Presenting Susan Armstrong with Classified Employee of the Month.

Information Regarding Trip to Google in Chicago

On this trip I learned a lot about how to integrate technology into the classroom without technology being the focal point of the classroom.

What excites me about technology is that it brings the real world into the class.  In my daily life technology is integrated as a tool to help enhance what I do and my life.  Very little of what I do whether researching for school board, working in sales for my family, running my business designing websites or helping with Bright Futures doesn't require technology.  It is the world we live in.

I understand that there are some that are skeptical about handing each student in the high school a device of some kind.  However, time and time again with Bright Futures we discuss the issue of leveling the playing field. Some students are fortunate to have parents that are able to provide them with all of the latest technology. However, many don't.  Do we want those students to be one step behind in high school because they aren't able to participate in the tech world?  Absolutely not.

Continued...

   

Board Approves Changes to Conflict of Interest Policy

Many folks are unfamiliar with School Board Policy.  However, it has a large impact on what occurs in our school district.  School Board Policy is much like city ordinances.  It cannot be changed without a vote of the school board and must be followed by all within the district.

Not long ago, I put a permanent link to the Board Policies on my website.  I believe it is important for parents and others in the community to be aware of these policies.  As a board member, I am doing my best to be familiar with them.

Not long after being elected, I learned the district had no policy on family members or spouses supervising each other within our district.  This concerned me for a few reasons:

-First, it offers poor supervision of an employee and lends itself to unsatisfactory performance. The school board votes to renew employment based on the recommendation of each person's supervisor.  We cannot make a sound decision if the recommendation is coming from a spouse or family member.

Continued...

   

Enjoyed a great night at Club 115 (Jefferson Street Campus). They've begun having monthly community meals to allow the students to have a meal with their family, learn cooking skills and responsibility and show off the great work of the Alternative School.

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If you think education is expensive, you should try ignorance.
- Derek Bok

I believe in the power of standing back up.

A mind is like an umbrella - only useful when open. - unknown

College Day!