Mrs. Douvris

Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day

2012-01-30T05:28:00.000-08:00

Today is Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day. Bubble wrap is known to reduce stress. Popping bubbles was proved to be as relaxing as a thirty-three minute massage. Crack some bubbles today!

Happy Birthday, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.!

2012-01-18T08:30:00.000-08:00

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is known as perhaps the greatest champion of freedom, justice, equality and peace ever known.

He is known from small villages to great halls of power, and his mane is seen by countless social causes and movements. Schools, community centers from Boston to Bosnia bear his name. In the United States, he is the only non-president with a national holdiday dedicated in his honor.

Happy Birthday, Dr. King, Jr.

2012-01-13T15:25:00.000-08:00

MAPS Testing

2012-01-09T06:54:00.000-08:00

This week students at Lakeview will be completing MAPS Testing.

These tests are super important!

Go to bed on time and eat a good breakfast.

Try your very hardest!

2011-11-10T12:19:00.001-08:00

The Veterans Day National Ceremony is held each year on November 11th at Arlington National Cemetery. The ceremony commences at 11:00 a.m. with a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors by veterans. The ceremony is intended to honor and thank all who served in the United States Armed Forces.

2011-11-10T12:18:00.001-08:00

The Veterans Day National Ceremony is held each year on November 11th at Arlington National Cemetery. The ceremony commences at 11:00 a.m. with a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside theMemorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors by veterans. The ceremony is intended to honor and thank all who served int he United States Armed Forces.

Thank you, veterans!

2011-11-10T12:06:00.000-08:00

2011-10-31T06:10:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! Be Safe, today.

2011-10-16T07:32:00.000-07:00

Did you know...??

Humans shed and re-grow outer skin cells about every 27 days almost 1,000 new skins in a lifetime.

September 11, 2001

2011-09-11T04:54:00.000-07:00

September 11, 2001

NEVER FORGET!

Children's Memorial Radiothon

2011-09-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow starts the 12th annual Eric and Kathy, WTMX radiothon to collect money for Children's Memorial Hospital.

Tune into The Mix 101.9 tomorrow, September 9th at 6am, to hear inspirational stories from patients and families.

My neice Tyler, was at Children's when she was born. The doctors and nurses at Children's Memorial are true angels. Tyler has been collecting change for several months now. Here is a picture of her turning in her money.

Welcome Back!

2011-09-02T13:03:00.000-07:00

Happy September, everyone! We are off to a great start this school year.

Enjoy your day off on Monday.

8th grade: Don't forget your sack lunch on Tuesday. Be sure to wear the right clothes to Irons Oaks.

Spring is coming!

2011-03-09T05:52:00.000-08:00

Spring is coming, I spotted two robins in my back yard! Hurray...

This week in reading and language arts we are finishing "Romeo and Juliet."

Book report presentations are also going on this week. Don't forget your final draft form.

2011-02-14T12:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

This week we are focusing on ISAT test preparation. We will be doing several extended responses as well as mulitple choice practices this week.

ISAT's start the week after next.

Don't forget to continue reading your book report book!

2011-01-28T12:38:00.000-08:00

This week we are starting a new unit in reading.

The class is watching "West Side Story."

Then we will be reading Romeo and Juliet.

Finally, we will be comparing the movie to elements of Romeo and Juliet.

Students chose new books for book reports this week. Start reading!

The 1960's

2011-01-10T12:39:00.001-08:00

We are starting our 60's unit research this week. Students are researching issues that were important in the 1960's. They will use this research to participate in 1960's debates.

Next Wednesday we will start our debates. (January 19th)

Ask your child if they are a character, moderator or reporter, and what their debate topic is!

Happy Hoildays

2010-12-17T09:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!

Enjoy your winter break.

See you next year!

**Don't forget to read your accelerated reader book over break....take notes on a post-it for each chapter!

2010-12-06T05:30:00.000-08:00

This week in language arts, students will continue to work on persuasive essays. Rough drafts will be due on Wednesday, and final drafts are due on Friday, December 10th.

In reading class, students will be sharing their magazine book reports with their classmates on Monday. We will select new AR books on Tuesday. We will begin a new unit on Mythology later this week.

2010-10-16T19:17:00.000-07:00

The 7th grade is finishing up their leaf collection project. I hope they went to the Arboretum in Lisle to collect their leaves. The colors are just awesome right now.

In 8th grade reading and language arts we are continuing to read The Outsiders. Stay tuned to find out what happens to Ponyboy and Johnny Cade.

Week of October 11th

2010-10-08T09:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Columbus Day! Enjoy your day off, take time to check out the fall colors.

This is a big week in 8th grade reading and language arts.

Wednesday, Oct. 13th, all 8th graders will be taking the Explore Test.

Final draft essays are due Thursday, Oct. 14th.

We will be starting to read the novel "The Outsiders."

2010-09-21T11:07:00.000-07:00

This week in 8th grade reading and language, book reports will be presented in class. All students should be ready to give their presentation on Tuesday.

Wednesday we are having our short story test in reading. Study your flashcards!

2010-09-12T08:48:00.000-07:00

On Friday, September 10th, the eighth grade took a field trip to Irons Oaks Environment Education Center. Each group was able to focus and participate in fun, but challenging cooperative activities. The weather was perfect, and it was great to see the kids having so much fun!

****Don't forget to finish reading your book report books this week, 8th graders!

week of Sept. 7th

2010-09-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

Enjoy Labor Day!

Next week in reading we will be continuing with our short story unit. In language arts we will focus on nouns, common, proper, singular and plural.

