(The following announcement was provided by Dr. Jeffrey Adams, Director of Special Services at Woodbury Public Schools)
Woodbury’s own Gloria Goode was informed yesterday by the New Jersey School Social Workers Association that she is being recognized as the School Social Worker of the Year.
Ms. Goode is very active in the Gloucester County chapter of this organization. She was nominated for the award by her colleagues in the county and Dr. Adams. A comprehensive application was submitted last month.
Ms. Goode serves the district and broader community of Woodbury in a manner that always focuses on what will help our students meet with success. Her hard work and dedication have been recognized locally for years.
Ms. Goode will attend a ceremony held by the NJSSWA in April to receive this special award. We congratulate Ms. Goode on this accomplishment and celebrate with her.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
School Budget Vote -- April 15th
Last week, you may have read the Gloucester County Times article on the budget. The board approved the 2008-09 school year budget for submission to the New Jersey Department of Education County Office for review and approval.
The next step, once that review is completed, will be for a public hearing. That hearing is scheduled for the same night of the board's regular March meeting -- Wednesday, March 27 (@ 7:00 p.m).
Finally -- mark your calendar for Tuesday, April 15th. Not only is it tax day, but it is also the date for this year's vote for school board members and the school budget.
As we currently stand, the general fund budget has been crafted so as to provide a 27.3 cent decrease in the school tax rate. We are excited to be able to turn back the tax rate due to the increased state funding for the Woodbury Public Schools in 2008-09 while continuing to provide a sound educational program for all of our students.
The next step, once that review is completed, will be for a public hearing. That hearing is scheduled for the same night of the board's regular March meeting -- Wednesday, March 27 (@ 7:00 p.m).
Finally -- mark your calendar for Tuesday, April 15th. Not only is it tax day, but it is also the date for this year's vote for school board members and the school budget.
As we currently stand, the general fund budget has been crafted so as to provide a 27.3 cent decrease in the school tax rate. We are excited to be able to turn back the tax rate due to the increased state funding for the Woodbury Public Schools in 2008-09 while continuing to provide a sound educational program for all of our students.
Monday, March 03, 2008
NJSBA -- Federal Relations Network
At the Feb. 5 “Day on the Hill” are (left to right) William Barnaskas, president of the Lyndhurst Board of Education; Sharon Seyler, legislative coordinator of advocacy programs for NJSBA; Alice Gale, member of the Maple Shade Board of Education; Dana Richter, senior legislative assistant for Rep. Frank A. LoBiondo; John Bulina, NJSBA’s vice president for finance; Eva M. Nagy, NJSBA’s vice president for legislation/resolutions; and Frank J. Gwalthney, president of the Woodbury Board of Education.
Our Board President, Frank Gwalthney, was one of New Jersey School Board Association's (NJSBA) representatives in Washington, D.C. this past February. Mr. Gwalthney gave a report at our last board meeting on the need to stay involved with the political process and to encourage full federal funding for programs mandated by federal legislation.
(The story below appeared in a weekly newsletter sent out by the NJSBA)
School Board Notes
February 14, 2008 • Vol. XXXI • No. 25
About two dozen New Jersey school board members, NJSBA officers and staff traveled to Washington, D.C. for the annual Federal Relations Network (FRN) conference, a three-day advocacy and training program for board of education members.
Sponsored by the National School Boards Association, the FRN conference attracted 943 school officials from throughout the nation to Washington on Feb. 3 to 5.
NCLB Tops Agenda The main topic? Urging legislators to support House Resolution 648, the No Child Left Behind Improvements Act.
This bill includes provisions that would give states more flexibility dealing with the requirements of NCLB. For instance, it would:
Use several measures of achievement, rather than solely relying on standardized testing;
Implement more effective accountability measures for English language learners and students with disabilities; and
Establish common-sense approaches when applying sanctions.
Speakers at the FRN conference discussed the political climate in the nation, and training seminars addressed issues ranging from federal funding to improving lobbying skills. The final part was the “Day on the Hill,” where New Jersey’s school board members, NJSBA officers and lobbyists split into groups to meet with legislative aides representing the state’s Senators and Congressional representatives.
Federal Education Funding Participants also discussed issues such as increasing the federal investment in public education. The issue is particularly important to New Jersey, considering the federal government’s low level of funding. According to the National Education Association’s 2006-07 Rankings & Estimates report, only 3.3 percent of New Jersey’s education funding comes from the federal government—the lowest ratio in the nation; the national average is nearly 9 percent.
To bolster federal support, NSBA urges Congress to provide a $2.5 billion increase in Title 1 funding, which is NCLB’s main funding source. In addition, NSBA is calling for a $2.5 billion increase for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)—a program to which Congress promised 40-percent funding when it was established three decades ago, but which has only been funded at less than half that amount.
Federal, state and local funding is shaping up to be a major concern nationally, as about half of the states face budget shortfalls. Bleak predictions of local revenues due to declining real estate values lead school board members in many states to expect tighter school budgets.
NSBA also seeks to prevent the administration from cutting Medicaid reimbursement to local school districts for the costs of providing school-based administrative and transportation services to low-income children with disabilities.
The Association also aims to improve teacher quality by adding flexibility to NCLB’s “Highly Qualified Teacher” requirements; supporting the recruitment, training and retention of teachers in hard-to-staff schools and high-need subjects; and strengthening teacher preparation programs through the Higher Education Act.
Students Helping Students Resolve Conflict
(This entry was provided by Mr. Murphy, Director of Pupil Personnel Services)
On Thursday, February 21st, thirty-four students in grades 4-6 were trained as peer mediators. The students were from each of our elementary schools and the junior high school annex; interested students applied to participate. The final selections were made by the teachers and counselors, and the training was held at the West End Memorial Elementary School.
Students learned the fine art of listening and the process involved in helping their peers resolve conflict. The day was filled with hands-on activities, and students were given the chance to practice the process through role playing activities. After a full day, with no time for recess, the students were bused back to their respective schools full of enthusiasm and eager to help their classmates. In the coming weeks students will be sharing their knowledge of peer mediation with teachers, students and administrators and will be looking to serve their schools.
Parents or students who would like more information on the program are encouraged to call the respective school counselor.
On Thursday, February 21st, thirty-four students in grades 4-6 were trained as peer mediators. The students were from each of our elementary schools and the junior high school annex; interested students applied to participate. The final selections were made by the teachers and counselors, and the training was held at the West End Memorial Elementary School.
Students learned the fine art of listening and the process involved in helping their peers resolve conflict. The day was filled with hands-on activities, and students were given the chance to practice the process through role playing activities. After a full day, with no time for recess, the students were bused back to their respective schools full of enthusiasm and eager to help their classmates. In the coming weeks students will be sharing their knowledge of peer mediation with teachers, students and administrators and will be looking to serve their schools.
Parents or students who would like more information on the program are encouraged to call the respective school counselor.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Spotlight on Ms. Edmond
Tara Edmond
Teacher of Grade 6
Woodbury Jr.-Sr. High School
Teacher of Grade 6
Woodbury Jr.-Sr. High School
•Name:
Tara Edmond
• College(s) and degrees(s):
Rowan University – Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts: Specialization in Math/Science. Teacher of Reading Certification.
• Work experience:
1 Year as a Preschool Head Teacher at The Goddard School
• Favorite books
o Fiction: Next by Michael Crichton and anything by John Grisham
o Nonfiction: Teacher Man by Frank McCourt
• Favorite television show:
24
• Last movie I loved:
Ocean’s Thirteen
• Music CD that I have almost worn out from repeated playing:
I don’t really listen to CD’s, but I love listening to country music radio.
• Person (living or not) that I’d like to have lunch with and why:
Albert Einstein -- to be in the company of someone who provided us with so much would be mind-boggling.
• Visiting this place makes me peaceful:
The beach at night
• One item on my “to do” list that I can’t seem to get to:
Start house shopping
• Favorite animal (domestic or wild):
Cat
Favorite sports team:
Philadelphia Eagles
• Destination of my fantasy vacation trip:
Italy
• Details about the teacher I will never forget who inspired me to enter the profession:
My first grade teacher who made me feel like a part of the class when I entered school two weeks late. She could tell that I was shy and knew the right way to handle the problem. She introduced me to friends that I still had years later. Her class was fun and I still remember many activities we did.
Tara Edmond
• College(s) and degrees(s):
Rowan University – Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts: Specialization in Math/Science. Teacher of Reading Certification.
• Work experience:
1 Year as a Preschool Head Teacher at The Goddard School
• Favorite books
o Fiction: Next by Michael Crichton and anything by John Grisham
o Nonfiction: Teacher Man by Frank McCourt
• Favorite television show:
24
• Last movie I loved:
Ocean’s Thirteen
• Music CD that I have almost worn out from repeated playing:
I don’t really listen to CD’s, but I love listening to country music radio.
• Person (living or not) that I’d like to have lunch with and why:
Albert Einstein -- to be in the company of someone who provided us with so much would be mind-boggling.
• Visiting this place makes me peaceful:
The beach at night
• One item on my “to do” list that I can’t seem to get to:
Start house shopping
• Favorite animal (domestic or wild):
Cat
Favorite sports team:
Philadelphia Eagles
• Destination of my fantasy vacation trip:
Italy
• Details about the teacher I will never forget who inspired me to enter the profession:
My first grade teacher who made me feel like a part of the class when I entered school two weeks late. She could tell that I was shy and knew the right way to handle the problem. She introduced me to friends that I still had years later. Her class was fun and I still remember many activities we did.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Open Mic at the HS (continued)
(This entry was provided by Mrs. Dunham, Jr.-Sr. High School Principal)
Many musicians, including myself, are challenged to embrace new forms/styles of music. My resolve is always the same: In the past, musicians struggled with the blues when it was introduced to the world, then Bessie Smith came along; jazz created quite a stir, then Duke Ellington showed the world that the form had real value.
Rap was the hardest to embrace! Its evolution throughout the years has totally diminished its promise of social merit; then Vaughn Coyle, Class of 2008, created lyrics and a melodic “hook” that caused me, and Antoinette Rizzi, high school math teacher, to take pause, listen, and realize that rap – shared in the right context – still has a place in the world of music.
“Imma Be OK” – was written by Vaughn and performed during our celebration of Black History Month during our “Open Mic” events during the lunch hour. Mrs. Rizzi was so moved by the lyrics that she presented the lyrics in a memorable frame to Vaughn on Tuesday, February 26, 2008.
Vaughn, Mrs. Rizzi, and countless others, who were ready to dismiss the art of rapping, are all ‘going to be OK’ thanks to the talent of Vaughn.
