Opportunity Statement: Coolidge Elementary will continue to provide all students with academic, social, and emotional growth opportunities through great teaching and the utilization of our community resources. We will maintain high expectations for all students, as well as expand our efforts to cultivate a positive school culture that encourages intellectual and social growth.”
Coolidge Vision and Mission
Our Mission: “Educate students for lifelong learning and responsible living.”
Our Vision: “Provide a learning environment that promotes and develops academic and
social growth.”
Rise N Shine - Rolland
Informal Observations Continue. Please remember that everyone must complete a Growth Plan in IObservation, even if they are not being officially observed this school year.
Tuesday, Sept 18 Committee Meetings:
Safe Schools/Healthy Lifestyles - A121
PBIS - O'Shield's Room
FAC - Art Room
Parents Nights/Reading Night - Instructional Coaches Room
Please be sure you complete Agenda/Sign in Sheet on the Google Drive., https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Rbn7nb_WkmLEu_7zCQs--CJ6HDfyWit7?usp=sharing
PREK - District wide meeting.
Temple Grandin, diagnosed with autism as a child, talks about how her mind works -- sharing her ability to "think in pictures," which helps her solve problems that neurotypical brains might miss. She makes the case that the world needs people on the autism spectrum: visual thinkers, pattern thinkers, verbal thinkers, and all kinds of smart geeky kids.
Rise N Shine - Rolland
- Monday, Sept 17 - New Teacher Meeting 3:30 p.m.
- Tuesday, Sept 18 - PLC Meeting in Instructional Coaches Room. Please complete this form prior to coming to the meeting. Committee Meetings. Coat a Kid Forms are due to Ms. Niblett.
- Wednesday, Sept 19
- Thursday, Sept. 20 - Assistant Principal Meeting at Coolidge. They will be using the Instructional Coaches room for their meeting.
- Friday - Sept 21 - Character First Starts. ReadOKC Assembly?
- Sat - Sept 22 Volleyball @12, Webster Middle School, Football 12:00 Capital Hill High School
Informal Observations Continue. Please remember that everyone must complete a Growth Plan in IObservation, even if they are not being officially observed this school year.
Tuesday, Sept 18 Committee Meetings:
Safe Schools/Healthy Lifestyles - A121
PBIS - O'Shield's Room
FAC - Art Room
Parents Nights/Reading Night - Instructional Coaches Room
Please be sure you complete Agenda/Sign in Sheet on the Google Drive., https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Rbn7nb_WkmLEu_7zCQs--CJ6HDfyWit7?usp=sharing
PREK - District wide meeting.
Temple Grandin, diagnosed with autism as a child, talks about how her mind works -- sharing her ability to "think in pictures," which helps her solve problems that neurotypical brains might miss. She makes the case that the world needs people on the autism spectrum: visual thinkers, pattern thinkers, verbal thinkers, and all kinds of smart geeky kids.
Comprehensive Snapshots Grades 3 - 6 in Mastery Connect.
ELA, Math, and 5th Science
Benchmark Literacy Unit 1 Assessment
6th Grade NWEA Reading and Math
Performance Tasks due Sept. 26th
Math Grades 1 -6, Science Grades 4 - 5
This week in Benchmark Literacy - you should be on Week 3 which is Reader's Theater. By Friday students should have taken Unit 1 Assessment. The assessment has been pushed to your trackers in Mastery Connect.
MATH
Focus Lesson
(15-20 minutes) Whole Group
3 Rotations of Small Groups (17-20 minutes/each) Math by Myself: Is one of three tasks children choose from during the independent work time of Math Daily 3. It provides time for kinestetic practice of math concepts that are primarily activity based. At the beginning of a new math unit, the activities are mostly review and practice from prior units of study. Then, as the new unit goes on, more of the Math Daily 3 activities become practice and reinforcement related to the current unit of study. Math by Myself can involve activity boards, various math tools/ manipulatives, or even the use of computers or tablets. Some Math by Myself activities are also fit for Math with Someone.
Math with a Partner: This task allows students to have experience with talking and writing about mathematics as they describe and explain their thinking to peers. Collaboration about mathematic concepts help students identify, simplify, organize, express, and extend their thinking. Math with Someone can involve activity boards, various math tools/ manipulatives, or even the use of computers or tablets. Some Math with Someone activities are also fit for Math by Myself.
Math Writing: Is time students express and articulate their thinking and understanding by working an a particular math problem or math concept through pictures, numbers, and words, and occasionally by creating problems of their own as well.
The Many Meanings of Opportunity
Trish Prentice
Issue #531
Whenever I begin to write, I open the online thesaurus on my computer. I’m curious to see the various subtle nuances in meaning for a particular word I might use. It is fascinating to see how two words can be so close in meaning yet maintain a slightly different interpretation. While updating my class website, I looked up the word opportunity. When the long list of related words appeared, my mind began to sort and classify. Immediately, I could see similar yet distinctive threads emerge.
Opportunity = Event, Happening, Fling, Occasion
We are a class, a community, and throughout the year we will have many exciting opportunities for wonderful experiences.
