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Principal's Corner

1/1/2021 - English Version Below
 
Estimada familia LISA:
 
¡¡¡FELIZ AÑO NUEVO!!!
 
Sinceramente espero que las vacaciones de invierno hayan sido maravillosas para usted y su familia. Tengo un par de notas importantes para el comienzo del semestre de primavera.
 
1. Los estudiantes que regresan del aprendizaje virtual al aprendizaje en el campus comenzarán el MARTES 5 de diciembre. Se están realizando ajustes en las habitaciones y esos cambios se completarán el lunes 4 de diciembre.
 
2. Los estudiantes que fueron aprendices en el campus en el otoño regresarán el lunes 4 de diciembre Y usted irá a los salones en los que estuvo durante el semestre de otoño. Algunas transiciones ocurrirán a lo largo del día.
 
3. ¡Para todos nosotros, es importante recordar las siguientes precauciones!
- Lávese bien las manos con frecuencia.
- Ponte tus máscaras. Use sus máscaras. Use sus máscaras.
- Mantén tu distancia.
 
4. Llevaremos a cabo el examen de invierno de NWEA durante las dos primeras semanas que volvamos a la escuela. Ya sea en casa o en el lugar, haga todo lo posible. Las instrucciones saldrán de nuestra Coordinadora de Pruebas, la Sra. French.
 
Finalmente, si aún no ha tenido la oportunidad de completar la Encuesta para padres / tutores, hágalo.
 
Encuesta de fin de año para padres / tutores: https://tinyurl.com/ya6etggt
 
Una vez más, espero que las vacaciones de invierno hayan sido maravillosas para ustedes, y espero que todos tengamos un año nuevo agradable y próspero. Gracias por ser parte de la Familia LISA.
 
Paz,
Dr. Durand
El Dr. Durand está leyendo "Las doce vidas de Samuel Hawley"

 

 
1/1/2021 - English Version
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
 
I sincerely hope that the Winter Break has been wonderful for you and your family.  I have a couple of important notes for the beginning of the Spring Semester.
 
1. Students who are returning from Virtual Learning to On-Campus Learning will start on TUESDAY, December 5th.  Adjustments are being made to the rooms and those changes will be completed on Monday, December 4th.
 
2. Students who were On-Campus Learners in the Fall will return on Monday, December 4th AND you will go to the rooms that you were in during the Fall Semester.  Some transitions will happen throughout the day.
 
3.  For all of us, it is important to remember the following precautions!
      - Wash your hands often and well.
      - Wear your masks. Wear your masks.  Wear your masks.
      - Keep your distance.  
 
4. We will be conducting the NWEA Winter Test during the first two weeks that we are back in school.  Whether at home or on site, please do your very best.  Instructions will be coming out from our Testing Coordinator, Ms. French.
 
Finally, if you haven't had the opportunity to fill out the Parent/Guardian Survey yet, please do.  
 
          Parent/Guardian End of Year Survey - https://tinyurl.com/ya6etggt
 
Again, I hope that the Winter Break has been wonderful for you, and I hope that we all have a pleasant and prosperous New Year.  Thank you for being part of the LISA Family.
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
Dr. Durand is reading "The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley"
 
 
12/18/2020 - English Version Below
 
Estimada familia LISA:
 
Llegamos al final de un semestre extraño, difícil y desafiante. Sé que ya he triste por esto algunas veces, pero aprecio sinceramente todo el arduo trabajo de los estudiantes, padres / tutores, maestros y personal. Solo a través de fuertes lazos de comunicación y compromiso con la educación de los niños lo hemos logrado hasta ahora. Y estoy absolutamente seguro de que a nuestro regreso de las vacaciones de invierno, ese mismo nivel de compromiso seguirá estando ahí.
 
Tengo un par de anuncios muy importantes sobre el próximo semestre. El primero de ellos es que realizaremos la transición a un nuevo enfoque con los Chromebooks. A partir de la segunda semana del semestre de primavera, iremos a un enfoque de 1 a 1 con Chromebooks. Esto significa que estaremos revisando Chromebooks para todos nuestros estudiantes. La expectativa es que los lleven a casa cada noche y regresen con ellos por la mañana, como si fuera un libro de texto, por ejemplo. Obviamente, habrá algunas políticas, reglas y procedimientos actualizados que acompañarán a este cambio, así que esté atento por correo electrónico, mensaje de texto y el sitio web de la escuela para obtener más información.
 
En LISA Academy West Middle, estamos muy interesados en escuchar los comentarios de nuestros padres y tutores. El distrito ha elaborado una encuesta que agradeceríamos mucho si nuestros padres y tutores la respondieran. El enlace a la encuesta está aquí:
 
Encuesta de fin de año para padres / tutores: https://tinyurl.com/ya6etggt
 
Otro anuncio muy importante tiene que ver con el formato de la escolarización del próximo semestre. Comenzaremos los viernes virtuales para todos los estudiantes. Los viernes virtuales serán días completos de instrucción, pero ofrecerán flexibilidad tanto para los estudiantes presenciales como virtuales. Los estudiantes trabajarán en Schoology para completar las asignaciones, trabajarán en la práctica individual utilizando recursos complementarios y podrán recibir apoyo de los maestros.
 
Un último anuncio muy importante: estamos en la temporada de inscripción para el año escolar 21-22. Sí, ya es ese momento. Los estudios demuestran que la forma en que obtenemos la mayoría de las solicitudes de nuestros estudiantes es por boca. Con ese fin, informe a sus amigos, familiares, compañeros de trabajo y personas que conozca sobre LISA Academy. Tenemos un video nuevo en el sitio web que es un recorrido virtual de nuestra escuela. También tenemos letreros en el jardín, volantes e imanes para automóviles para quienes los deseen. Simplemente llame a la oficina principal al 501-227-4942 y déjeles saber que le gustaría una señal (o 10). Además, si tiene su propio negocio o trabaja en un lugar donde se permiten los volantes, recoja algunos volantes para exhibirlos. También estoy disponible para hablar con organizaciones cívicas como los Leones y el Rotary Club, iglesias y lugares de culto, y cualquier otra reunión en la que crea que a la gente le gustaría conocer las increíbles oportunidades que ofrece LISA Academy. Si tiene una de esas oportunidades, por favor contácteme en durand@lisaacademy.org y le llamaré para configurarla.
 
Nuevamente, gracias nuevamente por todo lo que han hecho este semestre para que funcione para nuestros estudiantes. Continuaremos esforzándonos por ser la mejor oportunidad educativa para todos nuestros estudiantes, todos los días.
 
Paz,
Dr. Durand
El Dr. Durand está leyendo "Cómo el Grinch se robó la Navidad" (tanto la adaptación original como la de Cajun) mucho esta temporada.
 
12/18/2020
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
We've come to the end of a strange, difficult, and challenging semester.  I know I've sad this a few times already, but I do sincerely appreciate all of the hard work of student, parents/guardians, teachers, and staff.  It is only through strong bonds of communication and commitment to the education of children that we have made it thus far.  And, I'm absolutely confident that upon our return from the Winter Break, that same level of commitment will still be there.
 
I have a couple of very important announcements about the upcoming semester.  The first of these is that we will be transitioning to a new approach with chromebooks.  Beginning the second week of the Spring semester, we will be going to a 1-to-1 approach with chromebooks.  This means that we will be checking out chromebooks to all of our students.  The expectation is that they will take them home each night and return with them in the morning, just like it was a textbook, for example.  Obviously, there are going to be some updated policies, rules, and procedures that will accompany this change, so please be on the lookout via email, text, and the school website for more information.
 
At LISA Academy West Middle, we are very interested in hearing feedback from our parents and guardians.  The district has constructed a survey that we would very much appreciate if our parents and guardians would take.  The link to the survey is here:
 
                    Parent/Guardian End of Year Survey - https://tinyurl.com/ya6etggt
 
Yet another very important announcement has to do with the format for next semester's schooling.  We will be starting Virtual Fridays for all students.  Virtual Fridays will be full instructional days, but will offer flexibility for both onsite and virtual students.  Students will work in Schoology to complete assignments, work on individual practice using supplemental resources, and will be able to receive support from teachers.  
 
One last very important announcement - we are in the season of enrollment for the 21-22 school year. Yes, it's already that time.  Studies show that the way we get the majority of our student applications is by world of mouth.  To that end, please let your friends, family, co-workers, and just folks you happen to meet know about LISA Academy.  We have a brand new video up on the website that is a virtual tour of our school.  We also have yard signs, flyers, and car magnets for anyone who would like them.  Just call the front office at 501-227-4942 and let them know you'd like a sign (or 10).  Also, if you happen to own your own business or work in a place where flyers are permitted, please pick up some flyers to display.  I am also available to speak to civic organizations like the Lions and the Rotary Club, churches and houses of worship, and any other gathering where you think folks would like to know about the incredible opportunities that LISA Academy provides.  If you have one of those opportunities, please just contact me at durand@lisaacademy.org and I will give you a call to set it up!
 
Again, thank you again for all that you have done this semester to make it work for our students.  We will continue to strive to be the very best educational opportunity for all of our students, each and every day.  
 
Peace, 
Dr. Durand
Dr. Durand is reading "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" (both the original and the Cajun adaptation) a lot this season.
 
 
 
12/11/2020 - English version follows
 
Estimada familia LISA:
 
Bueno, podemos ver el final desde aquí. El primer semestre termina el viernes 18 de diciembre, solo falta una semana. Una vez más, quiero agradecer a todos los estudiantes, padres, maestros y personal que han trabajado tan duro en medio de condiciones tan desafiantes para hacer que la educación ocurra en medio de la pandemia. Quiero animar a todos a que sigan con ese trabajo durante la próxima semana, y luego a que intenten descansar un poco durante las vacaciones de invierno. La escuela comenzará de nuevo el 4 de enero, y ayer durante un taller se me recordó que los 57 días aproximadamente entre el comienzo de la escuela y las vacaciones de primavera son los días más importantes de cualquier año escolar.
 
Como saben, este otoño solo hicimos una prueba estandarizada: la NWEA a principios de año. Obviamente, haremos más pruebas en primavera. Haremos la prueba de Winter NWEA durante las dos primeras semanas cuando regresemos de las vacaciones de invierno. También haremos al menos una prueba ACT Aspire Interim durante la primera parte del semestre de primavera. Recuerde que estas pruebas NO son una "práctica". Cuentan y son importantes para nosotros para adaptar los objetivos educativos a cada estudiante.
 
