Week 5 - September 25, 2017
The gap between the skills people learn and the skills people need is becoming more obvious, as traditional learning falls short of equipping students with the knowledge they need to thrive. Today's job candidates must be able to collaborate, communicate and solve problems – skills developed mainly through social and emotional learning. Combined with traditional skills, this social and emotional proficiency will equip students to succeed in the evolving digital economy.
You can read the full article from the World Economic Forum by following this link.
This short video clip discusses - "What are the 21st-century skills every student needs?"
The gap between the skills people learn and the skills people need is becoming more obvious, as traditional learning falls short of equipping students with the knowledge they need to thrive. Today's job candidates must be able to collaborate, communicate and solve problems – skills developed mainly through social and emotional learning. Combined with traditional skills, this social and emotional proficiency will equip students to succeed in the evolving digital economy.
You can read the full article from the World Economic Forum by following this link.
This short video clip discusses - "What are the 21st-century skills every student needs?"
Middle School Study Hall
As parents of children in the Middle School, you may well be concerned about the way that Study Hall periods are being delivered. I too share your concerns and want to assure you that I am working with staff to ensure that what students are doing during these periods is rigorous and engaging. I hope that by the time you are reading the newsletter next week that I will be able to share with you some updates about the new program we plan to offer. Please give me this time to develop a plan that is valuable and accountable. I appreciate your patience and understanding.
Grade 1 Cubbies
I am very pleased that the new cubbies for Grade 1 that were ordered several weeks ago will be installed later this week. I thank the students, teachers and parents in Grade 1 for your patience.
Grade 8 Back to School Night
Grade 8 Back to School Night will take place on Wednesday September 27 (tomorrow) from 6.00pm until 8.00pm. Only core subject teachers will be in attendance. We look forward to seeing you there.
International Literacy Coach Cohort Training
Congratulations to Ivana Brajanovska who has been accepted into the sixth cohort of International Literacy Coach Cohort Training and the fourth one sponsored by CEESA. She will learn how to become an effective literacy coach and help us develop our school wide focus on literacy and collaboration. We wish her all the best as she completes this rigorous 2 years training program.
Cyberbullying unplugged
Cyberbullying is the use of technology to tease, humiliate, threaten and/or harass someone. It can take place through text messaging or social media. Cyberbullies might send mean comments, post embarrassing photos, or share private information about someone to humiliate or mock them online. Even if your child isn’t being cyberbullied, remind them that it is everyone’s job to prevent bullying and encourage them to take a stand. Please follow this link to a detailed fact sheet for parents.
Tips for parents - Connecting with Your Child's School Counselor for a Successful School Year
Understand the expertise and responsibilities of your child's school counselor. School counselors make a measurable impact in every student's life, assisting with academics, career and personal/social development. Professional school counselors are trained in both educating and counseling, allowing them to function as a facilitator between parents, teachers and students in matters concerning the student's goals, abilities and any area needing improvement. School counselors provide services not only to students in need, but to all students.
Meet or contact your child's school counselor. The beginning of a school year is an excellent opportunity to initiate contact with your child's school counselor. Find out who the counselor is and what his/her experience and background are. By communicating with one another, parents and counselors can have a definite impact on a child's success.
Discuss your child's challenges and concerns with the school counselor. As a parent, you know your child best. However, the school counselor can help you better understand your child as a student. It is important to encourage your child's expression of needs, hopes and frustrations. School counselors are trained to help children.
Learn about your child's school and social connections from the school counselor. When you need information or assistance, your counselor can help you get in touch with the appropriate school officials; learn about school policies on behavior, attendance and dress code; know the school calendar of important dates. The school counselor also can help you locate resources in the community when you need them.
Work with the school counselor to identify resources and find solutions to problems. If your child is having a problem at school, it is important to work with your school counselor to find solutions. Discuss resources available within and outside of the school, and get information on how such programs can benefit your child.
Your school counselor can be a valuable partner in your child's education and preparation for life beyond school! To get in contact with the NOVA EMS Counselor please email Mary Platz at mary.platz@nova.edu.mk
Please find below a selection of photos from around the school this week.
Russell O'Neill
EMS Principal