Blackboard Discussion Forum -- M

Blackboard Discussion Forum -- Make Equity a Priority

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 30
Date: 06-30-2005 16:24
Author: Jones, Elaine <ejones@mpsb.us>
Subject Reading 2


I love the quote by Angelou. She tells it like it is. Teachers must have and interest in and know their students. They must also be comfortable enough to teach all races and cultures. Acceptace of others is the key. We other students see how the teacher relates to people of differing cultures and races, they will react in a similiar way. Elaine Jones

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 17
Date: 06-30-2005 16:35
Author: Mitchell, Ethel <ethel.mitchell@cpsb.org>
Subject RE: make Equity A Priority


Equity ensures that all teachers have the tools and outlook that enable them to see the strengths of all students and develop stratiegies to help students to succed.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 17
Date: 06-30-2005 16:35
Author: Allen, Ashley <aallen@mpsb.us>
Subject Equity as a Priority


It is very important for an educator to understand different cultures and be willing to accept and serve as a positive role model for the students. When students from other cultures are in an unfamiliar environment, it can be very scary so the teacher must build the confidence of those students and establish a relationship among all of the students.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 7
Date: 06-30-2005 16:44
Author: Jones, Elaine <ejones@mpsb.us>
Subject Re: RE: make Equity A Priority


Student success is the ultimate goal. Elaine Jones

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 21
Date: 06-30-2005 16:45
Author: Allen, Ashley <aallen@mpsb.us>
Subject Re: Reading 2


Acceptance is very important. It has such an enormous effect. ashley

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 15
Date: 06-30-2005 16:56
Author: Thompson, Leslie <adreasa@bellsouth.net>
Subject We are all equal


I could not agree more with this article. It is the attitude of "I am above you" that causes disruptions in a strong school community. I respect those who continue education for the benefit of the children, but those who do it for prestigue don't phase me at all. We are all in this boat together so it doesn't matter how many titles a teacher has, if were sinking as a school so are you. Everyone who works hard for the benefit of the students must be considered equal and in my book is considered equal (from the principle to the custodian)

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 16
Date: 07-05-2005 22:39
Author: Kelly, Rochelle <fifty2fine@yahoo.com>
Subject Reading 2 Making equity a priority


Students have diversed learning styles which are greatly influenced by their race, social class and cultures. Even within these catagories, one can still find diversions which can play a major part in influencing ones learning styles and attitudes. As trained educators, able to address and appreciate these differences; create an atmosphere of respect; understand what defines one's behavior and expectations; forge a trusting friendship; and reach each individual "person" will be a great achievement and advancement in the field of education. Equity should be a priorty for all educators that mold the mind of our future generations. We not only deal with fragile mines, but the world's future. We should all seek the "person" behind the face.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 22
Date: 07-05-2005 22:41
Author: Kelly, Rochelle <fifty2fine@yahoo.com>
Subject Re: Reading 2


Especially to children .

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 21
Date: 07-06-2005 16:04
Author: Leonard, Pauline <pleonard@woodard.latech.edu>
Subject Re: Reading 2


I like Maya Angelou's quote, too, Elaine. It's a reminder that teachers can and do make a difference!

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 11
Date: 07-06-2005 16:08
Author: Leonard, Pauline <pleonard@woodard.latech.edu>
Subject Re: We are all equal


Good points, Leslie. Equity is an important characteristic of any professional learning community.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 8
Date: 07-06-2005 16:12
Author: Leonard, Pauline <pleonard@woodard.latech.edu>
Subject Re: Reading 2 Making equity a priority


I agree with you, Rochelle. Many factors influence learning style. And yes, even within a particular race, culture, gender, social class, etc. there will be variation. When preparing lessons using EPAS standards and the comprehensive curriculum, teachers need to make sure that the activities and strategies are inclusive -- that is, they are designed with the diverse needs of students in mind. Good points!

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 12
Date: 07-07-2005 16:24
Author: Thompson, Leslie <adreasa@bellsouth.net>
Subject Re: Equity as a Priority


Sometimes it is the teacher who is in an unfamiliar environment and needs to understand and be willing to adjust and or become acquatinted with the students way of life.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 13
Date: 07-07-2005 16:30
Author: Thompson, Leslie <adreasa@bellsouth.net>
Subject Re: Reading 2 Making equity a priority


I agree that if everyone could find the person behind the face and foster a TRUE relationship of trust and authority we could make greater strides with the students.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 8
Date: 07-07-2005 20:32
Author: Leonard, Pauline <pleonard@woodard.latech.edu>
Subject Re: Reading 2 Making equity a priority


