BHS PTSA News
November 3, 2019
Important Dates
Nov. 3 | Daylight Savings Time ends, move clocks back one hour
Nov. 4 | BPA Orchestra Concert, 7:30 p.m. Performing Arts Center (PAC)
Nov. 5 | Election Day
BHS Mock Election & Voting Activities
Nov. 6 | BPA Band Concert, 7:30 p.m. PAC
Nov. 11 | Veteran's Day, no school
Nov. 16 | Senior Grad Ads due
Nov. 16 | BPA Spotlight Dinner & Benefit Auction, 5:30 p.m. Swedish Club
Nov. 27 | Normal Wednesday Bell Schedule, 8:45 a.m. to 2:20 p.m.
Nov. 28-29 | Thanksgiving Break, no school
ALL SCHOOL NEWS
Students at Ballard are once again participating in a Mock Election, which is being led by a group of BHS students. This year there are two ballot initiatives, two candidate votes, and two advisory votes on the student ballot that will be passed out on Tuesday.


  • Representatives from Common Purpose will be pre-registering students 16 years old or older to register to vote in the real election next year.

  • State Senator Reuven Carlyle (and possibly School Board member Eden Mack) will be speaking to students about State Government, elections and the various ballots measures in the library during second period (9:40- 10:30 a.m.). This talk is also open to parents and guardians.

Visit Mock Election News  for links to issues and election information.
It’s That Time of Year … The PTSA DIRECT APPEAL!
Every year the PTSA holds a ​ Direct Appeal​ to raise funds to support academics at Ballard High School. The funds raised through the Direct Appeal are used to ensure that Ballard High School can continue to offer rigorous, indepth, inquiry-based coursework.

Funds raised through Direct Appeal are used to support ​Academic Excellence​ at Ballard High School. In the past, the funds have been used to purchase:

Telescopes • Music Composition Materials• SMART InteractiveBoards
Art Supplies • Microscopes • Molecular Models • Foreign Language
Learning Software • English Literature Materials • Centrifuges
Spectrophotometer • Lab Tables • Laptops • Bathymetric Charts

Please help us raise ​Money for Academics ​ by donating on the link provided: http://www.ballardhighschoolptsa.org/donate

Corporate matching is an important part of a successful Direct Appeal, so ask your employer whether it will match your donation. Indeed, many companies will match 100% of their employees’ donations.

All donations are tax deductible. ​ THANK YOU!
ATHLETICS
BHS Football makes the headlines
Congratulations to the Ballard High School Football Team for getting this great write-up in the Oct. 31 Seattle Times! Ballard Pride!

Update! The Ballard Beavers advance to the Playoffs! Go Beavers!
Cross Country teams advancing to districts
From the Ballard Cross Country coaches: The 2019 Cross Country team continued its strong tradition at BHS. Over 100 runners on the team have logged hundreds of training miles since the start of the season. New runners and returning runners continually improved throughout the season indicated by the multiple PR’s (personal records) produced. All the hard work has paid off with both boys and girls varsity teams advancing to the district championship. We are proud to see our runners representing the school and Ballard community with class and sportsmanship. We hope to finish the season strong with berths to the State Cross Country Championship meet.
Boys Basketball preparing to hit the hardwood
  • Check in with Coach Broom if you missed the mandatory basketball meeting.
  • You must be cleared by the main office in order to tryout.
  • All Freshman and Sophomores report to the gym at 3:45 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 18.
  • All Juniors and Seniors report to the gym at 5:15pm on Monday, Nov. 18.
  • Fall Open Gyms are Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 a.m.
  • Fall Strength & Conditioning is every Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 7 a.m.

Girls Basketball tryouts
Girls Basketball tryouts begin at 7:15 p.m. Nov. 18 in the gym. Please reach out to Coach Baker ( ballardhsgirlshoops@gmail.com ) if you have any questions.

Gymnastics – Nov. 11-13 | Men’s Swimming – Nov. 18 | Wrestling – Nov. 18
ASSESSMENTS AND TESTING
PSAT Results will be released online on Dec. 10. Students who took the PSAT on Oct. 16 will need to log onto their College Board Account in order to view their scores. If you would like to learn more about how to understand your scores, get tips for preparing for the SAT or need assistance with your College Board account, come to the Ballard Counseling Center . BHS counselors are there to help. The SAT will be offered to all juniors on March 6 at Ballard High School. Visit the BHS Assessments Overview page for the most current updated test information.
LIBRARY
Halloween fun and more in the library
The Ballard High School has been filled with Halloween laughter and joy with illustrated 2-sentence horror stories, googley-eyed monster headbands, and Rubik's Cube spider mosaics. Even with all the fun we still managed to get tutoring in for students who need it. We have tutors Monday-Thursday after school until 4:45 pm and on Tuesday and Thursday mornings starting at 7:45 am. You can find a little bit of everything in our library.  

