STATIC BUILDING RESOURCES (HERE EACH WEEK)
Teacher Professional Development Unit (PDU) Tracking
Teachers, the LINK TO THIS TRACKING PDU SHEET – All staff, please feel free to access this to help track your professional development units (PDU’s) when it’s time to renew licensures. This is here to help you easily compile the hours you need to report when processing renewal.
Student Attendance Concerns Reporting
Teachers, please remember to report student attendance concerns HERE. Our front office team will follow up with families. Thanks!
Meeting Agendas and Notes from this past week:
LINK TO HOWARD SHARED GOOGLE DRIVE HERE – To streamline access of information. The link to our Howard shared Google drive will remain here as a static feature on the blog each week. In this drive is a folder titled, ‘Meetings/Teams,’ which houses all the important meeting agendas and notes from various teams past and present. This week’s meetings included the following below. Please go to their respective team folders within the ‘Meetings/Teams’ folder to review the notes. Thanks!
- Meetings this past week, May 13th-17th, included:
- PBIS Meeting, 5/14
- Certified Early Release, 5/15 – Slide Deck
PTO Request for Funds
Teachers, our PTO wants to help you and your students! If you have a particular lesson, unit, or project you want to enrich and could use some additional funds to fulfill it, please fill out the request form from the PTO → LINK TO FORM! It is SUPER rare that the PTO denies funds to teachers, so please access this resource. The PTO appreciates you!
ARTSPARK (LANE ARTS COUNCIL) AND OSAS TESTING SCHEDULES (Email, 4/23):
Here is the LINK TO THE ARTSPARK AND OSAS TESTING SCHEDULES. A BIG THANK YOU to Jennifer Dillon and Cyria Wisner for putting this schedule together! It was no easy feat! If you have questions, please let us know. We will have a one-page reference of the schedule in the near future. Thanks!
Monday Morning Announcements this Week, May 20-24:
SPECIAL NOTE THIS WEEK: The family of a particular student requested a special shout-out that included the Road Runner to boost our student’s spirits after undergoing a complicated surgery. This family request was happily honored.
STAFFING UPDATES:
We have some updates to announce in regards to certified staffing for next year!
As communicated Friday, LUPE CALLIHAN, is transitioning to 4th grade for next year. That email also inquired if there was anyone interested in teaching 5th grade next year.
Both KERRI SORIERO and BRYAN VARGA expressed interest in moving to 5th grade next year, and I’m happy to report I’m granting the request! Please join me in congratulating them on their transitions!
As a result of this, CRYSTAL THOMAS, will be transitioning to Kerri’s 3rd grade position instead of fifth grade next fall. She expressed interest in making this move after being involuntary moved to 5th grade as a result of the closed kindergarten section. Please join me congratulating Crystal on her transition as well!
NOAH NEUHAUS has communicated he is resigning at the end of this school year. He will be relocating to California with his wife in pursuit of exciting new opportunities. Please join me in thanking Noah for his service to Howard, and congratulating him on his new endeavors! We will be posting for Noah’s 5.5 hour EA position as soon as possible. For next year, these hours will be utilized to support first grade instruction, as well as provide supervision for recesses. Please encourage interested candidates to apply!
Our STUDENT SUCCESS COORDINATOR position is scheduled to close soon. I will begin screening candidates for that position, and hopefully we will hold interviews soon. Our PRESCHOOL PROMISE LEAD TEACHER and FOURTH GRADE VACANT TEACHER positions should post soon. Please encourage interested candidates to apply!
TIMELINE AND TOPICS FOR END-OF-YEAR MEETINGS
Here is the list of remaining meetings this year, and the proposed agenda and action items. Please review the list and let me know if you believe there is anything pressing that needs to be addressed before the end of the year. I am trying to limit meeting and honor everyone’s time as much as possible. Thanks!
Tuesday, 21st CERTIFIED – TBD:
- SCIP updates?
