Mustang Mail

May 17, 2001

Mr. McDaniel's Memo
Kindergarten Enrollment for 2001-2002 Important Info.
Recent information indicates that the Governor will permit the budget to become law without his signature. That bill also includes the change in the cut-off day for kindergarten enrollment dates. Therefore, the state law setting the entrance age for next year's kindergarten students will change from June 1 to July 1.

If your child turns five years of age on or before July 1, 2001, please come to the school offices as soon as possible to complete enrollment forms. Immunization records and original birth certificates are required! Please help us determine our enrollment for next year by sharing this information with neighbors and friends. Thank you!


Spring School Pictures
If you had your child's picture taken this spring and would like to purchase those photographs, please read the directions carefully in the picture packet sent home this week. You may purchase all, some, or none of the pictures of your child. (Please make checks payable to "School Pictures.") All pictures not purchased and/or all checks for pictures kept by you must be returned to school by Thursday, May 24. (Sorry, there will be no retakes.) Thank you!


Intent to Return Information Form
Your child should have given you a form last week to help us know how many of our students will be returning next year and how many will be transferring to other schools. Please complete and return that form by this Monday, May 21. Please contact the school office if you need another form. Thank you.


School Volunteer Celebration - Final Reminder
Stony Creek Elementary School will be recognizing school volunteers at a reception to be held on Wednesday, May 23, from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. in our school cafeteria. Our Student Council will serve ice cream treats to our guests. This event is to thank those individuals who have contributed a significant amount of hours/days as school volunteers on a regular basis. If you believe that you qualify as one of those individuals, please R.S.V.P. to our office by Monday, May 21 with a note or phone call.


Stony Creek Scholarships
We would like to congratulate Rachel for receiving the annual Stony Creek Scholarships this year. On Wednesday, May 16, at the NHS Awards Program, Mrs. Griffin presented her with a $500 scholarship to help with tuition, books, or supplies. To be eligible, a student had to have attended Stony Creek for at least one year; plan to obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education, and qualify based on academic standing, character, leadership, and interest in the elementary-age child. Funding was made possible from the Breakfast for Champions fund-raiser. Congratulations to Rachel and a special thank you to everyone who helped with this program.
"The Stony Creek Community prepares today's students to meet tomorrow's challenges."


Summer Nature Center Parents
Parents who are interested in attending any of the study trips this summer during Summer Nature Center must have a Volunteer Data Sheet on file at a Noblesville School. If you have not filled out one of these forms, please get one from your school office. Complete and return this form before school ends.


Parents' Points to Ponder
(We are including another list of ideas for parents to consider when their child participates in sports, as requested by some of you.)

TOP 10 LIST Of The Most Embarrassing Things NOT To Do At One Of Your Child's Games! *From a Sports Illustrated For Kids Readers' Poll (SportsParents.com)

10. No More Tears (Please!): If your kid makes a game-winning play or a game-losing error, don't embarrass him or her by crying about it. Kids say that tears -- no matter how loving -- are not cool.

9. Let It Be: Don't overreact to little hurts - or big ones, for that matter. "When I busted my nose, my mom thought I was going to die," wrote one child. "She ran out to me when the coach was already there."

8. Keep Your Eyes on the Ball: Kids want you to really watch their games. Complained one child, "My mother was putting her makeup on in the stands!"

7. Father (or Mother) Doesn't Always Know Best: Kids like it when their parents know something about the sport they're playing, but parents who think they know it all can go too far. "Mom yelled at the ref when the ref was right," said one kid.

6. No Bragging: In addition to being totally embarrassing, bragging about your child to other parents puts unnecessary pressure on the kid.

5. Close Encounters: Fixing your child's uniform, washing his face, or brushing her hair between innings is considered a personal foul by most kids. It's okay if your kid saunters over for a mid-game snack but don't go over to the bench to tie his shoes. And don't ever make the terrible mistake one dad made: He sat down on the bench and drank out of his kid's water bottle!

4. Curses!: Kids don't want you to say anything you wouldn't want them to say. As one Little League coach told a mother who was yelling obscenities at the umpire, "Remember, our children are watching!"

3. Too Much of a Good Thing: Your child may not mind if you come to his game with the dog, a cowbell and a video camera, but most kids do mind. Be cool.

2. Think Before You Speak: Kids take exception to yells such as "Pull up your pants" and "Are you okay, honey?" Even cheering gets booed if it's at the wrong time, or too loud.

1. Affection Rejection: Unless you're positive your kid is okay with this, keep the hugs, kisses, and love pats to the confines of your home -- preferably when none of your child's teammates are within a 10-mile radius.




May 14, 2001

Mr. McDaniel's Memo
Phonics Online
Teachers and parents can learn to teach phonics from the new Phonics Online program that can be found on the Indiana Department of Education web site. Indiana citizens can register for free and receive a wealth of related practice activities and assessment information.
The course is divided into six modules. Many resources are built into the course. Work on any one module or all of them. Learn strategies for:
1. Phonemic awareness.
2. Basic sound-spelling patterns.
3. Secondary sound-spellings patterns.
4. Prefixes, suffixes, and other word structures.
5. High frequency vocabulary.
6. Diagnostics and assessment.
Check out the Web Site of the Department of Education (http://doe.state.in.us/) or go directly to the registration page at http://eric.indiana.edu/phonics. For additional information, call 1-800-759-4723.


Dates To Remember
- PTO Meeting - Tuesday, May 15, 7:00 p.m.
- Stony Creek Student Opera - Monday, May 21, 7:00 p.m.
- Sport Camps Information Meeting - Grades 1-4, Wednesday, May 22, 2:45 - gym.
- Stony Creek Volunteer Celebration - Wednesday, May 23, 2:30 ? 4:30, RSVP by 5-21.
- NO SCHOOL: Flex Day - Friday, May 25.
- NO SCHOOL: Memorial Day - Monday, May 28.
- Student Recognition Program - Thursday, May 31, 9:30 a.m. - Mustang Hall. We will be recognizing our 4th grade students, perfect attendance, and summer birthdays.
- LAST DAY OF SCHOOL - Thursday, May 31. Report cards distributed today. Dismiss at regular time.


Library Books Due
All books and materials checked out from our media center must be returned on Friday, May 18th. Please check to make sure all school property is returned so that it may be used by others next year. Thanks!


Movie Night Thanks
On behalf of everyone who enjoyed last week's movie, we want to thank Angie Parrish, Kim Small, and Beth Draper. They helped make all of the arrangements for this fun activity. We also want to thank all of the parents, teachers, and staff who helped, too! We give the program "two thumbs up!"


PTO Spring Flower Sale
Thank you to all who supported the PTO Flower Sale this spring. This sale made over $1,000 for our Stony Creek PTO. We are sorry for the inconvenience caused by some flowers not being delivered on time and the substitution of some colors. We are working to make the sale better next year! We would like to thank some people who were very kind to help us unload flowers and help with pick-up. They are: Michelle Hones, Karen Prudent, Lisa Smith, Linda Knolls, and Kathy Starling. (Message from Jeanine Pottridge and Beth Murphy.)
A GREAT BIG THANKS also goes to Mrs. Sandra Thomas for all of her work with our Outdoor Education Lab! We do need volunteers to help water and weed this summer. Please let Mrs. Thomas know if you would like to sign up to help for just a little while this summer.


