Sue Gutierrez will be honored for her work in developing a "caring classroom" on Oct. 23 by the Healthy Communities and Healthy Youth Conference being held at the Marriott Convention Center.

Gutierrez, who teaches kindergarten at Graystone, is being recognized as a caring teacher by the Cornerstone program, providing students with 41 assets that children need to survive as adults—one of those assets is caring.

"Sue epitomizes that asset with an atmosphere that is structured but still loving," said Jerri Kazmierczak, principal. "She is there to support them."

Colleen Wilcox, Santa Clara County superintendent of education, will be one of the guest speakers.


Costco memberships benefit Simonds

For every new Costco membership, including executive and business memberships, the Simonds PTA will receive a $10 Costco gift card. Forms are available in the school office. The offer is available until Dec. 31.


Flamingo flock for band donations

Supporting the DartmouthMiddle School's concert band can be fun, funky, and one-footed. For a small donation that supports the band's various activities throughout the year, a flock of 40 flamingoes will land overnight on a lawn of your choice with your personal message.

For further information or to make flight arrangements, call 408.266.6948 or email smastersons@aol.com.


Halloween parade open to community

The community is invited to strap on their favorite pointed witch hat, plop their feet in a pair of floppy ol' clown shoes, or don whatever costume suits the mood and join students, parents, teachers and staff of Graystone for a Halloween parade. The parade will begin at 2:15 p.m. on Oct. 31, at the playground area.

"You can't believe how many people come out for this," said Jerri Kazmierczak, principal. "Parents take time off of work to come out. Grandparents, aunts and uncles come out. Many of the parents come in costume, too."


Annual Pumpkin Bust benefit at Graystone

Graystone Elementary will be hosting its annual Pumpkin Bust on Oct. 24, from 5 to 9 p.m. The Pumpkin Bust—which is an annual fundraiser—will feature fun, food and games. Tickets cost $10 for 30 tickets and can be purchased at the door, 6982 Shearwater Drive.