Weekly+Archive

= =

Lucia Wallace Weekly
 = = May 15, 2011 = = = = 1. Our next round of interviews, this time for the vacant 5th grade positions, will be on Monday and Tuesday afternoons. Three candidates are scheduled each day. The Special Education interviews last Thursday went well and I understand verbal offers have been made, and accepted. We should have two very good resource teachers joining our district next year. Names, and more details will be made available later. = = = = 2. The Y has agreed to have our kids there on May 26 for 2 1/2 hours. One grade will go from 9 until 11:30, with the other from 12:30 until 3:00. We'll need to decide which grade goes when. = = = = 3. BG will be doing MAP testing on Monday and Tuesday, so we are asked not to do any, unless it's a make up test with a single student. We should be able to complete MAP testing on Wednesday and Thursday. = = = = 4. On Tuesday, our MS Track teams participate in the conference track meets. The girls run at Clear Lake, and the boys at St. Edmond. Both bus times are set at 2:30 as the meets begin at 4:00. = = = = 5. The 5th grade has their annual Des Moines trip on Wednesday, then those interested go to Arnolds Park on the annual DARE trip on Saturday. = = = = 6. Orders for next year can be entered as on-line requisitions, with the exception of general supply orders for fifth grade. Fifth grade teachers may have already received a form from Mrs. Baas at the Middle School on which they should indicate anticipated general supply use for next year. All fifth grade teachers should complete this as if they would be teaching 5th grade next year. This is being done so projected needs can be compared to current inventories of general supplies. All other orders can be placed online, and should include an 11-12 designation. = = = = Activity Calendar: = = = = **Mon., May 16 (Day 3/171): ** = = G District Golf = = 5th Interviews - 1:00-5:00 = = Spring Play 7:30 p.m. = = = = **<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Tue., May 17 (Day 4/172): ** = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">MS B Tr @ St. Edmond - 4:00 (bus leaves 2:30) = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">MS G Tr @ Clear Lake - 4:00 (bus leaves 2:30) = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">5th Interviews - 1:00-5:00 = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">HS Vocal Concert - 7:30 = = = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">**<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Wed., May 18 (Day 5/173): ** = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">5th grade to Des Moines = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Seniors Last Day = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Music Awards - 6 p.m. = = = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">**<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Thu., May 19 (Day 6/174): ** = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">MS Vocal Concert - 7:30 = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">State Track Meet = = = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">**<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Fri., May 20 (Day 1/175): ** = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">State Track Meet = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Boys District Golf = = = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">**<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Sat., May 21 ** = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">State Track Meet = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">DARE field trip to Arnolds Park = = = = = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">**<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">//<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Looking ahead // **... = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">May 22 - Commencement = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">May 23 - 5th to POW & AMS, 4th also to AMS = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">May 24 - LW Talent Show = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">May 26 - LW at YMCA = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">May 27 - Last Day of school = = = = = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0000ff; font-family: serif; font-size: 22.4px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">My plans for next week... = = <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">10-noon LW <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">noon-1 MS <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1-5:30 interviews ||< <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">7:45-10 LW <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">10-1 MS <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1-5:30 interviews ||< <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">7:45-11 LW <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">11-4 MS ||< <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">7:45-1 MS <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1-4 LW ||< <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">7:45-10 MS <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">10-1 LW <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1-4 MS || = = = = = = = = =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">April 24, 2011 =
 * ~ ==<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 24px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">**<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 24px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Monday, May 16 ** == ||< ==<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 24px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Tuesday, May 17 == ||< ==<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 24px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Wednesday, May 18 == ||< ==<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 24px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Thursday, May 19 == ||< ==<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 24px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Friday, May 20 == ||
 * < <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">7:45-10 MS

1. Nearly all ITBS make-ups are complete, thanks to Mr. Redenius and all of you. I'm hoping the labels will be available by the end of the week, or early the next. Word from other districts is that ITBS results have been returning in a week to 10 days.

2. Mr. Rich has 5th and 6th grade solos and ensembles scheduled for this coming Thursday, April 28, from 4:00 until 7:30.

3. With the Human Growth and Development sessions from Tuesday knocked out by snow, they have been rescheduled for this coming Tuesday, at the same times, as follows:

12:45-1:45: Roberts, Sudol boys in Sudol's room; girls in Roberts' room 2:10-3:10: Crouch, McLaughlin boys in McLaughlin's room; girls in Crouch's room

4. We've also go the Dental Health program coming in on Thursday. I know there have been some emails regarding possible times. The presenter has asked for 20-25 minutes per session. She planned on being here by 9:30 and wanted to be done before lunch. So far, I have tentative 5th grade plans as follows: 9:20-9:45 (McLaughlin); 9:50-10:15 (Roberts); 10:20-10:45 (Crouch and Sudol). Fourth grade classes will need to fit from 10:50-12:15. In order to get everyone in, 4th grade will likely need to do the same thing 5th grade is planning - two classes alone and two classes combined. I'll try to check signals on Tuesday morning to see if we have a schedule, or if we need to work on finalizing it.

5. Mrs. Bowman will want to schedule a time to come over to meet with 5th grade classes. This could be as early as Wednesday, or early in the first week in May if we'd prefer to wait since we've got rescheduling of the nurses onto Tuesday and Dental Health sessions on Thursday. Fifth grade staff should let me know if they have a preference.

6. A reminder that mid-term grades are due Tuesday morning.

7. Looking ahead...the AHS Drama department has invited LW students to attend a matinee performance of their spring play. This would be on Friday, May 13, at a time to be announced - likely afternoon. We may have to ask them to find a "rain date" as that day is also our rain date for Dog Patch Relays. More on this later.

Activity Calendar:

No School
 * Mon., April 25:**

Rep Council - 7:50 Human Growth and Development sessions rescheduled from last Tuesday MS B/G Tr @ Humboldt - 4:30 (buses leave 3:30) G Tr @ Forest City - 4:30 B Tr @ Emmetsburg - 5:00 Golf - St. Edmond (B there, G here) - 4:30
 * Tue., April 26 (Day 1/157):**

Mrs. Bowman visits 5th grade classrooms?
 * Wed., April 27 (Day 2/158):**

Dental Health sessions -a.m. Band Trip Drake Relays MS G Tr - here - 4:30 (may also include Boys) 5/6 Solos/Ensembles - 4:30
 * Thu., April 28 (Day 3/159):**

Band Trip Drake Relays Golf - Clear Lake (B there, G here) - 4:30 MS B Tr - Seton Relays - 4:30
 * Fri., April 29 (Day 4/160):**

Band Trip Drake Relays B Golf @ Storm Lake G Golf @ B Garrigan
 * Sat., April 30**

Dogpatch Relays - May 6 EPak - 4th grade to Emmetsburg - May 10 Bike Rodeo - May 10 All-school Band Concert - May 11 Play Matinee/Dog Patch Relay Rain date - May 13
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 9:30-1 MS 1-3 Admin 3-4 MS ||< 7:45-noon MS noon-3 LW 3-4 MS ||< 7:45-1 MS 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-11 LW 11-4 MS ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, April 25**== ||< ==Tuesday, April 26== ||< ==Wednesday, April 27== ||< ==Thursday, April 28== ||< ==Friday, April 29== ||
 * < No school ||< 7:45-9:30 LW



=<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">April 17, 2011 =

1. ITBS materials were coming into the office on Friday. Please turn in materials as you clean up any make-up tests. It would be great if everything could be in before Easter break, but labels for answer sheets likely won't be here until the last of April.

2. Community Health nurses come in this week for our annual human growth and development sessions. Karen Garman and Jo Lighter are scheduled to do the presentations this year. Everyone should have a copy of the schedule from a while back, but to review, here it is:

Monday, April 18: 1:15-2:00: Kitzinger, Gerhardt boys in Gerhardt's room; girls in Kitzinger's room 2:25-3:10: Harms, DeGeest boys in Harms' room; girls in DeGeest's room

Tuesday, April 19: 12:45-1:45: Roberts, Sudol boys in Sudol's room; girls in Roberts' room 2:10-3:10: Crouch, McLaughlin boys in McLaughlin's room; girls in Crouch's room

Thursday, April 21: 12:40-1:25: Crouch, McLaughlin's boys in McLaughlin's room; girls in Crouch's room 1:30-2:15: Roberts, Sudol boys in Sudol's room; girls in Roberts' room

3. The Algona Area Children's Choir is scheduled to perform here on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m.

4. Mid-term is Thursday. We agreed at the last Rep Council meeting to have mid-term grades due on Tuesday, April 26.

5. We have our next regular faculty meeting on Tuesday morning at 7:50. If anyone has something for the agenda, let me know.

6. On Thursday, we have a Recognition Assembly and mini-courses at the middle school, so I will likely be there all day. If I don't see you on Thursday, have a good Easter weekend, and if traveling do so safely!

Activity Calendar:

4th grade Growth and Development talks MS Boys Tr - here - 4:30
 * Mon., April 18 (Day 3/153):**

Faculty Meeting - 7:50 5th grade Growth and Development talks MS G Tr @ Emmetsburg - 4:15 B Golf @ Eagle Grove - 4:30 G Golf @ Webster City - 4:30 G Tr @ Pocahontas - 4:30 B Tr @ Spirit Lake - 5:00
 * Tue., April 19 (Day 4/154):**

NCC Art Show Area Childrens' Choir here - 1 p.m.
 * Wed., April 20 (Day 5/155):**

5th grade Growth and Development talks B Tr @ Pocahontas - 4:30 G Tr @ Webster City - 5 p.m. 2:15 dismissal
 * Thu., April 21 (Day 6/156):**

Good Friday, No School
 * Fri., April 22:**

No School
 * Mon., April 25**

April 26 - Classes resume, mid-terms due 8:30 April 28 - Dental Health sessions April 28 - 5th grade instrumental solos/ensembles
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 11-2- LW 2-4 MS ||< 7:45-9 LW 9-1 MS 1-3 Admin 3-4 MS ||< 7:45-12:30 MS 12:30-4 LW ||< 7:45-3 MS ||< no school ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, April 18**== ||< ==Tuesday, April 19== ||< ==Wednesday, April 20== ||< ==Thursday, April 21== ||< ==Friday, April 22== ||
 * < 7:45-11 MS

=<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">April 10, 2011 =

1. Congratulations to Sheila, all of our kids, on a great music program this past week. It was a fun program, and I observed many students still dancing as they left the stage - a good signal they were having fun as well. Nice job!

2. ITBS begin on Monday. I think everyone has picked up materials. If not, or if you need additional materials, let Lisa know.

3. RAMM swimming for 4th grade is scheduled Tuesday afternoon from 1-3. When you arrive, two classes will be allowed to go the pool, while the other two go to the gym, then you'll switch around 1/2 way through. It's suggested that whoever is in the gym first should go to the locker room to get ready for swimming before the "1/2 time point", so we'll get as much pool time as possible.

4. Opera Iowa makes their visit to Algona on Wednesday. They are scheduled to be here at LW for a short session from 12:45-1:15. We'll be set up in three rooms - Music Room, Media Center, and either Gym or Computer room. Each class will be assigned to one of these rooms. Following this, we'll be boarding buses at 1:30 to go to OB Laing for the Opera Iowa performance at 2:00. As I think I may have emailed earlier, they want us there, and seated by 1:40, because they want to visit with the kids starting about 1:45.

In order to accommodate the small group sessions here, we'll either need to bring 4th grade in early from recess, or possibly adjust their lunch time. We'll aim to have this finalized on Monday, and will communicate room assignments at that time as well.

