TOPS News Archive

This archive contains all news items that have appeared on the TOPS home page since August 1, 2002.

Summer Vacation

Summer vacation is here! Classes will resume on Wednesday, September 3. Have a safe and fun summer! (Posted 6/13/08)

Last Day of School

The last student day at TOPS is Tuesday, June 17. Classes will resume on Wednesday, September 3. Have a safe and fun summer! (Posted 6/13/08)

Site Council Meeting

The next Site Council meeting is Wednesday, June 11th, in the library. The 2008-2009 Friends of TOPS budget will be approved and next years Site Council will be seated and elect their Board of Directors at that meeting. All TOPS Community members are always welcome to come to the meetings and provide input. Contact Glen Tamura (gtamura@u.washington.edu) with questions. (Posted 6/11/08)

New Webmaster Needed

TOPS needs someone to take over the day-to-day operation of the TOPS Web Site. The youngest son of the current webmaster (Jack Lee) is graduating this year, and we need someone new to update posts on a regular basis. Someone who spends a lot of time on their computer would be a good candidate. Please contact Maureen Germani at 545-1771 or mwgermani@seattleschools.org if you want to volunteer yourself or you know someone else who might be interested. (Posted 6/11/08)

September Newsletter Deadline

The deadline for the September issue of TOPS News is August 1st. All submissions of articles and photos should be sent to topsnewsletter@gmail.com. (Posted 6/9/08)

Site Council Election

The election for Site Council Parent Representatives for the 2008-2009 school year will be held using a web-based system. The system is now available for you to vote. Voting will end at 6PM Monday, June 9th. See this page for candidate statements and instructions for voting. (Posted 6/6/08)

Spring Concert

Join us for the annual Spring Concert on Wednesday, May 28th, at 2 pm and 7 pm in the auditorium. (Posted 5/27/08)

Yearbook Deadline

You can order yearbooks online until May 31st. Click the button at the right, or go to www.jostens.com, or use the form available in the TOPS office. Preordering online makes Colette Hubbard’s job much easier and assures that one will be available for you. (Posted 5/27/08)

ArtFest

If you haven’t seen it yet, come check out the fantastic work our kids have done this year. Art will be on display for another week or so. A huge thanks to Nancy Hom, Luzita Roll and Cynthia Livek and all of their volunteers for the tremendous amount of work they did to put on such a beautiful display! (Posted 5/27/08)

No School Monday

TOPS will be closed on Monday, May 26, for the Memorial Day holiday. (Posted 5/21/08)

Auction Update

The TOPS auction was a great success! Great food, great fun, and incredible generosity from all of the families who attended. We grossed over $105,000 with $30,000 going straight to our special auction item “Complete a Classroom.” All 100 Golden Raffle tickets sold and lucky Missy Chow chose a week in the Molokai beach house. The winner of the raffle to the Methow Valley was Kathy Schmid. (Posted 5/21/08)

Early Dismissal Wednesday

On Wednesday, May 21, TOPS students will be dismissed two hours early for a professional development block time. (Posted 5/16/08)

Friends of TOPS Survey

Thank you for sharing your opinions with the Friends of TOPS Finance Committee. Eighty-five surveys were completed! They will be taken into account as we determine the 2008-2009 budget. Proposals will be discussed at the May 21st Site Council meeting and a final budget will be approved at the June 11th meeting. Everyone is welcome to attend the meetings and share in the discussion. Contact Maureen Germani at mwgermani@seattleschools.org with questions or comments. (Posted 5/15/08)

ArtFest

Please plan to attend our Annual ArtFest on Friday, May 16, from 5:30PM to 9PM. Luzita, Cynthia, and their team of volunteers always create an amazing display of student artwork. Come see what Luzita's and Cynthia's classes have created! (Posted 5/14/08)

Auction News

Thank you for helping to make the TOPS Auction a big success! We grossed over $105,000 to put towards the programs that help make TOPS so fabulous! Keep an eye out for the June newsletter article for all of the auction details. (Posted 5/7/08)

Friends of TOPS Finance Committee Wants Your Input

Last year, Friends of TOPS budgeted over $195,000 on programs to benefit the TOPS community. The Finance Committee has created the 1st Annual Program Evaluation Survey to solicit TOPS community members' opinions about these programs. Please follow this link to the survey and complete it by May 14th. The Committee will take your opinions into account when we decide which programs to fund in 2008-2009. Hard copies are also available in the office. If you have any questions about the survey, please contact Maureen Germani at mwgermani@seattleschools.org. Thank you! (Posted 5/2/08)

Site Council Meeting

The next Site Council meeting is Wednesday, May 21st, in the library. The 2008-2009 Friends of TOPS budget will be the major topics of discussion. The final budget will be approved at the June 11th meeting. All TOPS Community members are always welcome to come to the meetings and provide input. Contact Glen Tamura with questions. (Updated 4/28/08)

The TOPS Auction is This Saturday, May 3rd!

