MDSD MARCH BOARD BRIEF
MDSD
March 11, 2024
1. Instructional Strategies to Improve Student Outcomes Workshop
A group of MDSD staff had the opportunity to attend the Instructional Strategies to Improve Student Outcomes Workshop in San Diego, California. There were plenty of valuable insights to think about and many useful takeaways to bring back to the classroom. The New Art and Science of Teaching was highlighted, emphasizing its three core categories: feedback, content, and context. It comprises 10 Design Areas, each posing critical questions to be addressed. Furthermore, the handbook delineates 43 elements, aiding in effectively addressing these questions. A fun learning vocabulary activity was given to the board, showing how seeing it, hearing it, creating it, and speaking it helps with recall. A closing pivotal idea discussed was the significant influence of teachers on student achievement, positing them as the most controllable variable in this equation. Furthermore, the concept of self-efficacy, particularly as it relates to inspiring and motivating students (Element 32), was underscored. It was noted that fostering self-efficacy can lead to substantial gains in academic achievement, potentially up to a 29% increase. In closing, one of the attendees stated, “I wish I had this training when I first started teaching.”
2. HRS Report
• Staff Support Data
The instructional coaches have seen an increase in support requests from staff compared to last year.
• February Level 2 PD Day
Despite encountering unforeseen challenges, particularly Marzano Resources being unable to attend at the 11th hour due to a medical issue, the instructional coaches are delighted to report that the February Level 2 Professional Development Day was a resounding success. Their team worked diligently to adapt and ensure a seamless experience for all participants, resulting in positive feedback and valuable learning outcomes. We were able to collaborate between 4 districts to provide professional development to over 220 regional educators!
A huge thank you to Disaster Response for sponsoring lunch from The Intersection, and to the Department of Education for attending and supporting the work!
• Teacher Spotlights!
Rachel Sievers, a 4th/5th-grade educator at BRMES, stands out for her commitment to professional development and collaborative endeavors.
An attendee of the HRS Summit in 2023, Rachel's involvement extends to key committees such as the Leadership Committee, Policy Work Group, and Professional Development Committee.
Known for her collaborative spirit, Rachel actively engages with the 5th-grade team and DES, contributing to Instructional Rounds and undertaking initiatives such as proficiency scale development. By utilizing coaching support, she ensures mastery in areas such as iReady implementation and leveraging AI resources.
Rachel Sievers exemplifies dedication and excellence in the teaching profession.
Introducing Mandy Hathaway, the dedicated ELA educator at PLMS, known for her proactive approach to personal and professional development.
Mandy sets the bar high with her goal-oriented mindset, particularly focusing on Element #24: Increasing Response Rates. Demonstrating her commitment, she displays this objective prominently on her whiteboard as a learning target.
During Instructional Rounds, Mandy's progress towards her goal is highlighted, showcasing her dedication to continuous improvement.
To further her objectives, Mandy collaborates with Coaches, leveraging their expertise in strategies such as Response Chaining/Tracking and Deliberate Practice.
Mandy Hathaway exemplifies a proactive and results-driven approach to teaching and professional growth.
3. Winter iStation & MAP Testing
Winter iStation and MAP testing evaluate student progress in reading and math. Some key points from the report include:
• Comparison between Winter 2023 and Winter 2024 shows strong and continued growth.
• Utilization of cohort data for monitoring growth of specific groups of students.
• Continued achievement above state and national norms.
• Explanation of data being used to drive instruction for staff.
4. Clearwater Financial Update
Our billing for the month amounts to $7,875, bringing our total billing with Clearwater Financial to $23,175.
Furthermore, we are happy to announce that Clearwater Financial will be delivering all necessary materials for our upcoming special meeting scheduled for March 18.
5. Legislative Update
Andy Grover, Executive Director at the Idaho Association of School Administrators, called in to give an update on the following bills that will affect schools:
• House Bill 521 – School Facilities Bill
• House Bill 415 – Firearms on School Property Bill
• House Bill 447 – Tax Credit Voucher Bill
• Senate Bill 1289 – Public Library Bill
For more information, please visit the Idaho Legislature website at www.legislature.idaho.gov.
6. EV School Bus Update
Good news: Infrastructure work is all done and dusted, ready to roll!
We've got some internal training sessions lined up for March 11th and April 3rd for use of the Charging Stations and Software.
On a slight hiccup, IC pushed back delivery dates from Mid-March to Mid/End-April. Looks like we might hit the road in May instead.
7. Policy Updates
Let's give a big round of applause to our policy conversion team! They've been working tirelessly to update more outdated policies into ISBA policy. Your hard work is truly appreciated, and we thank you for your dedication in ensuring our policies stay current. Keep up the great work!
8. Valley County Sheriff’s Office
Sheriff Kevin Copperi thanked the school district for welcoming law enforcement and working collaboratively with all agencies to ensure students are taken care of. MDSD appreciates the collaboration and hard work that our emergency responders put in every day.