From Drew’s Athletic Director
Shoutouts
- To the students that participated in the APS Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl!
- Senior Academy HRRB Team will compete in the Regional Competition representing APS in February.. DATE TBA!
- Congratulate the following Senior Academy students !
- Myah Crowell
- Chanel Harris
- Lindsey Smith
- Kimela Fongeh
- Miles Selles
- Cheyenne George
- Congratulate the following Senior Academy students !
- Senior Academy HRRB Team will compete in the Regional Competition representing APS in February.. DATE TBA!
- To our boys Varsity basketball team for remaining undefeated after a hard fought victory this weekend!
- To Christian Aycock for his progression with his STEAM Portfolio!
- TIP FOR STUDENTS: Make sure your homepage is engaging with interesting pictures and a compelling story–your story! This the first thing people see when they go to your page and it needs to capture their attention. Christian does this with amazing pictures and we learn a lot about Christian via his pictures and written summary. Finally, just make sure everything on the page is complete–sections that are unfinished also say something about you!
- To Senior Academy students Nethan Nagendran and Miles Selles for their participation in Drew’s Got Talent!
- To Leslie, Kristina, and Amani for their willingness and commitment to Targeted Student Intervention and working with our students on campus on Wednesday!
- To Charlie for his communication and guidance to help students complete their coursework from 1st semester!
- To all of our staff members that continue to make connections with our students and parents in meaningful ways!
STEAM Highlight of the Week
Our campus has been certified as a STEAM School twice so far… The Elementary Academy earned this recognition in 2017 and the Junior Academy earned the recognition in 2018 from the Georgia Department of Education.
This important designation was created to recognize institutions committed to providing high-quality educational opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math. The certifications confirm Drew’s position as a statewide leader in innovative education. Of course, the marathon continues- Drew’s Senior Academy is also in the process of earning this certification next!
We began pre-COVID and with new systems in place the process has resumed. This section will highlight student work which will be submitted for STEAM CERTIFICATION. Please note, ALL SENIOR ACADEMY students will have a portfolio displayed for this certification, for additional support or to work with the STEAM on this portfolio please reach out to ….
Portfolios Mission:
Students will have a collection of their work and thoughts that will remain in their hands throughout their life. Portfolios can be used for college entrance applications, job applications, and scholarship applications.
Portfolio Tip for the Week:
Make sure your homepage is engaging with interesting pictures and a compelling story–your story! This the first thing people see when they go to your page and it needs to capture their attention. Christian does this with amazing pictures and we learn a lot about Christian via his pictures and written summary. Finally, just make sure everything on the page is complete–sections that are unfinished also say something about you!
See the link above for an example of a well structured portfolio
Drew Reopening Update
Dear Drew Parents/Guardians:
| I hope this message finds you and your family well. We just experienced many monumental firsts in our nation’s history. The groundbreaking events of the last week represent remarkable possibilities for our Drew students to have witnessed first hand and also strive to achieve! As we move forward, I wanted to take a moment to update you on Drew’s plans as it relates to our instructional learning model. We are continuously monitoring public data regarding the level of spread for COVID–19. Locally, as you are likely aware, recent data show a record surge in reported new COVID-19 cases and indicate that local hospitals are bracing for or are already at capacity. Based on this information, Drew Charter School will currently remain under a virtual instructional model for students. (At this time, the only exception to remaining fully virtual will be the expansion of targeted in-person interventions for our most vulnerable students.) The safety, health and wellbeing of our students, staff and families remain at the forefront of our decisions. With this in mind, in order for Drew to consider a shift from a virtual instructional model, we would want to see, as our primary decision-making criterion, a three-week downward trend of new COVID-19 cases reported in Fulton and DeKalb counties, as measured by the 7-day moving average. At the same time, as this pandemic rapidly changes and new information unfolds, we will also consider other relevant criteria in ultimately making any decisions. Be assured that should we make a decision to transition to a hybrid instructional model (with some form of in-person learning), families will receive at least three (3) weeks advance notice of start dates for in-person student learning options. The three-week advance notice window is intended to allow staff time to return to campus and prepare for students and to accommodate the adjustments families may need to make in their personal lives. We will continue monitoring public health data and will provide another update regarding our reopening/transition plans by February 15th. As our community deals daily with the impact of COVID-19, we wanted to also remind you of the resources available to your family. We are assessing the mental, physical and emotional needs of our Drew learning community. To better determine the areas of greatest need and how Drew can help, we are asking ANY family experiencing need to complete this survey. The survey is confidential and will only be shared with our social worker and student support team. We stand ready to support your family, especially at this time. Thank you for your ongoing flexibility and for keeping your student(s) motivated to learn during these challenging times. Please stay safe, stay well, and remain hopeful! I’ll be in touch soon. For the Love of Drew, Peter McKnight Head of School |
E-Learning Notices
Senior Academy Virtual Learning Guide
Dear Drew Community,
As we plan to begin the this semester in a virtual format, we will resume instruction in a way that maintains our commitment to wellness and quality instruction. Therefore Wellness Wednesdays will reflect a combination of targeted virtual instructional time and consistent wellness programming and support.
