A coalition of educational advocates will present their 3rd annual inside look at the Prince George’s County Public Schools for candidates running for the Board of Education. The event, which is open to the public, will feature topics like the achievement gap, ethics and the difference between the capital and operating budgets.
Earlier this year Dr. Hite held a closed-door meeting with the candidates resulting in criticism by some of an appearance to influence the politics of the board. Hite denied the charges saying he only wanted to provide an overview of many of the things facing the system.
Event Details
SAVE THE DATE!
Saturday, March 17
9201 Basil Court, Largo
CITIZENS FOR AN ELECTED BOARD PRESENTS THE THIRD
Prince George’s County
EDUCATION SYMPOSIUM
on
SCHOOL BOARD ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
A Comprehensive Inside View of
How our School System is Governed
–OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGETING
–LABOR RELATIONS
–ETHICS
–ACHIEVEMENT GAPS
–FEDERAL AND STATE LEGISLATION
–PARENT & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
–STUDENT DISCIPLINE & TRUANCY
–SPECIAL PROGRAMS
–THE NEXT FOUR YEARS
–and MUCH MORE!
School Board candidates and the general public welcome!
Watch for formal announcement coming soon
For more information:
Email ElectedBoard@aol.com
or call Jan Hagey (301) 464-0171
Dave Cahn (301) 627-5126
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Sunday, February 26, 2012
HOW TO KEEP BLACK HISTORY ALIVE AFTER BLACK HISTORY MONTH
In just two days, we will bid farewell to a month full of celebrating the accomplishments of people of African descent. The kente cloth will be stored, the old Negro Spirituals will be shelved, and the lecturers will shift their focus to what we’ll celebrate next. As grateful as I am for the extra day this month to enjoy the exhibits, theatrical productions, and chorales, 29 days is merely a drop in the bucket. It’s just not enough time to consume the contributions of those African American’s who have changed our nation and even the world.
My passion to instill a sense of self worth, value, and dignity in my children is ever at the forefront of my mind. One of the ways I’ve chosen to do that is by incorporating black history into their everyday lives. My children are greatness in motion and I desire not the validation of social media websites, hip-hop moguls, and the latest pair of sneakers. Those by products, if you will, are temporary and fleeting. However, teaching them from where they came is lasting and will certainly propel them to where they’re going.
In his book, Brainwashed: Dispelling the Myth of Black Inferiority, author Tom Burrell quoted these words spoken by Haki Madhubuti, a nationally known educator, poet, and editor:
“You can’t minimize the importance of cultural knowledge…you cannot build a healthy child – most certainly, he or she will not have a healthy world view – if he or she does not see himself or herself directly involved creatively in the development of civilization, culture, industry, science.”
Upon my return from Egypt in the summer of 2010, a trip that has forever changed my life, I pledged to make the sacrifice of my mother and other ancestors redemptive through my conscious and committed resolution to keep black history alive after Black History Month and all year long.
Here are three ways I’m honoring that pledge:
1. Read a daily black history fact: Dr. Carl B. Mack, the Executive Director of the National Society of Black Engineers, authored Black Heritage Day, the most comprehensive and unique perpetual calendar boasting 365 days of black history. Taking turns, we dive into the life of a phenomenal human being and walk away just a little more enlightened.
2. Visit museums and other points of interest. As I anxiously await the ribbon cutting ceremony in 2015 for the National Museum of African American History and Culture, I make it a point to visit the African Art Museum, the “American I AM” exhibit hosted by Tavis Smiley, and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial on the national mall.
3. Create fun and engaging activities. Grow a sweet potato as you explore the life of George Washington Carver. Take a walk through the woods and imagine it’s the trail of Harriett Tubman. Put on some music and pretend you’re sharing the floor with Sammy Davis, Jr. In so doing, you and your children are sure to understand their lives just a little bit better.
