Carol's+2011-2012+School+Year+Page

Welcome to the 2011-2012 school year! I believe that children are like sponges...they absorb everything around them. So as a teacher and parent to a teenager I try to be mindful of that be as good of a role model as I can be! Rae Kawamura 8/11/11

I see so many happy students! Thanks for making that happen. Please check out this article: "Children Learn What They Live." Give me your reflection in only two sentences! Thanks.

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Attitudes and behaviors of children mirror how they are treated by adults. Marion Write Edelman, president and founder of the Children's Defense Fund made the following statement a number of years ago ..."We can't be what we don't see."

Adah Askew 8/11/2011 LOVE IT. THANKS.

My goal this year is to fill my classroom with good friendly humor and productive noise. The gossip and "white noise" can be left at the door thank you very much :) Aloha Karen Weisberger, 8/11/11 PRODUCTIVE NOISE IS WONDERFUL!

Children's self esteem is at the top of my list... As a teacher and a parent I feel we should all try our best to make every child feel important and most of all, loved! -Kristi M. 8/12/11 I KNOW YOU CAN DO THIS!

If children live with laughter in their lives... who knows the possibilities! LOL! I love Adah's comment... "We can't be what we don't see." And kids see a lot more than you think. liveitloveitgogetit.
 * Ashley 8/12/11

As a teacher, I feel privileged to have the opportunity to work with children and be a positive influence in their lives. To quote Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – it starts with us. ABSOLUTELY! - Tina 8/12/11

Unfortunately, for many, we are their only models. Therefore, we need to model kindness & a sense of community towards all if we wish to see it in our children. jj 8/13/11 FOR TOO MANY, THIS IS TRUE.

It's good to remember all of the important things kids learn that aren't a part of our lesson plans. I think all of our students can be pretty awesome when they feel like it; so it's a big part of my job to make them feel like it. I AGREE...THEY CAN...AND THEY OFTEN DO! Karyn 8/13/11

I try to always keep in mind that children are watching and listening us at ALL times. Our body language is just as impactful as our words. Miki 8/14/11 BODY LANGUAGE IS IMPORTANT. OUR KIDS DON'T MISS A THING!

We sometimes forget that children are like sponges, asorbing everything around them. The smallest comment, action, deed can go a long way and make them feel at times like the biggest person in the world. Traci 8/15/11 AND, THEY REMEMBER THE SMALLEST THINGS FOR THE LONGEST TIME!

Teachers need to be optimistic and encourage children mentally, physically, and emotionally. Children do remember incidents in their early lives that may have an impact on them later. Wendy 08.15.11 SOCIALLY, TOO. SOUNDS LIKE OUR MISSION STATEMENT.

The impact that we do have on children is so great, we need to provide them with as positive an environment as possible. They are our future after all, and need a lot of positive guidance through our own actions. davin 8/16/11 MENTORING ALL OF THE TIME!

A beautiful and inspiring poem. Thank you!! YOU ARE VERY WELCOME. Jolene 8/17/11

We should put this in HMS newsletter and website. AGREED. GREAT IDEA. WE WILL! THANKS. Ed 8/17 I think it was Mother Teresa that said, "The person in front of you is your world." This poem reminds me of that importance...to always be mindful in all that we are and all that we do. We may never know how far we impact our world. <3 k.chong 8/23

The heading for this link "Teaching as an act of love" says it all as we choose to teach with praise and encouragement in an environment of support. I want to incorporate the words from Kathryn Stockett's //The Help// in all we say to our students from the 3s to the preteens "you (are) kind, you (are) smart, you (are) important" so they grow up to believe in themselves. -- Lori 8/23

We are our children's role models! SMILE and LOVE WHAT YOU DO! or else find something else to do.... KM ;)

Why can't children just be children? I can tell you I have seen a big difference in my students from last yr to this yr. Very happy! Children of all ages can tell what we are feeling. I hope my students know that they are the world to me! As long as we love what we do we will never have to work a day in our lives! Victoria 8/26/11

This poem is a reminder that children are the products of their life experiences. If we teach with a loving and open heart, our students will be open to all that life has to offer. ~ Evelyn 8/29/11

This poem is a reminder to us all about why we teach and the kind of influence we have on our students. It is very inspirational! -Kristen 9/14

=8/20/11= Homework is another topic that most teachers have strong feelings about. Here is a post I recently discovered. Please share a thought or two you have about homework. Thanks.

