* * * * * 

This Week! Donate to the Food Drive for MDUSD HOPE Food Pantry

Please help us collect nonperishable “Open and Eat” food items for the MDUSD HOPE Food Pantry. The Food Pantry provides food to many families in need within our school district. 

Drop off your items in the collection bins in front of the school office from Monday April 16 thru Friday April 20.

Items needed include:

• Juice Boxes, Capri Suns
• Bottled Water
• Granola Bars
• Raisins
• Cookies
• Breakfast Bars
• Pop Tarts
• Fruit Rollups or Fruit Snacks
  
• Peanut Butter or Cheese Crackers
• Jerky
• Trail Mix
• Nuts
• Fruit or Pudding Cups
• Cup-A-Noodles
• Peanut Butter & Jelly
• Instant Soups
• Instant Mac & Cheese
• Hot Chocolate Packet (just add water)
• Instant Oatmeal Packet (just add water)
• Tuna/Crackers (ready to eat containers)

Canned foods are also welcome, but as some families lack access to kitchens, so please focus on “Open and Eat” items. 

* * * * * 

Planning Meeting for Small World, Big Dreams:

Walnut Acres' First International Festival

Parents, would you like to get involved in Walnut Acres' first ever International Festival? The event will take place on Friday, June 1 from 5-7pmat Walnut Acres. We are holding an initial planning meeting at the benches in front of the school office on this Friday, April 20th from 1:30-2:30pm. 

We need enthusiastic family ambassadors to represent various countries. Choose a country that is part of your own family’s heritage or just a part of the world that you admire. We would love to have many countries and cultures represented!  This is an opportunity to celebrate the cultural diversity that exists at Walnut Acres and spark curiosity about the wider world.

Go to: International Festival to sign up. Please contact Jenny Kim for more information at smallworldbigdreamsforkids@gmail.com.

 * * * * * 

Parent Volunteer Appreciation Event at Sing-out on April 25th - 8:00 am

The Walnut Acres staff would like to thank parent volunteers for supporting Walnut Acres Elementary School.  The celebration will be part of the Trustworthiness Sing-out on Wednesday, 4/25, at 8:00 am. and again at 8:30 am. (Our second event may start a tad later since we are adding to our usual 30 minute assembly.)

Every parent who ever volunteered in a classroom, on a field trip, or from home, who worked in some capacity to raise money for school programs or personnel, who opened car doors at drop-off or student thermoses at lunch: You are invited to be recognized and officially thanked by the staff, teachers, and students of Walnut Acres. We hope you will join us as our community celebrates your spirit of volunteerism! 

If you are ready to be part of next year's PFC team, complete this PFC Volunteer Surveyand let us know where you'd like to get involved!

* * * * * 
Soul Shoppe Parent Workshop Wednesday, April 25, 9:30-10:15am

“What’s in your balloon? Reinforcing Soul Shoppe Lessons at Home”  

Parents are invited to learn more about the Soul Shoppe social emotional learning concepts that we are sharing with our students here at Walnut Acres. 

• Hear about Walnut Acres’ initiatives to support social emotional learning.
• Learn about ”the balloon” as an analogy for holding negative emotions
• Learn to support your child in coping with difficult feelings in a healthy way
• Help your child learn to stand up for themselves and be a “SuperAlly” to others
• Share what’s working for you and hear what other parents are doing at home.

This Parent Workshop will be facilitated by our school counselor, Joanne Finn on 
Wednesday, April 25, 9:30-10:15 am (after the April Sing Out).

* * * * * 

Curtains Up Youth Theater Camp, “Summer Magic,” June 18 - July 21

CUYT presents “Summer Magic,” a musical story that connects three great scenes from three great musicals. The production is open to students who have completed 2nd-5th grades at the end of the 2017-18 school year. Camp runs from June 18 through July 21 on Monday-Friday afternoons from 2:00 - 4:30 pm. (No camp June 29 - July 6.) Performances will be at 7:00 pm on July 20, and 21. Auditions will be held on June 11 and 12. For further information go to the PFC website or click here.

The Mt. Diablo Unified School District Community Speakers Series will present School Readiness with First 5 Contra Costa on 4/18/18 at 6:00 p.m. atRiverview Middle School. Families are invited to attend and learn how to prepare for that first day of kindergarten, and how they can make the day as smooth and enjoyable as possible for little ones new to school. Parents and guardians will get expert advice on how to establish positive pre-school activities and routines at home to support their child’s success in school. Experts will also have tips for that important first-day “goodbye.”

 * * * * *

PEAK & Forma Gym Join Forces to Help You Get Fit!  

Forma Gym is continuing to help support Walnut Acres Elementary via PEAK Education Foundation by offering a special gym membership initiation rate of just $49 (normally $199) and they are then donating this $49 back to PEAK. As the host of the annual Walnut Creek Turkey Trot, Forma Gym has been supporting PEAK Education Foundation for many years. At it's March meeting, Forma Gym presented PEAK with a check from the 2017 Turkey Trot for $15,000! Forma Gym offers over 100 classes a week, has an outdoor swimming pool with water aerobics plus excellent childcare services. For more details, contact Forma Gym. 

* * * * * 

Join Common Sense Kids Action and their Annual Kid’s Day of Action -  April 23 in Sacramento
This year. Common Sense Kids is teaming up with MomsRising for a fun-filled, kid centered kickoff on the Capitol steps - followed by legislator visits. If interested in advocating for kids with CSKidsAction please fill out this form.

Also, if you are new to advocacy and would like to learn more in advance of the day - we will be hosting an Advocacy 101 training - open to all.

Common Sense Kids Action works with policymakers, business leaders, and other advocates across the nation to ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed. Last year, in California we fought to protect immigrant families from being split up by unnecessary deportations, we fought to expand paid-family leave, and to incorporate tests for early childhood trauma into Medi-cal's developmental screenings. California's legislative session is ramping up - and we are excited to share our priority legislation soon - in the meantime we are working to grow our parent army to demand all kids have a chance to thrive.

