Thursday, December 17, 2015

Titan Cafe!

The Gunn TOSA team transformed the Gunn Staff Room into "Titan Cafe" for Finals.  A place where staff could go to relax, connect with colleagues, work, grade and get some caffeine and snacks.  The PTSA generously provided the coffee and snacks.  It was the perfect end to a great first semester!

SELPA 1:  Emotional Regulation




SELPA 1:  Let's Talk



Thursday, November 12, 2015

ACS:  How Mindfulness Meditation Can Help Relieve Stress

By:  Katie Luce, LMFT, ACS School Site Supervisor
Children and adolescents may have fewer responsibilities than their parents, but childhood and the teen years can still be one of the most stressful periods in life. The demands of school, homework, extracurricular activities, and even daily family living can make children and adolescents feel overwhelmed and distracted. In addition, they haven’t had as much practice managing stress and developing coping strategies as adults, and are therefore less resilient.
Even though we all have busy schedules, it’s important to take a little time to appreciate being in the moment, which is what mindfulness meditation is all about. It’s important that adults model how to cope with stress, so our children see how effectively we deal with life’s challenges. In my work with children and adolescents, I have discovered that it is helpful to introduce mindfulness meditation into therapy, as a useful coping strategy for stress and anxiety.
Are you skeptical about the idea of mindfulness meditation, and how it can help you in a concrete way? Do you think of it as “new age” or as a “spiritual practice”? Do you feel you don’t have time to fit it into your daily life? Research over the past decade has shown that a regular meditation practice can actually change the brain, improve grades and concentration and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
What is Mindfulness?
Greater Good Magazine, based out of University of California, Berkeley, states that mindfulness means maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment. Mindfulness also involves acceptance, meaning that we pay attention to our thoughts and feelings without judging them—without believing, for instance, that there’s a “right” or “wrong” way to think or feel in a given moment. When we practice mindfulness, our thoughts tune into what we’re sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future.
Though it has its roots in Buddhist meditation, a secular practice of mindfulness has entered the American mainstream in recent years, in part through the work of Jon Kabat-Zinn and his Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program, which he launched at the University of Massachusetts Medical School in 1979. Since that time, thousands of studies have documented the physical and mental health benefits of mindfulness in general and MBSR in particular, inspiring countless programs to adapt the MBSR model for schools, prisons, hospitals, veterans centers, and beyond.
Mindfulness is a powerful way to handle stress, and is all about living fully in the present moment, without judgment, and with an attitude of kindness and curiosity. It’s about breathing, noticing what’s happening right here and now, sending a gentle smile to whatever you’re experiencing in the moment, and then letting it go. You can be mindful anytime, anywhere, no matter what you’re doing. (www.mindfulnessforteens.com)
Meditation has been proven to reduce “wandering mind,” which is associated with unhappiness; increase empathy; decrease ADHD symptoms; and improve concentration and attention. Two groundbreaking studies by Sara Lazar and her team at Harvard Medical School showed that meditation enhances areas of the brain associated with well-being, self-regulation, and learning—and decreases the volume of the amygdala, which is responsible for fear, anxiety, and stress. (2015, Jamison Monroe, www.psychologytoday.com)
How do you explain how to meditate to your children and practice it yourself? Below are some examples fromwww.kidshealth.org
Meditation and Visualization
Meditation is a way to get quiet, calm, and focused. It trains your mind to slow down, relax, and stay positive. Meditating for just a few minutes a day can help you feel centered, balanced, and more in control, even during the times when you’re not actually meditating.
Making meditation one of your daily routines (like brushing your teeth) can help you feel more grounded when it seems like you’re being pulled in a million directions.
Here are some meditation exercises to try:
Focus on the Breath
Try this as soon as you get home from school:
  • Close your door, set a timer for 3-5 minutes, and find a comfortable place to sit.
  • Close your eyes and focus on your breathing.
  • As you inhale, think about your lungs inflating, your ribs expanding, and the breath moving through your nasal passages.
  • As you exhale, think about your lungs deflating and the breath rushing out of your nasal passages.
  • If your mind starts to wander, calmly say to yourself “thinking” and then turn your attention back to your breath.

Visualize Success
This is a great thing to do when you feel stressed about something that’s coming up like a big test, sports game, or performance:
  • Set a timer for 3-5 minutes. Find a comfortable place to sit.
  • Close your eyes and picture things going well.
  • Visualize yourself feeling prepared and in control as you sit down for your test, or kicking the winning goal in soccer, or landing the lead role at your drama audition.

