Think about this...

As the days grow closer for the "first day", it is important to spend some time reflecting on some very important issues. We all know when school starts, it is like a motorcross bike race-wild and fast. One of the most important things we can do as a school is begin the process of creating a shared vision. I would like each of you to reflect on the following questions as you take that last sip of lemonade at the pool:

• Why do we exist?
• What do we hope to become?
• What commitments must we make to our school that will improve our ability to fulfill our purpose?
• How will we know we are successful? (Dufour & Dufour?)

As we talk together on these topics, let's see how what unfolds...

Getting Ready...

The next few days will be a whirlwind, to be sure.
Our goal is to send student assignment letters home by Wednesday, August 12.
We have a few volunteers. More help is always welcome-many hands make the load lighter.
Now would be a good time to begin revising your website. A great welcome back to school page is always great. If you would like to come in to work in your rooms next week-9-3 would be fine. We won't have any supplies set up, so focus on getting your rooms ready for now. See you soon.

I have just finished two full days of amazing workshops. There is a lot to share about the technology we have in the building and the implications for instruction. I can't wait to share what I have learned. I am going to post something each day so I create a habit to blog regularly.

The first days...

I Look to see everyone 8:00 sharp on Monday, August 17 in the gym. We will spend the entire day working on PBS. The work put into starting up has been enormous and the committee has done a great job. We will have lunch as well. This summer has flown by but this school year will be the best ever. Other dates/info to keep in mind are:

• August 12-Student assignment letters go out (anyone who can help "stuff", let me know)
  

• August 19-staff workday-12:00-7:30 (open house-5:30-7:30)

• August 20/21-required central office staff development (check the calendar I sent you)

• August 25-First student day

Please plan on having a brief meeting the afternoon of the 18th as well. Remember check this blog daily:-) I will do my best to stay on point

Let's Blog

I realize the power of technology and its ability to make what we do more effective. Time is a valuable but limited commodity that all teachers need. I plan to use technology to communicate smarter, faster and more consistently. I want to model everything that I hope teachers use starting with this daily blog. This year, instead of emailing our weekly updates or even posting the daily announcements on the bulletin board, I am expecting all staff to visit this blog daily to get up-to date information, announcements schedules changes and whatever needs to be given out on a regular basis. This will be just one of the ways we hope to use the available technology around us and get it into the hands of our students. Let's go...