Warrior Beat
Student Focused-World Class
Word for the Warrior...
Over the holiday break, I read an article that was posted by an educator. It was titled "Don't Try to Make Me a Better Teacher". I thought it was one of those titles that was used to catch your attention, but didn't really mean what it said. I was wrong. Within the first paragraph, the author explained why she stood up in a district meeting and announced that she had no interest in improving her teaching. I kept reading because the perspective of a teacher is very important to me. Her perspective included many thoughts, here are a few:
· In the shower in the morning I tweak my lesson plans for the day. I wake up in the middle of far too many nights with school on my mind and on my drive home I still wonder and reflect about what went well and what didn’t. But what I don’t want to do is to be told I have to read books about teaching techniques, be forced to “reflect” on my teaching for my evaluation or generally keep being told that I need to improve my teaching. Frankly I am good enough.
· No one expects their accountant, their doctor, their lawyer, their favorite athlete or even their carpenter to routinely reform their profession, but for teachers reform is the norm.
· And while we embrace the idealism and enthusiasm of new teachers, unfortunately idealism and enthusiasm are the first casualties of working in a system where your profession isn’t respected and you are blamed for the failures of that system.
I really kept trying to think through her perspective. I even reread to make sure that I forced myself to read between the lines and find several valid points, and there were a few. However, I felt overwhelmed and saddened by the view of this author. I knew then I wanted to tell you about it.
I do want my doctor, lawyer, or accountant to reform-not throw the baby out with the bath water- but to seek innovative new ways to meet the changing needs of our society. Many of you know that my father died of brain cancer several years ago. Just after he first exhibited signs of concern, we learned that he had glioblastoma and he was told by many, many doctors that the end had come. He was told that he had a terminal disease. He was told that because his growing tumor was so close to a vital artery, that surgery was impossible. He was encouraged to go home and enjoy the last weeks of his life and to trust that the physicians would work to make him comfortable. Refusing to accept that advice, he asked if there was any doctor in the country who might have different advice. As a last resort, he was advised to go to Wake Forest, a brain cancer center of excellence. Upon meeting with the oncologists there, our family experienced a totally different series of instructions. We learned that based on their expertise and learning, that while his tumor was one that even in recent years they would not have touched, that based on advances in medical research and techniques, his tumor WAS operable. In fact, they suggested that if we opted for their treatment plan, my dad may even have several quality years left to live. In addition, the doctor who would ultimately become his surgeon, passionately and emotionally shared with us that he woke up every morning believing that “this might be the day when they found a cure for glioblastoma.” This was not just a wish for him. It was his life’s work…his calling. This wasn’t a doctor who graduated from medical school believing that he had “arrived.” This was not a doctor who entered his occupation expecting people just leave him alone and let him do his job in isolation. He was a part of a GROUP of physicians that collaboratively woke up every morning to learn. This center of excellence based their work on striving toward a vision that many would see as impossible or view as a waste of time…odds too great to beat.
I do think we are living in a time when parents expect more of schools than ever before. Accountability requires more of teachers than ever before. People speak their unsolicited opinions more. This can leave educators feeling as if there is less respect for our profession. We are public educators. We serve all-all classes, education levels, income levels, and cognitive levels in an increasingly diverse landscape. The nature of this occupation is rooted in a moral imperative. By that, certainly it is rooted in hope. I have heard you say on numerous occasions that children are changing and are harder than they used to be. This tells me that we have to be more creative and responsive than ever before. I can speak for myself when I say that I have been so challenged by the changing needs of students, I have had to consider things that previously wouldn't match my personal philosophy. We aren't reforming because we are not good teachers, or because we have lost our enthusiasm or hope, to me it is quite the opposite. We reform because we have hope and enthusiasm. We reflect on our evaluations-not for ourselves, but for the students. Children, standards, expectations, and competition in the world all change and require us to change alongside them. If I ever utter the words "Frankly, I'm good enough", I have lost sight of kids-and the society I hope for in the future. Send me home. For now, I will continue to work to improve life for kids by improving teachers, practices and policies-you...and our kids...deserve it.
Week of the Warrior
MONDAY: February 5th
JSMS LEADERSHIP TEAM-3:00-4:00-JSMS Library-Agenda-Share -Out of TRENDS from the IPG Walk-Through Norming Day-This is a Leadership Team meeting, but all are invited to attend.
Softball Try-outs - 3-5pm - Must have a current sports physical on file
Sevier on Stage Forensics will meet in Mr. Graybeal’s classroom on Monday after school until 4:00.
