Welcome to The Ripple!
Happy Fall All!
The leaves are changing, the pumpkins are out, the weather
is cooler (and some nights it is just down right cold!) and our kids are
getting used to the daily routine – finally. DCAS has begun or is over
for the fall.
AND we had our 2nd Annual IDEA Awards this
month at The Grand Opera House on October 10. What an incredible night!
We had student performances from Academy of Dover, Gateway Lab School,
Kuumba Academy, Newark Charter School, and Prestige Academy and they were
phenomenal! We also had the Color Guard from Delaware Military Academy,
and an amazing student art show put together by Odyssey Charter Art
Teacher Natalia Ciriaco. Art was provided by students at Odyssey, Thomas
Edison, Moyer, Family Foundations, Campus Community, and Newark Charter
School – we have very talented kids!
Our guest speaker Derrell Bradford was a big highlight
too. If you missed him, check out his TedX performance that he did in New
Jersey here.
All that and we handed out awards too! The IDEA Awards celebrate and
honor the entire ‘village’ that works daily for all of our children.
Didn‘t get to go this year? Didn’t get to nominate someone this year?
Didn’t realize the number of opportunities and categories that there are
to get nominated in? Don’t worry, this is an annual event – so keep an
eye out when reading The Ripple – and check out the IDEA Corner! This
month we have highlighted the winners of all the awards – a huge congrats
to each! In the coming months we will be highlighting specific awards and
what makes a great nominee. Thank you to all that came out to the
celebration, that were nominated, and all that are part of our ever
growing village!
Last week we had our very first Parent Captain meeting! So
grateful to the parents that were able to join us and look forward to
working with them moving forward. We had a great discussion around needs
of parents at every different level of schools. We are looking forward to
working on these supports and would love to have more parents join us
too! Have an idea you want to share? Have questions? Want to get more
involved and you just don’t know how? Email Kendra kryan@decharternetwork.org
and join our Parent Network today!
Kendall Massett
Executive Director
Delaware Charter Schools Network
Your Child, Your Choice: The New Castle County Charter
School Expo
 As
a response to the growing number of charter schools in our state,
particularly within New Castle County, DCSN will host a New Castle County
Charter School Expo on November 23 from 9am-12pm at The Studio 1 Ballroom
in The Grand Opera House in Wilmington.
In the last issue of The Ripple, we
wrote about the six expanding charter schools in our Network this year.
In the 2014-2015 school year, many of those schools will continue to
expand and our Network will welcome five new charter schools to our
state: Design Lab High School, Delaware MET High School, La Academia
Antonio Alonso Elementary School, and First State Montessori Academy
(Elementary School) in New Castle County, as well as Early College High
School at Delaware State University in Kent County. By next year,
Delaware will have 26 charter schools. Twenty of these schools will be
located in New Castle County.
The Charter School Expo will benefit
both families and schools in our Network. Parents and Families can meet
leaders and staff from our schools. Conversations with school staff
members will help prospective families to make an informed choice for
their student's education in 2014-2015. School representatives can share
literature and data on their school, as well as application information
for next year. Charter schools can expand their recruitment and community
outreach efforts by connecting with families and leaders of local
community organizations and businesses face-to-face.
The New Castle County Charter School
Expo will be a test-run for a project that would expand to Kent and
Sussex counties as our charter school numbers grow.
For more information on the New Castle
County Charter School Expo, or to register your school, click
here.
Parent Spotlight:
William Lynch
Charter School of Wilmington
On October 10th the Delaware Charter Schools Network hosted
its 2nd Annual IDEA Awards. People in our schools and in our community
nominated staff, leaders, teachers and parents for a number of awards. As
we received nominations, everyone in our office was particularly touched
to see a submission from a senior at Charter School of Wilmington who
nominated his father for the Cornerstone Award, recognizing a parent who
has been a strong support to his or her charter school.
The parent, Mr. William Lynch, is a clinical pharmacist at a local
hospital. He works an intense schedule of 7 night shifts in a row
(9pm-7am) and then 7 days off. But during those days off, Lynch isn't
catching up on sleep or sitting on the couch. During many of his days
off, and even some of the days that he is working, he can be found in
classroms at Charter School of Wilmington presenting on multiple topics
to share his knowledge with the students, his son reported. When asked
why he gives of his time, Lynch said: "It's all about giving back as
much as possible to our youth. . .Students are looking for mentors who
have traveled the road they are considering to travel. They are looking
for someone to inspire them to pursue a career that they themselves are
passionate about. Spending time with students as a guest lecturer/mentor
is a way to give back."
