Take a risk and try something new this year... and then share it!

As a Principal,  I've sent a welcome back letter to faculty members every August.  It's a way to reconnect and set a positive tone for the upcoming school year.  Since I am often encouraging faculty members to learn new skills and share with each other... I decided to practice what I preach.   This is my August welcome back message to the faculty...

Recently, I've noticed an incredible surge in the number of educational articles (along with blogs and tweets!) focused on the importance of bringing 'media literacy' into today's classrooms.  As educators, we have an obligation to be ongoing 'digital learners' to best prepare our students for tomorrow.  Effectively using current technologies is rapidly becoming an essential communication skill for all ages.  (Even my 74 year old aunt has learned to Skype to see a newborn grandchild living three states away).  This inspired me to explore how to use the camera lens on my new home computer.  Using the Tutor for iMovie 'll App I taught myself to create and edit a video.  The Internet is filled with so many free technology tools and how to guides.  On this page, I've started a list of Educator's Blogs as a resource for any parents and educators who might like to see what technologies other schools are using... reading them you can even learn to twitter, blog, skype, and create a prezi!  My favorite, The Classroom Chronicles, is written by a teacher who taught her colleagues a new tech skill each week... then she shared all of her lessons on-line!  Amazing.  I can't wait to share that site at our opening faculty meeting!

A Toasty Warm Building...

Sweetsir Students who love trucks are in for a real treat this year!  Three building renovation projects will be taking place on-site this fall.  The oldest part of the building (first grade & preschool wings) will be getting new windows, a new roof and an improved heating ventilation system.  We are so fortunate our district applied for this Greens Project funding!  Although it may be inconvenient for a few months, we can look forward to a much warmer building and a roof that does not leak.

Yesterday, I met with the gentlemen who will be our construction site supervisor.   He has experience doing these types of projects while schools are in session.  He recommended we use two of our empty rooms as 'swing rooms'. This will allow two classes at a time to relocate for a few days when the windows are installed. The back of the building will be a staging area for the trucks and equipment.  This spot will allow easy access to the roof.  Equipment will be moved out of the way during arrival and dismissal time, and safety barriers will be placed on Jervey Loop during recess time.  The workers will have an outdoor Porto-potty and school bathrooms will be off limits.  Since the other four elementary schools are also having building projects take place, the contractors will have weekly meetings will school officials to discuss any concerns and provide progress updates.

I am planning to have a school-wide assembly at the beginning of the year to fill students in on what to expect.  I am confident the teaching staff will find creative ways to incorporate the renovation projects into a learning experience.  Right outside our doors, will be real life examples of careers that use math, science and engineering!