MRVED Update - March 17, 2021

MRVED Business

Upcoming Meetings

March 18, 2021 - Title III (Virtual)

March 19, 2021 - Principals' Council (Virtual)

March 25, 2021 - Superintendents' Council

April 1, 2021 - MRVED Common Inservice (Virtual)

April 1 Common 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.

Professional Learning Opportunities

The Hormel Foundation Gifted and Talented Symposium

The annual Hormel Foundation Gifted and Talented Education Symposium provides an opportunity for educators, counselors, administrators and parents to gain greater understanding of the unique needs of gifted and high potential learners. Participants attend in-depth sessions focusing on foundational knowledge, creativity, curriculum strategies, and social/emotional needs of gifted and high potential learners provided by the field's finest regionally, nationally and internationally recognized presenters. All are welcome to register and attend the symposium.

When: June 15-17, 2021

Where: Virtual

Registration: $100

Website & Registration Link

What Have We Learned From COVID - 1 Year Later

As we soar past the 1 year anniversary of COVID-19 shutting down our schools, I have begun pondering the question, "What have we learned?" I have also wondered what aspects of COVID teaching will we take with us into the future? What things will we leave behind? What shifts have we made? The questions go on and on. As I was thinking about this, a very succinct article about this very topic scrolled past my Twitter feed, so I thought I would share it here. I would like to hear your thoughts about what we have learned one year later.

Five Things we Learned about Schools during the Pandemic by Chalkbeat

Resources

Supporting Students During the Derek Chauvin Trial

The upcoming trial of Derek Chauvin might be one of the biggest trials in the lives of your students. This case has the potential to be as big as the OJ Simpson case, although the contents of the trial are much different. The one thing we, as educators, need to remain cognizant of is how different groups of people will react to the trial and eventually the verdict. Some people will simply ignore the trial and not want to talk about it in their classrooms. Others will see this trial as a teachable moment for our students. With the contents of the trial being racially charged, it's important that we provide accurate information as it is presented. Intermediate District 287 has put together a variety of resources about supporting students through the trial. The bottom line is that as educators, we don't need to force our opinions of the trial on to our students. Our job is to support them through their emotions about the trial as well as provide them with accurate information. You can sign-up to receive updates about the trial by going to the trial website.

New Test Specifications for English Language Arts & Science

With new standards released the past couple years in Science and English Language Arts (ELA), means a new MCA test eventually. The ELA test will first be administered in the 2024-25 school year and the first administration of the Science test will be the 2023-24 school year. With each test, MDE must create a test specifications document. This document in the legislatively controlled document that guides the test creation. You can access the drafts of the new ELA and Science Test Specifications below. Please note, both documents are still considered to be in "draft".

Reading Test Specifications

Science Test Specifications

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 - September 9, 2020

Upcoming Meetings

September 9, 2020 - MRVED Board Meeting (Virtual)

September 17, 2020 - Teachers' Advisory Council Meeting (Virtual)

September 18, 2020 - Principals' Advisory Council Meeting (Virtual)

September 23, 2020 - Superintendents' Council Meeting

September 25, 2020 - Title III Teachers' Meeting

Welcome Back

Welcome back to the 2020-2021 school year! We hope you had a rejuvenating summer and were able to put school in the rearview mirror for a little while. Last year was tough and this year looks to be just as difficult. Please know that the MRVED is here to provide support for you and your district wherever/whenever we can. If there is anything we can do, please do not hesitate to ask. Many times, if we don't have the expertise to help in a certain area, we can direct you to someone who does. Although this year looks to be just as challenging as last school year, know that you are surrounded by many people that support the tough work you are doing every day.

As with everything else, the MRVED Common In-Service days will most likely look a little different. The October date will feature a keynote message by Carla Tantillo Philibert. More information will be coming on the October date. The MELT Conference in January will still happen, however it will look different and offer virtual options. The April 1 date is a long ways off and our Teacher Advisory Council will be developing a plan throughout this fall.

