News From the Principal

May 4, 2009

We are now done with all the MCA reading and math tests.  This week will we be completing the MCA science test for our 8^th graders.  Mid term reports have been mailed out.  Please contact your student’s counselor if you have any questions.

 

One of the items that parents have been concerned about is the flu.  In this case, the notorious H1N1 virus or more commonly called  “Swine Flu”.  The Minnesota Department of Health advises that general safety precautions be exercised.  Infection prevention measures include simple steps such as:

 

• covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing or coughing into your covered elbow rather than your hands
• washing your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub and
• staying home when you are sick
• Limit contact with others and avoid close personal contact. Do not send your child to school to have their symptoms checked in the health office.

 

North’s advisory teachers have talked with their students to remind them to follow these precautions.

 

 

Below is a message from Superintendent Jordahl concerning the H1NI virus:

 

The case in ROCORI has been positively confirmed as the H1 N1 (swine flu). Please understand that all school districts are taking leadership of the MN Dept. of Health with regards to monitoring and procedures.

 

Stay calm; don't panic. We are monitoring this very closely. The Minnesota Department of Health advises that general safety precautions be exercised.  Infection prevention measures include simple steps such as:

1. covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing or coughing into your covered elbow rather than your hands
2. washing your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub and
3. staying home when you are sick
4. Limit contact with others and avoid close personal contact. Do not send your child to school to have their symptoms checked in the health office.

 

Dr. Steve Jordahl, Superintendent

District Administration Office

1000 44th Avenue North, Suite 100

St. Cloud, MN 56303-2037

 

 

On Thursday of this week ROCORI will be coming to North to play softball and is also scheduled to come to North’s track meet.  I will be sending home a letter to parents concerning these two activities.  We absolutely believe that there is no danger to our students by participating in these two activities but understand the concern of parents.  Because of this we will leave it up to parents to determine if they want their student to participate in the softball games or track meet.  The Minnesota Department of Health has not indicated any concerns they have for ROCORI participating in sport activities.

 

Some additional thoughts on homework

 

Be Interested and Interesting

Make time to take your child to the library to check out materials needed for homework

(and for enjoyment) and read with your child as often as you can. Talk about school and

learning activities in family conversations. Ask your child what was discussed in class

that day. If she doesn’t have much to say, try another approach. For example, ask her to read aloud a story she wrote or to talk about what she found out from a science

experiment.  Attend school activities, such as parent-teacher conferences, plays, concerts, open houses and sports events. If you can, volunteer to help in your child’s classroom or at special events. Getting to know some of your child’s classmates and their parents builds a support network for you and your child. It also shows your child that his home and school are a team.

 

How to Help: Monitor Assignments

Children are more likely to complete homework successfully when parents monitor their

assignments. How closely you need to monitor your child depends upon her age, how

independent she is and how well she does in school. Whatever the age of your child, if

she is not getting assignments done satisfactorily, she requires more supervision.

Here are some ways to monitor your child’s assignments.

 

Ask about the School’s Homework Policy

At the start of the school year, ask your child’s teacher about any rules or guidelines that children are expected to follow as they complete homework. Ask about the kinds of assignments that will be given and the purposes for the assignments.  Talk with the teacher about your role in helping with homework. Expectations for parent involvement vary from teacher to teacher. Some teachers want parents to monitor homework closely, whereas others want them simply to check to make sure the assignment is completed on time.  Ask the teacher to call if any problems with homework come up. Let her know that you will do the same.

 

Be Available

Many elementary school students often like to have someone with them to answer

questions as they work on assignments. If your child is cared for by someone else, talk to that caregiver about how to deal with homework. For an older child, if no one will be

around, let him know when you want him to begin work and call to remind him if necessary.  However, if the teacher has made it known that students are to do homework on their own, limit your assistance to your child to assuring that assignments are clear and that necessary supplies are provided. Too much parent involvement can make children dependent—and takes away from the value of homework as a way for children to become independent and responsible.

 

Look over Completed Assignments

It’s usually a good idea to check to see that your elementary school child has finished her assignments. If your middle-school student is having trouble finishing assignments, check his work, too. After the teacher returns completed homework, read the comments to see if your child has done the assignment satisfactorily.

 

 

The remainder of the year will go fast and we will soon reach summer vacation. 

 

Below you will find information on a workshop called "Winning with Words: Sharing the Power."  Take a look and see if you are interested.

 

Please let me know if there are items you would like me to cover in the next blog. 

Bob Huot

Principal, North Junior High

Robert.huot@isd742.org

 

 

Dear Robert,

 

Parents, do you find yourself locking horns with your children over what you each want? Take heart!  You can both win by learning to share the power!!  On May 12 from Noon - 1:00 pm come share in a Munch and Learn session with other parents called "Winning with Words: Sharing the Power."  When you use your words in a respectful way you are being a role model for your children.  Come to this seminar to learn how to calm storms in a courteous way, set firm limits in loving ways, teach your child real world ways, and build a more positive relationship with each child.  Bring your lunch and we will provide beverages and cookies.

 

Who should attend:  Parents, grandparents, foster parents, child care providers, preschool staff, coaches, counselors and others who have a concern for interacting with children.

 

Speaker:  Peggy Imholte has taught hundreds of parents, school staff and others interacting with youth a variety of essential behavior management techniques.  Peg's drive and her passion for youth success and parent excellence will inspire you, challenge you - and remain with you long after her sessions end! 

 

Title:                Winning with Words: Sharing the Power

Presenter:       Peggy Imholte

Date:               Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Time:               12:00-1:00 p.m. (registration 11:45 a.m.)

Fee:                 $15.00/person, $25/two people

Location:         Resource Training and Solutions

                        West side Bremer Bank Building, Suite 550

                        4150 2nd St. South, St. Cloud, MN 56301

Code               7758   

 

To register or for more information:

Go online at www.resourcetraining.com <http://www.resourcetraining.com/>

or call me at Resource Training & Solutions at 255-3236 or 888-447-7032.

 

Martha Roth

Resource Training & Solutions

mroth@resourcetraining.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our school calendar of events is found at the very end of the blog.

 

 

 “On Target”

We will also be doing “On Target” on the following Saturdays:

May 2, 9

 

 

North Junior High School

Important Dates

2008-09

(A month by month calendar with all events may be found on North’s Web Page (www.isd742.org/~north/)

First Quarter : September 2 - November 6

COMPLETED

 

Second Quarter : November 10 - January 23

COMPLETED

 

 

Third Quarter : January 27 – April 3

COMPLETED

 

 

Fourth Quarter : April 6 – June 3

 

May

May 4-8       MCA Science Test

May 12         Orchestra Concert 7:30 p.m.

May 14         Band Concert 7:30 p..m. Gym

May 18         Northside Band Concert 6:30 p.m.

May 21         Choir Concert 7:30 p.m. Gym

May 22        Awards Assembly – School Carnival

May 25        Memorial Day – No School

May 26                       Site Council 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

May 28-June 3           Final exams must be scheduled during this time; no

                                  activities, field trips, concerts, etc. may be scheduled

 

June

June 4         Last day of school

June 5         Teacher in-service/workshop (or make up day if a snow day is used)

 

 

April 27, 2009

We are just about done with our MCA reading and math tests for 7^th and 8^th graders.  We still need to finish with our 6^th graders and the 8^th graders need to complete the MCA science test.  In May we will give the final MAP test.  The MAP tests will show the growth students have made during the year.  We will send a report home concerning the MAP tests with the end of the year report card. The results of both the MCA and MAP tests will help place students in classes they may need additional help in.  Please explain to your student the importance of doing their best on these tests. 

 

Mid term reports

It is hard to believe but we are at the mid point for the 4^th quarter.

We are in the process of putting together the 4^th quarter mid term reports. The midterm reports are sent to parents of students who are receiving a “D” or “F” grade. We will try to get the mid terms mailed out on Friday, May 1.

 

Site Council Meeting is tonight (April 27) at 6:45 in the North conference room across from the office.  We would love to see you there.

 

Below is some information on a food drive that North students helped with over the last three months:

 

Thank you so much for all your help over the past 3 months.

 

I wanted to share with you our amazing results to date.

            178,003 pounds (118,000 pounds from the Coborn's Castle)

            $108,000.00 (Total dollars donated to date)

 

Semi-total      286,003  pounds of food!   (This does not include the MN Food Share match!)

 

Our success is contributed to fantastic teamwork.  Thank you for helping out on Saturday and being available where needed.

 

Most importantly, Thank You for being positive role models for our community on what volunteerism is all about!

 

Thanks again,

Mary Krippner

Community Volunteer Coordinator

United Way of Central Minnesota

2700 1st Street N., Suite 300

St. Cloud, MN 56303

(320) 223-7991 - direct

 

 

Some additional thoughts on homework

 

Remove Distractions

Turn off the TV and discourage your child from making and receiving social telephone

calls during homework time. (A call to a classmate about an assignment, however, may

be helpful.)  Some children work well with quiet background music, but loud noise from the CD player, radio or TV is not OK. One history teacher laments, “I’ve actually had a kid turn in an assignment that had written in the middle, ‘And George Washington said, “Ohhhhh, I love you.”’ The kid was so plugged into the music that he wasn’t concentrating.”  If you live in a small or noisy household, try having all family members take part in a quiet activity during homework time. You may need to take a noisy toddler outside or into another room to play. If distractions can’t be avoided, your child may want to complete assignments in the local library.

