Teachers's topics - tribe.net

high school math teachers?

cooldawn — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 23:55:54 GMT

We posted 2 math openings for our charter school in Oakland - 1 middle school and 1 high school. We've received dozens of apps for the middle school position, but have yet to have a single QUALIFIED applicant for the high school position. So... if you happen to know of a certified math teacher who got got a pink slip from their district last month pm me!

FYI for those reading this not from the bay area - Arnold's education $$ cuts mean teacher layoffs here so "last hired = first fired" no matter how great a teacher they may be...

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

the usa election system- explained simply- help!

janathemama — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 21:29:01 GMT

Hi all, I am getting ready to give a 10 minutes talk in English to a class of EFL students, and I am supposed to explain the election system to them. The history, the mechanism, the presidential elections etc. I am looking for a SIMPLE website to help me compile a few graphs and charts, - and you never know, I might even understand it myself in the end!!

Can you help me?

mindy ukulela from switzerland

posted in Teachers - 4 replies

Academic Freedom Bills: Be Alarmed. Be Very Alarmed

Krampus — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 16:56:57 GMT

Academic Freedom Bills: Be Alarmed. Be Very Alarmed

"Academic Freedom" bills seem to come in two flavors: Those that protect students from the possibility of learning certain things, and those that protect subversive teachers from getting in trouble for being bad teachers. In both cases, they are bills typically introduced into state legislatures by conservative republicans expressing concern with the Liberal Bias. There is a vague institutional connection between the concept of Academic Freedom Bills and the organization founded by conservative David Horowitz, "Students for Academic Freedom." The motto of this organization is "You can't get a good education if they're only telling you half the story."

Read the whole op-ed here:
http://scienceblogs.com/gregladen/2008/04/academic_freedom_bills_be_alar.php

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

anyone in here teach AP Statistics?

cooldawn — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 02:23:37 GMT

What text book do you use? What are some things you do or don't like about it?

posted in Teachers - 2 replies

Brain Research Help!

Andie — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 02:16:36 GMT

Hi all,

I'm stuck!

Can you tell me how many times it takes for habits to become internalized and let me know the source you got your information from? I'm working on a paper and can't seem to find the information anywhere!

Thanks so much!!!!

(Sorry for the cross posting!)

posted in Teachers - 3 replies

December frustrations, and with adult learners, too!

kalicleo — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 17:00:22 GMT

You can always tell when it's December in college... Can you say, "freak out!"??

I'm a bit frustrated because a class of *adults* I teach at night are not getting the work done, and then emailing at the last minute to say, "I don't want to flunk this class." AAaaarrggghh!! The old "dog ate my homework" has been replaced with "my computer crashed." Do we need to spend an entire class period lecturing on the importance of backing up files and doing things far enough in advance that if something does go wrong, it's still not too late to pull a rabbit out of their hat? Can you *really* teach common sense?

My son in high school has these occasional lapses. Won't he grow out of that?

Just ranting. You can move along now... :D

posted in Teachers - 5 replies

Hula-hoop Stuntman !?!?!

Dizzy — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 22:22:10 GMT

Hi everyone, sorry about the self -ad but other wise I have to work through a big agency to get the word out!
Check out my videos! I have a 45 minute assembly and great workshops.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDGh3weFiMg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-VrNsGfWRE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xu5ZPZ1DHu0
Thanks
Dizzy

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

New technology in the classroom.. Anyone else loving it!?!?

windhorse — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:50:45 GMT

Hey, I'm all fired up about using the new clicker system we got through our district's Impact on Education grant! I've been using it for about four weeks now, and it has been a nice transition for my teaching!
The clickers themselves are only a small part of what is good about the CPS system made by Einstruction. With the great projector that displays the computer screen so well, my big sound system plugged into the laptop, and the mobile chalkboard, I am able to use multi-media with my kids just about every day! It's awesome to show graphs of earthquake data for predicting the eruption of a volcano using two colors on graphed lines with straight axes - using the CPS whiteboard question, click onto a saved movie, click onto a graphic - closeup on the graphic, then back out to a clicker question on the graphic.. Just last week, I showed a DVD on the laptop and stopped the movie at certain points with the remote chalkboard, so we could have mini-class discussions. The interaction was much greater than if it had been shown on a TV set. The quick grading, the quick demonstration, the quick learning, the ability to re-test and re-learn, all of it hugely beneficial to my class! My kids love it, and so do I!!
Anybody else here using something like that!?

posted in Teachers - 3 replies

New Tribe: Child's Play

Kit Kat — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 03:14:23 GMT

Hi Everyone,

I've created a new tribe called Child's Play. Share and find new ideas about how we can help our children to learn and develope through play and have fun doing it!

http://tribes.tribe.net/childsplay

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

Any Other Theater/Drama Teachers?

lindasdream — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 19:58:20 GMT

Join my new tribe!

Share ideas, tips, lesson plans and so forth,

http://tribes.tribe.net/theaterartseducation

~Linda

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

Knock ... Knock ... Opportunity

☼Sunshine☼ — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:41:09 GMT

Reply to: see below
Date: 2007-09-25, 1:42PM PDT

Are you a FUN-LOVING school teacher with LOTS OF ENERGY??? Do you LOVE to entertain your students everyday, and NEVER GET REWARDED for it??? Here's a chance to put your high-energy and EXCITING PERSONALITY on TV and WIN LOTS OF MONEY FOR IT!!!

Mark Burnett Productions is teaming up with NBC to put on a BRAND NEW GAME SHOW. We are located close to UCLA and only casting this week, so if you can make it here TOMORROW or THURSDAY, PLEASE get on our books for an interview!

PLEASE EMAIL markburnettcasting@gmail.com with your phone contact info and a picture and tell us why you'd be great for our game show! OR you can call JAMES at 310.903.5452!

TIME IS RUNNING OUT, CALL OR EMAIL ME NOW!

Location: Brentwood, LA, CA
it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests
Compensation: Winnings up to $250,000

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

TRYING to start of the new school year by being organized...

DeannaLeigh — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 00:13:50 GMT

Ok, this is kind of random BUT was hoping to get some ideas on how other teachers organize their teaching materials (master papers, and etc.)? I am just curious what everyone else does because I am wanting to start this school year teaching Kindergarten (which is in only 2 ½ weeks away) by being more organized SO I thought I’d post this to see what others might do. Any organization tips?

posted in Teachers - 4 replies

maternity leave

heidealist — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 18:37:25 GMT

So, Baby's coming any time- so, obviously- not starting the school year with my class- they'll have a sub the first few months. I want to see what other mommy-teachers have done re: sub plans. I don't think it's realistic for me to make daily plans for the next few months- although one teacher at my school did- another one did NOTHING, with no negative consequence.

What's actually expected at your school?

What do teachers actually deliver?

posted in Teachers - 1 reply

LAUSD and Payroll

Andie — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 19:43:57 GMT

Is anyone else having issues?

Ugh.

My story:

First they tell me I owe them $6k becuase they overpaid me. They sent a big, confusing packet that I took to a CPA who couldn't figure it out.

Then I got my first monthly paycheck of the year--on September 5, the first day of school.

$138.27.

I called payroll, they (basically) said, "oops, we'll fix that and put your correct check in the mail for you.

The check never came.

When I went downtown to have an "expert" look at my packet that said that I owe $6k, the expert couldn't figure out the packet.

And they had my September check in the payroll office.

How does this even happen?!?!

posted in Teachers - 1 reply

Behavior!!!

kathleen — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 17:42:55 GMT

I teach a reading class by Scholastic called Read 180. It's for striving or struggling readers. I teach grades 5-8. This is my fourth year teaching the program and I think it's a great program. I've had lots of great results. Trouble is, I have kids who'd rather be in PE or Art (so would I) and have a seriously bad attitude coming in. I also have lots of attention deficit issues. As kids get to know me, they relax a bit, but I still have those squirrelly individuals who just can't seem to get with the program!

I don't have a lot of support from the admin. They like to see discipline handled by the teams, but since I have kids on all teams, I don't get much support. I can't even have kids come in during lunch because I have lunch at a different time from most of my kids.

