AVOIDING HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS

It isn’t a secret that during the summer most children and teens want to be outside. The sun is the body’s main source of vitamin D, which helps to absorb the calcium that bones need. However, it does not take long to get the amount of vitamin D we need. As we get deeper into the summer months, the sun’s heat becomes less fun and kids are at risk for dangerous heat-related illnesses. Typical heat-related illnesses are dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Heatstroke is the most extreme and life-threatening heat-related illness. The body loses its ability to regulate temperature and can reach temperatures as high as 106 Fahrenheit and beyond, which could lead to brain damage or death. Avoid heatstroke and its side effects by seeking medical attention when a child becomes "disoriented, dizzy, nauseous, cold, clammy or has cramps," according to Drew Ferguson, the director of Sports Medicine at Children’s of Alabama. Ferguson said the best way to beat the heat this summer is to ensure that children are, "well-hydrated prior to the event, hydrate during the event and after the event." He suggested avoiding drinks high in fructose, because they are prone to make children nauseous. Kids should be constantly drinking water because nothing has the ability to replenish thirst like water.
Help your kids beat the heat this summer with these tips:

Teach kids to always drink plenty of fluids before and during an activity in hot,
sunny weather — even if they're not thirsty.
Make sure kids wear light-colored, loose clothing.
Make sure your kids only participate in heavy activity outdoors before noon and
after 6 p.m.
Teach kids to come indoors immediately whenever they feel overheated.

For more information about keeping your kids cool and avoiding heat-related
illnesses, visit www.childrensal.org.

KEEP KIDS COOL WITH POOL SAFETY

The following article is from Rachel Olis with Children's of Alabama.

When school is out and the summertime heat arrives, kids of all ages will be
clamoring to spend their time at the pool. While the pool can be a fun and relaxing
retreat for families, in the blink of an eye it can turn into a nightmare. Nearly
1,000 kids die every year by drowning and it is the second leading cause of
accidental death for people between the ages of 5 - 24. It is important to remember
that drowning is preventable if people take the time to learn and utilize the proper
safety precautions.

Supervision for swimmers is the most important element of pool safety. “There really
isn’t an age for someone to swim unsupervised, even when you’re an adult, it is
always best to swim with a buddy,” said Karen Cochrane, RN, patient health and
safety expert at Children’s of Alabama. “In case something happened, there would be
somebody there to help you.”

Here are just a few safety measures that will help keep your family’s time at the
pool enjoyable and safe:

1. Invest in proper-fitting, Coast Guard-approved flotation devices (life vests) and
use them whenever a child is near water. Check the weight and size recommendations
on the label, then have your child try it on to make sure it fits snugly. For kids
younger than 5 years old, choose a vest with a strap between the legs and head
support — the collar will keep the child's head up and face out of the water.
Inflatable vests and arm devices such as water wings are not effective protection
against drowning.
2. If you don't already, it's a good idea to learn how to swim, and kids older than 4
years should learn, too (check the local recreation center for classes taught by
qualified instructors). Kids who are younger (but older than age 1) also might
benefit from swimming lessons, but check with your doctor first. Don't assume that a child who knows how to swim isn't at risk for drowning. All kids need to be supervised in the water, no matter what their swimming skill levels. And infants, toddlers, and weak swimmers should have an adult swimmer within arm's reach to provide "touch supervision."
To learn more about how to keep the pool safe for your family, visit
www.childrensal.org.

Summer 2013 Alabama High School Graduation Exam

If you are going to be a senior in the fall or are repeating the junior year and need to pass any areas of the Alabama High School Graduation Exam (AHSGE), your next opportunity to take the exam is July 8-12, 2013. This is the schedule:
Social Studies - Monday, July 8, 2013
Reading - Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Mathematics - Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Language - Thursday, July 11, 2013
Biology - Friday, July 12, 2013

The summer administration of the AHSGE will be held in the Chilton County High School cafeteria. Bring your photo ID and 2 sharpened pencils. Admission will begin by 7:30 AM each day of testing.

For review or practice materials go to the following website:
http://www.ptc.dcs.edu/schools/hs/ahs/Front%20Page%20Items/AHSGE_Practice_Qs.htm.
You may also check with your local school about remediation.

