ligon link · ligon link - august 2014 1 ligon link ligon gt magnet middle school 706 e. lenoir...
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Ligon Link - August 2014 1
Ligon LinkLigon GT Magnet Middle School 706 E. Lenoir Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
919.856.7929 ligon.wcpss.net www.ligonpta.com
It is my pleasure to welcome each of
you back for the 201415 school
year. We eagerly anticipate another
wonderful, exciting, and productive
school year. For our incoming sixth
and our new seventh and eighth
grade arrivals, I extend a special
welcome to our wonderful Ligon
Family.
Please hold us accountable for
ensuring that your child is
challenged academically and
nurtured as a whole child. Keep our
teachers and counselors informed if
you need our support in any way.
If you have not already, be sure to
register for the Homebase
PowerSchools Parent Portal to
monitor your child’s academic
progress. This is important
information, particularly for our
students transitioning from
elementary school and accustomed
to receiving a “Friday Folder” with
grades. The Parent Portal will
provide you updated information for
your review. It is updated twice a
month. Additionally, teachers'
webpages include valuable
instructional information and
resources. Saturday phone messages
provide weekly updates from our
school calendar. I would love to see
you at my Principal’s Coffees.
During those coffees I will provide
school updates and provide parents
the opportunity to give feedback.
See the below agenda and dates for
the 2014 Principal's Coffees:
October 10 – Safety
(bullying/lockdown
procedures/overall safety)
November 14 – Middle School Math
(Ms. Zukowski, middle school math
administrator)
I hope everyone has enjoyed the
summer! The new school year is
beginning and I want to welcome
our new families and our returning
families to Ligon! Ligon celebrated
its 60th anniversary this spring and
our school's tradition of excellence
continues.
The Ligon PTA plays a vital role in
Ligon's success. Our vision is to
make every child’s potential a
reality and our mission is to be a
powerful voice for all children, a
relevant resource for families and
communities, and a strong advocate
for the education and wellbeing of
every child. We achieve this by
raising money, sponsoring guest
speakers, organizing banquets,
recruiting volunteers, and
supporting our teachers in the
classroom, among other ways.
OrientationInto the Blue
Wednesday Aug. 20th
8:30 AM to 12 PM
New to the Blue
(7th & 8th Grades)
1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Auditorium(Haywood St. entrance)
ContentsWelcome from the Principal 1Welcome from
the PTA President 1Important Dates 2Orientation Info 3School Tours 3Staying Connected 4Visitor SignIn System 4Grade Welcomes 5Student Directory 5Membership 5PTA, LAB, & LSB 6Understanding Fundraising 6Phantom Fundraiser 7Ligon Band 7Community Funding 8PTA Checklist 8Reflections Contest 8Past President 9Carpool Information 10Bus Information 10Ligon Clubs 11Ligon Sports Boosters 11PTA Budget 13List of Art Classes 13Ligon Arts Boosters 14PTA Officers 14PTA Signup Form 15
Welcome from the Principal
Welcome from the PTA President
(Continued on page 2)
(Continued on page 2)
Ligon Link - August 20142
Important Dates(Remember to consult the calendar on the
school website for any changes!)
8/20 Into the Blue 8:30 AM to
12:00 PM
8/20 New to the Blue Orientation
1:30 3:30 PM
8/25 First Day of School
9/1 No School Labor Day
9/5 Early Release
9/11 Open House 5:30 8:00 PM
9/25 Teacher Workday
10/17 Early Release
10/28 End of 1st Quarter
10/29 Teacher Workday
11/7 Early Release
11/11 No School Veterans' Day
11/26 11/28 No School
Thanksgiving
12/22 to 1/1 Winter Break
1/2 Teacher Workday
1/16 End of 2nd Quarter
1/19 No School MLK Day
December 5 – Internet Safety (Attorney General’s
Office)
February 6 Differentiation/AIG (school level AIG
specialists)
April 10 – EOG Testing/Expectations(Telea Newkirk,
Ligon’s testing coordinator)
Parents, we still desperately need and welcome your
support and involvement. Please join and support our
PTA. Their efforts have been instrumental in our
teacher retention efforts at Ligon as well as our efforts
to improve our technology in our school community.
Also, support our Ligon Arts Boosters (LAB) and Ligon
Sports Boosters (LSB) as well. If you are new to Ligon
and have never attended one of our plays or
performances, please come out and see the “magic
happen.” Our productions are great and LAB supports
us greatly by purchasing costumes, scripts, etc. LSB
needs your help as well to encourage our student
athletes. As much as we need you in these areas, we
also need your support in volunteering at school. We
would love to have parental support with providing
copying and clerical support for our teachers. If you
can assist us with this initiative, please email Linda
Link, our lead secretary at [email protected]. We also
need consistent volunteers in the media center as well
as student support. We continue to need you so
definitely signup to volunteer at Ligon!
