Sunday, December 23, 2012
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Monday Night & Odds 'n Ends
I want to thank you all for the wonderful get together on Monday night! I am so happy that I got to see you all and the kids. Thank you for the very thoughtful gifts as well as all the phone calls, texts and delicious casseroles over the past few weeks since the surgery. I'm so happy to have you all in Grace's and my life. You all are truly a blessing!
Just a reminder that I will be uploading the student's grades on Thursday night after they take the final exam for my 7th hour. IEP goal data sheets will be filled out and either mailed to your homes over the holiday break or sent home with your child on the first day back. As always, if you should have any questions feel free to contact me.
I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and will talk to you all soon about setting up a bowling date prior to the return to school for second semester.
Warmest wishes,
Anna
Just a reminder that I will be uploading the student's grades on Thursday night after they take the final exam for my 7th hour. IEP goal data sheets will be filled out and either mailed to your homes over the holiday break or sent home with your child on the first day back. As always, if you should have any questions feel free to contact me.
I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and will talk to you all soon about setting up a bowling date prior to the return to school for second semester.
Warmest wishes,
Anna
Monday, December 17, 2012
Email from SSD superintendent re CT tragedy
We are all extremely saddened by the events that took place at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, on Friday. Our thoughts are with all of those who have been impacted by this tragic incident.
As we mourn the tremendous loss of these children and educators, we also recognize the impact that events like these have on our own school communities, our staff, our students and their families. Please be assured that safety is a top priority for SSD, and we take all measures possible to ensure the wellbeing of our students and staff.
We also appreciate the important role all of our SSD employees play in providing support during difficult times like these. We want to ensure that you have the resources you need to respond to questions and concerns from students and their families.
Each of our SSD schools will offer crisis counseling to help students who have been affected by these events. Listed below are some links to resources that may be helpful as families choose how to address this tragedy with their children.
National Association of School Psychologists:
Coping with Crisis — Helping Children With Special Needs
http://www.nasponline.org/resources/crisis_safety/specpop_general.aspx
National Association of School Psychologists:
A National Tragedy: Helping Children Cope
http://www.nasponline.org/resources/crisis_safety/terror_general.aspx
Thank you for all you do for the students we serve.
John Cary
Superintendent
As we mourn the tremendous loss of these children and educators, we also recognize the impact that events like these have on our own school communities, our staff, our students and their families. Please be assured that safety is a top priority for SSD, and we take all measures possible to ensure the wellbeing of our students and staff.
We also appreciate the important role all of our SSD employees play in providing support during difficult times like these. We want to ensure that you have the resources you need to respond to questions and concerns from students and their families.
Each of our SSD schools will offer crisis counseling to help students who have been affected by these events. Listed below are some links to resources that may be helpful as families choose how to address this tragedy with their children.
National Association of School Psychologists:
Coping with Crisis — Helping Children With Special Needs
http://www.nasponline.org/resources/crisis_safety/specpop_general.aspx
National Association of School Psychologists:
A National Tragedy: Helping Children Cope
http://www.nasponline.org/resources/crisis_safety/terror_general.aspx
Thank you for all you do for the students we serve.
John Cary
Superintendent
Article won't copy!
After reading the email from the SRO, if you are interested in reading the article let me know so that I can forward it to your email address. Thanks!
Anna
Anna
Email from LHS Police Officer--
Below is an email we all received from our SRO Paul Gordon at LHS. I will attach the article he references in an additional post after this post:
To All,
The wake of recent, mass shootings has once again left more questions than answers. I have spoke with a number of you since the latest incident at Sandy Hook Elementary, and a we find ourselves asking, "Why?"
I am not here to answer that question. I am not a psycologist, or a statitician. I am not a counselor or even an educator.....I am a father, a husband, a cop and a 'sheepdog'.
Some of you have expressed difficulty in explaining this unprovoked violence to students as well as our own children. I submit the attached article for your review, if you choose. It was written by retired Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, US Army. He is one of the foremost authorities on school violence and has presented to police, military and security around the world.
I like this article, because it enabled me to give my own kids an explanation and empowered them to have a choice. I welcome you to review and make your own decision if its points are relevant to you and yours.
Regards,
Gordon
Police Officer Paul Gordon, #3474
St. Louis County Police
SRO-Lindbergh Schools
(314) 729-2400, ext. 1706
To All,
The wake of recent, mass shootings has once again left more questions than answers. I have spoke with a number of you since the latest incident at Sandy Hook Elementary, and a we find ourselves asking, "Why?"
I am not here to answer that question. I am not a psycologist, or a statitician. I am not a counselor or even an educator.....I am a father, a husband, a cop and a 'sheepdog'.
Some of you have expressed difficulty in explaining this unprovoked violence to students as well as our own children. I submit the attached article for your review, if you choose. It was written by retired Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, US Army. He is one of the foremost authorities on school violence and has presented to police, military and security around the world.
I like this article, because it enabled me to give my own kids an explanation and empowered them to have a choice. I welcome you to review and make your own decision if its points are relevant to you and yours.
Regards,
Gordon
Police Officer Paul Gordon, #3474
St. Louis County Police
SRO-Lindbergh Schools
(314) 729-2400, ext. 1706
Resources on talking to your kids about the shootings
Per Scholastic email:
In light of today's tragedy at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut, we wanted to provide you with reliable resources that can help you discuss a difficult topic like this with children. Please pass these resources along to parents at your school and in your community who may need help talking to their kids about today's event.
"Talking to Your Kids About Natural Disasters, War, and Violence" is a Scholastic article that offers advice from a child-development expert about how to talk with kids about violent, disturbing news.
"Talking to Children About Community Violence" is a tip sheet from the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry about how to handle discussions with kids about violence in local communities.
Click here for Scholastic News Online?s age-appropriate coverage of the tragedy in Connecticut.
We hope these resources are helpful at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Scholastic Classroom Magazine Editors
Please add scholastic@emailer.scholastic.com to your address book.
You received this message from Scholastic. Your email address is: dimbeault@lindberghschools.ws.
If you would rather not receive messages from Scholastic, please follow this link.
Email Marketing, Scholastic, 557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012 | 1-800-SCHOLASTIC
Privacy Policy | Scholastic Inc. | Terms of Use
©1996–2012 Scholastic Inc.
In light of today's tragedy at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut, we wanted to provide you with reliable resources that can help you discuss a difficult topic like this with children. Please pass these resources along to parents at your school and in your community who may need help talking to their kids about today's event.
"Talking to Your Kids About Natural Disasters, War, and Violence" is a Scholastic article that offers advice from a child-development expert about how to talk with kids about violent, disturbing news.
"Talking to Children About Community Violence" is a tip sheet from the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry about how to handle discussions with kids about violence in local communities.
Click here for Scholastic News Online?s age-appropriate coverage of the tragedy in Connecticut.
We hope these resources are helpful at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Scholastic Classroom Magazine Editors
Please add scholastic@emailer.scholastic.com to your address book.
You received this message from Scholastic. Your email address is: dimbeault@lindberghschools.ws.
If you would rather not receive messages from Scholastic, please follow this link.
Email Marketing, Scholastic, 557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012 | 1-800-SCHOLASTIC
Privacy Policy | Scholastic Inc. | Terms of Use
©1996–2012 Scholastic Inc.
