Week of May 2, 2017

FINAL PTSA MEETING

Please join us for the last General PTSA meeting for the 2016-2017 school year.  The meeting will be held on May 2 at 5:30 p.m. in the MLWGS Auditorium. 

A full meeting is planned, starting with elections for the PTSA Board positions for the 2017-18 school year; a slate was announced a few weeks ago and can be found at the end of this message. 

Then Dr. Lee Ridens, the MLWGS school psychologist, will host an informational meeting on The Mental Health of Your Teen.  The program will include a discussion on information and risk factors related to anxiety, depression, and drug and alcohol use / abuse and steps to take if you have concerns about your student.  Dr. Ridens will focus on the impact of drugs on brain development as well as possible overlap of anxiety and depression as it relates to the gifted student.  The presentation will also include resources for families and students.

Lastly, Wendy De Groat and Karl Zweerink will finish up the meeting with a short presentation on mindfulness, and the various ways that MLWGS is providing support for students as they work to manage stress including information on the mindfulness and calm sessions offered by Wendy.

The current MLWGS PTSA Board is pleased to present the following candidates for the 2017-18 PTSA Executive Board

PARENT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

Calling all parents!  The Governor's School Foundation is looking for parent volunteers to help with a postcard mailing on Wednesday, May 10.  We will get started around 9:00 a.m. or so in RM 228 across from the boardroom and Foundation office.  Please contact Suzannah Stora at sstora@mlwgsfoundation.org if you are available to participate.  Thanks so much! 

CONGRATULATIONS 2017 ‘WE THE PEOPLE’

NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!

Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School’s team placed first in the 2017 ‘We the People’ National Finals. The ‘We the People’ program focuses on the history and principles of U.S. constitutional democracy, culminating in simulated congressional hearings in which students “testify” before a panel of judges acting as members of Congress. Students demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of constitutional principles and have opportunities to evaluate, take, and defend positions on relevant historical and contemporary issues.

More than 1,300 students competed in the ‘We the People’ National Finals, held April 21-24, 2017 at the National Conference Center in the Washington D.C. area. The final ten qualifying team held their hearings in Congressional hearing rooms on Capitol Hill. The MLWGS ‘We the People’ team is led by Mr. Samuel Ulmschneider. The Awards Ceremony and additional photos are available on the Facebook page of the sponsoring organization, the Center for Civic Education.

2017 PARENT CLASS ANNUAL FUND CHALLENGE

This week, the Governor's School Foundation is excited to kick off the 2017 Parent Class Annual Fund Challenge! The Governor's School Foundation Annual Fund makes a huge impact on the students at MLWGS by directly supporting activities like academic competitions and student travel, as well as new technology, and student financial assistance. The support of our parents is critical in these efforts and we are most grateful for your continued commitment.  Be on the lookout for emails from parent representatives from your child's class.

At this time, we have raised $220,000 towards our goal of $300,000 so we still have some work ahead to meet our goal by the end of our fiscal year, June 30.  To make a contribution online visit http://www.governorsschoolfoundation.org/donate/.  We look forward to all that we can accomplish together during this exciting campaign!

COLLEGE BOOT CAMP IN AUGUST FOR RISING SENIORS

(more spots now available)

Dear Rising 12th-Grade Students and Parents,

Registration for College Boot Camp is now open! College Boot Camp is an optional, fee-based summer program which is designed to provide students a space and time to complete their Common Application (or other application of their choice) before the school year starts. The dates are August 15-17 and there is an option of a morning or afternoon session. Please click the link below to register on “Sign Up Genius” and receive payment instructions and additional logistical information. The fee is $55. Fee waiver information, if needed, is provided within the link below. Registration is open until May 31 and all payments must be received by that date in order for the slot to be secure. We have recently expanded capacity of the program to meet the needs of all interested students who register and pay or inquire about a fee waiver by May 31.

More information about College Boot Camp: The MLWGS Senior Counselors will provide a structured curriculum over three, three-hour sessions with specific tips and personal assistance at every step. College Boot Camp is designed to walk students through each section of the Common Application and provide them with the resources to complete each section during the program. A guest speaker will address the essay specifically, and the students should leave the Boot Camp with their Common App primary essay (or other essay of their choice) in a completed draft form. There will be some group discussion, peer editing, quiet individual work time, and one-on-one consultations. The Boot Camp will also touch on college-specific supplements and popular non-Common App applications. Topics can be adjusted based on the needs of the group.

Please contact Rachel Loving at rloving@gsgis.k12.va.us with questions. Registration is available at the link below.

www.SignUpGenius.com/go/70A0B48AFA62BA75-college4

SENIOR PICTURE

It’s still possible to order the Class of 2017 panoramic picture. Go to www.strawbridge.net.  Students can search by school OR use the code 111957 to find the photo.  The cost is $15.00.  Contact Ms. Sheppard (ksheppard@gsgis.k12.va.us or 804-354-6800 ext. 3304) with any questions.