Kimberly K. Parker is the President and CEO of Writing Momma Publishing, LLC (www.writingmomma.com). To date, she has written three books and has helped nine children between the ages of nine and nineteen write and publish books of their own. Leave a comment about this blog below and visit Kimberly’s website at http://www.writingmomma.com/. Kimberly is a professional writer, author, publisher, and blogger living in Maryland with her husband and three children
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Message From Karyn T. Lynch Chief of Student Services, PGCPS
PARENT WARNING: Choking Game
There’s a new game in town and the outcome isn’t fun! Children in elementary and middle school have been playing the “Choking Game”. The choking game is played individually or in groups as a social activity. In this game, students deliberately cut off the flow of blood to the brain to achieve an artificial high. Students might put a plastic bag over their head, use a rope or belt, or have a peer choke them to the point of passing out. Once the student releases the pressure and the blood flow is restored, the student experiences a high or a rush from the immediate flow of blood to the brain. Because the blood flow is discontinued the student’s brain cells begin to immediately die. Students who become addicted to this rush, may play the game alone and risk death, a seizure, stroke, physical injury or brain damage.
Indicators that parents should look for are:
Suspicious bruises on the neck
Loss of concentration, agitation and aggressiveness
Bloodshot eyes
Other names for the choking game are GASP, fainting game, Pass Out and Space Monkey among others.
There’s a new game in town and the outcome isn’t fun! Children in elementary and middle school have been playing the “Choking Game”. The choking game is played individually or in groups as a social activity. In this game, students deliberately cut off the flow of blood to the brain to achieve an artificial high. Students might put a plastic bag over their head, use a rope or belt, or have a peer choke them to the point of passing out. Once the student releases the pressure and the blood flow is restored, the student experiences a high or a rush from the immediate flow of blood to the brain. Because the blood flow is discontinued the student’s brain cells begin to immediately die. Students who become addicted to this rush, may play the game alone and risk death, a seizure, stroke, physical injury or brain damage.
Indicators that parents should look for are:
Suspicious bruises on the neck
Loss of concentration, agitation and aggressiveness
Bloodshot eyes
Other names for the choking game are GASP, fainting game, Pass Out and Space Monkey among others.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Education The Root Of All That Is Good
Let us face the facts; education is the root of all that will make our Good county GREAT, to steal a line from County Executive Rushern Baker. The future of Prince George’s County Maryland does not rest in the arrival of the County’s first state agency to call Prince George’s County home, albeit, this is a good thing.
The future of Prince George’s County Maryland rests squarely on the shoulders of our K-12 public school system and its ability to prepare students to compete academically nationally and more importantly globally. The County’s aspirations, the hopes for a booming economy, and a community which is viewed as the beacon of innovation and a cradle of artistic creation is dependent upon an educational network. A network where its K-12 public school district, its community college with its various satellite campuses and its multiple 4-year public and private colleges and universities work to establish a seamless network of educational opportunities. The opportunities must be grounded in high academic standards, open access and affordability.
However, this path we call the future, begins with a high performing K-12 public school system, that embraces innovation, provides transparency, and builds parent and community trust through sound fiscal management, all with the goal to creating an educational environment envied by others and desired by all.
Prince George’s County Public Schools have many, if not most of the ingredients to become one of the best school districts in the nation. The system has some of the most qualified teachers in the state of Maryland, hundreds of the most experienced school based and central office administrators in the nation, and there are thousands of top ranked students sitting in classes across the County. The would be scholars are meeting the demands to challenge themselves academically and they are demanding more of their teachers. When you aligned these strengths with the most engaged group of parents and community stakeholders in the state of Maryland, you have the foundation to move the academic needle beyond a mere smidgen.
Now it is time to match all our strengths with educational leaders who desire only the best for our children, our families, our communities and our county.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Tracy Press: Exec. Dir. Powerful Beyond Measure
Call for More Volunteers: 2012 DC We the People Finals
Next week on February 21 and 22, the Center for the Constitution at James Madison's Montpelier will host the We the People DC High School and Middle School Citywide Finals at Georgetown Law School. We are writing to ask for your assistance at one or both of these events. We still need a few more volunteers to help these exceptional students. Can you help?
Click here, to VOLUNTEERhttp://montpelier.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b69a409a9782a3e95a1e1cb66&id=032faf1579&e=4cf0e3c138
The Center for the Constitution at James Madison's Montpelier will host these competitions, which serve its mission by engaging students on their knowledge and understanding of the history and principles of our Constitution and Bill of Rights. As the DC We the People Coordinators, we would be honored if you would invest your time as a volunteer for DC's incredible students.
