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| BCSD Staff Newsletter |
February 2019 |
Superintendent Letter to Staff
Teaching and Learning Reorganization
Colleagues,
I am pleased to announce that Angie Martinez, Aaron Bronson, and Marcia Grabow will continue to serve our schools and our students as members of the Department of Teaching and Learning. Debi Gutknecht, as previously announced, is retiring. We do anticipate seeing her smiling face from time-to-time as she helps us through this transition and continues to support Community Resiliency Model training.
Our current Department of Curriculum and Instruction and Department of Student Services have worked very closely together as a Teaching and Learning Team. We are reorganizing these two departments and forming one unit under the umbrella of Teaching and Learning to provide even more cohesive support.
Angie Martinez will serve as the Executive Director of Teaching and Learning. Aaron Bronson will serve as the Director of Special Programs, and Marcia Grabow as the Data and Assessment Coordinator.
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The Executive Director of Teaching and Learning will provide leadership for the big picture of our core curriculum and professional learning and oversee the Department of Teaching and Learning, including our Teachers on Special Assignment, Director of Special Programs and Data and Assessment Coordinator.
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The Director of Special Programs will provide leadership for ensuring our special programs (i.e. special education, English as a New Language, Title I, Gifted and Talented Education, Homeless, 504) are tightly aligned with our core curriculum and instruction and providing whatever extra support is needed for our students to master the standards and beyond.
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The Data and Assessment Coordinator will continue to provide teachers and administrators with multiple data points and analysis so we can know which students are mastering the standards as well as gain insight on how we might adjust instruction for those not yet meeting the standards.
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Angie Martinez
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Angie's past experience as a principal, comprehensive knowledge of our vast curriculum and Idaho Content Standards, as well as effective instructional practices, makes her uniquely qualified to oversee this vast and vital function in the District. Her constant quest to facilitate understanding and clarify the WHY of what are doing will continue to be a big asset as we continuously strive to improve outcomes for students.
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Aaron Bronson
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Aaron's leadership in developing co-teaching to support our English Language Learners and schoolwide services in our Title I school is evident in the improved student outcomes we are seeing for these students across the District. Her knowledge of how to provide support so that all of our students can find success mastering the standards will be a great asset to all of our special programs. Aaron is currently leading our ENL programs and Title I in addition to serving as part-time Vice Principal at Hailey Elementary. She is a former special education teacher and building administrator so will also be able to guide our special education and GATE programs.
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Marcia Grabow
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Marcia's tenacity in organizing student data and asking thought-provoking questions is highly valued throughout the district. Her calm and unbiased leadership in helping us examine the data provides valuable guidance as we constantly strive to better support our students.
This new structure reduces the administrator positions in Teaching and Learning, freeing up allocation to provide more vice principal support at our elementary level. We anticipate that two of our elementary/K-8 schools will have half time vice-principal support this coming year. The half-time vice principal support this year at Hailey Elementary has been greatly appreciated by students, staff, and parents. However, with the reduction of staff among the Teaching and Learning Team, there will be things that the Department will either have to put on hold or turn over to buildings. (For more details see
Board Memo
)
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All Staff Invited
School Building Allocation Formula Review Meeting
The purpose of the meeting is to review the formulas used to develop building staff allocations for the upcoming year. All staff are invited to attend and learn more about the formulas.
Monday, February 11, 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Minnie Moore Room, BCSD Community Campus
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Teaching and Learning
February is a great month for a mid-year checkup. Below are some questions for you and your team.
How much growth have students made? What is there to celebrate? Which students are needing more support? How are you responding to these students?
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Grades K-5
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Login to Istation, and look at
Growth Reports
. You can print a Student Summary Handout for each student so students can see their growth for each subtest
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In Mileposts, use
Istation ISIP Growth - Reading, Math, Spanish
to see results by score or proficiency level
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Grades 6-10
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Login to Renaissance Place and run a
Growth Report
or
State Performance - Student
report; more information.
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In Mileposts, go to District Reports for:
STAR Reading, STAR Math, STAR Reading - Growth, STAR Math - Growth
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n preparation for Spring ISAT testing:
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Check if correct supports / accommodations are in place for students for Interim Assessments and ISAT. In Mileposts, run the Designated Supports Report and make any needed modifications (see
quick guide
)
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Technology
Get Ready for the Future
 We are in a constant state of technology evolution. As soon as we finally "get it" with one product or system, it's upgraded or changed. The expansion of personal, voice activated tools such as Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant is changing how we interact with our environment. The smart home and office, once notions of science fiction, are now a reality. Control heat, lights, microwave, music, video, garage door openers, you name it, from voice commands or a smartphone. Our electronic assistant can wake us up in the morning, start the coffee, play the weather and traffic reports, suggest the attire for the morning meeting, read the kids a bedtime story. The possibilities for the future are limited only by imagination.
