Student Recognition Advisory Committee:

Work to Date

Missoula County Public SchoolsDecember 2012

Heather Davis Schmidt, Executive Regional DirectorSara DeGrandpre, Teacher, Big Sky High School

Gisele Forrest, Native American Community Specialist, Indian Education Department

Vanessa Kolberg, Parent, Big Sky High SchoolScott Sager, Parent, Sentinel High School

Christina Stevens, Principal, Meadow Hill Middle SchoolDyAnna Wilson, Native American Specialist , Indian Education Department

Overview Welcome and Introductions (Heather) Foundational Belief Statements (Scott) Brief overview of recognition opportunities currently in place

(Vanessa) Commencement ceremony (Chris) Commencement program template (Sarah) Medallions criteria and selection process (Vanessa

and Sarah) Next Steps (Gisele) Discussion (Heather)

Foundational belief statements

We believe student recognition: Is achieved through the hard work and effort of the recipient.

Will uplift and inspire students.

Builds confidence and facilitates student success.

Celebrates students’ achievements in all areas.

Must be purposeful, meaningful, and include voices from students, parents, community, and staff.

Opportunities must be broad in scope, consistent across the district, and criteria used for selection must be clear and transparent.

Can be communicated through a variety of informal and formal activities.

Brief overview of recognition opportunities currently in place

Themes: Verbal Emails and calls to parents Candy/treats/stickers Special lunches with teacher or

principal School bucks or tickets for things Assemblies Promotion, commencement Most inspiring student, district-wide

Commencement Ceremony

Backwards design model Began with culminating event See handout Consider adding:

• Slideshow for families to view while waiting Student request for shorter speeches

Commencement Program Template

See handout

Next Steps Refine belief statements Firm up details for commencement

ceremony and program template Develop guidelines for cultural decorations

of caps and gowns Consider adding student statement to

graduation program (e.g., what/who connected me most to school and inspired me to graduate)

Present to Teaching & Learning, January 7th

Discussion Questions? Comments