The Portland Tribune has an update on Access Academy's possible new locations. Access may move to King or another school, since classroom space is tight at Sabin and there's long been little room for either program to grow. Here's a link to the piece.
I hope everyone is having a safe and happy Winter Break. -Amy
Friday, December 28, 2012
Monday, December 17, 2012
Monday, November 26, 2012
Nominations due TODAY - Nov. 26
TAG Nominations and testing
Reminder - TAG nominations are due November 26th. Pick up the nomination form (Identification Process Form) in the office or from the TAG Bulletin Board or here (form posted in several languages under "IDPF"). Alameda's TAG testing is scheduled for February. Contact Pam VanDerWolf at pvanderw@pps.net with any questions about nominations or testing.
Reminder - TAG nominations are due November 26th. Pick up the nomination form (Identification Process Form) in the office or from the TAG Bulletin Board or here (form posted in several languages under "IDPF"). Alameda's TAG testing is scheduled for February. Contact Pam VanDerWolf at pvanderw@pps.net with any questions about nominations or testing.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Friday, November 9, 2012
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Nomination Deadline & more
TAG Nominations and testing
TAG nominations are due November 26th. It helps staff to nominate your child early as teachers have data and work samples to collect for each of their nominated students. Pick up the nomination form (Identification Process Form) in the office or from the TAG Bulletin Board or here (form posted in several languages under "IDPF"). Alameda's TAG testing is scheduled for February. Contact Pam VanDerWolf at pvanderw@pps.net with any questions about nominations or testing.
Many of you have questions about TAG ''lingo" and terms like 'scaffolded instruction.' The PPS TAG page has a ton of resources that can help you understand these terms & how teachers approach TAG within PPS. It can be tricky to navigate the site if you don't know exactly what you're looking for, but this information is useful if you need to discuss curriculum challenge & other issues with teachers & TAG coordinators. Here's a good overview of the differentiation strategies teachers can use (Click on 'Ideas for Highly Capable Learners' on the right).
Please spread the word about the TAG Parent Advisory Council to other parents who are interested in PPS TAG issues. The TAGAC reviews PPS talented & gifted services, represents TAG families from all schools and building types, and makes recommendations. Our first meeting of the school year is Nov. 13, and we would welcome more members (especially representing High School TAG students). We meet six times a year at Rice Elementary near Rose City Park. (Contact me at amasondoan@gmail.com for more information). Thanks! -Amy
TAG nominations are due November 26th. It helps staff to nominate your child early as teachers have data and work samples to collect for each of their nominated students. Pick up the nomination form (Identification Process Form) in the office or from the TAG Bulletin Board or here (form posted in several languages under "IDPF"). Alameda's TAG testing is scheduled for February. Contact Pam VanDerWolf at pvanderw@pps.net with any questions about nominations or testing.
Many of you have questions about TAG ''lingo" and terms like 'scaffolded instruction.' The PPS TAG page has a ton of resources that can help you understand these terms & how teachers approach TAG within PPS. It can be tricky to navigate the site if you don't know exactly what you're looking for, but this information is useful if you need to discuss curriculum challenge & other issues with teachers & TAG coordinators. Here's a good overview of the differentiation strategies teachers can use (Click on 'Ideas for Highly Capable Learners' on the right).
Please spread the word about the TAG Parent Advisory Council to other parents who are interested in PPS TAG issues. The TAGAC reviews PPS talented & gifted services, represents TAG families from all schools and building types, and makes recommendations. Our first meeting of the school year is Nov. 13, and we would welcome more members (especially representing High School TAG students). We meet six times a year at Rice Elementary near Rose City Park. (Contact me at amasondoan@gmail.com for more information). Thanks! -Amy
Friday, October 19, 2012
Powerpoint slides from Fall TAG parent meeting
Here's a recap of Tuesday's very productive meeting. Thanks for attending despite the debate & Yankees game! And I hope this will be useful to those of you who couldn't make it:
33 parents attended. Ms. VanDerWolf walked the group through TAG identification, classroom techniques used in PPS to address rate & level of learning, and district resources. Click here to see the presentation . This year, Alameda TAG professional development will focus on higher-level questioning in the classroom. Mr. Lurie pointed out that PPS TAG is very different from the 'pull-out' MGM, GATE or other programs many of us may have participated in as kids. TAG addresses students' need for an appropriate rate & level of instruction in the classroom.
