Dear ISD Parents, 

The staff and I experienced a full week of new learning.  The theme of our professional development day on Tuesday, November 5th, was digital learning.  Teachers had a menu of choices to choose from including learning about new apps, math websites that align with the Common Core standards, Blue Ribbon Computer programs among others.  In addition, teachers had the opportunity to take a version of the SBAC, the new test students in grades 3, 4 and 5 will be taking in the spring.  This test assesses learning as related to the Common Core standards.  (We will be offering parents the opportunity to take a version of the test as well in the near future; please look for more info about it to be coming home soon.)

On Wednesday afternoon, our faculty meeting was dedicated to hearing a presentation on bullying by one of our district psychologists, Ms. Alina Boie.  Ms. Boie shared her vast knowledge of the topic, including statistics, as well as strategies for preventing the behavior.  One of these strategies includes looking for opportunities throughout the school day to teach empathy, the antithesis of bullying.  Ms. Boie will be conducting a parent presentation on Wednesday, December 4th at 7:00 pm at ISD.  Please note it on your calendar and try to attend.

There is no school on Monday, November 11th, in honor of Veterans Day.  Please take a moment this weekend to discuss the importance of honoring our veterans with your children.  We will have our own ceremony on Tuesday, at 9:15 am in front of the school, weather permitting.

Lastly, our annual Math Night will be held on Thursday, November 14th from 6:15 to 7:15.  It is a wonderful event that combines learning and fun as students and parents participate in playing math games.  The computer lab will also be available for parents and students to explore some of the new math websites.  I hope you can come.