May 28 Update

Happy May 28!

This is our last post for this blog.... 

What a crazy, yet fun year!  Think back to August when we were all thinking "what the heck?"  There were tears, questions, and lots of anxiety.  Look how far we've come!  We provided a great educational experience for our K-5 distance learners.  Kudos to each of you for taking this experience and making it a positive one!   It has been a huge pleasure to walk alongside you during this experience. 

Device Return:

Just a reminder that the device return is Thursday, June 3.  Please show up for your assigned times.  Please remind students to return the device, power cord, and any hotspots.  

We will need your help with calling families on Friday, June 4, who have not returned their equipment.  

Moving Stuff:

If you are moving to another site, please request boxes. Please box your stuff up and label with your last name, new site, and room number.  Once all your items, including your desk, are put together in the room, please let Wayne and your other site's custodian know you are moving.  

Drive Through:

Please consider joining us on Tuesday night for a "drive through" to say goodbye to our learners.   Please remember to make a sign with your grade level so families know where to pull up to.  Also, please help keep traffic moving through the drive through.

Have a great, long weekend - it's our kick off to summer!

-Justin

May 21 Update

Happy Friday, Distance Learning Team! 

I know we are tired.  It's been quite a year and we are ready for some summer relaxation and rejuvenation.  I completely get it.  We do need to keep "in check" these last two weeks.  You and your emotions control the space you are in.  Don't forget this.  Check your mindset and emotions every day.  Check where your energy is going - are you gaining it or draining it? 

Also, please remember that some students are not excited about school ending.   We are their only safety, security, and predictability.   We may need to re-teach many times over these last weeks.

Stay positive (make a positive communication home!) and in control of yourself.  Choose your energy wisely. 

Let's do this - let's finish strong.  

May 27 - National Sunscreen Day

Don't forget that next Thursday is a fun dress up day! Are you ready for shorts, sandals, and sunglasses?  Get your wardrobe ready and get your (work appropriate) summer gear on.  Prizes will be given to the most festive person. 

Last Day of Interventions:

Just a reminder that next Friday, May 28 is our last day for formal interventions (with Jennifer).

Moving Back to Your Site(s):

As we close out the year, you will be able to send your materials through school mail back to your site. You will want to request boxes (if you haven't). Also, mark the boxes with your name, the school to send to, and where they should go within the new school (example - "Justin Kiel to Wilson, room 5C). When you are all boxed up, please connect with Wayne Schultz (McKinley Custodian) and let the custodian know of the site you are returning to. The more communication, the more the items will return to their spot! :)

Teaching and Learning Summer Work:

Reserve the June dates for some summer work around literacy and Fountas and Pinnell. This is a great time to learn and develop our curriculum even more. Ann Mikkalson has sent out invites.

Upcoming Events:

May 26 - Staff COVID Testing in Health Office

May 26 - Character Day

May 27 - National Sunscreen Day!

May 28 - Last Day of Interventions 

May 28 - Happy Birthday, Suzanne Ross! 

May 31 - NO SCHOOL & Happy Birthday, Beth Filzen!

June 1- End of Year Drive Through, 5:30-6:30pm in drop off/pick up lane

June 2- Beach Day

June 2 - End of Year Drawing with Superintendent Elstad, 7:30am (link will be sent)

June 3 - DL Device Drop Off (students work on choice boards)

June 4 - Last Day of School (students work on choice boards)

June 7 - Teacher Workday & Staff Breakfast at 8am

It's going to be a warm one this weekend.  Stay cool - but find something to do for YOU!

-Justin

May 14 Update

Happy Friday, Distance Learning!

I think the picture says it all.... haha!

In all honesty, just a reminder to finish strong.   Our students only get their school year once - and many will be sad to see you (and their safe place) go away on June 4.  Let's remember to finish strong and stay focused on our scholars....

Teacher of the Year:

A huge congratulations to our 2021 Teacher of the Year, Mark Langlois.  Mark is a student-focused educator who is an expert at building community and making learning engaging.  Mark is also a wonderful colleague and leader at McKinley.  We are proud of you, Mark!  

