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Inside this issue
Important Upcoming Events/Meetings
February 3, 2017: Instructional Coaches PLC February 8, 2017: Zones of Regulation Training February 10, 2017: Read 180 Cohort February 13, 2017: Principals Council February 15, 2017: Superintendents Council February 23-24, 2017: CASE Conference, Virtual Site at RBEC February 24, 2017, 1:00 - 3:00: Social Worker Cohort at RBEC February 27, 2017, 9:30: SLP Cohort at CF Board Room March 3, 2017: ADSIS Teachers/Instructional Coaches PLC March 15, 2017: Superintendents Council |
The Progress, February 2017: Volume 2, Issue 6
The Progress archive
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GCED is offering a Jump Start Professional Development the week of August 7, 2017. These courses are open on a first come, first served basis to our GCED employees and to our member district employees. Those interested may register below with a click on the session date/time below, which is linked to the registration site. People may also register for the courses on our website home page, left column. CEUs will be available for all sessions. Please contact Cindy Luhman if you have registration questions or Jillynne Raymond for other questions regarding these sessions.
Please take note of some registration details:
SUMMER JUMP START PD COURSE OFFERINGS:
BEHAVIOR TOOLS™ are strategic methods to help students regulate behavior. The strategies work well with students of all ages and of all levels of functional skills, including students that preverbal or nonverbal. Sessions our presented by GCED or member district staff members trained in the tools. Multiple sessions are offered to accommodate schedules; you only need to register for one session.
Behavior Tools Training - Monday August 7, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
Behavior Tools Training - Tuesday August 8, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
Behavior Tools Training - Thursday August 10, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
CAFE™ helps students master the four key components of successful reading: Comprehension, Accuracy, Fluency, and Expanding vocabulary.
CAFE - Wednesday August 9, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
CO-TEACHING: THE BASICS will introduce participants to the trends in co-teaching, learn the prerequisite skills, and develop critical skills necessary for successful and sustainable co-teaching partnerships.
Co-Teaching: The Basics - Tuesday August 8, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
CO-TEACHING: RW COACHING SESSION/CURRICULUM WRITING offers an opportunity for teachers coaching support while writing curriculum for co-taught courses.
RW Coaching Session/Curriculum Writing - Tuesday August 8, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
DAILY 5™ is a framework for structuring literacy time so that students develop lifelong habits of reading, writing, and working independently.
Daily 5 - Tuesday August 8, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
DEVELOPING AND MAINTAINING A GROWTH MINDSET CLASSROOM will explore strategies and structures that promote a growth mindset, with a focus on students most at risk for developing a fixed mindset: struggling students and, ironically, gifted students.
Developing and Maintaining a Growth Mindset Classroom - Wednesday August 9, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
DIAL - DIFFERENTIATED INSTRUCTION FOR ALL LEARNERS will explore two major components of differentiation: compacting "early finishers" out of work they have mastered and into compelling independent project, and stratifying lessons at different levels of depth and complexity so that all students can work in their zone of proximal development.
DIAL - Differentiated Instruction for All Learners - Wednesday August 9, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
FASTBRIDGE ASSESSMENT TRAINING MODULES W/ SUPPORT is offered to support training needs for the 2016-2017 academic school year. Participants will learn how to use Fastbridge with their online training modules. Instructional coaches will be able to guide learners through the sessions.
FastBridge Assessment Training Modules w/Support - Tuesday August 8, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
FastBridge Assessment Training Modules w/Support - Wednesday August 9, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
FastBridge Assessment Training Modules w/Support - Thursday August 10, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
FastBridge Assessment Training Modules w/Support - Thursday August 10, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
HIGH INCIDENTS ACCESSIBILITY is a session offered by our Assistive Technology Coordinator, Monica Capra. This session will explore accessibility features on commonly used devices such as iPad and Chromebook. We will also explore technology that supports students with high incidence disabilities within the general education curriculum. Bring your own device and your questions.
High Incidents Accessibility - Tuesday August 8, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
MATH 180 is a comprehensive system of curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional development designed to equip older struggling students with the knowledge, reasoning, and confidence to thrive in algebra. Participants must register for both days.
