August 30, 2024
Business Operations
Business Operations
MidHigh Admin, Reminder
School Activity Bus Information

Please use the link below to complete your school's activity bus information. The form must be approved and signed by the principal. Email the completed form to TransAdminSupport@scsk12.org. If you have any additional questions, please call 901-416-6077.

 

MSCS Activity Bus Information.docx

 

Reminder: September 6, 2024

Research & Performance Management
All All
PowerBI Updates and New Releases

Announcements:


New User Training Sessions are happening now! Look for Course Code 34810 in PLZ and register today! See this page for more information.

----------------------------- 

New Releases:

High School Progress is a new dashboard in the MSCS Compass designed to assist schools in tracking Graduation Cohorts and determining if students are on- or off-track to graduate in four years. Check the user guides for more information!

COME to Win Report is now available! This report provides 20-day attendance information and if students are Champions, Winners or Participants. Note that it will not start populating data for 24-25 until the end of the first 20-day period. Check out the user guide for more information!

----------------------------- 

Monthly Newsletter: 

Check your inbox! On the first Wednesday of every month, the DAIM team sends out a monthly newsletter to all Power BI users. In it, you will find more information on upcoming trainings, new releases, and how-to guides. 

To see this month’s edition (and all archived editions), visit our support page
----------------------------- 

Training and Support Resources:   

Check out our Training Calendar for all upcoming District Trainings. 
---------------------------- 

This week (9/3 and 9/5), during Virtual Office Hours, we will be covering the new C.O.M.E. to Win report in Student Attendance.

Virtual Office Hours sessions are on Tuesday and Thursday at 3:30 PM on Microsoft Teams.

Sign up today! For more information on Virtual Office Hours, check out this flyer
---------------------------- 

Check out ourpage of all updated features and recent releases on our DAIM Support Page! 

You can reach out to us at DAIMSUPPORT@scsk12.orgif you need support.   
---------------------------- 
Power BI Access: 

Principals can give school staff members access through thePowerBI Access AppFor more information about how to use the app, see this user guide.

Academics
All Admin
SY24-25 TEM, TEAM, & NIE Evaluator Certification

The SY2024-2025 TEM, TEAM and NIE Evaluator Certification periods are open for NEW and RETURNING evaluators. 

For more information, check out SY2024-2025 TEM & NIE Evaluator Certification Process

Returning TEM & NIE Certifications must be completed by August 30th.

Questions? Please reach out to eps@scsk12.org.  

All Admin
Student Perception (Voice) Survey Coordinator

The fall Student Voice Survey will be administered from October 21 through November 4. School Administrators should complete this form to indicate the site coordinator for their school by September 17

The Principal will be the default coordinator if one is not designated. 

Should you have any questions, please reach out to the Evaluation and Satisfaction office: 

Phone: 901.416.2475 | Email,  eps@scsk12.org

 

All Admin
NIE Goal-Setting Conference

The Goal Setting Conference season is here, and Non-Instructional Evaluations are now available in PLZ! All Non-Instructional employees must complete a Goal-Setting Conference as the first step of the performance appraisal process.  

As a reminder, the NIE employee will need to select their certified NIE evaluator first in PLZ in order for the evaluator to have access to their Non-Instructional Evaluation plan.

Click HERE for more NIE Goal Setting Conference details. 

Questions? Please reach out to eps@scsk12.org.  

All Reminder, All
Upcoming Informational Meeting: Green Folder Process:

We are pleased to announce an upcoming Green Folder Process Informational Meeting designed specifically for Central Office personnel. This session will provide important details on the Green Folder Process, ensuring that all staff members are equipped with the knowledge needed to support our students effectively.

Session Details:

  • Date: Wednesday, September 4, 2024
  • Virtual Session: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (Microsoft Teams link will be shared with registrants)
  • In-Person Session: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Location: TLA Auditorium)

Reserve Your Spot:

To secure your spot, please complete the registration form using the link below:

Register Here

For additional information, feel free to contact Laura Tippit at tippitl@scsk12.org.