Join with parents, educators and advocates from across California on APRIL 23 and receive the training you need to share your concerns and important voice on behalf of kids and their families!

* * * * * 

Walnut Acres Walk-A-Thon - Fundraising Begins this Friday
Fundraise:  March 23 to April 13
Walk: Friday, April 13, 8:30-12:30pm

Watch for a fundraising form to come home with your students this Friday! You will also receive an email for your student with a link to their fundraising page on 99Pledges. Our goal is to raise money for the Walnut Acres PFC to fund classroom aides, learning labs and technology, art and music instruction, and other elementary essentials for this school year. 

Questions? Contact Brooke Giddings and Tracy Pajer at walkathon@walnutacrespfc.net. Be on the lookout for a volunteer sign-up on Konstella next week. 

* * * * * 

Soul Shoppe Parent Workshop Next Week

“What’s in your balloon? Reinforcing Soul Shoppe Lessons at Home”  

In March and April, parents are invited to learn more about the Soul Shoppe social emotional learning concepts that we are sharing with our students here at Walnut Acres. 

• Hear about Walnut Acres’ initiatives to support social emotional learning.
• Learn about ”the balloon” as an analogy for holding negative emotions
• Learn to support your child in coping with difficult feelings in a healthy way
• Help your child learn to stand up for themselves and be a “SuperAlly” to others
• Share what’s working for you and hear what other parents are doing at home.

These Parent Workshops will be facilitated by our school counselor, Joanne Finn on Monday, March 26 from 1:45 to 2:30 pm (right before school gets out), and again onWednesday, April 25, 9:30-10:15 am (after the April Sing Out).

* * * * *  

It’s Time to Register for Spring After School Enrichment Classes!

Enrichment classes are held after school hours and are available on a first come/first serve basis for Walnut Acres sudents. All registration forms and payments go directly to the class vendors. See the website for details.  

Monday: Black Dragon Chess, April 9-June 4, Grades 1-5

Tuesday: Golf Squad, April 17-June 5, Grades 1-5

Wednesday: Kids in the Kitchen, April 18-May 15, Grades 1-5

Wednesday, Basketball, April 18-June 5, Grades 1-5

Thursday: Flag Football, April 19-May 31, Grades 1-5

Friday Sarah's Science, April 13-June 1, Grades 1-4

Go to the Enrichment Page of the PFC website for class schedules and more details.

Questions? Please email Kristen Gray at enrichment@walnutacrespfc.net.  

* * * * * 

Noon Supervisor Position Open at Walnut Acres Elementary 
Hello Walnut Acres Community! Would you be interested in a Noon Supervisor job at school? We are seeking two kind and patient folks who want to help children be successful in the MUR and on both the 1st-5th  and kindergarten playgrounds. Training will be included to support peace path and problem solving strategies with our students. The positions are 7.5 hours per week. One position is daily with hours from approximately 11:10-12:45 a.m. daily (less time on Wed.)  The other position is M, T, Th, and F from 11:10-1:00 p.m. Salary begins at $13.43 per hour. Please apply on EdJoin if you are interested! If you have questions, give Dr. Dowd a call at 939-1333.

* * * * * 

District Parent Updates from PAC (Parent Advisory Committee) 

Dr. Nellie Meyer, MDUSD Superintendent, organized the PAC to hear from representatives at each school. Our District Liaisons are Lila Samady and Cherise Khaund. 

At the March 18th meeting, The Assistant Superintendent, Chris Holleran, presented on the current state of safety plans throughout the district. For details, please visit:http://www.walnutacrespfc.net/district-parent-report.

* * * * * 

Curtains Up Youth Theater Camp, “Summer Magic,” June 18 - July 21

CUYT presents “Summer Magic,” a musical story that connects three great scenes from three great musicals. The production is open to students who have completed 2nd-5th grades at the end of the 2017-18 school year. Camp runs from 6/18-7/21 on Monday-Friday afternoons. (No camp 6/29-7/6.) Performances will be at 7:00 pm on July 20, and 21. Auditions will be held on June 11 and 12. For further information go to the PFC website or click here.

MDUSD's Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) Speaker Series:

Cyber Safety with Above the Fray

Tonight, Tuesday, March 20, 6 - 8 pm

Northgate High School

Join us for an evening with Above the Fray, a non-profit organization dedicate to empowering responsible and safe social media users. The event is open to all MDUSD parents, guardians, and caregivers to look at what’s happening in the digital lives of young people, which may be a surprise for many parents. We will proactively address topics like cyberbullying, social media, internet safety, sexting and gaming. The objective is to give parents tangible tools to use to start meaningful conversations at home before issues arise. Spanish translation will be available. Learn more at:http://www.beabovethefray.org/.

 * * * * * 

5th Graders...

Go Fishing with Boy Scout Troop 810

Boy Scouts Troop 810 invites all interested 5th graders to come fishing. 

When is the event? Saturday, March 31 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm 
Where? At Heather Farm pond, 301 N. San Carlos Drive, Walnut Creek. We will be meeting at the building next to the pond.  Watch for a bunch of boys with fishing poles. 

What to Bring? A fishing pole, tackle hooks, bait - if you don't have any of these, don't worry, we will have extras, just let us know.

What Will We Be Doing? Fishing, learning how to tie knots, cleaning and cooking the fish you catch - don't worry, we will have other food if no fish are caught!

For more information and to RSVP, please contact Dorene Soe at dalouie8@yahoo.com or call 925-932-0733,  so that we can make sure we have enough equipment and so we can notify you in case of weather changes. Please RSVP by Saturday, March 24.  

* * * * * 

Cub Scouts Pack Meeting

Wednesday, March 21st  in the MUR

6:45 - 8:00pm

All Kindergarten thru 5th grade boys and families are welcome to join – sign-ups are still available!  Reach out to Pack Membership Chair Sarah Waters at sarahsin70@hotmail.com for additional details. 

