Check out the Southwest web site. However, it will be changing in the next weeks. We are moving to a different look and hopefully easier for you to use. Mike Ries our Media Specialist is spending the summer and a long of effort into making the site better.
What are some of your ideas? What do you like? What can't you find? How can we make the site more useful to you?
Clubs and sports post lots of pictures and other useful information on the web site throughout the year. But if you can't find it, then it isn't that useful. We can always use ideas and if you have the time, your skills to assist in working with the web site.
Right now on the site there is information about opportunities for the summer. A video loop about the IB Learner Profile and pictures from our recent Academic Performance reception.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
Summer is the exploration time
The Southwest Community Education Summer program is a huge success every year. It is a complete joy to watch the smiles and hear the noises of joy as the little ones march through the building, dance to the music or parade to the lake for fishing and other exciting adventures.
Young children remind us of the thrill of learning and new discovery. Their entire body is alive with energy as they try new things, make new friends and explore the world of grass and lakes and paint and all the stuff little ones do. Summer is the time of discovery and exploration. It is a time to run, twist and turn almost uncontrolled as the winter limits of cold and heavy clothes keep up from doing.
In these summer months we need to re-find our youth. We need to go to new places and explore new sights. The city parks are full of summer fun and evening concerts. The museums and zoos are great places to be young and see anew. Exploring and smiling should have no age limit. Finding joy in the waters and exhibits does not need to be reserved for the young. Release your mind to look at the world in fresh, uncomplicated ways just for a moment, for an afternoon.
School's Out For The Summer is classic that makes reference to a mindset as well as a calendar reminder. The next tasks to to see how long we can maintain that thrill of exploration and learning.
Young children remind us of the thrill of learning and new discovery. Their entire body is alive with energy as they try new things, make new friends and explore the world of grass and lakes and paint and all the stuff little ones do. Summer is the time of discovery and exploration. It is a time to run, twist and turn almost uncontrolled as the winter limits of cold and heavy clothes keep up from doing.
In these summer months we need to re-find our youth. We need to go to new places and explore new sights. The city parks are full of summer fun and evening concerts. The museums and zoos are great places to be young and see anew. Exploring and smiling should have no age limit. Finding joy in the waters and exhibits does not need to be reserved for the young. Release your mind to look at the world in fresh, uncomplicated ways just for a moment, for an afternoon.
School's Out For The Summer is classic that makes reference to a mindset as well as a calendar reminder. The next tasks to to see how long we can maintain that thrill of exploration and learning.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Keep Reading
So you still are looking at which book should be part of that summer reading package.
The Once and Future Celt is on the sophomore list.
Don't let the first few pages fool you. So the first couple are a little strange and slow. Keep with it and I think you will enjoy the time. Maybe a time a little unfamiliar to us but at the same time a quality of memory especially for the young at heart. Sometimes it is the world and our own rushing around that makes us unable to hear... and remember.
The Once and Future Celt is on the sophomore list.
Don't let the first few pages fool you. So the first couple are a little strange and slow. Keep with it and I think you will enjoy the time. Maybe a time a little unfamiliar to us but at the same time a quality of memory especially for the young at heart. Sometimes it is the world and our own rushing around that makes us unable to hear... and remember.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
July 21 Meet the School Board Candidtes
Pre-Primary
MPS At-Large School Board Candidate Forum
Wednesday July 21st at Ramsey Fine Arts School Auditorium West 49th Street
- enter at door #1 on 50th street parking lot 6:30-8:30 pm
6:30-8:30 pm - Q&A, moderated by the League of Women Voters
8:30-9:00 pm - meet and greet with the candidates
Hosted by the Kingfield and Lyndale Neighborhood Associations, Bryant Neighborhood Organization, League of Women Voters of Minneapolis, Southwest Journal and Minneapolis Public Schools Zone 3
Ten at-large candidates running for school board will be speaking to the public regarding their interests in running for the MPS School Board and their talents for serving in this challenging position. Candidates will all be invited to submit a written bio and answer two district-centric questions; to learn more about the candidates before the forum you can read this information at the Southwest Journal online beginning July 12. Alternatively you can pick up a hard copy at the Kingfield Farmers' Market on Sunday July 18, 8:30am - 1:30pm, 4310 Nicollet Avenue South.
Candidates will each be given time to answer a predetermined question to give attendees a chance to view their ability to prepare and present their position on an issue publicly. During this section of the presentation questions will be collected from the audience and sorted by the League; the prevailing themes that emerge will determine which questions are directed to the candidates for the second hour of the forum. There will be a 30 minute meet and greet after the forum with the candidates.
This pre-primary forum is an important opportunity for citizens to gain knowledge on the candidates to assist with voting in the August 10 primary, where the pool will be narrowed from 10 candidates to 4.
MPS At-Large School Board Candidate Forum
Wednesday July 21st at Ramsey Fine Arts School Auditorium West 49th Street
- enter at door #1 on 50th street parking lot 6:30-8:30 pm
6:30-8:30 pm - Q&A, moderated by the League of Women Voters
8:30-9:00 pm - meet and greet with the candidates
Hosted by the Kingfield and Lyndale Neighborhood Associations, Bryant Neighborhood Organization, League of Women Voters of Minneapolis, Southwest Journal and Minneapolis Public Schools Zone 3
Ten at-large candidates running for school board will be speaking to the public regarding their interests in running for the MPS School Board and their talents for serving in this challenging position. Candidates will all be invited to submit a written bio and answer two district-centric questions; to learn more about the candidates before the forum you can read this information at the Southwest Journal online beginning July 12. Alternatively you can pick up a hard copy at the Kingfield Farmers' Market on Sunday July 18, 8:30am - 1:30pm, 4310 Nicollet Avenue South.
