This and That:

Staffing: I am sad to announce that Mike’s last day at Elk Meadow will be this Thursday, March 10th. As many of you know, Mike purchased a home in La Pine earlier this year. It has been known that a custodial position would open up this summer but has instead opened up immediately. Mike has made a huge difference at our school in the short time he has been here and will be greatly missed. Matt will be working days for us until we have our replacement.

Volunteer Letter: I am still waiting on the Spanish version of the volunteer letter for parents that I sent to you all earlier this week. I will get it in your hands as soon as I have it.

SIW Agenda: SIW this week is “School Discretion” and will be team time.

Focus on Excellence and Equity:

TLC Update: Here is a link to this week’s TLC Update.

COVID/ Safety Related Information:

EME COVID Anonymous Safety Concern Form: Link here.

Masking (From Jennifer Hauth): After March 12th, masking will become strongly recommended, rather than required, for students and staff. This means our hallways, classrooms, gyms, libraries, and other school spaces will likely include students and staff who are wearing masks and those who are not. While this will create visible differences, it is key that we continue to honor all students and staff and help them feel like part of a rich community of learners. Here are some activities for Friday, March 11th, and Monday, March 14th to help with classroom conversations that honor individual choices.

To Do:

Spring Conferences: Start talking with your team about how conferences at your grade level might look. Student-led? What information might you be sharing? Other?

Masking Changes Conversations: No later than this Friday, March 11th, plan to have at least one conversation with your class about the upcoming masking changes and honoring individual choices. In the masking information above, Jennifer Hauth has shared some excellent resources for engaging students’ hearts and minds in this topic through circle protocols. Please give it a close look; as we all know, engaging hearts and minds is a far more effective teaching tool than just telling students how it’s going to be.

Art in the Meadow: Start thinking about Art in the Meadow with your team. This year, we will be decorating all of our windows with art so families can stroll the outside perimeter of the building to see all the art. All art should be up by Thursday, May 5th, for opening day. Please chat with our art team if you have any questions.

Important Dates: