CONNECTIONS NEWSLETTER SUMMER
2019
GROVESACADEMY.ORG
[ CONTENTS ] 1 FROM A FOUNDER A Guest Column by Margie Zats 2 WHY I GIVE The Power of 100 3 MICROSOFT'S DIGIGIRLZ EVENT 4 GRADUATING CLASS OF 2019 5-6 GROVES STUDENT AWARDS 7 CARING YOUTH AWARD 8-9 GROVES GALA Transforming Lives Through Education 10-11 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT 11 2018-2019 BOARD OF TRUSTEES 12-13 INNOVATIVE LEADERSHIP Groves Assumes a Growth Mindset 14-16 GROVES HIGHLIGHTS 17 GROVES ACADEMY'S GOLD STANDARD A conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Schnobrich 18-19 STAFF FEATURE 20-21 LITERACY PARTNERSHIP SUCCESS Expanding Groves Academy's Reach
[ FROM A FOUNDER ]
Continuous and Contagious Caring A Guest Column by One of Groves Academy's Founders, Margie Zats
A door opens and the students stand at the threshold of opportunity. Each is welcomed to learn, to grow, to succeed both academically and in life.
word to encourage when one is needed. It’s an asset to our community. It’s our children’s future. It completes our vision of all we hope for them.
To me, Groves Academy represents a unique experience, custom designed to the needs of every individual. But the classroom contains much more than books and blackboards. Interwoven with the curriculum is a special lesson the children can emulate. It’s called caring; a continuous and contagious feeling to make each and every child know they are important. They matter. And their potential counts. Groves Academy is dedicated to reinforcing that confidence, that determination to grow forward for all the kids. It’s the foundation, the very essence of why the school exists.
Please keep Groves in your thoughts and consideration. Thank you.
These doors, however, do not remain open automatically.
Margie Zats is a Paris-trained chef, author, entrepreneur, award-winning winemaker, and one of Groves Academy’s founders. Margie just celebrated her eighty-fifth birthday. Margie joins Groves each year at Grandparents and Special Friends day to sell her books and generously donates the proceeds of book sales back to Groves. Margie has a new novel coming out this July titled Dancing On A Silver Moon.
Someone, actually lots of someones, have to hold the doors ajar. These people are you and me and the contributions we contribute. I follow a plan that’s comfortable: instead of writing one check each December, I make smaller donations for everyday occasions – birthdays, a new home, a recovery. You get the idea. My recipients then receive a gracious letter of appreciation from Groves, and I in turn enjoy hearing a heartfelt “What a nice idea. We helped a child!” Many organizations are worthy – and, of course, we’re grateful for any amount any time. There’s just something that touches me knowing a youngster will read because I gave. Groves Academy is a resource for all who must find their way; it’s compassion in an everyday classroom. It’s a kind CONNECTIONS | SUMMER 2019
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[ WHY I GIVE ]
From left: Curtis Olufson, Jeannine Nayes (whose son Jameson attended Groves 2003-2009), Stacy Newgaard (Power of 100 Southwest Co-Founder), Lynn Giovannelli, Ashley Gotreau
The Power of 100 Jeannine Nayes joined the Power of 100 four years ago at the suggestion of a woman in her book club, as a way to learn more about charities in our community. Power of 100 is a grassroots organization with groups across the country. It is an informal group with no board nor bylaws. Power of 100 Southwest, co-founded by Stacy Newgaard, has 110 members and is primarily made up of women. To become a member of the Power 100 you commit to make a $100 quarterly donation for a total of $400 each year. Power of 100 has a two hour meeting four times a year. During each meeting three charity names are pulled out of a vase and the member who nominates the charity that gets pulled gets five minutes to share why they nominated this nonprofit and their connection to their mission. Nominated nonprofits must be a 501(c)(3) and in existence for at least two years. Then the full group has the opportunity to ask questions, and each member gets a ballot to pick one of the three nonprofits presented on that evening. While the ballots are being tallied the
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charity that was selected the previous quarter comes and talks about how the Power of 100 gifts made an impact on their organization. Stacy commented that since Power of 100 Southwest’s beginning four years ago, they have contributed almost $175,000 into the community. Jeannine’s charity of choice, if her name was pulled, would be Groves Academy. She attended each meeting prepared to present why Groves would be a great organization for the group to support. “As a former teacher I knew the work being done at Groves was important for our community but also for me personally. When Jameson started at Groves, he hid under tables, was afraid to walk into the school, and was reading below grade level. He had no confidence in his ability or learning. Groves worked with us to come up with a plan to help Jameson. The leadership at Groves was so collaborative and we could tell they deeply cared about Jameson and his success.
"By the time he was a junior he had improved so much – he spoke at Grandparent’s Day, was in the school’s ambassador program and even spoke at graduation. Jameson felt ownership in helping new students feel comfortable at Groves. He left Groves reading above grade level. We thought he would never even graduate high school and he did! And because of the postsecondary program at Groves, he completed a two-year degree at Normandale Community College. Now he has a great job at Amazon. We wouldn’t be where we are if it hadn’t been for Groves.” On April 18th, Jeannine’s name was selected and Groves Academy was the organization receiving the most ballots. Jeannine’s $100 became a $5,000 donation. Power of 100 donations are matched $0.50 on every dollar by the Schulze Family Foundation, so Groves received a total of $7,500, which Jeannine directed to the literacy partnership work Groves does with the Institute for Professional Learning. Why is Power of 100 so important? Jeannine, who is currently looking for other employment opportunities says, “I can afford $100 a quarter to make such a difference in the lives of so many. She comments, “I thought this is a small commitment that provides lots of bang for your buck.” Stacy reflects, “it is so empowering for women to get together and have an impact. There is community being built, and celebration and learning about all of the good work being done in our community. I really enjoyed getting to learn more about Groves Academy through Jeannine’s recent nomination.”
Groves Academy Students Participate at Microsoft's DigiGirlz Event Microsoft's DigiGirlz Day is a one-day event designed to provide middle and high school girls with a better understanding of different career paths in technology. On Tuesday April 23rd, a group of Groves students attended this exciting event. DigiGirlz gave these girls the opportunity to participate in handson sessions and demonstrations, learn about careers in technology, and connect with women in technology careers.
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[ CONGRATULATIONS 2019 SENIORS ]
CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES
Groves Academy proudly presents our largest ever graduating class—the Class of 2019. We wish them all the best of luck in their future endeavors. Some of these graduates are headed to Anoka Hennepin Technical College, Augsburg University, Dunwoody Technical College, St. Mary’s University, and various other exciting opportunities. Congratulations, Class of 2019!
JACOB COZ
JACOB HUSTON
LARRY MOHAMED
ALEXANDER DEFORE
GRANT KIRT
AVA MONRO
ISABEL FRIEDELL
IAN KNOWLTON
REESE OVERSTREET
JULIAN GUNTHER
CLAIRE KROESE
LUKE SILBURN
ZACHARY HAHN
ANDRE KUMAL
ALEX SMITH
BERGEN HILL
ELIZABETH LUCKRAFT
HANNAH SVANOE
ANDREW HOLLISTER
NICHOLAS MAIERS
NATHAN WRIGHT
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STUDENTS TRANSITIONING FROM GROVES ACADEMY This spring Groves Academy said goodbye to 51 students who confidently transitioned to 31 schools, both private and public, to continue their academic journeys. Groves wishes them well at their new schools next fall. Please keep in touch and let us know how it’s going! Email us at advancement@grovesacademy.org
[ GROVES STUDENT AWARDS ]
Nash Avery Wicka Leadership through Service Award This award honors the memory of longtime Groves student Nash Wicka and furthers his legacy of compassion, empathy, and fun while acknowledging Groves students who led others through service.
2019 RECIPIENTS:
Lower School EVELYN McGUIRE
Middle School GRACE CAFFERATA
Upper School LUCY LAMOSSE
B.E.N. (Be Extra Nice) Awards To honor the memory of Groves student Ben Ruedisili, each year one lower, middle, and upper school student is recognized with the B.E.N. Award for demonstrating kindness and leadership throughout the year.
2019 RECIPIENTS:
Lower School SYDNEY CAMPO
Middle School DAVI WORMAN
Upper School CHARLIE BROWN
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[ GROVES STUDENT AWARDS ]
Groves Founder Awards It has been said that the greatest good someone can do is to develop their powers in order that they may be of greater service to others. The Groves Service Award, awarded to a lower school student, and the MacFarlane Award, awarded to a middle school student, are presented to students who exemplify sensitivity to the needs of other students, teachers, and the community— and who exemplify academic and behavioral strengths, being allaround positive members of the Groves community.
