May 2, 2014

I had a lot of fun on Track Day, and I am glad we were able to eat lunch together as we did.

May's Thinking Strategy: The Book Talk
The Book Talk is a great way for students to share their reading and interest with a whole class. I wonder what form the book talk might take in other classes or disciplines or how teachers might use the same idea to have students share a favorite activity, idea, or "learning" from another class. Click here for more information.

Teacher Appreciation
On Wednesday, 5/7, at 7:30am Chartwells will bring us breakfast snacks in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week.

5/12 Faculty Meeting
Since we missed our fourth Monday PD, we'll take some time on 5/12 to consider the following question: How will a 1:1 technology environment affect

• note taking, 
• assignment giving/completing, 
• giving feedback, and 
• student reflection and journal writing?

In other words, what kinds of things do teachers need to be aware of when planning for the above? Try to think less about what you must/will do and more about why what you have done in the past might change given the 1:1 environment.

And some reminders from last week's blog post:

Hixson High Five Awards

This is a busy and fast-paced time of year. Still I ask that you take 15 minutes to recognize students, who may not otherwise be recognized, for their readiness, respect, and responsibility.  Students really do value and benefit from this personal feedback.  Click here to read more information about the High Five Award.  Click here to e-mail Mrs. Davis your nominee. She will need to receive this on or before 5/9/14.

8th Grade Recognition PowerPoint

Last year, as a school, we contributed to a PowerPoint slideshow that ran a few times before 8th Grade Recognition began. This year, I would like to do the same thing. Essentially, each student's picture is on a slide and next to the picture is a list of accomplishments or qualities we would like to recognize. Click here to see last year's.

The time we spend on this is valuable to our students, their parents, and our program. All of us have editing access, so please Click here to contribute. Thanks to Jason Heisel and Kyle Anderson for pulling this together for us. If you have any questions, please let me know.

This week I have a few off campus meetings regarding curriculum and the monthly district admin meeting.