Okay So What Next?....

Summer....Summer....Summertime...WOOHOO!!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 01:05:00 +0000

I have said it many times before. Summer break is a time that teachers look forwards to just as much as students. I will be the first to admit, if no one else does,...sometimes summer is just a little bit too long for me. I love the rest but June to August with nothing to do...tends to drive me crazy.

So I am going to teach summer school. It's a month long, just enough time to earn extra money and still enjoy July and most of August. I am still in school adding authorizations to my credential. Got myself in over my head with extra duty this year. I will NOT do that next year. It's not a matter of needing extra money. It's a matter of killing idle time. I don't do well with down time, but my health needs attention. When someone says they are too busy to exercise DON'T take that for granted. Maybe in some cases there is truth to that statement. My days were 12+ hours long. Some teachers say that in order to keep teaching, and maintain their sanity they need the summer. I say in order to keep teaching and maintain my sanity I need my personal time, which I don't have right now.

Will I always be a student? I certainly hope not. Don't get me wrong I want to be a lifelong learner, so long as it doesn't interfere with my LIFE!!!... Still haven't taken the time to schedule my surgery. Not having any more kids....but still? Going under the knife means recovery time. Maybe next summer?

I wanna run, and work on my calligraphy...think I am going to pay for a private tutor at an art school to advance my calligraphy. That sounds so fun. I wanna take sewing lessons too...I sew, but haven't in a few years. My daughter and I are going to San Diego in July too...

I love the life of a teacher. Many rewards, both in the classroom and out. If I only have moments of sanity I am having one right now. I have been in the workforce for over 20 years. For those of you just starting...keep searching for your niche. It is out there. You will be rewarded if you keep looking. It's like buried treasure. You'll find it.

Summer...summer....summer time!!!!!

Congratulations Class of 2014. I will miss you. Keep doing wonderful things.

Lace Up Black Girl....It's ON!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Sat, 05 Apr 2014 19:43:00 +0000

I hope I get out of bed in the morning? It is really touch starting over again. It's not an excuse when I say I have a full schedule, but it is safe to say that may never change, so I have to figure out how to fit it all in. Death will come whether I have time for it or not. Maybe I can improve my quality of life by being as active, happy, and healthy as I can be before it (the imminent) gets here. I decided to find a way to hold myself accountable for getting things done by keeping a written record of my progress. This is already starting to look kinda boring, but it is good outlet for me (the writing). I like reading experiences from others regarding how they made major changes or strides in their lives in order to overcome a hurdle.

I got hurt almost a year ago and lost the momentum to run and gained weight again. I say again because it has been a battle my whole life. Today I walk around, hiding in jackets always feeling bloated and uncomfortable. Truthfully, who am I hiding from? How do I hide all this person?

I want to run, but my right knee won't let me. I have to tone my body from head to toe or running is just going to eat away my fat and muscle (according to some studies) which will not help my runner's knee. Plus I don't want to be a flabby runner...I don't think anyone wants that?

I love the idea of getting out there and hitting the pavement. I really miss that freedom. My patellofemoral injury demands that I build the muscles around my knees and the biggest challenge is that I will have to continue to do so (FOREVER) or I will never be successful at running. So the long and short of it...I have to dedicate time to conditioning and building muscle in order to get out there and "pound the pavement" and I haven't been able to do that successfully.

So I paid for a bunch of races, simple stuff a few 5ks. So far I haven't shown up to two and tomorrow is the third. I haven't done any training, but I refuse to lose more money because I am struggling with scheduling and motivation. I am a little embarrassed. I haven't seen any of my friends from my running club in ages...but I have like 3 or 4 more races over the next few months. I could have used that money to buy shoes...both races two entries lost...that like....a nice pair of boots or something....

I gotta walk this one out...with my daughter who is also a reclusive reluctant hates to leave home...both of us will be out of our comfort zones, but at least we will have each other.

Run BLACK GIRL RUN!!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Mon, 25 Nov 2013 02:19:00 +0000

I was never an athlete in high school...never encouraged to be one, so I wasn't. My shoulders are weak. Can't really throw a ball with any precision, could never play softball, not with my bad eyes...couldn't distinguish the difference between that tiny, white ball, and the big, blue sky. I loved basketball, but I can't shoot. It was always a good idea for me to pass the ball and fast before I did something wrong. I always hated playing sports with the boys too. I am short, and easy to knock over.....I would just freeze, too afraid of getting hurt.

I learned several years ago that I could run, but I am accident prone (okay maybe not accident prone...just back then untrained). I was a walker. The faster I walked, the faster I got...until one day I just took off running....and didn't stop...for about 4 or 5 months until I ran myself into a knee injury. I had no idea what I was doing and I was wearing the wrong shoes...didn't even know what type of shoes I needed...so that ended... 8 or 9 years ago.

So after nearly a decade goes by I started again. This time I did it right. I read books, my daughter and I picked out the perfect shoes for flat footed runners, and I got out there, walking first...then eventually running....until I ran the soles down in my new shoes, and had to buy new ones. Well to say the least, bought the wrong shoe, and my right knee started hurting again...eventually to the point where I had to give in a see a doctor, who sent me to a PT, who stated..."You need to let your knee heal." What was supposed to be a three month break, (giving me time to strengthen the muscles around my knees), turned into six.

Today I ran for the first time since this summer when the PT told me to lay off for a little while. It was awful...I wasn't in any pain...that was the only good part. I am just so out of shape and practice. I expected my breathing to be labored, and for me to be a sweaty mess when it was all over. Well none of that happened. Instead, my legs where like led. I couldn't lift them up. I should have, at some point, just stopped and walked. As slow as I ran I could have beat myself walking, but I ran anyway....a 15 minute mile. Now I have never really been very fast. My best time was just under 9 minutes. My average 10-12 minutes...depending on the day and the conditions (you know stuff like - had I had a nightcap the night before with dinner - was I rested enough - was my knee hurting).

I can say for absolute certain that the strength building exercises, using resistance bands to build up the muscles around my knees worked. I have patellofemoral syndrome (runner's knee). Truth is I will always have it. Today I had no pain, but a tingling (like a reminder) in my knee. I will continue to strengthen, stretch, and condition the knee. I am adding cycling to my routine too. I am excited that I got through the run with no swelling or pain. I love running, and although I may never run marathons, I am perfectly happy running for me. When things were going good I was running an average of 3 days a week, 2 to 3 miles each time (like my own 5ks minus the t shirt and crowds). That's good enough for me...I do plan on running 5ks from time to time no doubt. Hey, I might even throw in an occasional 10k now and then. Don't know what I would do if I couldn't run....

No Parent Should Ever Face Burying Their Own Child...

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 03:26:00 +0000

Death is something I have dealt with before. By the time I was 34 years old I had lost both parents, and both sets of grandparents. My father had been sick for a few years. Knowing how sick he was didn't make losing him any easier. My mother died unexpectedly in her sleep. I took my father's death the hardest, not to say that both deaths weren't hard to deal with, but none compares with the death of a child.