As you may recall, the We the People competition takes the format of a simulated congressional hearing, which involves middle and high school classes presenting testimony and answering questions about historical, political, and constitutional issues before a panel of three judges acting as a congressional committee. To make the competitions a success, we need judges, timers, and facilitators for the two citywide finals competitions.
About the Citywide Finals on February 21-22, 2012: The Center for the Constitution would like to thank Richard Roe of Georgetown Law for his support. Both State Finals will take place in classrooms at Georgetown Law. The Center will cover breakfast and lunch for the volunteers on each day of the competition. Volunteer trainings will take place on each morning of the event.
Citywide Finals Dates:
Tuesday, February 21: 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
DC We the People High School Citywide Finals
Georgetown Law School
Wednesday, February 22: 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
DC We the People Middle School Citywide Finals
Georgetown Law School
To respond to this invitation, please complete the online form using the links in this email by February 18, 2012. Once we receive your confirmation, we will provide you with directions and logistics, the We the People textbook (if requested), and materials further illustrating the volunteer job descriptions. If you have any questions, please contact Kelly at 540-672-2728 ext 202, or kcbooz@montpelier.org, or Jen at 540-672-2728 ext 205, or jhowell@montpelier.org.
Job Announcement - Business Manager, CuDC
Cultural Development Corporation(CuDC), a non-profit organization dedicated to making space for art, is seeking a Business Manager. This full-time position provides reliable and accurate record-keeping in all matters affecting the financial position of Cultural Development Corporation. The Business Manager will manage human resources, risk management and bookkeeping functions.
Responsibilities
Manage human resources functions, including payroll and benefits; Maintain accuracy and compliance with Employee Handbook; Maintain personnel files; Manage bookkeeping functions, including: (Performing accounting system entry and maintenance; Managing accounts receivable and accounts payable; Monitoring account balances and reconcile bank accounts; Preparing and reviewing financial statements); Coordinate preparation of annual budget; Oversee external auditors throughout the audit process and preparation of tax forms; General administrative support, as needed.
Qualifications: 3–5 years of relevant experience, including nonprofit accounting • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Arts Administration or related field • CPA and Quickbooks Certified Pro-Advisor desirable • Exceptional organizational and time management skills • Excellent communication, analytical and mathematical skills • Experience with QuickBooks Pro, Raiser's Edge and Microsoft Office preferred • Ability and willingness to work flexibly in a growing non-profit environment
Salary: $45,000 plus benefits
To apply, submit a résumé with cover letter to:
Cultural Development Corporation
Attn: Business Manager Search
916 G Street NW - Washington, DC 20001
hr@culturaldc.org
Fax: 202.315.1303
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. http://www.culturaldc.org/involved/employment.html#BM
Summer Employment and Internships at The Theatre Lab 1
EMPLOYMENT: Summer Technical Director - The Theatre Lab, Washington's largest theatre school, seeks part-time Technical Director for summer teen productions of Parade, Urinetown, and Off a Broken Road. Work with professional lighting designer and supervise a team of tech interns in 150-seat theatre space. June 18-Aug 11. Approx 30 hrs/week (mostly daytime M-F; flexible schedule). Experience in scenic carpentry and painting desired. Access to a personal vehicle preferred but not required. $3000 stipend.
To apply for the TD position, email resume and brief cover letter to Jeff Scott, jeff@theatrelab.org
INTERNSHIP: Technical Theatre - Work under the supervision of the summer technical director and gain valuable experience building sets, painting, and assisting with lighting, sound, and/or costumes. June 18-August 11 (mostly daytime M-F; flexible schedule). Small stipend available.
INTERNSHIP: Theatre Education - Work in our award-winning Summer Acting Camp for Kids with children ages 6-12. Camp runs in 2 week sessions M-F from June 18-August 24 (possible to only work a session or two). Small stipend available.
To apply for the Technical Theatre or Theatre Education internships, email Amal, amal@theatrelab.org for an application form.
3rd Annual Jack and Jill Montgomery County Maryland Chapter Spelling Bee, Oratorical Competition and Poetry Competition
Registration is still open for the 3rd Annual Jack and Jill Montgomery County Maryland Chapter Spelling Bee, Oratorical Competition and Poetry Competition event. The event is open to Montgomery County residents, only, in grades 1 through 12. The Competition will be held on Saturday, February 25, 1 p.m. to 5 pm, The Georgetown Preparatory School, The Figge Theatre, 10900 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda, MD 20852.