GROVES SERVICE AWARD 2019 RECIPIENT:
OLIVIA McJILTON
MACFARLANE AWARD 2019 RECIPIENT:
ELIE WEISS
Thomas S. Hartzell Leadership Award Thomas Hartzell was one of Groves Academy’s founders. He had deep compassion for the needs of young people with learning challenges, and Groves benefited enormously from his leadership and financial support. In his memory we are honored to present the Thomas S. Hartzell Award each year to an upper school student who distinguishes her or himself for their leadership while attending Groves Academy.
2019 RECIPIENT:
ZACHARY HAHN
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30th Annual Roland and Doris Larson Caring Youth Recognition Award Roland and Doris Larson began the Caring Youth Awards in 1989 to recognize young people in the St. Louis Park community for their spirit of caring and concern for others. Nominated by their Groves Academy teachers, two students were honored at the 30th Annual Roland and Doris Larson Caring Youth Recognition Awards on April 29 at the Marriott Minneapolis West in St. Louis Park.
2019 RECIPIENTS: Upper School— MARJA CASSIDY Upper School— JACOB PETERSON "Serve. Grow. Lead. The desire to connect to others gives rise to the best type of and most impactful leadership." -Kim Peeples, Head of School
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[ TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH EDUCATION ]
[ Gala Propels Groves Mission ] On April 27, more than 500 Groves friends and families came together to celebrate at the 42nd Annual Groves Gala. More than $660,000 was raised to propel our mission of building confidence, success, and purpose through transformative learning experiences. Every single dollar raised will help provide educational resources, scholarships for 30% of students at our school, and help close the literacy achievement gap with our partner schools. The evening included a poignant keynote address by author Lisa Wood Shapiro. Lisa Wood Shapiro is a contributor to Vogue, Wired, Outside Magazine, Real Simple, and The Hiking Project. She wrote “The End Of Dyslexia” for Wired, June 2018. She is also the author of the humorous memoir Hot Mess Mom and is currently finishing her second book. Lisa also spent time with our students at Groves to share her journey as a dyslexic journalist and author on Friday before the big event. Thank you to the many volunteers, sponsors, friends, and donors who made the gala such a success. Be sure to save the date for next year’s event on April 25, 2020, and in the meantime please visit our website for more information at grovesgala.org.
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Save the Date! The 43rd Annual
GROVES GALA April 25, 2020 Please visit grovesgala.org to watch Lisa Wood Shapiro's keynote address.
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[ ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT ] How did your time at Groves prepare you for your next steps? Groves made it possible for me to enter into the regular English Communications class at St. Louis Park Junior High. The ability for me to enter into this class paved the way for academic success, which I believe allowed me to get into college, which provided the backbone I needed to have a successful business career. What are some of your favorite memories of Groves?
Asher Gavzy How long were you at Groves Academy and what were a few key things you learned at Groves? I attended Groves from 1995-1998 during 4th, 5th, and 6th grade. I learned many things at Groves, but some of the things that stick out to me include: learning how to write my address and phone number by memory; how to read and write cursive; how to differentiate ‘b’ and ‘d’ using the “bed” trick; and the difference of directional left and right using the “thumb” trick. Most importantly, I learned that there were people with a similar learning disability to me out there besides my mom. What did you do after Groves? I went on to St. Louis Park Junior High and High School. I graduated with my B.A. in Hotel Management in 2008 from Johnson & Wales University. After college I worked in operations management at several boutique hotels on the East and West Coast. In 2012 I came back to Minnesota to work at the family business, Property Solutions & Services (PSS), a property management company that specializes in affordable housing. In July, 2019 I will become President and CEO of PSS.