I met a young lady that touched my life. She was a student of mine. Bright, full of life, and by far one of the nicest individuals I have ever met. I know it sounds cliche, because people always seem to say that when someone dies, but she really did have all those wonderful qualities you rarely see in people today. She was sick when I met her. I should have been prepared to lose her, but I wasn't.

I decided I wanted to make a little extra money so I took on the role of Home and Hospital teacher after school. This is an opportunity for credentialed teachers to work with students not able to attend school due to health issues. I was assigned to a young lady too sick to attend school full-time. At the time I met her she was 17 years old and a year behind in school. She should have been a senior, but because of all the time she lost in school due to her illness she was in the 11th grade.

First I met her dad, a wonderful man and an assistant pastor at his church, her mother a quiet, humble lady with an infectious smile. She had two older brothers and to small nieces bursting with energy. Her mother watched them during the day. I loved to watch them run around and play when I visited their home. The little ones clearly got on her nerves...I loved how her mother would respond with a smile whenever she complained about their boisterousness (I would laugh inside). She would profess..."Ma!!!!....please come get them....they are getting on my nerves!!!"

We worked on everything together from science to math...neither of us very fond of math (geometry). I will be the first to admit I don't like math and I was always grateful I had the answers...because clearly we needed them to get through her assignments. Something about having the master key (the teacher's addition of the textbook) always brings me great comfort.

This morning at approximately 2:45 am I lost my sweet angel after a long battle with cancer. Since hearing the news I have been asleep most of the day. The mention of her name or the thought of me not being able to see her again brings me to tears. This has been a tough year for me, personally one of the most difficult in my adult life.

I was fairly happy the past 5 or 6 years. I had left behind a stressful job in 2007. I started teaching in 2008. I finally found my niche in this life. I was so worried personally, because things were going so well. I know that sounds silly but I never wanted things to change. I was finally content with being single. It's hard to believe for some, but I had actually made peace with the fact that I would probably never marry. I have a few friends my age that are single due to divorce, death, or simply not meeting the right man. These ladies had learned to live with it and actually live full lives. I had a job I loved and I was starting to develop some hobbies that kept me busy. As long as men still looked at me, and occasionally opened doors for me, I knew I had a choice. Under those circumstances being alone wasn't so bad as long as I was calling the shots. That all changed this year.

Some of the sadness and depression I am feeling I believe can be attributed to my age. I have lost love before. It has been denied or taken from me, love has been severed from me in death. Last year I was told I couldn't have any more kids. My period is out of control (I often have 2 a month). My doctor recommended that I have a hysterectomy which I put off until summer so that I would have time to recuperate. When my doctor told me the news I didn't even flinch. I already had one child and plus I am in my 40's...no a big deal, right?...but then out of nowhere the loneliness and depression started. Working with my little lady kept me so busy that during that time I was able to forget that I was hurting, but in the past month since school has been out I have cried almost every day...there are days I wake up crying and days I cry myself to sleep.

I started walking to improve my mental well being and to lose weight back in December. In March I started running. That helped for awhile until recently when I hurt my knee. I tried to do everything right. I bought running shoes, I read articles, and books about running, but since my early twenties my right knee has given me trouble. I ran Thursday hurting, and after a few days of rest I tried again today, but my knee was just too sore and I ended up walking. Today, I also came to terms with the fact that I need therapy. I no longer have the tools to do deal with this on my own.

My little lady made me laugh and I will miss that. We kept busy doing school work. She had dreams, she wanted to be a nurse like her dad. She dreamt of going to college. In the fall we were going to start looking at colleges and scholarships for her. We even talked about her attending school online until she felt strong enough to attend school physically. Even though she was very ill, she was strong. She was a real fighter up until the very end. We never talked about her disease or prognosis. Over a period of 8 months I spent time with her regularly, and during that time I came to love her very much.

I got to see her this past week. I told her I loved her and that it was a real privilege being her teacher. We texted back and forth yesterday. I was supposed to go and see her, but I cracked a filling and had to go to the dentist. I promised her that I would bring her a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino from Starbucks, today but at 2:45 am this morning she passed away. I was devastated when I got the news because I didn't get to take her, her favorite drink. I was reminded today, by a very kind lady, that in actuality whether I was aware of it or not I did get to say goodbye. She reminded me that I saw her on Thursday. I talked to her, and kissed her little forehead , and told her I loved her. After being reminded of our last visit...I can muster up enough strength to say I am proud of that memory.

I don't know if I have the strength to work as a Home and Hospital teacher again. I don't know how to detach myself. I couldn't have prevented myself from loving this little girl had I tried. Love has this way of coming into your life whether you're ready or not, whether you want it or not. Afterall who can deny its strength? We can't help who we love and we would be hard pressed to even try to stop it...we simply can't.

I Corinthians 13:7, 8 "Love endures all things. Love never fails."

- New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures

The Career Toolbox...Valuable information for educators and those interested in distance education

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Sun, 16 Jun 2013 05:02:00 +0000

I had a lady reach out to me regarding collaborating and sharing information on my blog about her site. I don't normally respond well to these types of requests. I immediately get on the defensive when people reach out to me to "link" to my blog; because, I don't earn any money doing this. This is more of a hobby for me. In a different life I would have been a writer. It's really obvious that I passed that seed on to my daughter. She was an English major in college and always manages to find herself in the middle of writing projects. She is the happiest when writing or playing football on my Xbox (long story odd combination I know). Anyway, I have had individuals looking to make money contact me and well just anger me in the long run...but this was different....I am getting to that, but first I have to go off on this tangent.....

So People who know me know I am a talker. Yes, I have tried to change...but that's like telling a quiet person..."YOU'RE TOO QUIET....YOU NEED TO TALK MORE!!!"...I disagree. If you have ever known or hung out with someone shy or quiet, (keep in mind quiet doesn't necessarily mean shy), you might be surprised at what comes out of their mouths if you force them to talk. Better to leave the quiet, quiet because as the old folks say..."still waters run deep"....and well talkative people like me....no mystery....sorry!

Anyway, if not for online and distance learning I don't know how I would have managed to complete 3 degrees online (well I attended a community college for my Associate's degree...NONE of that was online). I earned a Bachelor's degree, and a Master's online. The teacher credentialing program I completed had some residency requirements that I had to complete at a "ground" campus, but for the most part that program was online too.

Okay so back to this site. It turns out it has some really relevant information for distance learners and those interested in pursuing degrees online. There are a lot of opinions and discussions around online degrees. I think that it is important to do research, talk to others that have completed online degree programs, and get as much information as you can, especially getting answers to questions that really matter like..."How employable are individuals with online degrees?" It has propelled my secular experiences. I am an individual who did much better after earning advanced degrees. It didn't seem to matter that they were online. What mattered was that the schools I attended are accredited. I have been a supervisor, a project manager, and now a teacher; but I also think that it depends on what you major in too. I am sure that there are other individuals out there that could tell different stories...but so could those that have attended popular mainstream brick and mortar colleges that didn't propel them further than the unemployment line!!...So again what's important is your major, and how well you sell yourself at the interview.

