TEACHING DURING THE PANDEMIC
Eta Mu held its first Zoom Meeting in November. The topic was “Teaching During the Pandemic”. Members shared their experiences and challenges working with students online.
Julie Kelly, Eta Mu’s newest member, talked about teaching kindergarten via distance learning. She started her year with a virtual Back to School presentation with Google slides. Each day she had a plan for instruction and centers with materials that were sent home. Although Julie says it’s “fun”, she prefers teaching “live” with the kids in the classroom. She also said that as teachers we need to be really flexible and that we are “never done learning”.
Denise Carlson-Nieto teaches English learners and supports regular classroom teachers. Denise will continue teaching via Zoom since students will be staying in their homeroom. She says teaching using Hapara has helped her grow and really stretched her. It has also been an eye-opening experience seeing family situations through the eyes of the camera. Many of the students work in challenging home environments, but they are doing their best to attend lessons and practice English. At her site students are rewarded through a PBIS(Positive Behavior Intervention Systems) program with Cub Cash that they can spend in a video catalogue. For her it has been frustrating not to sit with a kid and help them “over a hump”.
Another member, Theresa Foote shared that teaching online is interesting, challenging, and rewarding. It has taught her to “think outside the box” as she plans lessons using a variety of online tools. One plus is that she is able to focus on what is essential in her 7th grade math curriculum. Using Peardeck she can see students’ responses and check for understanding. Like our other teachers, Theresa says it is rewarding to see students showing up, participating, and learning. Some of Theresa’s students are out of the country in Mexico and Brazil and still participating in her class.
The Zoom meeting concluded with a business meeting, and a legislative presentation by Heather Nonaca, Chapter Legislative Rep.
Painting in the Garden
Eta Mu members attended an art event, Painting in the Garden, on a lovely fall afternoon. They gathered to paint Poppies under the tutelage of local artist Pam Phillips who grew up in Modesto and taught art to elementary students in several local schools. Pam loves to paint classic cars and is intrigued with painting the reflections on them. She shows her paintings in the Mistlin Art Gallery.
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Eta Mu Chapter Officers for 2020-2022 Installed
Congratulations to our new officers, Co-Presidents Linda Chrabas and Judy Trask, 1st Vice President Theresa Foote, 2nd Vice President Debbie Mar, Secretary Denise Carlson-Nieto, Treasurer Lynn Lysko and Parliamentarian Janice Freeman. Due to the Corona Virus, a small group gathered to celebrate the initiation of officers. All brought their own lunches and spent time visiting. The slate of officers will begin planning activities for the 2020-2021 year. Go to the Eta Mu Executive Committee page or the Member Biographies to find out more about our chapter leaders.
Eta Mu Chapter Service 2019-2020 Year
Chapter Service Awards were given to three Eta Mu members.
In addition, Eta Mu Chapter was awarded the Order of the Rose and is once again a Five Star Honor Chapter.
- For her "Service to the Chapter," Judy Trask was recognized for the many years she has served as the editor of our newsletter, in addition to being chapter 1st VP. Currently Judy is serving as co-president for the coming biennium
- For Professional Service, Adele Little wad recognized for the wealth of guidance she has provided for area school districts as a consultant and grant writer, as well as recognitions of the many years she professionally handled our chapter's finances. Adele also has worked with Learning Quest and tutored students at all levels.
- For Public Service, Carol Vieira was recognized for her service to education through Stanislaus County Office of Education, also for taking on the public role of Area XVII Director for the 2019-2021 Biennium.
In addition, Eta Mu Chapter was awarded the Order of the Rose and is once again a Five Star Honor Chapter.
Eta Mu Inducts Three New Members
Eta Mu members had wonderful time at Joyce Brooks’s beautiful home in her lovely garden for the 2019-20 “Kickoff” meeting. Three new members were inducted, Theresa Foote, Sally Price and Elena Vasquez.
Lynn Lysko nominated her long time friend, Theresa Foote. Theresa is nearing the 30-year mark for teaching, all of which has been at Roosevelt JHS. She has taught both science and mathematics and holds a degree from UC Berkeley. Theresa presented a photo workshop, at the March Eta Mu meeting and is very interested in being part of Eta Mu’s activities.
Denise Carlson-Nieto nominated Sally Price for membership. She met Sally Price when Sally’s daughter, Caitlin, was in her first-grade class. Sally volunteered to play music in Denise’s classroom on a regular basis. After nearly 40 years, Sally recently retired from teaching music for the Turlock Unified School District. She is active in the local music community playing several instruments, including hand bells and the ukulele. She performs with Opus Hand Bells, along with our Eta Mu sister, Judy Aprile. Sally has two children, Caitlin and Geoff, and one grandson, Jack.
