#memspachat Archive
A chat for Principals, Administrators & Lead Educators. Come join the Collaboration and Learning THURSDAY'S at 8pm ET.
Thursday August 25, 2016
8:00 PM EDT
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Welcome all... Mike Domagalski. Elementary Principal and Elem Curriculum Coordinator.
MODERATOR Tonight
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Julie Mytych, Walker Elementary in WWCSD
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Hello friends! Jon here, elementary principal from Livonia. Glad to be back with this group!
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Mike Schulte. Wilkerson Elementary. Warren, BABY!
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Hello everyone! Allison Taylor, Elementary Principal from Three Rivers.
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Good evening! I'm Cyndi, Elementary Principal in Walled Lake Consolidated Schools.
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A1: bi-monthly P.L.C.'s with students and staff (Play.Learn.Create) Both students and staff looked forward to it
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Aaron Baughman - Wayne-Westland Community Schools
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Jason Gribble, Forest Elementary School, Riverview
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Hello , Jonathan, K-5 principal from SW Michigan. Excited for this next 60 minutes!
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Kate Brohl - Co-Principal at Adams Upper Elementary in Wayne-Westland
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hey everybody ! Don - MS Principal - Long Island................
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Great participation on - starting now! Questions posting in 2 minutes...
Who's ready??? Bring on 2016-2017
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Andy, 3-5 principal SW Mich
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Questions posting in 1 minute.
Glad to see everyone on before Labor Day! Here we go on
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Q1: What is 1 thing you started last year that you are going to continue on for this upcoming year?
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A1: Sending encouraging notes as often as possible. I got great feedback form these last year!
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A1: This is my first year as a principal so every thing is new, but my focus is on relationships
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Rachael k-6 principal in Jenison
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Molly Funk, Principal Mentor and PL Facilitator. Happy New Year!
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A!. PBIS is rocking year year at Wilkerson in Warren.
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A1: Last year, we started schoolwide assemblies. Big hit! We will continue that tradition!
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A1: Sending encouraging notes as often as possible. I got a lot of great feedback from them last year!
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A1: social thinking, number talks, 3 act math tasks,
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Allison, you are starting with the most important thing first. Kudos to you!!
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Love this idea, we are doing Wed. What sort of celebrations are you doing?
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A1 and I started Google Classroom with our staff for resources and staff mtg info
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Welcome back everyone. Hope you are still smiling.
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A1: greeted every student, every AM with a handshake, eye contact and a greeting.
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A2: After reading "Leader in Me" this summer, giving students an opportunity to shine and find their voice in the building
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Hi Aaron! Great to see you on
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Q1: Incorporating character traits into our S of the Mth assemblies. Deeper focus, 1/tri rather than 1/mth.
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I am doing a real twitter chat on my own tonight! Thanks
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I will be using classroom with my staff as well. They have to submit lesson plans every week through it
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A1. Continue to build positive relationships through interactions, positive post cards to Ts, Ss, Ps.
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We will be doing this as a book study this year as a staff, super excited!
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Usually tied in with a habit (gratitude, responsibility,etc). Kid President videos are often included:)
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Relationships are key every year but especially in year 1!
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a1 brunch and learns for parents and also for teachers...
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Q2: Do you have any tweaks or improvements as it pertains to student behaviors for this school year?
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how often for parents? What type of topics?
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A1: Reserving some during the day to reenergize
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A2: Trying to build more leadership among the students by using the leader in me
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mostly tech tools last year ...... also SM
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A3: really focusing in on the NGSS. Ts have been meeting on their own during the summer to create their pacing guides
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A2 Review hallway procedures, being aware of new equipment such as clocks and new fire alarm pulls!
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Q2: 1/2 Through our work with Promoting Positive School Culture grant, better defining minor vs. major behavior.
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Add some time studying and implementing
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A2: with Ts this week with on fostering independence...we have to stay out of the way so they don't need us!
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Q2: 2/2 Being more aware of policies that are counterproductive to learning and culture of classrooms/building.
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A2: Always tweaking methods for student behaviors.Trying to bring parents into the look earlier to form positive relationships.
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A2: Continue with my study and implementation and learning of
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A2 - love set up in my new school for SI. Every teacher is on a school improvement team. 4 total teams. Full ownership.
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Betty here, Saline. A little late to the party, but hosted a orientation for our Kindergarten & new families at school tonight.
