January 13th EditionImportant COVID UpdatesThis article includes information on vaccination communication templates, federal COVID relief, and, student assessment. Social Media Dos and Don’ts, Joe DonovanThis past fall, I spoke to a class of soon-to-be administrators. One of the students asked the following question: “Is there one thing administrators do or not do that creates problems for them and leads to a crisis?” “Yes,” I said emphatically. “Social media.” With that in mind, I encourage you to consider the following. What is the Temperature of Your staff? By Richard GretzingerAt James Williams Middle School, we work very diligently in pursuing a climate and culture that is both positive and ensures the success of all of our students. This has become extremely more difficult during the COVID-19 pandemic as we navigate virtual and blended learning models. The past nine months have truly proven to be a challenge and have elevated the stress levels of our staff, students, and community. But how do we not only keep a pulse on the needs of our staff but also respond appropriately to these needs? Former Principal Nominated as Next US Secretary of EducationOn Dec. 23, 2020, President-elect Joe Biden nominated Dr. Miguel Cardona, Connecticut’s education commissioner and a former teacher and public school principal, to be the next secretary of education. A former NAESP member and 2012 NAESP National Distinguished Principal, Cardona would bring educator experience to the role, an attribute Biden identified as a priority. January 27th EditionImportant COVID UpdatesThis article includes information on vaccination, federal COVID relief, the state mask mandate, and CDC research on school spread. What Are Your Plans for Prom 21?Last week, AWSA surveyed high school principals on their prom plans. Here are the results. New Collaborative Project Expands Opportunities for Mental Health Services to Wisconsin SchoolsThe DPI recently announced the creation of a statewide coaching network and resource center designed to better meet the mental health needs of Wisconsin students. Schools interested in the services and resources provided by the Wisconsin Center for Resilient Schools can fill out a simple request form. Statewide School Safety Threat Reporting System Available and Saving Lives; $500 in Promotional Materials Available with Train-the-Trainer WebinarIn September 2020, the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of School Safety (OSS) launched Speak Up, Speak Out (SUSO) Resource Center – a comprehensive, one-stop place to turn with important school safety concerns. Cyber and Data Resources that Won’t Break the Bank, Ed Snow and Annette SmithThere are ways to protect your district’s infrastructure and data that will not stress the budget. The following are excellent resources provided through state or federal grant dollars that EVERY district and school in WI should be using.
|