August 24, 2009.
A 3rd grader & a Kindergartener. ☺
Showing posts with label School.. Show all posts
Showing posts with label School.. Show all posts
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Bentley's reading.
Bentley is all about books. Books, books, books, books, books. He reads so much, so often, I can't keep up with his books anymore!
Bentley was tested for reading on May 4, 2009.
His Individual Reading Profile (results):
Level - 40
Accuracy - 99%
Fluency - 158 words per minute
What does that mean? It means my child, who is currently wrapping up 2nd grade, is reading on a 4th grade reading level! At the end of the third grade (which he will be in starting next school year - i.e. August 2009), the expectations are 120 words per minute/level 38. He's certainly already exceeded that!
Woohoo! GO Bentley! I am so stinkin' proud of him I could squeeze his ears off! ☺ ♥
*There is a possibility that he is actually reading at 5th grade entry level, if the expectation for 4th grade is 150 words per minute at the end of the school year. My form only states up to 3rd grade. Beginning in first grade, the expectations increase each year by 30 increments, but I'm not positive it continues in the 30 increments past 3rd grade.
At the end of the school year students should be reading:
1st grade - 60 wpm
2nd grade - 90 wpm
3rd grade - 120 wpm
If the pattern continues:
4th grade - would be 150 wpm
Which means, if I am correct, he is quite possibly reading at a 5th grade level. Beginning of the school year, not the end of the year.
Oh who cares. WOOHOO! ☺
Bentley was tested for reading on May 4, 2009.
His Individual Reading Profile (results):
Level - 40
Accuracy - 99%
Fluency - 158 words per minute
What does that mean? It means my child, who is currently wrapping up 2nd grade, is reading on a 4th grade reading level! At the end of the third grade (which he will be in starting next school year - i.e. August 2009), the expectations are 120 words per minute/level 38. He's certainly already exceeded that!
Woohoo! GO Bentley! I am so stinkin' proud of him I could squeeze his ears off! ☺ ♥
*There is a possibility that he is actually reading at 5th grade entry level, if the expectation for 4th grade is 150 words per minute at the end of the school year. My form only states up to 3rd grade. Beginning in first grade, the expectations increase each year by 30 increments, but I'm not positive it continues in the 30 increments past 3rd grade.
At the end of the school year students should be reading:
1st grade - 60 wpm
2nd grade - 90 wpm
3rd grade - 120 wpm
If the pattern continues:
4th grade - would be 150 wpm
Which means, if I am correct, he is quite possibly reading at a 5th grade level. Beginning of the school year, not the end of the year.
Oh who cares. WOOHOO! ☺
Friday, February 27, 2009
Kindergarten.
When Bentley was enrolled in K, he went 1/2 day. Which is completely appropriate for a 5 year old. Obviously he learned what needed to be learned 'cause guess what? He passed & graduated on to 1st grade. Then on to 2nd. Half day K hindered him none. ☺
This year it was on the bond election to enforce full day Kindergarten in our area. It passed. Haven't heard a word about it until today, when a letter was sent home w/ the children.
It's a little confusing & presented itself as quite contradictory, but from what I understand, the elementary school for our area will be full day K starting in 2009. Evidently, our elementary has the space. However, some schools don't have the space just yet, so they will continue to be 1/2 day K. Excuse me, but, what?
So let's just say we have some relatives who live in our town, but we all attend different schools. You know, 'cause there's like bookoos (of schools) here. I have a Kindergartener & they have a Kindergartener. My 5 year old child will go to school from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. My relatives' K'er will attend school from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (I believe that's the correct schedule for the a.m. class - p.m. class is 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.). Now does that seem fair? Seriously, does that even make a lick of sense? Here's the question - those who attend 1/2 day, will they be able to graduate to 1st grade? Like Bentley did? Yes? They will learn all they need to learn by attending a half day class? Great. Then why is full day K even necessary?
Spite that answer, if one school in our district supports 1/2 day K, then all schools support 1/2 day K. If one school supports full day K, then all schools support full day K. Duh. This is the dumbest district I have ever seen. But that ain't no secret.
Thank you Lord for confirming our choice to move. Let's pray it can be done before next school year begins.
*****************************************
Have I ever mentioned Bentley is a straight A student? Why yes, he does take after me. Heehee. ;o) On his progress report today, he came home with a 100 (one hundred) in Science. Who gets a 100 in Science? And he came home with a 99 in Social Studies. And then the others were right in line with that.
This kid rocks! ☺
This year it was on the bond election to enforce full day Kindergarten in our area. It passed. Haven't heard a word about it until today, when a letter was sent home w/ the children.
It's a little confusing & presented itself as quite contradictory, but from what I understand, the elementary school for our area will be full day K starting in 2009. Evidently, our elementary has the space. However, some schools don't have the space just yet, so they will continue to be 1/2 day K. Excuse me, but, what?
So let's just say we have some relatives who live in our town, but we all attend different schools. You know, 'cause there's like bookoos (of schools) here. I have a Kindergartener & they have a Kindergartener. My 5 year old child will go to school from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. My relatives' K'er will attend school from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (I believe that's the correct schedule for the a.m. class - p.m. class is 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.). Now does that seem fair? Seriously, does that even make a lick of sense? Here's the question - those who attend 1/2 day, will they be able to graduate to 1st grade? Like Bentley did? Yes? They will learn all they need to learn by attending a half day class? Great. Then why is full day K even necessary?
Spite that answer, if one school in our district supports 1/2 day K, then all schools support 1/2 day K. If one school supports full day K, then all schools support full day K. Duh. This is the dumbest district I have ever seen. But that ain't no secret.
Thank you Lord for confirming our choice to move. Let's pray it can be done before next school year begins.
*****************************************
Have I ever mentioned Bentley is a straight A student? Why yes, he does take after me. Heehee. ;o) On his progress report today, he came home with a 100 (one hundred) in Science. Who gets a 100 in Science? And he came home with a 99 in Social Studies. And then the others were right in line with that.
This kid rocks! ☺
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Deja Vu.
I was in the shower. The one & only time I shower without taking the phone in the bathroom.
I heard the answering machine answer twice. That doesn't happen. Two times in a row, during the day. Just doesn't happen here.
Immediately I thought of boy1 or my dad.
I hopped out & replayed messages.
One from school nurse, one from hubby.
Bentley tripped on his shoelaces & fell. Banged his cheek, hip & knee.
He's totally fine.
I called the nurse, she phoned me back.
Problem lies in the conversation.
I am fully aware we had an issue 4 months ago. Big whoop. I have moved on.
Evidently, she holds a little anger or frustration. Or something. Her problem. Not mine.
But I have a huge problem with her snotty tone of voice in which she spoke to me (& according to hubby, him too).
She tried to be nice. She wasn't successful.
So at the end of the conversation, when neither of us were speaking & I knew she was listening, I said "thank you for calling". In the most sincere voice I could. Because I appreciate her phoning me/us.
Her reply? "Good-bye".
Click.
I thought this mess was over. I guess it's not.
I heard the answering machine answer twice. That doesn't happen. Two times in a row, during the day. Just doesn't happen here.
Immediately I thought of boy1 or my dad.
I hopped out & replayed messages.
One from school nurse, one from hubby.
Bentley tripped on his shoelaces & fell. Banged his cheek, hip & knee.
He's totally fine.
I called the nurse, she phoned me back.
Problem lies in the conversation.
I am fully aware we had an issue 4 months ago. Big whoop. I have moved on.
Evidently, she holds a little anger or frustration. Or something. Her problem. Not mine.
But I have a huge problem with her snotty tone of voice in which she spoke to me (& according to hubby, him too).
She tried to be nice. She wasn't successful.
So at the end of the conversation, when neither of us were speaking & I knew she was listening, I said "thank you for calling". In the most sincere voice I could. Because I appreciate her phoning me/us.
Her reply? "Good-bye".
Click.
I thought this mess was over. I guess it's not.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
From Miss S.
We are soooooooooooo blessed with Bentley's teacher this year. She is wonderful! Such a relief after our experiences the last 2 years. I know she is exactly what Bentley needs.
Below is part of an email I received from her & I found it quite interesting:
"He is very smart! His vocabulary is HUGE!! Has he ever been tested for Gifted and Talented? I would want to observe him a little longer before I submitted his name, but so far, I am seeing a lot of gifted qualities in him!!
Thank you!!
Thank you!!
Miss S.
I tend to agree with her comment & I think because he's so darn smart, it creates a lot of our challenges with him. But I wouldn't want him any other way. He's perfect. Ü
Monday, August 25, 2008
2nd grade.
I didn't want to go to bed last night. I didn't want today to arrive. But both were inevitable. And he went to his first day of 2nd grade. He was so excited. Not to mention, so cute.
We all walked him in. He headed down his corridor without hesitation. I was grumpy. My summer with him just wasn't long enough.
I snapped my photos & kissed him goodbye. My heart sunk but I did not cry. Fortunately, I had scheduled Mercedes' Endocrin appointment for today. So we did that & went for her bloodwork. Those two tasks kept my mind busy.At 3:00 p.m. he hopped in my car with the largest, most adorable smile across his face. He had a blast. He loved it. He loves his teacher. He rubbed my arm. I cried while he told me all about it.
He knows how to work me. We had this conversation also.
Bentley: I didn't get my work completed because I was missing you.
Me: Because you were missing me? You mean because you were talking too much.