After her presentation, 5th grade teacher Kiya Masunaga walked us through some real-classroom examples of the TAG teaching techniques used at Alameda. This was very useful; I hope to have those slides available soon.
OATAG board member Brenda Ray Scott recapped the TAG 101 meeting and shared how Llewellyn School uses the TAG budget to schedule free late-start classes on everything from graphic novels to the 2012 election. Although administrators have final say on the TAG budget, the group shared ideas and a desire to use more of the budget going forward. Alameda & PPS are currently working on this issue. Here is information on the percentage of TAG budgets spent at all PPS schools last fiscal year.
During Q&A, many parents asked for information about the new Bridges math curriculum. Some parents said they find it is richer and more hands-on, but point out that it is still primarily grade level work. The group talked over possibilities for supplementing math (and other) curricula. Parents expressed interest in reviving Challenge Math or adding more math enrichment options. Virginia LaForte has been working with Saturday Academy, which has a new math program. Please contact Virginia if you are interested in helping to set this up.
Mr. Lurie emphasized that it is important to contact your child's teacher, him, or Ms. VanDerWolf if you feel his or her rate/level are not being met in the classroom. Some parents said their experiences in asking for more advanced work have been inconsistent; they don't feel all teachers always have the time for or interest in this. Another parent shared a positive recent experience with crafting an individual TAG plan. Mr. Lurie stressed that parents are always free to request a conference and/or an individual TAG plan to make sure children are learning at an appropriate rate & level. The first point of contact is your child's teacher, and Ms. VanDerWolf and Mr. Lurie can help with the process.
I'll add more detail soon, but wanted to answer some of the many questions I've gotten via email since the meeting! I've added some more links at right - check out the Amazon TAG book list curated by OATAG. There are books on school, social & emotional issues.
33 parents attended. Ms. VanDerWolf walked the group through TAG identification, classroom techniques used in PPS to address rate & level of learning, and district resources. Click here to see the presentation . This year, Alameda TAG professional development will focus on higher-level questioning in the classroom. Mr. Lurie pointed out that PPS TAG is very different from the 'pull-out' MGM, GATE or other programs many of us may have participated in as kids. TAG addresses students' need for an appropriate rate & level of instruction in the classroom.
After her presentation, 5th grade teacher Kiya Masunaga walked us through some real-classroom examples of the TAG teaching techniques used at Alameda. This was very useful; I hope to have those slides available soon.
OATAG board member Brenda Ray Scott recapped the TAG 101 meeting and shared how Llewellyn School uses the TAG budget to schedule free late-start classes on everything from graphic novels to the 2012 election. Although administrators have final say on the TAG budget, the group shared ideas and a desire to use more of the budget going forward. Alameda & PPS are currently working on this issue. Here is information on the percentage of TAG budgets spent at all PPS schools last fiscal year.
During Q&A, many parents asked for information about the new Bridges math curriculum. Some parents said they find it is richer and more hands-on, but point out that it is still primarily grade level work. The group talked over possibilities for supplementing math (and other) curricula. Parents expressed interest in reviving Challenge Math or adding more math enrichment options. Virginia LaForte has been working with Saturday Academy, which has a new math program. Please contact Virginia if you are interested in helping to set this up.
Mr. Lurie emphasized that it is important to contact your child's teacher, him, or Ms. VanDerWolf if you feel his or her rate/level are not being met in the classroom. Some parents said their experiences in asking for more advanced work have been inconsistent; they don't feel all teachers always have the time for or interest in this. Another parent shared a positive recent experience with crafting an individual TAG plan. Mr. Lurie stressed that parents are always free to request a conference and/or an individual TAG plan to make sure children are learning at an appropriate rate & level. The first point of contact is your child's teacher, and Ms. VanDerWolf and Mr. Lurie can help with the process.
