December 21, 2016 Superintendents' Council
December 21, 2016 MRVED Board (7 p.m.)
January 6, 2017 Strategic Planning - Core Planning Team (American Legion)
January 10, 2017 Title III Paras
January 16, 2017 MELT
Happy Holidays From The MRVED
Friday, December 16, 2016
MRVED Business
Upcoming Meetings
December 21, 2016 Superintendents' Council
December 21, 2016 MRVED Board (7 p.m.)
January 6, 2017 Strategic Planning - Core Planning Team (American Legion)
January 10, 2017 Title III Paras
January 16, 2017 MELT
December 21, 2016 Superintendents' Council
December 21, 2016 MRVED Board (7 p.m.)
January 6, 2017 Strategic Planning - Core Planning Team (American Legion)
January 10, 2017 Title III Paras
January 16, 2017 MELT
Holiday Book Recommendations
Holiday Book Recommendations
If you are looking for a couple books to read over the Christmas break, here is a short list of a couple great books by some excellent authors!
What Great Teachers Do Differently - Todd Whitaker
Better Conversations - Jim Knight
Fair Isn't Always Equal - Rick Wormeli
The Innovators Mindset - George Couros
If you are looking for a couple books to read over the Christmas break, here is a short list of a couple great books by some excellent authors!
What Great Teachers Do Differently - Todd Whitaker
Better Conversations - Jim Knight
Fair Isn't Always Equal - Rick Wormeli
The Innovators Mindset - George Couros
Tech Tip - RocketBook
RocketBook
Thanks to Beth Jahn from YME for sharing this with me. She saw this at the TIES conference this past weekend and passed it along.
Are you the type of person who loves your electronic device, but despises taking notes with it? Would you rather just take notes on paper and then somehow get those notes to your device. Well, now you have that ability with RocketBook. They have free pages on their website you can download and use directly with the app. This is a great idea and can be used in schools with 1:1 iPads, but the kids struggle to take notes on them. Check it out today!
Thanks to Beth Jahn from YME for sharing this with me. She saw this at the TIES conference this past weekend and passed it along.Are you the type of person who loves your electronic device, but despises taking notes with it? Would you rather just take notes on paper and then somehow get those notes to your device. Well, now you have that ability with RocketBook. They have free pages on their website you can download and use directly with the app. This is a great idea and can be used in schools with 1:1 iPads, but the kids struggle to take notes on them. Check it out today!
What Great Teachers Do Differently - Focus on Students First
Focus on Students First
Great teachers always put the needs of their students before theirs. Whitaker states, " Great teachers focus on students first, with a broad vision that keeps everything in perspective" (Whitaker, 48). This seems like a no-brainer that all teachers focus on students first, but in reality this is not the case for all teachers. Most teachers get into
the profession for their love of kids and learning, but slowly, usually over time, something happens.
Take a schedule change for example. There's an all school assembly at 2:00 on Friday, the student-centered teacher says, "I think it's great that our students get to hear speaker X on this very important topic, what can I do to help?" The teacher-centered teacher says, "Why does it have to be at 2:00, now my 7th hour class is going to be behind the 6th hour by a day. What am I going to do?" The difference is not compliance, it's about who is at the center, student or teacher.
Our natural instincts say to take care of ourselves first, others second. As a teacher, we need to put the needs of our students in front of ours. This may cause us discomfort or create small problems for us, but in the end, school is about and for the kids. Great teachers know this and live it.
Great teachers always put the needs of their students before theirs. Whitaker states, " Great teachers focus on students first, with a broad vision that keeps everything in perspective" (Whitaker, 48). This seems like a no-brainer that all teachers focus on students first, but in reality this is not the case for all teachers. Most teachers get into
Take a schedule change for example. There's an all school assembly at 2:00 on Friday, the student-centered teacher says, "I think it's great that our students get to hear speaker X on this very important topic, what can I do to help?" The teacher-centered teacher says, "Why does it have to be at 2:00, now my 7th hour class is going to be behind the 6th hour by a day. What am I going to do?" The difference is not compliance, it's about who is at the center, student or teacher.
Our natural instincts say to take care of ourselves first, others second. As a teacher, we need to put the needs of our students in front of ours. This may cause us discomfort or create small problems for us, but in the end, school is about and for the kids. Great teachers know this and live it.
MELT Registration
MELT Registration is Open
2017 MELT Registration opened on Monday, December 12 and will close on Thursday, December 22 at 3:00 p.m. Over 400 people registered on the first day. Some sessions have been closed due high registration numbers with a couple more ready to close. If you have not registered already, do so today!
