As seen on a bumper sticker:

"Raising teenagers is like nailing jello to a tree."

CRCT reports will be mailed to all parents who re-registered their children to attend Inman in the Fall. Inman will not be mailing out CRCT reports to those parents who did not re-register their children. You may pick up your child’s CRCT reports when you re-register your child from 9:00am to 3:00pm on Friday, July 31st, Tuesday, August 4th or Wednesday, August 5th.

CRCT reports will not be mailed to familes of rising 9th grade students. Parents of rising 9th graders may come by the Inman Office to pick up CRCT reports for their students. The Inman Office is open from 8:00am - 3:30pm each day. Inman will be sending the school copy of the CRCT reports to the high school your student plans to attend.

Please note: the Georgia DOE did not report the CRCT scores for Social Studies this year for both 6th and 7th graders; these questions were field tested to ensure a better assessment for next year. As a result, the CRCT reports for those grade levels will show no scores for Social Studies this year.

2009 Virginia-Highland Summerfest - Celebrating 26 Years of Art, Food & Fun

Saturday, June 6, 2009, 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Artist Market closes at 6:30 p.m.)
Sunday, June 7, 2009, 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Free Admission, Donations Greatly Appreciated

Summerfest celebrates the beginning of summer with diverse arts, great food, live musical performances and much more. The festival takes place along Virginia Avenue, in the heart of historic Virginia-Highland. Voted the "Best Neighborhood Festival" in Creative Loafing and consistently revered by art professionals as one of the best artists' markets in the southeast, Summerfest is a great event for the entire family. Make sure you stick around and explore the unique shopping and eclectic dining throughout the Virginia-Highland neighborhood.

Community & Volunteers Dinner at Inman Middle School Upper Field - Friday, June 5, 2009, 7:00 p.m.

It's our 26^th anniversary and we are celebrating with dinner and a movie. Prizes will be awarded for the best wacky hats just before the Friday dinner. Bring ID to verify residency in Virginia-Highlands. The movie this year will be Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa and will begin at dusk (approximately 8:30 p.m.)

Additionally, there will also be two neighborhood Acoustic Street Parties at Virginia-Highland Island on Friday, June 5^th from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. and on Saturday, June 6^th from 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Support Inman at the Inman Drink Oasis at Virginia Highland's SummerFest

While visiting Virginia-Highland’s Summerfest, make sure you stop by to buy your refreshments at the Inman Drink Oasis. Stop by on Saturday June 6th and Sunday June 7^th and visit your friends and neighbors at this fun-filled fundraiser for Inman Middle School PTA. For more information or to volunteer, please contact Eric Dusenbury at ericdusenbury@gmail.com.

Saturday, June 6

11:30 am – 12:20 pm: Jackson County Line 12:40 pm – 1:20 pm: Hightide Blues 1:50 pm – 2:35 pm: Matt Hires 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Serena Ryder 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm: Davey Knowles & Back Door Slam 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm: Cowboy Mouth Sunday, June 7 12:30 pm – 1:15 pm: County Line Strangers 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm: Ponderosa 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm: The Constellations 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm: Manchester Orchestra

Street Party
There will also be an Acoustic Street Party at Virginia/Highland Island on Friday, June 5^th from 8 pm to 11 pm and on Saturday, June 6^th from 9 pm to 11 pm.

Volunteers Still Needed for the Photo Club Booth at Virginia Highland's SummerFest
Volunteer parents and students are needed to help run the Photo Club booth during the Virginia-Highland Summerfest, June 6^th and 7^th. Contact Pam Wolfe at wolfet@bellsouth.net to volunteer.

Kidfest at Summerfest - Volunteers Needed

The Kidsfest held during Summerfest on June 6-7 is looking for volunteers to man the newly expanded Kids area. All levels of experience are welcomed for 2-hour shifts. If you are interested in helping out, please contact Amy Guy at aguy@verabradley.com. Thanks in advance.

STILL WANT MORE…
Support Inman at the Georgia Renaissance Festival

The Georgia Renaissance Festival (through -Saturday, June 7th) welcomes families, friends and community supporters of the Inman Middle School with a special discount rate! When you buy your discount tickets online you'll get Adult tickets for $15.95 - that's a $4 Savings - and Child tickets for $6, a Savings of $2.95! Please use the "url" http://www.garenfest.com/promo/inmanms.php to go to a special web page on our site to purchase tickets. This page will recap the discount offer. Click on the "Click Here to Purchase Button" and go to Click-n-Print to purchase your tickets. Put in our promo code (inmanms) which is listed on the page at the end of the sale to get the discount.

PLUS for each Discount Ticket sold using your special code (inmanms), the Festival will donate $2 per adult ticket and $1 per child ticket back to The Inman Middle School! Experience and an extraordinary day of fun! Escape to the most affordable festival event, close to home! It's the 24th Annual Georgia Renaissance Festival, April 18th through June 7th, 2009, Saturdays and Sundays plus Memorial Day, 10:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Once inside the gates of our festival Kingdom, you'll find over 32-acres of world-class shopping, feasting on an enormous variety of delectable delights, endless entertainment on ten stages and thrilling rides in our medieval amusement park! Jousting on Horseback, - the original extreme sport - and the magnificent highflying Birds of Prey and Animal Shows are not to be missed! NEW for 2009! Concerts on the 4-ton bronze bell Cast in Bronze Carillon and The Royal Lipizzaner Stallion Show!

Don’t Forget:
· Update your email address book with this new email address: inman8thgrade@gmail.com.
· View the 8^th grade Summer Reading List and 8^th grade Supply list at http://inmanmom.blogspot.com.
· Mark your calendar for Meet & Greet on Friday, August 7, 2009 and the first day of School on Monday, August 10, 2009.

Enjoy your Summer Break!

Final 7th Grade Honors Assembly
There will be an Honors Assembly for 7th grade on Friday, May 22nd at 2:00pm in the Inman Auditorium. Awards will be given for Honor Roll, Principal's List and Perfect Attendance. Please come and cheer on our 7th graders for their academic achievements!

Please return all textbooks and Library books
Remember to have your student return all textbooks to their teachers and library books to the Media Center on or before May 22nd. Outstanding books will result in having your child’s report card held until the books are returned or paid for.

Summer Reading!!
It is important for students to continue their independent reading over the summer. Try getting involved in choosing their next novel. For example, if your student is leaning towards choosing a book from the Goosebumps series... try steering them towards a classic like “Flowers For Algernon” by Dani Keyes instead. Perhaps you can read it together or listen to an audio book during o long car drive. The following is a list of recommended books that should both excite and challenge students:

Orphan Train Rider by Andrea Warren
A Lion Called Christian: The True Story of a Remarkable Bond between Two Friends and a Lion by Anthony Bourke and John Rendell
In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson by Betty Boa Lord
Old World Continents: Europe, Asia and Africa by Bruce McClish
Hoot by Carl Hiassen
Girls Think of Everything: Stories of Ingenious Inventions by Women by Catherine Thimmesh
The Chosen by Chaim Potok
My Brother Sam Is Dead by Christopher Collier & James Lincoln Collier
God, Dr. Buzzard and the Bolito Man by Cornelia Walker Bailey
Baseball in April by Gary Soto
ZAP! Blink! Taste! Think! by Janet Parks Chahrour
Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli
Last Shot: A Final Four Mystery by John Feinstein
Born Free by Joy Adamson
It’s Not Magic, It’s Science! 50 Science Tricks That Mystify, Dazzle & Astound! by Lark Books
The Rising Star of Rusty Nail by Leslie Blume
A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park
The Giver by Lois Lowry
Holes by Louis Sachar
George’s Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy & Stephen Hawking
Hoop Girlz by Lucy Jane Bledsoe
Cool Salsa: Bilingual Poems on Growing Up Latino by Mari L. Carlson
Dust to Eat, Drought and Depression in the 1930’s by Michael Cooper
Heat by Mike Lupica
Travel Team by Mike Lupica
A Girl Named Disaster by Nancy Farmer
The Pluto Files: The Rise and Fall of American’s Favorite Planet by Neil deGrasse Tyson
Bronx Masquerade by Nikki Grimes
Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz-Ryan
Loch by Paul Zindel
Dive Right In by Robert Hirschfield
The House on Mango Street by Sandra Sisneros
Year of Impossible Goodbyes by Sook Nyul Choi
The Dark Is Rising by Susan Cooper
Over Sea, Under Stone by Susan Cooper
Football Hero by Tim Green
Cousins by Virginia Hamilton
Darnell Rock Reporting by Walter Dean Myers
Handbook for Boys: A Novel by Walter Dean Myers
Slam by Walter Dean Myers
Somewhere in the Darkness by Walter Dean Myers
Brown Angels (Poetry) by Walter Dean Myers
The Journal of Joshua Loper: A Black Cowboy by Walter Dean Myers
A Mango-Shaped Space by Wendy Mass
Go Big or Go Home by Will Hobbs
Financial Planning for Teens: Teen Success Stories, Volume One by Yvonne Brooks

8th Grade School Supplies:
Back-to-School packs with all school supplies will be available for purchase from the Inman School Store at Meet & Greet on Friday, August 7th from 1:30-3:30pm. However, if you are interested in buying your items separately, below is the supply list for 8th grade:

3-ring binder (3-4” needs to hold all subjects)
Dividers for 3 ring binder
Pens (blue or black ink)
Mechanical pencils and extra lead (or #2 pencils)
1 composition book
Spiral notebook (70+ pages, with holes to fit in binder)
Loose-leaf paper
Colored pencils
Highlighters
Graph paper (math and science)
USB Jump Drive (at least 2GB)
Calculator
Metric ruler
2 Journal notebooks (marble notebook)
Glue Stick
Scissors

Please add new email address to your email address book:
Please add inman8thgrade@gmail.com to your email address book to prevent 8th grade updates from being delivered to our Spam Folder. I will be moving our email list to the new address in the next few weeks and will begin using this address to communicate with you over the Summer and into the new school year. I am looking forward to another year of keeping you informed!

Save Your Subscriptions
Remember to save your magazine subscriptions for Inman's annual Magazine Sale which begins in August. Your family will have the opportunity to support Inman Middle School PTA by purchasing one of over 750 magazines available through the American Publishers Hearst reading program. You can buy a new magazine subscription or renew an existing one, or even make a direct donation to the PTA if you prefer.

Facebook User?
Join the new Inman Middle School Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/find-friends/?ref=pf#/group.php?gid=74651286034&ref=ts

If you have a rising in-zone Inman 7th or 8th grader and did not re-register today, it is very important that you re-register your student tomorrow from 8am to 3pm or Wednesday, May 13th from 10am to 6pm. An early and accurate registration of all returning Inman students allows Inman to schedule and plan for the incoming classes!! Inman Middle School previously mailed to all in-zone rising 7th and 8th grade families the document list and forms required to register.

All of the documents in the forms requested are required to register - no exceptions. Necessary forms include the APS Enrollment Form and the APS General Enrollment Affidavit which are available at https://inmanmiddleschool.org/School_Forms.html. Please also remember to bring a current Georgia Power Bill, a current Deed or Mortgage statement, and a voided check or Driver's license copy with current address.

At registration, you will also be required to sign the “APS Cellphone Policy and Regulations” and make the Connections Class selection for your student. If possible, please print off the document and bring the completed original with you to registration. You might find it advisable to discuss the Connections Class options with your student in advance of registration. Once you have registered him/her for Connections, his/her schedule cannot be changed for the entire year. At registration, you will receive your family’s password and information to the new APS Infinite Campus and have the opportunity to receive introductory training. You will also have the option to purchase Coach Books (don’t forget to bring your payment if you wish to purchase the books).

REMEMBER you MUST complete the re-registration process in order for your student to attend Inman next year. Students will be withdrawn at the end of the 08-09 school year unless we have current re-registration documents on file.

Egg Project begins Today!

This Science project is a perennial favorite among 7th graders. They love to complain about taking care of their "babies" when in truth they enjoy the experience. Students will be assigned "families," occupations, expenses and health issues which they must balance to see what it is really like to run a household with a child (or in some cases twins!) Student families are assigned a baby (hard boiled egg) which they must care for constantly over a two-week period. Students are required to take the egg home each day and return with the egg to school each day of the project period. Students are penalized for broken eggs and eggs are sent to "DFACS" if left behind in the classroom. Please be prepared to help your student with his or her family management as would any good grandparent! Good Luck to all our new "mommies" and "daddies!"

Re-Registration Reminder for returning students:
Please remember to re-register your student during Inman's annual Re-Registration Process which will be held May 11th-13th for all students planning to return to Inman for the 2009-10 school year. Necessary forms include the APS Enrollment Form and the APS General Enrollment Affidavit which are available on the Inman web site at https://inmanmiddleschool.org/School_Forms.html. Please also remember to bring a current Georgia Power Bill, a current Deed or Mortgage statement, and a voided check or Driver's license copy with current address. You MUST complete the re-registration process in order for your child to attend Inman next year. Students will be withdrawn at the end of the 08-09 school year unless we have current re-registration documents on file. If you have questions regarding the re-registration process or requirements, contact Ms. Walz (802-3216) or Ms. Blevins (802-3215) in the Inman Guidance Office.

Order Your COACH Books:
Over the weekend rising 6th, 7th and 8th grade families should have received a mailing from Inman with a reminder about re-registration. Enclosed in that mailing was information about Georgia Performance Standard Coach Books. Parents can pre-order Math, Science, SS, and ELA/Reading Coach books for home use for next year. These can be ordered at the Inman re-registration May 11-13th. (Rising 6th grade parents can order theirs on registration day on May 15th.) Books will be delivered in time for pick-up at Meet & Greet on August 7th or will be delivered to your student's homeroom during the first week of school in August. All 4 books are available for $45 (cash or money order). Individual subject books are $12 each. These books will be very helpful for parents to both help their students at home as well as just to understand the Georgia Performance Standards for the upcoming year. For more information, please contact Marissa Kalu-Thompson at mkthompson@atlanta.k12.ga.us.

The Inman Theatre Team presents...Enjoy an evening at the Theatre by attending the Inman Theatre Team's performance of "30 Reasons Not To Be in a Play" this Friday evening (April 17) at 8:00pm in the Inman Auditoritum. An encore performance will be held Saturday, April 18th at 8:00pm also in the Inman Auditorium. Come see your fellow Inman classmates in a dramatic performance that should not be missed! Tickets will be on sale at the door: $5 for students, $10 for adults.

Mid-semester Progress reports:Mid-semster progress reports will be coming home with students on Friday. Please look for them, and remember to sign and send them back!

CRCT test dates are April 21st- April 27th, 2009
The CRCT is quickly approaching and your support at home is always appreciated, particularly, at this critical time in the year. The Georgia Department of Education has released and published sample CRCT questions used in prior years. In addition, the GOAS (CRCT prep) portal is up and running. Please be aware students at Inman have been and continue to use this portal as a resource in their classes. All students should have their log in and passwords. However, if your child needs a reminder, please do not hesitate to contact their Home Room teacher.

During the testing week, all students will be completing a section/core subject per day:
Tuesday, April 21st – Reading
Wednesday, April 22nd – Language Arts
Thursday, April 23rd – Math
Friday, April 24th – Science
Monday, April 27th – Social Studies

Testing will be held each morning. Please make sure your child has a healthy breakfast every morning, and gets at least 8 hours of sleep at night (if at all possible). Parents: please do not schedule family vacations during this time, and please get students to school on time. This week of testing is considered a critical time for all of our students, particularly, our 8th graders. Both Math and Reading subjects must be passed in the 8th grade for promotion to 9th grade. Please go to the following links for additional CRCT resources and testing prep: http://www.doe.k12.ga.us/ci_testing.aspx http://www.doe.k12.ga.us/ci_testing.aspx?PageReq=CI_TESTING_CRCT https://www.georgiaoas.org/servlet/a2l If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Marissa Kalu-Thompson at mkthompson@atlanta.k12.ga.us.

Get Involved – Inman PTA Nominations Committee is Forming
PTA is currently seeking a Nominations Committee that will work to fill all of the positions for the 2009-2010 school year. The term for each position is a one (1) year commitment. As you think about accepting a leadership role in the PTA, remember "Making every child's potential a reality" is the vision for PTA. The PTA will remain vital only with the continued support of our volunteers. Please consider joining the Nominations Committee and/or becoming a member of the upcoming 2009-2010 Executive Board and Board of Directors. If interested, please contact Claristine Pinckney at imanptapres@gmail.com.

IMPORTANT MESSAGE regarding the Proper Use of the Upper Field at Inman:
As many of you have heard, APS has announced that signs will be placed on the Inman Upper Field prohibiting dogs from trespassing on the property. These signs are highly visible at other APS Schools in the neighborhood. The administration at Inman Middle School is charged with upholding APS policies and should not be blamed for the initiation of this rule. Any questions regarding APS policies and procedures should be directed to the APS Board of Education. Our District 3 Board Representative, Cecily Harsch-Kinnane, can be contacted at chkinnane@atlantapublicschools.us.

Inman students use the Upper Field at Inman for activities during school hours and the Athletics Department uses this space for practices outside of school hours. Public Health laws require that all animal waste be removed and disposed of properly. Unfortunately, allowing dogs to run free results in unnoticed waste that is not cleaned in accordance with these laws. Further, it is against all City and County Ordinances to allow dogs off-leash at any time, except in designated areas or on the owner's personal property. The Upper Field at Inman is not a designated dog park; however, the Dog Park at Piedmont Park is a short distance from the Upper Field and is a designated area. The Inman community has always prided itself on its friendliness and cohesiveness. It would be a shame to allow such a clear-cut issue to interfere with those relationships. Our Inman students should have access to clean facilities and not feel threatened by unleashed animals. Thank you for your help and support in this matter.

2009-2010 APS School Calendar
For those who like to plan ahead, the first day of school for the 2009-2010 school year will be Monday, August 10, 2009. To view the 2009-2010 APS school calendar, please visit http://aps.schoolwires.net/186110121116728653/lib/186110121116728653/2009-10_traditional.pdf.