 

Provide Supplies and Identify Resources

Have available pencils, pens, erasers, writing paper and a dictionary. Other supplies that might be helpful include a stapler, paper clips, maps, a calculator, a pencil sharpener, tape, glue, paste, scissors, a ruler, a calculator, index cards, a thesaurus and an almanac. If possible, keep these items together in one place. If you can’t provide your child with needed supplies, check with her teacher, school guidance counselor or principal about possible sources of assistance.  For books and other information resources, such as suitable computer Web sites, check with the school library or your local public library. Some libraries have homework centers designed especially to assist children with school assignments (they may even have tutors and other kinds of individual assistance).  You may want to ask your child’s teacher to explain school policy about the use of computers for homework. Certainly, computers are great learning and homework tools.  Your child can use her computer not only for writing reports and for getting information through Internet resource sites, but for “talking” with teachers and classmates about assignments. In many schools, teachers post information about homework assignments and class work on their own Web sites, which also may have an electronic bulletin board on which students can post questions for the teacher and others to answer. (For more information about using the Internet, see the U.S. Department of Education’s booklet,

Parents’ Guide to the Internet, listed in the Resources section, page <TK>.) However,

you don’t have to have a computer in your home for your child to complete homework

assignments successfully. Some schools may offer after-school programs that allow your child to use the school computers. And many public libraries make computers available to children.

12

 

Set a Good Example

Show your child that the skills he is learning are an important part of the things he will do as an adult. Let him see you reading books, newspapers and computer screens; writing reports, letters, e-mails and lists; using math to balance your checkbook or to measure for new carpeting; doing other things that require thought and effort. Tell your child about what you do at work.  Help your child to use everyday routines to support the skills he is learning—for example, teach him to play word and math games; help him to look up information about things in which he is interested—singers, athletes, cars, space travel and so forth; and talk with him about what he sees and hears as the two of you walk through the neighborhood, go shopping at the mall or visit a zoo or museum.

 

The remainder of the year will go fast and we will soon reach summer vacation. 

Below you will find information on a workshop called "Winning with Words: Sharing the Power."  Take a look and see if you are interested.

 

Please let me know if there are items you would like me to cover in the next blog. 

Bob Huot

Principal, North Junior High

Robert.huot@isd742.org

 

 

Dear Robert,

 

Parents, do you find yourself locking horns with your children over what you each want? Take heart!  You can both win by learning to share the power!!  On May 12 from Noon - 1:00 pm come share in a Munch and Learn session with other parents called "Winning with Words: Sharing the Power."  When you use your words in a respectful way you are being a role model for your children.  Come to this seminar to learn how to calm storms in a courteous way, set firm limits in loving ways, teach your child real world ways, and build a more positive relationship with each child.  Bring your lunch and we will provide beverages and cookies.

 

Who should attend:  Parents, grandparents, foster parents, child care providers, preschool staff, coaches, counselors and others who have a concern for interacting with children.

 

Speaker:  Peggy Imholte has taught hundreds of parents, school staff and others interacting with youth a variety of essential behavior management techniques.  Peg's drive and her passion for youth success and parent excellence will inspire you, challenge you - and remain with you long after her sessions end! 

 

Title:                Winning with Words: Sharing the Power

Presenter:       Peggy Imholte

Date:               Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Time:               12:00-1:00 p.m. (registration 11:45 a.m.)

Fee:                 $15.00/person, $25/two people

Location:         Resource Training and Solutions

                        West side Bremer Bank Building, Suite 550

                        4150 2nd St. South, St. Cloud, MN 56301

Code               7758   

 

To register or for more information:

Go online at www.resourcetraining.com <http://www.resourcetraining.com/>

or call me at Resource Training & Solutions at 255-3236 or 888-447-7032.

 

Martha Roth

Resource Training & Solutions

mroth@resourcetraining.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our school calendar of events is found at the very end of the blog.

 

 

 “On Target”

We will also be doing “On Target” on the following Saturdays:

May 2, 9

 

 

North Junior High School

Important Dates

2008-09

(A month by month calendar with all events may be found on North’s Web Page (www.isd742.org/~north/)

First Quarter : September 2 - November 6

COMPLETED

 

Second Quarter : November 10 - January 23

COMPLETED

 

 

Third Quarter : January 27 – April 3

COMPLETED

 

 

Fourth Quarter : April 6 – June 3

 

April               

April 3         END OF 3^RD QUARTER

April ?         8^th graders visit Apollo

April 20-May 1     Flexible Parent/Teacher Conferences

April 21,23  MCA Test – Grade 7

April 27       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

April 27-30 Midterm Week

     April 28,30  MCA Test – Grade 8

 

May

May 4-8       MCA Science Test

May 12         Orchestra Concert 7:30 p.m.

May 14         Band Concert 7:30 p..m. Gym

May 18         Northside Band Concert 6:30 p.m.

May 21         Choir Concert 7:30 p.m. Gym

May 22        Awards Assembly – School Carnival

May 25        Memorial Day – No School

May 26                       Site Council 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

May 28-June 3           Final exams must be scheduled during this time; no

                                  activities, field trips, concerts, etc. may be scheduled

 

June

June 4         Last day of school

June 5         Teacher in-service/workshop (or make up day if a snow day is used)

 

April 20, 2009

It won’t be long and April will be gone. Not that anyone is counting but a student today told me we only have 32 days of school left.

 

The weather is finally cooperating, snow is gone, fields are getting dry and our activities are trying to make up for lost time.  We are still in the process of working on our schedule and calendar for the 2009-10 school year.

 

Testing

We are continuing to give the MCA tests this week.  Please remind your student that these tests are important and will be one of the factors that will be used to place students in classes next year.

 

North’s PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention System) committee has been looking at dates for another student dance.  Right now we are looking at May 8 as a possible date.  We do not like to have any kind of dance on a Friday but we are running out of days that we do not have some kind of game going on.  If we have another dance we may need parent volunteers to help out.

I will keep you posted.

 

Site Council Meeting is next Monday (April 27) at 6:45 in the North conference room across from the office.  We would love to see you there.

 

Some additional thoughts on homework

 

What’s the Right Amount of Homework?

The right amount of homework depends on the age and skills of the child. National

organizations of parents and teachers suggest that children in kindergarten through

second grade can benefit from 10 to 20 minutes of homework each school day. In third

through sixth grades, children can benefit from 30 to 60 minutes a school day. In seventh

through ninth grades, students can benefit from spending more time on homework and

the amount may vary from night to night.

Amounts that vary from these guidelines are fine for some children and in some

situations. For example, because reading at home is especially important for children,

reading assignments might push the time on homework a bit beyond the amounts

suggested here.

If you are concerned that your child has either too much or too little homework, talk with

his teacher and learn about her homework policies.

10

 

 

 

How to Help: Show That You Think Education and

Homework Are Important

Children need to know that their family members think homework is important. If they

know their families care, children have a good reason to complete assignments and to

turn them in on time. You can do many things to show that your child that you value

education and homework.

 

Set a Regular Time for Homework

Having a regular time to do homework helps children to finish assignments. The best

schedule is one that works for your child and your family. What works well in one

household may not work in another. Of course, a good schedule depends in part on your

child’s age as well as her specific needs. For instance, one child may do homework best

in the afternoon, completing homework first or after an hour of play and another may do

it best after dinner. However, don’t let your child leave homework to do just before

bedtime.

Your child’s outside activities, such as sports or music lessons, may mean that you need a

flexible homework schedule. Your child may study after school on some days and after

dinner on others. If there isn’t enough time to finish homework, your child may need to

drop some outside activity. Let her know that homework is a high priority.

You’ll need to work with your elementary school child to develop a schedule. An older

student can probably make up a schedule independently, although you’ll want to make

sure that it’s a workable one. You may find it helpful to write out his schedule and put it

in a place where you’ll see it often, such as on the refrigerator door.

Some families have a required amount of time that their children must devote to

homework or some other learning activities each school night (the length of time can vary

depending upon the child’s age). For instance, if your seventh grader knows she’s

expected to spend an hour doing homework, reading or visiting the library, she may be

less likely to rush through assignments so that she can watch TV. A required amount of

time may also discourage her from “forgetting” to bring home assignments and help her

adjust to a routine.

 

Pick a Place

Your child’s homework area doesn’t have to be fancy. A desk in the bedroom is nice, but

for many children, the kitchen table or a corner of the living room works just fine. The

area should have good lighting and it should be fairly quiet.

Your child may enjoy decorating a special area for homework. A plant, a brightly colored

container to hold pencils and some favorite artwork taped to the walls can make

homework time more pleasant.

Next blog

 

 

The remainder of the year will go fast and we will soon reach summer vacation. 

 

Please let me know if there are items you would like me to cover in the next blog. 

Bob Huot

Principal, North Junior High

Robert.huot@isd742.org

 

 

 

Our school calendar of events is found at the very end of the blog.

 

 

 “On Target”

We will also be doing “On Target” on the following Saturdays:

May 2, 9

 

 

North Junior High School

Important Dates

2008-09

(A month by month calendar with all events may be found on North’s Web Page (www.isd742.org/~north/)

First Quarter : September 2 - November 6

COMPLETED

 

Second Quarter : November 10 - January 23

COMPLETED

 

 

Third Quarter : January 27 – April 3

COMPLETED

 

 

Fourth Quarter : April 6 – June 3

 

April               

April 3         END OF 3^RD QUARTER

April ?         8^th graders visit Apollo

April 20-May 1     Flexible Parent/Teacher Conferences

April 21,23  MCA Test – Grade 7

April 27       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

April 27-30 Midterm Week

     April 28,30  MCA Test – Grade 8

 

May

May 4-8       MCA Science Test

May 12         Orchestra Concert 7:30 p.m.

May 14         Band Concert 7:30 p..m. Gym

May 18         Northside Band Concert 6:30 p.m.

May 21         Choir Concert 7:30 p.m. Gym

May 22        Awards Assembly – School Carnival

May 25        Memorial Day – No School

May 26                       Site Council 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

May 28-June 3           Final exams must be scheduled during this time; no

                                  activities, field trips, concerts, etc. may be scheduled

 

June

June 4         Last day of school

June 5         Teacher in-service/workshop (or make up day if a snow day is used)

 

 

April 13, 2009

First of all, I apologize for not getting to my blog.  I can not believe that I have not gotten to this for a number of weeks.  I was thinking it was only a couple of weeks that I missed but it has been much longer.  This time of year is extremely busy and it feels like I am so far behind that I think I am ahead.  No matter, I will post each week until the school year is out. We have now finished the third quarter of school. 

