MRVED Update - February 24, 2021

MRVED Business

Upcoming Meetings

February 24, 2021 - Superintendents' Council

March 12, 2021 - Title III Paraprofessional 

April 1st Common Inservice Day

With warmer weather on the horizon, April 1st will be here before we know it. The MRVED will continue to work towards our Social Emotional Learning goals for our common days. Since we can't all come together again, the MRVED is creating a website that will include SEL activities, as well as a handful of webinars that teachers can watch with specific discussion questions. Teachers are encouraged to utilize the activities and/or videos in groups (PLC, Grade Level, Content Area). There are some excellent, high quality activities, and videos for teachers to access. Look for the website roughly a week prior to the event.

Also, as part of the April 1st date, the MRVED will be piloting an idea to try to effectively collaborate amongst our districts from a distance. The collaborative time will take place between 10:00-12:00 on April 1st. Instead of the MRVED controlling which virtual platform will be used, we are leaving that up to the teachers who wish to start a collaborative meeting. Teachers will have the power to decide what and when they want to collaborate, all you have to do is place a video call link into the document listed below. Please have your collaborative group and link listed on the document no later than Friday, March 26 at 3:00 PM.

If you wish to collaborate around a certain topic, or grade level, or even content area, please sign-up using the document linked below. 

Collaboration Zone Sign-Up

Look for more information from your district pertaining to a schedule for the day. The SEL videos and activities can take place at any time during the day or even after. The Collaboration Zone will take place from 10:00-12:00 on April 1st.

Updates

MN Social Studies Standards Update

Since releasing the first working draft of the social studies standards in December, the Minnesota Department of Education has received significant feedback from throughout Minnesota. To provide time to review all of the public comments, the department is building more time into the process of revising the standards. The Social Studies Standards Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, February 2, is canceled. The second draft of Social Studies Standards will be published later this spring. This will provide the time needed to thoroughly review the feedback received. The next Social Studies Standards Committee meeting will be held Thursday, March 25. Watch the social studies standards page for updates on the Social Studies Standards revision process, future public comment periods, and meetings. With the extended time period to provide time for feedback, review and revision, the final draft of the standards will not be completed until fall of 2021.

There are also two bills working their way through the MN House and Senate. One calls for the complete disbandment of the committee, while the other calls for a halt in activities until next year. There was also a bill introduced to completely stop ALL standards review. It is not known at the moment if any of these bills has enough support to make it to the Governor.

Online Relicensure Webinars

With the cancellation of MELT, I have had a handful of teachers contact me looking for places to watch webinars to meet relicensure requirements. Be mindful of any "free" professional development websites. Many are filled with advertisements and/or not good quality. I have been recommending the following resources:

ASCD - ASCD is one of the leaders in professional development for education.

MDE - Minnesota Department of Education offers training on a variety of topics throughout the year.

Learning Forward - Need to be a member to access, but membership is not too expensive

Always check with your local continuing education committee to ensure the webinars meet your local requirements.

Resources

Relationship Article

Many of our students are back in the classroom. One of the most prominent phrases I hear from teachers is, "The kids are so happy to back with their classmates." You can really tell the kids lacked peer to peer relationships throughout distance learning. Now that most are back, we also need to remember those that continue with distance learning. How are we creating relationships with those students? How are we helping foster the peer to peer relationships. Edutopia provided a great article by Liz Kolb, titled A Focus on Relationships When Students Aren't Together. The article provides some good activities for teachers to reach those students at ta distance. Give it a read today!

Editing Videos in Google Slides

I was recently asked about how to shorten a video that is stored in Google Drive. There are different options for this. You can upload the video to YouTube and use the YouTube studio editor. You could also use another web application like WeVideo. While researching the topic more, I also found another way to edit Google Drive videos; use Google Slides! Check out this post from Jeffrey Bradbury on how to do it. Sometimes the most complicated problems have the simplest solutions.

MRVED Update - February 3, 2021

MRVED Business

Upcoming Meetings

February 5, 2021 - Principals' Council 

February 10, 2021 - MRVED Board

February 19, 2021 - Title III Teachers

February 24, 2021 - Superintendents' Council

MDE Science Call with MRVED Recap

John Olson from MDE met with MRVED teachers on January 18. John talked about implementation timelines and standards rollout.

John shared the following documents

MDE Science Documents

Social Studies Standards Update

The 2nd draft of new Minnesota Social Studies standards was scheduled to be released sometime in February has been delayed until spring. MDE cites the reason for the delay is for MDE and the committee to review a "significant" number of public comments. With this delay, it was subsequently delay the final adoption of the standards into next school year. The first draft of the standards can be found by going to the MDE Social Studies website. It is high recommended that if you are a teacher and/or parent of school-aged children that you review the document to become fully informed of the proposed changes. The next public comment period will be available after the review of the 2nd draft this spring.

