For Current Educators | Saturday Academy

Before Your Class

Select from the following:

Communicate with Saturday Academy in a timely, responsive way to schedule your class, and to identify supply and technology needs.
Prepare materials for your class including a class agenda.
Be in class 10 minutes early to welcome students, take attendance and check with families to see if a special pick-up form is needed for in-person classes.
Lead introductions and establish class norms.
Call absent students (if SA staff or a site coordinator are not present).
Facilitate a safe, fun, engaging class!
Wrap up each class with a roundtable story of the day, or highlights and lowlights. Invite students to help clean up the classroom and return the layout as found.
For in-person classes, ensure all students are picked up by authorized adults.
On the last day of class, leave time for class evaluations.
Adhere to all safety protocols.

New instructors are required to attend an orientation before their first class. We generally hold group orientations at the start of each term in January, April, June and September. Instructors who cannot attend the session must meet with a Classes team member for an alternate orientation.

All instructors are asked to participate in our Focus on Equity Professional Development. This is a self-guided web-based activity that will take approximately one hour. It comprises two videos, one short reading, and a short reflection activity about equity in education--specifically in your teaching practice.

Nuts & Bolts of teaching with Saturday Academy includes:

- Scheduling and class rosters

- Class Planning

- Class management, community building and safety

- Evaluations

Class description and agenda

Before your class, think through major topics that you plan to cover. In 2-4 sentences how would you communicate your class to a student? In first person, tell the student what they can expect to learn and do during your class. Why should they spend their valuable time with you? Hint, your class will be fun, engaging, and in-depth with a group of like-minded peers!

Use the attached form to prepare a 1 page class agenda which Saturday Academy will then share with families and students in advance of class with pertinent info including video conference links for online classes. Keep topics general as you want to leave plenty of room to pivot to student's curiosity at any time during class, but you'll need to stick to the expectations you set for students in your description!

Class Outline - Fillable Form.pdf

Download Class Outline - Fillable Form.pdf (82.66 KB)

Class planning template

Use the attached template to think through each class session. While our classes are student driven and your class may want to go faster or slower or take a complete detour from the class you planned, this will help you prepare for various scenarios and be flexible to class needs. This is a guideline only, feel free to use the curriculum planning tools that work best for you.

Class Planning Template 25.pdf

Download Class Planning Template 25.pdf (154.18 KB)

Class Curriculum

Over the years we have amassed a large library of curriculum for various classes including marine biology, data science, forensic science, chemistry, physical science, sport science... Please reach out if you would like support in finding age appropriate activities for your classes.

What is a “class roster” and why is it important?

Your class roster includes your class details including the dates, times, site and room # (for in-person classes). In addition, the roster includes a list of all students enrolled in your class. Your roster includes pertinent information about your students such as age, media release info, special needs and medical conditions and emergency contact info if necessary. NOTE: These reports are confidential and must be kept secure.

How do I access my class roster?

Your student roster will be available on your instructor dashboard as soon as the class opens for registration. To print your roster, you will need to print the roster page, using your browser's print function (CTRL+P on Windows, COMMAND+P on Mac OS). Printed rosters should be shredded at the end of the week.

Note that some SA2U classes may register students through a host school or organization and you will be emailed your roster

Class status:

You can monitor enrollment in your class in real time. If a class cancels, it will be removed from your instructor dashboard and you will be contacted directly by your Class Coordinator. You are expected to teach all class listed in your dashboard.

If the class is listed in your instructor dashboard it is running.

What supplies or technology are needed for a successful class?

Discuss supplies and tech needs including computer licenses and programs with your Class Coordinator when planning and scheduling a class. If you prefer to purchase supplies discuss a class budget in advance, as supply and IT costs need to be included in class tuition.

What supplies are available for me to request?

We buy supplies in bulk, and basic classroom supplies available for pick‐up at the Saturday Academy office. This includes, but is not limited to, items such as: Pencils, Paper, Index Cards, Post‐It Notes, Glue, Tape, Rulers, Scissors, Protractors, Compasses, Calculators, Markers, Permanent Markers, Dry Erase Markers, Sheet Protectors, Composition Books, 2‐Pocket Folders and Rubber Bands.

