Happy New Year

Beautiful babies, learning how to ride a bike, baking grandma's favorite pie, earning a drivers license, that engagement ring, prayers before each meal, shoveling the snow for a neighbor, beautiful sunsets, a call from an old friend, surprise parties, a new puppy, A's on a report card, blowing out candles on a birthday cake, fishing with your pals, making the baseball team, washing the car for dad, learning how to tie your shoes, lemonade on the porch, that coach who really cares........oh yes!

May you and your family have many days
filled with joy in the coming year. 
I know every day is a gift.

For Every Child

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answer-sheet/wp/2014/12/24/a-2015-wish-list-for-every-u-s-child/

The things on this list

from a campaign sponsored by the

Broader, Bolder Approach to Education

are essential for our customers, 

all young people and their families.

That means each child.
Santa would never favor one
boy or girl over another.
Neither should we.  

Broader, Bolder Approach to Education

http://www.boldapproach.org/

You're Invited

Top 10 Reasons to Come to "Fine Arts Night"

 10.  The best time of a day is spent creating.                               
  9.   Read to kids because it's the start of wonderful projects.

  8.   The janitor is the art teacher's best buddy.

  7.   There's never enough space to hang up every picture.

  6.   Art should be on the refrigerator once it "goes home."

  5.   More beauty's found in the imagination than anywhere.

  4.   Keep asking......because then the teacher will let us paint.

  3.   Great artists autograph their work.

  2.   Showing off art unabashedly, is a great thing!

  1.   We believe in our young artists.

Join us at Parkside on Thursday
November 20th from 6:00 to 7:30 P.M.  

Mrs. Rachel Tewell and pupils from 
Lawrenceville High School have helped
make this event even more special!

Refreshments will be served,

compliments of 

The Lawrence County Arts Council 

Dear Ed

November first had arrived, game day.  We spied crimson leaves clinging to tree branches,  knowing that they wouldn't last much longer.  It was the kind of Saturday where fall foliage becomes windswept, ending up somewhere in a smoky burn-pile.  


It was cold yet that sparkling cornflower sky was splendid.  Sharp winds swirled, zealously lifting the Indian banners that adorn the road from L.H.S. to Loeb Field.  The crisp red and white flags were quite a site, beckoning fans as they migrated to the sports complex for the 3:00 P.M. kick-off. 



Early in the week the locals began parking vehicles in a tight ring at the edge of the field.  Some were undoubtedly preparing for tail-gate parties, anxious to find a good location.  One family had different plan.  They secured a spot near the 50 yard line with a car, and it turned out to be a good move.  That spot was reserved for a proud 84 year-old who couldn't fathom missing The Tribe in their 2014 play-off bid.  Who could blame her?  Indeed the young man slated to start the game for L.H.S. as quarterback was her great, great grandson. 

 What does a small town football event look and feel  like?  It's a noisy, spirited, curious collection of so many individuals.   There's countless hours of preparation, of practice and planning with the young people who "take the stage" when the day finally arrives.   

Ed, the complex was alive with folks of all  ages.  Drawn together were kids and cousins, grandparents, friends. Fans mingled with the band or the cheerleaders.  Members of the media were everywhere.  What is it
about making a little history that creates
such a hullabaloo? Perhaps it's a journey of
pride and purpose, success none shall deny. 




Indeed, what fuels such excitement or
prepares us to stand a little taller......
while setting our sights a little higher?
I think parents or those who love kids are
the spark, those with unmistakable hopes
or  dreams.  When it's time to perform,
all eyes are on the young people.

Anticipation of what's possible when 
you give your best effort, it's a relentless 
challenge.  That chance for personal success,
indeed one that's shared with others.....it's 
brilliant!  It is that goal worth every shred of
time or effort necessary, in making it a reality.  


Yes, the Indians played for us that afternoon
wearing red and white "home" uniforms.  

They didn't disappoint themselves,
their coaches, or the many fans at the
sports complex.  Folks listening to the broadcast of the game on WAKO Radio
too, were jubilant.  More importantly
these young people earned "another
day"  with an additional opportunity to
advance in the IHSA football playoffs.


Yes, the Indians made history on
November first.  They a handed a defeat
to the visiting Nokomis Redskins, an accomplishment marking the
first post-season win in over
a century of football at L.H.S.  


There's no better feeling than
to recognize it came about
as a result of teamwork.

The beauty of that Saturday afternoon
at Loeb Field? When a group of young
athletes came together, and acted as one.