Math 180 Day 1 of 2 - Monday August 7, 2017 8:00 AM-3:30 PM
Math 180 Day 2 of 2 - Tuesday August 8, 2017 8:00 AM-3:30 PM
MTSS for Teachers: Improving Literacy AM Session 8:00-11:30 AM
This MTSS session is designed for teachers/teacher leaders/school psychologist to build their capacity with Tier 1 effectiveness and problem solving. Participants will learn ideas for immediately improving universal tier instruction.
https://gced.wufoo.com/forms/z175mv1i14q590h/
MTSS for Teachers: Improving Literacy PM Session 12:00-3:30 PM
Repeated session, however space is available for teams wishing to continue their work from the morning. Please contact Jillynne Raymond if you would like PM space to continue your work; do not register for the MTSS PM session.
https://gced.wufoo.com/forms/z1pehf1c0xuav9r/
PROGRESS MONITORING
Progress Monitoring - Wednesday August 9, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
SYSTEM 44 is a foundational reading program for the most challenged readers in Grades 3 - 12. Participants must register for both days.
System 44 - Day 1 of 2 - Wednesday August 9, 2017 8:00 AM-3:30 PM
System 44 - Day 2 of 2 - Thursday August 10, 2017 8:00 AM-3:30 PM
Please take note of some registration details:
- Registrations are open and free to GCED and our Member District Staff Members in General Education or Special Education.
- Registrations will be handled on a first come, first served basis through May 30, 2017. At that point, any open spots will also be open to any Region 10 member for a fee.
- Courses have varying maximum capacities. If you are unable to register, it means that the course is full. If that happens to you, please contact Cindy Luhman and asked to be placed on the waiting list. The waiting list will serve two purposes:
- If registration cancellations occur, then Cindy will contact individual(s) on the waiting list.
- If the waiting list grows to indicate need and if we are able to, we will open another session of the course.
SUMMER JUMP START PD COURSE OFFERINGS:
BEHAVIOR TOOLS™ are strategic methods to help students regulate behavior. The strategies work well with students of all ages and of all levels of functional skills, including students that preverbal or nonverbal. Sessions our presented by GCED or member district staff members trained in the tools. Multiple sessions are offered to accommodate schedules; you only need to register for one session.
Behavior Tools Training - Monday August 7, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
Behavior Tools Training - Tuesday August 8, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
Behavior Tools Training - Thursday August 10, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
CAFE™ helps students master the four key components of successful reading: Comprehension, Accuracy, Fluency, and Expanding vocabulary.
CAFE - Wednesday August 9, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
CO-TEACHING: THE BASICS will introduce participants to the trends in co-teaching, learn the prerequisite skills, and develop critical skills necessary for successful and sustainable co-teaching partnerships.
Co-Teaching: The Basics - Tuesday August 8, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
CO-TEACHING: RW COACHING SESSION/CURRICULUM WRITING offers an opportunity for teachers coaching support while writing curriculum for co-taught courses.
RW Coaching Session/Curriculum Writing - Tuesday August 8, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
DAILY 5™ is a framework for structuring literacy time so that students develop lifelong habits of reading, writing, and working independently.
Daily 5 - Tuesday August 8, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
DEVELOPING AND MAINTAINING A GROWTH MINDSET CLASSROOM will explore strategies and structures that promote a growth mindset, with a focus on students most at risk for developing a fixed mindset: struggling students and, ironically, gifted students.
Developing and Maintaining a Growth Mindset Classroom - Wednesday August 9, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
DIAL - DIFFERENTIATED INSTRUCTION FOR ALL LEARNERS will explore two major components of differentiation: compacting "early finishers" out of work they have mastered and into compelling independent project, and stratifying lessons at different levels of depth and complexity so that all students can work in their zone of proximal development.
DIAL - Differentiated Instruction for All Learners - Wednesday August 9, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
FASTBRIDGE ASSESSMENT TRAINING MODULES W/ SUPPORT is offered to support training needs for the 2016-2017 academic school year. Participants will learn how to use Fastbridge with their online training modules. Instructional coaches will be able to guide learners through the sessions.
FastBridge Assessment Training Modules w/Support - Tuesday August 8, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
FastBridge Assessment Training Modules w/Support - Wednesday August 9, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
FastBridge Assessment Training Modules w/Support - Thursday August 10, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
FastBridge Assessment Training Modules w/Support - Thursday August 10, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
HIGH INCIDENTS ACCESSIBILITY is a session offered by our Assistive Technology Coordinator, Monica Capra. This session will explore accessibility features on commonly used devices such as iPad and Chromebook. We will also explore technology that supports students with high incidence disabilities within the general education curriculum. Bring your own device and your questions.
High Incidents Accessibility - Tuesday August 8, 2017 8:00-11:30 AM
MATH 180 is a comprehensive system of curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional development designed to equip older struggling students with the knowledge, reasoning, and confidence to thrive in algebra. Participants must register for both days.
