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🌟 April Focus: Finishing Strong with Purposeful Practice 🌟
As we approach the final stretch of the school year, our focus shifts to intentional review and test-readiness strategies across ELA and Math. This month, we’ll highlight targeted UDL-aligned supports, and opportunities for meaningful practice. In this newsletter, we’re centering on collaborative work and the use of AI to prepare students for success. The activities and resources can be used over the course of a year to better enable your students for success on assessments and building the stamina and supports they need to be successful. Let’s finish the year strong—strategically, supportively, and with every learner in mind!
important dates
bpst due april 4th
Just a reminder that BPST testing is due this Friday! Please make sure to complete your assessments and record all scores in the designated BPST Spreadsheet (Click Here) by the end of the week.Â
STAR DUE MAY 2ND
Just a reminder that STAR progress monitoring assessments are due by Friday, May 2.Â
Thank you for your prompt attention to this!
universal design for learning
Click on the images below to access the resources.Â
UDL Test taking/review activities
Understanding the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) helps create inclusive test preparation that supports all learners. By identifying common test-taking challenges, educators can apply targeted strategies to build skills and reduce barriers. Using UDL approaches—like offering multiple ways to access, engage with, and show understanding of content—enhances test readiness for all students, including those with diverse needs.Â
Below are the latest UDL Design Labs that I have presented to elementary and secondary teachers that were a hit with their planning. The activities are meant to be done throughout the year to build stamina and engage learners in test review that is represented in various ways. They can be adapted for any grade level and I am always available to plan and model the activities with your classes or review any of these PDs during your PLC.Â
Click images below to access the Canva Slide Decks.
ai in education
đź“ť Notebook LM: A Smarter Way to Support Student Learning
Notebook LM is a new tool designed to help students organize their thinking, summarize information, and deepen understanding of content. Whether your students are reading a text, exploring a science unit, or preparing for a writing piece, Notebook LM acts like a study partner—helping them ask questions, take notes, and generate ideas in a supported space. Perfect for elementary learners, it fosters independence while aligning with UDL principles and literacy standards. Give it a try during research projects, reading groups, or cross-curricular work! Click the Try Notebook LM Button above to access. Watch the video on How To below.
Click AI Toolkit above to access.Â
we will write
​"We Will Write" is an innovative platform designed to ignite students' passion for writing through collaborative and creative challenges. It offers a social, game-based environment where students engage in short writing bursts and provide feedback to one another, fostering a supportive community of learners. Teachers can bring these texts to life, enhancing students' understanding of literacy in an interactive way. The platform's mission is to help educators create a safe and engaging space where writing is practiced through play, making the learning process enjoyable and effective.Â
Thank you Mrs. Nielson for the recommended resource!Â
Click image below to sign up for FREE!
School library month
April is School Library Month, a time to celebrate the vital role that school libraries and librarians play in transforming learning. Established by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), this annual observance encourages school communities to recognize the contributions of libraries in fostering literacy, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of reading among students. Throughout the month, schools are encouraged to host activities that highlight the essential role of strong school libraries in education.Â
Click image below to access.
big bear eagle cam
​In March 2025, the Big Bear Eagle Cam captured the hatching of eaglets born to the well-known bald eagle pair, Jackie and Shadow, in Big Bear Valley, California. These hatchlings have captivated a global audience, offering a rare glimpse into the early stages of bald eagle development. The live-streamed footage provides an educational and inspiring experience, highlighting both the triumphs and challenges faced by wildlife in their natural habitats.
Eagle Lessons
Click image above to access lessons related to Eagles that can be used with your class as you explore the daily activities of the Big Bear Eagles and their eaglets.
Generation Genius
Click image above to access our free Bella Vista account to Generation Genius! Here we have access to all things Science and even Math! Find the videos and activities that would lend themselves well to Eagle Watching! Think Habitats, Ecosystems, How Animals Care for Their Young!
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