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our usual supports we use all year actually hinder independence building at the beginning (proximity, "the look")
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A2. Rewards instead of punishment. PBIS year 2
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Q3: What are the big curriculum changes that you are focusing on this upcoming school year, and how are these being implemented?
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A2: tweaked our k-2 behavior reflection sheet. Better for this age group
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A3: We are starting 5D this year, so a huge focus on student engagement and classroom environment and culture
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Grading, homework, attendance to a degree...are consequences counter productive for not meeting "expectation"...
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A3: Implementing Reading Street, Ready Math pilot and not using DIBELS anymore. Some big changes!
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A3: LPS is rolling out the Priorities Project, designed to help Ts focus on Key curriculum items...More depth & less breadth.
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A3: PLTW K-3 for Science instruction. Teachers trained together and PD planned throughout the year to keep momentum going.
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...and what should the true expectation be to build student up. Tough to describe in <140.
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A3: has to be intentional and targeted small group reading. Use the essential practices from to guide
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A2 make better positive connections with Ss & families from the start. "Tough to put the toothpaste back in the tube"
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A3 Transitioning from Connected Math 3 to EngageNY aka Eureka Math plus begin implementation of instructional shifts.
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A3 - working to further integrate social studies into literacy. Further exploration of NextGen standards
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A3 Continuing to implement Everyday Math 4, focusing on fidelity of lesson content, engaging Ss in inquiry, improving numeracy
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anything replacing DIBELS? Love this thought. :)
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continuing RtI initiative --- developing menu of Tier I interventions.....
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A3: our sup. Is helping us to streamline the million things that we do. No curriculum changes
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A4: Again, after reading "Leader in Me" and chatting with , having the Ss doing the "Week in Review" instead of me
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Just using STAR, the ORF reporting on STAR and STAR Early Literacy is very comparable to DIBELS
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A3. Reading, reading and more reading. Hopefully, 1 book, 1 school.
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Juggling the balls...helping teachers learn how to do it!
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I loved Eureka Math. It really makes students think!
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how could I forget the 5D?!
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Q3: No big curric changes, year 2 of EngageNY Math, last year was a big learning curve. We now know what we didn't know in 15-16
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Hello friends, Spiri from PA, lurking about 😊
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3 most important things in Education: Relationships, Relationships & Relationships:)
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How are you liking 5D? We are using Thoughtful Classroom
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So happy to hear of NGSS and social studies - ELA integration.
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All about diagnostic assessments. A screener of some sort is still part of a comp assess plan
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I don't know what you have planned for math block but if plan for atleast 90 min...or more.
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Yes, Yes, and Yes. Relationships, Relevance and Rigor...in that order!
https://t.co/jv9WdWcU76
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3 most important things in Education: Relationships, Relationships & Relationships:)
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LOL Im at a middle school so it's 52 minutes or bust.
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A5: What are we going to do with the M-STEP? Are going to keep it? Give local control? or use NWEA?
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Question 4 coming up on
Great collaboration everyone!!!
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A3: starting to look at NGSS and literacy, continued work on math district common assessments
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Q4: What is something new that you are excited to start school-wide this upcoming school year?
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A4: Looking to start up a STEM club created and paid for by the NHL and Red Wings
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A3 NGSS implementation beginning & hoping to see on display. Textbooks are a resource, not the curriculum
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A4: After a book study on I'm hoping we have implemented throughout the building!
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A4: Whole school community meetings, no homework policy (remove compliance), Flex Fridays. We can't wait!
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A5 Leveraging part of our daily advisory time for independent ready.
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A4: Anyone using All-Pro Dads, or Watch Dogs?
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A4 - A personal goal for all staff members to leave professional learning that I lead more energized, motivated, and inspired
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A4: student social media interns, a common district read aloud before global read aloud, mindfulness time daily
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want to turn staff on to Genius Hour this year.....
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Possible MiSTEP replaced with a norm referenced test like NWEA for 5th and 7th grades. Benchmark tests 3rd and 4th. Stay tuned.
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I am speaking at MEMSPA in December! I am excited to share my story!
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Q4: Implementing WIN, What I Need, intervention/extension for all students. Hope to help with limt. res. Worried about time.
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Touch base with He is doing it at 5/6 and they are rocking it!!
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I had to do 4 days this summer of Thoughtful Classroom too, ready to try it out
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Do you really think they will drop it?
