Thursday, April 6, 2023

April 6 Update

Happy "Friday"! 

A couple things - 
Steph is out today, so there is not as much office support and coverage as normal.   Please be aware of this with any requests or needs you have.    Second, don't forget to come enjoy a hot dog lunch to celebrate the MN Twins Home Opener (which actually got moved to tomorrow!).  

Carry the Banner:
Are you carrying that McKinley Banner?   Lots of GREAT things happening this week - continue to share it with the world!  






MCA-Reading Starts Next Week:
Just a reminder - our 3rd-5th graders will be MCA testing starting next week.  Please avoid the library during the below dates/times.  Also, please remember we need the building quiet so our learners can focus.  

April 11-12-13


10:30-11:30 3rd Grade

9:40-10:40 4th Grade

8:40-9:40 5th Grade 


Jimmy Casas - The Interview Chair:
I recently came across this podcast from Jimmy Casas (author of Culturize - we also had him in Owatonna a few years ago).  I've started the podcast and it's helping me reframe my mindset.   Through the episodes, Jimmy helps remind educators of their "why" - and what you and your mindset were like when you sat in that interview chair for your position.   Are you still as eager, positive, and ready to tackle on the world?   

One episode I recently heard is "Not Everything is a Level Ten".    As we get overwhelmed and stressed, we can go from zero to 10 pretty quickly.   This podcast helps ground (and remind) us that not everything is a level 10.... https://interviewchair.podbean.com/e/not-everything-is-a-level-ten/


Moving From Engagement to Deeper Thinking:
A great article on designing lessons that truly engage learners.  Take the 2 minutes to read - https://www.ascd.org/el/articles/moving-from-engagement-to-deeper-thinking

Sensory Room Info - Guest Blogger Lindsay Anderson:

The Occupational Therapy department has been making some changes on how we do trainings for sensory materials/equipment this year. By next year our trainings should be electronic and will not require staff to be providing this in person. Yay!


That being said, our trainings this year have been on an as needed basis only. I want to provide a quick reminder list for the use of this equipment as I have not been able to provide a full staff training.


  • Only students on an IEP with Occupational Therapy services should be using the sensory rooms' large therapy equipment. (i.e. therapy swings, compression roller etc.) There are many ways to get students movement opportunities without this specialized equipment. I am happy to help brainstorm if needed!


  • Sensory equipment is a therapy tool used to address specific sensory needs and requires training and direction from the occupational therapist.


  • Sensory equipment should not be used as a reward or play activity for students. This equipment can have significant negative neurological responses if used inappropriately and needs to be reserved for those students who need it.


I am always happy to help with ideas for any student, never hesitate to ask! Thanks for being such great support for our students. 

- Lindsay Anderson, MOTR/L


Building Weekly Newsletter:


Have a relaxing, long weekend.  And, Happy Easter to those who are celebrating!
-Justin

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