Wednesday December 15 2010
Today is day 1 on the specials calendar
Third grade shopping day
NO LTM today.
Kindergarten Field trip.
Fire drill today at 10:00. Please have kids with coats on. We have to do the drill but will speed it up.
Temperature expected to rise above freezing-limited time outside (just a few minutes at best)

Tuesday, December 14 2010
Today is day 7 on the specials calendar.
No LTM today.
No staff meeting today
Second grade den dollar shopping.
Teacher of the Year voting through Wednesday at noon
Today we have to have a fire drill around 2:05 (or shortly after the last class has finished lunch). No surprises-go ahead and have the kids ready with coats on. I am not trying to "simulate " any particular scenario. Even as cold as it it, fire drills are the law.
Weather is still very cold-no outside play.
K field trip on Wednesday.
I am watching TV and the reports are purposefully vague. Just watch the skies and listen up.

Wednesday December 8 2010
Today is day 3 on the specials calendar
first grade den dollar shopping
fourth grade field trip
third grade LTM
second grade LTM
today Teacher of the year nominations begin. Please turn in nominations in box in front office.

Tuesday December 7 2010
Fifth grade den dollar shopping day
Fourth grade field trip-two classes
Fourth grade LTM
Ron at Principal's meeting in the am
STAFF MEETING-AFTER SCHOOL
Thanks to Mrs. Madren for coming out to skate night last night. She and I were the only staff members to come. Everyone should try to make one skate night-the students would really love it.

Monday December 6 2010
Fifth grade LTM
Fourth grade Den dollar shopping
Staff meeting tomorrow
Kim Dooley out today

The Gibson Blogger is back!

Friday, December 3 2010
Today is day 7 on the specials calendar
K LTM
Third grade trip to Nutcracker performance-lunch schedule altered-affected homerooms received an email/note
Secret Santa starts December 13, not December 6
Den dollar shopping starts next week. Homerooms received emails.
As you do Christmas shopping or pull out things for Christmas, the Grizzly den is always needing donations, especially this time of year. It doesn't have to be a "kid gift". many students buy gifts for family members. If you don't have anything, donations are always welcome.
Let's fill up the Christmas trees with student made ornaments

Monday November 29 2010
Today is day 3 on the specials calendar
Fifth grade LTM
After-school tutoring

Monday November 22 2010
Today is day 1 on the specials calendar
NO LTM's this week.
Please sign up in the mailroom if you are planning to attend the staff holiday social on December 11. You are welcome to bring a guest. Please pay hospitality dues as soon as possible.

Friday November 19 2010
Today is day 7 on the specials calendar

Imagine It! reading walkthroughs-please make sure whatever schedule is posted outside your door, you adhere to and Reading is taught before 12:00. Please refer to schedule for debriefing coverage times and partners.

Classisifed staff have arranged for a pot luck breakfast to take place after duties as a part of the Classified recognition day held earlier this week. All classified staff members will be back at their work stations by 9:15.

No Kindergarten LTM today.
Please encourage students to join the Weekend Reader club. Turn Registrations in to Mr. Davis's mailbox.

Thursday November 18 2010


Today is day 6 on the specials calendar.
Principal's meeting-Ron away in the morning
First grade LTM
Tutoring after-school
Title 1 parent meeting
If any students turn in registration forms for the Weekend Reading Club, please put those in Mr. Davis' mailbox as soon as possible. Each student that registers will receive a reading log.


Imagine walkthroughs on Friday. Please adjust your schedule so that you are teaching Reading in the morning. some of you have mentioned wanting to try a different schedule. Please send me a copy of the new schedule and post it outside your room. It is very important that what you posted is what you are teaching-especially for these walkthroughs.

Wednesday November 24 is a scheduled leave day, not a workday. Staff members do not have to call anything in or sign up. That is a leave day scheduled in the calendar by the school board. Just stay home and start cooking !

Please let Mr. Davis know if you will not be eating in the cafeteria next week. If you have done so, thanks. If you are eating in the cafeteria every day next week, no response is needed.

Wednesday, November 17 2010
Today is day 5 on the specials calendar.
Second grade testing
Third grade LTM
Imagine It! training for teacher assistants after school
Fourth grade writing scoring session
Teacher evaluation process training-after school Mrs. Kanoy's classroom. I will offer additional training for those who cannot stay this afternoon.
Classified school employee day-classified staff members will have 30 minutes duty free lunch today in recognition of all they do. Mrs. Rominger has a arranged for special refreshments. They will be served in 610.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Today is day 4 on the specials calendar
Second grade testing
4th/5th grade music performance @ 10:15-classrooms will be called shortly before then.
STAFF MEETING after school-certified staff only.
Classified School employee day on Wednesday. Classifed staff have 30 minutes duty free lunch.

Wednesday November 24 is a scheduled leave day, not a workday. Staff members do not have to call anything in or sign up. That is a leave day scheduled in the calendar by the school board. Just stay home and start cooking !

Homeroom teachers, please let me know if you plan to not in in the cafeteria any day next week. Mrs. Meckley has to order food for next week and we don't want to waste food.

Classified staff members had planned to do a pot luck breakfast Wednesday morning as a part of the Classified school employee day. With testing going on Wednesday and proctors needed, that won't work. I have approved for this pot luck to be held Friday morning. Classified staff members who participate will do their morning duties and be at their work stations by 9:15 at the latest. This should not interfere with Imagine It ! teaching or coverage in the afternoon.
I also want to remind everyone, I have never had a problem if hallways or grade levels get togetherand provide a potluck type of thing on their hall or for their grade level.

Monday November 15, 2010
Today is day 3 on the specials calendar.
Second grade testing today through Wednesday.
Fifth grade LTM
Staff meeting tomorrow after school-certified staff.

Friday November 12 2010
Today is day 2 on the specials calendar.

K LTM

Wednesday November 10, 2010

Today is day 1 on the specials calendar.
NO third grade LTM today.
K field trip to Greensboro today
Report cards go home today.
No school tomorrow for Veteran's Day.
PBIS meeting this afternoon.

PEP's are due for signature on Friday, November 12. If you would like to hear more about PEP's-we will have a meeting in Mrs. Kanoy's room on Friday at 7:15 to go over the powerpoint teachers received.

Tuesday November 9, 2010
Today is day 7 on the specials calendar.
4th grade LTM
Staff meeting after school for certified staff only-in the gym. Rigor training with Bud Harrelson

Ms. Borawski is out. If you have music on day 7, please divide your class among your teammates having specials today to maintain planning time. If you don't have a special on day 7, this doesn't apply. I am speaking with someone today who may be able to provide additional planning time.
Kendra and Kim will be out for the next two days. LTM's may meet as planned. I will provide data review as a part. Teachers can still use the data feedback strategy to determine action steps.
If you have not turned in lesson plans to the appropriate administrator, please do so today.

If you have something to share concerning PBIS, please tell your grade level rep before Wednesday.
Report cards go home Wednesday.

Monday, November 8 2010
Today is day 6 on the specials calendar.
After school tutoring
The school clocks may not be completely calibrated to reflect the end of daylight saving time, but they will be today.
Report cards look great. If you have not submitted your report cards for review, please do so as soon as possible.
Lesson plans for review today-K-2 to Cindy and 3-5 to Ron

Friday November 5, 2010
Today is day 5 on the specials calendar
Kindergarten LTM

Friday is picture day.
Homeroom teachers, please send Ron and Cindy report cards before Friday.
K-2 send to Cindy
3-5 send to Ron
Report cards must be reviewed before they are printed.

Starting next week, K-2 teachers and ESL teachers, please provide a copy of your lesson plans to Cindy and 3-5 Music, Art and PE provide a copy of your lesson plans to Ron. There is no specific rubric to be used or returned. You may send them via email or put a hard copy in our boxes. Plans are due Monday morning. Plans will be turned in every other week.

Thursday November 4 2010
Today is day 4 on the specials calender
Afterschool tutoring
second grade testing
First grade LTM
PBIS meeting this afternoon

Friday is picture day. A schedule was sent yesterday for homerooms. If there is a conflict with your lunch, please see Mrs. Snipes-otherwise, please plan to take pictures at the time listed.
Homeroom teachers, please send Ron and Cindy report cards before Friday.
K-2 send to Cindy
3-5 send to Ron
If your report cards have been checked by Ron already and in K-2 you are good.
Those who have requested a jump drive, please get it from Mrs. Sanchez.
Please save report cards to your H drive and backup your report cards on your jump drive.
If you did not request a jump drive, please make sure you back up your report cards some way.

