The Family Journal
The Weekly Newsletter of IACS-HS

College Counseling
The weekly College Counseling newsletter is attached to the Family Journal..

More Donations Needed!
The Biology and Environmental Science Classes will be looking to reuse clean glass jars (baby food, salsa jars) and clean spray bottles for upcoming labs and projects.
Several classes and honors students will also need plant pots for projects.
Please drop them off next Tuesday thru Friday in the Science Room (B 53) or on Ms. Burtch's desk in the teachers' room.
Thanks!
 

High School Service Culture Committee:
We are reaching out to our community of parents for an upcoming Service Day on February 25, 2009. We would love all suggestions or and support to help us make this day a success. See the Connection/Family Journal for more details

What we need:
•    A keynote speaker –someone who is involved in non-profit service based work.
•    At least 6-10 places where groups of our high school students can volunteer and therefore also establish long-term relationships for further service opportunities in the Greater Lowell area.
•    Parent chaperones
•    A panel of people who have done long-term service projects. Ideally, we would love the panel to be a combination of teaching staff and parents

If you are interested in helping us make this day a success, please contact Ryan Ferdinand (rferdinand@innovationcharter.org), Oliver Renau (orenau@innovationcharter.org) or Emily Porter (eporter@innovationcharter.org). Thank you!




IACS Gear is here!!!
Dress cozy in our new IACS gear! IACS sweatshirts and sweatpants now available!! See the attached IACS gear order form.

Athletics Information:
For all new and updated information regarding athletics, please refer to our Athletics webpage.

Community Volunteering High School Choice Block

The Community Volunteering High School Choice Block is conducting a food drive throughout the month of November and will be sending the donated goods to the Merrimack Valley Food Pantry, where we have been volunteering. Each week in November is dedicated to a different good.
2nd - 6th: Canned or Boxed Food
9th - 13th: Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, diapers, shampoo, soap, etc.)
16th - 20th: Thanksgiving Related Items (stuffing, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie mix, gravy, etc.)*We will accept any non-perishable food during any of the weeks above.



Picture Retake day is Monday, November 30th
If you are dissatisfied with your portrait and would like to try again, you have the opportunity for a retake.   Please return the entire, undamaged portrait package to the photographer on Retake Day. If your school has class photos, please keep it!  Write any suggestions for the photographer on a piece of paper so it shows through the envelope window.

Retake Packages will be distributed by the school approximately 3 to 5 weeks after Retake Day.

For REFUND information, please log on to www.coffeepond.com/pdf/refund

YOU ONLY HAVE UNTIL THIS MONDAY TO BUY SPACE IN THE HIGH SCHOOL PLAY PROGRAM! 
Do you know someone in the high school play cast or crew?  Do you own a business or know someone who does?  Do you have a message you want to share with hundreds of people?  If so, considering buying space in the "Midsummer" program!  You can purchase one line in the program for only $2!  Or, you can buy a whole page and say whatever you wish!  Please see the attached advertisement order form!

THE HIGH SCHOOL PLAY ADDS A MATINEE ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5th!
Due to demand, the high school play "A Midsummer Night's Dream" will add a third performance!  The show dates and times are Friday, December 4 at 7:00pm, and Saturday, December 5 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm. You and your family will not want to miss this hilarious romp through the forest with some unusual characters...including a Micheal Jackson impersonator, a Ghostbuster and Joe the Plumber!  Please see the attached ticket order form for information! 
Fairies, lovers, royalty and peasants need YOU!  Adults - please consider volunteering to help with the high school play!  Please email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org. Thank you! 
We need your hangers and plastic shopping bags!  Please consider donating these to the play!  Email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org for information!  Thank you! 

Coats for Kids

Coats for Kids wants you to donate coats to help people in need, both kids and adults.  It is a contest with other middle and elementary schools.  The drive begins immediately and ends on January 9, 2010.  There are prizes for the winning school, too.  One of the prizes last year was tickets to the IMAX Theater.  The coats will be cleaned by Anton’s Cleaners.  We want warm winter coats with no rips, holes, tears or stains.  Bring them in to school and put them on the coat rack that is located on the second floor of the middle school in front of the teachers’ mailboxes. If you have any questions be sure to speak to a member of HB Edelman or email Charlene LaRoche @ claroche@innovaitoncharter.org.    Thank you for your donations!   


Holiday Gift Cards:
IACA is happy to announce the Gift Cards are back! Gift Cards are sold at face value (no additional cost to you) and IACA receives a percentage of sales from the retailers. Categories include: Books & Music, Clothing & Accessories, Department Stores, Electronic & Office, Gas, Restaurants, Travel, Sporting Goods, Online & Catalog, Children & Teens, Grocery, Home Décor, Health & Beauty, Home Improvement, Specialty Stores and many more! With us you can do all your shopping at once and save you many trips to the mall!

Please see the attached flyer and order form for information on this terrific program. If you would like to see a complete list of hundreds of available retailers – please visit glscrip.com.

If you have any questions, please contact Nichole Young at  nyoung@innovationcharter.com You can place as many orders as you need. Family and friends are welcome to order too. Thank you for your support and happy shopping!!
 Program dates:
Order by Wednesday, November 11th - receive Wednesday, November 25th
Order by Wednesday, November 18th - receive Friday, December 4th
Order by Wednesday, December 2nd - receive Friday, December 18th
 
IACA Roller Skating Party!
Nov 17th (Early Release Day) 1:00-3:00 @ Roller Kingdom - Tyngsboro
Join your friends and family for a fun skating event! Admission is $6.00. Skates are available for rental ($3) or you can bring your own.  Hope to see you there!
Please click on the attachment below to view the flyer.   We hope you will consider joining us not only for a fun filled afternoon but as a way to raise funds for the IACS enrichment programs.

Looking to Volunteer?
The Board of Trustees Land and Facility Planning Committee is seeking a parent volunteer who is a civil engineer or has similar experience to provide guidance to the group.  While there are no plans for development of the property for school use or other wise at this time, the committee is working to best understand all possibilities.  Anyone interested that meets this criteria should contact Walter Landberg, Executive Director by email at wlandberg@innovationcharter.org or by phone at 978-649-0432, extension 2217.

Box Tops - HOMEBASE for the HOLIDAYS
THANKS to all who submitted Box Tops already this year! Our first submission has been sent and we expect a check for $262.50! (Yes - that's 2600 Box Tops and 5 Bonus Box Tops.)  Prizes have been placed in homebase mailboxes for distribution to students who participated in this individual contest.

I've heard from several folks who were waiting for a HOMEBASE (or Advisory) Contest - SO HERE IT IS! 
Box Tops HOMEBASE for the HOLIDAYS collection is ON!  Be sure to include your HOMEBASE (or Advisory) NAME with all Submissions in November and December.  On December 18th, we'll tally up the totals and award a HOLIDAY TREAT to the HOMEBASE and the ADVISORY who collected the MOST.  Bragging rights and homebase spirit are ON THE LINE!  A collection box is located on the table by the door just inside the cafeteria.

Planning on doing any ONLINE SHOPPING for the Holidays???  PLEASE Register at BTFE.COM to support Innovation Academy and then start your shopping there.  A portion of purchases from participating merchants will be AUTOMATICALLY added to our funds.  No coupons to clip, submission forms to send, or receipts to track.  Just register and then start your shopping from BTFE and you'll be supporting the school in a BIG WAY!
Happy Holidays from your Box Tops Coordinator!
Kate Conran
978-244-1244
kateconran@hotmail.com

Exciting Opportunity:
The IACS development team is looking for a parent or community volunteer to help lead the development, coordination, printing and maintenance of a quarterly magazine/newsletter on all things Innovation Academy.  The magazine will be sent out to family members and wider community members (external funders and partners, grandparents/parents, alumni, etc.) and will assist us in our efforts to spread the word about the excellent work that is being done at Innovation Academy.  Ideally, the individual will have experience working with Quark XPress or a similar magazine layout program and will have experience putting together similar publications.  We are also looking for writers and individuals willing to serve as the photographer for the magazine.  Anyone interested in helping to lead this and or get involved, should contact Walter Landberg, Executive Director. Wlandberg@innovationcharter.org or 978-649-0432 x2217

No Idling Policy attached

Upcoming Dates
Half Day: Thursday November 17, 2009-12:15 Dismissal

Learning spotlight: Progress Reports
Within the next week, families will receive mid-semester progress reports.  These reports are mailed to all students and reflect student progress over the first half of the semester.  Progress Report grades are not final, and provide valuable information about how students can grow over the second half of the semester.  If you have any questions, comments, or concerns about the grades reflected in the report, please contact your child’s teachers.  Please carefully read the letter included with Progress Reports as it provides important information about Academic Probation and Attendance.

If you are new to IACS, you will notice that each student receives strand grades in each class.  Strands are an essential aspect of the IACS high school grading system.  An explanation of our strands is attached to this week’s Family Journal.


Extra Help
After school extra help is from 3:00 – 4:00 each afternoon.  Students who need to stay should email or speak to their teachers in advance and need to make arrangement to be picked up promptly at 4:00.  Extra help hours are listed on all teacher syllabi and are also attached to this week’s Family Journal.

PAC meeting
Thursday November 12th 6:30-7:30 pm in the Student Services Conference Room. 
The PAC purpose is to ensure that children with special needs in our school have the best school experience possible. It is about sharing information, ideas, resources and energy among school personnel and families with and without special needs children.

