Approaching 31 Years Teaching! Share YOUR Passion!

10 Ways To Help You Save Fuel

2011-09-04T13:04:00.000-07:00

Back to school commute time again. If you're like me here in Jersey my commute time is about 30 minutes one way. Having the summer away from teaching helps to minimize gasoline costs.
Here are some gas-saving tips for you! HAVE A GREAT YEAR TEACHING.
Parents, now you can enjoy 9 months of daytime quiet time.

10 WAYS TO HELP YOU SAVE FUEL

1. TUNE UP: Properly tuning your engine can improve fuel economy by as much as 4%. Fixing a serious issue, such as faulty oxygen sensor - can boost mileage up to 40%.

2. PUMP UP: Properly inflated tires improve gas mileage by up to 3.3%

3. UNPACK: An extra 100 pounds of cargo reduces fuel economy up to 2%. A loaded roof rack cuts fuel economy by up to 5%.

4. SLOW DOWN: Gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. Every 5 mph over 60 mph is like adding as additional 29 cents per gallon for gas.

5. AVOID IDLING: A car gets 0 mpg when the engine is idling.

6. CHILL OUT: Speeding, rapid acceleration and braking can lower gas mileage by 33% on the highway and 5% in city driving.

7. PUT IT IN OVERDRIVE: Using an overdrive gear on the highway saves both fuel and engine wear.

8. UNCLOG: Replacing a severely plugged air filter on an older car with a carbureted engine improves fuel economy by up to 14%.

9. USE THE RIGHT OIL: Using the manufacturer's recommended grade of oil improves fuel economy by 1%-2%.

10. PLAN YOUR TRIPS: Plan routes and timing to avoid heavy periods of traffic congestion.

2011-07-21T16:21:00.000-07:00

enjoying summer vacation contemplating european trip to Netherlands and Prague considering i went twice last year.Looking forward to my 31st years of teaching. Dumbell workout twice weekly. Summer vacation is off season training. Use it to prepare for sept. its all about the ever changing health benefits. stay fit. eat healthy.

10 Ways to Send a Clear Message to Your Teenager

2011-02-20T13:09:00.000-08:00

As a teacher and parent (my son is now age 30) I found that effective communication is the key in communicating with your teen. It is a learn as you go kind of thing as you know things change from day to day with teens, whether as a teacher or as a parent.

A sure-fire way of inviting problems into your relationship with your teenager is by sending mixed or unclear messages. Clear communication is an absolute must if you want to have a bonding relationship with your teenager. It helps to build a foundation of trust, fosters a healthy self-esteem, encourages positive behavior, and helps tone down frustration and stress in the family.

While many parents feel it is close to impossible to have a conversation with their teenager, there are ways. Your child really isn't becoming a new special breed of alien. They're just growing up and they still do want to connect with you. Try these tips to get, and keep, the conversation rolling in your home.

1. Use your active listening skills and watch out for those door slammers.

2. Talk often with your teen to bring out positive opinions, ideals, and behaviors by using an

affirmative tone and body language.

3. Treat your teenager with the same respect you would have them treat you. Say, 'hi', I love

you', 'how was your day', etc.

4. Your tone of voice is extremely important. Yelling simply doesn't work. The loud noise will

shut down the listener (your teen) and you will not get through. If you feel the need to yell,

'time out' of the conversation until you have better control.

5. Be precise and detailed about what you expect. Write it down and use an Action Plan if you

feel there is a need.

6. If you're giving your teenager instructions, write them down. It's a fail-safe for teens and

adults. This way they will remember what they are expected to do and you can feel sure that

you "told" them correctly. Remember, to-do lists will keep you stress free.

7. Do things together one-on-one and with the whole family. Good times often bring about great

conversations, and wonderful memories.

8. 'Do as I say, not as I do' doesn't work. Modeling is the best way of learning. You are your

teenager's model and they will emulate your behaviors.

9. Never shut your teen out to show that you disapprove of their behavior. If you need time

before you can talk to them about something that has upset you, tell them that you need

time. Don't walk away silent.

10. "Because I said so" actually works when you are being pulled into a power struggle in

discipline situations. You are the parent, and because of this, you do have the final say.

Teenagers know this and trust you because of it. But do try to explain your reasoning

whenever possible.

Should you need more related information about or pertaining to this topic please go to:

https://educatorpeopleshops.com/ Please browse our site for all of your daily and future needs.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

2011-01-17T06:23:00.000-08:00

Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Here is an excerpt from his famous "I Have a Dream" speech, made on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in August 1963, which continues to inspire us nearly 48 years later.

"Let freedom ring...And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring - when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children - black men and white men, Jews and gentiles, Protestants and Catholics - will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual: "Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!"

Teacher inservice today (weather permitting)

2011-01-11T06:07:00.000-08:00

Book study session. Motivating Black Males to Achieve In School and Life. The author, Baruti K. Kafele, will lead the discussion. However, 8-12 inches of snow is anticipated today. Hope we can get through today. Hope school is not closed tomorrow. Next Monday is Martin Luther King Day (no school in Jersey) however if my district is closed tomorrow, Monday is the make-up day.

