The Pony Express

Trabuco Hills High School PTSA Pony Express 27501 Mustang Run, Mission Viejo, CA. 92691 (949)768-1934

www.thhsptsa.org
Volume 3 Issue 1 September 2012 Craig Collins, THHS Principal Rachel Ward, PTSA President

Trabuco Hills High PTSA Saddleback Valley Council PTA Fourth District PTA California State PTA National PTA Andrea Padian , Editor (Position Open)

Principals Message
By Craig Collins THHS Principal Craig.Collins@svusd.org
Welcome 20122012-2013 This school year brings some new faces to Trabuco Hills. The Administration welcomes two newcomers to TH. The first, Dan Bode, comes to us from El Toro High school after more than 20 years there. Mr. Bode was a Health teacher prior to becoming an administrator. He has worked in both the discipline role and as the Assistant Principal of Facilities and Athletics. His role as Facilities Administrator at THHS will be critical as plans for modernization have been put on hold by the State budget crisis. Keeping a 25 year old campus that gets used seven days a week running efficiently and safely is a challenge. Fortunately, he has the best plant manager in the district, Juan Medina, to assist him. Our other new Assistant Principal is Glenn Giokaris. Mr. Giokaris comes to us from El Modena High School

in Orange where he was a Social Science teacher and then Assistant Principal in charge of Discipline. He will be filling the same role here. He has experience in Positive Behavior Intervention (PBIS) and comes to us with a wealth of recommendations. We are very happy to have him here and look forward to his calm, yet firm, disposition guiding our students as they move through their high school experience. Mr. Williams remains the Assistant Principal in charge of Guidance, and Mrs. Kimble is still the greatest Activities Director on the face of the planet. In the Math Department, we welcome Navaz Kerawalla. She comes to us from Laguna Hills High School and will be teaching primarily Algebra classes. Our new French teacher is Maureen Kinney. Ms. Kinney has been out of education for the past few years raising her own children and we are excited that she is here at THHS for her return to the classroom. The Science Department has two, kind of, new faces. Tia Shields returns to us after one year at the intermediate schools. Gazelle Ghafoori was with us last year but she was scheduled to move to the intermediate school. We were able to get her back late this summer and we are very happy we did. In Traffic we have Garrett Gray. Garrett will also coach football at THHS and we share him with
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Inside This Issue Principals Message continued Message from Rachel Mustang Marvels Back to School Night Paper Drive Meet Mr. Bode & Mr. Giokaris Welcome Back Breakfast Keiras Counseling Corner Keeping Up w/Natasha-School News Membership Matters Adopt a Book Program 2012 College Fair

pg 2 pg 3 pg 3 pg 4 pg 5 pg 6 pg 7 pg 8-9 pg 10 pg 10 pg 11

What UP? Campus Life WUE Info Advocacy Action PTSA Membership Benefits Reflections 2012-13 Program Hours Count Help with No Cost Fundraisers 2012 College Fair School List 25 Questions to Ask College Reps Quiznos Flyer-Restaurant Night Grad Night 202Calendar/Volunteer Needs

pg 12 pg 12 pg 13-14 pg 15 pg 16 pg 16 pg 17 pg 18 pg 19 pg 20 pg 21 pg 22

Education is not continued onlife; page 2 preparation for education is life itself. ~ John Dewey The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows. ~ Sydney J. Harris

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Trabuco Hills High 2011-2012 PTSA Board Members

Rachel Ward, President Craig Collins Trabuco Hills High Principal Michelle Ramacher Executive Vice President & Convention Chair Christina Simon Vice President Membership & Silent Auction Chair Diane Williams Vice President Ways & Means Jessica Shipma,* Student Leader (President) Mike Padian, Treasurer Nicole Cassens, Financial Secretary Lisa Semon, Historian Linda Boud, Recording Secretary Louise Robertson, Auditor Suzann Gastreich, Parliamentarian Larry Hausner, Legislative/Advocacy Representative Joan Rosenberg, Foster Care Liaison Kim Saavedra, Volunteer Development Lisa Bauer & Andrea Padian, Grad Night Co-Chairs James Peredo, Webmaster Andrea Padian & Tonga Prather , Reflections Chris Burns & Liz Busch, College Fair Co-Chairs Tish Witkin, Arts Advocacy Chair Sheryl Titchener, & Andrea Padian Challenge Day Mike Padian, Mini-grant Chair Yvonne Arnett, Special Education Chair Michelle Wincek, Welcome Committee Chair Gabriela Peredo, Outreach Brenda Hanrath, Discount Cards & Restaurant Nights Jill Azuma, Ralphs & E-Script Chair Andrea Padian & Lisa Bauer, Taste of the Hills Chairs Diane Depreta, Teacher/Staff Appreciation Andrea Padian, Newsletter Editor Jenny Morgenstern, Drugs & Alcohol Prevention Jennifer Brase , Senior Scholarships & Award Night Michelle Gerry, Adopt a Book Chair Gloria Briones, Campus Beautification Chair Sharon Neubauer, Paper Drive Chair Mike Briante & Lynette Berke, Grant Writers Health Advocate, Kim Knoble Parent Education ChairsOPEN Publicity LiaisonOPEN

Principals Message
Silverado High School.

In Guidance, we have Haley Glasgow. Haley comes to us from the Irvine School District and she will focus on assisting our at risk students on campus, as well as our Foster Students and any homeless families. She has a very strong intervention background and I have no doubt that she will make a tremendous impact on our campus as she serves those populations. StartStart-Up 2012 The first two days of school went well. After the first two days we have more than 60 students then we were expecting. That may not sound like much in a school of 3100, but it really is and it causes the classes to be larger than we would like. If those numbers hold, we will be adding the equivalent of two full time teachers, or 10 classes. We will prioritize the classes based on the greatest needs and place them in the periods where the need is greatest and a qualified teacher is available. The selection process for the students moving into the new classes is entirely random. All students will gain by the smaller class sizes and we will do everything possible to minimize the disruption in student schedules. While disruptive, this is actually a positive thing. It means more students in the area are recognizing Trabuco Hills and the Saddleback School District for our excellent programs and activities and they are choosing to come here. I can think of no greater compliment than wanting to put your child on our campus for these critical years. Lastly, Id like to applaud the continuing efforts and success of our PTSA. Our school would not be able to accomplish its goals each year without their physical, ideological, and financial support. With that in mind, Id like strongly to encourage everyones participation in PTSA. Your annual dues are critical in helping the PTSA support the classroom needs that truly benefit your children and their education at THHS. When you join, however, youre not just providing financial support, but adding to the message of support it sends to our parents, students and teachers that you value the work we all do in support of education. Trabuco Hills High PTSA Student Board
Jessica Shipman, Student Leader/President
Open, Freshman Representative Open, Sophomore Representative Josh Nuzzo , Junior Representative Andie Wong, Senior Representative Chiara Burns, College Fair Chair Brendan Busch, Special Ed Chair Alayna Zuckerman, Grant Writer & Challenge Day Leader Julia Mihaylov, Newsletter& Website Natasha Behnam, Publicity Chair Nicole Peredo, Outreach Hadar Albo, Volunteer Coordinator James Padian & Duncan Bauer Grad Night Co-Chairs Alexa Simonton, Advocacy Airon Hojas, Reflections Chair Michelle Briones & Niki Neely, Campus Beautification Open, Membership Open, Paper Drives Chair

Teacher RepresentativeOPEN

Trabuco Hills High PTSA Pony Express Board Room.

