Gator Run Friday Focus - August 22, 2014

I'm sure that you all know by now that I am a big believer in collaboration.  It is a must for educators so that we can learn and share with each other as we implement the new standards and flesh out our thematic units.  It is also vital for our students as we create learning experiences for them at each of the levels of Webb's Depth of Knowledge (DOK).  Collaboration is actually in the language of the levels.  To this end it is crucial that our learning spaces reflect our belief that students should be working in groups.  As I walk around the school I hope to see every classroom be set up to allow for collaboration amongst students by the third week of school.  My communication with parents and the community will be that collaboration is evident in all of our classrooms.  

• Our first PTA General Meeting is next Tuesday at 8:30 AM.  If you have done so yet, please join our amazing PTA.  They do so much for our school.
• We will have a Gator Club Meeting at 2:20 next Tuesday in the Media Center.
• There will be a Faculty Collaboration next Wednesday at 2:15 in the Media Center.  Mrs. Knapik has already sent you an email about what she will be presenting on.  We will also review some sample problems from the new Florida end of year assessment.  In addition we will briefly review your responsibilities regarding the RtI process.
• Please check your email at least twice each day and check your mailbox twice a day.  
• Ms. Felton and I will begin conducting Snapshot observations the week of September 2.  You need to know the elements that are on the Marzano tool.  When we come in please make every attempt to implement as many of the elements into your teaching as you can.  This is to your benefit.  

Quote of the Week - "I love coming to this school.  Everyone is always so happy." - one of our new students this week.