Bentley: No, I was thinking about you.
Me: You mean you were talking too much.
Bentley: Um, yeah.
And then I took him to Sonic to retrieve his much needed orange slush.
There are no words to describe how much I love him. Words do no justice for the love I feel for this child. He is more than I could ever deserve.
Will sending him off ever get any easier? Because my heart says no.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Regarding school supplies.
And Christine's comment. There is no way I could just read her comment & move on. LOL Ü Part of her comment read:
"you should see our public schools list...crazy long including 6 rolls of paper towels, 4 boxes of zip lock bags, 4 boxes of tissues etc...I thought that was nuts!"
Christine, is this list for just one child? Are you kidding me? 6 rolls of paper towels, 4 boxes of baggies & tissue? Girl, that made me crack up.
I hope you did some investigating. Because it sounds to me as if teachers in your ISD are coming up with a sneaky & unique way to stock their personal kitchen cupboards. ;o)
Also, have you all heard that a school in Houston (TX) is now allowing teachers to bring handguns to school if they have completed a training course? Very frightening stuff.
"you should see our public schools list...crazy long including 6 rolls of paper towels, 4 boxes of zip lock bags, 4 boxes of tissues etc...I thought that was nuts!"
Christine, is this list for just one child? Are you kidding me? 6 rolls of paper towels, 4 boxes of baggies & tissue? Girl, that made me crack up.
I hope you did some investigating. Because it sounds to me as if teachers in your ISD are coming up with a sneaky & unique way to stock their personal kitchen cupboards. ;o)
Also, have you all heard that a school in Houston (TX) is now allowing teachers to bring handguns to school if they have completed a training course? Very frightening stuff.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Pulling up.
She's missing an earring? She is? I certainly can't tell. ;o)
She mastered it! Pulling up @ 7 1/2 months. Though I think this is a tad early - the reason it makes me soooooooooo happy that she is reaching all these milestones is because it tells me that her thyroid is working! PTL! :)
The photo above is a quickie shot. I was trying to get ready for Meet the Teacher & was running behind schedule. Audi was entertaining Mercedes & excitedly ran into me saying "She did it! She's standing!" I ran to get my camera & switched that puppy on automatic. Good heavens. All of the photos I snapped (really fast) were completely blurry. I figured my camera was on it's last leg. One can hope. :) Later on it dawned on me that camera was focusing just fine - I didn't have my contacts in yet. Baha! Ü
I'm surprised she pulled up in her pack-n-play. She is never in that thing - only to take naps. That's it. I do not use it for a babysitter. Ever. Even at dinner time, she sits with us, as a family, & has her dinner & crackers/puffs/juice. She does have a lot of floor time, but only because she loves floor time so much. Miss Independent. :) That said, when she is on the floor, I am with her. I do not leave her be while I 'fuel my own flame'. (ahem) Although I love photography & am drooling at learning more - it will have to wait. My children come first & aren't left to fend for themselves while I boost my ego. (ahem). Heehee...inside joke. Ü
Now. I have one other thing to say. And you just might want to sit down as it is HUGE & unexpected. Especially coming from me.
Regarding Meet the Teacher night...(I should have reread the school supply list I typed out on here - I didn't purchase enough writing tablets or school glue. Ha!)
I LOVEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE Bentley's new teacher! Woohoo! :) :) :)
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
School supplies.
Is it like this everywhere? Does everyone go thru this?
Below is Bentley's school supply list. No problemo. Let's begin.
12 - Number 2 wood pencils Oriole/American brand.
1 - Pocket only folder. Assorted colors.
1 - 4 pack EXPO 2 low odor chisel tip dry erase markers.
1 - 48 ct. Crayola crayons.
1 - Plastic pocket-only folder - assorted color.
1 - Washable Crayola thick classic markers - 8 ct.
1 - Long plastic pencil box with lid - size 13x5.25x2.5 (will hold a ruler).
4 - 8.5x11" - 1/2" rule, red baseline w/dotted midline writing tablet (D'Nealian).
1 - .77 oz. Elmer's glue stick.
1 - 7" 8 ct. Crayola colored pencils.
12 - Reclosable snack bags.
1 - Sharp 5" scissor.
2 - 4 oz. Elmer's school glue.
1 - 120 ct. Kleenex tissue.
2 - Magic Rub eraser.
1 - Box reclosable quart bags - 25 ct.
I typed the list exactly how it is on my printed sheet. I added the periods 'cause I'm picky like that. ;o)
Now then. There were a few simple things to purchase - the pencils, the 4 oz. school glue, the pocket folders, crayons, markers & dry erase markers. Every thing else was a hassle & took going to another store. At both stores though I had to do some thinking & scouting.
Oh, I forgot to mention we are instructed to "be brand specific" on every single item. Bossy little people.
The "plastic" pocket-only folder - it states one. Yet is says "assorted color". Does this mean more than one in assorted colors, or, get any color but just purchase one? I bought 4 just in case. Assorted colors.
Long pencil box - Target had some that were just an tee tiny bit shy of holding a ruler. We passed.
.77 oz. Elmer's glue stick. Simple. Except they don't make .77 oz. If so, I didn't find it. Do you buy 2 smaller ones or 1 larger one? I opted for the larger.
8 count colored pencils. Simple. Except they don't make an 8 count. It's 12.
Sharp 5" scissor. Ok. Is the brand Sharp, or do they mean 'sharp not blunt'? I couldn't find a Sharp brand. I have Fiskars.
120 ct. Kleenex. Simple. Except Kleenex brand (which I'm instructed to purchase) doesn't come in 120 count. I opted for more.
Reclosable quart bags - 25 ct. Simple. Except they don't come in 25 count.
I did have to go to Staples to find the "Magic Rub" erasers (& other items). What? The pink ones don't work? Also, I could not find the "8.5x11" - 1/2" rule, red baseline w/ dotted midline writing tablet". Sheesh! I found all but that particular one. Bents ended up with a 3rd grade writing tablet & dimensions are close, but not exact. I didn't know what else to do...? And why don't any #2 pencils work? Why must they be Oriole/American brand?
Are you just supposed to get the closest thing you can find to the required list? Why do they list certain 'counts' when brands don't make those certain counts? Such as bags & Kleenex. Why can't I buy Target brand tissue? Target brand had the count they are requiring. But I'm told to buy Kleenex brand.
Tomorrow night is Meet the Teacher. I am really trying to stay positive for Bentley. 'Cause he's still so excited. And this year I will be marking every single school supply with his name. See how they like that, darnit. Yes, the public school grump has resurfaced! That's me! Ü
This year's supplies cost: $56.08 - including an oh so cool backpack & lunchbox. :)
Can't wait to do this for 4 children. :o)
*Sarah - your comment made me giggle. I hadn't thought about it but you're right - it is a blessing to not have to buy school supplies! :o)
Rebecca - the supply list I have, I printed off of our ISD's web page.
Below is Bentley's school supply list. No problemo. Let's begin.
12 - Number 2 wood pencils Oriole/American brand.
1 - Pocket only folder. Assorted colors.
1 - 4 pack EXPO 2 low odor chisel tip dry erase markers.
1 - 48 ct. Crayola crayons.
1 - Plastic pocket-only folder - assorted color.
1 - Washable Crayola thick classic markers - 8 ct.
1 - Long plastic pencil box with lid - size 13x5.25x2.5 (will hold a ruler).
4 - 8.5x11" - 1/2" rule, red baseline w/dotted midline writing tablet (D'Nealian).
1 - .77 oz. Elmer's glue stick.
1 - 7" 8 ct. Crayola colored pencils.
12 - Reclosable snack bags.
1 - Sharp 5" scissor.
2 - 4 oz. Elmer's school glue.
1 - 120 ct. Kleenex tissue.
2 - Magic Rub eraser.
1 - Box reclosable quart bags - 25 ct.
I typed the list exactly how it is on my printed sheet. I added the periods 'cause I'm picky like that. ;o)
Now then. There were a few simple things to purchase - the pencils, the 4 oz. school glue, the pocket folders, crayons, markers & dry erase markers. Every thing else was a hassle & took going to another store. At both stores though I had to do some thinking & scouting.
Oh, I forgot to mention we are instructed to "be brand specific" on every single item. Bossy little people.
The "plastic" pocket-only folder - it states one. Yet is says "assorted color". Does this mean more than one in assorted colors, or, get any color but just purchase one? I bought 4 just in case. Assorted colors.
Long pencil box - Target had some that were just an tee tiny bit shy of holding a ruler. We passed.
.77 oz. Elmer's glue stick. Simple. Except they don't make .77 oz. If so, I didn't find it. Do you buy 2 smaller ones or 1 larger one? I opted for the larger.
8 count colored pencils. Simple. Except they don't make an 8 count. It's 12.
Sharp 5" scissor. Ok. Is the brand Sharp, or do they mean 'sharp not blunt'? I couldn't find a Sharp brand. I have Fiskars.
120 ct. Kleenex. Simple. Except Kleenex brand (which I'm instructed to purchase) doesn't come in 120 count. I opted for more.
Reclosable quart bags - 25 ct. Simple. Except they don't come in 25 count.
I did have to go to Staples to find the "Magic Rub" erasers (& other items). What? The pink ones don't work? Also, I could not find the "8.5x11" - 1/2" rule, red baseline w/ dotted midline writing tablet". Sheesh! I found all but that particular one. Bents ended up with a 3rd grade writing tablet & dimensions are close, but not exact. I didn't know what else to do...? And why don't any #2 pencils work? Why must they be Oriole/American brand?
