What I've been wondering about my new principal and her approach to building leadership by Kate Place https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11 A safe place to ask the questions everyone wants to ask, but not sure how en-us 2018-02-04 21:38:30 UTC 2026-06-02 08:33:42 UTC hello@padlet.com What will be the official candy of Rising Hill? Who decides? 912086_1 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/227913436 KP--You decide! I just eat it. I love candy! 

]]> 2018-02-04 21:41:18 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/227913436 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228202171 How do you run PLTs and staff meetings? 

KP--I don't. You do. : ) Maybe that's not always true, but that's my first reaction and a goal. I look forward to spending time talking about PLTs. I believe that when our teams (PLTs) functions with consistency, clarity, purpose, and action then we're doing something right! That probably didn't answer your question, though.  Teams should be focused on students, student data, and adult actions that improve students learning.

Staff meetings--Let's decide that together.  I think meetings should be focused on our School Improvement Plan and our District PD Modules (and ideally both are aligned). Our BLT will help structure, coordinate, deliver, and support meetings.  ]]> 2018-02-05 16:29:31 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228202171 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228203284 What qualities do you look for in your staff? 

KP-I love CUSTOMER SERVICE! I grew up in a small town and my parents ran a hardware store.  We survived and thrived off of customer service. I LOVE customer service in my favorite restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations, ...everything. I believe all people in our school are our customers.  So, I look for how we can serve our students, families, and one another.  How can we dig in and problem solve together?  How do we reflect on tough situations and get better? How do we help people share and celebrate great experiences?

I love LEARNING! I hope our staff does too. A few years ago I had an epiphany: We ask our students to make more than a year's growth in a year's time. We can learn at least that much too. And, we don't really take "stuff" off our plates very often, but work becomes easier, more systemic, and we have rooms in our brains to add more/different because we become GREAT at something and it becomes automatic, like driving a car or preparing our favorite meals.

PROBLEM SOLVERS--when my husband and I have tough days at work, we say "I had a chance to do my job today." (Sometimes, we even add something like, "And I think I did a good job with it!").  

HONEST. REFLECTIVE. FUN. BALANCED. ... AND I'm sure there's so much more!]]> 2018-02-05 16:31:11 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228203284 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228203432 What are your pet peeves? 

KP---No one asked me this for awhile. I may be responding dangerously fast...receiving an email from someone when we could have talked; emailing/texting when we have other obligations--mostly teaching (and when I'm driving and I find myself responding/writing emails).  ]]> 2018-02-05 16:31:23 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228203432 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228204172 What do you hope to do differently from your other buildings at Rising Hill as a principal?

KP-Define our Vision/Mission earlier than we did at BR (it was already there, but we didn't adjust it until I had been there a few years. I had no idea how much power the Vision and Mission have!)

Increase feedback and clarity with staff. 

Increase opportunities for students to participate in relevant and meaningful experiences. 

Engage in community service as a school. 

Continue to strive for student achievement. BR students and staff work very hard, and yet, we were consistently right at or slightly above District Averages. I want to do what it takes to be the best. I'm really not competitive but I want to be sure we are at the top!

Increase collaboration with encore, resource and support and classrooms. This has routinely been a goal in my experiences, and continues to be a challenge. Our design is going to count on this success!

All ideas, but since you asked...]]> 2018-02-05 16:32:33 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228204172 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228217911 What do data cycles look like for you?  Do teachers get input on how reporting is done - forms used, how often, etc.?

KP-We will follow the district model for using the Data Analysis Protocol, but grade levels should establish forms and systems that are meaningful to YOU (and allow others to understand and support).]]> 2018-02-05 16:53:00 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228217911 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228219569 Will we get to offer suggestions about schedules?

KP--Great question. I had not thought about schedules, yet. I will add this to one of our spring meetings or generate some type of survey to gain feedback. Yes, you'll have a chance to offer suggestions!  

]]> 2018-02-05 16:55:15 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228219569 How do you feel about jeans/comfy clothes days? https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228344627 KP--YES! Fridays.]]> 2018-02-05 20:28:05 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228344627 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228359248 What type of behavior management style/structure do you prefer? What will the building wide expectations look like 

KP--We will figure this out together. I have experience with NO defined system, PBIS, and each grade level using a different system. I have thought that a great model might be one in which we have UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE, COMMON EXPECTATIONS, SOME COMMON PRACTICES, and then different grade levels (ie. K-1, 2-3, 4-5) have unique and age-appropriate ways to recognize positive behaviors and support students who have difficulty learning/demonstrating expected behaviors. I can elaborate, but the idea might be that there is a little bit of change every few years, keeping students engaged, motivated, and connected.