What are your favorite methods/systems for maintaining order and on task behavior?

posted in Teachers - 4 replies

Tricky Subject...

lindasdream — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 03:47:58 GMT

Hi teachers,
Without saying too much, due to confidentiality, I'm wondering if any other teachers have experienced having students with Gender Identity issues and how this is treated or approached in the classroom (if at all). I'm especially wondering about pronoun and gender labels like "He" versus "She" and just being sensitive in general. I suppose I need to have a personal conversation with the individual... but not even sure how to approach That conversation.
Any advice would be awesome.
~Linda
PS. I teach high school level grades 9-12

posted in Teachers - 6 replies

Higher education access act..so cool

Lee-Ann — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 11:34:46 GMT

Extends Pell Grant authorization to 2017 and increases the maximum award to $5,400, an increase of $1,090, by 2012.
Cuts interest rates in half by 2012
Reauthorizes the Upward Bound programs.
Limits loan repayments to 15 percent of discretionary income
Allows borrowers to remain in income-based repayment for more than 10 years.
For borrowers in the income-based repayment program, federal student loan debt will be forgiven after 25 years of repayment. Borrowers employed in certain public service fields may have their loans forgiven after 10 years.
Establishes a new grant program called Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants. The grants provide $4,000 per year (with a maximum total of $16,000 for undergraduates and $8,000 for graduate students) to students who meet the following conditions:
Maintain a GPA of 3.25 or, for freshman, have a high school GPA of 3.25 or score in the 75th percentile on a college admissions test;
Complete, or work toward, a degree with the necessary coursework to become an elementary or secondary school teacher;
Teach for at least one year following college;
Meet Department of Education requirements to be considered a highly qualified teacher;
Eliminates a provision in the Higher Education Act that cut Pell Awards for students attending low-cost colleges.
Teach in high need fields including: math, science, foreign language, special education, reading, and bilingual education. Other fields may be considered high need if they are approved by the Department of Education;
Borrowers who do not complete the requirements will have their grants converted to loans.
Replaces the three-year limitation on loan deferment for certain members of the armed forces with a provision allowing borrowers to defer until 180 days after they are demobilized.
Creates a new grant program called College Access Challenge Grants that provides states with a 2 to 1 match on all dollars spent on increasing access for underserved groups. If states fail to raise spending over time, they will see their federal match reduced proportionally
Increases funding for historically black colleges and universities and minority serving institutions.

The increased aid programs are financed mostly through cuts to lender subsidies and payments to guarantee agencies. Specifically, the bill raises funds by:
Eliminating the “Exceptional Performer” program that allowed higher subsidies for lenders that meet certain requirements. The bar to be considered an “exceptional performer” had been set so low that virtually all lenders qualified.
Reducing the insurance paid by the federal government on defaulted loans from 98 percent to 97 percent through 2012 and to 95 percent thereafter.
Reducing the amount of funds guarantee agencies may keep from collection efforts by nearly a third.
Reducing Special Allowance Payments for both non-profit and for-profit lenders.
Increasing a fee paid by lenders to the Department of Education from 0.5 to 1 percent of the principle at a loan's origination. Lenders may not pass the fee increase to borrowers.
Decreasing payments from the Department of Education to guarantee agencies for account maintenance.

The bill also authorizes a pilot program in which the right to provide loans will be auctioned on the basis of competitive bidding by lenders. The proposed system is intended as a market-based substitute to the current practice of setting lender yield politically through legislation. While AACRAO supports a move to a market-based rate-setting mechanism, it has expressed strong misgivings about a rights-auction approach. Our objections are based on past experience with this particular approach, which was continually beset with problems and periodic losses of access to capital.
###

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

department heads

cooldawn — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 18:27:29 GMT

Long story short, looks like I'm going to be dept head this year at my little charter school. One problem I *know* needs work is communication - up to and including exactly what the job description of dept head is...lol. I've led teacher workshops and mentored new teachers before, but dept head is something new for me. Other than being the "go to person" for things and organizer of meetings, what are some things YOUR dept head (or you, if you are one) takes care of? I mainly anticipate a lot of bookkeeping type chores.... is that about right or am I way off base here?

posted in Teachers - 5 replies

Teacher's Lounge: Is this going to be on the test?

Krampus — Sat, 08 Sep 2007 16:44:28 GMT

Teacher's Lounge: Is this going to be on the test?
by rserven
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2007/9/8/114157/9984
Posted Sat Sep 08, 2007 at 08:48:20 AM PDT

An educated mind is an opened mind. An opened mind is a liberal mind. Teachers don't have to intend to create liberals, it happens naturally.

s this going to be on the test?

I've been a teacher for 31 years.

Never in any of that time was it not the case that students wanted me to teach to the test. "Is this going to be on the test?" is the single most asked question I have received. If I were to tell the students the material was not on the test, the majority would have tuned out immediately.

There have been the few...a very thin layer indeed...who have actually wanted to learn the material deeply, who asked, "Why?" and weren't content with "Because." as an answer. I have cherished each of those students. They are the reason I have been able to come back to teach every year. It is for them that I refuse to give up.

I still cling to my old ways. While I am in no stretch of anyone's conception what could be called a traditional type person, I trust in the fact that thousands of years of human endeavor have taught us how to teach one another. It is not a new skill. Trying to reinvent it, as has been done in recent years is absurd, to my way of thinking. We might as well pass initiatives to reinvent breathing.

Effort. I succeeded through effort...with a modicum of inspiration. It helped that I had some special gifts. I can't deny that being smart helps. But I succeeded because I was willing to learn what was being taught. That meant I was willing to learn more than was going to be on the test.

I would never have dreamed to utter the words, "If it's not on the test, why are you wasting time teaching it?" It has always made me cringe when those words have oozed out of one of my students. They are the mark of the beast, the neon sign floating above that student which says, "I am not willing to work on this subject unless forced to do so. I am willing to fail."

As my heart sinks, I try to patiently explain to my students that I do not know what is on the exam, if indeed there is going to be one, until a few days before it is given. I explain how it has come to pass that I don't believe it is fair to them for me to know what the questions are going to be beforehand. I tell how it is my job to tell them the story they need to learn in order to be able to pass any test on the material...and that I take this responsibility seriously. I bear my soul. Most of them roll their eyes. I know I am speaking to the few.

To the rest, I beg them not to follow that path, if not for their own sakes, then at least so that they can maybe learn not to pass that attitude on to their children. And at least for the sake of the rest of us, who will have to live with the mistakes they may make at some point in the future because they weren't willing to learn how not to make them.

What makes it so hard to struggle onward is that the question, "If it's not on the test, why are you wasting time teaching it?" If not in those precise words, that has been the interpretation I place on No Child Left Behind and the present higher education initiatives. The difference with now is that the question is coming from On High.

This administration appears not to be filled with knowledge-seekers. When I look at George W. Bush and many of his subordinate mouths, that neon sign is flashing above his head. "I am willing to fail."

Good job, George. You have succeeded.

What is sad is that he has managed to bring the rest of us down with him.

--Robyn Elaine Serven
--Bloomfield College, NJ

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

Block Schedules...your thoughts??

Jody — Mon, 02 Apr 2007 00:45:36 GMT

Hi to you all :)

My school is planning on "piloting" a block schedule this coming week and then the staff are supposed to give their Pros/Cons about using it the following year.

I work in a middle school 6th-8th and i, myself am and SDC teacher (so, I've heard from my standpoint, I may have some flexibility not to go by this as I work with a co-teacher, but...)

Have any of your schools used this? And/or what did you find was a positive or negative about it?

This would mean we would teach to students in periods 1, 3, 5 for 2 hours on Mon Tues...then teach to students in periods 2, 4, 6 for 2 hours on Wed, Thurs. - I don't know what they are planning for Fridays b/c it is an early out day.

Personallly, I am concerned for students with this set up for multiple reasons, including foremost....consistent daily instruciton, review, reinforcement, and re-teaching of skills, etc.

LOVE to hear from you!!! ...they kind of sprung this one on us..apparently, some in leadership spoke accolades of this ie. b/c they teach science or other programs where the typical period is difficult to get through all activities...Please help!

posted in Teachers - 6 replies

Teaching English as a second language over the radio

ENIAD — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 13:33:08 GMT

I would like to put together a project where I would give TESL lessons over the radio in a vast geographical area that is basically French speaking.

