Wishing Kaneland Educators a Joyous Holiday Season! (EC-12)

 As we approach the holiday season, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. Your hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our students inspire us every single day. Because of you, classrooms across our schools are places of discovery, creativity, and hope. Thank you for the countless hours you dedicate to lesson planning, mentoring, and building relationships that go far beyond the walls of your classrooms.

During this holiday season, we hope you take time to rest, recharge, and celebrate the joy of the season with your loved ones. You deserve every moment of peace and happiness that comes your way.

As we look forward to the new year, we are excited about the continued learning and success that lies ahead. Together, we will keep making a difference in the lives of our students and in the future of our community.

Happy holidays and a wonderful new year!

ROE Compliance Documents (EC-12)

 After the new year Kaneland will be going through its annual ROE Compliance review.  This is a time to review policy and curriculum tools that the State of Illinois mandates.  The district will be asking for sample lessons that show evidence of the units of study.  If you have samples that support any of the units of study being taught in your classroom please title them and post them to this google drive for easy access for the team to share with the reviewers.  This will minimize the Department of Educational Service asking staff to share and find documents after the new year.  Thank you in advance for any samples you can post into this folder.  Your work is very appreciated! 

K-5 Curriculum Chat (K-5)

 This week the Curriculum Chats focused on Technology!  The running agenda captured some of the notes of the discussion.  

Running Curriculum Chat Agenda  

This week's discussion with the Technology staff that were able to attend, the sessions are voluntary and was captured here in this video.  

The next Curriculum Chat will be held on January 8th with Social Work staff.  Please remember these are optional events for staff.  Here is the recurring link.  

EAC K-5 Summary (K-5)

 This month EAC K-5 met virtually last week.  The following were topics EAC members collected feedback on:

-Thank you to Sarah M.  for taking notes for the virtual session.

-Final review of KPASS drafted surveys.  The surveys will go live to multiple stakeholders in January.

-A review the survey of options for PD for new curriculum tools that are adopted. Please be sure you shared your feedback with your EAC rep. EAC reps please send the completed forms to your EAC chairs.

-Reflection on writing data, scoring, mini-team norming and progress in writing in all areas. Be sure to add your feedback in the notes sheet on the agenda.

For our January meeting be the EAC will be prepared to discuss the following:

1. Share first trimester feedback on voices heard and reflect on our EAC practices for next year and the remaining portion of the year based on EAC feedback.

2. Structures of Parent Teacher Conferences

1. Share ideas for how to manage connecting and have conferences with all KPASS parents

2. Determine a menu of options for KPASS conferences

3. Determine needs for conferring with parents 

3. Consistency in feedback tools, procedures, and use of PBP tables.

Raising Student Achievement Conference

The annual Raising Student Achievement Conference (RSAC) was held this week in Oakbrook. Featured speaker, Eric Curts, led several technology sessions including one on Custom AI Chatbots for personalizing student learning. Each of the tools Eric shared allows for customizing learning interactions through tutoring modules, video and topic exploration, and even chatting with historical figures. Also included were tips for using AI resources responsibly. His session focused on helping educators to begin exploring AI tools. If you are interested in his presentation, you can view it HERE.  Additional resource links can be found HERE.

K-5 Curriculum Chats (K-5)

 This week the Curriculum Chats focused on Critical Thinking!  The running agenda captured some of the notes of the discussion.  

Running Curriculum Chat Agenda  

This week's discussion with the Critical Thinking staff that were able to attend, the sessions are voluntary was captured here in this video.  

The next Curriculum Chat will be held on December 18th with Technology staff.  Please remember these are optional events for staff.  Here is the recurring link.  

Summer School Engagement Camp Call for Proposals (K-5)

As the temperatures turn colder it is time to think about summer school!  We are already planning for the summer of 2025 sessions.  If you have an interest in teaching a two week engagement camp for students at the K-5 level please complete the link below!  We are looking for fun, engaging learning opportunities for our students!  All K-5 summer school sessions will be held at KSS this summer!   We will also be posting this week the call for any core content interest in summer school teaching, be sure to apply soon! 

1-5 Summer Engagement Camp Link 

Kane County Institute Day 02/28/25 (EC - 12)

Kane County Institute Day is Friday, February 28th. On this day, you will have the opportunity to engage in professional learning that meets your needs. You will be able to view sessions, locations, as well as sign-up through this link.

If you are interested in staying at your building to collaborate, or are interested in attending a non-Kane County event (for example with another county’s ROE), please complete this linked form. These requests need to be completed by Monday January 27th. You will be contacted by either Sarah or James by Monday February 3rd, if your request has been denied. If you have not been contacted by this date, you have permission to dedicate your time on February 28th to the activity you noted.

If your requested activity requires a payment, complete the form and email Sarah (ec - 5) or James (6 - 12) with information pertaining to the PD offering, location, and cost of attendance.