Wilson Support:

Starting Monday, I will be helping support Wilson School as we close out the school year.  Please know that nothing changes here at McKinley because of this.  If you need me, you can still connect with me (or email me).  If you have discipline needs, please reach out to Steph or Selena.  We have Ann Mikkalson (Teaching and Learning Coordinator) and Justin Lang to assist.  This WILL be a great ending to a crazy year!  

Reminders:

Just a couple of end of the year reminders:

• Senior Walkthrough is June 2 at 9:10.  We will be outside in the drop off/pick up lane and they will walk through (if it rains, we will move inside).  
• 5th Grade Graduation (virtual) is Wednesday, June 2 at 1:00pm.  Please plan on watching from your classroom to support our learners. 
• End of the Year Drive Through is Tuesday, June 1 from 6-7pm.  If you are available, please join us.  This was a hit last year - many families (and staff!) felt like this was a great way to end the year.  This is for DL families only.  
• End of Year Activities (June 4) - a team is working on these activities and will share what our last day activities will look like.  

Building Weekly Newsletter:

Click here to access the building weekly newsletter

Have a great, relaxing weekend!

-Justin

May 7 Update

 Happy Friday, Distance Learning Team!

I hope you had a great week and felt the appreciation from all.  Each of you have the role of an educator - there is no role that is greater than this.  Please know that your time, energy, and passion does not go unnoticed.  You are amazing!   

Please take some time today - or this weekend - to watch the video below.  It's well worth the watch!  

Happy Mothers's Day:

Happy Mother's Day to all the present and future mother's in the building!  You wear many "hats" during our day - teacher, wife, friend, mother.   I am always in admiration of the way you balance this - all while staying focused on others.  

Take some time this weekend to focus on YOU and enjoy those around you.  

May 11 - National “Eat What YOU Want To” Day!

Just a reminder of an event next week!

Today’s the day to forget about the scale and getting into those summer clothes!  We will have El Ray Del Taco food truck here over the lunch hour.  You will need to place your orders (that day) with the food truck as there are so many options for meals and/or toppings.

Intervention End Date:

Virtual interventions will end on Friday, May 28 for all of our scholars.  

EID:

Just a reminder that EID is next Thursday and Friday.  We will have many of our scholars not at school, as they will be celebrating with their family and friends.  

We will be having some community members on our north soccer field during EID.   The group will be be there from 6-10am, as the mosque is under construction.  

Upcoming Events: 

May 10 - 3rd -5th Grade Climate Survey should be given 

May 11 - Staff Meeting, 2:35pm (CANCELLED) 

May 11 - "Eat What You Want To" Day - food truck here! 

May 12 - EID (we may have students absent who are celebrating)

May 12 - Happy Birthday, Jill Hukee! 

May 14 - CCT, 7:25am

May 19 - Wacky Day! 

Have a great weekend, everyone!

-Justin

April 30 Update

Happy Friday, Distance Learning Team!

Another great week of learning with our distance learners!  Don't forget to complete your classroom's "Learning Challenge" scoreboard today so I can calculate who is entered into the drawing next week.  After Friday at 5pm, I will not take any additional new scores.   

Closing out the School Year:

We are nearing that point - May.  Plants start to come alive, the sun and warmth are out, and we are ready for summer break.  I get it.  It's been a long year and you are counting down the time until you can "check out" and recharge your battery.  Even though we are entering May, we still have a solid month left of school -  24 days.  That doesn't sound like much.  When you think of what else is 24 hours - 132 hours, 7,920 minutes, etc.  you realize that we have a lot of instructional time left in our year.  Please make sure we are taking advantage of this - all while building relationships and creating memories for our learners.  Check your mindset every day, schedule more happy hours, go for a walk after work... whatever you need to do to make this an amazing ending for our learners!

Educator Appreciation Week:

Next week is a week to celebrate YOU!  Thank you for all that you do for our scholars.  Linked are some ways we plan to celebrate you next week! 

Upcoming Events:

May 3 - Red Carpet Event as you arrive for work! 

May 3 - Professional Learning Communities, 2:35pm

May 5 - Charcuterie Board Lunch 

May 7 - CCT, 7:25am

May 11 - Staff Meeting, 2:35pm

May 12 - EID (we may have students absent who are celebrating)

May 12 - Happy Birthday, Jill Hukee! 

May 13 & 14 - Justin out at the U of MN

May 14 - CCT, 7:25am

Have a GREAT, relaxing weekend!