MELT REGISTRATION LINK
2017 MELT Registration opened on Monday, December 12 and will close on Thursday, December 22 at 3:00 p.m. Over 400 people registered on the first day. Some sessions have been closed due high registration numbers with a couple more ready to close. If you have not registered already, do so today!MELT REGISTRATION LINK
Friday, December 2, 2016
MELT Information
MELT
The 2017 version of the MELT (MRVED Educators Learning Together) conference will be held on January 16, 2017 at Lac qui Parle Valley High School. From the feedback we received from the MELT last year, you will see some minor changes:
The 2017 version of the MELT (MRVED Educators Learning Together) conference will be held on January 16, 2017 at Lac qui Parle Valley High School. From the feedback we received from the MELT last year, you will see some minor changes:
- Passing time will be lengthened from 10 to 15 minutes.
- This is to allow our presenters to have ample time to set up.
- This also allows people to visit the restroom or concessions between sessions and still have enough time to make it to their next session.
- Lunch will be shortened to 45 minutes.
- You spoke, we listened.
- Concessions will be available in the hallways between sessions (pop and candy).
- You will get the session brochure a couple days prior to being able to register.
- This will allow you to go through all the sessions and choose what is best for you without being rushed to register.
- The brochure will be released on December 8, 2016. Registration will open at 7:30 a.m. on December 12, 2016. Your building principal will receive the registration link and send it to all staff the morning of December 12.
- Registration will close on December 22, 2016 at 3:00 p.m.
This will be the largest MELT ever as we are expecting 650 people. So it is so important to register by December 22, 2016 as the number of people attending fuels a lot of additional decisions that are made over the Christmas break with respect to that day - room assignments, lunch, bussing, etc.
MRVED Business
Weather Policy
Since we are located in the Montevideo School District area, if Montevideo schools are open and on time, we will hold the meeting. If Montevideo has a late start, the meeting will be cancelled and rescheduled.
Since we are located in the Montevideo School District area, if Montevideo schools are open and on time, we will hold the meeting. If Montevideo has a late start, the meeting will be cancelled and rescheduled.
However, even if the meeting is still being held, if the weather is unsafe to travel in your area, stay home! We want you to be safe. If you have any questions, feel free to call us at 320-269-9297.
MRVED will also submit meeting cancellations and/or updates on WCCO’s TV channel and website wcco.com (See School Closings under Quick Links). We will be listed under MRVED (just our initials.)
Upcoming Meetings
December 5, 2016 District Assessment Coordinators
December 15, 2016 Teachers' Advisory Council
December 16, 2016 Principals' Council
December 21, 2016 MRVED Board (7 p.m.)
December 21, 2016 Superintendents' Council
January 6, 2017 Core Strategic Planning Team
January 10, 2017 Title III Paras
January 16, 2017 MELT
Upcoming Meetings
December 5, 2016 District Assessment Coordinators
December 15, 2016 Teachers' Advisory Council
December 16, 2016 Principals' Council
December 21, 2016 MRVED Board (7 p.m.)
December 21, 2016 Superintendents' Council
January 6, 2017 Core Strategic Planning Team
January 10, 2017 Title III Paras
January 16, 2017 MELT
What Great Teachers Do Differently - Who is the Variable?
Who is the Variable?
This chapter by far has been my favorite! This chapter focuses on who is the difference maker in the classroom. Who is the variable? Whitaker starts with the example of the teacher who gets the award for sending the most students to the office. It seems the same teachers win this award year after year and we can already predict who will win it next year. How is it possible we could know this information already? We don't know what kids this teacher will have, but yet we know he/she will have the most discipline referrals. This example shows that the teacher is the variable in the classroom. When asking this teacher why there are so many office referrals, their answer will typically start with, "If the kids only...". This makes the kids the variable, and they are not...the teacher is the variable in the classroom.
This whole school year we have been looking at the book What Great Teachers Do Differently - 17 Things That Matter Most by Todd Whitaker. Each chapter has examined simple things that separate the great teachers from the good teachers. We all strive to be great at what we do, using some of the tips in this book can help all of us inch closer to that greatness.
This chapter by far has been my favorite! This chapter focuses on who is the difference maker in the classroom. Who is the variable? Whitaker starts with the example of the teacher who gets the award for sending the most students to the office. It seems the same teachers win this award year after year and we can already predict who will win it next year. How is it possible we could know this information already? We don't know what kids this teacher will have, but yet we know he/she will have the most discipline referrals. This example shows that the teacher is the variable in the classroom. When asking this teacher why there are so many office referrals, their answer will typically start with, "If the kids only...". This makes the kids the variable, and they are not...the teacher is the variable in the classroom.
