In 1790, conservative political philosopher Edmund Burke wrote in Reflections on the Revolution in France: “A state without the means of some change is without the means of its conservation.” Clay Shirky, expert on the role of social media and
Read MoreWhat If? (#3) OR Why My Teacher Website is So Ugly
Teachers and students working in the classroom often know the tech tools we need, and we can learn them an implement them if the systems in our schools are responsive enough to meet our needs quickly.
Read MoreThe Biggest Loser in Education
I am a fan of “The Biggest Loser,” the reality-television show which rewards one person with the biggest weight loss after undergoing 12 intensive weeks of healthy eating and strenuous workouts with trainers. While viewing the season finale this week,
Read MoreBirthday Wishes
A couple of weeks ago, I was celebrating my birthday with my wife and son–Dora and Manuel. As we finished dinner and lit the candles on my birthday cake, both Dora and Manuel said, “Make a Wish” before blowing out
Read MoreThe Problem with VAM Scores
Before the district kill-and-drill benchmark test, a student says to me, "You look stressed." "I'm fine," I lie, offering a grin that looks more like a grimace. "I normally blow off the test, but my mom says you could lose
Read MoreIt’s Complicated
The other day I was listening to a news program on the radio about national parks. The scientist on the show suggested that restrictive boundaries around park lands are not actually good for wildlife. Animals need corridors. If a particular species
Read MoreHalf Empty or Half Full
I recently read a post on Facebook… A psychologist walked around a room while teaching stress management to an audience. As she raised a glass of water, everyone expected they’d be asked the “half empty or half full” question. Instead,
Read MoreI Am Afraid of Babies
The word makes me shudder, cringe and cower. Unless it is preceeded by the phrase, “You’ve come a long way,” I don’t want to hear about babies. Or pregnancies. Shower? It better involve a spout, steam, and a whole lot
Read MoreTeacher-Defining Moments
After attending an educator’s conference this past weekend, I was inspired with a question to ponder, “How does my background impact my effectiveness as an educator?” I am sure you recognize the phrase, “My life flashed before my eyes.” Well, the
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