Nurse's Notes: Medications at School
If your child has any medicine (prescription or over-the counter - i.e. Tylenol) in the nurse's office, please pick it up by 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 31, 2001. All medicine left in the office after that time will be discarded. Please call Mrs. Nee if special arrangements are needed.


Emergency Clothing
Please return any clothing items your child borrowed from the nurse's office this year. We need to keep that supply on hand for other emergencies next year. Thanks!


Lost & Found
Lost and Found - Last Chance! We have accumulated a large collection of miscellaneous items in our Lost and Found. If you suspect your child is missing an article of clothing or any other items during the school year, please encourage them to check for lost or missing items. We would like to return as many of these items to their rightful owners as possible before we dismiss for summer vacation. Leftovers will be donated to the nurse's office or Good Will.


Important Immunization Notice!
The Noblesville Schools are required to enforce the Department of Education rules on student immunization.
Please understand that we must require that all students needing immunizations must have them completed prior to the opening of school on August 15, 2001.
NO STUDENT WILL BE PERMITTED TO ENROLL IN SCHOOL
WITHOUT PROOF OF IMMUNIZATION RECORDS.
Thank you for your cooperation in this most important health matter.


Stony Creek Elementary School Mission Statement
"The Stony Creek Community prepares today's studentsto meet tomorrow's challenges."

Our Core Values:
- We are about children.
- We nurture a love of lifelong learning.
- We build character and competence.
- We expect personal best.
- We provide a safe and caring environment.
- We believe educating everyone takes everyone.

We believe, own, and promote these Core Values!


May 10, 2001
Mr. McDaniel's Memo
School Attendance Information
(The following is information regarding changes in our district's attendance policy.)
Classroom attendance, even when no grades are assigned for the day's activities, provides valuable learning through lecture, discussion, group activities, and student interaction. When students are absent, they deprive their classmates of their contributions to the learning process, and they derive no benefits themselves from the classroom discussions and interactions among teachers and fellow students. The primary goal of the any attendance policy is to encourage maximum student attendance so that students may reap these educational benefits.

What rules apply to student attendance?
Students are in attendance one hundred and eighty (180) days per year, and there are one hundred and eighty-five (185) days during the year which do not require school attendance. The building principal will emphasize good daily attendance practices with students and with the parents or guardians by communicating through the building handbook. Indiana standards and requirements provide by statute that:
each principal may take action concerning his school or any school activity within his jurisdiction which is necessary to carry out or prevent interference with an educational function or school purpose... including the establishment of written rules and standards to govern student conduct; and, it is unlawful for a parent to fail, neglect, or refuse to send his child to a public school for the full term as required under this chapter unless the child is being provided with equivalent instruction as the public school provides.

So why is this an issue now?
Indiana Public Law 221 now measures each high school's attendance average against all other schools and places schools in performance categories using attendance as one of the criteria for placement. For example, our high school attendance rate this year was 95.5%. The DOE lists "Top Performing Schools" at a rate of 97.5%. The state average was 95.8% for 2000. Accordingly, schools can perform well in academic terms but be placed in a lower achievement category due to insufficient attendance and graduation rates. Indiana also created an attendance standard with the requirement that students who do not pass the ISTEP+ graduation exam establish a 95% attendance rate and meet certain academic standards in order to receive a diploma.
If we are going to be successful within the school improvement standards, each student and each building need to guarantee that the established attendance rate will be met. Students who are chronically absent and those who take extra vacation days will make it necessary for other students to have virtually no absences in order for the schoolwide average to meet the established targets.

What about unique circumstances?
According to School Board policy regarding extraordinary circumstances parents may, in rare instances, receive approval of the principal for students to be absent and excused from school for reasons other than those specified by law and policy. If the parents believe that the request is a rare educational opportunity under extraordinary circumstances, they should call the principal or designated assistant principal to describe the opportunity. The principal will determine whether the requested absence will be excused with no penalty or unexcused.

Is this only a student/parent issue?
School staff members can model positive behavior by having exemplary attendance themselves. They can also reinforce the value of school attendance by insuring that meaningful educational activities occur on each of the 180 days when schools are in session. Everyone involved in education must adapt to higher standards for attendance in order to assist Noblesville Schools in reaching their goals.


Parents' Points to Ponder
'10 Rules for Supporting Your Kid from the Sidelines' By Rick Wolff
Parenting a young athlete can be a very interesting experience. When your son or daughter makes a great play, you feel as though you will burst with pride. But what about when your young athlete goes out for a pass and drops the ball due to obvious pass interference - obvious to everyone but the official! How do you react to that? Or how about when your son or daughter's coach makes a bad decision. Are you the one that points it out to him from the stands? Here are 10 simple reminders written by Rick Wolff that will help you be a better spectator and a better supporter of your athlete.

1. CHEER, don't SNEER! Only positive words should come out of your mouth during a game. There is simply no place for negative comments or criticism.

2. WALK before you SQUAWK. If you feel a sudden urge to yell at the coach or the ref, take a walk and cool off before you say something that will embarrass you - or your child.

3. A YELL won't make the team JELL. Don't bellow instructions to your child from the sideline. It's boorish and your kid can't hear a word you're saying, anyway!

4. Don't sell them SHORT, be a SPORT. If the opposing team has played well, give them a pat on the back. Nothing makes a kid feel more special than when a parent from the opposing team tells him how well he played.

5. Don't point and BLAME when they lose a GAME. When your child's team loses, don't blame it on a bad call, a teammate's error, or anything else. How will your child learn to accept responsibility if you don't?

6. Give 'em a SMILE - not BILE. Kids always respond to the coach or parent who smiles - not to the adult who criticizes or scowls. Besides, your child wants to see you having fun.

7. RAISE with PRAISE. That's right, the kids will "raise" their game and their efforts if you praise them. Use any achievement as an excuse for a compliment. They want to believe in themselves and you can help them.

8. For Pete's SAKE, give the ump a BREAK! Remember, most of the umpires and referees are volunteers donating their time to your kids. And accept it: "Bad" calls are part of sports.

9. PARALYSIS by ANALYSIS. Avoid replaying the game in the family station wagon on the drive home. If your kid brings the game up, fine. But chances are it's about the last thing he wants to talk about.

10. This I BESEECH, practice what your PREACH. With too many pro athletes talking trash and misbehaving, parents have to work extra hard to teach kids fair play. Make sure your own sportsmanship is flawless. You're the most important role models kids have!

Rick Wolff has written widely on the subject of sports psychology and kids, including his 1993 work, Good Sports: A Concerned Parent's Guide to Little League and other Competitive Youth Sports. Wolff played minor league baseball with the Detroit Tigers' organization and has served as the psychological coach for the Cleveland Indians baseball team. More of his work can be found at www.sportsparent.com.



