Thursday, January 14, 2010

Prep 4 College

A feel good moment today. Former student Vanessa M. stopped by to say that A&P class prepared her more than any class for her Human Biology and another science class. Hooray! This is good. I often wane between changing the class to be less traditionally structured and keeping it as an intense, fast-paced, lecture course. Not that it can be explained that simply, but essentially it is.

Sunday, January 10, 2010

An Unusual Match Up? Not anymore!

Without realizing it, I have entered an entirely new world this semester. The most beneficial thing accomplished (for both my students and me) was working with our media specialist, Kathy Kaldenberg. She is nothing short of amazing! Not only did she provide ideas and lessons for me, she took the time to give feedback to students on their article reviews. I don't know where she finds the time to manage three buildings, get into classrooms, and help teachers such as myself with developing and implementing specific, special projects. I feel so lucky to have worked with her this semester - perhaps an untraditional match-up - and discovered her vision of the "new" role of media specialists in schools. My only regret is not recognizing this sooner. You see, the signs were all there. She sends links to cool stuff, has the best MC webpages I've come across, and has always been willing to step in and assist with materials or procedures such as accessing the AEA on-line resources. Needless to say, now I know! Kathy is responsible for extending our learning through her expertise with technology, resourcefulness, and willingness to reach out and get into the classroom. I just can't wait for the next projects we get to whip up together.