Great teachers recognize they are the variable and realize it is them who will need to adjust for anything to improve. Great teachers know that they can only change things they have control of; themselves. Another great example is a teacher gives a spelling test, and over 1/2 the class fails the test. Who is to blame? Poor teachers will be quick to blame other variables...parents, the kids, schedules, snow days, etc... Great teachers know what the variable is, themselves. They look within first to realize what went wrong and then make adjustments within.
This variable idea does not only apply to education, but the business world as well. Great store managers know they are the variable that makes a business successful or not. Poor managers are quick to blame customers, location, weather, employees, corporate, etc...
Be the variable in your classroom!
Tech Tip - Quizizz Chrome Apps
Quizizz Chrome App
One of the newest formative assessment tools Quizizz, just got better (if you use Google Chrome). They have now created a Quizizz Chrome App for teachers and for students. This will now allow for users to get to the games quicker. If you have Chromebooks in your school, talk to your tech coordinator today about getting the App pushed out to your devices.
You can read more about the App and download it HERE.
One of the newest formative assessment tools Quizizz, just got better (if you use Google Chrome). They have now created a Quizizz Chrome App for teachers and for students. This will now allow for users to get to the games quicker. If you have Chromebooks in your school, talk to your tech coordinator today about getting the App pushed out to your devices.
You can read more about the App and download it HERE.
Newspapers In Education
Newspapers In Education
The Pioneer Press has partnered with a variety of businesses, individuals, and schools to provide the Pioneer Press Sunday edition for free to schools for the 2016-17 school year. Newspapers In Education also has a variety of different web tools for education. Schools can also subscribe to the daily paper for a fee.
Pioneer Press Free Sunday Edition Order Form
The Pioneer Press has partnered with a variety of businesses, individuals, and schools to provide the Pioneer Press Sunday edition for free to schools for the 2016-17 school year. Newspapers In Education also has a variety of different web tools for education. Schools can also subscribe to the daily paper for a fee.Pioneer Press Free Sunday Edition Order Form
Friday, November 11, 2016
MRVED Business
Upcoming Meetings
November 18, 2016 Principals' Council
November 23, 2016 Superintendents' Council
November 29, 2016 Strategic Planning Committee
December 2, 2016 Title III Teachers
December 5, 2016 District Assessment Coordinators
November 18, 2016 Principals' Council
November 23, 2016 Superintendents' Council
November 29, 2016 Strategic Planning Committee
December 2, 2016 Title III Teachers
December 5, 2016 District Assessment Coordinators
TIES 2016 Conference
TIES 2016 ConferenceThe TIES 2016 Education Technology Conference will take place at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis December 10-13, 2016. Over the course of four days, attendees will have access to information and resources covering hundreds of educational technology-related topics. Presenters have hands-on experience with the subjects they address and attendees will leave ready to hit the ground running with students and staff. From Makerspaces and Google apps to professional development and digital portfolios, TIES 2016 workshops and seminars shed new light on innovative classroom technologies.
You can register by going to the TIES Conference Website.
Tech Tip - YouTube Hot Keys
YouTube Hot Keys
Thanks to Ann Wachtler from Montevideo for sending this awesome video to me about YouTube hot keys. It's a quick and very informative watch. There are many tips for you and your students.
Here is a quick PDF reference sheet for YouTube hot keys and shortcuts too
http://www.gegeek.com/documents/cheat%20sheets/YouTube%20Shortcuts.pdf
Thanks to Ann Wachtler from Montevideo for sending this awesome video to me about YouTube hot keys. It's a quick and very informative watch. There are many tips for you and your students.
Here is a quick PDF reference sheet for YouTube hot keys and shortcuts too
http://www.gegeek.com/documents/cheat%20sheets/YouTube%20Shortcuts.pdf
What Great Teachers Do Differently - High Expectations - For Whom?
What Great Teachers Do Differently - High Expectations - For Whom?
The next chapter in What Great Teachers Do Differently by Todd Whitaker talks about expectations. This chapter, although very short, dealt a huge punch. Whitaker talks about that as teachers we all have high expectations for our students, regardless if you are a superstar teacher or not. But what sets great teachers apart from everyone else, is having high expectations for themselves.
The teachers with high expectations for themselves are the ones who when they see their students struggling, they say to themselves "what can I do differently to help this student". Teachers with low expectations of themselves will often have the opposite reaction, "what is the student doing wrong that they aren't getting it". The great teachers have such high expectations of themselves that they will do anything they can to make sure the students are understanding what they are trying to teach. The same can be said about kids paying attention. If the students are not engaged, great teachers look within and look at their activities as to why students are engaged. Teachers with low expectations are quick to blame the students for not being engaged.
