For my girls, learning comes easily. Brandi has been in the "smart kids" program since third grade, and she loves the challenge of the things they do. Kasi is in mostly honor classes, and will be inducted into the Beta Club at the end of November. Neither daughter studies, yet they both do well on tests.
Ryan, on the other hand, has to work really hard just to get passing grades. I know part of his problem is being un-medicated for his ADHD (if you remember he was having heart issues on all of the stimulant medicines, and the non-stimulant medications had no effect on his ADHD, so we took him off of everything last school year). Right now, he is only taking one "real" class, chemistry, and he did pass the first semester by the skin of his teeth. He has no problem passing his auto mechanic class or driver's ed.
I am worried about him failing chemistry, and if he does, he will have to quit his job. My only rules for him working are that he gets up and goes to school every day, even after working a late shift, and that he passes his classes. I am thinking about looking into online tutoring to maybe help him out a bit. I know if he could find a way for it to "click" for him, he would do well. That said, chemistry is the only class I ever came close to failing when I was in high school, because I just didn't "get it". So I can kind of understand his not getting it either. I am hoping that a little extra help will keep his grade up above failing.
Do any of you have any tricks for learning chemistry that I could pass along to him?
Showing posts with label school. Show all posts
Showing posts with label school. Show all posts
Monday, October 29, 2012
Thursday, September 27, 2012
I Can Do It!
I never graduated from college. I did take a few classes at a local community college when I lived in New York, but I never did get a degree. Looking back, I wish I had finished, but it just wasn't meant to be for me. I think about going back to school sometimes, but then the thought of having to fit classes, and homework, and writing papers into my already busy schedule makes me think twice about it.
I am sure I could do it, though, if I really wanted to. I mean, I have done so many things I didn't think I would ever do in the past year and a half, (like getting a job, driving, being a single mom who does it all!) why shouldn't I attempt to go back to school? I mean, my kids are old enough that they do not need constant supervision, though Brandi still can not stay home alone. I find time most days to be on Facebook and pinterest, so who is to say that I couldn't find time to do homework? Attending classes might be a challenge, but they offer so many courses online these days, I am sure I could find time for that, too.
I was never good at writing papers, though, I would hate to have someone else write custom term papers for me, but if it's acceptable, why not? We could all use a little help every now and again.
My mom was about my age when she went back to school and became a nurse. My sister, who works full time and has two small children, is currently in school. If they can do it, I'm sure I can, too.
I am sure I could do it, though, if I really wanted to. I mean, I have done so many things I didn't think I would ever do in the past year and a half, (like getting a job, driving, being a single mom who does it all!) why shouldn't I attempt to go back to school? I mean, my kids are old enough that they do not need constant supervision, though Brandi still can not stay home alone. I find time most days to be on Facebook and pinterest, so who is to say that I couldn't find time to do homework? Attending classes might be a challenge, but they offer so many courses online these days, I am sure I could find time for that, too.
I was never good at writing papers, though, I would hate to have someone else write custom term papers for me, but if it's acceptable, why not? We could all use a little help every now and again.
My mom was about my age when she went back to school and became a nurse. My sister, who works full time and has two small children, is currently in school. If they can do it, I'm sure I can, too.
Grades
My son has the easiest schedule this year. He is taking driver's education and another mechanics class. The only "real" class he has is chemistry, and he is struggling. I am sure some of you remember the problems he was having with his blood pressure while on his ADHD medicine and why he had to come off of it. He still struggles with his attention span, though he is doing better. He recently got a job at a local fast food restaurant, and one of the conditions of him keeping that job is keeping his grades up.
I was a little disappointed last week when his chemistry teacher called me to let me know that Ryan is missing some assignments, and therefor failing the class. Since we are only a month or so into this school year, his teacher has given him the opportunity to make up the work. The thing is, Ryan struggles with science. He failed biology last year and ended up in summer school. I want him to get interested in science, so that maybe his grades will be better. I thought about having him read Science Daily, or maybe finding some type of chemistry game online. I need something to grab his attention.
I was also thinking about rewarding him if he raises his grades, with something from GeekAlerts.com. It's easier for my girls to get good grades. In fact, they are both honor roll students, and if I reward Ryan for bringing his grades up, I should be rewarding the girls for making good grades to begin with, right? Maybe I could use some ProFlowers coupon codes and send them some flowers when report cards come out. I know they all deserve something special for their hard work.