More times than not homework adds little value when it comes to student learning…

- There is pressure from society to continue giving homework because that is the way it has always been done…

- Homework that is assigned rarely has any true relevancy or purpose for students, thus completion rates are negatively effected…

- When a student receives a zero for not completing homework, he/she is NOT learning about responsibility and “the real world.”

- Grading homework on completion typically inflates grades and ultimately distorts overall content mastery…

- Homework should be an extension of the learning environment that provides students the opportunity to explore and discover…

- Homework can be a valuable tool in schools, but I believe too often homework is misused and ultimately detracts from the learning environment…

- More homework does NOT equal more learning…

- Students should not spend all night every night doing homework… I don’t know any Educators who work 8 a.m. until 10 p.m…. why should students be subjected to that…?

- The natural love and curiosity of learning are destroyed by too much irrelevant and unproductive homework…

- A school without homework and grades would be a school where student learning and success increased…

- Not enough Educators are having this difficult conversation about the role of homework in schools…

What are your thoughts…?

Well I have been a proponent of homework in the past but I think time are a changin'. This year the science textbooks did not get assigned to take home. I still believe that thinking about a subject outside of a classtime is important. The key for me will be what meaningful interactions do I want the students to have with science when they are not in class. Aloha Karen

At the Punahou Brain Symposium Dr. Eagleman stressed the need for kids to play, wind down, and rest. The rest is important because that is when the brain makes connections. Homework, if given, should be parent/child time to play a math game, make a map of their street, have a conversation, explore, something that is not worksheet related. When kids can demonstrate their learning by explaining, drawing, or conversing with you they know it. Memorizing is not learning & not everyone can memorize. jj

I believe homework can definitely reinforce concepts being learned in school. I also believe that we, as educators, need to remember in giving homework that as important as school/homework is, the child's time at home to relax, play, and spend time with the family is also very important. I think there needs to be a happy medium.
 * o) Miki

I agree that homework can be a tool to reinforce and make even more connections to our outside world. In our class, we have the students go on hunts for letters, colors, or shapes in magazines, visits to the store, or when they go out to eat...This helps them to notice more of their world around them and the functionality of why we learn what we do! Learning is fun! I also agree that we must be mindful of the special quality family, play, and rest time each child needs to grow. <3 k.chong

Homework can be a tool to reinforce lessons and to provide deeper understanding but the quantity and the difficulty needs to be examined. What's the sense in giving homework that the child cannot understand and the parents feel unequipped to assist? If we remember to educate parents/families about how they can support at-home learning, they can become partners in their child's enducation. I'm all for finding relevant applications and fun projects that provide the "ah-ha" moments for students and the "wow" response from their involved families. -- Lori 8/23

The amount of homework I use to assign dropped considerable last school year since I went with more of a project-based curriculum. Still, I need to know where students are in certain area, which is why I still use the math book for new concepts, review, reinforce, and practice. Some students need more practice than others ... which is probably why Kumon thrives. In regards to the point ... - When a student receives a zero for not completing homework, he/she is NOT learning about responsibility and “the real world.” ... In life there are due dates and accountability, not only in the work place or school. I am sure my credit card company would deem me irresponsible if I did not pay by the due dates they set. - Edward

Homework assignments need to reflect and reinforce what has been taugh in class. To be meaningful as a learning tool homework need not be lengthy. Time for relaxation and fun stimulates the brain and enhances learning. Adah 8/24/2011

I believe that you need a balance... Work and play but we also have to remember that HW is a reinforce learning and it is practice for the child. You don't learn new skills without practice. HW also teaches responsibility and accountability. We are trying to prepare them for the "real world" and there is work to be done inside and outside of the classroom/workplace.... KM ;)

In my opinion, homework is not a bad thing. But, too much homework that is not valuable to the child's learning could be a burden. Then homework would be a bad thing. Will this problem ever be resolved? Wendy~ 08.25.11 I feel that every teacher needs to find their own balance when assigning homework for their students. Yes, students need it to reinforce their learning, but the amount they receive and the type of work they get sent home should be appropriate. Students should not be sent home with "busy" work or with assignments that teachers didn't have time in class time to complete. I think sometimes as educators we can become so overwhelmed with what we need to teach in our classrooms every year and the amount of material that needs to be covered, that sometimes we can be guilty of just "sending it home for homework". RK

Homework teaches more than just content, it teaches students about time management and responsibility. In addition, there are always some students that need that extra reinforcement and time that homework allows them to have. Asking teachers why they give homework is like asking a parent why do they give a child chores to do... life skills!!