K-5 Student Friendly Tables (K-5)

 At our last EAC we discussed the sharing of student friendly PBP tables that staff have created that they are open to share with others.  We have a K-5 google drive folder for student friendly PBP tables to be shared and for all to access for ideas.  If you have created a student friendly table, please share to this drive or share with your EAC Chairs (Sarah Mumm, Nancy Meisenger, or Pamela Hart) to post to the drive for you.  Be sure to check out the great samples already shared!  The EAC discussed at this time we would rather share samples that have been created out there rather than creating a formal process to create student friendly tables at this time.  

Parent Websites for At Home Learning (K-5)

 Over the course of the past month, the Department of Educational Service has been pulling various parent resources for at home learning extensions to share with parents in a Parent Curriculum Guide.  If you have any great learning at home resource websites that you currently share with your families on Canvas, please share those with Sarah Mumm at 10358@kaneland.org to be included in the communication guide.  

Curriculum Review - Joint Statement 6 - 8 Exploratory

The middle school exploratory team met. The team agreed to add a 6th grade health course to the schedule. This course allows the 7th and 8th grade health curriculum to be covered at a more in-depth level. The new schedule will have 6th grade health offered during the exploratory periods and will not be replacing a PE class. This move allows for the two existing computer classes to be shifted to 7th and 8th grade. Instructional and curriculum gaps were identified in the current course offerings. The need for updated and replacement curricular materials were discussed and for the next meeting, further research is needed by each sub-department. In addition to this, the names of existing course offerings were vetted to align to the PaCE framework. The team ended with a review of action items that included engaging in follow-up conversations with teachers and/or departments, pricing materials, and continued vetting of materials. 

Next meeting: Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Kane County Institute Day Registration Information (EC-12)

The 2025 Kane County Institute Day sessions offerings will be available for viewing through the ROE on Monday, December 9, 2024. Registration will open at 6:00am on January 6, 2025. 

K-5 Curriculum Chats (K-5)

This week the Curriculum Chats focused on Music!  The running agenda captured some of the notes of the discussion.  

Running Curriculum Chat Agenda  

This week we met with Music staff.  Here is the link to the video.

The next Curriculum Chat will be held on December 11th with Critical Thinking staff.  Please remember these are optional events for staff.  Here is the recurring link.  

Educator Advisory Council (K-5)

 Today the Educator Advisory met…

• The meeting notetaker today was Heidi Gilkey 

• Kipla: No other remaining questions for Laura

• Supply Lists: Due by Dec. 2nd at noon.  Take the survey as well to help with the bulk ordering.  Email reminder will be sent Nov 26th with the link.

Exploratory teachers will still have access to the same items from teachers and the office.  

• YouTube:  Discussed the pros and cons of blockage and looked into options for limiting access. 

• KPASS survey: Continue surveying the same stakeholders, including all Middle School students, K-5 teachers, Parents, possible interest survey for 3rd grade. Members created questions for the surveys.

• Student Friendly PBP tables: Pros and Cons were discussed, as well as sharing student friendly tables.  If you have any samples please share here.

• Strategic Plan ideas documented

• KDAB will be put on hold for the rest of the year.  Huddle meetings will be once every 6 weeks

K-5 Grade Level and School Supply Lists Due (K-5)

 Based on the EAC work and decision, please send your final grade level school supply list edits to Sarah Mumm by the end of today so we can edit and prepare the school based supply lists for next year.  Thank you to all of the EAC reps for the reminders and working with teams through this process.  

First Semester Feedback Drawing (EC-12)

 WOW!  Kaneland is making connections.  Our first semester feedback connections competition has come to an end this week.   We have been so impressed with all staff that have been connecting with their random puzzle job category and getting to know others in differnt ways. Here is a summary of the first semester connections made:

25 staff members reached out and made connections with others based on the random puzzle drawing the first day!

257 connection points were created through all the various ways to get to know each other!

1 puzzle was fully connected!  Go TEAM!

Thank you to all who have reached out and connected with others.  This is the best part of Kaneland, becoming a Knight Family!  

The winners of the first semester connection competition is.... Stephanie Unger, congrats on the random draw raffle basket and Jenelle Mance congrats on the holiday baking treats random draw!  We will get your prizes out to you to enjoy next week!  

The second semester puzzle connections competition begins January 6th!  Keep connecting and sending you all the great connections you are making!    

IAR Tools (K-8)

 As we begin to consider the upcoming IAR test this April, we will feature the core tools that students have access to on the assessment.  Please take a moment to review the tools and the support it can provide your students during the test.  Take a moment to reflect on this first set of IAR tools and consider ways to embed explicitly modeling and having students practice this tool in your content teaching over the next few months. For example during writer's workshop having students using the highlighter tool to reflect on their writing during feedback conference to identify parts they would like specific feedback on.  This gives them a chance to practice the features of the highlighter tool.  Please make a goal to model a few IAR tools in your content over the next few months.  

