Parkside Happenings:
Here is a full and complete list of what we've been up to at Parkside.Parkside on the radio
Turn up the radio and listen for Alejandro Escovedo and others chatting & singing about Music Matters coming up THIS SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12, at 7pm. Tickets are still on sale online and at the school.
When & Where to Listen:
TODAY = Monday, 2/7 at 2pm on KUT
You can listen to a clip of Alejandro Escovedo on KUT here. Alejandro Escovedo KUT
TOMORROW = Tuesday, 2/ at 12noon at KGSR
FRIDAY = 2/11 at 10am on KUT
You can listen to a clip of Stephen & Robert on KUT here. Robert Bryce & Stephen Barber on KUT
Parkside on NBC
Parkside Community School, a Montessori school in Austin TX, was on NBC (KXAN). Joe Bruno was interviewed regarding the AISD school closings situation. The piece included footage of Primary and Lower Elementary.
Parent Intro Meetings
Parkside Community School Introductions
Parkside Community School, a Montessori school in Austin, is hosting Introduction sessions to give you some information about the programs we offer. If you have a child or children on our waiting list or are interested in learning about Montessori education in each 3 year cycle, please plan on attending one of these three Introductions.
At each Introduction, we will give you an overview of the program, including time to answer your questions. Please make childcare arrangements. These Introductions will be held on the Parkside campus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at (512) 472-2559.
January 25, 2010 (Tuesday) Primary Introduction 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Our Primary program is based on the premise of Maria Montessori’s observations of the young child from ages 3 to 6 (includes Kindergarten year). In response to the child’s natural instincts for learning, and their “absorbent minds”, our Primary classrooms are set up to “follow the child” as they explore their natural environment with respect to science, mathematics, practical life, social skills and language.
January 26, 2010 (Wednesday) Lower Elementary Introduction 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Our Early Elementary program, for children ages 6 to 9 (1st – 3rd grade), has strong academic, cultural and musical foundations. It uses Maria Montessori’s curriculum as the basis of it’s science, history and culture programs. We also emphasize the arts and performance in music as well as other artistic venues, giving the class balance between strong academics as well as self-expression.
January 27, 2010 (Thursday ) Upper Elementary Introduction 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Our Upper Elementary program for children ages 9 to 12 (4th – 6th grade) continues an emphasis on strong academics and cultural expression. We assist the children in their preparation for transition into other school environments, which includes test taking and the refining of academic skills, as well as an emphasis on writing and word comprehension.
Evening with Alejandro Escovedo
Celebration
For two decades, Parkside Community School, a Montessori school in Austin TX, has been providing the best in Montessori education to Austin families. In celebration of the school’s success, Parkside is hosting “Music Matters” at the Austin Music Hall featuring renowned Austin-based singer-songwriter Alejandro Escovedo, along with another Austinite, internationally renowned composer Stephen Barber and fellow Austinites, TOSCA STRINGS.
Proceeds from the event will benefit Parkside’s music and development programs. These programs include classical guitar, tuition assistance, classroom enhancements, teacher training and special workshops for our staff.
Join us for a fun evening as we remember the past and look into the future of Parkside Community School.
When and Where
DATE: Saturday, February 12, 2011
TIME: 7:00pm
LOCATION: Austin Music Hall
Evening Details
7:00 |
Doors Open for Reserved Seating ticket holders Silent Auction opens |
7:00 – 8:00 |
Music by Tosca Strings Musical arrangements by Stephen Barber |
7:00 – 8:30 |
Food Stations & Cash Bars open |
8:00 – 8:30 |
Robert Bryce: Parkside History |
8:30 |
Premiere of 20 Years of Parkside Film Food Stations Close |
8:45 |
Live Auction with Auctioneer Victoria Gutierrez Doors Open for Balcony Seating ticket holders |
9:15 |
Silent Auction closes & Silent Auction check out begins |
9:15 – 10:15 |
Performance by Alejandro Escovedo |
10:15 – 10:30 |
Auction check out continues |
Alejandro Escovedo
This evening’s event will feature Alejandro Escovedo. As a former Parkside parent, Escovedo was quick to lend his support. “I am deeply honored to be a part of this Parkside fundraiser.” he said. “My daughter, Maya, went to Parkside with Claire and Joe Bruno’s daughter, and my youngest, Amala, attended the Parkside School in Wimberley, Texas. My daughters’ time there was a rich and rewarding experience that will stay with them forever. We are very much all looking forward to a memorable evening.” Tickets may be purchased for only the Alejandro Escovedo concert (upper level seating only) for $19. Doors open at 8:45pm and show begins at 9:00pm. Click here to find out more about Alejandro Escovedo.