5. Hopefully, internal transfer applications can be processed and settled so that we will be able to list openings our district has and begin advertising next weekend. Also, as Mr. Fonley suggested, work continues on the potential to get all 5-12 staff to a level of 6 1/2 assignments, from the current 7. In order to accomplish this, some course assignments will have to be shifted, which may impact the assignment for 5th grade teachers.

Activity Calendar:

ITBS begins Board Meeting - 7:30 p.m.
 * Mon., April 11 (Day 4/148):**

Rep Council - 7:50 ITBS Golf - B @ Clarion-G, G here - 4:30 B Tr @ Clear Lake - 4:30 G Tr - Hannover Relays - 5 p.m. ELC Project Fair - 7 p.m.
 * Tue., April 12 (Day 5/149):**

ITBS Opera Iowa sessions - 12:45-1:15 Opera Iowa performance - 2 p.m. NCLB - 1:15
 * Wed., April 13 (Day 6/150):**

ITBS MS G Tr @ Humboldt - 4:30 (bus leaves 3:30) MS B Tr - Quad here - 4:30
 * Thu., April 14 (Day 1/151):**

ITBS MS G Tr @ Clarion - 4:30 (bus leaves 3:00) Golf - B Garrigan; B here, G there - 4:30 G Tr - B Garrigan Invit - 5:00 B Tr @ Estherville - 5:00
 * Fri., April 15 (Day 2/152):**

B Golf @ Spencer
 * Sat., April 16**

ITBS make ups - April 18 Easter - April 24
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 1-3:30 LW 3:30-4 Mtg ||< 7:45-9 LW 9-1 MS 1-3 Admin 3-4 MS ||< 7:45-10 LW 10-1 MS 1-3 NCLB 3-4 MS ||< 7:45-1 MS 1-3 LW 3-4 MS ||< 7:45-11 LW 11-4 MS ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, April 11**== ||< ==Tuesday, April 12== ||< ==Wednesday, April 13== ||< ==Thursday, April 14== ||< ==Friday, April 15== ||
 * < 7:45-1 MS

= = =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">April 3, 2011 =

1. Our Music Program is this next Thursday. Practice for each grade will be held here again on Monday, with practice for everyone at Laing Auditorium on Wednesday and Thursday. Buses are scheduled to load on each of those days at 8:40. Depending on how practice goes, we should be back around 10:00. I will aim to check on furniture in the rooms we have planned as gathering spaces as I have been informed that another school has purchased some of the furniture left behind. We'll do our best to have something available in your room there.

2. Fifth grade teachers should have posted twice on the Differentiation google.doc, once regarding your effort to differentiate by interest, the other by learning style.

3. Late this past week, we were notified of the annual state-wide tornado drill, which is scheduled for Wednesday morning at 10:15. This should occur shortly after we return from OB Laing, but in case we're still there, we'll need to take shelter there (which would be to stay in the auditorium, but move to the back under the protection of the balcony above.

4. Wednesday is also our next early out for staff development. This month's time is being left to each building to work on building initiatives. At the MS, we will have two main topics on Wednesday to work on. One will be to plan for our new "pre-school year" conferences (we will have one night of conferencing before school starts to communicate basic information to parents, and to gather pertinent information). This will include scheduling, format, information to provide and gather (could be some variations by grade), and other related topics. The second topic will be to reflect on our second semester experience with our end-of-the-day homeroom and how we've attempted to merge our reading/math interventions with homeroom activities; and, how we want to move into next year. Here, we've done something similar in that we've begun our Read Naturally intervention during the last 30 minutes of the day. Fifth grade teachers will join the MS staff on Wednesday. Fourth grade teachers will again be with the K-4 staff.

All fifth grade teachers who have a preference will be asked to let me know which group you'd like to work with on Wednesday (Conferences or Homeroom). I would like to see representation on both groups, so among the 5 of you (4 classroom teachers, plus Denise), you might want to aim to have at least two in each group. If you don't care which group you work with, I'll make assignments. You should let me know if you have a preference by end of school on Tuesday. We should get a good hour of work time, followed by an opportunity to bring everyone together for a report from each group.

5. Although there will likely be some changes to 5th grade "specials" and the scheduling of those specials will need to fit within our 9-period structure, plans are currently aimed at 5th graders having a 3-period block each morning with one teacher. They'll likely return to that teacher again in the afternoon for at least some time. Scheduling for grades 6-8 will be similar to the second semester schedule, except that we are looking to return to a 2-period reading/language block in 6th grade, if it can be scheduled. Some staffing issues remain that could have a significant impact on how middle school staffing ends up, but I would expect things will start falling into place in the next 2-3 weeks.

6. We had about 50 people tour the new middle school on Saturday morning during the annual Alumni Basketball tournament. Many positive comments were heard.

7. RAMM swimming for 5th grade is scheduled Tuesday afternoon from 1-3. Fourth grade is scheduled one week later (April 12).

8. We are scheduled to begin ITBS on April 11. Although much of testing will likely be completed that week, we would ask that everyone aim to have all testing complete by Thursday, April 21. Be thinking about any testing preparations you might want to get in yet. This could be test-taking skills, a quick review of the testing format, or perhaps review of key concepts you know are included. We have booklets for parents which will be forwarded to you to use with/give to parents this week.

Activity Calendar:

Music Practice by grade - here, a.m. LW Fun Night
 * Mon., April 4 (Day 5/143):**

Faculty Meeting - 7:50 a.m. 5th RAMM swimming at Y - 1-3 p.m. GTr @ Clear Lake - 4:30 B Tr @ Eagle Grove - 5 p.m.
 * Tue., April 5 (Day 6/144):**

All to OBL for practice 8:40-10? State-wide tornado drill - 10:15 a.m. 1:45 dismissal for SD
 * Wed., April 6 (Day 1/145):**

All to OBL for practice 8:40-10? LW Music program @ OB Laing - 7:30
 * Thu., April 7 (Day 2/146):**

B Tr @ Humboldt - 5 p.m.
 * Fri., April 8 (Day 3/147):**

ACT @ AHS Prom
 * Sat., April 9**

ITBS - all week April 11-15 Opera Iowa here p.m. (no exact time communicated at this point) Human Growth and Development/Body Changes sessions - April 18, 19, 21 Area Childrens' Choir - April 20 (time not communicated at this point)
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 10:30-3 MS 3-4 LW ||< 7:45-9 LW 9-1 MS 1-3 Admin 3-4 MS ||< 7:45-9 MS 9-2 Mtg 2-4 MS ||< 7:45-1 MS 1-3 LW 3-4 MS ||< 7:45-1 MS 1-4 LW ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, April 4**== ||< ==Tuesday, April 5== ||< ==Wednesday, April 6== ||< ==Thursday, April 7== ||< ==Friday, April 8== ||
 * < 7:45-10:30 LW



=<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">March 25, 2011 =

1. Third quarter ended on Friday and grades are due in by 3:30 on Monday. We will aim to have report cards printed and ready to send out later in the week.

2. Our tornado drill went quite well. Students got into shelter in good time and were very quiet in each area. Great job! I do apologize for having the drill following recess instead of before, as was planned. Hopefully, we'll be able to get a fire drill in sometime later this coming week, providing it warms a little.

3. Interviews are being set up for the part-time HS guidance position and the SAM (elementary administration) position this week. At this writing, I believe the plans are to interview for the guidance position on Tuesday afternoon and the administrative position on Wednesday afternoon. Anita, Marilyn, Tish and Lisa are all part of the administrative interview process. Four candidates are being interviewed for this position. At this point, no specific duties and/or building assignment have been established. This will likely be done after the position is accepted.

4. Fifth grade teachers should have blogged on their initial differentiation effort (by interest or learning style). A link for posting was sent out in a separate email. If you can't find it, let me know. A second blog is expected this week. Fourth grade teachers, I believe, were asked to complete a survey sent out by Mr. Kerkove.

5. Rep Council will meet on Tuesday morning this week.

6. I think I may have mixed ITBS dates in last week's Weekly. Our testing will be done starting April 11. Middle school testing starts on April 4. Again, we chose to wait until April 11 because we have our concert and practices during the week of the 4th.

7. Sheila is hoping to practice with all 5th graders from 8:45-9:30 on March 31 and April 4, and all 4th graders from 10:30 until 11:15 on those two dates. This would be followed with practices at Laing Auditorium on April 6 and 7, starting at 8:40 each day. The program is Thursday night, April 7. This is the same schedule we used last year. If anyone has concerns, please let me know ASAP.

8. As you may remember, the Talent Search representative has been seeking a time to meet with all 5th graders in March. This is set on March 31, at 2:45 in the afternoon. She expects the session to last only about 25 minutes.

9. I have made a couple contacts with the Y regarding swimming reward from RAMM. We have two afternoons tentatively set as Tuesday, April 5 and Friday, April 8; however, when I double-checked for verification on last week, there seemed to be a question about Tuesday. I'm hoping to have those dates and times verified by early in the week.

Activity Calendar:

Grades due 3:30
 * Mon., March 28 (Day 6/138):**

Rep Council 7:50
 * Tue., March 29 (Day 1/139):**

Admin Interviews - p.m.
 * Wed., March 30 (Day 2/140):**

Music Practices a.m. Talent Search Assembly for 5th grade - 2:45 MS Band Concert - 7:30 Tr - Early Bird Relays - 5 p.m.
 * Thu., March 31 (Day 3/141):**

State Science Fair Alumni BB tournament
 * Fri., April 1 (Day 4/142):**

State Science Fair Alumni BB tournament
 * Sat., April 2**

Music Practices April 4 - a.m. RAMM swimming - April 5, 8? Staff Development early out April 6 Music Practice at Laing Aud - April 6, 7 Music Program - April 7 ITBS begins - April 11
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 2-4 LW ||< 7:45-9 LW 9-1 MS 1-3 Admin 3-4 LW ||< 7:45-9:30 LW 9:30- noon MS noon-7 interviews ||< 7:45-1 MS 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-10 MS 10-2 LW 2-4 MS ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, Mar. 28**== ||< ==Tuesday, Mar. 29== ||< ==Wednesday, Mar. 30== ||< ==Thursday, Mar. 31== ||< ==Friday, Apr. 1== ||
 * < 7:45-2 MS



= = =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">March 18, 2011 =

1. As we get into warmer weather, we'll need to have a pair of fire drills and tornado drills. I'm looking at scheduling something for Thursday and/or Friday of this coming week. Let me know if there's some time(s) you'd prefer I avoid.

2. DARE graduation is Tuesday night at the new middle school gym. Roger and I will be visiting about the set-up before practice, which is scheduled for 1:30 on Tuesday.

3. Ryan Sloth has been rescheduled for a visit here on Wednesday. His complete schedule is being distributed separately, but I think he'll be here at LW at 9:30 to meet with 4th graders, and 10:20 with 5th graders. Both sessions are projected at about 40 minutes.

4. Friday is the end of the 3rd quarter. MS and HS grades are due by 3:30 on Monday, March 28, so we'll probably aim for the same here. Report cards should be ready to go out during the week then. If you had anyone not attend conferences, you could turn in their MAP reports and we can include them with the report cards.

