The road less travelled

"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference." - Robert Frost I watched Leni Riefenstahl’s Triumph of the Will, a very controversial film on Hitler’s 1934 Nuremberg Rally put on by equally controversial Toronto film connoisseur, Reg Hartt, at the Cineforum (a make-shift theatre in his home). The movie blew me away. It was a powerful, real-life portrayal of Hitler’s propaganda machine and the horrifying consequences of mass media manipulation. An eerie chill went through my spine as I saw aerial footage of column after column of endless soldiers marching through the streets of Nuremberg. Little German boys and girls hailing the Fuhrer with innocent smiles and outstretched hands of youthful idealism. Little German youths beating the drums of death. Hitler parting a sea of loyal soldiers. And watching a nation mesmerized by the spell of this diminutive, unassuming, and rather plain looking monster. What really hit me though was Reg Hartt’s commentary after the movie ended. A lady had kept coming to the viewing of that movie, over and over again. She had attended the viewing over sixteen times. When he asked her what she found so fascinating about the film. She told him that she was the young smiling girl in the movie looking down from a rooftop at Hitler’s parade. She was with her Mother, Father, sisters, and brother. They were waiving the Nazi flag and cheering Hitler on. They were Jews. She was the only survivor in her family. What flag are you waiving? What herd mentality have we accepted without further thought, without scrutiny? I challenge you to take the road less traveled by. It is uncommon knowledge that gives rise to uncommon leadership. Do something uncommon. Go to the library and pick out a book that you would never touch in a million years. Watch a film in a genre that you rarely see. Attend a lecture on a topic that would make most people go, “Huh?” What is one thing you can do or experience this month that is uncommon? Go do it.

Are you considering hiring a private tutor part 2

What types of subjects do private tutors specialize in? Anything you could think of, there is a private tutor out there that specializes in that subject. They are just like teachers in a sense. Consider the fact that for there to be a course of study available, there has to be someone to teach it. In that same respect, whether you are studying Pre-Algebra, Quantum Physics, or Packaging there is someone out there who can help you. If you are debating on whether or not to hire a private tutor for yourself, your child, or someone you know and are wary about the costs, be assured that the benefits of private tutoring are above and beyond any cost constraints involved, and in all reality, private tutors are not as expensive as you might think. Tutors usually charge for their services on an hourly basis, rather than a flat fee. The key word is ‘usually’ as some tutors charge a base fee per day or week. For the most cost Effective private tutoring experience, you will probably want to go to your local public or school library or an academic counselor for help finding a tutor who charges per the hour. Many times, for the best deal, you will probably get a fellow student who has probably already passed the course with flying colors. Many people frown on having fellow students tutor them in their school subjects, but if you or your beloved academic scholar (or not-so-academic-scholar) can stand to swallow their pride a bit, student tutors make the best tutors out there. They have the ability to understand the academic needs that you have as a student better than anybody else. This is especially true of a person who is trained to teach on the subject as they can be somewhat of an expert, and that is not what most people need in a private tutor.

Courses for learning ways to control stress

The dream of each person is to become at peace and happy when things are going right in our lives. Reality is that when the tables are turned, it is true the picture becomes totally different and the changes and hardships can break a person’s spirit. One of the hurdles can be the presence of good and bad stress. Bad stress needs to be taken care of right away before it causes the life to also be affected and become unhappy. The key to stress is learning how to deal with it. These courses that teach you how to manage it are there to show you how coping is the way to succeed. Stress is not selective in the time it comes, how it comes, or who it comes to. No one is immune to it. Stress management courses can show anyone who is plagued by stress how to begin to take control. These courses will show you how to see what is causing the stress. When you begin to understand the things that are causing the stress, you can learn what things you need to do to stop it from bothering you. You might find this hard but, with professional stress management personnel, you will be able to move forward. High Performance is on such company. You can even take the stress management courses online. Knowing the basic and advanced tips can be accomplished din your own home is also comforting. The courses are designed to teach you the truth about stress and will help you to begin the journey to total freedom from stress. Each activity is turned toward the stress and how to deal with it. For more info see stressmanagementmethods/Stress_Management_Program on Stress Management Program. The course will give , those that are participating, the information about stress and what is necessary for them to think about in their mind about it. They are also instructed on how to see the stress in a positive way. Those who are taking the course can learn that stress can be managed in a positive way. It is even more important that each course provides a new opportunity for those taking it to practice activities that will help to relieve stress from their bodies. When you learn the right steps, it is a greater chance that your life will become free of stress. Joining a course to learn how to manage your stress will be the first step.

