Kids standard's Dec 2016 issue 17

www.kidsstandard.org

I S S U E 1 7 | D E C E MB E R 2 01 6

Available by Subscription

I am a citizen of the world

My

World PA GE 1 3

Graduates PAG E20

Motivate. Activate. Celebrate.

Parent’s

Corner PAG E 2 3

F E AT U R E

Index: Feature..................................................2 Editorial Calendar...............................3 Fiction...................................................4 Fun In History.....................................6 Poems....................................................8 Action..................................................11 My World...........................................13 Review................................................14 Countries and Cultures....................15 Eco- System........................................16 Technology.........................................17 Global problem solving....................18 Graduates...........................................20 College Tour......................................21 Paren’s corner....................................22 Paren’s corner....................................23 Volunteer opportunity is available for students and Adults.

Contact us info@kidsstandard.com Let us know if your school wants to partner with us.

Follow us on twitter http://twiter.com/kidsstandard Like us on Facebook: http://facebook.com/kidsstandard 248-410-3976 © Copyright Kids Standard Publication Inc, Michigan. All Rights Reserved

www.kidsstandard.org

I am a Citizen of the World

I

n a few decades, human beings will most likely add another two billion people to Earth’s population. We don’t need a crystal ball to foresee that we are challenging nature’s ability to sustain the planet.

The natural resources are finite. To keep up adequate living conditions, it is necessary to design new science, engineering, and architectural methods. No one nation can do this alone, as it is affecting all of us across cultures and borders.

The power of the global economy and the extraordinary speed of global communications make global part of our everyday lives. What we really need now is a new mindset - one that connects our decisions and actions to consequences for people and communities locally, nationally, or internationally.

Global citizenship is a multi-dimensional concept that covers a variety of aptitudes and attitudes that our children need to develop in order to productively live in the global society: from critically thinking about the world and how it works to being able to work in various cultural contexts and diverse groups. Global citizenship fosters respect for others no matter where they live and

Arina Bokas

Kids’ Standard Editor & Author of Building Powerful Learning Environments: From Schools to Communities

encourages deep thinking about our planet.

Our December 2016 issue I am a Citizen of the World is exploring global citizenship themes that help children increase their confidence in their own beliefs and evaluate the ethics and impact of their decisions.

Enjoy!

Our Sponsor Clarkston Optimist Club Disclaimer: All editorial and advertising material submitted to Kids Standard becomes the property of Kids Standard to be reproduced as seen fit. It will not be returned unless by prior arrangement. Submitted material includes advertising artwork and editorial content (including but not limited to: articles and images, art work and creative writing). All the designs remain the copyright of Kids Standard. Kids Standard welcomes comments and suggestions, as well as information about errors that call for corrections. Kids Standard is committed to presenting information fairly and accurately.

Feedback: info@kidsstandard.org

ADVERTISE IN KIDS STANDARD...

We’re reaching more and more people every day! Call now and find out how to advertise in a new target market!

Email: advertising@kidsstandard.org Phone: 248-410-3976

Just Released!

A Book for Teachers, School Leaders, and Parents – Colleagues in Creating Powerful Environments for Learning “ There needs to be a shift from the mindset of family engagement to the mindset of school-family-community partnerships; from seeing parents as schools’ assistants at home to interacting with them as colleagues and partners in their children’s educational journey.”

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM AND ROWMAN.COM

@arinabokas culturesofpartnerships.com

Member of Chamber of Commerce

L e t ’ s st a r t b u i l d in g !

www.KidsStandard.org

E D I TO R I A L C A L E N DA R

2016-2017 Editorial Calendar January 2017

My Element Is doing something make your eyes spark and heartbeat faster? Is there

Making a Ripple

Simply Different Why do we need differences? What does it mean to be different? Does being different mean being a bad person? Do you know of someone who is not like other people around you? How do you think of people who cannot sit still in school, take too long to complete a task, or just always seem out of step? Do you know of someone who is different? What makes him or her a special

person?

April 2017

By making a choice to be helpful, kind, or just smile to someone who is upset, you can start a ripple of positive energy and actions. How can what you think, say, and do make a difference in someone else’s life? How do your actions affect other people? What can we do today to make the world a better place?

What did you do to make a ripple?

What ripples can be made in schools to make them better places for learning? Are there any people whom you consider ripple makers? Why? DECEMBER 2016

Stories that Matter

March 2017

something that you can do forever and hardly notice the time? This is your element, or your passion. How did you discover it? How does it help you in life? What lessons do you learn from it?

What can you tell your readers about it?

February 2017

May 2017

As human beings, we are wired to like stories. Since the beginning of times, stories have been the way for human beings to pass their knowledge to next generations. Is there a person or place that adds special meaning to your life or lives of other people? Why does this person or place matter? What is your own story? What can we learn from telling and listening to stories? How can stories be used in schools? You can tell any story, just make sure to explain why it is important.

Summer 2017 Family Magic

Number Talk When we learn to count on our fingers, we “see” our math. Do you see math around you? What helps you see when you learn math? What pictures do you create in your mind? What makes math interesting and relevant to real life?

How can we learn from numbers? If there were no math or numbers, how would our world look like? Share with us stories about numbers.

Our families are important to us. Tell us about relationships in your family, connections between kids and parents, and meaningful experiences that you had with your family. What makes spending time with your family important to you? What do you learn from your family members? How do you learn together as a family?

3

Publication INC.

FICTION

Aqua and Violet By: Grayson Coe, 4th Grade, Independence Elementary,

A

Clarkston

qua and Violet are two robot eyes that live on a planet called Vortrekcius.

Hyperdrive is the prince of Vortrekcius and he is a robot space dragon. Hyperdrive’s parents designed Aqua and Violet - two little scientists that see things that normally can’t be seen; for example, they can see detect something that is evil.

They have x-ray vision and can never be kept apart from each other. They always stick together, or it will cause a glitch that will disrupt their programming and shut them

off. Some of their powers are joining together to form a giant robot and shooting lasers out of their eyes. They have rocket fists and jets on the bottom of their body to move them around. They are made of Vortranian platinum, which is platinum that gives energy to boost strength and their powers.

The King of Nightmares is their main enemy, who is trying to take over the whole galaxy. Aqua and Violet are very important to the team that has to take down the King of Nightmares because they can disguise themselves.

They can appear as the enemies and can dress up as guards and let the team into the enemy bases.

Climbing Mount Vesuvius By: Kaelyn Nardi, 3rd grade, Deerfield Elementary, Rochester Hills

I

t was about 8:00 in the morning in Pompeii; the sun was rising very slowly. I woke up listening to other people walking into shops and eating breakfast while watching the sunrise. I went to a healthy food shop and got some carrots, pretzels, trail mix, and other foods… but they were not all healthy.

I got the snacks not just for eating or some family event. I am going to climb the one and only Mount

4

Publication INC.

Vesuvius! I stopped at a drink shop.