The MRVED Common In-Service Dates

October 14, 2020 - Virtual

January 18, 2021 - MELT (TBD)

April 1, 2021 - TBD

MRVED Paraprofessional Conference Recap

On August 19, 2020, the MRVED hosted their first ever virtual conference for the paraprofessionals. The day started with a keynote by Carla Tantillo Philibert from Mindful Practices. Carla spoke about the importance of SEL and provided the paraprofessionals with a handful of awesome strategies they can use with their students. Teachers will have the opportunity to see Carla virtually during the October common inservice. After the keynote, the paraprofessionals participated in a handful of breakout sessions from trauma to good posture when working online to math and reading support. Overall the day went really well. The MRVED staff learned much about hosting a virtual conference and look to make improvements for each event. A huge thank you to our presenters, participants, and Katie in the MRVED office for handling registration and questions. You are all ROCKSTARS!

Minnesota Standards Update

Minnesota is in the middle of a massive standard review process. I thought it worthwhile to take a look at where each content area is at on the Minnesota Department of Education Timeline

Arts - Revised in 2018 - Was making its way through rulemaking to determine implementation. 2018 Standards

Science - Revised in 2019. Approved by the commissioner in 2020. Still in rulemaking to determine implementation. Commissioner recommends full implementation by 2023-24. 2019 Standards

Language Arts - Revised in 2020. Awaiting commissioner approval. Implementation will be made in rulemaking this year. 2020 ELA Standards Draft

Social Studies - Revised this year. Review Timeline

Math - Will be revised in 2021. 

Physical Education - Revised/adopted SHAPE America's in 2017. Reviewed every 10 years.

Health, Career and Technical Education, and World Languages - Established locally

Distance Learning Tool of the Week - Google Meet Breakout Rooms

If you are looking for a way to do breakout rooms within Google Meet, try the Google Meet Breakout Rooms extension. If you are looking for more information on how this works, join the Google Meet Breakout Rooms Facebook Group or visit the website.

MRVED Update - January 22, 2019

MRVED Business

Upcoming Meetings

January 22, 2020 - Superintendents' Council
January 24, 2020 - Principals' Council
January 31, 2020 - Title III Teachers
February 6, 2020 - Substitute Teacher Training
February 12, 2020 - MRVED Board

MELT Recap & Evaluation

MELT 2020 is now in the rearview mirror.  Once again, the conference was a huge success.  Over 650 teachers graced the hallways of Lac qui Parle Valley High School and attended over 100 sessions.  Many of the sessions were led by some of our own awesome teachers, counselors, principals, social workers, etc...  Our hope is that you were able to grow as an educator through your sessions.

If you have not done so already, please take the time to fill out the Evaluation for the day.  Our Teacher Advisory Committee uses the information from the evaluations to make decisions on future professional development opportunities.  We appreciate any and all feedback.

Thank you to all that participated and presented.  A special thank you to all of Lac qui Parle Valley for the hospitality and hard work in getting things ready for the day.  LqPV does an excellent job!

Public Review Period for MCA-IV Test Specifications for Science

As a result of the 2019 revisions to the Minnesota K-12 Academic Standards in Science, the Science Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment-Series IV (Science MCA-IV) will begin assessing these standards in the spring of 2024. In collaboration with a committee of Minnesota educators, MDE has drafted the Science MCA-IV Test Specifications to assist with the development of the new assessments.

Members of the public are encouraged to review the proposed MCA-IV Draft Test Specifications for Science and provide feedback through the Science MCA-IV Test Specifications Feedback Survey. The survey will be open until February 17, 2020. Your feedback is important in creating the best assessment possible for all Minnesota students. A copy of the survey questions is available to review and discuss with colleagues before entering your individual or group survey responses.

Professional Development

The Today Show recently featured the story from Lucy Laney Elementary School in North Minneapolis.  I highly recommend watching both the Today Show clip as well as taking the time to watch the documentary Love Them First.  The documentary is grabbing national attention and shining a spotlight on SEL in our schools.

