Odds are you know Amelia Earhart, Rosa Parks, Susan B. Anthony or Clara Barton. But have you heard of Elizabeth Cady Stanton, an early pioneer in the suffragette movement; Janet Rankin, the first women elected to Congress; Memphis Minnie (born Lizzie Douglas) who became one of the top blues guitarists in the 1920s, through the 1950s or Delores Huerta, who co-founded the United Farm Workers Association with Cesar Chavez.
March is National Women’s History Month, with the goal of making us more aware of the women who changed American history, business and society. However, just like the right to vote, the push for a month recognizing the accomplishments of women took many years to become reality.
The seeds of the observation began in 1979, with roots in American education system. The week of March 8, 1978 was designated as Women’s History Week by the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County (California) Commission on the Status of Women. Dozens of schools planned special events and over 100 community women participated in special presentations in classrooms. The finale of the week was a celebratory parade and program held in downtown Santa Rosa.
A year later, other communities across the U.S. joined the celebration and agreed to support an effort for a National Women’s History Week, which was formally proclaimed by President Jimmy Carter in 1980.
Departments of education in many states adopted the celebration and encouraged curriculum to support the effort. Within a few years, thousands of schools and communities were celebrating National Women’s History Week. In 1987, Congress officially designated March as National Women’s History Month. This year’s theme is “Working to Form a More Perfect Union: Honoring Women in Public Service and Government.”
Since it gained traction in schools and classrooms, California Casualty’s education guest author Alan Haskvitz has assembled this list of some of the best resources for celebrating Women’s History Month for teachers and students:
Women in history is a topic that is rich in high interest stories and Common Core related standards. Possible integrated lessons can stress diversity, art, history, science and more. Just as importantly is the fact that the stories are compelling and often show the human spirit at its best, when facing challenges that require strength of character as well as determination.
With such a diverse range of options, I like having my students share their reading and research to cover more facts and also to motivate them to read about those women they may never have heard of before. Here is a list of 100 famous women; some may not be appropriate for every grade level, but there are enough to make for some excellent compare and contrast essays. Another fun project, after the presentations and to increase interest and listening skills, is to have the students collect facts about some of these and play 20 questions to see if they can guess who the name of the woman from the clues.
About the Author: Alan Haskvitz has taught for 45 years and has credentials in special education, gifted education school administration, and all core subjects. He has been inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame and was chosen by Reader’s Digest as a Hero in Education. Contact him at calcascares@gmail.com
Wouldn’t it be nice if we could all attend the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas? We could see the vendors showing off new interactive watches, the latest in cell phones, driverless cars, home WiFi based appliances and new technological wonders that can be applied in schools.
Yes, it would be nice to get super-geeked and tech-overloaded, but it’s just not practical. The second half of the year has just begun and there are classes to manage, tests to grade and new projects to challenge students.
If you are an educator, there is good news; Leila Meyer, an education tech writer went to the show. Here are the 10 Products From CES that she predicts will have the most potential to make it to the classroom:
DAQRI Smart Helmet – designed for industrial workers, the helmet brings a mixed reality interface with the latest technology for 4D virtual reality applications that can be used in the classroom
Kodak’s Super 8 Revival camera – designed for a new generation of video and film makers that has many applications for students and lessons, using actual film to deliver texture and vivid color, but with a digital transfer once it’s processed
Klaxoon Cross-Device Learning Platform – Klaxoon developed a collection of tools designed to support online, interactive learning activities for any mobile device using private WiFi and Cloud storage platforms
Samsung Galaxy TabProS – a two-in-one tablet that is small, lightweight and shareable in the classroom
Lenovo AirClass Interactive Virtual Classroom – the name says it all, a dashboard that is accessible for teachers and students that can track a student’s engagement utilizing emotion-analyzing software
ASUS C202 Chromebook for Education – specially designed for the abuse that comes from multiple hands in the classroom, it features wraparound rubber bumpers with reinforced corners, spill-resistant keyboard, scratch-resistant finish and shockproof solid-state drive
Panasonic Rug Speakers – a prototype unveiled that can be built into the carpet with controllers that can direct sound toward or away from specific people with potential for libraries and informal learning spaces
Hanvon Pentech ERT Technology – a pen that works with all-in-one touchscreen TVs, the pen uses electromagnetic resonance touch (ERT) technology that gives more accuracy and control when writing or drawing on a touchscreen display