* * * * * 

Youth Art Contest: Be Featured in Contra Costa Water District's 2019 Calendar!

Children ages 8 to 11 years who value tap water and have a knack for art can combine both interests in the Contra Costa Water District “Water Awareness” art contest. Winning entries will be featured in the District’s 2019 calendar. The contest—which opens March 5, and runs through April 6—is designed to challenge local youths to think about the importance of clean, reliable tap water. Children are encouraged to illustrate the water cycle, ways they use water or ways to use water efficiently. Winning entries will be announced during National Drinking Water Week, May 6-12. In addition to having their artwork featured in the 2019 Contra Costa Water District calendar, children who submit winning entries will receive a $50 gift certificate to an art supply store; framed artwork with a certificate of appreciation; and a copy of the printed calendar. Prizes will be awarded at a Board of Directors meeting in the fall, after the calendars are printed. For complete contest rules, visithttp://ccwater.com/999/Water-Awareness-Youth-Art-Contest

* * * * * 

Join Common Sense Kids Action and their Annual Kid’s Day of Action- 
April 23rd in Sacramento

This year we will be teaming up with MomsRising for a fun-filled kiddo centered kickoff on the Capitol steps - followed by legislator visits. If interested in advocating for kids with CSKidsAction please fill out this form.

Also, if you are new to advocacy and would like to learn more in advance of the day - we will be hosting an Advocacy 101 training - open to all: 

Common Sense Kids Action works with policymakers, business leaders, and other advocates across the nation to ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed. Last year, in California we fought to protect immigrant families from being split up by unnecessary deportations, we fought to expand paid-family leave, and to incorporate tests for early childhood trauma into Medi-cal's developmental screenings. California's legislative session is ramping up - and we are excited to share our priority legislation soon - in the meantime we are working to grow our parent army to demand all kids have a chance to thrive.

PLEASE Join with parents, educators and advocates from across California on APRIL 23 and receive the training you need to share your concerns and important voice on behalf of kids and their families!

* * * * * 
Last Call for Wine to Support Walnut Acres

We still need wine donations to make the biggest party of the year the best fundraiser yet. Please consider sharing a bottle (or a case!) to support the cause. You may drop them off at 115 Los Banos Ave by Thursday, March 8 or email Marisa Linquist for pickup ($20 minimum value per bottle please). Cheers to everyone who has donated already, or who is planning to this week! 

Live and Let Bid Live Auction Gala This Friday, March 9

The event you've been waiting for is almost here! Pickup your tux or Bond-girl gown, and secure your childcare, so you'll be ready for a fabulous night of drinks, dining, and bidding fun at Boundary Oaks this Friday, March 9 from 5:30pm - midnight!    

* * * * *  

Have your kids finished their fabulous ART for the 
Walnut Acres Art Show?

The show is next Thursday March 15th with an Artists' Reception from 6-8 pm in the MUR. Bring the whole family and snack on delicious treats while viewing artwork done by our students both on their own and during their Art Awareness Classes. Each child and classroom will be represented so you won't want to miss it!

We still need volunteers to help with set-up the day before and to bring baked goods to the reception. If you can help, please see the sign-up sheet on Konstella or contact Arsinoe Ferry, arsinoe66@gmail.com.

* * * * *  

Yearbook still needs your pictures!

Please upload them to:
www.hjeshare.com 
Enter school code: walnutacres

Please note: We DO NOT have access to the photos being uploaded to Konstella. Photos must be uploaded to the yearbook share site in order for us to use them in the book. Thank you for the photos of Ice Cream Social and Halloween. These pages are completed and we no longer need photos for those two events.  

Any questions please email - yearbook@walnutacrespfc.net  

* * * * *

Walnut Acres' Student Council Presents:
Sports Day!
Friday, March 16
Remind your students to show off their favorite team or player! 

Save the Date: Walnut Acres 2nd Annual Walk-A-Thon!

Fundraise:  March 23 to April 13

Walk: Friday, April 13, 8:30-12:30pm

Our goal is to raise money for the Walnut Acres PFC to fund classroom aides, learning labs and technology, art and music instruction, and other elementary essentials.
Grand Prize Winner! The top fundraiser in the school will win a pair of tickets to see the Golden State Warriors.
Win Raffle Prizes for over $50, $100, $150 in fundraising from our local community including Sports Basement, The Ultimate Field house, and Rebel Arts.
Win A Class Jamba Juice Party The three classes with the most fundraising, most laps, and best spirit in the school will get Jamba Juice Parties.
Questions? Contact Brooke Giddings and Tracy Pajer at walkathon@walnutacrespfc.net. Be on the lookout for a volunteer sign-up on Konstella at the end of the month. 

Youth Art Contest: Be Featured in Contra Costa Water District's 2019 Calendar!

Children ages 8 to 11 years who value tap water and have a knack for art can combine both interests in the Contra Costa Water District “Water Awareness” art contest. Winning entries will be featured in the District’s 2019 calendar. The contest—which opens today, March 5, and runs through April 6—is designed to challenge local youths to think about the importance of clean, reliable tap water. Children are encouraged to illustrate the water cycle, ways they use water or ways to use water efficiently. Winning entries will be announced during National Drinking Water Week, May 6-12. In addition to having their artwork featured in the 2019 Contra Costa Water District calendar, children who submit winning entries will receive a $50 gift certificate to an art supply store; framed artwork with a certificate of appreciation; and a copy of the printed calendar. Prizes will be awarded at a Board of Directors meeting in the fall, after the calendars are printed. For complete contest rules, visit http://ccwater.com/999/Water-Awareness-Youth-Art-Contest

* * * * * 

Live and Let Bid Auction 

Online Auction Accepting Bids Now!

Use your email to Sign Up for the 2018 Online Auction. From grade level teacher treats, buy-in parties, and special events to fabulous tickets and gifts from local businesses, the online offerings are going quickly, so place your online bids today!

