Principal's newsletter: 11-17-20
Dear Burr Families,
Many thanks to those of you who took the time to join us for the Parent Principal Coffee Hour last week. The slideshow used for the presentation is linked here. We received some feedback that there was some confusion interpreting some of the data charts presented. So, in the interest of clarity, we have included some bullet points in the notes section listing the takeaways that helped us plan for instruction and intervention.
Please know that there are limitations to our ability to collect reliable data. In ‘normal’ times, we use multiple measures to assess students’ skills. It is difficult for us to control the many variables that impact the results. In some cases, students are assessed remotely, using a new test, or testing is affected by variables such as adult supports that they usually would not receive during an assessment. We share this data with you to give you a window into how we are making our instruction decisions. It is not ideal, but it’s certainly a place for us to start.
Your child’s teacher will share assessment results and goals for your child when you meet for your conference. Parent-Teacher Conferences will be held between December 2 - December 10. The afternoons of December 2, 3, 7, and 10 have been allocated to complete the bulk of them. On Dec 3 and 7, students will be engaged in asynchronous learning during their 2:00 to 3:00 PM cohort meeting time. Live support will be provided by general education and inclusion aides. Most Burr teachers also use early morning slots for conferences. Sign up information will be sent out by individual teachers.
Creative Arts and Sciences Committee presents Women in World Jazz on November 18 for K-2 students and December 2 for 3-5 students. Both performances will start at 9:15 AM, and teachers will include the link for remote access in the weekly learning plans. This concert series is paid for by your contributions to the annual Wolf Fund. Family members are invited to join us to enjoy the performances.
Finally, I wish all of our families who celebrate Diwali last weekend a wealth of happiness, health, and prosperity, and I hope everyone can make the most of their Thanksgiving break during these unusual times.
Best,
Mindy