Information from Administrator's Meeting

Please make sure your thermostats are programmed properly so as to conserve as much energy as possible.  Note - the modulars take four times the cost to heat and cool as a building classroom.  So for one modular room heating cost we can heat four building classrooms.  This math is a quick way to see the importance of NOT heating rooms during unoccupied times.

Early retirement options are currently available for teachers who meet certain criteria (age 55+ and minimum consecutive years of service).  Early Retirement has not been available for a couple of years and may not be in the future (depending on legislature).  So if you have been or might be interested, you might look at the benefits and drawbacks for your particular situation.  You may contact Mike Friend for general information or set an appointment with PERSI to look at your specific data.  The trigger date is April 1st.  You must have your declaration into the State by this time.  I also understand that getting an appointment with PERSI can be difficult so investigate early even if you MIGHT be interested.

Heads up, your Social Security tax (Federal) will increase THIS MONTH.  It will take an additional 2% from your gross pay.  This is due to the 'fiscal cliff' issues you have heard about.  There was a two year reprieve in place that expired January 1, 2013.  Be ready for this.  It is calculated for us.  It WILL affect your paycheck and we have no control over this.  :(





Building safety inspection is scheduled for next week - January 16th and 17th.  You must make sure the following items are addressed before next week.  Ask if you have questions.

• No daisy chaining.  If you don't know what this is, ask.  Most should be able to define and identify this 
• No storage on top shelves of book rooms or on top of coat closet in classrooms.  
• No extension cords used on a permanent basis. This includes the one that runs the microwave for students in the lunchroom.  The microwave needs to be moved so that it will operate without the extension cord.
• Items hanging from the ceiling should not drop lower than the top of the door.
• The egress (entry way to classrooms) needs to be clear. 
• Do not block the heater closets with books, desks or other items.  Paper decorations should also be removed from these doors. 
• Items should not be stored in the hater closets. 
• NO DOOR STOPS.  We can not prop doors open due to fire code.  You must remove, hide and file your doorstop by Tuesday afternoon.  The custodians will be asked to pick up any remaining stops.  Do not put these back out until notified by ME.
• Turn off Sentsy pots and the like for these days.  Some buildings have been written up, others have not.  
• Bookshelves over 4' tall need to be secured to the wall.  Please let me know if you have shelving that has not been anchored.

From technology:

• We will now be paying BOE for our color copies.  Costs will increase significantly based on this change.  You should not use the color copier without Darcy's or my approval,  It should only be used on a limited, educational basis.  Think of it as if you were being asked to pay for it personally - would you?  
• I will send you your personal printer usage.  What you print in your classroom costs four times what it is to the copier.  This expense comes out of the school supply budget (which is empty :)