Sweet Way to Save Wine Walk

We need a dessert house host to save this tradition! If you have a home or a friend near Walnut Acres Elementary campus, please consider stepping up to be our third host for this wonderful walkable evening. Contact Riva Bobrowsky if you can help – we are running out of time!

Can you help with Time or with Wine?

You can still contribute to or help with the Auction... We continue to collect wine donations that will be sold at the auction. Please deliver to 115 Los Banos Ave or email Marisa Linquist for pickup ($20 minimum value per bottle please). AND, we need auction night volunteers - learn more and sign up on Konstella or contact Karen Nepacena.

Thank you for doing your part to make this year’s most exciting fundraiser a great success FOR OUR KIDS! 

* * * * * 

Soul Shoppe Grade-Level Workshops at Walnut Acres, Wednesday, Feb. 21st
Walnut Acres students will be attending grade-level workshops with Soul Shoppe this Wednesday, February 21st. The workshop is called "I've Got Your Back: From Bystander to Upstander." Attached to this Enews is a letter from Soul Shoppe that explains tools students can use to help friends stop bullying, teasing, excluding or gossiping, and what parents can do to reinforce the skills. Stay tuned for more information on a follow up parent presentation by Soul Shoppe on social emotional learning tools.

Joanne Finn, MA, School Counselor (925) 939-1333.

* * * * * 

CUYT Presents the 5th Grade Play: Alice in Wonderland

Mark your calendars now for the upcoming presentations of Alice in Wonderland performed by Walnut Acres 5th grade students (and an ensemble cast of 4th graders). All tickets $8; all shows begin at 7:00 pm. 

New York Cast: Thursday & Saturday, February 22 & 24, Friday, March 2
London Cast: Friday, February 23, Thursday & Saturday, March 1 & 3

* * * * *

Walnut Acre's Student Council Presents:
Friday, February 23rd 
Crazy Hair Day 
Students, wear your hair in the craziest way you can imagine!

* * * * *

Call for Nominations: MDEA Academy Awards  

Nominations are now open for the sixth annual Mt. Diablo Education Association (MDEA)  Academy Awards! Anyone may submit a nomination to recognize, promote, and celebrate the excellence of MDUSD employees and community members.

Individuals may be nominated for the following awards.

Outstanding Achievement in Teaching (5 awards)
• Leadership & Courage
• Creative Curriculum
• Most Inspirational
• Community Involvement
• Lifetime Achievement

Awards for Non-Teachers:
• Outstanding Classified Employee 
• Outstanding Administrator
• Outstanding Parent Volunteer (serving our MDUSD schools)
• Outstanding Volunteer Organization (serving our MDUSD schools)

Submit online here: http://bit.ly/MDEAAANomination

Nominations are due Wednesday, February 28

Awards night will be Thursday, May 10 at Centre Concord 5 – 9 pm

 * * * * *

Share your School Photos with the Yearbook!  Students, parents and teachers can contribute photos to the yearbook staff by directly uploading them to the yearbook website for potential use.  You can share photos of field trips, classroom events, school and community events or shots of your children and their friends. The more you share, the better our book can be!  Go to www.hjeshare.com and enter school code: walnutacres 

Girls on the Run - Walnut Acres Field
Tuesdays 4:00 - 5:15pm ; Saturdays 9:45 - 11:00am
Grades 3-5
February 27-May 12th 

At Girls on the Run, we believe that every girl can embrace who she is, can define who she wants to be, and can change the world. Girls in grades 3rd-5th, come have fun with us and take part in games that help you feel positive and good! This is NOT a competitive running program; it is a celebration of doing things you never thought you could. Physical activity is woven into our program to inspire an appreciation of fitness and to build habits that lead to a lifetime of health. 

Join us each Tuesday and Saturday to move, jump, have fun and celebrate yourself! The 10-week session includes healthy snacks at each lesson, a t-shirt, a water bottle and entry to the end of season Girls on the Run 5K on Sunday, May 6th in San Francisco. 

Tuition $275 For more details visit: Girls on the Run

* * * * * 

 * * * * *

The 2018 Science Fair is Next Week!

Thank you for encouraging our young enthusiastic scientists to participate in one of Walnut Acres' favorite events, the Annual Science Fair! We have over 100 registrations and we are eagerly looking forward to meeting and learning from these young scientists. 

Science Fair Activity Schedule:
Wednesday, January 31: Deliver and Set-up Projects
MUR 11:30 am - 1:30 pm and 6:30 - 7:30 pm
Thursday, February 1:  Science Fair Day!
Judging of Projects:  8:00 am - noon
Classes view Projects:  12:30 - 2:30 pm
Family Open House: 2:30 - 4:00pm and 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Friday, February 2:
Classes view Projects: 8:00 am - 2:30 pm
Pick up Projects and Take Home:  2:30 - 3:30 pm
Saturday, March 10:
Annual MDUSD Elementary STEM Showcase 9 am – 11 am

We need volunteer judges! We could still use a few more judges on Thursday morning from 8:00 - 12:00. No prior judging experience is required! A brief training and score sheets will be provided. Please sign up on Konstella now! The success of the Science Fair depends on parent involvement and we are ever grateful to the wonderful Walnut Acres community for always pitching in.

If you have questions, please contact Science Fair coordinators Marci Cole Ekberg or Vani Rajagopalan at sciencefair@walnutacrespfc. net. 

* * * * * 

Wine for Walnut Acres Please!

Consider giving a bottle (or a case!) of your favorite wine to the auction.  We depend on wine donations for partygoers to purchase for their tables on auction night.  Drop off at 115 Los Banos Ave or email Marisa Linquist to coordinate a pick up. ($20 minimum value per bottle please). 

Countdown to Live and Let Bid!

We’re in the final preparations, and there is so much to celebrate already:

- Congratulations to Katie Evans, winner of our Rent the Runway raffle for a gown of her choice to wear on auction night!  It’s time for everyone else to start planning your own glamorous look for this James Bond themed event, too!
- Thanks to 200+ individuals who purchased tickets already, the live auction event is sold-out!  Even if you don’t have tickets, everyone is invited to join the online auction in February – watch for updates.
- Want to do your part?  Check out the latest announcement on Konstella to learn how YOU can help during this final push to make this year’s most exciting fundraiser a great success! 