-Justin

April 23 Update

 Hello, DL Staff! 

I know - you're tired.   We are tired and stressed.  We saw this above picture from a presenter - it speaks SO TRUE now.  Please continue to take care of YOU.  We need this - now more than ever.  

Jeffers Training:

Please see the note below from Tom Meagher.  Jeffers is a great resource with awesome PD - consider joining them! 

Upcoming Events:

April 27 - Staff Meeting, 2:35pm

May 3- Professional Learning Communities, 2:35pm

May 7 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

Have a great weekend!
-Justin

April 16 Update

Happy Friday!

Absences:

I am starting to see an increase in staff absences.  I understand things come up and you need to take time off.  However, please be on top of those planned absences that you know about.  I'm seeing those appear into AESOP a day before.  Please plan ahead for those absences.  Thank you! 

Last Day Countdown:

As we close out the year, please be aware of the "last day countdown" with students.  I understand students - and you - can be excited for the end of the year.  However, this isn't the case for all learners.  Some are fearful of losing the consistency, safety, and relationships of school.  Also, the countdown sends the message that we have to "serve" the time before summer.  I'm asking you not to engage in this, but instead focus on the instructional time we do have together.  

COVID Numbers - McKinley: 

I have heard from a few of you in regards to the COVID % at McKinley.  Please know that we are doing everything we can to help with social distancing and mitigating COVID.  You are doing great work - please keep this up!  The percentage is a weekly percentage (that can drastically change) that includes those who are positive, but also those at home with symptoms or those in quarantine for a close contact.  This week alone, we had many students who were home (getting tested) for symptoms that were similar to allergies.  To be preventative, we are asking those families to get tested.  Those numbers can skew our data.  Also, please know that we had reached almost 18% before we moved to distance learning.   We are in a great place  - because you are doing great things to help keep McKinley safe.  

Upcoming Events:

April 19 - Professional Learning Communities, 2:35pm

April 21 - Admin Professionals Day (Thank you Steph and Selena!)

April 23 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

April 27 - Staff Meeting, 2:35pm

May 3- Professional Learning Communities, 2:35pm

May 7 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

Have a GREAT weekend!

-Justin

April 9 Update

Happy Friday, Distance Learning Team!

Just a friendly reminder that I see you.  I see all the energy, time, and passion you bring to this year of change.  Keep trying.... we've got this. 

Office Coverage Next Week:

Steph and Selena are out next week; below is the coverage of our Main Office:

Monday - Justin Kiel

Tuesday - Theresa Caswell

Wednesday - Cheryl Summer

Thursday - Taylor Ethen (& Michelle Krell)

Friday - Steph is back

Please know that we will not be able to support all requests during this week, as we will be short-staffed.  Please be flexible during this time.   Also, please email Justin Kiel with any office-related requests (Steph is in Arizona and I want her to RELAX!). 

Also, I am out at the U of MN on Thursday and Friday.  Thursday, we have Michelle Krell covering.  Friday, Steph will be back and will work with Justin Lang and Libby Zeman for coverage.  

Thanks for your flexibility! 

Upcoming Events:

April 9 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

April 12 - Reading MCAs - 3rd Grade (AM) and 5th Grade (PM)

April 13 - Reading MCAs - 3rd Grade (AM and 5th Grade (PM)

April 13 - Staff Meeting, 2:30pm

April 15 & 16 - Justin out at U of MN Principals' Academy 

April 15 - Reading MCAs - 4th Grade (AM) 

April 16 - Reading MCAs - 4th Grade (AM)

April 16 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

April 19 - PLCs, 2:30pm

Have a great, relaxing weekend!

-Justin

April 1 Update

Happy "Friday"! And, happy April!  

The "Depth" of Positive Relationships:

This is an area teachers are always proud of - we build relationships with students.  I think teachers are naturals at getting to know (and love) students.  

Linked is an article on building relationships and what brain science says.  I know, I lost you when I said "brain science".  This article is written in a very practitioner-friendly way - very easy to read. 

