• February 5: Prospective Families Tour

• February 12: Lincoln's Birthday

• February 13: Prospective Family Tours at 9:30 am and 5:30 pm

• February 14: Valentine's Day

• February 16: Coffee with the Design Facilitators

• February 16: Interest List for the 24-25 School Year Closes

• February 16: Continuing Enrollment Survey Due
  

• February 19-23: President's Week (non student days)

• February 20: Washington's Birthday/President's Day

February, with its unique blend of brevity and significance, holds a special place in the calendar. Despite being the shortest month, it encapsulates a diverse range of cultural, historical, and seasonal events. February marks Black History Month, offering a dedicated time to honor the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history. Moreover, the anticipation of Valentine's Day brings an air of warmth and celebration, focusing on love and connection. This month serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity, diversity, and understanding within society. As winter begins to transition to spring in the Northern Hemisphere, February becomes a bridge between seasons, symbolizing hope and renewal.

From a Design Facilitators perspective, February's greatness lies in its capacity to prompt reflection and action. It challenges individuals to acknowledge the significance of love, unity, and equality. As people celebrate cultural milestones and honor the legacies of Black leaders, there is an opportunity for collective growth and understanding. February serves as a canvas for promoting principles of kindness, respect, and appreciation for diverse histories. Its brevity compels individuals to make the most of each moment, fostering a sense of urgency for positive change and a commitment to principles that uplift and unite communities.

And yes, February 29th IS a school day. Apologies for any confusion.

We anticipate heavy rains nearly every day this week. Please ensure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather and please allow extra time for a safe morning commute. Your family's safety is our priority.

Also, rainy days can be disruptive to a student's typical school-day routine: they may get a ride to school, rather than walk; they may have recess indoors, rather than outside; they may have to eat in the Showcase, rather than the turf; they may have MiM inside, rather than on the fields. Please encourage your students remember to the power of mutability, the value in embracing the liability or tendency to change.

Stay dry and safe.

SAVE THE DATE for Coffee with the Design Facilitators at 9:30 am on Friday, February 16th in the Gallery. Come caffeinate, collaborate, and conversate. A Google Form will be sent in next week's Designers' Reminder to collect potential topics.

To ensure you're informed, you can also stay up-to-date through the Design39Campus 2024-2025 Enrollment section on our website. Click the button above to access this information directly.

The Interest List for the 2024-2025 school year is live and will close February 16th. Please check the PUSD D39C Enrollment Page for additional details.

Design39Campus will offer multiple in-person tours for prospective 24-25 families. These tours begin in the Showcase and are adult only. This year, the preliminary dates are as follows:

• February 5: 9:30 am
• February 13: 9:30 am and 5:30 pm

Every year, we kindly request that you share your enrollment plans for the upcoming school year. This information is crucial for our enrollment and staffing planning. We specifically invite families with students in grades TK-7 to participate in the survey, encompassing all students associated with D39C. Your input is invaluable, and we appreciate your cooperation.

Kindly complete the survey by February 16, 2024.

To complete the Returning Student Survey for the 2024-2025 school year, please click HERE.

Thank you for your prompt response and collaboration, and for helping us prepare for the 2023-2024 school year!

**This survey is not Continuing Student Registration for the next school year. Continuing Student Registration will take place in March**

Happy School Counselors Week to all the dedicated and compassionate professionals who play a vital role in supporting students' academic, social, and emotional well-being! School counselors are instrumental in helping students navigate the challenges they face, providing guidance, encouragement, and resources to empower them to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

Throughout this week, let's take a moment to express gratitude to school counselors for their unwavering commitment to students' growth and development. Their tireless efforts in fostering a safe and inclusive school environment, offering individualized support, and advocating for students' needs are invaluable.

To all school counselors, thank you for your dedication, empathy, and passion for making a difference in the lives of students. Your work truly makes a positive impact on the future generation, and your contributions are deeply appreciated. Wishing you a fulfilling and rewarding School Counselors Week

At last week's D39C Equity meeting, several of our Black Student Union elected officers spoke about the important rule that the BSU has played for them at D39C. We were incredibly proud of the students for speaking with such confidence and grace about their experiences at D39C. Their voices were powerful and their sentiments are captured below.

According to our students, Black Student Unions (BSUs) are crucial because they provide a platform for Black students to address issues of representation, inclusion, and equity within educational institutions. These organizations create a supportive community where Black students can share their experiences, voice concerns, and collaborate on initiatives that address systemic challenges. By fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment, BSUs contribute to the overall well-being and academic success of Black students, who may face unique obstacles and forms of marginalization within predominantly white educational environments.

Additionally, Black Student Unions play a pivotal role in advocating for curriculum changes that accurately reflect the diverse contributions of Black individuals throughout history. They promote a more inclusive education that goes beyond token representation, helping to fill gaps in traditional curricula. BSUs often organize events, discussions, and educational programs during Black History Month and throughout the year, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of Black culture and history for the entire student body. In essence, Black Student Unions are essential in creating an environment that not only supports the academic success of Black students but also works towards dismantling systemic barriers and fostering a more inclusive educational system.