Candidates will each be given time to answer a predetermined question to give attendees a chance to view their ability to prepare and present their position on an issue publicly. During this section of the presentation questions will be collected from the audience and sorted by the League; the prevailing themes that emerge will determine which questions are directed to the candidates for the second hour of the forum. There will be a 30 minute meet and greet after the forum with the candidates.
This pre-primary forum is an important opportunity for citizens to gain knowledge on the candidates to assist with voting in the August 10 primary, where the pool will be narrowed from 10 candidates to 4.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Quick Fix and Complicated Problems - Blame the Doctor
I would not be the first to suggest that a major problem in our society right now is the quick fix syndrome. Everything has to have an instant (and usually simple) resolution. Regardless of how complicated, it has to be a "sound bite" solution.
The easiest way to reduce a problem to a simple solution is to make the problem simple. Don't like your medical report, must be a bad doctor. Don't like the education results, must be a bad teacher. Simple solution for a complicated problem. In the first example, it may be the lifestyle of the patient, the unwillingness of the patient to follow instructions or even possibly a whole series of life adjustments need to be made just to start. But that is too complicated to fit into a two inch newspaper column or a 60 second TV news story. So we move to a simple solution that may or may not have anything to do with resolution of the issues. Yes, there are bad doctors and yes, some need to be removed. Does increasing the number of years a doctor spend in school address the issue of unhealthy lifestyles?
In the second example ..... Well. I guess I don't need to repeat all the same sentences. Blame the teacher is an easy out - complicated issue, simple problem. Yes, there are bad teachers (and plumbers and lawyers and politicians, etc) but is fixing the teacher going to fix the unhealthy lifestyle. Will fixing the teacher empower parents and families to prepare their children for education?
Politicians and perhaps we voters don't ask the question of "so what?" If you pass this law or that one, will it fix the problem? If I follow your logic will the problem go away?
Until we address the issues of health, employment, housing and early childhood readiness, I suggest there will continue to be 16 year olds who drop out of school and can't read. Until we "fix" lifestyles and patterns of failure, no quick fix is going to produce the results we claim to want.
The easiest way to reduce a problem to a simple solution is to make the problem simple. Don't like your medical report, must be a bad doctor. Don't like the education results, must be a bad teacher. Simple solution for a complicated problem. In the first example, it may be the lifestyle of the patient, the unwillingness of the patient to follow instructions or even possibly a whole series of life adjustments need to be made just to start. But that is too complicated to fit into a two inch newspaper column or a 60 second TV news story. So we move to a simple solution that may or may not have anything to do with resolution of the issues. Yes, there are bad doctors and yes, some need to be removed. Does increasing the number of years a doctor spend in school address the issue of unhealthy lifestyles?
In the second example ..... Well. I guess I don't need to repeat all the same sentences. Blame the teacher is an easy out - complicated issue, simple problem. Yes, there are bad teachers (and plumbers and lawyers and politicians, etc) but is fixing the teacher going to fix the unhealthy lifestyle. Will fixing the teacher empower parents and families to prepare their children for education?
Politicians and perhaps we voters don't ask the question of "so what?" If you pass this law or that one, will it fix the problem? If I follow your logic will the problem go away?
Until we address the issues of health, employment, housing and early childhood readiness, I suggest there will continue to be 16 year olds who drop out of school and can't read. Until we "fix" lifestyles and patterns of failure, no quick fix is going to produce the results we claim to want.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Color Of Water
Just finished the Color Of Water by James McBride. This is one of the summer reading books for the tenth graders. There are five possibilities and Color Of Water is one of them. A good read and very interesting literary techniques. For those interested in creative writing is might be worth the read. It is a biography and autobiography. The style is back and forth reality and interview. The sub title makes reference to a son's tribute to his mother. That definitely is part of it. But it is a bigger book than that. Although tribute to our mother is a very worthy topic.
It is the story about a determined woman, an immigrant, a white woman out of place in her white world who found a place in the black world. It is the late 40's and moves through the 50's and 60's - probably too quickly. But it really is not the story of the ages but a story about the people and in particular a mother, a woman, a daughter.
The author is male and it would be interesting to chat with a female who read the story. I sometimes thin men think they know the feelings of motherhood and what it feels like to be a mother, but I wonder. Could be some interesting class discussions about the male and female viewpoint and perceptive,
Good, thought provoking book. I would suggest keeping notes about your feelings more than about the story line. How do you feel going through some of those events?
Have a good summer reading the Color Of Water or one of the other books on the 10th grade reading list.
I am just starting The Once and Future Celt. Will post first impressions after a couple chapters.
It is the story about a determined woman, an immigrant, a white woman out of place in her white world who found a place in the black world. It is the late 40's and moves through the 50's and 60's - probably too quickly. But it really is not the story of the ages but a story about the people and in particular a mother, a woman, a daughter.
The author is male and it would be interesting to chat with a female who read the story. I sometimes thin men think they know the feelings of motherhood and what it feels like to be a mother, but I wonder. Could be some interesting class discussions about the male and female viewpoint and perceptive,
Good, thought provoking book. I would suggest keeping notes about your feelings more than about the story line. How do you feel going through some of those events?
Have a good summer reading the Color Of Water or one of the other books on the 10th grade reading list.
I am just starting The Once and Future Celt. Will post first impressions after a couple chapters.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Thinking about improvements
Now that we have a little time it would be good to think about improvements for the coming school year. First I want to outline some of the biggies. Most of these will need community financial support.
Continuing improvement of instruction. We have some of the finest teachers, support staff and administrators around, but that doesn't mean we can't improve. A building instructional coach would be extremely helpful. This person would work with our entire staff and students in areas of improved instruction. Sometimes it is more than a single class or an individual teacher. It could coordination of services or communication or more directed and targeted interventions.
