Category Archives: General

WHY CAN’T THE EXPERTS FIX EDUCATION?

Because they are looking in the wrong place. A recent article written by Ryan Fuller, a former space engineer now teacher, stated that, “Teaching isn’t rocket science. It’s harder. To solve engineering problems, you use your brain. Solving classroom problems … Continue reading

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Why all the testing?

What do you believe (in one sentence) is the #1 reason behind all the testing that is on rise today. Feel free to add any evidence or documentation to support your opinion (not wanting to exasperate, irritate or alienate all … Continue reading

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TEACHER OBSERVATIONS DON’T WORK… BUT WHY?

Teacher observations are but one of two elephants in the teacher’s lounge. The other is student grading, but we can only wrangle one elephant at a time, so let’s pick the biggest and the orneriest. I love teaching, enjoy the … Continue reading

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What do you say to a parent when calling home?

Like most of the daily activities in any profession there is no secret or magic to making the often “dreaded” phone call home, but there is a right way, and a wrong way. Unfortunately, many teachers never get it right … Continue reading

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DO YOU PASS FAILING STUDENTS?

If you do, you will: never have accurate data never be able to set correct baselines for goal setting never be able to use your data to achieve goals or strategize never be able to fully – or correctly – … Continue reading

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What is your ROI for Teacher Observations?

ROI – Return on Investment. In business, the term “return on investment” (ROI) is used to measure the “rate of return” on money invested in a commercial venture that will decide whether or not to continue down that particular road. … Continue reading

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WHY ARE TEACHERS EVALUATED?

I honestly do not know. When I started teaching, the idea of being “evaluated” was a foreign – almost bizarre – concept. As a doctor who had completed my studies and subsequent internship I was deemed “qualified” to treat patients. … Continue reading

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What do we expect from students?

So often the discussion revolves around “teacher expectations,” and that is important. But since it is all about the student, then why aren’t we focusing more on “student” expectations first? Here are a few that should top any list. These … Continue reading

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Electronic Gradebooks – Are there any negatives?

As a doctor in private practice during the 80’s and 90’s, computers were just beginning to make a change in how offices were run. The term “paperless office” was just words as most doctors could never envision how such a … Continue reading

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Why are teachers leaving? Part I

I recently heard the following said by a character in an episode of “Law and Order”: “Why are teachers being pushed out. Is it because they are being micromanaged by the DOE. Is it because they are being given all … Continue reading

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