W.E.B. Du Bois, a towering figure in American history, was born in 1868, just three years after the Emancipation Proclamation. A sociologist, civil rights activist, and prolific writer, Du Bois co-founded the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in 1909. He vehemently advocated for civil rights, challenging Booker T. Washington's accommodationist approach and emphasizing the importance of political and social equality for African Americans. Du Bois's seminal work, "The Souls of Black Folk," is a collection of essays that eloquently explores the concept of double consciousness, the internal conflict experienced by African Americans living in a society that views them through a racial lens. His scholarship laid the groundwork for critical race theory and influenced subsequent generations of activists and intellectuals.

Du Bois's commitment to education was evident throughout his life. He became the first African American to earn a doctorate from Harvard University and dedicated himself to scholarship that addressed the systemic issues of racism and inequality. Later in life, Du Bois became increasingly involved in international affairs, advocating for global Pan-Africanism and participating in various conferences that sought to address the issues facing people of African descent worldwide. His life's work reflects a profound dedication to dismantling racial injustices and advocating for the full realization of civil and human rights for African Americans and marginalized communities globally.

Lunar New Year, celebrated by various Asian communities, is a festival deeply rooted in cultural traditions and rich symbolism. In 2024, the Lunar New Year promises to be a momentous occasion as communities worldwide welcome the Year of the Wood Dragon. The dragon is associated with strength, vitality, and good fortune, making this year particularly significant for those who observe the lunar calendar. Festivities during the Lunar New Year typically span over two weeks, allowing for a diverse array of customs and celebrations. Families gather for reunion dinners, where traditional dishes symbolizing prosperity and longevity take center stage. Bright red lanterns adorn streets and homes, while vibrant parades featuring lion and dragon dances bring communities together in a joyous display of cultural pride. Fireworks illuminate the night sky, signaling the end of the old year and the dawn of a new beginning.

As the Lunar New Year of 2024 unfolds, communities will engage in various customs to ensure a positive start to the year. The practice of cleaning homes, paying off debts, and resolving conflicts before the new year symbolizes a fresh start and the casting away of negativity. Families exchange red envelopes containing money, a gesture believed to bring good luck and prosperity. Temples and shrines become focal points for worshippers seeking blessings, and individuals reflect on the values of filial piety, gratitude, and harmony. The Lunar New Year is not only a time of festive cheer but also a period of cultural pride, reflection, and the strengthening of familial and communal bonds as people come together to welcome the opportunities that the Year of the Wood Dragon may bring.

The AVID Tip of the Week is start thinking about college and career readiness.

Encouraging middle school students to think about college and their future careers is essential for several reasons. Firstly, introducing them to these concepts at an early age helps instill a sense of purpose and direction. By exploring potential academic and career paths, students can set meaningful goals, develop a clearer understanding of their interests, and make informed decisions about their educational journey. Early exposure to college and career possibilities allows students to tailor their middle and high school experiences to better align with their aspirations, fostering a sense of motivation and engagement in their studies.

Secondly, promoting college and career awareness in middle school provides students with valuable insights into the skills and qualifications required for their chosen paths. It helps them understand the importance of academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and personal development in preparing for future opportunities. Moreover, exposing students to a variety of professions and higher education options broadens their perspectives, allowing them to make more informed decisions about their future. By fostering a mindset of continuous learning and career exploration, educators can empower middle school students to take ownership of their educational journey, enhancing their chances of future success and fulfillment.

A thank you to our Designers who donated to YIT. We were able to bring over 200 items to the center, bringing their staff to tears!

February Parent Education Courses

• Help Your Children Manage Stress and Anxiety – TK -5th Grade
• Are You Tired of Your Child Saying “No”? 6th-12th Grade NEW
• * Scholarships available for families that may be in need.
  

Matt Bibby (last names A-I): mbibby@powayusd.com

Jennifer Asmann (last names J-R): jasmann@powayusd.com

Andrea Guevara (last names S-Z): aguevara@powayusd.com

This week the Loft was transformed into a Starbooks Cafe. Here the students came together to sample books from different genres. Students enjoyed “tasting” books and rating their choices.

Digital media and technology are evolving at a dizzying pace, both unlocking extraordinary opportunities and posing real risks for young people. Students are using the immense power of the internet and mobile technology to explore, connect, create, and learn in ways never before imagined, both in and out of the classroom. At the same time, tech use can bring up ethical challenges such as cyberbullying and misinformation and health issues related to media balance and social and emotional well-being.

Design39Campus sees these as teachable moments. We believe that digital citizenship skills have become essential for students in the 21st century, especially this school year. That's why we are committed to teaching our students how to be digital learners, leaders, and citizens.

Design39Campus has just been approved as a Common Sense School, an honor that recognizes our efforts in teaching digital citizenship to young people and engaging the entire school community in this important discussion. The recognition acknowledges our school's commitment to helping students build skills that are essential for their well-being today—and for the opportunities they'll have tomorrow.