Visualization doesn’t take the place of actual preparation. But it can help you feel confident and manage the negative thinking that sometimes goes with stress. Mindfulness meditation is a valuable tool that is teaching us a lot about how the brain works and offers relief for people who suffer from a variety of issues. There are no negative side effects to mindfulness meditation, as there is only an upside. I am convinced that we can all benefit from incorporating mindfulness meditation practice into our daily lives.
Resources
Here are some meditation apps:
Stop, Breathe, and Think. I like this app because it opens with a short “interview” where the user selects several words to describe how they are feeling, and then the app recommends guided meditations for their current state.
Smiling Mind
NatureScenes: Provides a variety of calming music which can be used while practicing mindfulness meditation
www.innerhealthstudio.com – a web site with free guided meditations
Further Recommendations 
Parenting Your Stressed Child.  Michelle L. Bailey, MD.  2011.  Oakland, CA:  New Harbinger Publications.
The Mindful Child.  Susan Kaiser-Greenland.  2010.  New York:  Free Press.  2006.  American Academy of Pediatrics.
Building Resilience in Children and Teens:  Giving Kids Roots and Wings.  Kenneth R. Ginsburg, MD, MS Ed, FAAP. 2014
Mindfulness for Beginners: Reclaiming the Present Moment – And Your Life.  Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. 2012
For more information about mindfulness and brain function, access the article written by Tom Ireland at www.scientificamerican.com.
http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/guest-blog/what-does-mindfulness-meditation-do-to-your-brain/


Adolescent Counseling Services is a community non-profit, which provides vital counseling services on nine secondary campuses at no charge to students and their families. To learn more about our services please visit the ACS website at www.acs-teens.org. ACS relies on the generosity of community members to continue offering individual, family, and group counseling to over 1,500 individuals annually. ACS provides critical interventions and mental health services, building a better future for tomorrow. If you are interested in helping to support our efforts, do not hesitate to call to make a donation. It goes a long way in helping teenagers find their way!

Thursday, October 29, 2015

SELPA 1:  Alternative Pathways Through High School



SELPA 1 Event: "Let's Talk"




Thursday, October 1, 2015

WHAT IS "HOMECOMING"? 

What Gunn Events are Planned and Why Should You Care?
Homecoming is a long-standing tradition at many American high schools and colleges. It is a celebration of the school community and is a chance for current students to join with returning alumni and the rest of the school community to develop "school spirit" and camaraderie.
Here are two of many links to a full description of the American Homecoming tradition:
Each year, Gunn High School plans an entire week of events to bring students together to get to know each other, have fun, and develop a sense of belonging to the Gunn community. Homecoming week is organized primarily by the Gunn Student Activities Center (Lisa Hall, director) with help from the student leaders of each class (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior Student Councils). Staff and teachers try to reduce the workload during that time, and many take part in the games and events themselves.
This year, Homecoming week is the week of October 19 and ends with the dance on Saturday October 24. The theme this year is “The Happiest Week on Earth“; a full list of events follows, but highlights include:
  • Competitions between the freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior classes held daily at brunch and lunch;
  • Students and staff will dress up in different costumes every day;
  • Night Rally: Thursday, October 22nd, is the climax of the week, with float stuffing (2-7:00pm), and the fantastic Night Rally at 8 pm in the Titan Gym, with doors opening at 7:45pm. Tickets are required for everyone.  Please watch for school announcements to know when they go on sale.  
  • Dance: Saturday 24, semi-formal. Date not needed! (Dress code enforced! page 26 of the student handbook: http://gunn.pausd.org/sites/default/files/15-16%20Gunn%20Handbook.pdf)
  • Boys attire: Khakis, button-down shirt, with or without tie
  • Girls attire: dress but floor-length isn't necessary

For a full description of all the games and events planned, go to the Gunn Website ("For Students" tab, "Student Activities", "Campus Events"): https://sites.google.com/site/gunnstudentactivities/homecoming-week
Homecoming events are communicated broadly and frequently to all the students, in the hopes that each and every student will find an activity that appeals to them. Even if a student does something easy and uncomplicated - like watch the competitive games, dress-up with their class theme, or attend the rally (a favorite, this is when the Air Band contest happens!), come to the football game, or just affix one or two tissue-paper balls to the class float - they are almost assuredly going to experience "school spirit" and feel a part of the community - which is the goal!
According to Ms. Hall, the "top 5" events she suggests students take part in:
  • "Stuff a Bench" game
  • Help build/stuff their class float
  • Attend and watch the night rally
  • Go to Friday's football game and see the class floats at half time
  • Attend the semi-formal dance on Saturday

Encourage your student to attend any all activities, even if "ironically". They will be glad they did!
If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Hall: lhall@pausd.org.