SAVE THE DATE

DRAMA BOOSTERS SPRING MEETING

May 9 6:00 p.m. in the Black Box Theater

Drama Boosters needs your help and participation.  Drama Boosters has volunteer openings for next year as its senior parents are “graduating.” 

Please contact Ryan Giorgis at giorgisfamily4@gmail.com for more information.

A MESSAGE FROM THE COUNSELING OFFICE

If it has not already been brought to your attention through social media, emails from friends/family, and/or your student, then we feel it is our responsibility to alert you to a new Netflix Series “13 Reasons Why” that was released on March 31, 2017. We have had several parents call and write in with concerns about the content of this series, particularly as it would relate to students who may be more fragile than others. 

  

The timing of the release of this series coincides with our annual suicide prevention training that is provided to freshman. On Friday May 5 we will be visiting 9th-grade Health classes.  If you have concerns about your child receiving suicide prevention training, please notify Karl Zweerink in the Counseling office.  All 9th graders who are not enrolled in health at MLWGS will be reporting to the Forum during lunch on May 5 for the training.  We will be showing a “Signs of Suicide: Suicide Prevention” video, as well as discussing warning signs and steps to take when the student or a peer is showing signs of suicide.

In regards to the Netflix series, should you have concerns that your student is watching this show (or has already watched all of the episodes), the following guidance and resources are offered from the National Association of School Psychologists website (13 Reasons Why Netflix Series: Considerations for Educators). Please pay particular attention to the Guidance for Families and Safe Messaging portions of the article. The link to the article is below.

http://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources/school-safety-and-crisis/preventing-youth-suicide/13-reasons-why-netflix-series-considerations-for-educators

As always, please feel free to contact the Counseling Department for additional information and/or to report any student concerns.

MLWGS MATH MODELING TEAM RECOGNIZED

Recently, a Maggie Walker math modeling team was honored as ‘Meritorious’ in the Interdisciplinary Contest in Modeling (ICM) which is a 96-hour college-level competition.  The team consisted of Henrico seniors Isha Gangal, Jeffery Song and Annie Zhang.  The team scored in the top 10% out of the 8,085 teams competing from 7 different countries.  This is quite an accomplishment for a high school team competing in an undergraduate competition.  This result is the highest ever achieved by a team from Maggie Walker in the ICM.

Here are some specifics about the competition from the team:

Everyone hates waiting to get through TSA at airports, so the problem concerned TSA airport security checkpoints and asked participants to come up with a way to reduce wait time at checkpoints. We had to A) model the flow of traffic through the checkpoint and B) model how proposed changes to the checkpoint’s procedures would affect the wait times. We used a Monte Carlo simulation to model the flow of traffic, which is a type of simulation that accounts for random variables (for example, the time in between arrival of new passengers and whether or not someone would be pulled aside for random screening).

OTHER MLWGS NEWS

• AP Exams Weeks of May 1 and May 8
• 2017 "Thank a Teacher" Campaign

YA AUTHOR JENNY HAN, FORMER DRAGON,

APPEARING TONIGHT!

Jenny Han (Class of 1998) will be in Richmond soon for a stop on the book tour for her Young Adult novel Always and Forever, Lara Jean (http://www.simonandschusterpublishing.com/alwaysandforever/), the final volume of the bestselling To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before trilogy. 

Jenny will be at the Chesterfield Towne Center Barnes & Noble on Tuesday, May 2 at 7 p.m.
(http://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780061850596-0).  She would be delighted to see any Governor's School students, parents, and alumni who can attend.

Week of February 7, 2017

DEADLINE IS THIS WEEK FOR PURCHASING

NIGHT OF THE DRAGON TICKETS!

The deadline for purchasing Night of the Dragon Tickets is this Saturday, February 11, 2017!! You don’t want to miss this fabulous evening, so go to www.nightofthedragon.com/tickets to purchase tickets, drink tickets, and Heads or Tails Raffle tickets online today!

Event tickets are $60 per person and must be purchased in advance. There will be no tickets sold at the door. All tickets include reserved table seating. If you want to sit with friends, we will gladly attempt to accommodate your seating preference. Just let us know in the comment section. 

The catalog will be online in mid-February but here are a few of the Deluxe offerings to consider:   

• Wolf Gourmet Kitchen Appliances – Redoing your kitchen, or you want to upgrade your old appliances, enjoy perfect toasting, perfect smoothies and perfect baking with the Wolf Gourmet Toaster, Blender and Convection Countertop oven.
• The Governor contributes to the Auction– Relish the 2016 Governor’s Cup Winner – a bottle of Keswick Vineyards Estate Reserve Cabernet Franc, signed by Governor McAuliffe.  Also a wonderful gift for any Maggie Walker graduate – signed by Governor McAuliffe, a print of our school drawn by alumni parent, Eliza Askin.
• The Streisand Songbook with Ann Hampton Callaway – Enjoy four top tier tickets to the Richmond Symphony on Saturday March 11, 2017 as the multi-platinum selling singer, Ann Hampton Callaway, pays tribute to Barbra Streisand.
• And the coveted Parking Passes and Graduation seating!