May 7, 2001
Mr. McDaniel's Memo
Community Advisory Council
The Community Advisory Council has completed the work with Dr. Boyd, school consultant, and the corporation feasibility study. It will be presented to the board at the May 15 meeting.
The CAC invites any member of the public interested in learning about the study to the May 21st CAC meeting at Forest Hill Elementary. The meeting will begin at a special time - 6:30 p.m. There were five major purposes of the study:
* An analysis of the population trends in the school community.
* An assessment of community demographics and their potential impact of future educational needs in the community.
* An analysis of the general condition of the present facilities, sites, structural conditions and environments of the buildings.
* Assessment of the utilization of the present facilities in relation to the present program offerings.
* Review the financial status of the school corporation including debt service obligations and a projection of the ability or the Noblesville Schools to finance future building needs.


Kindergarten Enrollment for 2001-2002 Important Info.
The possibility exists that the state law setting the entrance age for next year's kindergarten students might change from June 1 to July 1. The Governor may ask the legislature to rework the budget bill in mid June on technical adjustment day. That bill includes the change in the cut-off day. We will not be taking action on something that MAY become law, we will act on things that are laws. If the change goes through as adopted in the General Assembly, we will move to adjust our entrance dates accordingly. Since the entrance age has not yet been changed, we can only collect names and let concerned parents know when we know.
If your child turns five years of age on or before July 1, 2001, please contact the school office so we may place your child's name, address, phone number, and date of birth on a list should the law change. Thank you!


School Volunteer Celebration
Stony Creek Elementary School will be recognizing school volunteers at a reception to be held on Wednesday, May 23, from 2:30 ? 4:30 p.m. in our school cafeteria. Our Student Council will serve ice cream treats to our guests. This event is to thank those individuals who have contributed a significant amount of hours/days as school volunteers on a regular basis. If you believe that you qualify as one of those individuals, please R.S.V.P. to our office by Monday, May 21 with a note or phone call.
We want to thank all of our volunteers who have helped with a field trip, room activity, or P.T.O. event. It is the help and dedication of everyone that makes Stony Creek such a special place for our students.


Teacher & Assistant's Appreciation Week - May 7-11
Stony Creek will be honoring our school's teachers and instructional assistants throughout the week of May 7-11. Please think about a way to express to your children's teachers and assistants how much you appreciate the hard work and dedication that they give to each and every student every day.

"At the desk where I sit, I have learned one great truth. The answer for all our national problems - the answer for all the problems of the world ? comes to a single word. That word is "education." Lyndon B. Johnson

"We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future." Franklin D. Roosevelt


THE AFRICAN CHILDREN'S CHOIR
Coming to Noblesville High School, Sunday May 6 at 6:00 p.m. - the internationally acclaimed and Grammy-nominated AFRICAN CHILDREN'S CHOIR in concert. NO TICKETS REQUIRED!! THIS CONCERT IS FREE!!!
THE AFRICAN CHILDREN'S CHOIR is a group of approximately 20-25 beautiful African children, ages 5 through 12, who are selected from especially needy children in West and East Africa. They perform a wide variety of songs. Drums and ethnic instrumentation accompany delightful African tunes. Also included in the program are well-loved children's songs, popular gospel tunes and lively spirituals.

For more information, call the First Presbyterian Church at 773-2383 M-F, 8-12 noon.


Cinco de Mayo Family Program A Great Success!
On behalf of everyone who enjoyed the wonderful evening, we want to thank the following members of the planning committee: Karen Roberts, Angie Parish, Susan LeVassuer, Sandi Bitner, Kathy Crosley, Rob and Laura Towle, Michelle Foster, Nancy Hendrix, and all the parent, teacher and staff volunteers.

We also want to thank and recognize the following sponsors: Industrial Dielectrics, Inc., Noblesville Pediatrics, Seyferts, La Charreada Restaurant, Taco Bell, Schwans, Third Phase, Children's Museum, International Center, Stony Creek PTO, and the Noblesville Education Foundation. We sincerely appreciate their support!


Noblesville Education Foundation
The Noblesville Education Foundation has several fundraisers to help sponsor annual enrichment grants (such as our Cinco de Mayo Program) and scholarships for teacher and graduating seniors. Here are some of the Foundation's projects:
* Garfield License Plates - Did you know that the Foundation is the recipient of $20 for each Garfield "Committed to Education" License Plate sold in our area? This means additional grants for our schools!
* High School brick sales - Engraved bricks to be permanently placed in the sidewalk at the high school. This is a great gift for a special teacher, graduating student or alumni. Call Lee Clark at 267-7468 for more details.
* The Foundation is planning a community reception on May 24th at L'Opera Restaurant on the square from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. The Foundation hopes to gain ideas from local businesses regarding future fundraising events. Look for more details as the date nears in the Ledger or call Sharon Linville at 877-8903 for more information.
Thank you for your support!


More Summer Sports Information Available
If you are interested in Miller Boys Basketball Camps, Noblesville Schools/Township Tennis Camp, NHS Volleyball Clinic, Noblesville Football Fundamentals Camp, and more, please pick up a flyer in the school office!


Parents' Points to Ponder
"My father has always taught me that there are only two things that you have to do:
You have to share and you have to care." Tiger Woods



April 30, 2001

Mr. McDaniel's Memo

Best Wishes To Our Retiring Teachers and Staff
On behalf of the current and past teachers, staffs, administrators, school boards, parents and students, I would like to congratulate the following teachers and staff for their many years of dedication and service to the children of Noblesville. Their positive influence on others is immeasurable and contributions too many to mention. We sincerely appreciate the work they have done for our students and school.

Mrs. Griffin - Second Grade
After starting a career as a first grade teacher in Seattle, Washington for one year, Mrs. Griffin moved back to Indiana and taught third grade at Second Ward Elementary for another year. She stayed home to be a fulltime wife and mother until her children were in school. Mrs. Griffin came back to teaching when Stony Creek was one year old, and says it has been a blessing to teach second grade here these past 33 years. "What a privilege to have had a small part in each child's learning experience I loved the excitement most children have about learning. I felt pleasure in seeing children learn skills with which they had been struggling. It has been wonderful to see the growth made by each child in nine month. It is always a joy to have students come back to visit me, and to share their favorite experiences in second grade. It has been a particular pleasure this year to have had two children of past students. And teaching with a past student or student teacher has given me special joy. I have had the pr





ivilege of teaching under the leadership of three great principals, and teaching with my four best friends for many of these years. They have taught me so much. I have laughed, cried, and prayed with and for students, parents, and fellow teachers. I cherish each relationship. God has truly blessed me through the experiences He has given me as a second grade teacher at Stony Creek."

