Friday, December 17, 2010

Birney Players' Performing Aladdin this year!

Announcing the 2011 Birney Players’ Theatrical Production of
Disney’s
ALADDIN
a Dual Language Version

Initial Participation is open to
3rd - 5th Grade Students from Birney Elementary
(If numbers allow it, will try to open the show to grades 1 and 2 as well.)

Free Song Learning Sessions and Audition Preparation:
January 20 - March 24, 2011
Thursday afternoons from 4:30 - 6 pm

Auditions: will be held the last week of March. Exact days TBA. Participation in the FREE song learning sessions will help students to obtain a role in the show but does NOT guarantee any role. There are major singing and speaking roles and a large number of ensemble singing and dancing roles. The script is in both English and Spanish. Many characters speak and sing both. We will also need students to help with backstage jobs. This should be a lot of fun and a good challenge for an IB school.

Once actors have been given a part in the show, they will receive scripts and song preparation materials to take home and study during Spring Break. Students will also be asked to officially register for the show and pay a fee (approximately $60) for participation. there will be a number of partial scholarships available. Students will not be able to participate without a registration form, so keep your eyes open for it ins late March.

After Spring Break rehearsals will be held 2-3 days a week until the show is performed for 2-3 nights in the early part of July. It will be extremely important that students be able to attend these rehearsals for the full time, so please look closely at the specific rehearsal and performance dates and times on the calendar that will be available closer to audition time in order to decide if this is a project that your child can do. Students who cannot consistently attend will be unable to continue in the show. Students who are disruptive during the song preparation sessions or the rehearsal times despite warnings will also be asked to leave.

If you have any question about the show or want to ask more about how to participate as an actor, stage crew member, or parent volunteer, please contact Katrina Peterson (Maddie Humphrey’s mom) at 619-316-2342 or lechatgris@cox.net.

Thursday, December 16, 2010

ICES Winter Program Things to Remember

1. ICES opens at 6:30 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m.. The doors open at 6:30 sharp and everyone must be off campus by 6 pm.

2. Lunch will not be provided. You must provide a packed lunch for your child each day.

3. The days are long, so be sure to provide your child with extra snacks and water.

4. If someon other than yourself is picking up your child, please notify Ryan Vincent as to who they are and make sure that they have their I.D. to present at time of pick up.

5. If your student is kindergarten, please sent them each day with an extra set of undergarments and bottoms. (Just in case, you can never be too sure)

6. Please do not allow your child to bring cell phones, IPods, gaming devises, toys, etc. Students may bring books or movies that they are interested in sharing with the group.

Sample Activities: Garden/Drama; Arts & Crafts; C. Lab/Library; Music/Dance; Sport Activity; Movie; Walking Field Trips

If you have any questions or concerns, please call Ryan at 619-540-2287.

.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Birney Sponsorship Information.

Bee a Sponsor!






If you, your business or anyone you know, would like to help out Birney Elementary and the PTA by being a sponsor, here is a list of opportunities and ways you can help.

Just click here to download a pdf. with all the sponsoring opportunities listed.
If you are interested in approaching local merchants on Birney's behalf, download the following two attachments as well. One is a sample letter to merchants and one is a sample thank you letter that you can send after receiving a donation.

Donation Letter as docx. file
Donation letter as doc. file
Donation Letter as pdf file

Thank You Letter as docx. file
Thank You letter as doc. file
Thank You Letter as pdf file

Every little bit helps and we truly do appreciate your support and help.

Thanks.
PTA Birney

What to do for Winter Break

ICES has a Winter Break Program at Birney.

Week 1: 12/27-12/29

Week 2: 1/3-1/7

Week 3: 1/10-1/14


Program Time: 9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Early drop off: 6:30 am - 9 am
Late pick up: 3:30 pm - 6 pm

For more details, download the flier and registration form here or call Ryan Vincent at 619-540-2287

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

YAY we're #1


Birney Attendance #1 in the District for November.

Well Done!

Monday, December 6, 2010

Family Holiday Craft Night

Friday December 10, 4:30 pm- 7pm
(after family friday) in the Birney auditorium
Free admission.


All craft instructions and supplies provided.
All ages welcome.
Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Pizza slice and a soda available $2
(pizza only; $1.50)

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Comité de habla hispana del padre

Birney Parents


Come form part of the Spanish Speaking Parent Committee.

The Birney PTA is searching for Parents who would like to help organize cultural events and activities for Birney Students.


We will have coffee and sweet bread. Younger children are welcomed.


First Meeting

Tuesday December 7, 2010

9:15am

Room # 1 (Teachers Lounge)

Contact: Susie Villareal

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------


Padres de Familia


Formen parte del Nuevo comité de Padres En Español

El PTA de Birney busca a Padres que quieran ayudar a organizar eventos y actividades culturales para los alumnos de Birney.


Habrá Cafecito y pan dulce, venga a convivir y compartir ideas. Hijos menores bienvenidos.