Registration forms can be downloaded at http://www.jackandjill-mcmc.org/spellingbee. Email questions to JJMCMCBee@gmail.com.
Next week on February 21 and 22, the Center for the Constitution at James Madison's Montpelier will host the We the People DC High School and Middle School Citywide Finals at Georgetown Law School. We are writing to ask for your assistance at one or both of these events. We still need a few more volunteers to help these exceptional students. Can you help?
Click here, to VOLUNTEERhttp://montpelier.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b69a409a9782a3e95a1e1cb66&id=032faf1579&e=4cf0e3c138
The Center for the Constitution at James Madison's Montpelier will host these competitions, which serve its mission by engaging students on their knowledge and understanding of the history and principles of our Constitution and Bill of Rights. As the DC We the People Coordinators, we would be honored if you would invest your time as a volunteer for DC's incredible students.
As you may recall, the We the People competition takes the format of a simulated congressional hearing, which involves middle and high school classes presenting testimony and answering questions about historical, political, and constitutional issues before a panel of three judges acting as a congressional committee. To make the competitions a success, we need judges, timers, and facilitators for the two citywide finals competitions.
About the Citywide Finals on February 21-22, 2012: The Center for the Constitution would like to thank Richard Roe of Georgetown Law for his support. Both State Finals will take place in classrooms at Georgetown Law. The Center will cover breakfast and lunch for the volunteers on each day of the competition. Volunteer trainings will take place on each morning of the event.
Citywide Finals Dates:
Tuesday, February 21: 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
DC We the People High School Citywide Finals
Georgetown Law School
Wednesday, February 22: 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
DC We the People Middle School Citywide Finals
Georgetown Law School
To respond to this invitation, please complete the online form using the links in this email by February 18, 2012. Once we receive your confirmation, we will provide you with directions and logistics, the We the People textbook (if requested), and materials further illustrating the volunteer job descriptions. If you have any questions, please contact Kelly at 540-672-2728 ext 202, or kcbooz@montpelier.org, or Jen at 540-672-2728 ext 205, or jhowell@montpelier.org.
Job Announcement - Business Manager, CuDC
Cultural Development Corporation(CuDC), a non-profit organization dedicated to making space for art, is seeking a Business Manager. This full-time position provides reliable and accurate record-keeping in all matters affecting the financial position of Cultural Development Corporation. The Business Manager will manage human resources, risk management and bookkeeping functions.
Responsibilities
Manage human resources functions, including payroll and benefits; Maintain accuracy and compliance with Employee Handbook; Maintain personnel files; Manage bookkeeping functions, including: (Performing accounting system entry and maintenance; Managing accounts receivable and accounts payable; Monitoring account balances and reconcile bank accounts; Preparing and reviewing financial statements); Coordinate preparation of annual budget; Oversee external auditors throughout the audit process and preparation of tax forms; General administrative support, as needed.
Qualifications: 3–5 years of relevant experience, including nonprofit accounting • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Arts Administration or related field • CPA and Quickbooks Certified Pro-Advisor desirable • Exceptional organizational and time management skills • Excellent communication, analytical and mathematical skills • Experience with QuickBooks Pro, Raiser's Edge and Microsoft Office preferred • Ability and willingness to work flexibly in a growing non-profit environment
Salary: $45,000 plus benefits
To apply, submit a résumé with cover letter to:
Cultural Development Corporation
Attn: Business Manager Search
916 G Street NW - Washington, DC 20001
hr@culturaldc.org
Fax: 202.315.1303
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. http://www.culturaldc.org/involved/employment.html#BM
Summer Employment and Internships at The Theatre Lab 1
EMPLOYMENT: Summer Technical Director - The Theatre Lab, Washington's largest theatre school, seeks part-time Technical Director for summer teen productions of Parade, Urinetown, and Off a Broken Road. Work with professional lighting designer and supervise a team of tech interns in 150-seat theatre space. June 18-Aug 11. Approx 30 hrs/week (mostly daytime M-F; flexible schedule). Experience in scenic carpentry and painting desired. Access to a personal vehicle preferred but not required. $3000 stipend.
