The October 2012 Issue

theGoldenEagle

Aug. - O

ct. 2012: Issue 9

The Official Newspaper of A.W. Brown - Fellowship Leadership Academy [www.awbrown.org]

“Learning today, Leading tomorrow -- We make the connection.”

The Back-to-School Issue

Read ME

District News

Exemplary Expansion for Early Childhood Campus

After the much-awaited AWB-FLA school auditorium, AWB has begun its next phase of the expansion project. After the new business offices magically appeared in what seemed like overnight, construction for the new Early Childhood building began in August. The new Early Childhood building is an extension of the current building where Pre-K and Kindergarten classes currently reside.

This year, the Kindergarten team joined the Early Childhood campus filling all classroom portables and the enlarged cafeteria constructed to hold all 10 sections of each grade level at one time.

Benjamin Solomon, Technology Director, said the new Early Childhood building will be equipped with school view which is the audio and video AWB system primarily used for dismissal. The 30 plus classrooms will have Promethean boards and students will have access to two outdoor playgrounds, a gym, music and art rooms and

computer lab. The tentative move-in date into the Early Childhood building is in the summer of 2013. “We’re thinking about the future. We can’t expand upper grade levels if we didn’t move Kinder out and where would we put 8th grade if we didn’t move 1st out,” Solomon said. Thankfully, in the future, AWB teachers will find a more permanent home between the North, South, and Duncanville campuses.

The Early Childhood extension will later house Pre-Kindergarten classrooms only. The Intermediate campus will become the Elementary building for grades K-2nd and middle school grade levels will move to the 105 acres of land that AW Brown owns for the middle school, high school, and performing arts center in Duncanville. In the meantime, “we’re working out the logistics and financial responsibility of expanding to the Duncanville property,” Solomon said. “There are strategic plans in place.”

What’s INSIDE

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“Kids Fall Fashion Lookbook”Check out the hottest Fall jackets of the season.By: Micaela Titus

“Natural World 4 Natural Girls”AWB staff member hosts first event for natural hair.By: I’sha Gaines

By: I’sha Gaines The GoldenEagle Editor

AWB-FLA breaks ground on new early childhood campus in

August

Tammy Williams, Kindergarten teacher, said although the move was overwhelming she’s happy to get her Promethean board back once the new Early Childhood expansion is complete.

“I really love technology!” Williams said. “I’m really looking forward to using it again.”

Williams recognizes that expansion also means growth.

“It’s a great opportunity for the students,” Williams said. “It’s awesome for them to experience it with us. We’re living through it. It’s awesome to just be a part of it. I have 2nd, 5th and 6th grade boys, so I don’t have to worry about them going to another [school in the future].”

Another upside to the Early Childhood expansion project is the number of new parking spaces that will open for parent parking. There will be more than 170 parking spaces available. There will also be two entrances on both ends of the

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District NewsThe ability to

communicate to individuals and to speak well before small and large groups is one of the determinants of how successful one can be in life.

Following the school-wide Olympic theme of “Where Champions are Created”, this year’s oratorical contest will feature poems that are all about the “Heart of a Champion.”

When told of the theme, teachers eagerly searched out poems that focused on the importance of having the heart of a champion in all you do in life. In-class competition for the Oratorical Contest is Thursday, October 25. The school-wide Oratorical Contest will be held on November 1.

The Oratorical committee members are Ms. Arnold, Ms. Faison, Mr. Holmes, Ms. A. Smith and Ms. Waller.

Annual Oratorical Contest

“Homecoming Honeys”5th Grade teachers play on Parent vs. Staff Home-coming football team together. By: I’sha Gaines

The new early childhood building is pictured above

Homecoming

Royal Flush

The AWB-FLA staff team won the Homecoming football game Friday, October 19, 2012 at 7:30p.m. Final Score: 32-20. The team wore royal blue jerseys and welcomed new

team members with open arms. Holmes middle school band and majorettes began the homecoming game festivities and jumped off the half-time show. The AWB Majorettes also made their twirling debut. The ladies twirled in glitzy red and gold uniforms smil-

ing all the way through.

Stay tuned for Homecoming Pictures in the next issue of the GoldenEagle.

