Show Us What Homework's For

Cushman, Kathleen. "Educational Leadership:Giving Students Meaningful Work:Show Us What Homework's For." Membership, Policy, and Professional Development for Educators ASCD. Sept. 2010. Web. 15 Nov. 2010. <http://www.ascd.org/publications/educational-leadership/sept10/vol68/num01/Show-Us-What-Homework's-For.aspx>.

There are four big areas concerning homework addressed in this article: purpose for homework, follow up to assignments, not a grade, and better use of homework time. Students speak out on their thoughts regarding homework. In the article they had the students describe their nonacademic practice activities. The students are motivated to improve their skills and like doing nonacademic skill practice. They also feel homework should be focused on improving their skills. Students felt that they are all receiving the same homework assignments with no clear purpose. 

As an administrator I think it is important to make sure teachers are setting realistic homework expectations. It should be a valuable tool for the student and teacher. Help the students realize the importance of their homework. We have to make the homework relevant to the students needs. In the article a student gave an example of a project her teacher gave her for homework and it gave the students some freedom and flexibility in the assignment. When students feel they have a choice and input in the assignment they are more than likely going to be more motivated to complete the work. Students need feedback regarding their assignments so they know what they need to improve on in the future. It is important to get the students involved and motivated about their homework so they can have the same ambition they have while practicing their nonacademic skills.

Mass. District Gets Tough on Cyberbullying

Hendricks, Lynne. "Education Week's Digital Directions: Mass. District Gets Tough on Cyberbullying." Education Week American Education News Site of Record. 9 Nov. 2010. Web. 15 Nov. 2010. <http://www.edweek.org/dd/articles/2010/11/09/mct_mabullying.html>.

The state of Massachusetts passed a new anti-bullying state law and now schools are creating a plan to handle different types of bullying during and after school hours. They have a zero tolerance policy that once you break the rule certain interventions will take place. They are especially taking cyberbullying very serious. The severity of the bullying that occurs will determine the levels of intervention needed. The school will be holding meetings with the parents, possibly expert speakers and forums where parents can ask questions and seek advice. They are trying to use the incidents that have already happened to inform and help stop future bullying.

Bullying unfortunately is an area in schools that seems to be growing and advancing with technology hence the term cyberbullying. As an administrator I feel it is important to create a plan to protect students from any type of bullying. I think the principals in this article are taking the right steps to address this problem.

 It is important for principals to first make the staff aware of the different types of bullying so they knowledgeable and can keep an eye out for these signs. Also as a principal it is important to educate parents and students about the types of bullying and give them advice on how to handle these issues. It is so sad the things that are happening to children as a result of bullying. If only these children were better equipped with the tools to handle these incidents may have led to better outcomes for all involved. I like the idea of bring in an expert and having an open forum for the parents. It is important that parents are educated in order for them to better help their children deal with bullying! We have to remember times are changing and parents may not always be knowledgeable regarding advanced technology. It is so important that students know that bullying in whatever shape, form or type is not acceptable and there will be consequences for their actions. It is our job as educators and administrators to do our part in keeping children safe so they can learn!