Starting next week, K-2 teachers and ESL teachers, please provide a copy of your lesson plans to Cindy and 3-5 Music, Art and PE provide a copy of your lesson plans to Ron. There is no specific rubric to be used or returned. You may send them via email or put a hard copy in our boxes. Plans are due Monday morning. Plans will be turned in every other week.

We will send home info about the weekend reader club next week with the report cards.
Only about 120 students made AR goals this first quarter with some classes not having any students making their goal. Even though AR has been a part of our school for a long time, we don't want to get complacent in encouraging and providing opportunities for independent reading. I hope to meet with homeroom teachers individually over the course of the month to talk about the first quarter and going forward with success in this and other areas.

Wednesday November 3, 2010
Today is day 3 on the specials calendar.
CogAt second grade testing today-no third grade LTM. Second grade LTM may be cancelled as well-we will confirm this morning.
Friday is picture day. A schedule was sent yesterday for homerooms. If there is a conflict with your lunch, please see Mrs. Snipes-otherwise, please plan to take pictures at the time listed.
Homeroom teachers, please send Ron report cards before Friday. Those who have requested a jump drive, please get it from Mrs. Sanchez.
Please save report cards to your H drive and backup your report cards on your jump drive.
If you did not request a jump drive, please make sure you back up your report cards some way.

The New teacher evaluation system will be moving to an electronic system by the end of the year. I will provide training on this process some time in November. Since time is so limited, the date and time will be determined later. I will send a letter to teachers explaining the process but will host a training as well. More details to come.

Our payroll system is going electronic as well. All employees will be able to print check stubs, W-2's, W-4 (withholding info) as far back as 2006. I will also provide a training on this at a future staff meeting as well (November or early December) At the end of this school year, all check stubs will be electronically delivered (no more deposit stubs).

Tuesday November 2, 2010
Today is day 2 on the specials calendar.
No staff meeting today
4th grade LTM today.
Ron at principal's meeting and workshop today
Second grade testing tomorrow-Friday. Some assistants will be used to proctor which may interfere with LTM's. In those cases, the LTM will be canceled. Please see Kim Dooley to see if your LTM is canceled.
Friday is picture day.
Mrs. Snipes is working on the schedule. With testing and special assembly for first grade, some classes may have to have pictures during a portion of their specials. Mrs. Snipes will do her best to avoid but it may not be able to be helped in some cases. Our student body is so large, a small change can have a ripple effect.

Monday, November 1 2010
Today is DAY 1 on the specials calendar. We are starting a new rotation for specials. Please contact Ron if you don't have a new schedule.
After- school tutoring
fifth grade LTM.
Skate Night tonight
If you signed up to receive a jump drive, please see Ms. Sanchez who will let you sign for it.
STAFF MEETING-Tomorrow after school-location to be announced.
Please make sure report cards are turned in for review by this Friday. I have checked a few.
Mrs. Winn will provide attendance notices for those that need them this week as well. Report cards need to go home next Wednesday.
Grade chairs, please send Ron information regarding the two days of duty free lunch for homeroom teachers.
Congratulations to Mrs. Vaden, who was named Classified staff member of the quarter. She now has a parking space up front and will be highlighted on the website.

Thursday October 28, 2010
Today is day 3 on the specials calendar.
EOQ make up testing today.
After-school tutoring
Student council sponsored PBIS reward this afternoon
Thanks to everyone for your help and cooperation at yesterday's very different dismissal. Everyone went above and beyond the call of duty.
The school improvement plan was approved unanimously. Thank you for participating.
Classified staff may vote on the nominees for classified staff member of the quarter by the 2:30 today.
Please indicate your plans for tomorrow by signing up in the mail room. If you are taking AL, you must still call it in.
Tea time-If I make an announcement about "tea time", that just means everyone can leave early. That's our little secret!

Wednesday October 27 2010
Today is Day 2 on the specials calendar.
EOQ quarter testing finalizes today. Make up testing tomorrow

Please vote concerning the school improvement plan that was shared yesterday. Ballots will be in the mail room. Please place ballot in box on Sabina's desk.
Classified staff member of the quarter-any classified staff member can be nominated by anyone. Please send an email to Ron by the end of the day. Classified staff members will vote on nominees on Thursday. The winner will have use of a special parking spot for the second quarter and identified on the school website.

Please indicate your plans for Friday, October 29 by signing up in the mail room. If you plan to take annual leave, please call the system by Thursday.

Tuesday, October 26 2010

Today is day 1 on the specials calendar.

STAFF MEETING AFTER SCHOOL

EOQ testing continues-we will follow the same schedule as yesterday-Specials will resume after testing and teachers will be notified.

The sheet that will allow staff to indicate their plans for Friday is located just left of the sign in sheet by the phone in the mail room. Please do so by Thursday. October 28.

Thursday is Officer's Costner's last day at Gibson. He truly is a Gibson Grizzly at heart! He is such a great addition to our family. Please take a minute to thank him for the time he spent at Gibson.



Please give generously to support the United Way. We are 36% of our goal. We would love everyone to do something. Thank you.



Please plan to pay hospitality dues of $15 dollars as soon as possible. We have no other funds set aside for benevolence or kindness except what we give.

Monday, October 25th
Today is day 6 on the specials calendar.
After school tutoring
End of quarter testing for grades 3-5 starting around 9:00. Review the testing plan sent last week.
NO LTM's this week.
Some specials will be canceled until after quarter testing. Only specialists involved in EOQ testing need to cancel their classes until they finish testing. Homeroom teachers, please review the schedule. Even if your class isn't in 3-5, the specialist teaching your class, may be testing. We will not reschedule specials missed.
Staff meeting tomorrow for all staff-business of importance.
Please indicate your plans for Friday by signing up on the sheet in the staff mail room.
Please participate in the United Way fund drive. Every contribution makes a difference

Thursday October 21 2010
Today is day 4 on the specials calendar.
First grade LTM
Fifth grade planning half day
After-school tutoring
ESL family night-6-7:30 in cafeteria.

Please review EOQ testing plan sent yesterday. Due to EOQ testing, there will not be any LTM's next week.
Please make sure you call in for annual leave for Friday October 29th if you plan to take annual leave. I will post a sheet on Friday, October 22.

Wednesday October 20, 2010
Today day 3 on the specials calendar.
4th grade planning day.
No third grade LTM
Second grade LTM
No EC classes today.

Monday, October 18, 2010
Today is day 1 on the specials calendar.
No fifth grade LTM today.
Den dollar shopping begins today-Kindergarten
After-school tutoring
STAFF MEETING TOMORROW-ALL STAFF
RESCHEDULED STAFF MEETING FOR TUESDAY OCTOBER 26-ALL STAFF

We will begin our Annual United Way pledge drive in a few days. As a staff we have always been generous, please remember that many times our students and families directly benefit from United Way services.

EC updates-I would like to remind everyone of a few expectations for teacher participation with exceptional education students. These expectations are a matter of professional accountability and all us need to be aware of our responsibilities.
Homeroom regular education teachers are expected to attend IEP meetings held for any students in their class. No other meeting should take precedence. By law 10 day notice is given to parents about meetings and EC staff have assured me that teachers get the same type of advance notice. When you are contacted by EC staff about an IEP meeting, put it on your calendar. The only reason a homeroom teacher should have for not attending an IEP meeting should be their absence from school.
If for some reason, a teacher cannot attend an IEP meeting, I expect the teacher to find a suitable colleague to replace them.
Also please bring any data asked for to IEP meetings. Remember, IEP's are a team process-and homeroom teachers provide valuable information to help the IEP determine the best decision for each child.

Friday October 15 2010
Today is day 6 on the specials calendar.
NO LTM today.

Thursday October 14 2010

Today is day 5 on the specials calendar.
Kindergarten planning day
After-school tutoring-Math
Prinicpal's meeting-Ron away in the morning

The PTA fundraiser went home yesterday. We will show the video later to encourage families to participate. Remember, there is a special incentive for the teacher of the class with the highest sales.

Special announcement-there will be a baby shower for Nurse Key next Wednesday. Please see the announcement in the mailroom.
Third-fifth grade planning day next week. Please refer to email sent yesterday for clarification.

Wednesday October 13, 2010

Today is day 4 on the specials calendar.
Third grade LTM
Second grade planning half day-No LTM coverage needed

Finances and field trips-Please turn in field trip money daily by placing it in the lock box outside Mrs. Sawyer's office. Do not put it in any file cabinets or hand it to her personally. We will retrieve it daily from the lockbox. Place the money in an envelope with the cover sheet indicating teacher name, field trip and total in the envelope. Also maintain a cash sheet listed each child and the amount they have paid towards the trip. Maintain this sheet in lieu of handing out receiets for amounts less than twenty dollars.