Go to the TOPS auction page for general information, or to tops.maestroweb.com to view the online catalog. Thank you for all of the wonderful donations! Contact Janet Morrison with any auction questions at janetm@blarg.net or 634-2203. Contact Kathy Wickward with any registration questions at wickward@raincity.com or 323-4278. (Posted 4/28/08)

Site Council Meeting

Elementary Play

Kindergartners through 5th graders will perform a musical version of Homer’s Odyssey on May 16th and 17th at 7:00 (Posted 4/27/08)

Summer Programs

There's still time to sign up for summer camps, but don't wait too long. Check out the summer programs offered at TOPS, including basketball and interactive gaming with Eric Herndon (new!), Math, Chinese, Art4Kids, KidsCo, Musical Theatre, and Lego. (Updated 4/22/08)

WASL Testing Continues to May 2nd

See the schedule for grade-by-grade details. Remember not to schedule appointments for days your child is scheduled to be tested. Make sure your student is well rested and eats a good breakfast. (Posted 4/21/08)

"Data Night" with Site Council -- Updated Schedule

In lieu of a separate State of the School presentation this year, TOPS staff have been presenting about different aspects of the TOPS program to recent Site Council meetings. At the next Site Council meeting (April 16, 5:00-7:00pm in the TOPS Library), Assistant Principal Gerrit Kischner will lead a discussion of the variety of data the informs our decision-making process on instructional and program decisions, from WASL scores to demographic data. The meeting begins at 5:00, the data portion will begin by 6:00, and the whole thing should end by 7:00. This is an opportunity to learn about what the numbers are, their significance, and to engage in a discussion with administration, staff, and fellow parents. All Site Council meetings are open and public, and parents are encouraged to attend. (Updated 4/16/08)

TOPS Auction Procurement Deadline Extended

The auction procurement deadline has been extended to Friday, April 18th! Go to the TOPS auction page for general information, or to tops.maestroweb.com to view the catalog and make a donation. Invitations are in the mail! RSVP to Kathy Wickward by April 18th. Contact Janet Morrison with any donation questions at janetm@blarg.net or 634-2203. (Posted 4/10/08)

WASL Testing Begins April 14th

Remember not to schedule appointments for days your child is scheduled to be tested. Make sure your student is well rested and eats a good breakfast. See the schedule for grade-by-grade details. Testing ends on May 2nd. (Posted 4/10/08)

April 16 is "Data Night" with Site Council

In lieu of a separate State of the School presentation this year, TOPS staff have been presenting about different aspects of the TOPS program to recent Site Council meetings. At the next Site Council meeting (April 16, 6:00-8:00pm in the TOPS Library), Assistant Principal Gerrit Kischner will lead a discussion of the variety of data the informs our decision-making process on instructional and program decisions, from WASL scores to demographic data. This is an opportunity to learn about what the numbers are, their significance, and to engage in a discussion with administration, staff, and fellow parents. All Site Council meetings are open and public, and parents are encouraged to attend. (Posted 4/10/08)

Site Council RFP Available

The annual Request for Proposals (RFP) for Site Council funding is now available. Site Council, through the money raised by Friends of TOPS (FOT), helps fund curriculum enhancements and community-building programs. In 2008-2009, about $140,000 will be allocated by the Finance Committee via the RFP process. If you have an idea you’d like to see started or a current program continued for next year, submit your proposal. All proposals will be considered. Completed forms are due April 24. If you have any questions, contact Cliff Shettler at sshettler@msn.com or 525-0067. Examples of last year’s RFPs are available here. (Posted 4/10/08)

Class Pictures on May 8th

Don Zemke will be taking class photos on Thursday, May 8th. You don’t want to miss that! Contact Don with questions: dwzemke@seattleschools.org. (Posted 4/10/08)

