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Teaching in Contemporary Times
We explore why individuals choose teaching, illuminating intrinsic motivations, the influence of role models, the pursuit of lifelong learning, and the aspiration to impact society.

We hold teachers and the profession of teaching in high regard. In fact, teachers are often considered the bedrock of any progressive society. Teachers wield the power to mold young minds and shape the future. Serving as guiding lights for students, teachers play a critical role in fostering intellectual growth and nurturing curiosity. Despite being a demanding career choice, the allure of teaching lies in its potential to influence, inspire, and ignite a love for learning.

Why People Become Teachers

Why would anybody want to join an underpaid profession, micromanaged and often disrespected? It's an interesting question in 2024. On the other hand, when you look at the reasons from an altruistic perspective, motivation, role models, lifelong learning, and influence all come into play. So, let's look at each of these reasons.

Intrinsic Motivation: A key driving factor that compels many individuals to enter the teaching profession is the intrinsic satisfaction of educating young minds. As per the study by Klassen et al. (2012), teachers often express immense gratification in witnessing their students' academic and personal growth. This emotional reward, they argue, is a major motivating factor. I personally can attest to this motivating factor. It certainly wasn't the financial compensation that made me want to teach.

Role Models: Men and women who have taught us often leave lasting impressions. Such role models can inspire individuals to become teachers. Positive experiences with former teachers are some of the reasons

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Public Schools in a Minute

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Public Schools in a Minute
Explore the diverse world of public schools in a minute! Our brief overview provides a snapshot of the educational landscape, school districts, curriculum, and more. Get a quick glance at the big picture of K-12 education.

History of Public Education

The first schools in colonial America were private. Public schools per se came much later on in the 19th century. A History of Public Schools offers a comprehensive overview of the subject.

Funding and Budgeting

U.S. public schools are funded by local property taxes supplemented by funding from state and private sources. 92% of public school funding comes from non-federal sources. An Overview of the Funding of Public Schools explains how the system works. Here are two examples of school district budgets to illustrate the disparity regarding funding between a large urban school district and a small rural school district.

Large School District (Example):

Total Annual Budget: $1.2 billion

Sources of Funding:

  • State Funding: $700 million
  • Local Property Taxes: $300 million
  • Federal Grants: $150 million
  • Other Sources (e.g., donations, grants): $50 million

Expenditure Breakdown:

  • Instructional Costs (teachers, textbooks, supplies): $600 million
  • Administrative Costs (salaries, facilities, utilities): $200 million
  • Student Support Services (counseling, special education): $150 million
  • Transportation: $50 million
  • Building Maintenance: $50 million
  • Extracurricular Activities: $30 million
  • Debt Service: $20 million
  • Reserves and Contingencies: $50 million

Compare this hypothetical budget with the actual 2023-24 budget of the Houston ISD.

Small School District (Example):

Total Annual Budget: $10 million

Sources of Funding:

  • State Funding: $5 million
  • Local Property Taxes: $3 million
  • Federal Grants: $1 million
  • Other Sources (e.g., donations, grants): $1 million

Expenditure Breakdown:

  • Instructional Costs (teachers, textbooks, supplies): $4 million
  • Administrative Costs (salaries, facilities, utilities): $1 million
  • Student Support Services (counseling, special education): $500,000
  • Transportation: $150,000
  • Building Maintenance: $200,000
  • Extracurricular Activities: $50,000
  • Debt
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Demystifying IEPs

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Demystifying IEPs
Unlock the power of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in this comprehensive guide. Discover how IEPs support students with diverse needs, including behavioral challenges. This article is a must-read for parents navigating the education system and aspiring teachers seeking to make a positive impact.

Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) have been a game-changer in education, offering tailored support to students with a wide range of special needs. From students with learning disabilities to those struggling with behavior, IEPs have played a pivotal role in ensuring every child receives a quality education. This guide will demystify IEPs and explore how they benefit students, especially those facing behavioral challenges.

