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Elementary Instructional Updates
Newsletter Issue 4 ~ April 2024/Vol.1
Message from Chief Academic Officer Dr. Frances Baez
As the days grow longer, the flowers begin to bloom, and a sense of renewal fills the air, I want to take a moment to say welcome to spring!
Spring offers a natural opportunity for a fresh start, both for you and your students. Spring is all about growth – both for plants and for your students' knowledge. Take some time to acknowledge the progress your students have made and celebrate their achievements.
Let's use this season to reignite a passion for learning in your students. Explore new topics, encourage curiosity, and make learning fun!
We appreciate your tireless dedication to education. May this spring season bring you renewed energy, joy, and a sense of accomplishment in your schools and classrooms.
Warmly,
Dr. Frances Baez, Chief Academic Officer
Division of Instruction
Contact Information
Website: https://www.lausd.org/instruction
Telephone: 213-241-4822
Follow us on social media!
- X- @LAUSD_Achieve
- Instagram- @instructionla
- FB- LASchools DOI
Inspirational Quote
~Benjamin Franklin
Instructional Updates and Resources
Spelling Bee Results
Thank you to our Regions for sending their 1st place winners to the LA County Spelling Bee competition. We are so proud of Alejandro Sanchez, 7th grade scholar from Region South, Peary Middle School, who secured third place. Congratulations to all participants for their hard work and determination!
The California State Spelling Bee is coming up on April 27, 2024, at the San Joaquin County Office of Education in Stockton, CA. The Scripps Bee Week is scheduled for May 26-June 1, 2024 in National Harbor, Maryland.
LAUSD Districtwide Arts Festival 2024
Please join us for our upcoming LAUSD Arts Fest on Saturday, April 27, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Los Angeles City College. We are excited to announce that our talented students will showcase their creativity and hard work. We will have multiple stages of student performances, food trucks, dances, a fashion expo, a visual arts gallery, and more. Click here to register.
For more information visit our website or contact Danielle Evers, Arts Coordinator, danielle.evers@lausd.net.
ADMINISTRATION OF i-READY END-OF-YEAR (EOY) DIAGNOSTIC
ADMINISTRATION OF i-READY END-OF-YEAR (EOY) DIAGNOSTIC, revised April 12, 2024
Link to IOC: InterofficeCorrespondence
Schools are required to:
- Choose a specific testing window within the designated time frame for i-Ready.
- Assign the i-Ready EOY Diagnostic assessments in both reading and math between April 15th - June 5th, 2024
- Assign the Assessment of Spanish Reading (ASR) between April 9th - June 5th, 2024
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UNIVERSAL TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN (UTK) ADMINISTRATION OF END-OF-YEAR (EOY) DIAGNOSTIC USING THE BEGINNING OF YEAR (BOY) ASSESSMENT, dated March 1, 2024
Link to IOC: InterOfficeCorrespondence
The purpose of this IOC is to provide updated guidance on the administration of DIBELS, mClass Lectura, and i-Ready Math Diagnostic during the EOY assessment window for students in UTK.
For more information, contact Maricela Sanchez, Elementary Executive Director, msanch27@lausd.net.
Outdoor and Environmental Education Program
- Beyond the Bell’s Outdoor and Environmental Education (OEE) Program offers immersive nature-based experiences for TK-12 students.
- Overnight science camps are available at Point Fermin and Clear Creek.
- The Day of Discovery Program offers field study opportunities at partner sites such as USS Iowa, Cabrillo Aquarium, and LA Zoo.
- The Skyhook Eco Van program visits schools and provides hands-on science investigations led by Naturalists.
Find Amazing Resources in Your April Discovery Education Newsletter!
Explore excellent resources and lessons in your April 2024 newsletter. Celebrate Financial Literacy Month, World Health Day, Poetry Month, Earth Day, and so much more! See page five of the newsletter for new on demand virtual experiences.
For additional information, please contact Sarah Johangiry at SJohangiry@discoveryed.com.