I was a little disappointed last week when his chemistry teacher called me to let me know that Ryan is missing some assignments, and therefor failing the class. Since we are only a month or so into this school year, his teacher has given him the opportunity to make up the work. The thing is, Ryan struggles with science. He failed biology last year and ended up in summer school. I want him to get interested in science, so that maybe his grades will be better. I thought about having him read Science Daily, or maybe finding some type of chemistry game online. I need something to grab his attention.
I was also thinking about rewarding him if he raises his grades, with something from GeekAlerts.com. It's easier for my girls to get good grades. In fact, they are both honor roll students, and if I reward Ryan for bringing his grades up, I should be rewarding the girls for making good grades to begin with, right? Maybe I could use some ProFlowers coupon codes and send them some flowers when report cards come out. I know they all deserve something special for their hard work.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Math Tricks For Division
Last night, Brandi needed help with her homework, especially math. She is in fifth grade this year, and they are starting the year off doing long division. Last year, she started learning the basics, doing simple long division. This year, the problems are getting harder. Her teacher gave her a "cheat sheet" with ways to figure out if certain numbers, like 2 or 3 can divide into a bigger number evenly. You would think that giving the kids shortcuts would make things easier, but not for my child. I had to help her with just about every problem, because it is hard for her to remember the cheats for each number.
For instance, we all know that if a number is even, it is divisible by 2. Or if it ends in a 5 or a 0 it is divisible by 5. Those are the easy cheats. Trying to remember the others was hard for her, and to be honest, I didn't even know some of them, like the one that says that if you add the individual digits of a number together and that number is divisible by 9, then the number itself is also. To me, it's just simpler to do the problem outright, but I'm not the teacher.
I want to be able to help her remember these tricks, as well as make sure she does well in all her other subjects. She loves to be on the computer at night, and instead of being on Facebook, I may have her start doing some brain teasers for kids. I love playing sudoku free online, and last year, her teacher taught the kids how to play that, so I may encourage her to play online too.
She is super smart, even testing perfectly on the hardest advanced placement test they have at her school. I know it's just a matter of memorization to get her to remember the math tricks. If only there was a trick to remembering the tricks.
For instance, we all know that if a number is even, it is divisible by 2. Or if it ends in a 5 or a 0 it is divisible by 5. Those are the easy cheats. Trying to remember the others was hard for her, and to be honest, I didn't even know some of them, like the one that says that if you add the individual digits of a number together and that number is divisible by 9, then the number itself is also. To me, it's just simpler to do the problem outright, but I'm not the teacher.
I want to be able to help her remember these tricks, as well as make sure she does well in all her other subjects. She loves to be on the computer at night, and instead of being on Facebook, I may have her start doing some brain teasers for kids. I love playing sudoku free online, and last year, her teacher taught the kids how to play that, so I may encourage her to play online too.
She is super smart, even testing perfectly on the hardest advanced placement test they have at her school. I know it's just a matter of memorization to get her to remember the math tricks. If only there was a trick to remembering the tricks.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Home Schooling Is Not For Me
Every now and then, Brandi asks me to home school her. She loves school, but she is at that age where all the girls in her class can not get along, and she is always asked to take sides when her friends fight. It drives her crazy, because she has such a tender heart and doesn't want to have anyone mad at her. She has one friend in particular who is especially mean to her, yet she forgives her time and time again. I hate that she is going through this, but I guess it's all part of growing up.
I would love to home school her, and I know there are many resources out there available for parents who do. From Kindergarten Printables to high school classes that are available online for free, she wouldn't be lacking in information. The only thing lacking is the time it would take for me to actually home school her, and the patience I would need. I love her, don;t get me wrong, but I'm not sure I could handle having to be responsible for her education.
So, I simply tell her to be sweet, and when her friends fight, she needs to stay out of it. I tell her to be careful about what she says, because words are hard to take back, and I make sure she knows to treat other people the way she would want to be treated. What else can I do?
I would love to home school her, and I know there are many resources out there available for parents who do. From Kindergarten Printables to high school classes that are available online for free, she wouldn't be lacking in information. The only thing lacking is the time it would take for me to actually home school her, and the patience I would need. I love her, don;t get me wrong, but I'm not sure I could handle having to be responsible for her education.
