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This issue of Friday News includes:
- What is our brand?
- Iowa Core Curriculum resources online
- Vote for Aplington-Parkersburg
What is the Prairie Lakes AEA brand?
The new 3-D Team targeted the topic of communications at its meeting this week. Team members opened the meeting by answering two questions. Questions and answers from team members are below. The team asks that you add your thoughts by commenting on this blog.
As a Prairie Lakes AEA staff member, what do you “feel” when you see the Prairie Lakes AEA logo?
• Second family
• Balance of quality & compliance
• Proud
• Learning
• Too much stuff
• DE vs. school
• Quality
• Warmth & friendliness
• Professional
• Change
• Ownership
• Challenge the status quo
• Loyalty
• Few people know who we are in the community
• Apologetic
• Collaborative
• Knowledge – we all have important pieces
• Responsibility
• Basket of voices
What do students, teachers, parents “feel” when they see the Prairie Lakes AEA logo?
• Leadership
• Advocates
• Teachers want our jobs
• Unknown
• Compassion
• Problem-solvers
• Experts
• Dangerous competition
• Partners
• KIDS Program directly impacts kids & families
• Professional development
• Roadblock
• Resource
• Van service
• Messengers
• Safe haven
• Compliance
• Provide media
• Cause stress
• Misconception
• Hope
• Help
• Thankful
• Paper police
• Service providers
Iowa Core Curriculum resources
Handouts and materials from the recent Iowa Core Curriculum session can be found on the Prairie Lakes AEA website. A category has been created on the front page and is listed on the left side of the page.
Vote for Aplington-Parkersburg
Aplington-Parkersburg schools has the opportunity to receive a $25,000 as part of a “contest” offered by the Dial Corporation, a Henkel Company. The “Henkel Helps Schools” project is designed to lend a helping hand to children and improve local communities. You can help by voting for Aplington-Parkersburg on this website: http://www.henkelhelps.com/home2.asp. Click on the big picture at the right side of the row until the photo of a destroyed classroom is displayed. Then, click to open a window which discusses how the money would be used. You will need to enter your email address in order to vote. Deadline to vote is Oct. 19th! The winner will be announced at the end of October
This issue of Friday News includes:
- 3-D Team adds new dimension of shared leadership
- Jerry issues invitation for SPP, SPED sessions
- Performance appraisal process for licensed staff
- Free flu shots
- Reservations reminder
- Believe…from Dalton Sherman
3-D Team leads new dimension of shared leadership
What do you think of when hearing the term, “3-D?” Do you remember those cool glasses worn in movie theaters? Do you picture an object or shape that appears to leap off the paper or screen?
3-D is the name of the repurposed Communications and Outreach Team, which brought together representatives from all aspects of the agency. Over the years, COT stepped up to provide leadership, input and feedback on policies and procedures. It also gave staff a voice on a variety of issues. This team had in essence been the “keepers” of the culture of our agency. Some of the accomplishments include:
- Drew zone boundaries and determined office locations
- Established a mission statement, values and beliefs for Prairie Lakes AEA
- Crafted a new inclement weather policy for the agency
- Created the Attitudes, Behaviors & Commitments (ground rules) for PLAEA
- Provided input on the staff survey and analyzed results
- Reviewed, analyzed and identified areas of strength and opportunities for improvement, from the Customer Survey.
- Many other duties as assigned!
New challenges required a new dimension of shared leadership at Prairie Lakes AEA. Hence, the 3-D Team was born! 3-D stands for Data, Decisions and Development.
The work
The 3-D Team is designed to be a “go-to” team with the purpose of tackling issues and planning for issues that have an agency-wide impact. All of the team’s work is centered on this foundation:
- Analyze data.
- Make recommendations and decisions based on the data.
- Monitor the efficiency, effectiveness and implementation of these plans and/or decisions.
The team met for the first time in August and the meeting focused on developing the agency professional development plan. The September discussion centered on the Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Plan. Communications planning will be the core of the October meeting.
Membership
Two representatives have been selected from each zone. 3-D Team members aren’t in a formal “leadership” position; yet they demonstrate leadership skills and contribute a strong voice in the development of Prairie Lakes AEA. Team members have a thumb-on the pulse of the agency, desire to make this agency the best it can be, are given time to devote to a leadership role, and are visionary thinkers.
In the zones that have two offices, a representative has been chosen from each office. Representatives from the licensed and classified associations, as well as the non-bargaining employee group, also serves as the representative for the office/zone. The Agency Coordinating Team (ACT) has two representatives. This “core team” includes 16 members listed below:
3-D Team Members
Karen Appleton, Instructional Media & Technology Consultant, Spencer office
Stacy Bezoni, AEA Rep/Special Education Consultant, Storm Lake office
Cheri Brown, AEA Rep/Special Education Consultant, Algona office
Donna Bryan, Administrative Assistant, Pocahontas office
Michelle Conrad, Audiologist, Spencer office
Mary Dunlay, AEA Rep/School Social Worker, Rockwell City office
Bill Heileman, Video Production Specialist, Supervisor for Print & Production, Pocahontas office
Roberta Hersom, Zone Coordinator, Estherville and Algona offices
Jane Jacobson, Communications Paraprofessional, Webster City office
Brigitte Johnson, AEA Rep/School Psychologist, Fort Dodge office
Lorri Lovelace-Johnson, Early Childhood Special Education Teacher/Consultant, Webster City office
Jason Kehoe, Network Administrator/Engineer, Fort Dodge office
Kandy Martin, Zone Coordinator, Webster City office
Sheila Remington, School Improvement Consultant – Math/Science, Storm Lake office
Sharon Richardson, AEA Rep/School Psychologist, Jefferson office
Dan Severson, Special Education Teacher, Forest Ridge Youth Shelter
Ad hoc members also join this “core team” when their skills, knowledge and expertise matches the topic being discussed at the meeting. The agency’s Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Plan was the topic at the September meeting. Local school representatives, along with additional PLAEA staff and a board member joined in the discussion and the work.
