Pet FOOleD - A Documentary January 10, 3pm to 4:15pm Salty Paws Healthy Pet Market - Atlantic Beach is hosting an exclusive viewing of Pet Fooled, on January 10th, at the AMC Regency 24. Learn about the inner workings of the pet food industry and nutrition in this investigative exposé.

You must reserve your seat in order to attend.

Tickets are $11 each. With each ticket sold, $1 will be donated to The Old Dog House, a local rescue, caring and changing the lives of senior dogs. Also, everyone attending will receive a $5.00 gift card to Salty Paws Healthy Pet Market - Atlantic Beach and a goody bag filled with healthy pet options.

AMC Regency 24 / 904-372-9433 / 9451 Regency Square Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.SaltyPawsMarket.com Crate Training Workshop January 14, 12noon to 1pm This 60-minute Workshop provides you with a basic introduction on how to introduce a crate to your dog. You will learn the first steps to the methodology and how to apply them.

Petco Mandarin / 904-260-3225 / 11111 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www.petco. com

ShotVet Pet Clinics January 7, 8am to 6pm Lot cost pet vaccinations, given by licensed veterinarians. No appointments are necessary.

8am to 9am – Walgreens, 12387 Yellow Bluff Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32226 10am to 11am – Walgreens, 7224 Merrill Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32277 11:30am to 12:30pm – Walgreens, 12002 McCormick Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 1:30pm to 2:30pm – Walgreens, 13255 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 3pm to 4pm – Walgreens, 12230 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 5pm to 6pm – Walgreens, 4715 Hodges Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 www.shotvet.com Beginners Agility January 9, 6:30pm to 7:30pm Dogs and handlers will be introduced to the basic agility equipment. Dogs will work on leash, during the first four weeks of the course. How to read course maps will be introduced, and sportsmanship will be covered in this is a 4 week course. Dogs must be current on all shot

Pet CPR & First Aid January 21, 10am to 2pm Pet Life Saver is offering a Pet CPR & First Aid class. Topics covered will include restraining & muzzling, primary pet assessment, bleeding & shock management, snout-to-tail assessment™, choking protocols, canine & Feline CPR, rescue breathing, and more. Each student will receive a PetSaver™ handbook, and upon successful completion each student will receive a certificate of completion. Cost is $149.

DogtownResorts / 904-635-3665 / 11740 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / petlifesaverjax.com Like Jax4Pets.com’s Facebook page at facebook.com/jax4pets to find out about other events for pets.

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stephendotylaw.com JANUARY 2017 • Jax4Kids.com •

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THINGS TO DO Shen Yun 2017 January 3 – 4, 7:30pm Thousands of years ago, the Chinese believed their culture was a sacred gift from Heaven. This ancient world of splendor has since been lost, but now you can see it come to life on stage. Let Shen Yun take you on a magical journey and bring you into the beautiful world of China’s divine civilization. Classical Chinese dance, ethnic and folk dances, authentic costumes, and breathtaking backdrops will tell the story, all accompanied by an enchanting orchestral sound. Tickets start at $70.

Times Union Center / 904-655-3119 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.shenyun.com Paint Me a Story: Sneezy the Snowman January 5, 10am Doing Dishes hosts Paint Me a Story one day a month at 10am and 4pm. For $18, your child will hear a story and then paint a corresponding piece. Your child will also receive a snack and a drink. This class is designed for you and your child to create scheduled projects together. Smaller children will need guardians to help.

Register online in advance. This month’s story is Sneezy the Snowman, and kids will paint a Snowman footprint on 8” tile. Held at both the San Jose location and the St. Johns location.

Doing Dishes / www.doingdishes.com San Jose Location / 904-730-3729 / 5619 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville FL 32207 St. Johns Location / 904-824-7774 / 2220 CR-210 W Suite 309, St. Johns, FL 32259 The State Ballet Theater of Russia: Swan Lake January 6, 8pm The State Ballet Theater of Russia performs Swan Lake, one of the greatest classical ballets of all time.

Full-length Ballet in Four Acts with One Intermission.

This full-scale production, set to the music of Tchaikovsky and based on Russian folklore and German legend, follows a heroic young prince as he works to free the beautiful swan maiden from an evil spell. The State Ballet Theater of Russia presents 50 of Russia’s brightest ballet stars to bring this romantic tale of true love to life. Times Union Center - Moran Theater / 904442-2929 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.fscjartistseries.org Home Depot Kids Workshop: Crate Toolbox January 7, 9am to 12noon Offered the first Saturday of each month between 9am and 12 noon. All kids get to keep their craft, receive a free certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. This week’s project is a Crate Toolbox. Once the toolbox is built, your child can paint it in their favorite color.

Area Home Depot Stores / workshops.homedepot.com Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead January 10, 4:30pm to 5:30pm Ages 6 to 12 are invited for fun STEAM activities and games focusing on one of the STEAM concepts of science, technology, engineering, arts, or math.