RESCHEDULED - CINS' Meeting - "A First Look at Grady High School Transformation"

The meeting has been rescheduled for Wednesday, April 1, at 7:00 PM, in the Inman Middle School Auditorium. The meeting is free and open to the community. The CINS Board has sent APS a list of questions and concerns submitted by the community and asked that answers be provided at this meeting. Please review the content about High School Transformation on the APS website (whttp://www.atlanta.k12.ga.us/ <http://wwww.atlanta.k12.ga.us/> , on the home page, under strategic initiatives) in advance of this meeting. A transcript of the meeting will be posted on the CINS website http://www.cinsatlanta.com/ <http://www.cinsatlanta.com/> after the meeting.

Hi All:

It is hard to believe we only have 7 more weeks of 7th grade!! Expect to hear more from me in the upcoming weeks…

A Note to 7-1 Parents:
Ms. Tracey Wilson is scheduled to return to Inman on Monday, April 13th. She fell last week as she was leaving for work and injured her knee. She had surgery and is recovering well. She plans to be back on the 13th, but will probably be in a wheelchair or on crutches. She is anxious to be back and misses her students. Thanks or your understanding.~Dr. Bockman

HELP GRADY HIGH SCHOOL WIN $5000!
The ING Marathon takes place this Sunday, March 29th starting at 7am. All along the race course, "cheer zones" will be set up to encourage and motivate the runners as they pass by. Following the race, the runners will have a chance to vote for the most spirited cheer zones with cash prizes awarded to first, second and third place. Grady High School will be hosting our own "Cheer Zone" and we need your help to make it the loudest, proudest and best of all! Nick McFarlin will be there with his DJ gear providing music, BUT WE NEED YOU! Bring signs, banners, noise makers... wear orange (for ING) or Grady colors... and meet us at the 10th Street entrance. The more people we have the better our chance of winning - plus, it’s a fun way for you to get volunteer hours. Grady High School's ING Marathon "Cheer Zone" Sunday, March 29th starting at 7am. Come show your Grady spirit!

Earth Hour TONIGHT
Saturday, March 28th from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. wherever you are, turn off your power to take a stand against Global Warming. Visit http://www.earthhour.org/home for more information.

Community Meeting on the APS Proposed Budget Thursday April 2nd at 6:00 in the Inman MS Auditorium.

In lieu of the Inman PTA General Meeting originally scheduled for Thursday, April 2nd, Inman will be hosting the APS Community Meeting on the Proposed General Fund Budget for Fiscal Year 2009-2010 on Thursday, April 2 at 6:00 pm. Chuck Burbridge, APS Chief Financial Officer, APS will provide a brief overview of the proposed budget for the next school year followed by questions and answers. Questions will be taken from the floor, but if individuals have very detailed questions, those can submitted online through the link below (request that the question be answered at this meeting). Questions should be submitted at least one week prior to the meeting. The budget and related documents are up on the APS Website.

Bodies Exhibit Field TripField trip permission forms and the $16 admission fee for the Bodies Exhibit are due tomorrow - Tuesday, March 17th. If you are unable to pay the $16, you may request a scholarship in writing to your child’s teacher. We are requesting that every student attend this trip as it is a great learning opportunity. Sincerely,Ms. Price 7-1Ms. Schlegel 7-2Ms. Hughes 7-3

PTA Nominations
The Inman PTA Nominating Committee is now accepting nominations for the 2009-2010 Inman PTA Board. The Nominating Committee will present the slate of candidates for the 2009-2010 Executive Committee at the Thursday, May 7, 2009 PTA meeting.

The positions available for nominees are:
§ President
§ Vice President - Communications
§ Vice President – Education
§ Vice President – Fundraising
§ Vice President – Parent Involvement
§ Vice President - Special Events
§ Vice President – Advocacy
§ Recording Secretary
§ Treasurer

The deadline for nominations is 4:00 p.m., Monday, April 20, 2009. Please submit your nomination(s) via e-mail to inmannominations@gmail.com or in writing. There is a box and nomination forms in the Inman Middle School Main Office for written nominations. Thank you!

Dear 7th grade parents:

Next week, Inman will be mailing out the 3rd quarter report cards. In the envelope you will also find very important information about Re-registration for the 2009-2010 school year. All students returning to Inman for the next school year MUST complete the re-registration process. If you do not re-register, we will assume you are not returning and we will not place your child in a class for next year.

Detailed information and forms are included in the report card envelope. May 11th, 12th, and 13th are the days designated for re-registering your child. Make sure you have all necessary information and documents before you come to re-register your child. I cannot tell you how important re-registration is in making plans for next year in terms of teacher staffing, class assignments, and obtaining instructional resources and supplies to meet the needs of the Inman community.

Additionally, if your child will not be returning to Inman, please let our counselors know. (skwalz@atlanta.k12.ga.us; tblevins2@atlanta.k12.ga.us) That information is also critical to planning for next year.

Thank you!

Dr. Bockman

CRCT test dates are April 21st- April 27th, 2009
The CRCT is quickly approaching and your support at home is always appreciated, particularly, at this critical time in the year. The Georgia Department of Education has released and published sample CRCT questions used in prior years. In addition, the GOAS (CRCT prep) portal is up and running. Please be aware students at Inman have been and continue to use this portal as a resource in their classes. All students should have their log in and passwords. However, if your child needs a reminder, please do not hesitate to contact their Home Room teacher.

During the testing week, all students will be completing a section/core subject per day:
Tuesday, April 21st – Reading
Wednesday, April 22nd – Language Arts
Thursday, April 23rd – Math
Friday, April 24th – Science
Monday, April 27th – Social Studies

Testing will be held each morning. Please make sure your child has a healthy breakfast every morning, and gets at least 8 hours of sleep at night (if at all possible). Parents: please do not schedule family vacations during this time, and please get students to school on time. This week of testing is considered a critical time for all of our students, particularly, our 8th graders. Both Math and Reading subjects must be passed in the 8th grade for promotion to 9th grade. Please go to the following links for additional CRCT resources and testing prep: http://www.doe.k12.ga.us/ci_testing.aspx http://www.doe.k12.ga.us/ci_testing.aspx?PageReq=CI_TESTING_CRCT https://www.georgiaoas.org/servlet/a2l If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Marissa Kalu-Thompson at mkthompson@atlanta.k12.ga.us

Get Involved – Inman PTA Nominations Committee is Forming:
PTA is currently seeking a Nominations Committee that will work to fill all of the positions for the 2009-2010 school year. The term for each position is a one (1) year commitment. As you think about accepting a leadership role in the PTA, remember "Making every child's potential a reality" is the vision for PTA. The PTA will remain vital only with the continued support of our volunteers. Please consider joining the Nominations Committee and/or becoming a member of the upcoming 2009-2010 Executive Board and Board of Directors. If interested, please contact Claristine Pinckney at imanptapres@gmail.com.

IMPORTANT MESSAGE regarding the Proper Use of the Upper Field at Inman:
As many of you have heard, APS has announced that signs will be placed on the Inman Upper Field prohibiting dogs from trespassing on the property. These signs are highly visible at other APS Schools in the neighborhood. The administration at Inman Middle School is charged with upholding APS policies and should not be blamed for the initiation of this rule. Any questions regarding APS policies and procedures should be directed to the APS Board of Education. Our District 3 Board Representative, Cecily Harsch-Kinnane, can be contacted at chkinnane@atlantapublicschools.us.

Inman students use the Upper Field at Inman for activities during school hours and the Athletics Department uses this space for practices outside of school hours. Public Health laws require that all animal waste be removed and disposed of properly. Unfortunately, allowing dogs to run free results in unnoticed waste that is not cleaned in accordance with these laws. Further, it is against all City and County Ordinances to allow dogs off-leash at any time, except in designated areas or on the owner's personal property. The Upper Field at Inman is not a designated dog park; however, the Dog Park at Piedmont Park is a short distance from the Upper Field and is a designated area. The Inman community has always prided itself on its friendliness and cohesiveness. It would be a shame to allow such a clear-cut issue to interfere with those relationships. Our Inman students should have access to clean facilities and not feel threatened by unleashed animals. Thank you for your help and support in this matter.

2009-2010 APS School Calendar:
For those who like to plan ahead, the first day of school for the 2009-2010 school year will be Monday, August 10, 2009. To view the 2009-2010 APS school calendar, please visit http://aps.schoolwires.net/186110121116728653/lib/186110121116728653/2009-10_traditional.pdf.

St. Valentine's Day History:
In Rome in A.D. 270, Valentine enraged the mad emperor, Claudius II who had issued an edict forbidding marriage. Claudius felt that married men made poor soldiers, and therefore abolished marriage. Valentine invited young lovers to come to him to be joined secretly in marriage. Claudius imprisoned Valentine who refused to renounce the sacrament of matrimony and was subsequently beheaded. History claims that while Valentine was imprisoned he fell in love with the blind daughter of his jailer, Asterius. Valentine’s love restored her sight and his last message to her was signed: “From Your Valentine”. A phrase that would live longer than Valentine apparently did.

APS TITLE I DISTRICT WIDE PARENT WORKSHOP
APS Parent/Community Involvement Liaisons
Present "Parents, Get Ready for Testing"

Who should attend: Parents, Home-School Liaisons, School Administrators & Community Partners

Why should I attend: Dates and Explanation of Tests; Test Taking Tips; Strategies for Improving Scores in Reading/Language Arts, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies; also, a Great Give-Away!

When: Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Time: 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Where: D. M. Therrell High School
3099 Panther Trail, S.W.
Atlanta , GA 30311
404 802-5345

Goodies for me: A delicious boxed lunch will be provided for all participants. Prizes, Prizes, Prizes!

2009 Taste Of Inman - Thursday evening (Invite your friends and neighbors)

The 2009 “Taste of Inman" will be held this Thursday, February 5th, 6:00PM-8:30PM in the Inman Gymnasium. Twenty of our best neighborhood restaurants - including Fox Brothers BBQ, Matty Cakes, Six Feet Under, Murphy’s, Atkins Park, Babette's, Doc Chey’s, Cupcake Factory, Metro Fresh, Food 101, San Fran Coffee, American Roadhouse, Osteria 832, Stella, Noche, Taco Mac, Pura Vida, Pomodoro and Zaya - will be participating in this amazing community event. The Scholastic Book Fairwill be open as well for your browsing pleasure, and the Inman Jazz Eagles will be performing for your listening pleasure. Advance tickets are on sale at the Inman School Store for $5 children/$15 Adults. Tickets will also be sold the night of the event - $10 children/$20 Adults. If you would still like to Volunteer, please contact Hollis Wise via email, Hollis Wise for an assignment.

Congratulations to Ms. Schlegel and Ms. Wilson!
Two Inman 7th Grade teachers are the winners of the 2009 Atlanta Families' Awards for Excellence in Education (AFAEE). Ms. Kelly Schlegel; 7th grade Science, and Ms. Tracy Wilson; 7th grade Math, were chosen from a pool of 75 applicants across the Atlanta Public School System. Recipients were chosen based on quantitative evidence of student achievement, qualitative evidence of increased student self-esteem and strong evidence of collaboration with key stakeholders. Congratulations to these outstanding educators!

Atlanta Council Of PTAs
HOLIDAY SHARING
Thursday, December 18, 2008 at 7:00pm
Kennedy Middle School (225 James P. Brawley Drive)

featuring APS Superintendent, Dr. Beverly Hall It is a night of celebration for all PTAs, Principals and APS parents. Enjoy musical entertainment from the Brown and Kennedy Middle School Jazz Bands and over 10 tables of holiday food!

A few reminders for the upcoming holiday season:

Student Government Candy Grams Sales on Sale
The Student Government Association will be selling "Candy Grams" before and after school for $1.00 each. Students can buy a candy cane with a personal message to be delivered to the classmates, friends, and teachers of their choice. Don't miss out - Candy Grams will only be on sale until Tuesday, December 16th!

Inman Christmas Trees - We Need Ornaments
Each year, Barefoot Mountain Farms provides Christmas trees to Inman which are decorated inside the school building. This year, these trees will be donated to two needy families in the area. In an effort to provide decorated trees which are representative of the diversity of Inman students, we are asking that each Inman family donate an ornament or two for the Christmas trees.

Simply have your child bring in an ornament that is representative of your family (It represent Kwanzaa, Christmas, or Hanukah) and have them place it on the tree in the Library or in the Lobby. Please have them bring the ornaments in by Monday, December 15th.

Thanks for your help in brightening someone's holiday.

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Trees!
In the continuing Inman tradition, the Annual Christmas Tree Fundraiser begins Tues Nov. 25th and will run through the day after Christmas or whenever the trees run out. The hours are 9AM-9PM daily. Be sure to purchase your Christmas Trees, wreaths, and garland in support of our PTA fundraising efforts and tell your friends and family about it as well!! Owners Hal and Tina Hollcroft have a long history with Inman Middle School and the Virginia-Highland community. Their farm is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and in the middle of Christmas Tree Country where they specialize in Fraser fir trees, wreaths and garlands. Get ready to stop by soon and take home freshly harvested Fraser fir to decorate your home for the holidays!

Jackie Sears
jdsears@bellsouth.net

Jacinda Clark
jclark@clarkassociatesinc.com

Inman Yearbooks Make Great Holiday Gifts!
Inman Yearbooks are now on sale for the pre-sale price of $25 at the School Store. This price will be valid through January 2009. The Yearbook Committee accepts cash and money order payments only. Money orders should be made out to Inman Middle School. If you have questions about yearbook purchases, please contact Christy Williams at chawilliams@atlanta.k12.ga.us.

Yearbook Ads and Congratulatory Notices are also on sale. Please contact Ms. Farley Burks for details on how to purchase at fburks@atlanta.k12.ga.us.

Are your Recycling Bins Overflowing Due to Holiday Consumption?
We are very excited to announce that Inman now has an aluminum can and plastic bottle recycling program sponsored through APS! There is a cage trailer in which these recyclables should be placed on the Inman campus upper parking lot. The program accepts aluminum cans and plastic bottles (marked with P.E.T. #1. ONLY please.) Plastic items such as milk jugs and detergent bottles are not accepted. We have also been asked not to place any plastic bags or glass in the container. APS is also sponsoring a recycling "Challenge" – more details soon! Families can bring recyclable items from home to help fill the bin!

Get a Fresh Start for the New Year!
Just a reminder to have your 7th grader clean out backpacks, and notebooks and check school supplies over the Winter Break. This is a good opportunity to get a fresh start for the second semester. Also, please plan to send extra classroom supplies in with your child in January. Teachers are in need of everything from tissues to dry erase markers and as always printer PAPER!

Students should also continue reading age-appropriate novels over the break to meet their reading goals for the school year!

Have a happy and safe holiday season!

Gingerbread 101

The tradition of making treats with the pungent spice, ginger, dates back through many centuries and across several continents. Ginger was a plant native to China and India where much of the world’s supply is still grown. The ancient Romans used ginger as a remedy for the plague. During the thirteenth century, the English made medicinal ginger candies called ”gingerbrati.” During the following century, gingerbrati changed to gingerbread as breadcrumbs were added to the candy mixture. It was the fourteenth century Germans who really began to take gingerbread seriously. They formed guilds of gingerbread artisans, distinct from existing baking guilds. Although Queen Elizabeth is credited with first presenting gingerbread likenesses to her guests, the notion of edible figures is considered to have originated as substitutes for live sacrifices. Throughout the nineteenth century, finely crafted ginger-bread was used to express greetings, recognition, affection and celebration. The heart-shaped gingerbread Valentine was especially popular. In English villages, maidens would eat a gingerbread “husband” on Halloween to ensure that they would find a real mate. In the United States gingerbread has been popular since colonial days. George Washington’s mother was famous for her spicy gingerbread. Ginger was also included in the rations of Revolutionary soldiers, both for its medicinal value and to add flavor to their bland meals. Several children’s books have been written which carry out the gingerbread theme: The Gingerbread Boy, and the Brothers’ Grimm Hansel & Gretel are good examples. A tradition as long-standing as the baking of gingerbread yields great rewards: filling your home with a wonderful aroma; satisfying appetites; and, passing time with utter delight.

Gingerbread Dough
½ cup butter or margarine
½ cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 egg
½ cup molasses
2 Tablespoons lemon juice
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup wheat flour
1 ½ teaspoon ground ginger
1 ½ teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt

Beat sugar, shortening and butter together until creamy. Add egg, molasses, and lemon juice; beat well. Combine dry ingredients and gradually add to butter mixture; beat well. Divide into to portions, wrap in plastic and chill three hours.

Preheat oven to 375o. Roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Place pattern for house and cut with a sharp knife or use cookie cutters. Place on greased cookie sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Assemble house or decorate cookies with Royal icing.

Gingerbread House Construction & Decorating Ideas:
Upside down ice cream cone covered in green frosting and decorated makes a great Christmas tree; use “Golden Graham” cereal for shutters, green lifesavers or green “Fruit Loops” for wreaths; red licorice for bows, roping, outlining windows and doors; brown, black and white “Neco” wafers for stone walls and lighter colored wafers for roof shingles, flecked jelly beans make good rocks; coconut flakes make great snow for landscaping and cinnamon sticks cut in half make a great log pile. Let your imagination run wild!! (Cheater’s version: Use Royal icing to “glue” together a graham cracker house and decorate.)

Let's fight the flu together!

Get Your Flu Shot At Inman. Influenza vaccinations will be available at Inman on Tuesday, November 18, 2008, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. The cost of the vaccinations will be $30.00 per person, and a donation (excluding nasal spray vaccinations) will be made to our PTA based on the level of participation in this program. The easiest way to register is by going online to: pta.flubusters.net or use the forms attached and return to your child's home room teacher by TOMORROW - Friday, November 14th.

The Clinic is open until 6:00pm so siblings, parents, and other members of the community can participate. Forms were given out in Homerooms on Monday, November 10, 2008. Please return the lower portion of the attached sheet to let us know if you'll be attending the school clinic this year and how you have registered. If you register, vaccine will be reserved for you at our clinic. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that ALL children should get influenza vaccine. This includes both healthy and those with high risk conditions, 6 months through 18 years old. They recommend that all adults who have contact with children should also get vaccinated.

If you have questions, please contact the Inman school nurse, Ms. Bethye Hill, at (404) 802-3200.

Dear 7th grade parents:

Your student will be receiving two copies of their Mid-Quarter 2 Progress Reports. Each copy is 2 pages. On the Progress Report, you are looking at the numbers to the far right, under "T2". These are the Term 2 Mid-Quarter grades. "T1" shows the grades they received at the end of the Quarter 1.