MLWGS CLAIMS ITS 19TH REGIONAL AND STATE

CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE IN

"WE THE PEOPLE:  THE CITIZEN AND THE CONSTITUTION"

ACADEMIC COMPETITION

Maggie Walker’s ‘We the People’ team wins its 19th state title in the We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution, a civics and constitutional knowledge hearing held at the Darden School of Business at UVA on Friday, January 27.  Run by the Center for Civic Education and James Madison’s Montpelier, this year’s competition brought together teams from across the state to focus on their understanding of the Constitution and current and past events surrounding the United States Government. Students are divided into units and prepare a four-minute presentation on their focus area then participate in simulated Congressional hearings on a wide variety of topics from natural rights to immigration and Congressional representation.

This year Maggie Walker will attend its 19th national hearings on April 21-24, 2017, at the National Conference Center in the Washington, DC area, where students will compete with 55 other teams from all over the nation.  The students are aiming for a possible third national title, which the school won in 2003 and 2011, and to continue the school’s unbroken streak of top ten finishes. The ‘We the People’ program at Maggie Walker continues to help make Virginia a dominant force in civic and constitutional education.

Team Sponsor and Teacher: Mr. Sam Ulmschneider

Team Members, all seniors, include: Ryan Buscaglia, Mara Guyer, Kiersen Mather, Olivia Ratliff, Quan Chau, Omar Karim, Sophia McCrimmon, Robin Schwartzkopf, Parker DiPaolo, Jessica Kong, Christian Moore, Hugo Stack, Evan Fitchett, Parth Kotak, Jacqueline O’Neill, Harish Tekriwal, Avery Gagne, Genevieve Markee, Clare Perry, Adam Temple, Kiera Goddu, Emily Martin, Dharaa Rathi, Naomi Vickers

ON-LINE AP EXAM REGISTRATION STARTS FEBRUARY 7

From February 7 – February 24 - register for AP exams by visiting www.TotalRegistration.net/AP/471851

Each AP exam costs $93.00.  A fee reduction is available for families that meet federal guidelines but must be approved in advance. Please see Ms. Deck in the School Counseling office by Friday, February 17 to inquire about a fee waiver.  Last day to register for exams is February 24.

February 21 - February 24 – AP Fees and Registration Forms (cash or check made out to MLW Governor’s School) will be collected in the School Counseling Office (see payment schedule below) After this date a late fee of $10 will be charged per student.  Remember, you must present both your registration form and complete payment.

FEE COLLECTION SCHEDULE

February 21 -  Seniors - lunch, 6th and 8th block

February 22 -  Juniors - lunch, 5th and 7th block

February 23 -  Freshmen & Sophomores - lunch, 6 th and 8th block

February 24 -  Any remaining students - lunch and all afternoon blocks

REMINDERS:

• You may need to arrange transportation for afternoon AP exams.  Exams in the afternoon will not begin prior to 12:00 p.m. and may not be over before 3:30 p.m.  Plan accordingly.

• Exam pre-administration sessions (Bubblefest) will be held April 18 & 19 in the auditorium during lunch.  You must attend a pre-administration session in order to take AP exams.

ATTENTION JUNIORS!

The Coolidge Scholarship is a full-ride scholarship that covers a student's tuition, room, board, and expenses for four years of undergraduate study along with leadership training. This opportunity is for all high school juniors. All applications must be completed online and are due by February 22, 2017. For applications and additional information, please visit Coolidgescholars.org.

Capital One is proud to offer the 13th annual Future Leaders Forum for Young Women on Saturday, March 18. For more than a decade, the Forum has helped young women begin their personal leadership discovery journey by teaching them how to tap into their inner strengths and challenging them to make positive changes in their lives and in their communities. They also have access to our Capital One associate mentors who offer guidance and advice, serve as role models for leadership, and facilitate small group discussions. The registration form is available here: Future Leaders Forum for Young Women Registration Form. The registration deadline is Friday, March 3, 2017.

ATTENTION SENIORS!

The University of Westminister is offering five full scholarships for high school seniors interested in attending the London International Summer School in 2017. This scholarship includes round-trip airfare from US to UK, accommodations, tuition, and a meal allowance. Applications will be available until February 26, 2017. Please visit https://www.westminster.ac.uk/international/study-abroad/london-international-summer-school/the-fulbright-university-of-westminster-international-summer-institute to apply and for additional information.

Week of January 31, 2017

NIGHT OF THE DRAGON AUCTION

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2017

The 2017 Night of the Dragon auction is coming up on Saturday, February 25!  The auction raises money for the five booster groups, the PTSA, and the Foundation.

