SUPERINTENDENTS' MESSAGES 2013

MARCH 21, 2013 - NCDPI WEB HIGHLIGHTS

2013 Invitation to Submit Textbooks Now Online
The 2013 invitation to submit textbooks for evaluation and adoption in North Carolina’s schools is available online at http://www.ncpublicschools.org/textbook/publishers/invitation/. This document provides an overview of the process for submitting, evaluating and adopting textbooks in selected categories. Also included in the invitation are the forms, checklists and schedule for the 2013-14 adoption process.

Constructed Response Items for Common Exams Now Available
The NCDPI recently released constructed response items from the fall 2012 administration of the NC Common Exams. These test items may be used by school systems to familiarize students with constructed response items on the Common Exams. To view the constructed responses by subject area, please visit http://www.ncpublicschools.org/effectiveness-model/measures/released-items/.

EVAAS Resource Page New on the Web
A new page has been added to the EVAAS website to help educators understand the reports and other information produced by EVAAS. Material available on the Resources page includes help files, teacher notifications for releases for value-added reports and evaluation dashboards, overviews and more. Please visit http://www.ncpublicschools.org/effectiveness-model/evaas/resources/ to review the documents and links to other information related to EVAAS.

Data Research and Federal Policy Division Launches New Website
The Data Research and Federal Policy division recently launched a new website that provides one-stop access to agency sections responsible for providing data and researching findings to internal and external stakeholders of the NCDPI. Links to Academic Education Research, CEDARS, the Data Calendar and the Data Management Group, North Carolina P-20W Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems and the Southeastern Education Data Exchanges are available at http://www.ncpublicschools.org/drfpolicy/.

Exceptional Children Division Announces Dates for 2013 Conference
The Exceptional Children division has announced that the 63rd Conference on Exceptional Children is scheduled for Nov. 20-22 in Greensboro. To view the “Save the Date” announcement, please visit http://ec.ncpublicschools.gov/conferences-profdev/annual-conference. Visitors are encouraged to check the website often as new information is posted regularly.

Race to the Top Updates Highlight Latest Program News
Race to the Top Weekly Updates feature the latest program information for curriculum, professional development and more. The update for March 13 is available at http://www.ncpublicschools.org/rttt/updates/2013. If you know individuals who would like to receive the updates, please send their email addresses to Michael Yarbrough, RttT communications specialist, at michael.yarbrough@dpi.nc.gov.

NC READY Comes to Facebook
Check out the latest information about the READY initiative, view photos and join the conversation about preparing North Carolina’s K-12 students for success and to elevate teaching and learning. You can find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NCReadyInitiative .

Featured Publications at NCDPI

To order, please call 800.663.1250 or visit Publication Sales on the web at http://www.ncpublicschools.org/publications/.

Formative Instructional & Assessments Tasks for Math Common Core for Kindergarten, First and Second Grades
In response to North Carolina legislative and State Board requirements, the NCDPI provides local school districts with state-developed assessments to be implemented in kindergarten, first and second grades. These notebook-ready booklets contain assessment tasks that are aligned to the Common Core State Standards. They are designed for use in a formative manner to guide instruction. All Blackline Masters and Student Forms are included. The booklets also contain copies of the Kindergarten, First and Second Grades Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, assessment manuals and record keeping forms.

Formative Instructional & Assessments Tasks for Math Common Core (Kindergarten)
MA191, 2013, $13

Formative Instructional & Assessments Tasks for Math Common Core (First Grade)
MA192, 2013, $15

Formative Instructional & Assessments Tasks for Math Common Core (Second Grade)
MA193, 2013, $15

Science Essential Standards Posters
K-5 Science Essential Standards Posters Poster set containing the NC Science Essential Standards for K-5 science based on the three domains - Earth Science, Life Science and Physical Science (three - poster set; each poster measures 18" X 24").
SC151, 2013, $8

6-8 Science Essential Standards Posters
Poster set containing the NC Science Essential Standards for 6-8 science based on the three domains - Earth Science, Life Science and Physical Science (three - poster set; each poster measures 18" X 24").
SC152, 2013, $8

9-12 Science Essential Standards Posters
Poster set containing the NC Science Essential Standards for 9-12 science based on the three domains - Earth Science, Life Science and Physical Science (five - poster set; each poster measures 12" X 18").
SC153, 2013, $5

Featured Certificates

Certificate of Honor
Students like to be recognized for their academic achievements. Show them how much you value their efforts by presenting a Certificate of Honor award. The certificate is designed to recognize students who made the honor roll. (100 certificates per pack)
A-3, 2005, $10

Certificate of Promotion - Elementary to Middle School
A promotion from elementary school to middle school is an exciting event for students and their parents. Recognize students for achieving this special milestone by presenting a Certificate of Promotion. The certificate is specifically designed for students who are moving from elementary to middle school. (100 certificates per pack)
A-2E, 2005, $10