Sunday, January 6, 2019

Happy 2019!









A big thank you to Georgette and Michelle for going out of their way to gather baking supplies for my
math enrichment group! Also, thank you to Russ, Jackie, and Cheryl for jumping in and helping the
different groups measure and mix ingredients! I had a few moments where I thought I was in way over
my head until you jumped in to help!
and
Thank you to everyone who provided snacks and lunches over the last couple of weeks! They were a
much-needed energy booster!
-From Erica Barraza


Thanks to everyone who was involved in our Pie in the Eye event that wrapped up our annual food
drive! Thanks to all who set up, cleaned up, and of course our brave participants! One of the best
pictures from the afternoon....(gotta love Kiki's face, too!)

-From Liz Andersen

When you have a kudo to share for someone, please just email me and I'll include it here! The goal is
to create system celebrations--so your input is truly welcome!


 


Business Office Updates
Leaves
If--due to your own needs or those of a family member--will be out for longer than 3 days, you MUST
consult with Maddie Espinoza to discuss a leave. She is happy to assist with insurance questions,
leave paperwork, and (if needed) making a sick day request.


ID Badges
With the new year, I have a new request. I’d ask that, starting immediately, we all make sure to wear ID
badges to ensure that we are all clearly identified in the buildings. I know we all know each other, but it
sends a message to our students but also is a best practice in school safety. I am HORRIBLE about
doing this, but I’ll be doing it, too!!! Our front office staffs at both schools do an excellent job of making
sure all those who enter the building have name tags and security clearance. You can wear your
badge around your neck, off a waistband, etc. but you need to be wearing it at all times. If, in your role,
you cannot wear a badge in your classroom due to the needs of students, then please make sure you
put it in when you are out and about the building. If you need a new holder or lanyard, please see your
school’s front office or let me know. If you have any questions or feedback, please let me know...and
THANK YOU in advance!

Curriculum Updates
Math
PIZZA PARTY CHALLENGE---pizza for all staff when we reach 80% of students meeting the 45
minute goal!


SEL


Second Step: On-Demand FREE Webinars

3% Salary Limit Round table: January 16th from 5-8 p.m.
As you may be aware, the General Assembly passed a law that requires school boards and universities
to make an enhanced contribution to TRS or SURS if an employee’s creditable earnings increases
more than 3% from the prior year (limit was formerly 6%). This provision took effect on June 4, 2018
and will apply to all contracts entered into or renewed after this date.


We have a few EAFL executive board members attending, but it would be great to have some other
members as well, especially if you are interested in serving on the upcoming negotiations committee.


Join us to discuss and learn:
Major elements of the law
Implications for collective bargaining
Truths and Myths about the law
IEA’s efforts to repeal the law


This event will take place at: Palatine IEA 553 N. North Ct., Suite 201 Palatine, IL
Click HERE to view the event flier.


New Awesome IEA Podcast
Episode 12: Legislative Platform

Melissa Jakstas, President
Maureen DeVoss, Vice President for Certified Staff
Chris Brown, Vice President for Non-Certified Staff
Katy Gardner, Treasurer
Betty Cwiak, Secretary
Cathy Jawnyj, Region Representative
Kendra Smeigh, Stanton School Representative
Tiffany Tardio, Lotus School Representative


*check here for documents most frequently used/requested
Please let Heather know of suggestions for any documents to add to this folder!






Blue Cross Blue Shield:


SEL Pacing Guides
Stanton:


Questions to Consider
What is your quote for 2019?
What is your word for 2019?


Check out this blog post from my man George Couros. Every year, he makes a list of great and motivational quotes to kick off January and the new year. See what from the list inspires you.
So…
What is your quote for 2019?


Also--one of my good friends picks a word in January of each year. The words are always
selected to challenge her, motivate her, inspire her, or help her get through what she sees coming.
Many of us have jumped on board and we now look forward to finding out each others’
“words of the year”.
Her word for 2019 is REFLECT.
My word for 2018 is FAITH.
So…
What is your word for 2019?


I’d love to get responses on these if you’re willing to share...feel free to email, write me a note,
call, or just tell me! :)



Save the Dates!
The Mobile Dentist is coming to Lotus on Monday February 11th, 2019 and Tuesday February 12th,
2019 and Stanton on Thursday February 14th, 2019. These clinics may be free of charge and will help
fulfill the necessary Kindergarten, 2nd grade, and 6th grade dental requirement. Forms were sent home
with every student earlier this week. If you are in need of additional forms, please visit our website
www.d114.org or contact Mrs. Lanners, our district nurse. In order for your child to participate, the forms
must be returned to the health office no later than Friday January 18th, 2019.

Ronald McDonald  physical and immunization mobile clinic will also be coming to Lotus on Thursday,
February 21st, 2019 and to Stanton on Friday February 22nd, 2019. More information to follow!

January 15, 2019--Board of Education meeting at Lotus--7:00PM
May 14, 2019--Board of Education meeting--NEW DATE


Looking forward to a great 2019 with YOU!

Heather