Here we snow again.

2011-01-10T19:10:00.000-08:00

Have a great workshop tomorrow but 8 - 12 inches is on the way. Just had 3 inches Saturday. And a foot two weeks ago. May get postponed. Would be great for me. Last little snow cost me two hours (10 minute trip) in my car. Perhaps i can get home before it get messy.

Snow, snow, snow.

2011-01-08T17:02:00.000-08:00

Beautiful start to Saturday morning. Woke up to more snow; however only received 2 inches today. Another storm arrives next Tuesday. Fortunately all of our snow this winter has occurred on holidays or weekends. However, that may change next week.
Great day to stay indoors (after shoveling) to get caught up on reading with my Kindle. What a great e-reading device.

Cell Phones in School: Embrace Them or Ban Them

2010-12-04T08:25:00.000-08:00

What do you think? Cell phones in schools is certainly a controversial issue that administrators and staff face on a daily basis. It seems that virtually every school takes a different stance on the issue of cell phones in schools. No matter what your school's policy is, there is no way to completely keep all students from bringing their phones to our schools and into the classroom.

However, a cell phone can be a powerful educational tool. Smart phones especially have the ability to provide students with so much information that teachers cannot deny that they can be powerful technological tools in the classroom.

Perhaps it is time to move into the 21st century and begin using the resources we have available to engage our students in the learning process more readily.

What do you think? Embrace them or Ban them? Comments welcome.

Student Swearing. Out of control?

2010-11-18T06:04:00.000-08:00

Do you cringe when you hear those terrible 4 letter words spoken by students? in the classroom, hallways, cafeteria, auditorium? Do you respond or ignore? Here, at my high school, I respond immediately and talk about it being inappropriate; and don't let me hear it again.

Is student swearing out of control in your building? What is your school policy? What do you do when you hear those inappropriate words?

Comments welcome!

In School Suspension: Maintain or Eliminate?

2010-11-14T12:43:00.000-08:00

In school suspension has been a consistent duty for me annually. Its a great duty because you get to meet kids (not the best circumstances) that you normally would not meet. I realize that some districts do without ISS. Never-the-less students are sent to this classroom by their teacher as a result of a variety of student infractions. They remain there for the remainder of class period depending on the infraction and also seen by an administrator who then decides on the consequences. Comments welcome.

Does In School Suspension work ? Maintain it or terminate it? What do you think?

Keynote Speaker Teachers Convention 2010

2010-11-07T15:34:00.000-08:00

Great session. Very powerful words on "mentoring". This was the highlight of the convention.

Teachers Convention Atlantic City 2010

2010-11-07T15:28:00.000-08:00

Partial skyline of Atlantic City

NJEA Convention 2010 Atlantic City

2010-11-07T15:20:00.000-08:00

Trump Taj Mahal Hotel and Casino on the boardwalk.

NJEA Teachers Convention

2010-11-04T03:57:00.000-07:00

Off to Atlantic City for New Jersey Teachers Convention. Rainy all day with a temp of 50 degrees.

Who dares to teach must never cease to learn ~ John Cotton Dana

156th NJEA Convention In Atlantic City

2010-11-02T21:33:00.000-07:00

I will be among roughly 50,000 New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) members from across the state attending November 4-5 2010.

The New Jersey Education Association is the state's largest association of education professionals, representing nearly 200,000 elementary and secondary teachers, administrators, higher education faculty, education support professionals, retired educators, and students preparing to become teachers.

As usual the convention features over 300 professional development seminars, workshops, and programs.

How To Create a Restroom Pass System For Class

2010-10-30T19:37:00.000-07:00

This system will cause a lot of headaches to go away. You will find that student requests to use the restroom will definitely decrease.

Difficulty: Average

Time Required: 30 minutes

Here's How:

1. Purchase a small plastic index card holder.

2. At the beginning of the school year/semester, give each student a 3x5 index card

3. On the lined side, have the students write any information you wish to keep on record about them. For example, address, phone number, schedule.

4. On the unlined side, have the students divide the card into four equal areas.

5. In the upper right corner of each area, have the students write the numbers 1,2,3, and 4 which stands for each quarter of the year.

6. In each area of the pass, have the students label a row across the top with a D (Date), T (Time), and I (Initial).

7. Decide how many passes you are going to give the students each quarter. Three seems like a good number.

8. Along the left side of each area, have the students number for each bathroom pass you are allowing per quarter. For example, 1,2,3.

9. Place the cards by period with dividers into the plastic card holder and show the students where you are going to keep it.

10. Explain your rules about appropriate and innappropriate times to use the restroom.

11. Tell students that each time they wish to use the restroom, they are to get their card, fill it out except for the initial.

12. Explain that if a student loses their card then they will not be able to use the restroom for the rest of the quarter.

