Husky Hotline
Sycamore Elementary School Has the IT Factor!
In This Issue
Birthdays
Calendar
Class Pick Up From the Cafeteria
School Affairs
Curriculum and Instructional Support
Gwinnett Effectiveness Initiative
Items Needed
Hook'em and Hold'em Casino Night
Bookkeeper Notes
Kudos
Read Across America Day
Supporting a Middle School Culture Event
Media News
Online Communique
STEMCampATL - Spring 2016
Career Advancement Scholarships
Crystal's Corner
Aesop Reminders
When you submit a request in Aesop:
- Please remember to post In/Service-Staff Development when requesting for a staff development day off. Assure that you have gotten clearance to attend from Crystal first so that payment for subs can come from the proper line item.
- Click “save” and the Aesop system will locate a sub for you.
- Click “save and assign” when you have already spoken to the sub and you know for certain that he/she will be in your class.
Please remember to update the time in Aesop. A full day is 7:45-3:45, half day is either 7:45-11:45 or 11:45-3:45.
Birthdays
Leila Yousuf February 5
Ashley Miller February 9
Ryan DuPraw February 16
Melanie Brewer February 20
Melanie Mayer February 25
Beth Chiasson February 28
Julie Kuykendall February 28
Class Pick Up From the Cafeteria
Grade level teachers are asked to please pick up classes from the cafeteria tables on time. The custodial staff needs the allotted time between classes to get the tables clean. Thank you for your help with this matter. Dr. Kim Glass
School Affairs
School Reminders:
1. Please lock up all devices at night and lock your classroom doors when leaving for specials, lunch and recess. Students need to bring everything with them and not come to the classrooms unattended as much as possible. 2 barriers are suggested, however 1 barrier will suffice.
2. Please have students assist with putting chairs on desks when leaving each day.With us eating breakfast and snacks in the classrooms, it causes for more attention to vacuuming. Please help us get your rooms as clean as possible.
Curriculum and Instructional Support
Community and Media Relations
The latest posts to the online Communiqué include features on a 'Silver Lining' for entrepreneurial students, a group of student ambassadors for voter registration, opportunities to nominate outstanding educators for recognition, plus calendar updates and Bulletin Board items on bond rating news, scholarship deadlines, registration reminders for GCPS charter schools, and the latest episode of In5ive. Coming up, watch for news on Wonder(ful) robotics, a salute to honored counselors, superheroes in the media center, educators in the workplace, expanded language options, and more.
Story ideas? Great photos? Feedback? Let us know at communique@gwinnett.k12.ga.us. Please share photos and information about the special events your school has planned for Black History Month and Career and Technical Education Month during February as well as National Counseling Week (Feb. 8-12).
Accountability and Assessment
Schoolnet Reminders for Interim Assessments
As you prepare for interim assessments with Schoolnet, below are a few reminders for each option of administration:
Online - Students login, using a passcode, via our Student Portal.
Schoolnet answer documents
1.An admin user creates answer documents from within Schoolnet.
2.Please remember to use the recommended Adobe print settings.
3.An admin user scans the completed documents using ScanIt. GradeCam answer documents
1.Teachers create and scan answer documents (different than Schoolnet documents).
2.Teachers need to choose the correct section before scoring.
3.It is recommended that teachers use Internet Explorer when using GradeCam.
Please contact the GCPS Testing Team with any questions
SPG Open Previews
Open previews for 2016 - 2017 SPG assessments:
Provides teachers of SPG content areas a one-time opportunity to preview the revised assessments for 2016 - 2017.
Reviews will be held at the ISC in Building 200, Meadowcreek/Brookwood Rooms from 3:30 to 6:00 PM.
Thinking Skills Grades 2 - 5 will be available for preview.
Please forward the Survey Monkey Links to the appropriate teachers. Survey Monkey Preview Sign up dates 2/1/2016 - 2/24/2016. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GiftedResource
2015 CCRPI Data Available in the DOE Portal
Re: February 1, 2016 email from Melissa Fincher.