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Letter from superintendent re: CT shootings
Lindbergh Schools
December 16, 2012
Dear Lindbergh Families,
We are all extremely saddened by the events that took place in a Connecticut school on Friday. The loss of life that took place is truly a tragedy. Our thoughts are with those who have been personally impacted by this horrific incident.
During times like this it is only natural to think of our own children. As educators, we think of our students as well, and what we are doing every day to make sure they are safe. Please be assured that safety is a top priority of Lindbergh Schools. We have multiple safety measures in place to help prevent these types of horrible incidences.
All staff members in our district, including teachers, administrators, and support staff, are trained in emergency response procedures. We have plans in place for each of our buildings to deal with emergency situations, including those similar to what occurred this morning. We also run regular drills, including an intruder drill, which helps keep the right procedures and precautions top-of-mind for our staff.
Our school district has a strong partnership with the St. Louis County police department, and we work with them closely to ensure that our schools are as safe as possible. Our high school and middle schools are staffed with school resource officers, and officers are quick to respond when help is needed. We regularly consult with law enforcement about safety issues. On Friday, our school resource officers immediately began visiting all schools to check in and provide support. Continuing this week, you will see the presence of personnel, both district support as well as St. Louis County police support, in and around all Lindbergh buildings.
Counselors in our buildings are available to help students who have been affected by this tragedy. If your child would like to speak to someone at school about his or her feelings, concerns or fears, please let your teacher or principal know, or encourage your child to reach out to a trusted adult. It is critical that our students feel safe at school so they are free to learn.
Listed below are some links to resources that may be helpful as you choose how to address this tragedy with your children. Please know that there is no definitive answer to how to discuss this with your child, but perhaps these resources can help guide you.
Please be assured that Lindbergh Schools has the safety and best interests of your child in mind at all times. We will work together to make sure that our procedures for preventing and dealing with dangerous situations such as this are as complete and effective as possible, and that our children are protected.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jim Simpson
Superintendent
Resources:
• http://www.webmd.com/parenting/news/20121214/talk-children-school-shooting
• http://www.apa.org/topics/violence/school-shooting.aspx
4900 S. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63126-3235 • Phone 314.729.2480 • Fax 314.729.2482 • www.lindberghschools.ws
December 16, 2012
Dear Lindbergh Families,
We are all extremely saddened by the events that took place in a Connecticut school on Friday. The loss of life that took place is truly a tragedy. Our thoughts are with those who have been personally impacted by this horrific incident.
During times like this it is only natural to think of our own children. As educators, we think of our students as well, and what we are doing every day to make sure they are safe. Please be assured that safety is a top priority of Lindbergh Schools. We have multiple safety measures in place to help prevent these types of horrible incidences.
All staff members in our district, including teachers, administrators, and support staff, are trained in emergency response procedures. We have plans in place for each of our buildings to deal with emergency situations, including those similar to what occurred this morning. We also run regular drills, including an intruder drill, which helps keep the right procedures and precautions top-of-mind for our staff.
Our school district has a strong partnership with the St. Louis County police department, and we work with them closely to ensure that our schools are as safe as possible. Our high school and middle schools are staffed with school resource officers, and officers are quick to respond when help is needed. We regularly consult with law enforcement about safety issues. On Friday, our school resource officers immediately began visiting all schools to check in and provide support. Continuing this week, you will see the presence of personnel, both district support as well as St. Louis County police support, in and around all Lindbergh buildings.
Counselors in our buildings are available to help students who have been affected by this tragedy. If your child would like to speak to someone at school about his or her feelings, concerns or fears, please let your teacher or principal know, or encourage your child to reach out to a trusted adult. It is critical that our students feel safe at school so they are free to learn.
Listed below are some links to resources that may be helpful as you choose how to address this tragedy with your children. Please know that there is no definitive answer to how to discuss this with your child, but perhaps these resources can help guide you.
Please be assured that Lindbergh Schools has the safety and best interests of your child in mind at all times. We will work together to make sure that our procedures for preventing and dealing with dangerous situations such as this are as complete and effective as possible, and that our children are protected.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jim Simpson
Superintendent
Resources:
• http://www.webmd.com/parenting/news/20121214/talk-children-school-shooting
• http://www.apa.org/topics/violence/school-shooting.aspx
4900 S. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63126-3235 • Phone 314.729.2480 • Fax 314.729.2482 • www.lindberghschools.ws
Friday, December 14, 2012
CBI Target Trip
Apparently the kids did an awesome job at Target! I received many positive reports but certainly didn't have any doubts! Very sad to miss out on the trip and am definitely missing my guys! Hope we all can get together next week for dinner? Janet mentioned that Lisa was trying to organize a get together! We are free anytime!
-Anna
-Anna
Monday, December 3, 2012
Updates for 12/3-12/20
Greetings!
The information below will carry us through until the start of the holiday break on Friday, December 21st. See bottom of post for important information.
12/3-12/7
This week in class we are wrapping up our unit on abbreviations found within the school, home and community. These include those found on calendars, recipes and throughout the community. Some of the content is review for the students while others are completely new to them. We are also reading selections for information, comprehension and drawing conclusions. We will wrap up the week by discussing a concept in the classroom novel, "Drizzle" that I have been reading to kids on Fridays. One of the characters in the story was told that she needed to be a "doer" in her life. This abstract concept was difficult but interesting to the students. We will be doing some writing, discussing and creating connections between the text and their own lives about what it means to be a "doer" in life as opposed to someone who just sits by and waits for others or other things to provide the "entertainment" in their life. Being an active member of their world as opposed to waiting on others to take care of everything for us. I expect that this will be a concept that we will be working on for several weeks or months but I have a strong belief that the students will understand the concept once we begin to assist them in finding examples in their own lives. For homework this week, they have a News-2-You due on Friday, their nightly reading and. their reading log due on Thursday. Please make sure that your child is putting their library books in their book bags on Wednesday nights. Student's who do not bring their library books back on Thursday will have their behavior card turned to yellow. I am really trying to push the issue of responsibility now that they are now 15 & 16 years old and should be able to remember to bring them back. They receive multiple reminders during the week as well as one on Wednesday prior to leaving school. Please make this THEIR RESPONSIBILITY NOT YOURS as this a crucial life skill that they will need to have when they gain employment in just 5 short years. I am aware that occasionally circumstances arise so a note or email from you is needed if they won't have their library book. After three times of forgetting their books they will have a "chat" with the grade level principal about responsibility. I do not mean to seem hard nosed about this but Amy & I cannot express the importance of this skill. The students have learned that if they were to forget a piece of their uniform in a job, etc. they would face disciplinary action by their employer after one time. They learned this while on the CBI trip to Longhorn Steakhouse so we have been spending LOTS of time discussing what responsibility looks like. You can encourage this at home by making them responsible for taking the trash cans out to the street for the weekly trash pick-up day. We have also talked about having a calendar at home that can help to remind you of your responsibilities.
12/10-12/14
The student's will have a sub the entire week and will be working on the News-2-You in class with the supplemental activities that accompany the classroom lesson version of the paper. They will be working on their holiday gift lists and work on a writing piece about about ways that we can "give" (to our families, friends, school and community) without having to physically give a tangible present. They will not have any homework assigned this week except for their nightly reading and library books & reading log due on Thursday. The students can use this week to study for any finals that they may have the following week. My final will not require them to study in advance for but some of the courses that your child is enrolled in will have modified study guides. Every core content course has a final exam.
