ESD Holiday Giving

As we near the holiday season, Cabinet and ESD Connects leaders have been in discussions about ESD giving opportunities. It takes significant time, dedication, organization and manpower behind the scenes to manage the ESD “Giving Tree,” so this year, we have made a decision to revamp our efforts, yet still provide employees an opportunity to purchase needed items.

We will decorate the tree with tags asking for a variety of books, toys and games for children (of all ages) we serve in our early learning programs. ESIT, ECEAP and EHS staff will have an opportunity to “shop” for appropriate items for the families they serve and deliver them in time for the holidays. We will also pull some items from the HUGS tree (Hats, Underwear, Gloves and Socks) for our families that need those items.

Those who would like to purchase something more specific for an individual may select a tag for an item submitted by SHARE, one of our community partners. We’ve offered to help support 2-3 of the families they’ve identified with the most significant needs.  SHARE has the capacity (volunteers and staff) to manage a large giving effort, while our staff resources are limited.

We know this is a bit different from year’s past, but our goal is always to find ways to support the families we serve as well as those in our community! Let us know if you have questions!

And speaking of the Giving Tree – it should be UP before the Thanksgiving break!

Donuts with the Director in third month

Employees with November birthdays visited for over an hour with our superintendent. In an informal conversation over delectable donuts and coffee, the group talked about everything from fun at the Hootenanny to the importance of piloting a mental health center and having enough time and funding for early learning staff professional development. What do people appreciate? Tim’s weekly emails, email introductions of new staff and autonomy to do their work.

December birthday folks – don’t miss the opportunity to visit with Tim, have a sweet treat and enjoy hearing from other department staff about their work!

Legislative Priorities

With our December 13 Legislative Forum quickly approaching, and 10 local legislators scheduled meet with superintendents, we created an informational piece about the priorities from our region. Of course, at the top are:

  1. Addressing funding for special education
  2. Addressing the inequities to schools as outlined in the current state budget.

Read our Legislative Priorities here.

JUST ASK! What else do you want to know? Please be sure to ask questions when something is unclear or if you have a burning question about anything ESD-related!