Please sign one copy of the Progress Report and return it to school with your student. The other copy is for your records. We need these signed copies returned immediately. Your student will not be permitted to go to the Friday afternoon pep rally during 7th period if they do not have a signed copy of their Progress Report returned.

We hope this provides some clarification when reading the reports! Thanks for your support.

Jessica Hughes
7th grade Life Science Instructor

Don't miss out on your opportunity to participate in the Duke TIP program.

New Online Deadline:
Online applications must be fully completed by December 3, 2008. New Mail-In Deadline: Paper applications must be postmarked by November 17, 2008. If you have questions about financial assistance, please e-mail Ms. Boatright (eboatright@atlanta.k12.ga.us)
immediately.

For those parents who did not receive information about Duke TIP, your child can participate under the TIP Option. TIP Option candidates complete an application (download at http://www.tip.duke.edu/talent_searches/grade_7/tip_option.html), register to take either the SAT or ACT independently, and mail your scores directly to Duke. TIP Option participants receive the same benefits (listed below) as Talent Search participants with the exception of eligibility for ceremony activities:•Certificate of Achievement for participation • Access to the current edition of the Educational Opportunity Guide Online • A subscription to the twice-yearly Insights newsletter • The Educational Resource Handbook • Talent Search Results Summary (statistical information on 7th graders'testing results) • Other information about Duke TIP educational options (these include some great weekend programs at UGA, Appalachian State University, and the University of South Carolina... just to name a few). Want more information? Visit http://www.tip.duke.edu/ or contact Emily Boatright at eboatright@atlanta.k12.ga.us.

Important Message From Dr. Bockman:

Dear Inman Parents,

Unfortunately we have had an unusually large number of checks from parents returned this year. Already we have had more returned in the first 8 weeks of school than all of last year. This has created a number of problems. Effective immediately, Inman will no longer be able to accept checks for field trips, the after school program, and other activities or materials. I know that checks are more convenient but all these bounced checks are consuming time and expenses we can't spare.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Betsy Bockman, Ph.D.
Principal, Inman Middle School

.
A few reminders:

If you have not signed and returned your student's Progress Report, please do so as soon as possible.

Inman Back-to-School Dance
The Inman PTA is sponsoring the first dance of the school year THIS Friday, September 19th from 7:00-9:00pm. All Inman students are welcome. The cost will be $5 or $3 with a perfect attendance coupon. A permission form will be sent home with students. Permission forms are required to enter the dance. A song request box has been placed in the school lobby (near the School Store) for students to make requests. There will be a dance-off and a raffle for great prizes. Refreshments will be provided for an additional cost: pizza slice ($1), drinks ($1), and candy (50 cents).

Parent volunteers are still needed! If you can help with set-up or chaperon, please contact Warren Bruno at wbruno@bellsouth.net.

Final Turn-in Day for the Magazine Sale!
This Friday, September 19th is the last turn-in for magazine orders. Let's make it the biggest one yet! Exciting prizes will be given for weekly orders and cumulative orders. Two popular awards include: VIP ticket to the main event (including a rockin' DJ, a Bungee Run, Pizza & Soda) scheduled for Thursday, October 4th (12 cumulative orders) and the Hummer Limo Lunch scheduled for Friday, October 5th (20 cumulative orders). We are keeping the fun in FUNdraising and look forward to a successful finish. It's our last chance to earn big bucks for our wonderful school. Thanks for all your efforts and support – Inman rocks!

YEA! Inman’s Award winning Debate Team returns!
Ms. Looman and Ms. Lefont have announced that they will be sponsoring the Debate Team at Inman this year. Please stay tuned for more information coming soon!

Inman Middle School presents the Inman GEMS:
GEMS is a new science club just for girls - Girls Excelling in Math & Science. Girls making a difference and changing the world using their skills in science, technology, engineering and math. It is a weekly after-school club on that will meet on Tuesdays from 4pm-5:30pm in Ms. Schlegel's room.

The club will have weekly hands-on activities and experiments that will encourage girls to learn more about exciting and emerging careers in science, math, technology, and engineering. In addition to these activities, the girls will use brand new MAC computers to create podcasts of the weekly meetings to post on the club website. We will be planning several field trips to locations such as a Georgia Tech laboratory, the CDC, a manufacturing plant and the Georgia Nature Center. Female speakers will come to encourage the girls and share their work experience in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. At the end of the year, we will assist the girls in finding summer camps to continue to fuel their excitement. The club is organized as part of the Girls Scouts Council of Northwest Georgia, Inc. This partnership provides insurance for the club and access to great leadership training materials. We will be working with the girls to build leadership skills and self-esteem! College students from Georgia Tech will assist at the club meetings and speak about their career paths!

Who: Parents & their daughters

What: Receive information about the after school club and register! Student registration includes completing a form and a $10 registration fee. The fee goes directly to the Girl Scout Council (this covers insurance and some small expenses). Also, parents you can register as a volunteer!

How: To register your daughter to become part of the Inman GEMS, please attend the Parent/Daughter Info Session, if you are unable to attend please contact kelseaadams@gmail.com or kschlegel@atlanta.k12.ga.us

When: Tuesday, September 16th at 4pm and another one starting at 6pm (these session will be the same so you should only attend one of them).

Where: Inman Middle School in Ms. Schlegel's classroom.

Four All Who Reed and Right

We'll begin with a box, and the plural is boxes; but the plural of ox became oxen not oxes.
One fowl is a goose, but two are called geese, yet the plural of moose should never be meese.

You may find a lone mouse or a nest full of mice; yet the plural of house is houses, not hice.
If the plural of man is always called men, why shouldn't the plural of pan be called pen?

If I spoke of my foot and show you my feet, and I give you a boot, would a pair be called beet?
If one is a tooth and a whole set are teeth, why shouldn't the plural of booth be called beeth?

Then one may be that, and three would be those, yet hat in the plural would never be hose, and the plural of catis cats, not cose.

We speak of a brother and also of brethren, but though we say mother, we never say methren.
Then the masculine pronouns are he, his and him, but imagine the feminine, she, shis and shim.

Let's face it,English is a crazy language.

There is no egg in eggplant, nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor pine in pineapple. English muffins weren't invented in England.

We take English for granted. But if we explore its paradoxes,we find that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea, nor is it a pig.

And why is it that writers write but fingers don't fing, grocers don't groce and hammers don't ham?

Doesn't it seem crazy that you can make amends, but not one amend?
If you have a bunch of odds and ends and get rid of all but one of them,what do you call it?

If teachers taught, why didn't preachers praught?
If a vegetarian eats vegetables,what does a humanitarian eat?

Sometimes, I think all the folks who grew up speaking English should be committed to an asylum for the verbally insane. In what other language do people recite at a play and play at a recital?

Ship by truck and send cargo by ship?
Have noses that run and feet that smell?

How can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same, while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites?

You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language in which your house can burn up as it burns down; in which you fill in a form by filling it out and in which an alarm goes off by going on.

~Author Unknown~

JEKYLL ISLAND TRIP

The bus will depart Inman at 6:00am on Monday, September 8th. Please make arrangements to drop your student off in the morning.

The bus will return Inman at 6:00pm on Wednesday, September 10th. Please make arrangements to pick-up your student in the afternoon atthe Clemont street entrance.

If you have an emergency and need to get in touch with school personnel, the Jekyll Island office number is 912-635-4115 (or 4117).Or you may contact the Georgia State Patrol to deliver a message at912-635-2303 for after-hours emergencies.

Packing List:
• Raincoat and/or rain gear (an inexpensive poncho is better than nothing at all)
• Sweater/sweatshirt
• Jacket (including gloves, scarf, warm hat, etc. if cold)
• Combination of long sleeve/short sleeve t-shirts (at least 1 per day)
• Combination of long pants/shorts (at least 1 per day)
• Socks (3-5 pairs)
• Closed toe shoes (at least 2 pair of sneakers - one to get wet, one to stay dry)
• Sandals with a heel-strap (no flip flops)
• Hat/cap/visor
• Pajamas
• Sleeping bag (or twin size bedding)
• Pillow
• Plastic bag for dirty clothes
• Bath and/or beach towels and washcloths
• Toiletries (soap, toothbrush, shampoo, deodorant, etc.)
• Roll-on or lotion insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• Re-fillable Water bottle

Optional Items:
Day pack or backpack
Camera and/or film
Binoculars
Sunglasses
Rubber boots for marsh trip
Money for canteen (~$20 in small bills)
Pencil and paper

PLEASE NOT SEND:
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
CANDY, GUM, SNACKS
KNIVES
FISHING EQUIPMENT
FIREWORKS
EXPENSIVE ITEMS
SHAVING CREAM, SILLY STRING, ETC.
FLASHLIGHTS

Parents Please Note:
• If your child is on any medication, please send the medicine along with written permission and instructions for school personnel to dispense.
• Jekyll Island 4-H Center does not provide linens, pillows, blankets, or towels.
• Please limit luggage to one suitcase or duffel bag plus sleeping bag or bed roll. No trunks!
• Avoid sending unnecessary items.
• Mark all items.
• Only old clothes are needed; new clothes may be ruined by heavy outdoor use.
• No flip-flops are allowed outside of dorm rooms (showering purposes only).
• Jekyll 4-H and Inman Middle School is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

IMPORTANT: A Parent Informational Meeting for the 7th grade trip to Jekyll Island will be held THIS Thursday, August 14th at 5:30 p.m. in the School Cafeteria. The flyer that was sent home with the August 18th date was incorrect. Additionally, the deadline for the Jekyll Island permission slip and deposit was also incorrectly stated. The deadline for the permission slips is next Monday, August 18th. A limited number of scholarships are available based on financial need. Please contact your child's Science teacher for more information regarding scholarships. The Jekyll Isalnd trip is scheduled for Monday, September 8th through Wednesday, September 10th.

Deadline for September issue of the Inman INSIGHT:
The deadline for the next issue of the Insight is Monday, August 18th at midnight. Please submit all articles to Anne Farrisee at plumbob@mindspring.com by the deadline date and time. If you have questions regarding the Inman Insight, please contact our new Insight Managing Editor, Melissa Aberle-Grasse at melissa.grasse@gmail.com.

First PTA Meeting – Thursday Sept 4th, 6:30PM
Mark your calendars for the first PTA Meeting of the 2008-09 School Year to be held on Thursday, September 4th at 6:30pm in the Inman Gym. Come out and see old friends and meet new ones! The PTA meeting will be followed by the 7th and 8th Grade Open House.

Hi All:

We hope you are having a fabulous summer break! Just a few reminders as we get closer to the beginning of a new school year:

Meet & Greet and APS Technology Presentations:
Please make plans to attend Inman's Meet & Greet on Friday, August 8th, 1:30-3:30 p.m. where you can see your friends and meet the faculty for the start of another great year at Inman. This year there will be a presentation by the APS Technology Department on the new Student Information System which is parent accessible and user-friendly.

6th grade parents session from 1:45 - 2:30pm,
7th and 8th grade session from 2:45 - 3:30pm.

There will be plenty of time for parents to go to classrooms as well as attend these sessions. We are very excited about the new Student Information System and we are sure you will be too. Mark your calendars and be sure to get your first look at Inman so you can pick up the school supply lists for each grade – better yet, get it over with at the school store's one-stop shopping! There will also be lots of information about the PTA, bus schedules, sports and the after-school program. We will make every attempt to have the homeroom teacher assignments posted on the front doors prior to and during the Meet and Greet.

2008 Sales Tax Holiday
Just a reminder that the Georgia Sales Tax Holiday will be from Thursday, July 31st to Sunday, August 3rd. For more information on what items are tax-exempt, please visit: http://www.etax.dor.ga.gov/. Back-to-School packs with all school supplies will be available fro purchase from the Inman School Store at Meet & Greet on Friday, August 8th from 1:30-3:30pm. However, if you are interested in buying your items separately, below is the supply list:

7th Grade Supply List:
1 - Inman agenda
1 - USB drive (128 MB)
4 - 1" three ring binders
4 - sets of divider tabs
2 - packs of loose leaf paper
4 - composition books1 - pencil pouch
1 - pack of colored pencils
1 - ruler
1 - compass
1 - protractor
1 - calculator (Texas Instruments 30X IIS or similar)
1 - pack of #2 pencils
1 - pack of black pens
2 - stretchable book cover
1 - pack of clear sheet protectors
1 - ream of white printer paper (to keep in your locker)

The following supplies are to be given to your homeroom teacher:
1 - box of Kleenex
1 - ream of white printer paper
1 - roll of paper towels
1 - bottle of hand sanitizer
$4 - contribution to classroom printer cartridge replacement

Please come prepared with all of your supplies on the 1st day of school.

Save Your Subscriptions
Remember to save your magazine subscriptions for Inman's annual Magazine Sale which begins Friday, August 29th. Your family will have the opportunity to support Inman Middle School PTA by purchasing one of over 750 magazines available through the American Publishers Hearst reading program. You can buy a new magazine subscription or renew an existing one. You may also make a direct donation to the PTA if you prefer. If you have any questions about this fundraiser or would like to volunteer, please contact Kim DiFrancesco at kimberley.difrancesco@gmail.com.

If you have not already done so, I highly recommend subscribing to the general Inman email list, by visiting http://www.inmanmiddleschool.org/mail_form.html.

See you Monday, August 11th at 8:45am for the First Day of School!

Well, we made it through 6th grade! Congratulations on surviving the first year of Middle School. It was a blur of lost agendas, dirty gym clothes, and bruised egos - yet we are still here!

Just a few items:

Last Day for Re-registration
If you missed the registration days in May, you have one last opportunity to re-register for next year on Monday, June 2nd. Re-registration is critical to ensure the appropriate number of teachers are in place for next year. All returning students must be re-registered.

Required documents for Re-registration:
A. Reside within Inman district and parent/guardian is holder of deed/lease.
1. Deed/Mortgage Statement or Lease if renting. Address of residence must be on deed/statement or lease.
2. Original Georgia Power bill (within 30 days)
3. Voided check w/ address or a Current Driver's License with address

Inman Oasis Drink Booth at Summerfest
Come start your summer fun at the annual Virginia-Highland's Summerfest! The festival has been expanded to three full days this year – June 6th-8th. The Virginia-Highlands Civic Association is a wonderful Inman supporter and hosts one of the city's best neighborhood festivals! We sell bottled water, sodas and sports drinks to very thirsty festival goers. This is a fun and important fundraiser for Inman We still have a few shifts to fill with volunteers! Thanks to everyone who has volunteered already! Please contact me at 404.874.3159 or email inmanmom@yahoo.com if you can work a shift. And, don't forget to come see all your Inman friends and buy your cool drinks during Summerfest at the Inman Drink Oasis!

Summer Reading!!
It is important for students to continue their independent reading over the summer. Try getting involved in choosing their next novel. For example, if your student is leaning towards choosing a book from the Goosebumps series... try steering them towards a classic like Flowers For Algernon by Dani Keyes instead. Perhaps you can read it together or listen to an audio book during o long car drive. The following is a list of recommended books that should both excite and challenge students:

The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan
Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt
Woodsong by Gary Paulsen
The View From Saturday by E.L. Konigsburg
Beyond the Chocolate War by Robert Cormier
A Separate Peace by John Knowles
Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech
The Higher Power of Lucky by Susan Patron
Let the Circle Be Unbroken by Mildred Taylor
Rascal by Sterling North
Redwall by Brian Jacques and Gary Chalk
The Yearling by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings
The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper
Watership Down by Richard Adams
A Year Down Yonder by Richard Peck
Bull Run by Paul Fleischman
The Miracle Worker by William Gibson

From: Kathy Cox
Sent: 05/21/2008 02:57 PM
To: Superintendents
Subject: Update on Grade 6 & 7 Social Studies CRCT

Dear Superintendents,

Over the past several days the Georgia Department of Education has been closely monitoring initial results of the Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests (CRCT) as they are being processed. The area that has raised great concern is the results for social studies in grades six and seven. Simply, the performance appears to be implausibly low, which raised serious questions.

After intense scrutiny of the standards and the assessment, we have come to the conclusion that these scores are not trustworthy measures of student achievement in social studies. Accordingly, the results will be invalidated. It is important to note that we found nothing technically incorrect with the scoring of these assessments. This decision is based primarily on the conviction that we need to revise the curriculum and the assessments to better evaluate the knowledge and skills that represent student achievement in social studies.

In the coming days, school systems will receive a letter from the Georgia Department of Education that addresses this action. This letter may be used as documentation in student records that the affected scores are nullified.

Additionally, we will empanel a group of teachers and curriculum leaders to revise the social studies curriculum in grades 6 & 7 and help us begin the process of developing new assessments for these grades.

This action does not affect any other areas of the curriculum or their corresponding assessments.
Sincerely,

Kathy Cox
State Superintendent of Schools
Georgia Department of Education
2066 Twin Towers East
Atlanta, Georgia 30334
(404) 656-2598
kathycox@doe.k12.ga.us

There will be a Honors Assembly for 6th grade on Friday, May 23rd at 12:30pm in the Inman Auditorium. Awards will be given for Honor Roll, Principal's List and Perfect Attendance. Please come and cheer on our 6th graders for their academic achievements!

The 6th Grade Day at Piedmont Park was a great success!! The kids had a fabulous day with picnic lunches, free time, games and lots of snacks! Thank you to the teachers for allowing the kids to enjoy this experience and for their patience. Thanks to all the parents that were able to attend and to all who sent in snacks and treats! It was a day the kids will be talking about for a long time.

One more week.....

6th Grade "Day at Piedmont Park"

The 6th Grade will be headed to Piedmont Park on Friday, May 16th for their year-end celebration. The students will be at the park from 11:00am to 3:30pm.

• If your child is bringing their lunch, please put it in a disposable paper sac or plastic bag with their name on it. We don't want the kids to have to worry about remembering their lunch boxes.
• Parents are NOT allowed to bring lunch to the park or pick up children from the park. There will be snacks available for the students as well.
• The teachers are planning to take sports equipment from Inman, so please ask your child to leave their sports gear at home on that day. We will need about 10 parents who can help out with games, scavenger hunts, serving lunch, etc.
• If you can volunteer even for a short period of time, please meet the group at the Active Oval and the pavilion closest to the oval (near the pool and tennis courts.) Come in the Park Drive entrance, park in that lot, and walk to the large pavilion closest to the new "Active Oval."If you volunteered to send snacks, please send them with your 6th grader on Friday morning.