12/17-12-20
Welcome to high school and the week of finals. It is CRUCIAL that you read below and understand how the week works. On Monday, the students will have a full day of school and have their final exam with me at the end of the day. On Tuesday-Thursday, they will only attend two of their courses where they will take their final exam for that class. If they are not being required to take a final exam for that class, there will be an activity for them to complete. As a result of this, the STUDENTS ARE DISMISSED AT 10:40AM ON TUESDAY 12/18, WEDNESDAY 12/19 AND THURSDAY 12/20 WITH NO SCHOOL ON FRIDAY 12/21. PLEASE EMAIL ME ANY CHANGE IN YOUR CHILD'S DAILY PICK-UP FOR THAT WEEK.
**IMPORTANT INFO**I will not see the students on Tuesday or Wednesday that week. The last day that I will see them prior to the holiday break will be on Thursday 12/20 during the 9:05-10:40 exam block. Some of you have contacted me about gifts for the para professionals that work directly with your child. I would suggest that you send them in on Monday 12/17 for distribution as your child's schedule that week is such that they may not see that para as they will also be assisting other student's with their finals.
** I will be out from 12/6-12/14 undergoing two surgeries that need be done sooner than later. The rod, plates, screws etc. that were placed in my right ankle/skin have begun to cause an issue and need to be removed from the leg. My body has begun to reject them and it is causing a great deal of pain, swelling and spasms. The bone fusion looks very good so the doctor's anticipate no complications with their removal. I will be able to walk on it as soon as the bruising and swelling subside and I can tolerate walking around on the 100 or so stitches on the bottom of my foot...ugh! After that portion of the surgery, the surgeons will move to my right hand and fuse it. I have been experiencing a great deal of weakness and pain where the hand bones butt up against the prosthetic wrist and the doctor's found many fractures, etc, all throughout that area. The plan is to fuse that hand (they did this to my left hand 4 years ago) in hopes of providing me relief and continued function of that hand/wrist, etc. The surgery and recovery on that is more involved and I will be casted for 2-3 months while we wait for the bones to fuse together. I am only taking off up until the last week before break (12/14) as I want to see the kids the week prior to the holiday break and wind up going stir crazy sitting around my house! I figure I'll probably need a cane to get around and the right arm will be casted and in a sling but at least there are NO wheelchairs involved and no talk of amputation this time so I'm coming back :) The para's will be subbing using my plans and a sub will step into their job so there shouldn't be much disrupt to their schedules. I am working until 10:00 am on Thursday and have to be at the hospital at 11:00am at St. Anthony's. I'll have to stay one or two nights there and plan on spending the weekend at my folks with Grace and will return to my casa on the 10th to finish healing prior to returning on Monday the 17th. I will be in touch with you all via the blog during the absence with updates, etc. and you are ALWAYS free to call me on my cell as I welcome a break in the boredom!
If I don't get a chance to personally see you prior to the winter break, please have a wonderful holiday filled with much love, laughter and fond memories! ~Anna
The information below will carry us through until the start of the holiday break on Friday, December 21st. See bottom of post for important information.
12/3-12/7
This week in class we are wrapping up our unit on abbreviations found within the school, home and community. These include those found on calendars, recipes and throughout the community. Some of the content is review for the students while others are completely new to them. We are also reading selections for information, comprehension and drawing conclusions. We will wrap up the week by discussing a concept in the classroom novel, "Drizzle" that I have been reading to kids on Fridays. One of the characters in the story was told that she needed to be a "doer" in her life. This abstract concept was difficult but interesting to the students. We will be doing some writing, discussing and creating connections between the text and their own lives about what it means to be a "doer" in life as opposed to someone who just sits by and waits for others or other things to provide the "entertainment" in their life. Being an active member of their world as opposed to waiting on others to take care of everything for us. I expect that this will be a concept that we will be working on for several weeks or months but I have a strong belief that the students will understand the concept once we begin to assist them in finding examples in their own lives. For homework this week, they have a News-2-You due on Friday, their nightly reading and. their reading log due on Thursday. Please make sure that your child is putting their library books in their book bags on Wednesday nights. Student's who do not bring their library books back on Thursday will have their behavior card turned to yellow. I am really trying to push the issue of responsibility now that they are now 15 & 16 years old and should be able to remember to bring them back. They receive multiple reminders during the week as well as one on Wednesday prior to leaving school. Please make this THEIR RESPONSIBILITY NOT YOURS as this a crucial life skill that they will need to have when they gain employment in just 5 short years. I am aware that occasionally circumstances arise so a note or email from you is needed if they won't have their library book. After three times of forgetting their books they will have a "chat" with the grade level principal about responsibility. I do not mean to seem hard nosed about this but Amy & I cannot express the importance of this skill. The students have learned that if they were to forget a piece of their uniform in a job, etc. they would face disciplinary action by their employer after one time. They learned this while on the CBI trip to Longhorn Steakhouse so we have been spending LOTS of time discussing what responsibility looks like. You can encourage this at home by making them responsible for taking the trash cans out to the street for the weekly trash pick-up day. We have also talked about having a calendar at home that can help to remind you of your responsibilities.
12/10-12/14
The student's will have a sub the entire week and will be working on the News-2-You in class with the supplemental activities that accompany the classroom lesson version of the paper. They will be working on their holiday gift lists and work on a writing piece about about ways that we can "give" (to our families, friends, school and community) without having to physically give a tangible present. They will not have any homework assigned this week except for their nightly reading and library books & reading log due on Thursday. The students can use this week to study for any finals that they may have the following week. My final will not require them to study in advance for but some of the courses that your child is enrolled in will have modified study guides. Every core content course has a final exam.
12/17-12-20
Welcome to high school and the week of finals. It is CRUCIAL that you read below and understand how the week works. On Monday, the students will have a full day of school and have their final exam with me at the end of the day. On Tuesday-Thursday, they will only attend two of their courses where they will take their final exam for that class. If they are not being required to take a final exam for that class, there will be an activity for them to complete. As a result of this, the STUDENTS ARE DISMISSED AT 10:40AM ON TUESDAY 12/18, WEDNESDAY 12/19 AND THURSDAY 12/20 WITH NO SCHOOL ON FRIDAY 12/21. PLEASE EMAIL ME ANY CHANGE IN YOUR CHILD'S DAILY PICK-UP FOR THAT WEEK.
**IMPORTANT INFO**I will not see the students on Tuesday or Wednesday that week. The last day that I will see them prior to the holiday break will be on Thursday 12/20 during the 9:05-10:40 exam block. Some of you have contacted me about gifts for the para professionals that work directly with your child. I would suggest that you send them in on Monday 12/17 for distribution as your child's schedule that week is such that they may not see that para as they will also be assisting other student's with their finals.