So, I simply tell her to be sweet, and when her friends fight, she needs to stay out of it. I tell her to be careful about what she says, because words are hard to take back, and I make sure she knows to treat other people the way she would want to be treated. What else can I do?
Friday, April 20, 2012
Ryan And Biology
My kids are getting their interim reports today, and Ryan has been waiting for this day for weeks. He failed biology on his last report card, and he has been on restriction from his laptop and driving since then. I got a text from him before, because he was really excited about his grades. He is doing great in everything, except biology. Right now, he has 61 in the class. Yes, that is still failing, but he has brought that up from a 42, which I think shows at least some effort. I will probably take him off restriction, but I need to find a way to help him bring up that grade even more. I was thinking about looking into online tutors. I know I don't know enough about the subject to help him myself, but there has got to be someone out there who does and can help him. Plus, doing the work online might be more fun for him that re-reading the same things over and over again in a textbook.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Being The Best
A couple of weeks ago Kasi had a concert at school. Sitting in the auditorium, listening to the orchestra, chorus, and band, it finally occurred to me that I tortured my parents the same way when I was in school. It's funny, really. I enjoyed the chorus, and not just because that is where my child performed. They were really good. There are some very talented girls at Kasi's school. I also enjoyed the band. The orchestra? Not so much. I was actually cringing.
I think I was so critical because I was in orchestra. I played the viola for 8 years, and I sat first chair for 6 of those years. I was awesome. Thinking back on it now, though, I am sure my orchestra sounded just as bad as the one at this concert. We all probably could have benefited from a violin lesson or two.
I have always had this need to be the best, no matter what I was doing. Not to brag about myself, but I have never gotten a less than perfect review at any job I have ever worked. I am most definitely a people pleaser. I am a rule follower, but I think that has more to do with my fear of getting into trouble than anything else.
I know there are many more concerts in my future, and I hope I can be a little less critical of future performances.
I think I was so critical because I was in orchestra. I played the viola for 8 years, and I sat first chair for 6 of those years. I was awesome. Thinking back on it now, though, I am sure my orchestra sounded just as bad as the one at this concert. We all probably could have benefited from a violin lesson or two.
I have always had this need to be the best, no matter what I was doing. Not to brag about myself, but I have never gotten a less than perfect review at any job I have ever worked. I am most definitely a people pleaser. I am a rule follower, but I think that has more to do with my fear of getting into trouble than anything else.
I know there are many more concerts in my future, and I hope I can be a little less critical of future performances.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
They All Passed!
I got Ryan and Kasi's report cards in the mail today. Brandi brought her's home with her yesterday. They all passed. Brandi and Kasi got all A's and B's. Ryan passed, but by the skin of his teeth. It's funny. I just wrote a post about how well he is doing off his ADHD medication, and yesterday he asked me if he could start taking it again. He feels like he is starting to lose focus, and his end of semester test grades proved just that. He did well for the semester, but failed two of his end of course exams. Thankfully, those grades didn;t bring his averages down to failing, but it was pretty close. I'm not sure what I am going to do about his medications. He has two weeks off before school starts again, so we'll see.
It was so much easier when they were little, and school was actually fun for them. Nowadays, the internet is full of games that help little kids learn. You can find all kinds of online math games for kindergarten kids that make learning even more fun. My kids used to love to play Memory, so I did a search for online memory games, and found this site where kids can play a matching game to discover interesting facts. My little nephew is five, and he plays all kinds of games on the computer. It amazes me that kids that age, and even younger, are pros when it comes to the computer.
I wish I could find sites that offer games for kids Ryan's age. He's struggling in English right now. He said his end of course exam in that subject was reading a passage and then answering questions that required him to really comprehend what he had just read. Now, reading has never been his strong suit, and I am at a loss as to how to help him with that. The school has taken notice of his struggling and put him in a remedial class for next semester. He told me he is going to try and get out of it, but I told him not to. I may allow him to slack in other classes, like history, but English is important, and if he needs to be in a class where he will get extra help, than I think that is what is best for him.
If only he could see things the way I do.