In a “blended learning model” each student will have an opportunity to work with a teacher or independently. Each student will either have a mandatory content review/check for understanding/assessment/pre-teaching or will be meeting directly with a teacher during that time for testing/small group support. Support will be available for students by content on alternating weeks.
9:00 – 9:45 Math Review/Support/Assessment (alternating weeks with SS)
10:00 – 10:45 ELA Review/Support/Assessment (alternating weeks with Science)
Teachers will be available to facilitate instruction and/or answer questions during the aforementioned specified 45-minute period.
Please remember that Drew’s counseling team is always available to assist you and your student. Please feel free to reach out directly as needed. Social emotional counselor contact information is listed below:
- Dean of CCR: rachel.weaver@drewcharterschool.org
- 9th and 11th- rob.richardson@drewcharterschool.org
- 10th and 12th: tara.davis@drewcharterschool.org
~K. Myers
For more details on virtual instruction please click the link below:
- In this document you will find FAQs and Answers on the structure of virtual learning and resources to assist you and the student while in a e-learning environment
- SENIOR ACADEMY VIRTUAL PARENT GUIDE
- Click Here for the following:
- STUDENT GUIDELINES
- Virtual Schedule [Updated 10/26/2020]
- Zoom Best Practices- Click Here
- STUDENT GUIDELINES
- Attendance Notice to Drew Families during Virtual Learning
- Click Here for the following:
- SENIOR ACADEMY VIRTUAL PARENT GUIDE
Google Classroom Training for Families
- The links below will show you various settings and information for navigating Google Classroom
Guardian Announcements from Drew
Updates from Teachers!
- Teachers at each grade level have compiled a few general notes for you in regards to updates related to their classes.
- The link holds the updates for each grade level and it is organized by grade level, 9th-12th.
Please feel free to reach out to your grade level counselor should you have general questions about your student and/or need to connect for support.
- Rob Richardson (9th & 11th, rob.richardson@drewcharterschool.org)
- Tara Davis (10th & 12th, tara.davis@drewcharterschool.org)
If you missed the information from the last Principal’s Coffee please see the slideshow below:
Typically, high school is the time when young Eagles are maturing and are prepared to fly on their own. Encourage this independent practice. They will still need the watchful eye to guide them in their development and learning. Please do so during breaks and refrain from interrupting live instruction for the benefit of the students and teachers. The slideshow will include some additional ways you can support your learner in the virtual environment.
- – Slideshow Presentation Here
The next meeting will be on
WEDNESDAY [01/27]
**CORRECTION AS OF 01/13/2021, adjustment for inaguration**
Announcements from
ATLANTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
The Parent C.A.F.E. is hosted by APS
The Parent C.A.F.E is designed for
Guardians of students with disabilities
General Activity Updates
hOSTED ON Smore, Click the Link above
Message from JA/SA Media Center Specialist
Greetings,
Please view The Eagle’s Nest Media Newsletter for upcoming events and online resources for literacy/researching.
- Social Emotional Learning Resources
- Galileo (password: lever)
- Reading Counts/Beanstack (Student ID num/Drewcharter3)
- EPIC Digital books ( Mrs. Ricks class code dvc1703)
- Check out the Top Readers for the Month
- Media Services Bitmoji classroom code – 7iy2jsh
| We understand and recognize that this is a difficult time for parents and students. The level of uncertainty is troubling and at times can feel overwhelming. I encourage you to contact our counselors if you or your student need support. You can also receive support via a free, confidential Crisis Text Line, with trained Crisis Counselors, by texting SHARE to 741741. (This is a national resource that is available 24/7). |
Drew Opportunity Fund
While COVID-19 put a wrinkle in our plans to sell a special, 18-month celebration calendar in honor of Drew’s 20th birthday, we’ve recently received several inquiries indicating that there is still interest!
The school holidays/breaks indicated in the calendar may no longer be correct, but the artwork provided by students and staff is still spot-on. The perfect addition to brighten up anyone’s home or office!
Calendars can be purchased here for $10 and all proceeds will benefit the Drew Opportunity Fund.