I feel that homework can be a meaningful tool for learning, as long as it is relevant and meaningful. Homework allows for an extension between content taught in the classroom, but I feel that it should not be a long assignment that causes the child to get frustrated. Of course each child learns differently, so finding the right balance of content and time for completion is essential. One of the ways in which homework can become meaningful to students is through sharing. I will be allowing for students an opportunity to share their homework via the Round Robin method that I learned from the Kagan workshop. I feel that it will be effective since it allows for students to accountable and it builds on their speaking skills. I tried it last year, and I found that it was helpful to have the sessions brief. Students learned from one another and became more confident in sharing their work. ~ Evelyn 8/28/11

After the homework discussion last year, I chose not to start homework until January this year. For Kindergarten, I say let them get adjusted to a new school routine... that's hard enough as it is! I do feel they need to be exposed to some type of homework routine. For now they are doing reading logs- which to me promote family time. Who knows, maybe I will change my mind about HW again in January. What can I say, change is the only constant. Ashley 8/29/11

I think homework can be beneficial and is sometimes necessary (to reinforce and practice skills). I agree with the other comments from above saying that it shouldn't be all night and that it shouldn't be "busy work". As I learn and grow as a teacher, I am finding that natural discovery and hands-on learning through trial and error is another way for students (myself included) to learn, not just constant drills. Also, I think that family time and time to "unwind" is important for EVERYONE and I can see how "homework" can get in the way of this.

I have to agree with Ed's comment about the article's statement that getting a "zero" for homework does NOT teach about the real world. I think Ed is spot on with his comment - in life, there are deadlines and consequences for not meeting them. Students need to learn this - if not, they will have a tough time as an adult. I'm not sure if "homework" is the best means to teach this, but meeting deadlines is something that students should have exposure to. ~ Tina 8/29/11

Homework is quite important if it's relevant to the skills being taught in class. It shouldn't though, become a "chore" for the students, where they become overwhelmed with schoolwork. Quality over quantity. Davin 9/1

=8/26/11= Great comments on homework. I just read a blog on the 10 minute rule related to homework: 10 minutes for each grade level. Examples: 2nd grade = 20 minutes; 3rd grade = 30 minutes; 8th grade = 80 minutes.

What about when, in addition to homework, the student needs to read 20 minutes a night or needs to study for a test?

Does the 10 minute rule make sense? For middle school, is it 80 minutes total for all classes?

Please respond. Thank you.

The additional 10 minutes of homework for each grade makes sense as long as it is quality study time (no whining, watching tv, or wasting time dawdling). However, if a child is enjoying a project or on a 'roll', they should be able to continue. Reading and studying for a test should be considered separate from their study time. ~Wendy 8.26.11

80 minutes of homework + 20 minutes of reading + ? minutes studing for test(s) + additions time for nonproductive behavior make for a very long night. Wait made parts of parts of projects gets deligated to homework. Can you imagine how difficult this must be to keep up every day of the week. I think it's a great idea for departmentalized teachers like myself to touch base with other teachers on the projects and tests that are going on in each of our classes. I think that middle school students benefit when we consider what else is going on curricularly and extracurricularlyn in the lives of our students. Aloha Karen

Sorry I'm so late. I feel paper homework is not essential! I give only to show yes they can do it on paper. I give my students a time limit in class 5 mins ttl to finish 20 problems with their shoulder partner whatever they have left will be finished at home. Many of times students will go home not at all understanding what they were supposed to do if they work solo. I think working w their shoulder partner reinforces this. On average my students will bring home 5-7 math problems home. I think there is only so much drilling students can take, they need interaction, manipulitives, real life scenarios when r they going to use this. All this takes place in the classroom. For my class homework is about 15-20 mins and so far the results from the homework is excellent! Their test scores are awesome! Victoria 8/26/11

I never really understood the 10 minute rule...maybe it's because I'm a preschool teacher. Hee, hee! However, with my son, school and homework was always a struggle (and still is) so homework was never, ever 10 minutes even when he was in first grade! For students like him, who struggle with homework, the 10 minute rule will never apply so, I feel that teachers shouldn't always go by the 10 minute rule. -RK

I use the 20 minute rule as a guideline but not as a rule. I don't feel that they HAVE to have 20 minutes of homework every night. I do want them to read 20 minutes of reading a night. I encourage parents to spend the time with their child and read with them. Quality time that encourages reading... what more could we ask for!!

Back in the days of yore ... told parents and students that if it is past student's designated bed time, stop the homework and get the rest you need. Ed

I don’t think this homework rule is “one-size-fits-all.” All of us (like our students) are different…so we should be able to tailor any type of assignment to fit the needs of our students. We want them to be successful and love learning. Instead, we can see what they need or what works, adapt/adjust, and go from there to help them grow even further. - <3 k.c.