* * * * * 

Share your School Photos with the Yearbook!  Students, parents and teachers can contribute photos to the yearbook staff by directly uploading them to the yearbook website for potential use.  You can share photos of field trips, classroom events, school and community events or shots of your children and their friends. The more you share, the better our book can be!  Go to www.hjeshare.com and enter school code: walnutacres 

Walnut Acres Fundraising Event February 7th at Round Table Clubhouse

On Wednesday, February 7, the  Round Table Clubhouse on Treat Blvd. in Concord will host a Walnut Acres Day from 11 am to 9 pm. If you share that you are from Walnut Acres Elementary, 25% of your purchase will go directly to the Walnut Acres Parent Faculty Club.

Date: Wednesday, February 7th
Location: Round Table Clubhouse
2960 Treat Blvd. Concord
Time: 11 am – 9 pm
Gather up your friends and head over!

Event includes take-out, delivery or dine-in purchases. No coupons or special offers will be accepted during this event. Remember to say you are with Walnut Acres PFC! The first 20 WA Families who order (call in or in person) will receive a certificate for a free personal pizza ($10 value).

* * * * *

New Shop and Earn for Walnut Acres Amazon.com Link! 

Our Amazon.com link below will link you to the Walnut Acres Amazon Associates page, where you can place your Amazon orders, and up to 10% of your total will go directly to the school. Be sure to bookmark this page for future ordering: Amazon.com

Note: if you have previously ordered through the Walnut Acres AmazonSmile program, please change your bookmark to this Amazon Associates program link. It pays out a greater percentage than the AmazonSmile program.

 * * * * * 

Lost and Found! 

We're only 2 weeks into the new year, but the Lost and Found bin is full already! Please have your student check for their coats and sweatshirts. There are lots of items there that they probably want to wear in this cold weather!

Boy Scouts Troop 810 Open House- Tuesday, January 23rd! 

Boy Scouts Troop 810 invites all interested 5th graders and their parents to attend our Open House on Tuesday, January 23 from 7:30 - 8:30 pm.  The Open House will take place at Foothill Middle School  at 2775 Cedro Lane, Walnut Creek. Our scouts will be showing you how to put up a tent that stays up, how to pack a backpack and not make it so heavy you can't carry it up a mountain, and how to tie knots. Games and snacks will also be provided.  Come learn about the many things Troop 810 has to offer - monthly overnight camping trips, ziplining, snow camping, canoeing, just to name a few. This year we will be going to Emerald Bay and Wolfeboro for our summer camps.

Troop 810 is a boy led troop that values and promotes leadership development, community service, scout skills, fun and adventure. We were established in 1966 and have over 150 Eagle Scouts. We meet most Tuesdays evenings at Foothill Middle School.   For more information and to RSVP, please contact Dorene Soe at dalouie8@yahoo.com or 925-932-0733. We look forward to meeting you. You can also check out our website at http://www.bsa810.org/ 

* * * * * 

Watch the Movie Angst at St. Matthew Church, January 24th

Saint Matthew Church is hosting a FREE community-wide screening of the movie Angst to raise awareness around Anxiety. The movie features candid interviews with teens about anxiety, tools that help and hope. The screening is appropriate for children 10 and up. It’s produced by the same people that brought us Screenagers. 

ANGST Movie, Wednesday, January 24 at 7 pm at St Matthew Church, 399 Wiget Lane.  Reserve your FREE tickets and view a trailer for ANGST here.   

Got Aluminum Cans and Plastic Bottles?

NEXT WEEK, January 16-19th, at morning drop-off, we are collecting CRV-labeled aluminum cans and plastic bottles. No need to get out of your car - just hand us the bag (or open your trunk for us) as you go through the drive thru!

Every first week of the month, we will collect CRV beverage containers (please, no glass) from you as you drop your child off at school. Recycled materials will be exchanged for cash at a recycling center and the proceeds will be used for playground supplies, and for Walnut Acres Recycling Club supplies and activities. 

Science Fair Volunteers Needed

Join the Walnut Acres students as they embark on a fun scientific adventure!  We need parent volunteers to help with set-up, check-in of projects, judging, and clean-up. 

Our greatest need is for volunteers to judge the projects. All it involves is talking to the students about their projects and asking a few questions from a prepared score sheet. It's lots of fun and exciting to see the projects and the pride that the students take in their work. No prior judging experience is required. A brief training and score sheets will be provided. We especially need parents with children in younger grades who are able to judge 4th or 5th grade projects. No experience necessary. Sign up here to volunteer!  

Need more information? See the flyer that was sent home before the winter break, or visit the PFC website at www.walnutacrespfc.org/activities/science-fair.  Or, refer to the project guidelines and judges standards for complete information on preparing for Walnut Acre's Science Fair.

If you have questions (or if you want to join the Science Fair Leadership team), please contact Science Fair Coordinators Marci Cole Ekberg or Vani Rajagopalan at sciencefair@walnutacrespfc.org.

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Save Walnut Acres Wine Walk

We need hosts for 2018! Help us keep this tradition going. Walnut Acres parents look forward to the annual wine walk event to break in the new school year.  Meet new parents and visit with old friends, and help raise funds for auction at the same time! If you are interested in hosting but need more details, please contact: Courtney Biagi.

Wine Donations Needed

Thank you to everyone who has contributed already! Wine donations for auction are still needed, so drop off a bottle of your favorite at 115 Los Banos Ave or email Marisa Linquist to coordinate a pick up. ($20 minimum value per bottle please).