Primer Junta

Martes 7 de Diciembre

9:15 am

Salón # 1

Contacto: Bianca Quinonez cell 408.209.2234

San Diego Science Alliance





You are invited to bring a team to find out how to host a Family Science Event for your school community, get all the tools you need for success and produce an event your community will talk about over and over again!

Once you attend the workshop at the San Diego County Office of Education you be a part of the Family Science Network to find out about guest speakers, check out event kits (K-5 or 6-8) and receive the Family Science Book in English or Spanish.

Family Science Workshop for K-8
Wednesday December 8, 4-7
SDCOE, Room 301


Registration Fee $40
Register on line at http://sdcoe.k12oms.org/1022-39992
Questions? Call Zeret Lara or Nancy Taylor at 858.292.3789

Monday, November 29, 2010

IB Learner Focus for December

In December, we will ask "How have you grown as an IB learner?"

In December, we will be featuring 'balanced', 'inquisitive' and 'risk-taker'

The expectation for classrooms is that you are using and reflecting on all the aspects of the learner profile all year long, and you certainly do not need to follow a schedule. However, in the Buzz, in our after-school programs, at specials and our weekly assembly, we will try to focus on these. Look for a column from student journalists about these traits every week in the Buzz.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Toyland Parade - Join the Fun!

Birney Elementary
will be participating in this year’s
47th Annual North Park Toyland Parade & Holiday Fair.
On Saturday, December 4th, 2010, starting at 11 a.m.

We will be marching in the parade and hosting a crafts booth. The Holiday Fair will continue until 2 pm with plenty of fun activities and crafts. A fun event for the whole family.

We will be meeting at the event (details to come soon), wearing our Birney Bee T-shirt. If you do not have a T-shirt, one will be loaned to you. We will be handing out treats and enjoying this wonderful holiday season kick-off.

If you are interested in participating in this event, please email us at ptabirney@yahoo.com or sign up in the school office.


Click here for more information about the North Park Toyland Parade & Holiday Fair
.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Thursday is Veteran's Day. NO SCHOOL

Thursday, Nov. 11th is Veteran's Day.
There will be a parade honoring our veteran's beginning at 11:00 am. For more information on the Veteran's Day Parade, visit the website www.sdvetparade.org

REMINDER: There is no school on Thursday. But there is school on Friday. There is also Movie Night, showing the Karate Kid 2010. Movie begins at 6:30 sharp.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Birney Garden Needs Your Help!


The Garden Committee has tons of new plants that need to get in the ground, so will need help next Saturday, November 20, from 8:30 - 12:30.

Adults and Children are welcome.

Come get grubby!

Email Mindy if you can attend, or if you're interested in helping with the garden but can't make Saturday's planting.


Mindy's email is mindysue@igc.org.

Today is the last day to register!

Loews Coronado Bay Resort Invites You to
Build a Better Lunchbox

in support of Alice Birney Elementary School’s Kindergarten Class
Enjoy a fun, tasty and nutritious afternoon featuring:
• Fun food stations
• Creative and delicious ways to use fruits and veggies
• Hands-on demonstrations by our chefs
• Complimentary Loews Loves Kids
lunch bags filled with fun surprises!

Saturday, November 13, from 11 am to 1 pm Loews Coronado Bay Resort
4000 Loews Coronado Bay Road, Coronado, CA 92118
$10 for adults, free for children

All monies raised will be used to fund much-needed playground equipment,
including a sand set, basketball hoop, bouncy balls, hula hoops, and jump ropes,
for the kindergarten students of Alice Birney Elementary School.

To RSVP, please contact Anne Stephany at 619-424-4416 or
astephany@loewshotels.com by November 9.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Help Roosevelt and Birney Student with their Walk for Diabetes

Lets help out when we can. Roosevelt students are walking to Stop Diabetes.
below is a note from their team leader.

OR
YOU CAN HELP OUT VINCENT VILLAREAL who is a Birney Student by donating here.


Hello Roosevelt families and staff!

I am the IB Coordinator for Roosevelt Middle School and I am writing to ask you to join the movement to Stop Diabetes by helping Roosevelt raise money for the American Diabetes Association.

Our fourth annual Schoolwalk for Diabetes will run on Monday, November 8th at 9:30. We've asked students to collect at least $10 each to participate. In addition to the paper envelopes students have received through PE, you can contribute online using the link to my Schoolwalk PERSONAL page below. Look for the "Join" link to get started.

Feel free to make your contribution or an additional donation through this system. You can also forward this to friends and family as we go into the last weekend before this amazing event. By the way, parents are also welcome to participate in the walk along with their children!

This money will be helpful to all people with diabetes. Did you know that almost 24 million people have diabetes and many of them don't even know that they have it?

Every dollar our team raises will be used to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.

Click here to visit my personal page.

Click here to view the team page for Roosevelt Middle School
.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Friday is Family Friday and Jump for Heart

Don't miss out on this fun 'all school" event. The kids will be jumping to raise money for the American Heart Association. So come out, turn a rope and make a donation.

Family Friday starts at 2:30 in the Auditorium.