Does anyone have any experience on the topic?
What should I look to provide in my lesson plan?

posted in Teachers - 1 reply

Recommendation for good HS science differentiation resource?

loucasa — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 02:38:29 GMT

I am looking for a good resource (i.e. book) on differentiation in science, specifically chemistry if possible, at the high school level. As I look through the available material, I find that the materials are all directed to the elementary or middle school level. My colleagues and I have discussed our district's differentiation mandate and feel that high school science is a particularly difficult subject area in which to implement this. I am trying to keep an open mind, but need a resource that specifically addresses the needs of my classroom.

Thanks,
Lou

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

A is for

acohen843 — Sat, 04 Aug 2007 17:10:10 GMT

I wrote a small presentation to teach the American alphabet and a little bit about America. I released it under the Creative Commons license (www.creativecommons.org), allowing anyone to use and reproduce it as long as they don't sell it.

http://show.zoho.com/public/acohen843/americanAlphabet.ppt2

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

First year teacher here

Kelly — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 15:55:34 GMT

Hi, I'm new to the tribe and teaching. I was just offered a job at a primary school as an interrelated resource teacher, co-teaching with kindergarten and first grade teachers. I'm so excited, but a little nervous! I'm going the non-traditional route. I've just come out of a career in journalism but I've had a little classroom experience, helping out my mom, who is a kindergarten teacher.

Anyway, hello all, and any first year teacher advice would be greatly appreciated. All I ask is that you don't totally scare me. :)

posted in Teachers - 4 replies

Let's Skype

acohen843 — Sat, 21 Jul 2007 16:09:45 GMT

Hi,

I began experimenting using Skype (www.skype.com) to teach ESL online. An unexpected benefit of this method - I also talk with and share ideas with other teachers.

Any teachers interested in talking and sharing ideas? Please let me know and I will give you my skype id.

Sincerely,
Alan

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

A Math Lesson on College Loans

Krampus — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 16:47:05 GMT

A Math Lesson on College Loans
By MADELEINE MAY KUNIN
Published: June 13, 2007
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/13/opinion/13kunin.html?_r=2&oref=slogin&oref=slogin

THE Department of Education’s proposed new standards for overseeing student loans — a response to the growing scandal involving kickbacks from lending institutions to university student-aid officials — are a step in the right direction. But the department and the Bush administration could go further in making student loans cheaper, less cumbersome and, most important, not susceptible to corruption.

In fact, the method for achieving this is already on the books: the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program, which omits the middleman and allows the government itself to give loans to students. It needs to be expanded.

Since 1994, the Education Department has given universities a choice between the traditional Federal Family Education Loan Program, under which the government guarantees loans from 3,500 eligible banks and other lenders, and the Ford direct loan system.

This direct loan program was one of the first education initiatives of the Clinton administration; we thought it would save taxpayers money and simplify the lending process for both students and universities. Indeed, as anyone who has ever tried to negotiate his way through the paperwork involved in the traditional loan program will attest, the direct loan system has proved to be one of those rare cases in which the federal bureaucracy is far more streamlined than the private sector.

It also saves taxpayers a lot of money. According to President Bush’s 2007 budget, the government will pay a subsidy of 1.7 percent on the dollar value of its direct loans, as opposed to the 7.5 percent it will pay on guaranteed loans by private lenders. (There are many reasons for this disparity — which changes from year to year — including variations in expected loan volumes and the extra monetary rewards needed to attract private lenders to the guaranteed loan program.)

The Office of Management and Budget projects that students and parents will borrow $76 billion this year from the guaranteed loan program. If all these loans were direct loans, the O.M.B. found, the Treasury would save nearly $4.5 billion.

Even if only a small percentage of borrowers moved into the direct loan program, the savings could be enough to provide more grants for needy students. Democratic leaders in the House and Senate have proposed bills to create such a redistribution, and they deserve support.

Unfortunately, direct lending has a troubled history in Congress. Back in the early ’90s, lending institutions, which see student loans as easy money, lobbied strongly against creating the direct loan program. It survived only because Democrats tucked it into the 1993 budget agreement.

Although the law permitted up to 60 percent of American universities and colleges to move to direct lending, the number participating has never topped one-third and it is now down to about 25 percent. Why? When Republicans took control of Congress in 1994, they passed a law that prohibited the Education Department from encouraging or requiring colleges to switch to the direct loan program.

While this might seem a good way to ensure competition, it has not worked in practice. According to a study by the New America Foundation, lenders “profiting from the guarantee system could use their substantial resources to lure or retain colleges and universities, while the direct loan program was not allowed to make its own case.”

This very idea — that banks “lure” universities into doing business — brings us to perhaps the best argument on behalf of direct lending: it eliminates any possibility of corruption, favoritism or abuse. The traditional bank loan program will always depend on volume for its earnings. No matter how many regulations are issued by Washington, there will always be an incentive for lenders to win over financial aid officers by any means possible.

Another advantage of direct lending is that universities do not have to try to sort out which of the thousands of private lenders would be best for their students. With direct loans, the government can ensure the lowest costs for taxpayers and students.

An additional benefit for students (and the nation) is that the direct loan program offers income-contingent loan repayment options, which can lower premiums, and that after 25 years of repayment, loans are forgiven. These features make it easier for debt-ridden students to take lower-paying jobs that serve the public interest without having to worry about defaulting on their loans.

More than ever, achieving the American Dream depends on access to a good, affordable college education. Expanding the direct lending program is a sensible and cost-effective way for Congress and the Education Department to help more of our young people realize it.

Madeleine May Kunin, a former governor of Vermont, was the deputy secretary of education from 1993 to 1996.

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

Federal intrusion in college accreditation

Krampus — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 11:14:51 GMT

Federal intrusion in college accreditation must be resisted

By WILLIAM BAINBRIDGE, The Times-Union
http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/060707/opb_175205279.shtml

Margaret Spellings, U.S. secretary of education, has now incurred the wrath of former U.S. secretary of education and U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn. Alexander reports he will block Spellings from federalizing higher education accreditation. Alexander, also formerly president of the University of Tennessee, said he will "offer an amendment when the Senate considers reauthorizing the Higher Education Act."

Alexander's amendment would prohibit Spellings from issuing any final regulations on accreditation until Congress passes reauthorization.

This nation enjoys the most outstanding higher education system in the world. America's universities enroll huge numbers of foreign students.

Nevertheless, the Spellings Commission continues to push the liberal notion of unprecedented federal control over higher education. The commission's process sounds eerily similar to the No Child Left Behind act, which Spellings orchestrated. Spellings has attempted to direct school districts using No Child.

As one of the harshest critics of our nation's higher education system, Spellings took limited advantage of it as a student. Spellings is the first national education chief without a graduate degree and has zero experience in educational administration.

*****Her only teaching experience was as an uncertified substitute teacher. All of her predecessors held prominent positions and had experience at the policy level. This Texan was a political director for Gov. George W. Bush and later served as domestic policy adviser when Bush became president. There is no doubt she is a neo-conservative ideologue.*******

As chairman of the Education Policy Center of Texas, Charles Miller designed the flawed Texas school accountability system. Now Miller, appointed by Spellings to lead the higher education commission, claims: "American higher education is broken and can't be fixed."

Sound familiar? College and university leaders need to be ready to learn from their K-12 counterparts how federal intrusion can damage educational institutions.

St. Lawrence University President Daniel Sullivan blasted Spellings, calling the commission's report "a national embarrassment."

Duke University Vice Provost Judith Ruderman said: "The Spellings Commission set in motion a huge brouhaha. These initiatives will not really help higher education or increase accountability, but take away a good portion of what makes American higher education unique and effective. We don't want all this intrusion."

Our college and universities participate in a voluntary and independent accreditation process that sets high standards without control of the federal government. The process is not perfect, but it is far better than anything federal controls might produce.

During the reign of Spellings:

- The secretary has been chastised in Congress for ignoring kickbacks and allowing student loan lenders to rake in millions with inflated interest rates.

- Massive high stakes testing has resulted in numerous scoring errors by testing vendors, unfairly punishing students, teachers and schools.