The biggest drawbacks for me had more to do with the lack of scholarships available to online students at the time that I completed my programs. My understanding is that there are more scholarships available to online students now, due to the growth in that area; but I don't have any specifics. This site might?.. I was considered an out of state student for most of my undergraduate studies, not part of any sororities, (don't have a lot of those in the online world), and I couldn't take advantage of local grants specific to the state of California (like Cal grant). I did get Pell, but that is a federal grant that just about anyone with a financial need can qualify for. Most individuals who attend college out of state face that same dilemma too unless they attend on a partial or full scholarship. I, on the other hand, will work until I drop dead and probably still not be able to pay off all my loans. Anyway, I started reviewing this website and found a lot of useful information. I plan to review it again. It's not just for educators. The site has different writers that contribute information on some of the best online and distance colleges, career paths for various degree programs, and a lot of information on online and distance learning. There is information on this site about certification programs, cheapest online programs, but what caught my attention was the career toolbox for educators.

Is it a commerce site? Well...sure in the long run probably so, but...."is there information that could be valuable?" I think so... Bottom line for us educators is I think it might be worth investigating the website...especially if you're looking at student loan debt forgiveness, or becoming national board certified. I am very interested in National Board Certification. I want to travel and live somewhere different...like the east coast...(bucket list item). I saw some interesting information regarding adding technology, and different skills to your (toolbox) resume. There is even something on growth, and what to expect as an educator. They are on Facebook too!

The Career Toolbox

What's the Point?

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Sat, 25 May 2013 07:13:00 +0000

It's been so long since I have done this...not even sure what's the point of it all? Blogs are personal opinions. Most of us writing are not authorities on any particular subject, and oftentimes we are writing about something no one else really cares about. It was a fad and for someone like me who loves to talk about everything it is an outlet too; but what is so important that I have to let it out on such a public forum? Is it appropriate to put one's feelings on the line or out there for everyone else to see? Can it be in some ways helpful or is it just a sign that I am attention starved? I don't know? Sometimes I think it is more about searching for answers to what bothers me the most and keeps me up at night. There are those questions in the back of my mind...."Has someone else gone through what I am struggling through and how did they work through it?"..."Is there some insight on how to handle this or that problem?"..."Will I find the answers I need from the opinions of others?"..."If I put it out there and write about it will it make me feel better once I write it all down, even if my audience is built primarily out of strangers?"... Shared experiences can make us feel like we aren't alone. Working through a problem alone can be in itself devastating, especially if we have no one to talk it out with. I am proud to say that I am growing. I recently turned 45 years old and it wasn't so bad afterall. I am middle aged...Wow probably passed the middle already. I can't imagine that I will live to see 90, or that this world is even going to still be around in another 45 years at the rate we are declining...but that is a topic for another day. What I like about this new milestone is who I am inside. Twenty years ago I was a loving, caring individual. Today I love even deeper. I am affected in a much more intense way than ever before. If there is one thing that older people have to offer each other and others around them is the ability to love very deeply. The cost that comes along with that is that I feel pain in a way that can be difficult at times to shoulder or shake. I am much more emotional in an outward way too. I don't do as good a job as I used to hiding how I feel. Sometimes I don't care too. I cannot imagine losing a true love at this age if I was in a serious relationship. I don't know how some of my friends survive divorce, at any age really. Honestly, is it really better the second, or third time around? How does one shoulder falling in love with someone that stops loving them or that crush on someone that never really felt the same? Now there is a topic I would like to hear more about.

Not All CSET Preparation Sites Are What They Say They Are

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 23:12:00 +0000

Something that really irritates me is when some outfit finds my blog and decides to post some bogus response in order to link their crappy site to mine promoting commercial garbage. There is this one CSET preparation website that sells either study guides or flashcards that has this really bad. I delete more of their posts than any other crappy piece of spam that tries to link to my blog. What is really disappointing is the poor grammar and spelling associated with these links.

My blog is not a commerce or commercial site. I didn’t create it with the intention of earning an income, although it is my information, (see copyright below), and I value it. It's not for sale. Please do not post if you’re not a real person with something of value to add to the original post. There is no short cut to teacher preparation and there are a lot of websites out there with study guides that are garbage. I know I have wasted money on a few back when I attempted to prepare for the CSET Business exam...that was a real waste of money. The bright side of that experience was at least I got my money back.

If you choose to use a site that promises to help you pass the CSET make sure:

1. They can spell and put together a sentence

2. They are a member of the Better Business Bureau

...that way you can get your money back if need be.

Is There Really Life After High School?...From the Diary of a High School Reject

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 10:13:00 +0000

High school was a weird time for me, not surprisingly for my daughter too, which is why I think I have always been "hyper-sensitive" towards kids that don't fit in. The irony in all of this is that I now teach high school, but before I go on I have to be really honest, teaching high school was not my first choice. I love kids at any age, but I have to admit I really enjoy the energy and fun that flows from elementary age children. The older kids get the harder it is for some of them to fit in, especially when dealing with others. It is a time when a lot of students report that they feel the most misunderstood. I can relate to that. Many pull away from their parents, and rely on kids their own age to confide in. But, what about those of us that felt we didn't have a confidant, even in those our own age? I see the kids that don't fit and the strong desire they have to run away from everyone else...A desire that can sometimes manifest itself into something really scary. These kids today really do have it much harder than we did when I was growing up. A sign of the times no doubt.

Today, I was faced with the decision of whether or not to attend my 25th year high school reunion. A big part of me really wanted to attend. The last time my class had a reunion was the 10th year; but I couldn't attend. I was living pretty far away, in Southern California, at that time and too focused on what was going on in my life then (okay I was broke). I figured I would catch the next one. I had no idea 15 years would pass before there would be another one. Now at year 25 things are different. I live much closer, just a little under 75 miles outside of the small town where I attended high school; so, getting there wasn't as big a challenge, plus I hadn't seen many of my friends in 25 years. A few I reconnected with on Facebook and that class reunion site. At least a half dozen or so of them that I never forgot I really, really wanted to see again; although I was a little intimidated over the challenge of remembering everyone else. I imagined my embarrassment over all the awkward conversions I was bound to have throughout the night...well if anyone even bothered to talk to me.

Why?...because truthfully...high school for me was painful. I left high school confused, pregnant, and broken hearted. Not to mention through all of this my father was dealing with the bitter disappointment, and despair over my uncertain future, and delicate state. No one knew all the pain I was going through, because I wasn't popular. Who cared really? I remember my stepmother calling my closest friends, "sweat hogs"...Most gen Xer's and baby-boomers know what a sweat hog is from the TV show "Welcome Back Carter" where John Travolta got his start. For those of you who don't know what a "sweat hog" is...they were losers...and in a sea of uncertainty I was very lost.

Well to make a long story short none of that mattered anymore. I got my life together, had some fun along the way, and I am now past all that pain or so I thought? I am certainly not past the fear of the unknown. My yearbooks are in storage, so I have no help at my finger tips now in trying to figure out how I was going to recognize or remember people. Who would I talk to? What would I say?...

