Not to relive the disaster of a TV falling on me last week....
I awoke Monday morning and thought I was finally getting some relief. The wife and I were going to do some last minute gift shopping, revisit the doctor's office for final checkup and perhaps have dinner. Relaxing....
My daughter calls and needs to be picked up from an auto repair shop..no problem since it was on the list of things to do. The problem started when:
I backed my truck up out of the driveway and found that my newly replaced windshield wiper had been busted off and a rear tire had been slashed. Not wanting to be too late in picking up my daughter I moved the truck back to its spot in the driveway and cleared off my wife's Saturn. As I back into the road I realized that the passenger side was sitting rather low, so I got out (yes, still in the road) and found BOTH passenger tires had been slashed. The car limped back into the driveway.
A kind neighbor took me to pick up my daughter (thanks Wally!). When I returned home I walked up to the Redford police station, filed a report and waited (and waited) for a patrol car to come to the house to investigate. Meanwhile I had contacted AAA, who was NO help whatsoever and a tow truck company.
VERY long story short, the damaged tires are under two claims and therefore two separate deductibles (thanks AAA!!!!) and AAA was too busy to handle my request to tow, so $120 out of pocket both vehicles were towed to the same repair shop that my duaghter's car was at.
Today, I have the car back, but the truck tire had to be specially ordered, and will arrive later this week.
Who could have slashed three tires and broken windshield wipers? My neighbor who was pissed because I refuse to let him panhandle, or gain entry into my house. To make it worse he also slashed my other neighbor's tire at the same time. The police, have been useless unless we see him in the act (thanks Redford 911!!!)
Hopefully 2008 will end quickly and 2009 will improve!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Injuries on the job
I'm wondering if there is anyone out there who might have experience filing a lawsuit against their school for an injury on the job? Was it worth the trouble? Any advice or areas to watch out for?
Sunday, December 14, 2008
December Concerts
For the most part the high school concerts are over, with the last one being tonight. We usually perform for several local organizations, and this year we've continued singing for the local Sister City Organization. These are generous people who promote peace with people in Austria. The typically have us entertain them and in turn donate to our choir fund. In addition they always give the kids a small gift, and have fed our accompanist and myself. I hope we'll be able to continue entertaining them in the future!
The high school concert was this past Tuesday. The Concert Choir and Madrigal Chorale performed for about 90 minutes. Both groups did a great job and I was pleased with their progress and growth over the past few weeks! I even noticed an improvement in the Chorale's performance this evening, compared to the Tuesday concert. They are younger than many of the previous years groups, but have great heart and talent. I believe their school concert performance helped solidify their sense of "family" and will continue to help them perform as a more unified ensemble.
Our middle school concerts are this coming week. Due to the "wisdom" of our central administration I'm directing the 6th and 8th grade choirs, while the 7th grade choir is under the direction of our band director. We hold the 6th grade band and choir concert together, and the 7th and 8th grade choir concert on a separate night. This means that I'm required to spend two nights performing, and then only a portion of the concert. Hopefully the middle school kids will sing well also?!
We close the school year at the middle school with an all school assembly. The 7th & 8th grade choirs and bands perform plus the attached units. It's a good chance for the kids to perform for their friends before they break for Christmas. The week will go by quickly, so vacation isn't too far away.
Merry Christmas!
The high school concert was this past Tuesday. The Concert Choir and Madrigal Chorale performed for about 90 minutes. Both groups did a great job and I was pleased with their progress and growth over the past few weeks! I even noticed an improvement in the Chorale's performance this evening, compared to the Tuesday concert. They are younger than many of the previous years groups, but have great heart and talent. I believe their school concert performance helped solidify their sense of "family" and will continue to help them perform as a more unified ensemble.
Our middle school concerts are this coming week. Due to the "wisdom" of our central administration I'm directing the 6th and 8th grade choirs, while the 7th grade choir is under the direction of our band director. We hold the 6th grade band and choir concert together, and the 7th and 8th grade choir concert on a separate night. This means that I'm required to spend two nights performing, and then only a portion of the concert. Hopefully the middle school kids will sing well also?!
We close the school year at the middle school with an all school assembly. The 7th & 8th grade choirs and bands perform plus the attached units. It's a good chance for the kids to perform for their friends before they break for Christmas. The week will go by quickly, so vacation isn't too far away.
Merry Christmas!
Friday, November 7, 2008
November Updates
Well the first marking period for the 2008 - 2009 school year is over. It has gone by quickly, and soon Thanksgiving and Christmas will be upon us. Performance requests are starting to come in and the holiday music selections are being rehearsed.
Music for the church choir is being pulled for the beginning of Advent and Christmas services. We continue to fight for choir members to show up to rehearsals on an even semi-regular basis. People are fighting colds and illnesses as the weather turns colder, but are they missing for other reasons? Jobs, family responsibilities, or other unknown reasons....
It's difficult to maintain sanity, maybe the word should be "energy", trying to motivate and encourage people to participate. I always wonder if it's me, the economy, depression; or is it "their" problem or fault?
Move on, just keep moving forward and be positive.
Music for the church choir is being pulled for the beginning of Advent and Christmas services. We continue to fight for choir members to show up to rehearsals on an even semi-regular basis. People are fighting colds and illnesses as the weather turns colder, but are they missing for other reasons? Jobs, family responsibilities, or other unknown reasons....
It's difficult to maintain sanity, maybe the word should be "energy", trying to motivate and encourage people to participate. I always wonder if it's me, the economy, depression; or is it "their" problem or fault?
Move on, just keep moving forward and be positive.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Fall 2008
Well, it's officially fall, 2008. The school groups are all in session, the church choir is up and running, and it won't be long before the first set of performances and holiday concerts. Random thoughts and questions:
Why haven't we had more events in Redford's new Marquis? Afterall we spent many millions of dollars for this "gem"...so why aren't we using it? Is it that someone didn't plan enough to realize you need a person to manage these things.
Why are church choirs (especially mine) getting smaller and smaller? I have the regular groups who show up faithfully, but why are others so easily swayed from their regular rehearsal night? And then complain when the music isn't learned properly?
Alert...6th grade choir....wow, have they really changed that much since the last time I taught 6th grade?
How come Mozart doesn't write music anymore? Or Bach or Haydn, either? I do like lots of Lloyd Larson music though, even though he's not Mozart.
Why haven't we had more events in Redford's new Marquis? Afterall we spent many millions of dollars for this "gem"...so why aren't we using it? Is it that someone didn't plan enough to realize you need a person to manage these things.
Why are church choirs (especially mine) getting smaller and smaller? I have the regular groups who show up faithfully, but why are others so easily swayed from their regular rehearsal night? And then complain when the music isn't learned properly?
Alert...6th grade choir....wow, have they really changed that much since the last time I taught 6th grade?
How come Mozart doesn't write music anymore? Or Bach or Haydn, either? I do like lots of Lloyd Larson music though, even though he's not Mozart.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Using my 23 Things to Move Forward
I have a meeting scheduled for tomorrow (Monday) with my high school principal. I will be showing her the many resources presented from the 23 Things lessons. It will be my hope that by getting her enthused about the possibilities for staff development and growth that we'll be able to persuade the district IT person to loosen the reigns on the internet sites available to the school staff.
Details will follow! Wish me luck!
Details will follow! Wish me luck!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
New Opportunities - Finale
What a crazy week this has been. Tomorrow (Thursday) was supposed to have been my second interview with the Oscoda Area Schools for the Asst. Principal job for the high school. I've always said that I'd love to finish my career in that part of the state, and here it is, almost available!
Rhonda and I spent many afternoons and evenings discussing why we should go and why we shouldn't go, if offered the job. Regardless of which direction we leaned towards the one major, I mean MAJOR stumbling block was the house. It's not ready to be put on the market, and would take at least two months to get it ready. That would mean maintaining a small apartment for at least 6 months and travelling from Redford to Oscoda to Redford every weekend.
The pay for the Oscoda position is comparable to what I'm making now, so that's not an issue, but we figured that it would cost us between $1200-1500 per month in lodging, food and gas. That's just too big of a financial hit to take for an uncertain amount of time.