The 3-D Team is facilitated by:
Steve Beeghley, Human Resources Coordinator
Gary Dannenbring, Assessment/Comprehensive Improvement Coordinator
Connie Johnson, Communications Coordinator
Sandy Spangler, Associate Director of Professional Development
Genuinely Jerry: Sessions set for State Performance Plan & special education services
Over the course of the next several months, Penny Nelson and I will be visiting each of our offices to address pertinent issues around our State Performance Plan for Special Education (SPP) indicators and to discuss administrative responsibilities around the IEP process. As time permits, we will also address any additional questions you may have about special education services. These are not required meetings, but we would welcome and encourage your attendance as your schedule permit. In addition to AEA staff, we are also inviting local district administrators to each of these sessions. Specific dates, times and locations are as follows:
All sessions are scheduled from 2-4 p.m.
Rockwell City - Oct. 23
Spencer - Nov. 25
Pocahontas - Jan. 12, 2009
Storm Lake - Jan. 22, 2009
Jefferson - Jan. 26, 2009
Fort Dodge - Jan. 28, 2009
Algona - Feb. 2, 2009
Webster City - Feb. 17, 2009
Estherville - Feb. 26, 2009
Performance Appraisal Process System
Steve Beeghley, Human Resources Coordinator, outlines the Performance Appraisal process as stated in the the Master Contract for the Prairie Lakes Employees Association.
Orientation Phase
1. Licensed Staff New to the Teaching Profession
2. Licensed Staff New to Prairie Lakes AEA
If New to Profession: You are evaluated each of the first two years. This evaluation includes reflective conferences with the evaluator and involves observation and other documentation of the Iowa Teaching Standards. At the end of the second year, you may be recommended for a standard license, given a third year before a licensure decision is made, or not recommended for licensure in Iowa.
If New to PLAEA: Veteran staff new to our AEA are evaluated by the Orientation Phase for at least one year. This evaluation includes reflective conferences with the evaluator and involves observation and other documentation of the Iowa Teaching Standards. They may be on this phase a second year, but that is decided by the evaluator after the first year.
Three Year Comprehensive Evaluation/Individual PD Plan
All licensed staff are evaluated on a three year cycle after they no longer are on an orientation phase schedule. They currently are in their first year since evaluation, second year since evaluation or third year since evaluation.
If First Year Since Last Evaluation: Employee will be on an Individual PD Plan, year one. An annual conference is to be held with the evaluator with reflective conversation around goal progress and connections to the Iowa Teaching Standards and Criteria. Next year they are on the same plan, year two. They can choose to be on the same plan or could decide to create a new plan if their goal(s) have been met. Two years from now they will have a full Three Year Comprehensive Evaluation.
If Second Year Since Last Evaluation: Employee will be on an Individual PD Plan, year two. An annual conference is to be held with the evaluator with reflective conversation around goal progress and connections to the Iowa Teaching Standards and Criteria. Next year they will have a full Three Year Comprehensive Evaluation. Two years from now they are back on an Individual PD Plan, year one.
If Third Year Since Last Evaluation: Employee will have a full Three Year Comprehensive Evaluation this year. This includes completion of the third year of the Individual PD Plan and also involves observation and documentation of the Iowa Teaching Standards. Three reflective conferences will be held with the evaluator during the year. Documentation may be in a variety of forms and is NOT to be construed as the development of a portfolio. Next year they are on an Individual PD Plan, year one. Two years from now they are still on the Individual PD Plan, year two.
Intensive Assistance Phase: This is only used when some specific item(s) and/or Iowa Teaching Standard(s) need to be addressed. This can occur for any licensed employee, regardless under which phase they are currently being evaluated.
Free flu shots
Flu season is just around the corner and again, this year, ISEBA health-insured staff members, including all family members covered under the member’s health policy are eligible to receive a FREE flu shot starting October 2008. Children from the ages of 9 thru 17 will be allowed to receive a vaccination with a signed consent form from their parent/guardian.
Those who do not have insurance through ISEBA/Farm Bureau are welcome to participate at a cost of $20 per vaccine.
The itinerary of flu shots clinics is here. You are welcome to participate in a clinic in any of the attached locations. To sign up for a flu shot clinic in one of our PLAEA offices, visit http://survey.aea.k12.ia.us/survey/92789/7c18/ Vaccines are distributed on a first come, first served basis. Please bring the completed consent form and health insurance card with you.
Rockwell City details
Those interested in the Rockwell City clinics have a few options. An “Early Bird Clinic” is planned from 12-3 p.m. Oct. 14 at Calhoun County Public Health for anyone who wants their shot earlier than the regular schedule. Flu shots can also be obtained at that office from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Oct. 27 through December. Be sure to bring your insurance card with you.
Rooms & resource reservations
When booking the Spencer AEA office Polycom, please be sure to book the Spencer AEA Conference room. AND, it’s always a good idea to check first to see if the resource is available before booking it. This is critical when trying to avoid a resource being booked by two people at the same time!
Believe…
The video of Dalton Sherman that was shared at our all-agency inservice can be found at http://www.schooltube.com/video/10112/Do-You-Believe-Dalton-Sherman
Sherman was recently a guest on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and that clip can be found at http://ellen.warnerbros.com/2008/09/check_out_5th_grade_speechmake.php
This week’s issue of Friday News includes:
- Registration information for DI PD strand
- Administrative Directories distributed
- Section 504 workshop planned
- IPERS benefits counselors in FD
- October birthdays
- Congress passes important legislation
- President signs ADA Amendments bill
- Buddy Walk this weekend!
Differentiated Instruction participants
For those of you who have not registered on AVATAR yet or are experiencing any difficulty, we will have an open registration lab at the AEA Office, Silver Lake room, available from 8-8:45 a.m. and after 3 p.m. on both Monday, September 29th and Tuesday, September 30th. Janet Ryan will assist anyone needing assistance on those days. Remember, the expectation is that everyone attending the PD Strands needs to register.
Administrative Directories are distributed
The 2008-09 directories should arrive on your next van stop. Any updates in the information will be shared in the Friday News. The 2008-09 Pictorial Directory is next on the update horizon!