Holy smokes.... 80 minutes!... every night? That's crazy! Uh, This rule was made to be broken! K is a letter and does not equal a certain amount of minutes.... guess we shouldn't be giving homework then.... I agree with <3 k.c. above- this is NOT a "one size fits all" rule. Why would you assign something you wouldn't want to do yourself? Would you want to do homework that long? I think not. Ashley 8/29/11

Ashley I agree! You said it perfectly!!! Victoria 8/31/11

I have seen this 10 minute rule before written somewhere. I don't necessarily think this formula is "correct". If we think about the article prior to this one, homework could/should be assigned if it serves a purpose and reinforces, NOT as filler and CERTAINLY NOT because some formulas says that this is the way it should be. I fell into the pattern of giving homework when I started teaching computer because I thought I "should" be doing this. I then realized that I was just adding onto an already full plate that students had. Now, I only ask them to work on something if we are having connection trouble at school or if I need them to prepare something at home for our in-class work. Perhaps I rely too much on my past experiences (with hours of homework) - I have to know that times are changing and I can't stay stuck in the past. ~Tina 8/29/11

=Great comments, faculty. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!=

=8/30/11= I just got this today. Take a "read" and let me know what you think. Mahalo.

**We used to have:** **We wanted teachers to understand that:** It all seemed a bit out of reach at the time and it’s rewarding to see just how far we have come!
 * Computer labs with desktop computers.
 * An ICT teacher teaching a computer lesson each week.
 * Teachers afraid of technology, teachers who lacked expertise, actively resistant teachers.
 * Lots of notebooks, ring-binders, posters.
 * Learning limited to the classroom.
 * Now we have:**
 * Sets of laptops that students can use anywhere, carry around, get when they need.
 * An ICT facilitator with a flexible timetable, available as required to work with classes or groups
 * Teachers blogging and collaborating on googledocs, comfortable to have a go and willing to learn.
 * Less paper, more on-line presentations, class blogs and wikis.
 * Learning via Skype with people in other places.
 * A little more than a year ago, we set some goals:**
 * The implementation of technology across all learning areas to support learning and inquiry.
 * The use of technology to support creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking.
 * The use of technology for global connections to promote authentic learning, not limited to the classroom.
 * Familiarity with a range of tools to document, share, organize, create and present.
 * Learning is not limited to the classroom. Technology provides opportunities for meaningful global learning outside of the classroom.
 * Technology is an integral part of learning.
 * Integration of technology is not optional. The school is educating for the present and future in which our students will live. Each teacher needs to take responsibility for their own learning and that of their students.
 * Literacy today includes the traditional literacies such as reading and writing, as well as technological literacy.
 * Implementation of technology should always be driven by learning requirements.
 * There is a wide range of tools available to share, organize and present learning.
 * Web 2.0 allows for communication with and feedback from a wide-ranging authentic audience.
 * Web 2.0 provides opportunities for practicing trans-disciplinary skills such as communication, collaboration, creativity
 * Technology can provide access to a broad range of sources of information, through both primary and secondary sources.
 * Technology creates opportunities for natural differentiation and multiple learning styles.
 * Technology provides opportunities for student choice and facilitates students taking responsibility for their own learning.
 * We thought they should be able to:**
 * Use word processor, spreadsheet, and presentation software tools efficiently
 * Read/use email regularly. Know how to set up a group in email.
 * Use the school intranet proficiently.
 * Use the multimedia tools that come with the interactive whiteboard. Make it a student tool as well.
 * Be confident users of hardware and peripherals such laptops, printers, scanners, photocopier, still and movie cameras, flip cameras, iTouch/iPads.
 * Download and manipulate images and digital movies.
 * Be confident web users
 * Be able to search efficiently.
 * Understand copyright issues on the web, and make sure students are copyright aware.
 * Know how to locate the wide range of tools available for learning.
 * Use a wide range of web 2.0 tools to create, share, organize and present learning.
 * Create a class wiki or blog and use it to support learning, including reflection, communication with and feedback from a wide-ranging authentic audience.
 * Be able to embed from web tools.
 * Make global connections and collaborate with people outside the school, using eg Skype or Voicethread.
 * Use digital technologies as part of the information process

Definitely! Hats off to everyone! :o) Miki

It's amazing what we have learned in technology and how far we have come. I can't help but wonder what year it will be when I don't teach students how to hold a pencil or teach them how to write the alphabet or hold a scissors. Will there be a need for it? Ashley 8/31/11