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Thanks to all our board members, and committee chair persons. There are still some positions open so be sure to check the spots listed in this newsletter. Trabuco Hills High PTSA President jaynraen2@cox.net Thank you to all the parents who came to the Parent Freshman Orientation. It was nice to see so many of you and answer your questions. I hope to see many of Welcome back teachers, staff, parents, students and a you at our first meeting. special welcome to our incoming Freshmen and FreshOur first big event of the year is our College Fair which man parents! will be held on Monday, October 8th. Because of the My name is Rachel Ward and I am the PTSA President increased demand for this event it will be spread out not for the 2012-2013 School Year. I have been a past only in the main gym but the auxiliary gym as well. We president at Glen Yermo Elementary, as well as Auxil- will also have a special time allotted only for THHS iary President (3 years) and Treasurer (3 years) for students from 6:30 to 7:30 PM, although it will be open North Mission Viejo Little League. It has been a won- for all until 9 PM. Breakout classes will be spaced out derful surprise to see so many familiar faces during reg- so you will have plenty of time to visit before and after. istration. My son, James, is a Junior this year at THHS We expect over 120 colleges to attend this year. I hope and my daughter, Angela, has started classes at Orange many of you have read up on our Reflections Program Coast College in Costa Mesa. which was included in your registration material. This years theme is the Magic of a Moment and we hope to Thank you to all who have already joined our PTSA. get as many entries as possible. Arts is such an imporEveryone is invited to come to our first meeting on Monday, September 17th at 7:00 pm. Our first meeting tant part of your students education, and studies have will be to vote on our budget for the year and to discuss shown that it is an integral part in providing a persons ability to think outside the box and problem solve in a upcoming events such as our College Fair on October th th. growing and changing global economy. 8 and our Back to School Night on October 11 Let your voice be heard and attend the School Board Meeting at 6:30 PM on September 11th at the District Office

A Message from Rachel

Rachel

Mustang Marvels

A big thank you to Kim Saavedra, our new PTSA Volunteer Coordinator, for all her hard work recruiting volunteers to assemble registration packets as well as helpers for the Mustang Round UP, & to Candy Parr, devoted THHS staff member, who was coordinating both events. As always, August is a busy month, volunteers are priceless, & both events were big successes. With that said, another big thank you to all the packet stuffers and round up volunteers. We cant do it without you! Thanks also And last, but certainly not least, thanks to Diane Wilto Starbucks & Einsteins for supplying snacks and drinks for our volunteers during Round UPthey have liams, Ways & Means Vice President, and Brenda Hanrath, Discount Card Chair, for coming up with always been great supporters of our school & PTSA. another great PTSA Community Discount Card to sell In addition, we must thank all the parents that dothis year. They worked hard all summer to be sure we nated food for our returning teachers & staff at the were able to offer great discounts throughout the year PTSA Welcome Back Breakfast on the first day of to our school families. Buy one today!

school. Our school families always come through for these type events & we thank you very much. We can then spend funds in other areas that more directly help our students. As well, we want to thank all the volunteers that showed up to help with set up & clean up that morning at 6:30 AM!!!and especially our Teacher/Staff Appreciation Chair, Diane Depreta, who organized the entire event. Its always nice to see the teachers smiling faces on their first day backrefreshed, renewed and happy to see each other while enjoying a nice spread of breakfast treats.

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Help Support Our Teachers & School at the PTSA Back to School Night Paper Drive October 11th, 5:30 5:308 :15 PM
Help stock our school shelves with much needed paper to help get through the first semester so funds can be used for other things. The budget is very tight this year and last years paper drive was a huge success, so were hoping this year will be even better. We collected over 800 reams of paper last year. Help us do it again! Just bring in 1 ream of white copy paper to help, or bring in 2 reams and youll be entered into a raffle for one of five $25 gift cards to local restaurants. Collections points will be in the quad & 2 other entry points at the campus. The winning tickets will be drawn that night at 8:15 PM and winners will be notified the following day.
If you have questions or would like to help at the drive, (all students helping will receive community service hours) please contact the PTSA Paper Drive Chair, Sharon Neubauer at scorekeepersrule@aol.com

The PTSA thanks everyone for participating in this important drive. Go Blue!

Mark Your Calendars Now! PTSA invites you to our

2012 College Fair

@ Trabuco Hills High October 8th, 6:30 6:309 PM 6:30 6:307:30 PM (THHS Students ONLY) Breakout Classes will be Available

Trabuco Hills High PTSA Pony Express

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Meet Dan Bode & Glenn Giokaris, our New Administrators

We have two new administrators on our campus this year and Mr. Collins has highlighted where they came from in his message this month, but we sat down to learn more about them on a personal level...so meet our new assistant principals! they both answered together without hesitation, The kids! And it was clear, they both meant it.