Section 504 workshop planned
Cynthia Knight and Corwyn Moore from the Department of Education will conduct a workshop Section 504 from 9-11:30 a.m. Oct. 9 in the Twin Lakes Conference Room in the Pocahontas office. The agenda will include a brief history of Section 504. The bulk of the meeting will be how this compliance requirement affects administrators, teachers, support staff and the student/parent. There will also be a Q & A session to wrap up the meeting
The session will also be offered via Polycom. If you plan to join via Polycom, please email Deb Gade. It is also being recorded and that information will be shared at a later date.
Please share this information with your districts! Questions? Contact Steve Beeghley.
IPERS coming to FD
IPERS counselors will be at AmericInn, 114 Kenyon Rd W., Fort Dodge. Call the IPERS office (800-622-3849) to schedule a half-hour individual appointment.
October birthdays
1 Joy Johnson
3 Julie Tolliver
4 Lynn Vaught
7 Jason Kehoe
8 Elaine Cook
11 Leslie Moore
12 Mike Schmidt
12 Susan Wedel
13 Diane Capesius
15 Connie Johnson
16 Linda Linn
18 Kathy Biere
19 Gloria Bartelt
19 Rosemary Anderson
20 Tammi Crotty
21 Brigitte Johnson
22 Kathy Pomrenke
23 Denise Lundell
23 Jeff Tuttle
23 Penny Nordstrom
27 Pat Kilbride
28 Bonita McLarnan
28 Becky Banks
29 Steve Beeghley
29 Peggy Murphy
30 Bob Domek
30 Brent Gerzema
Congress passes mental health parity legislation
After a decade worth of work, yesterday, Congress approved mental health parity legislation that would require private insurers to provide the same level of benefits for the treatment of mental illness as they do for physical illnesses.
HISTORY! President Bush signs ADA Amendments Act
On Thursday morning, Pres. Bush signed the ADA Amendments Act into law in the Oval Office in front of Members of Congress. The requirements of the new law will become effective January 1, 2009. Read all about it in this article.
Join the Buddy Walk
The Buddy Walk will be Sunday at Call State Park, Algona. Registration begins at 1:30 p.m., and the walk starts at 2:30 p.m. Additional activities includes an ice cream social, silent auction, kid games and more. For further information, contact one of the following: Tara Rochleau, 515-341-7004, Jill Conlon, 712- 837-4726, Scott Hallgren, 712-363-0933, or Donna Seehusen, 712-335-3279.
This issue of Friday News includes:
- Mileage rate
- Receipts reminder
- Directory details
- Finding the PLAEA APR
- Upcoming Events
- Contact information for our Iowa Braille providers
- Differentiated Instruction details
- Teacher Quality - options for licensed staff
- Urgent - Your TSA needs some attention!
- Important notice for Basecamp users
- How do I get..
- Iowa ASCD conference brochure
Quarterly mileage reimbursement rate
On Oct. 1, the quarterly mileage reimbursement rate will be 38 cents/mile. This change will be reflected in the Expenses portion of AEA Manager.
Receipt form
All receipts should be accompanied by the Receipt Form which can be found in AEA Manager>Documents>The Source>Forms & Templates. Of course, using the Search box for Receipt yields quick access to that form.
Administrative Directory update
This resource has been printed and is targeted for distribution the week of Sept. 29. Directories are distributed to our staff, schools, additional partners in education, such as community colleges & universities in our area. Questions? Contact Connie Johnson.
APR online
The Prairie Lakes AEA APR can found here.
Upcoming Events
Be sure to check the Upcoming Events calendar on our PLAEA website. To have an event added to the calendar, please send information to Deb Gade.
Iowa Braille staff contact information
Jean Lemberg and Mary Berkenpas have the same job title of Teacher of the Visually Impaired. They still provide services to children and families in Prairie Lakes AEA. Contact informaton has remained the same. What’s different? Prairie Lakes AEA contracts their services from the Iowa Braille and Sight-Saving School.
Jean in is the Fort Dodge office - 515-574-5500 ext. 2160
Mary is in the Spencer office - 712-262-4704 ext. 2011
Under the same arrangement, orientation and mobility services are provided by Julie Bratton, who is housed in the Webster City office -515-832-3791 ext. 208.
This information, and more details on our contracted service providers will be available soon!
Details about the Differentiating Instruction PD strand
Dates: September 29 & 30 and February 9 & 10
Time: 9:00-3:00 pm, it will start promptly at 9 am
Location: Methodist Church, 306 2nd Ave NW, Pocahontas
Lunch will be provided.
May want to bring table treats to share with your table mates and additional beverages to drink throughout the day.
Requirements
Since the PD Strand is about learning, implementing and having an impact, everyone will complete the requirements; in connection with the Iowa Teaching Standards #7, the Iowa Professional Development Model, the agency professional development plan, and our own core agency value…weare continuous, lifelong learners. The requirements for this strand are:
- Attendance on all dates. Please be sure to sign the attendance sheet daily.
- Set goals for growth in the Key Principles of Differentiation and how they relate specifically to your job responsibilities. Goals for Growth form can be found in AEA Manager in the Documents section under PD Strand Differentiated Instruction. Complete the first column by October 10th and the second column by May 5th.
- Complete a long and short term plan for supporting differentiating instruction with district staff. The Short and Long Term Plan can be found in AEA Manager (see above). Turn this into your Zone Coordinator by Feb. 27, 2009.
- Complete application assignments provided by Cindy Strickland by February 9.
Implementation of 2 different key principles of differentiation used to support classroom teachers for the year. The Implementation of DI Key Principle Log Implementation can be found in AEA Manager (see above). Complete Log 1 by March 31 and Log 2 by May 5. Upon completion, submit them to your Zone Coordinator. - Complete the Quarterly Reflection on Implementation which can be found in AEA Manager. Complete one half sheet by each of these dates: November 1, January 15, March 1 and May 5. Submit those each quarter to your Zone Coordinator.
- Select and identify one or two collaborative partners that you can meet with for an additional 10 hours during the year. This is your collaborative learning group to help extend and use the learning throughout the year. Plan the use of the strategies with this partner, use these staff as the folks you will observe, reflect over the observation with them, reflect over implementation, research something a little deeper, etc. Use the Collaborative Learning Log for Coaching Strategies for Teaching and Learning found in AEA Manager (see above) to document these 10 hours and submit to your Zone Coordinator on May 5.