Hot Topics

Grading During the Pandemic

Talking with educators, one of the common questions many people are wrestling with is "How do I grade kids during the pandemic?" With gaps in learning, kids at different spots academically, some kids learning from at home, etc...How do you fairly grade everyone and everything? Below you will find a short, but powerful article from Joe Feldman and Doug Reeves.

ASCD Educational Leadership Article on Grading

Children's Screen Time Has Soared During the Pandemic

The headline is probably not shocking to anyone, but as we revert back to "normalcy" what effect has all this screen time had on our kids? The New York Times published an article in mid January about this very topic. It is a very thought-provoking piece, one that has ramifications in the classroom. How do we "detox" our kids from their screen time addiction?

Children's Screen Time Has Soared During the Pandemic - Matt Richtel

Technology

13 Virtual Games to Play in Your Elementary Classroom

Now that many of our elementary schools are back to in-person learning, the question now shifts to, "How can we utilize the at home devices effectively in our classrooms"? Here is a great article from Emelina Minero from Edutopia with 13 virtual games for the elementary classroom.

https://www.edutopia.org/article/13-virtual-games-play-your-elementary-classroom

MRVED Update - January 13, 2021

MRVED Business

Upcoming Meetings:

January 15, 2021 - Title III Teachers 

January 27, 2021 - Superintendents' Council

January 28, 2021 - Teacher Advisory Council

February 5, 2021 - Principals' Council

Science Standard Implementation Conversation with MDE

John Olson, from the Minnesota Department of Education will be providing outreach to our MRVED school districts on Monday, January 18th, starting at 1:00 PM. John will be going over a timeline for implementation of the new science standards and answer any and all questions you may have about implementation of the science standards.

If you would like to join the conversation, and your administrator has not already set something up or shared the link with you, please let Brandon (braymo@mrved.net) know.

Articles

COVID Teaching - What is here to stay?

This pandemic has changed the way in which we "do" education. It often has me thinking; "What is here to stay? What are we going to dump when we are back fully in-person?" This article from Edutopia provides some great talking points.

Has the Pandemic Ushered in New Norms in Education?

Talking to Kids About Tragic Events

The events of last week at the Capitol can be tough to talk about with kids. Events like the attack on the Capitol are politically charged, emotional events. How much do we share with kids? How do we talk to them about the event without letting your political emotions show? This CNN article offers some great advice.

10 tips for talking to your kids about the attack on the Capitol

SEL

TED Talk

I came across this great TED talk from Caige Jambor on how social emotional learning benefits everyone. Take 10 minutes and watch today!

Technology

Tech Tip - Jamboard

Jamboard has been featured before, but it is worth repeating. Jamboard is an AWESOME whiteboard app from Google. You can set up multiple whiteboard for your classes to accomplish group work or do multi-step activities. Jamboard works great if you have kids in class or at home. If you haven't used Jamboard yet, check it out today!

10 Jamboard Templates from Ditch That Textbook (guest post by Kris Szajner)

MRVED Update - November 6, 2019

MRVED Business

Upcoming Meetings

November 13, 2019 - Community Education Directors
November 15, 2019 - Principals' Council & Teacher Advisory Council Joint Meeting
November 27, 2019 - Superintendents' Council

MELT Information

The annual MELT conference is fast approaching and the MRVED has been busy making arrangements for the big day!  The MELT will be held on January 20, 2020 at the LqPV High School.  Registration will open on December 10, 2019 and will close on December 19, 2019.  Please remember to register early as sessions will fill up fast!!  There are new sessions offered this year as well as some popular sessions from years past.  Some groups will also have the opportunity to network.

We will be sending out the MELT brochure a couple days prior to sending out the open registration link.  This allows people to set their schedule (and alternative sessions if your top sessions are full) and read through the descriptions prior to registering.  This seems to work well.  

The MELT brochure will be sent to you on Thursday, December 5th.  The registration link will open on Tuesday, December 10th at 7:30 a.m.  Your principal will forward you the email with the brochure and registration link.  Principals, please keep your eyes out for this email and send it out as soon as possible.  The registration link will also be available on our MRVED website under "Latest News" - www.mrved.com.

We CANNOT stress enough the importance of registering as early as possible.  Some sessions fill quickly; therefore, the later you register, the greater the risk of not being able to get into those sessions.  Once you register for your sessions, you will not be able to switch sessions.  With over 650 registrants, it becomes difficult making all of those changes correctly.  Thank you for your understanding.

MELT Networking Facilitators Sign-Up

The MRVED is looking for facilitators of networking groups  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 interests.  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 3:00 PM on November 21.  If you have any questions or cannot access the form, please contact Brandon (braymo@mrved.net)

MELT NETWORKING FACILITATOR SIGN UP LINK

Professional Development - New Science Standards

The Minnesota Department of Education will provide webinars and workshops on the new Science Standards to help districts, schools, teachers, administrators, informal educators and other science education providers prepare to implement the new science standards. This message and any updates are at: http://bit.ly/ScienceWorkshops2019. For questions contact John.C.Olson@state.mn.us 651-582-8673.

