IIRC Data

I found the IIRC activities to be very worthwhile learning experiences. I remember a couple of years ago when IIRC came about. To see how it has changed and evolved is quite remarkable. The capabilities it has now compared to then is amazing. It is surprising how many principals and school districts don't use the website or even know it exists. What a great tool for comparing how your school measures up against other schools in the state. Since my job revolves around attendance, I really enjoy looking at the attendance data for each school and district. I will continue to use IIRC and will spread the word to the principals in my school district.
Thank you, Dr. Closen!

Saturday November 8th

My aha moment for Saturday was when Dr. Closen showed us the Christmas card he was given from a former parent with the photocopy of the enormous check he donated to the school district. Dr. Closen reminded us about treating everyone with respect because you never know what might happen. I've had that philosophy for a long time as well. I try my best to treat everyone with respect. Kids, parents, staff because you never know what could happen. You may get a generous donation or your life could be in their hands and if they remember you as someone who always treated them with respect then hopefully they will return the favor. I will be honest and say that it is hard at times to show everyone respect when the are cussing you up and down, but I always try to end the conservations with, "Thank you maam, and you have a good day."

post-dated comment for 10/28

I think that hiring minority teachers is a very important issue. My school has a large minority population, and it is sometimes difficult for teachers to grasp the special cultural differences that impact minority students. Having a fresh and insiteful perspective on the unique concerns of the students can only enhance the educational climate.

Tim O'Neill

Great Class

One of the great things I enjoyed about class is the information we discuss that you could not learn by simply reading a book about human resource management. I thoroughly enjoyed sharing real-life situations, and discussing what we learn from them. It's great having instructors that have immense experience, and enjoy sharing their stories. I feel that I am quite efficient at deciphering pertinent information on individual IIRC reports, and understand what data administrators need to look at when evaluating efficiency and establishing goals. I am also excited about the fact I am nearing the end of this program, and looking forward to interviewing for administrative positions. It is also nice working with such dedicated professionals as i did in this class.

Edl 522

This class was very informative. I wanted to thank everyone in the class for all of the great discussions. I took several items of information away from the presentations that have helped me in my current job. I hope to continue to stay in contact with all of you. Good Luck with all of your future endeavours.

IIrd data

I felt that analyzing the data from the schools was very informative. Though I have done this before in other classes, I felt the repetition helped me retain the process of collecting school data. I think reviewing my own schools data will be one of the most important tasks I perform as a principal. The information my school data gives me will tell our school what direction we will need to go.

Weekend Two Presentation

Two teachers from Pekin had a presentation about schools that did not take a traditional approach too school. They discussed a shorter summer and three breaks of three weeks each throughout the year. This sounds like a great idea for a students' retainment of matreial. I do feel it would be difficult to sell this in certain areas because of tradition. I feel this would be most difficult in rural areas.