Pat Elston nominated Elena Vasquez who is an outstanding early career educator. She received the Area XVII Outstanding Teacher Award in 2018. Elena is working on her MA in education as she is teaching fourth grade at Crossroads Elementary School in the Sylvan Union School District. She was awarded the Eta Mu Grant in June 2019, to use for her classroom. In the summer, Elena volunteers with the Youth Leadership Forum as a counselor to help disabled students develop personal leadership plans to reach their future education and career goals. Elena is an outstanding example of an educator who strives for excellence. Elena will present at the Area XVII Conference October 12.
In addition to the induction of new members, Eta Mu feasted on scrumptious food, and heard the exciting details of the coming year’s activities. Eta Mu members generously donated books for the Area XVII Conference Buck-a-Book, items and money for the Modesto Gospel Mission, and a bushel basket assortment of goodies for the conference raffle.
Lynn Lysko nominated her long time friend, Theresa Foote. Theresa is nearing the 30-year mark for teaching, all of which has been at Roosevelt JHS. She has taught both science and mathematics and holds a degree from UC Berkeley. Theresa presented a photo workshop, at the March Eta Mu meeting and is very interested in being part of Eta Mu’s activities.
Denise Carlson-Nieto nominated Sally Price for membership. She met Sally Price when Sally’s daughter, Caitlin, was in her first-grade class. Sally volunteered to play music in Denise’s classroom on a regular basis. After nearly 40 years, Sally recently retired from teaching music for the Turlock Unified School District. She is active in the local music community playing several instruments, including hand bells and the ukulele. She performs with Opus Hand Bells, along with our Eta Mu sister, Judy Aprile. Sally has two children, Caitlin and Geoff, and one grandson, Jack.
Pat Elston nominated Elena Vasquez who is an outstanding early career educator. She received the Area XVII Outstanding Teacher Award in 2018. Elena is working on her MA in education as she is teaching fourth grade at Crossroads Elementary School in the Sylvan Union School District. She was awarded the Eta Mu Grant in June 2019, to use for her classroom. In the summer, Elena volunteers with the Youth Leadership Forum as a counselor to help disabled students develop personal leadership plans to reach their future education and career goals. Elena is an outstanding example of an educator who strives for excellence. Elena will present at the Area XVII Conference October 12.
In addition to the induction of new members, Eta Mu feasted on scrumptious food, and heard the exciting details of the coming year’s activities. Eta Mu members generously donated books for the Area XVII Conference Buck-a-Book, items and money for the Modesto Gospel Mission, and a bushel basket assortment of goodies for the conference raffle.
Eta Mu Awarded Grants in Aid to First Year Teachers
At the June Garden Party Eta Mu award grants to two local first year teachers. Elena Vasquez, fourth grade teacher at Crossroads Elementary in the Sylvan School District, was awarded a $500 grant to use in her classroom. Carolyn LaBass, a new member and first year teacher at Eisenhut Elementary in the Stanislaus Union School District was awarded $100 for her classroom. Eta Mu congratulates these outstanding new teachers.
Also in attendance was the Outstanding Student Teacher for Area XVII, Amanda Boersma. Gloria Bracco, Area Director, awarded the honor and grant to Amanda who was nominated by an Eta Mu member. Amanda's proud family joined her at the Garden Party.
Eta Mu is proud to support Early Career Educators.
Eta Mu is proud to support Early Career Educators.
Two Eta Mu Members Love Modesto! ❤️
Eta Mu member Denise Carlson-Nieto was everywhere at Chrysler Elementary as coordinator of the Love Modesto’s project to show the school some TLC. Here she is with Janice Freeman helping mark books for discard from the school’s library. Her nephews were there working out in the grounds, and time was also spent cleaning the staff rooms.
PAINT NIGHT AT THE MISTLIN GALLERY
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Lots of fun and fellowship were had by members and guests at the April Paint Night at Mistlin Gallery in downtown Modesto. Members gathered for appetizers before a Paint Pouring experience with Linda Knoll. It was a creative and fun event.
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Carol Wharton Presents her Artwork
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Carol Wharton shared her journey in art with her sisters at a chapter meeting. She explained how she has worked on various techniques since her retirement. Carol spent last summer studying in Italy and has some excellent work to show as a result of her trip.