Durante el semestre de primavera, también estaremos prestando un Chromebook a cada uno de los estudiantes en el sitio. Será responsabilidad de llevarlo a casa y traerlo todos los días a la escuela. Enviaremos un cargador a casa con cada Chromebook y tendremos cargadores disponibles en las habitaciones para recargar durante el día.
 
Me gustaría agradecer nuevamente a todos por su trabajo este semestre. Estoy seguro de que durante el semestre de primavera, aprovecharemos las fortalezas que hemos desarrollado este otoño. No habrá una charla con la directora ni citas durante la próxima semana, sin embargo, si necesita programar una reunión conmigo, no dude en enviarnos un correo electrónico a durand@lisaacademy.org y podemos programar una reunión. ¡Gracias!
 
Paz,
Dr. Durand

 

El Dr. Durand sigue leyendo "El Conde de Montecristo"
12/11/2020
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
Well, we can see the end from here. The first semester ends on Friday, December 18 - just a week away.  Again, I want to say thank you to all of the students, parent, teachers, and staff who have worked so very hard in the midst of such challenging conditions to make education happen in the midst of the pandemic.  I want to encourage everyone to keep up that work for this next week, and then to try to get some well-deserved rest over the Winter Break.  School will start again on January 4th, and I was reminded during a workshop yesterday that the 57 days or so between the beginning of school and Spring Break are the most important days in any school year.
 
As you know, we only did the one standardized test this fall - the NWEA at the beginning of the year.  We will be doing more testing in the Spring, obviously.  We will do the Winter NWEA test during the first two weeks when we get back from Winter Break.  We will also do at least one ACT Aspire Interim test during the first part of the Spring semester, as well.  Please remember that these tests are NOT "practice."  They count and they are important for us to tailor education objectives to each student.
 
During the Spring semester, we will also be checking out a chromebook to each of the on-site students. It will be there responsibility to take it home and bring it back each day for school.  We will send a charger home with each chromebook and we will have chargers available in the rooms for recharging during the day.
 
I would like to thank everyone again for their work this semester.  I am sure that during the Spring semester, we will build on the strengths that we've developed this Fall.  There will not be a Principal Chat or appointments during the upcoming week, however, if you need to set up a meeting with me, feel free to email - durand@lisaacademy.org - and we can set up a meeting.  Thank you!
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
Dr. Durand is still reading "The Count of Monte Cristo"
 
 
 
 
4/12/2020 - English Version Below
 
Estimada familia LISA:
 
Casi hemos llegado al final del primer semestre. Y qué semestre más extraño, difícil y, a veces, frustrante ha sido. Pero piensa en lo lejos que hemos llegado. A principios de 2020, ¿quién había oído hablar de Schoology, por ejemplo? Ahora, los estudiantes y los padres están navegando por el entorno del aula virtual, tal vez no como expertos, pero al menos bastante bien. De hecho, muchas de las dificultades que encontramos ahora son solo versiones virtuales de los problemas del año regular: los estudiantes tienen dificultades para prestar atención en clase porque están distraídos (en lugar de por el pájaro sentado en la ventana o el estudiante al otro lado de la clase, ahora esa distracción es YouTube, entre otros); las excusas "Google se comió mi tarea" son un poco más comunes ahora que "El perro se comió mi tarea"; y el estándar "¿Qué puedo hacer para mejorar mi calificación?" especialmente a medida que nos acercamos al final del semestre. Las familias han jugado un papel ENORME este año, especialmente con los estudiantes virtuales en este entorno nuevo e inquietante, y me gustaría agradecer a todos los padres, abuelos, tías, tíos, tutores, primos y amigos que se han comprometido con la educación este año. Puedo prometer que nuestra facultad y personal están trabajando arduamente para hacer realidad esos sueños educativos.
 
Este será un rincón del director bastante corto esta semana, porque estamos en la carrera hacia el final del semestre. Permítanme animar a todos a asegurarse de que los estudiantes asistan a sus eventos en vivo, a sus conferencias y hagan su trabajo.
 
Tendremos disponibilidad para charlas de 15 minutos conmigo los lunes y miércoles de 4:30 a 6:00 pm. Las citas se pueden hacer en https://durand.youcanbook.me/
 
Tendremos el chat del director nuevamente la semana que viene, el martes 8 de diciembre a las 5:30 en Zoom. La información de conexión está a continuación:
 
Tema: Chat principal
Hora: 8 de diciembre de 2020 05:30 p.m. hora central (EE. UU. Y Canadá)
ID de reunión: 991 0988 7886
Código de acceso: 763717
 
Sé que este ha sido un semestre difícil para todos. Por favor, manténgase a salvo y esté bien, ¡y sigamos trabajando juntos para que la educación funcione para todos nuestros niños!
 
Paz,
Dr. Durand

 

El Dr. Durand está leyendo "El Conde de Montecristo"
12/4/2020
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
We have almost made it to the end of the first semester.  And what a strange, hard, and at times, frustrating semester it has been.  But think how far we've come.  At the beginning of 2020, who had even heard of Schoology, for example?  Now students and parents are navigating the virtual classroom environment maybe not like experts, but at least pretty well.  Indeed, many of the difficulties that we encounter now are just the virtual versions of the regular year problems - students having difficulty paying attention in class because they are distracted (rather than by the bird sitting on the window or the student across the class, now that distraction is YouTube, among others); the excuses "Google ate my homework" is a little more common now than "The dog ate my homework"; and the standard "What can I do to raise my grade?" especially as we get close to the end of the semester. Families have played a HUGE role this year, especially with virtual students in this new and disturbing environment, and I would like to thank all of the parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, guardians, cousins, and friends who have been committed to education this year.  I can promise that our faculty and staff are working hard to make those educational dreams a reality.
 
This will be a fairly short Principal's Corner this week, because we are in the race to the end of the semester.  Let me just encourage everyone to make sure students are showing up to their Live events, to their Conferences, and getting their work done.  
 
We will have the availability for 15 minute chats with me on Monday and Wednesday from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m..  Appointments can be made at https://durand.youcanbook.me/
 
We will have the Principal's Chat again this coming week - Tuesday, December 8 at 5:30 on Zoom.  The connection information is below:
 
Topic: Principal Chat
Time: Dec 8, 2020 05:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 991 0988 7886
Passcode: 763717
 
I know this has been a difficult semester for everyone.  Please stay safe and be well, and let's keep working together to make education work for all of our kids!
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
Dr. Durand is reading "The Count of Monte Cristo"
20/11/2020 - Espanol - English Version is below
 
Llegamos al primer gran receso del año escolar: el receso de la semana de Acción de Gracias. Sé que mucha gente ha estado esperando la semana que viene. También sé que también hay muchas ansiedades. Espero que todos nuestros estudiantes tengan un descanso seguro y reparador, aunque sea más corto de lo normal.
 
Debido al comienzo tardío del año escolar, hemos tenido que hacer algunos ajustes a nuestro calendario académico original. Notarás que de lunes a miércoles (23-25 de noviembre) están designados como días escolares, y cambiaremos toda nuestra educación en línea durante esos tres días. Los maestros brindan oportunidades principalmente para que los estudiantes completen el trabajo que no se ha completado anteriormente, sin sanciones, para que los estudiantes puedan ponerse al día con el trabajo que se ha retrasado. Ayude a sus estudiantes a aprovechar estas oportunidades. Nuestros maestros aún estarán disponibles por correo electrónico y Remind y Schoology para responder las preguntas de los estudiantes y ayudar. Las horas son algo limitadas, pero los maestros se están comunicando con los estudiantes sobre cuándo pueden estar disponibles para ellos. Una gran ansiedad que siempre ocurre en esta época del año es el inminente final del semestre. Puedo recordar de mis días en la escuela que a veces me atrasaba y eso pesaba mucho en mi espíritu. Esta es una buena oportunidad para aliviar algo de ese estrés poniéndose al día sin la presión de nuevas asignaciones. Por favor, haga que sus estudiantes aprovechen este tiempo.
 
Debido a que es la Semana de Acción de Gracias, no tendré reuniones individuales con los padres a través de youcanbook.me excepto el lunes. El enlace para reuniones individuales es: https://durand.youcanbook.me/ . La charla con el director del martes se llevará a cabo con normalidad. La información de Zoom se encuentra a continuación.
 
Nuevamente, quiero agradecer a todos por darnos el privilegio de trabajar con sus estudiantes todos los días. Los estudiantes son la razón por la que todos ingresamos a la educación, porque realmente creemos en el poder de la educación para transformar vidas. Y reconocemos que trabajar con sus estudiantes es un privilegio que nos brinda. Gracias. Y, cuando se produzcan momentos de tranquilidad y descanso, aprovéchelos.
 
Paz,
Dr. Durand
 

 

Kevin Durand lo invita a una reunión de Zoom programada.
Tema: Chat principal
Hora: 24 de noviembre de 2020 05:30 a.m. hora central (EE. UU. Y Canadá)
ID de reunión: 944 0507 8904
Código de acceso: 481014
11/20/2020 - English Version
 
We've come to the first big break of the school year - the Thanksgiving Week Break.  I know so many people have been looking forward to the coming week.  I also know that there are lots of anxieties as well.  I hope all of our students will have a safe and restful break, although it is shorter than normal.
 
Because of the late start of the school year, we have had to make some adjustments to our original academic calendar.  You will note that Monday through Wednesday (Nov 23-25) are designated as school days, and we will be shifting all of our schooling to online for those three days.  Teachers are providing opportunities primarily for students to complete work that has not been completed previously, without penalties, so that students can catch up work that has been past due.  Please help your students to take advantage of these opportunities.  Our teachers will still be available via email and Remind and Schoology to take student questions and to help out.  Hours are somewhat limited, but teachers are communicating with students about when they can be available to them.  One major anxiety that always occurs this time of year is the looming end of the semester.  I can remember from my own days in school that I would sometimes get behind and it would weigh heavily on my spirit.  This is a good opportunity to relieve some of that stress by getting caught up without the pressure of new assignments.  Please, please have your students take advantage of this time.
 
Because it is the Thanksgiving Week, I will not be having individual meetings with parents through youcanbook.me except for Monday.  The link for individual meetings is - https://durand.youcanbook.me/. The Principal Chat on Tuesday will still be held as normal.  The Zoom information is below.
 
