8 2 2014stsn p25 34 youth

Youth

www.SanTanSun.com

August 2 – 15, 2014

SIZZLING SUMMER SALE! American Products with Factory Prices

New Merchandise Arriving Daily!

% 0 5 F F s O e s s e r Matt

FINANCING AVAILABLE FOR 12 MONTHS WITH NO INTEREST!

480-786-0777

| 1980 N. Alma School Road, Chandler, AZ 85224

Hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Visit us online: www.MyAmericanFurnitureGalleries.com

25

26

Youth

August 2 – 15, 2014

www.SanTanSun.com

Chandler National team seeks world title

BY TIM J. RANDALL

Greg Hansell has lived a life of baseball, and now his passion is teaching the traditions and love for the game to the next generation of players, as head coach of the Chandler National All-Star team.

“This is a great group of kids who have worked hard each day to get better,” Hansell says. “It is a privilege to be their coach.”

The team will be in San Bernardino, California, until Aug. 10 to compete for the right to advance to Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and play in the annual classic Little League World Series. The event draws hundreds of thousands of viewers each August to the ESPN airwaves to watch which team will represent the United States against the international winner.

Chandler National has the opportunity after going 12-0 thus far in competition.

“After the All-Star team was selected from the district player rosters, we went undefeated in district and state,” Hansell says. “This team has been on a great roll.”

This next step, the regionals, is a truetest of the quality of baseball that a team plays.

“To get here is tremendous, but with the region containing Utah, Hawaii, Nevada and the strong California teams, it is not going to be easy,” he says.

Perhaps, but an Arizona team representing the West region is not unprecedented. In fact, previously in 2003 and 2007, Chandler district squads represented the region in Williamsport.

“We are going to compete,” Hansell explains. “This team has great talent and even greater heart.”

If Chandler National can advance out of the round of four-game pool play, it would play in a semifinal and subsequent final to head to Pennsylvania.

“Every year I have coached these kids they have gotten a step closer, they have gotten better,” he says The 13 teammates, all 11- and 12-yearolds, have learned the game playing Little League.

“Chandler National does such a great job in instilling the fundamentals of baseball to the kids. We have great coaches and great families,” Hansell notes.

The regionals will pose challenges, but the team has stars such as Will Maxey, Kyle Ponzo, Hansell’s son Joshua along with 10 other smart and talented gloves and hitters. Of course, the team has one other secret weapon in Hansell.

Hansell was in “The Show.” From 1989-1994, the fireball right-handed relief pitcher battled his way through the minor leagues and in April 1995 made his Major League debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers. In 1996, he played for the Minnesota Twins, 1997 the Milwaukee Brewers and finished his career in 1999 with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Over four seasons, in 106 games and 137 innings, Hansell brought his energy and vigor for the game to the ballpark each day. It is that enthusiasm which is imbued in his all-star players.

“This is simply a great team,” he says.

BASEBALL: The Chandler National All-Star team is in California playing for the right to advance to the Little League World Series. Submitted photo “They have come together, work hard and support each other to maximize their potential.”

There is one more reason to bet on Chandler National. The San Bernardino Regional games are played about an hour away from Dodger Stadium, a venue that Hansell knows well.

“I have three pictures of me playing there,” he says. “Once competing at

11 years old, at age 18 in a high school championship game and at 24 when I played for the Dodgers. It is a pretty special place to me,” he says. Now that is approbation.

Tim J. Randall is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at news@santansun.com.

WHEN CHOOSING YOUR ORTHODONTIST From Dr. Chamberlain’s Desktop arlier this month, I wrote about an experience I had while traveling on the plane from Buffalo to Phoenix. The article reviewed a conversation I had with a gentleman about some steps to determine if an orthodontics office would be a good fit. It Dr. Thomas Chamberlain discussed the difference between a general dentist and an orthodontist and how Google reviews can reveal much about a practice before you make the first phone call. Today I’d like to go further on some ideas you can use to help determine your decision on an orthodontist. After all, if 93-percent of people surveyed feel that a good-looking smile can help determine your employment and career status, then it must be an important decision.