- Dorothy Gentry, News Editor

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Design:

theCREW

Advertising:

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Contributors:

Photographers: robertWHITE, [email protected], M.Moore, I.Gaines, D.Gentry, M.Titus

Staff

Writ

ers:

ishaGAINES, [email protected]

ishaGAINES, [email protected]

Oops! We apologize:

Copy Editors: Marc Morrow, ESL Director & HEROES Community Service Coordinator

marissaMOORE, Pre-K 4 [email protected]

myrondaSOWELL, Kindergarten [email protected]

i’shaGAINES, Pre-K 4 [email protected]

Editor:

dorothyGENTRY, 4th Grade [email protected]

NewsEditor:

ebonyKENNEDY, 6th grade Student [email protected]

ardinaCOLBY, Kindergarten [email protected]

Cartoonists: Jeremiah Bodwin

Staff S

potlig

ht: Na

tural

World

for N

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Girls

Happy belated birthday to our most wonderful Principal, Mrs. Paula D.

Brown.

BennyDunn, 4th Grade Student [email protected]

A.W. Brown - Fellowship Leadership Academy www.awbrown.org

Happy Birthday!

GoldenEagle....

micaelaTITUS, 6th Grade Language Arts [email protected]

Natural World for Natural Girls Host Annual Event

Sometimes not finding what you’re looking for works in your favor.

For Ms. Christale Thompson, searching did just that. What began as a quest for products to use on her natural hair ultimately became a business. Three years in the making, Thompson started A Natural World for Natural Girls and hosted her first event on September 15th. The event was held from 4p.m. to 7p.m., in the Dress Up Event Hall in Duncanville, TX, and hosted vendors like Oragno Gold, Natural Epiphany, Mocha Cosmetics and Deep in the Roots hair salon in Lancaster, TX. Guests were able to shop, socialize, participate in open forums, listen to a musical guest and learn new tricks for maintaining and taking care of their natural hair.

Natural World for Natural

Girls aims to host annual events that not only celebrate women and men who have natural hair, but also provide them with a resource to learn more about hair care products, services and the beauty and healthiness of their [natural] hair, Thompson said. Next year, Natural World for Natural Girls will host a 3-day triple threat event full of Natural Hair YouTube gurus, out-of-state speakers, poetry, hair shows, music, and professionals conducting How-To courses on make-up and hair. The event will conclude with an appreciation banquet. “[Businesses will] get awards for their services and things they do in the community,” Thompson said. “You know a lot of these natural hair care stylists give back to the community. I just want to give out awards for that – for [them] taking care of our children and taking care of our people.” Thompson advises future business owners to step out on faith to pursue their dreams. She said with the right timing, your business will flow. “My thing is if you’re out there and you want to start anything, ANYTHING, the best thing to do is to fast on it, pray about it, and God will let it happen,” Thompson said. “Just step out on faith and you’ll have no worries.”

Mrs. Shimese Flowers, a supporter of Natural World for Natural Girls, said attending the event was exciting and refreshing. Flowers said she met many vendors who sold items not available in the general market. “It was definitely refreshing to be apart of something that I’m actually going through,” Flowers said. “Ms. Thompson did her thing, she was on point. She listened to God. We’re looking forward to the second annual event.”

Ms. Christale Thompson is the creative mind behind a Natural-World-for-Natural Girls.

By: I’sha Gaines, The GoldenEagle Editor

AWB-FLA staff member cre-ates company that hosts an-nual events for natural hair.

Celebrity on Campus: Winfred Dalcour Makes 3rd Grade Teacher is fea-tured in movie production.

By: Ardina Colby, Staff Reporter & Columnist

There’s a celebrity in our midst! Our very own Mr. Winfred Dalcour (third grade) is appearing in the new movie Delivered. Released on October 5, 2012, Delivered is based on the true life story of Minister Bobby Ray Justice. No stranger to the stage or big screen, this is the third film role for Mr. Dalcour, and certainly not the last. Delivered

premiered to select audiences in early October and a national release announcement is expected soon. Movie set. Stage. Classroom. It doesn’t matter to Mr. Dalcour. He says he lives by this quote, “Happiness doesn’t depend on how much you have to enjoy, but how much you enjoy what you have.” Dalcour is happily married to Pre-K Teacher Kim Dalcour, and they have two lovely daughters. Dalcour’s next project will be a play called, “Papa was a Rolling Stone”. The production will premiere on October 27th. See Mr. Dalcour for ticket information. Mr. Winfred Dalcour poses in front of

his movie display

Campus Initiatives: Early Childhood Campus

Makayla Bailey, Jeda Harrison, Tierra Derrick

Collecting Box Tops

Go online to www.btfe.com/products for a complete list of participating box tops products.