High School Planning in 8th grade Science classes
8th grade students going on the DC Trip need to bring their 3rd and final payment of $200 to Mr. Trent or Mr. Moore.
TUESDAY: February 6th
- 8th grade parent meeting 5:30 in DB’s Cafeteria-High School Planning
Science Olympiad Practice 3-5
Student Council meeting Tuesday 3:00-3:30 in Mrs. Wagner’s room. Athletes, actors, and writers dress out from 2:45-3:00, attend meeting until 3:15, and then join team.
8th grade students going on the DC Trip need to bring their 3rd and final payment of $200 to Mr. Trent or Mr. Moore.
WEDNESDAY: February 7th
Girls Indoor Soccer Game at Sevier @ 3:15 be at Sevier by 3:00 dressed and ready
Softball Try-outs - 3-5pm - Must have a current sports physical on file
There will be a JRROTC meeting each Wednesday after school. The meetings are 3:00-4:00. Please see Ms. Moore in room 106 if interested.
There will be a Sequoyah Scribe staff meeting from 2:45 to 3:30 pm in room 340. All staff members are required to attend. The editorial staff and newscast staff will meet until 5:15 pm.
High School Planning in 8th grade Science classes
8th grade students going on the DC Trip need to bring their 3rd and final payment of $200 to Mr. Trent or Mr. Moore.
THURSDAY: February 8th
Science Olympiad Practice 3-5
Softball Try-outs - 3-5pm - Must have a current sports physical on file
Natural Helpers meeting 2:50-4:30pm
Sevier on Stage Forensics will meet in Mr. Graybeal’s classroom on Thursday after school until 4:00.
Progress Reports
School wide introduction to Naviance Family Connection during Tribe Time - more info to come
8th grade students going on the DC Trip need to bring their 3rd and final payment of $200 to Mr. Trent or Mr. Moore.
FRIDAY: February 9th
- NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS-PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCE DAY
Junior Clinic Honor Band at RNR
Save the Date:
Cheerleading info meeting February 16th at 3 in Coach Hayes Room 225
Junior Clinic Honor Band at RNR – Feb. 10th
JSMS JAM...
IPG Walk-Throughs
There will be two math teams and two ELA teams. Therefore, each math teacher will have two short fifteen minute observations and ELA teachers will have two short fifteen minute observations.
Below you find the time frame designated to your grade level for the observations:
6th Grade 10:15 -11:10
7th Grade 7:55 - 8:50
8th Grade 9:00 - 9:55
As a reminder, the IPG guides focus on trends throughout the classroom, not individual scores. Therefore, you will not receive specific individual feedback. There will be, however, information shared on building level trends identified for each content (ELA and math).
Below are the major indicators for each content:
ELA
- Standard Alignment
- Text Choice/Complexity/Lesson Centered Around Text
- Questions and Tasks Associated with Text and Analytical Thinking
- Students' Engagement/Evidence and Opportunity to Problem Solve Through
Student Learning
Math
- Standard Alignment
- Level of Rigor as Demanded by the Standard (Procedural, Conceptual,
Application)
- Opportunities for All Students to Engage in Mathematics for the Grade Level
- Evidence of Mathematical Practices Throughout the Lesson
This will really be an opportunity for Sevier to demonstrate the quality instruction that goes on every day!
Please make sure that ALL students in every class understand that we will have visitors in our building all day and that they are on their best behavior.
Thank you!
Attention! Attention! PLEASE SEND INFORMATION TO COUNSELING...
Attention! Attention!
Please complete the following ASAP:
Grade setup has to be completed by March 16. Please email LeAnn when this process has been completed.
Please share your calendar with LeAnn so she can schedule Parent Teacher Conferences. Some of you have, but most have not.
Data Conferencing
JSMS Data Conferences:
6th Grade Math-2/8Unit Test
6th Grade LA Unit Assessment 3/1
6th Grade SS-Unit Test 2/8
6th Grade Math 2/8 Unit Test
6th Grade Science 2/8 Unit Test
7th Grade SS-2/1 Unit Test
7th Grade LA-2/8 and then 2/15
7th Gd Science-2/8 Unit Test
7th Grade Math----
8th Gd Math 2/1 Unit Test-Next-Module 4
8th Grade SS-2/8 Unit Test
8th Grade LA-2/8-Writing
8th Grade Science-2/22 Unit Test
Amanda has/or will sent out a data conferencing protocol template to Math and Science teachers.
For ELA and SS, if you do not already have one of your own that you use, please use the template shared on the Google Drive earlier this week.
