Breakthrough Fort Worth



Breakthrough Fort WorthSummer 2016Teaching Fellow HandbookTABLE OF CONTENTSChapter One: Introduction6Guiding Principles7Core Values8The Breakthrough Creed11Creating an Ideal Learning & Working Environment12Diversity12Partnerships12Chapter One Review13Chapter Two: Breakthrough Students14Breakthrough Student Overview15The Achievement Trap15Admissions Process17Role of Breakthrough18Student Expectations19Breakthrough’s Achievements19Student Summer Behavioral and Academic Expectations20Attendance Procedures35Student Absences35Study Buddies37Study Hall38Tutoring39Family Communication39Student Communication39Chapter Two Review41Section Three: Serious Business42Overall Conduct Policy43Professional Boundaries and Relationships44Confidentiality47Safety47Drugs, Alcohol, & Tobacco48Compensation48Conflict Resolution (Open Door) Policy48Abuse Reporting49Bullying and Hazing49Red Flags50Chapter Three Review51Chapter Four: Policies & Procedures52Your Role as a Teacher53Campus Maintenance53Dress54Language55Promptness and Attendance55Off Campus Policy55Anticipated Absences55Unanticipated Absences56Personal Property and Theft56Reimbursement for Materials Purchased56Copies57Computers59Classroom Technology59Transportation60Online Presence60Art and the Art Building60Classroom Boxes62Supply Room62Working with Teaching Assistants63Chapter Four Review66Chapter Five: Teacher Training67Teacher Training Objectives68Teacher Training General Expectations69Teacher Training Schedule70Chapter Five Review79Chapter Six: Instructional Expectations80Curriculum Overview81Meet the Instructional Coaches82Role of Instructional Coaches82Lesson Plan Format83Example Lesson Plan84Teacher Excellence Rubric (TER)89Classroom Observations92Chapter Six Review93Chapter Seven: Co-Curriculum94Leadership Overview95Teams & Team Leaders95Committees & Committee Chairs97Clubs101Word Challenge102All School Meeting103Cheers and Games105Chapter Seven Review106Chapter Eight: Daily Schedule107Breakthrough Daily Schedule108Morning Routine109Afternoon Routine110Friday Routine110FWCD Hours111AM Faculty Huddle111Bus Greeting111Breakfast112Word Challenge112Passing Periods112Prep Time112Team Time & Snacks113Lunch113All School Meeting (ASM)114Flex Time114Bus Dismissal114Captain Planet Time114Daily Details115Fridays115Chapter Eight Review117Chapter Nine: Special Events118Chapter Nine Review123Chapter Ten: Reference124Campus Map125Summer 2015 Teacher Roster126Breakthrough Fort Worth Leadership Team127Room Assignments129BT Shorthand130TCU Regulations & Places of Interest133Summer Calendar134-10477656197500024479252809875004242435-29210000-101600280670000INTRODUCTION TO HANDBOOKOur Mission: Breakthrough Fort Worth provides academic enrichment for high achieving public middle school students from under-served backgrounds. ?We empower students with the skills to enter rigorous college preparatory high schools and ultimately four-year colleges and universities. ?The program encourages talented high school and college students to explore careers in education.At Breakthrough Fort Worth, the teaching fellows are critically important in the “ownership” of the program. ?How we, as faculty, approach our responsibilities, along with the manner in which we interact with students and one another, determines the overall atmosphere and mood of the program. ?To be a member of the Breakthrough faculty requires a high level of energy and commitment. Breakthrough often requires long hours for students, teachers, and professional staff. ?Our success depends in large part on the willingness of all faculty members to undertake their share of necessary tasks and responsibilities.We teach more by what we do and how we do it than by what we say. ?We are role models whenever and wherever we interact with students. ?We should not ask students to do what we ourselves are unwilling to do. ?If we expect students to be punctual to class, submit assignments on time, attend assemblies, and care about the physical appearance of the building and grounds, then we must set the same standard for ourselves. ?In short we, too, must follow the rules. ?Mutual support and teamwork are fundamental to a good faculty. ?The initial responsibility for support and enforcement of Breakthrough rules rests with every member of the faculty.Enclosed herein are the guidelines, policies, and expectations for your conduct as a member of the Breakthrough faculty. ?It is important for you to read these materials carefully. ?We consider these policies non-negotiable. ?The violation of these policies shall be cause for disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. ?By agreeing to continue with your position for the summer, you indicate your understanding and support of these guidelines.This handbook also includes helpful resources, definitions, and calendars for the summer. ?Please note that all of Breakthrough is a work in progress. ?As a learning organization, we are constantly reflecting on our procedures and we like to adapt based on feedback. ?So while this handbook offers a starting point, know that some of the expectations laid within may be subject to change.Think of the handbook as your textbook for Teacher Training. ?You are expected to read and understand the full handbook before you arrive. ?At the end of each section, you will have space to write down new understandings you have come to, as well as questions you have. You will be held accountable for this reading when you arrive at Breakthrough.Happy reading!-95255390515004326890398145000-66675246253000410527566611500GUIDING PRINCIPLESThe Guiding Principles will serve as reminders for teachers and leadership staff during the summer. ?These principles help us to understand our role as the leaders of Breakthrough.Kids in Focus. ?Every teacher, administrator, and staff member is here to serve the students of Breakthrough. ?Keeping the students in focus as the ultimate goal of the program is vitally important. ?With 25 teachers, we need to be cautious of clustering together while the students are here. ?We are here for them, not to hang out with our friends. ?The Target Corporation has a term for a group of employees sticking together conversing, rather than serving customers; they call it a “blood clot.” ?Let’s try to avoid blood clots this summer by mingling with students and keeping them at the top of our priority list.Consistency. ?It takes the entire community to maintain our rules, routines, and the high standards of excellence we have at Breakthrough. ?Not only that, but it takes the entire community to do so at all times. ?As a teacher it is part of your job to help students learn the right ways to do things, from simple things like throwing away trash, to bigger things like completing all homework every night. ?Upholding standards shows students that you care, and it shows your fellow teachers and staff members that you value the work they do. Think about doctors: they must be on their “A game” at all times because the stakes are so high. While lives aren’t literally in the balance at Breakthrough, futures are.Urgency. ?Our time with our students is so short and precious. ?And the work we do is so important, we cannot afford to waste a second. ?This concept extends from the idea of punctuality to making good use of all class time. ?Challenge yourself and your students to get good work done in a limited time. Think about firefighters: they understand that the only way to be effective is to be responsive at a moment’s notice. They even drill together to be sure that they’re able to move quickly and cohesively! 100% Rule. ?There is only one acceptable percentage of students, teachers, and BT staff following our rules: 100%. ?At Breakthrough, we expect every single participant to achieve their goals and make the community a better place. ?As a teacher you need to hold your students, your colleagues, and yourself accountable to the 100% rule whether at breakfast, in the classroom, or saying goodbye to the students after school. A common expression in marching bands is that “This band is only as good as its weakest member.” No matter how great 99 people can play and march, if there’s one person who’s off beat or out of tune, it can ruin the entire performance. The same is true at Breakthrough. We are a single unit, and must expect the best not only from ourselves but from each other.280035095123000CORE VALUESThe Core Values are shared by all community members--students, teachers, families, and staff. ?They are posted in the Upper School and will serve as the foundations for our community during the summer and beyond. ?The following examples are just a starting place; each Core Value takes its shape in different ways for different people, but all Breakthrough participants take the Core Values to heart.TeamworkTeachers demonstrate teamwork when working in their departments, committees, teams, and Clubs. ?Everyone pitches in to help get the job done. Students demonstrate teamwork by reaching out to their classmates, making friends with everyone in the Breakthrough community, and serving one another’s needs as well as their own.Staff demonstrate teamwork by communicating frequently, aligning their roles to the mission of Breakthrough, and supporting one another.-11430020002500ExcellenceTeachers demonstrate excellence by pushing themselves, their colleagues, and their students to achieve outstanding results. ?Students demonstrate excellence by fully engaging with classwork, homework, and extra-curricular activities.Staff demonstrate excellence by insisting upon the best from themselves and Breakthrough participants, and relentlessly pursuing the best by constant evaluation and adaptation.03810000RespectTeachers show respect for the students by understanding their backgrounds, knowing them personally, and holding them to high standards; they show respect for the program and each other by upholding the Breakthrough expectations and showing kindness.Students show respect by treating others as they would like to be treated, tolerating differences, using good manners, considering others’ feelings, not fighting or hurting others, and solving problems peacefully.Staff show respect by understanding student and teacher needs, upholding high standards, speaking with kindness, and appreciating one another’s time.01841500Passion for LearningTeachers demonstrate passion for learning through their excitement for the subject they are teaching, and by understanding that teachers are learners as well in this program.Students demonstrate passion for learning by taking an interest in school and learning for learning’s sake, truly enjoying the discovery of new knowledge, paying attention and participating in class, and doing their homework.Staff demonstrate passion for learning by remembering that Breakthrough is first and foremost an academic program, and while we have many responsibilities and activities, our ultimate mission is to ensure that all Breakthrough students are academically prepared for top college-preparatory high schools.3771900762000AccountabilityTeachers show accountability by keeping track of their deadlines, staying organized, being proactive in leadership and other positions, and also by holding each other and students accountable for their own responsibilities. ?Students show accountability by doing what they are supposed to do, remembering their commitments, using self-discipline, and being responsible for their own choices, good or bad.Staff demonstrate accountability through transparency of decision-making processes, admission of mistakes when mistakes are made, and creating procedures and policies that help students and teachers be accountable for themselves.Courage01270000Teachers demonstrate courage by embracing public speaking opportunities, performing in silly skits and cheers, talking with parents and families, and reaching out to students. ?Stepping outside of your comfort zone is routine at Breakthrough!Students show courage by standing up for what they believe in, taking risks, and believing that they will attend college even when others don’t think they can.Staff demonstrate courage by taking charge of the overall direction of Breakthrough and making the tough decisions that sometimes need to be made.263842530924500LeadershipTeachers show leadership through their positions as Team Leaders, Committee Chairs, and other responsibilities; they also serve as role models and leaders to students at all times.Students show leadership by setting an example to others who look up to them, not being afraid to be the first one to volunteer, and encouraging and supporting others.Staff show leadership by inspiring a shared vision, empowering teachers and students to achieve the goals of the program, and encouraging the hearts of every Breakthrough participant.THE BREAKTHROUGH CREEDEvery day, at the closure of All School Meeting, community members say the Breakthrough Creed together in unison. The Creed is a central statement of who we are as a community, and provides a unifying, energizing reminder of our values and goals.We are young people who choose to make a difference,Pursuing academic success and excellence in all areas of life.We work hard as a family and a team.We are Breakthrough!Tips for Success with the Creed:Spend some time memorizing the Creed before you arrive at Breakthrough.During teacher training, practice the Creed with your other team teachers.Spend time during the first day of the program teaching students the new Creed. Practice saying the Creed in unison.Always listen to the people around you. You should speak in a clear, loud voice, but not so loud that you can’t hear others.Creed Requirements:The Creed is always said while standing.The Creed is always said in unison.The Creed is always said in a Level 4 (presentation level) voice—but not yelling!CREATING AN IDEAL LEARNING & WORKING ENVIRONMENTBreakthrough Fort Worth strives to create a learning environment in which students are challenged and supported. ?As a community, we value excellence, passion for learning, teamwork, leadership, courage, respect, and accountability. ?As a teacher, your primary goal is to equip your students with the skills and confidence to succeed in the highest academic settings. ?We do a disservice to our students if we underestimate their ability to succeed with challenging coursework. ?Breakthrough is a tuition-free program, but we do expect two things from them:1. ??????Hard work in classes and on homework.2. ??????Daily attendance.As a teacher and community leader, your job is to support students in achieving these two expectations. ?This includes providing students with challenging, age-appropriate assignments, and giving them the resources and skills they need to be successful. ?Be aware that Breakthrough works with our students for six years—you are a small, but meaningful part in our students’ path to higher education and academic success.DIVERSITYDiversity is at the heart of Breakthrough Fort Worth and central to our mission and vision. ?In all matters of personnel administration, Breakthrough will not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of sex, race, creed, national origin, medical condition, physical state, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. ?If you believe you have been a victim of unlawful discrimination, immediately inform a supervisor. ?Breakthrough is a part of Fort Worth Country Day, an equal opportunity employer.0286258000-6352165985000111823500PARTNERSHIPSBreakthrough is very grateful to our partner organizations, without whom we could not operate successfully.Fort Worth Country Day (FWCD) hosts Breakthrough on its campus and as a program of the school. ?Financially and organizationally, Breakthrough operates as a part of FWCD, and teachers are considered as employees of Fort Worth Country Day. ?Breakthrough students and teachers are very lucky to have many of the resources of Country Day available, including space, computers, athletic facilities, and staff.Breakthrough Collaborative is the national organization which sets the overall goals and benchmarks for Breakthrough. ?Our mission is carried out in 29 sites across the country and in Hong Kong. ?Breakthrough Collaborative provides support to full-time staff and recruits summer teachers from various colleges and universities. Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD), the local organization of public schools, is the main source of schools that Breakthrough students attend. ?The district operates as a partner in serving our students during the school year. ?The school district also provides busing during the summer program.Chapter One ReviewKey Terms and Acronyms:Kids in FocusBlood ClotConsistencyUrgency 100% RuleCore ValuesFWCD (Fort Worth Country Day)Breakthrough CollaborativeFWISD (Fort Worth Independent School District)Big Ideas:We teach more by what we do and how we act than what we say.Breakthrough teaching fellows and staff follow the four guiding principles of Kids in Focus, Consistency, Urgency, and 100% Rule.All members of the BT Community follow the Core Values: Teamwork, Excellence, Respect, Passion for Learning, Accountability, Courage, and Leadership.We say the Breakthrough Creed every day:We are young people who choose to make a difference,Pursuing academic success and excellence in all areas of life.We work hard as a family and a team.We are Breakthrough!Breakthrough Fort Worth operates with three partners: FWCD, Breakthrough Collaborative, and FWISD.Thinking CriticallyWhy is it important for all Breakthrough teaching fellows to adhere to the principles and core values of the organization?Which of the Core Values resonates most with you? Why?Questions over Chapter One—Record Your Own Questions Here!Chapter Two:Breakthrough StudentsBREAKTHROUGH STUDENT OVERVIEWBreakthrough Fort Worth participants are highly motivated students on the path to college, representing over 20 schools in Fort Worth ISD. After undergoing a rigorous application process, they commit to a six-year, year-round program, including the intensive six-week summer sessions during 7th, 8th, and 9th grade. ?Through Breakthrough, they accept the challenge of working hard to succeed in college-preparatory high school programs and eventually four-year universities. ?314833024828500THE ACHIEVEMENT TRAP The achievement trap is the term used to define the challenges that high-achieving low income students face in terms of attaining the education that they deserve. ?Studies show that even high-achieving lower-income students tend to apply to less selective colleges, and subsequently, graduate from college, at rates below that of their wealthier peers.Source: The New York Times, Among even the top-performing quartile of 8th-graders, only 44% of lower-income students attended college immediately following high school—compared to 80% of the highest-income students. (Source: Breakthrough Collaborative)Why does the achievement trap exist? Part of the explanation lies in the unequal distribution of academic resources within and across schools. Lower-income schools are less likely to offer truly rigorous high school courses, and even schools that do offer challenging curricula often “track” lower-income students into non-college-preparatory classes. This has an enormous effect on these students’ future trajectories.This disparity is shockingly severe in the case of math. Taking high-level math courses helps all students achieve a college degree, but it helps lower-income students at exponentially greater rates.For many of our students, who are already academically successful in their own middle schools, it would be easy to assume that they don’t really need additional support. This assumption couldn’t be more wrong. ?It allows these brilliant minds to become bound or “trapped” in fate that should not be predetermined for them. ?This “trap” takes full effect when students are enrolled in regular coursework when they should be placed in an advanced/honors track, when they do not receive proper college counseling services in high school, or when they are not provided with true enrichment opportunities and then later are not equipped to meet the expectations of a rigorous academic environment.Breakthrough targets this student population and provides high-performing, low-income students with the guidance and support that they do in fact need to be successful in an academically rigorous high school and onward into college. ?By providing every Breakthrough student with the necessary skills to advance and excel, we are offering them the tools that they will need to not only graduate from high school, but graduate from a prestigious university and even receive a postgraduate degree. ?The expectation at Breakthrough isn’t that the sky is the limit but that there is no limit to what our students can and will achieve. ?In order to press forth with this goal, every administrator, teacher, student, and family must believe that this is possible.ADMISSIONS PROCESSAs sixth-graders, prospective students go through an extremely rigorous and selective process. This process enables the program to select students who qualify for the program under a variety of categories:How the Application Process Works:COMPONENTS OF BREAKTHROUGHThe core of all Breakthrough programs is a students-teaching-students model. Promising students engage in academically rigorous coursework taught by bright and energetic teacher interns, while a supportive community sustains them on their path to college. ?Breakthrough…engages students with demanding academic curricula,helps middle school students thrive in the top college preparatory high schools in their communities,provides ongoing support to help every student earn admission to a four-year college, andcreates teaching opportunities for outstanding high school and college students.Additionally, students receive continued support during the school year through Super Saturdays, where intensive academic interventions are delivered in support of academic endeavors taking place at their respective schools. Students also benefit from meaningful field trips, which have included visits to Southern Methodist University, Texas Christian University, and the University of Texas at Dallas Artists’ Residency.For the students, Breakthrough is a six-year, year-round commitment. Your job as a summer teacher is intensive and important, but remember that it is just one piece of the puzzle. Fulfilling your role in the organization will help keep students on track for success in the rest of their school and Breakthrough careers.High-schoolers receive college counseling in the form of classes and one-on-one conferences. We continue to support students’ educational trajectory by taking day trips to area colleges and universities, including the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Oklahoma, and the University of Arkansas. STUDENT EXPECTATIONSUpon admission to the program, students and families sign a contract agreeing to the basic tenets of Breakthrough. This includes the Core Values as well as specific academic and behavioral goals. Specifically, students of Breakthrough are expected to…Attend every day of the summer program for three yearsComplete 2 hours of homework each night during the summer programMaintain a positive and academically serious attitude in school and at BreakthroughAttend all evening and weekend activities such as Family Conferences and CelebrationEnroll in honors/pre-AP courses, particularly in mathMake all A’s and B’s in their coursesParticipate in the School Year Program during middle schoolAttend conferences with Breakthrough staff regarding high school optionsEnroll in a college-preparatory high schoolCommunicate with Breakthrough in the event of moves or other changesParticipate in the High School ProgramApply to and attend a four-year college or universityVolunteer, tutor, or teach with Breakthrough upon reaching the right ageBREAKTHROUGH’S ACHIEVEMENTS90% of current 9th-graders are attending a strong college-preparatory high school. Schools attended by Breakthrough 9th-graders include:The Oakridge SchoolArlington HeightsFort Worth Country DayMarine Creek Collegiate High SchoolPaschal High SchoolSouthwest High SchoolTrinity Valley SchoolTexas Academy of Biomedical Sciences (TABS)Trimble Tech High SchoolYoung Women’s Leadership AcademyNolan Catholic High SchoolBrewer High SchoolCollege acceptances for the class of 2016 include:Abilene Christian UniversityBaylor UniversityCarnegie Mellon UniversityDrexel UniversityFort Lewis CollegeHarvey Mudd UniversityLa Roche CollegeLouisiana State UniversityMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyMississippi State UniversityOklahoma State UniversityPepperdine UniversityPurdue UniversityRhodes CollegeRice UniversitySam Houston State UniversitySouthern Methodist UniversitySt. Catherine UniversityStephen F. Austin State UniversityTarleton State UniversityTexas A&M UniversityTexas Christian UniversityTexas Tech UniversityTexas Wesleyan UniversityTexas Women’s UniversityTrinity UniversityUniversity of Alabama at BirminghamUniversity of ArkansasUniversity of DallasUniversity of KansasUniversity of Mary Hardin BaylorUniversity of MississippiUniversity of North TexasUniversity of OklahomaUniversity of Texas at ArlingtonUniversity of Texas at AustinUniversity of Texas at DallasUniversity of TulsaUniversity of VirginiaWorchester Polytechnic InstituteSTUDENT SUMMER BEHAVIORAL & ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONSIn the following pages, you will find the expectations for students given in their Student Handbook. Please read carefully so that you are aware of what is expected of them, and also what is expected of you as a teacher. In 99% of cases, classroom management is more about preventing disruptions by being proactive: knowing the rules and routines and clearly explaining your expectations to students. Please note the “Teacher Notes” in this section that advise you on proper management and follow-up.138112571120003981450-38100Teacher Note:The best way to enforce these rules is (1) model them, and (2) be around students, supervising at all times. Teacher Note:The best way to enforce these rules is (1) model them, and (2) be around students, supervising at all times. General Program RulesStudents may not bring outside food or drink to Breakthrough. Re-usable water bottles are allowed.Students must walk (not run).Use appropriate language.Swear words, racial or ethnic slurs, and insults are unacceptable.Breakthrough is an inclusive community, and we do not use words that exclude or stereotype people (such as “retarded,” “that’s so gay,” “you throw like a girl,” etc.).While at school, Breakthrough students do not joke about inappropriate subjects that may threaten the safety or reputation of the community (such as sex, drug use, alcohol, illegal activity, etc.).Use appropriate volume.Be on time!Use the five-minute passing period to take care of personal business.Be in the classroom, seated and ready to begin class when the bell rings.Students may carry a phone for emergencies, but phones should not be seen or used during the hours 8:00am-4:00pm. If you need to call home, ask permission to go to the Breakthrough Office (during passing period or Snacktime).Using phones to take photos will be allowed only when given explicit permission.Dress code:The following dress code applies to regular school hours as well as any time that students are on the Breakthrough campus after hours, or representing Breakthrough in the community (such as field trips).Shorts, skirts, and dresses must be at least fingertip length.Leggings and tights are not pants and, if worn, must be covered by a shirt, shorts, skirt, or dress of at least fingertip length.Underwear (including bra straps, boxer shorts, etc.) must not show at any time.Students must wear footwear. Sandals (not flip-flops), sneakers, boots, etc., are all acceptable. (If you are participating in an athletic club, you must bring appropriate shoes, i.e. tennis shoes.)Shirts should not reveal midriff or cleavage. No spaghetti-strap tops, halter tops, tube tops, or crop tops. No see-through, mesh, or cutout tops. Clothing and accessories must not have inappropriate messages or images such as profanity, vulgar language, weapons, or alcohol-related logos.Hats are not permitted indoors.The dress code does apply during special events, including Fancy Meal and Spirit Week. Respect one another’s personal space. Breakthrough is not the place for romance; public displays of affection such as kissing, hugging, piggyback rides, hand-holding, sitting in laps, etc., are not appropriate.Respect the Fort Worth Country Day campus and keep it clean. Pick up trash (even if you did not leave it there).Clean up spills (even if you weren’t responsible for spilling).Place your belongings in their designated space in the classrooms or cafeteria.Return chairs and desks to their original location after use. Respect artwork and posters and help return them to their place if they fall down.Report any large messes, major spills, or graffiti that you see to a teacher or BT admin.Academic ExpectationsHomeworkHomework is a key part of learning, and it’s also a huge part of college-preparatory high schools. In order to maximize learning time and prepare for the best high schools, Breakthrough students can expect to be assigned an average of two hours of homework per day during the summer program.The expectation is that all students will complete each homework assignment for each class every night (including weekends). We have so little time at Breakthrough, we need everyone to be responsible and keep up with the work.Homework is to be completed either during Study Buddies or at home. (Not on the bus, at breakfast, during another teacher’s class, etc.)Students who miss an assignment will be placed in YO! for the duration of one day. YO! takes place during Clubs and therefore students will not be able to attend their Club during that time.What should you do if you miss an assignment?