IMMA BE OKAY [By Vaughn Coyle]
MLK he had a dream
To this day, he changed the scene
See this man, he had a plan
To change the work, make it fair
Martin Luther King, had a dream
To make it equal, everybody succeeds
King lived and died for his dream
Now we celebrate his life and his dream
Man no matter what’s said imma be okay
Cuz I’ll lead ya to my dream like I’m mlk
Everybody feel me, cuz I’m speakin the truth
It don’t matter if ya black, white, purple, or blue
Cuz see I float like a butterfly and sting like a bee
Cuz I talk it like I walk it like my name was ali
I think about mlk, he made it easy for me
And rosa parks too, she refused to give up her seat
Malcolm x spread the word that would bring us together
And make society and the whole world so much better
What would you say to em, if they was all livin
I would say thank you for the sacrifices you’ve given
(hook)
I sit and think about what could life be like
All the pain, all the torture, from slavery life
And den I sit and think, where would I be
I couldn’t imagine livin life and not be free
I have a dream of bein rich like jay-z
Slash rapper slash business man, maybe
I look up to 50 cent, tupac, biggie, and jay
Cuz my dream is to be in dey position one day
Everybody feelin me if dey follow my lead
If dey can make it, I can make it, I can follow my dream
Only god can tell the direction that I’m soon to be headin
One thing I’ll remember is to keep love present
(hook)
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Winter Blues
I think today is one of the first days in what seems like a long time where all four of my own kids will be in school. Winter illness – colds, flu, stomach issues, etc. – have taken their toll. I hope all is well with you and your family. We are anxiously looking forward to spring.
By the way – spring sports officially start next Friday – first Friday in March. Now, maybe that is the light at the end of the tunnel. It has been a relatively easy winter weather-wise, but it is always nice to move from winter to spring.
FINALLY – the building principals are letting staff and students know that we will be following our snow make-up provision as outlined on the school calendars. That means that last Friday’s closing due to weather will be made up on Wednesday, March 19.
Have a great day!
By the way – spring sports officially start next Friday – first Friday in March. Now, maybe that is the light at the end of the tunnel. It has been a relatively easy winter weather-wise, but it is always nice to move from winter to spring.
FINALLY – the building principals are letting staff and students know that we will be following our snow make-up provision as outlined on the school calendars. That means that last Friday’s closing due to weather will be made up on Wednesday, March 19.
Have a great day!
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
School Board Elections
I want to thank our incumbent board members Lynn Jennings Dennen, Diane Hill and Jerry Lonabaugh for volunteering their time and service to the Woodbury Public Schools once again. Each has filed to run for a new three-year seat on the school board.
Elections take place Tuesday, April 15, 2008. (That should be an easy date to remember!)
Mark your calendars. At that same time, a vote on the school budget will also be conducted. More information on the 2008-09 budget will be provided in the weeks ahead.
Elections take place Tuesday, April 15, 2008. (That should be an easy date to remember!)
Mark your calendars. At that same time, a vote on the school budget will also be conducted. More information on the 2008-09 budget will be provided in the weeks ahead.
Monday, February 25, 2008
It's a Busy Week
Tuesday – 2/26/08
7:00pm
NJSIAA Boys Basketball vs. Burlington City
@ Woodbury High School
Wednesday – 2/27/08
7:00pm
Board of Education Meeting: Teachers of the Year; Report on the 2008 National School Boards Association's Legislative Conference; Introduction of the 2008-09 Budget
Board Conference Room
Thursday – 2/28/08 7:00 p.m.
Friday – 2/29/08 7:00 p.m.
Saturday – 3/1/08 1:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
High School Theater Club Presents:
Into the Woods
High School Auditorium
7:00pm
NJSIAA Boys Basketball vs. Burlington City
@ Woodbury High School
Wednesday – 2/27/08
7:00pm
Board of Education Meeting: Teachers of the Year; Report on the 2008 National School Boards Association's Legislative Conference; Introduction of the 2008-09 Budget
Board Conference Room
Thursday – 2/28/08 7:00 p.m.
Friday – 2/29/08 7:00 p.m.
Saturday – 3/1/08 1:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
High School Theater Club Presents:
Into the Woods
High School Auditorium
Friday, February 22, 2008
School Closed
These mornings are never fun for a school superintendent. It seems like, if we were able to get in today, we would be okay -- with a changeover to rain. Unfortunately, it is the commute in to school that is so uncertain -- the snow is heaviest now, and the weather forecasters predict that it will continue that way for a while, with a change over to sleet/ice.
With the number of our students who walk to school and cross multiple intersections, it seems to be more prudent to simply close. Therefore -- as you see from the heading of this blog entry and back on the main page of the website -- the Woodbury Public Schools are closed today. What made the decision a bit easier was that just about every other school in the county is closing.
Interesting, I just received my telephone call that the scheduled meeting for all county superintendents at the New Jersey Department of Education County Office is on for this morning. Now, my commute in to this meeting will be the real barometer regarding the quality of this decision to close.
Enjoy the long weekend.
With the number of our students who walk to school and cross multiple intersections, it seems to be more prudent to simply close. Therefore -- as you see from the heading of this blog entry and back on the main page of the website -- the Woodbury Public Schools are closed today. What made the decision a bit easier was that just about every other school in the county is closing.
Interesting, I just received my telephone call that the scheduled meeting for all county superintendents at the New Jersey Department of Education County Office is on for this morning. Now, my commute in to this meeting will be the real barometer regarding the quality of this decision to close.
Enjoy the long weekend.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Black History Month @ Jr.-Sr. High School
( Javon Jackson, Tremont Skipper and Ahmir Whaley pose for the camera before their Open Mic performance.)
(Tangeleke Rothmiller shares original poetry with an audience of 6th graders during their lunch period.)
(Larry Ebron presents a Langston Hughes poem.)
(Mrs. Dunham ‘tickles the ivories’ for singers Darnell Donahue and Juwan Daniels.)
Woodbury Jr Sr High School continued their celebration of Black History Month with the first Open Mic event ever, held during three different lunch periods in the Old Cafeteria on February 13th and then, again, yesterday in a final lunch period.
Nine students presented poems and songs with Mrs. Dunham supplying accompaniment on the piano.
Congratulations to these students for their fine performances:
Richard Smith
Tangeleke Rothmiller
Larry Ebron
Darnell Donahue
Juwan Daniels
Bria Skipper
Vaughn Coyle
Tremont Skipper
Ahmir Whaley
(This blog entry was submitted by Ms. Alysa Cummings, Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction.)
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Special Announcement: Teachers of the Year
We are excited to announce that the following teachers have been selected as the New Jersey Governor’s Teacher of the Year Award recipients for the Woodbury Public Schools for the 2007-08 school year:
Evergreen Avenue: Shin-Yin Estes
Walnut Street: Doug Park
West End Memorial: Shawn Jess
Junior High School: Yael Emenecker
Senior High School: Colleen Fitzgerald
Each demonstrates hard work, dedication, and a professional spirit worthy of our recognition. The selection committee was pleased to be able to choose each as a representative of all the good teaching that takes place across the district.
Woodbury is fortunate to have a truly dedicated faculty, and we are proud to have these teachers represent the excellence that we strive for in each classroom.
Evergreen Avenue: Shin-Yin Estes
Walnut Street: Doug Park
West End Memorial: Shawn Jess
Junior High School: Yael Emenecker
Senior High School: Colleen Fitzgerald
Each demonstrates hard work, dedication, and a professional spirit worthy of our recognition. The selection committee was pleased to be able to choose each as a representative of all the good teaching that takes place across the district.
Woodbury is fortunate to have a truly dedicated faculty, and we are proud to have these teachers represent the excellence that we strive for in each classroom.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Spotlight on Mr. Kilpatrick
Albert Kilpatrick
Social Studies/AVID Teacher
Woodbury Jr.-Sr. High School
Social Studies/AVID Teacher
Woodbury Jr.-Sr. High School
•Name:
Albert Kilpatrick
• College(s) and degrees(s):
University of Maryland at College Park: BA History
• Work experience:
Nearly 15 years of professional experience in healthcare communications/medical publishing and pharmaceutical consulting. Recently employed as a substitute teacher and instructional assistant at Woodbury.
• Favorite books
o fiction: The Stand by Stephen King
o nonfiction: In Harm’s Way: The Sinking of the USS Indianapolis and the Extraordinary Story of Its Survivors by Doug Stanton
• Favorite television show:
M*A*S*H
• Last movie I loved:
Saving Private Ryan
• Music CD that I have almost worn out from repeated playing:
Liquid Tension Experiment I & II
• Person (living or not) that I’d like to have lunch with and why:
My mother, Nancy. She passed away 14 years ago. We’d have quite a bit of catching up to do.
Albert Kilpatrick
• College(s) and degrees(s):
University of Maryland at College Park: BA History
• Work experience:
Nearly 15 years of professional experience in healthcare communications/medical publishing and pharmaceutical consulting. Recently employed as a substitute teacher and instructional assistant at Woodbury.
• Favorite books
o fiction: The Stand by Stephen King
o nonfiction: In Harm’s Way: The Sinking of the USS Indianapolis and the Extraordinary Story of Its Survivors by Doug Stanton
• Favorite television show:
M*A*S*H
• Last movie I loved:
Saving Private Ryan
• Music CD that I have almost worn out from repeated playing:
Liquid Tension Experiment I & II
• Person (living or not) that I’d like to have lunch with and why:
My mother, Nancy. She passed away 14 years ago. We’d have quite a bit of catching up to do.
• Visiting this place makes me peaceful:
Trout Lake in Hermon, New York
• One item on my “to do” list that I can’t seem to get to:
Clean-reorganize the garage
• Favorite animal (domestic or wild):
Giraffe
• Favorite sports team:
Maryland Terrapins Men’s Basketball
• Destination of my fantasy vacation trip:
Egypt – the pyramids
• Details about the teacher I will never forget who inspired me to enter the profession:
My high school civics teacher, Mr. Robert Lindinger. He taught me to look deeper and question why.
• Other:
Married 14 years to my lovely wife Jennifer. We have two children: Sarah (12) and AJ (9). We also have a doberman pinscher named Cole.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Boys Basketball -- NJSIAA Group I Playoffs
Mark your calendar for the first round of the playoffs. The Woodbury Boys Basketball team will host Burlington City Tuesday, February 26.
The game will start at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets will be sold at the door. These are always exciting games -- well worth the price of admission.
Good luck to Coach Bowe and all the players!
The game will start at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets will be sold at the door. These are always exciting games -- well worth the price of admission.
Good luck to Coach Bowe and all the players!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Woodbury Blood Drive -- Next Friday
Woodbury High School & Community Drive
Friday, February 22nd
8 – 2 High School / 3 – 7:30 Community
Library
MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY BY
visiting www.pleasegiveblood.org/donate
sponsor code 12522
Make Appointment
Friday, February 22nd
8 – 2 High School / 3 – 7:30 Community
Library
MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY BY
visiting www.pleasegiveblood.org/donate
sponsor code 12522
Monday, February 11, 2008
Physics Trip
Photo caption:
Nobel Prize winner Dr. William Phillips presents to students during the 13th Annual Kaczmarczik Lecture at Drexel University.
On Thursday, February 7th a group of 14 Woodbury students from AP Physics and Honors Chemistry classes took a trip to Drexel University for the 13th Annual Kaczmarczik Lecture. There they were joined with nearly 700 other high school physics students from Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania for what turned out to be a very informative, captivating day, full of many connections to the classroom.
