Sponsored by Community Connections of Brockton in alliance with Brockton’s Promise and the United Way of Greater Plymouth County

FALL 2013 | FREENew! Now serving the Greater Brockton Area. Get involved!

www.ccbrockton.orgBy parents, for parents in the Greater Brockton Area

OUR COVER WINNERS: The Canino Dias Family

Get ready for school & fall » Information on how to prep your preschooler

» Vaccination information

» Great fall events happening around the city

Building for the future, Expanding Care to your community

For more information, visit www.MySignatureCare.org/expansion

Lab & imaging

PLenty of Parking

CantonRandolph

Holbrook We

ymouth

Rockland Hanover

Hanson

Halifax

AbingtonAvonStoughton

Sharon

BrocktonWhitman

EastBridgewaterWest

Bridgewater

Bridgewater

Raynham

Berkley

Taunton

Lakeville

Middleboro

Easton

Signature Healthcare is excited to announce the opening of our brand new medical office space in Easton, under 10 minutes from our Liberty Street location at Two Washington Place, 31 Roche Brothers Way, N. Easton. We are pleased to offer the following services at this location:

• Internal Medicine

• Ob/gyn

• Pediatrics

• Plastic Surgery

-3-

Table of Contents

Dear Brockton Area Parent,

Welcome to the 2013 Fall-Back to School issue of Brockton Parents Magazine. The 2013-2014 school year has begun. You will find yourself completing

the task of filling out many important forms required by your child’s school. We would like to suggest that you take the time to read the school's handbook as it usually includes answers to many of your questions. We also recommend that you take a moment every night and check your child’s backpack for homework and “back-pack” mail. You will find many of the flyers include information about Brockton Public Schools events. Some of the events include the schools’ Open House dates, Title 1 programs and the Parents’ Academy Workshops. In case you miss it, you don’t have to worry as we have included the information in this issue. Make sure to read the letter from our new Brockton Public Schools Superintendent, Kathleen Smith, JD.

Another thing to remember, there will be a city election this fall so don’t forget to vote! Go out and support your candidates. We have listed important deadline dates to register to vote. The city’s Election Day is Tuesday, November 5th, 2013.

With summer winding down and fall is right around the corner, we get to witness the beautiful colors of fall. It’s a great time to spend time outside! Check out each section of the magazine and view the list of events under WHAT’S GOING ON. We have included events that are fun for the entire family, like The Family Center's 3rd Annual Open House on Sunday, October 6th from 1-3 pm with music, face painting, pumpkin carving and much more. Also mark your calendars for Tower-fest at D.W. Fields Park on Saturday, October 12th, from 11 am – 4 pm.

We hope that you find the information useful and take advantage of the resources and articles that we have put together for you. Have a great fall and terrific school year!

--The Brockton Parent Magazine Editorial Board

In partnership with:

Infants/toddlers pg. 10 -11

preschool/K pg. 12-13

elementary pg. 14-15

mIddle school pg. 16-17

hIgh school pg. 18-19

college pg. 20-21

famIly fInances pg. 9

A special thanks to our advertisers:

» Bill Carpenter - Paid for and authorized by the committee to elect Bill Carpenter

» Boston Medical Center HealthNet Plan (BMCHP)

» Brockton Housing Authority

» HarborOne Multicultural Banking Center

» High Point Treatment Center

» Jim Rober Photography

» Massasoit Community College

» Mayor Linda Balzotti-Paid for the Balzotti Committee

» Network Health

» Robert Sullivan-Paid for by the Committee to re-elect Robert Sullivan

» Rodney Kornegay - New York Life

» Shirley Asack for Ward 7

» Signature Health Care

» Southeastern Technical Institute

» Steward Good Samaritan Medical Center

» The Family Center

» Tom Sedell for Ward 1

» Walgreens

To advertise in the Brockton Parents Magazine, please call Juliana Langille, Executive Director of Community Connections of Brockton at (508) 583-5631 or email us at magazine@ccbrockton.org. 18 Perkins St., Brockton, MA 02302

JunIor edItIon pg. 23

Important dates pg. 5

You Could Be on The nexT Cover!

Enter our facebook cover photo contest! • Email your family photo to

magazine@ccbrockton.org

• Photo with the most 'likes' will be featured on the next cover

September 2013Dear Parents,

I have always loved September because it means the start of a new school year and a new journey: our students, teachers and staff return to schools full of optimism and hope. The excitement is evident everywhere – from the first grader’s perfectly sharpened pencils in an unblemished pencil case to the sparkling white sneakers of a high school freshman to the crisp, colorful bulletin boards that line the hallways in our middle schools, everyone is ready to start the year on the right foot.

Every year is special, but this one is the best yet for me - I am so proud to open schools as your Superintendent of Schools. I have spent my 37-year career in the Brockton Public Schools, working as a Title I teacher, Special Education Teacher, School Adjustment Counselor, MCAS Manager and Community Schools Director. I have had the pleasure of working with hundreds of our dedicated teachers, administrators and staff members and I know firsthand what an incredible school system we have.

I truly believe that the Brockton Public Schools is our city’s greatest asset; our staff is passionate about giving our children the best quality education and dedicated to ensuring that every child gets the individual attention they need to succeed. Brockton provides amazing services to all learners; from early childhood to adult education, we have specialized programs that provide the best instruction to students with disabilities, students whose first language is not English, talented and gifted and regular education students. The Brockton Public Schools offers wonderful before and after-school programs, enrichment and recreation programs, and some of the finest arts, music, athletic, health and science programs around. We are committed to excellence because we believe Brockton children deserve the very best.

We want you and your child to have a great school year, and we will do everything we can to support that educational journey. Whenever you have a question, I encourage you to contact your child’s school – our job as educators is to help your child learn and grow, and we are your partners in that mission. The most important thing you can do to help your child is to demonstrate your investment in their education, and I hope that you will take advantage of many of the parent engagement activities we offer and get involved in your school’s Parent Advisory Council or Parent Teacher Association. One of Brockton’s strengths is its great sense of community, and I want your input and involvement to help us continue to improve our schools.

The Brockton Public Schools mean so much to me: I am not only Superintendent of Schools, but a Brockton resident and the parent of students who attended our school system. This is my dream job, and I am going to work as hard as I can to ensure that your children get the best education possible, so that they have every advantage in life.

I look forward to welcoming you and your children back to school and to working with you to make this our most successful year yet.

Sincerely,Kathleen A. Smith, JDSuperintendent of Schools

A Letter From Our New Superintendent of Schools

October - May6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Two nights/week (TBA)

Now accepting applications!Call the Family Center: 508-583-5631

✹ Free tuition + books✹✹ Child watch + transportation available✹ Transferrable college credit

thewriting

U.S. history

literature

art historyphilosophy

TITLE I ANNUAL BREAKFAST

2013 Angelo October 1 9:15 AM

Arnone K 1-5

November 6 September 23

9:30 AM

Baker K-1 Baker 2-5

September 19 September 25 9:00 AM

Brookfield October 25 9:15 AM

Davis K-5 September 20 9:00 AM

Downey October 2 9:15 AM

George K-1 George 2-5

October 29 October 24 9:15 AM

Hancock October 10 9:15 AM

Huntington K-1 Huntington 2-5

October 23 October 9

8:20 AM

Kennedy K-1 Kennedy 2-5

October 8 October 11 9:15 AM

Raymond K-5 October 3 9:00 AM

2013-2014

Angelo October 16 6:15–7:15 PM

Arnone October 23 6:15–7:15 PM

Baker November 6 6:15–7:15 PM

Brookfield March 19 6:15–7:15 PM

Davis K-5 November 13 6:15–7:15 PM

Downey September 25 6:15–7:15 PM

George February 12 6:15–7:15 PM

Hancock March 5 6:15–7:15 PM

Huntington April 16 6:15–7:15 PM

Kennedy January 22 6:15–7:15 PM

Raymond March 26 6:15–7:15 PM

Trinity TBA 6:15–7:15 PM

*Doors Open at 6 p.m.

Angelo October 16 6:15–7:15 PM

Arnone October 23 6:15–7:15 PM

Baker November 6 6:15–7:15 PM

Brookfield March 19 6:15–7:15 PM

Davis K-5 November 13 6:15–7:15 PM

Downey September 25 6:15–7:15 PM

George February 12 6:15–7:15 PM

Hancock March 5 6:15–7:15 PM

Huntington April 16 6:15–7:15 PM

Kennedy January 22 6:15–7:15 PM

Raymond March 26 6:15–7:15 PM

Trinity TBA 6:15–7:15 PM

*Doors Open at 6 p.m.

