Celebrating HCA: Safety Support Belonging

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

One of the most important things that I think that I do as a superintendent is celebrate our student initiatives with the entire student body. This is an opportunity to bring students' attention to the importance of attending school and providing safety, support and belonging for all. 

On October 22 of this year we hosted our first District Assembly. Like all district assemblies we greet one another with a handshake and then move into the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. These are not only great opportunities to acknowledge our allegiance to our country and respect for those that have sacrificed in order to provide the freedom we enjoy, but showcase the work of the student body as the Choir, directed by Mrs. Robbie Hensleigh, sang our National Anthem in three parts. It was beautiful. More importantly, their performance is a representation of our entire system as many of the students have been here from kindergarten up to the twelfth grade. Surely not everyone is in the Choir, but the CHS Choir is a representation of everyone in our schools.

These assemblies showcase our students as well as to model intended outcomes. In  doing so we tried to capture as many students and staff as possible in a slideshow of photos titled "Who Are We." Belonging is truly important and having the opportunity of being recognized in the slide presentation brings about an excitement of being part of something greater than ourselves. Once again, not everyone gets pictured, but there are a number of K-12 students that do. The concept being that we are made up of a lot of people, with a lot of interests, looks and personalities. Most importantly, we want to acknowledge all those that are around us and provide them with the safety, support and belonging that we want for ourselves. This is our Home Court Advantage or HCA. See the link for details. 

At this time we introduced new administration, staff and students. We welcomed them with applause. Being new can be difficult, and our schools certainly want everyone to know that this is a place of welcome for everyone, it is “Who We Are.”

Drum-line performance

Part of identifying “Who We Are” comes through traditional venues of building school spirit, not just the high school, but the entire district. Colstrip is exceptional in providing these opportunities in our school; therefore, capitalizing on where we sit during games and how we cheer our representing teams is essential. The Pep Band, directed by Mrs. Hensleigh, played the school song as everyone stood up and clapped in unison. This not only provided recognition for the kids in the band, but were able to model important behaviors beyond ourselves.  HCA continued to take shape in our assembly with the Cheerleaders, sponsored by Mrs. Keri Weir, teaching us the school song. We sang the song and staff members held up the banner with the words to the song as one of the cheer captains provided the lead. Its was definitely a moment to remember.

HCA did not stop there. The Drum-line, directed by Tod Olmstead, played. The Cheerleaders taught cheers to the student body. We chanted HCA and reviewed its tenants of “SAFETY, SUPPORT and BELONGING.” A 5 X 10 foot banner revealed the mantra of be the “I” in KIND.” (You can see School Resource Officer in the photo below as another reminder to be our very best self). 

SRO Don Purdon is the I in Kind

Fall Activity Middle School and High School Teams and organizations were asked to come down out of the bleachers to the floor to be recognized for their extra curricular and co-curricular efforts and participation. CHS Student Council President JT Baer spoke to the students about setting goals and to “Know Your Why.” Identifying “Who We Are” in part of the whole modeled opportunities of excellence. 

Another incentive and mantra reviewed was that “You Must Be Present To Win.” This concept we have celebrated the last couple years. It is all about attending school. It is proven that the more days you attend will increase your chance of success. Brain science tells us that the more days attended in a row increases a student’s potential to move information from short term memory to long term memory; thus increasing learning. With that, we start this incentive by having all students that have come to school ten days in a row put into a drawing for various prizes. Their name goes on the attendance wheel and is spun in front of the student body. Winners are announced and come forward to choose their prize. Once again, not everyone wins, but coming to school on a consistent basis increases their chances in life. Winning isn’t everything, but it is a nice incentive to work toward our goals.

The assembly wrapped up with the distribution of “HCA Rally Towels.” Rally towels go back more than four decades — to the mid-1970s, when major-league teams originally began providing them to fans as distractions for the opposing team. After that, they became popular in schools and booster clubs, where you'll still see them today.

Rally towels have grown into an iconic symbol of fans supporting their teams ― for a good reason. When fans begin waving their colorful rally towels, it can make them feel like they’re part of an exclusive crowd, and this positive vibe uplifts their spirits and mood. HCA Rally Towels are an outward symbol of our schools SAFETY, SUPPORT and BELONGING. We asked students and staff alike to make a difference and bring theirs to the next game. 

With all of that, the CHS Pep Band played the school song as the students waved their HCA Rally Towels. It is always something to behold when school spirit is displayed. This was another great moment. 