-190500491490Teacher Note:While students are responsible for completing assignments, you are equally responsible for ensuring that you have clearly and fully explained their homework. This means (1) posting homework assignments on the board in the same place every day, (2) giving a printed handout with instructions each day, and (3) being available to answer questions via email or texting until 8pm in the evenings.00Teacher Note:While students are responsible for completing assignments, you are equally responsible for ensuring that you have clearly and fully explained their homework. This means (1) posting homework assignments on the board in the same place every day, (2) giving a printed handout with instructions each day, and (3) being available to answer questions via email or texting until 8pm in the evenings.You must turn it in the following day! (And it is your responsibility!)Each day missed will count as another “strike” against you. Daily Reading LogLiteracy is very important in preparing students for college-preparatory high schools and college. Being able to read, comprehend, and analyze complex fiction and non-fiction text sets students up for success even beyond college. Research has proven that students that read 20 minutes a night outside of their school work for an entire school year will have read the equivalent of sixty whole school days, increasing their overall vocabulary, writing skills, and general success in school!Every Breakthrough student is expected to read at least 20 minutes a day from an independent reading book of their own choice that is on their appropriate reading level. Students can log in their reading time anytime outside of Breakthrough and students must have their log signed daily by a parent or guardian. Every two weeks, students with perfect reading log entries will be honored at All School Meeting and they will also be honored at the end of year celebration!Expectations: How to log and submit your additional reading minutesEvery day, when you get home, set aside time to complete 20 minutes of reading. Your reading can be before you start your homework, in the middle of your homework, or after you finish your homework. Remember that your homework always comes first.When you have read your 20 minutes, be sure to write down your minutes, the date, what you are reading, the pages you read, and have a parent/guardian sign your entry.In the morning, your study buddy will stamp or sign your entry at breakfast before word challenge.Honor CodeThe basic components of honor are honesty, integrity, trust, and respect for oneself, others, and their property. The Breakthrough Honor Code is designed to uphold these qualities. The Honor Code is not only a system of expectations within the program, but a way of life for the members of the Breakthrough community. Students, faculty, and administration are equally charged with the responsibility for promoting the principles of honor and creating this atmosphere of trust.Expectations. Students are expected not to lie, cheat, or steal. Students are expected to be honest and forthright in all communications with members of the Breakthrough community. Students are expected to respect the personal property of other community members. Students are expected to take responsibility for completing their own academic work as defined by individual teachers. It is the students’ responsibility to understand what constitutes cheating. Students should assume that all work is to be done individually unless the teacher states that collaboration on a particular assignment is permitted. It is the teacher’s responsibility to establish clear expectations for all assignments.Reporting Violations of the Honor Code. The Honor Code cannot function if those living under it do not hold others accountable for their actions. Every member of the Breakthrough community has the moral obligation to confront students who have violated the Honor Code and to report the violations to the Program Director. If a student has been found guilty of violating the Honor Code, he/she is required to reveal the identity of any accomplices involved in perpetrating or concealing the infraction.Annual Signing of the Honor Pledge. In keeping with the above expectations, the Honor Code requires that every student sign the following Honor Pledge at the beginning of each summer, agreeing to uphold the expectations of the Honor Code:“On my honor, I will not lie, cheat, or steal, and I agree to act honorably in everything I do at Breakthrough.”Signing the Statement of Honor. The Honor Code further requires that every student write and sign the following Statement of Honor on every test or other graded assignment: “On my Honor, (the student’s signature).” Signing the pledge and statement serves as a reminder of the concepts that the Honor Code represents. A person’s signature is a promise of honesty and integrity.Catching Up on Missed AssignmentsThe expectation is that all students will attend 100% of the time, all summer long. However, there might be times when you may have to miss one class or one day of school, such as an important doctor’s appointment, or a serious illness that keeps you at home. If a student does miss a class for any reason…Turn in the previous day’s homework immediately when you return to class.Ask the teacher for copies of notes, homework assignments, and/or handouts you missed.Ask a trusted classmate to share their in-class plete in-class assignments, if possible, and the homework, within 2 days. For example, if you miss class Tuesday, and come back Wednesday, you have till Friday to complete the homework. This two-day deadline is considered “homework” and failing to turn it in on time will lead to students being removed from their Club and placed in Study Hall.If you missed a major assessment, such as a quiz or test, take the initiative to schedule a make-up test with your teacher. If you need extra time to work on missed assignments, you may sign up for SAFETY during Clubs on the day that you return. Check in with your regular Club teacher for attendance first.It is your responsibility—not your teacher’s—to make sure that you get caught up! Classroom Procedures & Expectations (All Departments and Classes)Being prepared for class On the first day of Breakthrough, all students will receive the following materials: binder, planner, dividers, notebook paper, pencils, pens, pencil case, highlighters, and erasers. Students will also receive a book for their Literature class during the first week.It is expected that you will arrive to each class with all required supplies.Students must also arrive to class on time with completed homework assignments. Arriving with incomplete assignments or missing materials will be considered unprepared for class.3743325154305Teacher Note:Please note this means that you will need to designate a space in the classroom as the “Turn In Homework” location!00Teacher Note:Please note this means that you will need to designate a space in the classroom as the “Turn In Homework” location!Entering the classroomLine up outside the classroom until the teacher is ready for you to enter.Greet your teacher at the door.Go to your assigned seat.Take out your homework and turn it into the appropriate spot. Sit down and begin working on the Do Now before the bell rings.Using your BT planner to write down assignmentsAll students will receive a calendar-style planner on the first day of the program.Every class, at the beginning of the period, students will write down that class’s homework in the appropriate spot during the Do Now.During Study Buddies, students will check their planners to make sure they understand what they have written for their homework assignment.SLANT“SLANT” is body language, a behavior that students use in class to show the teacher and their classmates that they are interested and involved in learning. It helps keep you alert and focused.Sit up: Both feet should be flat on the floor, back straight, head up and facing the speaker, and hands on top of the desk. Lean forward: Leaning forward shows that you are interested in the lesson and that you’re listening.Ask questions: Stay on topic and ask meaningful, interested questions about the discussion, lecture, or activities.Nod yes and no: Nodding shows interest and also helps the teacher know if you understand.Take ownership: It’s your job as a student to be responsible for your own learning and your own progress! Voice levelsLevel 4 = Presentation level. This is the highest voice level, to be used when speaking in a class discussion, or making a presentation in front of a class or at All School Meeting. It is not yelling, but it does require that you push your voice out using your stomach muscles to make it louder.Level 3 = Table talk. This level is used when you are talking with a small group of people, such as a classmate at your table. When you talk at a level 3, the people right next to you should be able to hear you, but not from across the room.Level 2 = Whisper. This level is what you use when you just want one other person to hear you; for example, when the class is working quietly, and you need to ask the teacher a question.Level 1 = Silence. When no talking is allowed. Classroom visitorsThroughout the day, you will often see visitors come to your classes. They might be Breakthrough staff, teacher’s assistants, or outside visitors who are interested in learning about the program.The reason visitors are there is to see what a regular class at Breakthrough is like. They don’t want you to change how you act for them, so just act normal.Leave the visitors alone and pretend they are not there. Even if they are a TA or someone else you want to talk to, save it for after class.Of course, if someone talks to you directly and asks you a question, you may answer it politely, but return your focus to your class work as soon as possible.-5715055880Teacher Note:The above common procedures are meant to be common and used uniformly across all departments, teams, and grade levels. This helps students understand what to expect and ensures that each classroom has a clear and fair procedure. In addition, individual departments, teachers, and teams will need to create their own procedures for the following… (see next page)Classroom Expectations—Department or Teacher-SpecificTurning in homeworkAttention signalsCorrecting work (i.e. quiz corrections)Sharpening pencilsClosure / leaving the classroomKeeping the classroom cleanParticipating in class discussionsWorking with special materials (e.g. science lab)Passing out papers Passing in papers Transitioning to group workBooks (literature class)What to do if you forgot your materialsTest- and quiz-takingWhat to do if you finish your work earlyTeam ExpectationsMoving from one location to another (e.g. walking from ASM to Study Buddies)Snacktime proceduresTeam-specific attention signals, if desiredContacting teachers after school for homework helpKeeping the team room cleanParticipating in team discussionsPassing out papers Passing in papers Transitioning to small groupsTeam points or reward systemsWhat to do if you have a special activity or party for the teamComing into Flex Time00Teacher Note:The above common procedures are meant to be common and used uniformly across all departments, teams, and grade levels. This helps students understand what to expect and ensures that each classroom has a clear and fair procedure. In addition, individual departments, teachers, and teams will need to create their own procedures for the following… (see next page)Classroom Expectations—Department or Teacher-SpecificTurning in homeworkAttention signalsCorrecting work (i.e. quiz corrections)Sharpening pencilsClosure / leaving the classroomKeeping the classroom cleanParticipating in class discussionsWorking with special materials (e.g. science lab)Passing out papers Passing in papers Transitioning to group workBooks (literature class)What to do if you forgot your materialsTest- and quiz-takingWhat to do if you finish your work earlyTeam ExpectationsMoving from one location to another (e.g. walking from ASM to Study Buddies)Snacktime proceduresTeam-specific attention signals, if desiredContacting teachers after school for homework helpKeeping the team room cleanParticipating in team discussionsPassing out papers Passing in papers Transitioning to small groupsTeam points or reward systemsWhat to do if you have a special activity or party for the teamComing into Flex TimeDaily RoutineAttention SignalsBreakthrough teachers and staff may use attention signals at any time to quiet the room. Students are expected to respond immediately to these signals. After responding to any of Breakthrough’s standard attention signals, the expectation is that all participants will be silent with mouths closed, looking at the speaker. Hey Breakthrough: Speaker calls, “Hey Breakthrough!” Audience responds, “Hey what?” and then falls silent.Countdown from five: Speaker counts down from 5 and uses a hand signal. By the time the speaker reaches 1, audience should be silent.Please note that specific Breakthrough teams and teachers might use other signals in addition to these.Bus ExpectationsArrive 5 minutes early to your stop in the morning.Wait outside at the exact location of your stop (not inside a car).When riding the bus, use a Level 2 or 3 voice (no yelling).Stay in your designated seat and do not stand up or change seats once the bus starts moving.Keep your hands, head, feet, and belongings to yourself; do not throw things or put anything out the windows.Be courteous and cooperate with the driver.Treat others with respect and follow the Breakthrough rules.If you miss your bus, you will still be held accountable for attendance. You will be given a schedule of different bus routes, so that you can “catch” the bus before it gets to the next stop. If you miss the bus completely, call the BT Office to let us know that you will be late.If you have a question or complaint about your bus stop or any other bus-related concern, please call Joe Breedlove, Breakthrough Director, at (817) 307-3837.Breakfast & Word Challenge ExpectationsBreakfast routinePlace your belongings at your assigned table.Walk to the food line.Check in with the Dean of Students for attendance.Pick up your breakfast tray.*Please note that ALL students must go through the line and take a breakfast tray. 2733040162560Teacher Note:“Word Challenge” is a daily vocabulary lesson taught by every teacher in the program. You’ll find out more during Teacher Training, but the basic idea is that each student will learn 8 words per week, and study buddy groups will compete to have the highest scores on the weekly quizzes!00Teacher Note:“Word Challenge” is a daily vocabulary lesson taught by every teacher in the program. You’ll find out more during Teacher Training, but the basic idea is that each student will learn 8 words per week, and study buddy groups will compete to have the highest scores on the weekly quizzes!Stop to be counted.If you do not want your food or milk, leave it at the Leftovers Station.Sit at your assigned table.If you would like more, visit the Leftovers Station.Participate in Word Challenge by completing two squares each day.Throw away your trash and tray before dismissal.Word Challenge Weekly QuizStay silent.Keep your eyes on your own paper. Keep working for the full 10 minutes.Any student not following the rules will disqualify his/her entire Study Buddy group.Lunch Expectations3590925135890Teacher Note:Please note that Literature and Writing teachers should meet their teams at their Team Rooms as soon as 4th period is over.00Teacher Note:Please note that Literature and Writing teachers should meet their teams at their Team Rooms as soon as 4th period is over.Going to lunchWalk to your Team Room to drop off your belongings.Wait inside the Team Room for your Literature and Writing teachers.If you have lunch detention, tell your teacher and then go to the office.Walk with your team to the cafeteria.Lunch routineWalk to the food line.Pick up your tray.Stop to be counted.If you do not want your milk, leave it at the Leftovers Station.Choose your own seats.Throw away your trash before dismissal.Walk out with your team when your turn is called to leave.3695700149225Teacher Note:Teachers and TA’s always sit with their teams at ASM (unless they are the Emcee of the Day).00Teacher Note:Teachers and TA’s always sit with their teams at ASM (unless they are the Emcee of the Day).All School Meeting ExpectationsSeatingSit in your designated team area.Sit up.Stay close together.AudienceBe quiet during presentations.Participate in sound effects and cheers.Use SLANT to show attentiveness.PresentingStay in your place until your name is e quickly to the stage area when it’s your turn.Face the audience directly.Speak in a clear Level 4 voice.Stand in a line for your Kudos!Saying the CreedSomeone will start the Creed by asking, “Who are we?”Stand up quickly and quietly.Say the Creed clearly: “We are young people who choose to make a difference, pursuing academic success and excellence in all areas of life. We work hard as a family and a team. We are Breakthrough!”Listen to the people around you so that you are sure to be in unison with others.Study Buddies ExpectationsBreathe, relax, and lower that heart rate from ASM before you enter your classroomGo to your assigned seat and begin working on your Organization Checklist.Step 1: Consult your planner.Read each class’s assignment to make sure you understand.What is my homework for every class?What does a successful homework look like?Do I have everything I need organized and ready for tonight?Have I asked my teachers what I need for tonight?Scan the upcoming week to see when long-term assignments are due.Go to Step 2 and 3 until your study is ready to consult you.Step 2: Organize your binder.All work goes behind the right divider.Nothing goes in binder pockets except the planner.Fix holes using reinforcement stickers.Step 3: Begin your homework.Work silently.Stay in your seat.Raise your hand if you need extra help.If you need to ask another teacher for homework help, you must ask for permission to leave from your study buddy. Only one student is permitted to leave the room at a time. You will have 3-5 minutes to travel to your teacher’s classroom and ask your question. -57150182245Teacher Note:Study Buddies is a time for teachers to hold students accountable for their homework by making sure students have:a solid understanding of what it is they need to do for homeworkorganized binderSee the section on “Study Buddies” later in this chapter for detailed expectations for teachers. 00Teacher Note:Study Buddies is a time for teachers to hold students accountable for their homework by making sure students have:a solid understanding of what it is they need to do for homeworkorganized binderSee the section on “Study Buddies” later in this chapter for detailed expectations for teachers. ClubsStudents will sign up for their Club preferences on the first day of Breakthrough. All students who have not previously been assigned to Study Hall will be given their first, second, or third choice, depending on space.During week 1 only, students should report to the Associate Dean of Faculty if they believe they have been placed in the wrong club. Changes will be approved only if space is available, at the discretion of the Dean of Faculty.All Clubs will have a central meeting location in the Commons or Upper School. Report to this meeting space for attendance, then walk with your group to the Club’s space if it is outside the Upper School (such as soccer fields, basketball courts, art rooms, etc.).Students participating in athletic clubs must bring a change of clothing. Changing will take place in designated bathrooms after checking in with the Club teacher. Students will not have time to change back into their regular clothes after Clubs and should wear their athletic clothing for the remainder of the day.If outside, drink water and stay hydrated!Use Club materials appropriately for their designated purpose only. Sport equipment should be used only in the gym or outside. Dismissal Gather all of your belongings and leave the Team Room in a neat and orderly state.Walk to the Upper School circle and locate your bus (or, if you get picked up by a parent/guardian, locate Mrs. Marcy at the far sidewalk).Check out with the TA assigned to your bus or with Ms. Marcy.While riding the bus, demonstrate proper bus behavior:Use a Level 2 or 3 voice (no yelling).Stay in your designated seat and do not stand up or change seats once the bus starts moving.Keep your hands, head, feet, and belongings to yourself; do not throw things or put anything out the windows.Be courteous and cooperate with the driver.Treat others with respect and follow the Breakthrough rules.What to do if you have an early dismissal or if you are going home in a different way than usual:Bring a signed note from a parent or guardian.Give the note to Mrs. Marcy before 1st period.For early dismissals, check out at the office before leaving campus. Parents/guardians must come to the office in person to sign out their child.Restroom/Water BreaksIt is absolutely essential that students be in class and other activities for the entire duration of the period. We have so little time together, there is no excuse for wasting it. You will have five-minute passing periods between your classes and other activities, so use that time wisely for restroom visits and water fountain breaks. You can also use Snack time for these breaks.In case of emergencies, all students will receive three restroom/water passes at the very beginning of the summer. These are the only passes you will get! If you need to leave class for an emergency, give the pass to your teacher. Go directly to the restroom and come directly back. Do not talk or make any kind of noise in the hallways. Return to the classroom silently so that you do not disrupt your classmates.Promptness and AttendanceArriving at Breakthrough435292579375Teacher Note:See the section on “Attendance” later in this chapter for detailed expectations for teachers. 00Teacher Note:See the section on “Attendance” later in this chapter for detailed expectations for teachers. The Breakthrough buses will arrive by 8:00am each day.Students who do not ride the bus should be dropped off by 8:00am at the Cafeteria.Attendance will be taken at 8:05am. Students who arrive late will receive lunch detention.What to do if you come to Breakthrough late, but before 1st period beginsCome directly to the cafeteria.Check in with the Dean of Students when you arrive.Go through the breakfast line and take your seat immediately.Report to lunch detention at the Breakthrough Office at the beginning of lunch.What to do if you come to Breakthrough late, and 1st period has already startedCome to the Breakthrough Office first to get a tardy pass.Go to class and enter quietly without disrupting the teacher or other students.Report to lunch detention at the Breakthrough Office at the beginning of lunch.If you missed more than 5 minutes of class, use your Missed Class strategies to catch up.What to do if you have an anticipated absenceIf you know you are going to be absent, bring a signed note from a parent or guardian in advance.Give the note to Mrs. Marcy before 1st period.Tell each of your teachers that you are going to be absent, and ask for work in advance.Use your “Catching up on missed class” strategies to catch up.What to do if you have an unanticipated absenceIf you get sick or have an emergency, a parent or guardian should call the BT Office at (817) 302-3280 before 9:00am (if possible) or as soon as they can.Bring a signed note from a parent or guardian when you return to school.-76200302895Teacher Note:The next section discusses consequences for certain actions. It is of the utmost importance that all teachers follow the same expectations with the same level of fidelity. It’s never fair to force one of your colleagues to become the “mean” or “strict” teacher; what’s worse, if you become the “nice” teacher, you’ll soon find that you’ve lost control of your classroom. It’s not about mean vs. nice—it’s about having respect for the students’ commitment to Breakthrough, and respect for the program’s overall mission, versus not having that respect. Remember the 100% rule!00Teacher Note:The next section discusses consequences for certain actions. It is of the utmost importance that all teachers follow the same expectations with the same level of fidelity. It’s never fair to force one of your colleagues to become the “mean” or “strict” teacher; what’s worse, if you become the “nice” teacher, you’ll soon find that you’ve lost control of your classroom. It’s not about mean vs. nice—it’s about having respect for the students’ commitment to Breakthrough, and respect for the program’s overall mission, versus not having that respect. Remember the 100% rule!Use your “Catching up on missed class” strategies to catch up.ConsequencesBeing a part of Breakthrough is a privilege that you earn with your hard work and respectful behavior. In order to help students stay on track and remain a part of the program, you can expect the following consequences:328612576200Teacher Note:Honor violations are fairly rare, but not unheard of at Breakthrough. As a teacher it’s your responsibility to be sharp-eyed enough to observe any suspicious work. When in doubt, show it to an Instructional Coach or another program admin.00Teacher Note:Honor violations are fairly rare, but not unheard of at Breakthrough. As a teacher it’s your responsibility to be sharp-eyed enough to observe any suspicious work. When in doubt, show it to an Instructional Coach or another program admin.Honor ViolationsViolations of the honor code, including cheating, lying, or concealing information about other students’ violations of the honor code, will be taken immediately to the Program Director. If confirmed, the consequence for an honor code violation will include a parent/guardian conference and detention served during Clubs period.LatenessStudents who are not in class on time will be sent to the office to pick up a tardy pass.-209550462280Teacher Note:Going back to the guiding principle of urgency, we must remind ourselves that our time at Breakthrough is critical. During a six-week program, tardiness is unacceptable because it not only affects the student who is late, but also disrupts the rest of the class. ?No matter the reason, a student must always be held accountable for being tardy (think back to the Guiding Principle of “Consistency”!). ?What to do if a student arrives at your door after the bell has run:Do not allow the student to enter the classroom.Send the student to the Office Manager in the BT Office, where they must get a pass.Only allow them in the class once they have returned with the pass.Before lunch, remind students that anyone with a tardy today must report to lunch detention with the Dean of Students.“This all sounds pretty severe. But doesn’t all this waste even more time than if I just let them in the door?”Not if you adhere to the policy with consistency and integrity. The goal behind this policy is that, when implemented uniformly across all classes, students will quickly learn that it does not pay to be tardy at Breakthrough. The costs of their tardiness outweigh the benefits of lingering in the hallways. After one or two occurrences, most students will never be tardy again. You will find it much easier to be strict at the beginning, showing your students you are serious; if you let them slide at first, you’ll be struggling to manage tardies all summer. We don’t have time to waste, and it is disrespectful to the students’ commitment to waste theirs. Follow this procedure with fidelity and you’ll make the most of your time in the end.00Teacher Note:Going back to the guiding principle of urgency, we must remind ourselves that our time at Breakthrough is critical. During a six-week program, tardiness is unacceptable because it not only affects the student who is late, but also disrupts the rest of the class. ?No matter the reason, a student must always be held accountable for being tardy (think back to the Guiding Principle of “Consistency”!). ?What to do if a student arrives at your door after the bell has run:Do not allow the student to enter the classroom.Send the student to the Office Manager in the BT Office, where they must get a pass.Only allow them in the class once they have returned with the pass.Before lunch, remind students that anyone with a tardy today must report to lunch detention with the Dean of Students.“This all sounds pretty severe. But doesn’t all this waste even more time than if I just let them in the door?”Not if you adhere to the policy with consistency and integrity. The goal behind this policy is that, when implemented uniformly across all classes, students will quickly learn that it does not pay to be tardy at Breakthrough. The costs of their tardiness outweigh the benefits of lingering in the hallways. After one or two occurrences, most students will never be tardy again. You will find it much easier to be strict at the beginning, showing your students you are serious; if you let them slide at first, you’ll be struggling to manage tardies all summer. We don’t have time to waste, and it is disrespectful to the students’ commitment to waste theirs. Follow this procedure with fidelity and you’ll make the most of your time in the end.The consequence for a tardy is serving lunch detention (report to the Dean of Students at the BT Office at the beginning of lunch).HomeworkStudents who fail to complete any homework assignment will be placed in YO! for one day. YO! takes place during Clubs, and therefore students in YO! will be unable to attend their Club for the day.The expectation is that all students will complete all homework 100% of the time. Continued failure to meet this expectation will lead to the following:1st Missed Homework: One day of YO! and a meeting with the Dean of Students2nd Missed Homework: A second day of YO and a contract with the Dean of Students3rd Missed Homework: Loss of special event and a conference between family and the administration-104775266700Teacher Note:As a teacher, it’s your responsibility to keep track of student homework completion and hold them accountable. This includes the following steps:Build a homework check into every class periodRecord missed assignments and tell the student immediately that they have something missingFill out a “Missed Homework” note to be sent home with the student the same dayReport the missed homework assignment to the Dean of Students as a part of your afternoon routineDon’t forget to also check for make-up work from students who were absent and late work from students who missed a previous assignmentThe nice thing about Breakthrough is that based on past experience, over 50% of students will never have a missed assignment, and most of the rest will only miss one or two. 00Teacher Note:As a teacher, it’s your responsibility to keep track of student homework completion and hold them accountable. This includes the following steps:Build a homework check into every class periodRecord missed assignments and tell the student immediately that they have something missingFill out a “Missed Homework” note to be sent home with the student the same dayReport the missed homework assignment to the Dean of Students as a part of your afternoon routineDon’t forget to also check for make-up work from students who were absent and late work from students who missed a previous assignmentThe nice thing about Breakthrough is that based on past experience, over 50% of students will never have a missed assignment, and most of the rest will only miss one or two. 4th Missed Homework: Dismissal from the summer programOther Behavioral ViolationsSerious behavioral violations at Breakthrough are rare. If they occur, they will be taken immediately to the Program Director.