Tuesday Afternoon at Atlantic Middle School

My Tuesday afternoon in Atlantic led me to the Atlantic Middle School. The first stop was in the 8th grade Science classroom of Mrs. Amber Moore. Mrs. Moore (on the left in the photo) had half of her students in teams of 3 working in the lab on sound waves while the other half worked with their groups reading and outlining a lesson in a text book.



Students worked responsibly in a most respectful manner! They knew what was expected, shared in responsibilities and kept on task. When I walked from group to group they shared results and really did know what they were talking about! Great work, Mrs. Moore and great work, students!

My hostess for the afternoon at Atlantic Middle School was Atlantic EA Chief Negotiator and English/Language Arts teacher, JoAnn Runyan (on the left in pink). Following the classroom visit to the 8th grade Science, the entire 8th grade team met for their daily 8th Grade Team Meeting. Also pictured with JoAnn (at left in background) is 8th grade Science teacher Amber Moore.


Deb Burton (at right) is an 8th grade Reading teacher. The team meeting began with a list of issues emailed to staff for their discussion groups. As the list and discussion seemed to be complete, others on the team brought forward issues that were a concern in their classroom--to see if others were having the same concerns.

Dick McLaren, 8th grade Special Education teacher (seated at left) added to the discussion as the meeting moved forward. This group of dedicated professionals realize how valuable this time built into their schedule for the team to meet is in providing a great public school for their students.

Following the 8th Grade Team Meeting, Chief Negotiator Runyan took me for a building tour, stopping along the way to introduce me to her colleagues that have been long-time association members. In addition, we dropped in briefly to the district's administrative meeting to say "hello" to the Superintendent of Schools and the building principals for the High School, Middle School and Elementary building.

Thanks so much Atlantic EA for inviting me to visit and see the amazing things you do every day for Iowa's students. We are lucky to have you as leaders on Team ISEA!