Newsletter Archive
school bulletin for the week of April 30, 2008
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development update
Things have been very busy here in the Development Office over the past week so we have many things to report. First, we are very pleased to announce that we have our first class to reach 100% participation in the Annual Fund! Congratulations to Laura Donkel's EC class! They will soon be getting a Red Velvet Cake from Tweet! And Michelle Feuer, owner of Tweet, is prepared to make 16 more cakes — one for each class who reaches 100%participation! The next in line for a Red Velvet cake looks to be the 9th grade with 75% participation followed closely by the 2nd grade with 64% and Susan Bruck's EC class with 62% participation.
We are so thankful that parents have been hard at work encouraging each other to pledge and give to the Annual Fund. Several of our parents have even gone above and beyond and offered to match gifts from their classes! From the 3rd grade and Laura Donkel's classes, Board of Trustees member Susan Snyder and spouse Michael Gebert have offered to match gifts of up to $50 for a total of $550! Also from Laura Donkel's class Dana and Michael Hegedorn have pledged to match any gift up to $20. Lastly we have another Board of Trustees member and Co-Chair of the Annual Fund Avery Heavenrich has also graciously offered to add $50 to any 4th grade gift.
Last week we conducted a Phonathon and received many pledges and gifts in response. Thank you to all those who donated and thank you also to Board of Trustees members Marcy Walczak, Suzanne Reade, Joe Ferguson, Avery Heavenrich and Mary Spalding and PTO Co-Chair Cynthia Joho for making those calls! Through the course of last week the Development Office received a total of $22,000 in gifts and pledges, putting the Annual Fund total to $182,000! What a super week! That means we are only $100,000 away from reaching our goal.
With only five weeks left until the end of the school year and nine weeks until the 2007-2008 Annual Fund draws to a close on June 30th, we are asking those of you who have not yet given a gift or pledge to the Annual Fund to please do so. Your gift will help the school cover many costs associated with teaching your child. About 10% of the school's revenue comes from gifts, and the bulk of that helps to cover the largest expense of faculty and staff salaries and benefits. Below are charts of the school revenues and expenses.
So whether you give a gift of $10 or $10,000, your gift directly affects the education of your child. Once again, thank you for all who contributed to making this past week so wonderful! Let's keep up the good work and make the next few weeks just as great.
-Kristi Richey, Development Associate
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Mark Your Calendars
All School Meeting
Tuesday, May 6, 2008 • 7:00pm
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may merriment!
We are getting ready to celebrate the annual May Fair, which will take place on Saturday, May 17th from 11:00am-4:00pm, rain or shine (hopefully lots of shine!).
There will be entertainment galore, children’s crafts and games, Cake Walk, May Pole, jump ropes, drumming, dancing, food, vendors and much more! And please remember to sign up for your work shift with your room parents. Thanks!
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crowning event
Please join us for Flower Crown making in the lobby of the auditorium on Friday, May 16th, from right after drop-off through an hour or so after pick-up. It's easy (instruction always on hand) and fun…and truly one of the very special things about the May Fair! All parents and grandparents welcome. Looking forward to seeing you there!
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more mayness
Spring is here, and it is a good time to divide some of your crowded plants or herbs. If you end up with extra from thinning, you could donate them to the May Fair. The 5th grade is organizing a plant sale and plant craft for children. Bring your plant, potted or in containers, and we will take care to get them ready for the Fair. Bring them to the courtyard or, if the courtyard is not open, leave them by the door. Please include a written note saying what kind of plant it is!
And, speaking of containers, Mrs. Holdrege is collecting plastic flower pots and⁄or flats and clean, empty yogurt or pudding containers (any size) to transplant plants and for children’s projects for the May Fair. Please bring them to the Main Office.
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alum on board
The Board of Trustees is pleased to welcome CWS alumna Meghan Zefran, who will begin her role as a Trustee at the May meeting. Meghan attended grade school at CWS, and then returned in her junior year when the high school opened. She graduated CWS-HS in 1996. Meghan has built a solid career in education through teaching, mentoring teachers and developing and assessing curricula. She is currently a Professional Development Team Leader for the Chicago Public Schools and is responsible for developing teacher mentoring programs for over 1500 mentors. In addition to holding a Masters of Jurisprudence and pursuing a Masters of Education, she is a member of numerous professional organizations including the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, the National Center for Culturally Responsive Educational Systems, Rethinking Schools, the National Staff Development Council and Teachers for Social Justice. She has also previously served as a trustee on a local school board.
As our first alumni trustee, Meghan ushers our school into a new era. We have reached the stage in which our early
graduates have, themselves, reached a stage of maturity in their own professional and personal development and are able to stand as a leaders in their communities. Meghan is fine example of that maturity and of the values that her CWS education has helped to instill. She is bright, optimistic and enthusiastic. We warmly welcome her back to our community in her new role.