Open Houses

September 2013

Pre-K - 8

Angelo (K-5) Thurs, September 12 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Arnone (K-5) Thurs, September 12 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Baker (PreK-5) Thurs, September 12 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Brookfield (K-5) Tues, September 10 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Davis (K-8) Thurs, September 12 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Downey (K-5) Thurs, September 12 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

George (K-5) Wed, September 11 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Gilmore (Pre-K) Tues, September 17

Pre-K 9:00, 1:00 & 5:30

K 10:30 and 6:30

Goddard (3-12) Wed, September 18 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Hancock (PreK-5) Thurs, September 12 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Huntington (K-5) Tues, September 10 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Kennedy (K-5) Thurs, September 12 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Raymond (K-7) Thurs, September 12 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Middle Schools Ashfield (6-7) Wed, September 18 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Plouffe (5-8) Wed, September 18 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

NMS (6-8) Wed, September 18 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

EMS (6-8) Wed, September 18 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

SMS (6-8) Wed, September 18 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

WMS (6-8) Thurs, September 29 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Russell (7-12) Wed, September 18 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

High Schools

BHS Thurs, September 19 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Champion HS Wed, September 18 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Angelo October 1 9:15 AM

Arnone K November 6 9:30 AM

1-5 September 23

Baker K-1 September 19 9:00 AM

Baker 2-5 September 25

Brookfield October 25 9:15 AM

Davis K-5 September 20 9:00 AM

Downey October 2 9:15 AM

George K-1 October 29 9:15 AM

George 2-5 October 24

Hancock October 10 9:15 AM

Huntington K-1 October 23 8:20 AM

Huntington 2-5 October 9 8:20 AM

Kennedy K-1 October 8 9:15 AM

Kennedy 2-5 October 11 9:15 AM

Raymond K-5 October 3 9:00 AM

don't forget to Vote on noVember 5th

tue, sept 17, 2013 City Preliminary Election | Wed, oct. 16, 2013 Last day to register to vote | tue, nov. 5, 2013 CITY ELECTION

ABOUT LINDA: Lifelong Brockton resident Proud graduate of Brockton

Public Schools & Syracuse University

Experienced and caring leadership

PLEASE VOTE Tuesday, September 17th

and Tuesday, November 5th

For more information, visit

www.mayorlindabalzotti.com

Paid for by The Balzotti Committee

Linda Balzotti knows what Brockton residents want

because she’s been working with them for over 20 years. A lifelong resident and a product of the Brockton Public Schools, Linda works alongside small business owners, parents, and concerned citizens every day to make sure

that Brockton’s resurgence is one we can all be proud of – now and in the future.

www.mayorlindabalzotti.com facebook.com/MayorBalzotti

Political Advertisement

Paid for by the Comm. to Re-Elect Robert Sullivan

Political Advertisement

RE-ELECT

Leadership For Brockton!

ROBERT

SULLIVANCOUNCILLOR

AT LARGE

Contact InformationWho We are:The Brockton’s Parents Magazine is comprised of an editorial board of local volunteer parents. We meet once a month to discuss story ideas, plan the magazine and talk about topics of interest for parents in our community.

edItorIal team: KAREEN BLAKE, Parent Editor SONJA BROWN, Parent Editor CLAUDIA CUNHA, Parent Editor, Distribution TeamJOSUE CUNHA, Parent Editor, Distribution Team STACEY DOBBINS, Parent Editor CHRIS DRAVES, Parent Editor & Distribution Coordinator NICKI MEADE DRAVES, Parent Editor MELISA GILLINGS, Parent Editor FABIOLA HYPPOLITE, Parent Editor PHILLIPE JUSTIN, EditorRODNEY T. KOURNEGAY, Editor VANESSA LUNDY, Parent Editor CINDY MEDINA-SEPULVEDA, Parent EditorMICHELLE PINTO, Parent Editor & Layout Team BETTY RADA, Parent Editor JAMES ROBER, Parent Editor & Photographer FELICITA SEPULVEDA, Parent Editor & Outreach Team SUSIE SHAW, Parent Editor KASSMIN WILLIAMS, Layout Team YOLENE WILSON, Parent Editor MARIA WILSON-SEPULVEDA, Parent Editor & Edit Team AMY WINSTON, Parent Editor & Edit Team

a specIal thanK you to: Kate Archard, Edit Volunteer Katie Cavanagh, Edit Volunteer Lauren DeFilippo, Edit VolunteerMark Frey, Edit Volunteer Judith Guevara, Edit Volunteer Raegina Joyner, Volunteer Nancy King, Edit Volunteer Luz Laboy, Volunteer - Childrens Activities Marcia Perry, Edit Volunteer Ann Rosen, Edit Volunteer Danyelle Roppolo, Edit Volunteer

contact us: Want to get involved? Want to advertise? Looking to write an article? Write, call or visit online! We meet the second Thursday of each month

at 5:30 PM. Light dinner and child care are provided.

Brockton Parents Magazine c/o The Family Center at Community Connections of Brockton18 Perkins Street | Brockton, MA 02302T: (508)-583-5631 | magazine@ccbrockton.org | www.ccbrockton.org

TOGETHER WE’RE BETTER.We’re by your side, getting you access to the health care you deserve.

For all your health plan options, call Commonwealth Care at 877-623-6765 (TTY:877-623-7773), or visit www.mahealthconnector.org, or call MassHealth at 800-841-2900 (TTY:800-497-4648), M – F, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

© 2

013

Netw

ork

Healt

h, L

LC

Close to hometo help you stay well.Count on us to offer trusted healthcare expertise and convenient services such as 90-day prescriptions, plus immunizations for adults and children.

To find the Walgreens nearest you, call 1-800-WALGREENS (1-800-925-4733) or visit Walgreens.com.

-8-

We created our MultiCultural Banking Center to help people in our community improve their understanding of personal finance – borrowing, saving and much more.

To sign up for classes or to learn more, call 508-895-1770 or visit us online at www.harborone.com.

1.800.244.7592 www.harborone.com Member FDIC. Member SIF.

Promoting financial independence

through education.

26HOB006_CreditLife_ImgPrnt_ParentsMag_4x5_23_5_ah8.indd 1 7/19/13 9:36 AM

Kareen Blake is a financial representative with Baystate Financial Services, 100 William St., Suite 300,Wellesley, MA 02481. She lives on Massachusetts’ South Shore with her husband and her two greatest accomplishments – her son and daughter. In her spare time, she enjoys Zumba and spinning classes, canoeing, and watching Penn State and New England Patriot’s football games.

Contact her at (781) 239-2010 or kblake@baystatefinancial.com or visit www.kblake-baystatefinancial.com. L0412253069[exp0413][MA]

Disclosure: Securities products are offered through Kareen Blake a registered representative of New England Securities Corp., a broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC) 100 William Street, Suite 300, Wellesley, MA 02481. Baystate Financial is not affiliated

with New England Securities Corp.

Kareen Blake is personally responsible for the contents of this program. The views that are expressed are not necessarily those of New England Securities or any of its affiliated companies. Nothing mentioned on this program should be taken as legal, accounting, or tax advice. For advice in those areas, please consult your own legal or tax advisor. L0512257673 [exp0913][MA,RI]

-9-

Courtesy of Kareen Blake Baystate Financial

HIGH SCHOOL TO COLLEGE MONEY-SAVING TIPS PART II

It’s that time of year again, when high school students are leaving the nest and flocking to institutions of higher learning. If you or someone you know is heading off to college this fall, here are some tips on how to be a financially savvy student:

1. establish class schedules early -- Students should meet with their advisors early to figure out which classes to take. When classes fill up and they can’t get in, students are often forced to make them up in summer school or stay an extra semester. This can be costly.

2. avoid unnecessary fees such as parking fines or late fees for library books or video rentals. Also, research your bank’s ATM availability on campus to avoid extra ATM fees. Plus, make sure that the student’s account has overdraft protection to avoid paying $35 to $50 in overdraft fees.

3. use technology wisely -- Set up text and email alerts for bank accounts and credit cards to help keep tabs on spending and avoid missing payment dates or maxing out a credit card.

4. protect your student from theft -- Living in a dorm, where other students or strangers might easily access a student's room, increases the likelihood of identity theft. Take advantage of online or mobile banking to monitor account information regularly. And speaking of theft, laptops and other expensive items are sometimes stolen in college. Parents should re-examine their insurance when their child heads off to college. Homeowner's policies provide limited coverage of children's personal property, and usually come with a large deductible. A renter's insurance policy may provide better coverage with lower deductibles. 5. check auto insurance discounts -- If the student is taking a car to college that is 100 miles away or further, some insurers will offer a discount. They also typically provide discounts for students with B averages or better. 6. capitalize on coupons -- Send coupons or encourage students to clip coupons for toiletries or grocery store items. Check out sites for daily deals on restaurants and other services. Now is also a good time to use any gift cards they may have received at graduation.

College students learn many valuable skills that they carry through adulthood. Responsible money management should be one of them.

*Source – Associated Press, April 3, 2012 http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2012/04/03/recovery_threatened_by_runaway_student_loan_debt/

infant/toddler

What’s going on?What Do You offer your child as a healthy snack?

Let's Get Messy | 18 Perkins Street, Brockton MA 02302 South Bay Early Childhood, CFCE and The Family Center invites parents, grandparents or guardians to join them on the second Saturday of each month from 12:30 pm 2:00 pm and bring your children ages 18 months to 5 years old to play, create and imagine!

