TED Talk of the Week
The TED Talk for this week is a visual representation of "The Four Seasons" by Antonio Vivaldi. Perfect, for a bit of relaxation while on holiday.
Thank you!
- Eric, Cody, Rhys, Jordanna, Dan H, and Patricia, for volunteering to host the Korean teachers from the Department of Education.
- Allan, Francis, Mareena, Sarah Ko, and Bo for organizing and watching G2 students audition for the Annie Kids musical.
- Dan W, Michelle, Sean, and Sara for preparing and taking our ES team to the World Scholars competition. Overall, KISJ did very well thanks to your guidance.
- Patricia, Margaret, Kelly, and Juhee, for welcoming parents into your classrooms to prepare Korean traditional dishes with students. It is wonderful to see parents working with students as they explore Korean culture.
- Scott, Judy, Mareena, Madeleine, Allan, and Amber Kim, for planning, organizing, running and coaching during the ES Swim Meet on Wednesday. You all provided the opportunity for our students to feel the thrill of racing and working together!
Communication in the ES
This week our G2 students auditioned for Annie Kids, the 2nd grade musical. I had the pleasure of watching some of these auditions and speaking with parents including the PAB. The parents are extremely thankful that our 2nd-grade students have this opportunity. We are sending a clear message to our community that KISJ values the arts and we place a high priority on giving students authentic opportunities to practice their oracy skills.
Let’s Chat
This week I have 3 times booked for you to come in and chat or I can come to your classroom to read.
Tuesday 1:30 to 2:00
Wednesday 10:30 to 11:00
Thursday 12:00 to 12:30
The Months Ahead (February)
In response to feedback, here is the schedule for the months ahead. The purpose of this information is to provide clarity as you plan ahead and prioritize tasks.
The biggest task for Jan & Feb is the Annual Order. Here are the guidelines and forms. Your TL will be able to guide you through the process but come see me if you have any questions.
Dates to Remember
Feb 15 - Leads examine and submit the orders to Principals
Feb 15 - Leads examine and submit the orders to Principals
Feb 23 - Make-up day for inclement weather (not needed yet)
Additional Information:
From Sunshine
The 4th Annual KIS Chili-Cook Off will occur Saturday, February 16th, 5:30-7: 30 pm at Jein Pizza. Click here for a map.
- 10 delicious pizzas will be purchased for you by the Sunshine Committee to snack on during your time of sampling the chili! Beer, wine, and soda will be available for purchase.
- The chili cook-off champion will receive a gift card to America Roll and Sushi courtesy of the Sunshine Committee.
- If you’d like to participate in the chili cook-off, or would just like to attend the event, please RSVP here by Wednesday, February 13 (right after Lunar break)
Updates From Mareena
Happy Lunar New Year!
Technology statement
Please review this proposed technology statement for our ES Faculty Guide. Any feedback, questions, or concerns can be sent directly to Mareena, before we adopt this as our common ES agreement.
At KISJ, we expect all faculty to use technology as a tool for communication, teaching, learning, and collaboration.
As professionals, we are present and engaged with our colleagues and students.
Technology is used purposeful and intentional, If the technology does not improve the situation, then an alternative is used.
We use technology to check for and communicate important information and updates.
Non-work related technology use is limited to emergencies during student contact hours.
PGP Clarification
For the announced observation, the "Classroom environment" section will be marked as N/A. The list that was included as a part of the template included both positive and negative classroom environment descriptors that were not a part of the focus of the observation.
During the unannounced observation, we will comment in the classroom environment section using the descriptors from the emotional safety rubric, skill 1: Creates a learning environment that optimizes student learning.
During the unannounced observation, we will comment in the classroom environment section using the descriptors from the emotional safety rubric, skill 1: Creates a learning environment that optimizes student learning.
