Department of Education Monday Minutes

Here are your Monday Minutes for the week of August 31 - September 4, 2020. 

From the Department Head

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff, 

The past two weeks have been a whirlwind with the start of the fall semester and continued unrest in our country. I acknowledge the continued race and social issues that have sadly become part of our daily news feed. As department head, creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students and employees is my number one priority. Our college diversity and inclusion plan is not just a document—we “walk the talk.” 

This weekend I read a blog post that got me thinking. We all now know that masks can feel uncomfortable, and some folks wear a different kind of mask—one that cannot be removed. The author states, “Until every student can bring all of their identities, characteristics, and struggles freely and openly to the classroom, the residence hall, the student center, and the sports field, they will put on masks to feel a bit safer.”  Let’s listen, really listen, learn, and grow. As I’ve said before, growth can be uncomfortable, but we must embrace that discomfort if we are to change our thinking and behavior. As future and current educators, this is our responsibility. 

We are so glad that you have chosen MSU for your education or career! For additional resources on how to learn more about diversity and inclusion please visit the MSU resource guide.

Take good care,

 Ann Dutton Ewbank's signature 

Dr. Ann Ewbank

News and Announcements

  • The Department of Education is sponsoring a free, online Reading Clinic for children in grades 5-8 from 10/5-11/9. Please see the attached flyer and share with interested parents. 
  • This semester, the Graduate School is allowing video conferencing for comprehensive exams, Master’s and Dissertation defenses. No prior authorization is needed. Micki MacGregor can assist with public notices for online defenses. 
  • The department has a variety of technology for classroom use, such as Swivl robots and OWL cameras. Contact Becky Stanton to learn more and check out equipment. 
  • Make sure to check the MSU COVID-19 webpage frequently as university and system-wide updates are available all in one place.

Extra! Extra! Read all about it!

  • Congratulations to PhD candidate Dallas Dallman for her daughter Dakota’s artwork featured in First Lady Melania Trump's "Building the Movement" art exhibit at the White House in celebrating the 100th anniversary of women's suffrage! 

Professional Development & Engagement Opportunities

  • The Montana Board of Public Education meets virtually on Wednesday, September 2, 10am-12pm to vote on the adoption of K-12 content standards in Social Studies, Career & Technical Education, Computer Science, Library Media/Information Literacy, and Technology Integration. Public comment is encouraged. 
  • Department faculty: Montana Association of Colleges of Teacher Education (MTACTE), an affiliate of AACTE, is accepting nominations for President. Contact Ann Ewbank by 9/4 if you are interested in this important state leadership role. 
  • Deborah Rinio, Assistant Teaching Professor, invites all students and faculty to a webinar series on school librarianship. Any educator can benefit from information on these topics. Webinars are at 6pm MST on September 1, October 6, and November 10, and February 2.  The September topic is Adapting School Librarianship in a Pandemic. Registration is required. Please see the attached flyer. 
  • The MSU Renne Library and Data Science Group invites participants to five trainings this semester on the R statistical application. Registration is required. Please see the attached flyer.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Resources

  • The Office of Public Instruction’s Indian Education for All Unit invites educators and administrators to a free six-session webinar series facilitated by IEFA instructional coaches Wednesdays 4-5pm MST in September, October, and November. The webinars will explore the Essential Understandings Regarding Montana Indians. OPI renewal units are provided. 
  • Don’t forget to register to vote for the upcoming general election! Election Day is a university holiday. Civic participation is the foundation of equity, diversity, and inclusion.

A Special Request from Field Placement & Licensure

Teacher Education Program instructors: As we head into the fall term, we have over 80 student teachers.  This is a healthy enrollment and we are looking forward to supporting each student during their semester.  I would like to ask you each to review the list of students, which is attached, and encourage you to reach out to former students.  During this time of uncertainty and potential fear of what lies ahead, I believe they would appreciate hearing from a friendly face.  I think they would each appreciate the support and connection, perhaps now more than ever.

Thanks in advance!    - John Melick

Please see the attached PDF for the list of students. PDF: Student Teachers – Fall 2020