I subscribed to a variety of topics that interest me as an elementary teacher in a charter school. Edutopia has a great selection of topics out there to keep teachers well informed about the hot topics in education, great ideas being shared by other educators on lessons and classroom management, and new technologies being used in the classrooms and their applications. There is sooooo much information out there to keep one on the computer for hours and I can see how one would have to manage their time wisely so they didn't become a "well informed hermit".
Because I am a teacher at a charter school and have heard my share of negative comments about the charter school system from other teacher acquaintances of mine, I responded to a blog about charter schools and how they don't live up to expectations, how they hire alternative teachers and teachers who are not highly qualified to teach, and other negative talk. I responded back that there are plenty of schools that are failing and many more that are performing wonderfully in both the charter and public school systems. I feel it is as unfair to lump all charter schools together just like it is unfair to lump all public schools together in one group. Every school delivers a different educational setting for its students and their families. Not every school is the perfect fit for every student. Education is not a one size fits all match.
This is the first time I've been involve with blogging. I think I could become "hooked" on it. It's pretty cool to know that you have a voice and you can publish your opinions and knowledge out there on the webisphere.
Charter schools have gotten some bad press, but unfortunately the ones who are doing a good job are not written about. There are several in my area who have wonderful teachers who are very dedicated and the students are really lucky to be going to school there.
ReplyDeleteRSS feeds are very helpful when you are watching a topic. I have recipe feeds come in which I love because it gives me ideas on what to cook that night.