Expanded Teacher Access to the AMS
We have expanded your access to the Assessment Management System (AMS). This upgrade empowers you to create and customize assessments tailored to your students. You can design assessments that align perfectly with your teaching goals. Visit our website to learn how to get started.
Equitable School Performance Office and Data Champion Initiative (ESPO-DCI) April Newsletter
ESPO-DCI is pleased to announce informative sessions focused on distributive data leadership and Whole Child 2.0 User Interface. Sessions will feature information in i-Ready and data integration.
For additional information, contact Laura Londono, Data Specialist ESPO-DI, at llopez18@lausd.net.
Supporting Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) Cycles through Schoology
Strengthen your continuous improvement journey with Schoology! We understand the importance of the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) Cycle in driving effective learning, and Schoology offers a wealth of resources to support each stage. For additional information, contact Leigh Ann Orr, Coordinator, at leighann.orr@lausd.net.
LAUSD Students and Employees Can Access Digital Books for Free!
- The LAUSD Learning Library on Sora is a collection of ebooks, audiobooks, comics, and magazines available for all LAUSD students and employees. There is content for all grade levels UTK–12.
- The LAUSD Learning Library is a valuable resource for all readers. Teacher Librarians curated each grade-level collection available in various formats to engage your students.
- You can access Sora via the waffle in Schoology PLS_Job_Aid_Sora.docx or https://soraapp.com/library/lausd.
- Watch this video to understand how to use Sora! Click this link for the Spanish SORA video.
- Happy Reading!
Summer School 2024
Summer School Program Offerings
- New Interoffice Correspondence: Summer School Program Offerings
- This correspondence is to inform all principals about the 2024 summer program offerings.
- See the IOC for contact information.
Summer School Staffing
ALL: Summer School Staffing Application (SSSA)
The Summer School Staffing Application (SSSA) window is now open for administrators, certificated, and classified staff who are interested in working for the Summer School UTK-8 Program, High School Summer Term, or Extended School Year (ESY) from June 20–July 19, 2024. Candidates may apply using their single sign-on. To access the SSSA platform from outside of an LAUSD internet connection, the following is required:
Log in to the GLOBALPROTECT site
Enter your single sign-on information
Under the “Application URL” dropdown, enter: summer.lausd.net
Click on “GO”
You will then be directed to log on to the SSSA platform with your single sign-on information
- Administrators can continue to apply to serve as a Summer School Principal; the application period has been extended! For summer employment opportunities, click on the UTK-8 Program or High School Summer Term.
- Contact information:
- For questions about the UTK-8 program, contact Ana Estevez, Director, ana.estevez@lausd.net.
- For questions about the High School Summer Term program, contact Betsy Castillo, Director, bac9874@lausd.net.
- For questions about ESY, contact Ra’Daniel McCoy, Administrative Coordinator, esy@lausd.net.
- For questions about Early Education, contact Raul Moreno, Principal, rmore13@lausd.net.
Summer Edgenuity Mentors
New Interoffice Correspondence: 2024 Summer Edgenuity Mentors
This correspondence is to inform principals about the opportunity for teachers to apply as an Edgenuity mentor during Summer Term 2024. For additional information, please contact Carol Alexander at carol.alexander@lausd.net.
Awards
California Positive Behavioral Intervention Support (PBIS) Award Application is Now Open!
Schools may apply to be recognized by the California Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS). The application window is open through May 10, 2024. To learn more about PBIS and the application process, click here to visit their website.
California School Boards Association (CSBA) Golden Bell Awards
The California School Boards Association (CSBA) Golden Bell Awards application window opens April 1, 2024, and closes on June 28, 2024.
CSBA promotes excellence in education and school board governance by recognizing outstanding programs and governance practices of school boards throughout California.
Click here to visit their website and learn more about the application process.
Social Emotional Learning ~ SEL
Mindful Practices Linked to Improving Reading and Fluency
Did you know mindful practices are linked to improving reading fluency? The SEL Unit would like to remind you that all schools (TK-12) have access to Inner Explorer, an audio-guided mindfulness platform designed to support mental health and well-being in schools. Explore these resources to help increase mindful practices in your school community. Click here for additional resources.