Contact Carla Butler email: [email protected] phone extension : 2143

Parents and Students: Please cut out box tops from you favorite products. The products will be turned in for cold hard CASH.

Let’s get to collecting!

There are no corrections for this issue.


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Ads sponsored by the H.E.R.O.E.S Project, Marc Morrow

PERSISTENCE

Failed, failed,failed.And

then...

building. One spot will be utilized for parents and the other for AWB-FLA staff members, Solomon said.

Autrelle Scott, an AWB-FLA parent who walks his daughter into school daily from the Toys-R-Us parking lot, said more parking spaces will be more convenient for parents who park and walk. Scott said he’s okay with the changes AWB-FLA

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Texas Law and Politics

In March, the 81st Texas Legislative Session brought forth many new laws that can effect schools, kids, and parents.

We’ve compiled some of the important ones to keep you informed.

ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS, VACCINATIONS, AND SAFETY

Two bills related to child vaccination passed. SB 347 by Senator Jane Nelson, which was signed into law by the Governor, allows for immunization information to be released to emergency providers in the case of a disaster. HB 1409 by Representative Chuck Hopson was signed by the Governor. It increases access to influenza vaccinations for children older than age 7 by allowing pharmacists to administer them. Since this is the first year that the Center for Disease Control has recommended that vaccination for influenza be included for all children in the regular vaccination schedule, some policy makers have suggested using schools as a site for administering these vacci-nations.

SB 61 by Senator Judith Zaffirini takes effect September 1, 2009. It requires that children under eight years old be secured in a safety seat while in an automobile; the current law applies to children under five years old. Two bills related to child vaccination passed. SB 347 by Senator Jane Nelson, which was signed into law by the Governor, allows for immunization information to be released to emergency providers in the case of a disaster. HB 1409 by Representative Chuck Hopson was signed by the Governor. It increases access to influenza vaccinations for children older than age 7 by allowing pharmacists to administer them. Since this is the first year that the Center for Disease Control has recommended that vaccination for influenza be included for all children in the regular vaccination schedule, some policy makers have suggested using schools as a site for administering these vac-cinations.MATERNAL AND INFANT HEALTH

Three bills passed and were signed by the Governor regarding new-born screenings. HB 1795 “Greyson’s Law” by Representative Paula Pierson expands the scope of genetic disorders screened for at birth. HB 1672 by Representative Myra Crownover, requires DSHS to add sickle cell newborn screening to existing requirements. It also requires DSHS to disclose its usage of genetic material collected during newborn screenings and allows parents the option of having genetic material destroyed. Funding for 10 cystic fibrosis screening was also appropriated in the budget. HB 1671, also by Representative Myra Crownover, authorizes DSHS to enter into contracts with other states to ensure continuity of newborn screening services in the event that a disaster affects the state laboratory.

District News

AWB-FLA has begun a new district-wide reading initiative. During dismissal students will drop everything and read. Dubbed D.E.A.R time, students will be provided with books to read together as they wait for their parents to pick them up.D.E.A.R time is a special reading celebration to remind and encourage families to make reading together on a daily basis a family priority, the national website said. National D.E.A.R day is on April 12th, which is the birthday of

By: I’sha GainesThe GoldenEagle Editor Pre-Kindergarten students sit in the

hallway of the Early Childhood campus reading books during DEAR time.

renowned author Beverly Cleary. For AWB-FLA, D.E.A.R time will provide students with additional time to tackle classroom reading assignments and requirements for daily reading logs. Teachers will have carts full of books for students to choose from. Dean Michelle Briscoe introduced the reading initiative at a September staff meeting.

is making and feels most parents will enjoy parking closer. He said he personally doesn’t mind walking from across the street.

“[I don’t mind walking], I’m on the move anyway,” Scott said. “[More parking spaces] would be much easier and faster.”

VOTE: Have Your Voice Heard! Any registered voter may vote early, beginning October 22, 2012, by appearing in person. Early voting ends on November 2, 2012. You may vote at any early voting location in your county of registration. You will be able to find Election Day voting locations by searching the site www.votetexas.gov. Also, many newspapers publish Election Day polling locations. The hours of voting on Election Day are 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Only specific reasons entitle a registered voter to vote early by mail (no longer called absentee voting). You may request a ballot by mail if you:

By: Marissa Moore, Staff Writer

1. will be away from your county on Election Day and during early voting.

