Layout 2 - The Winston School San Antonio

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Issue X, 2012
Eagle News
The Winston School San Antonio
Advocating for those minds that learn differently™
Students using technology purchased with a generous donation from Rack Gives Back.
“Rack Gives Back’s mission is to provide Fanatical Support to the communities in which we live,
work and play. Enabling the next generation to learn with and through technology is something
we’re passionate about – and we hope we are growing future Rackers in those classrooms!”
— Cara Nichols, Director of Community Affairs at Rackspace
WinstonNewsletter_Issue10 7.0:Layout 2
ADMINISTRATION
AND STAFF
Charles J. Karulak, Ed.D.
Headmaster
Charles Acord
Director of Maintenance
Ruth Butler, M.Ed.
Curriculum Coordinator
Richard Garcia
Maintenance Assistant
Security Officer Sgt. Richard Gonzalez
Campus Security
Denise Hall, M.A.
Guidance Counselor
Mark Hambrik, B.S.
Athletic Director
Julie Holloway, M.Ed.
College & Career Counselor
Anissa Lopez, M.S.
Advancement Assistant
Michelle Mayer, B.F.A.
Advancement Coordinator
Carolyn Parsons
Administrative Assistant
Louise Pastorino, M.A.T., M.Ed.
Head of Lower/Middle School
Julie Saboe, M.A.
Director of Admissions
Rachel Trevino
Executive Assistant/Registrar
Lauren Walthour, M.P.A.
Director of Advancement
Steve Yocham, M.Ed.
Head of Upper School
Barbara Young, M.A.
Director of Testing Services
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Alice Viroslav, M.D. - Chair
Margie Warren - Vice Chair
Mary Hime - Secretary
Brett Morgan - Treasurer
Robert E. Bettac
Katherine Brown
David McGovern
Brett W. Schouest
Jaydine K. Zachry
Carol Zernial
MEDICAL /SCIENTIFIC
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Claudia Goswitz, M.Ed., M.A., CCC-SLP,
BCBA - Chair
Melvin Cohen, M.D. *
Courtney Crim, Ed.D.
Ken Davis, M.D.
Rocio Delgado, Ph. D.
Barry Dewlen, Ph.D.
Denise Hall, M.A.
Babette Hilderbrand, C.N.A.
Holly Baker Hill, Ed.D.
Charles J. Karulak, Ed.D.
Elda Martinez, Ed.D.
Thomas Matthews, M.D.
Steven Pliszka, M.D. *
Eleanor T. Robertson, Ph.D.
Patrick Teicher, Ph.D. *
Karen Waldron, Ph.D. *
*Emeritus Member
Authorized Organization:
The Winston School San Antonio
8565 Ewing Halsell Drive
San Antonio, Texas 78229
(210) 615-6544
www.winston-sa.org
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of The Winston School San
Antonio is to provide a personalized, college
preparatory education to students with high
potential and identified learning differences.
A Winston School graduate is confident,
well-rounded, and a life-long self advocate.
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From the Headmaster
In the fall, we received a technology grant from Rackspace Hosting.
This gift, along with a portion of the annual fund gifts collected, was
used to purchase 21 Mobi whiteboards and 24 Classroom Performance
System™ (CPS™) student response pads. The Mobi, an interactive
personal whiteboard, and the CPS™ student response pad allows
students and teachers to present, participate, sort, save, and control
information in an interactive manner. For those who have difficulty
with sustaining focus, this technology increases student attention
during classroom presentations. Both systems are extremely conducive
to our population of students with learning differences. This
Charles J. Karulak, Ed.D. technology is currently being tested in Mrs. Rhonda Green’s lower
Headmaster
school classroom and in Mr. Roger Dillard’s upper school classroom.
In the coming weeks, teachers will be trained on the Mobi and CPS™
systems using a self-paced, computer-aided program. We are grateful to Rackspace Hosting and
those who contributed to the “Paving the Way” Winston Fund Drive for providing us with the
resources to secure this technology to further meet the needs of our students.