Mr. Lynch has been presenting at CSW for the last four years on up to 12
different science and health-related topics. He is particularly
passionate about educating youth and families on the prescription drug
abuse crisis in America. "Every student in Delaware needs to hear
his direct and impactful presentation and stories, as he witnesses first
hand the devastating consequences the issue has on teens every night that
he works in the ER and the ICU," his son stated in his nomination
survey. Mr. Lynch has presented on prescription drug abuse in every
health class at CSW, as well as extra curricular clubs at the school. He
is taking his presentation "on the road" as he travels to
schools, hospitals and medical centers in Delaware, New Jersey and
Pennsylvania.
Mr. Lynch believes that Charter School of Wilmington has been a crucial
partner in the education of his children. He mentions CSW's ability to
teach its students how to apply the knowledge they gain in lessons. He
commends the staff for their dedication and their expertise. "My
wife and I have personally witnessed how well prepared our daughter was
for a rigorous doctor of pharmacy program by her attendance at CSW . .
.When she tells you that she is supplementing her notes from anatomy and
physiology with Dr. Fleetwood at CSW, with her cardiopulmonary
pharmacology notes in a fourth year pharmacy curriculum, you know
how well CSW prepared her for college."
PARENT STATS
Children:
Rachel, CSW Alum 2010, Rutgers University, Ernest Mario
School of Pharmacy, Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate 2016
Eric, CSW Senior, Class of 2014
Wife:
Cindy, Rutgers University, BA in Economics and Accounting
Education:
Rutgers University, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy; Bachelor
of Science in Pharmacy, Registered Pharmacist (BS Pharm, RPh)
Best Subject:
Pharmacology, Pharmacotherapeutics
My charter school is great because . . ..
it teaches
its children and students how to think and apply knowledge they learn to engage
solving the problems of the world. CSW tells them and shows them how they
can make a difference and encourages the students to do just that, go
make a difference in the world!
If you won a million dollars what would you
do?
I would invest the money wisely to be able to use the money
and interest gained to make a difference in the world. . . ..Charitable
donations would be a top priority [including] The Wounded Warrior Project
and Independencefund.org . . .[I would] make donations to the Andrew McDonough
Be Positive (B+) Foundation to support Joe, Chris and Ali McDonough's
noble fight against pediatric cancer in memory of their son, Andrew [a
classmate of Lynch's daughter, Rachel, K-8th grade]. . .Set up a
scholarship fund for those graduating from CSW . . .Make donations to
expand CSW to allow more students to attend . . .Support organizations
that continue to fight against HIV and substance abuse . . .[I would
support] these and many other organizations who are making a
difference one student, one patient, one person at a time.
In the Community
Sea Witch Festival Rehoboth Beach
The 24th Annual Sea Witch Festival presents Halloween and fall-related
activities for the whole family! Activities include pumpkin bowling,
various crafts, movies, parades and more. Many of the shops at Rehoboth
offer discounts for those in costume! Oct 25-27, All Day
Event
Details Here
Faith Church Annual Fall Fest
Wilmington
Faith Presbyterian Church on Marsh Rd hosts its annual Fall Fest on
Wednesday. Bring your kids in costumes for games, prizes, hotdogs, candy
and more. This event is free to the public. Oct 30, 6:30-8:00
720 Marsh Rd, Wilmington, DE
Event
Details Here
St. Mary's Children's Clothing & Equipment Resale Hockessin
St. Mary's of the Assumption hosts a Children's Clothing and Equipment
Resale Saturday, November 9th. They carry clothing sizes from infant to
size 16. They also carry maternity clothes, books, dvds, baby accessories
and more. They accept credit cards. Nov 9, 8am-2pm
7200 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, DE
Flyer
here
Art on the Town Wilmington
See local exhibits during their extended hours 5-9pm the
first Friday of every month. Check back on their website for information
on which exhibits will be open. Nov 1, 5pm-9pm, Free
Event
details here
World Championship Punkin Chunkin
Bridgeville
Punkin Chunkin has gained national recognition since its start in 1986.