The next chapter in What Great Teachers Do Differently by Todd Whitaker talks about expectations. This chapter, although very short, dealt a huge punch. Whitaker talks about that as teachers we all have high expectations for our students, regardless if you are a superstar teacher or not. But what sets great teachers apart from everyone else, is having high expectations for themselves.
The teachers with high expectations for themselves are the ones who when they see their students struggling, they say to themselves "what can I do differently to help this student". Teachers with low expectations of themselves will often have the opposite reaction, "what is the student doing wrong that they aren't getting it". The great teachers have such high expectations of themselves that they will do anything they can to make sure the students are understanding what they are trying to teach. The same can be said about kids paying attention. If the students are not engaged, great teachers look within and look at their activities as to why students are engaged. Teachers with low expectations are quick to blame the students for not being engaged.
MELT Networking Facilitator Sign Up
The MRVED is looking for facilitators of networking groups for the 2017 MELT in January. As a facilitator you are not expected to be the expert in the room, but rather move the discussion along. The goal of a networking group is to share resources and ideas with people who have the same interest. They are meant to include a give & take. Bring something to share and take something away that someone else shared. The only networking groups that will be offered are those that have a willing facilitator. If a networking group does not have a facilitator, it will not be held. If you would like to sign up, please click the link below and add your name to the list next to the group you would like to facilitate. The networking sign up will close at 3:00p.m. on Friday November 18. If you have any questions or cannot access the form, please contact Brandon (braymo@mrved.net).
Friday, October 28, 2016
MRVED Business
October 19, Professional Development Day
The MRVED wishes to thank everyone for their participation in our first common professional development day on October 19. We hope the day was beneficial to you as an educator and helped move you forward in your professional learning. The MRVED would also like to thank the people who were willing to facilitate the meetings. Without them, this day would not be possible.
If you have not already filled out the evaluation for the day, please do so. You can access the evaluation by clicking the link below.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScyfc3X_UtiPxyJp1Xnm61aglJF_jww522PK3lxFnvdpoTTsg/viewform
We look forward to providing another excellent day of professional development on January 16, when we will all gather for the MELT conference. This year is shaping up to be the best MELT yet with many new presenters. You still have time to submit a presentation proposal. More information can be found at the link below.
http://mrvedupdate.blogspot.com/2016/09/melt-2017-call-for-presentation.html
MRVED Meetings
November 18, 2016 Principals' Council
November 23, 2016 Superintendents' Council
December 2, 2016 Title III Teachers
December 5, 2016 District Assessment Coordinators
December 15, 2016 TAC
December 16, 2016 Principals' Council
December 21, 2016 MRVED Board (7 p.m.)
December 21, 2016 Superintendents' Council
The MRVED wishes to thank everyone for their participation in our first common professional development day on October 19. We hope the day was beneficial to you as an educator and helped move you forward in your professional learning. The MRVED would also like to thank the people who were willing to facilitate the meetings. Without them, this day would not be possible.
If you have not already filled out the evaluation for the day, please do so. You can access the evaluation by clicking the link below.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScyfc3X_UtiPxyJp1Xnm61aglJF_jww522PK3lxFnvdpoTTsg/viewform
We look forward to providing another excellent day of professional development on January 16, when we will all gather for the MELT conference. This year is shaping up to be the best MELT yet with many new presenters. You still have time to submit a presentation proposal. More information can be found at the link below.
http://mrvedupdate.blogspot.com/2016/09/melt-2017-call-for-presentation.html
MRVED Meetings
November 18, 2016 Principals' Council
November 23, 2016 Superintendents' Council
December 2, 2016 Title III Teachers
December 5, 2016 District Assessment Coordinators
December 15, 2016 TAC
December 16, 2016 Principals' Council
December 21, 2016 MRVED Board (7 p.m.)
December 21, 2016 Superintendents' Council
What Great Teachers Do Differently - Prevention versus Revenge
Prevention versus Revenge
As we continue on our journey through Todd Whitaker's book What Great Teachers Do Differently, we are looking at the 17 things that matter most. This chapter deals with student discipline. It offers a great way to think about classroom management, and more importantly discipline.
The first thing that struck me while reading this chapter is the mindset of how to deal with a student who misbehaves. Whitaker states "Effective teachers want to prevent misbehavior, whereas ineffective teachers focus on punishing a student ... (Whitaker, 25)". The effective teacher finds ways and deals with a student in a manner that will prevent the misbehavior from happening again. The ineffective teacher will punish the behavior and often times see the same behavior happen again. Ineffective teachers deal with the past, whereas effective teachers deal with the future.
