■  Augsburg Citizen Educator (ACE) News:  ACE has five officer positions open for the 2017-2018 school year. An email vote will take place next Thursday (4/20) and will be open until Tuesday (4/25).

The board meets once a month. Board members are expected to attend meetings and participate in events as available.

The board positions available are as follows:

• Logistics Officer
• Communications Officer
• Finance Officer
• Events Officer
• Philanthropy Officer

If you are not on our email list and would like to join ACE and/or receive notifications of our elections, events, and service projects, please email a request to <nesbitk@augsburg.edu>.

■  Augsburg Citizen Educators (ACE) on Facebook: If you want to know about upcoming ACE events, affiliations, and news in the education world, like their page at: <https://www.facebook.com/augsburgcitizeneducators/>.

■  Special Ed. Openings in High-Diversity School: Mid-state Education District (Onamia, Minn.) is looking for special education staff. For more information, go to: <http://www.midstate.k12.mn.us/page/2699?category=Mid-State+Education+District>.

■  Minnesota Indian Teacher Training Partnership Grant: In an effort to increase the number of American Indian teachers in the state of Minnesota, Augsburg College has been the recipient a grant (Minnesota Indian Teacher Training Partnership Grant) from the state to assist in the costs of a college education for American Indian Students majoring in (PreK, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education). This grant allows Augsburg College to award financial assistance to American Indian students in the education program who will become licensed teachers (in both the undergraduate and graduate programs).

The grant program is currently seeking students who meet the eligibility criteria: (1) documentation of 1/4 or more American Indian Blood Quantum and/or Enrollment in Federally recognized tribe; (2) enrollment/acceptance into our Augsburg College Education Department/Courses; and (3) have financial need per our financial aid office/policies.

There are funds available now. If you should meet the criteria’s or have questions about your eligibility, please contact Jennifer Simon at <simonj@augsburg.edu> or 612-330-1144.

■  Free Summer NES Essential Skills Prep: The EAST Program along with the Education Department will be providing FREE overview sessions to prepare for the essential skills exam in reading and writing. There is no fee for the sessions, but registration is required. The sessions are open to all teacher candidates. Teacher candidates of color and Native American teacher candidates are strongly encouraged to attend.

Reading and Writing Test Sessions, dates, times and location (attend all):

INTENSIVE MATHEMATICS REVIEW SESSIONS

The overview sessions are a refresher to prepare for the essential skills exam in math. There is no fee for the sessions, but registration is required.

Register here: https://goo.gl/r3IbQI

SESSIONS, DATES, TIMES AND LOCATION

5 Tuesdays May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30	4:30 to 6:30 p.m.	Science Building 212
5 Thursdays May 4, 11, 18, 25, June 1	4:30 to 6:30 p.m.	Science Building 212

READING AND WRITING SESSIONS

The sessions prepare students for the essential skills exam in reading and writing. Candidates may choose to attend the reading and/or writing sessions. There is no fee for the sessions, but registration is required.

Register here: https://goo.gl/Q8cnVK

SESSIONS, DATES, TIMES AND LOCATION

Reading
Tuesdays & Thursdays June 13, 15, 20, 22	4:00-6:00 p.m.	Science Building 212

Writing
Tuesdays & Thursdays June 27, 29, July 11, 13	4:00-6:00 p.m.	Science Building 212

Submitting news to Augsburg:

• To the Education Department News: Send your news to Joseph Erickson at C.B. 312 or erickson-AT-augsburg.edu.
• To the Augsburg Now published by the Augsburg College Office of Public Relations and Communication: Send your news to C.B. 145 or now@augsburg.edu.
• To the daily A-Mail electronic newsletter: Go to AugNet Home Page and login. Then click on “Submit News and Announcements” link.

Connecting with Alumni and Friends:

Augsburg College provides several ways to stay connected with Alumni and friends. Here are some links to get you started:

• Alumni Information Update: Submit news and contact information changes to the college’s Alumni Office.
• TC2 New Teachers’ Blog

Other Sources of News for K-12 Teachers:

Here are links to some of the very best online news sources for K-12 teachers:

• Education Week
• Teacher Magazine
• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (also, subscribe to ASCD SmartBrief, a daily email news resource delivered right to your inbox).

■  Opportunity from The Social Justice Education Movement: Movie Talk Back: Fear and Learning at Hoover Elementary. You are invited to a free screening of Laura Angelica Simón’s 1997 film, “Fear and Learning at Hoover Elementary.” Read more about “Fear and Learning” here <http://www.pbs.org/pov/fearandlearning/film-description/>

Thursday April 13th
5:30-7:30 pm (childcare provided)
MFT Office, 67 8th Ave NE
Screening: 5:30-6:30
Discussion: 6:30-7:30

For more information, contact The Social Justice Education Movement at: <sjemiww@gmail.com>.