Mrs. Marba Bertling - Fourth Grade
Mrs. Bertling has taught fourth grade for 11 years and fifth grade one year here at Stony Creek. Prior to that, she taught first grade in Illinois for four years and in one year in Marion at Riverview Elementary in second grade. Mrs. Bertling has said, "Noblesville Schools as a whole, and Stony Creek specifically, has done more for me than I could ever hope to reciprocate. Getting the job at Stony Creek was probably one of the most wonderful blessings of my life. It has been an indescribable twelve years that has helped by grow abundantly! My classroom has been a happy place for several years, and the kids I have gotten to enjoy are much more to me than mere students. I am so thankful for the smiles, hugs, pictures, notes, and love they give to me each and every day, and for the many return visits of former students. There is magic in the innocence and acceptance of a child that cannot be replicated by anything." Mrs. Bertling plans to move back home to southern Illinois this summer to "fish on my mom





's pond, plant a flower in her garden," and enjoy her family. Mrs. Bertling says, "I have donned my ruby slippers, am prepared to click the heels together three times, and will soon close my eyes and mutter softly: 'There's No Place Like Home!'"

Mrs. Sally Borse - FOCUS
Mrs. Borse shared these thoughts: "With the completion of this school year, I will have spent 14 wonderful years teaching for Noblesville Schools. I was fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time when coming back to teaching after staying home with my four children. I taught the self-contained G/T program at Hinkle Creek for 12 years. I have watched Noblesville schools grow from four elementaries to six. Through my years of teaching, I have learned about 4-MAT, Integrated Instruction, CLASS, computer technology, and Differentiated Learning. When the decision was made to phase out the self-contained PACE program, I was given the opportunity to move to Stony Creek. This was a little bit scary, but has proved to be one of the best times of my teaching career. The faculty and staff at Stony welcomed me with open arms. This is a wonderful, caring school. I will leave my classroom teaching career with many warm and fond memories of the students I have been privileged to teach. I intend






to stay connected with Stony as I plan to continue to be a part of the NCA process and will also continue to help Mrs. Tetrick with ThinkQuest. I am looking forward to spending more time caring for my husband's elderly parents and being able to travel to some of the places we have studied about in FOCUS. I thank you all for letting me be a part of your school and your child's education."

Mrs. Jackie Davis - Cafeteria
Our cafeteria supervisor, Cherie Higginbotham, offered these comments about Mrs. Jackie Davis. "She has been a very devoted employee to the Noblesville Schools district for the last 21 years. Jackie started her career as a school food service worker in 1971 for the Westfield School Corporation. In 1980, she became a Noblesville Schools' employee when she was hired at the high school. Mrs. Davis remained there until the new high school was built. She then became a employee of the middle school and worked there for three years. For the last two years, Jackie has been working here at Stony Creek. Jackie has a husband, three sons, and six grandchildren, which she is looking forward to spending time with during her retirement years."

Please join us in thanking these individuals by sending a card or letter to school to express your appreciation and best wishes. We look forward to seeing each of them back at Stony Creek often in the years to come as our very special guests!



Cinco de Mayo Family Fun Night Festia
This is your final invitation and reminder of the great evening planned this Thursday, May 3, from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. in the gym and cafeteria. There is no cost to participate! Please come and enjoy a fun time with a Mariachi Band, other music, dancing, food, crafts, games, and more!!! Please support your school's new enrichment program for children and have a wonderful evening of fun with your family.


Spring Flowers - Final Reminder
The spring flowers will be available for pick up on Friday, May 4th from 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria. If you are not able to make this time, please call Jeanine Pottridge (770-9390) or Beth Murphy (776-0446). ANY PLANTS


Parents' Points to Ponder
"For a teacher to live forever in the heart and memory of even a single child is the best tribute of all."
AFI Notable Quote - Thank Heaven for Teachers



April 24, 2001

Mr. McDaniel's Memo
As part of our school improvement process, we have been reviewing and revising our school's mission statement. With input from students, teachers, staff, parents, and business and community members, the following Stony Creek Elementary School Mission Statement and Core Values list were adopted by the School Improvement Committee on April 16, 2001. (These revisions took a total of about four hours of accumulated discussion to develop.) We are very proud of the final product and appreciate everyone's efforts!

Stony Creek Elementary School Mission Statement:
"The Stony Creek Community prepares today's students to meet tomorrow's challenges."

Our Core Values:
- We are about children.
- We nurture a love of lifelong learning.
- We build character and competence.
- We expect personal best.
- We provide a safe and caring environment.
- We believe educating everyone takes everyone.

We believe, own, and promote these Core Values!


Reminder: Stony Creek School Improvement Program Public Forum April 24
If you would like to see and hear about some of the school data we have collected, the goals and interventions we are considering and give input as to how we can improve our school, please join us tonight, Tuesday, April 24, at 7:00 p.m. in the media center. For this process to be truly effective and successful, the entire learning community must be involved. Hope to see you there!


PTO NEWS
Spring Flowers ? Important Information
The spring flowers will be available for pick up on Friday, May 4th from 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria. If you are not able to make this time, please call Jeanine Pottridge (770-9390) or Beth Murphy (776-0446). ANY PLANTS REMAINING AFTER 6:00 P.M. ON MAY 4th WILL BE DONATED TO THE STONY CREEK LANDSCAPE COMMITTEE.

Secretaries, Support Staff, & School Psychologist Recognition Week - April 24-28
Stony Creek will be honoring our school's secretaries, Carla Learned and Laurie Emerick; our instructional assistants, Danielle Reece, Melissa McLaughlin, Cathy Crosley, Sharon Parker, Stephanie Stevens, Debbie Meyer, Amy Wagoner and Susan LeVasseur; and our school psychologist, Dr. Laura McGraw-Cook throughout the week of April 24-27. They are responsible for providing so many different services for our students, staff, and parents. Please join us in saluting these very important members of our Stony Creek staff!


Noblesville Soccer Club
Fall Soccer Registration ? Register and pay on-line at www.noblesvillesoccer.org between now and June 3, 2001 and receive up to a $5.00 discount per child off the registration fee. In addition, you will receive a $5.00 coupon toward the purchase of $30 at The Corner Kick. You may pay by either electronic check ($5.00 discount) or credit card ($3.00 discount. Call Jane Lively at 773-6060 for more information.


Noblesville Swimming and Diving League (NSDL)
Like to swim? Want to learn how to dive? There will be a swimming and diving league at Noblesville's Forest Park this summer! All skill levels, all ages may participate! There will be a 10 and under division and an 11 and above division for both boys and girls, and special events that will allow even the most novice swimmer or diver to compete! An information packet and sign-up sheet is available at your school's office, or by contacting Jason Lancaster of the Noblesville Swim Club at 317-773-8424.


Noblesville Football Camps 2001
Noblesville football fundamentals camp will be held on Monday June 4 through Friday June 8th, from 8:00 am-9:45 am for players entering grades 8 & 9, 10:30 am - 12:00 am for players entering grades 4,5,6, & 7, at Noblesville High School. Cost is $50.00 and brochures will be handed out at the various schools or at the boys club.
For questions, contact Coach Barr at 773-4680, ext. 620.


Summer Sport Opportunities
There are several different flyers available in the school office for student sport opportunities for this summer. Please stop by the office if you are interested in finding out more about a specific activity.


