At KE & In the Community

Information on coming events and news at Kol Emeth:

• TRACK WATCH PROGRAM -- *information updated 6/01/2010*
   
  A critical component of our collective efforts in response to the recent cases of teen death by suicide at the train tracks should be to make sure the train crossings are monitored. It has been established that, particularly for cases where impulsivity is a factor and where there are no obvious warning signs, restricting the means to self harm can help in prevention. The Palo Alto Police have hired a private firm to monitor the Meadow crossing throughout the day for the next few months and volunteers are taking shifts at the Charleston crossing.

This effort has made a visible difference. It is believed to have prevented at least one suicide, and it has contributed to a sense of safety in the community. Monitoring the tracks can save lives and allow us to heal; it must be maintained for as long as possible.

Here is how you can help:

(i)  The City of Palo Alto is accepting tax deductible contribution to help pay for the patrols. Donation at any level will send a clear message to the City that we support track monitoring and want it continued. To donate visit

http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/depts/csd/community_and_family_resources/safetynet/p4.asp

(ii)  Consider becoming a volunteer Track Watch monitor. Come whenever you can, for as long as you can. You will find the gratitude of the community rewarding. To volunteer, write to hopepaloalto@gmail.com.

PLEASE HELP SUPPORT THIS CRUCIAL EFFORT TO KEEP OUR KIDS SAFE!!

TrackWatch needs additional volunteers to help to monitor the tracks as the school year ends (and we transition into summer). This time of year is especially important because it includes final exams, major life decisions, and big transitions for our youth.   Our community has been putting resources into place to help our youth. However, the number of instances of teens requiring police/mental health assistance in May strongly indicates that we need to support the community effort with TrackWatch as we transition out of the school year.  Many volunteers came out in response to the request from Gunn Principal Likins.  Of that group, most have already done what they can.  This is why we are asking for additional support. Without further community support, TrackWatch will not be able to cover this critical period. If you are able to volunteer, please write to hopepaloalto@gmail.com."   

 

A message from GUNN HIGH SCHOOL
May 14, 2010

As we near the end of the year, change is in the air at Gunn. This time can be very exciting for students, but it can also be very stressful. We really need your help to watch the tracks as the school year comes to a close.

As you may know, paid patrols are guarding the track crossing at Meadow. Where we primarily need help is at the Charleston crossing. We also need parents to provide extra support at Meadow at high stress times. The job is easy and only requires caring adults to be stationed at the crossings. Volunteers can take any shift from 1 to 3 hours. Bring your friends and a chair —more than one volunteer at a time is welcome.

To volunteer, email hopepaloalto@gmail.com. The Track Watch coordinator, Barron Park parent Caroline Camhy, will send you the link for sign-ups and an instructional memo with some important phone numbers.

Our sincere thanks go to the many volunteers who have already taken a shift at the tracks and to those of you who can find time to help out over the next several weeks. I hope we can end the school year on a positive note, and keep all our kids safe.

Good wishes,
Noreen Likins, Principal

• The Virtual Kol Nidre Food Drive with Second Harvest Food Bank Continues
  
  We are continuing the Virtual Food Drive. It is easy to donate online and your dollars will go even further.
  Go to www.VirtualHarvest.net to make a monetary donation. Every dollar donated can provide two meals. You will then be taken to the “virtual store” where you can select specific items to donate. If you don’t want to donate specific items, scroll to the bottom of that page where you will see a box that allows you to enter a specific amount.