Stephen Barber
In addition to Escovedo, we will have the privilege of listening to internationally renowned composer Stephen Barber. Stephen’s two young sons are currently enrolled at Parkside Community School. As a newer parent, Parkside is thrilled by his willingness to support and participate in this evening’s event. Click here to find out more about Stephen Barber.
Tosca Strings
There will also be special musical presentations by fellow Austin Musicians of the TOSCA STRINGS. Click here to find out more about Tosca Strings.
Sponsorship Levels & Tickets
Who’s Invited? MUSIC MATTERS is open to all of Parkside’s families, alums, prospective families, faculty, staff and their families (adults only). In addition, the general public is invited and encouraged to attend. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling Shannon at Parkside (512) 472-2559. Tickets are non-refundable.
About Parkside Community School
Our History: In early 1991, preparation met opportunity in the form a dilapidated former meat-packing plant at 1701 Toomey Road. Where others saw only broken windows and derelict real estate, Joe and Claire Bruno could see a school.
With financial backing from Mary Ann Justman and Wayo Longoria, and commitments from a group of like-minded parents, the Brunos determined to make their vision a reality. Months of frenzied construction ensued. By September 3, 1991, the old meat-packing plant had been transformed and on that day Parkside Community School opened its doors for the first time with 75 children attending classes. Today, two decades later, Parkside has an enrollment of about 130 students, from three-year-olds to 6th graders. And rather than being the new kid in town, Parkside has matured into one of the oldest Montessori schools in Austin.
Since 1991, Parkside has been providing Montessori-based education that cultivates social skills and a strong sense of community through school-wide activities and outdoor experiences. From group movement and cultural celebrations to swimming in Barton Creek, Parkside strives for academic excellence as well as rich social experiences that nurture the child, the family and the community.
Joe Bruno hopes to build on the music program at Parkside waxing poetically that “music is the math we hear.” He’s continuously inspired by the many musically inclined families who are a part of the Parkside community as well as Austin’s music heroes whose children or relatives have attended the school including Shawn Colvin, Eliza Gilkyson, Sara Hickman, Asleep At The Wheels’ Ray Benson, and Escovedo.
Our Goal/Mission: Our goal is for each child to become an independent, self-reliant person with the skills necessary to achieve their goals while also contributing to society. Toward this end, we base our educational approach on the developmental philosophy and educational methods of Dr. Maria Montessori.
Music Matters Contributors
It takes a whole community to pull together such a wonderful evening. Thank you to everyone who contributed their time and energy so we can all celebrate together. Thank you for all the contributions to our live and silent auctions – there are so many great items. And thank you to those with monetary contributions – this a fundraiser after all!
Complimentary Eats provided by:
Anderson’s Coffee == coffee service
Barrie Cullinan/Amity Bakery == brioche rolls
Birds Nest Bakery == cupcakes
Judge’s Hill Restaurant == chipolte tomato bisque
La Traviata == lasagna bolognese
Salt & Time == artisan cured meats & pickles
Siena Ristorante Toscana == pate’ w/apricot rosemary compote
Waterloo IceHouse == beef & pork sliders
Whole Foods Culinary Center == salads & veggies
Primary Sing-A-Long
Wednesday – December 15th – 10:30-12:00
Our sweet and festive gathering for the primary parents and children is “The Primary Holiday Sing-A-Long” on Wednesday, December 15th from 10:30-12:00 pm. We will sing holiday songs to share with parents of primary children in the auditorium. After the caroling we will share tasty, seasonal treats and each other’s company. Please help us honor your primary child by limiting attendance to parents, grandparents, and only younger siblings.