I agree with Ashley! I never thought I'd be making a blog and posting weekly - or even more often than that! I even figured out how to post from my phone! Today I took pictures of the kids at recess and uploaded it to my blog! My parents can pretty much see what is going on and see the happy faces of the kids! The kids themselves are telling me to post to the blog since they check it with their parents! ITouches in the classroom... who knew! It's incredible what are children can do in school now! As a parent, I appreciate the wikis to see what is happening in my daughter's class! Great job, Mr. Nish and Mrs. Yoshiyama!! Thank you! ~kristi m

When we started all of this I had no idea where we could go. One of the reasons, there is no curriculum guide and new ideas pop up while we sleep. My hope in starting Tech Wednesdays was to give everyone a safe environment to learn, because we are all learners. This year I hope we can offer you even more and be there to support you as you continue to grow. Learning is messy, and what we need to remember it's for our students. It's their world and they need our support. jj

Amazing Kristi M! That's awesome! I want to get into blogging more I just don't know where to start. Maybe we can meet up next week. I think we have made grate :) changes since last year. I agree JoAnn Tech Weds. is a great way to learn from each other and feel safe doing so. I feel I have also improved in the classroom. I just hope others see it that way ~ Victoria 8/31/11

I think it's neat to see the change and growth of everyone on campus - more and more people are sharing with me things they're learning from others and I even have students sharing their discoveries with me! I appreciate the sharing and communication about technology that I'm seeing so far this year. I have certainly grown in my knowledge the past few years. After following the link to the "What Ed Said" article, I think I was in Group 2 and now am in Group 3. I had a sense that my approach to teaching my class was not working for the students - I think now, I am slowly learning and tapping into what can work. I feel so much more confident now and I really feel like, finally, everything is "clicking". I think with everyone's support, I will continue to grow and learn more. ~ Tina 9/1/11

We have come a long way, but the way technology is constantly changing, we have an even more mysterious future ahead of us. Some day we might have to teach our students how to drive flying cars or operate teleporters. Who knows? It's important to have "lifelong learning" to keep up with the times. Davin 9/2

We're educating our 'leaders of tomorrow.'. Our responsibility is to keep abreast with the changing times for our own well being and for the sake of our students. Technology surely improved efficiency and has helped me to access more information. ~Wendy 09.02

It is awesome to see the progress our school has made over the years! We have come so far and I am so proud our facutly, students and our school community for coming so far in our learning with technology! Way to go HMS! ~RK

It is amazing to think of the progress we have made in such a short time. It is wonderful to have opportunities to learn from one another and to work with people who are willing to help in any way they can! -Kristen 9/14

=9/16/11=

Social networking for educators: Check it out and let me know if anything looks interesting.

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Everloop (#17)is a trip. It seems like it's a Facebook/Myspace, Jr.... games, connecting with friends, decorate your profile, throw a pie on a profile... It's targeted for kids 13 and under. Parents get updates/reports on what their kid is doing on Everloop. It was created by 3 moms so it makes parents and kids feel safe in the cyber world. They have this "mod squad" which is kind of like the safety police on line for this site- you/kids can report bad things. Like I said it's trip and boarderline creepy. But, hey- to each his own. Ashley 9/19/11

I think it's amazing how many social networks there are. I honestly do not have the time to go discover all of these on my own. It's great to talk and get ideas from others. - Miki

I definitely want to add Twitter to my classroom. We will first see who is willing to try. I think this will ease our class into it. I love Twitter for educational resources, and thx for JoAnn! I was scared to use it at first, but with her help I am slowly learning. Google Plus I feel as if not a lot of people are on there yet. I definitely want to try Classroom 2.0! I have been hearing great things about it. I think for this generation we are teaching social networks are a must. My goal is to incorporate these successfully, and in a healthy environment (safe). :) Victoria 9/20/11

Yes Miki- learning from others is great! I agree! But I do feel it needs to be reciprocated. If one party keeps sharing and sharing and sharing and the other one keeps taking- I don't feel that is healthy or right. Victoria- I love how you're always willing to try new things! What is your main reason for liking Classroom 2.0? Just curious.... Ashley 9/21/11

Ashley...I can completely understand your frustration on the sharing issue! - Miki