So when it came to their personal goals in their new THHS roles, Mr. Giokaris said he is looking forward to the challenge of helping the students grow and improve. He said while he enjoys administrative work, he does miss the day to day relationships and opportunities to impact the students he Mr. Giokaris, (yes, he is half Greek) had as a teacher. But he also feels he can make an equally has been married for 4 years and is important impact in his administrative role as well, supportthe proud father of 9 month old twins, ing programs that will do that, too. Whether instructionally Glenn Giokaris, a boy and a girlso if he ever apor behaviorally, you want to support an environment where Assistant Principal of pears tired, youll know why. He has students feel valued and respected. You want them to grow, Discipline been a teacher and assistant principal whether in sports, drama, bandor whatever they love to in LA Unified many years and is now happy to be working do. Mr. Bode agreed, and added that his desire is to be a in the community where he lives. As we joked about his positive impact on TH...and he hopes that one day his tombyouthfulness, he stated that he was an old soul, but Mr. stone will read, You made a difference. Bode quickly chimed in to add, He was our best candidate and we are lucky to have him. He is the Assistant Principal So at the end of the day in high school, what is the most imof Discipline and looks forward to melding together his own portant thing you have to do differently from elementary or middle school as an administrator? The most important thing experiences and ideas with those of the THHS staff. to Mr. Giokaris is, ...to continue to fuel their passion and Mr. Bode has been married to his bride for 24 years and has curiosity. It is apparent to me that the they (the students) are two children: a daughter attending Baylor University; and a curious and interested...but at a certain point, you can get son, a junior, attending high school in Capo Valley. Mr. turned off. I want to encourage their curiosity and passion. Bode helped open RSM Intermediate as a health instructor Mr. Bode, agreed again saying that, You need to treat kids and has been in our district for almost 20 years. He of course with respect, as young adults, to treat them like normal peocame from ETHS most recently and we know he will love ple. You cant be condescending. He added that you have his new address at Trabuco, as Assistant Principal of Facili- 30 seconds to begin a relationship, where they know Mr. ties and Athletics. Bode as a person but also as someone with authority and boundaries.. When asked what they thought their biggest challenge would be in coming to THHS, they both responded that in So when they are not teaching, what do they do? Mr. Bode such a large and diverse school that while you want to get to describes himself as an adventure Junky. He loves to climb know all the kids, it is not easy. Mr. Bode commented that mountains and run marathons with his wife often joining the challenge is to be successful and provide the leadership him. They have been on mud runs and snorkeled the Great he is capable of to so many people. He said it has been a Barrier Reef. He has climbed Mr. Whitney and the tallest good experience, but that he has 3000 new relationships to peak in Australia. establish. You cant just stop a kid and ask how their weekend was...they want to know if you know their name. And, Mr. Giokaris, while pretty busy while it may take some time, he is intent on doing just that. with twins these days, also enIts not just about the A/C. Its about making the kids learn joys being active; surfing and and the teachers be the best they can be... and to get a CIF mountain biking, but admits he championship in every sport, he added with a smile. has a constant desire to learn, and read, and is especially interMr. Giokaris also mentioned that with 3100 students, it is ested in international and world hard to create programs and opportunities to get everyone affairs. involved and part of the school, to find their niche. He feels there are lots of opportunities out there, but that again, its Be sure to stop them and say hi difficult to form relationships to find the people who need to if you can catch them. They be connected. But he is eager and optimistic that he will do have been off to a very busy Dan Bode, Assistant Principal the job. When asked what they loved best about their job, of Facilities & Athletics year. Welcome to our school!

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PTSA Welcome Back Breakfast for Teachers & Staff

The PTSA welcomes back all our teachers and staffnew and old, toasting to another great year and much success for all. Our thanks to the parents that volunteered to help set up, break down and serve that morning, as well as the families that donated food & drinks to the event. Thanks to our Staff Appreciation Chair, Diane Depreta, for planning and helping to set up the event. Go Mustangs!.

Welcome Back!

Trabuco Hills High PTSA Pony Express

page 7 carts. Surprise them with something you know they will like or let them choose. Either way, you will be sending them the message that they are important and that you are available. Create a communication journal between you and your child. You can write about what a great time you had with them on your date or you can make mention that theyve been out-of-sorts lately and that you are available if they need to talk. Put the journal on their pillow with a note inviting them to write back if they want to. You may not get the journal back for a couple of weeks, or even months, but it opens the door for them to share something that they may otherwise keep to themselves. Make a message board out of a small cork board and put it in a central location. Have each family member write their name on (or even decorate!) an envelope and put it on the cork board. Create a place to hold small pieces of paper and a pen to encourage people to write messages to each other. Be sure to talk about guidelines as a family beforehand in order to keep the messages positive and friendly! Finally, be aware of your childs behaviors. When children need to talk to you they will let you know, sometimes in very subtle ways. Is she offering to help with dinner when she normally doesnt? Is he walking in and out of the living room just to see whats going on? If it seems like they are trying to get your attention, they probably are. Try making a general comment such as, How was school today? or Any plans for the weekend? to ignite conversation, and then let them lead. If they answer the question but dont offer anything more, let it be. Sometimes silence is the best way to get them talking.

Keiras Counseling Corner

Keira Merkovsky, LCSW

keiramerk@yahoo.com

Make time to connect in the midst of the chaos

School is in session! As you get back to the grind of bell schedules and extracurricular activities, may the memories of the radiant sun, the crashing waves, and the sand between your toes help you sail through the start of a new school year. For some, this is the start of their high school career. For others, it is the final chapter. For all, it is the reigniting of chaotic schedules, which means less time for families to connect and spend quality time together. While it may seem as though your teenager doesnt need you very much anymore, the opposite is actually true; they need you at this stage more than ever.

Teenagers are developmentally programmed to reject their parents ideals and test out their own as a way to create independence and a stronger sense of self. If your once sweet and cuddly shopping buddy is now telling you that youre lame and that she hates your sense of style, consider yourself a successful parent! But in this era of academic pressure, cyber-bullying, and a push to grow up too fast, your teenager desperately needs to know that you are available and ready to support them even as they push you away. Here are some things you can do to help keep your family connected and send the message that you are available to These are just a few ways you can encourage connecthem when they need you. tion within your family but there are many, many Have dinner as a family at least once a week, more. Ask other parents what they do to keep the repreferably on the same day each week. Children lationship with their teen strong, ask your childs and teens tend to share more information about friends what they like to do with their parents, or just what is happening in their lives at set, predictable Google it. Keep in mind that, ultimately, it doesnt events like dinners or family nights. matter what you do with your child; its the fact that Take your child on a date. Make it a habit for you are regularly making the effort to be with them each parent to take each child on a date once a that will make a lasting impact. month. It can be a Saturday morning bike ride to their favorite breakfast joint or dinner and go-