Activity Calendar:

Fire Drill at MS - 9:50 (weather permitting) C Bachman IEP - 3:30 (LW)
 * Mon., March 21 (Day 1/133):**

LW Rep Council - 7:50 NHS Blood Drive at AHS DARE graduation practice - 1:30 (LW) DARE graduation at AMS - 7 p.m.
 * Tue., March 22 (Day 2/134):**

Author Ryan Sloth at LW - 9:30, 10:20 Magazine Sales kick-off (MS) - HR
 * Wed., March 23 (Day 3/135):**

K Round up LW Tornado Drill? - p.m. MS Rep Council - 3:40
 * Thu., March 24 (Day 4/136):**

K Round up LW Fire Drill? - p.m. End of 3rd quarter
 * Fri., March 25 (Day 5/137):**

State Solo/Ensemble Contest here
 * Sat., March 19**

MS/HS Grades due - March 28 8th Kiddie Karnival - March 29 MS Band Concert - March 31 Algebra Aptitude Test - 9th per - March 31 Talent Search meets with 5th grade - March 31
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 2-4 LW ||< 7:45-9 LW 9-1 MS 1-3 Admin 3-4 LW ||< 7:45-11 LW 11-4 MS ||< 7:45-noon MS noon-3 LW 3-4 MS ||< 7:45-1 MS 1-4 LW || = = =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">March 12, 2011 =
 * ~ ==**Monday, Mar. 21**== ||< ==Tuesday, Mar. 22== ||< ==Wednesday, Mar. 23== ||< ==Thursday, Mar. 24== ||< ==Friday, Mar. 25== ||
 * < 7:45-2 MS

1. Conferences seemed to be very well attended again. Congratulations to all of you on doing a good job of communicating with parents regarding status, any concerns, and reason for hope. I hope everyone was able to enjoy the 3-day weekend.

2. Due to an Iowa Core meeting all-day on Tuesday, we will not have a faculty meeting Tuesday morning. Stay tuned regarding plans for Tuesday, March 22.

3. Our next Staff Development sessions are on Wednesday, March 16. We will again be "splitting" as staff for grades 5-12 will go meet in the MS Commons for a session centered on Differentiating by Interest and Learning Style. Fourth grade staff will meet with K-4 staff for their discussion groups on the Daily 5. Those meetings will be in rooms at the high school. Sessions should start no later than 2:00.
 * 4. Recently, the district has notified staff of various current openings. To review, there is a Special Ed position available at Bishop Garrigan, 3 part-time Drivers' Ed positions (driving only), a HS Spanish position, a SAM position (likely centered on elementary administration), and a HS Guidance position. These last two positions were initially advertised as a combination, but it is possible that the administration side may become full-time. If this happens, the half-time guidance position could be combined with a current teaching assignment. Anyone interested in any of these should contact Mr. Fonley. Potential interest in the Guidance position should be communicated by Wednesday.

5. Materials for this year's ITBS have arrived. Our testing is slated for the week of April 4. Materials will likely be sorted out this coming week so everyone can begin preparations.

Activity Calendar:

K Round up meeting at BG - 7 p.m. Winter Sports Banquet
 * Mon., March 14 (Day 2/128):**

Iowa Core Meeting - all day - no LW faculty meeting MS Vocal Concert - 7:30
 * Tue., March 15 (Day 3/129):**

Staff Development dismissal 1:45
 * Wed., March 16 (Day 4/130):**

St. Patrick's Day HS Superstars
 * Thu., March 17 (Day 5/131):**


 * Fri., March 18 (Day 6/132):**

AMS Quiz Bowl HS Tr @ Mankato Invitational
 * Sat., March 19**

End of 3rd quarter - March 25 Grades due - March 28 ITBS - week of April 4
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... ||~ ==**Monday, Mar. 14**== ||< ==Tuesday, Mar. 15== ||< ==Wednesday, Mar. 16== ||< ==Thursday, Mar. 17== ||< ==Friday, Mar. 18== || 1:00-4:00 LW ||< 8-4 Ia Core Mtg ||< 7:45-10:30 LW 10:30-4 MS ||< 7:45-10:30 MS 10:30-1:30 LW 1:30-4 MS ||< 7:45-11 LW 11-4 MS ||
 * < 7:45-1:00 MS









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Activity Calendar:

Vocational Dept. Meetings - all day -MS MS, HS PTS Conferences 4:00-7:30
 * Mon., March 7 (Day 4/124):**

Rep Council - 7:50 a.m. MS, Elem PTS Conferences 4:00-7:30 HS Band Concert - 7:30
 * Tue., March 8 (Day 5/125):**

Sci Dept meeting - a.m. NCLB - 1:15
 * Wed., March 9 (Day 6/126):**

Core Dept Meetings - all day - MS Elem/HS PTS Conferences 4:00-7:30
 * Thu., March 10 (Day 1/127):**

No School State B BB Finals Drill Team Clinic @ AHS
 * Fri., March 11:**

State B BB Finals SAT @ AHS State Indiv. Speech @ AHS
 * Sat., March 12**

MS Vocal Concert - March 15 Magazine Sales end - March 21 End of 3rd quarter - March 25
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 9-1 MS 1-5 LW 5-7:30 MS ||< 7:45-12:30 MS 12:30-1 LW 1-3 NCLB 3:30-4 LW ||< 7:45-3 MS 3-7:30 LW ||<  ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, Mar. 7**== ||< ==Tuesday, Mar. 8== ||< ==Wednesday, Mar. 9== ||< ==Thursday, Mar. 10== ||< ==Friday, Mar. 11== ||
 * < 7:45-7:30 MS ||< 7:45-9 LW



=<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">March 5, 2011 =

1. PTS Conferences are Tuesday and Thursday night at LW. A report from our latest MAP testing should be made available for each student. As in the past, you're not expected to be a MAP expert, but should be able to answer basic questions a parent might have. I will forward a copy of the MAP "cheat sheet" provided earlier to give you some basic guidance.

2. As has been mentioned, in looking at future calendars, the NCLB group discussed scheduling of parent-teacher-student conferences. It was agreed there that the first discussion should probably be regarding the purpose of conferences. At their meeting this coming Wednesday, there will likely be discussion about how conferences might be scheduled for next year. If you have any suggestions regarding conferences, get them to Brad, Sande, or me, so that input from LW can be included in this discussion.

3. A series of departmental meetings at the MS/HS continue on Monday and Thursday of this next week. I will be in those meetings, which will take nearly all of both days. I would still be available in case of emergency and may be able to stop in if I get a break in between some meetings.

4. Due to PTS Conferences, there's no school on Friday. You may want to enjoy the extra day in the weekend as we will be an hour "short" on Sunday as Daylight Savings Time begins.

Activity Calendar:

Vocational Dept. Meetings - all day -MS MS, HS PTS Conferences 4:00-7:30
 * Mon., March 7 (Day 4/124):**

Rep Council - 7:50 a.m. MS, Elem PTS Conferences 4:00-7:30 HS Band Concert - 7:30
 * Tue., March 8 (Day 5/125):**

Sci Dept meeting - a.m. NCLB - 1:15
 * Wed., March 9 (Day 6/126):**

Core Dept Meetings - all day - MS Elem/HS PTS Conferences 4:00-7:30
 * Thu., March 10 (Day 1/127):**

No School State B BB Finals Drill Team Clinic @ AHS
 * Fri., March 11:**

State B BB Finals SAT @ AHS State Indiv. Speech @ AHS
 * Sat., March 12**

MS Vocal Concert - March 15 Magazine Sales end - March 21 End of 3rd quarter - March 25
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 9-1 MS 1-5 LW 5-7:30 MS ||< 7:45-12:30 MS 12:30-1 LW 1-3 NCLB 3:30-4 LW ||< 7:45-3 MS 3-7:30 LW ||<  ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, Mar. 7**== ||< ==Tuesday, Mar. 8== ||< ==Wednesday, Mar. 9== ||< ==Thursday, Mar. 10== ||< ==Friday, Mar. 11== ||
 * < 7:45-7:30 MS ||< 7:45-9 LW





= = = = =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">February 27, 2011 =

1. Our staff development time on this coming Wednesday will be mostly devoted to use of MAP data to apply in differentiating. Details of plans for Wednesday will be forwarded separately.

2. In looking at the school calendar, the NCLB group talked some about the scheduling of PTS Conferences. As you know, each building is asked to give some thought to the purpose of conferences, and provide input to the NCLB (Brad and I are members). Once the primary purposes are set, the dates might be easier to identify. It could be that we feel that the current conference set up and scheduling is the best arrangement. Or, it could be that we feel the purpose of conferences has shifted due to changes in such things as technology (parent online). This will be one of the items on our agenda for our meeting on Tuesday morning.

3. Our regular faculty meeting is Tuesday morning at 7:50.

4. PTS Conferences are coming up. For us they are on Tuesday and Thursday, March 8 and 10. We'll again have MAP reports ready for sharing for your conferences. Hopefully, you'll have some time, possibly on Wednesday, to examine results for your students.

Activity Calendar:

DARE sessions with HS students North Central Honor Choir Girls State BB PTO 5:15
 * Mon., Feb. 28 (Day 5/119):**

Faculty Meeting - 7:50 a.m. Wr Banquet Elem Book Fairs
 * Tue., March 1 (Day 6/120):**

Early dismissal for Staff Development
 * Wed., March 2 (Day 1/121):**

Bryant Music program - 7 p.m.
 * Thu., March 3 (Day 2/122):**

State Girls BB
 * Fri., March 4 (Day 3/123):**

State Girls BB Western Iowa Science Fair
 * Sat., March 5**

PTS Conferences - March 8, 10 No School - March 11 DARE graduation - March 22
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-10:30 LW 10:30-1 MS 1-3 Admin 3-4 MS ||< 7:45-8 MS 8-1:45 Mtg 1:45-3:30 SD 3:30-4 MS ||< 7:45-11 MS 11-2 LW 2-4 MS ||< 7:45-11 LW 11-4 MS ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, Feb. 28**== ||< ==Tuesday, Mar. 1== ||< ==Wednesday, Mar. 2== ||< ==Thursday, Mar. 3== ||< ==Friday, Mar. 4== ||
 * < 7:45-1 MS







1. I believe MAP testing, including make-ups is complete, or nearly so. Thanks to Tish for all her work in conducting these tests. Testing will be wrapping up at the middle school this week, so I will likely be still spending the majority of my time there.

2 . Soon, we'll be looking at planner/handbook orders for next year. This year, we shifted to the AEA for production, at a significant savings. How have the planners held up? Are there features we'd like to have/have back? Of course, 5th graders will be part of the middle school planner/handbook next year and 4th grade will share the LW planner with 3rd graders. Any input/suggestions from anyone is appreciated.

3. The end of the 3rd quarter will remain on Friday, March 25, as it was on the original school calendar. There was apparently a miscount on the original, so with our snow days, 3rd and 4th quarters are now much closer to even by ending on March 25.

4. We have 8 HS students indentified for the DARE classes on February 28. Four will be here for the two morning classes, and another four for the afternoon sessions.

Activity Calendar:

B BB - District at Storm Lake - 7 p.m. D Fortner mtg 3:30
 * Mon., Feb. 21 (Day 6/114):**

Rep Council - 7:50
 * Tue., Feb. 22 (Day 1/115)):**

FFA Pie and Ice Cream
 * Wed., Feb. 23 (Day 2/116):**

BBB Districts
 * Thu., Feb. 24 (Day 3/117):**

MAP window closes
 * Fri., Feb. 25 (Day 4/118):**

State Dual Wrestling District Individual Speech
 * Sat., Feb. 12**

Magazine sales begin - March 7 PTS Conferences - March 7, 8 No School - March 11 MS Vocal Concert - March 15
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-8:30 LW 8:30-1 MS 1-3 Admin 3-4 LW ||< 7:45-1 MS 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-1 MS 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-11 LW 11-4 MS ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, Feb. 21**== ||< ==Tuesday, Feb. 22== ||< ==Wednesday, Feb. 23== ||< ==Thursday, Feb. 24== ||< ==Friday, Feb. 25== ||
 * < 7:45-1 MS



= = =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">February 21, 2011 =

1. I believe MAP testing, including make-ups is complete, or nearly so. Thanks to Tish for all her work in conducting these tests. Testing will be wrapping up at the middle school this week, so I will likely be still spending the majority of my time there.

