Wednesday, March 31

8:37 a.m. Today is going to be a day (and night) I was not planning on.  The Harrison girls are going to be visiting and spending the night.  So come tomorrow morning at this time, I'll be drained.  It's actually a good day for them to be here.  The weather is cold and windy, so outdoor projects are on hold.  I don't have any officiating tonight, so that's good.  I really don't have to do any school work, so that's fine.  All in all, a devoted "Jay" day today is okay.  I just have to get my morning stretch and walk in before they arrive.

Apparently I might have a virtual meeting with my financial planner today, but I'm still not sure about that.  If it happens, that's fine.

Last night was volleyball officiating at UTHS.  I still am struggling with alignment, which affects my ability to judge legal and illegal back row attacks, as well as illegal alignments.  I know this, so now it's just a matter of figuring out how to improve.  I was working with a seasoned veteran volleyball official, so that was helpful in some ways and stressful in others.  He called a very tight game, and I did not.  Hopefully Thursday will be another learning experience.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for April 6
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - for April 6
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed - for April 6
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for next FRW for April 7

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio #20155
• email to coaches and update games on IHSA site
• get the HHR oil changed
• vaccuum out the HHR and GMC
• Get "stuff" out of the shed
• Work up the little garden patch
• open the pool
• make a new seating chart for week of return
• enter FRW scores for March 24
• enter journal blogger scores for March 26
• enter essay scores
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• pay off Chase's medical bill debt - called it in today...check for payment made and receipt
• get camper out of storage - replace LP tanks, replace spare tire, get water lines ready
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• Arda Meeting Sunday, Wednesday 3:30
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• new study protein
• fix the green door.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Thurs. 4-1 VB 5 p.m. at RHS with Ebersole #71101
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Wed. 4-14 VB 5 p.m. at Geneseo with Braeden
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Tuesday, March 30

7:34 a.m. - Well, I'm getting around a little sooner this morning.  Last night's volleyball at West Central went okay.  I screwed up a signal, but that was a minor problem.  I did "see" the game a little better, at least when I was R1.  I was able to identify the setters and anticipate where they were going to line up and where they were going to move.  That was an improvement.  Tonight I head to UTHS work with a very experience official.  I'll learn some more tonight.  The weather is not really cooperating.  Cold and windy again today, even though the winds aren't supposed to be as bad as yesterday.  I'll probably bundle up and do some work outside around the house.  Maybe I'll take a shopvac to the HHR and GMC; I can do that in the garage.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for April 6
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - for April 6
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed - for April 6
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for next FRW for April 7

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio #20155
• . 3-29 at VB at West Central with Dan Bergland # 11573
• update IHSA and send email
• loaded car with softball umpiring stuff
• pick up Easter cards and something for Cole, Carmen, and Chase
• vaccuum out the HHR and GMC
• take money to bank for deposit
• Get "stuff" out of the shed
• Work up the little garden patch
• open the pool
• make a new seating chart for week of return
• enter FRW scores for March 24
• enter journal blogger scores for March 26
• enter essay scores
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• pay off Chase's medical bill debt - called it in today...check for payment made and receipt
• get camper out of storage - replace LP tanks, replace spare tire, get water lines ready
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• Arda Meeting Sunday, Wednesday 3:30
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• after 1 year 100 lbs lost
• fix the green door.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Thurs. 4-1 VB 5 p.m. at RHS with Ebersole #71101
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Wed. 4-14 VB 5 p.m. at Geneseo with Braeden
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Monday, March 29

8:35 a.m. - It's nice to have a day off - first day of Spring Break.  I really haven't been productive so far, but that's okay.  I'm not going to beat myself up about that, but I am going to get productive now.

