Monday, November 23, 2020

WHS Staff News - Week of 11/23/20


First, I want to wish everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving! I am so grateful for all of you and how hard you have been working the past three months. We all know this is not easy. Take a break this upcoming long weekend from school work, as best you can. It’s important we take care of ourselves and the people around us.

I received 27 responses from the concurrent teaching survey and everyone of them had a yes answer to using concurrent teaching. I appreciate the feedback on the pros/cons and think we have made great strides in finding ways to make this work. Based on talking with teachers around the building and the feedback I received from the survey, starting Monday, 11/30, concurrent teaching will be required for all classes. Before you react, this means a few things - nothing really major.

Concurrent teaching will help you with planning and workload!

The number of students who have opted for full-time remote learning keeps growing every day. 

A big reason for this shift is student accountability. This will give students structure by having them log in for each class and more importantly, streamline class attendance. With this move, students will no longer have the option of checking themselves in via Genesis. We will turn that feature off. Teachers will be expected to take attendance via Meet each period for all students in every class. This honestly should make it easier for you because you control it. No more are they virtual, FT remote, etc. If a students is on the Meet they are present - if not, they are absent. The automatic Google Meet attendance report seems to be working well from what I have heard and can be used for attendance verification.

For the hundredth time, concurrent teaching does not mean teaching online for the entire period. Ideas …. get the class started with a short lesson, have students present projects, have students work in groups, conference with individual students, use breakout rooms, etc. These are all things I have seen used by our teachers that are working really well.  If anyone needs help or wants to brainstorm ideas, Dianna, Mike, Susie or I are more than happy to sit and talk with you. 

I will put something out to the students and parents before Wednesday so they know what to expect for next week. 

No Homework Break
There should be no homework assigned over the break. This will apply to the holiday brake as well.

Referendum
As you saw last week, the BOE is moving forward with the referendum, which will go out to the voters on January 26. The project is 90% focused on the High School. We need this to pass.  So for those of you on Twitter, please RT my post related to the referendum so we can get the message out.

The website they created has all the information related to the projects.

Fall Season comes to an end 
What a great Fall Season! Special thanks to all the coaches, Boz, Mrs. Esteves and Mr. Mayer for making it all happening during these crazy times. As a group you gave our students and families some normalcy when so many people needed that.  

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Monday, November 16, 2020

WHS Staff News - 11/16/20


Focus on the SMALL wins! 

I know how hard these first three months have been on so many of you. To be totally honest with you, this past month I have struggled at times with my energy, my focus and mostly worrying about the health and safety of all of you and the students. It's a lot. What keeps me going is focusing on the positives and embracing those moments. Whether it's reading positive tweets, watching our teams play, writing positive notes, time with family or just talking with students, those small moments are saving me and keeping me going.  All of those SMALL moments in each day make all of this manageable. We all need to find ways to get through this and be there for our students. Give the small wins a chance, I really think it can help and bring some joy to what we are going through. We need to stay Warrior strong, we need to remain positive for our own mental health and for our students.  

Please consider sharing how you are doing and if you need anything from me via the 
Mindset Check In form.  

 


Budget Items (2 Things)

#1 Big Ticket Items (Thank you to all those who already submitted)

This link below is to be used for any requests that you have for your program/classes that need to be budgeted for the 21-22 school year. This should be used for ALL Digital Resources, large items or program needs. This form is NOT to be used for basic school Specialty Supplies and other items purchased yearly through Ed-Data. 


All requests must be submitted to Mr. Carroll by 3pm Wednesday, November 18th for approval.  Please note that these are requests and will be reviewed, but your submission does not guarantee that they will be included in the budget. We will inform you either way when the process is finalized.


https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Qur1J7xd023ZjbBeWz3Go17Gjh0_5XZIxHdHeD8bSLo/copy  (This link should force you to make a copy)

#2 General Supplies Order - Due December 4th

Below is the spread sheet for all of your general budget items by department. Please enter all of the items you wish to purchase in the spreadsheet.  This is not new, we have done this in the past. 

For the most part budgets are staying the same so keep that in mind.  If there is something new that you want and you are not sure money-wise, see me. We might be able to get some of these items with this year's budget. 

