A Good Reread

Over this past break, I reread the book 15 Fixes for Broken Grades by Ken O'Connor, which was followed by a discussion with Ms. Johnson today. We agreed that this is a book that can lead to both and emotional and philosophical discussion. I believe it is a must read for anyone who is involved with teaching and learning: school and home!

Another thought provoking book on the same topic is Rick Wormeli's Fair Isn't Always Equal. This books gets to the heart of meeting students needs and providing essential feedback.

These two coupled together are a great combination to spark the fire in any discussion!

Rest and Relaxation

I hope everyone is taking time over this break to rest and relax. I know that past couple of days have been very relaxing as I have had some time outdoors and with family. It's nice to sit back and enjoy having some time to think. This past week, I was working on the master schedule, which makes us think about next year, and changes that have to be made, or things that need to be tweaked. As you know, from previous entries, Virginia is working on a growth model to measure student growth - the crux of making this accountability measure happen - the master schedule of course. I have always said that no single thing in schools has a greater impact than the master schedule. It truly affects everyone in the school - yes, bigger than the budget. Therefore, it is so important to constantly revisit and revise the schedule to meet your organizational needs every year. It was nice to be able to work on the schedule when I had time to think - the trouble shoot - and review as needed.

Spring Break

I hope everyone enjoys the much needed spring break. Take some time over this break to read a great book or engage in a conversation about learning. Most of all, enjoy sleeping in. We will be back to the early start Huskies before you know it!

Technology and time

Last week I sent an email to the staff about the use of technology and how sometimes it makes us more efficient and sometimes it doesn't. For the past couple of weeks, I have been, for the most part, sans internet and cable TV. The good news is that I have been very productive in my spare time. So my question is, does the technology really make us more efficient? I encourage everyone to think about what technology you currently use and ask yourself if it makes you more productive. If not, is it something you can part with, or use less of? Time is such a precious resource and I think that any time we can figure out a way to capitalize on that we should. Take some time to think about where you spend your time - Do you need it? Does it make you better at what you do? If you can part with it, what will you do with your time?

Community

When we think about where we live, we strive for a nice and safe. When we think about where we work, we strive for collegiality. When we think about where we play, we want everyone to demonstrate sportsmanship. This list goes on, but one common thread in all of these is community. A word that can have multiple meanings and purposes. Last night I participated in the FCCPS March Mayhem event, which demonstrated a strong sense of community. We filled the gym, raised money for the PTA's, played a fun game of basketball, and demonstrated our school spirit. An event that can bring together over 1000 people for the purpose of the betterment of our schools - that's community! Faces of all ages sporting their school colors, signs for their favorite staff player, and overall excitement for the game. A fun, yet spirited, way to show love and pride for community and school. I want to personally thank the parents who organize this event every year as well as the staff members who agree to play. What a way to start a weekend!