Training faq answers about different types of training

* What kinds of career training are available? Although training schools vary according to the career training programs that they are offering to the public, the following career training can be found in most training schools across the United States. - Automotive Technology career training will help you in the repair of automobiles. It includes the diagnosis and repair of different automobile parts such as brakes, suspension, electrical, air-conditioning, and overall engine performance system. The skills and knowledge that you will acquire here will help you in getting national and state certifications. - Business Support Services career training will teach you to compose and edit business-type documents using the computer. Different aspects of business support, such as communication, accounting, and human relations, are also tackled during the training. - Woodworking career training will expose you to different technical knowledge, like cabinetmaking and millwork. You will be trained in the operation of different processing equipment as well as power tools and techniques in working with wood. - Culinary Arts career training will teach you about large-quantity food preparation and serving. Particular places of instruction are the school cafeteria and restaurants affiliated with the training school. It also offers courses in sanitation, nutrition, and supervision. - Drafting career training is where you will learn all about technical vocabularies, technical drawing, and its application. In addition, you will be working with the latest equipment and software in the field of drafting. - In Electronics career training, you will learn to install, troubleshoot, and repair different types of equipment. There are also courses specializing in radio, telephone, and data transmission circuits. - You will be trained to be a Certified Nursing Assistant in Health career training. You will be working with a nursing home facility after you have completed the training. After that, you will be prepared for your State Certification examination. - In Machine Technology career training, you will be trained in handling different kinds of machines such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders. You will also learn to use the hand tools required to finish or assemble different parts. - Retail Marketing career training will teach you about customer service, cash handling, inventory, and promotion or advertising. * What training resources are available online? There are several training resources that are available to you online, whatever line of work you want to engage in. These include: 1. E-learning solutions, 2. Online training programs, 3. Interactive training classes in real time, and 4. Visual hands-on programs that include online tutorials and training methods * What is eLearning? eLearning is a type of instruction found on the Internet. There are numerous purposes it serves, including the following: - It is used by companies to train their personnel as well as to inform their clients and business partners about their products, services, and company policies. - It is sometimes used in distance learning, saving an individual the time, hassle, and expense of commuting to a classroom. - It can also be used as a promotional tool to educate the public about their rights as citizens. Instead of sending out paper flyers and conduct large-scale sessions to educate the public, the internet can relay the necessary information.

Fall back to school gifts for the new teacher

Back to school lists are everywhere. Stores are crowded with people rushing around to prepare kids for school. September approaches quickly! Whether your child is in first grade or fifth; a simple gift for their new teacher is a great idea! Some schools have teacher appreciation days; other teachers never receive the recognition they deserve for their hard work. There are many small easy ways to appreciate and recognize the teacher in your child’s life. Teachers spend countless hours with the children and it is nice to recognize them for all of their hard work. The small little things you can do to make them feel appreciated will mean a lot to them as they start the year off! Many kids come home with welcome baskets or welcome bags from their new teacher to welcome them into their classroom. Why not purchase a small gift for their teacher as well! Here are a few suggestions: 1. Cookie Gift Baskets are a nice gift. Find a gift basket that is personalized for a teacher. Gift Baskets are useful for a teacher since once the food is gone, the basket may be used for storage or other items. 2. Personalized Mugs - A great idea for the teacher who loves their coffee in the morning! Most teachers like to keep a beverage in the classroom while teaching. Be thoughtful with a personalized mug with their own name on it to display on their desk. 3. A Unique Wall Clock - One way to impress is to purchase a unique wall clock for the teacher to display on their wall for all to see and enjoy. Since everything is scheduled in school, a wall clock will be most beneficial. The clock can be used by all including your child! It will definitely be a gift the teacher can enjoy day in and day out! With many different wall clocks to choose from, find one that best suites the style of your teacher and their classroom. 4. Games for the Classroom-Many teachers like to include a game shelf in their classrooms for their students for the rainy days! For teachers of older students, a great trivia game is a wonderful idea. Purchasing a game for a teacher’s gift will also benefit your child. 5. The Essential Tote - Teachers are known for carrying tote bags. Why not choose a special tote as a gift! Giving a practical gift that is useful will be remembered. Useful, practical gifts are always appreciated. Purchasing a tote will be appreciated more if you add a personal touch. Take note on the colors around the teachers room if your not certain of the style and color of tote to purchase. It’s always nice to go with a neutral color with a monogram. Find a tote that has pockets for all of the teacher’s accessories! Overall whatever you choose be sure to include a nice thank you card signed by your child with your gift. Finding the perfect gift online is the easiest way to appreciate that special teacher in your child’s life.