I say this annually, but I mean it. Parents, make a
commitment to come support our arts programs (band,
dance, orchestra, play, arts), academic competitions, or
sports as our students love to see you there! Wear your
Ligon Spiritwear and support our school. We need
your support!
I am excited for another wonderful year together!
Gretta Dula
Principal
Everyone knows that school resources have been stretched to the limit.
Your support of the Ligon PTA can help fill the gap. Become a PTA member
for only $10. Give generously to the Phantom Fundraiser, our annual
event where 100% of proceeds go directly to Ligon. Even shopping can
raise money for our school if you link your stores' “customer MVP” cards
to Ligon. See our “Community Funding” article for details.
Ligon PTA is fortunate to have fantastic PTA leaders and volunteers but
there are always opportunities to pitch in. Consider becoming a volunteer!
It doesn't matter how much time you have to give or where your talents
lie, there is a role for you at Ligon. I encourage you to sign up on our
volunteer page at http://www.ligonpta.com/volunteer. If you're looking to
contribute more we have leadership roles available. Either way, you'll be
glad you did: It feels great to volunteer and we can't do it without you.
I am excited about the new year and all we will accomplish together. I also
want to hear your ideas about how we can become even better. It's
through our partnership that we will achieve excellence. Let's make it
happen for Ligon!
Mark Turner
PTA President, 20142015
919.421.4513
Welcome from the Principal (continued)
Welcome from the PTA President (continued)
(Continued on page 3)
Ligon Link - August 2014 3
1/20 Teacher Workday
2/13 Early Release
3/6 Early Release
3/20 End of 3rd Quarter
4/3 No School Good Friday
4/17 Early Release
5/25 No School Memorial Day
6/8 Last Day of School
Early Release DatesStudents are dismissed at 11:45 AM
Fri. Sep 5, Fri. Oct 17, Fri. Nov 7, Fri. Feb 13, Fri. Mar 6,
Fri. Apr 17
Ligon Dances (Students only)Sponsored by Ligon Student Council
After school until 4:45 PM in the Ligon Gym
New Rule: If a student is picked up after 5:15 they will not be
allowed to go to the next dance
Cost: $5 per person
Concessions available for purchase. Pick up is on
Haywood Street at the Arts Wing Entrance
Dates: Fri. Sept 19; Fri. Oct 31; Fri. Dec 12; Fri. Feb 20,
2015; Fri. Apr 24, 2015
Ligon PTA Meetings7:30 AM in the Ligon Media Center
You're invited. Please join us!
Wed. Sept 17, Wed. Oct 8,
Wed. Nov 12, Wed. Jan 14,
Wed. Mar 18, Wed. May 20
Principal's Coffees7:30am Ligon Media Center
Ms. Dula invites all parents to come for coffee and
conversation. Sponsored by the Ligon PTA
Fri. Oct 10, Fri. Nov 14, Fri. Dec 5, Fri. Feb 6, Fri. Apr
10
Eighth Grade Events8th Grade families and Ligon staff coordinate with
assistance of PTA
8th Grade Dance date TBD
8th Grade Picnic Mon. June 8 for lunch
Other DatesLigon Fest Fri. June 5
6th Grade Awards Thu. June 4
7th and 8th Grade Awards Mon. June 8 810 AM
Honor Roll Celebrations May 1214
OrientationWednesday, August 20, 2014Auditorium
For all NEW 6th grade students
The Into the Blue Orientation will be held from 9:00
AM until 12:00 PM. Parents and students are asked to
begin arriving at 8:30 AM. This event will focus on
important information for parents that will help them
with the transition to middle school. The students will
participate in team building activities, school tours and
walk their schedules.
For NEW rising 7th and 8th grade students
The New to the Blue Orientation will also be held from
1:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. This event will include
information on Daily Operations, School Expectations
(dress code, behavior, lunch, hallway transitions),
Transportation and much more. Students will tour the
grade level hallway and get a chance to meet grade
level staff.
Student Volunteers from National Junior Honor Society,
Ligon Student Council, and Ligon Quad A and friends
will meet with Mrs. Douglas on Friday, August 15, 2014
from 12 2 PM to set up for Into the Blue. Parents and
students will be called and/or emailed during the
summer about the time of the setup/practice.
If you have any questions, please contact Pamela
Douglas6th Grade Counselor at [email protected]
or 919.856.7950.
Please join us on a school tour!Tours are every Thursday at 9:00 AM starting on October 2 through December 11 and January 8 through
February 5. Open House is January 15 and will have 2 sessions of tours! Please go to Ligon’s website for tour
signup information (http://ligon.wcpss.net) or contact Donna Laiosa, Magnet Coordinator, at 919.856.2942.
Important Dates (continued)
Ligon Link - August 20144
Say Goodbye To Those Weekly FoldersHere Is How Parents Stay Connected At Ligon
Weekly phone message from the school officeParents/guardians are automatically in the system (i.e. no need to sign up). If you are not receiving messages,
call 919.856.7929.