XYZ Steam – 3D printers specifically designed for education with applications for science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEM) courses
XYZmaker – 3D modeling app designed to make 3D printing technology faster and more accessible
But having and using the latest technology for technology’s sake may not get the results many educators desire. It’s important to put it into a context of learning, as the tech-instructor at Meyer Elementary School in Lexington, Michigan found out. Jeff Dahl is teaching technology through various content areas, presenting it as something purposeful, connected to learning and relevant to real-world situations. He recommends:
Making it applicable to other class assignments
Don’t do it alone, collaborate with other educators
Embrace discomfort because students adapt quickly
Apply the SAMR Model with four levels
Substitution – technology acts as a direct tool substitute with no functional change
Augmentation – technology acts as a direct tool substitute with functional improvement
Modification – technology allows for significant task redesign
Redefinition – technology allows for the creation of new tasks previously inconceivable
Put tech integration in action
While there are many benefits to integrating new technology into the classroom, often times, the cost is out of reach for many school districts. That’s why California Casualty created the $2,500 Academic Award, to help educators purchase the materials and gadgets they need to help their students. Give your students the advantage they deserve, apply now for the California Casualty Academic Award at www.calcasacademicaward.com.
Every day they work hard to plant seeds in vibrant minds, helping grow a brighter future for California. They don’t do it for money or glory, and they certainly don’t do it alone. Their dedication is matched by supportive staffs and schools led by forward thinking administrators who push the envelope to incorporate technology and new ways of teaching.
We realize that all too often educators are the unsung heroes working hard to make sure our children excel. They give their time, encouragement, and frequently their own funds to make sure their students learn and achieve. Their reward is the satisfaction that they made a difference in a child’s life.
That commitment is embodied by Daniel Jocz, nominated as California’s candidate for the 2016 National Teacher of the Year. Mr. Jocz realizes that incorporating 21st century technology, like YouTube, in his high school social studies classes makes the content relevant, rigorous and engaging. Mr Jocz has taught for 11 years at the Downtown Magnets High School in Los Angeles where he is a department chair and associated student body advisor. Those who know Mr. Jocz say he instills a sense of success and pride that students take with them throughout their day and beyond school hours.
Another educator who digs deep to make lessons applicable and memorable is Tara Buford, an elementary school teacher in Escondido, California. She has a passion for learning and is committed to helping every child in her classroom. As a “life-long learner” herself, Tara wants to expand opportunities to make lessons fun and engaging for all of her students. “If I’m not having fun they’re not having fun,” she said.
Tara estimates that she spends as much as $1,000 a year of her own funds to make sure her students have the tools and materials they need to succeed. Her students benefitted in 2015 when she received one of California Casualty’s $2,500 Academic Awards. Tara was able to purchase electronic learning systems and games geared to preparing her classes for the Common Core curriculum.
California Casualty values the contributions of educators like Daniel and Tara. While we might remember a favorite teacher that motivated us, few of them get the public accolades they deserve.
That’s why we’ve teamed up for a second year to be the presenting sponsor of the California Department of Education’s (CDE) School Recognition Program that honors educators who inspire students to succeed, recognizes schools that continually show high achievement and celebrates the support staff that provide the backbone for quality education. California Casualty’s support makes possible the following 2016 California School Recognition Programs:
Gold Ribbon Schools – honoring exemplary public elementary schools which demonstrate significant gains in narrowing the achievement gap
Teachers of the Year – recognizing exemplary teachers and their contribution to quality education
Classified School Employee of the Year – highlighting those who symbolize the profession’s commitment to education
California Green Ribbon School Awards – recognizing schools that accomplish great things in the areas of sustainability and health
California Blue Ribbon Schools – celebrating schools that promote and support the improvement of education
With a relationship that spans 65 years, we understand that great teachers often need help to accomplish great things. That’s why we do more than just provide the CTA Auto and Home Insurance Program; we give back to the communities we serve in meaningful ways that have real impact on their lives. These programs include the $2,500 California Casualty Academic Award, that helps offset the money that educators spend of their own funds for classroom supplies and equipment; the California Casualty Thomas R. Brown Athletics Grants, given to public high schools in California that demonstrate the greatest need for their sporting programs; and the Impact Teen Drivers “Create Real Impact” contest, that awards students and schools that design the best interactive messages to prevent distracted and reckless driving – the number one killer of teens today.