For more information please contact The Family Center at 508-857-0272

Sensory Exploration | 115 W. Chestnut Street, Brockton MA 02301 South Bay Early Childhood invite your toddler to a fun, adventurous and at times messy group. Please wear play clothes for messy time.

For more information please contact Patricia Connelly at 508-559-0473 x2814

Nurturing Fathers Program | South Bay Mental Health Center Meets once a week for 13 weeks, Tuesdays, 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm 1115 West Chestnut Street, Brockton MAGain opportunities to learn the roots of fathering how to nurture your children and yourself.

For more information, please call 508-580-4691-10-

"lots of fresh fruIt, unsalted nuts, yogurt" -Amy Bolinder

"plaIn greeK yogurt WIth berrIes, you can also dIp straWberrIes and blueberrIes In yogurt and freeze them. -Sue Heitie WEPA Fitness

braIn buIldIng for famIlIes-layIng the foundatIon for successBy Joni Block, Brockton CFCE

Caring adults are the ultimate brain builders. A caring adult’s back and forth serve-and-return interactions – cooing or speaking, touching and making eye contact – begin building brain architecture from the momenta baby is born.

As a young child grows, these interactions and experiences create connections that wire the brain for future success. They also lay the foundation for the next phase of learning – like reading and math – and lifetime of school success. Whenever children are nurtured and engaged in an interactive, enriching environment at home or in the community, that’s brain building in progress!

What’s the most important thing we can all do? Have an engaging interaction with a young child. Read a book with a toddler and have a conversation about it. Play peek-a-boo with a baby. Or, take the time to be completely fascinated by the artwork of a young neighbor, niece or nephew. Get down to their level. Look them in the eye. And really, really listen.

Every interactive experience that an adult has with a young child creates valuable connections that permanently wire the architecture of an amazing work in progress. All of us are brain builders.

In Massachusetts, families have many partners. The most valuable are the educators, caregivers and after-school and summer programs that you choose during the first five years and beyond. Before the age of three, the human brain develops more rapidly than at any other time in life. Young children’s brains develop 700 synapses (neural connections that transmit information) every second.

Ideas for building your child's brain can be found at the following site: http://brainbuildinginprogress.org/

For more ideas, contact the Brockton CFCE Office at 508-580-7491 or Joniblock@bpsma.org

infant/toddler

fruIt JuIces: the good and the badBy Vivian Yee, Intern for the Family Center & Brockton Parents Magazine

School is around the corner, and soon your children will find that it’s easier to drink unhealthy beverages to fulfill their cravings. Unfortunately, it’s

difficult to control much of what they consume when you’re not around, but it’s easier to educate yourself and your children on what kind of juices are more nutritious and healthier than others. With this guide, parents can pick out the best juices to buy for their young ones, and youth can help themselves get the most out of their juice choices.

» When buying juices in grocery stores, avoid labels like “drink”, “punch”, “cocktail”, “beverage” and “ade”. Those drinks contain little to no nutritional value and are usually just sugar water. Stick to buying juices labeled “100 percent fruit juice”.

» Always check the ingredients of the drinks that you buy! Avoid drinks that have added “fructose corn syrup”, which make the taste buds prefer artificial sweetness.

» The cloudier the juice, the more nutritional value there is! If you can see through it, you’re mostly buying sugar water. Thus, citrus juices like orange juice and grapefruit juice are the most nutritious. This doesn’t mean that apple juice has no nutritional value, but it’s best to go for the cloudiest you can find.

» Try to buy juices labeled “pasteurized”. This means that the juices are clean of juice-borne bacteria that can cause illnesses, which can easily affect people with weak immune systems (young children, pregnant women and the elderly). It increases shelf life and reduces bacteria count. Don’t worry; pasteurization doesn’t affect the taste, vitamins or minerals in the juice.

Here are facts about some healthy fruit juice choices:

» orange: the juice with the highest amount of vitamin C (helps ligaments, tendons, skin, blood vessels and bones) and potassium (maintains the body’s water and acid balance). It is also a good source of foliate (makes healthy cells and prevents birth defects in babies) and thiamin (essential for the functioning of the heart, muscles and nervous system).

» prune: the juice with the highest amount of iron (helps carry oxygen in blood and regulate the growth of cells), zinc (boosts immune system and helps bone strength), fiber (helps digestive system) and niacin (helps digestive system, skin and nerves to function).

» apricot nectar: this juice has a high amount of vitamin A (helps with defective eyesight) and vitamin B-6 (makes antibodies and hemoglobin, helps maintain normal nerve function and blood sugar). It has more calories, but more nutrients are preserved during the processing.

» pomegranate: the juice that contains high amounts of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B-5 (produces enzymes for the central nervous system to communicate with the brain). It is also linked to protecting against certain types of cancer and heart disease.

parents of chIldren WIth asd ages 0-9

an Important announcement from the autIsm dIVIsIonOpen Enrollment for the Children's Autism Waiver Program October 7, 2013- October 18, 2013

WHO SHOULD APPLY?1) Parents who have children on the autism spectrum 0-9 years old. 2) Parents who think intensive services are needed to support their child with autism spectrum disorder in the home and community (ABA, floor time, as well as respite and other services).  The Autism Waiver program offers $25,000/year of services for three years for each child selected.  3) Parents who think they might be eligible for MassHealth. * Applications for the Autism Waiver Program must be postmarked between October 7, 2013 and October 18, 2013.  Applications with postmarks before October 7 or after October 18 will be discarded. * Even if you applied during the last open enrollment period, you must apply again between October 7 and October 18 to remain eligible for Autism Waiver services. Additional Information about this Waiver Program will soon be available on the DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES Website at: www.mass.gov/DDS under `Autism Spectrum Services' or contact 1-888-367-4435.  Information is also available through the Autism Support Centers listed below.  Listing of the Autism Support Centers :Community Autism Resources (CAR) 33 James Reynolds Rd, Unit C, Swansea, MA 02777 #508-379-0371: Serving Southeastern, MA  TILL, Inc.: Autism Support Center  20 Eastbrook Rd. Dedham, MA 02026 #781-302-4600 x 4661: Serving Greater Boston SNCARC: The Family Autism Center 789 Clapboardtree Street, Westwood, MA 02090 #781-762-4001, X. 395: Serving Norfolk County Area

-11-

preschool/K

What Do You Do For Fall Fun?

"raKIng leaVes,

maKIng bIg pIles,

then JumpIng In them "

What’s going on? Free Story Time-The Village Toy Shop| 285 Washington St, N. Easton, MAEvery Tuesday at 10:30 am & every Sunday at 3:00 pm - Come and join us for Storytime and Craft.

For more information please call 508-238-8697

NRT 40th Annual Harvest Fair | Main Street, Easton, MASunday, October 6, 2013 , 10 am - 4 pm.The annual community tradition will bring together families and friends for a wonderful day. This event offers the very best of the country fair, including live music, festive fair food, children's activities, local artisans, crafters and much more.

For more information please call 508-238-6049 or visit: www.nrtofeaston.org

-12-

tIps for hIKIng WIth young chIldrenBy Chris Draves, Parent Editor

The fall is a great time of year to get out of your house, get some exercise and do something fun with your family. The leaves are turning, the humidity is much lower and it’s starting to get cooler during the days as well as the nights. A family hike is a

great activity that doesn’t take much planning or gear that you don’t probably already have at home.

The first thing you need to do is to pick where you would like to hike. Try not to plan anything too tough for the first time. It’s also a good idea to check the weather prior to your hike. You may want to ask any parent groups or other parents if they hike and where they take their children.

When planning to hike with real small children: » First try hiking around the block in your neighborhood or around a

local pond or playground. See how your child responds and enjoys the hike.

» Understand that frequent stops may be required when hiking with children so don’t make the hike very long. Your child may get too tired before the end of your hike and you will be the one carrying them back to the starting point.

» Make the hike on rather flat ground, dirt or pavement so that you will not have problems navigating your stroller. You could also carry your child in a backpack carrier or in a sling carrier.

» Always bring plenty of water even when the weather is cool. It’s important to stay hydrated at all times during the year. Just because you’re not sweating doesn’t mean you don’t need to drink water. Water bottles fit nicely in your stroller or backpack.

» Bring snacks for very everyone. Cheese, mixed nuts, granola bars, fruit and sandwiches are all great choices for food on your hike. Include ice packs for anything that needs to be kept cold and everything can be carried easily in a backpack.

» Pack a Frisbee or ball. If you’re hiking to a pond or beach, take some sand toys as your child will enjoy playing with them while you take a break.

» It is important for both children parents to protect from sunburn that’s why a hat, sunglasses and sun block are a good idea even if it’s not going to be sunny out. Apply sunblock frequently especially if someone has been sweating or been swimming.

» Bring bug spray; it is especially important if you are going to be in the woods. Remember to check everyone for ticks during and at the end of the hike even if you aren’t hiking in the woods.

» If you have a family mascot, bring them along as they love the exercise and are a great addition to the trip.

preschool/K

-13-

gettIng ready for schoolBy Joni Block, Brockton CFCE

Ahhhhh…the start of another school year! This may be the first educational experience for your child, perhaps your child is in a new building, or maybe this a “just another first day”.