Today Show clip
Love Them First

Book Study

Sanctuaries - Introduction and Section 1 - Sanctuaries

As we begin our journey through the book Sanctuaries by Dan Tricarico, I highly suggest purchasing the book and following along.  The book is about self-care secrets for stressed-out teachers.  It provides strategies for teachers in taking care of themselves.  During this book study, I will highlight some of my favorite points in the chapters and by no means is a substitute for not reading the book.  I would love to hear your feedback and experiences as well.

Tricarico starts by telling us why self-care is so important.  As teachers, I think we are well aware of teacher burnout and why our burnout rate is so high.  Teaching is such a personable and stressful profession.  We all have stories about teachers, and good teachers at that, that have left the profession due to the stresses.  A great quote in the introduction is, "Your well-being and the success of your students, relies, in many ways, on your ability to thrive - not simply survive" (Tricarico, iii).

I'm going to summarize the first section of this book in 1 paragraph, please note there is SO much more in this reading.

We need to find and recognize our own "sanctuaries", that is a place of refuge and protection.  This can be a physical place or an emotional place.  Some people go for a run to find their sanctuary, and some people simply want to sit in front of a TV.  We need to know where our sanctuary is, so you can go to that place during a stressful time.  You also need to be intentional about your self-care.  He says, "If you want to treat yourself better..., you must do it on purpose and by choice" (Tricarico, 7).  Then you need to give yourself permission to take care of yourself.  If your sanctuary is running, and you have a plan to run and are intentional about it, you also need to tell yourself that it is OK to take the time to do it.  Tricarico says you also need to put this permission in writing and give yourself a permission slip to do it.  By doing this, you are more likely to actually do it!

Again, there is so much more in these chapters, my goal is to get you thinking about your own self-care.  Start a conversation at your school today.

1. Where is your sanctuary(ies)?

2. How can you be intentional about your self-care?

MRVED Update - January 8, 2020

MRVED Business

Upcoming Meetings

January 20, 2020 - MELT @ LqPV High School
January 22, 2020 - Superintendents' Council
January 24, 2020 - Principals' Council
January 31, 2020 - Title III Teachers

MELT Information

MELT 2020 is fast approaching!  If you have not registered yet, please contact Katie (kraymo@mrved.net) at the MRVED office to do so immediately.

MELT (MRVED Educators Learning Together)  will be held at Lac qui Parle Valley High School.  The conference has over 600 individuals registered with around 100 sessions throughout the day.

Please look over these important points regarding the conference:

• You will enter through "Door #5" (follow the walkway to the left of the eagle statue).  

• Please make sure you stop at the registration table in the commons area to pick up your registration packet (personalized agenda with session selections, room numbers, clock hours, and lunch ticket, if applicable).  It will be in the alcove (by the pop machines) to the right of the doors as you enter.  

• Breakfast will be available when you arrive.  

• The first session will start promptly at 8:40 a.m.

• You are NOT able to switch sessions the day of the conference as the sessions become overcrowded and there may not be enough seating availability. 

•  Please dress in layers; some rooms may be warm, while others may be cool.

• If you are not eating the school lunch, please bring a bag lunch.  

• There will be rooms available for nursing moms; please see Pam Weber in the high school principal's office for availability. 

If the weather is inclement, any cancellation or delay relating to MELT will be posted by 6:00 a.m. on the WCCO website under "Quicklinks/School Closings".  We will be listed under MRVED (just the initials).  This will also be posted on WCCO's TV channel (CBS) and our MRVED website (www.mrved.com) under "Latest News".

Please look for an email a couple days prior to the conference with more specific information regarding the day.

We are looking forward to a great conference!

