Thursday, February 28, 2013

Last August we began talking about implementing the CCSS through inquiry units of cross curriculum subjects of Social Studies and English Language Arts, sprinkling in technology integration.  That was such a huge jump for most of us, but the time line seemed broad.  In fact the time target date was so far out that many wrote PD goals to complete multiple units.  Well the target date arrives in just one week, hopefully with culminating performance assessments already complete.  Core Knowledge Fair is here with a vengeance.   Some are getting costumes this weekend - I think this adds the pop to the night.  We will serve dinner and I could use some volunteers to serve and/or hostess and clean tables.  I also need everyone to think about taking quality photos of the evening.  Let's capture the event from many vantage points.  The posters in the teachers lounge had some needs such as poster making.  I need substitutes and classified help to check if those needs have been fulfilled and then cross them off the list.    Are you excited yet???
When it is done, I would like you to reflect as a grade level team - I will provide some questions to guide you but main points will be the quality of the performance assessment, the quality of learning, the number of Core Standards taught, what you feel good about and what needs tweaking.

Next I will list key happenings for the next several weeks that need some of your attention.  Read them for information, knowing that for the next seven days you are feeling anxious and that next Friday morning life will appear a bit more manageable.  I give this information to you now as a sprinkling of information so that you can be prepared to deal with items as you can.  So no screaming or crying......... breathe deep and keep perspective.  Have I scared you yet?

• Tuesday after school we will have an all staff meeting just as a check in for Core Fair and a quick intro for our end of the year District Meeting presentation.  
• Next Wednesday morning @ 9 we will have Idaho Theater for Youth here for a performance.  Classes do not have to attend, but please let me know if you do not plan to be there. 
• Next Friday - March 8th is NEON day as an award for Hawks tickets.  Inform students to wear neon and we will have a small prize for those who glow!
• Friday morning, March 15th, Notus elementary teachers will be here to visit.  It is part of their professional development.  You do not have to create anything special.  They are here to observe and if time talk to you.  The second grade teacher will be in our second grade classrooms, third in third and so on. 
• We are currently negotiating with PEAK Training.  We have reserved the first week of June to offer some incredible training on classroom management and instruction (CCSS).  This is for proficient and advanced teachers, not really designed for teachers in need of improvement.  I will get credit available through NNU.  Talk to Cheryl, Kim, Susan, Scott or Kayla and then save the dates.
• We have volunteered and been selected to take part in the trial of the SBAC.  This is the new State test for CCSS.  We will do this the first week back after spring break.  There is nothing to prepare students with or for - this is an opportunity for them and us.  It will give us a feel and understanding of what we need to do during the next two years to prepare for the 2014 assessment.  Third through fifth grade will each take one test.  We will encourage great effort and no stress.  No pass or fail - just a good chance to look at what lies ahead.
• I have 13 College of Idaho Intro to Teaching students needing T/Th morning placements again this spring.  Let me know if you are willing to host a couple again.  Their tour will be early (March 12th) but they will start after break I believe. 
• I have only heard from a handful of teachers regarding carnival basket themes.  Remember, your class will earn the entire proceeds of your basket to spend on classroom enhancements in addition to any grants you write and receive. 
• Next Monday the District will interview principal candidates for the current openings.  Decisions will be made by the Board at the March meeting.  You will know very soon who will replace me.  :(    :)   AND contrary to rumor - teachers are not being arbitrarily reassigned to other buildings.  As in the past, if shifts HAVE to be made they will be done on a case by case basis to allow for continued employment for all that deserve or want teaching positions.