Ligon e-NewsPTA will send a digest of announcements for parents to your inbox each week. You can sign up for Ligon eNews
by visiting the Ligon PTA website: http://www.ligonpta.com/mailinglist.
Ligon WebsiteA feast of all things Ligon. The school has updated the website over the summer. Check it out, bookmark it, and
visit regularly at ligon.wcpss.net. The calendar is regularly updated and is a great resource.
Bulletin BoardFrom high tech to low tech PTA maintains a bulletin board that is outside the front office and is updated weekly.
Student DirectoryThe Student Directory is put together by the PTA and available on the LigonPTA website. Due to privacy rules, you
must provide information between Aug 4 and Sept 12 to be included. Visit the PTA website
http://www.ligonpta.com or click on the PTA tab of the Ligon website and follow the instructions. The process is
quick, simple, and can be done from any computer including those in the Ligon Media Center and in any public
library.
And how to keep tabs on what is happening in your child's classes
Student Agendas and Interim reportsAgendas (Planners) are strongly recommended for each student. Ligon’s customized agendas will be for sale for
$5.00 each. The Student Handbook will be incorporated into this year’s agenda. You can purchase the agenda at
Into The Blue (8/20), from your homeroom teacher, from student services, or at Open House (9/11). We
encourage you to make this purchase for your child to foster good study habits and to record all homework
assignments, projects and tests. Teachers send home interim reports with detailed lists of assignments and grades
in the middle of each quarter, which allows time for intervention (if needed) before report cards are issued.
Blackboard & SchoolnotesVisit the staff directory on the Ligon website. There you can find links to teachers’ websites, blackboard, or
schoolnotes websites that many teachers use to publish information for each of their classes.
Home Base/Power School Parent PortalHome Base is a statewide student information system
that gives parents and students access to realtime
information including attendance, grades and
assignments. Application for Access must be completed
either through Hand Delivery at the School (photo ID
required) or through Notary. If you download the Notary
Form, it must be notarized before bringing it to the
school. No access will be granted if this is not done.
All forms can be found on the WCPSS website
at http://www.wcpss.net/parents/homebase/
New Visitor Sign-in System
Visiting Ligon? The school's new signin
system requires visitors to provide a valid
drivers license which will be scanned on the
first visit. On future visits, your name will
automatically come up and to verify your
identity you will simply type in your
birthdate.
Please remember to bring a drivers license as
you will NOT be able to register without it!
Ligon Link - August 2014 5
7th GradersCongratulations and welcome to 7th grade! We are
very excited to work with you and your student next
year. To help communicate with all of our parents as a
grade level, we ask that you use the following link,
http://bit.ly/RG3M13, so we have a working email
address to send you various updates before and during
the school year. Have a great summer and we look
forward to seeing you this fall. Thanks for your
support!
6th GradersWe want to extend a special welcome to our new 6th
graders and those of you who are firsttime middle
school parents. Middle school is a very special time
and will go by very quickly. It is necessary that we
work together to provide a quality educational
experience for our students. We strongly believe that
students are most successful when parents are involved
in their child’s/children’s education. We look forward
to meeting all of you on the first day of school.
8th GradersCongratulations and welcome to 8th grade! One of the 8th grade team’s priorities is to keep in contact with
parents and one of the best ways to do this is by email. Each year, we create a team email list so that parents
can receive updates and other important information. In order to provide you with information before the
school year starts (like school supply lists & more!), we are asking that you email [email protected] in order to
join the list. Please include your child’s name in the subject line and in the body of the email, include any other
email addresses that you would like added to the list. Thanks and we look forward to teaching your child next
year!
Student DirectoryHey, kids and parents, you have to sign up to be
included in the School Directory!
Go online and enter your contact information. Student
directories are a GREAT resource for students and
families. However, you must submit your information
in order for it to appear in the directory.
Simply go to www.ligonpta.com or click on the PTA tab
on the Ligon website http://ligon.wcpss.net between
Aug 4th and Sept 12th. You can also use the school’s
computers in the Media center.
Under school system policy, school directories are
permissible only if parents provide the contact
information directly to the PTA. Participation is purely
voluntary. The Ligon PTA publishes this school
directory online solely as a resource for Ligon students
and parent volunteers. Use of this directory for
commercial, political, or other purposes is strictly
prohibited.
PTA Membership
When you join the Ligon Parent Teacher Association –
dues are only $10you also automatically become a
member of both the state and national PTA, the
largest child advocacy organization in the country.
You are also playing an active role in providing the
best learning environment possible for our Ligon
students. PTA funds are a crucial way to "fill in the
gaps" left by shrinking state budgets.
To join, simply fill out the form included in this
newsletter, and mail it with your check to Ligon
Middle School, 706 E. Lenoir St., Raleigh, NC 27601.
Or, you can fill out a form at Into the Blue, Ligon's
orientation program for new students, on August 20,
or online at http://www.ligonpta.com/membership.