Week of Aug. 30th

2010-08-27T12:41:00.000-07:00

In 8th grade reading an language arts we will share our "choices" essays. Final drafts are due Monday, 8/30/10.

We will be introducing and working on our "Me Bag" speeches. They will be presented, in class, at the end of the week.

Stay tuned to figure out which emotion is stonger.... love or jealousy.

2010-08-25T05:49:00.000-07:00

Welcome back! I hope everyone had a great summer! Today is my son, Ryan's first day of school. He is a senior. I remember putting him on the bus as a kindergartner like it was yesterday!

In 8th grade L.A. this week, students will be writing their first essay. We will begin working on the essay on Wednesday, and the final copy will be due next Monday.

Tyler

2010-05-17T10:18:00.000-07:00

Tyler had her second ballet recital this weekend. What a ballerina!

Wow Its May Already!

2010-05-03T05:44:00.000-07:00

In 8th grade reading classes, we will be choosing our last book report book this week. It will be a free choice fiction AR book.

We will also continue reading Monster.

In L.A., students will be writing letters to themselves, focused on a reflection of their 8th grade year.

2010-04-12T06:02:00.000-07:00

The 8th grade will start their poetry portfolio project. Students will have time throughout the week to work on their porject.

The portfolio will be due on Thursday, April 22nd.

Students are working on their adventure stories. They will then be shared with the class this week.

This week....March 8th

2010-03-09T05:33:00.000-08:00

In 8th grade language arts, students are selecting persuasive speech topics, and writing thesis statements. Next week we will research topics in the IMC. Persuasive speeches will be given the week of March 22nd and a rubric will be used to grade presentations.

Spring has sprung, have you noticed? My crocuses are up!

2010-02-26T06:30:00.000-08:00

The ISAT tests will be given to Lakeview students next week Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. (March 2nd-5th) Students should be sure to get a good night of rest, and eat breakfast before the test each day. Do your best, and show them how smart we are, Lakeview!

The ISAT's are coming, the ISAT's are coming!

2010-02-16T07:25:00.000-08:00

The week of February 16th through February 19th will be busy.

In 8th grade reading, we will be focusing on ISAT reading extended response. In language we will be reviewing the format of a persuasive essay and writing a timed one for practice.

All book report books are to be read by 2/16. We are starting the book report project this week. Book report presentations will start this Friday.

In 1st hour we are working on our persuasive essays. We are typing essays this week. Final drafts will be due on Friday.

2010-01-31T09:49:00.000-08:00

On Monday we are having a test over West Side Story in 8th grade reading class.

We will be starting Romeo and Juliet soon. Continue reading your book report book!

2010-01-24T17:04:00.000-08:00

On January 25, 1924 the first winter olympic was held in Chamonix, France.

This year the winter olympics will be held in Vancouver, Canada.
It starts on February 12th, 2010.

In Torrino 2006, the US won 25 medals, Germany won 29 medals, and Canada won 24.

Who do you think will win the most medals in 2010?

The Olympic Cauldren lighting is 19 days away!

2010-01-17T07:49:00.001-08:00

8th grade 60's unit debates start Wednesday.

Are you prepared? Have you practiced?

We have a busy week.....

2010-01-11T06:00:00.000-08:00

This week we will be taking the IOWA tests in 6th and 7th grade. Be sure to get a good night's sleep and eat breakfast. Do your best on each test.

This week in 8th grade reading and language arts we are starting research on the 60's unit. Students are researching different aspects of important issues of the 1960's. We will be doing debates in class. Ask your child which character they will be playing....

In 7th grade math we will be having a test over chapter 6.

Stay warm!

2010-01-04T09:03:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year.

This week the 8th grade is starting the 1960's unit.

What a time for change!

Thanksgiving Trivia

2009-11-23T09:45:00.000-08:00

Originally known as Macy's Christmas Parade—to signify the launch of the Christmas shopping season—the first Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade took place in New York City in 1924. It was launched by Macy's employees and featured animals from the Central Park Zoo. Today, some 3 million people attend the annual parade and another 44 million watch it on television.

Tony Sarg, a children's book illustrator and puppeteer, designed the first giant hot air balloons for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1927. He later created the elaborate mechanically animated window displays that grace the façade of the New York store from Thanksgiving to Christmas. Snoopy has appeared as a giant balloon in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade more times than any other character in history. As the Flying Ace, Snoopy made his sixth appearance in the 2006 parade.

The first time the Detroit Lions played football on Thanksgiving Day was in 1934, when they hosted the Chicago Bears at the University of Detroit stadium, in front of 26,000 fans. The NBC radio network broadcast the game on 94 stations across the country--the first national Thanksgiving football broadcast. Since that time, the Lions have played a game every Thanksgiving (except between 1939 and 1944); in 1956, fans watched the game on television for the first time.

Week of November 16th-20th

2009-11-13T09:52:00.000-08:00

Big week this week:

The 7th grade is going bowling on Thursday. In math there will be a quiz on Wednesday.

The 8th grade is going bowling on Friday.

In 8th grade reading and language arts all students should have their biography novel read by Monday. Our book projects will be introduced and rubrics discussed on Monday. All projects will be due on Friday, 11/20/09.

We are finishing The Outsiders novel and the final test will be coming up soon.

Currently, we are working on a persuasive essay. Final drafts essays will be due Friday, 11/20/09.

2009-11-09T11:09:00.000-08:00

Polished essays are due on Wednesday of this week for 10 points of extra credit. Do you have yours typed?

This week in 8th grade reading and language arts we are starting our persuasive essays, and continuing to read The Outsiders novel.

2009-11-01T17:00:00.000-08:00

BEARS WIN!

