DIGITAL ANTHOLOGY

We're the Jefferson Trojans!! (school video) #edchat

2012-02-06T06:31:00.001-08:00

"Wimpy Kid" author says elementary-school experience inspired him

2011-11-19T06:34:00.001-08:00

Jeff Kinney, author of the "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" book series, returned to his Maryland elementary school this week and said his experience there more than 30 years ago helped inspire his writing. During the appearance, in honor of American Education Week, Kinney told students they should overcome setbacks and work to achieve their goals. "Always listen to your teachers, and do your best always," he said. The Gazette (Gaithersburg, Md.)

History of Thanksgiving

2011-11-19T05:35:00.001-08:00

Gobble, gobble!! Are you ready for the holidays? What does it mean to you? Although Thanksgiving celebrations dated back to the first European settlements in America, it was not until the 1860s that Abraham Lincoln declared the last Thursday of November to be a national holiday. Here's a good rendition of the history of Thanksgiving from the History Channel:

Why Facebook in Education

2011-11-19T04:16:00.001-08:00

I created this FB page yesterday, I will utilize my Facebook Professional Page for enhancing communication with my colleagues and students, and for engaging and collaborating with them in a manner that might not be entirely possible in traditional education settings. Hope you'll LIKE it!

We're on Facebook!

Facebook benefit your class? Here are 50 ways.

1.Facebook is fun: Almost every student is familiar with Facebook, and most are excited to be able to use the site for collaborative learning.

2.It’s free: Schools pay thousands of dollars for collaboration, digital storage, and communication systems, but Facebook does all of these things — for free.

3.Students are simply more connected: Many teachers are familiar with Blackboard and other classroom community systems, but students typically only check in when necessary, while students are often checking Facebook multiple times per day.

4.Calendars and events are easy to share: Remind students of important dates and events right where they hang out — on Facebook.

5.Students will learn 21st century skills: A study from the University of Minnesota discovered that social networking sites like Facebook help students practice the skills they need to be successful in the 21st century.

6.Students want to share beyond the classroom: Facebook and other social media tools open up the possibility for students to share what they’ve learned not just with their fellow students, but with the world.

7.Online resources are even more convenient: Posting links on your classroom wall makes it easy for students to read them, and share interesting finds as well.8.Students can use Facebook productively: Most students use Facebook to procrastinate or catch up with friends, but using it in the classroom will help them see the tool in a different light.

9.Absent students stay in the loop: Students who can’t make it to class can stay updated using the classroom Facebook group.

10.School clubs have a simple forum: Students in extracurricular activities can use Facebook to stay in touch and keep everyone updated.

11.You can schedule daily learning activities: Sign up your classroom Facebook group for a word of the day, or history lesson of the day to utilize a learning point that can be enjoyed together and referenced later.

12.Facebook encourages collaboration rather than cliques: Everyone can speak up and work together on Facebook, where students may be held back socially in the classroom.

13.There’s an opportunity to discuss appropriate use: Set students up for success in social media by discussing appropriate ways to use it.

14.Facebook creates a social bond: Teachers and students can benefit from the social bond created by interaction on Facebook.

15.Students can get access to extra assignments: Instructors can post extra credit assignments-or just fun activities students can pick up.

16.Review material is easily organized: By tagging important items, you can easily collect links, photos, notes, and other resources that are essential for pre-exam review, which is useful for instructors as well as students.

17.It’s great for professional development: Students aren’t the only ones who can benefit from using Facebook. Teachers can use it for professional development, too.

18.Students can listen more actively: Students may passively listen to lectures, but interactively using Facebook will result in active learning.

19.Parents can be more involved: Share lunch menus, important reminders, activities, events, closings, and special notes via a Facebook Page for your classroom.

20.Class resources are available anywhere: Students can read notes and assignments anywhere they can find the Internet when they’re posted on Facebook.

21.You can reach students on to go: Want to remind your chronically late students to get to class on time today? Students can receive Facebook updates by text, allowing you to get in contact before they’re late for your lecture.

22.Students can learn about social media in a safe environment: By using Facebook in the classroom, you can teach students about the safe use of social media.

23.You’ll save paper: Permission slips and flyers that used to be sent home on paper and eaten by the dog can bow be uploaded in Facebook groups for parents to use instead.

24.Students can conduct research: Whether it’s for asking a far-flung family member about genealogy or taking an informal poll, students can use their Facebook friends to gather information.

25.Facebook is great for reminders: Even if you’re mentioning important dates and assignments elsewhere, students can be helped with reminders that pop up right in their Facebook feed.

26.Students can share at-home progress: Want to know how student science projects are coming along? Ask for photos of their works in progress, posted on your classroom Facebook wall.

