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Student Performance Determines Teacher Pay
Arne Duncan has said it again. How well students do will determine how teachers are paid.
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Experience
Although I was never particularly fond of going to school as a child, I began teaching as a 3rd and 4th grade teacher and loved it. It was very challenging to teach two grades in one classroom and in all subject areas, but it went well with tremendous preparation time. I have also been a middle school teacher specializing in social studies, music, and reading; principal for a small, private K-8 elementary; K-8 school counselor; private college consultant; and college professor teaching Educational Psychology and Intro to Education.
Evolution
I have enjoyed all levels of education but find a special joy in presently working with middle school students. They change so much in the three years we have them in our care and it is inspiring to see how much they grow. While teaching at the college level was wonderful (no one throws spit wads or pencils across the room), I missed being with the students I teach about. So, I left the college scene and returned to where it is all happening--the schools. At the end of each school year, I ask myself, "How can I do things better next year?" I've written a syndicated newspaper column, College Knowledge, for six years and had a radio spot by the same title for five years. As director of my church choir and music liturgist, I fulfill my yearning for music. I enjoy change and dread boredom.
Homefront
I have also enjoyed watching my five children grow up. Listening to them talk about school has given me a better perspective of what effect my actions have on students. So many of the things we do in education are based on past experiences and not on benefit to students. I see that changing.
Education
I received my Bachelor's in Education from Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, IA and my Master's in Counseling from Drake University in Des Moines, IA. After 34 years and constant continuing education, I'm beginning to think I know a little about education. In the fall of 2009, my book hit the shelves of all the major book stores and online, Best College for You:How to Find the Right Fit and Save Big Money. The book was a 7 year process and tells parents and students the easy ropes about finding a college you can afford.
Private Joys
Each year I can't wait for spring so I can begin working in my perennial gardens. Watching the plants come to life after a long and hard winter is truly a miracle. Summer is a time to catch up on friendships and lunches with friends. I also like to take walks along the lake in the evening and enjoy reading on my patio. Sunsets on the quiet lake dotted with sailboats and geese silently flying by are indeed something to cherish. Good for the soul. Vacation gives me some quiet time to enjoy the many things I rush past during the school year.
Education has been my focus my entire life and I enjoy staying current with the newest topics and sharing them with you. To learn a little more about what I do, visit my website.