Calling all SOCIAL STUDIES teachers! WOW AWARDS!
Please remember to submit names for the WOW awards each week. Sometimes, unless we are intentional, we focus more on those students who are NOT making the right choices more than the ones who DO. Recognizing those who do the right thing MATTERS. It matters to those students and it creates a culture we we learn to see the positive and so do students.
This week is the week SOCIAL STUDIES teachers will be submitting WOW names. Begin thinking about the two students you would like to nominate and look for the email from Mr. Roebke with the attachment to fill out.
JSMS Action Teams
As we have worked in developing the processes at JSMS, we have developed a shared leadership model that depends upon the JSMS Leadership Team as the guiding coalition of the school. Using school data, staff surveys, parents surveys and SWOT analysis, the team has determined the work of our school. As we have continued to develop the work of our school, our Action Teams have grown and increased to align to encompass a variety of areas. Previously, we have invited all to participate in action teams as desired. While I would still like to ensure that anyone can attend any action team at any time, to ensure that all voices are heard, I would like to ask that each one of you sign up for at least one Action Team. Later this week, we will invite everyone to sign up via a Google form. Some of you have been consistent members of teams and we will go ahead and sign up those of you who have consistently participated on specific teams. You will notice that there are just a few new teams listed below. Again, you can certainly be on more than one action team, but to ensure that we have representation, we ask that everyone sign up for at least one. These meetings count toward your six additional hours of PD.
Scheduling/Tribe Time/Clubs
Staff Communication
New Teacher Mentoring
Transforming Teaching and Learning: Grading
Culture Club
Data Team
Technology
Supervision
Athletics
Family Engagement
Fire Marshal
THANK YOU!
Science Standards Resources Available - To support educators in the transition to the new Tennessee Academic Standards for Science in fall 2018, TDOE has released two new documents: the TN Science Standards Reference and the TN Science Standards Implementation Guide. The TN Science Standards Reference is an exploration of all three dimensions of science instruction: science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas. This document contains progressions of learning for each discipline, connections to the Framework for K-12 Science Education, and content support for each standard in grades K-8, biology, chemistry, and physics. The TN Science Standards Reference adds to the initial support offered by the TN Science Standards Implementation Guide, which includes activities, readings, and questions designed to provide a deeper understanding of three-dimensional science instruction for participants in a series of professional learning sessions.
Guidance Regarding What Can/Cannot Be Posted During Mandated Testing - The state recently released additional guidance of resource and support items that are no longer allowed to be visible in the classroom or school during the testing sessions. The state has indicated these are things that a student should be able to recall independently. Following is a specific list provided from the state. It is not “all inclusive”, but includes examples that are prohibited. Michael Hubbard provided the test coordinators with this list and have asked them to share this now and throughout the year to ensure teachers are aware prior to testing. Please email or call Michael Hubbard with any questions, mhubbard@k12k.com or 378-2125.
Information Shared With Parents This Week..
Girls' Basketball Uniforms
FINAL DC PAYMENT DUE
High School Planning Update
Parents of current 8th graders,
We are entering an exciting time with your students. On January 30 & 31, counselors will begin meeting with 8th grade students to discuss their transition to being a Dobyns-Bennett High School student. In this first class, we will introduce students to the high school planning process and common terminology for high school students. In the following weeks, we will work with students to design a plan for their 4 years of high school, based on graduation requirements, post-graduation plans, and career interests. Our planning process will conclude with each student having an individual registration appointment with a counselor during the week of March 12. Parents are encouraged to attend these individual appointments.
We recognize that this can be an anxious time for families as students make this transition. Therefore, we would like to invite you to a Family Informational Night on February 6 at 5:30pm at DB.During this meeting, middle and high school counselors will discuss helpful information and what to expect as we work through this transition with your student. We will cover important informational resources and a timeline of events and activities.
We will also use this night to introduce parents to Naviance, a new online platform that will be used throughout high school. So, even if you are experienced with this transition process, we encourage you to come learn about Naviance.
Please plan to join us for this important information meeting.