The creation of a writing lab and a math lab. These could be in operation a specific numbers of days per week. They could be both before and after school depending on available funding. These would be modeled after the college writing and math labs. They would be staffed by a teacher and several "expert" students as assistants. A student seeking help or guidance or more information would stop in, the problem would be identified and the student would be guided through the problem. The assistants could be trained in a cognitive coaching model to support them as they worked with other students.
A new electronic sign for the front yard. Communication continues to be a major problem in a big active school. A LED sign could be changed frequently, seen at all hours and improve getting the message out to all. Not only will that take money it will require a permit with support from neighbors.
Continuing efforts to deal with textbooks. One way to meet the forever demand is to eliminate textbooks and go to digital devises that would replace textbooks. Think of the cost of graphing calculators, six periods of textbooks and a personal laptop. It seems that we should be able to do better and more efficiently. Textbooks are out of date at the time of printing. Lost and damaged textbooks are a repeating expense. Not exactly sure what the answers might be but I know it will take funding and support and training. We are developing a technology committee to start work identifying some of the issues. If you interested in working with this committee, let me know.
More personal classrooms remain an issue. Reducing the size of the number of students enrolled in a class continues to be a discussion. First it is expensive. Second there is a debate as to what is the best number. Until the district funding formula changes, the class size will remain a discussion point at SW. However, we know that if we could add one or two more sections in each of the core classes, it would allow for more personal attention. That will require community funding to enable SW to put in place more sections.
Financial support for student activities. There are music boosters and friends of the theater but there needs to a significant increase in the financial support for student activities. these are important to students and maintain their active involvement in the school and community. No activity, even sports, do not meet budget through ticket sales alone. It takes other financial means to support a large program. I wish we could dip into the television contracts and those big dollars but that is not going to happen soon.
This a good starting point. What are your ideas or reactions to these?
Continuing improvement of instruction. We have some of the finest teachers, support staff and administrators around, but that doesn't mean we can't improve. A building instructional coach would be extremely helpful. This person would work with our entire staff and students in areas of improved instruction. Sometimes it is more than a single class or an individual teacher. It could coordination of services or communication or more directed and targeted interventions.
The creation of a writing lab and a math lab. These could be in operation a specific numbers of days per week. They could be both before and after school depending on available funding. These would be modeled after the college writing and math labs. They would be staffed by a teacher and several "expert" students as assistants. A student seeking help or guidance or more information would stop in, the problem would be identified and the student would be guided through the problem. The assistants could be trained in a cognitive coaching model to support them as they worked with other students.
A new electronic sign for the front yard. Communication continues to be a major problem in a big active school. A LED sign could be changed frequently, seen at all hours and improve getting the message out to all. Not only will that take money it will require a permit with support from neighbors.
Continuing efforts to deal with textbooks. One way to meet the forever demand is to eliminate textbooks and go to digital devises that would replace textbooks. Think of the cost of graphing calculators, six periods of textbooks and a personal laptop. It seems that we should be able to do better and more efficiently. Textbooks are out of date at the time of printing. Lost and damaged textbooks are a repeating expense. Not exactly sure what the answers might be but I know it will take funding and support and training. We are developing a technology committee to start work identifying some of the issues. If you interested in working with this committee, let me know.
More personal classrooms remain an issue. Reducing the size of the number of students enrolled in a class continues to be a discussion. First it is expensive. Second there is a debate as to what is the best number. Until the district funding formula changes, the class size will remain a discussion point at SW. However, we know that if we could add one or two more sections in each of the core classes, it would allow for more personal attention. That will require community funding to enable SW to put in place more sections.
Financial support for student activities. There are music boosters and friends of the theater but there needs to a significant increase in the financial support for student activities. these are important to students and maintain their active involvement in the school and community. No activity, even sports, do not meet budget through ticket sales alone. It takes other financial means to support a large program. I wish we could dip into the television contracts and those big dollars but that is not going to happen soon.
This a good starting point. What are your ideas or reactions to these?
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Aswar Rahman 2010 Southwest MN Boys State
Junior Aswar Rahman was the 2010 Southwest representative at this year's American legion Minnesota Boys State. Congratulations to Aswar for this prestigious honor. Only one junior high school male is selected to represent the various American Legion posts around the state. This year's event was held at Southwest Minnesota State University.
Aswar went into his party's nomination convention running for governor. Except for two votes he would have been the party's nominee. But he felt it was important for party unity and move aside. However, he was elected the mayor of his city. Aswar does works in Minneapolis City Hall and it does sound like a familiar Minneapolis story. I'm sure that was coincidence.
The event does not support any specific political party or ideology. The purpose is to explore the importance of citizen involvement in the political process and to promote more engagement of young people into the process.
The American legion also sponsors a Girl's state. At this time we are unaware of anyone attending representing Southwest. Next year's juniors need to think about the opportunity and in March apply to be the representative to Minnesota Girls or Boys State.
Aswar went into his party's nomination convention running for governor. Except for two votes he would have been the party's nominee. But he felt it was important for party unity and move aside. However, he was elected the mayor of his city. Aswar does works in Minneapolis City Hall and it does sound like a familiar Minneapolis story. I'm sure that was coincidence.
The event does not support any specific political party or ideology. The purpose is to explore the importance of citizen involvement in the political process and to promote more engagement of young people into the process.
The American legion also sponsors a Girl's state. At this time we are unaware of anyone attending representing Southwest. Next year's juniors need to think about the opportunity and in March apply to be the representative to Minnesota Girls or Boys State.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Summer is here
Well summer started a few weeks ago. Then we returned to spring and rains then August showed up with heat and humidity. Just in case that was not enough the weather spirits threw in a few storms. I am waiting on snowfall to add to the mix just to round out the move through four seasons in a matter of a few weeks.
In 72 days we will be back in school with the darlings in the halls. You know it will be sweltering by then and probably stay nice through October. But who is counting? Let's enjoy the couple months and let the weather be what it may.