GO GUNN TITANS!!

Senior Class Fundraiser:  Gizdich Ranch Pie Sale


Thursday, September 24, 2015

Not In Our School Week - 9/28-10/2

Movie Nights at Gunn's Spangenberg Theatre!
Two screenings on Gender Stereotyping.  FREE and open to all community members, Gunn parents, students, family and friends
Miss Representation - Tuesday 9/29 6-8pm
A special screening of the award winning documentary film, Miss Representation, is a documentary film focuses on gender stereotyping of females and the negative effects this can have on adolescents and teens.  
The Mask You Live In - Wednesday 9/30 6-8pm
The Mask You Live In, a documentary film premiering at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival, asks the important question: Is American masculinity harming our boys, young men and society at large? Compared to girls, research shows that boys in the U.S. are more likely to be diagnosed with a behavior disorder, prescribed stimulant medications (for ADD/ADHD), fail out of school, binge drink, commit a violent crime, and/or take their own lives. 


SELPA 1 CAC Parent Ed Night:

Suicide Prevention and Grieving - Presented by Charlotte Ross Fisher, who was the founding CEO at the Suicide Prevention & Crisis Center of San Mateo County for over 22 years and was Executive Director of Youth Suicide National Center in Washington, DC.
Wednesday, October 21, 2015, 7 to 9 pm
Covington Elementary School Multipurpose Room
205 Covington, Los Altos 94024  
For more information, see www.selpa1cac.org

Prevención del Suicidio y Duelo - Presentado por Charlotte Ross Fisher, que era el consejero delegado y fundador de la prevención del suicidio y Centro de Crisis del Condado de San Mateo por más de 22 años y fue Director Ejecutivo del Suicidio Juvenil Centro Nacional en Washington, DC.  Será presentado en Inglés.
Miércoles, 21 Octubre  2015, 7 - 9 pm 
en la Escuela Primaria Covington Multi
205 Covington, Los Altos, 94024
Para más información, consulte www.selpa1cac.org

Friday, September 18, 2015

PAUSD Parent Ed Event:  Supporting Your Child During the High School Transition


Thursday, September 10, 2015


Parent Education Evening

Sponsored by the SELPA 1 CAC (www.selpa1cac.org)  All of our events are free and open to anyone who feels they might benefit.  No registration is necessary.

Gunn Lacrosse Team Fundraiser!

Sports Families: Order Personalized Gunn Sports Gear - Order online until September 18

Show your colors and make it PERSONAL with sports gear from 31 Gifts. Gear up for a great season with sports gear that will have you and your student cheering! Choose from a cinch sac, bleacher blanket, zip-top tote bag, large utility tote, or browse the 31 Gifts catalog instead 

Thursday, August 27, 2015

Senior Class Fundraiser: Gizdich Ranch Pie Sale


Support the Class of 2016 by purchasing delicious Gizdich Ranch Pies.  The pies are made from local crops in Gizdich Ranch’s own Watsonville farm kitchen and come to us frozen, complete with easy baking directions. Five varieties to choose from:  Traditional Apple, Dutch Apple, Two Berry, Pumpkin and Apricot.  Both the Dutch Apple and the Pumpkin pies are vegetarian (though not vegan).  All proceeds benefit the Class of 2016 graduation activities.  Eat locally and support our graduating seniors! (To print the order form, click on the image below)