Well stated, Leslie. We need to make connections with our students. Using EPAS school assessment data will help teachers better understand the specific needs of their students. Addressing the needs is one way to help make better connections with students.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 10
Date: 07-08-2005 15:33
Author: Masling, Laura <lmasling@avoyellespsb.com>
Subject Reading 2


Our students come from a large area, and the different communities do not get along with each other. The teachers come from these communities and others, with three of us from very different areas. I have noticed that the kids do tend to gravitate towards the teachers from their particular areas and of their particular ethnic backgrounds. There has also been a long- standing mistrust of non-Cajuns, not an animosity, just a mistrust. Being one of the three non-Cajuns, I just joke about it with the kids and allow them to also treat it light heartedly, never in a disrespectful way. I am Protestant, with most of them being Catholic. I allow them to ask me honest questions if they are curious, and I will answer them honestly, occasionally having to defer the questions to recess time if not about the lesson. We've had some really good discussions and seem to have built a rapport over time. I think they appreciate being answered honestly and not just "blown off," hopefully making them more receptive in the classroom. Respect is a two-way street.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 10
Date: 07-08-2005 15:38
Author: Masling, Laura <lmasling@avoyellespsb.com>
Subject Re: Equity as a Priority


Having moved from north of the Red River to south of the Red River, I am definitely in a different environment. I think both my students and I have learned more about each other's cultures.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 10
Date: 07-08-2005 15:38
Author: Baker, Carolyn E. <cbaker@caddo.k12.la.us>
Subject Reading


I sincerely agree with this synopsis of what can and should take place in all learning environments. Educators, most importantly, should have the ability and the necessary tools to help them value diversity. When students enter any educator's class community, they all should feel special. They have enough to focus on without the additional concern of not being treated fairly because of their culture, race, or religion. It is now more vital then ever that we, as educators, begin to dialogue and help each other deal with input and assistance in reaching all students.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 6
Date: 07-10-2005 23:22
Author: Norcross, Aimee Anne <aimee.norcross@bossierschools.org>
Subject equity


I think the author of this article made a very effective and important point in talking about the importance of knowing about and capitalizing on the cultural differences of the children in our classrooms. I try to really learn my students so that I can understand the things they like. I see an increase in motivation of my students when I involve them with the things that they are comfortable with and the things they like to do. As teachers, we must learn how to reach out to the cultural and ethnic differences of the students that we teach so that we can have a great impact on their lives and learning.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 8
Date: 07-10-2005 23:24
Author: Norcross, Aimee Anne <aimee.norcross@bossierschools.org>
Subject Re: Reading 2


Nicely said. It is so very important to accept others unconditionally and equitably. You are so right about teachers leading by example. Our students can learn so much about how they should treat others by seeing how we treat others. I think teachers should always keep that in mind.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 13
Date: 07-10-2005 23:31
Author: Petry, Sherrone DeVall <educator1971@hotmail.com>
Subject Make Equity A Priority


The article states that equity is staff development that improves the learning of all students, prepares educators to understand and appreciate all students, create safe, orderly, and supportive learning environments, and hold high expectations for their academic achievement. As teachers I believe that each of us expresses equity and we make it a priority as we endeavor to teach each child. Furthermore, as teachers we all possess the knowledge, skills, and dispositions that is called for in the equity standards. The quote by Maya Angelou sums it up when it says that as a teacher we want to reach that person, influence that person, encourage that person, enrich and call out that person who is behind the face, the color, the language, the tradition, and the culture. Therefore, as teachers we should make equity a priority.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 4
Date: 07-11-2005 11:28
Author: Aulds, Kenneth <Auldsk@bellsouth.net>
Subject Reading 2


Teachers need the understanding of different cultures and ethnicities in the classroom for the upmost in education. Different social and cultural can be tools rather than obstructions. I have found that understanding and using the students' cultural in teaching literature can help in difficult areas. For example, in teaching the Harlem Renaissance, the students are more compelled to read and analyze poetry. This helps them connect to literature when they are not used to it. Maya Angelou is correct that regardless of race or status, a teacher can reach a students and lead them academically into a positive and bright future.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 6
Date: 07-11-2005 11:32
Author: Aulds, Kenneth <Auldsk@bellsouth.net>
Subject Re: Make Equity A Priority


I agree completely. Equity must be a priority in the classroom, or learning will not be successful. Students are intelligent enough to know or recognize if they are treated differently, or their teachers don't have high expectations for them. When a child feels that the teachers expects the best from them, then they will more than likely perform the best for that teacher.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 8
Date: 07-11-2005 15:03
Author: Stevenson, Martha <martha.stevenson@bossierschools.org>
Subject "Make Provisions not Excuses"


The makeup of Rusheon Middle School is much like the information in the article. Rusheon is a diverse setting of students and predominately white instructors. The educators at our school take pride in developing a relationship with "ALL" students and parents which builds valued relationships of respect to education. Staff development plays an integral part in teachers setting high expectations for students, however, the administration in our school seems to be the key component that facilitates our teachers to challenge our diverse students. The principal of Rusheon Middle took "Education to the Neighborhoods" via school bus with school supplies so that the faculty and staff could actually see where the students came to us daily with different problems or concerns. As a result, the teachers are somewhat better equipped with strategies, in conjunction with frequent morning and afternoon parent conferences to meet the challenged students we serve at Rusheon Middle School daily.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 6
Date: 07-11-2005 17:07
Author: Ellis, Cathy <cccellis@hotmail.com>
Subject Make equity a priority


I think it was an excellent article that teachers need to read from time to time to remind them what they are suppose to be doing in the classroom. Teachers often forget that all students are not equal and that each student is different in many ways. Our jobs as teachers is to reach each student no matter what race, ability, socioeconomic background or even behavior . Each student has the right to success.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 3
Date: 07-11-2005 17:11
Author: Ellis, Cathy <cccellis@hotmail.com>
Subject Re: We are all equal


You go girl!!! As soon as teachers realize that the faculty has one goal; educating students; then a school can wor together for that goal.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 5
Date: 07-11-2005 17:31
Author: Stevenson, Martha <martha.stevenson@bossierschools.org>
Subject Dorothy Winzer


message sent three times

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 6
Date: 07-11-2005 17:41
Author: Stevenson, Martha <martha.stevenson@bossierschools.org>
Subject Dorothy Winzer/Making Equity a Priority July 11, 2005


The author brings to my mind no matter what cultural background or social standing, with a true understanding professional preparation and the ability to look beyond what our eyes see we can instill a desire to live and prosper with the skills that God has given us and our students. Teachers have to be willing to spend extra time to acquire the skills to reach the at-risk as well as the elite. Parents, too, are going to have to step up and become a part of their children's educational background. What impressed me most about the article teachers set goals to get to know the students and how some behavior attitudes and living conditions can definitely affect how students react. At Rusheon Middle through our staff development and hard-working principal we continue to make equity a priority with our diverse teaching staff, multi-cultural student body, parents, and community a great part of our new curriculum.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 18
Date: 07-11-2005 18:03
Author: Bell, Sheila <sbell712542001@yahoo.com>
Subject Reading 2 Make Equity a Priority


Everyday in classrooms across the world, young faces look to their teacher for clear instruction and patient guidance. We, as educators, should see no color, culture background, or socioeconomic status when it comes to educating our students. It's very important for educators to have knowledge and understanding of each individual student. At the same time, administrators must see the value in staff development. Thus, encouraging continuous professional growth of teachers. Educators, as a result of exposure, should accept and adjust to student differences. Teachers should create a pleasant environment for all students in their classroom. Equity should be a number one priority for all educators regardless of the student's background. We must allow some individuality in our students. Then, their true potential will surface.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 9
Date: 07-11-2005 21:50
Author: Lemoine, Kathy Mayeaux <klemoine@avoyellespsb.com>
Subject Re: Reading 2 Make Equity a Priority


I agree. All students should be treated equally and fairly by all teachers. Studying students cultures, backgrounds, and seeking the parents help and support goes a long way in teaching children today. I agreed with the article when it stated that they believed students were most likely to learn from teachers they respected, and that they share a common bond with. We as teachers are there to teach these students and prepare them to succeed in the world, but would we not also learn from these same students more about the world if we were to study their backgrounds especially if it is different from ours. I find that students are more active in learning in my room because of all the extra activities that I sponsor at my school. I think that they kids know that I care about them.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 5
Date: 07-12-2005 11:52
Author: Jones, Douglas <djones.vhs@wpsb.org>
Subject Equity


EPAS data is an excellent way to determine the needs of students (academic strengths/weaknesses) and address those issues as appropriate.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 7
Date: 07-12-2005 13:10
Author: Weston, Doretha <doretha.weston@cpsb.org>
Subject Reading 2: Equity


The bottom line in this reading is that regardless of what we see, we should see human beings left in our care to teach and maybe to improve lives. I have always tried, as a teacher and counselor, to be fair and honest with my students. Once I had earned thier trust, I was able to establish a relationship with them. When the relationship was established, honest and open communication was available. Children know when their teachers or any significant adult is truly interested and concerned.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 2
Date: 07-18-2005 08:48
Author: Leonard, Pauline <pleonard@woodard.latech.edu>
Subject Re: We are all equal


That's right, Cathy. While teachers and administrations may not have different views about how to achieve the vision of educated students, having the common goal of student success is a must.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 2
Date: 07-18-2005 08:54
Author: Leonard, Pauline <pleonard@woodard.latech.edu>
Subject Laura's trust building


Sounds like you are very sensitive to the cultural differences that exist between you and your students, Laura. That's important. Showing respect for your students' culture is important for building the trust that is necessary for teachers who want to have the greatest impact on student achievement. We would probably all agree that developing positive student-teacher relationships is an integral part of effective teaching.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 5
Date: 07-18-2005 09:06
Author: Leonard, Pauline <pleonard@woodard.latech.edu>
Subject Carolyn's response


Well put, Carolyn. Additionally, as the author, Stephanie Hirsh, suggests, there is much teachers can learn from each other's culture that can help them better understand their students.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 3
Date: 07-18-2005 09:22
Author: Leonard, Pauline <pleonard@woodard.latech.edu>
Subject Re: "Make Provisions not Excuses"


Thanks for sharing your school perspective. It sounds like your principal and teacher colleagues make the goals of equity and multicultural education a high priority. Also, you identify a very real challenge that exists in your school, and one that I try to help my undergraduate students in the Diverse Learners class understand. The majority of teachers today are white, middle class females. Many of these teachers are teaching in schools that are are comprised of students who are culturally different, particularly in terms of race and SES. These teachers must make every effort to understand their students. Doing the types of things that your school is involved is will go a long way towards ensuring that all students gain equal access to educational success. That, coupled with teachers' knowledge of what their students' academic needs are -- which is where EPAS contributes -- should serve to help "level the playing field" for students.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 4
Date: 07-18-2005 12:43
Author: Baker, Carolyn E. <cbaker@caddo.k12.la.us>
Subject What's Wrong W/American High School


If all kids (or even more than half) would be college ready, whether or not, they wanted to go to college -- then and only then could I, personally, say that teachers were highly qualified. That should be the ultimate goal of all educators. If all teachers believed in making their students highly qualified as well as themselves then and only then we will begin to figure out what's really wrong with American High School!

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 13
Date: 07-19-2005 12:48
Author: Cruz, Ronald Allan <rhum_shaker@yahoo.com>
Subject Re: Equity as a Priority


I too have been from a different culture. I have learned alot in teaching American kids. That is one of the reasons why I moved to America,; to be acquainted to other cultures and to grow. Understanding other cultures is a key in further understanding mine.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 6
Date: 07-19-2005 15:08
Author: Turner, Dianne <dyeyi88@yahoo.com>
Subject Making equity a priority


Please excuse my the lateness of my work. But as they say better late than never. I could only that there were more principals like Williamson. I feel that her presence in the school was the key agent in the Taft transformation. She knew she had to get her teachers abd staff unvolved if the students were to improve. Not only did she transform a dismal physical plant, but with community help it blossomed. I whole heartly agree that discipline has to be addresses. Without discipline, learning is doomed for failure. Teamwork disipline and a principal with the right attitude most certanily spells success.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 4
Date: 07-19-2005 15:34
Author: Turner, Dianne <dyeyi88@yahoo.com>
Subject Late equity


Maya Angelou not only makes beautiful poetry but her narratitive is poetry as well. All students must have the chance to have the best possible education. Thus, all teachers and all classrooms should be prepared to reach all students despite deveristy.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 9
Date: 07-19-2005 15:39
Author: Turner, Dianne <dyeyi88@yahoo.com>
Subject Re: Reading 2 Make Equity a Priority


If only all teachers would.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 8
Date: 07-19-2005 15:40
Author: Turner, Dianne <dyeyi88@yahoo.com>
Subject Re: Equity as a Priority


Welcome to America.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 6
Date: 07-19-2005 15:43
Author: Turner, Dianne <dyeyi88@yahoo.com>
Subject Re: Make Equity A Priority


Not just equal sometimes and for some students, but equility first and last for all of them.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 2
Date: 07-20-2005 14:02
Author: Sanders, Rachel Quinn <rachel.sanders@cpsb.org>
Subject Equity


Teaching in a school of disadvantage youth, I was really able to relate to the article "Make Equity a Priority." Too often our school receives an educator who really has no idea of the poverty issues, traditional values, and/or cultural differences existing among our studens. Unfortunately, the emotional strain, physical challenges, and low test scores keep these educators from remaining with us for an extended enough time to get to know and experience the rewards of teaching our students.Maya Angelou's quote is one I plan on printing and framing for my classroom to remind me (and others) of the possibilities in each one of the "faces" I can reach as I teach.

Forum: Reading 2 Forum -- Make equity a priority (Deadline: Monday, July 11)	Times Read: 2
Date: 07-20-2005 14:04
Author: Sanders, Rachel Quinn <rachel.sanders@cpsb.org>
Subject Re: Reading 2: Equity