2 . Soon, we'll be looking at planner/handbook orders for next year. This year, we shifted to the AEA for production, at a significant savings. How have the planners held up? Are there features we'd like to have/have back? Of course, 5th graders will be part of the middle school planner/handbook next year and 4th grade will share the LW planner with 3rd graders. Any input/suggestions from anyone is appreciated.

3. The end of the 3rd quarter will remain on Friday, March 25, as it was on the original school calendar. There was apparently a miscount on the original, so with our snow days, 3rd and 4th quarters are now much closer to even by ending on March 25.

4. We have 8 HS students indentified for the DARE classes on February 28. Four will be here for the two morning classes, and another four for the afternoon sessions.

Activity Calendar:

B BB - District at Storm Lake - 7 p.m. D Fortner mtg 3:30
 * Mon., Feb. 21 (Day 6/114):**

Rep Council - 7:50
 * Tue., Feb. 22 (Day 1/115)):**

FFA Pie and Ice Cream
 * Wed., Feb. 23 (Day 2/116):**

BBB Districts
 * Thu., Feb. 24 (Day 3/117):**

MAP window closes
 * Fri., Feb. 25 (Day 4/118):**

State Dual Wrestling District Individual Speech
 * Sat., Feb. 12**

Magazine sales begin - March 7 PTS Conferences - March 7, 8 No School - March 11 MS Vocal Concert - March 15
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-8:30 LW 8:30-1 MS 1-3 Admin 3-4 LW ||< 7:45-1 MS 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-1 MS 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-11 LW 11-4 MS || = = = = =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">February 5, 2011 =
 * ~ ==**Monday, Feb. 21**== ||< ==Tuesday, Feb. 22== ||< ==Wednesday, Feb. 23== ||< ==Thursday, Feb. 24== ||< ==Friday, Feb. 25== ||
 * < 7:45-1 MS

1. Since we missed a faculty meeting this past week (snow day), we'll plan to have a faculty meeting this coming Tuesday, February 8. Agenda items will include 11-12 calendar, Read Naturally plans, and MAP testing.

2. The NCLB committee meets on Wednesday afternoon. One of the items they'll be discussing is a calendar for next school year. Brad sent two samples out to everyone for review. There will be some time at the faculty meeting to discuss and provide input.

3. The Coins for a Cure fundraiser will be carried out this coming week. Each room should have a jar to keep donated coins in. This should be forwarded to me on Friday. A total raised, along with announcing of the elementary room collecting the most money will be made at the varsity basketball games next Friday.

4. MAP testing starts here on Tuesday. Initially, our testing was not to begin until Tuesday afternoon; however, upon closer review, it was discovered that we wouldn't have enough time to complete testing in our "window" unless we starting in the morning. The schedule sent to everyone reflects that.

5. Tuesday morning is also the time we have the author Ry Sloth visiting us. Hopefully, we worked the MAP tests around his appearance.

Activity Calendar:

9BB @ Garrigan - 6:30 G BB @ Spencer - 6:15
 * Mon., Feb. 7 (Day 2/104):**

Faculty Meeting - 7:50 a.m. MAP testing JV BB @ Humboldt - 3:45 BB @ Humboldt - 6:15
 * Tue., Feb. 8 (Day 3/105):**

MAP testing NCLB meeting - 1:15
 * Wed., Feb. 9 (Day 4/106):**

MAP testing MS Science Fair
 * Thu., Feb. 10 (Day 5/107):**

MAP testing JV BB - Webster City - 4:30 BB - Webster City - 6:15
 * Fri., Feb. 11 (Day 6/108):**

ACT Testing here District Wrestling
 * Sat., Feb. 12**

Feb. 18 - Mid-quarter
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-11 LW 11-4 MS ||< 7:45-9 MS 9-1:30 Mtg 1:30-3 NCLB 3-4 LW ||< 7:45-10 MS 10-2 LW 2-4 MS ||< 7:45-11 LW 11-4 MS ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, Feb. 7**== ||< ==Tuesday, Feb. 8== ||< ==Wednesday, Feb. 9== ||< ==Thursday, Feb. 10== ||< ==Friday, Feb. 11== ||
 * < 7:45-1 MS



<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;"> =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">January 16, 2011 =

1. The move of equipment and supplies for the MS went very well on Thursday as most everything was moved within about 3 hours. A lot of work has been done to get classrooms ready for the first day of classes, but I'm sure it will take a few days/weeks for everything to settle completely into place. The building looks nice!

2. With everything being new for the middle school, I will likely spend the bulk of my time there this next week. By my projected schedule below, I have made plans to try to be in LW each day for at least a little while. One thing I'd like to have done by Tuesday is a set second semester schedule for specials.

3. The DARE parent meeting is to be Monday night at 7:00. Since the gym is busy until 8:00, we're going to try having the meeting in the library.

4. Tuesday morning should be our next faculty meeting. No set agenda at this time, but let me know if you have items you know of that should be reviewed.

5. Due to the snow days, we are extending the first semester through Tuesday. Second semester classes will begin on Wednesday. Grades will now be due on Monday, January 24.

Activity Calendar:

8B BB @ Clear Lake - 4:15 7B BB - Clear Lake - 4:15 9G BB - St. Edmond - 6:30 9B BB @ St. Edmond - 6:30
 * Mon., Jan. 17 (Day 1/91):**

Faculty Meeting - 7:50 a.m. MS Wr - here - 4:15 7G BB @ Humboldt - 4:15 8G BB @ Emmetsburg - 4:15 JV BB - Clear Lake - 4:30 BB - Clear Lake - 6:15 Wr @ Osage - 7:00
 * Tue., Jan. 18 (Day 2/92)**

1st day of Second Semester
 * Wed., Jan. 19 (Day 3/93)**

8G @ Clear Lake - 4:15 7G - Clear Lake - 4:15 9BB - Webster City - 6:30
 * Thu., Jan. 20 (Day 4/94)**

8B BB - St. Edmond - 4:15 7B @ St. Edmond - 4:15 7G BB @ Emmetsburg - 4:15 8B BB - Humboldt - 4:15 (at OB Laing) JV BB @ Clarion-G - 5:00 BB @ Clarion-G - 6:15
 * Fri., Jan. 21 (Day 5/95)**

Jan. 24 - Grades due Feb. 10 - MS Science Fair Feb. 9 - MAP testing begins
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 10-11:30 LW 11:30-4 MS ||< 7:45-9 LW 9-1 MS 1-2 LW 2-4 MS ||< 7:45-10 LW 10-4 MS ||< 7:45-1 MS 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-11 LW 11-4 MS ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, Jan. 17**== ||< ==Tuesday, Jan. 18== ||< ==Wednesday, Jan. 19== ||< ==Thursday, Jan. 20== ||< ==Friday, Jan. 21== ||
 * < 7:45-10 MS















= = = = Lucia Wallace Weekly = =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">August 26, 2010 =

LWStaff wiki ... if you're reading this it means that I have done what I needed to, and you have successfully joined the LWStaff wiki!! Once up and running, this is where you'll find the latest edition of the Weekly. In addition, I will be adding "pages", displayed to the left, where you can find past issues of the Weekly, and other information pertinent to LW Staff members. Since this is being built primarily for staff convenience, you're invited to suggest other documents that you think might be good additions to this site. I have a number more written down so far, and will be adding steadily over the coming weeks.

1. Congratulations to everyone on a successful start to the 10-11 school year. Our current enrollment is 171 (85 4th graders and 86 5th graders). First day numbers are encouraging that overall district enrollment may be up again.

2. Blair has been in the building and classrooms several times already. I think his presence has promise to be a great help to us as we move through the year.

3. District expectations remain in place for use of the JMC gradebook regularly. Some of you might make daily entries, others once every few days. In general, it should be considered reasonable to update gradebooks at least on a weekly basis. Parents and/or students should be able to check their grades regularly. This would mean everyone needs to have items entered in the gradebook periodically, even if you don’t give daily assignments.

4. A reminder to all that if you discover outside the school day that you need a sub, you are asked to call Jan Struck (295-7480 or 341-7480). Lisa will still handle leave forms and arrange for subs for "planned" absences.

5. Teacher Associates also need to be aware that current district policy regarding personal leave is that each building is allowed one personal leave per day, with no “borrowing” between buildings. This should make monitoring much easier as it can be done within each building, rather than someone trying to keep track of district-wide leaves on a certain day.

6. Plans are to begin MAP testing the week of September 13. Scheduling will be coordinating among buildings so that we limit the potential for overloading the system, particularly with science testing, that includes a fair amount of graphics. This is likely something that Mr. Redenius will be involved in both here and at Bryant.

7. Our emergency drills seemed to go quite well. Evacuation for fire was especially quick. The disaster drill took a little longer, but with all 4th graders moving into the same space (boiler room) that's to be expected. Still, we had everyone under cover within about 2 minutes. We'll have another tornado drill in the next couple weeks. Our next fire drill will accompany fire prevention week in early October.

8. Representatives from the Boy and Girl Scouts are expected to be here for a quick assemblies Monday afternoon. Fourth graders will meet in the gym at 1:55 and fifth graders at 2:10. Each assembly should last only 10-15 minutes.


 * //Looking ahead//**... Mid-quarter is Tuesday, September 21.

=<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">September 3, 2010 =

1. As was mentioned earlier, you should find the Weekly announcements posted here. Also, if you want to refer back to an earlier edition, you should be able to find them by clicking on the "Weekly Archive" in the left-side margin.

2. Scheduling of MAP testing for the district has been discussed and an outline set. We will be testing starting in the afternoon of September 21, through Tuesday, September 28. I will be working on a specific schedule for our building and hope to share it at the faculty meeting on Tuesday morning.

3. An opportunity for the district has been secured that will allow us to dispose of old/unused electronic equipment without the normal charges. If you have any old/unused equipment - film strip projectors, film projectors, audio tape recorders, overhead projectors, etc. - that you aren't using, please get them to the office on Tuesday, September 7, and mark them "discard".

4. Homecoming is also approaching (week of September 27). A "farming theme" has been selected. AHS plans to include a food pantry drive as part of the celebration, and invites all district schools to join them. More details on this later.

5. As you work to complete required online trainings for Mandatory Reporting and Bloodborne Pathogens, you'll need to use the correct passwords to gain access. The Mandatory Reporting password is "mr08t". Bloodborne Pathogens password is "0sh08tr".

6. Communications are underway to schedule a visit with Pam Oster regarding Skills Iowa. We're aiming to get this scheduled during one of the district staff development times.

=<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly = =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">September 10, 2010 = 1. I believe Jackie has been working on our lab computers to make sure things are all ready to go for our MAP testing, which begins in a little over a week (September 21).

2. Shari was able to join a group of MS staff at the new building last week to finalize selection of the "accent color" to be used on one wall of each classroom. After comparing to some other choices, and changing lighting, it was consensus to stick with the blue originally selected last spring.

