Hello and welcome to another episode of AWSP News.
We hope you are surthriving during these crazy times in school leadership. Never doubt or forget the impact you have every day on kids and your school culture...even if it’s virtually.
We are getting inquiries from around the state from school leaders like you about what school will look like in the fall. Believe me, that is the hot topic from the Governor’s office to every home in our state. We were involved in OSPI’s original Reopening Washington Schools Task Force and have since formed additional workgroups to continue flushing out options for local districts to consider.
AWSP’s three Grade-Level Leadership Committees are all making this topic a priority for discussion and exploration. The more creative and “what is possible” voices we can bring to the table the better. If you are interested in getting involved or would just like to listen in to the discussions, reach out to our directors who lead these committees. For High Schools-Scott Friedman, Middle Level-Kurt Hatch or Elementary-Gina Yonts.
Regardless of the fact that we don’t have a crystal ball and can’t predict the future, we must all continue to be champions of public education by communicating daily the hope that we will return to our school communities AND that we’ll be even stronger. Join us and principals across the country in using the hashtag #createhope as you share the cool ways you are leading your school community.
Part of that hope is directly related to the rumors circulating about school related sports and activities. I am meeting weekly and throughout the week with the Executive Director of the WIAA who is also in constant contact with the Governor’s Office about what and how sports and activities will look like in the fall. You can expect some guidance in the next few weeks.
Thank you to all of you who have registered for our Virtual Summer Conference. Although this is not how any of us pictured wrapping up and celebrating the year, we guarantee that you’ll be impressed with the lineup of keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and a few other surprises we’ve got in store for you. We’re excited to announce that pre-conference sessions have ALSO gone virtual! Pre-cons will take place on various dates and at various times in June. Already registered? You’re all set! We’ll send you details about the new dates and times soon. Still need to register? Use your TPEP iGrant 664 dollars! You’ll find a separate registration form for pre-conference registration on our website. Register for pre-cons by June 4. While you’re at it, register for the full Summer Conference taking place June 29-30! We’ll bring Summer Conference AND the pre-conferences directly to you!
A sneak peek of the spring 2020 issue of Washington Principal magazine is now on our website. This issue is unlike any other because it includes a mix of articles written before and during the rise of the pandemic. You'll find fresh perspectives on inclusion, diversity, key relationships in the school, and leading in unprecedented times. We specifically highlight the leadership of North Thurston Public Schools and River Ridge High School Assistant Principal Mike Smith. They’re making sure the relationship between the Nisqually tribe and the schools who serve their students won’t be overlooked. We’re mailing print copies to home addresses this quarter for all members who have a home address on file with us. Watch for your copy coming in the mail in the next couple of weeks! In the meantime, check it out at awsp.org/washingtonprincipal.
Looking for ways to spice up some of your staffulty or team virtual meetings? Our members, like you, have been sharing with us some great ideas. So, if you are tired of staring at each other...how about an in-home scavenger hunt, a game wheel w/ prizes, a fun staff-appreciation point system, funny hat or dress up days, best virtual background competition, or March Madness bracket of favorite movies or songs. Keep sharing your ideas with us AND on Twitter using what hashtag? That’s right hashtag createhope as you continue to foster relationships and positive culture in your school.
Two rock star principals shared with us that they were worried about keeping students engaged and logging in everyday so they decided to make some funny videos that the kids can only see if they log in. What a great way to blend humor, relationships and accountability. Nice work Jeff Charbonneau of Zillah Middle School and Mike Torres of Zillah High School. I think I’ll send each of you an AWSP Amazon Gift Card just for reaching out to us and sharing about your leadership.
One quick final reminder, next week the Governor’s Office will be releasing a special video salute to the Class of 2020 graduates that you will be able to add to your virtual graduation ceremonies. We will be assisting in the distribution of this great video, so be watching for additional information.
I want to end by throwing out a little shout out to my AWSP Team. They are truly fantastic. They have turned on a dime to continue providing incredible support to principals, assistant principals and other school leaders throughout the state and country throughout this pandemic. From creating virtual workshops, office hours, to daily website updates, to super informative blogs, to member service calls...we are here for you. We hope you can feel the AWSP love. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for anything. You call, we’ll answer.
Well, that’s it from all of us here at AWSP. As always, keep up the great work for kids and we'll see you next week!