■  Youth Education and Meals Coordinator: Lead weekly cooking and gardening classes with K-8 youth at the Brian Coyle Center! Prepare and serve daily lunch with the same youth using recovered dining hall food and fresh produce. Key skills: flexibility, creativity, on-the-spot thinking, attention to detail, organization and documentation, and an ability to build rapport with diverse youth. Comfort in a kitchen is helpful but can be learned on the job!

The job description may be found at <http://www.augsburg.edu/campuskitchen/schedule/internships/>.

■  Augsburg Citizen Educators on Facebook: If you want to know about upcoming ACE events, affiliations, and news in the education world, like their page at: <https://www.facebook.com/augsburgcitizeneducators/>.

■  Minnesota Indian Teacher Training Partnership Grant: In an effort to increase the number of American Indian teachers in the state of Minnesota, Augsburg College has been the recipient a grant (Minnesota Indian Teacher Training Partnership Grant) from the state to assist in the costs of a college education for American Indian Students majoring in (PreK, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education). This grant allows Augsburg College to award financial assistance to American Indian students in the education program who will become licensed teachers (in both the undergraduate and graduate programs).

The grant program is currently seeking students who meet the eligibility criteria: (1) documentation of 1/4 or more American Indian Blood Quantum and/or Enrollment in Federally recognized tribe; (2) enrollment/acceptance into our Augsburg College Education Department/Courses; and (3) have financial need per our financial aid office/policies.

There are funds available now. If you should meet the criteria’s or have questions about your eligibility, please contact Jennifer Simon at <simonj@augsburg.edu> or 612-330-1144.

■  Two Opportunities With the Minnesota Literacy Council: Summer Reads VISTA | Students can apply to be a VISTA tutor and help change a child’s life this summer with Summer Reads. VISTAs tutor children (K-3) from low income backgrounds in reading, writing and oral language skills. He/she will serve in the metro Twin Cities area full-time for 8 weeks from June 12 – August 6 in schools or community organizations, in most Summer Reads locations. Students can also apply to any greater MN sites: Aitkin, Barnum, Caledonia, Duluth, Ely, Fairmont, Kerkhoven, Morris and Northfield (June 5-July 30 in Kerkhoven, Ely and Morris).

Summer Reads Outreach Specialist | This position supports the 78 Summer Reads VISTA tutors across the state by helping with training, peer support and resource-sharing and evaluation, in addition to serving at a tutoring site. Outreach Specialist serves for 10 weeks from June 1 – August 9.

Candidates for both positions will need to be at least 18 years of age by June 1st (for Outreach Specialist) or June 12th (for VISTA tutor), and be a U.S citizens or legal permanent resident. No prior educational degree required.

To apply, visit <http://www.mnliteracy.org>. Applications reviewed and positions are offered on a rolling basis until filled. Final Deadline: April 30th.

■  FrogTutoring: FrogTutoring is an educational technology platform that facilitates 1-on-1 private tutoring offering the full range of academic courses and test prep. They are looking to hire college-age tutors and mentors. To apply or to learn more, go to: <http://frogtutoring.com>.

■  Free NES Essential Skills Prep: The EAST Program along with the Education Department will be providing FREE overview sessions to prepare for the essential skills exam in reading and writing. There is no fee for the sessions, but registration is required. The sessions are open to all teacher candidates. Teacher candidates of color and Native American teacher candidates are strongly encouraged to attend. 

Reading and Writing Test Sessions, dates, times and location (attend all): 

Intensive Writing  Saturday, April 8	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104

Register Here: https://goo.gl/xb4MVO

Submitting news to Augsburg:

• To the Education Department News: Send your news to Joseph Erickson at C.B. 312 or erickson-AT-augsburg.edu.
• To the Augsburg Now published by the Augsburg College Office of Public Relations and Communication: Send your news to C.B. 145 or now@augsburg.edu.
• To the daily A-Mail electronic newsletter: Go to AugNet Home Page and login. Then click on “Submit News and Announcements” link.

Connecting with Alumni and Friends:

Augsburg College provides several ways to stay connected with Alumni and friends. Here are some links to get you started:

• Alumni Information Update: Submit news and contact information changes to the college’s Alumni Office.
• TC2 New Teachers’ Blog

Other Sources of News for K-12 Teachers:

Here are links to some of the very best online news sources for K-12 teachers:

• Education Week
• Teacher Magazine
• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (also, subscribe to ASCD SmartBrief, a daily email news resource delivered right to your inbox).

■  The Education Department is pleased to announce that we are currently accepting applications from undergraduate students for scholarships to be awarded for the upcoming 2017-18 academic year. Any student interested in any of these scholarships is invited to send to Cheryl Sticha <sticha@augsburg.edu> their name, contact information (phone and email), undergrad or graduate status, GPA, declared or intended major, scholarships being applied for and a brief paragraph stating qualifications for each scholarship (see listing below) for which the student is applying. 