Gather your friends together to host a Kid Buy-In Party

We are still looking for hosts for Kid Buy-In Parties to be sold at the Auction. We are especially in need of hosts for 1st and 4th grade (1 party needed for each) and 3rd grade (2 parties needed). These parties are a great way to get involved and help raise much-needed funds for many of the wonderful extra programs offered at Walnut Acres Elementary. Moreover, they are lots of FUN for the kids and the hosts!! Some potential party theme ideas are: sports, swim, movie, crafts, picnic, scavenger hunt, or an art party. Please consider hosting a Kid Buy-In Party. If you would like to find out more, please contact Gosia Rees at kidbuyinparties@walnutacrespfc.net.

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New Link! Shop and Earn for Walnut Acres at Amazon.com

Our Amazon.com link below will link you to the Walnut Acres Amazon Associates page, where you can place your Amazon orders, and up to 10% of your total will go directly to the school. Be sure to bookmark this page for future ordering: Amazon.com

Note: if you have previously ordered through the Walnut Acres AmazonSmile program, please change your bookmark to this Amazon Associates program link. It pays out a greater percentage than the AmazonSmile program.

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Watch the Movie Angst at St. Matthew Church, January 24th

Saint Matthew Church is hosting a FREE community-wide screening of the movie Angst to raise awareness around Anxiety. The movie features candid interviews with teens about anxiety, tools that help and hope. The screening is appropriate for children 10 and up. It’s produced by the same people that brought us Screenagers. 

ANGST Movie, Wednesday, January 24 at 7 pm at St Matthew Church, 399 Wiget Lane.  Reserve your FREE tickets and view a trailer for ANGST here. 

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Boy Scouts Troop 810 Open House

Boy Scouts Troop 810 invites all interested 5th graders and their parents to attend our Open House on Tuesday, January 23 from 7:30 - 8:30 pm.  The Open House will take place at Foothill Middle School  at 2775 Cedro Lane, Walnut Creek. Our scouts will be showing you how to put up a tent that stays up, how to pack a backpack and not make it so heavy you can't carry it up a mountain, and how to tie knots. Games and snacks will also be provided.  Come learn about the many things Troop 810 has to offer - monthly overnight camping trips, ziplining, snow camping, canoeing, just to name a few. This year we will be going to Emerald Bay and Wolfeboro for our summer camps.

Troop 810 is a boy led troop that values and promotes leadership development, community service, scout skills, fun and adventure. We were established in 1966 and have over 150 Eagle Scouts. We meet most Tuesdays evenings at Foothill Middle School.   For more information and to RSVP, please contact Dorene Soe at dalouie8@yahoo.com or 925-932-0733. We look forward to meeting you. You can also check out our website at http://www.bsa810.org/ 

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Read-A-Thon Wrap Up

The numbers are still rolling in but we can tell you that every ninja reader rocked the Read-A-Thon this year! Thank you for your participation and support of your student, we couldn't have done it without you. 

The question on everybody's mind is.... now that the reading and fundraising is complete, when are prizes being distributed? The Read-A-Thon team is planning to hand out prizes to students THIS WEEK once all of the numbers have been logged and totaled. A special announcement with details will follow next week. Thank you again for your support!

Annual Toy and Clothing Drive - DRIVERS NEEDED Friday Dec. 15th

 A HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who contributed to this year’s Toy and Clothing Drive benefitting Shore Acres Elementary School. It has been a huge success with more than two carloads of donations picked up each day! 

We are still looking for volunteers help transport the donations to Shore Acres Elementary School in Bay Point. Donations collected last week are being sorted and will be ready for delivery on Friday, December 15th.  Vehicles will load up at 1:30pm and caravan to Shore Acres. Minivans or SUVs are preferred, but any size vehicle is welcome!

If you can help deliver donations, please sign up on Konstella. Bring your children and their friends with you so that they can share in the experience. Students from Shore Acres will be there to help, too. If you have any questions, please email communityservice@walnutacrespfc.net.  

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Student Council Fundraising: Purchase a Walnut Acres

BE KIND ORNAMENT

… for friends, family or that someone special. Ornaments are $5 each (silver shatterproof ornament with Walnut Acres jaguar logo). Only 100 available so shop early!

In the recent past, Student Council fundraising helped support the purchase of the electronic marquee. Money raised from these ornaments will go to a future item or project to benefit Walnut Acres. 

Sales after school: 
Tuesday, December 12 12:15-1:30pm
Wednesday, December 13 12:15-1:00pm
Thursday, December 14 12:15-1:30pm

 Questions? Contact Student Council Facilitator, Faye Mettler at mettlerf@mdusd.org.

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Math Kangaroo Competition - Sign up by December 15th
This year, for the first time, Walnut Acres is participating in the 23rd Annual International Math Kangaroo Competitionfor students in 1st-12th grades. Math Kangaroo's goal is to encourage students to learn mathematics by presenting them with problems that are interesting and by rewarding their efforts.

The competition will take place on Thursday, March 15, 2018, but sign ups are happening now. You may register online by December 15, and the fee is $20.  All registered participants will be invited to practice their math problem-solving skills with parent volunteer leaders over the next few months, in preparation for this written, strategy-based math contest. For more information check out Math Kangaroo. Questions? Email Walnut Acres parent Chao Yang. 

Please complete the annual Walnut Acres Parent Survey

Each year Mt. Diablo seeks input from parents in order to evaluate relationships among students, parents, and school staff. The data isused at the district level to assess needs, so your input matters! Results will also be reviewed by Walnut Acres staff, School Site Council, and our Safety Committee as we analyze our successes and challenges leading to next year’s goals.

Between now and December 31, go to the California School Parent Survey to complete the anonymous 15-minute survey. You are welcome to request a pencil-paper copy of the survey from the office if you prefer. Or, we will have the Co-Lab (B-6) open during parent conferences so that you may complete the survey before or after your parent conference. 

However you choose to participate, we encourage you to complete the survey so that the data we collect will include YOUR PERSPECTIVE!