It was so much easier when they were little, and school was actually fun for them. Nowadays, the internet is full of games that help little kids learn. You can find all kinds of online math games for kindergarten kids that make learning even more fun. My kids used to love to play Memory, so I did a search for online memory games, and found this site where kids can play a matching game to discover interesting facts. My little nephew is five, and he plays all kinds of games on the computer. It amazes me that kids that age, and even younger, are pros when it comes to the computer.
I wish I could find sites that offer games for kids Ryan's age. He's struggling in English right now. He said his end of course exam in that subject was reading a passage and then answering questions that required him to really comprehend what he had just read. Now, reading has never been his strong suit, and I am at a loss as to how to help him with that. The school has taken notice of his struggling and put him in a remedial class for next semester. He told me he is going to try and get out of it, but I told him not to. I may allow him to slack in other classes, like history, but English is important, and if he needs to be in a class where he will get extra help, than I think that is what is best for him.
If only he could see things the way I do.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Choices
I recently made the decision to take Ryan off of his ADHD medicine. Some of you may know that at the beginning of this school year, he had a severe reaction to his Ritalin. It caused his blood pressure to skyrocket, and after all kinds of tests it was decided that we would try him on Straterra. This is a non-stimulant ADHD medication, and to be honest, I didn't see a difference in Ryan while he was taking it. It was, however, keeping him from sleeping.
So, after weighing my options, I decided to let him go a couple of weeks without taking it to see how he would do in school. For the first time since he was diagnosed with ADHD he started getting A's and B's. He is able to focus and get his work done without any problems. He's been off the medication for a couple of months now, and I have no plans of starting him back on it.
I am not sure if it maturity or the fact that he loves his classes that is allowing him to get such good grades. The only subject he seems to be struggling with is social studies. Luckily, he has a few options for next year, and I think he is leaning towards some criminal justice classes. He has always said he wants to be a mechanic when he graduates, but I think he should be open to other things. For instance, I think if he enjoys his criminal justice classes he should look into a career as a california criminal lawyer. I know that requires a whole lot more schooling then becoming a mechanic does, but I believe in him enough to know that if he puts his mind to it, he could be whatever he wants to be. I'm not sure he would like the prosecuting side of being a lawyer, but he has a knack for defending himself, so maybe becoming a los angeles criminal defense lawyer would be more up his alley. He might enjoy the challenge of convincing a jury that a person is innocent.
As his mom, I will support him no matter what he decides to do with his life.
So, after weighing my options, I decided to let him go a couple of weeks without taking it to see how he would do in school. For the first time since he was diagnosed with ADHD he started getting A's and B's. He is able to focus and get his work done without any problems. He's been off the medication for a couple of months now, and I have no plans of starting him back on it.
I am not sure if it maturity or the fact that he loves his classes that is allowing him to get such good grades. The only subject he seems to be struggling with is social studies. Luckily, he has a few options for next year, and I think he is leaning towards some criminal justice classes. He has always said he wants to be a mechanic when he graduates, but I think he should be open to other things. For instance, I think if he enjoys his criminal justice classes he should look into a career as a california criminal lawyer. I know that requires a whole lot more schooling then becoming a mechanic does, but I believe in him enough to know that if he puts his mind to it, he could be whatever he wants to be. I'm not sure he would like the prosecuting side of being a lawyer, but he has a knack for defending himself, so maybe becoming a los angeles criminal defense lawyer would be more up his alley. He might enjoy the challenge of convincing a jury that a person is innocent.
As his mom, I will support him no matter what he decides to do with his life.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Going To School Online Might Just Work For Me
A new year is about to begin, and as many changes as I faced this year, I think next year holds just as many for me. I will be filling for divorce in February. It still amazes me that a year has almost gone by since my ex walked out the door. My son will be driving soon, which scares me in so many ways. My daughter will be fifteen, and probably ready to start dating. My baby will be 10 next week. Double digits. Crazy.
I know I have written in the past about going back to school, and how I just don't have the time right now. I think next year, I might put some effort into finding the time. I love the job I have now. I have a boss who is amazingly awesome, and my hours are great. But, there never seems to be enough money to do the things I want to do with, and for, the kids, so I'm thinking that going back to school might be a good idea.
I did attend college for a while after high school, but it was a community college and I never did get my degree. Back then, I wanted to open my own day care center, so I was taking a lot of early childhood development classes. As much as I would love to still do that, I am thinking about studying something that will lead to a better paying job. My mom is always saying how much money nurses can make, and I hear being an x ray technician pays pretty good, too.