This morning, we will practice with students from several buses in order to improve bus behavior and control. Please wait until those students are called.

PTA fundraiser packets go home today. Along with the prizes for students, there is a special incentive for teachers. The teacher of the classroom with the highest sales will be able to go into the money vault and "snatch and keep" as much money as they can in a certain time limit!
We will show a motivational video about our fundraiser at the end of the day.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Today is day 3 on the specials calendar.

4th grade LTM

First grade half day planning day-Please make sure you have signed up.

McDonald's Mcteacher night-Please sign up and spend a fwe minutes at the McDonald's on University parkway to meet andf greet students.

PTA board meeting-6pm.

STAFF MEETING CANCELLED TODAY. RESCHDEULED FOR TUESDAY OCTOBER 26



In light of the cancelled meeting, Let me share some things electronically

Finances and field trips-Please turn in field trip money daily by placing it in the lock box outside Mrs. Sawyer's office. Do not put it in any file cabinets or hand it to her personally. We will retrieve it daily from the lockbox. Place the money in an envelope with the cover sheet indicating teacher name, field trip and total in the envelope. Also maintain a cash sheet listed each child and the amount they have paid towards the trip. Maintain this sheet in lieu of handing out receiets for amounts less than twenty dollars.

I will send an attachment on Tuesday with the proper forms ands place copies in mailboxes. Make as many as you need.

Monday, October 11, 2010
Today is day 2 on the specials calendar
5th grade LTM
ESL principal meeting-Ron away right after school
Tutoring starts today in grades 3-5. Please cross check the students who should be in tutoring and confirm they should be staying. Mrs. Wiley is working with Mrs. Stewart to coordinate this process. Either person should be bale to confirm a student's participation.
Staff meeting after school tomorrow for all staff.
Teachers in grades PK-2 need to sign up for planning days BEFORE your planning day and give the registration to Mrs. Sawyer.
Other news/reminders:
McTeacher night at McDonald's on University tomorrow night-please sign and plan to visit for a few minutes.
On weeks that grade levels have planning half-days, No LTM for that grade for that week. LTM will be held on an abbreviated version during planning days.
Our PTA fundraiser will start this Wednesday with info packets going home. We have not done a lot to prep you because everything is the same (company and protocols). The fundraiser will run through the month of October. Instead of an assembly or two (considering our size), we will show a video that explains the program-time TBA.
Our annual United Way fundraiser will start in a few days. The United Way directly impacts many of our families. Gibson staff members have always been generous-please help in continuing that tradition of giving.
PBS corner-
Our school was designated as a Green Ribbon school for PBIS annual recognition. There will be a statewide recognition of this award at a later time-we will keep you informed. Congratulations for all you do.
The PBIS committee is working to clarify some processes and forms for teachers to help with communication and administrative response. I share an expectation that needs to be in place immediately:
Please do not wait until the third classroom discipline form is filled and the corresponding D-1 is written before making sure the parent is contacted. I have received more than one or two completed discipline forms which indicated no previous contact with parent (either by signature on the form or documentation on the phone log.) At the very least, after the second form(incident on the same form) is written on a child, it should be sent home for signature or a phone call should be made. If the form does not come back or if it comes back unsigned- a phone call must be made-please engage the HS coordinator for help. The PBIS committee is editing any charts to reflect a similar change and will communicate it at a future staff meeting.

Friday, October 8, 2010


Today is day 1 on the specials calendar.
Kindergarten LTM


Tutoring will start Monday-please send any notices from parents to Mrs. Stewart. There will be a meeting for all staff on Tuesday, October 12. Very important information will be shared. This meeting will be held in place of the meeting that was cancelled this past Tuesday.

Prek-K, Kindergarten, First and second grade teachers please sign up for your planning half day next week. All planning days will take place in the afternoon. No LTM for K, 1 or 2 next week. There will be an abbreviated LTM during the planning day. 3-5 will have LTM's next week as scheduled.Teachers, please sign-up for McDonald's night next Tuesday from 5-7 pm.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Today is day 6 on the specials calendar
First grade LTM.
Kindergarten Fire truck presentation-10:15
Tutoring meeting-after school
New lunch schedule information-last night-all staff received a new schedule that identified new serving line assignments. No time changes-just which line your class should go through.
Tutoring will start Monday-please send any notices from parents to Mrs. Stewart.
There will be a meeting for all staff on Tuesday, October 12. very important information will be shared. This meeting will be held in place of the meeting that was cancelled this past Tuesday.

Prek-K, Kindergarten, First and second grade teachers please sign up for your planning half day next week. All planning days will take place in the afternoon. No LTM for K, 1 or 2 next week. There will be an abbreviated LTM during the planning day. 3-5 will have LTM's next week as scheduled.

Teachers, please sign-up for McDonald's night next Tuesday from 5-7 pm.

Wednesday October 6, 2010
Today is day 5 on the specialsd calendar.
3rd and 2nd grade LTM today.

Please sign up for McTeacher's night on October 12. It is always increases turnout when staff participates in these events.
The staff meeting on October 12 is for all staff.
We will soon inform staff about our annual United Way campaign. Each year, we do really well meeting our goals. Please remember to give generously because many of our students are impacted by the services offered by United Way.
Please sign up on-line for planning days next week in grades Pk-2nd. No LTM meetings for K, 1 and 2 teachers next week. an abbreviated LTM will be held on your planning day.

Please let PBIS rep know of any concerns you may have before the meeting on Thursday.

Tuesday October 5 2010
Today is day 4 on the specials calendar
Ron at Principals' meeting
Imagine It demonstration lessons today. Refer to Mrs. Dooley's schedule for lesson times and coverage responsibilities.
NO staff meeting today
Mcteacher's night at MacDonald's on October 12. Please sign up to work an hour that evening. The sign up sheet is in the mailroom.
Classroom teachers need to sign up on line for the 1st quarter planning days. prek-K, first and second grade planning days are next week and third-fifth grade planning days are the following week.

Monday October 4 2010
Today is day 3 on the specials calendar
5th grade LTM
SIT meeting
Flex benefits representative will be on campus for the last day.
NO STAFF MEETING TOMORROW-Imagine it! demonstration lessons through out the day. See schedule by Mrs. Dooley to address coverage.
New lunch seating starts today. You received a new lunch schedule via email Friday and one is posted in the mail room. Times do not change, just where your class sits.

Friday, October 1, 2010
Today is day 2 on the specials calendar.
Kindergarten LTM.
Health screening for 1st, 4th and 5th grades-see schedule provided by Mrs. Stewart.
SIT meeting Monday afternoon afterschool.
Schedule changes-
No staff meeting on Tuesday. Imagine It consultant will be on campus. Kendra and Kim have sent details. 4th grade LTM should still take place.

Title 1 parent meeting for October 7 to be rescheduled.
Starting Monday, Ms. Borawski's music classes will be held on the stage.

Thursday September 30 2010
Today is day 1 on the specials calendar.
1st grade LTM today
Flex benefits representative in conference room today and Friday. The schedule is posted. If you did not get a slot, he will be back Monday. Sign up in the mailroom.
Ron at meeting 9-11:00
3-5 Curriculum Night tonight from 6-7. Third grade will be using the media center. Childcare will be provoded by the YMCA in the gym.

Wednesday, September 29 2010
Today is day 6 on the specials calendar
No LTM today for 3rd or 2nd grade today. Teachers and assistants maintain regular schedule.
Third grade shopping in the Grizzly den.
3-5 Curriculum night-6-7pm-Thursday, September 30. Please send Ron a copy of your agenda and any handouts you may have.

Upcoming meetings-
SIT meeting on Monday, October 4th
No staff meeting on October 5th

If you missed yesterday's meeting about flex benefits, please see Ron for a brochure and the sign up sheet. The representative will be on campus Thursday and Friday.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Today is day 5 on the specials calendar
No LTM's today
Teachers and assistants maintain regular schedule.
Second grade Gibson Grizzly den shopping
K-2 teachers website training-for those who need a refresher or do not have a website up.
ALL STAFF MEETING TODAY-FLEX BENEFIT PRESENTATION

NO STAFF MEETING NEXT TUESDAY OCTOBER 5.
Music classes will be held on the stage starting October 4th.
Mid term reports go home tomorrow.

Tonight the WSFCS school board will recognize schools in the state testing program. Gibson will be recognized for making AYP. Please check out the board meeting tonight at 6pm.

Monday September 27 2010

Today is day 4 on the specials calendar

5th grade LTM

Kindergarten Grizzly shopping day.