The auction committee would like to give a big shout out to everyone who has contributed to the auction this year. This year the committee is excited by the wonderful support the Night of the Dragon has received from MLWGS alumni and alumni parents! Some of the fabulous items donated by alumni include:

• Jeremy Grayboyes (’04) donated a beautiful watercolor and pen illustration of Fan houses. You can see more of his artwork, including cityscapes of D.C., New York, Baltimore, New Orleans, and Hong Kong, on his website. 
• Greg Butler (’00) donated a Friday-Sunday stay at his 3 bd/4 ba cottage in Charlottesville. Situated just off JPA, the cottage is just a three-minute walk from The Lawn and a ten-minute walk from the stadium. 
• Sarah Courtney Oklesson (’05) runs Grid+Love Designs and donated a framed copy of this gorgeous Richmond, VA print. Grid+Love prints are a perfect way to keep the places you love nearby no matter how far away you are. 
• Singer/songwriter Lucy Dacus (’13) has had quite a year. She landed a record deal with legendary indie label Matador and toured the US and Europe. Her debut album, NO BURDEN, has been praised by The New York Times, NPR, and SPIN, among many others. Rolling Stone ranked her song “I Don’t Wanna Be Funny Anymore” #17 on their best 50 songs of 2016 list. The Richmond Times Dispatch named her a 2016 Person of the Year. Lucy donated a signed copy of her album to the auction. 
• Jamey Stegmaier (’99)’s company, Stonemaier Games, produced the hit game Scythe after raising $1.8 million via Kickstarter. Jamey donated a signed copy of Scythe along with two of Stonemaier’s other critically acclaimed games: Viticulture and Euphoria. 
• Nathan Conway (’06) donated a gift certificate to Metzger Bar & Butchery in Church Hill, of which he is one of the owners. Metzger was named Style Weekly’s Restaurant of the Year in 2015 and has been praised in Eater and the Washington Post.

Special thanks to Alumni Steering Committee member Misty Clark (’96) who rounded up donations and gift cards from businesses around town in her spare time.

So come to the auction and see (and buy!) the creative results of MLWGS graduates - you will walk away impressed! 

COURSE REGISTRATION FOR NEXT YEAR IS COMING UP!

During the week of January 23, students will receive course registration materials.  The counseling department will be conducting lunch time assemblies with juniors on Friday February 3 and freshmen and sophomores on Monday February 6. In addition, the PTSA will host an Advanced Course Offerings and Course Registration Information Program for parents on February 9 starting at 5:30.  Department chairs and counselors will discuss course options and scheduling considerations.

Over the next several weeks, teachers will inform students of department course offerings and sequencing.  They will also sign student Course Registration Forms.  Students will need to have the Course Registration Form as well as VCU Dual Enrollment Forms completed and signed in order to register for classes on February 23 during 2nd period.  If students do not have required teacher and parent signatures on these forms, students will not be permitted to register for classes on the 23.

School counselors will meet with all students individually after the 23 during February and March in order to discuss course selection and verify course requirement progress.  Student course request changes will be considered through the Spring semester but requests made after the end of the school year will only be considered in exceptional circumstances.

Please contact your student’s counselor if you have any questions.

ON-LINE AP EXAM REGISTRATION STARTS FEBRUARY 7

From February 7 – February 24 - register for AP exams by visiting www.TotalRegistration.net/AP/471851

Each AP exam costs $93.00.  A fee reduction is available for families that meet federal guidelines but must be approved in advance. Please see Ms. Deck in the School Counseling office by Friday, February 17 to inquire about a fee waiver.  Last day to register for exams is February 24.

February 21 - February 24 – AP Fees and Registration Forms (cash or check made out to MLW Governor’s School) will be collected in the School Counseling Office (see payment schedule below) After this date a late fee of $10 will be charged per student.  Remember, you must present both your registration form and complete payment.

FEE COLLECTION SCHEDULE

February 21 -  Seniors - lunch, 6th and 8th block

February 22 -  Juniors - lunch, 5th and 7th block

February 23 -  Freshmen & Sophomores - lunch, 6 th and 8th block

February 24 -  Any remaining students - lunch and all afternoon blocks

REMINDERS:

• You may need to arrange transportation for afternoon AP exams. Exams in the afternoon will not begin prior to 12:00 p.m. and may not be over before 3:30 p.m. Plan accordingly. 
• Exam pre-administration sessions (Bubblefest) will be held April 18 and 19 in the auditorium during lunch. You must attend a pre-administration session in order to take AP exams.

NOMINATE A HISTORY TEACHER TODAY

The National History Teacher of the Year Award recognizes outstanding K–12 American history teachers across the country.

National winner receives a $10,000 prize presented at an award ceremony in their honor in New York City.

State winners receive a $1,000 prize, an archive of classroom resources, and recognition at a ceremony within their state.

Important Calendar Dates:

• Deadline for 2017 nominations: March 31, 2017. 
• Deadline for 2017 nominees to submit supporting materials: April 30, 2017.

For more information, please consult the Gilder Lehrman website at https://www.gilderlehrman.org/programs-exhibitions/national-history-teacher-year

ATTENTION JUNIORS!