Imagine sitting in a chemistry class wondering how scientists can determine the mass of something as miniscule as a molecule and then actually having the rare opportunity to see a research scientist do it utilizing a mass spectrometer. Or, watching a biophysicist take Newton’s second Law and manipulate it utilizing state of the industry computer animation, to predict the behavior of protein molecules.
These were just a few of the special learning experiences that Woodbury students were exposed to during their day at Drexel’s research laboratories where they spoke directly to some of the nation’s leading researchers.
After touring the research laboratories, students gathered in the main auditorium to listen to Dr.William D. Phillips a 1997 Nobel Prize recipient describe his quest to bring matter to “absolute zero” (-273 Celsius). Dr. Phillips and his team managed to cool matter to within 1 billionth of a degree from absolute zero -- earning them the Nobel Prize in 1997. Dr. Phillips geared his presentation for a high school audience including many captivating demonstrations and animations.
In all, the Kaczmarczik open house and lecture proved to bridge the distance between the classroom and modern real world physics. It was the kind of experience that gets students excited about science.
(Posting submitted by Ms. Cummings, Supervisor of Curriculum & Instruction.)
Friday, February 08, 2008
Spotlight on Mrs. Foran
Stephanie Foran
Teacher of Enrichment
Elementary Schools
Teacher of Enrichment
Elementary Schools
•Name:
Stephanie Foran
• College(s) and degrees(s):
o B.S. in Elementary Education, with a concentration in English, and M.A. in Education from The University of Connecticut (UConn), where I took classes with professors from the renowned National Research Center on the Gifted & Talented
o Took a graduate level counselor education course at The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
o Am currently pursuing my English as a Second Language (ESL) Endorsement Certificate at Rowan University.
• Work experience:
o Have taught English as a Second Language (ESL) to adults for the past six years (at community college & through community education programs)
o Served as a ESL Campus Manager at Burlington County College
o Taught English to Italian high school students at Rider University's Study Tours Program
o Taught GED and Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes
o Taught after-school Spanish Enrichment classes for children
o Taught Grade 4 summer school
o Created my own ESL private tutoring business, teaching a total of over 100 children and adults over a two-year period
o Served as a Project Facilitator at an adult education agency
• Favorite books
o Fiction: The Secret Life of Bees, Tuck Everlasting, Bridge to Terabithia
Stephanie Foran
• College(s) and degrees(s):
o B.S. in Elementary Education, with a concentration in English, and M.A. in Education from The University of Connecticut (UConn), where I took classes with professors from the renowned National Research Center on the Gifted & Talented
o Took a graduate level counselor education course at The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
o Am currently pursuing my English as a Second Language (ESL) Endorsement Certificate at Rowan University.
• Work experience:
o Have taught English as a Second Language (ESL) to adults for the past six years (at community college & through community education programs)
o Served as a ESL Campus Manager at Burlington County College
o Taught English to Italian high school students at Rider University's Study Tours Program
o Taught GED and Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes
o Taught after-school Spanish Enrichment classes for children
o Taught Grade 4 summer school
o Created my own ESL private tutoring business, teaching a total of over 100 children and adults over a two-year period
o Served as a Project Facilitator at an adult education agency
• Favorite books
o Fiction: The Secret Life of Bees, Tuck Everlasting, Bridge to Terabithia
o Nonfiction: Reason for Hope, Everyday Sacred & Stretching Lessons, The Faith Club and books by Sark.
I also love the poetry of William Wordsworth and am a collector and lover of quotes.
• Favorite television show:
Reruns of Roseanne
• Last movie I loved:
Matilda - I had seen it before, but I enjoyed it again recently.
• Music CD that I have almost worn out from repeated playing:
Rumours - Fleetwood Mac
• Person (living or not) that I’d like to have lunch with and why:
My best friend, Kate (whom I met in kindergarten!), an environmental educator living in Wyoming at the moment, because I don't get to see her often and because she is the kindest, most thoughtful, and most adventurous person I know.
I also love the poetry of William Wordsworth and am a collector and lover of quotes.
• Favorite television show:
Reruns of Roseanne
• Last movie I loved:
Matilda - I had seen it before, but I enjoyed it again recently.
• Music CD that I have almost worn out from repeated playing:
Rumours - Fleetwood Mac
• Person (living or not) that I’d like to have lunch with and why:
My best friend, Kate (whom I met in kindergarten!), an environmental educator living in Wyoming at the moment, because I don't get to see her often and because she is the kindest, most thoughtful, and most adventurous person I know.
• Visiting this place makes me peaceful:
Amish Country (the non-touristy parts)
• One item on my “to do” list that I can’t seem to get to:
Keeping my house as neat as I’d like it to be (there are too many more exciting things to do!)
• Favorite animal (domestic or wild):
Flamingo
• Favorite sports team:
The underdog
• Destination of my fantasy vacation trip:
Ireland & Italy or Hawaii, or any place that is new and exciting with the company of my husband, the best travel buddy in the world!
• Details about the teacher I will never forget who inspired me to enter the profession:
I feel truly lucky to say that the majority of my teachers were all wonderful and made a lasting impression on me, and I loved school from the very start, so I knew I wanted to be a teacher at a young age. However, two particular teachers stand out in my mind as being especially inspirational to me--my 8th grade English teacher, Mrs. Cynthia Field, and my sophomore year high school English teacher, Miss Phyllis Muldoon. Both of these teachers challenged and encouraged me, fed my appetite for reading and writing, caused me to examine my own beliefs and reflect on important issues in life, and were passionate about what they taught. I hope to do the same for my own students.
MY APPROACH TO TEACHING: I view each child as a unique individual and think it is very important to get to know students as people in addition to pupils in order to teach them well.
CLOSING THOUGHT: “One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feelings. The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is the vital element for the growing plant and for the soul of the child.” –Carl Gustav Jung
Amish Country (the non-touristy parts)
• One item on my “to do” list that I can’t seem to get to:
Keeping my house as neat as I’d like it to be (there are too many more exciting things to do!)
• Favorite animal (domestic or wild):
Flamingo
• Favorite sports team:
The underdog
• Destination of my fantasy vacation trip:
Ireland & Italy or Hawaii, or any place that is new and exciting with the company of my husband, the best travel buddy in the world!
• Details about the teacher I will never forget who inspired me to enter the profession:
I feel truly lucky to say that the majority of my teachers were all wonderful and made a lasting impression on me, and I loved school from the very start, so I knew I wanted to be a teacher at a young age. However, two particular teachers stand out in my mind as being especially inspirational to me--my 8th grade English teacher, Mrs. Cynthia Field, and my sophomore year high school English teacher, Miss Phyllis Muldoon. Both of these teachers challenged and encouraged me, fed my appetite for reading and writing, caused me to examine my own beliefs and reflect on important issues in life, and were passionate about what they taught. I hope to do the same for my own students.
MY APPROACH TO TEACHING: I view each child as a unique individual and think it is very important to get to know students as people in addition to pupils in order to teach them well.
CLOSING THOUGHT: “One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feelings. The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is the vital element for the growing plant and for the soul of the child.” –Carl Gustav Jung
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Reduced Pricing -- Microsoft, Adobe and Computer Supplies
For anyone who did not read through to the end of yesterday's post, I wanted to highlight the following:
We also have greatly reduced pricing available to students and staff for Microsoft and Adobe products at http://www.journeyed.com/edResources/
Journeyed.com
Also -- Woodbury teachers should check with our technology coordinator, Ian Gordon, for more specific Microsoft Office opportunities.
We also have greatly reduced pricing available to students and staff for Microsoft and Adobe products at http://www.journeyed.com/edResources/
Also -- Woodbury teachers should check with our technology coordinator, Ian Gordon, for more specific Microsoft Office opportunities.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Technology Software Ideas
From our business teacher, Jill Rossi:
Are you familiar with the free software available at http://www.openoffice.org/ ?
OpenOffice
This software is identical to Microsoft Office – Word, Powerpoint, Excel, Access and more. There is a movement for FREE and legal software downloads on the net. Many of my students say that they do not have Microsoft Office at home on their own computers. I share this website with them and advise them to speak to their parents before they download anything.
The Applications are easy to use and, most important, they are free and legal. The toolbars are almost identical to those in Microsoft.
I thought this might be worth sharing with our student body somehow – maybe the blog? The faculty may not be aware of this tool; they could share it with their students, especially when they assign a project to them. If our students cannot afford the Microsoft Office suite, this is available for free and will help them complete school projects and assignments.
I’m unaware of any “negatives” of this software. Mr. Gordon may be able to shed some light on anything he knows about it. I downloaded and installed it on a computer a few months ago and that person has been using it daily without any problems.
Check out the site….below is the conversion of the components in OpenOffice to the appropriate Microsoft product:
Writer = Word
Impress = PowerPoint
Calc = Excel
Base = Access
Enjoy!
From our Technology Coordinator, Ian Gordon:
Last time I used OpenOffice (a few years back) it was not quite as good as described above. I have not seen it recently, but I have heard of many people now using it without any problems.
Google Apps is another option for those with internet connectivity.
Some people are not comfortable with free – open source software, for whatever reason. We also have greatly reduced pricing available to students and staff for Microsoft and Adobe products at http://www.journeyed.com/edResources/ .
Journeyed.com
Are you familiar with the free software available at http://www.openoffice.org/ ?
This software is identical to Microsoft Office – Word, Powerpoint, Excel, Access and more. There is a movement for FREE and legal software downloads on the net. Many of my students say that they do not have Microsoft Office at home on their own computers. I share this website with them and advise them to speak to their parents before they download anything.
The Applications are easy to use and, most important, they are free and legal. The toolbars are almost identical to those in Microsoft.
I thought this might be worth sharing with our student body somehow – maybe the blog? The faculty may not be aware of this tool; they could share it with their students, especially when they assign a project to them. If our students cannot afford the Microsoft Office suite, this is available for free and will help them complete school projects and assignments.
I’m unaware of any “negatives” of this software. Mr. Gordon may be able to shed some light on anything he knows about it. I downloaded and installed it on a computer a few months ago and that person has been using it daily without any problems.
Check out the site….below is the conversion of the components in OpenOffice to the appropriate Microsoft product:
Writer = Word
Impress = PowerPoint
Calc = Excel
Base = Access
Enjoy!
From our Technology Coordinator, Ian Gordon:
Last time I used OpenOffice (a few years back) it was not quite as good as described above. I have not seen it recently, but I have heard of many people now using it without any problems.
Google Apps is another option for those with internet connectivity.
Some people are not comfortable with free – open source software, for whatever reason. We also have greatly reduced pricing available to students and staff for Microsoft and Adobe products at http://www.journeyed.com/edResources/ .
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Service Projects at Woodbury Jr.-Sr. High School
Steve Ireland collects paper for the class’s paper recycling project with the help of teacher Thilana Chandler and Byron Long.
(This entry was submitted by Ms. Alysa Cummings, Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction.)
