Today was Education Support Professionals (ESPs) day! ESPs include employees in clerical, custodial, child nutrition, health and security services. Thank you to all SFSD Education Support Professionals for keeping our students safe, healthy and ready to learn! We couldn't do what we do without you! #aew2023
Nominations are now OPEN for the 36th annual Dr. John W. Harris Teacher Of The Year Award! Our partnership with Vern Eide Motorcars allows us to highlight the contributions of outstanding educators across SFSD. See flyer for details, and nominate an amazing teacher here! https://www.sf.k12.sd.us/page/teacher-of-the-year-program
Human nature has us "sizing up" our lives, our jobs, our cars with others. Social media dangerously compounds social comparisons and shaming and can lead to mental and physical health challenges. Is your child at risk? Join us Tues, Nov 21 @ 6pm.
The topic of discussion this week on SDPB's "Teacher Talk" is Teacher Residencies (also referred to as "student teaching"). This opportunity can provide future teachers with many meaningful experiences to prepare them for the classroom. Listen here: https://bit.ly/49B7MZ1
Take a tour of R.F. Pettigrew Elementary and learn about the 7 Mindsets social-emotional curriculum they have implemented building-wide thanks to a grant from the Education Foundation! https://youtu.be/A-odj1RPR8g
Happy American Education Week! This week we honor all public school employees for the role they play in creating spaces where students can flourish everyday. Here's to a week of gratitude, celebration, and a collective commitment to shaping a brighter future through education! #aew2023
Planning Ahead! If your current 5th grader is involved in Gifted Education at their SFSD Elementary, join us tonight from 6-7pm at Patrick Henry Middle School to learn more about the Middle School Honors Program!
Ardis Iverson at George McGovern MS is one of 8 teachers in the nation to be awarded a National Book Foundation Fellowship. Find out how she's using the $2000 in books & the $3000 stipend she won to get students excited about reading: https://youtu.be/51K23Gw7hkM
REMINDER. Friday, November 10th 2023 is Veteran's Day and all SFSD schools and offices will be closed in observance of the important day.
Please take time to reflect and thank a special veteran in your life. 🇺🇸
Our newest All Star is another behind-the-scenes, leading-by-example, heart-for-kids-every-day superstar beloved by students, parents and her staff. Memorial's SPED team is exceptional, and that starts at the top. Meet Lindsey Wyatt. https://youtu.be/BEzRAyAEY4c
This week's 🤩🌟💫 SFSD All Star 💫🌟🤩 is......Robert Underberg at Washington High School! His colleague Patti had this to say, "Bob is always going above and beyond to do what's best for the school. You will find him mowing, setting fields up for games, marking fields for activities, fixing things in the building as needed, helping the custodial staff with activity setups, among many other things. His dedication to the school district is beyond amazing. He always does things in the best interest of the building. He is down to earth and a great leader. I am beyond thankful to work for him." Thank you, Robert, for making WHS and SFSD a wonderful place to be!
There's another chance to learn more about the Jefferson HS PBL Academy TONIGHT from 5-6:30 PM. Project Based Learning offers students hands-on opportunities to solve real-world problems in a variety of group settings with wide-ranging peer groups. Scan the QR code for more info!
This week is National School Psychologist Week! School psychologists apply expertise in mental health, learning, and behavior to help students succeed academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally. They provide direct support and interventions to students with the goal of helping them grow in school, at home, and in life. The school psychologist works closely with families, teachers, and other counseling staff to help students feel valued, so they can grow as individuals and contribute to a positive school community. Thank you, school psychologists, for being a vital part of the SFSD community!
Last month, the Middle School Honors Program was featured as a SFSD Program that SHINES! We heard from instructors about the hands-on approach and group learning challenges this program offers students. Let's take a moment to hear from the students about what makes this program so special! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhQb7s07B2s
SFSD's new Canvas platform allows students and families to access school assignments and homework anytime, anywhere. When winter weather can be predicted, students and staff will take devices home to continue their learning. Are you prepared? Check out the guidance BEFORE you need it!
We're highlighting our Instructional Coaching Program today at the teacher job fair at USD. Coaches partner with teachers to build capacity in systems, curriculum and pedagogy for the benefit of student achievement. When we empower our educators, students succeed!
Congratulations to this week's 💫🌟 🤩 SFSD All Star💫🌟🤩 Valerie Anderson at John Harris Elementary! Valerie was nominated by Kersten Dobberpuhl, and she had this to say, "Val is an incredible team member. She handles all the nurse calls and visits. She balances student needs/documentation/teacher needs. You will often find Val running the building as she goes room to room to assist students." Thank you, Val, for making John Harris and SFSD a wonderful place to be!
16 elementary students who attended Robert Frost, Discovery, and Sonia Sotomayor elementary schools auditioned in the spring to attend this fall's SD Music Education Association Elementary Honor Choir that took place on October 28th in Rapid City. Congratulations on your accomplishment! Just one more reason SFSD was named a 2023 Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation!
Be prepared for school delays or cancellations caused by winter weather! This chart is an example of how start times would be impacted if SFSD declares a One-Hour Late Start. Review it now... before winter weather is here to stay!
Saturday's snow has us thinking ahead to winter weather. Is your family prepared for the possibility of Late Starts or Remote Learning Days? This week, we'll highlight everything you need to know to prepare for changes in the school day caused by weather.