There were about ten people in the shop because it was so early in the morning. I got ten water bottles, eight lemonades, and five Gatorades. That is a lot of drinks! When I finally got out of the store, I went to my house and made breakfast: 2 pieces of toast, 2 eggs, 3 slices of bacon, and some milk. That filled me so much!

When I walked out the door, I felt pride. I saw a sign, so I stopped and looked at it. It said: “Welcome to Pompeii - a place where you can eat, sleep, dance, and other free stuff!” I passed the city of Pompeii and went

towards the mountain.

An hour later, I was face to face with the mountain! I looked for a way to get up. Luckily, there was a trail for climbers to climb! I went up. The trail was made of dirt. Soon it had come to an end. My stomach started to rumble; I pulled out some potato chips and ate them. Then I pulled out a drink. It was almost night time, but I knew I could make it. That’s when I saw it! Kaboom! The top of Mount Vesuvius blew off! I knew two things: one - I finished my journey and two I believe it’s going to be a fun way back!

www.KidsStandard.org

FICTION

James The Traveler

By: Giavanna Montgomery, 4th grade, Independence Elementary, Clarkston

O

nce there was a man named James. His passion was to travel all over the world! He went to every continent, country, state, and national city that you could think of. He went everywhere, but some of the favorite places were Mexico, Brazil, Africa, and Russia.

James went to Mexico in late October and met with one of his friend, Jorge, whom James had met in previous years.

Together, they went to a restaurant for dinner, and James enjoyed a wonderful meal of tortilla chips with guacamole and Queso, meat tacos, and refried beans. On November 2, James celebrated the Day of the Dead!

When James went to Brazil in the month of February, the people of the

city invited him to the local town square to the Carnaval Celebration. Every sundown, James would go outside to see the beautiful view. He could see straight for miles, and the colorful sunset was beautiful and had many colors including pink, purple, golden yellow, orange, and light blue.

Later in Spring, James went to Africa. In the little time he was able to be there, he studied hard and spoke with the local African people to learn their main language, Swahili.

Although James struggled with the language, the Africans, who were able to speak it fluently, had patience with his learning. He also learned some of the other one thousand languages that Africans speak. Now that is a LOT of languages! Just imagine having to write an essay for that many languages!

The final place that he went turned out to be James’ favorite place. He visited Russia. When James was in Russia, he saw a world-famous orchestra and he got to meet some of the pianists. That was amazing because he got to have them play specifically for him. James followed the traditions of telling magical folk tales and fairy tales, which had been passed down for centuries.

James’ adventures will still continue. As he travelled through the many places, he determined that he wanted to visit even more cultures and experience more.

Katie The Gymnast By: Nikoletta Simmons, 3rd Grade, Bailey Lake Elementary, Clarkston

O

nce there was a young girl whose name was Katie. She traveled around the world to different countries to compete in gymnastic competitions and to learn about their languages and animals, because

DECEMBER 2016

she was an explorer, too. She signed up for the school gymnastics team, and she practiced a lot. She liked to do floor and dancing. Her outfit had sparkles that had pink and purple swirls. Her favorite move was a front walkover and a back handspring. She loved to do things with her arms and back. Her team got really far: they won the championship and went

to Greece. Katie taught her teammates a lot of Greek words. It was hard for her team to speak Greek because words were hard to say, spell, and write because every letter had one sound. So it was really hard. Still, Katie made lots of friends in Greece. Their names were Cat, Alix and Miy, and they helped Katie learn to speak Greek.

5

Publication INC.

FICTION

JIMMY THE T PROBLEM SOLVER

By: Dane Michael White,

4th grade, Independence Elementary, Clarkston

here is a man named Jimmy. His job is to help people with their inventions around the world and see if the inventions will solve some global problems.

One day, Jimmy got a call from Japan from a person named Wong who wanted Jimmy to see if his invention/prototype would help bikers so no accidents happen.

Jimmy flew to Japan to meet Wong.

Wong explained, “It has been a problem for bikers in Japan and other countries with getting in accidents so that’s why I made a safer way for bikes to get around. I have put sensors on a bike that will detect if you are about to crash into an object.” “That is true, and a fact, and a great idea,” Jimmy said. “I think your idea could solve one of the world’s problems. Now, let’s see how it could be done. Let me take some notes and work on them back at home.” Scribble….

scribble. “So, Wong, I have just gotten a call that I need to go to another place. I will connect with you later.”

“Thank you!” Wong said. “Talk to you later!”

Jimmy was now going to Australia to meet Harold and check out his prototype that would measure the level of the surface of wildfires. Jimmy was impressed with his prototype. Harold said, “My prototype will make wildfires less damaging than they are now. It will also detect the level of the wildfires.”

“Wow! This is great invention to solve a big problem. I think that you are going to help the world! Let me take some notes, and work on it at home” Scribble…..scribble……

When Jimmy came back to America, he looked at his notes and tuned the prototypes to be more effective and less costly. Then he connected with Wong and Harold. “Wow, you have done a lot of helping and exploring,” they said.

“You have understood global needs and helped many people in the world. You are a real global citizen.”

PEOPLE WE ADMIRE

FRIENDS AND FAMILY By: Julia Heilman, 8th grade, Junior High School, Clarkston

F

riends and family are the most valuable treasures a person can have. They are the people I admire. They’re the people who are always there for you and who care about you the most. Without my friends and family I don’t think I would ever laugh or live the great life that I do right now.

The fact that I am fortunate to have those who love me in my life, makes me cherish every moment even more.

My best friends are the people to whom I tell everything. I know I can count on them and trust them with my secrets. They make me happy and fill 6

Publication INC.

me with positive energy along with the motivation to interact with new people and embark on new adventures. For my 13th birthday, my best friend made me a long sweet card telling me how much she cared about me. She reminded me of all of the fun times we had had. As I was reading it, I felt very good about our friendship and I admired her thoughtfulness and kindness.

My family members are the most important people in my life; they are the major role models. They have been with me since day one and haven’t left my side. My parents support me in everything I do and guide me through any challenges I encounter. Family members are also my teachers outside of school.

They taught me how to share and how to be an honest individual. Everything they do and say impacts my character and actions. My dad has always inspired me to work my hardest. He is sick with colds and recovering from surgeries, and

yet, he still tries his best to take care of my family no matter how much pain he is in or how tired he feels. I admire his strength and love. My brothers know how to make things fun and exciting.

They encourage me to be adventurous, which has allowed me to see new things and help live my life to the fullest. I always want the best for them, and I know they want that for me as well. When I was younger, I fell on a playground and got a deep cut under my chin, needing stitches. I remember my brother being right there to help me, to calm me down, and to let my parents know. Even though he was partially to blame for this incident, his guidance made me feel better. I admire him for doing the right thing.

