ROO WAAG - Edition #22 !

Dear Roo FAM,

As we step into March, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for the dedication, positivity, and resilience you bring to our school every day. This time of year can be busy and demanding, but it’s also full of opportunities to celebrate growth, support our students, and finish the year strong together.

Let’s continue leaning on one another, staying focused, and keeping our momentum going. Your work makes a difference more than you know.

Wishing everyone a productive, uplifting, and inspiring month ahead! Thank you for all you do.

Have a great Rootastic week ahead.

Go Roo’s

March's CKH Trait focuses on COURAGE — choosing to do what is right even when it is uncomfortable! For ROO Faculty and Staff, this CKH trait of courage means having brave conversations about student growth, holding consistent expectations with care, addressing behavior with dignity, and modeling vulnerability when mistakes happen. When adults demonstrate courage in their words, decisions, and accountability, students learn that strength is not about being loud — it is about leading with integrity and heart. 💚

Taking time off is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity, especially for teachers. The demands of the job can be overwhelming, and burnout is all too common in the profession. Spring break offers an invaluable opportunity to step back and breathe.

When teachers recharge over spring break, they return with renewed energy, creativity, and passion. This revitalization benefits not only themselves but also their students. A teacher who takes care of their own well-being creates a positive classroom environment where learning thrives.

Prioritizing self-care during breaks helps create balance in life. It allows educators to reconnect with their interests outside teaching and foster personal growth. Whether engaging in relaxing or productive activities—or both—these moments away from the classroom are vital for maintaining long-term effectiveness as an educator.

Teachers deserve this time to refresh their minds and spirits so they can continue shaping young lives positively. Embracing spring break as a chance to recharge ensures that when they return, they do so ready to inspire again.

---from MakeMusic Official, March 10, 2025

Hey ROOS! Check out the below acitivities that can be a 5-minute opener, mid-lesson reflection, or exit ticket in ANY content area! 🤟

🟢 1. GLOW – Where did I show courage?

👉 Teacher Move:

· Call on 1–2 volunteers to normalize brave behavior. Celebrate effort, not perfection.

👉 Teacher Will Ask the Student About A Time When…

• What is one academic risk you took today?
• Did you ask a question even though you was unsure?
• Did you participate when you normally stay quiet?
• Did you stay focused when you wanted to give up?

🟡 2. GROW – Where do I need more courage?

👉 Teacher Move:

· Model vulnerability once a week.
Example: “Today I needed courage to reteach that concept differently when I saw confusion.”

👉 Students Will Respond About A Time When…

• What did you avoid today?
• Where did fear, distraction, or frustration show up?
• What is one area you need to push yourself in tomorrow?

🔵 3. GO – What courageous action will I take next?

👉 Teacher Move:

· Have students write on a sticky note or in a digital form. Collect periodically to track patterns.

👉 Students set one micro-goal:

• I will attempt to solve every problem.
• I will speak at least once during discussion.
• I will turn in my assignment even if it is not perfect.
• I will ask for help instead of shutting down.

Materials

• Show-Glow-Grow handout
• Show-Glow-Grow template (English/Spanish)
• Notebook paper (if handout is projected)

Instructions

1. Assign a targeted concept.
2. Project or distribute the Show-Glow-Grow handout.
3. Students create a Show-Glow-Grow exit ticket, using these prompts:
   • Show you know “what’s happening” by writing what you learned in 2-3 sentences.
   • Show you can create a graphic, diagram, or sketch to capture the idea visually.
   • Show you can connect the concept to the bigger idea by creating a hashtag.
4. Students stand and quickly trade papers with 5 other students without reading anyone else’s papers.
5. Students read the final paper they receive and write 1 Glow (compliment) and 1 Grow (new idea) on their peer’s exit ticket.
6. Collect all Show-Glow-Grow exit tickets, evaluate students’ understanding, and clarify/verify as appropriate.

Classroom Management

• Conduct a think-aloud to model the Show-Glow-Grow exit ticket.
• Role-play the glow and grow movement part of the activity.

Differentiation

• Promote access to content by allowing students to use notes, journals, and visuals to aid memory.
• Promote response support by allowing students to dictate answers to a scribe, provide more detailed stems to frame responses, and/or allow speech-to-text technology assistance.

Think It Up!

• Have students think more deeply about the concept by responding to a Think It Up prompt as an exit ticket or journal entry:
  • Draw a conclusion about how this concept might be tested.
  • Make a connection to the concept represented in the Show-Glow-Grow exit ticket to another concept. How are they related?
• Encourage students to use lead4ward’s Thinking Stems (English/Spanish) to frame their responses, if needed.

1. Consider indulging in a good book. Whether it’s fiction or professional development, reading can transport you to another world.
2. A nature walk can also be refreshing. Disconnect from screens and embrace the sights and sounds around you.
3. Meditation offers a peaceful way to recharge your mind. Just ten minutes of deep breathing can work wonders.
4. Try yoga, too; it blends physical activity with relaxation beautifully.
5. Cooking or baking new recipes provides a creative outlet while nourishing your body at the same time.
6. Why not pamper yourself with a spa day at home? A long bath or some DIY face masks might just do the trick.
7. Gardening is another calming option that connects you with nature while allowing for quiet reflection.
8. Engage in art, whether it’s painting, drawing, or crafting. Creative expression helps release stress effectively.
9. Last but not least, binge-watch that series you’ve been meaning to catch up on—guilt-free!