2. are sick or disabled;

3. are 65 years of age or older on Election Day; or

4. are confined in jail. Many elections are very close, and every vote counts. Just think, your vote could be the tie-breaking vote in a close election. Now that you have the information on when, where, and how; Get out there and vote!

Pg. 4A.W. Brown - Fellowship Leadership Academy www.awbrown.org

Homecoming Honeys2012 Parent vs. Staff Football Homecoming Game brings us the love from two 5th Grade

Teachers and their ‘hubbies’


DUNCANVILLE - Homecoming brings us a lot of things: alumni, silly dress downs days, heightened school spirit and more, but this year it’s bringing something extra - love. These lovebirds, noticeably together, were on one accord, and not just any old accord – they were all married. The Ingram’s and the Buffing-ton’s geared up for the Homecoming game – married style. Their “Good Job, baby’s” and flirtatious manner-isms on the field didn’t go unnoticed. Not to mention, they can really play.The pairs played together on Oct. 19, 2012 in the Parent vs. Staff Home-coming Football game. The Buffington’s together practiced as defensive lineman while Mrs. Regina Ingram intercepted the football on defense and her husband Cedric Ingram gained a heap of yards while practicing in the receiver posi-tion. This was the first year; either family play together. Cedric Ingram played with parent football team last year, while his wife, Regina Ingram carried their third child – Leila Ingram. “It kind of feels good being

there, playing together because re-ally it’s either I’m playing something or she’s playing something,” Ingram said. “So it’s kind of different this year playing together. Ever since we’ve been together, she’s either playing softball or I’m doing some-thing, so it’s like the first time we’re seeing each other, as far as sports. “Other than baseball,” Regina Ingram adds. Right other than baseball, this is totally different,” Cedric Ingram says.Cedric Ingram admits that the pair is very competitive – even if it’s a board game match – but in particularly with sports. “Anything I do dealing with sports, I’m competitive,” Ingram said, “It’s not gonna be hard to lose focus [during the game]. She’s the same way. We hate to lose.” Regina Ingram said, the ca-marade rie of the AWB-FLA staff team motivated her hubby to play. The pair met her freshman year at University of Houston and are both coaches. Regina Ingram coaches the AWB-FLA volleyball teams, while Cedric In-gram coaches lil’ league baseball for

their son. More debates for the pair to have, Regina Ingram said the pair often debate the rules of sports. “We don’t really argue much about playing sports,” Regina Ingram said. “We argue about how sports are supposed to be played.” Specifically why a team

The Ingrams

Cedric and Regina IngramThe

Buf

fingt

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Kellen and Venita Buffington

The dancers had the opportunity to participate in the Cedar Hill High School 3 day dance camp in September. After completing in the dance camp, the Eaglettes also had an opportunity to perform at the Cedar Hill High

school football game pregame and halftime show with the CedarHill High Steppers Friday, September 28th.

GoldenEaglettes

Dance Troupe

Boy Scouts

Boy Scouts #5701 enjoyed a fun-filled day at Mavstoberfest, in the American Airlines Center.

Shout out to Spud Webb for coming to our section.

Coach Regina Ingram motivates volleyball team dur-ing a time out.

Volley

Ball

Homecoming

Extracurriculars

chooses to blitz when they do. And as for flirting, we’ll be in for a treat. Regina Ingram confirms, “Yes, absolutely!” there will be more. “If I’m going to flirt with anyone it should be my husband – so why not.” “We’ve been at this thing for 11 years, we know how to keep it game ready.”

At Left: The Buffingtons appear pointing at their football jerseys on the field.Mrs. “Buff Cinco-Cinco” and Mr. “Buff DA Stuff” married on 5.05.12. Their sons all wear #55 on the backs of their football jerseys in remembrance of that day.Ph

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By: Jeremiah Bodwin

Student Cartoonist: Back to School

Early Childhood

Stop, Drop and TiePre-K Teachers hosts first annual

shoe-tying campaign.