After an initial search, involving a look at Google reviews, a phone call to the office is the next step. You should be looking for timeliness of the appointment and the hours they keep during the week. Believe it or not, but some offices only

E

operate 8am - 3pm. That may not be a problem if you work from home or home school your children but for many others that can become restrictive. Hopefully the phone visit made you feel comfortable as well. Next, you are on to your first visit. Most, if not all orthodontic offices offer a free orthodontic exam. However, not all will give much time to that exam, and some may not take initial records like photos and a panoramic x-ray. This is a very important step and helps the orthodontist and the patient make some decisions on what may be necessary for treatment. A good orthodontic office will take these records and give you a copy of them to go over at home.

Further, during the exam process, make sure you are looking at the office. Is it clean and tidy? Is it running on schedule while you are there? Does the staff seem happy to be there and are they patient to help and answer questions?

When looking at the orthodontist, ask yourself, does he or she seem trustworthy and competent? Is their demeanor pleasant or abrasive? You will be working with this person closely for the next several months so you want someone

who you feel you can communicate with. Are they approachable? Look at the equipment in the office.

Is the office using technology that will help make the process more efficient on your time? Will the technology in the office make your treatment more predictable?

Look at the treatment plan. Is it something you can understand and conceptually agree with? Lastly, look at the treatment fees. There is some variation with treatment fees but even more so with how those fees are broken up and taken care of. Do they offer “pay in full” discounts, multi-child discounts, and are they contracted with your insurance? Do they offer extended payment arrangements, zero-interest financing or lower down payment arrangements? A good orthodontic office will try to meet your needs in every aspect of the visit.

Naturally, I didn't mention all this to the man sitting next to me on the plane (I am passionate about what I do, but I also have empathy for any captive audiences that didn't choose who they happen to sit next to). However, the conversation sparked some important thoughts that I wanted to share in this article. I hope you find it helpful with your orthodontic search. If you happen to read this article and come to Chamberlain Orthodontics for a consultation, I would love to hear how we live up to the above questions.

Chamberlain Orthodontics Receives 2014 Best of Chandler Award!

Dr. Thomas Chamberlain

—New Patient Offers—

480-448-2474

www.SmileStraight.com www.facebook.com/smilestraight

Two Chandler Locations: 3800 W. Ray Road (Ray & McClintock)

1055 W. Queen Creek Rd. (Queen Creek and Alma School)

Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Tuesday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Friday: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

FREE Orthodontic Exam and Consultation ($250 Value) Offer expires 9-30-14

FREE

iPad Mini OR

$350 off Full Braces Offer expires 9-30-14

www.SanTanSun.com

Youth

August 2 – 15, 2014

27

28

Youth

August 2 – 15, 2014

Free SAT, ACT practice tests SAT or ACT practice tests will be offered Saturday, Aug. 16, at Tutor House Tutoring Services, 100 W. Boston St., Suite 4, Chandler.

A welcome and registration is held from 9 a.m. to 9:15 a.m., followed by testing from 9:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Students should bring a calculator to the session.

Participants will become familiar with the test format, question types, timing and content of the college entrance exams. Test results and analysis are given at a separately scheduled conference. The free practice test is offered in addition to Tutor House’s regular SAT and ACT

prep programs.

Tutor House is a family-owned and –operated learning center helping students reach their full potential by providing an individualized approach to education. A wide range of oneon-one and small-group tutoring for students in grades K through 12 is available, including tutoring in reading, math, writing, Spanish, study skills, algebra, geometry, calculus, SAT/ACT prep and more. Sign up at www.TutorHouseAZ.com to reserve a seat, or call (480) 857-1222 or email Tutoring@TutorHouseAZ.com for more information.

Quality medical care for more than 25 years. We welcome new patients!

Chandler Family Practice, P.C. Mark H. Wilson, M.D. Lois Henderson, FNP Routine medical care, physical examinations, sports physicals, minor surgical procedures, pediatric and women’s care, internal medicine and diabetes.

480-963-9334

Most Insurances Accepted Se habla español

Same Day Appointments Available

www.MyChandlerFamilyPractice.com

1076 W. Chandler Blvd., Ste. 113 • Chandler • NW Corner Alma School & Chandler

www.SanTanSun.com

Learn about kids’ activities at new event in Chandler

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

The Valley is filled with expos devoted to kids and their parents. But Gary Klayman, a publisher with the website Macaroni Kid, saw a need for an event suited to just children.

