- Cama-i, quyana tailuci!
- (Central Yup’ik)
- "Greetings, thank you for coming!"
Last Call, New, Reminder
Last Call! Monthly MeetUp for Rural Educators
Join rural teachers each month to connect and share ideas in job-alike groups or in specific interest areas. Rural teachers don’t always have colleagues with whom they can problem solve and brainstorm. Finding ways to connect and grow as professionals is especially important now, as we face challenges never before encountered. Meetings will be in an Edcamp style, where the agenda will be created in real-time based on the input of participants. The next meetup is Tuesday February 2 from 3:45 - 5:15pm. To register for next month’s session, visit aklearns.org.
This training is designed for school board members & district leaders to gain crucial skills for their role during these times. Sessions include Superintendent Contracts, Communication on Your Board, and Mindfulness for the School Board. Attendees will also be informed on what is happening in the legislature this session, connect with other districts, and develop talking points for this year’s legislative sessions to speak with a unified voice to advocate for public education.
At the same time, the Youth Advocacy Institute will be an opportunity for students to connect with peers from across the state, and their School Boards. Students will build and use their skills to advocate during this year’s Alaska State Legislature.
To register and for more information https://aasb.org/virtual-leadership-legislative-academy-youth-advocacy-institute-register-now/.
Last Call! 38th Annual National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest
The National Missing Children's Day Poster Contest is a nationwide contest for 5th grade students and is designed to promote awareness among teachers, parents/guardians and children and engage them in discussions about safety. Posters should be mailed to Lieutenant Paul Fussey at 5700 E. Tudor Road, Anchorage, AK 99507 by February 1.
New:
NEW! Register NOW for the 2021 AlaskaCAN! Conference
Join us for the 7th annual AlaskaCAN! Conference. During the 3-day virtual conference, participants will have the opportunity to engage and collaborate in meaningful ways to move us towards reaching our collective goal: 65% of working-age Alaskans earning a postsecondary credential by 2025. This year's theme, Reaching Our Goal: 65% by 2025, centers on two attainment factors: Credentials of Value and Building K-16 Educational Pathways. We will address these factors through two critically important lenses as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic: Equity & Access and Distance-Delivered Programming.
To learn more, please visit the 2021 AlaskaCAN! Conference website.
NEW! Ben Clark Honored as Esri Teacher of the Month
Please help us congratulate Ben Clark, a teacher at Sitka High School as he was selected as the Esri October 2020 Teacher of the Month! This recognition is nation-wide and there is a video showing his work with the ArcGIS materials. To view other winners from around the country to see the wide range, visit Teacher Video Challenge (arcgis.com). Mr. Clark currently teaches U.S. History, World History, and AP Human Geography.
NEW! Opportunity to Apply for Micro-Grants for Food Security Funding Now Open!
The Alaska Division of Agriculture has announced that they have opened the application process for the Micro-Grants for Food Security program. Alaska will have $1.8 million to help Alaskans grow more nutritious food locally and become more food secure. Individuals are eligible for up to $5,000 grants. Organizations such as Indian tribes and tribal organizations; non-profits such as religious organizations, food banks and food pantries; federally-funded educational facilities including Head Start and Early Head Start programs, public schools, public institutions of higher education, Tribal Colleges and Universities, and job training programs; and local and tribal governments that may not levy local taxes under state or federal law will be eligible for up to $10,000 in grant funds.
All the information you need to find out how to apply, who is eligible, how applications will be scored, and more is posted at Division of Agriculture (alaska.gov). If you have questions about the application opportunity, please contact Catherine Cheadle, the Grants Administrator at the Division of Agriculture at Catherine.cheadle@alaska.gov or 907-761-3851. Pre-applications are due February 15.
NEW! Upcoming Alaska Staff Development Network Webinar Series
The first webinar series in ASDN’s spring webinars starts next week. Increasing Student Engagement Through Action Research and Evidence-Based Practices presented by Karl Schleich begins on February 4. Student engagement leads to increased student achievement. This 6-part series will focus on YOU and YOUR CLASSROOM, using self-reflection and collaborative conversations to develop practical and sustainable routines that impact your students’ learning. There is no cost for educators from ASDN Level 1 member districts, Level 2 districts pay $100. Two optional university credits are available for attending all webinars and participating in online assignments and discussions ($185). To register for this and other upcoming webinars, please visit asdn.org.