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The memory that sticks out the most was once a week or so I recall, I would see the speech pathologist, and we would play Pass the Pigs dice game by Milton Bradley. I do not remember what we did with the game, I just remember that I loved playing that game. I have memories of playing Number Munchers and Oregon Trail on a Macintosh Computer in the
computer lab. Gym class was my favorite class, and the rock climbing wall was always enjoyable. When my friends and I thought Groves needed a real playground for recesses, they supported our idea and fundraised the necessary money to build a beautiful playground. Why do you think Groves is an important asset to the Twin Cities community? Groves is an essential asset to the Twin Cities community because it provides an education platform to help children with learning disabilities receive an award-winning education tailored to that child's learning needs. Groves is on the forefront of educational trends and is a leader in specialized educational institutions. What would you tell a student who was new to Groves about the school? Groves is here to help, and you should feel proud to go to Groves. When people ask you where you go to school, you should not feel embarrassed to say Groves Academy. Groves has invited you into their community because your brain processes information differently. This is and will be one of your best attributes in life. You have a learning disability that makes you think and maybe act differently from a nonGroves student. Because of this, Groves is going to teach to you in a different way that will allow you to harness your special traits. Anything else you would like to share with the Groves community? Donations make it possible for this award-winning education institution to operate. I am grateful to Groves.
short stories, and plays accepted for publication as well. How did your time at Groves prepare you for your next steps?
Emma Johnson-Rivard How long were you at Groves Academy and what were a few key things you learned at Groves? I was at Groves starting in third grade up until fifth (2001-2004). I had severe dyslexia and Central Auditory Processing Disorder, to the extent I couldn't read or write fluently until about fifth grade. It was a hard transition for me. I didn't know any of the students at Groves and I missed my friends. Academics were frustrating. But I did learn how to read. That was huge for me. For a while it wasn't clear if I'd be able to go to college, but I did. I owe that to Groves. What did you do after Groves? I finished up middle school, got involved in varsity athletics once in high school, and then was accepted into Smith College, where I received my BA in Film Studies in 2015. I took a year off to work before applying to the Creative Writing program at Hamline University, where I graduated in May 2019. My chapbook, The Witch's Cat And Her Fateful Murder Ballads, won the Esthetic Apostle's chapbook contest and was released in October 2018. I've had a number of poems,
Maybe it's too simple to say that Groves taught me how to read, but learning to read was everything to me. Before Groves, I struggled immensely in school and hated being there. Now I've completed my Master’s degree and hope to one day earn a PhD. I never would have had the opportunities to even consider this if I hadn't gone to Groves. My life was greatly enriched by my time there. What are some of or one of your favorite memories of Groves? I remember when we voted on the school's new logo. I voted for the star, but my best friend voted for the logo with the apple on the desk. We had a fight about that, but I remember it fondly. I also have very fond memories of one of my teachers, Ms. Voigt. Why do you think Groves is an important asset to the Twin Cities community?
2018-2019 Groves Academy Board of Trustees Megan Prindiville CHAIR Tom Grover VICE CHAIR Dan Deikel TREASURER Scott Lang SECRETARY Trish Blake Dr. Peter Brown Anne Harbison David Iverson
Groves gives students like me a chance to succeed. Without Groves, I likely would not have finished high school. Counselors (pre-Groves) told my parents not to expect much from me. I won't say the road has been easy for me, but I got the chance to try. Everyone deserves that.
Cindee McCarthy
What would you tell a student who was new to Groves about the school?
Tom Schnack
It's hard work, but worth it in the end. Anything else you would like to share with the Groves community?
Meredith McGuirk Suanne Orenstein Steve Pontius
Beth Simermeyer Deborah Sundal
Keep up the good work.
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[ INNOVATIVE LEADERSHIP ]
A Groves Tank student group presents their course project to local community "Sharks"
Groves Assumes a Growth Mindset If you've heard the term "Executive Function" and you're wondering what it means, you're not alone. Students who have ADHD and learning disabilities often struggle with Executive Function (EF). Executive Function can be thought of as the brain's ability to coordinate the thinking and behavior needed to start, sustain, monitor, and adjust attitudes and behaviors in order to achieve a goal. Many experts view EF as the skills people need to manage selfcontrol and regulation. Examples of these skills include paying attention, organizing, planning and processing, regulating emotions, self-monitoring, and understanding different points of view.
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Recognizing that Executive Function challenges impact the majority of its students, Groves Academy decided to focus on enhancing these skills by making EF a primary theme this year. Groves Upper School students had a new daily course this school year called "Executive Functioning in the Classroom and Beyond." Through the experience, each student was able to understand their own EF profile, gain tools, skills, and strategies to aid in project management, and learn to apply strategies to novel problems and situations. Many students were able to explore their own interests, careers, and other "life after Groves" concepts.