 

2024 IgKnight Conference Feedback (EC-12)

Thank you to everyone for another great IgKnight Professional Learning Conference! We ran a total of 156 sessions and hosted 430 attendees! Special shout outs to:

• the high school for opening their classrooms to all of Kaneland
• each of our presenters for your time in preparing and delivering fabulous sessions
• the Key Club student volunteers and their sponsor, Mrs. Kuntz, for helping with set up, tear down, signing in and out, and directions around the building
• the Food Service Department for the great coffee and treats
• our technology staff for their help with all things tech
• our diligent custodial staff for helping with the day's clean up
• anyone else who contributed to our collective learning

Here's a glimpse of some of the feedback we received on the event, as well as a link to all of the "Shout Outs" attendees shared. Thank you for taking the time to provide this information! 

    ATTENDEE "SHOUT OUTS" LINK

 

Feedback Goal - November Progress Update (EC - 12)

Throughout the school year, members of the Ed Services team have been gathering data on observable feedback within the classroom. The chart below reflects the data collected as of November 20, 2024. The levels are based on the typology of feedback that has been used by the district to develop the SIP and “all-in” goal. I have linked an overview of the typology levels here.

Student Panels (K-5)

 Today we had a K-5 student panel at KIPLA.  The following were shared by students reflecting on learning, parent conferences and feedback:

-A conferences I learned that I need to organize more and be more careful with my things

-I did get feedback that I am smart for a 3rd grader in all standards and domains for math

-I have been working in 4th grade proficiency tables for math, I upgraded

-They give you feedback on your writing and how it is going and 

-I get feedback to organize and was given a personal space to work on having my area that I can put my stuff in in order to better organize

-This has been helpful to me

-At group meetings I get feedback from people in my grade level and we talk about grades levels 1-3

-I reflect in conferences during the year to learn about myself

-Talk with each other and learn about what I need to do next

-I have learned that I do forget things easily 

-I have learned that I am good with decimals and adding and subtracting them

-I like learning at my own pace

-Here you can be in a main class with one big class

Feedback Guessing Game (EC-12)

As we continue our focus on feedback across EC-12, let's test our growing proficiency around levels of feedback. Using the feedback levels found HERE, consider which level each of the authentic pieces of feedback below fall within. Send your answers to Laura Garland at 10166@kaneland.org to be entered into a raffle.

1. What do you think you need to work on to best prepare for the math check in tomorrow on integers?

2. How did you know how to figure that out? I understand what you’re saying, and you’re right, but how did you know? 

3. Before you assume you did it wrong, let’s look at it. Where do you think you went wrong?

K-5 Curriculum Chats (K-5)

Based on first trimester feedback collected from KEA, I have made a few changes to the upcoming chats.  I have included a running agenda for all sessions that are upcoming that will also include brief notes.  The running agenda will also help staff be able to decide if they need to attend the session or not  based on the topics.  Please remember the sessions are always optional for staff to attend.  I will also be trying to record so staff can watch them afterwards as well.  

Running Curriculum Chat Agenda  

This week we met with Art staff.  Here is the recording of the chat.  

We will not have a chat next week due to Thanksgiving week!  I would like to wish you and your families an amazing Thanksgiving week! 

The next Curriculum Chat will be held on December 4th with Music staff.  Here is the recurring link.  

Feedback Connections Competition (EC-12)

Season's "Eatings"! There's "November" time to connect than right now! We'll be collecting entries into the 1st semester Feedback Connections Competition through the end of the month. If you haven't entered yet, no worries! Better "sweater" than never. You've got "stuffing" to lose. I confess, I'm "pie-ning" for you to enter! Am I trying too hard to be "punny"? Sorry, but that's how I "casser-ole"! 

If you're as geared up for Thanksgiving as I am, connect with a colleague, make their day, and send your entry/entries to anyone in Ed Services!  Last date to enter your connections to be part of the Fall raffle is December 2nd.

WAY: Who Are You- 1 entry 

There is always a “WAY” to make someone’s day!  Research and identify the person that holds the position you randomly selected.  Send them a note, email or quick text to make their day.  No response or interaction is needed, just a supportive message to them.

Submit who you connected with and sent a supportive message to and the job category they hold to Education Service Department   

WIL: What I Learned- 3 entries 

Where there is a “WIL” there is a way.  Email, text, call the person and share a bit about yourself and ask them about what they do for our students in Kaneland.  

Submit a WIL, what I learned from reflection that includes three things that you learned about the person and how they are committed to our students. To the Education Service Department 

WHY: We Hear You- 4 entries 

“WHY” not actively listen and learn from each other?. Connect and discuss your why with your randomly selected job category person. Create a visual or snap a picture together showing how your whys connect to each other.   

Submit your visual or picture to Education Service Department 

WWF: We Want Feedback- 5 entries 

Let’s get electrified with some feedback.  To earn 5 entries, you and the chosen partner will share a teaching video, lesson or go observe each other and use the feedback delivery table to co-construct feedback around learning for each other. 

