Good Bye to the Old Horse

After spending the last however long blogging on Bronco Bits, it is now time to close the door on my original blog:  Beating the Dead Horse.  Although the time I spent on that blog was equally enjoyable, and there were a few good discussions/arguments, it is just something that I have not kept current.  So, to that one reader somewhere in France that has checked in a couple of times in the last month, including today:  Farewell.  All of the articles that were written there have been uploaded (or is it downloaded in this case?) to Bronco Bits, so there is still a bit of the "Old Horse" in the "New Bronco" I guess.  If you are extremely bored and just are wondering how to spend those last few minutes of precious time this evening, feel free to look back at the 2010 and before posts that you may not have caught on Bronco Bits.  If it doesn't get your head thinking, maybe it will cause you to drift off into a dream-filled slumber.  Good Night, Readers.  Good Night, John boy.  Good Night, Horse.

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Role of K-12 Technology

Many of you know that I love the concept of using technology to overcome the shortfalls of what schools can offer.  With that in mind, I am about to offend many of you that think similarly to me.  So my caveat is simply this, "these are my thoughts, my beliefs, and you may not agree...get over it...or better yet, weigh in on the topic."  Yes, that's a challenge and a hope to get some energy going here on a topic that can really have an impact on the future of schools.

I just read a pretty decent article in the Mason City Globe Gazette on how technology can play into the future of schools.  My concern is definitely not the use of on-line learning.  I believe this is essential in supporting the needs of our students.  I do not, however, have confidence in those that are promoting fully digitized learning that would evade the necessity of face-to-face learning in a brick-and-mortar setting.  Often these are used as punchlines for the digital progress crowd, indicating that these concepts are outdated and a useless waste of time.  My argument is just the opposite.  I believe that we are dangerously close to losing the skill set necessary to survive in the real world.  Exactly what the real world is has even come under fire, so I'm here to give you the "Marshall Lewis definition" of what it is.  Yes, soon to be fully understood by all, the real world is a combination of digital communication, interpersonal socialization, access to information, trust and team building, understanding of interdependence, and a respect of the skills of each person on the planet.  So that is a smattering of what the real world actually is, but what is missing?  The bottom line is we can neither ignore and avoid technology, but we also must realize that we are social creatures.  Much of our life - whether work, family, religion, friends, or anything else - is not based in technology.

I can hold off for now expanding this concept into how it could/would create havoc and disarray (the opposite goal of technology) in our school system.  Those that are pushing to become totally digital are risking more than that.  They are risking personal identities that are so important to the human race.  So much is required of schools that are not stated in terms of NCLB or test scores.  How many times have you heard that schools are asked to raise our children.  Although that is too simply stated, the concept is accurate - social skills are developed in our school systems.  Those that don't do this create future adults that are less likely to be productive in our global society.  I believe that is why you see the prediction from Stanford University's Terry Moe of a "hybrid school" at the end of the article noted above.  Maybe he's right...that's one I can live with.

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Return of the Snow

Yes, it is December in Iowa.  We have received a small amount of snow in Belmond, but it is that heavy, sticky, road icing stuff that makes three inches of the white stuff seem like a foot.  In my second year as a superintendent, I simply hope to get as lucky as I did last year.  There is no "victory" in making snow calls.  Each one is inevitibly "wrong" as this is clearly a place where safety and education are at odds.  In order to enhance education, I try my best to preserve as much time in a school day as possible.  On the other hand, I'm not even able to consider how I would feel if there was a loss of life on a snowy road.  In any of these circumstances, it is easy to see how every call is a "loss" in advance.  It is only after the fact that any call can be considered a positive outcome.  When the best of all things come together, we have a full day of school filled with learning, and each of our students returns to their home safely.

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Administration On the Road

The Belmond-Klemme Administrative Team will be meeting with the community at various locations around the District.  Far too often, we create a meeting that is housed at one of the schools, invite people, and expect that they will miraculously appear to share their ideas.  Although this does happen, it is also our opportunity to demonstrate that we want to be available outside of the school buildings as well.  The reality of these meetings is that they are a starting point with which we hope to produce on-going conversations. 

Here are the dates, times and locations that you can find us.