The Coolidge Scholarship is a full-ride scholarship that covers a student's tuition, room, board, and expenses for four years of undergraduate study along with leadership training. This opportunity is for all high school juniors. All applications must be completed online and are due by February 22, 2017. For applications and additional information, please visit Coolidgescholars.org. 

Capital One is proud to offer the 13th annual Future Leaders Forum for Young Women on Saturday, March 18. For more than a decade, the Forum has helped young women begin their personal leadership discovery journey by teaching them how to tap into their inner strengths and challenging them to make positive changes in their lives and in their communities. They also have access to our Capital One associate mentors who offer guidance and advice, serve as role models for leadership, and facilitate small group discussions. The registration form is available here: Future Leaders Forum for Young Women Registration Form. The registration deadline is Friday, March 3, 2017.

Attention Seniors!

The University of Westminister is offering five full scholarships for high school seniors interested in attending the London International Summer School in 2017. This scholarship includes round-trip airfare from US to UK, accommodations, tuition, and a meal allowance. Applications will be available until February 26, 2017. Please visit https://www.westminster.ac.uk/international/study-abroad/london-international-summer-school/the-fulbright-university-of-westminster-international-summer-institute to apply and for additional information. 

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE MLWGS WE THE PEOPLE TEAM

FOR WINNING THE STATE COMPETITION!

On Friday January 27 in Charlottesville, the MLWGS We The People team, directed by Mr. Sam Ulmschneider, took first place in the state competition, vying against the ten high scoring teams from across the state. The MLWGS team will go on to represent the Commonwealth of Virginia in the national We the People Competition in Washington DC in April. Go Dragons!

NATIONAL POETRY OUT LOUD

REGIONAL COMPETITION
HELD FEBRUARY 6

Every year, students from all grade levels at Maggie Walker compete to represent the school in the Poetry Out Loud National Recitation Competition. This year’s winner, Sarah Law (2017), will be our contender at the Region 5 competition on Monday February 6. The program will be held at the Gottwald Theatre in the Carpenter Center on Grace Street from 1-4 p.m. It  is open to the public. If Sarah wins, they will go on to the state level in March. The National Competition Finals occur in April. Good luck!

PATRICIA E. TAYLOR AWARD FOR INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE
GIVEN TO MS. WILLIAMS

Ms. Lisa Williams, English department chair, is the 2016 recipient of the Patricia E. Taylor Award for International Experience.  Ms. Williams will use the grant to journey to the Golden Triangle.  Such an endeavor will allow her to better grasp the human condition of one of the most populous regions in the world and to better articulate ideas about the evolving definition of Third World as newly industrialized.  As traveling to India underscores a core component of the mission of MLWGS, cultural awareness, Ms. Williams, who is especially excited to experience India’s rich heritage, shares that “to learn about others is to uncover truths about humanity.”

FOR THE LATEST NEWS FROM MLWGS….

…..including the Director’s Blog Update, please go to http://mlwgs.com/mlwgs-news/.

SUBMISSION DEADLINES FOR NEXT WEEK

Because of some editorial travel, the deadline for the next issue of Smoke and Scales will be Wednesday, February 1 at noon. Sorry for any inconvenience and thanks for your continued submissions.

Week of February 9, 2016

COLLEGE KICKOFF FOR JUNIORS AND THEIR PARENTS

College Kick Off for Juniors and parents will be held TODAY, February 9 from 12:45 – 2:45 p.m. in the MLWGS auditorium. Admissions representatives from University of Pittsburg, University of Richmond, University of Virginia, University of South Carolina, and Washington and Lee will discuss:

• The College Search and Campus Visit
• How Colleges Select Their Potential Freshman Class
• The Application Process
• Honors and Specialty Programs
• The Role of Interview and Recommendations
• Financial Aid Overview

Junior attendance is required; parents are strongly encouraged to attend. A parent “meet and greet” sponsored by the PTSA will follow this program from 2:45 - 3:15 p.m.

BLOOD DRIVE

Maggie L Walker Governor’s School BLOOD DRIVE

THIS FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Rooms 104 and 105

We are hoping to get some parent donors to help us reach our goal of 30+ units!

• Please sign-up for an appointment time to donate with Mr. Blanton.
• All students age 16 and 17 must have a signed parental consent form to donate. Please fill out completely in ink. (Nothing in pencil will be accepted.)
• You must be at least 16 years old and weigh 110 lbs. to donate.
• Bring a valid I.D. Eat and hydrate prior to donating.

UPDATES FROM THE COUNSELING STAFF

PSAT Score Reports are being distributed to students this week during lunch-time assemblies.  During the assemblies, Counselors are outlining the new PSAT scoring system and opportunities for test preparation through the Khan Academy.  Please contact your student’s counselor if you have any questions.

Course Scheduling Forms are being distributed this week to all returning students during lunch-time assemblies.  Counselors and teachers will be working with students on selecting courses for next year.  The PTSA will hold a program on Thursday, February 11 at 5:30 for parents.  Counselors, Department Chairs, and Administrators will discuss the course registration process, advanced and elective course options, and Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment classes.