Summer reading is always a good leisure time activity. Sophomores have several a choices and one is the Color Of Water. Good selection and interesting literary techniques of movement backward and forward in time and with the view point of different characters. If your 10th grader has not selected his/her boom yet, this might be one to check out.
By now the juniors and seniors have read a couple from the summer reading list. Will talk about some of those later. The summer is a time for renewal, reflection and relaxation. Might be the vitamin D from the sun or the change of pace or just having some more daylight hours. Never forget the family time and the creation of memories and stories to talk about years from now.
In 72 days we will be back in school with the darlings in the halls. You know it will be sweltering by then and probably stay nice through October. But who is counting? Let's enjoy the couple months and let the weather be what it may.
Summer reading is always a good leisure time activity. Sophomores have several a choices and one is the Color Of Water. Good selection and interesting literary techniques of movement backward and forward in time and with the view point of different characters. If your 10th grader has not selected his/her boom yet, this might be one to check out.
By now the juniors and seniors have read a couple from the summer reading list. Will talk about some of those later. The summer is a time for renewal, reflection and relaxation. Might be the vitamin D from the sun or the change of pace or just having some more daylight hours. Never forget the family time and the creation of memories and stories to talk about years from now.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Education must remain a Minnesota topic
Whatever your political point of view, public education must remain a Minnesota topic. In recent years the only time politicians wanted to talk about education was how to cut it and why is it so bad. Legislators have done a nice job a convincing some that it should not be an important topic in the state so let's cut prek-12 funding and all the higher level education support as well.
How long will it take to undo the damage that has already been done. How long will it take to put Minnesota back on track to care about quality of life issues and the importance of the future. The last 10 years of reduction cannot be reversed in one or two years. That does not even account for progress or improvements.
In this coming political season public education - at all levels - must be a continuing question. Industry, company headquarters, future employment and continuing economic growth are all tied to the perceptions of the quality of life in Minnesota. No CEO is going to maintain or move into the area if it is not possible to secure a good education for their own children or find an educated work force.
Yes, if you have enough money you can buy what you perceive as quality. Yes, there are those that have the means and the access not to worry about the middle class. But do you really want to live under those conditions?
Between bashing each other and attempting to convince us they are not really politicians, we must demand that our future government leaders understand and support the importance of public education. They will do what it takes to get elected.
How long will it take to undo the damage that has already been done. How long will it take to put Minnesota back on track to care about quality of life issues and the importance of the future. The last 10 years of reduction cannot be reversed in one or two years. That does not even account for progress or improvements.
In this coming political season public education - at all levels - must be a continuing question. Industry, company headquarters, future employment and continuing economic growth are all tied to the perceptions of the quality of life in Minnesota. No CEO is going to maintain or move into the area if it is not possible to secure a good education for their own children or find an educated work force.
Yes, if you have enough money you can buy what you perceive as quality. Yes, there are those that have the means and the access not to worry about the middle class. But do you really want to live under those conditions?
Between bashing each other and attempting to convince us they are not really politicians, we must demand that our future government leaders understand and support the importance of public education. They will do what it takes to get elected.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Newsweek released its ranking of high schools in the United States based on the number of AP, IB and Cambridge (AICE) tests taken versus the number of graduates.
One always has to be careful in ranks and ratings. We encourage our students to enroll in AP and IB classes and support their efforts once there. If enrolled in the courses, we encourage that they take the tests and we support them to do well on the tests. Some of the tests may result in college admissions and/or credit.
We are proud of our students and are please to be noticed nationally. However, we continue to challenge ourselves to provide a quality educational program for all students. We are pleased that all our students are prepared whether they take the AP or IB tests or not.
The congratulations go to the staff, families and students for striving to be their best and pushing themselves. This is a strong educational community.
http://www.newsweek.com/feature/americas-best-high-schools.html" target="_blank">
One always has to be careful in ranks and ratings. We encourage our students to enroll in AP and IB classes and support their efforts once there. If enrolled in the courses, we encourage that they take the tests and we support them to do well on the tests. Some of the tests may result in college admissions and/or credit.
We are proud of our students and are please to be noticed nationally. However, we continue to challenge ourselves to provide a quality educational program for all students. We are pleased that all our students are prepared whether they take the AP or IB tests or not.
The congratulations go to the staff, families and students for striving to be their best and pushing themselves. This is a strong educational community.
http://www.newsweek.com/feature/americas-best-high-schools.html" target="_blank">
Monday, June 14, 2010
Southwest ranked top school by Newsweek magazine. We like polls and the recognition. We know we continue to strive to provide quality educational opportunities for all children. we have a great staff, great kids and a very supportive community of families and friends. Without your support we could not be a top school.
Our goal will be to continue to improve. We want and expect all of our students to be the best in the nation and the world!
>http://www.newsweek.com/feature/2010/americas-best-high-schools/profile.html?key=hB09VIt6Mi9-AvE-t4llF9Ulp2g&state=MN&year=2010&id=698&detailsKey=B-sc13qz9b6S7gxwUNIEj6E5Dkw
Our goal will be to continue to improve. We want and expect all of our students to be the best in the nation and the world!
>http://www.newsweek.com/feature/2010/americas-best-high-schools/profile.html?key=hB09VIt6Mi9-AvE-t4llF9Ulp2g&state=MN&year=2010&id=698&detailsKey=B-sc13qz9b6S7gxwUNIEj6E5Dkw
Summer Reading Lists
Thinking about what book to check out next? Go to the Southwest web site and look at the Summer Reading Lists. We have them separated by grade level and all together. As you can see the list gets longer when you reach the 12th grade.
In some cases, the expectation is that somewhere in your educational k-12 experience you should have knowledge of those books and in some cases authors. There are pieces of literature that have definitely influenced our daily lives - politically, socially, and culturally.