This Family Friday is also the kickoff as well as the start of our fundraiser. Coach Lord is hosting the Jump rope 4 Heart. We are looking for volunteers for concessions, to twirl rope and to break down concessions. If you are looking for a way to fulfill your volunteer hours, we could REALLY use your help. Please respond with a two-hour block of time from 1:30pm-4:30pm and I can put you in the schedule. If you can stay longer it would of course be very helpful.

Contact us at ptabirney@yahoo.com.

Thanks


.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT - Karate Kid 2010

Sponsored by Birney PTA
Friday, Nov. 12 at 6:30 pm - SHARP!

Admission is free

Popcorn and Lemonade are provided
all other concessions available for purchase.

Movie starts at 6:30pm.
Bring your cushions or blankets to sit on, chairs will be available.

Parents must stay with children.

TONIGHT IS FAMILY DINNER NIGHT


Family Dinner Night at Pizza Gourmet Express
Enjoy a nice dinner out and help support the Birney PTA assembly programs at the same time.
Tuesday, Nov. 2
11 am - 9 pm

4615 Park Boulevard • San Diego, CA 92116
(619) 546-7430

Come enjoy a fresh selection of Pizzas prepared to your specifications right before your eyes. Enjoy them baked in our high speed pizza ovens, or take and bake at home. If you are having meetings at work order take out. Teachers, get a group order together and enjoy some good food at lunchtime. Birney Elementary will get 25% of all food purchases. Discount does not apply to deliveries.

Let’s enjoy some good food and support field
trips and assemblies for our Birney students.

Don't forget you can order it ahead of time and pick it up or even order it not cooked and cook it up later.

If you need a flier, download one here!

Monday, November 1, 2010

It is Saturday School.


This Saturday is Saturday School, a chance to make up that one absence that is preventing you having perfect attendance.

Priority for Saturday School goes to families who have just ONE absence to clear.
Then 4 tardies or less, and then after that anyone who wants to clear an absence.

Students will be given applications tomorrow and an ed-connect today.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

IB learner focus for November

In November, the IB learner focus we will be featuring 'caring and 'open-minded'.

The expectation for classrooms is that you are using and reflecting on all the aspects of the learner profile all year long. However, in the Buzz, in our after-school programs, at specials and our weekly assembly, we will try to focus on these. Look for a column from student journalists about these traits every week in the Buzz.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Now we have more items then ever.


For anyone interested in a Birney Bee Spirit item. We have mugs, hats, buttons and various items that have the Birney Bee Spirit Logo on them. These are great gift ideas for Teachers or for students or family members interested in showing school pride.

A portion of each sale made on CafePress goes to Birney PTA.

Check it out at CafePress_Birney Store.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Help with Tree Planting Today at 1pm

Our Trees will be here today.

Any available daytime garden types who are willing to lend a hand or two should show up at Birney tomorrow early afternoon. Mindy will need help digging the holes for the 15 fabulous trees we are receiving (oro blanco grapefruit, meyer lemon, blood orange, fuji apple, fig, fuyu persimmon, hiyacha persimmon, pomegranate...and some few more. The planting and program will take place at 1p. There could be some activity to get ready before hand. Additional shovels and rakes (garden rake NOT leaf rake) could be helpful... Please show up and pass this message along to anyone else you think might be interested and available to help out. Thanks!

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Have you heard the Buzz about Circle Buzz?


CircleBuzz.com is Giving $1000s to Local Schools!
Signing up for CircleBuzz is quick, easy and free! Plus, the parent organization at your school will earn $1 for each new subscriber. And, depending on the number of sign-ups per school, bonus dollars will be awarded which can nearly double the donation!

> 25 = $25 bonus, > 50 = $50 bonus, > 100 = $100 bonus, > 200 = $200 bonus

Get ready to make easy money for your school - as well as have access to exclusive local deals - especially created for families! More sign-ups means MORE $$ for your school...so spread the word!

It's Easy, just sign up here.

.

Monday, October 18, 2010

Family Dinner Night - Nov. 2

Family Dinner Night at Pizza Gourmet Express

Enjoy a nice dinner out and help support the Birney PTA assembly programs at the same time.

Tuesday, Nov. 2
11 am - 9 pm

4615 Park Boulevard • San Diego, CA 92116
(619) 546-7430

Come enjoy a fresh selection of Pizzas prepared to your specifications right before your eyes. Enjoy them baked in our high speed pizza ovens, or take and bake at home. If you are having meetings at work order take out. Teachers, get a group order together and enjoy some good food at lunchtime. Birney Elementary will get 25% of all food purchases. Discount does not apply to deliveries.

Let’s enjoy some good food and support field
trips and assemblies for our Birney students.

Don't forget you can order it ahead of time and pick it up or even order it not cooked and cook it up later.

If you need a flier, download one here!

Trunk-or-Treat at Birney

Sunday, Oct. 31
4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Picture this:
a huge parking lot with the back ends of cars, vans and trucks decorated in a variety of fun themes, complete with games and treats. Families plan their own theme for their vehicle. The parking lot is roped off, and kids in costume are free to skip or stroll from place to place safely.

If you're interested in participating by decorating your car and passing out treats, email the PTA (ptabirney@yahoo.com) or call Samantha at 619-584-1802 and we will save a space for you.