When misbehavior happens, all eyes are usually on the teacher to see how he/she responds to the situation. If the teacher blows up, yells, or embarrasses the student, often times the behaviors will reoccur. If a teacher can deal with the student at an opportune time and in a private matter, often times the behavior will not reoccur. Students are smart, if they know the teacher will fly off the handle while everyone is watching, the student got what they wanted...attention and amusement.
In short, deal with the future not the past when handling misbehaving students.
As usual, there is so much more in this chapter, so I highly recommend reading this great book by Todd Whitaker.
As we continue on our journey through Todd Whitaker's book What Great Teachers Do Differently, we are looking at the 17 things that matter most. This chapter deals with student discipline. It offers a great way to think about classroom management, and more importantly discipline.
When misbehavior happens, all eyes are usually on the teacher to see how he/she responds to the situation. If the teacher blows up, yells, or embarrasses the student, often times the behaviors will reoccur. If a teacher can deal with the student at an opportune time and in a private matter, often times the behavior will not reoccur. Students are smart, if they know the teacher will fly off the handle while everyone is watching, the student got what they wanted...attention and amusement.
In short, deal with the future not the past when handling misbehaving students.
As usual, there is so much more in this chapter, so I highly recommend reading this great book by Todd Whitaker.
MELT Presenters
MELT Presenters
The MRVED is still actively pursuing teachers to present at the MELT (MRVED Educators Learning Together) conference in January. Please see this previous post that explains all about presenting. If you know someone who is doing something great in their classroom, encourage them to present, or if you are doing something great, please fill out the form.
The MRVED is still actively pursuing teachers to present at the MELT (MRVED Educators Learning Together) conference in January. Please see this previous post that explains all about presenting. If you know someone who is doing something great in their classroom, encourage them to present, or if you are doing something great, please fill out the form.
Google Education On-Air Conference
Google Education On-Air Conference
Google will once again be hosting their Education On-Air conference on December 2nd and 3rd. This is a great opportunity to learn from some of the top thinkers and educators in the world. The event is free and all you need is an internet browser. There are a variety of topics and people presenting this year. Check out the Education On-Air Conference webpage today!
Google will once again be hosting their Education On-Air conference on December 2nd and 3rd. This is a great opportunity to learn from some of the top thinkers and educators in the world. The event is free and all you need is an internet browser. There are a variety of topics and people presenting this year. Check out the Education On-Air Conference webpage today!
Free Social Studies Workshops
Social studies teachers can take advantage of a variety of Free workshops to enhance their own knowledge and pedagogy.
1) Thanks to a generous Library of Congress grant, the Minnesota Historical Society and partners are offering free workshops for social studies teachers! In the 2016-2017 school year, nine regional workshops throughout Minnesota will focus on historical and geographic inquiry, and primary sources in the classroom. Workshops are open to current classroom teachers in grades K-12, and are limited to the first 25 registrants. Visit the grant website for more information and to register: http://education.mnhs.org/loc/workshops.
2) Register NOW to attend a free workshop about ArcGIS Online! Educator Day at the MN GIS/LIS Conference in Duluth is on Wednesday, October 26. Join us to learn about ways to engage students in spatial thinking and problem solving using several online mapping tools from Esri. Visit the website to learn more: http://www.mngislis.org/?page=2016_conf_k12_form
3) Join us for "Shaping America's Elections," a free workshop sponsored by Colonial Williamsburg. Social studies teachers in grades 5-12 are invited to register for a day of discussion and learning about historical elections. The workshop will take place on Saturday, November 5 at the Minnesota History Center. Visit the website for information or to register: http://education.mnhs.org/node/11687
1) Thanks to a generous Library of Congress grant, the Minnesota Historical Society and partners are offering free workshops for social studies teachers! In the 2016-2017 school year, nine regional workshops throughout Minnesota will focus on historical and geographic inquiry, and primary sources in the classroom. Workshops are open to current classroom teachers in grades K-12, and are limited to the first 25 registrants. Visit the grant website for more information and to register: http://education.mnhs.org/loc/workshops.
2) Register NOW to attend a free workshop about ArcGIS Online! Educator Day at the MN GIS/LIS Conference in Duluth is on Wednesday, October 26. Join us to learn about ways to engage students in spatial thinking and problem solving using several online mapping tools from Esri. Visit the website to learn more: http://www.mngislis.org/?page=2016_conf_k12_form
3) Join us for "Shaping America's Elections," a free workshop sponsored by Colonial Williamsburg. Social studies teachers in grades 5-12 are invited to register for a day of discussion and learning about historical elections. The workshop will take place on Saturday, November 5 at the Minnesota History Center. Visit the website for information or to register: http://education.mnhs.org/node/11687
If you have any questions, let Brandon know and he will point you in the right direction.