If you’ve never experienced the time and patience it takes to teach a Pre-K and Kinder student to tie their shoes, then you have no idea what patience is! AWB-FLA Kindergarten and Pre-K4 teachers hosted the first annual shoe-tying campaign in the month of September. For 10 minutes each day,


shoe-tying was implemented into the students’ daily routine. Teachers took time out to teach their students how to tie their shoes. Students were taught the bunny-ear shoe tying method and celebrated their efforts at the shoe-tying assembly. At the assembly, students competed in a shoe-tying relay race, learned about shoe-tying safety and sung along to “Tie Your Shoes Jack” a song written for the Shoe-tying campaign. The song was presented by Pre-K Teachers Mr. Shoetie (Mr. Jackie Ransom) and the Stringettes (Ms. Marissa Moore , Ms. Karea Gardner, and Ms. I’sha Gaines). Congratulations to every participant and teacher who taught shoe-tying with amazing patience.

Mr. Jackie Ransom AKA Mr. Shoetie per-forms “Tie Your Shoes Jack”

The Stringettes: Ms. Gaines, Mrs. Moore and Mrs. Gardner

Extracurriculars

Bully Be Gone: Campaign Kicks off with Rally

By: Dorothy Gentry, News Editor

The second full year of A.W. Brown’s Anti-Bullying Prevention program – ‘Stop the Bullying – We are Family’ was kicked-off with an energy and excitement-filled rally in the school’s auditorium last month. During the rally, students and audience members were treated to music, singing and performances from groups such as the Honor Choir, cheerleaders, Lovely Ladiz and the Speech and Debate team, and lively bantering from MC Mr. Dalcour and DJ BenSolo (Mr. Solomon). Speech and Debate team members performed skits and read speeches related to bullying and Mr. Morrow led the students in a fun game that centered on the importance of synergy and working together. At the end of the game student representatives put their hands in washable paint and left their handprints on paper. This gesture was a symbol of “just squashing” bullying. “We are determined to stop bullying before it starts,” said Dr. George Banks, sponsor of the Anti-Bullying Program. Dr. Banks reviewed the definition of bullying and an outline of the schools’ Anti-Bullying Discipline Plan. Students were also educated on how to report bullying incidents, how to assist others and strategies to prevent bullying. AWB-FLA’s Anti-Bullying Program was conceived by students and is led by a core student leadership team. Last year, a group of 5th graders came to Brown Principal Ms. Paula Brown with a proposal to try

to help stop the spread of bullying on campus. This group of now 6th graders is now honorary members of the program. They are: D’aheja Gillis, Diamond Durham, Bryson Green, Ashleigh Ekwenugo, Ariyana Cooper, Chynna Crawford, Darius Durham, Dominique Labbe, Faith Taylor and Donovon Curtis. From that single meeting in Ms. Brown’s office, the anti-bullying program began to take shape. Dr. was added as the sponsor, joined later by co-sponsors and staff leadership team members, Ms. Colleen Robinson, Mr. Dwain Thompson, Ms. Chavalla Arnold, Ms. Anika Maiden and Ms. Dorothy Gentry. The purpose of the “Stop the Bullying” program is to initiate awareness of the seriousness of bullying and its effects on its victims as well as the bully. It designed to prevent bullying and protect students and staff from the abuse of negative behavior, inclusive of the physical and verbal acts. Students will be positively engaged through peer mediation sessions that help them learn to resolve conflicts without violence. AWB-FLA offers mentoring as a resource for students who might need more individual support. In addition, the anti-bullying program features character education with a focus on teaching respect, responsibility, integrity, initiative and commitment.

Bullying Program kicks off cam-paign with pep rally.

Dr. Banks appears on-stage with students during the bullying campaign assembly.

Student Opinon: Back to School

Coming back to school this year has been so much fun! I have made new friends and have great and exciting new teachers. I am also learning new things and having new experiences. Coming back to school has been better than I expected. Fourth grade is a little tough but it promises to be a fun year!-Makayla Bailey, 4F

Back-2-School Thoughts - 4th Grade Contributors

Makayla Bailey, 4F

A.W. Brown is a wonderful school and this year is already turning out to be my best! The teachers are nice and are teaching us a lot of good information. I love school. Fourth grade is very important. You take a lot of tests and you have to really work hard! But it is worth it.-Tierra Derrick – 4F

Going back to school is my favorite time of year. When I get back to school, I find some of my friends and catch up with them. I also like school because you get to see your new and old teachers. This year I have some great teachers and have already experienced some new things. In writing, I am learning how to write “fourth-grade sentences”. This is going to be a great year!-Jeda Harrison, 4B

Jeda Harrison, 4B

Tierra Derrick – 4F

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Random Relevance with Ardina Colby...Things with which we all deal.