Teachers and support staff do make a difference. Their devotion to our children is why the CDE’s School Recognition Program is so important, and why California Casualty is proud to be a sponsor.
There are so many great resources for teachers. The problem is trying to read all of them for the best ideas. We are making it easy for you with this list of the 11 classroom hacks that can help you reach kids, organize the classroom and make your life at school easier.
Discourage test cheating by putting version numbers on each question sheet and tell students to write the version they have on their answer sheet (hint, although there are version numbers, they are all the same – but nobody has to know that but you)
Pre-empt excuses for missing homework by holding a “best excuse writing” lesson (then you’ll be able to say, “I already heard that one”)
Employ a “Too Noisy” app that shows a colorful graph with a digital noise meter to alert you and your students when the class has exceeded acceptable noise levels
We know we’ve barely scratched the surface of great classroom/teacher ideas and we’d love to hear about some that you use.
Here are two more resources from California Casualty that can help educators:
Let us help make setting up your classroom a little easier on your wallet with a $2,500 Academic Award at www.calcasacademicaward.com.
If you hate going into the run-down teacher’s lounge at your school, make sure to enter our $7,500 School Lounge Makeover® contest at www.schoolloungemakeover.com.
The face of education is changing with the rapid acceleration of smartphones, learning pads and computers into schools. While new electronic learning options open exciting opportunities for engagement and creative possibilities, there is a raging debate about its effectiveness. Many are also warning about some negative implications.
Edutopia contributors have been writing about technology integration for years. Their website has a dedicated section about the adoption of technology in the classroom and how it is changing learning. But judging by the point and counterpoint, there’s much more still to be decided. Here are some of the pros and cons to merging electronics into the classroom.
Pros
Multiple studies show advanced learning systems can enhance student engagement and motivation. A Stanford Center for Opportunity Policy in Education study found when implemented properly, the use of tablets and computers has produced significant gains in student achievement while boosting engagement. One of the paper’s conclusions is that while all students benefit from technology, the greatest impact was on those most at-risk.
Using computers and tablets in class has shown to improve student cooperation and collaboration. It has also created a new approach to class time called, “blended learning” – combining digital content with face-to-face discussions and activities. An NEA Today article discussed the pros and cons of allowing bring your own device policies being introduced in many school districts to aid the “flipped” classroom strategy.
Other noted advantages of technology in the classroom are:
Easier communication with parents and students
Faster turn-around on papers and grading
Quicker access to information
Addition of learning games and other activities for students
Introducing students to careers and technology based applications for the future
Integrating the apps and devices children are already using into learning and research opportunities
Many experts say there is no going back on advancing technology, and many educators are convinced it has opened new doors for teaching and engagement.
Cons
The other side of the debate warns that unbridled use of technology in the classroom can dumb-down student learning, waste taxpayer dollars, and leave some teachers and students lost in a maze of technological difficulties leading to lack of adaptation.
First, there’s the expense. Many school districts have jumped headfirst in the technology pool without thinking about the effects. A classic example is Los Angeles Unified School District’s $100 million dollar iPad fiasco. The deal was scrapped after issues surfaced with late delivery, incomplete software and teacher complaints about inadequate time and support to integrate the systems. Some experts warn that many school districts and administrators are allocating money for technology because they believe they have to, not necessarily because they need it. Also, many districts don’t factor in the cost of updates and how quickly new technology becomes outdated.
