Instructional Minute

In this issue of the Instructional Minute, we will explore the why (impact) behind component 1C (setting instructional outcomes).

The more transparent the teacher makes the learning goals, the more likely the student is to engage in the work needed to meet the goal. Also, the more the student is aware of the criteria of success, the more the students can see and appreciate the specific actions that are needed to attain these criteria. Learning intentions are what we intend students to learn. They may also learn other things not planned for (which can be positive or negative), and teachers need to be aware of unintended consequences.

• Predictability and Structure
• Independence
• Learning Concepts
• Motivation
• Comprehension
• Versatility

Dive into a quick video and discover how much you can learn in just a few moments!

The Instructional Team (Yvonne Thomas, Heather Guerra, Lisa Dean, Ariel Rodriguez Pena, Kim Johnson Ray, Mitch Foster, Sarah Odneal, Anna Di Ponio, Paden Stalter and Jessica Benavides) have begun visiting classrooms.

Morrie's Okemos Ford is offering FREE windshield wipers for any staff or district owned vehicles throughout the school year. It is as simple as filling out some basic information (on this Google form) about you and your vehicle that Morrie's would be getting the wipers for.

We are thrilled to announce staff openings for our districtwide Saturday School program - "Super Saturday"! We are looking for enthusiastic and dedicated educators to join us in supporting our 3rd - 5th grade students who are not yet at grade level to provide instruction over 9 exciting weeks, starting October 17th from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Students will be there from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

The locations for Super Saturday will be at Dwight Rich, Gardner, and Pattengill.

We are hiring for:

- 3 ELA Teachers

- 3 Math Teachers

- 3 PE Teachers

- 3 Leads

If you’re passionate about making a difference and have energy to help our students succeed, we’d love to have you on board! Please apply on the Lansing School District's website by clicking on the employment tab and looking for Saturday School Teacher or Lead.

Attached is the PowerPoint regarding the Evaluation Model and Percentage Breakdown for:

• Classroom Teachers
• Non-Classroom Instructional Support Personnel
• Student Service Professionals (SSP)
• School Leaders
• District Leaders

Dear Educators,

Due to the overwhelming response from applicants, we are extending the application deadline to Friday, September 20, 2024 at 5:00 PM.

We are excited to announce the availability of the Classroom Cash Grant, offering $750.00 per classroom to educators living in Michigan. This grant is designed to support projects that enhance learning and are not covered by the school's budget.

Please complete the Microsoft link to apply – applications must be completed by the new extended date of Friday, Sept 20, 2024 at 5 pm.

Eligibility & Requirements:

• Eligibility: Educators residing in Michigan.
• Application: Must be the designated teacher/educator for the classroom utilizing the grant.
• Submission: via Microsoft Forms link

Link:.

https://forms.office.com/r/rrjkQhGgYr

Grant Details: The grant funds can be used for materials, equipment, and other resources necessary for classroom projects. However, please note:

• Ineligible Uses: Restocking library books, food, capital equipment, outside presenters (unless integral to the activity), staff development/training, and field trips.

To Apply: Please answer the following questions and provide a detailed proposal for your project. You may also attach a picture if desired.

1. Detailed Project Description (1000 characters max):
2. New Learning Opportunity: What new learning opportunity will this project introduce to your classroom?
3. Innovation: How does your project apply innovation or what is innovative about it?
4. Expected Outcomes: What outcomes do you expect to see as a result of the project?
5. Impact on Classroom: What will you be able to do differently in the classroom if awarded this grant?
6. Curriculum Relation: How does this project relate directly to your classroom curriculum or lesson plans?
7. Purchases with Grant Funds: What will you purchase with the grant funds? (Please include an itemized list of resources/services you plan to buy. Providing this list is optional but highly recommended.)

We look forward to receiving your innovative and impactful project proposals!

Deadline to submit proposals: Friday, September 20, 2024 5:00 pm EST

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Nikki Mczee.

Please see the attached document for information on district adopted curricular tools by grade level. If you are having problems accessing any of these materials, please reach out to your building administrator.

Having a hard time navigating the District's website to find the pacing guides? Check out our helpful "How To" below! Hyperlinks are imbedded in the PDF for easier navigating.

Clever is our digital classroom and single-sign on (SSO portal). It automatically adds student rosters to our digital curriculum programs. It allows everyone to sign on to programs with just a click. No more remembering dozens of usernames and passwords, or sharing out class codes to get students onto LSD educational programs. You can also customize your digital classroom to engage with students and families.

If you are having trouble accessing your online curriculum it might be one of these two things:

1. It may be that that subject area section has not been assigned to you in Synergy. Reach out to your building administrator/school secretary for assistance with assigning those sections to you in Synergy.
2. Your Google account may be defaulting to a personal Google email account. Please also check that when you are logging in that you are on your district assigned Google account and not your personal account. We are finding that sometimes when attempting to log in, it defaults to personal Google accounts.

• Make sure you inform your administrator.
• A Google Form has been shared with each principal for them to enter any needs for their staff.
• The Google Form is reviewed daily so we can get you the materials you need as soon as possible!

Below you can find the new, updated required instructional minutes by grade level and content area. Each grade level also includes a sample schedule.

Teachers are encouraged to monitor student progress regularly using formative assessments and adjust pacing as needed based on classroom data. However, teachers should aim to stay within two weeks of the pacing outlined in the guides to maintain alignment with district-wide goals.

The documents attached outline K-8 curricular resources, standards and pacing. This can also be found by clicking here on the LSD website.

The document attached outlines 9-12 curricular resources, standards and pacing. This can also be found by clicking here on the LSD website.

The MDE is accepting nominations for the 25-26 Michigan Teacher of the Year until September 25, 2024. Nominating a teacher is quick and easy, and can be submitted by students, parents, coworkers and school community members through the online nomination form.

Spread the word!

A resource to use as you see fit.