For teacher Thilana Chandler’s special education class at Woodbury Junior-Senior High, school means much more than the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic. Her ten students, ranging in age from 15 to 18 years old, are also learning how good it feels to ‘give back’ through a variety of service projects.
Once a month, the students visit Woodbury’s Central Baptist Church and work with JoAnne Miller to prepare lunches, snacks and hot soup to feed the homeless in Camden. Each of these scheduled service visits lasts for about three hours’ time. After helping out in the kitchen, they work to get the food packaged and ready for delivery as well.
The students are also excited about their paper recycling project conducted right in the school building. Once or twice a week, the students move from classroom to classroom with a large bin on wheels, gathering up scrap paper for recycling.
Mrs. Chandler’s self-contained special education class also travels to West End Elementary School on a regular basis to read to Mrs. Gassner’s kindergarten and first grade aged special needs students. Mrs. Chandler is pleased with how all of these service projects are going. “For most of my students, it’s the first time they’ve every thought about helping others in this way,” she said.
Monday, February 04, 2008
Chinese New Year 4705
This year’s celebration of the Chinese New Year will take place tomorrow night, February 5, 2008. The Evergreen Avenue Elementary School will use the Jr.-Sr. High School Auditorium for the program. The event will start at 6:30 p.m.; this is a celebration of the world language study that takes place at Evergreen.
Students at Evergreen will present what they have learned in Mandarin, Chinese folk dance and songs.
This year is “The Year of the Mouse.”
Students at Evergreen will present what they have learned in Mandarin, Chinese folk dance and songs.
This year is “The Year of the Mouse.”
Thursday, January 31, 2008
High School Information for Parents
It is a busy evening at the high school on Wednesday, February 6th:
Parents of Seniors:
Parents of seniors are invited to bring their financial documents with them and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on-line. The one-hour hands-on workshop is intended to provide assistance for parents as they complete the on-line application.
This program starts at 6:00 p.m. and will be held in the ACE Lab on the third floor of the senior high school.
Parents of 8th Graders:
The parents of students about to enter the high school program are encouraged to attend a senior high school orientation. The program will provide an overall introduction to the high school academic program -- graduation requirements, new courses and the newly approved "Option II" program.
This program starts as 7:00 p.m. and will take place the auditorium.
Parents of Honors/AP students:
Finally parents of students in grades 8-11 are invited to find out more information on the honors/AP program and the expectations in specific courses. The honors/AP program will follow the 8th grade orientation in the auditorium.
This program starts as 8:00 p.m. and will take place the auditorium.
Call the counseling office if you have any questions at 853-0123, extension 225.
Parents of Seniors:
Parents of seniors are invited to bring their financial documents with them and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on-line. The one-hour hands-on workshop is intended to provide assistance for parents as they complete the on-line application.
This program starts at 6:00 p.m. and will be held in the ACE Lab on the third floor of the senior high school.
Parents of 8th Graders:
The parents of students about to enter the high school program are encouraged to attend a senior high school orientation. The program will provide an overall introduction to the high school academic program -- graduation requirements, new courses and the newly approved "Option II" program.
This program starts as 7:00 p.m. and will take place the auditorium.
Parents of Honors/AP students:
Finally parents of students in grades 8-11 are invited to find out more information on the honors/AP program and the expectations in specific courses. The honors/AP program will follow the 8th grade orientation in the auditorium.
This program starts as 8:00 p.m. and will take place the auditorium.
Call the counseling office if you have any questions at 853-0123, extension 225.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Safe Homes Network
Donna Lacovara is our SAC. The acronym stands for Substance Awareness Coordinator, but her role touches on more than specific “substance” related topics. As a result, we have taken to calling her a Student Assistance Coordinator. This SAC position was re-introduced for this 2007-08 school year. There were a couple of years here at Woodbury without anyone formally in the position.
Mrs. Lacovara has been actively building connections in various segments of the school community. Her role is district-wide, but she will often focus a good bit of her attention on the students and issues that impact them during the Jr.-Sr. High School years.
One new concept that has come from Mrs. Lacovara’s work is the idea of a Safe Homes pledge.
This was introduced at the evening meeting focusing on safety that was held last December. A link to the Safe Homes Pledge is now up and running on our website:
Go to the Pupil Services drop box and follow to the Safe Homes Network. It will take you to the actual pledge. At the bottom of that pledge is the list of families who have returned their forms to date.
Safe Homes Network
If you would like more information regarding the pledge you can call Mrs. Lacovara at 853-0123, ext. 251, or you can e-mail her at dlacovara@woodburysch.com.
Mrs. Lacovara has been actively building connections in various segments of the school community. Her role is district-wide, but she will often focus a good bit of her attention on the students and issues that impact them during the Jr.-Sr. High School years.
One new concept that has come from Mrs. Lacovara’s work is the idea of a Safe Homes pledge.
This was introduced at the evening meeting focusing on safety that was held last December. A link to the Safe Homes Pledge is now up and running on our website:
Go to the Pupil Services drop box and follow to the Safe Homes Network. It will take you to the actual pledge. At the bottom of that pledge is the list of families who have returned their forms to date.
If you would like more information regarding the pledge you can call Mrs. Lacovara at 853-0123, ext. 251, or you can e-mail her at dlacovara@woodburysch.com.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Walnut Street Elementary School
At last week’s Board of Education meeting, the Board’s Property Committee reported on a plan to address the structural concerns at the school. Currently, the district is not using the oldest portion of the building, the 1889 section, due to concerns related to the structure – walls, roof, and foundation.
The plan that the Board heard about and endorsed as the most logical method to pursue involves demolition a significant portion of the 1889 building, rebuilding the walls and roof on a small section of the 1889 building that would remain, and renovating some sections in the remaining portion of the school to best accommodate the academic program.
On Thursday afternoon of this week, the school administrators plan to meet with the faculty and staff of the school to review the plans and hear any ideas to improve on the design details. Additionally, Thursday evening, a similar session will be held for the parents/guardians of students attending Walnut. Flyers are being sent home today to advertise this 7:00 p.m. session.
Once this input is received, the school’s architect will finalize plans for submission to the New Jersey Department of Education for review and approval. The work is anticipated to occur during the summer of 2008.
The plan that the Board heard about and endorsed as the most logical method to pursue involves demolition a significant portion of the 1889 building, rebuilding the walls and roof on a small section of the 1889 building that would remain, and renovating some sections in the remaining portion of the school to best accommodate the academic program.
On Thursday afternoon of this week, the school administrators plan to meet with the faculty and staff of the school to review the plans and hear any ideas to improve on the design details. Additionally, Thursday evening, a similar session will be held for the parents/guardians of students attending Walnut. Flyers are being sent home today to advertise this 7:00 p.m. session.
Once this input is received, the school’s architect will finalize plans for submission to the New Jersey Department of Education for review and approval. The work is anticipated to occur during the summer of 2008.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Strategic Planning – 2nd Phase
We kicked off the second phase of the strategic planning initiative last Thursday evening with approximately 75 individuals. They will be involved in working on the five strategies associated with the draft plan and developing action plans to help achieve successful implementation.
These groups will be meeting weekly between now and May. Their final product will be presented to the thirty member planning committee that started this process back in November.
The final plan, with a full array of action plans prepared for implementation, should be ready for board approval in June.
For more information about the draft plan see . . .Woodbury Strategic Planning
These groups will be meeting weekly between now and May. Their final product will be presented to the thirty member planning committee that started this process back in November.
The final plan, with a full array of action plans prepared for implementation, should be ready for board approval in June.
For more information about the draft plan see . . .
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Beatles Program
FYI -- the location of the program Friday night is at the Jr.-Sr. High School, in the auditorium. (see yesterday's post)
It should be a fun Friday night! Enjoy.
It should be a fun Friday night! Enjoy.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Evergreen Avenue Elementary School's PTO is holding a fundraiser this Friday, January 25, called America's Tribute to the Beatles. Come out and enjoy a live band tribute to one of the most popular music groups.
The program starts @ 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:45 p.m.
Tickets cost $10
Proceeds benefit Evergreen Avenue Elementary School.
Tickets can be purchased at Evergreen Avenue Elementary School, in advance, or at the door.
The program starts @ 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:45 p.m.
Tickets cost $10
Proceeds benefit Evergreen Avenue Elementary School.
Tickets can be purchased at Evergreen Avenue Elementary School, in advance, or at the door.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Board of Education Meeting Wednesday Night
The regular monthly meeting of the Woodbury Board of Education will be held tomorrow, January 23, at 7:00 p.m. The agenda for the meeting is posted on the website.
Board Agendas
There are two presentations/discussion items scheduled for this month's meeting:
*Evergreen Avenue Elementary School Student Presentation
*Property Committee Update on Walnut Street Elementary School
There are two presentations/discussion items scheduled for this month's meeting:
*Evergreen Avenue Elementary School Student Presentation
*Property Committee Update on Walnut Street Elementary School
Friday, January 18, 2008
The Study of Water in 6th Grade
The following was a contribution to the blog by one of our 6th grade teachers, Cynthia Cammarota:
Last month, William Lynch, the father of one of Ms. Cammarota’s students, Michael Lynch, visited three of our sixth grade science classes.
Mr. Lynch is the Storm Water Coordinator and foreman with the city of Woodbury in the water department. Ms. Cammarota wrote that since the class was studying the water cycle, it seemed like a perfect opportunity to tie the learning that was taking place in the classroom with some real life issues involving water.
Mr. Lynch brought in water samples and demonstrated how the Woodbury water department tests for iron and other substances everyday. In addition, he explained where Woodbury obtains its water and the process to ensure it is safe for all to drink. The city of Woodbury, with an approximate population of 10,000 people and another 10,000 who come here to work each day, uses one million gallons of water daily. This number nearly doubles in the summer.
Mr. Lynch helped the sixth graders understand our fresh water supply is a precious resource.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Science at Home
There is an empty Gatoraide bottle on our kitchen windowsill. It has an apple core in it. “What’s this?”
My wife responded with a question to my question: “Weren’t you listening? That’s Noah’s compost project.” I had forgotten the conversation from the day before. Apparently, my second grader is starting an indoor compost pile!
This morning, I am finishing up a classroom observation – writing up the high school science class that I observed. The classroom conversation was rich with examples of how the students had meaningful conversations at home with parents and grandparents about how energy impacts their lives – cost of electric/gas, conservation efforts, etc. The students had obviously been triggered by the classroom discussion to continue grappling with the topic at home.
The bottom line is that the work our students do in school is made much richer if we can activate a connection with the home. What are your children learning about in school? Add to the conversation. Start a compost pile!
My wife responded with a question to my question: “Weren’t you listening? That’s Noah’s compost project.” I had forgotten the conversation from the day before. Apparently, my second grader is starting an indoor compost pile!
This morning, I am finishing up a classroom observation – writing up the high school science class that I observed. The classroom conversation was rich with examples of how the students had meaningful conversations at home with parents and grandparents about how energy impacts their lives – cost of electric/gas, conservation efforts, etc. The students had obviously been triggered by the classroom discussion to continue grappling with the topic at home.
