Faithful With a Few Things

By Staci Fletcher, 7th-12th Math and Science Teacher

The other day I read an article from a local newspaper about a school that had gone from the state's "D" rating to it's "A" rating in one year's time. These types of articles always intrigue me because I have a passion to research and learn how I can be the best teacher possible within my environment. As I made my way through the article I was in awe of what I was reading. I felt this way because as the article described the steps taken for the school to elevate their status so quickly and effectively, were descriptions of Bios.

 This article listed some specifics on what the administrator changed about the school to make it become an "A" school. These changes included the following: maximizing instruction for students, tightening up the school day to make more time for instruction and less for play, extra help was provided to students after school, teachers participated in in two professional book studies in relation to effective teaching practices, teachers were given a goal and a daily purpose to work towards in their instruction, teachers were taught that teaching is not a  "one size fits all" approach, and teachers were given immediate feedback on assessment data for each of their students so they could regularly monitor student progress and adjust accordingly.

All of the above listed actions this administrator took to help a school go from a failing standard to a standard of achievement are the typical protocol for Bios. Day in and day out everyone involved with our students' education take these steps as a regular part of their day without thinking twice. I was feeling very thankful and blessed about pondering such things that I have come to take for granted as a teacher and a parent at Bios.

There were two statements this administrator gave to sum up what made the difference in their school. The first was "... explicit, quality instruction plays a huge role." and teachers need to "... continue to give 110 percent each and every day." These statements are Bios in a nutshell. Ultimately though, what makes all of the above work so well for Bios is not a standard motivated by requirements set by man, but a standard motivated by the love of our Savior who we serve and want to glorify with a much greater reward than an "A" status. Bios does what they do to one day hear, "... 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!' " Yes, Bios is a unique place, blessed by God in a world struggling so hard to earn the praises of man. I am a grateful parent and teacher of this wonderful chunk of my daily life.

Building Update

Last Monday, Lori Greene, our Director of Admissions and Administration, Glenn Odergard, our general contractor, and myself met with the project architects for the purpose of reviewing the plans and setting a timeline for completion. After reviewing and revising the plans, a tentative schedule was discussed to begin digging the water and sewer lines which will happen sometime around September 10. The installing of water and sewer should end sometime around Fall Break or the second week of October. During Fall Break the restrooms in the existing K-6 classrooms should be installed. The 7-12 grade restrooms will be really close to being finished during the break also.

As far as the new buildings, we wait patiently for the Town of Gilbert's comments on the plans already submitted.

The architects were also asked to provide the dimensions for the area set aside for the playground equipment so planning and estimates for the cost can begin.

A new and prettier fence than the chain link fence currently surrounding the property is to have drawings made and presented to the town so it has the potential to be installed before the new additions are completed.

That is all for now. Any questions, concerns, or comments please contact me.