The list is interesting and does provide it own self-check on well read we thought we were. But if you have a moment and need a book to read, you might take that list to your local library and check out one or two. If you have a high school student you might ask if you both want to read the same book or maybe same author but different book. There are advantages and disadvantages as you can quickly determine.
Don't let the ninth grade selection throw you. It is worth the read. It is about a boy growing up or at least adult reflections of an age gone by. But there is plenty there for the females in the family. The author has several others with interesting titles if you enjoy the suggested one.
Some of these rainy days make the library a good spot. Much to learn and experience. You might think about putting it on your weekly schedule and stop by once during the week, to check out books and return some. There is a whole world of interests, adventures and dreams to explore.
In some cases, the expectation is that somewhere in your educational k-12 experience you should have knowledge of those books and in some cases authors. There are pieces of literature that have definitely influenced our daily lives - politically, socially, and culturally.
The list is interesting and does provide it own self-check on well read we thought we were. But if you have a moment and need a book to read, you might take that list to your local library and check out one or two. If you have a high school student you might ask if you both want to read the same book or maybe same author but different book. There are advantages and disadvantages as you can quickly determine.
Don't let the ninth grade selection throw you. It is worth the read. It is about a boy growing up or at least adult reflections of an age gone by. But there is plenty there for the females in the family. The author has several others with interesting titles if you enjoy the suggested one.
Some of these rainy days make the library a good spot. Much to learn and experience. You might think about putting it on your weekly schedule and stop by once during the week, to check out books and return some. There is a whole world of interests, adventures and dreams to explore.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Sunday Star Tribune and teacher stories
This morning's Star Tribune opened a section with stories about memorable teachers in the lives of some of the journalists. Not a bad attempt to make up for all the recent bashing of education and teachers that our politicians and news journalists had been doing lately.
It would be interesting to see what the politicians and journalists might have been if their teachers were as bad as they claim they are.
Different story for a different time. What is your teacher story? Email me if you wish and I can post you tales. I will omit your name if you request. Please use the same method the journalist did and not directly name someone or use an initial. My email is bsmith@mpls.k
12.mn.us
The stories can memorable or funny or about the times you were a youngster or more current. I think all of us have that favorite teacher from years ago.
It would be interesting to see what the politicians and journalists might have been if their teachers were as bad as they claim they are.
Different story for a different time. What is your teacher story? Email me if you wish and I can post you tales. I will omit your name if you request. Please use the same method the journalist did and not directly name someone or use an initial. My email is bsmith@mpls.k
12.mn.us
The stories can memorable or funny or about the times you were a youngster or more current. I think all of us have that favorite teacher from years ago.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
New design for the summer
Let me know what you think of the new background. Going for a new, fresh look for the summer.
What information do you want on the blog? It currently is a mixture of school news, random thoughts, school day happenings and education related stuff. What would you like to see more of? What information is missing?
The goal is to share the news feelings and happenings of being part of Southwest.
Hope to continue throughout the summer.
What information do you want on the blog? It currently is a mixture of school news, random thoughts, school day happenings and education related stuff. What would you like to see more of? What information is missing?
The goal is to share the news feelings and happenings of being part of Southwest.
Hope to continue throughout the summer.
Friday, June 11, 2010
School thoughts are not neutral
It is impossible to talk about school without emotion. We are talking about kids of all ages. We are talking about our own children. We are talking about our future. We are talking about the future of our community. One cannot do that without feelings and emotion. It cannot be an objective conversation.
And it probably shouldn't be. A mother, a father, an adult care giver, a close friend,or a relative has difficulty in removing the personal side from the discussion. It is not like like you are talking about a car or tv set or a chair in your front room. That is your flesh and blood or at least someone you dedicated several years to raising and loving. The conversation is not going to be objective and emotionless.
In most cases the reason there is a discussion is some point of contention or disagreement. A neighbor frequently does not stop by to say wonderful dings about your child just because they hadn't seen you for several days. Most parents don't just drop by school to mention how great an experience it has been and wanted to tell all the teachers before going to work.
Now add disagreement with emotion and you are messing with my family. Those are the ingredients for a casual, calm, rationale, objective talk. Or maybe not. We can spend hours discussing the faults of a strangers ' child but get near my perfect angel and we are going to have fighten' words. I am not saying that is wrong but it sure makes for some difficult moments.
We want the world to be perfect for our children. That is normal and natural. We frequently forget what we did or thought as children. But then maybe you were perfect or never left the house or never caused your parents a moments' bit of concern. But believe me when I say that many of us did and somewhere in the past few years we forgot that.
I do not have a really good solution other than to say that we understand you have great difficulty in having a discussion about your child without being the mother or the father or the one who loves the most. We attempt to listen and wait. We understand the issue and try to work around it. We want to share your concern and care. But sometimes we have something to say that you need to hear. Not because we hate your child or want to cause you pain. We want the very best for your children.
Sometimes we both need to take a deep breath and give it a try.
And it probably shouldn't be. A mother, a father, an adult care giver, a close friend,or a relative has difficulty in removing the personal side from the discussion. It is not like like you are talking about a car or tv set or a chair in your front room. That is your flesh and blood or at least someone you dedicated several years to raising and loving. The conversation is not going to be objective and emotionless.
In most cases the reason there is a discussion is some point of contention or disagreement. A neighbor frequently does not stop by to say wonderful dings about your child just because they hadn't seen you for several days. Most parents don't just drop by school to mention how great an experience it has been and wanted to tell all the teachers before going to work.
Now add disagreement with emotion and you are messing with my family. Those are the ingredients for a casual, calm, rationale, objective talk. Or maybe not. We can spend hours discussing the faults of a strangers ' child but get near my perfect angel and we are going to have fighten' words. I am not saying that is wrong but it sure makes for some difficult moments.