- Her office is alleged to have permitted preferential treatment for campaign contributors who sold textbooks or tests in the $1 billion-a-year Reading First scandal of No Child.

- Spellings has been on American Idol, Comedy Central and was the first Cabinet member to appear on Jeopardy, where she performed worse than parents would like their children to perform on federally mandated tests.

The president of the American Medical Association, William G. Plested III, when talking about the nation's health care funding model, recently told the Rotary Club of Jacksonville, "I would submit it is a mess because the federal government has been taking care of it."

Plested expressed sentiments about the federal government similar to those many feel about the meddling of Spellings, the largest usurpation of school district control ever.

At a time when the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act and No Child are being considered, Congress needs to adopt anti-conflict-of-interest rules and investigate the use of nonprofits to fatten the wallets of their officers.

The president needs to replace his education secretary and remove the federal government from managing the nation's education system.

posted in Teachers - 1 reply

East Bay long-term sub possibility

heidealist — Thu, 17 May 2007 02:38:34 GMT

I have good news. I'm expecting a little one at the end of August. This is going to make starting the next school year a bit challenging. I was hoping to find someone with a long term sub-credential AND some credential training who was looking to get a few months experience. It occurs to me it might be good for someone looking for student-teaching/intern-type experience. I'd be out of the classroom the first few months (at least through early December). I'd be possibly available for mentoring/advice/help planning in the fall- definitely available over the summer, but as it's my first child, I really have no idea how available once the baby comes. This person would be welcome to complete any student-teaching requirements in my room after I return.

My tentative assignment is a 3rd grade classroom- although things have been known to change come September.

Oh, and I teach in Hayward.

Let me know if this fits anybody's needs.

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

National Boards for Professional Teaching Standards Tribe

Andie — Wed, 09 May 2007 16:25:41 GMT

If you've passed, are taking them, or are interested, let's all talk!

http://tribes.tribe.net/nbpts

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

Calling all Art Teachers

Alison — Wed, 09 May 2007 13:33:02 GMT

A tribe for us

http://tribes.tribe.net/4teachers

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

Experienced teacher needs help with resume!

:Eileen: — Fri, 23 Mar 2007 02:00:10 GMT

Hi,

I am a teacher in Oakland. Although I'm at a great school, I plan to start looking at positions in private schools.

Perhaps someone could help me figure out some of the following:
-Are there specific criteria private school administrators seek (in an educator) that may not be obvious to a public school teacher?
-Are there any outstanding (online) resources with examples of resumes appropriate for the teaching profession (I’ve done the basic Google searches!)?
-Is it appropriate to include references to outstanding student achievement w/regard to local academic competitions or positive feedback from parents/administrators on a resume and/or cover letter?
-How do you word something about your ability to foster community, motivation, respect, responsibility, etc. in the classroom!? Is this the sort of stuff you leave off a resume and put in a cover letter…. ?

If you’d like to forward me a personal note or attach a copy of a resume you’ve found effective (your own or someone else’s), please do so!! I'd love to see a sample...

Thanks in advance folks!

Eileen

posted in Teachers - 1 reply

To Teach or Not to Teach Next Year

Dan — Fri, 16 Mar 2007 12:59:53 GMT

Hi, I'm looking for advice from teachers. I made a midcareer choice to become a teacher. After working with university administration and adult teaching, 5 years ago I went back to school to get my credential. Since I've gotten my credential, I've worked at 3 different schools - (elementary, and middle). It's been a struggle in terms of classroom management ; however this year I've actually made it through the entire year teaching 7th grade language arts/history. My observation was satisfactory however it was a one year position and the principal and I agreed that older (high school and above) would be better for me. I've had 2 summer school high school teaching positions and really liked them.
I could go back to a desk job (Less stress) and do tutoring/teaching on the side. Or again I could try for another position next year. Family tells me that I should do the latter - that teachers don't get respect or money and that I could do much better in corporate training/ESL. Still despite my exhaustion at time, I still like my kids and have developed some nice relationships. I have supportive parents at my school for the most part. I enjoy putting together lessons even if they don't always go as well as I planned. Plus, a "desk" job would be boring. I'm bilingual in Spanish, have both a single and multiple subject credential. What would you do in my situation? Any suggestions out there.

posted in Teachers - 5 replies

IB Programs

Krampus — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 13:40:03 GMT

Hello all:

I am seeking employment teaching Philosophy in an IB program in the D.C. metro area including Northern Virginia. I have been teaching Philosophy for 6 years at the collegiate level. I earned my Masters from Georgia State in 1999.

Philosophy is an optional component of the IB curriculum; however, it compliments all other required sections. Only two IB schools in the NV-DC area offer Philosophy.

Does anyone have experience in an IB school? If anyone is interested in offering Philosophy as part of their IB program please private message me.

(I keep my real identity on-line anonymous due to issues of academic harassment.)

posted in Teachers - 1 reply

Grading papers in front of students

jmparker — Wed, 12 Apr 2006 12:57:03 GMT

I used to never do this. I don't know why. Not like paper-grading is some kind of mystical magic that can only happen behind closed doors.

Anyway, today I was giving an exam and forgot to bring something to read... so I just started grading the papers as they handed them in, while sitting at my desk in front of the students who were still busy with the exam. Students coming up to hand in their exams could see me grading the exams of the students who had come up just prior. And for the first time, it felt kind of normal.

Is this rude? A person hang-up?

posted in Teachers - 7 replies

Looking to teach primary ed in PA

JimJ — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 14:08:25 GMT

I love working with kids, and I miss teaching a lot. When I had lived my ten years in Philly, I had taught three different subjects (aquatic sciences, local history, and courtroom stenography), and then I'd moved and gotten married. However, when I did teach, I was grandfathered in, as I do NOT have any teaching certification or directly-related degrees.

My desire to go back to teaching stems from a great deal, not the least of which is the enviornment and culture. I looking to 1) investigate where to go locally (York County, PA) for a Master's degree in Primary Education (kids were most fun to teach); 2) find out what is required to actually do the teaching (certifications and whatnot); and 3) sort out what certifications there are. I'm having a massively difficult time figuring out what to do and how to do it. There seems to be an abundance of information out there, but I can't sort it out to focus on what I need to do. [insert "arrgh"].

Does anyone have any recommendations? advice for a beginner? a kick in the pants in the right direction to get started? The sooner I get myself underway, the sooner I can work towards improving myself and--by extension--my family and our situation.

posted in Teachers - 1 reply

Everyday Math

DeniseDenise — Thu, 02 Mar 2006 03:31:06 GMT

Do you use this program? Are you familiar with it? what do you think of it? likes/dislikes?

posted in Teachers - 4 replies

Pre-AP/AP English Help...

nari — Sat, 03 Feb 2007 15:54:14 GMT

I am teaching Siddhartha and The Catcher in the Rye and most of the materials I have found are not really AP level materials. I have made some lessons and created some projects, but any materials that are AP level for these novels would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

PRAXIS tests Support tribe

Sat, 03 Feb 2007 14:32:04 GMT

Hello there!

For any of you that are studying for/planning to start studying for the PRAXIS tests...I've created a tribe dedicated to support. Please feel free to join.

http://tribes.tribe.net/praxistest

I am planning to take mine this June, if I am in the country on time.

Thanks!

halcyon

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

What's teaching really all about??

windhorse — Thu, 12 Oct 2006 02:24:28 GMT

The other day I was talking with my principal,, the one who's always talking to me about how I could improve my teaching by doing this or that thing with methods, set-up, etc. You know, the typical type A focus on organizational stuff.

But when he was talking to me and giving some advice the other day on how to help keep some really badly misbehaving guys in line in a class I have later in the day, he says, "You and I both know that teaching is really all about relationships..."

I took it as the biggest relief and the nicest thing he's ever said to me.. Probably because that's where I really put most of my focus.

Would you agree with him? How would it make you feel?

posted in Teachers - 6 replies

Art activity for 8-12 year olds

Shan — Sun, 21 Jan 2007 02:26:34 GMT

Hey everybody,

I have to plan a painting, a collage, a mixed media and a sculpture project for this age group.
Supplies are somewhat limited to traditional art materials. Do you have any favorite projects
you'd like to share with me? The course runs for 4 weeks and each class is 1.5 hours.
Units can be combined (sculpture and painting etc. ) but projects can't be too large - little
storage space. Or advice about what doesn't work?