The deadline for all applications is 4:30 pm on Monday, 27 March 2017. 

• S. Luther and Carol B. Kleven Family Scholarship (1 scholarship of $936.00 for a junior or senior in Elementary Education.) Awarded annually to juniors and seniors majoring in elementary education, based upon academic achievement and financial need. Preference will be given to WEC or AU students. Established in 1990 by family and friends in memory of S. Luther Kleven ’50 and in honor of the Kleven family.
  
• Jim and Shelby Andress Education Scholarship (1 scholarship of $778.00 for a student in any class, but declared a major preference.) Awarded annually to a student of any class who is majoring in Education. The award is based upon financial need and a demonstrated, genuine love of students and a passion for teaching. Established in 1997 by Shelby (Gimse) Andress ’56, Golden Valley, Minn., and gifts in memory of her late husband, Jim ’51, to encourage competent, caring and principled young people to enter the field of education.
  
• Dr. Einar O. Johnson Scholarship (1 scholarship of $761.00 for a returning student in Education.) Awarded annually to one or more students interested in a career in education based upon financial need and academic accomplishment. Established in 1999 by Mary E. Johnson, family, friends, and colleagues in loving memory of Dr. Einar O. Johnson. The scholarship is renewable.
  
• John L. and Joan H. Ohlin Scholarship (1 scholarship of $340.00 for a student in any class, but declared a major preference.) Awarded annually to a student of any class who is majoring in Education, based upon suitable academic progress and financial need. Established in 1996 by Mrs. Joan H. Ohlin, Baxter, Minn., in loving memory of her late husband, John L. Ohlin ’57, and in tribute to his 38 years as a teacher.
  
• Elva B. Lovell Life Scholarship (1 scholarship of $768.00 for a student in any class, but declared a major preference.) Awarded annually to education students of any class who plan to teach. Awards are based upon academic achievement and financial need, with preference given to students who are black, older, or single parents. Established in 1991 by Mrs. Elva B. Lovell, Minneapolis, Minn., as an expression of her belief in diversity and literacy.
  
• Heidi Huber Scholarship (1 scholarship of $1,743.00 for a student in Education.) The Heidi Huber Scholarship was established in 2004 in loving memory of Heidi through the generosity of the Curtis L. Carlson Family Foundation, family and friends. Heidi passed away on April 1, 2002 at the age of 33, after a courageous battle with malignant melanoma. The Heidi Huber Scholarship is awarded to one or more students with demonstrated financial need, strong academic achievement, and dedication to the community. Preference will be given to students interested in a career in education.
  
• David Mathre Scholarship (1 scholarship of $300.00 for a student entering their year containing their student teaching semester.) Education Awarded annually to qualified full-time student(s) in need of financial assistance during the term in which they are student teaching.
  
• Pederson Samuelson Scholarship (1 scholarship of $492.00 for an upper class student.) Awarded annually, the Pederson SamuelsonScholarship is to provide financial assistance to an upper-class student of Scandinavian extraction who is majoring in Education, Nursing, Sociology, Social Work, or Youth/Campus/Family Ministry. The award is based upon maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or better.
  
• Debra Boss Montgomery Scholarship (2-3 scholarships totaling $13,735.00 for juniors or seniors in Elementary Education.) Awarded annually to junior or senior students majoring in elementary education, based on academic achievement and financial need. Preference will be given to those who have a special interest in children’s literature and who see their work in education as a Christian vocation. Established in 1991 by gifts from family and friends in memory of Debra Boss Montgomery, a 1975 graduate of Augsburg College.

■  Augsburg Citizen Educators on Facebook: If you want to know about upcoming ACE events, affiliations, and news in the education world, like their page at: <https://www.facebook.com/augsburgcitizeneducators/>.

■  Minnesota Indian Teacher Training Partnership Grant: In an effort to increase the number of American Indian teachers in the state of Minnesota, Augsburg College has been the recipient a grant (Minnesota Indian Teacher Training Partnership Grant) from the state to assist in the costs of a college education for American Indian Students majoring in (PreK, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education). This grant allows Augsburg College to award financial assistance to American Indian students in the education program who will become licensed teachers (in both the undergraduate and graduate programs).

The grant program is currently seeking students who meet the eligibility criteria: (1) documentation of 1/4 or more American Indian Blood Quantum and/or Enrollment in Federally recognized tribe; (2) enrollment/acceptance into our Augsburg College Education Department/Courses; and (3) have financial need per our financial aid office/policies.

There are funds available now. If you should meet the criteria’s or have questions about your eligibility, please contact Jennifer Simon at <simonj@augsburg.edu> or 612-330-1144.