We want the world to be perfect for our children. That is normal and natural. We frequently forget what we did or thought as children. But then maybe you were perfect or never left the house or never caused your parents a moments' bit of concern. But believe me when I say that many of us did and somewhere in the past few years we forgot that.
I do not have a really good solution other than to say that we understand you have great difficulty in having a discussion about your child without being the mother or the father or the one who loves the most. We attempt to listen and wait. We understand the issue and try to work around it. We want to share your concern and care. But sometimes we have something to say that you need to hear. Not because we hate your child or want to cause you pain. We want the very best for your children.
Sometimes we both need to take a deep breath and give it a try.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Quiet Start
The first day after the kids leave is a uneasy quiet. One Ms. Mortensen's official summer acts is to turn off the bells. That silence adds to the still and somber halls. The place is normally voices and locking shutting and bells ringing and all the sounds of activity and energy.
But it is quiet now. That lasts for about a day then the mess starts. Cleaning instantaneously kicks in for the summer. Papers come out of lockers, desks are emptied from classrooms, and the dust and dirt of a full school year ends up in the hallways - one hall at a time.
It takes a couple weeks for the summer to really start. People still have school on their minds. Those last minute details and thoughts hang around for a few days. The closer we get to July the less school is noticed.
The Community Education Summer Program starts and all the little feet will be pounding the hallways. Then the quiet will be broken by different sounds.
But it is quiet now. That lasts for about a day then the mess starts. Cleaning instantaneously kicks in for the summer. Papers come out of lockers, desks are emptied from classrooms, and the dust and dirt of a full school year ends up in the hallways - one hall at a time.
It takes a couple weeks for the summer to really start. People still have school on their minds. Those last minute details and thoughts hang around for a few days. The closer we get to July the less school is noticed.
The Community Education Summer Program starts and all the little feet will be pounding the hallways. Then the quiet will be broken by different sounds.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
The Last and the First
We are now down to the remaining hours until the end of the 2009-10 school year. At the same time we are 83 days and an hour away from the start of the 2010-11 school year.
There is some security in knowing that it continues in a routine kind of way. The cycle continues. When I was a senior in high school - yes we actually had buildings and bells -- for some reason I wanted to be in school when that final bell rang on my final day in high school.
No one in my family had ever been to college - so that was an unknown. My mother had graduated from high school but not my family and every few family members in my extended family. So high school graduation was a big thing.
Well I was in a social studies class and like most kids I knew the rotation of the second hand on the school clock and could anticipate when in made its final round to hit the moment when the bell would sound.
And it did and the bell rang. It rang its usual length and loudness. I sat there and listened and waited.
I had no idea what I was expecting to happen. On reflection I have lots of ideas of why I was doing that and what I might have been thinking but at that moment I can remember feeling -- "so that's it?"
The bell sound was gone. Many of my friends were out of the building with their shouts and screams and it was quiet. For some reason - you have to remember I was a teenager and teenagers frequently do not have to have reasons - I really thought I would feel and be something different. The world would be clearer, I would be smarter or wiser or older or something. But the seconds and the minutes passed as they did every other day.
I went out of the building and went to work.
The end of one thing is only the beginning of another. What we make of all of it, is what matters.
There is some security in knowing that it continues in a routine kind of way. The cycle continues. When I was a senior in high school - yes we actually had buildings and bells -- for some reason I wanted to be in school when that final bell rang on my final day in high school.
No one in my family had ever been to college - so that was an unknown. My mother had graduated from high school but not my family and every few family members in my extended family. So high school graduation was a big thing.
Well I was in a social studies class and like most kids I knew the rotation of the second hand on the school clock and could anticipate when in made its final round to hit the moment when the bell would sound.
And it did and the bell rang. It rang its usual length and loudness. I sat there and listened and waited.
I had no idea what I was expecting to happen. On reflection I have lots of ideas of why I was doing that and what I might have been thinking but at that moment I can remember feeling -- "so that's it?"
The bell sound was gone. Many of my friends were out of the building with their shouts and screams and it was quiet. For some reason - you have to remember I was a teenager and teenagers frequently do not have to have reasons - I really thought I would feel and be something different. The world would be clearer, I would be smarter or wiser or older or something. But the seconds and the minutes passed as they did every other day.
I went out of the building and went to work.
The end of one thing is only the beginning of another. What we make of all of it, is what matters.
Friday, June 4, 2010
5-piece Jazz group to end the day
With Liuzzi on the drums and Porter on the bass, 5th period was entertained by a five, sometimes, six-piece group. 6th period started with some horns to add to the sound but that was a little much so fifteen minutes in the tune went quiet.
Morning was last fire drill of the year. Have to get all the requirements checked off. Math class was trying to figure the height of the flag pole using shadows and mirror images. A lot of formulas were constructed and calculators whirled but still not sure how tall it really is.
So ended the last regular Friday of the 2009-10 school year. It is always amazing how quickly it all happens. In the blink of an eye we just welcomed all these kids and now we watch as they clean out lockers.
The morning was very humid but it never made it to the extremes that were part of this past Monday. It might be that we are used to it by now or down the stretch one can bear anything. A slight breeze, a little music and the last Friday bell rang. Finals here we come.
Morning was last fire drill of the year. Have to get all the requirements checked off. Math class was trying to figure the height of the flag pole using shadows and mirror images. A lot of formulas were constructed and calculators whirled but still not sure how tall it really is.
So ended the last regular Friday of the 2009-10 school year. It is always amazing how quickly it all happens. In the blink of an eye we just welcomed all these kids and now we watch as they clean out lockers.
The morning was very humid but it never made it to the extremes that were part of this past Monday. It might be that we are used to it by now or down the stretch one can bear anything. A slight breeze, a little music and the last Friday bell rang. Finals here we come.