Here's my challenge for you - to read the article and truly reflect on the depth of relationship(s) and the ways you build these relationships.  The more I am reading around this area (and work at the U of MN), the more I am realizing the different levels of relationships.  We can do morning meetings and have smiles, high fives, and happiness in a classroom.  And, those things are great!  When you look at the "depth", is that a deep connection? Or, are students truly feeling safe (especially intellectually safe), valued, and feeling they can question/comment/provide feedback honestly?  That's a whole new level of relationship.  Take some time to read the below article and think on relationships in your classroom.....

Virtual Engagement Isn't Impossible:

Linked is an article on ways to increase engagement in a virtual setting - well worth a skim!  

Upcoming Events:

April 2- NO SCHOOL! 

April 5 - Lockdown Practice - 1:00pm (you do not need to participate)

April 5 - DL MCA Testing Discussion, 2:00pm (rescheduled)

April 5 - PLCs, 2:30pm

April 8 & 9 - Justin out at Principal's Academy

April 9 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

April 12 - Reading MCAs - 3rd Grade (AM) and 5th Grade (PM)

April 13 - Reading MCAs - 3rd Grade (AM and 5th Grade (PM)

April 13 - Staff Meeting, 2:30pm

April 15 - Reading MCAs - 4th Grade (AM) 

April 16 - Reading MCAs - 4th Grade (AM)

April 16 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

April 19 - PLCs, 2:30pm

Have a great weekend - it's going to be BEAUTIFUL out! 

-Justin

March 19 Update

Happy Spring Break! 

We've made it!  I hope you are all going to find some relaxation, rejuvenation, and time with those you love!  Turn everything off and enjoy your time away - you've earned it!  

Before You Leave:

Please make sure your room is cleaned up, fridges are unplugged and clean, and that all things are put away.  There will be some cleaning over break - so please have your room/office ready for this. 

International Day of Fun at Work 2021:

Thanks for a great day on Thursday!  The creativity, positive energy, and teamwork is always a highlight from this day.  We will announce winners when you come back from break! 

Transition Day - March 29:

Don't forget about our transition day when we return on March 29. A huge thank you to the team who planned this exciting day.  Don't forget, this is a day to regulate students, rebuild relationships, and re-establish routines.  It's a great day to revisit things and get student voice in the expectations and learning!  

Learning Loss:

For the past year, we've been experiencing COVID-19 and the changes to schooling - distance learning, social distancing, contact tracing, etc.  But, what about the positives from this experience - can you think of any?  Resilience, innovation, and true care for our scholars come to mind.  This last year has really changed the way I think about education.  

One thing I've been hearing lately is the term "learning loss".  Whether it's a curriculum resource, legislators, or social media, this term has become a widely used phrase.  I want to caution us on the use of this term.  When we use "learning loss", there are a few things that this is indicating.   First, it's indicating that no learning has occurred for the last year.  We know this is absolutely not true.  Learning may look differently, but it was happening.  In fact, I think students were learning new skills that we would have never taught if this had not happened.  Second, this term puts ownership and blame on the learner.  We are saying that the learner did something to "lose" what we taught him/her.  Again, absolutely not true. 

I caution you in using the term "learning loss" when it comes to this pandemic and experience.  We may not be in the same spot with curriculum - and learners may still have pre-requisites to learn.  However, we know that learning - possibly learning of NEW skills - has occurred!  

Upcoming Events:

March 29 - Transition Day/Welcome Back!  

March 30 - Happy Birthday, Dani Rypka!

April 1 - DL MCA Testing Discussion, 2:30pm

April 2- NO SCHOOL! 

April 5 - Lockdown Practice - 9am (you do not need to participate)

April 5 - PLCs, 2:30pm

April 8 & 9 - Justin out at Principal's Academy

April 9 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

April 13 - Staff Meeting, 2:30pm

I hope you find some time away to "recharge your batteries"!  We will come back, stronger than ever, and ready for 4th quarter!

-Justin

March 12 Update

Happy Friday, Distance Learning Team!

Just a reminder - next Thursday is our rescheduled International Fun Day at Work!  I hope you are planning your outfit(s) and gearing up for a great day of fun!  

Upcoming Dates:
March 15 - Happy Birthday, Annette Warner!

March 15 - PLCs, 2:35pm

March 17 - Staff COVID testing

March 18 - International Fun Day at Work (rescheduled) - start thinking of your outfit(s)! 