• Wednesday, November 30th, 7:00 PM in Klemme - Klemme Public Library Community Room (Main Street)
• Monday, December 5th, 7:30 PM in Goodell - Community Hall (East end of Broadway Street)
• Wednesday, December 14th, 7:00 PM in Rowan - Rowan Public Library (Main Street)

At this point, we believe that all three administrators will be able to attend.  Although we do know things may come up, we have intentionally avoided nights that would likely cause a conflict for both the administrators and the communities.  Hopefully we will be successful in that endeavor.  You will be able to hear from:

• Mr. Mike Thompson - Principal of Jacobson Elementary School
• Mr. Eric Dockstader - Principal of Belmond-Klemme Jr/Sr High School
• Mr. Marshall Lewis - Superintendent of Schools

The format of these conversations may vary based on the number in attendance in order to keep our thoughts on target and at a personal level.  Planning for these evenings is very simple - we have booked locations and advertised the activity.  From there we want to be responsive to the questions of the community, give our honest feedback, talk with people about what they perceive, clear up vague areas, take suggestions and ideas, and maybe meet some people that we haven't yet at this point. 

Another point that you will notice is that there is not a meeting scheduled in Belmond, the largest of the communities that also is the home of both school buildings and athletic fields.  This is a conscious decision that is intended to emphasize the communities that are more physically distant from the daily activities of the school.  Travelling to these communities allows us the opportunity to hear what is going well and not going well from the perspective of those that have different needs than the Belmond residents.  We hope that residents of Belmond will also attend these meetings, but it will cause them to understand first hand the difficulties of doing so in our other communities. 

We hope that you will join us at one of these evenings, and we look forward to sharing what is happening at Belmond-Klemme and hearing ideas that you may have.  We are all members of this extended community of learning, and we are all interested in doing the best we can on behalf of the students we serve.

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School Board Convention

This past week, the Belmond-Klemme Community School District sent a total of 6 Board members, one Business Manager, and one Superintendent to the Iowas Association of School Boards (IASB) State Convention.  First, that represents a wonderful turnout for our community.  Only one member was not able to attend, and one did have to leave early.  With all of the things that these people have on their plates on a daily basis, I want to express how much I appreciate each of them taking making the time to join their colleagues in learning, conversing, and networking.

We heard a significant amount about the workings of a school board and what the expectations and responsibilities are of this governing body.  Also included were some basic explanations of how school finance works, which is really good as it is not a typically logical system.  In addition to board governance, there were some very good sessions and speakers.  Headliners Doug Reeves and Jamie Vollmer both drove home the fact that decisions that are made nearest the student have the most effective impact.  Outside of the home, that means simply that our teachers have the most impact and our government has the least.  At all levels, we tend to think about this in terms of positive impact, but we can also have negative impact on our students as well. 

We also heard from Governor Branstad, Lieutenant Governor Reynolds, and Director of Education Glass.  All three spoke to the Educational Blueprint of which we have heard a great deal.  Although all three gave speeches during the final general session, it was in an earlier session that Director Glass fielded questions.  It was also an opportunity for me to leave a comfort zone and ultimately laugh at myself.
Essentially, we saw yet again that we need to move forward instead of sit still, waiting for something to happen.  Again we have heard that it is imperative for our schools and communities to work together and build trust and relationships on behalf of our students.  Again we have been asked to step out of line, out of the box, onto the ledge, or into the unknown.  Again we saw the direction to abolish the current system and create a new one that is not an overhaul but a new structure.  Again we heard that this can't be done without the community (either local or as a state or a nation) leading the charge.  So what will the outcome be this time around?

A opportunity clearly worth the time, effort, and expense, the IASB Annual Convention gave us the venue to share, reflect, interact, and grow as a team.  Thanks to the Belmond-Klemme School Board team for the continued effort to support the students we serve.

