This and That:
- Were you aware that parents can log into ParentVue and in a few clicks get signed up to receive email alerts regarding unexcused tardies/absences, final grades, and/or grade progress updates? This one-page instruction sheet might be something you want to share in a newsletter, PTO/PTA meeting, or other parent forum. It would be a great way for parents to be notified of their child’s progress – or lack thereof. Before advertising, you may want to give your teachers a heads-up though. If a parent elects to be notified if their child falls below 60% (for example) in a teacher’s grade book and that teacher doesn’t update his/her grade book for weeks (even if the student has turned in work to earn an improved grade) then the parent will continue to receive email updates that their child has a lower grade than what might be accurate. This has potential to create some angst for all parties involved!
- I recently read an article entitled “A Letter to Teachers from ‘That Kid’ ” – and thought it was worth passing along. It is a quick read and worth the few minutes of your time to remember that there are kids we work with every day who are “that kid.” Having jobs that demand your attention and more of your time than you have in a day, this article is a reminder about the most important aspect of our profession – the students. I thought this was a good reminder as we cross the mid-way point in the academic year.
- If you are wanting to carry over any of your allocated funding please communicate this with me. Although it is discouraged, there have been times when this has been approved under special circumstances. You will need both my and the finance department’s approval. Please start with me. If you’d like to talk about the reasons for or limitations of having a carryover please ask.
- Julianne sent me the following information/reminder that I thought was worth passing along to you:
Just a quick reminder that we do not allow for the gathering of signatures for ballot titles or candidates at our schools during the teacher contract day.
Per KJA, “There shall be no distribution of material that is libelous or obscene; that advocates or promotes illegal actions; that is likely to cause a disruption to or interference with the education or discipline of students in the school where the material is posted; promotes, favors, or opposes a candidate for elected office or a ballot measure; or advocates religion or promotes a particular religious viewpoint.”
More information about restrictions on political campaigns by public employees can be found on the Secretary of State’s website at: http://sos.oregon.gov/elections/Documents/restrictions.pdf
Reminders:
- I learned this week that the TELL Survey deadline has been extended until March 10. It would be great if you wouldn’t mind nudging those teachers who haven’t completed this yet.
- See you all Monday afternoon for our district Leadership meeting. Reminder, there will be no New Administrator meeting this month (per Jay’s email Friday afternoon).