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The 2012-2013 school year is bound to be an eventful, exciting, and memorable one as our Mustangs take on By Natasha Behnam the school excelling in academics, athletics, arts, and Natsha.behnam1@gmail.com most importantly school spirit! If you have any questions about whats going on, or any important and exWelcome back to another great school year Mustangs! citing news you know about coming up at Trabuco, Its hard to believe the school year is already approach- please feel free to email me and let me know at nataing, but this year is bound to be a memorable one filled sha.behnam1@gmail.com. And as always, go blue with spirit, sports, and a lot of mustang pride. My name Mustangs! is Natasha Behnam and I am the publicity chair for this years PTSA board, here today to bring you all the exVarsity Football Schedule 2012 citing upcoming news about whats coming up! Sep. 7 AWAY game at Mission Viejo, vs. As you may have already heard, our varsity football Santa Margarita High School, 7pm team has already started off the year with two victories! Sep. 13 - HOME game vs. Huntington On August 24, Trabuco had its first home football High School, 7pm game against Dana Hills High School and beat them Sept. 21 - HOME game vs. Fountain Val17-14. The next game was on August 30 against Newley High School, 7pm (Disco Dance port Harbor High School, and the boys brought home Game & Dance) another victory with a score of 27-21. As usual, the Sept. 28 - AWAY game at Saddleback crowd was decked out in blue and gray to support our College vs. JSerra High School, 7pm school, and ASB was leading cheers to get everyone Oct. 5 - HOME game vs. Tesoro High pumped up. Theres a lot more of these exciting games School, 7pm (tailgate game) coming up, so on this page you will find our varsity Oct. 19 - HOME game vs. El Toro High football game schedule for this fall! School, 7pm (Homecoming Game) Oct. 26 - AWAY game at Mission Viejo vs. We have a lot more coming up other than a promising Mission Viejo High School, 7pm football season, such as Got Spirit and Disco Day in Nov. 2 - AWAY game at San Clemente, September, club rush in October, and something new vs. San Clemente High School, 7pm that were trying at Trabuco this year called TH days, a spirit day at school where everyone just dresses up in Trabuco gear and school colors to show mustang pride. The first one comes up on September 13! Our cross country team has also started off the year great with a successful time trial on September 1st. Their first race is coming up on September 7 at San Buena Venture State beach at 2pm. Our freshman this year also had a warm welcome at freshman orientation on August 31. With link crew president Makayla Wells, and VP, Steven Garland, running the show, the freshman played games, saw what spirit days

Campus News Keeping Up with Natasha

looked like, and were all partnered up with an upperclassman buddy to help make their adjustment to high school smooth sailing.

Mustang Varsity team celebrates their win over Newport.

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Go Mustangs!!! Go BLUE! Fall Sports Begins!

New Newsletter Section
Throughout the school year, the PTSA Pony Express plans to highlight activities at our school, outside PTSA and ASB events/ programs, so if you are in a club, play a sport, participate in band, or drama, or any other group at the school, feel free to submit photos of your events to go along with Natashas column (pg 8). Whether you supply photos, names or just a description of your event, well try to include it in upcoming issues. Send info or photos to Natasha at Natasha.behnam2@gmail.com and photos to Andrea at apadian@aol.com

The freshman cheer squad fired up the crowd at the first Freshman Football against Dana Point. Of course, the Mustangs were victorious!

Senior Varsity starting quarterback, Nathan Perry passes for a completion and touchdown against Newport

Varsity Players, JT Land & Spencer Herson celebrate a touchdown. Go

Class of 2013
Back Row: Brawley Osbourne, John Price, Mitchell Dixon, Kellen Tomiyama, Cole Breeland, Joe Porter, Zack Cody, Spencer Herson, Austin Tanner Front Row: Mike Gennette, Austin Switzer, Pearce Halderman, Jacob Ogle, Alex Staff, Aldo Gayton, Nathan Perry,

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Membership Matters!
Christina A. Simon PTSA VP Membership dunes2river@cox.net

Night and Challenge Day are both important events the PTSA makes possible for your kids to participate in. Please feel free to contact me anytime regarding membership at dunes2river@cox.net. And, dont forget to purchase a community discount card for only $10 with more than 30 vendor discounts you can use every day, all year.

Welcome back Mustang families! Thank you to the Thank you! Go BLUE! almost 700 members that joined PTSA during our Round Up! Your $15 membership DOES make a difference! By joining the PTSA, you have demonstrated to your children the importance of their education. If you haven't joined for this school year yet, please send in your membership ASAP! You can drop it off with our receptionist, Debi Hope, in the front office. We have some great events planned in the next couple months that your membership helps fund. College

Support our Library Collection Adopt a Book

Michelle Gerry Adopt a Book Chair michellegerry@cox.net
Wouldnt it be nice to have new books in the library? For many years now, in order to help balance a declining budget, funds have been moved from new book purchases to help offset the loss of funding so we can still run our schools. We even lost our librarians. How does that make sense in a high school? But, you can help. For just $20.00 your family can donate a fiction or nonfiction book and help replenish our bookshelves. And, for $100.00, you can donate a research bookany donation you provide will go towards new books.. The PTSA began this program a year ago and the response was great! We have not only purchased many lost or damaged books, but we have added to the collection of books available at our school. With matching funding from the PTSA, we also purchased a Scholastic program for the library that automatically buys books for each grade level appropriate for high school during the school year. We would like to do the same this year. All adopted books will have the name of the family who purchased the book inside the cover. Please use the form you received in your registration packet or download a form from our website, www.thhsptsa.org and follow the Adopt a Book link. Forms are also available in the office. Drop off the paperwork and your check in an envelope at the office with our receptionist, Debi Hope. All Adopt a Book families will be notified when your book is purchased and ready to be checked out. So far we have received over $800 in donations towards new books this year. Thanks to all our book donors! There will be a special rack for new books set up in the library. Check it out and look for more new books soon! Questions? Email Michelle at michellegerry@cox.net.

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Trabuco Hills College Night 2012

Chris Burns, Chair, chrisburns83@gmail.com Liz Busch, Co-Chair, ebusch@cox.net Chiara Burns, Student Co-Chair, Coyote.burns@gmail.com
This years College Fair promises to be better than ever with more schools, more parking, and more space. We expect at least 120 two and four year colleges and universities throughout the state and country to be on hand. Last year we had 39 in state schools, and 58 out of state schools. This year THHS students will be allowed entrance first between 6:307:30 PM to help alleviate over crowding as all schools in our district will be invited to attend. But, the college fair will be open from 6:309 PM for all students, including THHS, so make use of that special home turf advantage if you can. Youll also have more time to attend break out classes/workshops. surveying attendees to see where they are coming from and what grade they are in. Additional parking will be available on the upper baseball fields, so please cooperate with parking directors to help make parking as painless as possible. There will be no parking in the parking garage as that is reserved for college reps. We will need student and parent volunteers throughout the day, from set up to surveying, to directing people on campus and with parking, so if you can help, please notify one of our college fair volunteer coordinators. You can reach Kim at ksaavedra@c21superstars.com, or our student volunteer coordinator, Hadar Albo at hadaralbo@yahoo.com. All students helping will receive community service hourswhich all seniors need to graduate. On page 18 & 19, you will find the most up to date list of colleges attending as of this publication date, (we have 118 confirmed schools at this time) and 25 questions you could ask the college representatives when talking to them. Check the school website for more up-to-date lists in coming weeks.