2009-10-23T06:01:00.000-07:00

Ghouls and goblins will take over the night. But even scary creatures need to be safe
and celebrate Halloween right. Halloween's greatest hazards aren't vampires and
villains, but falls, costume mishaps and automobile collisions.
Safe Halloween tips, the Lucky 13:

• Map out the route that you plan to roam, so adults are assured you will
find your way home!

• From the bravest of superheroes to the noblest of knights, everyone
should remember to bring their flashlights!

• If you visit a house where a stranger resides, accept treats at the door
and, please, don't go inside.

• When you get ready to put on your disguise, use face paint instead of
masks, which will cover your eyes.

• Always remember, before you embark, to wear light-colored clothing
to be seen in the dark! (And remember to use reflective tape, even on
bikes, and brooms and the edges of your cape!)

• Whether you walk, slither or sneak, do it on the sidewalks and not
in the street.

• As you roam through the neighborhood collecting your treats, please
look both ways before crossing the street!

• Wigs, capes and costumes are flammable attire, so avoid open
flames to prevent a fire!

• Use a glow stick instead of a candle so your jack-o-lantern isn't a
safety gamble!

• You may fly on a broom or a space ship from Mars, but please be
on the lookout for drivers in cars! (Between parked cars is no place
to hide, be sure that you’re seen whether you’re a clown or a bride.)

• Monsters and zombies should stay off the lawn, and only visit homes
with their porch lights turned on!

• You may be dressed as a werewolf, a cat or a frog, but be cautious
around strange animals, especially dogs.

2009-10-22T05:59:00.000-07:00

In 8th grade language arts we are currently working on a character sketch essay. Ask your child who they are writing about!

Have you taken time to check out the fall color? It is amazing and at its peak right now. I was at the Morton Arboretum yesterday, what a beautiful place that is.

2009-10-12T16:52:00.000-07:00

The Explore Test will be given to all eighth grade students on Wednesday, October 14th.

Try your best students, it's important!

Get a good night's rest and eat breakfast.

national metric week

2009-09-30T06:12:00.000-07:00

Celebrate National Metric Week, October 4-10, 2009.

Break out your rulers. It's time to celebrate National Metric Week. This fall the week of October 4th–10th (the 10th month of the year and the week containing the 10th day) will be set aside to celebrate the metric system.

Americans will have an opportunity to focus on the importance and convenience of the measurement system based on 10's.

Have you used your meter stick today?

2009-09-26T09:42:00.000-07:00

This week in 8th grade co-taught reading and language, students will be working on the final draft of their narrative essays.

Rough drafts are due on Monday. Make sure you include lots of details. :)

In 7th grade co-taught math we are working with data. We will do a mean, median, and mode project this week.

Hey 8th grade....

2009-09-16T07:05:00.001-07:00

Book reports for ALL 8th graders are due on Friday, September 18th!

2009-09-08T09:53:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that next Tuesday, September 15th is the third week of this trimester.

3 week progress reports are coming out.

****In 7th grade math we are having our chapter 1 test on Friday.

We're off to a great start

2009-08-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to Lakeview Jr. High! I am very excited to work with our students and am anticipating an exciting year. This is my 21th year at Lakeview. This year I will be working with 7th and 8th grade. I am happy to be co-teaching in math as well as reading and language arts.

We seem to be off to a great start to the '09-'10 school year. I hope you’re able to make the Parent Open House on September 10th, where we will cover the curriculum and expectations.

Welcome Back!

2009-08-24T10:28:00.000-07:00

Welcome Back!

Today was Tyler's first day of preschool. She was so excited.

I hope everyone at Lakeview is as excited tomorrow morning! I'm looking forward to seeing everybody.

The fish go on vacation!

2009-06-05T06:52:00.000-07:00

Tyler scored her first babysitting gig yesterday, agreeing to take care of Auntie Dawn's classroom fish for the summer! She got up bright and early to turn on their light and feed them. She named them Smarty (the big one) Smally (the little one). Oh, it's exciting to have a fish tank on your kitchen counter. Thanks for the opportunity, Auntie!

Celebrate Earth Day!

2009-04-21T11:36:00.000-07:00

Think Green!

Don't let the water run while shaving or brushing teeth.

Take short showers instead of tub baths.

Keep drinking water in the refrigerator instead of letting the faucet run until the water is cool.

Scrape, rather than rinse, dishes before loading into the dishwasher; wash only full loads.

Wash only full loads of laundry or use the appropriate water level or load size selection on the washing machine.

Donate extras to people you know or to charity instead of throwing them away.

Reuse grocery bags as trash bags.

Recycle paper (printer paper, newspapers, mail, etc.), plastic, glass bottles, cardboard, and aluminum cans.

Use the http://www.energystar.gov to find energy efficient products for your home. The right choices can save families about 30% ($400 a year) while reducing our emissions of greenhouse gases.

Career Unit

2009-04-14T06:49:00.000-07:00

This week is our last week of research in reading and language arts for the Career Unit. Students are taking notes on note cards in the IMC. They are looking at books and career websites for information. By the end of this week we will be organizing our note cards in order to create our speech outlines.

As a culminating event we will go to the Career Fair on Wednesday, April 22nd. Students will have the opportunity to listen to presentations on careers of their choice. We will dine at McDonalds after the fair.

Wow, isn't she cute!

2009-04-12T07:05:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung!

2009-03-23T08:45:00.000-07:00

March comes in like a lion,

and goes out like a lamb.........

My crosus's are blooming!

Seriously

2009-03-12T08:05:00.000-07:00

Abraham Lincoln, who invented a hydraulic device for lifting ships over shoals, was the only US president ever granted a patent.

