Cat Tracks
Spring Shadows Elementary Wildcats Staff Newsletter
August 12-16, 2019
Our Vision
Our Mission
Core Beliefs
- Each student has unique intellectual, emotional, social, and physical qualities.
- We embrace a child’s individual values, interests, and personalities.
- Parents are confident in their child’s social and intellectual educational growth.
- Educators lead their craft by preparing learners in our fast changing world
Principal's Message
I hope you were able to kick start you new year with a lot of learning and preparation for our students! I can imagine that you had great conversations surrounding the best practices for student learning.
I can't say enough about the impact TCRWP-the writing institute had on me. I'm sure Priscilla and Noe can say the same. The institute reaffirmed my passion for ensuring all students are learning at high levels and reminded me why I chose teaching as my craft. Although writer's workshop takes only 45 minutes each day of instruction accompanied by reader's workshop, it solidified the urgency we need to have to make sure all our students are effective communicators. Critically thinking, reading, and writing are the key to T-2-4 success. We will have more discussions surrounding our units of study for writing. However, as we get into the key beginning stages of preparation for student learning, there are some non-negotiables when it comes to your writing area:
1) A classroom library. Reading and writing go hand in hand. All classrooms should be outfitted with a classroom library that is inviting and gives access to high interest books.
2). Writing Folders and Writing Notebooks: Each child in K-1st should have a writing folder where they will be collecting their drafts. Each child in 2nd grade can begin the transition to notebooks by using the primary lined notebook. Although teachers can decide if you want to start using the folders the first semester, then transition to notebooks mid semester. (it's your call). By third grade and up, each child should have their own writing notebook and folder. These should be house in the writing station (not in their desks.)
3.) The Writing Process Poster/Display: Each classroom from K-5th grade shall have a writing section in their room and have a writing process poster/display.
4.) The Writing Station/Center: The station is a place where students can access all the tools they need to be successful writers. Ideally stationed near the library, this location houses myriad paper options, writing utensils, stick notes, and a location to keep all writing folder and writing notebooks in one place.
5.) A whole group and small group space: Your classroom should be set up for reader's workshop and the same spaces will be required to run an effective writer's workshop.
I've included a powerpoint with more information to help you plan and organize the learning space.
There is so much more to come! We will scaffold it as you are learning and teaching the units.
Other updates:
Enrollment: We had a robust registration start and we are currently at 661 students enrolled. We are currently looking at our Kinders and 5th bilingual with the largest numbers. Remember, we always wait for the first 10 days of school to see confirmed wildcats in class.
Staffing: Let's give a hello to the following folks that joined our team:
- Mr. David Nosrat- he just joined us on Thursday! I hope he introduced himself to everyone! He will be joining us as a 5th grade ESL teacher.
- Ms. Borsos will be subbing for Ms. Abbasi in Lifeskills. Ms. Abbasi has taken a leave of absence.
- Ms. Krebs will be our librarian substitute. She is a retired librarian eager to help us get going!
Please welcome our friends joining us to help us and our kids!
Please enjoy your weekend and see you very soon!
With love, respect, and admiration,
Rachel Martinez
Calendar
Monday, August 12th
- 7:45-8:00 4th/5th Grade Potluck
- 8:00-9:30 "When are we there yet?" Presentation on Accountability, Progress, and Growth
- 9:30-10:30: The Care Team Presentation
- 10:30-11:30: Prepping for Open House
- 11:30-12:30: Lunch
- 12:30-1:30: Prepping for Open House
- 1:30-3:00 Open House (open link)
Tuesday, August 13th
- 7:45- Potluck Breakfast (Provided by SPED & SPECIALS)
- 8:00-12:00 Keys to Success at SSE (T-TESS, Handbook, Schedules, etc.)
- 12:00-1:00 Lunch on Your Own
- 1:00-3:45 Textbook Check Out and Prep Time.
- Building Open from 7:00-6:00
Wednesday, August 14th
- 8:00-4:00 Teacher Workday
- Relentless team snacks in the lounge.
Thursday, August 15th: Follow Thursday Schedule
- 6:50: Report to School to Welcome our Children and be ready in assigned station.
- 7:00: All Homeroom Teachers Report to Classrooms for 1st Day of School.
- 7:30: Announcements- Pledge, Welcome Back Announcements, Resolution of Respect.
- Lunch Time: Enjoy Taco Salad Bar in the Lounge
- 2:00: Prep for Dismissal
- 2:30: Dismissal
- 2:45: 1st Day Huddle in the Library
Friday, August 16th: Follow Thursday's Schedule
- 6:50: Report to School to Welcome our Children and be ready in assigned station.
- 7:00: All Homeroom Teachers Report to Classrooms for 1st Day of School.
- 7:30: Announcements- Pledge, Welcome Back Announcements, Resolution of Respect.
- 2:00: Prep for Dismissal
- 2:30: Dismissal
- 2:45: You made it! Enjoy your Weekend!!!
Heads Up: Monday officially starts with Extended Day Planning Kinder.
Preparing for Learning & Welcoming our Students
Please see the following:
- Bulletin Board Assignments (They have changed. If you need a key to the bulletin boards, get with Ms. Trini Belmontes, head custodian.)
- (re)Design Your Space Powerpoint- There are some new considerations as you plan for your room and hallways. You can access it here: (re) Design Your Space .
- Please view the new Writing Workshop Provisions Informational Checklists from TCRWP:
Shout Outs
Spring Shadows Elementary
Email: rachel.martinez@springbranchisd.com
Website: https://cms.springbranchisd.com/sse2/
Location: 9725 Kempwood Drive, Houston, TX, United States
Phone: (713) 251-7100
Twitter: @twitter_rachelmartinez4