Thursday, May 14, 2015

Conscious Parenting

by Roni Gillenson, LMFT, Program Director of On Campus Counseling Program
As it has been said time and time again that parenting is one of the most challenging jobs.  As we think about how we were raised, what we want to do the same or different in parenting and examine the role models we want to be for our children, we get a clearer picture of the parents we truly want to be.  Needless to say, this is no easy task and takes deep thought, soul searching, bargaining with ourselves, patience, empathy and continually challenging our own values and beliefs.  Just as our partners are not extensions of ourselves (i.e. they can’t read our minds) neither are our children, even though they might look exactly like us when we were kids!  We are their biggest role models.  What we say, how we act – in private and public, how we take care of ourselves – emotionally and physically, how we treat others – family members and friends, is all being watched and, like a video camera, taken in by our children.  The thought of this can be overwhelming!  You might be saying to yourselves, ‘Are you saying I am under a microscope every time I interact with my child, directly and indirectly?  I can’t be perfect!’  Of course you can’t be perfect!  There is no such thing!  We are all human, first and foremost.  However, being the ‘good enough’ parent is the goal here.  Good enough is more than enough!
Donald Winnicott was an English pediatrician and psychoanalyst and probably the first to use the phrase ‘good enough parent’.  He recognized that it was unrealistic to demand perfection of parents, and was interested in finding out what made them ‘good enough’.  He believed that the key to healthy development was rooted in a child’s relationships and interactions with others.
Much of childhood and adolescence is spent testing things out. Kids try out behaviors; teens try out identities. They test their assumptions about the world. If we hold ourselves to a standard of perfection that is unattainable, that sends a message to our kids that making mistakes is not OK. This can make childhood and adolescence an even more stressful and anxiety-filled time. When kids feel there is no room for error, the pressure they place on themselves can be paralyzing and can manifest as anxiety and depression.
When we model for our kids that we try, sometimes fall flat on our faces, and get up and move forward, we help teach them resiliency. When they see us struggle and persevere, we teach them that life may not be easy, but that we have the confidence in ourselves to keep going. When we forgive ourselves and others for falling short, we teach them generosity of spirit and acceptance. When we do all of these things, we teach them that they will be loved based on who they are, not what they achieve.
I believe it begins with you.  

Adolescent Counseling Services is a community non-profit, which provides vital counseling services on nine secondary campuses at no charge to students and their families. To learn more about our services please visit the ACS website at www.acs-teens.org or call Pam Garfield, LCSW Site Director at Gunn High School (650) 849-7919.  ACS relies on the generosity of community members to continue offering individual, family, and group counseling to over 1,500 individuals annually.  ACS provides critical interventions and mental health services, building a better future for tomorrow. If you are interested in helping to support our efforts, do not hesitate to call to make a donation. It goes a long way in helping teenagers find their way!

SELPA 1 CAC Parent Ed

Let's Talk - A chance to ask questions and share ideas, resources, and support with other parents of students with IEPs, 504s, learning differences, mental health challenges, etc.  All are welcome, participants must respect confidentiality.  
Monday June 8, 2015, 7 pm to 9 pm - In the community room of Los Altos Library on San Antonio Road.  Mark your calendars - future meetings will be:  Monday July 13, 10 am to 12 noon, and Monday August 10, 7pm to 9 pm.
Hablemos - Una oportunidad de hacer preguntas y compartir ideas, recursos y apoyo con otros padres de estudiantes con IEP, 504s, diferencias de aprendizaje, problemas de salud mental, etc.Todos son bienvenidos, los participantes deben respetar la confidencialidad.  Será presentado en Inglés.
Lunes 8 Junio, 2015, de 7 pm a 9 pm - en la sala de la comunidad de Los Altos Biblioteca en San Antonio Road.  
For more information see (Para más información) consulte www.selpa1cac.org

This parent education event is sponsored by the SELPA 1 CAC (www.selpa1cac.org) an all-volunteer group of parents of children with special needs.  Our service area includes all public school districts in Los Altos, Mountain View, and Palo Alto.  All of our events are free and open to anyone who feels they might benefit.  No registration is necessary

Hire a String Quartet
Ensembles comprising PACO's most experienced members are available to perform at weddings, parties, get-togethers, and wherever else fine music might be needed.  More info
UPCOMING CONCERTS
Preparatory
May 15th, 7:30PM
Unitarian Universalist

PACO
May 16, 7:30PM
Cubberley Theatre
SuperStrings
May 29, 7:30PM
Cubberley Theatre
Debut
May 30, 7:30PM
Cubberley Theatre
Sinfonia
May 31, 3:00PM
Cubberley Theatre
For a complete list of performances, please visit our website.
CONTACT US
Join Our Mailing List
Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra
Benjamin Simon, Music Director
Katherine Tseung, cello
 