Spring Landscape Work Party

Come join the fun on Saturday April 19th from 9am to 12pm. Honor Earth Day and work with students, parents and friends as we mulch, weed and plant a memorial tree. High School service hours will be given. All helpers young and old are encouraged to volunteer to celebrate our TOPS community and Earth Day. Brought to you by the Stewardship Committee. Questions? Contact Molly LaPatra (206-789-7160, lapatra@comcast.net) or Sandy Shettler (206-525-0067, sshettler@msn.com). (Posted 4/9/08)

Sports Photos

Don Zemke has provided lots of great basketball, soccer, and volleyball photos. See also the 2008 game schedules for varsity and JV girls' volleyball, ultimate frisbee, and boys' soccer. (Updated 4/4/08)

Elementary Play Auditions

This year's elementary play will be a musical comedy version of Homer's Odyssey. Auditions will be held Monday and Tuesday, April 7th and 8th during the school day. Any 3rd - 5th grade students that want to try out should bring this signed permission slip. A sample portion of the script is here if your student wants to practice for tryouts. (Posted 3/29/08)

Sports Photos

Don Zemke has provided lots of great basketball and soccer photos. See also the 2008 game schedules for varsity and JV girls' volleyball, ultimate frisbee, and boys' soccer. (Posted 3/29/08)

The TOPS Auction is now online!

Go to the TOPS auction page for general information, or to tops.maestroweb.com to view the catalog and make a donation. The auction procurement deadline is Monday, April 7th. Spend time over the break to procure some great donations! Donation delivery deadline is April 18th. Invitations are in the mail! RSVP to Kathy Wickward by April 18th. Contact Janet Morrison with any donation questions at janetm@blarg.net or 634-2203. (Posted 3/27/08)

Spring Break

TOPS will be closed during the week of March 31-April 4 for spring break. Enjoy! (Posted 3/21/08)

Summer Programs

It's time to start thinking about summer. Check out the summer programs offered at TOPS, including Math & Chinese, Art4Kids, KidsCo, Musical Theatre Camp, and more. (Updated 3/21/08)

Site Council Meeting

The TOPS Site Council will meet Wednesday evening, March 19, from 5:00 to 7:00 in the TOPS Library. Here's the agenda. Attendance at Site Council meetings is open to all. (Posted 3/18/08)

No School Friday

TOPS will be closed on Friday, March 21, for a professional development day. (Posted 3/17/08)

Game Schedules

The 2008 game schedules have been posted for varsity and JV girls' volleyball, ultimate frisbee, and boys' soccer. (Posted 3/16/08)

Photos from the Middle School Dance

TOPS photographer Don Zemke has posted the photos from the February 8th middle school dance. Enjoy! (Posted 3/11/08)

Planning a Party or Event at TOPS?

Sandy Shettler has prepared a list of green guidelines for those planning TOPS events. Our goal is to significantly reduce the amount of trash generated at TOPS events. (Posted 3/6/08)

Summer Programs

It's time to start thinking about summer. Check out our summer programs, including Math & Chinese, Art4Kids, KidsCo, and more. (Posted 3/5/08)

Early Dismissal Wednesday

Wednesday, March 5th, is a Professional Development Day. School will be dismissed two hours early, at 1:20pm. (Posted 2/7/08)

Boys' Soccer

TOPS middle school boys' soccer practices will be Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5:00 at Rogers Field, starting Wednesday, Feb 27th. Games will be on Saturday mornings beginning in mid-March. (Posted 2/25/08)

Site Council Meeting

The TOPS Site Council will meet Wednesday evening, February 13, from 5:00 to 7:00 in the TOPS Library. Here's the agenda. Attendance at Site Council meetings is open to all. (Posted 2/13/08)

Mid-Winter Break

TOPS will be closed Monday, Feb. 18, for Presidents' Day, and then Tuesday through Friday, Feb. 19-22, for Mid-Winter Break. Enjoy! (Posted 2/13/08)

Two Ski Bus Make-Up Days Have Been Scheduled

There will be two extra middle school ski bus days on Friday, March 7, and Friday, March 14, to make up for the missed ski days on February 1 and 8. Skiers will follow the same evening schedule as on regular Friday ski bus days, including lessons. (Posted 2/13/08)