Are you just supposed to get the closest thing you can find to the required list? Why do they list certain 'counts' when brands don't make those certain counts? Such as bags & Kleenex. Why can't I buy Target brand tissue? Target brand had the count they are requiring. But I'm told to buy Kleenex brand.
Tomorrow night is Meet the Teacher. I am really trying to stay positive for Bentley. 'Cause he's still so excited. And this year I will be marking every single school supply with his name. See how they like that, darnit. Yes, the public school grump has resurfaced! That's me! Ü
This year's supplies cost: $56.08 - including an oh so cool backpack & lunchbox. :)
Can't wait to do this for 4 children. :o)
*Sarah - your comment made me giggle. I hadn't thought about it but you're right - it is a blessing to not have to buy school supplies! :o)
Rebecca - the supply list I have, I printed off of our ISD's web page.
Kimberly - interesting thought - "so all children feel equal". I would 'buy' that but here (in Texas - our district anyway)...in Kindergarten...after spending 6 hours w/ Bentley & letting him pick out all his own, personal stuff for his first exciting year, they made everyone toss everything into one big pile. He never got to use his stuff. We were sad. :( Last year - very same thing happened. This year, not sure. But I'm putting his name on his supplies in anyway! :)
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
He's caught in the middle - part 2
The phone conversation(s) Mitch had yesterday with our district:
Husband: I would like to speak w/ someone regarding a survey that was sent out at my son's elementary school.
Them: I don't know anything about a survey, it must be the planning committee. I'll transfer you.
Husband: I would like to speak w/ someone regarding a survey that was sent out at my son's elementary school.
Them: I don't know anything about a survey, it must be the safety & security committee. I'll transfer you.
Husband: I would like to speak w/ someone regarding a survey that was sent out at my son's elementary school.
Them: I don't know anything about a survey, it must be the communications committee. I'll transfer you.
LOLOL!
See what we're dealing with? Long story short - someone finally called him back & this survey was issued by our CITY. I think the proper thing to do would have been to attach a note explaining the survey & stating the form does not need to be filled out - it's completely voluntary but if parents have the time, they would appreciate the form back. With our district though, that's just too much to ask for. And Bentley was instructed by his teacher to tell the parents the form is mandatory. The survey is about SIDEWALKS for crying out loud!
Did I ever tell you about the 5,000 fundraisers Bentley gets sent home with? Ugh. So usually we do participate (if it's something worth while). The last one, was a sale for flowerbulbs. Cute! Loved them. We sold quite a bit. The order came in. The order was short the amount of bulbs we had sold. No note (shocker, I know). I call the school. "Oh yeah, they ran out of those particular bulbs." Hey, thanks for letting me know. I then said "ok, I'd just like to get our money back please so I can refund the people who bought them." Response? "Oh sorry, we don't give refunds." Yep, yep, yep. Huh? Hubby & I took our own personal money & paid the people back who had bought the bulbs. Can you believe that? The money came out of our pocket! I had to pay those people back! No refunds when it's their fault? Now that's absurd! Never again will we participate in a fundraiser.
Referring back to yesterday's post, keep in mind that Bentley gets sent home with so much paperwork, I am totally unable to go thru it all. It is unreal. I just found the form that stated his class photo was taken 2 weeks ago! The amount of paperwork sent home is ridiculous. I don't know how the parents that work full time do it! I must say...they don't. I've been told & I 'see' it when certain things are due. I'm not the only one fed up w/ my life & precious time revolving around a school district. In actuality, it is our district that is putting the children in the middle. Every other day it's CiCi's Pizza night! After that it's Chick-Fil-A night! And McDonald's night! It is not even remotely feasible people can do/attend all this junk! And it cost money! A lot of families are on a very tight budget & this is so unfair to the children.
95% of the paperwork of course, I complete. Of course. I don't mind one bit, depending on what it is. Completing what is sent home is teaching my son responsibility. That said, my children will be brought up to understand that some things need to be completed, some things do not. They will be taught when 'enough is enough' & unnecessary things that begin to take away from family time will not be completed. My children will be taught that sometimes you just have to draw a line & move on. People take advantage. Repetitive, unimportant, non-school related items are proof to Bentley that this is the time to draw that line. Welcome to life! :)
Regarding yesterday's deleted comment - it was a tad rude & a tad not rude. Does that make sense? More importantly it was insensitive, unappreciated & unvalidated. That was the reason(s) the comment was deleted. I do not need to be attacked when I am trying to make an extremely important (& difficult) decision while taking into account my child's very important feelings. That was my first ever comment I felt the need to delete. Boo!
7 1/2 weeks of school left! But whose counting? :)
Now let's move on! :)
Husband: I would like to speak w/ someone regarding a survey that was sent out at my son's elementary school.
Them: I don't know anything about a survey, it must be the planning committee. I'll transfer you.
Husband: I would like to speak w/ someone regarding a survey that was sent out at my son's elementary school.
Them: I don't know anything about a survey, it must be the safety & security committee. I'll transfer you.
Husband: I would like to speak w/ someone regarding a survey that was sent out at my son's elementary school.
Them: I don't know anything about a survey, it must be the communications committee. I'll transfer you.
LOLOL!
See what we're dealing with? Long story short - someone finally called him back & this survey was issued by our CITY. I think the proper thing to do would have been to attach a note explaining the survey & stating the form does not need to be filled out - it's completely voluntary but if parents have the time, they would appreciate the form back. With our district though, that's just too much to ask for. And Bentley was instructed by his teacher to tell the parents the form is mandatory. The survey is about SIDEWALKS for crying out loud!
Did I ever tell you about the 5,000 fundraisers Bentley gets sent home with? Ugh. So usually we do participate (if it's something worth while). The last one, was a sale for flowerbulbs. Cute! Loved them. We sold quite a bit. The order came in. The order was short the amount of bulbs we had sold. No note (shocker, I know). I call the school. "Oh yeah, they ran out of those particular bulbs." Hey, thanks for letting me know. I then said "ok, I'd just like to get our money back please so I can refund the people who bought them." Response? "Oh sorry, we don't give refunds." Yep, yep, yep. Huh? Hubby & I took our own personal money & paid the people back who had bought the bulbs. Can you believe that? The money came out of our pocket! I had to pay those people back! No refunds when it's their fault? Now that's absurd! Never again will we participate in a fundraiser.
Referring back to yesterday's post, keep in mind that Bentley gets sent home with so much paperwork, I am totally unable to go thru it all. It is unreal. I just found the form that stated his class photo was taken 2 weeks ago! The amount of paperwork sent home is ridiculous. I don't know how the parents that work full time do it! I must say...they don't. I've been told & I 'see' it when certain things are due. I'm not the only one fed up w/ my life & precious time revolving around a school district. In actuality, it is our district that is putting the children in the middle. Every other day it's CiCi's Pizza night! After that it's Chick-Fil-A night! And McDonald's night! It is not even remotely feasible people can do/attend all this junk! And it cost money! A lot of families are on a very tight budget & this is so unfair to the children.
95% of the paperwork of course, I complete. Of course. I don't mind one bit, depending on what it is. Completing what is sent home is teaching my son responsibility. That said, my children will be brought up to understand that some things need to be completed, some things do not. They will be taught when 'enough is enough' & unnecessary things that begin to take away from family time will not be completed. My children will be taught that sometimes you just have to draw a line & move on. People take advantage. Repetitive, unimportant, non-school related items are proof to Bentley that this is the time to draw that line. Welcome to life! :)
Regarding yesterday's deleted comment - it was a tad rude & a tad not rude. Does that make sense? More importantly it was insensitive, unappreciated & unvalidated. That was the reason(s) the comment was deleted. I do not need to be attacked when I am trying to make an extremely important (& difficult) decision while taking into account my child's very important feelings. That was my first ever comment I felt the need to delete. Boo!
7 1/2 weeks of school left! But whose counting? :)
Now let's move on! :)
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
He's caught in the middle.
I suggest you don't read if you don't want to 'hear' me complain about public school. I think I have just about had enough but I'll continue to blog about it for my own future reference.
Yesterday, Bentley comes home & says "you have homework". Now excuse me, I'm 40 years old, done with my schooling - no, I don't have homework. Never again will I have homework. Obviously, Bent's teacher told her class that their parents have some homework tonight.
What he is referring to is a long survey about children walking or riding a bike to school. Big whoop. I don't care, & I won't do it. It doesn't apply to us & it never will (we live too far from the school). The survey will go directly in the trash. I didn't tell Bentley that - I just told him I'd look at it later. He reminded me all evening "you have homework". Sometimes I think he is brainwashed by a flippin' school district.
This a.m. when I got up, Bentley had sifted thru my 'work' pile (which is a huge no-no) & pulled out my 'homework'. He put it smack dab on top so I would see it first. He is adamant I complete that dadgum survey. I now realize my cutey son is stuck in the middle of a dictating school district & a mean mommy who won't comply. I feel bad for him.