We have limited quantities of specialty equipment such as: Science Kits, Robotics Kits, First Aid Kits, Microscopes, Laptops, Camcorders, Wacom Tablets, Digital Cameras, Digital Projectors, Webcams, Tripods, Headphones and Microphones.

How do I request supplies, software or technology for my class?

Please request your supplies, software or technology needs through your Classes Coordinator when scheduling a class. Email our IT Associate with technical questions. We recommend testing all software in advance, schedule a time with our IT Associate to test software remotely or in-person before your class.

No later than 1 month before the start of your class, check the "supply status" on your instructor dashboard and mark "Confirmed by instructor" if correct or "change requested" if changes need to be made. Add changes in the supply and software fields. If changes are possible, SA Operations staff will then mark "Confirmed by SA." If the request is not possible, SA will follow up by email with questions or concerns.

I need a really specialized item for my class that you probably don’t have at your offices. Can I get it?

Be sure to discuss any specialized items with your Class Coordinator and include them in your supply list; you’d be surprised what we have! If we don’t have the item, we can place an order. Contact your Classes Coordinator no later than 1 month prior to class with as much detail as possible (link preferred).

How should I make copies for my class?

For virtual classes, work with your Coordinator to upload copies to your Moodle classroom or Google Drive where students will then have the option to print them out or use them digitally. If print outs are mandatory, work with your Classes Coordinator at least 2 weeks in advance of class to print and ship copies to students. Do not expect students to have access to paper and printer on the day class starts. This must be worked out in advance.

How should I return supplies?

Return all equipment and supply kits clean, organized and ready to use by the next instructor. Clearly note any equipment or kit that is broken, missing parts or needs restocking.

During Your Class

Select from the following:

When should I arrive to my class?

Arrive to your class with enough time to park, find your room, setup equipment, and greet students or if you're teaching online with enough time to test your systems out. Typically, we ask that instructors be present and ready to welcome students 10 minutes before the start time of class whether in person or online.

Greet and check in students via your roster as families arrive. For in-person classes, ask families who will be picking students up and note the names of any additional adults not listed on your roster who parents authorize to pick up students. This is your chance to make a welcoming first impression, don't miss it!

Call absent students: For in-person and online classes, please give students a quiet activity, and call absent students within the first 15 minutes. If parents do not pick up, leave a message for them to call our mainline at 503-200-5858 if they have questions, need help logging in / finding the class... Parents really appreciate the courtesy, and it is a safety precaution. If SA Staff are onsite they will make calls for you.

Are students allowed to miss the first day of my class?

Attendance at the first class meeting is required for most courses. If a student is absent from the first class, please check in with your Classes Coordinator. A student can attend future classes with your approval.

Are students allowed to leave the classroom at the end of the day without a parent?

Students in grades 2 – 7 are required to be picked up at the classroom unless prior arrangements have been made by the site coordinator or the student’s parent. Exceptions must be made in writing with the instructor. Call the parent listed on your roster, or Saturday Academy, with questions or concerns.

What do I do if a parent is more than 15 minutes late picking up their student?

You must stay on site to supervise the students until all students have been picked up. Do not release children to unauthorized persons. Do not leave students alone to wait for parents. For your own protection, do not drive a child home or place yourself in any other questionable situation with a student. If a student’s parent/guardian fails to pick up the student, use the contact numbers on the student information report to call the parent/guardian/emergency contact. If you cannot reach a late parent by phone, call Saturday Academy at (503) 200‐5858. Please let Saturday Academy know if parents are not picking up their students on time or if the site coordinator has not been available to stay with the student after class.

Can parents or other adults watch my class?

No guests are permitted into a Saturday Academy class without explicit permission from the SA staff. Parents are only allowed to attend if they receive staff and instructor permission. SA Staff members will on occasion observe your class, and other instructors can request to observe a class with your permission.

What do I do if an emergency comes up and I can't teach?

Emergencies happen, if you are unable to teach during the dates/times that you confirmed with your Classes Coordinator please let them know ASAP. Please call as early as possible to allow for alternative arrangements to be made. If you cannot reach them, call our office mailing at 503-200-5858 for assistance. If you cannot reach SA, and you are able, please call families to let them know. We reschedule the class, or offer a partial refund if rescheduling isn't possible.