27.Social media becomes less of a distraction: Some teachers have found that using Facebook and other social media sites for education means that students are less tempted to use them inappropriately during class time.

28.Shy students can shine: Students who might otherwise not speak up can contribute on Facebook where they may be more comfortable.

29.You can share resources with colleagues: Your school teaching group or a collection of 4th grade teachers in your district can get together can share resources for teaching, saving time and enriching the classroom experience for students.

30.Kids and parents can talk about activities: When parents are following along with class postings, they’ll never have to wonder what happened at school-and they can build upon what was discussed.

31.Media can be disseminated with ease: Teachers, students, and parents can post pictures, video, and questions, sharing a dialog and resources on Facebook.

32.Group projects can be executed on Facebook: Students can form groups for class projects, sharing assignments, information, and bringing it all together with trackable involvement.

33.Show and tell: Students may not be able to bring their zoo-worthy python into the classroom, but photos and videos can be shared on Facebook.

34.Debates can be taken online: Extend classroom discussions onto Facebook, where students can spend more time in active learning and debate.

35.Students are more likely to interact with faculty: available to students-and making it easier to talk to them.

36.Outsiders can offer their input: Teachers can easily ask experts to chime in on Facebook pages, sparking a new level of discussion and involvement.

37.Students can learn the importance of creating content: Instead of simply consuming content, students can create, posting discussions, resources, and more.

38.Faculty can learn names and faces: With constant updates and interaction, faculty can use Facebook to better associate names and faces in the classroom.

39.Students can interact with others around the world: Many classrooms use Facebook for foreign language learning, partnering up with students who speak different languages.

40.Facebook can help new students settle in: Whether it’s grade school or college, Facebook is a great tool for helping students get integrated into the social and academic life of a new school.

41.You can poll students on Facebook: Ask questions of your class on Facebook and get easy answers using polling tools on the site.

42.You can get instant feedback: Find out quickly and easily what students think of an assignment or activity idea.

43.Students can stay connected anywhere: Even if they can’t make it to class or check Facebook on their home computer, students can use Facebook on their mobile devices to stay updated at all times.

44.Instructors can better understand the interests of students: When students make their profile details available, instructors can learn more about a student’s major, interests, and background, allowing them to suggest information and topics they’d be interested in.

45.Facebook is full of learning apps: You can find tons of apps for classroom learning, including mathematical formulas, slideshow applications, class notes, and more.

46.Relationships can continue after the school year: Students can ask for recommendation letters, advice for other classes, and more because of Facebook’s informal communication.

47.Students can become established on Facebook: Using Facebook in the classroom will allow students to start seeing it as a professional tool, and allow them to build a presence on the site.

48.Facebook provides an opportunity for collaborative learning: Bringing the social element of Facebook into collaborative learning helps to encourage the practice and improve student engagement.

49.Students can learn about academic and professional networking opportunities: By using Facebook, students will be able to discover the opportunities for career focused networking that are available.

50.Faster feedback: Facebook allows instructors to host extended virtual office hours, with postings and responses available around the clock

Reading Intervention Lesson: JW U4 D5

2011-11-16T17:36:00.001-08:00

Jw day 5 (unit 4)

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Reading Intervention Lesson: JW U4 D4

2011-11-16T17:34:00.001-08:00

Jw day 4 (unit 4)

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Reading Intervention Lesson: JW U4 D3

2011-11-16T17:33:00.003-08:00

Jw day 3 (unit 4)

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Reading Intervention Lesson: JW U4 D2

2011-11-16T17:33:00.001-08:00

Jw day 2 (unit 4)

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Reading Intervention Lesson: JW U4 D1

2011-11-16T17:31:00.001-08:00

Jw day 1 (unit 4)

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Model UN at JA

2011-11-13T19:50:00.001-08:00

The simulation of the United Nations last Thursday (November 10, 2010) was a success.

In Model UN, students step into the shoes of ambassadors from UN member states to debate current issues on the organization's agenda. Students make speeches, prepare draft resolutions, negotiate with allies and adversaries, resolve conflicts, and navigate the conference rules of procedure - all in the interest of mobilizing "international cooperation" to resolve problems that affect countries all over the world.

Before playing out their ambassadorial roles in a Model UN simulation, students research the issue that their committee will address. Model UN participants learn how the international community acts on its concerns about topics including peace and security, human rights, the environment, food and hunger, economic development and globalization. Model UN delegates also look closely at the needs, goals and foreign policies of the countries they will represent at the event. The insights they gain from their exploration of history, geography, culture, economics and science contribute to the authenticity of the simulation when the role playing gets under way. The delegates' in-depth knowledge of their countries guarantees a lively and memorable experience.