 

We have mailed out the 3^rd quarter report cards and you should have received the report card over the spring break.  Please contact your student’s counselor if you did not receive one.   I am attaching a letter that I sent home with the report cards.

 

 

Dear Parents and Guardians of North Students:

With this letter, you will find your child’s third quarter report card.  Generally, if your child has “Cs” or above for all three quarters, he or she is making adequate to excellent educational progress.  Please review it carefully and if you have any questions contact your child’s counselor (Ms. Pruka– Grade 6/7, Mr. Shelstad – Grade 8) or teacher.  Many students at this time of year go through a mild “slump” and it is important that all of the adults in their lives continue to expect the best and support them to do their best.  If your child is not doing well, there are several things you might want to know and do:

1.      North does not socially promote students to the next grade.  Students must pass the majority of their classes to be passed to the next grade.

2.      North runs “On Target” three days a week after school to help students’ complete work. 

3.      Special monitoring programs can be designed for your child so that you can receive additional reports on progress.  We also have “On Target” on some Saturdays during the year.  Please call your student’s counselor with any questions.

4.      There will be a limited District summer school for junior high students.

The first part of April has been used for intense preparation for the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) exams.  The seventh grade MCAs will be on April 20^th  - 23^rd and the eighth grade exams will be on April 14^th - April 17^th  The 8^th grade science tests take place the week of May 4^th -5^th .  The 6^th grade MCA tests will be completed on April 22^nd, 23^rd, 28th and 29^th.  These are high stakes tests for our seventh and eighth graders and it is very important that students are here and are well rested.  No students will be excused from school during those days except for serious illness or emergencies. 

Our spring sports are starting and include the following sports: softball, baseball and track at North and 7-12 boys’ tennis and girls and boys golf at Apollo.  If your child is interested and has not seen/heard the information at North, call Mr. Holan at 251-2159, ext 4121.

Next year North will be using MCA and MAP test scores to determine if students need additional help in reading.  If students need additional help in reading, they will be placed in reading classes to help them get caught up.  These classes will not be optional and students will need to remain in the class until they demonstrate proficiency in reading.  We will also be increasing the length of most of our regular math classes next year to help our students become more proficient in math.

We continue to have a great year here at North.  The school climate continues to be positive and upbeat.  Thanks for your support and for the care and guidance of your children.

Sincerely,

 

Robert Huot

 

Testing

We will be starting our MCA testing this week.  Please refer to the above letter to get more information concerning the dates of the testing.  After the MCA tests are completed we will be giving the MAP test to the students.  We gave the MAP test to students at the start of the school year in both math and reading.  The test scores will provide us with information concerning the gains students have made from the start of the year.  We will mail the test scores to you with the end of the year report cards.

 

It is important to understand that the test scores will have a big part to play in the classes that students will be placed in next year.  We will have additional reading classes or classes that provide additional help in reading for students who are not proficient in reading.  These classes will not be optional for students and students will remain in the classes until they become proficient in reading.

 

Next year our regular math class time will be increased to better meet the needs of students.  Remember, in order for students to graduate in the future, they will need to complete Algebra II during high school.  We are adding time to our regular math classes to better prepare the student for this change.  Our Honor’s math and Algebra classes will remain at the same length for next year.  The class time will be increased for the students who need additional help in math.

 

We start getting our mid terms ready the week of April 27-May 1.  We will mail out the midterms the following week.  This will give parents the opportunity to see how their student is doing the 4^th quarter.

 

Budget reductions

There will be budget reductions for next year.  The amount of the cuts is still up in the air because of the state budget and contracts that need to be settled.  Either way we will need to cut 1.8 million or so for next years budget and more the year after that.  As usual, we will try to keep the budget cuts as far away from students as possible.

 

SKYWARD

The new student information system and parent portal for next year will be SKYWARD.

The parent portal that goes with this system is much better than the current SmartWeb system we have now.  In fact, there is no comparison between the two systems.  I am looking forward to the new system and I believe you will be extremely happy with the new system once it is put in place.

 

SmartWeb

We have been having some difficulties with the SmartWeb system with parents not getting the most current information updated.  We believe we have found the problem and it should be fixed by now. 

I am copying part of a booklet concerning homework and why we give homework to students. 

 

Foreword

Research shows clearly that children are more likely to succeed in learning when their

families actively support them. When family members read with their children, talk with

their teachers, participate in school or other learning activities and help them with

homework, they give children a tremendous advantage.

 

At the heart of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 is a promise to raise standards for all children and to help all children meet those standards. In support of this goal, President George W. Bush is committed to promoting the very best teaching programs. Well trained teachers and instruction that is based on research, can bring the best teaching approaches and programs to all children and help to ensure that “no child is left behind.”However, the hours in a school day are few and the time a teacher can spend with anyone child is limited. Teachers need the understanding and help of families in supporting classroom instruction. One important way that families can lend this support is by taking an interest in the homework that their children bring home and by finding the most effective ways to help their children with that homework.

 

Homework has been part of students’ lives since the beginning of formal schooling in the United States. It is important because it can improve children’s thinking and memory. It can help them to develop positive study skills and habits that will serve them well throughout their lives. It can encourage them to use time well, to learn independently and to take responsibility for their work.

 

But helping children with their homework benefits families as well. It can, for example,

be a way for families to learn more about what their children are learning in school and

an opportunity for them to communicate both with their children and with teachers and

principals.

 

Your interest in your children’s education can spark their enthusiasm and lead them to

understand that learning can be rewarding and is well worth the effort. We hope that you and your child find this booklet helpful.

 

Homework: A Concern for the Whole Family

Homework is an opportunity for children to learn and for families to be involved in their

children’s education. However, helping children with homework isn’t always easy. At

parent-teacher meetings and in conferences with parents, teachers often hear questions

such as:

_ How can I get Michael to do his homework? Every night it’s a struggle to get him

            to turn off the TV and do his homework.

_ Why isn’t Maria getting more homework?

_ Why is Jonathan getting so much homework?

_ When is Suki supposed to do homework? She takes piano lessons, sings in her

church choir, plays basketball and helps with family chores. There’s hardly any

time left to study.

_ How can I help Robert with his math homework when I don’t understand it?

_ Do homework assignments really help my child learn?

 

The Basics

Before discussing ways that you can help your child with homework, it is important to

discuss why teachers assign homework and how it benefits your child.

 

Why Do Teachers Assign Homework?

Teachers assign homework for many reasons. Homework can help their students

_ review and practice what they’ve covered in class;

_ get ready for the next day’s class;

_ learn to use resources, such as libraries, reference materials and computer Web

sites to find information about a subject;

_ explore subjects more fully than classroom time permits;

_ extend learning by applying skills they already have to new situations; and

_ integrate their learning by applying many different skills to a single task, such as

book reports or science projects.  Homework also can help students to develop good study habits and positive attitudes. It can

_ teach them to work independently; and

_ encourage self-discipline and responsibility (assignments provide some children

with their first chance to manage time and to meet deadlines).

 

In addition, homework can help create greater understanding between families and

teachers and provide opportunities for increased communication. Monitoring homework

keeps families informed about what their children are learning and about the policies and

programs of the teacher and the school.

 

Does Homework Help Children Learn?

Homework helps your child do better in school when the assignments are meaningful, are completed successfully and are returned to her∗ with constructive comments from the teacher. An assignment should have a specific purpose, come with clear instructions, be fairly well matched to a child’s abilities and help to develop a child’s knowledge and skills.

 

In the early grades, homework can help children to develop the good study habits and

positive attitudes described earlier. From third through sixth grades, small amounts of

homework, gradually increased each year, may support improved school achievement.

 

In seventh grade and beyond, students who complete more homework score better on

standardized tests and earn better grades, on the average, than do students who do less homework. The difference in test scores and grades between students who do more homework and those who do less increases as students move up through the grades.

 

Next blog

What’s the Right Amount of Homework?

 

The remainder of the year will go fast and we will soon reach summer vacation. 

 

Please let me know if there are items you would like me to cover in the next blog. 

Bob Huot

Principal, North Junior High

Robert.huot@isd742.org

 

 

 

Our school calendar of events is found at the very end of the blog.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 “On Target”

We will also be doing “On Target” on the following Saturdays:

April 18

May 2, 9

 

 

North Junior High School

Important Dates

2008-09

(A month by month calendar with all events may be found on North’s Web Page (www.isd742.org/~north/)

First Quarter : September 2 - November 6

COMPLETED

 

Second Quarter : November 10 - January 23

COMPLETED

 

 

Third Quarter : January 27 – April 3

COMPLETED

 

 

Fourth Quarter : April 6 – June 3

 

April               

April 3         END OF 3^RD QUARTER

April ?         8^th graders visit Apollo

April 20-May 1     Flexible Parent/Teacher Conferences

April 21,23  MCA Test – Grade 7

April 27       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

April 27-30 Midterm Week

     April 28,30  MCA Test – Grade 8

 

May

May 4-8       MCA Science Test

May 12         Orchestra Concert 7:30 p.m.

May 14         Band Concert 7:30 p..m. Gym

May 18         Northside Band Concert 6:30 p.m.

May 21         Choir Concert 7:30 p.m. Gym

May 22        Awards Assembly – School Carnival

May 25        Memorial Day – No School

May 26                       Site Council 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

May 28-June 3           Final exams must be scheduled during this time; no

                                  activities, field trips, concerts, etc. may be scheduled

 

June

June 4         Last day of school

June 5         Teacher in-service/workshop (or make up day if a snow day is used)

 

 

Midterms and Parent/Teacher Conferences

We will hand out midterms during parent/teacher conferences on Mar. 3^rd (4:30-7:30 p.m).  We will mail home midterms if parents are unable to make the conferences.

 

We just completed North’s spring play this weekend.  The students did a wonderful job and it was a great production.  We will be showing the play to team 4 and team 1 this week.  The other teams saw our fall play.