Parents' Points to Ponder
Everything I Need To Know I Learned From The Easter Bunny
- Don't put all of your eggs in one basket.
- Walk softly and carry a big carrot.
- Everyone needs a friend who is all ears.
- There's no such thing as too much candy.
- All work and no play can make you a basket case.
- Everyone is entitled to a bad hare day.
- Let happy thoughts multiply like rabbits.
- Keep your paws off other people's jellybeans.
- The grass is always greener in someone else's basket.
- An Easter bonnet can tame even the wildest hare.
- To show your true colors, you have to come out of your shell.
- The best things in life are still sweet and gooey! Author Unknown
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Best Wishes in Retirement Jerry Grimes - Friday, April 27!



April 10, 2001

Mr. McDaniel's Memo
Stony Creek School Improvement Program Public Forum
As mentioned in several newsletters this year, our school is very involved in seeking accreditation through the North Central Association and meeting the rigorous requirements for school improvement as set forth in the new state legislation referred to as Public Law 221. In addition to seeking ideas for school improvement from parent surveys, teachers, staff and the School Improvement Committee, we want to offer to all parents and community members the opportunity to be involved in this process. If you would like to see and hear about some of the data we have collected, the goals and interventions we are considering and give input as to how we can improve our school, please join us. We will be meeting on Tuesday, April 24, at 7:00 p.m. in the media center. For this process to be truly effective and successful, the entire learning community must be involved. Hope to see you there!


Librarian/Aides Recognition Week
Stony Creek recently honored our school's librarian, Mrs. Tetrick, and our media technical assistants, Mrs. Harting, Mrs. Croke, and Mrs. Klotz. They are responsible for providing media and technological services for Stony Creek students and staff. We're very proud of our Media Center here at Stony Creek. Students and staff check out and read a large number of books and materials each week. Please join us in saluting these very important members of our Stony Creek staff!


Camp MacAttack Is Back!
Once again this summer, Camp MacAttack is being offered to a limited number of students from all over the Noblesville School District. Camp Mac is a five-day experience where technology and fun combine to produce a multimedia project that will enhance participants' computer, social and leadership skills.
Who: Students who will be in grades 3, 4, or 5 in the fall of 2001.
When: Beginner Session: July 2, 3, 5, 6, & 9, 2001, (For those 3rd and 4th grade students who did not attend Camp Mac in 2000.)
Advanced Session: July, 10, 11, 12, 13, & 16, 2001, (For those 4th grade students who attended Camp Mac in 2000 and 5th graders.)
Where: White River Elementary (Cost is $50 per participant. Each session runs from 8:30 a.m. ? 3:30 p.m.) Applications are available in the school office.


AYS Summer Registration
AYS is holding a summer registration night on Wednesday, April 18th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at White River Elementary School. This program is available for children ages 4 to 12 (6th grade). AYS runs from 6:45 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. during the summer. They provide creative, recreational, and physical activities for children throughout the summer. Visit the registration night or stop by the Stony Creek EC AYS program for more details.


Dates To Remember
- PTO Meeting - Tonight, 7:00 p.m.
- 4Th Grade Students & Parents Orientation Night - Tonight or Wednesday, April 18, 7:00 p.m. at NIS. Important information for students and parents. Please attend one!
- Kindergarten Spring Music Program - Thursday, April 12, 7:00 p.m.
- Spring Pictures - Friday, April 13. New for Stony Creek! Information went home yesterday. This is an OPTIONAL activity. You do not have to participate unless interested. Thanks you.
- Breakfast for Champions - Reservations due Friday, April 13.
- Kindergarten Enrollment - April 16-20. 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. No registration fee at this time. Immunization and birth certificate are required.
- School Improvement Committee - Monday, April 16, 3:45 p.m.
- 4th Grade Parent Night at NIS - Wednesday, April 18, 7:00 p.m.
- Movie Night - The Emperor's New Grove - Friday, April 20, Note times: 6:15-?8:30 p.m.
- Breakfast for Champions - Saturday, April 21, 7:30-10:30 a.m.
- FLEX DAY - Monday, April 23. No School unless another day of school is cancelled.
- Blood Drive - Tuesday, April 24, here at Stony Creek, 3:30-7:30 p.m.
- Public Forum - Stony Creek Elementary School Improvement Information, Tuesday, April 24, media center, 7:00 p.m.
- 4th Grade to Camp Tecumseh - April 26 and 27.
- Young Astronauts Overnight - Friday, April 27.


Safety Check - Smoke Detectors & Home Fire Drills
Experts suggest that you check / replace your smoke detector batteries every spring and fall. This also a good time to consider adding more detectors to your home. Did you know there are two kinds of smoke detectors? One detects slow burning fires that produce deadly smoke and the other alerts you of fast burning fires with high heat. For extra protection, it is a good idea to have both. Models are available with both types in one.
This would also be a good time to review family fire drill procedures at home. What are your escape routes? Where would everyone meet together outside? Do children know not to go back into a burning house for any reason? Invest a few minutes with your family to review these important safety procedures.


Parents' Points to Ponder
Assorted sayings from an unknown author.
- Kindness is difficult to give away because it keeps coming back.
- He who angers you, controls you!
- Nothing ruins the truth like stretching it.
- Watch your step carefully! Everyone else does!
- Wisdom has two parts:
1) Having a lot to say.
2) Not saying it.
- She who is good at making excuses is seldom good for anything else.
- Worry is the darkroom in which "negatives" are developed.
- We're too blessed to be depressed.


April 9, 2001

Mr. McDaniel's Memo
Kindergarten Enrollment for 2001-2002
REMINDER: Kindergarten Enrollment for students who will be eligible to enter kindergarten next school year will be held April 16-20 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Students should enroll at the elementary school they will attend. At the present time, according to Indiana law, children must be five years of age on or before June 1, 2001 in order to enroll in kindergarten. Immunization records and original birth certificates are required! No fees will be collected until school begins. Please help us determine our enrollment for next year by sharing this information with neighbors and friends. THANK YOU!

Please note: Consideration for a preference of the morning or afternoon session will be given to those parents who enroll their children during the designated sign-up period. Late registrations will be assigned to the session that best meets the school's enrollment needs to balance class sizes. The sooner a student is registered, the better the chances for a parent's preference to be met. However, school officials in all cases will make the final decision on class placement based on a variety of criteria.


Lunch Charges - Important Information
Effective Monday, April 30, 2001, students will not be allowed to charge their lunch(es). As the end of the school is near, all overdue lunch charges are to be paid as soon as possible in order to get our books up to date. Students need to bring money to purchase a ticket on Monday mornings, or have money each day in order to pay for their lunch. Any student who forgets his or her money or lunch from home will be sent to the office to call a parent or relative to bring them either money for lunch or a lunch from home.

Interested persons may pay in advance for lunches through the end of the school year. The total cost from April 30 until the end of school (22 lunches) is $33.00. The total cost for reduced lunch is $8.80. Any unused tickets will be refunded. Thank you for your cooperation.