** I will be out from 12/6-12/14 undergoing two surgeries that need be done sooner than later. The rod, plates, screws etc. that were placed in my right ankle/skin have begun to cause an issue and need to be removed from the leg. My body has begun to reject them and it is causing a great deal of pain, swelling and spasms. The bone fusion looks very good so the doctor's anticipate no complications with their removal. I will be able to walk on it as soon as the bruising and swelling subside and I can tolerate walking around on the 100 or so stitches on the bottom of my foot...ugh! After that portion of the surgery, the surgeons will move to my right hand and fuse it. I have been experiencing a great deal of weakness and pain where the hand bones butt up against the prosthetic wrist and the doctor's found many fractures, etc, all throughout that area. The plan is to fuse that hand (they did this to my left hand 4 years ago) in hopes of providing me relief and continued function of that hand/wrist, etc. The surgery and recovery on that is more involved and I will be casted for 2-3 months while we wait for the bones to fuse together. I am only taking off up until the last week before break (12/14) as I want to see the kids the week prior to the holiday break and wind up going stir crazy sitting around my house! I figure I'll probably need a cane to get around and the right arm will be casted and in a sling but at least there are NO wheelchairs involved and no talk of amputation this time so I'm coming back :) The para's will be subbing using my plans and a sub will step into their job so there shouldn't be much disrupt to their schedules. I am working until 10:00 am on Thursday and have to be at the hospital at 11:00am at St. Anthony's. I'll have to stay one or two nights there and plan on spending the weekend at my folks with Grace and will return to my casa on the 10th to finish healing prior to returning on Monday the 17th. I will be in touch with you all via the blog during the absence with updates, etc. and you are ALWAYS free to call me on my cell as I welcome a break in the boredom!
If I don't get a chance to personally see you prior to the winter break, please have a wonderful holiday filled with much love, laughter and fond memories! ~Anna
Sunday, November 18, 2012
11/19-11/20
What a short week we have! Only two days! There was not a new reading log assigned last Thursday nor will there be any homework assigned for this week in my classes. Enjoy the time off with your families and give thanks for the many blessings you have. I am very thankful to have each and every one of you in mine & Grace's life and am blessed that each day I get to be a part of your child's journey towards their futures.
On a side note, I was diagnosed with strep late last week so be on the lookout for the symptoms as you know how we love to share EVERYTHING with one another.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Anna & Grace
On a side note, I was diagnosed with strep late last week so be on the lookout for the symptoms as you know how we love to share EVERYTHING with one another.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Anna & Grace
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Reminder for Week of 11/12 - 11/16
I will post the week's lesson plans tomorrow night but wanted to remind you all that Wednesday, November 14 is an early release day in case you forgot and need to make arrangments for your child.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Week of 10/29-11/2
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!
Hello!
This week the students will have News-2-You as homework as well as their reading log. They will not get the News-2-You until Tuesday so don't panic if you don't see it on Monday. The News-2-You will be due on Friday and the reading log due on Thursday along with their library books. On Monday & Tuesday the students will be working on their Thank-You letter for the staff at Longhorn Steakhouse and typing them up. Wednesday is Halloween so we will be cooking a creepy lunch & playing fun games with the whole group. Look for the letter from Mrs. Eichorn that will be coming home in your child's folder on Monday asking for donations of ingredients towards our lunch as the funding has not come from SSD yet to purchase the groceries. Thursday is library day and I will be assessing each child on their reading progress. We will also be working on those Wh? questions. Friday we will focus on social skills with role-playing & discussion of scenarios that can be encountered in the school & community. I will also read from our Friday book, "The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane" while working on those listening comprehension skills. Please remember that the students do not have school on the following Monday & Tuesday.
On Wednesday, the students are welcome to wear their Halloween costumes to school but cannot wear any masks, hats, face paint, wigs, etc. I have been informed that many of the students do not dress up so please consider this when deciding whether or not to send your child in their costume. Since some of our kiddos are still into things that perhaps their same aged peers have grown beyond, some costumes depicting these characters may draw a certain amount of unwanted attention. Please contact me directly if you have any questions.
Have a great week!!
~Ms. Lay
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
CBI Trip to Longhorn Steakhouse with Mrs. Eichorn
Hello,
Today we went to LongHorn Steakhouse for a presentation on jobs they have available and expectations of an employee when having a job. The manager talked about being on time, asking for help, wearing a uniform, hygiene, following directions, showing initiative, taking criticism, etc. The jobs he discussed were server, dishwasher, napkin roller, utility worker, and service assistant (busser). He discussed the importance of working together in an environment like a restaurant, having communication skills with each other, and helping the customers. The server position and service assistant (buster) have the typical requirements that you would expect. The dishwasher takes the trash out in addition to washing dishes. The utility worker comes in at 7 am and does all the cleaning and table setup. They clean bathrooms, wipe tables and set them up, vacuum, and other special jobs. Then leave by 11. The last job was silverware roller and they polish and roll silverware. This position is not available at the Longhorn location in Sunset Hills. Other restaurant that have this position are Olive Garden, Red Lobster, and Longhorn in Chesterfield. This job is available at larger locations.
The students had the choice of hamburger, chicken strips, soup/salad, or sandwich (BBQ or steak sandwich)/salad, or sandwich and soup. They did great listening and using their manners while eating. Each student had a question to ask the manager during the presentation and they did great with this.
If you have any questions please let me know. Today was a great opportunity for the students and possible future connections in the community. The manager was looking forward to working with us in other ways.
Amy Eichorn
SSD Teacher
Work Experience Instructor
(314) 729-2400 ext. 1316
Voicemail 1802
Today we went to LongHorn Steakhouse for a presentation on jobs they have available and expectations of an employee when having a job. The manager talked about being on time, asking for help, wearing a uniform, hygiene, following directions, showing initiative, taking criticism, etc. The jobs he discussed were server, dishwasher, napkin roller, utility worker, and service assistant (busser). He discussed the importance of working together in an environment like a restaurant, having communication skills with each other, and helping the customers. The server position and service assistant (buster) have the typical requirements that you would expect. The dishwasher takes the trash out in addition to washing dishes. The utility worker comes in at 7 am and does all the cleaning and table setup. They clean bathrooms, wipe tables and set them up, vacuum, and other special jobs. Then leave by 11. The last job was silverware roller and they polish and roll silverware. This position is not available at the Longhorn location in Sunset Hills. Other restaurant that have this position are Olive Garden, Red Lobster, and Longhorn in Chesterfield. This job is available at larger locations.
The students had the choice of hamburger, chicken strips, soup/salad, or sandwich (BBQ or steak sandwich)/salad, or sandwich and soup. They did great listening and using their manners while eating. Each student had a question to ask the manager during the presentation and they did great with this.
If you have any questions please let me know. Today was a great opportunity for the students and possible future connections in the community. The manager was looking forward to working with us in other ways.
Amy Eichorn
SSD Teacher
Work Experience Instructor
(314) 729-2400 ext. 1316
Voicemail 1802
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Week of 10/22-10/26
This week the News-2-You will stay at school and we will do various activities with it. The theme of the paper is the World Series.
- On Monday, we will talk about the vocabulary words assigned to the theme. We will discuss the definitions and glue the pictures and written definitions into our personal dictionaries. We will then read through the paper as a class and the students will independently complete all the pages in the newspaper except for the writing section. The students will also complete a journal entry over their weekend activities and share with the group.
- Tuesday: We will review what we read on Monday and the students will answer the questions over the paper. The students will then identify three things that they remember from the paper and construct grammatically correct sentences that they will then share with the group. The students will then do an activity that involves putting words in the correct order to create a complete sentence. We will then discuss how in order to be on a baseball team, a person has to be able to practice "team work", "sportsmanship" and being the "best" member/person you can be. We will relate this to our own personal lives and discuss those examples. Students will be given the saying, "A team is only as strong as its weakest link" and we will discuss.
- Wednesday: Student's will participate in the functional activities that are designed and facilitated by Mrs. Eichorn.