Break out classes will be available as last year, and they will be held twice during the evening at 7 & 8 PM. Like last year, we will offer the following classes: NCAA, Financial Aid, and Princeton Review. We will not offer a WUE class (Western Undergraduate Exchange) but you can find out more about the program online. Go to www.wickhe.edu/wue for more details about attending an out of state school for near in state tuitions. If you go to the site ahead of the college fair, you can talk to reps from the schools you are interested in that evening. Over COLLEGE 150 schools participate in this program for new and 5:308:30 PM transferring students. 5:306:30 PM Begin you night early and enjoy Baja Fresh and Juice It 6:307:30 PM Up. All funds raised through your purchases will bring 7:00-8:00 PM back a percentage to the PTSA to help cover the costs of the College Fair. We are hoping to have some early entertainment as well, but those details have not been fi7:309 PM nalized. 8:009:00 PM Students from THHS will be available to help direct you to the rooms our breakout classes will be held in...right now planned for the theater, MPR & library. Last year classes were full, so arrive early for the best seating. Please be patient upon entering the fair as we will be

NIGHT SCHEDULE
Baja Fresh & Juice It Up College Rep Set up Trabuco Hills Students ONLY First Breakout Classes (Recommended for non THHS Students) All Students Welcome 2nd Breakout Classes (recommended for THHS Students)

The larger the island of knowledge, the

longer the shoreline of wonder.
~ Ralph W. Sockman

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may face this year. Better choices will be High School Continues made whether we By Julia Mihaylov, consciously dejulze97@cox.net cide on them or Student Newsletter Associate not - with experiSummer is, once again, at its end; meaning school, ence comes intelonce again, is ever so close. ligence. Lets conEvery new beginning comes from some other begin- tinue to make our high school exning's end. Seneca. perience the best Summer was amazing: no homework, sleeping in, we can make it: staying up late, beach days with friends, and no study- work hard, work ing to worry about. Nevertheless, most of us look for- smart, pepper in some fun and this year will no doubt be ward to our next year at school. Even with all the fantastic. work, school gives us a place to see our friends every Take up those opportunities youve been thinking day, meet new people, and have a story to tell every about over summer; create a club of your own with night. Even if we all dont admit it, school is great. friends; take that extra class youve been debating So, school is just starting, and everything seems as it about taking; and make new friends on the way. was last year, except this time, as a sophomore. FreshThis year will be as great as you make it, so go and man year was a blast: full of high school experiences, make it greater. new friends, and a whole new person. But instead of going from middle school to high school, its high Greatness is so often a courteous synonym for great school all over again; however this time with one extra success Philip Guedalla. year under our belt.

What Up?

Take this year and make it better than the last. Use the knowledge gained last year to aid us in whatever we

Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)

A Big THANK YOU to the Class of 2010 for their gift to the school! 10 new tables with Umbrellas for the Quad. ENJOY!

There are over 150 schools in the west from the Dakotas to the Pacific that participate in the WUE program where they offer in-state tuition to out-of-state students plus 50%. Each school offers a different plan and not all schools accepts all WUE applicants. Admission requirements vary by school, along with majors available, but all that information is online and easy to access. All applications for the WUE program must be made at the same time you apply to the school. Go to www.wiche.edu/wue and follow the links to find out which schools offer the program and what majors they accept as part of the program. This program is offered to both freshman and transferring students, depending on the school, so look at the website and all your answers will be there. Go to search schools and/or search majors. If you find a school you like, you should talk to that schools rep at the college fair for more info. (See page 18 for schools at the fair.)

Trabuco Hills High PTSA Pony Express

page 13 cuts. Our children deserve more than a new normal that maintains school funding at a level way below the national average. Proposition 38 starts to restore the California dream of a quality education for all our children. It truly establishes restoring and increasing education funding as the top priority. It also significantly and dramatically relieves the budget deficit $3 billion dollars every year for four years and millions more for eight more years by paying down state bond debt. This money can be used to support higher education and other important programs. According to a recent Urban Institute report, Access to quality education is the key to an informed citizenry, a skilled workforce, economic mobility, and a strong economy.

Advocacy Actions
By Larry Hausner Legislative/Advocacy Rep lhausner@usc.edu

YES on Proposition 38 Money for our Local Schools

From Carol Kocivar, President, California State PTA

Prop 38 makes that needed investment in our schools Imagine a kindergarten class that is small enough for a right now. Prop 38 generates revenue for this investment through a sliding scale income tax that asks the teacher to meet the individual needs of each young wealthy to pay the most. Multimillionaires pay 2.2% child. more, while many of those making $50,000 or less will Imagine an elementary school with a librarian.A pay little or nothing. For those who may be confused middle school that teaches art and music.A high how tax credits wipe out tax liability, let me quote the school with enough counselors to help our students independent state legislative analyst: Personal, detake the right courses to get into college. pendent, senior, and other tax credits, among other factors, would continue to eliminate all tax liabilities for Imagine restoring the instructional time that has been many lower income tax filers even if they have income cut from our public schools. in a bracket affected by the measures rate increases. This is what will happen in our local schools when Parents and families now reach deep into their own Proposition 38 passes. And that is why the California pockets to support our schools and supplement proState PTA helped write and is supporting Proposition grams for their children because California has failed to 38. Parents, families and voters throughout California meet its basic responsibility. believe adequate funding for our schools and access to Many spend more than what they will pay in taxes a complete quality education for all children are urgent when Proposition 38 passes. So, for many middle class priorities. It is time to STOP engaging parents and families, when Proposition 38 passes, it may feel like a communities in heartbreaking decisions on how to cut tax cut. Parents and communities understand that inmore out of our schools and to START engaging parvesting in quality education is everyones responsibilents and communities in the important decisions on ity. Everyone benefits: Our children, our state, and our how we can restore programs and services in every nation. school in California. Proposition 38 guarantees billions of dollars in new money for our schools, averag- The question California voters need to decide is this: ing $10 billion annually over twelve years. This money Do we continue to deny an entire generation of children goes directly to every one of our local schools based on the quality education they deserve or do we do the right enrollment. Let me repeat: New money. Every school. thing right now? Guaranteed. Prop 38 is clear. Its straightforward. It Proposition 38 is the bold step needed right now to creates real accountability. It ensures the new money transform Californias public schools and ensure that will be spent on educational programs and services we every child has the opportunity to succeed. know help our children succeed. Proposition 38 puts Imagine ... just imagine what we can all accomplish if the money right in the classroom, where it belongs. we work together for Californias children. Our children deserve more than just preventing deeper continued on page 12

September 2012, Volume 3, Issue 1

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Advocacy Actions

continued from page 11

PTA POSITIONS ON BILLS CURRENTLY BEFORE THE CALIFORNIA STATE LEGISLATURE

575 ( Lara) Pupil fees. PTA Position: Support Summary: This bill would prohibit a pupil enrolled in a public school from being required to pay a pupil fee, as defined, for participation in an educational activity, as defined, as specified. The bill would provide that this prohibition is not to be interpreted to prohibit solicitation of voluntary donations, voluntary participation in fundraising activities, or school districts, schools, and other entities from providing pupils prizes or other recognition for voluntarily participating in fundraising activities. The bill would specify that these provisions apply to all public schools, including, but not limited to, charter schools and alternative schools, are declarative of existing law, and should not be interpreted to prohibit the imposition of a fee, deposit, or other charge otherwise allowed by law.