Antarctica is the only continent without reptiles or snakes.

Australia is the only country that is also a continent.

Baskin Robbins once made ketchup ice cream. This was the only vegetable flavored ice cream produced.

Bats are the only mammal that can fly.

Bats have only one baby a year.

Elvis Presley made only one television commercial - an ad for "Southern Maid Doughnuts" that ran in 1954.

Gerald Ford was the only US president not to have been elected to either the presidency or the vice presidency.

Giraffes are the only animals born with horns. Both males and females are born with bony knobs on the forehead.

Grover Cleveland is the only US president to have been married in the White House.

Hawaii is the only US state that grows coffee.

Honey is the only food that does not spoil. Honey found in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs has been tasted by archaeologists and found edible.

James Buchanan was the only US president never to be married.

Maine is the only state in the United States whose name is just one syllable.

Ohio is the only US state without a rectangular flag. Ohio's flag is a pennant.

Q is the only letter in the alphabet that does not appear in the name of any state of the United States.

Teeth are the only parts of the human body that can't repair themselves.

quiz tomorrow

2009-02-19T12:08:00.000-08:00

In math we are working on two step equations.

The goal is to isolate the variable, or solve for X.

***Students need to remember their integer rules that were memorized for the blue sheet quizzes.

PxP=P

NxN=P

PxN=N

P+P=P

N+N=N

P+N=subtract and use the sign of the larger number.

2009-02-06T07:34:00.000-08:00

We celebrated my niece, Tyler's 3rd birthday and had a great time! Tyler and her NICU baby friend Adaline were reunited for the first time since leaving Children's Memorial and it was an awesome reunion. We celebrate Tyler's incredible health each year on her birthday and there was no better way to do that than with Adaline. The two of them inspire me - truthfully, seeing them together, both very happy and healthy 3 years later, was overwhelming.

Goodbye Rod

2009-01-30T11:22:00.000-08:00

Former Governor Rod Blagojevich was bounced from office Thursday without a single lawmaker rising in his defense, ending a nearly two-month crisis that erupted with his arrest on charges he tried to sell Barack Obama's vacant Senate seat.

Blagojevich becomes the first U.S. governor in more than 20 years to be removed by impeachment.

After a four-day trial, the Illinois Senate voted 59-0 to convict him of abuse of power, automatically ousting the second-term Democrat. In a second, identical vote, lawmakers further barred Blagojevich from ever holding public office in the state again.

Pat Quinn, the new governor, is a 60-year-old former state treasurer and tax attorney. He is best known for his efforts to cut big government and protect the little guy. One of the most pressing issues for him is the state's deficit of more than $3 billion

"I want to say to the people of Illinois, the ordeal is over," Quinn said. "In this moment, our hearts are hurt. And it's very important to know that we have a duty, a mission to restore the faith of the people of Illinois in the integrity of their government." .

2009-01-21T11:30:00.001-08:00

Change comes to America

2009-01-20T11:30:00.000-08:00

As I sat watching the inauguration this morning, I couldn't help getting overwhelmed with emotion. What an awesome historical day. I'm confident that someday everyone will have a similar appreciation of the magnatude of the event.

Who can't appreciate a president that does the bump at the Inaugural ball?!

IOWAs THIS WEEK

2009-01-12T07:14:00.000-08:00

The IOWA Test of Basic Skills will be given to 6th and 7th graders week this Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Students should be sure to get a good night of rest, and eat breakfast before the test.

Martin L King Jr.

2009-01-11T19:03:00.000-08:00

Did You Know King's nonviolent doctrine was strongly influenced by the teachings of Indian leader Mohandas Gandhi?

In 1964, King became the first black American to be honored as Time magazine's Man of the Year. King's efforts were not limited to securing civil rights; he also spoke out against poverty and the Vietnam War.

Martin Luther King, Jr., Quotes:
"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character."

"Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.""There can be no deep disappointment where there is not deep love."

"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed:
"We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal."

**Martin Luther King, Jr. (Jan. 15, 1929-April 4, 1968) was one of the main leaders of the American civil rights movement. King was a Baptist minister, one of the few leadership roles available to black men at the time. He became a civil rights activist early in his career. He raised public consciousness of the civil rights movement and established himself as one of the greatest orators in U.S. history. In 1964, King became the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to end segregation and racial discrimination. King was assassinated on April 4, 1968.

2008-12-12T12:46:00.000-08:00

The cold and flu season has arrived.
Here are ten simple tips that will help you avoid colds and the flu.

Bar soap is a perfect breeding ground for viruses and bacteria. Wash your hands frequently with liquid antibacterial soap instead of bar soap.

Don't share drinking glasses. Instead, use disposable cups in the kitchen and bathroom, using each cup only once and then disposing.

Use disposable tissues when blowing your nose; use each tissue once, throw it away then wash your hands thouroughly.

Colds and flu are often spread by hand-to-hand contact. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth after being exposed to viruses or bacteria.

Bacteria and viruses can live on hand towels and sponges for hours. Use disposable paper napkins and towels in the kitchen.

To kill bacteria and viruses, wash toys regularly in warm, soapy water.

If you have to sneeze and a tissue is unavailable, sneeze into your shoulder not your hands to avoid spreading germs.

Frequently clean surfaces such as stair rails, telephones, counter tops and door knobs to avoid hand-to-hand spread of viruses.

Germs remain in stagnant air; open windows when weather permits to circulate fresh air.

Avoid smoking at home. Smoking is a respiratory irritant that increases susceptibility to viruses that cause colds and the flu.