Opportunity = Moment, Time, Hour, Opening, Space
We have only a set number of months, days, hours, minutes, and seconds together. We must not waste a bit of this opportunity.
Opportunity = Stab, Turn, Fair Shake
Everyone has an opportunity to do his or her best.
Opportunity = Hope, Freedom, Connection
Anything is possible when we seize the opportunity to work together.
Opportunity = Good Fortune, Good Luck
If we take full advantage of our opportunities, good things will happen.
It’s incredible to see so many facets in 11 letters. It makes Simon Sinek’s words about opportunity even more powerful: “If you have the opportunity to do amazing things in your life, I strongly encourage you to invite someone to join you.” So, let’s do it: let’s do amazing things and invite our students along. We’ll read, talk, write, hope, share, dream, learn, create, laugh, care, do our best, and build friendships together. What an excellent opportunity for us all.
In the Comment Sections:What were 3 things you discovered about your students or yourself during Parent Teacher Conferences?
Where do I find?.........
Kindergarten | 1st Grade | 2nd Grade | 3rd Grade | 4th Grade | 5th Grade | 6th Grade |
| Bundled Standards Year at a Glance First 20 Days | Bundled Standards Year at a Glance First 20 Days | Bundled Standards Year at a Glance First 20 Days | Bundled Standards Year at a Glance First 20 Days | Bundled Standards Year at a Glance First 20 Days | Bundled Standards Year at a Glance First 20 Days | Bundled Standards Year at a Glance First 20 Days |
OKCPS ELA Standards by Grade Level
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OKCPS and OAS Crosswalk
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OKCPS ELA Bundles
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6th Grade Bundles
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OKCPS Math by Grade Level
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OKCPS-OAS Crosswalks
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OKCPS Standards by Bundles
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Pre-Kindergarten Bundles
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Kindergarten Bundles
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Elementary ELA Year- at- a- Glance
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OAS for Social Studies Bundles
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OKCPS Social Studies Unit Plans
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1st Grade American Heroes
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OAS Science Standards by Bundle
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OKCPS Science Unit Plans
(Please note: You will need your OKCPS log-in to access)
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When the due date is for one to become a big sister, a parent shared a video of their child practicing writing name at home and parents Said their kids love coming to school.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful thing to know that the child loves coming to school!
DeleteI discovered
ReplyDeleteMany of my parents know me from the office
My students care deeply about their parents response to feedback
I need to practice my Spanish
Students caring deeply about their parents response shows how committed they are. We have wonderful families.
DeleteMany parents were taking pictures of my Anchor Charts on the white board. Students could give responses to what and how questions regarding Main Idea and how to answer these type of questions.
ReplyDeleteGreat! They can use this information when asking questions to their students at home.
DeleteI discovered: that one of my students has come a long way behavior-wise at school and at home, some students have challenges that clearly begin at home, and that I am very patient with parents that don't want to be bothered and are not interested in fulfilling their parental responsibilities.
ReplyDeleteYour classroom may need more patience than any in the building. It is nice to discover how far their behavior has come.
DeleteOf the few parents that stopped by, I was reminded that more parents care about their child's success than i realize.
ReplyDeleteWe have terrific parent support at Coolidge.
DeleteI was happy to hear that many of my students come home every day singing the songs we sing, and practicing what we have learned that day. I implemented a closing meeting this semester, and I think it has helped them connect school with home. I learned that one of my quietest kids is apparently wild at home! I am happy that my conversational Spanish is improving, there were few or no "awkward silence" moments waiting for an interpreter.
ReplyDeleteI'm jealous about your Spanish and need to do a better job on mine! How wonderful that you have started a closing meeting to bridge the gap between home and school.
DeleteSometimes we can hear you singing in our room.... my kids are very interested in your songs.
DeleteMany parents came to the Book Fair after coming to parent conferences. I didn't "discover" anything, but I did observe:
ReplyDeletea) parents want their children to read more, so they asked for help finding books in the book fair that would be good for the student's grade level and/or reading level
b) quite a few parents bought books that they could read WITH their children, and told me that the teacher suggested they read together at night
c) Parents (and students) were positive and happy to be at the school, even at 7 pm.
We both know that Parents reading with children develops that love of reading. Great they were at the Book Fair together.
DeleteOf the parents I translated for, it was poignant to see how hurt parents were upon learning that their child consistently misbehaved and misinformed them concerning their homework assignments. I really felt for those parents.
ReplyDeleteHopefully this learning situation will create an opportunity for the parent to become more involved and follow up on the child's homework.
DeleteMy students are making progress at home and parents are seeing it, our classroom is very accommodating to individual needs, and parents are excited with all of the hard work they are seeing from their children.
ReplyDeleteIt is nice when parents and children bloom together!
Delete1. Several parents whom did not know their kids were so far behind.
ReplyDelete2. Several parents whom really truly care about their kids' education.
3. I need to brush up on my Spanish.
The jump in expectations in 3rd grade is an eye opener for many parents. It is wonderful to see them involved with their child's education.