 

Phones and Ipods

We have had a lot of issues with students bringing and using their cell phones and Ipods at school.  We would prefer that students not bring these devices to school but have not banned them at this time. 

 

Students are using their cell phones to call and text during the school day and in classes.  Cell phones are ringing and causing disruptions.  The way we have dealt with cell phones is simply to tell students to turn off their phones when they get to school, put the phones in their lockers or pockets and do not take them out or use them until school gets out at 3:10.  If a student uses their phone during the day, the phone rings, or the student takes out their phone during the day….the phone is taken from the student and brought to the office.  If the phone is taken a second time parents will need to come to school to get the phone.  If a student needs to have a phone at school, please tell your student to shut the phone off when they get to school and not take it out until the end of the school day. 

 

The problem with Ipods is that students want to use them during classes and this becomes a disruption.  Ipods also get stolen and we spend a lot of time trying to track down who took the Ipod.  These are expensive devices to lose and students simply do not need them at school.  The school is not responsible for these devices if they get stolen.  We would appreciate any help you can give use regarding these devices.

 

 

Here is a message from Superintendent Jordahl that invites you to a meeting concerning options for reductions in the school district’s budget.

 

Community Members,

 

It's time to create a budget for the next two years. The district's administration has created options for reductions from $1 Million to several million dollars in the first year alone. But now we want to engage the community in this process.

 

Please come to our community feedback session at Apollo on March 3rd at 6 PM in the Media Center. You will still have the option for providing feedback by going to our district's website http://742info.org/survey/0910budget.htm from now to March 3rd.

 

More information about this process can be obtained by viewing the power point presentation found at http://isd742.org/ We really appreciate your input; so, please come and join us for this meeting (I'LL MAKE SURE THERE'S COFFEE AND COOKIES).

 

Take care and stay warm,

 

Steve

 

www.sjordahl.blogspot.com - CHECK OUT THIS SITE!

 

Dr. Steve Jordahl, Superintendent

District Administration Office

1000 44th Avenue North, Suite 100

St. Cloud, MN 56303-2037

 

 

Here is a message from the All City Marching Band

 

Attend an Informational Meeting:

Thursday, March 5, Apollo High School, 7:00 p.m.

Monday, March 16, Tech High School, 7:00 p.m.

Learn more at [http://www.stcloudallcity.org] www.stcloudallcity.org or call 320-255-9836.

HIT THE STREETS THIS SUMMER!

The pride of Granite City, the award-winning [http://www.stcloudallcity.org] St. Cloud All-City Marching Band will again perform for thousands of adoring fans this summer. Comprised of students grades 7-12 from St. Cloud and neighboring communities that do not offer a marching opportunity, the band typically participates in about 12 parades

in and around Central Minnesota.

JOIN THE FUN!

[http://www.stcloudallcity.org] St. Cloud All-City Marching Band is now accepting 2008 summer members for band proper, drumline, color guard and honor guard. See the recruitment video on our [stcloudallcity.org] Website.

 

YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES!

 

- Students must be between the grades of 7 & 12.

- No experience needed! No tryouts. We’ll teach you all you need to know.

- Students should have a passion to be the best, thrive on working as a team and be willing to have fun!

- It’s affordable! With many fundraising opportunities most students pay very little out-of-pocket. SUMMER TOUR 2009: COLORADO

Each year the band embarks on an exciting trip! This year, we’re heading to the mountains of Colorado! Tour stops include the Rooftop Rodeo Parade in Estes Park, white-water rafting, 6-Flags amusement park, a Colorado Rockies game and a trip to the Royal Gorge Park and the world’s highest suspension bridge.

 

 

Please let me know if there are items you would like me to cover in the next blog. 

Bob Huot

Principal, North Junior High

Robert.huot@isd742.org

 

 

You will find listed below a number of workshops you may find interesting.  Our school calendar of events is found at the very end of the blog.

 

 

What happens when parents hear the words "with autism" describing their child?  On March 16th, Resource Training & Solutions will host a unique parent workshop that will give you a first hand look into the life of a family who has struggled and succeeded.  Debra, along with her young adult son David, who has autism, will talk about understanding autism, adaptations, support, success in school, and building self esteem. They will include talking to your child about autism and will allow time at the end of their presentation for questions.

 

Title:                Autism: One Family's Story

Presenters:     Debra and David Niedfeldt

Date:               March 16, 2009

Time:               7:00-9:00 pm

Location:         Resource Training and Solutions

                        West side Bremer Bank Building, Suite 550

                        4150 2nd St. South, St. Cloud, MN 56301

Fee:                 $15.00/person, $25/two people, Refreshments served

Code               7752

 

Who should attend:  Parents, grandparents, foster parents, child care providers, preschool staff, coaches, counselors, and others who have a concern for children.

 

Presenters:    

David Niedfeldt, son

David is 20 years old and is diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome.  He graduated from high school in 2007 and is in his 2nd year at Rochester Community College.  David is a strong self advocate and enjoys sharing and speaking to groups.

 

Deb Niedfeldt, mom

When David was born, Deb's work interest changed to the area of people with disabilities.  She has worked with Arc Southeastern Minnesota as a family support project coordinator for 10 years.  Currently Deb works with Region 10 Quality Assurance which does licensing for homes and workplaces for people with disabilities.

 

To register or for more information: Go online at

www.resourcetraining.com <http://www.resourcetraining.com/>  or call

Martha at Resource Training & Solutions at 255-3236 or 888-447-7032.

 

 

 

 “On Target”

We will also be doing “On Target” on the following Saturdays:

Mar 7, 28

April 18

May 2, 9

 

 

North Junior High School

Important Dates

2008-09

(A month by month calendar with all events may be found on North’s Web Page (www.isd742.org/~north/)

First Quarter : September 2 - November 6

COMPLETED

 

Second Quarter : November 10 - January 23

COMPLETED

 

 

Third Quarter : January 27 – April 3

 

March 

     Mar. 3         Parent/teacher conferences (4:30-7:30 p.m.)

Mar. 9-13     Mid-Winter Break – No School

Mar. 16        Required faculty meeting

Mar. 23-27  Middle School Week

Mar. 23       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m.  Lower Media

Mar. 25       This will now be a full day of school for students

Mar. 25       Activity Day

Mar. 26       Diversity Night

Fourth Quarter : April 6 – June 3

 

April               

April 3         END OF 3^RD QUARTER

April ?         8^th graders visit Apollo

April 20-May 1     Flexible Parent/Teacher Conferences

April 21,23  MCA Test – Grade 7

April 27       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

April 27-30 Midterm Week

     April 28,30  MCA Test – Grade 8

 

May

May 4-8       MCA Science Test

May 12         Orchestra Concert 7:30 p.m.

May 14         Band Concert 7:30 p..m. Gym

May 18         Northside Band Concert 6:30 p.m.

May 21         Choir Concert 7:30 p.m. Gym

May 22        Awards Assembly – School Carnival

May 25        Memorial Day – No School

May 26                       Site Council 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

May 28-June 3           Final exams must be scheduled during this time; no

                                  activities, field trips, concerts, etc. may be scheduled

 

June

June 4         Last day of school

June 5         Teacher in-service/workshop (or make up day if a snow day is used)

 

 

February 23, 2009

Well, last week was a very busy week.  At this time of the year it seems I am so far behind I think I am ahead. We are continuing to register students for classes for the 2009-10 school year.  We have 37 students from Discovery/Westwood that will join our 6^th grade students from Madison next year.  We are excited to have our 6^th grade students with us next year.

We have a “Spirit of North” parent meeting tonight (February 23).  As usual, we would love to have more parents attend the meeting.  The meeting starts at 6:45 p.m.  at North in the conference room across from the office.  One of the items I will be discussing tonight is the possible district budget cuts for next year.  I will also be talking about programming that we will be looking at for students.

We have our spring play this weekend.  The play is the 'Pirates of Penzance'.  The play will run Thursday through Sunday.  I am an old wrestling coach and it is exciting to know that the Apollo wrestling team will be going to the state tournament for the first time in its history.  We have a number of North students who are on this team.

Midterms and Parent/Teacher Conferences

This is midterm week.  Teachers will be putting midterms together concerning how students are progressing this quarter.  We will hand out the midterms during parent/teacher conferences on Mar. 3^rd (4:30-7:30 p.m.)  We will mail home midterms if parents are unable to make the conferences.

Please let me know if there are items you would like me to cover in the next blog. 

Bob Huot

Principal, North Junior High

Robert.huot@isd742.org

 

You will find listed below a number of workshops you may find interesting.  Our school calendar of events is found at the very end of the blog.

"All Families Communicate But What Are They Saying?"

All families communicate; sometimes verbally, sometimes without talking.  Resource Training & Solutions will host a family education workshop on February 23rd entitled "All Families Communicate But What Are They Saying?" Spend the evening discovering your family's communication style and its strengths and weaknesses.  Also understand how communication changes as your child gets older and how to adapt your style for maximum benefit to the whole family.

Title:        All Families Communicate But What are They Saying?

Presenter:    Linda Budd, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Date:         Monday, February 23, 2009

Time:         7:00-9:00 p.m.

Location:     Resource Training and Solutions

              West side Bremer Bank Building, Suite 550

              4150 2nd St. South, St. Cloud, MN 5630

Fee:            $15.00/person  $25 for two

                Refreshments served

Code            7751

Who should attend:  Parents, grandparents, foster parents, child care providers, preschool staff, coaches, counselors and others who have a concern for interacting with children.

Presenter: Linda Budd is a licensed marriage and family      therapist, psychologist and play therapist.  She is the author of "Living with the Active Alert Child".  She is also an adjunct professor in Family Social Science at the University of Minnesota.

                

To register or for more information go to www.resourcetraining.com Or call me at Resource Training & Solutions at 255-3236 or 888-447-7032.

Thanks!

Martha Roth

Resource Training & Solutions

St. Cloud Hospital holds inaugural Spirit of Women Day of Dance event

St. Cloud, Minn. - St. Cloud Hospital will host its inaugural Spirit ofWomen Day of Dance event Thursday, Feb. 26 at the Holiday Inn & Suites, 37 Ave. & Division St., St. Cloud. Free gift bags and a chance to win a $100 cash prize will be available to the first 500 participants. The whole family is welcome to attend. Everyone is encouraged to wear red shoes if you have them.

From 4:30-7 p.m., you will learn simple steps for salsa, tap, belly and a variety of other dances. This portion of the event is free and includes free heart healthy food samples, screenings, information and music.

Dance schedule:

          4:30-5 p.m. Hokey Pokey, St. Cloud School of Dance

          5-5:30 p.m. Tap dancing, St. Cloud School of Dance 

          5:30-6 p.m.  Electric slide, Chuck Stenger       

          6-6:30 p.m.  Belly dancing, Jenny Kroska        

          6:30-7 p.m. Salsa dancing, Gustavo Pena-Velasco, D.D.S.

Screenings include:

*        Blood pressure

*        Height and weight

*        Body mass index

From 7-8:30 p.m., coach and author Jenny Hatfield will present "Get Up, Get Out and Get Going: the Secrets to an Active Lifestyle," sharing her secrets for learning to love activity, losing weight without sacrifice and tapping into your inner athlete. The $10 tickets for this part of the evening are on sale now at the St. Cloud Hospital Gift Gallery, Byerly's service desk, Cash Wise Video Department and Coborn's Superstore Sauk Rapids service counter.

The event is sponsored by the St. Cloud Hospital Women & Children's Center and Central Minnesota Heart Center. Food/beverage sponsors include Coborn's Natural Foods, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, Pacific Wok Teriyaki Grill, Shortstop Custom Catering, The Salad Bowl, Food Ecstasy Diner & Catering Services and Viking Coca Cola Bottling Co.

Spirit of Women(r)

St. Cloud Hospital is now a member of Spirit of Women(r), an elite coalition of American hospitals and health care providers that ascribe to high standards of excellence in women's health, education and community outreach. By using innovative and extraordinary events and creative communication, Spirit of Women hospitals motivate women and their families to take action for their health. St. Cloud Hospital will participate in a wide variety of exciting Spirit of Women programming, including Day of Dance. To learn more about Spirit of Women go to www.spiritofwomen.com.

For more information about Day of Dance, call (320) 229-5139 or visit

www.centracare.com.

 “On Target”

We will also be doing “On Target” on the following Saturdays:

Feb 7, 21

Mar 7, 28

April 18

May 2, 9

 

 

North Junior High School

Important Dates

2008-09

(A month by month calendar with all events may be found on North’s Web Page (www.isd742.org/~north/)

First Quarter : September 2 - November 6

COMPLETED

Second Quarter : November 10 - January 23

Third Quarter : January 27 – April 3

COMPLETED

February

     Feb. ?          Northside Orchestra Concert 7:00 p.m.

Feb. 10        This will now be a full day of school for students

Feb. 12        Band Concert 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 16        Presidents’ Day – No School

Feb. 23        Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

Feb. 23-27  Midterm Week

March 

     Mar. 3         Parent/teacher conferences (4:30-7:30 p.m.)

Mar. 9-13     Mid-Winter Break – No School

Mar. 16        Required faculty meeting

Mar. 23-27  Middle School Week

Mar. 23       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m.  Lower Media

Mar. 25       This will now be a full day of school for students

Mar. 25       Activity Day

Mar. 26       Diversity Night

Fourth Quarter : April 6 – June 3

April               

April 3         END OF 3^RD QUARTER

April ?         8^th graders visit Apollo

April 20-May 1     Flexible Parent/Teacher Conferences

April 21,23  MCA Test – Grade 7

April 27       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

April 27-30 Midterm Week

     April 28,30  MCA Test – Grade 8

May

May 4-8       MCA Science Test

May 12         Orchestra Concert 7:30 p.m.

May 14         Band Concert 7:30 p..m. Gym

May 18         Northside Band Concert 6:30 p.m.

May 21         Choir Concert 7:30 p.m. Gym

May 22        Awards Assembly – School Carnival

May 25        Memorial Day – No School

May 26                       Site Council 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

May 28-June 3           Final exams must be scheduled during this time; no

                                  activities, field trips, concerts, etc. may be scheduled

June

June 4         Last day of school

June 5         Teacher in-service/workshop (or make up day if a snow day is used)

 

February 9, 2009

You should have now received your student’s report card. The information we sent home may have included additional information concerning your student. Eighth grade students will have information concerning the Explore test she/he has taken.  Please take time to discuss your student’s report card with her/him.  We have completed half of the school year and you need to be aware that North does not automatically advance students to the next grade.  Students must pass three out of their four core classes (math, science, language arts and science) in order to move to the next grade without going to summer school.  Just because a student has passed the first semester of a class does not insure the student will pass the class for the year.  Please discuss this with your student to encourage her/him to work hard to pass her/his remaining classes.

 

We are starting to register students for classes for the 2009-10 school year.  We have been able to offer additional classes to students who need help in reading and/or math.  One of the things we use to determine what classes a student will be registered in is his/her test scores.  We use both the MCA (Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments) and MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) test scores to help place students in their classes (both for additional help or North’s rigorous Honor classes).  Thus, it is extremely important students do their best on the tests they take as we go into the last half of the school year.  Students will be placed into classes that will provide them with the additional help they need.  Students will remain in the classes until they illustrate they no longer need additional help.

 

Please contact your student’s counselor if you have any questions about information that has been enclosed in your envelope.

 

 

Weather-Related School Closings/Make-Up Days

 

June 4th - Make-up day for staff and students as incorporated in the 2008-2009 school calendar.  Last day for students.

 

June 5th - Staff development day.

 

February 10th & March 25th  - Full instructional days (no two-hour late starts or early dismissals).

 

School Dance

We re-scheduled the school dance on February 2^nd.  I must tell you that the behavior of the students was simply outstanding.  The dance went extremely well and the students all seemed to enjoy themselves.

 

LEAF

NIGHT OF THE STARS VARIETY SHOW

The Local Education Activities Foundation (LEAF), is pleased to announce their 8^th annual “Night of the Stars” benefit for student activies.  It’s an All-Star Variety Show staged at the St. Cloud Historic Paramount Theatre on Friday, February 13 and Saturday, February 14.  Tickets will go fast, so order your tickets now.  Tickets are on sale at North and 100% of all Advance Ticket Sales go directly to North.

Adult Tickets - $15.00

Student Tickets - $6.00

 

Please let me know if there are items you would like me to cover in the next blog. 

Bob Huot

Principal, North Junior High

Robert.huot@isd742.org

 

 

You will find listed below a number of workshops you may find interesting.  Our school calendar of events is found at the very end of the blog.

 

St. Cloud Hospital holds inaugural Spirit of Women Day of Dance event

 

St. Cloud, Minn. - St. Cloud Hospital will host its inaugural Spirit ofWomen Day of Dance event Thursday, Feb. 26 at the Holiday Inn & Suites, 37 Ave. & Division St., St. Cloud. Free gift bags and a chance to win a $100 cash prize will be available to the first 500 participants. The whole family is welcome to attend. Everyone is encouraged to wear red shoes if you have them.

 

From 4:30-7 p.m., you will learn simple steps for salsa, tap, belly and a variety of other dances. This portion of the event is free and includes free heart healthy food samples, screenings, information and music.

 

Dance schedule:

          4:30-5 p.m. Hokey Pokey, St. Cloud School of Dance

          5-5:30 p.m. Tap dancing, St. Cloud School of Dance 

          5:30-6 p.m.  Electric slide, Chuck Stenger       

          6-6:30 p.m.  Belly dancing, Jenny Kroska        

          6:30-7 p.m. Salsa dancing, Gustavo Pena-Velasco, D.D.S.

Screenings include:

*        Blood pressure

*        Height and weight

*        Body mass index

 

From 7-8:30 p.m., coach and author Jenny Hatfield will present "Get Up, Get Out and Get Going: the Secrets to an Active Lifestyle," sharing her secrets for learning to love activity, losing weight without sacrifice and tapping into your inner athlete. The $10 tickets for this part of the evening are on sale now at the St. Cloud Hospital Gift Gallery, Byerly's service desk, Cash Wise Video Department and Coborn's Superstore Sauk Rapids service counter.

 

The event is sponsored by the St. Cloud Hospital Women & Children's Center and Central Minnesota Heart Center. Food/beverage sponsors include Coborn's Natural Foods, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, Pacific Wok Teriyaki Grill, Shortstop Custom Catering, The Salad Bowl, Food Ecstasy Diner & Catering Services and Viking Coca Cola Bottling Co.

 

Spirit of Women(r)

St. Cloud Hospital is now a member of Spirit of Women(r), an elite coalition of American hospitals and health care providers that ascribe to high standards of excellence in women's health, education and community outreach. By using innovative and extraordinary events and creative communication, Spirit of Women hospitals motivate women and their families to take action for their health. St. Cloud Hospital will participate in a wide variety of exciting Spirit of Women programming, including Day of Dance. To learn more about Spirit of Women go to www.spiritofwomen.com.

 

For more information about Day of Dance, call (320) 229-5139 or visit

www.centracare.com.

  

 

Title:               Adults with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

 

What does "success" as an adult look like?  Adapting to changes, daily organization, keeping cool in an emotional state...these are expectations for adults.  Those who have ADHD may think they have been thrown a curve ball!  On February 10, Resource Training & Solutions will host a workshop entitled, "Adults with ADHD" (Attention Deficit Hyperactively Disorder).  At this workshop participants will learn about diagnosis of ADHD in an adult and medication choices.  Strategies to use for anger management, time management and organization will be addressed as well as workplace issues, including accommodations.

 

Title:               Adults with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity

Disorder)

Date:               Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Time:               7:00-9:00 p.m.

