On Monday, we took a look some data that sparked a conversation about one of the Achievement Gap marks that we measure. I enjoyed the conversation that took place, and as we move forward we must learn more about the issue and use the research, talents, and innovation of the people in our building to help us be even more successful at meeting the needs of these students, along with all of our other kids too! Today's resource is from the Bush Institute and provides three areas that contribute to the widening achievement gap with this student population.
"How School Can Best Support Children Living in Poverty" - Ann Wicks
From our Equity book study, we have aimed to improve chronic absenteeism by building stronger connections with students...that is a key part, however, there is more work to be done with this issue for some of our students.
20-21 Middle School Structure/Construction Plans
As the weeks continue to move by quickly, so is planning for next school year. When you step back and take a look at the positive physical changes that will take place on this campus, it's exciting, but can seem overwhelming for some. As we plan for the structure and remodeling that will take place, I will try to communicate as best I can about the progress. At times, I'll be seeking input, other times I'll be sharing information. If at any time, you would like to sit down and discuss next school year, please just let me know, and we'll set up a time. There have been instances where we were planning something, and then something else came up and that plan changed....I anticipate this will continue to happen as we work to refine our plan heading into next school year. It's an exciting time, but it also can be a stressful time. It is my hope to be an effective communicator through this process, and I appreciate your patience and flexibility through this process.
Campus Construction
Like Dr. Shappell mentioned on Monday, construction will start on this campus starting March 20th. The High School, Middle School Playground area and the parking lot will be affected. We are also finding that we may need to get creative with some things during the last week of school. Some of these things can be stressful and will require us to do the best we can, even though solutions may not be ideal. The changes that will take place will be well worth it in the end, however, the process sometimes will require some flexibility. Thank you in advance for innovative ideas and an open mind for solving some of the challenges that we will face soon.
We will be having an Assembly on Thursday, March 12th at 2:00 pm that is aimed at educating our students and staff on how to navigate the campus when some of it becomes a construction zone. Our partners with Findorff will lead this assembly.
Forward Exam Information
Our annual Forward Exam testing window is quickly approaching and plans are underway to organize a testing session that will maximize student focus, effort, and achievement. We will plan a similar format as last year. We are still working with the Elementary to coordinate and finalize testing dates. Students will not be using their assigned chromebooks for testing, as we will use newer devices for testing.
20-21 Budget
As a reminder, budgets are due to me by February 20th. Please coordinate with your department to meet this deadline. As a reminder, you should submit requisition sheets on paper with one department summary sheet. Please let me know if you have any questions about this process as I am happy to (and prefer to) assist prior to reviewing the requests.
Pig Races
The Pig Races are right around the corner and the names that have come in are quite impressive. We will be having a competition for the best name, best dressed, and of course, the fastest pig. I'll be working to get some clothing materials on campus for groups to use. Check out the entries for pig names so far here: NAMES.
Hoops 4 Heart
A group of our fine Leadership Students are deep into the work of planning for our annual Hoops 4 Heart Staff vs. Students Basketball game. Mark your calendars now for the event, Thursday, March 19th.
WANTED: SUMMER SCHOOL TEACHER (from Mr. Hausser)
We have had a great response from our staff for teaching during our 3- week summer session in June which is great. However, we are still looking for one more summer reading teacher for down at the library. The program runs for 6 weeks starting in July and ending in August. The pay rate is $26 an hour for about 5 hours a day Monday- Thursday. The teacher would be working with an individual or small group on reading skills. Ms. Dayton is doing it again this summer and can share her experiences with it. Otherwise please see Anna or me for more details. The hours are 9:30- 2:30 so not bad.
January 31st - End of Quarter 2 Assembly - Various Events and Carelli Cup Competition
February 19th - MS Assembly - Pig Races - More information to come about this process.
March 12th - Findorff/Construction Assembly - We'll be preparing students for how to navigate our campus with so much construction going on.
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