Philadelphia School District Closing 40 Schools in June!

What is happening to our school districts?

Philadelphia School District is scheduled to shut down 37 more schools in June 2013. I say additional because at the beginning of the school year, the district announced that they were closing 24 schools. In addition, The Archdiocese Catholic Schools of Philadelphia have closed 45 elementary schools and four high schools.

Not in a million years did I imagine that Education would be affected by the economic downturn of our country. What happens to the teachers, counselors, administrators...and most importantly the students?? Do you know that the average public school classroom has approximately 30 students? Yes, you've read correctly, 30! Whose to blame here? This is just insane.

Go to these links to read more information regarding this issue:
http://www.philly.com/philly/education/183276341.html
http://www.philly.com/philly/education/Catholic_schools_closings_2012.html

Cheerios: Inspire a Life Long Love of Reading

This image is currently on the back of the Cheerios cereal box. Three reasons why I love everything about this image:

1. (And most important) There's a book, NOT A TOY, in every box of cereal!

2. The initiative General Mills took in re-starting the push for 'reading for pleasure'.

3. General Mills has donated $3.8 million to First Books, an organization that provides books to kids.

BONUS: The books are written in both English and Spanish

Awesome!

NEA Today: More Info on Student Anxiety

NEA Today Magazine recently featured an article that gave insight to student anxiety and how to combat it. More specifically the article discussed how to help students conquer their anxieties around math, oral presentations, and testing (which we have previously discussed).

Pinpointing the triggers of anxiety is key. Ensure that bullying is not a factor and that home life is stable and healthy. Next, find areas of difficulty...

Small Suggestions:

• Math or any subject of difficulty- Preparation is key and practice makes perfect! Make learning fun by integrating computer math games, board games, and other activities. Celebrate learning and create opportunities for success.
• Oral Presentations- For Students: KNOW YOUR STUFF! Prepare well in advance, make a list of items you need and check them off the night before to ensure you have everything to deliver a successful presentation. Write talking points for the information you want to discuss. Make it fun, have something that everyone can participate in. Practice reading aloud for 15 - 20 minutes per day.
• Test Anxiety- In a previous post we noted that there are several test taking strategies students can use to combat fears. In addition, students can write a positive message on the back of their papers, boost confidence by mastering the material, go see your counselor for a boost of encouragement.