Sipley School Weekly Howl
Week of Monday, October 16, 2017
We Teach the WHOLE Child
ASCD Whole Child Initiative
Observation Information
If you would like me to come in to observe any specific area of your evaluation with discussion that follows, please let me know. I can serve as a coach in that manner, through a non-evaluative manner. When I come in for the informal and formal observations, those are evaluative and the only thing that pertains to one's summative evaluation.
How Are We Going?
I want to provide staff with some updates on items we discussed at a recent Monday Meeting.
- When we last met, we shared that we need to work on adult behaviors in our lunchroom, meaning that adults need to stick with the routines and procedures outlined in our staff handbook. Our lunchroom staff has made a few adjustments. I have been in the lunchroom more often, since our meeting, and when I am there, I see greater alignment. We have sixth grade volunteers who are going to begin assisting kindergarten students opening lunch items.
- We also highlighted a need to get students to lunch, specials, and recess, and dismissal on time. I haven't been able to gain a pulse on this item, but let's all work together to get students where they need to be on time.
- Bathroom behavior was an area that needs attention and based on my observation, this is an area we can still focus on. At the heart of bathroom and hallway behavior lies the importance of remaining silent such that we respect the learning environment of our school. When respect for the learning environment is evident, the talking is eliminated. There is an expectation of a level 0 voice in halls and bathrooms. When that expectation breaks down, lets all remind student of the expectation, but most importantly, our WHY - Because we are a school of learning and we respect the learning spaces and office spaces of others.
- Inconsistency of adult follow-through related to school-wide expectations. Based on what I am seeing, I see staff members who are doing their very best. The school year is in full-swing and I see everyone settling in. I see an all-in approach where staff are teaching and reteaching students, no matter the staff's position. Let's continue to take that All-In approach. Each kid is OUR kid.
- Dismissal was an area for improvement. I am outside at dismissal, so I haven't been around to evaluate this area. Let's all pitch in by being active during dismissal.
Overall, I am pleased with how we are going and I am very proud of our entire staff. I know everyone is working hard and pulling the same rope.
Reason to Celebrate
Teacher To Do Items
Tenured staff - You must enter yourself-reflection into Talent Ed by October 15th
Teachers - Enter your Fun Run Time into your schedule for next week. Damon sent a schedule to everyone.
All staff - We have a Fire and ROE safety walk through on Tuesday and Wednesday. You need a clear access to the exit door in your room (if you have one). You need to remove all door jams (wedges). Your ventilation needs to flow, meaning you do not have items blocking the flow of air. You should not have excessive pillows or stuffed items around. Please check your learning space for these items for our visits on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Certified staff - Please make sure that someone signs up for the STP meeting on Thursday.
Certified staff - Continue to send post cards home to students/parents. Positive phone calls home are also encouraged.
Consider joining the Book Club that Toni shared.
Consider attending the Greg Tang Jr. Family Math Night on Tuesday. Brittney, Julie, Pete, and Dan attended a Greg Tang Sr. workshop and they will present on 10/23. This may be a great way to enjoy time with families and to add a few tricks to your toolbox.
A Glance at the Week Ahead
Monday - 2nd grade PLC - 12:25 - 1:15
Monday - 3rd grade PLC - 1:15 - 2:05
Monday - Board Meeting - Kindergarten students lead the Pledge. Coaches present.
Tuesday - Fire Department Walk-Through
Tuesday - 5th grade PLC - 8:25 - 9:15
Tuesday - 6th grade PLC - 9:15 - 10:05
Tuesday - 4th grade PLC - 10:30 - 11:20
Tuesday - Greg Tang Jr. Math Family Night at JJHS
Wednesday and Thursday - Outdoor Ed Trip
Wednesday - Dorsey's Birthday!!!
Wednesday - ROE Walk-through
Wednesday - 1st Grade PLC - 2:05 - 2:55
Thursday - Kdg PLC - 1:15 - 2:05
Thursday - STP Meeting - 6:45