Just thoughts, but you asked, so I answered!]]> 2018-02-05 21:03:53 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228359248 How do you plan on building morale in our building? https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228366997 KP--We need to understand and appreciate one another-as a staff. Take time to listen to one another. ]]> 2018-02-05 21:30:19 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228366997 Jeans on Fridays?!?! https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228708292 KP--Yes! But, only on Fridays and with spirit wear as often as possible. There are also special occasions for jeans during the week, but as an exception. I think our students and families recognize and appreciate professional attire. ]]> 2018-02-06 16:44:30 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228708292 What type of conference schedule do you prefer? 12 hours and 3 hours? Conferences in the fall or spring? https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228708558 KP-We need to figure out how to meet parent/student needs and communicate pertinent information at the right time. My initial thought is that fall conferences are critical for all and spring conferences might be "as needed". Just an initial thought.


]]> 2018-02-06 16:44:53 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228708558 What will flexibility be like to use our building to it's full potential - co-teaching, maker space, personalized learning, etc.? https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228830256
KP--This is something we ALL have to work together to understand and develop. This is our work and goal! I am planning some opportunities to learn about how other schools/businesses use space.  ]]> 2018-02-06 19:55:14 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/228830256 Staff meetings before or after school? chelsea_fullingtonegli https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229146400 KP--We can decide together]]> 2018-02-07 15:35:43 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229146400 What are your big look for during walk-throughs and observations? chelsea_fullingtonegli https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229147577 KP--We'll use the district instructional model and the district walkthrough tool to focus walkthroughs. I'll add info about the District Walkthrough tool to an upcoming PD. 

I also like to do focused walkthroughs after PD modules so we can discuss progress and needs. For example, right now BR is using a math feedback tool that includes language/ideas from our recent Math Modules. ]]> 2018-02-07 15:37:45 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229147577 DARE for 5th grade? Who would take the initiative to set that up for Rising Hill? chelsea_fullingtonegli https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229156088 KP--In NKCS we can offer DARE through our KCPD or NKCS' Choices program. We'll have to decide and plan. Our grade level team can work together to consider both and get one or the other on the calendar soon. What program does BP use? NV?]]> 2018-02-07 15:50:50 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229156088 How do you feel about "sacrificing" a subject for deeper instruction in other areas? For example, we have no set time in our schedule to teach social studies and I HATE that. chelsea_fullingtonegli https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229157034 KP-We have defined district guidelines for instructional time: 60 RW, 60 WW, 60 Math, 30 GR, 10 NT. Science is a priority over SS. I don't like leaving anything out, but understand our obligations in elementary. I'd be happy to work together to look for ways to support SS and Science through RW.]]> 2018-02-07 15:52:10 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229157034 Departmentalization or co-teaching? What's your philosophy on helping teachers "balance the load?" chelsea_fullingtonegli https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229158616 KP--Collaboration is key, so this depends on how it supports or prohibits collaboration.]]> 2018-02-07 15:54:16 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229158616 Who will comprise the team/panel that discusses and problem solves our academically challenged students? Would these meetings occur before, during or after school? https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229342734 KP--We'll need to share experiences and expertise to decide. I'll be on this team and teachers will always participate to represent/support students. My experience has been that reading support teachers and school psychs are also on the team. The time of meetings will be decided by the people and availability. ]]> 2018-02-07 21:31:04 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229342734 How will extra duties (arrival/dismissal of car/bus riders and walkers) be assigned? https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229344197 KP--My previous experience is that encore, resource, support staff usually has the duties while classroom teachers supervise students. We'll take some time to share preferences.]]> 2018-02-07 21:35:15 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229344197 At times, it's necessary to schedule a child or personal doctor appointment last minute. Do you prefer we take 1/2 day for this, or schedule around our lunch/break/plan time? https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229344505 KP--Usually we can make it work around your lunch/break/plan time.]]> 2018-02-07 21:36:09 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229344505 How do you plan to support teachers and the learning that is happening in the classroom when students are repeatedly disruptive and jeopardizing the learning and/or safety of other students? paulapattillo3 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229700295 KP--We'll use a team problem solving approach (teachers, principal, parents, students) to identify the behaviors that are interfering with learning and support with teaching that meets these social/behavioral deficits. 