Well done Colstrip staff and students. Now go out there and take the lead: Make Dust or Eat Dust!

That's HCA Baby!

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

"Get out in front and stay there!"

The Presence of Luke Gonsioroski

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

Upon hearing the news that Baker 2017 Graduate, Luke Gonsioroski passed away after a ferocious fight with cancer has gotten me a little shaken up to say the least. It is so difficult to understand how someone that is so young and vibrant can leave this world. It was just this last spring when I watched him run the 100 meter dash at the Baker Invitational. He led a host of Baker students to the finish line. He was first. He was their leader and one of their best.

It is with heavy heart that I want to pass on my condolences to the Gonsioroski family as well as the greater community of Baker.  I want you to know that I, like many of the folks here in Colstrip, enjoyed watching Luke in his many appearances during our athletic competitions. He was as kind off the court/field as he was a champion on it.

Luke had such a presence. In point of this fact, I take photos at most of our athletic events. I try to capture the Colts and Fillies at their very best. It is not my intent to take photos of the competition, but Luke Gonsioroski's talent and presence somehow always ended up on my camera roll.

With that I want to share a few of these moments he had on the field. I also want to point out that he is and always will be a presence for time to come. LUKE GONSIOROSKI - MADE DUST! He has always been out in front and in my mind he will always be there! Thank you Luke for making a difference!

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

"Get out in front and stay there!"

IN THE NEWS: Next Best Thing To Being There

By Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

Fourth Grade students at Pine Butte Elementary made the news through the distant learning program in which they participate. It is great to see our fourth grade elementary teachers and administrators embracing technological opportunities to enhance learning for our our students.

Well done Shay Grinsell, Debi Smith, Noreen Kilroy and Laurie Neumiller as well as the technology staff. It is great to see your educational leadership manifest itself in better opportunities for our kids.

Watch the news cast by clicking the following link: http://www.kpax.com/clip/13091868/530-news-on-demand-2917-part-ii

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

In Praise of an American Educator: Dr Richard DuFour

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

The Colstrip Administrative Team attendance at the August 9, 2016 PLC Institute in Seattle.

I was saddened by the news that Dr. Richard DuFour passed away yesterday on February 8, 2016. I have had the privilege to meet and learn from him in several Solution Tree PLC Institutes. Although I was just one of many that attend Dr. Rick DuFour trainings (as you can see from the photo above), I felt a personal connection with Rick and I am sure that I am the only one. He connected with people. He made a difference.

When he presented, he spoke with a love and passion for education. In fact, his love for education brought him to the August 9th Institute that our  Colstrip Administrative Team attended. At that time, even though he was battling cancer, we were not told until at the end of the Institute. To say the least, everyone was emotionally struck when hearing this news.

Robert Eaker, who co-authors a number of books and articles with Dr. DuFour explains Rick dedication to education best in his Forward of Dr. DuFour's book In Praise of American Educators:

I must add one final, more personal note: I have often pointed out how much I admire Rick DuFour's leadership, presentation, and writing skills and just how much I treasure his nearly four decades of unwavering and generous friendship. I would be remiss if I did not share a word about Rick's enormous courage. Rick has shown remarkable strength - and humor - as he has been engaged in a tough battle with a serious illness. Even as Rick has struggled with his health, he has continued writing and assisting educators in their school improvement efforts. At first, I asked myself, "Why does he do this - why does he spend his time this way?" Then I realized it is because he is Rick DuFour, and his commitment to and love for educators and students is at the very core of his being. It is who he is, and he cannot stop being himself.

I was so taken by Eaker's Forward about Rick DuFour, that I have used the quote in his last paragraph as a mantra. Eakers says:

Winston Churchill could have been speaking of Rick when he said, "What is the use of living if it be not to strive for noble causes and make this muddled world a better place for those who will live in it after we are gone."

Dr. Richard DuFour is an American Educator that has made this world a better place. Thank you!

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

Fall Celebration: Happy Scrabbleween!

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

The Frank Brattin Middle School, lead by Principal Pax Haslem, celebrated the end of October with the "MUSTANGS" version of Scrabble. How many points for"MUSTANGS?"

Roxie Wilson, Audrey Watson and Lisa Blevins

Mrs. Wilson, Mrs. Watson and Mrs. Blevins spelled things out for me showing me what my name was worth: 7 points.

All in all, it is great seeing the FBMS celebrating this month. I can't think of a more academic costume that would involve an entire faculty. WELL DONE FBMS! You are making DUST!