As fate would have it...I didn't attend. I had a flat tire, which just deflated my whole day. Too tired to deal with it, I had just returned from a recent trip a few days prior to the reunion...So, I gave up and afterwards started to feel regret...I would have liked to have known. Did anyone remember me? Was I even missed? I always tell my students, as I told my daughter during her difficult school days, keep your head up. Life can be a wonderful adventure, or a painful trip...it's your choice. Make the best of it and keep moving forward...Although it would have been nice to peer back into the looking glass for just a moment, I let that moment pass...crap I hate regret!!

In the long run...I am really proud. Even if I didn't get to share it with anyone tonight I am amazed at the path my life took! I would have never guessed I would end up where I am today. Now don't get me wrong. I am not wealthy, don't wear expensive clothes....I don't own my home (yet); but, none of that matters either, because I have choices. If any of that really mattered to me, I would have it. The point I am trying to make is this...Life is TOO short to destroy early on...really at any time...

For those of us that didn't or don't fit in...it is amazing what a positive attitude and a never surrendering self-determination can do. I survived life after high school and I can say with certainty to my students...my kids....So can you!!!...THIS TOO SHALL PASS!!!!..

High school is survivable and it really isn't the end of your life. Let's get out there and make some good decisions together shall we!!

Ms. B

Helpful Materials for Passing The CSET, Multiple Subjects Examination for Teachers

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 18:33:00 +0000

Recently, I was asked what tools I used to pass the CSET California Multiple Subjects Examination for teachers. I didn't realize until asked that question that I had not shared my resources. I love to do research, and I did some on one of my favorite sites, Amazon, and followed the advice of other teacher candidates who had taken the test and posted reviews on what worked for them. The first thing I did was take the practice exam at the California Subject Examination for Teacher Website. You have to be familiar with the test and ABSOLUETLY DO NOT skip the written questions. Much of what you see on the actual test you will find on the practice exam. I took the practice exam more than once until I passed it several times in a row. Many candidates take for granted how important it is to do the practice test. Of course practicing the test alone isn't enough. I also used other materials.

There are four small books (desk references), that I used that I purchased from the Amazon website for around $2.00 or $3.00 dollars each. I purchased the books useds. It's a good idea to purchase a test preparation book such as the CliffsTestPrep or Kaplan. The other books are part of the Scholastic Homework Reference Series titled, Everything You Need to Know About English Homework, Everythink You Need to Know about World History Homework, Everythink You Need to Know about American History Homework, and Everything You Need to Know about Science Homework.

There are also books in that series for Geography and Math, but the math wasn't as helpful. The books are written by Anne Zeman and Kate Kelly. The books are the fourth to sixth grade homework series and not only a great desk reference for elementary students and their parents, but also perfect for any future elementary teacher candidate studying for the multiple subjects exam in California.

How To Pass The Revised RICA

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 17:20:00 +0000

Most of the advice I have for this one is in a previous post. I am happy to report I passed the revised RICA. Many are struggling with this test, and I do agree that since the State of California revised the test in August 2009 it is a lot harder to pass than before. I met and spoke with a teacher who let her credential lapse after taking time off from work to start a family. She explained to me that she had previously taken the test and passed it prior to the revision. When she retook the revised version back in July she was shocked to learn that she had not passed and was repeating the test at the same time I was attempting to try again too. What I can say from experience is if you walk in prepared it is a test that can be passed.

I don't know of nor can I recommend any preparation programs here in the State of California, but I can teach you some strategies you can use on your own in order to help you pass that test. Like the average person I will attest I "HATE TAKING TESTS." Standardized tests are about the worse. For an individual seeking to be a newly credentialed teacher in the State of California this one exam can make the difference between finding and keeping a job. It truly is not the end of the world if you walk in prepared.

The good news is not everyone has to take this test. If your seeking a single subject credential in the State of California you're looking at taking the CSET specific to the disciple you are interested in teaching and the CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills Test). On the other hand if your interested in becoming an elementary (K through 6) or Education Specialist (Special Education) teacher both of which I am pursuing, or if your interested in becoming a reading specialist then yes you're one of us folks that has this exam to face.

But on to how to pass it, there were a few methods I tried and they were well worth it. Rather than repeat myself a million times I will refer back to my first post on Passing the RICA were I share what worked for me. If you don't have time to read that whole post then the cut and dry of it is this....First and foremost don't walk in blind or unprepared. The two books I recommend without hesitation are Ready for the Revised RICA, the third addition by James Zarrillo and Case Studies in Preparation for the California Reading Competency Test, third addition by Joanne Rossi and Beth Schipper. You can get these books really cheap at Amazon.com

Keep in mind the Case Study portion of the RICA is worth 20 percent of the total grade. That has both its advantages and disadvantages depending on how you look at that 20 percent. My advice is that you make sure to become familiar with as many case studies as the Case Studies in Preparation for the California Reading Competency Test as possible. You will not regret it. In the long run practicing the Case Studies will also prepare you for the rest of the tests because the Case Study covers all the domains of the test. Don't misunderstand me. You cannot rely on just the Case Studies book alone, James Zarillo's book is first and foremost the tool that you need to get ready for the test. Rossi and Schipper's book really only prepares you for the Case Study.

Back to why I say the 20 percent is both good and bad. Keep in mind the Case Study is only 20 percent of the test. In reality if you're one of those people that is an excellent test taker you may be one of the very few that could bomb the Case Study and still pass the test, but I wouldn't rely on that alone. That test is no walk in the park. Prepare well for the entire test and you will do well.

Sincerely,
Coletha Browning
Education Specialist

My First Attempt at Passing the Revised RICA

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 23:20:00 +0000

Okay - So in the last post, Journey of a Newly Credentialed Teacher, I kinda got this wrong...hmmm. I was totally confused. Is that okay to admit?

This whole I have 5 years thing to complete the RICA (Reading Instruction Competence Assessment)...yeah...no...less than that. The time frame varies depending on your program of study and the credential you're pursuing; but in order to apply for a preliminary elementary, or special education credential, you have to take the RICA and the CSET exams first. I worked for 2 years as an intern while I finished up all the requirements to earn both credentials, but I was only partially credentialed. I was working under an Internship Education Specialist Credential, which I was able to obtain through the State of California after passing the CSET, but that credential is only good for two years.

With all the state requirements that I have to meet I get so confused that I don't know if I get it all the time. Well here I am in my last class WOOHOO!!!...and I gotta take this one last test in order to receive my preliminary credential...man I so thought I was past all this crap!!!!....So I made the mistake of rushing without preparation into the belly of the beast...THE RICA!!!!

Okay so I prepared over a two week period....SO NOT A GOOD IDEA!!!...This test is a MONSTER!!! The RICA was revised recently in August of 2009 and it is true what they say it is A LOT harder than it was prior to the revision... Anyway, not to get off on the wrong foot it is a doable exam. I almost did it last week. The multiple choice portion of the test isn't the problem, it's the case study that blew my socks off.