To apply for the TD position, email resume and brief cover letter to Jeff Scott, jeff@theatrelab.org
INTERNSHIP: Technical Theatre - Work under the supervision of the summer technical director and gain valuable experience building sets, painting, and assisting with lighting, sound, and/or costumes. June 18-August 11 (mostly daytime M-F; flexible schedule). Small stipend available.
INTERNSHIP: Theatre Education - Work in our award-winning Summer Acting Camp for Kids with children ages 6-12. Camp runs in 2 week sessions M-F from June 18-August 24 (possible to only work a session or two). Small stipend available.
To apply for the Technical Theatre or Theatre Education internships, email Amal, amal@theatrelab.org for an application form.
3rd Annual Jack and Jill Montgomery County Maryland Chapter Spelling Bee, Oratorical Competition and Poetry Competition
Registration is still open for the 3rd Annual Jack and Jill Montgomery County Maryland Chapter Spelling Bee, Oratorical Competition and Poetry Competition event. The event is open to Montgomery County residents, only, in grades 1 through 12. The Competition will be held on Saturday, February 25, 1 p.m. to 5 pm, The Georgetown Preparatory School, The Figge Theatre, 10900 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda, MD 20852.
Registration forms can be downloaded at http://www.jackandjill-mcmc.org/spellingbee. Email questions to JJMCMCBee@gmail.com.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
The 2012 Interactive Board of Education Candidate Forums
The 2012
Interactive Board of Education Candidate Forums
Special Incumbent Forum
Candidates:
Edward Burroughs : District 8 (Invited)
Patricia Eubanks: District 4 (Invited)
Henry Armwood: District 7 (Invited)
Verjeana Jacobs: District 5 (Invited)
Date: March 11, 2012
Time: 8pm-9:10pm
Location: Parent Talk Live
Call in Number: (914) 803-4591
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/03/04/parent-talk-live-the-pgcps-boe-candidate-forum-five
Participate/Submit Questions via Tweeter: http://twitter.com/DrMikeRobinson
Participate/Submit Questions via Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrMikeRobinson
Forum One
Candidates:
David Murray: District 1 (Confirmed)
Dennis Smith: District 4 (Confirmed)
Orlando Bego: District 8 (Confirmed)
Date: February 15, 2012
Time: 8pm-9:10pm
Location: Parent Talk Live
Call in Number: (914) 803-4591
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/02/16/parent-talk-live-the-pgcps-boe-candidate-forum-one
Participate/Submit Questions via Tweeter: http://twitter.com/DrMikeRobinson
Participate/Submit Questions via Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrMikeRobinson
Forum Two
Candidates:
Mike McLaughlin: District 1 (Confirmed)
Joseph Kitchen: District 4 (Invited)
Raaheela Ahmed: District 5 (Confirmed)
Date: February 22, 2012
Time: 8pm-9:10pm
Location: Parent Talk Live
Call in Number: (914) 803-4591
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/02/23/parent-talk-live-the-pgcps-boe-candidate-forum-two
Participate/Submit Questions via Tweeter: http://twitter.com/DrMikeRobinson
Participate/Submit Questions via Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrMikeRobinson
Forum Three
Candidates:
Carlette Fellows: District 7 (Confirmed)
Andre` Nothingham: District 8 (Confirmed)
Sherine Taylor: District 5 (Confirmed)
Date: February 26, 2012
Time: 8pm-9:10pm
Location: Parent Talk Live
Call in Number: (914) 803-4591
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/02/26/parent-talk-live-the-pgcps-boe-candidate-forum-three
Participate/Submit Questions via Tweeter: http://twitter.com/DrMikeRobinson
Participate/Submit Questions via Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrMikeRobinson
Forum Four
Candidates:
Lydia Walker-Thompson: District 7 (Invited)
Deidre Jackson: District 5 (Invited)
Sandy Vaughns: District 4 (Confirmed)
Date: February 29, 2012
Time: 8pm-9:10pm
Location: Parent Talk Live
Call in Number: (914) 803-4591
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/02/29/parent-talk-live-the-pgcps-boe-candidate-forum-four
Participate/Submit Questions via Tweeter: http://twitter.com/DrMikeRobinson
Participate/Submit Questions via Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrMikeRobinson
Forum Five
Candidates:
Micah Watson: District 4 (Confirmed)
John E. Richardson: District 7 (Invited)
Sharon Lewis: District 5 (Confirmed)
Date: March 4, 2012
Time: 8pm-9:10pm
Location: Parent Talk Live
Call in Number: (914) 803-4591
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/03/04/parent-talk-live-the-pgcps-boe-candidate-forum-five
Participate/Submit Questions via Tweeter: http://twitter.com/DrMikeRobinson
Participate/Submit Questions via Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrMikeRobinson
Interactive Board of Education Candidate Forums
Special Incumbent Forum
Candidates:
Edward Burroughs : District 8 (Invited)
Patricia Eubanks: District 4 (Invited)
Henry Armwood: District 7 (Invited)
Verjeana Jacobs: District 5 (Invited)
Date: March 11, 2012
Time: 8pm-9:10pm
Location: Parent Talk Live
Call in Number: (914) 803-4591
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/03/04/parent-talk-live-the-pgcps-boe-candidate-forum-five
Participate/Submit Questions via Tweeter: http://twitter.com/DrMikeRobinson
Participate/Submit Questions via Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrMikeRobinson
Forum One
Candidates:
David Murray: District 1 (Confirmed)
Dennis Smith: District 4 (Confirmed)
Orlando Bego: District 8 (Confirmed)
Date: February 15, 2012
Time: 8pm-9:10pm
Location: Parent Talk Live
Call in Number: (914) 803-4591
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/02/16/parent-talk-live-the-pgcps-boe-candidate-forum-one
Participate/Submit Questions via Tweeter: http://twitter.com/DrMikeRobinson
Participate/Submit Questions via Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrMikeRobinson
Forum Two
Candidates:
Mike McLaughlin: District 1 (Confirmed)
Joseph Kitchen: District 4 (Invited)
Raaheela Ahmed: District 5 (Confirmed)
Date: February 22, 2012
Time: 8pm-9:10pm
Location: Parent Talk Live
Call in Number: (914) 803-4591
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/02/23/parent-talk-live-the-pgcps-boe-candidate-forum-two
Participate/Submit Questions via Tweeter: http://twitter.com/DrMikeRobinson
Participate/Submit Questions via Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrMikeRobinson
Forum Three
Candidates:
Carlette Fellows: District 7 (Confirmed)
Andre` Nothingham: District 8 (Confirmed)
Sherine Taylor: District 5 (Confirmed)
Date: February 26, 2012
Time: 8pm-9:10pm
Location: Parent Talk Live
Call in Number: (914) 803-4591
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/02/26/parent-talk-live-the-pgcps-boe-candidate-forum-three
Participate/Submit Questions via Tweeter: http://twitter.com/DrMikeRobinson
Participate/Submit Questions via Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrMikeRobinson
Forum Four
Candidates:
Lydia Walker-Thompson: District 7 (Invited)
Deidre Jackson: District 5 (Invited)
Sandy Vaughns: District 4 (Confirmed)
Date: February 29, 2012
Time: 8pm-9:10pm
Location: Parent Talk Live
Call in Number: (914) 803-4591
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/02/29/parent-talk-live-the-pgcps-boe-candidate-forum-four
Participate/Submit Questions via Tweeter: http://twitter.com/DrMikeRobinson
Participate/Submit Questions via Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrMikeRobinson
Forum Five
Candidates:
Micah Watson: District 4 (Confirmed)
John E. Richardson: District 7 (Invited)
Sharon Lewis: District 5 (Confirmed)
Date: March 4, 2012
Time: 8pm-9:10pm
Location: Parent Talk Live
Call in Number: (914) 803-4591
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/03/04/parent-talk-live-the-pgcps-boe-candidate-forum-five
Participate/Submit Questions via Tweeter: http://twitter.com/DrMikeRobinson
Participate/Submit Questions via Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrMikeRobinson
Kimberly K. Parker: Five Tips To Help Your Child Succeed
Like you, I strive very hard to ensure my children are given the tools to succeed not only academically but in life. I do not compromise on my expectations because I know they are capable of producing great work. This greatness is not merely defined by a high score, but more importantly the effort put forth to make the grade. Far be it from me to place the responsibility solely on them for I have a crucial role to play as well: I must be their most available and accessible advocate!