As we proceed, here are some additional tips to help your student through this process, as well as important dates to know:
What can parents do
Talk to your student about academic goals, career interests, and possible related courses
Review progress with your student on their 4/6 year plan using Naviance
Become familiar with information in Google classroom as it is posted, including the DB Course Catalog, graduation requirements, and information slides
Use this link to explore our cheat sheet for a glossary of terms and helpful links - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xERNGTLFxfxeTsGmfAnbNCi5I-hSblQsvHhtAIugmUc/edit?usp=sharing
Attend the DB registration meeting
Dates to Know
January 30-February 21 - Weekly High School Planning meetings in classrooms
February 6 (5:30pm) - Family Informational Meeting at DB - Meet in DB Cafeteria
March 8 - Field Trip - Eastman Career Expo & DB Excel Tour
March 9 - Field Trip - DB Tour and Career & Technical Education (CTE) Tour
Please avoid late arrivals and early pickups on field trip days
March 12-15 - Individual DB Registration appointments (Appointment times will be mailed by 2/19)
We look forward to working with your family as we guide students through this process.
Thank you,
JSMS Counseling
Parent Information Night for Rising 9th Grade Students Dobyns-Bennett Cafeteria February 6, 5:30 pm
Parent Information Night for Rising 9th Grade Students
Dobyns-Bennett Cafeteria
February 6, 5:30 pm
There will be an opening session in the DB Cafeteria. From there, parents and students will have an opportunity to move through up to 5 rotations to hear more information and ask questions. Following the rotations, there will be a makeup session in the cafeteria for any parents who were not able to make the opening session.
Rotations available will be:
General Math Track
Advanced Math Track
World Language
DB Excel
Social Studies - AP Human Geog.
English CP
English Pre-AP
Social Studies - W. History
Science Adv. Track
Science General Track
Counselors - General Questions
CTE
College Access and Success Night will also be occurring on this night. It is open to all DB parents and rising 9th grade parents. Information in these sessions will be focused on AP courses. These will meet in the English Pod area of DB.
Please join us for this night of information.
Thank you,
JSMS Counseling
JSMS Family University
Google Classroom and Intro to Canvas for Families
JSMS Family University
Based on the needs assessment of JSMS families, Sevier has designed family engagement and learning opportunities designed to meet your needs! Each month, Sevier staff will provide learning opportunities for families to best support students and families throughout the middle school years. We invite you to attend the following:
Google Classroom and Intro to Canvas for Families
Monday, February 12th
12:00pm -1:00pm
Repeat session on Thursday, February 15th
5:00pm-6:00pm
Location: Sevier Middle School
Presenters: Annette True, Luke Holt, and Laurie Norris
This class will teach families how they can be engaged in their child’s education using Canvas and Google Classroom. Lunch and dinner will be provided. Transportation is also available for families. Please RSVP if you will be attending or would like transportation to Debbie Moore at 378-2406 or dmoore@k12k.com .
Grandparents 24/7
JSMS Family University
Grandparents 24/7
All families are welcome and encouraged to join us for the Sevier Family University on February 12th- 12:00pm-1:00pm. This university is just for our families. Learn how to help your child using Canvas and Google Classroom. Location: Sevier Middle School (room based on attendance) Please RSVP to Debbie Moore at 378-2406.
An additional session will be held for families unable to attend the afternoon event. This session will be in the evening on February 15th- 5:00pm-6:00pm
Stay tuned for our Sevier Family University class addressing teenage development and behaviors. Coming in March.
Raising a Teen
JSMS Family University
Sevier Family University, Raising a Teen
Thursday, March 8th
5:30-6:30
Raising a teen is a unique and priceless experience. We invite you to attend a Sevier Family University session to learn, discuss, and ask questions about the development of your teen. Marsha Litton-Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor will be the presenter and facilitator of this session.
TIPS TO AVOID THE FLU..
Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs
The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like covering
your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu. There also are flu antiviral drugsthat can be used to treat and prevent flu.
1. Avoid close contact.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
2. Stay home when you are sick.
If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. This will help prevent spreading your illness to others.
3. Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
4. Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
6. Practice other good health habits.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your
stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.JSMS Yearbooks
If you would like to receive a JSMS 2017 Yearbook
please turn your order form and money in to your
homeroom teacher
WARRIOR WHOOP!
SCIENCE WARRIORS!
JSMS BAND FATZ FUNDRAISER
Congratulations to the 2018 JSMS Baseball Team!!
We are looking forward to completing a community service project. If you are aware of, or are in need of any project where our team can be of service, please let us know.
Bradley Anderson
Sam Drakos
Jacob Isaacs
Dakota Benton
Braylon Banks
Turner Stout
Christopher Harris
Evan Farley
Tristen Jobe
Robbie Irvin
Donovan Tracy
Connor Collins
Peyton Dotson
Brayden Yates
Caleb Lowe
Bowen Bacon
Keante Dukes
Blake Dunford
Carson Simpson