Digital Learning Day

Over the past two years, many of you have taken part in Digital Learning Day.  It would be great if everyone found someway to take part this year.  Digital Learning Day allows all of us to try something new, take a risk, have fun learning and find different ways to incorporate technology.   

As in the past, I have created a Google Doc (Digital Learning Day 2/5/14 @ Waldwick HS) where I am asking teachers to post what they have planned for Digital Learning Day.  #DLWHS Doc 

For the teachers that use Twitter with their classes, we will be using the hashtag #DLWHS to highlight the events of the day. 

Interested teachers can find free tools and examples on the following website:
http://www.digitallearningday.org/participate/educators/

To officially register for Digital Learning Day and share what you have planned please go to: http://www.digitallearningday.org/events/create-an-event/

WHS Staff News - 1/17/14

School News Sometimes the administrative team feels like the picture above when dealing with observations (SOTELS).  As of January 17, 205 Classroom Observations have been completed.  As an Administrative Team, we have seen a lot of good lessons, engaging assignments, cool projects and teachers stepping out of their comfort zone to try new things.  The post conferences have created great conversation, self-reflection and hopefully an understanding that the Administrative Team is supportive and wants to help our teachers grow as educators.

Something to keep in mind - In the past you have heard the saying "TEACH Bell to Bell."  Instead of that, I want see "LEARNING Bell to Bell."  This is an area the Administrative Team has noticed, in some cases, needs work.  There are times when you need to break down a lab or pack up the lab cart; those are understandable.  What we don't want to see is kids packed up standing by the door, loud conversations unrelated to your class or students leaving class before the bell rings.


Professional Development Day - Monday, January 20
The "Edcamp" Model has come to Waldwick!!  Monday should be a great day of learning since you get to set your own agenda.  With over forty different presentations taught by fellow Waldwick educators, there are many options to choose from.  During the workshops, for those of you on twitter, please share what you are learning by using the hashtag #edcamping14.

PSAT Meeting

On Monday, January 20 during period 2 there will be a meeting for all sophomores and juniors who took the PSAT’s back in October.   Teachers should take attendance and escort the students to the little theater.  

MP 2
The End of Marking Period 2 is Friday, January 24.
Grading tab will be open as of 1/24 and will close on 1/29 at 9am
Remember - parent communication (Positive and for students struggling or failing)

Digital Learning Day is coming "Again" to Waldwick High School on February 5.  Mark your calendars and starting thinking about what your going to do with your classes.  Digital Learning Day will also be a Jean Day.   More information and resources will be posted soon.

WHS Principal's Blog  Posts 
From the Classroom - 21 day Positive Challenge
From the Classroom - Interactive Journalism Websites  
From the Classroom - Global Project on the Great Depression 
December Student's of the Month 

PD Resources 
5 helpful strategies for self-reflection via Justin Tarte ( @justintarte ). 

Thanks to everyone that gave blood today.