Stay healthy!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2008-12-01T08:55:00.000-08:00

It's December 1st and it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Today, we had our first big snow of the season. It looks beautiful outside!

I've seen so many beautiful Christmas lights decorating homes around my neighborhood.

My husband I went to Ide Farms this weekend and cut down our tree. We were excited to find a bird's nest in our first tree for our new home. We plan to save it and put it in the tree for years to come. If you haven't gotten your tree yet, I highly recommend Ide Farms. Their trees are perfect!

The hustle and bustle at the mall is crazy. Shoppers are looking for bargains everywhere.

Tattau, Santa's elf, came to town Thanksgiving eve and is reporting every child's behavior to Santa daily. Be good!

2008-11-17T15:58:00.000-08:00

We had a great visit with Santa today. Macy's has done a great job of decorating for the holiday season.They even have a station where you can write a letter to Santa and send it to the North Pole. Tyler was super cute and can't wait for Santa to visit.

We had lunch at the Walnut Room. The Field's Special was awesome.

One disappointment was the big tree. This year FOA Shwartz did the tree and for some reason they did not need to include Unlce Mistletoe. As many of you know, Uncle Mistletoe is Santa's helper, and has been on the tree for years. He is displayed in a case, however it is tradition to find Unlce Mistletoe atop the tree.

Obama Wins!

2008-11-05T05:37:00.000-08:00

"I want to campaign the same way I govern, which is to respond directly and forcefully with the truth,"~ Barack Obama, 11/08/07

Barack Obama claimed the White House, saying his election as the first African-American president of the United States sent a message that ``change has come'' to a troubled nation.

``If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time, who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer,'' Obama, 47, told more than 125,000 cheering supporters in Chicago.

A wave of discontent with Republican rule and the nation's direction powered the Illinois senator to a sweeping electoral victory over Republican rival John McCain. Obama won at least 349 electoral votes, far more than the 270 needed for a majority and the most for a winner since former President Bill Clinton got 379 electoral votes in 1996.

The results should encourage ``those who've been told for so long by so many to be cynical and fearful and doubtful about what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day,'' Obama said.

Halloween fun

2008-11-03T05:44:00.000-08:00

HALLOWEEN FUN

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T12:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween

Be safe while Trick-or-Treating. Watch for cars when you cross the street, and throw away any suspicious looking candy.

SUPPLIES, another hot tip............

2008-10-27T07:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday!

This week, while you are getting ready for trick-or-treating, I bet you will be searching the house for just the right item to complete your costume.

Here is my hot tip of the day: While you are searching throughout the house, look for the supplies you are missing in your binder.

Many of you can not find a pencil or pen in your pencil case, you are taking notes with colored pencils. Your math spiral was used up two weeks ago. And your loose leaf paper is a distant reminder of the past. Find your materials, Lakeview students, and come to school feeling prepared! :)

................GET SOME TODAY!

2008-10-23T18:51:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Trivia

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Pumpkins But Were Afraid To Ask...

- Pumpkins are fruits. A pumpkin is a type of squash and is a member of the gourd family (Cucurbitacae), which also includes squash, cucumbers, gherkins, and melons.

- The largest pumpkin pie ever baked was in 2005 and weighed 2,020 pounds.

- Pumpkins have been grown in North America for five thousand years. They are indigenous to the western hemisphere.

- In 1584, after French explorer Jacques Cartier explored the St. Lawrence region of North America, he reported finding "gros melons." The name was translated into English as "pompions," which has since evolved into the modern "pumpkin."

- Pumpkins are low in calories, fat, and sodium and high in fiber. They are good sources of Vitamin A, Vitamin B, potassium, protein, and iron.

- The largest pumpkin ever grown was 1,689 pounds. It was grown by Joe Jutras of North Scituate, Rhode Island.

- Pumpkin seeds should be planted between the last week of May and the middle of June. They take between 90 and 120 days to grow and are picked in October when they are bright orange in color. Their seeds can be saved to grow new pumpkins the next year.

2008-10-22T16:37:00.000-07:00

“Baby-cut” carrots aren’t baby carrots. They’re actually full-sized ones peeled and polished down to size. And there’s nothing small about their current popularity: about 25 percent of California’s fresh carrot crop is turned into “babies.”

Of about 350 million cans of chicken noodle soup of all commercial brands sold annually in the United States, 60 percent is purchased during the cold and flu season. January is the top-selling month of the year.

Of all the potatoes grown in the United States, only 8 percent are used to make potato chips. Special varieties referred to as "chipping potatoes" are grown for this purpose

In 1948, it was common to see carhops serving those who wanted to order food from their car. Harry Snyder of Baldwin park, California had the idea of a drive-thru hamburger stand where customers could order through a two-way speaker box. Harry opened California's first drive-thru hamburger stand, named "In-N-Out Burger". Today In-N-Out remains privately owned and has 148 stores in 3 states. They serve a tasty burger!

The king of hearts is the only king without a moustache on a standard playing card.

The loop on a belt that holds the loose end is called a "keeper."

The most requested photo from the National Archives is a shot of Elvis offering his services as a drug enforcement agent to Nixon. See, I'm not the only one who has this picture!

More than 40 percent of the women in the United States were in the Girl Scouts organization. Two-thirds of the women listed in Who's Who of Women were Girl Scouts. Hmmmm...I was a Campfire Girl.

HOT TIP OF THE DAY......

2008-10-21T10:09:00.000-07:00

CALCULATORS........

THEY ARE THE NEW "IN" THING.