-381000784860Teacher Note:Especially if this is your first year to teach at Breakthrough, you might be feeling some anxiety about serious behavioral problems in your classroom. Rest assured that this is extremely unlikely to occur. Given our consistent and specific expectations, not to mention the strict admissions criteria for the program, we simply don’t see the same degree of disruption that one might find in a traditional school. Only on the rarest of occasions have we seen a student “lose control” and have a serious verbal outburst (perhaps once every few years, if that). We have never seen a physical fight. The most common problem you will have in your classroom will likely be students talking to each other too much—a very developmentally normal activity for middle-schoolers! During Teacher Training, we will explain the expectations for dealing with more serious problems, but rest assured that you will most likely never have to deal with these at Breakthrough. Focus your attention on establishing clear routines and teaching an engaging and challenging course instead!Check out this great article, which offers advice about handling an out-of-control student, if you’re still worried: Note:Especially if this is your first year to teach at Breakthrough, you might be feeling some anxiety about serious behavioral problems in your classroom. Rest assured that this is extremely unlikely to occur. Given our consistent and specific expectations, not to mention the strict admissions criteria for the program, we simply don’t see the same degree of disruption that one might find in a traditional school. Only on the rarest of occasions have we seen a student “lose control” and have a serious verbal outburst (perhaps once every few years, if that). We have never seen a physical fight. The most common problem you will have in your classroom will likely be students talking to each other too much—a very developmentally normal activity for middle-schoolers! During Teacher Training, we will explain the expectations for dealing with more serious problems, but rest assured that you will most likely never have to deal with these at Breakthrough. Focus your attention on establishing clear routines and teaching an engaging and challenging course instead!Check out this great article, which offers advice about handling an out-of-control student, if you’re still worried: confirmed, the consequence for an honor code violation will include a parent/guardian conference and detention served during Clubs period. Very serious violations, for example, causing physical harm to another Breakthrough student or to Breakthrough property, may lead to immediate suspension or dismissal.Social Media PolicyStudents should not use social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, etc., while at Breakthrough between the hours of 8:00am-4:00pm. This includes social media use at All School Meeting and special events such as Overnight and Fun Day.Online posts that threaten, harass, bully, insult, or ridicule another Breakthrough participant will not be tolerated. Remember that you are representing Breakthrough to others outside of the community. Do your best to make sure that what you say and do online will reflect positively on the program.Breakthrough does not actively monitor or police student social media use. However, given that many students will connect with their teachers online, it is possible that online activity suggesting illegal, violent, suspicious, or otherwise dangerous behavior may be reported to Breakthrough staff. The administrative office will communicate with families and take necessary action to ensure the safety and protection of all students.Realize that nothing you put on the Internet can be considered “private.” Self-AwarenessWhat to do when you are having a bad dayEveryone has bad days. It’s okay to feel bad, but it’s not okay to let the feelings get in the way of your goals. Here are some strategies to use when you aren’t feeling great:Be self-aware. Recognize that you aren’t at your best.Name the bad feeling in one to three words. For example, you might be feeling “annoyed with people” or “frustrated by homework.” Once you’ve labeled the feeling, don’t think about it anymore. Leave the bad feelings behind when you enter the classroom. When you cross the doorway, visualize yourself placing them just outside the door. Pretend that you are having a good day. “Fake it till you make it” and you might feel better!If the bad mood is happening because of something really serious, tell a teacher or BT admin that you’d like to talk about it during breakfast or lunch (but not class time).How to stay calmStay oxygenated: Take normal breaths through your nose.Be deliberate: Move slowly and smoothly.Stay quiet: Keep your voice volume low.Keep relaxed: Allow your muscles in your body and face to fall slack.What to do if you have a conflict with another human beingTell the other person you need to talk.Express your feelings using “I-messages.” For example, I feel _________________ (express your feeling)when you _____________ (describe the action that affects you or relates to the feeling) because _______________ (explain how the action affects you or relates to the feeling)State what you would like to happen.Seek help from an adult when needed.Dean of StudentsThe job of the Dean of Students is to help ensure that each Breakthrough student makes progress academically. Also, if you need someone to talk to, s/he is also here to help you with a variety of different concerns. What kinds of things can the Dean of Students help me with?Planning for the futureCourse selectionCollege and scholarship optionsFamily & home situationProblems with friends or relationshipsFeeling overwhelmedGetting help for a friendBullying or feeling aloneProblems with a teacherCatching up in a classTime managementHomework strategiesWhat to do if you need to talk to the Dean of StudentsDuring a passing period or Snacktime, come to the Breakthrough Office. Sign a Dean of Students slip explaining what you want to talk about.The Dean of Students will schedule a time to meet with you.Keep it private.Do not leave class or Study Buddies to talk to the Dean of Students.Health and SafetyStudents who take prescription medication should leave their prescriptions with the Office Manager to be stored safely in the Breakthrough Office (except in the case of asthma inhalers, which may be kept by the student in case of emergency).For any kind of medical issue: unless it is a major emergency, you will need to use a restroom/water pass in order to leave class. Take care of business during passing periods.If you have a headache, first try drinking some water and waiting at least one class period. If it doesn’t go away, then you can come to the office and receive Tylenol or Advil if your parent/guardian has signed permission on your medical release form.If you get a small cut or blister, go to the bathroom to wash it, then use the classroom box of Band-Aids.If you need feminine supplies, come to the Office Manager in the BT Office.If you feel so sick you cannot continue with the day, come to the Breakthrough Office and talk to the Office Manager so that she can call a parent or guardian to come pick you up. Make sure to take responsibility for any classes that you miss. -180975296545Teacher Note:See the section on “Safety” in the following chapter for detailed expectations for teachers. 00Teacher Note:See the section on “Safety” in the following chapter for detailed expectations for teachers. End of student handbookATTENDANCE PROCEDURESAll teachers are responsible for taking attendance …every class period by documenting absences in their Daily Details binder for your own personal record, andduring first period and Clubs for official records.Official attendance for the day should be taken by all first period teachers and club sponsors by marking the attendance sheet posted on your door or other designated area (i.e., dropping your attendance sheet off at the office before going to the soccer field) . Attendance should be taken as follows: 1. Greet your students at the door so that you make one-on-one contact with every student.2. Quickly mark your attendance sheet (attached to your classroom door) using the following codes:P-PresentA-Absent3. Follow up with all attendance information in your Daily Details binder.Keeping an accurate attendance record is very important to a program as large as Breakthrough, especially since we function similar to a regular school would throughout the school year. ?In order to ensure that we are accounting for every student, it is important that you be sure to mark each student on your attendance sheet properly. ?When students are not present, the Office Manager will make a phone call home to check on the student, if a student is marked absent when they were actually present, we may cause families to worry and we also may look irresponsible as an organization. ?The Office Manager will address all immediate concerns with absences and forward along information regarding those that have excessive absences to the Dean of Students. ?If you have any questions about students missing from your classroom, please direct them to the Office Manager as she will be updating the program attendance sheet daily. ?STUDENT ABSENCESThe expectation is that all Breakthrough students should attend each day of the summer program. ?Our instructional time is so short, and it is very important that every student is present for each day. ?We ask that you help reinforce this expectation in your conversations with students and families. ?Students are permitted a maximum of two absences in case of illness and family emergency. ?These absences should be documented. ?As a teacher, your daily responsibilities include:Record attendance daily for all students during first period and clubs.Ensure that any notes from parents/guardians or doctors get directly to the Office Manager as soon as possible.Keep all handouts, homework, notes, VIPs, etc., in a designated place in the classroom so that students know where to find extra copies.What if a student is absent?Extended absences:If a student misses more than two days due to extended illness, family emergency, or any other reason, a special conference with the Dean of Students will be required to create a plan for catching up. ?Please be proactive. ?Talk with your team teachers and Team municate with the Dean of Students about your concerns. ?Prepare materials and review lesson plans from missed days so that you know what the student needs to catch up on. ?Be available and flexible in the event of any special conferences.Breakthrough is making special efforts to communicate the attendance expectations to students and families. ?Sometimes the expectations are not clear and families may be under the impression that it is okay to miss Breakthrough for family vacations or other programs. ?If you hear from a student or family that they have plans to miss Breakthrough, please do the following:116205010985500Everyone is at Breakthrough because they applied and were selected through a competitive process. ?We believe that everyone will benefit if we maintain our high expectations for attendance. ?Your support is an important part of this expectation.STUDY BUDDIESStudy Buddies is the advisory system at Breakthrough. It is a space for students to get the practice they need to balance their academic life. This is probably the first time our students have received a consistent homework load of 2 hours every night. We want to help build healthy study habits, perseverance, and grit to allow our students to not only be successful here at Breakthrough, but in their academic life. Each teaching fellow will have 4-5 “Study Buddies” that will remain within your group throughout the summer. Your Study Buddies will be students who are on your team and in your classes, and you will be primarily responsible for ensuring their study skills and time management habits are on track. Every day from Monday through Thursday, we have a 40-minute “Study Buddy” class period. The expectation for students is that every day, they will:Organize their binder,Consult their planner, andBegin their homework.The expectation for teachers is that you will:Sit with your small group of Study Buddies throughout the entire class period; teachers and students should move their desks into small circles, Ensure that each of your students is following the above guidelines,Then, when needed, provide follow-up support for students seeking extra help from you.During Study Buddies, teachers are allowed to grade papers, lesson plan or read a book. Keep all electronics stored away. Students are allowed to leave the classroom to ask another teacher a homework question, but only one student at a time is allowed to leave the classroom. Student have 3-5 minutes to travel to their destination, ask their question, and return back to their Study Buddy room.Study Buddies Evaluation ChecklistOnce a week during the summer, your Study Buddy classroom will be observed and evaluated by your instructional coach to help provide accountability for you and the students. You will be held to the following standards: RoutinesTeacher has established specific, explicit expectations for entering the room, finding your seat, working quietly and independently, getting materials, etc.CorrectionIf students do not follow routines, the teacher swiftly and quietly corrects the behavior. OR: No correction is needed because all students are following the routines.ReinforcementThe teacher reinforces appropriate behavior through verbal or nonverbal cues.SeatingStudents are sitting in desks appropriately (six legs on the floor, no students lying down, desks are in a circle, etc). Teacher is in class at all times.Noise LevelThe room is quiet; the only conversations are whisper-level between one teacher and one student or two students (not large groups). No music is playing.FocusStudents and teachers are focused on their Breakthrough work. No phones/music players, doodling, daydreaming, or napping allowed. This includes teachers. Teacher-student interactionThe teacher is present at all times and actively engaged with students by sitting in the circle with anizationStudent binders are maintained neatly with papers in appropriate dividers.AgendaDaily agendas are visible and are used by students to look up their homework and keep track of tasks.VisitorsStudents and teachers appropriately respond to visitors by politely ignoring them unless directly spoken to.Study Buddies Do’s and Don’ts for TeachersWhat about students who need extra help?Breakthrough’s instructional strategies are designed to ensure that 100% of students master the objective, every day, in every class. The goal should be to prepare all students to use their Study Buddy time for organization, time management, and getting started on homework. If you are finding yourself tutoring every day during Study Buddies, this is a symptom that something is not working the way it should in your classroom. Your Opportunity!Students who miss a homework assignment will be placed in Your Opportunity! (YO!) for one day. The Student Services committee members will run YO!. Part class, part small-group mentoring, YO! provides students with time to get organized and time management skills that they need to be successful.left19050YO! DetailsWhen a student misses a homework, it is important for us to figure out why they missed said homework and provide students with tools to help support them. In YO! we determine if the student missed their homework due to the following reasons:Time ManagementOrganizationPlanner EtiquetteIncomplete Homework (student didn’t understand the assignment)EffortThe structure of YO! will provide students the opportunity to reflect on the reason behind their missed homework, complete an independent activity to increase study skills and habits, and at the end, complete their missing homework.00YO! DetailsWhen a student misses a homework, it is important for us to figure out why they missed said homework and provide students with tools to help support them. In YO! we determine if the student missed their homework due to the following reasons:Time ManagementOrganizationPlanner EtiquetteIncomplete Homework (student didn’t understand the assignment)EffortThe structure of YO! will provide students the opportunity to reflect on the reason behind their missed homework, complete an independent activity to increase study skills and habits, and at the end, complete their missing homework.TUTORINGIf a student misses a day of Breakthrough, he or she will attend Tutoring after they return. Tutoring takes place during Clubs. It will be run by the Youth Academic Support committee. Teachers have their own responsibilities during Clubs, so Tutoring is not a good time to meet with a student and help him/her. All teachers will provide their handouts and materials to the YAS committee to help support students in tutoring. Students may not sign up for Tutoring as their summer-long club. They may only attend for the number of days until their make-up work is due (two days for every day they missed; so, for example, if they miss one day of Breakthrough and come back on Tuesday, they can attend Tutoring on Tuesday and Wednesday only). SAFETY!Students Advocating For Extra Time YAAASSS! (SAFETY!) is a new program this year. If a students feels that they need extra time to complete homework, they may sign up for SAFETY! at the beginning of lunch. SAFETY! provides a quiet space for students to complete homework or receive support with their assignments and it will occur during Clubs. SAFETY! will be run by our Lead Teacher’s Assistants. Students may not sign up for SAFETY! as their summer-long club. Every student will receive three SAFETY! passes to use throughout the summer. If a student wants to attend SAFETY! for the day, they will sign up with a Lead TA at lunch and turn in their SAFETY! pass. Lead TAs will ensure that the student’s attendance is accounted for during clubs. FAMILY COMMUNICATIONAs teachers, you will have a number of opportunities to communicate with parents and guardians, including Family Night, Family-Teacher Conferences, and Celebration. ?Please remember that you are representing Breakthrough as a whole in these instances and it is very important to always be respectful. ?You will find that a large amount of our family population is primarily Spanish-speaking; in these situations, we will make sure that you are provided with someone who can help you with translating, especially during family-teacher conferences. Most teams will have at least one teacher who is fluent in Spanish; if there is not such a person on your team, you will be provided with a translator.In other instances, parents may call if they have general questions about Breakthrough. If you are able to answer with 100% positivity, go ahead and answer the question. ??If you are not certain or do not feel comfortable with the question/s, please direct them to an administrator. ?Make sure that the students and parents aware of the times that they are able to reach you. ?Generally, all communication regarding special events, absences, behavioral concerns, and homework issues will be addressed by the Dean of Students and/or another BT administrator via a mailing, a phone call, or a one-on-one conference. ?A few helpful Spanish phrasesMe llamo __________.My name is ___________.?Como se llama?What is your name?Mucho gusto.Pleased to meet you.Buenos días / Buenos tardes.Good morning / Good evening.Adiós / Nos vemos.Good-bye / See you later.?Prefiere espa?ol o inglés?Do you prefer Spanish or English?STUDENT COMMUNICATIONOn Family Night, Team Leaders should distribute handouts to all families with teachers’ numbers and the times in which you are available to discuss homework or other matters regarding Breakthrough. ?Make sure that you go over the handout and let them know the best manner of communication such as whether you prefer phone calls or text messages. ?Please be aware of the teacher/student boundary that should be maintained with every student—students are encouraged to call teachers with questions about homework, but conversations in and out of school should be Breakthrough-appropriate.During the first week of classes, new students will receive a lesson in phone etiquette. ?Teachers will cover the following items with all students:Awareness of proper time to call.How to leave a phone messageWhen a text or phone call is appropriateStudent/teacher boundariesChapter Two ReviewKey Terms and Acronyms:Achievement TrapProactive ManagementReactive ManagementBig Ideas:The Breakthrough student profile: high-achieving, lower-income students.Students undergo a rigorous admissions process to join the program.The middle-school summer program is a significant part of Breakthrough, but it is supplemented by year-round and high-school programs.Proactive management is achieved by establishing and adhering to common procedures.Breakthrough has common procedures for multiple classroom routines, including entering the classroom, Teachers must take attendance every day in 1st Period and Clubs.Students are held accountable for consistent attendance, promptness, and homework completion, as well as high behavioral standards.Family communication is a critical part of program success.Thinking Critically:In what ways does the information about the Achievement Trap confirm or challenge what you already know?What expectations does the rigorous admissions process set for the summer program?How will you strive to maintain high expectations for attendance, promptness, homework, and other student procedures? Why is it important to do so?Questions over Chapter Two—Record Your Own Questions Here!Chapter Three:Serious BusinessOVERALL FACULTY/STAFF CONDUCT POLICYBreakthrough’s overall expectation is that all faculty and staff members will act as role models for our students to emulate. ?It is the responsibility of Breakthrough Fort Worth teachers to ensure that interactions among all members of the community are safe, healthy, positive, and respectful.Teachers should conduct themselves, at all times, so as to reflect the good reputation of Breakthrough Fort Worth and Fort Worth Country Day. ?Whether on or off the school grounds, teachers should maintain a standard of behavior that will indicate pride in themselves, their work environment, and the school.There may be certain behavior by faculty outside of school hours or off school property that may have ramifications in the Breakthrough community. ?Some examples of such outside conduct include violations of laws, use or misuse of computer or computer websites which do, or could, impact the welfare of any member of the school community or the reputation of the school, or other immoral conduct which would seriously impair the community member’s ability to perform his/her duties or seriously impact the reputation of the school.PROFESSIONAL BOUNDARIES AND RELATIONSHIPSWithin the Breakthrough community, students and teaching fellows are passionate about learning. ?We encourage students to develop a love of learning and encourage teachers to help them along that path. ?Very often, people who are a part of Breakthrough become very involved in the community and deeply invested in relationships they have made with others. ?Within such a powerful community, the following scenarios are bound to happen:With Breakthrough, one of the complicating factors is that students and teachers are sometimes only a few years apart in age. ?In addition, some teachers are legal adults while others are minors. ?In order to maintain the quality and ethical standards of the program, Breakthrough has clear policies for each of the following scenarios:1. ?Students get crushes on teachersTeachers should discourage students from acting upon or talking excessively about their crushes. ?This may require teachers to have a direct conversation with a student to tell him or her in a firm, caring way what is appropriate and what is not.2. ?Teachers find themselves attracted to studentsUnder no circumstances are students and teachers to have romantic relationships. ?If you find yourself (or another teacher) struggling with this issue, please contact the Director immediately and we will help you learn how to set boundaries as well as give you a forum in which you can talk about the feelings you are experiencing.3. ?Students have relationships with each otherBreakthrough is not The Bachelor. ?Students come for an academic education, not to find romance. ?Public displays of affection (kissing, hugging, holding hands) are not acceptable. ?One of a teacher’s many responsibilities is to help enforce these boundaries, so as to create a safe learning environment for everyone. ?Parents entrust us to maintain the safety of their children and uphold the integrity of a rigorous academic environment.4. ?Teachers have relationships with each otherIt is always advisable to avoid romantic involvement with your co-workers. ?Breakthrough teachers need to be mindful of their primary responsibility to teach and be a part of the community. ?Individual teachers must set appropriate boundaries with relationships. ?Any relationship should not interfere with teachers’ abilities to serve the students, nor should it be highlighted as a topic of discussion with students.Breakthrough teachers must also be aware of age differences. ?High school and college students have different experiences in terms of independence and exposure to situations. ?Teachers must be mindful of mentoring relationships they have with each other as well.During the course of the summer, you will become close with your colleagues and, because you share equal responsibilities, age differences may become less obvious. ?However, it is critical that appropriate boundaries be observed particularly between those teachers over 18 (teachers who legally are considered adults) and those under 18 who are considered minors. ?This is especially important on a faculty where teachers range in age from 16 to 22.5. ?Breakthrough teachers may be attracted to adult support staff (Directors, Instructional Coaches, and others) and vice versa ?For many of the same reasons that it is not appropriate for teachers to have relationships with their students, it is not appropriate for adult support staff (Directors, Instructional Coaches, or others) to initiate or promote a romantic relationship with a Breakthrough teacher. ?Because of the supervisory nature of these adults’ roles, it is important that they maintain a sense of integrity with the community by drawing appropriate boundaries with the high school and college-aged teachers.The Rationale:Teachers are in positions of power. ?The power inherent in their positions may cause students to believe they must do what the teacher tells them to do, or feel that they cannot say no to a teacher. ?Teachers, therefore, may absolutely not, under any circumstance, initiate, promote, or engage in a romantic relationship with a student. ?Even if “the feeling is mutual,” teachers have the responsibility to draw the boundaries. ?They need to maintain the integrity and professionalism of their positions. ?Likewise, in many ways, the adult support staff acts as teachers to the Breakthrough staff. ?For the same reasons of the power dynamic, the adult support staff is responsible for setting the boundaries and not allowing the initiation or promotion of romantic relationships between themselves and Breakthrough teachers. ?We encourage teachers to be inspiring role models and mentors as well as to develop a sense of care for and investment in their students.Teachers make a commitment to serve all students. ?Teachers who show preference to certain students cannot maintain the sense of fairness needed to serve all students well. ?When teachers have inappropriate relationships with students, they damage their reputations as teachers and lose the trust and respect of their colleagues and students.Ramifications:We risk losing the reputation as a serious and safe academic program.We risk losing financial support from donors.We risk lawsuits from parents, guardians, or Breakthrough teachers who felt their safety in this community was violated.Any of these program consequences could terminate the program.You may refer to your FWCD Employee Handbook for further details if you have additional questions about inappropriate relationships.??? What to do if you know—or suspect—that there is a romantic relationship, or unclear professional boundaries, between a student and teacher or teacher and program adult:CONFIDENTIALITYEvery Breakthrough Fort Worth teacher is responsible for strictly guarding the privacy rights concerning students, other teachers, and volunteers. ?What happens to children in their school and academic pursuits is confidential. ?Only the parties who have a “right” to that information (i.e. the student, parent or guardian, teacher, guidance counselor, etc.) may discuss that individual child and his or her difficulties. ?This is a legal as well as an ethical issue.Given the close relationships of Breakthrough students and teachers, there may be times when students confide in you. ?You should never promise a student that you will “keep a secret.” ?Rather, you can say that you can keep things confidential from other students and teachers, but if necessary, you will have to share certain kinds of information with an administrator (Director or Dean of Students). ?In some instances, you are legally bound to report information. ?In general, it is imperative that what you learn about your student be shared with the directors as they are here year-round to provide continued support and advocacy to students and families.SAFETYSafety is a foremost concern at Breakthrough. ?We will cover safety and emergency procedures during Training Week, but a few general tips to keep in mind include:· ????????Never treat a person who is injured unless you are certified or instructed to do so.· ????????Do not leave students unattended. ?You can send one student to seek help in an emergency.· ????????Never clean or handle bodily fluids.· ????????Be aware of student allergies and health concerns when appropriate.· ????????If a person is severely hurt and needs immediate, professional attention, call 911.