3. Room assignments have been tentatively assigned. Fifth grade classrooms are still positioned in the north pod, the two eastern-most rooms in each hallway there. I have tentatively placed Brad and Noel on the north side of the pod, and Shari and Kristi on the south side of the pod, basically because the boys restroom access is from the north hall and girls from the south. We'll talk about this as a group later to see if this is how we want to go, or not. Denise is also assigned a room in the 5/6 pod, 2nd from the west on the north hallway.

4. I will be planning to begin meetings with the 5th grade teachers soon to look at scheduling and staffing issues and options as we look to move into the middle school next year.

5. Considering how fast time seems to go, it's probably never too early to begin the process of "cleaning house" in preparation for the move next summer. It's likely that 5th grade rooms will be moved first so that current 5th grade classrooms can be cleaned in preparation for 3rd grade to move in. In going through your classrooms, you probably should look at items that are no longer used/needed. If you want to dispose of items, mark them as such and notify Connie. Other items that you know you want to move, but don't plan to use again this year, can be boxed in preparation. Although the move is several months away, I'm sure everyone will feel better if you're able to chip away at the preparations as we go through this year.

6. If you are needing to do the Mandatory Reporting training, or Bloodborne Pathogens training online, the passwords are "mr08t" and "0sh08tr", respectively. Remember the Mandatory Reporting training is required every 5 years. Staff members are responsible for checking their own files if unsure when you last completed this certification. Bloodborne Pathogens is required of all on an annual basis.

7. Homecoming is coming up the week of September 27. A "farming" theme of "Combine the Cubs" has been selected. More details should be out soon.

8. Wednesday is the next early out for staff development. Pam Oster, with Skills Iowa, will be here to meet with all HS and MS staff who have previously been trained. Special Ed teachers from grades 3-5 are also invited to join the group to get a look at the program as a potential piece of assistive technology. This session will be at the HS, in a location to be named. All other staff will have Wednesday to continue work on curriculum manager steps of entering all units, connecting benchmarks, identifying gaps and overlaps, and looking at 21st Century Skills. I would expect there will be a separate email coming out, perhaps with more detail. I will aim to get each grade-level teacher entered for each academic area on curriculum manager so that you can all have access.

9. Blogging will be an on-going expectation again this year. From the initial staff development session (September 1), you should blog on the session which you attended. If you attended the assistive technology session with Jackie Fonley, you'd find your blog question posted on the tech site (acsdtechpd). Click on the assistive technology page and discussion. If you worked with curriculum manager, you'll find your initial blog question posted on this LWStaff site. Just click on the discussion tab at the top of the page. It's my understanding that future posts will be on the pdtoday site. It would be great if you could post your reply by Wednesday.

Calendar Items:

MS CC @ Emmetsburg - 4:30 7FB - Emmetsburg - 4:30 10 FB @ Garner - 6:30 Board Meeting - 7:30 p.m.
 * Mon., Sept. 13 (Day 5/17):**

Rep Council - 7:50 8VB @ Forest City - 4:15 CC @ Storm Lake - 5:00 VB - Hampton-Dumont - 6 p.m.
 * Tue., Sept. 14 (Day 6/18):**

Staff Development Early out
 * Wed., Sept. 15 (Day 1/19):**

VB - Seton - 4:15 VB @ Bishop Garrigan - 6 p.m. Sw - Charles City, Spencer - 6 p.m.
 * Thu., Sept. 16 (Day 2/20):**

FB - Clear Lake - 7:30
 * Fri., Sept. 17 (Day 3/21):**

VB @ Forest City - 9 a.m. JV VB - Algona Tournament Sw @ Charles City
 * Sat., Sept. 18:**

MAP testing begins at LW on Tuesday afternoon, September 21. Homecoming week begins Monday, September 27. Picture Day is Tuesday, September 28...MAP testing also ends that day. Health Fair is scheduled on September 30
 * //Looking ahead//**... Mid-quarter is Tuesday, September 21.

=<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly = =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">September 17, 2010 = 1. MAP testing begins here on Tuesday afternoon. Note that testing times this year are scheduled at 50 minutes.

2. We have our faculty meeting on Tuesday morning. MAP testing, blogging, and possible interventions with non-proficient students will be among agenda items.

3. Staff Development blog questions are available on the pdtoday wiki site. There are questions there for Lucia Wallace, the Middle School, and High School posted. You should pick the question for the session you attended (LW has one question posted for Curriculum Manager). Susan and Denise can blog on either the MS or HS Skills Iowa question. Fifth grade teachers should be able to blog on the LW Curriculum Manager question, even though I know you spent last Wednesday's time in educational programming discussion.

4. If you are needing to do the Mandatory Reporting training, or Bloodborne Pathogens training online, the passwords are "mr08t" and "0sh08tr", respectively. Remember the Mandatory Reporting training is required every 5 years. Staff members are responsible for checking their own files if unsure when you last completed this certification. Bloodborne Pathogens is required of all on an annual basis.

5. Work continues on schedule on the new building. As we move through the year, fifth grade teachers will want to be weeding out items you no longer use and don't want to move. Also, as you use some materials that you have no plans to use later in the year, it would be OK to begin boxing some things up for the move. Even though it seems early, I'm guessing no one is going to want to look at the job of boxing up everything after school dismissal. Even though a lot will have to wait until school is out, anything that can be done during the year will save that much time and stress at the end of the year. See Connie if you need boxes or have questions on how to dispose of something.

6. Tuesday is mid-quarter. Please make sure mid-quarter grades are ready. We would like to send reports home on Friday.

Activity Calendar:

Tornado Drill - p.m. - weather permitting MS CC @ Humboldt - 4:15 8VB @ St. Edmond - 4:15 CC @ Humboldt - 5 p.m. 9, 10 FB - Spencer - 5 p.m.
 * Mon., Sept. 20 (Day 4/22):**

Faculty Meeting - 7:50 a.m. MAP testing begins - p.m. Mid-quarter 8FB @ Humboldt - 4:30 7FB - Humboldt - 4:30
 * Tue., Sept. 21 (Day 5/23):**

MAP testing
 * Wed., Sept. 22 (Day 6/24):**

MAP testing 8VB @ Humboldt - 4:15 VB @ Clarion-Goldfield - 6 p.m.
 * Thu., Sept. 23 (Day 1/25):**

MAP testing FB @ Hampton-D - 7:30 p.m.
 * Fri., Sept. 24 (Day 2/26):**

Swim at Des Moines North 9VB Algona Tournament
 * Sat., Sept. 25:**

Homecoming week begins Monday, September 27. MS Health Fair is September 28 Picture Day is September 29
 * //Looking ahead//**...

=<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly = =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">October 1, 2010 = 1. Our next faculty meeting will be Tuesday morning. We'll look a little closer at what plans we can put in place to further address the needs of students who struggle with reading and/or math.

2. This coming week is Fire Prevention Week. We are scheduled for a fire drill, conducted by the Algona Fire Department, on Tuesday morning, about 9:30. Be ready to direct evacuation of your students and try to remember to see that your classroom door is closed as you exit. Also, be aware that the Fire Department will often block an exit, "detain" students, or both. If you discover you're missing a student(s) when you're out of the building, do NOT reenter the building, but you should report the missing student to an official.

3. We've successfully worked our way through MAP testing, picture day, and Homecoming week! Good job everybody! Thanks to all for being flexible with changes to the normal schedules. The parade seemed to go well. It looked like everyone had a good time. Thanks for Mr. Singer for bringing his bulldog out to walk with LW students in the parade!

4. District administrators are working on refining the process of doing "walk-throughs" of classrooms. In working on this process, we're rotating our meeting sites and doing walk-throughs as a group in the building we're meeting in. This coming week, we're planning to meet at LW. This means sometime around 2:00, or so, we'll be coming into classrooms as a group of four (Mr. Fonley, Mr. Cecil, Mr. Kerkove, and I) will be visiting four or five classrooms at random. Again, we're doing this for our benefit, as administrators. The focus is not on evaluating teachers, but on building a consistency among administrators on what we're seeing.

5. Wednesday is our next early out for staff development. The main topic will be to utilize the fresh MAP data for planning differentiated lessons, based on readiness. More detailed information will likely be sent out. I believe special education teachers will be included in this. "Special" area teachers may well have time to meet as departments to continue work on 20th century skills.

Activity Calendar:

8VB @ Clarion-G - 4:15 MS CC @ Webster City - 5 p.m. 9, 10 FB @ Spirit Lake - 5 p.m.
 * Mon., Oct. 4 (Day 2/32):**

Faculty Meeting - 7:50 Fire Drill - 9:30 8FB @ Garrigan - 4:30 CC @ Eagle Grove - 4:30
 * Tue., Oct. 5 (Day 3/33):**

Staff Development early out - 1:30
 * Wed., Oct. 6 (Day 4/34):**

8VB - Humboldt - 4:15 VB - St. Edmond - 6 p.m.
 * Thu., Oct. 7 (Day 5/35):**

FB @ Ballard - 7:30
 * Fri., Oct. 8 (Day 6/36):**

SAT @ AHS MS Quiz Bowl at Emmetsburg 8VB - Invitational at AHS State Marching Band Contests
 * Sat., Oct. 2:**

End of First Quarter is Fri., Oct. 22
 * //Looking ahead//**...

= = Lucia Wallace Weekly = =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">October 8, 2010 =

1. This past week was a difficult one for many of our students, 6th grade in particular, as we dealt with the loss of Dayton Boleneus. Those of you who stopped in at the visitation, or attended the funeral probably heard just how Dayton's family felt about his "school family". Nita delivered an understandably emotional, and clearly heartfelt and sincere thank you to Dayton's school mates and teachers for being so good to him during his time with us. There were many things Dayton couldn't do, but appreciating "smiles", "hellos", and offers of help were all things he could, and did, do. Nita commented that when someone said "hi" in the grocery store, he might not know the name of the person, but he would smile and say "he's my friend". Dayton will probably be remembered by most of his classmates and teachers as the one who made __us__ smile, because he was always ready to share his. I think the family's comments about Dayton's schoolmates and the adults who worked with him are a great compliment. I also think they are also a great reminder about just how fragile life is, and how life is really too short to waste being upset or angry over something that's probably pretty trivial in the grand scheme of things. We should all strive to be more like Dayton. Share a smile often.

2. Our fire drill went very well this week. The firemen blocked an exit and "kidnapped two students". We still had a good evacuation time, and the teachers with the missing students both noted that when outside. Of course, if this happened, you'd want to report it to the nearest fire/policeman, but never go back into the building. Most classrooms doors were also closed, which is good as it helps cut the draft a spreading fire needs to move faster.

4. With Wednesday's review of MAP testing data, now is the time to apply the knowledge gained from those results. In case you had left a little early, Mr. Cecil wrapped up by noting a nice resource. On the pdtoday wiki, the bottom item on the menu on the left side of the page is "MAP Data". If you click on this, you will get all but one page of a nice reference guide on how to access various reports, and what they look like. I have a print copy of this same "Waterfall booklet" if anyone wants to look at it. It appears to be a good, quick resource on using MAP data.

The expectation before the next staff development (October 20), is that each core teacher work on at least two lessons where you differentiate, based on the MAP data for your class. Remember, you can differentiate content, process, or product. Also, a reminder that when you differentiate, it shouldn't be for each individual, but rather 2 or 3 relative groupings within a lesson. A blogging question should be posted next week, probably asking you to reflect on what you have, or what you are, using from MAP data and how you are differentiating.

Wednesday, October 20, is the next staff development, with this being a full day. The Skills Iowa presentation has been postponed until sometime next spring so plans will likely center on Iowa Core and Differentiation work.