APS will be having a "Middle Grades Accelerated Mathematics" Meeting THIS coming Tuesday, May 6th from 4:30 pm until 6:30 pm. The meeting will be held at the Dean Rusk Building at 433 Peeples Street, Atlanta 30315 in Room 113. APS would like to encourage any interested Inman parent to attend.

Yearbooks are here!!!
Please collect your book if you pre-ordered (bring your receipt) today or Thursday at the latest. Books are also available for sale for $30 cash or check (made out to Inman Middle School.) Last year the books ran out very quickly so do not delay!

Chamber Theatre Productions Field Trip THIS Friday, May 2nd
6th graders are going to see the Chamber Theatre productions at the Atlanta Symphony Hall on Friday, May 2nd. Most students have returned permission slips and paid for the field trip, if you have not sent in a donation for bus expenses, please send in $3.50 with your child tomorrow if possible. Thanks.

Slate of Nominations for PTA Officers and Committee/Project Chairs
The Nominations Committee, comprised of Marie Killory, Mellie DeRouen, and Jacinda Clark, have worked diligently over the past two months to recruit people to serve in PTA leadership for the 2008-09 school year. They have heard from many people in our school community and they have sought input from the general membership, the teachers, the administration, and the current PTA leadership. Below is the slate of nominees submitted by the committee.

The PTA membership will vote on the slate of nominees at the Thursday, May 8th PTA meeting, which will be held at 6:30 pm at the school in conjunction with the Spring Concert. Nominations from the floor will also be accepted at that time.

Executive Officers:
President:Christine Pickney
VP Communications: Denise Romeo
VP Education: Leah McLeod
VP Fundraising: _____________
VP Parent Involvement: Abby Martin
VP Special Events: Warren Bruno/Paul Kinnane
VP Advocacy: Pam Revie Pettersen
Secretary: Vaughn Maxson
Treasurer: Sunny Turner

Committee Chairs and Program Leaders
Administrative Committees:
Recycling: Karen Taber
Child Care: Rhonda Cobb
Hospitality: Jackie Sears
VHCA Dinner: Mellie De Rouen/ Marie Killory/ Jackie Sears
CINS: Jennifer Roorbach

Advocacy Committees:
School Council Liaison:__________________
Local Advocacy: Janet Kishbaugh
State/Fed Advocacy: _____________

Communications Committees:
Back to School: Jacinda Clark
Directory: Beth Marks
Electronic Update: Karin Dusenbury
Inman Insight Editor: _____________
Art Director: Sarah Tomaka
Copy Editor: Anne Farrisee
Distribution: Mellie DeRouen
Printing: Michael DeGive
PTA Calendar: Amy McNeil
Website: __________
Inman Brag Sheet: Cynthia Abbott Thomasson

Education Committees:
Cultural Arts: Lynne Goldsman
Saturday School: ____________
Writer's Workshop: Sherri Caldwell/Jennifer French
Curriculum Liasons:
High Achievers: Alka Citron
PEC: Mary McLaughlin
8th grade: _________
7th grade: Kim DeFrancesco
6th grade: Cindy Hulbert
Reading Support: __________
Soaring Eagle: ___________
Grants:
Teacher: Karin Dusenbury
Club Support/Grants: Marie Killory
Scholarships: _________
Health and Safety: __________
Teacher Appreciation: Dorothy Crowley

Fundraising Committees:
Book Fair: Karen Carroll/ Sherri Caldwell
Christmas Tree Sales: Jacinda Clark/ Jackie Sears
Corporate Partnerships:
Kroger: _________
Publix: _________
Whole Foods: _________
Magazine Sales: _______________________
School Store: Susan Miller; Purchasing: Jane Prendergast
SummerFest: Eric Dusenbury
Grant Writing: __________

Parent Involvement Committees:
8th Gr Liason: Stacy Williams
7th Gr Liason: Denise Romeo
6th Gr Liason: Renee Veira
Principal's Coffee: Karen Taber
Transition In: Carolyn Kasper
Transition Out: Michelle Rapoport
Volunteer Database: Lila Bradley
Membership: Lila Bradley

Special Events Committees:
BBQ Blues Bash: __________
Evening at Inman: __________
Dances: _________

Title l District-wide Parent Workshop(s):

It is the goal of APS to give parents the information and tools that they need to promote their children's academic achievement and to act as full participating partners, contributing to the success of Atlanta Public Schools. In conjunction with our goal, we have planned parent activities for the week of April 28, 2008. The activities will include:

• A district-wide parent workshop on Wednesday, April 30, 2008, at Dean Rusk, 433 Peeples Street, S.W., Atlanta, GA 30310 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The theme for this workshop is "Giving Parents a Voice." We will also recognize parents for excellence in parenting. Lunch will be served.
  
  
• A Discipline Conference on Friday, May 2, 2008, at Atlanta Metropolitan College from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This conference is sponsored by The Atlanta Council of PTA's, Atlanta Public Schools, Communities in Schools and Atlanta Metropolitan College.

Chamber Theatre Productions Field Trip – Donations Requested!
As most of you know, the 6th graders are taking a field trip to see the Chamber Theatre productions at the Atlanta Symphony Hall on Friday, May 2nd. Most students have returned permission slips and paid for the field trip, and we thank you for that. In the past, APS transportation has been free of charge. With rising fuel prices, APS is requiring us to pay for bus service to and from the production. This is a cost not figured into the original $17.00 fee for the trip. We are asking for donations to help offset the cost of the buses. It works out to be $3.50 per student. We realize it has already been a large expense to parents for students to have the opportunity to take this field trip. We feel like it will be a wonderful learning experience for all involved, and can not wait for the opportunity. We appreciate your help and patience as we work through this unexpected expense. If you have questions or would like to make a donation, please contact Tommy Firesheets at tfiresheets@atlanta.k12.ga.us for more information.

May PTA General Meeting Rescheduled for Thursday, May 8th
The May PTA General meeting originally scheduled for Thursday, May 1st has been rescheduled to Thursday, May 8th. At this meeting, the Nominating Committee will present the 2008-09 slate of PTA Officers for election. The meeting will be followed by the Spring Concert. Please plan to attend this meeting and stay for a memorable musical performance!

Do You Fit the Bill - Or Know Someone Who Does?
In an effort to enhance the upcoming curriculum clusters (the plan for post CRCT instruction), the 6th grade teachers are seeking community persons to come in and talk to the kids about their jobs, simply an overview of what their jobs entail and how they achieved their goals. Specifically, we are searching for:

An actress or actor, someone from the Lion King's cast
A scientist
A political cartoonist or any cartoonist
An athlete or sporting figure
A mathematician
A marine biologist, maybe someone from the aquarium
A travel agent

If you have any connections that may be of help, please contact Kim Di Francesco at kimberley.difrancesco@gmail.com or 404-872-2212. The time commitment is one hour or less (9-10am or 2:30-3:30pm) and the day is flexible.

INMAN RE-REGISTRATION PROCEDURES:
Inman will be re-registering all rising 7th and 8th grade students for the 2008-09 school year. This process is necessary in order to update all student records and accurately plan for the upcoming school year. It is critically important to ensure the appropriate number of teachers needed for next year. All returning students MUST be re-registered. Please read the following carefully, begin collecting the necessary documents, and bring all to Inman on the designated days:

Required documents for Re-registration:
A. Reside within Inman district and parent/guardian is holder of deed/lease.
1. Deed/Mortgage Statement or Lease if renting. Address of residence must be on
deed/statement or lease.
2. Original Georgia Power bill (within 30 days)
3. Voided check w/ address or a Current Driver's License with address

Re-Registration dates:
May 13th 8:00-3:00
May 14th 9:00-5:30
May 15th 8:30-3:00

Re-registration using a notarized legal affidavit: (See dates below)
B. If the parent and child live with someone else within the Inman school zone, the holder of the deed or lease must present the following items on August 5th or 6th only. Both the lease/deed holder AND the parent MUST be present at registration.

Items needed are:
1. Notarized affidavit on each child
2. Deed/mortgage statement or lease. Address must be on statement/deed or lease
3. Original Georgia Power bill
4. Parent must have voided check w/ address or a Current Driver's License with
address

Registration dates:
August 5th 8:30-3:00
August 6th 8:30-3:00

Having all these items in hand will expedite the process and enable us to schedule your child for the 08-09 school year. We will make copies of materials you provide. Your child will not be registered and placed in classes until this process is complete. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you are not planning to return to Inman, please notify Ms. Walz, so that we do not schedule your child, skwalz@atlanta.k12.ga.us or (404) 802-3216.

6th Grade "Day at the Park"
The 6th Grade is planning a "Day at the Park" on Friday, May 16th. We are all set with the City of Atlanta and the Piedmont Park Conservancy. Now, all we need now are parent volunteers to help supervise the day and FOOD! If any parent has contacts with a restaurant and can get food donated (sandwiches, chips, pizza, etc) that would be PERFECT. We need volunteers to provide lunch and drinks for the event. We will also need about 10 parents who can come for the day and help out with games, scavenger hunts, serving lunch, etc. If you can donate lunch items, drinks or your time for the day, please contact Denise Romeo at inman6thgrade@gmail.com. Thanks in advance for your generosity!

Information on the upcoming CRCT Week. Testing will actually begin on Tuesday, April 22nd.

The following will be the schedule for the CRCT testing period:
Tuesday, April, 22nd - Reading
Wednesday, April 23rd – Language Arts
Thursday, April 24th - Math
Friday, April, 25th - Science
Monday, April 28th - Social Studies

We will do make-ups each afternoon beginning on Wednesday, April 23rd. All make-ups completed by Thursday, May 1. PLEASE make sure that all doctor, dental, vacations and personal appointments are not scheduled any of these test mornings before 12:00am. Thank you very much for your attention to this matter. Please try to ensure that sure that students get plenty of sleep and have a good breakfast before beginning their day(s). Consider packing a healthy snack for breaks. We want the nation to see how brilliant Inman students are! And, again please make sure your student has an ample supply of No.2 pencils for the week!

Message from Dr. Bockman:
Do you want to have a voice in your child's school? Returning the APS survey to your child's homeroom teacher is one way to voice your thoughts/opinions. Please return the survey to your child's homeroom teacher by no later than this Friday, April 4.

Spring Band and Chorus Concert – Thursday, April 3rd
Please plan to attend the PTA meeting this Thursday evening, followed by the Inman Spring Band and Chorus Concert in the Inman Gym. The meeting will begin at 6:30pm and will be followed by the Concert.

Deadline for May issue of the Inman INSIGHT:
The deadline for the last issue of the Insight for the school year is Monday, April 14 at midnight. Please submit all articles to Anne Farrisee at plumbob@mindspring.com by the deadline date and time. If you have questions regarding the Inman Insight, please contact Insight Managing Editor, Cheryl Jones, at cgsjones@msn.com.

Junior Beta Club Application Extension:
The National Junior Beta Club is an organization dedicated to 'leading by serving others.' Our Inman chapter is currently accepting applications for ALL STUDENTS until Friday, April 18th (extension from Wednesday, April 2nd). There will also be a parent informational meeting in the media center on Wednesday, April 16th to learn more about this exciting opportunity for your students to build leadership skills, perform community service, and make lasting friendships. Applications are available in Ms. de la Rosa's room (3025). Thank you!

CRCT (Criterion Reference and Competency Test) Testing
Testing will take place the week of April 22nd through April 27th. Students on all grade levels take this state-wide test. Please try not to schedule doctor's appointments on these days, and be sure that students get plenty of sleep and have a good breakfast before beginning their day. Consider packing a healthy snack for breaks. We want the nation to see how brilliant Inman students are! PLEASE make sure your student has an ample supply of No.2 pencils for the week!

Chamber Theatre Productions Field Trip – Donations Requested!
As most of you know, we are taking a field trip to see the Chamber Theatre productions at the Atlanta Symphony Hall on Friday, May 2nd. Most students have returned permission slips and paid for the field trip, and we thank you for that. In the past, APS transportation has been free of charge. With rising fuel prices, APS is requiring us to pay for bus service to and from the production. This is a cost not figured into the original $17.00 fee for the trip. We are asking for donations to help offset the cost of the busses. It works out to be $3.50 per student. We realize it has already been a large expense to parents for students to have the opportunity to take this field trip. We feel like it will be a wonderful learning experience for all involved, and can not wait for the opportunity. We appreciate your help and patience as we work through this unexpected expense. If you have questions or would like to make a donation, please contact Tommy Firesheets at tfiresheets@atlanta.k12.ga.us for more information.

The Floor is Open for Nominations!
The Inman PTA Nominating Committee is now accepting nominations for the 2008-2009 Inman PTA Board. The Nominating Committee will present candidates for the 2008-09 Board at the May PTA meeting.

Research shows that a family’s level of participation in its children’s education has an enormous impact on the students’ grades, attendance and attitude toward school. The more parents are involved in a child’s education, the more successful the child becomes. PTA is a wonderful way to meet people and be an important part of your child’s education, and the Inman PTA offers parents many opportunities to get involved. If you like to work behind the scenes or prefer to take center stage, Inman PTA has a Board position that fits your schedule and volunteer style!

If you wish to nominate someone for a PTA Board position or want to be considered for a position yourself, please contact Marie Killory (PTA nominations committee) at choib3@hotmail.com. A list of open (or unconfirmed) positions is shown below. Please consider giving your time and energy for a wonderful cause... our children! Thank you in advance for your support.

Officers:
VP Fundraising
VP-Elect of Advocacy

Communications:
Back to School
Inman Insight Editor
Brag Sheet

Advocacy:
CINS representative
LocalState
Fed

Education:
Cultural Arts
Saturday School
Writer's Workshop
Curriculum Liaisons:
High Performers
PEC
Reading Support
Student Recognition
Soaring Eagle
Teacher Grants
Club Support/Grants
Scholarship
Teacher Appreciation
Health and Safety

Fundraising:
Magazine Sales
Xmas Tree Sales
Cooperate Partnerships
Summerfest
Grant Writing

Parent Involvement:
6th grade Liaison
Parent Learning Workshops

Administration:
Child Care
Hospitality

Inman Local School Council
The Inman School Council is soliciting nominations for a Parent Representative. This is a two-year position which will begin in May. The school council meets the last Monday of every month at 4:15 PM in the Media Center. The council is a collaborative group of parents, teachers, business partners and the school principal. The purpose of the Inman School Council is to address issues related to student achievement.

If you are interested in seeking this position please send a short note about yourself and why you are interested in becoming a member of the school council to Pam Revie-Pettersen at pjrp@bellsouth.net by Monday, April 14th. Please give this position some thoughtful consideration; it’s a great way to be involved in educational issues with minimal time commitment beyond the monthly meetings. If you have questions about the council or the Parent representative responsibilities, please don’t hesitate to contact me by email.

From the Teachers regarding the new bathroom policy:

Parents:

It has become necessary to firm up our bathroom policies in order to save precious instructional time. Students have been going without permission in between classes, causing them to be late and lose class time. We have decided to create specified bathroom breaks in the day to alleviate this problem. We will be informing the students of these changes, but wanted to let you know as well.

Students will be permitted to go to the bathroom after connections (before 4th period begins). They have some hallway transition time here. In addition, we will take bathroom breaks as a class during 6th period (teams will stagger the break from 1:45 – 2:00). The students will continue to have a limited number of passes in their agenda if they need to use the bathroom at other times.

Thank you for your understanding with these changes! 6th Grade teaching Team

6th Grade Enrichment Cluster Program: Got An Interest, Passion, Hobby?
Come Share It With the 6th Grade!
For six weeks this spring, 6th grade students will have an opportunity to explore a topic of interest in depth. Students will work together with other like-minded students and an adult who will guide them. These Enrichment Clusters provide interest-based extensions to our curriculum as well as offer a real life connection to the Georgia Performance Standards, AND offer fun, exciting, and interesting experiences to our Inman Students!! Please consider sharing an area of interest and expertise by being a facilitator for this program. It may be from your world of work or a beloved hobby. If you can't be a facilitator, we also welcome any help you are willing to offer our 6th grade teaching team. Contact Tommy Firesheets (tfiresheets@atlanta.k12.ga.us) by Satutrday, March 8th to learn more.

Have You Been Logging Miles for the Inman Middle School and the ING Marathon/Half-Marathon?
We hope that your training is going well. By now your child should have logged about 4 to 5 miles of running in preparation for the ING ½ Marathon on Sunday, March 30th. Students participating in this FREE program will receive race day transportation to start, a t-shirt, medal and a post-race celebratory meal. Students should be training on their own and also during the P.E. classes at school. On race day, the students will run the last 1.1 miles of the ½ marathon after completing the initial 12 miles on her or his own prior to race day. In Coach Hooley's absence from school, please see Sra. Dickerson (kdlarsen@atlanta.k12.ga.us) for more details. We look forward to jogging with you!

The "Inman Brag Sheet" is being updated for an Inman transition meeting next week. If you know of any accomplishments by Inman students worthy of mention, please email it to Abby Martin at abbymartin30306@yahoo.com as soon as possible. Below are some examples from the 2006-07 Brag Sheet:

Inman 6th grade science students along with science teacher Ms. McRae were featured on the APS web site and the local news for their work with Trees Atlanta. The children planted 15 trees around the Inman campus.

Inman's debate team is the winning-est middle school debate team in APS history.Inman's debate team has taken home the Atlanta Public Schools Sweepstakes Award (# 1 award) for the past two years. During the 2006-2007 debate tournament season, Inman students took home over 110 medals!

Writer's workshop: Local authors visited all Inman students and discussed how they use writing in their work.

Be Part of the F.U.N. at Fernbank
Fernbank Museum is currently accepting applications for the youth volunteer program, Fernbank Ultimate Naturalist (F.U.N.).This unique volunteer opportunity for ages 12 to 17 allows young science enthusiasts to serve a vital role in providing hands-on learning to Museum visitors. Please contact the Volunteer Department at 404.929.6360 or volunteer@fernbank.edu for more information.

Host an International Exchange Student!
The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) is looking for families to host foreign exchange students at Grady High School. CIEE is one of the world's leading operators of international exchange programs and related services. You can check them out on the web at www.ciee.org. Our own 6^th grade mom, Leah McLeod, has recently been named as Local Coordinator to CIEE. If you have a particular interest in sponsoring a student (for instance, boy vs. girl, nationality, interests, 10 months or 5 months stay, etc.) please let Leah know these as well. For more information or to volunteer as a host family, please contact Leah at mvita89@comcast.net.
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Drop Everything & READ -- The Book Fair is Here!
The Book Fair will be open Monday thru Thursday, 8:30 - 4pm (Friday 8:30 - Noon), with special evening hours on Thursday, February 7th from 6 - 9pm. Students will be visiting the Book Fair during the week with their Language Arts classes: 6th grade on Monday & Tuesday; 7th grade on Wednesday & Thursday; 8th grade on Thursday. The Book Fair closes Friday, February 8th at Noon. You can visit and shop at the Book Fair on Thursday evening even if you do not plan to eat at the Evening at Inman event!

Please support the Inman Book Fair by asking your child about it, encouraging their book selections, and aiding in their purchase of some great books. A portion of all Book Fair sales go to support literacy initiatives at Inman. You can also make teachers' wishes come true by purchasing Book Fair Gift Certificates that they can use to purchase books for their classrooms. It's a wonderful way to support our school! For more information, or to volunteer, contact Sherri Caldwell (sherri@rebelhousewife.com) or Karen Carroll (knbcarroll@bellsouth.net), or just stop by the Book Fair this week.

PACK THE HOUSE!
Everybody please make plans to come out to watch our Girls Basketball team compete in the semi-finals of the Middle School Basketball Championship on Wednesday February 6th at 5:00pm in the Inman Gym. A huge crown would really help the players and Coach Ryan beat King Middle School and move to the finals on Saturday!

Valentine's Day Dance – Friday, February 8th from 7:00pm -9:00pm
The Inman National Junior Beta club will be hosting a Valentine's Day Dance on Friday February 8th, 2008, from 7:00- 9:00! Dance proceeds will benefit the Global AIDS Charity - RED. Beta will no longer be selling RED products to donate. The cost of the dance is $7. Each student will receive a wristband that includes dance admission, a drink, pizza, and a desert. A guest DJ will be in attendance, as well.

LAST REMINDER - Evening at Inman – Come Eat and Be Merry!
Evening at Inman – Thursday Feb 7th from 5:30 – 8:30 - is shaping up to be a fantastic night! You can purchase advanced tickets (and save $5 a person!) at the Inman School Bookstore all this week. We have 20 great neighborhood restaurants participating including; Atkins Park, Barbettes, Doc Chey's Osteria, Rolling Bones BBQ, Noche, Alons, Metro Fresh, Wolfgang Puck's, Six Feet Under, The Cottage, Camelli's Pizza and San Francisco Coffee. It will clearly be the event of the year and should not be missed! We need a few more volunteers to work 90 minute shifts the night of the event. If you can help please e-mail Warren Bruno, wbruno@bellsouth.net.

CINS' Wednesday, February 13th Meeting
"APS Foreign Language Program", Noon at Coan Middle School
APS continues to embrace a strong tradition in foreign language teaching throughout the school system. A number of schools within the CINS system have K-12 language instruction and other 4-12 language instruction in Spanish or French. This year a Chinese language component was added at Toomer Elementary and Coan Middle School providing K-7 instruction with K-12 instruction being added in the proceeding years. Additionally, APS and Emory University created a partnership to form the Confucius Institute, a language institute funded by the Chinese government to support the Chinese teachers and students, offer Chinese language courses for the community and support curriculum development. These and other exciting initiatives will be discussed on Wednesday, February 13th, 2008. This meeting will take place at noon at Coan Middle School, 1550 Hosea Williams Drive, NE 30317. Lunch will be served for $5.

On Tuesday, February 5th, the Presidential Preference Primary/Special Election will be held so please remember to get out and VOTE! If your polling place is at Inman (or any other school), please be mindful that school will be in session on this day!

Tuesday, February 5th is also "Mardi Gras" otherwise known as Fat Tuesday. For those of you that cook, a recipe for King Cake is available in one of the posts below.

The Inman Scholastic Book Fair takes place next week Monday, Feb. 4th - Friday, Feb. 8th. Please plan to stop by to see the amazing selection of books. This is a great time to stock up on birthday gifts and support Inman at the same time. Remember you can shop on Thursday evening even if you do not plan to eat at the Evening at Inman event! Get in on the excitement of the Scholastic Book Fair by volunteering for a couple of hours during the day. It's a fun and easy way to get involved, and get dibs on great books!

Volunteers are needed for the following shifts: Mon/Fri AM (8:30 – 10:30am; 10:30 – 12:30pm)Tue/Wed/Thur PM (12:30 – 2:30pm; 2:30 – 4:30pm)
Reserve your volunteer time slot today by contacting Sherri Caldwell at sherri@rebelhousewife.com.

Evening at Inman – Thursday, February 7th from 5:30pm to 8:30pm
Inman's annual fundraising dinner 'Evening at Inman' will be held Thursday, February 7th from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. There will be a sampling of over 20 of our neighborhood's best restaurants. Diners can also shop at the Inman Book Fair in the Media Center during the event. Tickets will be sold in advance at the School Store for $5.00 students and $10.00 adults. Children under 6 years are FREE. At the door, tickets will be sold for $10.00 students and $15.00 adults."

Thursday, February 7th is also Chinese New Year. Many of our sixth graders will be celebrating the year of their chinese zodiac sign - The Rat! People born under the sign of the rat are known to be expressive and can be talkative sometimes. They like to go to parties and spend quiet times chatting with their friends. Although the Rat can be quiet sometimes, it is rare to catch a Rat sitting quietly. I am sure the 6th grade teachers would agree with this statement!!

Early Release Day:
The next Early Release Day will be on Tuesday, February 12th. Student will leave school at 12:45pm. There are no after-care services on this day.

NO SCHOOL on Presidents' Day - Monday, February 18th!

ING is giving students from all sixteen APS middle schools the opportunity to participate in the 2nd annual ING Marathon & Half-Marathon by sponsoring the "Run for Something Better" program. Students will begin training in February, running one to two miles a week during PE and after school, and will log all the miles they run prior to the race. Students that complete twelve miles before the March 30th race will have the opportunity to run the last 1.1 miles of the half-marathon on race day. All students completing the free program will receive a race medal, T-shirt, and the thrill of having run a half marathon with people from all over the world. Look for more information to come home from Coach Hooley and the Inman Athletic Department.

GOAL for Girls:
GOAL is now recruiting girls for their after school program to begin in late February. GOAL designs and implements its own experiential, research-based programs that address the social, emotional, intellectual, and developmental needs of adolescent girls, helping girls develop the skills to successfully navigate the challenges of adolescence. If you are interested, please contact Ms. Jeanine Rousso, Graduation Coach, at 404-802-3224 or jrousso@atlanta.k12.ga.us.

6th grade teachers are in need of Kleenex tissues for their classrooms. Please send donations to your child's homeroom teacher. Thanks in advance.

Please remember that the School Store is open each morning from 8:15am to 8:45am. We sell basic school supplies, such as pens, pencils, paper and notebooks. In addition, we have grade level "Inman" t-shirts, agendas, sketch pads, poster board and fun novelty items. Please encourage your student to stop by and shop!

If you are not receving the weekly Inman Online Update (sent out by one of our wonderful 6th grade parents, Karin Dusenbury), please subscribe to the general Inman email list by visiting http://www.inmanmiddleschool.org/mail_form.html or go to http://www.inmanmiddleschool.org/ and follow the link on the left margin to the "Mailing List."

The Honors Assembly for 6th grade will be held Friday, January 25th at 10:00am in the Inman Auditorium. Awards will be given for perfect attendance, Honor Roll, Principal’s List and Perfect Attendance. Please come and cheer on our 6th graders for their academic achievements.

CINS' "2008 Legislative Agenda for Education" Meeting
TOMORROW - Wednesday, January 16th - 7:00 pm at Centennial Place Elementary
Don't wait until tax reform legislation affecting public education in Georgia is passed to find out that your child's education and/or school has been adversely affected! Please join the Council of Intown Neighborhoods and Schools (CINS) for its annual "Legislative" meeting on Wednesday, January 16th, 2008. This year’s meeting will focus on understanding the state budget and how current proposals for tax reform would impact educational funding. Alan Essig from the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute will speak to us about the state budget. Following Mr. Essig’s presentation we will have a discussion with elected officials about the current issues raised by proposed tax reform legislation. This meeting will take place at 7 pm at Centennial Place Elementary, 531 Luckie St. NW, 30313, and their phone number is 404.853.4022. The meeting is free and open to the community. CINS is a not-for-profit organization working to empower public schools in the Grady cluster. For more information on CINS and its mission, please visit www.cinsatlanta.org.

Early Release Day Reminder:
Students leave school Tuesday, January 15th at 12:45pm. There are no after school activities, clubs, sports, or after care program on those days. Please make other arrangements for your children. All students should be off campus by 1:00 as all Inman staff members are participating in professional development activities. Mark your calendars for the next Early Release Day on Tuesday, February 12th.

The next Principal's Coffee will be TOMORROW, Wednesday, January 16th at 8:15am in the Media Center. Come out and meet with Dr. Bockman and other parents to catch up on the happenings at Inman. I look forward to seeing you all there.

Congratulations to 6th grade Debate Team members Kyle Cobb and Sonny Romeo! The two went undefeated in the Debate Meet held on Saturday, January 12th at Inman. These two 6th graders received the first place debate team award and Kyle Cobb also won the first place speaker award. Sonny Romeo received an 8th place speaker award for the meet.

Congratulations to 6th grade Spelling Bee winners, Mary Kate Vian and Skyler Swift! Mary Kate outlasted all other 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students in the annual Inman Spelling Bee. Spelling must run in the Vian family as older brother, Lee, also won the Inman Spelling Bee. Skyler is the first runner up. Mary Kate will go on to the APS Spelling Bee next month.

An Evening At Inman, will be held on Thursday, February 7th, at 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. in the Inman Cafeteria. The Evening was a smashing success last year, and featured an amazing array of foods donated by restaurants such as the Little 5 Corner Tavern, Wolfgang Puck Express, Osteria, Camelli's, and Food 101. That's just a small sampling of the generous establishments participating. The list has expanded even more this year. That's not all! Not only will your family enjoy a reasonably priced dinner with family and friends, you will have the opportunity to shop the Book Fair, view exhibits by the Art and Photo Clubs, and enjoy music performances by the Inman Jazz Band. And, after feasting on this wide variety of menu selections, be sure to save room to enjoy a goody (or two) from the Bake Sale as well. We hope you will join us for an Evening of fun, friends, and delicious food! Advance tickets will be $5 for students, and for $10 adults. Tickets at the door will be $10 for students, and $15 adults (children under 6 free.)

Atlanta's Grady High School and its acclaimed fashion division, UrbanCouture, have teamed up with Pets Are Loving Support (PALS) to launch a pet fashion fundraiser appropriately tagged "Doggies on the Catwalk" which will be held at the Grady High School Gymnasium January 17, 2008. Tickets for the event are $35 in advance and $40 the day of the show. Tickets can be purchased through Ticket Alternative at www.ticketalternative.com. Proceeds from the show will benefit PALS, an Atlanta-based Non Profit Organization that is dedicated to keeping pets and owners together to share the healing power of love and companionship. PALS provides pet-care including free food and basic veterinary care, and support to the companion pets of critically ill and disabled Atlantans. This "doggonely" different event will not only unleash today's cutting-edge fashions from the city's hottest young designers, but noted, beautiful Atlantans will accompany their favorite pets who will be sporting the chicest canine couture in the city. Models will include famous television and radio broadcast celebrities such as WSB's Monica Pearson, CBS46's Jennifer Mayerle, Leslie Fram of 99X, Mara Davis from DaveFM, Tom Sullivan, Cinda B from Movie and a Makeover, Miss Georgia USA 2008 Amanda Kozak, Dorothea Bozicolona-Volpe, Liz Lapidus, and Mitchell Anderson. In addition to these impressive names, the stage will be "strutted" by over 20 cute canines!

Fat Tuesday
Many people do not know that the term Mardi Gras actually means “Fat Tuesday.” Fat Tuesday is the last day of the Carnival season which begins on Twelfth Night (January 6th is the twelfth night after Christmas) and ends the day before Ash Wednesday which this year is Tuesday, February 5th. This is the last opportunity to celebrate before the beginning of the 40-day Lenten period. The pre-Lenten carnival has Roman Catholic origins and is celebrated in New Orleans, as well as Brazil, France, and Germany. A tradition of the Mardi Gras season is the King cake. The cake has hidden within its sweet brioche, a token, usually a coin or bean. When the cake is cut the recipient of the token is the King (or Queen), and can expect good fortune in the coming year. The recipient is also responsible for providing next year’s King Cake! King Cakes have a reputation of being hard to make, but I think this recipe will put an end to that myth.

King Cake
1 package active dry yeast (1 Tablespoon)
½ cup warm milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup sugar
3 eggs
3 ½ cups sifted flour

Filling:
4-6 ounces jam or preserves of your choice
1/4 cup softened butter

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and allow to proof (bubble). In a large bowl, cream together 1/4 cup butter and sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring between additions. Next add the yeast mixture, and mix. Gradually blend in the flour one cup at a time. Mix together until a soft dough is formed. Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise in a warm location until it doubles in size, about 2 hours.

Gently deflate dough and transfer to a floured surface. Roll out dough into a large rectangle. Grease token and push into the dough, then rub 1/4 cup soften butter over the rectangle. Spread preserves over the buttered rectangle. Starting from one long side, roll the rectangular dough into the shape of a tube. Pinch the seam and gently place the roll on a greased cookie sheet to form a ring, pinching the ends to seal. Cover ring again with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise for 30 minutes to an hour. Place in a pre-heated 375o oven and cook for about 20 minutes or until top is golden brown. Cool and decorate with purple, green and yellow frosting.

Just a reminder to spend some time with your 6th grader cleaning out notebooks and checking school supplies over the Winter Break. This is a good opportunity to get a fresh start in the new year. Also, please plan to send extra classroom supplies in with your child in January. Teachers are in need of everything from tissues to dry erase markers and as always printer PAPER!

Students should also continue reading age-appropriate novels over the break to meet their reading goals for the school year.

Have a happy and safe holiday season!

Winter Solstice

Winter Solstice is the time of the year when the light returns as the sun shifts and starts to move northward again. Winter Solstice is the time to celebrate the renewal of the earth. Greenery was used as the symbol. A branch of pine, cedar, and juniper commonly used brings wonderful fragrance into the home. Red candles are used to symbolize the fire and heat of the returning sun as the days begin to lengthen. In Europe, the tradition of the yule log is celebrated on Winter Solstice. A special log is brought in and placed on the hearth where it glows for the twelve nights of the holiday season. After that, it is kept in the house all year to protect the home and its inhabitants from illness and any adverse condition. (The yule log is the counterpart of the midsummer bonfires, which are held outdoors on Summer Solstice to celebrate the shortest night of the year.) Luminarias are also placed outside to light the way for travelers on the longest night of the year.

The longest night of the year also falls during the coldest part of the year. There is very little food available for wildlife to forage on, so to show our appreciation and concern for nature and its inhabitants we put out bird seed, suet and bowls of water for our outdoor friends!

Tweet Hearts
½ cup peanut butter
1 cup birdseed
2 ½ cups cornmeal
½ cup melted shortening (or suet)
muffin tin (greased or lined with paper cups)
pencil-sized sticks (popsicle sticks work fine)
yarn or string

Combine the first four ingredients in a mixing bowl and stir together. Press mixture into a heart-shaped tin or cookie cutter. To create the hole for hanging stand a stick in the center of your bird cake and let the cakes stiffen, then remove sticks and thread string through muffins. Muffins can then be tied to a branch outside your favorite window.

Dear Parents:

At last night's Atlanta Board of Education Legislative Meeting, the Board of Education approved a revision to the Student Dress Code Policy. Specifically, Student Dress Code Policy JCDB was revised to include a provision that prohibits "saggy shorts or trousers." The revised portion of the policy reads:

"Clothing, including spirit wear, must be modest and of appropriate length and fit. Extremely tight clothing, sagging shorts or trousers, or baggy oversized clothing is not permitted."

"Sagging" shorts or trousers that fall below the waist will be specifically prohibited. This action is a further clarification of the existing dress code policy above. Our dress code policy sets expectations for student dress and grooming to avoid disruption of the instructional program, violation of health and safety standards, and offense of common standards of decency. Although schools have been enforcing the district dress code and for the most part, students have been complying, we believe that it is important to specifically prohibit this latest trend of sagging pants. There were no other revisions to this policy. The policy, except for the change mentioned above, may be found in the 2007-08 Student Handbook on page 16. The entire policy is available on the Atlanta Public Schools' website at www.atlanta.k12.ga.us

The school principal has the authority to interpret the dress code and make a case-by-case determination of the appropriateness of a student's dress and grooming. Questions from parents and/or students about the appropriateness of clothing, hairstyles or jewelry should be directed to the school principal. A hard copy of this letter will be going home as soon as possible. Students will be informed of this policy on Friday at a regularly scheduled grade level assembly but it would be great for parents to discuss with students as well.

Sincerely,
Betsy Bockman, Ph.D.

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Field Trip permission forms due – TOMORROW – Wednesday, December 12, 2007
As you probably already know, the 6th graders are schedule to go to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra this Friday. This is a FREE field trip and should be a great experience for your child. However, they will not be allowed to attend if they do not have their permission slip signed and returned by TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY 12/12). Please help your child remember to bring this form in tomorrow. Additionally, the students need to wear concert-appropriate attire, as this is a "dress-up" occasion. No jeans or t-shirts please.

Annual Winter Holiday Concert
The Inman Music Department will present its annual Winter Holiday Concert THIS Thursday, December 13th at 6PM in the Auditorium . Inman Chorus, Band and Orchestra will be performing. Please come support the talented Inman musicians.