The bottom line is that the work our students do in school is made much richer if we can activate a connection with the home. What are your children learning about in school? Add to the conversation. Start a compost pile!
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Sleep
I thought this was an interesting item in a recent issue of Scholastic Administrator (January 2008). I will admit that my kids were not that impressed as I tried to use this information in an effort to get the television shut off and the kids to bed a bit earlier last night!
Wake-Up Call!
By Alexander Russo | January 2008
Decreased sleep equals decreased learning
Sleeping students are good?
Kids get about an hour less sleep each night than they did 30 years ago. Researchers have now figured out how much sleep deprivation slows the learning process. An Israeli study found that fourth graders deprived of an hour’s sleep performed two grade levels worse than their counterparts. A Virginia study found that less sleep lowered elementary students’ scores on a vocabulary test by seven points. Other studies have shown that small decreases in sleep can affect grades for high school students. That’s why several districts have attempted to give children more sleep time.
In Edina, Minnesota, the start of high school was pushed back almost an hour, to 8:30, and top SAT scores went from under 1300 to 1500
In one year. In Lexington, Kentucky, the delayed start of high school has been connected to a decrease in teenage car-related deaths. While the sleep issue has long been a subject of debate, this new research gives the argument for more student Zs new weight.
Wake-Up Call!
By Alexander Russo | January 2008
Decreased sleep equals decreased learning
Sleeping students are good?
Kids get about an hour less sleep each night than they did 30 years ago. Researchers have now figured out how much sleep deprivation slows the learning process. An Israeli study found that fourth graders deprived of an hour’s sleep performed two grade levels worse than their counterparts. A Virginia study found that less sleep lowered elementary students’ scores on a vocabulary test by seven points. Other studies have shown that small decreases in sleep can affect grades for high school students. That’s why several districts have attempted to give children more sleep time.
In Edina, Minnesota, the start of high school was pushed back almost an hour, to 8:30, and top SAT scores went from under 1300 to 1500
In one year. In Lexington, Kentucky, the delayed start of high school has been connected to a decrease in teenage car-related deaths. While the sleep issue has long been a subject of debate, this new research gives the argument for more student Zs new weight.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Calendar Reminders
We have a faculty in-service program on Wednesday afternoon. This day, January 16, is an early dismissal day for students.
Also, next Monday, January 21, the schools will be closed in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
Also, next Monday, January 21, the schools will be closed in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
College Football Prospect
Dan Howey, Senior High School counselor, reports . . .
Shawney Kersey just got back from the U.S. Army All-American Combine which was held in San Antonio Texas. Shawney, a junior at Woodbury High School, was named an honorable mention for the Army All American All Combine Team and was considered to be one of the best in the country on Rivals.com (which is a serious website in gauging prospects).
rivals.com .
This is some of the text from the rivals.com site:
A REAL CATCH The wide receiver position brought out several very impressive prospects. Two who placed their names among the best in the country were Houston Lamar's Josh Gordon and Woodbury, N.J. speedster Shawney Kersey. . . At 6-foot-2 and 175 pounds, Kersey also has good size for the wide receiver position, but it is his speed that most will talk about going forward. He posted a 4.53 40-yard dash in the morning session and says he has run as low as 10.4 in the 100 meters and 21.7 in the 200 meters. Kersey does not stop at just speed, however. He made very precise cuts and got in and out of his breaks better than any receiver all day. It's no wonder in-state Rutgers has already extended a scholarship offer.
"I usually practice my route-running a lot," Kersey said. "I work on coming out of my break and speeding up and I have gotten pretty good at it. Once I get the route, I think about it and just do it."
Besides Rutgers, Kersey is also hearing from Boston College, North Carolina, Wisconsin, NC State and Syracuse, but the Orange want him for defense. Kersey would like to hear more from Michigan and West Virginia.
Shawney Kersey just got back from the U.S. Army All-American Combine which was held in San Antonio Texas. Shawney, a junior at Woodbury High School, was named an honorable mention for the Army All American All Combine Team and was considered to be one of the best in the country on Rivals.com (which is a serious website in gauging prospects).
This is some of the text from the rivals.com site:
A REAL CATCH The wide receiver position brought out several very impressive prospects. Two who placed their names among the best in the country were Houston Lamar's Josh Gordon and Woodbury, N.J. speedster Shawney Kersey. . . At 6-foot-2 and 175 pounds, Kersey also has good size for the wide receiver position, but it is his speed that most will talk about going forward. He posted a 4.53 40-yard dash in the morning session and says he has run as low as 10.4 in the 100 meters and 21.7 in the 200 meters. Kersey does not stop at just speed, however. He made very precise cuts and got in and out of his breaks better than any receiver all day. It's no wonder in-state Rutgers has already extended a scholarship offer.
"I usually practice my route-running a lot," Kersey said. "I work on coming out of my break and speeding up and I have gotten pretty good at it. Once I get the route, I think about it and just do it."
Besides Rutgers, Kersey is also hearing from Boston College, North Carolina, Wisconsin, NC State and Syracuse, but the Orange want him for defense. Kersey would like to hear more from Michigan and West Virginia.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Are You There?
Okay – so who are all of you? Often, I will come into contact with an individual who will reference reading something in the blog. Usually, it is when the blog entry is very personal – something more substantial – an item that I placed that has my own reaction to an issue or when there was something that I wrote pertaining to my own kids. So, I do know some of you. But, who are the rest of the readers of this blog?
We were averaging over 50 hits a day. Nothing fantastic, but a very regular number. Most recently, that has inched up to approximately 70 hits a day. The other thing that I know to be true is that the counter for the blog site only counts each site once –multiple inquiries from one address – like the school’s computers – only counts once. I do believe that means there a many more looking at the blog than that daily number indicates.
Also, I know that not all the readers check this site out EVERY day – so that average of 70 represents many more who are active in looking at the blog entries. Over a hundred? Two hundred? It is very hard to say. For me, it is satisfactory to hear the blog referenced from time to time in different circles; it provides enough of a sense that there is purpose in providing this vehicle for communication.
The bottom line is this – where are you? I am looking for up to 75 people to get involved in our district’s Strategic Planning Initiative.
Strategic Planning Initiative .
We have a nice core of people who have committed to the work, but we can use more. It would seem that if you are interested in Woodbury Schools – if you are one of the more regular blog readers – then you would be a perfect candidate to help in the process.
Of the many individuals who have signed up for the effort, I do not know if any have done so specifically as a result of reading about the initiative here on the blog.
I would like to challenge a few of you to do just that. Contact my office – e-mail me – that you would like be a part of one of the Action Teams that will be working from the end of January through the spring. Do this now. We are finalizing our lists this week. And, let me know that you are responding to this blog entry solicitation.
This work on Strategic Planning will be some of the most important work that is happening in the district this year. We need as many as possible -- parents, community members, business leaders, high school students, faculty, school support staff, alumni and any other member of the school community -- to join the effort.
Thanks!
We were averaging over 50 hits a day. Nothing fantastic, but a very regular number. Most recently, that has inched up to approximately 70 hits a day. The other thing that I know to be true is that the counter for the blog site only counts each site once –multiple inquiries from one address – like the school’s computers – only counts once. I do believe that means there a many more looking at the blog than that daily number indicates.
Also, I know that not all the readers check this site out EVERY day – so that average of 70 represents many more who are active in looking at the blog entries. Over a hundred? Two hundred? It is very hard to say. For me, it is satisfactory to hear the blog referenced from time to time in different circles; it provides enough of a sense that there is purpose in providing this vehicle for communication.
The bottom line is this – where are you? I am looking for up to 75 people to get involved in our district’s Strategic Planning Initiative.
We have a nice core of people who have committed to the work, but we can use more. It would seem that if you are interested in Woodbury Schools – if you are one of the more regular blog readers – then you would be a perfect candidate to help in the process.
Of the many individuals who have signed up for the effort, I do not know if any have done so specifically as a result of reading about the initiative here on the blog.
I would like to challenge a few of you to do just that. Contact my office – e-mail me – that you would like be a part of one of the Action Teams that will be working from the end of January through the spring. Do this now. We are finalizing our lists this week. And, let me know that you are responding to this blog entry solicitation.
This work on Strategic Planning will be some of the most important work that is happening in the district this year. We need as many as possible -- parents, community members, business leaders, high school students, faculty, school support staff, alumni and any other member of the school community -- to join the effort.
Thanks!
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Bloustein Distinguished Scholar Program
The Bloustein Distinguished Scholar Program, administered by the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA), recognizes the best and brightest New Jersey students in pursuit of their higher education goals. Eligible students receive $1000.00 annual awards that can be used at any New Jersey College or University. Woodbury High School is pleased to announce that the following students have been recognized for their academic excellence:
Back Row: Lucy Gassner, Eric Ulmer, Harry Webb, Billy Jones
Front Row: Molly Dennen, Sarah Hesser, Joann Saridakis, Jennifer Augelli
Back Row: Lucy Gassner, Eric Ulmer, Harry Webb, Billy Jones
Front Row: Molly Dennen, Sarah Hesser, Joann Saridakis, Jennifer Augelli
Monday, January 07, 2008
College Information Sessions
The following information was provided by Ed Murphy, Director of Pupil Personnel Services:
Eight of our graduates from the class of 2007 visited the high school on Friday, January 04, 2008 to meet with our current students about the transition from Woodbury High School to college.
Graduates met with current seniors and AVID 10 students during a general question and answer session in the auditorium and then visited with the AVID students in grades 9 &11 in the classroom.
In addition to sharing specifics about each of their schools and majors, students fielded questions ranging from campus life to how they made their final decision on which college to attend. Each of the graduates mentioned how well prepared they felt leaving Woodbury—a few even were able to start as second semester freshman on the basis of the AP classes they had taken.
The graduates encouraged our current underclassmen to take the most demanding courses available and to continue to work hard through their senior year. Several teachers were mentioned as having had a particularly strong impact on the students’ academic develop. Finally, graduates pointed out how having attended Woodbury helped to prepare them to function effectively on diverse college campuses.
Tom Hampel, Jeremy Clark, Tim Repas, Bruce Vail, Robert Burgess
Jackie Nisbett, Julie DiCarlo, and Christian Strey
Eight of our graduates from the class of 2007 visited the high school on Friday, January 04, 2008 to meet with our current students about the transition from Woodbury High School to college.
Graduates met with current seniors and AVID 10 students during a general question and answer session in the auditorium and then visited with the AVID students in grades 9 &11 in the classroom.
In addition to sharing specifics about each of their schools and majors, students fielded questions ranging from campus life to how they made their final decision on which college to attend. Each of the graduates mentioned how well prepared they felt leaving Woodbury—a few even were able to start as second semester freshman on the basis of the AP classes they had taken.
The graduates encouraged our current underclassmen to take the most demanding courses available and to continue to work hard through their senior year. Several teachers were mentioned as having had a particularly strong impact on the students’ academic develop. Finally, graduates pointed out how having attended Woodbury helped to prepare them to function effectively on diverse college campuses.