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

"Get out in front and stay there!"

Emergency Operations Planning

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

On August 2, 2016 the Colstrip Public School District #19 will be reviewing their current Crisis Response Plan to ensure the best emergency management and operations in the event of a crisis. We have invited stakeholders that would play a significant role in an emergency response to join the District in reviewing and updating the current plan.  

This group is made up of approximately 50 individuals from school officials, law enforcement to emergency response agencies from around the area. This Emergency Operations Planning Team will incorporate new technologies and resources to create a new plan that takes an all-hazards approach to emergency management and plans for mitigation, prevention, preparedness, response and recovery that support the mission and goals of the District in case of a emergency or disaster.

The mission of Colstrip Public School District #19 in an emergency/disaster is to:

1. Protect lives and property
2. Respond to emergencies promptly and properly
3. Coordinate with local emergency operations plans and community resources
4. Aid in recovery from disasters

The goals of Colstrip Public School District #19 are to:

1. Provide emergency response plans, services, and supplies for all facilities and employees
2. Ensure the safety and supervision of students, faculty, staff and visitors to the school.
3. Restore normal services as quickly as possible
4. Coordinate the use of school personnel and facilities
5. Provide detailed and accurate documentation of emergencies to aid in the recovery process

Colstrip Public School District #19 is doing everything possible to provide and promote SAFETY, SUPPORT and SECURITY for the students that attend our schools.

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

"Get out in front and stay there!"

Colstrip Public Schools Recommended for AdvancED System Accreditation

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

Lead Evaluator, Agnes Smith, presents findings.

For the past three days Colstrip Public Schools has undergone an External Accreditation Review by AdvancED. This is the first time ever that CPS has been recommended for System-wide Accreditation!

AdvancED is the global leader in providing continuous improvement and accreditation services to over 32,000 institutions serving 20 million student worldwide.

The review team consisted of five individuals: Agnes Smith, Lead Evaluator; Shelly Weight, Associate Lead Evaluator; Shawn Hansen; Beez Lucero; and Marcus Lewton. The team of reviewers had 113 years of educational experience between the five representatives.

The External Team evaluated the Colstrip Public Schools based on three domains: Teaching and Learning Impact; Leadership Capacity and Resource Utilization. Each domain examined specific indicators that are key in evaluating educational institutions.

Results from the External Review Team are divided into three categories: (1) Powerful Practices; (2) Opportunities for Improvement; and (3) Improvement Priority.

The initial results indicated that Colstrip Public Schools had three (3) Powerful Practices these are positive attributes found in its school district that can serve as examples for other districts to model:

• The governing body has implemented a plan to review and address the needs of the system by devoting time during each board meeting to assess implementation of the system's strategic plan.
• Colstrip Public School District has implemented a process to identify and address the physical, social and emotional needs of the diverse student population it serves. 
• Colstrip Public School District has developed an effective structure to provide each student an adult advocate who builds a positive relationship with the student over time.

The External Team also identified four (4) Opportunities for Improvement. These are items that the District needs to focus on and make changes to during the improvement process:

• Implement a common evaluation process for all certified staff across the system.
• Develop and implement systematic procedures to provide mentoring and coaching related to conditions that support learning for teachers new to the system.
• Develop and systematically communicate instructional expectations that include formative assessments for ongoing modification of instruction based on identified objectives that consistently inform students of learning expectations.
• Create and implement systematic procedures whereby multiple student data sources, state standards and professional practices are utilized by stakeholders to regularly evaluate programs and collaborative adjust curriculum, instruction and common assignments to ensure vertical and horizontal alignment. 

The final report category is the Improvement Priority, this must be taken care of within two (2) years: 

• Colstrip Public Schools must develop a continuous improvement process that aligns system and school improvement efforts and provides clear direction to improve student learning. 

With these results, the External Review Team is recommending to the AdvancED Accreditation Commission that the Colstrip Public Schools earn the distinction of accreditation by AdvancEd. With that AdvancED requires the following:

• Improvement Priorities must be addressed within two years.
• The District must begin its journey of improvement
• The District must implement deliberate and strategic actions to ensure that every child, every day is being prepared and achieving success for their future.

Final results will be presented to the Accreditation Commission for approval and accreditation. 