Everyone attending the strand must register through AVATAR. See registration handout in AEA Manager. Registration dates have been extended.
If you do not have an account already set up in AVATAR, please contact Carrie Kee and she will assist you in setting up one. Even if you do not desire credit you must register in AVATAR. AVATAR is becoming our data collection system for PD. If you do not desire or have the need for credits, sign up for competency learning. It is free. There are no additional requirements for any of the credit options. You have already completed the requirements in numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 above. You will receive a certificate indicating your participation in this learning. Good to use as an artifact for the Iowa Teaching Standards. If you desire or need license renewal, select it for a fee of $40. Again, there are no additional requirements than numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7.
If you desire or need graduate credit, select either Morningside or Drake for their respective fees. Again, there are no additional requirements than numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7.
Continually check the PD Strand Differentiating Instruction folder in the Documents section of AEA Manager. Any necessary forms, information, etc can always be found there. If you have specific questions regarding the PD strand please contact Sandy Spangler.
Teacher Quality funds for licensed staff
Teacher Quality funds can be paid to licensed staff for an additional day of work outside the contract day connected to professional development. It is optional for licensed staff to participate. The Teacher Quality Committee decided to add one day per diem, as paid last year, connected to the agency professional development plan. Your choices for participation and requirements for payment are as follows:
Completion of an agency strand (Facilitation, Coaching or Differentiated Instruction) and the requirements outlined for that strand. Hours outside the contract day could be spent working on assignments or collaborating with your peers. Time and work outside the contract day will be documented on the Teacher Quality Log, which can be found in AEA Manager in the Documents Section under PD Strand Coaching.
OR
Completion of the AM RTI/PLC Zone meeting work and identified requirements. Hours outside the contract day could be spent meeting as a team to continue your learning, working on an assignment, or completing additional research. Time and work outside the contract day will be documented on the Teacher Quality Log, which can be found in AEA Manager in the Documents Section under PD Strand Coaching.
OR
Completion of your department specific professional development plan and the work required. Department Chairs will need to write up a syllabus if there is a singular focus to their department meeting plan. The required work will be included in this syllabus and it will be the responsibility of the Chair to let the TQ Committee know you have met the requirements. Hours outside the contract day could be spent completing data tabulation based on the learning, additional planning for implementation and use, further research on the topic, etc. Time and work outside the contract day will be documented on the Teacher Quality Log, which can be found in AEA Manager in the Documents Section under PD Strand Coaching.
If you have questions about the PD Strand please contact Sandy Spangler. If you have questions about Teacher Quality please contact any member of the committee.
Urgent information regarding TSAs - ACT NOW!
A new TSA program will begin on Jan. 1st, 2009. Staff members who wish to contribute to a TSA starting in January, need to take the first step of selecting one of the six providers listed in the 403b Program Summary and request the enrollment information.
The Business Office recommends that you take the 403b Program Summary to your financial provider and discuss options with them. Your provider may already be part of the network and if so, they can get the enrollment information started for you. If they are not part of the network for any of the six companies, you will need to call one of the providers directly and get the enrollment process started. They will send a packet for you to complete. The Business Office also suggests that this process is started immediately! At the end of October, the payroll department will be sending a letter asking which company you would like to make your contributions to and your monthly dollar amount for the January 2009 payroll.
The enrollment information and account must be set up before that process can begin!
The 403b Provider Summary includes the six companies and phone numbers so folks can ask questions and receive enrollment information.
On Tuesday, September 16, the Federal Reserve Board authorized the Federal Reserve Bank of New York to lend up to $85 billion to AIG. Click here for that announcement. This is an announcement from AIG regarding that addresses liquidity issues and policyholder concerns. Here are talking points prepared in response to recent press coverage on AIG’s liquidity.
TIAA-CREFF also has prepared a document that outlines programs at a glance.
If you don’t currently have a TSA, this is your opportunity to start one! If you have any questions please contact Brenda Hebert at 515-574-5500 ext. 2113
Basecamp requires browser change
On Oct. 1, Basecamp will no longer support file uploads from version 6 of the Microsoft Internet Explorer browser. All agency computers have IE 6 installed as the default browser. If you use Basecamp, you can avoid this issue by using the Firefox web browser to access the site. Firefox is installed on all agency computers and is located in the Programs menu. Please contact an agency technician if you have problems locating the Firefox browser. As a reminder, Firefox is also the recommended browser when using Avatar, the agency’s professional development system.
Books, binders, biz cards, badges & board members
For Speed of Trust books, a new binder and/or ID badge, contact Deb Gade.
Need new business cards? Each secretary has a form to expedite this process. Questions? Ask Deb.
Here are the current PLAEA board members and contact information. Additional details can be found on our website.
Formative Assessment focus of fall ASCD
Click here for the brochure. fall-institute-brochure-2008
This issue of Friday News includes:
- Details for Tuesday’s all-agency PD
- Coaching strand news
- Discounts on Microsoft products
- Meeting support reminder
- Big picture of PD
- Hamilton County reorganizes ARC chapter
Plans for Tuesday’s all-staff
A new seating arrangement will make its debut on Tuesday. Table numbers will be included on the table. Seating assignments are here. Those who would like to are welcome to bring table treats for their table-mates! The meeting begins PROMPTLY at 9 a.m. Read pp. 1-40 in the Speed of Trust. Bring a picture (any size, shape, color) of a child you really care about. It could be a son/daughter, grandchild, neighbor or perhaps one you work with in a school.
Attention: Coaching strand participants
Coaching training is scheduled to begin PROMPTLY at 9 a.m. on Sept. 24-25, and Feb. 26-2, 2009. Training will be held in the Twin Lakes Room in the Pocahontas office. Sessions will end at 3 p.m. Water and coffee will be provided in the morning with ice water offered at noon. Lunch is provided.
If you are attending this training, please register prior to Wednesday, Sept. 24. Everyone needs to register even if credit is not desired. This form will provide instructions for registering online. To understand what is required in this course, please refer to the Collaborative Learning Log, Observation Form, Syllabus, and Rubric for details. All work must be submitted on May 5, 2009.
All forms can be found in the folder entitled “PD Strand - Coaching” which has been added to Documents in AEA Manager.
Purchasing a Microsoft product? You’re eligible for a discount!