Ashley just by glancing at classroom 2.0 I think it has a lot of resources to offer for any classroom. I am always looking for resources to make sure I am not boring my students or myself haha. :) I bore myself quite often. Thank you Ashley I try my best to stay on top of things. It is definitely hard to switch from one social site to another. I love fcbk, and was very reluctant to start Twitter. Very reluctant. I decided this summer to dive into it, I started off slow and now I love it. Twitter has the best resources! Everytime I think about my switch from fcbk to Twitter I think of the story, Who Moved My Cheese?, definitely a must read. :) ~ Victoria 9/21/11

I have found some wonderful FREE webinars on Classroom 2.0. - Carol

Thanks for the conversations taking place! This is the true purpose of this s

I would love more info on classroom 2.0 :) thx~Victoria 9/21/11

Victoria, Yes, Classroom 2.0 has a ton of live and archived sessions for everyone. The sessions are not too long, and very informative. Some may prefer listening to the archived sessions, as it is more convenient. Wendy 09.21.11

I have always been a fan of Google/Gmail. There is so much you can do with Google. I saw the possibilities of Google when I attended the workshop, "Google for Kids" presented by a teacher from Mid Pacific Institute. The presenter showed us how comments can be posted (similar to a Facebook format, but in a closed network). The students learned how to comment, advise, and critique their peers in an appropriate way. There are so many other way that Google can be applied in the classroom. I need to explore more on what is currently out there. I also like Edutopia. They have great updated resources. They also have digital resources for download. I found the site to be very helpful. It's comprehensive and easy to navigate. Thank you. ~ Evelyn 9/21/11

I'm super curious about Google+ (Google Plus), especially because of all the recent changes Facebook is making. Could this be the next phenomenon? (I'll admit, sometimes what Google knows frightens me...) I might check it out... I, too, like Victoria, was reluctant to go on Twitter, but I started this summer also. While I am not quite as far as Victoria is (and nowhere near JoAnn), I am seeing the benefits of Twitter. I need give more time to it (which I am hoping to do very soon!)... I do like Classroom 2.0 - I like the archived webinars. Again, I think if I devote more time to finding these sources, there's a wealth of knowledge out there waiting for us all. I'm gonna have to delve in to that list - thank you for posting it! ~Tina 10/1/11

=9/22/11= Homework is in the news quite a lot. We shared lots of comments with each other. Parents have true feelings about homework. Take a look at this article. It may help in conversations with parents.

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Found this on Twitter today and goes well with the link Dr.Riley provided. Oh how I love Twitter now. :) [|http://www.educationrethink.com/2011/09/ten-reasons-to-get-rid-of-homework-and.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+JohnSpencersBlog+(Education+Rethink+(John+T.+Spencer])) I asked my students today what they did not enjoy this week....first answer was you guessed it, HOMEWORK. They did tell me they loved the Mathletics and SpellingCity assignments that I give out. The article from Twitter helped a lot and also the article that Dr.Riley provided. ~Victoria 9-22-11

I'm for less/no homework. But I have a few students who are struggling with basic math. I have a few students who struggle writing a sentence or writing something that I can read or decipher. More practice would help them so ... Extra work for them? More review in class? or tutors? I'm at odds about the amount of time given for doing group projects in class or drilling basic concepts (not as fun). BTW I like that Education Rethink blog Victoria. - EN

Could teachers assign homework they design for different interests and abillities? Quality, not quantity is important. ~Wendy

As I've said before, I feel that depending on the situation and class, there is good that comes out of assigning homework. It should not be given as "filler" or given "just because". In this day and age, I think there are many other alternatives or more exciting ways to reinforce concepts being taught in school. Like Victoria said, students enjoy Mathletics and Spelling City - these sites reinforce the learning done in school and are enjoyable. Another example - the process of writing now can be done through blogs - and the audience is real - it's not just for a letter (grade) anymore. There are alternatives. I do think, though, that some kids, may benefit from the "drill-like" approach. As Wendy says, maybe we need to adjust based on interests, abilities - and I would like to add - learning styles. Victoria - thanks for sharing that link to the Education Rethink blog. He's got some interesting ideas and viewpoints... ~ Tina 10/1/11

=9/30/11= Here is a blog I found today. Listed are 20 things students want teachers to know. Pretty interesting. Please take a look and leave a comment. Thank you!