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Public Speaking 101

For the first time in my career, I stood and asked a question in a room of that size.  Due to the layout of the room and my location, I was overlooked by the facilitator for quite some time, which both allowed me to jot a few notes and become more nervous as I looked out over the number of individuals in the room.  Believe it or not, given my long-windedness, public speaking is not something that I'm comfortable with at all.  So, of course I started by thanking Dr. Glass for being visible around the state and for asking the questions to those in the field of education...and then remembered that I forgot to follow protocol and introduce myself.  So from a darkened corner of the room (ok, maybe that's overly dramatic) came my unidentified voice with a compliment, a reference to a previous speaker and a question that probably sounded like a dare.  Although not a direct quote, this would be close:  "So the first goal of the Blueprint is to put a great teacher in every classroom and a great principal in every building.  Why do you believe that we can't do that now?  Is it due to poor preparation, lack of training, lack of capacity, lack of direction, lack of support, incapable individuals, or unmotivated people?"  Yes, I had the list scrawled on a sheet in front of me.  The moderator asked me to repeat the options, referencing the fact that I must have had a list.  Instead, I responded, "What I'm saying is that we have thrown money at teachers thinking that will make a difference.  We've added rules and regulations to hold all accountable.  Yet we are here again.  Why will this be any different?  What quality in our people are we trying to address?"  A little bit of almost conversation allowed me to invite anyone on the stage to Belmond-Klemme (Yes! I at least remembered to say the name of the school!) to view hard working teachers and educators.  Why do we think that we don't have these people around (note that I'm not saying that every teacher in every classroom across the state is great) our students?  Essentially the answer was that we have good people, we need a good structure, and none of us involved in the blueprint would ever say otherwise.  Good, political answer that didn't really answer the question.  Not that I expected differently, but I was hoping.  It did allow me, however, to awkwardly face a fear I have and somewhat address it.  A few individuals found me to follow up with a question of their own or a comment that caused a conversation to ensue.  Most of these were actually based on the topic and caused me to again refine my thoughts...although forgetting to introduce myself did bring a few of my colleagues around primarily to remind me of my memory loss. 

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Change is Good

In a world of exponential and aggressive adjustments to our way of life, it is with some embarrassment that I must confess that I too sometimes don't like change.  I like my routines.  I like to know what I'm doing.  I like to have a sense of comfort in my actions.  In all honesty, that seems to make sense, and it would be my belief that it would put me in a solid majority of people with similar thoughts.


At the same time, it is imperative that I step out of that comfort zone and into the challenges that exist.  It isn't hard to imagine that if you don't keep up, you get run over.  At the same time, several of us would like to do just that - stay with our current pace and way of doing things.


My most recent challenge comes after just getting a slight handle on the state reporting that is done by every school district in the state of Iowa.  Although I have never understood this bearcat of a system, it was something that I had come to grips with as a principal and now am starting to be able to comprehend at a minimum level as a superintendent.  To most of you that don't work with this system, it's OK that you don't know what it is or what it looks like, just understand that my learning curve has been steep, and I'm on those foothills of breakthrough that indicate I may have a chance.


Most recently, however, I have heard - and even seen to a degree - that the current format will be changing to adjust our approach into a more streamlined and simplified system.  Notice that I didn't say "easier" here as that is another oxymoron in the educational world - Project EASIER.  With the same intent, Project EASIER was created but has clearly not lived up to its name.  For this one, however, I do hold some level of expectation that it will improve what we do and how we do it.  The goal here is to combine several reports on which we enter the same information (now downloaded mostly, so it isn't even fair to say there are checks and balances being eliminated) into one.


Looking forward, I simply need to continue to remind myself that I need to adapt and that Change is Good.

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The Man at the Scorebook

Yesterday I received a call that stopped me in my tracks.  After years and years of service to the Belmond and then the Belmond-Klemme School system, Doug Dana has passed away. 

If any of you are familiar at all with BK athletics and activities, you know Doug.  He's been a staple of our family long before I joined in.  Doug's attributes are many, and this isn't the place to list or discuss all of those wonderful qualities.  It is my hope, however, to express what a positive impression he has made on me in a very short time.  In doing so, please note that Doug was the first person that I really remember meeting from Belmond-Klemme.

During the 2009-2010 school year, I had the opportunity to instruct a handful of young men in the sport of basketball.  One of the trips that we made was to Belmond, Iowa and the Belmond-Klemme Jr/Sr High School Gym.  To my belief, this was the first time I had been to this complex and specifically the gym.  As the girls team prepared to take the court, some of the boys players and I roamed the student center, bought a few treats and "supper" from the concession stand, and happened to gather near the trophy displays.  As we discussed the photos and awards in the case, we tried to determine the year that the Belmond and Klemme  schools officially joined into one school, or at least one team.  While we pointed and asked each other questions, an individual shuffled up behind us and joined the conversation.  Not only did he identify the answers to our questions, he proceeded to point to teams and individuals in the pictures and relay their team and individual statistics.  In all honesty, it was my initial belief that he was making up numbers and statistics on the fly, but then he actually repeated a few of them in the list he was giving us, and I realized that he really did have all of this information in his head.  It was probably close to 15 minutes that we talked, the athletes and myself standing in awe of the statistical capability we were seeing displayed.  Then with a simple, "Well, I better get going - got a job to do," the man quietly walked away with our thanks and basic best wishes. 