The project also emphasized metacognition, or thinking about the way we learn, to help students apply their newly gained knowledge of EF processes to better understand themselves as learners. Students gained an array of new tools and were equipped with the self-knowledge to use these skills independently. Groves partnered with 2018 Groves Gala keynote speaker Dean Bragonier to weave NoticeAbility’s Entrepreneurs & Innovators curriculum into the EF course during the spring semester. The EF course’s capstone project was “Groves Tank,” a Shark Tank-inspired project, where months of planning produced dozens of student groups proffering inventions to panels of volunteer judges comprised of local community professionals. Each polished 15- to 20-minute student group presentation incorporated a pitch, product description, target client, advertising campaign, and visuals.
A newly developed "Writing and Executive Function Program" for Groves Summer Programs students in grades 5-7 is in high demand. As a resource for the community, in June Groves added a new Community Workshop featuring an EF presentation by Groves faculty members Andy Tolan and Rachel Erickson. The duo gave a similar presentation earlier in the school year to the Minnesota Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) to help expose other independent school educators to the benefits of nurturing mindfulness and a growth mindset in their own classrooms. Building on these successes, there are future plans to add an EF course for Groves lower school students.
To engage parents, ADHD Coach and Educator Holly West Jones delivered an enlightening workshop in September to Groves upper school parents to help them understand their students from a developmental perspective and provide additional guidance for effective and mindful parenting. Holly West Jones also presented a Groves Community Workshop in November on the topic of ADHD and Executive Function to an at-capacity crowd at our school.
Clockwise from top right: Dean Bragonier discusses an entreprenuership project one-on-one with a student, Groves Tank student group presents course project to local community "Sharks," an EF student project vision board, Head of School Kim Peeples and Groves students are interviewed about Groves Tank project on Kare11 television broadcast, Groves upper school students show their innovative prototypes, Holly West Jones presents to Groves parents.
[ GROVES HIGHLIGHTS ]
Transforming Lives Through Literacy On May 22nd, the WEM Foundation and Groves Academy’s Institute for Professional Learning cohosted a literacy luncheon titled “A Forum for Inspiration, Connection, and Joint Discovery.” In attendance were committed leaders and practitioners of early literacy work from organizations around the Twin Cities. The keynote speakers and facilitators of the event were Barbara Hammond and Liz Woody-Remington, co-founders of The Learning Alliance. They shared how breakdowns have led to breakthroughs with
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their “Moonshot Moment,” a community-based learning journey in Vero Beach, FL. The goal of The Learning Alliance is to have 90% of children reading on grade level by third grade. Groves is grateful for WEM Foundation's support of the IPL's work in early literacy.
You can visit The Learning Alliance website at www.thelearningalliance.org.
Groves Senior Trip 2019 Groves Academy's tradition taking the senior class on an end of the year trip continued this spring when the group headed to Madeline Island to make lasting memories. Most of the seniors (17 of the 21) were able to attend and lots of fun was had by all! The trip was chaperoned by Ms. Buccina and Mrs. Selzer.
Trap Team Success Groves Academy’s trap team won their 2019 Spring Trap League Conference which advanced them to the Alexandria Championships. In Alexandria, the team placed 4th out of 73 Class 1A teams. Ian Knowlton had the best day of his high school career, and placed 3rd overall out of the 873 shooters, hitting 98 out of 100 targets. Additionally, Jacob Peterson shot a 96, taking 8th place and Nick Skallerud shot 91 for 41st place. The other top Varsity scores were Daniel McHenry 86, Luca Dalsin 85, and Thomas Enger 84. In the Junior Varsity Division, Lily Erickson shot an 80 and placed 13th on the girls standings. Quinn Martinsen and Caleb Ertel both shot 84 and tied for 41st. Congratulations Griffins!
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[ GROVES HIGHLIGHTS ]
Special Thanks A special thank you to our Groves Parent Organization (GPO) leaders for helping build community and fun this school year.
Avner Moriah visits Groves Academy On Monday, June 3rd, renowned Israeli artist, Avner Moriah visited Groves Academy to share his perspective regarding his dyslexia as a gift of unique creativity. Avner started his day creating art in collaboration with Groves students from all three divisions and facilitating conversations about students' journeys with learning disabilities. A special thanks to Groves trustee member Suanne Orenstein, for introducing Avner to Groves and for helping arrange his visit from Jerusalem, in partnership with Temple Israel. Moriah’s art can be found in the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Jewish Museum of New York, the Israel Museum, the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., The Vatican, The Library of Congress, Harvard University, Yale University, and UCLA, as well as museums and galleries throughout the world.
