1/8/24 Principal Newsletter
Dear Parent and Student and Educator,
Wednesday will be a full day. –No early out – to make up for the missed time this week. This week is our last week of Semester 1. See below for additional school information about weather, the end of the semester and semester 2 starting.
Cold Weather: Below are some reminders as the weather cools down. Students have access to lockers if they would like. Lockers were assigned at the start of the year, and we can easily look up your number and combination and assist you with opening your locker. Stop in the main office for support.
Weather Conditions and School Response: When we hold school and there are morning conditions that cause drop off delays, we take that into consideration for attendance. For example, last week, we had a bit of fog and students were given extra time to get to first hour classes without being counted tardy. With winter conditions and student drivers on the road, please go slow and take your time. If there is something that delays or prevents you from being at school, let us know.
School cancellations are announced through our school messaging system. Make sure your PowerSchool contact information is up to date; See this email from Dr. Embray, Superintendent.
Announcements this week: Last Week of the Semester
Let’s finish the semester strong! Instruction continues this last week of the semester as well as differentiated support to individual students. Depending on when this last outcome was, some students may be reassessing into semester 2 through RAMS time.
Students failing a course because of only 1, “1” –
We will be holding another reteach / reassess session for students that are at risk for not passing their first semester classes because of only 1 failed outcome. These students will be eligible for one more reteach/reassessment to get to a 2, minimum proficiency. Teachers will be working with their students through Jan. 30th, utilizing RAMS time, after school reassessment, and arrangement with students. Note: this opportunity is not available to students already passing all outcomes nor those who have failed numerous outcomes. The highest a student can earn on that outcome is a 2. Please keep in mind parents that a "1" in our 4,3,2,1 grading scale is an F, that is failing"; a student that earns a "2" for an outcome assessment is equivalent to a traditional grade of a "D"
Semester 2 Start Date and Schedules:
Semester 2 starts Tuesday, January 16th. (Reminder, we don’t have school on Monday, January 15th in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.)
How will my student get their schedule for semester 2?
Schedules will be viewable in PowerSchool. On the first day of Semester 2, 1st hour classes will be posted by the library trophy case and students will be directed to go to their 1st hour class to receive their printed schedules. Students are expected to follow their schedule given (attendance will be taken), and submit a request if needed for support. Guidance counselors will run a pass for students. If students have any open spots in their schedule, they are to go to the library. Schedule changes for S2 will be possible only within the first 5 days. –Jan. 22nd, for approved reasons only.
Reminder for student spectators at games –no loitering at concessions or restrooms. You are to return to the student section to cheer with fans after taking care of purchasing and personal needs.
Support for IWCC Students:
Students who are registered for Iowa Western courses in the Spring 2024, will begin their courses on Monday, January 8th. Wednesday, during the 1st period, IWCC and Mrs. Rodenburg will be meeting with students taking courses to assist them with getting started. Students will be called to the meeting in the auditorium by intercom announcement. Students –Check your email. A message has been sent to you from Mrs. Rodenburg with more details.
Students of the Week: Congratulations Students of the Week: These students exemplify what it means to demonstrate “Respect, Achieve and Improve, Make an Effort, and Serve Others”!
Reach out if you have questions. We are here to help and welcome your feedback.
Have a great week RAM Nation! Stay safe and stay warm!
Mrs. Lorraine Duitsman