We Have to Stop Pretending

I've read Scott McLeod's post and challenge: "When it comes to education, what are 5 things that we have to stop pretending?"

I'm in, although it's hard to stop at five.

We have to stop pretending:

1. That all kids need to learn exactly the same things.
2. That standardized tests are capable of measuring what's really important when it comes to student learning.
3. That simply purchasing technology will change the way teachers teach and students learn.
4. That all teachers will be successful teaching in exactly the same way as other successful teachers/That all classrooms should look exactly alike.
5. That co-curricular activities are luxuries and expendable.

This conversation needs to reach epic proportions, and educators from all over the world need to be chiming in. There is nothing more important than the education of our children, and many of our current assumptions are not only misguided but destructive.

#makeschooldifferent

What do you think?

We Love to Learn to Read!

Kara Harder sent me the cutest pictures of her students using technology to improve their reading. It's gratifying to see our students so happily learning. Afterall, that's what it's all about, isn't it?

There is Still a Disconnect

Once in awhile I'm reminded of the disconnect there is between IT and tech integrationists, tech integrationists and teachers, and teachers and administrators. This has been one of those weeks.

And the problem is that when we don't all work together towards a shared vision, we aren't the losers, no matter how uncomfortable we may feel.

The losers are the students. Day after day. Month after month. Year after year.

What will it take for us all to share a vision? To work together? To do what's best for students?

Changing Education - New Ideas

Sometimes it's easier to go along to get along, but as I read the reports from teachers around the nation and the reactions from their students to some of what goes on in schools day after day, year after year, I so often think to myself, "Has anyone considered doing it this way?" Sure, it's easier to keep doing what we've always done, but maybe, just maybe, we could do better.

This advertisement from General Electric has me out of my seat every time I see it, because it is so spot on when it comes to new ideas and change.



I see the blossoming of our schools as well as the blossoming of our individual students. What do you see?

Powerful Students - Powerful Education

A friend of mine posted this picture on Facebook, and I immediately asked if I could use it in my blog. Luckily, she said, "Yes!"

This picture symbolizes all that our Public Schools should provide for our students.

Self-Confidence
Respect for Others
Pride
Teamwork and Collaboration
Engagement
Hard Work
Caring and Empathy
Diversity
Fun!
Friendship
Common Goals
Individual Strengths
Community Involvement
A Love for Learning

My initial inclination was to write a lot about the picture, but I don't think it's necessary. It speaks for itself - If you will listen.

High School Renovation Continues

The renovation at the High School continues, and we were so pleased a couple of weeks ago to hook up wireless access points, projectors, SmartBoards, and wired network ports for our new classrooms. Our crowning achievements so far have been our beautiful color coordinated distribution closets. We love them!

The Educational Technology Department looks forward to all the learning improvements that will be a part of this extensive renovation project.

We Are Family

What fun to see all our little cheerleaders and their families tonight!