5. Last Tuesday, I expected the administrators' meeting to be here; however, it was moved to BG that morning. One of the next two weeks, it is likely that we will be meeting here. Again, sometime during that Tuesday afternoon, four administrators (Mr. Fonley, Mr. Cecil, Mr. Kerkove, and I) will be visiting four or five classrooms at random to practice our "walk-through" skills. Although it's unusual to have four administrators in your room at once, don't worry. This visit is purely for our practice.

6. Work continues on refining plans for our reading intervention plan during AR time. October 25 is being targeted as a start date.

Thanks to everyone for the great birthday greetings today! I enjoyed everything and continue to appreciate all of you for being great folks to work with!

Activity Calendar:

Columbus Day VB - Eagle Grove - 4:15 9, 10 FB @ Storm Lake - 5 p.m. Swim @ Spencer - 6:30 Board Meeting - 7:30
 * Mon., Oct. 11 (Day 1/37):**

Rep Council - 7:50 NCC Cross Country meet @ Clarion - 4 p.m. 8FB - St. Edmond - 4:30 7FB @ St. Edmond - 4:30
 * Tue., Oct. 12 (Day 2/38):**

NCLB - 1:15
 * Wed., Oct. 13 (Day 3/39):**

VB - Clear Lake - 6 p.m.
 * Thu., Oct. 14 (Day 4/40):**

FB - Webster City - 7:30
 * Fri., Oct. 15 (Day 5/41):**

BGHS Quiz Bowl VB - Algona Invitational JV VB @ Forest City Tournament
 * Sat., Oct. 16:**

End of First Quarter is Fri., Oct. 22 PTS Conferences are Nov 8, 9
 * //Looking ahead//**...

=<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly = ==

=<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">October 15, 2010 =

1. This week is the end of the first quarter! We are asking that grades be in by the end of the day on Monday, October 25. We'll probably aim to get things ready to send out with kids by Thursday.

2. Don't forget to make use of MAP data to differentiate at least twice in your classes. This was the expectation delivered to those in the MAP sessions on October 6. A question was posted on the pdtoday wiki asking what data you used, and what you differentiated (content, process, or product). A blog question is posted for you on the pdtoday site, labeled LW/MS MAP data. Those of you who were in the "21st Century Skills" work session on October 6, should watch for a question posting. If one isn't up yet, it should be sometime on Monday.

In working with MAP data, don't forget the handy reference available online. To find this reference guide for MAP reports, go to the pdtoday site, and click on "MAP data" along the left-hand side. Again, I do have a print copy of that information, if you'd rather look at it that way.

Wednesday, October 20, is the next staff development, with this being a full day. Plans for the full year, as listed in the Professional Development page on this wiki, show the morning as time to work on 20th Century Skills, and the afternoon devoted to Characteristics of Effective Instruction (from Iowa Core) and Differentiation by Interest. Keep in mind, these were the plans made at the start of the year. I think there is a plan to talk some about locating resources to use for various Lexile levels. More detailed plans should be coming out.

3. Picture retakes for students are scheduled on Monday, October 25.

4. Work on the new Algona Middle School continues to progress. At last check, the office carpet has been laid and some cabinets installed. Installation of classroom cabinets appears about ready to begin. Terrazo work in the main hall and 7/8 pod is nearly complete. It's possible that a tour may be made available on Wednesday.

5. American Education Week is coming up in early November. The Committee with this responsibility will want to begin meeting to make plans. Nathan Countryman will again be in charge of this supplement at Algona Publishing. He would like all materials from each school by Wednesday, November 3, although the "drop dead" deadline is Friday, November 5. I'm not sure of the official theme, but usually the NEA site will have it.

6. We will have our next faculty meeting on Tuesday morning at 7:50. We have a few items, but a main topic will be to discuss the Reading Intervention program planned during AR time.

Activity Calendar:

10 FB - Humboldt - 6:30 ELC/TAG Retreat - 7 p.m.
 * Mon., Oct. 18 (Day 6/42):**

Faculty Meeting - 7:50 a.m. Swim @ Charles City - 6 p.m. VB @ Iowa Falls-Alden - 6 p.m.
 * Tue., Oct. 19 (Day 1/43):**

No school - Staff Development
 * Wed., Oct. 20:**

NCLB Rescheduled - 1:15
 * Thu., Oct. 21 (Day 2/44):**

End of 1st quarter FB @ Humboldt - 7:30 Craft Show
 * Fri., Oct. 22 (Day 3/45):**

ACT @ AHS Craft Show 6 a.m. - 6 p.m.
 * Sat., Oct. 23:**

All-staff picture, All-school picture, group pictures, picture retakes - Monday, October 25 Grades due - noon, Tuesday, October 26 American Education Week materials due - Wed., November 3 PTS Conferences are Nov 9, 11 Veterans' Day is Nov 11
 * //Looking ahead//**...

<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly
  <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">October 22, 2010 1. I know we had some server problems over the weekend that may well have caused some of you to not be able to get grades done when you had time over the weekend. We'd still like grades completed as soon as you can, but I understand that some of you may be unable to meet the original deadline set (Monday). Your efforts to get things done as soon as you can are appreciated.

2. Picture retakes for students are scheduled on Monday, October 25 and shouldn't take long.

3. Envelopes for the annual United Way appeal should be distributed soon, if they haven't already. In most recent years, more money has returned to Kossuth County than we have given, so it has a record of being a good vehicle of local support for various causes.

4. Potential good news on the American Education Week front. It was agreed at the recent NCLB meeting that we might move this activity from a building-by-building effort, to one coordinated district effort. So, instead of having a committee here responsible for "our page", we need a building rep to work on the district committee to coordinate this effort. Members of our committee (DeGeest, Roberts, Politte, Rodemeyer) should select one member to be our representative.

5. Please take heed of warnings given on use of facebook, texting, and other electronic communications. You should avoid ever "friending" a student on facebook. If you text students, you are advised to also send the text to the parents. If you use facebook at all, it's probably wise to avoid school topics, and be especially mindful of anything that should be confidential. Unfortunately, some educators have found their career in jeopardy due to misjudgments with electronic communications.

Activity Calendar:

Regional VB @ AHS - 7 p.m. PTO meeting Grades due today, or as soon as you can
 * Mon., Oct. 25 (Day 4/46):**

Rep Council - 7:50 a.m. HS Vocal Concert - 7:30
 * Tue., Oct. 26 (Day 5/47):**

1st Round FB playoffs
 * Wed., Oct. 27 (Day 6/48):**

VB - Regional Sem-finals
 * Thu., Oct. 28 (Day 1/49):**

Fall festival celebrations
 * Fri., Oct. 29 (Day 2/50):**

State CC meet at Ft Dodge Swim Regionals
 * Sat., Oct. 30:**

PTS Conferences are Nov 8, 9
 * //Looking ahead//**...

<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly
  <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">October 29, 2010 1. Our next faculty meeting will be Tuesday morning at 7:50. Jackie Fonley will be here to review items and status of those items on our "tech list" from last spring. We'll also have some time to talk about PTS conferences and MAP reports and possible at-risk help.

2. Envelopes for the United Way campaign should be turned in soon. A reminder that Kossuth County has historically fared very well when it comes to the amount of money sent to the county as compared to what was given.

3. I believe Jackie Fonley is coordinating an effort to produce an American Education Week supplement to the Algona newspapers in a few weeks. As we talked about at the faculty meeting, the focus is on including pictures that represent "indicators of progress" in meeting district goals.

4. An email should be coming to everyone regarding Wednesday's Staff Development activities. Tech is the focus this time around. Also, SMART board training is being offered from 4:00 until 6:30 on Wednesday. The present plan for our new building is to place SMART boards only in the rooms where teachers are likely to be using them. Training is a first step. If you're interested and haven't attended one of the earlier trainings, you might want to aim for this one. Notify Jackie Fonley if you're planning to attend. This training is for those needing the "basics", plus those who might have questions.

5. PTS Conferences are November 8 and 9. As we approach conferences, remember this is a great opportunity to listen to the parent and find out what they see/hear at home. If you have concerns, make sure you also include some positives so the parent doesn't become overwhelmed with negatives. Try to guide discussions away from complaints to "what can we do together". At the end of the conference, review any plan that was made, and thank the parent for attending. If any conference appears to be going a little long, you might suggest sitting up a separate conference time that would allow for a more in-depth discussion. We will provide MAP score reports and I will forward to each of you a copy of the "highlight" sheet we used last year to give you some basic information regarding MAPs.

Activity Calendar:

2nd Round FB playoffs
 * Mon., Nov. 1 (Day 3/51):**

Faculty Meeting - 7:50 a.m. VB Regional Finals Map meeting - at HS 2:30
 * Tue., Nov. 2 (Day 4/52):**

5th grade teacher meeting - 7:45 a.m. Early dismissal for Staff Development SMART training - 4:00
 * Wed., Nov. 3 (Day 5/53):**


 * Thu., Nov. 4 (Day 6/54):**

State Swimming
 * Fri., Nov. 5 (Day 1/55):**

AHS Quiz Bowl State Swimming Fall Play - 7:30
 * Sat., Nov. 6:**

PTS Conferences are Nov 8, 9 No School November 12
 * //Looking ahead//**...

<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly
  <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">November 5, 2010

1. PTS Conferences are Monday and Tuesday nights, November 8 and 9. Everyone should have MAP reports, along with a MAP letter, to give to parents. Hopefully, everyone feels comfortable with discussion of some basic information as we talked Friday morning.

As we approach conferences, remember this is a great opportunity to listen to the parent and find out what they see/hear at home. If you have concerns, make sure you also include some positives so the parent doesn't become overwhelmed with negatives (see next paragraph). Try to guide discussions away from complaints to "what can we do together". At the end of the conference, review any plan that was made, and thank the parent for attending. If any conference appears to be going a little long, you might suggest sitting up a separate conference time that would allow for a more in-depth discussion.

Conferences are one of our opportunities to increase parent engagement. As a district, this is probably an area we'd like to improve, especially when it comes to parents of "at-risk" students. Since I think we'd all agree we want to encourage all parents to attend and be engaged, let's keep in mind how many of those parents approach conferences. Many may not have had a particularly positive experience in school themselves. Some become reluctant to come to school, because all they typically hear are concerns about their child. If we're going to increase parental involvement, especially with parents of at-risk kids, we need to make sure the conference experience is one they would be willing to repeat. Again, remember some basics: include some positives, listen to their concerns and observations, guide discussion toward what can we do together, provide a reason for optimism, and thank the parent for attending.

2. I have discovered that blogging questions for those who were here on November 3 have been posted on the BG/Bryant wiki site. I will aim to get those questions posted for LW teachers on our wiki as well.

3. I know the HS and MS are switching upcoming staff development plans between November 17 and December 1. On the original schedule, November 17 was down as a "building initiative " day. Those buildings are staying with technology time on November 17, making December 1 the building initiative day. I'll let you know as soon as a decision is made on elementary plans.

4. Nick Kuecker will be starting with us on Monday. For this first week, he'll be mainly meeting us and observing in classes. He is scheduled in one 4th grade classroom each morning until 9:15. At that time, he will shift to Denise's room to assist there. I have had some questions asked about possibly creating an alternative schedule starting second semester, so we can look at that as well.

5. Hopefully, everyone remembered to move clocks back one hour as we return to Central Standard time until next spring. At least is will be light when we come to work, although it may be dark as we leave!