Again, I want to thank everyone for giving us the privilege of working with your students each and every day.  Students are why we all got into education, because we truly believe in the power of education to transform lives.  And, we recognize that working with your students is a privilege that you give to us.  Thank you.  And, when moments for peacefulness and rest occur, please take advantage of them.
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
 
Kevin Durand is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Principal Chat
Time: Nov 24, 2020 05:30 AM Central Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 944 0507 8904
Passcode: 481014
13/11/2020 - Espanol - English version is below
 
Estimada familia LISA:
 
Tenemos una semana más hasta la semana de Acción de Gracias. Eso significa que los IPR (informes provisionales de progreso) se publicarán pronto, es decir, estarán disponibles en Schoology, ya que no los enviaremos por correo. Cambié el formato del rincón del director de hoy para que algunas cosas se puedan resaltar mejor. Hay algunas actualizaciones con respecto a la Encuesta de defensores (por favor, llénela), el chat semanal del director, las reuniones individuales del director y el Día de Acción de Gracias.
 
Encuesta para defensores: https://tinyurl.com/y62yndml
 
Como saben, estos son tiempos que cambian rápidamente en la educación y algunos de esos cambios han sido inesperados: el rápido cambio al aprendizaje virtual en la primavera, por ejemplo. En LISA Academy, nuestro compromiso completo y continuo es la educación de nuestros estudiantes y sus hijos. Una de las cosas de las que estoy tan orgulloso es de todos ustedes que son firmes defensores de sus hijos. El compromiso que tiene con la educación de sus hijos es una de las cosas que fortalecen a LISA. Me gustaría alentar a todos a que lleven esa defensa a las cosas que son partes importantes de la educación que a veces están un poco fuera de la burbuja escolar normal para incluir empresas locales, gobiernos estatales y locales, grupos de defensa, organizaciones de padres y similares. Realmente nos gustaría su ayuda, si puede. Esta es una forma en que puede ayudarnos a construir un sistema educativo más sólido para nuestros estudiantes, nuestras escuelas y nuestro distrito. Tómese un momento y complete la encuesta vinculada aquí, https://tinyurl.com/y62yndml , para que podamos ver dónde residen sus intereses en continuar con su propio compromiso de defensa de sus hijos. Si pudiéramos tener la encuesta antes del Día de Acción de Gracias, sería increíble.
 
Devoluciones del "chat principal" : https://zoom.us/j/97981815027?pwd=T0R1SW9JUHZ6VzZtSThybCtmd1N5dz09
 
Tendremos nuestro chat semanal con el director nuevamente la próxima semana, el martes de 5:30 a 6:30 a través de Zoom. La información de acceso está a continuación. Asegúrese de seguir el enlace de Zoom, incluso si aparece en Google Calendar. Espero poder hablar con todos los que estén interesados. Como siempre, el formato será una sesión de preguntas y respuestas después de unos breves anuncios.
 
Reuniones individuales con el Dr. Durand - https://durand.youcanbook.me/
 
Puede programar una reunión individual con el Dr. Durand utilizando este enlace: https://durand.youcanbook.me/ . Pido disculpas por algunas de las dificultades que tuvimos esta semana, pero creo que he solucionado los problemas. El proceso consiste en hacer clic en una franja horaria en particular y solicitar la reunión. Luego, crearé una reunión de Zoom y le enviaré por correo electrónico el enlace a la reunión de Zoom. Nuevamente, me disculpo por las dificultades que tuvimos la semana pasada, pero realmente espero hablar con la gente.
 
Plan de la semana de Acción de Gracias y servicio de comidas
 
Tómese un segundo para revisar el calendario escolar. Los primeros tres días de la semana de Acción de Gracias son días escolares este año, pero están completamente en línea para todos los estudiantes. Comuníquese con los maestros de sus estudiantes sobre las expectativas en cada una de las clases, y si tiene preguntas o inquietudes más allá de esas, comuníquese conmigo en https://durand.youcanbook.me/ . Además, nuestro nutricionista del distrito quería que la gente estuviera al tanto de los planes para el servicio de comidas para la semana. Hay una discusión más larga en el boletín, pero quería sacar el enlace para que nuestros estudiantes en el sitio se inscriban, ya que la semana de Acción de Gracias será completamente virtual. https://forms.gle/ mY4VLDuzmGp6j7eF7  
 
Espero que todos estén sanos y salvos. Sé lo difícil que ha sido este semestre hasta ahora, y que todos están realmente cansados y agotados. Por favor, sepa que estamos trabajando arduamente para que este año sea lo más exitoso posible. Sabemos que tú también lo eres. Gracias por to do Su trabajo duro.
 
Paz,
Dr. Durand
El Dr. Durand todavía está leyendo "Una breve historia del tiempo"
 

 

Kevin Durand lo invita a una reunión de Zoom programada.
Tema: Chat principal
Hora: 17 de noviembre de 2020 05:30 p.m. hora central (EE. UU. Y Canadá)
ID de reunión: 979 8181 5027
Código de acceso: 854188
11/13/2020 - English
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
We have one more week until Thanksgiving week.  That means that IPR (Interim Progress Reports) will be going out soon - which is to say that they will be available on Schoology, as we will not be mailing them out.  I've changed up the format for today's Principal's Corner so that some things can be highlighted better.  There are some updates regarding the Advocate Survey (please fill it out), the Weekly Principal Chat, the individual Principal Meetings, and Thanksgiving.
 
Advocate Survey - https://tinyurl.com/y62yndml 
 
As you know, these are rapidly changing times in education, and some of those changes have been unexpected - the rapid switch to virtual learning in the Spring, for example.  At LISA Academy, our complete and ongoing commitment is to the education of our students and your children.  One of the things that I am so proud of is all of you who are strong advocates for your children.  The commitment that you have to your children's education is one of the things that makes LISA strong.  I would like to encourage everyone to carry that advocacy into the things that are important parts of education that sometimes are a little outside of the normal school bubble to include local business, state and local governments, advocacy groups, parent organizations, and the like.  We would really like your help, if you can. This is a way that you can help us build a stronger educational system for our students, our schools, and our district.  Please take a moment and fill out the survey linked here -  https://tinyurl.com/y62yndml - so that we can see where your interests lie in continuing your own commitment to advocacy for your children.  If we could have the survey back before Thanksgiving, that would be amazing.
 
"Principal Chat" Returns - https://zoom.us/j/97981815027?pwd=T0R1SW9JUHZ6VzZtSThybCtmd1N5dz09
 
We will be having our weekly Principal Chat again next week - on Tuesday from 5:30 to 6:30 via Zoom.  The access information is below.  Please make sure that even if it shows up on Google Calendar, that you follow the Zoom link.  I look forward to talking with any and all who are interested.  As always, the format will be a Q&A after some brief announcements.
 
Individual Meetings with Dr. Durand - https://durand.youcanbook.me/
 
You can schedule an individual meeting with Dr. Durand by using this link - https://durand.youcanbook.me/.  I apologize for some of the difficulties we had this week, but I think I have worked out the kinks.  The process is that you can click on a particular time slot and request the meeting.  Then, I will create a Zoom meeting and email you the link to the Zoom meeting.  Again, I apologize for the difficulties that we had this past week, but I really do look forward to talking with folks.
 
Thanksgiving Week Plan and Meal Service
 
Please take a second to review the school calendar.  The first three days of the week of Thanksgiving are school days this year, but they are completely online for all students.  Please reach out to your students teachers about the expectations in each of the classes, and if you happen to have questions or concerns beyond those, please reach out to me at https://durand.youcanbook.me/ .  Also, our District Nutritionist wanted to make folks aware of the plans for meal service for the week.  There is a longer discussion in the newsletter, but I wanted to push out the link for our on-site students to sign up, as Thanksgiving week will be completely virtual.  https://forms.gle/mY4VLDuzmGp6j7eF7 
 
I hope everyone is staying safe and sound.  I know how difficult this semester has been so far, and that everyone is really tired and worn thin.  Please know that we are working hard to make this year as successful as possible.  We know that you are, too.  Thank you for all of your hard work.
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
Dr. Durand is still reading "A Brief History of Time"
 
Kevin Durand is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Principal Chat
Time: Nov 17, 2020 05:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 979 8181 5027
Passcode: 854188
11/6/2020 - English
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
The last three weeks have seen some wonderful events that both virtual and on-site student could participate in - the Pink Walk, Red Ribbon Week, and this week, the Book Fair.  The Scholastic Book Fair just finished today and we had tremendous participation from students and families.  That makes my heart happy because reading is so very important.  It's the very best way to grow quickly academically.  The more we read, the broader our horizons, the stronger our understandings of the world, and the better we do in the strictly academic areas (like school).  Whether you were able to participate or not, please keep encouraging your children to read, read, read - and, especially, reading for fun.  Don't forget to check out social media for the pictures of the students doing great things!
 
As you know, these are rapidly changing times in education, and some of those changes have been unexpected - the rapid switch to virtual learning in the Spring, for example.  At LISA Academy, our complete and ongoing commitment is to the education of our students and your children.  One of the things that I am so proud of is all of you who are strong advocates for your children.  The commitment that you have to your children's education is one of the things that makes LISA strong.  I would like to encourage everyone to carry that advocacy into the things that are important parts of education that sometimes are a little outside of the normal school bubble to include local business, state and local governments, advocacy groups, parent organizations, and the like.  We would really like your help, if you can. This is a way that you can help us build a stronger educational system for our students, our schools, and our district.  Please take a moment and fill out the survey linked here -  https://tinyurl.com/y62yndml - so that we can see where your interests lie in continuing your own commitment to advocacy for your children.  If we could have the survey back before Thanksgiving, that would be amazing.
 
One programming note - next week, we will not be having our weekly Principal's Chat on Zoom (generally every Tuesday at 5:30) - because I have another meeting commitment.  However, if anyone would like to discuss anything about school, your students, schedules, other activities, and the like, or if you'd just like to ask some questions, I have created several appointments at https://durand.youcanbook.me/ .  The appointments are available on a first-come, first-served basis - but right now, they are all open.  They are on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from 4:30-6:00 p.m.  Please feel free to come have a conversation about school, your kids, and education.  I'm always happy to hear suggestions to help us improve, too.
 
Speaking of Thanksgiving Break, please take a second to review the school calendar.  The first three days of the week of Thanksgiving are school days this year, but they are completely online for all students.  Please reach out to your students teachers about the expectations in each of the classes, and if you happen to have questions or concerns beyond those, please reach out to me at https://durand.youcanbook.me/ .
 
The second quarter is well underway, and after Thanksgiving, there will only be a few weeks left until Winter Break.  We will not be doing any Standardized Testing (ACT Aspire, NWEA) between now and the Winter Break, so students can focus all their school attentions on their classes.
 