Tips:

1. These passes include trips to the locker, other classes, etc.

2. If you wish, you could offer extra points to those who use no passes during a quarter.

Restroom Use. Dealing with Trips to the Bathroom During Class

2010-10-30T18:53:00.000-07:00

How do you handle request from students to go to the bathroom during class? Every so often you will see a news story that focuses on a teacher who did not let a child use the bathroom during class causing them to have an embarrassing accident. Restroom use during class is a sticky issue that deserves some thought so that you do not end up on the news. Each one of us has experienced sitting in a meeting when they have to really use the restroom. People retain less information when they are focused on their need to relieve themselves. Therefore, it is important that you provide a way for students to use the restroom but at the same time maintain control within your classroom.

Issues with Restroom Use

A couple of issues exist that cause teachers to be wary of using the restroom whenever they see fit during class.

- it can be very disruptive. One of the most annoying things to a teacher is when they are trying to hold a classroom discussion and when they call on a student who has raised their hand, the only thing they do is ask if they can go to the bathroom.
-It can be easily abused. Every teacher has encountered a student who does not have a medical issue yet who asks to go to the bathroom each and every day.
-roaming the halls is not acceptable. Most schools have strict policies concerning who can be out of class. This helps the school maintain control and keeps disruption to other classes to a minimum. You don't want to be in the hot seat by allowing too many students to leave your class at once or by having your students cause a problem when they are supposed to be in your class.

Ideals to Help Control Restroom Use

What can you do to allow students to go to the bathroom when they really need to but at the same time maintain control?

-Make it a policy that only one student can go to the bathroom at a time from your class. This relieves the problem of having too many students out at once.
-Give students a time limit to the amount of time they are allowed out. This will help cut down on students taking advantage of leaving the class. You will need to come up with a discipline plan associated with this to help with enforcement.
-Institute a policy that students cannot ask to go to the restroom until you are at your desk or at a minimum not addressing the entire class. This is fine but remember that if a student has a medical issue of which you have been informed then they should be allowed to leave when it is
necessary. You might want to consider creating a special pass for them for this purpose.
-Track who is going each day if you think there is an issue. If a student is abusing the privilege talk to them about it. If this does not stop the behavior, call and talk to their parents. I know if situations where a student was abusing the privilege each day without a medical reason. When the teacher denied them the ability to go one day, the parents called and complained causing a lot of problems for this particular teacher. A call to the parents before instituting the policy with that student could have helped because they would not have been getting the story just from their child.

Opening Day of School For Students

2010-09-07T17:13:00.000-07:00

Successful opening today. How was your school?

School Year 2010 - Staff Report

2010-09-01T14:37:00.000-07:00

Let the new year begin.

Summer Vacation

2010-08-04T19:56:00.000-07:00

Summer breeze......makes me feel fine...Just saw those 3 dreaded words: "back to school."

Last full day of school!

2010-06-10T10:42:00.001-07:00

Yes, today is the last full day of school as finals begin tomorrow. Summer is approaching. Yessssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss!!

3rd Snow Storm This Month Approaching

2010-02-24T06:36:00.000-08:00

Well, well, well, here we go again. Another foot of snow is due to arrive by midnight. I still have a foot of snow on the ground from the previous storm. I have already lost two days (President's Day and Memorial Day) to snow and this storm will result in days taken from spring break. Oh well, mother nature is in control. How many days till Spring?

Happy Birthday to me

2010-01-26T11:25:00.001-08:00

Happy 54 years young!

10 Things Parents Wish Schools/Teachers Would Do

2009-12-28T10:21:00.000-08:00

Okay, let's get started.

1. Build children's self-esteem by using praise generously and avoiding ridicule and negative public criticism.

2. Get to know each child's needs, interests, and special talents, as well as the way each child learns best.

3. Communicate often and openly with parents, contacting them early about academic or behavioral problems and being candid, rather than defensive, when discussing these problems.

4. Regularly assign homework that helps children learn, and advise parents how they can work with their children on this homework.

5. Set high academic standards, expecting all children to learn and helping them do so.

6. Care about children, since children learn best when taught by warm, friendly, caring, and enthusiastic teachers.

7. Treat all children fairly and do not play favorites.

8. Enforce a positive discipline code based on clear and fair rules that are established at the beginning of each school year; reinforce positive behavior rather than punish negative behavior.

9. Vary teaching methods and make learning fun.

10. Encourage parent participation by reaching out to involve parents in their children's education, showing them how they can help their children at home, and remembering that parents want to work with teachers to help their children do their best.

10 Things Schools/Teachers Wish Parents Would Do

2009-12-28T09:39:00.000-08:00

Okay, let's get right to it.

1. Establish a daily routine, including healthy eating and sleeping

habits.

2. Build their child's self-esteem by expressing interest in the child's schoolwork and affirming

the child's worth through positive messages.

3. Communicate openly with the school and contact the school when they are aware of issues

concerning their child's school success.

4. Set high and realistic standards for their child.

5. Check on homework regularly and ask questions about their child's work.

6. Read or talk with their child. Connect everyday experiences to what is being learned in

school.

7. Express high but realistic expectations for their child.

8. Use community learning opportunities. Expose their child to the library, museums, the

theatre, concerts, etc. Encourage their child to join clubs, scouts, after-school sports or

fine arts, and other community programs.