So he created Kid’s Day Off Activity Showcase and Expo, which takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort Hotel Ballroom, One San Marcos Pl., Chandler.

“There are a lot of events that are kid friendly, but there is a mix of adult stuff,” Klayman says. “This is pure kids.”

As a matter of fact, the only activity related to the rest of the family is “Parents Time Out area,” where they will receive free massages.

Admission and activities are free.

The event will include some food for purchase. At Kid’s Day Off, families can learn about camps, schools and college planning, as well as fitness, arts and crafts, sports and recreation.

As for entertainment, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Radio Disney road crew will entertain the audience with music and activities. Two stages will house performances by Jeanne’s School of Dance, martial arts organizations and LEGO programs.

“We are trying to do a cross section for the younger school-aged (children) to the teens,” he says.

The East Valley Game Truck will make a stop in the afternoon for a few hours for those who enjoy playing video

games.

Arizona Rick Balloon Cowboy, who Klayman says does unique balloon creations, will also be a part of the festivities.

“It’s incredible,” he says of such balloon creations as lobsters and dogs.

“We are also going to have an oldfashioned ice cream eating contest,” Klayman says.

A raffle will benefit ICAN, a free, family-centered youth service in the East Valley.

Tickets are free, but folks are asked to preregister by visiting www.eventbrite. com/e/kids-day-off-activity-showcaseexpo-tickets-11719698935. Advance tickets are automatically entered in a drawing to win complimentary passes to popular local attractions.

Macaroni Kid Chandler and Macaroni Kid Queen Creek/San Tan Valley—www. chandler.macaronikid.com—is an online publication and weekly newsletter that showcases kids’ activities.

“This will be one of three major events we are putting on in the next four months,” Klayman says. “It’s very rewarding to bring activities like this to the community. We are trying to make it a community event. We are trying to work with a wide range of folks to treat it as a community event.”

Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@santansun.com.

Subscribers Save

30% NOW!

Whitening •

• Veneers • Digital X-rays and More

We want to see you smile!

OUR 2014 - 2015 SEASON

Providing personalized general dentistry services, including aesthetic and restorative procedures in a modern, caring and professional environment overlooking relaxing views of Historic San Marcos Golf Course.

S tudio Classes

FOR ALL AGES

Begin August 11 Chandler Location

www.CopperstarRep.org

Hilarry A. Douglas, D.D.S., P.C. FAMILY DENTISTRY

575 W. CHANDLER BLVD., STE. 223

480-855-7888

Many insurance plans accepted and financing available

(Chandler Blvd. between Alma School Rd. and Arizona Ave.)

Youth

www.SanTanSun.com

August 2 – 15, 2014

Preschool Nationally Accredited

Degreed Teachers Sign Language & Spanish

Cooking, Gardening & Science Experiments

www.

preschool.com

29

30

Youth

August 2 – 15, 2014

www.SanTanSun.com

Open house set for police explorer program

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

The Chandler Police Department is hosting an open house to recruit candidates for its police explorer program, a unique, hands-on experience with the CPD. The event is scheduled for 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 13, at the Chandler Heights Substation, 4040 E. Chandler Heights Rd. It’s one of two held throughout the year, according to Officer and Police Explorer Director John Somerville.

The goal of the program, which was introduced to the CPD in 1985 by Officer Kelvin Helmick, is to provide entry-level experience, or educational opportunities in law enforcement, Somerville explains.

Officials at the open house will discuss the program’s minimum requirements, as well as opportunities, such as ride along, sitting with dispatch or training for emergency management and expectations.

Those interested must be at least 14 years old, a freshman in high school and have a C average or better. A background check is also conducted.

Students can participate until they are 21 years old.

Somerville says right now they have approximately 55 explorers in the program, which is pretty much split with male and female participants.

Up to 15 new members join every recruiting session.

“We have some that are leaving the program because they are moving off to college. Others enlist in the service,” he explains.