Reminder: August 30, 2024

All Admin, Reminder
Required Action for TASL Mandated Positions (Principals and Supervisors):

Administrators are required to earn TASL credits if they spend 50 percent or more of their time in direct delivery of instructional services to the following: teachers, principals, and/or other educators in administrative or supervisory positions. All principals and assistant principals are TASL mandated. Most district staff in instructional supervisor roles are TASL mandated. Teacher leaders are not TASL mandated.

Reminder: August 30, 2024

All Reminder, All
ELA Standards Review Public Feedback Survey:

The existing ELA standards, first implemented in the 2020-21 school year, are being reviewed in the public feedback survey. The public is encouraged to note whether a standard should be kept, removed, modified, or moved to a different section. All Tennesseans are invited to review the standards, and the survey will remain open through September 8. Click here for more information and to take the survey.

Reminder: August 30, 2024

All PLC, Teachers, Other, Admin, Reminder
K-12 ELA Wonders & myPerspectives Fall PD Series

Whether you are a new hire or an experienced English/Language Arts teacher, there are fall ELA sessions suited just for you! Vendor-led fall PD offerings for K-5 ELA Wonders and 6-8/9-12 ELA myPerspectives are available. PLZ credit will be provided.

Questions? Email: OfficeofLiteracy@scsk12.org

Reminder: August 30, 2024

All Admin, Reminder
MTSS Lead Weekly Updates

Please see the MTSS Lead Weekly Updates for the week of August 26.  https://secure.smore.com/n/anxyu

Reminder: August 30, 2024

All PLC, Counselors, Teachers, Other, Admin, Coordinators, Required, Reminder
Reminders and Updates from the Office of Multilingual Learners
  • For compliance and identification purposes, it is essential that students are coded correctly in PowerSchool SIS. Please see here for more information.
  • Reminder - all students enrolling in the district for the first time must complete a Home Language Survey (HLS). All students must have a completed HLS on file. Student information in SIS must match the HLS.
  • All new students with a Non-English Language Background must be screened for ESL services using the ELPA21 Screener within the first 30 days of initial enrollment. Screener Ticket requests are to be submitted via this form.
  • All new and continuing Multilingual Learners must have a Parent Notification Letter sent home within the first 30 days of school. PNLs are generated in TN Pulse.
  • The first official count of MLs and Ts is October 1.
  • ILP Open Labs for ESL Teachers are 9/3 and 9/4 from 2:30-5:30p.m. at the Office of Multilingual Learners.
  • Upcoming events include: Virtual ESL Book Study for Administrators on 9/11, and ESL Exit Ceremony at East High on 9/19.

Reminder: September 5, 2024

All Counselors, Admin
RTI2-A and RTI2-B Showcase

Greetings, 

It’s time for our annual Memphis Shelby County Schools RTI Showcase

This year’s theme is, Aligning RTI2-A and RTI2-B.  

The Showcase will be September 6 from 8:00 am - 3:00 pm at the University of Memphis (University Center – Theater Room). School Counselor(s), RTI Lead/Co-Lead (RTI2-A & RTI2-B), School Social Workers, Behavior Specialist, and/or Reset Assistant are invited to attend. Each school present will receive a complimentary voucher to use at the Resource Fair that is hosted by the National Center for Youth Issues. 

Please see the Agenda and PLZ registration information below. 

RTI Showcase Agenda and Registration Information. Click the link here: this link

 

 

Athletics
MidHigh Admin, Reminder
6 Considerations When Choosing an Athletic Director and Coaches

By focusing on these considerations, you can ensure the selection of an Athletic Director and Coaches who will not only drive athletic success but also contribute to the overall educational mission of the school. 

 Athletic Director

1. Leadership and Communication Skills:

The Athletic Director (AD) should have strong leadership abilities and excellent communication skills. They must effectively manage teams, coordinate with various stakeholders, and clearly articulate the school’s athletic vision.

2. Experience in Athletic Administration:

Prior experience in athletic administration is recommended. This includes budgeting, fundraising, scheduling, compliance with regulations, and the ability to navigate complex situations such as athlete eligibility and event management.

3. Commitment to Student-Athlete Development:

The AD should prioritize the holistic development of student-athletes, focusing not only on athletic performance but also on academics, character, and life skills.