Tom Hampel, Jeremy Clark, Tim Repas, Bruce Vail, Robert Burgess
Jackie Nisbett, Julie DiCarlo, and Christian Strey
Friday, January 04, 2008
Happy Friday
My intention was for one additional resolution for the new year – to get back into a consistent pattern of running the Friday “Spotlight On . . . “ features in the blog. Last year, I was much better at making this part of the routine.
This year, there have been some technological issues that have caused some difficulty, but these should be easily overcome. Alas, I find myself sitting here this first Friday in 2008 without access to some of the information I need. So, I still hope to address this resolution – but starting next week!
For today, let me point you to an interesting, important blog posting from another site that I read the other day. It is very much “on target” with respect to my thinking about the power and importance that each of the adults here in the Woodbury community can have on our children.
It is critically important that we have a special view of each child like that expressed in this post:
Click Here
Let me wish you one last Happy New Year! Let’s make 2008 a great year for Woodbury.
This year, there have been some technological issues that have caused some difficulty, but these should be easily overcome. Alas, I find myself sitting here this first Friday in 2008 without access to some of the information I need. So, I still hope to address this resolution – but starting next week!
For today, let me point you to an interesting, important blog posting from another site that I read the other day. It is very much “on target” with respect to my thinking about the power and importance that each of the adults here in the Woodbury community can have on our children.
It is critically important that we have a special view of each child like that expressed in this post:
Let me wish you one last Happy New Year! Let’s make 2008 a great year for Woodbury.
Thursday, January 03, 2008
3 for 3
January 3. My fitness resolution for 2008 is a daily, morning walk – with my dog. He has been neglected a bit lately and so have my own personal needs for exercise. So, I am “killing two birds with one stone.” So far, it is working. Three days in a row.
Today was cold. And, it made me think about snow and snow closings. It seems like the thinking in the past has been that, because Woodbury is a walking district, we should be less likely to be impacted by snow.
I come at this from a bit of a different perspective. Due to the fact that we have so many students walking – and competing at intersections for safe passage with vehicles – I believe that the snow and ice actually impact us just as significantly as the bussing districts, if not even more significantly.
Those of you who are parents and blog readers likely have easy access to the school website and this blog. I intend to follow up any KYW posting of the school closing number with a message on both the school site and the blog when we have a need to alter our regular schedule due inclement weather. We also try to get the word out on the other major Philadelphia television station notices.
So --- that’s what I was thinking about on today’s walk. I hope your fitness resolutions are working during these early days of the new year. Hopefully, we will still be on course as the weeks unfold. And, hopefully, we will be able to continue without any WEEKDAY snow!
Today was cold. And, it made me think about snow and snow closings. It seems like the thinking in the past has been that, because Woodbury is a walking district, we should be less likely to be impacted by snow.
I come at this from a bit of a different perspective. Due to the fact that we have so many students walking – and competing at intersections for safe passage with vehicles – I believe that the snow and ice actually impact us just as significantly as the bussing districts, if not even more significantly.
Those of you who are parents and blog readers likely have easy access to the school website and this blog. I intend to follow up any KYW posting of the school closing number with a message on both the school site and the blog when we have a need to alter our regular schedule due inclement weather. We also try to get the word out on the other major Philadelphia television station notices.
So --- that’s what I was thinking about on today’s walk. I hope your fitness resolutions are working during these early days of the new year. Hopefully, we will still be on course as the weeks unfold. And, hopefully, we will be able to continue without any WEEKDAY snow!
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Happy New Year
Welcome to 2008. Can you believe it? It seems like the Y2K issue was just yesterday. And what happened to the 1900’s?
For those of us who grew up with the Jetson’s as a regular cartoon feature, this world of today can sometimes feel a bit like a déjà vu experience. My son has this i-touch that allows him to watch HD quality movies on a small, portable screen. A new GPS system for my car tells me what street to turn on as I approach! And, the Nitendo Wii allows you to bowl in some virtual world – without leaving the comforts of your family room.
Regardless of all the advances, some of my more enjoyable time this break was being able to read a couple books purely for pleasure. If you are looking for a resolution to keep for 2008, let this be one. It will help support the efforts of the school – read a book. You will be a good model for your child. Also, read with your young children, regularly. Reading is more important than mastering any of the new technologies.
Enjoy 2008! I wish you the best.
For those of us who grew up with the Jetson’s as a regular cartoon feature, this world of today can sometimes feel a bit like a déjà vu experience. My son has this i-touch that allows him to watch HD quality movies on a small, portable screen. A new GPS system for my car tells me what street to turn on as I approach! And, the Nitendo Wii allows you to bowl in some virtual world – without leaving the comforts of your family room.
Regardless of all the advances, some of my more enjoyable time this break was being able to read a couple books purely for pleasure. If you are looking for a resolution to keep for 2008, let this be one. It will help support the efforts of the school – read a book. You will be a good model for your child. Also, read with your young children, regularly. Reading is more important than mastering any of the new technologies.
Enjoy 2008! I wish you the best.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Strategic Planning
Please give some serious thought to getting involved with the district’s strategic planning initiative.
We are looking for up to seventy-five members of the school community to join one of five Action Teams. Each team will be focused on one of the five Strategies identified in the draft of the new strategic plan.
Please see the following link for more details:
Woodbury Public Schools Strategic Planning
I ask that you contact my secretary, Stacy Hoffman, at shoffman@woodburysch.com or at 853-0123 ext. 214, to express an interest. Please notify us ASAP – but no later than January 10th.
These committees will be comprised of our teachers, support staff, parents, alumni, business leaders, and high school students.
Thank you – and enjoy the holidays. Happy New Year.
We are looking for up to seventy-five members of the school community to join one of five Action Teams. Each team will be focused on one of the five Strategies identified in the draft of the new strategic plan.
Please see the following link for more details:
I ask that you contact my secretary, Stacy Hoffman, at shoffman@woodburysch.com or at 853-0123 ext. 214, to express an interest. Please notify us ASAP – but no later than January 10th.
These committees will be comprised of our teachers, support staff, parents, alumni, business leaders, and high school students.
Thank you – and enjoy the holidays. Happy New Year.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Thank You, Mrs. Carr
As this calendar year comes to an end, so, too, does the tenure of an important Woodbury Public Schools employee. Mrs. Jody Carr, my secretary and a Woodbury employee for the past twenty-five years, is set to retire.
It is impossible to completely describe here in this blog posting the full impact of the high quality, personalized, dedicated and intelligent work that Mrs. Carr provides on a daily basis. Those who have interacted with the Mrs. Carr know the truth of this statement. She always remembers a name – of an employee, parent or student. Also, it seems like any question that stumps anyone in the organization ultimately works it’s way to Mrs. Carr. We will be forced to find new ways of doing business come January, and Mrs. Carr will be missed.
Jody, thank you for all that you have done for the Woodbury school community.
It is impossible to completely describe here in this blog posting the full impact of the high quality, personalized, dedicated and intelligent work that Mrs. Carr provides on a daily basis. Those who have interacted with the Mrs. Carr know the truth of this statement. She always remembers a name – of an employee, parent or student. Also, it seems like any question that stumps anyone in the organization ultimately works it’s way to Mrs. Carr. We will be forced to find new ways of doing business come January, and Mrs. Carr will be missed.
Jody, thank you for all that you have done for the Woodbury school community.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Happy Holidays
I have plans for two additional, specific blog entries prior to the winter break, so let me take time today to simply wish all of you a happy, restful winter break. I hope that you all enjoy time with family and friends while the schools are closed. Today, our lives seem especially hectic – the opportunity to slow down a bit, even for just a few extra days, is a gift unto itself.
After the next two blog entries, I plan to take a break from posting until the new year.
Enjoy!
After the next two blog entries, I plan to take a break from posting until the new year.
Enjoy!
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Board of Education Meeting Wednesday Night
The regular monthly meeting of the Woodbury Board of Education will be held tomorrow, December 19, at 7:00 p.m. The agenda for the meeting is posted on the website:
Board Agenda -- December 2007
There are two presentations scheduled for this evenings meeting:
*Walnut Street Elementary School Student Presentation
*Strategic Planning Update
There are two presentations scheduled for this evenings meeting:
*Walnut Street Elementary School Student Presentation
*Strategic Planning Update
Monday, December 17, 2007
Budget Development is a Year-Round Event
The school year budget year runs from July through June, so this month of December marks the halfway point of the school year. The teachers have been gathering data over the past month or so planning for the 2008-09 school year budget needs. This week, the principals and other administrators will be meeting with me and our business administrator to gather all the budget requests so that the full district budget can be developed.
The development process continues through January and February. The full budget is further developed, difficult decisions are made, and a budget is finalized once all the state funding issues are known. In the past, the state funding numbers have been provided very late in the process. This year, we are hoping to have information from the state a bit earlier. Just last week, the governor released a proposal for a new school funding formula that would be very favorable to the Woodbury Public Schools. At this time, it is just a proposal; we await final word so that we can begin to factor this state funding into our budget plans.
Ultimately, the board approves the budget to go to the voters some time in March. We will hold a public hearing. Then, there is an April vote by the residents.
The Board of Education started planning for this budget development cycle in August. Our administrators met in September to receive the parameters for the 2008-09 process, and teachers received information in October. As you can see, this budget development cycle is almost a year-round event.
As we get closer to the final, proposed budget – especially as we get more information on possible new state funding – I will provide some updates here on the blog.
The development process continues through January and February. The full budget is further developed, difficult decisions are made, and a budget is finalized once all the state funding issues are known. In the past, the state funding numbers have been provided very late in the process. This year, we are hoping to have information from the state a bit earlier. Just last week, the governor released a proposal for a new school funding formula that would be very favorable to the Woodbury Public Schools. At this time, it is just a proposal; we await final word so that we can begin to factor this state funding into our budget plans.
Ultimately, the board approves the budget to go to the voters some time in March. We will hold a public hearing. Then, there is an April vote by the residents.
The Board of Education started planning for this budget development cycle in August. Our administrators met in September to receive the parameters for the 2008-09 process, and teachers received information in October. As you can see, this budget development cycle is almost a year-round event.
As we get closer to the final, proposed budget – especially as we get more information on possible new state funding – I will provide some updates here on the blog.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Boys, Reading, and Fun
This school year, two of my sons have become active, interested readers of fiction. I attribute this largely to the fact that they have been provided flexibility in their reading selections – and then were guided to pieces that were of high interest to them.
At this time, it is my sixth grader who is currently on an extended reading jag. He is my “sports guy.” Anything athletic – whether it involves playing or watching on television -- captures his interest. It is exciting to see him getting up early on a Saturday so that he can read some of "his book" prior to anyone else getting up.
He is in the fourth book of a seven book series – I think that is what he told me. His mom is reading to catch up to him. I joined in this week. It is not great literature, but it is good reading for him. The series is by Margaret Peterson Haddix – The Shadow Children sequence. The first book in the sequence is Among the Hidden.