DeleteDiscovered a student's custody history, which explains some of the emotional needs I see in him. Heard some nice, appreciative comments from a couple of parents- happy that their children are happier this year than they were in the past. Got the chance to meet several parents who hadn't attended any other functions.
ReplyDeleteHopefully making those connections will have a positive impact in your classroom - for both the student and the teacher.
DeleteI found out that the parent are concerned
ReplyDeleteI found out that giving them encouraging news makes their day
I also found out with one parent they my efforts to help were appreciated.
Coolidge is lucky to have dedicated parents.
DeleteI learned that parent to parent connection is important and should be encouraged more.
ReplyDeleteI learned that being present in the moment is key to a successful day.
I learned that Mrs.Lazos is super funny! :)
It was so clear to me that parents are trying their best.
We all want what is best for children.... we just don't always agree on how to get there or what it looks like.
Delete1. I learned a lot about the families and my students siblings. It was nice to meet some of them for the first time!
ReplyDelete2. My favorite part of conferences is showing the parents their child's writing journals and seeing their reactions of what their child likes to write about.
3. I loved learning that the students enjoy coming to school!
Children loving to come to school doesn't come by accident. It happens when teachers and staff build relationships with students. Thank you for building relationships with our students.
DeleteEvery year is a new experience when I translate for a family. I was very sad when some parents ignore what is happening with their students behavior in school. With some parents I feel so happy when the teacher tell that the student is reading above their level. You can see that parent face of satisfaction. Not too many, but for some students their reading level are increasing.
ReplyDeleteI agree, it is very difficult for some parents to hear about their child's negative behavior or to make an effort to help the child correct it.
DeleteSeeing that most of my students' parents are really caring about their child's education and were wanting to know how they can help at home with their learning. Many were surprised knowing how low of a Reading level their child had and they wanted to know what additional assistance they could provide at home.
ReplyDeleteI hope you encouraged them to read with their child at home. Reading is the best way to improve reading.
DeleteI witnessed that students were only telling their parents what they wanted them to know, not telling them if they were struggling. In those cases the parents were shocked. Students usually know what they need to do even if they aren't actually doing it, so telling the parents what needed to be done will help. A lot of my parents were supportive of what I was doing and were appreciative which was nice. I think that keeping the parents informed and aware of what their child needs to do will help.
ReplyDeleteDo you have suggestions on the best way to help keep parents informed?
Delete1. I was pleasantly surprised at the # of parents that attended.
ReplyDelete2. I was able to really connect with several parents and felt like I had a partner in their child's education.
3. Language was less of a barrier than anticipated (Thank you translators)
Coolidge has great parents. Working with our staff to help keep those lines of communication open is very important.
Delete1. One of my parents has seen growth in their child at home.
ReplyDelete2. A newer student who has been through a lot of transitions lately, loves coming to school.
3. I learned about one of my students family situations and now have a been understanding why they have been showing more emotions lately.
Home and school connections are very important.
DeleteI discovered that my parents care about their child's education. I also discovered that my students are brutally honest about their behavior and work ethic. I learned more about a student who has had some emotional problems in the classroom.
ReplyDeleteIf you need to help the parent find assistance for the child please don't hesitate to contact Ms. Niblett for outside sources.
DeleteI was reminded-again-we have interested and caring parents. I learned how much a particular student cares about his mom's approval. I learned how much Coolidge teachers care about their students. :)
ReplyDeleteCoolidge is a great place to be a teacher and a student!
Delete1. I discovered how many parents work very hard with their children at home. 2. When parents tell you how much fun their children are learning math in your classroom 3. I learned that my humor with my students builds a fun and enjoyable math lesson they will always remember.
ReplyDeleteRelationships are an important key in teaching.
DeleteParents were very interested in seeing their students progress on the Summit platform. Students were excited to show their parents their progress on the Summit Platform. It was nice having parents ask what they could do at home to help their child progress with their reading or move forward on the Summit Platform.
ReplyDeleteSummit is a new way of teaching and learning that will benefit our 21st century learners. But it does have a large learning curve.
DeleteI discovered
ReplyDelete1. Parents want more work for their kiddos to do at home.
2. Parents have seen tremendous growth in their kiddos already this year.
3.Parents want to know what they can do at home to help with development.
I am amazed at how supportive the parents in my class are. They were very encouraging and had many good things to say.
-Rachel
Encourage your parents to read with their children. Developing a love a reading will make school so much easier for the child.
DeleteI didn't have to talk to any parents about their students PE grade, parents do care about what is happening at school.
ReplyDeleteYEAH! That is the advantage of having multiple children in your class - parents learn the expectations just like the children.
DeleteI was surprised by the disinterest a few parents displayed in their child's education, shocked by the information and support offered by one parent, and enjoyed learning that families that are new to Coolidge feel very welcomed and embraced by teachers and staff!
ReplyDeleteIt is always sad when the parent doesn't display interest in their child's education. It is also good news that those parents are few and far between.
DeleteSome parents are truly supportive. Some parents are not. Some want to be, but cannot.
ReplyDelete