Upcoming Events

Tuesday-K-2 schoolwires training 7:30 for any K-2 teacher who did not have the training or who do not have website up

Tuesday-all staff members attend Flex benefits meeting-after school

3rd-5th curriculum night is from 6-7, not 7:30. Please make sure you let your parents know that.

Please join me in welcoming two new members to our staff:
Alysia Himbry will be teaching in our new Kindergarten class. Mrs. Ellen Ahearn will be the assistant working with her. The new K class will be located in the music room. The music room will be relocated to the stage. The new class and new music location will be effective Monday, October 4. Ms. Himbry will start Monday, September 27 and Mrs. Ahearn will start Thursday, September 30. We will do more formal introductions at our October 5th staff meeting.

Friday, September 24, 2010
Today is day 3 on the specials calendar
Thank you to all of the staff members who presented or assisted at last night's curriculum night. Last night's overall attendance was better than it has been in recent memory. Please turn in a copy of your attendance if you kept it.
Gibson grizzly shopping den starts today with first grade. The Grizzly den has been relocated to the back door of the main office area. Mrs. Felder's new office is now in the former space for the Grizzly den. The schedule continues as follows:
Monday-Prek, Kindergarten
Tuesday-second
Wednesday-third
Thursday-fourth
Friday-fifth
Upcoming events-
Tuesday-all staff meeting-Flex benefits presentation
Schoolw
Wednesday-mid-term reports go home
Thursday-3-5 curriculum night-6:00-7:00

Wednesday September 22, 2010
Today is day 1 on the specials calendar.
NO LTM for 2nd or 3rd grade today.
Great job on Fire drill yesterday.
K-2 Grade levels or classroom teachers, please turn in your agenda for Thursday's curriculum night.

Tuesday September 21, 2010


Today is day 6 on the specials calendar.
4th grade LTM
WS Little symphony for 4th and 5th grade in the gym.
Fire Drill today beween 1:50 and 2:00
STAFF MEETING after school-SIOP training for all certified staff.
Thanks to Mrs Motsinger for sponsoring this month's raffle. Thanks to 4th grade for signing up to sponsor a raffle. We woud really like other groups or teams to help out.
Gibon den store shopping starts this Friday. Thanks to grade chairs for sending youre schedule. If I don't have it, please send Tuesday.

K-2 curriculum night-Thursday from 6-7:30. Please send a copy o your agenda/handout to Ron. Please take attendance at curriculum. Snacks will be served and childcare provided. Please let Ron know if you would like to help supervise childcare for this Thursday or next Thursday.

Great job to Mrs. Snipes and her transporation team and all staff. Evn with seeral new bus numbers started yesterday, the number of students missing the bus was at a minimum.

Monday, September 20, 2010
Today is day 5 on the specials calendar
5th grade LTM
LTM's will meet in 610 again
Equity+ principal's meeting-Ron away at noon
WFU Basketball player Reading contest kickoff-4th grade at 10:00
PBIS raffle
K-2 curriculum Night-September 23-6-7:30- grade levels send a copy of your agenda/handouts to principal.
You may want to hold group sessions in the classrooms with the media setups.
Specialists and other certified staff who are not homeroom teachers need to choose which curriculum night they will attend an let me know via email If you deliver a curiculum of any type you should plan to attend one of those nights. (Mr. Torian, excluded).
Friday, September 24-Gibson school store shopping starts-If your grade level has not submitted your shopping schedule, please do so immediately.
PBIS corner-
PBIS committee met-here is a synopsis of the minutes:

• Food may be brought out of the classrooms under these conditions only:
• Liquids, dairy or anything that can spoil can be brought out
• whole fruit is OK
• food brought out for snack must be eaten or discarded, not taken home.
• Chips, and other snack foos may not be taken out of the cafeteria
• K/1 teachers make sure students go to bathroom before specials.
• Folders must go to specials even if a form has not been started. Blank forms should be in the folder for specials teacher just in case.
• Please remember hallway protocols for dismissal-NO double lines. Teachers should not have older classes to walk parallel with younger classes.
• Grizzlly Den to be relocated to the rear office entrance.

Friday, September 17, 2010
Today is day 4 on the specials calendar
Kindergarten LTM
Dress up as a TV character day
PDP due to administrator unless you were told otherwise personally.
Upcomin events-
Monday, September 20-
WFU Basketball player Reading contest kickoff-4th grade at 10:00
PBIS raffle
Tuesday September 21-
WS Little Symphony performance-4th and 5th grade-10:15
Thursday, September 23-
K-2 curriculum Night-6-7:30-I need grade levels to send a copy of your agenda/handouts for that night to the office. Based on past experience-you should make enough for 50% of your class or grade level. It's not about how many sheets you give out but what you share. If your grade level wants to use a common space like the gym or media center, let me know ASAP-first come first serve. You may want to hold group sessions in the classrooms with the media setups.
Specialists and other certified staff who are not homeroom teachers need to choose which curriculum night they will attend an let me know via email If you deliver a curiculum of any type you should plan to attend one of those nights. (Mr. Torian, excluded).

Friday, September 24-Gibson school store shopping starts-If your grade level has not submitted your shopping schedule, please do so immediately.

PBIS updates forthcoming

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Today is day 2 on the specials calendar.

3rd grade LTM
2nd grade LTM

Please remember-laminator is down-repair order has been called in.
Use the high volume copiers until further notice.
If you have notices from parents who wished their child excluded from the President's speech yesterday, please send them to the office.

Please send as many field trip requests as possible to Ron before the 30th in order to arrange for buses.

PTA board met last night. The fall fundraiser will kick off on October 13. More info to come.
Please remember to join the PTA and pay hospitality dues of 15 dollars.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Today is day 1 on the specials calendar
Third grade puppet show-schedule has been provided-location-gym
4th grade LTM
Cub scout night
PTA board meeting
Staff meeting after-school. All staff for beginning then Bud Harrelson will discuss rigor with certified staff.

President Obama will deliver a speech to all students today starting at 1:00. Students who return an opt-out form or parents who call and don't want their students to listen will be excluded. Otherwise all staff need to show this speech to students. The cafeteria TV will be turned to CNN (channel 25 on your TV's) and students will be expected to listen quietly.

We have a few overhead projectors and you do not have an overhead at all, please contact Ron.

Monday, September 13, 2010

Today is day 6 on the specials calendar.
K-1 teachers and specialists received schedule about their "no special" day. This schedule starts on Tuesday, the next day one. No other grade level is affected this quarter.

7:30-NCWISE gradebook training-3-5 grades.-this morning

We will hold 3-5 graders in gym if necessary.

SIT meeting after-school

5th grade LTM. Due to some work in the second grade Pod, room 706 may be used for LTM meetings. Please adjust accordingly.

STAFF meeting-tomorrow for certified staff. Rigor trainig with BUD Harrelson.

This week is School spirit week-feel free to participate. I don't have any cute PJ's but I do have some hats.

Friday September 10, 2010

Today is day 5 on the specials calendar

Kindergarten LTM
Mandatory third-fifth grade Electronic gradebook training-7:30 Monday September 13-sign up on line.
SIT meeting after school-Monday, September 13
Hospitality dues-15 dollars-please pay as soon as possible to help with planned activities.
The fire marshal's inspection went well this week. We had very few violations. Mrs. Stewart will address specific concerns/issues.

Third grade puppet show on Tuesday, September 14th

STAFF MEETING-Tuesday, September 14. We will discuss Rigor with Bud Harrelson.

Please sign up to sponsor a school-wide PBIS raffle. Everyone's help matters.
Imagine IT ! materials seem to come in daily. The media staff is working hard to get materials to teachers.

Thursday, September 9, 2010


Today is day 4 on the specials calendar.

First grade LTM

Mandatory gradebook training for 3-5 teachers-next Monday 7:30 in lab. For most it will be a quick refresher. Sign up on-line : "NCWISE Elementary gradebook setup"-location-Gibson.

Gibson Grizzly den shopping date.September 24-October 1

September 24-first grade

September 27-Pre-K-Kindergarten

September 28-second grade

September 29-third grade

September 30-fourth grade

October 1-fifth grade

Certified teachers need to send their PDP to their assigned evaluator by September 17. Teachers who will have the sumative evaluation will receive information concerning their first evaluation

Wednesday, September 8, 2010


Today is day 3 on the specials calendar.
2nd and 3rd grade LTM today


Teacher evaluation instrument training after-school for new to Gibson teaching staff, optional for other teachers. Teachers will also be assigned mentors at this meeting.
Even if you do not attend the training , all teachers need to email copies of your PDP to your assigned administrator by September 17. All certified teachers need to complete PDP if you are not on the summative cycle this year. Please complete the self assessment(which you do not turn or share) to complete your PDP.