· ????????Prevention is the most important aspect of safety. ?By always monitoring students and being present during all activities, you are better able to ensure that students are safe and healthy at all times.Most of the time, the following kinds of injury or illness can be treated at Breakthrough and do not require a student to go home: · ????????Small cuts or abrasions· ????????Twisted ankle· ????????Headache· ????????Mild heat fatigue· ????????Mild stomachache· ????????Mild sunburnAs a teacher, when you encounter one of these mild injuries or illnesses, you should do the following:1. ???? In the case of small cuts or abrasions, the student should go to the bathroom and wash the wound. ?Each classroom box has a package of Band-Aids that the student can apply themselves.2. ???? Make it clear that your class expectation is that students should not leave class for minor issues. ?They should go to the Breakthrough Office to see the Office Manager during a passing period unless the issue is severe.DRUGS, ALCOHOL, & TOBACCOUse of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco at Breakthrough is prohibited. ?FWCD is a drug, alcohol, and tobacco-free campus.While away from the FWCD campus, it is normal for Breakthrough teachers to spend time socializing. ?It is important to remember that Breakthrough teachers range in age from 16 to 22, and have a wide range of experience and comfort levels. ?In order to protect yourselves and the program, teachers who are of age are not permitted to drink or smoke in the presence of underage teachers.For those who are of age, weeknight partying and drinking is never a good idea, as it will hamper your ability to work effectively. ?Keep in mind that it is almost impossible to keep secrets at Breakthrough; chances are, your fellow teachers and even your students may learn things about you that you never expect them to discover. ?As a Breakthrough teacher, you are a role model. ?They see you and want to be like you. ?It is unhealthy for middle-schoolers to drink, smoke, or do drugs, and so you should do your best to model healthy behavior for them.In other words, the following people are putting their Breakthrough employment in serious jeopardy:Any under-21 Breakthrough employee who uses alcoholAny under-18 Breakthrough employee who uses tobaccoAny Breakthrough employee who uses illegal drugsAny Breakthrough employee who uses, or provides, any of the above substances in the presence of underage Breakthrough participantsAny Breakthrough employee whose drug or alcohol use affects his/her ability to do his/her jobCOMPENSATIONAs a teaching fellow with Breakthrough Fort Worth, you will receive a stipend, depending on your status as a new or returning teacher, and whether you are a high school or college student. ?The following chart shows the base stipends. ?Additional funds have been dispersed on basis of financial need.High school (including 2016 graduates)CollegeFirst year TF12001500Second year TF13001600Third or higher TF14001700The payment schedule is such that ? of your stipend is given at the beginning of July, and ? at the beginning of August. ?Teachers who are staying at the TCU dorms receive an additional $300 at the beginning of the program.If you prefer to receive your paycheck via direct deposit to your bank account, ask the program director for a direct deposit form. Be sure to provide a void check to ensure successful enrollment in direct deposit. CONFLICT RESOLUTION (OPEN DOOR) POLICYBreakthrough recognizes that problems may develop from time to time that require attention and understanding. ?We feel the best way to solve problems is to discuss them openly before they become serious. ?Each member of the community has the responsibility to seek adult support staff to discuss such problems as they occur. ?Directors will always make time for anyone who feels that his/her concern has not been dealt with appropriately.ABUSE REPORTINGBreakthrough teachers are required under Texas state law to report any case of suspected abuse or neglect to the Department of Health and Human Services. ?If you have any knowledge whatsoever of suspected abuse or neglect, you should report it immediately to a Director or the Dean of Students so that appropriate reporting and necessary responsive actions can be taken.Procedure for Abuse Reporting:-952515176500Cases of suspected abuse are rare, but they do happen at Breakthrough (typically one or two cases per summer). It is important to keep the likelihood of these cases in perspective. Most teachers will not come across this kind of situation during your time at Breakthrough. However, if a situation does come up, you will be well-prepared to handle it from a professional standpoint. We will address suspected abuse and the procedure for reporting in greater detail during Teacher Training. When in doubt—always raise a concern with the Dean of Students or a Director.BULLYING AND HAZINGAt Breakthrough, it is easy to think that bullying and hazing don’t happen, because we are such a warm, close-knit community. ?It is important, however, for all teachers to be aware of the expectations and help make students aware as well.Breakthrough Fort Worth will not tolerate any bullying, whether verbal or physical in nature, because it damages our community, hurts our sense of teamwork, destroys group and self-respect, and harms the image of Breakthrough as a safe place in the community.Bullying among children is commonly defined as intentional, repeated hurtful acts, words, or other behavior, such as name-calling, threatening, or shunning. ?These acts are not provoked by the victims, and an imbalance of real or perceived power must exist in order to be defined as bullying. ?Examples include:· ????????Physical bullying: punching, poking, strangling, hair pulling, beating, biting, and excessive tickling· ????????Verbal bullying: name-calling, teasing, gossip· ????????Emotional bullying: rejecting, terrorizing, extorting, defaming, humiliating, blackmailing, rating/ranking of personal characteristics such as race, disability, ethnicity, or perceived sexual orientation, manipulating friendships, isolating, ostracizing and peer pressure· ????????Sexual bullying: many of the above actions as well as exhibitionism, voyeurism, sexual propositioning, sexual harassment, and abuse involving actual physical contact and sexual assault.Any teacher who has witnessed or has reliable information that a student or fellow teacher has been subjected to bullying, including insults, taunts, or challenges, should promptly report this behavior to the Breakthrough Directors. 450532515367000RED FLAGSIn addition to suspected abuse, Breakthrough students may also reveal other kinds of sensitive information to you. ?The most important thing you can do in these cases is to listen. ?You are not a trained counselor and you are not expected to provide advice or treatment. ?Sometimes the best you can do is listen and let them know that you care. A student may tell you something that raises a “red flag” when you hear it. ?They may disclose something explicitly to you, or the red flag may appear in the form of casual comments or even a question about you. ?“Red flag” topics include:Guns and violenceDrugs, drinking, smokingRunning awayEating disordersDropping outSexSelf-injuryIllegal or unsafe behaviorSuicideBullyingFamily concerns (e.g., recent separation or divorce, death)If you believe that a student is struggling with one of these issues, tell the Program Director or Dean of Students. ?Particularly in the case of suicidal thoughts, it is critical to tell someone immediately. ?Even if the situation is not urgent, it is helpful to know about these issues so that we can support students year-round.Procedure for Reporting Red Flags:-4762518986500Chapter Three ReviewKey Terms and Acronyms:Red FlagsBig Ideas:Breakthrough teachers are held to high conduct standards inside and outside of the program.Breakthrough is not the place for romance.Teaching Fellows must respect the boundaries of confidentiality, as well as the limits of those boundaries.Illegal or inappropriate use of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are prohibited.Teaching Fellows may be put in a position of needing to report abuse; such cases should always be communicated with an administrator, along with other potential red flags.Thinking Critically:How are the expectations for students and Teaching Fellows alike, and how are they different?Breakthrough teachers are encouraged to socialize and get to know one another outside of working hours. What are some fun, all-ages, inclusive activities that you could organize for the faculty this summer?What can happen to the sense of community and safety if confidentiality is violated?How do you feel about being in a position in which you may need to report a very serious issue? How will you seek support when faced with such a situation?Questions over Chapter Three—Record Your Own Questions Here!*Based on past experience, our belief is that you will have a lot of questions over this chapter in particular. Please take the time to write them down. We will spend time during Teacher Training addressing these issues in greater detail.Chapter Four:Policies & ProceduresYOUR ROLE AS A TEACHERYour responsibilities as a Breakthrough teacher are multifaceted, challenging, and rewarding. ?You are a teacher at Breakthrough and you are a part of the 25-member Breakthrough faculty. ?All faculty members are expected to support one another, the students, and the community as a whole. ?Specific roles and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:Teaching two academic courses;Leading or assisting an extracurricular course (called a “Club”);?Chairing or serving on a committee;Collaborating with your fellow teachers in an academic department;Leading or being a member of a four-teacher Team,Being an active, engaged faculty member and colleague and attending all faculty meetings and program events;Committing to undertaking the program’s demanding schedule and the myriad responsibilities of teaching.CAMPUS MAINTENANCE530796579502000We are privileged to hold our program on the campus of Fort Worth Country Day and to use all its natural and academic resources. Never leave a mess, and always leave a place cleaner than you found it. Pick up after yourself. If you use materials, put them away when you finish. Be invested in how our school looks. If you walk past a mess, clean it up. Keeping the school clean will make it a more enjoyable place to work. It also helps model this kind of behavior to our students. Please refrain from eating and drinking in Country Day classrooms and open spaces. You may have a water bottle. Eating on campus should take place in the Faculty Room, in the cafeteria, or outdoors.Please be especially aware of materials and resources that belong to teachers at Fort Worth Country Day. Do not move or take things that do not belong to you. Breakthrough has our own resources. The faculty supply room is one of the most important and visible rooms on campus and it must be kept orderly. Furthermore, it is used by all of you. Show teamwork, and keep it clean for one another.-2190756604000DRESSWe expect that every faculty member dress in an appropriate and neat manner. ?You are not required to dress formally, but you are expected to represent yourself and the program well. ?At all times: Avoid inappropriate messages and clothing that is revealing. ?Shorts, skirts, dresses, pants, jeans, and t-shirts are all fine, if well-fitting and neat. ?Teachers must wear shoes or sandals. Check out these appropriately dressed Breakthrough teachers!In addition, while students are on campus (between 7:30am-4:00pm Monday-Thursday, 7:30am-1:30pm Friday), you are expected to follow the same dress code as the students.Breakthrough Student Dress CodeThe following dress code applies to regular school hours as well as any time that students are on the Breakthrough campus after hours, or representing Breakthrough in the community (such as field trips).Shorts, skirts, and dresses must be at least fingertip length.Leggings and tights are not pants and, if worn, must be covered by a shirt, shorts, skirt, or dress of at least fingertip length.Underwear (including bra straps, boxer shorts, etc.) must not show at any time.Students must wear footwear. Sandals, sneakers, boots, etc., are all acceptable. (If you are participating in an athletic club, you must bring appropriate shoes, i.e. tennis shoes.)Shirts should not reveal midriff or cleavage. No spaghetti-strap tops, halter tops, tube tops, or crop tops. No see-through, mesh, or cutout tops. Clothing and accessories must not have inappropriate messages or images such as profanity, vulgar language, weapons, or alcohol-related logos.Hats are not permitted indoors.The dress code does apply during special events, including Fancy Meal and Spirit Week. If a teacher determines that a student is out of dress code, that student should be sent immediately to the office to borrow appropriate clothing. ?A phone call home may be made to clarify the dress code.* Please note: Students and teaching fellows are permitted to wear sandals (not flip-flops) at Breakthrough. ?However, if you wish to participate in athletic activities, you will need to wear or bring appropriate footwear. ?Please ask if you don’t know for sure if your shoes are appropriate. ?Continued failure to wear appropriate shoes for athletics will lead to your inability to continue participating in athletics at Breakthrough.A few more tips for teachers:Breakthrough has no policy relating to body piercings, hair color, facial hair, or tattoos. ?Remember that summers in North Texas can get very hot, with many 100-degree days in July and August. ?Dress sensibly and keep hydrated! Check out Fort Worth’s average monthly temps at the same time, the air conditioning at Fort Worth Country Day is often turned up to maximum strength. ?You may wish to dress for the heat, but bring a jacket or sweater for indoors.For out-of-towners: You will need to pack a swimsuit and a business dress outfit for special occasions.LANGUAGEProfanity is not acceptable in any context at Breakthrough.PROMPTNESS AND ATTENDANCEYou are expected to be on time for and in attendance at all events. ?This includes being present in the Cafeteria at the Faculty Huddle at 7:30am* every morning, present at breakfast and lunch, on time to class, community meetings, and faculty meetings. ?During the day, you should spend as much time talking to students as possible. ?With a teacher to student ratio of four to one, students should be well supervised at all times. ?They will be vying for your attention, time, and the opportunity to sit with you. ??Remember: Kids in Focus! ?Also, remember that your timing affects other teachers. ?If you let your students out late from class, they each arrive late to other classes. ?If you let them out early, they have the occasion to be disruptive in the hallways. ?Keeping to a schedule addresses issues of accountability, supervision, and safety.*Teacher training schedule varies slightly. ?Some days start at 8:00am or 7:45am instead of 7:30, and typically you should meet in the Upper School Commons (not the Cafeteria) during training. ?Check the schedule!OFF CAMPUS POLICYTeachers are expected to be on campus from the start of the day until the end of the daily faculty and/or committee/department meeting. ?You may not leave campus any time during the day unless you receive face-to-face permission from the Program Director. ?The students expect that you will be available throughout the day and they, as well as your colleagues, depend on your being on campus.ANTICIPATED ABSENCESThe vast majority of cases, we ask that you plan to be present at Breakthrough every single moment of every single day (June 7-August 3). ?However, there are occasional times when it is appropriate to ask in advance for permission to miss a day of Breakthrough. ?Some of these instances might be:· ????????A family obligation such as a wedding or funeral· ????????A school orientation (if you are attending college for the first time) that cannot be scheduled for a time other than Breakthrough’s dates· ????????Doctor’s appointments that cannot be delayed until a time after BreakthroughIt is not appropriate to ask for permission to miss Breakthrough for the following instances:· ????????Summer classes (we strongly discourage you from attempting to take any summer classes as you will not have time to manage your obligations to both)· ????????Vacations· ????????Music lessons· ????????Other work or volunteer obligations (again, we discourage you from making significant commitments to anything other than Breakthrough this summer)· ????????Non-emergency doctor’s or dentist’s appointments that can be rescheduled for times after Breakthrough ?Please ensure that you and your family are aware of the commitment you are making to Breakthrough. ?Any anticipated absences should be addressed in writing or email to the Program Director, with as much advance notice as is possible.You are responsible for ensuring that your class and other responsibilities are handled, by arranging for another teacher, a teacher’s assistant, or your instructional coach to cover your class. You are expected to provide your colleague with all the resources and materials (i.e. lesson plans) they would need in order to successfully teach that class. ?Other responsibilities, such as clubs, committees, and team concerns, should be addressed with the teacher(s) involved.All Breakthrough teachers, whether 16 or 22, are considered as adults and have many grown-up responsibilities. ?You should handle any special requests for anticipated absences as an independent adult in an adult job.UNANTICIPATED ABSENCESExcept in cases of serious illness or family emergency, it is not acceptable to have unanticipated absences at Breakthrough. ?Your students and fellow teachers are counting on you. ?In the event of an unavoidable unanticipated absence, the Program Director should be informed as quickly as possible via a phone call or text message. ?If you are capable, you should make an effort to ask a colleague to help cover your classes. ?In cases of illness, when you return, a doctor’s note is required to verify your absence. (* If you are from out of town and do not have a local doctor, a Director will help you get appropriate medical care.)PERSONAL PROPERTY AND THEFTBreakthrough is very lucky to be hosted at Fort Worth Country Day, which is a very safe place protected by 24-hour security. ?It is always prudent to keep an eye on your personal belongings. ?Breakthrough is not responsible for the loss or damage of personal property such as phones, music players, or computers. ?If you do suspect that theft has occurred, please report directly to Craig Slayton, Head of Security at Fort Worth Country Day. ?You should also store these numbers in your phone for easy reference: Security Main Line: 817-732-2751Security Cell Phone: 817-307-3836* (reaches on duty officer immediately, to be used in urgent situations)We will also provide a locker to each Breakthrough staff member to keep your belongings in a safe place. REIMBURSEMENT FOR MATERIALS PURCHASEDOccasionally during the summer, you may have to purchase supplies for your class or Club. ?The following is the procedure you need to follow in order to be reimbursed:1. ?????Research your purchase. ?Create a chart similar to the following:Item ??????????????? ??? Quantity ???????????????????? Cost ??????????????????????????? ??? ??? Reason ???????????????????????????????????????????????????????*Bananas ???????? 20 ?????????????????????????????? 59 cents/pound ????????? Science activity—practice dissection????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? ??? ??? ??? Total Cost: About $3.002. ???? Get approval from the appropriate person for the anticipated purchase, amount, and reason for it. ?They will also give you a tax-exempt card if appropriate and available. ?(Who is the appropriate person? ?For your academic class: Your Instructional Coach. ?For your Club or Team: the Dean of Volunteers. ?For other reasons: Program Director.) 3. ???? Purchase the approved supplies. ?Please note that we cannot reimburse you for tax; if you have a tax-exempt card, you must present it at purchase.4. ???? Keep your receipt. ?Write your name at the top.5. ???? Complete the Check Request form and attach your receipt.6. ???? Hand your Check Request form and receipt to Joe Breedlove.Forms are usually processed by the business office within 2 weeks. ?If someone in the business office takes a vacation in the summer it may delay your check. ?Please be sure that you use the appropriate address considering the possible timing of receipt of your check.-123825381000* Please note that this is just an example and it is not typical to request reimbursement for three dollars’ worth of bananas.COPIESThis summer, Breakthrough will be able to use the services of the FWCD Print Shop, run by Nolan Hightower. ?Nolan will be able to make all copies relating to your classes or other responsibilities at Breakthrough.(see next page for copy request procedure)It is reasonable to expect that you will be well prepared for your class in advance. ?Therefore, you are expected to give your students all appropriate handouts, materials, and homework assignments during class. ?It is not appropriate to tell your students “I will give you the homework later in the day.” ?We ask for students to be prepared for class and so you need to be prepared as well.Requesting copies at the FWCD Print Shop is free to you. ?In the event of “emergencies” or situations when you have not planned in advance, there is a 24-hour FedEx/Kinko’s on Bryant Irvin, just south of FWCD (in the shopping center next to the Lowe’s and GardenRidge). ?Breakthrough will not reimburse you for copies made at Kinko’s and you should not leave campus during the school day to do this.The only time when you should ask a TA to make copies is if you need to copy pages from a book. ?The TA can make a single copy of the pages you need, for which you will then need to create a Copy Request form. ??We ask that you respect TAs’ time and responsibilities. ?They have a number of tasks and making copies is only a small piece of their job. ?Additionally, the copy machine which the TAs use is not designed for heavy use. ?Breakthrough has a limited number of copy allowances on that machine. ?Please respect the needs of the entire community and follow the expected copy PUTERSWe strongly recommend that you bring a laptop, if you have one, with you to Breakthrough. ?FWCD is a wireless campus and using your own laptop will help free up computer lab space for teachers who do not have laptops. Starting during orientation and going through the end of wrap-up week, Breakthrough teachers will have access to computer labs and printers in the Upper School Commons. These computers will have internet access and basic programs like Word, Excel, and Photoshop. During the summer, you may have reason to use the computer lab in your class or club. ?The Yearbook Club will have a standing reservation for the computer lab in the library during clubs period. Breakthrough will have access to additional computer labs in the library; please plan to make arrangements with the Program Director if you would like to reserve these labs. ?It is important that everyone treats these computers with respect and that expectations are clear for students.If it is appropriate for your class, Flex Time, or Study Buddy time, students are allowed to use the computers in the Commons area; they must be monitored and given specific expectations. ? Teachers and students will share a common login. ?We ask that you respect privacy and use discretion by saving items to your flash drive, Dropbox account, GoogleDocs, or other cloud storage instead of the network folders.CLASSROOM TECHNOLOGYEvery classroom has a desktop computer that is connected to the auxiliary technology equipment (projector, document camera, smart board, etc.). ?You may use this equipment upon completion of the BT Technology Training Session held during our training weeks. ?You will be responsible for any damages incurred to any of the technology equipment in the classrooms. ?STUDENTS ARE NEVER PERMITTED TO USE ANY OF THE CLASSROOM AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT. Further details will be provided at the Technology Training Session.38766752381250003362325238125000202882523812500015240002381250001009650239077500542925239077500-9525238633000-12700011112500TRANSPORTATIONFaculty and staff members are responsible for getting to the Fort Worth Country Day campus on their own. ?You should park in Parking Lot A (outside the Upper School). ?Teachers staying at the TCU dorms should work together to make sure everyone gets to the campus on time. ?Carpooling is socially and environmentally responsible; please remember that each person will be held accountable for arriving on time, no matter the driver of a vehicle. ?Ongoing road construction on Bryant Irvin and Highway 183 may cause delays. The School will work to notify Breakthrough in the event of any major construction disruptions. Regardless, each person is still responsible for being on time. Construction or traffic is never an excuse for tardiness.3619501333500-95250317500ONLINE PRESENCEIn an age when real communities and relationships extend onto the Internet, it is important for you to be aware of your web presence. ?Many people use Facebook and Twitter. ?Some also use other social-networking sites and/or maintain personal pages. ?Your students will have a natural curiosity about you that may lead them to search for you on the Internet. ?Be aware that photos, profiles, or writing that you place on the Internet can be accessed by anyone. ?Posting illicit or inappropriate content could undermine your ability to be an effective mentor or teacher. ?Your “friend” status protections and privacy controls are never fool-proof. ?Even if your content is protected, it is wise to never post anything that you would not feel comfortable talking about with someone in the Breakthrough community.Breakthrough advises caution with the use of social networking sites, chat, or other Internet-based communication with students. ?While sites like Facebook provide a great way to keep up with your students after the summer is over, communication misinterpretations can lead to awkward or inappropriate situations that put you at risk as an educator. ?Be aware that inappropriate web presence or activity by teachers could result in disciplinary action including but not limited to dismissal from the program.ART AND THE ART BUILDINGDuring the two weeks of teacher training (June 6-17), teachers will have time to paint team signs and decorate the commons. ?In general, the expectation is each team will paint a large team sign to hang in the commons. ?This sign is a Breakthrough tradition that celebrates our college-going culture and welcomes individual students to their summer “family. While it is important that the signs look neat and aesthetically pleasing, sign painting should never take priority over lesson planning obligations. (See next page for examples of team signs from past summers.)After June 17, the Art Building will available for the use of art-related Clubs during the designated Clubs period. ?We will not have access during other hours or after school. ?Teachers may make signs with construction paper, butcher paper, and markers. ?CLASSROOM BOXESEvery classroom at Breakthrough is outfitted with a supply box. ?These boxes contain both permanent and re-fillable supplies. ?Every box should have the following items:Permanent supplies:3-hole punchRulerTape dispenserScissors StaplerDictionaryRe-fillable supplies:Box of pencilsBox of black/blue pensBox of red pensElmer’s glue Glue sticksKleenex boxPaper clip holder and clipsRubber bandsSpare Scotch tape rollsBox of staplesWhite out Roll of masking tapeReinforcement stickersPost-it padsDry erase markersBand-AidsPaperDuring the course of the summer, it is your responsibility to keep track of the items in your supply box, along with the teacher(s) who share classroom space with you. ?If you are running low on re-fillable supplies, such as paper and pens, you can re-stock using supplies from the Supply Room (113 in the Upper School). ?Your permanent supplies should stay in your classroom at all times so that they do not get misplaced.At the end of the summer, you will turn in your classroom box back to Breakthrough. ?Any permanent supplies that are missing from your box and not accounted for will be docked from your final paycheck. ?Please help us keep track of everything and there will be no problems.Supply RoomThe Supply room is located in US 113. ?In this room you can find a variety of materials related to your classroom needs such as paper, pens (red, blue, and black), scissors, hole punches, colored pencils, markers, crayons, highlighters, construction paper, pencil sharpeners, and so on. When possible, it is important that these materials be returned back to the supply room at the end of the summer. ?To help us keep track of these items, there will be a sign-up sheet where you can account for materials you check in and out of the Supply Room. ?Again, any permanent supplies that go missing from the supply room and are not accounted for will be docked from your final paycheck. ?Please help us keep track of everything and there will be no problems. ?It is also important that this room stay as organized as possible. ?At the end of every day, a team’s clean-up assignment will be to ensure that this room is kept neat and tidy by making sure that it is in the appropriate section on a shelf or container. Procedures for checking permanent materials in/outPermanent items include the following:StaplersHole PunchesCalculatorsClip BoardsDictionariesProtractorsScissorsSingle Hole Punches35337759334520% of the Summer 2016 faculty have previously worked as a TA!020% of the Summer 2016 faculty have previously worked as a TA!WORKING WITH TEACHING ASSISTANTSTeaching assistants, or TA’s, are full-time summer volunteers between 14 and 16 years old. ?Most TA’s are Breakthrough students returning to give back to the program, while some are Fort Worth area volunteers eager to get involved, but not yet ready to become a teacher. The mission of the TA program is to prepare young volunteers with skills and experience to become a teacher in the future. Each team will have 1-3 TA’s assigned to them. Like teachers, TA’s go through a series of training sessions where they learn strategies for instruction and classroom management. ?In addition, they will also be given the chance to practice these skills in specific situations with their teams. ?TA’s will also visit morning classes in order to observe the instructional strategies they are learning about. ?Teaching assistants are here to help the program in any way possible, from creating signs for All School Meeting to helping the Office Manager prepare a mailing—they do it all! ?When you feel that you may benefit from a teaching assistant’s help there is a specific procedure set in place so that you are satisfied with the outcome (in regards to timeliness and following directions).Procedure for TA Help:All requests must be made in writing. ?Write your TA request on the white board in the TA Room (US Room 104).Make sure that you allow the TA(s) a reasonable amount of time to complete the task—at least 24 hours is best, longer with more complex jobs. ?Write very specific instructions for the task that you would like the TA to complete. ?If there are more than 3 steps, you should write them on paper so that the TA can take the instructions with them as they do the job.Write your name by the assignment so that they know who direct their questions to. Do not stop a TA in the hall and ask for their help—they might be in the middle of another project, or on their way to fulfill another responsibility, and might be too polite to tell you no. Following the expected procedure shows respect for the TA’s time and the program’s overall needs.Summer 2012 teacher Samantha (center) with TA’s Sarai and CarismaRole Modeling Success for TA’s:As mentioned before, we want to make sure that each teaching assistant has a memorable and valuable experience. ?Their biggest role models for the summer will be you—the teachers! Therefore, it is just as important for you to set a positive example with them as it is with your students, embodying the Core Values in all that you do in relationship with TA’s. Get to know them personally like you would any other colleague. If you have a conflict with an individual, address it directly with him or her in a respectful and private manner as a disagreement between equals. Although serious conflicts are rare, please let the Dean of Faculty know if you have a major concern about a TA’s professionalism.As with any other member of the team, it’s important to encourage TA’s and provide opportunities to recognize their hard work. Include them in your team activities, write thank-yous for good work, and seek out ways to honor them!Who is in charge of Teaching Assistants? The Dean of Volunteers (Janette Quezada) is the direct supervisor for all TA’s in summer 2016.There are also 3 Lead TAs who will