Whether your child attends a family early child program in a home, an Early Intervention program, a center based early childhood program, Head Start, public school PreK or Kindergarten program, or a playgroup, this time of transitions for you and your child can be full of wonder, fun, and questions!

Following are a few tips for you: » Establish regular sleeping hours.

» Allow enough time for morning routines and travel times.

» Help your child develop responsibility for clothing and school materials.

» Review contents of folders or backpacks that come home.

» Be sure to provide the program with contact information.

» Maintain open communication and inform the program of any changes that may affect your child in any way.

» Talk to your child about their day.

» Sign up for a library card at local public library.

» Provide opportunities for your child to share and help others.

» Plan play activities for sheer enjoyment and fun!

A popular first day of school book that your child may enjoy is, The Kissing Hand, by Audrey Penn. In this contemporary classic Chester Raccoon seeks love and reassurance from his mother as he ventures out into the world to attend his very first day of school.

put VaccInatIons at the top of your bacK to school checKlIstBy Walgreens Pharmacist Andy, Walgreens Wellness Newsletter August 2013*

The end of summer usually means one thing for kids: back to school. And in addition to getting the supplies to help them excel in the classroom, parents need to make sure their children—from preschoolers to college students—are up-to-date with their vaccinations. Without such vigilance, vaccine-preventable illnesses can and will resurface. Whooping cough and measles are just two examples of communicable illnesses that have increased in recent years. Stopping or delaying vaccines could result in a reemergence of many of the more than 16 diseases that can be prevented by vaccines.

Here are eight tips adapted from the CDC and my earlier article for protecting your children’s health through immunizations:

» Learn what vaccines children need and when the doses should be given by reviewing CDC’s nationally recommended Childhood Immunization Schedule or by checking with your school or health care provider.

» Keep copies of your immunization documentation in more than one place. This ensures you’ll always have a copy of the most up-to-date information, even if a document gets lost or misplaced.

» CDC has an informative web site for parents on vaccines for your children. Some schools require vaccinations against meningococcal meningitis and a chickenpox booster.

» Check with your local health department to see if it offers free vaccinations.

» There is no credible scientific evidence linking vaccines with autism. Some people have had concerns that autism might be linked to vaccines but CDC asserts there is no association between the two.

» In addition to the vaccines many of us are familiar with, newer vaccines have been introduced to protect against conditions such as human papilloma virus (HPV, the virus that can cause cervical cancer). Keep an eye on the latest vaccine updates from the FDA. Annual flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older, including pre-school and elementary school children. Ask your family doctor or nurse about getting flu shots or the nasal spray to protect against flu.

» Pharmacists are an excellent source of information and many local pharmacies offer immunizations, but check first to see that your pharmacist offers services to all ages.

It’s been over 200 years since Dr. Edward Jenner first developed a vaccination against smallpox – now an eradicated disease. Since then, vaccinations have saved millions of lives. Staying on a vaccination schedule is one of the most important things you can do to keep your children and your community healthy.

be well, stay well, pharmacist andy

See more at: http://staywellblog.walgreens.com/health-wellness/put-vaccinations-at-the-top-of-your-back-to-school-checklist/#sthash.FKzAigzy.dpuf

Written on August 20, 2012 by Walgreens in Cold & Flu, Global Health & Travel, Health & Wellness, Vaccines & Immunizations *Published with Walgreens’ consent

elementary

TOWERFEST | D.W. Fields Park, Brockton MA 02301Saturday, October 12, 2013, 11 am to 4 pm

Free Pony Rides, Creature Teachers, Children's Story Teller, Balloonman, Cosmo Legion Band,

Face Painting, Food and much more

New Life AME Zion Church | 51 Waverly St. Brockton, MA 02301Saturday, September 14, 2013 at 12:00pm We will be hosting a cook-out, backpack and school supplies give-a-way.

For more information please contact Heather Walkes 508-559-5059

KIDS Road Races|D.W. Fields Park, Brockton MA 02301 Races will be held on Sept. 7, 14, 21, 28, Oct 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2013Registration: 9:30 - 9:45 am at the Pentangle Parking Lot. The 2.2 miles race will begin at 10:00 am sharp. Boys & Girls ages 6 & under & 7-8 road races. Donation $1.00 per week.

For complete details and more information please visit: www.kidroadrace.org

What’s going on?

-14-

Check your Back to School supply list

grades K-5 supply listBackpack, Pencils, Glue, Crayons,

Notebook, Erasers, and Markers

grades 6-8 supply listBackpack, Pocket folder, Binder, Notebook, Filler

Paper, Pens, Ruler, Pencils, Highlighters and Eraser

free and reduced lunch program… a WIn for eVeryoneBy Anna DeAndrade, Brockton Public Schools

It’s that time of year again! At the beginning of the school year Free and Reduced Lunch Program applications will be sent home with each student. Whether or not you think you qualify for the program, I ask

that you complete and return the application to your child’s school. For families with multiple children, only one application need be submitted per household. The Free and Reduced Lunch Program benefits all students, not just those who qualify.

Last year, because of the great effort of parents, the program saw an increase in both total applications and qualifying applications. This resulted in a significant amount of increased funding to Brockton Public Schools in the form of additional Title 1 funds and additional funds from grants.

Many are unaware that it is the statistics generated from the Free and Reduced Lunch Program that are used to determine Title 1 funding and to determine qualification for numerous education related grants. These funds benefit all students, not just the ones who qualify for the program. The more families we can account for, the more our students stand to benefit.

Another, and probably more important, result was that more students received well-balanced meals either free or at a reduced cost. It is always surprising to me how many families qualify for the program but do not realize it. With ever-changing family situations and occasional program guideline changes, a family that did not qualify one year may qualify the next.

I would like to not only match our great effort from last year, but I would like to surpass it. I ask that you return your Free and Reduced Lunch Program application whether or not you believe you will qualify. As I stated, the more applications we receive the more our students benefit.

Brockton Public Schools

1 student from each school will win:

YOU DON’T NEED TO QUALIFY FOR FREE/REDUCED LUNCH TO WIN!!!

To enter, simply return your child’s free and reduced lunch application to his/her

school. The application will serve as your entry form. One winner per school will be

drawn for each prize. For the High School, one winner will be selected, per house, for

each prize. There are no household limits or restrictions, ALL students with completed

free and reduced lunch applications are eligible to win! Applications must be completed

and submitted by the deadline, Friday, September 27, 2013, in order to be eligible.

Drawing to be held on Monday, November 4, 2013.

Please contact Ana A. DeAndrade with any questions at (508) 894-4543

Sponsored by: Brockton Public Schools www.brocktonpublicschools.com/lunch

Grand Prize Apple iPad 2 Tablet

Second Prize Kindle Fire HD Tablet

Third Prize Kindle Fire Tablet

elementary

-15-

IntergeneratIonal art proJect “brIdgIng the gap”By Perette Durandis

With this fast growing technology era, it is easier for people to communicate

with each other within a fraction of a second. There is no doubt about it; the use of mass media is fantastic! Nevertheless, socializing and building constructive relationships require more than technological devices.

In their quest to build a healthier community where young and old can get together in the City of Champions, The Family Center/Community Connections of Brockton in collaboration with the Senior Center, Marie Cruise Kennedy and the Arnone Elementary School ran a very exciting Intergenerational Art Project. This 3-session project took place at the end of the school year 2012-2013. The Arnone Elementary School and The Senior Center are located within walking distance of each other.

As the group of students walked through the door of the Center for the first session of the project, one could already tell it was going to be a unique experience. Both parties, seniors and youth, were all excited! Each youngster brought his/her own drawing on a piece of paper. The art instructor as well as the senior participants designed the setting of the room for the activity. Each senior worked with two friends to help them transfer and paint their particular drawings into the canvas provided to them.

This project not only helped the young participants to create his/her special art piece but also offered an opportunity to each participant to learn from and interact with each other. Let’s bridge the gap between our generations one activity at a time! Stay tuned for the next Project! Who knows, your child could be one of the new participants!

neW club at the famIly centerBy Michelle Pinto , Parent Editor

The Family Center is adding another great club to its repertoire. Learn, express, transform, succeed is the motto of this fun and interactive building club. Using LEGO building bricks, families are welcome to join us for a creative play time. Building with blocks has many benefits such as using your imagination, hand/eye coordination, fine motor skills, manual dexterity, learning about teamwork, and boosting self confidence.

The club is open to youth ages 6 and up. For more details about the club and meeting information, please call The Family Center at 508-857-0272.

Pre-registration is required.

Building with blocks has many benefits such as• Using your imagination• Hand/eye coordination• Fine motor skills• Manual dexterity• Learning about teamwork• Boosting self confidence

Learn | Express | Transform | Succeed

middle school

What Do You Do For Fall Fun?

"toWer fest at d.W. fIeld parK! "

-- Susie Q. Shaw

grades 6-8 school supply listBackpack, Pocket folder, Binder,

Notebook, Filler Paper, Pens, Ruler,

Pencils, Highlighters and Eraser

What’s going on?

