Week of Oct 17 to Oct 24 - INSPIRING A Commitment To No Excuses

Word On The Street

Advisory: CSI

The professional development part of A:CSI is team determined.  If you haven't done so already, please consider the literacy, math, or other support your team needs in order to close the achievement and/or opportunity gap for our students. 

Staffing Updates

Thanks for your patience...almost ready to submit recommendations to HR.

Parent/Teacher Conferencing

Please let Rebecca or Lisa know if you want us to be present for any conferences.  As you prepare your message and information, remember most parents want to know three things:

1. that you like their child
2. that you believe in their child's potential, and
3. that their child is valued and worthy of friendships

It's easy to share the good news of success when students are on a positive learning curve.  Perhaps the hardest message to deliver is the one where a student struggles to make progress.  As you share your concerns, remember that:

• parents love their kids and want them to succeed - start with the common ground of strengths
• it's human nature for parents to defend their kids - stay calm, breathe, and assure them you like their child
• most parents want to partner with you to help their child - smile, listen, share relevant data and a plan for improving skills

Watch DOGS

Last week's DOGS had a dog-gone-good-time!  Thanks to you!  One dad told me last week "I didn't know school was like this now..." referring to our orderly, friendly, welcoming, and safe environment.  Well done, Highlanders! 

See your email and the sidebar for this week's WDs...and if you need DOGS, let Colleen know.

PTA Membership & Events

• Harvest Festival - this Friday - everyone is welcome!  It's a great way to connect with that parent or guardian that is tough to reach...
• Membership Drive - last year 100% of our staff joined PTA. Let's do it again! Membership dues this year are $10 for staff. Watch your box for a membership envelope.  
• VIP Fundraiser Cards - This card is similar to the Entertainment Books, however, the savings can be used over and over again throughout the country! Cards are $20 and $10 of every card sold goes back to PTA to support students, teachers, and the community. Check out this link for more information: The VIP Card

Every Monday Matters

Interest vs. Commitment - I am INSPIRED on a daily basis because of the commitment I see in each of you. There's no dabbling in this business!  One will surely fail if there's a mere interest in learning...Our business is   L-E-A-R-N-I-N-G - and learning at high levels and with deep understanding.  The way you build relationships with your students and their families allows you to go full steam ahead despite the obstacles and with less than ideal circumstances.  That is COMMITMENT in motion, and it moves your students toward the results you want! 

Have a No Excuses Excellent Week, Highlanders! 

~ Rebecca