Donate to the library classroom to help literacy
From Teacher Librarian TuesD Chambers:
I want to make sure my students have the materials and experiences they need to succeed, so I just created a request for my classroom at  DonorsChoose |Global Picture Books Build Community Through Story   to increase participation and student engagement. If you chip in  by Nov. 5   to help my students, you'll get awesome photos and our heartfelt thanks. Also, if you know anyone who may want to help my classroom, pass it on:  Global Picture Books ! More info: tschambers@seattleschools.org .

New! BHS Library News page!

Check out the Library's Photo Gallery for a look behind the scenes.
BALLARD PERFORMING ARTS
Fall Concert Series features strings & bands this week
After kicking off the Fall Concert Series Monday with powerhouse choral performances, the Music Program continues its free Fall Concert Series with the Nov. 4 Orchestra Concert. The performance will feature eclectic classics and begin with the anticipated debut performance of the Concert Orchestra.
To round out the series, the Band Concert will feature three performance groups (Concert, Symphonic and Wind Ensemble) on Nov. 6. New this year, local musician Trevor Parrish will direct the Jazz 2 Band. Both Jazz 1 and 2 Bands will be performing some standard jazz tunes and are swingin’ hard!
Both concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center. Admission is free. You can purchase reserved seating at https://showtix4u.com . (Search for the name of the performance.) For full details about this event see http://www.ballardperformingarts.org
Spotlight Dinner & Auction to benefit BPA
5:30-10:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16 at Swedish Club, 1920 Dexter Ave. N.
Don't miss out on the Spotlight Dinner & Auction, a race day trifecta of food, music and fundraising. Activities include dinner, drinks, auction, live performances from BPA small groups and ensembles, dessert dash and fun! Race Day attire appreciated: Dress it up or down, dress comfortably, just come join us. Funds raised support the more than 400 students in the BPA program. Early bird tickets are $70/person through Nov. 1. More info here!
BALLARD BEAVER GEAR wants to Thank you all for your patience!
The time has finally come for those of you who ordered Ballard Beaver Duffel bags in the Fall to pick yours up from the Main Office!
And if you didn't order one yet, don't worry! We will hold another sale in January for standard and mini size duffel bags for Winter and Spring sports!
Volunteer notes
Library volunteers needed
BHS Parents/Guardians we need you! We LOVE volunteers in the library! Help shelve, repair and cover books and more. Please email Ballard HS Teacher Librarian TuesD at tschambers@seattleschools.org

Would you like to get involved too? Please see the BHS Volunteer Application Checklist   to learn how to become a volunteer.
Clubs and organizations
BHS Website includes this year's club listing
The 2019-20 BHS Clubs and Organizations are now posted with all the details and contact info! Check out the current list on the BHS Website > Student Life > Clubs and Organizations page .
Grad Ads due Nov. 16
Families can still purchase a Grad Ad that will appear in The Shingle. Get more details on the Grad Ad Form .

Two-week window needed for letters of recommendation
Seniors : You must plan to submit the needed materials to your school counselor at least two weeks prior to a college deadline for letters of recommendation.
There are three items needed:
1) the College Application and Deadline List,
2) the answers to the questions in the packet, and
3) a resume or activity log.
Refer back to the Post High School Planning Resource Guide if you have questions.
Counseling corner
Juniors and seniors: The Counseling Center staff wants to make sure that students know to sign up for college visits through Naviance. We have more than 80 colleges and universities scheduled to visit so far!
College preparation events
There are college preparation events being offered throughout the District. Check out the SPS website for upcoming offerings.
STEM at Ballard
Space available on 2020 Maui trip
There are a few open spots to join the 2020 Maui Ecology Class. This is an interdisciplinary program incorporating culture, climate, marine biodiversity, geology and more. A very unique and amazing trip. Open to all Ballard Students who have completed and passed Biology with a C or better. Contact Mr. Gundle, njgundle@seattleschools.org  for more questions or an application.

Extra clear 2-liter bottles?
Mrs. Carlson needs clear 2-liter bottles for a greenhouse project- please drop them off outside NW 203 or in the Main Office in the marked plastic tub!
Health & wellness
Flu shots available at Teen Health Center
Get ready for winter and get a free flu shot at the Teen Health Center. All students need are both consent forms below signed and returned to the clinic.
Service learning
Service Learning options found on BHS website
One of the graduation requirements for the Seattle School District is 60 hours of service learning. Service learning is giving time, without pay, to a nonprofit or government agency. Need service learning ideas or to download forms? Check out BHS Website > Resources and Services > Service Learning webpage .
PTSA BOARD MEETING INFO
PTSA Board meets Thursday, Nov. 7
The BHS PTSA Board will meet from 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7 in the staff lounge, on the second floor at the end of the south hallway. All are welcome to attend, but if you have a question or concern to add to the agenda, please contact President Tom Eggert at bhs.ptsa.pres@gmail.com .
Don't forget to vote!
 Ballots for the General Election must be postmarked by Tuesday, Nov. 5. More info: King County Elections .
Parenting educator featured at Feb. 13 General Meeting
The next General Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 13 in the library.
The meeting will include a presentation by Jody McVittie: http://www.encouragingsolutions.net/about/
ABOUT BHS PTSA
The PTSA is your voice
The PTSA is you. You, and me, and all of the parents, students and staff dedicated to the educational development and success of all students. PTSA membership is open to anyone concerned about the education, health, and welfare of our youth and is a way to show your commitment to working with teachers and the school administration to build a better future for the next generation.
  • We help families stay informed and connected to the school community.