2:01 p.m. - I just got home from taking a 40-minute walk in at Loud Thunder on the Bridle Trail.  I want to try to get 30 minutes of exercise sometime before either officiating, umpiring, or exercising in the evening.  I would prefer 30 minutes in the morning after I wake up and get a stretch, but I'll take whatever I'm able to get.  I also stopped and picked up some kitty litter and bottled water and Dollar General in Milan - dang that place is yucky.  Prior to all of that I went to Aledo and filled propane tanks for the camper and for the grill.  One of the tanks for the camper didn't need to be filled, and the whole thing cost $44.  I think the lesson learned today is that the propane usage is pretty slow; I'd be surprised if we go through both tanks in a season, and to do that we would have to run the furnace heater a lot.  After the run to Aledo, my intention was to go into Moline and pay off what balance to a collection agency from an issue I ran into with my ex-wife.  It's too much of a frustrating story to share here, but basically I used the $1,400 stimulus check to pay off that collection agency...ugh, don't get me started.  The unfortunate part was that I could have just called and done it without the trip into Moline.  I figured I would have to go in and find out the balance and write a check.  They weren't accepting in-person payments (presumably due to COVID), but the could do it over the phone.  So from the parking lot at H&R Accounts, I took care of the stupid balance.  GRRRR.  I wonder how those collection agencies make their money...do they only give the company they represent a portion of the actual money it is owed?  That has to be it.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 26
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for next FRW in April

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Mon. 3-29 at VB at West Central with Dan Bergland # 11573
• update Association balance and take check to bank
• Get "stuff" out of the shed
• Work up the little garden patch
• open the pool
• make a new seating chart for week of return
• enter FRW scores for March 24
• enter journal blogger scores for March 26
• enter essay scores
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• pay off Chase's medical bill debt - called it in today...check for payment made and receipt
• get camper out of storage - fill LP tanks, replace spare tire, get water lines ready
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• Arda Meeting Sunday, Wednesday 3:30
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• Watched five through Health at Every Size Is A Lie
• fix the green door.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio #20155
• Thurs. 4-1 VB 5 p.m. at RHS with Ebersole #71101
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Wed. 4-14 VB 5 p.m. at Geneseo with Braeden
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Sunday, March 28

9:04 a.m. I went to the softball clinic and picked up a few things from the clinician.  It was nice to ride with J.D. from Monmouth to Macomb and catch up on life.  Then I came home and watched basketball all day and night.  I guess I did watch a little volleyball too.  Today, I'm going to again watch a lot of basketball, but before that, I hope to get some things crossed off the to-do list.  I think I'll try to run over to the farm and see Darren and Mom and Dad too.  I also need to remember that I'm meeting with Arda for a tutoring session.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 26
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for next FRW in April

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• watch IM videos and catch up (refresh motivation)
• find drivers license
• get daily check sheet to Mrs. Hasson
• write out beginning of the month bills and mail
• make a new seating chart for week of return
• enter FRW scores for March 24
• enter journal blogger scores for March 26
• enter essay scores
• resolve pay issue for VB at Rock Island
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• pay off Chase's medical bill 
• get camper out of storage - fill LP tanks, replace spare tire, get water lines ready
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• Arda Meeting Sunday, 11:30 a.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Mon. 3-29 at VB at West Central
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Thurs. 4-1 VB 5 p.m. at RHS with Ebersole
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Wed. 4-14 VB 5 p.m. at Geneseo with Braeden
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Saturday, March 27

7:03 a.m. - Weather is crappy again...cold and rainy - not exactly the beautiful weather hoped for during the first day of Spring Break.  On the other hand, I'm in a car to Macomb and back for a big portion of the day anyway, so I guess it doesn't really matter.  I'm heading to a softball clinic, which isn't awful, but these clinics usually take longer than I normally want to commit.  I'll get to ride down with Jason, though, part of the way, so that will be nice.  I've got a cold, though, and I wish I could get over it.  No, I haven't gone and gotten a COVID test because I really didn't see the point.  I don't have a fever, and my symptoms are like every other cold I've ever experienced.  I hope to watch some basketball when I get home.  I hear that the Harrison family and Southwell family are coming over to color Easter eggs.  I'm not sure how long they are staying.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 26
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for next FRW in April