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Fifth Graders! Troop 810 Boy Scouts Bowling Night Tuesday, December 12 at 6:30 pm

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Calling all Pack 210 Lions, Tiger Cubs, Wolves, Bears and Webelos! 
Cub Scouts Pack Meeting 
Wednesday, December 13th in the MUR
6:45 - 8:00pm

All Kindergarten thru 5th grade boys and families are welcome to join – sign-ups are still available! Reach out to Pack Membership Chair Sarah Waters at sarahsin70@hotmail.com for additional details. 

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Scottsdale Swim Club Screening of Star Wars: The Last Jedi

Saturday, December 16, 2017
Exclusive 3D Screening Event, 6:00 pm Arrival, 7:00 pm Showtime 
Walnut Creek Cinemark Theaters Downtown
If you are interested, text Kelley at 925-323-7168
Ticket sale proceeds support the Scottsdale Swim Club, a Northgate
Neighborhood Community Pool and Tennis Club. 
Tickets are $25.00/per person,  PayPal or checks made to SSC.

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Breakfast with Santa

$15 (Kids $5) Kids 2 and under are free.
Includes a picture with Santa!
December 17, 9am-11am Boundary Oak Golf Course

Support the Northgate High School Athletic Department

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Walnut Acres Read-A-Thon Ends This Week! 
Please have your students turn their Read-A-Thon Envelopes into their teacher by this Friday, December 1!

Annual Toy and Clothing Drive:  December 4-8

With the holidays upon us, it is time for Walnut Acres to reach out to the larger community with our Annual Toy and Clothing Drive benefiting Shore Acres Elementary School. We will be accepting donations of gently used toys and clothing December 4th to 8th in front of the school office. All sizes and types of clothing (except undergarments) for infants to adults are requested as well as toys and books. We kindly ask that clothing be free of stains and tears. As a guide, donate only what you would be comfortable giving to a friend. 
We also need volunteers (adults and students) to assist in sorting, delivering and storing  donations. Please SIGN UP to help and check the Community Service Page of the PFC website for volunteer details.  

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 Got Aluminum Cans and Plastic Bottles?

NEXT WEEK, Dec. 4-8, at morning drop-off, we are collecting CRV-labeled aluminum cans and plastic bottles. No need to get out of your car - just hand us the bag (or open your trunk for us) as you go through the drive thru!

Every first week of the month, we will collect CRV beverage containers (please, no glass) from you as you drop your child off at school. Recycled materials will be exchanged for cash at a recycling center and the proceeds will be used for playground supplies, and for Walnut Acres Recycling Club supplies and activities. 
Drive Thru and Drop Off every morning December 4-8!

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PFC Holiday Party
Tuesday, December 5 from 7:00 - 9:00pm

Eat, drink and be merry on Tuesday, December 5th from 7 - 9pm as we celebrate the holidays at the lovely home of PFC Board Member, Elise Lewis. All Walnut Acres parents, faculty and staff are invited, so please join us for an evening of Holiday cheer! The Lewis Home, 2538 Casa Grande Court, Walnut Creek.  Please sign up to bring an appetizer, dessert or special beverage to share.

20% off for Walnut Acres Elementary at Sports Basement 
on December 7th! 
Sports Basement is inviting everyone at Walnut Acres Elementary to a very special shopping day, where you will receive 20% off your entire purchase all day long. Mention your Basementeer account at the register, so your purchase supports Walnut Acres Elementary!

Can't Join us at the store? Join the celebration by shopping online. Use the code 2050008418800 at checkout. 

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Math Kangaroo Competition - sign up by December 15.

This year, for the first time, Walnut Acres is participating in the 23rd Annual International Math Kangaroo Competition for students in 1st-12th grades. Math Kangaroo's goal is to encourage students to learn mathematics by presenting them with problems that are interesting and by rewarding their efforts.

The competition will take place on Thursday, March 15, 2018, but sign ups are happening now. You may register online by December 15, and the fee is $20.  All registered participants will be invited to practice their math problem-solving skills with parent volunteer leaders over the next few months, in preparation for this written, strategy-based math contest. For more information check out Math Kangaroo. Questions? Email Walnut Acres parent Chao Yang.

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Please complete the annual Walnut Acres Parent Survey

Each year Mt. Diablo seeks input from parents in order to evaluate relationships among students, parents, and school staff. The data isused at the district level to assess needs, so your input matters! Results will also be reviewed by Walnut Acres staff, School Site Council, and our Safety Committee as we analyze our successes and challenges leading to next year’s goals.

Between now and December 31, go to the California School Parent Survey to complete the anonymous 15-minute survey. You are welcome to request a pencil-paper copy of the survey from the office if you prefer. Or, we will have the Co-Lab (B-6) open during parent conferences so that you may complete the survey before or after your parent conference. 

However you choose to participate, we encourage you to complete the survey so that the data we collect will include YOUR PERSPECTIVE!

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Exciting Experiences at “Live and Let Bid” Auction!

Do you have airline miles to spare? A time share? A connection with Pixar, Disney, or another technology, entertainment or hospitality company? We can turn it into a fun experience for a Walnut Acres family AND raise critical funds for our school! 

We still need donations to attract big-ticket bids, and YOU can help make it happen! Simply fill out the online form or email info to auctiondonations@walnutacrespfc.net . Don’t worry if you don’t know how your item fits into a unique outing or themed getaway – our Auction Team will turn your donation into something fantastic that will help achieve our fundraising goals. And the benefits for the families and the businesses who donate makes it a win-win!

Remember, every dollar raised at auction supports our school – donating and encouraging others to donate is how you can be a hero for OUR KIDS!

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Volunteers Needed: Walnut Acres Safety Committee

The Walnut Acres Safety Committee needs 2 or 3 new parents who can work with  Dr. Dowd and other parents to address Safety issues at school. The first meeting will be on Thursday, January 11, 2018 from 3:00 - 4:00 pm. If interested, contact Denise Calbeck at calbeckd@mdusd.org or Dr. Colleen Dowd at dowdc@mdusd.org.

