Midweek Messenger - Kimberton Waldorf School

November 17, 2010Midweek MessengerDear Kimberton Community,Tonight the Governing Team and Board of Trustees will meet for a regularly scheduled monthly meeting. Much ofthis meeting is open to the public, and we urge you to attend to gain some understanding of the work of the Board,and to hear what other community members thoughts might be.The Governing Team will be presenting a draft of the “big moving parts” of the 2011-12 budget. The draft focuseson projected enrollment; tuition revenue; the amount available for financial aid; a sense of a large bottom line numberfor salaries; and our expectations for fund-raising and other revenue. These early budget iterations give us asense of where we expect to be financially in the coming year, in terms of large budget numbers.Our goal tonight is to thoroughly discuss the draft budget, enabling the Governing Team and Treasurer to be readyto produce a budget for consideration in the December Board meeting that will be formally ratified in January.Also on the agenda for tonight’s Board meeting is a discussion of Board best practices and committee structure,and a discussion of a proposed Business Manager job description which attempts to make plain the sharing of administrativeresponsibilities with the Governing Team.On Thursday this week Jon McAlice will again be visiting Kimberton Waldorf School. The Governing Team will beworking with Jon in a mini-retreat to continue visioning the future of KWS.As always, the Governing Team actively seeks your feedback. Weare available by appointment through Lower School Secretary KayAlexander, or by email directed to governingteam@kimberton.org.We are also available on a drop-in basis on Friday, November 19and Friday, December 10 from 3:30 to 4:15 pm in the Middle SchoolConference room. We will not hold office hours on Friday, November26 (Thanksgiving holiday), Friday, December 3 (Craft Show Friday),or Friday, December 17 (early dismissal for winter break.)Thank you for taking an active role in our school,Allyn, Carmen, Kevin, and MaryContact the Governing Team:email: governingteam@kimberton.orgmail: Governing Team, Kimberton Waldorf Schoolphone: 610-933-3635 ext. 110 (message only)PO Box 350 Kimberton, PA 19442Inside this issue:Upcoming Events…….…...2Meeting Mr. Charles.….…..3Swept Away………….…….4Perfect Pairings.…………..5School News……..………..6Notes from the Office &Of Interest………..….…….7Classifieds.......................8-10On the Calendar………….11

M idWeek MessengerMeetingMr. CharlesBy Andrew Kreider, Current ParentP a ge 3From atop a rock in the creek behind the lower school comes: “A toad –I found a toad!” The other children, some of them full-day kindergartnersand some of them older students just arriving for aftercare, grasp their bagelsas they walk/jog/bolt to see what their playmate has discovered. I’vejust arrived to pick up my daughter, who pleads “Dad, can I stay for a few more minutes???” beforeanswering her own question and running off to the creek to join her friends.This is the typical afternoon with Charles Barbieri (“Mr. Charles”), Kimberton Waldorf School’snew afternoon kindergarten teacher and aftercare program director. An ecologist by educationand a Waldorf teacher by training, Mr. Charles understands the importance of outdoor play as keyto a holistic education, and the children in his care may find themselves exploring campus on awalk, visiting the goats and chickens, traipsing through the creek, constructing an extensivegnome village using nature’s supplies, or simply enjoying the autumn sun from the lower schoolplay area.Mr. Charles comes to us most recently from Leshan, China, where he taught college-level oralEnglish classes and supported the development of Waldorf schools. His travels extend to wellover a dozen countries and, he says, he considers himself a “global citizen.” When asked whatperspective these experiences have given him regarding his home country, he shares that theyhave certainly distanced him from mainstream U.S. culture. Through his contributions to earlychildhood and elementary education, he strives to “create a different culture.”His extensive experience at the Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor, Michigan includes chairingthe social inclusion committee, directing the afternoon kindergarten, and teaching ‘mindful parenting’seminars, as well as stepping in as a substitute class teacher from time to time. He has publishedseveral articles on early childhood matters and is excited to be working toward a strongerfull-day kindergarten program here at Kimberton, as well as engaging parents through classesbased upon Kim John Payne’s Simplicity Parenting.Mr. Charles’ curriculum vitae speaks for itself, but the true assessment of his presence in ourcommunity comes from the children: the energetic boys so grateful for a ‘rough and tumble’ playmateand positive male role model, the older children who appreciate the afternoon rhythm – asmooth continuation of their school day, and – in my case - the daughter who used to say “Pickme up early, Dad!” and now begs for a few more minutes of afternoon fun. A very warm welcometo you, “Mr. Charles” Barbieri!There are still a few openings in the afternoon kindergarten program; if you would like more information,please contact the Admissions Office at (610)933-3635 x. 108.