Last month when I went in to read to the Walnut 5th graders, I took in a favorite of my wife’s when she reads to my children – Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle. What is interesting about that book – and we talked about it with the Walnut students – is that it was written in 1947. Sixty years later, the stories are still funny – and fun to read!
This same premise is true for any learning, if it is enjoyable (read – “fun”) then we gravitate to it. Now, I have this sixth grade basketball player who is a reader. Plowing through his 150 – 200 page books, anxious to finish so that he can start the next book in the series!
Monday, December 10, 2007
Winter Sports
Winter sports are underway. The swim team is already into official competition mode, our basketball teams open up this Friday, wrestling is at Gateway on Saturday, and winter track continues to train for meets later in the winter.
You can catch a boys varsity basketball game at 7:00 p.m. Friday in the Cap Paine gymnasium. We have our new bleachers installed – thanks to the donation from the estate of alumnus Bob Lukens.
Good luck to all!
You can catch a boys varsity basketball game at 7:00 p.m. Friday in the Cap Paine gymnasium. We have our new bleachers installed – thanks to the donation from the estate of alumnus Bob Lukens.
Good luck to all!
Thursday, December 06, 2007
What's Happening?
Grant Shivers, our Director of Athletics and Activities, schedules many of the school activities – especially at the Jr.-Sr. High School. There is a relatively new software program that can be viewed from our website under Athletics/Schedules.
This site also shows both athletic and nonathletic activities that are taking place. It is another resource when trying to keep up and find out what is going on around the schools.
Here is an example of the schedules “monthly” view for December.
December Activities
Again, the active feature can be found on our website under Athletics – Schedules.
This site also shows both athletic and nonathletic activities that are taking place. It is another resource when trying to keep up and find out what is going on around the schools.
Here is an example of the schedules “monthly” view for December.
Again, the active feature can be found on our website under Athletics – Schedules.
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Jr.-Sr. High School Conferences
It has been a busy couple of weeks. Here is another reminder:
The Jr.-Sr. High School will hold the first Parent – Teacher conferences for the 2007-2008 school year on December 5 and December 6.
Three (3) sessions are scheduled:
Session I: Wednesday (Dec 5) afternoon: 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Session II: Thursday (Dec 6) afternoon: 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Session III: Thursday (Dec 6) evening: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
No appointment is necessary.
The Jr.-Sr. High School will hold the first Parent – Teacher conferences for the 2007-2008 school year on December 5 and December 6.
Three (3) sessions are scheduled:
Session I: Wednesday (Dec 5) afternoon: 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Session II: Thursday (Dec 6) afternoon: 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Session III: Thursday (Dec 6) evening: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
No appointment is necessary.
Monday, December 03, 2007
School Safety – Everyone’s Business
Reminder . . . We will have our School Safety – Everyone’s Business meeting tomorrow, December 4, at 7:00 p.m. in the Jr.-Sr. High School auditorium. All are invited.
The agenda is scheduled to run approximately an hour and a half. We hope to see a good number of those in the school community in attendance.
Woodbury Public Schools
School Safety – Everyone’s Business
December 4, 2007
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Agenda
• Overview/Welcome -- Recent Events/Today's Climate
Joseph Jones, Superintendent
• Drug/Alcohol -- Today's Youth and Use
Donna Lacovara, Student Assistance Coordinator
• Campus Security -- Crisis Plan and Locked Buildings
Morgan Meehan, School Resource Officer
Vince Myers, West End Memorial Principal
• Internet Safety/Cell Phones -- 24-hours Concerns
Denise Dunham , Jr.-Sr. High School Principal
Jeffrey Adams, Walnut Street School Principal
• Bullying
Jason Vivadelli, Junior High School Assistant Principal
Tonya Breland, Evergreen Avenue School Principal
• Gangs
Steve Morris, Senior High School Assistant Principal
Grant Shivers, Director of Athletics & Student Activities
• WeTip & Gloucester Alert
Edward Murphy, Director of Pupil Personnel Services
• Questions & Answers
Joseph Jones, Superintendent
The agenda is scheduled to run approximately an hour and a half. We hope to see a good number of those in the school community in attendance.
Woodbury Public Schools
School Safety – Everyone’s Business
December 4, 2007
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Agenda
• Overview/Welcome -- Recent Events/Today's Climate
Joseph Jones, Superintendent
• Drug/Alcohol -- Today's Youth and Use
Donna Lacovara, Student Assistance Coordinator
• Campus Security -- Crisis Plan and Locked Buildings
Morgan Meehan, School Resource Officer
Vince Myers, West End Memorial Principal
• Internet Safety/Cell Phones -- 24-hours Concerns
Denise Dunham , Jr.-Sr. High School Principal
Jeffrey Adams, Walnut Street School Principal
• Bullying
Jason Vivadelli, Junior High School Assistant Principal
Tonya Breland, Evergreen Avenue School Principal
• Gangs
Steve Morris, Senior High School Assistant Principal
Grant Shivers, Director of Athletics & Student Activities
• WeTip & Gloucester Alert
Edward Murphy, Director of Pupil Personnel Services
• Questions & Answers
Joseph Jones, Superintendent
Friday, November 30, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
More on Today's Technology
This post relates to yesterday’s and is more for the teachers who are readers of this blog.
There are many times when, as teachers, we will be looking to put together rubrics for scoring projects or other performance items that students will be producing in order to provide our students with the rationale behind the final grade and to help guide them as they work to complete the project.
Maybe you have already found a website that provides you with technological help to accomplish this task – but, if you have not even realized that this type of site is out there and available, this post on another blog may help you the next time you go to construct a new rubric for the classroom (there are links in this post that will take you to various rubric making sites):
LeaderTalk -- Tap into the Network - Ideas about Online Rubric Creators
There are many times when, as teachers, we will be looking to put together rubrics for scoring projects or other performance items that students will be producing in order to provide our students with the rationale behind the final grade and to help guide them as they work to complete the project.
Maybe you have already found a website that provides you with technological help to accomplish this task – but, if you have not even realized that this type of site is out there and available, this post on another blog may help you the next time you go to construct a new rubric for the classroom (there are links in this post that will take you to various rubric making sites):
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Technology Flashcards
I guess we are rarely, truly surprised by technology today. We seemingly can do almost anything!
Nonetheless, I do find myself caught by surprise at times. Here’s a simple example. My oldest son was studying the periodic table for chemistry class and he made himself flashcards to help memorize the symbols. As he got individual elements committed to memory, he would move those cards out of his pile. Simple. We have all done something similar at some point in our schooling experiences.
Yesterday, I came home from work and two of my younger sons are at the computer. The second grader was obviously playing a game. My eighth grader – the technology kid – appeared to be also playing a game, but he showed me that he was actually studying for social studies.
He was studying states and capitals – and he found a site where the flashcards were already made for you! You could “flip” through them, discard ones that you knew, hold on to the ones that you still need to work on, etc.
It wasn’t that I was surprised that the site existed, but it was more that I was surprised that I didn’t think about that possibility when my oldest was making his “old-fashioned” index card flashcards!
The site that my son used was quia.com – he says that they have used it in his school from time to time. Here are two examples of the computer flashcards:
States & Capitals
Periodic Table -- 40 elements
Nonetheless, I do find myself caught by surprise at times. Here’s a simple example. My oldest son was studying the periodic table for chemistry class and he made himself flashcards to help memorize the symbols. As he got individual elements committed to memory, he would move those cards out of his pile. Simple. We have all done something similar at some point in our schooling experiences.
Yesterday, I came home from work and two of my younger sons are at the computer. The second grader was obviously playing a game. My eighth grader – the technology kid – appeared to be also playing a game, but he showed me that he was actually studying for social studies.
He was studying states and capitals – and he found a site where the flashcards were already made for you! You could “flip” through them, discard ones that you knew, hold on to the ones that you still need to work on, etc.
It wasn’t that I was surprised that the site existed, but it was more that I was surprised that I didn’t think about that possibility when my oldest was making his “old-fashioned” index card flashcards!
The site that my son used was quia.com – he says that they have used it in his school from time to time. Here are two examples of the computer flashcards:
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
International Literacy Day @ Walnut
Thanks to Mrs. Toole, library aide at the Walnut Street School for organizing guest readers for the students on International Literacy Day, November 13th.
Those participated in reading to the classes include – Ms. Cummings, Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction; Officer Meehan, School Resource Officer; Mr. Toole, Board of Education member; Mrs. Long, from the Woodbury Public Library, and me.
It was a fun way to place some added interest in reading.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Strategic Planning
As noted in this blog earlier, The Woodbury Public Schools will embark on a Strategic Planning initiative during this 2007-08 school year. The early part of the year has focused on determining a planning committee and finalizing the details associated with the first meeting.
The first meeting of the planning committee will be this weekend – Thursday (evening), Friday (daytime & evening), and Saturday (daytime). The group’s intense work schedule is designed to allow the accomplishment of the necessary tasks toward a completed draft copy of a new strategic plan for the school district.
There are thirty individuals associated with the school community involved in this first phase of the strategic plan. We will need many more individuals to be involved with the development of various aspects of the draft plan once the early work of this group is completed.
We have some names of people who have already expressed an interested but were unable to be placed onto the planning committee due to size constraints. These individuals will be invited to be part of Phase II of the planning initiative. Anyone else interested in working on the second phase of the planning process should contact my office by phone or send an e-mail.
The work of the action teams developing the various strategies associated with the draft plan will begin some time toward the end of January. This will also be intense work – meetings will likely occur weekly for a period of approximately three months.
The planning committee working this week is comprised of the following individuals:
Dr. Jeffrey Adams, Elementary Principal/Special Services Supervisor
Ms. Aquanetta Allen, Support Staff
Ms. Patricia Bassler, Jr.-Sr. HS Parent
Dr. Jeffrey Bessey, HS Parent
Ms. Tonya Breland, Elementary Principal
Ms. Lynn Dennen, Board Member
Dr. James DiMarino, Parent
Mrs. Denise Dunham, High School Principal
Ms. Janice Esters, Parent
Ms. Ellen Firth, Junior High School Teacher
Mr. William Fleming, Community Leader
Mr. Frank Gwalthney, Board Member
Ms. Diane Hill, Board Member
Mr. David Jenkins, Support Staff
Mr. Joseph Jones, Superintendent
Ms. Sharron Knauss, District Librarian
Ms. Gwen Maddox, Community Leader
Mrs. Katherine Mangeri, Parent
Officer Morgan Meehan, School Resource Officer
Ms. Madeline Mills, Elementary Nurse
Mr. Dustin Moore, Parent
Mr. Steven Morris, Assistant Principal
Mr. Edward Murphy, Director of Pupil Personnel Services
Mr. Richard Philips, Parent
Ms. Christina Pierce, Elementary Teacher
Ms. Jacqueline Rosario, High School Teacher
Miss Raseeda Roundtree, Student
Ms. Beth Stanek, Elementary Teacher
Mr. James Torres, Student
Ms. Liza White, Parent
The first meeting of the planning committee will be this weekend – Thursday (evening), Friday (daytime & evening), and Saturday (daytime). The group’s intense work schedule is designed to allow the accomplishment of the necessary tasks toward a completed draft copy of a new strategic plan for the school district.
