Saturday, April 25, 2020

The Middle Update 4/25/20

Resources of the Week
The first resource this week is a compilation of resources and protocols for our district's deployment of our Remote Learning Plan.  Thanks to Katie and Anna for organizing this information with helpful links and explanations.

SDOP Remote Learning Resources

The second resource shines a light on some of the lessons the educational world is learning during the remote learning experience.  The article shares perspectives from educators across the country that mirror many of the conversations that have taken place among out staff.  If we look at this total experience as an opportunity to learn how we can take the lessons learned and apply them to the normal school routines to set up conditions for success for all students.

"Why Are Some Kids Thriving During Remote Learning" - Nora Fleming

Remote Learning Performance Feedback
Having consistent collaboration about this experience for us and our students has allowed us to make adjustments and modifications to enhance the experience.  Through our conversations, it appears that many of our students are being successful, some have been inconsistent, and for others it has been very challenging.  We have done a nice job of providing the opportunity for support for those that need it, and it has paid off in many cases.

The Puma Pride progress scores that we started to share should help with giving everyone a clear idea of how each student is performing in their classes.  These scores should be posted at least weekly in the "Follows Classroom Expectations" standard.

Another important note to consider...as the virus remains present, we will most likely have students who have family members that get sick with the virus.  Mr. Johnson shared one example about one of his students and offered the following advice after talking with Izzy S's mother:
"She says Izzy's dad went to the ER last night, has been sick for two weeks. He's getting tested for Covid. I'm sure more students will be experiencing this stress in the next few weeks. It got me thinking, Emails to parents should probably use empathy now more than ever as the virus creeps into our community."

Any communication we have with students and parents must have a tone of empathy with the main message of offering support for students and their families.


Packing...Renovation
I wanted to extend a sincere thank you to all of you for making the time to come in and pack up your rooms, preparing for the move.  A silver lining to this whole situation is being able to have Findorff get into our building earlier to get a head start on the renovations that will take place.  A couple of important reminders about this process below:
-When packing rooms, all items should be in boxes or containers that can be easily moved and labeled.  No items should be moved to existing elementary classrooms.  We need to give the elementary teachers time and space to pack up their own classrooms prior to their move.
-We must follow the "Safer at Home" orders while in the school building, maintaining social distancing and not gathering as a group.
-Please email me when you have been in your room and any item that you may need till late August is out and accessible.

So far, we are on pace to be in good shape, however, there is a lot of work and coordination to be done yet, and I appreciate each of you stepping up to do your part.

Staffing Updates
We are nearing the completion of adding the final pieces of our 5th grade team.  I want to be the first to welcome Allison Larson and Shelby Wheeler to our team.  After a rigorous interview process, and a very talented candidate pool, both Allison and Shelby stood out.  We are very excited to have them join our team!  We are also in agreement with a new school Social Worker, who will service the whole district.

Appreciation
I just want to extend my sincere appreciation to all of you.  During this unique time period, our whole district has a team that has risen to the challenge and done a great job of making the most out of the educational experience for our kids.  Thank you for what you do!

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The Middle Update 4/25/20

Resources of the Week
The first resource this week is a compilation of resources and protocols for our district's deployment of our Remote Learning Plan.  Thanks to Katie and Anna for organizing this information with helpful links and explanations.

SDOP Remote Learning Resources

The second resource shines a light on some of the lessons the educational world is learning during the remote learning experience.  The article shares perspectives from educators across the country that mirror many of the conversations that have taken place among out staff.  If we look at this total experience as an opportunity to learn how we can take the lessons learned and apply them to the normal school routines to set up conditions for success for all students.

"Why Are Some Kids Thriving During Remote Learning" - Nora Fleming

Remote Learning Performance Feedback
Having consistent collaboration about this experience for us and our students has allowed us to make adjustments and modifications to enhance the experience.  Through our conversations, it appears that many of our students are being successful, some have been inconsistent, and for others it has been very challenging.  We have done a nice job of providing the opportunity for support for those that need it, and it has paid off in many cases.

The Puma Pride progress scores that we started to share should help with giving everyone a clear idea of how each student is performing in their classes.  These scores should be posted at least weekly in the "Follows Classroom Expectations" standard.

Another important note to consider...as the virus remains present, we will most likely have students who have family members that get sick with the virus.  Mr. Johnson shared one example about one of his students and offered the following advice after talking with Izzy S's mother:
"She says Izzy's dad went to the ER last night, has been sick for two weeks. He's getting tested for Covid. I'm sure more students will be experiencing this stress in the next few weeks. It got me thinking, Emails to parents should probably use empathy now more than ever as the virus creeps into our community."

Any communication we have with students and parents must have a tone of empathy with the main message of offering support for students and their families.


Packing...Renovation
I wanted to extend a sincere thank you to all of you for making the time to come in and pack up your rooms, preparing for the move.  A silver lining to this whole situation is being able to have Findorff get into our building earlier to get a head start on the renovations that will take place.  A couple of important reminders about this process below:
-When packing rooms, all items should be in boxes or containers that can be easily moved and labeled.  No items should be moved to existing elementary classrooms.  We need to give the elementary teachers time and space to pack up their own classrooms prior to their move.
-We must follow the "Safer at Home" orders while in the school building, maintaining social distancing and not gathering as a group.
-Please email me when you have been in your room and any item that you may need till late August is out and accessible.

So far, we are on pace to be in good shape, however, there is a lot of work and coordination to be done yet, and I appreciate each of you stepping up to do your part.

Staffing Updates
We are nearing the completion of adding the final pieces of our 5th grade team.  I want to be the first to welcome Allison Larson and Shelby Wheeler to our team.  After a rigorous interview process, and a very talented candidate pool, both Allison and Shelby stood out.  We are very excited to have them join our team!  We are also in agreement with a new school Social Worker, who will service the whole district.

Appreciation
I just want to extend my sincere appreciation to all of you.  During this unique time period, our whole district has a team that has risen to the challenge and done a great job of making the most out of the educational experience for our kids.  Thank you for what you do!