PTA Advocacy Goals 2012-2013

California State PTA is an association of nearly 1 million members throughout California working to improve the lives of all children and families with the motto, Every child, one voice. Membership is open to everyone. Guided by our members, the California State PTA has adopted the following advocacy goals for 2012-13: Adequate funding for education to ensure every child has the opportunity to meet his or her full potential. Prevent bullying and cyber-bullying. Access to a full curriculum for every student that includes physical education, arts, and STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). Support children's health by promoting healthy lifestyles and putting health and support services within reach. Support the needs of vulnerable children. Promote greater and more meaningful family engagement

SVUSD
Board of Education Meeting
September 11, 2012 6:30PM SVUSD Board Room

Dont miss the FIRST THHS PTSA Meeting

SVPTA sponsored

Monday September 17, 2012

7 PM in the MPR
Get Informed, Join PTSA, Buy Discount Cards, Adopt a Book for our library, find out about upcoming events like the College Fair

Candidates Forum

October 17th, 2012 7:00 PM

SVUSD Board Room
Get to know who is running for the SVUSD school board so you can make an informed decision about your children's futures

Let your voice be heard!

Student Leader & ASB Reports Committee Reports Grad Night Information Reflections Program Information

Trabuco Hills High PTSA Pony Express

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Special Savings for PTSA Members

The following companies represent PTAs & PTSAs Member Benefits Providers. Please visit PTA.org/benefits for more information and to access discounts. SHARP PTA members receive discounts from Sharp ranging between 15-50% on a wide array of Sharp & more, when purchased from a discounted online site for PTA PTSA members.

Hertz The worlds largest airport general use car rental brand, operating from approximately
8,500 locations in 146 countries world-wide is proud to offer PTA members up to 20% off using discount CDP #1929580 every time you reserve. Check out Hertz.com/PTA for more savings: * Get special promotions in addition to your discount * Enjoy fee waived Hertz #1 Club Gold enrollmenta $60 savings * Earn free rental days and receive expedited service * Receive up to 20% discount CDP#1929580

MetLife Auto and Home has special group discounts now available to PTA/PTSA members. In addition to the PTA group discounts, this program also includes the following features at no additional charge (some restrictions apply): * Deductible savings benefit * Replacement costs for total loss on new cars * Replacement costs for special parts * Enhanced rental car damage coverage * Identity protection services

OfficeMax PTA members can save on supply essentials and more at Office Max! You will find everything from backpacks, binders, and pens, to paper, art supplies and furniture. You can even make copies and print flyers, student presentations, and party invitations -all in store at the OfficeMax Impress Print Center. Ready to shop? Visit your member Benefits page to access exclusive savings. T-Mobile Americas largest 4G network, and National PTA have partnered together to bring PTA/PTSA members exclusive discounts on wireless mobile services and equipment. All PTA?PTSA members receive special discounts on selected promotional devices, exclusive discounts on monthly service charges, and waived activation fees on T-Mobile \ products and services. Social Scout is proud to partner with PTA to bring PTA?PTSA members exclusive discounts on an online parental
intelligence system. Social Scout helps you monitor and quickly analyze your childs social networking and mobile phone activity while safe guarding their privacy and reputation on sites such as FaceBook, My Space and Twitter. All PTA?PTSA members will receive a 10% discount on all levels of Social Scout Monitoring Services. eTrak (powered by Verizon) helps PTA?PTSA parents always know their children are safe with its revolutionary new location tracking device. For a limited time only, PTA?PTSA members can order the device for free (regularly $99). There is an activation charge of $39 and a monthly fee of $15. This light weight, domino sized device, uses highly accurate, patented GPS Plus technology to show a childs location on any smart phone or computer. And in case of an emergency, the device sends messages with its location at the push of a button to multiple recipients.

Barnesandnoble,com have developed a discount online bookstore for PTA?PTSA members features over 1 million
titles of books, textbooks, audio-books, CDs, DVDs, and videos. Members will save 5% on all purchases ordered from this site in additions to any normal site discountsup to 40%.

Southwest Airline Vacations is offering PTA?PTSA members a 5% savings on more than 40

exciting destinations.

Alliant Credit Union making its products and services available to all PTA?PTSA members.

September 2012, Volume 3, Issue 1

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Reflections 20122012-2013

The Magic of a Moment

Reflections Co- Chairs, Andrea Padian , apadian@aol.com, Tonga Prather, Reflections Co-Chairs& Airon Hojas, Student Co-Chair
What is the PTA Reflections Program? Because the PTA considers the arts to be crucial to a rounded education, they want to encourage participation by students in this outstanding program. The Reflections program is a competition where students produce works of arts in one or more categories: Visual Arts, Photography, Music, Dance Choreography, Video/ Film Productions, and Literature. There is a theme for all the work and it is important to keep that in mind because over 50% of the judges scoring is based on how students incorporate the theme into their projectso its vital to give the theme careful consideration. This years theme is The Magic of a Moment. ier than you think. But you have to tryso submit an entry this year. All questions and inquiries can be made to our Reflections Chairs. This year the PTA has also added another area just for our special education students. There is only one winner, but they may submit entries in any of the six categories. For other students, there will be 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in each of the six categories.

For rules and more information about the program, go to the state PTA website at capta.org: click on programs, then Reflections. The state site showcases past winning entries in all age categories. Check it out for inspiration! Then go to the area you are interested in Winners from THHS will be announced in November. to see the full set of rules you will need to follow in Those entries then move on to the SVPTA order to submit your entry. Entries are due October (Saddleback Valley PTA) for continued judging 11th, before school that morning. You will find a (competing against LHHS), and those winners move PTSA table in the quad to drop them off. If you need on to the Fourth District PTA (which includes all of to make special drop off arrangements, please email Orange County and a small corner of LA County). Andrea at apadian@aol.com to work out a plan. No Then, if we have winners at that level, they will go late entries will be accepted. All entries should have a forward to the State PTA, and eventually, the state paper attached on the back listing the students name, winners are judged at the national level. Over 500,000 phone number, email address, name of the entry, and students participate in the Reflections program so we an artist statement about why the work reflects the are hoping to get more entries for a school our size theme: The magic of a moment than previous years. Its quite an honor to win and eas-

Every Second Counts Please Track Your PTSA Hours

Dont forget to log the hours you spend doing PTSA activities. That would include meetings, errands, drive time, telephone calls and emails, planning, volunteering and more. Anything you do to help the PTSA counts. At the end of the year, counting all those hours really adds up and it shows the District, as well as legislators in Sacramento and beyond, the amount of time we spend helping with education. We dont want to be short changed! So if you havent kept track until nowstart! When a dollar amount is added in place of the hours, you would be amazed at the amount of money saved through our efforts. Make sure to pass your hours on to our Historian, Lisa Semon at email4Lisa@cox.net . Go Blue! Every minute COUNTS!