March 18 - End of 3rd Quarter

March 19 - NO SCHOOL (Teacher Workday)

March 22- 26 NO SCHOOL/Spring Break! 

March 29 - Transition Day!

March 29 - Happy Birthday, Angela Armstrong!

March 30 - Happy Birthday, Dani Rypka! 

April 2- NO SCHOOL! 

Have a great weekend, everyone!

-Justin

March 5 Update

Happy Friday, Distance Learning Team!

I saw this on Twitter this week - what a great reminder of the way we talk about students.  I think this is an area we can continue to self-reflect and grow around; lately, I've heard some of our old phrases coming back into existence.  When we refer to students as "low group", or other deficit terms, we change our mindset and indirectly lower our expectations.  Continue to challenge yourself - and your team - to the way we are talking about our scholars.  

K-5 Distance Learning Teacher Posting:

As you know, we are planning to offer a K-5 Distance Learning School (pending MDE approval).  The position has been posted (internally) - if you are interested, please apply!   Click here to see the posting!

Upcoming Events:

March 9 - Staff Meeting, 2:35pm

March 10 - Happy Birthday, Steph Stolp!

March 12 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

March 15 - Happy Birthday, Annette Warner!

March 15 - PLCs, 2:35pm

March 17 - Staff COVID testing

March 18 - International Fun Day at Work (rescheduled) - start thinking of your outfit(s)! 

March 18 - End of 3rd Quarter

March 19 - NO SCHOOL (Teacher Workday)

March 22- 26 NO SCHOOL/Spring Break! 

Have a great weekend and take some time for YOU!

-Justin

February 26 Update

Happy Friday! 

Exhausted Educator:

Let's face it, we know February is a hard time for educators.  And, people in general.  And, this year, we top February off with a pandemic.  I can feel the vibe - people, including myself, are exhausted.  

Please remember - it's alright to acknowledge you are exhausted.  It's also alright to take some time for you.  Go on a walk, do something you enjoy, call a friend who makes you laugh.  Heck, you might even do this mid-day!   

Also, read the quote below.  You are making a difference.  Our students feel a connection, care, and love.  And, that connection, care, and love can be for your colleagues, too.  We can find ourselves lost in the "to do list" and forget that we are making a difference - EVERY SINGLE DAY.  

They're Too Young to Talk About Race:

A huge thank you to Danielle Nystrom (Special Ed Teacher at McKinley) for sharing the image below...

As educators, we find ourselves in the trap of "They are too young to talk about race..." or "It's elementary, we teach love and don't see skin color."  This silence actually perpetuates racism.  We continue to send the message that race/skin color is something that should be silent and is not discussed.  I challenge you to monitor this over the next week - how many times could a conversation lead into race that you avoid (for whatever reason).   When this happens, do some self-reflection - why did you not facilitate the conversation?  

International Fun Day at Work (rescheduled): 
We are excited to announce our rescheduled 2021 International Fun Day at Work!  Below are some documents regarding this fun day.  Start brainstorming your dress and team!  :)
International Fun Day at Work Document
Order Form (Evan's Eatery Food Truck)

Upcoming Events:

March 1 - Professional Learning Community, 2:35pm

March 3- Staff COVID Testing

March 4 - MCA Test Monitor Training (3-5th Grade), 2-2:45pm (VIRTUAL)

March 5 - Child Collaboration Team Meeting, 7:25am

March 5 - 5th Grade Concerns Meeting, 12:10pm (rescheduled)

March 9 - Staff Meeting, 2:35pm

March 10 - Happy Birthday, Steph Stolp!

March 12 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

March 15 - Happy Birthday, Annette Warner!

March 15 - PLCs, 2:35pm

March 17 - Staff COVID testing

March 18 - International Fun Day at Work (rescheduled) - start thinking of your outfit(s)! 

March 18 - End of 3rd Quarter

March 19 - NO SCHOOL (Teacher Workday)

March 22- 26 NO SCHOOL/Spring Break! 

February 19 Update

Happy Friday!

I hope you had a great week of learning and conferences!  I know this can be a long week, but it's a great way to connect with families and celebrate all the learning that has happened this year!  

Remember Your Why!  

If you find yourself having one of those "yuck" or "what am I doing? days, take some time and think back to your why - this will guide you!  