For the children's safety, all cars must be parked and ready to go by 3:45 p.m. when we will close off the parking lot, and must stay parked until 5:45 p.m.

For some examples of what people do to decorate for Trunk-or-Treat visit, http://trunkortreat.homestead.com

Friday, October 15, 2010

The Party is Still On...

It may be too overcast for a Star Party, but not for Spaghetti, and not for a Movie Night...
Spaghetti Dinner 6 - 7:30pm
$6 Adults / $3 Children


Includes: Spaghetti w/ Marinara, Meatballs, Salad, Garlic Bread and Milk or Lemonade

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
Movie will start at 7pm
Free Popcorn and Lemonade

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Protect ALL Youth Rally

Protect ALL Youth.
San Diegans for Safe Schools
Rally & Vigil

Sunday, October 17, 2010
6:00 – 7:00 pm


San Diego Unified School District - Eugene Brucker Education Center Lawn
4100 Normal Street, San Diego, CA 92103

A coalition of concerned parents, pastors, students, educators, elected and appointed officials, law enforcement officers and community organizations will come together to mourn the loss of the 11 LGBT youth who’ve taken their lives in recent weeks as a result of school-based bullying, and to dedicate themselves to ensuring that our San Diego schools offer a safe, supportive learning environment for ALL students.
.

PROP J RALLY!

Quarterly LGBT Community Coalition Breakfast
Prop J and Public Schools, Friday, Oct. 15


Are you the parent of a current or prospective student at San Diego Unified? Concerned about the state of education at San Diego public schools?

On Tuesday, Nov. 2, voters will weigh in on Prop J – a temporary annual parcel tax that proponents say would prevent teacher layoffs, fund job and college preparation, and preserve small class sizes. Opponents contend that the measure does not specify how revenues must be spent. Learn more during our Quarterly LGBT Community Coalition Breakfast on Friday, October 15 at 7:30 am.

Lani Lutar, President and CEO of the San Diego County Taxpayers Association and Richard Barrera, President of the San Diego Unified School District Board of Education, will provide opposing and supporting arguments for the measure. The forum will take place at the San Diego LGBT Community Center (3909 Centre Street). A full breakfast is available for a $10 donation; coffee and tea are complimentary. RSVPs are not required.

We hope you will join us!

Best wishes,
Carlos Marquez
Director of Community Programs & Public Affairs
The San Diego LGBT Community Center
v - 619 . 692 . 2077 . 103 | m - 619 . 651 . 0797 | f - 619 . 260 . 3093
www.thecentersd.org

.

Help Support the Kindergarten Class

Loews Coronado Bay Resort Invites You to
Build a Better Lunchbox

in support of Alice Birney Elementary School’s Kindergarten Class
Enjoy a fun, tasty and nutritious afternoon featuring:
• Fun food stations
• Creative and delicious ways to use fruits and veggies
• Hands-on demonstrations by our chefs
• Complimentary Loews Loves Kids
lunch bags filled with fun surprises!

Saturday, November 13, from 11 am to 1 pm Loews Coronado Bay Resort
4000 Loews Coronado Bay Road, Coronado, CA 92118
$10 for adults, free for children

All monies raised will be used to fund much-needed playground equipment,
including a sand set, basketball hoop, bouncy balls, hula hoops, and jump ropes,
for the kindergarten students of Alice Birney Elementary School.

To RSVP, please contact Anne Stephany at 619-424-4416 or
astephany@loewshotels.com by November 9.

.

Monday, October 11, 2010

Hey Birney Gardeners!

I am writing because we have an offer of fruit trees from the Fruit Tree Planting Foundation (Kashi — Fruitabu snacks).

The event is October 21st at 1pm. They will come and do a short curriculum piece. They want to do this with 2nd and possibly 1st grade classes. They need up to 20-25 parent volunteers to help pull this off.

As parents we will be digging holes, planting and mulching during the presentation. As you know the soil is VERY clay, so this could be a pretty big job. I am going to do a test dig today. The main plantings will be in the area next to the fence of the joint use field. I am exploring if we can expand into other areas on campus, including next to the preschool and near the portables. Standby as I confirm with Larry the landscaping lead for our school if we can have "permission" for this expansion.

Please let me know if you will be able to make this time. Also let me know if there are any parents you can think of who might be available for this I want to cast a big net. Because it will undoubtedly be fun, I hope it can galvanize efforts and we can throw our own event to plant the library literacy herb garden!

Best, Mindy
email me at: mindysue@igc.org

.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Pizza Gourmet Express - Tuesday Nov. 2

Family Dinner Night at Pizza Gourmet Express

Enjoy a nice dinner out and help support the Birney PTA assembly programs at the same time.

Tuesday, Nov. 2
11 am - 9 pm

4615 Park Boulevard • San Diego, CA 92116
(619) 546-7430

Come enjoy a fresh selection of Pizzas prepared to your specifications right before your eyes. Enjoy them baked in our high speed pizza ovens, or take and bake at home. If you are having meetings at work order take out. Teachers, get a group order together and enjoy some good food at lunchtime. Birney Elementary will get 25% of all food purchases. Discount does not apply to deliveries.

