On Your Mark - Great Falls ES Update

Dev

[Intro Music] Hey everyone, and welcome back to another episode of the 'On Your Mark' podcast! I'm Dev, your Assistant Principal, and here with me is Sara, our incredible Principal. We’re here to keep you updated on all the exciting and important things happening at Great Falls ES. We have a lot to cover, so stick with us, and let's dive right in!

Sara

Thanks, Dev! And a huge thank you to our amazing staff. Winter is flying by, and before we know it, we’ll be at Spring Break! We appreciate everything you do to support our students and each other every day. So, let's start with the SR&R Mid-Year Review. Dev, what’s the key focus for this review?

Dev

Absolutely, Sara. The SR&R Mid-Year Review is crucial. We need to ensure our students complete the lesson by March 7 using the provided resources. If you’re departmentalized, coordinate with your teams to deliver the lesson. Morning meetings are a great time to fit this in. For K-5, the focus is on making safe choices at recess—managing peer conflicts, using safe hands and words. And for 5-6, we emphasize digital citizenship and responsible technology use. Emma, Jen, and I will assist 6th grade classes, so let me know a good time to stop by.

Sara

That’s a lot to cover! What about the upcoming Lockdown Drill? I know it’s a sensitive topic, but it’s important for everyone’s safety.

Dev

Definitely, Sara. The Lockdown Drill is scheduled for Thursday, February 27, at 2:00 PM. Please review the procedures with your students beforehand. Families will be notified 24 hours in advance. If you need any guidance, check out the resources in the newsletter. It’s essential to practice these drills to ensure everyone’s safety and preparedness.

Sara

Absolutely, safety first. Now, let’s talk about the upcoming events. Dev, can you give us a quick rundown of what’s coming up next week?

Dev

Sure thing, Sara. Mark your calendars! Here’s what’s coming up: February 24 to 28 is Bus Driver Appreciation Week—let’s show our appreciation with cards, notes, and banners! On February 25, we have the 6th Grade Field Trip to the American Art Museum. On February 27, there’s the Doug Kammerer Assembly at 12:45 PM, followed by the Lockdown Drill at 2:00 PM. February 28 is when Quarter 3 Interims are due, and Ramadan starts. From March 3 to 7, we have Read Across America Spirit Week, and March 7 is when SR&R Lessons are due for all grades. March 13 and 14, we have 6th and 4th Grade Field Trips to the Kennedy Center and Ford’s Theater, respectively. March 17 is Early Release/School Families, March 20 is the end of After-School Classes, and March 28 is the end of Quarter 3.

Sara

Wow, that’s a packed schedule! Speaking of Read Across America Week, can you tell our listeners more about the activities and how they can get involved?

Dev

Absolutely! We’re excited to celebrate Read Across America Week from March 3 to 7. We’ll have spirit days and fun activities in the library. Take some time for choice reading in your classrooms and encourage your students to participate. It’s a great opportunity to foster a love of reading and engage students in creative and fun ways.

Sara

That sounds fantastic! And next week is Bus Driver Appreciation Week. How can our classes show their gratitude to the incredible drivers who transport our students safely every day?

Dev

Great question, Sara. Here’s how your class can get involved: K-2 students can make thank-you cards or drawings. 3-4 students can write appreciation notes or create a class poem. 5-6 students can make a 'Thank You' banner or record a short video message. A little appreciation goes a long way—let’s make them feel valued! 💛

Sara

Absolutely! Now, let’s talk about Early Release Monday. Dev, can you walk us through the plan for February 24?

Dev

Sure, Sara. For Early Release Monday, here’s the plan: Starting at 9:05 AM, students will begin transitioning. At 9:55 AM, dismissal will begin—wait for your grade’s announcement. Be in the hallway to monitor and assist students. Recess duty will be handled by Amy Keefer, Jen Roberts, Elza Botha, Taleah Mizell from 10 to 11 AM, and Allie Boucher, John Boucher, Justin Kantor, Ashley Forrest from 11 to 12 PM. Afternoon plan: K-2 students will gather in the gym, take attendance, and guide them through the cafeteria for a free optional snack before starting rotations. 3-6 students will be sent to the gym at 12:30 PM for attendance and snacks before beginning rotations. Check the Early Release Plan linked in the newsletter for full details!

Sara

That’s a detailed plan, Dev. Now, let’s touch on some county-based information and opportunities. Are there any upcoming events or resources we should know about?

Dev

Yes, Sara. The Elementary Language Arts Team is hosting monthly collaborative corners for grades 1-6. This is a great opportunity for teachers across the division to collaborate and discuss Benchmark Advance implementation. February’s session will focus on writing, and March will focus on phonics and word study. Register for a session and share your ideas with fellow educators!

Sara

That’s a fantastic resource! And what about school highlights? Any shoutouts or special mentions we should share?

Dev

Definitely! A huge shoutout to Diane and Allison for brightening our spaces with beautiful flowers! Small acts of kindness really make a big impact, and we are so grateful. Also, don’t forget about our Student and Staff Shoutouts. Catch a student being Mindful, Accountable, Responsible, or Kind? Submit a student shoutout, and we’ll send a certificate home! Want to recognize an amazing colleague? Fill out a staff shoutout, and they’ll get a certificate in their mailbox!

Sara

That’s wonderful! And finally, let’s wrap up with some testing and screeners. Any updates on that front, Dev?

Dev

Yes, Sara. Quick update on SEL Screening—the next window runs from March 10 to 28. Please plan to administer the screener between March 10 and 21, with makeups happening the following week. If you need small group administration, let us know by March 3. We’ve also revised the SOL Testing Calendar based on your feedback! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me.

Sara

Thanks, Dev. Before we wrap up, any final reminders or announcements?

Dev

Just a few last things, Sara. County candid School pictures are happening Wednesday morning. Let Jen know if you have a preferred or non-preferred time. Make sure students and families order pictures online using our school codes. And that’s all for now! Thank you for your hard work and dedication. We are getting