Streamlined Education

Since I have been in multiple districts I believe I have discovered something profound. This is the first district that after I was hired was sent a day by day plan of what is taught in each subject. When I arrived at the school I was shown where all the materials are - huh? You mean I do not have to create my own curriculum? Which I have done in 2 other districts, all together making 8-9 different curriculums from scratch. Insane? I agree. I have come to believe that EVERY subject should have a day by day plan created, that has associated standards and can be repeated every semester/year. That being said, once it is set up then the educator can update a unit each semester - which is much more manageable then an entire curriculum. SO, when new teachers come in they are not overwhelmed with creating a curriculum or what has been done in the past - all they have to do is get through their first year in a new district. Aside from teaching a new teacher has to worry about so many other administrative things let along just learning people's names and understanding the culture.

Now, there are teachers out there that would think I am insane and others that would agree. I have experienced both sides and since I am working with a standard curriculum I am able to contact parents, do more differentiated learning, deal with discipline issues better and the list goes on.

NewJob: The Faculty Lounge

I have to say that this is the first district I have been in that the faculty lounge actually is a de-stressor. I walk out of there feeling like I just sat down with my friends and "kicked it" for a little bit. I am thoroughly enjoying it, too bad I will be leaving at the end of the school year because I am now moving. It is a good move, but I actually think this district would have asked me back.

Snow GO AWAY

Ok, I am in WI and I am REALLY sick of the snow!! It is the second day of Spring and we have 10-14" out there! Seriously?

Full Circle

Ok, so it has been awhile and lot is going on. We have completely fixed up the house and it looks great! On the inside... and we have it on the market to sell so we can move back to IL. We are looking to purchase in downtown Tinley Park this year sometime. We are not in a huge hurry to sell the house, all though it would be nice.

So this is what July looks like
July 11 - final presentation for Masters
July 12 - My brother gets married in IL
July 19 - Jimmy Buffet at Alpine, yes we got tickets by my parents did not :(
July24-27 - Morgan (BB) gets married in Door County

YIKES - tons of fun though!