MCA Testing - Online:

We do have to offer MCA testing for our distance learners - in person (there is no virtual option).  We will be sending a letter to families in the next week to explain this.  Students will have an assigned day and time to report to the Melanie Nelson Learning Zone (Vine Street) to do their testing.  The teacher(s) will be there to help monitor this testing.  We will be offering busing and lunch to students on this date/time.  Again, more information to come.  We are meeting on March 4 (2-2:45pm) with 3-5th grade teachers to discuss testing.  

International Fun Day at Work (rescheduled): 
We are excited to announce our rescheduled 2021 International Fun Day at Work!  Below are some documents regarding this fun day.  Start brainstorming your dress and team!  :)
International Fun Day at Work Document
Order Form (Evan's Eatery Food Truck)

Upcoming Events:

February 22 - Distance Learning All School Assembly, 1:30pm

February 23 - Staff Meeting, 2:35pm 

February 24 - Lockdown Practice (1:00pm) - you do not need to participate

February 25 - Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd Grade Concerns Meeting with Ann (Justin at U of MN)

February 26 - 3rd, 4th, and 5th Grade Concerns Agenda with Ann (Justin at U of MN)

February 26 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

March 1 - Professional Learning Community, 2:35pm

March 4 - MCA Test Monitor Training (3-5th Grade), 2-2:45pm

March 5 - Child Collaboration Team Meeting, 7:25am

Have a great weekend!

-Justin

February 12 Update

Happy Friday, Distance Learning Team!

We've had another great week of relationships and learning!  

Productive Struggle:

Linked is an article on "Productive Struggle is a Learner's Sweet Spot".   This article gives more background - and some examples - of what productive struggle looks like in a classroom.  As we have been learning, our students need to engage in productive struggle to truly grow, reflect, have cognitive conflict, and hit that "eureka moment".  

Also, if you haven't already, take some time to watch the video below on the "Learning Pit.  Well worth the watch -  this is something we will continue to explore.

Positive Recognition:

As you know, we all like to hear when things are going well.   We love to hear feedback and positive recognition - whether you are a child or an adult.  Don't forget about this as we work with our students.  We have the "High Five slips" to give to students virtually.   We also don't want to overlook the power of just a call home to thank/congratulate/appreciate a student.   If you have worked with me, you know this story - when I first started in this job, I called the mother of a student who had been struggling with behaviors.  I was calling all the time about negative behavior.  One day, the student had an amazing day and it hit me - why would I not call home on this, too?  I picked up the phone, called his mom, and eventually said, "Hello, are you there?".  There was a long silence and she responded, "Yes".  I could tell she was crying.   That moment changed me - and reminded me that we need to celebrate the positives, too.  

Schoolwide Assembly:

We will do our first schoolwide assembly on Monday, February 22nd from 1:30-2:00pm.  A link will be sent as we get closer (it will be a Youtube Live link).  Please don't forget to send me a class picture, as well as any talent that students have sent you.  Also, we will be drawing some High Five slips live, so get those in, too!  

Upcoming Events:

February 15 - PLCs, 2:30-3:30pm

February 16 - Family-Teacher Conferences (virtual), 3-7pm;  dinner provided by McKinley PTO for those who signed up! 

February 18 - Family-Teacher Conferences (virtual), 3-7pm

February 19 - NO SCHOOL: Family-Teacher Conferences, 7:40-12:00pm

February 22 - Distance Learning All School Assembly, 1:30pm

February 23 - Staff Meeting, 2:35pm 

February 24 - Lockdown Practice (1:00pm) - you do not need to participate

Have a great Valentine's weekend - stay warm!

-Justin

February 5 Update

Happy Friday, Distance Learning Team!

Stop what you are doing and read this picture below.   After you are done, take a deep breath and remind yourself that you are ENOUGH.  In life (and this work) we can get caught up on everything we aren't doing.  Take a few minutes this morning to reflect and celebrate that you are enough and are appreciated!  

Conferences:

We have family-teacher conferences coming soon (note it's "family" and not "parent" - many of our families live with a non-parent who supports their learning).  With conferences coming, take some time at your team to discuss your format for conferences.  As you do this, think about what information, message, or mindset you would want if you were in the seat of a family member.  We can often spend time discussing the report card- but does this tell us enough?  Does this tell us about the student as a person?  Does this tell us about any goal setting you have done?  Student strengths?  