I'll add more detail soon, but wanted to answer some of the many questions I've gotten via email since the meeting! I've added some more links at right - check out the Amazon TAG book list curated by OATAG. There are books on school, social & emotional issues.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Info. promised during last night's meeting
Thanks so much to those of you who attended last night's TAG meeting. We had a strong turnout and a productive discussion on identification, classroom differentiation, issues with the Bridges math curriculum, the TAG budget, individual TAG plans and more. I'll post a full recap of the meeting, with slides, as soon as possible.
In the meantime - please contact Virginia LaForte (vlaforte@me.com) if you are interested in attending or helping set up the Saturday Academy late-start a.m. math enrichment classes we discussed at length last night. It sounds like there is plenty of interest.
Please take the confidential Alameda TAG Survey by Oct. 22 so that we can share your feedback with the school and district.
As OATAG board member Brenda Ray Scott mentioned during her presentation, the Ore. Association for TAG conference is this weekend at Century High in Hillsboro. Click here for more info. The theme is "Learning from our Children." This is a fine opportunity to learn more about talented & gifted news and connect with experts, educators and parents from around the state.
More soon...
In the meantime - please contact Virginia LaForte (vlaforte@me.com) if you are interested in attending or helping set up the Saturday Academy late-start a.m. math enrichment classes we discussed at length last night. It sounds like there is plenty of interest.
Please take the confidential Alameda TAG Survey by Oct. 22 so that we can share your feedback with the school and district.
As OATAG board member Brenda Ray Scott mentioned during her presentation, the Ore. Association for TAG conference is this weekend at Century High in Hillsboro. Click here for more info. The theme is "Learning from our Children." This is a fine opportunity to learn more about talented & gifted news and connect with experts, educators and parents from around the state.
More soon...
Monday, October 15, 2012
TAG meeting tomorrow night!
Please attend the Alameda TAG parent meeting this Tuesday, Oct. 16 at 6:30p. in the cafeteria. Alameda teacher Kiya Masunaga, who will be closely involved in TAG professional development this year, will explain classroom differentiation and there will be plenty of time to ask questions.
Also, I've invited Brenda Ray Scott, chair of the TAG parent advisory council, to update the group on districtwide TAG news.
Hope to see you there! Questions? Please email me at amasondoan@gmail.com.
Also, I've invited Brenda Ray Scott, chair of the TAG parent advisory council, to update the group on districtwide TAG news.
Hope to see you there! Questions? Please email me at amasondoan@gmail.com.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Alameda TAG Budget
Hi all,
Here are the Alameda school TAG budgets, past and projected for this school year:
2012-13
2011-12
2010-11
2009-10
2008-09
Last year, 86 percent of the money ($2,127) was returned to the PPS general fund because it wasn't spent.
The year before, 56 percent was returned.
(The 'remaining budget percent' on the right shows what was forfeited after 6/30 each year.)
This year, the TAG budget is $2,504. Any ideas on where you'd like the money to go? Challenge Math? Deeper TAG professional development for teachers? Small ability-based groups to help ease the pressure of large classes? Administrators have final say on the budget, but your ideas are important.
If you would like to share input on where the money can be spent in the future please email Pam and Raddy and also attend the meeting Tues. at 6:30p. in the cafeteria - thanks!
Here are the Alameda school TAG budgets, past and projected for this school year:
2012-13
2011-12
2010-11
2009-10
2008-09
Last year, 86 percent of the money ($2,127) was returned to the PPS general fund because it wasn't spent.
The year before, 56 percent was returned.
(The 'remaining budget percent' on the right shows what was forfeited after 6/30 each year.)
This year, the TAG budget is $2,504. Any ideas on where you'd like the money to go? Challenge Math? Deeper TAG professional development for teachers? Small ability-based groups to help ease the pressure of large classes? Administrators have final say on the budget, but your ideas are important.
If you would like to share input on where the money can be spent in the future please email Pam and Raddy and also attend the meeting Tues. at 6:30p. in the cafeteria - thanks!