There are thirty individuals associated with the school community involved in this first phase of the strategic plan. We will need many more individuals to be involved with the development of various aspects of the draft plan once the early work of this group is completed.
We have some names of people who have already expressed an interested but were unable to be placed onto the planning committee due to size constraints. These individuals will be invited to be part of Phase II of the planning initiative. Anyone else interested in working on the second phase of the planning process should contact my office by phone or send an e-mail.
The work of the action teams developing the various strategies associated with the draft plan will begin some time toward the end of January. This will also be intense work – meetings will likely occur weekly for a period of approximately three months.
The planning committee working this week is comprised of the following individuals:
Dr. Jeffrey Adams, Elementary Principal/Special Services Supervisor
Ms. Aquanetta Allen, Support Staff
Ms. Patricia Bassler, Jr.-Sr. HS Parent
Dr. Jeffrey Bessey, HS Parent
Ms. Tonya Breland, Elementary Principal
Ms. Lynn Dennen, Board Member
Dr. James DiMarino, Parent
Mrs. Denise Dunham, High School Principal
Ms. Janice Esters, Parent
Ms. Ellen Firth, Junior High School Teacher
Mr. William Fleming, Community Leader
Mr. Frank Gwalthney, Board Member
Ms. Diane Hill, Board Member
Mr. David Jenkins, Support Staff
Mr. Joseph Jones, Superintendent
Ms. Sharron Knauss, District Librarian
Ms. Gwen Maddox, Community Leader
Mrs. Katherine Mangeri, Parent
Officer Morgan Meehan, School Resource Officer
Ms. Madeline Mills, Elementary Nurse
Mr. Dustin Moore, Parent
Mr. Steven Morris, Assistant Principal
Mr. Edward Murphy, Director of Pupil Personnel Services
Mr. Richard Philips, Parent
Ms. Christina Pierce, Elementary Teacher
Ms. Jacqueline Rosario, High School Teacher
Miss Raseeda Roundtree, Student
Ms. Beth Stanek, Elementary Teacher
Mr. James Torres, Student
Ms. Liza White, Parent
Friday, November 16, 2007
Holiday House Tour Information
The Woodbury Holiday House Tour – 2007
Sponsored by the Woodbury Jr.-Sr. High School
Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA)
Saturday, December 1
4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $20, -- in advance -- may be purchased at the Woodbury Public Library, Edward’s Hairstyling, or Foxfire Accessories.
Tickets: $25 – day of event – may be purchased at:
Woodbury Mews
122 Green Avenue
(Refreshments will be served; Woodbury High School Traveling Choir will perform)
For additional information call: 845-4824
Sponsored by the Woodbury Jr.-Sr. High School
Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA)
Saturday, December 1
4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $20, -- in advance -- may be purchased at the Woodbury Public Library, Edward’s Hairstyling, or Foxfire Accessories.
Tickets: $25 – day of event – may be purchased at:
Woodbury Mews
122 Green Avenue
(Refreshments will be served; Woodbury High School Traveling Choir will perform)
For additional information call: 845-4824
Turkeys descend on 8th graders
pictured with turkey: Darrell Bush
Ms. Firth and Mrs. Corley have let the turkeys out of the pen in 8th grade. Using paper lunch bags and construction paper, each 8th grade literacy student created an original turkey complete with feathers, feet, eyes, and other decorations.
The turkeys and students are on the move in the hallways and are attending all scheduled classes together including lunch. In addition, turkeys are attending after school activities and traveling home with students each day for the entire week (11/12-11/18).
Students will also introduce their turkeys to teachers, administrators, family and friends. During their time together, students and their fowl will keep a 5-day journal chronicling their adventures, hopes, fears, and experiences. From these journal notes, students will write a formal essay/story from the turkeys’ points of view and submit both the journal and essay during Thanksgiving week.
[The students are reading Of Mice and Men and may choose 1 of 2 options:
1) Show a parallel between the turkey’s experiences, hopes, etc. to self
2) Show a parallel between the turkey’s experiences, hopes, etc., and one or more of the characters and/or plot points in the story.
The students are taking good care of the turkeys. George and Lennie do this for one another (mostly George) and this drives home the friendship theme in the book.]
This entry was submitted by Mrs. Firth -- thank you!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Wagon Ho!
Woodbury second graders “pan for gold” in the style of pioneers.
A Pioneer Living program was held at West End School on November 14th from 9-11:00 am.
The Pioneer Living exhibit is a traveling hands-on museum. Dozens of artifacts and hands on activities turned the West End all purpose room into an 1800s pioneer settlement. But instead of just looking at all of the artifacts and antiques, students were encouraged to touch them and interact.
Here are some of the pioneer activities that Woodbury Public School second graders learned about in a hands on way:
Panning for gold
Grinding corn into flour
Washing clothes on a washboard
Carding and hand spinning yarn
Rolling out bread dough
Tin Cup Adventures originates out of Portland, Oregon. Their Pioneer Living exhibit has visited over 15,000 schools in 45 different states since 1989. They visited with Woodbury Public School students this year as part of the district’s Enrichment program that provides school wide enrichment experiences to all students over the course of the school year.
(This entry was provided by Ms. Cummings, Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction)
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Reminder . . . NCAA Workshop
There will be an NCAA workshop tonight, Wednesday, November 14, at 7:00 p.m. in the Jr.-Sr. High School Auditorium. The counseling department has arranged for a compliance officer from Rutgers University to speak on eligibility issues and college athletics.
This workshop is open to anyone (students and parents) in the school community. You may be interested in attending if you believe that the possibility of participating in college athletics is in your child's future.
This workshop is open to anyone (students and parents) in the school community. You may be interested in attending if you believe that the possibility of participating in college athletics is in your child's future.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
More Turkey
Why are Woodbury Jr Sr HS students taking such good care of these birds one week before the Thanksgiving holiday?
Sports Fans
Congratulations to the boys soccer team for their play in the NJSIAA playoffs. Both the win at Clayton and the home defeat in the second round against Pt. Pleasant Beach were exciting displays of strong soccer skill. The many fans in attendance were proud of the team performance.
On the football front, Saturday proved to be an exciting victory in the first round of the NJSIAA South Jersey Group I playoffs. The team now moves to Paulsboro for a rematch. That game will be played away on this upcoming Saturday -- 1:00 p.m. Good luck, Coach Valentine and all our varsity players!
On the football front, Saturday proved to be an exciting victory in the first round of the NJSIAA South Jersey Group I playoffs. The team now moves to Paulsboro for a rematch. That game will be played away on this upcoming Saturday -- 1:00 p.m. Good luck, Coach Valentine and all our varsity players!
Monday, November 12, 2007
Welcome Back
We tried to schedule this November month so that we concentrated the breaks and various activities. November is a buys month in New Jersey schools.
We placed two full-day professional development days that are part of our calendar into this past week. The school year started with two of these days before the students began and will end with one last professional development day after students finish. So, there will be no other scheduled full-days off this year other than holidays.
Also, for the elementary schools, we moved the first marking period conferences up a bit. In past years, they were scheduled for the week after Thanksgiving, but that created another week of disrupted instruction (with early dismissal days). You will note that this year, we have two early dismissal days on the Monday and Tuesday right before Thanksgiving for the elementary schools. Conferences will take place that Monday afternoon, Tuesday afternoon and evening, and Wednesday morning.
Notice that the elementary students do not have school on Wednesday of next week. The Jr.-Sr. High School will run regular school days on Monday and Tuesday next week and an early dismissal day on Wednesday.
Thanksgiving is right around the corner!
We placed two full-day professional development days that are part of our calendar into this past week. The school year started with two of these days before the students began and will end with one last professional development day after students finish. So, there will be no other scheduled full-days off this year other than holidays.
Also, for the elementary schools, we moved the first marking period conferences up a bit. In past years, they were scheduled for the week after Thanksgiving, but that created another week of disrupted instruction (with early dismissal days). You will note that this year, we have two early dismissal days on the Monday and Tuesday right before Thanksgiving for the elementary schools. Conferences will take place that Monday afternoon, Tuesday afternoon and evening, and Wednesday morning.
Notice that the elementary students do not have school on Wednesday of next week. The Jr.-Sr. High School will run regular school days on Monday and Tuesday next week and an early dismissal day on Wednesday.
Thanksgiving is right around the corner!
Monday, November 05, 2007
High School Playoffs
Our boys soccer team (6th seed) won their first round game last Friday against Clayton (3rd seed). Now, we play a home game tomorrow. Come out to the soccer field for the 2 p.m. contest against Pt. Pleasant Beach (7th seed). The winner will play in the South Jersey Group I final on Friday.
NJSIAA South Jersey Group I Boys Soccer Bracket
Our football team (3rd seed) is scheduled for a first round, home game on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. against Gloucester City (6th seed).
NJSIAA South Jersey Group I Football Bracket
Enjoy some exciting high school sports action. Good luck to all!
Our football team (3rd seed) is scheduled for a first round, home game on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. against Gloucester City (6th seed).
Enjoy some exciting high school sports action. Good luck to all!
Friday, November 02, 2007
A High School Musical
If you do not have Oliver tickets for the Pitman Theater (see below), save yourself the travel time and simply attend our Junior High School production of "A High School Musical." What a fun night! The director, Mrs. Linda Webb, and her student actors put on a very entertaining show.
The final two performances are Friday (tonight!) and Saturday evening at 7:00 p.m. This is a one-act show that last approximately one and a half hours. The students did a wonderful job last night at the opening performance.
Congratulations to all!
The final two performances are Friday (tonight!) and Saturday evening at 7:00 p.m. This is a one-act show that last approximately one and a half hours. The students did a wonderful job last night at the opening performance.
Congratulations to all!
Got Tickets? . . . A Donation
Thanks to one of our teachers, a Woodbury elementary student will be attending tonight’s performance of Oliver at Pitman’s Broadway Theatre. Two tickets were donated to the Got Tickets? effort.
See more on Got Tickets? at the September 13th post --Week of September 9th
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(FYI: I will post a Friday Spotlight on a new teacher later today!)
See more on Got Tickets? at the September 13th post --
.
(FYI: I will post a Friday Spotlight on a new teacher later today!)
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Move Over Sugar
A quick tour of our elementary schools for the Halloween parties showed how our school community is moving quickly toward the expectations of new national and state guidelines for what types of snacks students are served during the school day.
Grapes, cheese and crackers, soft pretzels, pumpkin bread, and even caramel coated apples made right in the classroom were all examples of this conscious effort yesterday. Sugar is on the way out, and our parents are helping support the school nutrition policy by making choices for what snacks to bring into the classroom that adhere to the healthier requirements.
Thank you!
Grapes, cheese and crackers, soft pretzels, pumpkin bread, and even caramel coated apples made right in the classroom were all examples of this conscious effort yesterday. Sugar is on the way out, and our parents are helping support the school nutrition policy by making choices for what snacks to bring into the classroom that adhere to the healthier requirements.
Thank you!
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