Throughout my life, I’ve made great memories with my friends and family, and I admire every one of them. Family and friends play a big role in our life and affect us in more ways than we know.

www.KidsStandard.org

School night AT THE FORT 3 story play structure Cafeé and dinner specials Arcades and ride-ons Call for school schedule

7127 Dixie Hwy at White Lake Rd , Clarkston 248-297-5453 www.fortclarkston.com

School night AT THE FORT 3 story play structure Cafeé and dinner specials Arcades and ride-ons Call for school schedule

233 Kay Industrial Dr Lake Orion, MI 48359 248 340 0910 500 East Second Street Rochester MI 48307 248 841 1163

7127 Dixie Hwy at White Lake Rd , Clarkston

248-297-5453 www.fortclarkston.com Visit flipspotgym.com for more info

POEMS

Angels Among Us

A tall young girl stands between me and Death.

By: Max Kirby, 8th grade, Junior High School, Clarkston

Her flowing blonde hair seems to braid itself,

I´m in a dark room by myself,

and her polar white lace dress transforms into breathtaking armor.

the dingy grey wallpaper peeling at the seams, the gnarled wooden wainscot rough and edgy.

The only illumination is a faint glow from a dangling light bulb.

Her golden wings unravel and flex.

She unsheathes a mighty blade, challenging death to a duel.

Slowly, a hooded figure with a white face appears,

Death with his scythe and demonic grin confronts her.

dark mist pouring off his cloak.

Light and Dark clash, But Dark is winning,

--It´s Death-I begin to weep and edge myself into the corner, not willing to face my fate.

Death descends on me, trapping me.

He is so close his moist spoiled stench overwhelms me.

Crack!

The girl taking blow after blow.

Death attacks to finish her off, but she sidesteps, leaving death vulnerable.

With one strong jab of her blade, Death explodes into ash.

The room overflows with light,

The ceiling collapses and Death is forced to retreat.

An auspicious light spills out of the gap where moldy drywall once was, the room fills with a golden aura, and the edges of Death’s cloak begin to dissipate.

and the angel disappears through the hole.

Upon her departure, the room morphs into a magical marble room, A masquerade party.

I am not alone; there are angels among us.

Whoomph!

8

Publication INC.

www.KidsStandard.org

POEMS Running Through The Rain in Germany

my heart is so much, so much of a race.

By: Victoria Knieper, 8th grade, Junior High School, Clarkston

Who could frown?

Time for me is running low,

The tears of the sky, stinging my face, The rain is coming down, Who could frown from the rain falling down?

The rain’s outside,

the bus just left a few seconds ago.

Glittering from pride

I just got there as it drove away into the rain,

The sky is crying,

in the rain without an umbrella, I swear I’m sane.

I’m walking a path, stones of many,

But inside I’m glowing, I’ve made it to school, I don’t want to keep going.

I’m walking the streets of Lindau, Germany

I want to go back, but I must continue

The rain’s on my face,

My face is still wet, but I don’t want it dried,

I almost can’t breathe, I quickly wipe my face on my sleeve.

The rain is coming down, I am wandering through the streets, afraid I’ll drown.

The rain is not in the schoolhouse, My destination is thus,

I can still imagine the rain glittering with pride All I want is to be outside Outside with the rain, with the pain.

With the rain stinging my face.

I just want to be outside,

I don’t want to go inside, but I know I must

with the rain, and the pain, and the clouds, and the sounds.

The rain is outside,

The sounds of the crashing, crying clouds,

I can see it now, The rain is so magnificent, I almost say “wow”

I Am a Citizen of...

By: Violet Bergman, 5th grade, Pine Knob Elementary, Clarkston

in the city streets of Lindau.

I am a citizen of fierce yet fair competition in everything I am a citizen of long and kind friendships with others I am a citizen of one united world I am a citizen of Clarkston Athletics

I am a citizen of the World

I am a citizen of a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

I am a citizen of beautiful creatures and life

I am a citizen of wonderful teachers

I am a citizen of a community full of compassionate, loving and caring people

I am a citizen of coding computers

I am a citizen of kind hearts in kind people I am a citizen of warm-hearted family and friends I am a citizen of caring parents and grandparents

DECEMBER 2016

I am a citizen of nature and friendly animals I am a citizen of God and church I am a citizen of this World

9

Publication INC.

Let your skin glow

Enjoy a healthy low fat treat that helps digestion and lowers cholesterol

off

And More

per cup

Contact us for Parties, School Events, and Fundraising Event

No

Address: 2602 N. Squirrel Road Auburn Hills, Michigan Phone:(248) 481-4740

Rodan & Fields independent consultant Janny Hurkmans 248-238-7896 jannyh.myrandf.com

Antiaging aging brand ininUS Anti US

ER experts provide urgent care treatment for adult and pediatric patients of all ages.

Digital X-Ray, ECG, On-Site Lab, DOT and Workers Compensation Services are available.

WE ACCEPT MOST MAJOR INSURANCES

Now Open!

248.297.5282

www.PineKnobUrgentCare.com

6310 Sashabaw Road Clarkston, MI 48346 (next to Starbucks)

Monday-Friday 8am-9pm | Saturday, Sunday & Holidays 8am-6pm

Eat Healthy Live Longer Order Online EAT24 IE N CUIS R E T S MID-EA

Let Us Catter Your Next Special Event!

Special

Lunch Combo

$

599

RAW JUICE BAR

ASK ABOUT OUR CUSTOMER APPRECIATIO CARDS

3.00 Off with $15.00 Purchase

$

cannot be combired with other offers. One coupon per person. Expires 6/9/16

5 Locations To Serve You

5910 SASHBAW AT MAYBEE-248-707-6077 SPECIALS FOR FUNDRAISING EVENTS & PARTIES

CLARKSTON IN THE KROGER PLAZA

www.shishkabobeepress.com

10

Publication INC.

THE DEN TRAINING ACADEMY

Next Level Sports Conditioning Coaching Soccer, Baseball/ Softball, SAQ,Volleyball, Football • • • • •

Birthday Parties Tunnel/Field Rental Foot Bowling Bubble Ball Soccer Fundraising Events & More Visit us online and reigster

www.thedentrainingacademy.com Contact 248-628-3104 www.KidsStandard.org

AC T I O N

A Word from The Trees‌ By: Stella Dougherty, 3rd grade, Independence Elementary, Clarkston

A

ccording to the World Wildlife Fund, about 36 football fields worth of trees are lost every minute. Plants are dying because of many reasons. Some of the reasons are not having enough water, too much sun, bad soil, bad containers and weeds, and forest fires. One of the biggest problems we face today is something called deforestation.

Deforestation is the permanent destruction of land. If we cut down trees until there are none left in the world, we would not live. So what can we do as citizens of the world?

Here are some other ways you can help plants and trees: 1. Use paper wisely. We can save trees from being cut down by using less paper.

2. Recycle old things that you could make into new things that can help our ecosystem. For example, you could make a milk jug into a bird feeder.