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Alameda TAG meeting and TAG budget
Here's the latest -
-Alameda's fall TAG meeting is set for next Tues., Oct. 16 at 6:30p. in the cafeteria. We lobbied for a change in time due to the presidential debate, but unfortunately it's too late to change our meeting time.
But please set your DVR and attend if at all possible! It is so important to show PPS that TAG services are a priority. Alameda's TAG Coordinator will walk through examples of classroom differentiation and explain terms like "curriculum compacting," there will be plenty of time for Q&A, and we'll have a discussion on possible late-start classes. Here's an example of how another elementary school is using its TAG budget + group rates to schedule classes. These do not substitute for day-to-day classroom TAG services.
-Did you know there IS an Alameda TAG budget? Many parents do not.
It's modest -roughly $2,000/year a little more than $2,400 a year - but some PPS schools use the funds and/or parent volunteers to schedule additional learning opportunities. Testing is paid for out of a separate budget.
Two parents have negotiated great rates with Saturday Academy and we're working on scheduling some late-start morning enrichment this year.
I recently learned thatsome 86 percent of the Alameda TAG budget did not get used last school year so it was 'forfeited.' The previous year, 56 percent was unused. Unfortunately, it cannot be carried over to this year. And this year, much of the budget will be earmarked to pay a second TAG coordinator to handle administrative tasks. But the good news is we still have a small sum set aside for student enrichment.
I'm sure we can all think of 100 places to put every $1, but one thing we can probably agree on is that we should use the budget strategically, transparently and completely. Please come to the meeting, fill out the survey and share your opinion on how the TAG budget should be used - thanks!
- Thanks to the parent who sent me a link to this article from Education.com: "Gifted Programs: Luxuries or Necessities." It's good reading if you've ever struggled to explain the need for TAG services.
The fact is that rapid learners often share some distinct needs. Repeating lessons that they have mastered long ago can sap their enthusiasm for school, so a PPS teacher well-versed in TAG teaching techniques uses skills to keep kids engaged at the proper rate and level of learning. This is required under the Oregon TAG Mandate.
Although TAG can be a sensitive and divisive issue, and confidentiality is important, I'm a strong believer that sharing information can help. (What do you think? Feel free to comment below.)
Have a good week and I'll see you next Tues.!
-Alameda's fall TAG meeting is set for next Tues., Oct. 16 at 6:30p. in the cafeteria. We lobbied for a change in time due to the presidential debate, but unfortunately it's too late to change our meeting time.
But please set your DVR and attend if at all possible! It is so important to show PPS that TAG services are a priority. Alameda's TAG Coordinator will walk through examples of classroom differentiation and explain terms like "curriculum compacting," there will be plenty of time for Q&A, and we'll have a discussion on possible late-start classes. Here's an example of how another elementary school is using its TAG budget + group rates to schedule classes. These do not substitute for day-to-day classroom TAG services.
-Did you know there IS an Alameda TAG budget? Many parents do not.
It's modest -
Two parents have negotiated great rates with Saturday Academy and we're working on scheduling some late-start morning enrichment this year.
I recently learned that
I'm sure we can all think of 100 places to put every $1, but one thing we can probably agree on is that we should use the budget strategically, transparently and completely. Please come to the meeting, fill out the survey and share your opinion on how the TAG budget should be used - thanks!
- Thanks to the parent who sent me a link to this article from Education.com: "Gifted Programs: Luxuries or Necessities." It's good reading if you've ever struggled to explain the need for TAG services.
The fact is that rapid learners often share some distinct needs. Repeating lessons that they have mastered long ago can sap their enthusiasm for school, so a PPS teacher well-versed in TAG teaching techniques uses skills to keep kids engaged at the proper rate and level of learning. This is required under the Oregon TAG Mandate.
Although TAG can be a sensitive and divisive issue, and confidentiality is important, I'm a strong believer that sharing information can help. (What do you think? Feel free to comment below.)
Have a good week and I'll see you next Tues.!
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Oregon TAG Task Force Report
-The state dept. of Education's TAG task force just released this report. It's called "The Quiet Crisis" and presents a strong case for a new, statewide plan to provide consistent TAG services.