I am not looking to actually go to school everyday. I would much rather take classes online. At least then I would be able to work it better into my schedule, without having to worry about missing a 5pm class because I had to work late. I know a lot of people have gotten their degrees from online schools, so it can't be that hard, right?
Right?
I know I have written in the past about going back to school, and how I just don't have the time right now. I think next year, I might put some effort into finding the time. I love the job I have now. I have a boss who is amazingly awesome, and my hours are great. But, there never seems to be enough money to do the things I want to do with, and for, the kids, so I'm thinking that going back to school might be a good idea.
I did attend college for a while after high school, but it was a community college and I never did get my degree. Back then, I wanted to open my own day care center, so I was taking a lot of early childhood development classes. As much as I would love to still do that, I am thinking about studying something that will lead to a better paying job. My mom is always saying how much money nurses can make, and I hear being an x ray technician pays pretty good, too.
I am not looking to actually go to school everyday. I would much rather take classes online. At least then I would be able to work it better into my schedule, without having to worry about missing a 5pm class because I had to work late. I know a lot of people have gotten their degrees from online schools, so it can't be that hard, right?
Right?
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Playing School
Brandi is a little smarty pants. I promise I am not just being biased because she is my kid. She really is super smart. She is in the advanced classes at school, and one of her favorite things to do is help her friends with their homework. There are days I come home from work and there are four or five other kids here with her working on their homework together.
She also loves to play school with her friends. A few weeks ago, she was playing school with her little cousin, and they had a ball. My mom has a dry erase board hanging in the playroom in her house, and Brandi was writing lessons on there for Carson to do. I wish I had some preschool worksheets for them to use. There have been times when Brandi has made up her own worksheets for her "students". I love her creativity. I love that she wants to help other kids learn, whether it's her friends or her cousin. To them, it may just be playing, but she really is helping to teach them things.
One day, she would make an excellent teacher. Unfortunate, right now she is convinced she will be some type of performer when she grows up. I could see her doing that, too. Those of you who know her know how big of a drama queen she can be. She already knows how to put on a show.
She also loves to play school with her friends. A few weeks ago, she was playing school with her little cousin, and they had a ball. My mom has a dry erase board hanging in the playroom in her house, and Brandi was writing lessons on there for Carson to do. I wish I had some preschool worksheets for them to use. There have been times when Brandi has made up her own worksheets for her "students". I love her creativity. I love that she wants to help other kids learn, whether it's her friends or her cousin. To them, it may just be playing, but she really is helping to teach them things.
One day, she would make an excellent teacher. Unfortunate, right now she is convinced she will be some type of performer when she grows up. I could see her doing that, too. Those of you who know her know how big of a drama queen she can be. She already knows how to put on a show.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
My Future
I think about this a lot these days. I want the best for me and my kids, and that means that I need to find a way to make sure we have enough money coming into the house. Right now, I work part time for minimum wage. With the child support I get, I am able to pay my bills every month, but there is never any money left over for fun stuff. My kids ask every week if we can go out to eat, and the best I can manage is going to McDonald's and getting a couple of value meals which we then split between us. They don't ever complain, but I want to be able to do more for them.
A couple of people have suggested that I go back to school. I am not opposed to the idea, I just don't have the money or time for that right now. I know a lot of places like WaldenU.edu have great online programs. I can't imagine finding the time to actually attend regular classes at a college nearby, so looking into Walden University's online degree programs is something I am seriously considering. I am not sure exactly what I want to study, but there was a time when teaching was something I seriously thought about. I would want to work with little kids, maybe kindergarten or first grade.
If you want to take classes online, you can learn about Walden by clicking the link.
A couple of people have suggested that I go back to school. I am not opposed to the idea, I just don't have the money or time for that right now. I know a lot of places like WaldenU.edu have great online programs. I can't imagine finding the time to actually attend regular classes at a college nearby, so looking into Walden University's online degree programs is something I am seriously considering. I am not sure exactly what I want to study, but there was a time when teaching was something I seriously thought about. I would want to work with little kids, maybe kindergarten or first grade.