Last Monday I called and withdrew my name from consideration for the position. I also called my current administrators, who had already given their recommendations to the principal at Oscoda HS. I was so happy that their responses were of relief that I wouldn't be leaving the RU district, which really helped me realize that I had made a good decision.
Shortly afterward the superintendent from Oscoda called and asked why I had chosen to remove my name from the list of candidates. I explained about the financial situation and that very few job offers would have been any improvement in finances. She completely understood. She then told me that I had been the #1 contender for the position and that I could change my mind, right now, if I wanted to and the job would be mine. I thanked her and politely declined.
So what have I learned from all of this?
1. I am marketable
2. I interview well
3. I am appreciated by my current employer and administrators
4. We really need to whip this house into shape
5. The economy in Michigan is NOT to be taken for granted...it's bad, and could get
worse!
6. My wife and I really do agree on lots of things
7. I enjoy camping and travelling anywhere I want to go
8. Someday, just not this year, I'll make a good administrator
I've slept better than I have for the past two weeks!
Rhonda and I spent many afternoons and evenings discussing why we should go and why we shouldn't go, if offered the job. Regardless of which direction we leaned towards the one major, I mean MAJOR stumbling block was the house. It's not ready to be put on the market, and would take at least two months to get it ready. That would mean maintaining a small apartment for at least 6 months and travelling from Redford to Oscoda to Redford every weekend.
The pay for the Oscoda position is comparable to what I'm making now, so that's not an issue, but we figured that it would cost us between $1200-1500 per month in lodging, food and gas. That's just too big of a financial hit to take for an uncertain amount of time.
Last Monday I called and withdrew my name from consideration for the position. I also called my current administrators, who had already given their recommendations to the principal at Oscoda HS. I was so happy that their responses were of relief that I wouldn't be leaving the RU district, which really helped me realize that I had made a good decision.
Shortly afterward the superintendent from Oscoda called and asked why I had chosen to remove my name from the list of candidates. I explained about the financial situation and that very few job offers would have been any improvement in finances. She completely understood. She then told me that I had been the #1 contender for the position and that I could change my mind, right now, if I wanted to and the job would be mine. I thanked her and politely declined.
So what have I learned from all of this?
1. I am marketable
2. I interview well
3. I am appreciated by my current employer and administrators
4. We really need to whip this house into shape
5. The economy in Michigan is NOT to be taken for granted...it's bad, and could get
worse!
6. My wife and I really do agree on lots of things
7. I enjoy camping and travelling anywhere I want to go
8. Someday, just not this year, I'll make a good administrator
I've slept better than I have for the past two weeks!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Summer Vacation
Well, I need a break from all of the things floating around in my head...maybe that's why I have a slight headache?
Here are some summer pictures from our recent visit to Bowling Green, KY and the Lost River Cave. We had a great underground boat tour. On the day the outside temps were low to mid 90s, so the 56 degree temps inside the cave were welcomed. Unfortunately the pictures inside the cave didn't turn out. They also have a great butterfly house on the site, that's were the flower pictures were taken. I hope you enjoy them!
New Opportunities - Part II
Well the interview happened yesterday. I think it went very well. The atmosphere was relaxed, and I was told that this was a "Chance to get to know you..." type of interview that should last about 20 minutes. Geesh, I traveled nearly 200 miles for a "chat"? Well, it lasted nearly 40 minutes, which is good I guess. There were many direct questions, some admittedly on the "second level interview" type. I could see the superintendent and hs principal writing many notes on their scripts, another good sign I hope.
The next level interviews will take place next week, with a larger panel of 15 to 17 people. I'll hear if I made the callbacks by tomorrow, and then the real hemming and hawing will occur.
Can I afford to take this job? How long will it take to prep and sell the house at home? Where will I/we live in the meantime? What to do with the chinchillas? (After all they don't make a house sell faster because they're so messy.) Can I manage to keep my church job until I can pick up some extra bucks in the new town? Lots to think about, but again perhaps I'm putting the cart before the horse.
My oldest daughter tells me to stop worrying and follow my heart. That's great advice, and I love her for it, but maybe I'm just to pragmatic at this age in my life. The saga will continue, at least until Thursday's "call".
The next level interviews will take place next week, with a larger panel of 15 to 17 people. I'll hear if I made the callbacks by tomorrow, and then the real hemming and hawing will occur.
Can I afford to take this job? How long will it take to prep and sell the house at home? Where will I/we live in the meantime? What to do with the chinchillas? (After all they don't make a house sell faster because they're so messy.) Can I manage to keep my church job until I can pick up some extra bucks in the new town? Lots to think about, but again perhaps I'm putting the cart before the horse.
My oldest daughter tells me to stop worrying and follow my heart. That's great advice, and I love her for it, but maybe I'm just to pragmatic at this age in my life. The saga will continue, at least until Thursday's "call".
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
New Opportunities
Today could possibly be the beginning of a new chapter in my life and that of my wife and son, who's still living at home. I'm going on a job interview.
I have a job, actually two of them. My main job is music teacher at a public high school and middle school in Redford, MI. I've been there quite some time and have enjoyed my stay there. I'm also the minister of music at a local Catholic church in town, and have been there longer than at the schools. Again, I'm happy there, although feeling taken for granted and forgotten at times.
In May of 2007 I completed a MSA in Educational Leadership at Madonna University. I believe I want to be a principal, or at least assistant principal, somewhere. Ideally with only a few years to go before retiring I'd like to find a spot up north, and fade peacefully away into the woods and lakes.
After two summers of looking and sending resumes I have finally landed an interview, and yes, it's up north. I've quickly learned that most school districts hire from within, no surprise, and that they are not usually interested in someone from outside of their own district. So the lack of interviews doesn't sting quite so badly.
The key words that come into play now are: "What if..."
What if I do get the offer: will we be able to sell the house, how much money will I make, will it cover the possible lost income of the church job, where will our son live while he's at college, etc. and the list goes on and on. Usually it goes on about 3am while I'm trying to sleep.
We're supposed to go camping next week. "IF" I get called back for a second or third interview should we cancel the trip, or should I bring a suit along and travel down from the UP to get there?
I'll be leaving for this interview in less than an hour. I feel prepared because I know I can do the job; it's a job that I want to take. Is it the right decision, or am I putting the cart before the horse here?
To be continued....
I have a job, actually two of them. My main job is music teacher at a public high school and middle school in Redford, MI. I've been there quite some time and have enjoyed my stay there. I'm also the minister of music at a local Catholic church in town, and have been there longer than at the schools. Again, I'm happy there, although feeling taken for granted and forgotten at times.
In May of 2007 I completed a MSA in Educational Leadership at Madonna University. I believe I want to be a principal, or at least assistant principal, somewhere. Ideally with only a few years to go before retiring I'd like to find a spot up north, and fade peacefully away into the woods and lakes.
After two summers of looking and sending resumes I have finally landed an interview, and yes, it's up north. I've quickly learned that most school districts hire from within, no surprise, and that they are not usually interested in someone from outside of their own district. So the lack of interviews doesn't sting quite so badly.
The key words that come into play now are: "What if..."
What if I do get the offer: will we be able to sell the house, how much money will I make, will it cover the possible lost income of the church job, where will our son live while he's at college, etc. and the list goes on and on. Usually it goes on about 3am while I'm trying to sleep.
We're supposed to go camping next week. "IF" I get called back for a second or third interview should we cancel the trip, or should I bring a suit along and travel down from the UP to get there?
I'll be leaving for this interview in less than an hour. I feel prepared because I know I can do the job; it's a job that I want to take. Is it the right decision, or am I putting the cart before the horse here?
To be continued....
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Musical Youth International (MYI)
A colleague of mine encouraged me to join Facebook the other day, and so I did. In exploring the different people I might know I thought I'd take a chance and enter "Musical Youth International" into the search bar. Lo and behold there was actually a group formed on Facebook for that very organization. Granted I would become only the 4th member of the group, but it did bring back some wonderful memories.