Safety Vests
In order to continue to ensure students are safe and staff are visible during duties on the ES/MS field, we will be ordering vests (similar to something like this) that will be worn by those on duty at this location. We will also be looking into the same for our fire drill procedures. While this stylish accessory will not complement your professional attire, it will ensure that students and adults can find help easily.
Classroom Communication
It is important to continue to ensure consistent communication is sent from homeroom and specialist area teachers, per the ES Faculty Guide. The update should be sent through email weekly (homerooms) or bi-weekly (specialists), with Mareena, Bonnie, and April copied. Those using Seesaw, please look for a message from Mareena on how to confirm with parents the updates you are sending.
We will also begin ES division-wide communication to parents after the holiday. Consistent information sharing is important and establishes trust and a stronger partnership between the school and home. It is our collective responsibility to ensure we all help to maintain the communication channels that have been established.
Updates From Ryk
PD Event
Heinemann are offering an online PD event, 'Supporting English Learners in the Reading Workshop' by Lindsey Moses. There is a cost for this event.
If you are interested please let Jim or I know. It starts on Jan 28, but registration is still open. The course consists of four, 75-minute webinars, each starting at 4 pm EST (6 am our time). If you can’t get up the energy to PD at 6:00 am, these webinars are recorded and made available to all participants the following day. A bit of 'breakfast PD'! Check it out if you are interested. Here is a link to the flyer.
Calkins ‘Office Hours’ Webinar
On Jan 21 I forwarded information about the 'TCRWP Office Hours' events. This is a direct conversation with Lucy Calkins and other members of the TC team for 1 hour. The email has the recording from the last event on January 17, as well as a sign-up for the next event on Thursday February 7, 4:00pm-5:00pm EST (that's Friday Feb 6, at 6:00am our time). Sign up if you're interested. It's free!
Updates From Mr. Vento
What a whirlwind three weeks it has been to start semester 2! During this time, I have focused on gaining a better understanding of each division through listening, observing and engaging in dialogue with as many people as possible. It is a privilege and honor to learn alongside everyone that makes up our amazing KISJ team.
Announcements
On Friday, February 15 all teachers and staff are requested to meet at 8:00 am in the HS PAC for a school-wide meeting. The purpose of this meeting is to acknowledge the transition we are currently experiencing and identify short and longer-term goals for the direction of KISJ. Our Director of Teaching & Learning, Dr. Rick Odum will also address the next steps for our WASC focus groups. A light breakfast for all will be served outside of the HS PAC.
It is with mixed emotions I share the news that Mr. Charley Byoung Kon Kim and Ms. Karen Seung-Jung Lee will be leaving KISJ effective February 20. Charley and Karen have been with KISJ from the very beginning. As our first and only Head Nurse, Karen has supported, cared for, and directly touched the lives of nearly every member of our KISJ community. Currently, our ES/MS Operation Support Team Manager, Charley has also led our HS Dorm Office team and Admissions team. The contributions Karen and Charley have had in KISJ developing into an outstanding boarding school cannot be overstated. Thank you from all of us for your hard work and many contributions. Personally and professionally, we will miss your experience, leadership, collaboration, and warm hearts. We wish you and your sons the best of luck with your new adventures in the United States and look forward to our paths crossing again.
On a personal note, thank you for the many messages of support and encouragement. During this time of transition, it will be crucial for us to face challenges together with a positive outlook and a growth mindset. I would especially like to thank the members of our Senior Leadership Team for their support, patience, and collaboration. What a great team of learning leaders!
I wish everyone a very happy lunar new year! 새해 복 많이 받으세요
Communication in the ES
Your feedback is appreciated as the ES strives to improve communication. As always, submissions are confidential. I have posted the QR code on my office door for continued feedback as the year progresses.
Here is the ES Suggestion Box. This form is for ideas, solutions or comments about issues that matter to the ES community.
Sunshine Weekly
PD Schedule
2/15 - WACS
2/22 - WASC
Upcoming DRAGON Dialogue
March 19th - Parent Choice
May 8th - Class Placement
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