The test used to be 5 hours, now it is 4 hours. The case study alone takes about an hour. You really have to pay attention to the details and make quite a few recommendations in writing. In addition to the case study there are 4 written responses. The first response has to be 75 to 150 words, the other three average 150 to 300 words. Not too bad, although you have to pay attention to the question and not give too little or too much information. If it asks for one instructional strategy...DO ONE. First of all you don't have time to add more than what is necessary if you want to finish in 4 hours, and secondly they look for how well you pay attention and follow directions. Not paying attention to what they are asking for can lower your score.

Anyway, SO.....I was feeling fairly confident until I got to the case study. Talk about wanting to cry. I was like, "WOW!!...Guess I will be taking this test again!" My biggest mistakes...I took way too much for granted when it came time to prepare for this test.

I really worked my butt off studying for the CBEST and CSET Multiple subjects. I got through both on the first try. Both tests where a piece of cake compared to the RICA, but the one thing they all have in common...That practice test at the Pearson Website.. I took the practice exams for both the CBEST and CSET as part of my preparation. I even took each practice tests more than once. I also purchased books to help me prepare for the CSET and I attended a workshop for the CBEST, so when it came time to sit down for both those exams, upon looking back I knew that all that preparation was to my benefit especially, during the written portions of the tests. I knew that if I hadn't taken the practice tests that I probably would have struggled to pass the CBEST and CSET.

Regarding the RICA I started looking at the practice test the morning of the exam...I started answering the multiple choice questions and I was nailing them...getting them all right with a big fat smile on my face. So I moved on and didn't focus on the sample Case Study. That was a big mistake. I didn't dare skip any steps on the CBEST or CSET. As a matter of fact I passed all the sections of the CSET including the writing, which I didn't have to take because I had taken the CBEST. I could have skipped the CBEST all together....talk about getting big headed.

So back to the test. As I was sitting there looking over the case study and I came to the conclusion..."I can't do this, not today, so I looked it over realizing what a mistake I had made not going over the practice exam case study at the NES website, and I decided this time it wouldn't count, so I walked out.

Another mistake I made. I purchased a book "Ready for The RICA" that was outdated. There is a revised addition and as a matter of fact you have to look for "Revised" in the title or you'll end up with the wrong book. The "Revised Ready for The RICA" by James Zarrillo is probably about the best one. His old edition comes highly recommended. I had the older one and it had enough information in it to get me through the multiple choice questions, but his new addition has more information that is very helpful, although it may not be enough on it's own when it comes to the case study. Another really important book is "Case Studies in Preparation For the California Reading Competency Test" by Joanne Rossi and Beth Schipper. Believe me you can never study too many case studies. Plus an added benefit is that all of this preparation does strengthen our practices in the classroom when working with students who struggle with reading, or who are learning how to read for the first time.

So in closing, I am anxious to do it again, to test out my theories about where I went wrong, especially after attempting the test, and I am anxious to test out my preparation materials to see if they really are enough to get READY FOR THE RICA. I anxiously await for August when I can take it again...(because OF COURSE keeping my job would be nice)....more to come then.

Peace and Blessings!!!!

Journey of a Newly Credentialed Teacher

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 04:57:00 +0000

Today I am reflecting. It's been a long week. I didn't get much sleep, which I blame on me being in high gear all week. I reached a milestone in my career and I celebrated it by spending the day shopping with my daughter. I totally forgot that my childhood best friend was giving her daughter a baby shower today...so I know I will be spending the beginning of next week mending an important relationship.

Okay...so back to reflecting on why I have had such an energetic week. Just this past Thursday night I sat down with a credentialing advisor at school and he said something to me that I have been waiting to hear certain that it would take forever before I did. He told me, "You're approaching the light at the end of the tunnel." I thought "Wow, really?..This can't be almost over?" The State of California has made me jump through so many hoops that I thought it would never end.

I remember asking, when I started the credentialing program, how long would it take for me to become a credentialed elementary school teacher, and I could never get a straight answer. "Well, since your looking at a dual program which allows you to earn two credentials (I am working on credentials in special education and general education) it just depends. It is different for different people...Some people do it in two years or so, some longer." I thought "Wuh!?!..That's not an answer!"....

Okay, (sigh),..anyway, I was told along the way there were tests I would have to take. "Well in order to meet the requirements set by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing you have to take the CBEST (California Basic Education Skills Test) to meet the basic skills requirement, then CSET (California Subject Examination For Teachers) to show subject matter competency, and then after that you have to take the RICA,(Reading Instruction Competence Assessment) at the end of your program, but you have five years to complete the RICA...

What is important now is getting through CBEST and CSET in order to get your preliminary credentials out of the way". Blah...blah...blah...yadda...yadda...yadda...All I knew was that I wanted to be a teacher and no matter how long it took I had time, (actually that is not true there is a time limit if you're already working in the classroom...ANYWAY). I learned that I could teach while working on the credentials. There were some prerequisites I had to complete, but as long as I had a Bachelor's degree at the minimum I could work while in school.

Before entering the classroom as the teacher of record I had taken and passed the CBEST. I had also worked as a substitute teacher the year prior to getting my own classroom, so I felt like, "Okay I think I can do this!" I fell in love with my students and my job and thought, "Wow there is nothing else in this world that I would much rather be doing right now except for this!"...And believe me I have tried a few things. In the past 10 years or so I have worked as a secretary, administrative assistant, clerical supervisor, and project manager and hated it all...I had worked my way through the ranks in the business sector and never found as much joy as I do working as a teacher.

The hardest part of my credentialing program has been taking the required state tests; but with a lot of hard work (really lots and lots of prayer), and study I am at the end of my tunnel like my credentialing advisor said. I passed the CSET all the subtests (it's a three to four part test depending on the credential) and of course now I will move on to the RICA, although I have a little time. Over the next few weeks I should be receiving preliminary credentials in the mail with a State of California seal on them. The hardest part is behind me, yet this still feels like the beginning...the beginning of a new life, and a new career. I am 41 years old in my second year of teaching and I feel like I just got started...like a kid fresh out of college...You know they say life begins at 40...with that being said regarding that last statement I would have to agree.

Wuh?!!!.....

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:46:00 +0000

I expected to rest a lot this summer. I mean to tell you the truth teachers look forward to summer break just as much as their students do; but instead I got totally addicted to playing online games on Facebook. I would spend hour upon hour playing games until sitting in the same place made my butt hurt. Now I ask is that healthy?...Back in April of 2009 I read an article on the subject that looked at both sides of the argument by first asking the question does spending too many hours on Facebook lower student performance? It also highlighted the opposite by asking the question can Facebook actually booster student performance? Does it hurt or help? Okay readers I will let you decide. Can spending hour after hour in front of a computer playing game after game and doing nothing else for days at a time until your body aches really hurt you?...Well duh?...Do the math....if after this experiment you can still remember how.

Cheers!!.....

For more information read more here on the subject Does Facebook Use Affect College Grades?

Why this?...

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 00:50:00 +0000

During a math lesson on Friday one of my high school students asked me. "Ms. Browning....why are you here? Why in the world would you want to work with these bad kids at this school?"