A few minutes later, the team and I went in to support our girls' team, and the starting lineups began.  With a clarity and confidence, the teams were introduced and I noticed that the person doing so was the same person from the hallway.  I now knew the job he was going to do when he left us by the trophy case.  What really hit me was after the National Anthem was sung, I wholeheartedly expected to see him leave the position he had taken to introduce the teams.  Instead, I realized that this same man was also keeping the scorebook.  I'll tell you that the boys' game came down to a final shot and that it was a tornado of activity from the beginning, meaning an intense time at the scorer's table.  I didn't talk to him after the game, but I did see him pack up and leave the gym - now knowing that in all likeliness he was heading to the office to call in scores and finalize stats for the coaches.

Is there anything flat out "amazing" in all of what he did on this evening?  Outside of the impressive statistical mind and memory, probably not.  But at the time I was impressed.  Now later I am even more impressed as I think about how he did this day in day out, night after night, activity after activity, year after year.  In just one night, I personally experienced a helpful ambassador, an announcer, a statistician, and a scorekeeper that did what was needed to make that particular evening work.  More than that, to me, he made it a memorable one, and I appreciate that very much.  I've always enjoyed experiencing someone doing a job well, whatever that job may be, and Doug Dana did just that.  I'll smile when remembering a lot about Doug, and he'll always be the "Man at the Scorebook" to me.

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Elections for Board and ISL

This upcoming TUESDAY is an important day for Belmond-Klemme CSD, the communities and people of the district, and most importantly the students served. 

We have five seats open for our seven member Board of Education.  As a summary, three are running uncontested (1, 3, and 4), one will be selected as a write-in as no candidate filed papers to be on the ballot (2), and one is a contested race of two individuals (5).  Our two returning Board Members were elected to fill the at-large positions, which continue for two more years.  These are volunteer positions that carry a great deal of responsibility and often times headaches, and I want to express my thanks to the members of the Board for their guidance, effort, and support of our school.  They deserve our appreciation and thanks for doing the job they do.

Two other items are on the ballot, and both are aimed at maintaining a levy that has been in place for some time.  Although they are distinctly different, they are both aimed at supporting the overall educational effort.

NIACC is asking to maintain their Instructional Equipment Levy.  Due to the large amount of property encompassed by the NIACC district, the rate is very low, translating to just under $3 of annual tax for a residence with a valuation of $100,000.

Our local Belmond-Klemme Community School District is also asking to continue a long-standing levy.  The Instructional Support Levy (ISL) is locally generated and will again be placed on the ballot on the 13^th. 

To expand a little bit on the particulars:

This levy DIRECTLY IMPACTS our school and our community, including what we are able to do for students on a daily basis.  The funds generated from the ISL totaled $430,001 this past year, meaning it is a VERY SIGNIFICANT portion of our support.  Of this amount, $249,332 was generated in property tax, which translates to just under $100 of annual tax for a residence with a valuation of $100,000.  Another portion comes from a 3% surtax on our local incomes, which totaled $94,239.  In addition to this, the state has a portion that is supported from a formula of participating schools, which contributed $86,430 to our cause from non-local sources.  In other words, we support $343,571 locally, and the state kicks in the $86,430 to meet the $430,001 figure.  The BEST part for Belmond-Klemme, however, is that this money actually creates Spending Authority.  Losing Spending Authority is a greater threat to us than losing the actual cash.  As it can be somewhat complex, for the time being, let me explain it simply – Spending Authority is a formula driven limit on what we can spend regardless of our cash status.  Ours has been significantly declining every year since 2004, and we are attempting to turn that tide.  To make that progress, it is very important not to lose this funding stream.  As a community, I hope that we choose to continue to serve our students by voting “YES” on the Belmond-Klemme ISL on September 13^th. 

Belmond-Klemme is not alone in the need to vote on behalf of our students.  Other districts see similar items on the ballot this year.  Please take the time to understand the issues, ask questions from school officials, and most importantly go to your polling place to support the students of your district. 

Let me end this short post with an invitation, knowing full well the time crunch this may create:

I will be in the LMC at the Belmond-Klemme Jr/Sr High School Friday morning, Sept 9^th from 6AM to 8AM to try and answer questions that you may have.  Please feel free to attend and contribute to the conversation. 