Mandatory gradebook training for 3-5 teachers-next Monday 7:30 in lab. For most it will be a quick refresher. Sign up on-line : "NCWISE Elementary gradebook setup"-location-Gibson.
PBIS CORNER
Please consider signing up to sponsor a PBIS raffle. It could be a grade level, group of staff, you may have something really neat to donate for a raffle. Any help will be appreciated.
Also not discussed yesterday was the responsibility homerooms have for the first Gibson Grizzly den shopping date.
September 24-October 1
September 24-first grade
September 27-Pre-K-Kindergarten
September 28-second grade
September 29-third grade
September 30-fourth grade
October 1-fifth grade

Grade levels will determine the shopping times for your grade level on your assigned day. You best know your schedule and what would work best. I will give grade chairs the times on those days volunteers will be helping. If we can't get volunteers, teachers and assistants will be responsible for manning the store. Please let know or feel free to contact directly any parent or volunteer you think who may be available to help. I will let grade chairs know we this info is needed.

Tuesday September 7, 2010

Today is day 2 on the specials calendar
Kim Dooley out this week
Principal meeting this morning-Ron out until noon or so
Staff meeting after school. Bring PBIS handbook and staff handbook. Location TBA
If you didn't read the blog on Friday, please read the poem posted on Friday.

We are in the process of scheduling technology workshops for this year, some workshops will be optional and some mandatory, but all will be helpful.
Please review update for dates and times-
Already scheduled-mandatory gradebook training for 3-5 teachers-next Monday 7:30 in lab. For most it will be a quick refresher. Sign up on-line : "NCWISE Elementary gradebook setup"-location-Gibson.
Teachers also sign up for SIOP training on line-location-Gibson. We will have these meetings the third Tuesday of each month. It was written up for credit. Other trainings will be made available as well.
The dates for the PBIS school store have been set. Starting September 24-October 1. Grade levels will be assigned a day and be asked to determine a block of time for each class to shop within a certain time period. More info to come at the staff meeting. We will aslo conduct the first raffle for the year as well.

Homeroom teachers, you should have a short article about homework in your mailboxes this morning. Please read before the meeting if you get a chance. At the very least bring the article to the meeting.

Friday September 3, 2010

Today is day 1 on the specials calendar

Kindergarten LTM today.

No school Monday for Labor Day Holiday. Enjoy your long weekend.
Staff meeting-Tuesday right after school.
Friday air quality may be Code Orange-Please continue to be cautious as relates to outdoor activity.
Please plan to bring your staff handbook and PBIS handbook to the staff meeting. We will discuss both on Tuesday.
A special thanks to : Our ESL team, Mr. Leak, our custodial staff, our CC's and the media staff for working to get as much of the Reading series catalogued as quickly as possible so the materials can be distributed. I have contacted the Instructional Services division to get direction on when to start. We definitely want to start as school.

I would like to share a poem given to me by Andrea Taylor, our social worker. You will meet her on Tuesday. Enjoy...

"The Other Side of the Desk"
Have you ever thought just a wee little bit,
Of how it would seem to be a misfit,
And how you would feel if YOU had to sit ,
On the other side of the desk?
Have you ever looked a the man who seemed a bum,
As he sat before you, nervous...dumb...
And thought of the courage to took to come,
To the other side of the desk?
Have you thought to yourself of his dreams that went astray,
Of the hard, real fact of his every day,
Of the things in his life that make him stay,
On the other side of the desk?
Have you ever thought to yourself, "It could be I",
If the good things of life had passed me by,
And maybe I'd bluster and maybe I'd lie,
From the other side of the desk?
Did you make him feel he was full of greed,
Make him ashamed of his race or creed,
Or did you reach out to him in his need,
To the other side of the desk?
May God give us wisdom and lots of it,
And much compassion and plenty of grit,
So that we may be kinder to those who sit ,
On the other side of the desk.
-Anonymous

Thursday September 2, 2010
Today is day 6 on the specials calendar
First grade LTM today
Second grade LTM was yesterday.
Our visitors were impressed with the building despite the fact they didn't stay very long. Good job everyone.
Imagine It! materials are in the building. If you have seen the three pallets in the lobby you may guess it will be quite an undertaking to get everything catalogued. The goal is to have teacher manuals distributed Friday for the weekend. We will get other materials out as soon as possible thereafter. We will contact instructional services about a recommended start date since the materials are just getting in. We would like to start as a school, everybody on the same page.
It seems my requests for self-control regarding the supply room are not getting through. Folks are still taking boxes of materials that can't possibly be used at this time. I will address this more at the faculty meeting-but until then, please practice self-restraint.

I will be giving homeroom teachers an article about homework to read. We will discuss it at Tuesday's meeting. It is a very good article.
You each received your PBIS handbook today. Please put it with your staff handbook and bring both to the meeting on Tuesday.
We will be distributing two handbooks for parents in the next few days that will go home in our first Wednesday packet to be sent home on September 8. One handbook is the WSFCS student handbook. One for each child was not printed but we were sent the names of the youngest child in a particular family. Those books will be labeled and given to you to send home. If you don't get enough WSFCS handbooks for each student in your class, that's the reason. Each student will receive a Gibson Elementary student handbook. We do have English and Spanish versions. We have a list, but if you don't get enough for the Spanish speaking families in your class, let us know. Both books need to go home next Wednesday.

September 1, 2010
Today is day 5 on the specials calendar.
Third and fifth grade LTM's today.

We will have guests in the building. School Social workers will receive a donation fom the Richard Burr campaign of school supplies. They have asked to have the presentation at Gibson. Dr. Martin, members of Sen. Burr's office and others will be on campus. Don't be surprised if a tour is given and visitors come around. I am not sure, just don't be surprised.

We will check the temperature by the NWS around noon. If there is a concern aout the temperature, we will make an anouncement.

Please make sure you place instructional materials log in the notebook in the supply room. Write down supplies that you get. I ask you again not to hoard or get mor than you need now. We will have another supply order in December and not before. Be considerate. The supply room is open from 7:30-9:00 each day and 3:00-4:00 each afternoon.

Our first afternoon staff meeting will be September 7. We will have meetings on the first, second and third Tuesday of each month. Additional meetings may be called but I will try to keep them on Tuesday.

Homeroom teachers, if you need to make adjustments to your schedule, please sendme an email with the proposed changes before anything is done. Thak you to everyone who has put something outsid your classroom indicating where the class is. Som of the charts are creativ and some are simple but functional. All are great, but we do not have 100% participation yet. If you have not done so, please put a chart outside your room by tomorrow.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Today is day 4 on the specials calendar

4th grade learning team meeting today

Fire drill today. Make sure you take your roster with you.

Temps are predicted to get well above 90 today. Going outside as long a the temp is under 90 is fine. We will check the NWS to determine temps. We will make an announcement if necessary.Going outside around or after 1:00 or 1:30 should ruled out anyway since that is the hottest part of the day.
Great job to Ms. Bowman and her "crew". They did a great job performing the Gibson Pride rap.
One of Mrs. Crompton's K students came to my office and sang a few bars-talk about making an impression! Great work to everyone involved and the PBIS committee.

Please continue to pass out den dollars-teachers should have received copies of the classroom discipline forms yesterday. Please remember to send any classroom discipline forms students have received to specials as well.

Teachers and staff, please be aware that the school system Interoffice mail runs every other day this year. Mail can be sent an received on Monday, Wednesdy and Friday this week an Tuesday and Thursday next week and alternating thereafer.

Monday August 30, 2010

Today is day 3 on the specials calendar
All specials up and running
5th grade learning team meeting today
PBIS student kickoff-K-2 at 9:00-9:45 instead of 9:30-10:15
3-5 at 10:00-10:45 instead of 10:30-11:15



Weather alert-Please remember that when the weather is predicted to be 90 degrees or above outside recess is not allowed. The weather this week is predicted to be in the low 90's please do not take students outside for recess.
Fire drill tomorrow, please review fire drill procedures and rules with students. If you do not have a fire drill map/emergency map posted, please contact Ron.


Please contact Mrs. Stewart if you have textbook needs. She will be at Oldtown the beginning of the week-go ahead and email her and she will get instructions to us to get books to you. Planners have been ordered and we did get a few extra for those who did not sign up.
Administrators will review lesson plans this week. We have not developed a rubric. We will just look at them as we do walkthroughs. We will develop a rubric and share in September. Cindy will look at K-2 and I will look at 3-5

Friday August 27, 2010
Today is day 2 on the specials calendar. Computer will start today as well.
Today is Kindergarten staggered start day B
Yesterday's afternoon dismissal and transportation process was much, much better. Thanks to everyone for your hard work by "making a list and checking it twice" so to speak. The number of frantic calls dropped 90% or better.
Friday is Spirit day at Gibson. Staff may wear Gibson shirts, jeans, and "dress down" neatly, please:-).
We seem to be having problems with our clocks for the bogen system (TV clocks) ; please make sure you are aware of any adjustments announced over the intercom.