■  Two Opportunities With the Minnesota Literacy Council: Summer Reads VISTA | Students can apply to be a VISTA tutor and help change a child’s life this summer with Summer Reads. VISTAs tutor children (K-3) from low income backgrounds in reading, writing and oral language skills. He/she will serve in the metro Twin Cities area full-time for 8 weeks from June 12 – August 6 in schools or community organizations, in most Summer Reads locations. Students can also apply to any greater MN sites: Aitkin, Barnum, Caledonia, Duluth, Ely, Fairmont, Kerkhoven, Morris and Northfield (June 5-July 30 in Kerkhoven, Ely and Morris).

Summer Reads Outreach Specialist | This position supports the 78 Summer Reads VISTA tutors across the state by helping with training, peer support and resource-sharing and evaluation, in addition to serving at a tutoring site. Outreach Specialist serve for 10 weeks from June 1 – August 9.

Candidates for both positions will need to be at least 18 years of age by June 1st (for Outreach Specialist) or June 12th (for VISTA tutor), and be a U.S citizens or legal permanent resident. No prior educational degree required.

To apply, visit <http://www.mnliteracy.org>. Applications reviewed and positions are offered on a rolling basis until filled. Final Deadline: April 30th.

■  Fund for the Public Interest: The Fund for the Public Interest will be holding information sessions and interviews on campus Monday 3/27 and Tuesday 3/28 and want to meet with any interested students while on campus.

To apply, please visit <http://www.SummerJobsThatMatter.org> or call 1-800-75-EARTH (1-800-753-2784).

■  FrogTutoring: FrogTutoring is an educational technology platform that facilitates 1-on-1 private tutoring offering the full range of academic courses and test prep.  They are looking to hire college-age tutors and mentors. To apply or to learn more, go to: <http://frogtutoring.com>.

■  Fridley Summer Youth Programs: The City of Fridley Recreation Department is looking for instructors for their Summer Youth Programs. The City of Fridley is in need of several leaders who love kids, love to play and are great role models.  There are a variety of positions available for the summer ranging from 20-40 hours per week, Monday – Friday (June 5 – August 25).  Leaders are responsible for planning and teaching a variety of activities for pre-school, elementary and/or middle school age youth.  Programs include: camps, instructional classes, playgrounds, special events, field trips and sports.  Pay rate is $10-13 per hour.

The application deadline is Friday, March 24. A group interview will take place on Saturday, April 1. For application info go to: < http://fridleymn.gov/329/Human-Resources>. The application can be dropped off or mailed to 6431 University Ave. NE, Fridley, MN 55432, faxed to 763-502-4976 or scanned in and e-mailed to <margo.numedahl@fridleymn.gov>.

For further information contact the Fridley Recreation Department at (763)572-3570 or <margo.numedahl@fridleymn.gov>.

■  MTLE Test Preparation Webinars: The Evaluation Systems group of Pearson is inviting Minnesota teacher candidates to participate in a webinar on how to prepare for the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE). Sessions will be held on:

• Monday, March 27, 2017, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., and
• Thursday, March 30, 2017, 3:00 p.m.  – 4:00 p.m. CST

Topics will include:

• How to create your MTLE Account and register for the test
• How to read your MTLE score report
• What test preparation resources are available
• How to prepare to retake a test

Information about how to access the webinar session of your choice is available on the MTLE program website at <https://www.mtle.nesinc.com>.

■  Free NES Essential Skills Prep: The EAST Program along with the Education Department will be providing FREE overview sessions to prepare for the essential skills exam in reading and writing. There is no fee for the sessions, but registration is required. The sessions are open to all teacher candidates. Teacher candidates of color and Native American teacher candidates are strongly encouraged to attend. 

Reading and Writing Test Sessions, dates, times and location (attend all): 

Intensive Reading Saturday, April 1	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Intensive Writing Saturday, April 8	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104

Register Here: https://goo.gl/xb4MVO

Submitting news to Augsburg:

• To the Education Department News: Send your news to Joseph Erickson at C.B. 312 or erickson-AT-augsburg.edu.
• To the Augsburg Now published by the Augsburg College Office of Public Relations and Communication: Send your news to C.B. 145 or now@augsburg.edu.
• To the daily A-Mail electronic newsletter: Go to AugNet Home Page and login. Then click on “Submit News and Announcements” link.

Connecting with Alumni and Friends:

Augsburg College provides several ways to stay connected with Alumni and friends. Here are some links to get you started:

• Alumni Information Update: Submit news and contact information changes to the college’s Alumni Office.
• TC2 New Teachers’ Blog

Other Sources of News for K-12 Teachers:

Here are links to some of the very best online news sources for K-12 teachers:

• Education Week
• Teacher Magazine
• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (also, subscribe to ASCD SmartBrief, a daily email news resource delivered right to your inbox).