The Iowa Educator Consortium, an initiative of Iowa’s Area Education Agencies, offers Microsoft products at discounted prices. This offer is for AEA staff, teachers and students.
Go to the IEC website: http://www.iec-ia.org
On the fall left column, scroll down to Teacher & Student Buys and below/to the side, scroll down to Microsoft.
This page includes a chart with the available software titles, estimated retail price and IEC discounted price. Please read and follow the “How to Order” directions under the chart.
To order, click on the link (http://iec.e-academy.com) and have your credit card information handy! Products will be shipped directly to the person doing the ordering.
Note: The easiest method for teachers/students is to use their school e-mail address (.k12.ia.us). K-12 Students/Teachers without school e-mail addresses will need to verify their Iowa student/teacher status by sending in a copy of their current student/faculty ID, report card, pay stub, etc. via PDF or fax. Orders will not be processed shipped until status is confirmed.
Reminder: There are limits on quantity (1) per student/teacher of each product.
Media support at meetings
When planning a meeting that may require audio/visual media support, please be sure to contact Ed Zimmerle.
Big picture PD
The following documents providing the big picture of professional development opportunities at PLAEA were distributed at the superintendents’ meeting.
Leadership Learning Opportunities
Educator Learning Opportunities
Hamilton County ARC to meet
Casey Westoff, Executive Director of The Arc of Iowa, will be the guest speaker at an informational meeting for the reorganization of Hamilton County ARC. The meeting will be at 7 p.m., Sept. 18 in the Purple Room at 500 Fairmeadow Road in Webster City. All people of Hamilton County with disabilities and their families as well as interested members of the county are invited.Coffee will be served. Questions? Call Diana Erickson 515-309-1544 (H) 515-290-5160 (C)
This week’s issue of Friday News includes: updated at 11:35 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10
- Big picture view of agency professional development - Something from Sandy
- Preparations for the upcoming all-agency meeting - homework alert!
- Health insurance books being distributed
- Sick leave bank reminder
- ICN conference call instructions
- More office phone extensions
- Constitution Day/Week resources
Agency Professional Development for 2008-09 - Something from Sandy
As we start a new year, I thought it appropriate to bring everyone up to date on the Teacher Quality legislation and the impact it has on agency professional development. I want to share a little information about the Agency Professional Development Plan, the alignment with the Iowa Teaching Standards, and the importance of accountability.
One of the components of the Teacher Quality legislation is for AEAs to have professional development plans that mirror those of LEAs. We have started the work on this agency professional development plan through the newly formed 3 D Committee. The plan is written based on a variety of sources of data and aligns with the agency comprehensive improvement plan.
Two sections will be outlined in Prairie Lakes’ Professional Development Plan. The first deals with agency-wide professional development such as the PD strands. The second section outlines attendance center plans. In our agency attendance center plans will include both zone meeting professional development and department professional development. The yearly action plans that department chairpersons write based on data will be included in this section.
The professional learning outlined in the professional development plan will align with the Iowa Teaching Standards and the AEA Criteria. As part of the legislature, Individual Teacher Professional Development Plans (similar to our Performance Appraisal Growth Plans) will make connections to the agency comprehensive improvement plan, the agency professional development plan and/or attendance center plans. More will be coming shortly on our agency Individual Teacher Professional Development Plans. Just remember, as you share artifacts or evidence of meeting the Iowa Teaching Standards with your supervisor, some of those artifacts could come from your learning based on this plan.
We have tried to follow the Iowa Professional Development Model when planning professional development for the PD Strands, Zone Meetings and Department Meetings. Part of the Iowa Professional Development Model is to collect ongoing data (formative evaluation) and summative or program evaluation data. This also aligns with the new agency professional development plan required through Teacher Quality. Components in this plan will monitor the implementation and effectiveness. Because we desire to provide a quality learning experience that includes implementation of the learning, staff will be expected to complete implementation requirements. Feedback will be provided by Zone Coordinators based on the implementation artifacts submitted. These will be outlined for the PD Strands, Zone Meetings and Department Meetings.
The Teacher Quality Committee has also aligned payment for work outside the contract day to the agency professional development plan for licensed staff. Licensed staff will have the opportunity to participate in activities connected to the PD Strands, Zone Meetings and/or Department Meetings. More information will be coming out on the requirements for these additional hours of work.
We are looking forward to an exciting year of continuous, lifelong learning (one of our Prairie Lakes values) as we always move toward being the best we can be…as individuals, as team members, as collaborators and partners, and as an agency.
All-Agency PD “homework” assignment
In preparation for the Sept. 16 all-agency staff meeting, staff are asked to read pp. 1-40 in the Speed of Trust. During the afternoon portion, you will need a picture (any size, shape, color) of a child you really care about. It could be a son/daughter, grandchild, neighbor or perhaps one you work with in a school that you want the best for.
The meeting begins promptly at 9 a.m. with only coffee available in the morning. Lunch and beverages are provided. Tentative agenda is as follows:
- Introduction to the Speed of Trust
- Celebrations, introductions of new staff, digging into/reviewing data sources
11:15-12:30 Lunch - Getting to know the Iowa Core Curriculum
- Wrap-up
Next week’s Friday News will include table seating assignments and the debut of a new table arrangement at the Expo Center.
Health insurance books distributed
New health insurance books are going out through the AEA van mail. If you haven’t received one by Sept. 12, please contact Brenda Hebert.
Sick leave bank deadline
Forms are due Sept. 15. You MUST return this form to Deb Gade even if you DO NOT intend to participate.
ICN conference calls
Need to set up a conference call? The Iowa Communications Network offers a discounted, easy-to-use teleconferencing solutions. Each office has a unique code. Details can be found in AEA Manager>Documents>Training Materials & Resources>ICN Conference Calling Instructions. OR…use the Search feature and enter ICN. Voila!
Office phone extensions
Algona
Storm Lake
Estherville
Spencer
Rockwell City
Updated Pocahontas
Jefferson
Constitution Day/Week details
In 2004, the U.S. Congress passed legislation requiring educational institutions that receive federal funding to present a program focused on the U. S. Constitution each year on Constitution and Citizenship Day. The Center for Civic Education, in collaboration with the American Association of School Administrators, is proud to offer free lessons on the Constitution for use in celebrating Constitution and Citizenship Day on September 17, 2008. Constitution and Citizenship Week is September 17-23, which affords teachers the opportunity to incorporate these special lessons at any time that during the week.
