The big winner of last week's trivia question is Stephanie Unger! A prize is on its way. We will be back in the new year with even more Kaneland Connects trivia!
Thursday, December 16, 2021
Wednesday, December 15, 2021
The Power of Student Voice
Thank you to Personalized Steering Committee members Kevin Hagan and Elsa Glover for capturing some powerful thoughts on the importance of hearing students' voices, from our own Kaneland students. Take a listen to what our students think here: Student Voice
Congratulations to the December Star Search Winner!
Congratulations to John Markovich, as the December Star Search winner!! John was nominated by Fran Eggleston for...
"John goes above and beyond for students, parents, and staff. He carries a very positive attitude which is highly appreciated by all who are lucky to work him. I am grateful that John is a Kaneland Knight!"
John was chosen at random, from among all December nominees, to receive a Box 'o Fun. Other amazing nominees included Kelly Gavin and Meghan Nesci. The names of ALL nominees will be displayed on the Wall of Fame at Meredith.
Kaneland Star Search will be back in the new year with awesome new Boxes O' Fun opportunities!
Monday, December 13, 2021
MTSS K-5 Steering Committee Update
On Monday the MTSS Steering Committee met with a K-5 work time to further the rollout plan for MTSS which is projected for next school year. The following are key information slides to review for further MTSS discussions coming up in January and February. Please note at the end of the roles and responsibilities slides is a Q and A google form to complete and submit your questions.
MTSS Foundational Knowledge Slides
Roles and Responsibilities Google Slides
Please note our current K-5 Steering Committee Members in case you have any questions:
Sarah Mumm
Jake Countryman
Sam Averesa
Fran Eggleston
Tressa Matuszewski
Rachael Wilson
Kathy Ronzio
Britt Mattern
Patty Griffith
Terra Pyfer
Rachael Walker
Anne Olsen
Stephanie Unger
Stacey Gacek
Mary Doranski
Suzanne Billman
Kristi Purnell
Nancy Meisenger
Nichole Kenyon
Jimmy Boyle
Chris Sears
Erin Eickman
Kara Christensen
Kelly Johnson
Kelli Scardamaglia
All About Our Knights
Let's take some time to share fun facts about our Knight Family. Did you figure out the answers from last week's submissions? Here they are for you.
1. Who has been to 48 of the 50 states? (Just missing Hawaii and Alaska) Magie Zurok
2. Who loves crafts, reading, camping, spending time with family? Julia Galvan
3. Who loves to swim and play water polo? Cassie Chambers
4. Who's second major is Spanish? Arlene Goodrich
We look forward to learning even more about each other in the new year!
MTSS Non-Negotiable Update
This week the MTSS K-12 Steering Committee met. The following are the updated non-negotiables as we implement MTSS structures next year. Please see the final revised non-negotiables.
MTSS will be flexible in nature, not only a scheduled course, nor only a scheduled cycle
MTSS includes integrated intervention of academics and behavior, not siloed independent intervention per content
MTSS identification of a need is initiated from a staff member who has instructed or supported the student or directly from a student themselves
MTSS procedures must include a data analysis and review process
MTSS structures include teachers, instructional coaches, student services, and behavior facilitators to support trend needs through tier one
MTSS includes at minimum an annual data review meeting to identify long term trends and professional development needs
MTSS is rooted in staff members, including classroom teachers, owning and analyzing data sources for student needs
MTSS supports and complements the progression of learning
MTSS intervention should be based on progress on proficiency-tables once established, or behavioral data established by a collaborative team
Sunday, December 12, 2021
K-5 Behavior Facilitators
We are excited about all the work and support that our new Behavior Facilitators have provided this Fall. We are excited for a bit more coaching to take place in the coming months. Please consider connecting with a Behavior Facilitator to set up a coaching cycle or conversation with a Facilitator. In order to continue to be responsive to student needs and overall classroom trends, support from EC-5 Behavior Facilitators will be shifting a bit now that the majority of prioritized lessons from Satchel have been delivered. The Behavior Facilitators will be using data from staff surveys and student surveys to identify overall trends and areas needing support for individual classrooms as well as grade levels.
Wednesday, December 8, 2021
Kaneland Connects Trivia
Big shout out to Jill Hardekoph for being last week's winner! A great prize is on the way to you! AWESOME JOB!
This week's trivia question is: In honor of the holiday season, which Kaneland Commitment is red and which is green on the Kaneland Graduate Profile image?
Email your answer to Laura Garland, 10166@kaneland.org to enter for a chance to win a prize! Good luck!
December Star Search
Wowza! There have been some phenomenal submissions of Kaneland Stars for the month of December! Please continue to nominate yourself or a deserving colleague HERE. One nominee will be chosen at random for what just may be the BEST Box o' Fun yet!
NIU STEAM Resources
Resources from the NIU STEAM program:
"We believe that STEAM is for everybody. You’re never too young or too old to learn something new and find your spark of inspiration. That’s why our educators are experts not only in their content areas – physics, writing, biology, math, engineering, meteorology, and video game design to name just a few – but also in the fine art of making learning fun. So whether you’re two, 102, or any age in between, we have events and programs to inspire, entertain and educate you."