■  History Day Judges Needed at Seward Montessori School: History Day at Seward School is Tuesday, March 7th.  Any amount of time would be appreciated—no experience necessary. Training will be provided. Judging will be from 4-7pm. Please email <mary.delander@mpls.k12.mn.us> or <jessica.grabe@mpls.k12.mn.us> with questions or to sign up.

■  MTLE Test Preparation Webinars: The Evaluation Systems group of Pearson is inviting Minnesota teacher candidates to participate in a webinar on how to prepare for the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE). Sessions will be held on:

Monday, March 27, 2017; 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., and

Thursday, March 30, 2017; 3:00 p.m.  – 4:00 p.m. CST

Topics will include:

• How to create your MTLE Account and register for the test
• How to read your MTLE score report
• What test preparation resources are available
• How to prepare to retake a test

Information about how to access the webinar session of your choice is available on the MTLE program website at <https://www.mtle.nesinc.com>.

■  Free NES Essential Skills Prep: The EAST Program along with the Education Department will be providing FREE overview sessions to prepare for the essential skills exam in math, reading, and writing. There is no fee for the sessions, but registration is required. The sessions are open to all teacher candidates. Teacher candidates of color and Native American teacher candidates are strongly encouraged to attend. 

Math Test Sessions, dates, times and location (attend all): 

Saturday, March 4	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Saturday, March 11	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Saturday, March 25	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104

Register Here: https://goo.gl/PzC8fd

Reading and Writing Test Sessions, dates, times and location (attend all): 

Intensive Reading Saturday, April 1	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Intensive Writing Saturday, April 8	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104

Register Here: https://goo.gl/xb4MVO

■ 2017 Urban Scholars Internships: Urban Scholars is a twelve-week paid internship in leadership and professional development providing students from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds with distinctive professional experience. This program is open to currently enrolled undergrad and grad students. The 2017 Urban Scholars application is available now until Saturday, February 18, 2017. For more information: <http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/civilrights/urbanscholars/>.

■ Several Updates Regarding Minnesota BOT Testing:

• The Minnesota Board of Teaching (BOT) no longer requires the ACT/SAT/GRE/Praxis I scores be taken within the past 10 years.  There is currently no time limit.  Keep in mind that the ACT scores must be the ACT Plus Writing which started around February 2005.

SAT recently changed the way they score their tests.  The new scores (and old) can be found on the link to the MN Board of Teaching website: <http://mn.gov/board-of-teaching/beaneducator/licensureexams/>.

•Minnesota Version of NES Now Available: As of August 30th, candidates are now able to sign up for the MN NES exam directly through the MTLE website by using this link:

<http://www.mtle.nesinc.com/PageView.aspx?f=HTML_FRAG/GENRB_AnnounceBasicSkills.html>

• The passing score for the MN NES is 520 for all three tests (Reading, Writing and Math):

MN NES EAS Subtest Passing Score (on a 400–600 point scale)

Reading=520

Writing=520

Mathematics=520

The test is exactly the same as the National NES exam, it’s just that MN candidates are given 15 extra minutes of time.  Because of the extra time, the score rating had to be adjusted.  The same number of correct raw scores needed to pass is exactly the same on both tests.  The National NES exam is based on a 100-300 point scale and the MN NES is based on a 400-600 point scale. The MN NES scores will be available to view in Results Analyzer starting with the October 7th reporting date.

NOTE:  If candidates sign up and take the National NES exam after August 30th, they will accept the scores if they met the minimum passing score:

NES EAS Subtest Passing Score (on a 100–300 point scale)

Reading=205

Writing=214

Mathematics=213

Also, if a candidate has taken and passed a portion of the MTLE basic skills, they need to register and complete ONLY the portion they have not passed of that basic skills test through NES.  They do not need to complete the whole series of Reading, Writing and Math over unless they did not pass all portions.

A listing of all licensure exam minimum passing scores can be found on the Board of Teaching website at:

<http://mn.gov/board-of-teaching/beaneducator/licensureexams/>

• Free study materials will be available for all MTLE test. There are also expanded test preparation products available for cost. Additional information can be found on their website using this link:

<http://www.mtle.nesinc.com/PageView.aspx?f=GEN_PreparationMaterials.html>

Pearson has also expanded their customer service hours to M-F 7AM-7PM and Sat from 8AM-4PM.

For questions and more information, please contact: Debby Odell, Educator Licensing, Supervisor <Debby.Odell@state.mn.us> or (651) 582-8522.

Submitting news to Augsburg:

• To the Education Department News: Send your news to Joseph Erickson at C.B. 312 or erickson-AT-augsburg.edu.
• To the Augsburg Now published by the Augsburg College Office of Public Relations and Communication: Send your news to C.B. 145 or now@augsburg.edu.
• To the daily A-Mail electronic newsletter: Go to AugNet Home Page and login. Then click on “Submit News and Announcements” link.