9. Monitor out-of-school activities and set expectations for appropriate behavior.

10. Model learning at home by playing games, reading newspapers or magazines, and discussing

current events.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2009-12-23T14:58:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all...teachers, parents, students, educators.

http://educatorpeopleshops.com/

Do You Love Mondays?

2009-12-14T06:33:00.000-08:00

Yes, today is Monday. Of course, Monday is not my favorite day of the week. Yes, you guessed it. It's Friday. However, another Monday means its closer to another Friday.
Here's a suggestion. What do you think about this? Extend the weekend to Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. The week will be from Tuesday - Friday. Talk about a short week.

Do's and Don'ts for Successful Parent-Teacher Conferences

2009-11-04T06:30:00.000-08:00

Parent-Teacher conferences, handled correctly, are an opportunity to form a cooperative team for the school year. You will need each student's parents on your side in order to have the maximum positive impact on learning.

Follow these guidelines and you'll be on the right track:

Do's

Give parents plenty of notice. Remember that parents have busy and challenging work schedules. The more notice you give them, the more likely they will be able to attend the Parent-Teacher Conference.

Start and end the Parent-Teacher Conference on a positive note. Remember that parents are often nervous too. Set them at ease by starting off with your positive observations of their child. After you've explained some areas of improvement, finish the conference off with more things the parents can feel good about. This goes a long way toward creating a positive working relationship with them.

Be organized. Fill out a pre-conference form for each student, complete with space for your notes and follow-up issues. The conference may be your first impression on the parents, and your organization will inspire confidence in your abilities to help their child this year.

Listen actively. When the parents speak, concentrate and really hear what they are trying to communicate to you. You may even want to takes notes. When parents feel heard, you are setting up a cooperative relationship for the coming school year.

Have samples of student work to back up your points. When discussing specific learning goals for the student, show the the parents what you observed in the classroom that shows a need for improvement. On the flip side, you can also show samples of work well done, so they can see how much the students are learning with you.

Give the parents homework. Think of 2-3 customized tasks that the parents can do at home to help their child learn this school year. It may not always happen as you hope, but it's worth a shot. Offer worksheets, websites, and tools to support their efforts.

Call in the principal for touchy situations. Sometimes teachers need to call for backup. If a specific set of parents have already showed some hostility towards you, a trusted administrator can act as a facilitator who has everyone's best interests at heart. Moreover, the principal can act as a witness for you, if the tone of the conference starts to sour.

Don'ts

Don't stray from the topic at hand. It's easy for conversations to wander off into fun topics, such as shared interests. But remember why you are having this conference in the first place and keep the meeting on track.

Don't get emotional. Stay professional and objective as you describe the behavior you've observed from a particular child. If you stay rational and calm, the parents likely will, as well.

Don't run late. Once the Parent-Teacher conference is set, do everything possible to keep things running in a timely manner. Parents have busy lives and have dropped everything to meet with you at the appointed time. Respecting their time will make a great impression.

Don't have a messy classroom. We all know that classrooms can get messy during the busy course of a school day. But spend some time straightening up your room, especially your desk, in order to make the best possible impression..

Don't overwhelm the parents with too many at-home tasks. Choose 2-3 doable ways that the parents can support learning at home. Be specific and offer them the tools they will need to help their child.

Here's a great resource: Parent-Teacher Conferencing. Click here NOW!
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0803963270?tag=educatoo-20&camp=0&creative=0&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=0803963270&adid=0q7v75

Good luck to you!

New Jersey Teachers Convention Week

2009-11-02T11:10:00.000-08:00

This week Wednesday through Friday in Atlantic City, New Jersey , teachers throughout the state will participate in the annual New Jersey Teachers Convention. This is the place to be to enhance your teaching career. Daily workshops, seminars, guest speakers, boardwalk 5k run-walk, vendors, and good food is available. When you are done there's the boardwalk, casinos, shopping, the beach, and the ocean. Of course, the temps are in the 50's but quite comfortable. Yes, of course I will be there.

Golf?? Do We Have too?

2009-10-19T16:08:00.000-07:00

Yes, today was golf lesson to 11 and 12 graders. A beautiful day today after rain and a little snow in the Poconos. Today's lesson was grip of irons and pitch number as the kids really enjoyed it. Hey, a day at the range. Fore!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Paperwork, paperwork, paperwork.

2009-10-08T17:20:00.000-07:00

Today was one of those days in which I seem to have paperwork to be completed all day long. Went to my mailbox couple times. Complete this. Hand in ASAP. Call this parent. Help this kid. Complete plan book for next week. Check attendance. This and that. In spite of it all, I got it all done.

Its all about organization. Stay ahead and never get behind. Stay ahead and the more free time you will have. Stay behind and less time. Besides, tomorrow is TGIF!

Morven Museum and Garden Princeton, New Jersey Part II

2009-09-24T17:32:00.000-07:00

My students (10-12 grade) 3o of them, received a private tour of this beautiful mansion museum. Here's a beautiful piece of property where John Kennedy slept and Fidel Castro visited. The kids were quite attentive ( as I instructed them to be). You know what I mean if you teach. We had a wonderful time . After the tour we walked downtown to Princeton University, allowed the kids to go to their place of lunch, them visited bookstores and shops. Then we sat and watched the many students of Princeton University go about their business of getting a Princeton education. Google Morven Museum.

