New Educator Training (NET)
During the week of August 15th, new teachers participated in an amazing week of orientation and welcoming activities. District personnel facilitated the first two days, while instructional coaches Patricia Jones (WPS) and Malinda Huddleston (WIS) combined their expertise and knowledge to collaboratively facilitate 2.5 days of learning that focused on instructional materials, TPEP, lesson planning, classroom management plans, and opportunities for individualized coaching support. We received nothing but positive feedback regarding this incredible week of learning.
Dare, Dream, Do!
On August 25th, all of Woodland Intermediate staff and faculty came together for a day of relationship, community building, and vision planning. Beginning the work of crafting a plan to make the district vision a reality at every level of our building system, we made space to DREAM, to give our community, our school, our students, and ourselves to the many possibilities available. We created the opportunity to discuss our to DO, ways we might execute our dreams. Lastly, we discussed and acknowledged that this would only become possible if every staff member is part of a highly cohesive and dedicated team and that a foundation of trust is imperative. We started the year together with great hope and optimism for what we can accomplish together for all of our students.
Systems of Intervention and Support
Certificated PreK-4 staff participated in a very powerful training August 26th. Facilitated by WPS Social Worker, Spring Dowse and WIS Counselor, Lindsay Hill, educators learned how to respond effectively to students experiencing distress or struggling with behavior issues. This training was the culmination of an extensive PreK-4 plan developed over the summer by building administrators, instructional coaches, and student support staff. This comprehensive approach to student support is based on national best practices and proven interventions. We are seeing very positive results in these first days of the school year.
Beginning the New Year
WIS had a relatively uncomplicated and highly energetic start to the year. Every adult who works at WIS found a place in the halls to welcome students to the 2016/2017 school year, signifying a new norm at WIS. Every adult every day will be in the halls ten minutes before the final bell rings to welcome students with smiles and welcoming words. Our smile is arguably the most important and impactful nonverbal expression we can use with our students. Smiles signify safety, approachability, and positive emotion. Students spent the 1st few days building community, making friends, and learning and practicing the Woodland Way. It was an amazing start to the 2016/2017 school year.
Upcoming Events…
Book Fair: October 3-7
Open House: October 6th
6:00-7:30 pm