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

phonics for grade 7

Shan — Wed, 13 Dec 2006 22:09:23 GMT

Hi there,

I'm tutoring a student who according to her teacher is having difficulties with phonics. Know some helpful free websites (with lessons, worksheets etc.) ?

Shan

posted in Teachers - 2 replies

March break in Mexico?

solomax — Sun, 07 Jan 2007 08:42:54 GMT

Over the next three months, 30+ tribe members (healers and serious/playful action heroes) will join me in Central Mexico to develop a cultural exchange community center. We have an HQ in Palmillas, Sinaloa and land near Roblito, Nayarit.

I'm currently at home in Eastern Canada, and could speak with you on the phone during the next week if you are interested in joining us. On January 15th I leave for Mexico.

During the march break you could bring a group of students, and we'd set them up with locals to live with for a week. Or, just come yourself and check it out for next year.

General info about this project: www.solomax.com/roblito.html

Details unfold in our tribe: http://tribes.tribe.net/roblito

Send me your phone number and a good time to call ASAP.

If you would like to stay updated on this project, add your email to the google group form at:
www.actionheronetwork.net

-Cory Richardson
506-635-4122

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

English CSET and other ramblings!

Dan — Sun, 17 Dec 2006 14:08:08 GMT

Have any of you out there in Cali taken the English CSET and passed without a strong English background. I teach middle school (Language Arts and History) and need to pass the second part of English CSET (subset III and IV). I already have social studies and multiple subject credential. Would like to teach high school level English during year. Taught sophomore English last summer and loved doing so. Suggestions welcome.

Also, what's a good way to chill out over Xmas break. I have to slow down some and not think about my classroom for 2 weeks. I think it's time to go to the gym!

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

looking for teambuilder lessons

cooldawn — Sun, 05 Nov 2006 06:52:44 GMT

I guess in the past the number of kids I've had who had co-op'd before was enough for everything to come together easily....new district this year and the social skills are noticeably lower and it's like none of them *get* the purpose of working with a group. Looking for ANY teambuilder/classbuilder activities that would be appropriate for middle and/or high school so I can get these kids to be more of a cohesive group...

posted in Teachers - 6 replies

Mexican American lit

danigrrl — Tue, 07 Mar 2006 03:53:45 GMT

Hey anyone know good and appropriate mexican American Literature for highschool level (Victor Villasenior is one)?

posted in Teachers - 2 replies

Free screening for LA students!!

ARTIVIST "Merging Art & Activism" — Fri, 03 Nov 2006 09:30:39 GMT

Hi all I am helping to produce a film festival this year called the Artivist Film Festival (art + activism) and one of our sponsers has generously paided for the whole theatre so that students in the LA area could see a screening of the film, "Dear Mr. President" a film that encourages kids to get involved in the workings of their government. Maybe with enough films like this we can get the voter rate up huh?

The screening is at 10am at on November 10th at the Egyptian theatre in Hollywood. If you would be interested in bringing your class(es) let me know so that I could reserve some seats for you.

ciao ciao
Sunil

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

The Modern School Movement: Anarchism And Education In The United States

Colin — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 08:53:08 GMT

The Modern School Movement: Anarchism And Education In The United States
by Paul Avrich (Introduction by Barry Pateman)

I can't recommend this book enough. I love this book. It was my introduction to Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia and his Escuela Moderna. Check it out, 'tis a good read about what came earlier. A great read from a great author, now sadly missed due to his recent passing.

Based on extensive interviews with former pupils and teachers, this Pulitzer Prize-nominated work is a seminal and important investigation into the potential of educational alternatives. Between 1910 and 1960 anarchists across the United States established more than twenty schools where children might study in an atmosphere of freedom and self-reliance in contrast to the formality and discipline of the traditional classroom. These "Modern Schools" sought to abolish all forms of authority and to usher in a new society based on the voluntary cooperation of free individuals. Their object, during an era of war, social ferment, and government repression, was to create not only a new type of school, but also a new world. Among the participants were Emma Goldman, Margaret Sanger, Alexander Berkman, and artist Man Ray.
The first in a series of new editions bringing the work of Paul Avrich back into print, this book is widely considered (including by the author himself!) to be Avrich's finest work.

Available at
http://www.akpress.org/2004/items/modernschoolmovement

If you are ever bored, (I know I know - like teachers have down time) And are looking for something new to read, by all means take a look.

posted in Teachers - 1 reply

- Looking for a certified teacher, with experience in an alternative method of education, for the kids of PachaMama.

nareshlove — Sun, 22 Oct 2006 01:20:02 GMT

- Looking for a certified teacher, with experience in an alternative method of education, for the kids of PachaMama.

Please follow these links ,

www.pachamama.com

http://pachamama.com/PracticalInfo.asp?PageId=88

Love,Naresh

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

getting what you deserve

cooldawn — Sat, 14 Oct 2006 17:43:30 GMT

yup...I figure maybe one or two more 60 hour weeks before I can start finding time for a life again ;-)

I really like my job, but they needed alot more front end help than I realized - I was thinking I'd be able to spread stuff out a bit more over the course of the year. I've spent most of my time restructuring the two lowest level courses (ie kids who still can't add without counting on their fingers, don't know how to multiply, etc)....it's been tough pulling needed stuff together in such a short period of time, but the basic structure is now in place complete with TAs in the biggest/lowest level classes.

Here is my quandry.... this is not self sustaining. It won't be even close until an entire of year of curriculum has been developed. I am just a few weeks ahead of where these kids are in terms of "stuff for them to do". I can't justify continuing to spend this much extra time on curriculum development when I'm not being compensated for it and....big surprise here......it's hard for me to say I need/want <comp time, more money, etc> in exchange for all this extra stuff I'm doing. Has anyone been in this situation before? How does one tactfully approach this with one's superior?

My previous district gave me comp time on a per project basis - all rather unofficial, but it worked well. My current contract does not include anything related to curriculum, but I made a verbal agreement with the superintendent to help restructure the math program for the middle school grades. To me the big difference is I'm not helping - I'm doing it all. I'm one of those people that jumps right in and does what needs to be done, but have I undermined my own worth by not ransoming my services before I began this huge project?? Sorry, I think I'm just rambling now ;-)

posted in Teachers - 2 replies

physiological appropriateness

heidealist — Sat, 16 Sep 2006 15:18:19 GMT

so- what should one expect realistically from 10 year old bladders? Restroom requests are always difficult for me. Either I say NO and feel like a torturous sadist, or I'm spending all my class time deaing with it and feeling taken advantage of. What's realistic? It seems like once or twice a day is excessive, once or twice a month might not be enough. It also has to be fair AND I want it to reward those who go at recess/lunch and don't disrupt class time.

Ideas/opinions?

posted in Teachers - 8 replies

Important offer for teachers from Gary Null

Mesmer — Thu, 30 Mar 2006 01:27:08 GMT

garynull.com/store/product.php

This lecture (3 CD set) is amazing and Gary Null began last night offering it for free to any teacher in America. All you have to do is get hold of someone at Gary's website or call 646-505-4660 and give them your info where you teach and where to send this lecture. It will change the way you look at the children you are teaching and the system you are teaching in. The price is right, please take advantage of this offer, pass on this link to other teachers and school administrators. Thank you.

posted in Teachers - 6 replies

Creating a simple Web site to provide student material

ENIAD — Fri, 25 Aug 2006 13:06:24 GMT

I intended to create a minor website for students to download lessons. I was told it was simple but it would be better for me to learn minor Web conception since it is very expensive to hire someone to do it.
Front page was recommended but I read it is complicated to use.
Is Noma Web creator any easier? Can you recommend something for the real newbie?
Can simple downloadable material be integrated to the e-mail adress as I am told it can?

