CSKYWLA NEW STAFF NEWSLETTER
Spring 2024
Welcome Spring!
It is hard to believe that we are already to the midway point of the Spring Semester.
As we continue to move full STEAM ahead this academic year, please take note the following:
1. If you need help with anything, this could be classroom design/decoration, lesson planning, differentiation of instruction, incorporating technology, PBLs or even creating a project to post on Donors Choose, please let us know. We have many staff members that would love to help out.
2. You should have met with your volunteer mentor teacher by now. If you have not been able to do so, please let us know so that we can make sure that you can connect/can continue to connect with one another this semester.
3. Testing season is upon us. As you begin preparations, remember to take a moment to just BREATHE. Stepping outside to get a breath of fresh air and a little sunshine, drinking a cup of tea, listening to your favorite playlist, eating your favorite snack or having a conversation with colleagues can help to boost your mood and relieve stress.
3. We will meet as a group this semester. Your input is invaluable to us! If there are any particular topics you're interested in that could enhance our instruction, aid in our planning, or contribute to our collective well-being, please don't hesitate to share. We're all ears and eager to tailor our approach to best fit your needs and interests. Please be sure to respond to the email invite when you receive it.
Thank you!
Spring Semester 2024- Bell Schedule
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qvPiK3Dv3a-MykzV-sQviUYv9E2ayeq1H0sB8LpG1Yg/edit?usp=sharing
Here is a copy of the bell schedule for Spring Semester 2024.
Donors Choose Project Funding Opportunities
https://www.donorschoose.org/teachers
For those of you that may be looking for funding opportunities for your next project, use the link above which will take you to the "Funding Opportunities and Match Offers" page for Donors Choose. We have many staff members (including several of our mentor teachers) that have received funding through Donors Choose. Please let us know if you need help with creating a project.
Nearpod for Data Driven Instruction
https://nearpod.com/blog/tips-for-data-driven-teaching/
Today, there are a plethora of digital tools available for educators to use for data driven instruction. “Nearpod” is one of the tools that we have available to us for use in “mybackpack”. The platform is simple to navigate and has many features available that assist with the creation of interactive lessons. Check out the linked blog post to see tips for using data driven instruction incorporating “Nearpod”. Let us know if you found the information useful and if you were able to create and use a “Nearpod” with your classes.
Professional Development Opportunities at Griffin RESA
Looking for professional development opportunities? Griffin RESA, south of the city of Atlanta, has many course offerings available each month (including virtual sessions). The World Language Department at CSK was given the opportunity to attend a full day of training specifically for WL teachers during the Fall Semester. We enjoyed the presentations and interacting with our colleagues from schools in their region. If you don't mind traveling a few extra miles down 75 South to participate in meaningful PD, consider checking out Griffin RESA.