#RollTribe

     

Together

https://www.choiceliteracy.com/articles-detail-view.php?id=2109

There can be strong progress in a child's learning when the teacher guiding pupils is inspired.  That boost of confidence in
the mind of an educator can translate into positive experiences with kids.  I know
this for sure:  things will get a lot better!  

Those genuine experiences with pupils
may not be plentiful early in the day. 
Indeed they may not even exist early
in the school year, or even in the
career of a young professional. 
You simply have to be patient.  

  Professionals seeking ideas to reach kids, improve the climate in class, or hone
their craft are facing real obstacles in
their learning community every day.

The answers one seeks to solve challenges
may be closer than you think.  Good suggestions abound in the minds and
hearts of other teachers--your colleagues.  

Reach out, listen, and learn from

others who have wisdom or insight

that provides you with suggestions,
insight-- indeed that necessary inspiration.  

Then take a "test drive" with your kids.

 Subsequently, you may discover fewer
potholes in your relationship with
youngsters and learning resumes.
That after all, is the proper focus
for youngsters in your classroom.  

I Can't Wait

 

The school year is still in its "tender stage."

I'm getting used to a new schedule but as
of right now, it doesn't feel too familiar.   

Hmm.....I still cannot remember

first names of all my customers!

That's a dilemma, so I just

ask the children to "remind" me
what they prefer to be called at school.    

It's important to be positive, welcoming,

and observant with all kids in class.

Showing youngsters we really care, while

making these early days of the school

year go smoothly is so important. 

I'm not sure I have a handle on my game!

If as an adult learner I feel this way,

then what about the youngsters in my care?

What about the other professionals in
the building, who are all negotiating
this new school year as well? 

I know what "success" looks and feels like
for students in school, at least that's my

ultimate goal for our learning community.

So tomorrow morning, we'll start
a new week together....all of us.   
I may be nervous, but can remain calm
in classes.  I may be unsure, but can stay positive.  Surely the road to a respectful,
safe school experience isn't too far away. 

Why?  Because as adults we're capable of
understanding our roles, and
intelligent enough to communicate clearly.

We know that time plays an important

role in developing relationships with others. 
 

Let's aim toward important goals we've

laid out for our kids with confidence, because they're always watching.  Young people  constantly "read" the signals that
we as adults, put out there.  The parents and families of our students are doing the same,

in this early part of a new school year.

So my customers and I will smile together
more often this week.  I'll get a better handle
on their names and more importantly, on
their needs!  Good things do take time.   

Our routines will be more comfortable,
and my pupils will grow more confident.   

I can't wait! 

  

 

Thank You

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=veuSc9ZhpPY

A new school year's just beginning for
many, while a Tennessee educator's
embarking upon retirement,
after teaching for 41 years.   

Cole Elementary was her home and this new retiree is first grade educator Nancy Flexner.  

I know teachers are an essential link in
success stories for young people.  

Many who cared about Nancy made sure
that she'd be recognized for the important

impact this woman made for her pupils.

Those who could travel to Tennessee, community members, and colleagues at
Cole Elementary gathered secretly in her
classroom last May for a surprise "farewell."

Thank you, thank you Ms. Flexner.
Your example is extraordinary

and we all need that in our lives. 

Enjoy the celebration in the link above
but thanks-in-advance to all those who
are going to do a "Nancy Flexner"
this school year for their kids!

Effective Classroom Management

http://corkboardconnections.blogspot.com/2014/06/5-common-mistakes.html

 

Be Clear

Deal Now, Not Later

Individual Expectations

High Student Expectations

Confidence "Plus!"

Connect with Linda Kardamis

Obstacles to Growth

http://www.brainpickings.org/index.php/2014/08/15/john-gardner-failure/

 

"FAILURE" 

Take a cue from the young.
Be eager, be willing to learn.  

Grab opportunities, making
those FAILURES a friend.  For

when we feel like "throwing in the
towel,"it's wise to remember why
we held on for so long in the first place!

 

Just a Little Jump

http://www.sfchronicle.com/news/us/article/Wounded-soldier-to-skydive-with-Maine-first-lady-5678432.php#/0

Saturday while some were working, cleaning
the house, shopping, babysitting, or even mowing a lawn and feeling like any of the above was mundane, Travis Mills was
jumping out of an airplane.  

This in and of itself isn't too spectacular
unless you stop to consider that this
gentleman has no limbs, save for the
artificial ones this veteran's learned to use through lengthy months of rehabilitation.  

