Finally, a little Minnesota weather, but the outlook this week looks like it will be short-lived. All of the students and parents who took advantage of the opportunity for sledding at the middle school reminded me of how much we’re missing our typical Minnesota winter activities.
As time continues to march on, please take a minute to review the 23-24 district calendar and the district events calendar (hastings.k12.mn.us). Also included in today’s update is an overview of the READ Act, including a parent opportunity to review materials, a review of guest speakers within our schools, and an upcoming opportunity for conversation with school board members.
READ ACT - The MN READ ACT was passed and signed into law on May 24, 2023. Since then, all Minnesota Schools have been working to ensure there is a plan to ensure professional development is in place for all teachers and support staff responsible for teaching and or supporting literacy. In addition, the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) in collaboration with the University of Minnesota, Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) approved five curricular options as noted below:
Curriculum Approved for Reimbursement
*Comprehensive Curricula
EL Education, Open Up Resources, 2017
*Foundational Curricula
Magnetic Reading K-2, Curriculum Associates, copyright 2023
UFLI Foundations- K-2, copyright 2022
University of MN Functional Phonics+Morphology K-5, copyright August 2023
*Knowledge Building Curricula
Wit & Wisdom-Great Minds, copyright 2023
In Hastings, our teaching staff have participated in presentations from the two options, EL Open Up, and Wit and Wisdom, which would be paired with UFLI Foundations. As the options continue to be reviewed, the materials will also be available for parent review. Materials will be available for review during conferences at each of our elementary schools and the middle school: February 28, 29, and March 1, 2024. If you would like additional information on the READ ACT, the full legislation is included for your review, Minnesota Session Law, Chapter 55, Article 3, READ Act.
Guest Speakers within our Schools:
Throughout the school year, the district is presented with opportunities to enrich the educational experience for our students. Typically the addition of guest speakers falls into three categories:
1. Required Observance: In Minnesota Schools, if a district chooses to have school in session, one hour of the day must be devoted to the observance of the day. While not required, these are days that may lead to guest speakers. Most recently we welcomed speakers to our Veterans Day program at the high school. Days that require a one-hour program include:
Martin Luther King’s birthday
Washington’s birthday
Lincoln’s birthday
Veterans' Day
Indigenous Peoples Day
2. Curriculum Nexus: Guest speakers may be included to complement and enhance specific elements of our curriculum.
3. Climate and Culture: Buildings may determine that a guest speaker would be relevant due to addressing unique issues in the building and or to foster a positive and inclusive school environment.
Recently, guest author Adib Khorram presented at our high school. Unfortunately, during the author’s presentation, a student used a discriminatory word that was heard by most adults and students in attendance. On behalf of the district, we work to foster an environment that is safe and welcoming for all. Please be assured that this matter is being addressed.
Furthermore, concerns have been expressed regarding comments during the presentation and the inability for students to opt out of the experience.
Due to the recent experience and in alignment with the district’s commitment to continuous improvement, we are reviewing our protocols for all guest speakers throughout the district.
Coffee and Conversation - Wednesday, March 20th - HS Lecture Hall at 6PM
The Hastings School Board recently created a community collaboration committee. The goal of the committee is to engage with the community. This first event will kick off with an update of current events and initiatives followed by an opportunity to engage with the superintendent and school board members. Mark your calendars. The goal of the committee is to offer quarterly opportunities.