You can find more information HERE.
Personalized Learning Vlog
Thank you to the Personalized Learning Steering Committee Relationship Subgroup member Anne Olsen, for her work in creating the second installment of relationship-focused vlog posts. Anne includes reflections from current Kaneland staff, relationship-building strategies, and an inspirational reminder from Rita Pierson about the importance of strong teacher-student relationships. You can watch the episode HERE.
Sunday, December 5, 2021
Mid Year PBP Data Summary
Thank you to all staff who shared the mid-year PBP exit slip with students during the afternoon classes. This was just informal SIP data collection to check how we are progressing with students being able to identify the I Can statement for the lesson and any feedback that is directly related to the reported standard. We are excited to share that the data is holding steady and progressing. Here are the two data points collected this mid-year.
K-5 Post Writing Guidelines Are Updated
Please note the District Post Writing Guidelines have now been updated. Please feel free to use the link below to access the logistics of the post informational writing assessment. If you have any questions at all please feel free to contact an Instructional Coach to support you in the post assessment process.
Writing Guidelines (Be sure to use the bookmark at the top of the first page to access the post assessment)
Stages of Innovation- Learning Forward Reflection
This week about 20 of our staff members were able to attend the international conference, Learning Forward. The conference was virtual again this year allowing for more Kaneland attendance. Over the next few blog post weeks we will have various staff members share learning from sessions they attended. The first post is about curriculum based professional learning. During the session tips were shared for many job categories on how to best engage in professional learning. If interested in seeing the recommendations for Coaches or Administration please contact Sarah Mumm. The following are suggestions for Teachers to prepare to engage in high quality professional learning.
K-5 Word Study Pilot Extension
Due to the unique nature of instruction and transitions back to full time learning this school year, we have decide to extend the Word Study pilot for K-5th grade until November 2022. The following will be the revised timeline for the pilot:
-Fully pilot Spring 2022 in order to get end of the year experience with the tools
-Fully pilot the start of the school year Fall 2022
-The pilot teachers will convene in November 2022 to collect feedback and make determination of tools to purchase and implement
-Final decsion in December 2022
-Purchase of materials and provide Professional Development Spring 2023
The expectations for pilot teachers include:
-Fully utilize all pilot materials for the remainder of this school year and Fall 2022
-Pilot teachers may not partially use materials and use other tools, we need full trial of tools to make decisions in the Fall
-Pilot teachers will be the only members of the final decsion committee
If you are piloting you have two options moving forward (please email Sarah Mumm to confirm your choice):
1. No longer want to pilot and understand you will not be part of the decsion making team. You may pack up the materials and return them at this time to Sarah Mumm at Meredith School.
2. Continue to pilot for this Spring and extend to Fall
If you were unable to pilot this year, but now with the extension are interested in pilting, please contact Sarah Mumm.
Wednesday, December 1, 2021
Kind Words from Monica Genta
Monica Genta has stayed true to her roots by sending us an "AWESOME" care package. Take a look at what we received. We're excited to share some of the "old man candy" when you are out at Meredith.
December Star Search
Tuesday, November 30, 2021
Last Chance for Feedback on SBG Implementation
You are invited to participate in a research study for in-service teachers entitled “Implementation of Standards-Based Grading in Kaneland Public Schools” being conducted by Todd Reeves and Olha Ketsman, faculty members at Northern Illinois University. The purpose of this survey is to assess your implementation of standards-based grading in Kaneland Public Schools.
Kaneland and NIU are conducting a research on the SBG implementation process. The survey open to staff from NIU will close December 3rd.
The study will involve completion of an online survey about your implementation of standards-based grading; factors that might be related to your implementation of standards-based grading; and your demographic and professional characteristics.
The online survey should take about 15 minutes to complete. The information you individually provide will be anonymous. We would be grateful if you would participate in our study.
No compensation will be provided for participation in this study.
The survey and more information about the study can be accessed here. Or you can paste the following link into your Internet browser: https://niu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_26utDYJPBHPyK7I
**The survey is best completed on a personal computer (e.g., laptop or desktop computer), rather than a mobile/cell phone**
Thank you in advance for your participation.
Sincerely,
Todd Reeves, Ph.D, Educational Technology, Research and Assessment, Northern Illinois University, 815-753-9427
Olha Ketsman, Ph.D, Educational Technology, Research and Assessment, Northern Illinois University, 815-753-9687
K-5 PBP Table Work Updates
A HUGE kudos to all K-5 staff who dedicated time to the conversation, updates, drafting, and revising of tables. The Tuesday sessions were amazing conversations and collaboration to kick off our work for the school year. Thank you for your dedication to updating the work progress and setting the net steps for our meetings in February. The February sessions will be held on a variety of days, as full days at Meredith from 9:30-3:30. Please be sure to enter your sub into AESOP if you are a rep listed on the link below for your sub day. Note this day in AESOP as an in district meeting. All staff please review the next steps plan for your grade level and assist in preparing the the materials and information needed for the February sessions.
