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Category: Information Items

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A Universal Reading Screener is used to help students in grades 7-12 improve their literacy skills in a fun way and help determine where students are in their reading journey. Jordan School District has used a Universal Reading Screener since 2008, however the contract for our current reading screener expires soon.

Star Reading by Renaissance is the assessment we recommend as our new Universal Reading Screener.

We are providing a demo screener for students and their parents. The link below gives them access to the demo, along with instructions for logging in.

After using the demo screener, parents can provide input by emailing Brandee Bergum, Secondary Language Arts Consultant, at brandee.bergum@jordandistrict.org or by contacting their Board of Education member.

A contract for the Universal Reading Screener will be voted on at the Sept. 24 Board of Education meeting.

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Fall 2024 ML Support PD FlyerLanguage And Culture Services has an opportunity for educators to join us to learn strategies for teaching Multilingual Students. If you missed our summer SIOP workshop, then this is the professional development for you! Please use this link to register:

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Screencast IconOur YuJa contract is set to expire on Oct. 1, 2024.  District administration has chosen not to renew the contract, as there are many new options available to teachers and students to create screencast learning videos.  Here are some of the best options for creating a video:

  • Screencast by Google - This tool has recently been made FREE on any Chromebook device.  The videos save directly into Google Drive and you have unlimited access to create and store videos.  Unfortunately, you can only create ScreenCast videos on a Chromebook device, not using Google Chrome on a Mac or PC. Learn more about creating videos using Screencast.
  • Canva - One of underutilized tools from Canvas is a video creation tool.  You can use AI to help you create some elements of videos and use the Canva collections to add callouts, text, etc. to your projects. Check out a Canva video tutorial.
  • Loom - This tool allows you access to a pro educational account for creating videos.  Simple to use and edit your videos, loom is a great option for teachers using their Mac or PC.  Find out more about Loom.
  • Built in Tools on your Mac or PC - Both Mac and PC provide options for you to create screencast videos.  You can use QuickTime Pro or Command +Shift+ 5 to create a quick video as well.  These must be uploaded into Google Drive or Canvas to share with students. Similar options are available for the PC - here’s an article describing some of your options on the PC.

Please note you can still download any videos from YuJa you need for your classroom.  These must be downloaded by Oct. 1, 2024 to ensure you have access to your video content. Instructions on downloading videos can be found on the YuJa website. 

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2024 Flu Shot Clinic PosterFlu Shots Provided by CNS. Please bring your photo ID and insurance card. Spouses and dependents (6 months and older) are welcome. Don’t forget to wear a short sleeve shirt!

There will be a limited number of COVID vaccinations available.  If you would like to reserve one, please contact Insurance Services (801) 567-8146.

  • District Office, Room 100A - Sept. 18, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
  • Auxiliary Services Building, Room 105, Entrance A - Sept. 24, 3 to 6 p.m.

 

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ML Family Night FlyerLanguage & Culture Services wants to celebrate our 2024 WIDA graduates. Our students work hard and we want to celebrate their linguistic greatness in reaching level 4.2 overall and 3.5 on the speaking section in WIDA. Please come out and celebrate with your students and their families. Each feeder system has a special date.

  • Sept. 23, Mountain Ridge High, 7 p.m.
  • Oct. 9, Bingham High, 7 p.m.
  • Oct. 30, Herriman High, 7 p.m.
  • Nov.7, West Jordan High, 7 p.m.
  • Nov. 21, Copper Hills High, 7 p.m.
  • Dec. 2, Riverton High, 7 p.m.

You can access your individual feeder system flyer using this link:

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Fall Recess Critical Day Annual/Personal Leave Lottery Request
If you are a contracted employee and need to take Annual/Personal Leave on a Critical Day before or after Fall Recess for any reason not listed in policy DP335NEG or DP335B, you must submit a request as follows:

How to Request
During the window, the employee must send the request through email. Please include your name, school, position, and the date you are requesting the leave. Requests left on voicemail or over the phone will NOT be accepted.