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Yes-also getting into mindfulness-forming a committee to plan initiative-but, just want to get started
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A4) Not school wide...Yet! Piloting SS Community unit
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I had one teacher do genius our last year. Great plan. Whole school is impressive
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A4 Yes! Using our new technology to enhance our teaching.
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A6: Looking forward to Oct. and Nov. and spending some quality time sitting in my tree.
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Much research. Encourage nightly reading w/ no timers, no signatures. Family time, game nights, cooking together!
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Q5: full implementation of PPSC in January, SWIS system to track behavior data.
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Probably will be "pockets", but a start:)
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A4: sneaking in to say HI! We are excited to create a makerspace. So ready for the new year! https://t.co/YBr8doJRVv
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Q4: What is something new that you are excited to start school-wide this upcoming school year?
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Had great discussion today about HW with a staff member. We are close.
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it's really part of RtI Initiative right... DI approach
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Q5: What is 1 thing still looming for the state that you are unsure about, concerned about, or already planning for?
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Q5: Just nervous that I will miss deadlines that I'm not aware of...
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happy to share the work we've done. Finishing up parent letter this week. Spreadsheet w/ links to the research.
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A5: K-2 Literacy and Math Benchmark Assessments October 3-21. Planning already for 25 classrooms across 5 buildings.
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I am so proud that you are sharing your story you will positively change the lives who hear you
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A5: M-Step, continued changes in accountability
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A5: We are implementing 5D this year.To be honest, I'm a little nervous...scripting, coding, wonderings all seem overwhelming.
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A7: the book "Kids deserve it" by was a great way to motivate and inspire staff
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I would love to see this as well! I'm not for HW it's often used inappropriately anyway
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A5: Concerned about threats of closing schools
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Get a buddy who is a veteran who can help you navigate the dates....It will totally help!
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A5 - always anxious about all the paperwork required for school improvement. Too much minutia that gets in the way of real work
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A5: the whole SRO thing...
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we agree. It's primarily used for compliance. We want work to be authentic!
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Q5: Early Literacy and Math assmt. If mandated next year then I want to get started now.
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Is anyone doing K-2 Literacy and Math Benchmark Assessments for 1st and 2nd grade in October?
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A5: Wondering how much of a reduction in testing will occur for our 3-5 Ss. M-STEP ELA was a challenge to complete
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We will be doing it with our 2nd grade students
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A5: take the state stuff as it comes..., try not to worry. Focus on doing good stuff for kids https://t.co/10VuvycGZ1
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Q5: What is 1 thing still looming for the state that you are unsure about, concerned about, or already planning for?
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A5) Still unsure of ESSA and its impact on Ts, Ss, Title 1 Funding
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Yep, I have mixed feelings about that
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You going all in with the 6 dimensions or baby steps? We will have 5/6 after this year.
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atleast 10 hours on SI plan. I imagine I could make some awesome welcome back PD for teachers in that 10 hours
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A8: 1. Get into every classroom and read a book 2) prepare for Open House 3) Not be in my office
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How are we helping teachers OWN the SI plan...that is the question
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A5: Student growth measurement for evaluations Sorry for the late join - 1st day of school business tonight!
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Love these goals! https://t.co/EtOLiPYczt
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A8: 1. Get into every classroom and read a book 2) prepare for Open House 3) Not be in my office
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Q6: How are you planning on making time for you and not getting bogged down in your job?
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MEMSPA friends! Sorry to miss the first chat! Wishing you a great start to the New School Year! https://t.co/bsd1jCsdKW
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A5: Nervous about the uncertainty from politics and compliance that doesn't help children.
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Then yes, your feelings are valid! Let me know if you have any questions.
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A6: I am no longer answering emails in the evening. Scheduling blocks of time in my day with imaginary ppl so I can get out!
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Q6: Make sure to prioritize, not check emails after a certain time at night
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love! Imaginary work friends! :)
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the more I get out of my office the better I am!!!!!!
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A6: To quote the great Michael and Che' from AAPS, you need to "get out" for lunch at least once a week.
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A6 registered for some 5k races this fall, created my workout schedule. Need to hold myself accountable
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I'm starting to think that the Ed Yes report is becoming more of a benefit to our systems and processes
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A6: participating in mindfulness training 1 evening/week for 8 weeks & incorporating mindfulness practices in my daily routine.
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A6 - it may sound odd, but a couple hours Sunday late afternoon. Church, Lions, work. Allows me to not grind so hard all week
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I tried the "Calm" app... liked it.... wanna try to keep at it....