(LIKE BROWN;)

BRING ONE TO YOUR MATH CLASS! THEY MAKE MATH EASIER!

scary

2008-10-13T15:39:00.000-07:00

I received a scary text message from my son last week. He informed me that he had received his drivers permit. My initial thought....Oh say it isn't so!! Today I picked Ryan up, as the car approached he motioned " How about I drive."

Reluctantly, I moved to the passenger's seat and fastened my seat belt. I don't know who was more nervous at first, me or Ry. He wanted to chicken out and take the back way home. After a deep breath, we powered on, and lived to laugh about it. 49 hours and 55 minutes to go!

Go Sox, Go!

2008-10-06T07:41:00.000-07:00

Well sports fans, it was a big weekend.

The Bears played an awesome game this weekend and are in first place. Go Kyle!

The White Sox won their playoff game, keeping the 2008 playoffs alive in Chicago. Lets Go, Lets Go White Sox we're with you all the way..............My pick to click for today is Paulie.

And the Cubbies well, they are the Cubs. Maybe next year, Cub fans!

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

2008-09-25T07:22:00.000-07:00

Baseball fever! Listen to my niece Tyler’s rendition of Take Me Out to the Ballgame. If you’re not excited about this 2008 baseball season now, you will be after watching her inspired performance.

Go Sox(and Cubs too, I guess)!

2008-09-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

In Homebase we are having a competition with other Homebases to see who can sell the most magazines in the PTO sale. As you probably know, the PTO provides lots of great things for the Lakeview staff and students. If the student have 800 orders, we are going to compete in our own Kentucky Derby!

Sell Magazines, Douvris's Devin Hesters!!

BRING A CALCULATOR!!

2008-09-17T09:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Math Students,

This year in math class we are going to use calculators.

Each student in my class must have their own calculator.

*****Please bring a calculator to class everyday.

Thanks,
Mrs. Douvris

2008-09-12T12:05:00.000-07:00

Your Invited to a Parent's night out!

What: Open House/Curriculum Night

When: Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Time: 6:45 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Where: Lakeview Jr. High

*****Ask your hild who their Homebase teacher is. You will need that information on Tuesday!

2008-09-05T11:22:00.000-07:00

Welcome back. I am very excited to work with you and your student this year. This year starts my twenty-first year of teaching at Lakeview Jr. High. The following is a brief overview of the resource/strategies grading system, goals, and the purpose of this class. I look forward to meeting you at the parent curriculum night where I any will further explain the curriculum and classroom expectations.

There are two main goals in Resource/Strategies. First this class period provides us with the contact time necessary to monitor students for organization, homework completion, and understanding of material presented in academic classes. Assistance and additional instruction will be provided whenever necessary throughout the school year. Study guides may be assigned, and study sessions will take place for upcoming tests.

The second goal of the program is to work on skills which a student may be weak or lacking. This is accomplished through skill work that focuses on greater reading comprehension, proofreading, word processing skills and test taking techniques. These skills are formally addressed one day each week.

Students do receive a grade for resource/strategies! This is based upon evaluation of skill work covered, completion of study guides, and class expectations. It is my policy that all skill assignments with a grade below a “C” be corrected. A new grade will then be averaged for a final grade. Late assignments will be accepted until the end of the trimester. Below is a list of the class expectations along with an explanation of each.

Missing assignments (5 points per week) – I receive grade reports from your teachers on Tuesday. If you have all of your assignments in for the week you will receive 5 points. One point will be deducted for each missing assignment.

Assignment notebook (5 points per week) - I will have random assignment notebook checks weekly. It is your responsibility to have ALL of your assignments in your notebook. If you have them all recorded you will receive 5 points for the week. One point will be deducted for each missing assignment. If there is an assignment for a class, it MUST be recorded. If the assignment is complete, cross it out. “NONE” is only acceptable if there is not an assignment for that day.

Weekly assignments (100 points per week) – There will be one assignment to be completed each week. Reading comprehension activities will be completed in class and typing activities will be completed in the IMC.

Students do have some major responsibilities within the Resource/Strategies classroom. I would appreciate it if you would discuss these responsibilities with your child. If you have any questions regarding the Resource/Strategies class or its policies, do not hesitate to e-mail or call me.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Douvris
Ddouvris@ccsd66.org

Student Responsibilities in Resource:
It is my responsibility to ask for help if I need it. If I don’t understand what is being asked of me or how to go about doing it, I will ask the teacher or for help. After all, they aren’t mind readers.

It is my responsibility to fill out my assignment notebook each period to the best of my ability. I will not rely on my “memory” to fill things in later. If I can’t get something down, I will ask for the correct assignment when I get to Resource.

It is my responsibility to use my Resource time well.
I know if I stay focused and do my work in Resource I can get all the help I may need and may very well finish most, if not all, of my assignments for the day. Awesome!

It is my responsibility to have my completed work checked in Resource before I leave, or in the morning before school. I can be the only kid in class who knows, positively that all of my answers are correct and I’ve done the work correctly! How cool is that?!

It is my responsibility to correct and turn in any grade lower than a “C” if I want a good grade in Resource. What a deal! If I goof up on a skill lesson or a typing assignment I can do it over to raise my grade. I can even get help first!

It is my responsibility to take charge of my learning!

In closing, this is the first week of the 2008 Bear season. Go Bears, beat the Colts!

summer

2008-08-17T16:10:00.000-07:00

Well this has been a great summer, but it is just about over. Take time to enjoy the last few days of summer vacation.

I have had a busy summer working at home. My husband and I built a home and moved in May. I have spent the summer working to get my grass to grow, and our house decorated and organized. I have enjoyed hanging curtains, and art. I'll admit to taking time to garage sale and read some books, while enjoying the view from my sunroom. I took a short trip to San Diego, California and Michigan with my family.

