November 26, 2013

Coming Undone?

Not the Thanksgiving photo you were expecting?

What is it about this time of year that makes things feel like they are coming undone, leaving us feeling frazzled, confused and upside down?  Each person I talked to today was dealing with a complicated situation and most of those included a good deal of emotion from all people involved.

What happened? Things were going so smoothly just the other day???? How did this happen? Suddenly it all feels like it's coming undone?

I'm not blaming the holidays, but it is foolish for us to discount that emotions run higher this time of year in children, their parents, and in us. Have we acknowledged that? Do we see it in ourselves? How do we get steady on our feet again, let alone be a rock for others? 

A gentle Love and Logic reminder to all of us. Stop. Unless you are dealing with imminent danger...you can simply say, "I'll get back with you." (This works with kids AND adults.) Take some time to talk it through with someone else before you make any decisions or actions. I don't know what the magic is in talking with others, but I know personally that once I've been able to articulate it, clarity comes and I am able to identify the real concerns, apart from the emotion. Talking with others also allows us some 'group think' and some much needed support.

Do not go the rough waters alone. Take a buddy. Take a life jacket. Plan for the trip. 

Calendar

Week of December 2 - 5th:

Monday:

* New Parent Orientation

Tuesday:

* RTI meeting 7:30 a.m.

Wednesday:

* Professional Development - Balanced Assessment System 

Week of December 9 - 13th:

Tuesday:
* RTI meeting 7:30 a.m.

Wednesday:
* 9:00 a.m. Third Grade Musical
* 1:30 Professional Development: Balanced Assessment System

Friday:
* Third Grade fieldwork to Castlewood Canyon

Week of December 16th - 20th:

Sixth grade to Keystone Monday - Wednesday

Tuesday:
* RTI meeting 7:30 a.m.

Wednesday:
* 8:30 Parent Orientation
* All School Meeting
* Professional Development: Reflection on progress (personal assessment)

Apple Award

'Tis that time of year for nominations. As a staff, with our agreement to recognize a teacher by seniority on staff, we will be recognizing Michelle this year! We will take the opportunity to have an appreciation circle for Michelle on Monday, January 6th, at the end of the day (the day we return from break). Spend some time thinking about the word or phrase that captures what you would like to acknowledge and share with Michelle.

Job Alike - District Professional Development

January 17, 2014

Registration for Job Alike 2014 is open for Certified Staff.  January 17, 2014, will provide incredible opportunities to analyze and produce synergistic ideas, concepts or plans to improve instructional practice. Marc Prensky will come and share his deep experience and insight in educating our youth.

Registration begins November 21, 2013 and closes Friday, December 13, 2013. Additional information and registration links may be found on the DCSD Job Alike 2014 Google Site.

Please contact The World Class Education Department with questions or if you need additional information. 

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Deborah