Location:         Resource Training and Solutions

                      West side Bremer Bank Building, Suite 550

                      4150 2nd St. South, St. Cloud, MN 56301

Fee:                 $15.00/person  $25 for two Refreshments served

Presenter:       John Schmitz, PhD

Code               7749

 

Who should attend:  Human Resource personnel, managers, directors, owners, staff, workers, couples or anyone who has a concern for adults with ADHD

 

Speaker:   Dr. Schmitz has been on staff at St. Cloud Hospital since 1999.  As Medical Director of Adult Psychiatric Services, he supervises and provides psychiatric care for inpatient mental health, consultation outpatient behavioral health and more.  He also provides evaluation and management of attention deficit disorder.

 

To register, go to http://www.resourcetraining.com/PEworkshops.aspx

Or call 888-447-7032 or 255-3236 in the St. Cloud area.

Martha Roth

Resource Training & Solutions

 

 

 “On Target”

We will also be doing “On Target” on the following Saturdays:

Feb 7, 21

Mar 7, 28

April 18

May 2, 9

 

 

North Junior High School

Important Dates

2008-09

(A month by month calendar with all events may be found on North’s Web Page (www.isd742.org/~north/)

First Quarter : September 2 - November 6

COMPLETED

 

Second Quarter : November 10 - January 23

Third Quarter : January 27 – April 3

COMPLETED

 

 

February

     Feb. ?          Northside Orchestra Concert 7:00 p.m.

Feb. 10        This will now be a full day of school for students

Feb. 12        Band Concert 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 16        Presidents’ Day – No School

Feb. 23        Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

Feb. 23-27  Midterm Week

 

March 

     Mar. 3         Parent/teacher conferences (4:30-7:30 p.m.)

Mar. 9-13     Mid-Winter Break – No School

Mar. 16        Required faculty meeting

Mar. 23-27  Middle School Week

Mar. 23       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m.  Lower Media

Mar. 25       This will now be a full day of school for students

Mar. 25       Activity Day

Mar. 26       Diversity Night

Fourth Quarter : April 6 – June 3

 

April               

April 3         END OF 3^RD QUARTER

April ?         8^th graders visit Apollo

April 20-May 1     Flexible Parent/Teacher Conferences

April 21,23  MCA Test – Grade 7

April 27       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

April 27-30 Midterm Week

     April 28,30  MCA Test – Grade 8

 

May

May 4-8       MCA Science Test

May 12         Orchestra Concert 7:30 p.m.

May 14         Band Concert 7:30 p..m. Gym

May 18         Northside Band Concert 6:30 p.m.

May 21         Choir Concert 7:30 p.m. Gym

May 22        Awards Assembly – School Carnival

May 25        Memorial Day – No School

May 26                       Site Council 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

May 28-June 3           Final exams must be scheduled during this time; no

                                  activities, field trips, concerts, etc. may be scheduled

 

June

June 4         Last day of school

June 5         Teacher in-service/workshop (or make up day if a snow day is used)

 

 

February 2, 2009

It has been two weeks since my last “blog”.  I do apologize for not getting this out each week.  I try to write my “blog” weekly but it just did not work out the way I wanted it to.  I was sick last weekend and have simply been trying to catch up.

We have now completed the first semester.  You should be getting your student’s report card (and other information) in the mail by mid week.  It is now February and the year is flying by.

 

Weather-Related School Closings/Make-Up Days

 

June 4th - Make-up day for staff and students as incorporated in the 2008-2009 school calendar.  Last day for students.

 

June 5th - Staff development day.

 

February 10th & March 25th  - Full instructional days (no two-hour late starts or early dismissals).

 

 

6th Grade Students

All Madison 6^th grade students will be at North next year.  There is a possibility that some Discovery and Westwood students may also attend North.  Discovery and Westwood students have been given the option to attend North next year.  This is a completely optional program.  Parents/Guardians of Discovery and Westwood parents have until February 9^th to let North know if they are interested in their student attending North for 6^th grade.  There will be a minimum number of students needed to have the program and there may be a maximum number of students allowed into the program.  Students will be enrolled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

 

 

We had registration for 6^th grade going to 7^th grade on January 26^th.  We also had parents of Madison 5^th graders going to 6^th grade next year attend the meeting.  I do know that we need to re-evaluate how we will be doing our registrations in the future.  We had some confusion concerning who needed to attend and who did not need to attend.  This will be adjusted for our next registration and the confusion will not happen again.  Please contact either Mr. Shelstad (for any student going into either 6^th or 7^th grade and will be attending North during the 2009-10 school year) or Ms. Hugo (for any student going into 8^th grade) for any questions you may have.  We will also be calling parents if they have not confirmed that their student will attend North next year.  We ask parents confirm their contact information and ask what music the student will be in and (for 8^th graders) what exploratory classes their student would like (full year Spanish, or full year technology, or a half year of both Global Communications and technology.

 

STUDY ISLAND 

Please refer to my last “blog” for excellent information concerning this great resource for students and parents to help target skills in math, reading, and science!   Since Study Island is a web-based program, it's ideal for both home and school practice - and is a great way to get involved with your student's education.

 

New Student Information System

We are in the process of evaluating a number of information systems.  The current system (SASI) will not longer be supported and needs to be replaced.  All the new systems we are evaluating look very good.  One of the bright spots is that all the systems have a much better parent portal that parents would be able to access for their student’s information.  This would include student grades.

 

School Dance

The school dance that was cancelled due to bad weather will be today.  Students must stay at the dance unless parents come in to get them.

 

 

Please let me know if there are items you would like me to cover in the next blog. 

Bob Huot

Principal, North Junior High

Robert.huot@isd742.org

 

 

You will find listed below a number of workshops you may find interesting.  Our school calendar of events is found at the very end of the blog.

 

 

Title:               Becoming a Love and Logic Parent 

Presenter:       Peggy Imholte

Date:               Saturday, February 7, 2009

 

There is no more difficult, detailed and time-consuming job than raising children.  Yet children come with no instruction manuals!  The class "Becoming a Love and Logic Parent" can be that manual in the areas of respectful communication and discipline.  Attend this day long workshop to not only learn new techniques, but also be able to discuss it with parents of similar aged children. 

 

At this session learn simple, low stress communication techniques that are effective with children from toddlers to teens. 

*        Avoid power struggles. 

*        Guide your children to solve their own problems. 

*        Model and teach responsibility.

*        Raise your children without raising the roof!

 

Who should attend: Parents, grandparents, foster parents, child care providers, preschool staff, coaches, counselors and others who have a concern for interacting with children.

 

Speaker:  Peggy Imholte has taught hundreds of parents, school staff and others interacting with youth a variety of essential behavior management techniques.  Peg's drive and her passion for youth success and parent excellence will inspire you, challenge you - and remain with you long after her sessions end! 

 

 Title:               Becoming a Love and Logic Parent 

Presenter:       Peggy Imholte

Date:               Saturday, February 7, 2009

Time:               9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (registration 8:30 a.m.)

Fee:                 $45.00/person  in advance        $50/person at the door

                        $65.00/couple in advance         $75/couple at the door 

                        Snacks at breaks served

                        Bring a sack lunch and beverages and dessert will be provided

Location:         Resource Training and Solutions

                        Westside Bremer Bank Building, Suite 550

                        4150 2nd St. South, St. Cloud

Code:              7753

 

To register call me at 255-3236 or 888-447-7032 or register online at

www.resourcetraining.com <http://www.resourcetraining.com/> .

 

 

 

Title:               Transforming the Angry Child

Date:               Tuesday, January 20, 2009

 

Arguments, tantrums, time outs, bad language, trouble at school, problems with peers, refusal to cooperate, challenging transitions... Ever wonder why typical parenting techniques are ineffective with children who have a great deal of anger?   On January 20, Resource Training & Solutions will host a parent class called, "Transforming the Angry Child."  Come to this workshop to learn ways to bring about real change with proven, positive, esteem-building techniques.  The approach you will learn applies to all children, ages 2-18, or any child whose anger is interfering with a peaceful home life.

 

 Title:               Transforming the Angry Child

Date:               Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Time:               7:00-9:00 pm

Fee:                 $15/person; $25/two people

Location:         Resource Training and Solutions

                      Westside Bremer Bank Building, Suite 550

                      4150 2nd St. South, St. Cloud

Presenter:       Tina Feigal

Code:               7756

 

Speaker: Tina Feigal, M.S., Ed dedicates her life to putting healing in the hands of adults who love challenging children.  She is the resident parenting expert for the Minneapolis/St. Paul NBC affiliate KARE 11. She is the founder of the Center for the Challenging Child, LLC, where she assists from around the world.

 

To register or for more information go to:

www.resourcetraining.com <http://www.resourcetraining.com/>

Or call me at Resource Training & Solutions at 255-3236 or 888-447-7032.

 

 

 

St. Cloud Hospital holds inaugural Spirit of Women Day of Dance event

 

St. Cloud, Minn. - St. Cloud Hospital will host its inaugural Spirit ofWomen Day of Dance event Thursday, Feb. 26 at the Holiday Inn & Suites, 37 Ave. & Division St., St. Cloud. Free gift bags and a chance to win a $100 cash prize will be available to the first 500 participants. The whole family is welcome to attend. Everyone is encouraged to wear red shoes if you have them.

 

From 4:30-7 p.m., you will learn simple steps for salsa, tap, belly and a variety of other dances. This portion of the event is free and includes free heart healthy food samples, screenings, information and music.

 

Dance schedule:

          4:30-5 p.m. Hokey Pokey, St. Cloud School of Dance

          5-5:30 p.m. Tap dancing, St. Cloud School of Dance 

          5:30-6 p.m.  Electric slide, Chuck Stenger       

          6-6:30 p.m.  Belly dancing, Jenny Kroska        

          6:30-7 p.m. Salsa dancing, Gustavo Pena-Velasco, D.D.S.

