Quote to consider:
We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails. ~Dolly Parton
To Dos:
SAFE SCHOOLS: We used to have December 31 as our date to finish Safe Schools (aka Vector) training. The new date is October 31. If you have not completed this training, please do so ASAP.
COMMUNICATION: Please continue to regularly check the blog and the HDMS calendar linked on it for all things HDMS. This continues to be our main source of communication and is designed to save staff time by avoiding frivolous meetings and clogged inboxes.
Bits and Bobs:
EVALUATION & SLGG REQUIREMENT UPDATES: From the district office: Below is the final revision of the requirements for mini observations as well as a few highlights.
- Here is the link to the Certified Evaluation Update
- Both the number of observations and the evaluation domains and standards have been adjusted. Note that for certified staff “of concern,” administrators can use additional domains and standards, with proper notification to employees.
FROM THE COUNSELING DEPARTMENT:
Needs assessment: Here is the counseling data collected from our counseling needs assessment. Please take a look at how our student body as a whole is feeling in different areas such as academics, socially, and emotionally. You may also take a peek at some of the ways the counseling department uses these results. We are continuously trying to refine our practice to serve the needs of all our students, thank you for your continued support.
Accessing counselors: The counseling department has worked to put together documents to streamline access to grade-level counselors for staff, students, and families. Here is the detailed document for how to access the counseling department, please pay EXTRA ATTENTION to the section for staff below:
High Desert staff can share concerns about students with the HDMS counselors face-to-face, via phone or email, or by filling out this Counseling Referral Form.
Counselors will respond to all referred concerns and alert teachers that they have done so via email. Due to the nature of the counseling relationship and expectations of confidentiality, details of the follow up will vary and will be determined on a case-by-case basis. If there is a concern for safety or academic support, all relevant staff will be provided with the necessary information to maintain a safe and productive learning environment.
DONUTS & DEMOS IN THE DEN: Would you like to learn a regulation technique or two that you can teach your students? Would you like a donut too? Well of course you do! Come visit us in the Den on Wednesday 10th at 8:15. We will have treats and coffee while we lead you in a couple of strategies that you could utilize to support your students.
Reminders:
STAFF MEETINGS: For the time being, staff meetings/PDs will take place in Kennedy’s WebEx room. Our next staff meeting will be Tuesday (11/9) at 8:30am; at this meeting will be hosting the HDESD Culture of Care team who will be presenting “Understanding Equity pt. 1.”
High Desert Highlights:
