Friday Focus - November 4, 2011

• This was a great week for me in getting to meet with grade level teams and with individual teachers during our data chats.  Thank you to our teachers for reaffirming my belief that this is one of the best groups that anyone could ever work with.  You were prepared to discuss students' strengths and weaknesses, you were able to discuss multiple forms of data, and you stated how you would help each child grow throughout the school year.  I feel privileged to work with you in helping our students achieve to their highest level.   
• Zak and Adam will be here today to assist you with any technology issues.  
• Report Cards are due next Tuesday to Team Leaders for their review and then to Administration next Thursday.
• Names of Honor Roll students (grades 3-5) and Terrific Kids (all grades) are due next Thursday.  Terrific Kids will be honored on the afternoon of November 18 in the Media Center.  
• Dr. Lewis and I will be beginning teacher "hold harmless" observations next week.  Teachers, please be aware that we will bring our laptops with us as the observation instrument is online.  Please remember that these "observations" are just for practice. 

Quote of the week - I thought I'd try a poem this week...

Success

by: Ralph Waldo Emerson

To laugh often and much;
To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children;
To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends;
To appreciate beauty,
To find the best in others,
To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child,
A garden patch or a redeemed social condition;
To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.
This is to have succeeded.