P a ge 4M idWeek MessengerSwept AwayBy Heather Gustafson (current parent) and Shay Gustafson (grade 3)On Friday November 5th the third grade parents and students assembled in the lovely setting of theGarden building to meet Dr. Sam Moyer, a Broomsquire since 1977, and to learn to make a broom! It wasa wonderful way to end the week. Dr. Moyer showed us how to assemble a broom with the broomcornwhich had been grown in the school garden. The third grade had prepared the broomcorn for broommaking the week before in Gardening class. Broomcorn is a type of sorghum (a big grass) that is verytall, looks like corn, but has no ears. The brush on top of the plant is used. As Dr. Moyer described hiscraft, he demonstrated the use of a portable treadle/winder machine that he invented to assist him inholding the cord taut as he adds brush by hand to assemble the broom.It was a lot of fun making our own brooms! We had instructions and Mrs. Martin was very helpful in showingus what to do next, if we forgot. The hardest part was weaving the cord in a pattern through thebroomcorn from the brush down to the handle while trying to keep the cord stretched tight the whole time.The best part was being able to use the broom right away to help clean up! Thank you Dr. Moyer, Mrs.Boyd and Mrs. Martin for our broom making experience!Easy Ways to Help the Garden ProgramHave you been thinking about removing that overgrown evergreen from your property? Do it in time for the craft fair!The Garden program needs evergreen branches of all colors to make fresh wreaths for the craft fair. KWS cancome and cut the branches for you. Call Celia Martin at 610-933-3635 ext 158. Please help! We need a LOT ofbranches!Don't put those used canning jars and spice bottles in the recycling bin! Donate them to the Gardening program instead!We can use plastic or glass spice containers of any size and also any size canning jars. (jars made for homecanning such as Ball or Kerr, no pasta sauce jars, please) Drop them off any time at the garden building or in one ofthe offices.

M idWeek MessengerP a ge 5Did you knowthat Chester Countyis one of the richest counties inthe entire United States?Yet one out of tenpeople here go hungryeverydaybecause theydon’t have enough moneyto buyfood.You can help!The 11 th grade will be placing boxes in the hallways outside of the classrooms for donations of non-perishable food items.These items will be donated to the Food Bank in West Chester for distribution before Thanksgiving. The deadline for contributionsis Monday, November 22. All non-perishables are welcome, including canned and boxed foods. Especially appreciatedare pasta sauces, breakfast cereal and canned meat such as tuna. Let’s help to feed Chester County!Perfect Pairings - The Perfect Mix of Ambiance, Fundraisingand FunTickets were sold out months ahead of time. Anticipation ran high as gift after gift after gift came pouringin. The waiting list grew out of proportion for this year's Perfect Pairings, which took place on Saturday,November 6 at the Kimberton Inn.The warmth of atmosphere and friends meeting together outside of the school was such a delightful thingto see! The silent auction tables drew lots of interest as small, friendly bidding wars took place. The dinnerwas fresh and mmm, so delicious. Lots of people opened their wallets during the live auction and MikeRuhl tinkled away on the keys of the piano for hours and hours."It was an amazing event!" one guest said."Wow! I had no idea the event was so immense!" another said."Everything was wonderful! Kudos to the committee," yet anotheradded.Early estimates show that we grossed $60,000 through this year'sevent. We are already gearing up for next year and invite any andall who would like to get involved to contact Mary Hirsch atmhirsch@kimberton.org. Look for the online auction coming nextweek!