Pictured: Dana Barr, Alison Grover, and Carrie Gorder, Not pictured Cari Ann Wolfson
Smile for Groves
Did you know that you can support Groves Academy when you shop on Amazon.com? It’s easy! By using AmazonSmile, 0.5% of your eligible purchase price will be donated to Groves Academy and help support our mission to build confidence, success, and purpose through transformative learning experiences. https://smile.amazon.com/ When you visit smile.amazon.com for the first time, you must select a charity to support. In the “pick your own charitable organization” field, enter “Groves Academy” and press “Search.” Select Groves from the search results and you are all set!
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[ GROVES ACADEMY'S GOLD STANDARD ]
A conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Schnobrich Dr. Schnobrich joined The Learning Center psychologists team on April 1st. She talks about the unique aspects of diagnostic testing at The Learning Center at Groves Academy.
Welcome, and why are you excited to work at Groves? Groves offers a unique opportunity for families in the community to be able to help children who are struggling in their academics. I enjoy working with the team at Groves and the team works together very well. Each member of our team has unique gifts they bring to the table and every student not only gets my expertise but also the expertise of the whole team, as a result of our collaboration. Additionally, the student and family experience with testing is one of the most important priorities to our team. Do you have any early reflections about how diagnostics at Groves is different than other places you have worked? What is truly special about Groves compared to other places I have worked is we treat each child as an individual. We tailor our approach to every child who participates in our diagnostic process. We are flexible and able to individualize our testing in the moment, as we are working
with the child. We start with IQ and academic achievement testing and determine what additional tests are needed based upon their performance and the referral questions. The diagnostic testing is incredibly detailed and complex. We are also confident with the outcome of the testing because of the breadth of testing we complete and our adherence to the standardized testing procedures. Groves is notable because, as a psychologist on the diagnostic team, evaluations are all we do and we do them well. We focus on helping identify individual struggles with children and adults. Groves is very specialized and has such a rich history in helping individuals. Ray Boyd and Nancy Knight have been a part of this program for decades and their knowledge and expertise has set the bar high.
their schools. We operate at the highest level of quality. We follow the protocol precisely and do our due diligence. With Groves you can be assured that you are getting the top level of service.
For more information about Diagnostic Evaluations at The Learning Center, please call 952.920.6377 or email learningcenter@grovesacademy.org
Groves sets the gold standard of testing and reporting on our evaluations. We gear our reports in a way that is not only understandable to parents but also includes specific recommendations for students and CONNECTIONS | SUMMER 2019
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[ STAFF FEATURE ] How has Groves Academy changed over the years? In my ten years at Groves, I could sum it up in one word – growth. Growth both in the physical space we are currently in and also growth in programs and students served. Also in John’s [Alexander] tenure, he helped us become focused on who we serve and embracing our mission, vision, and core values. Which has allowed us to grow and make an impact. I am energized being a part of something on the move. What do you like best about your role at Groves? Working with parents and their children. Answering their questions and guiding them as they make big decisions. Watching the students get involved in the decision process. Helping the parents come up with questions to feel more prepared – what do I ask the new school? Is my child ready? What might trip them up when they walk out the door? What are you most excited about at Groves?
Kim Aune
Groves Transitions Advocate How long have you been at Groves Academy? What are the various roles you have held in your tenure at Groves?
I toured 27 schools this past year. I am excited to tour at least 15 more schools the fall. It is energizing to continue to understand what is out there for our students and why other schools may or may not be a fit. It is so important to visit schools, ask questions and encourage students to ask questions on visiting days. I enjoy helping the parents navigate this whole process. The Transition Advocate is a new full-time position at Groves. Tell us more about the development of this program.
I have been at Groves for 10 years. I started part-time as a lunchroom helper, taught keyboarding to lower school students, and then added managing the tutoring program. When The Learning Center opened in 2015, I moved to a full-time role as Client Services Manager which involved working with families seeking diagnostic assessments, speech, and tutoring. After three years, I moved to this new role as the Transitions Advocate for our school.