Intent to Return Forms were due on Monday February 8.  All students who wish to return to Maggie Walker need to submit a form to Ms. Zona Hicks (zhicks@gsgis.k12.va.us) in the counseling office as soon as possible if they haven’t already done so.

Parent Teacher Conferences will be held on February 18 from 4 -7 p.m.  Dr. McGee will be sending out a Powerannouncement this week with links to Signup Genius for conference registration.  The links will appear in the parent Powerschool portal later this week.

WE THE PEOPLE WINS STATE CROWN

Maggie Walker’s “We the People” team won its 18th  state crown in the "We the People" civics and constitutional knowledge hearings in Williamsburg on Friday, January 29.  Run by the Center for Civic Education and James Madison’s Montpelier, this year’s competition brought together teams from across the state to focus on their understanding of the Constitution and current and past events surrounding the United States Government. Students are divided into units and prepare a four-minute presentation on their focus area then participate in simulated Congressional hearings on the topic.

Last year, two teams from Virginia attended the national finals – Maggie Walker placed second nationally while Douglas Freeman High School placed third nationally.  MLWGS will go on to the national hearings April 29 – May 3, 2016, in Washington, DC where students will compete for their third national title (2003, 2011).

Team Sponsor and Teacher: Mr. Sam Ulmschneider

Team Members: Jacob Adams, Zachary Bampton, Nathan Berry, Marina Blough, Virginia Chambers, Cecilia D’Arville, Fionnuala Finn, Sunita Ganesh, Caroline Hanes, Elizabeth Hayes, Robert Hicks, Anthony Holten, Matthew Ladoscsi, John Li, Claire Mendelson, John Metz, Ben Milburn-Town, Tess Monks, Zoe Nelson, Reshini Premaratne, Claire Schweiker, Stephen Smith, Derrick Wang, Jake Zaslav

NIGHT OF THE DRAGON TICKETS UNTIL FEBRUARY 10!

Saturday, February 27, Short Pump Hilton, 6-11 p.m.

Go to www.nightofthedragon.com/tickets to purchase tickets, drink tickets, and Heads or Tails Raffle tickets online.

Event tickets are $60 per person and must be purchased in advance no later than February 10, 2016. All tickets include reserved table seating. If you want to sit with friends, we will gladly attempt to accommodate your seating preference. Just let us know in the comment section. For ticket information or other questions, please contact Amy Patina at abpatina@comcast.net.

The catalog will be online in mid-February but here are a few of the Deluxe offerings:   

• Wolf Gourmet Kitchen Appliances – Redoing your kitchen, or you want to upgrade your old appliances, enjoy perfect toasting, perfect smoothies and perfect baking with the Wolf Gourmet Toaster, Blender and Convection Countertop oven.
• A collection for the Jeffersonian – 19th Century UVA colored lithograph, Jefferson Whiskey, and Virginia Architecture book.
• John Barber Print - Amazing "Buying Oysters at Drum Point" John Barber Limited Edition Print, Artist Proof, 1984.
• And the coveted Parking Passes and Graduation seating!

Also

Corporate Sponsorship opportunities are still available! With four levels of sponsorship - $500, $1000, $2500 and $5000 – businesses of all sizes have an opportunity to reach the wider MLWGS community while giving back to the school.

To learn more about how your business can become a corporate sponsor, please contact Laura Lewis in the Governor's School Foundation at 354-1566, or Laura.Lewis@GovernorsSchoolFoundation.org no later than Friday, January 29.

MAGGIE WALKER WELCOMED INTO NFL SUPER BOWL HIGH SCHOOL HONOR ROLL

MWHS is welcomed into the Super Bowl High School Honor Roll community celebrating schools that have contributed to Super Bowl history. Quoting Roger Goodell, Commissioner; “As we mark our 50th Super Bowl this season, we are celebrating the players and coaches of the past 49 Super Bowls and their high schools and communities that have positively impacted our great game. Nearly 3,000 players and head coaches, and more than 2,000 high schools will be recognized this season.”

As a member of this special group, a commemorative Golden Football produced by Wilson is being sent to the high school of every player or head coach who was on an active roster in a Super Bowl. Maggie Walker’s Golden Football is in honor of Willie Lanier, a member of the Class of 1963 from Maggie Walker High School.

GSMUN XIX: WAKE THE NATIONS, MARCH 11-12, 2016

Maggie Walker’s 19th annual Model United Nations conference, GSMUN, will take place on March 11-12, 2016.  The event, consisting of 22 independent committees, expects to bring in delegates from 30+ schools across Virginia and Maryland.  Over 600 middle and high school students will debate policy issues ranging from the role of the aristocracy in 14th century Japan to the ethics of modern stem-cell research. 

