Post date: Feb 14, 2016 8:2:45 PM
Hello All!
I'm writing to you on a perfect afternoon here in the sierras of Tahoe. The blue skies, glistening snow, clear river water, and breezy sunshine combine into quite an excellent day with family and friends. Years (!) ago I lived in a small cabin on the lake, working as a ski instructor in the winter and leading backpacking trips in the summer. I do love the city-life I've created since then, but this place has a powerful effect on me!
This week's newsletter is perhaps the first that lives up to the "coupla things" name; only two topics this time!
1. Same-day Homework Turn In Policy: I've finally found the conviction, reasoning, and support to establish a new homework turn-in parameter that will be better for my time-economy and mindset, and also good for the kids' habits and high-school preparation. It has taken too much time and fuss to deal with assignments that trickle in days, weeks, or even months after they were assigned and due. Starting in March, kids will be expected to come to school with work posted on the assignment list done (and printed if necessary). The only leeway they will have is an "end of the day" option for slightly reduced credit. Once the turn-in schoolday is over, assignments received won't get credit (unless due to absence or provided in an IEP or 504 plan).
2. SF Trip: A week from today (Tuesday) we are heading out on this great journey. First, I'd like to praise the kids in our class who found some really good spots for us to learn about in the non-touristy sides of San Francisco. Their research has yielded a very full agenda! Next, I am very glad that some really giving and reliable parents (Moira, Greg, John) are coming along on this great adventure. Lastly, the 7 parents that are working together to manage the meals (Marcy, Mona, Greg, Joan, Melissa, April, Shannon, Jane, and Susan) are crucial. The luggage drives are being done by Mae and Joan, so needless to say, this is a group effort!
I sent home an information sheet last week, and about half have come back with parent signatures and line-item initials. The most important thing to know is that the kids have to be at Winchester Transit Center at 7:15 on Tuesday morning. Don't go to DCS and please don't be late -- we can't wait because we have to be on lightrail at 7:28 to catch the 8:03 CalTrain bullet from Diridon Station in San Jose to SF.
Enjoy the week!
Chris