#WeAreMRVED

Science MCA Test Specification Creation

This year a committee is drafting the test specifications for assessing the new standards. The test specifications document provides directions to the people who will write items for the new MCA. The first draft of the test specification will be available in mid-January. We want your feedback and input through the end of February. The link for the Test Specifications draft and feedback survey will be posted on the MDE Test Specifications webpage. The MCA IV will first be given in spring of 2024. (“MCA IV in ‘24”)

Book Study 

Sanctuaries

For the rest of the year we will be examining the book Sanctuaries by Dan Tricarico.  This book talks strictly about teacher self-care.  Next time we will take a look at the introduction and chapters 1 & 2.

About the Book

A sanctuary is a place of rest and refuge, of safety and sanity. It’s a state of being that enables you to escape the busyness of life. It’s a moment of self-care that puts you at ease. But if you’re like most teachers, that place often seems just out of reach.

In Sanctuaries, Dan Tricarico (author of The Zen Teacher) shares insights and strategies for making space in your busy life so you can be the teacher and person you want to be. You’ll learn how to . . .

• Give yourself permission to take a break
• Be truly present, even when life feels busy
• Practice mindfulness
• Develop systems that make life more manageable

Living in a constant state of “crazy-busy” doesn’t help anyone, least of all you. To be at your best for others, you must first be your own best self, which requires slowing down and becoming aware of–and tending to–your own needs. The simple, practical, and actionable steps Tricarico shares in this guide will empower you to create a sanctuary plan that allows you to experience more peace and less stress–starting today. If The Zen Teacher reminds you to take care of yourself, Sanctuaries shows you how.

Discover your sanctuary.

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 - November 21, 2018

MRVED Business

The annual MELT is fast approaching and the MRVED has been busy making arrangements for the big day. The MELT will be held on January 21, 2019 at the LQPV High School.  Registration will open on December 5th and it will close on December 19th. 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.

Registration
Last year we sent out the MELT brochure a couple days prior to sending the registration link.  This allowed people to set their schedule and read through the descriptions prior to registering.  This seemed to work really well.  The process will be the same this year.  The brochure will come to you on Monday, December 3 from your Principal.  The link to register will come to you on Wednesday, morning from your Principal.  Principals, look for this information from Gloria please.

We cannot stress enough the importance of registering as early as possible.  Some sessions fill really fast, therefore the later you are in registering, the greater the risk of not being able to get into those sessions.

Upcoming Meetings

November 28, 2018  Superintendents’ Council

December 7, 2018 Title III Teachers

December 12, 2018  MRVED Board (6 p.m.)

December 13, 2018 TAC

December 14, 2018 Principals’ Council

December 19, 2018 Superintendents’ Council

January 11, 2019 Title III Paras
January 21, 2019 MELT
January 23, 2019 Superintendents
January 25, 2019 Principals

Minnesota Standards Updates (Physical Education & Science)

Developing a Shared Understanding of the 2018 Physical Education Standards and Benchmarks 2019 Training Schedule

In this training, actions and resources are recommended to help educator teams* develop a shared understanding of the 2018 Minnesota physical education standards and benchmarks, and initiate the curriculum review process. By attending this training, participants will develop a shared understanding of:

• The 2018 Minnesota K-12 Physical Education Standards and Grade-Level Benchmarks
• The shifts that drove changes in the standards
• The knowledge, skills and rigor represented in the learning progressions in the benchmarks within and across grade levels
• The curriculum review process and action planning as part of a continuous review cycle

*It is highly recommended that physical educators attend this training in school district teams.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. Training is from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants are asked to bring a brown bag lunch and beverages.

There is no cost to attend these trainings, but registration is required. Please register individually, even if attending as part of a school team.

To register, click below on the training you wish to attend.

