Peirce Update
November 11, 2019
CPS released the annual School Quality Rating Policy on Friday, November 8th and for the first time ever, Peirce achieved Level 1+ status for the second year in a row. We continue to see growth on MAP, 96% or better on attendance, an organized school and growth in many of our priority group areas. While it is great to be rated Level 1+, it is important to keep in mind that a school rating does not entirely define who we are as a school - there is much to be proud of at Peirce that goes beyond what is measured on a school rating policy - our IB and Arts Programming, after school and sports programming, work around Social Emotional Learning & Restorative Practices and so much more! We also cannot lose sight of our work to close the achievement gap while also strengthening supports for students enrolled in our English Language Learner and Diverse Learner programs. Click here to learn more about CPS school ratings.
On another note, with mixed emotion, I share that Dr. Riemer accepted a position with central office aligned to the districts work around equity by providing instructional coaching and professional development for teachers and administrators. Her last day at Peirce will be Friday, November 22nd. You will find a farewell message from Dr. Riemer below.
For the past 3+ years, Dr. Riemer has been a thought partner and instructional leader who has supported me through some of the most challenging yet rewarding times in CPS. She has strengthened our MYP Program and partnership with Senn High School, expanded student travel opportunities, increased opportunities for parent and community involvement in the MYP, supported the development of our new-teacher mentoring program and provided high quality instructional support, feedback and professional development to teachers (just to name a few things). Students seek her out regularly and many have grown to appreciate her love for children.
Dr. Riemer will be greatly missed at Peirce, I know that she will have a tremendous impact on strengthening teaching and learning throughout Chicago Public Schools. I have posted the assistant principal position and will begin the search for her replacement.
CPS has tentatively set the following dates as make-up dates due to the CTU Strike - pending approval from the Board of Education on November 20th:
- Wednesday, November 27th
- Thursday, January 2nd
- Friday, January 3rd
- Wednesday, June 17th
- Thursday, June 18th
Please reach out with any questions you may have.
With Regards,
Lori Zaimi, Principal
A Note from Dr. Riemer
Greetings Peirce Community-
It is with bittersweet emotion that I inform you that my last day as Assistant Principal and MYP Coordinator here at Peirce will be November 22, 2019. I have accepted a position with the Chicago Public Schools Department of Teaching and Learning as a district-wide Instructional Coach and Professional Development Specialist. While I am excited for this new opportunity that directly speaks to my passion for educational leadership, I am sad to be stepping away from such a vibrant place. As I fondly look back on the 3+ years I have served here, I’d like to share a few things that have significantly touched my heart.
The work ethic, skill, and efficiency of our lunchroom staff, custodians and engineer is laudable. You take care of all of us in so many ways that often go unnoticed. I will forever be grateful to you for keeping my office nice and toasty, helping me move boxes and furniture, keeping the building safe and clean for students, the treats in the kitchen, and for Melvin’s jokes...I guess.
The joy, patience and sheer energy of our lunch and recess staff is like nothing I have ever seen. You sincerely enjoy the children and have transformed what could be a time of chaos and confusion into a positive, supportive, nurturing environment. I will truly miss the lunch duty dance party with DJ SHELTON!!
The multi-tasking, resourcefulness, and warmth of our Clerks who welcomed me from day one and have been a ceaseless source of encouragement. Sally and Lynn, I have no idea how you field so many concerns, put out so many fires, accommodate so many parents, distribute so many ice packs, and attend to the needs of all of us with a SMILE EVERYDAY. Thank you for always having my back...and my copies...and my table cloths...and my silk flowers....y el chicle.
The kindness and compassion of our nurses, counselors, clinicians, and case manager has been heartwarming. . Without your attention to detail, expert decision making, and responsiveness to our students, we wouldn't be able to keep this boat afloat. Thank you for sharing your “stash”, HpSister !
The fierce dedication, tenacity, and creativity of our teachers, interventionists, astounds me daily. To balance the demands of classroom management, assessment, planning for instruction, and organizing enriching field trips (with INSTRUCTIONAL activities *wink*), while implementing the Standards and Practices of IB is an ENORMOUS task. Yet, you each engage in the work with so much grace and class that it is nothing short of remarkable. I thank you for welcoming me into your classrooms, your pedagogy, and your lives…
The flexibility, skill and resolve of our SECAS, security staff, and instructional assistants has inspired me.. You make it a regular routine of going above and beyond for our students, our staff, our families, and you have gone the extra mile for me on more than one occasion. Thank you for being HERE for all of us.
The commitment, involvement, and support of our parents is unrivaled. I have never in my entire career seen a group of parents as fiercely determined to make their school the absolute best place for ALL students to learn. Your philanthropy, organization, heart for service, and overall support of our teachers all contribute enormously to the stellar reputation of Peirce school. Peirce parents are PRICELESS!
The transformative, thoughtful, and extraordinary efficiency of our Principal Lori Zami is Leadership at its absolute finest. I cannot even begin to enumerate the invaluable learning I have gained through serving as your “second in command.” You are knowledgeable with a growth mindset, and demanding yet gentle. This school community is truly fortunate to have you at the helm. Kristen, grab a pad and a pen, the lessons are bountiful!
And last but not least, the enthusiasm, intellect, and humanity of our students kept me connected to why this work means so much to me. You have given me your stories, your art, your laughter, your hugs (with and without sticky fingers), your joy, and a few of my newest gray hairs (thanks to that NYC subway). I wouldn't trade a minute of it for the world !!!
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of the undeniable beauty that is Peirce. Beyoncé and I wish everyone of you the ABSOLUTE best.
Sincerely-
Dr. Talyia Eve Riemer, NBCT.
Helen C. Peirce School of International Studies
Email: lzaimi@cps.edu
Website: peirce.cps.edu
Location: 1423 W Bryn Mawr Chicago, IL
Phone: 773-534-2440
Facebook: facebook.com/peircecps