Click the link below to learn more about Carol. 
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ETA MU DONATES 60 JAROD "BOXES"
TO MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, MODESTO
Eta Mu members met in December to fill shoe boxes and small bags to support the Jarod Box Project. The goal of the Jared Box Project is to lift the spirits of chronically ill children. The boxes symbolize the importance of play and are filled with well wishes, hope, and love.
With a bounty of donated items including, books, games, toys, drawing materials, and more, members filled 60 boxes. Janice Freeman and Linda Chrabas delivered them to the pediatric unit at Memorial Hospital where nursing staff was grateful to receive them.
While in line purchasing items for Jarod boxes, member Adele Little struck up a conversation with the mother of a child who was a recipient of a Jarod Box while at Memorial Hospital. She said when the nurse brought in the box and gave it to her daughter, she immediately calmed and was ready for treatment. Such stories make our work worthwhile.
With a bounty of donated items including, books, games, toys, drawing materials, and more, members filled 60 boxes. Janice Freeman and Linda Chrabas delivered them to the pediatric unit at Memorial Hospital where nursing staff was grateful to receive them.
While in line purchasing items for Jarod boxes, member Adele Little struck up a conversation with the mother of a child who was a recipient of a Jarod Box while at Memorial Hospital. She said when the nurse brought in the box and gave it to her daughter, she immediately calmed and was ready for treatment. Such stories make our work worthwhile.
FLAPJACK FUND RAISER
BENEFITS GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Eta Mu's Annual Flapjack Fundraiser at Applebee's raised over $600 to fund scholarship and grants for upcoming and new teachers. Members served breakfast and raffled door prizes.
CHAPTER MEETINGS AND EVENTS 2019-2020
Eta Mu has a year filled with exciting events for members and guests. For complete details visit the Members Only Area.
FallOur Fall programs begin with the Kick-Off in September. In October, there are two events. On the 12th, the Area XVII Fall Conference will be held at Martin Petersen Event Center in Mdesto. A fund raiser is scheduled for October at Applebee's Restaurant.
In November. Eta Mu member Elena Vasquez will speak about Youth Leadership Forum. |
WinterIn December, members will celebrate the season by attending the Yes, Virginia at the Gallo Theater followed by a no-host dinner.
January will be a Soup dinner and a chapter member will her travels across the United States with her husband and three dogs. February's meeting is a cooking class by member Debbie Mar. Members will learn how to prepare Chinese dishes. They will also be updated on DKG legislative issues. |
Spring MeetingsIn March members will celebrate Dr. Seuss and Read Across America at Mary Lou Dieterich School and have a Potato Fest meeting for St. Patrick's Day.
In April Eta Mu members will enjoy a "Paint Night" at Pinot's Palette. They will also participate in Love Modesto. In May the 2020-2022 president will attend the California State Convention in Burlingame. The year will end with a "Garden Party" in June. |
For detailed information about each event go to the calendar of events and click on the month of the event.
ETA MU CELEBRATES 50 YEARS AS A CHAPTER
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Memories 1968 - 2018
A Glorious, Golden Afternoon!
On April 22, Eta Mu celebrated the 50thanniversary of its founding with a gala reception at the Gallo Center for the Arts. Representatives from legislative and governmental organizations, DKG California State officers, other DKG officers, and a former member of Eta Mu joined 15 Eta Mu members in the commemorative event. Dignitaries included State Senator Tom Berryhill and his District Director Bob Phelan, Eric Alvarez from Congressman Jeff Denham’s Office, Tony Madrigal, Vice Mayor of Modesto, Jason Conway, Executive Director of the Modesto Gospel Mission, Connie Robinson, Development Coordinator of the Modesto Gospel Mission, Janis Barr, DKG California State Past President, Susan Noyes, DKG California State First Vice President, Gloria Bracco, Area XVII Director, Kaye Osborn, President of Epsilon Nu, and Delores Arnett, Co-President of Alpha Epsilon. Also present were Gus Bica, Joe Gillum, Mark Heinzinger, Stan Little, Jeff Nonaca, and prospective members Denise Carlson-Nieto and Sarah Gillum, principal of Mary Lou Dieterich Elementary School.
Eta Mu Co-President Dr. Lynn Lysko served as MC of the program that included reflections by Lynn, a memoir by Adele Little, greetings by the state officers, recognition of Dr. Susan Neufeld as winner of a DKG California State professional service award, presentation of roses to the 50-year member and past presidents, and proclamations and certificates honoring the anniversary. A slide show of past chapter events prepared by Janice Freeman was shown during the reception. Co-President Pat Elston presented an inspirational on “Beatitudes for Teachers.”