serve in managing all team TAs and ensuring all tasks and assignments are completed. These 3 TAs will also report directly to the Dean of Volunteers.Other:There will be between 14 and 16 total TAs working this summer.All TAs will work the entire summer.All teams will be assigned 1-3 TA’s.TAs may have leadership roles in addition to their general responsibilities, as Photographer, Office Assistants, Reporter, or Club Leaders.You will find out your team’s assigned TA during Teacher Training or before.Chapter Four ReviewKey Terms and Acronyms:TA’s (Teacher’s Assistants)Classroom BoxesBig Ideas:Teaching Fellows are expected to be present, on time, and on campus every day.When requesting copies or reimbursement, follow the stated procedures.Teachers are role models and should exemplify professionalism in dress, behavior, and use of technology.Teacher's assistants are a central element of the program; show respect and common courtesy.Thinking Critically:How does following the Breakthrough procedures and policies reflect the Breakthrough Core Values of…Excellence?Respect?Accountability?Breakthrough has a lot of specific expectations and procedures. What will you do when you can’t fully remember a policy for a particular activity?How do you need to adjust your thinking on using online social media? In what ways is being a Breakthrough teacher different from being a “regular person” with respect to things like Facebook, Twitter, etc.?Questions over Chapter Four—Record Your Own Questions Here!Chapter Five:Teacher TrainingTEACHER TRAINING OBJECTIVESTeacher Training is the critical two-week period in which we build community, learn the instructional and classroom management expectations, prepare for the arrival of our students, and understand the policies and procedures in place to support the program mission.After you have completed Teacher Training, you will be able to...Understand and explain the communities of Fort Worth, FWCD, and BreakthroughWork as a teammate and member of the Breakthrough facultyFully understand, believe in, and explain Breakthrough’s mission of academic success for all studentsPlan lessons successfully using Breakthrough instructional strategies including objectives, task analysis, say/see/do teaching, structured/guided/independent practice, and Visual Instructional Plans (VIPs)Collaborate with other teachers in your department Implement Breakthrough curriculum and lesson plans in your classroomSuccessfully implement classroom management strategies including rules, routines, and standards; working the crowd; and calm is strengthUnderstand our student populations in order to better serve student needs in the classroomUnderstand and be able to follow various policies and procedures in place in order to serve the programKnow where to find your resources to seek additional supportTEACHER TRAINING GENERAL EXPECTATIONSHours: Returners only: June 6 from 8:00am to 4:30pmJune 7 to 10 from 8:00am to 5:00pmJune 13 to 16 from 7:45am to 5:00pmJune 17 from 7:30am to 5:00pmPlace:All sessions will take place at Fort Worth Country Day in the Upper School. ?Typically the morning routine will take place in the Upper School Commons, so meet there every day unless otherwise instructed.Preparation:Prior to arriving at Teacher Training, teaching fellows should make sure to complete all pre-summer assignments. This includes:Completing all surveys by their stated deadlinesTurning in HR paperwork Reading all handbooks and other selectionsReviewing the curriculum for your subject and grade levelIf you are in a position of leadership, completing all preparation for your leadership roleHandbook Quiz:You will be held accountable for reading the contents of this handbook and the Instructional Strategies handbook. All teachers will be expected to score at least 85% on the Handbook Quiz on the first day. Handbook Quiz Tips for Success:Read both handbooks thoroughly at least twice.Returners: Look for changes.Study the Chapter Reviews.Quiz yourself over key terms, acronyms, and big ideas.Answer the “Thinking Critically” questions.Record your own questions in the space provided.General Expectations:Please be at all workshops on time and ready to participate. ?Please be aware of and adhere to due dates for lesson plans, surveys, etc. ?We ask that you plan ahead so that we have time to identify problems and support you in solving them.Please use your phones, chat, and take care of personal business during breaks and meals.Laptops will be useful during breakout sessions and work time; however, you generally should not take notes on a laptop during structured training sessions or meetings.Meals: Except for June 7, teachers will be responsible for bringing their own meals. ?Lunch is 30 minutes long and there will likely be no time to travel off campus. ?Ordering deliveries is okay, so long as they do not interfere with training sessions.Homework:We believe that the most important thing you can do in the evening is rest (not only during training, but all summer long!). Therefore, we have built in time each day to work on your responsibilities. With proper time management, you should be able to go home with a manageable amount of work to do in the evening. That said, it is absolutely essential that you get your assignments completed, including daily surveys. Summer 2016 Teacher Training SchedulePlease note that this schedule is a work in progress, and the specifics may change.Each day of teacher training has a Breakthrough Core Value or Guiding Principle as its “theme.” The theme for the entire two-week period? Kids in Focus!Tuesday, June 7 *First Official Day of Teacher TrainingCore Value/Guiding Principle: TeamworkTimeSessionNotes8:00-8:30Introductions and WelcomeWelcome to Breakthrough! Meet the other teaching fellows and administrative staff, and get excited for the weeks ahead! 8:30-9:15Breakthrough Core Values and CreedThe foundations of Breakthrough are built on a common commitment to our core values and the Breakthrough Creed. We will discuss the importance of each value and how they manifest in everyday life at Breakthrough, and we will practice the Creed together.9:15-9:45FWCD Campus TourThe tour will orient new members to the FWCD campus, as well as refresh the memories of those who have not been on campus since last year.9:45-10:00Break10:00-11:00ProfessionalismThis workshop focuses on teacher relationships, expectations, and policies and procedures. The workshop extends upon information in the “Serious Business” and “Policies and Procedures” chapters of the handbook.11:00-11:30Handbook QuizTeachers should arrive to Breakthrough having read and carefully studied the Teacher Handbook. This quiz will hold teachers accountable for the reading. Teachers are expected to receive at least 85% on the quiz, which will include multiple-choice and short answer questions.11:30-12:30Lunch / Team MeetingsBreakthrough will provide lunch. Teachers will eat within teams (small units that serve as “families” for students and teachers).12:30-1:30Experience a Breakthrough ClassTeaching Learning Collaborative (TLC) #1Returning teachers will demonstrate a model lesson to members of their department. The purpose of this session is to give teachers a sense of Breakthrough instructional and classroom management strategies.1:30-3:30Faculty Cultural Humility, Part 1Start with objectives. This is part one of a two-part session that will be concluded on Day 4 of training. (Rational for cultural humility and self-identity) 3:30-3:45Break3:45-4:30All School MeetingAll School Meeting is a daily celebration of community and reinforcement of academic skills. We will watch video of a past summer’s All School Meeting, discuss expectations, and brainstorm new ideas.4:30-5:00PM Meeting Every day at Breakthrough concludes with a Staff Meeting. We will go over expectations for Staff Meeting and share brief announcements.5:00-7:00Opening Dinner at Cousin’s BarbecueCourtesy of BT! HomeworkDay 1 Survey (15 minutes)Pack tomorrow’s lunch or plan to bring money for lunch (15 minutes)Review the Handbook Chapter 2, “Breakthrough Students”(15 minutes)Wednesday, June 8Core Value/Guiding Principle: RespectTimeSessionNotes8:00-8:30Morning RoutineEach day for the remainder of Teacher Training will begin with a routine: an Energizer, Announcements and Middle School Fact of the Day.8:30-9:00FWCD Security, Tech Talk, and NurseCraig Slayton, Head of Security at Fort Worth Country Day, will speak about campus policies and safety. Technology and Lori McCormack, nurse at FWCD, will speak about technology and safety procedures.9:00-11:00Drug ScreeningFWCD requires that each teacher participate in a urine test to screen for drug use. This is a confidential test that must be passed in order to work at FWCD.11:00-2:45LunchMiddle School AdventuresWhere do our students come from? Within teams, teachers will drive across the city to find the middle schools our students attend. Plan to bring money for lunch, or pack a sack lunch to eat on the road.***Would like to add a debrief session that highlights briefly the realty of education for students in Fort Worth. 2:45-3:45Middle School Adventures DiscussionA debrief session that highlights the reality of education for students in Fort Worth. 3:45-4:30Student PanelWe will hear personal testimonials from rising 8th- and 9th-graders in the program.4:30-5:00PM MeetingCopy request procedureCheck request procedure5:00-7:00Team Leader DinnerTeam Leaders will meet with Breakthrough Admins during dinner (courtesy of BT) to plan for the upcoming days of Teacher Training.HomeworkDay 2 Survey (15 minutes)Review the Instructional Strategies handbook (30 minutes)Thursday, June 9 * First Day with Instructional Coaches!Core Value/Guiding Principle: Passion for LearningTimeSessionNotes8:00-8:30Morning RoutineEnergizer, Announcements, Middle Schooler Fact, Core Value8:30-9:30Breakthrough Instructional Training- (BIT) ExplainTeachers will be able to explain the strengths and purpose of breakthrough instructional training by explaining to a partner why BT created and uses these trainings with all of its teaching fellows to impact student achievement. 9:30-10:15Objectives and Big Ideas Teachers will examine and research on the non-cognitive factors that determine student success and it’s connection to the lesson plan planning model by writing 3 objectives and purpose statements by using a common format and explain the big ideas of effective lesson planning. 10:15-10:30Break10:30-11:30Task AnalysisTask analysis is the foundation for teaching every strategy. Teachers will be able to demonstrate task analysis by using task analysis by breaking down the objective for your lesson planning time. 11:30-12:30Returner WorkshopsAll teachers will have the opportunity to attend at least 3 workshops of their choice. Presented by returning teachers. 12:30-1:00Lunch in departmentsBreakthrough will provide lunch. Teachers and ICs will eat in departments and get to know each other.1:00-1:30Introduction to curriculum and assessments.In this session teachers will be able to understand Common Core, Breakthrough Curriculum, and Breakthrough’s assessment guide by looking at the history of the BT curriculum and RenSTAR. 1:30-2:30Department Meeting #1In the first department meeting, you will look at the curriculum user’s guides and student pre-assessments.Teachers will begin to grade pre-assessments. 2:30-4:30ArtEach team will work on creating their large team banner to display in the Upper School Commons. 4:30-5:00PM MeetingCopy request testSpecial eventsHomeworkDay 3 Survey (15 minutes)Pack tomorrow’s lunch (15 minutes)Committee Chairs: Final preparation for meetings (15-30 minutes)Friday, June 10Core Value/Guiding Principle: LeadershipTimeSessionNotes8:00-8:30Morning RoutineEnergizer, Announcements, Middle Schooler Fact8:30-9:15Visual Instructional Plans (VIPs)BIT Session: Teachers will be able to effectively create and implement VIPs by producing at least two visual instructional plans and sharing them with a neighbor.9:15-9:30Break9:30-11:00Active ParticipationBIT Session: Teachers will learn how to apply the strategy of Active Participation by creating 4 effective active participation prompts for lesson plan. 11:00-12:00Department Meeting #2The second department meeting will focus on understanding how to assess and analyze pre-assessment results. Learn how to assess and receive student data. What is the end goal for students in your class? Where are they in terms of getting there? Continue to grade pre-assessments and track data. 12:00-12:30Lunch Bring your own lunch.12:30-1:15Clubs Overview and Work TimeClubs are the extracurricular component of Breakthrough. Each teacher will lead or assist with a club. We will address general expectations and the club calendar for the summer.Teachers will work within small groups to create club proposals and draft calendars for the summer.1:15-2:15Committee OverviewEach teacher serves on one of six committees: ASM, Photography, Student Services, YAS, High School, or College Bound. We will give an overview of their Committee’s responsibilities, and answer general questions.2:15-2:45Committee MeetingsCommittee Chairs will lead meetings with their individual committees. The goals are to share the summer calendar for each committee and distribute responsibilities. Each person will take on a significant role within the committee.2:45-3:00Break3:00-4:30Cultural Humility Training, Part 2This is the second part of the two-part session begun on Day 1 of training. This is teacher identity work. 4:30-5:00PM Meeting6:00-9:00Mandatory Fun: Dinner and Social Enjoy a trip with BT!HomeworkDay 4 Survey (15 minutes)Pack Monday’s lunch (15 minutes)Team Leaders: Prepare Team Handout (30 minutes)Monday, June 13Core Value/Guiding Principle: ExcellenceTimeSessionNotes7:45-8:15Morning RoutineEnergizer, Announcements, Middle Schooler Fact8:15-9:30Building the Skill: Say, See, DoBIT Session: Teachers will be able to synthesize their understanding on Task Analysis and active participation into one effective teaching tool by creating their own Say/see/do teaching cycle. 9:30-9:45Break9:45-10:45Practicing the SkillBIT Session: Teachers will be able to use the different parts of practicing the skill to strengthen student understanding, retention, and transfer, by creating and objective driven assignment for each type of practice. 10:45-11:30The Lesson Planning TemplateBIT Session: This session combines all previous instructional BIT sessions, by creating their 2nd lesson plan in their curriculum guide and gaining further understanding of the lesson plan template. 11:30-12:00Teacher Learning Collaboratives (TLC’s) OverviewBIT Session: TLC’s are a way for teachers to work collaboratively in planning, practicing, and teaching a lesson. We will introduce the structure of TLCs, and then within departments, teachers will begin preparing for tomorrow’s lesson presentations.12:00-12:30LunchIC MeetingBring your own lunch.ICs will meet as a group with the Program Director.12:30-2:30Classroom Culture and Clear RoutinesBIT Session: The best classroom management is proactive, not reactive. The more you can act intentionally to prevent problems, the fewer management challenges you will have, and your students will spend more time on task.Teachers will examine and practice several routines which are proactive management strategies that should be implemented the first (and every) day of Breakthrough.2:30-2:45Break2:45-3:45Work Time3:45-4:30Art TimeTeams can finish art 4:30-5:00PM MeetingDaily scheduleSupply check-outHomeworkDay 5 Survey (15 minutes)Pack tomorrow’s lunch (15 minutes)Finish preparations for tomorrow’s TLC (30-60 minutes)Pack a “business casual” outfit to change into for tomorrow’s Family Night (15 minutes)NicoleTuesday, June 14Core Value/Guiding Principle: CourageTimeSessionNotes7:45-8:15Morning RoutineEnergizer, Announcements, Middle Schooler Fact8:15-9:15Teacher PresenceBIT Session: Today you will examine and practice four kinds of skills that build teacher presence by practicing teacher voice, teacher words, teacher body language, and teacher movement to build automaticity. 9:15-12:00TLC #2This is the first formal opportunity for teachers to practice teaching parts of the curriculum. They should arrive to this prepared to teach a pre-determined section of a lesson plan. Within departments, they observe one another as “students,” then debrief in a session that includes appreciating each other’s work, and tweaking lessons for future teaching. 12:00-12:30Lunch IC MeetingBring your own lunch.ICs will meet as a group with the Program Director.12:30-1:30100% and redirectionTeachers will examine and practice reactive classroom culture and management strategies by practicing being clam while addressing whole group redirections, resets, and defusing individual inappropriate behavior. 1:30-2:30Team BuildingTeachers will develop comfort and familiarity with performing by practicing beginners-level improvisation games.2:30-4:00Independent work timeTeachers may continue to work on room set up and finalize team banners for display during Family Night. 4:00-4:30Family Night Run-ThroughWe will walk through the schedule of events for the evening and answer any lingering questions.4:30-5:00PM Meeting5:00-5:30DinnerCourtesy of BT (for teachers)!EveningFamily NightYour first meeting with students and families!! Directors will lead informational sessions; teachers will support and welcome families.HomeworkDay 6 Survey (15 minutes)Pack tomorrow’s lunch (15 minutes)Wednesday, June 15Core Value/Guiding Principle: AccountabilityTimeSessionNotes7:45-8:15Morning RoutineEnergizer, Announcements, Middle Schooler Fact8:15-9:45Teacher Excellence Rubric BIT Session: Today, teachers will learn how the Teacher Excellence Rubric (TER) will be implemented by explaining the role of each TER-related document, and completing two mock observations.9:45-10:00Break10:00-11:00Homework Procedures and Policies at BTIn this session, teachers and ICs will norm on acceptable homework, set homework procedures in place, and understand the consequences of missed homework at BT. 11:00-12:00TLC Prep TimeWithin departments, teachers may re-teach sections of their lessons, incorporating feedback. Teachers may also work on lessons for tomorrow’s mock teaching session (TLC #3).12:00-12:30LunchIC MeetingBring your own lunch.ICs will meet as a group with the Program mittee Chairs meet as a group with Dean of Faculty.12:30-1:15Collaboration and Leadership Framework Teachers will learn more about the Collaboration and Leadership Framework and how it will be used as a tool to foster growth and support throughout the summer. 1:15-2:45Breakthrough Expectations for Students, Part 1This session will cover:Student handbook, part 12:45-4:30Work timeTeachers will continue to prepare lessons for tomorrow’s mock teaching session (TLC #3).4:30-5:00PM MeetingHomeworkDay 7 Survey (15 minutes)Pack tomorrow’s lunch (15 minutes)Finish preparations for tomorrow’s TLC (30-60 minutes)Thursday, June 16Core Value/Guiding Principle: ConsistencyTimeSessionNotes7:45-8:15Morning RoutineEnergizer, Announcements, Middle Schooler Fact8:15-12:00TLC #3Teachers will present lessons to other teachers within their grade level, and provide appreciations and feedback. 12:00-12:30Lunch / Committee MeetingsIC MeetingBring your own lunch. This is the final structured opportunity to meet as a committee before Day 1.ICs meet with the Program Director.12:30-2:00Interactions with StudentsThis workshop focuses on student-teacher boundaries, relationships, confidentiality, and procedures for managing student issues.2:00-2:15Break2:15-3:45Breakthrough Expectations for Students, Part 2This session will continue addressing student expectations begun in yesterday’s Part 1 session.3:45-4:30Work timeTeachers will prepare lessons for tomorrow’s mock teaching session (TLC #4).4:30-5:00PM MeetingHomeworkDay 8 Survey (15 minutes)Pack tomorrow’s lunch (15 minutes)Final preparations as needed (60 minutes)Friday, June 17Core Value/Guiding Principle: UrgencyTimeSessionNotes7:45-8:15Morning RoutineEnergizer, Announcements, Middle Schooler Fact8:15-12:00TLC #4This is the final formal opportunity for teachers to practice their lessons for the first week. Each teacher will prepare and teach individually (followed by appreciations and tweaks).12:00-12:30Lunch / Team MeetingsIC MeetingBring your own lunch. This is the final structured opportunity to meet as a team in preparation of Day 1.ICs will meet as a group with the Program Director.12:30-1:30All School MeetingTeachers will practice the first day’s All School Meeting and receive feedback. 1:30-3:00Work timeTeachers should use this time to make preparations within classrooms, get ready for clubs, work on committee, leadership, or Your Zone responsibilities, and take care of other last-minute preparations for Monday.3:00-3:15Break3:15-4:30Day 1 VisualizationWe will walk through the first day, visualizing the steps we will take as we go through each component of the daily schedule.4:30-5:00CommencementCongratulations! We celebrate our successful completion of Teacher Training and honor each teacher. 6:00-9:00Mandatory Fun: Dinner & SocialEnjoy Freebird’s Burritos and an evening of bowling courtesy of Breakthrough)!HomeworkDay 9 Survey (15 minutes)Breakthrough Collaborative Teacher Training Survey (30 minutes)Final preparations as needed for Monday (60 minutes-longer, depending on your needs and plans)Saturday, June 18Saturday is not an official Training day. However, the FWCD campus will be open from 9:00am-6:30pm if you wish to work on-site to finish classroom preparations, etc. Please call the Security number (817) 732-2751 if you plan to come to campus.Chapter Five ReviewKey Terms and Acronyms:BIT (Breakthrough Instructional Training)Morning RoutinePM Staff MeetingTER (Teacher Excellence Rubric)TLC’s (Teacher Learning CollaborativesCLER (Collaboration and Leadership Excellence Rubric)Big Ideas:Teacher Training is the critical two-week period in which we build community, learn the classroom and teaching expectations, prepare for the arrival of our students, and understand the policies and procedures in place to support the program mission.You will be held accountable for reading the contents of this handbook and the Instructional Strategies handbook. All teachers will be expected to score at least 85% on the Handbook Quiz on the first day. Many days have “Work Time” built in. Use your work time wisely to maximize your resources.Each night you will have some homework, including a Daily Survey (online). Complete all assignments regularly!Thinking Critically:What do you need to do to ensure that you are on time for Training each morning?How will you structure your time and keep track of ongoing assignments to ensure you are ready for the start of the program?What tools does Breakthrough have in place to ensure that teachers feel supported as they undergo Teacher Training?Questions over Chapter Five—Record Your Own Questions Here!Chapter Six:2667000534860500-314324652780001095375307784500Instructional Expectations CURRICULUM OVERVIEWThere are four departments at Breakthrough Fort Worth: Literature, Mathematics, Science, and Writing. ?All students will take one course in each of the four subjects. All subjects (with the exception of 9th grade Algebra 2) use a nationally normed curriculum with lesson plans provided by Breakthrough Collaborative.LiteratureThe two main skill objectives of Literature are to prepare students (1) to read texts closely and make inferences, and (2) to participate in classroom discussions by citing textual evidence. 7th-graders will read one text, Sherman Alexie’s novel The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian (or PTI). 8th-graders read Orson Scott Card’s novel Ender’s Game. 9th-graders read Black Boy, a memoir by Richard Wright.MathematicsThe overall objective of Breakthrough mathematics is to prepare students for eventual success in algebra 1 during 8th grade (or earlier), followed by geometry in 9th grade (or earlier). ?Students will take a diagnostic pre-test in late April to determine their placement.Students who have not already completed Algebra 1 in their regular schools will take one of the following, based on their pre-test scores:Algebra 1 Part 1 (focuses on fractions and decimals)Algebra 1 Part 2 (focuses on variables and more complex algebraic thinking)Algebra 1 Part 3 (for students who have mastered the concepts of Part 1 and Part 2, this course uses SAT-style questions to expand the depth of algebraic thinking)Students who have completed Algebra 1 will take Geometry. A small number of 9th-graders have completed Geometry already; they will take Algebra 2.ScienceThe purpose of science class at Breakthrough is to provide students with critical thinking skills and habits of mind that will lead to success in all levels of high school science. ?In this respect it is more important to teach “scientific thinking” rather than the specific content. ?Critical skills include: understanding and being able to implement the steps of the scientific method, note-taking, critical reading, and writing lab reports.Each year of science aligns with a different type of content. ?7th grade: Physics8th grade: Chemistry9th grade: BiologyPhysics and Biology each have fully developed curriculum with lesson plans provided. The 8th grade Chemistry framework is more general, leaving 8th-grade teachers with more room to construct their own lesson plans. Last year’s lesson plans will provide a solid starting point for this summer’s Chemistry department.WritingIn general, the writing curriculum will focus on the components of successful response to text, response to literature, and document-based questions. Students will be able read informational text, synthesize arguments, develop new arguments and incorporate textual evidence in their writing. Breakthrough Collaborative uses components of a national writing program called Step Up to Writing (SUTW) and the 9 part essay color-coding system. Because the concepts and strategies of SUTW and the color-coding system are used across all subjects, all teachers need to be familiar with the basic language of the SUTW Handy Pages (included in your required reading).ROLE OF INSTRUCTIONAL COACHESInstructional Coaches at Breakthrough serve two roles:Their primary role is to support teachers in their instruction and classroom management, helping them to implement Breakthrough teaching strategies within the specific content area.Their secondary role is to evaluate teachers and provide opportunities for growth.You can expect the following from your Instructional Coach:Twice-a-week mini-observations, followed by brief one-on-one conferencesDepartment meetings at least once a weekSupport in the implementation, adaptation, and creation of lesson plansSupport in acquiring class materials Being present in the mornings between 8am-1pm in the event of any questionsIn order to take the best advantage of your relationship with your Instructional Coach, you should:Listen to feedback and actively make changes in order to respond to growth opportunitiesAttend meetings on time and be engagedBe proactive in seeking help from your IC with questions about curriculum or lesson plansSubmit lesson plans and other materials in a timely manner according to deadlinesYour IC may give you a phone number to use, but please be respectful of their time. ?Their working hours are 8am-1pm on Tuesday-Thursday, and 8am-5:30pm on Monday (ICs do not work Fridays). It is never appropriate to call or text your IC at night and ask for an extension on a deadline. If you plan ahead and use your time well, you can address concerns to them within regular work hours. ?LESSON PLAN FORMATBreakthrough uses a structured lesson plan format provided by Breakthrough Collaborative, which has been piloted and refined by Breakthrough sites across the country for four years. ?The companion “Instructional Strategies” handbook elaborates and explains the purpose of this lesson plan format. We will go into much greater detail about the lesson plan format during teacher training week, but you can see a sample of this template on the next pages.All teachers are expected to use this lesson plan template for their core classes. ?It is to your best advantage to spend your time learning the provided lesson plans very well; some modifications may be made if deemed necessary and appropriate by the teacher with the IC’s approval.You are not required to use this lesson plan format during your Clubs; however, it can be very useful to use it as much as is possible, depending on the daily objectives of the Club.Team Leaders should use this template to plan daily Flex Time sessions, when applicable. ?* Sometimes Flex Time will be taken up by whole-group or whole-community activities, in which case a lesson plan is not required; however, when the team is responsible for themselves alone, the team leader should create a plan.On the following pages you will find an example of a high-quality Breakthrough lesson plan. ?This lesson plan is written for a day during the first week of a 7th Grade Writing class. ?You will notice that portions of this plan are shaded in green. In this, and in all other Breakthrough-provided lesson plans, green means that teaching fellows are highly encouraged to change or adapt this part to suit their own and their students’ personal preferences and needs.In 2016, Breakthrough Collaborative introduced a new curriculum with a similar format in the lesson plans. Writing, some literature teachers, and some math teachers may see a difference between their lesson plans and the lesson plans of other subjects. Getting Yourself ReadyMaterials:Index cardsIf possible, bring in a high school or college textbook, a magazine (such as Newsweek or Time that you read), and a persuasive essay/literary essay that you have recently written—you can use these to make the “See” much more dynamic when you explain the course goals.Poster of sentence frames for your class goals (see Setting Goals step for topics that will be covered) Class average on writing pre-testIndividual goal sheets (sample included)Your Preparation:Class set copies:Individual Goal Sheets (feel free to modify the sample one)Agenda (w/times):GYSR: 5 minBuilding the Skill: 15 minGP: 7 minHW and Closure: 8 minNote: this lesson should take about 35 minutes, which will give you extra time at the end to play a getting-to-know-you game. It is important that you structure your game so that it doesn’t undermine the routines and expectations you have created during the lesson. For example, you might have students interview and introduce each other, using their pair-share routine, your attention signals, and complete sentences. What you don’t want to do is play a game before you teach them your expectations or teach them your expectations and then play a game in which you do not expect them to meet your expectations. Getting Your Students Ready*Do Now: Note: Be sure to meet students at the door, introduce yourself and welcome them, hand them their index cards, point to the place where the Do Now is posted and their assigned seat, and state the expectation that they quickly and quietly sit and begin working. If students do not follow the routine, re-start the routine until it is executed perfectly. Throughout this first day lesson, your management focus should be on continuing the lesson only with the behaviors that you want to see for the rest of the summer.