Barbara Dixon Blog

eduGrowth

2012-01-05T23:48:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I had the opportunity to spend a few hours with an amazing group of teachers. We spent time discussing the new Common Core Georgia Performance Standards (CCGPS) and their implications on education. The discussion was interesting and very positive. I am excited about watching this school change from GPS to CCGPS. As an educational consultant and CEO of eduGrowth, I am available for professional learning presentations on a variety of topics.

Welcome 2012

2011-12-31T20:17:00.001-05:00

2012 awaits with promise, hope and excitement. Changes in education policy will dictate the education provided to students and the amount of contentment educators will have with their ever changing job descriptions. How will Race to the Top change the prospective of parents, students, and educators? The new Common Core curriculum looks to provide a more cohesive education for students moving from state to state during their K-12 education. More to come in the next few days.

New Beginnings

2011-12-19T21:08:00.002-05:00

When I left North Georgia College and State University in May 2011, I knew that my life would take a turn. What I didn't realize was what the turn would be. I have worked as an educator for several years and haven't had a lot of time for myself. Well, that is until now! I have had so much fun renewing my emotional state, my physical state, my mental state, and most importantly connecting with friends. In the coming days, I will begin posting about some of the changes that have taken effect in my life. I hope you will tune in to the fun!

Gwinnett County will be hiring -

2011-06-20T09:57:00.000-04:00

Updated: 1:47 PM Jun 19, 2011
Schools need 530 teachers
District has already filled 359 positions
SUWANEE — Gwinnett County Public Schools will need to hire about 530 teachers for the upcoming school year, the chief human resources officer told the Gwinnett County Board of Education this week.
Posted: 7:33 PM Jun 18, 2011
Reporter: By Heather Darenberg, Staff Writer
Email Address: heather.darenberg@gwinnettdailypost.com

Job at French Consulate in Atlanta

2011-06-13T13:22:00.001-04:00

Hello,

The Consulate General of France in Atlanta has a job opening: we are looking for an Assistant to the cultural and press services. This is a full-time job, beginning as soon as July, 15th 2011. We need someone that is fluent in both English and French.

Please find attached the job offer, with all the details. Feel free to forward this advertisement to your students who recently graduated, or anyone that you think could be interested.

Thanks,
Clémentine
______________________________

Deputy Cultural Attaché
Linguistic and educational cooperation

Consulate general of France
Lenox Building / Suite 500
3399 Peachtree Road NE
Atlanta - Georgia 30326

Tel: 404 495 16 86
Fax: 404 495 16 61
www.consulfrance-atlanta.org

Math Tutoring in May

2011-05-03T14:23:00.000-04:00

Ridgeview Charter Middle School is seeking assistance with math remediation for students during the month of May. Details are as follows:

Dates: May 5th through May 20th
Time: (2 hours a day) 11:00 – 1:00
Rate: $28.00 per day

Interested students should send an email with their resume to:

Ms. Angelo Umoh
Assistant Principal
Ridgeview Charter School
404-843-7710
umoh@fultonschools.org

Language Job

2011-04-15T11:44:00.000-04:00

Cherokee County is looking for a teacher who is certified in both Latin and English. If you are interested in the position, or know someone for whom this might be a fit, please feel free to contact Leslie Pourreau at:
leslie.pourreau@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Spanish Opening for 2011-2012

2011-04-11T09:46:00.001-04:00

Whitewater High School in Fayetteville, Georgia currently has a Spanish teacher position open for the 2011-2012 school year. Applicants should have the ability and willingness to:
1)Teach multiple levels of Spanish
2)Participate in and recruit students for state and national competitions: FLAG Spoken Language Contest, Clemson Declamation Contest, National Spanish Exam, Composition Contest, etc.
3)Sponsor Spanish Club
4)Chaperone weekend fieldtrips such as the Clemson Declamation Contest and the Spanish Immersion Weekend
5)Plan and teach thematic units based on the state GPS
6)Work collaboratively with other language teachers

If you are interested in applying, please visit www.fcboe.org to fill out an online application. You will find a more detailed job description with the job posting on the county website. You will also need to mail a letter of interest along with your resume to the school (100 Wildcat Way, Fayetteville, GA 30215). If you have questions, you may email the department chair Karen Dean (dean.karen@mail.fcboe.org).

Geography Tool

2011-03-11T11:31:00.002-05:00

Great interactive tool for Geography lessons. Thanks for sharing,Dr. Mann!

http://www.rethinkingschools.org/just_fun/games/mapgame.html

French Jobs in NYC

2011-03-10T13:20:00.000-05:00

Two new French dual language programs opening in New York City in the Fall. The schools are both in Brooklyn: PS 110 (Greenpoint/Williamsburg) and PS133 (Parks Slope/Gowanus). It's good news! Both will start a French-English dual language program (50-50 Model) in September 2011, starting with grade K and adding a new grade each year. Finding great teachers is key to the success of these programs. If you are interested or know of someone who is interested please ask them to forward a letter of application and resume to: Dana Raciunas (PS110) at draciun@schools.nyc.govhttp://fr.mc269.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=draciun@schools.nyc.gov> Heather Foster-Mann (PS133) at hfoster@schools.nyc.gov<http://fr.mc269.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=hfoster@schools.nyc.gov> Other French dual language teachers are also needed at the following schools. PS84, a K-5 elementary school on the UWS is urgently looking for a substitute teacher for its French dual language program for approximately 12 to 14 weeks. The program, most likely, will also be recruiting for a permanent position for the fall. The applicant should be bilingual, bi-literate, NYS certified, NYC licensed. Experience preferred. Please send a CV and cover letter to: Principal Robin Sundick, PS 84, The Lillian Weber School, 32 West 92nd Street, New York, NY 10025 or email AHauschild@schools.nyc.gov<http://fr.mc269.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=AHauschild@schools.nyc.gov>. Bear in mind that all the schools listed below are also actively looking for French teachers. Grades K to 5: PS 58 (Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn) - contact Giselle Gault gmcgee@schools.nyc.gov<http://fr.mc269.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=gmcgee@schools.nyc.gov> Grades K to 5: PS 151 (Astoria-Woodside, Queens) - contact Jason Goldner JGoldne@schools.nyc.gov<http://fr.mc269.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=JGoldne@schools.nyc.gov> Grades K to 5: PS73 (Yankee Stadium, Bronx) - contact Jean Mirvil JMirvil@schools.nyc.gov<http://fr.mc269.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=JMirvil@schools.nyc.gov> Grades K to 5: PS84 (Upper West Side, Manhattan) - contact Robin Sundick rsundic@schools.nyc.gov<http://fr.mc269.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=rsundic@schools.nyc.gov> Grades K to 5: PS770 (Brooklyn) - contact Shimon Waronker SWaronk@schools.nyc.gov<http://fr.mc269.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=SWaronk@schools.nyc.gov> Grades 6 to 8: MS22 (Bronx) - contact Linda Rosenbury LRosenb6@schools.nyc.gov<http://fr.mc269.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=LRosenb6@schools.nyc.gov> Grades K to 5 (Harlem) - contact Katrine Watkins: katrinewatkins@yahoo.fr<http://fr.mc269.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=katrinewatkins@yahoo.fr> <http://fr.mc269.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=katrinewatkins@yahoo.fr> Also, please visit and joinwww.newyorkinfrench.net<http://www.newyorkinfrench.net/> to find more information about these programs, the parents and educators behind them, and the increasingly dynamic French-speaking community in New York. You can also post your job vacancies, find out about New York's teacher certification, and much more.

Positions

2011-03-09T17:32:00.003-05:00

The word is out that the position at Whitewater High School, (100 Wildcat Way, Fayetteville, GA 30215 , phone: 770-460-3935) is open. Here are some descriptors

Good command of the language
Recruit new students
Sponsor of German Club and German Honor Society
Plan, organize, execute and accompany students to Germany with a GAPP exchange
German I, II, III/IV combined at the high school and German I across the street at the Middle School
Statewide/National Competitions: FLAG Spoken Language Contest, Clemson Poetry Declamation Contest, State German Convention, National German Exam, Governor's Honors
Plan Language lab interactive projects

Contacts:

Principal Greg Stillions: stillions.greg@mail.fcboe.org or f.l. department chari dean.karen@mail.fcboe.org

There are also two positions available in a private school for the 2011-2012 year.
The positions are Secondary Mathematics and a Chemistry position. Email me if you are interested.
Barbara Dixon@bdixon@northgeorgia.edu

T3 Regional STEM Conference

2011-03-09T16:25:00.002-05:00

T3 Regional STEM Conference

Hosted by Forsyth County Schools and The Lambert High School

UPDATE, 2/23/2011

FINAL Conference Program Posted for Review-Click Here!

The pdf of the program is searchable. Use the search box at the top of the document.

Check out the GREAT Elementary Math and Science additions! Do a search for Elementary to find all of the sessions.

Due to the crippling snow and ice that hit metro Atlanta GA Jan 11-14, we must alter the original schedule for this conference. March 18th is now a full school day for our school district so no conference events will occur on Friday. We have reworked the plans and we are going to have a Super Saturday Event! All conference events will now occur on Saturday, March 19, 2011

General Schedule:

7:30-8:30: Registration, breakfast and visiting vendors

8:30-12:20: Concurrent sessions

12:20-1:00: Lunch and visiting vendors

1:00-4:50: Concurrent sessions

5:30-7:30: Dinner with guest speaker and great door prizes

The 2011 Texas Instruments T3 (Teachers Teaching with Technology) Regional STEM Conference will be one of the most engaging professional learning events you have attended all year. Meals are included in your registration fee.

Registration is $48 until March 18th and onsite! GREAT prizes will be drawn from the list of names from the first 250 registered attendees. Prizes include: 8Gb ITouch, $100 Target Gift Card, $50 ITunes Gift Card. Sign up now to be eligible for this drawing.

There are discounts for preservice teachers, Forsyth County employees and primary presenters for sessions. Please follow the registration link for the full details.

For the website, please follow this link:

T3 Regional STEM Conference

Are you sick of highly paid teachers?

2011-02-21T22:23:00.000-05:00

by Meredith Menden on Friday, February 18, 2011 at 6:32pm

Are you sick of highly paid teachers?

Teachers' hefty salaries are driving up taxes, and they only work 9 or10 months a year! It's time we put things in perspective and pay them for what they do - babysit! We can get that for less than minimum wage.

That's right. Let's give them $3.00 an hour and only the hours they worked; not any of that silly planning time, or any time they spend before or after school. That would be $19.50 a day (7:45 to 3:00 PM with 45 min. off for lunch and plan-- that equals 6 1/2 hours).

Each parent should pay $19.50 a day for these teachers to baby-sit their children. Now how many students do they teach in a day...maybe 30? So that's $19.50 x 30 = $585.00 a day. However, remember they only work 180 days a year!!! I am not going to pay them for any vacations.

LET'S SEE....

That's $585 X 180= $105,300 per year. (Hold on! My calculator needs new batteries).

What about those special education teachers and the ones with Master's degrees? Well, we could pay them minimum wage ($7.75), and just to be fair, round it off to $8.00 an hour. That would be $8 X 6 1/2 hours X 30 children X 180 days = $280,800 per year.

Wait a minute -- there's something wrong here! There sure is!

The average teacher's salary (nation wide) is $50,000. $50,000/180 days = $277.77/per day/30 students=$9.25/6.5 hours = $1.42 per hour per student--a very inexpensive baby-sitter and they even EDUCATE your kids!) WHAT A DEAL!!!!

Make a teacher smile; repost this to show appreciation for all educators.

Long Term Sub Position in Language Arts

2011-02-17T13:11:00.002-05:00

Please contact me if you are certified in Middle Grades Language Arts and are available to take a long term sub position in a northern metro county.

Job Opening - French

2011-02-17T13:08:00.000-05:00

Conyers Middle School is seeking a French teacher who is also certified to teach another content field (keep in mind, if you are not currently certified to teach another field, you might be able to add a field by passing the GACE in an additional area).

If you know of anyone who might be interested, please ask her/him to contact Principal Nesmith at mnesmith@rockdale.k12.ga.us

French Position at APS

2011-02-16T11:24:00.000-05:00

Atlanta Public Schools has an immediate need for a certified French teacher to fill a long-term substitute position at Washington High School. Please direct all inquiries to Anita Lawrence, World Languages Coordinator in Atlanta Public Schools. Ms. Lawrence's information is listed below.

Anita Lawrence
World Languages Coordinator
Department for Learning Excellence
Atlanta Public Schools
Phone: 404-802-7580
Fax: 404-624-4073
ablawrence@atlanta.k12.ga.us
www.atlantapublicschools.us

Education Career Fair

2011-02-01T12:24:00.002-05:00

Upcoming Career Fairs

School Of Education
TEACHER CAREER FAIR
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
NGCSU Campus
Memorial Hall
ECE/SPED Majors 2:00 – 3:00
MG/Secondary/P-12 Majors 3:00 – 4:00
MAT & Post Bacc Students 4:00 – 5:00
Meet & Greet Human Resource Directors and Principals from many Georgia School Systems.
In addition, please plan to attend our Large Group Forums to receive helpful tips such as correct resume writing, interviewing skills and conducting an effective career search. Times are as follows:
1:00 Mr. Robert Maxson, Fulton County Schools
3:00 Mrs. Kimberly Williams, Gwinnett County Schools
Memorial Hall, Room 208
BRING YOUR RESUME & DRESS TO IMPRESS!
For more information please contact Shelley Shope at srshope@northgeorgia.edu.

PRESENTATION: “Principals” of Interviewing
DATE: Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011
TIME: 1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
LOCATION: Memorial Hall, Room 208
Learn information about the following that may be helpful to you in your job search whether you are planning to begin your career in metro Atlanta or anywhere else:
School system hiring process Interview questions Job search strategies Etc.
Space is limited.

Charter School Job Fair - Georgia Tech GTRI Conference Center
Saturday, March 05, 2011
9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Open to Public
For more information please visit: http://www.gacharters.org/calendar-events/charter-schools-job-fair

GACE College-to-Career Fair
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Cobb Galleria, Atlanta, GA
Click here for more information.

JOB in French!

2011-01-26T11:36:00.001-05:00

Rockdale County is seeking a teacher to fill an immediate French vacancy. Please contact Laura Whiddon, Director of Human Resources for more information (contact information below).

They are looking for a certified French teacher who is knowledgable in the Georgia Performance Standards, engaging with students and faculty, and who recognizes the importance of further developing the French program; offering students opportunites to develop real-world competencies and proficiencies both within and outside the regular classroom.

Summer Travel Opportunities

2011-01-24T10:29:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Jon Valentine for sharing this:

Global Exploration for Educators Organization (GEEO) is a 501c3 non-profit organization that runs professional development travel programs designed for teachers.

GEEO is offering 13 different travel programs for the summer of 2011: India/Nepal, China, Vietnam, Egypt, Turkey/Syria/Jordan/Egypt, Ethiopia, South Africa/Mozambique/Zimbabwe/Botswana, Morocco, Argentina/Uruguay/Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Costa Rica and Guatemala/Belize/Mexico.

Educators have the option to earn graduate school credit (3 credits through Indiana University) and professional development credit while seeing the world. The trips are designed and discounted to be interesting and affordable for teachers. GEEO also advises teachers on how to find funding to subsidize the cost of the trips. GEEO provides teachers educational materials and the structure to help them bring their experiences into the classroom. The trips are open to all nationalities of K-12 and University educators and administrators, as well as retired educators. Educators are also permitted to bring along a non-educator guest.

Detailed information about each trip, including itineraries, costs, travel dates, and more can be found at www.geeo.org. GEEO can also be reached 7 days a week, toll free at 1-877-600-0105 between 9AM-9PM EST. To sign-up for GEEO's listserv, please send an email to listserv@geeo.org with the subject line "subscribe."

Check out the link below -

2011-01-14T11:52:00.002-05:00

5 Common Misspellings

http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/life/5-common-misspellings-that-make-you-appear-uneducated-2438981

Top 12 New Year’s Resolutions for Teachers

2011-01-05T15:04:00.001-05:00

Check out the following website for great
New Year's Resolutions for Teachers

http://www.teachhub.com/news/article/cat/14/item/604

Jobs

2010-12-13T12:28:00.002-05:00

There are a few mathematics positions (middle grades and elementary) open in Fannin County, Georgia. Please apply on Teach Georgia if you are interested.

Extra Credit?

2010-11-30T11:27:00.001-05:00

If you have questions about extra credit, please log on and read the article (URL below). Very interesting -
Barbara

http://blogs.edweek.org/teachers/coach_gs_teaching_tips/2010/11/why_extra_credit_is_extra_wrong.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+edweek%2Fcoachg+%28Coach+G%E2%80%99s+Teaching+Tips%29

Reposted from: http://www.edutopia.org/blog/reengaging-students-andrew-marcinek

2010-11-22T13:37:00.002-05:00

Ten Simple Strategies for Re-engaging Students
By Andrew Marcinek
11/21/10

Last week I observed a tired classroom. My English 101 class looked bored and uninterested in the discussion we were having. I observed one student intently working on a crossword puzzle. He was engaged. Another student was sneaking a peak at her mobile device every so often and then quickly looked back in my direction. She was almost engaged. Some students were simply staring at me so intently that I assumed they had painted eyes on the exterior of their eyelids.

Quick. React. What do you do hot shot? What. Do. You. Do?

There have been many conversations about transforming classrooms and in fact just one this week on transforming the entire educational system in #edchat. Change can be overwhelming for anyone, whether you are a new teacher or if you are a year away from retirement, but what is a good pace for change in our classrooms? Do we really need to overhaul the entire system overnight or simply take a micro approach and create small, incremental steps within our own classroom?

I came home from class and watched several videos by Michael Wesch, scanned Twitter for insight, and put on some music to ease my troubled mind. Then I reacted. I did not have time to sit around and wait. These students needed me and I was not living up to my personal standards. I took those tired faces and placed them around my computer monitor and reexamined my approach to English 101. Here's what we did.

Without disrupting the progression of the classroom too much, I decided to present the class with some new expectations for the class. I added a class wiki to facilitate our new path. Here is my list of expectations:

1. Have fun
I hope that this project will make writing a paper a more engaging process. Many times, students go through the motions in pursuit of the grade while missing out on the learning. This is where I hope this project will take us in a different direction. Too many times in higher education grades are obtained and learning is left behind. This is where that routine changes. I want you to become an expert on the issue you are covering and enjoy the process of research and writing.

2. Learn beyond the walls
Every week we enter our classroom and shut the door. There are no windows, one computer, and eight outlets. However, most of you possess devices that connect you to the outside world and to numerous contacts. Some of you are probably reading this on a mobile device. What is wrong with this picture? It is a skewed vision of what learning should be. Therefore, this project will take our class beyond the walls and windowless concrete and carry us into a world that is constantly connected and moving.

3. Expand your audience
I read your paper. I edit your paper. I grade your paper. Yawn. While I am an objective, worthy audience, I am simply one person. Today's student has the ability to reach out to millions on a daily basis and simply ask, "Is this good?" This project will present many windows to your work and engage you in a learning community beyond the walls of the Science Center. Learning should be transparent and open. Please allow others to collaborate with you as we engage in a new learning community.

4. Collaborate
One of our best resources as learners is our ability to connect. We can connect like never before and have the opportunity to engage with others from around the world on a daily basis. If we can learn anything from the web 2.0 generation it is that the ability to share and learn from each other is limitless.

5. Deconstruct an issue transparently
This project will open up your research and allow others to see how you are progressing. This project will model an environment of constructive criticism and intellectual discourse. There is no room for bullying or inappropriate criticism. This environment will employ transparency so that we can share and learn from each other.

6. Make many mistakes along the way
Unlike traditional assignments where mistakes are marked wrong, this project will mark your mistakes as learning steps. I encourage you to take risks and seek out information beyond what you think may or may not be right. In this forum, being right is hardly the end goal. Rather, the pursuit of greater understanding while exercising all of your options within a moral and ethical framework.

7. Share
What happens when you take notes within a notebook? You eventually close that notebook and put it into a bag, or drawer. Only you possess that information. This is hardly the way our world works today and hardly the way we will conduct our research for this project. By conducting research that is transparent, it will allow us to use a variety of sources and learn from each other.

8. Provide Constructive Criticism
One of the benefits of transparent learning is the ability to not only receive feedback from the instructor but to seek feedback from a much larger audience. This community we are creating will allow us to bounce ideas and critique work as we progress. While I will also take part in this critique, I urge you to consult your classmates for feedback and suggestions.

9. Eat a sandwich
A sandwich is like a well-constructed argumentative essay. It contains many layers but is constructed in a central...Ok, I can't continue with this nonsense. Just make a sandwich and enjoy it.

10. Engage Others
This type of work will require you to engage an audience and be a participatory learner. It is hard to sit back and coast in this format and will require each student to be an active participant in the learning process. I look forward to learning from each of you and creating a community of resources.

After I made this list. I sat back and imagined the project unfolding. What did this student learn from my English 101 class? How are they different? My learning objectives were clearly stated from the beginning, but I wanted more for them. I wanted them to go beyond reading critically, critical analysis, evaluating a writing task for purpose, audience, etc. I wanted them to not only write about this world, but also engage with it. My hope is that they understand that learning can take on various forms. The classroom is only one learning environment.