This program has evolved quite a bit over the years. Transitions in and out of Groves have always been a part of our community. We recognized as we grew that to be able to do this really well for our students and their families we needed a full-time point person. We work to prepare a student and family as they move on to their next school. This may include questions to ask new schools, attending an open house, updating a child’s diagnostic assessment for the transition, guidance, if needed on the special education process, and helping write an accommodation plan.
Why did you choose to work at Groves Academy?
How have your various roles at Groves helped you prepare for your new role?
I spent my career as a corporate trainer and then I took a nine year maternity leave. When I was ready to go back to work I knew I wanted to work part-time in an educational setting. Groves was a good first step in helping me explore if I wanted to make a career in education. I applied and here we are. I truly enjoy working with students and their families.
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My role as the Client Service Manager in the Learning Center helped prepare me for this job. I have a deep understanding of the diagnostic assessment process, the different types of testing available and have a great working relationship with the psychologists.
" A lot goes into the decision to transition for each family. We want our families to feel as supported as they leave as when they first walked through the doors at Groves." As we look ahead to the new school year what things are you planning to implement for the program? Quite a few things are in the works including: getting more electronicbased records so we can rapidly access files for a student’s transition process, hosting a transition night in the fall for families, keeping office hours during conferences, continued development of the working relationship with St. Louis Park public schools for special education referral, using parent feedback to create a new updated transition document to help parents which includes a readiness checklist developed with the help of Admissions, and continuing to improve tools based on parent feedback. Another big item is to develop a road map for students and their families as we all navigate this process—sort of a what-to-do-when situation. It is tricky because each student and their plans are unique but we're working to create a baseline for all. What do you like to do outside of Groves? I enjoy spending time with my family. Starting this fall, both of my children will be away at college, so this will look very different. I’m an avid camper, and I canoe and camp in the Boundary Waters and around Minnesota.
John Moore
Groves Academy Security Guard shares how Groves is taking security seriously How long have you been at Groves Academy? I have been at Groves since of August of 2018. Why did you choose to work at Groves Academy? I was placed at Groves through the security firm I worked for. Groves was looking for someone with a lot of experience. I have been in the security business for over 30 years. Before this employer, I had my own security firm for 12 years we did all sorts of things like special events and bodyguard protection. What do you like best about your role at Groves? The people. Everyone is great - the staff, kids, and parents. Since my first day at Groves I have been welcomed with open arms. What are your responsibilities at Groves? For the day-to-day security, I am responsible for checking in parents, learning center clients, and guests every day. Groves has a great security system which scans the ID given by the guest and runs it through a
national system to make sure this guest should be allowed in a school. I think all schools should have it. I also monitor over 60 cameras that are located all over Groves. And lastly, I make sure to keep kids safe at pick-up and drop-off by directing traffic. At pick-up we have gotten it down to 12 minutes with all kids in the cars safely. Could you share one of your best days since you have been here at Groves? All of the days are special. These kids are awesome. I really like working at Groves. Everyone is like a family. When I was out for a week, because of a death in the family, I was getting messages from staff sharing how parents missed me. All of my parents are VIP. I am grateful for the parents and when it is cold some parents even bring me hot chocolate! What do you like to do outside of Groves? I am a baseball dad, most of my time goes into baseball. I also love to cook and eat. And I like to bring my 1976 Buick Riviera to car shows in the summer – I just got the engine souped-up and it is a beast.