Last week Bentley was sent home with his...may I just say...'phenomenal' report card. Can you tell I'm so proud of him? :) Like a good servant, I signed where I needed to sign & returned it. I have no problem signing to prove I did indeed see it. The next day, he brought it home again. "You forgot to sign the envelope". What? I signed the darn report card where I was supposed to! Screw the envelope! (Yes I'm getting a little testy :) I don't have time for stupid, repetitive crap. I then told Bentley I would not sign in. Husband rolled his eyes at me, as sometimes I think he thinks I should jump thru every dadgum hoop I am instructed to jump (or he wants me to for Bent's sake). I signed the report card, why do I need to sign it again/an envelope? Of course Bentley's face dropped to disappointment & that gets me every time. I grabbed the $%^!&@ envelope, grabbed my pen & scribbled jibberish (which is quite obvious as I have pretty impeccable handwriting - so believe me, they got the point) on the line I was to sign my name on. We returned it again. I guess my scribbles sufficed as he has not brought it home again.
The church we are considering joining, from what I'm told, has an amazing homeschool support group. This church is extremely organized & professional so that news doesn't surprise me one bit. Homeschool is so popular here where we live & I think that will work for our benefit.
8 weeks of school left. I have never been so excited to see something END! I swear to you I am counting the days.
**Husband just called to say he read the survey this a.m. He agreed to trash it but he also said he is just livid (um...yay! It's about time!). Evidently, the last question on the survey is "what grade level did you complete?" He says he's calling the district. This nonsense survey might just work on my behalf after all. :)
It's now 10:05 a.m. here & everyone is just now waking up. What gives? Time to feed some tiny tykes & then off to run errands.
Oh, & in case you've already forgotten - 8 WEEKS OF SCHOOL LEFT! Yeehaw! :)
**You see, the delete button rocks. I have a certain someone who constantly deletes my comments, & my comments are no where near insulting. I have the same ability. :)
What you, Ms. 'Anonymous', isn't aware of is that I used to have another blog. It clearly stated the majority (but not all) of the issues we've had with OUR district, but I don't have those posts copied over to this new blog. Not that I have to explain, but what the heck. We've had severe issues with OUR district from day 1 in Kindergarten. Issues that began with my child hurt, crying & bleeding on the playground & no one cared & sent him to the nurse...all the way to my kindergartener having 7 pages of homework & the list goes on. And on. :)
If you, Ms. 'Anonymous', were to read all of my posts, you would certainly know that I have stated I do believe it is OUR district that has the issue(s), not public school in general. And it's very rare that I am discussing teachers. Although I have, but those issues have been addressed & rectified. Typically I speak of OUR Public School District.
I have a sister-in-law who teaches in public school (another district) & she does the most fabulous job ever. She is highly respected as a teacher & a person. She has helped me tremendously regarding homeschool & OUR district's issues. I happen to be one who respects her. I also have another friend who is a public school teacher (again, not in OUR district) & she too is amazing. Unfortunately, the teachers don't make the rules. They abide by them. And many teachers (although not all) are assets to a district. And, as a matter of fact, I dearly love Bentley's teacher. She's a doll & she is very good to my son. :)
Pulling my son out of school is one of the most important decisions I could make. I will take whatever time is necessary to be sure I make the best possible decision. It's not about "threatening" to take him out of school - it's about taking the time, praying, researching, asking questions, gathering information & the like to be sure removing him from public school (in OUR district) will benefit him & our family. Decisions such as these NEVER should be hastey, but long & thought out. Period.
Rude, hateful, insensitive, unappreciated, unvalidated & insulting comments won't be allowed on my blog. It's quite a simple fix really - stop reading my blog if it upsets you. Information that is disturbing to me (regarding any topic) is documented on my blog for my future reference. I'm not your 'typical joe' & I don't have a passive personality. I absolutely will not apologize for that. I am my own person, I have my own thoughts. I am a unique person, created by God, to be my own individual. I am 100% pure & authentic. :) Therefore, if something on my blog is bothersome to you, please don't read it & certainly don't leave your tacky comments.
In other news, hubby did indeed phone the school district. I had no prompting in that what-so-ever. :) The run around he received is quite funny. I'll post that later tonight. Just another point that proves OUR district is screwed up. :)
Yesterday, Bentley comes home & says "you have homework". Now excuse me, I'm 40 years old, done with my schooling - no, I don't have homework. Never again will I have homework. Obviously, Bent's teacher told her class that their parents have some homework tonight.
What he is referring to is a long survey about children walking or riding a bike to school. Big whoop. I don't care, & I won't do it. It doesn't apply to us & it never will (we live too far from the school). The survey will go directly in the trash. I didn't tell Bentley that - I just told him I'd look at it later. He reminded me all evening "you have homework". Sometimes I think he is brainwashed by a flippin' school district.
This a.m. when I got up, Bentley had sifted thru my 'work' pile (which is a huge no-no) & pulled out my 'homework'. He put it smack dab on top so I would see it first. He is adamant I complete that dadgum survey. I now realize my cutey son is stuck in the middle of a dictating school district & a mean mommy who won't comply. I feel bad for him.
Last week Bentley was sent home with his...may I just say...'phenomenal' report card. Can you tell I'm so proud of him? :) Like a good servant, I signed where I needed to sign & returned it. I have no problem signing to prove I did indeed see it. The next day, he brought it home again. "You forgot to sign the envelope". What? I signed the darn report card where I was supposed to! Screw the envelope! (Yes I'm getting a little testy :) I don't have time for stupid, repetitive crap. I then told Bentley I would not sign in. Husband rolled his eyes at me, as sometimes I think he thinks I should jump thru every dadgum hoop I am instructed to jump (or he wants me to for Bent's sake). I signed the report card, why do I need to sign it again/an envelope? Of course Bentley's face dropped to disappointment & that gets me every time. I grabbed the $%^!&@ envelope, grabbed my pen & scribbled jibberish (which is quite obvious as I have pretty impeccable handwriting - so believe me, they got the point) on the line I was to sign my name on. We returned it again. I guess my scribbles sufficed as he has not brought it home again.
The church we are considering joining, from what I'm told, has an amazing homeschool support group. This church is extremely organized & professional so that news doesn't surprise me one bit. Homeschool is so popular here where we live & I think that will work for our benefit.
8 weeks of school left. I have never been so excited to see something END! I swear to you I am counting the days.
**Husband just called to say he read the survey this a.m. He agreed to trash it but he also said he is just livid (um...yay! It's about time!). Evidently, the last question on the survey is "what grade level did you complete?" He says he's calling the district. This nonsense survey might just work on my behalf after all. :)
It's now 10:05 a.m. here & everyone is just now waking up. What gives? Time to feed some tiny tykes & then off to run errands.
Oh, & in case you've already forgotten - 8 WEEKS OF SCHOOL LEFT! Yeehaw! :)
**You see, the delete button rocks. I have a certain someone who constantly deletes my comments, & my comments are no where near insulting. I have the same ability. :)
What you, Ms. 'Anonymous', isn't aware of is that I used to have another blog. It clearly stated the majority (but not all) of the issues we've had with OUR district, but I don't have those posts copied over to this new blog. Not that I have to explain, but what the heck. We've had severe issues with OUR district from day 1 in Kindergarten. Issues that began with my child hurt, crying & bleeding on the playground & no one cared & sent him to the nurse...all the way to my kindergartener having 7 pages of homework & the list goes on. And on. :)
If you, Ms. 'Anonymous', were to read all of my posts, you would certainly know that I have stated I do believe it is OUR district that has the issue(s), not public school in general. And it's very rare that I am discussing teachers. Although I have, but those issues have been addressed & rectified. Typically I speak of OUR Public School District.
I have a sister-in-law who teaches in public school (another district) & she does the most fabulous job ever. She is highly respected as a teacher & a person. She has helped me tremendously regarding homeschool & OUR district's issues. I happen to be one who respects her. I also have another friend who is a public school teacher (again, not in OUR district) & she too is amazing. Unfortunately, the teachers don't make the rules. They abide by them. And many teachers (although not all) are assets to a district. And, as a matter of fact, I dearly love Bentley's teacher. She's a doll & she is very good to my son. :)
Pulling my son out of school is one of the most important decisions I could make. I will take whatever time is necessary to be sure I make the best possible decision. It's not about "threatening" to take him out of school - it's about taking the time, praying, researching, asking questions, gathering information & the like to be sure removing him from public school (in OUR district) will benefit him & our family. Decisions such as these NEVER should be hastey, but long & thought out. Period.
Rude, hateful, insensitive, unappreciated, unvalidated & insulting comments won't be allowed on my blog. It's quite a simple fix really - stop reading my blog if it upsets you. Information that is disturbing to me (regarding any topic) is documented on my blog for my future reference. I'm not your 'typical joe' & I don't have a passive personality. I absolutely will not apologize for that. I am my own person, I have my own thoughts. I am a unique person, created by God, to be my own individual. I am 100% pure & authentic. :) Therefore, if something on my blog is bothersome to you, please don't read it & certainly don't leave your tacky comments.
In other news, hubby did indeed phone the school district. I had no prompting in that what-so-ever. :) The run around he received is quite funny. I'll post that later tonight. Just another point that proves OUR district is screwed up. :)
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Another step closer part 2.
This is an interesting email I received Friday. "L" did not send this to me to begin a huge debate - she sent it to share her thoughts & opionions regarding homeschooling. I appreciate it. Of course no two people think alike & I have no problem with that. As a matter of fact, I am one of the (very) few who appreciate how different minds think. I've said before...God did not make duplicates. We all have our very own fingerprints. And minds. :) I thought I'd see if any of you have any additional thoughts or comments. Homeschooling is probably one of the most important decisions a parent will make (my opinion anyway), as we all know the importance of a good education. Sharing & learning is good.