From the desk of Steve Yocham, M.Ed.
Head of Upper School
In the past two years, the Upper School has introduced new remediation programs to help all
students overcome obstacles in their education. These programs are proving to be very beneficial
for students who have disabilities in reading and writing. Last year, we added the Lexia Program,
a computer-based program that focuses on all areas of the reading process. In addition, Mr. Paul
Erwin, former Headmaster, has returned to Winston to work with students who have challenges
with their writing process. He will utilize components of the Winston Grammar Program. We
are eager to see the results of these additional resources and programs.
From the desk of Louise Pastorino, MAT, M.Ed.
Head of Lower and Middle School
Even though winter has not quite released us from some wet, blistery days, it is not too early
to begin planning for summer. Summer is a great time to develop a life-long enjoyment of
reading. As a student’s reading skills and fluency improve, so will his or her confidence. Before
the end of the year, we will be sending home suggested reading lists. When choosing a book,
consider the student’s independent rather than instructional reading level. One way to check for
the appropriateness of the book is to use the “Five Finger Rule.” Have your student read the first
page of a prospective book aloud. If five or more words are misread, the book is probably at too
high a level for your child to read comfortably.
Summer is also a good time to develop listening skills by using books on tape or digital
recordings. No matter what their reading level, your student can comprehend age-appropriate
material read to them. Find audio books from iTunes.com and Audible.com or check out tapes
or CD’s from your local library. Remember to look for “unabridged” versions. A balance between
reading and listening is a good step toward increasing skills in each area.
Summer school is also a great option for our students. It not only addresses reading, but
language arts and math as well. Research has shown that children with any type of learning
difference can regress over time if not continually challenged to use the skills they have acquired.
WSSA has many options for your student over the summer. If you would like to discuss what
might be best, please give us a call at 210.615.6544.
Search for The Winston School
San Antonio and “Like Us”
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Search for @WinstonSchoolSA
and “Follow Us”
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School and Student News
7TH ANNUAL TALENT SHOW
AND DINNER
REMEMBERING
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
Eleven talented WSSA students entertained their families,
teachers and friends at the 7th Annual Talent Show and Dinner. The
WSSA Interact Club hosted the evening of Thursday, February 2, in
the school’s gym, complete with Rudy’s BBQ and delicious
homemade desserts.
Following dinner, Allison T., Sophie G., Kieva C., Jarrett T., Yoni
V., Lauren W., Skye S., Daniel A., Kinslee J., and Joe B. took turns
showcasing their talents, ranging from singing to tap dancing. Before
the last performer, Jake G. took the stage, a special presentation was
made to Dr. Karulak. Jack Orbin, WSSA parent, presented the school
with a generous donation on behalf of Stone City Attractions;
proceeds from the Trans Siberian Orchestra ticket sales in December.
After the final performance, guest judges, Jenny Cook (Greater
Helotes Texas Ms.), Haley Anderson (Greater Helotes Texas Teen) and
Wendy Thiery (owner of Silver Crown Productions, who provided
lighting for the show) tallied the contestants’ scores. Performing his
tap routine without music, Jake G. was chosen as the Upper School
winner. Danny A.’s piano performance earned him the honor of Lower
School winner. Yoni V. won Best Overall for his vocal performance.
The talent show and dinner was a success
thanks to the hard work ofTalent Show Coordinator
Sosha O., Master of Ceremonies Lindy C.,Technical
Director Cory W. and the WSSA Interact Club
members. They worked together with WSSA
Interact sponsor, Mike Canales, to plan and
execute another entertaining evening.
In remembrance of Martin Luther King, Jr., Winston students,
faculty and staff assembled in the gym on January 13th to listen to
and learn from guest speaker Clifton Fifer of Hands Across Texas.
Performers of Hands Across Texas dedicate their time to educating
children and adults about Texas history, promoting the cultural
diversity of Texas and honoring Texas’ ancestors.