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Bd4v6cyYbXGUvAmRtjgnF8Ko7pPdMOKNnU1_8s4rd8Q/edit#gid=1152990437


News 

Warrior Gear Sale is up and running.  Samples of some of the items will be in next week.  Because of COVID, trying on the samples will not be allowed. 

 http://whsprincipal.blogspot.com/2020/11/2020-warrior-gear-holiday-sale.html

FYI - Next Monday, 11/23, there will be a film crew around campus taking video for the referendum. They will be here in the afternoon. The referendum will be moving forward with a January 26th voting date. Fingers crossed! 

Wednesday 11/25 (Minimum Day) for all. The day will be optional to work from home or in the building. No office hours, the day ends at 12:44.  

December Calendar - Hybrid Schedule  


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Friday, October 9, 2020

Friday 10/9 post for upcoming week


Things for next week ... 

Fire Drill
On Thursday and Friday, we will have our October fire drill around 11:30. It will different than a traditional fire drill. Here is what to expect ...
  • An announcement will be made that the Fire Alarm will sound
  • Do not move or exit the building
  • Teachers should review the path and area on campus that class would exit
  • An announcement will be made ending the drill
  • If the alarm goes off again, staff and students should exit the building
PSAT/SAT Testing Rooms
On Monday and Tuesday, all Language Arts teachers should let their students know which room they will be testing in. DO NOT share the list with students. The list of students is included on the email for this blog post.

Plan for Wednesday, 10/14
All staff will be taking part in proctoring the PSAT/SAT. There will be no office hours on Wednesday afternoon. We will use the time to focus on concurrent teaching.
The Math teachers will be available for Q & A in the Cafeteria
Teachers will have time to play and practice
PD can be offered based on need: What tech help would you like to see offered

Concurrent Teaching
I know some of you are excited to get started with this next week. At this point, I am not mandating concurrent teaching be used for every class, every day. I do expect you to try it, explore the options and add this teaching strategy to your tool box.

The Math teachers have experienced very few issues and everything seems to be moving along well. Attendance is one issue that was brought to our attention; however, we are working on that issue. The key for attendance during concurrent teaching is that the teacher is taking attendance for all students. Students should be reminded that they are not to check in when they have a concurrent lesson. Please make sure students know in advance that you will be holding a concurrent lesson so they know to be online during your class time.

Here is a list of things to do/think about before you start with concurrent teaching.


PDP Info for the 20-21 SY
Below are the two school goals for your PDP plan. They are all written out, all you need to do is copy and paste into Genesis. No work required. You will need to create a third goal, which is your personal goal.

How you track your goals is up to you, but it should be kept somewhere.

Goal 1 is what I have talked about since day one related to Consistent Communication via Google Classroom and following up with students and parents.

Goal 2 focuses on making the most of the in person learning time, to include more interpersonal activities and experiences. What do I mean by that? With limited in-person face time, it's important we use the time we do have the best we can; that should include: more student to student interactions which can include discussions, brainstorming, sharing ideas, answering higher level questions, etc.

Avoid doing long videos, extended reading/writing time in class, long in-class assessments, etc. Utilize shorter video clips and have discussions, start a writing assignment and then have them share with each other, have the students start answering questions and then check for understanding throughout the lesson, etc.

Nothing I am asking from you related to these goals should be difficult to accomplish because so many of you are already doing them in your classes. Your PDP should be completed in Genesis by 9am on Wednesday, October 28. That’s 19 days notice.

WHS Professional Learning Goals for 20-21 SY

Goal 1 Consistent Communication with Students/Parents throughout the school year
Goal 2 Make the most of the in person learning time, to include more interpersonal
activities and experiences
Goal 3 Individual Goal or MS Goal if a crossover

Professional Learning Activities - (Follow-up Activities)
Goal 1
Utilize Google Classroom and organize all units using the Classwork Tab
Utilize office hours to follow up with students and provide extra help
Communicate with parents of your struggling learners. This should include at least one phone call or Meet.
Provide positive feedback to students and parents throughout the school year

Goal 2
Interpersonal activities should make up at least 15/20 minutes of a 64 minute class
Allow time for virtual students to collaborate with each other
At least once per marking period, create an activity that allows students to be exposed to and work with other cohorts


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Monday, October 5, 2020

WHS Staff News - Week of 10/5/20


Warrior Wellness Wednesday's in PE Class. The PE Department has implemented Wellness Wednesday's into their program. The teachers have been sharing the Dimensions of Wellness with their students and having them reflect on each. 