The employee will receive an email confirmation within two working days after submitting the request. If the employee does not receive a confirmation email, then Human Resources has NOT received your request and your leave will not be approved

School Holiday Date of Holiday Critical Days Window
Fall Recess
Licensed		 Oct. 21-25, 2024 Oct. 18 and 29, 2024 Sept. 7 – Sept. 17, 2024
Fall Recess
ESP		 Oct. 24-25, 2024 Oct. 18 and 29, 2024 Sept. 10 – Sept. 20, 2024
  • 2024-25 Licensed Annual/Personal Leave Taken on a Critical Day
  • 2024-25 ESP Annual/Personal Leave Taken on a Critical Day

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Safe EmailSafer Email inbox coming your way
Information Systems is excited to announce that on Sept. 12, we'll be implementing a new email security system to enhance your online safety. This upgrade will reduce the amount of spam and scams you receive. As we fine-tune the system, some emails will have "SPAM?" in the subject line.

If you're expecting an email that hasn't arrived, please don't hesitate to contact the Information Systems help desk at 801-567-8737. We're committed to providing you with the best possible email experience.

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Teaching & Learning 32 Hour FlyerTeaching and Learning (T&L) is here to help you with your 32 hours of educator-directed learning.  You'll find lots of great classes, workshops, and conferences that can provide you with the learning and hours you'll need to meet the 32-hour stipend requirement.

32 Hour Educator-Directed Paid Professional Hours - 2024
Are you looking for professional learning opportunities to fulfill the 32 hours Educator-Directed Paid Professional Hours PLAN? Teaching & Learning Can Help. Professional hours are due Sept. 30.

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T&L Sept 2024 NewsletterCheck out the links below for the latest updates from Teaching & Learning for September.  Learn Tips and Tricks, Sign Up for Upcoming PD, and Learn about Important Updates from the T & L team.

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Aug. 2024 Incidental Learning NewsletterThe JSD Teachers for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing Team has created a monthly newsletter.  The full newsletter for this month can be found at the link below. Stories include:

Using Amplification in Your Classroom - It isn’t about how loud your voice carries, it is about the student’s ability to process the frequency of your voice. When you notice a DHH student is having trouble focusing on your instruction, take a moment to make sure you are connected and that the system is working. Watch Tips for Working with Deaf & Hard of Hearing Students below to get a better idea of how the system works for a DHH child. Your instruction is important, please make sure it is accessible.

Un-amplified Comments - Allow the speaker to use the mic if possible. Identify who is speaking so the DHH student can face them. Repeat the comment or question again using the amplification system.

Closed Captioning - Just a friendly reminder to make sure all videos are accessible by turning on closed captioning or subtitles.

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September has been designated by the Utah State Legislature as American Founders Month in HB 179.  All public schools are asked to do something to honor the American Founding Fathers and the Constitution.  Sept. 17 is designated by Congress as Constitution Day.

Elementary Teachers have access to resources that fit their social studies standards.  All 5th and 6th grade students will receive a “Why I Love America” pamphlet that teachers can use as a resource.  One of the lessons on the resource page for 5th and 6th grade teachers is a lesson specifically about the pamphlet.

Secondary social studies also have lessons and activities that they can do during the month.  The resources for American Founders Month can be found at socialstudies.jordandistrict.org/american-founders-month/.

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Ballet West Performances FlyerBallet West is again providing free presentations of the following ballets in the Capitol Theater:

  • Pictures At An Exhibition (Grades 4-12)
  • The Nutcracker (Grades 1-12)
  • Cinderella (Grades 2-12)
  • Fairy Tale Theater: Alladin (Grades 1-12)
  • The Rite of Spring (Grades 5-12)
  • Works From Within (Grades 5-12)

Each program begins with an educational introduction and is followed by a portion of the repertoire currently being performed for the general public.

Further information may be found at Ballet West Student In-Theatre Performances and in the link below.

Transportation fees and bus scheduling are to be taken care of by individual schools. Neither Ballet West nor the Teaching and Learning Department will cover transportation costs.

If any of your teachers are interested in having their classes attend any of the performances, please have them contact Sydney Hamblin at sydney.hamblin@jordandistrict.org or 801-567-8296. Seating is limited and performance slots will be filled on a first come first serve basis.

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Money Saving Ideas FlyerHow can you easily save money for yourself and our health plan?
There are so many ways that we can all be good consumers and keep our overall plan costs down. In the long run, this will save you money and avoid higher premium costs in the future.

  • Take advantage of preventive visits on both your medical and dental plans. If issues are caught early, there is an increased chance of a positive outcome and lower costs for both you and our health plan.
  • Always ask for generic drugs.
  • Talk to your pharmacist and ask if there is a lower cost options available that they would recommend.
  • If you need the name brand prescription, take advantage of CRX International. (Web ID: JORDANSD)
  • Take advantage of mail order or 90 day fill at Walgreens.
  • If you are on a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker such as Humira, ask your pharmacist about the biosimilars and if they are right for you.
  • Use the cash back program with PEHP. Opt to get care at a clinic instead of a hospital and get cash back. Please see the tutorial on the Insurance website.
  • “Know Before You Go” – Take a few simple steps beforehand to get the right care at the best value to avoid unnecessary large bills.
  • The “Latest and Greatest” drug on the market doesn’t mean it is right for you. These drugs are usually very expensive and have not proven there are additional benefits over the drugs that have been out there for years. Talk to both your physician and pharmacist for the lowest, most effective option for you.
  • Move your body! Regular physical activity, even in low doses, is proven to reduce overall costs, reduce stress, increase happiness and overall wellbeing.

If you have found other ways to save money, please let Insurance Services know and we will feature it in a future JEM.

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Group Member Portal Overview FlyerThere have been issues with getting our new Renaissance dental physical cards mailed to you prior to Sept. 1.  You are now enrolled in their system and can access your member information via their member portal.

Please use this information to create an account and download your card if you need it prior to receiving it in the mail.  You can also contact Insurance Services if you need assistance 801-567-8046.  Thank you.

Renaissance Member Online Portals
MyRenBenefitsManager: For employees who are part of an employer-sponsored plan, MyRenBenefitsManager makes it easy to view and manage your benefits information.

Myrenbenefitsmanager Features:

  • Review Coverage: View your profile, review coverage and access certificate information.
  • Real-Time Benefit Information: See your coverage levels, deductible information, and remaining annual maximum amount.
  • Claims: View claims transactions and payments. Submit life and disability claims with access to claims status updates, including claim examiner notes.
  • ID Cards: View, download and print your ID card.
  • Provider Search: Access to our provider search tool to find the right provider in your area.

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Sept. 2024 Important Payroll Info FlyerPayroll Due: 9/4
View Your Paycheck: 9/21
Payday: 9/25

Labor Day Critical Days: 8/30 & 9/3
As per DP335(B) and DP335 NEG: Employees may be docked for using annual leave on a Critical Day unless the leave reason is listed as an exception in policy. If applicable, the reason & the policy exception must be written in the time off description box. View the Critical Days FAQ here

Secondary Parent Teacher Conferences: 9/25 & 9/26
As per DP335(B) and DP335 NEG: Annual/Personal leave shall not be used during Parent Teacher Conferences. If Parent Teacher Conference is missed, a leave day (sick or No Pay) should be entered on the Comp Day 9/27

Elementary Professional Development Day: 9/27 - No Students

Sub Payroll Deadlines

  • Pay Period: 8/20-8/30
    Due: 9/3
    Payday: 9/10
  • Pay Period: 9/3-9/13
    Due: 9/13
    Payday: 9/25

SCHOOLS: Please ensure subs are verified weekly

True Time Deadlines
Pay Period: 8/5-9/1
EMPLOYEES: Please submit your time sheets at the end of each week
APPROVERS: Please approve time sheets weekly for accuracy

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Smart Goals
As educators write goals, remind them to be SMART. View a video about SMART goals by viewing the video below and by reviewing the linked flyer. Additional resources may be found at jes.jordandistrict.org.

Sept. 2024 Evaluation NewsletterInterim Requirements

  • Self-assessment
  • 3 Goals Connected to
    • UETS
    • Previous evaluation
    • Student growth with data & Stakeholder input Administrator approval

Smart Goals

  1. Specific: Clear and precise goals that outline exactly what is to be achieved. By the end of the semester, students will increase their ability to use technology tools for math by 50%.
  2. Measurable: Goals that include criteria to track progress and determine when they are accomplished. Students will demonstrate competency of usage of technology through formative and summative assessments.
  3. Achievable: Realistic goals that can be accomplished within the given resources and constraints. Students will be provided with targeted instruction and opportunities to practice with real-life problem solving.
  4. Realistic: Goals that align with objectives and content and are significant to the individual's or organization's success. Enhancing technology tools in math is crucial for overall academic success in future opportunities for education and work.
  5. Timely: Goals with a defined deadline to create a sense of urgency and timeline for completion. The goal will be achieved by the end of the 5. current semester.