Anywhere between 80 percent and 90 percent of the program’s participants continue with their post-secondary education and earn a college education. Many of the explorers are hired by the department.

“The other aspect of this program is helping in developing outstanding citizens and members of our community,” Somerville says.

The program meets weekly and explorers have to attend at least two meetings a month. They must also participate in at least one community service activity each month, such as helping the records office, taking on administrative tasks or helping supplement patrol at large civic events. One the of the program’s biggest events is taking care of lost children at the Ostrich Festival.

“So the officers don’t have to worry about them and can worry about other pressing matters,” Somerville says.

Explorer Capt. Marcus Mathis, 19, joined the police explorer program four and a half years ago and recently became the captain.

“I have always been interested in law enforcement,” he says. “My ultimate goal is to be a sergeant of a patrol team or a specialty team like gang or narcotics.”

Open

HOUSE

August 3rd & 10th from 1 to 5 p.m.

A HIGH-QUALITY PROGRAM AT AN AFFORDABLE TUITION ✔ Creative Curriculum, Zoo-phonics ✔ Introduce Spanish & Sign Language ✔ Large Playground ✔ Low Student to Teacher Ratio (Five to One) ✔ Dramatic Play / Library Center ✔ Science and Math ✔ Manipulatives / Music ✔ Sensory Table / Writing Center ✔ Play Dough / Block Center ✔ Creative Art (Not Crafts)

Space is Limited—Call Today!

480-313-4738 www.exploringmyworld.com FACEBOOK.COM/EXPLORINGMYWORLD

1500 W. Germann Road Located inside Chandler Presbyterian Church (between S. Alma School and S. Dobson Roads)

CLASSES: Parent/Toddler

3 year old class 4/5 year old class

Ratio (10 /2)

Mathis admits that he did not know a lot about law enforcement when he was younger, which has changed since becoming involved in the program.

“It’s a great experience,” he says.

His new skills run the gamut from how to conduct a traffic stop to investigating a homicide.

As the captain, he informs his team of meetings and keeps track of attendance. At events, Mathis says he works command and radios, while assigning fellow explorers to other tasks. As one of the commanders of the emergency response team unit, Mathis also helps with training.

“When they get called out, we go out with them,” he says of the Special Assignment Unit. “We make sure they have water and are hydrated. We make sure they are good to complete the task they are assigned.”

So far this year, he has contributed nearly 600 hours for community service. Last year, Mathis won the Explorer of the Year, Community Service Award and completed more than 500 hours of community service.

Somerville says he would not have the law enforcement career he has had for the last 20 years if it was not for the explorer program.

“I have had a very blessed career, and I attribute that to being an explorer and learning what I did,” he explains. “I really think that’s what helped me have the career.”

COMPETITION: Explorer Capt. Marcus Mathis and Explorer Sgt. Julie Mathisen discuss investigation strategies at the 2014 Tempe Explorer Competition where they won first place. Submitted photo

For more information about the program, call Somerville at (480) 7824951.

Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@santansun.com.

Youth

www.SanTanSun.com

Stress-free homework A reference for parents searching for solutions

BY CAROL ELIAS DIRECTOR OF NEW VISTAS CENTER FOR EDUCATION

Here’s a familiar scenario for many parents. It’s homework time in your household.

The children have their quiet place, Carol Elias. the light is good, Submitted photo and the pencils are sharpened. Then, your 8-year-old daughter says she needs your help.

“Of course,” you reply, ready to apply your knowledge. You concentrate on the problem and begin to explain the solution when you look up and she has left the room. Now what?

How should you manage homework time? How can you help to make this time less stressful for you and your children? What’s the difference between homework and studying? What’s the purpose of homework anyway?

Simply stated, homework is the extension of and reinforcement of classroom learning apart from the classroom. Children also learn important character traits such as persistence, consistency and self-discipline, all of which become key ingredients leading to sound study habits. With this in mind, it’s important to find a calm moment to

discuss your expectations regarding your children’s responsibilities surrounding homework. Here are some talking points to use during this conversation: It is your children’s responsibility to: • Care about their homework. Tensions build when you care more than they do.

• Complete all of their assigned work on time and to the best of their ability.

• Make up for any work missed due to absence.