Salt lake city schools see first utah scholarship grads

Salt Lake City Schools recognized the academic success of both a federally funded program, and of its individual students in May. The first group of 150 Utah Scholars has graduated from the rigorous academic high school program. Utah Scholars is a federally funded program that was with the goal of encouraging academic rigor at the high school level. Several Salt Lake City Schools including the Granite, Jordan, Park City and Prove districts had participating students. Utah was one of 22 states to benefit with a grant of $300,000 to fund the program for two years. Salt Lake City Schools require students to meet state guidelines of 4 years of English, and 3 of math and science to graduate. Those Salt Lake City Schools students in the Utah Scholars program are required to complete 4 years of English, 3 Ѕ of social studies, 3 of science, 3 of math, and 2 of a foreign language. One main incentive is the possibility of grants and scholarships for successful graduates of the program. The program was launched for two reasons. Educators in Salt Lake City Schools and around the nation have noticed a direct correlation between a demanding high school course load and success in both college and college entrance exams - like the SATs. There has also been national concern over the decreasing number of students enrolling in college programs and completing degrees on time. Declining numbers of advanced degrees have been an ongoing concern for Salt Lake City Schools. In 2004 the Utah Foundation reported that the number of bachelor degrees among residents was steadily declining. Less young people were pursuing the degree and Utah schools were 31st in the nation with the 25-34 year old crowd. A 2006 report issued by the US Census Bureau confirmed concerns when it released figures that said only 27% of Utah residents hold bachelors degrees. One reason that this may be a problem in the Salt Lake City Schools is it’s large Mormon population. The famous founders of Brigham Young University encourage their members to marry young and to do missionary work for the (Mormon) Church of Latter Day Saints before beginning their education. Salt Lake City Schools are trying to educate its students on the vast discrepancies in income between those with bachelor’s degrees and those without. The Utah Scholars program is helping them to do that. This past school year the Salt Lake City Schools targeted eighth graders who will enroll in the program next year. These selected students at Salt Lake City Schools will work with mentors from local colleges and counselors in their own schools. Salt Lake City Schools are hopeful that they can graduate another crop of Utah Scholars and turn the trend around.

What you should know about praxis tests

The Praxis test is a rigorous series of tests required to obtain teacher licensure in the United States. Majority of the states (currently 44) in continental U. S. and its jurisdictions require beginning teachers to pass these tests. The Praxis test is also a way for many education agencies to make licensing decisions and it's also used by colleges and universities as part of their qualification requirements for educational programs for teachers. The Praxis test has three categories, each of which corresponds to the development of the pedagogic knowledge and skills of teachers. These are Praxis I, Praxis II and Praxis III. Praxis I is the series of tests that are used for the assessment of a teacher's academic skills. It is required for entry to a training program for teachers. It measures the teacher's knowledge and teaching ability in the three basic skills: reading, writing and mathematics. To take the Praxis I test, a teacher may choose either a paper-based or a computer-based format. Generally, this Praxis series test is taken during the initial stages of a teacher's college career. Praxis II test is used for licensure for entry to the teaching profession and measures a teacher's content knowledge and pedagogic skills through subject assessments. This series of tests are used to assess knowledge in general and specific subjects for K-12 teachers. The Praxis II test has three test sub categories: Subject Assessment, PLT or Principles of Learning and Teaching and Teaching Foundations. The Praxis II is taken as part of the certification and licensing process that is required by many states and professional organizations. Praxis III test is an assessment of a teacher's classroom performance, that is, his or her knowledge and skills as measured within a classroom setting. The test evaluates a teacher's teaching abilities through practice. This involves direct observation, interviews and review of a teacher's documentation including lesson plans. This series of tests are conducted and completed in a classroom setting and consists of numerous assessment criteria involving four interconnected domains. While the Praxis III test is used for licensing decisions by many states and professional agencies, it may not be a requirement for employment decisions, especially on teachers who are already licensed. Where to take the Praxis test Find out first what Praxis test you should take and then get in touch with your state's Department of Education for the test schedules. Some Praxis tests may be taken using a computer while others require you to find a local testing center authorized to administer these tests. Some tests, such as the Praxis III series, require a classroom setting. Check out the Educational Testing Service website ( ets. org) to find out more. To take the Praxis Series test, you can register online at the ETS website or fill out a hard copy of a registration form and send it through mail. The registration forms cannot be downloaded, although you'll find a copy in a Praxis test bulletin, which you can get from Testing Services. Be sure to register before the deadline. You'll need to send out your form so ETS has enough time to send you an admission ticket. You'll need this ticket to know where you'll need to report for testing, what requirements you need to bring, etc. In case you miss the deadline, you can also try to report to your testing location on the day of the Praxis test and try to get seating as a stand by. You can call ETS to find out which test center will be offering the particular Praxis test you have to take.

