Assessment Flow Verbalization

As we discussed in class, many candidates find it a useful learning aide to sit down & write out the assessment flow as they would perform it. 

If this suits your learning style, I'd recommend it.  A candidate from a couple years ago, Piotr, created a nice version.  Link here.

I'd recommend you take a cut at your own first, but you can use this as a reference.  And, of course, make the time to practice this critical skill.

Patrollers - New Patroller Sign-up System

Patrollers -

As we've discussed, we've got a big class this year and will need everyone's help.

This year, I'd like to try a new sign-up system which is (much) easier to use and will give us a better picture of the patroller proctor situation.

Here's a link to the new system:  https://teamup.com/ksbbcadac8c015e175  Or just click here.

No registration required, just sign up for the nights you can help.  Give it a try & let me know your comments & feedback.

Thanks.

Specifics on Class Location at the NetApp Campus

As you know from the tab above, we'll hold the class at NetApp campus in Sunnyvale.  Specifically, we'll be in the Java7 building cafeteria.  Our host provided these instructions/directions:

"...As you turn on Crossman from Java, the first set of buildings on
your left hand side are Java 1 and 2. Then there is a parking
garage and Java 7 followed by Java 8. I'd suggest to people that
they park between Java 7 and Java 8 and go into the
Cafeteria directly from the side entrance..."

Preparations for Class Start Next Week

Candidates - 

We have 15 candidates and great instructor crew assembled and are looking forward to a great class.  In preparation for the start of class next week, I'd like to point out/reiterate a few items to focus on: 

- As you know, our first class is next Tuesday, Aug. 16.  We'll start class at 7PM, but I'd advise you show up a 15 mins or so early to take care of some paperwork, get to know a few folks, and get settled. Location specifics/directions on the blog. 

- As you saw in the "Class Materials" section of the blog, be sure you have read the initial chapters in the book, and in particular, it's very important to spend some extra time to read and fully digest the "Guide to Assessment".   Assessment is a foundation of medical treatment, and is critical to have down 100% so that you can determine and direct appropriate treatment.  We spend the first class sessions on this important skill, and it's important that you arrive at class with this well studied so that we can hit the ground running.

- As you also saw in the blog, our class is driven in large part by scenarios - simulated situations where you'll be applying the skills you're learning in class.  With this approach, you'll get dirty - spending time on the floor, with moulage, etc.  As such, it's best to wear old clothes that you're comfortable exposing to such situations. 

- Finally, we have a set of supplies you'll be receiving Tuesday. Bring something to carry it all in such as what's described in the blog, i.e. backpack good; shopping bag not. 

Looking forward to having you all in class this year.  Shoot me a note with any questions you may have,
Bill

Updated Class Registration Procedure

Candidates -

As we discussed, the National Ski Patrol office has implemented a new protocol this year (2016) for students registering for OEC courses.  Candidates are now required to take two steps: 1) Register with the National Office as an NSP member & candidate, and 2) Register with the local OEC course that you've chosen to take.   Total $ for our class is still the same as published previously, it's just now in two steps.  

The process for each of these are documented on the "Registration & Fees" tab above.  Please have a look & follow the instructions there.

Two important notes for this process for Summer 2016:

- The NSP has recently rolled out a new IT system, and there are numerous reports that it is not working reliably at the moment (early August 2016).  My suggestion here is to give the NSP registration process some time to settle out, and do this registration later in August/early September.  As long as you register for our local class (Step 2 in the instructions in the tab above), your participation in class will not be affected.

- For those candidates who have already sent in checks for $240, I will hand these checks back to you on the first night of class & exchange them for a check from you for $180.  So, bring your checkbook to class on the first night and we'll settle up.

We'll discuss further in class on the first night.

Above Average Snowfall Forecast in 2016/17

See article here.

OEC SouthBay 2016 Is A Go

Confirming that our class this Fall is a go.  We have a full class of 15 candidates, plus 3 (so far) on the waiting list.  A few comments/tips for candidates to get started on:

- Ensure you read & get started on the course materials that are noted on the Course Materials & Preparations tab on the blog.   In particular, it's critical that you have read & fully digested the "Guide to Assessment" that's noted/linked above.  As you saw on the syllabus, there are also several chapters in the book you'll need to have read by the first class.

- This year, as in past years, we often have people commuting from San Francisco who often find it useful to carpool.  If you're interested in this, shoot a note to the disti list that you received to connect & you can PM to make arrangements.

- Plan on showing up 15 minutes early for our first class on Aug. 16.  We'll have some paperwork for you to complete, and you'll have a chance to get to know the other candidates and several of the patrollers who'll be assisting with the class.

In the meantime, keep an eye here on the blog for further announcements & information.  Looking foward to a great class this year.