3. Borrow, share, and donate books. You could go to used book sales, instead of new book stores.

4. Visit the forest to be inspired to help save the plants and trees.

5. Create your own personal garden in your backyard. Maybe you will discover a new fruit or vegetable that you like!

6. Take a little time out of your day to plant or care for a tree. I promise the tree will be forever thankful. Humans, big and small, can help the world - one tree at a time!

DECEMBER 2016

Giving From Your Heart By: Violet Dougherty, 1st grade, Independence Elementary, Clarkston

A

boy and girl had an idea to raise money to buy food for the poor by selling lemonade and homemade jewelry. They made

a lot of money and were very proud!

They went to a store to buy can food to help the poor. They bought a lot can food and they took it to a homeless shelter. There were mac and cheese, spaghetti, and chicken noodle soup. The boy and girl were very happy as they shopped for yummy food to give to the poor. It felt good in their hearts to help people in need.

When the food was delivered to the poor people, they were happy to see all the yummy food! They were thankful for the boy and girl that helped them.

11

Publication INC.

AC T I O N

Kitchen Scraps By:Jane Sorensen, 5rd grade, Independence Elementary, Clarkston

Y

ou can grow a fruit or vegetable plant with the food scraps from your very own fruits and vegetables! Food scraps help the environment.

The first thing you can grow is celery. Take one stick of celery and place it in a jar with 2 inches of water in the bottom and place it in a sunny spot INSIDE! Before you

know it, you will have a whole stalk of celery.

Another way you can save your environment is by building compost bins for all your egg shells, leaves from trees, and even apple cores and orange and banana peels. After you put your kitchen scraps inside your compost bin, add red wigglers: the kind of worm that is very good for compost bins. You can also have a compost bin without using worms.

This method will take longer.

These are a few ways you can help the environment around you.

The Littering Book By: Madeline Dunn, First Grade, Independence Elementary,

O

Clarkston

n a sunny day, Brendon was jumping on a pogo stick when saw litter at the park. He picked it up; he thought he should put it in the recycling bin. A girl named Violet was coming; she saw Brendon picking up garbage and picked it up, too. She put it in the garbage. A parent saw them picking up the garbage; she thought she should pick it up also.

Brendon thought the tree was dying because everybody littered, so he picked the trash up. Then he saw that people followed him and thought he should make a team: everybody needed to pick up ten pieces of garbage every day. This way they could help the Earth. One day, Brendon saw a girl picking the garbage up at the beach when it was raining. He felt happy. They were helping the Earth.

12

Publication INC.

www.KidsStandard.org

MY WORLD

The Moon Is Watching Us By: Olivia Galio, 8th grade, Junior High school, Clarkston

I

stepped out at exactly 10:00 pm last night with my binoculars in hand. I put on my binoculars observing the moon's detailed craters. It's so fascinating to me that we can see the moon and stars at night; it's like a little glimpse into the universe. Even if I never go on a rocket ship into space or touch the moon with my own feet, I still get to see what's outside of the little bubble of life we call Earth.

I never really thought about what it would be like to be the moon. I wonder what the moon thinks about us as it revolves around our planet. Does the moon

see our growth of humanity over centuries of watching us develop? Or does it see the destruction increasing? There is global warming, rising gas and energy prices, shortages of food and water, disasters on land and sea. There are new diseases, economic uncertainty,and increasing terrorist activity. What has become us?

Being born into the very beginning of the next era is amazing. I don't think too many people born in the 2000s realize how cool this is. We are making history.

Some of us will be in the history books that people will read in the 3000s. I'm not sure that I will be one of those people, but I intend to help make a difference in the world.

One of the things that scares me is whether this generation lives to have another generation. ISIS hasn't been in the news for awhile, but the horrible killing spree in Paris almost two years ago means it can happen again in other major cities in the world. Countries now have nuclear

weapons. They have the power to wipe out the whole planet with just the release of one very powerful bomb. In just the matter of seconds the world could end.

People are refusing to help the environment. They know that animal species are going extinct. Ignoring this, they still continue to throw their plastic water bottles into the oceans and hunt for ivory tusks. We cut down rainforests, we waste water, we don't think about the future because we are too focused on our own lives. If humans are going to live to see the 3000s, 4000s, and so on, we are going to have to work together to preserve our earth for our children, grandchildren, and great, great, great, great, great, grandchildren.

Today’s actions will affect the future generations. My generation could change things for the better or worse. The moon is watching us. The moon hopes we make good decisions so that it still has a planet to orbit in the future.

WE ARE NOW FULLY OPEN Schedule is on our website Training for Spartan, Ninja Warrior & Similar OCR

GET A DISCOUNT RATE FOR YOUR FIRST MONTH! Featuring Classes for Children & Adult of All Fitness Levels, FROM BIGINNER TO ADVANCE! CHILDREN & ADULT BIRTHDAY PARTIES CORPORATE EVENTS PLAN AHEAD FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

248.829.0414 2980 Technology, Dr. Rochester Hills Phone: 248.829.0414 www.gritobstacletraining.com

DECEMBER 2016

13

Publication INC.

REVIEW

Discomfort and Challenges in The Giver by Lois Lowry

Collective Goods Books Are Fun formerly known as

By: Sasha Bokas, 7th grade, Sashabaw Middle School, Clarkston

W

e all face challenges, but what if we realized that the challenges we face could build our character? In The Giver, author Lois Lowry shows exactly this: facing discomfort and the unknown has an impact on who we are as people.

Jonas and his community face many challenges. His community grows by assignments that are given each year to its members. Jonas is also given an assignment, the most intricate special assignment. Jonas is to become the receiver of the memory that is hidden from the rest of the people. Over the course of the book, we see how challenges and painful experiences that Jonas encounters build his character.

Challenges build Jonas’ character because his responses to them reveal who he is. When Jonas faces the challenge of finding out how the twin was released (killed by his own father), he is devastated. This acceding devastation is the result of his struggle with the norms of his society as he is understanding the truth. When Fiona efficiently kills the old when they are released, Jonas cannot accept it. Finding out the truth about what release is opens Jonas’ eyes, showing him that the truth needs to be known.

Challenges have a lasting effect on Jonas. After experiencing the memory of the war, Jonas becomes more sensitive to the suffering of others. No longer can he live in the society whose memory is erased.

Jonas decides to live through another challenge - leaving home. To his surprise, he feels “no fear, nor any regret,” while at the same time, he is feeling sad about having to leave his friend for good.

Why challenges are important? Wouldn’t it be nice to live in the world where everyone is always happy and the same? Through The Giver, Lois Lowry answers - no. The obstacles you face in life affect you and your character exceptionally. They lead you to a greater understanding and discovery; they show you who you really are.

14

Publication INC.

GET MORE. GIVE BACK. We're in the business of transforming communities. Collective Goods brings a world-class retail experience with incredible prices to your workplace, benefiting your employees and the causes you care about.

Contact Steve Martin: 810-240-1531

www.collectivegoods.com

Time to see the Dentist?

Clarkston Dental Group, PC Bruce P. Mercado, DDS Robert J. Opie, DDS

Offering premier family dentistry to our community!