College Counseling
The weekly College Counseling newsletter is attached to the Family Journal..

More Donations Needed!
The Biology and Environmental Science Classes will be looking to reuse clean glass jars (baby food, salsa jars) and clean spray bottles for upcoming labs and projects.
Several classes and honors students will also need plant pots for projects.
Please drop them off next Tuesday thru Friday in the Science Room (B 53) or on Ms. Burtch's desk in the teachers' room.
Thanks!
 
Society of Women Engineers
On Friday, November 13, the MITRE Corporation is hosting “Young Women in Engineering Day”. It’s a one-day workshop where they will experience the creativity and innovation of engineering and technology through hands-on activities and presentations. They will meet women engineers, see live demonstrations of real research, and hear first-hand about these exciting careers.

Event Details:
 Location: MITRE Corporation, S Building, 202 Burlington Road, Bedford, MA
Date: Friday, November 13, 2009
Time: 8:30AM - 2:00PM

More information can be found online at: http://www.mitre.org/public/ywie/
Space is limited.  Please email Mr. Orpen if you would like to attend.

High School Service Culture Committee:
We are reaching out to our community of parents for an upcoming Service Day on February 25, 2009. We would love all suggestions or and support to help us make this day a success. See the Connection/Family Journal for more details

What we need:
•    A keynote speaker –someone who is involved in non-profit service based work.
•    At least 6-10 places where groups of our high school students can volunteer and therefore also establish long-term relationships for further service opportunities in the Greater Lowell area.
•    Parent chaperones
•    A panel of people who have done long-term service projects. Ideally, we would love the panel to be a combination of teaching staff and parents

If you are interested in helping us make this day a success, please contact Ryan Ferdinand (rferdinand@innovationcharter.org), Oliver Renau (orenau@innovationcharter.org) or Emily Porter (eporter@innovationcharter.org). Thank you!


H1N1 vaccine clinic:
Student consent forms for the November, 17th  H1N1 vaccine clinic (to be held at IACS) have been sent home with all high school students today.  Signed consent forms should be returned to the Health Office no later than Friday November 13th. No student will be allowed to receive a vaccine without written parental consent.  The vaccine clinic is for high school students only and the date is subject to change due to the availability of the vaccine.  Parents will be notified of any change of date.  Middle school students are encouraged to consult their own physician and or local Board of Health in regards to receiving the vaccine.

IACS Gear is here!
Dress cozy in our new IACS gear! IACS sweatshirts and sweatpants now available!! See the attached IACS gear order form.

Athletics Information:
For all new and updated information regarding athletics, please refer to our Athletics webpage.

Community Volunteering High School Choice Block:

The Community Volunteering High School Choice Block is conducting a food drive throughout the month of November and will be sending the donated goods to the Merrimack Valley Food Pantry, where we have been volunteering. Each week in November is dedicated to a different good.
2nd - 6th: Canned or Boxed Food
9th - 13th: Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, diapers, shampoo, soap, etc.)
16th - 20th: Thanksgiving Related Items (stuffing, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie mix, gravy, etc.)*We will accept any non-perishable food during any of the weeks above.

THE HIGH SCHOOL PLAY ADDS A MATINEE ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5!
Due to demand, the high school play "A Midsummer Night's Dream" will add a third performance!  The show dates and times are Friday, December 4 at 7:00pm, and Saturday, December 5 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm. You and your family will not want to miss this hilarious romp through the forest with some unusual characters...including a Micheal Jackson impersonator, a Ghostbuster and Joe the Plumber!  Please see the attached ticket order form for information! 

Do you know someone in the high school play cast or crew?  Do you own a business or know someone who does?  Do you have a message you want to share with hundreds of people?  If so, considering buying space in the "Midsummer" program!  You can purchase one line in the program for only $2!  Or, you can buy a whole page and say whatever you wish!  Please see the attached advertisement order form! 

Fairies, lovers, royalty and peasants need YOU!  Adults - please consider volunteering to help with the high school play!  Please email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org. Thank you! 

We need your hangers and plastic shopping bags!  Please consider donating these to the play!  Email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org for information!  Thank you! 

High School Information Session:
On Thursday, November 12th, we will be hosting an Information Session for families.  Please help us by spreading the word by referring families from other schools (and reminding our own 8th grade families) who are interested in exploring Innovation Academy as a high school option.  Contact our Director of Admissions, Kathleen Feeney, kfeeney@innovationcharter.org, with any questions.  Additionally, if any parents would like to volunteer to serve on a parent panel that night, your presence would be greatly appreciated!

Come on, the contest has already started!
Coats for Kids wants you to donate coats to help people in need, both kids and adults.  It is a contest with other middle and elementary schools.  The drive begins immediately and ends on January 9, 2010.  There are prizes for the winning school, too.  One of the prizes last year was tickets to the IMAX Theater.  The coats will be cleaned by Anton’s Cleaners.  We want warm winter coats with no rips, holes, tears or stains.  Bring them in to school and put them on the coat rack that is located on the second floor of the middle school in front of the teachers’ mailboxes. If you have any questions be sure to speak to a member of HB Edelman. Thank you for your donations!   

Holiday Gift Cards:
IACA is happy to announce the Gift Cards are back! Gift Cards are sold at face value (no additional cost to you) and IACA receives a percentage of sales from the retailers. Categories include: Books & Music, Clothing & Accessories, Department Stores, Electronic & Office, Gas, Restaurants, Travel, Sporting Goods, Online & Catalog, Children & Teens, Grocery, Home Décor, Health & Beauty, Home Improvement, Specialty Stores and many more! With us you can do all your shopping at once and save you many trips to the mall!
 Please see the attached flyer and order form for information on this terrific program. If you would like to see a complete list of hundreds of available retailers – please visit glscrip.com.
If you have any questions, please contact Nichole Young at  nyoung@innovationcharter.com You can place as many orders as you need. Family and friends are welcome to order too. Thank you for your support and happy shopping!!

Program dates:
Order by Wednesday, November 11th - receive Wednesday, November 25th
Order by Wednesday, November 18th - receive Friday, December 4th
Order by Wednesday, December 2nd - receive Friday, December 18th

IACA – Game Day Tailgate Party!
Nov 8th Parking Lot Opens at 11:00am
Bring your WHOLE family for a tailgating party at the IACS school parking lot!  Pack your chairs, grills, footballs, soccer balls, radios, Frisbees and even your grandparents and join the fun! Grill your own food or let us cook for you!  At kickoff, everyone is invited to watch the game in the school auditorium on the BIG screen. This is a great opportunity to meet other IACA families and to hang out with our students. Volunteers are needed – please contact Janet Morris @ janetmorris1@comcast.net 
 
IACA Roller Skating Party!
Nov 17th (Early Release Day) 1:00-3:00 @ Roller Kingdom - Tyngsboro
Join your friends and family for a fun skating event! Admission is $6.00. Skates are available for rental ($3) or you can bring your own.  Hope to see you there!
Please click on the attachment below to view the flyer.   We hope you will consider joining us not only for a fun filled afternoon but as a way to raise funds for the IACS enrichment programs.

Looking to Volunteer?
The Board of Trustees Land and Facility Planning Committee is seeking a parent volunteer who is a civil engineer or has similar experience to provide guidance to the group.  While there are no plans for development of the property for school use or other wise at this time, the committee is working to best understand all possibilities.  Anyone interested that meets this criteria should contact Walter Landberg, Executive Director by email at wlandberg@innovationcharter.org or by phone at 978-649-0432, extension 2217.

Box Tops - HOMEBASE for the HOLIDAYS
THANKS to all who submitted Box Tops already this year! Our first submission has been sent and we expect a check for $262.50! (Yes - that's 2600 Box Tops and 5 Bonus Box Tops.)  Prizes have been placed in homebase mailboxes for distribution to students who participated in this individual contest.

I've heard from several folks who were waiting for a HOMEBASE (or Advisory) Contest - SO HERE IT IS! 
Box Tops HOMEBASE for the HOLIDAYS collection is ON!  Be sure to include your HOMEBASE (or Advisory) NAME with all Submissions in November and December.  On December 18th, we'll tally up the totals and award a HOLIDAY TREAT to the HOMEBASE and the ADVISORY who collected the MOST.  Bragging rights and homebase spirit are ON THE LINE!  A collection box is located on the table by the door just inside the cafeteria.