4. Understanding of School Culture:

An AD should be familiar with and supportive of the school's culture and values. They must align the athletic program with the school’s educational mission and community standards.

5. Organizational Skills:

The role requires exceptional organizational skills to manage multiple sports, teams, and schedules while ensuring compliance with state and district regulations.

6. Conflict Resolution Abilities:

The ability to handle conflicts, whether between coaches, athletes, or parents, is essential. An effective AD should be a fair and decisive mediator.

 

Coaches

1. Alignment with Educational Values:

 A coach should embody the school's educational values and goals. They must focus on the overall development of students, including character building, teamwork, and respect for others.

2. Coaching Experience and Success:

While experience in coaching is important, additional emphasis should also be placed on success in fostering both athletic skills and positive character traits in students.

3. Certified Teacher Advantage:

Choosing a faculty certified teacher as a coach is often optimal because they already understand the school's educational environment and standards. They are more likely to emphasize academics, have strong relationships with students, and integrate coaching with the broader educational experience.  The concepts of teaching and coaching are very similar. Student management, performance standards, assessments, outcomes and readiness levels are routinely managed in the learning environment.

4. Commitment to Student-Athlete Academics:

Coaches should understand the importance of academics and be committed to supporting student-athletes in balancing their sports and studies.

5. Ability to Build Positive Relationships:

The coach should be able to establish trust and rapport with students, parents, and colleagues. They should be approachable, supportive, and a positive role model.

6. Long-Term Program Development:

The ideal coach has a vision for the program’s long-term success, including developing student-athletes not only competitively but also promoting high standards of academic competence, character and citizenship to ensure continuity and stability within your teams.

We wanted to share some best practices to help you select the most qualified athletic director and coaching candidates. Athletics plays a pivotal role in the lives of our students and the community, so it's essential to have individuals in these roles who can inspire and encourage our student-athletes to excel both on and off the field. We want leaders who are committed to developing well-rounded student-athletes—model students who understand the importance of prioritizing their education and embracing leadership roles within the school and community.

 

References

National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) Guide to Interscholastic Athletic Programs Management

National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Coaching Essentials and Coaching Principles Courses

We also seek staff who can read, interpret, and adhere to district policies, state laws, and mandates. Ensuring that our athletic directors and coaches meet these expectations along with compensation guidelines and have completed all required training is essential.

 

In addition, we aim for competitive teams that embody good sportsmanship, perseverance, and school pride. This enthusiasm and dedication should be evident in any candidate you consider for a coaching or athletic director position. If you have any young or less experienced ADs or coaches who would benefit from mentorship in areas such as coaching strategies, strength and conditioning, fundraising, or practice organization, please reach out to us. We are committed to becoming the premier district in producing quality student-athletes, competitive athletic programs, and will continue to strive for excellence in providing the necessary resources to support you and your programs.

 

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Weaver or me. We are always here to support you and are dedicated to ensuring the success of our athletic programs.  (RFR)

 

Reminder: December 31, 2024

Family & Community Engagement
ElemMidHigh Required, Reminder, All
Student Clubs and Organizations: Power of One Day

To support the work of connecting students to meaningful experiences through school-based clubs and organizations, school teams have been asked to host at least one Power of One Day within the first month of school. During this time, school teams will provide opportunities for students to sign-up for school-based clubs and organizations. School teams may consider structuring these opportunities in a scheduled club day, sign-up fair, during homerooms, lunches, etc. 

Please submit the date for your school’s Power of One Day here: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=lBwpK7Bet0SJ6kuvFuzEqVwhYSiFtilPoAZhWEVp9K1URjI1TTNLQVFIM0VZUDIxNVI4TzBBTjFTNS4u

On or before September 4, students are asked to complete the Power of One Day survey to provide feedback. 

Link to survey: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=lBwpK7Bet0SJ6kuvFuzEqWgVRPpgApRLo4j8kdwWGsxUM05MS1dTVThTTFJNRk1OTk9KWElHTVZHQy4u&origin=lprLink

Reminder: September 4, 2024

All Required, All
Tennessee Student Mock Election : From the Tennessee Secretary of State Tre

Sign-up today for the Tennessee Student Mock Election. The mock election is a non-partisan, educational experience that gives Tennessee students a chance to learn how elected officials are selected. All Tennessee students are welcome to participate.