Screenings include:

*        Blood pressure

*        Height and weight

*        Body mass index

 

From 7-8:30 p.m., coach and author Jenny Hatfield will present "Get Up, Get Out and Get Going: the Secrets to an Active Lifestyle," sharing her secrets for learning to love activity, losing weight without sacrifice and tapping into your inner athlete. The $10 tickets for this part of the evening are on sale now at the St. Cloud Hospital Gift Gallery, Byerly's service desk, Cash Wise Video Department and Coborn's Superstore Sauk Rapids service counter.

 

The event is sponsored by the St. Cloud Hospital Women & Children's Center and Central Minnesota Heart Center. Food/beverage sponsors include Coborn's Natural Foods, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, Pacific Wok Teriyaki Grill, Shortstop Custom Catering, The Salad Bowl, Food Ecstasy Diner & Catering Services and Viking Coca Cola Bottling Co.

 

Spirit of Women(r)

St. Cloud Hospital is now a member of Spirit of Women(r), an elite coalition of American hospitals and health care providers that ascribe to high standards of excellence in women's health, education and community outreach. By using innovative and extraordinary events and creative communication, Spirit of Women hospitals motivate women and their families to take action for their health. St. Cloud Hospital will participate in a wide variety of exciting Spirit of Women programming, including Day of Dance. To learn more about Spirit of Women go to www.spiritofwomen.com.

 

For more information about Day of Dance, call (320) 229-5139 or visit

www.centracare.com.

 

 

 

 

Title:               Adults with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

 

What does "success" as an adult look like?  Adapting to changes, daily organization, keeping cool in an emotional state...these are expectations for adults.  Those who have ADHD may think they have been thrown a curve ball!  On February 10, Resource Training & Solutions will host a workshop entitled, "Adults with ADHD" (Attention Deficit Hyperactively Disorder).  At this workshop participants will learn about diagnosis of ADHD in an adult and medication choices.  Strategies to use for anger management, time management and organization will be addressed as well as workplace issues, including accommodations.

 

 

 

Title:               Adults with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity

Disorder)

Date:               Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Time:               7:00-9:00 p.m.

Location:         Resource Training and Solutions

                      West side Bremer Bank Building, Suite 550

                      4150 2nd St. South, St. Cloud, MN 56301

Fee:                 $15.00/person  $25 for two Refreshments served

Presenter:       John Schmitz, PhD

Code               7749

 

Who should attend:  Human Resource personnel, managers, directors, owners, staff, workers, couples or anyone who has a concern for adults with ADHD

 

Speaker:   Dr. Schmitz has been on staff at St. Cloud Hospital since 1999.  As Medical Director of Adult Psychiatric Services, he supervises and provides psychiatric care for inpatient mental health, consultation outpatient behavioral health and more.  He also provides evaluation and management of attention deficit disorder.

 

To register, go to http://www.resourcetraining.com/PEworkshops.aspx

Or call 888-447-7032 or 255-3236 in the St. Cloud area.

Martha Roth

Resource Training & Solutions

 

 “On Target”

We will also be doing “On Target” on the following Saturdays:

Feb 7, 21

Mar 7, 28

April 18

May 2, 9

 

 

North Junior High School

Important Dates

2008-09

(A month by month calendar with all events may be found on North’s Web Page (www.isd742.org/~north/)

First Quarter : September 2 - November 6

COMPLETED

 

Second Quarter : November 10 - January 23

Third Quarter : January 27 – April 3

COMPLETED

 

 

February

     Feb. ?          Northside Orchestra Concert 7:00 p.m.

Feb. 10        This will now be a full day of school for students

Feb. 12        Band Concert 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 16        Presidents’ Day – No School

Feb. 23        Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

Feb. 23-27  Midterm Week

 

March 

     Mar. 3         Parent/teacher conferences (4:30-7:30 p.m.)

Mar. 9-13     Mid-Winter Break – No School

Mar. 16        Required faculty meeting

Mar. 23-27  Middle School Week

Mar. 23       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m.  Lower Media

Mar. 25       This will now be a full day of school for students

Mar. 25       Activity Day

Mar. 26       Diversity Night

Fourth Quarter : April 6 – June 3

 

April               

April 3         END OF 3^RD QUARTER

April ?         8^th graders visit Apollo

April 20-May 1     Flexible Parent/Teacher Conferences

April 21,23  MCA Test – Grade 7

April 27       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

April 27-30 Midterm Week

     April 28,30  MCA Test – Grade 8

 

May

May 4-8       MCA Science Test

May 12         Orchestra Concert 7:30 p.m.

May 14         Band Concert 7:30 p..m. Gym

May 18         Northside Band Concert 6:30 p.m.

May 21         Choir Concert 7:30 p.m. Gym

May 22        Awards Assembly – School Carnival

May 25        Memorial Day – No School

May 26                       Site Council 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

May 28-June 3           Final exams must be scheduled during this time; no

                                  activities, field trips, concerts, etc. may be scheduled

 

June

June 4         Last day of school

June 5         Teacher in-service/workshop (or make up day if a snow day is used)

 

 

Janury 15, 2009

It is now the second week in January.  The end of the semester is on January 23 and we will be done with half of the school year.  It is very cold today and school has been canceled.  I had a number of phone calls today about the school dance.  Be aware that all North activities are canceled when school is canceled.  We will try to find a date to reschedule the school dance.

  

Registration for in-coming seventh graders for next year is on January 26 from 6:30 to 8:00 at North.

 

 

STUDY ISLAND 

I had Stephanie Peterson put together some information on Study Island that you might find of benefit to your student.

Study Island is a great resource for students and parents to help target skills in math, reading, and science! Since Study Island is a web-based program, it's ideal for both home and school practice - and is a great way to get involved with your student's education.

Quick Basics

1. Study Island is based on Minnesota academic standards - so it coordinates with what your student is currently learning in school.

2. Study Island helps students practice for math, reading, and science (8th only)

3. Students can work at their own pace and target certain areas for improvement.

4. Once passing a topic with a 70% score, students receive a "blue ribbon" for their efforts

5. Students can practice in "game" format or in an actual "test" format

6. The questions are modeled from the Minnesota state assessment test, so practicing on Study Island will help your student be better prepared for the MCA test they will take in April!

Log In Basics

All North students already have an account with Study Island. If your student is not sure what their log in is, it is their student number @742 and regular password for using the school computers. Ex - Log In: 12345@742 and school password.

Once they log in, all students must take the pretest for math and reading. Once the pretest is completed, they are welcome to work on different topics. The pretest only needs to be completed once - some students have used Study Island frequently at school, and have already finished the pretest, while other students may be new and must start with the pretest.

Ideas on how to use Study Island

1. Challenge your student to questions - work the questions together, and encourage your student when you get the same answer correct!

2. Play the games with your student - have your student tell you the answer, and then you attempt to play the game. (And yes - chances are that your student will smoke you in the games!)

3. Set up fun rewards for blue ribbons - a favorite dinner, control of the remote, standing applause, points toward a future video game purchase - they may be small and somewhat silly, but sometimes that works to let your student know that you're excited for them to succeed.

4. Email teachers at school to find out specific areas where your student can improve, and target those areas in the Study Island program.

5. Challenge students for 30 minutes of Study Island time before playing their favorite computer games.

Study Island is a great tool to help your student find some extra practice before gearing up for the state tests in April. It's academically based, but can be deceptively fun! A little practice on a regular basis will go a long way to helping your student achieve success in math and reading - and Study Island is a great way to encourage your student to meet those goals.

Good luck, and happy playing!

Stephanie Peterson

Pre-AP Coordinator

North Junior High and Apollo High School

320.251.2159 ex 4259

stephanie.peterson@isd742.org

Madison Parents

I will be sending a letter home to parents of Madison 5^th grade students.  The letter will inform parents that Madison 6^th grade students will be attending North next year.

 

I have posted two parent workshop below that some of you may find of interest.

 

Please let me know if there are items you would like me to cover in the next blog. 

Bob Huot

Principal, North Junior High

Robert.huot@isd742.org

 

Title:               Becoming a Love and Logic Parent 

Presenter:       Peggy Imholte

Date:               Saturday, February 7, 2009

There is no more difficult, detailed and time-consuming job than raising children.  Yet children come with no instruction manuals!  The class "Becoming a Love and Logic Parent" can be that manual in the areas of respectful communication and discipline.  Attend this day long workshop to not only learn new techniques, but also be able to discuss it with parents of similar aged children. 

At this session learn simple, low stress communication techniques that are effective with children from toddlers to teens. 

*        Avoid power struggles. 

*        Guide your children to solve their own problems. 

*        Model and teach responsibility.

*        Raise your children without raising the roof!

Who should attend: Parents, grandparents, foster parents, child care providers, preschool staff, coaches, counselors and others who have a concern for interacting with children.

Speaker:  Peggy Imholte has taught hundreds of parents, school staff and others interacting with youth a variety of essential behavior management techniques.  Peg's drive and her passion for youth success and parent excellence will inspire you, challenge you - and remain with you long after her sessions end! 

 Title:               Becoming a Love and Logic Parent 

Presenter:       Peggy Imholte

Date:               Saturday, February 7, 2009

Time:               9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (registration 8:30 a.m.)

Fee:                 $45.00/person  in advance        $50/person at the door

                        $65.00/couple in advance         $75/couple at the door 

                        Snacks at breaks served

                        Bring a sack lunch and beverages and dessert will be provided

Location:         Resource Training and Solutions

                        Westside Bremer Bank Building, Suite 550

                        4150 2nd St. South, St. Cloud

Code:              7753

To register call me at 255-3236 or 888-447-7032 or register online at

www.resourcetraining.com <http://www.resourcetraining.com/> .

Title:               Transforming the Angry Child

Date:               Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Arguments, tantrums, time outs, bad language, trouble at school, problems with peers, refusal to cooperate, challenging transitions... Ever wonder why typical parenting techniques are ineffective with children who have a great deal of anger?   On January 20, Resource Training & Solutions will host a parent class called, "Transforming the Angry Child."  Come to this workshop to learn ways to bring about real change with proven, positive, esteem-building techniques.  The approach you will learn applies to all children, ages 2-18, or any child whose anger is interfering with a peaceful home life.