Last regular day
Well the thunderstorm moved through. The result is a little bit cooler building but more humid. The weather is definitely something we cannot change so why complain about it.
Last regular school day. Finals start Monday and go through Tuesday. Another year full of excitement, adventure, sorrow and joy rolls by.
What are your thoughts? I have all summer to read them, contemplate the mysteries and attempt to merge them into successful plans for another year at Southwest.
Send me your feedback. I appreciate knowing what you think and feel about our operation. We are working with the most precious resource within any community -- its children -- its future.
Last regular school day. Finals start Monday and go through Tuesday. Another year full of excitement, adventure, sorrow and joy rolls by.
What are your thoughts? I have all summer to read them, contemplate the mysteries and attempt to merge them into successful plans for another year at Southwest.
Send me your feedback. I appreciate knowing what you think and feel about our operation. We are working with the most precious resource within any community -- its children -- its future.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
No Rains Yet
Thankfully the predicted thunderstorms held off for the moment. WE finished the day with our last "Code Red." We are required to do so many a year and it is good practice but it is one we never want to use.
Quiet afternoon. Gowns handed out and class or 2010 is out at some party I would suspect. Good for them.
Dance Concert here in the auditorium starting at 7 pm. Great show planned and lots of dancers will be performing. Nothing on Friday - so take the weekend off and attend the Dance Concert.
Edina Art Show this weekend starting Friday and going through Sunday. Stay away from 50th and France this weekend.
Still one more day and it is interesting with about 1,200 in the building rather than the 1,700.
The class of 2010 at about 400 is the largest graduating class in a very long time if not the largest. We are looking for a big celebration on Sunday at 8 pm.
Quiet afternoon. Gowns handed out and class or 2010 is out at some party I would suspect. Good for them.
Dance Concert here in the auditorium starting at 7 pm. Great show planned and lots of dancers will be performing. Nothing on Friday - so take the weekend off and attend the Dance Concert.
Edina Art Show this weekend starting Friday and going through Sunday. Stay away from 50th and France this weekend.
Still one more day and it is interesting with about 1,200 in the building rather than the 1,700.
The class of 2010 at about 400 is the largest graduating class in a very long time if not the largest. We are looking for a big celebration on Sunday at 8 pm.
Another Thursday
So I made it to 8:40 before I felt the need to give my lecture about being in school and getting serious about the last four days and we love you, even in red, but we are still in school.
I understand the red - I think -- but some of the fashion were really weird. There were numerous moments I thought I was kidnapped and dumped in Amsterdam. I still am convinced that the children you say good-by to in the morning are not the children who show up at school.
Not a bad morning. As I suspected, the seniors were fine - maybe a bit tired - but the juniors were feeling their oats and were on the frisky side. But again, that hasn't changed in 200 years.
Review for finals is on and we'll see if we can have a really calm day on Friday. The weekend should wear them out for Monday and Tuesday.
I understand the red - I think -- but some of the fashion were really weird. There were numerous moments I thought I was kidnapped and dumped in Amsterdam. I still am convinced that the children you say good-by to in the morning are not the children who show up at school.
Not a bad morning. As I suspected, the seniors were fine - maybe a bit tired - but the juniors were feeling their oats and were on the frisky side. But again, that hasn't changed in 200 years.
Review for finals is on and we'll see if we can have a really calm day on Friday. The weekend should wear them out for Monday and Tuesday.
Bikes and Stuff June 4th
Hello everyone,
A Little Art Show at
Calhoun Cycle Bike Shop, 34th and Hennepin Ave. So.
Friday, June 4th, 7 - 9 PM
Ice Cream and Popsickles
Come see our ART BIKES, New Animal ART CAR (Owned by Nancy Sullivan in DHH) and awesome sports DRAWINGS
The art bikes will be on display long term there and the drawings will be there through Monday.
Mina Leierwood
Art Teacher
A Little Art Show at
Calhoun Cycle Bike Shop, 34th and Hennepin Ave. So.
Friday, June 4th, 7 - 9 PM
Ice Cream and Popsickles
Come see our ART BIKES, New Animal ART CAR (Owned by Nancy Sullivan in DHH) and awesome sports DRAWINGS
The art bikes will be on display long term there and the drawings will be there through Monday.
Mina Leierwood
Art Teacher
A Bright Sunny Day
The sun is shinning, the birds are singing, it is a bright sunny day.
So they will show up with all their red and the sophomores will want to go out to lunch and the freshpeople will wonder why are the halls less crowded. It is a bright, sunny new day.
We will be about 450 people less today. It will seem very quiet and extremely less crowded. These are the days when the argument for a smaller total student population really rings true.
It will be interesting to see who is going to the be the self appointed new loud person at lunch, or school clown or the one who wanders. The big kids are gone so now is the time to attempt to establish a new hierarchy of persons in the school social system.
So it all begins anew.
So they will show up with all their red and the sophomores will want to go out to lunch and the freshpeople will wonder why are the halls less crowded. It is a bright, sunny new day.
We will be about 450 people less today. It will seem very quiet and extremely less crowded. These are the days when the argument for a smaller total student population really rings true.
It will be interesting to see who is going to the be the self appointed new loud person at lunch, or school clown or the one who wanders. The big kids are gone so now is the time to attempt to establish a new hierarchy of persons in the school social system.
So it all begins anew.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
At the end of the day
Ok, so I made it home. Watched the sky with colorful clouds left from sunset. Stretched out my legs and thought, this wasn't so bad.
Funny how a few hours can make a world of difference. I was so proud of them as I listened to the fine arts awards program. They are talented, caring kids. We spent four years together. For some of them, from the corner of the room watched them struggle, block a couple tears and go back to it. I listened to the applause they earned from a supportive audience. I cheered as they moved on to another city championship. I yelled at them for being late to class, being silly, making a mess, not cleaning up...just being who they are at 13, 14,...18.