Submit a summary of what one thing you may want to shift in your practice based on your peer’s feedback.

WIMS: Walk In My Shoes-6 entries 

On a “WIM” go and visit the randomly selected job category to see for yourself their job. Take a half day sub to shadow and observe in the person’s classroom or job area.  While you are there, consider how what they do daily connects to what you do.

Submit the date of your observation along with three things you learned during the observation to Educational Service Department

IgKnight Horizontal Session Updates (EC-12)

 We are looking forward to great horizontal collaboration sessions on Monday at 11:30 during IgKnight.  Each session does have a designated room location.  Please be sure to check in Sched your assigned location.  Here are some tips for your collaboration sessions.   

e-Learning Reminder (EC-12)

 Just a reminder as the temps begin to turn a bit, the district has an approved e-learning plan.  Please take time to review the staff and students expectations in the plan as winter comes. If you have any questions or need support, please check in with your School Administration or the Department of Educational Service. 

MTSS Coordinator Summary Notes (K-5)

 Today the MTSS Coordinator met for their monthly meeting. The following topics were discussed:

• A refresher of the Behavior Support Grid was discussed.  We will reshare at our student support meetings and in the blog to remind staff that this resource is out there to assist staff in finding help in all the right areas.

• The team also discussed a role document that was created in 2023 and considered how we might update and review this document this year. We will be asking for feedback from the various roles (MTSS, Related Service, Special Education) and cross checking the content of the document later this Spring.

• The team took time to review the Spring 2025 assessment calendar based on a need to push back end of the year testing allowing for more instructional time.  A revised assessment calendar will be coming out in the next two weeks. 

• The team held a discussion on workload at the K-5 level and how to alleviate some of the tasks.  We will continue to brainstorm the process and share ideas over the next few weeks.  

• The team checked in with the OTs on the process of the RFAF with OT/PT requests.  At this time we are not looking to make any edits for the forms. We will revisit conversations with teachers on how to collect data prior to OT/PT requests.

• The team began to discuss the writing data collection for the school year.  Just a reminder we are collecting the post data for all three genres.  Please enter your data using the google form provided per genre as soon as you collect and score your post assessments on a given genre.

• The team took time to discuss how we can balance the use of MTSS Co-Teachers for assessments at the start of the year and for Kindergarten.  We are trying to balance having the Co-Teachers in the classroom to support learning and build beginning of the year relationships as much as possible.  

• The team discussed IAR training video options.  

• All team members reviewed and agreed to the above notes.  Team members present were:  Sarah Mumm, Catherine Orin, Shaun Wenz, Kristi Purnell and Chris Sears.

The MTSS Team and Ed Service would like to wish you all a very end of November and Happy Thanksgiving season!  

K-5 Behavior Support Grid Refresher (K-5)

 During the MTSS Coordinator meeting this week the team discussed the Behavior Support Grid.  This document is a support document for staff who are looking for support to problem solve situations and look for staff to assist.  This is nothing new, but we wanted to refresh our memories that this support tool exists.  If you have any questions please see your MTSS Coordinator or contact Sarah Mumm.  Thank you.    

Master of Science in Low Vision and Blindness program at Illinois State University (EC - 12)

 Please see this link regarding a master degree program through ISU for Low Vision and Blindness.

Report Cards Go Live this Week! (K-5)

 Thank you for all your hard work at Parent Teacher Conferences.  There has been so many great informal feedback statements made by community members.  We do know they are long nights for all staff, thank you!  Please remember that all report card grades need to be entered by Wednesday at midnight.  The system will be locked down on Thursday to prepare for the Friday release. Exploratory classes do need to post overview of learning on Canvas by Friday since there are no grades this trimester.    

Curriculum Chats P.E. (K-5)

  This week a P.E. Curriculum chat was held.  The following were topics discussed:

-The State is looking into the requirement of the required 3 or 5 days per week P.E. requirement.  Initial discussions.  Currently it is something we are on and off compliance with at K-5 over the years. 

-The ROE Compliance visit will take place in January.  Sarah will request a few PE sample lessons over the next month. Some topics may include:  Fitness testing, and health topics, and new this is is vaping and e-cigarettes.

-Discussion on the response to the Exploratory community survey.  It was posted on social media last night.  Sarah will be checking the response rate this Friday and checking with the committee for ideas of how to reshare later in the month.  

The next Curriculum Chat will be held on Wednesday with Art staff.  Here is the recurring link.  

Writing Assessment K-5 (K-5)

 Please remember the writing process for this year has shifted and writing should be assessed at the end of each genre.  Pre-assessing writing may take place as part of the writer's workshop process, but is not required to be recorded formally.  Please take a moment to check out the writing assessment information shared here.  We have updated the assessment document to include frequently asked and answered questions.  Always remember we do use the Lucy Calkins Units of Study Tool for our Writing practices as well unless you have met with your Administrator and have exhibited proficiency on the writing delivery table and discussed other tools that work for your instruction.  It is an expectation that Writer's Workshop is the practice for all students in your classroom for writing this year.  If at any time you need support in writing practices please reach out to your Instructional Coach for support.   