Connecting with Alumni and Friends:

Augsburg College provides several ways to stay connected with Alumni and friends. Here are some links to get you started:

• Alumni Information Update: Submit news and contact information changes to the college’s Alumni Office.
• TC2 New Teachers’ Blog

Other Sources of News for K-12 Teachers:

Here are links to some of the very best online news sources for K-12 teachers:

• Education Week
• Teacher Magazine
• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (also, subscribe to ASCD SmartBrief, a daily email news resource delivered right to your inbox).

■  Fall 2017 Student Teaching for Special Education Information Meeting: If you are planning on student teaching in Fall 2017 you must attend one of the following sessions:

• Monday, February 27 in Lindell Library, Room 202 from 5:30 – 7pm or
• Wednesday, March 1 in Lindell Library, Room 202 from 5:30 – 7pm

Questions? Contact Gretchen Guenter at <guenter@augsburg.edu>.

■  Free NES Essential Skills Prep: The EAST Program along with the Education Department will be providing FREE overview sessions to prepare for the essential skills exam in math, reading, and writing. There is no fee for the sessions, but registration is required. The sessions are open to all teacher candidates. Teacher candidates of color and Native American teacher candidates are strongly encouraged to attend.

Math Test Sessions, dates, times and location (attend all):

Saturday, February 18	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Saturday, February 25	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Saturday, March 4	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Saturday, March 11	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Saturday, March 25	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 10

Register Here: https://goo.gl/PzC8fd

Reading and Writing TestSessions, dates, times and location (attend all):

Intensive Reading Saturday, April 1	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Intensive Writing Saturday, April 8	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104

Register Here: https://goo.gl/xb4MVO

■  2017 Global Internships: One Heart Source is currently accepting applications for their 2017 Experiential Learning Programs in Cape Town, South Africa. They are offering a variety of 1, 2, and 4-week volunteer programs and internships for this summer. Application Deadline: February 17, 2016. Learn more here: <http://www.oneheartsource.org/>.

■  American Swedish Institute Workshop: The ASI in Minneapolis, is hosting a workshop for teachers titled “Scandinavia during World War II and the Holocaust.”  It will be held on Friday, March 3, 2017 from 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM. This workshop is geared towards Social Studies and English/Comm Arts pre-service teachers and is sponsored by the US Holocaust Museum, Tolerance MN, and the American Swedish Institute. Registration costs $35 and participants will receive lunch and a number of DVDs, CDs, books and teaching strategies from the sponsoring organizations. Registration can be found at <https://www.eventbrite.com/e/scandinavia-during-world-war-ii-and-the-holocaust-tickets-31257767825>.

■  Skyhawks Sport Minnesota Jobs: Skyhawks Sport Minnesota, a local youth sport camp company is looking for applicants for summer coaching and directing positions at their summer caps camps community park departments and school districts in the Twin Cities metro area; Rochester, and Hudson, WI.  Apply online at: <http://www.skyhawks.com/minnesota>.Group interviews/job tryouts will be held on Saturday, March 18th from 9am to 11am in Minnetonka.  Call Lisa M. Damon at 651-263-5159 (cell) for more information.

■  Camp Fire Minnesota Jobs: Camp Fire Minnesota is seeking applicants for a variety of summer job opportunities. More information may be found at: <http://campfiremn.org/Tanadoona/Staff/>.  For more information, contact Brent Cummins at (612) 246-3891.

■ 2017 Urban Scholars Internships: Urban Scholars is a twelve-week paid internship in leadership and professional development providing students from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds with distinctive professional experience. This program is open to currently enrolled undergrad and grad students. The 2017 Urban Scholars application is available now until Saturday, February 18, 2017. For more information: <http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/civilrights/urbanscholars/>.

■ Several Updates Regarding Minnesota BOT Testing:

• The Minnesota Board of Teaching (BOT) no longer requires the ACT/SAT/GRE/Praxis I scores be taken within the past 10 years.  There is currently no time limit.  Keep in mind that the ACT scores must be the ACT Plus Writing which started around February 2005.

SAT recently changed the way they score their tests.  The new scores (and old) can be found on the link to the MN Board of Teaching website: <http://mn.gov/board-of-teaching/beaneducator/licensureexams/>.

•Minnesota Version of NES Now Available: As of August 30th, candidates are now able to sign up for the MN NES exam directly through the MTLE website by using this link:

<http://www.mtle.nesinc.com/PageView.aspx?f=HTML_FRAG/GENRB_AnnounceBasicSkills.html>

• The passing score for the MN NES is 520 for all three tests (Reading, Writing and Math):

MN NES EAS Subtest Passing Score (on a 400–600 point scale)

Reading=520

Writing=520

Mathematics=520

The test is exactly the same as the National NES exam, it’s just that MN candidates are given 15 extra minutes of time.  Because of the extra time, the score rating had to be adjusted.  The same number of correct raw scores needed to pass is exactly the same on both tests.  The National NES exam is based on a 100-300 point scale and the MN NES is based on a 400-600 point scale. The MN NES scores will be available to view in Results Analyzer starting with the October 7th reporting date.