Deadlines!

The word alone can wreak havoc on one’s nerves. Well, maybe it’s just my nerves. I am not, however, ashamed to admit it. My name is Ardina and I struggle with deadlines. Sometimes it feels like I’m the only person in the whole wide world who’s THIS discombobulated and unorganized. In addition to my day-to-day duties, I’m actually supposed to remember when 100 other things are due?

Turn receipts in. Send email by Tuesday. Reply by Next Monday. Submit order form by Friday at noon. Write down every-single-positive parent contact AND remember to turn them in. Send attendance. Don’t send it too early though. Get those grades in. Sigh! Maybe there’s a support group for people like me . . . procrastinators anonymous? Overworked anonymous? Spread too thin anonymous?

But I’m an educator. Aren’t I (Am I not) supposed to be uber-organized? I mean, I plan my lessons a week, sometimes WEEKS, ahead of schedule for crying out loud. I hang my clothes in order by color and type. My socks are folded and

stacked from lightest to darkest. Wait a minute! Maybe I AM organized . . .sort of . . .kind of . . . in certain areas. Well, then why do I still struggle with deadlines? Does anyone else have this condition?

Maybe I work better under pressure? Maybe the right-brained artist inside of me just can’t stand the structure? Maybe, just maybe, the life of an educator is just so stuffed and full that racing to meet and beat deadlines is just a way of life?

Hmmmm. Maybe I’m onto something. But deadlines are a part of life aren’t they? I guess I can either figure out how to get it all done . . .by the deadline, or deal with the consequences.

The truth is, I am learning. Writing everything down in the same calendar helps a lot. I just have to remember to actually write it all down. And sometimes, I just have to force myself to sit down, tune everything out and just get it done. Occasionally I set reminders on my cell phone. Now, if only I can remember where I wrote it all, where I put it, and where my phone is.

Next column. Forgetfulness.

At-Home Projects

Sowell’s Sizzling Science

By: Myronda Sowell, Staff Writer

Making It Rain: A Weather Experiment

Materials: glass jar, plate, water, and ice cubes

Experiment: 1. Heat your water until it is

steaming.2. Pour the hot water into a jar

until it is about 1/3 filled. Put a plate on the top of the jar. Wait a minute or two before the next step.

3. Put the ice cubes on top of the plate and watch closely to see what happens inside the jar.

4. Streaks of water will run down the side of the jar, making rain!

What happens?The cold plate causes the moisture in

Myronda Sowell’s Kindergarten class looks on during their “Make it Rain” sci-

ence activity.

the warm air, which is inside the jar, to condense and form water droplets. This is the same thing that happens in the atmosphere. Warm, moist air rises and meets colder air high in the atmosphere. The water vapor condenses and forms precipitation that falls to the ground.

Literature Connection:Rain by Robert Kalan & Donald CrewsLittle Cloud by Eric CarleThe Rain Came Down by David Shannon

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It would be a dream come true if all students graduating from A.W. Brown Fellowship Leadership Academy were able to attend college. A school with a one hundred percent college acceptance rate is unheard of …until now. Urban Prep Charter School, located in Chicago, has announced that all 107 boys in its first graduating class have been accepted to a four-year college. What is their secret to success? The odds seemed stacked against them as the school, which is composed entirely of African-American male students, had only 4 percent of their first incoming class reading at grade level. But by the time they became seniors they had all been molded into what A.W. Brown calls “S.E.E.D.S”; Smart, Effective, Efficient, Disciplined Students. In Chicago, where only about 40% of African-American boys even graduate at all, and out of those 40% only about half go on to college, how did this new charter school manage to train such champions? The answer lies in several domains, but one that stands out is the requirement that students show LEADERSHIP. All students are required to participate in extracurricular activities as well as public service. They are also taught the 4R’s: ritual, respect, responsibility, and relationships. Founder and CEO Tim King states, “I say we give (the students) shields and swords.

