Summer Algebra 2

I have 41 students in my summer school class. We meet five hours a day. This is not a sarcastic comment: the class is really going okay. It's actually quite enjoyable. The students participate, and it's pretty quiet when I teach. Twelve days per session, I'm teaching both sessions. Two days down, twenty-two to go.

The Element (Chpt. 2)

In chapter two, "Think Differently", Robinson continues to argue against standardized tests. Tests such as the SATs measure mathematics and verbal reasoning skills, not intelligence. Intelligence, manifested in multiple forms, is diverse, dynamic, and distinct. Millions of hours are spent by motivated and bright teenagers in studying for the SATs during the prime of their lives. What a waste!

It's a wrap

The school year is over. There are mixed emotions at the end of an academic term: exhaustion, gratitude, and satisfaction. I also have a profound sense of emptiness. The classroom is physically emptied of students. My calendar is emptied of appointments (for a few days). The energy and spirit in my gas tank is also emptied. I am so tired. Another chapter closes. This chapter leaves me with more questions than answers, but I'll turn the page. Summer school starts Wednesday.

Retirement Luncheon

We celebrated the retirement of a few veteran teachers. They all seemed to be in good spirit and happy to be retiring. One of the teachers has taught at this school for 38 years. Congratulations to them all.

On my way back home, I picked up a new laptop computer. I intend to make the best of it this coming school year. This is only my beginning.

Sierra HS Graduation

Our district's continuation high school held its commencement this afternoon. The students invited former teachers who had positively influenced them to attend the ceremony. I was honored to have been invited by two of the graduates, Chris and Irene. It was a nice, short, and simply event as I walked with the graduates in traditional gowns. Congratulations to SHS c/o 2010. I'm proud that you seized the opportunity to make the best of your second chances.

The Element (Chpt. 1)

Sir Ken Robinson is one of my favorite speakers, I'm a huge fan of his first and second talk. I am reading his book, The Element. In the first chapter, he points out three features in the U.S. education system. First, it is focused on academic ability, particularly with words and numbers. Second, it has a hierarchy of subjects. And third, it is highly reliant on particular types of assessment. Consequently, children do not get the opportunities to explore their talents. How can we find our passion and our element. "The features are aptitude and passion. The conditions are attitude and opportunity. The sequence goes something like this: I get it; I love it; I want it; Where is it?"

From the Coach

“Things turn out best for people who make the best of the way things turn out.” - John Wooden

photo from: http://www.socksoff.co.uk

My 1st Prezi

Design_Paper on Prezi

If you don't see the Prezi, click on the frame, it may take a moment to load.

Dan Pink on motivation

The surprising findings on what motivates us. I always wished I had artistic skills like this.