Big Idea #1 - Teaching Black History All Year, Not Just in February
In Montana, we are pros at implementing a culturally responsive curriculum integrated throughout our yearly instructional plan. We know that curricula that truly honors our shared history and unique, diverse American cultural identity benefits our students and our communities. When integrating resources and lesson plans for Black History Month this year, consider the article Teaching Black History in Culturally Responsive Ways, which explores the premise that “Black history is American history, and it should be taught throughout the year across the curriculum—not confined to a single month.” We can also learn from the Center for Racial Justice in Education cautions us “Unless Black history is taught throughout the year, it perpetuates an “othering” of Black Lives and Black students, and is also a manifestation of anti-blackness.” The Center for Racial Justice in Education has compiled a veritable gold mine of resources and lesson plans for Black History Month that include: How Do We Celebrate Black History Month? What Can We Do in Our Classrooms? Do We Need Black History Month? and more.
Big Idea #2 - Professional Learning Needs Survey
The Office of Public Instruction (OPI) is conducting a survey about the various professional development opportunities offered by the OPI. Please visit the 2021-2022 OPI Professional Learning Needs Survey to learn more about this feedback opportunity. Both public and private schools are encouraged to participate in the survey. The survey is open until February 26, 2021.
SPRINT CHALLENGE: March 1, 2021 – March 31, 2021
See your students grow and thrive in the CoderZ League Sprint Challenge. Students will compete in one of three divisions, from Novice to Pro, and will enjoy the fun of working in teams, whether together in class or from home. Students in grades 4 to 12 will solve virtual robotics challenges in a schoolwide competition or against other teams in the state, sharpening their skills in computational thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Montana Aerospace Scholars Program Seeks High School Sophomores
In collaboration with NASA, Museum of Flight, and the University of Washington, registration for the Montana Aerospace Scholars program is now open! Apply for this free dual-phase program that focuses on Earth & Space Science. This experience exposes students to the opportunity to work face-to-face with professional engineers, NASA scientists, university students, and educators. Students who successfully complete the online course will be invited to participate in a STEM-focused experience at the Montana Learning Center at Canyon Ferry Lake. Registration closes February 28th.
Montana Science Olympiad date set for April 7, 2021!
The Virtual Science Olympiad date is set for Wednesday, April 7, 2021! Registration is now open. Middle and high school teams are encouraged to join the 2021 Science Olympiad season. Need more information? Interested in volunteering? Have other questions? Contact MTSO via email or phone.
Standards, Instruction and Professional Learning Contacts
Colet Bartow, Senior Manager, Teaching and Learning Department, 406-444-3583
Stephanie Swigart, English Language Arts Coordinator, 406-444-0736
Michelle McCarthy, Science Coordinator, 406-444-3537
Marisa Graybill, Mathematics Coordinator, 406-444-0706
Terri Barclay, Montana Comprehensive Literacy Project Manager, 406-444-0753
Carli Cockrell, Professional Learning Coordinator, 406-444-0769
Vacant, Teacher Learning Hub Coordinator, 406-444-3557
Allyson Briese, Teacher Learning Hub Content Specialist, 406-444-0716
Marjorie O'Rourke, Professional Learning Data & Information Specialist, 406-444-3538
The OPI is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation, require an alternate format, or have questions concerning accessibility, contact the OPI ADA Coordinator, 406-444-3161, opiada@mt.gov, Relay Service: 711.
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