Currently, hubby & I have a little dilemma regarding homeschooling. It isn't that he isn't pro-homeschooling - his main concern is that I have OCD & I am a determined perfectionist. I certainly won't argue with that. :) He thinks I may expect too much. I disagree. I do/will expect what I know my child is capable of, I don't/won't expect above his limits. Still discussing.
Below is the email from "L". Everything in the copper color is from her.
...because I have considered this myself and have two girls in 2nd and 5th grade in public schools myself, I felt compelled to answer each point that you mentioned myself. I agree with some...and some, I just don't see. Take it for what it is worth...I sure don't mean to impose my opinions on you but I have been there and know of which I speak :)
1. Positive academic, social, emotional and spiritual benefits. I both agree and disagree on this point. I do think that children grow socially and emotionally better around children in the same socio economic background as your children. Children do need to be around other children daily in order to be well rounded and more prepared for the real world.
2. A better education for your child. Now that is debatable. In my case....probably not so much :)
3. The schools have become so dangerous that homeschooling is now a lot safer than sending your child into the war zone that public schools have become. Well, in our area of the suburbs, this is not a concern as of yet.
4. Less exposure to drugs and alcohol. Today 31% of high school students "binge drink" at least once a month. There are also a lot of students who abuse inhalants, drugs and medicine. If you keep your child in a bubble, they will be protected from all of these things. However, they will rebel most times when they leave the home. This was true of myself and many of my peers in private school all of our lives. When we left for college, we went buck wild! My husband was in public school and never went wild as he was always exposed to these things and felt it was just the way things were. He was exposed gradually and never actually went wild. (Thankfully, I never got into trouble and eventually returned to the Lord. But I definitely was led astray for awhile.)
5. No emotional bullying such as name-calling, mocking and humiliation. This is what any child that appears "different" is forced to endure. Research shows that those children who undergo this emotional bullying are unable to learn well. True, and I worry a lot about this with my 5th grade daughter. However, I think the benefits of her being in school and exposed the the outside world outweigh any of the risks of this. She will face it sooner or later anyway.
6. Children can be Ritalin-free. Schools are increasingly labeling typical male behavior as ADD/ADHD. This is also true for thin children who like to move around more. I truly can't speak on this issue so I will just keep my mouth shut.
7. Sexual pressure is removed. Research shows that 81% of children between the ages of 12 and 14 believe that they are pressured into having sex too early. School culture and sex-ed classes tend to promote that sex is fine because everyone is doing it. Thus, children are dressing and acting sexy at much younger ages. This is true whether the children attend public or private schools. Again, my kids are too young to speak on this issue. But I do believe that kids need to be around other kids their own age and hopefully, our kids are learning at home what is right and wrong in the eyes of the Lord.
8. Family bonds are strengthened. Homeschooling actually brings families closer together. Children are given the time and attention that they need to thrive. Parents are able to really know their children. Siblings are kind and helpful to one another. Well....in our home, this may or may not be the case. I don't know that I would have the patience to home school all of my kids. I feel like I am a better parent when they get home from school after having several hours to re-charge away from them. Don't get me wrong....I miss my kids like crazy while they are gone and I love Summer break!!!
9. Better preparation for the real world. Modern schools only appear to be normal because we have been brought up to accept them as the way things are done. They are actually quite unnatural. You will never spend your day with people who are all your same age doing things that have no foreseeable results. I TOTALLY disagree with this point!!! How could a child be better prepared for the real world when they have never really been exposed to it! The real world is not always nice and it is not always pretty. No matter how much we would like to protect our children from all of the bad things in this world, if they ever leave the nest, they WILL encounter things that are not so nice and not so pretty. They will experience temptations, rejection, hate, sexual temptations, and all of the negative things we try so hard to protect them from. I hate it so much but I believe that it is better to expose them gradually than to BOOM throw them into the real world in college and have them experience some form of emotionally breakdown because they had no idea that things were so bad in the real world.
10. The home offers the best environment for spiritual training. Christians know that Jesus calls them "disciples" not "students." This is because disciples observe and model their teacher's behavior. Even if you are not a Christian you still should ask yourself if you really want your child modeling the behavior of their public school teacher. This, again, may be debatable. I was very disenchanted after high school to realize that one of my Christian teachers at private school was, in fact, homosexual.
Melissa, please know that I am not criticizing any of your beliefs. Just offering another viewpoint from someone who is in the same boat...but maybe a little farther down the river. I would love to discuss this with you more. You probably have thought of some things that I have not. And I am a big enough girl to agree to disagree on some of these issues too! Hope to hear from you soon.......
*************************************************************
Just to let you know, these facts are not "my beliefs", just an email I received so I could be informed further. I will say though that I do not believe making the decision to homeschool is "keeping your child in a bubble". There are many outstanding reasons people homeschool & there are many outstanding reasons people choose public schools. Homeschool now-a-days is nowhere near what it used to be - the more I research I am finding homeschool clubs for children, academic classes, field trips, sports, & the list goes on. There is plenty of socialization for homeschooled children which makes me happy, as I too believe this is a very important area. I am fully aware the above issues will need to be addressed with children at some point. I have a major issue with the above issues having to be addressed at age 6. :) Alcohol & drugs frighten me, as well as school violence. Elementary children being caught with guns is unacceptable. Any school age is unacceptable. And even if the violence isn't at the school itself, I've seen 2 different schools (both elementary) on the news just last week - both schools placed in lockdown -because of dangerous situations surrounding the school. Keep in mind too that homeschooling doesn't mean your child will never see the outside world. Naturally, they will live life the same as others...such as going to a friend's house, birthday parties, out to a movie, roller skating, church activities, etc. This topic is discussing homeschooling, not making children hermits. :)
At any rate, the research continues & I appreciate everyone's feedback! Thanks again "L" for sharing! :)
Currently, hubby & I have a little dilemma regarding homeschooling. It isn't that he isn't pro-homeschooling - his main concern is that I have OCD & I am a determined perfectionist. I certainly won't argue with that. :) He thinks I may expect too much. I disagree. I do/will expect what I know my child is capable of, I don't/won't expect above his limits. Still discussing.
Below is the email from "L". Everything in the copper color is from her.
...because I have considered this myself and have two girls in 2nd and 5th grade in public schools myself, I felt compelled to answer each point that you mentioned myself. I agree with some...and some, I just don't see. Take it for what it is worth...I sure don't mean to impose my opinions on you but I have been there and know of which I speak :)
1. Positive academic, social, emotional and spiritual benefits. I both agree and disagree on this point. I do think that children grow socially and emotionally better around children in the same socio economic background as your children. Children do need to be around other children daily in order to be well rounded and more prepared for the real world.
2. A better education for your child. Now that is debatable. In my case....probably not so much :)
3. The schools have become so dangerous that homeschooling is now a lot safer than sending your child into the war zone that public schools have become. Well, in our area of the suburbs, this is not a concern as of yet.
4. Less exposure to drugs and alcohol. Today 31% of high school students "binge drink" at least once a month. There are also a lot of students who abuse inhalants, drugs and medicine. If you keep your child in a bubble, they will be protected from all of these things. However, they will rebel most times when they leave the home. This was true of myself and many of my peers in private school all of our lives. When we left for college, we went buck wild! My husband was in public school and never went wild as he was always exposed to these things and felt it was just the way things were. He was exposed gradually and never actually went wild. (Thankfully, I never got into trouble and eventually returned to the Lord. But I definitely was led astray for awhile.)
5. No emotional bullying such as name-calling, mocking and humiliation. This is what any child that appears "different" is forced to endure. Research shows that those children who undergo this emotional bullying are unable to learn well. True, and I worry a lot about this with my 5th grade daughter. However, I think the benefits of her being in school and exposed the the outside world outweigh any of the risks of this. She will face it sooner or later anyway.
6. Children can be Ritalin-free. Schools are increasingly labeling typical male behavior as ADD/ADHD. This is also true for thin children who like to move around more. I truly can't speak on this issue so I will just keep my mouth shut.
7. Sexual pressure is removed. Research shows that 81% of children between the ages of 12 and 14 believe that they are pressured into having sex too early. School culture and sex-ed classes tend to promote that sex is fine because everyone is doing it. Thus, children are dressing and acting sexy at much younger ages. This is true whether the children attend public or private schools. Again, my kids are too young to speak on this issue. But I do believe that kids need to be around other kids their own age and hopefully, our kids are learning at home what is right and wrong in the eyes of the Lord.
8. Family bonds are strengthened. Homeschooling actually brings families closer together. Children are given the time and attention that they need to thrive. Parents are able to really know their children. Siblings are kind and helpful to one another. Well....in our home, this may or may not be the case. I don't know that I would have the patience to home school all of my kids. I feel like I am a better parent when they get home from school after having several hours to re-charge away from them. Don't get me wrong....I miss my kids like crazy while they are gone and I love Summer break!!!
9. Better preparation for the real world. Modern schools only appear to be normal because we have been brought up to accept them as the way things are done. They are actually quite unnatural. You will never spend your day with people who are all your same age doing things that have no foreseeable results. I TOTALLY disagree with this point!!! How could a child be better prepared for the real world when they have never really been exposed to it! The real world is not always nice and it is not always pretty. No matter how much we would like to protect our children from all of the bad things in this world, if they ever leave the nest, they WILL encounter things that are not so nice and not so pretty. They will experience temptations, rejection, hate, sexual temptations, and all of the negative things we try so hard to protect them from. I hate it so much but I believe that it is better to expose them gradually than to BOOM throw them into the real world in college and have them experience some form of emotionally breakdown because they had no idea that things were so bad in the real world.