Unlock the power of SEL: Resources to spark student growth and classroom well-being!
Dive into our diverse SEL curricula and discover a wealth of activities, strategies, and frameworks designed to:
- Increase growth across all learners: Our resources cater to various grade levels and learning styles, ensuring every student benefits from the power of SEL.
- Boost social-emotional competencies: Build student confidence, communication skills, and resilience with targeted activities for self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
Remember, with the right SEL resources and strategies, you can unlock a world of possibilities for your students. For additional information, visit the website or contact Debra Schneider-Jelin, SEL Coordinator, at dschneid@lausd.net.
Tutoring Services and Resources
On Demand Homework Help Available Now
On Demand Homework Help is available to all students in LAUSD! Students can access a live tutor with Paper.co through Schoology. Teachers may request a 30-minute virtual training slot by registering here or get support by visiting their website.
For more information, please contact Jessica Insco, Elementary Coordinator, at jessica.insco@lausd.net.
Paper.co Tutoring Professional Development Sign-up
Paper.co representatives are excited to discuss how to enhance the implementation of your school’s on-demand tutoring program.
They provide students with 24/7 access to expert tutors across various subjects, empowering them to get help whenever needed. Additionally, Paper.co supports your staff by offering valuable student learning and achievement insights. Please select your preferred time and date to schedule a session through this Google Form.
High-Dose Tutoring Transportation Request
Tutoring designees may request transportation for students enrolled in high-dose tutoring through MiSiS. Please allow 5-10 working days for transportation to confirm the request. Click on this link for more information.
Home-Based Virtual Tutoring Now Available
Please share with parents that Home-Based Virtual Tutoring is now available for eligible students, for subjects English Language Arts and mathematics. Visit the Tutoring Services website for more information. Parents can log on to the Student Enrollment Portal and select Enrichment & Other Programs to check eligibility and sign up eligible children for tutoring support at home. For more information, please visit the Tutoring Services website.
Professional Development
Save the Date - Computer Science Conference: #CS4LAUSD - May 18, 2024
ITI is calling all Los Angeles Unified educators! Join us for the #CS4LAUSD conference on May 18th. Engage in promising practices and expand your computer science teaching toolkit.
For additional information, contact Allison Jonas, Coordinator, at Allison.Jonas@Lausd.net.
AI 101 for Teachers
Discover the groundbreaking world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its transformative potential in education with code.org’s foundational online learning series for teachers and unleash the potential of AI in education! Join code.org for a free online series to demystify artificial intelligence, learn responsible integration, tackle bias, and revolutionize student learning outcomes.
For additional information, contact Allison Jonas, Coordinator, at Allison.Jonas@Lausd.net.
ITI Professional Learning Opportunities
Are you ready to level up your skills and embrace the future of education? The 2023-2024 ITI Professional Learning Catalog is now open for registration on MyPLN. Get ready to dive into cutting-edge topics like artificial intelligence, Cybersecurity Education, Digital Citizenship, ISTE Student Standards Suite, and computer science. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your teaching toolkit and empower your students!
For additional information, contact Allison Jonas, Coordinator, at Allison.Jonas@Lausd.net.
Unlock the magic of computer science for ALL students with the Amazon Future Engineer + BootUp Program
Title 1 elementary schools, take advantage of this opportunity! Implement FREE computer science education for the 2024-2025 school year. Click here for more information and to apply. For questions, contact Allison Jonas, Coordinator, at Allison.Jonas@Lausd.net.
Supporting Inclusive Practices Annual Conference
Join Supporting Inclusive Practices (SIP) Annual Inclusion Virtual Conference - The SIP Project is gearing up for their third annual SIP Inclusion Conference. Attendees will gain the tools needed to ignite change and sustain an environment where inclusivity isn't just a concept but a reality.
- Date: May 9-10, 2024
- Time: 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
- Location: Virtual
Click on the link to register. For more information, contact Joyce Radcliffe, Specialist, at joyce.radcliffe@lausd.net.