IgKnight Feedback Data
WOW! What a great week of learning last week! We would like to share a few initial feedback data points from the IgKnight Conference last week. Thank you for attending and sharing in a great week!
Kudos to our 71 presenters
439 Attendees, 237 gave feedback in Sched
Average Feedback Rating in Sched 9.2
Highest rated sessions include SEL, Retirement, Guided Reading
272 Responses to Monica Genta Survey- Between 213 staff rated the presenter a 4
Kudos to a great focus during the two days of learning and PD
All About Our Knights
Let's take some time to share fun facts about our Knight Family. Did you figure out the answers from last week's submissions? Here they are for you.
1. Who shares their name with another in the district, and loves the Cubs, dogs, and being a band mom? Julie Bradbury
2. Whose children are fifth generation Kaneland students and her husband’s family has been in the Kaneland district since the 1800s? Christin Baldridge
3. Who grew up in a small town in Nebraska? Patty Griffith
4. Who has bungee jumped several times? Kelli Scardamaglia
Try your hand at these fun facts about your peers, can you guess who?
1. Who has been to 48 of the 50 states? (Just missing Hawaii and Alaska)
2. Who loves crafts, reading, camping, spending time with family?
3. Who loves to swim and play water polo?
4. Who's second major is Spanish?
Hints to help you match this week:
Julia Galvan- KBK
Cassie Chambers- KSS
Arlene Goodrich- KST
Maggie Zurko- KBK
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Kaneland Connects Trivia
A shout out to Sue Poterek for being the winner to our Relentless trivia! A great prize is on the way to you! AWESOME JOB!
This week's trivia question is: Share three key concepts that were shared by either of our keynote speakers at IgKnight!
Email Patrick Raleigh 11509@kaneland.org to enter for a chance to win a prize! Good luck!
District Secret Supporter Second Semester
We were so excited to have 82 staff members participating in the District Secret Supporter this first semester. Please remember to send a little gift of support to your assigned teacher each quarter. If you did NOT sign up this fall but now want to take part in the process, please feel free to sign up today using the link below. We will match up any new staff members for second semester by holiday break. Thank you for taking the time to support each other!
Monday, November 15, 2021
Kaneland Connects Trivia
A shout out to Jessica Bloomquist for being the winner to our Feedback cycle trivia! A great prize is on the way to you! AWESOME JOB!
This week's trivia question is: Name the book that our keynote speaker at the IgKnight Conference has authored!
Email Sarah Mumm at 10358@kaneland.org to enter for a chance to win a prize! Good luck!
All About Our Knights
Let's take some time to share fun facts about our Knight Family. Did you figure out the answers from last week's submissions? Here they are for you.
1. Who has 5 children, 4 boys and 1 girl? Terra Pyfer
2. Who has deadlifted 300 pounds? Amanda Nelson
3. Who knows how to drive a forklift and a small train? Annie Cantrell
4. Who is related to the original Colonel Sanders? Dan Rutter
Try your hand at these fun facts about your peers, can you guess who?
1. Who shares their name with another in the district, and loves the Cubs, dogs, and being a band mom?
2. Whose children are fifth generation Kaneland students and her husband’s family has been in the Kaneland district since the 1800s?
3. Who grew up in a small town in Nebraska?
4. Who has bungee jumped several times?
Hints to help you match this week:
Christine Baldridge- KBK
Patty Griffith- KST
Julie Bradbury-KBK
Kelli Scardamaglia- KSS
NIU and Kaneland SBG Research
You are invited to participate in a research study for in-service teachers entitled “Implementation of Standards-Based Grading in Kaneland Public Schools” being conducted by Todd Reeves and Olha Ketsman, faculty members at Northern Illinois University. The purpose of this survey is to assess your implementation of standards-based grading in Kaneland Public Schools.
The study will involve completion of an online survey about your implementation of standards-based grading; factors that might be related to your implementation of standards-based grading; and your demographic and professional characteristics.
The online survey should take about 15 minutes to complete. The information you individually provide will be anonymous. We would be grateful if you would participate in our study.
No compensation will be provided for participation in this study.
The survey and more information about the study can be accessed here. Or you can paste the following link into your Internet browser: https://niu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_26utDYJPBHPyK7I
**The survey is best completed on a personal computer (e.g., laptop or desktop computer), rather than a mobile/cell phone**
Thank you in advance for your participation.
Sincerely,
Todd Reeves, Ph.D, Educational Technology, Research and Assessment, Northern Illinois University, 815-753-9427
Olha Ketsman, Ph.D, Educational Technology, Research and Assessment, Northern Illinois University, 815-753-9687
SAMR Review
Over the course of the year we are growing our knowledge in SAMR and the use of technology in our learning experiences. We encourage all staff to review the visuals and consider how to use technology to redefine or modify the learning. Knowing, understating and reflecting on SAMR levels is part of our Kaneland Connects 1:1 goals this year.