Fifer is a retired teacher with 33 years of service in the Kerrville
ISD. He has won numerous awards including the Outstanding
Educator Award from the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library
and Museum. His passion for Texas stories and customs is
apparent in his informative and realistic presentations of life
as a black soldier,
cowboy,
and
Native American.
Everyone learned
a little history
about Martin
Luther King, Jr.
and the role of the
Buffalo Soldiers
in United States
and Texas history.
Danny A. with Greater Helotes
Texas Teen Haley Anderson
All participants received certificates for their performances
FULL AUTO BODY AND MECHANIC SHOP
T-BONE RALLIES WSSA WITH A ROARING
“GO RAMPAGE!”
Students showed T-Bone their Rampage spirit at a special pep rally on Thursday, January 5.
Cheerleaders warmed the audience with Eagle Pride prior to the Rampage representative, Joey,
introducing T-Bone. T-Bone is the Rampage’s mascot and beloved friend of WSSA. T-Bone
rallied the crowd in a round of “Go Rampage” and other activities. In return, the cheerleaders led
the crowd in singing “Happy Birthday” to celebrate the Rampage’s 10th anniversary.
Six students received certificates as proof they turned in their student Annual Fund Drive
donations early which secured them a seat in the Rampage Penalty Box prior to the game. Each
student had their picture taken with T-Bone. Ian B. and Aiden O. raised the most money
during this portion of the WSSA Annual Fund Drive and won a ride on the Rampage’s
zamboni. As a team, Mrs. Green and Mr. Booker’s classes raised the most money and watched
the game from a luxury suite. All the families in attendance showed up with WSSA spirit and had
a great time.
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School and Student News
2011 CONCLUDES WITH A FLURRY OF EVENTS
As the first semester at WSSA came to a close, special events celebrating students and families kept WSSA hopping. Wednesday,
December 7, 2011 commenced with the “Donuts for Dads” breakfast in the
library. Students and their dads spent some time enjoying breakfast together while
meeting with other families, teachers and staff.
Shortly after, the judging of the Science Fair took place in the school’s gym. Awards
were handed out to the winning science projects. This year, WSSA’s Science Fair had
fifty-five entries in ten categories. Twelve judges, who are college professors, doctors,
veterinarians, researchers, chemists, pharmacists, and nurses, reviewed the student
projects. Guest judges could be found in the halls debating on which students’ projects
were the best, noting it was a hard decision because they were all excellent. Congratulations
to all students who started and finished their projects and to the winners listed here:
Behavioral
1st - Jacob D., Jacob’s Movie Montage!
2nd - Emily K., Mirror, Mirror on the
Wall
Botany
1st - Andrew Z., Plants Love Light
Chemistry
1st - Alec D., Crazy Crystals
2nd - Amanda C., Battery Run Time
3rd - Lisa L., Bubble Gum Bubbles
Engineering
1st - Chris H., How Strong is the
Geodesic Dome?
2nd - Blake O., Scramble Inner Egg
3rd - Brandon A., How Does Evaporative
Cooling Work?
Environmental
1st - Tij J. , Breaking It Down
2nd - Noah S., What Plants Absorb
Pollution the Best?
3rd - Anthony B., Oil and Evaporation
Health
1st - Kayla T., Organic vs. Non-organic
Which Taste Better? 2nd - Hunter D.,
Germ Killers
Microbiology
1st - Mason G., Dogs vs. Humans
Physics
1st - Josh P., Fishing Line Additive
Zoology
1st - Annabeth P., Hay for Horses
Overall
1st - Arthur W., Wingin’ It (Physics)
2nd - Caleb E., Burn Baby Burn
(Physics)
The morning concluded with lunch back in the library as the students of the “Freedom Arts Magazine” released
their publication “The Secrets Within.” Student editor, Robert H., and Faculty editor, Mr. Booker, encouraged
students to conjure up their creativity and submit photographs, drawings, paintings, poems, and excerpts of longer
pieces. This student project was so successful in securing submissions that the spring issue is almost complete. This
year’s cover art work was created by Allison T. titled “Fire, Water, and Ice.”
During lunch, students read their works to the group. Guests included students, parents, faculty, staff, and local
author, James Brandenburg, President and Senior Editor of “Voices de la Luna.” Special guests in attendance were
David and Rebecca Hook, parents of Robert and Chris. A special thank you goes to the Hook and Dale families
for their support of this literary endeavor. Congratulations to everyone involved in this work of literary art!
STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
DECEMBER 2011
Back: Jack S., Thomas M., Emily K.,
Allison T. Front: Reagan S., Colby H.,
Robbie M., Holden B.
JANUARY 2012
Back: Joe B., Josh O., Elizabeth M.,
Sergio M., Alexis G. Front: Kason B.,
Carson C., Matthew A.
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FEBRUARY 2012
Back: Kayla T., Everett H., Robert H.,
Nicole S. Front: Ryan S., Joey M.,
Ryley H.
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School and Student News
WSSA INTERACT PARTICIPATES IN RYLA CONFERENCE
The Winston School San Antonio (WSSA) has sent junior
Interact members to the Rotary Youth Leadership Assembly
(RYLA) for the last 12 years. This attendance has been financed by
North Central Rotary Club, Interact’s co-sponsors. This year, two
senior Interact members were selected to attend RYLA as team
leaders. They were funded by the Boerne Sunrise Rotary Club,
Interact’s other co-sponsor.
The 2012 RYLA conference encouraged students to experience
new ideas and insights for more dynamic and effective leadership
both in and out of their schools. Students enjoyed hands-on and
interactive workshops and a challenging low ropes course. The
conference was held over the Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend at
the John Newcombe Tennis Ranch Lodge in New Braunfels,
Texas.
“We’re very proud of these young men and women. They
always return from RYLA highly motivated, armed with skills in
decision making and a firm grasp on how to work with their peers
as well as their underclassmen. They have represented our school
in a very positive manner and continue to uphold the Interact
Club’s high standards of commitment and dedication,” said Mike
Canales, club sponsor. This year, Lindy C., Sosha O., Kristin M.
and Marcos K. represented WSSA. Interact Club President,
Lauren R., and Vice-President, Jarrett T., attended and served as
team leaders.
As a follow up, they shared their experiences at the North
Central and Boerne Sunrise Rotary Club meetings. Additionally,
the attendees received Certificates of Completion signed by the
Rotary District Governor, along with plaques.
GRADUATE INTERN’S GOOD NEWS
From the desk of Julie Saboe, M.A.
Director of Admissions
WSSA’s partnership with Trinity University brings graduate
students on campus to work with WSSA students as part of their
educational requirements. This year Jennifer Grimm and Gracee
Trawick have been working with our Director of Testing Services,
Barbara Young. Their time at WSSA enhances their educational
experiences and plays a part as they interview for potential
employment. Grimm received good news in February that as one of 30
applicants, she was offered a position to join the Houston ISD Special
Education department for the 2012-2013 school year. Grimm will
receive her Master of Arts degree in School Psychology in the spring
of 2013.
We have welcomed eight new students in January and February
and I anticipate adding more students soon. We already have new
students that have been accepted for the 2012-2013 school year! Our
student body is made up of many talents. Whether their strengths
and passions are in the fields of athletics, art, drama, academics or
community service, the common trait that shines through is the
students’ resilience and commitment to success. If you know of a
student that may be a candidate for WSSA, please encourage the
family to contact me.
SENIOR SIGNS ATHLETIC LETTER OF INTENT
On Wednesday, February 1st, San Antonio was abuzz with 2012
National Signing Day. The WSSA campus joined in the excitement
as senior running back, LaJordan Wilkerson, signed his Letter of
Intent for a full athletic scholarship to Cisco College, 150 miles west
of Fort Worth, Texas. KABB Fox 29 recorded the moment and spent
time interviewing Wilkerson and Coach Mark Hambrick.