- Thursday: Send in the library books as we will going to the library. Two selected students will navigate the campus and lead the class to the library. The students will check-out new books and we will spend sometime relaxing in the library and reading. At the end of the period, two different student's will then lead the class back to the classroom. I sometimes "block" certain hallways which requires the student's to find an alternate route back to the room in order for them to become more comfortable with navigating different ways throughout the campus. I then test each individual student on their reading progress using the AIMS web program. We will then work on more activities that relate to our News-2-You theme. The students will answer Wh? over the paper and we will create posters to hang up in the room about sportsmanship and team work. The students will complete a writing activity where they will identify a time in their life that they showed team work or good sportsmanship and write about it in their journal. They will then share these with the class where we will work on eye-contact, voice clarity and speech volume.
- Friday: Students will be assessed on their unit vocabulary words. We will then wrap up any assignments or activities that weren't completed earlier in the week. Student's that had a "green" week receive 30 minutes of "Friday Free-Time" where we play various board games. During this activity, we practice skills necessary for fair game play and friendship skills. Upon completion of this activity, we will watch a video clip showing team work and discuss the video clip as a group and how it relates to what we have been focusing on all week. The last 30 minutes of the day, I will read from the student chosen chapter book, "The Amazing Adventures of Edward Tulane".
WEEKLY REMINDERS: Tuesday and Thursday night are the Parent-Teacher Conferences. I will be available both nights so please make sure to sign up online for one of the time slots under my name. I look forward to meeting with you all to share the awesome progress that your child is making! So far, only two people have signed up and I'm hoping the rest of you will sign up tomorrow!!
As always, let me know if you have any questions, comments or concerns that I can help you with! Have a great week and GO CARDS!!!
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Special Olympics Bowling Practice Photos
We were able to bowl two games today at Show-Me Lanes. The students had an absolute blast and can't wait for the tournament! I will keep you posted as to when the exact date is so you can come and cheer your athlete on!
Upcoming Parent Workshops at SSD
November
Strategies for Learning Disabilities
Thursday, Nov. 1, 7-9 p.m.
Presenter: St. Louis Learning Disabilities Association
SSD Central Office, Room 61
Ideas for helping your child learn more effectively will be the focus of this workshop. Tips on helping with reading, spelling, math and memory tasks, with a focus on specific perceptual learning disabilities, will be included.
Transition Planning & the IEP: Through the Doorway to Adult Life
Thursday, Nov. 1, 7-9 p.m.
Presenter: Joann Noll
SSD Central Office, Room 60
Focus is on the steps parents and students need to consider as they plan for the last years of school and the transition to adult life: personal futures planning; IEPs with transitional goals and action plans; resources for planning for post-secondary education, supported employment and living; working with the adult service system; and funding through Regional Center, Vocational Rehabilitation and Social Security.
Positive Behavior Interventions
Monday, Nov. 5, 6-9 p.m.
Presenter: MPACT staff
SSD Central Office, Room 61
Participants will be taught to think about problem
behavior as a form of communication and will learn the importance of a functional behavioral assessment, how to reinforce positive behavior and how to develop a positive behavior support plan.
NEW!! Participate in the following workshop from home through WebEx. Be sure to supply your email address when registering to receive a link to the presentations.
Planning for the Future: Dealing with My Greatest Fears – 3-part workshop
Mondays, Nov. 5, 12, 19, 6:30-9 p.m.
SSD Central Office, Room 60
Series is designed to provide information to students and their families about the transition process and issues that cause anxiety for parents when planning for the post-school years.
• Session 1: Nov. 5 - SSI, Estate Planning & Guardianship
Presenters: Virginia Rice, Attorney and Joann Noll
• Session 2: Nov. 12 - What Happens After Graduation
Presenters: Representatives of Vocational Rehabilitation, supported employment agencies, sheltered workshops, continuing education
• Session 3: Nov. 19 - Supports for Recreation, Community Participation & Community Living
Presenters: Representatives of St. Louis Regional Office, Recreation Council, post-school enrichment/day programs
A Medical Perspective on Autism Spectrum Disorders
Wednesday, Nov. 7, 7-9 p.m.
Presenter: Daniel Reising, MD
SSD Central Office, Room 60
Dr. Reising, a pediatric psychiatrist and consultant to SSD, will present a medical perspective on the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders.
Helping Your Child with Homework
Thursday, Nov. 8, 7-9 p.m.
Presenter: St. Louis Learning Disabilities Association
SSD Central Office, Room 61
Session will feature a variety of practical strategies for helping your child with homework, including how to study for tests based on your child's learning style, and how to help your child develop more independence in completing homework.
Orientation for Parents to Special Education & the IEP Process
Thursday, Nov. 8, 7-9 p.m.
Presenter: Michelle Levi-Perez/Joann Noll
SSD Central Office, Room 57
(See Sept. 20 for description)
Understanding Asperger Syndrome –
2-part class
Tuesdays, Nov. 13 & 20, 6:30-9 p.m.
Presenter: Colleen O’Leary Card
SSD Central Office, Room 60
Identify and understand the social, communication, sensory and behavioral characteristics of Asperger syndrome and gain an awareness of effective, practical strategies that will support your child in being more successful at home and school. The second session will focus more on strategies, with time for discussion and questions.
Brain Gym – 2 sessions
Wednesdays, Nov. 14 & 21, 6-8 p.m.
Presenter: Kathy French
SSD Central Office, Room 60
Brain Gym is a program of physical activities that enhance learning ability. The easy-to-do, patterned movements target brain function to promote optimal learning, communication, stress management and creativity, and can prepare children with the physical skills they need in order to learn to read, write and function effectively in the classroom. Session 1 covers the background of Brain Gym and brain-based learning. Session 2 focuses on the application for using Brain Gym. Workshop is for parents, teachers and therapists. Resources will be provided.
Sharing Our Strengths Mentor Training
Wednesday, Nov. 14, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Presenter: LaRenda Hutt
SSD Central Office, Room 57
This Missouri-wide peer support network matches parents raising children with disabilities or special healthcare needs to other parents. Mentors share experiences, practical information, resources and offer emotional support. Expectations are a willingness to listen and the time to make a few phone calls or send a few e-mails.
Special Education Law
Monday, Nov. 19, 6-9 p.m.
Presenter: MPACT staff
SSD Central Office, Room 61
Training provides an overview of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, Safe Schools Act and No Child Left Behind.
Strategies for Learning Disabilities
Thursday, Nov. 1, 7-9 p.m.
Presenter: St. Louis Learning Disabilities Association
SSD Central Office, Room 61
Ideas for helping your child learn more effectively will be the focus of this workshop. Tips on helping with reading, spelling, math and memory tasks, with a focus on specific perceptual learning disabilities, will be included.
Transition Planning & the IEP: Through the Doorway to Adult Life
Thursday, Nov. 1, 7-9 p.m.
Presenter: Joann Noll
SSD Central Office, Room 60
Focus is on the steps parents and students need to consider as they plan for the last years of school and the transition to adult life: personal futures planning; IEPs with transitional goals and action plans; resources for planning for post-secondary education, supported employment and living; working with the adult service system; and funding through Regional Center, Vocational Rehabilitation and Social Security.
Positive Behavior Interventions
Monday, Nov. 5, 6-9 p.m.
Presenter: MPACT staff
SSD Central Office, Room 61
Participants will be taught to think about problem
behavior as a form of communication and will learn the importance of a functional behavioral assessment, how to reinforce positive behavior and how to develop a positive behavior support plan.