There are 10 dimensions of wellness, but we are focusing on 8.
  • Physical
  • Mental / Emotional
  • Social
  • Occupational
  • Financial
  • Environmental
  • Intellectual
  • Spiritual
In addition to the Wellness activities, the PE department has been focusing on physical movement during the month of September. I wanted to share these two things with everyone for two reasons, first considering taking 15/20 minutes of your prep to take a walk on the track to get some steps in and get some fresh air. The second reason is the Dimensions of Wellness can help all of us during these stressful days.  For your own wellness, consider reviewing the slide show to familiarize yourself with the 8 dimensions. 

Week of Respect (Blog Post)
Monday and Tuesday will be “wear blue day” both at school or at home. Blue is the National color for Bullying Prevention. Thursday and Friday will be “wear orange “ both at school and at home. Orange is the Waldwick color representing a bullying free environment. Jeans are allowed all week. 

Recent Blog Posts - WHS Principal's Blog (Intro to new staff)


Wednesday, 10/7 Final Assessment due. 
Assessing students is part of good teaching, just think of SGO's as another assessment. Don't over think it. 

If you are on Twitter, you might have seen on Friday/Saturday a few of my tweets directed at the NJDOE regarding mandates. I am fighting for you and trying to make them understand it is not a normal year. I will keep the pressure on but until they change we need to do what we are required to do. Dianna and I are the same page with trying to help you make this as easy as possible.   

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Tuesday, September 29, 2020

WHS Staff News - Week of 9/28/20


Last week I asked you to check-in on your students, this week I am checking in on you.  This year is going to be a marathon not a sprit so please keep that in mind. This year is like no other and 17 days in, this is hard and not what any of us signed up for when we choose this profession. But we did signup to teach, impact students, change lives and build relationships.  So, let's embrace that and do what we love to do. 

I created a form called Mindset Check-In that I will be using to touch base with the staff to make sure everyone is doing ok, find-out if anyone needs help with anything and mainly just to let you all know I am thinking about you and your well-being. 

Starting this week the Math teachers will be piloting concurrent teaching in all of their classes. Next Wednesday, 10/7, we will have a Q&A regarding concurrent teaching for the entire staff.  The Math teachers will be available to talk and share how the pilot is going. The goal right now is to roll this out starting October 12 as an additional tool for you to utilize.  We will also use the afternoon of Wednesday 10/14 for PD, questions and time to play related to concurrent teaching.  Dr. Elias is also available to help/talk through this model with you. She is an email/call away. 

For me, one size does not fit all when it comes to this model; but, I do believe this can be a great tool for keeping your entire class roster connected, align your pacing with your different cohorts, as well as help you make this way of teaching more manageable. 

Back to School Night - Thursday, 10/1
From last weeks blog post: (All links are due today)
Here are some guidelines for Back to School Night. Please review and if you have any questions, please see me. The due date for the video and your website updated is Tuesday, 9/29, at 3pm.

Reminder Testing Meeting (SAT/PSAT Testing) on Wednesday, 9/30, for all certificated staff. Some of you have never proctored the PSAT or SAT, so we all need to know what's going on and what to do. Everyone will be involved on Wednesday 10/14. Link to Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/dbg-aeim-eku
*I will email the proctoring schedule later today.

Last call for The Blended & Online Learning Course with Catlin Tucker
If you are on Twitter, I'm sure you have seen/read some of her blog posts in the past. The district is prepared to pay for this online course that is self-paced and offer PD hours for those who take advantage of the course. If you are interested, please add your name to this doc by tomorrow. 

SGO's - If you have questions, are confused or getting frustrated, please schedule a time to talk with Dianna.  She is here to help and will walk you through the process.  We wish we could ignore them, but NJDOE thinks during a pandemic we still need to have them?? Don't let them get to you. Complete the forms, give the assessment and be done with it. Set yourself up for success. 


PD Resources 

Google adds more features to Meet. 

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Tuesday, September 22, 2020

WHS Staff News - Week of 9/21/20


Be aware of your students' feelings! I have mentioned this to a few teachers, but everyone should be checking in with their students to get a sense that things are clear with assignments and that the workload is manageable. I have been hearing from 9th graders that they are feeling overwhelmed and starting to stress out over the workload and staying organized. Please listen to your students. 

For all teachers, you should not be posting work on days you don't see your students. You can assign projects, reading assignments, etc., but nothing new should be posted on Classroom the days you don't see that class. 
 