The group was formed in 1964 by Dr. Lester McCoy and his wife, Bernice. It comprised a high school and chorus, both directed by McCoy for awhile, and was based out of Saline, Michigan. MYI was part of the People to People organization started by President Eisenhour. The purpose of the ensembles was to present concerts in foreign countries to promote unity among people around the world. After Dr. McCoy passed away his wife continued in her husband's footsteps and kept the organization going, expanding to a separate chorus and band director. I do believe they traveled at least once to every major continent.
During the summer of 1974, while a senior in high school, I auditioned to become a member of the choir and was accepted. We rehearsed Sunday afternoons in Saline during the school year. Once school was completed we had a week on "intensive" rehearsals, and departed around the beginning of July for a 4 1/2 week tour of Venezuela, Belize and Mexico. During our tour we gave over 30 performances, some big and some small. On our return to the USA we gave a "post tour" concert at Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor, on the University of Michigan campus.
To be continued....
The group was formed in 1964 by Dr. Lester McCoy and his wife, Bernice. It comprised a high school and chorus, both directed by McCoy for awhile, and was based out of Saline, Michigan. MYI was part of the People to People organization started by President Eisenhour. The purpose of the ensembles was to present concerts in foreign countries to promote unity among people around the world. After Dr. McCoy passed away his wife continued in her husband's footsteps and kept the organization going, expanding to a separate chorus and band director. I do believe they traveled at least once to every major continent.
During the summer of 1974, while a senior in high school, I auditioned to become a member of the choir and was accepted. We rehearsed Sunday afternoons in Saline during the school year. Once school was completed we had a week on "intensive" rehearsals, and departed around the beginning of July for a 4 1/2 week tour of Venezuela, Belize and Mexico. During our tour we gave over 30 performances, some big and some small. On our return to the USA we gave a "post tour" concert at Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor, on the University of Michigan campus.
To be continued....
Friday, July 25, 2008
Summer Music Listening
I don't know about educators in other fields but summer months for music teachers is the time we spend listening to new music, trying to find just the right arrangements to fit our ensembles for the coming school year. The problem is that we rarely know for certain who is going to be in these ensembles.
For the middle school it will be questions like: Will there be any boys in the groups, how many hundreds of kids are we talking about, will I have any real sopranos, or altos, can they carry a tune, can they sing about a C (octave above middle c), can the altos and boys hold their voice part, etc.
High school is a little more predictable, especially if you have an auditioned group. But sometimes the scheduling doesn't work out, or their family suddenly moves during the summer and your star basso profundo is suddenly gone from the school.
The summer music listening is also the time that drives my wife crazy! My listening habits usually include 15-30 second snipits of songs. I figure if it doesn't grab me in the first 30 seconds it's not going to happen. Some songs you know in the first 5 seconds that it's not right for you, or your group, and others may take the full 30 seconds. Occasionally I'll listen to what I consider to be a really corny song, and I'll leave it on for the entire recording, just to see how long it will take my wife to comment on it. (Not very long I may add!).
I also do some listening for my church choir. I've found that I really like the music from Beckenhorst Press. Their composers have some really nice anthems, IMO, and I've ordered many of them with great success and happiness.
As we begin the final month of freedom before school starts I'll pick up my pace of music listening. I do this so that my wife is thoroughly ready for me to return to school/church, so she can begin her period of relaxation and quiet.
For the middle school it will be questions like: Will there be any boys in the groups, how many hundreds of kids are we talking about, will I have any real sopranos, or altos, can they carry a tune, can they sing about a C (octave above middle c), can the altos and boys hold their voice part, etc.
High school is a little more predictable, especially if you have an auditioned group. But sometimes the scheduling doesn't work out, or their family suddenly moves during the summer and your star basso profundo is suddenly gone from the school.
The summer music listening is also the time that drives my wife crazy! My listening habits usually include 15-30 second snipits of songs. I figure if it doesn't grab me in the first 30 seconds it's not going to happen. Some songs you know in the first 5 seconds that it's not right for you, or your group, and others may take the full 30 seconds. Occasionally I'll listen to what I consider to be a really corny song, and I'll leave it on for the entire recording, just to see how long it will take my wife to comment on it. (Not very long I may add!).
I also do some listening for my church choir. I've found that I really like the music from Beckenhorst Press. Their composers have some really nice anthems, IMO, and I've ordered many of them with great success and happiness.
As we begin the final month of freedom before school starts I'll pick up my pace of music listening. I do this so that my wife is thoroughly ready for me to return to school/church, so she can begin her period of relaxation and quiet.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Monday, June 30, 2008
23 Things Follow-up Survey
Even after the class has finished you've followed up by using another great site for the survey. Zoomerang is a great tool that will be very useful in surveys for students, parents, staff and community.
Way to go!!! A+++
http://www.zoomerang.com/
Way to go!!! A+++
http://www.zoomerang.com/
Thursday, June 26, 2008
S. Redford Schools Vote to Retain Vocal Music
According to today's Redford Observer the South Redford Board of Education decided to reinstate vocal music at the middle and high school levels, in addition to an arts teacher who also has classes in both grade level buildings. These positions are kept inspite of cutting $2 million from their budget for the 2008 - 2009 school year.
This is a school district that just completed nearly $35 million in renovations, including a new performing arts facility.
Why do these districts spend millions of dollars to renovate schools and then decide they don't have enough funds to hire teachers? I know enough about school financing to realize that the monies are from different "pockets" but let's be realistic here people.
Anyway, kudos to the SR Board of Ed for keeping choir and art at the secondary level!
This is a school district that just completed nearly $35 million in renovations, including a new performing arts facility.
Why do these districts spend millions of dollars to renovate schools and then decide they don't have enough funds to hire teachers? I know enough about school financing to realize that the monies are from different "pockets" but let's be realistic here people.
Anyway, kudos to the SR Board of Ed for keeping choir and art at the secondary level!
Monday, June 23, 2008
S. Redford Cuts Update
According to our local newsrag (Redford Observer) the proposed budget cuts for our neighboring school district seem to be heading for approval. I wish them well.
Our district (Redford Union) has been dealing with budget cuts, downsizing, trimming the fat, or whatever you want to call it, for what seems like forever. An editorial headline in the Detroit News tells the Detroit Public School chief to look to the Ford Motor Company to learn how to deal with cuts before it becomes too late. I laugh because I think Ford called Redford Union to see what to do?!
I do remember our union leaders and administrators telling the staff that the problem is greater than the apparent mismanagement of funds, at least in our district. The real problem is school funding from the state. We were told that it wouldn't be long before every district, even the "rich" ones would be affected. I believe that time is here. In addition the souring economy in the state certainly doesn't help the overall picture of school finances.
Our district (Redford Union) has been dealing with budget cuts, downsizing, trimming the fat, or whatever you want to call it, for what seems like forever. An editorial headline in the Detroit News tells the Detroit Public School chief to look to the Ford Motor Company to learn how to deal with cuts before it becomes too late. I laugh because I think Ford called Redford Union to see what to do?!
I do remember our union leaders and administrators telling the staff that the problem is greater than the apparent mismanagement of funds, at least in our district. The real problem is school funding from the state. We were told that it wouldn't be long before every district, even the "rich" ones would be affected. I believe that time is here. In addition the souring economy in the state certainly doesn't help the overall picture of school finances.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
South Redford Schools Cut Secondary Vocal Music
This article was released in the Redford Observer Newspaper this evening. You can read by clicking on the title above.
South Redford school officials agreed to slice $2 million from next year's budget, largely by laying off eight teachers and cutting the district's busing program in half by eliminating busing to Thurston High School.
During a tumultuous, standing-room-only school board meeting Monday, board members also chose to increase the pay-to-participate fees (to $150 for Thurston, $100 for Pierce Middle School); eliminate the high school athletic director position, but roll those duties into the Thurston assistant principal job; move to fall elections; and slash the extra club pay for teachers and staff from $300,000 to $100,000.
Two other teaching jobs were eliminated, the vocal music director for secondary school and the vacant home economics position.
Board members plan to approve a budget by June 23 to meet state requirements. The $2 million shortfall was based on a budget planned to have no increase in state per-pupil funding, but also contractual increases in longevity pay and retirements and big fuel price hikes. The district also lost almost $300,000 in local revenue, due to fewer tuition students and less adult education and latch-key income, officials said.
