It's great to be back in school and get to spend time with your amazing children. The staff has had an exciting three days back and it was wonderful to have students back yesterday (Wednesday). It was truly heartwarming to see so many students excited to be back at school. I was very impressed with their ability to jump right back into the swing of things. Even though it was the first day back after a long break, I observed students working hard in class, being polite to one another in the halls, and welcome new people to the building. It's great to wake up in the morning and be excited about coming to work. Thank you for making Steele such a great school and making that my reality every day.

As you know, the staff came back to school on Monday. We took the two days to review our PARCC scores and see what implications they have for our school. We had our District Literacy specialist lead Professional Development. This PD was based on pinpointing specific reading strategies to support all of our students. We also reflected on the way teams review student work and plan together. Through this reflection, we pinpointed strategies that are working and next steps to make these weekly planning sessions even more powerful. In addition, the teachers had individual and team planning time, to get ready for the semester.

I know that two days back without students is a lot, and can be stressful for families. I want you to know that our staff used the time wisely to grow our practice and prepare for the return of our students.

We also warmed up one day by watching a TED talk. I've included the link here. I think it is really neat and something you may find valuable.

Cheers,

Kevin

The next PTA Meeting will be Tuesday, January 12. Join us in the auditorium from 6:00 to 7:30 PM; child care will be available in the gym for $3 per child. Drinks and conversation will continue nearby following the meeting.

• What: Wash Park Home Tour Kickoff
• When: January 14, 6:00 to 8:00 PM
• Where: Home of Danielle Vitale (Wash Park Home Tour Chair), 627 S. Corona St.

Steele Dines Out at The Garlic Knot (282 S. Logan, at Alameda) for January!  Dine in, take out, or place a delivery order on Tuesday, January 19 any time between 11:00 am and 9:00 pm. No need to present a flyer or mention Steele Elementary, The Garlic Knot will give back 10% of ALL proceeds from the entire day's sales. Tell your friends and family!

South High Screening: CODEGIRL
A screening of the film CODEGIRL will take place TONIGHT, Thursday, January 7, 7:00 PM at Denver South High School. The screening, which will take place in the auditorium, is part of South's PTSA initiative to educate our surrounding community. For more information, click here.