I work at a community school for students who have been kicked out of the district due to occurrences with bad behaviors. Some of my kids are just misunderstood, while others manage to get themselves in so much trouble that they wind up here. This is not the first time I have had a student ask me that question. So I asked him, "Why do you ask? Don't you think everyone deserves a second chance?"...his response, "I don't know?...Depends on what they did...but I wouldn't go to college all them years like you and wind up working here for nothing."

I had to laugh and pause just for a minute....I could relate to what he was saying, but for me so much had changed that this young kid probably wouldn't understand. It's one of those things you just have to live through. Two years ago I was a project manager. I worked in healthcare and I made a lot more money than I do now. I was driving a new car, credit cards maxed to the limit, more stress then I could handle. I was depressed. I had managed to work for the same organization for 10 years. I worked my way up from secretary to supervisor, then project manager, all the while telling myself things would get better and they never did. I knew I needed a change. The only time I could remember being happy back then was when I was in school. Even my daughter said to me..."Mom you are a different person since becoming a teacher. I don't remember during the time I was growing up you having a job that has made you this happy."

I will admit, I did take a loss in income. I had to liquidate some debts, and restructure my life. We had to move into a cheaper place for the umpteenth time. My daughter and I have moved so much our furniture should have roller skates on it...actually I bought some new furniture this year since moving, so that was a fun change.

Today, I spend more time visiting with family, I exercise, I go places, We eat out on occasion and catch a show every now and then. I have long periods of time off. I only work 9 months out of the year, and being a teacher is the best job I have ever had. I take pride in what I do and I am learning new things all the time. Heck I learn stuff every time I have to plan for a lesson. I explained to my student....

"One of the most important things you can do for yourself is get an education. It gives you choices. I can always go back to what I was doing, but I don't want to. So I make less money. We are living better then we ever did when I was making more money." He totally didn't understand that last part. How can you live better with less?

Well, if there is anything I want to teach my students it would be this...

You only live once. It is never too late to follow a dream. You can do what may seem like the impossible, I did. Never put a dollar amount on your happiness....because no matter what anyone says money cannot make you happy. It may not sink in for a few years, but if they hear it enough...just maybe they will remember it one day...if not directly from me, just know that it is possible.

I never ever thought I would ever hear me say that and mean it. As a matter of fact I am going to go take a walk with my daughter around our neighborhood right now. Smell some roses, look at my neighbors landscapes, walk past a park or two (lot's of parks in my neighborhood). All the people I used to envy walking their dogs, riding bikes with their children, playing on the swings with their kids, jogging past me on the bike path I will waive at...I don't have to envy them anymore...I am one of them now. I thought I was suppose to envy the lady passing me by in the Lexus....nope not with that car note

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Now playing: Mariah Carey - Anytime You Need A Friend
via FoxyTunes

Follow up to a Mother's Love

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 01:37:00 +0000

Look.....I don't profess to be a poet. When I started writing that post about my daughter the words just started to flow...I know some of it really doesn't rhyme, but that was not my intention, (to write a poem). That post had more to do with us becoming runners. It's about a mother's love, and pride in her only child. I cherish her and if I could I would shout it from every rooftop in town I would...any town at that. Am I apologizing for my attempt at writing a poem..NO...well sorta...only to my daughter who is the real poet in this family...

Dis mama's old butt trying to hang ;0)

......but don't worry sweetie I won't quit my day job (smooches)...oh BTW I started a journal of our journey to become lifetime runners....starting with training for our first marathon at LiveJournal...my online diary, one day at a time.

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Now playing: Babyface - There She Goes
via FoxyTunes

This mother's love

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:05:00 +0000

She has always been a little different, but so am I. I didn't know that I could love a person as much as I do her. I know what it is to want to take away your child's pain, to hope that some of the trials you faced your children never will. What about the trials they face you won't? How do you protect them from that pain? Truth is you don't. We all have our burdens to bare...when it comes to our children it doesn't seem fair.

She was so beautiful when she was born. All the things I hated about myself she made me love. My smile, she has it, many of my expressions she shares. She is more like me than anyone else in the world. When I looked at myself in the mirror I hated the reflection staring back at me..I think it was the parts of me that most reminded me of my mother. To look at my daughter and see so much of me and see how beautiful is she, I finally learned to love myself through the reflection of another. Look what God made...and allowed me to be the caretaker of. She is this mother's love.

Her relationship with her father has always been a strain. Although she is his oldest it wasn't long before he had more, none of which I bore. He was there at times, but not really. He'd make promises and brake them. She swore he cared more for his sons, and child support...we usually got none...

In the midst of all this pain came puberty...My perfect child started into this strange ugly-duckling stage, it's like she didn't know if she wanted to look like me or him, have light or dark skin, would she be short or tall...be heavy or small?...

A face more beautiful with each passing year, long strong beautiful hair, and 20 or more pounds a year, every year, after year. Then I started to see a change. She became more sensitive and hidden found it difficult to make new friends. It's like my poor child just couldn't win. Truth be told she was always sensitive, a straight A student, that didn't fit in. Never part of the popular crowd, more mature than most her age she started college early...On the Dean's List, and Who's Who....never causing me to worry.

The first few years were difficult. Seemed like my poor child got sick every semester, but she persevered and in the midst of all that struggle she blossomed and came out of her shell...I started to see a whole new person. She was finally finding herself and the day arrived when she announced, "Mom I want to run a marathon!" OMG!...the journey has begun.

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Now playing: Maxwell - This Woman's Work
via FoxyTunes

This just SUCKS!!!....well maybe not totally?

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 16:44:00 +0000

Hey....I am venting....really I want to scream, and then come to my senses and share some links I found for free....you know stuff for teachers. That is really what this post is about. Freebies......

Besides....WOW!!...I guess I am not setting a good example if I start drinking, but it is true that not having what I need just SUCKS!!... okay really in some ways I am not surprised. I was warned that becoming a teacher would be the hardest job I would ever have and love.....well something like that. It rhymed the first time I heard it....

Hey, I suffer from a lack of resources, a lack of support, NO MONEY, crazy expectations, long work hours, and in the middle of all this chaos I am expected to teach my kids you know STUFF!!!....

I was reading one of my favorite blogs and I ran across one about a teacher who decided he had, had enough and was leaving his budget strapped school of little means for better pastures, a larger school with way more resources, and lots of perks...not necessarily more money just a nicer campus with computers in every classroom, smartboards, and most important perk....like LOTS AND LOTS OF CLEAN BATHROOMS. I will give the janitor credit at my school. He does keep our bathrooms clean...he just can't multiply them for us. I want MORE...hate standing in line.

I hear teachers moan and complain a lot and you know what, many of those complaints are valid. This job is really hard to explain. I wouldn't trade it for the world. I have never felt better doing what I do, but I hate it because I am expected to do so much with so little. I guess you really have to love children. Even with all the setbacks I keep getting up in the morning and going back for more. Besides the best part at my small school of little means...there are these faces...these little faces. They may not go to the school with perks, but they need teachers too...so if it is all the same I think I might stick this out....well maybe just a little longer. After all in this economy having a job is a blessing not to be taken for granted.