Of 17 women educators initiated on April 20, 1968, only two remain as members: Nancy Lee and Adele Little. Nancy was unable to attend due to health issues. Pauline Streeter Hagen, also a charter member, was present at the reception.
Over the years, Eta Mu has counted 140 members including teachers from preschool level through university graduate schools, elementary and high school administrators, a school nurse, and a school librarian. On its 50-year anniversary, Eta Mu has 35 members comprising a strong and cohesive group ready to continue the chapter’s long history and tradition.
Eta Mu Co-President Dr. Lynn Lysko served as MC of the program that included reflections by Lynn, a memoir by Adele Little, greetings by the state officers, recognition of Dr. Susan Neufeld as winner of a DKG California State professional service award, presentation of roses to the 50-year member and past presidents, and proclamations and certificates honoring the anniversary. A slide show of past chapter events prepared by Janice Freeman was shown during the reception. Co-President Pat Elston presented an inspirational on “Beatitudes for Teachers.”
Of 17 women educators initiated on April 20, 1968, only two remain as members: Nancy Lee and Adele Little. Nancy was unable to attend due to health issues. Pauline Streeter Hagen, also a charter member, was present at the reception.
Over the years, Eta Mu has counted 140 members including teachers from preschool level through university graduate schools, elementary and high school administrators, a school nurse, and a school librarian. On its 50-year anniversary, Eta Mu has 35 members comprising a strong and cohesive group ready to continue the chapter’s long history and tradition.
CELEBRATING OUR SISTERS
On March 14, 2018, at the Potato Fest, Judy Trask, Adele Little and Kay Anderson were honored with Chapter Awards.
Judy received the Service to Chapter Award for her outstanding chapter newsletters. Judy makes sure the newsletters are sent monthly and on time. The Eta Mu newsletters are informative and creative.
Adele received the Public Service Award for her commitment to literacy. Adele is a dedicated volunteer in the Literacy Network of Stanislaus County.
Kay received the Professional Service Award. Kay enthusiastically supports future educators by supervising interns.
Eta Mu congratulates members Judy, Adele and Kay for their contributions to education.
At the 2018 DKG Convention, Pat Elston received the Area XVII Service to Area Award. Pat is the 2017-2019 Area XVII Programs and Conference Coordinator. As the Programs and Conference Coordinator, Pat was instrumental in organizing a wonderful, fun, informative and enriching 2017 Fall Conference. Her technology expertise shone brightly in the conference program she created, and Pat easily offered technology support to all throughout the day of the conference.
Pat never takes credit for her accomplishments, ideas and creativity. She believes it is the team that deserves the credit. She enjoys keeping herself current in education by substituting several days a month, supervising Brandman University Student Teachers and Interns, and administrating the English Language Proficiency Assessments for California to elementary students.
Judy received the Service to Chapter Award for her outstanding chapter newsletters. Judy makes sure the newsletters are sent monthly and on time. The Eta Mu newsletters are informative and creative.
Adele received the Public Service Award for her commitment to literacy. Adele is a dedicated volunteer in the Literacy Network of Stanislaus County.
Kay received the Professional Service Award. Kay enthusiastically supports future educators by supervising interns.
Eta Mu congratulates members Judy, Adele and Kay for their contributions to education.
At the 2018 DKG Convention, Pat Elston received the Area XVII Service to Area Award. Pat is the 2017-2019 Area XVII Programs and Conference Coordinator. As the Programs and Conference Coordinator, Pat was instrumental in organizing a wonderful, fun, informative and enriching 2017 Fall Conference. Her technology expertise shone brightly in the conference program she created, and Pat easily offered technology support to all throughout the day of the conference.
Pat never takes credit for her accomplishments, ideas and creativity. She believes it is the team that deserves the credit. She enjoys keeping herself current in education by substituting several days a month, supervising Brandman University Student Teachers and Interns, and administrating the English Language Proficiency Assessments for California to elementary students.
CONGRATULATIONS TO MEMBER SUSAN NEUFELD, CALIFORNIA DISTINGUISHED EDUCATOR
Eta Mu Chapter member Susan Neufeld will be presented the Distinguished Public Educator Award by Delta Kappa Gamma at the 2018 DKG California State Convention in Irvine,
Neufeld’s efforts as executive director of the ABC Project have led her to help 850 children receive free books every month, all the way from birth to kindergarten. A lifelong educator, Neufeld spent 18 years teaching grades K-8, and now teaches future instructors at Stanislaus State. The ABC Project is the local affiliate of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a nonprofit organization the country star began in her home county of Eastern Tennessee to increase literacy among youth. Susan has met Parton and the passion the star has for early literacy fuels Neufeld’s own fire to continue providing books to Turlock’s youth, whether it’s reading to children at the library or signing them up for the program at the Turlock Certified Farmers Market.