• Keep a daily calendar or assignment sheet. Keeping to a routine helps to ensure the successful completion of homework. Scheduling extracurricular activities during these times will undermine this responsibility.

• Communicate with the teacher when extenuating circumstances prevent the completion of assigned homework on the date due. The same is true of letting the teacher know that certain classroom work is not fully understood.

• Deal with problems at school. (If students state they have a problem at school, let them know that they have the ability to deal with it. You can call ahead to give the teacher a “heads up.”)

• Agree on ground rules for the following: neatness, thoroughness, organization and consistency.

• Show you their homework after it’s graded.

The following suggestions are parental

responsibilities surrounding homework: • Work with your children to establish a specific agreement concerning the appropriate time and place to complete homework every school day. Consider practical helps such as time-in/timeout sheets, posting a calendar with due dates for all to see and carrying an assignment book.

• Adhere to a mutually established routine.

• Monitor but do not do the homework.

• Set an example by limiting distractions, such as turning off your phone, turning off the radio or TV and quietly working on your responsibilities alongside your children. Such tasks could include: paying bills, preparing dinner or folding laundry. Your close proximity, especially for children who are younger, makes you available to provide support if necessary.

• If your children are young, discuss a logical place to begin homework. This teaches them important Executive Functions like organizing, time management, logical analysis, etc.

• Celebrate your children’s victories and accomplishments. Applaud their effort, hard work and persistence (not their intelligence).

• Never bribe.

• Never complain about your own responsibilities or speak negatively about school or teachers in front of your child.

• Never exempt children from doing homework.

• Never hover. Be clear that homework is their responsibility.

• Never rescue your children from the

August 2 – 15, 2014

31

Pencils, Parents, Precepts and Practicalities This is the sixth installment in an eight-part series about helping your child succeed in school. natural consequences that occur if they do not behave responsibly about their homework.

Of course, frustration and wasted time can be avoided by logically providing your children with an organized work area before starting homework: Pens, pencils, paper, protractor, construction paper, day planner or calendar or assignment notebook, eraser, ruler, calculator, crayons or colored pencils, scissors, tape, glue, extra paper, etc.

Stress and homework do not need to be synonymous. A clear demarcation of boundaries provides peace of mind for both child and parent in the area of expectations. Parents who stay out of the way of negative consequences occurring from their children’s mistakes will then be able to offer empathetic, supportive response to the pain in which they find themselves.

Carol Elias is director of New Vistas Center for Education, a preschool and elementary school serving advanced and gifted students in the East Valley.

New Vistas has been recognized by Johns Hopkins University CTY as a Top 10 School. NVCE is celebrating its 35th anniversary.

32

Youth

August 2 – 15, 2014

www.SanTanSun.com

New Vistas expands Mastermind classes This fall marks the continued expansion of Mastermind, learning incorporating mathematics, arts, science, technology, reading, writing, social studies, Latin, geography and engineering. The classes are part of New Vistas’ extended curriculum for all students preschool through sixth grades.

Mastermind is a system of instruction which presents questions meant to challenge students to search for reallife solutions. For example, consider the following mathematics-based question posed by Intel’s Design Education challenge: “Why is studying change important?”

A sixth grader would then utilize mathematics, science and language arts to determine how to model or simulate natural phenomena and answer several questions like, “How do you construct and use trend line data to predict future occurrences” or, “How can spreadsheets help with data analysis?”

Students explore such questions as they research natural phenomena, design simulations in the laboratory or classroom setting, gather data, use spreadsheets to analyze and represent their data, and create presentations of their findings. The process of finding a solution dictates the need for each student to acquire new knowledge from many sources to find the answer.

Mastermind concepts are not new, but have been at the core of New Vistas’ instructional philosophy from the beginning.

In addition to finding the answers to real-life problems, students also employ high-level executive functions such as

organizing, planning, goal setting, time management and acceptable methods for organizing information. Such executive functions are learned at New Vistas at an early age and are responsible for life skills, such as clear communications, logical planning, organizing thoughts and materials and learning time management to effectively complete project assignments.

“Through Mastermind curriculum and its permeation into all subject areas, students learn the keys of authentic problem solving,” says Carol Elias, the school’s director.