- Leadership positions for next year (updates to district plan?) Feedback on positions and teams this year
- Meeting Schedule input for next year
Wednesday, 22nd CLASSIFIED Staff Meeting
Wednesday, 29th CERTIFIED PD Create Class Lists
Tuesday, JUNE 4th CERTIFIED: Spring 100% data meetings
Wednesday, 5th ALL STAFF (OPTIONAL):
- Building schedule drafts review and input
- Calendar for next year
- Certified Continue Class Lists if not at optional meeting
Wednesday, 12th: NO MEETINGS (Finalize Class Lists)
Some Exciting SCIP Data to Celebrate!
We have done well raising the bar in regards to our focal groups identified in our School Continuous Improvement Plan (SCIP) for both major behavior referrals and reading instruction (as measured by winter EasyCBM benchmark data). It was interesting to note the increase in MINOR referrals, particularly among our white students (see below). HERE IS A LINK TO THE SCIP.
HERE IS A LINK TO SPREADSHEET DATA pulled from Synergy, Hoonuit and SWIS used to calculate the comparisons outlined below. Please note, there is a slight discrepancy in data from all three of these systems. The data on the TOP IN GREEN is THIS YEAR (23-24), and the data on the BOTTOM IN RED is LAST YEAR. THERE ARE AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT! GREAT WORK!
While there has been a recent delay of major referral data entry, it is only fairly recent and the data comparison should be relatively correct as the data pulled for the SCIP last year was run in April. Running the data in mid-May this year, and running the comparison should be accurate.
BEHAVIOR:
2023-2024
2022-2023
Behavioral Referrals (% of students with 1 or more major referrals): Our data was relatively consistent across racial groups, but there’s a clear gender disparity in major referrals. Major referral data improved from 2022-23 to 2023-24.
- Overall: 5% of females and 20% of males have one or more major referrals
- Overall: 8% of females and 18% of males have one or more major referrals
- White Females: 5%, White Males: 18%
- 8/156 white females. 34/190 white males
- White Females: 8%, White Males: 18%
- Hispanic Females: 8%, Hispanic Males: 17%
- 4/53 Hispanic Females. 8/47 Hispanic Males.
- Hispanic Females: 7%, Hispanic Males: 20%
- Multi-Racial Females: 2%, Multi-Racial Males: 17%
- 1/43 Multi-Racial Females. 6/36 Multi-Racial Males
- Multi-Racial Females: 10%, Multi-Racial Males: 21%
- Native American Males: 0% Native American Females: 0%
- 3 males enrolled. 2 females enrolled.
- Native American Males: 17% (only 1 female enrolled)
SWIS Referral Data (1 or more majors and/or minors)
- 57% of McKinney Vento students (11 of 19 students)
- 65% of McKinney Vento students (15 of 23 students)
- 47% of 504 students (9 of 19)
- 50% of 504 students (8 of 16 students)
- Significant difference (increase) in white students (43% – 150/346) compared to students of color (26%), multi-racial students (27%), historically underserved (33%), Hispanic (27%) as compared to last year, 2022-2023 (below).
- Little difference in white students (27%) compared to students of color (25%), multi-racial students (22%), historically underserved (28%), Hispanic (29%)
In short, major referrals mainly decreased or maintained, while minor referrals increased. Minor referrals should be an area of focus for next year, 2024-25.
READING Data from Hoonuit (imported from EasyCBM).
2023-2024
2022-2023
- Winter ‘23-’24 EasyCBM Reading Risk Levels (Low Risk = likely reading at grade level)
-
- 56% of all students & 56% of white students scored in the “Low Risk” category
- 75% of Black students scored “Low Risk”
- 49% of Hispanic students scored “Low Risk”
- 30% of SPED and 43% ELL students scored “Low Risk”
- Winter ‘22-’23 EasyCBM Reading Risk Levels (Low Risk = likely reading at grade level)
-
- 50% of all students & 50% of white students scored in the “Low Risk” category
- 42% of Black students scored “Low Risk”
- 34% of Hispanic students scored “Low Risk”
- 30% of SPED and ELL students scored “Low Risk”
This is great, steady improvement! It will be exciting to see the spring data!