CINS' - "Special Education" Meeting
Join CINS and members of the special education community for a discussion about issues relating to special education in public school TOMORROW – Wednesday, December 12th at noon at Morningside Elementary. From practical tips for parents about how to get special educational services for their child to a discussion about the pros and cons of the special education vouchers, we hope to have information for all who are interested in this area. As always, questions from the audience will be welcomed as time permits. This meeting is free and open to the community. Lunch will be available for $7. Morningside Elementary School is located at 1053 East Rock Springs Road, NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30306, and its phone number is 404-853-4024. CINS is a not-for-profit organization working to empower public schools in the Grady cluster. For more information on CINS and its mission, please visit: www.cinsatlanta.org or you may email CINS at cinsatlanta@bellsouth.net .

Christmas Tree Sale at Inman Middle School
Inman Middle School is hosting Barefoot Mountain Farms! The owners, Hal and Linda Hollcroft, have a long history with Inman Middle School and the Virginia-Highlands community. Their farm is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the middle of Christmas Tree Country, where they specialize in Fraser Fir trees. Please support Inman Middle School and take home a freshly harvested Fraser Fir tree, wreath and garland. Tree Stands Needed TODAYThe PTA plans to set up 3 Holiday Trees at Inman THIS Tuesday afternoon. The PTA is supposed to have 3 tree stands but we can only find 2. On the last day of school before the Winter Break, we will take down the trees and take them to needy families. If anyone has a tree stand that they do not need and can drop it off at carpool this afternoon, we would appreciate it. We can use a total of 4 additional stands; one for the school and 3 to donate with the trees. Please drop it off in the office or the PTA Parent Room and if you could advise Susan Halstead at shalstead@bellsouth.net that you plan to drop one off, it would be great so we will know how many we need to purchase.

6th Grade Parents:

From Dr. Bockman: "You all have been very generous in heeding the call for Kleenex, copy paper, paper towels, hand sanitizer, and other needed school supplies--thank you so much. These things are so basic and used on a daily basis that it is so helpful just to have some extras in each classroom. Also thank you to PTA which is filling in the funding gaps in a number of supportive and creative ways. I also wanted to update you all on our 2 eight grade families who experienced real tragedies in early October. Once again, your generosity with gift cards and cash to buy groceries made a huge difference. The 4 eight graders are now in very stable homes with relatives. They seem happy and emotionally okay at this point. The students have special tutors and are on the way to leaving Inman in very good shape at the end of the year.

So can I ask for your help with 2 other families? While delivering the Thanksgiving food boxes we found some pretty desperate situations One family is in great need of some basic furniture--twin beds, a double bed, sheets and blankets, towels, dressers, living room furniture, etc. Really anything would be helpful--there is very little in the home. If anyone has some of these items in your basement that you don't think you will ever use, can you let me know? The other family has great need of gifts and clothes for Christmas for a number of siblings. All ages and sizes really. Books and toys are most needed. If you can help in any way, please let me know. Thank you so much." Betsy Bockman

PTA Project Night TOMORROW - Thursday, December 6, 6:30 - 8:30 pm.
Come see all the 7th grade Math Fair projects, along with the 6th grade Social Studies Fair projects and the 8th grade Science Fair projects. There will be light refreshments. No childcare will be available, but younger siblings are welcome to join you and view the projects.

Christmas Tree Sale at Inman Middle School
Beginning Friday, November 23rd , Inman Middle School is hosting Barefoot Mountain Farms! The owners, Hal and Tina Hollcroft, have a long history with Inman Middle School and the Virginia Highlands community. Their farm is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and in the middle of Christmas Tree Country where they specialize in Fraser Fir trees. Please support Inman Middle School and take home a freshly harvested Fraser Fir tree, wreath and garland!

CINS' December 13th Meeting - "Special Education" – Noon at Morningside Elementary School Join CINS and members of the special education community for a discussion about issues relating to special education in public school. From practical tips for parents about how to get special educational services for their child to a discussion about the pros and cons of the special education vouchers, we hope to have information for all who are interested in this area. As always, questions from the audience will be welcomed as time permits. This meeting is free and open to the community. Lunch will be available for $7. Morningside Elementary School is located at 1053 East Rock Springs Road, NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30306, and its phone number is 404-853-4024. CINS is a not-for-profit organization working to empower public schools in the Grady cluster. For more information on CINS and its mission, please visit: http://www.cinsatlanta.org/ or you may email CINS at cinsatlanta@bellsouth.net.

Annual Winter Holiday Concert
The Inman Music Department will present its annual Winter Holiday Concert Wednesday, December 14th at 6PM in the Auditorium. Inman Chorus, Band and Orchestra will be performing. Please come support the talented Inman musicians.

THANKSGIVING IS TRULY A “CORNY” HOLIDAY

Since Lincoln issued his first National Thanksgiving Proclamation in 1863 declaring the last Thursday of November as a national holiday, Americans have celebrated the annual feast by cooking traditional foods such as turkey, various types of squash and corn. Corn is a truly American product and has been found in North American fossils of pre-Ice age. Even before Columbus landed in the New World, corn was the staple grain of Native Americans who called it “mais” which meant “our life”. In Plymouth, Native Americans taught the Pilgrims how to cultivate corn by planting a fish among the seeds and how to harvest. They also taught the newcomers how to cook with corn by adding a pinch of ash to release more nutrients. In the early years of most colonies like Plymouth and Jamestown, corn was the key to survival. While colonists originally ate corn out of necessity, it later became the food of choice in most Colonial recipes and meals. Spoon bread made with corn meal is a traditional Thanksgiving side dish.

Spoon Bread
2/3 cup yellow cornmeal
1 Tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups milk
2 Tablespoons softened butter
2 teaspoons baking powder
3 eggs, separated

Preheat oven to 350oF. Heat milk in a saucepan but do not boil. Mix together cornmeal, sugar, and salt and slowly stir into heated milk. Continue stirring over low heat. Add butter to the mixture and stir. Remove from heat and allow to cool. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites to soft peaks and set aside. Stir egg yolks which have been lightly beaten and baking powder into the cornmeal mixture. Then gently fold egg whites into cornmeal batter. Stir lightly so as not to deflate the egg whites. Pour mixture into a greased 1½ quart baking dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden. Serve immediately. To appeal to younger palates, add a little maple syrup.

Hi All:

We are heading into one of the busiest times of the school year as we all try to sandwich holiday festivites into our hectic school lives. Here are some reminders for the upcoming weeks. I will keep you posted as more arise!

WRITER'S WORKSHOPS:
Our Media Specialist, Mary Surber, worked diligently to conduct the 17th Annual Inman Writer's Workshop which brought guest speakers to 6 th grade classrooms last Friday to discuss various forms of writing and skills. Be sure to ask your 6th grader what she/he learned. Thanks to all the parent volunteers that made this event such a success!

MORNING DROP-OFF:
Parents, please drop your students in the front of the school in the carpool circle in the morning and allow the students to walk around to the student entrance. If parents wish to drop off on Clemont they will have to drop beyond the bus loading zone. Police officers have been issuing warnings to parents who drop students off in the bus loading zone that tickets will be issued to parents using the bus loading area in the future.

UPDATE FOR MS. PITCHFORD:
Monday, November 5th was Ms. Pitchford's last day with her students before leaving to have her surgery for breast cancer. Her surgery is Friday, November 9th and she is expected to be absent from Inman for five weeks for recovery. In an effort to support Ms. Pitchford during this difficult time, a school-wide community support system has been initiated.

First, if you or your child would like to send a card or letter, please deliver these to homerooms where they will be delivered to Ms. Pitchford by Mr. Firesheets on Wednesday evenings. Secondly, donations are being accepted in order to pool funding for gift cards, flowers, movies, books on tapes and other appropriate tokens of concern for Ms. Pitchford. These donations should be directed toward Joyce Meinert, at joyce.raedel@comcast.net. In addition, physical assistance would be greatly appreciated. If you would like to make a meal, help with grocery shopping, run an errand or help with home care, please contact Eileen Mackett at eileenmackett@comcast.net. Your name will be placed on a volunteer list to be later plugged into a schedule based on Ms. Pitchford's most pressing needs. In the spirit of Mother Teresa's words: "Do small things with great love," let's band together to help our teacher stay strong and heal quickly. If you have any questions, please contact Kim Di Francesco at kimberley.difrancesco@gmail.com.

TEACHERS NEED HELP WITH COMPILING RENZULLI DATA:
The 6th grade social studies team is in need of 6 volunteers (2 per team) to help tally Renzulli results. This information will be used in an effort to solicit experts/speakers and other outside resources that offer curriculum support based on student's interest levels. This is an easy and fun way to help, so please consider volunteering a small amount of time to help implement this goal. Please contact: Kim Di Francesco kimberley.difrancesco@gmail.com or Sue Payne suepayne@yahoo.com to schedule a time in the next couple of weeks that is convenient for you. Clear instructions and materials will be provided.

STUDENTS NEED HELP WITH RESEARCH FOR SOCIAL STUDIES FAIR:
Beginning next week, Mr. Firesheets will be meeting with students every Wednesday and Thursday, 9-10am in the media center in order to begin researching topics for the Social Studies Fair. It would be very helpful to have parent volunteers that can help facilitate with this process. Specifically, students need assistance with site searching their topics, recognizing key information, making notes, taking citations and if you have time, helping with outside resources. So, grab a cup of coffee and come help engage our eager learners.

PTA GIFT GIVING POLICY:
Message from Lila Bradley, PTA President
We all want to show our teachers and school staff how much we appreciate them, especially during the winter holidays and at year end. In the past couple of years, some of the grade level reps have taken on the responsibility of collecting money for teacher gifts. While this is much appreciated by many parents and many teachers, it also has had the unintended consequence of making some teachers and staff feel left out or less appreciated. We discussed the question of PTA involvement in teacher gifts at our last Executive Board meeting. The general consensus--reached with the strong support of the teacher representative to the board--is that teacher gifts should be left to individual parents and that the PTA and its officers and committee chairs should not be involved in arranging for gifts to individual teachers and staff members. Our Teacher Appreciation committee chair, Janet Morgan, does an admirable job with arranging special parties for the teachers a couple of times a year. That, along with the support that the PTA gives to the classrooms, is going to have to be the limit of our involvement. I hope you understand the need for the PTA to get out of the loop of the teacher gifts. Thanks for all you have done and continue to do for our teachers!

GRADY HIGH SCHOOL, COMMUNICATION MAGNET OPEN HOUSE
On Thursday, November 15, 2007, Grady's Communication Magnet will host its annual open house. The program will begin at 7 p.m. in the theater and will showcase the expressive spirit of the magnet program. The evening will include performances by the chorus, band, and orchestra; presentations by drama and speech students; a broadcast by the Grady News Network; a multimedia presentation; and displays of student artwork and photography. Students will also present overviews of the elective classes in the magnet and parents will have the opportunity to purchase the various magnet publications. The communications wing of the Eighth Street Building will be open for visitors following the program. The Ma gnet Open House is also a kickoff for the magnet recruiting process. Eighth grade students from across the system have been invited to attend, and we hope that they will choose to apply for admission to the Grady Communication Magnet. If you have any questions, please contact Carrie MacBrien at cmacbrien@atlanta.k12.ga.us.

Umbrella Donations!
Donations of collapsible umbrellas are currently being accepted for the Zaban Night Shelter. The Zaban Night Shelter, located on Peachtree Street in Midtown, houses homeless couples and has a very successful record of helping unfortunate people get back on their feet. Rainy season (hopefully) is just around the corner. New or used collapsible umbrellas are welcome. A collection box is located in the school front office. If you have any questions please contact Cooper Gluck at glux@mac.com. FYI: IKEA sells nice umbrellas at VERY reasonable prices.

"WAR OF THE WORLDS" - 79 YEARS LATER:

On October 30, 1938, The Mercury Theatre, a young drama troupe under the direction of Orson Welles, performed a radio play called "War of the Worlds" on WABC, New York, and over the Columbia Broadcasting System network, coast-to-coast.

It was based on a science fiction story by H.G. Wells (no relation) which entailed Martians landing in New Jersey to take over the world. The broadcasted imagery produced through sound effects and acting was so powerful, it caused mass hysteria. Thousands of listeners panicked nationwide, not realizing it was just a radio play, even though disclaimers were announced before and during the production.

How bad was it?
The next day, "The New York Times" ran this headline:
Radio Listeners in Panic, Taking War Drama as Fact





The first half of the 60 minute broadcast was presented as a series of news bulletins, and suggested to many listeners that an actual Martian invasion was in progress. There was public outcry against the episode, but it launched Welles to great fame. There is controversy about whether people panicked in the streets, and a series of urban legends have grown up around the production which suggest that major disturbances took place. Welles's adaptation is arguably the most well-known radio drama production in history.


Click here to hear the
Original Broadcast that
stunned America!

HALLOWEEN HISTORY LESSON:

Where did Halloween come from?
There are many different ideas about Halloween's origins. Some say it dates back nearly 6,000 years, while others argue that Halloween has a much shorter history. What most agree on is that Halloween's original focus was more about harvests than horror. Some say the tradition began with the Celts, who lived thousands of years ago in what is now Ireland, the United Kingdom and northern France. The Celts celebrated their new year on November 1, which marked the end of summer and the beginning of the dark, cold winter (the only two seasons the Celts recognized.) To help protect themselves and their crops during the long winter, the Celts staged a joyous harvest celebration called Samhain (pronounced sow-in), which means "summer's end." They also supposedly wore costumes and told each other's fortunes at this time.

How did the name 'Halloween' come about?
By the 800's, Christianity had spread into Celtic lands and Pope Boniface IV named November 1 "All Saints' Day." It was a day to honor those who died for their beliefs. The celebration was also called "All-hallows" or "All-hallowmas" (from an old English word "Alholowmesse," meaning All Saints' Day). People began to call the night before it "All-hallows Eve." This name eventually became Halloween.

Why did people start trick-or-treating?
Trick-or-treating most likely dates back to early All Souls' Day parades in England. During the festivities, poor people would beg for food. Families would then give them pastries called "soul cakes" in return for their promise to pray for the family's dead relatives. Children eventually took on this tradition, known as "going a-souling," and they would visit houses in their neighborhood for drinks, food and money.

Where did the name "Jack-o'-Lantern" come from?
The name "Jack-o'-Lantern" comes from an old Irish myth about a famous trickster named Stingy Jack, who was not allowed into either heaven or below because of his trickery. According to the story, the devil gave Jack a glowing piece of coal placed inside a hollowed-out turnip to light his way at night. As the legend goes, Stingy Jack has been roaming the face of the earth ever since. The Irish named this ghostly figure "Jack of the Lantern," which was later shortened to "Jack o' Lantern." Turnips were cut with scary faces representing demons and were originally intended to frighten away evil spirits (like Stingy Jack!) When European immigrants came to America, they found no turnips, but an abundance of pumpkins. Pumpkins made perfect Jack-o'-Lanterns because of their bright orange color, round shapes and soft insides.

Excerpted from www.timeforkids.com.

Reminders:

The November PTA meeting will be held TOMORROW - Thursday, November 1st at 6:30pm in the Inman Gym. The meeting will focus on technology and its implementations at Inman.
The Inman Technology Foundation would like you to invite you to a "Technology Showcase" to be held on Thursday, November 1st, at Inman Middle School, at which we will thank and acknowledge the generous private and founding contributors who, through their unselfish community spirit, made it possible to install two additional Promethean ActivBoards!

Coupled with the generous purchase from APS for another four boards, this raises our ActivBoard total to 18 and completes our goal of equipping every Inman science and math classroom with this groundbreaking, transformational technology. We will kick off with a "meet and greet" session at 6:30 PM, followed by an overview of how technology is now—and will eventually be—leveraged at Inman to improve student performance. There will be interactive breakout sessions and "hands on" instruction in math and science ActivStudio along with an overview of our Linux ThinClient. You'll also get to see our students at work on their robotics competition preparation and our website development project.

17th Annual Inman Writer's Workshop
The 17th Annual Inman Writer's Workshop will be held Wednesday - Friday, November 7 - 9, 2007. Parent volunteers are needed to cover 10am - 3pm in shifts for these 3 days. Parent volunteers would work in the Media Center, greeting & guiding guests around the school for our 72 sessions over the 3 days. If you would like to be a part of this very exciting program, please contact Sherri Caldwell at sherri@rebelhousewife.com.

CINS' November 14th Meeting - "Questions to Dr. Beverly Hall" – 7:00 PM at Mary Lin Elementary School
CINS will host a question and answer session with Dr. Beverly Hall, Superintendent of the Atlanta Public Schools. Some of the questions will focus on APS' plans for this academic year as well as longer-ranged APS goals. If you wish to submit questions in advance, please email them to cinsatlanta@bellsouth.net. This meeting is free and open to the public. Mary Lin Elementary School is located at 586 Candler Park Dr. NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30307, and their phone number is 404-371-7158. CINS is a not-for-profit organization working to empower public schools in the Grady cluster. For information about CINS and its mission, please visit its website at http://www.cinsatlanta.org.

Halloween Safety Tips:

Halloween is a fun time for kids, but it is also an important time to be extra vigilant for possible safety hazards so that your children have a fun and safe Halloween. Some tips to make Halloween safe include:

Costume Safety:
1. Choose a costume made of flame retardant material costumes should be short enough so that they don't cause your child to trip and fall.
2. For good visibility, add some reflective tape to the costume or bag he is using to carry candy or make/choose a costume made of bright material that is visible in the dark.
3. Masks should fit securely and allow your child to see well and not hinder visibility. Better yet use face paints instead and make sure it is nontoxic and hypoallergenic!
4. Knives, swords and other props should be made of a flexible material, so that they don't pose a hazard if fallen on.

Trick-or-Treating Safety:
1. Children should be well supervised by an adult when trick-or-treating. Older children should trick-or-treat in large groups in well known neighborhoods. carry a flashlight.
2. Stick to well lit houses in familiar neighborhoods only.
3. Follow traffic signals and rules of the road.
4. Avoid taking shortcuts across backyards or alleys. Stick to the sidewalks of well lit streets.

