The Raider Professional
What's Going On In Raider Nation Vol. 2 Issue 32
Allow Students To Explain and Share What They Know!
Allowing students to explain what they know and demonstrate their understanding is crucial to effective teaching and learning. When students are given the opportunity to articulate their understanding and thought processes, it not only helps the teacher gauge their understanding, but it also reinforces the concepts in the minds of the students. This process of explaining and demonstrating their knowledge can enhance their learning experience and boost their confidence in their ability to apply the concepts they have learned.
Moreover, giving students the chance to go to the board and work through a problem or explain a concept to their peers is a powerful teaching tool. It not only helps the student who is presenting, but it also provides a valuable learning opportunity for their classmates. When a student takes on the role of the teacher, they often explain things in a way that is more relatable and understandable to their peers, as they have a unique perspective on the material.
Additionally, allowing students to explain their understanding can help teachers identify gaps in their own teaching methods. It provides insight into how the students are interpreting the material and can help the teacher adjust their approach as needed. It also provides a valuable opportunity for teachers to model how to communicate and articulate ideas effectively, which is a critical skill that students will need in the future.
In conclusion, allowing students to explain and demonstrate their understanding is an essential component of effective teaching and learning. It not only reinforces concepts and boosts confidence in students, but it also provides valuable insights for teachers and creates a collaborative learning environment where everyone has a voice.
We are W.J. Keenan High School. Home of the Champion Raiders!
Raider Reminders!
There are a few things that we will need to make sure we are doing to keep the natural order and flow of our school:
- School starts at 8:00 a.m. Remind students they need to report to class before then to avoid a tardy.
- Stand at your door during the change of each class.
- You must not leave your students unsupervised for any reason.
- If you would like to have an end of year class gathering, food must be purchased and packaged to be consumed. Students/teachers may not bring food prepared at home.
- Please do not allow students into the hallway without a pass.
- Please do not allow students that are not on your roster in your classroom. Students need to be in their scheduled classroom to receive credit. You are accountable for every student in your room.
- You may only sign out to leave on your planning period and/or with administrator approval in an emergency circumstance if you do not have a scheduled absence.
- If you are absent from school, it is your professional responsibility to input the appropriate information in Frontline in a timely manner. Substitutes are limited. Please check Munis prior to doing this so you are aware of your available days for an absence.
Raider Dates to Remember
Monday, March 27, 2023
- “Anyone who has ever made anything of importance was disciplined.” — Andrew Hendrixson
Tuesday, March 28, 2023
- Faculty Meeting @ 3:30 p.m. in the Lecture Hall
- Boys Tennis Vs. Columbia HS (At Home) @ 5:00 p.m.
- Raiders Baseball Vs. Columbia HS (At Home) @ 6:00 p.m.
- Lady Raiders Softball Vs. Columbia HS (At Home) @ 6:00 p.m.
- JV/V Boys Soccer Vs. Columbia HS (At Home) @ 5:30 p.m. / 7:00 p.m.
- “Optimism is the one quality more associated with success and happiness than any other.” — Brian Tracy
Wednesday, March 29, 2023
- “Champions keep playing until they get it right.” — Billie Jean King
Thursday, March 30, 2023
- Boys Tennis Vs. Columbia HS (At Columbia HS) @ 5:00 p.m.
- “Genius is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration.” — Thomas Edison
Friday, March 31, 2023
- JV/V Boys Soccer Vs. Columbia HS (At Columbia HS) @ 5:30 p.m. / 7:00 p.m.
- Raiders Baseball Vs. Columbia HS (At Columbia HS) @ 5:30 p.m.
- WJ Keenan Track @ Blazers Twilight (At Ridgeview HS) @ 5:30 p.m.
- Lady Raiders Softball Vs. Columbia HS (At Columbia HS) @ 6:00 p.m.
- “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Aniyah Hodges Wins Ms. W.J. Keenan Pageant!
Saturday night was absolutely amazing at W.J. Keenan High School. We celebrated beauty and intelligence under the cove in the Ms. W.J. Keenan Pageant. Thanks to Ms. Aishia Greene and her team for organizing a wonderful event.