Saturday, May 16th - 7:30PM
Cubberley Theatre
admission free

A full complement of professional wind and brass players join PACO's string orchestra to perform large orchestral works from the Classical and Romantic repertoire.  Our principal cellist Katherine Tseung, winner of PACO's concerto competition, performs Schumann's heartbreakingly beautiful cello concerto.   An early masterpiece by the incomparable Beethoven, his Symphony No. 2, and the world premiere of a new work written for PACO by Youth-for-Youth Commission winner Thomas Feng round out this program.  
The performance will also feature members of PACO performing movements from the chamber music repertoire, including Smetana's string quartet From My Life and Dvorak's massive G-major quartet.
Concerto Competition Winners with Sinfonia

The remaining winners of PACO's annual Concerto Competition will perform their own concerto movements on May 31st at 3:00PM, joined by the Sinfonia Orchestra.  Join us for pieces by Mozart, Dancla, de Beriot, Barber, and Schumann!

Thursday, May 7, 2015


Hire a String Quartet
Ensembles comprising PACO's most experienced members are available to perform at weddings, parties, get-togethers, and wherever else fine music might be needed.  More info
UPCOMING CONCERTS
Preparatory
May 15th, 7:30PM
Unitarian Universalist

PACO
May 16, 7:30PM
Cubberley Theatre
SuperStrings
May 29, 7:30PM
Cubberley Theatre
Debut
May 30, 7:30PM
Cubberley Theatre
Sinfonia
May 31, 3:00PM
Cubberley Theatre
For a complete list of performances, please visit our website.
CONTACT US
Join Our Mailing List
Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra
Benjamin Simon, Music Director
Katherine Tseung, cello
 
Saturday, May 16th - 7:30PM
Cubberley Theatre
admission free

A full complement of professional wind and brass players join PACO's string orchestra to perform large orchestral works from the Classical and Romantic repertoire.  Our principal cellist Katherine Tseung, winner of PACO's concerto competition, performs Schumann's heartbreakingly beautiful cello concerto.   An early masterpiece by the incomparable Beethoven, his Symphony No. 2, and the world premiere of a new work written for PACO by Youth-for-Youth Commission winner Thomas Feng round out this program.  
The performance will also feature members of PACO performing movements from the chamber music repertoire, including Smetana's string quartet From My Life and Dvorak's massive G-major quartet.
Concerto Competition Winners with Sinfonia

The remaining winners of PACO's annual Concerto Competition will perform their own concerto movements on May 31st at 3:00PM, joined by the Sinfonia Orchestra.  Join us for pieces by Mozart, Dancla, de Beriot, Barber, and Schumann!

Thursday, April 30, 2015

Can I take Hebrew as my foreign language?

If you are interested in taking Hebrew as your foreign language or continuing middle school studies, please come and join us at the Beged Kefet Hebrew Language Community School Open House
Thursday, May 21, 7:30 pm  (room E104)
The school is fully recognized and the grades appear on the official Gunn transcript. Meet the teachers; learn about our curriculum and get to know the school community. We would love to see you there!

For more information  or questions please contact Merav Steinberger-Arnold, Head of Beged Kefet Hebrew Language Community School at msteinberger@paloaltojcc.org or (650) 223-8635.

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Site Council Information

Congratulations to the 2015-2017 Site Council Parent Representatives!
Each year, two of the four parent representatives serving on Site Council come up for election. According to the revised Site Council bylaws, incumbent representatives can serve two consecutive terms (four years). Incumbents, Gwen Liang and Maggi Smeal opted not to seek re-election.  Newcomers Jane Dick, Liz Milner and Kathy Veit put their names on the ballot in March.  After a careful tally, Jane Dick and Liz Milner were elected to assume the two open seats for the next two years.  Kathy Veit will serve as alternate at the meetings when a parent cannot attend.  They will join Stacey Ashlund and Jyoti Sahdev representing Gunn parents for 2014-2016.
NEWLY ELECTED for 2015-2017:  
Jane Dick, Parent of Shep Dick, 9th grade - “I served on the Ohlone Elementary School Site Council for two years, including a year as chair.  In addition, I have chaired the boards of the Ohlone PTA, JLS Middle School Connections program, and Friends of Preschool Family, and I am currently serving as parliamentarian for the JLS PTA.  This year, as the parent of a Gunn freshman, I have been thrilled to be included in the WASC self-study as a member of the leadership team, attending all-day working retreats with staff, students, and other parents to work together to define the key Critical Learner Needs for Gunn’s next 6 years.  I am energized and challenged by opportunities to collaborate in our schools, to ask important questions, and to focus on solutions and improvements.  I would utilize my background of active, collaborative leadership in our schools, my willingness to learn and to listen, and my familiarity with our current WASC self-study to contribute to the Gunn community as a Site Council parent representative.”
Liz Milner, Parent of Abi, 12th grade and Emily, 9th grade “I have a graduating senior, a freshman and another future freshman coming in 18 months, so I'll be invested in Gunn for a while. Having sat on the WASC leadership team for the last six months I have a vision of what Gunn will focus on for the next six years and how we are hoping to go about that. I am a minister in a Palo Alto church and have volunteered as a chaplain in the jail so I'm used to difficult meetings and intense situations in many sectors of society! I used to be a high school math teacher in London so I feel I can bridge the parent-teacher gap with some understanding of both groups. Finally I love the community at Gunn and have suffered along with my kids and their friends over recent tragic situations. I'm hopeful for solutions that don't simply put a "band aid" on but are lasting, compassionate and realistic for teachers, students and parents.”

