Thank you Duveneck!

With the help of everyone who donated books, volunteered to sell books, and baked sweets, we raised $838!  All proceeds and leftover books have been donated to 10books a home (www.10booksahome.org)

Over the next few months, we want to share the stories of our wonderful volunteers and what it means to them to be involved. Whether it’s chaperoning a field trip, delivering a meal or chairing a committee, we hope you’ll be inspired to have your own story.

I became involved in Working Wonders because I believe it’s important for my kids to participate in activities that don’t always revolve around them. The food, book and toy drives put on by WOW give parents an opportunity to talk to their kids about less fortunate people in our community. And they give kids an easy way to contribute!

It’s always worth my time to organize these events when I experience the over-the-top appreciation we get from our charities. I’m always impressed with how our students step up to sort and stock food at the Food Closet during our food drive. I had to drag my son in tears to his first visit to the Food Closet, but now it’s one of his favorite activities at Duveneck! If you’re intimidated about volunteering at Duveneck – don’t be! You’ll be welcomed with open arms while setting a great example for your kids and getting to know this wonderful community of parents.
– Jenny Dixon
(Grades 1, 3 and 5)

I joined Dragon Care when my son entered kindergarten almost three years ago. At that time, we were deciding on elementary schools, and I was introduced to a Duveneck mom who patiently chatted with me at Starbucks for over an hour even though we barely knew each other back then. This was the first of my many more wonderful experiences with the Duveneck community.

Signing up for Dragon Care is just a small way for me to give back, to help others during those difficult or busy times. I know many parents want to help beyond the classrooms but may not necessarily have the time to do so on a regular basis. If that’s the case, Dragon Care may be the perfect opportunity. You’ll be amazed at how a small gesture can help make someone’s day. It doesn’t matter if they are homemade or takeout dishes, and it’s not just about meal delivery–we are letting a family in need know that they are not alone. And this, ladies and gentlemen, is a great feeling. Come join us!
– Jackie Wong
(Kinder and Grade 2)

It’s that wonderful time of the year when we give thanks for the many blessings we have as a family and community.  It’s also the season of giving where we look for opportunities to help give back to those who could use a helping hand.  If you are interested in finding ways to volunteer your time or donate, there are numerous opportunities, both within Duveneck and across our broader community.  Check out some of them below.

Dragon Care

When: Year Round

To support our families when they are experiencing a major crisis (e.g. illness or death) or life event (e.g. birth or adoption) the PTA has created a group of Duveneck families that provides meals during these critical times. Caring parents can sign up to be called upon throughout the year.  Services include meals, carpooling, playdates, and errands as needed. Additionally, if you know of a family who could benefit from this outreach service please let us know so that we may reach out to help.

Please contact our Co-Chairs Heejong Park (parkhj_feb@yahoo.com) or Jackie Wong (jackiewongdmd@gmail.com) if you are interested in helping, know of a family who could use some assistance, or have specific questions.

WOW Book Drive

When: November 13 -17, 2017

Families can donate gently-used children’s and young adult’s books from home.  At the end of the week, students and families attend the Book Sale on campus to purchase these books. All proceeds go to support Ten Books a Home, a local non-profit that places books and mentors in the homes of East Palo Alto preschoolers.  It’s a wonderful way to recycle your books while helping to raise money for our community.

Please contact our Co-Chairs Emily Lee (emilylee@gmail.com) or Jenny Dixon (jenny.dixon05@gmail.com) if you have any questions.

Hello Duveneck parents,

Thank you for all of the book donations – we’ve almost filled the MP room stage!

Tomorrow/Thursday is the last day to donate books.

 We’re still looking for parent volunteers to run the Book Sale, to donate baked goods and to run the Bake Sale. Please sign up here: WOW Book and Bake Sale.

 On Friday, please send your child with money to purchase the books (50 cents for paperback and $1 for hardback) before school, during recess, and lunch. After school, books and baked goods will be on sale.

 All of our proceeds will go to Ten Books a Home, a local nonprofit that provides books and mentors to preschoolers in East Palo Alto.

Parents! Join some of the Site Council members for coffee and a chat this Friday, November 17 from 8:05-9:30.  This is a new event meant to be a casual get together every month to talk, answer questions and build our Duveneck Community. Questions? Suggestions? Contact dtschudy@pausd.org.