Morven Museum & Garden in Princeton, NJ

2009-09-21T17:30:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I am taking my school sponsored club "The Talented Tenth" to Princeton to visit Morven Museum & Garden, which also serves as the gateway to Princeton University. For more than 200 years Morven has played a role in the history of New Jersey and the nation. It was originally part of a 5,500-acre tract purchased from William Penn in 1701 by the first Richard Stockton to settle in Princeton. In 1754, his grandson, Richard Stockton, one of the leading attorneys in the American colonies and later a signer of the Declaration of Independence, acquired 150 acres of this land for a house. His wife, Annis Boudinot Stockson, was a prolific poet who named their house "Morven" after a mythical Gaelic kingdom in the epic poems of Ossian.

Tomorrow is going to be a beautiful day and looking forward to all of us having a great time. More tomorrow.

K-6 Classroom Management

2009-09-21T06:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday morning to you. If you teach K-6 here is some great advice pertaining to classroom management as told to me by an elementary teacher.
As a classroom management strategy, count down starting with 10 when you ask your students to do something. For example, say "I'm going to start counting at 10 and when I get to 1 you need a pencil and your Math book on your desk." Then start counting down from 10. Most of the students will get finished by the time you get to 1. The kids enjoy the challenge and you save a lot of time. Hope this helps.

The #1 Resource for Teachers, Parents, Students!

2009-09-11T16:02:00.000-07:00

http://educatorpeopleshops.com

Communist classroom pic 4

2009-09-11T15:59:00.000-07:00

cOMMUNIST Classroom pic 3

2009-09-11T15:54:00.001-07:00

Communist classroom pic #2

2009-09-11T06:59:00.000-07:00

First Week of School

2009-09-11T06:31:00.000-07:00

My first week of school was uneventful. Getting organized, planning, directing lost students, paperwork (and lots of it) and have now made the mental transition from summer vacation to full-time educator. Indeed a job I've really enjoyed for nearly 30 years.

The pic to the right was taken in Prague this summer. It is a Communist classroom (Communist Museum). I can only ponder what that was like. I love democracy.

Great Expectations. You Won't Stop lol

2009-09-10T06:50:00.000-07:00

On the first day of school, a teacher was glancing over the roll when she noticed a number after each student's name, such as 154, 136, or 142.

'Wow! Look at these IQs," she said to herself. "What a terrific class." The teacher promply determined to work harder with this class than with any other she ever had.

Throughout the year, she came up with innovative lessons that she thought would challenge the students, because she didn't want them to get bored with work that was too easy.

Her plan worked! The class outperformed all the other classes that she taught in the usual way.

Then, during the last quarter of the year, she discovered what those numbers after the students' name REALLY were: their locker numbers.

Today's Teacher Quote

2009-09-09T20:55:00.000-07:00

Don't try to fix the students, fix ourselves first. The good teacher makes the poor student good and the good student superior. When our students fail, we, as teachers, too, have failed

First Day of School 2009-2010

2009-09-08T17:22:00.000-07:00

Top 10 Tips for Student Teachers

2009-09-07T15:33:00.000-07:00

Do you remember your student teaching ? Was it exciting? As a teacher/mentor, lets mentor our future young professionals.

Student teachers are often placed into an awkward and stressful situation, not really sure of their authority and sometimes not even placed with veteran teachers who are much help. These tips can aid student teachers as they begin their first teaching assignments. Please note: these are not suggestions for how to approach the students but instead for how to most effectively succeed in your new environment.

1. Be on Time. Punctuality is very important in the "real world." If you are late, you will definitely NOT start out on the right foot with your cooperating teacher. Even worse, if you arrive after a class has begun which your are supposed to be teaching, you are placing that teacher and yourself in an awkward situation.

2. Dress Appropriately. As a teacher, you are a professional and you are supposed to dress accordingly. There is nothing wrong with over dressing during your student teaching assignments. The clothes do help lend you an air of authority, especially if you look awfully young. Further, your dress lets the coordinating teacher know of your professionalism and dedication to your assignment.

3. Be Flexible. Remember that the coordinating teacher has pressures placed upon them just as you have your own pressures to deal with. If you normally teach only 3 classes and the coordinating teacher asks that you take on extra classes one day because he has an important meeting to attend, look at this as your chance to get even further experience while impressing your dedication to your coordinating teacher.

4. Follow the School Rules. This might seem obvious to some but it is important that you do not break school rules. For example, if it is against the rules to chew gum in class, then do not chew it yourself. If the campus is 'smoke-free', do not light up during your lunch period. This is definitely not professional and would be a mark against you when it comes time for your coordinating teacher and school to report on your abilities and actions.

5. Plan Ahead. If you know you will need copies for a lesson, do not wait until the morning of the lesson to get them completed. Many schools have procedures that MUST be followed for copying to occur. If you fail to follow these procedures you will be stuck without copies and will probably look unprofessional at the same time.

