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Weekly Update: November 8, 2019

Weekly Update: November 8, 2019

Happy Friday!  The winter chill is in the air much sooner than I had hoped. Where did Fall go?   Let’s hope that warmer weather arrives in the next few weeks. In the meantime, be sure to encourage your student to dress for the weather, and sometimes in layers is best, so that if the afternoon weather warms up students can be ready for the change.   

The end of the first trimester is quickly approaching. Students are wrapping up projects, taking assessments and completing assignments. This can be a stressful time for some of our students. Please encourage students to check in with their teachers, remind them to get plenty of rest and eat healthy.  It will also be helpful for you to check in with your student to let them know how you can support them during this time.  

Administrators explore CultureAll:

This week our administrators had an opportunity to learn about the CultureAll organization as we plan to build upon our current relationships initiative.   We look forward to engaging in further exploration in how CultureAll can support our goals.  

Evaluation Training:

The administration and Danielson Evaluation pilot teacher group had an opportunity to work with a Danielson trainer to learn the framework model while reflecting on our practice this week.   We are very excited about this opportunity to dive into a different evaluation model that will engage us in reflective practice as implement best practices. 

Iowa Nonprofit Awards ceremony:

The 2019 Iowa Nonprofit Summit and Iowa Nonprofit Awards took place on October 29-30 at The Meadows Events and Conference Center in Altoona.  Pictured below are the recipients of the the Iowa Nonprofit awards: Grinnell AmeriCorps Partnership received the Outstanding Non Profit Collaboration Award.   Melissa Strovers also received the Outstanding Volunteer or National Service Manager award. Lt. Governor Adam Gregg presented these awards. Congratulations! 

Iowa Statesman Workshop & Concert:

The Iowa Statesman Workshop and Concert was a success.   The concert was simply amazing.   

SkillsUSA club:

The SkillsUSA Club planned and executed a Junior Olympics activity for the Big Brother Big Sisters organization this week. These kids did such an awesome job and really showed great leadership skills. A few of the students will take a portfolio and presentation explaining the project to the state contest next Spring. Part of their portfolio is any possible publications about the project. Let’s help our students through publishing this event.  Spread the word!  

4th Grade field trip to Iowa Wild Hockey Game:

Our 4th grade students had an opportunity to watch the Wild Hockey Game this past week.   We are grateful that students have an opportunity to attend various performance activities as many students may not have had this opportunity outside of the school experience.    

Ukulele concert in 6th-grade General Music Class:

Have you ever been to a Ukulele concert? Our 6th grade students enjoyed this experience. 

Unplugged Night:

What did you do during unplugged night?  Some families we learned enjoyed game night, no homework night, went to a play, or read a book. However you experienced Unplugged Night, I hope it was enjoyable and relaxing for you and your family. The time to get re-connected without being connected is valuable time together. 

Upcoming Board Meeting November 13, 2019