Candy Safety:
1. Instruct your children to bring all candy home before eating it so that you can carefully inspect it for tampering. Children shouldn't snack while they're out trick-or-treating, before parents have a chance to inspect the goodies. To help prevent children from munching, give them a snack or light meal before they go -- don't send them out on an empty stomach.
2. Tell children not to accept -- and, especially, not to eat--anything that isn't commercially wrapped.
3. Throw out candy or treats that are homemade, unwrapped or if they appear to have been tampered with (pinholes in wrappers, torn wrappers, etc.)
4. Parents of young children should remove any choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies or small toys.
5. Wash all fresh fruit thoroughly, inspect it for holes, including small punctures, and cut it open before allowing children to eat it.

General Safety:
1. Homeowners should prepare their home for trick-or-treaters by removing obstacles from the front yard, and lighting the house well.
2. Provide treats that are individually wrapped candy or offer kids nonfood treats, such as stickers and erasers.
3. Artificial lights and candles are a safer alternative to real candles with a flame that can pose a fire hazard.
4. Keep pets indoors and away from loud noises, strangers and scary costumes!

NOVEMBER LETTER FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Dear Inman Parents:

Here's my mantra for the first semester: "The problem is not that there are problems. The problem is expecting otherwise and thinking that having problems is a problem." We have weathered many personnel challenges over the first 11 weeks of school-2 teachers on maternity leave now and 2 more babies on the way, unexpected surgeries, losing 3 teacher positions and 2 paraprofessional positions, and a host of other smaller situations. We have successfully shifted teachers around, changed connections classes, dealt with a pretty major foreign language change, and shuffled lots of 6th grade students into the appropriate math classes. I am confident that all is well and we will take care of any other challenges that come our way.

I am fortunate to have so many talented colleagues who roll up their sleeves, put on their thinking caps, brainstorm with me and help me come to the best solution given the many complications of Inman scheduling and APS and Georgia requirements, reschedule hundreds of students, move teachers and supplies from room to room, and then help me communicate all the changes.

All parents should have received an envelope in the past 10 days with the mid-semester progress report as well as other important information. Hopefully parents were pleased with their child's progress at this point, but some of you many not have been. A reminder that middle schools operate on the semester system which means that the numerical grades that students just received are not permanent per se. The grades earned by the end of December are the permanent marks for the first semester. The ones earned in May are the 2nd semester grades even though you will receive a mid-semester progress report in March. I know it looks so official right there in black and white there is plenty of time for students to improve their semester grades with consistent effort. Grade level tutoring schedules and the APS promotion policy were included in the 6th and 8th grade envelopes. 7th grade tutorial schedules and the promotion policy were just sent via email to all 7th grade parents. Make sure you and your child understand the promotion policy because students must earn a certain number of credits in order to advance to the next grade.

Parents, if you were not so happy with your child's progress let me tell you I can completely empathize. Monday my second grade daughter (who will remain nameless because one day she will not be happy I mentioned this) came home with a not so stellar report card. Of course my first instinct was to run to the computer to send off a hot email to the teacher and principal demanding to know why I was not informed BEFORE the grades, right there in black and white, came out. I calmed down a little bit as I remembered that I did have a 15 minute conference with the teacher earlier in the month and I did receive a 4.5 week progress report that kind of wasn't so stellar either. My daughter loves math at this point and made an "A" but she is not all that fond of the nightly reading and LA homework. How can she not love to read—it is what I live for!! She is not all that driven at this point unlike her little brother who loves school, the rules, the structure, the predictable daily schedule.

So as parent and a principal I have to take the time to notice all the signs, listen closely to the teacher for her observations and suggestions, pay attention to the work by daughter is completing and not completing, not take it personally or feel guilty, and not blame the teacher! The teacher's job is to help students and parents recognize strengths and needs and help my daughter overcome the obstacles with consistent and persistent expectations throughout the year. Of course I was disappointed and maybe a little embarrassed that she didn't make all A's. But it is her work and she has to learn that rewards, accolades, and consequences are there for her. I want the real information and truth. Teachers' teach, help students learn, and then have to record what students show and know. They can't record based on past performance, future performance, "potential", or information from parents.

My two children are very different creatures. My son will do great in school because he is a pleaser. My daughter has a bigger world to explore at this point and school is just one piece of it.

I did send the email but a much more toned down version! I thanked the teacher for her help so far. Here's to parenting.

Betsy Bockman

Don't Miss Inman's First School-Wide Dance Of The Year
THIS Friday, October 26, 7-9pm! Admission is $5 at the door with a signed permission slip or $3 at the door with a perfect attendance sheet. The permission slips and perfect attendance sheets will be handed out by your child's homeroom teacher this week. Please sign and don't forget to have your child bring these to the dance, as they are mandatory for admittance. We'll be selling pizza for $1.50 and drinks, candy, and chips for $.50. The DJ is lined up and RAFFLE PRIZES have been chosen. Since Halloween is right around the corner, COSTUMES ARE OPTIONAL. School dress codes apply. We'd love to have more parent volunteers! Please contact Tracey Fortune – traceyfortune@bellsouth.net.

Message from Ms. Pitchford:
As the new quarter begins, I wanted to let you all know that I will be away from Inman from November 7th until December 14th to undergo surgery for breast cancer. On September 25th, I was diagnosed with early stage, non-invasive breast cancer, and I will need four to six weeks to recover after my surgery, which will take place on November 9th at Piedmont Hospital. The great news is that my doctors caught my cancer early and my prognosis for being 100% cured after surgery looks great.

In the coming days, students may have questions about cancer in general or my diagnosis. It is important for them to know that I am going to be just fine and I will be working to get back to Inman as soon as possible. Take this opportunity to teach students about the importance of early detection, healthcare in America, and how important research and funding can be.

In the meantime, I encourage you and especially my students to log onto http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/reneepitchford where they can keep up with me throughout this journey. Thanks for your kindness as I navigate this bump in the road. I will miss your children dearly.

GOAL, Inc. – A Girl's Journey of Growth
GOAL, Inc. is excited to let you know about a great opportunity that is available for 6th grade girls. GOAL, A Girl's Journey of Growth, has partnered with Inman in the past to bring a weekly program that focuses on issues unique to middle school girls. GOAL's mission is to promote self-esteem, self-awareness, and a respect for individual differences among girls and young women, resulting in an enhanced capacity for leadership.

GOAL uses interactive activities as a jumping off point to group discussions, providing a safe place to explore issues that are pertinent in their lives. Girls engage in role-playing, games, creative expressions and other fun activities, while learning about themselves. The focus for the group is Creating & Maintaining Effective Relationships, with an overall goal of understanding the elements and skills that are required to create and maintain effective relationships in their lives. Groups are limited to 12 participants to insure that each girl is encouraged to speak up and participate.

Currently, GOAL has openings in their existing group. There will also be a new group starting at the end of the year. The group meets on Tuesdays from 3:45pm-5:15pm. If you would like to register your girl to take part in this fun group, please contact Dr. Morgan, the 6th grade counselor. If you would like more information about GOAL, Inc. please contact Ann Pearl, GOAL Program Coordinator, at 404-633-9413 or email at ann@goalonline.org. Information about GOAL, Inc. can also be found on their website, www. goalonline.org.

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Attempted Kidnappings of Children in Old Fourth Ward

In the past few weeks, an African-American male in his 30's has tried to snatch four children in the Old Fourth Ward area. Officials said he drives a light-colored Chevy conversion van with burgundy curtains in the rear windows. Police are looking for the man and his van. The van has a Florida tag with the plate W-8-6-Z-V-I. Anyone with information is asked to call Atlanta Police. More info: http://www.wsbtv.com/news/14372014/detail.html?taf=atl

BBQ and Blues Bash THIS Friday, October 12th
The Inman 7th Annual Family BBQ and Blues Bash THIS Friday, October 12th 5:30pm–8:30pm on the Inman Upper Field. Don't miss this chance to sit under the stars and groove to the music of "The Blues Barons" with all your friends from Inman. Tickets will be sold at the gate. For the low price of $8 per Adult or $5 per Child (10 and under), you will get your choice of Pulled Pork BBQ, Jumbo Dogs, and a limited number of Veggie Burgers with sides including Potato Salad, Cole Slaw, Beans and Chips. Drinks will be available for a dollar. Families are encouraged to bring a dessert to share!

Volunteers are still needed for 60 minute shifts. If you can help out, please contact Warren Bruno at wbruno@bellsouth.net.

6th Grade Language Arts Update
The students have finished their first novel of the year, and will be starting to read "Tangerine" by Edward Bloor. The teachers would like each student to have their own personal copy of each book and are requesting a donation of $25.oo to cover the cost of the novels. Please let your child's L.A. teacher know whether you plan to donate or purchase the books yourself.

Wednesday, October 17th is PICTURE DAY!
Today, we gave the kids informative fliers on picture packages and pricing. They will receive envelopes to order pictures on Monday. There are NOT extra envelopes available, so if the kids lose them, they can't order their pictures. This is the picture that will appear in the Yearbook. Remind your child wear nice clothes and a big smile!

Pre-order your Yearbook today!
You can reserve your copy of the 2007-08 yearbook at the School Store! The cost is $25 cash (or check made out to Inman Middle School.) Yearbooks SOLD OUT within a week of arriving to Inman last year! We would love every student to have a yearbook, and preordering guarantees that there will be one for you when they come out in 2008. As an added incentive to preorder, we offer a special lower price! The $25 price will not last forever. Yearbook prices will increase as the year goes on... For more information, please visit the "Inman Yearbook" page on Homework Hero.

First Inman Dance of the Year
Get ready for Inman's first dance of the year scheduled for Friday, October 26th, 7-9pm. The cost will be $5 or $3 with a perfect attendance coupon. A permission form will be sent home with students. Permission forms are required to enter the dance. Parent volunteers and chaperones needed. Please contact Tracey Fortune at traceyfortune@bellsouth.net.

Directory Update
We are in the final stages of proofreading the directory. In September or early October, you should have a received a verification email to verify your student's entry in the student directory. If you did NOT receive the directory verification email and/or did not respond to the directory verification email, please contact Lynne Goldsman goldsmanL@mindspring.com (place INMAN DIRECTORY VERIFICATION in the subject line of your email) so that you can check your student's entry in the directory.

Magazine Sale & Family Donation Drive a Success
Our Total Magazine Sales & Donations came to $55,758. Out of the total, $5,830 came from family donations, and $21,968.32 (44% of sales) will go to Inman to support our programs/teacher support/scholarships. Thanks to our supporters who purchase magazine sales online, we had over $9,000 of online sales this year! Thanks go to all our volunteers that came every turn-in day to tally up the totals! Kudos to our Inman kids and families who participated in this fundraiser!

6th Grade Picture Forum:
If you have pictures from the Rock Eagle trip, please upload them to the *NEW* 6th grade picture forum for all to see! I have set up an account for 6th grade pictures at Shutterfly which will enable all of us to share download and even order prints of photos taken at Inman events. If you have photos to add or would like to view pictures others have uploaded throughout the school year, simply go to http://www.shutterfly.com/ and enter username: inman6thgrade@gmail.com and password: redteam.

A few reminders:

Superintendent Dr. Beverly L. Hall will host a Fireside Chat at Inman Middle School TOMORROW Thursday, September 20th at 6:30pm. During the session, members of the community will be updated on the district progress and given the opportunity to provide the APS leadership team with feedback. It is an honor to have Dr. Hall at Inman, so we ask you to mark your calendars early and make plans to come and participate in this informative community event.

LAST TURN-IN DAY for Magazine Sale/Family Donation Drive THIS Friday, September 21st
For our last turn-in day, we have added some bonus awards!!! If you bring in at least 1 magazine order, the student's name will be entered into a drawing for the Hummer Limo Lunch. 3 winners will be drawn. If you have already qualified for the Hummer Limo Lunch you will be able to bring a friend if your name is selected. Each student in the top selling homeroom will win a 5 lb Hershey Bar. On October 4th, those who have qualified will receive their smoothies as well as other cumulative awards earned.

ORDER ONLINE: This also reduces the amount of time our volunteers will need to spend processing orders on Friday. A list of online orders will be at the tables for turn in day and your child will get the same amount of credit as they would if you sent in an order form and check/cash. (Plus the order won't risk getting lost on the way to school!)

FREE Movie In the Garden - Saturday, September 22nd
The Morningside Lenox Park Association is sponsoring a FREE Movie in the Garden on THIS Saturday, September 22nd in Sunken Garden Park. Bring a blanket and enjoy an evening of fun and friends. The feature movie will be Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (PG-13) starring Will Ferrell which will begin at 7:30pm. All are welcome!

Literary Writing Contest
The first writing contest of the year is here! The topic of this contest is: "Inman Extras" What do you do after school that is cool?" For example, you could submit a poem on swimming, a short story about a photographer, a drawing of a violin, a script about three friends who play basketball, or anything else you can dream up! Please submit your writing to Ms. Saylor or Mrs. Todd, or email it to inmanwriting@gmail.com, by Monday, October 1st. Winning submissions will be included in The Parallax, Inman's Literary Magazine.

Inman BBQ and Blues Bash – Save the Date Now!
The Inman 7th Annual Family BBQ and Blues Bash on Friday, October 12th 5:30pm–8:30pm on the Inman Upper Field. Don't miss this chance to sit under the stars and groove to the blues with all your friends from Inman. Make plans to close down the kitchen, get out of the house, bring a blanket, a ball, and the whole family!

School Store
The Inman School Store is open every morning from 8:15 until 8:45. Students can purchase agendas ($4), Inman grade level t-shirts ($5), poster board, reeds for woodwind instruments and many other school supplies at the store. We accept cash or checks made payable to Inman PTA.

Drop-off/Pick-up instructions for the 6th grade Rock Eagle trip:
Students (with their gear) will gather on the morning of their departure in the Inman Auditorium. Students can be dropped off at one of the Auditorium entrances on Virginia Avenue or Park Drive anytime after 8:20am. On the day of their return, students may be picked up at the same location at the end of the school day (3:45pm.) Traffic will be difficult on these few days, so please remember to be kind to your fellow Inman families.

Additionally, Coach Ryan is still in need of several Dads with students on Team 6-2 to chaperon. If you can help out, please cantact Coach Ryan at dryan@atlanta.k12.ga.us.

To help raise funds for the PTA Scholarship Fund (which is funding scholarships for the Rock Eagle Trip,) t he teachers are sponsoring a "Guess Whose Baby Picture" Contest." They have all donated a baby or middle school picture and there is a bulletin board outside the Student Support Suite (near the school Store) and for $1.00, students can try to identify all of the teachers. Entries will be accepted until Friday, September 28th. The winner who identifies the most correct will receive a gift card to Borders. All proceeds will be donated to PTA Student Scholarships. Sra. Dickerson challenges all her 6th graders to find her picture! Thank you Inman teachers for donating your time and pictures to this very worthy cause!

ROCK EAGLE PACKING LIST:

This list is an example of what to bring for your stay. It is important to remember the variations in climate which exist during the day. Please bring OLD clothing that can be discarded if necessary.

Clothing
2 pairs of closed-toe, good walking shoes, an extra pair of old shoes/sandals may be needed. A pair of flip-flops or water shoes can be brought for one of the activities. Do not wear them to Rock Eagle.
1 pair of clean shorts/pants per day
1 clean shirt per day
jacket/sweater/sweatshirt
rain jacket
hat or cap
several pairs of socks
pajamas
­sleeping bag/bed roll (pillows & blankets are provided; sheets and pillowcases are NOT provided)

Personal Items
comb & brush
toilet articles (soap, towels, toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc.)
plastic bag for dirty clothes
­water bottle
­sunscreen

Optional Items
hair dryer-if needed
insect repellant
camera and film
flashlight
sunglasses

ONLY OLD CLOTHES ARE NEEDED!
NEW CLOTHES MAY BE RUINED BY HEAVY OUTDOOR USE.

Important Notes:
The two most important items on this what to bring list are a water bottle and a raincoat. We are outside the majority of the time—even when it is hot or raining. Please be prepared.

Limit luggage to one suitcase, backpack, or duffle bag, plus a sleeping bag or bed roll. Avoid sending unnecessary items. Make sure all items are marked with student’s name.

Please do not bring:
Candy, gum, snacks, cell phones (poor reception and your teachers/guides will have them in case of emergency), radios, electronic games, iPods, music, or headphones.

We wish to call attention to the following important items:
1. If your child has specific limitations which would curb his/her participation, please send a note to their homeroom teacher ASAP.

2. If your child is on any medication, please notify the school. Send the medicine, along with written permission and instructions, for school personnel to dispense. If your child has any special dietary needs, please let us know ASAP.

3. Students may not leave the designated camp area without permission and supervision.

4. Your child will not be near a telephone for the majority of his/her stay. If you have an emergency and need to get in touch with school personnel, the Rock Eagle Center’s telephone number is (706) 484-2834.

Dates to Remember:
SEPTEMBER
11 Tues. Progress Reports sent home
12 Wed. CINS mtg. –Principal Forum at noon
14 Fri. 2nd turn-in day for Magazine Sale
15 Sat. APS Wellness Day at Carver
17 Mon. 6th grade Student Retreat Week at Rock Eagle begins
18 Tues. Principal’s Coffee, 8:15am. Media Center
18 Tues. Spirit Day- Crazy Hair Day
20 Thurs. Dr. Beverly Hall, Fireside Chat at Inman, 6:30pm
21 Fri. Last turn-in day for Magazine Sale
22 Sat. MLPA "Movies in the Garden" - Sunken Garden Park, 7:30pm
24 Mon. Local School Council Meeting 4:15pm.

OCTOBER
8 Fri. Teacher Planning Day – NO SCHOOL
12 Fri. BBQ Blues Bash- PTA Event; 6-9pm. Upper Field
15 Mon. Midpoint Semester 1
16 Tues. CINS mtg.-evening-Grady/APS HS. Inman
17 Wed. School Pictures
19 Fri. BBQ Blues Bash raindate
19 Fri. Report Cards sent home
26 Fri. Honors Assemblies
28 Sun. PTA State Legislative Conference
29 Mon. Local School Council Meeting 4:15pm.

Are Your Students Prepared for the Organizational Demands of Middle School?
by Susan Mulcaire

Middle school moves at a fast pace. Students have many different teachers, each with his or her own homework, test schedules, and due dates. Add to the mix the after-school clubs and sports that students participate in, and it is a challenge to get organized.