Planning on doing any ONLINE SHOPPING for the Holidays???  PLEASE Register at BTFE.COM to support Innovation Academy and then start your shopping there.  A portion of purchases from participating merchants will be AUTOMATICALLY added to our funds.  No coupons to clip, submission forms to send, or receipts to track.  Just register and then start your shopping from BTFE and you'll be supporting the school in a BIG WAY!
Happy Holidays from your Box Tops Coordinator!
Kate Conran
978-244-1244
kateconran@hotmail.com

Exciting Opportunity:
The IACS development team is looking for a parent or community volunteer to help lead the development, coordination, printing and maintenance of a quarterly magazine/newsletter on all things Innovation Academy.  The magazine will be sent out to family members and wider community members (external funders and partners, grandparents/parents, alumni, etc.) and will assist us in our efforts to spread the word about the excellent work that is being done at Innovation Academy.  Ideally, the individual will have experience working with Quark XPress or a similar magazine layout program and will have experience putting together similar publications.  We are also looking for writers and individuals willing to serve as the photographer for the magazine.  Anyone interested in helping to lead this and or get involved, should contact Walter Landberg, Executive Director. Wlandberg@innovationcharter.org or 978-649-0432 x2217

Upcoming Dates

No School: Wednesday November 11, 2009-Veternas Day
Information Session: Thursday, November 12, 2009 6:00 - 8:00
H1N1 flu Clinic: Tuesday, November 17, 2009

The Family Journal
The Weekly Newsletter of IACS-HS

Academic News

Learning Spotlight: Satellite Exhibition
It was wonderful to see so many families attending last night’s Satellite Exhibition Night in downtown Lowell.  Both high school and middle school students put on wonderful dramatic performances and it was amazing to see the student projects from previous years as well as many projects that are already underway for the new school year.  A special thanks to the many students, parents and faculty that made the event possible, most notably Jerry Beck (donated the space, publicized and planned the event, supported development of student artwork), Jim Coates (curated the artwork for the event), Ryan Ferdinand (publicized and planned the event, supported development of student artwork), Shari Whiman (catering and setup), The Beauchamps (setup support), Geraldine Miller (setup support), and the following students who dedicated hours of time installing projects: Emma Beauchamp, Kandace Boutin, Naomi Gossement, Ben Knight, Caitlyn Leedberg, Richele Miller, Math Whiman, Emily Jones, Zhenya Naka,  Adam Reilly, and Alec Willis.   Thanks to everyone who attended and contributed work to this wonderful night!

Parent Presence at Evening Events
Please note that all Exhibition Nights are considered to be community events which we ask parents to attend with their children.  Not only does the presence of our parent community provide a more varied audience for student work, it helps promote the community and family involvement that is an essential component to the culture of IACS.

PAC meeting
Thursday November 12th 6:30-7:30 pm in the Student Services Conference Room. 
The PAC purpose is to ensure that children with special needs in our school have the best school experience possible. It is about sharing information, ideas, resources and energy among school personnel and families with and without special needs children.

College Counseling
The weekly College Counseling newsletter is attached to the Family Journal..

Adjustments to Lateness and Dress Code Policy
Effective immediately, students who violate the dress code or are tardy to class 3 times in a month will receive an after school detention. 

More Donations Needed!
The Biology and Environmental Science Classes will be looking to reuse clean glass jars (baby food, salsa jars) and clean spray bottles for upcoming labs and projects.
Several classes and honors students will also need plant pots for projects.
Please drop them off next Tuesday thru Friday in the Science Room (B 53) or on Ms. Burtch's desk in the teachers' room.
Thanks!

The High School Play Needs Your Stuff!
Do you have these items around the house?  Would you be willing to donate them to the play?  Please contact rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org.  Thank you so much!
 
hangers
plastic shopping bags
bobby pins
hair elastics and barrettes
make-up
hair spray
ballet slippers
wigs
jewelry
king's crown
fairy wand
queen's tiara
animal and other creature costumes/ masks/ props
3 black top hats
Red "Harvard" T-shirt
Red "Harvard" hat
Construction Worker Hat and/ or Costume
Fireman Hat and/ or Costume
 

Society of Women Engineers
On Friday, November 13, the MITRE Corporation is hosting “Young Women in Engineering Day”. It’s a one-day workshop where they will experience the creativity and innovation of engineering and technology through hands-on activities and presentations. They will meet women engineers, see live demonstrations of real research, and hear first-hand about these exciting careers.

Event Details:
 Location: MITRE Corporation, S Building, 202 Burlington Road, Bedford, MA
Date: Friday, November 13, 2009
Time: 8:30AM - 2:00PM

More information can be found online at: http://www.mitre.org/public/ywie/
 Space is limited.  Please email Mr. Orpen if you would like to attend.

Beyond Benign Open House:
All freshman parents and students are invited to the Beyond Benign Open House on Thursday, November 5 from 5:30-8:30pm. The freshman that attend will be presenting art work that they have done to illustrate the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry. If you are planning to attend or would like more information, please RVSP with Ryan Ferdinand (rferdinand@innovationcharter.org) before November 3. Thank you! Please see attached flyer.
 
High School Service Culture Committee

 We are reaching out to our community of parents for an upcoming Service Day on February 25, 2009. We would love all suggestions or and support to help us make this day a success.

What we need:
•    A keynote speaker –someone who is involved in non-profit service based work.
•    At least 6-10 places where groups of our high school students can volunteer and therefore also establish long-term relationships for further service opportunities in the Greater Lowell area.
•    Parent chaperones
•    A panel of people who have done long-term service projects. Ideally, we would love the panel to be a combination of teaching staff and parents

If you are interested in helping us make this day a success, please contact Ryan Ferdinand (rferdinand@innovationcharter.org), Oliver Renau (orenau@innovationcharter.org) or Emily Porter (eporter@innovationcharter.org).

Thank you!


Extracurricular News

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM IS COMING TO THE IACS STAGE!
Save the Dates! 
Friday, December 4 and Saturday, December 5 at 7:00pm.  Tickets are $10 and selling out fast! (Ticket, Ad and DVD order forms were attached to last weeks Family Journal (10/23)).

We Need Adult Volunteers For the Play!
Adults:  If you think you may be interested in helping with the play in any area, please email acottle@innovationcharter.org.  We need adult volunteers for tech, stage management, costumes, props, hair, make-up, programs, publicity, etc.  Please consider lending a hand in any area!

Families of Cast Members: 
The cast has received a rehearsal schedule, contract and script by email.  Please email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org if you would like to be added to the email list for such communications.  Cast members are required to attend all listed rehearsals.

Athletic News & Events:
High School Basketball Sign-ups/Tryouts**
Dates: November 16th – 25th (1.5 weeks)
Location: Athletics/wellness bulletin board in the 1st floor hallway in the middle school. 
Paperwork*: All required paperwork is turned in BEFORE tryouts begin.
Tryouts: Begin Monday, November 30th
* - Athletes will not be eligible to tryout if paperwork is not turned in.  No exceptions.  Do not wait, get it done NOW!

MEDICATION IN SCHOOL REMINDER:
Please be mindful that students are not allowed to carry  any medications on themselves at school unless the health office has received the “Prescription Medication Form” signed by both a physician and a parent and the health office has approved the request. This form must be signed and updated each school year. This is a state law.  If you have any questions please call the health office at x2104.  Thank-you for your cooperation in this very important safety matter.

The Community Volunteering High School Choice Block is conducting a food drive:
The Community Volunteering High School Choice Block is conducting a food drive throughout the month of November and will be sending the donated goods to the Merrimack Valley Food Pantry, where we have been volunteering. Each week in November is dedicated to a different good.
2nd - 6th: Canned or Boxed Food
9th - 13th: Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, diapers, shampoo, soap, etc.)
16th - 20th: Thanksgiving Related Items (stuffing, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie mix, gravy, etc.)
*We will accept any non-perishable food during any of the weeks above.


Family News

IACA – Game Day Tailgate Party!
Nov 8th Parking Lot Opens at 11:00am
Bring your WHOLE family for a tailgating party at the IACS school parking lot!  Pack your chairs, grills, footballs, soccer balls, radios, Frisbees and even your grandparents and join the fun! Grill your own food or let us cook for you!  At kickoff, everyone is invited to watch the game in the school auditorium on the BIG screen. This is a great opportunity to meet other IACA families and to hang out with our students. Volunteers are needed – please contact Janet Morris @ janetmorris1@comcast.net 
 

IACA Roller Skating Party!
Nov 17th (Early Release Day) 1:00-3:00 @ Roller Kingdom - Tyngsboro
Join your friends and family for a fun skating event! Admission is $6.00. Skates are available for rental ($3) or you can bring your own.  Hope to see you there!
Please click on the attachment below to view the flyer.   We hope you will consider joining us not only for a fun filled afternoon but as a way to raise funds for the IACS enrichment programs.

The Scholastic Book Fair:
The Scholastic Book Fair was a great success. IACA had $5,056.65 in sales with a cash profit of $1,264.16. In addition, our Scholastic Bonuses came to $878.50! Thank you Corine Mazza, all the volunteers & parents for your time, efforts and contributions- it truly paid off.

A Safety Message From the Facilities Manager:
Please do not to use a cell phone on school grounds while operating a vehicle.
Please keep all eyes on the road as there are students and staff in the parking areas directing traffic or crossing.  Also, we ask that while your vehicle is parked that you please shut off your engine to help reduce the emissions output.

Possible H1N1 Clinic at IACS:
The Health Office is currently working with the Tyngsboro Board of Health to hold a H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine clinic here to IACS on November 17th, 2009.  The clinic would be for high school students.  A parental consent form will be sent home shortly with the high school students.  No student will be able to receive the vaccine without parental consent.  As with any flu clinic this year, the running of the clinic will depend on whether the town of Tyngsboro receives their allotted vaccine by the November 17th date.   In the meantime, if you would like your student to receive the H1N1 vaccine and have the opportunity to receive it prior to our November 17th date, I would suggest that you take advantage of that.  We will keep you posted.

Looking to Volunteer?
The Board of Trustees Land and Facility Planning Committee is seeking a parent volunteer who is a civil engineer or has similar experience to provide guidance to the group.  While there are no plans for development of the property for school use or other wise at this time, the committee is working to best understand all possibilities.  Anyone interested that meets this criteria should contact Walter Landberg, Executive Director by email at wlandberg@innovationcharter.org or by phone at 978-649-0432, extension 2217.