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[ EXPANDING GROVES ACADEMY'S REACH ]
Literacy Partnership Success Please meet the second grade class at Friendship Academy of the Arts charter school in Minneapolis. The 22 students in this class, all eligible for free and reduced lunch, began the 2017-18 school year struggling to learn how to read. Their teacher lacked a research-based understanding in how to teach literacy. Enter Katharine Campbell, Director of the Institute for Professional Learning at Groves Academy. With a new, eager-to-learn teacher in place by January 2018, Katharine was able to engage her in learning how to teach utilizing evidence-based literacy instruction. By the end of the school year, each second grader had gained significant ground in moving from learning to read, to reading to learn. Literacy is defined as the ability to read and write, and it must be learned. All children are entitled to learn how to read by a qualified teacher trained in evidence-based literacy instruction. Statistics show that this is
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not happening. Sixty-four percent of our nation’s fourth graders are unable to read proficiently, meaning with good comprehension. In Minnesota, 61% cannot read proficiently and 79% of fourth graders receiving free and reduced lunch are not proficient readers. The cost of not being able to read is high for both the individual and society. Children who do not read proficiently by the end of third grade are four times more likely to leave school without a diploma. Overall, 43% of adults in the United States with the lowest literacy skills live in poverty versus only 5% with strong literacy skills. Taken as a whole, these disparities have created a well-defined reading achievement gap not only in Minnesota, but also across the United States. Groves Academy’s Board of Trustees, leadership team and extended community recognize that these disparities are too deep to ignore. In 2016, with 44 years of proven
academic results with its own students, Groves launched the Institute for Professional Learning (IPL) to act as a catalyst for systems change in literacy instruction. The IPL’s overall goal is to broaden and deepen the reach of the proven Groves Literacy Framework® through the delivery of school-based K-3 teacher training using evidence-based literacy instruction and curriculum. The IPL staff partners with public district/charter and Catholic schools in the Twin Cities Metro area. With partnerships designed to last three years, the IPL has grown from serving two schools during the 2016-17 school year to 30 in 2019-20 including an exciting roll out in partnership with the Catholic Schools Center of Excellence. Crucial to the success of the program is that Groves partners with schools where 90% of teachers and administration are committed to implementing the Groves Literacy Framework® in K-3 classrooms.
Partnership Growth Literacy is a fundamental human right and the foundation for lifelong learning. It is fully essential to social and human development in its ability to transform lives. (UNESCO, 2013) The 2018-19 school year was pivotal for the IPL in that partner schools reduced the number of struggling readers considered to be "high risk" by 27%. In addition, the students who remained at “high risk” in our partner schools are closing the gap, improving at over twice the rate of the national average. The 2019-20 school year will begin with 3 additional Literacy Coaches joining the IPL team, and the launch of two newly designed teacher certification programs for partner schools. The IPL team will also return to Friendship Academy of the Arts this fall to complete its third year of the partnership. The second grade class of 2017-18 transitioned to third grade in 2018-19. With them on this journey was the same second grade teacher who embraced the Groves Literacy Framework® in her classroom. By transitioning with them to third grade she became a catalyst bringing systems change to classroom literacy instruction. Already understanding her students' strengths and challenges, she was able to nurture and push the literacy learning in her class from early in the school year. They continued, with strong evidence-based instruction, to make strides in meeting the important marker of reading to learn by end of third grade.
In 2019-20, Groves will triple the number of literacy partnership schools, reaching 180 classrooms and more than 3,600 students.
Groves Literacy Partnership Schools are Closing the Gap: High Risk 1st grade students in Groves Literacy Partnership Schools advance at over twice the rate of the national average.
Would you like to learn more about our school literacy partnerships? Please contact Katharine Campbell at campbellk@grovesacademy.org
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3200 HIGHWAY 100 SOUTH ST. LOUIS PARK, MN 55416 GROVESACADEMY.ORG
SAVE THE DATE! 18th Annual Groves LD/ADHD College Fair Tuesday, October 1, 2019 Doubletree Park Place - St. Louis Park, MN 6:00 - 8:30 PM Take the next steps toward your future. The only college fair of its kind in Minnesota, this FREE event caters to students with learning disabilities and attention disorders. Representatives from 40+ schools and organizations will be in attendance.
INFO AND REGISTRATION
grovesacademy.org/college-fair
2019-2020 COMMUNITY WORKSHOP SERIES
Groves Academy is committed to expanding the benefits we offer to the parents, educators, and students in the greater community. Workshops are low or no cost and all are open to the public. For a full list of all 2019-2020 community workshops, information about each workshop, and registration please visit grovesacademy.org/events.
2019 FALL WORKSHOPS: 9.12.2019 Overview of Executive Functioning 10.8.2019 How to Assess if a Student Needs Speech Language Therapy Services 10.15.2019 The Nature of Anxiety and Better Management 11.5.2019 Tips from the Trenches - Concrete Suggestions for Parents Learned as a Psychologist and Mother
11.14.2019 Dyslexia and Other Learning Disabilities 11.21.2019 ADHD and Executive Functioning 12.5.2019 How Executive Functioning Deficits Impact Reading, Writing, and Oral Language Dates, times, speakers, and topics are subject to change.
$15 ADMITTANCE Community workshops are free of charge for current Groves Academy and Learning Center families. Š 2019 Groves Academy. All rights reserved.