We will share various safety protocols with teachers as the year progresses but one teachers can implement now would be good and I will back you up and be the heavy if need be. Sometimes, relatives (aunts, uncles, cousin, grandparents) and friends ( not custodial parents, guardians or custodial grandparents) may want to come and speak to visit or talk with a student. Ask if there is a note from the parent allowing this; if there is written or verbal permission, no problem. If there isn't-send them to me and I will get permission or deny access. I will get something out in writing to don't try to do anything now, just continue to be mindful.
Mrs. Beverly Davis (formerly Beverly Jones) is in Forsyth hospital. She is recuperating from a fractured foot and a couple of other challenges. I will email contact info.
PBIS corner
We will have a student PBS kickoff assembly on Monday. We will have two assemblies K-2 and 3-5. Times to be announced.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Today is day 1 on the specials calendar. All specials except computer start today.

First grade learning team meeting today.

Kindergarten "A" day
Yesterday was great! Everyone worked together and we had a great day. Students were excited and tired! (perfect). I really appreciate the flexibility and organization each of you displayed. Start strong and end strong! Transportation "hiccups" were not bad considering we have almsot 800 kids to get home. We are asking (expecting) classroom teachers to stay after until we give the "all clear" announcement about buses. Teacher assistants will not be required to stay beyond their 8 hour day. We should be able to do so in a reasonable amount of time.

We did get some help for the custodial staff so you won't need to send your trash out. Please remember to have students put chairs up and pick up paper off the floor.

We may still enroll students today-please let Ron know about desks needed. The planners have been ordered. If you wanted to get planners and didn't put your name on the list, we ordered some extra.

Reminders-Student PBIS assembly-Monday-time TBA

Fire drill-Tuesday.

Certified teachers will receive an email today with attachments for the teacher evaluation processs, an evaluation schedule and self assessment form. You will be contacted by an administrator if you are scheduled to have the summative evaluation this year. Teachers who are only doing the IGP will be given a deadline to turn it in. There will be a orientation meeting on Wednesday September 8 for all certified staff new to Gibson to review the process. Any other teachers or certified staff are welcomed to attend as well.

PBIS corner-Way to give out those den dollars. If you did not give out at least 5-10 yesterday, make that a personal goal for today. Please continue to review PBIS values and expectations. I will send an email with some of the lesson plans and other useful info. Let's focus on cafeteria expectations especially. Thank you for remembering to sit with your students. Please do so at least through September 3. If the students can model and really use the right voice volume, give them and yourself a little space.

Wednesday August 25, 2010
Today is the first day of school for students. Please remember that you may receive students this morning. We will keep administration informed about our enrollment numbers and allow the appropriate adjustments to be made at the right level at the right time.
We will have many parents to bring students to school today. Please don't worry about tardy students for the next few days. Remember to follow Mrs. Winn's directions for NCWISE.
Make sure you know about how students get home. Contact the office by noon if you are not sure and you or your assistant cannot contact parents. I am asking homeroom teachers to stay at least 15-20 minutes extra to make sure afternoon transportation is as mistake free as possible. Let's try to have zero "glitches".
No Computer classes until Friday. Mr. Torian is still deploying technology.
We are working to get textbooks and other materials out as soon as possible. Please be patient.
We are going to make sure copying access codes are accurate. The supply room will be open until 9:00 each day and opened after school.
Mrs Davis(Jones) will be out for the next two weeks. Mrs. Edwards will be subbing for her during that time.
Mr. Cheek will be out due to an injury until September 8. Since we will be short handed, we have to make adjustments. We hope to get some help but in the meantime-plan B: At the very end of the day, the custodians will place large barrels at the end of the halls, please allow a student to bring and empty it. Not the choice of action, but three custodians for a building our size is difficult at best. One custodian leaves at 2:30 also. Remember let's work together.

PBIS corner
Today is the day to start passng out those den dollars. Every staff member should make a personal goal to give out 5-10 today. Model, model, model. PBIS staff handbooks should be back today or tomorrow. We also will show the PBIS video today (hopefully).

Have a great day!

Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Open house last night was a great success! We had plenty of parent participation and everyone seemed to be excited about the start of a new school year. Hats off to everyone for a job well done!
Speaking of great turnout, we had several parents coming to register last night so we will be adding to /changing your rolls. As I have said earlier, don't be tied to certain numbers as caps for your class. We are tied in to the number of classrooms we have now for the first 10 days. I can almost guarantee many of you will have more than preferred cap (if you don't already) of students in your class. Please remember to welcome every child and just teach who shows up. I will handle maintaining class size. If we gain any sections, I will make the appropriate modifications. Don't worry about it.
Reminders-DIBELS refresher-all K-2 teachers-9:00 media ctr
DIBELS training for new staff to K-2, ESL guidance, admin.-afterwards in media ctr
SIOP training for teacher assistants-9:00 art room

Specials will start Thursday as day 1-except computer. Computer will start with day 2 on Friday. Mr. Torian is still deploying computers and has a meeting on Tuesday.
Please turn in copies of who attended your open house in my mailbox. I want to start gathering data on parent participation.

Also, don't forget to post a "where we are" chart outside your do letting other know where your class is-I have seen several posted but not by all. Let's have 100% by Wednesday. To get ideas, just take a walk around. Specialists need to post schedule and support services need to post schedule and who you are serving.

PBS corner
You will receive the PBIS handbook in the next few days. I will send attachments for the students/staff expectations for you to have. These documents can also be found on the "s" drive . I will send detailed directions later

One expectation we want to start off the bat is the use of voice volume by students and staff. Please model voice volume zero for students by your own actions and behavior. Use voice volume 1 only when necessary. Our students were regularly commended for hallway behavior by visitors and parents-let's start out the right way.

August 23, 2010

Welcome back and we're off to a great start.

By now many of us have begun the difficult but rewarding task of envisioning a great new year for our school and students. Rooms are sparking, floors are shiny and desks are neatly lined up and ready to go. Everywhere I look, I get the message. "we are ready, we are excited". That exactly the message we want to extend to our students and families each day. Every interaction and word should say "I am glad you are here and I believe you will succeed." This year won't be without it's challenges; new curriculums, new staff, new programs. But these changes represent just that-challenges or better yet, opportunities. We don't see a problem, just an opportunity. In spite of any financial, political or even administrative "stuff", we will always remember to keep "the main thing the main thing."
Reminders:
Monday August 23
Staff workday-12:00-7:30
Open house 5:30-7:30
Tuesday August 24
DIBELS refresher-9:00
DIBELS training-immediately afterwards
Wednesday August 25
First student day

Wednesday, June 9 2010
Today is day 4 on the specials calendar
Fifth grade awards day starting at 9:00
Students will come to classrooms at 7:50. Teachers need to be in class to receive students at that time. Specials will be canceled during the program.
We will notify teachers when specials will resume.
I am asking teachers to collect classroom discipline forms given to students and place in a box in main office. Rubber band or clip together. We are saving this documentation for PBIS

Tuesday, June 8 2010
Today is day 3 on the specials calendar
K-4 Awards day throughout the morning-morning specials canceled.
Computer class with Mr. Torian canceled for the week. He has to complete technology inventory. You may take your class to the lab if you'd like. Teachers will be responsible for the classes

Monday June 7, 2010
Today is day 2 on the specials calendar
Volunteer breakfast this morning
PBIS basketball game starting around 9:00. We will call for students.
PBIS Wii tournament
Music, Spanish, Media held today as normal. Art held after the basketball game. K-1 teachers may allow assistants to provide some planning time. Those specials canceled this morning.
As you are completing end of year paperwork, please make sure label report card envelope with homeroom teacher names and provide a list indicating whether report cards are mailed or to be picked up.

Friday June 4, 2010
Today is day 1 on the specials calendar.
EOG math retesting ends today
Hispanic music fest today starting at 1:00
third grade classes -1:00-1:30 (specialists need to monitor students)
fifth grade 1:30-2:00
fourth grade-2:00-2:30
The music fest will be broadcast on TV.
Fifth grade awards day rehearsal in gym from 11-12:10
The last week of school will be full of activities and combined with the closing school activities, this could be a stressful time for kids and adults. I would everybody to take a breath if you feel anxious, angry or stressed. No matter what deadline is missed or whatever book is lost or work not completed, it will be OK. If everything isn't done just right, so be it. Five to eleven year old kids will make mistakes, just like we do. The kids will look to you to have a pleasant and positive end to the school year. You only get one chance to make a memory about the end of school.