At the end of the day I think....they are really alright... They have a good start.....it really has been great fun!
A big sigh...tomorrow it is the red shirt juniors trying to make their mark in the sun........ another cycle of start and finish....of adventure and opportunity. After all, I have a full year to figure out how to get ahead of them this time next year........
Funny how a few hours can make a world of difference. I was so proud of them as I listened to the fine arts awards program. They are talented, caring kids. We spent four years together. For some of them, from the corner of the room watched them struggle, block a couple tears and go back to it. I listened to the applause they earned from a supportive audience. I cheered as they moved on to another city championship. I yelled at them for being late to class, being silly, making a mess, not cleaning up...just being who they are at 13, 14,...18.
At the end of the day I think....they are really alright... They have a good start.....it really has been great fun!
A big sigh...tomorrow it is the red shirt juniors trying to make their mark in the sun........ another cycle of start and finish....of adventure and opportunity. After all, I have a full year to figure out how to get ahead of them this time next year........
01 is now part of the history and the legend
Cheering 01 and dusting glitter all over, the graduating class left the building as that last bell sounded the conclusion of the official 12 years of public education. For some it is the beginning and for some it is the end of schooling.
We rejoice with them. Because we are older we fear for them. We hear their screams of celebration and we hear their fear of the unknown. We hate to seem them go and at the same time counted those last seconds to get them out of here.
The Class of 2010 and its schooling is over and it is a few days away from being alumni.
The ten year reunion will happen too quickly.
With care and love and a yearning of hope -- we bid them good luck
We rejoice with them. Because we are older we fear for them. We hear their screams of celebration and we hear their fear of the unknown. We hate to seem them go and at the same time counted those last seconds to get them out of here.
The Class of 2010 and its schooling is over and it is a few days away from being alumni.
The ten year reunion will happen too quickly.
With care and love and a yearning of hope -- we bid them good luck
This morning started with a jazz concert welcoming students to another grand and glorious day at Southwest.
This group normally meets in the band room every morning before school but in recent days performed in the commons.
By special request moved to the front hall to greet the morning and the students.
Cloudy Morning and Bright Futures
Rain during those last few school days are an educator's dream. Okay so that is a bit boring, but we get excited about little ones reading and the sudden glow in the eyes when new learning happens.
Senior awards last night. That was on top of the last orchestra, strings and chamber music group playing for the lat time with its five seniors. Most every thing went well. As with any large number program, there are a few mix ups. No matter how hard we try it seems like every year there are some mistakes.
Jean Sherwood, the counselors, Ryan Lamberty, Athletic Director and Barbara Mahal - Counseling clerk spend hours trying to mesh the awards with the names with the scholarships with the various certificates and honors. That is one of those good news bad news things. We are a very active school and our students earn lots of awards and do very well academically. Thus, trying to tie all of that into a night of recognition becomes a tremendous challenge.
It was an exciting night and hopefully a community festival or pride and satisfaction. This has been a good year and these are a great bunch of graduates.
But a bit on the humid side with a little showers. See what happens today.
Senior awards last night. That was on top of the last orchestra, strings and chamber music group playing for the lat time with its five seniors. Most every thing went well. As with any large number program, there are a few mix ups. No matter how hard we try it seems like every year there are some mistakes.
Jean Sherwood, the counselors, Ryan Lamberty, Athletic Director and Barbara Mahal - Counseling clerk spend hours trying to mesh the awards with the names with the scholarships with the various certificates and honors. That is one of those good news bad news things. We are a very active school and our students earn lots of awards and do very well academically. Thus, trying to tie all of that into a night of recognition becomes a tremendous challenge.
It was an exciting night and hopefully a community festival or pride and satisfaction. This has been a good year and these are a great bunch of graduates.
But a bit on the humid side with a little showers. See what happens today.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Let the Showers begin
The very little, too late rain helped a bit. The building was hot and humid all day. Maybe being away for three days made it feel all that much worse, but today was a not-so-good feeling day. Maybe the very little rain passing through will help tomorrow. More is predicted.
Senior finals and basically a solid educational day. Too hot for much extra activity but a busy day for many of our seniors as this is the first of the two days of finals.
Senior Awards tonight and we mark off another end of the year ceremony.
Senior finals and basically a solid educational day. Too hot for much extra activity but a busy day for many of our seniors as this is the first of the two days of finals.
Senior Awards tonight and we mark off another end of the year ceremony.
Senior Night Out
Glad to see that the neighborhood is safe and secure. Numerous seniors volunteered their time to be part of the Memorial Day neighborhood watch program and ensure that nothing was bothered this year.
The evening appears to have been successful and no neighbor complaints. The camp ground is now empty and all is clean. A wonderful group of kids and another wonderful community project.
Camp site Developed in Front Yard
So they come home to roost. This morning was the scene of tents and campers on the front lawn. Made me think back to some of the days of buying concert tickets or waiting on single St. Paul Saints tickets to go on sale or just because. Not that I did any of that stuff but I am sure someone remembers.
So we start the week as the backdrop to a camp ground. Kind of like scouting days (or Camp Fire) or maybe the start of the fishing season. But each to his/her own. Almost all girls as I can tell but it is daylight so who knows hours before.
Sleeping bags, tents and good times. That is want summer is all about and especially the wonderful three-day weekends. Like all good campers they are leaving the site better than they found it.
So we are off to another day.
So we start the week as the backdrop to a camp ground. Kind of like scouting days (or Camp Fire) or maybe the start of the fishing season. But each to his/her own. Almost all girls as I can tell but it is daylight so who knows hours before.
Sleeping bags, tents and good times. That is want summer is all about and especially the wonderful three-day weekends. Like all good campers they are leaving the site better than they found it.
So we are off to another day.
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