95% Phonics Lesson Library™ (PLL) Training for Resource Specialist Teachers
This training is for all TK-12 Resource Specialist Teachers. Participants will learn strategies to support struggling readers and learn how the 95% Group’s PLL addresses the study of the sound structure of words in an explicit and systematic manner.
- Dates: April 16, 22, and 23, 2024
- Registration: MyPLN, Keyword: ED4all
For more information click here or contact Joyce Radcliffe, Specialist, at joyce.radcliffe@lausd.net.
CKLA Initial Training and Ongoing Training
- The Elementary Literacy team is pleased to announce the availability of CKLA Trainig Opportunities for 2023-2024 Year 1, Not Previously Trained Schools.
- Additionally, ongoing training sessions are available for Year 2 and Year 3 schools.
- Please click on the flyer for additional information. Registration is through MyPLN for sessions April - June, 2024.
- For additional information, contact Susan Spillane, Elementary Literacy Coordinator, at sspillan@lausd.net.
UTK mClass DIBELS & Lectura Training
DIBELS and mClass Lectura training will be offered to UTK and UTK Dual Language teachers during the month of April. Please see the flyer for dates and times. Registration is through MyPLN.
Please refer to the correspondence for additional information:
IOC: UNIVERSAL TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN (UTK) ADMINISTRATION OF END-OF-YEAR (EOY) DIAGNOSTIC USING THE BEGINNING OF YEAR (BOY) ASSESSMENT, dated March 1, 2024.
Note: All ETK and TK students are to be administered the BOY DIBELS and/or mClass Lectura assessment at the end of the year. Do not access ETK and TK students until April 29, 2024.
For additional information, contact Fabiola Caicedo-Garcia, Elementary Literacy Specialist, at fcaicedo@lausd.net.
Core Knowledge Language Arts Menu of Supports
The Division of Instruction will provide all schools implementing the CKLA curriculum with ongoing professional development, on-site coaching, and an Ambassador program. DOI will also offer digital resources and videos to support the implementation of the curriculum. Click here for more detailed information or contact Susan Spillane, Elementary Literacy Coordinator, at sspillan@lausd.net.
Core Knowledge Language Arts Ambassador Sessions
Schools should identify one teacher from grades K-2 and one from grades 3-5 to serve as a CKLA Teacher Ambassador. CKLA Ambassadors will attend monthly, 90-minute PD sessions to strengthen lesson delivery, unit planning and program implementation. Principals/designees must identify their CKLA Ambassadors for 2023-2024 using this Identification Form. Training for School Ambassadors is funded by the Division of Instruction and paid at the $50/hr training rate.
For more information, contact Susan Spillane, Elementary Literacy Coordinator, at sspillan@lausd.net.
Illustrative Math (IM)
Teachers attending will explore the materials and structure of the Unit Planning Guides and develop a plan for upcoming units that focus on major work of the grade levels. Click on the flyer to access the schedule and training rate information.
For additional information, contact Helen Kim, Elementary Math Coordinator, at helen.x.kim@lausd.net.
Planning for Illustrative Math (IM) Centers
Explore how IM centers support a standards based instructional program by planning engaging activities that focus on grade level content.
Click on the flyer to access the schedule and registration information.
For additional information, contact Helen Kim, Elementary Math Coordinator, at helen.x.kim@lausd.net.
Eureka Math: Unit Module and Small Groups
Teachers by grade levels will unpack a module to better understand the structure of how lessons support key mathematical concepts presented and inform instruction. Select sessions will also cover an understanding of how Exit Tickets support differentiation and small group planning. Click here to access the schedule and registration information.
For additional information, contact Ricardo Romero, Elementary Math Coordinator, at rxr7304@lausd.net.
Building Fact Fluency Kits (BFF)
These sessions are designed specifically to support teachers with the implementation of the Building Fact Fluency Math Toolkits. These Mini Math PDs are optional opt-in sessions that principals may choose to include in their professional development plan. Sessions are hosted virtually via Zoom. Teachers in grades K-2 will focus on Addition/Subtraction strategies and teachers in grades 3-5 will focus on Multiplication/Division facts.