I would like to close by again thanking all of you for all of the hard work you do to make education work for your students.  Please take a second to fill out the Advocate Survey so that we can all pull together and do even more for our students. https://tinyurl.com/y62yndml 
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
Dr. Durand is reading Stephen Hawking's "A Brief History of Time"  
 
 
 
6/11/2020 - Espanol
 
Estimada familia LISA:
 
Las últimas tres semanas han visto algunos eventos maravillosos en los que los estudiantes tanto virtuales como presenciales pudieron participar: la Caminata Rosa, la Semana del Listón Rojo y esta semana, la Feria del Libro. La Feria del Libro Scholastic acaba de terminar hoy y tuvimos una tremenda participación de estudiantes y familias. Eso alegra mi corazón porque la lectura es muy importante. Es la mejor manera de crecer rápidamente académicamente. Cuanto más leemos, más amplios son nuestros horizontes, más sólida es nuestra comprensión del mundo y mejor lo hacemos en las áreas estrictamente académicas (como la escuela). Ya sea que haya podido participar o no, siga animando a sus hijos a leer, leer, leer y, especialmente, leer por diversión. ¡No olvide revisar las redes sociales para ver las fotos de los estudiantes haciendo grandes cosas!
 
Como saben, estos son tiempos que cambian rápidamente en la educación y algunos de esos cambios han sido inesperados: el rápido cambio al aprendizaje virtual en la primavera, por ejemplo. En LISA Academy, nuestro compromiso completo y continuo es la educación de nuestros estudiantes y sus hijos. Una de las cosas de las que estoy tan orgulloso es de todos ustedes que son firmes defensores de sus hijos. El compromiso que tiene con la educación de sus hijos es una de las cosas que fortalece a LISA. Me gustaría animar a todos a que lleven esa promoción a las cosas que son partes importantes de la educación que a veces están un poco fuera de la burbuja escolar normal para incluir empresas locales, gobiernos estatales y locales, grupos de defensa, organizaciones de padres y similares. Realmente nos gustaría su ayuda, si puede. Esta es una forma en que puede ayudarnos a construir un sistema educativo más sólido para nuestros estudiantes, nuestras escuelas y nuestro distrito. Tómese un momento y complete la encuesta vinculada aquí, https://tinyurl.com/y62yndml , para que podamos ver dónde residen sus intereses en continuar con su propio compromiso de defensa de sus hijos. Si pudiéramos tener la encuesta antes del Día de Acción de Gracias, sería increíble.
 
Una nota de programación: la semana que viene, no tendremos nuestro chat del director semanal en Zoom (generalmente todos los martes a las 5:30), porque tengo otro compromiso de reunión. Sin embargo, si alguien quisiera discutir algo sobre la escuela, sus estudiantes, horarios, otras actividades y cosas por el estilo, o si simplemente desea hacer algunas preguntas, he creado varias citas en https: //durand.youcanbook. yo / . Las citas están disponibles por orden de llegada, pero en este momento, todas están abiertas. Son los lunes, miércoles y jueves de 4: 30-6: 00 pm. No dude en venir a conversar sobre la escuela, sus hijos y la educación. Siempre me alegra escuchar sugerencias que nos ayuden a mejorar también.
 
Hablando de las vacaciones de Acción de Gracias, tómese un segundo para revisar el calendario escolar. Los primeros tres días de la semana de Acción de Gracias son días escolares este año, pero están completamente en línea para todos los estudiantes. Comuníquese con los maestros de sus estudiantes sobre las expectativas en cada una de las clases, y si tiene preguntas o inquietudes más allá de esas, comuníquese conmigo en https://durand.youcanbook.me/ .
 
El segundo semestre está en marcha, y después del Día de Acción de Gracias, solo quedarán unas pocas semanas hasta las vacaciones de invierno. No haremos ninguna prueba estandarizada (ACT Aspire, NWEA) entre ahora y las vacaciones de invierno, para que los estudiantes puedan concentrar toda su atención escolar en sus clases.
 
Me gustaría cerrar nuevamente agradeciéndoles a todos por todo el arduo trabajo que hacen para que la educación funcione para sus estudiantes. Tómese un segundo para completar la Encuesta de defensores para que todos podamos unirnos y hacer aún más por nuestros estudiantes. https://tinyurl.com/y62yndml 
 
Paz,
Dr. Durand

 

El Dr. Durand está leyendo "Una breve historia del tiempo" de Stephen Hawking.
30/10/2020 - Espanol
 
Estimada familia LISA:
 
El clima cambió bastante rápido esta semana, por lo que parece que el clima frío puede estar con nosotros ahora (aunque es Arkansas, por lo que aún podríamos tener un clima extraño). Pero ese cambio de clima siempre indica que estamos llegando al final del semestre de otoño.
 
Me gustaría agradecer a todos por ayudar con los dos eventos que tuvimos la semana pasada. El Pink Walk el viernes pasado fue excepcional. No solo fue una caminata de reconocimiento para el cáncer de mama, sino también un gran momento de enseñanza. Fue genial ver a casi todos ataviados de rosa y teniendo cuidado con el distanciamiento social. La semana pasada ha sido la Semana del Listón Rojo y nuevamente, ha sido tremendo ver la participación (tanto en el sitio como en línea) de estudiantes y maestros. Incluso desempaqué mi vieja chaqueta del equipo de tenis para el Día de las Décadas (no me queda tan bien ahora como hace 30 años). Puedes ver imágenes de las actividades de la semana en nuestras redes sociales.
 
La próxima semana tendremos la Feria del Libro Scholastic. Lo mencioné en el Corner de la semana pasada (y todos los Corners del director están archivados en nuestro sitio web). Tendremos una experiencia en línea y en persona. A los estudiantes que son virtuales se les enviarán enlaces para ver las selecciones y comprar libros que se entregarán directamente en su puerta. Los estudiantes que se encuentren en el lugar tendrán la oportunidad de visitar la Feria del Libro en el lugar, una vez más, manteniendo una buena distancia y siguiendo los protocolos del CDC y del Distrito. La Feria del Libro fue siempre mi evento favorito durante mis años en la escuela pública. ¡Espero que pueda ser tan alentador para nuestros estudiantes hoy como lo fue para mí cuando tenía su edad!
 
Durante la próxima semana, volveremos a hacer el chat con el director. Estará en su lugar habitual, el martes, a partir de las 5:30. Es un momento para charlar conmigo, hacer preguntas, dar comentarios y mantener abiertas buenas líneas de comunicación. La información para iniciar sesión está debajo de mi línea de firma.
 
Además, comenzaré una visita virtual al hogar del director semanalmente, con inscripciones disponibles. Cuando se registre para un chat, le enviaré el enlace de Zoom directamente. Realmente disfruté pasar tiempo con las familias y escuchar sus historias durante las visitas domiciliarias anteriores, así que pensé que sería bueno que fuera una característica habitual. Puede registrarse por un tiempo en https://durand.youcanbook.me/ . Los horarios disponibles serán de 4:30 a 6:00 pm los lunes, miércoles y jueves.
 
Por favor, asegúrese de leer el boletín de esta semana, porque están sucediendo muchas cosas. Consulte también nuestras redes sociales.
 
Paz,
Dr. Durand
El Dr. Durand está leyendo "On A Pale Horse" de Piers Anthony. Otra vez.
 
Kevin Durand lo invita a una reunión de Zoom programada.
Tema: Chat principal
Hora: 3 de noviembre de 2020 05:30 p.m. hora central (EE. UU. Y Canadá)
ID de la reunión: 989 6699 4210
Código de acceso: 593301
10/30/2020
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
The weather changed on us rather quickly this week - so it looks like the cold weather may be with us now (although, it is Arkansas, so we could still have wacky weather).  But that weather change always indicates that we are getting into the end of the Fall Semester.
 
I would like to thank everyone for helping with the two events we've had this last week.  The Pink Walk last Friday was outstanding.  It was not only a recognition walk for Breast Cancer, but also a great teaching moment.  It was great to see nearly everyone decked out in pink and being careful with social distancing.  This past week has been Red Ribbon Week and again, it's been tremendous to see the participation (both on-site and online) of students and teachers.  I even unpacked my old tennis team jacket for the Decades Day (it doesn't fit nearly as well now as it did 30 years ago).  You can see images of the weeks' activities on our social media.  
 
Next week we will be having the Scholastic Book Fair.  I mentioned it in last week's Corner (and all Principal's Corners are archive on our website).  We will be having an online as well as in-person experience.  Students who are virtual will be sent links in order to look through the selections and purchase books that will be delivered right to your door.  Students who are on-site will have the opportunity to visit the on-site Book Fair, once again, maintaining good distancing and following CDC and District protocols.  The Book Fair was always my favorite event during my own years in public school.  I hope it can be as encouraging to our students today as it was to me when I was their age!
 
During the coming week, we will be doing the Principal Chat again.  It will be in its regular spot - Tuesday, beginning at 5:30.  It's a time to chat with me, to ask questions, to give feedback, and to keep good lines of communication open.  The information for the log in is below my signature line. 
 
Additionally, I'll be starting a Principal's Virtual Home Visit weekly, with sign-ups available. When you sign up for a chat, I'll send you the Zoom link directly.  I have really enjoyed getting to spend some time with families and listen to their stories during the earlier Home Visits, so I thought it might be good to make it a regular feature.  You can sign up for a time at https://durand.youcanbook.me/.  Available times will be from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
 
Please make sure you read through the newsletter this week, because there is a lot going on.  Check out our social media as well.  
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
Dr. Durand is reading "On A Pale Horse" by Piers Anthony.  Again.
 
Kevin Durand is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Principal Chat
Time: Nov 3, 2020 05:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 989 6699 4210
Passcode: 593301
 
 
25/10/2020 - Espanol
 
Estimada familia LISA:
 
El rincón del director de esta semana es un poco corto esta semana. Hay muchas cosas que suceden en LISA West Middle - tuvimos el Pink Walk el viernes pasado, esta semana es la Semana del Listón Rojo y la próxima semana es la Feria del Libro Scholastic. Todos ellos se mencionan aquí en el rincón del director, pero el mejor lugar para buscar es el boletín semanal. Si no recibe el boletín, comuníquese con el Dr. Durand y avíseme para que podamos actualizar su dirección de correo electrónico.
 
Ya estamos en el segundo trimestre y es realmente importante en este momento del semestre ayudar a los estudiantes a mantenerse activos y comprometidos con el trabajo y las actividades escolares. Incluso los estudiantes virtuales pueden participar en la Semana del Listón Rojo y la Feria del Libro Scholastic. Para un breve viaje por el carril de los recuerdos, estaba mirando algunas cajas viejas en mi casa esta semana, y me encontré con "The Bunjee Venture", uno de los libros que obtuve de una Feria del Libro Scholastic durante mis días de escuela secundaria. No lo había pensado en años, pero me traía todo tipo de buenos recuerdos, así que me dispuse a leerlo de nuevo. Sigue siendo igual de bueno. Una cosa que he aprendido a lo largo de los años es que un buen libro es un amigo de por vida.
 