Plan for Wednesday, October 14 (PSAT/SAT Testing) 
Testing meeting for all certified staff (Teachers, Counselors, CST) - Wednesday, 9/30, at 3:15pm via Meet. (This will be our monthly staff meeting. Why is the meeting starting at 3:15 ... because of office hours for remote learners.)
I will post the Meet link later this week. 

Day of Testing Schedule 
  • All rooms are being used
  • Everyone will be proctoring
  • Rooms will be limited to 10-12 students 
  • Students will be grouped by cohorts 
  • There will be no office hours that afternoon
Work should be posted by 8am Wednesday morning for all 9th and 10th graders. The work assigned should be asynchronous work. Juniors and Seniors not testing will be working on college related items.  You do not need to assign them work. 

BTSN Info 
Here are some guidelines for Back to School Night. Please review and if you have any questions, please see me. The due date for the video and your website updated is Tuesday, 9/29, at 3pm. 

SGO's & PDP's
So, on yesterday, 9/21, an NJDOE Memo was released regarding SGO's and PDP's and no surprise the state is moving forward as in the past with both.  
Dianna updated the "Creating Effective SGO's Timeline" and updated all dues dates.  Please review the doc and if you have any questions, please see Dianna. 

PDP's will be due on Wednesday, 10/28, by 1pm. I will get you more information next week. 
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Monday, September 14, 2020

WHS Staff News - Week of 9/14/20

I could not have asked for a better first week with students in the building! Thank You!!! With everything we had to overcome to get here, we should all be extremely proud. I hope some of your fears and concerns have been calmed with what we have put in place. We can't relax with our safety precautions and we need to continue to BE PRESENT every class, everyday for out students. 

I know this is not easy. Everyday I worry about teacher burn out and the amount of stress so many of you are feeling. Right now my best advice is, Focus on what you can control.


  
PD Opportunity
The Blended & Online Learning Course with Catlin Tucker  
If you are on Twitter, I'm sure you have seen/read some of her blog posts in the past. 
The district is prepared to pay for this online course that is self-paced and offer PD hours for those who take advantage of the course.  
If you are interested, please add your name to this doc. 

Department Meetings on "Concurrent Teaching" 
Concurrent teaching is the process of teaching students in the classroom and students online at the same time.
As I stated in my Remind message last week, we are starting the conversation about concurrent teaching and the options it provides. Dr. Elias (Director of Curriculum) will lead the conversation and share teaching strategies and resources with each group.

Monday 9/14 2:30 - 3:15 Math (HS) Room 501
Tuesday 9/15 2:30 - 3:15 Social Studies (HS) Room 141
Wednesday 9/16 1:35 - 2:15 
    PE & HE (HS & MS) Room MSMPR
    Related Arts (HS & MS) Room MSMPR
Wednesday 9/16 2:30 - 3:15 World Language (HS) Room 144
Thursday 9/17 2:30 - 3:15 Language Arts (HS) Room 138
Monday 9/21 2:30 - 3:15 Science (HS) Room 301

*Special Education teachers should attend the department meeting they teach more in. 

A Few Quick Hits
  • Fire Drills - For our first fire drill we will be walking through it first as per new State guidelines.  I will have more info on this later in the week.
  • Reminder that all Google Classroom post for AM classes should be posted at 8am daily

Lunch time offer from Parkwood Deli
Few important details.....

All orders MUST be in by 11:00 am so we can get them to you by 12:30.
All orders MUST be entered as a PICKUP as we do not typically deliver at this time.
Enter Pickup time as ASAP.
In the special instructions, they MUST include WALDWICK HS so there is no confusion.
Park Wood Deli & Catering

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Friday, September 4, 2020

WHS Staff News - 9/4/20


Yesterday was like no other first day I was ever apart of, but you all made it work! Great job! Yesterday 70 of 73 remote learners picked up their materials. As they came in, I asked them how the day went and they said:
"Better then I thought" 
"Went really well"
"You guys were so organized to starting the school"  
All of our hard work and attention to details paid off! Thank You! 

For this afternoon … Use the time at HOME after 12:44 to:

Plan for next week
Work on Safe Schools
Google Classroom Items
Invite the admin account to all your classes adminwhs@waldwickschools.org
Double check the name on your classes, Teacher’s Last Name should start each class title

A few updates:

Duty Assignments start on Tuesday

Hall Duty - Main Entrance / Art Wing please monitor the bathrooms and have students scan in using the QR code. Once they complete the form, their info will appear on the Google Sheet. I suggest you bookmark this sheet. Bathroom Check-In Sheet

Break Coverage - The four staff members that are providing breaks, please be on time.