Let’s enjoy some good food and support field
trips and assemblies for our Birney students.

Don't forget you can order it ahead of time and pick it up or even order it not cooked and cook it up later.

If you need a flier, download one here!

.

Star Party and Spaghetti Dinner!

Join us for our
5th Annual Star Gazing Party and Spaghetti Dinner!
The San Diego Astronomy Association will be on our playground
Thursday, October 15 from 6:30-8:30 pm.

Spaghetti Dinner from 6 - 7:30 pm
Adults $6 and Children $3


Come share in this FREE Star Party. Everyone is welcome.
Children MUST be with an adult at all times.
If you have a telescope at home, bring it!
Download a FREE Spaghetti Dinner Coupon Here. Buy one child's dinner and get one child's dinner FREE.

The PTA provides free popcorn, lemonade, and glow necklaces for each participant.

.

Monday, September 20, 2010

Friday is Birney Family Garden Day.

Please join us on Friday, Sept. 24 after school to meet about all the exciting things in store for the garden. Including clean up, garden days and garden club. This is a great opportunity to volunteer and help out in the fresh air.

Friday, September 17, 2010

Birney's FIRST Family Dinner Night Out!


Enjoy a nice dinner out and help support the Birney PTA assembly programs at the same time.


The Station Tavern & Burgers
Tuesday, Sept. 28 • 4 - 9 pm
2204 Fern St • San Diego, CA 92104
(619) 255-0657

Come enjoy a fresh selection of burgers.
Hamburgers, turkey burgers, black bean burgers and veggie burgers; grilled cheese and hot dogs for the kids; and a variety of fries.

Birney Elementary will get 20% of all food purchases.
Dine-in or pick up.

Let’s enjoy some good food and support field
trips and assemblies for our Birney students.


You must bring in the flier when you order. Extra fliers will be in the school office or you can download it here.

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Become a Member of the PTA

Cool fun...
at our
Family Movie Nights.

Stay cool...
join us for our
Family Dinner Nights.

Be Cool...
at our annual
Passport to Adventure.

None of these activities would be achievable without the support and efforts of Birney PTA. Therefore, as the new school year begins, we need your help in making this year the coolest in the eyes of the children who attend Birney.

With today’s budget crisis and depressed economy we need to show our support more than ever for our children and their school.

We encourage you, your spouse, children and extended family members to become PTA members. Membership dues are $5 per person ($25 for business members). This amount only covers what is required by the 9th district PTA, so any additional financial support you can provide is ALWAYS appreciated. All funds raised throughout the year by the PTA help fund many of the programs and assemblies that your children enjoy.

You will receive membership forms in this weeks BUZZ or you can download it here. Fill it out, include your check and drop it in the PTA box or give it to your child's teacher.

The PTA meetings will be the second Monday of each month at 6 pm in the auditorium. Child care will be provided. This is a great way to get involved in your child's school, as well as, meet new parents and have some fun.

Click here to download the membership form. (There are both Spanish and English versions included in the pdf) Parents, grand-parents, neighbors and friends can all be a member. It all benefits our kids in the end.

Thanks so much for supporting the PTA.

.

Help our school win a $20K technology upgrade

Help our school win a $20K technology upgrade
My Coke Rewards is giving one lucky school $20,000 towards a technology upgrade for items like cameras, computers, tvs, and more from Best Buy®. Our school can earn one entry into the sweepstakes for every 5 My Coke Rewards points donated to our school from July 28 - September 30, 2010.

Itʼs easy to donate:
1.
Purchase your favorite Coca-Cola products to get codes (theyʼre on hundreds of different packages, in a variety of flavors and sizes.)
2. Go to mycokerewards.com (register if you arenʼt a member).
3. Enter codes to collect points – choose “Donate to Your School” from the six ways to spend points.
4. Find our school by Zip Code. When our schoolʼs page comes up, enter the amount of points youʼd like to give, then click “Donate.”
Go to mycokerewards.com/schools today to donate your points and help make great things happen for our school this year.

And... If you don't want to take the time to put in the codes, if you drop them in the PTA box, we will do them for you. Rewards can be found on bottle caps, 12 pack and case labels inside.

No purchase necessary for sweepstakes. See rules for full details. Registered schools will earn 1 entry for every 5 points donated by My Coke Rewards members. My Coke Rewards is open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. (and DC) age 13 and over. Visit mycokerewards.com for details and a full list of participating products. © 2010 The Coca-Cola Company

Birney Rocks!

What a great school!
See for yourself at www.cde.ca.gov.
Birney scored 850 points on the API.
Met ALL targets. And all while providing a kid-friendly, engaging curriculum, including art, Spanish, and so on.
We have the BEST TEACHERS and the greatest families!
We made the most growth we have EVER made.

Amanda

escrip Back-To-School!