4J SCHOOL CLIMATE SURVEY:
The 4J Elementary School Climate Survey is now open. It is the same as the one we used last year, which took on average 6 minutes to complete. Please have students complete it before the end of May.
These are the links. I’ve also included the QR CODES LINKED HERE as well.
* English: http://www.surveymonkey.com/r/4jclimateelementary
* Spanish: http://www.surveymonkey.com/r/4jambienteprimaria
Thanks.
BEHAVIOR DISCIPLINE MATRIX WEEKLY DRILL DOWN
This week, we are focussing on the specific behaviors listed on page SEVEN (8) of our district’s Discipline Matrix document LINKED HERE. Examples to responses to these behaviors are linked in the supporting documents. As always, focusing on our tier 1 PBIS supports, including our curriculum resources (Second Steps) and making ample time for morning meetings involving relationship building and class discussions help mitigate these behaviors.
ASSET-BASED APPROACH TO EDUCATION:
As we approach the process of creating class lists in the coming weeks, it’s important to remember all the positive attributes our students possess. An asset-based approach to education, also known as strengths-based teaching, focuses on the strengths and potential of students, rather than what they lack. This approach is a response to the deficit-based models of education that used to be the norm. Asset-based teaching considers students’ unique strengths and differences as resources that can help them meet learning goals. For example, faculty might consider students’ cultural background, relationships, sense of community, language practices, and diversity of thought. This approach aims to create lifelong learners who are grounded in their education and knowledge, and more confident in developing themselves. Research also shows that the asset-based model can help students transition into higher education more easily.
An asset-based approach can help create an equitable environment that enriches the learning experience for all students. It contrasts with the more common deficit-based style of teaching, which highlights students’ inadequacies.
We will be approaching our class building for this next year from an asset-based approach. In this coming week, be compiling positive information about students to bring to our Wednesday, May 29th early release time. This can include what skills the students has, positive peer connections (good friends), affinity groups, interests, etc. Let’s have these in the forefronts of our minds before considering other factors that may been interpreted as deficits.
HERE IS A LINK TO MORE ABOUT ASSET-BASED LANGUAGE.
FINAL LIBRARY CHECKOUTS AND RETURN DATES:
Schedule for end of year in library:
- May 20-24 (next week): last week for students to check out books
- May 28-31 (week of Memorial Day): books get returned. All library sessions WILL run this week.
- June: No library lessons or checkout sessions; students stay with you. ***Library inventory***
- Teacher checkouts: Return your library checkouts by June 10
Please let us know if a student, small group, or your class is working on a special project so we are aware.
In June, to fill those lesson/checkout times, we can loan you (if you let us know ahead of time)*:
- A set of picture books to read to your class
- Board games, card games, STEM-related magnetic building blocks, marble runs (can be used in Story Cove or your classroom)
- the Story Cove – use the giant building blocks
- Makerspace books (origami, escape room, optical illusions…) to have in your class.
*Notes: Any loaned items may need to be returned after your class period so they’re available to other classes. Books may be dependent on where we are in the inventory process. Please reserve with us (by email) if you want to use the Story Cove.
FINAL INSTRUCTION DAY FOR ELD:
I can’t quite believe the end of the year is coming so fast. (Well, on some days I do!)
Usually we pause ELD classes for the year at the beginning of June, so our students can enjoy all your special activities, and so we can take care of paperwork. This year, all 4j ELD teachers will be holding conferences at the end of the year as well. The last day of ELD classes will be Friday, May 24th.
I’ll be meeting with families from 8-4, and on Zoom in the evenings as needed. I will do my best to maintain my usual Howard schedule, especially my availability for crossing guard. However, since I need to meet with families at my other school as well, I may sometimes need to adjust schedules.
Please let me know if you have concerns or accomplishments you’d like me to share with specific families.