Unique Volunteer Opportunity for Experienced Carpenters
Our school library needs more shelf space to support the library needs of our expanding school. We are looking for an experienced carpenter(s) to volunteer their time to build wall-mounted bookcases that will complement the existing ones in our beautiful library. The school is offering to pay for the construction materials. All you need to supply is your experience, time and skill! This is a unique opportunity to contribute to our school in a very visible and lasting way.
If you would like to help or would like more information, please contact our library volunteer, Carol Gallagher, at cagallagher@comcast.net or 978-256-3029

TRICK-OR-TREAT with Box Tops!
 October marks the first Box Tops submission deadline for the school year - so we want to be sure we gather up ALL those box tops folks have been saving over the summer.  Send in your Box Tops to either the office or the collection box in the lunch room.  BE SURE to include your NAME AND HOMEBASE/ADVISORY with your submission.  We'll reward all contributions with a small (non-food) "treat" to recoognize you for your efforts.
 Also - a reminder to register on BoxTopsForEducation.Com.  They have a terrific SHOP option that earns money for the school when you start your online shopping at BTFE.COM.  No coupons to clip, receipts to save, or refunds to submit .  Simply register, start your online shopping at BTFE, and the school will automatically recieve a percentage of your purchase in cash!
 If you have any questions or suggestions - contact Kate Conran 978-244-1244 kateconran@hotmail.com
 THANKS for your participation in this program!

Exciting Opportunity:
The IACS development team is looking for a parent or community volunteer to help lead the development, coordination, printing and maintenance of a quarterly magazine/newsletter on all things Innovation Academy.  The magazine will be sent out to family members and wider community members (external funders and partners, grandparents/parents, alumni, etc.) and will assist us in our efforts to spread the word about the excellent work that is being done at Innovation Academy.  Ideally, the individual will have experience working with Quark XPress or a similar magazine layout program and will have experience putting together similar publications.  We are also looking for writers and individuals willing to serve as the photographer for the magazine.  Anyone interested in helping to lead this and or get involved, should contact Walter Landberg, Executive Director. Wlandberg@innovationcharter.org or 978-649-0432 x2217

Just a reminder if your child is out sick…..
If your child is sick, please have them stay home from school until free of fever (100.4 degrees F) without the use of fever-reducing medicine for 24 hours. In addition, when calling the school to report their absence please indicate if your child has or has had a fever of 100.4 degrees F or greater.  This is very helpful information as we try to keep track of students with flu-like symptoms.  Thank you for your cooperation in this very important matter.

Society of Women Engineers

On Friday, November 13, the MITRE Corporation is hosting “Young Women in Engineering Day”. It’s a one-day workshop where they will experience the creativity and innovation  of engineering and technology through hands-on activities and presentations. They will meet women engineers, see live demonstrations of real research, and hear  first-hand about these exciting careers.  Please see the flyer attached.

 

Event Details:

 Location: MITRE Corporation, S Building, 202 Burlington Road, Bedford, MA

Date: Friday, November 13, 2009

Time: 8:30AM - 2:00PM

 More information can be found online at: http://www.mitre.org/public/ywie/

 Space is limited.  Please email Mr. Orpen if you would like to attend.

 

Beyond Benign Open House: All freshman parents and students are invited to the Beyond Benign Open House on Thursday, November 5 from 5:30-8:30pm. The freshman that attend will be presenting art work that they have done to illustrate the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry. If you are planning to attend or would like more information, please RVSP with Ryan Ferdinand (rferdinand@innovationcharter.org) before November 3. Thank you! Please see attached flyer.

 

 

Extracurricular News

 

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM IS COMING TO THE IACS STAGE!

Save the Dates!  Friday, December 4 and Saturday, December 5 at 7:00pm.  Tickets are $10 and selling out fast!

 

We Need Adult Volunteers For the Play!

Adults:  If you think you may be interested in helping with the play in any area, please email acottle@innovationcharter.org.  We need adult volunteers for tech, stage management, costumes, props, hair, make-up, programs, publicity, etc.  Please consider lending a hand in any area!

 

Families of Cast Members:  The cast has received a rehearsal schedule, contract and script by email.  Please email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org if you would like to be added to the email list for such communications.  Cast members are required to attend all listed rehearsals.

 

 

The High School Outdoor Adventure Club:

We are seeking enthusiastic adults who would like to volunteer on various outdoor trips. If you are interested in an adventure and learning how to be a part of this new club, please contact Michael Hvizda at routedaventures@gmail.com

 

 

Athletic News/Basketball Tryouts :

Access our NEW Athletics website from the Innovation Academy Charter School home-page for more information.  Click “Athletics” on the drop-down menu.

This week in sports:

-Schedules are subject to change.  Please refer to website for more up-to-date information.

 

HS Girls Soccer*

10/23 @ Chelmsford High School – 4:00pm

10/24 vs. TYS @ Bridgemeadow Fields (Tyngsboro) – 2:30pm

* - Any day during the week when there is no game scheduled, practice will take place as usual UNLESS otherwise specified by your coach.

 

Athletic News & Events:

High School Basketball Sign-ups/Tryouts**

Dates: November 16^th – 25^th (1.5 weeks)

Location: Athletics/wellness bulletin board in the 1^st floor hallway in the middle school. 

Paperwork*: All required paperwork is turned in BEFORE tryouts begin.

Tryouts: Begin Monday, November 30^th

* - Athletes will not be eligible to tryout if paperwork is not turned in.  No exceptions.  Do not wait, get it done NOW!

 

MEDICATION IN SCHOOL REMINDER:

Please be mindful that students are not allowed to carry  any medications on themselves at school unless the health office has received the “Prescription Medication Form” signed by both a physician and a parent and the health office has approved the request. This form must be signed and updated each school year. This is a state law.  If you have any questions please call the health office at x2104.  Thank-you for your cooperation in this very important safety matter.

 

 

Family News

 

Looking to Volunteer?

The Board of Trustees Land and Facility Planning Committee is seeking a parent volunteer who is a civil engineer or has similar experience to provide guidance to the group.  While there are no plans for development of the property for school use or other wise at this time, the committee is working to best understand all possibilities.  Anyone interested that meets this criteria should contact Walter Landberg, Executive Director by email at wlandberg@innovationcharter.org or by phone at 978-649-0432, extension 2217.

 

 

Unique Volunteer Opportunity for Experienced Carpenters

Our school library needs more shelf space to support the library needs of our expanding school. We are looking for an experienced carpenter(s) to volunteer their time to build wall-mounted bookcases that will complement the existing ones in our beautiful library. The school is offering to pay for the construction materials. All you need to supply is your experience, time and skill! This is a unique opportunity to contribute to our school in a very visible and lasting way.

If you would like to help or would like more information, please contact our library volunteer, Carol Gallagher, at cagallagher@comcast.net or 978-256-3029

 

TRICK-OR-TREAT with Box Tops!

 October marks the first Box Tops submission deadline for the school year - so we want to be sure we gather up ALL those box tops folks have been saving over the summer.  Send in your Box Tops to either the office or the collection box in the lunch room.  BE SURE to include your NAME AND HOMEBASE/ADVISORY with your submission.  We'll reward all contributions with a small (non-food) "treat" to recoognize you for your efforts.

 Also - a reminder to register on BoxTopsForEducation.Com.  They have a terrific SHOP option that earns money for the school when you start your online shopping at BTFE.COM.  No coupons to clip, receipts to save, or refunds to submit .  Simply register, start your online shopping at BTFE, and the school will automatically recieve a percentage of your purchase in cash!

 If you have any questions or suggestions - contact Kate Conran 978-244-1244 kateconran@hotmail.com

 THANKS for your participation in this program!

 

Exciting Opportunity:

The IACS development team is looking for a parent or community volunteer to help lead the development, coordination, printing and maintenance of a quarterly magazine/newsletter on all things Innovation Academy.  The magazine will be sent out to family members and wider community members (external funders and partners, grandparents/parents, alumni, etc.) and will assist us in our efforts to spread the word about the excellent work that is being done at Innovation Academy.  Ideally, the individual will have experience working with Quark XPress or a similar magazine layout program and will have experience putting together similar publications.  We are also looking for writers and individuals willing to serve as the photographer for the magazine.  Anyone interested in helping to lead this and or get involved, should contact Walter Landberg, Executive Director. Wlandberg@innovationcharter.org or 978-649-0432 x2217

 

Just a reminder if your child is out sick…..

If your child is sick, please have them stay home from school until free of fever (100.4 degrees F) without the use of fever-reducing medicine for 24 hours. In addition, when calling the school to report their absence please indicate if your child has or has had a fever of 100.4 degrees F or greater.  This is very helpful information as we try to keep track of students with flu-like symptoms.  Thank you for your cooperation in this very important matter.

 

 

Upcoming Dates

Half day Tuesday October 27^th 12:15 dismissal

The Family Journal

The Weekly Newsletter of IACS-HS

 

Academic News

 

Sustainability Day:  October 20^th

 

On Tuesday, October 20^th the High School Science Department is sponsoring our first Sustainability Day.   We are in the process of bringing in guest speakers and activities that will teach kids about environmental issues, “green” technologies, and other topics that help raise awareness about sustainability.  If you know anyone who with experience working in environmental fields and would be willing to share their experiences with students, please have them email Scott Cloutier or Kellie Burtch.