 Title:               Transforming the Angry Child

Date:               Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Time:               7:00-9:00 pm

Fee:                 $15/person; $25/two people

Location:         Resource Training and Solutions

                      Westside Bremer Bank Building, Suite 550

                      4150 2nd St. South, St. Cloud

Presenter:       Tina Feigal

Code:               7756

Speaker: Tina Feigal, M.S., Ed dedicates her life to putting healing in the hands of adults who love challenging children.  She is the resident parenting expert for the Minneapolis/St. Paul NBC affiliate KARE 11. She is the founder of the Center for the Challenging Child, LLC, where she assists from around the world.

To register or for more information go to:

www.resourcetraining.com <http://www.resourcetraining.com/>

Or call me at Resource Training & Solutions at 255-3236 or 888-447-7032.

 

 “On Target”

We will also be doing “On Target” on the following Saturdays:

Dec 6, 20

Jan 17, 24

Feb 7, 21

Mar 7, 28

April 18

May 2, 9

 

 

North Junior High School

Important Dates

2008-09

(A month by month calendar with all events may be found on North’s Web Page (www.isd742.org/~north/)

First Quarter : September 2 - November 6

COMPLETED

Second Quarter : November 10 - January 23

January

Jan. 15         All School Party 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Jan. ?          Elementary music tour

Jan. 19         Martin Luther King Day – No School

Jan. 23        END OF 2^ND QUARTER

Jan. 26        Staff Development Workshop

     Jan. 26        Sixth grade orientation 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Jan. 27        Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m.  Lower Media

Third Quarter : January 27 – April 3

February

     Feb. ?          Northside Orchestra Concert 7:00 p.m.

Feb. 10        Two hour late start

Feb. 12        Band Concert 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 16        Presidents’ Day – No School

Feb. 23        Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

Feb. 23-27  Midterm Week

March 

     Mar. 3         Parent/teacher conferences (4:30-7:30 p.m.)

Mar. 9-13     Mid-Winter Break – No School

Mar. 16        Required faculty meeting

Mar. 23-27  Middle School Week

Mar. 23       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m.  Lower Media

Mar. 25       Two hour early dismissal

Mar. 25       Activity Day

Mar. 26       Diversity Night

Fourth Quarter : April 6 – June 3

April               

April 3         END OF 3^RD QUARTER

April ?         8^th graders visit Apollo

April 20-May 1     Flexible Parent/Teacher Conferences

April 21,23  MCA Test – Grade 7

April 27       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

April 27-30 Midterm Week

     April 28,30  MCA Test – Grade 8

May

May 4-8       MCA Science Test

May 12         Orchestra Concert 7:30 p.m.

May 14         Band Concert 7:30 p..m. Gym

May 18         Northside Band Concert 6:30 p.m.

May 21         Choir Concert 7:30 p.m. Gym

May 22        Awards Assembly – School Carnival

May 25        Memorial Day – No School

May 26                       Site Council 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

May 28-June 3           Final exams must be scheduled during this time; no

                                  activities, field trips, concerts, etc. may be scheduled

June

June 3         Last day of school

June 4         Teacher in-service/workshop (or make up day if a snow day is used)

 

January 5, 2009

I hope your winter break went well and you had time to enjoy your friends and families.

I keep thinking that things will slow down some but they just keep on going faster and faster.

I missed my blog on the last week before the winter break and apologize for not getting one done.  The students were a little more excited and things were pretty busy that week.

December is now gone and we have started the New Year.  Hard to believe but we are now in 2009,  We have many things going on during January in regards to registration for our in-coming seventh grade students for next year.

Registration for in-coming seventh graders for next year is on January 26 from 6:30 to 8:00 at North.  We are sending out information to parents of current 6^th graders this week and next week concerning both registration and Opportunity Days.   We will be sending out the following information to this years 6^th grade parents:

·         A post card to 6^th grade parents reminding them of when the 7^th grade registration is.

·         A registration booklet that has information concerning North’s classes and curriculum.

·         A pamphlet that tells parents about Opportunity Days.  These are days that 6^th grade parents can come to North, get a tour of the building and observe 7^th and 8^th grade teachers in their classrooms.

We are continuing to have discussions about how to set up North next year to better meet the needs of our students.  We continue to have students who struggle in reading and/or math and have other students who are ready for more advanced work.  We need to develop a system that meets the needs of students who are at either end of the continuum.  

Girl’s basketball is now over and the boy’s season starts today.  The Pirates of Penzance is our spring play and they are starting after school practice today.

I am putting together some information on a new program that the district has access to called Study Island.  We believe it can be used as a resource for parents to have their student work on certain curricular areas over the internet at home.  I will post this information on my next blog.  

We will soon be done with ½ the school year.  The end of the first semester is January 23.

Something to think about.

Parents do make a difference at home.  Four things that parents control explain 88% of the difference in student math scores and 91% of the difference in reading scores.  They are:

·         Student attendance at school.

·         The variety of available reading materials in the home.

·         The amount of TV children watch.

·         The amount of time parents read to children.

Ten Tips: Helping Your Child Read Effectively

CHOOSING A BOOK

1. Too Easy. Ask your child to select a book and read. If two or three pages can be read without mistakes, ask the child to find a more difficult book to read.

2. Too Hard. If the child makes three mistakes per page, it may be too difficult and frustrating. Find an easier book for your child to read. HOWEVER, if the story and ideas seem very interesting to him/her, don't worry about the number of words not understood or recognized.

3. Just Right. Ask your child to read silently for several pages, then ask, "Please explain what you have just read," with the book closed. If your child can give you a brief idea of what the story is about, then he/she is reading and understanding the materials. If the child cannot understand or recall the story, then you know he/she has poor reading comprehension.

IMPROVING UNDERSTANDING

4. Reading For Understanding. Children may be able to read the words, but often do not understand what the words mean. Helping them understand the world about them by talking to them about the things they see and use will improve their understanding of words. This may mean using difficult vocabulary and explaining what the words mean.

5. Improve Reading Understanding. Watching television and talking over the plot or talking about advertising, billboards and signs as you are driving down the street are ways of improving your child's reading comprehension. He/she will have a better understanding of what is heard, seen, and sensed.

HELPFUL TIPS

6. Make Reading Useful. Give your child tasks to do that are within his/her reading ability. Examples: reading the road map on trips, ordering from a menu, reading the directions for assembling a model, or reading advertising.

7. Reading To Children. Reading is not meaningful until the child wants to read. The child will want to read when he/she sees other family members acquiring useful information through reading. Reading to a child stimulates seeking more resources for reading.

8. Reading For A Purpose. There needs to be a reason for reading that is child-centered. Reading directions for model cars, airplanes, boats, doll houses, etc., recipes, "how-to" books, or repair manuals needs to go beyond just reading. The child must interpret what is read and then experience the results.

9. Develop Speaking Skills. Speaking in complete sentences to express ideas in a logical order is important too. Helping your child organize spoken ideas also helps him/her learn to read and write. Most children learn to tell others their ideas before they can read.

CAUTION:

10. Don't Go To Extremes. Reading, like speaking, is a tool that should be comfortable to use. It is a method used to transmit information and to transport yourself mentally, using words as images, to other times and places. Make reading fun. Read jokes. Read comedy. Read fiction and non-fiction. Read a variety of materials.  

Please let me know if there are items you would like me to cover in the next blog.  

Bob Huot

Principal, North Junior High

Robert.huot@isd742.org

 “On Target”

We will also be doing “On Target” on the following Saturdays:

Dec 6, 20

Jan 17, 24

Feb 7, 21

Mar 7, 28

April 18

May 2, 9

North Junior High School

Important Dates

2008-09

(A month by month calendar with all events may be found on North’s Web Page (www.isd742.org/~north/)

First Quarter : September 2 - November 6

COMPLETED

Second Quarter : November 10 - January 23

January

Jan. 15         All School Party 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Jan. ?          Elementary music tour

Jan. 19         Martin Luther King Day – No School

Jan. 23        END OF 2^ND QUARTER

Jan. 26        Staff Development Workshop

     Jan. 26        Sixth grade orientation 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Jan. 27        Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m.  Lower Media

Third Quarter : January 27 – April 3

February

     Feb. ?          Northside Orchestra Concert 7:00 p.m.

Feb. 10        Two hour late start

Feb. 12        Band Concert 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 16        Presidents’ Day – No School

Feb. 23        Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

Feb. 23-27  Midterm Week

March  

     Mar. 3         Parent/teacher conferences (4:30-7:30 p.m.)

Mar. 9-13     Mid-Winter Break – No School

Mar. 16        Required faculty meeting

Mar. 23-27  Middle School Week

Mar. 23       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m.  Lower Media

Mar. 25       Two hour early dismissal

Mar. 25       Activity Day

Mar. 26       Diversity Night

Fourth Quarter : April 6 – June 3

April               

April 3         END OF 3^RD QUARTER

April ?         8^th graders visit Apollo

April 20-May 1     Flexible Parent/Teacher Conferences

April 21,23  MCA Test – Grade 7

April 27       Site Council Meeting 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

April 27-30 Midterm Week

     April 28,30  MCA Test – Grade 8

May

May 4-8       MCA Science Test

May 12         Orchestra Concert 7:30 p.m.

May 14         Band Concert 7:30 p..m. Gym

May 18         Northside Band Concert 6:30 p.m.

May 21         Choir Concert 7:30 p.m. Gym

May 22        Awards Assembly – School Carnival

May 25        Memorial Day – No School

May 26                       Site Council 6:45 p.m. Lower Media

May 28-June 3           Final exams must be scheduled during this time; no

                                  activities, field trips, concerts, etc. may be scheduled

June

June 3         Last day of school

June 4         Teacher in-service/workshop (or make up day if a snow day is used)