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Children are much more aware than we think. They can tell if we genuinely care about them or if we are just doing something because it is "our job". First and foremost,when children come to my class, I hope to connect with them in a way where they know that when they come to school they are safe and will be cared for. Yes, there are rules and yes, there will be consequences for bad choices but it important that they know beyond a doubt that I care and I am here for them! And I know for a fact that there are many teachers in our school that definitely feel the same way! - Miki

Students knows when you are authentic. They have the ability to deferentiate between the teachers who genuinely care, and those who view their jobs as simply a source of income. When students feel that you honestly believe in them and their ability to succeed....**they will live up to your expectations. -** Adah

I could not agree with you more Adah! - Miki

Reading this list of student messages made me think of a comment that a former Vice Principal told me once a long time ago. I was talking about teaching science, he got this look on his face and he said, "Science knows all there is to know about science, you teach kids" he grinned, I got that look on my face that you've all seen before and he grinned some more. What he didn't know is that was a pivital time in my career. Now I teach kids and I think science teaches me a thing or two. Aloha Karen

Another comment that struck my interest was the messages about test. I thought tests were end measurements and not the lesson. I hope that lessons with critical thinking aspects help students do well on test. I think test have there place.

I think Miki and Adah say it well - students are very perceptive and know when you really care. When I was a student, I knew the teachers who really cared about us students - I was fortunate enough to have almost all my teachers really dedicated to their profession. I can only hope that the students know that I do care about each and every one of them and I do hope they can see my care through my actions.

In all my years of teaching, I have always tried to connect with the students on a more personal level - keeping up with latest trends and interests, asking about their interests, "chatting" with them about things other than school, etc.. I think relating things to "their world" helps you, as a teacher, become more "real" to them. I also try to find their skill and praise them for it. This helps kids in their confidence level.

I can honestly say that I do love teaching kids - I love working with them - I love it when I see their growth (in a subject, in their maturity, etc.) - I love to see their thought process - and over the years, they have taught me. As teachers, we have such a great opportunity and privilege to help kids - and I know that all of us at HMS are making sure we make the most of that opportunity. :) ~ Tina 10/1/11

I think that all those comments made by those students should be a very valuable and important lesson to all of us educators. We need to really start listening to our students and hear their concerns. They do know and understand what they need and what it will take for them to be successful in school and in life. I always ask my students to be better listeners, but I know that I also need to become one as well to become a better teacher for them. ~RK

Asking students what they want to learn and how they learn best is very important. It gives me valuable information to shape my curriculum and instruction. I hope as much emphasis is placed on how they believe they are accountable for their own learning and progress. - Karyn

Learning is a shared responsibility. Students should have input but they should also take the initiative to help create their own better learning environment when they are capable of doing so. Educators and parents also recognize that younger students need support to develop their skills and ideas as they grow older. ~ wl

Many of the sentiments shared by the students in this article remind me of fundamental ideas shared at the workshop we just attended on the 5th. Everyone must truly feel like they matter…especially our students. It isn’t just a “nicety” but a “necessity” in order for anyone to grow. Growing up, my mom (one of my first teachers ) would always say, “Discover what you love and make it your passion …Then, you won’t have to //work// a day in your life.” I found teaching…my students…my passion. And I, too, believe that each child knows your heart…It matters to them!!! ~<3 k. chong

=10/6/11= Let's hear it for teacher! Read and comment. Thanks.

Good teaching, the type that we see in a majority of our schools and classrooms, is hard work; great teaching, of which there is plenty, is incredibly difficult. Good teaching is physically, intellectually, and emotionally demanding. Great teaching is all of these and much more. The physical demands of daily life in the classroom can take a toll on a teacher’s health and wellness. One recent article suggests that teachers have a greater prevalence of physical health problems than others. The day starts early, well before students arrive (check the school parking lot at 7:30 a.m.) and often ends late in the evening (look again at 5:30 p.m.). Good teachers spend the majority of their day on their feet, moving from kid to kid, listening, applauding, helping. On some days, there may be no bathroom breaks all morning, or afternoon. Many teachers scurry into the lunchroom, grab their meals from the fridge, and head back to the classroom to meet with colleagues or to work with a small group of children. Professional meetings are held each week, often before the day starts and frequently at the day’s end. Good teachers communicate regularly with parents, some each day by email, phone, or meetings, all in support of the parents’ child. Most teachers leave the school in the late afternoon packing a bag filled with the evening’s work—papers to correct, lessons to prepare, newsletters to write. Sunday afternoons are often devoted to the next week’s planning and preparation. The intellectual demands placed upon teachers today are often overwhelming. New curriculum is added each year, requiring initial training, ongoing professional development, and continuing study to become familiar with the materials and content. Study of the professional literature is part of the daily lives of good teachers. The knowledge base specific to high-quality instruction grows constantly. Teachers work diligently, passionately, to “differentiate,” which involves specific plans to meet the wide range of needs of all children in each lesson—those with special needs, those in gifted programs, those on the autism spectrum, and those who need coaxing to do the best of which they are capable. Techniques for assessing students’ understanding are both formal and informal. Good teachers collect information during their lessons through observations and note-taking in addition to the review and scoring of student work. Often, this data is collated in a systematic fashion at day’s end in preparation for the next day’s lessons and for reporting to parents. New technology is added each year in classrooms. For young teachers who have grown up as techies, this is an easy, enjoyable part of the job. For those from my generation it can be both challenging and frustrating and, certainly, time-consuming. "Good teaching is physically, intellectually, and emotionally demanding. Great teaching is all of these and much more."

