The summer is setting and it will soon be time to return to
school. The staff at Ellis has been preparing for another productive year over
the summer. Students again achieved at a high level with significant gains in
language and all scores were above the 90th percentile!!
We are looking to the changes which are rapidly impacting
and transforming education. As some of you may know there is a significant
shift in the standards we will meet. Idaho has adopted the Common Core State
Standards, which represents a strong change in English Language Arts and Math.
In these standards there is a strong emphasis on problem solving, critical
thinking, creativity, collaboration and other 21st century skills
students will need to be successful. Research is indicating that knowing about
change strategies, which we have been working on, providing training on
effective teaching strategies (Teachers have taken courses over the summer and
will continue to explore more during the year.) and embedding technology into
the learning process will significantly boost student achievement. We have been
reviewing research on the best possible ways to implement technology, as we are
aware that the use of technology without teacher direction is of little value.
Our teachers are the Key!! As a school, we are poised to move forward.
You are partners in this process. If you want to learn more
about the Common Core State Standards, the PTA website has an excellent
overview for you. http://pta.org/common_core_state_standards.asp
Make sure you once again monitor the posting on Infinite
Campus. If you do not have access you may call the central office before August
13th and starting on the 13th, Mrs. Obray and I will be
in to help you. One important date to be aware of is August 14th.
That is registration day. We look forward to seeing you.
Enjoy the rest of your summer.