FINAL INSTRUCTION DAYS AND TIMELINE FOR TITLE 1:
Title will also be winding things down as the school year nears its end. We have important dates for you!
June 4: Last Day of Title Groups
June 7: Title Updates prepared and hopefully delivered to you
June 10: BOOK GIVEAWAY! (*This will be in Room 26 this year)
June 11: BOOK GIVEAWAY! (**There will be a schedule to follow when we get closer to the day).
Reminder: When To Send Students to the Health Room (Eden email, 5/14)
Please don’t send kids to the health room that simply say “I don’t feel well.” Most of the time, these students should stay in class and are just looking for a break. The health room is for students who are vomiting, bleeding, have a head injury, or otherwise NEED to see a nurse. If they are just looking for a break, please give them a break in your classroom or send them to the nest. It would help a lot if you could ask some basic triage questions before sending students to the health room (have you eaten today? do you need to use the bathroom? do you need a break?)
I’m reattaching this poster that I shared earlier in the school year. Feel free to print it out and put it on the wall in your classroom. As much as we actually love seeing kids in the health room for first aid, John and I need to be available for things like diabetic emergencies, seizures, falls off the play structure, etc. Plus, when John and I aren’t there, you’re actually sending kids to Becky and Elizabeth to care for (shout out, thank you both!!)
LINK TO HEALTH ROOM POSTER HERE
Thanks for your help!
DISTRICT INFORMATION
Science: Packing & Storing Your Kits – Classroom Teachers
Guidelines on Packing up Kits and Resupplying Kits before Break:
- Request materials for restocking kits sooner than later using the Materials Request form and BEFORE you pack it away.
- Here is the link to order materials >>> Materials Request Form. You can also always find the link on the Science HUB and in my email signature!
- Inventory Sheets should be located in drawer #1 and in the “FOSS Unit Planning Tools and Resources” links for each module on the Science HUB
- If you have a parent or volunteer packing up your kit, please take the time to make sure they know how to inventory and put things away. It will save you time in the long run.
- Heads Up! Kits that are stored outside of the classroom often get mixed up and misplaced over summer break when the cleaning crew moves them. Check with your team or admin on the best way to store your materials over the break if you do not store them in your room.
REMINDER
KITS REMAIN IN THE BUILDING. PLEASE RESTOCK YOUR KITS BEFORE PACKING UP FOR THE SUMMER.
Common questions around packing up and storing Science Kits:
Can I wait & restock the kit next year?
Kits should to be restocked before you store them away so they are ready to go for you or the teacher who uses them next year. It also allows us to order more supplies & inventory over the summer. If you wait until next school year, the inventory could run low or out.
Where do we send my kits at the end of the year?
Kits are checked out to grade levels and are to be stored in your building. Please do not store kits in outdoor spaces or where they can be destroyed by the elements or animals. It is best to not store kits more than 5 boxes high with the heaviest on the bottom. Surplus kits will be collected in the fall. If you have a surplus of kits, please let me know. All kits should stay put in buildings.
I need to do my inventory but do not have an inventory sheet.
The inventory sheets are located in drawer #1 & on the Science Hub under “Tools and Resources.”
I have some broken equipment, what should I do?
Fill out the Materials request Google Form and send the broken item Bailey Hill.
What do I do with the zip-ties?
The zip ties serve two purposes. 1.) They indicate that the kit was inventoried, restocked and is ready to store. 2.) It keeps the drawers from sliding open.
Do you have advice on getting the kits ready to store?
Make sure all the permanent materials are clean and dry & take the time to put the materials back into the correct drawers. Fill out the inventory sheet and request refills/replacements using the Google form found on the Science HUB. PLEASE DO NOT REORGANIZE OR CONSOLIDATE KITS. Zip tie the drawers once the kit is restocked and ready for storage. (Pull expired seeds and do not restock-that will happen next year.)
How should I store the teacher and student books?
The Investigation guides and teachers resource books go back into drawer #1 and the student books go back into the book boxes. Store them with the kits.