P a ge 6M idWeek MessengerSchool NewsForminga DiversityCommitteeA number of staff, faculty, and parents have expressed interest in forming a diversity committee atKimberton Waldorf School, with the intention of cultivating awareness around, and actively addressing,issues of diversity and social inclusion within our school. Our hope is to explore ways in which to build avibrant and diverse school community that embraces faculty, students, and parents who represent a widearray of cultures, races, economic backgrounds, religious affiliations and sexual orientations.We warmly welcome anyone who feels inspired to take up this exciting work at our school to join us forour first meeting on Wednesday, December 1, 2010 at 7:30pm in the HS Library. Please RSVP to(610)933-3635 x.108 if you are able to attend, and come prepared to share thoughts, questions, concerns,and dreams for the future. If you are unable to attend this first meeting, but are interested in joiningthe Diversity Committee, please email admissions@kimberton.org with that information as well.UpcomingCraftingSessionsNovember 18 from 8am - 12pm - Paper lanternsPlease join us to create crafts to sell at the Village Shop at this year's Craft Show. All proceeds benefit theTerry Neville Fund. Come learn and have fun! All are welcome. Sponsored by KWS class of 2019 (thefourth grade) Any questions? Call Kristen Conway or Lauren Eustis.JoinUs for Advent TeaThe Season of Advent begins the weekend following Thanksgiving Day Weekend. The KWS community isinvited to attend three short, but very sweet, Monday morning assemblies followed by a Community Tea.This year, the assemblies will take place on November 29, December 6 and 13 at 8:15 am. Please considerbringing a baked good or fruit to share with the community at the tea following the assembly. Join usto share the warmth and light of the season.SpringCoachingVacanciesThe Athletic Department will need middle school boys and girls lacrosse coaches this spring. If you areinterested or know of a good candidate, please contact me at my school extension, 131.Ed Matthews/Athletic DirectorCondolencesCondolences to the Flores family for the loss of Karen’s mother, Wanda Faye Scott.

P a ge 7M idWeek MessengerNotes fromthe OfficeDear KWS Parents,For the first time we used e-mail to notify parents of their fall conference day and time instead of lettersthrough the mail, and from our perspective it seems to have been a success! As always, you’re welcometo give us your feedback. Looking ahead, Kindergarten conferences will take place in January,and grades 1-6 will have spring conferences in March.Photo Retake Day – The photographer will return on Monday, November 29 to take photos of the studentswho were absent on November 2, and to retake any photos that were unsatisfactory. If your childis having a retake, please send in the original photo package (which you will receive soon) on November29 so it can be returned to the photographer. If you need a payment envelope or if you have any questions,please call the school office (610-933-3635, ext. 1).Kay Alexander, Lower/Middle School Secretary, ext. 1Janie Minogue, High School Secretary, ext. 2Of InterestFall 2010 ConcertSaturday, November 20 at 4:30pmRose Hall, Camphill Kimberton 1601 Pughtown Road, Kimberton PA 19442Featuring Hsiao Ming Chen, cello and Milena Urban, piano. The program includes pieces by FrancoisCouperin, Samuel Baber, J.S. Bach, Frederic Chopin, and Manuel de Falla. Donations are accepted atthe door.Three Eurythmy Workshops “In the Advent Mood”Friday, December 3, 10, 17, 20109:00 - 10:00 amRose Hall, Kimberton HillsPlease join us at this wonderful time of year as we move together "Welcome all wonders in one sight"from Crashaw's Ode (Christmas Poem), and familiarize ourselves with one of the December verses fromRudolf Steiner's Soul Calendar. Beginners are welcome. Please bring soft-soled shoes and a willingspirit. The fee for all 3 workshops is $45.Please call Linda Larson to pre-register by Tuesday, November 30 and with any questions.Building a Sustainable Kimberton CommunityPublic Forum—November 20 from 10am-3pm Donation—$10.00 + lunchLocation: Camphill Village, Rose Hall, Pughtown Road, Kimberton, PA 19442A Continuing Series for Public Input to Improve & Preserve Kimberton VillageFor more information, call (610)220-6172

