Today begins the second day of our 2 professional development (PD) days.  Whenever I see PD, I think planning days... definitely did not turn out to be that.  We met in the cafeteria at the same table where the kids have breakfast and lunch.  They were definitely not designed for a middle-aged, 6'4 man to sit comfortably for several hours, so the morning did tend to drag.

Considering what I've heard about the problems at this school, I thought we spent a little bit too much time in "circles" and not enough time on the PBIS which stands for positive behavioral intervention and support.  I definitely understand the circles now - and it sounds like we've got more of that coming this morning. I just wish we could have talked more about the data collection and crunching for use in the PBIS.  Nikki is the admin responsible for the PBIS implementation, and I love her energy and vibe, so I have high hopes of learning more about this program from her, and implementing it effectively amongst the student body.

The afternoon was filled with department and team meetings.  It was great to participate in my first science department meeting.  Once again, the relevance of my New Lit class came into full focus.  Our department meeting was all about increasing depth of knowledge (DOK) in our classrooms - basically moving up the scale in Bloom's to get students thinking more critically and strategically using the knowledge gained from instruction.  I was reminded of the diagnostic assessment we did in New Lit.  That experience prepared me to contribute in this meeting, and I think my contribution, though small, was relevant and valuable.  Thanks Janna!

The team meeting was also enjoyable.  My team members are: Mentor and lead sience teacher: Kris, Math teacher: Ondrea, (yup, with an O), ELA: Pam, Geography/history/civics: David.  I am looking forward to working with all these fine teachers.  I hope over the year that I can earn their respect and trust.  They will make fantastic future contacts if I do... but it's time to focus on the moment, and not on the future.

After the PD time, I met with Kris to go over the first four days.  We went over his ppt slides, and discussed what we need to do to prep for the upcoming classes.  I am really looking forward to this year with him - he is a great instructor, he has a great relationship with the kids, and he makes it all appear effortless, but it is clear the level of work and detail he has done in the background.

Finally, I am growing a bit worried about how I'm going to get everything done this year.  It is a constant nagging in the back of my head...  two grad classes, plus full time/over time in McCormack with the student teaching and the CS apprenticeships.  I hope I can stay afloat without burning out.

Hu Rah!  I'm gonna make it a great year!  (crossing fingers!)