If you would like to help provide holiday refreshments, please see our sign-up sheets on each classroom door.
The primary team looks forward to this intimate opportunity to share some holiday cheer with our esteemed primary families.
Cheers,
Toni, Lisa, Shannon, and Alison
Holiday Bazaar
Preview of Vendors:
SoA.P. (South Austin People) – Organic Hand-made Soaps, Lotions, Creams, Sprays
ColemanKelly - Locally Made Woodcraft: Bowls, Spoons, Chopping Blocks, Pendants
Money Academy - “Blast The Money Trap” Game & Personal Finance Freedom Kits
End of Year Events
Dear Parkside Families,
We have a little over two weeks left of school. Even though we are
approaching the holidays, I would like to remind all of you of the
importance of your child’s daily attendance at school and our school
day begins PROMPTLY at 8:30! Please try and arrive a bit early so
that your child has a few moments to settle before their day begins.
Events Through the End of the Year:
Wednesday, Dec. 1, Lower Elementary II Curriculum meeting – 6:30
Friday, Dec. 3, No School For The Children – Parent Conference Day
Childcare available in the auditorium during your conference time.
Arrive a bit early to settle your child into the auditorium before
your conference.
CULTURAL CHALLENGE – 10:30 to 11:30
Tuesday, Dec. 7, Lower Elementary I – Erica & Colleen
Wednesday, Dec. 8, Lower Elementary II – Camille & Deven
Thursday, Dec. 9, Upper Elementary – Melvin & Kathy
Friday, Dec. 10, LAST SIMPLE GIFTS OF THE YEAR! Please remember your
food for the food bank.
Wednesday, Dec. 15 – 10:30 – Primary Sing – a – long in the auditorium
Thursday, Dec. 16, Last Day of School (regular school day through
after school)
HOLIDAY BAZAAR IN COURTYARD AND SERENA ROOM – starting in the
morning, running through the school day
HOLIDAY SING – A LONG, 11:00 IN AUDITORIUM ALL WELCOME FOR SOME
HOLIDAY CHEER!!!!!!
Classes resume Tuesday, January 4th.
I think that covers it!
Interviews & Filming for Parkside Community School Video
Save The Date!
Sunday, December 5, 2010
In commemoration of Parkside’s upcoming 20th anniversary, we are producing a short video about the school. The video will feature interviews with Joe and Claire, and also with some of you who would like to share your stories and anecdotes about the impact your time at Parkside has had on your child, yourself, your family, etc.
In addition to interviews, the short film will also include footage of some of the incredible things that happen at our school like Simple Gifts, the Cultural Challenge, and the biannual camping trip.
With all of your help, we are hoping this video will serve to take Parkside into the next 20 years.
The video will be used for several purposes. For starters, it will debut at the incredible fundraising event on February 12 at Austin Music Hall featuring a concert by Alejandro Escovedo. Secondly, it will live on the Parkside website where it will be viewed by families interested in learning about the school. And finally, it will be an important tool helping educate the local media about the role Parkside has played (and will continue to play) in Austin’s incredible and diverse community of families.
Deb Lewis, an acclaimed Austin filmmaker and former Parkside Mom will film the interviews at Parkside on Sunday, December 5.
We invite anyone who would like to participate in this very important film to join us.
Please send an email Lisa Rice if you would like to be included, and I will write back to schedule a specific time slot. The interviews will be held at Parkside Community School.
Primary Parent Meeting
Parkside Community School, (a long standing Montessori School in Austin, TX) will be hosting a parent meeting regarding Nurturing Independence for the 3-6 year old.
Thursday, November 4th 6:30 – 8:00pm
Please make arrangements to attend our Primary Parent Meeting, November 4th 6:30-8:00pm. Both classes will meet together in PII in an open format to exchange ideas about characteristics of independence in the 3-6 year old, and to enlighten you about how we develop this important character trait within a Montessori primary classroom. Child care is not available so please make appropriate arrangements. Refreshments will be provided in case you must dash off and miss dinner.