Activity Calendar:

PTS Conferences (Elem, HS) NC District Honor Choir State FB Quarterfinals
 * Mon., Nov. 8 (Day 2/56):**

PTS Conferences (Elem, MS) M Hilbert IEP 3:00
 * Tue., Nov. 9 (Day 3/57):**

State VB
 * Wed., Nov. 10 (Day 4/58):**

Veterans' Day PTS Conferences - (MS, HS)
 * Thu., Nov. 11 (Day 5/59):**

No School State VB
 * Fri., Nov. 12:**

State VB
 * Sat., Nov. 6:**

Early dismissal for Staff Development - Nov. 17 Mid-quarters due - Nov. 29
 * //Looking ahead//**...

<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly
  =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">November 12, 2010 =

1. Wednesday is the next staff development early out. As in the past, I would expect more detailed directions will be emailed out to everyone, but plans are to have "building initiative" time for elementary buildings. One of our major initiatives was to plan an intervention program to assist non-proficient students in making up some ground. Our new Read Naturally materials are here and our steering committee (McLaughlin, Sudol, Gerhardt, DeGeest) will meet on Tuesday morning to organize materials and prepare to present them to the staff as a whole on Wednesday.

2. Another of our initiatives was to hopefully develop some at-risk support, which was made available to us at the start of the day. Nick Kuecker is starting the day working with 4th grade students, then shifting to assist Denise for the final 20-25 minutes before he goes to AHS.

3. Tuesday morning is scheduled to be a faculty meeting. An agenda will be sent out later.

Activity Calendar:

W Woodyard IEP - 3:00 p.m. VB, Swim, CC Banquet FB Semi Finals
 * Mon., Nov. 15 (Day 6/60):**

Faculty meeting - 7:50 a.m. FB, Cheerleading Banquet MS Vocal Concert - 7:30
 * Tue., Nov. 16 (Day 1/61):**

Early dismissal for SD E Morris IEP - 3:45
 * Wed., Nov. 17 (Day 2/62):**

All State Music Festival
 * Thu., Nov. 18 (Day 3/63):**

A Wagner IEP - 7:45 All State Music Festival FB Championships
 * Fri., Nov. 19 (Day 4/64):**

FB Championships
 * Sat., Nov. 20:**

Nov. 24 - Dismiss for Thanksgiving Nov 29 - Mid quarters due
 * //Looking ahead//**...

<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly
  =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">November 19, 2010 =

1. Progress on the new middle school continues as a rapid pace. Cabinetry is installed in classrooms and nearly all carpet. White boards and bulletin boards have been ordered, and should be installed soon. Hallway lockers should be arriving shortly. It still seems very possible that current middle school teachers may be able to have some boxes moved in (by custodial staff) during December. Once the building is turned over to the district (possibly before Christmas), staff would be able to go in to begin unpacking and storing materials. Planning is underway for middle school student tours and a community open house, again, possibly before Christmas. Tours for current LW students, who will all be in the new facility next year, will also be planned with the intial tours, or possibly in the spring. The move of MS classroom furnishing is still scheduled on Thursday, January 13.

2. Plans remain in place for 5th grade classrooms to move right after school is dismissed this spring. Once we've moved out, I would expect this building would be cleaned, with 3rd grade moving once rooms are ready. The same plan would follow for cleaning of Bryant and moving of 1st grade once those rooms are ready. A list of "moving buddies" has been organized so that all faculty would have responsibility for one day of moving, either in January (MS and HS staff) or summer (Elementary). That would mean when the current MS moves in January, teachers here would not be expected to work. Your moving day will come at the end of the school year. Friday, January 14, is listed as a "no-school" day, so no one would be expected to work that day. Some MS staff may choose to work in their new rooms to help get things unpacked and stored, but it would be up to them.

3. There has been, and continues to be, discussion about staffing assignments for next school year. Recently, I've heard a number of stories allegedly attributed to 5th grade, current MS staff, and HS staff, about what is or isn't going to happen next year, and what some faculty member's assignments will be. While it's understandable (and probably desirable) for staff to be thinking about this, we need everyone to slow down a little. Don't believe every story you hear as being accurate and the result of decisions already made. No final staffing decisions for 2010-11 have been made to my knowledge. I have heard stories from "the 5th grade wants to be left alone", to "certain MS staff members are being shifted to other assignments, including high school classes".

A process is underway to work our way through the implications of middle school scheduling options and available staffing for 2010-11. I have met with the 5th grade teachers to work on determining what a 5th grade student day will look like next year, what specials might look like, and what we would prefer to maintain for 5th grade classrooms in the new setting, if possible. I'll be having another meeting with 5th grade teachers soon. We'll also be looking at 6th grade to see first if we want to make any adjustments to the 6th grade schedule, and if the degree of staff flexibility needed would be available. I think it would be our goal that everyone would know of any changes to their teaching assignment as soon as we can next spring.

Based on discussions so far, I don't think there's much, if any, interest in totally departmentalizing 5th grade, so I think that can be almost completely ruled out. It could be that next year will look very much like what we have this year for grades 5 through 8. Then again, we are looking at both 5th and 6th grade scheduling to see if there are changes we believe would be positive for kids, then look at the staffing needs that would be connected to any change. Of course, most individual changes have a "ripple" effect, so we'll have to make sure we have all middle school classes covered when all is said and done. While there's no problem with individual staff members discussing potential issues or proposing "food for thought" ideas, for everyone's benefit, the only meetings held to discuss options and plans need to be part of a coordinated plan, scheduled through me. Any ideas proposed by an individual staff members are just that: ideas presented as food for thought. No one should take an idea being floated around as "the plan". Although administration has the final responsibility to assign and schedule teachers, input will continue to be sought from anyone impacted by any contemplated changes. So, before I would recommend any change, everything in the MS would be covered, and you would have been included in discussions if your assignment would be impacted.

Bottom line, if you have concerns, questions, or suggestions, let me know. Don't, however, allow yourself to get caught up in various stories that might be around.

4. The Read Naturally committee is planning one more day of planning/coordinating of materials on Tuesday. Thanks to Brad, Noel, Kayla, and Anita for their work in planning this and training everyone during our last staff development day.

5. I've received information from Marv Chickering regarding the Algona Nativity Scene. If anyone is interested in visiting this exhibit (connection to history, art), Mr. Chickering is the man to contact to set up a time.

6. Monday, November 29 is mid-term. Let's aim to have everything in and ready by Tuesday morning so Lisa can print them for distribution.

7. Now that snow and heating season are here, a couple reminders for everyone: Please don't block the back sidewalk at John has to get through to clean the playground. If the alley isn't plowed yet, please park in front of the school. Please don't put anything on the univents in your classroom.

8. Thanksgiving is next week! What are you thankful for? Hopefully, you have a long list. We all should. I hope everyone is able to enjoy the long weekend and time with family or friends. If you travel, do so safely!

Activity Calendar:

PTO meeting
 * Mon., Nov. 22 (Day 5/65):**

Rep Council 7:50 a.m. G BB - Forest City - 6:15 School Board meeting - 7:30
 * Tue., Nov. 23 (Day 6/66):**

Early dismissal for Thanksgiving vacation - 2:30
 * Wed., Nov. 24 (Day 1/67):**

Thanksgiving Day
 * Thu., Nov. 25:**

No school
 * Fri., Nov. 26:**

Nov 30 - Mid quarters due Dec. 1 - next SD early dismissal
 * //Looking ahead//**...

<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly
  =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">November 26, 2010 =

1. Hope everyone enjoyed Thanksgiving Day and the whole weekend!

2. Monday, November 29 is mid-term. Let's aim to have everything in and ready by Tuesday morning so Lisa can print them for distribution.

3. Now that snow and heating season are here, a couple reminders for everyone: Please don't block the back sidewalk at John has to get through to clean the playground. If the alley isn't plowed yet, please park in front of the school. Please don't put anything on the univents in your classroom.

4. Plans are being made to arrange tours of the new middle school for everyone, from grade 4, up. Tentative plans are for our students to tour on Tuesday, December 21. Fifth graders will be going to see the Nativity Scene that day, so we'll try to coordinate transportation and do both while they're out of the building. Fourth graders will also be scheduled for tours on that day.

Plans are also being made for an official ribbon cutting with the Chamber of Commerce coffee at 9:30 that morning. A community open house is being planned for later that afternoon and evening.

Work in the building continues at a rapid pace. Things are looking good!

5. With our one no school day, the last day of school is now Tuesday, May 24.

6. Our next Staff Development early out is Wednesday. I believe continued work on 21st Century Skills is on the docket for LW staff, but details will likely be out at the first of the week.

Activity Calendar:

8G BB @ Humboldt - 4:15 7G BB - Humboldt -4:15 B BB @ Charles City - 6:15 9G BB @ St. Edmond - 6:30 9B BB - St. Edmond - 6:30
 * Mon., Nov. 29 (Day 1/67):**

Rep Council 7:50 a.m. Mid-quarter grades due Iowa Core Meeting at Humboldt MS Wr @ Webster City - 4:15 G BB @ Clear Lake - 6:15
 * Tue., Nov. 30 (Day 2/68):**

Staff Development early out - 1:30 M Jensen IEP - 5 p.m.
 * Wed., Dec. 1 (Day 3/69):**

9 BB @ Garner - 4 p.m. 8B BB @ Humboldt - 4:15 7B BB - Humboldt - 4:15 Wr @ Iowa Falls- 6:30
 * Thu., Dec. 2 (Day 4/70):**

7B BB @ Emmetsburg - 4:15 JV BB - Iowa Falls-Alden - 4:30 BB - Iowa Falls-Alden - 6:15
 * Fri., Dec. 3 (Day 5/71):**

Sat., Dec. 4: Spirit Lake Quiz Bowl Wr @ Eagle Grove Invit - 11 a.m. G BB @ Charles City - 1 p.m.

Dec. 15 - SD early dismissal Dec. 21 - MS tour/open house Dec. 22 - 2:15 dismissal for Christmas
 * //Looking ahead//**...

<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly
 <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;"> =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">December 3, 2010 =

1. I think everyone received an email from Mr. Fonley regarding the small fire in the new building. It is still hoped that this will be only a minor set back in preparations.

2. Plans are being made to arrange tours of the new middle school for everyone, from grade 4, up. Tentative plans are for our students to tour on Tuesday, December 21. Mrs. Crouch is helping to establish a schedule coordinating with the 5th grade visits to the Nativity Scene that same day. I believe all staff will get a tour on December 15 near the close of our staff development time that day. HS students will get a quick tour during homerooms during the week of December 13. MS students will tour on December 20. Also being planned is a Chamber of Commerce coffee/Ribbon-cutting at 9:30 Tuesday, December 21 and a community open house later that afternoon and evening.

3. On Tuesday, we'll be headed to the MS auditorium for a science assembly at 1:15. Mr. Louwagie lined up this program for our students, which is expected to last about 60 minutes.

4. We have our next regular faculty meeting on Tuesday morning. Some agenda items ill be: review of at-risk and intervention programs; bucket promotion; and day before Christmas plans.

5. Sounds like we have a new 4th grade student coming. Nick Tiili (pronounced "tee lee") will be here to visit some on Tuesday. Information received from at the middle school is that the students would likely be starting here on December 13.