No matter the level of teaching experience we have all encountered moments where we feel disconnected from our students. This hardly means we are an awful teacher and need to forget everything we have learned and start over, but simply react. Find the best way to connect with students and realize that not all connections will suit every student. Connections can be made through a variety of ways. The key is not to overhaul the entire system, but simply adapt and change as you progress. Set a course for learning and be prepared for rough seas. Create a practical alternative or adaptation that blends elements of what we have been doing and what we would like to do better. The connections will follow.

IB Orientation - Great Opportunity

2010-11-17T12:33:00.001-05:00

CASIE’s International Baccalaureate Orientation is now up on our website and available for registering. It is March 8, 2011, at Atlanta International School. As we discussed, CASIE will offer a discounted rate for all future teachers. They can sign up online at: www.casieonline.org/events. If you are interested, email Barbara Dixon for a discount code.

We are very excited to offer this opportunity to NGCSU future teachers. Please let me know if you have any questions and please spread the word!

Bobbi Kay ¦ Associate Executive Director
Center for the Advancement and Study of International Education
P: 404.848.9044 ext 112 ¦ F: 404.848.9042 ¦ bobbi.kay@casieonline.org ¦ www.casieonline.org

Chestatee Academy - Hall County

2010-11-14T21:38:00.001-05:00

http://www.gainesvilletimes.com/section/6/article/41045/

Check out the link above to learn about Chestatee's innovative programming.

Opportunities Overseas

2010-11-14T21:19:00.000-05:00

Please find attached information about the 2,000 Grants for North American Language and Culture Assistants (Cultural Ambassadors) in schools in Spain for the 2011/2012 school year. This program is designed for college graduates, as well as college seniors and juniors. US or Canadian passport is required.

The application deadline is March 31, 2011, and complete information is provided at the Spanish Embassy Education Office website:

http://www.mec.es/sgci/usa/es/home/index.shtml

Please,feel free to forward this email among your students and make the attached brochure and poster available to them at your Resource Center, Library or Department public area. It is very important that you let the candidates know that there is NO APPLICATION FEE and that they do not have to provide any kind of deposit.

Around 1,500 US and Canadian graduates and students are currently participating in this assistantship program in Spanish schools. Special thanks to those of you who have collaborated with us for several years and have contributed to the enormous success of this program. We are convinced that the positions offered for the upcoming school year will continue to provide your graduates and students with a unique opportunity to improve their Spanish language and teaching skills and become immersed in the culture and history of Spain.

Article Links

2010-11-12T14:20:00.003-05:00

Check out these education links -

Teachers Prefer Technology over Textbooks
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationnews/8127270/Textbooks-becoming-obsolete-due-to-rise-of-computers-in-the-classroom-claim-teachers.html

Longer Days?
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/class-struggle/2010/11/dispiriting_fight_over_longer.html

Technology Plan
http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2010/11/09/12edtech.h30.html?tkn=UOCCqcfSmqGs%2FNrvf771479di6qNQS9CgTTQ&cmp=clp-sb-ascd

Congratulations!

2010-10-21T17:13:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to Donovan Layton. He was recently asked to present Effective Teaching Strategies to other teachers in his county. Way to go Donovan!

Teaching Opportunities--Southern Teachers Agency

2010-10-12T11:32:00.001-04:00

There are teaching opportunities available at Southern Teachers Agency. For more information contact

Kim Emmert
Coordinator of College Recruiting
Southern Teachers Agency
Tel (434) 295-9122
Recruiter@SouthernTeachers.com
www.SouthernTeachers.com

Website for Collaborative Learning

2010-09-11T22:14:00.001-04:00

If you are looking for Collaborative Learning ideas for your units, classroom, or to add new strategies to your teaching, check out this website: http://www.collaborativelearning.org/.

Have a great rest of the weekend.

Job Opportunity!

2010-09-09T14:06:00.000-04:00

Posted: Wednesday, September 8th 2010 at 2:55pm
Hall Co. Schools hiring half-time teachers
By Katie Highsmith Staff
GAINESVILLE - The Hall County School System is hiring.

Superintendent Will Schofield said Wednesday that the district is soliciting online applications for 15 to 30 certified half-time teachers.

He said the combination of the district no longer having any schools labeled "Needs Improvement" along with a record annual allotment has provided the federal Title I funds for the new hires.

Schofield said the new teachers will be hired to teach at Title 1 elementary schools to work with small groups of reading and math students during the academic block. He said middle school English and language arts teachers will be assigned to Title 1 middle schools to work with small groups of students on standards for those subjects. Schofield said middle school math teachers will also be hired for similar purposes.

Schofield added that these positions have no guarantee beyond the current school year, but he said they do qualify for employee benefits.

He said only applications completed online will be considered.

Retrieved from: http://www.accessnorthga.com/detail.php?n=232091

Jobs

2010-09-01T10:51:00.002-04:00

Please send me an email at bdixon@northgeorgia.edu if you are certified in Secondary Mathematics or SPED (will be in high school).

Fellowship

2010-08-24T10:26:00.001-04:00

CASIE is the Center for the Advancement of Studies in International Education. Please respond if you are interested in applying for the fellowship.

Fellowship Applications Due November 15, 2010

CASIE is accepting applications for its research fellowship program. Graduate students who are interested in conducting research on international education are invited to apply. The program gives fellowship participants an opportunity to work one on one with CASIE staff, board members and members of CASIE’s extended academic community while fostering research on international education and policy. For more information on the Fellowship Program or to download an application, visit www.casieonline.org/Programs/Fellowships.html.

Logical Choice

2010-08-10T16:36:00.002-04:00

A huge thank you to Cynthia Kaye and her team at Logical Choice Technologies, Lawrenceville, GA, for providing a 3Cam for one of our students teaching outside the United States. This technology will allow him more flexibility as he teaches mathematics. Thank you, as well, to Becky Milford, our representative, for providing an abundance of opportunities for professional learning.

Download ActivInspire

2010-08-10T16:33:00.001-04:00

Promethean is giving everyone the opportunity to download the personal version of ActivInspire. This free software will allow you to create Flip Charts for Promethean Boards. Here are the directions. Start Creating :-)

In your web browser, navigate to www.prometheanplanet.com
In order to access the download page, you must be logged in to the site. If you are not currently
registered, click the “Register” link; it is quick and free.
1. Below the banner at the top, in the row of menus options, click “Support”
2. From the Product Support page, click the link for ActivInspire
3. About half-way down the page, click the link marked “Download ActivInspire (this link will open a new
window)” and select your language for download from the next page
4. Click the “Download version 1.4” button
5. Select your operating system
6. A window will pop up with some questions about your use of ActivClassroom products
7. When you complete the form and click “Submit Form,” download will begin

School Starts - August 2010

2010-08-10T12:09:00.000-04:00

Thoughts -
With the start of a new school year, thoughts often go back to school years of old. Remember when we had to walk two miles uphill in the snow to school both ways??? Ha! Ha! As different as school may seem for some of us, it is normal for the students that are currently attending. Students are used to all the Promethean Boards, IPads, and Skype. As educators, we are the ones that sometimes lag behind in our technological training. I hope that you will take time this year to make learning and teaching more technology one of your priorities if you haven't already.

If you haven't had a chance to thank one of your former teachers that made a difference in your life, please take a few minutes and write a note or make a telephone call to them. I am sure they would love to hear from you and we all need to know that we make a difference.