Breakfast For Champions
The Stony Creek faculty and staff will be sponsoring a family appreciation "Breakfast For Champions" for all Stony Creek families on Saturday, April 21st from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. Proceeds from this annual event will be applied to the ninth annual Stony Creek Scholarship. This award will be presented to a N.H.S. senior who attended Stony Creek and has intentions of studying elementary education in college. Pancakes, sausage, eggs, cinnamon rolls, and drinks will be served. As an additional treat, our Young Authors will have their books on display that morning to share with you! A reservation form is being sent home soon. Please watch for it and return your reservation by the deadline listed. Thanks!


Jump Rope for Heart
A big THANK YOU goes to everyone who helped with the American Heart Association's Jump Rope for Heart. Top fundraisers were: 1st Grade - Tori and Ashlee; 2nd Grade - Natasha; 3rd Grade - Scotty; and 4th Grade - Kevin. Special goes thanks to Miss Busby for all of her efforts in organizing this event. We also want to thank Miss Gustafson, Mrs. Werbe and the parent volunteers for their help.



March 14, 2001

Mr. McDaniel's Memo
The following Life Skills will be addressed during the remainder of the year. Please discuss each of these with your children to show your interest and support. Thank you!

Problem-Solving: To create solutions in difficult situations and everyday problems.

Flexibility: To be willing to alter plans when necessary.

Curiosity: A desire to investigate and seek understanding of one's world.

Sense of Humor: To laugh and be playful without harming others.


Bully-Free Group
Mrs. Park will be conducting a Bully-Free Group in addition to the small groups discussed in her March 1st newsletter "Note from the Counselor." This Bully-Free group will focus on identifying a bully and a victim. Students will also learn how to handle a bully. If you are interested in having your child participate in this group, please contact Mrs. Terri Park at school at 773-0582.


Eleventh Annual NHS Physics Demonstrations Night
Each year, NHS physics teachers and high school physics students organize Physics Demonstration Night. The aim of this program is to illustrate basic physics principles in an entertaining fashion. Before the program begins, several displays will be available, including several hands-on activities and demonstrations. These include mirrors, a hovercraft, plasma ball, center-of-gravity/balancing activities, Van de Graaff electrostatic generator, and using an oscilloscope and a computer to illustrate sound waves. The on-stage presentations will include lasers, inertia, sound, shrink-wrap a student, and liquid nitrogen demonstrations.

We believe students and parents will enjoy this program. The program is open to all at no charge. The ELEVENTH ANNUAL PHYSICS DEMONSTRATIONS NIGHT will be held in the NOBLESVILLE HIGH SCHOOL LARGE-GROUP INSTRUCTION (LGI) ROOM, TUESDAY, MARCH 27, 2001. Hands-on displays will be available at 6:30 p.m. in the hallway outside LGI, and the stage presentation of demonstrations begins at 7:00 p.m. The demonstrations program will last about one hour (7:00-8:15).

Please enter from the North faculty parking lot (on the North side of NHS, off Field Drive) and enter the student services entrance at the west-end of the bus zone. If you have any questions, please call 773-4680 to contact (or leave a voice mail) NHS Physics Teachers Mr. Charles Emmert (ext. 244), Mr. Hugh Ross (ext 242) or Mr. Layne Maki (ext.131).


Summer School Dates for 2001
Please consider the following information when planning your summer vacations and activities: Noblesville Schools will be having elementary summer school classes from July 2nd through July 30th for students in grades K-4. A special remediation summer school program for selected second graders is being planned for July 30th through August 9th. More information will be available at a later date.


4-H Enrollment Deadline is April 1
Students are eligible to become 4-H members when they enter the third grade. Enrollment cards are available at the Hamilton County Extension Office, 2003 East Pleasant Street in Noblesville. Informational brochures are available in the school office. For more information, please call 776-0854.


Noblesville Schools Educational Foundation Grant
Congratulations to the parents assisting with the Spanish Enrichment Program for receiving a Noblesville Schools Educational Foundation Grant for $975 for supplies for the pilot program here Stony Creek Elementary. Some of the grant will also be used for the Family Fiesta Night scheduled for May 3rd in celebration of Cinco de Mayo.

Please help support the NSEF through membership and attendance at fund raising events such as their annual golf outing. Community support makes it possible for the Noblesville Schools Educational Foundation to continue to fund innovative educational projects such as this.


Breakfast For Champions
The Stony Creek faculty and staff will be sponsoring a family appreciation "Breakfast For Champions" for all Stony Creek families on Saturday, April 21st from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. Proceeds from this annual event will be applied to the ninth annual Stony Creek Scholarship. This award will be presented to a N.H.S. senior who attended Stony Creek and has intentions of studying elementary education in college. Please mark your calendar for this important "Mustang Tradition" and plan to support our former students and future teachers! Donations for the scholarship fund will be gladly accepted at any time.


Spring Flower Orders
Just a reminder that the deadline for spring flower orders is Friday, March 23rd. Additional order forms are available in the office. Pick-up will be on May 4th. Please call Jeanine Pottridge (770-9390) or Beth Murphy (776-0446) if you have any questions.


March 12, 2001

Mr. McDaniel's Memo
The following Life Skills were highlighted during the past grading period. Please review each of these with your children to show your interest and support. Thank you!

Perseverance: To keep at it.

Integrity: To act according to a sense of what's right and wrong.

Friendship: To make and keep a friend through mutual trust and caring.

Initiative: To do something of one's own free will because it needs to be done.


Brownie Book Drive Update
The Third Grade Brownie Book Drive was a huge success! Stony Creek students and teachers donated over 650 books. These books will benefit the Half- Pint Library at Riley Hospital and the Red Cross of Hamilton County. Thank you to everyone who participated in this worthy cause. We appreciate your generosity and support! Brownie Troops 981 and 1785


Learn To Swim and Water Safety Lessons At N.H.S.
There are a few spots still open in the second session of the Learn to Swim and Water Safety lessons being held at Noblesville High School on Mondays and Wednesdays, beginning April 16th. For further information, contact Deena Cooper, Learn To Swim and Water Safety Coordinator, at 770- 2889.


Media Fair Representatives
Congratulations to the following students for representing our school at the Media Fair held Saturday at White River: Matt (1st place Hyperstudio), Stephanie (2nd Place PowerPoint), Matt (2nd Place Photo Essay), Megan (2nd Place Photo Essay), Meghan (1st Place Slides), and Tommy (Best of Show ? Slide project produced by Mrs. Martin's class with assistance from Mrs. Glynn with masks and Mrs. Tetrick with research and media). Special thanks also goes to Mrs. Borse and the media center staff for their help and assistance: Mrs. Harting, Mrs. Croke, and Mrs. Klotz. GREAT JOB!


Dates To Remember
- Apple Reading Club - Monday, March 12, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
- End of Grading Period - Friday, March 16.
- Make-up day for December 19 will be on Monday, March 19, 2001 - School will be in session this day.
- Yearbook Orders Due - Tuesday, March 20.
- School Improvement Committee - Tuesday, March 20, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m.
- Early Release Day for Students - Thursday, March 22.
- Report Cards Distributed - Friday, March 23.
- PTO Carnival - Friday, March 23.
- Jump Robe for Heart - Wednesday, March 28.
- Movie Night - The Emperor's New Grove - Friday, April 20.
- Breakfast for Champions ? Saturday, April 21.