Blocked Programs for Our District
Please know that Quizlet and Epic is blocked by our district. We understand that this is a popular application that has been used in the past. However, with the new SOPPA law, Quizlet is one of a few applications that do not sign a Digital Privacy Agreement (DPA) and using their applications and sites leaves our staff and students open to breaches of privacy. The company openly shares digital information with several 3rd party companies.
Please remember as an FYI, if using a website that is not approved in LEARN with a DPA, the person promoting the use of the application/site assumes responsibility for breach of privacy. We strongly encourage you to check out LEARN if you have questions on an app/site's status.
IgKnight Reminder
We are excited for the IgKnight Conference to be less than a week away! We wanted to remind staff to be present in the auditorium at 8:10am for the keynote speaker, Hamish Brewer. We will be seating every other seat in the auditorium with overflow seating in the cafeteria once the auditorium is filled. If you would like to make sure you have a seat in the auditorium, please arrive a bit early.
Prior to the start of the keynote, all staff must enter the cafeteria and sign in. All certified staff will need to know thier IEIN number for sign in to log clock hours. All staff will need to sign out at the conclusion of the day all staff will need to sign out at the main entrance foyer near the east gym. A link will be sent to all staff that will provide the clock hour forms needed for certified staff.
At the conclusion of the keynote, we will begin the breakout sessions all throughout the high school. Please be sure to follow the steps below and bring your schedule with you on Monday.
Steps:
1. Log into your SCHED account
2. Enter IgKnight Event Page
3. Select your Event Profile Page
4. Click the tab to the right of your profile picture or circle that says "Print" or "Email My Sched"
5. Be sure to bring your personal copy of your schedule to the event on November 22nd. We will not be providing individual schedules at the event.
Please note that you can also download SCHED to your phone and access your schedule through your phone on that day.
If you have not registered by this time, you will be assigned a schedule. Please stop by the Educational Service table in the foyer of the auditorium directly following the keynote presentation.
Breakout session start times include: 9:45, 10:45, 1:00, 2:00. Lunch will take place from 11:35-1:00pm. No lunch is served on site, so make plans to bring lunch or travel and return by the 1:00 start time. Evaluation of the sessions will take place at 2:50. We look forward to a great day of learning!
Friday, November 12, 2021
Quizlet is Blocked
Hi All-
Please know that Quizlet is blocked by our district. We understand that this is a popular application that has been used in the past. However, with the new SOPPA law, Quizlet is one of a few applications that do not sign a Digital Privacy Agreement (DPA) and using their applications and sites leaves our staff and students open to breaches of privacy. The company openly shares digital information with several 3rd party companies.
Please remember as an FYI, if using a website that is not approved in LEARN with a DPA, the person promoting the use of the application/site assumes responsibility for breach of privacy. We strongly encourage you to check out LEARN if you have questions on an app/site's status.
Wednesday, November 10, 2021
October Star Search Winner Revealed!
Congratulations to Kari Pitstick, as the October Star Search Winner!! Kari was nominated by Kerri Jass for...
"Kari has been ahead of the game on using standards and proficiency tables for the last couple of years. She does a great job of helping her students understand and reflect on where they are with regard to each of her ELA standards. She has also helped me learn how to do this better! She's just awesome!"
Kari was chosen at random, from among 11 October nominees, to receive a Box 'o Fun. Other amazing nominees included Liz Orman, Courtney Ward, Josh Maurice, Beth Sterkel, Renee Kuryliw, Mary Albrecht, Matt Cyerk, Melanie Chambers, Shannon Shanahan, and Rachael Hall.
The names of ALL nominees will be displayed on the Wall of Fame at Meredith.
Please consider nominating a staff member for the November Star Search drawing. Nominate HERE!!
Personalized Learning Vlog: Episode 5
Thank you to the Personalized Learning Steering Committee Relationship Subgroup members Kate Atkins and Zack Munro for their work in creating this first installment of relationship-focused vlog posts.
Kate and Zach were introduced to the concept of grading conferences in 2018 by Katelynn Giordano. They have since put their own spin on conferences, which now include weekly feedback Fridays; this small addition has helped end-of-quarter grading conferences run more smoothly and students are now able to take ownership of their learning weekly while meeting with their teacher(s). They have found that building relationships helps to IgKnight the Connection so our students feel safe and supported!
--Tuesday, November 9, 2021
Kaneland Care Closet Needs
As we head into winter, our Kaneland Care Closet could use a few donated items. The Care Closet services all Kaneland students to meet the needs they request if possible to provide food, personal care, and clothing items. If you are able and wanting to donate please use this link: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2GCUF6LFHPBIV?ref_=wl_share
Monday, November 8, 2021
Be Relentless!