Lessons for grades K-12 are available for no cost from the Center’s website at constitutionday.civiced.org. These lessons, designed to assist schools and federal agencies to meet the requirements of the legislation, have been adapted from the Center’s We the People: The Citizen & the Constitution and Foundations of Democracy curricular materials. Audio recordings of selected Constitution Day lessons are also available on the Center’s website. Five new lessons will be available September 8.
If you have any questions or would like more information about the Center’s curriculum, visit our website at http://www.civiced.org or contact the Center directly at 800-350-4223.
This week’s installment of Friday News is being posted today, Wednesday, rather than its usual day of distribution. This is due to the need to ensure our staff have the Iowa Core Curriculum information that is being sent out today to our districts. This week’s issue of Friday News includes:
- Iowa Core Curriculum details for Prairie Lakes AEA
- Important information for staff attending facilitation strand PD
- Essential news for staff about tax-sheltered annuity
- Down’s Syndrome Buddy Walk planned
Rolling out Iowa Core Curriculum at Prairie Lakes AEA
The Iowa Core Curriculum announcement and brochure that the districts will be receiving are included in this post. Timelines for this roll-out were fast and furious! With the expectations of a quick turn-around there was little time to get all preparations made without allowing for much advance notice. In fact, LEAD, ACT, Consultants, and the Chairpersons are still in the process of figuring out how PLAEA staff involvement may actually occur to maximize our assistance and learning as well. At this point the possibility exists that at least one district support team member may be able to attend with the district leadership team at each session and perhaps the zone coordinators as well. Iowa Core Curriculum: Leadership Development; Prairie Lakes AEA Roles and Responsibilities - 2008-09 will be posted soon.
The brochure includes dates and highlights that these sessions will provide the leadership experiences for the Curriculum Leadership Network (CLN), Collaborative School Improvement Network (CSIN), Principals’ Network, and High School Redesign for the 2008-2009 school year. Sessions will be facilitated by the Iowa Core Curriculum Network Team members, Kim Rost, Peter Holly, Laura Horan, Cheryl Mullenbach, and Lois Irwin, as a statewide initiative with the Iowa Department of Education with implementation by all Iowa AEA systems.
Registration is required using this form. Deadline is Sept. 22!!
The Iowa Core Curriculum: “Right time, right place, right people”
Right time
Every student in Iowa deserves an education that helps them succeed in the new global economy.
The Iowa Core Curriculum identifies a set of essential skills and concepts in literacy, math, science, social studies and 21st century learning skills that Iowa students must know to succeed in today’s competitive world.
With the continued focus on raising student achievement in Iowa, the Iowa Core Curriculum takes learning to the next level for all Iowa’s students.
Right place
As a leader in education, Iowa is the one to move education to a new level.
The Iowa Core Curriculum builds on our state’s long history of community leadership in education and relies on local partners to implement the core curriculum in high schools by 2012 and in elementary and middle schools by 2014.
The detail provided by the Iowa Core Curriculum fits well into Iowa’s education structure, which includes learning targets for students at each grade level, achievement benchmarks, and mandated core content standards.
Right people
Iowans, representing education and business, developed the Iowa Core Curriculum.
The Iowa Core Curriculum and accompanying professional development for teachers are the critical pieces to infusing rigorous content into classroom instruction and raising student achievement.
Our teachers have the greatest impact on student learning and they are up to the task.
Attention: facilitation strand participants
Facilitation training is scheduled from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Sept. 8-11 at the Fort Dodge Banquet Center, located on the east side of Fort Dodge next to Tom Donney Motors, 3521 5th Ave. S. (For those unfamiliar with the center, it is a few blocks east of Menards in Fort Dodge.) Water and coffee will be provided in the morning; with iced and water offered at noon. Lunch is provided. There are no vending machines at the Banquet Center!
If you are attending this training, you MUST register regardless of whether you are taking it for credit! This form gives the registration details. Implementation logs are also required and must be turned in quarterly to Sandy Spangler. This is one way to practice and reflect on what you’ve learned as a result of the training. Here is the syllabus.
A folder entitled, “PD Strand-Facilitation Training” has been added to Documents in AEA Manager. This folder will include information for this stand, as well as a list of staff members attending this training is also in this folder.
Change in payroll deductions for TSAs
As of Jan. 1, 2009, the payroll department will no longer be able to complete a payroll deduction to existing tax-sheltered annuities. An new tax-sheltered annuity account will need to be set up and the approved list of providers available here. A conversation with your financial advisor is recommended. A webcast is scheduled in September and list of scheduled sessions, as well as additional details are included in this update.
A sign up sheet will follow in the next month. At that time, you will need to sign up for a provider and sign a new agreement for payroll deduction. There will also be a waiver form for you to sign if you choose not to participate. This is an opportunity for all staff to sign-up for a TSA.
Questions? Contact Brenda Hebert in Payroll.
Join the Buddy Walk
The Buddy Walk will be Sunday, Sept. 28 at Call State Park, Algona. Registration begins at 1:30 p.m., and the walk starts at 2:30 p.m. Additional activities includes an ice cream social, silent auction, kid games and more. For further information, contact one of the following:Tara Rochleau, 515-341-7004, Jill Conlon, 712- 837-4726, Scott Hallgren, 712-363-0933, or Donna Seehusen, 712-335-3279.
The Friday News includes the following items:
- Iowa State Fair photo album
- Prairie Lakes AEA PowerPoints
- Sick leave bank reminder
- 1st Scout is out…Monday
- September birthdays
Glimpses of the Iowa State Fair - U Had To Love It!