Full Day Kindergarten Planning Team Volunteers (K-5)

 The State of Illinois has mandated by the 2027-2028 school year, every school district will offer full day Kindergarten to all students.  In order to begin the process that will outline the steps to consider the shift to full from half day and extended day, Kaneland would like to begin to form a review team that will meet twice during this Spring semester during the school day to begin the outlining possible steps.  This team will outline the process that will be furthered over the course of next two school years (25/26 and 26/27).  Members of the initial process outlining team will not be required to continue in the formal planning over the next two years but may have the option to continue.  If you are interested in taking part in the initial planning team please email Sarah Mumm to express your interest.  In order to limit the number of subs, it is suggested that 1-2 reps per schools participate.  There will be ample feedback opportunity for all stakeholders in the coming years on this process and during this initial outlining of the process.  We look forward to starting the discussion of this expansion to full day Kindergarten by 2027.       

6 - 12 World Language Review (6 - 12)

Members of the middle school and high school World Language team met to review their curriculum. Materials were reviewed to better support the needs of the revised scope and sequence of the units of standards. The team will be requesting that the future meeting include sales reps for the preferred materials.

6 - 8 Exploratory Review (6 - 8)

Representatives of the 6 - 8 exploratories met for their second curriculum review. The meeting began with Nikki Larsen, from KHS, discussing the PaCE framework. The team discussed exploratories offered at the 6 - 8 level and how these support, or can be modified to support, the six pathways at KHS. The team reviewed a potential change in the sequence of 6 - 8 exploratory options, and it was agreed upon that the proposed new schedule allows opportunity for students in the 8th grade to have a computer-based class. The team revised some class descriptions to more accurately articulate those classes. Revision to the health class was discussed and there is the potential for a future recommendation to the school board. A list of materials, subscriptions, and other items was generated to review at the next scheduled meeting.

5 Fast Facts about Personalized Learning (EC-12)

 5 Fast Facts about Personalized Learning

1. Personalized learning is an embedded philosophy across all Kaneland schools. The Ten Tenets of PL in Kaneland are defined in this document.

2. All staff are charged with employing PL tenets with intentionality, based on learner needs.

3. The flexible learning environment at IgKnight Academy (KIPLA) allows for the deepest implementation of the Ten Tenets of Personalized Learning in Kaneland. This Tenets in Action document speaks to the different levels of implementation across the district.

4. Personalized learning has been linked to increased motivation, engagement, confidence and academic achievement in students. 

5. In personalized learning, learners serve as resources in their own learning.

Here is an example of a learner’s role in goal setting.

IgKnight Academy (KIPLA) Talking Points for PT Conferences (2nd-9th)

This post was shared a few weeks ago. We are re-sharing as a reminder for conferences this week.

With parent-teacher conferences just around the corner, we wanted to share some IgKnight Academy talking points with all staff. Should you receive questions during parent-teacher conferences, or if you have a student you feel would be a good fit for IgKnight Academy, please use this document to guide your discussions. 

PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCE IGKNIGHT ACADEMY TALKING POINTS 

 You are also welcome to direct any parent questions to Laura Garland, 10166@kaneland.org

Curriculum Chat (K-5)

 This week a KPASS Curriculum chat was held.  The following were topics discussed:

-Options for administering IAR and pros and cons for the timing of the test that best suits the student experience

-Open viewing and vetting of materials for math and next steps for the math review team

-Learning Stars pilot for IAR happening at KST 

-KPASS review through EAC will be happening soon, please be ready for review and data collection on the process of departmentalizing 

Next week there will be no chats due to Parent Teacher Conference Day.  The next Curriculum Chat will be held on November 13th with PE staff.  Here is the recurring link.  

Math Curriculum Review Joint Statement (K-5)

 Today the Math Curriculum Review team met for the next full team meeting.  The following were tasks from today’s work:

• Teams spent time in grade levels further making suggested edits for proficiency tables, math assessments, and grade level vocabulary.

• The teams then met vertically K-3 and 3-5 to share common vocabulary and structures for learning to assist in the process clarity across grade levels.  

• In the afternoon the team members took time to brainstorm ideas for must do and may do learning structures in math, review the math delivery table expectations for math, began to review supported tools to teach our curriculum outlined on our tables, and reviewed the current math assessment guidelines document.

• The team is planning further small group sub time to take more dedicated time to review print and online samples from various vendors. 

• Our next full group meeting will take place January 27, 2025. 