We are thrilled to be just a few weeks away from hosting Hamish Brewer to Kaneland. He is the author of Relentless and currently a Middle School Principal. He is known as the Tattooed Skateboarding Principal. In order to get your mind thinking and ready for our keynote session on November 22nd, here are a few quotes from the Relentless book:
-There are no guarantees for tomorrow in life, so live with no regrets!
-You can't serve someone you think are you better than!
-If we make love the center of our school, we will win every time because love turns us into a family.
-Your effort has to match the dream, and dreams do not come true without a plan.
-When you know the curriculum, understand your students' needs, and know their starting point, you can begin to build a bridge that closes the achievement gap.
LAST Chance to Register for IgKnight!
Registration for IgKnight will close on Sched this Thursday at 7:30AM. This is your last chance to register or change sessions. After this date, Educational Service Department will assign you to any open sessions that you are not registered for. We look forward to a great day of learning and engagement on November 22nd! Please log on today and make any last second changes using this link.
Kaneland Connects Trivia
A shout out to Beth Sterkel for being the winner to our Co-teaching and MTSS trivia from last week! A great prize is on the way to you! AWESOME JOB!
This week's trivia question is: What are the two members that take part in the feedback cycle? Be specific to the language shared at Personalized Learning 2.75 part one!
Email Sarah Mumm at 10358@kaneland.org to enter for a chance to win a prize! Good luck!
All About Our Knights
Let's take some time to share fun facts about our Knight Family. Did you figure out the answers from last week's submissions? Here they are for you.
1. Whose former jobs include raft-guide, massage therapist, and piano teacher? Taylor Knoepke
2. Who owns over 400 board games? Rachael Walker
3. Who was a serious skier at one time? Jake Rainer
4. Whose favorite thing to do is hang by the pool? Britt Mattern
Try your hand at these fun facts about your peers, can you guess who?
1. Who has 5 children, 4 boys and 1 girl?
2. Who has deadlifted 300 pounds?
3. Who knows how to drive a forklift and a small train?
4. Who is related to the original Colonel Sanders?
Hints to help you match this week:
Amanda Nelson- KBK
Annie Cantrell- KST
Dan Rutter- KST
Terra Pyfer- KST
Tuesday, November 2, 2021
Kaneland Connects Trivia
A HUGE shout out to Jason Lim from HMS! He was the top winner for the Halloween costume connection to Kaneland Connects. Jason submitted an amazing picture and connection from a character from Squid Games to our strategic plan! A great prize basket is on the way to you! AWESOME JOB!
This week's trivia question is: Which commitment encompasses the roles of co-teaching?
Email Sarah Mumm at 10358@kaneland.org to enter for a chance to win a prize! Good luck!
Monthly Todd Talks
Please see this month's Todd Talks about Social Emotional Learning. Be sure to check out past episodes using the Todd Talks link on the Kaneland website under Kaneland Connects.
All About Our Knights
Let's take some time to share fun facts about our Knight Family. Did you figure out the answers from last week's submissions? Here they are for you.
1. Who is over 6 feet tall but did not play basketball? Aly Luse
2. Who is a triplet? McKenna Fiebelkorn
3. Who would love to build my own greenhouse and grow all kinds of beautiful plants? Stephanie Thatcher
4. Who grew up in Canada? Cindy Babich
Try your hand at these fun facts about your peers, can you guess who?
1. Whose former jobs include raft-guide, massage therapist, and piano teacher?
2. Who owns over 400 board games?
3. Who was a serious skier at one time?
4. Whose favorite thing to do is hang by the pool?
Hints to help you match this week:
Jake Rainer- KBK
Rachael Walker- KSS and KST
Britt Mattern- KME
Taylor Knoepke- KST
Personalized Learning Vlog: Episode 4
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
Personalized Learning Steering Committee Joint Statement
The Personalized Learning Steering Committee met on Thursday, October 21st. The team shared and celebrated several great examples of personalized learning in action from Kaneland schools. An update of progress since our last meeting was provided and included:
- Members of the Steering Committee presented to the Board on 10-13 and received positive feedback from members.
- Initial IgKnight Academy planning meetings with Directors of Buildings and Grounds, Technology, Transportation, and Food Service have taken place
- Collaboration with Kaneland Foundation's Becky Greenlee continues, for the purpose of identifying and applying for grant funding.
- Institute for Personalized Learning is re-opening for SiteVisits and Youth Advisory Board opportunities.
The team spent time in the 5 identified sub-committees furthering identified tasks such as revamping the Learner Profile, creating community and staff Vlog and KCN communications, drafting IgKnight Academy student and staff profiles, vetting IgKnight Academy potential school day structures, finalizing a personalized learning audit tool for use in all schools, and reviewing flexible seating options.
The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, December 16th from 4-6pm at Meredith.
Star Search
The October Star Search nomination window closes this Friday, October 29th. Please consider nominating a staff member who shines in ensuring high degrees of clarity in learning through the use of I Can statements, feedback cycles, proficiency tables, or any other means!
Nominate HERE!!