Quiero agradecer a todos por trabajar tan duro para hacer este año difícil un poco más fácil para nuestros estudiantes. Su salud, seguridad y educación son nuestras principales prioridades, y sé que las comparte. Cuando camino por la escuela, veo que los estudiantes y maestros son muy diligentes con el distanciamiento social, usan máscaras y usan desinfectante. ¡Sigamos con el buen trabajo!
 
Paz,
Dr. Durand
El Dr. Durand está leyendo "The Bunjee Venture"
10/25/2020
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
This week's Principal's Corner is a little short this week.  There are lots of things going on at LISA West Middle - we had the Pink Walk last Friday, this week is Red Ribbon Week, and next week is the Scholastic Book Fair.  All of those are referenced here in the Principal's Corner, but the best place to look is the weekly newsletter.  If you are not getting the newsletter, please contact Dr. Durand and let me know so that we can update your email address.
 
We are well into the second quarter now, and it's really important at this point in the semester to help students stay active and engaged in the school work and activities.  Even virtual students can participate in the Red Ribbon Week and Scholastic Book Fair.  For a brief trip down memory lane, I was looking through some old boxes in my place this week, and I ran across "The Bunjee Venture" - one of the books I got from a Scholastic Book Fair back during my own middle school days.  I hadn't thought of it in years, but it brought back all sorts of good memories, and so I set out to read it again.  It's still just as good.  One thing I've learned over the years is that a good book is a friend for life.
 
I want to thank everyone for working so hard to make this difficult year a little easier on our students.  Their health, safety, and education are our first priorities, and I know that you share those.  When I walk around school, I see students and teachers being very diligent with social distancing, wearing masks, and using sanitizer.  Let's keep up the good work!
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
Dr. Durand is reading "The Bunjee Venture"
10/16/2020 - Espanol
 
Estimada familia LISA:
 
Bueno, hemos recorrido una cuarta parte de este año tan extraño y desafiante. Sé que la mayoría de la gente está particularmente interesada en las notas, así que empezaré por ahí. Todas las boletas de calificaciones estarán disponibles en el Home Access Center (HAC). Los padres / tutores recibieron la información de inicio de sesión en septiembre y los estudiantes han tenido acceso todo el tiempo. Si por alguna razón puede poner sus manos en su información de inicio de sesión, comuníquese con la oficina principal (preferiblemente por correo electrónico), y las secretarias podrán enviarle la información de inicio de sesión. Esas personas son el Sr. Broyles ( rbroyles@lisaacademy.org ), la Sra. Cullers ( acullers@lisaacademy.org ) y la Sra. K. Miller ( miller@lisaacademy.org ).
 
Con el primer trimestre deslizándose hacia el espejo retrovisor, el segundo trimestre brinda nuevas oportunidades para aprender, trabajar duro y tener éxito. Sé que he dicho esto antes, pero vale la pena repetirlo: estoy muy, muy agradecido por todos los adultos en la vida de nuestros estudiantes que están trabajando tan duro para que este año escolar funcione para nuestros estudiantes virtuales y presenciales. Sé que surgen nuevos desafíos casi a diario y puede resultar muy abrumador. Y cuando esas cosas suceden, los nervios se tensan y siempre existe la tentación acechando en el fondo de rendirse. Recuerde que superaremos esto y que un pequeño estímulo más para nuestros estudiantes puede significar la diferencia entre el éxito y no completar el trabajo y las asignaciones. Estamos trabajando para hacer algunas reducciones en la cantidad de trabajo requerido de los estudiantes, incluida la eliminación fundamental del trabajo fuera del tiempo de clase (virtual o presencial). Me gustaría mencionar algunas cosas que he visto que funcionan para mejorar las experiencias de los estudiantes durante este tiempo.
 
(1) Mantente en línea durante las sesiones en vivo que realizan los profesores. Los estudiantes que inician sesión y trabajan junto con los profesores tienden a hacerlo mejor que aquellos que intentan hacerlo todo por sí mismos. En el caso de que las sesiones se pierdan, es mejor ver la grabación que nada, y siempre se alienta a contactar al maestro para pedir ayuda.
(2) Cuando esté en línea, ya sea virtual o en el sitio, manténgase enfocado. Es tan fácil querer abrir esa pestaña de YouTube y dejar que la mente divague que permanecer en la tarea en cuestión. Estamos utilizando el sistema Securly para ayudar a reenfocar y redirigir a los estudiantes de deambular en línea cuando las sesiones en vivo están en curso o cuando los maestros están trabajando con estudiantes con Chromebooks para conferencias, demostraciones o tareas de clase.
(3) Manténgase al tanto de las cosas: sé que empiezo a sentirme abrumado cuando pospongo las cosas o pienso: "Llegaré a eso más tarde", y luego viene "más tarde" y otras cosas se deben, y luego solo construye. Uno de mis libros favoritos es "Ben y yo", sobre el padre fundador Ben Franklin y el ratoncito que vivía dentro de su sombrero (es ficción, pero es divertido). Pero, en ese libro, se cita una de las "palabras por las que vivir" del Sr. Franklin: no posponga para mañana lo que se puede hacer hoy. Es difícil vivir con eso, pero definitivamente me ha ayudado a mantener mis propias tareas en orden.
 
Entonces, esencialmente eso equivale a (1) estar presente, (2) mantenerse enfocado y (3) mantenerse al tanto de las cosas. Todos esos son más desafiantes durante este año hasta ahora, pero realmente ayudan.
 
Una actualización sobre un par de cosas que mencioné en anteriores Esquinas del director: a partir de la próxima semana, los clubes de competencia cuyos patrocinadores hayan terminado todos los preparativos apropiados permitirán que los estudiantes virtuales vengan al campus solo durante el tiempo del club. Entonces, por ejemplo, los estudiantes que son virtuales y están en el club Quiz Bowl podrán venir al campus para Quiz Bowl. Sin embargo, no vengas hasta que te contacte el patrocinador del club. Cada uno de los patrocinadores sabrá cuándo han completado sus tareas para ayudar a garantizar la seguridad, y cada patrocinador se comunicará directamente con los miembros de los clubes. Seguimos trabajando en formas de incluir estudiantes virtuales en eventos de socialización virtual.
 
Se acerca la semana del Listón Rojo, y hay más información al respecto en el boletín, así que por favor revise esos anuncios. El boletín también tiene otros datos importantes que ayudarán a todos a estar al tanto de los eventos y las próximas actividades. Se publica todos los viernes, así que esté atento.
 
Me gustaría concluir dando las gracias nuevamente a todos los que están trabajando tan duro este año: estudiantes, padres / tutores / abuelos y maestros. Con todos trabajando juntos, superaremos esto. Permítanme recordarles a todos el chat del director que se lleva a cabo en Zoom el martes a las 5:30 pm. La información de la sesión se encuentra a continuación.
 
Paz,
Dr. Durand
El Dr. Durand está releyendo "Ben and Me". Es un librito alegre y maravilloso que recomiendo mucho. Lo leí por primera vez cuando era un estudiante de primaria y lo obtuve en la Feria del Libro Scholastic (que está por venir, por cierto). Es un libro divertido para todas las edades.
 
 

 

Kevin Durand lo invita a una reunión de Zoom programada.
Tema: Chat principal
Hora: 20 de octubre de 2020 05:30 p.m. hora central (EE. UU. Y Canadá)
ID de la reunión: 963 4125 5938
Código de acceso: 743755
10/16/2020
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
Well, we've made it one quarter of the way through this very strange and challenging year.  I know most folks are particularly interested in grades, so I'll start off there.  All report cards will be available in the Home Access Center (HAC).  Parents/Guardians received the log in information back in September, and students have had access all along.  If for some reason you can put your hands on your log in information, please contact the front office (preferably by email), and the secretaries will be able to send you the log in info.  Those folks are Mr. Broyles (rbroyles@lisaacademy.org), Ms. Cullers (acullers@lisaacademy.org), and Ms. K. Miller (miller@lisaacademy.org).
 
With the first quarter sliding into the rearview mirror, the second quarter provides fresh opportunities to learn, to work hard, and to be successful.  I know I have said this before, but it bears repeating - I am very, very grateful for all of the adults in our students lives who are working so hard to make this school year work for our virtual and on-site students.  I know that new challenges arise almost daily, and it can feel very overwhelming.  And when those things happen, nerves fray and there is always the temptation lurking in the background to give up.  Please remember that we will get through this, and that one more little encouragement to our students can mean the difference between success and not completing work and assignments.  We are working to make some reductions in the amount of work required of students, including essentially eliminating work outside of the classroom time (virtual or on-site).  I would like to mention some things that I have seen that work to improve student experiences during this time.
 
(1) Be online during the live sessions that teachers are doing.  Students who log in and work along with the teachers tend to do better than those who try to do it all by themselves.  In the event that sessions get missed, watching the recording is better than nothing, and contacting the teacher to ask for help is always encouraged.
(2) When online, whether virtual or on-site, stay focused.  It is so easy to want to open that youtube tab and let the mind wander than it is to stay on the task at hand.  We are using the Securly system to help to refocus and redirect students from wandering online when the live sessions are ongoing or when the teachers are working with students with chromebooks for either lectures or demonstrations or class assignments.
(3) Stay on top of things - I know that I begin to feel overwhelmed when I have put off things or thought, "I'll get to that later," and then "later" comes and other things are due and then it just builds.  One of my favorite books is "Ben and Me" - about Founding Father Ben Franklin and the little mouse that lived inside his hat (it's fiction, but it's fun).  But, in that book, one of Mr. Franklin's "words to live by" is quoted - Don't put off until tomorrow what can be done today.  It's hard to live by that, but it has definitely helped me to keep my own tasks in order.
 
So, essentially that amounts to (1) be present, (2) stay focused, and (3) stay on top of things.  All of those are more challenging during this year so far, but they really do help.
 
An update on a couple of things I've mentioned in previous Principal's Corners - beginning next week, those competition clubs whose sponsors have finished all of the appropriate preparations will allow virtual students to come to campus for the club time only.  So, for example, students who are virtual and in the Quiz Bowl club will be able to come to campus for Quiz Bowl.  However, don't come until contacted by the sponsor of the club.  Each of the sponsors will know when they have completed their tasks to help insure safety, and each sponsor will contact the members of the clubs directly.  We are continuing to work on ways to include virtual students in virtual socialization events.
 
Red Ribbon week is coming up, and there is more information about it in the newsletter, so please check those announcements.  The newsletter also has other important bits of information that will help everyone stay on top of events and upcoming activities.  It comes out every Friday, so please be on the lookout for it.
 