If you have any questions about the progress of the review work please do not hesitate to reach out to any of the members in attendance today:  Stephanie Unger, Taylor Setterlund, Samantha Maurer, Jill Hardekopf, Rachael Wilson, Kathy Jurasek, Maada Kosky, Erin Eickman, David Argabright, Jennifer Bovee, Lissy Bradford, Linda Norton, Alexis Martin, Jeremy Berger, Nancy Meisenger, Tricia Nugara, Molly Santana, Heather Fortcamp, Liz Orman, Julie McCombs and Sarah Mumm. 

Last Chance to Connect! Raffle Coming Soon! (EC-12)

 The Puzzle Connection Competition Fall Raffle is coming soon!  We have had 128 connections made across the district so far!  Submit your connections by the end of November to be part of the raffle for the first semester! 

Level of Connecting and Committing 

Activity

Evidence of Connection and Commitment

Raffle Entries if Completed

WAY: Who Are You- 1 entry 

There is always a “WAY” to make someone’s day!  Research and identify the person that holds the position you randomly selected.  Send them a note, email or quick text to make their day.  No response or interaction is needed, just a supportive message to them.

Submit who you connected with and sent a supportive message to and the job category they hold to Education Service Department   

WIL: What I Learned- 3 entries 

Where there is a “WIL” there is a way.  Email, text, call the person and share a bit about yourself and ask them about what they do for our students in Kaneland.  

Submit a WIL, what I learned from reflection that includes three things that you learned about the person and how they are committed to our students. To the Education Service Department 

WHY: We Hear You- 4 entries 

“WHY” not actively listen and learn from each other?. Connect and discuss your why with your randomly selected job category person. Create a visual or snap a picture together showing how your whys connect to each other.   

Submit your visual or picture to Education Service Department 

WWF: We Want Feedback- 5 entries 

Let’s get electrified with some feedback.  To earn 5 entries, you and the chosen partner will share a teaching video, lesson or go observe each other and use the feedback delivery table to co-construct feedback around learning for each other. 

Submit a summary of what one thing you may want to shift in your practice based on your peer’s feedback.

WIMS: Walk In My Shoes-6 entries 

On a “WIM” go and visit the randomly selected job category to see for yourself their job. Take a half day sub to shadow and observe in the person’s classroom or job area.  While you are there, consider how what they do daily connects to what you do.

Submit the date of your observation along with three things you learned during the observation to Educational Service Department

IAR Survey K-5 (K-5)

 As we get closer to the start of the IAR season beginning, we would like to reflect on our current practices of embedding tools and showing our students how to use them in our content areas.  Please take a moment to take a pre-survey that reflects on how you might have explicitly shared IAR tools during instruction with students in the past using this link.  Please take this survey prior to November 1st. 

First Trimester Assessment Feedback: Math and Word Study (K-5)

 Now that we are coming to the end of the first trimester, it is a good time to reflect on our two new local (type 2) assessments.  Please take a moment to submit your feedback using this google form for the word study and math assessment.  At the end of this first year we will make final edits for both assessments in order to validate the final assessment for future use.  Other edits are being collected for math through the Math Curriculum Review Team as well. 

Student Panel, Secondary (6-12)

During the monthly meeting with the secondary level administration, a student panel provided perspective regarding topics such as the change to traditional grading, how to access support when they are academically struggling, and how they receive feedback from their teachers.

The students reported that they thought the return to traditional grading was going well. They were happy with the variety of opportunities they had to earn a grade. They also noted that they liked the different types of assignments that they had.

Students indicated that they relied on email to communicate with teachers, but that they also felt comfortable approaching them one-on-one. In terms of feedback, they felt that the best feedback they received occurred in a small group or one-on-one setting. When asked about proficiency tables, they noted that these are mostly utilized in large projects.

Curriculum Chats 2-3 (K-5)

 This week the the Curriculum Chat was held with 2nd and 3rd grade.  The following topics were discussed:

-Supply list updates and encouraging staff to complete the survey by classroom prior to December 1st

-IAR discussion of data.  Data will be released next week.  We will be building a more robust focus on IAR and the ability of students to show what they know on the test this year and future years.

-Report cards are ready for data entry.  Please be sure to note if a students has been engaging in MTSS targeted co-teaching intervention. 

-The team took time to discuss other math pilot opportunities coming up in November and December.

The next Curriculum Chat will be next Wednesday at 8:05 with KPASS using this link. 

 

IgKnight Academy Talking Points for PT Conferences (2-9)

With parent-teacher conferences just around the corner, we wanted to share some IgKnight Academy talking points with all staff. Should you receive questions during parent-teacher conferences, or if you have a student you feel would be a good fit for IgKnight Academy, please use this document to guide your discussions. 

PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCE IGKNIGHT ACADEMY TALKING POINTS 

 You are also welcome to direct any parent questions to Laura Garland, 10166@kaneland.org

Tier 1 Behavior Document (EC-5)

This great resource is being used at one of our elementary buildings to ensure consistency in Tier 1 behavior structures. It's a great reminder for all! This LINK provides a more clear copy than what appears here.