Webinars: Introducing the 2019 Minnesota Science Standards

This one-hour webinar will include the foundational ideas that informed the standards, the structure of the standards, and a suggested timeline for implementation. Upon registration the connection information will be sent via email.

Nov. 21, 8 a.m. Registration link
Nov. 21, 3:30 p.m. Registration link

Workshops: Preparing to Implement the New Science Standards

The 2019 K-12 Minnesota Science Standards envision new approaches to teaching and learning science. Learn about the pedagogy associated with the new standards, the timeline for implementation, and ways to prepare to teach the standards. This workshop is targeted for K-12 teachers of science and other science educators. John Olson, Science Specialist at the Minnesota Department of Education, will facilitate this workshop.

The tentative agenda is:

• Foundational ideas that informed the new standards
• Example of instruction
• Development and organization of MN standards
• Analyzing a benchmark and selecting phenomena for instruction
• Implementation timeline for the new standards
• Resources

There is no fee for the workshop, however no food is provided. So bring beverages, snacks and lunch if needed. Bring a laptop or tablet to access the slides, standards, and resources.

There is a facility limit to the number of people that can attend, so registration is first come/first served. Registration closes three business days before the event or when full. Persons registered by one week in advance will receive directions to the facility and the agenda. Registration Form, For questions contact John.C.Olson@state.mn.us 651-582-8673

Current list of Confirmed Workshops:

Nov. 18, 8 AM - noon - Roseville, Minnesota Department of Education
Dec. 2, 9 AM - 3 PM - Rochester, Southeast Service Cooperative
Dec. 3, 9 AM - 3 PM - Redwood Falls - FULL, Registration closed
Dec. 4, 9 AM - 3 PM - Redwood Falls Community Center
Dec. 6, 9 AM - 3 PM - Mankato, Southcentral Service Cooperative
Dec. 9, 9 AM - 3 PM - Fergus Falls, Lakes Country Service Cooperative
Dec. 10, 9 AM - 3 PM - Thief River Falls, Northwest Service Cooperative
Dec. 11, 9 AM - 3 PM - Staples, Sourcewell
Dec. 12, 9 AM - 3 PM - Mountain Iron, Northeast Service Cooperative
Dec. 16, 9 AM - 3 PM - Roseville, Minnesota Department of Education

To be determined

• St. Cloud area
• SW metro area (a Saturday workshop)

Book Study

Lead Like a Pirate - Chapters 10-12

Chapters 10 & 11 talk primarily about people.  Shelley Burgess, similarly to Dave Burgess, talks about putting the importance in the people, not the programs.  As ultimately, it is the people that need to work with the programs and carry though with the programs.  The programs, curriculum, etc... are only successful because of the people.  There is a great quote from chapter 10 that says, "programs don't teach kids; teachers do, and teachers are capable of making magic happen for kids" (Burgess, 94).

Chapter 11 talks about getting the right people on the ship.  This is crucial in anything you do with a team.  Burgess talks at length about filling openings with the right people and using good interview questions to see which candidates rise to the top.  If we take this out of the school setting, we can see the importance of putting the right people on the ship with you in any team task.  It's not only important for them to be on the ship, but they must also know where they are headed.  This can be accomplished by setting a clear mission/vision and being very explicit in your goals.

Chapter 12 was one of the most impactful chapters for me.  It's all about managing time.  The title of the chapter is "If it's important...make time for it".  A common excuse/reason I hear, and have said myself is, "I don't have time for that".  What is really being said is, "I don't think that is important, therefore I am not going to designate time for it".  Because if something was truly important, and there was value in it, time would be made for it.  It seems as though our schedules are all jam-packed with professional and personal obligations.  If we were to examine our time more wisely, or learn to creatively schedule, there really is time in your schedule somewhere.  I was watching an episode of Shark Tank recently and Robert Herjavec was talking about time management and was asked the question, "Why do you only sleep 3-4 hours a night", his answer was simple "because everything I do is important and I want to get it all in every day".  He is finding time for the things that are important in his life.

MRVED Update - April 3, 2019

MRVED Business

Upcoming Meetings

April 12th - Title III Teachers
April 18th - MRVED Common Inservice Day
April 24th - Superintendents' Advisory Council
April 24th - MRVED Board Meeting

April 18th Common Inservice Day

The spring MRVED Common Inservice Day will be held on April 18, 2019, at the Dawson-Boyd Schools. You will be welcomed with coffee, juice, and muffins to begin your day. The day will consist of attending one session for the entire morning and the afternoon will be time with your district, determined by your administrator. The choices for the morning sessions are: Social Emotional Learning, Teach Like a Pirate, and Structured Unconference. Registration is now CLOSED and no changes can be made to your lunch choice.

Closer to the inservice date, you will receive an email with detailed information including the school's address, which to door to enter, and other information. Please read this carefully. When you arrive, your meal ticket and agenda will be in the commons area at the registration table.