Masked Reader Has Begun
Over the course of the next two months, each elementary school will unleash a series of Masked Readers. This program is part of the Four Schools, One Book program that will be launching on January 6th. The Masked Readers will be sharing key quotes for the secret title of the community read. Be sure to check out the Masked Readers for your school and take your bets guess who is under the mask! Can you guess who the Snowman, Knight and other characters are? Can you guess what the book title for Four Schools, One Book will be? Good luck! Please be sure to promote the school links below to our students and families!
Here are the school Masked Reader links:
https://kbk.kaneland.org/four-schools
https://kme.kaneland.org/four-schools
Monday, October 25, 2021
Kaneland Connects Contest
We have been so excited and inspired with all the staff that have submitted trivia responses to our Connects trivia the past month. We wanted to offer an exciting competition this week! In the spirit of the Halloween weekend, we would encourage every staff member to email (10358@kaneland.org) or text (630-742-3560) a picture to Sarah Mumm sharing your best Halloween costume and how it links to one of the 5 commitment areas. Be as creative as you wish with your connections. We will then have anyone who comes to Meredith for meetings in the next two weeks, vote on the very best costume and connection. We will announce the winners in two weeks. Let's have some fun and connect and commit to Kaneland Connects!
Congrats to Tiffany Reuter at KME for winning last week's trivia! Your prize is on the way!
Let's take some time to share fun facts about our Knight Family. Did you figure out the answers from last week's submissions? Here they are for you.
1. Although math gave her the most anxiety when she was young, she loves teaching math and word problems now? Stephanie Ortegal
2. Who knows how many licks it takes to get to the tootsie roll center of a tootsie pop and has a certificate from them too? Stephanie Unger
3. Who experienced an emergency landing in a hot air balloon in someone's front yard? Gail Payton
4. Who as an adult has lived in 6 states and choose to leave California for family in Illinois?Nancy Meisenger
Try your hand at these fun facts about your peers, can you guess who?
1. Who is over 6 feet tall but did not play basketball?
2. Who is a triplet?
3. Who would love to build my own greenhouse and grow all kinds of beautiful plants?
4. Who grew up in Canada?
Hints to help you match this week:
McKenna Fiebelkorn- KSS
Stephanie Thatcher- KSS
Cindy Babich- KBK
Aly Luse- KSS
Think Differently
This week I began reading a new professional book, think differently and a few things really stuck out to me. Take a moment to reflect on the following quotes from the author. I hope some resonate with you and bring some clarity to teaching.
-Sometimes educators try to offer fixes for student situations when our role should be to do the following instead:
1. Empathize, not solve
2. Propose, not expect
3. Offer, not demand
4. Ask, not tell
5. Listen, not talk
6. Show kindness, not just politeness
-By learning the finesse of appreciation, we disrupt our traditional thinking patterns to immerse ourselves into the opportunities to think differently
-In reality, there is no one means of engagement that will be optimal for all learners and contexts. We want to value ourselves and the learners.
-Resilience and hope- the social neuroscience that we all need to spark the drive for the new learning- comes from the emotional part of the brain.
Behavior Facilitator Newsletter
Please enjoy the latest and greatest Kaneland Behavior Facilitator Newsletter! Happy reading!
Friday, October 22, 2021
Kaneland Behavior Facilitator Newsletter
Please enjoy the latest and greatest Kaneland Behavior Facilitator Newsletter! Happy reading!
Wednesday, October 20, 2021
Personalized Learning Vlog: Episode 3
The following links are to the articles referenced in the Vlog.
5 Ways to Support Kids Who Struggle with Student-Directed Learning
Tell Me About a Personalized Learning Challenge
Tuesday, October 19, 2021
Kaneland Connects Trivia
Kudos to Tracy Krupka for winning the Kaneland Connects trivia raffle answer!
Tracy, your prize is on the way!This week's trivia question is a True or False one.....Is the following statement true or false?
All proficiency tables are required to be completed by the end of this school year.
Email Laura Garland at 10166@kaneland.org with the correct answer!
Email Laura Garland at 10166@kaneland.org with the correct answer!
What is WIN Time for Staff
This November 22nd all staff will have the time to select WIN (What I Need) time as one of the session at IgKnight. The intent of this time is to have staff reflect and select a personal or professional choice in order to best balance your needs as a professional. WIN (What I Need) time is an established time for staff to self-reflect on the personal and professional needs that would further progress their preparedness for learning and socialization. Please note the IgKnight sessions will be held on the KHS campus and not within all schools. We look forward to many great sessions coming up at IgKnight!
9-12 Leadership/Ed Services Joint Statement
Ed Services met with the high school leadership team on October 12th to discuss various topics that have arisen over the last few months. Topics included:
-Standards-based grading
-Curriculum Standards to be implemented over the next months/by next year. The most impactful at this time will be the National Sexual Education standards which take effect next school year. We will put together a team in January to process anything we may need to change based on the ROE requirements.