Eric's Spring Break Camps

This spring break (March 31-April 4), TOPS P.E. teacher, basketball coach, and gaming enthusiast Eric Herndon will sponsor a basketball and an interactive gaming camp. Here's more information and a sign-up sheet, due March 20. (Posted 2/11/08)

Ski Bus Make-Up Day

There will be an extra middle school ski bus on Friday, March 7, to make up for the missed ski day on February 1. Another day will be scheduled soon to make up for February 8. Skiers will follow the same evening schedule as on regular Friday ski bus days, including lessons. (Updated 2/5/08)

Ski Bus is Postponed

The February 8th ski bus has been postponed due to extreme winter weather conditions. Snoqualmie Pass remains open, but the weather is too unpredictable, so the Ski Bus is unfortunately once again postponed. Gear that is currently at school should go home, as we do not ski again until March 7th which is after Mid-Winter Break. If this afternoon is not a convenient time to collect ski gear, it can remain locked in the closets at school over the weekend but should be taken home early next week as it will be in our janitors’ way. A makeup date will be set so please stay tuned for that info. (Updated 2/8/08)

Ski Bus is Cancelled!

We're sorry to say that the ski bus for Friday, February 8, has been cancelled because the highway up to Snoqualmie Pass is too snowy, and the risk of further closures is too high. Another makeup date will be posted soon. (Posted 2/8/08)

Ski Bus is Tentatively On for Friday

Snoqualmie Pass is open and the bus company is confident about making the trip at this time. The ski bus organizers are going to talk again at 10am to reassess the situation with daylight on our side but for right now we are planning to go. Bring your ski gear to school and hope for the best. Further announcements will be posted here if the situation changes. (Posted 2/8/08)

Ski Bus Make-Up Day

There will be an extra middle school ski bus on Friday, March 7, to make up for the missed ski day on February 1. Skiers will follow the same evening schedule as on regular Friday ski bus days, including lessons. (Posted 2/5/08)

TOPS Movie Night

Friday, February 8th, 6:00 to 9:00 pm in the TOPS Library: the Coalition for Social Justice (CSJ) presents Class Dismissed: How TV Frames the Working Class. Based on the forthcoming book by Pepi Leistyna, Class Dismissed navigates the steady stream of narrow working class representations from American television’s beginnings to today’s sitcoms, reality shows, police dramas, and daytime talk shows. Doors open at 6:00 pm; film will begin at 6:30. The film is 45 minutes and there will be time for discussion following the film. Come when you can. Sandwiches, snacks, drinks and of course popcorn will be served Childcare provided by Kids Company, age appropriate movie and pizza provided -- to reserve childcare, call 252-3510. (Posted 2/1/08)

Friday Ski Bus is Canceled

The ski bus for Friday, February 1, is canceled due to weather -- Snoqualmie pass is closed because of avalanches. Who ever thought skiing would be canceled because of too much snow? (Posted 1/31/08)

You Can Still Order TOPS Yearbooks Online

The deadline for ordering personalized yearbooks has passed, but you can still order an unpersonalized one. Click the button at the right, or go to www.jostens.com, or use the form available in the TOPS office. (Posted 1/31/08)

Early Dismissal Wednesday

On Wednesday, February 6, TOPS students will be dismissed two hours early (at 1:20) for a professional development block time. (Posted 1/30/08)

Registration Deadline for the Family Ski Weekend

The Cedars Inn reservation deadline for the Feb 20-24 weekend ski trip to Mission Ridge is February 6. Here's more information. (Posted 1/30/08)

Ski Bus is On Today!

The bus company has confirmed that the all-day ski bus scheduled for Monday, Jan 28, will run as planned. The freeways are relatively clear and buses will chain up at the pass as they have done all month. Be at TOPS at 9:00 with your equipment. Don Zemke will be at the gym at 8:45am for those needing their lost and found items from last Friday’s ski bus. It should be a great day with the fresh snow! If buses aren’t there when you arrive, please don’t park in their spots on Boylston. Buses will be back at TOPS at 6pm. Please don’t be late for pick-up. (Posted 1/28/08)

Taste of TOPS March 13

This year's Taste of TOPS will be Thursday, March 13th, 2008, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. (not March 20th as mentioned in the Jan 17 go-home). This year’s theme will honor the culture of East Africa. There will be a potluck in the cafeteria and a number of events to educate and entertain will be presented throughout the school. The Annual TOPS Talent Showcase will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Gym. Look in the Go Home for when forms to sign up for the talent show will be available and due. You won’t want to miss this very special annual TOPS event! (Posted 1/26/08)