10. The home offers the best environment for spiritual training. Christians know that Jesus calls them "disciples" not "students." This is because disciples observe and model their teacher's behavior. Even if you are not a Christian you still should ask yourself if you really want your child modeling the behavior of their public school teacher. This, again, may be debatable. I was very disenchanted after high school to realize that one of my Christian teachers at private school was, in fact, homosexual.
Melissa, please know that I am not criticizing any of your beliefs. Just offering another viewpoint from someone who is in the same boat...but maybe a little farther down the river. I would love to discuss this with you more. You probably have thought of some things that I have not. And I am a big enough girl to agree to disagree on some of these issues too! Hope to hear from you soon.......
*************************************************************
Just to let you know, these facts are not "my beliefs", just an email I received so I could be informed further. I will say though that I do not believe making the decision to homeschool is "keeping your child in a bubble". There are many outstanding reasons people homeschool & there are many outstanding reasons people choose public schools. Homeschool now-a-days is nowhere near what it used to be - the more I research I am finding homeschool clubs for children, academic classes, field trips, sports, & the list goes on. There is plenty of socialization for homeschooled children which makes me happy, as I too believe this is a very important area. I am fully aware the above issues will need to be addressed with children at some point. I have a major issue with the above issues having to be addressed at age 6. :) Alcohol & drugs frighten me, as well as school violence. Elementary children being caught with guns is unacceptable. Any school age is unacceptable. And even if the violence isn't at the school itself, I've seen 2 different schools (both elementary) on the news just last week - both schools placed in lockdown -because of dangerous situations surrounding the school. Keep in mind too that homeschooling doesn't mean your child will never see the outside world. Naturally, they will live life the same as others...such as going to a friend's house, birthday parties, out to a movie, roller skating, church activities, etc. This topic is discussing homeschooling, not making children hermits. :)
At any rate, the research continues & I appreciate everyone's feedback! Thanks again "L" for sharing! :)
Friday, March 14, 2008
Another step closer.
To homeschooling. When Bentley came home today & I was reviewing his schoolwork, a sense of peace came over me regarding homeschool. I really haven't had any peace about doing this thus far. However, looking at his schoolwork & knowing what I know now (he is extremely smart & is breezing thru 1st grade...this has nothing to do with intellect), I think there is a strong possibility it will be in his best interest. Not to mention the fact that he learned this week how to "flip people off" (luckily he didn't "get it" so his teacher as well as myself did not punish him), thinks throwing his food is appropriate behavior & now he's learned to make jokes about little boy parts. :)
Should this happen, I will let him finish out the school year since there's pretty much only 2 months left.
I'll yet again begin my homeschooling research. This time though, I'll be reading more in depth.
Here's a list of homeschooling benefits Rebecca emailed me long ago. Very interesting.
Today there are a lot of parents who are starting to homeschool their young children. There are a lot of people who are wondering just why this is now becoming such a trendy thing to do. Well, it is mainly due to the numerous great benefits that homeschooling has to offer. Some of these many benefits include:
1. Positive academic, social, emotional and spiritual benefits.
2. A better education for your child.
3. The schools have become so dangerous that homeschooling is now a lot safer than sending your child into the war zone that public schools have become.
4. Less exposure to drugs and alcohol. Today 31% of high school students "binge drink" at least once a month. There are also a lot of students who abuse inhalants, drugs and medicine.
5. No emotional bullying such as name-calling, mocking and humiliation. This is what any child that appears "different" is forced to endure. Research shows that those children who undergo this emotional bullying are unable to learn well.
6. Children can be Ritalin-free. Schools are increasingly labeling typical male behavior as ADD/ADHD. This is also true for thin children who like to move around more.
7. Sexual pressure is removed. Research shows that 81% of children between the ages of 12 and 14 believe that they are pressured into having sex too early. School culture and sex-ed classes tend to promote that sex is fine because everyone is doing it. Thus, children are dressing and acting sexy at much younger ages. This is true whether the children attend public or private schools.
8. Family bonds are strengthened. Homeschooling actually brings families closer together. Children are given the time and attention that they need to thrive. Parents are able to really know their children. Siblings are kind and helpful to one another.
9. Better preparation for the real world. Modern schools only appear to be normal because we have been brought up to accept them as the way things are done. They are actually quite unnatural. You will never spend your day with people who are all your same age doing things that have no foreseeable results.
10. The home offers the best environment for spiritual training. Christians know that Jesus calls them "disciples" not "students." This is because disciples observe and model their teacher's behavior. Even if you are not a Christian you still should ask yourself if you really want your child modeling the behavior of their public school teacher.
(I find #10 quite humorous because when hubby & I went to our "mandatory" parents' conference, Bent's teacher had some nice hickies on the front of her neck. Eww. She wore a scarf that day but did an extremely poor job keeping her night before activities covered.)
Should this happen, I will let him finish out the school year since there's pretty much only 2 months left.
I'll yet again begin my homeschooling research. This time though, I'll be reading more in depth.
Here's a list of homeschooling benefits Rebecca emailed me long ago. Very interesting.
Today there are a lot of parents who are starting to homeschool their young children. There are a lot of people who are wondering just why this is now becoming such a trendy thing to do. Well, it is mainly due to the numerous great benefits that homeschooling has to offer. Some of these many benefits include:
1. Positive academic, social, emotional and spiritual benefits.
2. A better education for your child.
3. The schools have become so dangerous that homeschooling is now a lot safer than sending your child into the war zone that public schools have become.
4. Less exposure to drugs and alcohol. Today 31% of high school students "binge drink" at least once a month. There are also a lot of students who abuse inhalants, drugs and medicine.
5. No emotional bullying such as name-calling, mocking and humiliation. This is what any child that appears "different" is forced to endure. Research shows that those children who undergo this emotional bullying are unable to learn well.
6. Children can be Ritalin-free. Schools are increasingly labeling typical male behavior as ADD/ADHD. This is also true for thin children who like to move around more.
7. Sexual pressure is removed. Research shows that 81% of children between the ages of 12 and 14 believe that they are pressured into having sex too early. School culture and sex-ed classes tend to promote that sex is fine because everyone is doing it. Thus, children are dressing and acting sexy at much younger ages. This is true whether the children attend public or private schools.
8. Family bonds are strengthened. Homeschooling actually brings families closer together. Children are given the time and attention that they need to thrive. Parents are able to really know their children. Siblings are kind and helpful to one another.
9. Better preparation for the real world. Modern schools only appear to be normal because we have been brought up to accept them as the way things are done. They are actually quite unnatural. You will never spend your day with people who are all your same age doing things that have no foreseeable results.
10. The home offers the best environment for spiritual training. Christians know that Jesus calls them "disciples" not "students." This is because disciples observe and model their teacher's behavior. Even if you are not a Christian you still should ask yourself if you really want your child modeling the behavior of their public school teacher.
(I find #10 quite humorous because when hubby & I went to our "mandatory" parents' conference, Bent's teacher had some nice hickies on the front of her neck. Eww. She wore a scarf that day but did an extremely poor job keeping her night before activities covered.)
Friday, February 22, 2008
Now it's a maybe.
When I picked Bentley up from school today, Miss B was waiting to talk with me. We did, for about 10 minutes, but it never should have happened in front of Bents. She put me on the spot.
She told me everyone else was going to the swim program (she's assuming...all permission forms have not been turned in yet but there is still plenty of time) - I told her this is a life lesson, Bentley will not always be able to do what his friends do. She agreed. I also told her I'm not the other childrens' mom, & she agreed.
She told me it is very safe, to which I informed her accidents happen. And this was a serious risk. She agreed. She said they all wear lifejackets, but again, those are no guarantees. She agreed.
We talked about the length of the permission form - 6 pages - & I told her there was a reason for that. I explained the last field trip permission form was 1/2 page - I told her there was also a reason that one was so short. She agreed.
She told me this swim program is part of the PE TEKS - so I asked her if Bents doesn't go, would he fail. I then informed her that the permission form stated this program is not mandatory. So...would he fail if he doesn't go? She said no, but all the other children will have the training & he won't. Whoopie.
She stated there are lots of lifeguards to which I told her that I was informed there would be 3-4. She said the children are broken into small groups & there are lots of lifeguards. I explained yes, maybe, but accidents still happen. And we are talking about drowning. She agreed.
She also informed me I was more than welcome to come to the program. According to the permission form, I must sit upstairs in the spectator's area. She said no. I was more than welcome to come & sit on the side of the pool.
She stated the children are in the pool for a short amount of time. And then they leave & go to a park. "They go to a park?" I asked? She replied "oh wait, no I don't think we/they do". Hmm.
I asked her what Bents will do if he doesn't go. She said she really had no idea, because all the children have always gone. She assumed he would go to another class, or I should just keep him home. Alrighty then.
I informed her that Bents has had swimming lessons, he has been raised around pools, & that I have been to the Natatorium & I know exactly how deep & large the pool is. She agreed, but said the children are not allowed in the deep end. Ok, but there's a lot of children there & again, accidents happen. I told her about my dr. that had a nanny & 5 older brothers, yet her daughter drowned. She agreed.