YoungArts Makes Dreams Come True!

Are you a young artist between 15-18 or grades 10-12 with talents in the visual, literary, performing, or design arts? YoungArts can make your dreams come true. YoungArts identifies and supports the next generations of artists. Applicants are eligible for:
*Awards of up to $10,000 per student
*Master classes with world-renowned artists
*Access to scholarships, career opportunities and professional contacts
*Recognition for artistic excellence in the visual, literary, performing and design arts
*Performance opportunities in the most prestigious venues around the country
*A chance to be recognized as a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts
*The opportunity to appear in YoungArts MasterClass on HBO

During the past 32 years, YoungArts has honored more than 17,000 young artists with over $6 million in monetary awards; facilitated in excess of $150 million in scholarship opportunities; and enabled its participants to work with some of the most distinguished master artists in the world, including Edward Albee, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Joshua Bell, Placido Domingo, Renee Fleming, Frank Gehry, Bobby McFerrin, James Rosenquist, Robert Redford, Martin Scorsese and Bruce Weber.

Apply through OCTOBER 18, 2013. Visit www.youngarts.org/apply for details on the application and the organization.

ADHD - An article by Rachel Olis from Children's of Alabama

ADHD is a common behavioral disorder that affects an estimated 8 to 10 percent of
school-age children. Boys are about three times more likely than girls to be
diagnosed with it, though it's not yet understood why.
“Kids with ADHD act without thinking, are hyperactive and have trouble focusing,
says Dr. Gigi Youngblood, a pediatrician at Children’s of Alabama. “They may
understand what's expected of them but have trouble following through because they
can't sit still, pay attention or attend to details.”
Of course, all kids (especially younger ones) act this way at times, particularly
when they're anxious or excited. But the difference with ADHD is that symptoms are
present over a longer period of time and occur in different settings. They impair a
child's ability to function socially, academically, and at home.
The good news is that with proper treatment, kids with ADHD can learn to
successfully live with and manage their symptoms.
Diagnosis
Because there's no test that can determine the presence of ADHD, a diagnosis depends
on a complete evaluation. Many children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD are
evaluated and treated by primary care doctors including pediatricians and family
practitioners, but your child may also be referred to one of several different
specialists (psychiatrists, psychologists, neurologists) especially when the
diagnosis is in doubt, or if there are other concerns, such as Tourette syndrome, a
learning disability, anxiety or depression.
Treating ADHD
ADHD can't be cured, but it can be successfully managed. Your child's doctor will work
with you to develop an individualized, long-term plan. The goal is to help a child
learn to control his or her own behavior and to help families create an atmosphere
in which this is most likely to happen.
In most cases, ADHD is best treated with a combination of medication and
behavior therapy. Any good treatment plan will require close follow-up and
monitoring, and your doctor may make adjustments along the way. Because it's
important for parents to actively participate in their child's treatment plan,
parent education is also considered an important part of ADHD management.
Sometimes the symptoms of ADHD become less severe as a person grows older.
Hyperactivity tends to get less as people grow up, although the problems with
organization and attention often remain. More than half of kids who have ADHD
will continue to have symptoms as young adults
Behavioral Therapy
Research has shown that medications used to help curb impulsive behavior and
attention difficulties are more effective when combined with behavioral therapy.
Here are examples of behavioral strategies that may help a child with ADHD:
Create a routine.Try to follow the same schedule every day, from wake-up time
to bedtime. Post the schedule in a prominent place, so your child can see
what's expected throughout the day and when it's time for homework, play, and
chores.
Get organized. Put schoolbags, clothing, and toys in the same place every day
so your child will be less likely to lose them.
Avoid distractions.Turn off the TV, radio, and computer games, especially when
your child is doing homework.
Limit choices. Offer a choice between two things (this outfit, meal, toy, etc.,
or that one) so that your child isn't overwhelmed and overstimulated.
Change your interactions with your child.Instead of long-winded explanations
and cajoling, use clear, brief directions to remind your child of
responsibilities.
Use goals and rewards. Use a chart to list goals and track positive behaviors,
then reward your child's efforts. Be sure the goals are realistic (think baby
steps rather than overnight success).
Discipline effectively.Instead of yelling or spanking, use timeouts or removal
of privileges as consequences for inappropriate behavior. Younger kids may
simply need to be distracted or ignored until they display better behavior.
Help your child discover a talent.All kids need to experience success to feel
good about themselves. Finding out what your child does well — whether its
sports, art, or music — can boost social skills and self-esteem.
Helping Your Child
You're a stronger advocate for your child when you foster good partnerships
with everyone involved in your child's treatment — that includes teachers,
doctors, therapists, and even other family members. Take advantage of all the
support and education that's available, and you'll help your child navigate
toward success.
For more information on this or other health and safety topics,
visitwww.childrensal.org.