NOTE:  If candidates sign up and take the National NES exam after August 30th, they will accept the scores if they met the minimum passing score:

NES EAS Subtest Passing Score (on a 100–300 point scale)

Reading=205

Writing=214

Mathematics=213

Also, if a candidate has taken and passed a portion of the MTLE basic skills, they need to register and complete ONLY the portion they have not passed of that basic skills test through NES.  They do not need to complete the whole series of Reading, Writing and Math over unless they did not pass all portions.

A listing of all licensure exam minimum passing scores can be found on the Board of Teaching website at:

<http://mn.gov/board-of-teaching/beaneducator/licensureexams/>

• Free study materials will be available for all MTLE test. There are also expanded test preparation products available for cost. Additional information can be found on their website using this link:

<http://www.mtle.nesinc.com/PageView.aspx?f=GEN_PreparationMaterials.html>

Pearson has also expanded their customer service hours to M-F 7AM-7PM and Sat from 8AM-4PM.

For questions and more information, please contact: Debby Odell, Educator Licensing, Supervisor <Debby.Odell@state.mn.us> or (651) 582-8522.

Submitting news to Augsburg:

• To the Education Department News: Send your news to Joseph Erickson at C.B. 312 or erickson-AT-augsburg.edu.
• To the Augsburg Now published by the Augsburg College Office of Public Relations and Communication: Send your news to C.B. 145 or now@augsburg.edu.
• To the daily A-Mail electronic newsletter: Go to AugNet Home Page and login. Then click on “Submit News and Announcements” link.

Connecting with Alumni and Friends:

Augsburg College provides several ways to stay connected with Alumni and friends. Here are some links to get you started:

• Alumni Information Update: Submit news and contact information changes to the college’s Alumni Office.
• TC2 New Teachers’ Blog

Other Sources of News for K-12 Teachers:

Here are links to some of the very best online news sources for K-12 teachers:

• Education Week
• Teacher Magazine
• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (also, subscribe to ASCD SmartBrief, a daily email news resource delivered right to your inbox).

■  Fall 2017 Student Teaching for Special Education Information Meeting: If you are planning on student teaching in Fall 2017 you must attend one of the following sessions:

• Monday, February 27 in Lindell Library room 202 from 5:30 – 7pm or
• Wednesday, March 1 in Riverside Room in Christensen Center from 5:30 – 7pm

Questions? Contact Gretchen Guenter at <guenter@augsburg.edu>.

■  Free NES Essential Skills Prep: The EAST Program along with the Education Department will be providing FREE overview sessions to prepare for the essential skills exam in math, reading, and writing. There is no fee for the sessions, but registration is required. The sessions are open to all teacher candidates. Teacher candidates of color and Native American teacher candidates are strongly encouraged to attend. 

Math Test Sessions, dates, times and location (attend all): 

Saturday, February 11	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Saturday, February 18	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Saturday, February 25	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Saturday, March 4	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Saturday, March 11	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Saturday, March 25	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104

 Register Here: https://goo.gl/PzC8fd

Reading and Writing Test Sessions, dates, times and location (attend all): 

Intensive Reading, Saturday, April 1	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104
Intensive Writing, Saturday, April 8	9 a.m. to noon	Old Main Building 104

Register Here: https://goo.gl/xb4MVO

■  American Swedish Institute Workshop: The ASI in Minneapolis, is hosting a workshop for teachers titled “Scandinavia during World War II and the Holocaust.”  It will be held on Friday, March 3, 2017 from 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM. This workshop is geared towards Social Studies and English/Comm Arts pre-service teachers and is sponsored by the US Holocaust Museum, Tolerance MN, and the American Swedish Institute. Registration costs $35 and participants will receive lunch and a number of DVDs, CDs, books and teaching strategies from the sponsoring organizations. Registration can be found at <https://www.eventbrite.com/e/scandinavia-during-world-war-ii-and-the-holocaust-tickets-31257767825>.

■  Skyhawks Sport Minnesota Jobs: Skyhawks Sport Minnesota, a local youth sport camp company is looking for applicants for summer coaching and directing positions at their summer caps camps community park departments and school districts in the Twin Cities metro area; Rochester, and Hudson, WI.  Apply online at: <http://www.skyhawks.com/minnesota>.Group interviews/job tryouts will be held on Saturday, March 18th from 9am to 11am in Minnetonka.  Call Lisa M. Damon at 651-263-5159 (cell) for more information.