His personal history reveals that 

Army Staff Sgt. Travis Mills along with
a team from the 82nd Airborne were
on assignment in Afghanistan,
substantiating reports related to
verification of explosive devices. 

It was during his third tour of duty
back in April, 2012.  Just a typical day
for this team except that when Travis
dropped a backpack on the ground,
the sudden impact was enough to

detonate explosives buried below.

As anyone can imagine, the event changed
this young man's life dramatically.

Note-to-self: 
"Was I complaining about
anything on Saturday afternoon?  

One thing is clear:  Travis has been
emphatic about
"getting on with his life."
So on August 9th, he was in Maine to raise  awareness and funds for a veteran center
to be located at Fort Kent.  

Incidentally Travis invited the
wife of Maine Governor Paul LePage, to
join him at his parachute adventure. 

 Note-to-self: 
"Bravo Travis, bravo!"  

It's well known that First Lady Ann LaPage
is interested in supporting veterans.  When
the two first met, Mrs. LaPage discovered
that Travis is also passionate about
creating a camp that will benefit
wounded veterans and their families.

      Who could say no?      

Ann admitted that while petrified of
heights, she had to honor his request

Note-to-self:  

"Challenges are not insurmountable."

Watch the two teasing one another 

at Fort Hood, during the recent event:

http://www.wlbz2.com/story/news/local/2014/08/09/mrs-lepage-skydives/13839893/

We initially learn from one another in
very small ways, moments of time that
may seem insignificant at first glance. 

It's only from positions of enlightenment
that we act upon our understandings,
make decisions, and solve problems. 
Yet the process all begins with learning
from others, one simple step at a time.  

I believe this is true with people
of every age, and in all walks of life.  

Perhaps recognizing this, you and I can be
more proactive in supporting kids. 
We'll recognize that everyone continues to
learn and flourish when given the time,
opportunity, and proper nurturing.  

Thank you Travis Mills,
you are a hero that gives me pause.

http://www.travismills.org/

#FridayFun: Let's Dance

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfxB5ut-KTs

"The Making of Baby and Me:"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HxDWoZ8XhmY

If You Are a Teacher

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOT0FBIBqUc&feature=youtu.be

This video makes me think.

Created over a dozen years ago

for a teacher preparation course, 

it contains a message that's as
significant today as it was then.   

As professionals, do we mirror these actors?  

Do we support each other, and continual growth within our learning community?  

Are there parents in our school who

   want their children to be "left behind?"

It's about the kids and learning opportunities.  

So let us take on the many challenges

together, for it is within us to succeed.  

 

After all, we all take on that
responsibility of "being teachers"
because someone is always watching.

Genuine

If ever you get the opportunity to be in the company of those who truly love family and nurture each and every member, pay close attention.  



Lessons learned from them are insights you'll want to emulate.  For each moment you "drink in" their specific and routine manner of dealing with the sweet and sour moments in life, it's unique wisdom. 


St. Francisville, Illinois is the place Mr. William C. Padgett has called "home" for over 80 years.  He and his wife Phyllis married there in 1952, and chose to raise seven children within that community.  Known to most people as Bill, the many endeavors he tackled included establishing and oil producing and drilling company, serving as both an alderman and mayor, and helping create and serve on the township Fire Department as a fireman and trustee for over 40 years.   

To many he cut a familiar figure when we saw either he or Phyllis at events and programs at
St. Francisville Elementary School.  I became a member of that staff right out of college, employed as a second grade teacher.   



Initially unfamiliar with all the new families and faces, I learned that this tall, quiet man was the father of several children.  At the time two of his youngsters, Rod and Amie were both in the upper grades of the school.  Later I discovered that he and Phyllis were the grandparents of two siblings I had in my room:  Gabe and Valarie.  Indeed Rachel, his youngest child was also one of my second grade students. 

I soon recognized that Bill Padgett was ready, willing and able to lend a hand if you needed help with a project.  So was Phyllis and other members of their family.  I vividly remember he and his son Tom running plows and shoveling sidewalks around St. Francisville Elementary whenever wintry weather blanketed town with ice and snow.  If class was "in" they were on-the-job before dawn, during many frigid mornings.  


When the St. Francisville parent group known as C.A.R.E.  organized anything for school, the Padgetts volunteered to help.   No task was too mundane...... were it baking treats, taking tickets, or cleaning up in the gym after a ball game.  If there was a musical program or a Spelling Bee that was important, the Padgetts were in attendance.  I know the example Bill set for his family is an essential ingredient in the personal goals they've all established for themselves.   