6. Befriend the Office Staff. This is especially important if you believe that you will be staying in the area and possibly trying for a job at the school where you are teaching. These people's opinions of you will have an impact on whether or not you are hired. They can also make your time during student teaching much easier to handle. Don't underestimate their worth.

7. Maintain Confidentiality. Remember that if you are taking notes about students or classroom experiences to turn in for grades, you should either not use their names or change them to protect their identities. You never know who you are teaching or what their relationship might be to your instructors and coordinators.

8. Don't Gossip. It might be tempting to hang out in the teacher lounge and indulge in gossip about fellow teachers. However, as a student teacher this would be a very risky choice. You might say something you could regret later. You might find out information that is untrue and clouds your judgement. You might even offend someone without realizing it. Remember, these are teachers you could be working with again some day in the future.

9. Be Professional With Fellow Teachers. Do not interrupt other teachers' classes without an absolutely good reason. When you are speaking with you coordinating teacher or other teachers on campus, treat them with respect. You can learn a lot from these teachers, and they will be much more likely to share with you if they feel that you are genuinely interested in them and their experiences.

10. Don't Wait to the Last Minute to call in Sick. You will probably get sick at some point during your student teaching and will need to stay home for the day. You must remember that the regular teacher will have to take over the class during your absence. If you wait until the last minute to call in, this could leave them in an awkward bind making them look bad to the students. Call as soon as you believe you will not be able to make it to class.

Back To School Resources!

2009-09-06T17:16:00.001-07:00

Well, another school year is upon us. Are you a first year teacher? Is this your tenure year? Are you a veteran teacher, administrator? As you approach the school year for 2009-2010 here is a great resource. Be sure to list in your favorite place. Please list this blog also in your favorite place as I will be blogging with great information to assist you in your career. Here you will find fascinating information. Here is your back to school resource.

http://educatorpeopleshops.com

Summer In Prague 2009

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2009-09-06T16:58:00.000-07:00

Amsterdam summer 2009

On train to The Hague, Netherlands

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Beautiful city.

Summer In Amsterdam 2009

2009-07-31T19:35:00.000-07:00

Gotta love summer vacation. Great way to prepare for the next school year. Had a great time in Amsterdam. Need places to stay and see in Amsterdam email me. Check it out. Arrived to see friends in The Hague for one day and on to Prague for seven days and return to Amsterdam for seven days including The Hague.

Last Day of School Year 2009

2009-06-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

This is it baby. Let the summer vacation begin. Time to plan my trip to Amsterdam and Prague.

Teacher self-evaluation. Was I effective this school year? How do I get better? or maintain?

2009-06-02T18:13:00.000-07:00

This school is over. Another year has come and gone! or goinnnnnnnnnnnnnng! How did you do as a teacher this year? Did you outperform your PiP(professional-improvement-plan) Did test scores improve? Did you improve or maintain as a teacher? Are you a disciplinarian? How must I improve? Parent conferences? For assistance or more information go to:
http://educatorpeopleshops.com

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T18:55:00.000-07:00

Today was truly a fantastic day for all the mothers. Here's hoping you all had a HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Teacher Appreciation Week

2009-05-05T19:48:00.000-07:00

Yes, this is Teacher Appreciation Week. Yesterday, we received a nice keychain in appreciation for the tireless work we do as teachers. Yes, it was well appreciated. Friday of this week the PTA will prepare a nice breakfast for staff. Looking forward to that also.

To teachers of the world, yes, the work is endless, but you are appreciated as a teacher. Enjoy your week. For me there are 35 more days of the school year. Yippeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

My List-10 Worst Things a Teacher Can Do

2009-04-29T19:40:00.000-07:00

After nearly 30 years of teaching, I've managed to come up with a list of items that you should avoid as a new or veteran teacher. I have only included serious items in my list and have left off such obvious offenses as having affairs with students. However, any of these can create problems for you as a teacher and if you combine two or more, than just expect to really have a hard time gaining student respect and finding your profession enjoyable.

1. Avoid smiling and being friendly with your sudents.

While you should start each year with a tough stance and the idea that it is easier to let up than to get harder, this does not mean that you shouldn't have students believe that you aren't happy to be there.

2. Becoming friends with students while they are in class.

You should be friendly but not become friends. Friendship implies give and take. This can put you in a tough situation with all the students in the class. Teaching is not a popularity contest and you are not just one of the guys or girls. Always remember that.

3. Stop your lessons and confront students for minor infractions in class.

When you confront students over minor infractions in class, there is no possible way to create a win-win situation. The offending student will have no way out and this can lead to even greater problems. It is much better to pull them aside and talk to them one-on-one.

4. Humiliate students and try and get them to behave.

Humiliation is a terrible technique to use as a teacher. Students will either be so cowed that they will never feel confident in your classroom, so hurt that they will not trust you ever again, or so upset that they can turn to disruptive methods of retaliation.

5. Yell

Once you've yelled you've lost the battle. This doesn't mean you won't have to raise your voice every once in a while but teachers who yell all the time are often those with the worst classes.

6. Give your control over to the students.

Any decisions that are made in class should be made by you for good reasons. Just because sudents are trying to get out of a quiz or test does not mean that you should allow that to happen unless there is a good and viable reason. You can easily become a doormat if you give in to all demands.