We look forward to seeing everyone on April 18th!

(Please Note: Districts not participating in the inservice due to a school make-up day: Minneota/Ivanhoe, Ortonville, YME)

MRVED - Did You Know

The MRVED has hosted the MELT conference for over 15 years.  Throughout the years the conference has morphed into what it is today.  Today there are around 100 sessions for educators to choose from.  The topics range from the latest drug trends to the newest technology.  One of the goals of the MRVED is to efficiently use resources to accomplish goals.  The MELT is accomplished for $12 per teacher.  To put this in perspective, the TIES conference registration costs $389.  If we were to send everyone in the MRVED to the TIES conference, the total cost would be around $252,000, just for conference registration.  The MELT is put on for around $7,000!

What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?

Social Emotional Learning or SEL has been a big buzzword in education over the past few years.  It's something we are hearing more and more of, but what is SEL and why is it important.  The short video below does an excellent job of explaining the what & why.

SEL Edutopia Resources

Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL)

MCA-IV Science Test Specs Committee

The Minnesota Department of Education is looking for educators to serve on a committee charged with creating the test specifications for the new science test.

This committee will be comprised of K-12 teacher leaders who will use their expertise to help develop assessment boundaries for the new 2019 Minnesota science standards. Committee selection will emphasize balance of demographics, grade levels, and content areas. The committee will meet for a total of 7 days starting on August 6-8, 2019 at MDE in Roseville and continuing through the spring of 2020. Committee members must commit to attending all meetings. The meeting dates are as follows:

· August 6-8, 2019

· October 29-30, 2019

· March 3-4, 2020

You will receive an honorarium and per diem for your travel expenses as needed.

If you are interested in being considered for this committee, enter your information in the form on the link below by April 12, 2019.

MCA-IV Science Test Specs Committee Application

Tech Tip of the Week - Automastery

If you use Google Forms in your classroom, this is an Add-On for you!  Automastery is awesome and a great way to differentiate.  Maryellen West did a fabulous job!  Check out the write-up from the website.

AutoMastery is a Google Forms Add-On that allows the Form owner to send students assignments based on their score on a Google Form. The owner sets a mastery level score and a beginner level score in a Google Form and sets what link respondents will receive via email with an assignment based on their scores.

Quiz takers will fall into one of three grade categories: Mastery, Progressing, and Beginner.

If a student has mastered the material and scores at or above the Mastery Score you set, he or she will be assigned an extension activity as set by the teacher.

A student who scores above the Beginner Score, but below the Mastery Score, will be sent a progressing assignment, set by the teacher, to bring them to mastery level.
​
A student not reaching the Beginner Score will be sent a comprehensive assignment, as set by the teacher.

Ditch That Textbook - Section 3 Part 3

We will take a look at chapters 30-33 in Ditch That Textbook by Matt Miller.  These are simply my thoughts on the chapters and by no means should replace reading the chapters for yourself.

Chapter 30 is titled, Make It.  Plain and simple, if you can't find what you are looking for, make it!  As a teacher, you have some of the best available resources at your fingertips to make whatever you need for your classroom.  If you can't find a video to explain how the letters "t" and "h" go together, gather a group of students and make your own video.  Think about the learning experiences involved in that activity.  We all have awesome cameras built into our cell phones.  We have Google Docs and Microsoft Office products at our fingertips.  Some of the best creation iPad apps offer free or discounted versions for education.  Even if you think you are not creative enough to make something, try!

Miller also talks about staying in touch with students and meeting them in their space.  If your students are on Twitter, join Twitter to see what it's all about.  If your students are Snapchatting, join it and try.  Instead of thinking about how I can block these tools in my classroom, think about how can you harness their power for educational purposes.  It may not be apparent to you right away, but if you think hard enough and creatively enough, you'll find a way.  Social networking is the way of the world today.  Classroom Twitter pages are popping up all over the place.  Teachers are using Instagram to show parents what is going on in their classrooms.  Schools are creating Snapchat filters and Twitter hashtags to create a virtual showcase of their events.

We have one section left in the book and a conclusion to go.  Once you are done with this book, I encourage you to borrow it to someone during the summer.  But, don't forget who you gave it to because you will want this playbook back to start the year next year.

MRVED Update - January 23, 2019

MRVED Business

January 23, 2019  Superintendents' Council

January 25, 2019  Principals' Council - CANCELLED

February 1, 2019    Title III Teachers

February 13, 2019  MRVED Board (6 p.m.)

