Employee Newsletter 'e-nlightened' Jan. 14, 2010

January 14, 2010

The Communications Department produces the employee newsletter "e-nlightened" each week so that staff can keep in touch with what is going on across the district. E-mail your pictures and a brief description to Communications and we will include them as space permits.

BISD Communications Survey Closes Friday at 2 p.m.

BISD's communications department is seeking community and staff input as we assess the district's effort to provide timely and accurate information. Please assist us in evaluating our communications efforts. This survey will close at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 15.

Thank you for your assistance.

> Take Survey

(Survey is listed on the front of the Web under the Early Release Information)

Birdville Center of Technology and Advanced Learning selected as Apple Exemplary Program

John Couch, Apple's vice president of Education, announced this month that the Birdville Center of Technology and Advanced Learning (BCTAL) has been selected as an Apple Exemplary Program for the 2009-2010 school year. The BCTAL is one of 38 programs that Apple is recognizing nationwide.

"The Apple Exemplary Program designation is reserved for educational programs that are model implementations of Apple products and solutions," said Couch. "Only programs that have demonstrated a strong use of Apple technology in education and illustrate 'best practice' qualities of a 21st century learning environment are honored in this way."

In reviewing the work and education happening at the BCTAL, Apple was impressed by the use of "Apple professional level hardware and software" by Media Technology students. Couch described the Media Technology program as a model for other schools both locally and nationally.

BISD's Media Technology teachers are Karen Seimears and Trevor Kasal.

> View letter from Apple

Proper Planning for Your Retirement is Essential-Start the Process Now!

Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) District XI and Education Service Center (ESC) Region XI invite you to attend a retirement education seminar to learn about the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) and begin planning your retirement before the close of your career as an active educational employee.

> More Details

Richland High School's Jazz Band to Perform with Mike Williams

Richland High School's jazz band is performing with legendary artist Mike Williams, lead trumpet for the Count Basie Orchestra, at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 23 in the auditorium. North Ridge Middle School's jazz band will perform first at 7 p.m. Following the concert, there will be a reception to enble students to meet Mike Williams. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students. For information or to buy tickets, visit www.soundsofbasie.com.

Haltom High's Area Band Friends Host Tournament

Haltom High School's Area Band Friends are hosting a golf/fishing tournament at Willow Springs Golf Club on Feb. 20. Registration begins at 7 a.m. for fishing and 10:30 a.m. for golf, with the actual events beginning at 7:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., respectively. The cost for both is $70, which includes lunch. Willow Springs Golf Club is at 1714 Avondale-Haslet Road in Haslet. Should the event be cancelled by the club due to weather, fees will be fully refunded. For information, contact Barry Chester at fund_raising2@haltomband.org or 817.713.9747.

> View flyer

Adult Education Classes-Updated Information

Birdville ISD has new adult education classes scheduled for the spring that empower individuals to become self sufficient, with skills necessary for future employment and personal success. Classes are: Introduction to Computers, Web Design, Conversational Spanish, MAC Basics, and Career Counseling Services. Classes begin Feb. 1 and end March 31. For registration information, call 817.547.3800.

> View Flyer

Providing positive, accurate and timely information and support is the goal of Birdville ISD's Communications Department. Be a part of the latest and become a fan of BISD on facebook.