Good evening and welcome to another fantastic #MEMSPAchat Let’s start with intros! My name is David Simpson from Northern Hills Middle School in Forest Hills. I will be the moderator tonight! Tonight’s topic is about our role outside of the school walls!
Come join #MEMSPAchat - a leading ed chat on Thursday at 8pm EST @Saskedchat#SASKchat Join the leading, learning & collaboration!
"Principals Unleashed: Our Life & Impact Beyond the School Walls"
Good evening and welcome to another fantastic #MEMSPAchat Let’s start with intros! My name is David Simpson from Northern Hills Middle School in Forest Hills. I will be the moderator tonight! Tonight’s topic is about our role outside of the school walls!
Good evening and welcome to another fantastic #MEMSPAchat Let’s start with intros! My name is David Simpson from Northern Hills Middle School in Forest Hills. I will be the moderator tonight! Tonight’s topic is about our role outside of the school walls!
Mike Domagalski - Middle School Principal - checking in for a bit on #MEMSPAchat
Ready to take 190 students and parents to Washington DC tomorrow! Can’t wait!
Q1: What’s something you are proud of that you have done or are involved with that positively impacted the community in which your school is located? Or - what is something you plan to do this year? #MEMSPAchat
Good Evening, Jonathan from SW MI and repping the Lancers of @LakeshoreMS Excited to take care this evening....and how is the third week of school almost over? #MEMSPAchat
A1: To promote our mission and vision, I came up with the "Common Thread." Every staff member in district gets a shirt each year and we wear them every first Friday #MEMSPAchat
Q1: What’s something you are proud of that you have done or are involved with that positively impacted the community in which your school is located? Or - what is something you plan to do this year? #MEMSPAchat
A1: We are currently doing construction to my building. One of the modifications we did was to make all the bathrooms gender neutral. We want all students to feel safe and comfortable. #MEMSPAchat
A1: This is not of my doing, but I am excited about our district's Library on the Loose mobile library! It's going to be amazing for the community (and right now it is an exhibit at #artprize10#memspachat
Q1: What’s something you are proud of that you have done or are involved with that positively impacted the community in which your school is located? Or - what is something you plan to do this year? #MEMSPAchat
A1: Looking forward to incorporating an 8th grade service project in the spring for the seniors and business in our district to support those that support us as a school community. Open to all tips from those who have done something similar. #memspachat
DOG (Dads Of Great) students. a Nationally recognized program to help being in dads (or a positive male figure) into the schools. https://t.co/XcXazZDdx4#MEMSPAchat
A1: I am most proud of the initiative, drive and level of engagement my ENTIRE team is embracing this year. I literally have a team of leaders who are embracing the concept that they are all our kids and we are The Village. I wear the color yellow 4 happiness! #MEMSPAchat
I’ve been involved in advocacy on a state and national level; I produced the Future of Learning TV series to educate our community on district teaching philosophy/ practices. Passed the state PTA resolution to revise MSTEP Looking forward to more work to empower tts #MEMSPAchat
A1: I'm super excited to begin teaching/implementing the 7 Habits @GardensSchool starting this year. I'm pumped to see what this can do for our Ss. #GardensLearn#MEMSPAchat
Q1: What’s something you are proud of that you have done or are involved with that positively impacted the community in which your school is located? Or - what is something you plan to do this year? #MEMSPAchat
A1) nothing formal, but I’m proud of the relationships we build with our community. We did before school conferences this year and had great feedback. #MEMSPAChat
A1: I am proud of bringing former MS students that come back to serve as HS students @CampSunshineMi They impact the lives of individuals with different abilities and disabilities and it changes the lens through which they see the world! #MEMSPAchat
Q1: What’s something you are proud of that you have done or are involved with that positively impacted the community in which your school is located? Or - what is something you plan to do this year? #MEMSPAchat
A2: Big Brothers/Big Sisters has been amazing at providing mentors. Good Hands helps with meal distribution. Local church helps clean our courtyards #MEMSPAchat
A2) We’re a small community. Many of our parents and families are business owners. They often ask how they can help. They give time, donations, and money. We have great community partners! #MEMSPAChat
A2: We partnered with the YMCA and our local hospital for a health initiative last year. It was a lot more impactful with the help of our community partnerships. #MEMSPAchat
A2: We have the best Career Day around that our Interventionist plans with help from other team members, we raise money for families in need in our area, students have the option of getting a message from YL and Access on late start Wednesdays. #memspachat
A2: one of our parents,who is a lunch coach too, set up a partnership with a nearby assisted living home where we invite our Ss to drop in monthly on a Saturday to read to the residents. New initiative. I hope to see it grow. #MEMSPAchat
Our district (elementary schools and middle school) is partnering with @KidsStandard where I’m the editor. Getting kids write for publication creates an entirely different purpose for writing. #MEMSPAchat a2
A2) #memspachat partnered with Lincoln Behavioral to bring SSW services to my building. Grew from 2 days a week to full time and still going strong. In house services to serve students and community!