A highlight of the summer was a potty party I attended with my sister and niece, Tyler. There were gifts, balloons and special snacks for successful trips to the potty. I am happy and proud to report that Tyler is now a big girl!

Ryan is going to be a sophomore at Oswego East this year. He is on the cross county team and is spending lots of time practicing with the marching band. Ryan took up archery this summer and has made a range next door. He's is getting pretty good at the bulls eyes. He also built a raft and crazy ramp to ride off of into the pond. Can we say crazy?

How about those Olympics? My favorite categories are swimming, diving, and gymnastics. These athletes are something to watch. Michael Phelps swimming records and gold medals are impressive!

Naper Settlement

2008-05-30T12:19:00.000-07:00

The 7th grade took their final field trip today to Naper Settlement. Though we had a good time and the exhibits were interesting, the weather could have been a bit better. At least we didn't hear to tornado sirens!!

My sister sent me these pictures today. After spending the day in the rain, I thought it was nice to see a summer day.

May is National Teen Self-Esteem Month

2008-05-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

May is National Teen Self-Esteem Month, a month that was started in order to battle against the negative self-image that teens often have. During this month, parents and teachers are encouraged to be positive role models for teens, promote diversity, and foster a positive body image. It's important to remember that this generation of teens will be the next generation of leaders, so making them confident and secure is an important task.

Tyler is trying to boost her self-esteem. I think she is a bit young for lipstick! :)

Week of May 12th

2008-05-09T12:03:00.002-07:00

On Wednesday, May 14th, the 7th grade is going on a field trip to downtown Chicago. Students need to bring a sack lunch. Students will be doing a culminating group project in social studies class.

Don't forget to wish your mom a Happy Mother's Day! Bring her a flower or do something nice for her.....maybe the dishes or clean your room!

Spartan Spirit Games

2008-04-29T09:47:00.000-07:00

For the next five weeks the 7th grade Homebases will be competing in the Spartan Spirit Games. The purpose of the games is to put into effect the pillars of character: to work together as a team, to cooperate with one another, to try our best, and to have fun.

Students will participate in ten different events, and will be scored on each event as well as receiving Esprit De Corps points for teamwork and sportsmanship.

Everyone seems to be enjoying the games so far. Go teams!

Earth Week Recycle everyone!

2008-04-25T10:16:00.000-07:00

Don't let the water run while shaving or brushing teeth.

Take short showers instead of tub baths.

Keep drinking water in the refrigerator instead of letting the faucet run until the water is cool.

Scrape, rather than rinse, dishes before loading into the dishwasher; wash only full loads.

Wash only full loads of laundry or use the appropriate water level or load size selection on the washing machine.

Donate extras to people you know or to charity instead of throwing them away.

Reuse grocery bags as trash bags.

Recycle paper (printer paper, newspapers, mail, etc.), plastic, glass bottles, cardboard, and aluminum cans.

Use the Energy Star program (http://www.energystar.gov) to find energy efficient products for your home. The right choices can save families about 30% ($400 a year) while reducing our emissions of greenhouse gases.

I feel the earth move under my feet......

2008-04-18T09:47:00.000-07:00

People across the Midwest were awakened today by a 5.2 magnitude earthquake that rattled skyscrapers in Chicago's Loop and homes in Cincinnati but appeared to cause no major injuries or damage.Dozens of aftershocks followed, one with a magnitude of 4.5.The quake just before 4:37 a.m. was centered six miles from West Salem, Il. It was felt in distant cities such as Milwaukee, Des Moines, Iowa, and Atlanta, nearly 400 miles to the southeast.

The quake is believed to have involved the Wabash fault, a northern extension of the New Madrid fault about six miles north of Mount Carmel, Il., said United States Geological Survey geophysicist Randy Baldwin.

The last earthquake in the region to approach the severity of Friday's temblor was a 5.0 magnitude quake that shook a nearby area in 2002.

The strongest earthquake on record with an epicenter in Illinois occurred in 1968, when a 5.3-magnitude temblor was recorded about 75 miles southeast of St. Louis, according the USGS. The damage was minor but widespread and there were no serious injuries.

Experts say that with the much higher population in the Midwest, another major quake along the New Madrid fault zone could destroy buildings, bridges, roads and other infrastructure, disrupt communications and isolate areas.

The San Francisco earthquake also on April 18, 1906 ranks as one of the most significant earthquakes of all time. Over 700 deaths resulted from the quake.

upcoming dates for April

2008-04-09T06:07:00.000-07:00

Next week, the week of April 14th, all 7th grade students are starting a career/college project in math.

ALL 7TH GRADERS NEED A POSTER BOARD FOR CLASS.

April 23rd the 7th grade is going to the Career Fair. After the fair they are going to Pizza Hut for lunch.

Have you noticed how green the grass is getting?

career unit

2008-04-04T12:56:00.000-07:00

This week the 7th grade started a career unit.

In language art they are researching a career and presenting a speech in class.

In math they will be doing a college projection project.

In science the students took a career inventory survey.

As a culminating event they are taking a field trip to the career fair late in April

Ask your child what career they are researching!

first day of spring

2008-03-20T05:43:00.000-07:00

Today, March 20th, is the first day of spring.
The sun will rise due East, and set due West today.
Have a relaxing break everyone, and...
Hoppy Easter!

Big test week this week!

2008-03-17T06:16:00.000-07:00

Monday:
SS test
Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Tuesday:
Science test
Mrs. Mastny 5th, 7th

Wednesday:
Spanish
Mrs. Mastny

Thursday:
Math test
Pre-Algebra
First day of spring

Friday:
Enjoy your spring break!