7. Treat students differently based on personal likes and dislikes.

Face it. You are human and there will be kids that you will like more than others. However, you must try your hardest never to let this show in class. Call on all students equally. Do not lessen punishments for students you really like.

8. Create rules that are essentially unfair.

Sometimes the rules themselves can put you in bad situations. For example, if a teacher has a rule that allows for no work to be turned in after the bell rings then this could set up a diffucult situation. What if a student has a valid excuse? What makes a valid excuse? These are situations it would be best to just avoid.

9. Gossip and complain about other teachers.

There will be days when you hear things from students about other teachers that you think are terrible. However, you should be noncommittal to the students and take your concerns to the teacher themselves or to administration. What you say to your students is not private and will be shared.

10. Be inconsistent with grading and /or accepting late work.

Make sure that you have consistent rules on this. Do not allow students to turn in late work for full points at any time because this takes away the incentive to turn in work on time. Further, use rubics when you are grading assignments that require subjectivity. This helps protect you and explain the reason for the students' grades.

Teacher Duties-Educational or Not?

2009-04-29T06:34:00.000-07:00

As a teacher what is your duty outside of the classroom? Is it to monitor the halls or the cafeteria? Do you have a homeroom? Do you have parking lot duty? Do you monitor the flow of student traffic in and out of the lavatories? As a high school teacher, these are just a few of the duties within my school. What are some of your duties as a teacher? Is there any educational value associated with these duties?
Well, here's my duty. At this moment I sit in the In-School suspension room. Basically, students who misbehave are sent to this room and await a visit from their assigned administrator to address their situation. My duty is to somewhat calm the situation as they arrive to me. Based on the infraction, some students are then assigned to In-School suspension for a certain number of days as a consequence to avoid out-of-school suspension. Classwork is then sent to them to complete for classes missed. Is this educational? Should there be more options? What are some of the consequences in your building k-12?

Teacher Appreciation Week

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TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK MAY 3rd through MAY 9th 2009

At times you may not feel appreciated as a teacher. Although our profession educates the world. From doctors, to lawyers, to parents, to minimum wagers, to plumbers, to the President of the United States, they all came in contact with a teacher. Yes, you. Be proud of your profession throughout the ups and downs. We, as teachers, shape the world. So, be proud, in spite of your pay, in spite of your lack of appreciation, in spite of your lack of respect, we shape the world. No other profession can say that. Be proud and enjoy your week. TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK!

Weekend Teacher Quote

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If you promise not to believe everything your child says happens at school, I'll promise not to believe everything he says happens at home.

Teaching a Diverse Classroom of Students

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Each year, we as teachers are faced with the daunting task of teaching to a classroom of 20-30 students, each with their own learning styles, interests, and abilities. Providing optimal learning for such a diverse group can seem overwhelming. There's a simple approach that I use which enables all students to succeed, and that approach is simply using variety and choice. Not only does this approach address the multiple learning styles of students, but it also aides in making them independent learners. While your classroom still needs to have structure (routines, rules, procedures), providing variety within that structured environment can aide in providing optimal learning for all students. Using a variety of instructional approaches such as lectures, PowerPoint presentations, inquiry-based instruction, hands-on-experiments, project/problem-based learning, or computer aided instruction, not only addresses the various learning styles of the students in the classroom, but it can help learners become more flexible in their learning. I find that most learners have a preferred learning style, but this does not mean they are strictly dependent on that style to learn. I also find that exposing students to a wide variety of learning styles will enable them to become more flexible learners.

Don't you think it would be a pretty boring world if all learners were the same? Diversity makes the classroom more interesting and exciting. You as a teacher should honor and respect the uniqueness of each student by offering variety and choice in their classrooms. Not only will this address the diverse needs of the students, but it will also help them to become independent learners as well. After all, is that not the goal of education?

Why I Became a Teacher-6 Reasons

2009-04-18T17:01:00.000-07:00

Teaching is a special calling. It is not a job well-suited for everyone. In fact, many new teachers leave within the first 3-5 years of teaching. I've certainly seen my share of teachers come and go. Education and teaching has certainly changed since my first year of teaching (1980). These changes most certainly prolonged my career for the better. Hey, you go with the flow. As simple as that. Here are my top 6 reasons why I became a teacher.

1. Student Successes

Student success is what drives me to continue teaching. Students who didn't understand a concept and then learned through me can be exhilarating.

2. Daily Humor

Laughter is good therapy. If you have a sense of humor, find the fun and enjoy it.

3. Affecting the Future

Think about it. Teachers mold the future each day in class. What teachers taught President Barack Obama?

4. Staying Younger

You're probably saying "yeah, right." Being around young people helps me to remain knowledgeable about current trends and ideas.

5. Job Security

Need I say more??

6. Summers Off

Unless you work in a district that has a year-round-education system, you will have a couple of months off in the summer where you can choose to get another job, teach summer school, or just relax and vacation. I choose to relax and vacation in Europe. The pic below is summer in Prague, Czech Republic. Yes, I love teaching and so should you!

