The Weekly FIRE
Flexibility, Integrity, Respect, Effort
issue 13: 01/19/2021
Hello Dragons-
Last week Reynolds School District made the announcement that we are going to continue with Comprehensive Distance Learning through at least the end of Spring Break (March 26th).
I have heard from many of you how anxious you are to return to in-person instruction. We are anxious to come back to school too, and we are doing everything we can to be ready to bring you back for in-person classes just as soon as it is safe enough to do so.
In the meantime, if you are someone who is having a hard time with distance learning, please don’t wait get help. Check in with your advisory teacher. Make an appointment with your counselor. Let us help you figure out a way to continue making progress towards graduation. The fact is, we don’t know when we will be able to return to in-person instruction. Whatever you can do to use this time to make any progress you can towards graduation, you will thank yourself for later.
-Principal Aaron
The following is the text of the full letter from Superintendent Diaz about the decision to remain in Comprehensive Distance Learning:
Dear Reynolds School District Students, Families, and Staff:
Your safety continues to be my highest priority as we look toward offering in-person instruction in the future. Due to the current and expected level of COVID-19 risk in our county as well as new information regarding vaccinations for school staff, I recommended to the Board that Reynolds School District remain in Comprehensive Distance Learning through March 26, 2021 (the end of Spring Break). This recommendation made at last night's Board Work Session is intended to allow additional planning time to offer safe in-person instruction in the future and greater deployment of the COVID-19 vaccine. After careful discussion, the Reynolds School Board gave me consensus to move forward with the recommendation and will take action to approve this plan at the January 27th Board Business Meeting.
Governor Brown recently issued a change to the guidance on the metrics to reopen schools on December 23rd. This change includes moving Oregon's COVID-19 Health Metrics for Returning to In-Person Instruction to advisory metrics effective January 1, 2021, rather than mandatory metrics as previously issued. This move allows school districts to determine a localized response to opening schools to any in-person instruction.
Although the mandate has changed, Reynolds School District maintains our priority for safety. The previously developed metrics are still considered advisory until we receive new guidance from the state. We will maintain using these metrics to determine when it may be safe to open for in-person instruction for our students and staff. The COVID-19 risk metrics for Multnomah County continue to remain in the "Extreme Risk" category and we expect the risks to continue for some time according to recent projections. You can monitor the county metrics on our website here or on the state website here.
The decision to offer in-person instruction while in a global pandemic is determined by multiple complex factors. District leadership are currently reviewing all input to determine the feasibility and timing of providing in-person instruction in the future. This includes recent family and staff surveys to give us an indication of your own concerns for health and safety. I would like to thank all of you who gave us this vital feedback, and I fully understand the seriousness of your concerns.
Governor Brown also recently announced that COVID-19 vaccinations will be available to teachers and support staff beginning January 23, 2021. I am thrilled to know that vaccinations for educators have been accelerated, and we are currently working closely with our local public health authority to determine a timeline. Although vaccinations for teachers and support staff could begin over the next few weeks, the vaccination process can take up to six weeks to provide the expected level of effectiveness. You can find more information on the COVID-19 vaccine here and here.
I understand that remaining in Comprehensive Distance Learning through Spring Break may not be welcome news to everyone in our community. There are no easy decisions when weighing the benefits of in-person instruction with the risks of serious illness or death from COVID-19. I appreciate each individual family's and staff member's circumstances and vow to continue working with you to find safe solutions for bringing our students back into school buildings for in-person instruction as soon as feasibly possible. We will continue to keep you informed as we move through this process.
I thank you for doing your part to stop the spread of COVID-19. We continue working together for our students, for together... We are Reynolds!
Respectfully,
Dr. Danna Diaz
Superintendent of Schools
Animal Guide of the Week:
-Laura Craford, RLA Social Worker
For those of you who do not know what the animal cards mean…
Each newsletter I will pull a card from my deck of animal guide cards, it is our message for the week—something we need to think about, understand or that we need to remember about ourselves or a situation. This is something that I have been doing with RLA students and staff for a while now, it’s my thing. 😊 If you ever want your own card, message me (Laura) through teams or @ (740) 240-2311 and I will send you a picture of one, just like when you would come to my office for one when we were in school!
Unicorn
This week at RLA we are UNICORNS: “Indulge your creative, imaginative, and magical side through some form of artistic expression.” People always say they want this card—they want to be a unicorn! For me though, I find this card to be a bit intimidating. It feels big, like I should be creating a mural or a dance routine or writing poetry, none of which I could likely pull off, and then sharing it with the world. When I do get the unicorn, I must take a deep breath and remind myself that creativity, artistic expression shows itself in various ways. Your way, my way, and the unicorn way. It all counts. So today when I pulled this card for our school community, I chose some food art for myself. I love to cook, and I like to make it look pretty when I put on the plate for people…and I like to take pictures of it. I haven’t written a poem about it or created a dance to go with it, although I do like to do some dancing while I cook, but the food will surely look pretty when I share it. So, remember when you are thinking about how to pull of the unicorn, artistic expression shows itself in various ways…what’s your way?
I think I would like to talk to someone...
Are you in need of Resources?
Do you want to talk to Janna Cash, the school counselor?
Do you have questions about your credits, transcript, or graduation plan? Students and parents can schedule a meeting with her here!
Jesse now has a virtual office!
Lines for Life
- Edgar Aquino-Avalos – Dude!! You are the guy! Great job so far – in it to win it for sure!! - Sue
- Mario Hernandez – I see you!! You are trying really hard – keep at it – I believe in you - Sue
- Marshelly Marcial Jacinto – Way to come back from behind – you are a rockstar! - Sue
- Jonathan Reyes Reyes – WOOHOO – you are awesome! Totally in it to win it! - Sue
- Kevin Borrayo – You are doing great! Keep it up! - Sue
- Jeremiah Rosenthal – Go guy!! You are trying really hard and it’s paying off – great job!!! - Sue
Maureen Shouts out to:
- Brokk Smith-- Great participation and showing up for his education! Keep it up.
Kramer shouts out to:
- Precious Aguilera---for being such a great working, persistent, and always a positive force.
- Armando Quintero---You are amazing, and I appreciate all your hard work and communication.
- Giovanni Cervantes-Salazar---You rock, and I appreciate your hard work and dedication to learning!
Jo shout outs to:
- Jesue Paz Zacarias
- Natalie Casarez Alvarado
- Stephanie Sauno
- Dayona Morris
- Manny Gallo
- Debo
I bet you never heard of Alfredo Quinones-Hinojosa.
-Sue Rosemarin, Science
Alfredo Quiñones-Hinojosa (also known as "Dr. Q") is a neurosurgeon, author, and researcher. Currently, he is the William J. and Charles H. Mayo Professor and Chair of Neurologic Surgery and runs a basic science research lab at the Mayo Clinic Jacksonville in Florida. In recognition of his work, Dr. Quiñones-Hinojosa has received many awards and honors, including being named as one of the 100 most influential Hispanics in the U.S. by Hispanic Business Journal in 2008.
Welcome to today's The Science Behind COVID-19 Prevention! This week I wanted to explore a myth that has been spread around since the beginning of this pandemic. The myth that COVID is "just a type of flu". There are several things that make COVID unique and more dangerous than the flu. We are approaching a year since COVID started its rapid spread across the globe. As of this article being written, has infected close to a billion people on EARTH and killed close to 2 million. In the United States alone, 23+ million have gotten it and close to 400,000 have died. That is more deaths, in 1 year then the flu killed in the last 8 years combined!
Today's video explores the why's that make COVID so much more dangerous than the flu. As this vaccine slowly gets administered to the public, we need to be more diligent than ever to slow the spread of the virus. Just because we are tired of it, does not make it any less dangerous.
Stay safe my friends and email me if you have questions! (gpena@RSD7.net)
Earn CTE or Elective Credit by taking Kathi's Permit Prep Class every 1st Monday of the Month
Want to Earn CTE or Elective Credit while prepping for your permit? Need help preparing to take the Oregon Permit test? If so, then this is your class!
Check out Kathi “The Job Lady’s” Monday YTP Class below.
You can earn .50 credit by attending, ask me how!
Have questions about Permit Prep or anything else “job” or “life” related, please email me Kathi Morris at kmorris@rsd7.net or text/call me at 503-708-6540.
Monday: Feb 1st, March 1st, April 5th, May 3rd & June 7th
Time: 1pm - 2:30pm
Meeting ID: 964 0575 7931
Passcode: RLA
Want 5 tips on looking for work?? If so, read this article! Each week Kathi “The Job Lady” will give you “tips and tricks” on this and much more! If you want individual help, contact Kathi: kmorris@rsd7.net or 503-708-6540 (text is fine).
These are 5 Best Pieces of Advice for Anyone Looking for a Job Right Now
Job searching is never easy. But during the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting recession, job searching can feel like mission impossible. There's a wealth of information out there about companies that are still hiring, why you should keep applying, and exactly how to hunt for jobs during these trying times.
But it's nice to hear it straight from the mouths of hiring managers who are on the other side of things. Below are their tips!
1. Upload your resume to indeed in a PDF (or whatever platform you are using). Makes things much easier.
2. Pay attention to your objective/header. Saying you are looking for a career in an industry that's not the one you are applying for is frustrating.
3. If you do not have experience in the industry, give a compelling reason as to why you are applying. When you have no relevant experience and they can't see why you are applying, they pass you right over.
4. Please read the ad before blindly submitting your resume. They can tell when you haven’t!
5. If you are over qualified or have been out of work for the past two years, give a reason you want the position and/or why you haven't been working.
Clubs
GSA
Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) is a club to unite LGBTQ+ and allies. It's a space to come together to talk and learn about sexual orientation and gender identity. A place to build community and discuss the issues that impact it and you. This will be a safe, welcoming, and accepting space for all.
ZOOM: Meeting ID: 997 0308 6129 & Passcode: 500314
If you're interested in GSA or have any questions about the club, please contact Linda at:
BSU
The Black Student Union (BSU) is an organization at Reynolds Learning Academy that is devoted to spreading the history of Black Culture. We are doing this through cultural forums, educational workshops and entertainment events. We are all unified in one voice in order to embrace and enrich Black culture. We welcome all ethnicities and value growth, development and strive for cross-cultural understanding and appreciation of all our diverse histories and experiences.
Standing Motto “Unity Bridges Gaps”
Any students interested in joining the Black Student Union (BSU) please contact Ramon Hall at:
Groups, Groups & More Groups!
Self-care/Wellness Group, Stress Management, Grief & Loss, Making Connections…and more. If you are interested in learning more or joining a group or you have an idea for a group, contact Laura at:
lcraford@rsd7.net or call/text (740) 240-2311
Arts & Crafts: Thursday, 3:30pm
Arts & Crafts Group will be wrapping up in the next few weeks. However, if you are interested and weren’t able to join the first round, you are in luck! A new Arts & Crafts group will be starting soon. If making things with your hands and being creative, while enjoying some social time is your thing, send Jesse an email and let her know you’d like to join!
Todd Brehm, tbrehm@trilliumfamily.org 971-334-2009
Jesse Bright jbright@trilliumfamily.org 503-318-2905
A Chuckle with Kendra
1. What do you call a row of rabbits hopping away?
2. Why don't they play poker in the jungle?
You can find the answers at the bottom of The Weekly FIRE.
Principal Office Hours and Open Family Meetings
This year the Principal will be holding regular times when you can meet with him without an appointment. Open family meetings will be held on Thursday evenings. The Principal will make some brief announcements and then open the floor for questions, comments and discussion. Office hours will be held on Thursday mornings and will be a place where you can drop in to ask a question or get help from the Principal. Dates, times and the Zoom link are below.
Helpful Links:
This is a link to your Clever login. Follow this link to get into your schoology, school email, SutdentVUE, Teams meetings and other school resources from any computer.
Remember your login is: schoolID@students.rsd7.net
Your password is your school ID number followed by your 8 digit birthday (schoolid+mmddyyyy)
You can find our general student schedule here:
https://www.reynolds.k12.or.us/rla/student-weekly-schedule
The school calendar for 2020-2021 is here:
English:
Español:
If you are an RLA student, make sure you are signed up to get remind messages:
https://www.remind.com/join/cc7eh7
If you are an RLA parent, make sure you are signed up to get remind messages:
How to reach us:
Aaron Ferguson
Principal
503.667.4673 ex 3430
Angie Gilbert
Trades/Careers and Internships
503.667.4673 ex 3606
Brendan O'Malley
Art/Math
406-616-2852
Chris Phelps
Social Studies
503-667-4673 ex 3617
Gina Bousley
Case Management
503.667.4673 ex 3613
Gio Peña
Science
971-258-0180
Giovanna Gioffre
English
503-667-4673 ex 3604
Janna Cash
Counselor
541-362-1959
Jesse Bright
Skills Trainer
503-318-2905
Jessica Sexton
School Psychologist
(360)991-9572
Jessica Kramer
Social Studies
(503)780-4809
Jim Deady
Credit Recovery
Call: 503.667.4673 ex 3045 Text: (541) 937 5460
Julie Mack
Wellness
503-667-4673 ex 3608
Karri Klock
Registrar
503-667-4673
Katherine Howton
Math
( 609) 380-1007
Kathi Morris
YTP Specialist
(503)708-6540
Kendra DeWater
Math
(971) 217-6214
Kristin Aubel Topletz
Night School
503-893-5088
Laura Craford
Social Worker
503.667.4673 ex 3620
Lauren Tobias
Case Management
503.667.4673 ex 3618
Linda Lamendola-Gilliam
SMT/GSA/Newsletter Manager
(503)667-4673 x3630
Maureen Geraghty
English
503-830-1752
Neal Noble
Math
503-667-4673 ex 3609
Ramon Hall
SMT/BSU Leader
Sue Rosemarin
Science
503-667-4673 ex 3598
Todd Brehm
Prevention Specialist
971-334-2009
If you need help with school work between the hours of 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM, Monday through Thursday you can reach out to our Night School Teacher Kristin Aubel Topletz at 503-893-5088 or email her at kaubeltopletz@rsd7.net
Si desea comunicarse con algún miembro del personal y desea ayuda en español, puede comunicarse con nuestra enlace familiar Nancy Gutierrez Leon llamando al 503-667-4673 ex 3634 o enviándole un correo electrónico a NGutierrezLeon@rsd7.net. También puede enviarle mensajes de texto al 971-236-3174.
Answers to: A Chuckle with Kendra
1. A receding hare line!
2. Too many cheetahs!
Reynolds Learning Academy
Website: https://www.reynolds.k12.or.us/rla
Location: 20234 Northeast Halsey Street, Fairview, OR, USA
Phone: (503) 667-4673