Ryan

2008-03-07T05:32:00.000-08:00

This was a big week at the Douvris household. My son, Ryan, got his braces off. He looked forward to it for weeks. The big day finally arrived. Ry, sporting a new haircut, excitedly entered the doors of the orthodontist office. Kicking his heels, he left feeling like a new man.....new smile, new do, new season, new grades and effort in school, new house soon. Congrats, Ry

Now that I have your attention.....

ISATs start next Monday.

Remember to:

1. Get a good sleep (go to bed early, say 9:00)

2. Eat breakfast each day of the test. (maybe pancakes)

3. Show them how smart you are, and give it your best
effort.

Casimir Pulaski

2008-02-28T13:03:00.000-08:00

Casimir Pulaski foght in America's War of Independence.
On Washington's recommendation, the Continental Congress appointed Pulaski general of the cavalry on September 15, 1777. But even before his formal appointment, he demonstrated his value. At the battle of Brandywine Creek, where Washington's forces suffered a defeat, Pulaski led a counterattack that covered the retreat of the Americans and helped prevent a military disaster.

In 1779, Pulaski was ordered to join General Lincoln in the South to help recapture Savannah. After French General D'Estaing, leader in the attack on the southern capital, fell wounded, Pulaski is reported to have rushed forward to assume command and raise the soldiers' spirits by his example and courage, only to be mortally wounded himself. Pulaski was named the "Father of the American Cavalry", and remains one of the well known figures of the American Revolutionary War. There is hardly a state in America without a county or town, street, monument, school or highway named in grateful memory of General Casimir Pulaski.

lunar eclipse

2008-02-20T18:57:00.000-08:00

Check out the lunar eclipse! It is really neat. A total lunar eclipse occurs when the full moon passes into Earth's shadow and is blocked from the sun's rays that normally illuminate it.

During an eclipse, the sun, Earth and moon line up, leaving a darkened moon visible to observers. The earth's shadow is blocking the sun's light from the moon. As the moonlight dims -- it won't go totally dark -- Saturn and Regulus will pop out and sandwich the moon. Regulus is the brightest star in the constellation Leo.

A lunar eclipse can only occur at full moon. The eclipse sequence will begin with a partial eclipse starting at 8:43 p.m. and will end at 12:09 a.m. Thursday. The total eclipse of the moon will occur at 10:01 p.m. and last until 10:51 p.m.

Tonight is last full lunar eclipse until December 2010. Check it out!

IOWA Tests Next week Feb 19-21

2008-02-15T07:32:00.000-08:00

The IOWA Test of Basic Skills will be given to 6th and 7th graders next week Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Students should be sure to get a good night of rest, and eat breakfast before the test.

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T17:06:00.001-08:00

I am passing along this cute valentine I received.....

Uno, Best in Show at the Westminster Dog Show

2008-02-13T05:58:00.000-08:00

The nation’s new top dog was clearly the fan favorite, and drew a standing ovation from the sold-out crowd at Madison Square Garden when he was picked. Uno got right into the act, jumping up on handler Aaron Wilkerson and confirming his other title: noisiest in show. Years from now, he’ll be known for the “ah-roo” heard ’round the ring. The only dog consistently listed among America’s most popular breeds for nearly 100 years, a beagle had never won in the 100 times Westminster picked a winner.

That changed when judge J. Donald Jones pointed to this nearly 3-year-old package of personality. Uno was numero uno. 169 breeds and varieties were represented at the 132nd Westminster Kennel Club event, and the competition brought 2,627 entries.

Barks echoed around Madison Square Garden as the crowd cheered its favorite. Uno came into this competition with 32 best in show ribbons overall. No beagle had even won the hound group since 1939. So while other dogs tried to reach the final ring Tuesday, Uno spent the day going on a brisk walk around Manhattan and taking a nap underneath his warm, fuzzy blanket. But when it came time to show, Uno was as precocious and precious as ever. With fans calling out his name and clapping, he soaked in the cheers as he walked around the ring. And when he made his final stop in front of Jones, Uno went to town, baying over and over.

Abraham Lincoln

2008-02-12T05:37:00.000-08:00

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, guided his country through the most devastating experience in its national history--the CIVIL WAR. He is considered by many historians to have been the greatest American president.

Lincoln was born on Feb. 12, 1809. He was assassinated on Good Friday, April 14, 1865.

Rock Stars in the making.....

2008-02-10T15:08:00.002-08:00

Today, at Shanahan's, some current and former District 66 students were rockin'!

First to perform from Lakeview, was Frank P., who did an awesome job on guitar. Graduate, Nick P., also played in the band. They were "Back in Black" and rocked the crowd.

Third to perform was another former student, Ashley L. and her cousin Kyle P., who attends Prairieview. Ashley, the group's lead singer, sure looked like a rocker wearing a great pink top and awesome stiletto heals. The crowd begged for an encore and they gladly obliged!

Nice job, guys!

Rock

2008-02-10T15:08:00.001-08:00

Enjoy your snow day!!!

2008-02-01T09:20:00.000-08:00

1. Snowflakes when viewed at microscopic levels are really
groups of tiny snow crystals.

2. No two snowflakes are exactly alike.

3. Snow crystals are water molecules stacked together.

4. As the crystal grows larger, the corners sprout tiny arms,
since they stick out a bit further
into the saturated air (and thus grow a bit faster).

5. Snow flakes reflect visible sunlight, which includes lots of
colors. Since all colors are scattered
roughly equally well, the snow flake appears white.

6. Most snowflakes are less than half an inch across.

7. The biggest snowflakes can be up to two inches across.