Order Yearbooks Online

The deadline for ordering your personalized yearbook online has been extended to January 30. Click the button at the right or go to www.jostens.com. After the 30th, unpersonalized yearbooks can still be ordered via the form available in the office. (Posted 1/26/08)

No School Monday ... Again

TOPS will be closed on Monday, January 28, for the day between semesters. There will be an all-day ski bus for middle schoolers that day. (Posted 1/22/08)

No School Monday

Seattle Public Schools will be closed on Monday, January 21, in recognition of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday. (Posted 1/15/08)

Site Council Meeting Wednesday

The next TOPS Site Council meeting will be Wednesday, January 16, 5:00-7:00pm in the library. Here's the agenda. Attendance at Site Council meetings is open to all. (Posted 1/14/08)

Knitting and Crocheting TOPIC

If you have knitting or crocheting skills, please join us this Wednesday from 1:00-3:00 to help teach our TOPIC. Each child will knit or crochet a square which will then be sewn together to make a blanket or a scarf to donate to local children in need. The class will be in C103 - Kristina Stoneberg's classroom. Bring yarn and needles to share, or just yourself! (Posted 1/8/08)

TOPS Movie Night

This coming Friday, January 11, at 6:00-9:00 pm in the TOPS Library: the Coalition for Social Justice (CSJ) presents TOPS Movie Night with special guest Pamala Trivedi. Pamala Trivedi will present the results of her research on bi-racial children at TOPS and beyond. Doors open at 6:00 pm and films will be shown at 6:30. There will be time for discussion following the films. The evening will end by 9:00. (Posted 1/7/08)

How to Teach a TOPIC

Have you always wanted to teach a TOPIC but didn’t know how to start? Have you taught a TOPIC but felt like it could have gone better with a few pointers? Are you a TOPIC veteran and want to sit in a room with novices and share your expertise? Please join us for this informative session on Tuesday, January 8 from 5-6 p.m. in C104 (Sarah’s classroom). Fourth and Fifth graders are also welcome to attend. Call or email Kristina with questions: 206.252.3569 or klstoneberg@seattleschools.org. (Posted 1/1/08)

Non-Fiction Matters

Do you want to help improve your child’s reading skills? Kristina Stoneberg will offer a class entitled ‘Non-fiction Matters: How to Read Non-Fiction and Love It!’ It will be in the TOPS Library on Monday, January 14, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. The class is aimed at adults, childcare may be offered through Kids Co. Contact Kristina Stoneberg (1st grade teacher) at klstoneberg@seattleschools.org or leave her a message at 252-3510 with questions and especially if you need childcare. (Posted 1/1/08)

TOPS Jerseys

New TOPS soccer-style jerseys are available for ordering: $15 each, except $20 for size XXL. They are available in youth & adult sizes. The color is TOPS blue. You can add up to 12 letters of personalization on the back of each jersey in place of the TOPS logo. Take a peek at the TOPS jerseys hanging in the window of the TOPS office. Use this order form; orders are due by January 30. (Posted 12/20/07)

Early Dismissal Friday

On Friday, December 21, TOPS students will be dismissed one hour early, at 2:20pm. (Posted 12/16/07)

Winter Break

Seattle Public Schools will be closed for Winter Break from Monday, December 24, through Friday, January 4. Classes resume on Monday, January 7. Happy holidays to all! (Posted 12/16/07)

Photos From the Icebreaker Dance

Once again, Don Zemke has posted photos from the latest middle school dance, on December 7. Here they are: set 1 and set 2. (Posted 12/13/07)

Winter Wishes for TOPS Families

The "Winter Wishes" display board is located in the main office hallway and the "Winter Wishes" clipboard is in the TOPS office on the main desk. On the display board you will see Hearts, Stars, Teddy Bears and Apple tags. If you are interested in sponsoring a child/parent or would like to adopt an entire family please make sure to read the instructions posted on the board. Please return item(s) to the TOPS Office by Friday, December 14th (it is essential that the tag accompany wrapped gifts). See this flyer for details. If you have any questions, please contact Daphne Jones, Family Support Worker at 252-3529 or Sheri Toussaint 252-3510. Thank you in advance for supporting our TOPS families. (Posted 12/11/07)

Site Council Meeting

The next Site Council meeting will be Wednesday evening, December 12, 5-7pm in the library. Here is the agenda. Attendance at Site Council meetings is open to all. (Posted 12/8/07)

To Kill a Mockingbird

The TOPS Middle School will present Harper Lee’s classic To Kill a Mockingbird on Friday December 14th and Saturday December 15th at 7:00 (there will be no matinee). The play presents powerful themes, students will be discussing it in class and a set of discussion points will be sent home during the week. It is recommended for students in 4th grade and up. Come support the drama program at TOPS and show your appreciation for the cast’s hard work! (Posted 12/8/07)

Kindergarten Chinese Starts Soon!