If you want to take classes online, you can learn about Walden by clicking the link.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Excel
Brandi is in the gifted program at her school. It's called Excel. The district she was in last year before we moved had a similar program, and they met once a week for two and a half hours. At her new school, she goes every day for about an hour. She loves it! I know she is my kid and I might be a little partial to her, but she is super smart, and gets bored in her regular classes if she isn't being challenged. I went to an orientation when school started about the Excel program, and I was impressed with what the teachers have planned for the kids this year.
As usual, the teachers asked us, the parents, to help keep their classroom supply of teaching tools stocked. Now, I am all about making sure my kid has what she needs to do well in school, but I don't have the money to be shelling out for community supplies. Now, I know that sounds bad, because I know my kid does use the supplies that other parents send in. My point is, I think each parent should be responsible for what their own kids use.
That's how it was when I was in school, and it worked just fine for me.
As usual, the teachers asked us, the parents, to help keep their classroom supply of teaching tools stocked. Now, I am all about making sure my kid has what she needs to do well in school, but I don't have the money to be shelling out for community supplies. Now, I know that sounds bad, because I know my kid does use the supplies that other parents send in. My point is, I think each parent should be responsible for what their own kids use.
That's how it was when I was in school, and it worked just fine for me.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Name Labels
I spend a small fortune on school supplies every year. I always assumed that what I sent to school with them would be used by them. I found out last year that this is not the case with certain things. Take pencils, for instance. Last year, Brandi wanted Wizards Of Waverly Place pencils, and even though they were more expensive than the "regular" yellow No. 2 pencils, I bought them for her. She was so excited to bring them to school the first day.
Well, imagine how disappointed she was when she got there and discovered that she had to put her pencils in a bin with all the other kids pencils, and that they would be shared by everyone. Now, I was a little ticked off by this, too, simply because had I known they were doing this, I would have bought the generic, 24 for a dollar pencils.
This year, since she is in a higher grade and the kids change classes, she doesn't have to share her supplies. Her obsession this year is Victorious, and she went to school the first day with Victorious backpack, notebooks, folders, and all kinds of other things. We couldn't find Victorious pencils, but she did want mechanical ones this year, so her Daddy bought her s couple. I wanted to find a way to put her name on them, and came across kids labels that are made specifically for pencils. I designed hers in a bright pink, and hopefully I'll have enough extra cash soon to actually buy them. This is what they will look like:
I will ad our last name before completing the order, that way she is sure to get them back if she looses any. You can also buy labels to go one water bottles and clothing, as well as shoes and notebooks. I may order some different kinds to stick in her stocking for Christmas. Who knows what she'd end up labeling as her own!
Well, imagine how disappointed she was when she got there and discovered that she had to put her pencils in a bin with all the other kids pencils, and that they would be shared by everyone. Now, I was a little ticked off by this, too, simply because had I known they were doing this, I would have bought the generic, 24 for a dollar pencils.
This year, since she is in a higher grade and the kids change classes, she doesn't have to share her supplies. Her obsession this year is Victorious, and she went to school the first day with Victorious backpack, notebooks, folders, and all kinds of other things. We couldn't find Victorious pencils, but she did want mechanical ones this year, so her Daddy bought her s couple. I wanted to find a way to put her name on them, and came across kids labels that are made specifically for pencils. I designed hers in a bright pink, and hopefully I'll have enough extra cash soon to actually buy them. This is what they will look like:
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Trying Out ~ And Not Getting In
My daughter Brandi is in 4th grade this year. She started a new school, in a new district, so everything is new. Not just for her, but for me as well. In their old district, kids could join chorus if they wanted to. They didn't have to try out until they were in 6th grade. Brandi wanted to join chorus this year, and had to try out.
She didn't make it. What made me furious was that they didn't tell the kids at school if they made it. Each child had to bring home a letter last Friday. My poor child was so excited to open hers, only to find out that she wasn't good enough. Saying she was crushed would be an understatement.
In her old school she was in the gifted and talented program. They told me at registration this year that she would be put in this districts gifted and talented program as well. Last week, they had their first class, and she wasn't included.
Are you kidding me? She was crushed once again. I am not kidding when I say that she is super smart. She would do math manipulatives for fun if I had some. Yesterday, she brought home her pass scores, and she scored at least 100 points above her goal in every subject. How could she not be included in their program?
I ended up calling the school and asking, and was informed that they have to wait for her transcripts from her old school before placing her in the program. It's been three weeks. My question is, what is taking so long? We moved acroos town, not across the country.