Thanks for your continued support.  BRONCO PRIDE!

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Bus Safety Is NOT an Optional Activity

In a very timely manner, the Iowa Department of Education released the August issue of School Leader Update, including some great information about how we ignore school busses.  This is directly from that publication (less the fancy layout), and my great thanks to Max Christian, who ok'd the use of this information as he continues to do a fabulous job of leading the school transportation of our state.

The actual survey was backed by NASDPTS – National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services - and we thank them for their efforts.

School bus stop arm violation survey Earlier this spring, Iowa school districts were urged to be part of a
nationwide school bus stop arm violation survey. A school bus stop arm violation occurs when another motorist passes a stopped school bus while the bus is either loading or unloading students. This is illegal in all states, including Iowa, and is a very serious trend.
With that in mind, Iowa joined with 27 other states, and on May 11
conducted a statewide stop arm violation survey. The nationwide results were released recently by the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services (NASDPTS), organizers of the nationwide survey. NASDPTS will be working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the American Automobile Association (AAA) to strengthen the pass-by laws across the nation and to bring some much-needed attention to this alarming issue.
Go to http://www.nasdpts.org/StopArm2011/index.html to view the nationwide survey results. For more information, contact Max Christensen at 515-281-4749 or max.christensen@iowa.gov. Survey results in Iowa: Number of buses participating: 2,295 (about 46% of the buses in Iowa) Number of violation incidents: 327 (the number of times a vehicle passed the stop sign of a stopped school bus) Number of violating vehicles: 393 (the number of vehicles that passed those stopped school buses – some incidents in-volved more than one violating vehicle) Percentage that occurred during a.m. routes: 46.2% Percentage that occurred during mid-day routes: 3.6% Percentage that occurred during p.m. routes: 50.3% Percentage that passed from the front of the bus: 63.9% Percentage that passed from the rear of the bus: 36.1% Percentage that passed on the left: 97% (the road side of the bus) Percentage that passed on the right: 3% (the side where the door is located)

Here is link to the NASDPTS website where you can find more info on the stop arm violation survey.

http://www.nasdpts.org/StopArm2011/index.html

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A Little Good Ink in The Globe Gazette Too

Earlier this year (June) I posted about a summer lunch program that Belmond-Klemme was kicking off.  Since then the community, families, and students have seen wonderful results from the dedicated work of many individuals.  The Mason City Globe Gazette has included this program in an article that incorporates similar fantastic efforts of other area schools.  This is worth a look for so many reasons, but one that I would like to point out is the statistic column beside the article.  We are fighting a losing battle with finance, economy, and basic needs.  Thanks to the MANY people that have done a great job of making this work for the kids in our area. 

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What WE Do Affects Our KIDS

Moving forward isn't as easy as it may seem at times.  Especially when mired in the routines and expectations that we have grown up with, the status quo is a comfort zone that we can find in a quickly moving world.  The question is what that means for our kids.  After I am gone, what is the environment that my kids will find to be their comfort zone?  How about grandkids and generations after that?  Although I still love the concept of Iowa values of hard work and caring for others, there is clearly a global impact that has penetrated our corn fields.  We can either fight it or embrace it.  I fear the results of a fight.  This is the 5th video in a series that has explained some of the direction that technology has enabled us to access.  It is worth the look if you haven't seen it.  If you have, it's worth a second or third look. 

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What is a Milestone?

Last night we just happened to be in Busch Stadium in St. Louis when Albert Pujols got his 1999th and 2000th hits.  It was a bit like being there for "history in the making" but it also made me wonder what those milestones really mean.  Not taking a thing away from Pujols, one of the most positive representatives of the game of baseball, his 2000th hit was nothing overly electric or amazing in and of itself.  Bottom of the 8th, the Cardinals held a 9-2 lead and had played a very solid and error free game against the Cubs (yes, another “plus” for Cardinal fans).  As he strode to the plate you could feel the excitement and energy build.  The inning could have ended earlier with another strikeout, pop fly, or such, but it did not.  A brief meeting on the mound created speculation that with first base open, Pujols may be intentionally walked, but the classy decision to pitch to Pujols was made, and the drama continued.  Essentially the entire stadium was excited to see another attempt at history.  "Robbed" earlier in the game by an alert, quick, and able Alfonso Soriano, Pujols had his final chance in this game, and the crowd wanted to see it.  Sure enough, Albert Pujols delivered a hot smash down the third base line that caromed off the wall in left field, leaving him standing safely and easily on second base.  The crowd responded immediately with the gasp as the ball rocketed from his bat, the anticipatory cheers of hope as it cleared the infield, and the culminating outburst as it bounced off the green turf of left field.  As Pujols stood on second base, giving his customary look to the sky with a gesture of respect and thanks, the crowd continued to respond to the moment.  A tip of the hat, another wave of cheers, and back to the game at hand.  The last Cardinal attack was short lived as the next batter, Matt Holliday swatted one to right field, ending it with a fly ball.  No, the hit wasn’t spectacular, but the consistent march toward a milestone is.  Congratulations, Albert Pujols, on reaching that milestone and for the opportunity to do it with your son in the dugout.