At the end of the evening, Ms. Aniyah Hodges was crowned Ms. W.J. Keenan! She won a scholarship and an entry into the South Carolina Pageant that will be held later this year.
Here are More Pictures From The Pageant!
CHERYL LAWSON-WILSON, ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL FOR INSTRUCTION
Welcome to another week in Raider Nation!
By this time, when you login to SCLead each of your bubbles under your evaluation should be filled. If there is an unfilled bubble, that means there is an area that you still need to complete, and it is past due. Each of your bars should be at 100% . I cannot complete your contract information for next year without your work in SCLead. Contact me if you have questions about your specific instructions in SCLead. Thank you to those of you who have completed everything in SCLead. Your contract information is prepared for HR.
Parent conferences will be held from 1:00 -4:00 pm on Monday.
I would like to thank Mrs. Barton, Mrs. Alston-Smith and Ms. Wilson for assisting with test administration. I would also like to thank Ms. Stone, Mrs. Bradley, Mrs. Robinson and Mrs. Bakshi for an amazing NHS and Mu Alpha Theta induction presentation. Thank you to everyone who plays a role not just inside, but also outside of the classroom in the success of our students. You are the difference.
WIN testing will occur March 28-31 for all 11th grade students and 12th grade students that wish to earn a higher score to be considered C&CR . Test days and student names will be posted in the commons area prior to testing.
If you are teaching an EOC course, you do not have to wait to expose your students to the Online Tools Training. Please be sure to follow the links that will help you prepare for testing.
https://ed.sc.gov/tests/tests-files/eocep-files/algebra1-test-blueprint-2022-23
https://ed.sc.gov/tests/tests-files/eocep-files/biology-test-blueprint-2022-23
https://ed.sc.gov/tests/tests-files/eocep-files/biology1-teachers-guide-and-sample-items/
https://ed.sc.gov/tests/tests-files/eocep-files/english2-test-blueprint-2022-23
https://ed.sc.gov/tests/tests-files/eocep-files/2019-eocep-sample-release-items-for-english-2
https://ed.sc.gov/tests/tests-files/eocep-files/eocep-english-1-writer-s-checklist/
https://ed.sc.gov/tests/tests-files/eocep-files/eocep-text-dependent-analysis-scoring-rubric/
https://ed.sc.gov/tests/tests-files/eocep-files/ushc-test-blueprint-2022-23
Dates to Remember:
CCR WIN Testing March 28-April 14
State Practice Tests (EOC classes) - March 28-31
Spring break - April 10-14
Early Release/Professional Development - April 28
Prom - April 28
End of Course Testing - May 1 - May 19 in the small gym
AP Calculus Test - May 8
Spring STAR testing - May 10-24
Graduation - May 24
Last day of school for students - May 26
Instructional Reminders:
· Prior to interims, you need to have at least 7 grades reported in your gradebook. Prior to the end of quarter, you need to have at least 15 grades reported.
· Emergency lesson plans with five days of lessons should be available to your department leader. In your plans, you should have attendance rosters and class procedures accessible.
· Progress Learning (formerly USA Test Prep) is available for use. You should be able to use your login credentials from USA Test Prep. Let me know if you need support.
· If you are placing items outside of your classroom for display, please be advised that the standard addressed MUST accompany student work.
· As we plan, we need to make sure that we are addressing the Depth Of Knowledge levels in our lessons. An easy way to break this down is by having students answer each of these questions.
1. What are we learning?
2. How are we learning it?
3. Why are we learning it?
4. How can this learning be extended?
Observation non-negotiables:
1. Standards & Learning intentions should be addressed prior to the start of the lesson. They should be written AND communicated verbally as well as explicitly.
2. Gradual Release (I do, We do, You do)
3. Questions that move through different levels of thinking
4. Activities are aligned to standards and age-appropriate
5. Monitoring student progress and class management (moving about the room)
Have an outstanding week!
Keenan FFA Helps With The Meals of Hope Project!