The 2015 CCRPI data is being downloaded for use in calculating CCRPI indicators in parts. This is to allow schools to have access to the data and calculators as it becomes available.
The information for your school is available in the DOE Portal https://portal.doe.k12.ga.us.
NOTES:
The points earned for each indicator have not been included in the CCRPI report as yet. You can review your progress using the benchmark provided and your school's performance on the indicator.
All data and information for the 2015 CCRPI is embargoed until the public release. (exception: HS Graduation Rates by subgroup is available to the public for 2015) .
If you need assistance or have questions please contact Georgann Eaton at 678.301.7179.
ACCESS for ELLs 2.0
The administration of ACCESS for ELLs will resume on Tuesday, February 2, 2016 for the twenty schools with the highest population of EL students who must participate in the assessment.
The following attachment lists the schools which will resume testing on Tuesday. TCs and TSTs at the schools noted in the following attachment will receive additional information today about applying the technology enhancements.
Additional schools will resume testing in the coming days as the technology enhancements are ready to be deployed. Information regarding the second group of schools to resume testing will be shared as the information becomes available.
The ACCESS for ELLs test administration window has been extended to March 11, 2016. Should additional days be needed, the Office of Assessment will work with the GaDOE to secure the necessary days.
Please send questions to GCPS Testing Team.
Curriculum and Instruction
SAVE THE DATE: New Teacher Orientation 2016
What: New Teacher Orientation
When: July 19-20, 2016
Fine Arts Professional Development in February
This Professional Development session will focus on a eCLASS development, resource development, and best practices. This is not a required meeting, as local school professional development takes precedence, but is an opportunity for the Fine Arts teachers from across the district to collaborate on these important aspects of their every day instruction.
What: Fine Arts Professional Development in February
When: February 15, 2016; 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Where: Gwinnett Online Campus
Reading Recovery/Literacy Lessons Awareness Session
Teachers interested in learning more about Reading Recovery/Literacy Lessons training are invited to attend this informational session. Details regarding the application and interview process will be shared. Classroom, Special Education, ELL, Gifted education teachers, as well as Literacy Specialist/Coaches are encouraged to attend.
What: Reading Recovery/Literacy Lessons Awareness Session
When: Monday, February 8, 2016; 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Where: Reading Recovery Training Lab at Benefield Elementary School
2016 Science AKS Review - Save the Date
Following the review of the revised state science standards in March, GCPS plans to review and revise the AKS for Science this summer. Beginning in March, we will be asking schools to nominate teachers to serve on grade specific AKS review teams that will review the AKS and prepare additional teacher resources as necessary. We will be sending out Review Team applications for you to share with your teachers in March 2016. Please note: Any revised or new AKS will not be implemented until Fall 2017 pending GEMS approval.
What: Save the Date - GCPS Science AKS Review Teams
When: June 6-7 & July 20-22 - 8:00am to 3:00pm
Captain Planet Project Learning Garden Grants
The Project Learning Garden application is currently open. Captain Planet is accepting Elementary and Middle Schools from Atlanta Public Schools, Cobb, DeKalb, Fulton and Gwinnett to apply. The application closes February 29th. Click the following Link to apply and learn more: https://captainplanetgrants.communityforce.com/Funds/Search.aspx#4371597136646D517975544F5976596D4E73384E69673D3D
To help you integrate Black History Month into your schools classrooms, please click on the link below for a selection of lesson plans and activities that cover a variety subjects and that can be adapted to fit grades K-5. http://www.nea.org/tools/lessons/bhm-curriculum-resources-gradesK-5.html
Presidents' Day is celebrated on the third Monday in February. Please click on the links below for a selection of lesson plans and activities that cover a variety of subjects.
https://www.teachervision.com/presidents-day/teacher-resources/6658.html
http://www.civiced.org/resources/curriculum/presidents-day
2016 Social Studies AKS Review
Following the review of the revised state social studies standards GCPS plans to review and revise the AKS for social studies. The state review is slated to be completed in March, pending State BOE approval of any revisions. We will be asking schools to nominate teachers to serve on grade specific AKS review teams that will review the AKS and prepare additional teacher resources as necessary. We plan to also use the members of the Social Studies Leadership team to assist with this task The process will begin in late July and continue throughout October. Details will be sent at a later date . The survey of the draft of the proposed standards is open until March 14. Encourage all of your social studies teachers to participate.