School board members shared frustrations with the process and the timing. Supt. Linda Hicks and business manager Teresa Davis worked through a PowerPoint presentation of $7 million options for cuts that were projected onto a screen as board members asked questions or tried to reach consensus. No votes were taken, though.
South Redford school officials agreed to slice $2 million from next year's budget, largely by laying off eight teachers and cutting the district's busing program in half by eliminating busing to Thurston High School.
During a tumultuous, standing-room-only school board meeting Monday, board members also chose to increase the pay-to-participate fees (to $150 for Thurston, $100 for Pierce Middle School); eliminate the high school athletic director position, but roll those duties into the Thurston assistant principal job; move to fall elections; and slash the extra club pay for teachers and staff from $300,000 to $100,000.
Two other teaching jobs were eliminated, the vocal music director for secondary school and the vacant home economics position.
Board members plan to approve a budget by June 23 to meet state requirements. The $2 million shortfall was based on a budget planned to have no increase in state per-pupil funding, but also contractual increases in longevity pay and retirements and big fuel price hikes. The district also lost almost $300,000 in local revenue, due to fewer tuition students and less adult education and latch-key income, officials said.
School board members shared frustrations with the process and the timing. Supt. Linda Hicks and business manager Teresa Davis worked through a PowerPoint presentation of $7 million options for cuts that were projected onto a screen as board members asked questions or tried to reach consensus. No votes were taken, though.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
How I'm Spending Summer Vacation
* Update blog and wiki page
* Go through all the neat pages I've bookmarked
* Play computer games until my wrist is aching
* Read my journals that I've neglected all year
* Create my To Do list on 30 boxes
* Watch the Tonight Show
* Get off the PC to actually start working on my To Do list
Hey, I actually did create the list and accomplish one thing on it today. It took me about 3.5 hours, so I feel I've actually done something today! Tomorrow is another day tho...I may need to rest from all that work!
* Go through all the neat pages I've bookmarked
* Play computer games until my wrist is aching
* Read my journals that I've neglected all year
* Create my To Do list on 30 boxes
* Watch the Tonight Show
* Get off the PC to actually start working on my To Do list
Hey, I actually did create the list and accomplish one thing on it today. It took me about 3.5 hours, so I feel I've actually done something today! Tomorrow is another day tho...I may need to rest from all that work!
Monday, June 16, 2008
23 Things Comes to an end
Well, the SBCEU form has been mailed and the 23 Things program is officially done for the summer (or will be very soon). The things I've learned I'm using quite regularly, especially the blog and wiki pages. I've embedded calendars, and videos and all sorts of stuff into them and many students are using them regularly (even now that school is out). I'm hopeful that it will continue to grow throughout the summer and even more when school starts in the fall.
I'm also hopeful that I'll be able to use several aspects learned and present some professional development to the high school staff next year.
Thanks to all of the 23 Thingees and presenters. It's been a great experience!
I'm also hopeful that I'll be able to use several aspects learned and present some professional development to the high school staff next year.
Thanks to all of the 23 Thingees and presenters. It's been a great experience!
Friday, June 13, 2008
Graduation Performance
Our local newspaper (and I use that term lightly) recently published an article about our high school graduation ceremony. The article basically was a teaser saying that the story, photos and names of the grads would be found on page 4. Of course page 4 contained no article, names or photos. I scrounged around online and found these photos and thought I'd load them onto my blog and wikispaces. I think they turned out nicely, but I doubt they'll be used in the newspaper.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Choir Final Exams - Part Two
Well I think I feel better now. My 5th hour Concert Choir exams are completed. Since this group is "By Audition Only" the caliber and caring of the students is much better than my 4th hour kids (see previous posting).
What this means is that fewer kids had to take the exam (even though it's a larger group) and fewer still had to pass the exam to receive credit. Roughly 80% of the students passed the exam (and I also graded it on a curve, but not nearly as large as the one for 4th hour). The two students who had to pass the exam did, quite handily, so I'm relieved at the situation.
My grades are entered, the rooms (both middle school and high school) are cleaned, so all I have to do tomorrow is turn in one set of keys and administrative stuff, pick up my paycheck, and go to the middle school staff party at a neighbor's house. I already feel my blood pressure lowering!
On a positive note, I also feel more prepared to begin next fall. I have several musical selections organized, sound bites listed on my wikispace for the students to listen to, and some new supplies ordered. I've seen classlists for the classes and they're not accurate, but I know they will change 100 times between now and the first part of September...so all in all....let SUMMER begin!
What this means is that fewer kids had to take the exam (even though it's a larger group) and fewer still had to pass the exam to receive credit. Roughly 80% of the students passed the exam (and I also graded it on a curve, but not nearly as large as the one for 4th hour). The two students who had to pass the exam did, quite handily, so I'm relieved at the situation.
My grades are entered, the rooms (both middle school and high school) are cleaned, so all I have to do tomorrow is turn in one set of keys and administrative stuff, pick up my paycheck, and go to the middle school staff party at a neighbor's house. I already feel my blood pressure lowering!
On a positive note, I also feel more prepared to begin next fall. I have several musical selections organized, sound bites listed on my wikispace for the students to listen to, and some new supplies ordered. I've seen classlists for the classes and they're not accurate, but I know they will change 100 times between now and the first part of September...so all in all....let SUMMER begin!
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Choir Final Exams
Today I gave my 4th hour choir their final exam for 2nd semester. Our school policy is that if you have more than 3 absences for the semester you must take the exam; if you have more than 10 absences you must pass the exam with a C grade to receive credit in the class. If your absences are higher than 10 per semester the grade required to pass goes up by a 1/3 of a grade for every additional 5 absences. Now the throw even more confusion into the mixture, tardies... You're allowed 3 per semester, anything after the 3rd one counts as an absence. So a student with 9 absences and 7 tardies must pass the exam with a C+ in order to receive credit for the semester.
Believe it or not this is not the basis of this rant!
What is the basis is that this choir (and I use the term loosely) was told exactly what would be covered on the exam: short answer questions about repertoire, vocal music programs in the schools, etc., eighth notes and rests, terminology (such as dynamics, tempo and expression markings), sharps/flats/naturals, whole and half steps, and enharmonic spellings. Then, they are allowed to use any materials given in class, including handouts, worksheets and previous tests. Students are given slightly over two hours to take the exam (I know...there's another rant subject).
Out of the 17 students who were required to take the exam, 6 had to pass the exam with a C or C+ (depending on absences) and one student had to pass with an A+. Fortunately for this young lady she didn't show up to take the exam and therefore automatically receives an E for the semester.
Given all of the above, two students passed the exam. The class average, including a very generous curve, was 28%. Even with the curve only three students passed the exam. Out of the 7 who HAD to pass it, only one did; the others weren't even close.
I am a good teacher, no wait...I'm a great teacher. What is it with some of these morons who sit in a chair (on a good day), day after day and nothing sinks in. No desire, no shame, no motivation. I just don't get it (and obviously they don't either). The real problem is: they don't give a damn and I do!
(Climbing down off of my soapbox now). Just one more round of exams to go!
Believe it or not this is not the basis of this rant!
What is the basis is that this choir (and I use the term loosely) was told exactly what would be covered on the exam: short answer questions about repertoire, vocal music programs in the schools, etc., eighth notes and rests, terminology (such as dynamics, tempo and expression markings), sharps/flats/naturals, whole and half steps, and enharmonic spellings. Then, they are allowed to use any materials given in class, including handouts, worksheets and previous tests. Students are given slightly over two hours to take the exam (I know...there's another rant subject).
Out of the 17 students who were required to take the exam, 6 had to pass the exam with a C or C+ (depending on absences) and one student had to pass with an A+. Fortunately for this young lady she didn't show up to take the exam and therefore automatically receives an E for the semester.
Given all of the above, two students passed the exam. The class average, including a very generous curve, was 28%. Even with the curve only three students passed the exam. Out of the 7 who HAD to pass it, only one did; the others weren't even close.
I am a good teacher, no wait...I'm a great teacher. What is it with some of these morons who sit in a chair (on a good day), day after day and nothing sinks in. No desire, no shame, no motivation. I just don't get it (and obviously they don't either). The real problem is: they don't give a damn and I do!
(Climbing down off of my soapbox now). Just one more round of exams to go!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Final Chapter
Last night (June 5th) was our annual HS Commencement Ceremony. My Chorale students sang the National Anthem, and two selections: "Come Travel With Me" and "Letting Go" from Jeykl & Hyde
One of my lead altos was Valedictorian and spoke at the ceremony. What an honor to watch her grow and know that I've had a small part in shaping her future.
One of my lead altos was Valedictorian and spoke at the ceremony. What an honor to watch her grow and know that I've had a small part in shaping her future.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
A Foot In the Door
At our June staff meeting this week the discussion turned towards Professional Development (PD) ideas for next year. I mentioned the great lessons learned here during 23 Things, and that the staff and students could benefit from many of the websites and widgets explored here. I'll be working up some ideas for our administration in hopes that we can move ahead into the late 20th century. Wait...are we still there? No, the world has moved into the 21st century, our IT is still in Windows 2000.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Neat Stuff
This wanders away from the 23 Things that have been the focus of this blog so far.
Several years ago a student in my Chorale graduated as Valedictorian at our high school. Her speech spoke of the enjoyment and growth she found in this class/choir, and what an impact the events had had on her life.
This lovely young lady got married this past weekend, and I had the honor of being asked to supply some of the music for the ceremony.
I've always enjoyed watching my students move from middle school through high school, and eventually graduating. Every so often these wonderful men and women return so that our paths cross again. It always touches me to see how they continue to grow, and hopefully not sounding too full of myself, how I'm made some small impact on their lives.
I know it certainly makes the rough times seem miniscule in comparison. I will make it through tomorrow.
Several years ago a student in my Chorale graduated as Valedictorian at our high school. Her speech spoke of the enjoyment and growth she found in this class/choir, and what an impact the events had had on her life.
This lovely young lady got married this past weekend, and I had the honor of being asked to supply some of the music for the ceremony.
I've always enjoyed watching my students move from middle school through high school, and eventually graduating. Every so often these wonderful men and women return so that our paths cross again. It always touches me to see how they continue to grow, and hopefully not sounding too full of myself, how I'm made some small impact on their lives.
I know it certainly makes the rough times seem miniscule in comparison. I will make it through tomorrow.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
What's Next?
I've spoken to several people in the know in my district and am hopeful that I can convince them that our technology needs to be improved (that's the easy part). The question is how to improve our technology and not have it cost the district much money (that's the hard part).
I'm going to begin searching for grants to help pay for funding. I'm hoping that I can post my progress and thoughts here, just to help me keep my sanity.
Some changes could be made simply by loosening the restrictions to websites that are available to the staff. Assigning usernames and passwords to every student in the district could challenging since we have only two people who take care of everything that deals with technology. Our middle school has a tech person (who teaches computers in the classroom) but even she has limited capacities when it comes to making changes. She tells me that she has fought these battles before with some slight progress. I plan to utilize her expertise and previous experiences to help pick and choose the people and battles that lay ahead.
Wish me luck!
I'm going to begin searching for grants to help pay for funding. I'm hoping that I can post my progress and thoughts here, just to help me keep my sanity.
Some changes could be made simply by loosening the restrictions to websites that are available to the staff. Assigning usernames and passwords to every student in the district could challenging since we have only two people who take care of everything that deals with technology. Our middle school has a tech person (who teaches computers in the classroom) but even she has limited capacities when it comes to making changes. She tells me that she has fought these battles before with some slight progress. I plan to utilize her expertise and previous experiences to help pick and choose the people and battles that lay ahead.
Wish me luck!
Monday, May 19, 2008
Using THINGS in the classroom
After learning about Zamzar (video conversion system online) I took several videos from YouTube that I wanted to share with my high school choir students. My plan was to play the videos on our Windows 2000 Media Player and show it on the television monitor that is in the room. Our district has TViews connected to the system to show items from our classroom pcs to the TV in the room.
Apparently the SVideo isn't compatible showing "homemade" videos through our network to the TV...the picture was very distorted. So I did the best I could and showed the videos to my classes on the pc monitor...all 13 inches of it.
Our media carts do not currently have working pcs connected to them. Maybe I should sell 100 cases of M&Ms to purchase equipment for my classroom use. No, I'll start hunting for major grants to start purchasing this stuff.
Apparently the SVideo isn't compatible showing "homemade" videos through our network to the TV...the picture was very distorted. So I did the best I could and showed the videos to my classes on the pc monitor...all 13 inches of it.
Our media carts do not currently have working pcs connected to them. Maybe I should sell 100 cases of M&Ms to purchase equipment for my classroom use. No, I'll start hunting for major grants to start purchasing this stuff.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Things - Review
I've gone back and revisited some Things and explored what they have to offer. The first one was another image generator. I created a new logo for my blog. I'm not sure I like it enough to keep it, but it will do for awhile.
The second revisit was to Knowtes.com This is a shared network for flashcards. You can view study cards created by others or simply make your own. You can set it up like Jeopardy; giving the answers and then asking for the questions, or simply giving the answer and looking for the keyword to phrase. The student clicks on the right corner if they got the answer write, or the left corner if they got it wrong. I believe the site will keep score for the person, to give them an idea of how they're doing. I'm going to explore this site some more and create some music terminology cards for my middle and high school students.
More to come, I hope!
The second revisit was to Knowtes.com This is a shared network for flashcards. You can view study cards created by others or simply make your own. You can set it up like Jeopardy; giving the answers and then asking for the questions, or simply giving the answer and looking for the keyword to phrase. The student clicks on the right corner if they got the answer write, or the left corner if they got it wrong. I believe the site will keep score for the person, to give them an idea of how they're doing. I'm going to explore this site some more and create some music terminology cards for my middle and high school students.
More to come, I hope!
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Thing 23 Reflection
Whoa...I just started....I can't be finished!!
I was worried because I didn't get the first email as scheduled, and so I started a week late, and in less than a month I've covered all of the "THINGS".
So what have a I learned? Other than the obvious sites, widgets, feeds, and terminology I've learned that Web 2.0 is where we're at, right now. The challenge will be that we won't be here long; technology is evolving faster than many of us in the classroom can even hope to keep up. Many good teachers want to keep up and move along with the students (will we, or can we, ever hope to get ahead of them in this?). Our biggest challenge will be to convince our administrators and boards of education that it is imperative that "they" work harder to keep the technology as up to date as possible in their schools and district.
I remember coming to school this past September and being thrilled that our operating system had been updated to Windows 2000! Can I shout that? WINDOWS FREAKIN' 2000!!!
With many districts (including ours) in the financial troubles they're in I'm afraid that technology will be one of the areas that will be put on the back burner, if not taken off the stove altogether.
Hopefully one solution will be to locate, apply and receive grants to help update our ancient operating systems (and perhaps our thinking) and help our schools and teachers attempt to keep up with technology and the rate in which our students are moving forward.
Where do I go from here? Well, there are several "Things" that I'll revisit and explore some of the widgets that I may have missed. I'll probably add posts on the new things I've learned.
I HAVE set up a wikispace and have had students and families use it to sign up for banquet reservations, and picnic planning for the end of the school year. Next year (more likely over the summer) I'll set up the wiki and this blog to be used by the students and their families for information and idea sharing.
This has been a truly outstanding opportunity! It has been fun and eye-opening; one that I would like to share with everyone in my school buildings. I'm hoping that someday I'll become an administrator, and I would certainly do my best to see that the staff have all of these tools and widgets available for them to use to help educate the students, families and community.
I thank you!
I was worried because I didn't get the first email as scheduled, and so I started a week late, and in less than a month I've covered all of the "THINGS".
So what have a I learned? Other than the obvious sites, widgets, feeds, and terminology I've learned that Web 2.0 is where we're at, right now. The challenge will be that we won't be here long; technology is evolving faster than many of us in the classroom can even hope to keep up. Many good teachers want to keep up and move along with the students (will we, or can we, ever hope to get ahead of them in this?). Our biggest challenge will be to convince our administrators and boards of education that it is imperative that "they" work harder to keep the technology as up to date as possible in their schools and district.
