K-5 Writing Norming Meeting Purpose

As we jump into 2019, we are already beginning to look ahead at the writing norming meetings that will be happening later this Spring.  We wanted to share with you the purpose and intent of the meetings.  As you may remember from the fall, these days are focused on professional development and growth in our writing practices.  Along the way you will get most of your writing pieces scored as well. The focus of the day is to learn together, share writing progress, and find a common understanding of proficiency in writing.  As a district we rarely get to come together as a full grade level across all schools, so it is crucial that these days are used to develop common knowledge and practices of proficiency when we are all together and can hold common discussions around content. Please remember these meetings will focus on proficiency in writing through the process of scoring and sharing the writing pieces with each other.  We will continue the practice of scoring some of your own papers as well as taking time to score pieces from across the the schools.  This practice allows staff from each school to see the differences and similarities among our writers and continue to build a common definition of what proficiency in writing looks like at your grade level. We are excited to continue the proficiency conversation this Spring and are eager to have you all share your student writing with each other.   A more detailed blog with directions for the meetings will come out closer to the date of the meetings.  

Canvas 1:1 Feedback Session

If you've been using Canvas in any capacity, we'd love to hear from you.  As we look to wrap up one semester of using this tool, we'd like to hear the good and the bad you've seen as we consider what, if any, role this tool will have in Kaneland moving forward.

We'd invite any and all to come join us at Meredith Middle School on Thursday, 1/17 from 3-4 to share their thoughts.  While we'd prefer to have you join us in person, please also feel free to email any thoughts you have to Mike or Sarah. 

We are hoping to listen to you, talk to some of our students, and make a decision about the future of Canvas by February.

2019 Gallery Walk Reminder

Once again this year we will be hosting a gallery walk of the cool things going on around Kaneland for our stakeholders to come check out.  This year we've moved it prior to a joint KHMS/KHS concert to try to attract more people and give them something to do while they wait for the doors to open.  This year's date will be February 28th, and it will take place from 6:00-7:00.  If you are interested in sharing your story, please click this link and fill out the form by February 1st.  Below are a few more details about the event if you're thinking about coming to share (or observe!):

• As part of their IGKNIGHTER projects, all IGKNIGHTERs are expected to present
• There should be a clear connection to one of the three priorities of Kaneland 2020 (Personalized Learning, Culture, Human Resources)
• Those requesting to share are doing so on a volunteer basis
• Inclusion of students in the planning, preparation, and/or sharing is highly encouraged
• The gallery walk is conducted like a science fair--those presenting should plan to prepare a visual presentation with information and bring something like a handout for visitors
• Those who received a Foundation Grant are highly encouraged to attend and share
• Please be able to arrive prior to the event with enough time to set up your station

Please share your interest by February 1st.

If you have any questions about a possible presentation or would like to know more before submitting a request, please contact Mike or Sarah.

Looking for Professional Development Opportunities?

If you are looking to gain some insight on how Canvas can be used for learning as well as work towards in-district credit, remember these great opportunity for you this year. 

Grading Smarter Not Harder Book Club:  If you enjoyed the keynote in November from Myron Dueck, check out his book and gain 1.0 in district credit.  Complete the course on Canvas and request the book free of charge from the Educational Service Department.  It is a great way to consider grading practices and opportunities for students to own their learning.  Log on using the link below.  Once you have completed the course be sure to complete the course approval form for your credit to be applied.  

https://kaneland.instructure.com/enroll/KDW4Y7

LDIP Review:  Looking for a review on the learning continuum?  This Canvas module is for you.  Take a peak and check your knowledge and understanding of the different levels of learning.  Use the link below to review the LDIP. 

https://kaneland.instructure.com/enroll/AENY43

Personalized Learning 2.0-Green Discoveries:  If you are ready to further explore and apply your learning from Personalized Learning 2.0 in August, it is time to jump in to the Green Discoveries.  The review of the activities you completed in August are also posted for you to reflect on your work.  Remember for every 5 Green Discoveries you can receive 1.0 in-district credit.  Please be sure once you have completed 5 to contact Mike Rice and Sarah Mumm and complete your course approval form for credit.  

https://kaneland.instructure.com/enroll/4CFG49

Happy Learning!  

Can You Relate?

When coming back from break it is often overwhelming.  Jumping into the deep end of the semester and already thinking about next semester.  We thought we would share a bit of fun for you to let you know there is support out there for you.  We hope you enjoy this little video and reflect on the key questions afterwards....

1.  Are you needing a bit of a push right now? 
2.  Are you looking for new ways to work with students but just not finding the right path yet?
3.  Can you be the one who lends a push to a peer?

Registration for Kane County Day is Coming!

Once again Kaneland will be one of a few host sites for the March 1st Kane County Day.  This year there are many great sessions and a few updates to be aware of:

• Two of our host sites for Art Teachers, Fineline Creative Arts Center and Water Street Studios,  have their registration available at this time.  Please direct your Art Teachers to this website:https://kaneroe.org/institute-day/ to register to attend these sessions.  We will also have about 5 different Art Sessions available at Kaneland HS on March 1^st for teachers as well.

• Please note that Central HS will be hosting PE offerings to help offer a variety of sessions (ALMOST 30 DIFFERENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS JUST ON PE!!!)

• The remainder of our host sites will open at 12:01am on January 14^th. 
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• Kaneland will be hosting many great sessions including:  collaborative Inquiry by Jenni Donhoo, Personalized Learning by PJ Caposey, and Reading with Donalynn Miller!  Be sure to check out those sessions and session hosted by our own staff.  We are so proud of all sessions offered!

Remember spots fill up fast for these sessions.  Be sure to register early!  Starting next Monday.