Another problem was highlighted in an article by technology writer Benjamin Herold, which found students using digital readers retained less information. They were more likely to skim the texts and were more distracted by links and other digital extras than students who read from a book or magazine. Herold advises that there needs to be a better understanding of comprehension issues before e-readers are mainstreamed in the classroom.
Other authors have raised concerns about cyberbullying and students who may seem savvy, but are actually not as adept they appear to be in using their devices for deeper learning and research applications.
And in a recent study, educator Katie Davis and Harvard professor Howard Gardner found the reliance on apps by today’s youth may be harming creativity and could inhibit reflective thinking, which they say affects the ability to build empathy and understanding of others.
Other problems with technology:
Wasted time with connectivity and downloading or buffering issues (insufficient band-width)
Teachers and students frustrated by inadequate technology support
Lack of training and understanding of how to integrate technology into lesson plans and learning
Incompatibility with existing systems
Not enough computers, laptops or tablets for all students
Unreal expectations that technology will improve student performance
So, what is the solution? A recent summit of top educators (including 2014 National Teacher of the Year Sean McComb), ed-tech advocates and policy makers developed six key points to help make integration of technology in the classroom more successful:
Allocate more time for professional development with technology
Reimagine the ecosystem and the offerings for professional development
Move from 20th– to 21st– century training
Change the school culture to encourage trust and experimentation
Redefine leadership, recognizing teachers and students may have more technological expertise
Create meaningful mentorship opportunities
While it appears nobody can stop the advance of new learning systems, many are urging decision makers, administrators and teachers to take a long look at what e-readers, laptops and tablets can do and to understand the implications of improper implementation.
And whether it’s for tablets, electronic learning games, or new books and pencils, California Casualty is ready to help with the $2,500 Academic Award. The funds can be used for any classroom supplies and materials that will benefit students. The information and application can be found at www.calcasacademicaward.com.
My name is Donn Harrison and I have been a member of California Causality for years. I have also taught school for over 25 years. This past May I was awarded Top Teacher on the Live with Kelly and Michael Show. I was asked by California Casualty to write a few articles to teachers and members of the California Casualty family. While this article is directed to educators it certainly applies to all careers.
As the beginning of the school year washes over us like a cold shower on an August morning, hopefully you have established a routine. You know your students by name, and you’ve interacted with some kids so many times that you say them in your sleep. Here are several “keeps” I use as I go through the year that help me to be a better educator, parent and spouse. Hopefully some of these may help you not only survive the year but thrive!
Keep Ahead
There are so many expectations on teachers today. You are a shoe tying, data collecting, problem solving, group leading, question asking educator. All these expectations are heaped upon you and you have to keep ahead. There are several ways to do this. When your principal announces that all teachers have to turn in something, get a jump on it. Try to at least knock it out that day. Getting a jump on it will give you time later.
Keeping ahead may even happen at home. I get all of my clothes ready for the week and put them on hangers on Sunday night. There is nothing better than grabbing an already ironed outfit on in the morning. This is a great way to keep ahead and avoid a hectic morning!
Keep Grounded
No matter how crazy my day is I save time for a hobby. I love to bike. So every day I save at least 45 minutes to get out and get some fresh air. It centers me and relaxes me. You may crochet, read, jog, walk or jam out in the car on the way home, but take time and make this a priority in your daily routine.
Keep your priorities
You can’t get everything done in a day. You have to see a task coming at you and be able to say, “this can wait.” You need to find out when someone expects it and get ahead if you can. Some things you will miss and forget to do. That happens. Apologize and move on. As a firefighter I am able to prioritize pretty well. On a fire scene, I know that gas and electricity needs to be turned off when we arrive at a structure fire. The same goes at school. The scraped knee at recess needs a band aid before the zipper on the coat needs fixed. See tasks coming at you and prioritize them.
Keep an open mind
Education changes year to year. Changes can drown you and make you seem like an antique when you fight them. Keep an open mind and embrace change and spin it with your own unique teaching style. In my career, I have seen policies from not leaving children behind, to racing to them to the top to making their core common. Each time I tried to embrace the change and spin it in a positive way and make it my own unique system.
I hope you have a great year and some of these tips help you make teaching fun for you and your kids!