Sad Note -
Many of you know Jeremy who worked with us in Post Bac for a couple of years. He is currently teaching in Kubal, Afghanistan. Recently there was an attack on some Americans in the country. Three of those Americans were friends with Jeremy and two of our other students, Zack and Trey. Please keep them all in your thoughts.

Other News -
Congratulations to the current group of Post Bacs who are currently in student teaching. I hope that you all learn a lot and pass on your vast knowledge to all those around.

Pinecrest Academy -
We have recently started a partnership with Pinecrest Academy to work with their staff on Professional Learning. The first session was exciting and invigorating. We are looking forward to learning and growing with this amazing group of educators.

Job Openings

2010-07-29T11:35:00.000-04:00

West Forsyth High School has a long-term substitute position available. Please contact the principal at West Forsyth if you are Chemistry or Broad-field Science Certified.

Also, make sure to check the Teach Georgia website at http://www.teachgeorgia.org/home.aspx for several counties still have job openings. Example of a few counties with openings:
* Fulton has 20 listed openings
* Gwinnett has openings in secondary math, physics, and science
* Cobb has openings in secondary math and physics

More Jobs/Twitter/Changes

2010-07-26T13:25:00.000-04:00

Jobs -
Cobb County is currently looking for teachers to fill slots for the 2010 - 2011 school year. Be sure to check their website as well as the TEACHGEORGIA site.

Change in Twitter -
So far we have only sent out tweets when there was a job available or something urgent. We will be changing those tweets to include various information concerning education. If your account is set to text messages and you don't have unlimited texts, you may want to change your account over to email.

Changes in the Office -
Jenica Alvarez will begin her student teaching the week of August 2. Please note that if you call the office, you will be directed to either Carrie Jane Sparks, Dixie Hamilton, Deborah Hartman, or Barbara Dixon.

Jobs

2010-07-09T11:52:00.001-04:00

There is a Language Arts job available at Jones Middle School and a high school English job available at South Gwinnett High School. Both schools are in Gwinnett County.

There is also a High School Mathematics job available in Rabun County.

Education

2010-06-25T12:38:00.001-04:00

As I approach the beginning of another cohort start, I think about all of the opportunities that teaching provides each of us. What other occupation can you affect so many lives students and parents exponentially? As a teacher, you become the provider of content, the counselor, the nurse, the authority, the one to dry the tears, and the one to encourage and support. Even though the list may seem endless and tiring, there is no better reward than to have a student come back and say, I am successful because you took the time to care. Teaching is a hard job; however, it is one that provides more rewards than can ever be counted. For all of you who have recently gotten jobs (congratulations), to the ones still looking (don't give up hope), and to the ones about to start - know that what you do for students makes a difference in ways that you may never understand. I hope you all have a great rest of the summer and know how honored I am to be called a teacher. :-) Barbara

Barrow County

2010-06-06T22:16:00.000-04:00

Teach Georgia has 26 jobs posted for Barrow County. Continue to check the Teach Georgia site as well as each school district's website for updates.

Jobs in Habersham County, GA

2010-06-03T11:35:00.000-04:00

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENTS
(Candidates will not be considered without a completed application on file.)
POSITION JOB DETAILS QUALIFICATIONS APPLICATION
DEADLINE
Special Education Teacher
High School Level Georgia Teaching Certificate in Special Education

General Curriculum (P-12)
Until Filled

Science Teacher High School Level Georgia Teaching Certificate in Science (6-12) Until Filled

English Teachers High School Level Georgia Teaching Certificate in English (6-12) Until Filled

Math Teachers High School Level Georgia Teaching Certificate in Math (6-12) Until Filled

Download Application at: www.franklin.k12.ga.us or
pick up application at any of our six schools or central office.
You must return application to the central office.
The Franklin County Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or sex in its employment
practices.

GACE Books for Sale by Student

2010-06-02T14:51:00.000-04:00

I have a GACE XAM book in middle grades Language arts 011 and Middle Grades mathematics 013. If anyone is interested, they can contact me at lauradiehl@brmemc.net.

New Starts

2010-05-27T20:04:00.001-04:00

We are currently taking applications for the July cohort starts. If you know of anyone interested in the Post Bac Program, please refer them to the NGCSU School of Education website under Post Bac. The next cohorts will begin the week of July 19.

Spanish Jobs

2010-05-12T11:06:00.000-04:00

Ms. Anita Lawrence, World Languages Coordinator in Atlanta Public Schools foresees a need for nearly 17 Spanish teachers for next year. If you are interested in these positions, feel free to contact Ms. Anita Lawrence at the email address below:

ablawrence@atlanta.k12.ga.us

Jobs

2010-05-10T14:40:00.001-04:00

Recently, I spoke with a principal from Henry County Schools and he informed me of several openings within Henry. Please go to teachgeorgia and to the Henry County website.

In other news, while talking to HR folks, they are telling us that hiring will not begin in earnest until the end of May and will continue through the middle of July. Employers can be very choosy about who they hire so remember to follow through on every step of the interview process.

We will be starting new cohorts in July, November, and February. If you know of anyone interested, please give them our name and number.

Opening at GAC

2010-03-23T13:57:00.000-04:00

Faculty Positions
Name Owner Date
SH Math Deborah J. DeBoer 2/4/2010 11:59:37 AM
Click on the job title to view, print or forward the expanded job posting description.
Choral Director Deborah J. DeBoer 12/17/2009 10:35:59 AM

Why GREAT teachers are required not just wanted!!!

2010-03-11T11:45:00.000-05:00

The research shows that kids who have two, three, four strong teachers in a row will eventually excel, no matter what their background, while kids who have even two weak teachers in a row will never recover," says Kati Haycock of the Education Trust and coauthor of the 2006 study "Teaching Inequality: How Poor and Minority Students Are Shortchanged on Teacher Quality." copied from Newsweek, March 2010

Troops to Teachers

2010-02-22T12:15:00.000-05:00

If you are former military, you may qualify for Troops to Teachers. If you qualify for the program, you could be eligible for up to $5,000 to help you meet the cost of certification or up to $10,000 as a bonus if you agree to teach in one of Georgia's high needs schools.

Georgia Teacher Certification Testing Requirements: The
Professional Standards Commission (PSC) initiated an educator assessment
program that is called the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of
Educators (GACE). The GACE web site is
www.gace.nesinc.com/GA_testdates.asp. They are the GACE Basic Skills and
the GACE Subject Content Area. The GACE Basic Skills Assessment is
required for acceptance into all teacher certification programs in
Georgia. The GACE Subject Content Area assessment is designed to
evaluate the specific subject area in which you intend to certify.
Coordination's are ongoing to have these tests offered through base education centers for active duty and reserve military personnel. We recommend you consider taking both tests prior to separating from the service if possible.

Please contact Georgia Troops to Teachers listed under the www.gapsc.com website.

Project Wet and Wild

2010-02-17T13:05:00.001-05:00

There will be a workshop for Project Wet and Wild March 27-28. This workshop will cover middle school activities, but if you are interested in teaching high school you are more than welcome to come. It will count for one PLU credit. Project Wet and Wild will meet from 9AM till 4PM each day so as to meet the requirements for the PLU. The workshop will cost $40, which covers snacks, lunch, and materials for both days. Only 24 people will be able to sign up for the workshop. The deadline to sign up is March 12, 2010.