  • We plan school-wide celebrations, parent education and staff appreciation events.

  • We raise much needed grant money for academic, enrichment and extracurricular activities.
Please join BHS PTSA and become a partner in your student’s education.
Community News
About Community News
The BHS PTSA provides Community News for informational purposes and does not necessarily support the activities or views presented therein. To make a submission, email to ballardhighnews@gmail.com .
Gary Hammon's latest saxophone work featured Nov. 3
Earshot Jazz presents "Black Seattle Jazz History: an evening rooted in the jazz legacy of Seattle’s Central District" at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3 at Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, 104 17th Ave. S. The show will include “In Case You Didn’t Know,” the latest work by saxophonist (and extraordinary BHS music volunteer) Gary Hammon, a renowned “saxophone colossus,” who grew up in the Central District before a storied career in New York with key figures like Big John Patton, Ray Charles, Jaki Byard, Rahsaan Roland Kirk and Stevie Wonder. Tickets: $22, available at the door.
Discussion of Gender and Identity
Whittier Elementary School PTA is excited to welcome SPS Health Education Specialist Brennon Ham for a Discussion of Gender and Identity . Learn about district policies and procedures supporting LGBTQ2+ students and families. We will also discuss how to create a welcoming environment for transgender and gender-expansive students. We will be having a book raffle and light snacks. All SPS parents/caregivers are welcome to join from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5 in the Whittier Library. Contact dandi.whittierpta@gmail.com with any questions.
LGBTQ Families Dinner, Nov. 14
The annual LGBTQ Families Dinner will be from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14 at Meany Middle School. All SPS families and staff are welcome to attend. Dinner and entertainment will be provided. If you have questions, or to reserve space at this popular event, please RSVP with the number of people in your party to Brennon Ham in the Health Education Office at 206-743-3564 or  brham@seattleschools.org .
Penguin Productions presents: My Name is Asher Lev
Directed by Shana Bestock at 7:30 p.m. Nov 7-8, and 5 p.m. Nov. 10 at University Heights Center (5031 University Way N.E.), "My Name is Asher Lev" features the journey of a young Jewish painter torn between his upbringing and his desperate need to fulfill his artistic promise. This stirring adaptation by Aaron Posner of Chaim Potok's modern classic presents a heartbreaking and triumphant vision of what it means to be an artist. Pay-What-You-Will.  Tickets here
Get JazzED
Seattle JazzED is a nonprofit music education organization in the Central District/Madison Valley. Sliding scale tuition, with free instrument loan assistance.
 
JAZZED ENSEMBLES PLACEMENTS – NOV. 16-17
Play and perform in JazzED Big Bands under  legendary local educators like Clarence Acox, Wayne Horvitz, Deb Schaaf, alongside  dedicated students  from the Seattle region. Advanced players looking for something different will want to try the New Works Ensemble with Wayne Horvitz. String players welcome in the JazzED Youth Orchestra . Top bands travel to NYC in the spring! Opportunities for grades 5-12. More info at seattlejazzed.org/ensembles
 
NINA SIMONE VOCAL ENSEMBLE PLACEMENTS - NOV. 16
Let your voice soar, as Nina Simone was known to do. Directed by Shaina Shepherd, this soulful group uses harmony to explore American roots music. Grades 7-12. Rehearse Jan-May. More info at seattlejazzed.org/vocal-ensemble

JAZZED DRUMLINE PLACEMENTS - NOV. 16
Have drumming experience? Be part of building a groove-based drumline on brand new Yamaha drums with director Tony Sodano (Seahawks Blue Thunder Drumline). FUN is the operative word. We’ll be making the crowd move! Grades 7-12. Rehearse Jan-May. More info at seattlejazzed.org/drumline
Do You Have an Announcement for the BHS PTSA Newsletter?
Submit content (appropriate and relevant to Ballard High School or Community) by 5 p.m. Thursday (1 or 2 weeks before your event ) to the BHS Newsletter Editor email at  ballardhighnews@gmail.com . Please submit posts no more than 100 words and include relevant URLs, contact info and a small graphic (if you have one). BHS Newsletter editors have full discretion over what is published. The BHS PTSA provides Community News for purely informational purposes and does not necessarily support the activities or views presented therein.
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