In Our World

Chicago Charter School With 100% College Acceptance Rate

The swords are hopefully this great education. They know how to read and write and add. Equally important, and perhaps more important, are the shields: resiliency, self-confidence, and self-awareness. Hopefully we have instilled these things, really woven them throughout the curriculum.” Another contributing factor to their success is the wonderful and dedicated faculty. Teachers make themselves available outside of class hours to counsel students on issues ranging from homelessness, family dynamics, and money troubles. The number one criterion used to make hiring decisions is that teachers believe in the mission, says King. This is another similarity to A.W. Brown where our mission statement is always kept at the forefront of teachers’ minds. Part of the mission of Urban Prep is to make students feel safe at school. The neighborhoods surrounding the school are gang territory, but the school grounds themselves are a safe oasis. All students are required to wear a uniform including a blazer and tie. They are addressed by their last names. The atmosphere is all-business and very professional. The most unique feature of Urban Prep’s culture is its focus on college, an emphasis that infuses every aspect of the school – from an achievement-oriented mission statement that students recite daily to the framed acceptance letters that decorate the walls. The young men take pride in swapping their red ties for red and gold striped ones after they are accepted into a college program. During this exciting period of growth for A.W. Brown, as new grade levels are being added and new buildings being constructed, it is a crucial time to reflect on the importance of a focus on college for our students. Hopefully our school will be the one in the news for a 100% college acceptance rate in the near future!


100% Attend College at Urban School

OPTIMISM

ThomasEdison

Onthe10,000th try

therewaslight.

Ads sponsored by the H.E.R.O.E.S Project, Marc Morrow

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State Fair of TexasOut And About

DALLAS - The theme of the 126th annual State Fair of Texas was “Big and Bright” and featured an illuminated Chinese Lantern Festival. These aren’t your typical Chinese paper lanterns. Fairgoers enjoyed unique sights such as a 110-yard long dragon, panda bears, and other colorful structures. In addition to the new displays, visitors also enjoyed old favorites such as the 52-foot high Big Tex shouting his classic greeting of “Howdy Folks!” If your favorite part of the fair were the fried goodies, then you had a treat! I hope you tried this year’s Big Tex Choice Award for “Best Taste” which was deep-fried jambalaya. It’s the fifth time Chef Abel Gonzales has wowed the judges with his mouth-watering concoctions. If sweet treats are what you craved, I hope you tried Christi Erpillo’s deep-fried Girl Scout cookies. Or perhaps a few pieces of Sutter’s salt water taffy. Sutter’s is the oldest of the 200 food vendors at the fair and churns out over 8,000 pounds of taffy a day! If that didn’t impress you, maybe Brett Enright’s 80,000 pound grill truck did the trick. He says it’s the “biggest, baddest, awesomest cooking machine on the road.” The State Fair opened Friday, September 28, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. and ran through October 21, 2012. School was closed for Fair Day on Friday, October 5, 2012.


Campus Transportation

If the little engine could, then so can we.

AWB-FLA has begun its morning transportation/bus service for the 2012 – 2013 academic school year. The bus service provides continuous morning transportation to any AWB-FLA students dropped off between the times of 7:05 a.m. and 7:50 a.m. The bus service provides parents with an alternative to the morning car lines and FEP services. Parents who have multiple children that attend both campuses can also utilize this service to make dropping off easier. Shelter is provided to students in case of inclement weather days. There are

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. There are many events going on in our community as well as at our school. Below is a brief calendar of these events:

Booting Out Cancer Drive: Ongoing Drop a donation in the pink boots found in the front office of both campuses.

Community Mammography Outreach: Ongoing. Schedule a screening with the mobile mammography unit by calling 214-266-1694.

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure: Saturday, October 20, 2012 “Breast Cancer Reception for Women’s Health” Wednesday, October 24, 2012 - 10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Think Pink Day: Friday, October 26, 2012 EC Campus(Students will participate in events like the Pink Walk, Pink Jump, Pink Musical Chairs, and more!)

Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk: Friday-Sunday, November 2-4, 2012 The 3-Day Walk is a 60-mile walk over the course of 3 days. Walkers are asked to raise over $2,000 each in donations for breast cancer research and community programs. Please keep Ms. Marissa Moore (Pre-K teacher) in your thoughts, as she will be walking on a team for the first time this year in memory of her aunt.

Breast Cancer AwarenessBy: Marissa Moore, Staff Writer

Women’s Health

Shuttle Bus Servicealso two licensed adults on the bus at all times. Students riding the AWB-FLA buses can be dropped off at the Southeast corner of Red Bird Lane and Westmoreland Road.