-Quizlet guidelines. At this time, it is not advised to use the Quizlet platform. There is great liability that comes with using this application, as we do not have a Digital Privacy Agreement (DPA).
-As a component of our principal search, the leadership team will be meeting with Dr. Leden, Dr. Adkins, and Ed Services to gather feedback to identify some of the needs of the building. Staff will have an opportunity to provide feedback via a survey in the Winter.
Our next meeting will be on November 9th for our focus group.
What is WIN Time- EC-5 Student WIN Time
Over the course of this year we have discussed WIN (What I Need Time). In order to further have common language and foundational knowledge of what WIN time, below are the definitions and examples of what it is and is not. Over the course of this year we will further develop common language and practices.
WIN (What I Need) time is an established time for students to self-reflect on the personal and academic needs that would further progress their learning and socialization. During the WIN time students may select an activity, propose an activity or be asked to meet in a small group or with the Teacher. WIN time should be focused on the ability to co-construct feedback that provides the students with options to what they need to further progress in their learning.
What it is:
All hands on deck approach
Remedial math/reading interventions
Enrichment groups
SEL groups/supports
Student leadership opportunities
Student interest groups
Content specific groups
What It is not:
Silent reading time
Free time for students and staff
Interventionists only providing supports
Tier 2 and 3 student focus only
6-8 EAC Joint Statement
The Harter EAC Committee met on October 14th to discuss the following topics. If you have any specific questions, please feel free to reach out to any of the 6-8 EAC members.
1. Discussed ideas for e-learning in regards to cold weather/snow days. Feedback shared was teachers would like time to plan effective lessons before live streaming with students. E-learning requires ROE and Board of Education approval. We are in the process of creating this plan.
2. Curriculum Objection forms and New Standards. The team discussed what to do if a parent reaches out with an objection to what is being taught in the classroom. Should you experience this, please share with Educational Services.
3. SBG and the Board presentation. We discussed more in-depth the expectations for the year. These thoughts were captured in the videos shared in the Curriculum Connections blog last week
4. Brainstormed ideas on how to continue to boost the morale at the building.
Our next meeting will be held on November 11th at 2:50. If you have any topics you would like to discuss please share with your EAC members.
IgKnight Conference Sessions Filling Up
Thank you to the 375 staff members who signed up in one week for the IgKnight Conference on November 22nd. Please remember every staff member needs to select their own sessions in the next week or your schedule will be created for you. We have a handful of session filling up, so use the link below to register this week!
KEA and Administration Initiatives Meeting Follow Up
Thank you to all KEA reps and Administration for coming to the annual Fall initiatives meeting. The team engaged in sharing and problem solving. A few follow up items from the meeting were: 1) videos sharing the expectations for PBP (sent last week in the blog), 2) cancelling the EC-5 PBP sub days in October and kicking off the work on November 23rd, 3) sharing the grid below with clarity in the Kaneland Connects plan. Please let us know any questions you may have.
All About Our Knights
Let's take some time to share fun facts about our Knight Family. Did you figure out the answers from last week's submissions? Here they are for you.
1. Who completed the Chicago marathon twice? Bob Barth
2. Who I almost delivered her daughter on the side of the road in an ambulance? Jessica Dixon
3. Who grew up on a farm? Stephanie Piper
4. Who was born on Valentine's Day? Mary Knepp
Try your hand at these fun facts about your peers, can you guess who?
1. Although math gave her the most anxiety when she was young, she loves teaching math and word problems now?
2. Who knows how many licks it takes to get to the tootsie roll center of a tootsie pop and has a certificate from them too?
3. Who experienced an emergency landing in a hot air balloon in someone's front yard?
4. Who as an adult has lived in 6 states and choose to leave California for family in Illinois?
Hints to help you match this week:
Stephanie Unger- KBK
Gail Payton- KSS
Nancy Meisenger- KSS
Stephanie Ortegal- KBK
EAC EC-5 Committee Update
Today the Educator Advisory Council met for their monthly meeting. The following topics were discussed:
The team took time to trick or treat. Everyone needs a bit of fun, food and relaxation!
The team took time to discuss the final goal/month placement for the year. The following are the goals per month.
Committee Goals and Discussions by Month
The team discussed a follow up for the new Sex Ed Standards. As of right now we only have 6 staff members in the subgroup that will work on the standards on November 23rd from 9:30-11:30. If interested in being part of the committee on the SIP day, please email any EAC chair or Educational Service Department.
The district will provide all staff talking points for parent conferences regarding the new Sex Ed standards. The talking points can be shared during conferences. This year there is no expectation for implementing the new standards. The district is just under review.
The team took time to review and make suggestions for passive live streaming and full remote learning if needed. The feedback will be taken to respective next step groups on EAC’s behalf.
The team reviewed the solar curriculum free resources materials samples from Trane. These are free module materials from the company that installed our solar panels in the district. Based on feedback we will request full modules for staff to further dive into.
The team will meet next on November 22nd at 2:50 to 4:00
Have a fabulous month!