Thursday June 3 2010
Today is day 6 on the specials calendar.
All specials held except PE due to Mrs. Williams administering retest.
EOG math retest today. No outside play until it is announced.
An email was sent yesterday concerning the schedule for Hispanic music festival and other events. Please check email today for additional information.
Please return any materials borrowed from the Resource room ASAP so everything can be boxed up for the summer. Please turn in any professional development books checked out on next Friday.
Thank you to all who participated in new website training over the last two days. The presenter will be back one day for a help session. Mr. Torian will let us know when.

Tuesday June 1 2010
Today is day 4 on the specials calendar.
EOG retest- 5th grade Science today
Ron at Principal's meeting this morning.
K-2 enrichment cancelled before 11:30.
New Web site training-K-2 teachers and specialists.
Congratulations to Mrs. Charpentier and her husband and let's all welcome Emily Ruth.
Tomorrow for 3-5 teachers and support staff. Please contact an administrator if you need to attend on a different day

Friday May 28, 2010
Today is day 3 on the specials calendar.
EOG remediation continues today. EOG testing starts Tuesday with 5th grade science.
Please enjoy your Memorial day weekend.

Tuesday May 25, 2010
Today is day 6 on the specials calendar.
Thanks to Mrs. Bland and Mrs. McCotter for a great career day yesterday. Everyone had a great time and the students were motivated to create a great future for themselves.
Remediation in grades 3-5 for EOG retesting.
Thank you to Mrs. Ayers for a great talent show yesterday for PBIS winners. Parents and students alike enjoyed it. Stars were truly "born" yesterday.

Monday May 24, 2010
Today is day 5 on the specials calendar.
Career day for 4th and 5th graders this morning-see Bland and MCotter if you don't know schedule.
PBS Talent show at 1:30 in gym
Staff meeting this afternoon-very important
EOG results are in. Students did not do as well as we hoped. Remediation will begin tomorrow and contiune through Friday. Retesting will begin next week.
Website training next Tuesday and Wednesday.
We will have a sub secretary for our sub secretary. Mrs. Sawyer is doing well at home and feeling very good.

Friday May 21, 2010
Today is day 4 on the specials calendar
Today make up testing begins for EOG testing. Please review testing schedule.
Important staff meeting on Monday right after school. Please plan to attend.
At this time of year it is important all staff be on posted duties on time. Students need more supervision, not less. Some staff who are on afternoon and morning duties have not been showing up-make sure you are on post and that you actively supervise students.

Wednesday, May 19 2010
Today is day 0 on the specials calendar
Today is the third day of EOG testing. Third, fourth and fifth graders will test in Math. No specials. Please do not have excessive movement or outside PE near testing areas. Please review testing plan to see which special services will be be cancelled today. (Title 1, EC services).
Please plan on attending an important staff meeting next Monday. I plan to "cast the vision" for next year and share operating protocols for next school year. Things will be very different. Make sure you attend. Each day brings new information and possible change in how we will operate next year. Despite the looming challenges, I am confident we will continue to meet each and every child's needs.

Tuesday, May 18 2010
Today is day 0 for specials.
Today is the second day of EOG testing. third, fourth and fifth graders will test in Reading. No specials. Please do not have excessive movement or outside PE near testing areas. Please review testing plan to see which special services will be be cancelled today. (Title 1, EC services).
Do not plan on any specials for these days. I will let you know if that changes. While Thursday is a shorter testing day, there will be additional requirements for test administrators so proctors will be needed longer and specials may or may not be held. We will let you know on Thursday.
Please plan on attending an important staff meeting next Monday. I plan to "cast the vision" for next year and share operating protocols for next school year. Things will be very different. Make sure you attend.

Monday May 17, 2010
Today is day 3 on the specials calendar.
Today is the first day of EOG testing. Fifth graders will test in Science. Specials will take place as normal. Please review testing plan to see which special services will be be cancelled today. (Title 1, EC services).
Tuesday and Wednesday will be zero days for specials. K-2 specialists are normally used at their home schools for testing. Do not plan on any specials for these days. I will let you know if that changes. While Thursday is a shorter testing day, there will be additional requirements for test administrators so proctors will be needed longer and specials may or may not be held. We will let you know on Thursday.
3-5 teachers, please make sure activities done after testing are not similar in appearance or content to tested subjects. Now would be a good time to "do the fun stuff" you never get to do.

Friday, May 14, 2010
Today is day 2 on the specials calendar
EOG testing begins today. Specials will resume after testing is concluded.
EOG PEP rally will take place during specials today for grades 3-5
Specials will resume AFTER all EOG testing is over on Monday.
K-2 specials teachers and homeroom teachers will be given special instructions later today for next week.
SPRING FLING tonight ! Please come out to support the PTA. Please remember to bring treats for Spring Fling bake sale today already packaged for sale.
PBS corner-
Please remind students who have cafeteria duties such as tables washers or sweepers to follow PRIDE for cafeteria behavior (movement, voice level) Many students who have those special duties seem to move by running or talking too different loud.
Another issue brought up at latest PBS meeting revolved around students seemingly "rewarded" after being sent to the office. It is never the intent to make think students that by misbehaving they can be rewarded, but every situation warrants a different response. Many students are now being sent to the office with D-1's without the accompanying documentation of prior incidents (two classroom discipline forms). Administrators have limited information to work with in those cases, more often than not, a brief time out is all that can be done by way of consequence. Remember the main goal is to provide discipline and get kids back to class, not hand out punishment. Administrators have formed history and relationships with some students and their parents and utilize those relationships to help students get back on track and in class as soon as possible. That is why sometimes when a student is sent to the office, only certain administrators handle their situations. We will do a better job of making sure students have the right prior documentation if they come to the office with a D-1, however.

Tuesday May 11, 2010
Today is day 5 on the specials calendar
NCEXTEND2 testing continues today. Please limit movement near the testing classroom (Mr. Edwards class).
NO SES TUTORING TODAY
PBS meeting after school
EOG pep rally will be held Friday, May 14 during specials. No change in schedule.
Friday will be the first day of EOG testing (survey info). Remember during testing, Most days are zero days because specialists are involved with testing students with modifications, most of which take most if not all day to administer. Friday is a regular specials day AFTER testing completes. I will give the rest of the specials schedule for testing later this week.
June 1 and June 2-new website training.

Monday, May 10 2010
Today is day 4 on the specials calendar
Weekly Update will be sent later this morning

Thursday May 6, 2010
Today is day 2 on the specials calendar
Ron at meeting most of the day.
Please make sure you are sure of expectations for our Young Author's conference tomorrow. Following directions will make for A smooth and enjoyable experience for our students.
NCEXTEND2 survey Friday morning
PTA Teacher appreciation lunch 10:30-1:00 on Friday

Wednesday May 5, 2010
Today is day 1 on the specials calendar
First grade field trip to the zoo.
Last day for SES tutoring

Tuesday May 4, 2010
Today is day 6 on the specials calendar
Staff meeting today after school
Teacher Transfer fair-Parkland High-4:30
Corrections on dates-Career day-May 24 and Hobby day is 26.
Thanks to everyone who came out to skate night last night.
We also had a good turnout for last night's EOG parent workshop. Mrs. Scott did a good job and parents left with a lot of good information.
WSFCS will use a new web page program for next year. It is reported to be much easier to use than Schoolcenter. Full-time certified staff members are required to maintain a website as well as be trained in technology CEU's. We will announce a training scheduled for early June at Tuesday's staff meeting. Please plan on attending.
Please make sure you give Mr. Johnson the names of volunteers for this school year so they can be invited to the volunteer breakfast and please plan to donate something to the breakfast.

Monday May 3, 2010
Today is day 5 on the specials calendar.
EOG proctor training
Staff meeting-tomorrow
After-school tutoring
EOG parent workshop-today-5:30
Last skate night of the year
Please sign up for Spring Fling bake sale and to work for 30 minutes at Spring Fling-sign up sheet will be posted later today.
Congratulations to Princess Settle-Teacher Assistant for the fourth quarter.
Happy Teacher Appreciation week. The PTA has some surprises planned for this week and a special lunch on Friday.
PBS corner-Please give den dollars generously-our next shopping opportunity is coming up and we want to students to feel really good about having followed Gibson Pride. Thanks to LeeAnn for arranging the latest raffle-pie making with Chartwell's services. The treats were healthy and the kids had a great time. I even got a chance to make a pie. We may have discovered the next great chef.