A2: Our local Kiwanis is a valuable partner...helps with food/clothing drives, provides transportation on their bus for field trips, sponsors essay contests, runs Book Bingos for us and more #MEMSPAchat
Q3: Part of leadership is modeling healthy boundaries so that we have the time/energy to impact our communities. What can you share that you are doing outside of school to maintain work/life balance? #MEMSPAchat
A1: We do Grocery Store tours with parents helping them get the most out of their food budget. We work with Walmart to give them $10 gift cards so they can purchase a meal at the end. #MEMSPAchat
A3: Our school kick-off by Dr. Jay Marks challenged us to a 30 day challenge. My 30 day challenge is to do something active every day. So far, so good! #MEMSPAChat
A3) I’m really TRYING to not send emails to staff after hours. I want them to be present with their families, so I need to be aware of my impact on their ability to do that. So far...I’m doing pretty good! #MEMSPAchat
A3: Workout/make myself visible to sporting events/share on Twitter what I am reading to model the importance of literacy and continuously growing as a lead learner . #MEMSPAchat
Q3: Part of leadership is modeling healthy boundaries so that we have the time/energy to impact our communities. What can you share that you are doing outside of school to maintain work/life balance? #MEMSPAchat
A3: self care is NOT selfish! Yoga is my treat to myself. I also make time for dates with my hubby and do my best to attend my son’s sport events #memspachat
A3: Exercise is huge for me. Helps me deal with stress and makes me just happier. Rejuvenates me. Also coaching my two boys in soccer. Family time is so important. Can't always be about your work #MEMSPAchat
A3: When I am out at local events or the gym I make sure I say, "hi" to people. I want them to see me as a person who is out in the community and not always at school. On my school announcements I stress getting outside and playing to our students. #MEMSPAChat
Also can’t say enough about our local #CoastGuard volunteers who work on science and math projects with all of our students. They are amazing! #MEMSPAChat
A3. being dad. volleyball games, hockey practice and games. Trying to enjoy the football season, (Dang Lions). Running for local school board, getting a puppy!! #MEMSPAchat
A3: I lean a lot on my @threadschurch community! Also, I love to travel and spend time with my family. As strange at it sounds, I also spend some extra time volunteering at another middle school (different district), which is a few blocks from my house. #MEMSPAchat
Q3: Part of leadership is modeling healthy boundaries so that we have the time/energy to impact our communities. What can you share that you are doing outside of school to maintain work/life balance? #MEMSPAchat
A3: The book Boundaries by @DrHenryCloud is a great book to read to help you set boundaries! I have been trying to get back into routines that envolve healthy eating, walking and gardening!
#memspachat
A2: In AAPS we have a @A2Partnerships that partners local businesses with schools and we were able to get school supplies for all of our students before the first day of school! Our families were very appreciative! #MEMSPAchat
A3: Boomerang has been a game changer for me as a way to pause my inbox. When I leave until I return to work, even a couple hours after, my emails are stored in a separate box. No wake-up to emails...focus on my time and increase productivity in the morning #MEMSPAchat
A3: Trying to enjoy the last days of nice weather by saying yes to requests for outside, park, beach (I loathe the sand), etc. from my kids. Plan events with wife to look forward to. Try to read each night as we ask our kids to do. Never balanced, but...