I'm hoping by next week things will be straightened out. This girl needs some acceptance in her school right now.
She didn't make it. What made me furious was that they didn't tell the kids at school if they made it. Each child had to bring home a letter last Friday. My poor child was so excited to open hers, only to find out that she wasn't good enough. Saying she was crushed would be an understatement.
In her old school she was in the gifted and talented program. They told me at registration this year that she would be put in this districts gifted and talented program as well. Last week, they had their first class, and she wasn't included.
Are you kidding me? She was crushed once again. I am not kidding when I say that she is super smart. She would do math manipulatives for fun if I had some. Yesterday, she brought home her pass scores, and she scored at least 100 points above her goal in every subject. How could she not be included in their program?
I ended up calling the school and asking, and was informed that they have to wait for her transcripts from her old school before placing her in the program. It's been three weeks. My question is, what is taking so long? We moved acroos town, not across the country.
I'm hoping by next week things will be straightened out. This girl needs some acceptance in her school right now.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
FSU Football Parking And Tailgating
I have lived in the south for almost 20 years now. Wow, that's kind of crazy to say. Most days it's hard for me to believe that I will be 40 on my next birthday. I sure don't feel that old.
When I moved to South Carolina, I was surprised by how big a deal football is. I don't pay much attention to sports in general, but it seems like everyone is headed to high school football games on Friday nights around here. College football is even more popular than high school football. I have never been to a game myself (shocking, I know) but I hear tailgating is a big thing. I bet it's fun to hang out outside the stadium grilling out and spending time with friends. I'm pretty sure there is a whole lot of drinking going on, too.
If you are into football, I am sure you know all about the benefits of becoming a booster at the school you support. If that school happens to be Florida State University, you know all about their tailgating. They offer 14 different FSU football parking lots to tailgate in, and your parking spot depends on your membership level. I am assuming that this means the more you contribute to the school, the better your parking spot. I am also assuming that as long as you are with your friends and having a good time, location shouldn't matter. The company of good friends should trump a walk to the stadium.
My son never really got into playing sports, so I still have not experienced the thrill of Friday nights. Maybe someday, if I have grandsons, they will play sports. Until then, I will continue to spend my Friday nights at home. In my pajamas. Where it's warm. I hear those Friday nights can get downright chilly.
When I moved to South Carolina, I was surprised by how big a deal football is. I don't pay much attention to sports in general, but it seems like everyone is headed to high school football games on Friday nights around here. College football is even more popular than high school football. I have never been to a game myself (shocking, I know) but I hear tailgating is a big thing. I bet it's fun to hang out outside the stadium grilling out and spending time with friends. I'm pretty sure there is a whole lot of drinking going on, too.
If you are into football, I am sure you know all about the benefits of becoming a booster at the school you support. If that school happens to be Florida State University, you know all about their tailgating. They offer 14 different FSU football parking lots to tailgate in, and your parking spot depends on your membership level. I am assuming that this means the more you contribute to the school, the better your parking spot. I am also assuming that as long as you are with your friends and having a good time, location shouldn't matter. The company of good friends should trump a walk to the stadium.
My son never really got into playing sports, so I still have not experienced the thrill of Friday nights. Maybe someday, if I have grandsons, they will play sports. Until then, I will continue to spend my Friday nights at home. In my pajamas. Where it's warm. I hear those Friday nights can get downright chilly.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Brandi Loves Kids Reading Games
Brandi had her MAP testing the other day, and she scored a 224. Her goal was a 217, so she did better than expected. She was so worried that with everything going on around here she wouldn't be able to concentrate on the test. Her teacher recommended that she practice online by playing some kids reading games. All of my kids love the computer, so it was easy to get her to sit down for an hour or so and do it. In fact, she even asked the day after the test if she could go back to the site and play some more. I love that she loves to learn. I just hope she continues to be like this until she graduates.
*this post is sponsored by kabongo. All opinions are my own.
*this post is sponsored by kabongo. All opinions are my own.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Spelling
In the past couple of months, both of my girls entered their school spelling bees. Brandi didn't make it past her class spelling bee because of her nerves. She knew how to spell the word, but when she saw all the other kids looking at her, she blanked. Kasi made it on to the school spelling bee, and was eliminated after a few rounds. I am so proud of both of them. They do so well in school without really having to try.