Understanding the Origin of IEPs

The roots of IEPs can be traced back to the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, now known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), signed into law in 1975. This groundbreaking legislation mandated that students with disabilities, including those with behavioral challenges, have the right to a free and appropriate public education tailored to their unique needs. The development of IEPs was a critical component of this law, ensuring that students received individualized support plans to help them succeed academically and behaviorally.

In special education, there's too much emphasis on the deficit and not enough on the strength.

Temple Grandin

The IEP Basics: What Parents Need to Know

For parents, understanding the basics of IEPs is essential. An IEP is a legally binding document that outlines a student's unique learning and support needs and the services and accommodations they will receive. It's a roadmap to success, customized to each child. The IEP process typically involves assessment, goal setting, and regular review meetings.

This video explains what an IEP is.

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Not Just for College: A Guide to K-12 Scholarships

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Not Just for College: A Guide to K-12 Scholarships
Explore the world of scholarships designed specifically for K-12 students in this comprehensive guide. Discover opportunities to ease the financial burden of private education and pave the way for academic success.

When "scholarship" is mentioned, many people immediately think of college tuition. However, many need to realize that scholarships for K -12 students are a growing trend, providing financial assistance for everything from tuition to extracurricular activities and educational travel. This guide highlights these opportunities that can significantly benefit parents and students alike.

Many accomplished individuals, including celebrities and leaders in various fields, have benefited from scholarships during their educational journeys. For instance, former First Lady Michelle Obama received a scholarship that helped her attend Princeton University, paving the way for her remarkable career in law and advocacy. Another notable example is Nobel laureate and renowned physicist Albert Einstein, who received a scholarship to attend the Swiss Federal Polytechnic School, setting the stage for his groundbreaking scientific contributions. These stories demonstrate how scholarships can empower students to reach their full potential and make a lasting impact on the world.

When seeking scholarships, being organized and persistent is key to success. It's not a one-and-done situation; it requires a strategic and sustained effort. Imagine it as a marathon rather than a sprint. To maximize your chances of securing financial aid, you should set aside time each week to research and apply for scholarships. Aim to submit 2 or 3 scholarship applications consistently over 6 to 8 weeks. This approach allows you to cast a wide net and increase your chances of receiving funding. Stay organized by creating a calendar or spreadsheet to track application deadlines, requirements, and submission status. Persistence

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Preparing for a Successful 'Back to School'

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Preparing for a Successful 'Back to School'
A one-stop guide for parents navigating the 'back to school' season, providing practical and effective strategies tailored to every grade level - from pre-K to high school.

The start of a new school year can bring a mix of emotions for parents and children - from excitement and anticipation to anxiety and fear of the unknown. It's also a time when parents have to buy school supplies, clothes, uniforms, smart devices, and more. This article, however, will focus on the transition from being away from school to resuming the structured routine that is the essence of a public school education.

With some preparation, navigating this transition smoothly and setting your child up for success in their new grade is possible. Here's how to tackle the 'back to school' season, regardless of your child's grade level or family's circumstances.

With fears and potential adaptations still ahead for parents and children, return to school is always a time when parents and teachers revisit what is important for children and how to best support their positive development. Marilyn Price-Mitchell

PK-Kindergarten

Building a Routine

For many children, starting pre-K or kindergarten is their first taste of a structured daily routine. Establishing and practicing routines - like a consistent bedtime and a morning routine that includes getting dressed, brushing teeth, and eating breakfast - can help your child adjust more easily to the school day. Creating a visual schedule or using alarms and reminders can be valuable in maintaining consistency for families with single parents or busy schedules.

Reading Readiness

Strengthening pre-literacy skills can set the foundation for academic success. Simple activities like reading to your child daily, practicing

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Explore the diverse world of public schools in a minute! Our brief overview provides a snapshot of the educational landscape, school districts, curriculum, and more. Get a quick glance at the big picture of K-12 education.