Questions? Please contact Heather Koons, PTA
membership chair, at [email protected] or
919.848.6128. Here's to a great new year at our great
school!
Student Supply ListsStudent supply lists can be found on the front page of the Ligon Website: http://ligon.wcpss.net/
Ligon Link - August 20146
Short Answer: Three groups with threespecialties = one FABULOUS middleschool. Most of us choose to support allthree!
PTAThe PTA has a mission that is likely familiar to you
from elementary school. We are affiliated with the
state and national organizations that you know well.
Our role around the school is deep and wide:
hospitality, supporting elective classes with supplies
like fencing, archery and robotics equipment,
Reflections national art contest, book fair, special
projects such as funding an iPad Learning Lab at Ligon,
coordinating teacher and staff appreciation and
student recognition events. The list is diverse but the
goal is always to support students, teachers, staff and
parents in making Ligon a great place to work and
learn.
Ligon Arts BoostersLigon Arts Boosters (LAB) contribute to the arts
education for all Ligon art students. Whether your
student takes one art class or years of the arts, that
student will benefit from LAB's efforts. Our efforts
support quality art supplies, costumes, drama scripts,
set materials, dance shoes, sheet music, and
instrument repair. LAB strives to make possible the
purchase of bigticket items such as musical
instruments, kilns, and audio equipment.
LAB offers field trip scholarships so all students have a
chance to participate in these exciting, educational
trips.
Ligon Sports BoostersThe Ligon Sports Boosters (LSB) provides the
opportunity for everyone (students, siblings, parents,
grandparents) to purchase and proudly wear our very
cool Ligon Spirit Wear. In addition to funds raised
through Ligon Spirit Wear sales, LSB raises additional
funds through concession sales at home sporting
events and through our very successful sports
membership drive throughout the year. We wrap up
our annual fundraising by supporting all the fun at the
annual Ligon Fest. Come show your school spirit and
join us for exciting sports events all year long!
Understanding School FundraisingSchool fundraising can seem much more confusing at the middle and high school level. Unlike an elementary
school where there is typically only one parent group, suddenly there are multiple groups raising funds for
different purposes.
Did you know that under Wake County School Board policy, the school itself is limited to only one fundraising
activity/year? Money goes directly to Ligon for needs identified by the administration.
Did you know that parent groups at schools are not subject to this limitation? As a result, schools do rely on
parents to meet many needs. At Ligon, there are 3 different parent groups (PTA, Ligon Arts Boosters, and Ligon
Sports Boosters.) Each of these groups is a separate nonprofit organization that raises money to further its
unique mission at Ligon. You can read about these groups to understand both how funds are raised for each
one and how the money is used at Ligon. All three groups are important and support our community. Think
about how many great opportunities there are for kids at Ligon, and do your best to support all three groups
generously. They each make important contributions.
Additionally, please be aware that the Ligon Student Council raises money that is donated to various charities
outside of the school. Last year they raised money for the SPCA.
PTA? LSB? LAB?
Why are there three separate parent groups?
Ligon Link - August 2014 7
Ligon’s Annual Phantom Fall Fundraiser!
The Ligon PTA’s largest fundraiser begins August 20th and we need your help. At Ligon, we do not ask our
parents and students to sell items or raffle tickets to raise money – we just ask our parents and community to
write one check. This fundraiser funds important classroom and educational initiatives at Ligon. Our school
depends on the PTA to provide excellence in education, a unique cultural arts program and community support.
Due to recent state budget cuts, the Ligon administration and staff is being asked to do more with less.
Some needs for this year include:•Critical technology needs and upgrades, such as supplying iPads for enhanced education opportunities
•Staff development programs
•Enhancing elective offerings
As you consider your taxdeductible contributions this year, we hope you will consider making a contribution to
help your child’s school. Please send in checks made out to Ligon PTA and mail to ATTN: Ligon PTA, Ligon
Middle School, 706 East Lenoir Street, Raleigh, NC 27601. We will also be at the open house on September 11th
so you can make your donation then. You may also donate online at http://www.ligonpta.com.
With your support, we can continue to build on Ligon Excellence and make 20142015 a great year!
Why Join Band?There are so many wonderful reasons to join the band. Having the skill to perform a musical instrument has
been one of the most cherished accomplishments throughout history. Students who decide to learn to play an
instrument can use this skill and knowledge for the rest of their lives. There is nothing like the joy of performing
music with friends. It happens every day in school groups and continues for adults who still like to play in
community bands and orchestras or for those who perform professionally. In all cases, performing music can be
an exhilarating experience.
Aside from the obvious benefits of playing a musical instrument, there are a number of surprising academic
benefits to students who study music. Students who take lessons on an instrument at a young age stimulate the
brain in a unique way. Studies have shown that learning to play an instrument enhances a student’s academic
performance in math, language arts, foreign language and other academic areas. Even standardized test scores
such as the SAT are higher among musicians.
