Principal’s Post
Learning Beyond the School Walls
When you don’t know how to do something, what do you do? Unless you are handier than me (and that’s not saying much), you likely YouTube it. Whether it is a dishwasher that isn’t cleaning properly or a computer that keeps freezing, someone somewhere has created a video that offers a solution to your issue. … Read More
PLCs and a Journey Toward Excellence
When I was hired as principal at Mineral Point Elementary School almost two years ago, I was excited about all the district had going for them. The teachers were experienced professionals. The students were excited about learning. Families and the community welcomed our arrival positively. One thing I did not initially appreciate as much as I … Read More
Mineral Point Elementary School Recognized as a Model Professional Learning Community at Work™
Mineral Point, WI, April 11, 2018 — Mineral Point Elementary School was recently recognized by Solution Tree for its sustained success in raising student achievement. The school’s successful implementation of the Professional Learning Communities at Work™ process was a major contributing factor in the improved achievement of its students. PLCs are schools and districts in which … Read More
Elementary Parent Letter: Upcoming School Board Information
On Monday, March 12, our school board will consider a recommendation for a reduction in force. The reason is due to low enrollment at the primary level. We are anticipating around 40 students for next year’s kindergarten class. We try to be proactive in responding to current enrollment trends, whether up or down. Questions have … Read More
Spring F.A.S.T. Session Open for Families
What if I told you that there was an easy way to increase communication between home and school, develop better family cohesion, and improve community relationships? Would you take advantage of this opportunity? If you said yes, consider signing up for F.A.S.T., or Families and Students Together. This program is facilitated by trained Mineral Point … Read More
Favorite Books I Read in 2017
“What do you do when you don’t know what to write?” A student asked me this during a classroom visit. My response: I read, and I find easy ways to write! One way I accomplish both is by writing reviews for books on Goodreads. This social media site for bibliophiles allows people to connect with … Read More
Winter Family Event Canceled for Elementary School
Well, the snow was nice while it was here! In anticipation of a possible lack of snow the rest of the winter, we are canceling our scheduled family day in February. It involved a snowman building contest and some seasonal-related family activities indoors. Maybe next winter will be more advantageous for hosting this type of event. … Read More
Pointer Pride
Over the holiday break, my family and I spent time with our relatives. We were away from school, doing our best to be present with those around us. Yet in a family full of teachers, it was not uncommon for our conversation to bend toward education. One topic that came up was the success of … Read More
How to Use My Scrip Wallet for Fundraising
Scrip is a program that helps raise funds for schools. When everyday items are purchased through Scrip, the school gets a certain % rebate back. Typically, people buy Scrip gift cards and then make purchases later. The challenge with this approach is many people (including me) forget to purchase the cards ahead of time. Fortunately, … Read More
A Strong Bond
If you are in the market for a good movie you might have never seen, check out The Straight Story. I recently rewatched this favorite film of mine. The main character is a senior citizen (Alvin Straight) who decides to travel from Iowa to Wisconsin to visit his estranged brother. Because of his ailments, he … Read More