Monday, October 1, 2012
TAG Nomination Deadline is Nov. 26
- This year's deadline for TAG nominations is November
26, 2012. Click on this page for copies of the Identification Process Form (nomination form), the testing schedule and other info.
- The Alameda Fall TAG Parent Meeting is October 16, 2012 in the Alameda cafeteria from 6:30-7:30 PM. Learn about the 2012-13 Alameda TAG plan and ask Mr. Lurie and Ms. VanDerWolf questions. (Note - We inquired about the overlap with the town hall presidential debate, but unfortunately it is too late to tweak the time of the meeting. Please get those DVRs set and join us to get your TAG questions answered!)
- Now that you've completed the District TAG Survey (many thanks!), please spend a few minutes on a parent survey about TAG at Alameda. Please fill it out by Oct. 15. Your answers will help shape talented & gifted student services at Alameda, and I'll use your feedback as I work with the PPS TAG Parent Advisory Council this year.
- Check out a recent NY Times Editorial on gifted education in the U.S.
- The Oregon Education Investment Board will have a community forum where you can share your priorities for education funding. It's
Thursday, October 18
Marshall High School Auditorium
3905 91st Avenue, Portland, OR 97266
6-8:00 p.m.
Anyone wishing to speak must sign in beginning at 5:30 p.m. Each speaker will be given two minutes. Public comments may also be emailed to: Education.Investment@state.or.us
- Questions? Please email me at amasondoan@gmail.com. Thanks!
Amy Mason
PPS TAG Parent Advisory Council Rep
- The Alameda Fall TAG Parent Meeting is October 16, 2012 in the Alameda cafeteria from 6:30-7:30 PM. Learn about the 2012-13 Alameda TAG plan and ask Mr. Lurie and Ms. VanDerWolf questions. (Note - We inquired about the overlap with the town hall presidential debate, but unfortunately it is too late to tweak the time of the meeting. Please get those DVRs set and join us to get your TAG questions answered!)
- Now that you've completed the District TAG Survey (many thanks!), please spend a few minutes on a parent survey about TAG at Alameda. Please fill it out by Oct. 15. Your answers will help shape talented & gifted student services at Alameda, and I'll use your feedback as I work with the PPS TAG Parent Advisory Council this year.
- Check out a recent NY Times Editorial on gifted education in the U.S.
- The Oregon Education Investment Board will have a community forum where you can share your priorities for education funding. It's
Thursday, October 18
Marshall High School Auditorium
3905 91st Avenue, Portland, OR 97266
6-8:00 p.m.
Anyone wishing to speak must sign in beginning at 5:30 p.m. Each speaker will be given two minutes. Public comments may also be emailed to: Education.Investment@state.or.us
- Questions? Please email me at amasondoan@gmail.com. Thanks!
Amy Mason
PPS TAG Parent Advisory Council Rep
Monday, September 24, 2012
Fall TAG Parent Meeting is Oct. 16 at 6:30
-The Fall TAG Parent Meeting is Tues., Oct. 16 at 6:30p. in the Alameda School cafeteria. Please join us. Mr. Lurie and Ms. VanDerWolf will share the latest news on TAG at Alameda and get your feedback on talented & gifted services. (Note - I inquired about the overlap with the town-hall presidential debate but unfortunately it is too late to tweak the time. Get those DVRs ready...come and get all of your TAG questions answered!)
-Individual parent/child TAG survey forms were mailed to homes last week. Please return to your child's teacher early this school year so that they can incorporate your feedback when working with your child. (This is different from the district TAG survey due Sept. 28.)
-We are working hard to offer Saturday Academy enrichment during late start mornings this school year. Please email virginialaforte@me.com if you can help. Thanks!
-Individual parent/child TAG survey forms were mailed to homes last week. Please return to your child's teacher early this school year so that they can incorporate your feedback when working with your child. (This is different from the district TAG survey due Sept. 28.)
-We are working hard to offer Saturday Academy enrichment during late start mornings this school year. Please email virginialaforte@me.com if you can help. Thanks!