248.625.5000

www.clarkstondentalgroup.com www.KidsStandard.org

C O U N T R I E S A N D C U LT U R E S

Lebanese Culture By: Jane Sorensen, 5th grade, Independence Elementary, Clarkston

A

way you can be a citizen of the world is by learning about the different cultures. If you learn about different cultures now, it can benefit you later in High School because then you learn different world languages.

Where is Lebanon?

Lebanon is located next to Syria in the Middle East.

Religion

30% of the people in Lebanon are Christian. 70% are not Christian; most are muslim.

Economy in Lebanon

Lebanon has a free market based economy and a strong laissez-faire commercial tradition. Laissez-faire is French for “Let (people) do (as they choose).” It describes a system free of regulation or interference by the government beyond the minimum.

Cuisine

Fruits and vegetables found in Lebanese Cuisine: • Onions • Garlic • Eggplant • Pomegranate • Figs • Dates • Olives • Chickpeas • Grapes • Wheat • Barley Animals often included in the diet of Lebanese people: • Sheep

M The Philippines By: Sydney Baliat, 4th Grade, Deerfield Elementary, Rochester Hills

DECEMBER 2016

y dad is from the Philippines.

He has been teaching me a little bit about their culture and language. “ Comustu niun” means how are you doing today?

In the Philippines, it is very hot, moist, and also rainy. The houses do not have windows because it is so hot, and they are not big - just about the size of your garage! Tsunamis are frequent in the Philippines because this country an island. Last time there was a tsunami, a lot of people got swept away in the water. Sometimes, there would be a tsunami every week!

There are different parts in the Philippines. The different parts are whole different islands! My dad’s home was big for Philippines, but his bedroom was not big. It could only fit a single bed, so the three kids in the family had

• Chicken • Goat • Cow

Famous Recipes:

Grape Leaves: 1 ½ ground lamb 1 ½ cups long grain rice 4 tbs calcified lettuce Salt, pepper, syrian spices 2 jars of grape leaves

Mix lamb, rice, lettuce and spices in a large bowl. Rinse and dry off grape leaves.

Place one leaf on washing surface and put approximately 1 tbsp mixture in center. Roll from bottom of the leaf and hold sides to center. Place in large pot then continue to roll. Place a plate over the pot of grape leaves. Add water to the pot and remove the plate. Cover and bring to a boil, lower heat, and cook for 1hr.

Language

Arabic is the language that people in Lebanon speak. ‫( ابحرم‬Hello) ‫( اعادو‬Goodbye) ‫( كلاح فيك‬How are you?) ‫( هللا كقفو ابيط اظح‬Good luck) to share the bed. When my grandmother moved to the U.S.A, she left her children - my dad, uncle, and aunt - alone with not much money. They had to live with no parents for 14 years before they got old enough to move to the U.S.A! The Philippines did not exactly have stores like we have. There were little stands that had fruit, water, and meat. It was very hard to shop for some people because not everyone had money.

The school year usually runs from June to March, although it may also end in April. Children learn a lot when they go outside.. They learn how things works in the world around them. In the Philippines my dad was in a building club. He had a lot of fun! He wanted to do it every summer. The Philippines is a very different place. I hope you learned a little more about the Philippines!

15

Publication INC.

ECO- SYSTEM

GLOBAL WARMING, A WORLD PROBLEM By: Samantha Nidiffer, 5th grade, Bailey Lake Elementary, Clarkston

O

ne of the world’s biggest problems is global warming.

Here is how Global warming is affecting not only the planet and animals but also us, human beings. One thing that is causing global warming is carbon.

We breath in oxygen and breath out carbon dioxide. The human population is rising, putting more carbon into the air. Carbon is a form of matter, or atoms.

Something else that global warming is affecting is landforms. One of the biggest land forms is the great barrier reef.

The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is the world’s largest coral reef. The reef is getting bleached by all the carbon in the air. When the carbon hits the water, it becomes carbonic acid. Because there is more carbon in the air, there is more carbonic acid in the water. The bleaching is affecting up to 95 % of the Great Barrier Reef.

Recently, people learned that 35% of coral in the middle and northern ( 16

Publication INC.

upper) parts has already been killed.

According to new research from the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS ), the Great Barrier Reef has lost half of its coral cover in the last 27 years. If global warming continues, we will not have the great barrier reef.

Another thing global warming is harming is animals. One animal is the polar bear. The big bears are losing

their habitat because of global warming. Global warming is also affecting their food. They have to wait through all the warm months to eat. They have lost about 15% of their average weight. These big bears are going extinct fast.

If we don’t act fast to save these things now, there will be nothing to save in the future.

Is it the Age of Mass Extinction?

By: Brendan Willis, 8th grade, Junior High School,

O

Clarkston

n my walk around my house, I spotted a beautiful Monarch butterfly resting on a branch: the beautiful orange with the black line outlined with white dots. It was such a calming moment that I was trying to stay still so it wouldn't fly away, but it did. I watched as it gracefully flew off into the trees, and I thought to myself how much I had ignored.

Sometimes, it is the small things in life that we take for granted. I knew that these superb creatures are endangered and I wondered why? I was astonished at what I found out.

According to biological diversity. org, in 1992 this butterfly species had a population of 683 million, which decreased to 25 million in 2015. How could these wonderful creatures die so fast? The problem is that we are destroying the milkweed plant with herbicides which Monarchs use to lay their eggs.

The Monarchs have actually been on the endangered list for quite a while, and people have been trying to help, but it isn't fixing the problem.

Too often, humans make choices without considering the natural consequences. Farmers growing crops for food were not intentionally trying to hurt the butterfly population. Does being more advanced mean we are not responsible for species we affect on our earth?

We as a human race need to find a balance between industrializing the world and helping out mother nature, not harming her. So what will you do?

www.KidsStandard.org

TECHNOLOGY

World’s Technology By: Anita Govindswamy, 5th grade, Deerfield Elementary, Rochester Hills

T

here are many pieces of today’s technology. However, have you ever wondered from where they came? The automobile and television both have a rich history beyond what they are today. Instead of seeing them as just cars and screens, I see these items as products of humankind’s work that have developed over the years.

Automobiles

Automobiles have improved the way people are transported over the years. In 1769-1770 carriages were used to transport people. The people who made the carriages had to make sure that the structure of the carriages was strong, lightweight, and flexible. The running gear was mainly made of springy wood such as hickory, oak, and ash. Wheels were made of hickory and iron. Around the 1800’s, companies developed steam carriages in England.

Scientists’ dreams were coming true, and in 1890, it is time for an electric car!

Built by William Morrison, they became a huge success. However, a French company had other ideas. They decided to make the first gasoline-powered car

with an actual engine. In 1891, this company’s dream came true. Soon, this was overtaken by the first gasoline-powered car that was successfully sold in the United States.