GSMUN strives to promote awareness of international issues in our community.  Headed by a student Secretariat, GSMUN is also dedicated to raising money for global charities.  Model United Nations students from all grade levels participate in school fundraisers, culminating in conference donations and merchandise sales during the weekend of GSMUN.  This year, GSMUN XIX will raise money for One Hundred Pounds of Hope, an organization that provides education and emergency relief to the people of Cambodia.  Already, the students have coordinated three bake sales, candy gram sales, and a benefit concert featuring international cuisine and student performers. 

The theme of this year’s conference is Wake the Nations.  Much of the current leadership team has participated in Model UN all four years at Maggie Walker, and several even attended GSMUN as middle schoolers.  If you have any questions or would like to volunteer at the event, contact John Metz (gsmun.secgen@gmail.com) or Mr. Smith (msmith@gsgis.k12.va.us) for more details!

GOT STRESS? LEARN MINDFULNESS.

As part of the study and practice that the MLWGS mindfulness committee is engaging in this spring, students in 6th and 7th block study halls will have the opportunity to participate in a pilot test of a four-session mindfulness program taught by Ms. DeGroat.

Mindfulness is the practice of bringing full attention to what’s happening in the present moment without judgment.  Among other benefits, it can be a powerful way to reduce stress and improve focus and productivity. This particular pilot teaches the Koru Mindfulness program, a mindfulness program developed by Holly Rogers, M.D., and Margaret Maytan, M.D., and offered to undergraduate and graduate students at Duke University.

Since this pilot test will provide valuable feedback which will be of benefit to MLWGS in planning additional related programs, approval has been granted for students to earn five to twelve community service hours for participating. This opportunity to earn community service for participation only applies to pilot sessions and not to regular programs that may be offered in future school years.

A maximum of 14 students may sign up for each series.  A minimum of four students is necessary to hold the sessions. There will be nothing to read or watch for homework, but students will be expected to…

• Commit to attend all four 75-minute sessions (see specific dates below) during their study block.
• Practice the skills learned each week, keeping a brief log of their practice.
• Complete brief pre and post-program surveys.

Specific dates for the two series are as follows:

• Mindful Monday sessions from 1:50-3:05pm (7th block) on the following dates:
• Monday, Feb. 22
• Monday, Feb. 29
• Monday, March 7
• Monday, March 14
• Tune-in Tuesday sessions from 12:25-1:40pm (6th block) on the following dates:
• Tuesday, March 1
• Tuesday, March 8
• Tuesday, March 15
• Tuesday, March 22

Interested students should see Ms. DeGroat in the library by Thursday, Feb. 18th to sign up, or sign up online at http://bit.ly/korupilot.

MICHAEL WHITE ATTENDS AATSEEL ANNUAL CONFERENCE

When Russian language teacher Michael White traveled to Austin, Texas last month for the American Association of Teachers of Slavic and Eastern European Languages (AATSEEL) annual conference, it was the first conference he had attended in many years.   As he writes below, Mr. White returned to Maggie Walker with new ideas for his classroom and connections to his peers.

“Teachers are most motivated, productive and effective when we receive the support we need to be the kinds of active, engaged learners we want our students to be. That is why I am so grateful to the [Governor's School] Foundation for generously supporting my travel to and participation in the annual conference of AATSEEL, the American Association of Teachers of Slavic and East European Languages, in Austin, Texas, on January 7-10, 2016.

In Austin I learned things that will help me become a better teacher. I discovered and learned about ways to use technology in the classroom more effectively; ways to explore the benefits of the flipped classroom to make my class meetings more efficient; and new textbooks and online media that might serve my students better than materials we are currently using.

In addition to the absorption of ideas and content, I also enjoyed and benefited from making professional connections with K-12 teachers and college professors from all over the United States and several foreign countries. As the only teacher of Russian at this school (and, as far as I can tell, the only one within about 90 miles), I often feel isolated and disconnected from my peers. In Austin I networked with colleagues, shared experiences and ideas, and made connections that I expect to enrich my career, our Russian program, and opportunities I can offer to our students in the coming months and years.

It had been years since I had attended a professional conference; cost was certainly a factor. Please accept my sincere thanks for your generous support of this trip, without which these experiences would not have been possible.”

The Governor’s School Foundation’s Annual Fund Campaign supports programs for students, grants for teacher continuing education, and special projects for facilities and equipment. To donate online, please click here.

2016 SCHOLASTIC AWARDS SUMMARY

Talented MLWGS students in the fine arts were recently honored by having their work selected in this year's Scholastic Art competition.   This is a highly competitive art show which was made more so for MLWGS students this year because they competed in the Southeast Region-at-Large.  Despite this, they had another record setting year of awards, making MLWGS one of the most honored schools in the area and recognizing it as one of the region’s top schools for the Arts.    This success is due to not only talented students, but also excellent faculty and tremendous support from the school administration and the Visual Arts Boosters.