Monday, January 14, 2019 - Minnesota Department of Education, Roseville, MN

Tuesday, January 15, 2019 - Minnesota Department of Education, Roseville, MN

Wednesday, January 23, 2019 - Metro Service Cooperative, Arden Hills, MN

Wednesday, January 30, 2019 - Minnesota Department of Education, Roseville, MN

Thursday, February 7, 2019 - Sourcewell-MN (formerly NJPA), Staples, MN

Tuesday, February 26, 2019 - Lake County Service Cooperative, Fergus Falls, MN

Thursday, March 21, 2019 - SW/WC Service Cooperative, Marshall, MN

Friday, March 29, 2019 - Resource and Training Solutions, Sartell, MN

Tuesday, April 30, 2019 - South Central Service Cooperative, North Mankato, MN

Friday, May 3, 2019 - Southeast Service Cooperative, Rochester, MN

Tuesday, May 7, 2019 - Northeast Service Cooperative, Mountain Iron, MN

Thursday, May 9, 2019 - Northwest Service Cooperative, Thief River Falls, MN

Tuesday, May 21, 2019 - Winona State University, Winona, MN

https://education.mn.gov/mde/dse/mde075000

1st Draft of the New Science Standards

Provide Feedback on the First Draft!

The first draft of the revised Minnesota K-12 Science Education Standards-2019 is now available (see below). The public is invited to provide feedback during its Public Review and Comment Period, November 9-26, 2018. Submit your feedback using the online form, or attend one of the Town Hall meetings (all have already been held) and provide your feedback in person.

Contact Terry Alvarado to request a reasonable accommodation to participate in this event. Please note: The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) requires a two-week advance notice to provide accommodations and 48-hour notice to cancel the request.

The date by which all schools must implement the new standards will be determined during the rulemaking process.

For more information about the standards review process, contact John Olson 651-582-8673.

2019 K-12 Science Standards First Draft

ReMoved

I came across this short film series entitled ReMoved.  It's a story, from the kids perspective, about being placed into foster care and then going through having a brother adopted.  It's a very touching short story, and one that will make you think about how trauma affects our kids.  If you have 30 minutes, give both parts a watch today, it is well worth it!

ReMoved - Part 1

ReMoved - Part 2

Teach Like a Pirate - Part III Building a Better Pirate & Conclusion

Part III of Teach Like a Pirate provides us with a challenge to be better, tips on how to get started, and advice to surround ourselves with positive people.

My biggest takeaway out of Part III  was in the chapter Where do I start? Burgess talks about the five most common reasons why we never get started with something.

1. The fear of failure - people won't start something if there is a chance they can fail.  We don't have to embrace failure, but we can learn from it and not be afraid of it.  He uses the example of if a lesson fails, nobody dies, it's OK.  You are a teacher, not a brain surgeon, failure is OK in our world!

2. Believing you have to figure it all out before you begin - In reflection on my own life, this is a tough one for me.  I want to know everything before I start something.  I have worked hard in my personal and professional life to fix this attitude of mine.

3. Perfectionism - Some people wait for the "perfect" time to start something.  It goes back to the analogy from one of the previous chapters about creative people walking around getting "struck" by brilliant ideas.  If we wait for the perfect moment to strike, we'll never get started.

4. Lack of Focus - It's all about prioritization.  Being able to prioritize the truly important things in our lives, and not allowing the small things to take up the majority of our time.  We lose focus on what truly is important.

5. Fear of Criticism and Ridicule - Starting something new is not only different for you, but different for the people around you.  The people around you might not be ready for the change, don't let those people get in your way of progress.

Conclusion
Teach Like a Pirate is a book chalk full of strategies you can implement in your classroom tomorrow.  You don't have to be a great performer like Burgess to take the strategies and implement them into your classroom.  I felt the book was much deeper than just the strategies though.  One of the biggest "aha" moments for me was really thinking deeply about ALL aspects of the lesson plan.  The analogy of the BBQ is spot on, we have to bring all elements to the table on every single day in order to have a successful BBQ.

The other part of this book that really got me thinking was the aspect of presentation.  In the chapter about the 3 circles, Burgess is absolutely correct.  We spend so much of our professional development time on best practices and content, but never focus on the actual presentation of the material.  Without proper presentation, there is no engagement, without engagement, there is no learning.  This book made me think more deeply on how I do my own professional development.  How do I engage the learners in the audience?  How do I make my content sizzle?  Do I bring enough passion and energy to the table every day?