What do you use to provide more material for your students on the net?

posted in Teachers - 8 replies

SelfAwareness*~--ThinkingRevolution--;;Listening;;

stevencoolcat — Tue, 08 Aug 2006 20:59:20 GMT

http://sitepalace.com/StevenMannettetje/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/selfawarenessthinkingrevolutionlistening-
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/realize2actualize/

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

SelfAwareness*~--ThinkingRevolution--;;Listening;;

stevencoolcat — Tue, 08 Aug 2006 20:58:41 GMT

http://sitepalace.com/StevenMannettetje/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/selfawarenessthinkingrevolutionlistening-
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/realize2actualize/

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

HeLLo...what a happy little word.

Affinity — Wed, 02 Aug 2006 05:49:40 GMT

hello all! Just a little shout out to my comrades in arms...I 'm new here and just cruisin' the posts, enjoying the smart talk, shedding the school year asbestos residue. How's everyone's summer going so far?

posted in Teachers - 2 replies

New Tribe!

lindasdream — Sat, 29 Jul 2006 01:13:24 GMT

Hiya!
I teach English and Theater Arts and this fall, my new gig will be to develop a theater arts program from the ground up!!! I'm totally invested, so here is a link to my new tribe for us brave thespians!!!

http://tribes.tribe.net/theaterartseducation

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

classroom website

heidealist — Tue, 28 Mar 2006 06:07:26 GMT

Does anyone have a recommendation for a free/cheap web-hosting service that would be an appropriate place to put up some student work? I've been working with my computer club, and want to put up a website, but I'm not FTP literate, and only stumbly at HTML. Also, quick set-up would be a plus.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

*Heidi

posted in Teachers - 2 replies

Job Interview Tips?? or Finding a Job...

DeniseDenise — Tue, 13 Jun 2006 15:06:31 GMT

So I've personally sent out 20 resume's on very nice paper and envelopes. Had my resume/cover letter looked at by a principal and the career center at my university. I also handed out probably 35 resume's between two job fairs. I also have my info up on PAREAP, which is where most public schools in PA get their candidates.
I've had interviews with four schools. One school asked me back 2 more times but I havent heard back from them (though they offered a friend a job).
This is the first series of professional type interviews I've ever gone on so I'm a little wet behind the ears. What more can I do? What should I be doing to follow up? I hear 'thank you notes' are a good thing to send after an interview but what should I include/how should I write/send them? email, thank you card, letter??? Are there things you NEVER say on an interview? CAn you please give me some tips here? I need a job and don't want to be subbing in the fall.

Please, any advise would be great.

Thanks, Denise

posted in Teachers - 6 replies

Hi, I'm new here. Special Ed?

itsoktoplay — Tue, 25 Apr 2006 03:22:29 GMT

I'm currently working on my masters
in Education Leadership, school prin-
cipal type stuff, but am seriously con-
sidering a change to a dual cert. in
spec. ed. and elementary teaching.
I know that temperament is altogether
crucial and I get the profession as I
was a (behavioral) special ed student
in my middle school and secondary
years. Any of you out there that can
share your experiences or those of
your colleagues? peace. thanks.

posted in Teachers - 4 replies

Invitation to teach this summer in New Orleans

Acequia Carrie — Thu, 11 May 2006 23:17:37 GMT

Come Volunteer with the Kids and Community Collective!!

Common Ground Collective, New Orleans

June 5-July 31, 2006

Greetings from Kids and Community Collective! We would like to invite you to spend your summer volunteering in New Orleans supporting educational, recreational, and creative arts programs. We need energetic and compassionate folk to work with youth (preschool to middle-school aged) that need a chance at quality education. We are asking that you commit two months, June 5-July 31, have at least one year of experience working with youth, complete a criminal background check, and come with an open mind and open heart.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Carrie Staller

Volunteer Coordinator, Kids and Community Collective

cgkidsandcommunity@gmail.com

Common Ground's Mission:

Common Ground seeks to provide short-term relief for victims of hurricane disasters in the Gulf Coast region, and long-term support in rebuilding the communities affected in the New Orleans area. We are a community-initiated volunteer organization offering assistance, mutual aid, and support. The work gives hope to communities by working with them, providing for their immediate needs and emphasizing people working together to rebuild their lives in sustainable ways.

Kids and Community Summer Plans:

The Kids and Community Collective is a new extension of Common Ground Collective focused on supporting educational and recreational opportunities for the youth of New Orleans. We are seeking 50 committed and experienced volunteers to work with New Orleans youth through this summer co-teaching creative arts programs, recreation, academics, and various other disciplines. The program is designed to support local neighborhood-run summer school programs and community-run childcare

centers by providing qualified volunteers that have had experience working with children. We will be supporting and mentoring pre-school through middle-school aged children who are predominantly low-income, youth of color, and have gone through incredulous amounts of stress and

trauma over the past year.

Our Expectations:

We are seeking candidates who have at least one year of experience working with children. Every volunteer is required to attend a 6-day orientation which begins on June 6th, 2006, that will include

trainings, workshops, and conversations around anti-racist action/teachings, grief/crisis skills, working with children with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), stress management and local history/politics. Volunteers will participate in the ongoing conversations around power relations, racism, privilege and the meaning of being a volunteer and guest in New Orleans. Volunteers must be very flexible, willing to go with the flow and accept last-minute changes, willing to receive and give feedback, and understand that we are working to meet the needs of the community, they are not here for our benefit or experience.

What You Can Expect:

Volunteers should anticipate working 40+ hours/week. Communal housing and meals are provided. Volunteers need to provide their own bedding, clothing, toiletries, spending money and laundry. We are currently investigating supplementary employment opportunities for volunteers who would otherwise not be able to attend. Volunteers are encouraged to bring a bike and a car. Every volunteer needs to be prepared that any category 2 hurricane in the entire gulf region will result in a mandatory evacuation of the city, and it is the personal responsibility of each volunteer to have their own evacuation plan and/or car to get out of the city.

Short-Term Opportunities:

We have received many inquiries from individuals who wish to come for only two weeks or a month of our program and have an extensive background and training in education and would make a wonderful

addition to our staff. Unfortunately, at this time we are not able to accept volunteers who are unable to commit to the duration of the summer program, June 5th-July 31st. Housing is extremely limited and

our biggest priority is to provide stability to the children and teachers we support. If you are able to arrange your own accommodations and transportation and can stay for at least one month, continue to

check the website for short-term opportunities. Currently we are in need of experienced grantwriters and fundraisers who can work from their own home. There are many other programs within Common Ground that are able to utilize volunteers who can come for at least two weeks. Please go to Commongroundrelief.org for current opportunities. If you are interested in grant writing or fundraising, please e-mail cgkidsandcommunity@gmail.com and put "grantwriter" or "fundraiser"

in your subject line.

Important Dates:

Application Deadline: May 20th, 2006

Check in for mandatory orientation: Monday June 5th

Orientation: Tuesday June 6th - Sat June 10th

Schools start: Monday June 12th

To Apply:

www.kidsandcommunity.org/summervol.html

We apologize for not being able to provide more advanced notice for this program. Common Ground is working alongside many other non-profits to help New Orleans recover from one of the worst national disasters in history and we are making the most of the limited resources we have. Your participation in our Summer Program will make a huge impact on the lives of the children and residents who are trying to rebuild their lives and homes in New Orleans.

Contact Information:

If you have additional questions, please visit our website, www.kidsandcommunity.org . You can also e-mail us at cgkidsandcommunity.org If you would like information on other volunteer opportunities within Common Ground, please visit www.commongroundrelief.org , and don't hesitate to explore the numerous relief efforts throughout the gulf coast. Help is greatly needed and very appreciated.

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

transplant teachers - what did CA make you do?

cooldawn — Thu, 04 May 2006 00:18:31 GMT

based on years of experience and current credentials, I've got a one year transitional CA credential. I know I've got to take the CSET, but is there anything else I'll need to do? So far I've gotten really vague answers from my hiring school and the state website isn't very informative either. Has anyone in here that's "highly qualified" under NCLB with more than 5 years experience done this?

thanks,
Dawn

PS Don't want to hear year alt. cert. or "moved to CA with less than 5 years experience" nightmares - that doesn't apply here.

posted in Teachers - 5 replies

New Tribe: Education for Liberation

tortuga — Sat, 29 Apr 2006 22:58:50 GMT

There is a new tribe called Education for Liberation hoping to discuss education for change and empowerment. This tribe is open to ALL and intended for those interested in using education as a vehicle for transforming and liberating the world. This tribe is highly inspired by the work of Paulo Freire and is not only for educators, but for all who live and learn.