March is Music in our Schools Month!
- 4th Grade Spring Sing ? Monday, March 26, 7:00 p.m.
- 3rd Grade Spring Sing ? Tuesday, March 27, 7:00 p.m.



March 7, 2001

Mr. McDaniel's Memo
We are once again very saddened to hear the news of another school shooting in our country. It was another preventable tragedy had only one of several students or even an adult with information reported the threat to school and/or law enforcement officials. No matter how young your children might be, you can begin discussing now the importance of them telling an adult immediately when they hear of someone threatening to do something "really bad that could hurt themselves or others." Without causing undue alarm or fear, we can emphasize to children the need to let adults help stop problems before they happen.


Stony Creek Art Projects
Congratulations to the following students whose art projects were selected to be displayed at the Noblesville Public Library: Sandy, Karalee, Stephanie, Caroline, Emily, Madison, Melody, Tyler, Logan, Wesley, Mitchell, Spencer, Matt, Alexandra, Hillary, Anneliese, and Kelly.

We also want to congratulate Brady, Kayla, and Elizabeth for having their art work selected for display at the Superintendent's office. A special thank you goes to our art teacher Miss Gustafson for her help with these exhibits.


Science Fair
We want to thank our Science Fair Committee for all of their hard work and extra time with this year's program. Please join me in thanking Karen Goldstein, Edie Griffin, Traci Long, Amy Wagoner, Kathy Crosley, and Sally Borse. We also appreciate the help of our volunteer judges: Doug DeJarnatt, Bill Roberts, Michelle Johnson, David Johnson, Becky Clark, Mark VerBrugge, Tom Bleisch, and Fred Goldstein. The Dr. Bones project was a big success thanks to Bill Roberts, Karen Goldstein, Tom Bleisch, and Jay Merrell.

Congratulations to our fourth grade regional representatives: Maria and Diana. Winners of Stomp Rocket drawings were: Maria, Kyla, Wilson, Audrey, Katie, Andrew, Austin, Kent, Douglas, and Allison. Thanks to Mrs. Susan Schneider for providing these prizes!


Mrs. Griffin's Class
Mrs. Griffin's class was recognized recently for being the top selling room in this year's PTO fundraiser. They were given the opportunity to have someone catch cash in a "Money Machine." Their representative (the principal) was able to grab $79 for the class to use however they wanted. Additional money was donated to make the total $100! The students decided to donate the money to the Stony Creek Scholarship Fund. Mrs. Griffin rewarded her students with a pizza party. Thanks students for your generous donation!


Winter Dress
Please make sure your child is dressed appropriately for the ever-changing weather conditions. We will have outdoor recess within school guidelines, generally when the temperature or wind-chill index is above zero. Thank you.


Destination ImagiNation
Congratulations to the members of the Destination ImagiNation "Anonymously Yours" Team for winning first place out of 18 teams last weekend. Team members are Kaitlyn, Jordan, Apryl, Jennifer, Lauren, Molly, and Bailey. They will now move on to the state competition on April 21st. Good luck to the team from Stony Creek competing at the Destination ImagiNation regional tournament on Saturday, March 3rd at Hamilton Southeastern Jr. High School.


Girl Scout Troop 1693 "Diaper Drive"
The 4th grade Junior Girl Scout Troop 1693 will be conducting a Disposable Diaper Drive from March 12-30. After checking with the Red Cross, they found that the agency frequently runs out of disposable diapers to give to needy families. Those on public assistance cannot use food stamps to buy items like this. The girls are looking for all sized (newborn to pull-ups) and any brand (generic/store brands are much less expensive). Partial bags are fine, too. They will also accept coupons for diapers and monetary donations. Checks should be made out to G.S. Troop 1693 who will then go out and purchase more diapers. Thank you for helping with this community service project!

Also, be sure to enter the "Match the Girl Scout to her Baby Picture Contest!" The winner will be the person (student or staff) with the highest number of correct matches and will receive a free box of Girl Scout cookies! Collection boxes, contest posters, and entry blanks will be located in the front lobby by the office. Questions? Please call Carol Rea at 773-7267.


Volunteer Data Sheet

A reminder to parents that as part of School Board Policy #3121, an individual desiring to help as a volunteer in Noblesville Schools must complete a "Volunteer Data Sheet." This information will be kept on record to help us best use your talents to help our students. This form will also be used as a permission slip for a Criminal History Records check, required if you plan to volunteer in our schools for field trips and/or other school activities when you would have sole care, custody or control over students. We have experienced long delays in the past in the background check process from the Indiana State Police. If you are interested in helping with any field trips this spring and have not completed the application form, you must complete one now. Even if you turn your application in several weeks before an activity, we cannot guarantee that it will be processed in time by the State Police to have you approved. We apologize for this situation and hope you understand how part of this process may be d













elayed.


Did you know?
A report by the Secret Service, which analyzed 37 school shootings in 26 states since 1974, found that in more than two-thirds of those cases, the shooters felt "persecuted, bullied, threatened, attacked or injured by others." The Santana High suspect's friends said he had been picked on repeatedly. In almost all cases, the attackers acted not on impulse but after careful planning. More than half listed revenge as a motive. In more than three-fourths of cases, suspects told someone about their plans beforehand.

Education Secretary Rod Paige has been quoted to say the following in reacting to Monday's shooting: "I urge every parent and every student to listen closely to children who express concern, anger or fear concerning their school, their teachers and their classmates."


Parents' Points to Ponder:
Your child's trust is the most valuable thing you will ever earn.


March 5, 2001

Mr. McDaniel's Memo
"Best Wishes and Thank You Mr. Grimes!"
Mr. Jerry Grimes has announced his retirement from Stony Creek Elementary and Noblesville Schools effective April 27, 2001. He has worked in our system and at Stony for about 17 years. The cleanliness and upkeep of a school is one of the first things that everyone notices. Jerry has taken great pride and ownership in the appearance and condition of our building, and it shows! I often have visitors remark on the great way our school looks and is maintained. Please take time over the next few weeks to let Mr. Grimes know how much we appreciate his many contributions to our students, staff, parents, and community.
Mr. Joe Coonce, custodian at our Noblesville Middle School, has been named to take over the position of Maintenance Supervisor effective April 30. Please welcome him to our Stony Creek family.


NCA Data, School Attendance and School Calendar
At the bottom of this newsletter is the school calendar for 2001-2002. (Please note the correction from earlier school calendars for Mar of this newslettertin Luther King Day which will be on January 21, 2002.) It is important for students to be here every day possible. Please use this calendar to plan your trips and vacations as to not conflict with scheduled school days.

Stony Creek's average attendance is well above the state average. However, the school's rate is below the top school (by attendance) category by an average of almost one-half a percent over the last eight years. School attendance is a critical component for us to be a considered for another Four Star School Award.

PLEASE SAVE THIS CALENDAR FOR FUTURE PLANNING.