-16-

A.O.C. Health Fair | New Life Community Empowerment Ctr. | 184 W. Elm St., Brockton, MA Saturday, September 14, 2013, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.. Please come for Free Health Screenings, Blood Pressure Testing, Free Raffles, Door Prizes, Food, Face Painting, Visit with many Community Agencies and Resources

For more information call 508-894-8001 ext. 1.

KIDS Road Races | D.W. Fields Park, Brockton MA 02301 Races will be held on Sept. 7, 14, 21, 28, Oct 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2013. Registration: 9:30 - 9:45 am at the Pentangle Parking Lot. The 2.2 miles race will begin at 10:00 am sharp. Boys & Girls ages 11-12 & 13-14 road races Donation $1.00 per week.

For complete details and more information please visit: www.kidroadrace.org

Davis School Basketball Fundraiser | Brockton High School, Brockton MA 02301 Friday, October 25, 2013 at 7:00 PM at Brockton High School. The Davis School PTA is hosting a basketball game between the world famous Harlem Wizards and our communty team made up of teachers, police and fire personnel from across the City! Advance ticket $8 students & $10 adults. $2 more at the door.

For more information please email: davispta@verizon.net or call Davis School at 508-580-7360

bullyIng- What parents can doBy Dr. Aileen (Abby) Abesamis, Pediatrician @ Signature Healthcare’s Children and Youth Clinic in Brockton

When your child is bullied, as a parent you may feel helpless or unsure about how to address the situation

with your child. It is our responsibility as parents to protect our children, but it’s difficult when they are at school and we are not around or we don’t know the proper advice.

The information below is meant to help guide parents when they think a child might be bullied at school.

1. Talk and listen to your child every day; specifically talk about bullying. Talking to them everyday reassures them that they can ask you for help if they have a problem.

2. Be a role model- show your child that speaking to anyone in a mean way is saying that bullying is right.

3. Recognize signs of bullying * Difficulty falling asleep * Refusal to go to school * Injuries, for example bruises * Damaged/missing belongings like clothing, bags, and books * Frequent headaches and stomachaches * Crying or always being sad

4. Set technology limits * Set up a common computer in a public space at home * Know and learn the websites your children usually visit * Get their passwords but only use them in case of emergency * Establish rules about cell phone use

5. Encourage friendships-strong bonds of friendships protect them from bullying.

6. Practice scenarios- practice how to respond when confronted; for example, ignoring a bully’s demand, e-mail, or text. Help your child act with self-confidence. Practice walking strong, looking people in the eye, and speaking clearly.

Remember, it is important to have an open dialogue with your child. This will help you better address any issues as they arise.

For parents who would like additional resources, I’ve included some links with some great information.

» http://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/Media/Pages/Cyber-Bullying.aspx

» http://www.stopbullying.gov/ » http://www.

bostonpublicschools.org/antibullying

» http://www.brocktonpublicschools.com/page.cfm?p=2485

middle school brocKton promIse “brocKton 180 get schooled all day, eVeryday”By Maria Wilson-Sepulveda, Parent Editor

On August 15, 2013, The Family Center, Brockton Parents Magazine, The United Way of Greater Plymouth County in support of Brockton’s Promise hosted a t-shirt give-a-way reward for students who attended school between 171 to 180 days during the 2012-2013 school year.

Students and their parents who arrived at the Family Center received a BROCKTON 180 logo t-shirt, met and had their picture taken with Brockton Public Schools the new Superintendent Kathleen A. Smith, JD, Dennis Carman, President and CEO of The United Way of Greater Plymouth County and Michael Mullen, Mayor’s Chief of Staff.

The Brockton 180 campaign encourages students to attend school “all day, every day” and educates parents on the importance of school attendance to future academic success.

Dennis Carman stated, “Our local United Way hopes that our entire community will support Brockton Promise’s “Brockton 180” because we know that staying in school all day, every day will give our children the very best chance of graduating from high school and the very best chance of succeeding in life.”

The following students participated: Andrew Monson and Emma Monson who both attended 180 days at the Angelo Elementary School, Alexandria Andrade, with 180 days at Brookfield Elementary School, Mateus Andrade, with 176 days at the Arnone Elementary School. D'armani Gillings and Khamari Gillings both had 180 days at the Downey Elementary, Vashawn Gillings with 179 days at Plouffe Academy, Elizabeth Wilson with 180 days and Jaquelynne Wilson with 178 days attendance both from Hancock Elementary School.

As caring adults, we support Brockton’s Promise and the Brockton 180 campaign. Research suggests that dropout patterns are linked with poor attendance, beginning in kindergarten. We all need to take on the challenge of supporting students in attending all 180 days of the school year. As parents, we can play a critical role in not only role modeling good attendance, but setting clear expectations at an early age of the importance of attending school all day, every day.

The Family Center would like to invite you to visit us at 18 Perkins St, Brockton, MA 02302, if your child had close to perfect attendance during the 2012-2013 school year (171-180 days). Just bring your child’s report card and you and your child will receive a t-shirt. We will take your name and picture which will be published in a future issue.

For more information about Brockton’s Promise please visit: www.brocktonspromise.org.

-17-

log off and get outBy Yolene Wilson, Parent Editor

Times have changed! What a difference between growing up in the 70's, 80's and 90's

compared to growing up today in 2013.Our children are overwhelmed with computers, smartphones, and video games systems. Today's society is creating an increasing amount of health issues such as childhood obesity, depression, and social anxiety. Children would rather stay inside than reap the benefits of the great outdoors. Most are entertaining themselves with modern technology. Family time has been replaced by iPhones, laptops, Play-stations, X-box and social media. As I reflect on my life as a child and all the childhood games Tug-a-War, Kick ball, Soccer, Hopscotch, Red Rover, and the most popular game of all Hide and Seek. These games didn't only keep us busy for hours at a time but we would we were also anxious to do it all over again the next day. These games encourage exercise and promote healthy lifestyles. These games also demonstrated team work. Modern technology is one of the greatest invention and it changes daily but it's crucial that we get bring back family time. Dinner time is a great time to bond with your child. Allow your child to help prepare meals. Sit down at the table engage in conversation with your children. Inquire about their day school, work, or activities they've participated in. This time also offer the opportunity to ask your children about their friends. Always take the time to get to know your child’s friends, where they live and about their families. Make a special effort to meet them and their families.

Family nature walks are a great way to get together. Take advantage of the local state parks where you can find several outdoor activities such as bike riding, camping, fishing, hiking and picnics. Family time creates memories that the whole family will cherish.

Reducing School Sport Injury Tips

high school

What’s going on?

-18-

September 11th Remembrance Anniversary | City Hall Plaza, Brockton MA Wednesday, Sept. 11th at 8:30 am at City Hall PlazaFor more information, please contact the Mayor's Office at 508-580-7123

Annual Antique Car show | Heights Crossing, 35 Christys Drive, Brockton MA Saturday, September 7th from 11 am to 2 pm. Free event with live music.

Stoughton Farmers Market| Trackside Plaza - 2 Canton St, Stoughton MA | Saturdays June - October, 9 am - 1 pm Rain or Shine. Featuring fresh local produce, baked goods, Kids' tent, Health & Wellness info and much more

For more information please visit our website: www.stoughtonfarmersmarket.org

Brockton Interfaith Community-2013 Fall Fundraiser, Massasoit Conference Center, Brockton MASAVE THE DATE! Please join us Thursday, November 21, 2013 from 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm for our ACTION HERO DINNER.

For invitation and ticket information, please contact Thomas McDonnell at 508-587-9550.

What Do You Do For Fall Fun?

"apple pIcKIng and carVIng pumpKIns! beaVer brooK farm In east brIdgeWater Is Where We get our

pumpKIns. We usually go further West for our apples."

--Michelle Pinto-Miceli

tIps to reduce school sport InJuryBy Tiarra Tolson, Brockton High Senior

It has been reported that every year there are thousands of cases of concussions in high school sports. Football, softball, baseball, basketball, and water sports are the most popular school sports. Below are some tips that can help you avoid injury:

TIP: Get a physicalVisit your child’s pediatrician or family physician for a physical to ensure that your child is physically able to participate in that particular sport. Most organizations require you to have an updated copy of your last physical that is less than 12 months old. This is to ensure that your child can play the sport to the fullest extent and be cautious of any disabilities your child might have.

TIP: Practice a healthy lifestyle Make sure your child is eating plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and drinking plenty of water. Making sure that your child is eating healthy, staying physically fit and getting a good nights sleep will help them play focused and alert.

TIP: Have the proper equipment To ensure your child's safety, you want to make sure your child has the proper equipment for the sport being played. This helps to reduce injuries and protects your child from any other dangers that may occur during the game.

TIP: Be a good listener Teach your child to listen and pay close attention. When your child is in practice or participating in the sport it’s very important that they listen to their coaches or any other instructor to avoid injury. They know the sport and have your child’s best interest at hand.

TIP: Know your child’s limitsIf your child is doesn’t want to play, don’t push them. They may be experiencing a limit or area that they may not be comfortable in. Do allow them to play to the best of their capability and encourage them that with plenty of practice they would improve. Having a child perform a maneuver that they are not comfortable with may result in an unnecessary injury.