Parking:

Leave plenty of time to find parking, especially at our downtown locations.

PSU parking and rates: https://www.pdx.edu/transportation/hourly-visitor-parking

University of Portland: Parking free of charge on weekends, summer and during school breaks.

Classroom Climate:

The community you create on Day 1 will set the tone for the rest of class. Introductions are important!

Start the class with introductions, who are you and why are you here? Post a basic agenda for the class so students know what to expect.
Invite students to share their names, where they go to school, what interests them the most about this class and a fun question that relates to the class. Learn to say student's names correctly!
Establish simple classroom norms. Ask students to contribute a word or two about what kind of classroom culture will make for a safe and fun class. See "Developing a Sense of Belonging with Classroom Norms" for ideas.
Give students a quiet activity to work on for a few minutes while you call any absent students. This could be a drawing activity, reflection on what they already know about the topic to date...

Classroom Management Resources, Tips & Tricks

It’s no secret that we all face classroom management challenges from time to time. While the best defense is a good offense—build community, set clear expectations, have a solid plan that includes engaging and relevant activities - instructors may face students that challenge them and vice versa. We're all human.

25 classroom management tips from teachers
The Art of Distraction
www.cultofpedagogy.com is a thoughtful resource for many angles of a teaching practice
Inclusive Teaching Strategies (download)

Inclusive Teaching Strategies -- Reflection on Your Practice 2017.pdf

Download Inclusive Teaching Strategies -- Reflection on Your Practice 2017.pdf (408.18 KB)

If after establishing a code of norms, and reminding students as needed of those norms, a student persists in disrupting the learning of other students in your class, please reach out to us after your first class session. We are happy to speak with the parent to find a resolution that will allow you and the student to continue engaging in class.

Who should I speak to at Saturday Academy if a student is disrupting the learning of others?

While Saturday Academy strives to serve all curious students, there may be a student who requires special accommodations. We will work with the parent/guardian to make the class a positive learning experience for everyone involved. Call or email your Classes Coordinator or the Site Coordinator if you experience behavior issues such as:

Disruptive or violent student behavior ‐ Disruptive students or students unable or unwilling to participate in class will be withdrawn from class.
Unsatisfied parents/guardians
Students with special needs not previously identified by the parent or guardian
Students’ that divulge concerning personal situations.

If you suspect a student is not safe in their home, please report this to Saturday Academy staff immediately. Do not engage students in discussion on these matters.

The earlier you notify us, the sooner we can engage with families to find a resolution.

In-person Drop-off and pick-up

Check with families before class about who will be picking their student up and fill out a special circumstance form if needed. If you don't recognize a parent, ask for Photo ID.

In the classroom or lab

Call absent students.
Be aware of where your students are at all times, and do not allow unauthorized adults in the classroom.
Use the "truddy" system (groups of 3)
Always demonstrate proper techniques for using equipment. Students should earn the opportunity to use tools by demonstrating appropriate, safe handling.
In the lab, alert students to all possible dangers of working with certain tools and chemicals. Familiarize yourself with Materials Safety Data Sheets in case of emergency. These can be found inside science kits.
If your class leaves its assigned room, put a sign on the door with your location and the time due back. If you are in a school setting, notify the site coordinator or office staff.
Be aware of emergency exits and check with site coordinators for school emergency procedures. In the event of a fire drill, you must exit the building with students.
For computer‐based classes: Parents must be informed if you intend to have a student share personal information to create online accounts for software or applications necessary to complete class work (i.e. Google Classroom, Scratch, etc). If you determine this to be necessary, please alert your Classes Coordinator so that notifications can be provided to parents. Do not allow a student to share personal information online without express permission for their parents.

On field trips

Always take the class roster with emergency contact info, student permission slips, a first aid kit, a cell phone, and maps/directions to your destination. It's also helpful to exchange cell phone numbers with the bus driver.
Seat belts must be used at all times by all passengers. Use the buddy system and have students notify you if their partner is missing.
Always TAKE ROLL prior to leaving any location. Remember, travel time could be used as instructional time.