Thursday, October 13, 2016
MRVED Business
MELT Call for Presentation Proposals
The 2017 MELT Call for Presentation Proposals has been sent out, See the previous weeks blog post explaining the Call for Presentation Proposals. Proposals are due by October 26. If you know someone who is doing awesome things in their classroom, encourage them to present. Or, if you, yourself, are doing something awesome, show it off!
MRVED Upcoming Meetings
October 19, 2016 MRVED Common Day for Best Practice Meetings
October 26, 2016 Superintendents' Council
October 28, 2016 Principals' Council
November 18, 2016 Principals' Council
November 23, 2016 Superintendents' Council
The 2017 MELT Call for Presentation Proposals has been sent out, See the previous weeks blog post explaining the Call for Presentation Proposals. Proposals are due by October 26. If you know someone who is doing awesome things in their classroom, encourage them to present. Or, if you, yourself, are doing something awesome, show it off!
MRVED Upcoming Meetings
October 19, 2016 MRVED Common Day for Best Practice Meetings
October 26, 2016 Superintendents' Council
October 28, 2016 Principals' Council
November 18, 2016 Principals' Council
November 23, 2016 Superintendents' Council
October 19 Professional Development Day Information
October 19, 2016 Update
The MRVED Common Professional Development Day will soon be upon us. Teachers will be attending this day either at the Montevideo High School or the Dawson-Boyd High School depending on their discipline or grade level. Teachers should have received an email yesterday, Thursday, indicating where they will be attending and some additional details on the day. The following information is probably redundant but it never hurts to reiterate details on the day.
The MRVED Common Professional Development Day will soon be upon us. Teachers will be attending this day either at the Montevideo High School or the Dawson-Boyd High School depending on their discipline or grade level. Teachers should have received an email yesterday, Thursday, indicating where they will be attending and some additional details on the day. The following information is probably redundant but it never hurts to reiterate details on the day.
Agenda: (Special Ed teachers have a slightly different agenda)
8:00 a.m. - Coffee and breakfast treats
8:30 a.m. - Meetings commence
11:30 a.m. - Lunch on site
12:00 p.m. - Afternoon meetings commence
2:30 p.m. - Day is done
Lunch:
- We are allowing only a half hour for lunch so if you did not sign up for the catered meal, please bring a bag lunch.
- Money is to be collected at each district.
- The district superintendents are providing the morning refreshments.
Transportation:
- Check with your district office for transportation details.
- If teachers drive themselves:
- Dawson has parking available in the Community Center lot located on Chestnut St.; a small church parking lot across from the main doors on Chestnut St; and a small parking lot west of the building.
- Montevideo has a very large parking lot on the south side of the building.
- Buses can be parked:
- Dawson - in the Community Center parking lot
- Montevideo - in the bus garage parking lot across from the high school
- In Dawson, enter through the main door located on Chestnut Street.
- In Montevideo, enter through the main door on William Avenue (not the gym doors). A sign above the door reads "Montevideo Senior High School Main Entrance" and the numeral 1.
- There will be a registration table for teachers to pick up their agendas for the day, along with their lunch ticket if they selected to eat the catered meal.
You are strongly encouraged to bring a device. WiFi will be available at both sites.
This is a new venture for us this year and we will be anxious to read your evaluations on the day. You will receive an evaluation survey on Monday, 10/24/16 and we would appreciate it if you would take a few minutes to complete the survey.
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Minnesota Educator Academy (MEA) Conference
MEA
The Minnesota Educator Academy (MEA) Conference is an awesome FREE education conference to attend. This year is no exception. There are many great sessions to choose from throughout the 2 day conference. Click the link below to find out more!
MEA Conference Link
The Minnesota Educator Academy (MEA) Conference is an awesome FREE education conference to attend. This year is no exception. There are many great sessions to choose from throughout the 2 day conference. Click the link below to find out more!
MEA Conference Link
Tech Tip - Utah Education Network
Utah Education Network
This site is a hidden gem! The Utah Education Network (UEN) has tons of resources for your classroom. From lesson plans to an app search engine to a list of interactives. There are TONS of things on this website for every educator. Take a couple minutes today and browse through it!
This site is a hidden gem! The Utah Education Network (UEN) has tons of resources for your classroom. From lesson plans to an app search engine to a list of interactives. There are TONS of things on this website for every educator. Take a couple minutes today and browse through it!