Click here to register. For additional information, click on the flyer or contact Ricardo Romero, Elementary Math Coordinator, at rxr7304@lausd.net.
Building Fact Fluency Games for Extended Learning Program (ELOP)
Join us to learn how to implement Building Fact Fluency (BFF) games to build number sense and fluency skills for students during ELOP.
Click on the flyer for registration information or contact Helen Kim, Elementary Math Coordinator, at helen.x.kim@lausd.net.
ELEMENTARY AMPLIFY SCIENCE
In this professional development, participants will internalize their unit by engaging in a deep dive and experience the instructional sequence of activities, lessons, and chapters from a teacher and student perspective while becoming more familiar with the texts, hands-on activities, and digital tools within the following units:
- Amplify Science Unit 3 Deep Dive
- Amplify New Teacher Support
Participants will receive guidance from a Professional Learning Specialist in lesson planning and pacing, followed by an opportunity for independent planning. Register on MyPLN.
For more information, please see the Science PD Flyer or contact Lillian Valadez-Rodela at lillian.valadez-rodela@lausd.net.
Climate Literacy Symposium
The Division of Instruction and the Eco-Sustainability Office present a virtual Climate Literacy Symposium. Deepen your understanding of climate change and empower students to take action for a healthier planet!
- Date: April 22, 2024
- Time: 11:30 a.m. - 3:20 p.m.
- Location: Virtual
Click on the flyer for more information or contact Jerry Song, STEAM Coordinator, at jerry.song@lausd.net.
Science 4th Grade Book Project
Scientists and engineers from the Aerospace Corporation with diverse backgrounds support this professional development. Participating fourth grade teachers will receive a class set of “Everyday Energy” science readers to enhance science instruction.
Registration is on MyPLN. For more information, please see the Science PD Flyer or contact Lillian Valadez-Rodela at lillian.valadez-rodela@lausd.net.
ELEMENTARY SCIENCE FOSS
Elementary Science Full Option Science System (FOSS) Curriculum
Life Science Units Parts 1-4 Just in Time Series
- Participants in these virtual and in-person sessions will join grade-level colleagues to engage in “just in time” experiences to learn and plan for FOSS Earth Science teaching and examine student work that results from the lessons.
FOSS New Teacher Symposium
- Elementary teachers are invited to attend a focused session on the FOSS Curriculum. We will examine the materials' scope and sequence and organization of the materials for all three strands: Earth, Life and Physical Science.
Registration is on MyPLN. For additional information, see the Science FOSS PD Flyer or contact Lillian Valadez-Rodela, Coordinator, at lillian.valadez-rodela@lausd.net.
Grant and Competition Opportunities
California Grant Watch Website
The California Grant Watch website lists grants for public school teachers for the improvement of education, innovative teaching strategies, and professional development opportunities.
Grant Writing Modules
The Division of Instruction has three online modules focused on Grant Writing. Each module is between 8-15 minutes in length. Module 1: A Grant Writing Guide; Module 2: Grant Application Process; Module 3: Key Components of a Grant Proposal. To access the modules, go to MyPLN, under the learning dropdown menu, select Search LAUSD Catalog, and enter keyword Grants in the Global Search. Click on the module you wish to view.
Observances and Commemorative Events
Click on the links below for activities and resources.
Months
Autism Awareness Month
Bilingual/Multilingual Learner Advocacy Month
Financial Literacy Month
Jazz Appreciation Month
Mathematics Awareness Month
National Council of Teachers of Math
Month of the Young Child
National Child Abuse Prevention Month
Parkinson’s Awareness Month
Poetry Month
School Library Month
School Library Month Resources
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
RAINN (Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network)
Stop Sexual Assault in Schools
Weeks
National Library Week (April 7-13)
Days
Earth Day (April 22)
Armenian Martyrs Day (April 24)
Administrative Professionals Day (April 24)
Denim Day/Peace Over Violence (April 24)
Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day (April 25)