---from MakeMusic Official, March 10, 2025

“March Madness reminds us that underdogs rise, champions are built through preparation, and every moment counts — in the classroom just like on the court.”😊

English / RLA 📚

Question: Why do English teachers love March?
🦘Because they finally see students “spring” into complete sentences.

Math 🍀
Question: Why was the math teacher so calm in March?
Because they had plenty of pi and knew how to stay rational.

History 🏛
Question: Why is March a historian’s favorite month?
🦘 Because it reminds them of the “Ides” and proves deadlines have been stressful for centuries.

Science 🔬
Question: Why did the science teacher bring a ladder to class in March?
🦘 Because the students were ready to take their learning to the next level of matter.

All Teachers 🍎
Question: Why do teachers love March?
🦘 Because it’s the only time of year when we can say, “We survived winter… now let’s SPRING into test prep!”

1. Consider attending an online class or webinar related to your subject area. This is a great way to enhance your skills while connecting with other educators. You could try listening to a podcast too!
2. You could also focus on professional development by reading music ed books or articles. There’s always something new to learn that can inspire fresh ideas for the classroom. You might enjoy The Mindful Music Classroom, A Music Teacher’s Gratitude Journal or articles like this one to get inspired.
3. Exploring new teaching tools and technologies might spark creativity, too. Experimenting with apps or platforms can enrich student engagement when you return. Test out the resources that MakeMusic Cloud has to offer you and your students with a free (no credit card required) 30-day trial. During a school break and away from your typical day-to-day is the perfect time to check it out!
4. Reading blog posts about teaching experiences allows reflection and growth. Sharing insights helps build community among fellow educators while solidifying your own understanding of various concepts. Explore the MakeMusic Blog—with tons of resources from teachers like you, you may even get inspired to submit your own article for consideration!
5. Plan Future Lessons & Units: Use this time to get ahead. Organize your upcoming lesson plans, develop new unit ideas, create resources, or craft a custom Playlist in MakeMusic Cloud with titles that you want to consider for future concerts and events.. Having a solid plan will ease the transition back into the classroom.
   
6. Organize Your Classroom Resources (Digitally or Physically): Declutter and streamline your teaching materials. Whether it’s organizing digital files, sorting physical resources, or creating a better storage system, a tidy workspace leads to a more efficient teaching environment.
   
7. Reflect on Student Progress and Assessment Strategies: Analyze student performance data and consider adjustments to your assessment methods. Identify areas where students excelled and areas where they might need additional support.
   
8. Network with Other Educators (Even Virtually): Connect with colleagues, either locally or online. Share ideas, collaborate on projects, or simply have a conversation about teaching strategies. Join online forums or social media groups for educators.
   
9. Develop or Revise Your Curriculum: If you have the freedom, use this time to review and update your curriculum. Incorporate new learning standards, adjust pacing, or add relevant and engaging content. Explore The Foundations Series by Brian Balmages for a trove of rich supplemental exercises that reinforce fundamental skills and offer exciting movie soundtrack accompaniments that students love!
10. Focus on Personal Well-being and Self-Care: While productivity is important, don’t neglect your own needs. Engage in activities that rejuvenate you, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. A refreshed teacher is a more effective teacher. Educator Adrian Gordon offers wise words on this topic that every music educator needs to hear.

---from MakeMusic Official, March 10, 2025

Dr. Katie Novak provides evidence for those seeking to understand the benefits of inclusive learning environments and for educators that are looking for strategies to implement into their classrooms to create a space where all students have the opportunity to succeed.

• Active monitor your students throughout the lesson.
• Post the focused skill for the week in a visible location.
• Provide support and guidance when students are struggling with skills.

Continue encouraging students as we work toward mastering two skills each week. Let’s keep pushing forward with 15 correct questions per week — we believe in OUR Students, and we are KHS STRONG!

Teachers, please remember to enter grades within five school days of assigning any class assignment, test, or graded task, as timely feedback is essential for student progress, accountability, and clear communication with students and families.

Spring break offers a perfect opportunity for teachers to focus on self-care. Start your day with a mindful morning routine. Enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee while soaking in the quiet before the day’s activities.

Set aside time for physical activity that you love, whether it’s yoga, hiking, or dancing in your living room. Movement boosts mood and energy levels immensely. Consider indulging in hobbies that ignite passion. Read that book you’ve been wanting to explore or try out new recipes in the kitchen.

Limit screen time and social media exposure during this period. Instead, connect with nature through walks or simply relaxing outdoors.

Don’t forget about relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises. These practices can help clear your mind and reduce stress effectively.

Prioritize sleep by creating a cozy bedtime routine—rest is vital for rejuvenation after months of hard work.

---from MakeMusic Official, March 10, 2025

Calling all KHS Staff Roos! If someone asks, please provide the link or the key details from it.

https://app.smore.com/n/jermg

Prom tickets will be sold in advance only and prices will increase as the event gets closer:

• March 30 – April 10: $35

• April 13 – April 17: $40

• April 20 – April 24: $45

Students are encouraged to purchase their tickets early to get the best price, and remember that no tickets will be sold at the door.