Due Date
October 31, 2024 Beginning of the Year interims are due DUE DATE Evaluation

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LCS Fall Family Fair 2024 FlyerLanguage and Culture Services is excited for the annual Fall Family Fair on Thursday, Sept. 5 from 4 - 7 p.m. at the the Viridian Event Center. All Jordan District students and their families are invited to become familiar with the District and the Community.

Special music guests, Superintendents of Rock. Our very own Superintendent Anthony Godfrey is a member of the band. Come out with your family, the food trucks, win prizes, and get to know the school community.

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EyeMed FlyerYou should be receiving your new EyeMed ID cards any day now.  Please note that they are in a plain white envelope so please keep your eyes out.

Your ID card is not required but we know this may bring piece of mind.  You are able to access your member information on the Member Web or the EyeMed Members App.  This information is also available on the Insurance Services website.

The instructions on how to access your account can be found below.

Eye Med - How to Enjoy Your Own "Eye Site"
Your vision plan is like a friendly smile - it doesn't do any good if it's hidden away. Member Web at eyemed.com is here, there and everywhere. It's your vision plan control center. A place to manage the details of every visit and every claim. Instantly. Easily. Smile-ly.

Start managing your benefits in a few easy steps:

  1. Visit eyemed.com and click on Member Login.
  2. If you're a new user, click on Create an Account.
  3. Register using your member ID or the last four digits of your social security number (You'll get an email asking to confirm your account.).*
  4. Finish setting up your new account with your email address
    and a password (To keep it secure, we list some password "musts.").
  5. Come back anytime to change your password, email address and billing preferences (It's all under Manage Profiles.).

Log in 24/7 to:

  • View your benefit details
  • Confirm eligibility
  • Check claim status
  • Print replacement ID cards
  • Locate a provider
  • Schedule an appointment online**
  • View health and wellness information
  • Get special offers

See the good stuff
Register on eyemed.com or grab the member app (App Store or Google Play) now.

* Depends on how your benefit administrator entered you into the system.
** Most, but not all, network providers offer this.

This information is available broadly and is not plan or state specific. Offers are not valid in the state of Texas.

Please contact Insurance Services if you have any questions at 801-567-8146 or insurance@jordandistrict.org

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All Licensed and ESP Employees

  • Aug. 21 - Aug. 27 Elementary Schools
  • Aug. 20 - Aug. 26 Secondary Schools
  • Aug. 20 - Aug. 26 District Offices & Auxiliary Services

Per District policy, annual or personal leave days may not be used during the first five days of school, unless the leave reason is listed in policy as an exception. If any of the exceptions do apply, you must provide both the leave reason and the policy exception in the time off description. If these exceptions are not applicable, your annual or personal leave day will be changed to a no-pay day as per policy.

7. Annual leave shall not be taken during the first five (5) days that students are in school except under the following conditions:

  1. To attend the wedding of a near relative including child, father, mother, brother, sister, grandchild, grandparents or same to one’s spouse or any other person who is a member of the same household as the employee.
  2. To attend to personal or business matters which require the employee’s attendance and scheduling is beyond the employee’s control.
  3. First year employees who notify their supervisor in writing that they are ill.

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Elementary Administrators and Teachers,
We previously sent instructions and a tutorial on how to access the new Wit and Wisdom 5th Grade Module 1 and Student Handouts. 

In order to streamline the use of these materials, the Teaching and Learning Department will be printing handouts for lessons 13-35 in Module 1 for use with all 5th grade students. Schools can use the published workbooks that they should have received, for the first 12 lessons of Module 1. 

Module 0 will take approximately one week. The first 12 lessons of Module 1 should take approximately 3 weeks. This schedule should allow 4 weeks to get the materials printed and delivered to schools.

Should you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to 

Thank you for your continued dedication and hard work.