WHS Staff News - 11/1/13

Sunrise in Maine via Elizabeth Sullivan

As we come to end of the first marking period I hope everyone has been communicating with parents relating to academic struggles and more importantly, the positive things their children are doing in your classes.  As you post your final grades for MP 1, consider picking up the phone, typing out an email praising some of your students for their effort, commitment to their academics or maybe for their great personality.  Sometimes we forget that the little things can go a long way with students.  Positive and negative comments can have lasting effects that you, the teacher, might never know. 

Individual praise by a teacher can put a smile on a student's face and motivate them to go above and beyond for that teacher.  What teacher wouldn't want their students to go above and beyond for them.  

No feedback/lack of interest by a teacher can be perceived by a student as though, "that teacher doesn't like me, care about me or care if I pass or fail their class."  I hope no one wants to be thought of as that type of teacher! 

My suggestion is to take at least 44 minutes next week to communicate with parents.  Talk with parents about how their child is struggling and help them understand what they can do to help.  Also make some calls related to the students that are working hard and putting in a great effort.   Take time in class to praise students for being great.  #ownit 

Looking Back

• Halloween was a success.  Thanks to all the staff members that were dressed in costume yesterday! Check out my Halloween post that has pictures of the winners from each category and more pictures from the day on the WHS Instagram account. Blog Post - Halloween Pictures 2013 

Looking Forward

• Next week is a short week with a minimum day on Tuesday and no school Thursday and Friday.
• Marking Period 1 ends on Wednesday, November 6.  Jackie will be sending an email out with important grade reporting information.  
• Very busy week coming up for our Fall Athletes.  The state playoffs will begin on Monday and every fall team qualified.  Congratulations to the coaches and players for all your hard work and dedication.  More details on games/times will be posted Sunday night on the WHS Principal's Blog.  
• Remember its "Movember " 

PD Resources 

Kimberly Tyson ( @tysonkimberly ) the author of the blog learningunlimitedllc.com recently wrote a two part series on "How to Select and Teach Academic Vocabulary at the Secondary Level. "  An informative read for all subject area teachers.

Post 1 of 2 - How to Select and Teach Academic Vocabulary at the Secondary Level 
Post 2 of 2 - How to Select and Teach Academic Vocabulary at the Secondary Level 


Just for Fun
If you need a god laugh take a look at this video from the @TheEllenShow Watch their face as they get scared.