Taking the time to follow the proper precautions will help for you and your child to have a positive sports experience.

high school

-19-

brocKton publIc lIbrary presents 25 museum dIscount passesBy Elizabeth A. Marcus, Director, Brockton Public Library

Now that the summer is winding down, it’s time to think of fun and educational activities for the coming year. Brockton Public Library has 25 different passes for museums and attractions across eastern Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut. These passes are sponsored by Brockton Public Library and Brockton Library Foundation through a generous grant from Brockton Cultural Council, a local agency of Massachusetts Cultural Council. If you are a Brockton resident and have a Brockton Public Library card in good standing, you can borrow any of these discount passes. Just go to our website at www.brocktonpubliclibrary.org and click on Museum Passes. You can book a pass right online and pick it up a day before your visit. Take advantage of our museum pass program and see the sights that are part of our heritage and fun for your whole family. The deep discounts offered will make a large difference to your wallet, too.

Brockton Public Library’s museum passes include: Battleship Cove, Boston by Foot, Boston Children’s Museum, Boston Harbor Islands, Buttonwood Park Zoo, Children’s Museum in Easton, Franklin Park & Stone Zoo, Fuller Craft Museum, Harvard Museum of Natural History, Institute of Contemporary Art, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, John F. Kennedy Library, Mass Audubon, Massachusetts Dept. of Conservation, Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Science, Mystic Aquarium, New Bedford Whaling Museum, New England Aquarium, Ocean Explorium, Pawtucket Red Sox, Plimoth Plantation, and Providence Children’s Museum.

Brockton Public Library is located at 304 Main Street, Brockton, MA. All programs are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. You do not have to be a resident of Brockton to attend. We are a member of Old Colony Library Network (OCLN). Any resident of Massachusetts can register for a free Brockton Public Library card; bring photo ID and proof of current address to the main circulation desk.

For more information, branch hours and locations call 508-580-7890. For calendar updates, and online/downloadable products, check out our website at www.brocktonpubliclibrary.org.

Strengthening individuals and families to strengthen communities is a core foundation that creates safe, organized

and vibrant neighborhoods and cities: where residents take pride in their environment, participate in democracy and support their local economy.

Community Connections of Brockton, in partnership with United Way of Greater Plymouth County, led a planning process that resulted in the submission of a proposal to the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston’s Working Cities Challenge Initiative. In collaboration with the Office of Mayor Linda Balzotti, and other notable financial and nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, law enforcement, local government and community members, if awarded the grant will support a community transformation project, aimed to strengthen individuals, families and communities in two of Brockton’s most economically depressed neighborhoods. Brockton is one of twenty other Massachusetts cities scattered throughout the Commonwealth that applied for this very competitive grant, ranging from $50,000.00 to $500,000.00 (disbursed over three years).

Our collaborative partnership is called “Champions United”. A community-wide meeting was held June 25, 2013 where all partners were present to discuss and receive feedback from residents about the grant opportunity. Community members who attended gave positive feedback and some contributed their time and talent by helping to complete the proposal.

Champions United [CU] will Change Brockton forever! It establishes a proven community organizing model that initially focuses on the city’s two poorest neighborhoods but can eventually be replicated throughout Brockton. CU brings old-school door-to-door neighborhood organizing together with a revolutionary cross-sector collaboration of public and private institutions (as named earlier) to create a pipeline for service provision, while at the same time building the capacity for local residents to participate in social change work themselves.

Our theory of change empowers Brockton’s poorest neighborhoods to rise up and reachtheir desired potential, providing choice and control over their personal economic and social conditions while offering them the tools and opportunities to participate collectively in reshaping the economic and social policies and structures necessary for citywide revitalization.

We believe that if we » Organize and train residents to reach out to

their neighbors; and

» Connect residents to vital services and resources through triage and counseling;

CU can... » Increase opportunities for educational

enrichment, workforce training, financial literacy and civic skill development;

thus creating... » Multiple pathways for citizen participation

in the local economy, living-wage jobs and entrepreneurship; producing...

» Equitable prosperity, increasing community investment; resulting in...

» Renewed community interest, civic engagement, empowerment and social justice.

CU will invest in the strength of what defines and holds a community together: organized community from the grassroots; strong community leaders; educated, empowered families; increased economic opportunities and access to employment; and shared equity and power.

As one Brockton community member noted “children who no longer sing or laugh become sadder and sadder and it follows them into adulthood--they need to sing and laugh again.” Champions United, in collaboration with residents and partnering organizations will spark laughter and rebuild healthy communities among Brockton’s citizens. There will be laughter and joy, but more importantly, we will witness the resurgence of a healthy, vibrant city once again, where all citizens will feel like Champions, and recognize that Champions United really is new and good in Brockton.

champIons unIted: somethIng good and neW In brocKtonBy Lee G. Farrow and Corey Dolgon

What’s going on?

college

Celebrate FaLL with a BLOCK PARTY!

Fall is here, the weather is cooler, and cookout season is not over yet-it's a great time of year for a...

Neighborhood Block Party! If you are interested in being part of the block party effort and fostering lasting

relationships with friends and neighbors, please call 508-857-0272 to find out

how the family center can support you in coordinating your own neighborhood block party. Together we can make this an event to remember--and hopefully, a

neighborhood tradition!

-20-

2nd Annual Brockton Friends of the Poor Family Walk Against Hunger | D.W. Fields ParkPlease join St. Edith Stein, Our Lady of Lourdes, Christ the King and St. Patrick's Parishes on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2013 at 11:15 am for their fundraiser walk to help fill the food pantries and help needy families in Brockton. This is a Rain or Shine event- 2.2 mile walk. Walker registration begins at 10:45 am - Registration Fee: Family $20, Adults (16+) $10, Children under 15 nonperishable food item. For more information please contact Marcia Hoyle Walkama at 508-587-3257

Become a Volunteer Tutor for School on Wheels of MANo matter your profession, you can make a difference in a the life of a student who has been impacted by homelessness in Brockton, Stoughton, Norwell or New Bedford. Two-part training sessions will be held August 21 through September 28, 2013.For more information visit www.sowma.org or Robin Gilbert, Operations Director at 508-587-9091 email: robin@sowma.org

Knit Night-Brockton Public Library | 304 Main Street, Brockton MA 02301First Tuesday of each month, Sept. 3, Oct. 1, Nov. 5th and Dec. 3rd, 6:30 - 7:30 pm,Small Conference room. Come for an evening of knitting for beginners to advanced to share ideas and knitting knowledge or to just visit with other knittersFor more information, please contact Michelle at 508-580-7890 x305

brocKton KnocKs doWn dIabetes In JuneBy Phillipe Justin, Editor

Diabetes is a condition that affects families from all walks in life and from every nationality. The City of Brockton, given its multicultural population and history, was an ideal place for a diabetes awareness campaign. From June 8th to June 15th, the second annual Brockton Knocks Down Diabetes campaign was launched. It included a series of events that ranged from informative classes to workshops, culminating in a three-mile walk around the Campanelli Stadium and the Brockton High School campus, followed by the 3rd Annual Greater Brockton Health Fair. The events drew hundreds of people, resulting in success for its chief organizers: Leo MacNeil, Cheryl Showstack (consultant with campaign); Alexandra Avediasian (social worker with the Brockton Neighborhood Health Center); Julie Lom RN CDE, Diabetes Education Manager with the Brockton Visiting Nurse Association; and Dorothy A. Slack, RN and Wellness Program Manager for Old Colony Elder Services. It was also a success for its sponsors included Novo Nordisk, Fallon Community Health, HarborOne Bank, the Old Colony YMCA, W.B. Mason, Liberty Mutual, and the Good Samaritan Medical Center, and for Brockton and residents as a whole.

Developing the series of events required much preparation. A task force of more than twenty members was created for this purpose and met monthly starting in October of last year. The trials of implementation were shared among several subcommittees, including one tasked with marketing and communication and a specific one tasked with designing the walk. Speaking with key task members in late June, there is agreement that there have been challenges stemming from last year’s event. A specific hurdle has been the time of year, with many other walks going on in the same time period, as well as its possible conflicts with high school and college graduation dates. Another issue has been gearing the events towards people who aren’t diabetic, as well as determining best methods for promotion of the events to

interfaith communities and more of the immigrant population. Another stated concern involved language barriers that may stop people from attending.

Many of those challenges were addressed in this year’s events, particularly with the reaching out to more of Brockton’s diverse population. I experienced this firsthand by being present for a well-attended event at the Messiah Baptist Church on Legion Parkway; the content of the workshop was translated in Haitian Creole, Cape Verdean Creole, and Spanish for the convenience of people attending. Approximately two hundred people participated in the final walk on Saturday the 15th. The quality of the workshops has attracted the attention of citizens of the town of Plymouth, whom task force members for the events are now consulting.