Check it out:
tribes.tribe.net/education4liberation

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

my favorite kind of day

cooldawn — Thu, 23 Feb 2006 00:30:12 GMT

I love running into former students around town - always a nice surprise, ya know? Anyway...today I ran into three of them as I was running errands. I always enjoy seeing the adults they've grown into and hearing about their accomplishments - I am so proud of them!

posted in Teachers - 15 replies

come dance & raise some $ for the leukemia society wednesday april 5th

dro — Tue, 04 Apr 2006 21:00:50 GMT

come spend happy hour with us at shine and help raise some $ for the Leukemia Society.

For details checkk out the eVite:

this wehttp://www.evite.com/pages/invite/viewInvite.jsp?event=UKNHIQGEYZXUIIWSLAJZ

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

Free Audio ESL Lessons

acohen843 — Fri, 17 Mar 2006 01:16:50 GMT

I post free audio ESL lessons on my blog, AskIt HearIt (askit-hearit.blogspot.com). This is part of my project to explore the Internet as a tool for teaching English as a Second Language. Please share your thoughts with me.

Sincerely,
Alan

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

Leukemia Fundraiser

dro — Sat, 11 Mar 2006 16:45:34 GMT

Hi there!

I am raising money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. This is a very important cause and I'm asking you to help by making a contribution! Please use the link in this email to donate online quickly & securely. You will receive email confirmation of your donation and I will be notified as soon as you make your donation. I thank you in advance for your support, and really appreciate your generosity!!

http://www.active.com/donate/mchsvmb/isidro

Please forward this email to as many people as you can to encourage them to donate as well!

Isidro Alvarez
www.castillolends.com -Your dream. Our purpose.

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

multiculturalism in the classroom....PLEASE READ!

melissainferrera — Mon, 23 Jan 2006 00:11:55 GMT

hello all! i am a first grade teacher in new jersey. this year we are really concentrating in exposing the children to "multiculturalism." i was thinking about starting a tribe specific to incorporating multiculturalism in the classroom...a place for teachers to share ideas, etc. would anyone be interested? or does anyone have any ideas for me?

also, are there any teachers in here from other countries? i would love to maybe make some "pen pal" classerooms from around the world. so maybe we could just communicate through here to each other and share the emails, information, etc. with each others classes. let me know if you would be interested in that!

posted in Teachers - 3 replies

Being observed... Suggestions anyone!?

DeannaLeigh — Fri, 24 Feb 2006 01:50:49 GMT

Hey all!!

I am being observed next ween (I am an intern teaching grade K) and am doing a math lesson for my observation. I am wanting to do a lesson that is working with teen numbers and have done a few already on teen numbers but wanting to get some suggestions on some good teen # lessons for my observation... THANKS!! :o)

posted in Teachers - 5 replies

8th grade education

jmparker — Tue, 11 Oct 2005 18:21:12 GMT

I found this, sourceless, on the web:

What it took to get an 8th grade education in 1895

--Remember when grandparents and great-grandparents stated that they only had an 8th grade education? Well, check this out. Could any of us have passed the 8th grade in 1895?
This is the eighth-grade final exam from 1895 in Salina, Kansas, USA. It was taken from the original document on file at the Smokey Valley Genealogical Society and Library in Salina, KS, and reprinted by the Salina Journal.

8th Grade Final Exam: Salina, KS -1895
Grammar (Time, one hour)

1. Give nine rules for the use of capital letters.
2. Name the parts of speech and define those that have no modifications.
3. Define verse, stanza and paragraph
4. What are the principal parts of a verb? Give principal parts of"lie,""play," and "run."
5. Define case; Illustrate each case.
6 What is punctuation? Give rules for principal marks of punctuation.
7 - 10. Write a composition of about 150 words and show therein that you understand the practical use of the rules of grammar.

Arithmetic (Time, 1.25 hours)

1. Name and define the Fundamental Rules of Arithmetic.
2. A wagon box is 2 ft. deep, 10 feet long, and 3 ft. wide. How many bushels of wheat will it hold?
3. If a load of wheat weighs 3942 lbs., what is it worth at 50cts/bushel, deducting 1050 lbs. for tare?
4. District No. 33 has a valuation of $35,000. What is the necessary levy to carry on a school seven months at $50 per month, and have $104 for incidentals?
5. Find the cost of 6720 lbs. coal at $6.00 per ton.
6. Find the interest of $512.60 for 8 months and 18 days at 7 percent.
7. What is the cost of 40 boards 12 inches wide and 16 ft. long at $20 per metre?
8. Find bank discount on $300 for 90 days (no grace) at 10 percent.
9. What is the cost of a square farm at $15 per acre, the distance of which is 640 rods?
10. Write a Bank Check, a Promissory Note, and a Receipt.

U.S. History (Time, 45 minutes)

1. Give the epochs into which U.S. History is divided.
2. Give an account of the discovery of America by Columbus.
3. Relate the causes and results of the Revolutionary War.
4. Show the territorial growth of the United States.
5. Tell what you can of the history of Kansas.
6. Describe three of the most prominent battles of the Rebellion.
7. Who were the following: Morse, Whitney, Fulton, Bell, Lincoln, Penn, and Howe?
8. Name events connected with the following dates: 1607, 1620, 1800, 1849, 1865.

Orthography (Time, one hour) Do we even know what this is??

1. What is meant by the following: Alphabet, phonetic, orthography, etymology, syllabication
2. What are elementary sounds? How classified?
3. What are the following, and give examples of each: Trigraph, subvocals, diphthong, cognate letters, linguals
4. Give four substitutes for caret 'u.' (HUH?)
5. Give two rules for spelling words with final 'e.' Name two exceptions under each rule.
6. Give two uses of silent letters in spelling. Illustrate each.
7. Define the following prefixes and use in connection with a word: bi, dis, mis, pre, semi, post, non, inter, mono, sup.
8. Mark diacritically and divide into syllables the following, and name the sign that indicates the sound: card, ball, mercy, sir, odd, cell, rise, blood, fare, last.
9. Use the following correctly in sentences: cite, site, sight, fane, fain, feign, vane, vain, vein, raze, raise, rays.
10. Write 10 words frequently mispronounced and indicate pronunciation by use of diacritical marks and by syllabication.

Geography (Time, one hour)

1 What is climate? Upon what does climate depend?
2. How do you account for the extremes of climate in Kansas?
3. Of what use are rivers? Of what use is the ocean?
4. Describe the mountains of North America
5. Name and describe the following: Monrovia, Odessa, Denver, Manitoba, Hecla, Yukon, St. Helena, Juan Fernandez, Aspinwall and Orinoco.
6. Name and locate the principal trade centers of the U.S.
7. Name all the republics of Europe and give the capital of each.
8. Why is the Atlantic Coast colder than the Pacific in the same latitude?
9. Describe the process by which the water of the ocean returns to the sources of rivers.
10. Describe the movements of the earth. Give the inclination of the earth.

Notice that the exam took FIVE HOURS to complete.

posted in Teachers - 4 replies

Educational Leadership

itsoktoplay — Tue, 14 Feb 2006 17:58:08 GMT

anyone here in or completed this type of grad program? I currently doing my masters at DePaul and I've been in proprietary higher ed for several years now. The program is really desgned for those seeking a type 75 (Illinois) that is, principalship. But my goal is to use it for school operations type work, maybe corporate. Any ideas? thanks - patrick

posted in Teachers - 3 replies

pop quiz

jmparker — Fri, 25 Nov 2005 16:38:58 GMT

Do you let students turn in "make-up" work if they come to class late the day of a pop quiz?

posted in Teachers - 13 replies

"world" wide web?

melissainferrera — Fri, 27 Jan 2006 01:17:18 GMT

hello all!

i am having the worst time thinking of fun activities to learn about colombia...for first graders. there isn't many web sites that are geared towards first graders for the country at all. does anyone have any ideas or suggestions?

in may our school has a multicultural fair and each classroom represents a country. i would like to begin some things now so it isn't so overwhelming for them in may.

thanks!

posted in Teachers - 1 reply

link to new tribe!

melissainferrera — Mon, 23 Jan 2006 00:36:25 GMT

http://tribes.tribe.net/multiculturalclassrooms

here is the link. i decided to just make the tribe. hope to see you all soon!