Activity Calendar:

8G BB - Clear Lake 7G BB @ Clear Lake - 4:15 HS Concert - 7:30 p.m.
 * Mon., Dec. 6 (Day 6/72):**

Faculty meeting - 7:50 a.m. Science Assembly - 1:15-2:15 8B BB @ Emmetsburg - 4:15 7B BB - Emmetsburg - 4:15 MS Wr @ Humboldt - 4:15 JV BB - Clarion-G - 4:30 BB - Clarion-G - 6:15 9 BB @ Emmetsburg - 6:30
 * Tue., Dec. 7 (Day 1/73):**

NCLB - 1:15 p.m.
 * Wed., Dec. 8 (Day 2/74):**

8B BB - Clear Lake - 4:15 7B BB @ Clear Lake - 4:15 Wr @ St. Edmond - 6:00 9BB - Humboldt - 6:30
 * Thu., Dec. 9 (Day 3/75):**

JV BB @ Webster City - 4:30 JV Wr - Algona Tournament - 5 p.m. BB @ Webster City - 6:15
 * Fri., Dec. 10 (Day 4/76):**

ACT @ AHS South O'Brien Quiz Bowl Wr - Martin Family Tournament - 11 a.m.
 * Sat., Dec. 11:**

Dec. 15 - SD early dismissal Dec. 21 - MS Open House. LW tour of new MS Dec. 22 - 2:15 dismissal for Christmas
 * //Looking ahead//**...

<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly
 <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;"> =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">December 17, 2010 =

1. I just discovered that the December 10 update of this page was never saved. Rather than repost, I'm going to update as some items...such as the reminder that a tour of the new MS would be available around 3:00, are now past. Sorry I didn't realize until now it wasn't on the wiki.

2. Work continues on final preparations for the MS. Several of you got an opportunity to walk through yesterday. As you probably heard at some point, Rick would like to know if you want any "cork strips" put up on the walls in your room. If so, where you would like them. Rick says they have ordered a lot of cork strip for hallways and classrooms. Since we won't be moving until the end of the year, you don't need to decide right away. When you do know, though, let me know. I will be forwarding everyone's requests.

3. If anyone has questions about the new building and/or rooms, let me know. If I don't have the answer, I will try to get it for you. Rick is super busy at this time as they rush to get the building ready for the mid-January move, so he'd prefer that we don't email him as he likely won't be checking, and answering, emails daily.

4. A few questions that have been asked and answered:

Outside doors that will be accessible using your key card/fob include: front door, south door (by softball field), and north door. Right now, I would assume that 5th grade staff will choose to park on the street to the north of the school and come in that door, so you may normally use the north door to enter. Your current "key card" or "fob" will also work to open the doors on the new building. Access to the front doors may be limited to office staff.

Classroom doors will each have a separate key, which you'll get later.

Nothing should be affixed to your wooden classroom door. Foam "sticky pads" have been ordered for mounting posters on the walls and/or cupboards. Tape may NOT be used on any wall or cupboard surface. You are also asked to not use staples on the cork strips. Push pins, or similar items work well.

Cork strips will also be mounted in the hallways for displays.

Shelves in the cupboards are adjustable, or may be taken out, if desired. If taken out, it is requested that they be kept in the classroom, though, rather than being stored elsewhere.

5. Tours for LW students are planned on Tuesday, December 21. Mrs. Harms and Mrs. Kitzinger's classes are scheduled to go at 10:30, with Mrs. Gerhardt and Ms. DeGeest's classes at 11:20. Fifth grade classes will go in the afternoon, in conjunction with trips to the Nativity Scene. Mr. McLaughlin goes to the Nativity at 12:05, then to the MS at 12:55. Mr. Sudol's class is taken to the Nativity at 12:50, then on to the MS at 1:40. Mrs. Roberts' is picked up at 1:45 for the Nativity visit, then on to the MS at 2:30. I will arrange for buses. It is possible on our tours that some rooms (Art, for example) may be "off limits" due to floor finishing. If this is the case, the door will be taped off.

6. On Wednesday, we have our sing-a-long at 10:30, then our Band Concert at 1:30, with a 2:15 dismissal for vacation.

7. DARE classes are to begin on our first day back in January. Mr. Fisher will meet with Mrs. Roberts' class from 9:45-10:45 and Mrs. Crouch's class from 10:45-11:45. I have not been able to make connections with Mrs. Stence to verify times, yet.

8. We will be putting out a "corrected" copy of the second semester schedule soon. There are a couple slight changes being made to Music times in order to provide Sheila with a little more transition time. Also, I know some media times are being altered. As long as it works for you and Mrs. Lavrenz, it's fine, just make sure Lisa and/or I know so we have a correct schedule in the office.

9. We are also looking at ways in which we might be able to help Denise deal with the increasing demands of meeting all special education needs in our building. One of the ways is to shift a little more of Rita's time into support of Special Ed. If this happens, it's possible that Rita may not be able to do all the support activities she's done for regular classroom teachers. If this becomes necessary, we've talked about the potential for Tish to help with some paper correction, or perhaps an increase in HS student volunteer time for such things. It's very possible you won't notice any change, but I thought everyone should be aware of the potential.

10. I wanted to choose a day to provide lunch for the LW staff again this year as a way of offering some "Christmas cheer" to everyone from Dee and I. Unfortunately, with everything going on, I haven't been able to find a date that worked well, so, we'll have to settle for wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year now, and we'll aim to schedule a lunch in early January!

Activity Calendar:

8G BB @ Eagle Grove - 4:15 6th grade to Science Center 7G BB - Eagle Grove - 4:15 JV BB - St. Edmond - 4:30 BB - St. Edmond - 6:15
 * Fri., Dec. 17 (Day 3/81):**

MS Tours of new building - a.m. 7B @ Emmetsburg - 4:15 8G @ St. Edmond - 4:15 7G - St. Edmond - 4:15 9BB @ Clear Lake - 6:30 Parent Financial Aid night - 7 p.m.
 * Mon., Dec. 20 (Day 4/82):**

Faculty Meeting - 7:50 a.m. Ribbon-cutting at new MS - 9:30 a.m. LW Tours of new building - 4th a.m., 5th p.m. 5th visits Nativity - p.m. 8G - Clarion-G - 4:15 MS Wr @ Clarion-G - 4:15 JV BB - B Garrigan - 4:00 MS open house - 4-6:30
 * Tue., Dec. 21 (Day 5/83):**

Sing-along - 10:30 Band Concert - 1:30 Dismissal - 2:15
 * Wed., Dec. 22 (Day 6/84):**

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Jan. 3 - classes resume, DARE begins Jan. 12 - end of semester Jan. 13, 14 - No school
 * //Looking ahead//**...

<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly
 <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;"> =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">January 4, 2011 =

1. As we move closer and closer to the move day for the MS, I will likely be spending more of my time in that building, although I will still aim to be here at some point every day. Although work continues on the new building, everything remains on schedule for the move of the MS to the new building on Thursday, January 13. That day is a work day for all MS and HS faculty. It is NOT a contract day for elementary teachers, nor is Friday, January 14. So, how you choose to spend those days is completely up to you. You will have a district-paid work day following the end of the school year as our 5th grade moves.

2. Wednesday, January 12, is the end of the first semester, so grades will be due early the following week. Wednesday would be day 92, so should we miss a day (snow is in the forecast for Monday), we'll probably still leave the end of the semester there. I will aim to get a final, and corrected, second semester specials schedule out yet this week.

3. DARE classes have begun for this school year. A parent night is being set up for Monday, January 17 at 7:00. A letter should be coming soon for this.

Activity Calendar:

8B BB @ St. Edmond - 4:15 (bus leaves 2:45) 7B BB - St. Edmond - 4:15 Wr - WC/EG - 6 p.m. 9BB - Estherville-LC - 6:30
 * Thu., Jan. 6 (Day 4/88):**

8G BB - St. Edmond - 4:15 7G BB @ St. Edmond - 4:15 JV BB @ Hampton-D - 3:45 BB @ Hampton-D 6:15
 * Fri., Jan. 7 (Day 5/89):**

9BB - Clarion-G - 9:30 a.m. Wr @ Forest City - 9:30 a.m. B BB - Garner-H - 5 p.m.
 * Sat., Jan. 8:**

Jan. 12 - end of semester Jan. 13 - moving day (MS/HS teachers have paid work day) Jan. 14 - no school Jan. 17 - 1st day in new MS
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-10 LW 10-2 MS 2-3 LW 3-4 MS ||< 7:45-8:30 LW 8:30-9 MS 9-1:30 Mtg 1:30-4 MS ||< 7:45-1 MS 1-4 LW ||< 7:45-9:30 LW 9:30-11:30 MS 11:30-4 out of town ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, Jan. 3**== ||< ==Tuesday, Jan. 4== ||< ==Wednesday, Jan. 5== ||< ==Thursday, Jan. 6== ||< ==Friday, Jan. 7== ||
 * < 7:45-1 MS



<span style="background-color: #ff0000; color: #ffffff; display: block; font-size: 280%; text-align: center;">Lucia Wallace Weekly
 <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;"> =<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #000000; display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">January 9, 2011 =

1. Wednesday is the last day of the 1st semester, and the last day of school for the week. A reminder that elementary staff are not expected to work on either Thursday or Friday. You will be expected to work one day following the end of the school year as your "moving day".

2. This coming Thursday is moving day for the middle school. Hopefully, the weather cooperates. As of this writing, it sounds as though we're going to get some early-week snow. At this point, who knows if we may be looking at a late-start, early dismissal, or even a "snow day". Sounds like the concerns will be mainly Monday and Tuesday, so our plans for Wednesday and Thursday should be able to go ahead as planned. With the MS move imminent, and a fair amount of work to do in my MS office, I'll likely spend the majority of my time there this week. I am planning to start each day here, though, and will be available, as always, in case of an immediate need.

3. I have picked up some corrections to our "specials schedule" for the second semester. I will be trying to verify the times so that a "final" schedule can be posted. Second semester will begin on Monday, January 17.

4. With limited choices, the DARE parent meeting has been set on Monday, January 17. The letter of invitation was prepared and sent before it was noted that Mr. Schreiber has the gym reserved from 6-8 p.m. As a result, we'll likely plan to host the meeting in the library.

Activity Calendar:

9BB - Clarion-G - 9:30 a.m. Wr @ Forest City - 9:30 a.m. B BB - Garner-H - 5 p.m.
 * Sat., Jan. 8:**

8G BB - Humboldt - 4:15 7G BB @ Humboldt - 4:15 9BB - St. Edmond - 6:30 School Board Meeting - 7:30
 * Mon., Jan. 10 (Day 6/90):**

MS Wr @ St. Edmond - 4:15 (bus leaves 2:45) Wr - Estherville-LC - 6 p.m. Office training -
 * Tue., Jan. 11 (Day 1/91)**

Last day of 1st semester Phone/intercom training at HS Library - 7:45 a.m. Assembly - 1:00 Travel to new MS for mini-schedule - p.m. Phone/intercom training at HS Library - 3:45 p.m.
 * Wed., Jan. 12 (Day 2/92)**

Moving Day 9BB - Emmetsburg - 6:30
 * Thu., Jan. 13**

No school BB @ Iowa Falls-Alden - 6:15
 * Fri., Jan. 14**

Jan. 17 - 1st day in new MS Jan. 18 - Grades due Feb. 10 - Science Fair Feb. 15 - MAP testing begins
 * //Looking ahead//**...

My plans for next week... 10-4 MS ||< 7:45-9 LW 9-1 MS 1-4 Training Mtg ||< 7:45-10 LW 10-4 MS ||< Moving day ||< No school ||
 * ~ ==**Monday, Jan. 10**== ||< ==Tuesday, Jan. 11== ||< ==Wednesday, Jan. 12== ||< ==Thursday, Jan. 13== ||< ==Friday, Jan. 14== ||
 * < 7:45-10 LW