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around the blocks
Here are the grade school blocks coming up in May:
•1st Grade — Ms. Petersen
Language Arts
•2nd Grade — Mrs. Sullivan
Language Arts: Nature Stories
Dynamic Drawing
•3rd Grade — Ms. Triggiano
Shelters & Housebuilding
•4th Grade — Ms. Desouches
Language Arts: Kalevala
•5th Grade — Ms. Vaca
Science: Botany
•6th Grade — Mrs. Moskowitz
Geometry
•7th Grade — Ms. Szymanski
Science: Chemistry with Mr. Trevillion
Class Trip
•8th Grade — Mr. Husseini
History: 19th & 20th Centuries
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labyrinth thanks
Solvitur Ambulando…it is solved by walking
It was a glorious spring morning. After a brief assembly the 8th and 12th graders got to work transforming sand into a walk-able mandala at the beach,
using their geometry and math skills, with insights gained from the Parzifal myth. Right on schedule the first group arrived to walk the large, beautifully made labyrinth. The high school drummers and I held the heart-beat and everyone sang as the 3rd graders held the hands of their 10th grade partners and walked the purposeful path together. In between the classes many parents and faculty members took the trip. Next came the 11th grade escorting the excited 2nd graders. Then it was the 12th grade’s turn to shepherd the dear 1st graders. During the lunch break people from the community at large came by to take the walk. Discussing their experience of the labyrinth many marveled at how the sound would change when the path was near the water’s edge, or how the voices would blend as the path snaked past an oncoming group, the song intertwining and then fading with the passing turn. It got even warmer as the afternoon sun danced softly on the sand, and the 9th graders came by with the 4th grade. By now the 8th grade was adding to the rhythm on the drums or holding court on the pier, but when the 5th grade arrived, they happily skipped over and another procession began. Early childhood families had picnics in the shade by the rocks, the little ones running around the labyrinth adding pretty rocks to the center where a colorful banner blew in the breeze. As the last group of students (the 6th and 7th grades) took their turn, there was quite a crowd, singing, drumming, doing the hula hoop and playing flutes and shakers, and even a didgeridoo!
Besides being a body prayer, a walking meditation and a potential spiritual experience, another dimension of the labyrinth for schools (according to educational kinesiology reports) is to provide a balancing for the student, leading to improved concentration in the classroom.
Labyrinths have long been used as meditation and prayer tools. It is an archetype with which we can have a direct experience. Walking the labyrinth can be considered an initiation, awakening the Divine knowledge encoded within our DNA; a sacred geometry revealing the presence of a cosmic order connecting us with the deeply rooted urge to honor the Sacredness of All Life. The labyrinth experience is a potent practice of Self-Integration as it encapsulates the spiraling journey in and out of incarnation.
Labyrinths date back to early Egypt, Peru, India, Maya, and many Native American Tribes — The Hopi medicine wheel is a labyrinth. Ancient labyrinths are found in Brazil, Ireland, Italy, Russia, Iceland, North Africa and Southeast Asia. And now we can add Rogers Park, Chicago to the list…
Thanks to everyone who made this Earth Day celebration possible. With this simple yet potent honoring of the Spring impulse, we plant seeds of connection and hope; giving our children and our community the opportunity to experience the
exuberance and blessings of the season.
Earth Day Every Day!
-Hazel Lucchesi-Ginsberg, 2nd Grade Parent
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what's in seasons
Tons of fun for spring! Grandpa's Yo-Yos made from 100% natural materials, made in the USA! Also wooden painting boards, watercolor paper, and Stockmar paint sets and crayons great for long summer days! Wooden stick sets! Princess hats and knights' helmets! Fairy babies! Books, books and more books!And tons of beautiful, colorful wool and wool batting!
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you do the math!
The last problem was:
Problem #11:
The radius of the earth is 6378.1 kilometers. How long would it take to fly around the earth (on the equator) in a hot-air balloon traveling
at 100 mph?
One could approach this problem using the metric system or the US system. Because we're in the US, I think I'll convert 6378.1 km into miles. 1 mile is approximately 1.61 km so 6378.1⁄1.61 = 3962 miles (give or take). Assuming the earth is a sphere, the circumference of the equator is 2∏(3962) or 24894 miles. Thus it would take a hot air balloon traveling at 100 mph about 249 hours or 10 days, 9 hours to circumnavigate the globe.
Alas, no one responded with an answer to this question. Are they too difficult? Let me know. I hope you enjoyed that problem, here is another:
Problem #12:
Here's a question from math club — How many unique 8-letter words (letter combinations, not exclusively dictionary words) could you make out of the word ILLINOIS?