■  Camp Fire Minnesota Jobs: Camp Fire Minnesota is seeking applicants for a variety of summer job opportunities. More information may be found at: <http://campfiremn.org/Tanadoona/Staff/>.  For more information, contact Brent Cummins at (612) 246-3891.

■ Behavioral Dimensions Jobs: Behavioral Dimensions is looking to hire for applicants for their programs throughout the Twin Cities metro, St. Cloud, Alexandria, Duluth, & the Iron Range. Part time and full time positions are available. If you are interested, contact Jay O’Neill at 612-889-0278 or by email at< joneill@behavioraldimensions.com>.

■ 2017 Urban Scholars Internships: Urban Scholars is a twelve-week paid internship in leadership and professional development providing students from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds with distinctive professional experience. This program is open to currently enrolled undergrad and grad students. The 2017 Urban Scholars application is available now until Saturday, February 18, 2017. For more information: <http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/civilrights/urbanscholars/>.

■ Dodge Nature Center Internships: Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul, MN is offering a twelve-month learning opportunity for recent college graduates through their Naturalist Fellowship Program.  They are recruiting now for the next year’s cohort which will begin on September 5, 2017. More information and all application materials are available at : <http://www.dodgenaturecenter.org/ About/Career-Opportunities>. If you have any questions, contact Teresa Root at 651-455-4531.

■ Several Updates Regarding Minnesota BOT Testing:

• The Minnesota Board of Teaching (BOT) no longer requires the ACT/SAT/GRE/Praxis I scores be taken within the past 10 years.  There is currently no time limit.  Keep in mind that the ACT scores must be the ACT Plus Writing which started around February 2005.

SAT recently changed the way they score their tests.  The new scores (and old) can be found on the link to the MN Board of Teaching website: <http://mn.gov/board-of-teaching/beaneducator/licensureexams/>.

•Minnesota Version of NES Now Available: As of August 30th, candidates are now able to sign up for the MN NES exam directly through the MTLE website by using this link:

<http://www.mtle.nesinc.com/PageView.aspx?f=HTML_FRAG/GENRB_AnnounceBasicSkills.html>

• The passing score for the MN NES is 520 for all three tests (Reading, Writing and Math):

MN NES EAS Subtest Passing Score (on a 400–600 point scale)

Reading=520

Writing=520

Mathematics=520

The test is exactly the same as the National NES exam, it’s just that MN candidates are given 15 extra minutes of time.  Because of the extra time, the score rating had to be adjusted.  The same number of correct raw scores needed to pass is exactly the same on both tests.  The National NES exam is based on a 100-300 point scale and the MN NES is based on a 400-600 point scale. The MN NES scores will be available to view in Results Analyzer starting with the October 7th reporting date.

NOTE:  If candidates sign up and take the National NES exam after August 30th, they will accept the scores if they met the minimum passing score:

NES EAS Subtest Passing Score (on a 100–300 point scale)

Reading=205

Writing=214

Mathematics=213

Also, if a candidate has taken and passed a portion of the MTLE basic skills, they need to register and complete ONLY the portion they have not passed of that basic skills test through NES.  They do not need to complete the whole series of Reading, Writing and Math over unless they did not pass all portions.

A listing of all licensure exam minimum passing scores can be found on the Board of Teaching website at:

<http://mn.gov/board-of-teaching/beaneducator/licensureexams/>

• Free study materials will be available for all MTLE test. There are also expanded test preparation products available for cost. Additional information can be found on their website using this link:

<http://www.mtle.nesinc.com/PageView.aspx?f=GEN_PreparationMaterials.html>

Pearson has also expanded their customer service hours to M-F 7AM-7PM and Sat from 8AM-4PM.

For questions and more information, please contact: Debby Odell, Educator Licensing, Supervisor <Debby.Odell@state.mn.us> or (651) 582-8522.

Submitting news to Augsburg:

• To the Education Department News: Send your news to Joseph Erickson at C.B. 312 or erickson-AT-augsburg.edu.
• To the Augsburg Now published by the Augsburg College Office of Public Relations and Communication: Send your news to C.B. 145 or now@augsburg.edu.
• To the daily A-Mail electronic newsletter: Go to AugNet Home Page and login. Then click on “Submit News and Announcements” link.

Connecting with Alumni and Friends:

Augsburg College provides several ways to stay connected with Alumni and friends. Here are some links to get you started:

• Alumni Information Update: Submit news and contact information changes to the college’s Alumni Office.
• TC2 New Teachers’ Blog

Other Sources of News for K-12 Teachers:

Here are links to some of the very best online news sources for K-12 teachers:

• Education Week
• Teacher Magazine
• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (also, subscribe to ASCD SmartBrief, a daily email news resource delivered right to your inbox).