- Purchased calendars can be picked up every Monday from 2 – 4:30 p.m. at the Elementary Academy.
- Full Link if needed: https://app.etapestry.com/cart/DrewCharterSchoolInc/default/index.php
- BUY HERE
Mark your calendar to give Drew a “high five” on #GivingTuesday, December 1, to raise funds and awareness for the Drew Opportunity Fund.
HOW? IT’S EASY!
- Make a one-time or monthly donation of $5.
- Encourage 5 friends or family members to make a gift.
- Post a photo of yourself, or your student(s), holding a sign listing 5 reasons why you support Drew. Be sure to tag us!
When you give Drew a high five you give a hand up to our school community. Your support allows us to meet the ever-changing needs of our students, teachers, and families. Let’s keep up the great work. #WeAreDrew
The Drew Opportunity Fund is currently assisting families with varying needs during this difficult time. If you, or a Drew family you know, could use some assistance please fill out the Family Support Assessment: https://forms.gle/RT9m1BRWLomLinSr5.
This form is confidential and the responses will only be shared with our social worker and student support teams. Drew is here for you. If you need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out. #WeAreDrew
CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO THE DREW OPPORTUNITY FUND
Donations are tax-deductible and donors will be listed on the Drew website. Please continue to support the Opportunity Fund–we are making a difference. Make a secure, online donation here.
Intent to Play [In Relation to All Sports]
Uniform Needs
Calendar
Week of 01/25- 01/31
Monday
01/25
| 2:00 – 5:30 | [Please note the time change] Nutrition pick up – Location: Lower campus [Drew Elementary Campus] |
| Counseling Resources, see information below: Dean of CCR: rachel.weaver@drewcharterschool.org 9th and 11th- rob.richardson@drewcharterschool.org 10th and 12th: tara.davis@drewcharterschool.org Media Center Resources, see information below: Google Classroom Code – 7iy2jsh [Students only have access] Maker Space Activities : Checkout the STEAM Initiatives/Opportunities, visit the calendar on their page by following this link –> bit.ly/DrewMAKE |
- Monday Schedule –
- 8:30-9:40 1st period
- 9:50-11:00 2nd period
- 11:05-11:35 Lunch
- 11:40-12:50 Break and/or small groups
- 12th Community Forum [11am-12pm]
- 1:00-2:10 3rd period
- 2:20-3:30 4th period
Tuesday
01/26
| Counseling Resources, see information below: Dean of CCR: rachel.weaver@drewcharterschool.org 9th and 11th- rob.richardson@drewcharterschool.org 10th and 12th: tara.davis@drewcharterschool.org Media Center Resources, see information below: Google Classroom Code – 7iy2jsh [Students only have access] Maker Space Activities : Checkout the STEAM Initiatives/Opportunities, visit the calendar on their page by following this link –> bit.ly/DrewMAKE |
- Tuesday Schedule –
- 8:30-9:40 1st period
- 9:50-11:00 2nd period
- 11:05-11:35 Lunch
- 11:40-12:50 Break and/or small groups
- 9th Community Forum [11am-12pm]
- 11th Community Forum [11am-12pm]
- 1:00-2:10 3rd period
- 2:20-3:30 4th period
Wednesday
01/27
| Counseling Resources, see information below: Dean of CCR: rachel.weaver@drewcharterschool.org 9th and 11th- rob.richardson@drewcharterschool.org 10th and 12th: tara.davis@drewcharterschool.org Media Center Resources, see information below: Google Classroom Code – 7iy2jsh [Students only have access] Maker Space Activities : Checkout the STEAM Initiatives/Opportunities, visit the calendar on their page by following this link –> bit.ly/DrewMAKE |
| Monthly Principal’s Coffee [COMING SOON ON 01/27/2021] |
- Wednesday Schedule-
- Family ID Extension – Closes
- PSAT VIRTUAL ONLINE Grades 8-10 and 11th Grade Opt In
- 9:00 Social Studies Review/Support/Assessment (next week will be Math)
- 10:00 Science Review/Support/Assessment (next week will be ELA)
- 11:00
- Clubs
- Students should have received invites/Zoom links from their club sponsors.