I'd like to conclude by saying thank you again to everyone who is working so hard this year - students, parents/guardians/grandparents, and teachers.  With everyone working together, we will get through this.  Let me remind everyone of the Principal Chat that takes place on Zoom on Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.  The information for the session is below.
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
Dr. Durand is re-reading "Ben and Me."  It is a lighthearted and wonderful little book that I recommend highly.  I first read it when I was an elementary student and I had gotten it at the Scholastic Book Fair (which is upcoming, by the way).  It's a fun book for all ages.
 
 
Kevin Durand is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Principal Chat
Time: Oct 20, 2020 05:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 963 4125 5938
Passcode: 743755
10/9/2020 - Espanol
 

Estimada familia LISA:

Las primeras nueve semanas casi han terminado, solo una semana más. Sé que el final de las 9 semanas trae algunos problemas para asegurarnos de que todo el trabajo esté hecho y los estudiantes estén al día antes de que cierren las calificaciones. Quiero agradecer a todos los que han trabajado tan diligentemente para que sus hijos participen virtualmente . Esta ha sido realmente una experiencia de aprendizaje para todos nosotros. Sé que valoro a nuestros profesores y el trabajo que hacen ahora más que nunca.

 

Sé que una de las luchas de este año ha sido mantener a los estudiantes concentrados y comprometidos (y en algunos casos, lograr que se involucren). Sé por observación que los estudiantes virtuales que participan en sesiones en vivo e interactúan con sus profesores son los que están disfrutando de la mayor cantidad de éxito. No es sorprendente que esto se haya mantenido así, ya sea en línea o en persona; a partir de mis muchos años de experiencia, está claro que los estudiantes que están trabajando con sus maestros, están presentes e interactuando son los que disfrutan del mayor éxito. Por lo tanto, supongo que no es de extrañar que ocurra lo mismo en este nuevo mundo en el que tantos estudiantes también son virtuales. Estoy muy agradecido con todos los que han abordado esta nueva situación de frente con nosotros.

 

Otra de las luchas que sé que experimentan muchos estudiantes virtuales es la falta de socialización con sus compañeros. Si bien tenemos clubes de competencia en funcionamiento, estamos buscando formas de tener otros clubes disponibles para los estudiantes que no están en ellos. Me gustaría pedirles, como un favor, que si alguno de ustedes tiene ideas para clubes que creen que su estudiante disfrutaría, por favor hágamelo saber por correo electrónico - durand@lisaacademy.org . Si bien las cosas no pueden ser "normales" en este momento, creo que podemos trabajar juntos para al menos mejorar las cosas.

 

Por último, me gustaria recordarles dos cosas. Primero, la próxima charla con el director será el martes (la información de Zoom se encuentra en la parte inferior de este rincón del director). Y, en segundo lugar, no puedo animar lo suficiente a la gente a leer, leer y leer. Sé que las noticias no siempre son la fuente de lectura más edificante, pero hay tantos libros y revistas tremendos e incluso  de ciencia ficcion que son interesantes, convincentes y amplían nuestra visión del mundo y de nosotros mismos. La herramienta más importante en la educación es la lectura.

Paz,
Dr. Durand

 

El Dr. Durand está comenzando la serie Hercule Poirot de misterios de Agatha Christie. El primero del set es "The Mysterious Affair at Styles".
10/9/2020
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
The first nine weeks is almost over - just one more week.  I know the end of a 9-weeks brings some scrambling to make sure all work is done and students are caught up before grading closes.  I want to thank everyone who has worked so diligently to have their kids involved virtually and on-site.  This has truly been a learning experience for us all.  I know that I value our teachers and the work they do even more now than I ever have before.
 
I know that one of the struggles of this year has been keeping students on-task and engaged (and in some cases, getting them engaged).  I know from observation that those virtual students who are logging in to live sessions and interacting with their teachers are the ones who are enjoying the greatest amount of success.  Not surprisingly, this has remained true whether online or on-site - from my many years of experience, it is been clear that the students who are working with their teachers, are present, and are interacting are those who enjoy the greatest success.  So, I suppose it is no surprise that the same is true in this new world where so many students are virtual as well.  I am very grateful to all who have tackled this new situation head-on with us.
 
Another of the struggles that I know many virtual students experience is the lack of socialization with their peers.  While we have competition clubs up and running, we are looking into ways to have other clubs available for students who are not in those.  I would like to ask, as a favor, that if any of you have ideas for clubs that you think your student would enjoy, please let me know by email - durand@lisaacademy.org.  While things can't be "normal" right now, I think we can work together to at least make things better.
 
Lastly, I'd like to make two reminders.  First, the next Principal Chat will be Tuesday (and the Zoom information is at the bottom of this Principal's Corner).  And, second, I can't encourage people enough to read, read, read.  I know the news isn't always the most uplifting source of reading, but there are so many tremendous books and magazines and even fan fiction out there that are interesting, compelling, and broaden our views of the world and ourselves.  The most important tool in education is reading.  
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
Dr. Durand is starting the Hercule Poirot series of Agatha Christie mysteries.  The first in the set is "The Mysterious Affair at Styles."
 
 
Kevin Durand is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Principal Chat
Time: Oct 13, 2020 05:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 976 9286 2931
Passcode: 517041
10/2/2020
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
I would like to thank everyone who took time out of their schedule on a Saturday to attend Parent Teacher Conferences.  Even though it was completely virtual, it was good to see so many people engaged with teachers building the teamwork required to make education work in this strange school year.  I am grateful for the dedication of parents and teachers!
 
The next few weeks are the last ones of the first quarter.  Grades will come out after October 19th.  I know that this year has been full of challenges.  I'd like to offer a couple of reminders for helping to make it a successful one in spite of the challenges.
 
- For virtual students - please make sure to log in for the live discussions each day.  Teachers are also available during office hours, and during the class periods after the live teaching has concluded to answer questions through Schoology Conferences.  Please, if students are having difficulties of any sort, reach out to the teacher and they will do everything in their power to help.  
 
- For all students - please make sure to keep up to date on assignments.  We realize that access is sometimes an issue, so we have asked teachers to leave assignments open for students to work on them, without a late penalty.  From my own educational experience, I remember that sometimes I would fall behind and begin to feel overwhelmed, like the mountain was just too big to climb.  Reach out to your teacher.  They can and will help.  In fact, I have spoken with nearly all of our teachers during PTC and in the days following, and the one thing that they have said over and over again is that they want to help.  So, again, whether virtual or on-site, please reach out to your teacher if you are having any difficulties, and they will work with you!
 
I would also like to remind everyone of my weekly Principal Chat on Zoom.  We generally do them on Tuesdays, but in the upcoming week, it will be on Wednesday due to another meeting commitment.  I've included the information to log into the Zoom below.  I am happy to answer questions, and if there are questions for which I do not know the answer, I will find one.
 
Lastly for this week, I would like to introduce Ms. Refia Celik.  She will be the counselor for all of our 8th grade students.  As you may know, we help students develop Student Success Plans every year, and then we help them track their progress as they go through high school.  We are using School Links to provide information to students on everything ranging from personal career interests to preparing for college or university.  Through keeping up with records and envisioning the future and broadening horizons for students, we aim to make as many post-secondary educational and career options available as possible.  Ms. Celik will be reaching out to all of our 8th grade students and parents about virtual meetings that will begin taking place very shortly. 
 
Again, thank you for all that you do to help make LISA Academy the premier choice for students who want to learn, grow, and succeed.  And, I will point out again one of my nearly weekly suggestions - the best way to become truly educated is to read, read, read.  I cannot stress enough how important reading is to broadening horizons and envisioning and preparing for the future.
 
Please stay safe and keep reading.
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand and Mr. Dilber
Dr. Durand is reading "Caste."  I confess I had to take a brief break from it last week to read something a bit lighter, but it is a phenomenal book.
 
 
Topic: Principal Chat
Time: Oct 7, 2020 05:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 995 9100 5774
Passcode: 635931
 
 
9/25/2020
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
We've made it half way through the first nine weeks - Progress Reports are available on Schoology.  I wanted to take a brief moment to say thank you again to all the parents, guardians, staff, faculty, students, admin, and friends of LISA who have worked so hard to make this year workable.  Things aren't perfect, and we are always looking to improve, but without many hands doing so much work, our students would suffer, and I am deeply thankful for everyone who has been working so hard!
 
I want to correct something from last week's Principal's Corner.  I had said that Interim Progress Reports would be available on HAC.  I misspoke - or mistyped.  At any rate, any confusion is my fault, and I apologize.  Interim Progress Reports are available on Schoology.
 
As we are moving into the second half of the first nine weeks, I suspect folks are feeling the strain of all of the competing responsibilities.  I know we've said it before, but this is truly a challenging year.  At the same time, I am really proud of our teachers and parents and guardians working so well together - there are always bumps, but together we will continue to work to provide the very best for our kids.
 
Next week, I will be hosting a Zoom session for parents/guardians to discuss questions and concerns that may have arisen.  Sometimes, it's just better and more effective to talk (even virtually) than to read emails or newsletters.  The Zoom info is below.
 
Have a great weekend, and I hope Parent/Teacher Conferences tomorrow go really well for everyone!
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
Dr. Durand is reading "The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley"
 
Kevin Durand is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Chat with Dr. Durand
Time: Sep 29, 2020 05:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 979 1850 7718
Passcode: 880017
9/18/2020
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
We're rounding out the fourth week of school, and there are a couple of very important observations that I would like to share.
 
NWEA testing - as I'm sure you know, we've been doing NWEA testing this week.  This is a critical snapshot of how your student is doing, the concepts that they have mastered, and the material with which they are struggling.  One of the biggest difficulties, though, has been perseverance.  What I mean is this - there have been a couple of technical problems that our Virtual students have encountered with the NWEA website.  However, these have generally been quickly resolved.  However, if students give up after only one or two tries because they have encountered an obstacle, then they end up not completing this.  Please, please encourage your students to hang in there and never give up.  I have personally observed all of our Virtual teachers during testing and they are working really hard to help students overcome difficulties.  This brings me to the next observation...
 
We all know that this is a weird and strange new teaching and learning situation.  One of my children is home doing her college work online.  One of my children is going to school every day and doing her work at school.  I'm sure ours is not even remotely the most complicated situation - juggling jobs, school, family.  I am truly in awe of the commitment and the work that our parents are doing right now.  And, I know that there must be times when it feels all too much.  Obviously, our students feel that, too.  Students can reach out to our counselors and their teachers any time about concerns they have or feelings of being overwhelmed, and they will get help.
 