Please note: New AKS will not be implemented until Fall 2017 pending GEMS approval
Professional Development and Evaluation (PD&E) Training - Beginner's Session 2015-2016
This course is designed to train district and local school persons responsible for staff development on the use of the PD&E tool. Participants will learn how to develop courses in the tool, register participants, and conduct the post-processing steps. Attendees are encouraged to bring sample course information to the training and their laptops (if possible).
To see the full list of PD&E trainings login to the GCPS Portal and select the PD&E icon. To begin registration for the courses, type in PD&E in the search box.
When: February 18, 2016 8:30am – 11:30am, Course# 14984 Section# 22787
When: March 28, 2016 1:00pm – 4:00pm, Course# 14984 Section# 22788
When: April 25, 2016 1:00pm – 4:00pm, Course# 14984 Section# 22789
Where: ISC – Central Gwinnett
*Registration for this course closes three days before course start date.
Gwinnett Effectiveness Initiative
GTES Standards Training Course Offerings
This professional learning is designed to provide a focused learning opportunity for teachers to deepen their understanding of the Gwinnett Teacher Effectiveness System (GTES) Standards.
Participants will engage in interactive activities to aide in defining expectations, building knowledge, and applying that knowledge to practical school-based situations. During these courses participants will: explore the key characteristics of the standards, examine the rubric connected with the GTES, complete a self-assessment identifying current practices, observe teachers in action, and identify next steps for their practice.
To see the full list of GTES Standard Trainings login to the GCPS Portal and select the PD&E icon. To begin searching and registration for the courses type GTES in the Search Box.
SD - GTES - Communication Standard 2015-2016 (Face to Face)
When: February 29, 2016 - March 14, 2016 4:30 – 7:30 p.m., Course# 14787 Section# 22852
Where: ISC – 1.106/1.107/1.108
Register by 02/22/16
SD - GTES - Academically Challenging Environment Standard 2015-2016 (Face to Face)
When: March 28, 2016 - April 12, 2016 4:30 – 7:30 p.m., Course# 14786 Section# 22855
Where: ISC – 1.106/1.107/1.108
Register by 03/22/16
SD - GTES - Academically Challenging Environment Standard 2015-2016 (Online, Self-Paced)
When: All Year, Until you complete. Course # 15250
Where: Online, Self-Paced
Registration open all year
SD - GTES – Instructional Strategies Standard 2015-2016 (Face to Face)
When: April 18, 2016 - May 2, 2016 4:30 – 7:30 p.m., Course# 14785 Section# 22853
Where: ISC – 1.106/1.107/1.108
Register by 04/11/16
SD - GTES – Positive Learning Environment Standard 2015-2016 (Face to Face)
When: April 28, 2016 - May 12, 2016 4:30 – 7:30 p.m., Course# 14788 Section# 22854
Where: ISC – 1.106/1.107/1.108
Register by 04/21/16
SD - GTES – Positive Learning Environment Standard 2015-2016 (Online, Self-Paced)
When: All Year, Until you complete. Course # 14926
Where: Online, Self-Paced
Registration open all year
SD - GTES – Differentiated Instruction Standard 2015-2016 (Online, Self-Paced)
When: All Year, Until you complete. Course # 14985
Where: Online, Self-Paced
Registration open all year
Items Needed
We would like to transform my classroom into an outdoors environment. We are looking for the following:
Any free-standing pine trees (as in Christmas trees), a small pop-up tent, hiking gear, or a life-sized bear would be great. All items will be returned to you at the end of April. Please advise if you have anything we may borrow!