Selma University

Selma University has an "Open Door" policy meaning that they do not require "ACT or SAT scores" for admissions. However, a prospective candidate must possess their High School Diploma or GED in order to matriculate into the University. Selma University provides the following financial aid assistance: Pell Grants, institutional scholarships, and general scholarships.

Selma University's undergraduate curriculum includes the following degrees: Associate of Arts in Bible and Theology, Bachelors of Arts in Bible and Theology, and Pastoral Ministry, Bachelors of Arts in General Studies with concentrations in Business Administration, Biology, Physical Education, and Christian Education. They also offer one semester Allied Healthcare classes in nursing assistant, phlebotomy, and EKG. The website for Selma University is www.selmauniversity.org.

ARMT Test Schedule for Verbena High School

Students in grades 3 - 8 will be taking the Alabama Reading and Math Tests Plus(ARMT+) on May 7-10, and 13. It is very important for the students to be present each day so try not to schedule appointments which would keep them from being at school. In addition, please make sure that your child does the following things in order to help them do their best on the tests:
1. Get a good night's rest the night before each day of testing.
2. Eat a healthy breakfast.
3. Be at school on time.
4. Encourage them to use the test time efficiently but not to rush through the questions.

Preventing Teen Pregnancy

This article comes from Rachel Olis with Children's of Alabama.

Alabama has some of the highest teen pregnancy rates in the country. As an adult,
you should create a plan for discussing the facts about teen pregnancy with your son
or daughter. Parents are the first and primary educators for their children, so
start the conversation and arm them with the information they need to make safe and
healthy choices.
Some parents may find this a difficult discussion to have. Dr. Tina Simpson,
adolescent medicine physician at Children’s of Alabama, says that “the early stages
in the conversation don’t necessarily involve talking about sex.” As part of May’s
National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month, Children’s of Alabama offers these tips to
help you talk to your child about teen pregnancy:

Keep an open dialogue. This is the best way to prevent teen pregnancy.

Begin talking with them about sexuality when they are very young. Discussing body
parts with your child is very important at this age.

Follow their lead. Your child will have questions, and it’s up to you to answer them
with correct information and age-appropriate language. It’s better that they hear it
from you than other unreliable sources.

As your child gets older, ask them questions that are more developmentally
appropriate. This will help them consider their own changes during puberty as well
as the development of healthy relationships.

Emphasize family values. Go over where you expect your child to be and who you
expect them to be with. Education expectations and career goals are also important
to discuss.

Start to engage in more specific conversations. After the previous steps have been
taken, begin talking about sexuality, contraception, and other uncomfortable but
necessary topics. This will prepare your child for the possible reality of the
unintended consequences of sex, namely pregnancy.
Where to go for support:

The Adolescent Health Center at Children's of Alabama is open to every young person
ages 11-21.

Alabama Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy focuses on teen pregnancy prevention and
positive youth development.

Many community-based programs deal with teen sexuality and pregnancy prevention.
Talking with your child is the most important thing you can do to help your son or
daughter prevent teen pregnancy. Many parents regret not having done more once their
child is involved in a pregnancy, so take the necessary steps now to ensure they
grow up at just the right pace.
For more information, please visit childrensal.org.