]]> 2018-02-08 17:24:25 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229700295 Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years? What are your professional goals? paulapattillo3 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229704695 KP--I intend to be a RH for quite a while. I've seen the benefit of continuity in a staff and how the team is able to learn together and make continuous improvements.

]]> 2018-02-08 17:30:59 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229704695 How do/will you support teachers when parents are complaining? paulapattillo3 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229743974 KP--I want to listen and connect parents and teachers, so they can problem solve together. Complaining sounds awfully negative. I want to be sure to we're hearing the concern and figuring out how students are being impacted--academically, emotionally, and socially. ]]> 2018-02-08 18:29:02 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229743974 What do you think/hope your current staff at BR would say about you as a principal? What do you think/hope the parents say? https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229745508 KP--They'd say I share great candy, love chewing gum, and always have snacks!

And, I hope they'd recognize that teacher leadership and autonomy is important. I think they'd say that I believe in modeling and recognizing positive expectations. I believe all students can and will succeed. They might also recognize that I believe discipline should begin with strong classroom routines and procedures and that my role is to support -- not overpower discipline.]]> 2018-02-08 18:32:14 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/229745508 rmcky8 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/230278298 Is co-teaching a goal of our school? Is PBL a goal of our school? What modern school practices are we hoping to incorporate that might be different from other NKC buildings?

KP--Increasing personalized learning experiences (so all students are learning at high rates) will be a goal. Our work will be to discover what approaches will help. This is the work our team needs to dig into!]]> 2018-02-10 15:20:39 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/230278298 Twitter rmcky8 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/230681387 What hashtags should we use to show off our amazing Explorers on Twitter? 
#explorersontherise 

KP--LOVE THIS!!  #Riseup
#Rise&Shine #explorersontherise   Yep, I like that one!!

]]> 2018-02-12 16:34:46 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/230681387 rmcky8 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/239650702 What does the furniture look like? 
KP-We have a variety of furniture styles throughout the building. On 3/29, we'll try to have a furniture explanation from our Hollis and Miller Designers.]]> 2018-03-08 14:10:02 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/239650702 rmcky8 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/239651027 What/when will to moving look like?

KP--I worked with folks last week to discuss this. I recommend that you take all personal items home. Items that you own (personal), but aren't all that personal (like books, school materials) can be boxed and labeled with name and new room number. We'll place work orders to have the boxes moved. Some people may be moving curricular materials, depending on whether or not there is a direct move. We'll also pack and label these.  More info on those moves soon.]]> 2018-03-08 14:10:37 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/239651027 rmcky8 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/239651363 When will staffing allocations/grade levels be set?
KP--Most of our anticipated placements will remain, but there are a couple of grade levels we'll continue to monitor. I'll share expected placements before 3/29.]]> 2018-03-08 14:11:10 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/239651363 rmcky8 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/239657402 What summer professional development will be offered for our staff to continue to grow together?

KP--We'll work together to plan and develop this. 

]]> 2018-03-08 14:20:09 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/239657402 https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/245457743 Will we have  an ELL program at Rising Hill?

KP--No, ELL services will remain at Bell Prairie at this time. ]]> 2018-03-23 13:48:50 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/245457743 When will eligibility/IEP meetings be held? Before school? After school? During teacher's plan time? laura_reiland https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/256701641 KP--Before and after school; not during plan time unless it's a last option or families or a critical need for our team.]]> 2018-04-30 20:55:46 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/256701641 Will there be systematic procedures for reviewing student academic data and, if so, what will those procedures look like? What procedures will be in place for addressing student problem behaviors? laura_reiland https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/256701893 KP--Two big questions... I'll do my best. We will have an Academic (A-PST) and a Behavior Problem Solving Team (B-PST). Both teams will monitor student data, support students with interventions, monitor progress, and make adjustments, as needed. We will have scheduled dates for both A-PST and B-PST. Stay tuned for more information about the teams.]]> 2018-04-30 20:57:13 UTC https://padlet.com/nkcs/n4chkc3f8y11/wish/256701893