NEW! Discovery Southeast Hiring for Summer Camp Leader Positions
Summer Camp Leader is a great opportunity for someone exploring the field of outdoor education, or for an experiences educator looking to expand. This position is in the field leading groups of elementary to middle school aged children as they explore the natural history of Juneau. Educators will work week-long day camps for most of the summer. The position is full time, with 35-40 hours a week starting at a rate of $15-16 per hour DOE. Educators will work 7-9 weeks of camp, with 1 week of training prior to camp, and a mid summer training, additional weeks off may be negotiable. Go to Discovery Southeast’s webpage for more information and to apply, or direct questions to bess@discoverysoutheast.org.
Reminder:
Curriculum Resources for Teaching About Sled Dogs and Mushing in Alaska
Looking for new ways to incorporate sled dogs, mushing, and it’s place in Alaska history and culture into your classroom? Check out these two great webpages:
A-CHILL: A collaborative project across the schools & communities of Alaska Gateway and Yukon Koyukuk School Districts. (https://www.achill.life/)
George Attla – Making of a Champion: 54 Years of Competitive Sled Dog Racing: 1958-2011 (http://attlamakingofachampion.com/)
SERRC is Hiring an Executive Director
Southeast Regional Resource Center (SERRC) is seeking a full-time visionary leader to develop exceptional services that promote increased student performance; efficiency, economy, and effectiveness in school operations; increased education and career opportunities for adult learners; and support for the implementation of statewide initiatives. For the full job announcement, visit our website www.serrc.org/careers/. Applications are due by February 26 at 4:30 pm.
Beyond the Bell: Science Curriculum Topic Study
Join authors Page Keeley and Joyce Tugel for six interactive sessions creating applied science lessons aligned to Alaska Science Standards. They will address the needs of teachers at every level in their teaching careers, as well as those who support teachers. They will share the processes, organizers, and models that can be used to guide instruction. Collaborate with educators across Alaska and create a shared resource bank of lessons designed to engage students in applying content, science and engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts within concepts. Optional UAA credit available. Contact Amy Jo Meiners at mailto:amyjom@serrc.org for course registration information. The study begins February 11, Thursdays from 3:45-5:15pm AKST.
Beyond the Bell, Two New Professional Book Studies
By popular request, Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain (begins Feb. 9) and Balance With Blended Learning (begins Feb. 11). Both are free and open to Alaska, Oregon, and Washington as we support our regional network. Course credit optional.
NASF Centennial School Tree Challenge Grant, Extended!
The Alaska Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry has extended The National Association of State Foresters (NASF) Centennial School Tree Challenge. Grants are available to schools for the purchase, shipping and planting of trees. Trees can be planted on school grounds, or even indoors if your school has a suitable space or a greenhouse. This opportunity is first come first served and is available until funds are exhausted. NEW: Participating schools will be eligible to receive a FREE curriculum from Project Learning Tree!
COVID-19 has brought exceptional challenges to us all during the past year, and it's no surprise that educators have once again shown courage, strength and resiliency. Plant a tree at your school in honor of your school's heroes! Create a memorial grove of trees in memory of your community members who have lost lives to COVID-19. Use this grant to create a new outdoor classroom surrounded by trees for a healthy learning environment!
Notice Inviting Applications: Indian Education Formula Grants to LEAs
- Deadlines:
- Part I of Electronic Application System for Indian Education (EASIE) Applications Available: February 8, 2021.
- Deadline for Transmittal of EASIE Part I: March 11, 2021.
- Part II of EASIE Applications Available: April 5, 2021.
- Deadline for Transmittal of EASIE Part II: May 14, 2021.
- For More Information Contact: Crystal C. Moore, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, MS 6335, Washington, DC 20202-6335. Telephone: (202) 215-3964. Email: crystal.moore@ed.gov. For technical questions about the EASIE application and uploading documentation, contact the Partner Support Center (PSC). Telephone: 877-457-3336. Email: OIE.EASIE@ed.gov.