This honor is provided by Common Sense Education, part of a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in a world of media and technology.

We are one of the more than 80,000 schools across the country that use Common Sense Education's groundbreaking education resources. As a result, our students are better equipped to navigate the digital world and use devices for learning. We hope you will encourage other schools in our district to take advantage of them. If 75% of schools in the district become Common Sense Schools, we can earn recognition as a Common Sense District.

The Design39Campus student blog is a vibrant hub where designers share their experiences, ideas, and unique perspectives on Design39Campus. It offers a firsthand glimpse into student life, showcasing creativity and the power of student-led initiatives within the educational sphere. Reading this blog provides a direct connection to the student community, fostering empathy, understanding, and a glimpse into D39C.

Please click on the button above periodically to see what is happening around our learning facility.

Attendance and OCIS Contracts: If you have a student who will not be in class for 5-14 days, please notify the office so we can have the parents fill out an OCIS contract for their child. The forms will have to be completed and signed by parents 5-10 days in advance of the absence. Click here for a link to the OCIS Contract.

Parents are required to give 5 days notice for absences up to 5 days, 10 days notice for absences more than 5 days.

Prepping work for students who are absent is an incredible amount of work for our teaching staff and we ask that you give your child’s teacher as much advance notice as possible beyond the above guidelines.

We do not write contracts beyond 14 days. If you plan to be away for 15 or more days please contact the Welcome Center for the necessary procedures.

Would you like to become a part of the Design39Campus Team? Do you like to be outside and work with children? If so, we are looking for a few quality Motion Managers to help support our designers during body breaks and lunch during the middle of the day. Possible times are 10:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. or 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. If interested, please apply through Poway Unified School District at the this link.

Attendance: To report your child's absence or early checkout, please email the attendance office at d39cattendance@powayusd.com before 10:00 am on the day of the absence. Please include your child's name, homeroom/grade, dates of absence, and reason for absence. We kindly ask that you avoid checking out your student during the lunch period from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. Please refer to the attendance section of our Design39Campus website for protocols regarding reporting student absences and requesting early release for your student.'

California Education Code 48205 states that a student may be excused legally from school when the absence is due to:

• Personal illness or injury
• Quarantine under the direction of a county or city health office
• Medical, dental, or chiropractic services
• Attendance at funeral services for a member of the immediate family
• Justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an appearance in court, observance of a holiday or ceremony of his or her religion, attendance at religious retreats, attendance at an employment conference, when the pupil's absence has been requested in writing by the parent and approved by the principal or designated representative
  
• For the purpose of serving as a member of a precinct board for an election
• Exclusion for failure to present evidence of immunization
• Exclusion from school because student is either the carrier of a contagious disease or not immunized for a contagious disease

Communication with your Designer: If there is a need to communicate with your child during the school day, please send a message to your child’s LED or the Welcome Center. Please refrain from communicating with them directly through text messages or phone calls as it disrupts their learning.

Personal Items: For equity reasons, we are asking that students keep their personal playground equipment at home or in their backpack. Our wonderful Collaborative supplies us with enough funding to ensure that there is enough equipment during recess and lunch.

The D39C Collaborative is a 100% volunteer-run foundation designed to be responsive to the needs of students, parents, and learning experience designers of Design39Campus. Their mission is to expand and enhance the educational experience of every student attending Design39Campus.

PUSD Substitutes Needed: With flu, cold, and COVID season upon us, we are once again in need of qualified substitutes to support PUSD and our campus in the event of an LED absence.

If you or someone you know are interested in applying to become a substitute teacher with Poway Unified School District, please click here.

EmpowerED Digital Magazine: We are excited to debut the first-ever edition of our new EmpowerED Digital Magazine, to highlight all the ways you are empowering world-class learners every single day! We want to share with each other and the rest of our community what makes Poway Unified students, staff, and families so special in this visually pleasing, multi-media platform moving forward.

Click here to be taken to a flipbook to enjoy the magazine. You'll see slideshows, links, and videos embedded in the pages. We hope you love it as much as we do! Feel free to share it with your family, friends, alum, retirees - anyone who might enjoy it too.

Food and Nutrition Updates and Reminders: School breakfast and school lunch are FREE for all enrolled students, every school day. Meals must still be entered into the cafeteria computer by individual student account.

• Even though meals are free, families are still highly encouraged to complete the application for free and reduced-price meal eligibility. School site funding depends in part on the number of students eligible for free/reduced-price meals. Families that qualify for free/reduced-price meals may qualify for other benefits, as well. The meal application is available online at MySchoolApps.com.

• Printer-friendly PDF menus are available on the PUSD Food and Nutrition webpage. At the top of the page, click or hover over School Menus + and then Printable PDF Menus.

• Interactive, web-based menus containing nutrient and allergen details are available at MySchoolMenus.com, as well as via links from the F&N webpage.