If you shop at Von’s, please consider signing up for the eScript program and choosing Birney. eScrip is currently running their 10% Back to School program. Even if you haven’t signed up yet, you can bring in your receipts or go to the eScrip website and Birney will receive credit for your shopping trip. Look at the bottom of your receipt for details.

Visit www.escrip.com to register so Birney will benefit all year long.

Order Your Birney Sweatshirts & More!


For anyone interested in a Birney Bee Spirit item. We have mugs, hats, buttons and various items that have the Birney Bee Spirit Logo on them. These are great gift ideas for Teachers or for students or family members interested in showing school pride.

Check it out at Birney Bees.

Monday, July 19, 2010

HELP HELP and MORE HELP

This request forwarded from Katrina regarding Willy Wonka Stage:
I am in need of help when it comes to taking down the Willy Wonka Stage. I would have done it last week, but the drama teacher asked me to leave it up for all the special grade level performances, which don't end until Monday. But I am now being asked to remove not only the stage (platforms, walls, props, etc.) but also all my lighting and sound equipment for the 5th grade promotions. I'm not sure if we can work at all during the school day on Monday afternoon or Tuesday, so my best guess is that I will need help to take apart, remove, and load stuff into my truck after 3:30 on Tuesday and Wednesday. Please email me back if you think you are available. That way I'll know how many power drills to try and supply, especially on Monday afternoon.

Please contact Katrina if and when you are able to help at lechatgris@cox.net

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Before/After School Care for 2010-2011 School Year

ICES at Birney
We have exciting options for anyone interested in before or after school care for your students. ICES is a pay for care program that will be offered in conjunction with PrimeTime. It will offer homework assistance, tutoring and a wide range of high-quality academic and recreational activities that are con-ducted in a fun, safe and stimulating educational environment.

Some of the programs offered include:
• Foreign Languages
• Environmental Projects
• Enrichment Activities
• Music Theory
• Art Appreciation
• Physical Education
And More!

Birney ICES after-school program begins on September 7, 2010 and runs (Monday through Friday) in the 2010-2011 academic school year. Before school session from 7:00 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. and afterschool session from 3:35 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. (Wednesdays 1:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.).
(Reservations are highly encouraged)

If you are interested in this program, click here to download more information and the registration form.

DON'T Forget Family Dinner Night Tonight.


Family Dinner Night at Pizza Gourmet Express

Enjoy a nice dinner out and help support the Birney PTA assembly programs at the same time.

Wednesday, July 14
11 am - 9 pm

4615 Park Boulevard • San Diego, CA 92116
(619) 546-7430

Come enjoy a fresh selection of Pizzas prepared to your specifications right before your eyes. Enjoy them baked in our high speed pizza ovens, or take and bake at home. If you are having meetings at work order take out. Teachers, get a group order together and enjoy some good food at lunchtime. Birney Elementary will get 25% of all food purchases. Discount does not apply to deliveries.

Let’s enjoy some good food and support field
trips and assemblies for our Birney students.

Don't forget you can order it ahead of time and pick it up or even order it not cooked and cook it up later.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Are you UP for a movie?

Bring the whole family and enjoy a night of fun.

UP

Sponsored by the Birney PTA
Friday, July 16 - 7 pm

Admission is FREE


Popcorn and Lemonade are free.
All other concessions available for purchase.

Movie starts at 7:15pm.

Bring your cushions or blankets to sit on, chairs will be available. Parents must stay with children.

.

Willy Wonka Junior This Thursday & Friday ONLY!

Words and Music by
Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley

Adapted for Stage by
Leslie Bricusse and
Timothy A. McDonald


Based on the Book
Charlie and The Chocolate Factory
by Roald Dahl

Thursday, July 8 and Friday July 9
6:30 PM in the Birney Auditorium

Tickets: $5.00 for Adults and $3.00 for children

All proceeds benefit the Birney PTA and Drama Program


This performance is produced with the permission of Music Theatre International.
.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Thanks

Special Thanks to the Passport to Adventure 2010 supporters

- Poway 4-H - Goat milking demonstration

- Whole Foods Hillcrest - Chocolate Bars

- Ralph's Hillcrest - $20 gift card (used for the chocolate for the Swiss booth)
-
Savory Deli (4661 Park Boulevard): for their donation of Paella and Gazpacho food donation for Spain booth. And for manning their food at the table.

- San Diego Stage and Lighting for the discount donation of the performing stage

- Juanita Franco School of Dance

- Bill Helm at the Taoist Sanctuary for performing Tai Chi

- Joe Botkin for the use of warming pans in the China and Ghana booths

- James Tuckwell and Pizza Gourmet Express for the donation of time and pizza

- Michelle and Tracie Livermore for the donation of everything in their attic

- Nuffer Smith Tucker for the donation of various items for raffle baskets and for the use of their designer for all printed materials

- AND ALL THE VOLUNTEERS… To many to list, but you know who you are.


Silent Auction Donations


- Joe Rohret for his donation of four beautiful hand made ceramic mugs.