In the Tech Department, we are always looking ahead and making plans for upgrades, replacements and new technology. Currently, we are evolving from Windows 7 to Windows 10. New windows-based desktops and laptops from now on will come with Windows 10. Over the next few months and during the summer of 2019, we will be re-imaging computers with Windows 10. Dell models over 6 years old such as Optiplex 380, 390 and 3010 are ready to be retired. As we expand one-to-one devices for students, we will reduce the number of fixed computers in labs and classrooms. Be on the lookout for more information over the next few months.
Stay alert to cyber scams! Even if you use a Mac, we are all vulnerable. Be suspicious of browser popups such as "
Your Flash Player may be out of date"
, this could install malware on your computer.
In Chrome, be watchful for unwanted extensions. If you notice unusual things such as your home page going to a different website, click the three dots in the upper right corner of browser window, select "More Tools" then "Extensions." You might be surprised at what is found there. Disable or delete any unwanted extensions. Never answer email requests for personal information from banks, Paypal, IRS, Apple, your boss or friend. First, check with the source.
Win a Starbucks gift card! The first person who emails helpdesk@blaineschools.org with the answer to these questions, wins.
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Name of person attributed with quote (in box above).
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What does this
button do?
Where is it located?
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Buildings and Grounds
The Buildings and Grounds Department is busy with winter responsibilities. In addition to clearing miles of sidewalks, along with acres of parking lots, the crew shovels off roof edges, clears numerous parking lot drains, and puts down literally tons of sand and ice melt. This typically happens long before the sun comes up and on weekends. This group is truly dedicated to the safety of our staff, students and patrons. While we make our best effort to ensure that our building entrances are safe, it also helps to take precautions when walking. Enjoy the video from Alberta, Canada, where they have similar challenges in the winter!
Along with their maintenance duties, this group also takes the opportunity to participate in student projects at the Wood River High School and they are slated to collaborate with the Residential Academy this spring to provide exposure to the electrical, plumbing and HVAC trades. We are fortunate to have such a dedicated and diverse group of individuals.
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Communications
Are You a Leader in Learning?
KMVT is looking for educators to highlight in a new "
Leader in Learning" segment. Contact
Heather Crocker if you are interested in highlighting an innovative student project in your classroom.
Board of Trustees Begins Budget Process
The first step in the budgeting process began with public input. The Blaine County School District Board of Trustees held a public meeting on January 17, inviting the public to provide suggestions and develop options for the 2019-20 budget. The meeting included:
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A brief presentation on projected revenues and expenses and update on the impact of the Supplemental Levy.
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Small group discussions answering the questions:
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Board summary of group discussions and Board discussion regarding guiding principles for the 2019-2020 budget.
The next step occurred at the regular Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, January 22, where the Board discussed guiding principles for the budget and gave those to the administration.
Notes, videos from the meeting and the budget guiding principles from the Board of Trustees can be read on the
website
.
Thank you to the staff who attended and the staff who volunteered to facilitate:
Tim Rierden
Sandy Mauro
Brad Henson
Tryntje Van Slyke
John Thomas
Maritt Wolfrom
Mark Sauvageau
Mike Glenn
Fritz Peters
Debi Gutknecht
Angie Martinez
Daniela Anguita
Adan Sanchez
Meet Some of Our New Staff
We are continuing to introduce staff who are new for the 2018-19 school year. Enjoy meeting our wonderful staff!
Dena Cohen-Copeland
First Grade Teacher/ Bellevue Elementary
Dena graduated from Prescott College with a degree in elementary education. She has worked in Salt Lake City for the past five years as a second grade teacher and curriculum specialist. Dena loves sharing the magic of reading with young learners. Her hobbies include reading, biking, backpacking, and playing with animals. She is very excited to be a Bellevue Elementary bear!
Custodian, Bellevue Elementary
Adrian grew up in Carey, graduated from the College of Southern Idaho with a associate's degree in liberal arts and from Idaho State University with a bachelor's degree in Anthropology. When not working, he works on his hobby of making stone tools. Adrian is very excited to be back in Blaine County and to be working at Bellevue Elementary.
Ernest Hemingway STEAM School, Special Education Teacher Grades K-7
Dani graduated from Boise State University with a Dual Certification in Elementary Education (K-8) and Special Education (K-12). She was born and raised in the Wood River Valley and was a student in the Blaine County School District from Kindergarten to High School graduation. She loves to be outside and spend time with friends and family whenever she gets the chance!