All answers should be submitted to Andrew Starzynski (astarzynski@chicagowaldorf.org) or you can put the answer in my box in the main office.
Good Luck,
-Coach Starzynski
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worm story
After two years of living in the Physics Lab, the worms have moved in to their new outdoor home in the side yard! Many thanks to the 3rd grade for providing shredded newspaper for great bedding. And thanks to the Early Childhood teachers for feeding our new friends. The worm population will grow slowly at first, but we hope to be able to compost more and more material as they multiply into their much larger home.
Worm composting, or vermicomposting, is a complementary method to the more traditional 'compost pile'. Worms, in partnership with a host of beneficial bacteria and other organisms, break down organic matter and turn it into what I like to call 'black gold', worm castings, which are a wonderful soil additive. It's good for the earth, and it's fun!
-Brian Gleichauf
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high school news
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around the blocks
Here is the upcoming high school block rotation:
•9th Grade Main Lesson: Thermal Physics with Mr. Gleichauf
Art Block: Block Printing with Mr. Dozier
•10th Grade Main Lesson: World Religions with Mrs. Huckabay
Art Block: Woodworking
•11th Grade Main Lesson: Chemistry with Mr. Kotz
Art Block: Stonecarving with Mr. Onegin
•12th Grade Main Lesson: The Human Being with Mrs. Vig
Art Block: Drama with Mrs. Everhart
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community announcements
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the private man
Rick Spaulding, former Waldorf High School teacher and Arcturus instructor will be signing his recently released book, Ralph Waldo Emerson: The Infinitude of the Private Man, at Art De Triumph Art Gallery, 2936-38 N. Clark St. on Friday May 9, from 5:30-8:30pm. Please join us. For further information, go to the Wrightwood Press website.
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diaspora & return
New Budapest Orpheum Society will perform a free concert entitled Diaspora and Return: Ceaseless Journeys of Jewish Cabaret on Thursday, May 1st at 6:30pm. At the Quadrangle Club, the University of Chicago, 1155 E 57th St (corner of 57th & University Avenue in Hyde Park). Songs to be performed include works by Nick⁄Kastner⁄ Eisler⁄Tucholsky; F. Hollander; Herman Leopoldi; and Mordechai Gebirtig. Reservations recommended; call 773.702.2550. Hope to see you there!
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take a bow!
Former CWS student (Class of 2016) Fae Kobernik-Pollack makes her acting debut with the North Light Theater Company's showing of The Little Prince. One-time show only, on May 3rd at 11:30am. Tickets at the door (no reservations) are $12 for adults, $8 children. (They never sell out.) North Light is located at 9501 Skokie Boulevard in Skokie (847.673.6300). Congratulations, Fae!
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book & bake sale
The Christian Community is holding a book and bake sale on Saturday, May 3rd, from 10:00am-2:00pm at the church, 2135 W. Wilson. Stop by and browse and enjoy a cup of coffee and a goodie. If you have books to donate, call Richard Dancey at 773.506.0963.
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waldorf summer vacation?
Are you looking to get away for 3 weeks this summer without having to spend a lot on a hotel room, sleep on the hard ground, or fight off pesky mosquitoes? Would you like to spend some of each morning learning and sharing insights concerning child development and ways in which Waldorf education meets different stages of development? Would you enjoy being guided through the Waldorf 1-8 curriculum? Would you like to spend part of each day coming to understand the hows and whys of the Waldorf pedagogy? Would you also be interested in being able to relax and do choral singing, watercolor painting, form drawing, knitting, and pastel drawing with a group of friends all learning together? Have you ever wished that you had gotten the benefit of a Waldorf education or thought that you might make a good Waldorf teacher? If you can say yes to all of these things (or at least most of them) you might want to consider registering for this summer's Great Lakes Teacher Training intensive.
We offer 3-year, part time trainings in three different track options: Early Childhood Teaching, Grades 1-8 Teaching, or a Masters Degree in Education, with an emphasis on Waldorf teaching (This includes a teacher training). All courses are offered through Mount Mary College and the Great Lakes Teacher Training.
This summer is the beginning of our third 3-year cycle, the forming of a new cohort group. You could become a member of this new group (and have a dream Waldorf vacation at the same time). When: July 7 — 25, Where: Tamarack Waldorf School, on Brady Street in the heart of the happening East Side of Milwaukee. For more details contact: Pam Harsch (for Early Childhood) at 262.784.8349 or email Pam Harsch; Michael Imes (Director of GLTT and grades information) at
262.524.2124 or Michael Imes; or Debra Dosemegan (at Mt. Mary College, for information on the masters program andregistration info) at 414.258.4810, ext. 214.