NEW!! Participate in the following workshop from home through WebEx. Be sure to supply your email address when registering to receive a link to the presentations.
Planning for the Future: Dealing with My Greatest Fears – 3-part workshop
Mondays, Nov. 5, 12, 19, 6:30-9 p.m.
SSD Central Office, Room 60
Series is designed to provide information to students and their families about the transition process and issues that cause anxiety for parents when planning for the post-school years.
• Session 1: Nov. 5 - SSI, Estate Planning & Guardianship
Presenters: Virginia Rice, Attorney and Joann Noll
• Session 2: Nov. 12 - What Happens After Graduation
Presenters: Representatives of Vocational Rehabilitation, supported employment agencies, sheltered workshops, continuing education
• Session 3: Nov. 19 - Supports for Recreation, Community Participation & Community Living
Presenters: Representatives of St. Louis Regional Office, Recreation Council, post-school enrichment/day programs
A Medical Perspective on Autism Spectrum Disorders
Wednesday, Nov. 7, 7-9 p.m.
Presenter: Daniel Reising, MD
SSD Central Office, Room 60
Dr. Reising, a pediatric psychiatrist and consultant to SSD, will present a medical perspective on the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders.
Helping Your Child with Homework
Thursday, Nov. 8, 7-9 p.m.
Presenter: St. Louis Learning Disabilities Association
SSD Central Office, Room 61
Session will feature a variety of practical strategies for helping your child with homework, including how to study for tests based on your child's learning style, and how to help your child develop more independence in completing homework.
Orientation for Parents to Special Education & the IEP Process
Thursday, Nov. 8, 7-9 p.m.
Presenter: Michelle Levi-Perez/Joann Noll
SSD Central Office, Room 57
(See Sept. 20 for description)
Understanding Asperger Syndrome –
2-part class
Tuesdays, Nov. 13 & 20, 6:30-9 p.m.
Presenter: Colleen O’Leary Card
SSD Central Office, Room 60
Identify and understand the social, communication, sensory and behavioral characteristics of Asperger syndrome and gain an awareness of effective, practical strategies that will support your child in being more successful at home and school. The second session will focus more on strategies, with time for discussion and questions.
Brain Gym – 2 sessions
Wednesdays, Nov. 14 & 21, 6-8 p.m.
Presenter: Kathy French
SSD Central Office, Room 60
Brain Gym is a program of physical activities that enhance learning ability. The easy-to-do, patterned movements target brain function to promote optimal learning, communication, stress management and creativity, and can prepare children with the physical skills they need in order to learn to read, write and function effectively in the classroom. Session 1 covers the background of Brain Gym and brain-based learning. Session 2 focuses on the application for using Brain Gym. Workshop is for parents, teachers and therapists. Resources will be provided.
Sharing Our Strengths Mentor Training
Wednesday, Nov. 14, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Presenter: LaRenda Hutt
SSD Central Office, Room 57
This Missouri-wide peer support network matches parents raising children with disabilities or special healthcare needs to other parents. Mentors share experiences, practical information, resources and offer emotional support. Expectations are a willingness to listen and the time to make a few phone calls or send a few e-mails.
Special Education Law
Monday, Nov. 19, 6-9 p.m.
Presenter: MPACT staff
SSD Central Office, Room 61
Training provides an overview of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, Safe Schools Act and No Child Left Behind.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Reminders for 9/15-9/19
1.) Don't forget to sign up for Parent Teacher conferences online for either 9/23 or 9/25.
2.) Tuesday 9/16 we will be doing the Special Olympics bowling from 10:00-12:00pm at Show-Me Lanes. This is just the practice and score gathering for the official tournament. Parents are asked to not attend this one but the actual tournament event. That date will be provided at a later time. Make sure you send your child in with a sack lunch and drink for that day.
3.) Wednesday 9/17 is the LPAC meeting at LHS. The topic will cover the use of technology in the classroom. Various presenters, including myself, will be sharing how we use technology in the classroom everyday.
4.) The students will have a new Homework Assignment journal starting Monday. It is larger, has more details as well as a place for your child to write one thing they did in each class for the day. This should help to provide you with more daily details and encourage independence while allowing for the kids to take some responsibility for providing you with some information The sheets will be in a three-pronged folder until the books we are having made have finished being bound & copied.
That's all I have to report for now!
2.) Tuesday 9/16 we will be doing the Special Olympics bowling from 10:00-12:00pm at Show-Me Lanes. This is just the practice and score gathering for the official tournament. Parents are asked to not attend this one but the actual tournament event. That date will be provided at a later time. Make sure you send your child in with a sack lunch and drink for that day.
3.) Wednesday 9/17 is the LPAC meeting at LHS. The topic will cover the use of technology in the classroom. Various presenters, including myself, will be sharing how we use technology in the classroom everyday.
4.) The students will have a new Homework Assignment journal starting Monday. It is larger, has more details as well as a place for your child to write one thing they did in each class for the day. This should help to provide you with more daily details and encourage independence while allowing for the kids to take some responsibility for providing you with some information The sheets will be in a three-pronged folder until the books we are having made have finished being bound & copied.
That's all I have to report for now!
Friday, October 5, 2012
LPAC Oct. 17th -- I'm presenting!
Be sure to attend the Oct. 17th LPAC meeting in the evening of the 17th as I have been asked to present on technology in the classroom. The kid's math teacher, Mr. Belding will also be presenting! Hope to see you all there!!
Changes in News-2-You Homework
I have decided that every other week the kids will bring home the News-2-You as homework and on the opposite weeks they will remain at school in their reading folders do we can do different activities and thematic unit work on them in the classroom. I am hoping that with the additional work on the "at school" weeks, it will increase their independence on these at home but also allow for us to do some major vocabulary and other supplemental activities. On the weeks that we are working on them at school, there will be alternative assignments coming home on two or three of the nights in either reading, writing or spelling. The dreaded spelling lists and tests are just around the corner...you should start seeing these after Halloween. Thanks!! Let me know if you have any questions!!
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Hello!
Lindbergh High School will be posting a link on their website where you can sign-up for conferences. The dates are October 23rd & 25th from 5-8pm. Each conference will only be 10 minutes long so this is a time with which you can check in with whatever teacher you sign-up for to meet to hear about your child's progress, offer any suggestions when working with your child, etc. There is not enough time for to have any lengthy conversations or discussions about your frustrations. Those should be scheduled for another day after school after you've made arrangements with that particular teacher. You will have to traverse the campus to get to where that teacher's classroom is so be prepared to do some walking. Transition times will be built into the schedules. I will be present both nights and as long as you don't schedule conferences with me back to back I should be able to allot for 20 minute conferences. I cannot emphasize enough that this is a great opportunity to meet with the staff. The kids SLP is Karen Scobbie for those of you wishing to meet with her. If you are not planning on attending either night please let me know. I hope that you all will sign-up to see me and any other teacher your child has. Administrators will also be on deck that night. The link is not up yet on the LHS website but check on Monday. Remember that there are over 2,000 families so the earlier you sign up the better, especially for the elective teachers. Let me know if you have any questions!