Here are two other quick milestones that I believe may be just as impressive when talking longevity, although neither of them will be recorded as prominently as hit 2000:

Chuck Berry, wearing number 84 (for his age) and “Father of Rock and Roll” on his back, threw out an opening pitch.  Berry still plays monthly at Blueberry Hill and had a statue of him revealed earlier in the day.  Not to mention that he ran off the field with the energy of a six-year old, Berry was having a great time and enjoying the thrill of the night.

Also celebrating her birthday, Nina Mcartor tossed out an opening pitch, just missing the strike zone low and outside with a fastball.  It wasn’t probably a pitch that even Pujols would have been able to do much with, but realizing the lifelong dream of tossing that ball at age 100 is certainly worth talking about with the grandkids…great grandkids…great-great grandkids…???

Even though I'm still not sure what defines a milestone, maybe I would speculate that it varies from person to person, and event to event.  Some we recognize...on to 3000, Albert; some we simply appreciate...thanks, Chuck, for the memories you have made for us all; and some just make us smile...oh, Nina, to be able to fulfill your own 100th birthday wish.

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School Counselors...Not needed?

An interesting and thought-provoking article, Katy Murphy from the Oakland Tribune questions both the effectiveness of School Counselors and the cost savings of reducing or eliminating the positions.  There is some fair support on both sides of this issue, but whichever camp you choose, an open mind is still going to be the best option. 

That was my unbiased introduction.  Now here's the opinionated "real" me.  School Counselors can be the most positive or most negative impact on students than maybe anyone else in the district.  The simple difference is how they see their position and even the title. 

I use the term School Counselor instead of Guidance Counselor because of what that person should be doing.  They are counseling a student through the process of school.  They are NOT the "lay down on the couch and tell me about your life" counselor.  Schools have used them for that, and there is typically minimal training in that area, but it is for simple, quick issues or for additional referral when done right.  When done wrong, it is ineffective and even damaging to the student that is there for the wrong reasons.  School Counselors work a student through the process of registration, college selection, assessments, aligning coursework with goals, and similar events.  When they aren't doing this, they aren't doing their job.  In addition, they aren't the principal or nurse of the building either.  Working closely and positively with these people is imperative, and each should rely on the other, but the jobs, responsibilities, and authorities are significantly different.

Do I see School Counselors as important, even essential?  Yes.  Let's just let them know what the expectation is, what they are and are not, and how they fit into the team in order to work on behalf of the students that they are serving.

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Financing School 101 by Larry Sigel

Thanks to Mr. Larry Sigel for creating a very simple and effective way of looking at school finance in Iowa.  It isn't smoke and mirrors, and there's no magic, but it is an overall effective system.

Talke a look at Larry's presentation, which is intended especially for potential Board Members.

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BK Summer Lunch Rocks

KIMT made the trip to the Belmond-Klemme Community School District to share what is happening with the Summer Lunch Program that began earlier this summer.  I had hoped that we could serve around 50 kids on a daily basis, and when our first day was 200 kids and 22 adults, we had some adjustments to make.  Thanks to our kitchen staff, who were initially volunteers, for all of the hard work and positive attitudes that they bring to these students in the summer months.  Also thanks to Ann Murphy, who really did the legwork to make this happen, and was able to serve those 222 meals on day one due to some good thinking.  Check out the video and story about how BK's Summer Lunch Rocks!

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What Truly Is Relaxation?