Trabuco Hills High PTSA Pony Express

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How Can YOU Help Support Our PTSA, Students & Teachers?
DONATION BIN: We have a donation bin in conjunction with Community of Change. Please donate your old clothing, towels, blankets, sheets, rags, purses and shoes! All textiles will be accepted. The PTSA will receive a dollar back for every 50 pounds of donations collected. The bin is located on the Santa Margarita Pkwy side of the school near the tennis courts, on the road that leads to the front of the school. You can just pull up to the bin and drop off your goods. Do it throughout the year! SPREEBIRD(formerly Screamin Daily Deals): Want to get a great deal on food, entertainment, massages, hair care and more? Check out Spreebird! You will get about 3 deals per day from local businesses. Purchase your deal, print the coupon and enjoy savings up to 70%! Sign up on the PTSA website, or www.spreebird.com, choose THHS PTSA as your school to support! Its free and our school is entered in a 100K giveaway based on new sign ups. KEY TO SAFE DRIVING: Protect your teen from texting & talking on their cell phones while driving! It does allow your teen access to 911 and parents in case of an emergency. The device is $95.00 and can be purchased from the PTSA website. ITALIAN ICE: Sold every Thursday from 2pm to 4pm in front of the school. Cost is $3.00 per cup and supports PTSA. Yummy, too! RECYCLING: Drop off your used printer cartridges, laptops, digital cameras, and cell phonebroken or otherwise in the office recycle box. If you know a business that would donate their old recycles, we can pick them up. Email Brenda at brendahanrath@cox.net for info. RALPHS & E-SCRIP: Go to the PTSA website at www.thhsptsa.org and sign up your Ralphs Club Card or Vons/Pavilions card with the Ralphs Community Contribution Program and/or EScript program. Its easy and a percentage of all your purchases will go back to the school/PTSA. It costs no money and doesnt take away from your own rewards. Don t wait! Do it today. Families can raise thousands of dollars this way, but not if you dont sign up. SIMONS AUTO BODY, INC: When you go to have your car fixed at Simons and mention the Trabuco Hills PTSA, he will donate 10% of the total bill back to our PTSA! The shop is at 23551 Commerce Center Dr., Laguna Hills, 949-951-5265.

Eat Out and Help our School

Purchase Our New THHS PTSA Community Discount Card & SAVE
every day on Food, Car Services, Activities, Salons and much more!

Join students, families and faculty to make our restaurant fundraisers successful. Be sure to print and bring a flyer before you go or just mention you are here for the THHS fund raiser. You can find flyers before the event on the Daily Announcements in PDF form, pick one up at the office or download and print the flyer from the PTSA website at www.thhsptsa.org/ before you leave to eat. A percentage of your purchase will go towards purchasing paper and soft supplies for teachers and classrooms. Our September restaurant is Quiznos in Rancho Santa Margarita.

Wednesday, September 13th, 10 AM8 PM Quiznos, 29880 Santa Margarita Parkway, in Rancho Santa Margarita

31 Vendor discounts to use every day until the end of August 2013. Earn your money back after just one purchase in many cases!!! Email Diane at dmwilliams@swlaw.com OR

Brenda at Brendahanrath@cox.net
for info &/or to buy a card. today. Help PTSA help our students, teacher & school and SAVE!

September 2012, Volume 3, Issue 1

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2012 College Fair FairMonday, October 8th

Hosted by Trabuco Hills high School Sponsored by Trabuco Hills High PTSA & Laguna Hills PTSA & Saddleback Valley Education Foundation
Air Force Academy Air Force ROTC SW-2 Alliant International University Arizona State University Azusa Pacific University Bates College Biola University Cal Poly Pomona Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Cal State East Bay Cal State Fullerton Cal Sate Monterey Bay Cal State Sacramento California Baptist University Chapman University Colgate University College of Idaho Colorado State University Colorado State UniversityPueblo Columbia College Chicago Columbia University Concordia University Culinary Institute of America Dixie Sate College Dominican University of California Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising Fort Lewis College George Mason University Harvard College Hawaii Pacific University High Point University Hope International University Humboldt Irvine Valley College Johnson & Whales University Kansas State University La Sierra University Lasell College Lawrence University Loyola University Chicago Marist College Marymount College UCLA Maryville University University of Alabama Mass College of Pharmacy & Health University of Arizona Sciences University of Arkansas Michigan State University University of Colorado Musicians Institute University of Illinois at Urbana/ National Golf University Champaign Naval Academy University of Kansas New School of Architecture & Design University of La Verne Northern Arizona University University of Minnesota Notre Dame de Namur University University of Montana Ohio State University University of New Mexico Oklahoma City University University of North Carolina Asheville Orange Coast College University of Northern Colorado Oregon State University University of Notre Dame Pacific University University of Oregon Point Loma Nazarene University University of San Diego Rensselae Polytechnic Institute University of San Francisco Rice University University of Southern California Rutgers University University of the Pacific Saddleback College University of Utah Saint Johns University University of Victoria Saint Marys College of California University of Virginia Saint Thomas University University of WashingtonSeattle Samford University University of WashingtonTacoma San Francisco Art Institute University of Wisconsin Madison Savannah College of Art and Design Vanguard University School of the Art Institute of Chicago Washington State University Sierra Nevada College West Point SOKA University Western State College of Colorado Sonoma State University Westmont College Southern Methodist University Whittier College Southern Utah University Woodbury University Suffolk University Yale Temple University An investment in knowledge always UC Berkeley pays the best interest. UC Davis ~ Benjamin Franklin UC Irvine The aim of a college, for the individual UC Merced student, is to eliminate the need in his UC Riverside life for the college; the task is to help UC San Diego him become a self-educating man. UC Santa Barbara ~ George Horrace Lorime UC Santa Cruz