- Pacific College of Oriental Medicine for donation of 8 treatments in their student clinic

- Mueller College for the donation of two massages treatments in their clinic

- Pizza Gourmet Express: $25 gift certificate

- Dennis Gage for donation of beautiful glassware and wine

- Janet Williams for the donation of two copies of her book You don’t ask, you don’t get

- Kai Lombard for the Bill Walton basketball and autographs
- Jose Garcia at HairCut Boulevard for his donation of a Highlighting

- Konnie Dadmun, for the donation of 4 tickets to the Natural History Museum and the panda wine holder
- Amy Parrott, Development Department San Diego Zoo
for the donation of 4 tickets to both the Zoo and the Wild Animal Park.
- Chris Nelson for his donation of a Blueman Group pack including VIP tickets, meet and greet and Blueman souvenirs
- Brett Bean for the donation of his limited edition print “Bots”

- Bill & Rosemary Sleeman for their donation of a ½ day Spa package at Holistic Hands

- Reed Cowan for his donation of the Directors Cut version of 8: The Mormon Proposition

- Jenna Raskin for her donation of a Giclee print from her “HEART” series.

- James Stone for the donation of his Hands on Glass Workshop

- Jackie Simpson for the donation of a photography session with finished photos on CD.

- Kelly Shaw for various items used in the Silent Auction including: massage chair, beer, one-hour massage, hair cut and dinner coupons

- Tracie Livermore for her donation of a one-hour massage

- Laurel Holloway for her donation of an acupuncture treatment.

- Rick VanNoy and the La Jolla Playhouse for their donation of a family pack of tickets to a performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream

- Siri Johansson for her donation of a beautiful puff heart necklace
- Mark Paskowitz for his donation of professional coaching services.

- SDSU Women’s basketball team for their donation of a signed basketball and 5 t-shirts

- Karen Donovan for donation of the Surf pack with lessons at the Surf School in Pacific Beach, beach bag with towels and sunscreen

- Dan Gruber at Vox Marketing for his donation of Copywriting services for a press release or Web site home page.


Special Thanks to


- Amanda Hammond-Williams for the donation of front row seats to awards ceremonies, taking the time to do dinner with the principal and her parking space

- Karen Donovan for her time to take kids for a movie outing

- Jessica Touw for her time to take kids for a movie outing

-
Many Pirouzan for her time to take kids for a movie outing and ice cream

-
Mr. Peterson for the cookie baking party

- Birney Elementary Players for the donation of front row seats for both nights of their performance of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.

And

- The PTA for all the miscellaneous items purchased to flush out the gift packages.


If I have missed anyone, I apologize and will be happy to include them if you send me their information to ptabirney@yahoo.com


Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Book Fair at Birney


The Scholastic Book Fair opens tomorrow in the Library. Hours of operation are:

Wednesday 11:00am - 4:00pm

Thursday 8:45am - 4:00pm Parent Event 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Friday 8:45am - 4:00pm

Monday 11:00 - 6:00pm


Jane could really use some additional help. Please contact her at kclarke@sandi.net or 6/497-3500 if you are available to help out or have any questions.

Birney Bee YEARBOOKS!


Yearbook! Yearbook! I need a YEARBOOK!
As you probably know, the first edition of the Birney Yearbook has arrived and it looks beautiful. Thanks to Jodi, Tiffany, and all involved. If you didn't get a chance to order one, there is still time to get one. Copies are available for purchase in the front office, and if there are any left, will also be available at the next Family Friday, July 2.

Once they're gone, they're gone, so if you are interested, pick one up ASAP.

.

Birney Elementary Players Present...

Words and Music by
Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley

Adapted for Stage by
Leslie Bricusse and
Timothy A. McDonald


Based on the Book
Charlie and The Chocolate Factory
by Roald Dahl

Thursday, July 8 and Friday July 9
6:30 PM in the Birney Auditorium

Tickets: $5.00 for Adults and $3.00 for children
(Presale ticket form are available by clicking here)
Presale Tickets are on a first come first serve basis. Order your tickets early. Tickets must be turned in To the PTA or your teacher before July 5th.

All proceeds benefit the Birney PTA and Drama Program


This performance is produced with the permission of Music Theatre International.
.

Mosaic Installation Project at Birney

Calling all Birney Families and students.

Help us with the big installation of the mosaic project on our school building.


When
: Saturday, July 10 and Sunday, July 11
Times
: 9am to 6pm (in 3 hour shifts)
What to bring
: clothes that you aren’t afraid to get messy, and any artifacts you’d like to add to the wall (must be made of ceramic, glass, rock, or metal).


Please sign up for a 3 hour shift to help with this project. Be a part of Birney history that will remain on its walls for a long long time. We appreciate your help!


Click here to download the sign up form and return to your child's teacher or the office by Friday, June 25.

Monday, June 21, 2010

Spirit Week

Hey Bees!

It's time to celebrate the end of testing and show your Birney Spirit! Here's what Student Council has planned for your fun:

Monday, June 21 - Mis-Matched Day Stripes with flowers, plaids with paisley, the scarier the better. Dress to offend.

Tuesday, June 22 - Sports Day Wear your favorite jersey or sport shirt.

Wednesday, June 23 - PJ Day Come in your best jammies.