Hook'em and Hold'em Casino Night
Morten Andersen to Attend Casino Night
Former Falcons kicker and Pro Football Hall of Fame finalist Morten Andersen will be a special guest Hook'em and Hold'em Casino Night. Tickets are still available at
Monies Collected Tips from Jenifer our Bookkeeper
As you begin planning Field Trips, Club activities, etc., and start collecting money for these activities, I thought it would be helpful to send out some reminders and tips regarding money collections. I’ve included the most common errors that come across my desk, therefore I hope this will be helpful in saving everyone the precious commodity of time.
Forms of Payment
We accept cash, checks made payable to Sycamore Elementary, and credit/debit card payments through MyPaymentsPlus.
If you choose to use MyPaymentsPlus as a method, please let me know ahead of time to set up an “Activity” in MyPaymentsPlus in order for you to collect payments through this resource. I recommend this, because it is less paperwork for the both of us. I can set it up so that you receive an email when someone has paid, and also send you a list of who has paid on a weekly basis when I receive my deposit information. This will keep you informed as to who has paid.
Report of Monies Collected Forms
If you receive cash and/or checks for payments please use the Report of Monies Collected Standard Form found on the shared drive. The path is Sycamore > Teacher Information > Monies Collected Forms > RMC Form Standard. I strongly recommend saving the form to your computer once you fill it out, in case any corrections need to be made later, they can be fixed quickly. However, please use handwritten ink to sign and date the bottom of the form.
Please leave the “Account to Credit Line” BLANK. This is for Bookkeeper and Auditor’s purposes only. You will enter Grade Level and Purpose on the “Reason for Collecting Money Line”.
There must not be more than 1 week between the Date Collections Begin (at the top), and the Date of Your Signature (at the bottom, the date you turn your form into me).
Click here to view an Example Report of Moneys Collected Standard Form.
Receipts
If you collected cash from a student, and it is $10.01 or more, you must issue them a receipt. You may check out a receipt book from me.
No receipts have to be issued for checks received for any amount, because the check itself acts as their receipt. If however, a person requests a receipt for a check, you may do so upon their request.
Thank you for your help with all of the paperwork. As always, please come see me for any questions. I will be more than glad to help!
Jenifer Reese
Bookkeeper
Kudos
Kudos Ms. Moody for all of your work for "Kindness Week". The students really seemed to enjoy all of the activities! ~ Mandy Squires
Wilnia - I so appreciate you helping out in the afternoons when we really needed you. ~ Carolann
Jerry - thanks for always being there to help us at the drop of a hat and with a smile! ~ Carolann
Thank you, Carolann Z, for always being available to help schedule meetings for SPED! You are a godsend! ~ Melanie Brewer
Thank you to Mandy Squires, Martha Bailey, Mrs. Sample, Melanie Brewer and Mrs. Sullivan for helping us with fluency club!!! ~ Karen & Marjorie
Thank you Ms. Wyble for reading with a small group of students in my class despite having a busy schedule. ~ Deepa
Thank you Ms. Sample for donating a book for my class library. The students loved it! ~ Deepa
Thank you Ms. Laugerty for always being my eclass teacher with a BIG smile. ~ Deepa
Thank you Ms. Carlan for your time after school in helping come up with a lesson for STEMfest. ~ Deepa
Thank you Dana for going above and beyond on our Second Grade Science Deconstruction of Standards! Love you to the Moon and Back! ~ Second Grade Team
Kudos to Margaux and Bonita for being such great tire changing buddies. I really appreciate you all staying and all your help! ~ DeAnne Daniel
Thank you Ms. Black for the Admire and Acquire. You were very engaging and I loved your lesson. I was amazed by how the class put so much thought into their editing process. Great Job! ~ Ms. St. Aude
KUDOS to the wonderful Sheree Bailey. I so appreciate your friendship! Thanks for all you do! ~ Lauren Dean
KUDOS to my sidekick DeAnne Daniel for just being you. LOVE working with you each day! ~ Lauren Dean
KUDOS to DeAnne Daniel, Kim Glass, Carolann Zebrowski, and Corbett Estes for helping me out Thursday morning. I appreciate you! ~ Lauren Dean
KUDOS to Kristin Talley for hanging with us and our special friend. Thanks for all you do! ~ Lauren Dean
Read Across America Day
Warm Regards,
Amy Willard | Early Education Library Associate, Buford-Sugar Hill Branch
Gwinnett County Public Library
770-978-5154 | awillard@gwinnettpl.org
Supporting a Middle School Culture Event
The Lanier Middle School Student Advisement Committee will be hosting a Culture Night at Lanier Middle School from 6:00-8:00 PM on Tuesday, February 16th. Friends and family members of all ages are welcome to come experience the different cultures in our community. You will be able to immerse yourself in genuine dances, foods, currencies, and religions from places spanning the continents. We hope you can attend this exciting event, and encourage you to sign up using the link below to bring something if you believe you have cultural items/information worth sharing! The Student Advisement Committee can’t wait to see you in Africa, Asia, or even …???
If you have questions, please contact Carrie_Lather@gwinnett.k12.ga.us for more information.
Culturally yours,
Lanier Middle School Student Advisement Committee
Regards,
W. Kyle Jones Ed.S. (ABD)
Academy Coach
Language Arts
Lanier High School
Twitter: @theprofjones
MEDIA NEWS
PBIL Research Requests:
Grade level chairs and other staff who would like to work on collaborative research projects (utilizing media center resources for PBIL or other activities) should see Mrs. Wyble to schedule planning time, and subsequent student instructional time.
Leveled Informational Skills Instruction:
Be looking out for a "Media News Tidbit" email, outlining basic informational skills lessons that will be offered during the month of November.
Online Communique
The latest posts to the online Communiqué
include features on GCPS' Teacher of the Year, Career Connections, a salute to veterans, and Milestones results, plus calendar updates and Bulletin Board items. Coming up, watch for news on Principal for a Day, a unique career exploration event, and winter weather reminders.
New items are added each week.
Story ideas? Great photos? Feedback? Let us know at communique@gwinnett.k12.ga.us.
STEMCampATL - Spring 2016
STEMCampATL - Spring 2016
GCPS is proud to host the 2nd STEMCampATL for metro-Atlanta STEM educators. STEMCampATL is designed to provide access to high quality, personalized professional learning for K-12 educators. Embracing the belief that fellow STEM educators can provide some of the most valuable professional development resources for their colleagues. This learning will be driven by teachers for teachers. Come prepared to share and learn about innovative practices in STEM education. If you are not familiar with an edcamp-style learning opportunity, check this out: http://www.edutopia.org/blog/about-edcamp-unconference-history
What: STEMCampATL
When: Saturday March 12, 2016; 8:00am - 12:00pm
Where: Peachtree Ridge HS
To Register: http://stemcampatl.weebly.com/
Career Advancement Scholarships
It’s scholarship time at Peach State Federal Credit Union! For our 2016 Scholarship Program, we are awarding a total of $138,200 in scholarships and educational grants.
Our Career Advancement Scholarships, which honor the founders of Peach State, are a part of this program. Recognizing the importance of education as a lifelong experience, we will award 16 $2,000 Career Advancement Scholarships to eligible members of our credit union. All scholarship winners will be chosen by the end of April 2016 and notified shortly thereafter.
To be considered for the scholarships, all applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
· Must be a credit union member in good standing
· Must currently be enrolled in an accredited program of study at a college, university or technical institute with the goal of career advancement (proof of paid registration documents for current term or class schedule from accredited institution must be included)
Please share this information along with the attached scholarship application with your faculty and staff. Completed applications and supporting documentation must be received by Peach State no later than March 18, 2016. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Deborah
Deborah Fancher
Business Development
Peach State Federal Credit Union
Phone: 770.513.6394
Fax: 770.963.4066
Email: dfancher@peachstatefcu.org
Website: www.peachstatefcu.org
Application Link:
Sycamore Elementary School
Email: crystal_cooper_thompson@gwinnett.k12.ga.us
Website: sycamorees.org
Location: 5695 Sycamore Road, Sugar Hill, GA, United States
Phone: 678-714-5770
Facebook: facebook.com/sycamorees
Twitter: @sycamorees