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October 26, 2009
Superintendent’s Message
Dear Staff,
Earlier in the fall, I attended a local Arizona School Boards Association conference. Like most of us in the education profession who are lifelong learners, I truly enjoy hearing about other people’s ideas and experiences. One session I attended was particularly interesting and something that surprised me. I am not one who responds well to “gimmicks” or sensationalized approaches to learning and was somewhat skeptical of attending a talk at the conference where a person was going to come dressed as Thomas Jefferson (yes, with the white wig and everything) and share his perceptions about the country.
I have to say that the experience was surprisingly profound and made me think deeply about the importance of the role education plays in our democracy. Mr. Jefferson was very clear about the differences in philosophies and opinions among the Founding Fathers, but talked about how critical all of that debating and advocacy was in creating a whole new system of government that would be part of the new nation. Mr. Jefferson stated that the result of all of the agonizing and somewhat frustrating discussions was that we (meaning us) were given a comprehensive set of tools to ensure that we would be able to effectively govern ourselves. That was the dream of those who created this country. Mr. Jefferson told us, however, that we rarely use the tools that were so painstakingly given to us and offered that as his major observation and criticism of contemporary America.
As educators, it is important that we model and teach how to effectively use the tools we have at our disposal to govern ourselves. Our students must learn how to be actively engaged in understanding and debating about the issues of the day and to use the system to create a better country and world for all. Let’s continue to think about how we encourage this in ourselves and our students as we face the challenges and issues of these times.
David
Immunization Info for Employees
One of the best ways to prevent Influenza is to get a flu vaccine. Since the vaccination clinic at the District Office has passed, we have researched other resources for you. Free Seasonal flu vaccine is also available for adults at the Immunization Clinics sponsored by Chandler Regional Hospital. Clinics are held throughout the year and info on locations and dates is available at 480-728-3777 or online at www.mcchip.org. Clinics coming up in our area are:
Oct. 31, Saturday 8-11 am
Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Pecos Campus, 2626 E. Pecos, Chandler
This is a free “walk-up” clinic for all adultsNov. 3, Tuesday 3-5 pm
Kyrene de las Lomas, 11820 S. Warner-Elliot Loop, Phoenix
The above clinics offer the flu vaccine on a first-come, first-served basis and while their supplies last.
TRP Winners and Updates
August Drawings Winners:
Steve Smith ~ Facilities
Karen Cowee ~ Colina
Ben Wehunt ~ D.O.
Debbie Long ~ Waggoner
September Drawings Winners:
Kristal Hoeh ~ Brisas
Debbie Long ~ Waggoner
Shelly Peckins ~ Aprende
Pat Jackson ~ Monte Vista
Lisa Heck ~ Estrella is the winner of the HPA Drawing for September 30
You may have noticed there are more winners than usual; this is due to a change in web portals from Valley Metro and not everyone was able to register before the summer break and it was decided to double up on the winners for 3 months (the last will be October’s drawing).
In addition to the $20 gift card from Kyrene, registered AMUs are also eligible for the separate drawings that Valley Metro has available on their website (these include tickets to ASU games, car washes, etc.).
If you are interested in participating, please go the link below and “Register As A New User” to become an active participant in the program
http://sharetheride.valleymetro.org
This is open to all Kyrene employees even if it is only one (1) work day a month. The alternative methods are carpooling, biking, walking or taking the bus. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Paula Kolb on x4202.
Press Releases October 12-23
Kyrene Schools Community Foundation Fundraiser
Cross Country Meet and Athletic Benefit
Akimel A-al Annual Multi- Cultural Fair
Sports Physicals for Kyrene Athletes
Free Mouthguards for Kyrene Student Athletes
Specials and Discounts for Educators and Staff
District employees can save on a variety of services
Through the years many companies have offered discounts to our staff. In this issue of INSIDER, we've begun the process of creating a listing by category of those discounts. With proper identification, the following discounts are open to all Kyrene employees. Please contact specific companies for details and restrictions as offers are subject to change.
» Books, Supplies and Teaching Aides
Other offers will be included in future editions of the Insider.
Please let us know what you think of this publication. Send your comments, questions, and suggestions to: kalexa@kyrene.org.
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