Thursday, August 13, 2009

Rishel is full...

We (all three staffs of MSLA, Rishel, and KIPP HS) officially reported back today, and will have our first official meeting together on Friday afternoon. There has been no "boxing"... in fact, everyone is getting along really well.

Our school is shaping up nicely, and our contractors did a great job. We have had a few glitches... like no chairs (!!), but the company and New Schools Office have been quick to remedy the situation. Our playground hasn't been installed yet, but we still have 5 days.

Good news- our classroom libraries arrived today. It's always good to have books. I even got to go to the materials closet and take what I needed including a new stapler and teacher scissors! When I used the laminator, I didn't even need permission to turn it on, and I didn't have to keep track of the quantity used. (Those non educators may not understand the typical long process to get simple things like paper, pencils, or tape. Copy paper is a whole 'nother animal in the school culture.)

Our Specialized Service Providers (nurse, social worker, OT/PT, psychologist etc.) got their assignments and reported to buildings today. It was a leadership moment... I got the question- "Where's the principal?" My response, "We don't have one," caused much confusion and concern. I sent this person to talk to our lead teachers, who took the SSP to our special ed teacher. The lead teacher said, "Here's the special ed teacher, and she's in charge!"

What a novel concept:
Teachers are professionals with advanced degrees in their content areas, and know how to do their jobs. Wow...

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