Working full time outside of the home while effectively managing the affairs of my home, taking care of my family, building a small publishing company, and actively engaging in community service does not excuse me from being involved in my children’s academics. In fact, it’s imperative that I make it a priority! Here are five ways I’ve learned to do just that:
1. Lead by example. “Do as I say and not as I do” is so passé! If you are teaching your children to prepare for the next school day the night before, you should not find yourself hopping out the door with one shoe on and applying make-up while driving down the street. It’s really hypocritical.
2. Be consistent. Children crave routine. In fact, it helps them to begin developing their own set of priorities and management skills. Of course there will be a caveat…or two…on occasion, but a change in plans every day? No!
3. Stay informed. It is a real waste of energy to berate your child for the failing grade they earned when all you had to do was stay in the know. No one expects you to be at the school as if you work there, but you can make an appointment to review their cumulative folder, meet with the teacher, and sit in on a class. At the very least, send an email at least twice a week and plug into SchoolMax daily on the PGCPS.org “Parent” link to keep up with assignments, grades, and disciplinary action.
4. Teach autonomy. In short, cut the apron strings. Instead of waking them up every morning, teach them how to use an alarm clock. Trust me: they don’t need you as much as you think they do.
5. Make time for fun. All work and no play makes for a stressed overachiever. Monopoly®, Uno®, and good ol’ “Hide-and-Go-Seek” are proven stress busters!
Kimberly K. Parker is the President and CEO of Writing Momma Publishing, LLC (www.writingmomma.com). To date, she has written three books and has helped nine children between the ages of nine and nineteen write and publish books of their own. Leave a comment about this blog below and visit Kimberly’s website at www.writingmomma.com. Once there, sign up to receive her monthly newsletter. In return, Kimberly will give you a collection of her inspirational postcards “Keep It Moving with Kimberly!” while supplies last. Kimberly is a professional writer, author, publisher, and blogger living in Maryland with her husband and three children.
Parent Talk Live: The PGCPS BOE Candidate Forum One
Dr. Mike Robinson, president of Parents and PGCPS and host of Parent Talk Live will facilitate a series of on air candidate forums with as many of the new candidates for the Prince George’s County Public Schools Board of Education as possible over the next several weeks.
Dr. Robinson will not focus on incumbent BOE members as their views and opinions are well chronicled in their community engagement activities and their votes on key items during board meetings over the past year and a half can be heard on webcast of past BOE meetings.
David Murray: District 1
Orlando Bego: District 8
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Nakia T. Ngwala: Community Advocate
Good morning Neighbors,
Please see the attached fliers of some legislative nights that will be occurring in Annapolis during the second week of March 2012.
· Monday, March 5, 2012 – Maryland Legislative District 24’s Night in Annapolis, Miller Senate Office Building, Senate West, Annapolis, MD 21401, 6 PM – 8 PM
· Wednesday, March 7, 2012 – Prince George’s County Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and Men Aiming Higher Legislative Night, Maryland House of Delegates, Lowe House Office Building, Room 180, 6 Bladen Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, 6 PM - 9 PM
Thank you and please share.
Nakia T. Ngwala
Community Advocate
Prince George's County, Maryland
Tel: (240) 398-0505
Email: nakia.ngwala@nakiangwala.org
Web: www.nakiangwala.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Nakia-T-Ngwala/217883952467
Parent Talk Live: The Advocacy of Education
Parent Talk Live, hosted by Dr. Mike Robinson discussed the need and importance to improve schools in Prince George’s County and across Maryland with Mr. Curtis Valentine, the founding executive director of MarylandCAN:
The MarylandCAN Campaign for Achievement Now, a new advocacy organization building a movement of Marylanders with the political will to enact smart public policies so that every Maryland child has access to a great public school.
To hear this informative discussion on how MarylandCAN is seeking to change the face of education through community advocacy and a comprehensive legislative agenda, click the below.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/educationaljournal/2012/02/15/parent-talk-live-marylandcan
Suspend as a last resort
Thousands of children too young to understand right from wrong are being suspended from school.
A Washington Post analysis of data for the region's school system found that last school year more than 6,112 elementary students, from prekindergarten through grade five, were suspended or expelled for hitting, disrupting, disrespecting, fighting and other offenses. That includes 50 prekindergarteners, 433 kindergartners and 677 first-graders.