I remember coming to school this past September and being thrilled that our operating system had been updated to Windows 2000! Can I shout that? WINDOWS FREAKIN' 2000!!!
With many districts (including ours) in the financial troubles they're in I'm afraid that technology will be one of the areas that will be put on the back burner, if not taken off the stove altogether.
Hopefully one solution will be to locate, apply and receive grants to help update our ancient operating systems (and perhaps our thinking) and help our schools and teachers attempt to keep up with technology and the rate in which our students are moving forward.
Where do I go from here? Well, there are several "Things" that I'll revisit and explore some of the widgets that I may have missed. I'll probably add posts on the new things I've learned.
I HAVE set up a wikispace and have had students and families use it to sign up for banquet reservations, and picnic planning for the end of the school year. Next year (more likely over the summer) I'll set up the wiki and this blog to be used by the students and their families for information and idea sharing.
This has been a truly outstanding opportunity! It has been fun and eye-opening; one that I would like to share with everyone in my school buildings. I'm hoping that someday I'll become an administrator, and I would certainly do my best to see that the staff have all of these tools and widgets available for them to use to help educate the students, families and community.
I thank you!
Thing 22 Reflection Embedded video
I've really enjoyed learning how to add and embed videos to my posts. I found this sketch from the old Carol Burnett show. This clip is a true classic, and features Tim Conway and Harvey Corman.
I can't imagine being in Harvey's position and trying not to laugh.
I can't imagine being in Harvey's position and trying not to laugh.
Thing 21 Reflection
I've been a fan of YouTube for a long time. I currently have an account just to manage the favorites that I've seen. I also subscribe to several users and get notifications when they upload new videos. I have not yet uploaded my own video, basically because I haven't felt that I'd created anything to share.
On my personal blog, rhoevin.blogspot.com, I have links to YouTube videos with some performers that I enjoy. I have added a YouTube section in the left hand column that currently shows performances by a group called Young@Heart. Their performances are moving and very entertaining.
YouTube, like so many other wonderful sites that we've discovered on 23 Things, is not allowed on our district system. I'm trying to brainstorm to determine ways that we may be able to bipass the filter system, or perhaps download videos on a laptop and sharing at school. I'd love to hear the ideas from some others.
On my personal blog, rhoevin.blogspot.com, I have links to YouTube videos with some performers that I enjoy. I have added a YouTube section in the left hand column that currently shows performances by a group called Young@Heart. Their performances are moving and very entertaining.
YouTube, like so many other wonderful sites that we've discovered on 23 Things, is not allowed on our district system. I'm trying to brainstorm to determine ways that we may be able to bipass the filter system, or perhaps download videos on a laptop and sharing at school. I'd love to hear the ideas from some others.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Thing 20 Reflection
What was once a scary and unknown icon on some websites has now become a quick and easy tool to keep me updated on many sites that I rely on. In addition to the education and music links that I subscribe to I've found that my hobbies and interests are much easier to track and follow.
Bloglines is very easy to use and keep current. After going through the items in Thing 20 I went and quickly realized exactly how many items I subscribe to. I also quickly saw that there was nothing that I wanted to delete, or even reorganize. I did have one subscription that needed to be renamed, and that was just as easy as described in your video feed.
Thanks for sharing this invaluable tool!
Bloglines is very easy to use and keep current. After going through the items in Thing 20 I went and quickly realized exactly how many items I subscribe to. I also quickly saw that there was nothing that I wanted to delete, or even reorganize. I did have one subscription that needed to be renamed, and that was just as easy as described in your video feed.
Thanks for sharing this invaluable tool!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Thing 19 Reflection
This is a continuation about del.icio.us bookmark networking. I easily set up the account and installed the icons onto my desktop (I use Firefox most often) and started searching for sites. My first entry was for the tag "choral". Surprisingly there were thousands of sites available. More surprisingly these site links actually worked! (I've always hesitated looking at "Links" on sites simply because most of them don't work anymore.)
After scanning the list I found several that I thought were interesting and visited them. The ones that I didn't care for I left, but saved several. It was good to see the suggested tags available, and I chose many of them, and occasionally added one or two that I thought I'd find more specific. After trying several other searches I quickly found a number of sites that were exactly what I could use and had no clue that there were sites out there in cyberspace, just waiting to be tapped. Within moments I easily had added 13 sites to my list.
I also watched many of the additional videos and learned how to add people to my network, and personalize the privacy for my links and the people on the network I'll create. Importing bookmarks onto the site will also be incredibly easy, but I'm not sure that I'd want all of my home and personal sites online (although the privacy options would keep them from being seen).
I also tried accessing the site from school today, and of course it was blocked? So my question to everyone is: How do we educators get our administrations to see that there are tremendous opportunities out here that our colleagues and students are missing?
After scanning the list I found several that I thought were interesting and visited them. The ones that I didn't care for I left, but saved several. It was good to see the suggested tags available, and I chose many of them, and occasionally added one or two that I thought I'd find more specific. After trying several other searches I quickly found a number of sites that were exactly what I could use and had no clue that there were sites out there in cyberspace, just waiting to be tapped. Within moments I easily had added 13 sites to my list.
I also watched many of the additional videos and learned how to add people to my network, and personalize the privacy for my links and the people on the network I'll create. Importing bookmarks onto the site will also be incredibly easy, but I'm not sure that I'd want all of my home and personal sites online (although the privacy options would keep them from being seen).
I also tried accessing the site from school today, and of course it was blocked? So my question to everyone is: How do we educators get our administrations to see that there are tremendous opportunities out here that our colleagues and students are missing?
Monday, May 12, 2008
Thing 18 Reflection
My first thought about social bookmarking was that it was just like COWs (Classroom on the Wall). The idea was that teachers should share ideas, lessons, etc. with their colleagues by posting things on a bulletin board centrally located. Others could see, modify, or add to the idea. Of course it sounded like a great plan, but the logistics of the information didn't make it conducive for success. Social bookmarking makes the whole plan workable and expands the possibilities for ideas endless.
How well would it work in my school system? I think accessing the site would be the first question and then giving the less pc literate teachers a short professional development lesson would be the only pitfalls.
I may take the bull by the horns on this one, experiment and present it to my building administrators to see if they're interested. I'll keep you posted.
How well would it work in my school system? I think accessing the site would be the first question and then giving the less pc literate teachers a short professional development lesson would be the only pitfalls.
I may take the bull by the horns on this one, experiment and present it to my building administrators to see if they're interested. I'll keep you posted.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Thing 17 Reflection - Slideshare
Music Technology & Innovation
Presented at the 'Air & Amplified Music Conference', Hobart, Tasmania on 15 March 2008. The presentation was designed to take a snapshot of the way in which digital promotion and distribution is currently affecting the music industry, what it means for existing models and practices, and to examine ways in which musicians particularly can take greater control of their affairs in the new landscape.
SlideShare Link
This is a Slideshare presentation on Music Technology. I embedded this into this reflection because it talks about many of the ideas and uses of Web 2.0 that we're learning about in 23 Things. Slideshare allows everyone around the world to share ideas and research knowledge, bringing us closer together. It's very easy to use and embedding this presentation into the blog spot is rather easy to do. A very useful tool, IMO.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Thing 16 Reflection
Geesh, did I really spend three hours working on this one? Where did the time go?
I explored the 30 Boxes widget, the online calendar. It's very easy to use, easy to link to your Flickr account as well as your blogs and wikispaces. You'll see that I've added a small badge in the left hand column of the blog. I also added the embedded calendar into a page on my wikispace.
This is another great gadget that will help sharing information with students, their families and the community. I just hope I can keep all of these accounts and names clear. I have not yet discovered how to separate business info from personal info that I want to keep on the calendar. I'll probably have to create a separate calendar for home and one for school.
I hope to explore other tools and widgets soon.
I explored the 30 Boxes widget, the online calendar. It's very easy to use, easy to link to your Flickr account as well as your blogs and wikispaces. You'll see that I've added a small badge in the left hand column of the blog. I also added the embedded calendar into a page on my wikispace.
