Shoutouts

• To the Senior Academy Debate Team won this weekend’s tournament. Competitors included Vaqueria Fennell, Alexandria Girault, Sydney Berenson, Kashawn Myers, and Carrington Grant. Congratulate them on this victory!
• To EVERYONE! It’s November and we are all still hanging in for the remainder of 2020!
• To Everyone that took time to send thoughtful birthday wishes to Mr. Myers!
• To Heather Stokes, who designed a project where students exercise autonomy around serious social implications like accessibility of neighborhoods in relation to general income status! – Click here to see an example!
• To Emily, Rachel, and Tameka for organizing and assisting with Senior Pictures!
• To students being engaged and adjusting to the new normal of Virtual Learning!
• To Mr. Wynn and Mrs. Isbell for organizing the voter registration drive!
• To all Parents who are managing family and work simultaneously!
• To a guest speaker from Alvin Ailey who was able to use Zoom for an interactive session which may not have been possible if we were not in the Virtual Learning space!
• To all teachers and our progress towards STEAM Certification!
• Congratulations to the 10th graders Andrew Botchwey, Olivia Pearson, and Matthew Cook who were selected to advance to the State Level for Governor’s Honors Program in Engineering!
• Congratulations to the 11th graders Myah Crowell and Chanel Harris who were selected to advance to the State Level for Governor’s Honors Program in Engineering!
• To Mrs. Allen for joining the Homecoming Committee to alleviate the planning process!
• To Everyone in Mrs. Klein’s 1A and 4A who took part in an impromptu debate about Odysseus!
• To Sage H.C, Calliope D., Kayla H.S, Anetra R., Amishai G., Aiswariya B., Xander G., Mason A., Kelsey B., Jaylon B., Jerry C., Lina M., Alexcia W., Felix P., Kate D., Isaiah R., Alana N., Morgan W., Elsie H., Mance I., Vaqeuriayah F., Kendrick M., and Ziya H. for being really cool kids who work ahead on their assignments! You are REALLY COOL kids!
• To Kailey Saddler for being a fantastic club participant! I appreciate her engagement and efforts! -Sra. Díaz
• To Taj Price for sharing and being on point about Elements of Art and Principles of Design!
• To the following students who were randomly selected to win the Golf Channel Prize Pack! Thank you to the winners for completing the student survey from the 2020 Career Day!
The winners are:
 9th grader, Mak’yla price
 9th grader, Soma Hall
 10th grader, Ky Bush
 10th grader, Christian Aycock
 10th grader, Michai Reid
 11th grader, Tarek Hayes
 12th grader, Christian Butts

Winners can pick up their prize pack at the EA this week from the security guard between 10am – 2pm

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Spreadsheets for Science with Georgia Tech Workshop

Technology has changed how students learn and some applications are confusing for students, parents, and teachers. But don’t worry, Georgia Tech students are here to help! 

The Spreadsheets for Science workshop will include a short presentation and a practice activity completed in breakout rooms of small groups of 3 or 4 students. The workshop will help you utilize basic Sheets functions, record and interpret data, and create graphs for science fair, STEM classes, and more. This workshop is for any student or adult looking to further their understanding of Google Sheets, although it will focus on skills needed for Science Fair participation.

For more information or to ask questions, please contact Alisha Hester: alisha.hester@drewcharterschools.org

Where: RSVP for a Zoom link

When: Wednesday –

November 18, 2020 at 3:30pm

Senior Academy Virtual Learning Guide

Dear Drew Community, 

As we continue school in our virtual learning environment this quarter, we want to focus on mental health awareness and self-care in our community. Mental health is central to our overall health and well-being. We recognize the many challenges that accompany sustained virtual learning and the potential negative impact virtual learning has on the mental health of students and families. It is important that we continue to highlight mental health and positive ways to support students and families during this pandemic, especially as we head into the holiday season. 

Per our school-wide communication, we will offer programming for parents along with students to directly address mental health. Senior Academy will incorporate this programming into our Wednesday schedule to better serve students and families. Please see the Wednesday schedule below:

Please note that this schedule does not include class rotations. The first available session is at 9:00 and optional for all students. We ask that all students attend their scheduled small group sessions (if selected) and scheduled advisory/club time at 11:00.  This week we will also honor our students work and efforts. In collaboration with EA’s theme of PBL, 10th graders will be holding their PBL showcase – see info here.