An article in the Turlock Journal highlights Susan's award. Read the article here.
Eta Mu Chapter of DKG is proud to have Susan Neufeld as a member.
Neufeld’s efforts as executive director of the ABC Project have led her to help 850 children receive free books every month, all the way from birth to kindergarten. A lifelong educator, Neufeld spent 18 years teaching grades K-8, and now teaches future instructors at Stanislaus State. The ABC Project is the local affiliate of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a nonprofit organization the country star began in her home county of Eastern Tennessee to increase literacy among youth. Susan has met Parton and the passion the star has for early literacy fuels Neufeld’s own fire to continue providing books to Turlock’s youth, whether it’s reading to children at the library or signing them up for the program at the Turlock Certified Farmers Market.
An article in the Turlock Journal highlights Susan's award. Read the article here.
Eta Mu Chapter of DKG is proud to have Susan Neufeld as a member.
JUNE GARDEN PARTY
Eta Mu wrapped up the 2017-2018 year with a Garden Party hosted by the Executive Committee at the home of Adele Little. Members celebrated a year of accomplishments along with guests Brittany Ross, recipient of our Grant-in-Aid for a student pursuing a career in teaching, and Elena Vasquez and Katrina Haskin, recipients of Area 17 Outstanding Student Teacher and Intern Awards.
Eta Mu is proud to be recognized as a 5 Star Honor Chapter for the sixth year in a row. The chapter has assembled Jared Boxes for local hospitals, donated to Modesto Gospel Mission, read to classes at Mary Lou Dieterich Elementary and donated books to their library, and members have donated time to local classrooms.
Most importantly, Eta Mu's officers for the 2018-2020 biennium were installed.
Eta Mu is proud to be recognized as a 5 Star Honor Chapter for the sixth year in a row. The chapter has assembled Jared Boxes for local hospitals, donated to Modesto Gospel Mission, read to classes at Mary Lou Dieterich Elementary and donated books to their library, and members have donated time to local classrooms.
Most importantly, Eta Mu's officers for the 2018-2020 biennium were installed.
New member Denise Carlson-Nieto was initiated into the chapter. Denise is a teacher in the Stanislaus Union School District. Denise accepted her certificate of membership from 2018-2020 Co-Presidents Janice Freeman and Lynn Lysko.
Jarod Boxes Donated to
Memorial Hospital Pediatric Department
Eta Mu members met December 7th at Judy Trask's house to assemble 23 Jared boxes and 10 bags for donation to local hospitals. The Jarod boxes were given to the pediatric staff at Memorial Hospital. The nurses welcomed the donation and said that the children enjoy receiving the items.
The mission of the Jared Box project is to "lift the spirits of children in the hospital." The project's website reminds us that these "boxes symbolize the importance of play and are filled with well wishes, hope, and love...A Jared Box is a plastic storage box filled with smallgifts, toys, games, and fun activities..Jared Boxes provide a special diversion for young patients in emergency rooms, patient rooms, surgical centers, and clinics as they receive chemotherapy and other medical treatments."
The mission of the Jared Box project is to "lift the spirits of children in the hospital." The project's website reminds us that these "boxes symbolize the importance of play and are filled with well wishes, hope, and love...A Jared Box is a plastic storage box filled with smallgifts, toys, games, and fun activities..Jared Boxes provide a special diversion for young patients in emergency rooms, patient rooms, surgical centers, and clinics as they receive chemotherapy and other medical treatments."
Reading Across Mary Lou Dieterich School
Mary Lou, Pat, Judy, Linda, Debbie and Kathleen enjoyed celebrating Dr. Suess Day at Mary Lou Dieterich School. They read in twenty-seven classrooms and donated twenty-one books. Trudi and Heather were unable to read, however, Trudi donated thirteen books and Heather donated two books. The students and staff enjoyed listening to a variety of wonderful stories.
The students enjoyed listening to Mary Lou Dieterich read some of her favorite books.
The students enjoyed listening to Mary Lou Dieterich read some of her favorite books.
For Minutes for Business Meetings go the the Meeting and Member News Page.