Study Hall - students at home do not need to check in for attendance. Only worry about attendance for the students in the building.

Student Check-In via Genesis 
Students will be checking in for home via Genesis - The link below would be for internal purposes (Draft).

Page 1 - Students' display
Page 2 - Faculty display in Class Attendance - Post Attendance screen
Page 3 - Display in the Student's Class Attendance Tab.
Genesis Student Check-In

*This information will be shared with the students later today. 

For Tuesday and Wednesday - Student Helpers 
For the first in-person days of school (Tuesday, September 8th and Wednesday, September 9th) we are asking students to help freshmen and new students find their classes. Members of the Student Council and/or National Honor Society will be around the building helping out. Students will be allowed to leave class one minute early and arrive to your next class one minute late (if necessary) in order to help. The names of students are posted on your Calendar.

This morning I will be working on a video for students and parents which will included reminders about next week and what they need to know. Once It is finished I will share it with the staff as well.

Have a great weekend!!!

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Saturday, May 9, 2020

WHS Staff News - AP Testing Info / Academic Awards

Sorry for the Saturday post, but there is a lot going on. No action needed until Monday. 

This state memo was released last night regarding Virtual Graduation Celebrations -
NJDOE Memo 

AP testing will take place the weeks of 5/11 and 5/18. Penny pushed this schedule out last week.

5/12 - Calculus AP- starting at 1:30
5/13-AP Physics 2 - starting at 11:30
5/13 - English Literature- starting at 1:30
5/15- US History - starting at 1:30
5/18 - Biology - starting at 1:30
5/19- Psychology - starting at 1:30, Japanese - 3:30
5/20- English Language- starting at 1:30
5/21 - Economics - starting at 3:30
5/22- Spanish Language - starting at 3:30
*Please refer to the Calendar on those days to see a list of students who will be testing.

For the most part the AP testing should not interfere with our minimum day schedule. As we all know in a normal year, AP testing is a stressful time for most of the students taking them and even more so this year. I ask that we all be cognizant of this and be mindful of assignments and due dates for students taking AP exams.

If needed, AP students will be given two extra days to complete assignments from other classes. This small gesture will hopefully relieve a bit of the stress and worry some of them are feeling and allow them to focus on the AP exam. As always, the goal is to not overwhelm them.

Academic Awards 
With the official news that school will end on June 12, there is a lot that needs to get done. For the Department Awards I need the following information updated on the DOC. 

If the award winner is not listed please get that done by Monday at 3pm.
The ceremony will be recorded in advance and posted on June 3, so I need to plan out the presentations.
I just added a column “2020 Presentation Virtual Ceremony” on the Doc.

So two things, please update the Presenter and Presentation Column

I need to know if the presenter is willing to submit a video recognizing the award winner (Makes it personal). I am hoping most people will do this. 

If there is no one in the department that wants to create a video, then the write up (Most are done) would be used by me or someone else to record a video reading the write up. 

Please indicate ... I will submit a video or have someone else read it.
*Need name of presenter added on the Doc.

Once I have this information, I will push out to the presenters, guidelines for your video submissions.
If anyone would like to volunteer to present additional scholarship awards via video, please add your name to the bottom of the Doc.


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Monday, April 27, 2020

WHS Staff News - Week of 4/27/20


I hope everyone is doing well and taking care of themselves, both physically and mentally. The Admin Team and I have been working behind the scenes on plans for the rest of the school year, wether we are in school or if we have to finish the year at home. Just trying to be proactive on so many topics.


Decision Day 2020
May 1 is traditionally decision day for seniors. This year, seniors will be decorating their front door or room to share with everyone where they will be attending in the Fall.  Those pictures will be shared with me and I will be posting them on social media. As you see the posts, please consider sending a congratulations message to show your support. 