Many teachers work in schools that serve students and families who speak a range of languages. Some of these teachers study and learn to communicate with the family in their home language. Teachers new to the profession are required to participate in the professional-certification process. Teachers find the process to be rewarding and to enhance their development as teachers, but it is time-intensive, involving classes both on evenings and weekends. These folks often come into school on Monday morning exhausted. Good teachers often choose to pursue certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, a rigorous process in which they must prepare and submit detailed portfolios of their work along with videotapes of their instruction to be evaluated by board personnel. They must then pass a rigorous three-hour examination. Some achieve certification on their first try. Others don’t, but immediately begin the process again the following year.

Many of the emotional challenges that face teachers are also faced by others—a fender-bender on the way to school; a daughter or son who becomes ill early in the morning of a workday; a parent, often far away, in declining health—personal and often very significant health issues. But some challenges are not part of the daily lives of those in other professions. A child who comes to school after being beaten the previous night. A young girl who comes to school on a cold, rainy morning in a shirt without a coat, hat, or mittens. A boy who shows up and has not had breakfast that morning or dinner the previous evening. A mother who comes into the classroom scared and crying, fearful of her boyfriend, seeking help and support. A father who comes in and shares that he has just been diagnosed with cancer. These issues confront teachers each day in many schools. Good teachers respond with deep care and concern, comforting the child and the parent. Great teachers become effective advocates for the family, immediately and successfully seeking help and support from various community resources. Then the teacher goes home, sad and weary, but returns in the morning with great spirit, prepared for the next day’s challenges. Today, this is the job of being a teacher.

The most important work in public education occurs in the classroom between teachers and kids. It’s not easy work. Give teachers a pat on the back, write them a note (they’ll post it on their refrigerators at home), bring them a cup of coffee one morning. They’ll appreciate it. And they deserve it.

Oh my gosh! Just reading this post made me feel exhausted and yet to a good majority of it I was nodding my head. To think that the chaos I often feel is also the NORM of many of my colleagues. It is so commendable and yet so crazy! And as crazy as we may seem to others, I can honestly say, I enjoy being in my classroom. You never know what the day may bring. There is no other occupation like ours. I love when children have those "lightbulb" moments! Thank you to all of you for being "CRAZY' like me! - :o) Miki

Miki…I second that thought! :0) Here’s to “craziness,” festive days, and all of our school ohana (our wonderful extended family we have come to love)! We appreciate you!!! ~<3 k.chong

You are so right Miki!! I love my kids and being a teacher...but some days I feel physically, emotionally, and mentally drained. Then I go home and start it all over again in the morning!! Then I see the smiling faces of our students and I think how can I not just love my job! I am glad to know others are feeling the same way!~Jolene

So true! Just in the past weeks, I had a couple of people comment to me about being a teacher saying, "I don't know how you do it", and "You must be crazy to be a teacher. I know I couldn't". It made me wonder why I do it, and yes, it is for the kids! Kudos to every teacher out there for being their for our keiki. ~Davin

I agree with all of you! I think all teachers work for love because we definitely don't do it to become rich! Each and every year I have parents who can't believe I can handle all my wonderful preschoolers because they have a hard enough time dealing with their own children! But like Miki said, nothing can compare to when your student has a "lightbulb" moment, or when they say the craziest things, or when they simply give you a hug for no reason. Those things make the fatigue, illnesses, and frustrations all worth it! ~RK

I definitely think it is hard being a teacher. I learned this very quickly. I always assumed before I started teaching, teaching was about the dry erase boards and grading. Haha was I wrong. I think a lot of ppl have a misconception that teaching isn't a 24/7 job and they would love to have summers off. They just don't understand. Teaching is a 24/7 job, even while I am having dinner trying to relax I think about the next day in our classroom. I am constantly thinking. I think teaching is a hard job, but very rewarding. When you wake up thinking I'd rather go to work today instead of go to the beach you know your not working, but doing what you love. ~ Victoria 10/15