Check out my new video

This video entitled, "working with at-risk students," is the first of many and only begins to scratch the surface of equity. The achievement gap is typically associated with the dramatic differences in standardized test scores and graduation rates between minority and/or low-income students and white and/or non low-income students. This does not mean that being minority or low-income prevents success, it means that the deck is stacked against you and it is harder to succeed. The gap is caused by numerous variables that are all linked to a lack of equity in our society and schools. I believe we are taking positive steps towards solving this problem, but there is a ton of work left to do. Please take the time to learn more about equity issues and how you can help students in your community. If the video raises questions, then please ask.

Business and Education

Today I was introduced as the 2010 Colorado Teacher of the Year to the state senate and house of representatives. This was a great experience for me, especially since I had never been in the capitol building before (it's beautiful). After this introduction I briefly spoke with some marketing businessmen about education. I shared with these men that I would love to see business more actively involved in our schools. I had two ideas that I would like to see progress throughout the year.

1. We need every business to foster ongoing relationships with schools and their students. This will require human capital and time to build relationships between business employees and students. Tutoring one or more days is very nice and most schools will not turn away this help, but I think we need year long, in-depth, person to person contact between students and business persons. This experience and demonstration of caring means the world to students and motivates them to succeed.

2. Many businesses offer scholarships to juniors and seniors in high school. This is very kind of them but it is too late for many students, particularly students who are classified as "at risk." We need to invest in our students at an earlier age. Offer these students scholarships in the 7th or 8th grade before they have moved onto high school. The scholarship could be offered as a guaranteed source of money for post-secondary education if students complete expected requirements in high school. You set the expectations and if they meet them they are rewarded.

Schools need business and business needs students. Let's work together to foster innovative ideas for increasing high school graduation and college attendance. Please add any thoughts, ideas, or questions.

Wonderful Students

I was back in class today for the first time since last Tuesday. It was great! Throughout the day student after student asked me about my trip, gave me a high five with a big smile on their face, and/or said how much they missed me. I had at least 75 reminders today of why my students are so wonderful and why I enjoy being around them in school. They were each vibrant and joyful and filled with genuine love and respect. You can't buy these kinds of relationships, you have to work at them. I am like most teachers in that I work very hard to support and strengthen students all while building incredible positive relationships. This work was reflected throughout the day with every smile, hug, and inquisitive question. I care about my students and they in turn care about me. This is what being a teacher is all about.

2010 Teacher of the Year Conference - Dallas

Hi Everyone,

I spent the last week in Dallas as Colorado's 2010 Teacher of the Year. I was able to meet and interact with amazing teachers from all over the country. These fabulous teachers re-energized and reaffirmed my love of teaching and my need to positively engage each and every one of my students. I also learned how to use my new SMART board, engage in policy discussion, and work to ensure that all of our teachers and students are supported across the state. It was an exciting week and great opportunity to learn. I look forward to the remainder of this year and working to positively promote teaching, stress the need for equity in our schools, and encourage businesses to invest in our students. I hope everyone has a wonderful week.