“In the real world, we are called upon to draw from many educational disciplines to arrive at logical and accurate conclusions.

We are thrilled to have the talented teachers necessary to expand this existing approach to instruction.”

Diane Moll of the computer department says although not all students will seek careers in engineering or information technology, there is tremendous value in students understanding the practical application of knowledge and how each area complements the other.

“Teaching students expanded reasoning and problem-solving skills help them to successfully navigate into higher education and future careers,” Moll explains.

“Each student derives great satisfaction in a job well done, adding to the joy of learning.”

This year, New Vistas was named the Top School in Science and Engineering in the elementary division based on the quality of student science project submissions to

WORKING TOGETHER: Raj Chopra and Zayn Mowzoon-Mogharrabi adjust their computer data as they use teamwork to program the desired actions of a robot. Submitted photo

the Arizona Science and Engineering Fair sponsored by Intel, Helios and other major high-tech companies. That award, Elias says, confirms the effectiveness of the school’s Mastermind program and its associated advanced curriculum.

New Vistas Center for Education was named a Top 10 School by Johns Hopkins University CTY and Top Science and Engineering School by Intel, Helios and other high-tech companies. Founded in 1979, is a private preschool through sixth grade. It is located at 670 N. Arizona Ave., Suite 35, Chandler. New Vistas is celebrating its 35th anniversary.

Free fun for dads and kids SanTan Sun-area fathers or guardians and their children ages 5 to 11 are invited to learn about the Chandler-Gilbert Y-Adventure Guides/Princess programs and meet current program participants at a free swim party and barbecue event from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, at the Chandler-Gilbert YMCA, 1655 W. Frye Rd., Chandler.

The Guides program for dads and sons and Princesses for dads and daughters are two separate camping groups, with eight or nine monthly campouts scheduled per year.

Additionally, groups compete in an annual Pinewood Derby Race and attend other outings like baseball games, a father/daughter “sweetheart” dance, ice skating and parade participation. The program is open to all and aims to help build positive bonds between fathers and their children.

To learn more, visit www. adventureguidesandprincesses.com.

Carebear Preschool At Fulton Ranch and Riggs GET YOUR CHILD READY FOR KINDERGARTEN!

Half-Day & Full-Day Programs for 2 to 5-year-olds Space is limited!

Registering for Fall 2014-2015 • Classes to Meet all Schedules • Huge State-of-the-art Playground and Splash Pad at Fulton • Academic Work Stations • Music • Cutting Edge Curriculum Aligns With Arizona Common Core Standards • Creative Play

FULTON RANCH RIGGS ROAD (480) 802-0058 (480) 219-9049

• Scholastic Monthly Readers • Handwriting Without Tears • Phonics & Whole Language Instruction • Spanish • Interactive Promethean Board Activities • Character Education

Youth

www.SanTanSun.com

CHANDLER UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

and more. All help is appreciated.

—Wendi Olson

Aug. 19: Junior high early release: ACP, Payne, Willis, Hill Aug. 21: Junior high early release: Andersen, Bogle, Santan Aug. 27-28: Elementary early release Sept. 1: Labor Day holiday; no school

Hull Heroes

CTA-Independence Hawks Save the date – Parents of new students are invited to attend CTA’s Spalding Information Night from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 11.

Hawking wares – Uniforms and Spirit Wear are on sale. The PTO has ordered all of its Hawk merchandise and has lots of shirts for sale. Email orders to ctaptovpspiritwear@gmail.com.

Fundraising fun – Watch for information coming home on the Chandler Education Foundation 100 Percent Awareness Campaign. Each family is asked to donate $1 or more to help fund teacher grants and student scholarships.

Help wanted – The CTA Handbook asks each family to donate at least five hours to the school. Many families donate hundreds of hours each year. Families are asked to think about how they can volunteer and make a difference.

Opportunities include PTO, Dad’s Club, Art Masterpiece, Junior Achievement, Site Council, room parent, classroom volunteer, special events such as Family Fun Night, Spring Fling or class parties

Welcome back – Hull is back into school full swing and wishes an extra special welcome to the school’s new preschool families. Hull PTO is now part of Chandler School Boosters, a 501(c) (3) organization, and all cash donations are tax deductible. Families who wish to make a cash donation to Hull PTO should contact the school.