Task force members attribute much of the success in general to word of mouth. They have met recently to discuss the challenges and successes of this year’s event and how better future events can be made. They are hoping people who wish to learn more about diabetes in the meantime will consult the Old Colony YMCA, which will in the future be formalizing a diabetes prevention program throughout its various centers in a year-round effort. This is in addition to resources currently available, namely established programs in Brockton recognized by the American Diabetes Association. Let all awareness efforts in the future – whether they come in another Brockton Knocks Down Diabetes annual campaign or in some other exercise – be met with similar success. Residents of Brockton and especially those contending with the risks or actual condition of diabetes will be all the more supported.

college college

-21--21-

folIage and fashIonBy Vanessa Lundy, Fashion blogger/ boutique owner

When I think of fall, two things come to mind…Foliage and fashion. The temperature is tolerable and you have the wonderful option of layering. Looking for outfit inspiration? Get it from the warm hues that nature provides like the foliage. These colors are a great base to work around and build your wardrobe for the season. To keep from looking too neutral, you can pair these colors with a touch of bright colors, like forest green with a hint of lime green, burgundy with a hot pink or mustard with orange.

Foliage colors are unisex, so men and young boys can pair that same color pallet with grays, black and navy blue. As for the summer wardrobe; don’t part with them just yet, this is where the fun part comes in. Mixing and matching some of your summer pieces with additional layers will provide you with fun yet season appropriate outfits. This method will push us to be more creative and most importantly prevent us from splurging on a full new wardrobe. The same trick applies for the children’s’ clothing.

Besides a change in season, we now have a change in schedules. With school being back in session our schedules are even more demanding. We want to make sure that we can transition throughout the days in style without having to use up a lot of time. Some Must Have Fall Essentials will help with that:

ladies: A little black dress, blazer, pair of great fitting jeans and a pair of flats

men: A collar shirt, pair of great fitting jeans and a pair of neutral colored shoes

blazer: Whether it is from work to dinner or work to an activity, these pieces are definite time savors and a great starting point.

steal tip: Get coupons for local discount stores in the local papers where these pieces are guaranteed.

How does one choose where to raise a family? In 1987, my husband and I bought our single-family home on

Ford Street in Brockton when our oldest was an infant. My grandmother had lived in Brockton years before, and it appeared to be the best place to get good value for our real estate purchase. Many things have changed since then, but we continue to still feel safe in our neighborhood, with neighbors caring for one another.

Too often Brockton has looked bad in the news. Any city with a diverse population will have some trouble. The violence we’ve all read about this summer is deeply troubling to all of us. But in fact, these incidents have happened in usually peaceful neighborhoods.

Our police force bravely confronts criminal activity every day. But they need residents to help in the fight against crime by coming forward with information. Another Brockton resident told me that in the past someone would show up in her neighborhood and just park there waiting. Then another car would come by and a handoff would happen. Drug dealers know that staying mobile makes them harder to catch. The police cannot patrol everywhere all the time. If you see something suspicious in your neighborhood, report it by calling the regular police number at 508-941-0200. Only by working together can we make it known that criminal activity will not be tolerated here in Brockton.

But that is not the whole story of our City of Champions. The dedicated leadership in Brockton, from the ward councilors to the mayors, has always risen to the challenge of making the most of tight budgets, like the

majority of its residents. Most of the people I’ve known and met in Brockton over the years have been caring and hard working people. From the volunteers that started our community recycling program to the educators in our excellent school system, to the dedicated police officers who work hard to keep us safe and the emergency personnel who attend to us in times of trouble. Brockton is convenient for commuting to work with easy access to major highways and the commuter rail line. The diverse businesses in Brockton, with supermarkets and other local stores, plus D.W. Field Park make it a comfortable and convenient place to live.

Our youngest just graduated in June from Brockton High School and will be attending a top university to study engineering. His education at Brockton High School made this possible. I’m proud to tell people about the high caliber teachers and guidance counselors in our schools, and that Brockton High School has been nationally acclaimed by U.S. News & World Report as one of the Top High Schools in the country.

Today, Brockton offers more educational opportunities than ever before. Whether a child struggles with school, or excels and needs to be challenged, our teachers work hard to help each child. These excellent resources are not found everywhere. Being economically disadvantaged is difficult, but not insurmountable. We can choose to only see the bad things happening to and around us, or we can take responsibility for our lives and reach out to our neighbors. Working together, we can make a difference.

the good people of brocKton: neIghbors WorKIng hard to raIse our famIlIesBy Deborah Rowell, Brockton Resident

For your fridge:

Fall ResourcesSchool Department

» Brockton School Department 43 Crescent St, Brockton, MA 02301 Tel. 508-580-7000

» Brockton Public Schools - Registration and Parent Information 43 Crescrent St, Brockton, MA 02301 Tel. 508-580-7950

RESOURCE CATEGORY

» James Rober-Photography Braintree, MA Tel 508-944-1285 Photographer with more than 25 years of experience. Specializes in portraits, weddings, events and more. Visit www.jimroberphotography.com for more information.

53 Plymouth Street • Brockton, MA 02302 508.427.9010 • www.themoreyouearn.net

Brockton

Housing

Authority

© 2012

NAMED TO NEW YORK LIFE’S EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

Rodney Kornegay Tel. 508-279-4462 rtkornegay@ft.newyorklife.com New York Life Insurance Company 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010

.

Brockton, MA July, 2013 – Rodney Kornegay has been named a member of the 2013 Executive Council of New York Life Insurance Company. Members of the Executive Council are among the most successful of New York Life’s elite sales force of [11,900] licensed agents. Kornegay has been a New York Life agent since 2012, and is associated with New York Life’s Boston General Office in Bridgewater. Rodney Kornegay is a graduate of Brockton High School. After high school he attended College of St. Joseph (VT) where he graduated with a B.A in Management and a B.A in Finance. He has served as a volunteer for local Junior Achievement Program working with the youth which are the future leaders of tomorrow. Bates 510863

Rodney KornegayTel. 508-279-4462

-23-

neW begInnIngsBy Michelle Pinto, Parent Editor

With the beginning of school and fall, what better time of the year to kick off a couple of new beginnings in our magazine and at The Family Center?

The Junior Edition: Celebrating Our Youth with a New Junior Section Beginning with this issue, we are including a new section called The Junior Edition. These pages are dedicated to showcase work done by the children, youth and teens in our community. Please encourage your child to submit his or her creative work to the magazine. It can be a drawing, creative writing, painting, or sculpture.

Works should be submitted digitally and emailed to magazine@ccbrockton.org noting on the subject line: JUNIOR EDITION. It can also be mailed or brought to The Family Center at 18 Perkins St., Brockton, MA 02302. Art work, creative writing should be on an 8-1/2 inch x 11 inch paper. Please include your name, telephone number and your child’s name and age. We would love to shine a spotlight on the future leaders of our community.

brocKton parents magazIne presents :

THE JUNIOR EDITION

JunIor edItIon artWorK submIssIon

Isabella Laboy - Clown Fish (top)Leika Rios - My corn muffin (bottom)

Elizabeth Wilson-- Ballerinas(top)Love, Peace & Sunshine (bottom)

-24-

safe routes to school - W.o.W. By Jane E. Feroli, Specialist for Parent Engagement, Brockton Public Schools

Our Brockton elementary schools will begin its 6th year of Safe Routes to School - Walk on Wednesdays program with a kick-off event on Wednesday, September 25, 2013.

The program started with two schools in 2008 and the following year three more schools join the walking program. Students and parents from the Brookfield, Davis, Downey, Hancock and Kennedy Schools are out there most every Wednesday during the fall and spring walking to school. Rain, snow, sleet or hail did not stop many from walking!

In five years, we have had 18,218 students walk to school as part of the WOW program. Many parents accompany them as they are part of our walking schools buses. Some parents have walked with over a dozen students as they pick them up along the way. What a fun, healthy way to start your day of school. Come and join the fun!

The dates for the Fall 2013 Walk on Wednesdays program are: September 25, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, and November 6, 13. Make sure students sign in at the registration table when they arrive at the school, they could win a prize at their school for being the Walker of the Week! Fun facts:

» October is International Walk to School Month.

» International Walk to School Day is Wednesday, October 9.

» International Walk to School Week is October 7-11.

Students also receive a copy of the monthly Fit Families newsletter. It features many healthy tips and activities to do with your family to keep active. It also features many fitness programs that are going on in our community. Would you like a chance to win a raffle prize each month? Complete the bottom portion and return it to school for a chance to win.

For more information, questions about the program please contact Jane E. Feroli, Specialist for Parent Engagement, Brockton Public Schools at 508-894-4328.

Brookfield, Davis, Downey, Hancock and Kennedy Elementary Schools

SAVE THE FALL DATES! Safe Routes to School

“WOW!” ~ Walk on Wednesdays

FALL 2013 September 25, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

& November 6, 13 International Walk to School Day is Wednesday, October 9, 2013

International Walk to School Week is October 7-11, 2013

October is International Walk to School Month Walk to school, get in shape, help the environment

& learn how to be a safe walker,

and be part of our Fit Families Program!