Good work management and organizational skills are essential for balancing the load and minimizing the stress. For some students, organizational skills come naturally, but for most, they must be learned. While there is little classroom time to assess and train students in work management skills, here are some ideas for how you can help your students be prepared.

Help students make the connection:
Getting students to value good organizational skills is the first step. Teachers can help by connecting the benefits of good organizational skills to the things this age group values most-more independence, less stress, more free time, better grades, and more self-confidence.

Organized binders are key:
A binder is like a compact file cabinet that a student carries around all day to file and retrieve papers, homework, and information. Students must be able to access materials quickly and keep papers neatly stored by subject. Be sure to give students time in class to file papers in the correct place in their binders-no shoving loose papers into backpacks!

Planners are essential:
No matter how good a student's memory is, he or she must have a central place for recording activities. A student's planner should contain important dates and events such as bell schedule changes, holiday breaks, exams, homework assignments, and project due dates. It's a good idea for students to include personal items scheduled during school days such as medical appointments, vacations, and after-school activities.

Have a study buddy:
Students should identify a classmate in each class who can be contacted in the event of a forgotten homework assignment or lost worksheet. The study bud can also help when a fellow student is absent and needs a handout or class notes. Study buds should exchange home contact information.

A homework space that rocks:
Encourage students to locate, design, and stock a work space at home. This will help them do their best work in the least amount of time. The space should be quiet and free from distractions such as people talking, TV, and video games. They can deck it out with posters, pictures of friends, or team photos to make it a place they won't mind hanging out. Make it a "Designer's Challenge" classroom activity in which students design and photograph their work spaces and vote on the work space "most likely to succeed."

Be proactive!
Most students, particularly those fresh out of elementary school, have no idea that a typical middle school teacher works with 100 or more students each day. Unaware of the many demands on a teacher's time, students continue to believe that, as in elementary school, their teachers will track them down to provide a missing assignment. Encourage students to take personal responsibility for following up. You can role-play various student dilemmas in a "What Would You Do?" classroom activity to help students learn to recognize and follow up on matters that affect their grades.

Without basic organizational skills, middle school students can become overwhelmed. In some cases it begins a downward spiral of underachievement that can last into the high school years and beyond. Take some time to help students recognize and appreciate the benefits of good basic organizational skills.

Susan Mulcaire is a teacher, lawyer, and mother of three in Corona del Mar, California.

Excerpted from "50 Rules Kids Won't Learn in School" by Charles J. Sykes

#1 Life is not fair. Get used to it.

#2 The real world won’t care as much as your school about your self esteem. It’ll expect you to accomplish something before you feel good about yourself.

#3 Sorry you won’t earn $60,000 a year right out of high school. And, you won’t be a vice-president and have a car company. You may even have to wear a uniform that doesn’t have a designer label.

#5 No matter what your Daddy says, you’re not a princess.

#13 You are not going to the NBA; so hold off on the bling-bling and spare us the attitude.

#14 Looking like a slut does not empower you.

#15 Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your grandparents had a different word for burger flipping. They called it “opportunity."

#17 Your parents weren’t as boring before you were born as they are now. They got that way paying your bills, driving you around, cleaning your room, and listening to you tell them how idealistic they are.

#18 Life is not divided into semesters and you don’t get summers off.

#19 It's not your parent's fault. If you screw up, you are responsible.

#20 Even though you have a cool mom, and a wimpy principal, the world does not revolve around you or your need to express yourself with a nose ring.

#21 "You're offended? So what? No, really. So what?"

#23 Someday you may actually have to grow up and move out of your parent’s house.

#27 Your private parts weren’t meant to engage in higher-order thinking or decision making.

#29 Learn to deal with hypocrisy.

#30 Zero tolerance = Zero common sense

#31 Naked people look different in real life.

#32 Television is not real life.

#33 Be nice to nerds. You may end up working for them. We all could.

#43 Don’t let the success of other depress you.

#48 Tell yourself the story of your life. Have a point.

Bonus Rule: "Garbage in-garbage out” applies to what you listen to, not just what you eat.

Dress Code Poll Results:

Of the 34 respondents;
five (14%) said their children liked the new dress code;
nine (26%) said their child didn't have an opinion;
seven (20%) said their child didn't like the policy, but understood it; and,
thirteen (38%) said their child "hated" the new fashion policy.

Federal Judge OKs Suspension of Student for Story in Private Journal
By R. Robin McDonald, Staff Reporter for The Daily Report

A Federal Judge recently ruled that Roswell High School was justified in suspending a student for writing a story in a private notebook about a student who dreams of shooting her math teacher. Three years ago, the school suspended ninth-grader Rachel Boim after a teacher discovered the story when Rachel passed the notebook to a fellow student during class. Like her fictional counterpart, Rachel had a sixth-period math class. Last year Boim’s parents sued the Fulton County School District, claiming Rachel’s free-speech rights had been violated and seeking to expunge their daughter’s disciplinary record. A second suit, filed on Rachel’s behalf, also named the district as a defendant. The suits claimed that Rachel’s story did not constitute an actual threat of violence and that it was a work of fiction which no reasonable person would interpret as a threat.

On Tuesday, August 1, 2006, U.S. Senior District Judge Marvin H. Shoob ruled for the school district, saying disciplinary action was justified because Rachel’s story was "sufficiently disturbing to cause school officials to reasonably fear substantial disruption of school activities." The story, quoted in its entirety in Shoob’s order, is told in the first person: "I have the gun hidden in my pocket… I enter the class room my face pale … Then he starts taking roll. Yes, my math teacher. I loathe him with every bone in my body. Why? I don’t know. This is it. I stand up and pull the gun from my pocket. BANG! - the force blows him back and everyone in the class sits there in shock.… Shaking I put the gun in my pocket and run from the room. By now the school police officer is running after me. Then, the bell rings. I pick my head off my desk, shake my head and gather up my books off to my next class."

The cases are Rachel Boim v. Fulton County School District, No. 1:05-CV-2836 (N.D. Ga.) and Boim v. Fulton County School District, No. 1:05-CV-3219 (N.D. Ga.).

The permission forms for the 6th grade trip to Rock Eagle are due THIS Friday, August 31st along with the $70.00 fee. I have attached copies of the form to this email in the event you did not receive these home with your child. The 6th grade team is committed to ensuring that every child that wants to participate in this team-building event has the opportunity to attend. Partial or full scholarships are available based on financial need. If you are in need of financial assistance, please contact Coach Danielle Ryan at dryan@atlanta.k12.ga.us for details.

The Rock Eagle trip is scheduled for September 17 - 20th. Each Team will spend one night at the Rock Eagle 4-H Center in Eatonton, GA. Team 1 will leave on Monday, September 17th and return on Tuesday, September 18th; Team 2 will leave on Tuesday, September 18th and return on Wednesday, September 19th; and, Team 3 will leave on Wednesday, September 19th and return on Thursday, September 20th. A few chaperons are still needed - especially for the Boys' cabins. If you are interested in chaperoning the trip, please contact Coach Ryan at dryan@atlanta.k12.ga.us.

More detailed information regarding transportation and packing lists will be coming home closer to the trip dates. I will send those out as soon as I receive them. Even though you may have filled out a Clinic Card for the School Office, please fill out the additional Clinic Card for use exclusively on the Rock Eagle trip.

Letter from Dr. Betsy Bockman, Inman Middle School Principal

Dear Parents:

I hope your child has had a terrific first few days at Inman Middle School. Our 6th grade teachers can't brag enough about your children. Things are going very well. Students seemed to have learned the ropes quickly, are happy and not too confused, and are already immersed in teaching and learning. This is definitely the calmest and quickest transition period I have experienced in my 5 years at Inman. Thanks 6th grade parents for sending us such great kids! Not a single discipline referral this week. The teachers love the kids.

I am glad your family is now part of the Inman family. Know that you are welcome to visit at any time even though your kids might not be too overjoyed to see you on "their" hall. Mark your calendar for 6th grade "Shadow Day" on Thursday, September 6th. On this day, parents of 6th graders can come and "shadow" their child all day or for a portion. Parents will go to all classes and learn alongside their children. Kind of like an Inman "Are You Smarter Than Your 6th Grader" reality show. We will need you to RSVP to an invitation that you will receive soon. I hope that we get an overwhelming response.

Be sure to review the Inman Style Book and Student Agenda with your child this weekend. Mark your calendar for our Open House Night on Thursday, September 6th, 6:30pm.

Lastly, Jeffrey Shoap, parent of an 8th grader, has a Dad's group that helps around the school in a number of ways - school crossing guard, hall monitors, and just being around. We would really appreciate more dads just being around. It helps in many ways. If you can help please contact Jeffrey (jeffrey@shoap.com.)

Betsy Bockman, Ph.D.
Principal, Inman Middle School

I have been asked to serve as your 6th grade liaison. I will continue to collect email addresses, so if you know of anyone who is not receiving my updates, please let me know. If you have not already done so, I highly recommend subscribing to the general Inman email list, by visiting http://www.inmanmiddleschool.org/mail_form.html .

I have created THIS BLOG page for Inman 6th grade. This is a volunteer page and is NOT intended to be all inclusive! Your student is responsible for ALL his or her own assignments. The site is merely designed to remind parents of happenings for our 6th grade team! If you have things you would like to add, please send them to me. Please limit items to issues specific to Inman 6th grade. (This is not a venue for venting, recruiting or for selling anything.) Be sure to check Homework Hero EACH week for your student's assignments. Assignments will NOT be posted on this BLOG site. However, I hope you'll still find the blog a bit helpful!!

The School Store is open each morning from 8:20am to 8:45am for students to purchase school supplies. Rock Eagle Information and Permissions should be coming home with your student this week. Please mark your calendars for the PTA Back to School Open House on September 6th at 6:30 pm in the Inman Gym. To view the Inman Online calendar, CLICK HERE.

What is a Sixth Grader?

I was asked one day,
I knew what he was,
But what should I say?
He is noise and confusion,
He is silence that is deep.
He is sunshine and laughter,
Or a cloud that will weep.
He is swift as an arrow,
He is a waster of time.
He wants to be rich,
But he cannot save a dime.
He is rude and nasty,
He is polite as can be.
He wants parental guidance,
But fights to be free.
He is aggressive and bossy,
He is timid and shy.
He knows all the answers,
But still asks, “Why”.
He is awkward and clumsy,
He is graceful and poised.
He is ever changing,
But do not be annoyed.
What is a Sixth Grader?
I was asked one day.
He is the future unfolding,
So do not stand in his way.

~ Author Unknown

Important Dates to Remember:

AUGUST
10 Fri. Meet and Greet 1:30-3:30pm.
13 Mon. SCHOOL STARTS
18 Sat. PTA Leadership training 9-noon
20 Mon. Inman Insight deadline
27 Mon. Local School Council Meeting 4:15pm.
31 Fri. Magazine Sale Begins - packets sent home

SEPTEMBER
3 Mon. LABOR DAY - NO SCHOOL
6 Thurs. PTA Meeting--Back to School Open House
6:30 pm. Gym
7 Fri. 1st turn-in day for Magazine Sale
11 Tues. Progress Reports sent home
12 Wed. Principal’s coffee, 8:15am. Media Center
12 Wed. CINS mtg. -12noon –Principal Forum
14 Fri. 2nd turn-in day for Magazine Sale
15 Sat. APS Wellness Day at Inman MS.
17 Mon. 6th grade Student Retreat Week at Rock Eagle begins
18 Tues. Spirit Day- Crazy Hair Day
20 Thurs. Dr. Beverly Hall, Fireside Chat at Inman, 6:30pm
21 Fri. Last turn-in day for Magazine Sale
24 Mon. Local School Council Meeting 4:15pm.

OCTOBER
5 Fri. 8 Fri. Teacher Planning Day – NO SCHOOL
12 Fri. BBQ Blues Bash- PTA Event; 6-9pm. Upper Field
15 Mon. Midpoint Semester 1
16 Tues. CINS mtg.-evening-Grady/APS HS. Inman
17 Wed. School Pictures
19 Fri. Report Cards sent home
19 Fri. BBQ Blues Bash raindate
26 Fri. Honors Assemblies
28 Sun. PTA State Legislative Conference
29 Mon. Local School Council Meeting 4:15pm.

THE INMAN MAGAZINE SALE AND DONATION DRIVE IS BACK...

Starting on Friday, August 31st, your family will have the opportunity to support Inman Middle School PTA by purchasing one of over 750 magazines available through the American Publishers Hearst reading program. You can buy a new magazine subscription or renew an existing one. 44% of all sales will go towards worthwhile activities such as for scholarships for our children to participate in school activities/trips and for teacher support for grants and classroom start-up funds, curriculum supplements & professional development. You may also make a direct donation to the PTA if you prefer.

Our campaign will run until Friday September 21st. All students will have the opportunity to win great prizes and have a lot of fun! We would like to encourage all Inman families to participate. Our goal is to continue to exceed our goal from 2006, which was set at $55,000 which we raised over $64,000. NOW we are shooting for the STARS to raise $75,000. (Volunteer opportunities are available; please contact Carolyn Jordan-White at jordan.white@earthlink.net.)

You can start shopping now online at www.aphearst.com! Just type in our school code #WA7188 to give Inman credit. Remember to mark subscription as NEW or RENEWAL. (Please note that students will only get credit for prizes for orders placed between August 31st and September 21st.)

If you have any questions about this fundraiser, please contact Keli Jones at 404-272-1694 or kcolejones@comcast.net or Faithe Williams at faithe@journeysunlimited.net .

DATES to Remember:
Friday, August 31st: Kick-off Dates – Packets will be sent home Magazine Sales begins for the students
Friday, Sept 7th: First Turn-in Day
Friday, Sept 14th: Second Turn-in Day
Tuesday, Sept 18th: Spirit Day – Crazy Hair Day
Friday, Sept 21st: Last Turn-in Day

The Council of Intown Neighborhoods and Schools (CINS) is celebrating its 29th anniversary during the 2007-087 school year. CINS’ mission is to influence Atlanta Board of Education policy to ensure ongoing progress for all children in the Grady Cluster of Schools. To meet this goal, CINS conducts monthly meetings of parents, school administrators, Atlanta Board of Education members, neighborhood groups and interested individuals to explore resources, identify critical issues and seek solutions to problems of importance to the Grady Cluster of Schools. CINS meetings are always free and open to the community. Lunch is available at all noon meetings for $7. Refreshments are served at all evening meetings for no charge.

Please consider joining CINS today – the membership fee is $10 for individuals, $5 for school personnel, and $25 for organizations. Membership dues fund CINS’ vital work of fostering communication, advocating for our schools, and helping students directly through our teacher grants. For additional information about CINS, please visit our website at http://www.cinsatlanta.org/ or email us at cinsatlanta@bellsouth.net.

==================================================================================Yes!

I want to support CINS:

Enclosed is my check (payable to CINS) for membership:

(School Personnel $5, Individuals $10, Organizations $25)


Enclosed is a donation of $_______ for Educational Grants to Schools

I prefer mailed postcard reminders (rather than e-mail alone)______

Name:__________________________________________


School/Neighborhood Affiliation:_________________________


Address:_________________________________________


City and Zip Code: ___________________________________


Phone: _____________________________________________


E-Mail: _____________________________________________

Please complete the above and mail it to:
Council of Intown Neighborhoods and Schools
P.O. Box 8116
Atlanta, Georgia 31106

Thanks for your support of CINS!

Be sure to check Homework Hero EACH week for your student's assignments.

Here is an example of this week's Team 6-3 Math assignments for Ms. Ginn:

ALL homework is due the day after it is assigned, unless otherwise noted. If homework is not turned in on its due date, the student will be required to write a note in their agenda, providing a reason for why the homework was not completed. Parents must sign the agenda to acknowledge the student's missing work. The student will have 2 days to complete the assignment; the maximum possible score on this make-up is a 65%. THIS IS A FAILING GRADE. It is very important to stay on top of homework and turn it in when it is due.

MONDAY, 8/13:Parents are to complete and sign the syllabus surveyStudents are to complete the Student Questionnaire

TUESDAY, 8/14:Worksheet (WS) #1 (Numbered in Assignment Log), titlted "Backtracking"

WEDNESDAY, 8/15:WS #2, titled "Scheduling Solutions"

THURSDAY, 8/16:WS #3, titled "Quads in Squads"

FRIDAY, 8/17:WS #4, titled "Reasoning Roundup"

If you are interested in receiving emails specific to ALL 6th grade activities, please send a blank email to inman6thgrade@gmail.com, and type "6th grade email list" in the subject line. If you have not already done so I highly recommend subscribing to the general Inman email list, by visiting http://www.inmanmiddleschool.org/mail_form.html.

Today, you should receive a 1st Day packet from your 6th grader. There are several 6th grade-specific items to look for; the Rock Eagle trip information and Intramural sports information. Sixth graders are not allowed to participate in Team sports (APS rule) so intramural sports is the only option. There is also a Team T-shirt contest - entries due Wednesday, August 15th.

Please mark your calendars for the PTA Back to School Open House on September 6th at 6:30 pm in the Inman Gym.

To view the Inman Online calendar, CLICK HERE.

Just a reminder that this weekend is the Georgia Sales Tax Holiday through Sunday, August 5th. For more information on what items are tax-exempt, please visit: http://www.etax.dor.ga.gov/salestax/holiday/index.shtml. Back-to-School pack with all school supplies will be available fro purchase from the School Store at Meet & Greet next Friday, August 10th from 1:30-3:30pm. However, if you are interested in buying your items separately, below is the supply list:

6th Grade Supply List
Inman Agenda (available at School Store)
3" Binder
subject dividers
loose leaf notebook paper
composition book
5-subject spiral notebook
pencil pouch
#2 pencils
pencil sharpener
red pen
blue or black pens
highlighter
pack of colored pencils
USB flash drive (128MB)
ruler/protractor
One Ream copy paper (donation to Homeroom teacher)
One box of Kleenex tissues (donation to Homeroom teacher)
One roll of paper towels (donation to Homeroom teacher)

Email updates: To subscribe to the general Inman email list, please visit http://www.inmanmiddleschool.org/mail_form.html or go to http://www.inmanmiddleschool.org and follow the link on the left margin to the "Mailing List." If you are interested in receiving emails specific to 6th grade activities, please send a blank email to inman6thgrade@gmail.com, and type "6th grade email list" in the subject line.