Whatever the reason, playing an instrument can bring joy and fulfillment like no other activity. The most
common remark from parents following a wonderful school concert is, “I wish my parents would have
encouraged me to play an instrument and stick with it.”
Take a few minutes and check out the Ligon Band Web Site: https://sites.google.com/site/ligongtmiddlebands/
If you have questions contact Ligon Band Director Renee Todd at [email protected] or complete the Google doc.
On August 20th at 12:00 noon there will be a new to band rental meeting in the band room for
any students who have enrolled in a beginning band class for the 20142015 school year. Any
Ligon student that would like to sign up for Beginning Band or Intermediate Band that has not
already done so, please fill out the Google doc below (this link is also on the Ligon Web Site):
http://is.gd/ligonbandsignup
Ligon Link - August 20148
Ligon PTA Checklistfor Parents
• Complete and return the PTA form:
join PTA & donate to the PTA Phantom
Fundraiser
• Input your contact information for
our School Directory by visiting the
Ligon PTA website (www.ligonpta.com)
between Aug 4 and Sept 12.
• Sign up for weekly Ligon enews
messages for parents at
http://www.ligonpta.com/mailinglist
• Call 919.856.7929 if you are not
receiving the weekly phone master
message from Ligon on Saturdays.
• Relink your shopping cards: Harris
Teeter 3875 Target 81079 Food
Lion 213566
• Send in your stash of Box Tops and
Labels for Education
• Generously support Ligon Arts
Boosters and Ligon Sports Boosters
Your child needs YOU
to be involved at Ligon!
Volunteer opportunities at Ligon are numerous, and there
are jobs to fit every schedule. You can help out with a one
timeonly event or volunteer on a regular
basis. You can come to school or work
from home.
Please fill out this online form:
http://www.ligonpta.com/volunteer
Together we can make difference!
Community FundingContribute To Your School –Without
Spending an Extra Penny!In addition to Membership and Phantom contributions,
Ligon depends on Community Fundraising to support
our programs and activities. Every bit helps, and these
are easy ways you can help. All it takes is a few
minutes to link cards, and cut out box tops.
Box Tops for EducationLigon earns 10 cents for each box top from Pillsbury
and General Mills products. Simply save your box tops
and send in with your child. We will have a box in the
main office to collect. If each child sent in 5 box tops
each week, we would earn $20,000 for Ligon!
Labels for EducationLigon also free educational equipment in exchange for
labels for various products from brands such as
Cambell’s and Post.
These corporate programs provide significant
contributions to Ligon and don’t cost an extra penny,
so please take 5 minutes today to link your cards and
start saving Box Tops!
Link to StoresHarris Teeter: 3875 Remember you must relink
each year. You can link at the store, or online
http://www.harristeeter.com/community/together_in_
education/link_to_your_school.aspx
Target: 81079 “Take Charge of Education”: Many of
you have or may decide to get a Target “Redcard” to
receive 5% off all Target purchases. If so, you can link
your card to receive $ for Ligon either online or by
calling 18003166142.
Food Lion: 213566 Register your MVP card:
http://www.foodlionmvprewards.com/mvp_
registration/cardno.php
Office Depot: 70062124
Reflections ContestThe 20142015 PTA reflections contest theme is "The world would be a
better place if...". The Ligon submissions are not due until November
but if you would like to get started over the summer the categories are
Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition,
Photography, Visual Arts and Special Artists. Last year Ligon had a
student who won at the National Level.
http://ncpta.org/index.php/programs/reflectionsartsprogram/
Microwaves for student useDue to school health guidelines, microwaves for student use
will not be available during student lunch periods. Please plan
student lunches accordingly.
Ligon Link - August 2014 9
As the immediate past president of the Ligon PTA, I
wanted to keep you posted on what the PTA
accomplished during the 2013/2014 school year. But
before I do, I wanted to let everyone know how quickly
the last three years have passed. It is hard to believe
that my son is starting High School. My son will be
attending the Southeast Raleigh High School
Engineering Academy. I want to thank all of the
teachers and staff at Ligon for preparing him for this
academically challenging path. Without the high
quality staff at Ligon and strong leadership of Ms. Dula
he would not be prepared for this challenge. Southeast
Raleigh High School has a new Principal and I am
excited about working with Ms. Jones. She has the
vision and leadership needed to prepare him for
college. I love Wake County Public Schools.
The PTA fundraising focus during the 2013/14 school
year was Teacher Appreciation. For the foreseeable
future we do not expect the difficult Teacher Retention
situation to change.
Our Accomplishments 2013/2014:
• 60th Anniversary Celebration
• Book Fair raised $800 for the Media Center
• Box Tops raised over $1,000 from Box Tops
• Provided Teachers with classroom Startup Funds
• Provided new Lights for the Stage
• Paid for our Wake County Teacher of the Year Mr.