For more information on Gunn's Site Council, contact Rene' Hart, Gunn's Site Council Coordinator at (650) 849-7932 or email to: rhart@pausd.org

SELPA 1 CAC parent education event

Let's Talk  -  A chance to ask questions and share ideas, resources, and support with other parents of students with IEPs, 504s, learning differences, mental health challenges, etc. All are welcome, participants must respect confidentiality.  
Monday May 11, 2015
10 am to 12 noon
Los Altos Library Community Room
13 South San Antonio Road, Los Altos
Mark your calendars - future meetings will be:  
  • Monday June 8, 7pm to 9 pm  
  • Monday July 13, 10 am to 12 noon  
  • Monday August 10, 7pm to 9 pm

This parent education event is sponsored by the SELPA 1 CAC (www.selpa1cac.org) an all-volunteer group of parents of children with special needs.  Our service area includes all public school districts in Los Altos, Mountain View, and Palo Alto.  All of our events are free and open to anyone who feels they might benefit.  No registration is necessary.

Thursday, April 16, 2015

Teen Dating Violence

By Maria Horwich, LMFT Site Director, Redwood High School
Adolescence is an exciting and turbulent time for many of our teens. It is at this age that many of our children start dating. Many parents I meet are surprised that teen relationships are sometimes abusive.  In a nationwide survey, 9.4 percent of high school students reported being hit, slapped, or physically hurt on purpose by their boyfriend or girlfriend in the 12 months prior to the survey. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2011 Youth Risk Behavior Survey). About 1 in 5 women and nearly 1 in 7 men who ever experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner, first experienced some form of partner violence between 11 and 17 years of age (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2010 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey). We know that teen dating violence affects all races, religions, sexual orientation and socio-economic status. 
As teens develop emotionally, they are strongly influenced by their relationship experiences. Healthy relationship behaviors can have a positive effect on a teen’s emotional development. Unhealthy, abusive or violent relationships can cause both short and long term negative effects to the developing teen. Victims of teen dating violence are more likely to do poorly in school, and report binge drinking, suicide attempts, and physical fighting. Victims may also carry unhealthy behaviors and violence into future relationships.
We know that domestic violence is a learned behavior. Adolescents are getting messages about what is and is not acceptable in a relationship from their friends, family, and the media on a daily basis. Unfortunately, many of these messages communicate that violence in a relationship is okay, and/or that violence is an acceptable way to express anger. Violence is never acceptable. 
Is my child at risk? 
Risks of having unhealthy relationships increase for teens who:
  • Believe it's okay to use threats or violence to get their way or to express frustration or anger.
  • Use alcohol or drugs.
  • Can't manage anger or frustration.
  • Hang out with violent peers.
  • Have multiple sexual partners.
  • Have a friend involved in dating violence.
  • Are depressed or anxious.
  • Have learning difficulties and other problems at school.
  • Don't have parental supervision and support.
  • Witness violence at home or in the community.
  • Have a history of aggressive behavior or bullying