Bellevue Elementary, Music Specialist PreK - 5th
Laurie graduated from the University of Idaho with a Music Education degree and later received training in Orff and Kodály music methods, and a Spanish teaching endorsement. She has taught elementary music, choir, guitar, drill team, music technology, Spanish, and folk dance. Laurie directed "Soundsations" - a singing / drama / choreography classes out of her home for children ages PreK-6th. Her greatest passions are helping students experience the joys of reading, making, and performing music by playing the 12 bar blues, and helping students to experience the joys of harmonizing in a choir. Several of her school choirs and music students have received special recognition at Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival and in state choir and solo events. In her spare time, Laurie and her family enjoy working with high school exchange students, and have hosted fourteen, from all over the world. She enjoys traveling, hiking, boating and reading. Laurie and her husband Dan are empty nesters for the first time this year, and have four adult children, (two that are married), and a grandson. She is looking forward to authentic Mexican food and teaching music at Bellevue.
Developmental Preschool Hailey Elementary
I grew up here in the valley and went to Hailey Elementary School as a child. I always knew I wanted to come back and teach. I graduated from Northern Arizona University with a degree in Elementary and Special Education but since then I have found a passion for early childhood. When I am not teaching and working with kids, I am outside in the Idaho mountains. I love running, skiing, backpacking, hiking and yoga!
Junior Hidalgo
ENL Paraprofessional/ Wood River Middle School
I like to play soccer, bike, and travel for fun
Raechel Driscoll
SPED Paraprofessional/Wood River Middle School
I was born and raised in Indiana. In 1997 I earned my B.S. in Public Affairs from Indiana University where I majored in Environmental Science and Management. After graduating, I headed west to Idaho. I landed in Stanley where I was fortunate to live and work for 12 years. Four years ago my family and I moved to Oregon where I had the opportunity to work as a Special Education Paraprofessional. This experience inspired me enroll in a Teacher Licensure Program where I completed 23 master level credits in education. I am excited to be returning to Idaho near our family and friends, while continuing to work in Special Education. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time outdoors hiking, camping, and spending time with family.
Kelley Rushton
3rd grade Bellevue Elementary
I grew up in The Wood River Valley and attended Blaine County Schools, including Bellevue Elementary. I graduated from University of Utah and moved back to the beautiful Blaine County. I have guest taught since 2013, including an entire school year long-term position. I received my Masters of Elementary Education in June 2018 from Grand Canyon University. I can't wait to empower, inspire and support our future leaders!
Toni Whittington
Ceramics Teacher | Wood River High School
Toni holds a B.S. in Art Education from the University of Delaware and a M.A. in Art Education from Boston University. She has taught ceramics and visual arts at the secondary level in both public and private schools. Toni began her teaching career on the East Coast and has taught in the Caribbean and here in the Wood River Valley where she has had a home for 28 years. She loves nothing more than helping students develop and express their creative instincts.
Keith Wilson
ENL Teacher, Wood River Middle School
Spawned and pre-processed in a remote fishing town in Alaska, I am not only a teacher but a commercial fisherman. I am also an ultra-distance runner, cross-country skier, and a guy excited to live in the Wood River area.
Keith Wohlwend
8th Grade Science at WRMS
Mr. Wohlwend, graduated from San Francisco State University with a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology as well as a Masters of Kinesiology in Exercise Science. He stayed in SF after graduating to start and grew one of the largest outdoor fitness companies in San Francisco; BootCampSF. He is excited to share with his students his numerous adventures exploring the environments on all seven continents and micronesia.
Having settled into life in the Wood River Valley he enjoys the mountain bike trails, rafting the amazing Idaho rivers, and hiking the plethora of trails with his wife and two young children. His goal is to create an experiential learning experience for the young adults at Wood River Middle School through hands-on labs, collecting local geological evidence, and the process of scientific thinking. As an All-American in the Shot Put at the NCAAs you might see him coaching in the near future.
Mariza Sanchez
Paraprofessional/ Alturas Elementary
I moved from Gooding over a year ago to Bellevue. I previously work for ISDB and Gooding Elementary. I enjoy gardening and spending time with my husband of 19 years and my four children.
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Finance
Mileage Update
The 2019 mileage reimbursement rate has been released by the IRS (who knew that they were working during the Fed Government shutdown) and the rate has increased to 0.58 cents per mile. Starting January 1st 2019 all mileage that takes place in the new year will be reimbursed at this rate. All mileage reimbursement requests that are filed in 2019, but are for miles traveled in 2018 will be reimbursed at last years rate of 0.545.
Cyber Scams are becoming more common and more sophisticated.
Given the events that took place with our peers in the Teton School District last month we thought it was a good time to provide some guidance on cyber related scams.