*Do Now: On an index card, write your name, and answer, “What is one writing skill you would like to develop this summer? Why are writing skills important?” Explain that in our class, we will be using complete sentences when we speak and write. Speaking in complete sentences will give us the opportunity to strengthen our skills to improve our writing. With that in mind, ask students to share either one writing skill each would like to develop or share one reason why he/she believes writing skills are important. Explain that in our class, we look at whoever is speaking and give him/her our full attention and that when we share our thinking, we speak loudly and clearly. Model what that looks like, then ask each student to share. Be sure that you don’t let any students “opt out.”Thank the students for following the daily Do Now routine. Have students set index cards aside, so the back can be used for the exit slip during the Guided Practice. Say that this summer we will be developing key writing skills and while examining the same big idea, “identity,” that we will be looking at in our literature class.Objective: Today you will…Learn how our class is going to work together to open doors for your future—in middle school, high school, college, graduate school, and life. We will set our individual and class goals for the summer and discuss why we are committed to becoming excellent writers.Proving behavior: by…Answering the following questions: “How will this class help you become an excellent writer? How will you measure your individual progress, and how will we track our class progress?”Note: Objective & Proving Behavior should be posted in the same place every day, so you and the students can reference it throughout the lesson. You should also post the agenda and homework in the same consistent place, as well, so students who finish the Do Now early can copy the homework assignment into their planners. While students are working on the Do Now, their homework should be in the upper-right or upper-left hand corner of their desks, so you can quickly scan it to identify misconceptions you need to address and see if there are missing assignments you need to follow up on. If necessary, you can collect it if you need to grade it later, but timely, specific feedback is always better for learning and more time-efficient than delayed feedback.Purpose: We are doing this because…this class is going to require diligent effort, focus, and hard work, but you need to know why you should do those things, which is why we’re tackling the big questions (ideally, these should be posted): “How will this class help you become an excellent writer? How will you measure your individual progress, and how will we track our class progress?”Building the Skill (may be less or more than 4 steps)Rou-tinesSay: We are going to look at a couple of the procedures we will use this summer—attention signals and pair shares.Attention Signals (feel free to use your own gradual and instant signals)You will be discussing ideas with partners and table groups during the summer, as well as working in small groups and using different parts of the classroom. I need ways to signal to you that I need your attention, so that I am not talking over you, and you’re not struggling to hear me. I have two attention signals—a gradual signal and an instant signal. I will use the gradual signal when I need you to finish what you are doing and be prepared to move on. I will use an instant signal when I need your attention quickly but only for a moment or two of clarification. My gradual attention signal will be a countdown from 5, so you will have a few seconds to finish your sentence or to find your seat if you are moving around the classroom.Rou-tinesMy expectation is that by the time I reach 1, everyone will be in his/her seat, quiet, and looking at me, so I can tell you what’s next. I will flash the lights one time if I need your attention instantly. My expectation is that you will immediately freeze what you are doing and look quickly and quietly at me.See/Do: Let’s see what the gradual attention signal looks like. When I say “Go,” you may talk quietly with the person next to you. Momentarily, I will do a 5-second countdown, and when I reach 1, I will have your full attention. “Go!” (Students should talk quietly, and you should repeat this routine until 100% of students are silent and looking at you when you reach 1). Thank you; this will allow us to have lots of opportunities every day to talk to each other. Now, we’re going to practice our instant attention signal. When I say, “Go,” you may talk quietly with the person next to you. Momentarily, I will flash the lights and watch for your full attention instantly. “Go!” (Students should talk quietly, and you should practice until you have 100% of students immediately freezing and looking at you when you give the instant signal.)Pair Shares (Note: some teachers find it helpful to post “voice levels.” They typically include the following: voice level 1: Silent; 2: Whisper; 3. Table talk; 4. Group presentation. Then, teachers are able to cue students non-verbally by holding up the number of fingers for the voice level students should be using.)Say: Throughout the summer, we will be frequently using think/pair/share or turn & talk to process our thinking. I will give you something to discuss, and you will turn and talk to your partner. My expectation is that you speak at a voice level that allows your partner to hear but doesn’t distract other partnerships, that you take turns speaking and listening, and that you summarize your thinking at the end, so you will be prepared to share with the class if I call on you. I also expect that you will stay on topic and respect each other’s contributions.See: This is what a partner share voice level sounds like (MODEL). Do: Take 10 seconds and talk to your partner at that voice level. (Make sure everyone is at the voice level you expect.)Say:Sometimes, I will assign you as partners A & B, so I can determine who speaks first, but most days, I will expect that you two will take turns with who speaks and who listens first. Point out who their partners will be. You will need to end your conversation by summarizing your main points to share with the class if called upon.I will not always call on you to summarize, but you need to be prepared.See: Choose a student to be your partner and model on the question, “What are you most excited about for your Breakthrough writing class?”Do: Have students practice in pairs, then cold call to share summaries.Setting GoalsSay:In our class, we are going to work on three key writing skills that I still use myself academically. We will learn how to:Write summaries, which are powerful ways to read for information, Focus on what we’re learning when we read informational text, including magazines and newspapers, and Write persuasive essays using evidence to support our thinking because those are the ones that allow us to influence the thinking of others. As your teacher, I have set goals for our academic success in the class. I am looking for us to make significant improvement in our writing from our pre-test, which you took at Orientation, to our post-test, which you will take the last week of the summer. Our pre- and post-tests will measure our success in writing a summary, writing a persuasive essay, evaluating thesis statements, and revising writing to make it stronger. See: Show class goal poster with blanks for percentages to be completed.Do: Our pre-test exam average was ______%. Talk with your partner; what percent of our class should improve from the beginning of the summer to the end? White Boards: What grade do you want to earn on your final exam? (Then, create a class average.)White Boards: What percentage of your homework assignments are you going to complete to help you achieve that goal? (Create a class average.)White Boards: Out of 25 days this summer, what percentage are you going to give your best effort to achieve these goals? (Create a class average.) Complete your individual goal sheets, while I complete our class goal poster.Say: Let’s take a moment to think about what our best effort looks like. See: For example, I think that your best effort means that you respect the limited time we have together to become excellent writers, and you demonstrate this respect by speaking one at a time, coming to class prepared, and focusing from the beginning of class to the end.”Do: Talk with a partner about what you think “best effort” should look like in this class. (This brainstorm will lead to your class contract, which should include statements such as, “We arrive ready to learn and stay focused from the beginning to the end of class.” “We listen respectfully to each other and use feedback to improve our writing and thinking.” “When we feel like giving up, we try harder.” “When we’re struggling, we think about our long-term goals to inspire us.” You don’t need to have all of these or even these specific ones, but you don’t want a list of rules, such as “No chewing gum,” as these are program-wide expectations and focus on what should NOT be done, instead of explicitly teaching what SHOULD be done. This list needs to be something you can review daily and kids can self-evaluate their progress in demonstrating these habits of excellence. Tell the students you will make copies of the list for the students to keep in their binders and share with their parents and they will have the opportunity to evaluate their progress in achieving these habits each day or each week, depending on how frequently you want to build it in. After class today, take 10 minutes and go through the summer’s lesson plans and ADD IN all of the times you plan to have students reflect on their goals and self-evaluate their performance and progress.Practicing the Skill*Guided Practice -The proving behavior of the objective monitored by the teacherAssignment: (from proving behavior):On the back of your Do Now index card, answer the following questions in complete sentences: “How will this class help you become an excellent writer? How will you measure your individual progress, and how will we track our class progress?”Criteria for Mastery:Student lists at least one of the course goals as a way the class will help, and at least one concrete strategy for measuring individual and class progress.Independent Practice Homework Assignment:Explain your homework routine, which should include HW posted in the same place every day, and the expectation that students will write their homework in their planners when you explain it. You can check every student the first day, but you should set up a system that is quick, so it might mean that students pair check to make sure the assignment is readable and matches what’s on the board exactly.What strategies are you going to use to help yourself achieve your goals? Share your plan with someone at home or another teacher at Breakthrough; explain why what you’re doing is important to you, and ask him/her to sign to support you in achieving your goals.ClosureWhipshare: Share one thing you’re learned you’re going to do today in writing class that you’re excited to do or learn. (Keep expectations high—no opting out, and all students must use complete sentences.)TEACHER EXCELLENCE RUBRIC (TER)The TER is a tool used by Breakthrough to help teachers learn and grow in their roles.Over the course of the summer, your IC will perform two full observations of your classroom instruction. ?The first will be in the first week of the program and will serve as your “baseline.” ?You will get a ranking between 1 and 4 in each area of the TER (such as use of Active Participation and clear statement of the Objective). ?This baseline will then serve as a foundation from which to provide our support and professional development. ?Since Breakthrough is a learning organization, and no teachers are expected to be perfect, there will be many opportunities for you to grow.Your IC will observe your classroom instruction again for a full class period during the 5th week of the program. ?This observation will be your “final” TER and will be used to chart your progress over the course of the summer.See the next page for the format of the TER. ? (Please note: we are currently revising the TER. This is the most current version, but it may look slightly different this summer.)28575952500 Teacher Excellence Rubric - Summer 2015Copyright ? 2014. Breakthrough Collaborative ? All Rights ReservedTeacher Name:?Subject Taught:?Date Completed:?IC Name:?Eval Type (Self or IC):?Instructions: Please enter a number, in each category, based on teacher performance as of this point in the summer. This rubric is meant to be a tool for teacher and coach reflection, and aligns with the Breakthrough belief that there is always room for improvement in our pursuit of effective instruction. This rubric will also help staff evaluate the effectiveness of our teacher training, and continuously improve the way in which we prepare teachers for the classroom.?1: Needs Attention2: Approaching Proficiency3: Proficiency, Meets Expectations4: Exceeding ExpectationsCompetencySub-CompetencyIdeal Level of CompetencyRubric ScoreGetting Yourself ReadySubmission of Lesson PlansTeacher consistently submits complete and revised lesson plans in a timely manner.?Integration of Coach FeedbackTeacher consistently incorporates Instructional Coach feedback into lesson planning, classroom instruction, and management.?PreparationTeacher exhibits high level of a preparedness for class with all materials ready in advance. Instruction is not interrupted due to lack of advance preparation.?Getting Your Students ReadyDo NowPostingTeacher posts Do Now where all students will see it upon arrival.?Do NowCongruencyTeacher designs Do Now to serve as an introduction to the day’s instruction and activates prior knowledge.?ImplementationTeacher designs Do Nows that can be completed independently, efficiently, and quietly by all students.?ObjectivePresentationTeacher posts and shares a daily objective that is rigorous and achievable with a measurable proving behavior.?ContentTeacher creates objectives that include a skill connected to the content with appropriately rigorous Bloom's verb.?Proving BehaviorTeacher consistently includes a proving behavior outlining the specific task students will complete to prove mastery of the objective's skill. ?PurposeTeacher consistently explains why lesson matters in a student-friendly and compelling way.?Building the SkillSay, See, DoTask Analysis1: TF does not follow lesson plan2: TF follows parts of the lesson plan3: TF follows all the steps4: TF accomodates for changes in the classroom; adjusting task analysis after receiving feedback from students (executing and adjusting)?Cyclical1: 1-2 SSD cycles; incomplete cycles; each cycle is more than 3-5 minutes/no opporortunity for students to practice.2: Attempts SSD cycle; language is not clear3: TF follows all steps, completes SSD cycles (at least 3)4: SSD cycles move effortlessly; TF is effectively checking for understanding; implicit variety of AP modes.?VIPs1: TF does not provide a VIP; VIP is incomplete2: TF has a VIP but does not refer to the VIP in the lesson3: TF uses VIP efficiently and effectively4: TF has various VIPs; models the VIP for students; when students struggle TF prompts students to refer back to their VIP to help build student automaticity; VIP is seen in various parts of a lesson until there is no longer a use for it.?Active ParticipationConsistency and Modalities1: Not happening; 25% and below2: Not being used consistently; not all students are participating and it is not rigorous3: Being used consistently, 75% of students participating; rigorous4: Consistent, Mandatory, Rigorous; varied modalities and the APs are effectively reflective of each step in the task analysis; teacher is using feedback from AP to adjust lesson.??PacingAccuracy and Awareness1: Pacing does not align with their agenda in the "Getting yourself Ready" section in their lesson plan; significantly too fast or too slow and does not allow student processing or completing of planned lesson; students have few opportunities to think, speak, and write.2: Generally appropriate, but does not allow for student processing and does not allow for the completion of the lesson; students have some opportunities to think, speak, or write.3: The pacing of lesson delivery and activities balances instructional time with opportunities for student processing and allows for completing of planned lesson; ensures that students have opportunities to think speak and write.4: The pacing of lesson delivery and activities consistently balances instructional time with opportunities for student processing; adjusts lesson timing as appropriate to meet needs of all students; ensures that all students have frequent opportunities to think, speak, and write.??Practicing the SkillStructured & Guided PracticeUse of SP & GP, Congruency, Gradual Release, and Criterion for Mastery1: No division between guided or structured practice; TF does not even get to guided practice; no connection to objective (Guided Practice does not align with proving behavior in objective); gradual release is too quick or never releases2: Reaches guided practice, but time is limited (5 minutes); attempted alignmentl guided practice somewhat matches the proving behavior in objective; attempt at gradual release (students are given opportunity to practice, but they are not completely independent of TF); might have addressed this with students3: Structured and Guided practice is done in a lesson; Obvious clear distinction between structured and guided practice due to seeing a gradual release of responsibility; guided practice is aligned with the proving behavior; teacher reinforcing criterion for mastery throughout the practice.4: At end of lesson, full responsibility has turned over to the student; proving behavior is actually met in guided practice; teacher is awesome.?Structured & Guided PracticeUse of SP & GP, Congruency, Gradual Release, and Criterion for MasteryClosure1: Closure does not happen2: There is an attempt to closure; TF attempts to summarize the day's learning3: TF and some students are able to summarize the day's learning4: TF and all students are able to summarize the day's learning?HomeworkCongruency and Length1: Not assigning homework2: Assign it; not aligned and is more/less than 30 minutes3: Homework is aligned, meets time requirements; TF mentions homework in lesson.4: TF assigns meaningful homework and is able to adjust homework appropriately in scripted lessons to truly align with the lesson; teacher is able to address homework in lesson and answer any questions.??Building and Maintaining Classroom CultureClassroom Procedures Clarity 1-Shows a lack of attempt or action2-TF attempts to teach all routines and procedures, yet unclear to students; some student confusion; need to re-explain.3-TF teaches all routines and procedures when needed; minimal student confusion4-TF explicitly teaches all routines and procedures clearly, often with the purpose behind it; no student confusion?Quality 1-Shows a lack of attempt or action; no procedures and routines established 2-TF has 1-2 routines in their classroom that is somewhat effective and efficient for students; 3-TF has several routines in classroom that is effective and efficient.4-TF has a sufficient repertoire of effective and efficient routines that maximizes classroom instruction time.?Classroom Procedures Consistency & Fidelity1-Shows a lack of attempt or action; no consistency in utilizing routines; less than half of the students know and follow established routines2-TF attempts to refer to and utilize routines consistently and effectively; attempts to redirect students and re-teach procedures when needed; half of the students know and follow established routines3-TF refers to and utilizes routines consistently and effectively, monitoring and reinforcing them as needed; redirects students and reteaches when needed to ensure 100% fidelity to each rule; 75-100% of students know and follow established routines.4-TF reinforces procedures when they break down, but anticipates and prevents most procedural breakdowns by proactively reinforcing procedures and regularly connects them to the purpose of maximizing instructional time. ?Achieving 100%Individual Redirects, Whole Group Redirects, and Calm1-TF shows lack of attempt or action to stay calm when responding to inappropriate behavior; does not respond at all to any inappropriate behavior. 2-TF attempts to use individual redirects (uses only one way of redirecting a student: non-verbal, anonymous, public, or private or uses the same one each time) and whole group redirects, but does not achieve 100% participation; TF attempts to remain calm when responding to inappropriate behavior.3- Teacher uses a range of individual (non-verbal, anonymous, public, and private) redirects appropriately and effectively to achieve 100% student participation and compliance; teacher uses whole group redirects effectively and appropriately to achieve 100% participation and compliance, rarely if ever having to resort to a reset; teacher maintains calm when responding to inappropriate behavior.4-Teacher uses a range individual and whole group redirects effectively and appropriately in a way that does not waste class time. Teacher maintains calm when responding to inappropriate behavior.?Giving Students FeedbackSpecific, Timely, and Effort-Related1-Shows a lack of attempt or action to give specific, timely, and effort-related feedback. 2-Teacher demonstrates attempt to provide student feedback by sometimes reinforcing appropriate behaviors and sometimes correcting inappropriate behavior with little to no feedback; response to behavior is untimely. 3-TF reinforces appropriate behavior and corrects inappropriate behavior with specific feedback that is timely and the feedback is effort-related in some sort of way. 4-TF reinforces appropriate behavior and corrects inappropriate behavior with specific feedback that regularly connects to students to Breakthrough goals, helping students to develop a growth mindset. The feedback is immediate, clear, and concise.???Classroom SpaceBoardTeacher posts objective, agenda, do now, and homework in the same place every day. ?RoomTeacher arranges room in a accessible manner to allow working the crowd.?Teacher VoiceTeacher appropriately varies the tone and volume or his or her voice while addressing students, depending on the task at hand. ?Teacher WordsTeacher uses precise, brief, and focused language during instruction. ?Teacher MovementWorking the CrowdTeacher effectively circulates around the classroom while students work, facing the group whenever possible. ?Praise, Prompt, LeaveTeacher utilizes the Praise, Prompt, and Leave technique to address individual student needs without neglecting the group. ?Teacher Body LanguageTeacher moves deliberately, makes eye contact, and maintains professional posture, effectively altering his or her physical position to best fit the task at hand. ?Giving DirectionsClarity1-Shows a lack of attempt or action; directions are unclear 2-Teacher attempts to give clear directions; directions not concise and unclear for students; 50% of students are still unclear after directions are given.3-Teacher gives exact directions that are clear enough for students to complete the task with little student confusion.4-Teacher gives exact directions that are clear, specific, and concrete to complete a task, using as few words as possible; often includes student checks for understand to make sure students understand the directions. ?Delivery1-Teacher shows a lack of attempt or action to deliver directions in a calm, clear voice; teacher often talking over students to be heard and moving around to be seen. 2-Teacher attempts to deliver directions in a calm, clear voice, but does not stand still and does not refer to any relevant resources or visuals3-TF delivers directions in a calm, clear voice with little to no movement and refers to any relevant resources or visuals4-TF delivers directions in a calm, clear voice while stand still and refers to any relevant resources or visuals; uses an effect checks for understand after giving directions and even models the directions when needed. ??Average Score?CLASSROOM OBSERVATIONSBreakthrough is an open community and while you are teaching, you will have many different guests for various reasons. ?Many of these visits will be unannounced. ?Your most frequent visitors will be your Instructional Coach (IC) and various teaching assistants (TA’s). Over the course of the summer, you may also experience one or more scheduled or unscheduled visits from the Program Director, Dean of Students, Dean of Faculty, or guests of the program. These visitors are usually “making the rounds” in order to get a sense of the progress of instruction throughout the program, or to observe the learning of students in order to better support you and them. TA’s, program administrators, or FWCD staff may also visit your class in order to take photographs or video of classroom instruction.In order for visits to go smoothly, we ask that you do the following:Ensure that two extra seats are always available in your classroom. ?These seats should be easy to reach for minimal classroom disruption.In your teams, on the first day of the program, teach the students about the expectations for visitors. ?Students should politely ignore the visitor unless directly spoken to. ?You should also ignore the visitor while you are teaching, unless you have made specific arrangements for a TA to assist with a specific part of your class. ?(If this is the case, please make sure that you and the TA agree on the expectations for what they are supposed to do, well in advance of the class itself.)Never visit a fellow teacher unannounced or without permission from program leadership. ?You should only visit a fellow teacher’s class if you have been specifically instructed to do so by your IC or Program Director for a specific reason. ?Discuss your visit with the other teacher the day before, and make sure that you are silent, non-distracting, and respectful of that teacher’s classroom instruction. ?Students may forget themselves and try to talk to you; it is your responsibility to be the adult and remind them not to talk to you, by holding a finger silently to your lips.We understand that it can be stressful to have visitors in your class. ?Breakthrough teachers are committed to excellence and observers may create anxiety. ?Please remember that we are a team. ?Everyone is here to support one another and ensure that the program achieves the highest levels of excellence. ?While some of these observations may include an element of evaluation, the purpose of that evaluation is not to judge or grade you, but so that we can learn how to support your growth and learning as a teacher this summer. ?If you feel that being observed by a particular person causes you great anxiety, please tell that person. ?It can be reassuring to have that conversation and understand their perspectives in observing you.Chapter Six ReviewKey Terms and Acronyms:Instructional Coaches (ICs)PTI (short for The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian)SUTW (Step Up to Writing)The 9 Part Essay-Color CodingBig Ideas:All Breakthrough students take courses in Literature, Writing, Science, and Math.Breakthrough uses a specific lesson plan format that includes “Getting Yourself Ready,” “Getting Your Students Ready,” “Building the Skill,” and “Practicing the Skill.”The TER is a tool designed to promote teaching fellow growth.Classrooms at Breakthrough are often observed, and teachers and students should both be prepared for visitors.Questions over Chapter Six—Record Your Own Questions Here!Thinking CriticallyWhat are the skills and concepts of your subject and grade level?What is the role of an Instructional Coach?How does the TER facilitate teaching fellow growth?Chapter Seven:Co-CurriculumThe Bears team celebrates after Spirit Day!Soccer Club practiceTeachers perform a skit during All School MeetingLEADERSHIP OVERVIEWAs one of the core values of Breakthrough, leadership is a habit of mind and way of life. ?We believe that all Breakthrough teachers are leaders. ?In addition to your primary responsibilities in your classroom, some of you will also have a specific leadership role. ?We ask that you keep an open mind about taking on a number of different possible roles and see this as an opportunity for growth and challenges!Returning teachers will be given preference for desired leadership positions, where possible.TEAMS & TEAM LEADERS (6)All Breakthrough students and teachers are organized into grade-level teams. ?Teams consist of four teachers, one from each department, and between 18-24 students. (There is one exception, which is that one of the eighth grade teams will have one more teacher)Team Leaders:7th Grade Richmond Spiders7th Grade Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets8th Grade TCU Horned Frogs8th Grade Texas Longhorns9th Grade Baylor Bears9th Grade Rice OwlsTeams are a HUGE part of community bonding and spirit. ?Our Core Values include Teamwork and Leadership, and teams provide opportunities for students and teachers to practice these skills. ?Most teachers will teach their team students in their core classes, with the exception of some math and science classes that might include a handful of students from other teams. ?Your Study Buddies (small advisories) will be students on your team. ?Any time there are group activities or competitions, such as Spirit Day, students and teachers will normally be organized by team. ??It is natural that students will bond closely with the students and teachers on their team; at the same time, teachers need to model good sportsmanship and remember that we are all one Breakthrough family. ?Team spirit never takes precedence over Breakthrough spirit. Team leaders are heads of their team and responsible for the success of team students and teachers. It is the most time-consuming of the leadership positions, and will include extra meetings after school in addition to the regular work-day. Specifically, the Team Leader is responsible for:Participating in pre-summer training via conference calls and additional assignmentsServing as a role model for others by exceeding program expectations, taking initiative, and motivating colleagues and studentsMaintaining organizational systems to run efficient weekly team meetings and daily flex periodsKeeping accurate student recordsCo-planning special events with fellow team leadersDelegating tasks to team teachersCoordinating team presentations at All School MeetingLeading team decisions regarding spirit and identity (cheers, spirit week activities, team traditions, etc.)Holding students to high behavioral and academic expectationsCoordinating family-teacher conferencesCommunicating regularly with the Dean of StudentsListening to team teachers and students and addressing concerns clearly and professionallyRespecting confidentiality with regard to student and teacher concernsAddressing student concerns and seeking assistance from the Dean of Students when appropriateMaintaining team spirit and a community of excellence, both