Today I had the opportunity to meet with a small group of excellent people, wonderful educators, and esteemed colleagues.  Three of us had the simple pleasure of sharing the pavement beneath our wheels as we traveled together yet independently through a few small towns and the countryside.  Along the way we talked with some others and renewed our friendships with them.  What a relaxing day.  Thanks Jeff & Christina and Mike & Sara for hosting us along the way...and to the half dozen new friends we made while out and about.

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CAS 3

Another opportunity, another thank-you, another rewarding experience.  This past Friday, I was able to meet with a group of aspiring superintendents through the Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) program at Iowa State University.  This is the same program that I completed a few years ago, and it is in its third cohort, thus CAS 3.  When we started, there was no preparation on my part (or I believe on the part of the others either) and we had an opportunity to simply speak plainly about our experiences.  They were varied and from all segments of the spectrum in so many ways.  Our approaches and philosophies were also representative of a wide thought process, so it is my belief that the group had a good chance to hear examples of things they could do, things they liked, things they disliked, and maybe even a few items that they hadn't expected. 
One thing that I never really liked about this type of presentation is that it felt kind of like that - a presentation.  The discussion was "limited" to some degree, but the class had brainstormed a few questions that really did cover a lot.  What I prefer about the conversation style in this setting, however, is I didn't really know if we were able to answer the questions they were coming up with as we spoke.  There were a few, and the questions and scenarios were excellent. 
My thanks to Dr. Jan Beatty and Dr. Mike Book for inviting us to participate.  One of the best parts of the day was to re-connect with Cassandra Murra, one of the CAS 1 members, and talk about all of the awesome things that have been happening under her vigilant guidance as superintendent. 
Best of luck to all members of the CAS programs.

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Iowa Superintendent Pool Looking Strong

I had an opportunity to speak with a group of aspiring superintendents over the weekend.  What a chance to meet some excellent people and hear some of the same fears that I had at that time.  This is one of those positions that you really don't get the full appreciation for until you start the job.  The only thing that I wish is that we had more time.  I really enjoyed this group and they were thoughtful and insightful, but the part where I was involved was less than half an hour.  Not that I have all of the answers (or any even) but the exposure to the stories was something that I wish I could have had before taking my first position.  The one thing that I believe so much for any position, and we heard it over and over that day, is that the FIT is the key. That is even more true to the superintendency.  There are potential jobs our there, and sometimes things come together unplanned.  Getting into something that accentuates the strengths of an academic leader, however, is important because it affects so many people within the organization.  There was so much talent in that room that I just didn't want to leave.  Thanks to Troyce and Dan for the opportunity.

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Read (and Dance) Like a Bronco

One of the most interesting and exciting times for a student is when they begin to read.  One of the most powerful and useful times for a student is when they become a reader.  What other way to encourage this natural desire to learn than to get a bunch of elementary kids together in a gym, add some music and dancing, drop in an energized TV personality, and turn the Belmond-Klemme Broncos loose on KCCI's evening news.  Check out the ACTION HERE!


Thanks to KCCI, "Mr. Bob" and Marcus Macintosh for the opportunity to showcase some of what BK has to offer, our strong and committed faculty and staff, and especially the students of whom we are so proud.

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Trying some Old Things as New Things

As some of you know, Bronco Bits is my second shot at a Blog.  I will say that both have been a lot of fun, and I have learned plenty.  Unfortunately in my desire to change the name of my blog - that is a story in itself - I should have moved some of the previous posts.  They were good and had some excellent conversation in them.  Not knowing how this is going, I'll try to do that over time.  If you see some "outdated" information appearing in the next little bit, that may help explain my step back in time.  Again, I dont' know how it will appear here (remember that we are all continually learning), so let's give it a try and see what happens.

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Post-P/T Conference Reflection

Parent/Teacher Conferences can be a source for stress for teachers, parents, and students.  Many look upon these days with at least some level of concern.  Each group has their own type of worry and question:

• Parent:  "What will the teacher say about my student that I don't want to hear?"
• Teacher:  "Is the parent upset by the grade his/her student is receiving and believes it to be something I need to do differently?"
• Student:  "Will my parent be upset when they see my grades?"

These are normal and predictable feelings that each of us likely have in some manner.  If that is the case, why do we do this? 

• Why DO we go to hear about our children? 
• Why DO teachers prepare information to share? 
• Why DO we use hours of potential instruction time to set aside conversations between parents and educators? 

Does this seem productive, worthwhile, and efficient?

As a whole, I can answer that we DO it because it promotes the communication and partnerships that are essential to serving our students.  It brings teachers, parents, and students into a conversation that promotes the success of our youth.  It provides a mechanism for exchange among those who don't get naturally get the opportunity.

When done right, this is an opportunity for adults (and sometimes students) to share, exchange, debate, question, explore, and plan.  When done right, this is an opportunity that is meaningful and productive.  When done right, it is simply good for the student.

That said, it can be done wrong.  In that scenario, we tear down good communication and build defensive strongholds by issuing blame and responsibility to others and close our eyes and minds to possibilities for improvement and collaboration. 

Last night, I was thrilled to see a wonderful turnout at our schools, positive interaction among adults, and several students attending conferences with parents.  Not once did I observe any negative interactions.  For that I credit each of the adults involved, whether parent or educator.  As this is a conscious choice for people, the outcome is a direct result of the approach of both parties.  Although I obviously did not observe every interaction or sit in on every conversation, the atmosphere in our buildings indicated a mutually supportive tone, and that is what is most effective for enhancing student learning and growth.

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Negotiations Wrap-up

As a Superintendent, one thing you know is going to happen is the process of negotiating with local education associations.  It's not something that most people, on either side of the table, really look forward to starting.  As we near the last phases of the process here, however, I must say that it was a good process.  We laid the table effectively to start, planned our process, focused on "right" as opposed to "us vs. them" concepts, listened intently to each other, agreed/disagreed respectfully across the table, agreed/disagreed respectfully on the same side of the table, and generally communicated well.  Not that I am eager to start the process again, but if that is how we continue to approach a necessary step in the school year, you can count me in.  Much of this success, however, has to go to the members of the teams.  Two Board Members represented the school while meeting with two Representatives for the Education Support Association, and the same Board Members worked with three Education Association Members.  There were some tough decisions and conversations that were essential, and these seven people put their nose to the grindstone and were determined to make this a successful event, and it was.  Thanks to them for their professionalism and dedication to our school and ultimately our students.

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Impressive View

Oh how I wish this image inspired such musical memories as, "Our house...in the middle of our street...our house..." or maybe "she's a Brick...House...she's mighty mighty..." or "Doo doo doo, lookin' out my back door."  But alas, it does not, dear friend.  It inspires me, however, to vacuum the house...the ENTIRE house in less than a day!

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Our Loss at Belmond-Klemme

After not quite eight months of working with Diane Trampel, she has permanently left her position as the Business Manager of Belmond-Klemme CSD.  Diane worked for our schools for 23 years, originally for Klemme and then for BK when the schools merged.  In our short time together, we had the opportunity to share in many conversations of school, philosophy, family, and countless other topics.  In such a short time it was easy to realize that she was committed to family and friends, cared for her school, and knew that life was a gift.  Her family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances will grieve her absence in our lives, but we will also cherish and respect the time we were able to spend with her.

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Get it together...whatever "it" is

As I sit here following a cancellation of classes today and the same for tomorrow, the many scheduling issues that need to be addressed have accumulated.  It is hard to imagine that there is ever "time" for educational leadership among all of the duties that are continually happening in a district.  That's actually an easy copout...if someone is serious about their position, they find a way to do it.  Maybe what I'm concerned with is finding the right "system" to make it all work.  People's time is so valuable but they are also so needed for conversations and decision-making.  Finding the time to meet with small groups of people is as hard as making the decisions.  With so many things flying around and seeming somewhat random, how does a person organize them into a pattern that makes sense and prevents - or at least limits - the omissions that may occur?  And when that pattern gets established, what happens with a disruption like snow days?  Not my typical item here...just have more questions than ideas this evening.

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New or Old Leadership?

As of today, the state of Iowa has a New Governor...or an Old Governor...or a Recycled Governor...ok, so we have a Former Governor entering as a Newly Elected Current Governor.  Not that we need to make politics or legislation any more complicated, I just like the terminology game.

What lies before us is again going to take turns and twists to adjust to the beliefs and philosophies of another individual and party taking "control" of the decisions our state has to make.  Although I have never been a very politically involved person, I am very aware of how it impacts our educational system and the students we serve.  With lots at stake for our schools and students, my hope is that we have upcoming years of common sense, communication, and concern coming from our state leaders.

Best of luck, Governor Branstad, it's an opportunity that we all hope goes well for you and, in turn, the residents of Iowa - especially our youth.

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