You are Invited!
Foothill Middle School Parent Ed Night:
Social Media and Parenting
Wed, November 29, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Foothill Middle School Library  

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Fifth Graders! Troop 810 Boy Scouts Bowling Night Tuesday, December 12 at 6:30 pm

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Calling all Pack 210 Lions, Tiger Cubs, Wolves, Bears and Webelos! 
Cub Scouts Pack Meeting 
Wednesday, December 13th in the MUR
6:45 - 8:00pm

All Kindergarten thru 5th grade boys and families are welcome to join – sign-ups are still available! Reach out to Pack Membership Chair Sarah Waters at sarahsin70@hotmail.com for additional details. 

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The Walnut Acres Book Fair has begun!

Be a Reading Ninja and sneak into your favorite book at this year’s Book Fair in the MUR - you’ll be raising money for our school at the same time!

November 6 - 9, 2017
Tuesday: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Wednesday: 11:30 am - 1:30 pm, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm 
Thursday: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Teacher Wish List Boxes!  Look out for the Teacher Wish List Boxes, with books specially selected by your child's teacher for their classroom library. When you purchase a book from one of the Teacher Wish List Boxes, your student can deliver the book directly to the teacher, or we can deliver it for you.
Volunteers are still needed!  We need additional help on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. If you are able to help, please sign up on Konstella or contact the Book Fair chair atbookfair@walnutacrespfc.net. It’s a small commitment with a big impact!

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Get your books ready for the Walnut Acres Read-A-Thon!
November 13 - 30
American Ninja Reader: A Workout for your Brain!

Calling all Pack 210 Lions, Tiger Cubs, Wolves, Bears and Webelos! 
Cub Scouts Pack Meeting
Wednesday, November 15th in the MUR
6:45 - 8:00pm

All Kindergarten thru 5th grade boys and families are welcome to join – sign-ups are still available! Reach out to Pack Membership Chair Sarah Waters at sarahsin70@hotmail.com for additional details. 

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25th Annual Turkey Trot - Just 3 Weeks Away!
Join In This Community Tradition and Support Our Schools!
Runners & Volunteers Needed!

 Thanksgiving Morning, Thursday, Nov. 23rd, 8am at Civic Park.

This family fun event, brought to you by Forma Gym, is a great way to start your Thanksgiving holiday and show support for your schools! There are several races to choose from including Kids Fun Runs, 10K Run, and 5K run or walk, festival areas and a costume contest!

Last year the Turkey Trot raised over $15,000 for PEAK Education Foundation schools, and this year we hope to raise even more by having lots of students and parents participate.
VOLUNTEERS are needed to help this event run smoothly. There are opportunities to pass out race materials in the days leading up to the race, as well as several different volunteer tasks on race day.  If you're available, please consider donating a few hours of your time.

SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER

REGISTER TO RUN

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Fifth Graders!  Sign Up for Alice in Wonderland!

Walker Creek is behind us now, but we'd like you and your students to jump down one more rabbit hole!! Sign up for the 5th grade performance: Alice in Wonderland!

Click on this CURTAINS UP YOUTH THEATRE LINK to register, and to find all the dates, details, and showtimes. Registration deadline is Tuesday, November 14. First meeting is on Thursday, November 16 from 2:45- 3:45 pm. Auditions are November 27, 28, and 30.  

If you've already registered but haven't yet paid, please remember to submit payment in the Walnut Acres office CUYT box on or before Tuesday, November 14. 

Fourth Graders!

For the first time ever, CUYT is offering an exciting opportunity to a limited number of fourth grade students to join the Alice production. The fifth graders have priority with both registration and with the casting of parts, therefore, we will accept only the number of fourth graders necessary to fill our cast. To help us with our planning, please register as soon as possible. 

We hope to see your kids at the Tea Party!

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Win a Glamorous Dress for Live and Let Bid!

Halloween is over, but the BEST dress-up night is still ahead: our live auction event on Friday, March 9. This James Bond-themed night of dinner, dancing, and fun is your chance to shine, and our Rent the Runway raffle is an easy way to lock in the dress you’ve been dreaming of! Just $20 enters you for a chance to win a dress of your choice for the night ($200 value).

This raffle ends November 30, and you can only buy tickets using the paper order form (yellow forms also available in the office). Simply return to the Auction Box in the school office with your check. Parties are more fun in a fabulous dress, so don’t miss your chance to wear something you might never buy on your own.

And remember, every ticket sold supports a great cause – OUR KIDS!

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Landscaping Help Needed for the Walnut Acres Recycle Club 

The Recycle Club’s big project this year is to create a permanent recycling/composting station outside the MUR stage doors. I am going to work with the recycle club members to create cement stepping stones to decorate the area. The area will need to be prepped and we will work with MDUSD to get approval of whatever design we come up with. I could use help with design and installation. I imagine we’ll need some stones to fill in around the Recycle Club paving stones. We will be using some of the money raised by parent Mike Jahnke’s recycling fundraiser to implement this project. If you can help in any way, please send me an email to mlce517@gmail.com. Thanks! Marci Cole Ekberg, Recycle Club Coordinator. 

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Do you have a few hours to help box up some books?

Have you noticed all the boxes of books lined up against the end of the C-Wing wall? Dr. Dowd and Consuelo need some help organizing and boxing up books for storage and/or removal from campus. If you have a few hours to help during the school day, please email Jill atpresident@walnutacrespfc.net. The date and time will be up to you. Grab a friend to help and the job will be done in a snap!

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Box Tops for Education Donations Going Strong!

Thank you to all the Walnut Acres families who collected, clipped and donated Box Tops for Education this fall. Together, we have collected $145, which represents 14.5% of our $1,000 goal this school year.
* Where to find products with Box Tops on them? Here's a link to a complete list of participating products.
* Get the kids involved and have them collect Box Tops on fun collection sheets. 
* Did you know that you can save on products you purchase in stores, while collecting Box Tops for our school? Check these printable coupons out!
* Find out how you can turn your receipts into cash for your school by checking out the Box Tops for Education® Bonus App (free)
Thank you for your continuing support! Caroline Clerempuy, Box Tops Coordinator.

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