For the first time in the history of the Iowa State Fair, Iowa’s Area Education Agencies had a presence with a booth in the Varied Industries Building. During the 11-day run of the fair, each of the 10 AEAs were responsible for staffing the booth for one day. (Members of the State AEA Public Relations Committee took the “extra” day.) A HUGE thanks to our own PLAEA staff members who took time from their busy lives and schedules to work a VERY busy booth:
- Bert Hersom
- Deb Gade
- Sandy Spangler
- Kathy Rhode
- Lynn Vaught
- Kay Forsythe
- Linda Williamson
- Jon Smith
- Kim Rost
- Connie Johnson
Kids lined up to be tattooed, get a pencil and stick a pin in the map to indicate their school district. School Specialty also donated crayons which were given away in the booth along with coloring pages. The theme was “It’s all about the kids.”
Photos from our time at the fair can be found online at http://www.aea8.k12.ia.us/index.cfm?nodeID=15995&albumID=741&action=dspalbum.
Prairie Lakes PowerPoints
Preparing a presentation on behalf of Prairie Lakes AEA? A variety of Prairie Lakes AEA PowerPoint templates has been added to AEA Manager>Documents>The Source>Templates. Please download and use these designs when presenting on a behalf of PLAEA.
Sick leave bank reminder
Forms are due Sept. 15.
Scout will be out
The link to the first Scout will be distributed to all educators on Monday. It is LIVE right now and can be viewed at http://plaeascout.wordpress.com.
September birthdays
1 Kathie Mueller
1 Carole Klein
4 Jennifer Traub
6 Deb Henricksen
8 Marilyn Imming
8 Marti Bomgaars
9 Melissa E Rucker
13 Linda Harms
14 Kathy Molden
15 Donna Davis
15 Lorie Spanjers
16 Cara Reedy
18 Rachel Joynt
19 Diane Twait-Nelsen
20 Paula Laughlin
21 Sonna Neumeister
21 Jean Mohr
22 Gale Randall
23 Cami Parker
24 Kathy L Rhode
24 Kristin Ahrens
27 Randy Marks
28 Kathy Tinker
30 Kerry Altringer
Welcome to the first issue of the Friday News! How can it possibly be the 2008-09 school year already? This week’s issue includes information on the following topics:
- Welcome to our new staff
- Phone extension updates
- Zone meeting details
- Where can I find the calendars for my districts?
- Scout has been revived!
- Need assistance with your computer? Call Tonia!
- Mid- to late-August birthdays
- How do I find out what’s happening today at PLAEA?
- Lane change deadline
- Sick leave bank opportunity
- Cell phone discounts
Please give a warm Prairie Lakes AEA welcome to the newest members to our PLAEA “Ohana.” (For those who need a refresher, “ohana” is the Hawaiian word for family and we refer a quote from the movie, “Lilo and Stitch.” “Ohana means family. Family means no one is left behind - or forgotten.”)
Our new staff members have spent this week in trainings designed to prepare them for life at Prairie Lakes AEA. While the names, job titles and locations are below, we look forward to officially introducing them to our entire “ohana” at the Sept. 16 all-agency professional development day.
New faces in Zone 1
Tiffanie Dau - AEA Rep/Special Education Consultant
Carrell Fiala - Half-Time ECSE Teacher/Consultant
Carole Klein - Secretary
Patti Olthoff - Half-time Audiometrist
New faces in Zone 2
Rebecca Buckridge - ECSE Teacher/Consultant, Estherville office
Sarah Kollasch - Half-time Audiometrist, Zone 2, Estherville office
New faces in Zone 3
Stacy Bezoni - AEA Rep/Special Education Consultant
Leslie Franzmier - AEA Rep/Special Education Consultant
Julie Meyer - AEA Rep/Special Needs Facilitator
New faces in Zone 4
Tiffany Holt - Communications Paraprofessional, Rockwell City office
Leigh Anne Oswald - Secretary, Rockwell City office
New faces in Zone 5
Katie Darby - Speech-language pathologist (not starting until late Sept/early Oct)
Jordan Lill - AEA Rep/School Psychologist
New faces in Zone 6
Kayla Haberl - Physical Therapist, Jefferson office
Sharon Richardson - AEA Rep/School Psychologist, Jefferson office
Amanda Sigler - Speech-language pathologist, Fort Dodge office
Phone extension changes
As staff settle into new offices, the phone extension lists are updated and will be shared here. Click on the office below to access the phone list.
Zone meeting details
With the first zone meeting of the year fast approaching, it’s important to share some changes to the structure, function and focus of these get-togethers.
Why the change? As Dr. Kay has stated, “Feedback is the breakfast of champions.” The RISE report, statements in the staff survey, reviews of General Education Interventions (GEI) and the state’s focus on RtI, all indicated it was time to work differently. It was an opportunity to “live” our values and beliefs; specifically the belief that learning must be differentiated in order to meet the needs of the agency, the district and individual. Some of the membership on core teams didn’t fit and may not have been meaningful and perhaps we were trying to accomplish too much. Meeting on a common day gives what research indicates is effective practice. It may not be the ideal situation, but it’s a start.
- Zone meetings are now made up of two half-day sessions. The morning will be a time for Collaborative Learning Teams with the afternoon focus on District Support Teams. Meetings will be held monthly.
- Attendance in the morning will look different than the afternoon.
- This replaces AEA Core Teams. Many staff will continue to participate in district leadership teams and other learning/leadership teams within the districts.
- Collaborative Learning Teams will meet in the morning with the learning focused on learning about Response to Intervention (RtI) by working as a collaborative learning team. Staff members in the following disciplines are required to attend the CLT meetings: AEA reps, media/tech consultants, SI consultants, PD consultants, area-wide consultants, PT/OT (AEA staff only, not contracted), itinerant teachers of hearing impaired, SLPs (including contracted retirees), early childhood, Early ACCESS liaison, transition coordinators, assistive technology coordinator and Reading Recovery teacher/leader. The following staff members do not need to attend the CLT meetings: audiologists, classified staff, itinerant teachers of visually impaired, O/M specialists and KIDS workers.
- Teams will be assigned by the Zone Coordinator.
The following staff should attend all of the collaborative learning team meetings in the zone listed behind his/her name. These assignments were made because the staff member’s skill and expertise were a match with the needs in that particular zone.