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• get daily check sheet to Mrs. Hasson
• softball meeting/clinic in Macomb
• meet Jason in Monmouth at 8:15 a.m.
• write out beginning of the month bills and mail
• make a new seating chart for week of return
• enter FRW scores for March 24
• enter journal blogger scores for March 26
• enter essay scores
• resolve pay issue for VB at Rock Island
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• pay off Chase's medical bill 
• get camper out of storage - fill LP tanks, replace spare tire, get water lines ready
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• Arda Meeting Sunday, 11:30 a.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Mon. 3-29 at VB at West Central
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Thurs. 4-1 VB 5 p.m. at RHS with Ebersole
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Wed. 4-14 VB 5 p.m. at Geneseo with Braeden
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

3-26 - 7th Period

I'm a little frustrated that I forgot to even mention Easter in any other of the class periods.  It is a little weird thinking about holidays this past year, though.  With past holidays, I've heard medical experts and leaders trying to get families to avoid family gatherings, and not to make this bleak weather day any bleaker, but now I'm hearing growing concerns of a recent surge in positive COVID cases.  Apparently the St. Patrick's Day gatherings and states beginning to ease restrictions has got some of the experts concerned.  And wasn't it Spring Break last year where we were just beginning to start hearing about the first COVID cases starting to spread here in the United States, and by the time our 2020 Spring Break was done, we were in full-fledge lockdown mode.  Oh my goodness...I sure hope that when we depart today, we don't go back to anything near that scenario.  

My parents have been vaccinated, so my guess is that we will have our first holiday gathering with them that we have had in the past year.  Throughout the day, I've heard of students who will be visiting grandparents.  Maybe this Spring Break all of us can perhaps see grandparents or relatives we haven't seen for awhile.  I know some ham and mash potatoes sounds good right now.

Kenzie's girls and new son are coming over to our house tonight.  So it's Jay playing with toys and dolls and chasing kids.  And maybe if I'm lucky I'll get to hold little Luke for awhile.  I think Amber and I are going to go out for supper, but don't worry Jake, there won't be any partying.

Taylor Murley, Kaelyn Causemaker, 

3-26 4th Period

Don't worry Cole, no one else today has expressed that yesterday's Illinois Science Assessment was all that enjoyable.  So it's okay if you happen to express less than enjoyment.

My Spring Break plans will hopefully get me out somewhere on some hikes.  Weather permitting maybe I'll head out to Loud Thunder or perhaps into Black Hawk State Park.  I had considered doing some camping at Loud Thunder since this is opening weekend for camping, but all of the sites have already been reserved by others.  I was a little surprised at this, but then again, I'm sure I'm not the only one that is ready to break the camper out of storage and get away a little.  I don't know, though, that I want to go camping if the temps overnight are going to reach down below the 30 degree mark.  Oh, we do have a heater in the JayFlight, but if the temps get that low, it's just not a whole lot of fun to be camping but being mostly inside the camper.  If I'm going to be inside, I might has well just stay home.  On the other hand, maybe the forecast will change and warmer temps will arrive later in the week.  If that's the case, maybe we could run over to West Lake Park or Scott County park and get a night or two in.

This will be my first experience at opening up the camper.  After pulling it out of my parent's farm, I'm going to need to flush the water lines out of the winter anti-freeze, and then I'll need to get all the lines opened correctly to the water tanks and water heater.  I don't think that's a real hard process.  I'll probably just do the YouTube thing and figure it out.  Maybe Mr. Strachan will be available to assist me, as he is my nearby go-to guy when it comes to camper experiences.

Tyler Frere, Connor Shaffer, Logan Watson, 

3-26 1st Period

Well I didn't take the Illinois Science Assessment, so I will rely on your feedback for that.  My Spring Break really isn't going to be all that exciting, so I'm not sure if that's a good topic.  I do plan on getting the camper out of storage, but I doubt we will do any camping.  I also will likely be opening up the pool, but I really don't want to do that because once it's opened, then I have to take care of the dang thing until Fall.  I'll be doing some officiating of volleyball over Spring Break, even though tomorrow I'm actually attending a softball umpiring clinic in Macomb with Erin's dad.

