Friday Focus
5.1.15
Calendar
Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!
Monday, May 4th
- Unified Basketball Game #1/Harlem Wizards @SHS, 4:00 PM
Tuesday, May 5th
- Admin Cabinet Meeting, SHS LGI, 9:45 AM
- Faculty Meeting Cancelled - Next meeting on June 2nd
Wednesday, May 6th
- Community Coalition Meeting, SHS LGI, 3:00 PM
- BOE Budget Hearing/Meet the Candidates, SHS LGI, 6:30 PM
Friday, May 8th
- SchoolTool 4th Quarter Progress Report Unlock Date
- Final Teen Town, OWWMS, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Middle Grades Forum/Schools to Watch Conference
Because this is my first year as principal, I'd like to stay behind here at school and make sure the year wraps up smoothly. Please let me know ASAP via email or in person if you are willing to represent OWWMS as we are re-designated for a third time. From what I hear, it's a great professional learning opportunity, as well.
Our First XFactor Event was a hit!
"Just a simple hello can make a person's day!"
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"I did a little activity today to address the other part of my teaching job, the part where we try to encourage our kids to be patient, considerate, and tolerant of others. Last Friday we had a solemn discussion about Jacobe. I just let the kids talk and share. The conversation turned to how people might feel lonely, and we came up with a plan to give a sincere "hello" to people over the weekend and here in school.
Today (this is a in a SS class) I passed out an article and had the students close read it, state the central idea, and relate it to our weekend activity. They all got it - just a simple hello can make a person's day! That simple connection can turn someone's day around! I then had them share their experiences and write them on an index card. We'll keep it up all week, and who knows, maybe they'll continue on their own. We talked about the different responses and acknowledged that people react differently because everyone is different and may be going through something that we don't know about. Whatever their response, it "doesn't cost us anything" to say hello.
Here are a few of their comments. I am thrilled at their willingness to give it a try:
"While I was walking down the hall, I greeted others who were passing by. They would turn, surprised, and then greet me in return. I wondered why their responses were so surprised."
"I was walking down the hall and said hello to a girl who looked a little older than me. She said hi back in an awkward voice. I think I scared her a little bit."
"My sisters were at their friend's house and her dad was outside watering the garden. I said hi and it lead to a whole conversation."
"I was at the Flames hockey game and I walked by an older man and said "hello" and he said "hello" back and also smiled at me."
- Tim