Friday, September 21, 2012
OATAG Conference is Oct. 20 in Hillsboro
Click here for information on the Ore. Association for TAG conference. The theme is "Learning From Our Children."
Monday, September 10, 2012
District TAG Survey Deadline is Sept. 28
Thanks to those of you who've already filled out the survey. I know it's a busy back-to-school month, but please take the time to give the district your feedback. (There's a nifty comments section & everything.)
Thanks!
PPS TAG Survey for adults AND students is at -
http://www.pps.k12.or.us/departments/tag/7811.htm
Thanks!
PPS TAG Survey for adults AND students is at -
http://www.pps.k12.or.us/departments/tag/7811.htm
Monday, September 3, 2012
District TAG Survey Link!!
Please take the time to fill out this survey and offer your honest feedback in the comments section. TAG director Kimberly Matier is going to use the results to evaluate how to improve the classroom experience of TAG kids within PPS.
Here's the link -
http://www.pps.k12.or.us/departments/tag/7811.htm
We're also putting the finishing touches on an Alameda-specific survey.
Thanks for filling out the survey and please spread the word!
Here's the link -
http://www.pps.k12.or.us/departments/tag/7811.htm
We're also putting the finishing touches on an Alameda-specific survey.
Thanks for filling out the survey and please spread the word!
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
District TAG Survey in September
The TAG parent advisory council has worked closely with Kimberly Matier, PPS' new Director of Instruction, on a detailed TAG survey. This is our chance to let the district know what is working, what is not working, and how PPS can better serve TAG kids. (A committee of Alameda TAG parents is also hard at work on a survey that is specific to Alameda; more on that soon.)
You should receive a postcard about the PPS survey by August 20. There will be a link on all school websites and information will go home in opening day packets.
Please take the time to fill out the survey and offer your feedback in the Comments sections. Spread the word to any other TAG parents - thanks!
-Amy
You should receive a postcard about the PPS survey by August 20. There will be a link on all school websites and information will go home in opening day packets.
Please take the time to fill out the survey and offer your feedback in the Comments sections. Spread the word to any other TAG parents - thanks!
-Amy
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Welcome to Alameda's TAG Parent Blog
Thank you to everyone who attended the June 4 TAG parent meeting. It's clear that many parents are hungry for more information about TAG, so this blog is one resource that should help.
As the school's 2012-13 representative on the district TAG advisory committee, I am working with other PPS parents to shape district policy on TAG & reduce confusion so that talented and gifted kids get their needs met as required by state law.
Please feel free to spread the word to other Alameda parents. If you want to be on our mailing list, email me at amasondoan@gmail.com . (I'll bcc everything for privacy's sake.)
Look for the district TAG survey in late August and an Alameda TAG survey in early fall. Please take time to offer your honest, detailed feedback on both. PPS has a new TAG director who is very interested in how talented & gifted kids are faring within the district, so we have the opportunity to make some changes. The Alameda TAG survey will help TAG coordinator Pamela Van Der Wolf prioritize TAG enrichment activities both in and out of the classroom.
The next Alameda TAG parent meeting is tentatively scheduled for Sept. Enjoy the rest of the summer! -Amy
As the school's 2012-13 representative on the district TAG advisory committee, I am working with other PPS parents to shape district policy on TAG & reduce confusion so that talented and gifted kids get their needs met as required by state law.
Please feel free to spread the word to other Alameda parents. If you want to be on our mailing list, email me at amasondoan@gmail.com . (I'll bcc everything for privacy's sake.)
Look for the district TAG survey in late August and an Alameda TAG survey in early fall. Please take time to offer your honest, detailed feedback on both. PPS has a new TAG director who is very interested in how talented & gifted kids are faring within the district, so we have the opportunity to make some changes. The Alameda TAG survey will help TAG coordinator Pamela Van Der Wolf prioritize TAG enrichment activities both in and out of the classroom.
The next Alameda TAG parent meeting is tentatively scheduled for Sept. Enjoy the rest of the summer! -Amy
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