Online learning

Cyber bullying will not be tolerated, monitor chats. Do not leave students alone in a chatroom.
The Truddy principle applies online too.
Remind students to never give out identifying information such as name, neighborhood and phone number online.
Share links to videos from Google Drive, do not send students to you tube where suggested ads or content may be inappropriate for youth.

Security concerns during class

Be alert. If on campus, contact Public Safety immediately with concerns. Call 911 for emergencies.

Portland State University: Non-Emergency (503.725.4407) Emergency (503.725.4404)
University of Portland: Non-Emergency (503.943.7161) Emergency (503.943.4444)
OHSU: Non-Emergency (503-494-7744) Emergency (503-494-4444)
For any other site, contact Saturday Academy 503-200-5858

Wrapping Up Your Class

Select from the following:

Why is feedback important?

Here at Saturday Academy, we value the reflective process. It's not only a critical stage of learning, it's also a way for us to adapt and continuously improve the learning experience! At the end of each class, we invite all students, parents and instructors to tell us the best parts of their experience, and places for improvement. For grant‐based programs, collection of feedback is required.

How do I collect feedback from my students at the end of class?

Feedback can be collected electronically or manually, depending on amenities available for your class and the age of your students. For electronic feedback, save 5-10 minutes toward the end of the last class and post a link to the student survey. For online classes post a link in the chatroom.

For in-person classes you can open the link on one computer in the classroom, and have students take turns filling it out, and/or high school students may use smartphones if they prefer. If you do not have access to a computer workstation for students to use, please use our paper feedback survey, which can be downloaded below.

For in-person SA2U classes, you will receive an instructor packet in the mail including: Student feedback forms, an Instructor feedback form, a reimbursement form and a Postage Paid Returns envelope. Submit all feedback forms, reimbursement forms, receipts, and attendance sheets in the postage paid return envelope within two weeks of the completion of your class. Save at least five minutes at the end of the last class meeting for students to complete their feedback forms. Review student feedback prior to returning it to the office.

How do I give feedback as an instructor about my experience?

The instructor feedback form provides a space you to reflect on your experience teaching for Saturday Academy. Submitting feedback is a part of your obligation to Saturday Academy as an instructor and is critical for the work that we do!

Student Feedback form.pdf

Download Student Feedback form.pdf (132.05 KB)

How do I submit reimbursement forms and where can I find the reimbursement form?

If you were granted a supply budget for your class and would like to be reimbursed for items you purchased (for a class that ran), you must complete the reimbursement form,

Instructor Reimbursement Form 2019.pdf

Download Instructor Reimbursement Form 2019.pdf (149.42 KB)

attach your original receipts, and mail it to Saturday Academy. Forms must be submitted no later than two weeks after your last class meeting. Late requests may not be able to be processed. Non‐consumable supplies become the property of Saturday Academy if you receive reimbursement and should be returned to the office once your class is over.

I want to purchase snacks for my students. Does Saturday Academy reimburse for that?

Unfortunately, we cannot reimburse for snacks, but appreciate your thoughtfulness in providing snacks for students. For all our classes, we recommend that parents provide snacks for their students. If you want to bring additional snacks, please carefully review the medical notes on your Student Information form for allergy information, and DO NOT bring snacks that contain peanuts of any form.

Does Saturday Academy reimburse for parking?

We only reimburse for parking costs incurred while teaching at PSU, as follows: Sundays, we do not reimburse for parking because PSU parking structures allow free parking. Saturdays, to a maximum of $5/day. PSU Parking Structure 3 allows parking for the $5 rate. For Monday – Friday, to a maximum of $9/day. PSU Parking Structure 3 allows parking for $2.50/hour or $9/day. Other lots are more expensive. Original parking receipts must accompany your reimbursement form. Payment for Instructors receiving a stipend How will I receive payment for my class? Instructor payments are mailed out on the last day of each month. If your class spans more than one month, your teaching fee will be evenly distributed between those months.

Can I enroll in Direct Deposit?

To enroll in Direct Deposit, please contact Claudia Pop, Finance Manager.