I hope for students that the film Smoke Signals makes Indigenous Americans more real, more human.  I know that sounds crazy, but keep in mind the main bad thing that we've heard through our exploration of slave narratives and Indigenous narratives, and that bad thing is that some humans have a weakness in believing other humans are less than humans.  Some humans see others as less, as not as worthy, and I hope all of you recognize that no human is less than the other.  Despite the many differences that exists between different cultures and races and everything else, there are deeper and more important similarities.  Whether you are watching a documentary, a film, or reading a book about another human, I hope that compassion and empathy build in you.  A deeper understanding of others is a HUGE reason for literature and stories.  

Brayden Deem, Cole McCabe, 

3-26 2nd Period

readers - Kierney, Morgan, 

3-26 3rd Period

I'm sorry to hear about this morning's accident, but I'm glad everyone is okay.  It's a definite fear of parents to have their children driving.  Even now when my children who have long since graduated from high school head home from my house, I ask them to send me a text that they made it home okay.  And I tell them to drive safely as they are heading out the door.  We parents want you sons and daughters to enjoy the freedom and mobility of driving, but unfortunately we are periodically reminded of the damage and injury that occur when it comes to vehicles and accidents.  

It's another crummy weather day today, but maybe that's okay since we are inside.  I suppose it might be more difficult to have a beautiful, warm day outside and be stuck inside.  I'm hoping the weather does turn a little nicer because I went and picked up my bicycle from the repair shop yesterday.  Over the winter, I had this grand plan of purchasing some brake pads for it and change the pads and the adjustments myself.  So I bought the pads and started last weekend to give it a try.  I soon determined that this DIY project may not be good for my health. so I decided to scrap my plan and just take it to a professional.  A couple of trips to Geneseo and $63 for the work, and I'm good to go.  I flat out guarantee that the $63 was worth my potential frustration and/or any accident I would have gotten in had I installed the new brake pads incorrectly.

Wyatt Harby, Madyson Summy, Hannah Lee, 

Friday, March 26

6:27 a.m. - I've been looking for this day for awhile.  After today, it's a week off to recharge for the final weeks of the school year. Yesterday after school I went to Geneseo to pick up my bicycle and get a haircut.  Then I went and got a salad down at Shivers and Shakes since Amber was working - okay, I may have gotten a strawberry banana shake too.  Today, we are going to get a journal blog in and call it a day.  Oh, yesterday we had a staff meeting at school...I'm pretty much numb to anything I here - positive, negative, and everything in between.  I just don't believe anything I hear anymore...not that I don't trust people that say things...I just know that the next day or the next week or the next month my job will get harder some way or somehow or sometime, I just know that something else will be asked of me.  I just want to get to June 2 and away, so I can be done with the school year.  There are no games for the NCAA tournament today, which is a bummer, but I think that means Amber and I are going to go get some supper tonight, and then I think the Harrison crew is going to be here.  Tomorrow I have a softball clinic in Macomb, which is okay because it's suppose to be another rainy day tomorrow.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 26
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for next FRW in April

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• get daily check sheet to Mrs. Hasson
• enter journal/blogger sharing scores
• softball meeting/clinic in Macomb
• meet Jason in Monmouth at 8:15 a.m.
• write out beginning of the month bills and mail
• make a new seating chart for week of return
• enter FRW scores for March 24
• enter journal blogger scores for March 26
• enter essay scores
• resolve pay issue for VB at Rock Island
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• pay off Chase's medical bill 
• get camper out of storage - fill LP tanks, replace spare tire, get water lines ready
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• Arda Meeting Sunday, 11:30 a.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Sat. 3-27 Softball Meeting in Macomb
• Mon. 3-29 at VB at West Central
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Thurs. 4-1 VB 5 p.m. at RHS with Ebersole
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Wed. 4-14 VB 5 p.m. at Geneseo with Braeden
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (3/24)

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Thursday, March 25

6:35 a.m. - Two more days until Spring Break.  Today is going to be a long, boring day.  Basically I'm just babysitting overflow students in my room while my students complete the Illinois Science Assessment.  I will need to get a book from the library.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 25 - none
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - for Mar. 26
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed - for Mar. 26
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for next FRW in April