Some reminders - Virtual students need to show up for their regularly scheduled classes at the time they are scheduled.  Teachers are doing Schoology Conferences and, while there are recordings and students can do catch up work, it is far better for them to see the information, hear the information, and be able to interact with the teacher during the regularly scheduled class period.  If students don't show up for class time, they are risking being less successful.  I've noticed already that the students who are on the Conferences and working with the teacher during the assigned time are not falling behind, but those who aren't showing up to their Conferences sessions seem to be struggling more.  While all of the information is posted, it is so much easier to master it if one hears it, sees it, reads it, and interacts with the teacher about it.
 
Progress reports will be going out next week - they will be available through the Home Access Center.  Information regarding accessing HAC was sent out almost three weeks ago by Mr. Dilber.  If for some reason you do not have access to HAC, please contact the front office of either building and they can help you get your info to log in.
 
Oh, I should make one other comment about Schoology.  Our teachers monitor the student activity, and we have seen some students log in for just a minute or two for the day.  Attendance for Virtual students will be taken based on showing up to the Virtual Conferences for their classes OR by completing their work for the day.  We will be contacting parents/guardians of those students who are logging in, but not completing work.  Thank you.
 
As always, keep those kids reading!  
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
 
Dr. Durand is reading "Caste" at the recommendation of Ms. Baroni.  It's a brilliant book so far.
 
9/11/2020
 
Dear LISA Family
 
The third week of school ends on a somber note as we remember the tragedy of 9/11 nineteen years later.  It's an event that has shaped so much of our students' world. It's an occasion that has given me pause today as I think about all of the factors that have such a profound effect on their lives but yet is outside of their understanding.  After all, they were all born so very long after that fateful day.  Folks of our age (early 20s and well beyond) know a lot about how that day has shaped our lives ever since.  And, the words of William Faulkner in Requiem for a Nun, "The past is never dead. It's not even past" resonate on days like today - where memories spring up, sometimes unexpectedly.
 
I think that there is great wisdom in Faulkner, and perhaps in the understanding that so much of our students' lives is not only beyond their control, it is often even beyond their knowledge.  It is part of why I and so many others have felt called to education - to help others understand the world around them, to make sense of the wonders of the universe, to grapple with complex problems, and to carve out a niche in the world where a difference can be made.  This is part of the education that I see LISA providing to young minds that are only just beginning to have an understanding of their place in the world.  And, this is why I am proud to have been a part of the LISA family for over a decade.
 
This Principal's Corner is a little light on announcements and the like this week - there are several in the weekly newsletter.  I wanted to take this moment to reflect on education and how every one of us can help to make our children's lives fuller.  For me, even though my my formal studies were mainly in mathematics and later philosophy, my true education began with being encouraged to read.  I will never forget my second grade teacher, Ms. Wilson.  She was tough and she had high standards, and one day she was very blunt with me and with my parents about me not living up to my potential.  My parents backed her all the way, and they and Ms. Wilson challenged me to read 20 books by the end of the year.  This was in early October of that school year.  And, they didn't do it just once.  It was weekly and sometimes daily.  And I thought, at times, "why won't they just let me do what I want?"  But, that wasn't Ms. Wilson's way.  She held me up to the standard that she knew I could meet, and she didn't waver.  Sure enough, by the end of December, I had not only gotten with the program.  And by Spring Break, the librarian knew when she heard my footsteps that I was coming for another book.  Some of them I read were truly boring.  But so many of them opened up worlds that I never dreamed had existed, and opened my mind to new horizons.  My fifth grade teacher, Ms. Hale, was just the same in expecting us to read and to explore.  Those two teachers are, as much as anybody else, why I am where I am today. 
 
I said all that to say this - there will be times when students grumble and don't really like the work that is before them.  There are times when they will much rather do anything than that math assignment or that English reading.  But, I am reminded of Ms. Wilson and Ms. Hale when I see teachers working with parents and students, holding up high expectations and not being satisfied with less than sufficient work.  Those sorts of teachers change lives.  I know, because my life was changed by teachers who cared.
 
The other lesson I learned early on from teachers and the adults in my world was that reading was the doorway to my future, and that the more I read, the better and brighter that future could be.  So, let me encourage everyone to read, read, read.  Students, parents, grandparents, step-parents, aunts, uncles, teachers, administrators - everyone grows through reading, and it's the quickest way to an education that I know of.  So, thank you all for working with your children and with your children's teachers.  Thank you for supporting the teachers in holding high expectations.  And thank you for reading with them, or having them read to you, at every opportunity.
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
 
Dr. Durand is reading "Death Masks" by Jim Butcher.  I'll be honest - it's a fluff read, but not every book has to be great literature - sometimes, they are just a fun ride.   
9/4/2020
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
Well, we've made it to the end of Week 2.  I know there have been some bumps along the way, but I very much appreciate the ways everyone is pulling together and patiently and diligently working to solve problems.  I've gotten to visit some classrooms this week, and I've been really impressed with how our virtual students are engaging with their teachers and learning. We are going to be putting together some incentives to reward students for being fully active with their classes going forward very soon.  Keep encouraging them.  And, by way of reminder, the IT department phone number is 501-295-9464 and can be found on the front page of the website - https://tinyurl.com/yaodg5g7
 
One change that should make things smoother is that we are migrating all of our live sessions from Zoom to the Conferences feature in Schoology.  The vast majority of our teachers have been using Conferences already, and now that we have completely trialed it, we will be using it universally within West Middle.  Also, chromebook cameras should be enabled for all students.  If your student is still having difficulty with it, make sure that they power it off and then turn it back on so that it can receive the updates to the permissions.  If trouble continues, please contact our IT folks at the number above.
 
Next week will see the beginning of our NWEA MAP testing.  The Northwest Evaluation Association Measures of Academic Progress is one of the very important tools that we use to individualize education at LISA Academy.  We have been using it for at least thirteen years and it is one of the best ways to get an understanding of where each student is academically in several disciplines (Math, Reading, Science), designing student achievement and growth goals, and measuring how students are growing over the course of a year (and even more).  Please encourage your student to do their very best.  This will be a different experience since so many students are virtual this year, but NWEA has come up with solutions to make online testing efficient.  Students should be in regular contact with their teachers about the test.  We will begin with Science testing on Thursday and Friday of next week (9/10 and 9/11).
 
Also, beginning August 31 (so, retro-dated to Monday of this week), ALL LISA students currently enrolled have the opportunity to eat breakfast and lunch at no cost on a daily basis until the end of the fall semester.  This is regardless of their Free/Reduced/Paid meal status.  Additionally, we encourage all parents to fill out the free/reduced meal application (regardless of whether or not you think you qualify) at http://ezmealapp.com/. There are several waivers and scholarship opportunities for students who qualify.  
 
We've come to to our first long weekend of the year.  Have a great Labor Day weekend and remember to be safe.  Masks on!  And, again, thank you for the privilege of working with you to provide your students all of the educational opportunities possible.
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand and Mr. Dilber
Dr. Durand is reading "The Book of Joy" by Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the 14th Dalai Lama
 
 
 
 
8/28/2020
 
Dear LISA Families,
 
We have come to the end of the first week of school, and even though we knew this year would be like no other we've had before, I am reasonably sure that back in July, no one had "First Week Hurricane/Tropical Storm" on their set of expectations.  So, that's the way to start off the year in a memorable way.  As if we didn't have enough already!
 
So, as we've come to the end of the week, I wanted to reflect on a couple of things.  We have had obstacles - getting used to a new form of education, getting used to new social and classroom practices, navigating online platforms.  And, while there have been some stumbles along the way, I am so grateful for the diligence, persistence, and patience of our parents, staff, and students.  It is this kind of resiliency that makes LISA Academy a great choice for educating the next generation of students.  
 
I took a walk through the building this morning and visited some online classes and some in-person classes, and students and teachers were engaged in the task at hand - learning.  I watched as some of veteran teachers and new teachers alike guided students in doing math, English, science, and art.  And, I'm looking forward to seeing all of the great things we will do together this year.
 
We would like to make sure everyone has all of the resources that they need going forward.  We were planning for a chromebook pick-up day on Friday, August 28th, but Tropical Storm Laura had other ideas.  As soon as that is rescheduled, we will send out a text and email to all parents/guardians with the new details.
 
If anyone is still having technical difficulties (and I know that they pop up from time to time, even when you think everything is great), the numbers for our Technical Support are on the website, but they are here as well.  
 
         IT Support During School Hours: 501-295-9464
 
Please make sure to check the website and social media regularly for updates, especially if there is the possibility of inclement weather. 
 
I'd like to thank everyone who helped get this school year off the ground.  I hope everyone has a healthy and productive school year.  Remember, Mr. Dilber and Dr. Durand are always happy to help with questions and concerns.  I would also direct folks to the Contact Us page on the website for links to all of the staff here at LISA West Middle.  The website is also the one-stop shop for links to student log ins, the bell schedule, upcoming events, and district news.
 
Thank you for giving us the privilege of working with you and with your children this year.  We will strive to make every educational opportunity available to them. 
 
Dr. Durand will be hosting a chat with parents/guardians on Wednesday at 5:00 p.m.  The Zoom information is below.
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand & Mr. Dilber
 
Topic: Chat with Dr. Durand
Time: Sep 2, 2020 05:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 929 5612 1717
Passcode: 104935
 
 
Dear Parents,
 
Please see the message below from District about Hurricane Laura.
 

Thursday, August 27, 2020

With severe weather from hurricane Laura expected to impact Central Arkansas Thursday afternoon, LISA Academy has made the decision to dismiss schools early in Central Arkansas.  On Thursday, August 27th, all LISA Academy schools in Central Arkansas will dismiss at 1:00 pm.  The District office will close at 2:00 pm.  There will be no after school programs or activities.  No decision has yet been made regarding school for Friday, August 28th.  Virtual students will follow the same dismissal as on-site students.

LISA Academy Springdale will operate on the normal schedule.

8/24/2020
 
Dear LISA Families,
 
So, we are off and running on a new school year!  I want to say thank you to everyone for all of your support this summer and as we have begun the school year, because without the parent/guardian part of our education equation, everything would be for naught.  I will be sending out the Principal's Corner in the newsletter each week, but I will be posting it here, as well.  And don't forget, if you have questions please don't hesitate to contact Mr. Dilber (idilber@lisaacademy.org) or Dr. Durand (durand@lisaacademy.org).  We know that the first week of school is always challenging, and this one, maybe more than any previous year, is definitely a challenge.  Please keep working with us to iron out any bugs that we encounter.  
 
This is a brief message this week, because there will be another added later.  But, I wanted to give all of you a one-stop shop for some important links.
 
