#17 Standards

Whoever came up with these leadership standards has too much time on their hands. I mean who comes up with these descriptions. No normal person can really grasp what they are asking for. The purpose of the standards should be to guide students to be better leaders. These standards seem like the state department wants to see how many hoops they can make us jump through. 62 standards seems like a bit much don't you think? It would benefit me more to to have a longer internship. Just a thought from a guy who does not like portfolios.

#15 Special Olympics

I had the pleasure a few weeks ago of attending the Special Olympics at Milton Frank Stadium in Huntsville, AL. This event is a very special event and one that is very close to my heart. My wife and I got to attend together and transport students from Buckhorn High School to the event. The day was beautiful and the students that were competing were extraordinary in every aspect. Both of us work closely with our learning community and have a passion for helping these students.

The amazing part of the day is seeing how the Madison County School Family came out in full force to support the students. I saw the superintendent, directors, principals, teachers, students, and maintenance workers stop by to participate. This says a lot about the people I work with and the people that make the decisions about the well being of our kids. Our bosses took time out of their day for a good cause and to have a little fun. Special Olympics brings out the best in all of us. It is something that I recommend everyone attend.

#16 Old Technology

What do we do with old technology? We first need to determine if the old technology is still viable or has a practical use for us. Just because the technology is deemed old does not mean that it can not still be helpful in the education process. Too many times we are quick to dismiss things that are useful because it is not the latest and greatest. If we find the technology to be outdated and of no use to us than we should look for ways to upgrade it or recycle it. I am sure that we throw a lot of good things away that others would die for. As an administrator I think that a policy should be established in the school that addresses these matters. I would create a rubric to assess the viability of the technology. Questions would include:
1. Does the teacher use the technology?
2. Is the technology helping to enhance learning?
3. Is replacing the technology cost effective and beneficial?
4. What does research say about the old technology?