The kids were really engaged! I would like to take 15 of them to the Model UN Conference on Dec. 14-15. I have the two volunteers from global classrooms coming again on the Friday of the first week in December to prepare them for the conference.

Thanks,
Gabrielle Westbrook

Reading Intervention Lesson D10 U2

2011-10-23T13:27:00.001-07:00

Just Words day 10 (unit 2)

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Reading Intervention Lesson JW D9 U2

2011-10-23T13:26:00.001-07:00

Just Words day 9 (unit 2)

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Reading Intervention Lesson JW D8 U2

2011-10-23T13:23:00.001-07:00

Just Words day 8 (unit 2)

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Reading Intervention Lesson JW D7 U2

2011-10-23T13:19:00.001-07:00

Just Words day 7 (unit 2)

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Reading Intervention Lesson JW D6 U2

2011-10-23T13:17:00.001-07:00

Just Words day 6 (unit 2)

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FieldTrip at the MLK Memorial

2011-10-15T10:02:00.001-07:00

Last August 27, 2011, as part of their Geography lesson, our Jefferson Academy Trojans went to a fieldtrip to the beautiful and historic Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial (cheers to Ms. Westbrook & Ms. Tatum!!). They learned to follow a map walking from our school to the new MLK memorial at 1964 Independence Ave, SW, Washington, DC 20024. The street number is a reference to the Civil Right’s Act of 1964, a milestone which Dr. King played an integral role in achieving.

The site creates a visual "line of leadership" from the Lincoln Memorial, which honors the President who protected the United States from internal strife, and where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous "I Have a Dream" speech; to the Jefferson Memorial, which honors the President who helped create the United States as the author of the Declaration of Independence.

Dr. King's Memorial is situated on a four-acre plot on the northwest corner of the Tidal Basin adjacent to the Roosevelt Memorial. The Tidal Basin is a man made body of water to the south of the National Mall which acts as an overflow catch basin when the Potomac River swells, helping to prevent extensive flooding of the Mall.

The site is situated within the precinct of Washington, DC’s famous cherry blossom trees, a gift from Japan as a sign of peace. Before the King Memorial was built, millions of visitors would come to Washington, DC each spring to witness the beauty of the two week blooming period. During this short timeframe, the Tidal Basin is surrounded by delicate pink and white blossoms on hundreds of trees, a vision that enhances the experience of the Nation’s Capital, and announces the arrival of spring each year to its residents.

Today, October 16, tens of thousands of visitors from around the world will once again come to the District to participate in the dedication ceremony of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.

Information from: MLKmemorial.org

Reading Intervention Lesson JW D5 U1

2011-09-23T10:29:00.000-07:00

JW day 5

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Raeding Intervention Lesson JW D4 U1

2011-09-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

Just Words day 4

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Reading Intervention Lesson JW D3 U1

2011-09-22T10:21:00.000-07:00

Just Words day 3

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Just Words, Alphabetical Writing Systems, Day 2 (Unit 1)

2011-09-21T10:42:00.000-07:00

Just Words, Alphabetical Writing Systems, Day 2 (Unit 1)

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Just Words Lesson, History of Written English, Day 1 (Unit 1)

2011-09-20T10:32:00.000-07:00

Just Words history of written english 9.19.11

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Home-School Partnership as an Instructional Strategy

2011-09-11T13:40:00.000-07:00

Dear Parents,

I want to invite you to a wonderful opportunity to communicate, interact and create an action plan for increased student learning and achievement here in my class at Jefferson Academy this school year. I want you to become part of the solution in meeting high achievement standards for your child and help move him towards achieving his goals and maximizing his potential. How do we do this? It's a lot of work but we can do more great things when we all work together!! Please view this video clip of a successful home-school partnership towards student achievement to give you an idea:

9.11 ONE CITY, ONE WORLD: RESOURCES FOR PEACE, TOLERANCE, SERVICE, AND REMEMBRANCE

2011-09-11T06:16:00.000-07:00

A U.S. flag flies over Ground Zero before the start of ceremonies marking the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center, in New York September 11, 2011. REUTERS/ Gary Hershorn (UNITED STATES - Tags: ANNIVERSARY DISASTER)

From the Educator Portal: Washington, DC is recognizing the 10th anniversary of the September 11th tragedy this upcoming weekend. Friday, September 9th is a Day of Peace, Tolerance, Service and Remembrance across the city. Please find the attached guidance for the day, including selected lessons for teaching peace and tolerance in DCPS classrooms.