Scholarships for Minority Students

Check out some of these great resources when searching for college scholarships. When it comes to money for school, there is something for everyone!
Asian and Pacific Islanders American Scholarship Fund
www.apiasf.org

Hispanic Scholarship Consortium
www.hispanicscholar.org

American Indian College Fund
www.collegefund.org

Association on American Indian Affairs
www.indian-affairs.org

United Negro College Fund
www.uncf.org

Gates Millennium Scholars
www.gmsp.org

WIA Youth Dual Enrollment

Dual enrollment serves youth who are currently attending secondary school in grades 10-12. The Alabama Workforce Investment Area has authorized Workforce Investment Act (WIA) In-school Youth funding for Career Technical Education Dual Enrollment Individual Referral (IR) for eligible students. Residents of all counties that comprise the 65 County Alabama Workforce Investment Area are eligible to participate, providing they meet the WIA eligibility requirements. If you or your child qualifies for the dual enrollment program or needs funds to pay for tuition/books to enroll in a technical degree/certificate program at a community college, please see Mrs. Champion, the Verbena High School counselor, for the information and application packet and to see if your student might be eligible for funding under the WIA act. Tara Thomas, Career Center specialist, who works at the Career Center in Alabaster is a contact for more information. Her number is (205)663-2542. See the income guidelines below:
Family Size / Income
1 / 11,490
2 / 15,510
3 / 19,919
4 / 24,592
5 / 29,025
6 / 33,946
For each additional family member above 6 add 4,921.

Verbena High Yearbooks are in!!!

The 2012-2013 Verbena High School yearbooks have arrived and they are red hot! If you did not order one, there are extra copies so don't despair! You can still get one. The cost for VHS staff or high school seniors is $50, all others is $60. Many thanks to Ms. L'toya Jones, Mrs. Christina Cochran, and the yearbook staff for all of their hard work! Please contact the school office at (205) 280-2820 and ask them to save you a copy today. There are also some older yearbooks for sale which you can ask about purchasing.

Concordia College Spring Fest 2013

Spring Fest 2013 for Concordia College is planned for April 26-27. On Friday, April 26, the activities include Spirit Day (wearing CCA apparel) and a Greek Step Show at Jenkins Center at 7 PM. On Saturday, April 27, the activities include Open House/Senior Day at Jenkins Center from 9 AM - 12 AM. Registration begins at 8 AM in the Jenkins Center. High school seniors and transfer students are especially invited to attend. Students will meet members of the faculty, staff, current students, and alumni. Be prepared for on-site admission by bringing your transcript and ACT scores. There will be a parade down Dallas Ave with the line-up beginning at 1 PM. The Spring football game will start at 3:30 PM in Bloch Park. There is also an after party concert beginning at 10 PM in Lehman Center. For additional information, please contact the CCA office at 334-874-5700, ext. 19762 or visit their website www.ccal.edu.

NextStepU Free Emag!

Copy and paste the following website to download a free May edition of the emag "NextStepU", http://www.nextstepu.com/emag/default.aspx?email=. NextStepU always contains alot of valuable information for juniors and seniors to help with financial aid, career planning, or choosing a college.

ACA Scholarship

The Alabama Counseling Association District VI Scholarship is available to individuals who are pursuing an undergraduate degree in education or counseling. Applicants must live within the counties of District VI, which consist of Autauga, Bibb, Butler, Chilton, Choctaw, Dallas, Lowndes, Marengo, Perry, and Wilcox. All applications must be submitted on or before May 10, 2013. Mail the application, two letters of recommendation, official transcript with ACT score, and a one-page essay on "Why do you want to pursue a career in education or counseling?" to ALCA Chapter VI, Attn: Kimberley Hicks, 2360 Highway 31 North, Deatsville, AL 36022. The essay must be typed and attached to the application. Applicants should have at least a 3.0 GPA and an ACT score of 18 or better. See Mrs. Champion or your counselor for a copy of the application.

Credit/Financial Info for Students

I have read an excellent article called "Life After High School: Credit Lessons They Won't Teach You in College." It is written by John Ulzheimer, a credit expert and senior columnist at Credit Card Insider, an educational resource that helps people understand credit. This article will help students to know about building credit in college and the dangers of acquiring credit card debt. Please read it. I think that you will be glad you did. The link to this article is http://www.creditcardinsider.com/credit-cards/student/college-and-your-credit.