#memspachat
Q3: Part of leadership is modeling healthy boundaries so that we have the time/energy to impact our communities. What can you share that you are doing outside of school to maintain work/life balance? #MEMSPAchat
We have to understand that we are human beings first and then educators. This goes to both how we treat ourselves and staff. Leaders need to model a balance - take walks during lunch, take vacations, take breaks, enjoy hobbies and let others know it. A3 #MEMSPAchat
A2: We have a great relationship with the local health center. There is a clinic extension in our elementary. Also, our school success worker is with a local non profit organization. Their involvement is a big part of the success in our school. #MEMSPAchat
A3: I run with the Run Club here in town, post pics of nights out with family, 5K’s, active with Community Foundation. Post and Share the positives OUTSIDE profession is important so people know WHO YOU ARE. #MEMSPAchat
Q4: In your role as principal/school leader, what impact have you had or envision for yourself in terms of involvement in Lansing/Washington with educational issues? #MEMSPAchat
Q4: In your role as principal/school leader, what impact have you had or envision for yourself in terms of involvement in Lansing/Washington with educational issues? #MEMSPAchat
A4: Being on the MEMSPA Board helps with being in the know and having a voice. Also, being personal with local legislatures help. Listen & offer ideas and solutions, don’t just complain to them #MEMSPAchat
Q4: In your role as principal/school leader, what impact have you had or envision for yourself in terms of involvement in Lansing/Washington with educational issues? #MEMSPAchat
A4: I see my impact working with our state "M" groups. This year I will be acting as liaison between @MACUL and @MEMSPA and their boards. If that has a transition into changes at the State level, then I will be happy. #MEMSPAchat
Q4: In your role as principal/school leader, what impact have you had or envision for yourself in terms of involvement in Lansing/Washington with educational issues? #MEMSPAchat
A4: That is one area I have not jumped into honestly. Not really sure what that looks like and how juggle that. Excited to see what others say. #MEMSPAchat
A3: I am present in the community; football/volleyball/basketball games, community events etc. & Personally @KatQuain and I are running the Detroit Half in a month! Staff, Ss & families can see us out running the streets of the Ville at all hours of the morning. #MEMSPAchat
Q3: Part of leadership is modeling healthy boundaries so that we have the time/energy to impact our communities. What can you share that you are doing outside of school to maintain work/life balance? #MEMSPAchat
A4: I have joined the MEMSPA advocacy days in Lansing. Talking with local legislatures when ever I can. I have spoken at the State Board of Education. That is a great way to be heard. I have been fortunate to work with the ACLU to support our transgender Ss. #MEMSPAchat
A3: Time with family and outdoors is a big part of my life. It is hard not to take advantage of all the woods and water in this part of the state. Many community events around outdoor activities. #MEMSPAchat
A4: I have joined the MEMSPA advocacy days in Lansing. Talking with local legislatures when ever I can. I have spoken at the State Board of Education. That is a great way to be heard. I have been fortunate to work with the ACLU to support our transgender Ss. #MEMSPAchat
A3: I’m planning my meals the night before, I have 10 mins in my schedule to eat everyday, I take 3 pictures everyday of someone or something that inspires me, I pray, I listen with my ears and heart and Sunday’s are for my home family. #MEMSPAchat
A4: Share information with parents at monthly meetings as appropriate- make sure they understand current or pending issues and the impact on their kids. #MEMSPAchat
Q4: In your role as principal/school leader, what impact have you had or envision for yourself in terms of involvement in Lansing/Washington with educational issues? #MEMSPAchat
@davidsimpson512 Yes, I would encourage everyone to come to the MEMSPA lobbying days! Great way to get your feet wet and meet your local legislators. #MEMSPAChat
Advocacy has always been important to me. Our district annually sends advocacy teams of school and parent leaders and students to both capitals to talk on the important issues. Keeping in touch afterwards is a key. A4 #MEMSPAchat
A5: Paul does a great job of keeping us informed through the MEMSPA communication. My superintendent is really connected and he has been a good resource for me. #MEMSPAChat
The @MEMSPA Lobbying Day is open to EVERYONE. Please consider coming! It is a great day of learning and advocating! More information to come! #MEMSPAchat
Q6: With social media, our views/opinions are very much public. How do you account for that while being an advocate for schools? What suggestions do you have for others? #MEMSPAchat
A5:@MASA_GOV legislative updates, @MAISA_GOV legislative liaison reports at GELN meetings, breakfast meetings with legislators at the ISD, Thrun legal updates, etc. #MEMSPAchat
A4: This hasn’t been a big push for me yet, but anytime our State Representative is in the area, she is invited to the school and often comes to discuss concerns. #MEMSPAchat (this is her reading to our Kindergarten class last March!)
