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MARCH UPDATES:
Volunteers Needed for Final Guided Observations for Leaders (GOFL) on May 6th
I'm posting to inform you that West Rapids will host the final round of Guided Observations for Leaders (GOFL) for the Wit and Wisdom program on Tuesday, May 6th. This event is a fantastic opportunity for professional growth and to showcase our instructional strategies.
I have included a PDF that includes detailed information about the GOFL program and testimonials from other teachers who have participated. It's a great way to get a sense of the benefits and insights gained from being involved.
We are seeking volunteers who are willing to participate and have an administrative walkthrough during this event. This is an excellent chance to engage with leaders and peers in a meaningful way, and I encourage anyone interested to consider volunteering.
Please let me know if you are willing to participate or if you have any questions about the event. Your involvement would be greatly appreciated as we continue to support each other in our professional development journeys.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to contribute to and benefit from this important initiative.
Sean
Originally shared in February.
We again have a wonderful opportunity to recognize the remarkable efforts and achievements of our students. I encourage each of you to nominate students who have shown exceptional qualities or improvements, both academically and personally. All staff members are eligible to participate in this nomination process.
Please take a moment to fill out the nomination form here.
Your recommendations are invaluable in helping us acknowledge the hard work and success of our students. Let’s ensure that every student who deserves recognition receives it!
Thank you for your continuous support and dedication to our students.
Exciting News!
Coming Soon: Our New Book Machine, The Thunderhawk Book Nook!
Please Note:
No district or building funds were used to purchase this machine or the books.
This machine is a special reward from our participation in the RFE fundraiser.
All books are generously funded entirely through donations.
The machine only accepts tokens, which will be awarded to students for being respectful, responsible, safe, and kind as part of our PBIS program.
Stay tuned for more updates!
The Book Nook is located in the Hub, next to the stairwell. This location is a bit more secluded and secure, with a camera directly overlooking the area. Additionally, it is situated beyond the lockdown line for after-school activities, enhancing its security during these events.
We are awaiting the arrival of the book order, but in the meantime, we have stocked the Nook with some books to give it a complete appearance.
The Book Nook operates on a token system. We will distribute tokens sporadically, and I will ensure they are handed out to staff for the initial round. If you don't receive tokens when they are distributed, please ask me—it's likely just an oversight. While anyone can distribute tokens, they are intended to reward truly exceptional, above-and-beyond efforts. Generally, this means one token will be allocated per class or department.
From Dawn Carlson: Enhancing Strength, Motor Planning, and Balance
Make hallway transitions fun and beneficial by trying these movement activities! These exercises help improve strength, coordination, and body awareness.
Tip-Toe Walk – Walk on your toes like a ballerina to strengthen your calves and improve balance.
Heel Walk – Walk on your heels with toes lifted to engage ankle stability and lower leg muscles.
Marching Walk – Lift your knees high with each step to improve coordination and leg strength.
Cross March – The same as the “Marching Walk” except adding touching your hand to the opposite knee.
Hands Above Head Walk – Reach up and clasp your hands over your head as you walk to stretch your body and engage core muscles.
Hands on Hips Walk – Maintain good posture and stability while walking with hands on hips.
Teapot Pose Walk – Place one hand on your hip (handle) and one hand is your spout. You may work on leaning to one side to “pour it out”.
Exciting (but Secret) News!
We have a Book Vending Machine on its way to our school! This was made possible through our participation in the recent RFE fundraiser—no school funds were used. We’ll stock it using RFE donations, Scholastic Bookfair funds, or gently new donated books.
This will be an extra special reward beyond Thunderhawk Slips or Tokens. The machine takes special tokens, not money. More details to come, but for now—keep it hush-hush!
Books are ordered, and the machine is on its way!
I had a student watch this today. Figured I'd share it if needed.