 

Innovation Lands in Lowell

 

When: Thursday Night, October 29^th 6-9 PM

 

Where: 22 Shattuck Street in the center of Lowell’s Historic Arts and Cultural District.  Plenty of parking, including Enterprise Bank parking off Middle Street.

 

Innovation Academy Charter School is having a exhibition and performance night, which will highlight some of the best student projects over the last two years. Curated by UMASS Lowell Art Professor Jim Coates, this satellite project will celebrate the amazing talents of our students. Please come and celebrate! 

 

For more information contact Ryan Ferdinand (rferdinand@innovationcharter.org) or Jerry Beck (jbeck@innovationcharter.org)

 

College Counseling

The weekly College Counseling newsletter is attached to the Family Journal.  Also attached is an updated list of the colleges that will be coming to visit our campus this fall.

 

More Donations Needed!

The Biology and Environmental Science Classes will be looking to reuse clean glass jars (baby food, salsa jars) and clean spray bottles for upcoming labs and projects.

Several classes and honors students will also be needing plant pots for projects.

Please drop them off next Tuesday thru Friday in the Science Room (B 53) or on Ms. Burtch's desk in the teachers' room.

Thanks!

 

 

Society of Women Engineers

 

On Thursday,  October 22^nd there will be a meeting open to all high school girls who are considering a career in science.   The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) is a professional organization that does outreach to high schools by matching students with SWE members in the workforce.  This organization offers students an opportunity to see what careers are available in engineering.  If you are interested in attending this information session about this great opportunity please email Bryn Dews @ dewskb@yahoo.com

 

On Friday, November 13, the MITRE Corporation is hosting “Young Women in Engineering Day”. It’s a one-day workshop where they will experience the creativity and innovation  of engineering and technology through hands-on activities and presentations. They will meet women engineers, see live demonstrations of real research, and hear  first-hand about these exciting careers.

 

Event Details:

 

Location: MITRE Corporation, S Building, 202 Burlington Road, Bedford, MA

Date: Friday, November 13, 2009

Time: 8:30AM - 2:00PM

 

 

More information can be found online at: http://www.mitre.org/public/ywie/

 

Space is limited.  Please email Mr. Orpen if you would like to attend.

 

 

Extracurricular News

 

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM IS COMING TO THE IACS STAGE!

Save the Dates!  Friday, December 4 and Saturday, December 5 at 7:00pm.  Tickets are $10 and are now available!  Watch upcoming newsletters for more information!

 

We Need Adult Volunteers For the Play!

Adults:  If you think you may be interested in helping with the play in any area, please email Ann Cottle, acottle@innovationcharter.org.  We need adult volunteers for tech, stage management, costumes, props, hair, make-up, programs, publicity, etc.  Please consider lending a hand in any area!

 

Families of Cast Members:  The cast has received a rehearsal schedule, contract and script by email.  Please email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org if you would like to be added to the email list for such communications.  Cast members are required to attend all listed rehearsals.

 

The High School Outdoor Adventure Club:

We are seeking enthusiastic adults who would like to volunteer on various outdoor trips. If you are interested in an adventure and learning how to be a part of this new club, please contact Michael Hvizda at routedaventures@gmail.com

 

Athletic News/Basketball Tryouts :

 

Access our NEW Athletics website from the Innovation Academy Charter School home-page for more information.  Click “Athletics” on the drop-down menu.

 

This week in sports:

-Schedules are subject to change.  Please refer to website for more up-to-date information.

HS Boys Soccer*

10/20 @ Dracut High School – 4:00pm (cont. on next page)

10/22 @ Nashoba Valley Technical High School – 4:30pm

 

HS Girls Soccer*

10/23 @ Chelmsford High School – 4:00pm

10/24 vs. TYS @ Bridgemeadow Fields (Tyngsboro) – 2:30pm

* - Any day during the week when there is no game scheduled, practice will take place as usual UNLESS otherwise specified by your coach.

 

Athletic News & Events:

INTEREST MEETING –

Who?: All 7/8 & HS boys and girls interested in playing basketball for IACS

Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Time: 3:10-3:30pm

Where?: High school – room B-53

What?: Plan to attend, as important information will be presented.

High School Basketball Sign-ups/Tryouts**

Dates: November 16^th – 25^th (1.5 weeks)

Location: Athletics/wellness bulletin board in the 1^st floor hallway in the middle school. 

Paperwork*: All required paperwork is turned in BEFORE tryouts begin.

Tryouts: Begin Monday, November 30^th

* - Athletes will not be eligible to tryout if paperwork is not turned in.  No exceptions.  Do not wait, get it done NOW!

 

 

SAVE THE DATE!!!!  IACS SCHOOL SPIRIT NIGHT:

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21^st 6:30 -8:30 PM

This will be a great event for folks of all ages, so invite your families, parents, siblings, teachers and friends to come out for an evening of music and entertainment!  Held in the IACS Auditorium, there will be trivia and prizes, with live musical entertainment performed by Jim Zaroulis and Dave Ayotte. Come join the fun!  Tickets are just $2, BUT SEATING IS LIMITED!  You can purchase your tickets during lunch from the main office or complete the ticket flyer that is attached to this weeks Family Journal and return it to the office.  You can also contact Ellen DiPasquale with questions or for further information 978-479-9778, etdipasquale@comcast.net.  We look forward to seeing you there.

 

 

Family News

 

 

 

Looking to Volunteer?

The Board of Trustees Land and Facility Planning Committee is seeking a parent volunteer who is a civil engineer or has similar experience to provide guidance to the group.  While there are no plans for development of the property for school use or other wise at this time, the committee is working to best understand all possibilities.  Anyone interested that meets this criteria should contact Walter Landberg, Executive Director by email at wlandberg@innovationcharter.org or by phone at 978-649-0432, extension 2217.

 

 

A Note from The IACA:

The IACA (community association) encourages all IACS families to have at least one parent fill out a CORI form as soon as possible.  The CORI forms are good for 3 years so, if you have filled one out in the last two years AT THIS SCHOOL, you are all set.  As you know, the school handbook requires families to volunteer each year.    Many parents enjoy volunteering at student socials. Cori’s can be found on the schools website under the FORMS link.

 

If your child attends IACS, you are already a member of the IACA.   Our next meeting is on Wednesday, October 14th in the dining room.  All members of the IACS community are welcome to attend.

 

 

TRICK-OR-TREAT with Box Tops!

 October marks the first Box Tops submission deadline for the school year - so we want to be sure we gather up ALL those box tops folks have been saving over the summer.  Send in your Box Tops to either the office or the collection box in the lunch room.  BE SURE to include your NAME AND HOMEBASE/ADVISORY with your submission.  We'll reward all contributions with a small (non-food) "treat" to recoognize you for your efforts.

 Also - a reminder to register on BoxTopsForEducation.Com.  They have a terrific SHOP option that earns money for the school when you start your online shopping at BTFE.COM.  No coupons to clip, receipts to save, or refunds to submit .  Simply register, start your online shopping at BTFE, and the school will automatically recieve a percentage of your purchase in cash!

 If you have any questions or suggestions - contact Kate Conran 978-244-1244 kateconran@hotmail.com

 THANKS for your participation in this program!

 

Just a reminder if your child is out sick…..

If your child is sick, please have them stay home from school until free of fever (100.4 degrees F) without the use of fever-reducing medicine for 24 hours. In addition, when calling the school to report their absence please indicate if your child has or has had a fever of 100.4 degrees F or greater.  This is very helpful information as we try to keep track of students with flu-like symptoms.  Thank you for your cooperation in this very important matter.

 

 

Upcoming Dates

October 20                         Sustainability Day

The Family Journal
The Weekly Newsletter of IACS-HS


Sustainability Day:  October 20th

On Tuesday, October 20th the High School Science Department is sponsoring our first Sustainability Day.   We are in the process of bringing in guest speakers and activities that will teach kids about environmental issues, “green” technologies, and other topics that help raise awareness about sustainability.  If you know anyone who with experience working in environmental fields and would be willing to share their experiences with students, please have them email Scott Cloutier or Kellie Burtch.

Innovation Lands in Lowell

When: Thursday Night, October 29th 6-9 PM

Where: 22 Shattuck Street in the center of Lowell’s Historic Arts and Cultural District.  Plenty of parking, including Enterprise Bank parking off Middle Street.

Innovation Academy Charter School is having a exhibition and performance night, which will highlight some of the best student projects over the last two years. Curated by UMASS Lowell Art Professor Jim Coates, this satellite project will celebrate the amazing talents of our students. Please come and celebrate!  

For more information contact Ryan Ferdinand (rferdinand@innovationcharter.org) or Jerry Beck (jbeck@innovationcharter.org)

College Counseling
The weekly College Counseling newsletter is attached to the Family Journal.  Also attached is an updated list of the colleges that will be coming to visit our campus this fall.