Oil deposits found in eastern Texas in 1901 helped the automobile industry tremendously as oil became cheaper and easily available. In 1908, assembly lines were introduced by Henry Ford, which also created a path for cars to be built without being too expensive. Ford Motor Company used the assembly line to manufacture the first Model T. After World War II, in 1947, cars became wider and stronger and more like the elegant design we have today. In 1960, front seats in the vehicles got seat belts. Over time, safety standards were developed, and cars became safer than they used to be. In 1997, the world’s first hybrid electric car was available for sale. Today, we have elegant cars that can be powered by various sources such as gasoline engines as well as electric motors. The future can make a change!

So now we need a break from traveling. Where are we again? Canada?

Nope, we have traveled to a place you have never heard of. It is called New York, where your beloved television (T.V.) was invented. Secretary Herbert Hoover had a dream inspired by the telephone: Instead of voices from another end, Hoover wanted to develop a visual experience.

Two screens were used in this experiment: a small screen and a large one. On the larger screen, parts of the face were seen. This made the face almost a black shadow. Some if its basic structure was similar to a telephone. For instance, instruments sensitive to light were installed (television) versus instruments sensitive to sound (telephone).

Movement of people was sensed and the sound of voices were transferred to a screen. When the television eventually worked, it seemed like a miracle to the people.

Scientists went further in their thinking. They tested large screens and small screens and concluded that the smaller screens had better response. Then finally the T.V. was perfected to the limits of technology in those days. The voice was clear, the movement was smooth, the visual response was beautiful, and the lighting was amazing. They made an electric current flow to a receiver which turns the currents into pictures. The pictures are then scanned and produced on a screen. Over fifteen pictures were sent for only one scene. Thank goodness, this technology was developed, which then evolved over time to give us entertainment like “Xfinity” and “Netflix” today!

It is important that we treasure technology we use. Long ago, there were no such things as a television or cars.

Imagine only watching your favorite movies at a theatre and going on dirt roads to get to your favorite place. We should never take things for granted.

Air Force. First of all, the night vision goggles are used to offload aircrafts at the down of night, which means to get the passengers off the plane safely and carefully without enemies attacking them or the other members of the Air Force. Without this technology, it would be be much more dangerous for the

passengers and the workers.

Also, the Air Force uses computers to track enemy or friendly forces so they can get ready to fight or to work together as a team to stop the enemy approaching. Computers are also used to track obstacles to make sure that the Aircraft does not crash into them. Lastly, the wireless technology is used for keeping computer systems running for important reasons that are classified, or to keep communication hubs running so that the other friendly forces could communicate to other operations about critical Intel and information.

Television

Technology in the Air Force By: Ava Palm, 5th grade, Deerfield Elementary,

S

Rochester Hills

enior Master Sergeant Coombs has been in the United States Air Force for 21 years. She has recently took a moment to provide me with information regarding technology in the Air Force. These are three interesting facts about how technology is used in the

DECEMBER 2016

17

Publication INC.

G L O B A L P R O B L E M S O LV I N G

SAVING THE ELEPHANTS By: Owen Birch, Cameron Fleming, Hayden Lamrouex, Alex Roell, Amanda Scott, Paige Szerlong, Joe Thornberry First Lego League, 6th Grade, Sashabaw Middle School, Clarkston

H

ave you ever been eating a candy bar or putting on a really great smelling lotion, and thought to yourself, “I wonder what ingredients go in this to make it taste/ smell so good?” or “I wonder how they make this?”

When we became the ENGINEERING ELEPHANTS for our 6th grade First Lego League ROBOTICS team and researched elephants, we wanted to pay attention to what goes into many foods and common household products, one of which is palm oil.

Palm Oil and Human Health Palm oil is an edible vegetable oil that comes from the fruit of oil palms, especially from the African oil palm.

Palm oil is added to Oreos, Doritos, orange soda, Coke, Pringles original, Fruit Loops, Colgate Strong Teeth, Mars (the candy bar), Ritz crackers, Skittles, to name a few. It is also in cereal, milk and a lot of medicines.

It is produced in the United States of America, China, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Nigeria and Germany, and other countries.

Processed palm oil is high in saturated fats. Most of the palm oil consumed in the United States is in the processed form, which can lead to an increase in LDL cholesterol and heart disease.

People should avoid eating too many

18

Publication INC.

foods containing palm oil and look for healthier alternatives.

Palm Oil and Elephant’s habitats Production of palm oil is bad for many animals, one of which are elephants.

Elephants are an endangered species.

When people are farming palm oil, they are destroying the elephant habitats in the process: people cut down the forests and the jungles in order to create palm oil plantations. Deforestation has many negative effects on the environment. Seventy percent of Earth’s land, animals and plants live in forests, and many cannot survive the deforestation that destroys their homes. If we humans keep this up, the elephants will be extinct before we know it.

According to Carol Buckley of Elephant Aid International, deforestation causes a lot of air pollution. Buckley traveled to Asia and Sumatra, where she saw acres and miles of clear-cut forest for the palm oil plantations. The air pollution in these areas is also bad for the human population because chemicals are used to seed the clouds to make rain.

What Can Be Done The World Wildlife Fund is working

on many different ways to prevent people from using palm oil. Some of the many ways include: 1. Development of sustainable palm oil through WWF’s Roundtable on Sustainable palm oil (RSPO), which is a large international group of palm oil growers and buyers 2. Encouraging food companies to not use palm oil as one of the ingredients and to use certified sustainable palm oil instead.

3. Getting rid of palm oil production that leads to the destruction of forests.

We all can be part of the solution.

What we all can do is to look at the ingredients in the products that we eat and use and choose products that don’t have palm oil or that have sustainable palm oil so that we are not part of the problem.

Here are some examples of products containing palm oil and some good alternatives.

Palm Oil Products Palm Oil-free Products Margarine Olive oil Oreos Bonne Maman butter cookies Cheerios Life cereal Nutella Jiffy Peanut Butter Cheez-it Tostitos Dove cream bar Dove body soap L’Oreal vine pro shampoo Kirkland shampoo

www.KidsStandard.org

At Stars & Stripes we understand how important it is to stimulate a child’s mind by developing motor skills & coordination.

We have activities for all ages, skill levels & interests.

Stars & Stripes Kids Activity Center offers SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!

#DoubleTheFun

Gymnastics (Ages 1-18) Warrior Training (Ages 5-16) Tumbling (Ages 5-18) Dance (Ages 2.5-16) Karate (Ages 3-18) Piano (Ages 5-Adult) Preschool Competitive Cheerleading Competitive Gymnastics Birthday Parties Summer Camps

Schedule available at www.StarsandStripesKids.com 4630 White Lake Rd. Clarkston, MI 48346 248-625-3547

G R A D U AT E S

Being a World Citizen By: Anna Větrovcová Flight Attendant, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Former Student, Lake Orion High School

W

anderlust - a strong desire to travel. I have always felt it, always had the impulse to see more, to discover more. My first big step towards my dream to travel was a move from my home in Prague, Czech Republic, to Michigan, USA, for a year. Since then, I have visited twenty four countries as traveling has become my full-time job. More than that, it has become my passion and my life.