The state budget crisis in California has a lot of teachers really scared. Many of us have unanswered questions about whether or not we will have jobs tomorrow, and regarding this stimulus package how is it really going to help education? I mean is there going to be enough oversite, too much oversite, will the money get tied up in School District red tape? What I do know is that I have my students to worry about right now. Plus it takes my mind off things if I concentrate on teaching. For my kids I am willing to take the good with the bad.

I added some stuff below I wanted to share. I am always looking for a shoulder, support, and free stuff for my classroom. I have found some really wonderful sites with free curriculum online and I thought I might create a post putting some of the best links I have found in one place.

These are free resources so enjoy....I have found some really good uses for these links. I had a hard time deciding which is best...but I did narrow it down to my favorites. There are more out there, but these jewels below are more than enough to get started

1. This one is probably one of my favorites Discovery Education. My school district pays for memberships for our teachers for this site, but on your own you have the option of either a paid or free membership that is worth looking into http://discoveryeducation.com/
2. This one is soo cute. For me it is right up there with Discovery Education, and it is one of my favorites The Busy Teacher Cafe for K through 6 http://www.busyteacherscafe.com/index.htm
3. ABC Teach offers free and a paid membership too http://abcteach.com/
4. This is a gateway to hundreds of teacher sites, free printables, free curriculum, etc. Site for Teachers
5. Education World really is the educators best friend. http://www.education-world.com/

There have been some days I wanted to bang my head on the wall...but I found conversations at the sites below motivating

6. I really like this one Pro Teacher Community at http://www.proteacher.net/
7. The Teachers.Net is a great resource that leads to more resources too http://teachers.net/
8. A to Z Teacher Stuff is a good place to share an learn from other educators http://forums.atozteacherstuff.com/

You know I could go on, but these are great references and starting points for anyone looking for curriculum and place to vent, share funny stories, or get assistance finding resources you need for your classroom; ENJOY!!....

Time to Hit the Bricks....

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 02:53:00 +0000

Wow...now I gotta get back in the groove of work again...hmm. One of the many benefits to being a teacher is when the kids are off, so am I. I like the idea of having a summer vacation. Wow I haven't had one of those since high school. Then there is the downside...going back. The first week of winter break I was up and out of bed between 6:00 am and 7:00 am every morning; but as my vacation paddled along I started spending my time off surfing the net and preparing for one of my teacher certification exams that I will be sweating through next week. So....by the time the second week rolled around I was going to bed at 1:00 am or later in the morning, and getting up at noon...Wow those reminiscent college days....wait a minute...gotta go back farther then that. I meant high school days. What was I thinking. I was raising a kid and working by the time I got to college. The only person sleeping in on those days was my daughter. Anyway, I have to admit a part of me is looking forward to going back tomorrow, but not the part that has been enjoying staying up late nights. Since my free time is diminishing...guess I can't play on my computer as much either.

Attention Future and Current Teachers Preparing for CSET Exam

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 06:40:00 +0000

Attention California Teachers preparing to take the CSET Multiple or Single Subject Exam.

I have been scowering the Internet for 6 months or more looking for affordable resources to help me prepare for the CSET exam. I found something that I wanted to share with anyone else who might be looking for resources to help prepare for the exams too. There are different online outfits that claim they have the best tools available in order to prepare test takers for the CSET, but in doing research and buying a few of these products, I have learned that most fall flat; because their information is not current, nor relevant in many cases. It can be a real challenge on a teacher's salary to find something affordable too. There are lots of books available for the CSET Multiple Subjects, but some of the Single Subject exam topics can be really hard to find. The Kaplan CSET Multiple Subjects test prep seems to be one of the most popular, according to word of mouth, and Amazon ratings. Everyone's style is different and there are other books as well, in addition to a lot of other tools out there, but many of us new teachers don't know where to look first. I had to do a lot of research on my own, and I still look daily for new resources.

There are different agencies and universities that offer courses and workshops ranging from $200 to $400 hundred dollars, but if your like me a first year teacher money can be tight. I have searched Amazon.com, looked at reviews, and read different blogs, as well as, spoken to different teachers who have taken the test to get their opinions and advice. I am preparing to take the CSET multiple subjects exam January 10, 2009 (subtests I & III). Hopefully I will take subtest II in March. In addition, I plan on taking the single subject CSET for math. I really wanted to start a study group, but so many of my classmates, (I am in a Master's in Special Education program), were taking the tests at different times and dates, so that kinda fell through.

Well in one of my random searches online I ran across a new networking group that's FREE. It's a ning network too CSET Network the link http://csetnetwork.ning.com/

There it was at the top of my search page. Finally a study group out in cyberspace! I was really happy to see that someone decided to create a free forum to encourage teachers to work together to prepare for future exams. It's a new group, so there are not many members. I don't think very many people know about it, but I imagine that if the word gets out more will join.

I think it could be a wonderful opportunity for networking, mentoring and possible tutoring opportunities for teachers who have passed the test. I also think it would be an excellent resource for those of us getting ready to take the test.

Happy hunting!!...
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Walmart Employee Trampled to Death in Black Friday Frenzy

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 04:16:00 +0000

This is probably one of the most tragic events I have heard associated with today’s “Black Friday.” Unfortunately, it's not the first, just the first I have read about today. I cannot believe the insensitivity of some people (in this case the insensitivity of a few hundred people). While trying to control a crowd of shoppers a Walmart employee was knocked down and trampled to death during a stampede of customers wanting to shop.

First of all its Walmart....gotta be one in every city, and hole-in-the-wall in this country, and second there is plenty to go around. Okay third…IT’S WALMART….there is also the issue of the quality of the merchandise you get there too you know. Why would someone want so badly to hurt someone else in an effort to shop? I am not one to follow commercial holidays. There is reasonable doubt Christ was even born in December (you know the part about shepherds in the fields and the Northern Star) Don’t really see all that in the death of winter in Bethlehem this time of year...anyway this is not a religious debate (and yes I do believe in Christ)

If this was a question of Christianity or how Christians act.....would Christ be proud of what happened today in that crowd?

Whether you’re a believer in the season or not, what we should all remember is to be decent to one another. For those in Long Island that were a part of this devastating "life-ending" event......"SHAME SHAME!"

For the family left behind that mourns a father, son, brother and friend. God bless you!!!

Creating a Welcoming Environment in The Classroom

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 17:25:00 +0000

When I decided I wanted to become a teacher, I knew it would be different from any other secular job I had done before. I was really getting tired of what I was doing. I decided to teach special education because I didn't think the kids in general education needed me as much, plus there was a higher demand for special education teachers. Now don't get me wrong. I am not someone who wants to spend her days dealing with a lot of stress, but I don't mind a challenge now and then. Makes life just a little more interesting.

Well okay, so I got what I asked for, in terms of interesting. I work at an alternative school and talk about challenge. My students have been placed at my school because they were expelled from a comprehensive school, or they fell really far behind in credits and for one reason or another (alot of times it has to do with age) they were not eligible to attend a Continuation High School. For elementary and middle school students a Continuation High School is not an option. I guess I forgot to mention that my school has children ranging from elementary to high school.