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Wed. 3-24 VB 6 p.m. at Cambridge with Shawn #63607
• sent email and updated IHSA
• resolve pay issue for VB at Rock Island
• get bike from B&B in Geneseo
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• pay off Chase's medical bill 
• get camper out of storage - fill LP tanks, replace spare tire, get water lines ready
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• make a decision about Training Path Presenter Series by March 29
• Arda Meeting Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Sat. 3-27 Softball Meeting in Macomb
• Mon. 3-29 at VB at West Central
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Thurs. 4-1 VB 5 p.m. at RHS with Ebersole
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (3/24)

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Wednesday, March 24

6:42 a.m. - I slept better last night and feel like I'm getting over this cold that I have, so that's a good thing.  I have a volleyball match tonight at Cambridge, but I get to ride with Shawn and work with him, which is good.  It would be nice if he and I could partner up in the future, so we could carpool to games.  Today is free read Wednesday, and we will be finishing up the film.  I think I'll show the film first and then just assign the FRW session.  The weather has been crummy this week -- colder and gray and damp.  I hope the weather is better next week.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 24
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - for Mar. 25
• also scheduled March 26
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed - for Mar. 25
• Also updated due date for Smoke Signals questions
• Also added blog entry assignment for March 26
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for Wed., March 24

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Wed. 3-24 VB 6 p.m. at Cambridge with Shawn #63607
• leave at 4:30? (45 min. drive)
• get bike from B&B in Geneseo
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• pay off Chase's medical bill 
• get camper out of storage - fill LP tanks, replace spare tire, get water lines ready
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• make a decision about Training Path Presenter Series by March 29
• Arda Meeting Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Sat. 3-27 Softball Meeting in Macomb
• Mon. 3-29 at VB at West Central
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Thurs. 4-1 VB 5 p.m. at RHS with Ebersole
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (3/24)

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Tuesday, March 23

6:29 a.m. - I survived another volleyball night last night - this time at Fulton.  That's a little farther than I want to drive, but it's not a hard drive, and while I will probably never feel comfortable working volleyball, any experience I get is good for me.  Tonight I have the night off before working two more volleyball nights this week on Wednesday and Thursday.  Yesterday at school, things were a bit chaotic as more remote learners returned, which caused more overflow students to be sent out of the classroom.  Yesterday I forgot to present my screen to first period, so that was a screw up.  So now with attendance to overflow rooms, spraying down desks, and remembering to activate the Google Meets recordings and presentation mode, each class period loses about 5-10 minutes on top of the already shortened schedule.  Survive and move on...that's my motto.  I'm not sure anyone really cares about the educational value of this school year...keep the buildings open somehow seems to be the top priority.  I did try to contact training path presenters to see about their interest in participating this year, and was surprised to get some interest back pretty quickly.  Maybe I'll be able to make a go of that activity after all.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 23
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - for Mar. 24
• also scheduled March 25 and March 26
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed - for Mar. 24
• Also updated due date for Smoke Signals questions
• Also added blog entry assignment for March 26
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for Wed., March 24

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Mon. 3-22 VB 5 p.m. at Fulton with Jodi Beswick #59339
• update IHSA and send email
• scores from Understanding Black Hawk
• get bike from B&B in Geneseo
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• make a decision about Training Path Presenter Series by March 29
• Arda Meeting Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Wed. 3-24 VB 6 p.m. at Cambridge with Shawn #63607
• leave at 4:30? (45 min. drive)
• Sat. 3-27 Softball Meeting in Macomb
• Mon. 3-29 at VB at West Central
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (3/23)

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Monday, March 22, 2021

6:10 a.m. -   More upsets occurred yesterday in the NCAA tourney.  I don't know if that makes me feel any worse or any better about the Illini losing.  It's called March Madness for a reason, I guess.  It's back to school for another week before Spring Break.  We have an essay we are working on in conjunction with a film I'm showing.  The film is a glimpse into the story of Indigenous Americans, and if I can get just one student to see others as "people" instead of "something other than people", then that's a good thing.  Last week a 21-year old white male went on a shooting spree in Georgia.  He entered three Asian spas and ended up killing eight people.  In the news there are reports of vigils and ceremonies to honor the victims and shed a light on Asian hate, but why does there have to be hate of any kind.  I think the answer is the same answer that has plagued humans forever...some humans don't see other humans as humans.  Some humans see others as animals or objects or tools.  It's sad.  So this week, maybe we'll accomplish more than just an essay...we'll see others as humans with the same problems and the same worries and the same struggles as everyone else.  I also have three volleyball matches this week, but nothing in the Western Big Six, so that's good.  All three are small school matches, which won't be as quick and explosive as the play in the Big Six.  On Thursday, the juniors complete the ISA (science assessment), so that's a wasted day.  So basically it's a four day week to get to Spring Break.  After this week, we'll be into April, and that means only a couple of months of the final home stretch to this eventful school year.  Today, some remote learners are returning, which will make today a mess.  I'm wondering how many of them will return to school for the rest of the school year.  

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 22
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - for Mar. 23
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed - for Mar. 23
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for Wed., March 24

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Mon. 3-22 VB 5 p.m. at Fulton with Jody
• update IHSA and send email
• scores from Understanding Black Hawk
• periods 1,2,3 finished
• get bike from B&B in Geneseo
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• make a decision about Training Path Presenter Series by March 29
• Arda Meeting Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Wed. 3-24 VB 6 p.m. at Cambridge with Shawn #63607
• Thurs. 3-25 VB at Sherrard with Chad Hamerlinck? #60579
• Sat. 3-27 Softball Meeting in Macomb
• Mon. 3-29 at VB at West Central
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (3/16)

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Sunday, March 21

9:37 a.m. - Yesterday, I was a COMPLETE couch/recliner basketball watching potato!  I ate too much; I didn't exercise at all; and I watch 10 hours straight of March Madness.  I did have a twinge of guilt, but I kept reminding myself that after this weekend, there won't be anymore weekends of complete laziness.  The yard will need mowed, officiating will occur, camping season will return, and many other things will occur that will require my attention and effort.  Today, may just be somewhat of a repeat, but I think I will try to get a little exercise in somehow and not eat as much.  I do need to meet with Arda today and assist him.  

1:31 p.m. - Illinois loses...ugh.  They didn't pay well...didn't look energized; didn't look prepared.  That was tough to watch.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 22
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - for Mar. 23
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed - for Mar. 23
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for Wed., March 24

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Enter FRW scores from March 17
• Enter scores from Understanding Black Hawk
• get bike from B&B in Geneseo
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• make a decision about Training Path Presenter Series by March 29
• Arda Meeting Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Mon. 3-22 VB 5 p.m. at Fulton with Ralph #76919
• Wed. 3-24 VB 6 p.m. at Cambridge with Shawn #63607
• Thurs. 3-25 VB at Sherrard with Chad Hamerlinck? #60579
• Sat. 3-27 Softball Meeting in Macomb
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (3/16)

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Friday, March 19

6:25 a.m. - So yesterday I dropped off my bike at B&B in Geneseo.  The rep looked at me like I was dumb, which I didn't really appreciate very much, but then again, perhaps I am dumb that I can't change the brakes on a bicycle.  Lloyd Trowers and I got through our matches at Geneseo, and I once again felt very awkward and uncomfortable officiating volleyball.  A couple things happened that I need to get clarification on, so I'm hoping to talk to Shawn today about it.  I got home last night to watch a little of the First Four of the NCAA Tourney, so that was nice.  Illinois plays today, and I hope to be able to watch it from school somehow.  It's Friday, and yesterday was an extra day to get some things done that I had been putting off, so that was welcomed.  Today, I hope to get some things done too, and then enjoy a weekend of watching March Madness.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 19
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - for Mar. 22
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed - for Mar. 22
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for Wed., March 24

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Make new seating charts for Week of March 22
• Enter FRW scores from March 17
• Enter scores from Understanding Black Hawk
• Decide on due date of essay assignment (before or after Spring Break)
• Thurs. 3-18 VB 5 p.m. at Geneseo with Lloyd #57617
• update IHSA site, send email
• find out answer to roster sheet question
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• make a decision about Training Path Presenter Series by March 29
• Arda Meeting Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Mon. 3-22 VB 5 p.m. at Fulton with Ralph
• Wed. 3-24 VB 6 p.m. at Cambridge with Shawn
• Thurs. 3-25 VB at Sherrard
• Sat. 3-27 Softball Meeting in Macomb
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (3/16)

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Thursday, March 18

7:36 a.m. - Apparently there was a widespread power outage early this morning, so school was canceled, and then the power came back on around 7:15 a.m. - THAT'S THE BEST SNOW DAY EVER - no school, no snow, and the power is back on!  We have to get Amber's car down to get it worked on, and I got the garbage out this morning, and I have volleyball games later on this evening.  Other than that....a day off is welcomed!