The event brought out 20,000 guests last year. If you're willing to brace
the crowds, come join in one of Delaware's more unique annual activities
and watch a bunch of really strong men and women throw some pumpkins! Nov
1-3, All Day,
Adults: $10, Children under 10: Free
18657 Sussex Highway, Bridgeville, DE
Event details here
Fifer Fall Fest Wyoming
The Fifer Fall Fest is hosted by Fifer Orchards. The Fest includes corn
mazes, pumpkin painting, a petting zoo, live entertainment and more. Come
with the whole family. The event is free to attend, with different rides
and activities (hayrides, corn maze etc) costing extra.
Sept 16-Oct 31
1919 Allabands Mill Rd, Wyoming, DE
Event
details here
Dover Officers' Spouses' Club Craft & Holiday Show
Harrington
The Dover Officers' Spouses' Club Craft & Holiday show is
in its 30th year this fall. It hosts over 100 vendors and 160 craft
booths and has become the largest single-day craft show on the east
coast. One hundred percent of the profits from the show are donated to
base, local or national charities. Nov 2, 9am-4pm, $5 admission
Delaware State Fairgrounds,
18500 S Dupont Highway, Harrington, DE
Event
Details Here
The Inside Scoop: The Common Core
Let's face it: there's a lot of teacher lingo out there that
just doesn't make any sense! In this section of our newsletter, we vow to
remove the veil on some of those confusing buzz words and acronyms that
get your head spinning!
What is Common Core?
The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) is an initiative
that seeks to align the varying state standards across the United States.
The initiative was developed by education experts from 45 states. The
standards were created for Language Arts and Mathematics. The Language
Arts standards break down into 5 key components: Reading, Writing,
Speaking & Listening, Language and Media & Technology. The
standards for Mathematics break down into two parts: Mathematical
Practice (illustrating problem solving, understanding methods) and
Mathematical Content (algebra, operations, geometry etc).
Is Delaware a part of the Common Core Initiative?
Yes. Delaware has adopted the Common Core State Standards.
Many schools have already begun to implement the standards. Mandatory
implementation begins in 2014.
What changes should I expect to see in my child's learning
and classroom instruction?
The goal of the Common Core is to prepare
our students for college, work and life through real life application of
key knowledge points. The standards prioritize understanding over
memorization. In your child's classroom, your child should be interacting
with content on a level where he or she can use the knowledge gained
directly in his or her life or see first-hand how it applies to his or
her future goals. For example, in learning basic math, the Common Core
moves beyond knowing that 1+1=2 towards knowing why 1+1=2, what
that means for 2-1=1 and being able to describe how these two equation
relate in a real life situation. ("If Bobby has 1 toy, and I have 1
toy, then we have 2 toys together and so, 1+1=2. And, if Bobby takes away
his toy, we will lose part of our toy equation and we will be left with 1
toy. And so, 2-1=1") This is a 21st century skill that the Common
Core initiative has deemed necessary for our students to be competitive
in a global job market.
Are there Common Core
Standards for science and social studies?
Not at this time. There are sections of the Common Core
that apply the language arts standards to understanding science and
social studies, but they do not have specific science and social studies
standards written. Delaware is looking into adopting the Next Generation
Science Standards found
here.
Where can I get more
information about the Common Core?
The best source for detailed information about how the
Common Core will play out in your child's classroom is your child's
teacher. Read through the Common Core Website (click
here) and be sure to pay close attention to the language arts and
math standards for your child's grade. Write down any questions you have
and present them to your child's teacher or counselor.
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Upcoming Events
The
New Castle County
Charter School Expo
Nov 23, 9a-12p
Studio 1, The Grand Opera House, Wilmington
The
Charter School Expo will be an opportunity for parents and families in
New Castle County to compare different options for their student's
education in the 2014-2015 school year.
For
more information, or if you know of a business or community organization
who would like to secure a table at our expo, please click
here.
Inaugural
DMA 5k Walk/Run
Nov 17th, 9am
Banning Park, Wilmington
Delaware
Military Academy celebrates 10 years of excellence this school year. Help
them raise funds for another 10 at this 5k Walk/Run.