Jane Feroli, BPS Specialist for Parent Involvement 508-894-4328

Brockton Public Schools Parents’ Academy Workshops 2013 – 2014

September 16 MO North Zone: Back to School Bingo & Information Night Hancock 6:00 p.m. 18 WE South Zone: Back to School Bingo & Information Night Davis 6:00 p.m. 25 WE Writing Workshop: Julianne Andrade, BPS George 6:00 p.m. October 1 TU SPED 101: Everything You Need to Know - BPS Special Education Administrators Angelo 6:00 p.m. 3 TH Parent Strategies: Is Anyone Home? – Operation Divinity - Brockton Police Dept. Arnone 6:00 p.m. 4 FR Welcome to the 2013 – 2014 School Year Gilmore 9:00 a.m. 8 TU Parents as First Teachers Workshop: Families First Arnone 6:00 p.m. 10 TH Welcome to the 2013 – 2014 School Year in Haitian Creole: Families First Baker 6:00 p.m. 11 FR Raising A Reader Parent Workshop Gilmore 9:00 a.m. 15 TU Welcome to the 2013 – 2014 School Year in Spanish: Families First George 6:00 p.m. 16 WE Fit Families Night – Zumba Kennedy 6:00 p.m. 18 FR Welcome to the 2013 – 2014 School Year Barrett Russell 9:00 a.m. 22 TU Parent Engagement Workshop in Spanish: Families First George 6:00 p.m. 23 WE Making the Most of Math: Heather Ronan, BPS Hancock 6:00 p.m. 23 WE BPS SPED Dept.: Sensory Processing and Emotional Regulations Angelo 6:00 p.m. 29 TU Bullies, Targets & Bystanders Workshop: Families First Arnone 6:00 p.m. 30 WE PA & Title 1: Family Game Night Brookfield 6:00 p.m. November 1 FR Know Your Child: Temperament & Development Workshop: Families First Gilmore 9:00 a.m. 4 MO Northeast Zone: 2014 - 2015 Kindergarten Showcase Baker 6:00 p.m. 5 TU Parent Engagement Topics in Haitian Creole: Families First Baker 6:00 p.m. 6 WE “Use the Force, Luke!” Tips for Behavior Management for Parents: Charlie Appelstein Arnone 6:00 p.m. 8 FR Parent Literacy Workshop Barrett Russell 9:00 a.m. 13 WE Children’s Learning Styles Workshop: Families First Arnone 6:00 p.m. 14 TH Northwest Zone: 2014 - 2015 Kindergarten Showcase Angelo 6:00 p.m. 15 FR Parent & Child Literacy Activity Workshop Gilmore 9:00 a.m. 18 MO notMYkid Presentation - Officer Nancy Leedberg, BPD Baker 6:00 p.m. 19 TU Family Night: Pumpernickel Puppet Show Paine – ALC 6:00 p.m. 25 MO Fit Families Night – Yoga: Lees Yunits George 6:00 p.m. 26 TU South Zone: Kindergarten 2014 - 2015 Showcase Kennedy 6:00 p.m.

The eighth year of the Parents’Academy Workshop Series are held at the: Angelo Elementary School 472 North Main Street Brockton MA 02301 Arnone Elementary School 135 Belmont Street Brockton MA 02301 Baker Elementary School 45 Quincy Street Brockton MA 02301 Barrett Russell Kindergarten Center 45 Oakdale Street Brockton MA 02301 Brookfield Elementary School 135 Jon Drive Brockton MA 02302 Davis K - 8 School 380 Plain Street Brockton MA 02302 Downey Elementary School 55 Electric Avenue Brockton MA 02302 George Elementary School 180 Colonel Bell Drive Brockton MA 02301 Gilmore Early Childhood Center 150 Clinton Street Brockton MA 02302 Hancock Elementary School 125 Pearl Street Brockton MA 02301 Huntington Elementary School 1121 Warren Ave Brockton MA 02301 Kennedy Elementary School 900 Ash Street Brockton MA 02301 Paine – Adult Learning Center 211 Crescent Street Brockton MA 02302 Raymond K - 8 School 125 Oak Street Brockton MA 02301 South Middle School 105 Keith Avenue Extension Brockton MA 02301 West Middle School 271 West Street Brockton MA 02301

For the evening workshops the doors open at 6:00 p.m. for registration. Programs begin at 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. For the family nights the doors open at 6:00 p.m. for registration. Programs begin at 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For the morning workshops the doors open at 9:00 a.m. for registration. Programs begin at 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Free day care is provided for the evening workshops.

Pre-K students are welcome to attend the morning workshops with their parents. Literacy activities will be provided for the children by B.P.S. Early Childhood teachers during the Gilmore parent workshops. Free day care is provided for the Barrett Russell workshops.

To sign up to be on the email contact list or for additional information contact: Jane Feroli, B.P.S. Specialist for Parent Engagement at 508-894-4328 or email: janeeferoli@bpsma.org

-26-

The Family Center

Calendar of Events

Mondays: Belly Dancing 7:00PM-8:00PM @ 18 Perkins StreetWear something comfortable and come prepared to have fun. There will be skirts veils and finger clappers available to borrow. Bring the kids and have fun with your family!

Tuesdays: Workshops for Adults / Drop-in Play Group for Kids 10:30AM-12:00PM @ the Keith School, 175 Warren Ave Each week features a different themed workshop for parents. Children socialize with other children in a creative activity. (Parents/guardians must stay for children to play)

Wednesdays: Kids’ Corner11:00AM-12:30PM @ the Keith School, 175 Warren AveParents and children having fun socializing. Crafts, reading and more. For children 18 months to 31/2 years old and their parent or guardian!

Thursday: Brockton Reads Together 10:30AM-12:00PM @ the Keith School, 175 Warren AveParents learn different learning techniques and children leave with a borrowed book. Join us for fun and adventure. (Parents/guardians must stay.)

1st & 3rd Thursday of the month: Get Out, Get Active, Get Connected!5:30PM- 7:00PM @Lincoln Technical Institute -365 Westgate DriveActivities, reading, and much more! Share a light meal with your children and other families. Information sessions for adults.

Thursdays: Read with Me & Play with Me6:00PM–7:00PM @ 18 Perkins StreetFor children from 4 to 10 years old and their parents/caregivers. There will be arts and crafts, stories time, and songs. Please call to register.

2nd Saturday of the month: Let’s get messy12:00PM-1:30PM @ 18 Perkins StreetAre your kids bored at home, especially on weekends? We have a great idea: bring your children and their friends and let’s get messy!

3rd Saturday of the Month: Scrapbooking with Mom12:30PM – 1:30PM @ 18 Perkins StreetMeet other mothers and daughters, and make beautiful keepsakes! Come join the fun! As the pictures will show, they won’t stay young forever!

3rd Saturday of the month: Dominos Time5:00PM-7:00PM @ 18 Perkins StreetWe invite our community to come play dominos with us! Meet new friends and relax with your children! We’ll have some children activities too!

For more information on any of these programs or to register, please call the Family Center at 508-857-0272.

at Community Connections of BrocktonandSatellite at The Keith School

at Community Connections of Brocktonand Satellite at The Keith School

Accepting Applications Now!. Dental Assisting . Heating, Ventilation & AC. Medical Assisting. Practical Nurse Program Day & Evening. Evening Adult Continuing Education Classes

Regi

ster

o

nline: www.sti-tech.org

SOUTHEASTERNTECHNICAL INSTITUTE

OPEN HOUSEDate: March 5, 2013

Time: 5:00 - 7:00 P.M.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

brocktonparentsad.pdf 1 1/24/2013 2:02:46 PMVisit ChooseBMCHP.org to learn more.

Some just inspire the hearts of others, and push us to do our own personal best. BMC HealthNet Plan is home to legions of heroes, and we’re stronger for it.

NOT ALL HEROESCAN FLY

CASTLE: A Program of

High Point Treatment Center www.castlekids.org

20 Meadowbrook Road Brockton, MA 02301

ADMISSIONS: 508-638-6000

ADOLESCENT: Ages 13-17 on 24-bed unit

SPECIALTIES: Addiction abuse, which may be accompanied by mental health issues

INSURANCE: Most insurances accepted, including Mass Health. Sliding fee scale.

CASTLE is a short-term 24-hour addiction treatment program for adolescents who abuse or are dependent on alcohol or drugs, which may be accompanied by

mental health issues

Monday, November 4th 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Brockton Campus Student Center

Attend for a chance to win a FREE 3-credit course

valued at $500.00RSVP today at massasoit.edu/openhouse

Meet with representatives from Financial Aid, Admissions, Student Life, Student Services, Academic Counseling and Academic programs.

Brockton Canton Middleborough

Steward. The New Health Care.TM

This is the New Health Care.

235 North Pearl Street, Brockton, MA 02301 508-427-3000 Steward.org

The birth you want is closer than you think. We offer a world-class team including 8OB/GYN’s and 6 Midwives who deliver approximately 1,000 babies each year.Children’s Hospital Physicians staff our Level II Nursery and all our amenities,including interpreter services, are designed to personalize your care for the best birthexperience possible. 

Visit our website to see new videos of some of our providers atwww.goodsamaritanmedical.org/maternity or call 508-427-3712 for a private tour ofthe Birthing Center at Good Samaritan Medical Center.