within the team and as role models for the entire programMeeting two to three times a week with fellow Team Leaders and Breakthrough administrationTaking on any additional responsibilities as necessary and appropriate for a successful summer at BreakthroughCOMMITTEES & COMMITTEE CHAIRS (6)Every teacher will serve on, or chair, one of the Breakthrough Committees. ?The committees provide an opportunity to practice leadership and teamwork while accomplishing critical program goals outside of academic departments. ?Every person on each committee is expected to contribute, attend weekly meetings, and work hard to achieve excellence. ? While the nature of each Chairship will vary depending upon the committee you are responsible for, each Chair is responsible for the following:Participating in pre-summer training via at least one conference call plus additional pre-summer assignmentsMeeting with your Admin liaison individually during the first week of orientation and as-needed throughout the summerPlanning and leading weekly committee meetingsDelegating committee member responsibilitiesFollowing up to ensure committee goals are metKeeping records of all documents and tools used on the committee, so we can provide next year’s group with resources.Summer 2016 Committees:Photography Committee: It is important that we build a library of attractive and high quality photographs of all elements of Breakthrough. ?These photographs will be used during the summer by the students in the Yearbook club, as well as the end-of-summer slideshow. ?We will also use the photographs long after the summer is over for publicity and materials provided to potential Breakthrough donors.The Photography Chair is expected to:Ensure that photographs are taken of daily Breakthrough activities (classes, meals, ASM, and Clubs) and special events (family night, Fancy Meal, Spirit Day, High School and College Week, 8th/9th grade overnight, 7th grade fun day, and Celebration)Schedule and coordinate group photos of teams, Clubs, teachers, and the Breakthrough communityServe as liaison with Lisa Koger, FWCD Marketing Manager, who takes official photographs for FWCD publicationsCoordinate Committee members and ensure that someone with a camera is covering all necessary activities and eventsEnsure that photos are regularly uploaded to a shared Dropbox folder on a weekly basisEnsure that photos are curated, edited, and organized on a weekly basisCommunicate with the Head Sponsors of the Yearbooks clubCommunicate with the teachers coordinating the end-of-summer slideshowMembers of the Photography Committee are expected to:Take photographs of Breakthrough events and activitiesAssist the Chair in gathering photos, uploading, editing, and organizing each weekAt least one person on the Photography committee will serve as the Yearbook Club sponsorStudent Services Committee: The primary area of focus for this Committee is to run Your Opportunity (YO!), a daily Club that is designed to meet the needs of students who were not able to complete their homework for the day. The teachers in this committee will have (YO!) as their club responsibility and will not participate in other clubs. In addition to running YO!, this committee may also create and implement additional projects designed to meet student needs in creative and fun ways. Some projects that have been implemented in the past included All School Meeting Kudos where students share positive messages to each other, and a 7th/9th grade mentoring program that matched up younger students with older mentors. The Committee Chair is expected to:Oversee YO! on a daily basis and coordinate a YO! Schedule with the Dean of Students and other committee membersWrite and create YO! activities designed to build study skills and assist students in meeting their academic goalsWork with committee teachers to support individual student needsCommunicate with the Dean of Students regularly about any questions or special needs you haveTrack homework completion and YO! attendance data to monitor successCommittee members are expected to:Conduct YO! Activities to small groups of students during YO!Be responsible for your small group’s success in improving study skills and completing homeworkHelp communicate to all students and teachers the expectations for homework and YO!Be proactive about student concerns and communicate with the Committee Chair as appropriateHigh School Committee: One of the most important goals of Breakthrough is to ensure that all students apply to a variety of college preparatory high schools, including strong public, independent, parochial, and boarding schools. ?The High School Committee plays a major role in teaching 7th- and 8th-grade options and encouraging them to explore new ideas. ?To serve on this committee, it is helpful if you currently attend or have graduated from a strong college-preparatory Fort Worth high school or boarding school.The Committee Chair is expected to:Hype and coordinate the 7th grade after-school field trip to Trinity Valley School or All Saints’ during week 2 or 3 of the programPromote high expectations for high school options at All School MeetingCommunicate with Breakthrough teachers and TA’s about their high school experiences and understand who can help promote particular schoolsPlan, organize, and implement informative sessions during High School Week (July 11th-15th)Survey students and maintain accurate records about their high school options and interestsCommittee members are expected to:Assist the Committee chair in coordinating and chaperoning the field tripPromote high expectations for high school options at All School MeetingLead or co-lead at least one session for 7th and 8th graders during High School weekAll School Meeting Committee: All School Meeting (or ASM) is a special, unique daily tradition of Breakthrough. Every afternoon after lunch on Mondays through Thursdays, the entire community gathers for announcements, special presentations, skits, awards, and cheers. Each year, the ASM Committee brings its own “flavor” to ASM in order to maintain fresh and fun entertainment and information. Every member of the community will be involved in ASM in various ways—the ASM committee leads the charge!The ASM Chair is expected to:Create a daily schedule and program of events for All School Meeting, which may include traditional elements and new presentationsTeach ASM procedures (seating, audience behavior, presentation expectations, etc.) and ensure that the procedures are followedTeach students how to say the Creed and practice the Creed every day as a communityBe proactive and creative in creating opportunities to use ASM strategically to address community needs throughout the summerModel excellence in public speaking and maintain expectations of excellence for all participantsCommittee members are expected to:Support and assist the Chair in all matters related to ASMContribute significantly to ASM throughout the summer by being a visible presence both “onstage” and in encouraging students and colleagues to participateBe proactive and creative in creating opportunities to use ASM creatively throughout the summerYouth Academic Support Committee: This committee is new in Summer 2016! In an effort to formalize the tutoring process and procedures, this committee will oversee our tutoring program, helping students who need extra academic support or missed a day in the program. Committee members in this committee will miss clubs to execute tutoring. When students miss a day or need extra academic support, a teacher can request for them to go to tutoring. The Youth Academic Support Committee will collect folders of missed assignments and teaching resources for students in tutoring from all teaching fellows to help support students during tutoring. The Youth Academic Support Chair is expected to:Gather all assignments, lesson plans, and teaching resources from teachers to support students in tutoringCollect a written list of students who should be attending tutoring Communicate with teachers and Program Director about student progress in tutoringTrack student attendance and growth throughout the summer and communicate with staff and adminCommittee members are expected to:Teach lesson plans/PowerPoints from teachers to help explain material to studentsSupport committee chair in communicating with teachers and Program Director about student progress and how thoughts on how to additionally support students academicallyCollege Bound Committee: Similar to the High School Committee, the College Bound committee works to open doors to 9th grade students around college awareness and what it means to be a college bound student. Although small, this committee plays a major role in working to plan various college awareness activities throughout the summer and the annual College Week. To serve on this committee, you must be a current college student or rising college freshman and/or a 9th grade team teacher. The College Bound Chair is expected to:Work to create a calendar of events and presentations to promote college awarenessWork with the Dean of Volunteers to plan and execute College Week (July 11th-15th), including the Junior League Service PanelPromote College Readiness to entire student body and staff at All School MeetingCommunicate with Breakthrough teachers and TA’s about their college experiences and understand who can help promote particular schoolsSurvey students and maintain accurate records about their college interestsCommittee members are expected to:Assist the Committee chair in coordinating College Week and various college awareness activitiesPromote high expectations for college awareness at All School MeetingLead or co-lead at least one session for 9th graders during College Week 3098800000WORD CHALLENGEEvery morning after breakfast, all students and teachers will spend 10 minutes a day learning new vocabulary words! At the end of each week, students will take a quiz that tests how much they have learned. Each Study Buddy group competes to have the highest overall score for the week.It is the teacher’s responsibility to… Study each week’s words in advanceTeach two words a day to your Study Buddy groupAssess students informally on a daily basis in order to ensure that they are internalizing the new words and able to use them on their ownKeep track of weekly quiz performance and follow up with individual students for extra help when neededSample daily word lesson: Novice(sounds like “nah-viss”)Toil(sounds like “toy-ill”)Definition: (n) a rookie, someone new to a situationSynonym: rookie, newcomer, neophyteAntonym: expert, professional, veteran Definition: (v) to engage in difficult, hard work Synonym: drudge, strain, laborAntonym: idle, laze, neglect Picture: Sentence (write your own!): Picture: Sentence (write your own!): 1. When Alessandra asked students to give kudos, the crowd ____________________ and gave a strong double clap. 2. In the Dance Club, Casi, who was a ______________ dancer before, is learning the skills to become an expert. 3. Having Study Buddies in the afternoon helps students prioritize their time so that they don’t have to ____________________ as much on homework at home.ALL SCHOOL MEETINGAll School Meeting, or ASM, is one of the cornerstones of Breakthrough and a hugely important tradition. The goals of All School Meeting are to (1) share important and announcements with the community, (2) share joy and excitement as a community, and (3) provide opportunities to practice and demonstrate public speaking skills. While ASM incorporates traditions lasting for many summers (such as choosing one student and one teacher to serve as the Emcee for the day), each year’s faculty brings its own unique contributions as well! Please check out our Summer 2012 Video to see a few clips of what All School Meeting looks like: (skip ahead to 6:01 for the section on ASM—then come back and watch the whole thing when you have time!). In general, ASM always includes the following daily traditions:EmceesAnnouncementsTeam FactStudent of the day (may go by a different name according to the summer’s theme)Special PresentationCreedAs you can imagine, “special presentations” will vary from day to day. Some past special presentations have been a workshop on high school opportunities, detailed announcements or skits about an upcoming event, a group game, a video screening followed by discussion about bullying, and many, many others!And we also have rotating additions on different days of the week:Teacher Skit MondayTalent TuesdayWild Card WednesdayDebate ThursdayThere is no ASM on most Fridays because students go home immediately after lunch. Typically, the last All School Meeting of the summer is a much longer special ASM with extra presentations by teachers, students, and admins. Aside from the last ASM, each team is responsible for certain portions of ASM on a rotating schedule. The parts of ASM that rotate by team are the Emcee (one teacher and one student per team; every teacher will host ASM once during the summer), the Team Fact (traditionally presented by a student about the team’s college), and the Gold Medalist (presented by one team teacher to a student in his/her class). See the next page for the rotating team schedule.Date2451100-2413000TeamJune 20BearsJune 21OwlsJune 22LonghornsJune 23Horned Frogs??June 27SpidersJune 28Yellow JacketsJune 29BearsJune 30Owls??July 5LonghornsJuly 6Horned FrogsJuly 7Spiders??July 1124511003302000Yellow JacketsJuly 12BearsJuly 13OwlsJuly 14LonghornsJuly 18SpidersJuly 19Horned FrogsJuly 20Yellow JacketsJuly 21LonghornsJuly 2524511002349500SpidersJuly 26Yellow JacketsJuly 27Horned FrogsJuly 28Bears and OwlsJuly 29Special ASMCHEERS AND GAMESAs you may have noticed if you watched the entirety of the Summer 2012 Video, Breakthrough is imbued with a sense of fun and joy. While we are in no way just a “summer camp,” we do enjoy certain kinds of summer camp activities, like cheering and playing silly games.Teachers will learn the Breakthrough cheers throughout Teacher Training. If you are a new teacher, it is okay to feel a little nervous and uncertain, but keep in mind that the absolute best way to make a mistake is loudly and confidently! Also, returning teachers and past TA’s will be happy to help you learn and practice the Breakthrough cheers. A handful of the cheers you will learn include:Attitude CheckEnergy CheckWiggaloIce Cream and CakeLittle Red WagonFroggyThe Corn CheerIggle WiggleBanana CheerLet Me See You Get DownIf You Love BreakthroughOf course, this is just a starting point—not only that, but this list always changes! If you know some fun cheers you can bring to Breakthrough, please teach us! Better yet, make up a new one!Aside from cheers, we also play games. Games might take place during Snack Time, lunch time, All School Meeting, Flex Time, or during special events like the 8th/9th Grade Overnight. We’ll start learning some of these games during Teacher Training. As with the cheers, it is always wonderful for teachers to bring in new and different games. To learn some of the games we have played in the past, check out this great video from 2012: Seven ReviewKey Terms and Acronyms:Team LeadersCommittee ChairsClubsWord ChallengeAll School Meeting (ASM)Big Ideas:Every teacher serves on a Department, Team, and Committee, and teams and committees each have a specific teacher as the leader.Many of the Committees are in charge of elements of Breakthrough that incorporate the entire community (not just those on that Committee).Students practice learning new vocabulary and their presentation skills through co-curricular elements like Word Challenge and All School Meeting.Thinking CriticallyWhat is your personal leadership style, and how do you hope to exercise it as a leader at BT?Each leadership role has an Admin Liaison, a program adult who will support you in your role. How can you work proactively to make best use of this resource?How do the co-curricular elements fit the Breakthrough mission of providing talented middle-schoolers with pathways to top high schools and eventually college?Why are cheers and games critical to the spirit of Breakthrough?Questions over Chapter Seven—Record Your Own Questions Here!Chapter Eight:Daily Schedule34099504219575000352742500297180086614000-635000Breakthrough Daily Schedule (Teacher Version)MondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFriday7:007:30Morning RoutineMorning RoutineMorning RoutineMorning RoutineMorning Routine7:307:45Morning HuddleMorning HuddleMorning HuddleMorning HuddleMorning Huddle7:458:10BreakfastBreakfastBreakfastBreakfastBreakfast8:108:20Word ChallengeWord ChallengeWord ChallengeWord ChallengeWord Challenge8:259:20Period 1Period 1Period 1Period 1Period 19:2510:20Period 2Period 2Period 2Period 2Period 210:2510:35Team Time & SnackTeam Time & SnackTeam Time & SnackTeam Time & SnackTeam Time & Snack10:4011:35Period 3Period 3Period 3Period 3Period 311:4012:35Period 4Period 4Period 4Period 4Period 412:401:05LunchLunchLunchLunchLunch1:101:50StudyBuddiesStudyBuddiesStudyBuddiesStudyBuddiesFlex Time /Dismissal (1:20)1:552:20All School MeetingAll School MeetingAll School MeetingAll School Meeting1:25-5:30Friday Routine2:253:10Clubs/Team Leader Mtg.Clubs /Team Leader Mtg.Clubs/Team Leader Mtg.Clubs /Team Leader Mtg.3:153:50Flex TimeFlex TimeFlex TimeFlex Time3:504:00DismissalDismissalDismissalDismissal4:005:30Afternoon RoutineAfternoon RoutineAfternoon RoutineAfternoon RoutineMORNING ROUTINETime StudentsTeachers Notes6:45Students who arrive early go to FDP, have breakfastTeachers are arriving, getting ready for day, etc. ?6:506:557:007:057:107:157:207:257:30All teachers at FDP Bus Drop-Off Location for Morning HuddleMorning Huddle led by Team Leader7:357:40Buses arriving, students go in FDP for breakfastTeachers cheer as buses arrive & move into FDP maintaining 4:1 student:teacher ratio7:457:507:558:00All students should be in FDP with breakfastAll faculty should be in FDP with breakfast8:05Welcome, Announcements Program Director welcomes, announces, teachers reinforce 8:10Teachers lead Word Challenge with their Study BuddiesTeachers teach 2 words, students complete squares in their binders 8:20Dismissal TA's help with cleaning up tables, students and teachers move quickly & efficiently8:25Period 1 Begins?AFTERNOON ROUTINETime MondayTuesdayWednesdayThursday4:00Captain Planet Time: Clean your assigned team area and classroom4:054:10Daily Details: Note daily attendance, homework completion, student progress towards objectives, make behavioral comments. Teachers MUST work in designated faculty room or downstairs computer lab.4:154:204:254:30Announcements4:354:40Professional DevelopmentTeam MeetingsCommittee MeetingsNext Week at BTFW4:454:504:555:005:055:105:155:205:25Kudos5:35Dismissal Teachers may stay after for informal meetings, work on lesson plans, etc. School closes at 7:00pm.FRIDAY ROUTINE (Does not apply to 7/1 or 7/29)Time Activity1:15Captain Planet Time: Clean your assigned team area and classroom1:30Daily Details (same as Monday-Thursday)1:45End of Week Teacher Reflections2:00Team Meeting2:152:302:453:00Work Time / One-on-ones with Directors 3:153:303:45Kudos4:00DismissalOptional: Evening social activity (e.g. dinner, movie)FWCD HOURS In general, teachers are expected to be present and on campus from 7:15am to 5:30pm, Monday-Thursday, 7:15-4:00 on Fridays. Many days, you may wish to arrive early and/or stay late.School opens: 6:45amSchool closes: 7:00pmSaturdays: 9am to 6:30pmPlease note that on Saturdays, you should call Security (817) 732-2751 before you arrive so that they know you are coming; they can also open your classroom for you. FWCD is closed on Sundays.AM FACULTY HUDDLEEvery morning, Breakthrough teachers and staff get together at 7:30 sharp (7:31 is late) to start the day with the morning faculty huddle. ?We meet at the Cafeteria, where the buses drop off the students. ?Each huddle is led by a Team Leader on a rotating schedule that follows the same rotation as the ASM schedule, who leads the group through quick, last minute announcements specific to the day.Who attends Huddle?All Breakthrough teachers (every day)Dean of Students, Dean of Faculty, Dean of Volunteers, and Program Director (every day)Director (as needed, not every day)Instructional Coaches and the Office Manager are not expected to attend Huddle. ?TA’s may attend Huddle if they arrive early.BUS GREETINGIn the morning right after Huddle, students will begin to arrive from buses and cars. ?Teachers will come up with fun ways to greet the students as they arrive for the day. ?For example:Breakthrough cheer or songNoisemakers & musical instrumentsBlowing soap bubblesHiding until students arrive, then jumping out at themWalking like zombiesShouting each student’s name as they get off the busBringing sleeping bags to the sidewalk, lying down in them, and pretending you spent the night awaiting the students’ arrivalAll teachers should be present for the first bus arrival. ?After some students arrive, then teachers should go in the cafeteria with them in an appropriate ratio of one teacher to every four students.So, for example: when the first bus arrives, imagine it has 20 students. That means that 5 teachers should go to the cafeteria with the students to help monitor and spend time with them.All buses should arrive by 8:00, at which time all teachers should go to the cafeteria. ?If there are any late buses, no more than 4 teachers may stay outside to greet the last bus.BREAKFASTWe will go through the procedures for breakfast in more detail during teacher training, but in general, teachers are expected to:Sit with students and bond with them, andMaintain the breakfast rules & procedures.Teachers are never permitted to eat Breakthrough cafeteria food.WORD CHALLENGEStudents learn two new vocabulary words each day Monday-Thursday. On Friday, students take a quiz, and the Study Buddy group with the highest average score on their quizzes wins!PASSING PERIODSStudents have five minutes to get from one class to another, and they can also use the restrooms and get water in this time. ?There is more than enough time during passing periods. ?All teachers should consider themselves on “hall duty” during passing periods. ?If you are between two classes that you teach, open your door and stand in the doorway to greet your next group of students. ?If you are not teaching, please step into the hallway, Commons, or science building to help monitor.PREP TIMEEvery teacher will have 2 “prep” periods each day. ?One period will be used for department meetings every day; the other period will be open for teachers to use as appropriate. These periods are not “free periods.” ?Given the myriad of responsibilities you have throughout the day, you will need to use it well to be successful. ?Teachers must remain on campus during this time. ?Here is a list of things you should use your prep time for daily:Meet with the other teacher(s) who teach your same grade and department.Prepare your own core class or club plans.Review student work.Participate in post-observation conferences with your Instructional Coach.Work with one of your team teachers in preparation for Spirit Day or a team activity.Plan and prepare for All School Meeting.Do work for your Committee.Meet with an admin for support in your class, leadership position, club, or general support.Breakthrough Fort Worth is very fortunate to have a wide range of places that teachers can work during their prep times. ?However, because we share classrooms, you will not be able to work in your classroom during your prep times because another class will be taking place. ?No matter where you work, please be aware that other teachers need a professional and quiet atmosphere to be efficient and productive. ?Here’s a rundown of places you can work:The designated faculty room. ?This is the main meeting room for teachers during Training and for all-faculty meetings. ?You can eat in this room. ?It tends to double as a lounge and therefore if you really need to concentrate you probably should work somewhere else. ?It is great for easier tasks or group projects that do not require heavy concentration.Upper School Commons. ?The Commons is a great place to work because it is in the middle of everything and it’s usually easy to find someone if you need them. ?It is right next to many classrooms, so you need to be professional and quiet when working in the commons. ?It is helpful if at least a couple of teachers are working in the Commons at all times; in the event of emergencies, a teacher can easily find help.Science Common Area. ?Similar to the Upper School Commons but a bit more secluded.Instructional Coach Classrooms. ?When Instructional Coaches are out observing, they may permit you to work in their classrooms. ?Please be respectful of their space and make sure it is okay for you to work there. ?If the IC has a conference with another teacher it is best for you to work somewhere else.With these options, you should be able to find a good place to work. ?It is important that we be able to find you during your prep periods, so we ask that you please stick mainly to these areas. ?If you have a good reason for wanting to go elsewhere on campus during your prep periods, please check in with the office so that we know where you are if we need you.Breakthrough teachers are fun and interesting people. ?It is normal to want to spend time socializing with one another. ?Please be respectful of each other’s workloads. ?You don’t have much time to waste during prep periods. ?If you want to take a break and “goof off” a bit, the Schwartz Room is the best place to do this. ?Remember that the walls are thin and with classrooms nearby, it is important to keep conversations at a reasonable volume.TEAM TIME & SNACKSSnacks will take place between second and third period. ?This will provide a break between academic classes and also hopefully alleviate some of the fourth-period silliness that students can get caught up in when they are hungry for lunch! It also provides a laid-back time for team bonding and announcements. All team teachers should be present during Team Time/Snacks. If you have an unusual amount of clean-up or set-up for your class, please let your team know.Snacks will be kept in a specific storage area (TBA for summer 2014). ?The team should work out which teacher is responsible for bringing snacks for the team. That way you will be prepared and will not need to rush and find your snacks in the morning.Snack time is scheduled to end at 10:35am. ?Students should head straight to their period 3 class at that time. ?Other food and drink should not be distributed in classrooms unless you receive special permission from an administrator. Teachers should never eat the student snacks.LUNCH All teachers are expected to attend lunch with the students, at the same time as students. ?If you have a planning period during 4th period, you must prepare your lunch before the bell rings so that you are ready to meet your students and walk them to the cafeteria. If you teach a 4th period class, you should have your lunch prepared in the Schwartz Room so that after class, you can grab it quickly and then head over to the cafeteria. ?It is best to bring a “cold lunch” but if you need to bring something microwavable, take it with you to the cafeteria; there will be microwaves available.All students are expected to go through the lunch line and eat their lunch. ?Teachers who are 18 years old or under will have a system of going through the line and getting seconds for other students. ?We will work out the best system of doing this during teacher training and Meal Assistants will help keep the system running smoothly.In general, during lunch, teachers are expected to:Sit with the students and bond with them, andMaintain the lunch rules & procedures.During lunch as well as breakfast, remember to avoid “blood clots” and keep kids in focus!There should be no reason to arrive at lunch late, or leave early. ?We need 100% of teachers present at all meals to help supervise and keep things on track.* Last year, the Fort Worth Country Day cafeteria staff opened a snack bar for faculty between the hours of 11am to noon. It offered a daily hot option such as chicken fingers or a hamburger, plus a few sides, at reasonable low prices. The snack bar takes cash only. Assuming it will be open again this summer, the snack bar will close before Breakthrough lunch begins, but teachers who do not teach a class 4th period may head over to buy snacks for themselves (or for their friends who are busy teaching that period!). Teachers may not buy or bring food for students at any time.ALL SCHOOL MEETING (ASM)ASM is one of the cornerstones of Breakthrough. ?It is a daily assembly full of skits, special presentations, and fun. ?While there are certain traditions that make up ASM (like Emcees, Team Fact, etc.), there is always plenty of room for innovation and new ideas!(Refer back to the Co-Curriculum chapter for more details on ASM.)FLEX TIMEFlex Time is a daily period that will be used for different purposes throughout the summer. ?Typically, this time will be spent in Teams or grades. ?Some examples of Flex Time activities might be:Breakthrough ExpectationsPreparation for Spirit Week Preparation for Fancy Meal (8th only)ASM PracticeHigh School Information Sessions (7th/8th only)College Week Activities (9th only)Team CelebrationsAnnouncementsUnless otherwise indicated, the Team Leader is primarily responsible for planning Flex Time and setting the expectations for the day. ?Other teachers on the teams should:Spend the entire Flex Time* in the classroom with students and Team LeaderSupport Team Leader by following his/her procedures and expectationsTake on certain roles as determined by the team (for example, one teacher might be in charge of taking notes about team decisions, one teacher might be in charge of passing out papers, etc.)