Todd to attend the Teacher of the Year Banquet
• Provided flowers for the front of the school
• Provided guest speakers and lunch for Ms. Dula’s
monthly Principal’s Lunch series
• Provided volunteers and Supplies for Into the Blue
• Provided funds and volunteers for Recruiting events
• Published and mailed the Ligon Summer Newsletter
• Sponsored several parent educations seminars –
parent drug information, internet safety and school
success
• Added Teacher Appreciation to at least one event per
month
• Hosted a Daily Event during Teacher Appreciation
Week
• Provided food and volunteers for teacher Back to
School Breakfast, Career Day Lunch, Bus Driver
Appreciation, and End of Year Teacher Banquet
• Provided Raffle Prizes for the End of Year Teacher
Banquet
• Provided Refreshments for Ms. Dula’s Principals’
Coffee
• Provided food, invitations, certificates and volunteers
for Student Recognition
• Coordinated and funded Ligon submissions for the
State PTA Reflections competition
• Collected information, funded and distributed
Student Directory
• Provided Volunteer support for Teachers
• Provided supplies, clothing, mentoring, tutoring and
field trip scholarships for needy students
• PTA Volunteers joined the School Improvement
Committee
• Provided new TV’s in Classrooms with broken TV’s
• Provided Elective Class Supplies and Equipment
• Provided Car Pool Coordination
• Supported Ligon’s efforts to include Special Needs
Students in all events
Our Parents and Community Partners made all of this
happen through the generous volunteering of time,
generous financial contributions to our fundraiser, by
clipping box tops and linking loyalty cards, by sending
in donations of food and supplies that help keep our
program expenses low, and with thoughtful spending
by all Ligon PTA committees. THANK YOU for making
it possible for our students and teachers to have access
to tools that engage and motivate a wide range of
learners. There is more work to be done but our
community has much to be proud of on this team
effort.
Vickie Adamson
Past President Ligon PTA
20132014
Message from the Outgoing PTA President
This newsletter was created using the open source desktop publishing tool Scribus, available at www.scribus.net.
Ligon Link - August 201410
Ligon Carpool GuidelinesDo You Drive to Ligon? Follow these 3 rules to keep our line moving & our kids safe
1. When there are cars behind you in the loop, please pull as far forward as possible before you stop your car (see
point C below).
2. Once your car is stopped along the sidewalk (anywhere between points A and C), students should exit the car.
Please remind your students of this rule and resist any lobbying from your passengers to wait until they are close
to the door (point B) to exit. Many cars need to pass through the loop. Fifteen cars unloading at once moves
much faster than only a few at a time unloading next to the front door!
3. Please do not make a
left turn as you exit the
loop during carpool.*
Instead continue straight
across Lenoir Street and go
one block north to Davie
Street where you can easily
and safely turn left. Even one
car waiting at the traffic light
to turn left creates gridlock.
Our goal is to make carpool
as safe and efficient as
possible. THANK YOU for
helping make it happen.
* It is illegal to make a left turn at the light from 6:457:45 AM and 2:152:45 PM. There is a sign posted on school property and this will
be enforced.
Need a Carpool?The PTA sponsors an annual carpool list, early in the school year. To participate, submit via email: your name,
child’s name & grade, your complete mailing and email address, home & cell phone number and a point of
reference to where you are located.
Once the list is compiled, all those participating will receive the completed list. From there, personal carpool
arrangements can be made, usually by midSeptember. As well, forms will be available (for those who do not
prefer email) and can be submitted to the main office. Your Ligon PTA contact person is Bernadette Benas at
(Continued on page 12)
Bus serviceParents, if your student is new to the school, eligible for bus service, and plans to ride the school bus, you must
fill out this form: http://www.wcpss.net/parents/transportation/busrider/
Note that if your student is currently riding the bus you do not need to fill out the form.
More transportation information, including Ligon bus routes, may be found here:
http://www.wcpss.net/parents/transportation/
Ligon Link - August 2014 11
National Junior Honor SocietyStudents who are highachieving in their academics
and who have a desire to serve their school and
community can join NJHS by applying in the spring of
each year. This club is for seventh and eighth grade
students.
Wednesday 2:203:20 Ms. Yarborough
Future Cities TeamA national, projectbased learning experience where
students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade imagine, design,
and build cities of the future. Students must take
Future Cities I to be considered for the team. They then
can apply to be on the team.
Elective 3rd period Beth Healy
MathCountsStrong math skills & a desire to make them stronger
Tuesday, Wednesday 2:30 4:00 Jason Wilson, Kim Li
QUAD A-African American AcademicAchievers & FriendsThis group is designed to support our African American
AG students throughout the school year. The new 6th
graders are invited to attend and will receive a phone
call from Mrs. Douglas at the beginning of the school
year. Students must be AG students/ motivated to do
service learning projects and work in other leadership
areas.