This is another great gadget that will help sharing information with students, their families and the community. I just hope I can keep all of these accounts and names clear. I have not yet discovered how to separate business info from personal info that I want to keep on the calendar. I'll probably have to create a separate calendar for home and one for school.
I hope to explore other tools and widgets soon.
Off-Topic
Here's a neat picture that I thought I'd put out here today, just because it's a beautiful day.
I hope you enjoy it!
Thing 15 Reflection
I've explored programs similar to Google Docs before, but with limited success. This site seems to work much better and is easier to manage than the others. I uploaded my resume, but did not share it. I may consider that in the future....
This program would be very helpful for compiling information for newsletters, lists, etc. Managing the lists of students/parents/staff for sharing would be a bit time consuming at first but could be quite manageable after that.
Google Docs Link
This link will take you there!
This program would be very helpful for compiling information for newsletters, lists, etc. Managing the lists of students/parents/staff for sharing would be a bit time consuming at first but could be quite manageable after that.
Google Docs Link
This link will take you there!
Monday, May 5, 2008
Thing 14 Reflection
Podcasting continues to look very appealing, and I can see uses in the music department. Since I teach performance classes (choirs, etc.) I could see using podcasts to make rehearsal tools available to the kids, as well as recordings of concerts, etc.
I can also see other applications that would be very helpful for other subject areas and I really believe "the sky's the limit" in how helpful it could be.
Downfalls? If my classes were not performance based I could see usage quite regularly. If I had a music technology, or composition class we could use podcasting to produce student works (both musical and non-musical). I could envision the class preparing and working with all areas of the school district in creating podcasts for grades K-12, and even for administrative purposes. A program of this scale would require a bigger investment of time and money, both of which are in short supply in our district and my schedule. Ideally the district would have someone on staff to work in this area, perhaps our IT person (who is also short on time). Getting the needed upgrades to our system would require another investment.
I will probably purchase a microphone and download the audacity program and play around with the podcasts during summer break and see what I can do from home and/or with the pcs that we have at school.
I can also see other applications that would be very helpful for other subject areas and I really believe "the sky's the limit" in how helpful it could be.
Downfalls? If my classes were not performance based I could see usage quite regularly. If I had a music technology, or composition class we could use podcasting to produce student works (both musical and non-musical). I could envision the class preparing and working with all areas of the school district in creating podcasts for grades K-12, and even for administrative purposes. A program of this scale would require a bigger investment of time and money, both of which are in short supply in our district and my schedule. Ideally the district would have someone on staff to work in this area, perhaps our IT person (who is also short on time). Getting the needed upgrades to our system would require another investment.
I will probably purchase a microphone and download the audacity program and play around with the podcasts during summer break and see what I can do from home and/or with the pcs that we have at school.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Thing 13 Reflection
Gosh, there are tons of podcasts out there in cyberspace...which ones to subscribe to or not? This will be task for summer break, for sure.
I decided to use my bloglines account to subscribe to the podcast "MusicTech for ME"; the ME stands for Music Education. I think it will just be easier to keep track of everything on one account instead to sorting through several accounts/programs for my feeds. (Gee, I'm sounding so techno-geeky!) I'll keep exploring through several feeds and see if there are others that pique my interest. You can look for them in my "Links" section of the blog.
I decided to use my bloglines account to subscribe to the podcast "MusicTech for ME"; the ME stands for Music Education. I think it will just be easier to keep track of everything on one account instead to sorting through several accounts/programs for my feeds. (Gee, I'm sounding so techno-geeky!) I'll keep exploring through several feeds and see if there are others that pique my interest. You can look for them in my "Links" section of the blog.
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Thing 12 Reflection - Podcasts
I really find podcasts very interesting. I learned some new things about them in this segment, such as: you don't need an iPod to listen to them, and the different types of casts available.
I believe I would find the professional development podcasts very useful, as well as some general ones that could also be very entertaining. If I have podcasts set up for my classes I'm sure those would rank high in my list of "favorites" too.
I could see using podcasts in the choir arena by recording rehearsal sections for the kids to listen to, recording songs or entire concerts for sharing with families and friends. The kids could also produce segments on lessons they learn in music theory and the like.
What wasn't shared in this Thing (but I'm sure will be covered on the future ones) is how to create the podcasts, equipment needed, etc. Like always the 23 Things leaders bait us with these gadgets only to move us forward into the next Thing! (It's almost like they're trying to teach us something new all the time....how useful is that!!!)
I believe I would find the professional development podcasts very useful, as well as some general ones that could also be very entertaining. If I have podcasts set up for my classes I'm sure those would rank high in my list of "favorites" too.
I could see using podcasts in the choir arena by recording rehearsal sections for the kids to listen to, recording songs or entire concerts for sharing with families and friends. The kids could also produce segments on lessons they learn in music theory and the like.
What wasn't shared in this Thing (but I'm sure will be covered on the future ones) is how to create the podcasts, equipment needed, etc. Like always the 23 Things leaders bait us with these gadgets only to move us forward into the next Thing! (It's almost like they're trying to teach us something new all the time....how useful is that!!!)
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Thing 11 Reflection
I was right....creating my own wiki was next on the list of things to do. (I are smart, I are a teacher!) BTW, that's a line from a very bad joke, so no comments on the grammar, please!
After viewing some of the wikis out there in cyberspace, I can see that it will take more than a moment or two to create a wiki that is visually appealing as well as useful. I may spend a bit of time on this one.
The benefits can be wonderful: sharing information with students and families. I started a file on our upcoming choir banquet and we'll see how many parents and students will actually get on there and add their names and make reservations. I may add to this post in the future...stay tuned!
Oh...I DID publish a link to the choir wiki page in the left hand column of the blog.
After viewing some of the wikis out there in cyberspace, I can see that it will take more than a moment or two to create a wiki that is visually appealing as well as useful. I may spend a bit of time on this one.
The benefits can be wonderful: sharing information with students and families. I started a file on our upcoming choir banquet and we'll see how many parents and students will actually get on there and add their names and make reservations. I may add to this post in the future...stay tuned!
Oh...I DID publish a link to the choir wiki page in the left hand column of the blog.
Thing 10 Reflection
The wikis that I visited seemed very information and nicely set up, so I presume that it wouldn't be any more difficult in setting up than my blog. The benefits seem endless, and very helpful and informative. The only drawback I can figure is the amount of time it might take to moderate and update a sight, but I believe the benefits would outweigh any downfalls.
I'll probably set one up (or is that Thing 11?), and see how it goes! My students' parents won't know what hit them next fall!!
I'll probably set one up (or is that Thing 11?), and see how it goes! My students' parents won't know what hit them next fall!!
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Thing 9 Reflection
Now this is just warped enough that I would use it, a lot! Online image generators will allow students, staff and myself to personalize photos and images for any type of lesson or project. The kids (and I'm including myself on this one) could spend hours just looking around at all of the possibilities out there.When I was working on this assignment I clicked on the first site and found these magazine covers and could have hunted for hours for just the right photo. I think this
Thing 8 Reflection
The smaller programs for Flickr are quite unique, although nearly impossible to find on the website. Which one's would I use? The Spell with Flickr would be neat to use occasionally, and possible some of the others, but honestly I'm not sure how I would use many of these as it relates to music.
As with the other features and photos, I'd probably use those functions more often, but I'm open to ideas from others.
As with the other features and photos, I'd probably use those functions more often, but I'm open to ideas from others.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Thing 7 Reflection
Wow, moving along nicely here.
Flickr is a fun site, and I was so glad to see it's a part of the Yahoo group so I really didn't have to establish another new account!
Be careful what school photos you upload! The last thing that you want to do is violate someone's privacy, especially by putting someone's child on the internet!
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Thing 6 Reflection
Boy, I've been a busy beaver today...4 things.
The photo sharing sites are very good. I've been a member of Shutterfly for a few months and seem to like it, so far. I'm going to try and use photos from there for this project.
What I have found so far is that you cannot directly download a community picture from Shutterfly, so I must go through a PrintScreen and paste to my PCs Paint program and save it from there. We'll see how this works from here.