Lindbergh High School will be posting a link on their website where you can sign-up for conferences. The dates are October 23rd & 25th from 5-8pm. Each conference will only be 10 minutes long so this is a time with which you can check in with whatever teacher you sign-up for to meet to hear about your child's progress, offer any suggestions when working with your child, etc. There is not enough time for to have any lengthy conversations or discussions about your frustrations. Those should be scheduled for another day after school after you've made arrangements with that particular teacher. You will have to traverse the campus to get to where that teacher's classroom is so be prepared to do some walking. Transition times will be built into the schedules. I will be present both nights and as long as you don't schedule conferences with me back to back I should be able to allot for 20 minute conferences. I cannot emphasize enough that this is a great opportunity to meet with the staff. The kids SLP is Karen Scobbie for those of you wishing to meet with her. If you are not planning on attending either night please let me know. I hope that you all will sign-up to see me and any other teacher your child has. Administrators will also be on deck that night. The link is not up yet on the LHS website but check on Monday. Remember that there are over 2,000 families so the earlier you sign up the better, especially for the elective teachers. Let me know if you have any questions!
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
What does PALS stand for?
In response to the requests for what P.A.L.S actually stands for, it is:
Personalized
Academics
and
Life Skills
I came up with a program name in order to prevent the students from being referred to as "Room 49 kids" back when I was in the beginning stages of actually creating the program. There was a need to assign an actual name to the specialized program and so Mike Straatmann and I spent 2 years trying to come up with different names in order for the elementary schools to be able to explain to the families the different levels of services available for their child. Having the children identified by their classroom number gave a negative impression from the dark ages and didn't provide enough of an idea to what the program actually was...thus, PALS was born. The program is now known throughout the district by its name and has received recognition from surrounding districts as other district's staff have come to observe & visit me and ask how to get a program like this started in their district.
Personalized
Academics
and
Life Skills
I came up with a program name in order to prevent the students from being referred to as "Room 49 kids" back when I was in the beginning stages of actually creating the program. There was a need to assign an actual name to the specialized program and so Mike Straatmann and I spent 2 years trying to come up with different names in order for the elementary schools to be able to explain to the families the different levels of services available for their child. Having the children identified by their classroom number gave a negative impression from the dark ages and didn't provide enough of an idea to what the program actually was...thus, PALS was born. The program is now known throughout the district by its name and has received recognition from surrounding districts as other district's staff have come to observe & visit me and ask how to get a program like this started in their district.
Special Olympics Bowling
All sixteen kids of the Lindbergh School District P.A.L.S programs will be having their qualifying rounds on October 16th at Show Me Lanes. This isn't the one we invite the families to as this is just the practice to get their scores for lane placement at the actual tournament. The students are very excited and all are hoping to bring home the gold medal! I will post the actual tournament date when it becomes available.
Wednesday's activity
Below are some pictures I took while the kids were doing an "interview" activity. They worked on asking questions, eye-contact, sharing aloud and conversation skills...just to name a few! 
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Homecoming Events & Clarifications
Homecoming events:
Parade participants will meet at the Sperreng parking lot at 5:30 PM.
The parade will begin at 6:15 PM.
Our bonfire and hot dog cook out will take place at 7:00 PM at the high school.
Football game Friday night at 7:00 PM.
Dance is Saturday night at 7:00 PM in Gym 3.
Parade participants will meet at the Sperreng parking lot at 5:30 PM.
The parade will begin at 6:15 PM.
Our bonfire and hot dog cook out will take place at 7:00 PM at the high school.
Football game Friday night at 7:00 PM.
Dance is Saturday night at 7:00 PM in Gym 3.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Special Olympics Softball Reschedule
We were informed today that the Softball Tournament that has been held in the Fall for the last three years has been switched back to the Spring again. Therefore, the October 2nd softball tournament has been reschedule to April 4th at the Affton Athletic Association fields across from Grant's Farm. I will send more information in the Spring. After doing the Basketball Tournament last year in place of the Bowling Tournament, we are returning to the bowling event. The kids preferred the bowling to the basketball. We will be going to the bowling alley soon for our practice day prior to the actual event and will post those dates as soon as I receive them! Thanks!!
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Early Release Day on Sept. 12
Please don't forget that your child is being dismissed at 12:35 on Wednesday, September 12th. They cannot stay at school after that time so make sure you've made arrangements for them! Thanks!!
Homecoming Question
Parents,
As you know by now, Homecoming is quickly approaching! I was asked today how many of the kids are planning on attending the actual dance? If there is a large number then I may attend as the chaperone for the group but need to know how many are planning on attending. Please respond in the comments section on the blog or email me as soon as possible! You will need to check the LHS website regarding tickets, prices, times, etc. for more information! Please let me know ASAP! Thanks!
As you know by now, Homecoming is quickly approaching! I was asked today how many of the kids are planning on attending the actual dance? If there is a large number then I may attend as the chaperone for the group but need to know how many are planning on attending. Please respond in the comments section on the blog or email me as soon as possible! You will need to check the LHS website regarding tickets, prices, times, etc. for more information! Please let me know ASAP! Thanks!
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Newest Swimsuit Model
Check out this cutie! She's the newest infant swimsuit model for this company...and yes, she has Down Syndrome. It's about time that people with all types of abilities steals the spot light and shows the world just how beautiful diversity is'
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Math Class
The students have been working on telling time with Mr. Belding in their 5th hour! They really like him as you can see from their engagement in his lesson!
Thursday, September 6, 2012
LHS Library Days
Hello!
We will be going to the library every Thursday afternoon during my reading block with the kids. LHS & SSD each provided a considerable amount of money towards the purchase of several new book series (I did hand pick the series ordered based on the kids interests & some new ones) that are at the kids reading levels. Regardless of the due date on the book, they need to bring back the library books every Thursday to either turn in or recheck out. There is a new "section" in the library that has been set up just for these leveled books to make choosing them easier on the kids. It was AWESOME! Therefore, the assignment of reading for 20 minutes EVERY night is a standing order for all the kids! I will be sending home a weekly reading log sheet that is going to require parent signature every night indicating that your child read. It doesn't have to be the library book but has to be something that has words. :) This is going to count towards their reading grade for me so please do not dismiss this log. They will receive a new one each Thursday that is then due on the following Thursday. The kids will still be getting letter grades from me even though all their electives courses are graded on a Pass/Fail basis so this can either help or hurt their reading course grade. The kids MUST continue to practice their reading as this is such a crucial life skill that will carry them throughout their lives. If you ave any questions or concerns please contact me directly.
We will be going to the library every Thursday afternoon during my reading block with the kids. LHS & SSD each provided a considerable amount of money towards the purchase of several new book series (I did hand pick the series ordered based on the kids interests & some new ones) that are at the kids reading levels. Regardless of the due date on the book, they need to bring back the library books every Thursday to either turn in or recheck out. There is a new "section" in the library that has been set up just for these leveled books to make choosing them easier on the kids. It was AWESOME! Therefore, the assignment of reading for 20 minutes EVERY night is a standing order for all the kids! I will be sending home a weekly reading log sheet that is going to require parent signature every night indicating that your child read. It doesn't have to be the library book but has to be something that has words. :) This is going to count towards their reading grade for me so please do not dismiss this log. They will receive a new one each Thursday that is then due on the following Thursday. The kids will still be getting letter grades from me even though all their electives courses are graded on a Pass/Fail basis so this can either help or hurt their reading course grade. The kids MUST continue to practice their reading as this is such a crucial life skill that will carry them throughout their lives. If you ave any questions or concerns please contact me directly.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
LHS Information
If you have specific questions about a course your child is enrolled in, please email that teacher. Any assignments are located in the Homework/Parent Notes section of their binder/folder. Feel free to look through the specific course folders to see what they have been doing but if there isn't an assignment in the manilla homework file folder & it isn't written in the assignment book then there isn't any homework for that course! The majority of their homework will come from myself or their math teacher & will be written down. Concerns? Then contact me.