February 21, 2019  TAC

February 22, 2019  Principals' Council

February 27, 2019  Superintendents' Council

MELT Recap
Once again we couldn't fully escape the cold and snow, but overall it was a great day of learning.  Around 650 educators participated in the day and great collaboration occurred all day.  The MRVED would like to once again thank Lac qui Parle Valley for being such a great host.  The custodial staff does a fabulous job in preparing the building for 650 people and the kitchen staff prepares a wonderful meal for everyone.  Dave works hard to make sure all the technology is up and running not only throughout the day, but spends a couple hours the weekend prior getting everything ready.  Thank you to the administration and staff for allowing all the educators in your building.  It's not easy coming back into your classroom at the end of the day to see it torn apart.  The MELT committee thanks everyone and even those not mentioned.

MELT Evaluation
The MRVED hopes that all your MELT experience was a great one.  There were some awesome sessions presented throughout the whole day.  Please take a moment to fill out the MELT 2019 Evaluation.  Any and all feedback is appreciated.  The MRVED Teacher Advisory Committee (TAC) looks over the evaluations and makes adjustments to the day based upon the feedback.  The MRVED Principals and Superintendents also look over the evaluations.

MELT Evaluation

Rethinking Time in Schools

This past week I read a Tweet that asked the question, "What if our schools rethought the idea of time and scheduling?  What would it look like in your school?"  This really made me think and I started researching alternative scheduling in schools.  I came across this article on Reimagining the School Day by Meg Benner and Lisette Partelow from the Center for American Progress.  The article provides examples from elementary, to middle school, to high school.  I also stumbled upon this interesting resource as well. unlockingtime.org.  I think school schedules would be a neat PLC topic to investigate.  How do schedules impact student learning?

Testing 1,2,3 From MDE

Testing 1,2,3 is created by the Minnesota Department of Education as a resource to help district better utilize the data they are given.  The quote from the website is this:

"Test data is an effective tool for informing instruction. This website is designed to help teachers harness that data by providing helpful ways to understand, interpret and ultimately use test data in the classroom."

A quick browse through the website will give you a better idea of what it is all about.  This site has been in the works for the past couple years and brings many different aspects of MDE's website into one spot.  Bookmark it today!

Tech Tip of the Week - Tilt Brush by Google

In the "this is unbelievable" category, the Tilt Brush by Google is AWESOME!  The Tilt Brush allows you to paint in 3D.  The Tilt Brush itself is not too expensive, but the 3D goggles can get to be a bit expensive.  Check to see if your school has a pair of 3D goggles and then you will want to check out and purchase a Tilt Brush.  Imagine putting this in the hands of our kids and the things they can create!

Ditch That Textbook - Part 2 (Chapter 8-13) Ditch That Mindset

Last time we looked at the first part on "Why Go Digital" in the book Ditch That Textbook by Matt Miller.  If you still have not gotten the book, I highly, highly, suggest it!  There are SO many great ideas in this book, it really can help you transform your teaching.

We will now look at chapters 8-13 in the section titled "Ditch That Mindset".  Miller talks about a variety of things in these chapters so I'll do my best to summarize my learning.

Miller talks about making learning personal for kids.  Find a way to connect the content to something relevant in their world.  There are many parallels we can make in almost every content area.  Think about events in their worlds such as, birthday parties, prom, homecoming, jump rope for heart, etc...  Anytime you can personalize learning and connect real-life to content, kids tend to retain that information better.  It also makes learning interesting for kids.

Chapter 9 talks about making learning fun. Miller mentions the works of Dave Burgess, which the MRVED had the awesome opportunity to see this past fall.  Basically, do what you can to involve your kids in the learning and make it fun for them.  Think how boring life would be if school wasn't fun!

Miller continues to talk about building relationships with kids.  He mentions that some days you do need to be a kids friend because you are all he/she has.  Building positive relationships with kids really does make everything else in the book so much easier.  If kids respect and trust you, they will take risks with you.  They will help you when you fail.  They will encourage you, much like you encourage them.

The last part to these chapters talks about integrating the technology.  Chapters 12 & 13 go hand-in-hand with what I have been talking about the past five years.  Choose task over tool and utilize the SAMR model.  I compare the task over tool portion to the "Golden Why" by Simon Sinek with the learning objective in the middle as the "why" the tasks in the second ring as the "how" and the tools on the outside as the "what".  Lesson plan from the inside out...What is my learning goal?  Then, what task do I need to do to accomplish that goal?  Lastly, what tool will I use to accomplish both.

Welcome Back

Welcome Back!

Welcome back to school!  We hope that your summer was relaxing and rejuvenating.  2017-18 is going to be the best school year ever.  We can't wait to interact with the 650+ teachers of the MRVED in the coming school year.

This year is going to be an AWESOME year as a MRVED.  One of the highlights this year is that we have not one, but TWO top-notch big name speakers coming to speak to us.  This Fall Kayla Delzer will be in attendance at our first common in-service day.  If you have not seen or heard Kayla, she is phenomenal and you are in for a real treat.  You can check out her website HERE.  More information will be coming about the October common day soon, in the meantime, here is her TEDx talk from 2015.

Then, this Spring, George Couros will be keynoting our Spring common in-service day.  Couros is another rock star presenter that delivers a great message to all educators.  You can find more information about him HERE, or check out his TEDx talk from 2013.