1) Sign your school up online

2) Review our lesson plans and resources

Topics: Citizenship, Roles of Elected Officials, Campaigning, The Voting Process, State & Local Government, The Constitution, and Colonial Government

3) Gather resources provided by our office

Each participating school will be provided the following resources:

A PDF of a mock ballot that can be printed (which will be sent via email).

"I Voted" stickers (which will be sent via mail).

A Student Mock Election "I Voted" sign (which is available to download).

4) Conduct your mock election

The Secretary of State’s office will provide printable mock election ballots. However, schools may conduct their mock election in whatever manner works best for their students.

5) Report your school's results

Results can start to be reported when the “Early Voting” period begins on October 16, 2024, and must be submitted by October 29, 2024. Instructions for reporting will be provided to each school’s designated contact via email.

MidHigh Required, Reminder, All
Selection of Student Congress 2024-2025

 TO:            High School Principals & Professional School Counselors

                  Middle School Principals & Professional School Counselors

FROM:     Janice McDaniel, Student Leadership Manager

 

Memphis Shelby County Schools Department of Student Experiences is asking each high school to select two (2) students  (11th & 12th  grade )  and each middle school one (1) 8th grade student to serve as Student Congress representatives for the 2024-2025 academic year.  Please include those students who served last year if they are still enrolled at your site.

The Student Congress is a mechanism for increasing student voice, and its primary function is to provide a platform for students to refine and build upon their leadership skills, create passionate global leaders, and empower students to create positive change.

Student Congress Retreat (High School Students - 11th & 12th graders)

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Concourse Crosstown Memphis Teacher Residency  (MTR)

1350 Concourse Ave, Suite 366

Memphis, TN 38104  

Student Congress Retreat   (Middle School Students - 8th graders)

Thursday, September 12, 2024

8:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

Concourse Crosstown Memphis Teacher Residency  (MTR)

1350 Concourse Ave, Suite 366

Memphis, TN 38104  

Students should dress in comfortable clothes as we will participate in team-building activities. Boxed breakfast and lunch will be provided for high school students on Wednesday, September 11th; lunch for middle school students on Thursday, September 12th.  

 

It is important that each school has representation on the Student Congress. If you have any questions or concerns, please email Janice McDaniel at johnsonjm2@scsk12.org or call at 416-4874.

Please have your student representatives click on the link below and complete the form by Friday, August 30, 2024.

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=lBwpK7Bet0SJ6kuvFuzEqcEP-PJIK7RInmVJoY29gbVUQlo5VUlNRzhVS0xZM0hIUjhRUUdSMkJYMy4u

To view the flyer please click: Student Congress Calendar (1).png

 

Reminder: August 30, 2024

Finance
All PLC, Required, Reminder
School Improvement Grant Training and Work Sessions (ATSI23, SSIG, TAG 4.0)

School Improvement Grant Training and Work Sessions (ATSI23, SSIG, TAG 4.0)

The Federal Programs team will continue to provide open lab work sessions to support the revisions of your School Improvement Plan (SIP) and school improvement grant application(s). A representative from your school should attend the session(s) and be prepared to receive feedback on the school’s ‘drafted plan,’ in order to meet the September 6 deadline 

Below are the dates, location, and times for your support.

Location: TLA (Multipurpose Room)

Tuesday, September 3, 9:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.

9:00 - 9:45 A.M. - Training and overview of the revision and obligation process (REQUIRED)

9:45 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. - Application revisions

12:00 - 1:00 P.M. - Break

1:00 - 4:00 P.M. - Revise grant application(s) and SIP 

Wednesday, September 4, 10:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.

10:00 A.M. - 12: 00 P.M. - Revise grant application(s) and SIP 

12:00 - 1:00 P.M. - Break

1:00 - 4:00 P.M. - Revise grant application(s) and SIP 

Thursday, September 5, 10:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.

10:00 A.M. - 12: 00 P.M. - Revise grant application(s) and SIP 

12:00 - 1:00 P.M. - Break

1:00 - 4:00 P.M. - Final review of SIP and application(s)

Reminder: September 5, 2024