Donations Needed!
The High School Art Department is making a big effort this year to incorporate as much recycling into art making as possible. We need the following items that you might have and not want any longer!!
➢    30 Large - XLarge Men's long sleeve dress shirts (these make great smocks!)
➢    Clean glass baby food jars with lids
➢    Magazines
➢    Newspapers
➢    Clean 20 oz Gatorade/Powerade bottles with lids. These bottles are made out of a much thicker plastic than water bottles, so they work very well for storing paint.
➢    FURNITURE!! - Have you been holding on to a small end table or coffee table that is made out of wood and could be transformed into a beautiful art piece? If so...please contact Ryan Ferdinand at rferdinand@innovationcharter.org!

More Donations Needed!
The Biology and Environmental Science Classes will be looking to reuse clean glass jars (baby food, salsa jars) and clean spray bottles for upcoming labs and projects.
Several classes and honors students will also be needing plant pots for projects.
Please drop them off next Tuesday thru Friday in the Science Room (B 53) or on Ms. Burtch's desk in the teachers' room.
Thanks!

Society of Women Engineers

On Thursday,  October 22nd there will be a meeting open to all high school girls who are considering a career in science.   The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) is a professional organization that does outreach to high schools by matching students with SWE members in the workforce.  This organization offers students an opportunity to see what careers are available in engineering.  If you are interested in attending this information session about this great opportunity please email Bryn Dews @ dewskb@yahoo.com




High School Dance:   The High School will be holding its first dance of the year on Friday October 16th, from 7 - 10 pm.  Tickets are $5.

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM IS COMING TO THE IACS STAGE!
Save the Dates!  Friday, December 4 and Saturday, December 5 at 7:00pm.  Tickets are $10 and will be available for sale soon!  Watch upcoming newsletters for more information!

We Need Adult Volunteers For the Play!
Adults:  If you think you may be interested in helping with the play in any area, please email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org.  We need adult volunteers for tech, stage management, costumes, props, hair, make-up, programs, publicity, etc.  Please consider lending a hand in any area!
Families of Cast Members:  The cast has received a rehearsal schedule, contract and script by email.  Please email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org if you would like to be added to the email list for such communications.  Cast members are required to attend all listed rehearsals.

The High School Outdoor Adventure Club:
We are seeking enthusiastic adults who would like to volunteer on various outdoor trips. If you are interested in an adventure and learning how to be a part of this new club, please contact Michael Hvizda at routedaventures@gmail.com

Athletic News/Basketball Tryouts : All high school boys and girls interested in playing basketball for the IACS high school basketball teams this winter season should write their name on the sign-up lists located on the athletics/wellness bulletin board in the 1st floor hallway.  The sign-up lists will be posted beginning November 16th.  Tryouts will begin after school at 3:30pm on November 30th.
** All athletes need to make sure all paperwork is up-to-date and on file.  Paperwork includes a current physical exam form (turned into the Nurse’s office) AND a parent permission slip (available from & turned in to Mr. Lenter, the Athletic Director).  You will not be allowed to tryout until both forms are turned in.  Don’t wait, get it done NOW!

SAVE THE DATE!!!!  IACS SCHOOL SPIRIT NIGHT:
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21st 6:30 -8:30 PM
This will be a great event for folks of all ages, so invite your families, parents, siblings, teachers and friends to come out for an evening of music and entertainment!  Held in the IACS Auditorium, there will be trivia and prizes, with live musical entertainment performed by Jim Zaroulis and Dave Ayotte. Come join the fun!  Tickets are just $2, BUT SEATING IS LIMITED!  You can purchase your tickets during lunch from the main office or complete the ticket flyer that is attached to this weeks Connection/Family Journal and return it to the office.  You can also contact Ellen DiPasquale with questions or for further information 978-479-9778, etdipasquale@comcast.net.  We look forward to seeing you there.



Looking to Volunteer?
The Board of Trustees Land and Facility Planning Committee is seeking a parent volunteer who is a civil engineer or has similar experience to provide guidance to the group.  While there are no plans for development of the property for school use or other wise at this time, the committee is working to best understand all possibilities.  Anyone interested that meets this criteria should contact Walter Landberg, Executive Director by email at wlandberg@innovationcharter.org or by phone at 978-649-0432, extension 2217.


A Note from The IACA:
The IACA (community association) encourages all IACS families to have at least one parent fill out a CORI form as soon as possible.  The CORI forms are good for 3 years so, if you have filled one out in the last two years AT THIS SCHOOL, you are all set.  As you know, the school handbook requires families to volunteer each year.    Many parents enjoy volunteering at student socials. Cori’s can be found on the schools website under the FORMS link.

If your child attends IACS, you are already a member of the IACA.   Our next meeting is on Wednesday, October 14th in the dining room.  All members of the IACS community are welcome to attend.


TRICK-OR-TREAT with Box Tops!
 October marks the first Box Tops submission deadline for the school year - so we want to be sure we gather up ALL those box tops folks have been saving over the summer.  Send in your Box Tops to either the office or the collection box in the lunch room.  BE SURE to include your NAME AND HOMEBASE/ADVISORY with your submission.  We'll reward all contributions with a small (non-food) "treat" to recoognize you for your efforts.
 Also - a reminder to register on BoxTopsForEducation.Com.  They have a terrific SHOP option that earns money for the school when you start your online shopping at BTFE.COM.  No coupons to clip, receipts to save, or refunds to submit .  Simply register, start your online shopping at BTFE, and the school will automatically recieve a percentage of your purchase in cash!
 If you have any questions or suggestions - contact Kate Conran 978-244-1244 kateconran@hotmail.com
 THANKS for your participation in this program!

Just a reminder if your child is out sick…..
If your child is sick, please have them stay home from school until free of fever (100.4 degrees F) without the use of fever-reducing medicine for 24 hours. In addition, when calling the school to report their absence please indicate if your child has or has had a fever of 100.4 degrees F or greater.  This is very helpful information as we try to keep track of students with flu-like symptoms.  Thank you for your cooperation in this very important matter.


Upcoming Dates
October 12        No School (Columbus Day)
October 14        PSAT for 10th and 11th grade students
October 20        Sustainability Day
October 29        Satellite Exhibition at 22 Shattuck Street, Lowell

The Family Journal

The Weekly Newsletter of IACS-HS

 

Academic News

 

Sustainability Day:  October 20^th

 

On Thursday, October 20^th the High School Science Department is sponsoring our first Sustainability Day.   We are in the process of bringing in guest speakers and activities that will teach kids about environmental issues, “green” technologies, and other topics that help raise awareness about sustainability.  If you know anyone who with experience working in environmental fields and would be willing to share their experiences with students, please have them email Scott Cloutier (scloutier@innovationcharter.org) or Kellie Burtch (kburtch@innovationcharter.org)

Innovation Lands in Lowell

 

When: Thursday Night, October 29^th 6-9 PM

 

Where: 22 Shattuck Street in the center of Lowell’s Historic Arts and Cultural District.  Plenty of parking, including Enterprise Bank parking off Middle Street.

 

Innovation Academy Charter School is having a exhibition and performance night, which will highlight some of the best student projects over the last two years. Curated by UMASS Lowell Art Professor Jim Coates, this satellite project will celebrate the amazing talents of our students. Please come and celebrate!  

 

For more information contact Ryan Ferdinand (rferdinand@innovationcharter.org) or Jerry Beck (jbeck@innovationcharter.org)

 

College Counseling

The weekly College Counseling newsletter is attached to the Family Journal.  Also attached is an updated list of the colleges that will be coming to visit our campus this fall.

 

Donations Needed!

The High School Art Department is making a big effort this year to incorporate as much recycling into art making as possible. We need the following items that you might have and not want any longer!!

Ø    30 Large - XLarge Men's long sleeve dress shirts (these make great smocks!)

Ø    Clean glass baby food jars with lids

Ø    Magazines

Ø    Newspapers

Ø    Clean 20 oz Gatorade/Powerade bottles with lids. These bottles are made out of a much thicker plastic than water bottles, so they work very well for storing paint.

Ø    FURNITURE!! - Have you been holding on to a small end table or coffee table that is made out of wood and could be transformed into a beautiful art piece? If so...please contact Ryan Ferdinand at rferdinand@innovationcharter.org!

 

Society of Women Engineers

 

On Thursday,  October 22^nd there will be a meeting open to all high school girls who are considering a career in science.   The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) is a professional organization that does outreach to high schools by matching students with SWE members in the workforce.  This organization offers students an opportunity to see what careers are available in engineering.  If you are interested in attending this information session about this great opportunity please email Bryn Dews @ dewskb@yahoo.com

 

Extracurricular News

 

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM IS COMING TO THE IACS STAGE!

Save the Dates!  Friday, December 4 and Saturday, December 5 at 7:00pm.  Tickets are $10 and will be available for sale soon!  Watch upcoming newsletters for more information!

 

We Need Adult Volunteers For the Play!

Adults:  If you think you may be interested in helping with the play in any area, please email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org.  We need adult volunteers for tech, stage management, costumes, props, hair, make-up, programs, publicity, etc.  Please consider lending a hand in any area!

Families of Cast Members:  The cast has received a rehearsal schedule, contract and script by email.  Please email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org if you would like to be added to the email list for such communications.  Cast members are required to attend all listed rehearsals.

 

The High School Outdoor Adventure Club:

We are seeking enthusiastic adults who would like to volunteer on various outdoor trips. If you are interested in an adventure and learning how to be a part of this new club, please contact Michael Hvizda at routedaventures@gmail.com

 

Athletic News/Basketball Tryouts : All high school boys and girls interested in playing basketball for the IACS high school basketball teams this winter season should write their name on the sign-up lists located on the athletics/wellness bulletin board in the 1^st floor hallway.  The sign-up lists will be posted beginning November 16^th.  Tryouts will begin after school at 3:30pm on November 30^th.