Karen Ackerman – Zone 1
Rachel Allen-McHugh - Zone 6
Karen Appleton - Zone 2
Trese Arends – Zone 5
Michelle Arneson - Zone 2
Becky Banks - Zone 6
Sue Beach- Zone 5
Marti Bomgaars – Zone 1
Kathy Brenny - Zone 3
Elaine Cook – Zone 4
Doreen DeBeck – Zone 3
Dorothy DeGroot - Zone 4
Dawn Fode – Zone 3
Kayla Haberl– Zone 6
Linda Linn - Zone 2
Judy Mischke – Zone 2
Mary Pauk – Zone 5
Gale Randall – Zone 3
Janet Ryan - Zone 4
Nancy Schofield- Zone 6
Donna Sennert – Zone 4
Jon Smith – Zone 6
Diane Twait-Nelsen – Zone 2
District Support Team members are folks with expertise in school improvement and due process, i.e. SI consultants and AEA Reps. Many other Prairie Lakes AEA staff members provide services and support when needed. The DST will meet in the afternoon of the zone meeting.
More details will be shared at the zone meetings and with staff in future issues of Friday News.
District calendars
All of the school calendars are on our website at http://www.aea8.k12.ia.us/en/about_our_schools/school_calendars.cfm
If you click on the file, it will download the Excel file that contains all of the calendars. The calendars are compiled by zones and that is indicated at the bottom of each worksheet.
Scout will soon be out!
A blog for educators will launch next week and will share news, announcements, learning opportunities and other “stuff” with ALL educators in Prairie Lakes AEA. (It might help to think of it as a “Friday News” for educators as the process is VERY similar.)
The URL will be sent via email to ALL educators in Prairie Lakes AEA. ALL flyers, announcements, and other information of interest to our school partners, should be sent to Connie Johnson so it can be included in the news. Scout will be distributed twice a month and the schedule includes copy deadlines and dates the URL will be sent to our educators. The first entry will launch next week!
A link to Scout will also be located on the front page of our website. Look on the navigation bar on the left side of our website! Share the URL and if you hear of someone who isn’t receiving it and would like to, please contact Connie.
Need assistance with your computer or other technical support?
Tonia VerHelst, Application Trainer/Help Desk Specialist, will be providing application training and technical support to Prairie Lakes AEA staff. Tonia can be contacted at the Pocahontas office at 866-540-3858 ext 2002 or tverhelst@aea8.k12.ia.us. Please contact Tonia to request training or technical support on application-related issues.
Staff celebrating mid to late August birthdays
16 Jacinta Williams
16 Jane Jacobson
16 Lori Caron
16 Sarah Johnson
17 Amy Thompson
17 Kathy Hansen
19 Deb Rowland
19 Lisa Zigrang
21 Lynn Beisch
23 Polly Connors
23 Ann Gale
23 Karen Appleton
24 Dan Severson
25 Gina Blomberg
26 Maurita Aubrey
28 Rachel Allen-McHugh
29 Dorothy DeGroot
30 Eileen Carroll
What’s going on today at PLAEA?
Many staff members have asked the question, “How do I find out what’s going on in Prairie Lakes AEA? Is there a one place that has all of the events and meetings for Prairie Lakes AEA?” The answer is, “YES!” Log into AEA Manager and select PD Polly form the View Calendar dropdown menu on the right side of the screen. If you cannot see it, please ask your secretary to add you to the Calendar Permissions.
If you are scheduling an agency training, meeting, etc., it’s advisable to check PD Polly to avoid as many potential conflicts as possible. Once you’ve set the date, be sure to add the event to PD Polly. This can be done by giving the information to your secretary.
The information is also publicly accessible in the Upcoming Events section on our website. (The public cannot “see” this information in PD Polly because it is housed in AEA Manager which takes a username and password to access.)
Lane changes deadline
The deadline for an employee to submit changes on the salary schedule is Sept. 1. These requests should be submitted to Steve Beeghley.
Sick Leave Bank enrollment
Each year, staff members who earn sick leave are eligible to donate one non-refundable day to the sick leave bank. Please print this form and indicate your desire to either particiapte or decline the offer. Sign, date, and return to Deb Gade in HR. These forms MUST include your signature so you will need to print and sign the form before returning it. The signed form can be emailed as a pdf to Deb; sent via van to Deb at Building 97 Route 7 ; or mailed to Prairie Lakes AEA PO Box 802 Pocahontas, IA 50574 Attn: D Gade If you have any questions, please contact Steve Beeghley or Deb. Deadline to participate is Sept. 15!
Cell phone discounts
Many cell phones companies offer a discount to state employees through the Iowa Educator Consortium, an initiative of Iowa’s AEAs. If interested, click on the following URL to contact your preferred provider. Most of the time you would need to speak to the specific person listed on this page as your local provider may not be able to assist you in this area.
http://www.iec-ia.org/vnews/display.v/ART/456315d889200
Next week’s issue will include photos from our foray at the Iowa State Fair! U Gotta Love it!
Welcome to the new face for Friday News! At its finest, a blog shares information and also provides an opportunity for readers to comment and add their own thoughts on the subject. Dr. Kay will be frequent, featured blogger offering news, thoughts and other perspectives that affect Prairie Lakes AEA.
What can you expect?
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A reminder with the URL will be sent out each Friday.
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This site can be bookmarked and referenced whenever you wish.
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All information is archived on the site. Thanks to the search box and tags that help make searching easier, information can be retrieved without reviewing past issues of Friday News.
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A link has been placed in the Agency Tools box in AEA Manager. If the URL is forgotten it can be accessed through that point.
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Are you RSS feed savvy? Simply subscribe and your feed reader will alert you when the Friday News is updated.
How to add your comments, ideas, thoughts to the blog
Did you read something on the blog and feel compelled to comment? Like to contribute news from your corner of PLAEA? Want to read comments left by others? Here’s what you can do to make that happen.
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Under the headline, there is a line that includes the date the article was published and the word Comments.
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Click Comments and a text box will appear. You’ll also need to enter your name and email address in the boxes to the left. This is required!
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When your comment is approved, ONLY your name will appear with the comment. It is OK for you to identify yourself with a code name, i.e. Idea Girl or IMRunner.
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All comments are read before being published on the site. While the guidelines are being updated, these are the guidelines under which we are currently operating.
Let’s get started with the new format for Friday News!
Agency calendar
The board has approved the 2008-09-staff-calendar