Notice Inviting Applications: Alaska Native Education Program
- Deadline for Transmittal of Applications: April 12, 2021.
- Contact for Further Information: Almita Reed, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, room 3E222, Washington, DC 20202. Telephone: (202) 260-1979. Email: ASKANEP@ed.gov.
The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) are the highest honors bestowed by the United States government specifically for K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teaching. The Awards were established by Congress in 1983. The President may recognize up to 108 exemplary teachers each year. To read more about the program, nominate a 7-12 teacher, or view the application packet, please visit https://www.paemst.org.
June Nelson Memorial Scholarship
The Association of Alaska School Boards is proud to announce its 30th Annual Scholarship Award Competition! The June Nelson Memorial Scholarship is named in honor of the late June Nelson, longtime school board member from Kotzebue. June contributed much to the cause of education and will be remembered for her outstanding service on behalf of Alaska's children. This 2020-2021 school year, AASB will award fifteen graduating seniors each with a $1,500 scholarship to apply toward their post-secondary education. The scholarship may be applied toward the student's choice of a business, trade or a college institution. The deadline to apply is March 8, 2021.
Air Force ROTC Scholarship Program
The Air Force ROTC High School Scholarship Program gives high school seniors financial aid for college, followed by a guaranteed career in the Air Force (or Space Force!) upon graduation. If you’re curious about Air Force ROTC’s scholarship opportunities, the adventures you’ll have and the family you’ll discover within the program, or the thrill of becoming a confident leader in the world’s greatest Air Force or Space Force, please contact Sarah J. Boggins, 2d Lt, USAF. She is there to answer any and all of your questions!
Stories of Women in STEM at the Smithsonian
Stories of Women in STEM at the Smithsonian features biographies of trailblazing women who made history through their scientific discoveries and innovation. From aerospace engineer and mathematician Mary Golda Ross to hair care entrepreneur Madam C.J. Walker, learn how women have defied gender stereotypes and overcome structural barriers to advance the science, technology, engineering, and math industry. Read on Apple Books or via the web.
Districts can Register for Alaska’s School Climate & Connectedness Survey
All school districts are invited to participate in the 2021 School Climate & Connectedness Survey (SCCS). Schools are looking quite different this year. But no matter what shape learning is happening in your district-remotely, in-person, or blended, it is essential for students, staff, and families to feel safe and connected. Taking SCCS will provide you with student, staff, and student perceptions on how they are doing now. For the 2021 school year, additional questions have been added to better understand the needs of students, staff, and families during COVID-19.
For more information and to register go to: https://aasb.org/register-now-for-sccs/ or email Jenni Lefing at jlefing@aasb.org.
38th Annual UAA/Anchorage Daily News Creative Writing Contest - Call for Submissions
The Alaska Center for the Book, once again, is coordinating the annual UAA/Anchorage Daily News Creative Writing contest and would like to invite writers of all ages to submit entries. We especially would like to encourage librarians and teachers to share this information with their students and patrons. The age of entrants has ranged from 4 years old to 84 years old, so all ages are welcome. For more information on the rules and categories and to access the electronic entry form, please use this link Creative Writing Contest 2021. The last day to submit entries is February 15.
UAA School of Education Seeking Comment
The School of Education at the University of Alaska Anchorage is hosting an accreditation visit by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) the week of March 15, 2021. Interested parties are invited to submit third-party comments to the site team. Please note that comments must address substantive matters relating to the quality of professional education programs offered and should specify the party’s relationship to the provider (i.e., graduate, present or former faculty member, employer of graduates). Anonymous testimony will not be considered. Email callforcomments@caepnet.org to submit comments. The deadline to submit comment is March 12, 2021.
The U.S. Department of Education is Seeking Education Success Stories
USED is looking to highlight education success stories and best practices. Teachers, parents, or student ambassadors are invited to draft a blog post about their successful transition to the classroom or hybrid teaching model that includes innovative or unique ways students are being educated in this new set of circumstances. The first blog in the series featuring a school teacher in New Hampshire is here. Contact Susan Falconer, USED, for more information.
The Parent’s Guide to Filling out the FAFSA Form
While the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form is the student’s application, we know that parents often play a large role in the process. With that in mind, the U.S. Department of Education wanted to provide instructions for parents who are starting the FAFSA form on behalf of their child.