Wilkerson transferred from Robert E. Lee where he played
freshman and junior varsity football. Once Wilkerson started his high
school career at WSSA as a junior, it was head football coach Mark
Hambrick’s job to help Wilkerson make the transition to six-man
football. “It was trying at times to teach six-man football to an
athlete used to playing with 11 players, but he picked it up quickly
because of his natural talent and his ability to see the open field,” said
Coach Hambrick.
With only 20 games under his belt at WSSA, Wilkerson’s
statistics are quite impressive. He scored 132 touchdowns and rushed
for over 6,000 yards. Coach Hambrick used these statistics, along
with film highlights, to put Wilkerson on the college radar. Cisco
College liked what they saw and invited Wilkerson for a visit. Coach
Oscar Antopia, one of Wilkerson’s mentors, made the five hour drive
with him. WSSA students, teachers, and administration, along with
Coach Antopia and his wife Donna, looked on as he signed
his letter.
“I am thankful to my Winston teachers and the administration,
Coach Antopia, Coach Hambrick, and my mom and dad for
preparing me to be the man
I am today,” said Wilkerson.
He looks forward to playing
football at Cisco in the fall,
improving academically, and
eventually transitioning into
a four-year university or
college.
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Steve Yocham, Oscar Antopia, and Mark
Hambrick watch as Wilkerson signs his letter of intent
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Advancement News
ROCKIN’ THRU TIME...CLASSIC
CARS & THE KRAYOLAS
Pull up your bobbie socks, get decked out, jump into your bell
bottoms or other fave threads as this party spans the entire 60’s
classic car timeline. It’s our Rockin’ Thru Time auction gala! Invites
have blasted out our door.
Cool cars, cool drinks and cool music will fill the evening at
Don Strange Ranch on March 31, 2012, starting at 5:30 p.m.
Bring the gang and we’ll bring the church key. Cherry classic cars
will be displayed by Hovey Motor Cars and Dlux Hot Rods.
The Zots, otherwise known as Jonathan and Jude Morales, are
bookin’ to be the biggest rock stars of San Antonio. Their dad,
Michael Morales, owner of Rockstar Academy and hip 80’s rock
star himself, describes his sons as “...a rock band that just
happens to be young.”
The Krayolas headline the evening with hits to which everyone
can bop, groove or shake that thang. One of the American Pop
Underground’s best-kept secrets for more than three decades, the
Krayolas are tightly wired. Their music is with it — young, raw,
energetic, upbeat, charming, campy and fun. Always melodic, the
Krayolas easy-to-hum sound puts a smile on your face. It’s wow,
man.
If cars and chords aren’t your thing, no hassle, just join us for the
auction and food. Don Strange is outdoing themselves with a fab
choice of delectable yummies. After scarfing the buffet, you can
bid on a ton of gum-popping silent auction items. No biggie!
The goal is to net $150,000 for the tuition assistance program
and classroom enhancement needs at The Winston School San
Antonio. Right on!
So book it with your main squeeze and cruise on by at 5:30
p.m. at Don Strange Ranch, March 31, 2012. It’s the pits if
you miss this go-go!
Register online or call the Advancement Office to reserve your
seats. www.winston-sa.org/support-wssa/wssa-auction-gala or
210.615.7485
CELEBRATE FIESTA WITH THE
WSSA FAMILY!
RESILIENCE: POWERFUL
INGREDIENT TO ADDRESS
LEARNING DISABILITIES
Each January, physicians and other medical professionals join
educators and parents at Winston’s Learning Disabilities Symposium.
This year’s keynote speaker was Sam Goldstein, Ph.D., nationally
renowned psychologist, author and film maker, speaking on “The
Power of Resilience: Fostering Strength, Hope and Optimism in
Students with Diverse Educational Needs.”
As the only nonprofit in South Texas serving students who learn
differently, The Winston School San Antonio is “the” resource for
leading-edge information, testing and teaching success on learning
disabilities. In addition to educating
youths, this unique school provides free
and low-cost educational events to the
general public.
Next year’s keynote is Abigail Baird,
Ph.D., professor and developmental
neuroscientist from Vassar College. More
information is available at www.winstonsa.org or 210-615-7485.