August 15 - First day of school
September 3 - Labor Day
October 16 - Parent conferences in the afternoon and evening. Students attend school for a half day.
October 17 - Half day of classes
October 18-19 - Fall Vacation
November 22-23 - Thanksgiving Vacation
December 21 - End of first semester
December 24-January 4 - Christmas Vacation
January 7 - Teacher Work Day. Students DO NOT attend class.
January 8 - Beginning of second semester.
January 21 - Martin Luther King Day. No classes.
February 14 - Parent conferences in the afternoon and evening. Students attend school for a half day.
February 15 - Half day of classes.
February 18 - President's Day. No classes.
March 18 - Flex Day. No classes unless the day is needed to make up a day lost due to inclement weather or other emergency situation.
April 1-5 - Spring Vacation
April 22 - Flex Day. No classes unless the day is needed to make up a day lost due to inclement weather or other emergency situation.
May 24 - Flex Day. No classes unless the day is needed to make up a day lost due to inclement weather or other emergency situation.
May 27 - Memorial Day. No classes.
May 30 - End of semester.
May 31 - Teacher Work Day/Flex Day. No classes unless the day is needed to make up a day lost due to inclement weather or other emergency situation.

Note: This calendar is subject to change as required to make up days missed lost due to inclement weather or other emergency situations. Days will be made up in the following order - March 18, April 22, May 24, May 31, June 3, June 4, June 5, June 6, and June 7.

Parents and staff: Please note that the week of June 3 through June 7 has been designatied as Flex Days in order to reserve these dates for school make-up days. Please take this into consideration when scheduling summer activities.

If the Noblesville School Board and the Indiana Department of Education approve "Waiver Days" for the 2001-02 school year, those will be added to the calendar before the school year begins. Waiver Days allow the teachers and staff to attend professional development activities.



February 27, 2001
Mr. McDaniel's Memo
"Have a Heart For Riley! Kids Caring & Sharing"
Thank you for "Having a Heart for Riley." Congratulations go out to our final groups of school assistants for this year!

Mr. McDaniel's Assistant Principal - Craig Kiley
Mrs. Park's Assistant Counselor - Tina Nicki
Mr. Grimes' Assistant Custodian - Kirstie Connor
Mrs. Tetrick's Assistant Librarian - Mackenzie Tori
Mrs. Higginbothem's Assistant Cook- Zach Anthony
Mrs. Nee's Assistant Nurse - Kourtney Allison
Mrs. Learned's Assistant Secretary - Audrey Lauren
Mrs. White's extra gym class - Caroline Kent
Mrs. Werbe's extra music class - Forrest McKenzie
Miss Gustafson's art class - Vince Riley

We have raised a total of $668 this month for Riley Hospital! Add to that amount the donations from our school, Allison Flynn's collection, and that of an anonymous donor, and Stony Creek Elementary School has raised a total this year of $2,020.26! Thanks for showing Riley Hospital how much we care.

Brownie Book Drive:
The Third Grade Brownie Book Drive has been a great success so far! Over 400 books have been donated to be given to Riley Hospital and the Hamilton County Red Cross. If your family has not made a donation, it is not too late! The drive continues through Friday, March 2nd. Simply go through your books at home and send to school any gently used ones that you no longer need. The books should be appropriate for children ages 4 - 12. What a great way for Stony Creek kids to show they care!

Destination ImagiNation
Good luck to the two teams from Stony Creek competing at the Destination ImagiNation regional tournament on Saturday, March 3rd at Hamilton Southeastern Jr. High School. Team members for the "Anonymously Yours" Challenge are Kaitlyn Barrett, Jordan Doyle, Apryl Garland, Jennifer Gill, Lauren Gill, Molly Rea, and Bailey Schelter. Team members for the "Incredible Tech-Effects" Challenge are Matt Carrell, Megan Carrell, Kevin Flynn, Kyla Garrett, and Jordan Newman.

PTO News
The Staff Appreciation Committee would very much like to thank all of the busy Moms who spent time baking homemade breads, cooking soups or chopping vegetables for the Teacher Luncheon on February 15th. The teachers were all very grateful to receive a hot, home-cooked lunch amid their Parent-Teacher Conferences. Thanks to Kim Brinegar, Julie Elmer, Tammy Elmore-Dove, Jeanne Fagan, Cindi Fogelsong, Linda Hamrick, Lisa Horsfield, Cindy Johnston, Linda Knoll, Laura Krivoshia, Debbie Masnyk, Lori Reichert, Judy Simpson, Donna Thompson, Sara Todd, and Sherry Watts.


Scholastic Book Fair
Thanks to everyone who supported the Scholastic Book Fair! It was a record spring fair! Our profit in books for the school library totals over $3,500. Way to go Stony Creek! Special thanks to all the volunteers who worked during the fair. We appreciate your support, and the children will certainly benefit from all the books we earned!
(From, Kim Brinegar and Sue LeVasseur.)

Dates To Remember
- PTO Movie Night - Friday, March 2, 6:15 - 8:15 p.m., 102 Dalmatians.
- 1st and 2nd Grade Testing - March 5 through March 16. Attendance is important!
- Apple Reading Club - Monday, March 12, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
- End of Grading Period - Friday, March 16.
- Make-up day for December 19 will be on Monday, March 19, 2001 - School will be in session this day.
- Yearbook Orders Due - Tuesday, March 20.
- Early Release Day for Students - Thursday, March 22.
- Report Cards Distributed - Friday, March 23.
- PTO Carnival - Friday, March 23.

NOTE: SPRING SING DAYS CHANGED DUE TO SCHEDULING CONFLICTS
- 4th Grade Spring Sing - MONDAY, March 26, 7:00 p.m.
- 3rd Grade Spring Sing - TUESDAY, March 27, 7:00 p.m.
We apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you.

Stony Creek Elementary School Improvement Committee
As part of our school improvement program, we will be reviewing and possibly revising our school's mission statement. Our teachers and staff and the School Improvement Committee will be working on this during the next few weeks. If you have any suggestions regarding our mission statement below, please write out a few comments or suggestions and send it to the school. We will then share your ideas and suggestions with the committee. Thank you for your interest and assistance. Mission Statement
Stony Creek Elementary School, in partnership with its families and community, is committed to providing all students with a complete education encompassing academic, social, physical, and emotional growth. While meeting the individual needs of all children in a stimulating, comfortable, non-threatening environment, we will encourage the development of responsible, democratic, disciplined, and productive citizens.

Help Wanted
Forest Hill is in need of a lunchroom/recess aide. Please call Mr. John Atha, Principal, at 773-3586 if you are interested.

Kindergarten Enrollment for 2001-2002
REMINDER: Kindergarten Enrollment for students who will be eligible to enter kindergarten next school year will be held April 16-20 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Students should enroll at the elementary school they will attend. At the present time, according to Indiana law, children must be five years of age on or before June 1, 2001 in order to enroll in kindergarten. Immunization records and original birth certificates are required! Please help us determine our enrollment for next year by sharing this information with neighbors and friends. THANK YOU!