** All athletes need to make sure all paperwork is up-to-date and on file.  Paperwork includes a current physical exam form (turned into the Nurse’s office) AND a parent permission slip (available from & turned in to Mr. Lenter, the Athletic Director).  You will not be allowed to tryout until both forms are turned in.  Don’t wait, get it done NOW!

 

Family News

 

 

Picture Day:

School Picture Day is coming up on Friday, October 9^th.  Today, students will bring home envelopes that may be used to order pictures.  All students will have their picture taken regardless of whether pictures are being purchased.  Students who wish to purchase school IDs may do so at a cost of $2.00.

 

Looking to Volunteer?

The Board of Trustees Land and Facility Planning Committee is seeking a parent volunteer who is a civil engineer or has similar experience to provide guidance to the group.  While there are no plans for development of the property for school use or other wise at this time, the committee is working to best understand all possibilities.  Anyone interested that meets this criteria should contact Walter Landberg, Executive Director by email at wlandberg@innovationcharter.org or by phone at 978-649-0432, extension 2217.

 

 

A Note from The IACA:

The IACA (community association) encourages all IACS families to have at least one parent fill out a CORI form as soon as possible.  The CORI forms are good for 3 years so, if you have filled one out in the last two years AT THIS SCHOOL, you are all set.  As you know, the school handbook requires families to volunteer each year.    Many parents enjoy volunteering at student socials. Cori’s can be found on the schools website under the FORMS link.

 

If your child attends IACS, you are already a member of the IACA.   Our next meeting is on Wednesday, October 14th in the dining room.  All members of the IACS community are welcome to attend.

 

 

TRICK-OR-TREAT with Box Tops!

 October marks the first Box Tops submission deadline for the school year - so we want to be sure we gather up ALL those box tops folks have been saving over the summer.  Send in your Box Tops to either the office or the collection box in the lunch room.  BE SURE to include your NAME AND HOMEBASE/ADVISORY with your submission.  We'll reward all contributions with a small (non-food) "treat" to recoognize you for your efforts.

 Also - a reminder to register on BoxTopsForEducation.Com.  They have a terrific SHOP option that earns money for the school when you start your online shopping at BTFE.COM.  No coupons to clip, receipts to save, or refunds to submit .  Simply register, start your online shopping at BTFE, and the school will automatically recieve a percentage of your purchase in cash!

 If you have any questions or suggestions - contact Kate Conran 978-244-1244 kateconran@hotmail.com

 THANKS for your participation in this program!

 

Just a reminder if your child is out sick…..

If your child is sick, please have them stay home from school until free of fever (100.4 degrees F) without the use of fever-reducing medicine for 24 hours. In addition, when calling the school to report their absence please indicate if your child has or has had a fever of 100.4 degrees F or greater.  This is very helpful information as we try to keep track of students with flu-like symptoms.  Thank you for your cooperation in this very important matter.

 

 

Upcoming Dates

October 6                        Early Release (12:15)

October 8                        PLAN (Pre-ACT) for 10^th and 11^th grade students

October 9                        Picture Day

October 12                        No School (Columbus Day)

October 14                        PSAT for 10^th and 11^th grade students

October 20                         Sustainability Day

The Family Journal
The Weekly Newsletter of IACS-HS

News and Happenings


X2 Training Session:
One additional X2 training session ahs been added on October 2nd, from 7:30 – 8:00 am. Please email Sasha Douglas (sdouglas@innovationcharter.org) if you are interested in attending.


Back to School Night:
Mark your calendars for Back to School Night, Thursday, October 1st, 6:00-7:30pm. 

Picture Day:
School Picture Day is coming up on Friday, October 9th.  Today, students will bring home envelopes that may be used to order pictures.  Pictures can also be ordered online at www.coffeepond.com.    All students will have their picture taken regardless of whether pictures are being purchased.  Students who wish to purchase school IDs may do so at a cost of $2.00.

College Counseling
The weekly College Counseling newsletter is attached to the Family Journal.

PSAT & PLAN
Testing Fee: If you have not already paid the $26.00 testing fee, please send this to Ms. Warren’s attention as soon as possible.  If you concerned bout your ability to pay the fee, please contact Ms. Warren directly at jwarren@innovationcharter.org.


Athletic News/Basketball Tryouts : All high school boys and girls interested in playing basketball for the IACS high school basketball teams this winter season should write their name on the sign-up lists located on the athletics/wellness bulletin board in the 1st floor hallway.  The sign-up lists will be posted beginning November 16th.  Tryouts will begin after school at 3:30pm on November 30th.

** All athletes need to make sure all paperwork is up-to-date and on file.  Paperwork includes a current physical exam form (turned into the Nurse’s office) AND a parent permission slip (available from & turned in to Mr. Lenter, the Athletic Director).  You will not be allowed to tryout until both forms are turned in.  Don’t wait, get it done NOW!
Book Fair is back! It will run 9/28-10/1. Please have your child check with their advisor to see when they will be visiting the book fair.


Fall Book Fair Next Week

The Scholastic Fall Book Fair is here! The fair is run by the IACA (Innovation Academy Community Association) and will be open September 28^th to October 2^nd. The Book Fair provides a wide variety of books available for purchase. The fair is an important fundraiser for the IACA to help supplement Enrichment Programs and provide new books for the library.

 

Students will attend the fair with their classmates at a pre-scheduled time during the week. Students can also drop by during lunch. Families are welcome visit during their child’s class or any day between 8 am and 3 pm. The fair will also be open for both Back to School Nights from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The Middle School Night is on September 30^th and High School is on October 1^st.

 

For your convenience, our Book Fair accepts credit cards, checks payable to IACA and cash.

Destination Imagination Season to Begin

An after school activity created to build teamwork, creativity and problem solving skills, Destination Imagination (DI) has been around in Massachusetts for more than 10 years. www.madikids.org is the State website where you can read more about DI in MA. www.idodi.org is the National website where you can see the challenge overviews, background about DI, and see Global Finals videos from prior years.
DI teams meet weekly starting no later than the Holiday Break in December, and compete at the Regional tournament at Chelmsford High School in early March. Successful teams need:

•    A Team Manager (primarily an administrative position… no direct coaching or hands-on assistance is allowed by anyone besides the 7 team members)

•    A place to meet (teams often find weekend meetings work out best)

•    Seven enthusiastic and creative students with 2-4 hours per week to meet and work on a solution between December and March (this continues to Memorial Day if they win at the Regional then State tournaments)
•    A volunteer appraiser for the tournament (two-Saturday commitment). Each team must supply one appraiser.

This program is supported by the IACS Community Association. The only cost to participate is the cost of materials for the team’s solution and any snacks/meals during team meetings if appropriate.  If you are interested in learning more about DI, volunteering as a TM or Appraiser, or participating on a team, please attend our Information Session on October 20th at 6:30 PM in the Chapel. Interested students must be accompanied by an adult to this meeting. If you cannot attend the meeting but are interested in participating, please contact Bryn Dews (dewskb@yahoo.com) , the DI School Coordinator. See attached flyer.


WE NEED ADULT VOLUNTEERS FOR THE PLAY!
Adults:  If you think you may be interested in helping with the play in any area, please email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org.  We need adult volunteers for tech, stage management, costumes, props, hair, make-up, programs, publicity, etc.  Please consider lending a hand in any area!

FAMILIES OF CAST MEMBERS:  The cast has received a rehearsal schedule, contract and script by email.  Please email rhawthorne@innovationcharter.org if you would like to be added to the email list for such communications.  Cast members are required to attend all listed rehearsals.

Art Donations Needed!

The High School Art Department is making a big effort this year to incorporate as much recycling into art making as possible. We need the following items that you might have and not want any longer!!
➢    30 Large - XLarge Men's long sleeve dress shirts (these make great smocks!)
➢    Clean glass baby food jars with lids
➢    Magazines
➢    Newspapers
➢    Clean 20 oz Gatorade/Powerade bottles with lids. These bottles are made out of a much thicker plastic than water bottles, so they work very well for storing paint.
➢    FURNITURE!! - Have you been holding on to a small end table or coffee table that is made out of wood and could be transformed into a beautiful art piece? If so...please contact Ryan Ferdinand at rferdinand@innovationcharter.org!

Looking to Volunteer?
The Board of Trustees Land and Facility Planning Committee is seeking a parent volunteer who is a civil engineer or has similar experience to provide guidance to the group.  While there are no plans for development of the property for school use or other wise at this time, the committee is working to best understand all possibilities.  Anyone interested that meets this criteria should contact Walter Landberg, Executive Director by email at wlandberg@innovationcharter.org or by phone at 978-649-0432, extension 2217.

A Note from The IACA:
The IACA (community association) encourages all IACS families to have at least one parent fill out a CORI form as soon as possible.  The CORI forms are good for 3 years so, if you have filled one out in the last two years AT THIS SCHOOL, you are all set.  As you know, the school handbook requires families to volunteer each year.    Many parents enjoy volunteering at student socials. Cori’s can be found on the schools website under the FORMS link.

If your child attends IACS, you are already a member of the IACA.   Our next meeting is on Wednesday, October 14th in the dining room.  All members of the IACS community are welcome to attend.