-melissa

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

New tribe for Outdoor Educators

DarklingThrush — Thu, 19 Jan 2006 19:54:16 GMT

I started a new tribe for Outdoor, Experiential, Environmental, and/or Adventure Educators. A place to share ideas and resources so we can do what we do even better. Anyone who works to get people outdoors and learning is invited. Or anyone who thinks this is a something they would like to do.

I am currently a Wilderness Instructor for Outward Bound Discovery. I have also worked for the Sierra Club, Student Conservation Association, and Sound Experience. I would love to connect with others from these organizations, but would also love to hear from some of you who have worked for others, so we can cross-pollenate (woo-hoo! lol).

http://tribes.tribe.net/outdooreducators?_click_path=Application%5Btribe%5D.Tribe%5B3a95e939-c843-4579-b2a2-e8cb7e01be78%5D

posted in Teachers - 0 replies

Another master's degree question

David — Tue, 10 Jan 2006 00:00:28 GMT

Should I get a master's in Science Education with my goal of becoming a super science teacher at the jr./sr. high level…

or

should I get my master's in Administration with my other possible goal of becoming the principal at a small elementary school in a low income area?

or does it really matter?
-dd

posted in Teachers - 11 replies

Get Ready for English

MongoShrug — Sun, 08 Jan 2006 02:50:49 GMT

Does anyone else have to teach this crap?
We just got a new "curriculum" called "Get Ready for English" which is supposed to be taught to all ELs for 30 minutes a day. The program is colorful, expensive, horseshit. Knowing what publishers get, I wouldn't be surprised if the set I got was $500. Posters, teachers books, student books, CDs, shiny boxes. Each class got one. Rather than create an EL companion to each of the present curricular textbooks, they bought a big box of crap. It's state wide in CA, I believe. Or it could be just San Francisco USD. I"m not sure. On what planet do teachers have 30 minutes a day to teach ELs a whole new program?
I don't know Bush's exact relationship with which publishers, but I know it's dirty and the reason why we get junk like this. It's extremely profitable.

posted in Teachers - 2 replies

"Intelligent Design" ruling

mikela — Thu, 22 Dec 2005 02:23:24 GMT

A real victory for science education. Judge Jones explains the mechanisms of science as well as any textbook. The ruling is long, but its agreat read. Here's the link:
http://news.findlaw.com/hdocs/docs/educate/ktzmllrdvr122005opn.pdf

posted in Teachers - 5 replies

Body odor

MongoShrug — Sat, 15 Oct 2005 05:49:44 GMT

I teach 5th grade, and I had trouble helping one of my special needs students because of body odor. I have noticed it before, but it is getting more difficult. Obviously, I'm not concerned only for my own comfort. What can I do to help?

posted in Teachers - 16 replies

Online Master's Degree

David — Thu, 29 Dec 2005 04:51:33 GMT

Does anybody have any good experiences with online degrees?
I'm just starting my search.
The most basic questions I have are (in order of importance):
• Is it worth it? or should I just take a year off, go to a reputable institution [and get some more water wings to help me stay afloat in all my debt.]
• How I do I know the value of the accreditation?
• Besides the accredidation, how do I know that the program is a worthwhile one and people will take it seriously when they see it on my resumé? (Is there a ranking of online degree programs alá U.S. News and World Report?)
• Where can I get testimonials from current or former students of a program to see if they like it...
I know there's a lot of wisdom out there, drop it on me.
-dd

posted in Teachers - 4 replies

math failure rates

cooldawn — Thu, 22 Dec 2005 21:20:11 GMT

First off, let me say that I've have always voluntarily taught at least one (usually two) remedial math classes per year. Depending on the area, typical failure rate runs 30-50 percent in those classes - some kids fail because their skills are so poor that one semester isn't enough to magically get them all the way up to grade level and some kids fail because they need a serious kick in the butt (rarely attend, don't turn stuff in, etc). Anyway....I turned in my failure sheets for the semester and was called into the office because I had "too many failures". I grabbed my gradebook and we went through kid by kid (thank goodness I keep good records) and while each failure was well documented with attempted interventions and parent contacts, I was still told I had "too many". I asked if they just wanted me to pass them for showing up.....she didn't answer me verbally, but I was given a look like "YES!!!" What kind of favor do they think they are doing these kids?

<end rant>

So who else in here teaches high school math? What typical failure rates do you see in your remedial or low level classes? Do you feel pressure to pass students who fall notedly below standards set for that class?

posted in Teachers - 9 replies

Advice for a Texan

BluePickleBicycle — Fri, 16 Dec 2005 19:11:14 GMT

Hey Y'all,

I have a quick but complicated question that maybe somebody could offer some advice on. I want to do an alternative certification program this summer and hopefully start teaching the fall. There are several colleges in this area that offer one and as I sub the district here I could probably get a job in the fall. The problem is that I really want to move back to SF and teach there. (I live in Texas) Should I do the program here and teach for a year, get my Texas credentials and then move and try to transfer them to California or should I go out to CA and get certified there this summer instead? pros? cons? advice? I want to do K-5. Gracias. Much love.

posted in Teachers - 9 replies

Suspected Abuse/Neglect HELP

DeniseDenise — Sat, 05 Nov 2005 07:33:37 GMT

Hi, I'm cross-posting this so I can get as many ideas as possible.
Please tell me if I'm overreacting because I'm just new to this or what.
I really don't know the ropes so I'm trying to get some ideas from you if you have any. thanks in advance.

I am in the practicum phase of my education. I'll graduate in May.
the teacher I am under yells constantly and shows little affect to her kids. I am learning at least how not to teach.
Oh, It's in a ghetto school. the 2nd grade class is all black except for one Puerto Rican boy.

A few concerns that I would like some suggestions on how to deal with PLEASE:
A boy, We'll call Tom, has a growth on his lips. On first sight I'd say they are genital warts. though I am not a Dr. or trained in this stuff. I've seen them before and they are warts.
I told the teacher I had concerns that if they are warts- the other kids could get them, or SHE could get them, and maybe she could send him to the nurse for a quick check. She shrugged her shoulders and said "I dont know" which basically meant "I dont care".
I only pitched it to her that way because my practicum teacher warned me of diagnosing such things and suggested I offer my concerns that way.
The teacher has not done anything.
The other morning. Tom asked "when are we going to have breakfast?" (they had been fed in the AM for 1 week while the other kids had testing) I said that that breakfast week is over. He said he hadent eaten that morning, and the only thing he had to eat yesterday was halloween candy.
I told the teacher and she shrugged again as if it wasnt her problem.
This child is being neglected at the least and possibly sexually abused (how do you get genital warts on your mouth at the age of 8???) He cries at the drop of a hat (or the scream of a teacher) and really doesnt interact with the other kids at all.
My practicum teacher says these things are at the discression of the teacher and the only thing I can do is tell her, then leave it rest.

I did that, the teacher is doing nothing and I feel like shit. I want to go to the principal of the school but dont want to overstep my boundaries. How can I get this child the attention he needs without causing political upheaval in this place which has so graciously allowed me and a few other practicum students to come in once a week to teach.
I really dont want to go out of the line, but do want to get him help, or at least have him see a nurse.

Is this kind of thing normal in ghetto schools? (I use that term literally, I havent seen ANY white or non-black kids other than the one Puerto rican in the class).
What would you do? Should I write an anonymous letter? Mention it in passing to the Principal, tell the leaders at my university?????????????
Please help.
Thanks for any factual info, or helpful hints.

Thanks,
Signed,
Fretting in Philly

posted in Teachers - 10 replies

the sub

jmparker — Tue, 20 Sep 2005 14:33:03 GMT

I'm going to be gone for a week, and will have a sub.
Thing is, my students are doing presentations all through the semester, and some of them are sure to do theirs when the sub is there - too many students not to.

I'm kind of worried the sub and I won't grade the presentations the same. AND worried the students will complain about this if there's a big discrepancy in the grades of the students who present while I'm out.

Any advice?

posted in Teachers - 10 replies