Thursday April 29, 2010
Today is day 4 on the specials calendar.
After-school tutoring
Please give to the UNCF drive from now until May 22
4/5 Field day tomorrow
Thank you to all of the staff for your cooperation and support of field day activities. I realize it is a change in schedule and everyone works a station. Thank you for working so hard.
MCDonald's teachers' night-Come out and help raise money for our school.
Congratulations to Princess Settle-she is the teacher assistant of the quarter for the fourth quarter.
EOG test administrator training-7:30 sharp
EOG parent night-Monday, May 3 at 5:30. Please encourage your parents in grades 3-5 to come out and learn about ways to help support kids during this intense time. Parents can also learn about promotion standards.
PBS den dollar push-Each staff member should give out 2-3 packs of den dollars. There are a lot of raffles going on and we want students to have a fair chance to participate as well as being encouraged to follow PRIDE expectations.

Wednesday April 28, 2010
Today is day 0 on the specials calendar
Due to field day, today is day 0 on the specials calendar.
2/3 Field day
Please give to the UNCF fundraising campaign.
The UNCF campaign runs until May 22.
EOG test administrator testing training-tomorrow at 7:30 sharp
Thank you to all certified staff for completing the professional development survey sent by email yesterday. If you haven't filled it out, please take 5 min (if that) to do so. The information gathered will be very helpful for planning for next school year.
PBS corner-
It is very important that teachers have an extra special "push" of giving out den dollars in the last few weeks of school. The PBS committee has several fun raffles planned for the end of the year, along with the last opportunity to shop in the school store for this year. It has been noted that some students come to the school store with very few den dollars, 3 or 4 sometimes. Each staff member should give out at least 2 or 3 packs of den dollars in the last few weeks of school. The more we reinforce the right expectations, the smoother the school year will end.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Today is day 3 on the specials calendar
Please make sure you follow the correct specials schedule since there will be "zero" days this week.
EOG test administrator training-7:30-all certified staff expected to attend.
This training will be continued on Thursday at the same time.
2/3 Field day on Wednesday
4/5 Field day on Friday
Please join me in welcoming Liz Messick, who will be serving as our "sub" secretary while Mrs. Sawyer gets better.
Speaking of "Hen"...
For those that didn't know, Mrs. Sawyer had Gallstone surgery last weekend and is recovering nicely at this time. We would like to bring her some meals after she arrives back home. We will let you know when that is. There will be a sign up sheet posted. Thanks for your generosity last time.
Please give to the UNCF college fund. This worthy effort helps ensure the dream of college for deserving students who may not have the resources to finance college. Who knows, maybe some of our students will be recipients of UNCF scholarships in a few years. I certainly believe that is very likely. Remember our committee has prizes and gifts for pledging.The UNCF campaign runs until May 22.
Please begin thinking about how you will organize your recordkeeeping and closing procedures for the end of the year. It's right around the corner. At our next staff meeting, we will share deadlines and dates with you.

Thursday, April 22, 2010
Today is day 1 on the specials calendar.
After-school tutoring
Ron at meeting off campus from 11-1:30
Mrs. Sawyer is having another round of minor surgery. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers.
As you begin planning end of the year activities, please keep the calendar given out Tuesday to avoid conflicts.
Please send the dates of class or grade level picnics to administrators as soon as you determine them.
Regarding class picnics and other once a year events, students should not be excluded from these events under any circumstance. Please do not tie participation in these events to behavior. Nothing would create a greater sense of alienation, in my opinion, than be excluded from something that happens only once. If there are students whose behavior has been consistently difficult, there are other things such as asking parent or guardian to attend picnics and or field day, having students sit out for a brief period (10 minutes or less) are options.

Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Today is day 6 on the specials calendar.
K field trip today
AP meeting this morning-9:30
SES tutoring

Tuesday April 20, 2010
Today is day 5 on the specials calendar
Staff meeting after school
PBS shopping today
K field trip tomorrow
United Negro College Fund drive will begin today. We will hear more about it at the staff meeting.

Monday, April 19, 2010
Today is day 4 on the specials calendar
Lesson plans due for review today
PBS shopping day
Both CC's will be at training all day today
Classified staff meeting today after- school
FULL STAFF MEETING-TOMORROW AFTER SCHOOL
Mrs. Sawyer has had a small relapse. She was readmitted with possible gallstones. If you would like to contact her see me.

Thanks to everyone who completed the TWC survey-we had a 74% response rate. The info will be very important to foster school improvement.
Teacher Assistant of the quarter nominations can be emailed to Ron on Monday and Tuesday. Classified staff will vote on Wednesday for TA of the quarter.

Thursday, April 15, 2010
Today is day 2 on the specials calendar
Fourth grade trip to the zoo.
Ron at principal's meeting this morning
Teacher Working Conditions Survey deadline is tomorrow at midnight. Statewide goal is 90% response rate. Our district is at 81% and our school is at 65%. If just a few more teachers respond, we should be close to that goal. Thanks for your help.

We had a GREAT RESULT from the PBS assessment conducted last week. I will share just how great next week at the staff meeting. Great job to everyone.

Wednesday April 14, 2010
Today is day 1 on the specials calendar.
Certified staff, please remember to fill out Teacher Working conditions Survey. We would like to get as close to 100% as possible.
Kindergarten Registration today.
Fourth Grade field trip tomorrow
Report cards go home today. We are sending a reminder about stamps for the end of the year mailing. Please feel free to remind students as well.

Tuesday April 13, 2010
Today is day 6 on the specials calendar

• Teacher Working Conditions Survey (April 16)-We are at 60%. Our district has a 72% response rate-If you have not responded, please do so. Your opinion matters. The higher the response rate, the more useful the results. The survey takes minutes at the most.
  
• Teacher intent on-line forms deadline this Friday.
• PBS meeting today after school.
• Kindergarten registration is Tuesday and Wednesday. Please be aware of the many visitors in our building tomorrow which may include central office staff. Please remember to model professionalism in manner and appearance.

Monday, April 12, 2010
Today is day 5 on the specials calendar

• Teacher Working Conditions Survey (April 16)-We are at 60%. Our district has a 72% response rate-If you have not responded, please do so. Your opinion matters. The higher the response rate, the more useful the results. The survey takes minutes at the most.
  
• Teacher intent on-line forms deadline this Friday.
• PBS meeting tomorrow after school.
• Kindergarten registration is Tuesday and Wednesday. Please be aware of the many visitors in our building tomorrow which may include central office staff. Please remember to model professionalism in manner and appearance.
  

With the coming of warmer weather, families may tend to forget the school dress code prohibiting certain clothing items. We will provide copies of the student dress code for you to send home with students who forget the dress code. You don't need to send students to the office or even send home a classroom discipline form-It's not a level 1 or 2 offense. Just send home the reminder. More often than not, folks just forget.
In the same manner, I expect all staff to review the staff dress code adopted earlier this year. While shorts are included, wearing athletic shoes with them Monday -Thursday is not. If you choose to wear shorts, make sure you wear the appropriate shoes.

Friday April 9, 2010
Today is day 4 on the specials calendar.

• State health plan-on-line (deadline today)
• Teacher intent for 2010-2011-on-line (deadline April 16).
• Teacher Working Conditions Survey (April 16)-We are at 60%. Our district has a 67% response rate-If you have not responded, please do so. Your opinion matters
  
• All report cards must be downloaded to the R drive by today for review

Busy day today- this morning, two exciting events will take place:
AR carnival for students who met their goal for the third quarter. The schedule is posted in the mail room.
Fun with Fiddles for K students at 10:15. Mr. Johnson sent a change in lunch schedules for some classes.
Please join me in welcoming two new staff members: Kelly Holder and Monica Moretz. Kelly will be working with Mrs. McKinney in our EC dept and Monica will finish the year for Mrs. Allen.

Thursday, April 8, 2010
Today is day 3 on the specials calendar

• State health plan-on-line (deadline April 9)
• Teacher intent for 2010-2011-on-line (deadline April 16).
• Teacher Working Conditions Survey (April 16)-We are at 58%. Let's get 100%.
  
• All report cards must be downloaded to the R drive by Friday April 9 for review.
• 1st and 4th grade planning

PBS Corner-If you have developed a behavior contract or plan with a student, please send it with the students when they go to specials to help specialists follow through with your plan. Please make sure students have hall passes when they are in the hallways.
Mrs. Sawyer has been at home for several days and she is doing well. She wouldn't mind a call now and then. She will still be out for several weeks yet more than likely.
As a result, Mrs. Wardlaw is back to help us maintain payroll and other financial matters. She will be instituting a new and simpler procedure for collecting field trip money. It will be shared with homeroom teachers in the next few days.