TO: All MS-ISAC Members and Partners
DATE: November 28, 2018
SUBJECT: BEC Scams Evolving to Target Direct Deposit Accounts via Email
Malicious actors are evolving Business Email Compromise (BEC) scams to target direct deposit accounts through emailed change requests sent to Human Resource or Finance departments. The Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) has received multiple reports of state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments and private sector entities receiving a small number of spoofed emails. Of note, a significant majority of the employees who had their accounts spoofed were executive-level staff members.
This new variant utilizes a similar method of coercing targets to send money to the malicious actor as the previous BEC W-2 variant, which has resulted in significant data or financial losses for SLTT governments or employees. Further information about the BEC scam, including the Purchase Order, Wire Transfer/Financial Theft, and W-2 variants, is available in the MS-ISAC Security
Primer
.
INDICATORS
Hi
<HR or Finance Employee's first name>
,
I changed my bank and will need to update my paycheck DD details, can the change be effective for the current pay date?
Regards,
<Employee's Full Name>
Or
Hi
<HR or Finance Employee's first name>
,
I have recently changed banks and like to have my benefit of direct deposit changed to my new account. I need your prompt assistance on this matter.
Regards,
<Employee's Full Name>
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Follow-up message exchanges between the malicious actor and HR or Finance employee may include authorization to "override" any protections in place, requests to send a voided check instead of filling out a form, or reasons why the spoofed employee needs assistance.
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Referenced bank information: Gobank (a division of Green Dot Bank), Routing #: 124303162
Other indicators of BEC emails may include:
- Poorly crafted emails with spelling and grammar mistakes, that include a note indicating the email was sent from a mobile device (e.g. iPhone, iPad, Android, etc.) in order to convince the recipient the mistakes can be ignored.
- The wrong or an abbreviated signature line for the supposed sender.
- The use of full names instead of nicknames and a language structure that may not match how the supposed sender normally communicates.
- Indications that the only way to contact the sender is through email. In some cases, the emails appear to be timed to correspond with times the senior official is out of the office.
- The transactions are for a new vendor or new contract.
Originating IP addresses from outside the U.S., Tor nodes or Nigeria
- Internal warning banners that indicate the email is spam, spoofed, or from an external source.
RECOMMENDATIONS
- Immediately notify Human Resource and Finance departments employees of this new variant. Ensure they are aware how to report potentially malicious emails and have a policy for out-of-band verifications (e.g. verbal confirmations, etc.) of direct deposit or account changes or wire transfer requests.
- Flag emails from external sources with a warning banner.
- Craft a policy for identifying and reporting BEC and similar phishing email scams. Make sure to include the following:
- When receiving unusual financial or sensitive data requests, users should verify the identity, authenticity, and authority of the email sender via non-email channels.
- Users should ensure that the email is going to the correct person. The true recipient of an email can often be verified by hovering the mouse over the address in the email header.
- Users should reply by forwarding, and not by hitting the "reply" button, which helps to prevent successful spoofing attacks.
- Users should report suspicious emails to security staff. The MS-ISAC also appreciates receiving notifications of all BEC scam attempts.
- Develop a BEC Incident Response Plan.
- Collaborate with Human Resource and Finance departments to ensure their policies are supported by technological solutions.
- Report BEC scams to the MS-ISAC, local law enforcement, and the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Tax-related suspicious emails should be reported to the IRS. If there is a financial loss, notify the bank to stop payment and involve local law enforcement.
PERSI to increase their contributions rates starting in July 2019
The following material is taken from the PERSI fourth quarter Newsletter
CONTRIBUTION RATE INCREASE After reaching all-time highs at the end of August, the capital markets have seen significant volatility and drops starting in October. In particular, Wednesday, October 10th, saw the steepest plunge in the US stock markets since early February. The Dow was down -831 points and the S&P dropped -3.3%. The current forecast for the capital markets is a continuation of occasional volatility and general sideways movement for the immediate future. The Board, while giving strong consideration to postponing the contribution rate increase, determined that it would be in the best interest of the fund to allow the rate increase to go into effect. The contribution rate increase will go into effect on July 1, 2019. The rates will be:
GENERAL MEMBER
EMPLOYER 11.94% EMPLOYEE 7.16%
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BCSD Community Campus
Student thespians from our middle school and high schools are rehearsing for their spring musical, "We Will Rock You" The performance week will begin February 25th.
Our Community Campus Partners have a full schedule of after school activities and classes.
Kudos to our amazing custodial, technology and maintenance staffs who work early in the morning, late into the evening and over holidays and school breaks to keep our building open, accessible, and safe during the winter months. Thank you for all you do!
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Human Resources
KEPRO ~ Employee Assistance Program
Monthly Online Seminar ~ Building Positive Relationships at Work
When: January 15th
Enter your code
:
EAPNOW
and look for Online Seminars in the lower right hand corner of this homepage or you can search for them by title
.
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