Once again, system accreditation is the first to ever be recommended for Colstrip Public Schools. It is only the beginning of rigorous improvement and an intense focus on learning that will be uniform in all schools. This accreditation isn't accomplished by one or even several individuals. It is a team effort that includes all board members, administrators, teachers, staff, students, parents and community.  

When it comes to SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT, Colstrip Public School District is MAKING DUST! Well done everyone! 

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

"Get out in front and stay there!"

It's just Coffee...RIGHT?

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

A couple blocks from Central Office there is a quaint and friendly coffee shop in what is called "Alison's Pantry."  I don't go there often, but every now and then I get a hankering for something more than just a regular "office" coffee. As you enter the shop there is a dinning room to the left. If you come after 9:00 AM it is usually filled with different customers/characters than the ones pictured here.

Today, I came into Alison's Pantry a little earlier than usual and was invited to sit in the empty chair shown above. Mind you, I have been warned that elite members of our community often meet and have coffee at Alison's. The name of the group is proudly placed in the upper right of this photo.  I am sure that this is that group as there seems to be a great deal of wisdom and fun sitting at the table. Although I didn't have time to sit down today, I welcome the opportunity in the future. Keep an empty chair for me at Alison's, as I will be in.

Just for the record, at Alison's, it isn't just coffee! There is a whole lot more brewing in this friendly coffee shop. This is just an example of Colstrip community values and leadership.

Have a great day and thanks for the invitation!

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

"Get out in front and stay there!"

Goal Setting for Exceptional Outcomes

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

 One of the most important things I do as a superintendent is review our academic outcomes and work with the staff to set goals that challenge our students to perform at a higher level.

"According to research, Goal setting is the single most powerful motivational tool in a leader's toolkit. Why? Because  goal setting operates in  ways that provide purpose, challenge and meaning. Goals are the guideposts along the road that make compelling vision come alive. Goals energize people. Specific, clear, challenging goals lead to greater effort and achievement than easy or vague goals do" (Blanchard, 2007, p. 150). For more information see Learning By Doing by DuFour, DuFour, Eaker and Many.

This year we have set District Goals in Reading, Math, Language Arts and Attendance. The goals set are SMART goals. They are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound. By following this formula, our faculty was able to set goals for the 2015-2016 school year linking evidence to decision making. This may seem so simple, but it is quite powerful.

The academic goals are based on an assessment that the district has been using for a number of years. It is called Measures of Academic Progress or MAP for short. This assessment is given to all 3-10 grade students.  It measures the growth of a student and compares each student's growth to a national norm. The assessment is given in the fall and again in the spring to measure the progress or growth that has taken place during the school year.

Upon completing the fall assessment, a growth target is set for each individual based on all other students nation-wide of the same age and like scores.

In the spring, students take the assessment to find out if they reached their growth target.
Once again, every student is measured against students of like scores and age. This process allows the district to measure adequate growth.

I believe it is possible for all students to reach their growth targets. With good attendance and academic interventions at the individual level this is not unrealistic. Last year's spring assessment revealed that 60% of our students are meeting or exceeding their READING targets; 65% MATH targets; and 60% are meeting or exceeding their LANGUAGE ARTS targets. Based on this information the staff set goals to improve those outcomes this year (2015-2016).

The four slides to the right indicated last year's outcome with this year's desired results. We are changing our culture as we set goals by placing value on results. Our practitioners are "Making Dust." They are setting higher standards. I am already excited about next year as I am sure the outcome will be exceptional.

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

"Get out in front and stay there!"

Branding Our District With High Expectations

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

Wrestling calves with the smell of burnt hair and hide swirling around your face in the form of white smoke draws up images of my early experiences with branding. It was a rancher's invitation to me to help leave a permanent mark on the stock he nurtured and cared for. It was an honor to be asked to a branding and privilege to participate in the event. I have been fortunate to have attended many.

In an educational organization like Colstrip Public Schools, branding is a much different process, although the intention is the same. Like a rancher, we hope to leave a strategic mark on those we care for. In addition, we invite a lot of people to participate in getting the job done. The more people involved the better. A rancher uses a hot iron, while our school district uses tools like the one pictured to the right. Let me explain:

Branding in an organization is not marketing. Marketing an organization is tactical, while branding has a strategic outcome. Developing organizational brand creates an image or expectation of action. A well developed brand provides an image that lasts over time. School districts utilize brands to set high expectations and standards for students and stakeholders. This year, many of our school district's initiatives will be presented through our website, the social media as well as on digital signs that will be located in the lobbies of each building. These tools are our hot irons.