My son, however, struggles for every good grade. The thought of entering a spelling bee has probably never even entered his mind. Trust me when I say he is a horrible speller. For instance, I started a grocery list, and the kids have been adding to it, and last night I noticed that someone had put on there "etable husband, aka choco". He meant to write "edible" (he's quite the comedian...he thinks chocolate will take the place of Bob...silly boy...it has to have peanut butter in it to do that! lol).
I found a site online called bigIQkids where he can practice his spelling, and I know he loves doing anything on the computer. This site is cool because I can either select from an existing list of words or I can make my own list for him. He can study the words and then test himself. They have words for kids of every age, too.
I know I have to do something to get him to spell better.
My son, however, struggles for every good grade. The thought of entering a spelling bee has probably never even entered his mind. Trust me when I say he is a horrible speller. For instance, I started a grocery list, and the kids have been adding to it, and last night I noticed that someone had put on there "etable husband, aka choco". He meant to write "edible" (he's quite the comedian...he thinks chocolate will take the place of Bob...silly boy...it has to have peanut butter in it to do that! lol).
I found a site online called bigIQkids where he can practice his spelling, and I know he loves doing anything on the computer. This site is cool because I can either select from an existing list of words or I can make my own list for him. He can study the words and then test himself. They have words for kids of every age, too.
I know I have to do something to get him to spell better.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Snow Angel
Please, mother nature, give me a break. Send some serious sunshine my way to melt all this ice and snow. Preferably by Friday morning so the buses will run and take these little monsters I call my kids back to school where they belong.
Thank you very much.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Ryan's Struggling
I never struggled with my grades in school. There were a couple of subjects that I did okay in, but for the most part, my averages were pretty good. In fact, if I remember correctly, I placed about 350 in a class of 1200, which isn't bad at all.
My son is having a really hard time this year. I just saw his grades for the first semester, and he failed history by one point. This kills me! Some of you know how he was struggling with math, and he was able to bring that grade up to passing, which I am proud of. I think his issue is that when he is focusing on bringing up one grade, he lets the others slip. I need to help him find a way to do well in every class, and I don't know how to do that. He already goes to tutoring before and after school. I told Junior we might need to look into having a tutor come to the house a couple of days a week to work with him, but I have no idea how to even find one. Maybe I'll email one, or all, of his teachers.
I sat and talked with Ryan last night, and he was pretty upset, which tells me that he isn't just slacking off. Next year, he wants to go to the technical school, and start working towards his mechanics degree. I am all for this, but I am afraid he won't be accepted into the program because of his grades. I know he will be disappointed if this happens. He wants so badly to have a mechanical engineering career and going to the technical school is the first step in making that happen. Junior says they will let him in regardless of his grades, but I'm not too sure. Besides, if he is struggling now, I think he needs more time in the classroom, not under the hood of a car. But, if this is what he wants to do with his life, who am I to say he can't take advantage of this opportunity? I'm so confused. It's just so hard for me to understand why he isn't doing well, since I have never been in that situation.
Any advice for me?
My son is having a really hard time this year. I just saw his grades for the first semester, and he failed history by one point. This kills me! Some of you know how he was struggling with math, and he was able to bring that grade up to passing, which I am proud of. I think his issue is that when he is focusing on bringing up one grade, he lets the others slip. I need to help him find a way to do well in every class, and I don't know how to do that. He already goes to tutoring before and after school. I told Junior we might need to look into having a tutor come to the house a couple of days a week to work with him, but I have no idea how to even find one. Maybe I'll email one, or all, of his teachers.
I sat and talked with Ryan last night, and he was pretty upset, which tells me that he isn't just slacking off. Next year, he wants to go to the technical school, and start working towards his mechanics degree. I am all for this, but I am afraid he won't be accepted into the program because of his grades. I know he will be disappointed if this happens. He wants so badly to have a mechanical engineering career and going to the technical school is the first step in making that happen. Junior says they will let him in regardless of his grades, but I'm not too sure. Besides, if he is struggling now, I think he needs more time in the classroom, not under the hood of a car. But, if this is what he wants to do with his life, who am I to say he can't take advantage of this opportunity? I'm so confused. It's just so hard for me to understand why he isn't doing well, since I have never been in that situation.
Any advice for me?
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