Dear Barbara Jordan Elementary Teachers and Staff,

We know some days can be tough, and it’s easy to feel like we don’t have all the time or resources we need. But even when motivation feels low, we show up and give it our best, knowing that our collective effort makes a difference. The right moment may never come, but by trusting one another and collaborating, we make progress together.

Believe in the work you're doing, and trust in your ability to overcome any challenge. We have a powerful opportunity to do great things this year. Together, with a strong sense of efficacy, we can help our students achieve their very best.

Our students deserve it, and so do you. Let’s keep pushing forward!

Thank you for your unwavering dedication.

Sincerely,

BJE Administration

February 1-March 1st - Black History Month

February 3-7th - Counselor's Week

February 3-7th - Spring Book Fair

February 3-5th Reading STAAR Interim Assessment (3rd, 4th, & 5th grade)

February 4-6th Vistas Testing Kinder (1:30-3:15)

February 4-6th GT Testing for 4th grade identified GT (TBD based on completion of Interim test)

February 5th - Team Leader Meeting (4 - 5pm)

February 5th - 100th Day of School

February 6th - Brighter Bites

February 7th - Lunch Bunch

February 7th - Heart Disease Awareness/National Red Day (wear red)

February 11th - Fourth Grade Field Trip

February 12th - Third Grade Field Trip

February 13th - Early Dismissal 12:10 p.m. (Parent Conferences)

February 14th - Student Holiday/Staff Professional Development

February 17th - Presidents Day Holiday/District Closed

February 18th - Classes Resume

February 19th - Faculty Meeting

February 19th - Brighter Bites

February 20th - Black History Program

February 21st - Barbara Jordan's Birthday(wear your Jordan gear)

February 26th - Spring Picture Day

February 27th - Career Day

February 28th - Student Holiday/Teacher Planning Day

Please be prepared for daily 15-minute walk-throughs and 45-minute formal observations. Plan with flexibility for schedule changes due to events, but ensure instruction continues regardless. Be sure your plans align with the campus calendar of events.

As we enter the testing season, it’s crucial that all devices on campus are ready and available. Please check your laptops and submit repair tickets for any issues. Ensure that laptops are properly stored in their carts and that the carts are plugged in daily to charge the devices.

Please continue reaching out to parents regarding student absences. If you are unable to make contact or do not receive support after repeated notifications, please notify Ms. Celene Pedroza and administration so we can ensure communication with the parents.

Please ensure that grades are up to date before meeting with parents for conferences. It’s important to begin discussing any potential retentions and have supporting documentation in place. Be sure to document more than just test results—include interventions and communication with parents regarding student progress.

We are not having Valentine's parties however, please provide the students an opportunity to share the Valentine cards/candy before leaving on February 13th.

• Microsoft TEAMS - always have your Microsoft TEAMS signed in and check during the day if you have important messages from the front office, administration, etc.

• Outlook Email - check your email daily (first thing in the morning, planning, and before leaving)

• Classroom Phone - Teachers and Staff should already be logged in to the classroom phone

• Grade Level Walkie Talkies/Radio - Someone from the grade level should take the radio to recess everyday

• Walkie Talkies/Radio - Leadership and Support staff carry the radios at all times throughout the day

Here are some effective strategies to encourage good behavior and minimize off-task behaviors:

1. Positive Reinforcement

• Praise and Rewards: Recognize and reward good behavior with praise, certificates, or small rewards.
• Classroom Incentives: Implement a system where students can earn points or tokens for good behavior, which can be exchanged for privileges or prizes.

2. Clear Expectations

• Set Clear Rules: Establish and communicate clear, consistent rules and expectations from the beginning.
• Visual Reminders: Use posters and charts to remind students of classroom rules and expectations.

3. Engaging Lessons

• Interactive Activities: Incorporate hands-on activities, group work, and technology to keep students engaged.
• Variety in Teaching Methods: Use a mix of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and keep lessons interesting.

4. Structured Environment

• Routine and Structure: Maintain a consistent daily schedule to provide stability and predictability.
• Organized Classroom: Keep the classroom organized to minimize distractions and create a conducive learning environment.

5. Positive Relationships

• Build Rapport: Develop strong, positive relationships with students to create a supportive and respectful classroom atmosphere.
• Peer Support: Encourage students to support and help each other, fostering a sense of community.

6. Proactive Classroom Management

• Monitor and Address: Actively monitor student behavior and address issues promptly before they escalate.
• Seating Arrangements: Arrange seating to minimize distractions and promote focus.

7. Parental Involvement

• Regular Communication: Keep parents informed about their child’s behavior and progress.
• Collaborative Approach: Work with parents to reinforce positive behavior and address any concerns.

Implementing these strategies can help create a positive and productive learning environment where good behavior is encouraged and off-task behaviors are minimized.

Thank you for your cooperation and dedication to fostering a positive learning environment.

https://forms.office.com/r/dFBjDCSx19

• Do not leave exit doors propped open
• Do not open exterior doors for anyone
• District level employees are required to check in at the front office
• Campus employees need to use their employee ID badges to access the building
• Classroom doors are to remain locked during the school day
• Escort any adult without an ID badge that you know does not work on the campus or notify the front office and keep track of the individuals location
• Establish a system for opening your classroom door for visitors to the class

Please print a copy in place in your substitute folder.

Teachers and staff have been organized into monthly “Lunch Bunch” groups. Each group will have an hour for lunch and can choose to either go off-campus or order in. A designated location within the building will be provided for those who stay. If you decide to go off-campus, we encourage you to select a nearby restaurant to ensure you return on time.

https://forms.office.com/r/82qhr349K2

https://forms.office.com/r/dMXfYp9U8g

https://forms.office.com/r/2H1UhwZMPC