You are invited ... National Honor Society Induction Ceremony will be held virtually on Tuesday, May 5, 2020, at 6:30 p.m. Link: NHS Induction Ceremony (Live Ceremony)

Google Meet Extension you might want to consider
Google Meet Grid View
Shows everyone in a Google Meet

Nod - Reactions for Google Meet
Quick emoji reactions for muted team members

Google Meet Classroom Extension
This app adds a whiteboard into Google Meet for each participant with the extension installed.
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Monday, April 6, 2020

WHS Staff News - 4/6/20


March 13 was when this new world of virtual learning started; a day most of us will not forget.  Today marks 24 days out, 16 actual school days.  We are entering the fourth week of teaching from home, but I'm sure we have Spring Break on our minds. Not that we can go anywhere with family or friends; however, a break from the pressure of teaching, planning, responding to emails/Reminds and of course Meets. Balancing home and work has not been easy and all of us can use the time off.
I ask all of you to promise me that you will give work a break! Instead:

  • Read a book
  • Spend time connecting with family in your house as well as calling/FaceTiming family/friends that are not in your house
  • Get outside ... take a walk, go for a bike ride, do some gardening
  • Stay up late, wake up late
  • Do some Spring cleaning, if that relaxes you
  • Experiment in the kitchen
  • Start planning your 2021 Spring Break Mega Trip! You deserve it! April 12 -16
  • Watch less news! (30 minutes a day)
  • Do what makes YOU Happy!

I still will be tweeting birthday messages, sharing positive thoughts and connecting with other educators on Twitter but I will not be answering emails everyday or opening my computer each morning to look at my to do list.
If I have to get information out to you over the beak, I will send it via Remind. But that would only be something that was time sensitive/important.

 Access to the Building 
As of today the building is off limits to all staff until further notice.

 Homework over SpringBreak 
There should be no assignments given over Spring Break.
AP teachers, if you feel you need to provide students with study guides or materials to review I will leave that up to you. Please be smart about it. It is OPTIONAL, not required work for students.

 Wednesday Staff Meeting 
We will get together via Meet on Wednesday at 2:15pm. I will send the invite out later today.

 Second Semester Assessment 
In talking with the ScIP Committee and the Admin Team, we have drafted a plan on how to deal with the second semester assessment. The link below provides an outline and the why. I will talk more about this on Wednesday at the staff meeting but would like your feedback prior to Wednesday.
Drafted of Proposed Plan  *Staff Feedback  (Optional)


 A few Social Media Posts




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Monday, March 30, 2020

WHS Staff News - Week of 3/30/20


Hang in there! In the simplest of terms, this is what I expect from you ... 

You first, family second, student's third, curriculum fourth! 
KISS - Keep It Simple Stupid. (Be clear with your students, have reasonable expectations)
This journey we are on right now is a Marathon, not a sprint. 

Keep these things in mind. Here if you need me. 

Below is a tweet I saw over the weekend that I thought was right on about setting parameters and finding balance. 

 Staff PSA Video
I am working with Neil on creating a staff PSA to get our students/community to understands the importance of listen to CDC guidelines. I hope to have more information out later today. 


Rotation Schedule 
The rotation schedule has been updated untill Spring Break. No changes to the original schedule.
Special Bell Schedule Home Instruction Virtual School Days

 Virtual Spirit Week 3/30 - 4/3



Resources
Google Meet Grid view Extension (Shows everyone in a Google Meet - Brady Bunch like)
Link to get the Extension (Add to Chrome)

Screencastify
If you are into Screencastify, this coupon code CAST_COVID, will get you access to the unlimited plan for educators.  Go to their site, click on pricing and then put in the redeem coupon. 
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Monday, March 23, 2020

WHS News - Week of 3/23


Week one in the books! I could not be more proud of the entire WHS community for how we have handled all of this so far. I know this is hard. No one signed up to be a virtual teacher, but pandemics make us to do things we never thought we would have to do.  

Please stay positive with your students, follow up with them, check in on them, offer your help and most importantly, continue to over communicate with them. 

 Last night I went live on the Warrior Broadcast Center - if you missed it here is the link to Episode 1 Checking in with Carroll 

Starting tonight, there will be a weekly student produced Wake Up Waldwick LIVE show streaming via the Warrior Broadcast Center/s YouTube channel.  Mr. Meltzer and his students are determined to make sure the show goes on!


Gradebook 
The end of Marking Period 3 is Friday. Below are the dates and Laurie's email with all of the details and timeline.  I don't want any incompletes issued without my approval first and I don't anticipate my seeing a lot of good reasons to allow one.  There is no excuse for "I didn't have the time" by a student. If a student is missing work or has not completed an assignment, you the teacher need to follow up with the student and counselor.  