Quality Schools International

2010-02-15T14:44:00.000-05:00

	NON PROFIT INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS

	FIRST SCHOOL FOUNDED IN 1971

	35 SCHOOLS IN 25 COUNTRIES AND GROWING

	SERVING DIPLOMATIC, DEVELOPMENT, AND BUSINESS FAMILIES

	SUCCESS APPROACH TO LEARNING

	QUALIFIED, EXPERIENCED & CARING TEACHERS

	FINANCIAL SUPPORT FROM THE US GOVERNMENT OFFICE OF OVERSEAS SCHOOLS

	ACCREDITATION BY MIDDLE STATES ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS (USA) OR SOUTHERN ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS (USA)
	For more information visit http://www.qsi.org/

New Jobs in Gwinnett

2010-01-26T14:06:00.000-05:00

8:52 p.m. Thursday, January 21, 2010

Text size:
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6 principals named in Gwinnett

By Patrick Fox

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Six principals have been selected to head six new Gwinnett schools opening next August.

Administrators for five elementary schools and a middle school were identified at Thursday's board of education regular meeting.

The new principals are Lawanna Owens-Twaites, Anderson-Livsey Elementary [Lawrenceville Elementary assistant principal]; Kimberly Reed, Burnett Elementary [Freeman's Mill Elementary assistant principal]; Dion Jones, Roberts Elementary [Rockbridge Elementary principal]; Dot Schoeller, Jenkins Elementary [ Simonton Elementary principal]; Joe Ahrens, Ferguson Elementary [Arcado Elementary principal]y; Chris Godfrey, Sugar Hill Elementary [Patrick Elementary assistant principal], and Joyce Spraggs, Grace Snell Middle School [human resources director].

Last month, the district named Kerensa Wing as principal of Lanier High School, also opening in August. Wing, who began working earlier this month, had served as assistant principal at Collins Hill High since 2002. For the next several months, she will hire faculty and staff, meet with parents and community members, and complete tasks associated with opening a new high school.

The school district will need to appoint 42 principals over the next five years as it opens eight new schools.

In a report to the board, Frances Davis, chief human resources officers, said the new schools must hire six assistant principals and 428 teachers. The district currently has 122 principals, 488 assistant principals and 11,573 teachers.

Elections for new board of education officers also were held Thursday's meeting. Mary Kay Murphy, who has served on the board since 1997, was elected chairman. Robert McClure, a board member since 1995, was elected vice-chairman.

More Job Possibilities

2010-01-26T13:43:00.000-05:00

Teach Georgia has some job listings for schools all around the state. Go to www.teachgeorgia.org for more information on job possibilities. Also try checking out the local school system websites for more listings.

Job Possibilities

2010-01-26T13:28:00.000-05:00

Southern Teachers Agency currently has 329 vacancies listed by schools for the 2010-11 school year. We expect schools to post additional openings with STA for the remainder of the spring and summer.

STA is the oldest educational recruitment service in America. We receive job listings from hundreds of PK-12 private schools around the South. Schools come to STA because they recognize the value of STA’s help in recruiting & screening talented candidates.

Certification is not required for most middle- and high-school teaching positions.

This week’s current openings include the following jobs:

Art –– 2 jobs in GA, TX

Biology –– 11 jobs in GA, LA, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, VA

Chinese –– 5 jobs in DC, FL, VA

Chemistry –– 12 jobs in AL, DC, FL, GA, KS, LA, MD, NC, PA, TN

Elementary –– 15 jobs in DC, GA, MD, NC, VA

English –– 29 jobs in FL, GA, MD, NC, OH, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA

French –– 6 jobs in GA, MD, SC, VA

School Counselor –– 19 jobs in DE, FL, GA, KY, MD, NC, PA, TN, TX, VA

History/Social Studies –– 29 jobs in FL, GA, MD, NC, OH, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA

Latin –– 8 jobs in GA, MD, NC, PA, TN, VA

Learning Specialist –– 5 jobs in GA, KY, NC

Math –– 45 jobs in AL, DC, FL, GA, KY, MD, NC, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA

Media Specialist/Librarian –– 2 jobs in NC, VA

Music/Chorus/Band –– 3 jobs in FL, MD, TN

Physics –– 14 jobs in FL, GA, OH, PA, TN, TX, VA

Science –– 44 jobs in AL, DC, FL, GA, KS, LA, MD, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, VA

Spanish –– 26 jobs in DC, FL, GA, MD, NC, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA

In addition, we presently have 91 Administrative Opportunities listed around the South.

Requirements:

Elementary Education and Learning Specialist: teacher certification required
Art, Physical Education, and Music: teacher certification strongly preferred
Media Specialist/Library: MLS (or comparable degree) required
Guidance Counselor: master’s degree in counselor education
Administration: master’s degree in administration strongly preferred
For most other middle- and high-school teaching positions, a bachelor’s degree with a major in the teaching field (or at least a minor) is essential, but teacher certification is not.

Application process: Interested candidates should apply to Southern Teachers Agency. The process consists of completing an STA application (available online), sending a credentials file, and having a telephone interview.

Please visit our website or contact:

Southern Teachers Agency
7 Elliewood Avenue, Suite 2A
Charlottesville, VA 22903
Tel (434) 295-9122

Teachers@SouthernTeachers.com
www.SouthernTeachers.com

Southern Teachers Job Fair

Charlottesville, Virginia

Friday, March 19, 2010

Some Info

2009-09-27T21:02:00.000-04:00

Resource
Recently, Mrs. Hartman was at a conference and learned about the website, thinkfinity.com. It has several wonderful resources that may be used in your classroom.

Stimulas
Stiumlas money has arrived at many local districts. Please check TeachGeorgia.org for new job posts. Be sure to check individual district websites as well.

New Start
A new start for the Post Bac Program will begin in November 2009. Check out the Post Bac page at www.ngcsu.edu. The November Program will be approximately 75% online and 25% face to face on Thursday nights at the Holiday Inn Express in Cumming, Georgia.

Study Guides

2009-08-11T17:04:00.000-04:00

If you have a GACE study guide that you no longer want, please let me know. There are several students looking for used ones.

New Program Start and New Program

2009-07-29T17:53:00.000-04:00

New Start

Welcome to all of you starting in the August 2009 cohorts. We are excited that you have chosen teaching as your career path. Currently the job market for teachers is soft; however, the predictions are for that to change within the next five years. This is an exciting time for change and innovation in the field. Again welcome and congratulations on an upcoming year filled with challenges and rigor.

Certified Teachers
I recently received this as an email message. I don't know anything about the agency but wanted to put it out there for you.

Southern Teachers Agency currently has 82 vacancies listed by schools for the 2009-10 school year. We expect schools to post additional openings with STA for the remainder of the summer.

STA is the oldest educational recruitment service in America. We receive job listings from hundreds of PK-12 private schools around the South. Schools come to STA because they recognize the value of STA’s help in recruiting & screening talented candidates.

Certification is not required for most middle- and high-school teaching positions.