We also can't forget that MELT 2018 is going to be the best yet!  Featuring some of our very own rock star teachers sharing and showing inspiring things happening in their classrooms.

We can't wait for all the great opportunities we have before us this year.

#weareMRVED

#WeAreMRVED

For those of you on Twitter, we are encouraging the use of the hashtag #WeAreMRVED to promote great things happening in your school or classroom.  If your classroom or school uses Twitter give us a follow and we will follow you back.

@MNRVED

Arts Standards Review Process

Are you interested in helping to review and revise Minnesota’s K-12 arts standards? Consider joining the Arts Standards Review Committee! Before applying to the committee, please read the Assumptions for Guiding the Standards Committee’s Work and the Standards Review Timeline documents posted below. Serving on the committee requires an intense time commitment of at least one two-day and nine full-day committee meetings from October 2017 through May 2018. The initial two-day meeting is scheduled for October 30-31, 2017, at the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), and is required of all committee members. Applications will be accepted August 22-September 19, 2017. Committee members will be announced on the MDE website on September 29, 2017.

MDE and the Perpich Center for Arts Education will cover mileage costs for all committee members as well as meal and lodging costs for those travelling from great distances. MDE and the Perpich Center for Arts Education also will cover the cost of substitutes for all teachers selected for the committee. For more information about the standards review process, contact Alina Campana (763-279-4183).
Minnesota Department of Education Website

Tech Tip - SeeSaw

If you have been looking for a way to use the tablets in your classroom?  Look no further than SeeSaw.  SeeSaw is an AWESOME App that allows students to capture their work and then easily submit to the teacher.  SeeSaw is great for K-12, but probably geared more toward the Elementary level.  If you think signing in to the app will be an issue for the kids, it's not.  You can setup your class list and student log in is a breeze.  Students can also scan a QR code or create their own accounts, depending on age.  The app works if students have their own device, or if you have a classroom set.  It does not matter your age group or how your devices are distributed, this app works in ALL environments!  Teachers who have used this app, absolutely love it!  It's free, give it a try right away this 1st quarter.

Innovator's Mindset

For the past couple years we have highlighted a couple books in the MRVED Update.  Last year we looked at What Great Teachers Do Differently by Todd Whitaker.  This year we will examine The Innovator's Mindset by George Couros.  Couros will be the keynote speaker for our common in-service date in March 2018.

I highly recommend purchasing the book The Innovator's Mindset and following along as we examine a chapter for each MRVED Update this year.  This book is amazing and could possibly change the way you approach your classroom on a day to day basis.  Give it a try, you will not be disappointed.

MDE Resources

MDE Resources
Holly Brunson, Outreach and Training Specialist from MDE spent the day at the MRVED last week.  She showed the many different data centers MDE has available to users and how to use them.  She also shared a couple resources that should be shared.

MCA Released Items - MCA test questions that have been retired from the test bank.  Currently only math available.

MCA Advisory Panel - Serve on a committee for creating quality test questions for the various content areas.  Great opportunity to see how the MCA tests are created.

Statewide Longitudinal Education Data System (SLEDS) - Variety of data points from PreK-Post Secondary.

Achievement Level Descriptors - Describe what Exceeds, Meets, Partial, and Does Not Meet looks like.

Learn to Use the MDE Data Center

When: May 4, 2017

Where: MRVED Conference Room

Time: 10:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Audience: All Educators

Lunch: Provided

What:

Holly Brunson
MDE Outreach and Training Specialist
Division of Statewide Tests

Holly will be conducting a training to highlight:
- the interactive data systems within the Data Center
- the various reports generated from the Minnesota assessments and resources

This will be an interactive presentation so participants are encouraged to bring their laptops or a device to follow along with.  For more information about the day and to register, click on the link to the flyer below.

Click Here for Flyer

February Science Update from MDE

The February Edition of the MDE Science Update includes:

News

• MnSTA position statement of elementary science
• Minnesotan receives national teaching award

Teacher events

• Spring and summer workshops

Teacher and School Awards and Programs

• Presidential Award
• Chemical disposal

School Programs

• Scientists in the Classroom
• Field Trips

Student Programs

• Student competitions
• Summer programs

MDE Science Update

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.

Report on 1:1 Device Programs Best Practices in K-12 Education

1:1 Report
The Minnesota Department of Education as directed by the legislature has released an interesting study on 1:1 initiatives in the state of Minnesota.  Doug Paulson did a great job of compiling some usable data our schools can use to guide them in their implementation of not only 1:1 programs, but also general technology integration.  I highly suggest bringing this report to either your technology committee or staff development committee to use when making decisions on professional development geared toward technology.