Here's a great resource to add to your educational library. The title is:
Called to Teach: An Introduction to the Ministry of Teaching

http://www.journeyed.com/itemDetail.asp?ItmNo=100636920

Atlantic City Pics

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Atlantic City Here I Come

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Atlantic City is the host to thousands of New Jersey teachers during the month of November, which is designated as Teachers' Convention Week. Today is my last day of spring break and going to Atlantic City for the day is the perfect ending. What a beautiful day! 55 degrees, beautiful boardwalk, beautiful ocean, beautiful ocean breeze, beautiful sand, beautiful people, great food, great shopping.
What a way to de-stress for my return to school next week. As a teacher you must have ways to de-stress. What is your way of de-stressing? Or should I say positive and healthy de-stressing. What do you do for relaxation? Exercise, dance, fish, shop, read, go to movies. Just do it!!
A must-have book:
Enlighten Up! An Educator's Guide to Stress-Free Living
http://educatorpeopleshops.com

Spring Break

2009-04-16T17:51:00.000-07:00

Ok, let's take a break. This is spring break week for schools here in New Jersey. The weather is somewhat cool but quite comfortable. Today was actually tropical as the temperature was in the 60s. For teachers, spring break is a time to recuperate and re-energize for the final stretch of the school year. The day after labor day (first day of school here) seems so long ago. Tomorrow is Friday and the last day of spring break as teachers and students return to school on Monday. I will be going to Atlantic City tomorrow to relax, as Atlantic City is the place for our annual Teachers' Convention in November. The Teachers' Convention is excellent for networking opportunities as far as enhancing your teaching career. Be sure to attend in your state. I would love to hear from others about their teachers' convention and what it has to offer!

My 6 Keys to Being a Successful Teacher

2009-04-15T22:22:00.000-07:00

As a veteran teacher and the teachers I have worked with over the years, I realize that the most successful teachers share some common characteristics.

Here are my 6 keys to being a successful teacher. I think that every teacher can benefit from focusing on these important qualities. Success in teaching, as in most areas of life, depends almost entirely on your attitude and your approach.

1. Sense of Humor

Your sense of humor will make class more enjoyable for your students and possibly make students look forward to attending and paying attention.

2. A Positive Attitude

You will be thrown many curve balls in the teaching profession. A positive attitude will help you cope with these in the best way.

3. High Expectations

Work on an attitude that says that you know students can achieve to your level of expectations, thereby giving them a sense of confidence.

4. Consistency

In order to create a positive learning environment your students should know what to expect from you each day.

5. Fairness

Treat students equally in the same situation. Be careful of being labeled unfair.

6. Flexibility

Class disruptions and interruptions are the norm. Keep a flexible attitude.

Here's a great book for your personal educational library. This book focuses on the specific things that great teachers do that others do not. The book title is:

What Great Teachers Do Differently: 14 Things That Matter Most!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1930556691/?ie=UTF8&tag=educatoo-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=1789&creativeASIN=1930556691

My First Year Teaching! 1980

2009-04-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

The year was 1980. My salary was $12,500. Here's a quick review of 1980.

U.S. Events
Ronald Reagan elected president in Republican sweep (Nov.4)

Economics
Median household income-$17,710
Cost of a first-class stamp- $0.15

Sports
World Series
Philadelphia Phillies d. Kansas City (4-2)

Entertainment Events
John Lennon of the Beatles shot in NYC
Ted Turner launches CNN

Science
Janice Brown, a 98-lb former teacher, makes the first long-distance solar-powered flight in the Solar Challenger

Deaths
Alfred Hitchcock
John Lennon
Jesse Owens
Mae West

Yes, I Love Teaching!

2009-04-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

Welcome from beautiful and congested New Jersey. Yes, I love teaching; approaching 30 years as a 12th grade teacher of Human Sexuality. My first five years of teaching was middle school before transferring to high school. My neighbors apparently think my job is too easy, sarcastically saying I have too much time off. Summer vacation, week-ends, snow days, holidays, and on and on. Here is my response to them and anyone who share their views. If a doctor, lawyer, or dentist, had 40 people in his office at one time, all of whom had different needs, and some of whom didn't want to be there and were causing trouble, and the doctor, lawyer, or dentist, without assistance, had to treat them all with professional excellence for nine months, then he might have some conception of the classroom teacher's job.

WORD TO NEW TEACHERS! WE NEED YOU! OUR KIDS NEED YOU!

Nationally, 22 percent of all new teachers leave the profession in the first 3 years because of lack of support and a "sink or swim" approach to induction. As a veteran teacher I am going to share with you some of the things that made me a successful teacher for nearly 30 years. Nothing fancy, just being myself and being professional. And so can you!

WORD TO VETERAN TEACHERS! NEW TEACHERS NEED YOU!

Here'a a fantastic RESOURCE for VETERAN TEACHERS. It is one of my favorites. Be the best mentor that you can be. This book is powerful. The title is:

What Successful Mentors Do: 81 Research-Based Strategies for New Teacher Induction, Training, and Support.

http://www.journeyed.com/itemDetail.asp?ItmNo=100634869