WSSA has been chosen as a 2012 Official Texas Cavalier Charity.
Due to our affiliation with FIESTA events, FIESTA Royalty will be
on campus to spread the FIESTA spirit. On March 29th, El Rey Feo,
Richard Ojeda, will be on campus followed by Texas Cavalier’s King
Antonio on April 20th.
A limited number of tickets are available at a
20% discount to our WSSA families for the
Texas Cavalier River Parade on Monday, April
23, 2012 beginning at 7 p.m. Turn in orders to
Mrs. Parsons to reserve your seats.
• $22.00 ticket can be purchased for $17.60
(16 seats left near the beginning of the
parade)
• $24.00 ticket can be purchased for
$19.20 (16 seats left in the Rivercenter
Mall area)
To further celebrate FIESTA, purchase your
first WSSA fiesta pin and show your spirit
around town! They are available now. If you
have questions about our FIESTA activities, call the Advancement
Office at (210) 615-7485.
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Advancement News
ADVANCEMENT ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
JUNE 1, 2010 - MAY 31, 2011
W.E. COMPLETED THE RACE!
The inaugural Winston Eagle (W.E.) 5K Run/Walk occurred
Saturday March 3, 2012 at Shavano Park’s City Hall. Approximately
200 people enjoyed a brisk run or leisurely stroll with friends.
Participants were cheered on by spirited WSSA cheerleaders. Mr.
Booker and Coach Borth announced the winners. WSSA student
Chris H. placed first in his age group.
Afterwards, racers ate Opa’s sausage wraps and pastries and drank
juice or Starbucks coffee. Everyone danced and sang to music played
by DJ Rock from Boogie Down DJ’s. “A fantastic time was had by
all and we can't wait for next year,” said WSSA parent and WS
Parent Association president Valerie Williams.
PLANNING FOR TOMORROW?
Consider Winston’s Planned Giving opportunities. Other opportunities to support Winston include, Annual Fund Gifts, Honorarium and
Memorial Gifts, Company Matching Gifts, Securities, and Gifts In-Kind. Contact Lauren Walthour at 210.615.7485 to discuss various
opportunities or to make your gift today.
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Nonprofit Org.
U.S. Postage
The Winston School San Antonio
8565 Ewing Halsell Drive
San Antonio, Texas 78229
www.winston-sa.org
PAID
San Antonio, TX
Permit No. 1118
Parents of Alumni: If this publication is addressed to your child who no longer maintains a permanent address at your
home, please notify The Winston School San Antonio of the new permanent mailing address.
Phone: 210-615-6544 • Fax: 210-615-6627 • email: wssaalumni@winston-sa.org
A PEEK INTO SPRING 2012
Mar. 31
Apr. 6
Apr. 13
Apr. 27
May 1
May 11
May 16
May 18
May 19
May 21
May 23
May 28
June 11
July 4
Aug. 20
– 26th Annual Gala and Auction at
Don Strange Ranch
– Good Friday (School Closed)
– Spring Madness
– Battle of Flowers (School Closed)
– Athletic Banquet
– Muffins for Moms
– Middle & Upper School Awards
– High School Baccalaureate
– High School Graduation
– Lower School Awards
– Class Day Program, Noon Dismissal
– Memorial Day (School Closed)
– Summer Programs begin
– Independence Day (School Closed)
– FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL!
SUMMER SCHOOL AT WSSA!
June 11 – July 6, 2012
The following classes and programs can be taken on our campus.
This is open to all students in the San Antonio community!
• Academic review and enhancement for grades K-8
• Reading Intervention with Lexia Learning program
• Upper school classes for credit such as Algebra, Geometry,
English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics
• Performing Arts, Guitar and Art
• Summer Fun Camp
• Sports and Conditioning
Call 615-6544 or visit
www.winston-sa.org/academics/summerschool
for more information.
WELCOME!
The Winston School San Antonio welcomes Richard
Garcia as the new Maintenance Assistant. Mr. Garcia
comes to us from Bexar County Academy.
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