I challenge you to think through this process and challenge yourself.  Think about the last time you were at the doctor - were you more engaged and respected when the doctor listened to you?  Talked to you as a human?  Or, when they just read your chart to you?  Family-Teacher conferences are another great opportunity to build meaningful partnerships.  

Staffing for 21-22:

I've had some questions come up regarding staffing for next year.  The plan is to return you to your original site and position.  We know that each year, staffing is considered and this is not a 100% guarantee.   Like I said, we want to return people to their original positions - however, just like any other year, there is a small chance your assignment could change.   If you want your voice in this process, you can complete a letter for Chris Picha and your home principal requesting your position/assignment for next year.   If you have questions or want more information, come down and talk to me.  

Upcoming Events:

February 9 - Staff Meeting, 2:35pm

February 12 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

February 15 - PLCs, 2:30-3:30pm

February 16 - Family-Teacher Conferences (virtual), 3-7pm;  dinner provided by McKinley PTO for those who signed up! 

February 18 - Family-Teacher Conferences (virtual), 3-7pm

February 19 - NO SCHOOL: Family-Teacher Conferences, 7:40-12:00pm

Have a great weekend - stay warm!

-Justin

January 29 Update

Happy Friday!

I hope you've had a great week of learning and relationships with our students!  

First-Person Language: 

Karen Thurnau shared a video that her daughter made to share about person-first language (thanks Karen and Annie!).  We talked yesterday about how when we put the person first in our language, we can see their identity as a person and not a label.  Specifically, yesterday we talked about services received.  For example, you would say a student who receives EL services.  This is also true when we talk about where a student is at in their learning.  Instead of saying, this is a "low student," try saying, this is a "student that is working on ____". When we talk about kids as kids first, that is going to affect our belief in them, which will affect our expectations for them, which affects what they will achieve.  Let's continue to hold each other accountable for shaping this language.  

Upcoming Events:

February 1 - Black History Month begins!

February 1- PLCs, 2:30pm

February 3-  Staff COVID testing available

February 5 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

February 9 - Staff Meeting, 2:35pm

February 12 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

Have a great weekend!

-Justin

January 22 Update

Happy Friday, Distance Learning Team!

The above quote is so true.  I would add staff to this, too.  Think about the past year. We've learned, grown, cried, and been pushed to do different things.  We continue to show up, even with these challenges.  That is true hope.  Keep being that hope dealer!  

February Conferences:

February conferences are approaching.  These are virtual and a great time for a formal conversation with a family about a student's progress.  Report cards are complete - and a great reference for families regarding a student's progress.  I'm asking you to think through what conferences will your format will look like.  What information will you share?  Will the student do any self-reflection and sharing?  

I know this could be a time to go over report cards.  I think this is important information, don't get me wrong!  I would like us to think about how else we can share learning.   I always think of things in an analogy manner - if you were to go to the doctor, they would share your results but also talk to you about your overall progress and your course of action.  I think we need to spend time on strengths, but also be brutally honest with families about where their child is at with the learning and what needs to happen next.   You have strong relationships with families - this can be done in a caring, compassionate way.  

Start doing some brainstorming - how will you format your conferences to highlight strengths, as well as areas of opportunity?  

Creating an Inviting Virtual Math Classroom:

Are you looking for ways to deepen your math block - including ways to develop student thinking, routines, and collaboration?  Check out this article!   Click here to read! 

Lighting Issues:

If you are experiencing any lighting control issues in your rooms, please email Orrie Anthony (district electrician) with a description of the problem(s) ASAP so I can address them individually.  

Upcoming Events:

January 26 - Staff Meeting, 2:35pm

January 28 - Concerns Meeting - K, 1, and 2nd Grade

January 29 - Concerns Meeting - 3, 4, and 5th Grade

January 29 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

February 1 - Black History Month begins!

February 1- PLCs, 2:30pm

February 3-  Staff COVID testing available

February 5 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

Have a great weekend!  I hear there's snow on the way!

Justin

Jan 15 Update

Happy Snow Day Distance Learning Day!

Flexibility is really the name of this game - isn't it?   I hope you bundled in and ready for an exciting day!

Just a reminder - Monday is our MLK/Professional Learning Day.  Please make sure you know your schedule for the day. 