Trabuco Hills High PTSA Pony Express

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College Night 2012

Twenty Five Questions to ask College Admissions Representative

1. What are the colleges academic specialties? What programs are particularly strong or competitive? 2. What makes your college distinctive? 3. What are the academic credentials of the typically admitted student? (ACT/SAT/ class rank, GPA). 4. Are extracurricular activities considered when making admission decisions? 5. Do you offer career planning and placement at graduation? 6. Is residence housing guaranteed? Is living in the residence halls required? What percentage of students live on campus? 7. What do students do when they are not in class or studying? - Clubs, fraternities, sororities, etc. 8. What percentage of classes are taught by professors, and what percentage by teaching assistants? 9. What are the deadlines for application and for financial aid? 10. When are notifications of acceptance sent? 11. Is there specific job placement data available for recent graduates in your field of interest? 12. What percentage of the freshman class return for their sophomore year? 13. What is the student to faculty ratio? 14. What honors programs are available? Is there honors housing? 15. What percentage of students leave campus on the weekend? 16. What percentage of students receive financial aid? 17. What type of scholarship opportunities are available? 18. Is the college on the quarter or semester system? 19. Does the college have a monthly payment plan for payment of fees? 20. Are freshman permitted to have cars on campus? 21. Who takes care of students that are sick? 22. What kinds of academic assistance are available? 23. What security measures have been taken to assure the students safety? 24. How are roommates assigned? 25. Should students bring their own computers?

September 2012, Volume 3, Issue 1

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Trabuco Hills High PTSA Pony Express

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Grad Night 2012 Update

Grad Night Co-chairs Andrea Padian @ apadian@aol.com Lisa Bauer @ isakaybauer@yahoo.com
Plans are underway to make this years Grad Night one of the best ever. Led by a Student Board of eight, the theme is being considered, along with location and other event details. As always, the location will not be revealed for numerous reasons...preventing students from attending without paying, inviting students from other schools or classes, and most importantly, preventing students from being able to go to the site ahead of time to plant drugs and or alcohol, which is not allowed at this safe Grad Night alternative. As some plans emerge, we will let you know more and more about things that will go on during the evening. All food and drinks are includedfrom multiple meals to multiple snacks. As in previous years, one highlight for the evening will be the Hypnotist Show. It is one of the funniest events of the night. Dancing, music & fun will be provided with buses returning to school at 6 AM the following day. Students are not allowed to park their cars at the school overnight and must be picked up the next day. If some students need special accommodation (such as special need students, students with dietary restrictions, etc.), they should contact Andrea or Lisa (Co-chairs) by email. All students will leave the campus shortly after the graduation ceremony is over. They must have an ID to board buses. Dress should be warm for the early morning hours. Be prepared to have fun! Purchase tickets before the winter break to save money as prices go up January 1st. We do have payment plans available to help and participation in a plan locks in the Round Up price of $160, though accounts must be paid in full by the end of March 2013. If you wait until the end of the school year to purchase a ticket, space may not be available and prices increase to $200. So plan early for this event. Turn in all paperwork with your payment. Dont forget to sign the paperworkstudent & parent. There are no refunds after December 31, 2012.

Purchase Coupons for a Santa Margarita Ford Car Wash to help Raise Money for our Grad Night Scholarship Fund

Only $5 MonMon-Sat. 9 AMAM-4 PM

Currently coupons valid through SeptemberPLEASE HELP! Email apadian@aol.com to purchase

Raise $$$$ for your Grad Night Ticket Car Wash Opportunities
Need help paying for Grad Night? How about spending a day or two helping at a car wash? All money raised by students participating in this fund raising program divide all earnings from the car wash, including tips, to go towards their accounts. You an also sell car wash tickets to Santa Margarita Ford as mentioned above. If you dont make some effort to earn some money to pay for your Grad Night ticket, we will not be able to help you financially with scholarship funds unless you are in foster care, living on your own, or in dire need of help and already working. If that is the case, please contact us right away. All students requesting assistance will be assured of privacy regarding any arrangements made to accommodate them. Email one of the Grad Night Chairs to sign up and participate. We also need additional helpers (14 and older) who will receive community service hours for helping at one of our car washes. We are currently looking for a parent to organize these car washes. We are hoping to do several this year in order to help our students out. Email Andrea at apadian@aol.com if you can help.

Current price is $160. Make check payable to THHS PTSA

September 2012, Volume 3, Issue 1

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Mark Your Calendar...

Trabuco Hills High

September 6th September 11th September 17th September 18th September 24th September 26th October 8th

October 9th October 10th October 11th

October 15th October 17th

First Day of SchoolWelcome Back!!! SVUSD Board of Education Meeting, SVUSD Board Room 6:30 PM PTSA Association Meeting, MPR 7 PM * 2012-2013 Budget Vote Tufts University Workshop/Writing a Successful College Application, Sage High School, 7 PM Collaboration DayEarly Dismissal Fall Recess DayNO SCHOOL *Collaboration DayEarly Dismissal *THHS College Fair, Gyms, 6:30-9 PM (THHS only from 6:307:30PM) *Break out Classes held during this time, schedule to be announced SVUSD Board of Education Meeting, SVUSD Board Room 6 :30 PM Senior Parent Night *Minimum Day *Reflections Entries Due today before school in Quad by Attendance Window *Back to School Night *Paper Drive * Get a raffle ticket for every 2 reams of paper you donate at PTSA table or PTSA drop off location (at entries to quad area at school) PTSA Association Meeting, MPR 7 PM SVPTA Sponsored Candidate Forum for 3 Open spots on the School Board, 7 PM, SVUSD Board Room

Volunteer Helpers Needed

October 8thCollege Fair Helpers: Students! Receive Community Service Hours & help deliver water to our college representative during the evening, direct attendees to the gyms & break out classes, tally attendee statistics, hand out college lists/maps, help college fair representative set up their booths/carry some of their paperwork & brochures into the gyms, act as greeters, & help with set up & break down. Adults! Needed for parking, check in, volunteer coordination, & set up/break down. You can all sign up for a shift & still attend the fair & some break out classes. To volunteer, email Kim at ksaavedra@c21superstars.com or Hadar at hadaralbo@yahoo.com or Chiara at coyote.burns@gmail.com. October 11thReflections Collections: We need a few parents on hand to help with Reflections entry col-

lections before school between 6:458:30 AM. Email Andrea at apadiana@aol.com to help. Parent & Student Education Chair for the PTSA Board: Help coordinate education nights for parents and/or students throughout the year. Contact Rachel at jaynraen2@cox.net for more information. December 10th, 11th, & 12thChallenge Days: We need adults to help with lunches, to help check in volunteers & student participants in the morning (between 7-8:15 AM) and to help as adult facilitators/leaders during the entire day (between 7:30 AM3:30PM). To find out more or to volunteer, please email Andrea at apadian@aol.com or Sheryl at sheryltitchener@gmail.com. It is a long way off, but we have to have our adult helpers in place by November. Its an amazing program. It will change your life.