I live in Dubai - one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. I work as a flight attendant, and it is part of my job to take care of people from different countries, religions, and cultures. I have to communicate with them even when we do not speak the same language.

I have to understand that what might seem normal to me might be offensive to them, or words that sound rude to me, they might consider to be a compliment.

So what is the key to getting along with everybody in the world? It’s simple – respect. When I moved to Michigan five years ago, there were many things I did not understand: school dress code, Superbowl, or Fahrenheit instead of Celsius.

In Dubai, the culture shock was even stronger: Islamic culture, ladies covering themselves in 115°F heat, and fasting during Ramadan. Before I started to judge the culture I didn’t

20

Publication INC.

So what is the key to getting along with everybody in the world? It’s simple – respect.

— Anna Větrovcová

understand, I went to a mosque and had a very kind local explain some things to me. After she very patiently answered my questions, my perspective changed. Even though I might not have agreed with everything, I understood their views and beliefs. I could see it from their point of view, and I could respect it.

My job can be tough, but what makes it worthwhile is the relationship I build with passengers. When I show them

even the tiniest bit of respect, such as saying “thank you” in their own language, the world lights up in their eyes.

The bond between us becomes stronger, and I earn their respect and their trust in return.

To me, respect means the understanding that there is no universal truth. It is the realization that the way I do things is not necessarily the best way to do them and, most definitely, not the only way to do them. The more you travel, the more you find out about the world. You see the differences between cultures and customs, but more importantly, you see the similarities between people. We are

all the same, no matter the color of our skin, our beliefs, or our language. We are all humans, and we should celebrate our differences and learn from each other as much as we can. We should always strive to be better and let our experiences make us grow stronger.

I have left my heart in many different countries. Home is no longer a definition of one place. Home is a feeling that I belong somewhere. All young people should travel to take a look at the world from a different perspective. Take a semester abroad, go on holidays overseas, take a gap year and go explore what the world has to offer. As someone wise once said, “Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”

www.KidsStandard.org

C O L L E G E TO U R

Robert Tomlinson Senior, Oxford University, United Kingdom, Major: Philosophy, Politics, and Economics

By: Chloe Iwaniw, 11th Grade, Lake Orion High School

What made you decide to study economics and politics?

I

chose to study politics because I liked the idea of a subject that moves and grows with events in the real world and that deals in measurable impacts on people’s lives. When I left high school, I wanted to study political philosophy and discuss complex questions about how our society should be organised and the best way to do that was by studying Politics, Philosophy, and Economics.

After doing a bit of economics, though, I found the economic method of modelling really satisfying. It offers a great avenue to understand how our very complicated social world works, even outside of traditional economic questions.

I also like the problem solving aspect.

These disciplines are more than just learning a series of facts and figures – you learn techniques and then get to apply them to novel problems. For example, you might know how firms produce if they are a monopoly, but what if you introduce a new firm to the market? Or a new candidate to an

DECEMBER 2016

election? A series of simple techniques can actually get you very far in terms of finding the route causes of real world problems.

Has studying these subjects in depth affected your view of the world?

I definitely look at the world more critically. Particularly in issues relating to those subjects, for example, I question any simple, even if immediately appealing, explanation for the surprise US election result. Studying these subjects makes you see that there is almost always more to the world than can be captured in a single sweeping claim: just because an answer makes sense doesn’t mean it is right. Generally, it just trains you to question arguments and argue better yourself.

Can one develop a sense of being a “citizen of the world” if he or she knows more about politics in general?

We shouldn’t base any citizenship on knowledge, mainly because it is costly to acquire. Perhaps it helps us understand people from other cultures better, but this can be a potentially dangerous attitude. Political systems don’t affect

people as much as as their cultural environments and economic relations.

Thinking we understand other cultures just because we know how their political system works can be very patronising and an oversimplification.

Does the economy in the UK greatly differ from the US economy?

In terms of macroeconomics, there are enough similarities that the same models apply: there are a central bank controlling interest rates and potential for similar shocks (such as the 2008 recession). One thing people talk about quite a bit is that the mobility of the labour force is greater in the US. There is also less general social welfare.

A lot of economists think this means that the US recovers more quickly from adverse shocks because people stay unemployed for less time. At a more granular level, healthcare is a huge problem for economics and clearly tackled in very different ways in the UK and the US. In this case, politics and economics tie in, and the UK has arguably been able to overcome political barriers to offer a (partial) solution in a failing market. The US is still grappling with these.

21

Publication INC.

PA R E N T ’ S C O R N E R

Nurturing Responsible Global Citizens By: Robert Ward, Thomas Starr King Middle School, Los Angeles, CA

E

very parent naturally strives to raise children who are respectful and responsible—as much for their child’s sake as for their own peace of mind. Yet in this interconnected global village, in which we all now live, character traits like courtesy and cooperation are only a first step.

To truly be a world citizen, confidence and compassion, creativity and collaboration, as well as comprehension and capabilities, must also be key elements in the expanding skillset of every child.

Parents should want their children to not only to be increasingly prepared to compete on a global scale but also to become people of integrity and sensitivity.

Of course, such admirable goals for our youth will only be accomplished when parents and teachers join as allies in education and as partners in the nurturing of children. From the family room to the classroom and back again, all kids should experience a cohesiveness that attends to the whole child.

Thankfully, parents and teachers are beginning to embrace the importance of equally honoring and developing the social, emotional, soulful, and academic needs of every child.

Merely saying we want to raise responsible children is only one part of our end goal for 21st century kids.

Being Responsible Means Being Reliable and Responsive

Responsibility does not just mean accountability. More than simply taking credit or blame for the end result of one’s 22

Publication INC.

crucial as being dependable, honest, and respectful.

Bullying and bad mouthing anyone in any setting, be it on the playground or on social media, are not only unkind and destructive, they are the insidious ways we like to pretend that some of our fellow human beings are fundamentally different from us or are not deserving of common dignity and regard.

Responsible global citizens, however, build bridges, create community, and seek mutually beneficial solutions. These are the types of kids that today’s parents and teachers jointly strive to raise and educate.

Worthy Adult Role Models and Guides

Robert Ward is an enthusiastic educator and champion for children. He is the author of the #1 Amazon new release, A Teacher’s Inside Advice to Parents: How Children Thrive with Leadership, Love, Laughter, and Learning. For more insight, visit Robert’s website at www.RewardingEducation.com. choices, responsibility also entails consistent reliability and trustworthiness, even before any action is taken. Adults must progressively cultivate this type of maturity and autonomy in every child so that the youngster’s good reputation precedes them.

Of course, these honorable traits are vital not only in the workplace but in cyberspace, where kids today are routinely interacting with peers from around the world. For better or for worse, the digital footprints children leave today may haunt or help them many years hence. Thus, it is imperative that we train kids to truly be responsible.

