June 2, 2023
Top 5 in 5: Professional Learning
The Power of Hope Molecules
"Movement is how your brain knows you are alive and engaged in life."
- Kelly McGonigal
Your Body Can Produce Hope Molecules
KELLY MCGONIGAL, PHD
ELA Corner
Attention all K-2 grade teachers! As we have grown in our collective understanding regarding the Science of Reading (SOR), it has become clearer our current Tier I curriculum, Journeys, has some identifiable gaps in providing lessons that are strong in research based, best practices for reading acquisition. Because of this concern, we will be implementing a replacement program called Enhanced Core Reading Instruction (ECRI) for the foundational skills portion of the Journey's scope and sequence in grades K-2. Specifically, ECRI was selected based on the following rationale.
ECRI is one of the peer reviewed, supplemental resources that embeds SOR knowledge into programming and lessons for students.
ECRI is developed for the specific purpose of supplementing the gaps in foundational skills for Journeys.
ECRI lessons are already formatted as an Explicit Instruction lesson. Teachers will have a provided Explicit Instruction script for each lesson which can serve as an example when implementing the instructional strategies in other content areas.
Training on how to implement ECRI will be offered during the opening week of Professional Learning in August.
What's New in EdTech?
EdTech Research and Development Group
EdTech Research and Development Group
We would love to have you join the TCAPS EdTech Research and Development Group! Applications are now open. The teachers invited into this group will be asked to test different edtech components in their classrooms throughout the 2023-2024 school year. Apply today if you are interested in this opportunity!
TCAPS EdTech Research and Development Group - Teacher Application
Extended Day Registration Opens in Early July for TCAPS Employees
In early July, TCAPS employees will be offered a one week opportunity to sign up before official registration is open for Extended Day services for the 2023-2024 school year. Extended Day is available for students Kindergarten through Fifth grade with preschool offerings available at select locations. Please be on the lookout for more information that will be shared via TCAPS email in July.
For questions, please contact the Early Childhood Registration Coordinator at 231.933.1759
Place Your 2023-24 Copy Orders Now
As the current school year is quickly winding down, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about copy and printing needs for September. The Copy Command Staff works throughout the summer and can make the beginning of the next school year as stress-free as possible.
Early orders are greatly appreciated and ensure on-time completion.
Indicate if the order is for the next school year as it will help us prioritize orders.
Include a contact phone number if you do not check your school e-mail during summer break.
Remember to include quantities needed and your school site.
Orders will be delivered to your site throughout the summer as they are completed. Jobs submitted in September will be completed in the order they are received. Laminating and spiral binding jobs do not take priority during this time.
Student Support Network News
Do you have students who are experiencing barriers that might be creating obstacles to their learning? Reach out to the Student Support Network (SSN) for help with clothing, hygiene items, school supplies, and more. Simply complete the 2022-23 Student Support Request Form and we will do our best to fulfill the need and help your students be ready for learning!
Community Curricular Connections
Please click HERE for information and opportunities in our community that may connect with your curriculum or classroom. New opportunities added often!
Photo Gallery
Please share items for future editions of the INFocus with Alex Crane (craneal@tcaps.net).
When including photos of students, please be sure the family has not opted out of "directory information."
Cherry Knoll Math Night
Cherry Knoll families had the opportunity to enjoy math games and eat pizza donated by Peegeos at their most recent Math Night!
Submitted by Jeri Steichen