Friday Elective Class periodssome afterschool Pamela Douglas
Quiz BowlThere will be an informational meeting at the start of
the school year. All grade levels welcome
To be determined 2:304:00 Maureen Brooks
TWELVEA scholastic competition. 12 students tackle 12 topics
with 12 questions each. There will be an informational
meeting at the start of the school year. Teacher
recommendation will be required. 12 students total
To be determined 2:304:00 Maureen Brooks
Ladies of DistinctionGirls are recommended by counselors and teachers.
Girls are generally selected because they are not
involved in lots of activities in schools and it gives them
a way to connect to school and be a part of a group or
club at Ligon. We teach money management, etiquette,
setting career and academic goals. We also take college
tours, have guest speakers and complete community
service.
Wednesday 2:304:30 Telea Newkirk, Kathy Barnes
Student CouncilIt is an elective and students need to submit an
application
Elective currently 6th period Beyman
Chess ClubAll are welcome to join. Email [email protected]
for details!
Monday 2:30 4:30
Ligon Sports Boosters
The Ligon Sports Boosters (LSB) is the parent
supported organization dedicated to the athletic
program at Ligon GT Magnet Middle School.
Our mission is to provide volunteer and financial
support to all sports programs at Ligon. Our funds help
to buy new uniforms, replace equipment, and provide
transportation for teams.
The Sports Boosters also helps the less fortunate
families with support and or assists with needed
equipment to play on or tryout for Athletic Teams. The
LSB feel “No child should ever be left out or not have
an equal opportunity to play for LMS.” In the past the
LSB have provided shoes, shorts, warm ups and many
other equipment to Ligon students.
The LSB shall support, encourage and advance the
athletic program and related activities of Ligon GT
Magnet Middle School and thereby cultivate
wholesome school spirit, promote good sportsmanship,
Ligon ClubsThere's something for everyone with Ligon's clubs!
Below each club description is when the club meets as well as its faculty sponsor.
(continued on next page)
Ligon Link - August 201412
Ligon Sports BoostersThe Ligon Sports Boosters (LSB) is the parentsupported organization dedicated to the athletic program at Ligon
GT Magnet Middle School.
Your Name ____________________________________ Spouse’s Name _________________________
Home ph # _______________________________ Your Wk. # __________________________________
Spouse’s Wk# ____________________
Your Email: __________________________________ Spouse’s Email ___________________________
Address ________________________________________ City ____________ Zip __________
Student's Name ________________________________________ Grade __________
Home Room Teacher ________________________________________
I want to join the Ligon Sports Boosters at the following Level:
Memberships:
Gold: All Sports passes for immediate family members (6 max) $50
Silver: All Sports passes for three (3) family members $30
Little Blues: All Sports passes for two (2) family members $25
Student: All Sports passes for one (1) Individual $15
*Each allsports pass is issued to a specific individual and is not transferable. Passes are good for all regular
home games in all sports for the entire school year.
Please make checks payable to Ligon Sports Boosters and return to:
Ligon Sports Boosters
c/o Membership Director
706 E. Lenoir Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
Additional ways you can help! Please check the following activities in which you would be willing to participate:
__ Concessions __ Fundraising (membership raffles, etc)
__ Communications __ Team Representative (1 needed for each sport)
__ Donation Solicitor __ Board Member
and develop character and high ideals.
LSB shall promote projects to improve facilities and
equipment necessary to provide an adequate athletic
program for Ligon GT Magnet Middle School.
LSB shall not seek to influence or direct technical
activities or policies of the school administration or of
the school officials who are charged with responsibility
of conducting the athletic program of the schools of the
school district.
We encourage the family, friends, and neighbors of
Ligon students to become members of LSB.
To order Ligon Sportswear go online at
https://johnsonlambe.itemorder.com/
SALE CODE: LMSSPIRIT13
Ligon wear makes great practice wear, and what better
way to support your athlete than cheering from the
stands in your wonderful Ligon apparel.
If you have questions or want more information, please
contact Melissa Rouse: Ligon Sports Boosters President
GO LITTLE BLUES!!
Sincerely,
Melissa Rouse
President, Ligon Sports Boosters
Ligon Sports Boosters (continued)
Ligon Link - August 2014 13
Proposed PTA Budget for 2014-2015
DanceBallet I
Choreography/Improv
Contemporary Jazz
Jazz I
Creative Dance (prerequisite any
level I dance class)
Modern Dance I
Tap I
Tap II (prerequisite Tap I)
Tapestry (yearlong; audition
required)
Ligon Dance Company (yearlong;
audition required)
Body Wellness
ZumbAtomic!