To that end, being responsible also means being responsive and attuned to the feelings and needs of others.

This empathy component is just as

Yet it is not nearly enough to simply tell kids to treat others as they would like to be treated, to believe in themselves, to pursue their dreams, and to take their schooling seriously. Parents and teachers must also be active, intentional role models for children, in both word and deed.

How do you as a parent, as well as your child’s teachers, live a life that exemplifies the balance between responsibility, relationship, and recreation? Do you put first things first, as well as often put others first? Do you also model perseverance as a means to filling your days with passion and purpose? Do you regularly display an attitude of gratitude that frequently manifests into actions of appreciation?

Thinking globally while acting locally takes on a whole new meaning when it comes to parents and teachers nurturing children to be responsible global citizens. Thanks to technology, this vast world has recently become a whole lot smaller, and we owe it to our kids to ourselves be ambassadors of leadership, love, laughter, and learning.

Our actions do indeed hold enormous influence on kids—right here, right now, right in our little living rooms and classrooms. If parents and teachers work together, each child will not only lead a life of personal success and satisfaction, they will also have a positive, productive impact on the world at large.

www.KidsStandard.org

PA R E N T ’ S C O R N E R

YOUR CHILD’S ROLE AS A GLOBAL CITIZEN

Maggie Razdar Publisher/Founder

L

earners develop confidence in standing up for their beliefs when exploring themes of global citizenship. They are stronger communicators capable of higher order thinking skills.

Additionally, they develop the ability to evaluate the ethics and impact of their actions on a broader scale with far-reaching implications.

It was my privilege to work with your children as they completed their articles on this topic. It gave me greater insight into how these students work towards respecting themselves, their communities, and others. As they thought deeply and critically about what it meant to be a global citizen, I learned from them.

Our writers have debated and discussed the definition of global citizenship. You can recognize your children as citizens of the world when they:

To be truly effective as a world citizen, young people need to be flexible, creative and proactive. It will only take place if their environment allows them to do that. Since parents are busy with their own activities it is very crucial to be conscious about the example we are setting for our kids. They must solve problems, make decisions, think critically, communicate ideas effectively and work well within teams and groups. The 21st century global community recognizes these skills as success predictors. Your children, however, will not develop these skills and qualities without the use of active learning methods that encourage collaboration and critical thinking. With the interconnected and interdependent nature of our world, a global community is not beyond our reach. It is here, entwined in our everyday lives. Our legacies are woven together like a tapestry, and our children are weaving their own brightly colored patterns into the expanding cloth.

The fast-changing, more globalized world offers enormous opportunities for today’s youth. Global citizenship is more than self-confidence and self-awareness.

It creates connections in a world more diverse yet more near than ever before.

Famous psychologist and education thought leader Jerome Bruner summed

• Are aware of the wider world and have a sense of their own citizenship within it • Respect and value diversity • Have an understanding of how the world works • Are caring to take action by social injustices • Participate in the local and global community levels • Display a willingness to make the world a more equitable and sustainable place • Take responsibility for his or her actions

DECEMBER 2016

up what I believe is the essence of education: “Education must, be not only a transmission of culture but also a provider of alternative views of the world and a strengthener of the will to explore them.”

On behalf of Kids Standard’s family we wish you and your family a very

Merry Christmas!

Hope your holidays are magical and bring you the best of

New Year 2017!!

23

Publication INC.

Give the gift of the Outdoors Simply splashtastic The 2017 Oakland County Waterparks season waterpark pass provides unlimited visits all summer to Red Oaks or Waterford Oaks waterparks.

Family Fun - An annual vehicle permit provides unlimited access to eight award-winning Oakland County Parks that provide 68 miles of trails, nature centers, dog parks, beaches and other amenities, plus entry to special events and fireworks displays.

ket

ur tic $ 30 buys yo to family fun

AT

p d g parks stroll dog e stroll skate p y parties quality q conservationion waterr qualit g sno ski snowshoe BMX disc golf p p ks ski waterpar recreation BMX g reunion preservat p secure outings gs sec picnicc ou weddings volunteer adaptive lessons picn d und units buses year roun t nnis cabins g f tenn market y mini golf y scouts mobile che kayak center farmers ocach geoc sk bike nature p ks ski ou mountain beaches waterpar nic picni p nature relax nis parks lessonsgolf p gp enn dog p explore camp mini g te ion skate stroll p plassh trails conservat sp y parties quality geocacheike golf g ion water q disc g nowshoe preservat sno bi e recreation BMX g reunion p adaptive k ngs p ack utin g secure mountain out p horseba buses weddingsstewardship abins volunteer cabins units round y year yak scouts mobile kay farmers market snowshoe ion p ks ski outings natture center g reun n beaches waterpar picnic lessons p cabins nature relaxdog OAKS D parks p tennis p g explore g golf y stroll miniHIGHLAN pND OAKS y parties geocache kayak e q quality golf g g nservation skate ure con GROVELA water bike natu ionOAKS BMX disc ORION OAKS preservat p OAKSmountain recreation ADDISON y yurts yur p g secure adaptive OAKS LYON p horseback ip DENCE volunteer buses weddings OAKS stewardsh units INDEPEN ROSE round PARK e y DOG year outs mobile RED kate sk sco market OAKS conservation er enter farmers ate center ion wa p ks skigsnowshoe p preservat p adaptive beaches waterpar outings reunion p picnic volunteer natture relax lessons cabins mobile units p g parks g tennis golf oll dog 000* sttro y scouts mini*P00 kayak farmers p y parties BLE geocacheNOT quality q golf g nature center TRANSFERA disc g bike recreatio recreation USE ONLY DAY mountain recreation BMX k yurts mobile secure g FOR GOOD ip horsebac buses weddings round stewardsh market year

2017

MIT FEES ANNUAL VEHICLE PER Non-residents $30 Resident* $48 e & Active military ptiv Ada , iors Sen & Active military $22 Seniors, Adaptive $32 Non-resident

Visit OaklandCountyParks.com to order or purchase at one of many locations listed on the website.

GROVELAND OAKS

A rechargeable gift card which can be used for Oakland County Parks programs.

ADDISON OAKS

OaklandCountyParks.com HIGHLAND OAKS

CE INDEPENDEN OAKS

Let us cater your next party!

LYON OAKS ROSE OAKS

HELPS MAINTA AR IN LL urce Natural Reso Protection ss Water Acce Points

UR YO

EVER YD O

RED OAKS DOG PARK & TER NATURE CEN

Campgrounds

Trails

Nature Centers

O

AK

Maintenance of parks & buildings

LAN

Security

D CO UNT

S

OA

RK

ORION OAKS

Dog Parks R I FF SHKLE AND COUNTY

YP

A

m

ntyParks.co

OaklandCou

Come see our fresh

weekly specials Come see what we’re all about!

7121 Dixie Hwy. Clarkston, MI 48346 | 248-625-6460