Xiao Yu Jackson is back with her popular after-school Mandarin Chinese program for Kindergarteners. Classes meet on Thursdays and begin on January 10th. Click here for an application. (Posted 11/30/07)

Food Drive and Winter Wishes

The annual TOPS Food Drive and Winter Wishes Collection has begun! Contact Catrice Dennis at 206 325-3510 to help. See this flyer for details. Contact Family Support Worker, Daphne Jones, at 206 252-3529 by November 28th if your family is in need of a food basket or gifts for the holidays. (Posted 11/21/07)

Middle School Dance--Time Change

The TOPS Student Council is pleased to announce the second middle school dance of the year on Friday, December 7th. The times for this dance will be 7:00 to 9:30, a slight change from recent years for this dance only so that the members of the Inspire Choir can compete that same evening in the Figgy Pudding Choir Contest (yeah TOPS!). Parents please be sure to pick your child and guests up promptly at 9:30 (and the set-up/clean-up crew by 9:45) out of respect for the staff who stay late to chaperone these events. (Posted 11/21/07)

TOPS Young Playwrights at ACT

On December 10, 2007, at 6:30, at ACT in the Falls Theatre, there will be a celebration of student work for the 2007 Young Playwrights Program. TOPS has 12 sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students participating in the program this year under the expert tutelage of Todd Moore. The celebration includes scenes from student work read by professional actors, a guest speaker, usually very inspirational, music and food. At the end of the program, the announcement of which young playwrights will have their play performed at ACT's Young Playwright Festival in the spring.(Posted 11/21/07)

Winter Concert --Time Change

The winter concert by choir and instrumental students will be held on Tuesday, December 11th, at 10:00 am in the gym. All parents are invited (as usual, there will not be an evening performance for this first concert of the year, but there will be an evening concert in the spring, on May 31st). (Posted 11/21/07)

Order Yearbooks Online

The best way to order a yearbook is to go online at www.jostens.com. This saves loads of work for our yearbook staff in the spring and also is the ONLY way you can get a personalized book with all of the extras. The deadline for ordering online is January 18th 2008. After the 18th, unpersonalized yearbooks can still be ordered via the form available in the office. (Posted 11/21/07)

Early Dismissal Wednesday

On Wednesday, November 21, TOPS students will be dismissed one hour early, at 2:20pm (not 1:10 like Monday and Tuesday). (Posted 11/18/07)

Thanksgiving Holiday

TOPS will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 22 & 23. Happy Thanksgiving! (Posted 11/18/07)

Ski/Snowboard Program Update

Here's a letter from the coordinator, with important new information about ski rentals and season passes. For general information about the program, go to the Ski/Snowboard page. (Posted 11/14/07)

Parent-Sponsored All School Family Ski Weekend

This year's weekend ski trip to Mission Ridge will be February 20th through 24th, 2008, the 2nd weekend of midwinter break. Here's more information. (Posted 11/9/07)

Early Dismissal for Conferences

On November 13th through 20th, TOPS students will be dismissed at 1:10pm for school conferences. (Updated 11/8/07)

Thank you TOPS Fall Work Party Volunteers

The Stewardship Committee wanted to let the TOPS community know that we had a GREAT work party last Saturday! We had 88+ volunteers from 40 TOPS families and had all four huge piles of mulch spread by 2pm! Thank you so much to each of you for all of your help in our efforts to keep TOPS looking its best. If you get a chance to stop by school, please marvel at what our community accomplished by working together. If you are interested in leading ongoing stewardship activities in your child's classroom, please contact your teacher as they are eager to have volunteers lead activities and also watch for an opportunity to lead an EARTH DAY / STEWARDSHIP TOPIC in APRIL. Thank you again to all of our enthusiastic volunteers -- Let's do it again in the spring!!! Jim, Sandy, Ellen and Molly - Fall Coordinators. (Posted 11/7/07)