M idWeek MessengerP a ge 8ClassifiedsTarlow Chiropractic My name is Nancy Tarlow and my daughter is in the 1st grade class. I am a chiropractorwho integrates nutrition and energy healing work (Reiki and others). I've worked extensively withkids with a variety of acute and chronic health problems, pregnancy (Webster certified since '98), wellness(prevention), and have seen many adult health issues resolve as well. My office is located at 239 ChurchSt. in Phoenixville and I'm currently accepting new clients into the practice. I'm happy to provide a consultationto those that are interested but unsure if this is the right path for them. 610-310-6795.www.TarlowChiropractic.com.Doula Services Empower yourself with the knowledge and support of a certified Doula, a mother of 4children, to make your baby's delivery one you'll never forget. I would be honored to help you with thisjourney. Call Hilla at (610) 827-7181 or email hilla.haut@gmail.com.For Rent A charming and well maintained Victorian Twin situated on a quiet street in Spring City. A shortride to Kimberton Waldorf School, Phoenixville and Route 422. 3-4 bedrooms, 1 ½ bathrooms, secludedbackyard, front and back porch & patio. Available immediately. For more information contact John at(610)644-4627.Doll Making There's still room! Are you feeling stressed? Are you looking for the perfect gift for a child (oradult who is young at heart?). Why not relax in front of a fire with a small group of people making yourown heavy baby! There are two spots still available for Sunday, December 12, 10 a.m. - whenever at thehome of Mary Hirsch. We will be making heavy babies filled with organic millet scented with lavender.Choose skin and clothing color. The cost is $50. Call 732-232-5159 to save your spot!Make Your Own Naturescape Have you seen the naturescapes in the school store? You can makeyours this year! Make a lovely water scene with ducks, turtles and frogs or a woodland scene with bunnies,bees, squirrels, logs and more! The naturescapes sell for $200-$300 each. Sign up for this class andyou will receive all of the materials, instructions, and go home with a two-prong felting needle andnaturescape valued at $200! The cost to participate is $200. Limited to 5 participants. Sunday, December19, 10 a.m. - whenever! Call Mary Hirsch at 732-232-5159 to save your spot!A Toy Garden Wooden Toys… Dolls & Puppets… Books & Music… Dress-Up & Silks… Lunch Baskets…Arts & Craft Supplies… Woolens & Rain Gear… Children’s Furniture. Quick Shipping & Free GiftWrap! www.atoygarden.comQuality Home Repairs Honest, professional workmanship. Interior/exterior: carpentry, drywall, painting,basement finishing, decks, additions, etc. Environmentally conscious. Reasonably priced. Many local references.Call Brett Walker – h. 610-429-1123 or cell 484-678-1272.Acupuncture, Acutonics, Harmonic Sound Healing, Reiki, Kinesiology and Homeopathy.Restoring Health by Healing Body, Mind and Spirit. KWS alum parents Sue Yatsky, L.Ac., Dipl. Acup. andBarbara Smith, Reiki Master. Indigo Holistic Healing Center. Visit us at www.IndigoCenter.net or call us at(610)935-3455. Healing body, mind and spirit … naturally.Duffy Real Estate Your Key to Quality ServiceTom Burlington, KWS parent and Realtor Direct: 484-868-3072, Office: 610-647-3000