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classifieds
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Need Spring Painting? Is it time for some new color on your walls? I would like to recommend 2 painters: Alexis and Simone Gourguechon. Simone graduated from our high school 7 years ago. Their work is meticulous, well organized and their time estimates are accurate. An added bonus: they are just great people. Contact Alexis at 847.591.7036. Submitted by Dru Muskovin.
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Au Pair Wanted: Suburban Chicago, Illinois Waldorf family seeks au pair, preferably with Waldorf background to help with two kids, 7 and 8. Younger child has special needs and is using innovative therapy and dietary intervention. Training provided. Excellent pay and benefits. Please call Ana at 630.748.9020 or email Robert.
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Too Busy to Cook? Tired of Ordering Out?? Wish you could eat healthful, made-from-scratch meals? Chef Lauren Krause provides customized organic meals designed within your family’s budget and schedule. Remember…you are what you eat, so eat well! For services and rates call 773.474.2513 or email greenchef6@hotmail.com.
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Warm, capable, experienced childcare: Yndri Flannery, wife of Waldorf alumnus and teacher, Tolman Flannery, would love to care for your children in your home or her Evanston home. She has 10 years of experience and can provide excellent references. Yndri and Tolman have two children of their own, ages four and 17 months. Call 773.415.8146 or call Maureen Flannery at 847.864.8146.
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Our Mother Cat Has Four 6-Week Old Kittens that are vet checked, litter-box trained and ready for a new home. They are great with children, affectionate, curious. If you would like one, please call Katherine Rogers at 847.864.5674.
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I Would Love to Care for Your Child! Nice, fun loving and responsible, I would love to care for your child for a few days each week while your work gets done. I am a CWS graduate and experienced with young children. References available. Please call Melinda at 847.201.4341 to discuss availablility (voicemail will announce Innovative Enterprises).
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Free: Semi-vintage dark blue Peg-Perego double stroller. Seats face each other and have detachable sun tops. One wheel needs to be more solidly attached. There have been many miles put on this stroller but it is a solid old 'Cadillac'. Call Susie Poole at 773.989.8483 or email susanpoole2002@msn.com.
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2-Bedroom Apt Available: On Brown-line El, near Lincoln Square. Hardwood floors, renovated kitchen, DR, LR, spacious porch⁄deck⁄yard, parking, laundry. $1000⁄month plus utilities. Available 6⁄1. Call Suzanne Steinrueck at 773.870.1055.
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My Name is Rachael Morkunas and I am a recent Chicago Waldorf high school graduate, I currently attend Warren Wilson College in Asheville, NC. I am coming back to Chicago for the summer and I am looking for babysitting jobs. If you are interested, please don’t hesitate to call. My number is 312.375.3296.
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Need A Summer Nanny⁄Babysitter? Hi, I am a CWHS graduate from 2007 and I am looking to nanny or babysit this summer. I have quite a bit of experience working and spending time with children. I can drive and my schedule is wide open for the summer. If you have any questions or would like a reference please feel free to give me a call! Kiah Shapiro 773.425.2180.
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Four Seasons Shop School Store
New Stock for Spring
Calendars & Note Cards
Books
Uriel Pharmacy Skin Care
Young Living Essential Oils
Toys
and more…
New Extended Hours!!
Open Mondays 8:00am-4:00pm
Tuesdays 8:00am-5:00pm
Wednesdays 8:00-4:00pm
Thursdays 8:00am-4:00pm
Fridays 8:00am-4:00pm
Saturdays 9:00am-1:30pm
Closed Sundays
773.828.8800
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Grandparents' & Special Friends' Day
On this day we open the doors to the special adults in our students' lives:
Grandparents • Aunts & Uncles • Special Friends
Friday • May 2, 2008
8:00-11:15am
Please RSVP to the Front Office 773.465.2662
Please Plan to Arrive at
School a Little Early…
The Traffic Drop-Off Lane Will be Extra Busy
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The CWS Bulletin
You can receive your Bulletin one of the following three ways:
•Send your email address to Ilene Warfield. We will follow
up with a weekly email notification once the Bulletin has been uploaded to the CWS website.
•Go to the CWS website click Current Bulletin.
•You can access past weeks' Bulletins in our Newsletter Archive.
•If you absolutely must have a paper copy, please stop by the Main Office
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BULLETIN SUBMISSIONS
•All submissions must be emailed to
Ilene Warfield and are subject to editing.
•The deadline for submissions is 3:00pm on Thursday for publication in the following week's edition.
•If you would like to receive weekly
email notification of electronic
publication, send your email address
to Ilene Warfield.
•If you have any questions, contact Ilene Warfield or call
773.465.2372.