Wednesday, October 13, 2021
IgKnight 2021 Registration is LIVE!!!
It's that time of year! The link to register for IgKnight 2021 is open and ready for session selection! Please use THIS LINK to open Sched and begin choosing your sessions. Our focus this year is on the 5 commitments of Kaneland Connects, and we will be hosting Hamish Brewer, author of Relentless, as our keynote speaker.
Please know that due to COVID-19, space is limited in sessions. Please make your selections as soon as possible!
We are looking forward to a great day of learning!
Proficiency Table Expectations 6-12
Hi All-
Based off of feedback from our KEA Meeting, please see the video below for information and expectations for our proficiency table writing and vetting. Our expectation is to work towards completion of the tables when possible, with vetting happening upon completion if you are able. However, please know that with everything going on, vetting may need to take place next year.
Proficiency Table Expectations for EC-5
At the most recent KEA initiatives meeting, it was suggested we share an update to the PBP table completion expectations for this school year. Please see the following video to hear more about it! I am more than happy to meet with any teams and come out and visit to answer any questions at all. Please contact me.
Kaneland Connects Trivia
Kudos to Jason Lim for the winning the Kaneland Connects trivia raffle answer!
Jason your prize is on the way!This week's trivia question is: Name three different ways a staff member can complete Personalized Learning 2.75 on Feedback.
Email Patrick Raleigh at 11509@kaneland.org with the correct answer!
All About Our Knights
Let's take some time to share fun facts about our Knight Family. Did you figure out the answers from last week's submissions? Here they are for you.
1. Who has the unique talent of being able to lick their elbow? Kaitlin ImHof- KST
2. Who loves storms? Kathy Kerry- KST
3. Who has worked hard to be debt free? Tom Leneau- HMS
4. Who ran a marathon, completed a biathlon, and completed a triathlon? Mary Doranski- KBK
Try your hand at these fun facts about your peers, can you guess who?
1. Who completed the Chicago marathon twice?
2. Who I almost delivered her daughter on the side of the road in an ambulance?
3. Who grew up on a farm?
4. Who was born on Valentine's Day?
Hints to help you match this week:
Mary Knepp- KSS
Jessica Dixon- KSS
Stephanie Piper- KSS
Bob Barth- KBK
SEL Tools
This week our Behavior Facilitator found amazing tool for resources and ideas to support students and staff in SEL progression. Please take a moment to check it out.
https://sites.google.com/scred.k12.mn.us/scredsel/educators/be-good-people-curriculum
Thursday, October 7, 2021
September Star Search Winner Announced!
Congratulations to Kendall Lawson, as the September Star Search Winner!! Kendall was nominated by Mike Livorsi for...
"Kendall is the type of person and teacher that kids respect and want to do well for. She can connect with kids that many other teachers have given up on, and she makes it seem effortless. She is genuine in her dealings with the students, and they all can tell. Additionally, she is a driving force in motivating students who struggle, even after they have moved on to high school and beyond. Kids look forward to seeing her and telling her all of their joys. She is absolutely incredible in getting kids to open up, reflect, and try their best. This world NEEDS more people like her!"
Kendall was chosen at random, from among 14 September nominees, to receive a September Box 'o Fun. Other amazing staff nominees included Julie McCombs, Lisa Campise, Mallory Sunday, Jillian Yaggie, Martne McCoy, Lauren Banbury, Tiffany Reuter, Kelly Gavin, Kim Reese, Nicole Dyche, Mary Scholl, Stephanie Unger, Alex Turk and Liz Orman.
A belated congratulations to all the August nominees, including Sean Herron, Kendall Lawson, Mary Scholl, Sara Conley, Kaitlin ImHof, Kelly DeGaetano, Karen Franz, Anna Bolger, Jimmy Boyle. As you may recall, Sara Conley was the winner chosen at random for the August Box 'o Fun.
The names of ALL nominees will be displayed on the Wall of Fame at Meredith.
Please consider nominating a staff member for the October Star Search drawing. The October theme is teacher and student clarity. Be sure to shout out anyone who works to ensure high degrees of clarity in learning through the use of I Can statements, feedback cycles, proficiency tables, or any other means.
Nominate HERE!!
Monday, October 4, 2021
All About Our Knights
Let's take some time to share fun facts about our Knight Family. Did you figure out the answers from last week's submissions? Here they are for you.
1. Who hated reading as a child but loves browsing the bookstores now? Katie Reilley
2. Who has been skydiving? Kristin Schroeder
3. Who does not drink but met their husband at the pub? Morgan Padalik
4. Who taught English in Taiwan? Kara Christensen
Try your hand at these fun facts about your peers, can you guess who?
1. Who has the unique talent of being able to lick their elbow?
2. Who loves storms?
3. Who has worked hard to be debt free?
4. Who ran a marathon, completed a biathlon, and completed a triathlon?
Hints to help you match this week:
Tom Leneau- HMS
Kathy Kerry- KST
Mary Doranski- KBK
Kaitlin ImHof- KST
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