As parents, we are constantly modeling behaviors for our children. The best way to prevent your child from ending up in an abusive relationship is to model healthy behavior for them. Rather than hide all conflict from your children, let them see you and your partner work through a conflict while managing uncomfortable emotions like anger and jealousy, and treating others with respect. Show your kids that a conflict does not automatically mean screaming and throwing things.
Make sure that you speak to your child about what healthy and unhealthy relationships look like. Talk to them about boundaries- what they are, how to set them and what to do when someone violates a boundary. Teach them about the difference between being assertive and being aggressive and when such behaviors are acceptable.
Strive to maintain open communication with your teen. Make sure they know that if they are in a relationship they are unsure of, they can come to you. Avoid shaming your child- this is negative reinforcement and will likely cause your teen to keep things from you. You want to make sure that your child knows what is healthy and that they can come to you for help.
What To Look For:
There are several signs that your child may be in an abusive relationship. This includes a partner who acts jealous and controlling (this could look like monitoring your child’s phone, telling them what clothes they can and cannot wear); your child is spending all their time with the partner and dropping friends and activities; your teen appears to be depressed or angry; your child has unexplained injuries.
Unfortunately, only 40% of victims seek help. Of those that do, 3% tell an authority figure, 6% tell a family member, 75% tell a friend. This tells us that a teen in this situation is far more likely to tell a friend than an adult. Teens tell me they don’t want their parents to know because they feel ashamed (how could I have picked such a person?)  or they fear judgment and/or punishment from their parents. What you can do is let your child know that their safety is your number one concern and that if they come to you for help you will provide it- without shame or punishment.

Adolescent Counseling Services is a community non-profit, which provides vital counseling services on nine secondary campuses at no charge to students and their families. To learn more about our services please visit the ACS website at www.acs-teens.org or call Pamela Garfield, LCSW, Site Director at Gunn (650) 849-7919.  ACS relies on the generosity of community members to continue offering individual, family, and group counseling to over 1,500 individuals annually.  ACS provides critical interventions and mental health services, building a better future for tomorrow. If you are interested in helping to support our efforts, do not hesitate to call to make a donation. It goes a long way in helping teenagers find their way!

Thursday, April 2, 2015

Show Your Titan Pride!


For all you Gunn sports fans...support your favorite Titan team with a personalized blanket or tote.  The bleacher blanket is water-resistant material on one side, and soft fleece on the other side.  The tote is made of durable, wipeable material with 2 interior pockets and 5 exterior pockets and the bleacher blanket fits inside with room to spare for other spectator essentials!  See the attached order form for details and ordering options.  For questions, please email Susan at giovannottos@me.com.


Thursday, March 26, 2015

Not In Our Schools Week - Gunn Presents The Mask You Live In

The Mask You Live In follows boys and young men as they struggle to stay true to themselves while negotiating America’s narrow definition of masculinity.
Pressured by the media, their peer group, and even the adults in their lives, the protagonists confront messages encouraging them to disconnect from their emotions, devalue authentic friendships, objectify and degrade women, and resolve conflicts through violence. These gender stereotypes interconnect with race, class, and circumstance, creating a maze of identity issues boys and young men must navigate to become “real” men.
Experts in neuroscience, psychology, sociology, sports, education, and media also weigh in, offering empirical evidence of the “boy crisis” and tactics to combat it. The Mask You Live In ultimately illustrates how we, as a society, can raise a healthier generation of boys and young men.
Join us for this screening April 16th at 6PM, which will be followed by a moderated discussion by Dr. Jerrold Shapiro.  This film is not rated and contains sensitive topics; we recommend the attendance to be upperclassmen and adults only. (View the trailer here)
Admission is free, though we encourage attendees to bring a donation of canned food that will benefit a local food bank. Reserve your tickets on eventbrite.

Special Needs that May Come with Adoption

How pre-adoption issues (e.g., post traumatic stress, attachment disorders) may impact a child, what special issues a child who has been adopted may face in a school setting and how to best handle these, and what special issues these children face in adolescence and beyond.
Our speakers will be Nancy Ng, a nationally known family counselor and parent of 12 children, nine who were adopted and have various emotional and physical disabilities and Dr. Judy Rothenberg, a psychologist experienced in the schools as well as private practice, who is also an adoptive parent. 
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Hospitality 6:45pm
Meeting – 7 to 9 pm
Covington School Multipurpose Room
205 Covington Road, Los Altos  94024

This parent education event is sponsored by the SELPA 1 CAC (www.selpa1cac.org) an all-volunteer group of parents of children with special needs.  Our service area includes all public school districts in Los Altos, Mountain View, and Palo Alto.  All of our events are free and open to anyone who feels they might benefit.  No registration is necessary.