An overview of the master plan for baltimore schools

On July 1, 2007, Andres Alonso officially became chief executive officer of Baltimore Schools. He will oversee approximately 180 schools and 82,000 students, with the help and guidance of the Baltimore Schools master plan. The master plan is guided by the Baltimore Schools vision, which is clear, desirable, and inspiring: “Accelerating the academic achievement of all students, in partnership with the entire community, to ensure that students have the attitudes, skills, and proficiencies needed to succeed in college and in the 21st century global workforce.” The district believes that achieving this vision is entirely possible by fulfilling the Baltimore Schools mission: “To accelerate student progress through effective implementation of the Baltimore Schools master plan, focusing on quality instruction, managing systems efficiently, and sustaining a culture of excellence.” The Baltimore Schools master plan priorities have been established in accordance with State guidelines and provide the core of the school system's plans for improving the academic achievement of all students. Goals of this master plan as listed below: Goal 1: By 2013-2014, all Baltimore Schools students will reach high standards, at a minimum attaining proficiency or better in reading/language arts, and mathematics. Goal 2: All Baltimore Schools students that have limited English proficiency will become proficient in English and reach high academic standards, at a minimum attaining proficiency or better in reading/language arts and mathematics. Goal 3: By 2005-2006, all core academic subject classes (CAS) will be taught by highly qualified teachers. Goal 4: All students will be educated in learning environments that are safe, drug-free, and conducive to learning. Goal 5: All students will graduate from high school Goal 6: Effective management of systems will support student achievement. Such systems cover accountability, communications with parents, the community, and business partners. Baltimore Schools recognize that making a difference for its students is more than simply writing a check. Many businesses provide assistance to schools in a variety of ways including the donation of materials, merchandise and volunteer hours. There is growing evidence that school/business partnerships improve the capacity of individual families, schools and communities. Businesses are thus more willing to support teaching and learning. When students connect school work with the world of work, they are motivated to learn. There are several ways that businesses can help out Baltimore Schools: mentoring, tutoring, becoming a guest reader, giving monetary contributions, and donating school supplies. However, donations can range from pencils to computers; books to playground equipment; flowers to furniture. Volunteering in Baltimore Schools, offering internships to Baltimore Schools students, or joining the staff as an adjunct faculty member are also ways for businesses to maintain a healthy partnerships with Baltimore Schools. It is also a goal of the district that finances and operations of facilities, transportation, and nutrition services within Baltimore Schools will be effective and efficient. Throughout all of Baltimore Schools, students, parents, teachers, and administrators have many opportunities to experience the positive changes that implementing this master plan can offer.

Ballet shoes canvas or leather

Ballet shoes are an important purchase for the beginning ballet student and many elements will affect your purchase decision. To make the correct choice, you will need to listen carefully to your instructor and follow their advice about which shoes to buy. If you are not taking ballet lessons, and cannot seek advice from an instructor or a more advanced ballet dancer, then you will benefit from reading up on the types of ballet shoes available and appropriate for a beginning ballet dancer. Your ballet class instructor may have requested you purchase a certain type of ballet shoe. Many instructors will provide very clear instructions on which shoe to buy – including the brand, color and style. Fortunately, instructors will often also advise where the best locations are for finding and purchasing your ballet shoes. If your instructor makes specific requests about the type of ballet shoes they prefer you buy, then by all means, follow their directions. Your choices of ballet shoes is virtually unlimited, if your instructor has made no particular requests, and you will need to take your status as a beginning ballet dancer into consideration. This means you should only consider purchasing basic ballet shoes, not pointe shoes. Your instructor will advise students when they can advance to pointe ballet shoes. You need to be mindful of two things as you make your ballet shoe choice: the shoe's sole and how the shoe is held on the foot. Genuine leather soles are preferable for ballet shoes. Imitation leather will not hold up well to dancing and will cause you to need replacement shoes sooner. One thing to be aware of with leather soles is that they can stick to the floor, especially when used by heavier dancers. Sticking to the floor means your shoes can wear out more quickly, and can mean the chance for injury. If you encounter this problem, consider purchasing canvas shoes, which do not stick to the floor. Ballet shoes are kept on the foot either by an elastic strap sewn to the top opposite sides of the shoe, or by ribbons wound around the ankle and lower leg and tied in place. Check with your instructor to see if they have a preference of elastic straps or ribbons. Normally, practice shoes, and shoes for children, have elastic straps. Shoes with ribbons are usually reserved for recitals. Finally, when you have chosen your ballet shoes -- try them on! They should be comfortable to walk in, of course, but to be certain they are best for you and dancing, try several ballet steps in them as well. If you feel any discomfort at all, try another pair of shoes in a different size or brand. Ballet shoes are essentially slippers, they should be completely comfortable when you are walking or dancing. The idea of ‘breaking in’ does not apply with ballet shoes, so do not purchase shoes thinking this will happen. You need ballet shoes that fit correctly without abrading your feet anywhere.