Hillview PTO

Saturday 5/1 Keplers Day - approx. 11:30-12:30 (let your coaches know about this NOW!)

Wednesday 5/26 Spring Concert 7-8:30 (NOTE:We are trying to secure the M-A PAC for this event.  If we do, there will be an admission charge.  If you have concerns about this, please e-mail me) 

Friday 6/11 Graduation Band 9-10AM Rehearsal, 4:30-7PM Ceremony

Wednesday 6/16 Giants Anthem Performance (Voluntary - but lotsa FUN!)

DISNEYLAND TOUR Jan 7-9, 2011 ( I need parents to help me organize this, if interested, e-mail me)

Thoughts on Band - In the coming months there is going to be a lot of discussion regarding next year's schedule and how the fiscal crisis will impact the program.  Right off, if the Parcel Tax doesn't pass, expect there to be significant changes in the elementary program.  Whether these will reach up into the Hillview program is anyone's guess.  But the implications are ominous.  I would implore all of you to keep up to date on this.  As you are all aware, Arts tend to be the first things cut when money dries up.  If you can think of ways to help promote the Arts and the Hillview Music program in the community, please let me know.

GRADING CHANGES- This semester, I am going to be creating a series of technical benchmarks that students need to master as part of the overall grading process.  I will using a grading program called SmartMusic to help with this.  Look for more information in the coming weeks on this program and how it can also be used in the home as a practicing tool.  It is a really, really incredible piece of software. 

COMMUNITY EVENTS - I am consulting with the City of Menlo Park and La Entrada's Music Director to put on a summer concert in Fremont Park.  This would be a community wide event with a single rehearsal to prepare and then perform.  I see it as a way to show the community what our kids are doing and encourage anyone who has played in the past to pull out their instrument and join in the fun.  If you would like to help me organize this, shoot me an e-mail.

As always, thank you for the opportunity to teach your children.

Mr. Vaughan