I suppose I should go back to the training video and see how they suggest you upload the photos from their photo sharing site. I may return to figure out how to upload directly from the website instead of going through the cutting and pasting process. Perhaps to be continued.....
Okay...so here I am, back once more. The training video shows that Flickr is similar to Shutterfly, except that it uses photos that are more professional than personal, or family photos. On Flickr you can right click on a photo and save, whereas Shutterfly is a Flash program so you cannot save a photo quite so easily. If you do choose to use Print Screen, and paste into a Paint program you must crop and fix the photo so that it is cleaned up of all the excess stuff from the screen. But once done you can choose a variety of file extensions to save the photo (jpg, gif, bitmap, etc.) On Flickr you simply right click the photo and Save As, but you can only choose .gif format or bitmap.
The dog picture above shows lots of wasted white space around the photo, obviously not cleaned up enough when saved. I'm hopeful that the lighthouse picture here will use the space more efficiently.
I've saved the lighthouse photo, twice. When I upload to my blog there is nothing there! Hmmm, the photo does not save.
Thing 5 Reflection
Wow, I'm moving along well. The nice thing is that by following your instructions everything is working the way it's supposed to. The negative thing is that I need more hours in the day to spend surfing for all of the blogs I want to subscribe to. It is very easy (using bloglines) to mark items read so that I don't waste time going over things that I'm not interested in or have read previously. I'm enjoying myself. (Is this supposed to be this much fun????)
Thing 4 Reflection
Okaaaayyyyyyyy...here we go into some new stuff for me. I think the RSS feeds will definitely be helpful in making sure that the people who subscribe to my ed blog will get the info as quickly as possible. Will it also notify me when they respond, mmmm...not sure. I have the blog set up to notify me when someone responds, so that will probably be how this whole thing works. We'll see.
The nice thing about how these "Things" are set up is that they build upon the previous Thing, but also pique my curiosity and make me want to move onto the next Thing. Do I dare go on? What if I finish all of the Things and still have 7 weeks to go?????? It's an inigma!
The nice thing about how these "Things" are set up is that they build upon the previous Thing, but also pique my curiosity and make me want to move onto the next Thing. Do I dare go on? What if I finish all of the Things and still have 7 weeks to go?????? It's an inigma!
Thing 3 Reflection
There are several ways that I believe blogging will be helpful to students: general information sharing, promoting or spotlights are specific students or events, upcoming events, etc. Although these are basic information giving ideas, they are important. As for allowing students to share: there are several times during the school year when students are given an assignment to critique a performance (either their own or someone elses). By allowing the posts to be put on the blogsite will not only allow students to quickly leave their critique but will allow other students to see and comment on the views of the other students.
By allowing students to see the works/words of other students leads into the next reflection question about concerns I have about the process. Students can sometimes be mean, intentionally or unintentionally, and could hurt and inhibit the responses from other students. I have adjusted the settings on this blog to moderate all comments before they are published. This will hopefully eliminate any problems of flaming on the blog. But I do have a concern about student privacy. How do we teachers identify the students submitting legitimate postings without having them divulge first and last names? I am thinking that perhaps using a student's first name and maybe the last four digits of their student ID number might help protect their privacy. I'd be happy to hear any comments on this one!
Other uses would include communication between parents and myself, being able to share information and calendar dates with them, as well as with members of the community. Sharing performance clips is also possible, once I learn how to get my videos from the camera to the computer (hopefully another 23 Things lessons!).
By allowing students to see the works/words of other students leads into the next reflection question about concerns I have about the process. Students can sometimes be mean, intentionally or unintentionally, and could hurt and inhibit the responses from other students. I have adjusted the settings on this blog to moderate all comments before they are published. This will hopefully eliminate any problems of flaming on the blog. But I do have a concern about student privacy. How do we teachers identify the students submitting legitimate postings without having them divulge first and last names? I am thinking that perhaps using a student's first name and maybe the last four digits of their student ID number might help protect their privacy. I'd be happy to hear any comments on this one!
Other uses would include communication between parents and myself, being able to share information and calendar dates with them, as well as with members of the community. Sharing performance clips is also possible, once I learn how to get my videos from the camera to the computer (hopefully another 23 Things lessons!).
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Thing 2 Reflection
As I mentioned in my previous Reflection I'd like to find new and exciting ways to connect with my students and their families.
How do I feel about putting myself, and my words into cyberspace where anyone can read them? Well, I am a musician/educator so I guess that anytime I perform I'm putting myself and my words out into the universe. The difference here is that in cyberspace these words are going to hang around a lot longer than they would in a concert venue.
The benefits that I can see are that I can preview and edit my comments and questions before I push the "Publish Post" button. Even afterwards I can edit them and elaborate on them and hopefully alleviate any questions or confusion.
On the negative side people don't always interpret the written word with the inflection and tone that the spoken word carries. To me I find it a challenge to choose words carefully, that truly express the "inner" me...sometimes serious, and caring, but at other times witty and sarcastic. Being a teacher of both middle school and high school choir students I've learned how to mold by humor and sarcasm to fit the age, although I am still tempted to purchase a flashing "SARCASM" sign to where over my head. I hope we'll have a "Thing" on eBay shopping...I just know there will be one of those signs for sale there!
How do I feel about putting myself, and my words into cyberspace where anyone can read them? Well, I am a musician/educator so I guess that anytime I perform I'm putting myself and my words out into the universe. The difference here is that in cyberspace these words are going to hang around a lot longer than they would in a concert venue.
The benefits that I can see are that I can preview and edit my comments and questions before I push the "Publish Post" button. Even afterwards I can edit them and elaborate on them and hopefully alleviate any questions or confusion.
On the negative side people don't always interpret the written word with the inflection and tone that the spoken word carries. To me I find it a challenge to choose words carefully, that truly express the "inner" me...sometimes serious, and caring, but at other times witty and sarcastic. Being a teacher of both middle school and high school choir students I've learned how to mold by humor and sarcasm to fit the age, although I am still tempted to purchase a flashing "SARCASM" sign to where over my head. I hope we'll have a "Thing" on eBay shopping...I just know there will be one of those signs for sale there!
Thing 1 Reflection
Educators who have been in the field for more than 5-10 sorely need to get caught up to where the newer teachers are and our student bodies. I *used* to consider myself literate and up-to-date with many of the latest gizmos for technology, but no longer.
As I see it there are two major challenges:
1) Getting the teachers caught up to where the students are, and using the technology in the classroom; and
2) Dealing with school districts who have not been able to keep up with the latest technologies, for whatever reason
After watching the video last night I mentioned the suggested lesson about text messaging and getting 3 responses in 10 minutes. There wasn't one student who seemed to think that it would difficult, and most commented that they wouldn't need all of the 10 minutes. There were several who knew that could get the bonus points but getting a response from someone in a foreign country. Our school district does not allow the possession of phones in the classroom let alone using them for lessons. That will take a major shift in paradigms for education.
Hopefully throughout this process I will find ways to achieve and implement some new technology into the classroom, and perhaps find sources for funding of these lessons.
As I see it there are two major challenges:
1) Getting the teachers caught up to where the students are, and using the technology in the classroom; and
2) Dealing with school districts who have not been able to keep up with the latest technologies, for whatever reason
After watching the video last night I mentioned the suggested lesson about text messaging and getting 3 responses in 10 minutes. There wasn't one student who seemed to think that it would difficult, and most commented that they wouldn't need all of the 10 minutes. There were several who knew that could get the bonus points but getting a response from someone in a foreign country. Our school district does not allow the possession of phones in the classroom let alone using them for lessons. That will take a major shift in paradigms for education.
Hopefully throughout this process I will find ways to achieve and implement some new technology into the classroom, and perhaps find sources for funding of these lessons.
My beginnings with 23 Things
Well, this is my blog for my 23 Things Project. I missed the first week's assignments so I'm playing a bit of catch up, but I'll be back on track in no time. I currently have two more blogs that I use occasionally. One is for my family, and the other is for my high school madrigal chorale. I'll post more info on those blogs and links to them soon. For now, I look forward to learning new things about using technology for my students.
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