12:11 p.m. - I worked on some financial stuff....didn't exactly discover great news.  Then I tried to fix my bicycle...also didn't discover great news.  I'm going to take it to a shop in Geneseo, since I'm headed that way to officiate some volleyball later today anyway.  Maybe I'll get a haircut today too.  I also need to get some money out of my checking account for the Amber & Jay Savings game.  So on my day off, I haven't really gotten a lot accomplished yet, but I am working on some things.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 17
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - for Mar. 19
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed - for Mar. 19
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for Wed., March 24

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• make a decision about Training Path Presenter Series by March 29
• Arda Meeting Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.
• Check gmail messages.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Thurs. 3-18 VB 5 p.m. at Geneseo with Lloyd #57617
• Mon. 3-22 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Wed. 3-24 VB 6 p.m. at Cambridge with Shawn
• Thurs. 3-25 VB at Sherrard
• Sat. 3-27 Softball Meeting in Macomb
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (3/16)

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Wednesday, March 17

6:24 a.m. - Happy St. Patrick's Day and Free Read Wednesday and Stimulus Check Day.  Last night's volleyball match at Rock Island was really shaky.  I'm definitely not comfortable and not ready for WB6 volleyball.  Ugh.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 17
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - for Mar. 18
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed - for Mar. 18
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for Wed., March 24

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Tues. 3-16 VB 5 p.m. at Rock Island with Bradley Ebersole
• update IHSA and send email
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• make a decision about Training Path Presenter Series by March 29
• Arda Meeting Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.
• Check gmail messages.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Thurs. 3-18 VB 5 p.m. at Geneseo with Lloyd
• Mon. 3-22 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Wed. 3-24 VB 6 p.m. at Cambridge with Shawn
• Thurs. 3-25 VB at Sherrard
• Sat. 3-27 Softball Meeting in Macomb
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (3/16)

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Tuesday, March 16

6:20 a.m. - My leg is feeling much better since basically shutting down exercise for the past three days.  I think I'll stretch a little this morning and maybe just lift a little light weight to see how that goes.  Tonight I have my first volleyball officiating night, but there isn't near as much exercise to volleyball officiating.  I tried to watch a volleyball training video last night and made a little progress trying to understand illegal alignment, but I still don't really get it.  I understand what I need to see, but I just don't see it yet.  I also don't understand the whole reporting numbers thing.  I'll get through it, but I'm just not a varsity level volleyball official, and I really don't have a burning desire to be one.  I've never worked with the guy I'm scheduled to work with tonight, so he'll just have to live with my mediocrity; everyone else I'm currently scheduled to work with at least knows me.  Yesterday at school I only had to do the "overflow thing" with two class periods; I'll wait until next week to see if I'm able to maintain that or more students will be returning to school.  Today, I'm introducing our next writing assignment, which I'm sure will be thrilling for the students.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 16
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - for Mar. 17
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed - for Mar. 17
• post Smoke Signals Understanding Questions to Classroom
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for Wed., March 17

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• figure out new insurance notices I received
• get 11/26 and 12/17 blocks off my arbiter page
• register for USSSA softball
• renew my teaching license - Beginning April 1
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• make a decision about Training Path Presenter Series by March 29
• Arda Meeting Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.
• Check gmail messages.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Tues. 3-16 VB 5 p.m. at Rock Island with Bradley Ebersole
• Thurs. 3-18 VB 5 p.m. at Geneseo with Lloyd
• Mon. 3-22 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Wed. 3-24 VB 6 p.m. at Cambridge with Shawn
• Thurs. 3-25 VB at Sherrard
• Sat. 3-27 Softball Meeting in Macomb
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (3/16)