Drama6th Grade Scenes
Acting I
Best of Broadway
Improvisation
Puppets with a Purpose
Costumes, Props & Makeup
Intro to Theater
Technical Theater
Applause (semester; audition
required)
Encore: Drama Production (year
long; audition required)
MusicApprentice Chorus (semester; 6th
graders only)
Honors Chorus (yearlong; audition
required)
Vocal Ensemble (yearlong; audition
required)
Beginning BandBrass (yearlong)
Beginning BandWinds/Percussion
(yearlong)
Intermediate Band (yearlong)
Symphonic Band (yearlong)
Concert Band (yearlong; audition
required)
Jazz Band (yearlong; audition
required)
Apprentice Strings (yearlong;
beginner)
Ligon Philharmonic (yearlong;
audition or teacher recommendation
required)
Silver Strings (yearlong; audition
required)
Guitar
Piano I
Visual ArtsDrawing I
Drawing II (prerequisite: Drawing I)
Painting I
Painting II (prerequisite: Painting I)
Printmaking I
Jewelry Design
Mask Making
Pottery I
Sculpture I
Total Picture (yearlong)
Multiple ArtsExploratory Arts (yearlong)
Ligon Art Classes Offered
First Semester 2014-15 School YearAll classes are a quarterlong unless noted. For full course description, please refer to the Ligon Elective Course
Description Guide located on the Ligon website at ligon.wcpss.net
Ligon Link - August 201414
Support the Arts at Ligon:
Donate to Ligon Arts Boosters!!!
Will your child take an arts class this year? Ligon Arts teachers instruct
approximately 800 students each quarter, offering a huge range of classes in
visual art, dance, drama, stagecraft, and vocal and instrumental music.
Unfortunately, these topquality educational experiences come at a cost far
beyond what Wake County can fund. Each year Ligon Arts Boosters raises
$30,000 to buy art supplies, sheet music and instruments, costumes, sets,
scripts, performance royalties and so much more.
In the past, we've sold cookie dough, wrapping paper, coupon books...We've sold and sold and sold, exhausting
students and parents, grandparents, neighbors, and friends. This year, LAB asks you to consider the value of your
child's daily exposure to the arts and make a simple donation in support.
If every Arts family gives $10 per student per class per quarter LAB will raise $32,000 without a salesbased
fundraiser!
Look for LAB's informational flyer, which will be distributed in Arts classes on the first day of each quarter. Let's
work together to support the arts at Ligon without losing 50% of our fundraising dollars to outside companies!
Your donation also makes you a LAB member!
If you wish to donate now, please return the form below with your donation. Make your check payable to Ligon
Arts Boosters and send to LAB, c/o Ligon GT Magnet Middle School, 706 E. Lenoir St. Raleigh, NC 27601
Student Name(s) and Grade(s): ___________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian(s): ____________________________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________________
Phone: _______________________ Email: _____________________________________
My company matches employee donations: ____yes ____no I would like to be a LAB volunteer: ____yes ____no
PresidentMark [email protected]
First Vice PresidentOpen
SecretaryDianne Dunning
TreasurerJennifer Neisner
MembershipHeather Koons
CommunicationsLaurie Lin
ProgramsHunter Buxton
FundraisingOpen
CarpoolBernadette Benas
HospitalityTiffany Neijna
Student AchievementOpen
PTA Officers 2014-2015
Contact the PTA!www.ligonpta.com
Twitter: @LigonPTA
919.421.4513
Positions availableAsk how you can help!
Ligon Link - August 2014 15
Join or Renew Your Yearly Ligon PTA Membership Today!
This is YOUR PTA. Help support us any way you can. Questions or concerns? Feel free to contact Heather
Koons, VP Membership, at [email protected].
Member Name: ________________________________________________
Additional Member(s):________________________________________________
Student(s) Information
Name: Grade: Homeroom Teacher:
___________________________________________ _____ _______________________________
___________________________________________ _____ _______________________________
___________________________________________ _____ _______________________________
Mailing Address:_____________________________________________________________
City: ___________________ State: ____ ZIP: _____________
Email Address: _____________________________________________________________________
Additional Member Email: _____________________________________________________________________
Phone: Type (check): Phone: Type (check):
_____________________ HOME WORK MOBILE _____________________ HOME WORK MOBILE
PTA membership ($10 per person) $_______Phantom Fundraiser donation (optional) $_______
What is the one thing that PTA does that helps Ligon the most?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
What is one thing that you wish the PTA would do?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Would you like information on volunteering? YES NO
Fill out online!
_____Yes, please send me a Membership Card Your membership card will be sent home
through your student’s homeroom teacher. Please make sure the information is listed above.
_____ No thanks!
Make checks payable to Ligon PTA. Return to PTA box in mailroom or bring to Into the Blue or Open
House. You may also mail your membership form to Ligon PTA Membership, 706 E. Lenoir Street,
Raleigh, NC 27601 or fill out this form online at http://www.ligonpta.com/membership
(Suggested Phantom donation is $75 per student)
Ligon Link - August 201416
Ligon GT Magnet Middle School706 E. Lenoir Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
9198567929
Nonprofit OrganizationU. S. POSTAGE PAID
Raleigh, NCPermit Number 1854
Ligon LinkLigon GT Magnet Middle School 706 E. Lenoir Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
919.856.7929 ligon.wcpss.net www.ligonpta.com
Important information about
the 2014-2015 school year