Thursday, March 19, 2015

Winter Sports Update

The winter sports season is officially over, and here is a recap of the incredible year our teams had:
Boys Basketball: The team started the year off strong, with a preseason championship in the Prospect tournament. The momentum carried into the regular season as the Titans finished 11-1 in league play. Led by by league MVP Alex Gil and all-league first team selection Chris Russell, the team finished the regular season with a record of 18-3, clinching Gunn’s first CCS playoff berth in years. The boys won their first two games in the playoff, with big contributions from the Lee-Heidenreich brothers. Senior David Lee-Heidenreich returned from an injury-plagued season to win a first team all-league selection, and sophomore brother Jeffrey started his Gunn career strong, earning a second team all-league selection. The boys eventually fell in the CCS quarterfinals to number one seed Bellarmine. The Titans finished the season 20-4, and look to come back even stronger next year, with many returning players including junior guard Jonathan Davis, also an all-league second team selection.
Girls Basketball: The girls team had an up and down season, but finished the year with a 7-12 record, and 4-8 in league. The season marks the end of amazing careers for seniors Paige Ogawa, Meghan Mahoney and Olivia Tapia, all 4-year varsity basketball players. However, the future for the girls looks bright as the team has many young players returning.
Boys Soccer: The Titans, led by senior Sean MacPherson, had an amazing season. They finished the regular season with a record of 14-4-2, also clinching a CCS berth for the first time in years. They advanced to the semifinals, but lost a close one to Leland High School on penalty kicks. The team ended with a 15-5-2 record.
Girls Soccer: The team had a great year, with a record of 11-7-1, and yet another CCS berth for the Titans. The team suffered a tough defeat to Santa Teresa, losing 3-0 in their first CCS game. Senior Natalie Perreault led the team, earning league outstanding senior and first team all-league awards. Freshman Natalie Hill and sophomore Ingur Smuts also played well for the Titans.

Wrestling: As a whole, the team went through a rebuilding year, but the season was highlighted by historic individual success. Senior Ian Cramer was fantastic, with a record of 35-4 with 26 victories coming with pins. Both the wins and pins are Gunn records. He went on to win the 138-pound division at CCS, just the fifth Gunn male to win a CCS title. Cramer then finished 8th at the state meet, becoming Gunn’s first CCS champion to win a medal at state in 42 years. The team also had good representation at CCS, with 8 qualifiers. Kirill Demyanenko was the Titans’ second best finisher, placing 9th in the 285-pound division.

"Just for Moms of Teens & Pre-teens: 9-week Holistic Wellness Program" 

Sponsored by Gunn's PTSA
We all share a vital need for social connection yet so often moms' needs get neglected. To support our teens' wellbeing, moms must also be supported and nurtured. This holistic wellness program weaves together community building, gentle yoga, mindfulness, and authentic sharing about the realities of raising teens who are anxious, depressed and under a great deal of pressure to succeed. As the founder of MBSM, Jaclyn Long is a counselor specializing in supporting teens and their parents in these complicated times. To register please visit www.MindBodySpiritMoms.com. Pre-registration is required.
Date:  Wednesday evenings, 6-8pm ~ March 18  thru May 20, 2015 (no class April 8th)
Cost: $270 for 9 weeks
Location:  Room K2 at Gunn HS. Room K2 is on the West end of campus, facing Foothill Expressway. Please use the parking lot past the drop-off area off of the intersection of Arastradero & Miranda.  K2 is the corner classroom behind the garden area/planter boxes.

(NOTE:  Miranda Avenue is the tiny street that runs parallel to & immediately BEFORE Foothill Expressway coming from Terman). 

Does Your Teen Have Trouble Sleeping?



The Department of Psychiatry at Stanford University is currently conducting a study to help teens go to bed earlier and wake up earlier.  The treatment involves use of a light device that is placed by the child’s bedside and flashes periodically throughout the night.
Who can participate?
Teenagers ages 14-18 who:
  • Are enrolled full-time in 9th-12th grades
  • Have difficulty falling asleep and waking up in the morning
  • Are not currently taking any medications for sleep
  • Desire to go to bed at an earlier time
  • Don’t sleep only in the prone (face-down) position

What is required?
  • Two study visits
  • Completing a sleep diary daily for one month
  • Weekly brief telephone calls to check in

Whom do I contact?
Dr. Kate Kaplan, Psychology Fellow
Meital Mashash, Study Coordinator
meital@stanford.edu
(650) 725-7767

For general information about participants rights, contact 1-866-680-2906.