ELL Narratives - will be handled the same way as normal.  Laurie will be pushing more information out on this. 

GRADING OPENS FOR TEACHERS: Thursday, MARCH 26 @ 10:00am
GRADING CLOSES FOR TEACHERS: Wednesday, APRIL 1 @ 9:00am SHARP
REPORT CARDS RELEASED TO PARENTS: Friday, APRIL 3 @ 10:00am
Ms. Cassidy's directions/timeline

Schedule for Friday 3/27
Friday 3/27 was a scheduled "R" day.  It will be a Day 1, with Monday also being a Day 1 as scheduled.  

SGO's (I have received a few emails on this topic)
My first response to these questions is to worry about your lesson and students. Non-tenured staff should be thinking about them and figuring out if you need to adjust your assessment. If you have questions, please reach out to Dianna.
For tenured teachers, we have time. If you want to work on them, feel free. 
We have no guidance from the state on what to do with SGO's.  When we do, we will share that information.

Online Resources (Not adding to your plate, just sharing. No pressure)
Formative 
A few of our math teachers have a premium access account to the site Formative (we pay for it).  Like other companies, Formative is offering any educator a free premium account. It's a great resource for assessing students in all areas. Check out the site and see if it's something you would like me to give you access to.  I have to add your name to our school account. 

https://goformative.com/ (link to site)
https://community.goformative.com/videos (Link to Video Tutorials)

Zoom Resources
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Wednesday, January 29, 2020

WHS Staff News - Week of 1/28/20


Halfway point! We have had a busy first half of the year with a lot to be proud of! Please keeping doing what's best for our students: Push them, challenge them, show them you care and be there for them when they need you! 

 Course name changes. Please see video. 


Elective Fair (New Date) - February 20 in the HS Gym
We will run a special schedule with all classes meeting.  Assembly Schedule (Page 3) There will be no classes from 10:40 - 11:18.  Seniors will have an extended lunch.   

What's coming up! I made this list for me but felt it could not hurt sharing it with everyone. All these dates/events are on the calendar or will be added. 
I also updated the Working Wednesday Doc to reflect the updates I made on this list.  No dates were changed, just what the focus of the Wednesday would be.

1/28 PSAT Data Day - Math Department
1/29 PSAT Data Day - Language Arts Department
1/29 Working Wednesday - DLC Time
1/30 Placement Test - Language Arts 3pm
2/3 Doc for recommendations will be pushed out to staff
2/4 Placement Test - Science 3pm
2/5 Working Wednesday - Task (Recommendations)
2/6 PSAT Data Day - Math Department
2/6 Placement Test - Social Studies Arts 3pm
2/11 Placement Test - Spanish Arts 3pm
2/12 Working Wednesday - Task (Recommendations/SGO’s)
2/13 Recommendations due for all departments by 8am
2/19 Working Wednesday - DLC Time 
2/20 Elective Fair in the Gym - Assembly Schedule with all classes meeting
(10:40 - 11:18 No classes)
2/24 - (Monday) Staff Meeting in the Little Th 
2/25 9th Grade - Grade Level Meeting 11:35 in the Little Th (Course requests)
2/26 Academic requests inputted in Genesis by the counselors 
2/26 10th Grade - Grade Level Meeting 11:35 in the Little Th (Course requests)
2/26 Working Wednesday - No meeting, free to go! 
2/27 11th Grade - Grade Level Meeting 11:35 in the Little Th (Course requests)
3/2 All electives requests due to the counselors via the students
3/4 Working Wednesday - DLC Time
3/11 Working Wednesday - DLC Time
3/13 Elective requests inputted in Genesis by the counselors
3/18 Working Wednesday - Staff Meeting
3/25 Working Wednesday - No Meetings / Free to Go
4/1 Working Wednesday - Tasks - SGO’s
4/8 Working Wednesday - DLC Time
4/10-17  No School
4/22 Working Wednesday - DLC Time
4/24 PSAT 10 (Sophomores)
4/29 Working Wednesday - TBA
5/6 Working Wednesday - State Testing Meeting
5/14 NJSLA Testing: Math/ELA (9th & 10th Gr.), Science (11th Gr.)
5/15 Teen Arts
5/18 NJSLA Testing: Math/ELA (9th & 10th Gr.), Science (11th Gr.)
6/9 Semester Assessments
6/10 Semester Assessments
6/11 Semester Assessments
6/12 Semester Assessments




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