A6:Don't anything on Twitter that would make your mom blush!!! Be an advocate for schools, kids, and LEARNING. "In the absence of knowledge, people will make their own" @Joe_Sanfelippo. How are you branding you school and sending that positive message? #MEMSPAchat
Q6: With social media, our views/opinions are very much public. How do you account for that while being an advocate for schools? What suggestions do you have for others? #MEMSPAchat
A6: I keep all the communication positive and I retweet all the positive things happening in our district. My tweets link to our school's Facebook page. I also make sure my families know that I don't react to social media. If there is a concern please come find me. #MEMSPAchat
A6: It takes a lot for my bleeding liberal heart to filter messages and my by filter I mean my wife tells me "don't post that." Twitter is usually my space for professional learning and I try to share resources that I think will grow others as well. #memspachat
A6: I usually try to avoid being political on social media. Don't feel comfortable or know how to go about it.This year I want to advocate the positive that is going on at our school to get more support for our community. Need to tell people why education is great #MEMSPAchat
A6: Find #PAWSITIVITY and perspective in everything that comes before you. Have an attitude of gratitude for the opportunity to serve others. Lead the way in learning. #MEMSPAchat
A6: I keep my opinion out of the decisions I make. With every decisions I think, about what's best for kids I serve... keeping kids in the forefront will always be a positive to me! #MEMSPAchat
A6: I usually try to avoid being political on social media. Don't feel comfortable or know how to go about it.This year I want to advocate the positive that is going on at our school to get more support for our community. Need to tell people why education is great #MEMSPAchat
October is Principal’s Month. Be on the lookout for something from @AllysonApsey and me on how to connect with your legislators to tell our story in Lansing! #MEMSPAchat
A7: The biggest issue facing us in education is equity. I think this because poverty truly causes gaps that ar difficult to close. Let's get some resources to help families from cradle on! #MEMSPAchat
A7) ...mental health/SEL. Because it is not well understood by many people, including educators, elected officials, parents, etc... that and a lack of resources to support mental health. #MEMSPAchat
A7: The biggest issue facing us in education is legislature putting unrealistic expectations on our students. I think this is because we have uneducated people trying to make decision about education. They "think" they know what's best. #MEMSPAchat
A7: The biggest issue facing us in education is funding. I think this because we struggle to find the resources to support ALL students. Mental health, SES resources most importantly. #MEMSPAchat
A7: Complete these sentences: The biggest issue facing us in education is ___us vs them attitude____ I think this because __we forgot we are in the same team___ #MEMSPAchat
Challenge Question: Before the next #MEMSPAchat, call your State Representative and State Senator and let them know your answer to Q7! For Michigan leaders, find your Legislators at https://t.co/7CxM6c7xQo#MEMSPAchat
#MEMSPAchat A7: Biggest issue is devaluation of those educating our youth — it is a shortage that will be crippling. Need to encourage and support future teachers!
A6: When working in public education, your school/district representation never really ends at the bell. I remember what my coaches told me, the name on the front of the jersey is more important than the name on the back. #MEMSPAchat
A7: the biggest issue facing us in education is failure to grow/progress. I think this because we are reluctant to push the boundaries of change. #MEMSPAchat
The biggest issue in education is that people who regulate education are far gone from real education. This also applies to boards of education as well as legislators and departments of education. A lack of usable knowledge and too much “googlable” info in schools. #MEMSPAchat A7
A7: The biggest issue facing us in education is misunderstanding. I think this is because of misinformation. Ask the people in the field what is going on and our needs!!! @MIHouseGOP@MIHouseDems I respect @darrincamilleri for holding Teacher forums! #MEMSPAchat
Challenge: I like how within the challenge you call for an answer... it's easy to problem admire! It's important that when faced with a challenge we become solution minded! #MEMSPAchat
Challenge Question: Before the next #MEMSPAchat, call your State Representative and State Senator and let them know your answer to Q7! For Michigan leaders, find your Legislators at https://t.co/7CxM6c7xQo#MEMSPAchat
#MEMSPAchat A7: I think the biggest issue in education is understanding that teaching is political because educators hold power. I think this because we need more advocates!