Webb Wesconnett Regional Library / 904-778-7305 / 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210 / jpl.coj.net

combines award-winning acrobatics, traditional dance, spectacular costumes, ancient and contemporary music and theatrical techniques to present a show of breathtaking skill and spellbinding beauty. Tickets range from $19.50 to $35 and are available online or by phone.

The Florida Theatre / 904-355-5661 / 128 East Forsyth Street, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / floridatheatre.com Alhambra Children’s Theatre Matinee: The Ugly Duckling January 18, 10am to 11:30am Alhambra Theatre and Dining presents a children’s theatre matinee performance of The Ugly Duckling.

Prices for all ages are just $12* per person and $9* per student for school groups, including home school groups. Taxes not included. Bring your own brown bag lunch to enjoy after the show, as there is no food or drink service for these performances. Doors open at 10am, and the show begins at 10:30am. Show lasts about 45 minutes.

Alhambra Theatre & Dining / 904-641-1212 / 12000 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.alhambrajax.com Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Thursday, January 19, 7:30pm Friday, January 20, 7:30pm Saturday, January 21, 11:30am, 3:30pm and 7:30pm Sunday, January 22, 1pm and 5pm Save $5 on tickets using the code J4K17 to see Circus Xtreme, featuring the first female ringmaster in Ringling Bros. history. Experience extreme thrills, see exotic animals, BMX trick riders, trampoline daredevils, contortionists, and extraordinary performers. The party starts an hour before the show at the All Access Preshow, which is free with ticket purchase. Families can meet an international cast of performers, get up close to the menagerie of animals, try on custom costumes, learn circus skills like juggling, and more. Ticketholders can purchase an upgrade and go backstage with a VIP Behind the Scenes Tour of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey. The backstage experience includes an insider look at props and wardrobe, an up close and personal encounter with the animals and a chance to meet stars from the show. Fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures and learn educational fun facts. Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena / 1-800345-7000 / 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.ringling.com The Adventures of Bella & Harry - Let’s Visit London January 26, 10am and 12noon Live, musical performance based on the educational series “The Adventures of Bella & Harry” by Lisa Manzione. The performance is best suited for grades K - 7.

Tickets are $8.50 per person. Reserve your tickets in advance. Two performances: 10am and 12noon.

Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts / 904-442-2947 / 11901 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www. fscjartistseries.org

31st Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire January 28 – 29, 10am to 6pm For two consecutive weekends, the Alachua County Fairgrounds will transform into a medieval marketplace Bartram Trail Friends of the Library Book Sale during the 31st Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire.

January 14, 9:30am to 12noon There will be music, singers and dancers in medieval Support the Bartram Trail Friends of the Library by attire, artisans, vendors, magicians, jousting, kids stopping in at this month’s book sale from 9:30am to activities, and more. Tickets are Adults – $17; 12noon. Books of all kinds and items such as DVDs, Youth (5-17) – $7; Children under 5 – free.

CDs, VHS tapes, and audiobooks will be available.

Alachua County Fairgrounds / 352-393-8536 / Bartram Trail Branch Library / 904-827-6960 / 60 3100 NE 39th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32609 / www.

Davis Pond Blvd, Fruit Cove, FL 32259 / www.sjcpls.org hoggetownefaire.com Golden Dragon Acrobats January 15, 3pm The Golden Dragon Acrobats are recognized throughout the United States, and abroad as the premiere Chinese acrobatic touring company of today. The show

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dates, times and locations are accurate at time of publication; events and activities listed in this guide are subject to change without notice. Visit Jax4Kids.com for updated information and more events!

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Bleed: NA

Colours: CMYK

Built: 26/10/2016 - KG

RIVERHOUSE AMENITY CENTER

LIFE ON THE RIVER KEEPS GETTING BETTER

Affordable living on the water continues to grow as even more exciting changes are coming to RiverTown. The stunning St. Johns river is the backdrop for the unique charm of Mattamy’s master-planned community built around indoor/outdoor living and active lifestyles.

The existing RiverHouse amenity will be joined by our state-of-the-art RiverClub opening late 2017, to bring even more amenities to this already thriving community.

Welcome Center and 6 Model Homes coming early 2017

Mattamy is proud to be both the developer and builder of this exciting waterfront community, and we’re even prouder to share our nearly 40 years of experience with you.

REGISTER TODAY AT MATTAMYRIVERTOWN.COM

Mattamy Jacksonville LLC: Richard Egger – License No. CGC1523769, Scott Paige – License No. CGC1523142, David Koon – License No. FRO6526 Mattamy Rivertown LLC: D.J. Smith – License No. CGC1517223 All illustrations are artist’s concept. All dimensions are approximate. Prices, specifications, terms and conditions subject to change without notice. E.&O.E. Builder #CGC1523769

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