Math 180 Day 1 of 2 - Monday August 7, 2017 8:00 AM-3:30 PM
Math 180 Day 2 of 2 - Tuesday August 8, 2017 8:00 AM-3:30 PM
MTSS for Teachers: Improving Literacy AM Session 8:00-11:30 AM
This MTSS session is designed for teachers/teacher leaders/school psychologist to build their capacity with Tier 1 effectiveness and problem solving. Participants will learn ideas for immediately improving universal tier instruction.
https://gced.wufoo.com/forms/z175mv1i14q590h/
MTSS for Teachers: Improving Literacy PM Session 12:00-3:30 PM
Repeated session, however space is available for teams wishing to continue their work from the morning. Please contact Jillynne Raymond if you would like PM space to continue your work; do not register for the MTSS PM session.
https://gced.wufoo.com/forms/z1pehf1c0xuav9r/
PROGRESS MONITORING
Progress Monitoring - Wednesday August 9, 2017 12:00-3:30 PM
SYSTEM 44 is a foundational reading program for the most challenged readers in Grades 3 - 12. Participants must register for both days.
System 44 - Day 1 of 2 - Wednesday August 9, 2017 8:00 AM-3:30 PM
System 44 - Day 2 of 2 - Thursday August 10, 2017 8:00 AM-3:30 PM
Restrictive Procedures/Required Training
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Minnesota Statutes, sections 125A.0941 and 125A.0942 govern the use of restrictive procedures. All school districts in Minnesota are required to have a restrictive procedure plan. Restrictive procedures" means the use of physical holding or seclusion of children with disabilities in an emergency in Minnesota's schools. "Emergency" means a situation where immediate intervention is needed to protect a child or other individual from physical injury. Restrictive procedures must not be used to punish or discipline a child. (MDE) Wendy Ahern, GCED Assistant Director/ZM Assistant Principal, oversees restrictive procedure plans in all of our member districts. Part of the restrictive procedure plan describes methods to be used to restrain a student. All of our federal setting I, II, and III programs use CPI, or Crisis Prevention Institute. Teachers need to be re-certified in CPI on an annual basis; GCED offers this training every summer. This summer's offerings are on the right hand column. Our federal setting IV programs that are located at River Bluff Education Center use a similar program, called PCM or Professional Crisis Management. The initial training for PCM is 3 days: once someone is certified they need to take an annual one-day refresher course. Again, these are offered this summer; options are on the right hand column. Both CPI and PCM are nonviolent crisis interventions focusing on the safe management of disruptive and assaultive behaviors. Participants must be certified each year to continue to provide care, welfare, safety, and security of everyone involved during a crisis situation. District Crisis Intervention Staff should contract your building administrator or special education coordinator to verify which training you need. Thanks to Wendy and to all of the administrators, teachers, service providers that provide the necessary care to keep our students and staff members safe. |
REGISTRATION BEGINS 2/24/17 for the following trainings on GCED website, under trainings:
CPI Training Options
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GCED is so fortunate to have dedicated staff members committed to serving our students, our member districts, our communities. Thank you all. We would like to recognize Anita Gadient, Nancy Dahling, and Tiffany Boraas nominated for and recipients of our Extra Distance award.
Anita Gadient goes the extra distance in her role as secretary for Colvill Family Center in Red Wing. She responds to needs, period. Her overall contributions support Special Education and General Education students. As the face of the programs at Colvill Family Center, Anita handles multiple demands with her expert skill and her incredible grace. Thanks Anita!
ZM Nurse Nancy Dahling responds quickly and calmly to any crisis situation for students or staff members. Recently she successfully conducted the Heimlich Maneuver on a colleague. In addition to her responses to medical situations, Nancy follows through on everything asked. She consistently engages calmly and positively with both students and staff members. Thanks Nancy!
ZM Nurse Tiffany Boraas is a highly motivated individual that goes the extra distance regularly. Tiffany builds extremely positive relationships with both students and staff members. Thank you Tiffany!
Anita Gadient goes the extra distance in her role as secretary for Colvill Family Center in Red Wing. She responds to needs, period. Her overall contributions support Special Education and General Education students. As the face of the programs at Colvill Family Center, Anita handles multiple demands with her expert skill and her incredible grace. Thanks Anita!
ZM Nurse Nancy Dahling responds quickly and calmly to any crisis situation for students or staff members. Recently she successfully conducted the Heimlich Maneuver on a colleague. In addition to her responses to medical situations, Nancy follows through on everything asked. She consistently engages calmly and positively with both students and staff members. Thanks Nancy!
ZM Nurse Tiffany Boraas is a highly motivated individual that goes the extra distance regularly. Tiffany builds extremely positive relationships with both students and staff members. Thank you Tiffany!