M idWeek MessengerP a ge 10Classifieds, Con’t.Introducing Elemental Shiatsu to the Kimberton CommunityGreetings! I am Brendan Tracy, KWS alum and now Kindergarten parent. It has been very exciting this month toopen my Shiatsu Practice, Elemental Shiatsu, located in downtown Kimberton at 2140 Kimberton Rd. (above KimbertonWhole Foods). I am a fully insured Shiatsu Practitioner coming from the International School ofShiatsu and the Camphill School of Curative Education, (which has helped provide me with an anthroposophicalviewpoint when treating the Human Being). I see clients by appointment only on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons,in 60 or 90 minute sessions. Most questions, such as "Shiatsu? What is it?" can be answered by visiting mywebsite at: http://elementalshiatsu.wordpress.com/ or can be asked directly by calling: 484.883.6749; or emailing:brendantracy@myabmp.com Mention this ad when booking your first appointment and save $15! Be well!HOME REPAIRS Camphill Special School (Beaver Run) employee wanting to help area residents with their interiorand exterior repairs. Carpentry, plumbing, drywall, painting, gutters, yard work, clean-outs, etc. Available eveningsand weekends. Reasonable rates. Please contact David at 610-301-2381.SEVEN STARS SHOP New!! The special Kimberton knitted wool winter hat in KWS blue and whitewith a soft fleecy lining—so chic, so warm, so unpicky. Great for gifts or a gift to yourself! Come see at theshop—quantities limited.Open MWF 8 – 4.Closed at 1pm on Wednesday, Nov. 24.Open Friday & Saturday of Thanksgiving Weekend 10-4.We have Sterling Chocolates… mmmm… handmade and delish!Try the new chocolate dipped organic Newman’s ‘Oreo” in regular or mint.Advent calendars and advent cards are here and going quickly!Sweatshirts are here—have you been waiting?*New pottery* *linens* *knitting books* *beautiful handknit shawls* *Childrens books from Floris**more dolls* *holly babies* *jump ropes* *finger strings* *mysteries and adventure books for 10 and up*Felters and Knitters: We need more well made consignment items!! We have requests for hats, mittens,scarves, baby items. Call Peg Savage at the Shop 610-933-3635, ext 111 or at home 610-469-9839The Shop looks bright and cheerful---a warm spot on a cool day. See you at the Shop!!Wolfgang Books 237 Bridge Street, Phoenixville PA… 610-410-5039… www.wolfgangbooks.comAttend our ongoing “Writers at Bridge and Main”presented by Wolfgang Books and hosted by Steel City Coffee House.Saturday, November 20 @ 3 PM Joyce Hinnefeld, Author of Stranger Here BelowSTUDENT READERSHIP PROGRAM1 st visit - 10% off any one book,2 nd visit - 15% off any one book3 rd visit - 20% off any one book4 th visit - 25% off any one book… Come in and sign up today!

P a ge 11M idWeek MessengerOnthe CalendarWednesday, 11/17 White Rose Kindergarten Parent Meeting, 7:30 pm4 th Grade Parent Meeting, 7 pmBoard Meeting, High School Library, 7:30 pmFriday, 11/19Soap-making, Garden Building, 6:00-9:30 pmSaturday, 11/20Story Hour, Rosebud Garden, 9:00-10:00 amSunday, 11/21Open House, 1:00 pmMonday, 11/227 th Grade Parent Meeting, 7:30 pmWednesday, 11/24 Grandparents Day – School Assembly 10:45 (Festive Dress)Noon DismissalThursday, 11/25 & Thanksgiving Break – No SchoolFriday, 11/26Monday, 11/29Advent Assembly, High School Gym, 8:15 amCommunity Advent Tea, 8:30 amPhoto Retakes for students absent on November 2Friday, 12/3 &Saturday 12/4Artisans Village/Craft ShowEARN EASY MONEY FOR KWSKWS is collecting box tops from specially marked products with the "BOXTOPS FOR EDUCATION" label.Visit www.boxtops4education.com to see the full list of products or simply look for a label that looks like this:Drop off boxes are located in themiddle school office, the highschool office and kitchen.