This week’s current openings include the following jobs:

Biology –– 3 jobs in GA, SC, VA
Chemistry –– 4 jobs in LA, MD, VA
Elementary –– 7 jobs in GA, LA, VA, WV
English –– 5 jobs in MD, NC, TX, VA
French –– 1 job in DC
School Counselor –– 3 jobs in FL, TX
History/Social Studies –– 4 jobs in FL, MD, NC, VA
Learning Specialist –– 1 job in TN
Math –– 14 jobs in AR, GA, LA, NC, SC, VA
Media Specialist/Librarian –– 3 jobs in MD, TX, VA
Music/Chorus/Band –– 1 job in FL
Physical Education –– 2 jobs in AR, DC
Science –– 10 jobs in DC, GA, KY, LA, MD, SC, VA
Spanish –– 3 jobs in SC, VA

In addition, we presently have 24 Administrative Opportunities listed around the South.

Requirements:

Elementary Education and Learning Specialist: teacher certification required
Art, Physical Education, and Music: teacher certification strongly preferred
Media Specialist/Library : MLS (or comparable degree) required
Guidance Counselor: master’s degree in counselor education
Administration: master’s degree in administration strongly preferred
For most other middle- and high-school teaching positions, a bachelor’s degree with a major in the teaching field (or at least a minor) is essential, but teacher certification is not.

Application process: Interested candidates should apply to Southern Teachers Agency. The process consists of completing an STA application (available online), sending a credentials file, and having a telephone interview.

Please visit our website or contact:
Southern Teachers Agency7 Elliewood Avenue, Suite 2ACharlottesville, VA 22903Tel (434) 295-9122
Teachers@SouthernTeachers.com www.SouthernTeachers.com

Job Openings

2009-06-29T11:37:00.001-04:00

Gwinnett County: http://www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us/careers/careershr.nsf/618c71ec01d09d3a85257273006ee6b6?SearchView (When you follow the link type "Teachers" in the search box)

Hall County: https://ats3.searchsoft.net/ats/job_board_frame?refresh=Y&COMPANY_ID=00008702&APPLICANT_TYPE_ID=00000001

Forsyth County: http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/129410616211729590/blank/browse.asp?A=383&BMDRN=2000&BCOB=0&C=54743

Lumpkin County: https://ats4.searchsoft.net/ats/job_board_frame?COMPANY_ID=00008808

It is Almost July :-)

2009-06-17T18:40:00.000-04:00

Welcome
Beginning this week, we started three additional cohorts of students.
Welcome to everyone from the Epworth, Chestatee, and Horizon cohorts.
You will learn a tremendous amount during the next year. We hope that
you will take all the opportunities afforded you to learn all you can.

For the cohorts that finished in May, your certifications should be in your
hands or on the way to your house. The PSC has all of your materials and
is working feverously to get everything processed. A huge "Thank You" to
Ms. Chris Parker, Ms. Sarah Alvarez and Mr. Jeremy Davis for their work getting
everything together and sent.

I have heard about a few jobs that are opening up in the Metro Area. Please note
that everyone is still waiting to get the final numbers so that they can hire.
If you haven't sent emails to principals lately, I would do so now. It is a great time to
put your name out there again.

Some of the pictures from our recent celebrations are below. I will try to add more next week. Keep checking!

If you are on Skype, you can now add me to your list.

I hope that you all are enjoying some well deserved relaxation this summer. Take care, be safe, and let me know if you need me.

With much respect,
Barbara

Celebrations!!!

2009-06-17T18:12:00.001-04:00

2009-05-12T05:29:00.000-04:00

Jobs!

Private and Independent Schools
If you are interested in private or independent schools in the southeast, please check out this website:
http://www.southernteachers.com/Internal/CmsViewer.aspx?CmsPageListingId=18

Fairfax County, Virginia
There are several openings in Fairfax County, Virginia. It is the 12th largest school district in the nation and is close to Washington, DC. Here is the website for job openings:
http://www.fcps.edu/DHR/applicants/howtoapply.htm

2009-05-06T16:43:00.000-04:00

Website

Kathy, a teacher and friend, recommended this website. She teaches mathematics and language arts and has found the site valuable for lesson plans, assessments, and ideas.

http://www.proteacher.net/

Update

2009-05-03T13:11:00.000-04:00

Jobs!
The Stimulus Money from the Federal Government is starting to get to school districts. There will be job openings in Title I schools as well as additional openings for Special Education teachers in Title I and Non Title Schools.

Now is the time to send e-mails to principals and remind them that you are interested in a job at their school. Be sure to attach your resume and then follow up with a handwritten card a few days later thanking them for taking the time to look over your resume. Your application must be complete with the school district in which you are seeking employment. Check with the Human Resources Department to make sure it is complete.

Certification
We are in the process of putting all of the certification information together and adding the final PLUs. If you receive a call from my office, please be sure to get the required information to me asap.

Celebrations
Please check with the person responsible for your cohort celebration if you have questions.
Cleveland Cohort (Wild Wings Cafe) - Karen
Chestatee Cohort (2 Dog Cafe) - George and Kayla
South Forsyth Cohort (Provinos) - Kari
Horizon Cohort - Jennifer

New Cohorts - June 2009
We will be starting new cohorts in the following locations:
Monday nights beginning June 15 - Epworth
Tuesday nights beginning June 16 - Chestatee Middle School
Saturdays beginning June 20 - Horizon Christian Academy
Please contact Anita Roush at ajroush@ngcsu.edu or Barbara Dixon at bdixon@ngcsu.edu for more information.

2009-04-15T15:22:00.000-04:00

Jobs:
Check the Gwinnett County School Systems website. A few more jobs have been posted.

Almost Over!

2009-04-10T11:26:00.000-04:00

Student Teaching
For students who began their Post Bacc Program in either June or August of 2008, the light at the end of the tunnel is visable! May 8th is the last day of student teaching for the June Cohorts and the last day of post planning is the last day for the August Cohort! Remember to complete the work sample and remind your teacher to turn in all of their observations.

Classes
Students who began the classes in January are now completing the fourth class and getting ready to begin the final class of Instructional and Behavioral Management. Then it is on to the practicum and student teaching.

New Cohorts
New cohorts will begin in June 2009 at Chestatee Middle School, Epworth Campus, and Horizon Christian Academy. Be sure to check the North Georgia website, http://www.ngcsu.edu/, for information.

Jobs
Be sure to check the Teach Georgia website as well as individual wesites of private schools. Friendship Christian School still has an opening for a Grades 6 - 12 teacher for mathematics and science (check last week's blog post). If you are an HPE person, be sure to check the national organization's website. There are a few jobs listed there. If you are not opposed to teaching outside the United States, there are several jobs listed for teachers to teach English to native students of various countries.

Have a wonderful weekend. Happy Easter and Passover.

Job Opening

2009-04-02T11:08:00.000-04:00

Friendship Christian School in Forsyth County has an opening for a Middle School/High School science and mathematics teacher for the 2009-2010 school year. Please contact Mr. Butch Quinn, Dean of Students at www.fcsga.org.

Things are Looking Up!

2009-03-29T20:43:00.000-04:00

Hiring
What a change a few weeks can make!
Students have started getting interviews and a few have even been hired.
Be sure that all paperwork for the counties in which you have applied is
complete. You will usually not get an interview if you have parts missing.

Testing
After Spring Break most districts will be administering the CRCT.
If you have an opportunity to help in a classroom be sure to take
advantage of that opportunity. Once you have your own classroom,
you will be responsible for the testing of your students. It is always
helpful to know what is expected of teachers.

EOCT tests are also on the school calendars. Be sure to check the
Georgia Department of Education website so that you can see what
the state requires for students and schools.