I thought you'd appreciate the humor below...

February Conferences:

February conferences are virtual.  Steph and Selena are working to set this up - we will let you know when PTCFast goes live.  More to come! 

Reading - The Pandemic Has Revealed What Really Matters in Education:

Below is a link to an article - it's a great read about the positive things that this pandemic has helped remind us about education.  Take some time to read through it - we will be doing some follow-up work around this in the near future!   https://www.edsurge.com/news/2021-01-06-the-pandemic-has-revealed-what-really-matters-in-education-spoiler-it-s-not-tests

Staff Absences:

Please remember the following regarding staff absences:

Unexpected emergency or sick overnight (and you can't teach) - Please put the absence into AESOP (with no sub required) and email Justin.  We will check to see if our interns are available; if they are not, we will look for coverage.  

Planned Absence - we are recording lessons and posting work into Google Classroom.  Put your absence into AESOP with no sub required.

As always, feel free to reach out if you plan to be gone - I can walk you through what needs to happen.  

Upcoming Events:

January 15 - End of 2nd Quarter

January 17 - Happy Birthday Julie Bauer! 

January 18 - NO SCHOOL (PD Day); Martin Luther King, Jr Day

January 19 - NO SCHOOL (Teacher Workday)

January 20 - Happy Birthday, Kim Lauwers!

January 20 - Grading Window closes at 8am

January 21 - Report cards will be mailed home (we may need help with this)

January 22 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

Have a great weekend! 

-Justin

January 8 Update

Happy Friday! 

Welcome Back!  I hope you have a productive transition day today!

Upgrade - AESOP:

We’ve upgraded our Absence Management system to Frontline Education’s Insights Platform.  If you haven’t already logged into your account, you will receive a prompt to create a Frontline ID and Password the next time you login.

Tips for creating your new Frontline ID:

• Log into Absence Management (AESOP) using your old login credentials.  Once you click "login" you will be asked to create your new account.  
• Your new username must contain 1 alphabet character and at least 4 total characters. The password must have 1 alphabet character, 8 total characters, and 1 number or special character.   
• Once you create your new Frontline ID, an email will be sent to your school email to verify the new account that you created. Please check your email to verify your account.
• If you receive an error message that says "link has expired" when verifying your account, close down your internet browser and try logging in again at a later time.  The system takes some time to get your accounts linked. 

Creating your new Frontline ID will allow you to login to all Frontline programs.  You should see the different programs/apps in the upper left hand corner when you click the dropdown under Absence Management.

Now Accepting 761 Foundation Grant Applications
Deadline: January 15

Every spring, the 761 Foundation awards approximately $100,000 in mini-grants to Owatonna Public Schools teachers and principals. Grants are awarded based on the following criteria:

1. Benefits a large number of students.

2. Meets an important need, which is not likely to be funded in other ways.

3. Maximizes good cost to benefit ratio.

4. Shows creativity and innovation.

5. Needed funds to continue a past approved project.

Click here for the grant application

Application deadline: January 15

• Please itemize and prioritize requests that include multiple items/expenses.

• Applicants must discuss the feasibility and implementation of the proposal with the appropriate building administrator. Comments and a signature from the building administrator must be included on the application.

• Projects that include the purchase of technology also require a technology request form, which can be found at the end of the grant application.

• No incomplete or late applications will be accepted.

Note: this is an electronic application and approval process. After clicking the submit button on the application form, your administrator/supervisor will receive an email to review, comment on, and sign your grant application.

Questions about the grant application process can be directed to Sarah Hoffman, ext. 8610.

Upcoming Events:

January 12  - Staff Meeting, 2:35pm

January 13 - Resource Pick Up Day (please be at main door during your time)

January 14 & 15 - Justin at U of MN (virtual; here in building but in class)

January 15 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

January 15 - End of 2nd Quarter

January 18 - NO SCHOOL (PD Day); Martin Luther King, Jr Day

January 19 - NO SCHOOL (Teacher Workday)

January 20 - Happy Birthday, Kim Lauwers!

January 20 - Grading Window closes at 8am

January 21 - Report cards will be mailed home (we may need help with this)

January 22 - Child Collaboration Team, 7:25am

Have a great weekend!  

-Justin