Jayson Walton, Intermediate School Dean and Athletic Director, said the bus route is a needed service that was presented by AWB-FLA Principal Ms. Brown. He said many parents are pleased with the new system, the day-to-day operations of the transportation team and effectiveness of the program. The bus service can also be used for field trips and athletic events.

“Expansion of the transportation services will be decided by our school board in the future, but as for now, we’re grateful for what we have,” Walton said. “Anytime a component can be added to better serve the organization, it is always a great thing.”

Do you need a unique birthday or anniversary gift? Are you ready to start your Christmas shopping? We have an easy way to help you and it can be delivered to your front door! SchoolStore.com has gifts for all occasions, appliances, furniture, jewelry and various other house-hold goods. They partner with major stores such as Sears, JC Penny, Macy’s, Land’s End, and many more retailers and outlets, for your online or in-store shopping convenience.

Advertising

www.SchoolStore.com

Campus Initiatives

Dear Parents:Each year millions of people, including children, are without nutritious food and have no means of getting it. In the effort to combat this growing problem, - A.W. Brown-Fellowship Leadership Academy participates in the annual city-wide food drive hosted by Senator Royce West. We will be hosting the food drive until November 13, 2012. This year’s goal is to collect 4,500 pounds. In order to do so, we would like to petition your help by asking you to donate non-perishable food items to your child’s class. The most charitable class will win a pizza party, so please collaborate with your child’s teacher by donating any extra food items you may have. The smallest amount does make a difference. The collected items will be donated to the North Texas Food Bank. Thank you in advance for your support and commitment to making our school a wonderful educational institution and a community entity that gives back.- A.W.B.F.L.A. Student Council

Student Council Annual Food Drive

National Celebrations

Hispanic Heritage MonthBy: Micaela Titus, Staff Writer

Joyful laughter and Mariachi music could be heard down the halls of the intermediate campus as students learned about different cultures during Hispanic Heritage Month. Hispanic Heritage Month officially started in 1968 as a week-long event, but was increased to 30 days by President Ronald Reagan. The observation begins on September 15 and concludes on October 15. Our own awareness program started with morning announcements that were administered by numerous 7th grade students. Even though some students are still not keenly aware of Hispanic Heritage Month, many are aware of some of the traditions involved in the culture. Sixth grade Bryson Green said, “I do not know much about Hispanic Heritage Month, but I do know about their music and clothing. I really like the bright colors they

wear in traditional dances and they have great Mariachi music.” Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month teachers find different ways to incorporate cultural assignments in their classrooms to help increase cultural awareness for students. Sixth grade math and science teacher Dwain Thompson said, “Increasing cultural awareness through all subjects, even math and science, are important to the overall mission and goal of the school.” Hispanics have made major contributions to American culture through various arenas such as sports and food. Third grader Kynnedi Smith said, “I love Hispanic food, but especially Mexican food. Tacos and nachos are my favorite.” Hispanics have also made strides in politics and entertainment. In 2009, Sonia Sotomayor became the first Hispanic Supreme Court Justice. Desi Arnaz is best known for his music and his famous role as Ricky Ricardo in I Love Lucy. Whether it is through TV shows or music, Hispanic culture is part of our own American culture and history.

AWB-FLA Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.


During production time, we received sad news that the 60-year-old Big Tex memorial

suffered severe injuries from an electrical fire. Pictured to the right is a memorial laid out for him - including flowers, cards, fair

tickets, corndog and hamburger bouquets.Keep him in your prayers during this time.

Photo

by: M

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The object is to insert the numbers in the boxes to satisfy only one condition: each row, column and 3x3 box must contain the digits 1 through 9 exactly once. What could be simpler?

SuDoku with the Eagles

Raise you hand if you peeked at the answers?It’s OK, that’s what they’re here for, but next time try not to look!

Fall Fashionswith Micaela Titus

Beautiful Bombshell (Hooded Puffer Jacket, H&M, $29.95)

Crowd Pleaser (Faux Leopard Vest, Forever 21, $29.90)

Varsity Chic (Fleece Jacket, Karma Loop, $72)

Boy’s Fall Fashion

Girl’s Fall Fashion

Student Athlete (N98 Track Jacket, Nike, $70)

Prep Student (Knit Fabric with Elbow Patches, H&M,

$24.95)

Mr. Swag (Hooded Fleece Jacket, 77 Kids by American Eagle, $49.95)

Documents

The October 2012 Issue