Month: January 2024
Sokolowski Weekly Updates (for 1/29/24)
In honor of the 90th day!
Here are a few reminders to help you start your week.
PLTs
Coverages (updated 1/19)
No grade level PLTs as this is observation week for strategy study.
Monday 1/29- HOmie Ambassador
Thursday 2/1 – CRT Team
*NEW*– If a paraprofessional/teacher team would like a paraprofessional to attend a PLT, please contact Nate to arrange coverage. It does not have to be every week and can be based on the topic.
Specialist +
As discussed at the staff meeting, even though we do not have grade-level PLTs, we will still have Specialist +. Specialists will assume you are attending with your class. If you are using that time for prep because you are observing a class during your regular prep, please email the Specialist. If you have any questions about this process, please reach out.
Strategy Study Observations
Here is the observation schedule document. There are still a few names that still need to be added. Please double-check that your name and partner are added.
I will send out coverages closer to your observation date.
Black History Month Timeline
Here are the detailed slides for more information.
Please use the signup sheet to sign up for a KEY FIGURE you and your class will research and add to our School-Wide Black History Timeline. If you want to research someone not mentioned, feel free to add a row at the bottom!
Thanks to Brittany Hickson for taking the lead on this project.
ESL MTEL Prep Opportunity
DESE is excited to share that in partnership with University Instructors, LLC, they have developed an English as a Second Language (54) MTEL Test Preparation Course. This course is freely available to candidates on the Department’s website here: ESL MTEL Test Prep Course – Overview (mass.edu) The course consists of 10 modules and includes practice items. Please share this new resource with any relevant candidates who are preparing to take the English as a Second Language (54) MTEL.
Copy Center: Color Copies
The color copy machine at CHS is currently down due to required servicing. They currently have a backlog of 135 requests for color copies.
I was asked to encourage you to use black and white copies until the machine can get back up and running and the backlog reduced.
Sokolowski Weekly Updates (for 1/22/24)
These pictures didn’t make it into Superintendent Updates. Enjoy!
Shout out to the MLE Department and all those who have helped make sure ACCESS is running smoothly! Thank you, and keep up the great work!
Here are a few reminders to help you start your week.
PLTs
Coverages (updated 1/19)
PLTs will focus on Panorama survey data led by the SEL team.
Tuesday 1/23 – 1st Grade
Wednesday 1/24 – 2nd Grade
Thursday 1/25 – 3rd Grade
Friday 1/26 – 4th grade
*NEW*– If a paraprofessional/teacher team would like a paraprofessional to attend a PLT, please contact Nate to arrange coverage. It does not have to be every week and can be based on the topic.
Staff Meeting 1/23
As you know, staff meeting on Tuesday will focus on putting our learning from strategy study into practice. You are encouraged to bring your lesson plans or other resources to the staff meeting because you will have planning and collaborating time. If you have questions or clarification on what to bring, don’t hesitate to contact your team member facilitating your PLT, Cam, or Nate.
Music Room Moving Day
Starting Monday, January 22nd music classes will be held in room S213. This is the large music room, near the nurse and across the hallway from the shark tank. Thanks again to the Kelly School for sharing their space with us for the past 90 days of school.
The phone extension for the new room is:
X61735 (also listed on the staff directory)
State Ethics Commission: Conflict of Interest Law Training Assignments
Did you get this email? If so, this training needs to be done by public employees every two years. So you may have received this email if you’re new to CPS this year or didn’t otherwise complete the training last year, you’re responsible for doing the full training now. It takes about 10 minutes. It has short video clips, “what if?” scenarios, and a little quiz to pass.
If you got the email, follow these steps:
- click the link
- press the green “launch button”
- Read the guidelines in their entirety (the examples and non-examples of violations are helpful)
- Check to affirm you’ve read it
MCAS Dates
- ELA- (3/25-4/26)
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- 3rd grade: 4/2 & 4/3
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- 4th grade: 4/9 & 4/10
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- Math-(4/23-5/24)
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- 3rd grade: 5/14 & 5/15
- 4th grade: 5/16 & 5/17
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Important- Paraprofesional Lunch Assignment
Please see the updated lunch assignments. Paraprofessionals are expected to supervise tables, keep students safe, monitor students, and help them clean up- assigned on the document HERE.
Please reach out with questions.
iReady Assessment
We know January brings many assessments. We also know that managing and planning time to prioritize these assessments can be demanding. Please see the guidelines below for testing:
- iReady Assessment Scheduling Guidelines
- Use corresponding content area blocks on two consecutive days (ELA- use Read Together, Math- use math block).
- Testing window opens 1/29
- All whole group testing should be done by 2/9
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- We suggest picking one week for ELA and the other week for math. You should not administer both tests in a given day.
- Before selecting your testing days, please coordinate with MLE teachers so we can plan supports and possible adjustments to the ACCESS schedule.
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- Action Required: Once you determine your dates, please complete this GOOGLE FORM to document testing days and times. Please complete by 1/24
- Makes up and extra time (by 2/15):
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- Students requiring more time should use flex blocks (math to grow and read to grow)
- Make up should be facilitated in class and can be done during a content block and/or flex blocks.
- Or at a preferred time that will minimize disruption to learning.
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Reminder: Once a test is open, students will need to finish that test before being able to go back on My Path. Please plan your use of My Path accordingly.
These are just guidelines, and we understand each classroom has its own needs and context. We trust you to be autonomous and work within the guidelines. However, if you have questions or need support making a plan, please reach out to anyone on the ILT. We are happy to help!
Sokolowski Weekly Updates (for 1/15/24)
I hope you had a pleasant and rejuvenating long weekend.
Here are a few reminders to help you start your week.
PLTs
Coverages (updated 1/1)
PLTs will focus on Strategy Study Launch, Survey, and Modules.
Tuesday 1/16 – 1st Grade
Wednesday 1/17 – 2nd Grade
Thursday 1/18 – 3rd Grade
Friday 1/19 – 4th grade
*NEW*– If a paraprofessional/teacher team would like a paraprofessional to attend a PLT, please contact Nate to arrange coverage. It does not have to be every week and can be based on the topic.
Important- Paraprofesional Lunch Assignment
Please see the updated lunch assignments. Paraprofessionals are expected to supervise tables, keep students safe, monitor students, and help them clean up- assigned on the document HERE.
Please reach out with questions.
iReady Assessment
We know January brings many assessments. We also know that managing and planning time to prioritize these assessments can be demanding. Please see the guidelines below for testing:
- iReady Assessment Scheduling Guidelines
- Use corresponding content area blocks on two consecutive days (ELA- use Read Together, Math- use math block).
- Testing window opens 1/29
- All whole group testing should be done by 2/9
-
- We suggest picking one week for ELA and the other week for math. You should not administer both tests in a given day.
- Before selecting your testing days, please coordinate with MLE teachers so we can plan supports and possible adjustments to the ACCESS schedule.
-
- Action Required: Once you determine your dates, please complete this GOOGLE FORM to document testing days and times. Please complete by 1/24
- Makes up and extra time (by 2/15):
-
- Students requiring more time should use flex blocks (math to grow and read to grow)
- Make up should be facilitated in class and can be done during a content block and/or flex blocks.
- Or at a preferred time that will minimize disruption to learning.
-
Reminder: Once a test is open, students will need to finish that test before being able to go back on My Path. Please plan your use of My Path accordingly.
These are just guidelines, and we understand each classroom has its own needs and context. We trust you to be autonomous and work within the guidelines. However, if you have questions or need support making a plan, please reach out to anyone on the ILT. We are happy to help!
Music Room Moving Day- COMING SOON!
Starting Monday, January 22nd music classes will be held in room S213. This is the large music room, near the nurse and across the hallway from the shark tank. Thanks again to the Kelly School for sharing their space with us for the past 90 days of school.
The phone extension for the new room is:
X61735 (also listed on the staff directory)
Hearing and Vision Make-ups
Heads up, on your PLT day, Angela, Tavares, and the hearing/vision tech will be pulling the students who need to make up the screener. She will call the room or pick the student up.
Specialist Time Reminder (1st and 4th)
On Thursday 1st grade will have specialist at 1:05.
On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, 4th grade will have specialist at 1:05.
Early Release Day Reminder
February 14th is an early release day.
MCAS Dates
- ELA- (3/25-4/26)
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-
-
- 3rd grade: 4/2 & 4/3
- 4th grade: 4/9 & 4/10
-
-
- Math-(4/23-5/24)
-
-
- 3rd grade: 5/14 & 5/15
- 4th grade: 5/16 & 5/17
-
Fly Eagles Fly!
Sokolowski Weekly Updates (for 1/8/24)
(The mythical Snow Shark)
Here are a few reminders to help you start your week.
PLTs
Coverages (updated 1/1)
PLTs will focus on Math planning and reflection.
Tuesday 1/9 – 1st Grade
Wednesday 1/10 – 2nd Grade
Thursday 1/11 – 3rd Grade
Friday 1/12 – 4th grade
*NEW*– If a paraprofessional/teacher team would like a paraprofessional to attend a PLT please reach out to Nate, so coverage can be arranged. It does not have to be every week and can be based on the topic.
Staffing Update
As most of you noticed, Jessica Guy will be holding down the science specialist position until Cristina returns. Thanks, Jessica!
HOMies Update
The HOMies Ambassador Team would like to highlight the amazing work you are all doing with the HOMies this year! When you utilize or highlight the HOMies in your classroom or instruction, please take a quick photo and add it with a short caption to this slide deck. If you have a HOMies display in your classroom or have found a useful system for organizing the HOMies materials, please add a photo and short caption to this slide deck. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the HOMies Newsroom Team (aka Colleen and Carla)!
HOMies Displays & Organization
Parent Square
Happy New Year!
Now is a great time to reconnect with parents and families via ParentSquare! Connect with families and wish them a Happy New Year! and get them reacquainted with the class and class happenings. Just a reminder that school and district expectations are to post in Parent Square on a regular basis. You can post updates on what students are working on in class, reminders of school events, and a celebration of all the great work happening in your classrooms! Please make sure that students have signed a media release for pictures which can be found in x2 and paperwork students returned at the beginning of the year.
Parent conferences appointment sign ups were done complex-wide using ParentSquare in November. The Digital Learning Coaches welcome any feedback on the process and if there are any suggestions on the signup process. We hope to keep this process in place for future parent conferences.
Need refresher info? Check out the slides from the beginning of the year with many resources. Please reach out with any questions or if you need support! Happy to help!
Thanks!
Mercy
Copy Center Update
The Copy Center reports that they have been receiving a large volume of color copy requests in recent months, and we only have one large size color copier available to process them.
Please consider whether black/white could be an option for the print, and if color is definitely needed, they should leave extra time for the Copy Center to get the job done. The backlog gets particularly deep in the weeks when report cards are being printed.
Instructional Rounds
- A team of CPS coordinators, administrators, and central office staff will visit the Sokolowski School on Thursday, January 11, to participate in Instructional Rounds. These Instructional Rounds are designed to help leadership teams at each CPS school look closely at what is happening in classrooms in a systematic, purposeful, and focused way.
- Any classroom could receive a 15-minute visit from a group of 3-4 CPS colleagues between 9:15-10:15. They will be looking for evidence of (so we ensure our lessons have):
- Objectives posted and communicated to kids
- quality of expressive language used by students (speaking or writing)
- DOK levels 3 and above.
- If you have any questions, please reach out to Nate or Cam.
Exciting Opportunity – February Acceleration Academy
Hey Sharks,
Exciting news! Chelsea Public Schools has secured the Acceleration Academy grant for 2024, and they’re on the lookout for passionate teachers to join the team during February vacation and earn $4000. Here’s the scoop:
What’s Fresh:
This year, the state is entrusting local districts with more control, and Chelsea Public Schools is embracing the positive changes.
What’s Offered:
Educators can seize the opportunity to teach during February and contribute to a hands-on, project-based learning experience at the Complex. For those with a knack for ELA, it’s an ideal chance to make an impact.
Application Process:
Interested teachers, both internal and external, can apply through the CPS posting HERE. Ensure to complete the associated Google Form to finalize your application.
Question:
For any questions or additional information, please feel free to reach out to Malik.
Contact Person: Malik Howshan – Officer of Innovation, Access, and Opportunity (howshanm@chelseaschools.com)
This is an exceptional chance to be part of something impactful in February. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to contribute to a rewarding learning experience.
Sokolowski Weekly Updates (for 1/2/24)
Happy New Year, Sharks!
Here are some announcements to help you start your week.
PLTs
Coverages (updated 1/1)
Tuesday 1/2 – No PLT
Wednesday 1/3 – 4th-grade Fishtank Launch Planning (8:20-9:40) (coverage email sent)
Thursday 1/4 – 1st-grade Fishtank Launch Planning (8:20-9:40)(coverage email sent)
– CRT Team (coverage email sent)
Friday 1/5 – Teaching and Learning Team (coverage assignments- coming later this week)
Welcome to the Team
Welcome (officially) to the Shark family, our newest paraprofessional, Paula Vargas. Paula is not new to the building as she started with us as an ESS sub and now she is a full time Shark and will be working in 112. Thanks for welcoming her to the team!
ACCESS Test
As we approach the ACCESS testing window, 1/3 to 2/9, we wanted to provide some key information to ensure a smooth process for our MLLs.
→ WHAT?
The ACCESS test assesses MLL’s English language proficiency. This information is important for tailoring our instructional approaches and support to meet the unique needs of each student.
→ WHY?
Taking the test seriously ensures accurate assessment results, which helps us to provide the necessary resources and support to enhance our MLLs’ language skills.
→ Testing Schedule:
The MLE team has been working diligently to minimize the impact on instruction, especially Tier I blocks. Each identified MLL will be required to complete four parts (listening, reading, speaking, and writing) on different days. We ask for your patience and flexibility due to the high number of students taking the test.
You can find the detailed weekly schedule HERE.
→ Practice:
During the first week after the break, we will only be conducting practice tests to help students familiarize themselves with the format. Moving forward, grade-level MLEs will be the primary point of contact for any schedule updates or changes, with at least one week’s notice.
Thank you for your dedication to our students’ success. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to your grade level MLE or Cam.
Specialist +
We will officially start Round 3 the week of 1/8.
Reach out if you have any questions.
Planning Ahead
- January 4 – ACCESS parent information meetings (8:30 and 5:00 in the Kelly/Berko cafeteria)
- January 5 – Artifacts are due for all educators on one-year cycles.
- January 9 – Faculty Meeting
- January 11 – Instructional Rounds
- January 12 December Red Triangles (nominations due 1/5)
- January 15 – No School: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- January 23 – Staff Meeting
- January 28 – Pyramid of Success School Meeting-Self Control & Alertness
- January 29 – iReady testing window opens