Although, I am a special education teacher the model at our school is that we (the teachers) are accountable to all our students. I have the responsibility of teaching both special education and general education students. I like that model because it gives me a chance to work with children at all learning levels. Now comes the challenges.

I work with children from broken homes, foster homes, and some of the saddest situations I have seen. There are children that come from stronger homes, but they all have something in common. For one reason or another they couldn't cut it at a comprehensive school, (that is what we call regular 182 day a year mainstream schools).

We have no money, not much in the way of resources, and all of us teachers have to share our space, or classrooms a little more than maybe some of us would like. To top it off I am challenged with finding ways to make my environment inviting, a place where my students will feel welcome, and a place where they will be willing to come back to each day. I have gotten some really good recommendations from other experienced teachers, here are a few things I thought were worth sharing:

Always be polite and greet students with a positive salutation
Allow 5 minutes or more to talk about how students are doing and invite them to share stories about things they have done since you last met. You can really get someone's attention when you ask them to talk about themselves
Share something about yourself with your students. Funny stories are always valuable
Nothing wrong with having snacks in class from time to time, small rewards can be painless and cheap
Allow free time so that the students can socialize with each other (once a week, or at the end of class when appropriate)

My favorite

**Watch a movie every once and awhile. It can still be educational. Make it so by having the students write a summary about what they viewed and what they learned. If it has a significant social impact have them discuss it in their summary.

Retro Kidz

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:35:00 +0000

Too Too cute...new group doing a retro rap from the 80's..

How valid is a degree from an online institution

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 17:18:00 +0000

For those of you that have gotten an online degree, or are considering it I imagine you have probably ask yourself, "Does my online degree really count?"

Believe me I have asked that question too, even before I finished earning my first on line degree. My Bachelor's degree was a mix of both an online program and one that I attended at a "ground campus," but the similarities between the two had a lot to do with the fact that I was in an accelerated program. I completed my Master's degree 100% on line.

Let me start out by saying I am a real advocate for education. My get it where you can attitude may not be shared by all, but I think it is important to look at your circumstances. Don't get me wrong, the quality of one's education is very important, so when I say get it where you can, I really mean "Seize the opportunity....Strike while the iron is hot!" First and foremost make sure the college you choose to attend is accredited. That alone is the difference between trying to pass off a piece of paper as a degree and actually having a valid degree that can lead to a real job.

Oh....and we can never forget the importance of looking at cost. I have taken the attitude that student loans are an investment in my future, but I also understand that I have to pay those loans back. Then there is the issue of my daughter’s education. I felt like I owed her the benefit of one. So there are two educations that need to be paid for.
When I decided I wanted a Bachelor's degree my daughter was still fairly young, and I was a single mother. Attending school full-time, while paying a babysitter, and being away from home long hours either due to working all day, or attending school all night for me just was not an option. So I chose to attend school on line. What did I gain from that? Well I went from a secretary, to an upper level administrative assistant, (administrative coordinator), to a supervisor, project manager, and now school teacher. I would not have made those strides in my secular career without my degrees, so yes it paid off.

The importance of a college education boils down to this, having one prepares us for the real world or the workforce. What is so nice about education today is that students have more choices than 10 years ago. When looking at my daughter's choices we looked at everything cost, convenience, location, and the programs of study available to her. She needed to decide what was best for her. She also looked at whether or not she would attend a brick and mortar school, or an institution online. She decided the best choice was a traditional "brick and mortar.” Of course that is subject to chance as she advances in her education. She has talked about possibly earning a Master’s degree on line one day depending on what programs of study are available to her when it is time to make that decision.

In terms of where technology can take you I am one that enjoys social networking with others on line that share many of the same interests as me. I am not one who runs ads for other organizations, but a really good group to join if you’re looking for professionals on line and ways to advance your career is LinkedIn. In addition, many top employers, and recruiters hire members from this site. You will find a variety of talented people there, in addition to some very successful individuals who attended a variety of colleges both on line and off who like me are very proud of the schools we attended and the alumni associations we are a part of.

Widget Junkie

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:42:00 +0000

You know I have come to discover I have a new addiction and that's widgets. I am a widget junkie. It started out with me visiting different blogs and seeing all the neat little widgets writers were putting on their pages. Then I noticed the communities or groups associated with these widgets and I starting thinking...."hmmm I wouldn't mind being a part of that community" Truth be told I am a social networking junkie, so the enticement was almost too much for me...

I don't know were I will find the time? School keeps me so busy that I don't always get to visit my favorite sites. I am substituting this summer and I took some time off from school to study for my state exams, but this past week I have really been distracted. As if most Internet activities aren't distracting enough?

...hmmm..probably should stop now.

I have so many new memberships I don't know when I will be able to do my homework...oh yeah or grade papers or other things that people with lives do. Wow now I have a new distraction that I will have to get a handle on. I wonder if there are support groups for people like me? Good thing these things are free!!

Anyway for those of you who see the lighter side of widget addiction.....if you see something you like....hey grab the code...If I visited your blog...there is a chance I got a widget from you too!

Wisconsin Courts Uphold Firing of Teacher for Briefly Viewing Porn in class

noreply@blogger.com (Coletha Browning) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 03:11:00 +0000

This story just baffles me. There is a time and a place for everything and the classroom is not it. What is so sad about this case is the setting. This story has to do with a Wisconsin high school science teacher who while on school grounds, on a Sunday, with no students present, briefly viewed porn for what was said to be only a minute. As a result he was fired. His union fought the decision to fire him arguing that the dismissal was too harsh. The district was forced through arbitration to reinstate him, but later the decision to fire him was upheld by an appeals court.

Some may say that the decision was too harsh, but I think it was appropriate. Hey!...can't this guy surf porn at home? Most districts have strict policies regarding immoral conduct in schools, which includes viewing inappropriate web-sites using school property, in this case a school computer. Even if students were not present, the fact that he used property owned by the school district to view porn is a little disturbing. According to an article I found at Teacher Magazine one of the reasons The District 2 Court of Appeals upheld the decision was because the arbitrator either ignored or overlooked the fact that the State of Wisconsin could revoke a teaching license for "behavior that is contrary to commonly accepted moral or ethical standards" (Foley, 2008).

I take issue with it because teachers have a great responsibility to care for the safety of our children. Most teachers know that their jobs can be called into question if their conduct is not befitting a public servant. I have had teachers tell me that they prefer to teach in communities that they do not live in because they don’t want to be caught in the grocery store buying booze and a student and parent approach them in the checkout counter. Yes I too value my privacy and can understand that line of thinking, although I don’t mind if someone sees me in the grocery store.

My final thought on this….You wanna look at porn, do it on your own time at your own computer. When at work, concentrate on work, not play. Mixing the two isn’t really considered a sound idea. Sounds like there could be some sort of addiction there?...I mean dude please?...

Reference

Court backs firing of teacher for one-minute peek at porn
By Ryan J. Foley
Associated Press
Article Last Updated: 07/23/2008 12:26:45 PM CDT taken from http://www.twincities.com/ci_9969572?source=most_viewed