*If you are helping out with Bus Dismissal you will need to leave Flex Time 5 minutes early.BUS DISMISSALWhen the bell rings for the end of the day at 3:50pm, teachers should:Walk with students out to the busesWave goodbye and cheer as students load the busesStay outside and engaged with students until 4:00pm.Sometimes there will be a late bus. In those cases, the Office Manager will stay outside with students to ensure they are being supervised. Teachers still need to come inside at 4:00pm in order to take care of their additional responsibilities.CAPTAIN PLANET TIMEAfter dismissal, 10 minutes are devoted to straightening our environment and ensuring that we have a comfortable, neat, and safe place to work. ?There are six main common areas, which each team will be assigned to on a rotating schedule: Supply RoomDesignated Faculty RoomUpper School CommonsStorage Room and Faculty RestroomComputer Lab and Upstairs RestroomsScience Building and Science RestroomsAfter working with your team on your common area, you should have time to go to your own classroom and take care of any quick clean-up there, as well. ?Then you can grab your classroom binder, and head down to the Schwartz Room or the Computer Lab for Daily Details.DAILY DETAILSBeing an effective classroom teacher means a whole lot more than just planning and teaching lessons. ?It also involved keeping track of a large number of details about your students’ work and your own. ?What homework am I planning to assign on Tuesday? ?Who was absent today and what assignments did s/he miss? ?When will I get them to him/her? ?How are each of my individual students doing? ?In the hustle and bustle of a typical day, it is easy to let these details slip. ?This makes it difficult to track your students’ progress, as well as making you feel overwhelmed by everything you need to keep track of. ?Keeping track of daily details is beneficial in a number of ways. ?Details:Inform Lesson Design. ?Through Daily Details, you can reflect on the status and performance of each individual student and tailor your teaching accordingly. ?By tracking student performance and comprehension on a daily basis, you will be able to revise your lesson plans according to the level of student comprehension in your class. ?If some students were absent, or did not fully grasp the learning objective on a given day, you will know that modifications will be necessary the next day.Guide Team Meetings and Kid Talk. ?With most teachers on a team sharing the same students for most classes, it is helpful to have an awareness of student issues. ?Perhaps one student is struggling to complete homework in one class, but always does amazing work in another. ?Maybe two students model excellent behavior when separated, but get easily distracted when sitting together. ?Writing out your daily details in anticipation of Kid Talk will help these conversations.Help in Preparation for Family Conferences. ?In the middle of the summer, you will meet with your students and their parents/guardians. ?Keeping track of Daily Details will help you prepare for those conferences. ?With these details at your fingertips, you will be able to discuss each individual student’s strengths and areas for improvement.Increase Staff Awareness of Student Needs. ?Despite being unable to be in every class, we will have the opportunity to get to know the academic profile and needs of individual students through the Academic Objectives Evaluation.Provides a record of evidence that can be used in Academic Narratives. At the end of each summer, teachers are required to write a one page academic narrative for each student. Well done daily details provide with the evidence you need to write successful and meaningful academic narratives for students, families, staff, and school year teachers. In order to be effective in the classroom, you will need to stay on top of these details. ?We are trying a new idea at Breakthrough Fort Worth, modeled after the system at Saint Paul, which was much liked by teachers and staff. ?We are setting aside a small block of time after school each day devoted exclusively to the “daily details.” ?This will be a regular part of the afternoon routine. ?We have created forms to help you stay organized. ?Use them. ?The areas that you will need to keep tabs on are:Daily Attendance: Track attendance in your core classes, Clubs, and Team. ?Homework Completion: Keep track of the homework students turn in for your core class. ?Student Mastery of Daily Objectives: Keep track of how many students achieved an in-class mastery level of 80% on your daily objective. Student Behavior Comments: Throughout the summer note specific examples of excellence, as well as specific areas for improvement. ?These comments will be very helpful at Kid Talk, conferences, and when it’s time to write end-of-summer student evaluations. ?You do not need to comment on every student every day; an average of one or two comments a week per student should be fine. This form should be competed on GoogleDocs.FRIDAYSIn order to support teachers in their growth, we have set aside time each week to devote to teacher development. ?After lunch on Fridays, you will have a quick Team Time with your students, and then they have early dismissal.Following student dismissal on Fridays, we will have the following:Captain Planet TimeDaily DetailsAnnouncementsTeacher ReflectionsKid Talk: 55-minute meetings with your teams. ?Team Leaders are responsible for Kid Talk, which is a time to discuss student concerns common to your team. ?See the Kid Talk section for more details.Work-time/One-on-ones with Directors. This is an essential time to finish up any lingering projects from the week, as well as get a head start on next week. Additionally, you can meet individually with your admin liaisons or other admins as needed.Chapter Eight ReviewKey Terms and Acronyms:AM Faculty HuddleBus GreetingWord ChallengePrep TimeSchwartz RoomAll School Meeting (ASM)Flex TimeBus DismissalCaptain Planet TimeDaily DetailsBig Ideas:Breakthrough teachers are expected to be on campus every day from 7:15am to 5:30pm.There is no such thing as a “free period” at Breakthrough.All teachers should consider themselves on “hall duty” during passing periods.Friday afternoons are early dismissals for students, giving teachers extra time to prep and get ready for the next week!Thinking CriticallyHow does the structure of the daily schedule reflect the academic mission of the program?Think about the busy, long hours of BT. What implications does this have for your out-of-school time? (evenings, weekends)Questions over Chapter Six—Record Your Own Questions Here!Chapter Nine:Special Events3019425131445000-857250002895600422846500-857253305175003886200216217500SPECIAL EVENTS OVERVIEWAt Breakthrough Fort Worth we will have a number of events and special occasions. ?In general, unless otherwise indicated, the expectation of teachers is that you will be present, helpful, and ready to take on any leadership role needed. ?Most special events are entirely run by teachers; even those that aren’t require your leadership and presence.FACULTY DINNERSDates: Tuesday, June 7 (required); Friday, June 10 and 17 (mandatory fun)During Teacher Training, we will have many opportunities for you to bond and socialize with your fellow teachers. ?All teachers are expected to attend June 10; we hope that you will attend the Friday night socials as well, which will also include fun activities like movie nights and Fort Worth sightseeing.FAMILY NIGHT(S)Date: Tuesday, June 14Family Night is an opportunity for you to meet the students and their parents/guardians. ?Students will also receive their class and bus schedules, take tours of the FWCD campus, and review Breakthrough expectations. -1016017272000left194437000FANCY MEALDate: Thursday, June 23Held at the Fort Worth Club, Fancy Meal is a combination fundraiser and social lunch event for our 9th-graders to practice table manners and conversational skills. ?All 9th-grade students and teachers attend Fancy Meal, which takes place during lunchtime and right after. ?Also, 9th-graders do not have a 3rd or 4th period class on June 25. ?Attire at Fancy Meal is business dress.SPIRIT WEEKDates: Monday, June 27 through Thursday, June 30thTaking place during the second week of the program, Spirit Week is an opportunity for Breakthrough students and teachers to bond with their teams and show Breakthrough Spirit by dressing up and making up fun cheers. ?Example dress-up days from the past include Superheroes, Tacky Day, Crazy Hair Day, etc. ?All teachers are expected to participate in Spirit Week enthusiastically. We will let you know the dress-up themes as soon as possible so that out-of-town teachers can be prepared. However, keep in mind that it’s far more fun and cost-effective to simply be creative—there’s no need to pack an extra suitcase of costumes for Spirit Week!INDEPENDENCE DAYDate: Monday, July 4thThere is no school on July 4. ?The FWCD campus will not be open.017145000SPIRIT DAYDate: Thursday, June 30thAs the capstone of Spirit Week, Spirit Day is an all-community event and competition, similar to the loudest, craziest pep rally you can imagine. ?Teams present songs, skits, dances, and/or cheers. ?The high energy and fun of the day help build community among teams and the entire Breakthrough family. ?Teachers are expected to help their students prepare for Spirit Day and maintain an atmosphere of good sportsmanship and camaraderie.354266516002000HIGH SCHOOL WEEKDates: Monday, July 11th-Friday, July 15th During High School Week, we will work hard to promote the expectation that all Breakthrough students will attend and thrive in a strong college preparatory high school. ?We will feature different high schools at All School Meeting, during Flex Times, and throughout our conversations with students. ?The High School Committee takes primary responsibility for planning High School Week. ?All teachers are expected to support the goals of this week; teachers who attend or have attended top high schools in the area (or boarding schools) will be expected to share their experiences with students.COLLEGE WEEKDates: Monday, July 11th-Friday, July 15thDuring College Week, we will work to promote college readiness and awareness with our 9th grade students. Although our first expectation is that all Breakthrough students will attend in a strong college preparatory high school, our second expectation is that all Breakthrough students will attend a four year college or university. We will feature different colleges during All School Meeting, Flex Times, and throughout our conversation with students. We will also prepare them for their first days of high school and actions they should be taking to prepare them for a four year college and university. The College Bound Committee takes primary responsibility for planning College Week, as well as other College Awareness events; teachers who are college students and are 9th grade teacher will be expected to share their experiences with students. HIGHT SCHOOL TRIPDate: TBDWe offer 7th-graders and their parents/guardians the opportunity to visit a local high school which we believe is one of the strongest local options for high school. ?This trip takes place after school and does not interfere with regular Breakthrough activities. ?We ask that 7th-grade teachers help us collect permission slips in a timely manner. ?Teachers who are on the High School Committee or who attend the high school of choice should plan to participate in this field trip as chaperones or tour guides. ?Other teachers are welcome but not expected to attend.PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCESDates: Friday, July 8-Saturday, July 9Every Breakthrough student will participate in a conference with his/her teachers and parents/guardians. ?The student plays a key role in leading this conference, which provides a great opportunity to discuss the students’ successes and challenges in the Breakthrough program so far. ?All teachers must be present at all conferences and should make plans to be present at Breakthrough on Friday afternoon, and Saturday between 9am-6pm. ?This is not a good weekend to go out of town or make alternate commitments. ?Conferences are some of the most valuable and important times you will have with your students, and it is always a pleasure to meet the families who are so appreciative of what you do.3238500100012500CHAMPIONS’ DAYDate: Tuesday, July 19Champions’ Day is an opportunity for major funders, partners, and potential Breakthrough supporters to visit our program and see it in action. ?We will recognize these visitors at All School Meeting; they may also observe classes. ?A small number of students and teachers will be asked to participate in a special panel. ?The expectation is that teachers will be polite, warm hosts for these guests, and represent Breakthrough positively as the wonderful academic experience it is. -381001573530007TH GRADE FUN DAYDate: Friday, July 22Similar to an elementary school “field day,” this event is designed to be fun and competitive, giving students the opportunity to bond with others in their grade in a silly carnival-like atmosphere. ?Activities usually include watermelon-eating contests, water balloon throws, silly relays, water games, and capture the flag. ??7th grade team leaders are responsible for planning and carrying out 7th Grade Fun Day effectively. ?All 7th grade teachers are expected to attend and help lead activities. There are no classes for 7th graders on Fun Day. (8th and 9th graders will be at 8th and 9th grade Overnight.)8TH/9th GRADE OVERNIGHTDates: Thursday, July 21-Friday, July 22The purpose of this event is to provide a fun outdoor experience and bonding for 8th- and 9th-grade students and teachers. ?It takes place at the Texas Star, a retreat facility about 1 hour west of Fort Worth. ?We will provide bus transportation as well as coordinated carpooling. ?Activities include volleyball, basketball, swimming, scary stories, hikes, movie-watching, and a late-night dance! ?8th and 9th grade team leaders are responsible for planning and carrying out 8th/9th grade overnight effectively. ?All 8th and 9th-grade teachers are expected to attend and spend the night. ?There are no classes for 8th- and 9th-graders on Friday, July 24. 7th-grade teachers are not allowed to attend (because you have Fun Day the next day!).FINAL EXAMSDates: Tuesday, July 26, Wednesday, July 27, and Thursday, July 29All academic classes (Literature, Writing, Math, and Science) conclude with final exams. Teachers are expected to plan in advance so that students are prepared to take the exams successfully!LAST DAY OF SCHOOLDate: Friday, July 29We will have a modified schedule on the last day of school that allows for Celebration practice, final team activities, and a special afternoon activity. ?There are no regular classes on the last day of school. ?We will most likely take the students roller skating in the afternoon. All teachers are expected to engage fully with their students on the last day we have with them, including skating with them!43942002349500CELEBRATIONDate: 2pm-6pm, Saturday, July 30Celebration is the major capstone event of the entire summer. ?Every student is expected to attend Celebration with their parents or guardians. ?The main component of Celebration is that each student presents a Presentation of Learning to families and other guests. ?Students will spend time during Study Buddies and Flex during the last two weeks of the program getting ready for Celebration. In addition, we also have a stage show incorporating speeches, songs, special awards, and other presentations. We conclude with a celebratory potluck dessert, as well as tears and picture time! All teachers will have a major role to play in Celebration. This is not a good weekend to go out of town. WRAP-UP WEEKDates: Monday, August 1-Wednesday, August 3During Wrap Up Week, teachers will have many responsibilities, including writing final evaluations of each student, grading final exams, meeting with their committees and teams, providing final comments to Breakthrough directors, meeting with their Instructional Coach for their end-of-summer conference, and cleaning up the FWCD campus. ?Many of these tasks are group responsibilities, which means that your presence is needed in order to ensure that your group is successful. ?Teachers are expected to be present on the FWCD campus during Wrap Up Week, turn in all required materials on time, and be helpful to other teachers if you finish earlier.CLOSING BANQUETDate: Wednesday, August 3This is the closing event and final group experience for the summer. ?All teachers will have the chance to share closing thoughts, thank-yous, or special presentations. ?We usually have the banquet at a restaurant like Blue Mesa (specifics TBA). ?The expectation is that you will be present and fully engaged as we close out our summer together. ?Attire is business dress.Chapter Nine ReviewKey Terms and Acronyms:Fancy MealSpirit Week/DayHigh School WeekTVSChampions’ Day8th/9th Grade Overnight7th Grade Fun DayCelebrationWrap-Up WeekBig Ideas:Teachers are expected to attend and support all special events (as appropriate to their grade level).Celebration is the major capstone event of the summer, taking place in the afternoon this year!Thinking CriticallyHow do the numerous special events reflect the Core Values of the program?Which special event are you most excited about, and why?Questions over Chapter Nine—Record Your Own Questions Here!CHAPTER TEN:REFERENCE-3378207493000Summer 2016 Teaching FellowsMollyMoranTeaching FellowLiteraturemmmoran2@crimson.ua.edu225-270-1460AnnaBurkettTeaching FellowLiteratureanbur003@mail.goucher.edu740-258-7234Megan MeadowsTeaching FellowLiteraturemegan.l.meadows@vanderbilt.edu8176761696RohanMirchandaniTeaching FellowLiteraturerohanmirc@4694494081BriannaGipsonTeaching FellowLiteraturebrianna.gipson@tcu.edu9728157668Jessica Sustaita Teaching FellowLiterature jessicasustaita13@8178002355JoaquimCarvalhoTeaching FellowMathjack.carvalho@267-815-8420AnanyaRajeshTeaching FellowMatheananya@4694416057AndiAguyaoTeaching FellowMathAndi.aguayo@8173530475VickyArenasTeaching FellowMatharenas.virginia17@8178974031AmnaSyedTeaching FellowMathamnas913@8173209849DanielCastroTeaching FellowMathdc121693@8179259774ConnerWilliamsTeaching FellowScienceconner.williams@7138760235ZaraParkinsonTeaching FellowScienceparzm-19@rhodes.edu8172479747ScottDaiTeaching FellowSciencescotthdai@4693601569SolCruzTeaching FellowSciencesol.ali.cruz@8177150445InsiyahSaeedTeaching FellowScienceinsiyah.saeed8@8179331949AubreyMasseyTeaching FellowWritingaubreytmassey@8172012140KarinaHinzTeaching FellowWritingkarina.hinz@tcu.edu248-701-6354SophieWangTeaching FellowWritingsop.wang07@857-318-8230LauraPearsonTeaching FellowWritinglauracpearson94@918-520-7761Danielle Cushing Teaching FellowWritingdanielle.cushing@okstate.edu303-946-2167FiametaAndeTeaching FellowWritingfiameta-ande@uiowa.edu319-450-3367JoeValentine-WhiteInstructional CoachLiterature & Writingjoevw@umich.edu4103715856JessicaUseryInstructional CoachLiterature & Writingjusery23@303-901-9741Jocelyn CipolaroInstructional CoachLiterature & Writingjcipolaro@9176085690JacksonHulettInstructional CoachMathjackson.hulett@ or jackson.hulett@682-438-6589RavenSaqerInstructional CoachScienceraven.saqer@8173436461Joe BreedloveExecutive Directorjoe.breedlove@8173073837NicoleMasoleProgram Directornicole.masole@4693632844Rudi FloresDean of Studentsrudi.flores@8176731404JanetteQuezadaDean of Volunteersjeanette.quezada@8178517273Dev'n GoodmanDean of Facultydgoodttu@940-745-0610Breakthrough Fort Worth Leadership TeamSummer 2016Joe Breedlove, Executive Director Joe.breedlove@ Joe is a Fort Worth native with over 30 years of experience in education. He is a graduate of Fort Worth Country Day and Texas Christian University, and has served as Breakthrough Director since 2002. He lives in Fort Worth with his wife, Andrea, and his two children, McKenna (18) and Joseph (15). As the full-time Director, Joe is responsible for ensuring the long-term mission of Breakthrough is met.Nicole Masole, Program DirectorNicole.masole@ Nicole received a BA in Plan II Honors and Government from The University of Texas at Austin and a Masters in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. During college, Nicole served as a teaching fellow at Breakthrough Fort Worth for two summers and also served as a campus leader at UT-Austin. After graduation, Nicole joined Teach For America as a seventh-grade mathematics teacher in St. Louis and also gained summer experience with Goldman Sachs as an analyst and Teach For America Institute as a corps member advisor. As the Program Director, Nicole oversees general program operations and is responsible for guiding the long-term strategies of teacher training, curriculum and instruction at Breakthrough Fort Worth.Rudi Flores, Dean of StudentsRudi.flores@ Rudi Flores returns to Breakthrough in the permanent role as Middle School Coordinator and in the summer, he serves as the Dean of Students. Rudi was a Breakthrough student from 2001-03 and taught in the Breakthrough summer program from 2005-10. Rudi serves as a corps member and team leader for City year (an AmeriCorps national service network) in San Antonio, Texas, where he completed 4,000 hours of service at S.J. Davis Middle School working with sixth-grade math classes. Rudi was the first in his family to graduate from college and holds a BA in Electronic Media with a minor in Spanish from The University of Texas at El Paso. As the full-time Dean of Students, Rudi is responsible for ensuring that each student’s personal and academic needs are met while they are at Breakthrough.Janette Quezada, Dean of Volunteersjeanette.quezada@My name is?Janette?Quezada and I am excited to announce will be working with you as the new Breakthrough Dean of Volunteers. During the school year, I serve as the College Bound Coordinator. I am a Fort Worth native. I graduated from Trimble Tech High School in 2011 and recently received my bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Texas Christian University.??During my sophomore year of college, I had the honor to work as a Breakthrough summer teacher. Therefore, I know the special program Breakthrough is and?I am excited to join Breakthrough family again. As the Dean of Volunteers, I am responsible for overseeing the TA program, clubs, special events, and all volunteers associated with the summer program. Dev’n Goodman, Dean of Facultydgoodttu@Education is my passion and I'm thankful every day for the experiences I have had because of teaching. After years of playing school, and even having the opportunity to be a teacher’s assistant in college I finally became an English teacher. I have taught EnglishI for 8th and 9th grade students along with being an athletics coach and Service Learning instructorMarcela Aguayo, Office Manager.marcela.aguayo@(817) 353-8540“Miss Marcy,” as the students call her, is a California native and proud mother of two beautiful children, Andi and Beto. Andi, her oldest, is currently a ninth-grader and a participant of Breakthrough. During the school year, Marcy works at Sagamore Hill Elementary as a paraprofessional and jack-of-all-trades. She is very excited to return for her third summer as the Office Manager at Breakthrough!Renee Pierce, Foundations RelationsRenee.pierce@ From her first day on the job in 2008, Renee has been a huge fan of the Breakthrough program. She is deeply passionate about its mission and the students it serves, both those learning and teaching. As the Breakthrough Foundation Relations Coordinator, her primary responsibility is pursuing grant funding for the Breakthrough program and select projects for Fort Worth Country Day. Renee is a seasoned fundraising representative with five years of experience in grant management and eight years prior to that in donor relationships and campaign management for annual giving.BT SHORTHANDThroughout the summer, you may hear staff and other teachers using shorthand terms. ?Each term has an important underlying meaning, and allows the staff to communicate in an efficient manner, and at times invite a bit of humor into a stressful situation. ?This document is your guide to that shorthand so that all members of our community know the meanings.Admin“Admin” is shorthand for administrator, which means any of the core members of the Breakthrough Leadership Team.Breakthrough-appropriate (or BT-approp)BT-approp ?(rhymes with pope, not pop) is a quick reminder to keep things on a professional level. ?Especially with students and teachers so close in age, it can be easy to forget that certain topics are not appropriate for middle schoolers. ?Dancing, music, jokes, and conversations all need to be maintained at a BT-approp level.Calm Is StrengthWe’ll learn about this one in a workshop during teacher training, but it’s a term many of you will likely remember throughout the summer. ?Both inside and outside the classroom, remaining calm in stressful or confrontational situations will serve you best. ?Even if you don’t feel calm--pretend you do, and calm will come!Manage UpDuring the summer, there are many things happening and many timelines. ?It will be inefficient (and detrimental to program quality) if staff has to chase any teacher around to make sure work is completed. ?You are professionals this summer, and we expect you to meet your responsibilities. ?We also need you to “Manage Up.”Here’s what it means to “Manage Up”:Know what matters to your manager at all times. ?Consider his/her goals, concerns, pressures, etc.... Do what you can to help your manager succeed in his/her job.Anticipate what your manager is going to want to see from you and when. ?Proactively communicate with your manager on task progress. ?Don’t wait to be asked.No surprises. ?Complete tasks early or on time. ?If you need an extension, request one beforehand. ?Ahead of time, let your manager know what you need from him or her to complete your task successfully.If you are confronted by a challenge, approach your manager with several options for overcoming it.Give feedback to your manager, both positive and constructive. ?We are all learning here too, and we want to do as well as we can.Here’s what we can gain by “Managing Up”:The confidence of your manager, who will be much more likely to give you more freedom and responsibility.Less stress personally and in your working relationships,Practice for a very important real-world skill,Breakthrough will operate at a very high level.MetaMeta is a bit of an abstract idea, but it refers to events, statements, and/or ideas that are self-referencing. ?For example, teacher training is designed to be taught in the way that we expect teachers to teach--that’s Meta. ?It can take a while to catch on to Meta sometimes, so don’t worry if it doesn’t come to you right away!Reach OutWe are a team of 25 teachers. ?With a group this size, it is natural that you will get more close to a number of people. ?While this is fine and natural, it is critical for our success this summer that cliques do not form. ?We need everyone to go out of your way to be inclusive of everyone. ?We have to deliberately make a decision to be a group of 25, not three or four separate cliques.We have done some things organizationally to head this off. ?For example, you’re working in committees, teams, clubs, departments, Your Zones, etc... You will need to interact professionally with everyone. ?But it is important that we all make sure to be one community. ?So invite others, go up to someone you don’t know very well and ask them how their day is going, ask questions about their classes, etc... Don’t get caught in a clique.Resource CheckWith 25 teachers all needing assistance, staff have a lot to deal with. ?Usually there is more than one way to find out an answer to your question. ?If staff are feeling overwhelmed when you?approach them, they might say “Resource Check” if there is another way you can find the information out. ?Before you approach staff, it helps if you do an internal “Resource Check” first.Two Questions for a Resource CheckWhat are all the ways I can find out the answer to my question?Which one is the most efficient for the program?JoeFancy Meal issuesJunior League and Champion’s DayBus-related questionsFWCD facilitiesNicoleIC IssuesFaculty Dynamic IssuesClass schedule issuesGeneral support if others are not availableRudiStudent issuesParent issuesInstructional CoachInstructional strategiesLesson plan supportClassroom managementResource needsDev’nFaculty dynamic issuesTeam issuesResource needsJanetteTA issuesClubsSpecial EventsAll volunteersOffice ManagerAttendance questionsAdministrative questionsOther teachersGeneral supportCommittee collaborationTeam collaborationHandbookPolicies & proceduresDetail questionsCommon formsStep UpWhen there is an issue that arises, we need everyone to take responsibility for it. ?We need to create a culture that promotes “stepping up” meaning that we don’t wait for someone else to address an issue, we step up and address it ourselves as needed. ?Don’t forget to compliment your colleagues for times when they step up!TCU REGULATIONSTCU regulations include, but are not limited to, the following in TCU buildings and on TCU property:- ??????Smoking is prohibited in all buildings.- ??????Attaching any object to any TCU premise by tape, nail, screw, or alteration of the premises in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission from Conference Services is prohibited.- ??????No signs are to be attached to the outside walls of any TCU facility without prior written permission.- ??????All visitors are expected to comply with TCU traffic regulations.- ??????Parking is allowed only in the white-lined spaces.- ??????There is no parking or driving on ANY non-paved area.- ??????All facility and residence hall rooms must be left in the condition found. Any damages or excessive clean-up will be billed after the event. No furniture may be moved out of the residence hall rooms or from lounge areas into individual rooms.- ??????TCU prohibits alcoholic beverages in all areas of the campus, without written permission.- ??????The consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in all hallways, stairways, elevators, lobbies, lounges, recreation areas, restrooms, and all other areas of residence halls.- ??????Kegs and any other containers larger than one gallon used for alcoholic beverages are not permitted anywhere on campus.- ??????The illegal possession, manufacture, distribution, use or sale of any quantity of any drug, narcotic, or any controlled substance or being illegally under the influence of any drug, narcotic, or any controlled substance is prohibited.- ??????Tampering with the fire system or with fire fighting equipment is a violation of the Fort Worth City Ordinance.- ??????EVERYONE MUST evacuate the building when an alarm is sounded. All violators are subject to persecution and fine ($400) by the University as well as city authorities.- ??????Possession, ignition or detonation of any explosive device, fireworks liquid, or object which is flammable or which would cause damage by fire or explosion to person or property is prohibited, this includes any hazardous materials, and any and all firearms.- ??????Candles and open flames may not be used in any building without permission from Conference Services.- Students may not visit the dorms. Under-18 guests may not spend the night without special permission from the Director.11328400Breakthrough Summer Calendar4000020000Breakthrough Summer Calendar-114300-11430000June 2016SundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday123456789101112131415161718191st Day of Breakthrough Classes20Fancy Boutique219th Graders: Mock Fancy Meal (7pm)22Fancy Meal23Half Day (for students)242526272829SPIRIT DAY!!30Half Day1105346583185Breakthrough Phone: (817) 302-3280020000Breakthrough Phone: (817) 302-3280267589038100Breakthrough Summer Calendar4000020000Breakthrough Summer Calendar-114300-11430000July 2016right5445760Breakthrough Phone: (817) 302-3280***Exam dates are subject to change020000Breakthrough Phone: (817) 302-3280***Exam dates are subject to changeSundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturdayNo School4567Family/Teacher Conferences(Half Day)8Family/Teacher Conferences91011All Saints or TVS Field Trip 12-1800860-459105High School/College Week!!00High School/College Week!!13 14Half Day15161718Champions’ Day 1920217th Grade Fun Day-8045451174758th/9th Grade Overnight008th/9th Grade OvernightHalf Day2223242526Literature & Writing Final Exams***27Math & Science Final Exams***28Last day of Breakthrough classesFull Day 29Celebration 2pm 3031August12345 6 ................
................

In order to avoid copyright disputes, this page is only a partial summary.

Google Online Preview   Download