Monday Points: May 6, 2013

Monday Points

May 6, 2013

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! This week Monday Points welcomes guest writer, our esteemed counselor, Andrea Love…

Celebration Point:

I want to take a few minutes to acknowledge the great work that went into the garden in the court yard as well the music project that is starting to take shape. Both of these projects are examples of staff going above and beyond, community involvement, and authentic hands on learning experiences for our students. In addition to that, I for one, am thrilled that this central space on campus is something beautiful that we as a school community can take pride in.

Instructional Point:

We had our last Success Academy of the year last week (April 22-25). It was a really great group of students who I am excited to welcome onto campus. We have started finishing the Success Academy class with a small Graduation Ceremony. During this ritual students have an opportunity to articulate what they value, their goals, and what motivates them. They also receive a certificate and have a group picture taken.  I believe that this is an important piece of what we do in the class for two reasons: first we as a whole group are taking time to acknowledge an accomplishment and an important milestone in student’s education and second students are required to present in front of the group, practicing their presentation skills. What are other ways we can mark important accomplishments and milestones? How can we increase opportunities for students to get up in front of a group and present?

Data Point:

A few weeks ago I collected data on our students’ mental health at New Start. I have turned this information over to a student who is using it in her Senior Project (after taking steps to ensure confidentiality). However, in my initial glance through the surveys I was surprised by some of the responses that I saw. Fortunately, fewer students felt depressed or exhibited symptoms of depression than I expected. This was very encouraging. What can we do to continue the conversation about mental health and to ensure that students basic as well as emotional needs are met so that they can focus on learning?

Guest Writer’s Point:

As you know, this week our students at New Start are presenting their Senior Projects. In a few weeks students will also have their second students led conferences of the year. These are both important rituals that we as an entire school engage in. How can we continue to increase the weight that these events carry as well as the buy in from students? What would make these experiences more authentic? I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this as the next few weeks unfold. Thank you for all of the work that you have put into supporting our students in these endeavors. 

PCT Point: May 10, 2013. 1:00 @ New Start and CHOICE Sites: “Indistar the new SIP”

This Friday sites meet at their respective locations with all staff to inputs action plans for school improvement and learn about the Indistar processes.  

Mike’s Schedule:

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
May 6	May 7	May 8	May 9	May 10
Weekly Letter AP Appeals Evaluation Writing M/Parent Sped Meeting Teachscape Study Group	Evaluation Meetings In Classrooms Staff Meeting Prep New Start Staff Meeting	New Start Teacher Breakfast District MTSS Work Indistar Work PCT Prep Evaluation Meeting	Navigation 101 Conference (Seattle) Advisory Retreat Strategic Planning Meeting	Woodside Teacher Breakfast Weekly Admin Meeting ELL Planning PCT: Indistar HEA Update

Please take some time to appreciate our teachers this week for their hard work and commitment to students. Have a great sunny week.

Mike