A+Letter+from+Your+Chair--please+read

= A Letter from Your Elementary Division Regional Chairman =

August 11, 2008

Welcome to the Region 20 Wiki page! This is definitley an excellent use of technology to help us as we help our students! Finally, we can swap ideas, share concerns, celebrate success, and just enjoy one another! I hope you refer to this page often; I know I will. It is so exciting to finally have a means to network and collaborate with such brilliant, like-minded people!

I would like to ask you to consider a few things before you use this space. Of course, you see the rules. __Those who violate the rules will not be allowed to access this page.__ I know we are all professionals, however, sometimes within our circle and within writing, we may forget what is appropriate for professional conversation. While this page is meant to be informal, fun, and encouraging, we must remain courteous and thoughtful. Please consider the rules carefully. I hope this page becomes a great resource to us all. I am tremendously enthusiastic about the possibilities. It belongs to all of us, so feel free to add to it wherever you see fit, just please follow the rules and be respectful. You are wonderful members! Thanks for being such a vital part of this organization!
 * “Respect the work of others.” ** As you begin using this space, please remember to respect others. While you may agree or disagree with someone, please be very cautious to change anything someone else has written. There may be times people post something asking for your changes. Treat the work of others with respect and consideration.
 * “NEVER refer to anyone by name (especially students and co-workers).” ** I think we are all kind, thoughtful, caring individuals, but make sure as you share issues and concerns that you would be comfortable if parents of your students or your administrators read whatever you write. This protects you as well your students or parents. And, once you write something, it then exists and you cannot take it back. We are professionals and particularly on this PROFESSIONAL page, we should behave as such. And, of course, there is Texas law regarding confidentiality of student information.
 * “Do not advertise in this space.” ** Please also understand that because this page is associated with TMEA and an educational //wikispace//, we cannot advertise for any individual or organization. This includes your own personal business, as well as wonderful musical events that have a cost. If you know of an event (which is charging a fee) from which we may benefit, you may post it in the “Upcoming Local Events” but only post the title of the event, location, time, date, fee, and contact person. We do not want this site to becoming a place for advertising. It is meant to educate, encourage, and inspire us.
 * “KEEP IT POSITIVE.” ** Please refrain from “griping”. We all need to vent sometimes, but this is not the place to bad-mouth //anyone// or //anything//. This space should remain positive and uplifting. If you need to gripe, please contact someone via e-mail or phone privately. Really think about what you write and whether you truly want everyone in our group to read it, or if it would be best for one other person to discuss the matter with you. **Keep things positive**. We all need to hear about your successes, inspirations, and funny stories. Tell us! And, when you need a pick-me-up, come to this page and read some of our encouraging stories and words; and know that you are not alone!

Tim McCormick Region 20 Elementary Chair