During the afternoon session, counselors will be holding drop in sessions for students. Please remember that Drew’s counseling team is always available to assist you and your student. Please feel free to reach out directly as needed.  Social emotional counselor contact information is listed below: 

9th and 11th- rob.richardson@drewcharterschool.org

10th and 12th: tara.davis@drewcharterschool.org

Dean of CCR: rachel.weaver@drewcharterschool.org 

As we enter the holiday season, we hope that these targeted support opportunities will proactively assist in addressing many of the critical mental health and wellness needs of our Drew community.  We strongly encourage you and your family to participate in offered activities and access available resources.  ~ K. Myers

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• In this document you will find FAQs and Answers on the structure of virtual learning and resources to assist you and the student while in a e-learning environment
  • ^{SENIOR ACADEMY VIRTUAL PARENT GUIDE}
    • Click Here for the following:
      • STUDENT GUIDELINES
        • Virtual Schedule [Updated 10/26/2020]
      • Zoom Best Practices- Click Here
    • Attendance Notice to Drew Families during Virtual Learning

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• The links below will show you various settings and information for navigating Google Classroom
  • Video: Parent Orientation Presentation- click here 
  • Slides from Video- Parent Orientation to Google Classroom Presentation- click here

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Please join us for the Virtual Parent University:

• Wednesday, November 18th from 5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.,
  • We will continue our Mindfulness discussion.
  • The guest speaker will be Ms. TaTanisha Copeland, counselor and creator of Mindfulness Maya. 

Updates from Teachers!

Teachers at each grade level have compiled a few general notes for you in regards to updates related to their classes.

The link holds the updates for each grade level and it is organized by grade level, 9th-12th.  General Grade Level Class Updates

Please feel free to reach out to your grade level counselor should you have general questions about your student and/or need to connect for support.

• Rob Richardson (9th & 11th, rob.richardson@drewcharterschool.org)
• Tara Davis (10th & 12th, tara.davis@drewcharterschool.org)

 

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If you missed the information from the last Principal’s Coffee please see the slideshow below:

Typically, high school is the time when young Eagles are maturing and are prepared to fly on their own. Encourage this independent practice. They will still need the watchful eye to guide them in their development and learning. Please do so during breaks and refrain from interrupting live instruction for the benefit of the students and teachers. The slideshow will include some additional ways you can support your learner in the virtual environment.

• – Slideshow Presentation Here

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Uniform Needs

• Please click here for more details

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Announcements from

ATLANTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The Parent C.A.F.E. is hosted by APS

The Parent C.A.F.E is designed for Guardians of students with disabilities

— Click Here to See Full Schedule —

The Media Services Eagle’s Nest

hOSTED ON Smore, Click the Link above

Message from JA/SA Media Center Specialist

Greetings,

Please view  The Eagle’s Nest Media Newsletter for upcoming events and online resources for literacy/researching.   

• Social Emotional Learning Resources
• Galileo (password: lever)
• Reading Counts/Beanstack  (Student ID num/Drewcharter3)
• EPIC Digital books ( Mrs. Ricks class code dvc1703)  
• HRRB book titles   
  • Pick up- Monday, November 9^th  4-5:00 pm
• Check out the Top Readers for October
• Media Services Bitmoji classroom 7iy2jsh
• Save the Date: November 12^th   
  • Meet Author Alan Gratz    

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Intent to Play [In Relation to All Sports]

• Message from Director of Athletics, click here for letter

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I recognize that this is a difficult time for parents and students. The level of uncertainty is troubling and at times can feel overwhelming. I encourage you to contact our counselors if you or your student need support. You can also receive support via a free, confidential Crisis Text Line, with trained Crisis Counselors, by texting SHARE to 741741. (This is a national resource that is available 24/7).

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Drew Opportunity Fund

While COVID-19 put a wrinkle in our plans to sell a special, 18-month celebration calendar in honor of Drew’s 20th birthday, we’ve recently received several inquiries indicating that there is still interest!

The school holidays/breaks indicated in the calendar may no longer be correct, but the artwork provided by students and staff is still spot-on. The perfect addition to brighten up anyone’s home or office!

Calendars can be purchased here for $10 and all proceeds will benefit the Drew Opportunity Fund.

• Purchased calendars can be picked up every Monday from 2 – 4:30 p.m. at the Elementary Academy.
• Full Link if needed: https://app.etapestry.com/cart/DrewCharterSchoolInc/default/index.php
• BUY HERE

Mark your calendar to give Drew a “high five” on #GivingTuesday, December 1, to raise funds and awareness for the Drew Opportunity Fund.

HOW? IT’S EASY!

1. Make a one-time or monthly donation of $5.
2. Encourage 5 friends or family members to make a gift.
3. Post a photo of yourself, or your student(s), holding a sign listing 5 reasons why you support Drew.  Be sure to tag us!

When you give Drew a high five you give a hand up to our school community.  Your support allows us to meet the ever-changing needs of our students, teachers, and families.  Let’s keep up the great work.  #WeAreDrew

The Drew Opportunity Fund is currently assisting families with varying needs during this difficult time. If you, or a Drew family you know, could use some assistance please fill out the Family Support Assessment: https://forms.gle/RT9m1BRWLomLinSr5. 

This form is confidential and the responses will only be shared with our social worker and student support teams. Drew is here for you. If you need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out.  #WeAreDrew

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO THE DREW OPPORTUNITY FUND

Donations are tax-deductible and donors will be listed on the Drew website. Please continue to support the Opportunity Fund–we are making a difference. Make a secure, online donation here.