In the most recent data from the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights, more than 3 million students are suspended at least once a year and more than 100,000 are expelled. In Chicago, out-of-school suspensions quadrupled to 93,212 between 2001 and 2007. In Pennsylvania, school-based arrests almost tripled between 1999 and 2006, to 12,918.
The reason for so much lost class time is strict disciplinary measures that began in the 1990s. They became stricter after April 20, 1999, when Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris walked into Columbine High School and killed 12 students and a teacher. School shootings have created an era of zero-tolerance policies in many schools.
But researchers question whether children in the early grades should ever be suspended. The goal should be teaching appropriate behavior. Still educators see suspension as necessary to remove students who cause a disruption in class and to send a strong message about conduct.
Prekindergarteners and those in early elementary classes don't understand suspension. Schools are sending home children who are struggling with social-emotional skills. They lose instruction time and fall behind in classes. No research indicates that suspensions improve a child's behavior or make schools safer.
The Maryland State Board of Education is considering proposals to end suspensions for nonviolent offenses and federal officials have started considering reforming guidelines.
Educators must carefully consider each case and look to other options — involving parents and counselors — before suspension. It should never be done lightly. But if teachers and principals have tried everything they can, and it is serious behavior, then they must be able to suspend children. We must support their efforts to keep violence out of schools.
A Washington Post analysis of data for the region's school system found that last school year more than 6,112 elementary students, from prekindergarten through grade five, were suspended or expelled for hitting, disrupting, disrespecting, fighting and other offenses. That includes 50 prekindergarteners, 433 kindergartners and 677 first-graders.
In the most recent data from the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights, more than 3 million students are suspended at least once a year and more than 100,000 are expelled. In Chicago, out-of-school suspensions quadrupled to 93,212 between 2001 and 2007. In Pennsylvania, school-based arrests almost tripled between 1999 and 2006, to 12,918.
The reason for so much lost class time is strict disciplinary measures that began in the 1990s. They became stricter after April 20, 1999, when Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris walked into Columbine High School and killed 12 students and a teacher. School shootings have created an era of zero-tolerance policies in many schools.
But researchers question whether children in the early grades should ever be suspended. The goal should be teaching appropriate behavior. Still educators see suspension as necessary to remove students who cause a disruption in class and to send a strong message about conduct.
Prekindergarteners and those in early elementary classes don't understand suspension. Schools are sending home children who are struggling with social-emotional skills. They lose instruction time and fall behind in classes. No research indicates that suspensions improve a child's behavior or make schools safer.
The Maryland State Board of Education is considering proposals to end suspensions for nonviolent offenses and federal officials have started considering reforming guidelines.
Educators must carefully consider each case and look to other options — involving parents and counselors — before suspension. It should never be done lightly. But if teachers and principals have tried everything they can, and it is serious behavior, then they must be able to suspend children. We must support their efforts to keep violence out of schools.
Poll: Are Kindergartener Suspensions Helpful or Hurtful?
By Jenni Pompi
Dozens of the area's littlest learners were sent home from school early or outright suspended for misbehavior last year, reported The Washington Post.
According to The Washington Post, more than 2,000 students were suspended from Prince George's County public elementary schools, including 94 children enrolled in kindergarten or pre-kindergarten.
A. Duane Arbogast, chief academic officer for Prince George's County schools, said that the 94 students represent about 1 percent of the students enrolled, and that he does not find such a small number surprising.
Some parents and critics question the effectiveness of suspending children at such a young age, with studies showing that the suspensions do not improve behavior. Such behavior can actually be a sign of academic gaps, Sara Rimm-Kaufman, associate professor of education at University of Virginia, told the Post.
Still others feel that a disruptive or aggressive child should be removed from the classroom no matter his or her age, particularly when there is physical violence involved and teachers and administrators feel they have explored every other option.
The Maryland State Board of Education is currently considering proposals to eliminate suspensions for non-violent behaviors. Arbogast said that suspensions are only one of the tools used by local educators and that they should be issued strategically.
Read the full article on the Washington Post and tell us in the comments what you think about local elementary schools suspending pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students.
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Photos of the 2010 Parental Engagement Conference