Principals Council Recap
At a recent principals council meeting MTSS work continued at the administrative level. MTSS agenda items included:
Tuesday, April 11, 2017
12:00 to 4:00 pm
- 2017-2018 Assessment Systems
- Winter '16-17 Assessment Window, Reading and Math Data
- Scholastic Interventions Data
- MTSS Professional Development with Dr. Sarah Brown
Tuesday, April 11, 2017
12:00 to 4:00 pm
Winter '16-17 Assessment Window: Reading and Math Data across Goodhue County
While interpreting the county wide data, you should take the following considerations into account:
- Not all districts follow the GCED Wide Assessment Calendar. So some measurements are from December 2016 and some are from January 2017; you can imagine the growth that can occur in that short time, especially with elementary students.
- Districts do not all assess the same populations.
- Districts are not all using the same assessment system this year.
- Is my site assessing all necessary students?
- How is my site using this data to drive conversation on instructional practices
- Are 80% to 85% of our students achieving with first, best instruction? When we do reach it, is it consistent?
- How are we using the different type of specific data, such as fluency, for problem solving? How do I use the computer adaptive data vs. the CBM data for problem solving?
- How are we managing the progress monitoring of our moderate and high risk students? Are we responding to interventions that work and to those that do not work?
- Have we built enough awareness and skill sets for teachers using data to inform their instructional practices?
- Are both general education and special education teachers engaged in MTSS?
- Are my resources allocated to fit the system needs in order to respond to students’ needs? If I have more than 10 - 15% of students at moderate risk or more than 5 - 10% students at high risk, are resources allocated accordingly?
| Winter 2016-17 Assessment Window - Reading and Math Data |
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Working with any student requires patience and flexibility; this is especially true in a federal setting IV program. Josh Nalan demonstrated these characteristics beginning with Josh's first interview for GCED at our old Jefferson School. Josh walked into the school office as we were packing Jefferson and preparing for a move. Some walking into the situation may have seen chaos. For Josh, he clearly understood the situation and took it in stride. Josh was hired to serve as a physical education and DAPE (Developmental Adapted Physical Education) teacher for River Bluff Education Center.
Josh grew up in Sheffield, Iowa where he played sports in high school. Sports continued into college; Josh played Division 3 baseball for Central College. He also earned undergrad degrees in physical science and exercise management from Central. After college graduation, Josh moved home with his dad. He coached baseball and football while he served as a substitute teacher. Also during this time, Josh got engaged and moved to St. Paul to be nearer to his fiance, Kirsten. In St. Paul, Josh subbed in various districts and learned that he needed to get his DAPE license. Josh readily admits that his original WHY to getting his DAPE license was to make himself more employable. As he said, "life has to roll, you can be flexible." His WHY shifted as he went through the coursework and met other DAPE teachers. These experiences helped him see the genuine meaning of this new license, which is evident in his interactions with all students. His overall WHY for working in education was clear from the beginning. Josh admits having a lot of good role models early on in life. His parents divorced when Josh was young; teachers became like second parents for him. In particularly, his high school baseball coach/PE and Health Teacher had a "big impact on my life and friendships", with whom Josh still communicates. Josh completed the DAPE license and his master's degree. He and Kirsten married. They continue to live in St. Paul, where Kirsten works as an architect for BWBR Architects, Inc. Josh plays golf for Kirsten's company's golf team in the summer and they enjoy golf together. They also enjoy going to Twins games. On a Friday night, you'll find the two hanging out at home, making dinner and watching some series they enjoy. It can't be anything "too crazy because then it's time for bed." Like most educators, Josh has found the challenges of staying up until even 9:00 pm on a Friday night. It's understandable. Josh gives his all on the job; teaching is meaningful and exhausting work all at the same time. RANDOM SIDE NOTE
Did you know? Central College is located in Pella, Iowa, which is home to an infamous tulip festival that I have also enjoyed while visiting my niece when she attended Central College, too. I joked with Josh that the temptation to pick the beautiful tulips was strong. I'm glad I held off doing so since there is a $1200 fine for picking a tulip in Pella, Iowa. |
Josh Nalan, RBEC DAPE Teacher
Rapid Round with Josh Favorite Sport? Baseball College or Professional Athletics? Baseball...professional; Basketball/Football...college Comfort Food? Pizza...any topping. Favorite lesson or activity with students? Ghost Tag Dogs or Cats? Dogs Who would you invite, dead or alive, to share a meal? My Grandparents Best concert? Garth Brooks (Cool note...Josh and his sister gave concert tickets to Mom as a gift and the whole family enjoyed.) If your life was a book title, what would it be? Controlled Chaos Is there anything people may be surprised to learn about you? Some can be intimidated by my size (6'3"), but I'm just really a goof ball kid. |