- Clubs
- 12:00
- Monthly Principal’s Coffee [12PM]
- 1:00 – 3:00
- Office Hours/ Planning
- Small Groups
- 1:1 Support
- Planning Time
Reminder
days
hours minutes seconds
until
Principal’s Coffee
Monthly Principal’s Coffee Zoom Link
Zoom Link here
Thursday
01/28
| Counseling Resources, see information below: Dean of CCR: rachel.weaver@drewcharterschool.org 9th and 11th- rob.richardson@drewcharterschool.org 10th and 12th: tara.davis@drewcharterschool.org Media Center Resources, see information below: Google Classroom Code – 7iy2jsh [Students only have access] Maker Space Activities : Checkout the STEAM Initiatives/Opportunities, visit the calendar on their page by following this link –> bit.ly/DrewMAKE |
- Thursday Schedule-
- 8:30-9:40 1st period
- 9:50-11:00 2nd period
- 11:05-11:35 Lunch
- 11:40-12:50 Break and/or small groups
- 10th Community Forum [11am-12pm]
- 1:00-2:10 3rd period
- 2:20-3:30 4th period
- 5:30 Varsity Soccer Interest Meeting
Friday
01/29
| Counseling Resources, see information below: Dean of CCR: rachel.weaver@drewcharterschool.org 9th and 11th- rob.richardson@drewcharterschool.org 10th and 12th: tara.davis@drewcharterschool.org Media Center Resources, see information below: Google Classroom Code – 7iy2jsh [Students only have access] Maker Space Activities : Checkout the STEAM Initiatives/Opportunities, visit the calendar on their page by following this link –> bit.ly/DrewMAKE |
- Friday Schedule-
- 8:30-9:40 1st period
- 9:50-11:00 2nd period
- 11:05-11:35 Lunch
- 11:40-12:50 Break and/or small groups
- 1:00-2:10 3rd period
- 2:20-3:30 4th period
01/30| Saturday
- N/A
- Please note access to the school building will NOT be available. Security have been advised to not allow access to outsiders until further notice [inclusive of staff].
01/31| Sunday
- N/A
- Please note access to the school building will NOT be available. Security have been advised to not allow access to outsiders until further notice [inclusive of staff].
Upcoming Events:
- Week of 02/01 – 02/08 – Black History Month
- [02/01-02/02] – Charles R. Drew Day
- 02/05- Grades Available
- Week of 2/08 – 2/14 – Black History Month
- 02/10- @11am Celebrating Black Women & Unsung Heroes Talk with Dr. Tiyi Morris [Zoom Instructions]
- Week of 2/15 – 2/21 – Black History Month
- 02/15
- PD Day- [No School for Students]
- 02/16
- 9th Community Forum [11am-12pm]
- 11th Community Forum [11am-12pm]
- 02/17- @1pm Black Lives Matter: Then, Now and Forever [Zoom Instructions]
- 02/18
- 10th Community Forum [11am-12pm]
- 02/19
- 12th Community Forum [11am-12pm]
- 02/15
- TBD – TENTATIVE HYBRID REOPEN DATE
Check this out!
The Decatur Maker Space is building desks for students – nothing fancy (see photo) but very functional. Here is a link to the article. https://decaturmakers.org/building-free-desks-youth/
- They will be making two kinds, a folding desk and a non-folding desk. If you know of a student who needs a desk to learn from home, please pass this link along.
- Complete the application link for one here –> https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd_qTEVn_DYByEN_UkVf10ffymS5p2yJtjlzI09VcKDlmGFaw/viewform
THIS IS NOT SPONSORED BY DREW AND WE DON’T HAVE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THIS PROCESS.
Household Resources
Wifi and Internet Resources
Please see the Xfinity flyer above and information to internet access at a deep discount with Comcast–> CLICK HERE .
PTA UPDATES
The PTA Needs YOU!
This year, more than ever, Drew teachers and families need our support!
What do the PTA dues and fundraising efforts pay for (especially during the 2020-21 school year)?
- Teacher Appreciation Gifts
- Donations to The Opportunity Fund – which supports Drew families
- Teacher and Classroom Grants – for projects enhancing student learning
- Some past examples include:
- Leveled library with cart to be shared across a single grade level
- Class set of guitars
- iPads/Chromebooks for use within a specific classroom
- Beekeeping materials and bees
- Drones for a robotics club
- Materials and choreography for a choral performance
- This support for our students, teachers and families would not be possible without your membership!
Join or renew today! www.drewcharterschoolpta.com
Other Concerns
Shop and Support Drew at the same time!
Shop online for anything… and 15% of your purchase goes to the Drew Charter PTA.
Includes FREE direct shipping, so it makes a great gift for loved
ones across the country!
Support the Drew PTA at Amazon Smile:
https://smile.amazon.com/ch/58-2577634
Order through Amazon Smile link, and Amazon will make a donation to the Drew PTA.
Uniform Concerns!
Portal for Paying for Nutrition/Lunch Fees
Portal for Paying for Drew Events, Dues, Field Trips, etc..
Update for Students:
Senior Academy Blog 