March 13, 2009

Schedule for Friday - First thing tomorrow morning, we will announce names (send out sheets to each teacher) of students who have completed all their work over the past three weeks. These students should report to the gym at 12:30 pm for a special Responsible Students Assembly. We will draw two students from each grade level to 'compete' against myself and a staff member in u-Dance (possibly Rock Band at the 4th grade?). I imagine the assembly will last 25-30 minutes so students will return to class before 1:00 pm. Teachers may use the classroom time for remaining students how you choose but please ensure it is academic (reading, writing, math facts, etc.). Prior to receiving this week's slips from teachers, we have 61 fourth graders and 35 fifth graders qualifying. If combining classes so a couple teachers can attend the assembly, please finalize after school today.

As for staff schedule tomorrow, all staff may leave after 2:30 pm (teachers must have grades done prior to leaving). Para educators who leave at 1:30 pm should reflect 1 hour deduct on your time sheet. If you stay until 2:30, you may document a full day. Questions - see me.

Spring Break - Although the weather outside does not indicate spring, a needed break has arrived. Please find the time to reconnect with family and friends and get the needed rest you deserve. We will come back to less than 9 weeks of instruction which we all know will fly by us in a blink of an eye!

PTO Carnival - Last week, I strongly encouraged staff to put the date (May 8th) on your calendar and plan on helping in some way. PTO and administration believes the success of the carnival is so important, we will be distributing PTO dollars next fall based on your assistance with the carnival. Last spring was a huge success and if we hope to maintain the level of PTO funding with declining general budget dollars, we need every one's help. A sign-up will be coming out after Spring Break and PTO will be looking for help before, during and after so there will be plenty of opportunity to help in some way or another.

Thank you!! - I really appreciate your patience with my schedule this week. You have been understanding with my hours and it is a good feeling knowing everyone steps up when another staff member is in need. I know there are several post observations needed to complete and we will get those done immediately following spring break!

Dates to Note
March 23
- Return from Spring Break!
- 2:55 Assembly: Linn's class present PowerPoints
- PLC Team mtgs
- School Board mtg @ Webster (6 pm)
March 24
- After School Math
March 25
- Early Out; Building PLC work
- Barry leaves for TESOL Conference (4 pm)
March 26
- Smoking Kills presentations begin
- Barry at TESOL (Eldrigde covers at WIS all day)
March 27
- Smoking Kills presentations
- Barry at TESOL