Spring Break
Can you believe it is almost here? Many of you will only have a few weeks
of student teaching left after Spring Break. I hope that you will all enjoy your
time off and spend some meaningful moments with those you love.

March Madness

2009-03-16T21:57:00.000-04:00

Over 80 Post Baccalaureate students are going through student teaching while 49 new students are beginning their third and fourth classes of the five classes. With everyone in different places, I thought that it would be beneficial for the new students to hear about experiences from students that are almost finished. If you are almost finished and would like to write about your experiences on the blog, just sent me an e-mail and I will get it attached. I may not be able to post all of them but I will post as many as possible.

I titled this post March Madness as a way of comparing student teaching to the basketball finals that many of us enjoy during this time of the year. Most student teachers work very hard to make points with students each day whether by a positive word, a lesson plan filled with engaging learning and executed perfectly, or a smile for a student that has had a bad day. Even though student teachers work hard, sometimes, the benefits are not as obvious as some think they should be. It may be many years, if ever, before the positive impact is known. A reflection that I read recently described a student teacher and her willingness to go the extra mile by going to a soccer game to watch her students. The benefits of the hour of her time that she took were immeasurable. The students were excited when they saw her at the game. That excitement transferred to the classroom where the students continue to work extra hard to show her their appreciation. Just remember that even as our favorite team does not always win the final game, they won some games and made an impact just getting to the BIG GAME. So it is with student teaching - you may not win them all, but you will certainly make an impact.

Reminder
On a different note, be sure that you have sent in all the paperwork for the districts in which you are applying. Once the school districts start looking at applicants for interviews, they will be looking at those with complete applications first.

Twitter
If you are using a Twitter account, you can follow the Post Bacc Group by typing in BarbDixon as a username. I am trying to introduce some of the various technologies that our Grades 6 - 12 students are using and looking at ways that we can incorporate this technology in lessons to make them more engaging for students. If you are setting up a Twitter Account, be sure that you set it so that you don't get text messages all the time (unless you have unlimited text messaging through your cellular provider).

Take a Deep Breath and Enjoy Your Internship

2009-03-05T20:32:00.001-05:00

Many of you have mentioned that you are feeling overwhelmed by many things but mainly by the preceived lack of jobs that are available. I write preceived to help you to understand that jobs will be available; however, it will be closer to July and August once the money has flowed down from the stimulas package and the economy gets in a little better shape.
So . . . for this week let's concentrate on what you can do to make your internship less stressful and more engaging for learners.

Remember to take care of yourself
You have heard me say many times that what you do is so very important. You must remember that you have to take care of yourself in order to provide the level of "important" that you need to show to those around you.
a) Take a few minutes to think about WHY you want to teach.
b) Think about the teacher who made a difference in your life.
c) If you have children, take a few minutes to go outside and enjoy the sunshine with them.
d) Remember to take time with your spouse or significant other (you want them around after the internship :-) ).

Remember that you do make a difference
Many stories have come my way during this term. One that comes to mind is of a student teacher that heard of a student's need for food and loaded up bags of groceries and made sure the student and their family received them. What a difference that made in their lives.
Another story that comes to mind is that of a student teacher that had a colleague that needed a way to work every day. Without thinking twice the student teacher volunteered their services and not only picked up the colleague but returned them home safely every evening.
See . . . what you do on a daily basis does not go unnoticed no matter how insignificant you may think your actions are.

You have a job to do
Your job is to make sure students are successful academically as well as being challenged as much as possible. Michele Dugan has provided several internet resources that you may find helpful. Here they are:
I use this website for making vocabulary connections. This could really be used in any class and is wonderful for visual learners.http://www.visuwords.com/?word=convince

This is Mark Diamond's website. I will be attending his April 1st workshop. If you think of any teachers that would like to attend, I would be happy to explain a few of his methods to them!http://www.anyonecanwrite.com/index.htmlAnd here are reviews on his method books from Amazon.com:http://www.amazon.com/Tricks-Student-Story-Writing-Success/dp/0977147002

This is the website for the Cumming Town Loafer. Linda Allen is the publisher and would be happy to speak to classes! http://townloafer.com/cumming/modules/news/article.php?storyid=286

Rob's cousin's husband, Shane, is a writer in Tennessee and has written very successful books!http://www.shaneberryhill.com/

Finally, I use this website for so many reading and comprehension activities. It is directed toward ELL/ESOL learners, but I think that any student can benefit from it! I get ideas here all the time:http://www.eslcafe.com/

I hope that these resources will bring some new and fresh ideas to an already wonderful school!

I hope you all have an amazing week and know that you are thought of often.

With much respect and apprecation for each of you who truly care about students and their future, Barbara :-)

What's New

2009-02-26T21:10:00.000-05:00

Here are a few additional options for jobs. You may be familiar with some of them. Others may be new to you.

Please note that the listing of the websites below are in no part an endorsement of the school or program. This is an attempt to pass along information that you may find useful. As with all Internet use, be careful when responding to advertising of any kind. Remember that any site that asks for money is probably not legitimate.

Don't forget about the AJC Jobs section:

http://www.ajc.com/hotjobs/content/hotjobs/

Teach Georgia - There are some listings for the Georgia Virtual School. That is an online school that provides classes to students in Georgia High Schools. This site is updated frequently so be sure to check it several times a week.

http://www.teachgeorgia.org/

Atlanta International School - This is a private school in Atlanta that may be of interest to Language Teachers.

http://www.aischool.org/employment/

Hebron Christian Academy in Dacula, GA, is accepting applications for the upcoming school year.

http://www.hebronlions.org/html/Employment.html

Some people live close to South Carolina so here is a website that may be of interest to you all.

http://www.cerra.org/home.html

Where are the jobs?

2009-02-21T18:30:00.000-05:00

Remember that parents are continuing to have children and there will always be a need for teachers. There may not be many classroom jobs available for the upcoming year; however, there are many opportunities available in the area of education. Don't forget about the following areas:
1) Substitute teaching
2) Tutoring
3) Textbook companies have a wide array of jobs open for educators
4) Online schools

If you are seeking a classroom job for the 2009-2010 school year be aware that districts must first place all of their current teachers prior to being able to hire from outside their district. That being said, it will probably be May or June before districts know what positions they will have open. Then it will be June or July when interviews will be scheduled. Fully certified teachers will be getting the first opportunities to interview for job openings. Once those interviews and hires have been completed, any openings that are left may be open for interviews to students who have completed a four year degree and all GACE tests as well as being in a certification program such as our NGCSU Post Baccalaureate Program.

Acceptance Letters to Go Out

2008-12-15T20:55:00.000-05:00

Acceptance letters for the January 2009 Post Bacc start will be sent out on December 17, 2008.
Approximately 55 students have been accepted to the program.

NGCSU website

2008-11-16T18:43:00.000-05:00

Please visit the Post Bacc Page located on the North Georgia College and State University website - www.ngcsu.edu.

January Starts for Post Bacc Program

2008-10-29T18:31:00.000-04:00

Two new Post Bacc cohorts will begin in January. One of the cohorts will be on Tuesday evenings from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM at Chestatee Middle School in Hall County, Georgia. The other cohort will be on Saturdays at Horizon Christian Academy, Forsyth County, Georgia, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.