There's no secret to the power of honest work, fair dealings with others, and pride in your community.  He understood that it's possible to make a positive difference for others despite the challenges that often thwart the efforts of all of us, one time or another.  Throughout the years and among his acquaintances, so many people would tell you they were were genuinely effected by or thankful for Bill's belief in them.....for his support.  For many, an inspiring and tenacious spirit stands out as one of the Mr. Padgett's unmistakable gifts.



I recall one spring many years ago, a colleague at the school unexpectedly lost her husband.  As a close-knit staff, everyone in our learning community wanted to show support for the widow.  However the timing of her husband's visitation and funeral was right in the middle of the afternoon, on a school day.  Apparently there was some discussion among the C.A.R.E. group members and they offered their assistance.  



Of course there was no question, no hesitation.  Bill and Phyllis were among the volunteers who agreed to step into classrooms, enabling any teacher wishing to leave the building for the visitation to do just that.  It was a good faith gesture that speaks to me even these many years later.  

Did you know the Padgett children surprised their parents with this "early" Christmas gift several years ago?  I understand they both loved it and visitors to their home can see it displayed prominently on the front lawn.  Indeed Bill along with his soul mate and bride Phyllis celebrated 62 years of marriage just this year, on Sunday July 6th. 

His beloved family lost him just days ago on July 10th, which happened to be Bill's birthday.  What I'll fondly remember about the man is that while he was dreaming, working, and organizing things, life offered its own "push-and pull."  The circumstances surrounding his efforts on behalf of family, friends, and community didn't always turn out as Bill would have envisioned......yet the tall gentleman from St. Francisville didn't flinch. 



He used each twist and turn that life granted him to grow, strengthen his character, and steadily move forward.  Those of us witnessing individuals such as he are forever blessed by their spirit and unique example.  Above all, Bill loved and nurtured each member of his family.  I'll  treasure that above all else when I remember him.  Thank you Mr. Padgett.    

Priority

 Parents and educators:

"Make an effort

to encourage and

make-the-time

in the lives of our young people."

Summer Memories

WRITE FOR LIFE      ~Thursday June 26, 2014

Growing things from the rich, rich earth
My generational symmetry resounds.
From grandma's Victory Garden in wartime
Her fenced-in rows of pumpkins and corn
To relish upon a table, and share with many more.
From dad's backyard plot on Seventh Street
Staked peppers, rhubarb, and green beans
To relish upon a table, and share with many more.
For now in my summery plot of dark rich soil
You'll find herbs, tomatoes, and flowers galore
To relish upon a table, and share with many more. ~Rose West



I recall that both my grandmother and her son, my father were excellent cooks who also spent hours in the garden.  They proudly cultivated beautiful and delicious produce. As much as the two of them loved digging in the dirt, they relished sharing or giving the vegetables away to friends.

Why not introduce the craft and history of
Victory Gardens with children?  It may just
be the beginning of  new, satisfying traditions! 

 

 http://www.classroomvictorygarden.org/garden-videos.html

One for the Ages

http://m.mlb.com/video/v33908449/phistl-101yearold-tosses-out-the-first-pitch

101-year-old Cardinals fan Rosemary Depler  threw out the first pitch at Busch Stadium
on Friday June 20th for her birthday.

 

 A resident of Peoria Illinois, she's cheered
for all eleven of the St. Louis Cardinals'
World Series Championships. 

 

The Philadelphia Phillies ended up defeating the Cardinals that night, but the real winners are Rosemary & the St. Louis organization.

#The First Pitch:  Cardinal Sam
Freeman caught her under-handed throw.

Happy Birthday Rosemary!

  

 

 

Engage Them

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1K2jdjLhbo

Having fun and appreciating new
experiences together is a recipe for success!

Remember.....a bright, meaningful
future won't be the result of
the same thinking that got us
here, to this very moment.

Teach questioning, inquiry, and
problem solving with "grit." Young people
deserve these opportunities so let's do this! 

We can enable children to see

things in new ways.  That's

how meaningful changes occur.

Discover Birds in the Yard

http://birdsintheyard.com/index.html

Photo compliments of Ryan Roush

http://www.old50photography.com/

Discover
Birds in the Yard

I need to somehow get bird-lover extraordinaire
Sharon Sorenson, together with midwest
artist-photographer Mr. Ryan Roush!


She writes my favorite column in the
Evansville Courier and Press newspaper
and he takes the most spectacular pictures!