December 9-13

Nothing will ever be attempted if all possible objections must first be overcome. 

-Samuel Johnson

Please remember this as you are being asked to do things a little differently than in the past.  In speaking with all different grade level teams and teachers, I've found that those who approach Gradual Release, Shared Reading, and Focus lessons with intellectual curiosity and a positive mindset have been the most successful in implementing these practices in the classroom.

Two weeks before the big break.  What is it that each child needs to improve as a communicator, a reader, and a mathematician in the next two weeks?

Think about it and make it happen,

Josh

Kudos

• Susan Janik won a $1,500 grant to purchase an interactive whiteboard for the library!
• Marissa Gerhke--In November, we had 7 Schools of Hope tutors serve a total of 32 hours, plus almost 20 hours from Katie the BAT. 38 students received individual tutoring in literacy, and 23 received individual tutoring in math.
• Daniela Ocampo--for coordinating a herculean tamale fundraiser.  Over 2,000 tamales made and sold by Nuestro Mundo staff and parents.

Updates

• Daniela out of the building today.
• Josh out of the building Wed. morning.
• Fire Drill changed to Friday morning at 9:30
• Next Monday, Dec. 16, will be our next Deep Dive.  The Deputy Asst. Superintendent, Nancy Hanks, will be visiting again.  You can expect an observation by two or more staff members on this date.  These observations are non-evaluative, and meant to be a way for us to collect evidence as to the progress of the school improvement plan.  We will be looking for evidence of Focus Lessons, setting a purpose for the lesson with students, and structured turn-and-talks.

Grant Opportunity

From the Meemic Foundation:

We understand that it can be difficult to find funding for programs, events or projects that can enhance students’ classroom experience. That’s why we are excited to provide you information regarding The Meemic Foundation, a non-profit organization created by Meemic Insurance Company. The Meemic Foundation has been providing financial assistance in the form of grants to schools, educators and support staff since 1992, thus impacting more than 1.5 million students.

To deepen that impact, the Foundation is currently accepting grant applications for funding up to $500. Are you looking for funding to support a field trip?  Need books for your classroom?  If there is a special school or class project that is in need of financial assistance, let the Foundation help support that endeavor. Please visit our websitewww.MeemicFoundation.com  for information on the Foundation as well as to apply for a grant.

We also encourage you to pass this opportunity on to your colleagues and others who may be interested in applying for a grant.  The application deadline for the current grant round is December 31. If your grant is chosen, funds would be available in mid-February. If that deadline is not possible, don’t worry, grant applications are accepted any time.

The Meemic Foundation over the years has had the pleasure of providing funds to some of the most creative and passionate teachers anywhere. Their stories inspire us to continue funding projects that affect our students and support the educational communities where we live and work.

Any questions regarding the Foundation can be directed to Roy Hinz at roy.hinz@meemic.com. Roy serves as the Community Advocacy Administrator for the Foundation.

Important Dates

• 12/9: PLC Grant team meeting 2:00-3:00 in Rigo's room
• 12/9: PBS Team meeting 2:15-3:15
• 12/10: 2/3 Music Concert 6:30-7:30 in gym
• 12/12: SBLT Meeting 3:30-5:00 in Kiersten's room
• 12/13: Fire Drill 9:30
• 12/16: Deep Dive Visit
• 12/16: Staff PD
• 12/19: Gina's B-day
• 12/21: Winter Break begins!
• 12/26: Vanessa B-day