November 14, 2016

Dear TJ Team,
        I am currently reading a book called, Cultures Built to Last, written by Richard Dufour and Michael Fullan, (two additional professional crushes of mine) and I have been reflecting on the work that we are currently doing and TJ and the work we have ahead of us.  How are we building a culture that lasts? How are we engaging in collaborative conversations centered around school culture and improvement?  How are we building on a a great foundation to continue growth?

      After our professional development session, I took time to reflect on what we learned together, our collaboration and the honest feedback about the PBIS work ahead of us.  I heard the concerns about launching a new PBIS program and was struck by how we all need to be "empathically assertive."  We need to be able as a collaborative team where we are empathic, active listeners, eager to engage in dialogue. I reviewed the feedback on the matrix and a found that it was concise, thoughtful and supportive of the work.  I understand the concerns but have made the decision that we will be moving forward with the PBIS relaunch.   I will be completing the matrix week and will be finalizing the lesson plans for the common areas over Thanksgiving break.  The lesson plans will be shared with you prior to our staff meeting in December.  

      I appreciate your dedication and support of the PBIS efforts and am humbled by your empathic assertions on our campus, we are a team that learns and leads together.

Please note the upcoming dates in December.


- Kirsten

A Look A Head

11/14-11-18 - Conference week

11-21-11-25 - Thanksgiving Break

12-7 - Staff Meeting

12-20 - Winter Caroling Concert

12-20 - Awards Assembly

12-21 - Holiday Read Around- More details to come!

Parent Teacher Conferences

Thank you for your work work in preparing for parent teacher conferences.  If you would like me to be present at a conference please let me know.  I also will be stopping into observe conferences throughout the week.

Staff Party

Please complete the survey/form sent out by Danielle about the Staff party date.  I look forward to celebrating the festive season with you all.