2016 Scholastic Art Awards Summary: 2nd year Southeast Art Region at Large

MLWGS students in the Writing competition earned 17 awards including:

• 3 Gold Keys
• 7 Silver Keys
• 7 Honorable Mentions

For the complete list of MLWGS Writing Winners, click here.

MLWGS students in the Arts competition earned 71 awards including:

• 18 Gold Keys awards, including 2 Gold Key Portfolios 
• 20 Silver Keys awards, including 3 Silver Key Portfolios
• 33 Honorable Mentions,  including 5 HM Portfolios

For the complete list of MLWGS Art Winners, click here.

Gold Key winners’ work will move on to the Alliance for Young Artist and Writers national adjudication process, where he/she will be eligible for further recognition and scholarship opportunities.  Adjudication of Gold Key works will take place in New York City and award winners will be announced in March.

NEW PRODUCTS IN THE DRAGON’S LAIR!

The Dragon’s Lair would like to announce the arrival of four new products!  Please stop by the store to see these great items in person.  The Lair is open during lunch on Tuesdays and Fridays as well as the 1s tand 3rd Wednesdays of the month from 8 a.m.-9 a.m.  These Wednesday hours are intended to offer additional convenience for working parents to stop by on the way to work.  We hope to see you at the Lair soon!

• Power Bank                $15
• Thumb Drive               $6
• Crew Socks                $15
• Baseball Cap – GREEN  $12

MLWGS COACHES INDUCTED INTO TJHS HALL-OF-FAME

Coaches Snagg (center) and Holdren (2nd from right) Inducted into Thomas Jefferson High School Hall of Fame

On Tuesday, February 2, 2016, Coach Jim Holdren and Coach Deborah Snagg were inducted into the Thomas Jefferson High School Hall of Fame.  Each was eloquently acknowledged for outstanding athletic accomplishments. Each received a trophy at the event. Later, plaques with details of their records will be permanently displayed in the halls of Thomas Jefferson High to inspire future generations. Maggie Walker is fortunate to have both of these beloved coaches continuing to work with our student athletes.

FREE FAFSA ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE THROUGH GRASP

(GREAT ASPIRATIONS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM, INC.)

GRASP (GReat Aspirations Scholarship Program, Inc.) will hold its Saturdays at the Library FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) event on February 27, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Richmond Public Main Library, 101 East Franklin Street.  GRASP advisors will provide FREE college financial aid counseling and assistance with completing the FAFSA, by appointment.  Call (804) 527-7743 to schedule your hour-long appointment.  More information is available at the GRASP website,www.grasp4va.org.

Free FAFSA assistance is also available from GRASP advisors at these times/locations:

Henrico County Library Evening Events:  THIS THURSDAY, February 11 at Twin Hickory (5-8 p.m.) – One-hour appointments can be made by calling the particular branch library.

Belmont Library in Richmond: A GRASP Advisor is available Mondays from 6 - 8 p.m. – Appointments can be made by calling GRASP at 527-7743.

SAVE THE DATE—PTSA MEETINGS

 Please “Save the Date” so that you are able to attend the upcoming General PTSA meetings at MLWGS.  These meetings are open to parents of all students, but will be particularly beneficial for parents of Freshman and Sophomores.  The MLWGS Counseling Department will be hosting the events to provide introductory information for parents on a few key topics.  Please know that parents of Juniors will be invited by the Senior Counselors to attend “College Kickoff” prior to the March 16 college overview meeting.

• THIS THURSDAY, February 11 at 5:30 p.m. in the Commons – Mr. Zweerwink will provide information on AP and Dual Enrollment courses.
• March 16 at 8:00 a.m. in the Auditorium (this may change) – Dr. Loving and Ms. Deck will provide an overview of the College prep and application process at MLWGS.

ON-LINE AP EXAM REGISTRATION STARTS FEBRUARY 8

From February 8 – February 26 - register for AP exams by visiting www.TotalRegistration.net/AP/471851 Each AP exam costs $92.00.  A fee reduction is available for families that meet federal guidelines but must be approved in advance. Please see Ms. Deck in the School Counseling office by Friday, February 19 to inquire about a fee waiver.  Last day to register for exams is February 26. February 23 - February 26 – AP Fees and Registration Forms (cash or check made out to MLW Governor’s School) will be collected in the School Counseling Office (see payment schedule below) After this date a late fee of $10 will be charged per student.  Remember, you must present both your registration form and complete payment.  FEE COLLECTION SCHEDULE February 23 -  Seniors - lunch, 6th and 8th block February 24 -  Juniors - lunch, 5th and 7th block February 25 -  Freshmen & Sophomores - lunch, 6 th and 8th block February 26 -  Any remaining students – lunch and all afternoon blocks

REMINDERS: 

• You may need to arrange transportation for afternoon AP exams.  Exams in the afternoon will not begin prior to 12:00 p.m. and may not be over before 3:30 p.m.  Plan accordingly.
• Exam pre-administration sessions (Bubblefest) will be held April 13 and 14 in the auditorium during lunch.  You must attend a pre-administration session in order to take AP exams.