What Great Teachers Do Differently - When You Say Something, Mean It
When You Say Something, Mean It
As we continue through the book, "What Great Teachers Do Differently- 17 Things That Matter Most", by Todd Whitaker, we will review the previous 2 weeks.
1. It's People, Not Programs
2. The Power of Expectations
Now we will examine the chapter titled, "If you say something, mean it". This chapter is exactly as the title describes. Great teachers follow through with what they say they are going to do. This chapter focuses primarily on classroom management, but I believe it can apply to all facets of things including, but not limited to, helping organize school events, meeting preparation, attending student events, etc... It's not about how many things you are involved in or how many events you attend, it's about following through when you say you will do something.
In terms of discipline, if you say there is going to be a consequence, then follow through on your consequence. If kids know you don't follow through on consequences, they will push you to the limit, thus disrupting quality instructional time. Whitaker also points out that, although follow through is important, so is how you deal with the misbehavior. For instance, often times you can acknowledge a behavior, without letting the whole class know you have seen the behavior. Often times the student misbehaving is seeking attention. By acknowledging the misbehavior in a loud way, you are giving the student what they want, attention. So communicating the consequence is often times just as important as following through on the consequence.
"Great teachers manage their classrooms thoughtfully. When they say something, they mean it (Whitaker, 24)."
As we continue through the book, "What Great Teachers Do Differently- 17 Things That Matter Most", by Todd Whitaker, we will review the previous 2 weeks.
1. It's People, Not Programs
2. The Power of Expectations
Now we will examine the chapter titled, "If you say something, mean it". This chapter is exactly as the title describes. Great teachers follow through with what they say they are going to do. This chapter focuses primarily on classroom management, but I believe it can apply to all facets of things including, but not limited to, helping organize school events, meeting preparation, attending student events, etc... It's not about how many things you are involved in or how many events you attend, it's about following through when you say you will do something.
In terms of discipline, if you say there is going to be a consequence, then follow through on your consequence. If kids know you don't follow through on consequences, they will push you to the limit, thus disrupting quality instructional time. Whitaker also points out that, although follow through is important, so is how you deal with the misbehavior. For instance, often times you can acknowledge a behavior, without letting the whole class know you have seen the behavior. Often times the student misbehaving is seeking attention. By acknowledging the misbehavior in a loud way, you are giving the student what they want, attention. So communicating the consequence is often times just as important as following through on the consequence.
"Great teachers manage their classrooms thoughtfully. When they say something, they mean it (Whitaker, 24)."
Friday, September 30, 2016
What Great Teachers Do Differently - Expectations
Expectations
Last week we started our series on the book "What Great Teachers Do Differently" by Todd Whitaker. Our topic last week was centered on people being the driving force behind making a school successful, not the programs. This week we will look at "The Power of Expectations".
Whitaker says "Great teachers focus on expectations. Other teachers focus on rules" (Whitaker, p.13). This is an interesting statement and holds a lot of merit. By setting expectations for our students from the start we are being more proactive in our approach versus always being reactive.
A great example of setting expectations not rules is "Be Respectful". I'm sure we can all think of 10 rules that can fall under the umbrella of being respectful. By using expectations, it gives the teacher much more discretion when disciplining a student. Whereas, many rules have defined consequences. Sometimes the punishments don't always fit the crime. By being vague, yet pointed, in your expectations, you can deal with all consequences differently, yet fairly.'
This chapter deals primarily with student behavior in terms of expectations, but I think it can also apply to student learning as well. Great teachers set high expectations for their students and are not afraid of the work it is going to take to get there. They are also not afraid of failure, thus allowing themselves to set high expectations for their students.
Too often we set the bar high enough for students to reach it, but never challenge them by setting the bar just out of their reach. The fear and letdown we experience when a student doesn't reach the bar we have set for them makes us set the bar lower and lower. We need to have the mindset of the phrase in the image in this post, "Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars." This mindset is so important for everyone. Aim big, have high expectations for all students.
Last week we started our series on the book "What Great Teachers Do Differently" by Todd Whitaker. Our topic last week was centered on people being the driving force behind making a school successful, not the programs. This week we will look at "The Power of Expectations".
Whitaker says "Great teachers focus on expectations. Other teachers focus on rules" (Whitaker, p.13). This is an interesting statement and holds a lot of merit. By setting expectations for our students from the start we are being more proactive in our approach versus always being reactive.A great example of setting expectations not rules is "Be Respectful". I'm sure we can all think of 10 rules that can fall under the umbrella of being respectful. By using expectations, it gives the teacher much more discretion when disciplining a student. Whereas, many rules have defined consequences. Sometimes the punishments don't always fit the crime. By being vague, yet pointed, in your expectations, you can deal with all consequences differently, yet fairly.'