Keenan FFA helped with packaging meals for hope at Pelion High School. Yesterday, SC FFA members were the epitome of the FFA motto, "Living to Serve", packing 37,404 meals to be distributed to those in need: exceeding our goal of 35,000 meals. The meals will be picked up this morning and distributed to South Carolinians in need in Dillon, Florence, Marlboro, Hampton, Bamberg, and Barnwell Counties.
Congratulations to Jamarion Charley for being named Player of the Week!!!!
Tyreik (hustleman) Davison at the Nationals!
Do Your Habits Match Your Goals? - Kimberly Jeter. Assistant Principal
As we are quickly making our way through the 22-23 school year; conversations with our 9th grade students have centered on this simple, but complex question, "Do your habits match your goals?"
The Raider Freshman Academy, emphasizes the importance of positive habits and character traits such as a strong work ethic, resilience, perseverance, self-determination, and self-regulation. High school presents all students, especially 9th graders with opportunities to grow in each of these areas. High school studies as well as life will present both successes and failures. As we approach the 4th quarter it is my continued task and mission to work together with Raider Academy teachers to teach, cultivate, and foster the growth of these skills to ensure our students have the best shot at academic, emotional, and behavioral success.
The Raider Academy News!
Shalise Wine, Magnet Lead Teacher
2nd Round Applications are being accepted. Please go to https://www.richlandone.org/domain/3016 to apply by April 28, 2023.
After you apply you must attend one of the parent information sessions.
In Person at W. J. Keenan High School Lecture Hall
Thursday March 30, 2023; 5:30 PM
W. J. Keenan High School
361 Pisgah Church Rd.
Columbia SC 29203
If you have any questions, please contact:
Mrs. Shalise Wine at 803-714-2500
The Raider Academy is Coming
Changes are coming in 2023-2024 school year. We are now a school within a school. We are called The Raider Academy. You will be receiving a letter discussing all of the changes that are coming up by the end of this week.
We have been invited to attend camp at the University of South Carolina's Hospitality program over the summer for two days. If you are interested in this amazing opportunity, please reach out to Mrs. Wine.
8th Grade Virtual Parent Meeting will be held on 3/30/2023 at 6:30 PM
Student Meeting will be held 3/17/2023 at 9:00 AM
Remember to remain in the magnet program you must maintain a 70 or above in all of your classes; if you need assistance, please utilize our afterschool tutoring programs: Raider Ready Program and the Raider Priority Tutoring Program.
The Raider Ready Program
The hours of operations will be Monday – Friday 3:15 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Students will receive a meal and transportation will be provided if they are zoned for W.J. Keenan High School. Please use the QR code to register your child for assistance.
The hours of operations will be Monday – Friday 3:15 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Students will receive a meal and transportation will be provided if they are zoned for W.J. Keenan High School. Please use the QR code to register your child for assistance.
Hey, wjkeenan Raiders! Make sure to take advantage of the 1st window of 3rd quarter content recovery! Teachers, make sure to inform your students and get them set up to make improvements.
Absence Reporting/Morning Routine
Teachers and staff, please help us keep our students and school safe by reporting to work by 7:30 (morning duty) or 7:45 am. Please be at your doors ready to receive students by 7:50 am.
Please be reminded if you are going to be absent, report your absence by:
1. Submitting your absence in Frontline (Aesop).
2. Sending an email that you will be out.
a. To: Mr. Hankins
b. CC: Ms. Erving and Mrs. McIntee
c. Subject: Your Name Absent Date of Absence (Ex: Jabar Hankins Absent 1/16/23)
3. Calling the school (if an emergency happens on your way to work).
Substitutes and staff members covering classes should arrive by 7:45 am.
Thanks for your cooperation and for all you do for our students.
Attendance Recovery (Seat Time)
Please be reminded that the deadline to make up attendance recovery (seat time) hours is Saturday, February 4. After this date, FAs (Failure due to Absence) will become a grade of F in students’ historical grades, if they have not completed seat time for their courses. This will mean students will have to re-take some courses to satisfy graduation/promotion requirements. This may also mean that some students may not graduate on time or may not be promoted to the next grade level.