Tips for Preparing for Parent Teacher Conferences (EC-12)

 As we turn to a new month and Parent/Teacher Conferences are upon us, we wanted to share a few tips from Edutopia and ASCD to best prepare for a positive and successful parent conference session!  We hope they may help in your planning.  Please reach out to any Administrator for any support you will need in planning or during a conference.  

Plan ahead: Create a schedule and plan to address important topics. 

Review student work: Provide visual examples of student work to help parents understand their child's learning. 

Communicate regularly: Keep communication open with parents to reduce miscommunication. 

Be positive: Share at least one positive trait about each student, such as a character trait or academic trait. 

Make a list of questions: Consider what you want to make sure to ask the family that you may want to know. 

Collaborate on action plans: Work with parents to find ways to work together. 

Address concerns with empathy: Be understanding when addressing concerns. 

Listen actively: Actively listen to what parents have to say. 

Create a welcoming environment: Make the conference a welcoming space for parents, they may be very nervous to come into the classroom or school.

Start with positive feedback: Begin the conference with positive feedback welcome or story. 

Educator Advisory Council (EC-5)

 This week the EAC met for the monthly meeting.  The following topics were discussed:

The team took one final look at the goals and voted to approve the goals for the 2024-2025 school year.

The supply list was discussed. The goal is for this list to be set for the next five years. Some items that are going to be ordered in bulk will require classroom teachers to fill out a Google form so that supplies are allocated appropriately.  This survey is due by December 1st and will be posted in the blog this week. An emphasis was made that we do not send home any unused supplies.  If you have any extras, work with your principal to have it stored in a building storage space.  A few questions will be followed up regarding the option to add possible supplies if one is deleted and clarification on the purchase of headphones and the involvement of the technology exploratory.  We will follow up with EAC members once we have further guidance on these answers.  

The team took time to gallery walk possible ideas, misconceptions, and marketing for personalized learning and IgKnight Academy.  Please note that parents may be getting an email before conferences based on their child scoring higher on an interest survey.  Please encourage them to reach out to Laura Garland, schedule a tour, or use the talking points to share options for learning. STAFF REQUEST TO VISIT KIPLA FORM

The committee worked in small groups to review the staff feedback on MTSS, SIP goals, and the Feedback goal.  Each small group shared the identified questions, celebrations, and reflections with the committee.  Look for a summary of these responses in the curriculum connection.

Supply List Revision (K-5)

 This month EAC has been working on revising the supply list for next school year and shifting our practice to school/grade level common supply lists with some cross district consistency among lists.  We are working through EAC in order to remain consistent within a range of supplies on our list but vary among the amounts to better meet the needs of our educators in the classroom.  Please make sure your grade level turns in to Sarah Mumm or links into the EAC agenda for October your proposed supply list by December 1st.  Proposed edits may include an deletions or reductions in the amounts requested from the current lists, but may not include additional supplies.  Also in order to complete the planning for items we have removed from the supply list and plan bulk orders for next year, each classroom teacher is asked to submit a response to this supply list survey by December 1st for their individual classroom.  Thank you in advance for assisting with this process.  

Student Panel (K-5)

 Today we had a student panel with students at KSS. The panel discussed proficiency.  The following was shared:

What ways do you show proficiency in your learning?

Practice at home and meet with your teacher

I study at home because you want to get good grades

You can sign up for conferences and and meet and talk about proficiency with her and show it on a table

We can sign up for a conference and show work and then go back and do more work and can do more questions and then 

I work with my teacher on writing and work on details

How do you use a proficiency tables in your learning process?

You can use a table to check progress 

Sometimes I go into a teacher’s room and look at the table to see if I have things right 

It can help you by reading it and see what I have wrong and then go back and check my work 

I can use it to check my work 

We can check our work with a teacher on the table and talk with a partner as well and see how our work has been with the table

Sometimes the teacher tells me I am closer to getting it than I think I am 

3 means proficient, 1- means I might not have it yet

Curriculum Chats K-1 (K-5)

 Curriculum Chats took place today with K-1 staff.  Thank you to all that were able to attend.  The following was discussed.  

-Update on the BOE proposal for tonight on early entrance to Kindergarten procedures.  We will also be discussing in a future BOE meeting a proposed fee for the process as well. 

-Reminder for KIDS assessment for Kindergarten data entry to be complete in the next two weeks, make all attempts prior to parent/teacher conferences. 

-Report cards will be available on Monday for entry and are due by midnight on 11-13

-We are collecting parent feedback at conferences on the new book fair vendor and on exploratory programming, please help encourage families to take those surveys for us 

-EAC topics coming up and open seats for K-1.  We will be discussing supply lists at this meeting.

-Math pilot meeting will take place on October 28th at 8:05 at KMAC Room 203.  Please make all attempts to attend. 

Next week we will have a 2-3 focused chat.  Here is the recurring link.  