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Week of 11/16- 11/22

8:30-9:40	1st Period
9:50-11:00	2nd Period
11:05-11:35	Break/Lunch
11:40-12:50	Break and/or small groups [for selected students]
1:00-2:10	3rd Period
2:20-3:30	4th Period
2:00 – 5:30	[Please note the time change]  Nutrition pick up – Location: Lower campus [Drew Elementary Campus]

8:30-9:40	1st Period
9:50-11:00	2nd Period
11:05-11:35	Break/Lunch
11:40-12:50	Break and/or small groups [for selected students]
1:00-2:10	3rd Period
2:20-3:30	4th Period
3pm	Maker Space Office Hours – Zoom makerspace hours! Tuesday will be office hours where students can ask questions and get help –> bit.ly/DrewMAKE

Time	Wednesday Programming
8:30-9:00	NO CLASS/MEDITATION
9:00-9:45	The following optional activities are available to students: –Virtual Field Trips –Principal’s Corner –Counselor’s Corner –Optional Activities
10:00-10:50	-1oth Grade PBL Showcase -SMALL GROUPS/1:1 (SELECT STUDENTS)
11:00-11:45	ADVISORY/CLUBS
11:45-12:15	Lunch
1:00 – 4:00	The following are available to students: – COUNSELOR SESSIONS [scheduled] – Small Groups/1:1 sessions (as needed) – Study Skills [Required for select students]

6pm- Monthly Principal’s Coffee: Game Night Edition

Zoom Link here

8:30-9:40	1st Period
9:50-11:00	2nd Period
11:05-11:35	Break/Lunch
11:40-12:50	Break and/or small groups [for selected students]
1:00-2:10	3rd Period
2:20-3:30	4th Period
3pm	MakerSpace Office Hours The zoom links can be found here–> bit.ly/DrewMAKE

8:30-9:40	1st Period
9:50-11:00	2nd Period
11:05-11:35	Break/Lunch
11:40-12:50	Break and/or small groups [for selected students]
1:00-2:10	3rd Period
2:20-3:30	4th Period

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11/21| Saturday

•   N/A
  • Please note access to the school building will NOT be available. Security have been advised to not allow access to outsiders until further notice [inclusive of staff].

11/22| Sunday

• N/A
  • Please note access to the school building will NOT be available. Security have been advised to not allow access to outsiders until further notice [inclusive of staff].

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Upcoming Events:

• 11/23-27 Holiday Week
• 11/30- 12/04
  • **QUARANTINE WEEK – ALL CAMPUSES WILL BE VIRTUAL** 

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Check this out!

The Decatur Maker Space is building desks for students – nothing fancy (see photo) but very functional. Here is a link to the article. https://decaturmakers.org/building-free-desks-youth/

• They will be making two kinds, a folding desk and a non-folding desk. If you know of a student who needs a desk to learn from home, please pass this link along.
• Complete the application link for one here –> https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd_qTEVn_DYByEN_UkVf10ffymS5p2yJtjlzI09VcKDlmGFaw/viewform

THIS IS NOT SPONSORED BY DREW AND WE DON’T HAVE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THIS PROCESS.

Free meals available to ALL children in the District – Including Drew Students – Through December 31, 2020

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced an extended waiver which allows free meals to all children (ages 1-18) in communities designated as areas of community eligibility. The entire state of Georgia has been declared an area of community eligibility through Dec. 31, 2020.   The weekly 5-day meal kits (5-breakfast meals and 5-lunch meals) will still be available for pick up at Drew’s Elementary Academy each Monday between 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. However, between now and December 31st families no longer need to pre-order their meals through MySchoolBucks. You can simply show up during distribution hours to receive meals.  Upon arrival at Drew during the pick-up window, you will simply state how many meal kits you need for children between ages 1 and 18, and they will be provided.    Alternatively, now through December 31, Drew families may also pick up the free weekly meal kits at any of these 14 other school distribution sites throughout the district on Mondays – See here for more info.

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Wifi and Internet Resources

Please see the Xfinity flyer above and information to internet access at a deep discount with Comcast–> CLICK HERE .

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PTA UPDATES

CLICK HERE TO JOIN PTA TODAY!

The PTA Needs YOU! 

This year, more than ever, Drew teachers and families need our support!

What do the PTA dues and fundraising efforts pay for (especially during the 2020-21 school year)?

● Teacher Appreciation Gifts 
● Donations to The Opportunity Fund – which supports Drew families
● Teacher and Classroom Grants – for projects enhancing student learning

Some past examples include:

Leveled library with cart to be shared across a single grade level

Class set of guitars

iPads/Chromebooks for use within a specific classroom

Beekeeping materials and bees

Drones for a robotics club 

Materials and choreography for a choral performance

This support for our students, teachers and families would not be possible without your membership!

 Join or renew today!  www.drewcharterschoolpta.com

Uniform Concerns!

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Portal for Paying for Nutrition/Lunch Fees

Portal for Paying for Drew Events, Dues, Field Trips, etc..

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Update for Students: