Points of Pride
December 1, 2017
Instructional Focus:
From Thanksgiving to New Year's is commonly called the "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year." While this statement rings true for the majority of our students, this time of the year can also be downright scary for some. In today's culture, many of our students' families do not look like the ones on television.
The holidays can bring many unknowns to our students. At Settler's we have many students in the foster system, a couple of families that are classified as McKinney Vento (meeting federal guidelines to be considered homeless), a multitude of students that are affected by divorce/separation of parents, and many that handle day to day situations that are less than ideal.
Some students are concerned about who they will be spending the holidays with, others are nervous about what, if anything they are going to get for Christmas. For some students, Settler's Point is the stability in their life, and the thought of having two weeks off is tough on them.
By all means, enjoy the holiday season with your students; however, in all the craziness, take the time to connect with your students. Be mindful of changes in behavior as the holidays approach. Keep your daily routines constant and predictable (as much as you can). Love on your students, yes, even "that student."
Robert
Spelling Bee Practice....
The front office will make an announcement at 11:20 for all spelling bee contestants to report to the main hallway (meet at the trophy case) on Monday. They will be practicing until about 12:00.
Spelling Bee Information:
- The Spelling Bee will start on Tuesday at 9:00 on channel 11.
- Watching the Spelling Bee is at the teacher's discretion, but grades 3, 4, 5, and 6 should at least watch to cheer on your representatives. You are more than welcome to have your students watch all of it, part of it, or have it on while students are working on something (could be a good time to get make up work in).
- We put Jarred in charge of picking out trophies this year, and WOW, wait until you see the size of the trophies.
- Since it is going to be broadcast, if it's during your specials time, reach out to the teacher to make arrangements.
Holiday Potluck....
While we are not doing a formal holiday party, Lindsay and Tina do have some plans "up their sleeves," to spread the holiday cheer.
Helping Hands Fundraiser....
We earned over $300 to help our SPE families in times of need.
This will run for the rest of the week. As money continues to come in, ensure that you are turning it in daily. You are more than welcome to put it in your donation/cash envelope.
SETI Instructors Needed....
They are looking for instructors to teach courses. Teachers selected will be compensated for preparing and presenting their class, and will present one day, and attend the next (guaranteed a spot).
If you are interested in teaching, send me an email with what topic you might be interested in.
PD December 6...
Meet us in the library at 2:30, as Eryn, Rachel, and Catherine take you through the "nuts and bolts" of the new math standards that will go into effect next year (changes are smaller in relation to the ELA standards).
This PD should only be an hour or so.
Specials and preschool teacher do not need to attend, but are welcome to join. However, this is contract time so you must still be on campus and working, unless I provide prior permission.
District Visits Tues. and Wednesday...
There will be several people on campus this week, including: Jason Martin (we will be visiting classes), Dr. Jim Lockwood (our hearing officer), and people from tech services will be checking locations for our new copiers and printers.
Data Wall and Sub. Accommodations
Homeroom teachers-Your input on student behavior analysis sheets are due before break.
Way to go!!!!!
- 86% of 2nd grade students passed the ELA assessment (district average is currently 67%)
- 74% of our 5th grade students passed the ELA assessment (district average is currently 68%)
- 62% of our 3rd grade students passed the ELA assessment (district average is currently 55%)
Way to go!!! So proud of all your hard work!!!