We chatted a while longer & it's as if I almost had her thinking "why does the district allow this?" lol. She actually agreed with all the points I tried to stress.
So now, Bentley has heard that everyone will probably go but him. He is 6. And he is extremely sad. And that makes me sooooooooooooo sad. We are in a very difficult situation. Husband's heartstrings are now tugging on him & he said he will take that particular day off & go to the Natatorium & stay for the entire program. I'm fine with that if that's his choice.
What I don't understand is why are we going thru all of this for a swim program? How is swimming & pool rules detrimental to my child's education? Will his future depend on swimming programs? No. Not at all. Swimming has nothing to do with education. And it is my understanding they repeat this same program in 3rd grade. Oh joy. I can't wait.
So as it stands now we have until 3/7 to make a decision. I absolutely despise this district.
She told me everyone else was going to the swim program (she's assuming...all permission forms have not been turned in yet but there is still plenty of time) - I told her this is a life lesson, Bentley will not always be able to do what his friends do. She agreed. I also told her I'm not the other childrens' mom, & she agreed.
She told me it is very safe, to which I informed her accidents happen. And this was a serious risk. She agreed. She said they all wear lifejackets, but again, those are no guarantees. She agreed.
We talked about the length of the permission form - 6 pages - & I told her there was a reason for that. I explained the last field trip permission form was 1/2 page - I told her there was also a reason that one was so short. She agreed.
She told me this swim program is part of the PE TEKS - so I asked her if Bents doesn't go, would he fail. I then informed her that the permission form stated this program is not mandatory. So...would he fail if he doesn't go? She said no, but all the other children will have the training & he won't. Whoopie.
She stated there are lots of lifeguards to which I told her that I was informed there would be 3-4. She said the children are broken into small groups & there are lots of lifeguards. I explained yes, maybe, but accidents still happen. And we are talking about drowning. She agreed.
She also informed me I was more than welcome to come to the program. According to the permission form, I must sit upstairs in the spectator's area. She said no. I was more than welcome to come & sit on the side of the pool.
She stated the children are in the pool for a short amount of time. And then they leave & go to a park. "They go to a park?" I asked? She replied "oh wait, no I don't think we/they do". Hmm.
I asked her what Bents will do if he doesn't go. She said she really had no idea, because all the children have always gone. She assumed he would go to another class, or I should just keep him home. Alrighty then.
I informed her that Bents has had swimming lessons, he has been raised around pools, & that I have been to the Natatorium & I know exactly how deep & large the pool is. She agreed, but said the children are not allowed in the deep end. Ok, but there's a lot of children there & again, accidents happen. I told her about my dr. that had a nanny & 5 older brothers, yet her daughter drowned. She agreed.
We chatted a while longer & it's as if I almost had her thinking "why does the district allow this?" lol. She actually agreed with all the points I tried to stress.
So now, Bentley has heard that everyone will probably go but him. He is 6. And he is extremely sad. And that makes me sooooooooooooo sad. We are in a very difficult situation. Husband's heartstrings are now tugging on him & he said he will take that particular day off & go to the Natatorium & stay for the entire program. I'm fine with that if that's his choice.
What I don't understand is why are we going thru all of this for a swim program? How is swimming & pool rules detrimental to my child's education? Will his future depend on swimming programs? No. Not at all. Swimming has nothing to do with education. And it is my understanding they repeat this same program in 3rd grade. Oh joy. I can't wait.
So as it stands now we have until 3/7 to make a decision. I absolutely despise this district.
Reality check.
Thank you guys for your comments regarding Bentley & the swimming pool field trip. I appreciate all your help & I thank you for confirming that I'm doing what is best. Especially Christa - because she's a public school teacher! Low & behold you won't believe what message was just left on my machine.
"Hello Mrs. B? This is Bentley's PE teacher. I understand you have some questions regarding the swim program on Friday the 7th. I assure you this is a very, very safe program. There are a lot of lifeguards - about 3 or 4 at a time. We have done this program for a couple of years now, so I can assure you it is safe "thing" (yes, she used the word thing). We wouldn't do it if it weren't safe. The kids wear lifejackets, & you can even come & hang out too. So please give me a call so we can discuss this. This is part of the PE TEKS, so the kids are really suppose to go if they can. My number is (she doesn't know the school's number & had to turn around & ask someone...duh)..."
1.) I don't have any questions. I never said I did. I simply sent an email to his teacher informing her that Bentley will not attend because the risk (of losing his life!!) is too high. Period. Done & over with.
2.) A lot of lifeguards? 3 or 4? That's even scarier as there are several classes going! There would be approximately 60 children for 3 or 4 lifeguards??? Now I know I made the right decision!
3.) The kids really need to go? Then why is there a "permission form" to sign? And why does the form state "mandatory attendance is not required".
4.) I can come & hang out? Then why does it state on the "questions & answers" part of all the forms (6 pages for the particular field trip...what does that tell you) sent home regarding this *safe* field trip that parents are allowed to come, but "asked to sit upstairs in the spectator's area". And that I quote from the forms.
5.) All the kids wear lifejackets? Ok, I just reread the waiver & I obviously misread it the first time. It does state that each child is required to wear a lifejacket unless the waiver is signed (I thought they didn't wear lifejackets unless requested). That's great. That's the way it should be. However, what happens when a group of boys start goofing around (come on, these children are 6 years old!) & one of them takes off their lifejacket? Accidents happen. All the time. Daily. Every single second.
6.) My son knows pool safety. Not only has he taken swimming lessons (which is none of their business) but we've had a pool in our frickin' backyard since he was born. Not just this house, but our previous house too (which is none of their business). As far as I'm concerned, pool safety can be taught in the classroom if they feel it's that pertinent.
7.) And the thing that infuriates me the most is that they are probably discussing all this with Bentley- upsetting him even more!! He is fine with it (for now) & they are probably resurfacing his disappointment! Now that makes me angry.
Well, they have ruffled my feathers again. Why can't they leave well enough alone? I've said this a million times - never could I have dreamed public school would be this difficult. Never could I have imagined it would be like this! And my oldest child has only been in school 2 stinkin' years! 1/2 day last year & now all day this year, & the year isn't even over! The money they (school) demand for this/that/the other, the amount of papers/nonsense that are sent home daily (it's unbelievable actually - some days it's more that 4 days mail that I receive & I receive a lot of mail), do this/do that, fundraiser this/fundraiser that (hubby & I recently had to reimburse some people out of our own pocket for fundraisers paid for but not supplied), pizza night for this/go-eat-here for that, school program & costume needed, sign this/sign that, party here/party there, blah, blah, blah. Holy cow! I've said this too, how am I going to do this with four children?
My stars respect me as a parent - if I choose for my child not to attend, so be it! Be so kind to inform me if he will stay at school or if I need to come & pick him up. Simple. Move on with life, do your job & don't even attempt to do mine! Never in my life will I compromise the safety of my child(ren). And I will not change my mind on the swim program trip.
"Hello Mrs. B? This is Bentley's PE teacher. I understand you have some questions regarding the swim program on Friday the 7th. I assure you this is a very, very safe program. There are a lot of lifeguards - about 3 or 4 at a time. We have done this program for a couple of years now, so I can assure you it is safe "thing" (yes, she used the word thing). We wouldn't do it if it weren't safe. The kids wear lifejackets, & you can even come & hang out too. So please give me a call so we can discuss this. This is part of the PE TEKS, so the kids are really suppose to go if they can. My number is (she doesn't know the school's number & had to turn around & ask someone...duh)..."
1.) I don't have any questions. I never said I did. I simply sent an email to his teacher informing her that Bentley will not attend because the risk (of losing his life!!) is too high. Period. Done & over with.
2.) A lot of lifeguards? 3 or 4? That's even scarier as there are several classes going! There would be approximately 60 children for 3 or 4 lifeguards??? Now I know I made the right decision!
3.) The kids really need to go? Then why is there a "permission form" to sign? And why does the form state "mandatory attendance is not required".
4.) I can come & hang out? Then why does it state on the "questions & answers" part of all the forms (6 pages for the particular field trip...what does that tell you) sent home regarding this *safe* field trip that parents are allowed to come, but "asked to sit upstairs in the spectator's area". And that I quote from the forms.
5.) All the kids wear lifejackets? Ok, I just reread the waiver & I obviously misread it the first time. It does state that each child is required to wear a lifejacket unless the waiver is signed (I thought they didn't wear lifejackets unless requested). That's great. That's the way it should be. However, what happens when a group of boys start goofing around (come on, these children are 6 years old!) & one of them takes off their lifejacket? Accidents happen. All the time. Daily. Every single second.
6.) My son knows pool safety. Not only has he taken swimming lessons (which is none of their business) but we've had a pool in our frickin' backyard since he was born. Not just this house, but our previous house too (which is none of their business). As far as I'm concerned, pool safety can be taught in the classroom if they feel it's that pertinent.
7.) And the thing that infuriates me the most is that they are probably discussing all this with Bentley- upsetting him even more!! He is fine with it (for now) & they are probably resurfacing his disappointment! Now that makes me angry.