IDEA Awards Corner
Congratulations to all of the nominees at our 2nd Annual IDEA Awards! Announcing
this year's winners:
The
Community Ties Award
Positive Outcomes Charter School Staff
The
Cornerstone Award
Clarissa Roth, MOT Charter School
The Giving
Back Award
Sierra Hadik, Providence Creek Academy
The Impact
Award
Lamont Browne, EastSide Charter School
The Innovation
Award: Elementary School
The Arts Integration Team, Kuumba Academy
The Innovation
Award: Middle School
Positive Outcomes Charter School Teachers
The Dedication
Award: Elementary School
Bernadette DeLong, MOT Charter School
The Dedication
Award: Middle School
Brynn Dixon, EastSide Charter School
The Dedication
Award: High School
Thomas Fleetwood, Charter School of Wilmington
The Inch &
Miles Awards
Las Americas ASPIRA Academy
Family Foundations Charter School
EastSide Charter School
Positive Outcomes Charter School
The Excellence
in Academics Awards
Newark Charter School
Odyssey Charter School
Sussex Academy Charter School
Charter School of Wilmington
Education Headlines
EdWatch:
Game debuts at EastSide charter to help kids pick a job
WDEL
1150 AM
A game from the DE Department of Labor makes its debut at
EastSide charter school in an effort to get younger students to start
thinking about their future jobs.
Delaware names Academic Achievement Award-winning schools
Delaware Online Sussex Academy,
Charter School of Wilmington, Kuumba Academy and Newark Charter are among
many schools recognized for their academic achievements.
Charter school group gives out awards
Delaware Online A
recap of our 2nd Annual IDEA Awards. Congratulations to all of our
nominees! It was a fun-filled night.
More than 400 scholarships available for 2014-2015 school
year
Delaware
Community Foundation
Delaware students are invited to apply for scholarships available
through the Delaware Community Foundation. The deadline to apply is April
1, 2014. Last year, DCF totaled $400,000 in higher education
scholarships.
DCSN Executive Director on Channel 28
You
Tube Our Executive Director, Kendall Massett, was interviewed by
Maurice Pritchett on Pritchett's "On the Road with Doc
Pritchett"--an education-related talk show on Channel 28. City
Councilman Nnamdi Chukwuocha and Dr. Michael Harp were also present for
the discussion. Watch the YouTube recap and hear more about the DE
charter school landscape and our 2013 New Castle County Charter School
Expo.
Governor Markell and College Board partner to increase
college access for Delawareans
State
of Delaware Many Delaware students who earn the SAT scores necessary
to do well in college, ultimately do not attend. In September, Governor
Markell announced a partnership with the College Board to help all
Delaware students understand their options.
The
Rodel Foundation publishes its 2013-2014 Flip Book
Rodel
Foundation The Rodel Foundation published its annual flip book,
"Delaware Public Education at a Glance". The book gives its
readers a breakdown of the statistics that make up education in our state
from demographics to DCAS to enrollment patterns.The book is available in
hard copy or online in e-book format.
Delaware
College Night draws crowd of parents, students
Delaware
Online A throng of college-bound students and their parents swarmed
the Bob Carpenter Center at the University of Delaware to gather
information from officials and participating institutions.
Resource Spotlight
Storybird
 Storybird
allows users to make short, art-inspired stories on any device. The site
procures the rights to illustrations from previously published stories.
Students can use the pictures to "find a story". Their
publishing tool is simple and easy for children to use. After they
publish their book, students can share and sell it to other users!
storybird.com
Edutopia
 Edutopia
is a free site with a corresponding free newsletter. The site is
a project of The George Lucas Educational Foundation. They post
resources and plenty of articles on teaching and learning strategies for
students and parents. On a recent visit to their site, we discovered this
awesome article identifying 7 apps (web based and mobile) that help
teach children how to code!
Duolingo
 Duolingo
is a website and mobile app recommended by Sussex Academy high school
Spanish teacher, Cameron Smith. The site/app offers fun, modern games and
activities to help students learn foreign languages including Spanish,
English, French, German, Portuguese, and Italian.
Did You Know?
A Newark Charter Middle
School student is the youngest female contributor to the Fund for Women.
Are you a leader at your school?
The
Delaware Charter Schools Network is looking for dedicated, hardworking
"Parent Captains" from each Delaware charter school. Captains
need only commit to two meetings within the year. This is a great
opportunity to get your voice and your school's voice heard! For more
information, contact KRyan@DECharterNetwork.org
Get Published!
Do
you have a message you want to get out to your fellow charter parents? Do
you have a resource, news story, article or best practice that you find
particularly helpful? Do you know a parent worthy of our coveted Parent
Spotlight? Let us know!
E-mail Kendra at KRyan@DECharterNetwork.org
Want More?
Want
to know more information about Delaware charter schools? Follow DECharters.org
-- a blog written for people like you by DCSN's executive director,
Kendall Massett.
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