The screen-shot to the right is an example of the images that will be displayed on flat screens located in our building lobbies. Each will include a slide show of photos of students and school life; RSS feeds at the top and bottom of the screen that outline calendar events and reminders from the district and building level; there is also an RSS bulletin feed from superintendent office; as well as motivational videos that support the high expectations we have for our students and our educational community.  All of these item are represented in the screen-shot seen above. Digital signage is certainly a valuable "hot iron" that expands our communication venue. We hope it leaves a lasting mark.

Through technology and the use of mantras and initiatives, the district hopes to elevate student outcomes. "Make dust or eat dust" is a good example of our branding. It is the "carpe diem" of the Colts and Fillies drawing on images of running equine. It is a call to action; to seize the moment and make the best of every situation by taking the lead or the initiative. It is by such bold actions that we hope to change, grow and live life to its fullest. "Make dust or eat dust" is a statement as well as a question that asks: What will you do? It is also asks: What have you done?

Branding leaves a mark that identifies the individual as well as organization. At Colstrip Public Schools we want to challenge our students and educational community to be the very best. "Make dust or eat dust" is just one example of branding that sets a challenge before us.

At Colstrip Public Schools, we are out in the lead and it is our intent to stay there!

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

"Get out in front and stay there!"

Central Office Staff: Service with a smile

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

As many of you know, the Central Office is located in the lower level of the Frank Brattin Middle School and in that location we have some of the hardest working individuals in our District. If you haven't met them I wanted to take the opportunity to introduce you to them.

From right to left: Janelle Beartusk (Payroll Clerk), Linda Miars (Administrative Assistant), Lisa Stewart (Accounts Payable), Kathy LaDuke (Data Services), and Joanne Schrupp (Clerk of the District).

I have to say that this group of ladies are exceptional. They greet every situation with a smile. They have been a rock in my transition to Colstrip, providing me with direction and information detrimental for successful leadership. I am very thankful for each and everyone of them.

Now that you know who we are, I would like to invite you to come and see us. If there is anything we can help you with, don't hesitate to call or just come on "down."

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

"Get out in front and stay there!"

Get out in front and stay there!

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

After publishing a post about the Volleyball Team, I was informed through a Facebook connection that the Football Team lifts weights on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:00 PM. The Facebook connection thought it would be a good idea if I dropped by the High School to meet some of the players. With an invitation to meet our students, I thought, who could pass that up. So on Tuesday, at 6:00 PM, I went over to the High School. Once again, I was greeted with smiling faces and hardy handshakes. Our boys weren't to be outdone by the girls. They assured me that normally there were more guys at weightlifting, but offered their welcome just the same.

I have to say that this community has definitely put their best foot forward through their children. These kids (young men and women) are exceptional. These young men (pictured above) got out of the gate quickly. Their head coach smiled with support at they proudly introduced themselves. He knew this was the type of behavior that makes a difference in the lives of people. These guys will not only be well prepared for the season ahead, but life as well.

It is easily said that these fellas created some "Dust." Our COLTS were not going to lose ground to the  FILLIES! Together they are leading the way. Well done!

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

"Get out in front and stay there!"

Make Dust or Eat Dust!

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

Student Leaders: Making Dust!

As Colstrip Colts and Fillies, I am sure our school district champions leadership. Leadership that gets out in front and shows others how things are done. It is with that notion that I can't help but visualize a magnificent colt or filly kicking up dust and taking the lead as its competitors trail. It is a carpe diem concept: "seize the day." More importantly it is an equine concept: "MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST."

Today, I visited the gym. It was full of middle and high school volleyball players. I wasn't there, but a few seconds, and coaches introduced themselves, shaking my hand and welcoming me. This was not that unusual for me to see adults taking the lead, but I was glad to see it. I felt welcomed! What really impressed me was having a group of junior and senior ball players come over, shake my hand and introduce themselves without being prompted. I thought WOW! These girls are making DUST! They got out in front and displayed a level of leadership that I don't always see as an administrator by high school students. They were confident. They were inviting. They were pleasant. They were leaders. They meant what they said and said what they meant! They are Colstrip Fillies!

Make Dust or Eat Dust? My hat goes off to these young ladies pictured. They put Colstrip out in the lead. Watch out world, Colstrip Public Schools understand what it means to MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST! The volleyball team has not only taken the lead, but I am sure they will keep it.

Proud to be Colt and Filly! Get out in front and stay there!

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!