REAL Cents REAL Change Summer Camp℠

REAL Cents REAL Change Summer Camp℠
June 16-21, 2013

REAL: Recognize Me! Empower Me! Appreciate Me! My Legacy!
Want to feel confident about how to manage money at any stage of your life? Want to empower yourself while helping others? Want to leverage your natural talents, skills, and treasures to benefit others? Want to learn how to create a lasting legacy? Let's get REAL! AND make positive things happen!

The REAL Cents REAL Change℠ Summer Camp is a week-long residential camp produced by the Cary Center for the Advancement of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies and College of Human Sciences that empowers teens (ages 13-18) through education, leadership and philanthropy. Throughout REAL Cents REAL Change℠ Summer Camp, teen participants will learn the basic skills of financial management and how to maximize their philanthropic impact.

Participants will experience campus-life while residing in Auburn's resident dormitories, eating at campus dining facilities, and enjoying evening social and recreational activities. Camp participants will have 24/7 counselor supervision.

Tuition is $549 and covers all instruction, housing, meals, and recreational activities. Copy and paste this website in your browser to apply for this camp:
http://www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/summerexperience/realcentsrealchange.htm

NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing

High school young women in our community are invited to apply for the *NCWIT
Award for Aspirations in Computing. The School of Computing at the University of South Alabama is the Alabama Affiliate of NCWIT*.

*What is the award?*

The *NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing* recognizes young women at
the high-school level for their computing-related achievements and
interests. Winners are recognized at an award event here in the community.
All applicants will also be considered for the National award.

*Why is the award important?*

By generating visibility for technical young women, the *NCWIT Award for
Aspirations in Computing* encourages continued interest in computing,
increases awareness of the gender gap in computing and IT, and emphasizes
at a personal level the importance of women's participation in computing.

*What is the application process?*

Go to www.ncwit.org/award. Detailed instructions and eligibility information are
found online.

Applicants are asked to provide the name and email address of a school
official to endorse their application. This person could be a teacher,
technology specialist, counselor or other school official. Online applications
must be submitted and endorsed by October 31, 2013.

Jeff State Community College Summer Registration

The online registration dates for enrolling in summer courses at Jeff State Community College is April 15 - May 22, 2013. If you are a high school student wanting dual or accelerated enrollment, go to http://www.jeffstateonline.com/. Click on the "Enroll" tab at the top then click on "High School Students" from the drop-down list. On the left side of the next screen you will click on Dual Enrollment or Accelerated Program. Click on the words "printed application." This will bring up the "Forms" screen where you can download either admissions, dual enrollment, or accelerated program application forms. You may also get a paper copy of the dual enrollment or accelerated program application from your counselor.

ABA Broadcast Scholarship Program 2013

NEED MONEY FOR SCHOOL THIS FALL? HERE'S SOME GREAT NEWS FOR ALABAMA RESIDENTS STUDYING BROADCASTING OR BROADCAST ENGINEERING AT ALABAMA COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES. THE ALABAMA BROADCASTERS ASSOCIATION WILL AWARD TEN SCHOLARSHIPS OF THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($3,000) EACH THIS YEAR. FOR ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS AND A COPY OF THE
APPLICATION, VISIT WWW.AL-BA.COM OR SEE YOUR COUNSELOR. APPLY BY APRIL 30.

Verbena Kindergarten Registration 2013

The Verbena Kindergarten Registration will take place on April 22rd through 26th at the Annex office from 8:30-10:30 am and 12:00-2:00 pm. Children who are 5 years old on or before September 2, 2013 are eligible to register for the 2013-2014 school year. If a parent is not able to attend, they can call the Annex during the week of registration for information about picking up a packet (755-0248).
The following paperwork is required to enroll your child: Certified Birth Certificate, original unexpired Alabama Certificate of Immunization, Social Security Card and Proof of Residence (utility bill or lease agreement showing name and address).
A parent or legal guardian with proper documentation must enroll a student. The school will need a copy of custody or guardianship papers if applicable.
All paperwork must be presented at the time of registration. Parents may bring their children with them, but it is not required.
The Verbena Annex Staff will host a "meet and greet" with all rising Kindergarten students and parents May 22th at 11:00 p.m. Students and parents will be able to tour the building, meet the teachers and have a special snack. Only families who have completed their registration paperwork by May 17th will be able to attend.