1:1 Device Programs Best Practices in K-12 Education Report

15-16 MDE Math Leaders Networking Meetings

MN Math Leaders Networking Meetings
MN Math Leaders Networking Meetings are sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) and MN Math Leaders, an affiliate of the Minnesota Council of Teachers of Mathematics (MCTM). The overarching theme for this year is Leading and Coaching to Support Math Pedagogy and Content. This work will be framed through the use of “Math Talks.” The resources we will be using are:

• Making Number Talks Matter: Developing Mathematical Practices and Deepening Understanding, Grades 4-10 by Cathy Humphreys and Ruth Parker
• How Children Learn Number Concepts: A Guide to the Critical Learning Phases by Kathy Richardson

Though you are not required to purchase these books, they are highly recommended and will be referred to in the networking meetings.

Target Audience: Administrators and teacher leaders who are passionate about leading change in mathematics education for all students. The Networking Meetings are open to anyone who is in a department or team, school, or district leadership position. These meetings are designed for leaders to give and receive support.

The goals of these networking sessions include:

• Build capacity for leadership by sharing ideas and collaborating with other MN Math Leaders;
• Receive updates about mathematics education policy and assessment;
• Learn about resources available to support your work.

Dates: (All Networking Meetings will be held at MDE. The room number is on the registration form.)

• October 22, 2015 - Topic: What are Math Talks and Why are They so Important? Terry Wyberg
• December 17, 2015 - Topic: Guiding Principles for Enacting Math Talks in the Classroom
• February 18, 2016 - Topic: Math Talks: Intentional Connections to Standards and Benchmarks
• May 19, 2016 - Topic: Moving Forward: Managing Bumps in the Road

Time: 8:30-11:30

Networking time includes:

• Opportunities to share and celebrate what is working well
• Structures to work in role-a-like and/or grade band groups
• Time for participants to provide their expertise
• Hot topics

Networking meeting agenda:

• Opening and Overview
• Community Building
• Leading and Coaching to Support Math Pedagogy and Content
• Hot Topics
• Closing and Feedback

Fee: No Charge

Registration is required. Visit the MDE calendar to register for each session (http://goo.gl/JUaKFR)

Questions? Please contact: Terry Alvarado 651-582-8749.

Professional Development FAQ

Professional Development FAQ
The Minnesota Department of Education has updated their FAQ on the  professional development statute in Minnesota.  The Document lists a variety of different questions from "What is professional development" to "How can staff development funds be spent".  It is a worthwhile document to look over and become familiar with as it will give you a better grasp of what state statute says about professional development.

MDE Professional Development Link

MDE Math Webinar

Mathematics Webinar for Teachers

Date: February 24, 2015

MDE, in partnership with the Minnesota Council of Teachers of Mathematics (MCTM), is offering webinars designed specifically for K-12 mathematics teachers. Typically the webinars are for K-6 and 6-12 grades; in this case, the same webinar is offered twice at 2:45-3:30 p.m. and 3:45-4:30 p.m.

Each webinar will include a brief update from MDE followed by a presentation by a Minnesota Math Teacher. The February 24 webinar is titled “Identity and Its Impact on Math Success” and will be presented by Nicole Bridge, Middle School Math Coordinator, Minneapolis Public Schools.

Presentation description:
“So often we hear people say things like "I am not a math person," or "I actually liked math in high school." How are these identities formed? How can we help to students to develop positive identity around learning and doing math? This session is meant to be a start to helping teachers think about their own identity around mathematics and the identities of their students. The goal is for participants to leave with a deeper understanding of how to examine their own instructional practices, and strategies to help their students create a positive math identity.” Nicole Bridge

View the MDE Calendar for more info and to register!

View Past Mathematics Webinars

For assistance with questions, email Terry Alvarado.

MDE Science Update

Science Update From MDE
Click the link below to access the Science update from John Olson at the Minnesota Department of Education.

In the update this month:

News

• MCA Item Samplers are now available

Events and Workshops

• MnSTA Conference on Science Education
• Mn STEM Network Conference
• NSTA STEM Expo in Minneapolis

Teacher and School Awards

• Presidential Awards
• Gardening and School program grants

Student Awards and Competitions

• National Youth Science Camp

Science Update Link

Math Leader Networking Meeting

February 12, 2015 MATH LEADERS MEETING

Mathematics Leaders Networking Meetings -- TOPIC: Assessments and Interventions

8:30-11:30am at MN Department of Education Conference Center A, Room 14

As part of this meeting Nicole Bridge from Minneapolis Public Schools, will present “I’m not a Math Person:" Identity and Its Impact on Math Success

We will also have an opportunity for participants to network around 3 essential questions in Formative Assessment

• Where are we going? Do teachers and students know the standards?
• How are we doing? How do we assess student understanding and give feedback?
• What’s the next step? Enrichment? Intervention? A new concept 

The MN Math Leaders networking meetings are designed for leaders to give and receive support. The Networking time includes:

• opportunities to share and celebrate what is working well
• structures to work in role-a-like and/or grade band groups regarding previously selected topics
• time for participants to provide their expertise
• "hot topics" identified by the participants at the beginning of each meeting

There will also be open time following each meeting for continued work in self-identified groups.