TRICK-OR-TREAT with Box Tops!
 
October marks the first Box Tops submission deadline for the school year - so we want to be sure we gather up ALL those box tops folks have been saving over the summer.  Send in your Box Tops to either the office or the collection box in the lunch room.  BE SURE to include your NAME AND HOMEBASE/ADVISORY with your submission.  We'll reward all contributions with a small (non-food) "treat" to recoognize you for your efforts.
 
Also - a reminder to register on BoxTopsForEducation.Com.  They have a terrific SHOP option that earns money for the school when you start your online shopping at BTFE.COM.  No coupons to clip, receipts to save, or refunds to submit .  Simply register, start your online shopping at BTFE, and the school will automatically recieve a percentage of your purchase in cash!
 
If you have any questions or suggestions - contact Kate Conran 978-244-1244 kateconran@hotmail.com
 
THANKS for your participation in this program!

Just a reminder if your child is out sick…..

If your child is sick, please have them stay home from school until free of fever (100.4 degrees F) without the use of fever-reducing medicine for 24 hours. In addition, when calling the school to report their absence please indicate if your child has or has had a fever of 100.4 degrees F or greater.  This is very helpful information as we try to keep track of students with flu-like symptoms.  Thank you for your cooperation in this very important matter.

Upcoming Dates
October 1        Back to School Night
October 6        Early Release (12:15)
October 8        PLAN (Pre-ACT) for 10th and 11th grade students
October 9        Picture Day
October 12       No School (Columbus Day)
October 14       PSAT for 10th and 11th grade students

The Family Journal
The Weekly Newsletter of IACS-HS

Learning Spotlight: ILPs
It was great to see so many families at ILP Conferences!  Not only do ILPs provide a wonderful opportunity for parents to meet their child’s advisor, they mark a fresh start, and for many, a time of renewed focus.  This year, as part of our ILP Process, we have asked students to select learning focuses to incorporate into year-long goals.  These learning focuses will be tied into our Spring Presentations of Learning, where students will have the opportunity to reflect on the challenges and successes that they encounter during the year as they work to reach their goals.  Advisors will have opportunities both in Advisory and in Academic Enrichment, to check-in with students and monitor progress toward their goals.   It is our hope that this new structure of Academic Enrichment and ILP Learning focus will support all students in being successful as they work towards their goals.

If you were not able to attend an ILP conference this week, please contact your child’s advisor as soon as possible to schedule one.

News and Happenings
X2 Training Session:
If you didn’t get a chance to sign up for an X2 training session, email Sasha Douglas at sdouglas@innovationcharter.org. Training sessions will be held on September 22nd from 9 – 10 and September 23rd from 3 – 4.

Driving:
Please remember that students are not allowed to drive to school unless they have been issued an official IACS Parking Permit.  Permit Applications are available outside of Greg and Sasha’s offices.  There has been a slight delay in the arrival of our permits, and we appreciate the cooperation of all families in complying with the policy stated in the handbook.

Back to School Night:
Mark your calendars for Back to School Night, Thursday, October 1st, 6:00-7:30pm. 

Advisory Breakfast:
Mark your calendars for the Advisory breakfast, Thursday, September 24th 8:00-9:00.  We look forward to seeing all families there.  This is a great opportunity to get to know the other members of your child’s advisory.  Please email your child’s advisor if you would like to contribute a breakfast item. 

College Counseling
10th and 11th grade parents: If you missed Thursday night’s standardized testing session, email Jennifer Warren at jwarren@innovationcharter.org.  All parents: The weekly college counseling newsletter is attached!

Music Opportunity:
Please see the attached flyer from the Music Academy of Chelmsford.   The Music Academy is  running two classes- “School of Rock” and “Songwriting 101.” As stated on the flyer- reservations for the class is due by September 30th.    All questions should be directed to Andrew Rega @ (978) 251-7741 or email: info@musicacademyofchelmsford.com

Donations Needed!
The High School Art Department is making a big effort this year to incorporate as much recycling into art making as possible. We need the following items that you might have and not want any longer!!
➢    30 Large - XLarge Men's long sleeve dress shirts (these make great smocks!)
➢    Clean glass baby food jars with lids
➢    Magazines
➢    Newspapers
➢    Clean 20 oz Gatorade/Powerade bottles with lids. These bottles are made out of a much thicker plastic than water bottles, so they work very well for storing paint.
➢    FURNITURE!! - Have you been holding on to a small end table or coffee table that is made out of wood and could be transformed into a beautiful art piece? If so...please contact Ryan Ferdinand at rferdinand@innovationcharter.org!

Board Meetings and Committee Meetings:
Please note that interested members of the community who want to attend board meetings are welcome to do so and that if members of the community are interested in learning about committee meetings, they should contact the Executive Director, Walter Landberg at Wlandberg@innovationcharter.org to get dates/times/locations of meetings.

➢    The next two Board meetings will be 9/28 & 10/26.
➢    The next Committee Meeting will be 10/13 & 11/9.

If you want to receive daily calendar updates sent directly to you....
You can add the IACS calendar to your own personal google calendar by clicking "Google calendar" at the bottom of the school calendar page located on our website. If you don't already have a google account, you'll be prompted to create one.
Once you have added the calendar, you can set notifications up to email you daily updates to your google account (gmail) or even send them to your mobile phone.
If you want to receive the updates at a non gmail address, you can set up your newly created gmail account to forward messages to an account of your choosing (go to gmail -> settings -> Forwarding and POP/IMAP).

Upcoming Dates
September 24        Advisory Breakfast (8- 9)
October 1        Back to School Night
October 6        Early Release (12:15)
October 8        PLAN (Pre-ACT) for 10th and 11th grade students
October 12        No School (Columbus Day)
October 14        PSAT for 10th and 11th grade students

The Family Journal
The Weekly Newsletter of IACS-HS

From the Principals
Dear Families:

The first two weeks of school have flown by.  Between shortened weeks and beginning of year activities, it is hard to keep track of where the time has gone. This edition of the Family Journal is filled with important updates.

Have a great weekend!

Sasha & Greg

News and Happenings

Individual Learning Plan Conferences:
ILP’s will be starting on Wednesday, September 16th. If you haven’t yet scheduled your ILP with your child’s Advisor (High School) or Homebase teacher (Middle School), you should do so as soon as possible to ensure you get a time slot that fits your needs.  All contact information (emails and phone extensions) are found on the opening page of the school’s website using the link Contact Us.

X2 Passwords:
Logins and passwords to the X2 Database will be handed out at ILP’s starting on Wednesday, September 16th.  There will be  sign-up sheet at ILPs for parents who would like some in-person training on using the database.

Standardized Testing Night: 
This important information Night for all Sophomores and Juniors will be held on  Thursday, September 17th from 6:30 – 7:30.  If you are unable to attend Standardized testing night, please email Jennifer Warren, Director of College Counseling (jwarren@innovationcharter.org).  Please feel free to print the attached flier to post at home!

College Counseling Newsletter:
The first edition of our College Counseling Newsletter is attached to this week’s Family Journal.  The Newsletter contains important information for all high school families.

Back to School Night:
Mark your calendars for Back to School Night, Thursday, October 1st, 6:00-7:30pm. 

Advisory Breakfast:
Mark your calendars for the Advisory breakfast, Thursday, September 24th 8:00-9:00.  Please sign up at ILP conferences to bring in items for the breakfast.

School Lunch
Each IACS family should have received a Lunch Packet which included the following:
User ID, Password and instructions for on-line lunch ordering
September Lunch Menu
Free and Reduced Lunch Information
Volunteer Form
If you did not receive this packet please contact karen.drake@innovationcharter.org  (978) 649-0432 x2221.

Music Extracurricular Opportunities
If you are interested in participating in music as an extracurricular activity and didn’t sign up at the Ice Cream Social, please contact Greg Orpen (gorpen@innovationcharter.org).  Andrew Rega, of The Music Academy of Chelmsford is exploring a plan to work with interested students.

General Reminders:
Athletics
All participants in IACS athletics must have a current physical form on file in the IACS Nurse’s Office BEFORE he/she can participate in any athletic activity (practices included).  Check with Mrs. Pimm in the Nurse’s Office to make sure all paperwork is turned in and up-to-date or via email at   HYPERLINK "mailto:gnutilepimm@innovationcharter.org"  gnutilepimm@innovationcharter.org

Reminders about Pickup/Dropoff
Please remember that you may drop off your child at school between 7:40 am and 7:55 am. Classes begin promptly at 8 am and students need time to unpack their belongings at their lockers. Students should not be dropped off prior to 7:40 am as staff begins their supervision of the patio area/cafeteria at that time. Please make sure you pull up beyond the signs that say “No parking/drop off” to ensure student safety.


Governor's Proposal to Lift the Cap on Charter Schools
Dear Leaders,
 The Legislature's public hearing on the Governor's proposal to lift the cap on charter schools in the lowest 10% performing district and to create Readiness Schools will be held on:
 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 @ 1:00 P.M. IN GARDNER AUDITORIUM IN THE STATE HOUSE
 As can predicted, when discussions turn to raising the cap, they also focus on the charter school funding formula.  We expect a big push from charter opponents to change the charter funding formula this fall as part of the legislative debate on the governor's bill.
 Therefore, as always, we need a large turnout of parents at the hearing.