No School Monday

TOPS will be closed on Monday, November 12, for Veteran's Day. (Posted 11/7/07)

Early Dismissal for Conferences

On November 13th through 20th, TOPS students will be dismissed two hours early (at 1:20pm) for school conferences. (Posted 11/7/07)

Photos from the Halloween Dance

Don Zemke has posted a collection of photos from the Oct 26 middle school dance. (Posted 11/5/07)

Open House Review 2007

This year we tried something different and scheduled an Open House for all grades on a single night. We would love to hear your opinion of the new format! Please respond to this online survey to let us know what you think. (Hard copies are available in the main office if you would prefer). So far, we have
received approximately 60 responses to the survey. We would like to have more. (Updated 10/25/07)

Ski Bus Meeting and Swap/Sale

Middle School families: save the date! The required parent/student ski bus meeting will be Wednesday, November 7th, 7-9pm, in the gym. Forms, signups, video presentation, ski swap/sale. Please bring gently used equipment and clothing. Contact Molly LaPatra (lapatra@comcast.net) with questions. (Posted 10/25/07)

TOPS No Bake Annual Fund Drive

You should have received your No Bake mailing last week. Don’t let it get stale! Our goal is $85,000 and 100% participation. Here's more information. Support all of the wonderful programs we have at TOPS: Donate to the No Bake! (Posted 10/25/07)

Conferences

School conferences are scheduled from November 13th to 20th. Many of you signed up for a time at Open House (did you write it on your calendar?!). If you haven’t yet scheduled your conference and your child is in K-5, you should contact your child’s teacher directly. If your child is in Middle School you can call the office at 252-3510 to schedule. Also note that November 13th-20th will be early dismissal days because of the conferences. (Posted 10/25/07)

State of the School Committee

Site Council has traditionally hosted a "State of the School Meeting" every year. Site Council is creating a committee to examine the best way to keep the school community informed of the current status of TOPS from all perspectives, including academic achievement, school climate, and staff and parental satisfaction. Possibilities including reformatting the current "State of the School Meeting," presenting regularly monthly data reports outlining various aspects of the current state, focused curriculum meetings, and/or a Site Council hosted social event. If you are interested in serving on this committee, please contact Karen Stuhldreher or Gerrit Kischner. (Posted 10/25/07)

Opening for a new Site Council Member

There will be a special election in December to fill an unexpected opening for a Middle School Grade Band Representative on the TOPS Site Council. If you are interested in fulfilling this important role, please contact Site Council President Glen Tamura (gtamura@u.washington.edu or 323-2354). (Posted 10/25/07)

Site Council Meeting

The next Site Council meeting will be held Wednesday November 14th from 5-7 in the library. Everyone is welcome to attend. Contact Glen Tamura (gtamura@u.washington.edu or 323-2354) with questions. (Posted 10/25/07)

TOPS Fall Landscape Family Work Party

Please join us Saturday, November 3rd from 9am until 4pm -- we will be weeding and heavily mulching the grounds of TOPS School to break the cycle of weed germination and to help with water retention for our poor, thirsty, trampled plants. Everyone, K - 8 and graduates, is needed and welcomed. Please RSVP via email to one of us (Jim McDonald, Sandy Shettler, Ellen Levi, or Molly LaPatra) to let us know your timeframe and number of family members attending. Here is more information. (Posted 10/24/07)

TOPS Chinese Language and Culture Class

Spaces are still available! Apply now! The TOPS Chinese Language and Culture program provides after-school Chinese language instruction that is fun and developmentally-appropriate. Pollyanna Wang will be teaching the Grade 1-2 and 3-5 class. Xiao Yu Jackson will continue teaching the Kindergarten class, which starts in January 2008. Registration is on a first come, first served basis. (Updated 10/19/07)

After School Sports Update

5th - 8th grade after school volleyball will start Tuesday, Nov. 27th (not the 17th as previously announced). Also, there will be no Circus Arts on Monday, Nov. 19th. (Posted 10/18/07)

Elementary Math Curriculum Resources

Everyday Mathematics, the K-5 curriculum adopted by Seattle Public Schools,has online resources available for parents and families. (Posted 10/17/07)