If you have overall concerns or questions regarding your child that are not course specific, please contact me as I am your child's case manager.
Please remember that you can check the LHS website to see the events & happenings around LHS.
*PLEASE NOTE** THE ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE NOW ALSO ON THE WEBSITE. YOU CAN FIND THEM UNDER LHS - NEW AND EVENTS - ANNOUNCEMENTS AND ATTENDANCE.
If you have overall concerns or questions regarding your child that are not course specific, please contact me as I am your child's case manager.
Please remember that you can check the LHS website to see the events & happenings around LHS.
*PLEASE NOTE** THE ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE NOW ALSO ON THE WEBSITE. YOU CAN FIND THEM UNDER LHS - NEW AND EVENTS - ANNOUNCEMENTS AND ATTENDANCE.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Change in Schedule
Just an FYI that to accommodate the time differences between the two schools, the kids will be receiving their math instruction from SSD teacher Matt Belding during their 5th hour. I will arrive after math @ 12:30 and teach their Reading & Writing. Mrs. Eichorn should be returning from maternity leave in early September & we will look at some of the CBI & Functional activities to be scheduled on Wednesdays. Open House is next week and I will be available from 7-8pm in room 316.
LHS Homecoming & Green Machine
The LHS Homecoming Dance is on September 22nd. Remember to check the LHS website for upcoming events and games.
Please send in $10 cash or check made payable to LHS on Monday to purchase a "Green Machine" shirt! These are worn on Fridays by students & staff and the proceeds help to fund various activities that the kids can attend with teacher support. Call Mary Topping at ext. 1316 or Barb Gregston for more information.
Please send in $10 cash or check made payable to LHS on Monday to purchase a "Green Machine" shirt! These are worn on Fridays by students & staff and the proceeds help to fund various activities that the kids can attend with teacher support. Call Mary Topping at ext. 1316 or Barb Gregston for more information.
Friday, August 3, 2012
MAP-A Scores are In
As if we needed more proof that the PALS kids were amazing, the state MAP-A scores came in. Though it took me 2 months to compile over 500 pages of evidence, data and explanations as to how smart these guys are in comparison to others taking the MAP-A throughout the state of Missouri... it payed off big! EVERY SINGLE STUDENT in PALS scored Advanced in math, communication arts, and science!! WOO HOO!!!! They only needed Proficient for the district & state to be satisfied but in usual PALS style, we went above & beyond and BLEW the roof off! Congratulations to my wonderful students and families! Now THAT deserves an extra scoop of ice-cream, don't ya think?! See you all soon!!!!
Thursday, August 2, 2012
LHS Supply List for Ms. Lay's classes
Supply List
With this being the tax-free weekend I wanted to make sure to give you the supply list for my classes. Your student will no-doubt come home from their electives on the first day with additional supplies that may be needed for those courses so these are just the things that they will need for their afternoon of academic’s with me J . I have very limited space in this classroom so I will be using bins for each child’s supplies (no desks, only tables) and they will be utilizing their locker space A LOT! Please bring all the supplies to your Pre-staffing meeting the day before school in bags tied up with “Ms. Lay supplies” labeled all over the bags or send on the first day in bags labeled the same way.
a) 5 durable pocket folders (1-red; 1-green; 1-blue; 2- your choice design,etc.)
b) 2 packages of wide-rule loose-leaf paper
c) 1 pair of scissors (please get adult sized as the little ones just don’t cut it anymore J)
d) 2 Large glue sticks
e) 1 package of markers
f) 1 large zippered pencil case (the fabric style preferred)
g) 1 ruler (with inches, cm, mm )
h) 2 packages of post-it notes
i) 1 package of colored pencils
j) 2 spiral notebooks (wide-rule, single-subject)
k) 2 boxes of #2 pencils
l) 1 package of index cards
m) Erasers (variety of pencil toppers/rectangle one)
n) 1 lock (for hallway locker) w/ 2 keys
o) A lanyard (for their locker key & their student ID that they will be required to wear)
p) 4 dry erase markers (any color, width, etc.)
q) 1 wipe board eraser
r) 2 boxes of Kleenex
s) 1 USB flash drive (label w/ their name)—there is only one computer in the classroom so the kids may be having to use the ones in the library, etc. until I tackle that issue…(I did get $5000 donated & was able to actually purchase library reading materials for the LHS library that our guys can actually read…yes, I have many issues to address while designing this program for LHS)
THAT’S IT…All of my supplies & extra’s are at Sperreng so I don’t have extra scissors, erasers, etc. on hand for them if needed since this is only my ½ time home for a year while I get the program up & running.
· We are doing functional/cooking on Wednesday afternoon’s with the older group but don’t need cooking cash this year as Lindbergh & SSD will be picking up all that tab…finally J More to come later on that!
Lind. High School Supply List 2012-2013
Hello!!
I am working my tail off on an extensive email as we speak loaded with beginning of year information, important dates & supplies the kids will need for the start of the school year at Lindbergh High School. There is WAY too much information to cover to use the blog so look at your email this evening for all of the information. I will also post just the supplies needed on the blog but you MUST read the email first as it is very time sensitive. Please bare with me as I am also a "freshman" this year at the high school and am waiting on two more email responses to questions that I know you all will have to be answered by this afternoon. Check back this evening for the supplies and your email acct. that I have used during the previous school year.
Anna
I am working my tail off on an extensive email as we speak loaded with beginning of year information, important dates & supplies the kids will need for the start of the school year at Lindbergh High School. There is WAY too much information to cover to use the blog so look at your email this evening for all of the information. I will also post just the supplies needed on the blog but you MUST read the email first as it is very time sensitive. Please bare with me as I am also a "freshman" this year at the high school and am waiting on two more email responses to questions that I know you all will have to be answered by this afternoon. Check back this evening for the supplies and your email acct. that I have used during the previous school year.
Anna
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Prom Pictures
I am starting to compile all the pictures from Prom and will be sending you an email with a link to the album where you can order pictures, albums, etc. through Snapfish. It is a free site so you may have to register to order them. I will also be burning CD's with all the pictures and get those to you all this summer. I had a wonderful weekend in Chicago with Tom and I came home Monday to pick up Grace, feed the cats and we are heading back on Friday for another week. It's wonderful being away from the paperwork but certainly not the kids. Looking forward to seeing you all this summer!! Post pictures of your various adventures:) Much love to you all!
Monday, May 21, 2012
CALLING ALL PHOTOS
Please check your email as I just sent an email requesting you all to send me all your Prom photos via email, SD card, CD, flash drive, etc. ASAP. You will see why once you read your email! Thanks!!!!
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Friday, May 18, 2012
Wednesday's 8th Grade Graduation
The students from the PALS program are graduating at 8:00am at the Lindbergh High School Auditorium on Wed. May 23rd. Hope to see you all there!!
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Six Flags Update
We are having an absolute blast!! You will be SHOCKED to know that every single kid had ridden a roller coaster of some kind & LOVED it! It's amazing what our kids will try when with their friends & a crazy teacher who rides EVERYTHING! 
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