Dear New Teacher, I am sure you have heard many teachers in your college classes, your mentor teacher, or even friends of yours who may have graduated college before you talk about how difficult the first year of teaching is.
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The Fate of Algebra 2: Euclid, Cicero, or Boaler?
“The laws of nature are but the mathematical thoughts of God.” Euclid, in Euclid’s Elements. “We have established as the limit of this art [mathematics] its usefulness in measuring and counting.” Cicero, as quoted by Leonard Mlodinow. “The powerful thinkers
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A Small Tribute to Maria Montessori
While reading about Dr. Maria Montessori’s life, I became curious about her relationship with America. Her initial interactions with the presidential elite suggested that she was poised to provide the blueprint for the American education system. Then, it fizzled out.
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Yes or No on Algebra 2?
Az House Bill 2278 would eliminate Algebra 2 as a high school graduation requirement. Below are some spontaneous thoughts that come to mind as I process a coherent opinion (stay tuned) about the bill. In the proposed bill, Algebra and
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I Made It. I’m still here.
Do you know why birds sign just before dawn? Scientists believe it’s to tell their mate they made it through the night, as a way of saying, “I’m still here.” Maybe that’s why we sing too-as a way of
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Teacher’s Personal Perspective
For this month, I wanted to interview teachers at different experience levels and see how similar or different their answers are depending on their experience in the classroom. The teachers that participated have taught for 2 years, 5 years, 9
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Behind the Curtain
My favorite movie is The Wizard of Oz, and this week I was thinking about it. Specifically, the scene where Dorothy and her companions get to meet the Wizard, only to see he is actually a con-man. “Pay no attention
Read MoreWhat Do You Do with That?
One of the greatest cruelties of capitalism is its view of utility. All too often, and in almost every sphere of activity, we are conditioned to produce. We no longer recognize any significance in the ding an sich – Kant’s
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Hanging On
Not too long ago I listened to a couple colleagues talk about retirement. They had their countdown calculated to the day, hour, and minute. I remember being amused. I was genuinely happy for them and appreciated their excitement over their impending
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Professional Development
How many of us look forward to hearing that we have a professional development training we must attend? Each month, our staff is required to attend an on-site PD. They are usually very general and broad, covering a wide variety
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