Students who have seat time hours to make up may see Mrs. Wine, Mrs. DuBard or Mr. Hankins to get information for sign up and completion. Attendance recovery hours are offered Monday-Friday from 3:30 pm-5:30 pm and Saturdays (January 28 and February 4) from 9:00 am-1:00 pm.
Let's Talk Tutoring - Jabar Hankins, Assistant Principal
We strive to ensure that all our Raiders are successful and receive their high school diplomas. To help reach these goals, we offer our students ways to achieve academic success both during and after school.
Students or parents may sign up for after school tutoring to receive support with their studies.
Students can sign up for tutoring by using the following link: https://forms.office.com/r/hzBTPzSQMa
Our student athletes are automatically eligible for Athletic Tutoring. This program meets Tuesday-Thursday immediately at the end of the school day. In addition to Athletic Tutoring, we also offer two other means of school support.
Raider Ready Tutoring is offered to students in grades 9 and 10. Tutoring is offered after school and offers help in core subjects (English, math, science and social studies). Raider Ready meets Monday-Thursday from 3:30-5:30. Students receive an after school meal and bus transportation home (with the exception of Magnet students).
Raider Priority Tutoring is available to all students in grades 9-12. This program offers students some flexibility in study support, as students may choose face to face assistance, or may select the virtual (online) option to receive help from home. Assistance is offered in English, math, social studies and science, Tuesday-Thursday afternoons. Face to face hours are from 3:30-4:30. Transportation is NOT provided. Students/parents must provide transportation home. If students do not have transportation, they may choose the online option, which meets Tuesday-Thursday from 4:30-6:30.
We are committed to offering as many avenues to success as possible. Students may talk with Coach S. Gilley (Athletic Tutoring), Mrs. S. DuBard (Raider Ready Tutoring) or Mrs. S. Wine or Mr. J. Hankins (Raider Priority Tutoring) with questions or for sign up information.
Use The QR Code Below to Sign Up For Tutoring!
Notes for Raider Teachers!
Feedback From Observations: Focus on engaging students and having them do the work. Rather than standing up and writing on the smartboard as you are explaining, have students come up to the board and share what they know. Put students in groups and give meaningful activities. Use balls and other manipulatives to identify students for a response. Make these engaging strategies apart of your daily routine.
Handling Conflict: Please talk with our students about how to properly handle conflict. Encourage them to reach out to adults in the building to get help with situations that can potentially get them in trouble. Please convey the importance of working together resolve problems before they become bigger issues. It takes a village!
Student Work: Please start posting your best student work inside and outside your classroom in the hallways. You may also share by tagging WJK on social media.
Ask Yourself: What is the hook for today’s lesson that will keep them engaged? Is there an opportunity for my students to get up and move around with my lesson? How am I going to check for understanding? Am I giving students the opportunity to show me they have a grasp of the content? Am I using the DLE to enhance the lesson or am I simply giving electronic skill sheets?
Signing In and Out: If you need to leave campus for an emergency, please get approval from an administrator, and sign out in the main office. We are professionals.
PTSO: Please consider joining our Parent Teacher Student Association. It is a big part of communicating to our parents that we want to build a stronger partnership this year. The application is in the main office with Ms. Golston.
W.J. Keenan High School
Our Mission
The mission of W. J. Keenan High School is to provide engaging educational opportunities through a rigorous curriculum, cutting edge technology, and partnerships to extend to our diverse community and produce first class citizens who will contribute to the present and excel in the future. WE ARE KEENAN!
Our Vision
Our vision is to create a nationally known high school that is highly regarded for its academic excellence, leadership in cutting edge technology, science, environmental, and career based programs. A high school that builds strong relationships with all stakeholders and continues a culture where the expectation is to lead, set the example, and raise standards for all to follow.
Email: vondre.whaley@richlandone.org
Website: http://keenan.richlandone.org/
Location: 361 Pisgah Church Road, Columbia, SC, USA
Phone: 803-714-2500
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/keenanraiders/
Twitter: @wjkeenan