What are the Kit Copy Numbers and different colored stickers all about?
Each grade level has an assigned color . (Purple-K, Green-1st, Blue 2nd, Yellow 3rd, Pink 4th, Orange 5th) and each kit has a copy number. Store copy numbers together so that materials do not get mixed up and the next teacher has a complete set.
Can I just send you my kit and have you restock it for me?
Unfortunately, no. We do not have the staffing or space as in years past which is why it is done at your site.
Maggie Frassetto Cline
Elementary Science & K-12 Climate, Energy & Conservation Specialist
COOPERATING TEACHER INTEREST FORM
Every year 4J licensed professionals host over a hundred university students from a variety of university licensure programs from around the state and country. We believe that hosting can be a valuable experience and would encourage you to consider this opportunity for the 2024-25 school year. Hosting a licensure candidate can be a rewarding experience as you help them get a positive start on their career, foster a collaborative mentoring relationship with an eager partner willing to assist you and learn from them as they work to apply their ideas, new learning tools and current education research to their practice.
There are two requirements to qualify as a cooperating professional.
1.) Must be at a contract level status. Have taught with 4J or in Oregon for 3 or more years.
2.) Receive approval from the building principal or supervisor.
Additional information and details about the process will be provided to those who express an interest by completing the google form linked HERE.
TIME TO REGISTER FOR LETRS (Email for Katie Stiles)
It is time to register for LETRS! This is something many of you have been anticipating and looking forward to. LETRS has been said to be the best professional learning teachers have engaged in and a missing link to what many of us wished we had learned in college. LETRS is for novice and veteran teachers alike. The professional learning is supported by funds from United Way and the Early Literacy Grant.
We are shifting to offer LETRS once a year, beginning the course at the end of June/ beginning of July. We will no longer offer a winter cohort.
In order to register for Volume 1 or Volume 2, you must attend one of the informational sessions below. We are not able to offer alternative meetings, so please plan to join one of the options below that works best for your schedule.
All meetings are held via zoom. You do not need to register or sign up to attend, just hop on zoom. Meetings will last no longer than 30 minutes.
For more information about LETRS talk to your colleagues or check out the website.
All meetings will be held via Zoom: Link to meeting | |
LETRS Volume 1 Meetings: | LETRS Volume 2 Meetings: |
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*If you are currently enrolled in LETRS Volume 1, you must finish by June 30 with a passing rate of 80% in order to register for LETRS Volume 2. If you started LETRS Volume 1 in December and will not be done in time, please do not stress, you can start LETRS 2 in June 2025.
WEEK OF APRIL MAY 20TH-24TH
Monday, May 20th
- IPBIS Meeting at 2:45pm in the Nest
Tuesday, May 21st
- 2:45pm – Certified Staff Meeting in the Library (TBD)
Wednesday, May 22nd
- 9:00am – FOG
- 1:30pm – Classified Staff Meeting in the Library
Thursday, May 23rd
- 1:50pm – Beep! Beep! Winners
- 2:45pm – Grade Level Team Meetings
Friday, May 24th
- 1:50pm – Beep! Beep! Winners Drawing
WEEK OF APRIL MAY 27TH-31ST
Monday, May 27th
- NO SCHOOL – MEMORIAL DAY
- Miles on Memorial Run (5K, 10K, 15K) at Alton Baker Park
Tuesday, May 28th
- 2:45pm – PBIS Tier 1 Meeting in the Nest
Wednesday, May 29th
- 9:00am – FOG
- 11:50am – Fearless Flock Student Leadership Team meeting in Room 27
- 1:30pm – Certified Professional Learning in the Library
- Creating class lists for 2024-2025
Thursday, May 30th
- 11:15am – Rainbow Alliance Group in room 19
- 1:50pm – Beep! Beep! Winners
- 5:30pm – Golden Apple Awards at ATA! Come support our nominees!!
Friday, May 31st
- 1:50pm – Beep! Beep! Winners Drawing
- SAEBRS spring screener closes