Alaska’s Heart through Student Art Expands its Reach in 2020
Alaska’s Heart through Student Art is an annual celebration of student expression that brings legislators, statewide educational leaders, students, teachers and artists together to celebrate the beauty, inspiration, and creativity of student artists across the state. The event is launched annually in the capital city of Juneau as statewide leaders gather for the legislative session.
Latest COVID-19 Response Resources from the REL Program
In response to COVID-19, the 10 Regional Educational Laboratories (RELs) have collaborated to produce a series of evidence-based resources and information about teaching and learning in a remote environment, as well as other considerations brought by the pandemic.
- Re-thinking Education Accountability Systems in Light of COVID-19
- Back-to-School Metrics: How to Assess Conditions for Teaching and Learning and to Measure Student Progress During the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Promising Practices and Approaches to Support Remote Learning
- Strategies for Educators to Support the Social and Emotional Needs of Students Impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Demand for Racial Justice: Plans for Reopening Schools
- Supporting Students Experiencing Trauma During the COVID-19 Pandemic
U.S. Department of Education Releases Parent and Family Digital Learning Guide
The U.S. Department of Education released a new Parent and Family Digital Learning Guide, a resource to help parents and guardians understand how digital tools can provide tailored learning opportunities, engage students with course materials, encourage creative expression, and enrich the educational experience.
Are you interested in dual enrollment opportunities at the University of Alaska? Members of the University of Alaska Transition Coalition (UATC) are available to assist with curriculum alignment, dual enrollment, and other opportunities that support the transition of secondary students to continue their training and education at the postsecondary level.
Girls Who Code at Home Activities
Girls Who Code releases free computer science activities for students, educators, and parents on Mondays. Some online, some offline, of varying levels of difficulty. Each activity features a woman in tech who pioneered innovative technology.
Get Us PPE is a national nonprofit that has delivered almost 2.5 million pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) to frontline workers. They are launching a program to get PPE to schools free of charge by matching schools and districts with local maker communities (groups that sew, 3D print, or otherwise produce "made" PPE). Interested parties can take this survey on PPE needs.
Google Educators Group of Alaska
Google Educators Group (GEG) are independently run communities of educators who inspire and empower each other to meet the needs of students through technology both in the classroom and beyond. Via face to face meet-ups and online activities, GEGs provide a way for educators who are passionate about education and technology to meet like-minded people and share, learn, and collaborate together.
Awareness Materials on Family and Youth Homelessness
As a result of the pandemic, and without the usual methods of outreach and identification, many families and youth experiencing homelessness may be even more disconnected from school and early childhood programs. The SchoolHouse Connection created PSAs and a social media toolkit to help raise awareness and provide information around educational rights.
Learning Computer Science While Schools are Closed
Code.org want to support teachers, students, and families while students are learning from home. They’re offering resources for parents and teachers. Plus, options for smartphones for anyone who doesn’t have a computer at home.
Online Story Circles for Educators and Community Members
Educator Story Circles are opportunities for small groups of people (educators and engaged community members) to gather together to listen and share thoughts and stories related to a common theme. No preparation is necessary, and each participant has the option to share or simply listen to others. Story Circles aren’t about performing. Rather, the purpose is to listen and connect. Participants who want to lead Story Circles with their own students or community members will have access to a free toolkit and will be eligible for a $200 stipend from the Alaska Humanities Forum.
Ready to Read Alaska is a statewide initiative for families and caregivers of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in Alaska. The program’s mission is to promote early literacy development in Alaska’s young children to create the foundations needed for when a child begins to learn to read. Ready to Read is posting training videos on YouTube, and literacy tips, book recommendations, crafts, and activities on Instagram.
To submit news items, please email deed.infoexchange@alaska.gov. This newsletter is available weekly and in archived form at https://education.alaska.gov/news/infoexch.
This newsletter contains hyperlinks to information created and maintained by other public and private organizations. These links are provided for the reader’s convenience. DEED does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. Furthermore, the inclusion of links is not intended to reflect their importance, nor is it intended to endorse any views expressed, or products or services offered, on these sites, or the organizations sponsoring the sites.