“Essential Questions for Teaching September 11”
This blog entry was written by an education consultant and participant on a panel discussion for the National Museum of American History (NMAH) online conference for K-12 educators about September 11.
http://blog.americanhistory.si.edu/osaycanyousee/2011/08/essential-questions-for-teaching-september-11.html

“Education Goals and Key Questions”
Short list of goals and key questions for teaching and leading discussions about September 11^th in the classroom. Questions include: “How do we deal with communities of hate?” “How can democratic societies protect civil liberties and freedoms in the face of increased insecurity?”
http://www.911memorial.org/education-goals-and-key-questions

“Bringing 9/11 in the Classroom—Useful Lessons”
The materials suggested on this page address many religious and cultural issues. Addressing anti-Muslim bias and teaching accurately about Islam should be clear priorities for U.S. teachers. Themes include: Comparative Religion, Cultural Understanding, and Developing Authentic Identities.
http://www.tolerance.org/blog/bringing-911-classroom-useful-lessons

Back-To-School Night Invitation

2011-09-06T14:25:00.000-07:00

Dear Parents,

Back to School Night is a one time event which happens the first week of school and is an invitation to our parents to come to school to meet their children’s teachers. This is an opportunity to learn about our school’s and teachers’ expectations about homework, grades, standards, and behavior.

You will learn first-hand the procedures your child is expected to follow, as well as what you can expect your child to be doing and learning throughout the year. As a parent, you are a key instrument in your child’s success, and by showing your support when you attend Back to School Night, you are demonstrating to your child the value you place on education.

We are hoping to personally meet you on September 15, 2011 (Thursday) for our Back-To-School Night here at Jefferson Academy. See you!

Sincerely,

The SPED Team

Parent Volunteers Needed at Jefferson Academy!!

2011-09-05T21:58:00.000-07:00

Dear Parents,

There are huge benefits for all involved when you donate your time to your child's school and education. "When your child sees you alongside their teacher working as a team, it creates positive rapport and opens communication channels for everybody. The other compelling factor is that school budget cuts mean our class sizes are suddenly larger, and our teachers have fewer (if any) assistants. Any help as parent volunteers makes a big impact."

Thank you to the parent of one of my wonderful former students for volunteering to help us at Jefferson Academy this school year!! Ethel is now in 12th grade at Wilson Senior HS, and is determined to pursue college education. It is our great relationship that we forged together when she was my student in 6th grade that made them keep in touch with me. See Ms. Burnette's letter about me below...

To whom it may concern,

As the parent of Ethel B., I have had the priviledge to observe [Ms. Angala's] special education class for the last two years now.

Ethel is in her final year at Jefferson Middle School taking Reading and Math classes with Ms. Angala. She has endured classic ADHD-NOS (a nervous system disorder), ADD, socialization, and learning difficulties since birth. Ethel's weaknesses is being described as fragile. Ethel attends out-patient therapy, OT, and ADHD Clinic at [a private hospital]. Ethel's behavior mannerisms, coping skills, andf socialization skills are right on tasks because of the hardwork of all the Multi-Disciplinary Team members, including Ms. Angala as her special education teacher.

Ms. Angala is very consistent with communicating with me. She calls me not just when there are concerns with Ethel, but she also tells me about her achievements in class. She sends me emails, invitations to attend class with Ethel, and she meets with me often to give information about what's best for Ethel's future. The class website is very helpful for us to keep in track with class works when she is absent.

Ms. Angala's teaching strategies demonstrated in her class, and the way she disciplines her students, and the personal attention she is giving her students are working to benefit her students so they can reach their full potential. Ethel was encouraged by Ms. Angala to read a lot. She comes home from school with homework and wanting to read, she is excited about going to the library checking out on books, etc. She is also eager to go to Karate classes, Sweep Cadets, and possibly attend Duke Ellington or a Vocational School. This is all because Ms. Angala is greatly appreciated by my daughter and she's inspired by her to reach her highest potential.

After being in the class observing as a parent for these two years, I gained a great appreciation for this teacher, realizing that these special needs children need an innovative teacher like Ms. Angala. One abreast and focused with the technology needed to keep them focused and attentive, by commending them constantly giving them the praise they deserve when they have done well making them feel they have made their accomplished tasks properly.

I personally feel that Ms. Angala is responding to Ethel's needs adequately. Ethel is about to graduate and move on to the 9th grade. She is determined and focused to do her best in her endeavours; she is highly motivated to succeed. She promised to check in with Ms. Angala and keep in touch with her after she graduates regarding her progress.

I am a satisfied and confident mother, ready to move on. My thanks to Ms. Angala for all her dedication and hardwork.

Sincerely,

[signed]
Ms. Donna B.
May 22, 2008