Site Council Meeting

The October site council meeting will be Wednesday, October 17, not October 10 as originally announced in the Go-Home. (Posted 10/9/07)

Open House Review 2007

This year we tried something different and scheduled an Open House for all grades on a single night. We'd like to know how it went for parents? Please respond to this online survey by Thursday, October 11th (hard copies are available in the main office if you would prefer). Thank you. (Updated 10/9/07)

Math Olympiad Club

During the 2007-2008 academic year, there will be an after-school Math Olympiad club for 3rd through 6th grade students. Applications are due by Friday, October 19. (Updated 10/9/07)

It's Español Time Again! The Spanish Program at TOPS

The Spanish Language and Culture program begins this year the week of October 22 and is open to students in grades 1-8. The cost is $275.00 per student for 40 classes of instruction (45 minutes twice a week for 20 weeks). Depending on available funding, partial scholarships may be available. Registration forms are available on the Spanish web page and in the TOPS go-home. Applications are due by Friday, October 12. (Updated 10/9/07)

No School Friday

There will be no school in Friday, October 12, due to a professional development day. (Posted 10/7/07)

Open House Review 2007

This year we tried something different and scheduled an Open House for all grades on a single night. We'd like to know how it went for parents? Please respond to this online survey by Tuesday, October 11th (hard copies are available in the main office if you would prefer). Thank you. (Posted 10/3/07)

TOPS Chinese Language and Culture Class

The TOPS Chinese Language and Culture program provides after-school Chinese language instruction that is fun and developmentally-appropriate. Pollyanna Wang will be teaching the Grade 1-2 and 3-5 class. Xiao Yu Jackson will continue teaching the Kindergarten class, which starts in January 2008. Applications are due by October 18th. (Posted 10/2/07)

TOPS Open House

All TOPS families are invited to our Open House on Tuesday, October 2nd, from 6 to 8 pm. This is the first year that we are hosting all grade levels on one night. Come together as a way of finding out about plans and routines for the year, meeting other families, connecting with TOPS programs such as the Site Council, the CARE program, CSJ, and music as well as the work your child is doing this year in all the subject areas. Please be on the look-out for specific plans from your child's teacher for his or her grade level. In addition, some grades are scheduling detailed presentations. (Posted 9/27/07)

TOPS Movie Night

The Coalition for Social Justice will present two short, entertaining and informative films about family diversity: That’s A Family and It’s Elementary. Friday, October 5th, 6:00- 9:00 p.m. in the TOPS Library. (Posted 9/27/07)

Math Olympiad Club

During the 2007-2008 academic year, there will be an after-school Math Olympiad club for 3rd through 6th grade students (Posted 9/27/07)

Ultimate Frisbee

The game schedule for Fall Ultimate Frisbee has been posted. (Posted 9/26/07)

8th Grade Math Enrichment Classes

For 8th graders who like math and would like to learn some new and more challenging mathematical ideas, TOPS offers after-school math enrichment classes once a week. There will be an information meeting for interested students and parents on Monday, September 24, 7pm in Mr. Ellis's room, and signups are due Wednesday, September 26. Classes star the week of October 1. Here is an information flyer, and here is a signup form. (Posted 9/18/07)

It's Español Time Again! The Spanish Program at TOPS

Welcome Back to School!

TOPS classes resume on Wednesday, September 5. Welcome back, everyone! (Posted 9/4/07)

TOPS Newsletter Online

Each month, the TOPS newsletter will be posted on this website, usually a few days before it arrives in your mailboxes at home. Check the "quick links" on the right-hand side of the home page for the latest issue, or go to the newsletter page to see back issues. (Posted 9/4/07)

Ultimate Frisbee

TOPS Ultimate Frisbee practices begin on Tuesday, September 11. There is a signup meeting on Thursday, September 6th at 12:00 in the gym. Here is more information. (Posted 9/4/07)

After School Sports

TOPS After School Sports will begin on Monday, September 17th. Here is more information. (Posted 9/4/07)

Pianoforte Program

The Pianoforte Program at TOPS offers after-school extracurricular piano lessons. The program has openings for individual piano lessons for a student at any level. Here is more information. (Posted 9/4/07)

Supply Lists

Supply lists have now been posted for all TOPS classes (except kindergarten and Special Ed). Click on your class button above to download a copy of the list for your class. (Posted 7/30/07)

Click here for the 2006-2007 archive.