1. Bell Schedule.  It can be found at this link - https://tinyurl.com/y5eozw5e
2. Student Schedules. You will need to log in to HAC (Home Access Center).  If you do not have your HAC login, please email Ms. Miller (miller@lisaacademy.org), Ms. Cullers (acullers@lisaacademy.org), or Mr. Broyles (rbroyles@lisaacademy.org) and they will send your information to you.
3. Drop-Off and Pick-up.  Today went pretty smoothly.  Just a couple of reminders.  6th grade students should be dropped behind the 6th grade academy.  7th and 8th grade students should be dropped of in front of the 7th/8th grade building.  Please find the map and directions at this link - https://tinyurl.com/yyxvwlj8
4. If you are having difficulty logging in or linking your student's Google Drive to Schoology, you can follow this checklist - https://tinyurl.com/y5qgseqt
 
Stay tuned for Updates
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand and Mr. Dilber
8/18/2020
 
Dear LISA Families,
 
I would like to thank you all for your commitment and strength during this challenging time.  So many of you are inspirations to me, and I appreciate you all.  We are very close to the opening of the 2020-21 school year, and I know that there are lots of anxieties and worries about the upcoming year.  I'd like to take a little time to try to alleviate those that I can.  However, let me begin by saying that I'm very excited for the school year to begin, and I know, whether on-site or virtual, it will be a challenging and rewarding year.
 
Many of our students will be learning virtually for the first semester and there are a couple of very important items for those students and their parents/guardians to know.  The first of these is that the pickup for Chromebooks for those who indicated that they would need one at home is THIS Thursday, August 20th, behind the 23 Corporate Hill building.  Take Executive Court from Markham street and follow it until you reach the large school building on your left.  Shirts (for those who have ordered them), math textbooks, and art supplies will be distributed there as well.
 
If for some reason you have not checked your student in yet, please do so.  The links for the Check In Documents is here: https://tinyurl.com/yy99cx6b
 
This year, we are using the Learning Management System "Schoology" to deliver course content for both on-site and virtual students.  There are a variety of features that are a part of Schoology, and I've attached a powerpoint that goes through the various features that students and parents/guardians will need for the first part of the school year.  As we get further into the year, updated presentations will be made available.  The presentation can be found at this link: https://tinyurl.com/yyuu42rz
 
To help parents/guardians/students get back into the swing of the new year, and to answer questions about the new Schoology learning management system, I will be hosting three Zoom sessions this week.  The information for joining them is at the bottom of this Principal's Corner.
 
I would also like to introduce Mr. Ismail Dilber.  He will be the Principal of the 7th and 8th grade building, and he and I will work very closely together throughout the year to provide the best educational environment for all students of LISA West Middle School.  Mr. Dilber comes to us from LISA West High where he was the Dean of Academics last year.  He and I worked together two years ago when I was in the High School, and I can't wait for us to keep working together!  His email is idilber@lisaacademy.org.  Also, we will have a new Dean of Students in the 6th Grade Academy.  Ms. Alexandria Boyd joins us from Little Rock Preparatory Academy this year, and we all very much look forward to working with her.  Her email is aboyd@lisaacademy.org.  Ms. French will be in the 7th and 8th grade building, reprising her role as Dean of Students.  Her email is bfrench@lisaacademy.org
 
Please make sure to check the website and social media regularly for updates.  Thanks you.
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
 
This week's virtual meetings with me will be Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.  Please make plans to attend one, but keep in mind that Zoom does limit our slots, so we ask that you plan to attend only one. The ZOOM info is below:
 
Thursday, August 20 - 2:00 p.m.
https://tinyurl.com/y2ts2l2s
Meeting ID: 937 6177 9908
Passcode: 209058
 
Thursday, August 20 - 6:00 p.m.
Meeting ID: 939 0331 8468
Passcode: 211515
 
Friday, August 21 - 3:00 p.m.
Meeting ID: 943 8282 0329
Passcode: 013578
 
Saturday, August 22 - 6:00 p.m.
Meeting ID: 954 3205 8649
Passcode: 952073
 
 
1/8/2021
 
Dear LISA Family,
 
We've gotten off to a pretty good start in the new year and I'm really happy to see all of the work being done by students!  These next 50 days are probably the most important days of the school year.  Let's really work hard to make sure our students are successful!
 
This is time of year the that we start looking toward the enrollment lottery.  We are currently taking applications for the 2021-2022 School year.  Our middle school students have continued to excel in competitions (virtual, though they may be).  And, as you know, our teachers are working tirelessly to make education this year work for all of our students, virtual and on-site.  This has been the most challenging year I've ever encountered in over two decades in education, but I have been inspired by the number of people - parents, students, staff - who have gone the extra mile to be adaptable and keep children's learning the priority.  And, at LISA, that is always the priority.
 
I've included a link to a promotional video for the West Middle School below.  Please feel free to share it out with any of your friends, coworkers, neighbors, and folks you just happen to meet.  It is through your word of mouth that we get the vast majority of the student applications that we receive each year.  Please make sure to help us out again this year.  Spread the word about LISA Academy.  Spread the video.  Our website has the 2021-2022 Application link live on it.  Thank you for all that you do to make LISA Academy the best school in Central Arkansas!
 
Video - The video is linked in the newsletter and on our website under the "About Us" tab.  It is the "LISA Academy West Virtual Open House" video.
Application link - https://apply.lisaacademy.org/login
 
It is also the time of year when we start to see the state testing on the horizon.  We will be continuing to conduct the NWEA math, reading, and science tests next week, and the first of the ACT Aspire Interim tests will take place during the first week in February.  I should mention here that the state is requiring that all state tests (ACT Aspire Interim and Summative) be taken on-site by all students.  Arrangements are being made to test students in shifts so that proper disinfecting can take place and all CDC and Arkansas Department of Health guidelines can be followed.
 
Starting on Monday (January 11th), we will be sending chromebooks and chargers home with our on-site students.  They will be expected to bring their chromebook to school each day and to charge it at home in the evening. It is critical that everyone receiving a chromebook on Monday sign the Chromebook Agreement form as soon as possible.  It is here - https://forms.gle/r24nVH7CZMW3BdeY7
 
The full details of the Chromebook policy can be found here -  https://tinyurl.com/y56waovo .
 
I know that Virtual education has unique obstacles.  I wanted to remind everyone of a resource that Ms. Wright from our West Elementary campus has compiled.  It has lots of wonderful Tips and Tricks for Virtual Engagement to help students get the very most out of learning in the virtual environment.  That link is here - https://tinyurl.com/y5c9bz85
 
Again, thank you so much for making LISA Academy West Middle School your choice for your student's education.  We are honored and privileged to have you and your child as part of the LISA Family.
 
Peace,
Dr. Durand
Dr. Durand is reading "The Plot to Save Socrates" by Paul Levinson
8/1/2021 - Espanol
 
Estimada familia LISA:
 
¡Hemos tenido un buen comienzo en el nuevo año y estoy muy feliz de ver todo el trabajo realizado por los estudiantes! Estos próximos 50 días son probablemente los días más importantes del año escolar. ¡Trabajemos realmente duro para asegurarnos de que nuestros estudiantes tengan éxito!
 
Esta es la época del año en la que empezamos a mirar hacia la lotería de inscripción. Actualmente estamos aceptando solicitudes para el año escolar 2021-2022. Nuestros estudiantes de secundaria han continuado sobresaliendo en competencias (virtuales, aunque pueden serlo). Y, como saben, nuestros maestros están trabajando incansablemente para que la educación de este año funcione para todos nuestros estudiantes, tanto virtuales como presenciales. Este ha sido el año más desafiante que he encontrado en más de dos décadas en educación, pero me ha inspirado la cantidad de personas - padres, estudiantes, personal - que han hecho un esfuerzo adicional para adaptarse y mantener el aprendizaje de los niños prioridad. Y, en LISA, esa es siempre la prioridad.
 
Incluí un enlace a un video promocional de West Middle School a continuación. No dude en compartirlo con cualquiera de sus amigos, compañeros de trabajo, vecinos y personas que acaba de conocer. Es a través de su boca a boca que obtenemos la gran mayoría de las solicitudes de estudiantes que recibimos cada año. Asegúrate de ayudarnos de nuevo este año. Haga correr la voz sobre LISA Academy. Difunde el video. Nuestro sitio web tiene el enlace de la aplicación 2021-2022 en vivo. ¡Gracias por todo lo que hacen para que LISA Academy sea la mejor escuela de Central Arkansas!
 
Video: el video está vinculado en el boletín y en nuestro sitio web en la pestaña "Acerca de nosotros". Es el video de "Casa Abierta Virtual de LISA Academy West".
Enlace de aplicación: https://apply.lisaacademy.org/login
 
También es la época del año en que comenzamos a ver las pruebas estatales en el horizonte. Continuaremos realizando las pruebas de matemáticas, lectura y ciencias de la NWEA la próxima semana, y la primera de las pruebas ACT Aspire Interim se llevará a cabo durante la primera semana de febrero. Debo mencionar aquí que el estado requiere que todos los estudiantes tomen en el lugar todos los exámenes estatales (ACT Aspire Interim y Summative). Se están haciendo arreglos para evaluar a los estudiantes en turnos para que se pueda realizar una desinfección adecuada y se puedan seguir todas las pautas de los CDC y del Departamento de Salud de Arkansas.
 
A partir del lunes (11 de enero), enviaremos Chromebooks y cargadores a casa con nuestros estudiantes en el sitio. Se espera que traigan su Chromebook a la escuela todos los días y lo carguen en casa por la noche. Es fundamental que todos los que reciban una Chromebook el lunes firmen el formulario de Acuerdo de Chromebook lo antes posible. Está aquí: https://forms.gle/r24nVH7CZMW3BdeY7
 
Los detalles completos de la política de Chromebook se pueden encontrar aquí: https://tinyurl.com/y56waovo .
 
Sé que la educación virtual tiene obstáculos únicos. Quería recordarles a todos un recurso que la Sra. Wright de nuestro campus de West Elementary ha recopilado. Tiene muchos consejos y trucos maravillosos para la participación virtual para ayudar a los estudiantes a aprovechar al máximo el aprendizaje en el entorno virtual. Ese enlace está aquí: https://tinyurl.com/y5c9bz85
 
Nuevamente, muchas gracias por hacer de LISA Academy West Middle School su elección para la educación de su estudiante. Nos sentimos honrados y privilegiados de tenerlos a usted y a su hijo como parte de la familia LISA.
 
Paz,
Dr. Durand

 

El Dr. Durand está leyendo "El complot para salvar a Sócrates" de Paul Levinson