This chapter deals primarily with student behavior in terms of expectations, but I think it can also apply to student learning as well. Great teachers set high expectations for their students and are not afraid of the work it is going to take to get there. They are also not afraid of failure, thus allowing themselves to set high expectations for their students.
Too often we set the bar high enough for students to reach it, but never challenge them by setting the bar just out of their reach. The fear and letdown we experience when a student doesn't reach the bar we have set for them makes us set the bar lower and lower. We need to have the mindset of the phrase in the image in this post, "Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars." This mindset is so important for everyone. Aim big, have high expectations for all students.
Tech Tip - Google Classroom Updates
Google Classroom Updates
Google announces updates once a month and the August update was a significant one for Google Classroom. You can read all about the updates in this Google Blog. The two updates that look to be really promising is the annotation feature in the Classroom App and the new Inbox. If you use classroom, check out these updates today.
There is also a plug about the new update to Google Expeditions as well. So even if you don't use Classroom, the Google Blog post is worth looking over.
E-Books Minnesota
READ LOCAL! Ebooks Minnesota is an online ebook collection for all Minnesotans. The collection covers a wide variety of subjects for readers of all ages, and features content from our state's independent publishers, including some of our best literature and nonfiction.
Ebooks Minnesota is a joint project of Minitex and the Minnesota Department of Education, State Library Services. The collection was made possible in part by funding from the Minnesota Department of Education through a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Ebooks Minnesota is a joint project of Minitex and the Minnesota Department of Education, State Library Services. The collection was made possible in part by funding from the Minnesota Department of Education through a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
MRVED Business
MEETING UPDATES
Principals'Council
The Principals'Council gathered at the MRVED on Friday, September 9 for their first meeting of the year. Time was spent getting caught up on Flexible Learning Year/Professional Development plans for the year. We then spent time discussing and learning about "The Why" for school initiatives. It was decided that the Principals'professional development for the year will be centered around "Leading School Change" by Todd Whitaker. The day ended with the group networking.
TAC
The Teachers'Advisory Council met for the first time this school year on September 20. Much like the Principals' Council the group was refreshed on the Flexible Learning Year/Professional Development plans for the year. They also dove into the activity about "The Why" for school initiatives. Lunch was excellent and there was great networking during that time. The afternoon was spent primarily on MELT planning. The TAC provided the MRVED with a wealth of session ideas. Overall, it was a great day with some great people.
Title I
Title I teachers met at the MRVED on Friday, September 23. The morning kicked off with Karen presenting on strategies when working with English Learner students, which can be applied to all students as well. The group then participated in an activity called "Intervention Showcase", where each district got 5-10 minutes to showcase their favorite and most effective interventions. Lunch was once again awesome! The afternoon consisted of Brandon leading the group through activities centered around the topic of communication and having better conversations. The day ended with a great networking session.
UPCOMING MEETINGS
October 7, 2016 Title III Paras
October 19, 2016 MRVED Common Day of Professional Development
October 26, 2016 Superintendents' Council
October 28, 2016 Principals' Council
November 18, 2016 Principals' Council
November 23, 2016 Superintendents' Council
Principals'Council
The Principals'Council gathered at the MRVED on Friday, September 9 for their first meeting of the year. Time was spent getting caught up on Flexible Learning Year/Professional Development plans for the year. We then spent time discussing and learning about "The Why" for school initiatives. It was decided that the Principals'professional development for the year will be centered around "Leading School Change" by Todd Whitaker. The day ended with the group networking.
TAC
The Teachers'Advisory Council met for the first time this school year on September 20. Much like the Principals' Council the group was refreshed on the Flexible Learning Year/Professional Development plans for the year. They also dove into the activity about "The Why" for school initiatives. Lunch was excellent and there was great networking during that time. The afternoon was spent primarily on MELT planning. The TAC provided the MRVED with a wealth of session ideas. Overall, it was a great day with some great people.
Title I
Title I teachers met at the MRVED on Friday, September 23. The morning kicked off with Karen presenting on strategies when working with English Learner students, which can be applied to all students as well. The group then participated in an activity called "Intervention Showcase", where each district got 5-10 minutes to showcase their favorite and most effective interventions. Lunch was once again awesome! The afternoon consisted of Brandon leading the group through activities centered around the topic of communication and having better conversations. The day ended with a great networking session.
UPCOMING MEETINGS
October 7, 2016 Title III Paras
October 19, 2016 MRVED Common Day of Professional Development
October 26, 2016 Superintendents' Council
October 28, 2016 Principals' Council
November 18, 2016 Principals' Council
November 23, 2016 Superintendents' Council
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