Thursday, June 24 - Crazy Hair Day A good use for those Aztec wigs. Leave the colored hairsprays at home, please.

Friday, June 25 - Aloha Friday Island style is the word of the day - think palm trees, waves, sand and surf.

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Silent Auction at the Passport to Adventure

This Saturday, June 19 • 11 am - 2 pm
Bring your checkbooks, bring your cash to score great deals on great prizes and help out the Birney in the process. Below is a list of some of the items you will find at the auction. More are being added everyday.
1. VIP Tickets and meet-and-greet with the Blueman Group in Las Vegas, NV (air and accomodations NOT included).
2. Jenna Raskin giclee print from her HEART series.
3. Glassblowing class
4. Siri Johansson Swarovski Puff Heart necklace with sterling silver chain
5. Professional Coach 4u certificate for $350 training with Mark Paskowitz
6. Pampered Chef Gift certificate, with bakeware and Food TV cookbook
7. “Dinner and a Movie” - Restaurant.com certificate and the Directors Cut version of the movie “8: The Mormon Proposition”
8. Family 4 pack of tickets for the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park
9. Book club: 2 copies of the book “You don’t ask, you don’t get” by local San Diego Author Janet Williams
10. Family Photography session by Jackie Simpson 2 hour sitting on location with CD of retouched images included.
11. Vox Marketing Communications copywriting services for a press release or Web site home page
12. Brett Bean limited edition print of his new comic characters. Brett was featured at
ComicCon
13. Massage and acupuncture package by Tracie Livermore and Laurel Holloway
14. Pacific College of Oriental Medicine acupuncture treatments
15. Mueller College of Holistic Studies massage treatments
16. 1 hour massage and your own in home massage chair cover
17. Signed SDSU women’s basketball
18. “Man Pack” - pizza, haircut and a beer
19. “Up to the Bar” 18 piece cocktail glassware set
20. Quit Your Wine-ing (stemless glasses and wine)
21. Champagne Set (goblets and flutes and a bottle of champagne
22. “On the Rocks” (cooler and rocks glass set)
23. Surf School in Pacific Beach certificate good for 1 lesson for two people

Special treasures from Birney
1. Movies with Ms. Donovan - 2 kids ("you and a friend") popcorn and drinks. Parent approved movie
2. Movies with Ms. Touw - 3 kids popcorn and drinks.
3. Lunch with Ms. Amanda for your child and a friend at Station Grill
4. Student recognition awards in July - 4 front row seats
5. 5th grade promotion in July - 4 front row seats
6. Kinder promotion in July - 4 front row seats
7. December Awards - 4 front row seats
8. March Awards - 4 front row seats
9. Grade level performance in July (each grade, date, time) - 4 front row seats
10. Principal’s parking spot for July

And hopefully many more...

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Pizza Gourmet Express - June 9 and July 14

Family Dinner Night at Pizza Gourmet Express

Enjoy a nice dinner out and help support the Birney PTA assembly programs at the same time.

Wednesday, June 9
and Wednesday, July 14
11 am - 9 pm

4615 Park Boulevard • San Diego, CA 92116
(619) 546-7430

Come enjoy a fresh selection of Pizzas prepared to your specifications right before your eyes. Enjoy them baked in our high speed pizza ovens, or take and bake at home. If you are having meetings at work order take out. Teachers, get a group order together and enjoy some good food at lunchtime. Birney Elementary will get 25% of all food purchases. Discount does not apply to deliveries.

Let’s enjoy some good food and support field
trips and assemblies for our Birney students.

Don't forget you can order it ahead of time and pick it up or even order it not cooked and cook it up later.

If you need a flier, download one here!

Garden Grant. Help us win!


Nature’s Path is giving $50,000 in cash, garden design, technical assistance, and fund raising support to two deserving communities.

Our school,


Alice Birney Elementary, an International Studies Magnet has a large established school garden comprised of numerous fruit trees, herbs, California native plants, drought tolerant plants and a beautiful vegetable garden. Additionally, the preschool has a small raised bed box to start teaching even our youngest community members how to grow food.

Approximately 3000 square feet of our urban campus is currently maintained by volunteers, parents, a paid Garden Club instructor (2 hours a week/16 weeks) and students for the purpose of growing food and learning about nature, plants and agriculture in general. Additionally, four compost bins and a worm bin are maintained to teach children about conservation, decomposers (bugs and bacteria) and natural soil amendment. With such an established garden, why are we requesting grant support?

We are humbly requesting financial assistance that will allow us to hire an independent educator (20 hours a week/36 weeks) to run the Garden Club and help the teaching staff integrate the garden into their classroom curriculum. The curriculum that is developed will belong to the school and will be used in future years. We also believe that if we pay for this position, we are demonstrating our support of those who pursue agricultural education in spite of an academic environment that is devastated by budget cuts. Thank you for your consideration and your support of agricultural education.

When you have a moment, please vote for Birney Elementary School Garden grant. Click the below link, go to the top/right 'log-in' box, create an account, and vote for Birney's garden project.

Please feel free to pass along to your friends and family. Every vote counts!