PTO update – Hull PTO has a new website and email address. Keep up to date on all the PTO happenings at www. hullpto.com or email the PTO Executive Board at PTO@HullPTO.com. The first PTO General Meeting discussing this year’s events and approving the annual budget is at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5.

Day care and dinner for kids will be provided. The PTO Ice Cream Social is 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15.

Fundraising fun – Don’t forget to save Coke Rewards, Box Tops, Campbell Soup labels and empty toner cartridges; all these items are collected by the school and turned into extra cash to purchase school supplies and sports equipment.

—Shelly Warren

Tarwater Toros New start – The A+ School of Excellence Tarwater Elementary opened its doors on the first day of school for returning and new students. The Toros are famous for school spirit, community

August 2 – 15, 2014

involvement and progressive student programming, including the Mandarin Dual Language Immersion Program.

Tarwater PTO – The PTO Board welcomes families to Tarwater’s 2014-15 school year. Bookmark its website at www.myteacherpages.com/webpages/ TPTO. Calendar Aug. 7: PTO General Meeting, 7 p.m., Barro’s Aug. 8-15: Read-a-Thon Fundraiser Aug. 26: Fall Picture Day Aug. 27-28: Early release for parentteacher conferences Sept. 9: Tarwater Restaurant Night, 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Peter Piper Pizza —JoAnne Cawley

CTA-Goodman Gators Welcome back – CTA-Goodman Principal Maureen Sniff and PTO Co-Secretaries Andrea Manning and Maureen Hanlon, Treasurer Starr Elsy, Vice President Tammy Messerole and President Mollie Dodd wished everyone a wonderful start to the year at the recent PTO Cheers or Tears Breakfast.

Calendar Aug. 4-6: DIBELS testing, grades K-3 Aug. 8: “Be More Awesome” Character Media Assembly, grades 3-6, 1:30 p.m., Multipurpose Room Aug. 12: PTO meeting, 3 p.m., Media Center Aug. 14: Fire Pal Education, grades 1 and 2 —Kathie Butters

33

STUDENT CHRONICLES Richard Haas of Chandler is a May 2014 graduate from Elmhurst College in Elmhurst, Illinois, with a Bachelor of Science in international business and Spanish.

Amanda Lee of Chandler joined with 18 other youth from around the United States recently to build houses in Tonga for Humanitarian Experience for Youth.

Brittany Lichty of Chandler is on the Spring 2014 honor roll at University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas.

Tyler Miller and Kellie Miller of Chandler are on the Spring 2014 Dean’s List at the University of Montana Western in Dillon, Montana. To qualify, students must achieve a 3.33 grade point average or better.

KIDS LOVE TO LEARN WITH IVY PREP ACADEMY!

Math & English Program Elementary School For Grades 1-6

Special Classes: • Addition & Subtraction • Multiplication & Division • Fractions Class (after testing)

SAT (PSAT) Prep

Stephen D. Hunsaker, D.D.S., M.S.

READING, MATH, WRITING Classes Start Soon—Sign-up Today!

Free Diagnostic Testing for New Students Math / English Class (K-12). Must present coupon to receive offer.

Ivy Prep Academy 480-612-2520

email: Ivyprepacademy1@gmail.com • 590 N. Alma School Rd. #24, Chandler

THE SAME PRICE AS BRACES!

AZ COMFORT

Don’t suffer through Colic or Unexplained Bouts of Chronic Crying! AZ BabyComfort can help.

Call before August 30th, 2014 and you can try us for FREE!

602-549-3146 www.azbabycomfort.com

BRACES AS LOW AS $99! PER MONTH • FREE electronic toothbrush • FREE wi-fi & game center

• No down payment plans • State-of-the-art facility

Call us today to schedule your FREE initial exam!

480-895-2100 Call us Today and Enjoy Peace and Quiet Tonight!

aspenortho.com • 3980 E. Riggs Rd., Suite 1 • Chandler

34

August 2 – 15, 2014

Youth

www.SanTanSun.com