Well, they have ruffled my feathers again. Why can't they leave well enough alone? I've said this a million times - never could I have dreamed public school would be this difficult. Never could I have imagined it would be like this! And my oldest child has only been in school 2 stinkin' years! 1/2 day last year & now all day this year, & the year isn't even over! The money they (school) demand for this/that/the other, the amount of papers/nonsense that are sent home daily (it's unbelievable actually - some days it's more that 4 days mail that I receive & I receive a lot of mail), do this/do that, fundraiser this/fundraiser that (hubby & I recently had to reimburse some people out of our own pocket for fundraisers paid for but not supplied), pizza night for this/go-eat-here for that, school program & costume needed, sign this/sign that, party here/party there, blah, blah, blah. Holy cow! I've said this too, how am I going to do this with four children?
My stars respect me as a parent - if I choose for my child not to attend, so be it! Be so kind to inform me if he will stay at school or if I need to come & pick him up. Simple. Move on with life, do your job & don't even attempt to do mine! Never in my life will I compromise the safety of my child(ren). And I will not change my mind on the swim program trip.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
I said no.
Right, wrong or indifferent, I said no.
Bentley has his 2nd field trip next week. Believe it or not, it's to a swimming pool for 5 hours. Supposedly it's about "pool safety"...but...I just can't do it.
Bentley still swims with his life jacket on except here at home. Where I am. Where husband is. Where we are constantly paying attention. He is getting really good at swimming without the jacket, but not good enough yet. Not good enough to be alone with strangers. It only takes such a short amount of time for someone to drown. I know, because my gynocologist lost her daughter she adopted from China to a drowing last year. If it can happen to doctors, it can happen to anyone.
In my heart, I just can't risk it. They are going to the Natatorium & I have been there - the pool is seriously huge & deep. They have swim meets there. Granted there is a shallow end (Bents took swimming lessons there a few years ago) but none the less...I said no.
Accidents happen. And even though I could state on the permission form (which for this particular field trip is 2 pages long - listing doctors, hospitals, etc.) that he must wear a life jacket - to me it's just too big of a risk. He is disappointed & I feel bad for him. Especially if all the kids go. As of today, only 5 children (out of 19) had returned their permission forms. So maybe there are many skeptical parents besides just me.
I could never forgive myself if I let him go & something happened. I'm just trying to follow my heart. I can't live without my Bentley. I don't want to. And I'm not saying something would happen - but it could. Quite honestly, I really can't believe the district would allow such a liability trip.
I hope Bentley forgives me someday. Do you think I made the right decision?
Bentley has his 2nd field trip next week. Believe it or not, it's to a swimming pool for 5 hours. Supposedly it's about "pool safety"...but...I just can't do it.
Bentley still swims with his life jacket on except here at home. Where I am. Where husband is. Where we are constantly paying attention. He is getting really good at swimming without the jacket, but not good enough yet. Not good enough to be alone with strangers. It only takes such a short amount of time for someone to drown. I know, because my gynocologist lost her daughter she adopted from China to a drowing last year. If it can happen to doctors, it can happen to anyone.
In my heart, I just can't risk it. They are going to the Natatorium & I have been there - the pool is seriously huge & deep. They have swim meets there. Granted there is a shallow end (Bents took swimming lessons there a few years ago) but none the less...I said no.
Accidents happen. And even though I could state on the permission form (which for this particular field trip is 2 pages long - listing doctors, hospitals, etc.) that he must wear a life jacket - to me it's just too big of a risk. He is disappointed & I feel bad for him. Especially if all the kids go. As of today, only 5 children (out of 19) had returned their permission forms. So maybe there are many skeptical parents besides just me.
I could never forgive myself if I let him go & something happened. I'm just trying to follow my heart. I can't live without my Bentley. I don't want to. And I'm not saying something would happen - but it could. Quite honestly, I really can't believe the district would allow such a liability trip.
I hope Bentley forgives me someday. Do you think I made the right decision?
Friday, January 4, 2008
Bentley & Public School
I know. Here we go again. Tonight I am very irritated. :(
Bentley is allowed to buy his lunch at school if he will eat at least 3 items on the menu. He is an extremely picky eater, so we take time discussing the menu & we'll then decide if he will take or buy.
Today, there were about 4 things he would eat, so I let him buy. I am very, very aggravated that the district is straying from the menu, serving alternatives instead.
Bentley's 'lunch' is at 10:45 a.m. Is that ridiculous, or what? His lunch is in the morning. Today, he barely ate anything because the menu served was not what the menu stated. My son went all day with pretty much nothing but his breakfast. Yes, I have an issue with that. A huge issue. The thought of him starving all day is too much for mom.
On a side note - I don't know how much longer Bentley will last at public school anyway. As you know, he also has severe insomnia - this is creating exhaustion for him, & behavior issues at school as well as at home. A few months ago, we had moved his mattress into our master closet (because it has a vent & a door) & his sleeping improved. After 3-4 weeks we moved him back upstairs to his room to see if there would be any improvement. This weekend we will be moving him back downstairs to sleep in our bedroom. Whatever it takes to help him, we will do. Short of medicating him. I honestly think all day school is too much for him & I'm afraid his health will take a toll. I can't & won't let that happen. Dealing with him right now is proving more than challenging, but we are trying so hard to remain calm & be understanding. I feel so bad for him. I love my boy so much & I'll do whatever I can to help him. My cute little boy is having such a difficult time right now. :(
Bentley is allowed to buy his lunch at school if he will eat at least 3 items on the menu. He is an extremely picky eater, so we take time discussing the menu & we'll then decide if he will take or buy.
Today, there were about 4 things he would eat, so I let him buy. I am very, very aggravated that the district is straying from the menu, serving alternatives instead.
Bentley's 'lunch' is at 10:45 a.m. Is that ridiculous, or what? His lunch is in the morning. Today, he barely ate anything because the menu served was not what the menu stated. My son went all day with pretty much nothing but his breakfast. Yes, I have an issue with that. A huge issue. The thought of him starving all day is too much for mom.
On a side note - I don't know how much longer Bentley will last at public school anyway. As you know, he also has severe insomnia - this is creating exhaustion for him, & behavior issues at school as well as at home. A few months ago, we had moved his mattress into our master closet (because it has a vent & a door) & his sleeping improved. After 3-4 weeks we moved him back upstairs to his room to see if there would be any improvement. This weekend we will be moving him back downstairs to sleep in our bedroom. Whatever it takes to help him, we will do. Short of medicating him. I honestly think all day school is too much for him & I'm afraid his health will take a toll. I can't & won't let that happen. Dealing with him right now is proving more than challenging, but we are trying so hard to remain calm & be understanding. I feel so bad for him. I love my boy so much & I'll do whatever I can to help him. My cute little boy is having such a difficult time right now. :(
Monday, October 15, 2007
Can you guess?
Today I got my answer. Now let's see if you can guess. :)
To be a substitute teacher within our school district, you must have three completed items. Can you name all three?
Shocking answers revealed later. LOL! :)
*********************************************
1.) Complete an application.
2.) High school diploma.
3.) Background check.
To say I am disturbed would be an understatement.
Here's what happened today.
As I pulled around the school to pick up Bentley, I noticed my friend (Bent's last week sub) loading kids into their car.
As soon as she saw me, she grabbed Bentley & headed my way.
Our informative conversation -
Me - "Hi! Are you working here now, or what?"
Her - "I'm now a substitute."
Me - "Wow! I didn't know you continued your education to sub!"
Her - "I didn't."
Me - "You didn't? Then how are you subbing? Isn't that a requirement?"
Her - "No. I do have some college, but I don't have my degree."
Me - "So, what's necessary to sub?"
Her - " Basically an application, high school diploma & a background check. So far I've subbed Kindergarten, 1st grade & 4th grade. I'm learning as I go."
"Wow! I had no idea! See you later!"
I am teaching my child to trust & obey his peers - now I really need to rethink my plan.
I'm trying not to envision - "Hey Bentley, since I'm (meaning anyone) your teacher for today...your mom said to come on with me & I'll take you home" - or something of the sort. Of course I realize this situation could happen with any teacher. However, if they (ISD) required some college before teaching children...at least we would all know that those particular subs did prove (by furthering their education) that they truly do have an interest for teaching children, & are not just subbing while scouting for "the one". A tad of comfort is better than no comfort at all...
At this point, I really don't know what else to say.
To be a substitute teacher within our school district, you must have three completed items. Can you name all three?
Shocking answers revealed later. LOL! :)
*********************************************
1.) Complete an application.
2.) High school diploma.
3.) Background check.
To say I am disturbed would be an understatement.
Here's what happened today.
As I pulled around the school to pick up Bentley, I noticed my friend (Bent's last week sub) loading kids into their car.
As soon as she saw me, she grabbed Bentley & headed my way.
Our informative conversation -
Me - "Hi! Are you working here now, or what?"
Her - "I'm now a substitute."
Me - "Wow! I didn't know you continued your education to sub!"
Her - "I didn't."
Me - "You didn't? Then how are you subbing? Isn't that a requirement?"
Her - "No. I do have some college, but I don't have my degree."
Me - "So, what's necessary to sub?"
Her - "
"Wow! I had no idea! See you later!"
I am teaching my child to trust & obey his peers - now I really need to rethink my plan.
I'm trying not to envision - "Hey Bentley, since I'm (meaning anyone) your teacher for today...your mom said to come on with me & I'll take you home" - or something of the sort. Of course I realize this situation could happen with any teacher. However, if they (ISD) required some college before teaching children...at least we would all know that those particular subs did prove (by furthering their education) that they truly do have an interest for teaching children, & are not just subbing while scouting for "the one". A tad of comfort is better than no comfort at all...
At this point, I really don't know what else to say.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