Report Cards Are Opening Monday (EC-5)

 K-5 Report cards on Infinite Campus will be open to enter grades starting Monday.  Please log in and make sure you can see your rosters and see the students you need to assess.  In order to best support you in the report card process, please use the report card guidelines to assist your process.  All report card information should be completed and entered for every student by Wednesday November 13th at midnight.  If you need any assistance please reach out to Sarah Mumm or an Instructional Coach.    

Exploratory Review Update (K-5)

 This week the Exploratory Team met for a half day of review committee time to continue to our review work.  The team took time to briefly discuss the PACE framework from the State of Illinois, review the feedback submitted from staff on our current programming, and begin to discuss possible non-negotiables for learning structures.  The team began to draft a timeline and ideas to collect feedback from students and parents over the next month to review at our January meeting.  Please be looking out for the feedback surveys we will be sharing for parents at parent/teacher conferences and help our teams encourage families to complete and shared feedback.  Thank you to all committee members for the open sharing and dialogue at our sessions.    

Special Education Eligibility Update (EC-5)

 Over the course of last year we have spent time reviewing the process of looking at Special Education Eligibility through MTSS and local assessment processes.  This first trimester we have continued this similar process.  As we enter into the second trimester, we would like to begin to review our process and the documents (flowcharts) based on experiences and make revisions as needed for next year.  We will be asking SPED and MTSS staff to pull student case studies that have taken place this Fall that we can use as an example to walk through how the process went for the revision updates.  If you have a student case study that you would like to submit for this process, please contact Sarah or Fran.  

MTSS Philosophy Updates (EC-5)

 Over the past two weeks there have been multiple meetings that have discussed MTSS philosophy and updates.  This year we are make many attempts to improve transparency on the philosophy and practice of MTSS.  Please remember the following keys to our success:

-Packaged intervention materials should not be used in full since MTSS uses co-teaching that connects to the core classroom.  The materials used for intervention should mirror and be flexible to the classroom instruction.  Past intervention tools, such as LLI kits, may not be used in full but the texts from the kits might be used in guided reading as an additional intervention through station or parallel co teaching.  

-Although we do not formally use tier 2 and 3 language, we do focus on providing through co-teaching additional intervention time at a targeted level (fromally tier 2) and intensive level (tier 3) for students.  This time in co-teaching should be above and beyond time from core instruction provided by the classroom teacher.

-MTSS Co-Teachers should not solely instruct tier 1 classroom instruction only.  They may assist and co-teaching during core instruction but they should also provide additional time of intervention in co-teaching for students. 

-Guided Reading should be taking place in every classroom for all students at least 2-3 times per week for 10-15 mins. 

-We should not be giving a student a consistent accommodations for assessment for a long period of time beyond a unit of study without considering 504 actions or further formal documentation of the accomdation need. 

Please see any MTSS Co-Teacher, MTSS Coordinator or Sarah Mumm with any questions on any of these key philosophies shared. 

LAST DAY to register for IgKnight Conference TODAY (EC-12)

 IgKnight Registration is closing TODAY! All staff must register prior to October 16th at 4:00pm (this was extended to today for us to publicize one last time in the blog).  Please use this link to select your sessions prior to the closing of the system.  LINK

IgKnight Conference Registration Closes Soon (EC-12)

 IgKnight Registration is closing soon! All staff must register prior to October 15th.  Please use this link to select your sessions prior to the closing of the system.  LINK

Common Feedback One Session (EC-12)

 Over the first trimester the goal for all staff was to engage in the first common feedback one.  The emphasis of that session was to understand the feedback process with students and the types and levels of feedback.  Below is a visual that will assist all staff in seeing the three levels of feedback and a quick check on the foundation of each of the nine types.  Please reflect over the course of the month what level of feedback you are engaging in with your students and how you might co-construct with the use of  questioning at a higher level in order to engage and empower the learner to drive their learning journey. 

Curriculum Chats with MTSS and SPED (EC-5)

Curriculum Chats took place today with MTSS and SPED staff.  Thank you to all that were able to attend.  The following was discussed.  

-Reminders that the small group dyslexia team is meeting again coming up in November.  No state movement on the requirements of this process at this time

-MTSS Co-Teacher meeting met the other day and had great discussions.  We will be following up with CHESS and Coordinators.  We are looking to add a google form for co-teachers to request possible pull out. 

-We discussed the need to share the essential focus of SPED and MTSS and build capacity of our community, internal stakeholders and external stakeholders.  

-We reviewed the discussion of SPED staff also assisting, when groups allowed and are focused on similar needs, MTSS students.

-The team discussed how to now over support and allow students to show the level of support they need to be successful and scaffold off support in order to determine the intervention level or eligibility lefel needed for long term learning. 

-The team took time to discuss looking at tools in the future for SPED and Gen Ed as we complete Curriculum review processes. 

Next week we will have a joint K-1 chat and begin the cycle over again. Here is the recurring  LINK