The goals of these networking meetings include:

• Share ideas and collaborate with other MN Math Leaders
• Receive updates about mathematics education policy
• Learn about resources available to support your work

This event is open to anyone who is in a department, school, or district leadership position. Administrators and teacher leaders who are passionate about leading change in mathematics education for all students are encouraged to attend!

It is recommended that participants purchase the book, "NCTM Principles to Actions", available at www.nctm.org as an ebook for $4.99 ($3.99 for NCTM members). One of the topics for each of the networking meetings will use readings and resources from this book.

Register for February 12 Meeting

MRVED Business

Best Practice Meeting Updates
English Language Arts
The English Language Arts educators gathered at the MRVED on Tuesday December 2nd for their annual best practice meeting.  The room was filled with 34 teachers ranging from Kindergarten to 12th grade teachers.  The morning started with Brandon sharing some of the latest and greatest web tools for the classroom, which transitioned nicely into a session on the SAMR model.  The group had the opportunity to talk about creating a lesson through the SAMR model.  The morning ended with aligning their standards and curriculum K-12.  After lunch they finished their curriculum work and met in networking groups.  The group did an excellent job of networking, sharing many new resources for the classroom.  The day ended with a grading practice activity.  Overall it was another great day with almost every teacher bringing something new back to the classroom.

World Language
The World Language teachers attended their annual best practice meeting on Thursday, December 4th.  The day started with networking and discussing issues related to World Languages.  After that, the group had the opportunity to spend the rest of the day with their Minnesota Department of Education specialist Ursula Lentz.  The teachers had the opportunity to hear and learn from her.  Ms. Lentz has a wealth of knowledge in the realm of World Languages and it was a great day for everyone.

Best Practice Meetings
December 10, 2014  MRVED Board (7 p.m.)
December 12, 2014   Title III Teachers
December 15, 2014  District Assessment Coordinators (DAC)
December 16, 2014  FACS
December 17, 2014  Superintendents' Council
December 18, 2014  Teachers' Advisory Council (TAC)
December 19, 2014  Principals' Council (starting at 11:30 a.m.)

MN Math Leaders Networking

The MN Math Leaders networking meetings are designed for leaders to give and receive support. The Networking time includes:

• opportunities to share and celebrate what is working well.
• structures to work in role-a-like and/or grade band groups regarding previously selected topics.
• time for participants to provide their expertise.
• "hot topics" identified by the participants at the beginning of each meeting.

There will also be open time following each meeting for continued work in self-identified groups. The goals of these networking meetings include:

• Share ideas and collaborate with other MN Math Leaders
• Receive updates about mathematics education policy
• Learn about resources available to support your work

This event is open to anyone who is in a department, school, or district leadership position. Administrators and teacher leaders who are passionate about leading change in mathematics education for all students are encouraged to attend! All meetings will be held at the Minnesota Department of Education, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Check below links for conference room details.

It is recommended that participants purchase the book, "NCTM Principles to Actions," available at http://www.nctm.org/ as an e-book for $4.99 ($3.99 for NCTM members). One of the topics for each of the networking meetings will use readings and resources from this book.

• October 23, 2014 – Topic: Achievement Gap, Equity, and Mindset. Register Online.
• December 11, 2014 – Topic: Technology and Differentiation. Register Online.
• February 12, 2015 – Topic: Assessments and Interventions. Register Online.
• May 14, 2015 – Topic: Coaching, Cognitively Guided Instruction, and Problem Solving. Register Online.

For assistance with questions, contact Terry Alvarado (terry.alvarado@state.mn.us).MN

Apply to be a Green School

Apply for the US Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools award. This award honors public and private early childhood, elementary, middle and high schools and school districts that are exemplary in all three of the following areas:

• Reducing environmental impact
• Improving health and wellness
• Providing effective environmental education

Awardees receive a plaque and a flag for the school, local recognition, and an invitation to the national ceremony in Washington, DC. The awards are announced annually on Earth Day and the national award ceremony occurs in the summer.

Applying for the award provides an opportunity to analyze energy and water usage, waste reduction and transportation. Schools review the strategies that promote healthy practices by students and teachers. In addition, teachers examine their curriculum for instruction in environmental concepts, skills and careers. In the process members from various sectors of the school community collaborate to improve their efforts toward sustainability.

The application for Minnesota schools and local information is available from John Olson, MDE Science Specialist, John.C.Olson@state.mn.us, 651-582-8673. The application is due December 18th. Information about the Green Ribbon Schools program is at www2.ed.gov/programs/green-ribbon-schools. Minnesota information is at the Mn Dept. of Education Green Ribbon Schools page.

There will be information and assistance webinars on:

November 6, 3 – 4 pm
November 12, 4 – 5 pm
December 2, 3:30– 4:30 pm

Contact John Olson for login details.

Click here to see the flyer.