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A6: Weekly yoga class has helped with finding balance & quieting mind. Don't worry I'll keep Thursdays open:)
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Where/how are you doing your training? I would love to learn more
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A6: looking to win the U5 AYSO world championship...or just watch a blob of kids chase a ball. Either way it'll be hilarious
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A6: not immediately answering parent emails in the evening when I'm home
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Yes, I would always run out for a diet coke from McDs after students lunch hour to "regroup".
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A6 - as tells us, our educational career is a marathon not a sprint!
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Question 7 is on deck on ...
Great work everyone
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A6: have a new puppy have to take a mid day break to run home and walk him 25 minutes daily away
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A6: I also do acupuncture
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. To one up this. Take work email off your phone. https://t.co/e2pLTa7dpe
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A6: I am no longer answering emails in the evening. Scheduling blocks of time in my day with imaginary ppl so I can get out!
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A6) Love fall weather, take walks, view foliage, HS football games, cheer daughter on in field hockey, enjoy life
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Q7: What special thing did you give your staff as a welcome back gift? This year or in the past?
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A6: It's not about work/life balance...its strategic imbalance! Never letting the scale tip to one side too long.
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can I be one of your imaginary people?
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our district actually offered to all staff. Expected 10 - over 40 joining 2/sessions w/a waiting list.
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A6: No tech Tuesday. M, W, Th work night if needed, F-S are for family. Week starts Sunday at 8pm. Run/exercise 3 times a week.
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No pain at all. Promotes relaxation. Once every other week. More as needed. In Livonia.
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A7: Looking for ideas folks! Help me out:) Did a pic collage of summer fun with staff (thanks for idea:)
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A7: Enthusiasm for the new year, focusing my attention on them, lunch https://t.co/VSJUeapHlA
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Q7: What special thing did you give your staff as a welcome back gift? This year or in the past?
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A7: Worked with custodians to redo the lounge
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the book The One Thing describes this perfectly.
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A7: as much time as possible to be in their classrooms those first 3 PD days
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A7: food, time, and support. Personal or building budget doesn't allow for much else.
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Happy new school year, friends!!! Wishing you a smooth start to the marathon.
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LAST QUESTIONS posting in 1 minute on
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Love that you joined us! Hope all is well XOXO
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Your well wishes...and coffee will get us through!
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Friends... Don't forget to follow and join this chat each and every Thursday at 8pm. has your back
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Q8: What are your top three goals between now and the end of the first week of school?
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That's funny Mike! Laundry, groceries, and school supplies !
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will know where we can skim/skip/combine w/o compromising curric. Will know the dif. strategies and vocab it uses
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Connect, inspire, launch (a smooth start to the year)
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A8: First Week Goals: Get students excited for school, get teachers excited for school, get parents excited for school!
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A8: A teacher for every class, a good night's sleep, and a cold beverage after a nice walk with my wife.
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A7a) Princ gave an add on link, during 1st meet, placed ours on hers created chain,told us we're in this 2gether con't...
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A8: Great ques! Build relationships, build relationships, build relationships https://t.co/nbL4umJA0F
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Q8: What are your top three goals between now and the end of the first week of school?
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A8: connect w/ students, staff and parents, not feeling overwhelmed, time with family that weekend
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Oh and work, work, and work...Maybe a drink or two! 'mthatmomwhodidntbuyschoolsuppliesyet
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Way to go Karen!!! Keep Leading Positive:)
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want to be a leader, not a manager, but, gotta admit, first wk calls for a lot of management
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A8: breathe, breathe and eat lunch at least once. Lol.
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A8 gotta remove all obstacles for teachers and kids!!
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I am in the club with you Molly!
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A8: get some rest, host 1st school wide community meeting, cheer on my people!
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A7) Building was under construct, tough year, relied on ea other a lot
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True that! Wish it were different though.
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Love this idea! What a positive message this sends.
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Loved the chat tonight! Thanks for having me! I will be back!
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well... esp for principals to support the amazing work of inspiring teachers
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A8: Greet all team members on day one in the Bldg, high five each Ss, & visit every room for 10 min each school day
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Glad to have back!! Thanks for your leadership!
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A8: Keep smiling! :D The end of our 1st week is tomorrow! YIKES!
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Might have to look into this. We started 2 years ago. You here anything about attendance counting?
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Wishing you all much success for 2016-17. Thank you all for Leading Learning.
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Missed my friends! Looking forward to a great year together.
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