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide

Monday, March 15

6:26 a.m. - Well, the snow day from school isn't going to happen.  We are going to get some snow, but right now it's a cold rain.  So the weather to start the week isn't going to be much fun, but it looks like sunny and temps in the 50's this weekend.  It is pay day today, so that helps out this Monday.  And yesterday, the Illini won the Big Ten Basketball Tournament, so I'm still riding on the happiness from yesterday.  The game went into overtime, and those pesky Ohio State Buckeyes put up a valiant fight.  The NCAA Tournament now begins later this week.  No volleyball for me today, so I get one more day off.  I completely shut down myself from any exercise yesterday, and my leg feels better for it.  I may try to walk a little on the treadmill downstairs if I'm interested, or maybe I'll just shut down everything again.  Today at school we take a look at Black Hawk.  I'm always amazed how his story seems so unknown to most of the students, even though most of them have lived in this area all of their lives.  Today is also the first official day of "overflow" status, which should be nice and messy.  Any students beyond eight will be sent either to my back storage room area or to the library.  This is being done to reduce the number of students who may be contact traced into quarantine should a positive COVID result occur from a student in a particular classroom.  As staff, we are being told this isn't about sports, BUT IT'S TOTALLY ABOUT SPORTS.  Many of our students, parents, and coaches want to minimize the risk to an athlete's opportunity to participate in sports, so they are voluntarily electing to be a remote learner.  This decision to go to "overflow" rooms doesn't eliminate the risk, so I still anticipate these same students choosing to go fully remote.  And I can't say that I blame them.  Attendance in the live class isn't required, and teachers have to post a recording of the live class, and teachers have to give the remote students an opportunity to complete the work, so if I'm a teenager, and I can stay home, watch a recording of the class whenever I get up, have time to complete the work, and still be eligible to go to school for practices and games, what's the incentive of getting up to participate in the livestream with my classmates?  I just want to get through the school year.

Things to do for school

• Daily
• edit today's agenda on the Stream with recorded class session - for Mar. 15
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - for Mar. 16
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom as needed - for Mar. 16
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades
• schedule FRW assignment for Wed., March 17

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• create and schedule next writing assignment with Smoke Signals
• figure out new insurance notices I received
• get 11/26 and 12/17 blocks off my arbiter page
• renew my teaching license
• make sure I get reimbursed from Northern Illinois Health Plan
• write out bills - medical and NW Mutual and send
• write out IEA payment and send
• enter scores over Native American Voices passages - due Monday
• make a decision about Training Path Presenter Series by March 29
• Arda Meeting Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things.
• Listen to IF podcasts
• fix the green door.
• Check gmail messages.

Upcoming Spring EVENTS - volleyball, JH basketball, softball

• Tues. 3-16 VB 5 p.m. at Rock Island with Bradley Ebersole
• Thurs. 3-18 VB 5 p.m. at Geneseo with Lloyd
• Mon. 3-22 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Wed. 3-24 VB 6 p.m. at Cambridge with Shawn
• Thurs. 3-25 VB at Sherrard
• Sat. 3-27 Softball Meeting in Macomb
• Tues. 3-30 VB 5 p.m. at UT with Sergio
• Tues. 4-6 VB at Cambridge with Shawn?
• Thurs. 4-8 VB at Fulton with Ralph
• Mon. 4-12 5 p.m at AlWood JHGBK with Marcus
• Tues. 4-13 VB at Rockridge
• Thurs. 4-15 VB at Monmouth with Braeden?
• Mon. 4-19 5:30 p.m. JHGBK at MerCo 
• Tues. 4-20 5 p.m. VB at UT with Smola
• Wed. 4-21 - SB at Sherrard with Jason
• Thurs. 4-22 5 p.m. VB at UT with Chet

Things that I NOW think about with the coronavirus. (3/15)

Holy Spirit...

Help me have... 

    a pure heart, that I may see;
    a humble heart, that I may hear;
    a heart of love, that I may serve;
    a heart of faith, that I may abide