This and That:

Staffing: It is bittersweet to announce that Debbi will be officially retiring on March 1, 2022, but will continue at Elk Meadow through the end of this school year. Debbi is our last original staff member that worked at Elk Meadow during the opening in 1993!! Congratulations on your new soon-to-be new adventure, Debbi!

2.22.2022: Don’t forget to wear your tutu on Tuesday 2.22.2022!!

SIW Agenda: SIW this week is “School Discretion” so at EME it will be PLC time.

Focus on Excellence and Equity:

TLC Update: Here is a link to this week’s TLC Update. Some topics of note: IMPORTANT iPad software update information, and foundational skills adoption info for grades 3-5 (yes, this adoption will impact you, too!!)

ESOL Endorsement Opportunity (From Kinsey Martin):

Dear certified teacher, A key priority within our district’s equity efforts is to improve outcomes and experiences for our culturally- and linguistically diverse students and families. We know that teachers who have specialized skills and training through an ESOL endorsement are better able to:

•understand multilingualism,
•identify strengths and assets of emergent bilingual students,
•support language acquisition during teaching, and
•partner with families through culturally sustaining practices.

Want to obtain your ESOL endorsement for free?! Bend-La Pine Schools has partnered with OSU to provide a full scholarship to five certified teachers, to participate in the endorsement program. To learn more about this opportunity; understand the timeline, application, and selection process; and ask questions, please join BLS and OSU:

An informational session and Q-and-A
Tues, March 8th, 4:30-5:15pm
WebEx meeting: join here
Here are additional details about this opportunity, and here is the application (due April 1, 2022).

Growing your toolbox of culturally- and linguistically-sustaining practices is incredibly valuable and relevant professional learning for educators, as our community grows and diversifies. If you are interested in learning about other PD opportunities related to this topic, please reach out to your building’s Language Specialist, or to one of our district’s multilingual department instructional coaches Thanks!

COVID/ Safety Related Information:

EME COVID Anonymous Safety Concern Form: Link here.

Water Fountains (From Terry Cashman): Water fountains are being turned back on. Clearance was given by the health department. **Note from Kelle: Mike will have our fountains ready for use the week after spring break. Do not remove water fountain covers – Mike will do that when they are ready.**

To Do:

Important Dates: