• VECTOR go to the State Capital Thursday, May 16, 2013

  VECTOR students participated in the 2013 Lobby Day on March 6th at the Capital to stand up and advocate for the concerns of the Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing Minnesotans. Lobby Day is an opportunity for everyday citizens to experience the legislative process. VECTOR students met with their state representatives and senators and spoke up about concerns close to them.

  Legislators “heard” about the importance of these issues through their stories and testimonies and it made a difference. VECTOR students practiced their advocacy skills, met other citizen activists, and learned more about the legislative issues that affect their unique cultural needs and united as a community. (read more)

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  Significant changes to budget and program priorities are being proposed in the Minnesota Legislature this year. The needs of the Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing will easily be overlooked unless the community and its allies speak up.

  A highlight of Lobby Day was the rally that was held in the Rotunda of the State Capital. VECTOR student, Leng Yang, was honored to share the stage with Governor Mark Dayton. Leng was given the opportunity to help lead a community united in support behind the programs and bills which benefit the Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing. Leng shared a bit of his life story including the benefits he has gained by participating in the VECTOR Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program and introduced a Senator. His story helped to inspire other members of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, legislators and other citizens visiting the Capital that day.

  The schedules of VECTOR students during Lobby Day were packed with meetings with their legislators and the senators and representatives that sit on the committees that are reviewing our latest bill. They had the opportunity to share their life stories, advocate for the issues of importance to their community, and ask for the support of decision makers that have the ability to directly impact the services and supports that are available to them.

  Later that month, Leng returned to the Capital with fellow VECTOR student, Shayne Wilson, and their advisor, Greta Palmberg, to testify in front of the House Jobs Committee to tell the personal stories of their experience growing up with hearing loss and how the VECTOR Program has helped them reach their full potential and increase their readiness for independence. Their heart-felt testimony inspired members of the committee to speak up on their behalf in support of a bill that would return dedicated funds for employment supports for transition-aged individuals who are Deaf, DeafBlind or Hard of Hearing.

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• Meet our May Employee Recognition Winner Wednesday, May 15, 2013

  Congratulations Jenny Nelson, our May Employee Recognition Winner. Jenny is a Program Facilitator in the Teaching and Learning Group.

  Jenny was chosen this month as a result of the excellent nomination submitted on her behalf. Here is are some details of Jenny's nomination:
  Jenny has provided numerous PEM (PCM or Process Communication Model®) training sessions for the Administrative Services Division, and the training sessions have always been of the highest quality. All staff in Admin Services have completed at least two full days of PEM training and many have participated in the review sessions she has offered as well.  (read more)

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• Congratulations Retirees! Friday, May 10, 2013

  The Annual Retirement Celebration was held on this for 16 District 287 retirees.  The event is hosted by District 287 School Board and Administrators. See photos.

  Anne Becker, General Counsel / Human Resources Director emceed the program with Ann Bremer, Board Chair, speaking to the group of retirees and their guests. Superintendent Sandy Lewandowski thanked each retiree and presented them with a commemorative plaque made by students in the West Education Center wood working shop.

  A highlight of the evening is the video made with some of the retirees. See video.

  Congratulations, Class of 2013! Enjoy your retirement!

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• Thank you teachers and specialists! Tuesday, May 7, 2013

  Congratulations teachers and specialists! This is our week to say THANK YOU to our many teachers and specialists who work with students and their families. Many lives are improved and changed thanks to your many skills and efforts.

  Recently we asked our teachers and specialists to tell us why they like what they do at District 287. The comments and information are being used by Mitch Cooper, Recruitment and Diversity Coordinator, as he talks with potential employees. Here are a few comments from our informal survey:

  “As a school counselor, my job is to establish a specialized school counseling program through leadership, advocacy, collaboration, and systemic change. I have ample opportunity for professional development, innovative collaboration and problem solving as well as quality coworkers.”  -Jimmie, School Counselor

   

   

   

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  “We work with a wide range of students and are encouraged to try innovative programs that meet individual student needs. In the 13 years I have worked for the district I have been able to grow professionally and work with some amazing students and teachers."  -Kayleen, Reading Specialist
  “My job has given me the chance to grow as a professional. I’m challenged with new experiences and affords me the opportunity to share what I do and how to make a difference with students.” -Jason, Autism Specialist/Innovation Coach
  	"We provide such a variety of specialized programming that makes for a dynamic workplace. I like being part of an organization that values innovation when finding solutions to unique and important challenges.”  -Paul, Social Studies Teacher
  “We continue to see each child/young adult as an individual with specific needs and educational goals. Those needs are nurtured and challenged by a TEAM of individuals looking at all aspects of the care and education necessary to meet each student’s goals.”  -Glenda, R.N.
  	“It feels good to be supported and appreciated for what I do as a social worker as well as having a district who values and understands the importance of social emotional learning and mental health for all students!”  -Alexia, School Social Worker

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